Utility models

Utility models

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At Brevetti Digiovanni Schmiedt in Milan, we can help you protect your creativity through a utility model. What is this, exactly? Pursuant to the Industrial Property Code, 'New inventions which involve an inventive step and are susceptible of industrial application may be protected as utility models if they consist of giving an object a shape, structure, mechanism or layout which increases its utility or improves its conditions of use. In particular, utensils, instruments, tools, apparatus, devices or parts thereof, vessels and other objects which meet the requirements of the preceding paragraph may be protected as utility models'.

Industrial property title

The utility model patent is a right that allows you to protect findings that confer a particular utility or ease of use on a specific product.

When evaluating types of patents, you may find yourself at a crossroads, choosing between the patent for industrial invention (with a duration of twenty years) or the patent for utility model.
Our consultants will help you to understand what a utility model is and find the best solution for your situation.

Duration of the patent

The utility model patent can last 10 years from the application filing date and is subject to the payment of a single maintenance fee at the end of the first five years.

Utility model services

Regarding utility models, we provide the following services:
  • Opinions about the possibility of patenting as a utility model or an industrial invention
  • Technical interview with the inventors and possible on-site inspection
  • Patent search for prior art and surveillance of patents granted or pending
  • Drafting of the patent application including the summary, description, claims and any drawings
  • Preparation and filing of national (Italian) patent applications for utility models
  • Preparation and filing of patent applications for utility models in individual foreign countries
  • Translation of patents and patent documentation
  • Priority claims
  • Application for certified copies of patents and patent applications
  • Party-appointed expert in cases of counterfeiting
  • Technical support for foreign correspondents in patent procedures
  • Surveillance of the expiry of the five-year maintenance fee
  • Transcription of documents concerning patent ownership
  • Counterfeiting or non-counterfeiting opinions (also known as 'freedom to operate analysis' or 'FTO Analysis')
  • Opinions about the conversion of a European patent application into a utility model
  • Assistance in the sale and licensing of utility models (royalties)
  • Consultation to evaluate utility models
  • Technology transfer, i.e. enhancement of the utility model portfolio through the sale or concession of exploitation licenses
What is a utility model? Fill in the form to request expert advice.
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