Design patents
The Difference Between Design and Utility Patents
A " utility patent " protects the way an article is used and works, while a " design patent " protects the way an article looks. Both design and…
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12 articles from the Solidlines archive
Design patents
Improper Subject Matter for Design Patents
A design for an article of manufacture that is dictated primarily by the function of the article lacks ornamentality and is not proper statutory…
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Design patents
Black and White Drawings Are Normally Required
The drawing disclosure is the most important element of the application. Every design patent application must include either a drawing or a…
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Elements of a Design Patent Application
The elements of a design patent application should include the following: (a) Preamble, stating name of the applicant, title of the design, and…
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Definition of a Design
A design consists of the visual ornamental characteristics embodied in, or applied to, an article of manufacture. Since a design is manifested…
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Size of Sheets - Patent Drawing Sheet Size
The size of the sheets shall be A4 (29.7 cm x 21 cm). However, any receiving Office may accept international applications on sheets of other…
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Drawing requirements
Margins - Patent Drawing Sheet Margins
On sheets containing drawings, the surface usable shall not exceed 26.2 cm x 17 cm. The sheets shall not contain frames around the usable or…
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Special Requirements for Patent Drawings
Drawings shall be executed in durable, black, sufficiently dense, and dark, uniformly thick, and well-defined, lines and strokes without…
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Words in Drawings
The drawings shall not contain text matter, except a single word or words, when absolutely indispensable, such as "water," "steam," "open,"…
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Drawing Requirements While Applying New Application
Information on drawing requirements is based substantially on 37 CFR § 1.84. Black and white drawings are normally required. India ink, or its…
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Drawing requirements
Numbering of Sheets of Drawings and Views
The sheets of drawings should be numbered in consecutive Arabic numerals, starting with 1, within the sight. These numbers, if present, must be…
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Drawing requirements
Shading - Applying Appropriate Shading in Patent Drawings
The use of shading in views is encouraged if it aids in understanding the invention and if it does not reduce legibility. Shading is used to…
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From the archive
These articles retain their original publication dates. Filing requirements may have changed; confirm current requirements with the relevant patent office and your qualified adviser.
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