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[patentwind]

hi
when drafting, sometimes we will use "a plurality of ", but sometimes multiple may be preferred. they are similar, but what the exactly difference? in what situation, a plurality of and multiple cannot be insteaded each other?
for example, element A has a plurality of element Bs, or element A has multiple element Bs? which is prefer?
thanks

[JimIvey]

"Plurality" means "two or more" -- period.  Don't use "plurality" -- it doesn't gain anything in terms of patent coverage and is a pain to read.  Why do so many patent practitioners feel the need to write like Charles Dickens?!  Heretofore, ...  Hitherto, ....  Jeez!  I have to read that crud!

Just write "element A has two or more element Bs".  That's preferred (by me, at least).

Oh, and while we're on this topic, don't use "said".  Use "the".  For example, later in the same or a dependent claim, write "wherein each of the element Bs ..."  Do not use "said element Bs".  "Said" and "the" are synonymous.  "The" is currently used in idiomatic American English.  "Said" is not.

Hitherto, I have chanced to witness many uses of said plurality of non-idiomatic expressions in a multitude of recently crafted patent applications.  Heretofore, said plurality of arcane expressions have caused me substantial consternation.

Regards.