In accordance with the established case law, if a method which is not per se "technical" e.g. a mathematical method, is used in a technical process, and this process is carried out on a physical entity by some technical means implementing the method and provides as its result a change in that entity, it contributes to the technical character of the invention as a whole (T 1814/07).

CLR I A 1.4.3 Methods involving technical means

CLR I A 1.4.2 Technical considerations and technical implementations

There might be an invention within the meaning of Art. 52(1) EPC 1973 if, for example, a technical effect was achieved by the invention or if technical considerations were required to carry out the invention (see T 931/95, OJ 2001, 441).

CLR I A 1.4.1.C Some consequences of abandoning the contribution approach

Over a series of decisions the boards of appeal (and in particular Board 3.5.01) explored the consequences of abandoning the contribution approach (see G 3/08 date: 2010-05-12, OJ 2011, 10).

CLR I A 1.4.1.B Abandonment of the "contribution approach"

Subsequent decisions found any comparison with the prior art to be inappropriate for determining whether or not an invention was present.

CLR I A 2.2.1 Discoveries and scientific theories

CLR I A 2.2 Discoveries, scientific theories and mathematical methods

CLR I A 2.1 Introduction

CLR I A 2 Non-inventions under Article 52(2) and (3) EPC

CLR I A 1.4.5 Apparatus constituting a physical entity or concrete product

CLR I A 1.4.4 Methods used in a technical process carried out on a physical entity

CLR I A 1.4.3 Methods involving technical means

CLR I A 1.4.2 Technical considerations and technical implementations

CLR I A 1.4.1.C Some consequences of abandoning the contribution approach

CLR I A 1.4.1.B Abandonment of the "contribution approach"

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