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Frequently asked questions about patent drawings

Clearly explained, backed by sources.

From the formal requirements of the DPMA, the EPO and the PCT to colour, photos and how an order works: 56 answers for inventors, companies and law firms, plus the most important technical terms.

A4 drawing sheet with minimum margins Margins: top 2.5 cm, left 2.5 cm, right 1.5 cm, bottom 1 cm. Usable area no more than 17 by 26.2 cm. Inside it, as an example, Figure 1: a desk lamp in side view with reference signs 10 to 20 and a sectioned, hatched base. 1/3 101214161820 Fig. 1 1726.22.51.52.51
Minimum margins and usable area in centimetres, valid for the DPMA, EPO and PCT

Part 01

Basics

What a patent drawing is, what it is needed for and who creates it.

A patent drawing is the graphic representation of an invention in the application documents. It shows the structure, shape and interaction of the components or the sequence of a process, usually in clear black lines. It is linked to the description by reference signs, i.e. numerals placed on the individual parts.

The drawing supplements the text. It replaces neither the description nor the claims, but it often makes clear at a glance what the text needs several paragraphs to explain.

Sources German Patent Act (PatG), Section 34(3); German Patent Ordinance (PatV), Section 12 with Annex 2Link to this answer

They make technical relationships visible that are cumbersome to describe in words, for example:

  • the shape and arrangement of components
  • connections, bearings and directions of movement
  • internal structures that only become visible in section
  • the sequence of processes and signal paths

Good figures make it easier for examiners, law firms and later readers of the patent specification to understand the invention. More figures are not automatically better, though: each figure should show something the others do not.

Link to this answer

No. Drawings form part of the application if the description or the claims refer to them. In an international application under the PCT, they are required where they are necessary for the understanding of the invention.

In practice, applications for devices, machines, apparatus and components almost always include drawings, because they make the structure quicker to understand. For some inventions, such as chemical substances, formulae in the text are sufficient.

Sources PatG, Section 34(3) No. 5; European Patent Convention (EPC), Article 78(1); Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT), Article 7Link to this answer

Not on its own. The extent of protection is determined by the claims. The description and drawings are, however, used to interpret the claims. A drawing should therefore show exactly what the text says and nothing that contradicts it.

How claims are worded and what protection results from them is a legal question. That is a matter for your patent attorney.

Sources PatG, Section 14; EPC, Article 69(1)Link to this answer

A production drawing says how a part is made: with dimensions, tolerances, material and surface specifications. A patent drawing explains how the invention is constructed and how it works. It does not need production details for this, and explanatory text is largely not permitted in the drawing. The parts are identified by reference signs and explained in the description.

In addition, there are specific formal requirements, for example for margins, lines and character size. An existing engineering drawing can therefore rarely be filed unchanged.

Sources PatV, Annex 2; Decision of the President of the EPO dated 7 July 2025 (OJ EPO 2025, A49)Link to this answer

Patent draftspersons turn the invention into drawings: together with you, they choose the views needed, draw the figures in line with the formal requirements and assign the reference signs to match the description.

Patent attorneys provide legal advice: they assess whether and how an invention can be protected, draft the claims, file the application and represent you before the office.

We specialise in the drawings and support you or your law firm. We do not provide legal advice or handle the filing itself.

Link to this answer

Yes. There is no obligation to have drawings made by professionals. They must, however, meet the formal requirements of the office concerned: margins, line quality, character size, numbering and reference signs that match the description.

If the office objects to formal deficiencies, you will have to make corrections without adding anything to the content (see Amendments after filing). If you draw yourself, you should know the most common mistakes.

Sources PatV, Annex 2; DPMA leaflet “Tipps für Ihre Patentanmeldung” (P 2216)Link to this answer

No. Whether a patent is granted depends above all on whether the invention is new, involves an inventive step and is industrially applicable, and on how the application as a whole is prepared.

A clean drawing ensures that the invention is clearly understandable and that the documents are formally in order. It does not decide on patentability.

Sources PatG, Section 1(1); EPC, Article 52(1)Link to this answer

Usually 18 months after the filing or priority date. The application is then published with the description, claims and drawings, at the DPMA as an Offenlegungsschrift (published application). From then on, your figures can be viewed by anyone, for example in the patent databases of the offices.

The figure published together with the abstract usually appears right on the first page. More on this under Figure accompanying the abstract.

Sources PatG, Section 31(2); EPC, Article 93; PCT, Article 21Link to this answer

In published patent documents. The offices provide them in free databases, such as DEPATISnet (DPMA), Espacenet (EPO), PATENTSCOPE (WIPO) and Patent Public Search (USPTO). There you can see how figures, reference signs and sections are usually shown in your field.

