Which claim structure can explicitly state that it builds upon previously patented inventions?

Jepson claims are specifically designed to articulate a relationship with prior art by acknowledging previously patented inventions in their structure. This type of claim is particularly useful for distinguishing the new aspects of an invention from those that are already known.

In a Jepson claim, the preamble explicitly states the prior art and follows with a description of the novel features that improve upon or differ from the previous inventions. This structure helps delineate what is newly invented compared to existing patents, which can be crucial for overcoming rejections during the patent examination process.

While other claim types, such as independent claims, can define novel aspects of an invention, they do not inherently include language that references or builds upon previous inventions in such a formalized manner. This characteristic of Jepson claims makes them distinct and a valuable tool for patent applicants aiming to navigate the complexities of patentability related to prior art. Standard claims, while valid and commonly used, do not offer the same explicit acknowledgment of prior inventions that Jepson claims do.