Design Patents

Design patents protect the unique visual appearance or ornamental design of a product, rather than its functional aspects. They prevent others from making, using, or selling a product that closely resembles the patented design. For example, if a company creates a distinctive shape or surface texture for furniture, they can obtain a design patent to safeguard that specific look. Design patents typically last for 15 years in the U.S., allowing creators to maintain exclusive rights to their innovative designs and encouraging creativity in product development.