The Different Types of PatentsAN INVENTOR SPENDS A LOT OF TIME DEVELOPING NEW IDEAS AND IS USUALLY NOT AS

DILIGENT REGARDING THE PAPERWORK. THIS IS ONE OF THE MANY WAYS IDEA DESIGN STUDIO CAN HELP INVENTORS SECURE THEIR PRODUCTS. HERE ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF PATENTS

AVAILABLE.

Utility Patent The utility patent is the most common

type of patent, although that doesn't make it the easiest to secure. It has to

do with technology, how something works, mechanical things, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, or software. It could be incredibly basic and simple like a nut or bolt, or it could be much more complex. It can be described using

drawings, tables, a flowchart, software, or even in chemical compositions. The most complicated part about a utility patent is the incredibly detailed and

meticulously written description. A lot of time and effort goes into preparing a

utility patent.

Design Patent The design patent is unique to the United States, other countries call them designs or

design registrations, but do not consider them patents. The ornamental design is what is covered in US design patents.

Specific things like shape, size, and color that make the item unique and distinctive

are what the design patent covers. It's simple to explain the design structure, as it can easily be shown using drawings. Those

would be sufficient for a design patent application. A utility patent would have to accompany it to talk about how the item

works.

Plant Patent   A plant patent is very

rare. They aren't hard to get, but are

extremely specific. For example, breeders of hybrid roses would be

interested in plant patents, but most

people will never have a need for such a

patent.

Provisional Patent The process for securing a patent may be

lengthy, but the provisional patent is much quicker. This provisional patent will protect your idea or design while the real patent is in the works. Inventors need to work fast on the provisional to be protected. Luckily, it is not as complicated or intense as applying for a utility or design patent, so it will not

take as much time. The provisional patent is good for exactly one year. There is no

extension granted, so use that time wisely.