The search is made on the basis of the claims, with due regard to the description and drawings (if any) (Art. 92). The claims determine the extent of the protection which will be conferred by the European patent if granted (Art. 69(1)).[Art. 92; Art. 69(1); Rule 43(6); ]
Source: http://www.epo.org/law-practice/legal-texts/html/guidelines/e/b_iii_3_1.htm
Date retrieved: 17 May 2021