Inventor's Tip of the Day Consider the Power of Design Patents As you develop new products, don’t overlook the importance of design patents. While utility patents protect the way an invention is used and works, design patents protect the ornamental appearance of a product. This can include the shape, surface ornamentation, or overall visual impression of an object. Design patents are particularly valuable in industries where the look and feel of a product are key to its market success, such as consumer electronics, fashion, and home goods. A design patent can provide a competitive edge by preventing others from producing a product with a similar appearance, thereby safeguarding your unique design elements. To obtain a design patent, your design must be novel and not obvious to someone skilled in the art. The application process is typically faster and less expensive than applying for a utility patent, making it an efficient way to add protection to your product portfolio. Pro Tip: Even if you already have a utility patent for your invention, consider applying for a design patent as well to fully protect both the function and appearance of your product. Additional Resources: Learn more about design patents from the USPTO at https://www.uspto.gov/patents/basics/types-patent-applications/design-patent-application-guide. Stay informed, stay protected! #InventorTips #DesignPatents #Innovation #ProductDesign Sources: USPTO General FAQs Check out more of the great inventor resources available to members in the Inventor Smart Community App at https://app.inventorsmart.com/folders/9.

Posted by InventorTips at 2024-08-13 14:00:02 UTC