After reading [What topics can I ask about here?](https://patents.stackexchange.com/help/on-topic) in Patents SE I've decided this question is off-topic there, so I'll ask here.

Has there been an application for a process patent for the *patenting process itself?*

It would probably be beneficial to license it freely, but I'm just curious if such an application has been filed, and if so, if one was granted.