Understanding what a utility certificate is
The utility certificate, a lightweight patent

The French utility certificate (better known internationally as the "modèle d'utilité") is a property title that protects a technical invention through a streamlined examination procedure ( article L611-2 du CPI , articles R616-1 à R616-3 du CPI ). Although sometimes referred to as a "utility model", the "utility certificate" should not be confused with the French "model", which is designed to protect the aesthetic features of a utilitarian product.

Utility certificates are similar to patents, and are governed by the same articles of