First, the utility model is limited to products with a certain shape, and cannot be a method or product without a fixed shape. An invention patent can be an improvement of a product or method;
Second, the utility model is not very creative, but it is practical, and the invention patent lies in creativity.
Thirdly, in view of the low requirement of utility model for creativity, people generally call it small invention and small creation. However, it should be understood that for highly creative inventions, as long as they are the protected objects of utility models, they can also apply for utility model patents.
Extended data:
Patent terminology
The term of patent right for utility model is 10 year, counting from the date of application. The termination of patent rights can be divided into:
(1) Expiration: the patent right of utility model or design shall be maintained for 10 years from the date of application, and shall be terminated according to law;
(2) Termination without payment: If the patentee fails to pay the annual fee and overdue fine in full as required, the patent right shall be terminated from the expiration date of the previous year.
Baidu encyclopedia-utility model patent