Strategic use of utility models in European countries

Like a granted patent, a utility model is an exclusive right granted for an invention, which allows the right holder to prevent others from commercially using the protected invention.

In its basic definition a utility model is very similar to a patent, except that the requirements for acquiring a utility model are less stringent than for patents. In practice, protection for utility models is often sought for innovations of a rather incremental character, which may not meet the patentability criteria.

However, utility models can also be used in other situations and from a more strategic point of view in order to enhance a company’s IP portfolio. Such situations include: