PATENT
A patent protects new inventions such as products, machines, devices, or processes that are completely novel, useful, and capable of industrial application. It is granted to the inventor as a form of legal protection that encourages innovation and technological advancement.
A patent gives the inventor exclusive rights to make, use, sell, license, or distribute the invention for a limited period of time. In exchange for these exclusive rights, the inventor must fully disclose the details of the invention so that the public can benefit from the knowledge after the protection period ends. Patents in India are governed under the Patents Act, 1970.
DESIGN
Design protection focuses on the visual and aesthetic appearance of an article, including its shape, configuration, pattern, ornamentation, or combination of colors. It does not protect the functional aspect of a product but only its visual appeal.
Under the Design Act, 2000, protection is granted to original and new designs applied to articles such as packaging, bottles, furniture, electronic items, fashion products, and industrial goods. The design must be unique and applied to an article that can exist independently of the design itself. This protection helps businesses safeguard the creative appearance of their products and maintain a competitive advantage in the market.