Patent and utility model protect technical devices, products and methods; they do not protect the aesthetic aspects of the products. The duration of patent is up to 20 years, utility model can last up to 10 years. The utility model is registered more quickly than the patents are granted. A technical device or product can be protected by both patent and utility model.

The registered design protects the look of the products, the contours, shapes, structures, ornaments or even color of the products. The registered design can last up to 25 years and it does not protect the interior technical essence of the product. However, for example, the shape of the product which is protected by patent and/or utility model can be protected as design.

If someone wants to “patent” the trade name or brand, one needs to register a trademark. The trademark protects a name, a logo or a slogan, or even a sound. The trademark does not protect technical features or methods and processes; for example, it does not protect the recipe for the trademarked product. The owner of the trademark can use the sign ®.