6.3. Discoveries, scientific theories and mathematical methods

Article 52(2) EPC sets out in paragraphs Art. 52(2)(a) EPC to Art. 52(2)(d) EPC a non-exhaustive list of items which are not regarded as an invention. This includes "Discoveries, scientific theories and mathematical methods" in (a). These activities share the common feature that they do not aim at any direct technical result but are rather of an abstract and intellectual character (see T 22/85, OJ 1990, 12; T 854/90, OJ 1993, 669; T 338/00).