The short answer
A divisional application splits one patent application that covers more than one invention into separate applications. Under Section 14 of the Bangladesh Patent Act, 2023 you may file up to 3 divisionals within 3 years of the filing date of the first application. Each keeps the parent's priority date.
Section 14 rules at a glance
| Point | Rule |
|---|---|
| Who may file | The applicant of the original patent |
| Deadline | Within 3 years of the original filing date (the Act does not state a grant cut-off) |
| Number | No more than three from one original |
| Content | Only matter already in the original complete specification |
| Claims | Cannot repeat claims already in the parent |
| Priority date | Same as the parent, if the subject matter was disclosed there |
| Examination | Requested and fees paid separately for each |
When to use one
A wearable device includes a heart monitor and a fall-detection system. The DPDT may treat them as two inventions. File the fall-detection technology as a divisional and keep the heart monitor in the parent. Both are examined and protected on their own.
Why it matters. A divisional avoids refusal for lack of unity and lets you protect each invention separately. Decide early whether your application covers one invention or several.
Divisional patent questions
Can I add new matter to a divisional?
No. It must rest on the original complete specification.
Does a divisional get the parent's filing date?
Yes, for priority, if the matter was disclosed in the parent.
Is it examined together with the parent?
No. Each is examined separately and you must request examination for each.
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