By Christopher P. Singer —

EFS-Web 1.2 Release

In an e-Commerce alert notice sent by e-mail on November 8, 2007, the USPTO announced that EFS-Web 1.2 should be released on November 11, 2007.  This update to EFS-Web will allow e-filers to:

• Use the newly available fillable Form SB16 – Provisional Application Cover Sheet;
• View important EFS-Web system messages on the first EFS-Web screen;
• Authorize over and under charges to deposit account when paying by credit card or deposit account;
• View acknowledgement receipts from the last 40 submissions (prior version allowed for prior 20 submissions);
• Receive more helpful warning messages when attaching documents;
• Select only from applicable fees on enhanced fee screen;
• Readily identify the desired filing option from the new login screen design; and
• Select from new Pre-Grant publication document descriptions.
  

PCT Requests in Applications Filed Using EFS-Web that Contain Sequence Listings

The USPTO also provided a link to instructional information relating to filling out the Request (conventional PCT/RO/101 & PCT SAFE/EASY) and Fee Calculation Sheet for international applications containing sequence listings or related tables that are filed with the RO/US via EFS-Web.  These instructions are believed necessary because neither of the Request forms have been modified to accommodate for international applications containing sequence listings that are filed using EFS-Web.  The document provides several examples of RO/101 Requests and PCT SAFE/EASY Requests that reflect the PCT recommendations for applications of certain length, with or without tables containing sequences, etc.

e-Office Action Pilot Program

The USPTO also announced that the e-Office Action Pilot Program has increased the number of notices it provides to participants.  Those participating in the pilot program now receive electronic notifications from the various Technology Centers (Office actions); the Office of Initial Patent Examination; the Office of Petitions; the Office of Patent Publication; the Office of License and Review; and the Board of Patent Appeals.