by Daniel X. Thomas
The patent relates to a method for oxidising ammonia and a suitable system.
Brief outline of the case
The OD decided to maintain the patent in amended form according to a ne MR filed in opposition. The opponent appealed.
In its communication under Art 15(1) RPBA, the provisional opinion of the board was that claim 21 of the MR was clear,
by Daniel X. Thomas
The patent relates to a diagnostic method for rail vehicles.
Brief outline of the case
The patent was revoked by the OD and the proprietor appealed.
The board confirmed the decision of the OD for the patent as granted and for AR1-3. All other AR were not admitted.
The case is interesting in that the board confirmed the lack of clarity of AR2 decided by the OD.
by Daniel X. Thomas
The patent relates to articles of apparel that provide enhanced body position sensory information to the wearer.
Brief outline of the case
The OD decided maintenance according to the MR=original AR4.
The board decided that claim 1 as maintained lacked N over A9/A9t=JP-A-2004-263362, not mentioned in the ISR established by the EPO.
by Daniel X. Thomas
The patent relates to “Methods and systems for managing content subscription data”.
Brief outline of the case
The opposition was rejected and the opponent appealed.
The board set aside the OD’s decision and considered claim 1 as granted as lacking IS.
AR1-2 were filed for the first time when entering appeal.
by Daniel X. Thomas
On 08.03.2024, the EPO has published a Quality Dashboard.
The results are the following:
1 KPIs Examination
1.a Grants: Incorrect assessment of novelty or inventive step
Result 2023: 7.9%*
Goal 2024: < 5%* Sample size: 1 050 grants
1.b Grants: Findings on added subject-matter
Result 2023: 5%*
Goal 2024: <