Awaiting eic decision什麼意思

"Awaiting EIC Decision" is a term used in the context of the European Patent Office (EPO). It means that the application for a European patent is currently in the hands of the Examining Division (EIC stands for Examining Committee) and the EIC is working on the decision. The EIC is responsible for examining the application and making a decision on whether to grant or refuse the patent.

The process of obtaining a European patent involves several steps, including filing the application, searching for prior art, examination, and, if successful, grant. During the examination phase, the EIC will assess the application to ensure that it meets the requirements for patentability, which include novelty, inventive step, and industrial applicability.

If the EIC decides to grant the patent, the applicant will receive a notification of allowance, and the patent will be published in the European Patent Bulletin. If the EIC decides to refuse the patent, the applicant will receive a written decision setting out the reasons for the refusal. In either case, the applicant may have the opportunity to respond to the EIC's decision and request a review if necessary.