RFI Attachment 1 - USPTO and PDDM Workflow.pdf

This image is an Attachment 1 workflow diagram depicting the Patent Application Processing Lifecycle for the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The diagram illustrates a simplified step-by-step process from application filing through final patent issuance, with clear delineation between contractor and USPTO responsibilities. The workflow includes nine sequential stages: Application Filing, Front End Processing (FEP), Patent Examination, PGPub (18 months), Patentability Determination, Allowance Initial & Final Data Capture, Final Patent (Print & eGrant), Assemble Paper Grant, and Mail Paper Grant/Submit eGrant. The legend indicates blue boxes represent contractor activities, while white boxes represent USPTO activities, providing a visual representation of the collaborative process in patent application processing.