Legal Definitions - second-tier patent

A second-tier patent, also known as a utility model, is a type of patent registration system that grants patent-like rights in some countries. Unlike regular patents, utility models have a shorter term and require little or no search. They are only available for machines and not for chemicals.

For example, in Japan and many European countries like Germany and France, inventors can apply for a utility model patent to protect their inventions. These patents are often used for small inventions or improvements to existing products.

One advantage of a utility model is that it can be granted more quickly than a regular patent, which can take several years to obtain. However, the protection offered by a utility model may not be as strong as a regular patent, and it may be easier for competitors to challenge the validity of the patent.