Prototype for Examination in an Electronic Environment In an effort to support the re-engineering of the patent process at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (PTO), the PTO is implementing a limited prototype electronic processing and examination system. Effective immediately, a special box will be established for filing of correspondence related to this prototype. Additionally, for purposes of this prototype only, the requirement of 37 CFR 1.4(d) that correspondence must be signed in permanent ink is waived under 37 CFR 1.183 only to the extent that it will be permissible for a person to place "/s/" on the signature line of an electronic document as the original signature. The requirement of 37 CFR 1.4(d) that the original signature (i.e., "/s/") be personally signed by that person is not waived by this notice. The printing of that electronic document by PTO personnel will result in "/s/" being printed on the signature line of the paper copy which is placed in the official paper file wrapper. Patent process customers whose participation in this prototype is solicited by the PTO will be so notified by separate letter, including detailed instructions regarding prototype participation requirements. Point of Contact for this Notice: Name: Gerald Goldberg Telephone number: (703) 308-5443 Fax number: (703) 305-3588 May 10, 1996 EDWARD R. KAZENSKE Deputy Assistant Commissioner for Patents