Protection for technical solutions as a utility model is used in many jurisdictions as a faster and simplified alternative to obtaining a patent for an invention.
A utility model is a technical solution primarily related to devices and structural solutions. It is often used for inventions of practical relevance where a shorter, faster or more accessible registration route is preferred.
While intended to meet the needs of local innovators, the exact scope, requirements and legal effect depend strongly on the jurisdiction.
Utility model protection provides exclusive rights for simple technical solutions and is often used in jurisdictions where rapid and simplified registration procedures are available.
Protection of utility models plays an important role in supporting and accelerating innovations through technical improvements that may not meet the patentability requirements for the inventive step applicable to inventions.
Often referred to as “minor inventions”, utility models in most jurisdictions are subject to the following requirements:
A utility model must not be disclosed in any sources prior to the filing date in most jurisdictions. However, in some countries, the requirement of novelty may be fulfilled only on a local level.
A utility model is considered industrially applicable if it can be used in industry, agriculture, healthcare and other fields. This requirement is not obligatory in all jurisdictions.
The requirement of inventive step is lower than for invention patents and is related to the criterion of non-obviousness. In many jurisdictions, this requirement is absent.
Important: The availability and legal effect of utility model protection depend on national law and may differ significantly between jurisdictions.
Useful where the innovation is commercially important but technically narrower than a major patent-driven invention.
Often relevant for product features, devices, mechanisms and applied technical improvements.
In some jurisdictions, utility models are used where speed of registration matters more than a full patent examination route.
Utility model protection depends strongly on national law. It is available only in selected jurisdictions and requirements may differ significantly.
Belarus · Kazakhstan · Russia · Poland
Some jurisdictions do not provide utility model registration. For example, Lithuania does not have a utility model registration route.
Utility model protection is typically chosen where speed and simplified procedure are more important than the depth of examination.