UTILITY MODELS
What it means
A utility model protects practical innovations, functional improvements, and technical solutions that may not qualify for full patent protection.
Requirements
- Must be new
- Must have practical utility
- Must involve a technical improvement
- Must be capable of industrial application
- Must not conflict with public order or morality
What can be protected
- Improved tools and devices
- Mechanical innovations
- Functional product improvements
- Agricultural tools and equipment
- Simple engineering solutions
- Technical adaptations of existing products
Requirements and Steps
Step 1
Prepare the Innovation Description
Prepare a detailed explanation, drawings, or representations showing the practical improvement or innovation.
Step 2
Submit Application
File a completed utility model application form together with supporting documents and applicant details.
Step 3
Formal Examination
LIPO reviews the application to ensure compliance with filing requirements and documentation standards.
Step 4
Technical Review
The innovation is reviewed to confirm novelty, utility, and industrial applicability.
Step 5
Publication
Accepted applications may be published for public notice and transparency purposes.
Step 6
Registration & Certificate
If approved, the utility model is registered and a certificate of protection is issued.
Important Note: Utility model protection is generally granted for practical and functional innovations with a shorter protection period than patents.