Use other people’s drawings only for reference and do not copy them for your own application.

Source Search databases of the DPMA, EPO, WIPO and USPTOLink to this answer

Part 02

Types of representation

Which views, sections and diagrams exist and when they are useful.

The classic views show an object from fixed viewing directions: front view, side view, top view, rear view and bottom view. In addition, there are three-dimensional representations that convey the overall impression.

Only what helps to explain the invention is drawn. A side view that shows nothing new can be omitted. A good first figure is usually an overall view that shows the invention as meaningfully as possible.

Source PatV, Annex 2Link to this answer

A perspective view shows the object in three dimensions, for example obliquely from above. In isometric projection, a commonly used form, the three spatial axes are each at an angle of 120 degrees to one another in the image and are all drawn to the same scale; parallel edges remain parallel.

Three-dimensional views make the overall impression quickly understandable but hide some parts. That is why they are often combined with other views or sections.

Sources PatV, Annex 2; ISO 5456-3 (axonometric representations)Link to this answer

Whenever the inside is what matters: channels, seals, bearings, cavities or components hidden from the outside. A sectional view shows the object as if it had been cut open along a plane.

A distinction is made between the longitudinal section along the main axis, the cross-section at right angles to it and the partial section, which opens up only part of the object. Where the section runs is marked in another figure with a section line, for example “A–A”. The cut surfaces are hatched.

Sources PatV, Annex 2; Decision of the President of the EPO dated 7 July 2025 (OJ EPO 2025, A49); PCT Rule 11.13Link to this answer

An exploded view shows the parts of an assembly pulled apart, but in the order and orientation in which they fit together. This makes it clear which part sits where and how the parts interlock.

Exploded views are expressly permitted in patent applications. What matters is that the relationship between the parts remains clear and that each part bears the same reference sign as in the other figures.

Source PatV, Annex 2Link to this answer

A detail view shows a small area enlarged so that fine details become visible. A partial view shows only part of the object. Both must be clearly assigned, for example by marking the area in the main figure and relating the detail figure to it.

Detail views also help legibility: everything must still be recognisable when the drawing is reduced to two thirds of its size.

Sources PatV, Annex 2; Decision of the President of the EPO dated 7 July 2025 (OJ EPO 2025, A49)Link to this answer

With schematic figures: flowcharts show process steps and decisions, block diagrams show the functional units of a system and their connections, and circuit diagrams show electrical or electronic connections. Such diagrams also count as drawings and follow the same formal requirements.

A few short catchwords are permitted in these figures if they are indispensable for understanding. Detailed explanations belong in the description.

Sources PatV, Annex 2; Decision of the President of the EPO dated 7 July 2025 (OJ EPO 2025, A49); PCT Rule 11.11Link to this answer

As many as are needed to show the invention completely. There is no fixed number. An overall view and a few detail or sectional figures are often enough; complex assemblies need more.

Too few figures leave features unclear, while too many similar figures only make the application harder to follow. We agree on the selection with you or your law firm before we start drawing.

Link to this answer

Yes. It is often helpful to depict a known solution for comparison. At the DPMA, however, such an illustration must be clearly labelled “Stand der Technik” (prior art) so that it is not confused with the invention.

Source PatV, Annex 2Link to this answer

Yes, if it cannot be fitted legibly onto one sheet. The parts must then fit together seamlessly to form one figure, without anything being hidden, and must be drawn to the same scale. Often, however, it is clearer to split the invention into several separate figures.

Sources PatV, Annex 2; PCT Rule 11.13Link to this answer

Part 03

Formal requirements

The requirements of the DPMA, EPO, PCT and USPTO in detail. Much is the same, some things differ.

That depends on where you file:

  • Germany (DPMA): Section 12 of the German Patent Ordinance (PatV) with the standards in Annex 2.
  • Europe (EPO): the Decision of the President of the EPO dated 7 July 2025, applicable since 1 October 2025, based on Rule 49 EPC. The former Rule 46 EPC on the form of the drawings has been deleted.
  • International (PCT): Rule 11 of the Regulations under the PCT.
  • USA (USPTO): 37 CFR 1.84.
  • Utility models and designs: separate DPMA requirements, see utility models and designs.

The basic rules for patents are largely the same at the DPMA, the EPO and under the PCT. The differences lie mainly in colour, photos and file formats.

