The patent for appearance has expired for one year. What should I do now?

The literal meaning of patent is exclusive rights and interests. In the modern sense, the concept of patent generally refers to a document issued by a government agency or a regional organization according to the application, which records the content of invention and creation and has a legal status in a certain period of time.

Patents are generally divided into three types. One is invention. This is the most typical patent. The second is the new utility patent. It is generally called short-term patent abroad. It is a new product that improves and innovates the existing technology or product. He is a concrete rather than abstract concept. The third is the design patent. It is also the most common patent we see.

In China, China National Intellectual Property Administration is the only institution that manages patent affairs at home and abroad. Of course, it also includes branches in various provinces and cities. The meaning of patent includes three aspects: first, patent right. The rights and interests enjoyed by the patentee alone are exclusive and may not be used by others without the permission of the patentee. The second is patented technology. It is an invention and creation technology protected by national laws. Of course, it also includes patent documents, which are documents that specifically record these inventions and technologies. The third is the patent certificate. The ownership of the patent will be finally reflected by the patent certificate issued by the national authority. If the application is not approved and no certificate is issued, then the patentee cannot enjoy the patent according to law. Only when the national authority has issued a patent certificate can the patent right take effect.

The purpose of the patent system is to protect the basic rights and interests of patent inventors from infringement by others. But at the same time, patents should be enlightening. In other words, the patent owner should disclose some basic and simple points of the patent to the public so as to facilitate a simple application.

The patent is valid. The validity period of general patented technology products is 20 years. After more than 20 years, this patent right will automatically expire. That is, the whole society can openly use this patent. This purpose is because our society should not only protect the rights and interests of inventors, but also give consideration to the rights and interests of the whole society and the public. In addition, after the patent application is successful, an annual fee is required. If the annual fee is not paid on time, the patent will be invalid. In any case, after the patent expires, you can't continue to enjoy the patent right and you can't continue to apply. There is no other solution.