Legal Definitions - apparatus limitation

Definition: Apparatus limitation refers to the inclusion of a physical structure or device in a method or process claim in a patent. However, it does not carry much weight in establishing the patentability of the claim.

Example: A patent claim for a new method of manufacturing a product may include an apparatus limitation, such as a specific machine used in the process. However, the patentability of the claim would not solely depend on the inclusion of this apparatus limitation.

Explanation: The example illustrates how an apparatus limitation is used in a patent claim. It shows that while it is not objectionable, it is not the only factor that determines the patentability of the claim. Other factors such as novelty, non-obviousness, and usefulness are also considered.