1 Drivers for Implementation of TC 1600 Restriction Practice Action Plan: Public comments from bar groups, and customer partnerships starting before the Unity of Invention Study was launched. Notice: Request for Comments for the Unity of Invention Study: Consensus: need to immediately address inconsistent practices under the current restriction standard. I. Review of TC1600 Restriction Practice Action Plan

2 The action plan includes 5 initiatives: 1.Publish Examples Of Claim Sets 2.Emphasis On Rejoinder Practice 3.Examiner Training On Restriction Practice 4.Enhanced Review Of Restriction Requirements 5.Continuous Assessment I. Review of TC1600 Restriction Practice Action Plan

3 1.Publish Examples Of Claim Sets Provide examples that do not present a serious burden on the Office Provide both applicant’s and examiners with guidance 2.Emphasis On Rejoinder Practice Provide a new Rejoinder paragraph Remind applicants of their options on Rejoinder 3.Examiner Training On Restriction Practice Emphasize proper restriction practices Claim groupings and support/formulation of restriction requirements Provide Art Unit/Workgroup specific examples Publish materials

4 I. Review of TC1600 Restriction Practice Action Plan 4.Enhanced Review Of Restriction Requirements Review Art Units with high number of restrictions and indications of inconsistent requirements Includes reviewing restrictions in 2 nd and subsequent actions 5.Continuous Assessment Collect data from reviews and samplings Survey customers on impact of action plan