In some European countries, it is possible to register a utility model. Creations that are new and differ essentially from the known art can be registered as utility models.
The registration process for a utility model is much speedier than the patenting process. Thus, a utility model registration may be used as a means to stop an infringer long before a patent is granted or in order to establish an early priority date. A utility model will also give you an exclusive right to a creation, if a patent cannot be obtained.
Other instances where a utility model may be relevant is if you only seek protection in countries that have utility model systems, or if your creation or invention is only financially interesting for a short period of time e.g. due to fast technological advances.
We can help you establish utility model rights in the European countries that offer this type of protection, namely Austria, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Hungary, Poland, Portugal, Russia and Spain.
Contact our qualified patent attorneys for more information on utility models or fill out this contact form with your enquiry and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
