Business owners often ask us whether they need a patent or a design registration for a new product. The honest answer is: it depends on what exactly is new about the product — and sometimes the answer is both.
Patents protect function
A patent protects the technical, functional aspects of an invention — how something works, what problem it solves, and the process or mechanism behind it. If you've developed a new mechanism, process, or technical improvement, a patent is the relevant form of protection.
Design registration protects appearance
A design registration protects the visual appearance of a product — its shape, configuration, pattern, or ornamentation. If what makes your product distinctive is how it looks rather than how it works, a design registration is usually the right fit.
When you might need both
Many products have both a novel mechanism and a distinctive appearance. In such cases, it's common — and often advisable — to seek both a patent and a design registration to cover different aspects of the same product.
Timing matters
Both forms of protection generally require the invention or design to be new. Public disclosure, sale, or publication before filing can affect your ability to register, so it's best to consult early — ideally before you launch or showcase your product publicly.