11/04/98 15:36 V309 765 5803 DEERE&CO PATENT

From: Forest L. Richard

Sent: Wednesday, November 04, 1998 1:18 PM

To: 'john.gonzales@uspto.gov'

Subject., Patent drawing standardization

My name is Rick Forest and I am a patent draftsman with over 30 years experience. Regarding the standardization of PCT and USPTO drawing requirements, I have the following comments, Consideration should, be given that the standards of the USPTO should not be lowered to that of the PCT. Proper shading of the structure depicted in the patent drawing allows for and accurate interpretation of the structure shown. Is it a hole we're viewing or a sphere? Is it a beam or a slot? Etc, Etc. The PCT does not require such shading of objects, nor is cross-hatching in sectional views a common practice. If the structure in a patent drawing is to be accurately understood, particularly during patent litigation, the USPTO drawing standards lend themselves to the most comprehensive understanding possible. For years, I have reviewed both the Official Gazette and the PCT Gazette for potential competitive patents. I can assure the reader that I have witnessed many drawings published in the PCT Gazette as nothing more than sketches, Imagine trying to understand a cross-sectional view of a planetary transmission without the cross-hatching. Does this mean that the required minimum 1/8 inch for characters and reference numbers will be ignored? This in itself will undoubtedly cause clarity problems for the Official Gazette. Before any decision is final, I urge the reader and any other person(s) interested, to review the PCT Gazette and ask themselves, 'is this an acceptable drawing standard that will lend itself and the intellectual property community to a more thorough understanding of the claimed elements"? Thank you for your input request.

Richard Forest 309 765 4400

Patent dept.

Deere & co

Moline, IL 61255