The typeface on many of these forms is too small. See, e.g., PTO/SB/69 which is barely readable. PTO should work to increase the layout of these forms so that the point size is, at a minimum 10 point type. This may mean some of the forms become two-sided. In future justification statements, PTO should include a brief discussion of current or future plans for electronic filing.
Inventory as of this Action
Requested
Previously Approved
09/30/2000
09/30/2000
10/31/1999
1,690,690
0
1,783,400
647,844
0
650,720
66,700,220,000
0
66,700,220,000
During the pendency of a patent application or the period of enforceability of a patent, situations arise that require collection of information for the PTO to further process the patented file or the patent application. These situations involve responses filed by applicants to office actions and may include information disclosures, requests for extensions of time, establishing small entity status, abandonment and revival of abandoned applications, disclaimers, appeals, and certificates of mailing.
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that the collection of information encompassed by this request complies with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR 1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding the proposed collection of information, that the certification covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.
Patent Processing (Updating)