SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/founder-utility-patent-subject

Which patent type covers a new and useful machine or process?

A utility patent covers qualifying useful inventions.

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  1. Design patent
  2. Utility patent ✔
  3. Plant patent

Why: Utility patents cover new and useful processes, machines, manufactured articles and compositions of matter. Design patents cover ornamental designs, and plant patents cover new plant varieties.

Huh, didn't know that: A patent grants a right to exclude others, not automatic permission to practice the invention.

The dad joke
Why did the inventor carry a wrench? The idea needed a little turning.
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References

Answer: Utility patent. Utility patents cover new and useful processes, machines, manufactured articles and compositions of matter. Design patents cover ornamental designs, and plant patents cover new plant varieties.

  1. Patent essentials www.uspto.gov/patents/basics/essentials
    for inventing a new or improved and useful process, machine, article of manufacture, or composition of matter.
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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