35 U.S.C. 171   Patents for designs.

  • (a) IN GENERAL.—Whoever invents any new, original, and ornamental design for an article of manufacture may obtain a patent therefor, subject to the conditions and requirements of this title.
  • (b) APPLICABILITY OF THIS TITLE.—The provisions of this title relating to patents for inventions shall apply to patents for designs, except as otherwise provided.
  • (c) FILING DATE.—The filing date of an application for patent for design shall be the date on which the specification as prescribed by section 112  and any required drawings are filed.

(Amended Dec. 18, 2012, Public Law 112-211, sec. 202(a), 126 Stat. 1535.)