Detailed explanation of the US design patent application process and required materials

The process of applying for a design patent in the United States is relatively complex and rigorous, takes a long time from filing the application to final authorization, and is different from the application procedures in many other countries. This article aims to explain the process in detail and list the various materials required to apply.

Application process

There are two main ways to apply for a U.S. design patent: normal application and accelerated examination.

Normal application

1. Entrust application data collection: Normally, the data collection work will be completed and submitted within 7 working days.
2. Acceptance Notice: It takes approximately 15 days to receive the acceptance notice.
3. Patent review period: The entire review process is expected to take 12 to 16 months.
4. Authorization: The total time from application to obtaining the official authorization certificate is about one to one and a half years.

Accelerate review channels

1. Commissioned application materials preparation: Likewise, all necessary documents can be prepared and submitted within one week.
2. Notification of Acceptance: Applicants through this channel can receive a notification of acceptance from the lawyer within 15 calendar days.
3. Patent review period: With this option selected, the patent review time is reduced to approximately 6 months.
4. Authorization: The feedback on the results of the accelerated review is also in about 6 months.

Information required

1. Applicant information: Whether you are an individual or a company, you are required to provide relevant supporting documents, such as identity document, nationality certificate, residential address or company registration certificate.
2. Design patent title: Clearly indicate the name of the design project being applied for.
3. Appearance design description and pictures: Include views of the product from six different directions and a three-dimensional diagram (3D diagram in STP format). In addition, a brief description of each view and a description that does not include views are required. reason.
4. Patent documents from other countries: If the design has obtained patent protection in other countries, the corresponding international patent documents should be submitted.

In summary, the question “How to apply for a US design patent?” covers a detailed introduction to the steps and a list of necessary materials. For cross-border e-commerce sellers who are not familiar with the specific operating procedures, using the accelerated review channel can not only quickly complete the application submission, but also obtain the patent certificate in a shorter period of time. Ensuring that all application materials are complete and accurate will be the key to successfully completing the entire application process.