Guide to Patent Drawings for Beginners
As part of a UK Patent application, you need to describe one or more practical embodiments of your invention. This includes drawings to support the full disclosure of your invention. This article briefly explains why patent drawings enhance your application and outlines what the UK Intellectual Property Office (UKIPO) will seek when you submit your drawings.
Your patent application should include a set of good-quality drawings which illustrate all aspects of your invention. The drawings can also assist you in eliminating any uncertainty that may arise from just reading the claims, and they are an excellent way to strengthen your overall application. People often include multiple drawings depicting the invention from various angles or featuring cross-sectional perspectives.
It is important to note that, in the eyes of the UKIPO, “good quality” does not mean detailed and life-like. On the contrary, the UKIPO prefers simple, black-and-white line drawings and schematics.
What are the UKIPO requirements?
The UKIPO has quite specific requirements concerning patent drawings, and it is crucial to meet these requirements to ensure that the drawings properly support your application. It is not uncommon for the UKIPO to reject drawings that do not meet the standards.
We list below some of the key points to follow:
- Include a selection of high-quality drawings that depict your invention. It should include multiple views and angles, e.g. top, front, and side views. You might also have close-up views of any detailed sections.
- Drawings must be clear and legible, using solid and consistently thick lines. It should print correctly. Using dashed or broken lines to show hidden or non-visible parts would be best.
- Use A4 size paper, ideally portrait orientation, with a 2.5cm top margin and 2cm side margins.
- It would be best if you labelled your drawings with numbers corresponding to the correct parts of the written description of your invention.
- Avoid using a lot of shading or hatching unless necessary. You want your drawings to appear as neat and uncluttered as possible.
- Ensure that the drawings align with your written description and are consistent and accurate throughout.
Why you should consult an IP Professional?
We fully appreciate that some clients may wish to submit their drawings. However, we advise you to seek the advice of an IP professional when preparing your overall patent application. They will advise you on all aspects of your application, including whether your patent drawings are likely to be accepted. If you are providing your drawings, it can be helpful to offer them in an easily editable format. This can help your patent attorney to easily make any amendments that appear necessary to meet formal requirements. Creating drawings that meet the requirements of the UKIPO can be a crucial part of a successful patent application. Therefore, it is advisable to have your patent drawings done by a specialist service.
Pure Ideas will gladly help with advice on patent drawings or any other part of the patent application process. If you would like to speak to us, please get in touch.
