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Simple English definitions for legal terms
all-limitations rule
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A quick definition of all-limitations rule:
The all-limitations rule is a principle in patent law that states that every part of a claim must be present in a product or invention for it to be considered an infringement. This rule is used to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents and ensure that only the specific elements of a claim are protected by a patent. Essentially, if a product or invention does not include every element of a claim, it cannot be considered an infringement of that patent.
A more thorough explanation:
Definition: The all-limitations rule is a doctrine in patent law that requires each element of a claim to be present in an allegedly infringing device in order to establish literal infringement. This rule limits the doctrine of equivalents and prevents its application to an entire claim, rather than the claim's constituent elements.
Examples: If a patent claim includes the elements A, B, and C, then an allegedly infringing device must include all three elements to be considered infringing. If the device only includes elements A and B, but not C, then it does not infringe on the patent claim under the all-limitations rule.
Explanation: The all-limitations rule ensures that patent claims are interpreted narrowly and that each element of the claim is essential to the invention. This prevents competitors from making minor changes to the invention and avoiding infringement by relying on the doctrine of equivalents. The examples illustrate how the rule applies in practice by requiring all elements of a claim to be present for infringement to occur.