What is the difference between a utility model and a utility patent?
Foreign utility patents are expensive. To obtain a foreign utility patent, you normally go through a long examination process with the foreign patent office. All the back-and-forth rejections and responses add up. If there was only a way to skip the substantive examination. That’s the beauty of a utility model. A utility model is a type of instant intellectual property right that is somewhat similar to a utility patent.
While unavailable in the US, this alternative utility patent right is offered in many countries outside the US. This option would only help IP owners concerned about foreign patent protection. By applying for a utility model, the applicant gets automatic utility patent protection in the pertinent foreign country without examination. Depending upon each foreign country’s IP laws, the utility model will typically be examined and challenged only if it is enforced against an accused infringer.
Utility patents in the US are granted after a thorough examination. There are no automatic grants of patent rights. Even a provisional patent application does not grant patent rights, but only a filing date and patent pending status. Given that utility models in foreign countries are typically not examined, they will be significantly less expensive to obtain than utility patents.
Should you consider filing both a utility model and a utility patent application (regular invention patent)?
One IP strategy to gain foreign rights is the dual approach of filing both a utility model and a utility patent application concurrently if the particular foreign country allows for dual filings. Filing both simultaneously gives the applicant instant patent rights while the utility application undergoes substantive examination. If and when the utility patent (aka “regular invention patent” in certain countries) is granted, the utility model will typically be abandoned.
In most countries, a utility model cannot coexist with a regular invention patent so the applicant must choose one. Certain countries, such as Taiwan, will require an applicant choosing utility patent protection to end the utility model on the publication date of the invention patent.
Certain inventions that are more difficult to patent in the US may be suitable for utility models in foreign countries. For example, this option may make sense for simpler mechanical devices that would face challenging obstacles at the USPTO. Having instant patent protection in a foreign country where the product will be manufactured may be a huge benefit, even as the utility application process continues an uncertain journey in the US.
How long does a utility model last?
The term depends upon the country, ranging from six to ten years. This is substantially shorter than the utility patent term which is generally 20 years from the priority date. Many countries may require a renewal fee to be paid periodically to maintain protection.
Which countries offer utility models?
This is a helpful list of countries that offer utility models. IP laws, treaties and regulations of each country may be researched here. Each country has its own requirements, duration, excluded subject matter and priority claim rules.
What types of inventions are eligible?
Each country will have its own rules that may exclude certain types of inventions from being granted utility model protection. Biotech inventions and methods of manufacture are typically excluded. Business processes and computer programs are excluded in certain countries.
Need to file a foreign patent?
Contact US patent attorney Vic Lin by email or call (949) 223-9623 to find out how we can help you obtain foreign patent protection.