Sources PatV, Section 12 with Annex 2; Decision of the President of the EPO dated 7 July 2025 (OJ EPO 2025, A49); PCT Rule 11; 37 CFR 1.84Link to this answer

Drawings are filed on sheets in A4 format (21 × 29.7 cm). The minimum margins are the same at the DPMA, the EPO, under the PCT and at the USPTO:

Minimum margins of a drawing sheet
MarginMinimum
top2.5 cm
left2.5 cm
right1.5 cm
bottom1 cm

This leaves a usable area of no more than 17 × 26.2 cm. At the EPO, under the PCT and in the USA, this area must not be surrounded by a frame. In the USA, the US Letter format (21.6 × 27.9 cm) is also permitted in addition to A4.

Sources PatV, Annex 2; Decision of the President of the EPO dated 7 July 2025 (OJ EPO 2025, A49), Article 1(1); PCT Rules 11.5 and 11.6; 37 CFR 1.84(f) and (g)Link to this answer

At least 0.32 cm high, i.e. just over 3 mm. This applies to reference signs, figure numbers and all other characters at the DPMA, at the EPO, under the PCT and in the USA. Latin letters and, where customary, Greek letters are used.

What counts is the actual height on the finished sheet: if a figure is reduced afterwards, the characters shrink with it. Brackets, circles or inverted commas around numbers and letters are not permitted at the EPO and under the PCT.

Sources PatV, Annex 2; Decision of the President of the EPO dated 7 July 2025 (OJ EPO 2025, A49), Article 1(2); PCT Rule 11.13; 37 CFR 1.84(p)Link to this answer

Black, durable, sufficiently dense and dark, uniformly thick and well defined. The lines should not be drawn freehand but with drawing instruments, i.e. precisely constructed rather than sketched.

The DPMA, the EPO and the PCT do not prescribe a minimum line width in millimetres. What matters is that every line is still clearly recognisable after scanning and reduction. Different line widths, for example for edges and hatching, are common and make the drawing easier to read.

Sources PatV, Annex 2; Decision of the President of the EPO dated 7 July 2025 (OJ EPO 2025, A49), Article 1(2); PCT Rule 11.13Link to this answer

Because drawings are scanned, reduced and printed, for example for the published application. The scale and clarity must therefore be chosen so that all details can still be distinguished without difficulty when the drawing is reduced to two thirds of its size.

In practice, this means: not too many lines in a confined space, hatching with sufficient spacing and an additional detail figure rather than an overloaded overall view.

Sources PatV, Annex 2; Decision of the President of the EPO dated 7 July 2025 (OJ EPO 2025, A49), Article 1(2); PCT Rule 11.13; 37 CFR 1.84(k)Link to this answer

A scale is not required. If one is exceptionally indicated, it must be shown graphically, i.e. as a scale bar and not as an indication such as “1:2”. In the USA, indications such as “actual size” or “scale 1/2” are expressly not permitted.

Within a figure, the parts should be in the correct proportion to one another, unless a different representation is indispensable for clarity.

Sources PatV, Annex 2; Decision of the President of the EPO dated 7 July 2025 (OJ EPO 2025, A49), Article 1(2); PCT Rule 11.13; 37 CFR 1.84(k)Link to this answer

Figures are numbered consecutively with Arabic numerals, independently of the numbering of the sheets. The usual international form is “Fig. 1”, “Fig. 2” and so on; in the USA, “FIG.” before the number is mandatory, and a single figure is not numbered there.

At the EPO and under the PCT, the sheets are also numbered consecutively: at the EPO in the centre at the top, under the PCT in the centre at the top or bottom, in each case not in the margin. In the USA, the sheet number together with the total number of sheets, such as “1/3”, is placed in the centre at the top.

Sources PatV, Annex 2; Decision of the President of the EPO dated 7 July 2025 (OJ EPO 2025, A49), Articles 1 and 2; PCT Rules 11.7 and 11.13; 37 CFR 1.84(t) and (u)Link to this answer

By hatching, i.e. regular parallel lines on the cut surfaces. The hatching must not obscure reference signs and lead lines or make them difficult to read. Where sectioned parts adjoin one another, a different direction or spacing of the hatching lines helps to tell them apart.

Sources PatV, Annex 2; Decision of the President of the EPO dated 7 July 2025 (OJ EPO 2025, A49), Article 1(2); PCT Rule 11.13Link to this answer

At the DPMA, you should avoid them. The office expressly names weak contrast, especially in grey shading, as a typical deficiency. Depth in patent drawings is therefore created by lines, not by shaded areas; hatching is intended for sections.

At the EPO, greyscale drawings have been permitted since 1 October 2025 if they are filed electronically (see Colour at the EPO). In the USA, shading is expressly encouraged where it aids understanding and does not reduce legibility; solid black areas are generally not permitted there, apart from a few exceptions.

