“Adapted to,” “Adapted for,”
“Wherein,” and “Whereby” Clauses
Claim scope is not limited by claim language that suggests or makes optional but does not require steps to be performed, or by claim language that does not limit a claim to a particular structure. However, examples of claim language, although not exhaustive, that may raise a question as to the limiting effect of the language in a claim are:
(A) “adapted to” or “adapted for” clauses;
(B) “wherein” clauses; and
(C) “whereby” clauses.
The determination of whether each of these clauses is a limitation in a claim depends on the specific facts of the case.
MANUAL OF PATENT EXAMINING PROCEDURE
2111.04 “Adapted to,” “Adapted for,”
“Wherein,” and “Whereby” Clauses[R-07.2015]