Mathematical Concepts Among Abstract Ideas Excepted From Patents, PTO Says

Mathematical concepts, mental processes and “certain methods of organizing human activity” qualify as abstract ideas excepted from patent eligibility, the Patent and Trademark Office said Friday. That’s one of the key changes the PTO included in guidance documents reflecting the Alice and Mayo Supreme Court decisions (see 1804180073). The guidance, in effect Monday, is open to comment until March 8. A second guidance document concerns computer-implemented inventions: “The guidance describes proper application of means-plus-function principles under § 112(f), definiteness under § 112(b), and written description and enablement under § 112(a).”