Sources DPMA leaflet “Tipps für Ihre Patentanmeldung” (P 2216); Decision of the President of the EPO dated 7 July 2025 (OJ EPO 2025, A49); Notice from the EPO dated 5 September 2025 (OJ EPO 2025, A57); 37 CFR 1.84(m)Link to this answer

Hardly any. Only short, indispensable words are permitted, such as “water”, “steam”, “open”, “closed” or “section on A–B”. In circuit diagrams, block diagrams and flowcharts, a few short catchwords may also be included.

All explanations belong in the description. At the EPO and under the PCT, words must be placed so that they can be replaced in a translation without covering any lines.

Sources PatV, Annex 2; Decision of the President of the EPO dated 7 July 2025 (OJ EPO 2025, A49), Article 1(2); PCT Rule 11.11Link to this answer

Reference signs are the numerals, occasionally also letters, used to identify the parts of an invention in the drawing and to explain them in the description. Fixed rules apply:

  • Every reference sign in the drawing must appear in the description or the claims, and vice versa.
  • A feature keeps the same reference sign in all figures.
  • Reference signs are at least 0.32 cm high; at the EPO and under the PCT, they are shown without brackets, circles or inverted commas.
  • Lead lines run from the sign to the part; they should be short and should not cross.

Where there are many reference signs, the PCT recommends a separate sheet listing them. We check every figure against your list.

Sources PatV, Annex 2; Decision of the President of the EPO dated 7 July 2025 (OJ EPO 2025, A49), Article 1(2); PCT Rule 11.13Link to this answer

Every application includes a short abstract of the invention. If the application contains drawings, a particularly meaningful figure is selected to be published together with the abstract. At the EPO and under the PCT, the applicant indicates this figure.

At the DPMA, a smaller area is provided for the drawing accompanying the abstract: no more than 8.1 × 9.4 cm in portrait format or 17.4 × 4.5 cm in landscape format. The figure must therefore remain clearly legible even at a small size.

Sources PatV, Annex 2; Rule 47(4) EPC; PCT Rule 8.2Link to this answer

Yes. Each office applies its own regulations, for example the USPTO in the USA, CNIPA in China or the JPO in Japan. The basics are similar: sheet size, minimum margins, black lines and a minimum height for numerals. The differences lie mainly in colour, photos, shading, sheet numbering and language.

For international applications under the PCT, the following applies: as a rule, national offices may not impose requirements as to form or contents that differ from or go beyond those of the PCT itself. Drawings that comply with PCT Rule 11 therefore generally do not have to be redrawn in the national phase. This does not affect translations and other formalities.

Sources PCT, Article 27(1); PCT Rule 11Link to this answer

The rules are set out in 37 CFR 1.84. The most important differences from Europe:

  • In addition to A4, US Letter (21.6 × 27.9 cm) is permitted; all sheets must be the same size. The minimum margins correspond to the European ones.
  • Figures are labelled “FIG. 1”, “FIG. 2” and so on; a single figure is not numbered.
  • Each sheet bears a number such as “1/3” in the centre at the top.
  • Shading is encouraged where it aids understanding.
  • For utility patents, colour drawings are only permitted on a petition subject to a fee, if colour is the only practical medium of disclosure. Photos are only permitted if the invention cannot be shown in any other way.

US design applications are partly subject to their own rules.

Sources 37 CFR 1.84; USPTO, Manual of Patent Examining Procedure (MPEP) 608.02Link to this answer

Part 04

Colour, photos and files

When colour, greyscale and photos are permitted and in which files drawings are filed.

That depends on the filing route:

  • DPMA, patent: no. Drawings must be executed in black lines without colours; coloured graphics are not permitted even when filing electronically.
  • DPMA, utility model: the DPMA advises against colour, because the utility model document is published in black and white and information can be lost.
  • EPO: yes, since 1 October 2025, but only when filing electronically (see Colour at the EPO).
  • PCT, international phase: no. Colour drawings are converted to black and white for publication (see Colour under the PCT).
  • USA: for utility patents only on a petition subject to a fee, if colour is the only practical medium of disclosure.
  • Designs: yes. Colour representations are possible in design applications, because colour can be part of the protected appearance.

If you intend to file in several countries, a high-contrast black-and-white version is the safe starting point.

