Legal Definitions - claim limitation

Definition: In a patent application, a claim limitation is a statement that describes how a specific function is performed without mentioning the materials, structure, or actions that support that function. Claim limitations help to define the invention by setting it apart from prior art.

Example: Let's say someone invents a new type of bicycle wheel that is more durable than any other wheel on the market. A claim limitation for this invention might be "a bicycle wheel that uses a unique spoke design to increase durability." This statement describes how the wheel functions without going into detail about the specific materials or structure used to achieve that function.

Explanation: Claim limitations are important in patent applications because they help to protect the inventor's intellectual property. By describing the function of the invention without revealing all of the details, the inventor can prevent others from copying their idea while still being able to patent it. In the example above, the claim limitation helps to distinguish the new bicycle wheel from prior art by highlighting its unique spoke design.