Patent a Product Name: Everything You Need to Know
How to patent a product a name is a common question that comes up when starting a new business or acquiring a new and innovative product.3 min read
How to patent a product a name is a common question that comes up when starting a new business or acquiring a new and innovative product. When discussing patents, you will often hear the term "intellectual property" that creates a broad reference to ideas and concepts that can be considered to be unique and hold some type of potential value.
The term is used as a way to identify which party or entity has actual ownership over the idea, concept, or invention. When you own intellectual property rights, it means you have the right to:
- Manufacture the product or invention.
- License others to use or manufacture the invention.
- Use a specific distinguishing mark on packaging or in advertising.
- To publish creative and original works of art.
Types of Intellectual Property
There are three primary types of intellectual property that can be protected. These include:
- Patents.
- Trademarks.
- Copyrights.
Patents
Patents are rights to property granted by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. When granted a patent, the holder can prevent others from selling, using, or making a protected invention for a set period of time. If all fees are paid, and paperwork is properly filed patents can be in effect for up to 20 years from the original date of application. Exclusive rights of a design patent can be for up to 14 years. There are three types of patents that can be granted.
- Utility patents — Utility patents will be granted for new, unique inventions for processes, machines, manufactures, a composition of matter, or an improvement to a previous invention.
- Design patent — A design patent can be granted for an original ornamental design of a manufactured product. The protection extends to the appearance of the product instead of the functionality.