WHIPgroup Uses After Final Pilot Program to Obtain Patent Allowance

August, 23rd, 2019

Categories: Blog, News Tags: patent, USPTO, whipgroup

The claimed invention relates to a device for detecting signal pulses for a particle counter. The application received a Final Office Action rejecting the claims. In response, WHIPgroup attorneys submitted arguments with a request to participate in the After Final Consideration Pilot (AFCP) Program. The AFCP gives an examiner additional time to consider arguments and requires detailed reasoning if maintaining any rejections. The arguments were persuasive and the USPTO issued a Notice of Allowance with its AFCP Decision, avoiding the need for an Appeal or Request for Continued Examination (RCE).