Is it possible to submit informal comments on earlier search results? What is PCT Direct?
On 1 November 2014, the EPO launched the PCT Direct service for international applications filed with the EPO as receiving Office. On 1 July 2015, this service was extended to all the other receiving Offices. Under PCT Direct, an applicant filing an international application with any receiving Office and claiming priority from an earlier application already searched by the EPO may, together with the request form, file a letter containing informal comments aimed at overcoming objections raised in the search opinion established by the EPO for the priority application (see point 3.2.020). The EPO as ISA will take such informal comments into account when establishing the ISR and WO-ISA.
Source: http://www.epo.org/applying/international/guide-for-applicants/html/e/ga_c2_17.html
Date retrieved: 17 May 2021