Within PatSnap, it is possible to search for or filter your patent results based on their specific type. The 4 patent types we utilize within PatSnap are as follows:
- Patents: This refers to the final granted/issued patent within an overall patent application. For a few jurisdictions, they only have one document for the overall application, so these documents will be under "Patents". "Patents" only include invention (utility in the US) patents and not designs.
- Applications: This refers to the original filing document within an overall patent application. If the application is not ultimately granted, then this will remain as the only document within the application.
- Utility Models: These have a shorter time span but are also easier to get granted then a regular patent application. You can find more details about them in the following article: What Is A Utility Model?
- Design: This refers to design patents and registered designs. The naming convention for them differs based on jurisdiction. These protect the ornamentation and shape of an article (e.g. appearance, physical shape and decoration). You can find more details about them in the following article: What Is A Design Patent?