Designing a new product is complex and expensive too. In some cases, the idea might have taken years as you researched it before actualizing it. So, when you finally make a breakthrough of creating the product through your manufacturing unit, it is important to protect it using a patent. In this post, we will look at the three main types of patents that you should consider for your products.
Utility Patents
If you make a useful invention which is unique, you should consider protecting it with a utility patent. Utility patents can be divided into five categories:
- A process.
- A machine.
- A manufacture.
- A composition of matter.
- An improvement of a current idea.
In many cases, inventions fall under several categories. Take the example of new software; you can consider it a process and a machine. But regardless of the categories in which it falls in, you are only allowed to get one utility patent for it. Once you get the patent, it allows you to stop others from making, using or selling the invention. It is only you who can do that!
Design Patent
When you create an original design that ornaments an already existing device, it might qualify for a design patent. These patents are less common when compared to utility patents because most people prefer working with their own devices. For example, you can get a design patent for a computer icon. To get a design patent, your invention has to be ornamental or aesthetic.
Plant Patents
This is one of the least applied patents today. It is granted for any unique, non-obvious and asexually reproducible plants. In most cases, these patents are granted to entities in agriculture and science niches. Note that the plant patents do not include genetically modified organisms.
When to File a Patent
Using patents is only one method of protecting your invention. So, you should consider filing for a patent once you have created the final product. This means that you have all the details of the product, such as dimensions, chemical composition, and how it works. Then, select the best patent for protecting the invention. For example, you can opt for utility patent to protect a machine or design patent for protecting your new icons.
If you are in manufacturing as outlined here, it is important to ensue you protect your inventions with the right patents. It gives you the monopoly to use it and even enter into business arrangements with others who might be interested in it.