Objective Indicia

Subscribe to Objective Indicia via RSS

Unpacking the Importance of the Claimed Invention from Other Commercial Components

Objective indicia of non-obviousness, such as commercial success and industry praise, can be probative evidence of non-obviousness. In order for the objective evidence of secondary considerations to be afforded substantial weight, however, the patentee must establish a nexus between the evidence and the merits of the claimed invention.  A presumption of nexus can be established if the patentee shows that the evidence is tied to a specific product that embodies the claimed invention.

Of course, the challenger can rebut the presumption of nexus by showing that the commercial success or industry praise is due to features other than the claimed invention. But, this rebuttal may not be so straightforward where the claimed invention is a tool of a multi-tool package.  In this instance, the inventive component must be weighed, regardless of the popularity/success of other components. 
Continue Reading PTAB Faulted on Objective Indicia Analysis

New Precedent/Informative Decisions Demonstrate Nexus Considerations

Yesterday, the Patent Trial & Appeal Board (PTAB) designated one new precedential case, and two informative decisions directed to the application of objective indicia to obviousness determinations.  Collectively, the decisions outline the necessary degree of nexus between subject claims and submitted objective indicia.
Continue Reading PTAB Highlights Successful Application of Objective Indicia

Unrebutted Secondary Indicia Considered in Assessing Becton-Dickinson Factors

The submission of so-called “objective indicia of non-obviousness” at the PTAB is rarely effective, especially in the predictable arts (i.e., mechanical/electrical).  This is because the most common form of such evidence, “commercial success” is often difficult to tie to any particular claim feature (unlike drug formulations, for example).  That said, as a Graham Factor that is assessed in an obviousness determination, the failure to address previously established indicia could prove fatal to your petition. 
Continue Reading PTAB Denies Petition Overlooking Objective Indicia of Non-Obviousness