In the global patent system, the understanding of patent types is basically divided into two groups. Most pro-British and American Western countries, mainly the United Kingdom and the United States, do not have the concept of utility models in the setting up of the patent system. In addition, other countries have set up this type of utility model.
- Utility model patents
The concept of utility model was first proposed by Japan in 1905. During the 20 years from 1885 to 1905, when its patent system was born, Japan, like the British and American countries, did not establish this type of utility model patent. However, after the implementation of the patent system for 20 years, out of the need to protect the country's own unique "little inventions", such a "little invention" that is between an invention patent and a design patent was conceived. It is conceivable that Japan, which has just experienced the Meiji Restoration, has just opened its door to the outside world. Japan's industrial technology development level and patent review level are far behind the Western countries that experienced the Industrial Revolution at that time. Out of the need to protect their own inventions and creations, Considering this, utility model patents came into being.
Taking Japan as an example, most countries in the world that have set up utility model patents unanimously define utility models as: "small inventions" and "small patents", that is, inventions that are not very technical or creative, and most countries As for the examination standards for utility model patents, many countries adopt a registration system, and a certificate is issued upon application. However, many countries also require substantive examination for utility model and even design patents.
For your convenience, today’s page has listed the patent types in 30 countries.
