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How Patent Illustrators Make 7 Figures!

Updated: Jan 26, 2023



Design Patent Drawings

Design patents protect the ornamental design of an object, rather than its functional features.

In order to be granted a design patent, an applicant must submit drawings of their design that clearly and fully depict the invention. These drawings, known as "figures," must comply with specific guidelines set forth by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).


What are the Seven Types of Figures?

There are seven types of figures that may be included in a design patent application:


1. Front view

This figure shows the front of the design as it would appear in normal use.


2. Rear view

This figure shows the back of the design as it would appear in normal use.

May be disregarded if the Front side view is a mirror image.


3. Right side view

This figure shows the right side of the design as it would appear in normal use.


4. Left side view

This figure shows the left side of the design as it would appear in normal use.

May be disregarded if the Right side view is a mirror image.


5. Top view

This figure shows the top of the design as it would appear in normal use.


6. Bottom view

This figure shows the bottom of the design as it would appear in normal use.

May be disregarded if the Top side view is a mirror image.


7. Isometric view

This is an optional view, which shows the design in an isometric projection, which is a method of representing a three-dimensional object in two dimensions.


What are the guidelines for figures?

It is important to note that all figures must be to scale and in black and white. Additionally, the figures must be clear and highly detailed, as they are used by the USPTO to determine whether the design is novel and non-obvious. If the figures are not clear or detailed enough, the application may be rejected.


Overall, design patents protect the ornamental design of an object, and the key to a successful application is the submission of clear, highly detailed figures that comply with the guidelines set forth by the USPTO. The seven types of figures that may be included in a design patent application are front view, rear view, right side view, left side view, top view, bottom view and isometric view.


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