Utility Models

The Utility Model patent offers a technical solution with less creative effectiveness than the Industrial Invention patent and can derive from the latter if it does not fully meet the level requirement inventive.

The duration

The Utility Model patent has, compared to the Industrial Invention patent, a shorter validity period up to a maximum of 10 years.

Foreign utility model coverage

Many foreign states recognize and protect utility models and the definitions of this institution may, however, vary from country to country.