It protects new and inventive solutions to technical problems. A utility model can, for example, cover a specific device, a tool or a process. (No protection for a process in Germany).

The protection of a utility model grants the owner the exclusive right to commercially utilise the protected invention and to prohibit third parties from using, manufacturing, offering or placing the invention on the market without the owner's consent.

A utility model grants the owner a limited term of protection, which is normally 10 years from the filing date.

Utility models bare some differences compared to patents. Utility models generally offer a shorter term of protection. In addition, utility models are usually not examined for novelty and inventiveness before they are granted. This means that the applicant only has to fulfil the formal requirements in order to obtain a utility model. It should be noted that some states do not allow procedural claims for utility models and others do not offer them as property rights.

PPR AG knows the exact rules and regulations for utility models according to national laws and regulations and offers reliable advice, drafting, filing and defence of utility models. Together with international partners we also offer worldwide nullity proceedings.