Coming up with an invention or improving an existing one is an important time in an inventor’s life. Once this is done, some inventors choose to pursue a patent for the invention. This gives them rights to the invention and prevents others from copying it.
One of the first things that an inventor needs to do is determine what type of patent they need to obtain. There are three types of patents. One of these is reserved for plants and the other two are reserved for inventions. These are the utility patent and the design patent.
What is the design patent?
A design patent focuses on how something looks instead of how it functions. This can cover the ornamental features of products that include the surface design, shape, and style. Companies often rely on brand recognition to sell their distinctive products, and a design patent makes that possible. It’s important to note the design patents don’t protect anything other than the aesthetics.
What is the utility patent?
Utility patents cover how an invention works. These are the ones that protect processes, methods and systems that provide functional improvements. They can include a medical device with unique mechanics or a new type of software algorithm. Utility patents offer broader protection than design patents and are often more valuable.
Having a proper patents can help to protect a business. Getting everything in order to file a patent is not simple, so it’s crucial to have experienced legal guidance. This can help you determine what type of patent is best for your business’ needs, and provide support throughout the entire patent process.
