NPL stands for Non-Patent Literature. It refers to documents and publications that are not patents or published patent applications, but are cited as references during patent prosecution. Examples of NPL include magazine articles, doctoral theses, research papers, and technical journals that are relevant to a claimed invention.
NPL is commonly used in patent law, particularly during the patent application process. It serves as supporting evidence that can establish the novelty or non-obviousness of an invention. Legal practitioners may reference NPL when preparing patent applications or responding to office actions from patent offices. Users can manage aspects of this process using legal templates from US Legal Forms, which are designed by experienced attorneys.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
For instance, a researcher may cite a technical journal article that discusses a similar technology when applying for a patent on a new invention. This helps to demonstrate the innovation's uniqueness. (hypothetical example)
| Term | Definition | Key Differences |
|---|---|---|
| NPL | Non-Patent Literature | Documents not related to patents but relevant to patent claims. |
| Patent | A legal right granted for an invention. | Patents are official documents that provide exclusive rights, while NPL is not. |
| Prior Art | Any evidence that your invention is already known. | NPL can be part of prior art but is not limited to it. |
If you are preparing a patent application, consider gathering relevant NPL to support your claims. You can use US Legal Forms to find templates that can help you draft your application. If your situation is complex, it may be wise to consult a legal professional for tailored advice.
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Documents such as articles, theses, and technical reports can qualify as Non-Patent Literature.