Sources PatV, Annex 2; DPMA notes on utility model applications; Decision of the President of the EPO dated 7 July 2025 (OJ EPO 2025, A49); Notice from the EPO dated 5 September 2025 (OJ EPO 2025, A57); PCT Rule 11.13; 37 CFR 1.84(a); DPMA notes on design applicationsLink to this answer

Since 1 October 2025, the EPO has accepted drawings in colour and in greyscale if they are filed electronically, for example via Online Filing 2.0 or MyEPO. They are then no longer converted to black and white. The following applies:

  • The drawings must have sufficient contrast and be clearly reproducible at a resolution of 300 dpi.
  • Colour is only permitted in the drawings, not in the description, claims or abstract.
  • For Euro-PCT applications, the EPO only uses a colour version if it is available on PATENTSCOPE and the international publication refers to it.

A colour version must not show more than the documents as originally filed. The EPO also advises against referring to colours in the text, because colour information cannot always be reliably recognised.

Sources Decision of the President of the EPO dated 7 July 2025 (OJ EPO 2025, A49); Notice from the EPO dated 5 September 2025 (OJ EPO 2025, A57); EPC, Article 123(2)Link to this answer

In the international phase, black lines without colours are required. If you nevertheless file colour drawings, they are converted to black and white for international publication. For applications filed electronically, the original colour version may additionally be available on PATENTSCOPE; the publication then refers to it.

Whether the colour version is later used in the regional or national phase depends on the office concerned; the EPO does so only under the conditions mentioned above. As grey tones and fine colour differences can be lost during conversion, a high-contrast black-and-white version is advisable for PCT applications.

Sources PCT Rule 11.13; Notice from the EPO dated 5 September 2025 (OJ EPO 2025, A57)Link to this answer

Only in exceptional cases. The regulations are designed for line drawings:

  • DPMA, utility model: photographs cannot replace drawings because, according to the DPMA, they are not suitable for publication.
  • DPMA, patent: the Patent Ordinance does not expressly provide for photos. Greyscale image files are accepted for electronic filing, but weak contrast and grey shading are regarded as a typical deficiency.
  • EPO: photos are possible if what is shown cannot be represented in a drawing, if they are directly reproducible and if they meet the formal requirements for drawings, such as sheet size and margins.
  • USA: photos are only permitted if they are the only practicable medium for illustrating the invention.

Design applications are different: there, photos are a common means of representation. And as source material, a photo of your prototype is ideal, because we use it to draw the figure in the required form.

Sources DPMA notes on utility model applications; PatV, Annex 2; DPMA leaflet “Tipps für Ihre Patentanmeldung” (P 2216); Guidelines for Examination in the EPO, Part A, Chapter IX; 37 CFR 1.84(b)Link to this answer

For electronic filing, Annex 2 of the Patent Ordinance specifies three formats, each no larger than A4:

  • TIFF: black and white at 300 dpi or in 256 shades of grey at 150 dpi; uncompressed or with LZW or FAX Group 4 compression.
  • JPEG: greyscale only, at 150 dpi.
  • PDF: black and white only and only with the fonts Times, Helvetica, Courier and Symbol, without encryption and without restrictions, for example on printing.

Coloured graphics are not permitted. If you file on paper, use smooth, light-coloured paper without folds or tears.

Sources PatV, Annex 2; DPMA leaflet “Tipps für Ihre Patentanmeldung” (P 2216)Link to this answer

Part 05

Errors and amendments

Typical deficiencies, missing figures and what may still be changed after filing.

In its notes for applicants, the DPMA mainly names these deficiencies:

  • lines drawn freehand
  • contrast too weak, especially with grey shading
  • colours
  • patterned or dark paper, folds or tears
  • missing minimum margins
  • numbers and letters too small
  • figures running into one another
  • missing or incomplete numbering and reference signs

On top of that come errors in content: reference signs that are missing from the description or are used for two different parts, and figures that contradict the description. Not every error leads to refusal, but every one costs time.

Sources DPMA leaflet “Tipps für Ihre Patentanmeldung” (P 2216); PatV, Annex 2Link to this answer

If an application filed with the DPMA refers to drawings that are missing, the office invites the applicant to file them within one month of service of the invitation or to declare that the reference is to be regarded as not made. If the drawings are filed later, the date of their receipt becomes the filing date; otherwise, the reference is deemed not to have been made.

At the EPO, missing drawings are governed by Rule 56 EPC. There, too, the filing date may change; special rules apply if the missing parts are completely contained in a validly claimed priority application.

A later filing date can have significant consequences. All figures should therefore be complete before the application is filed. How to proceed in an individual case is a matter for your patent attorney.

Sources PatG, Section 35(2); Rule 56 EPCLink to this answer

Formal corrections are generally possible, extensions of content are not. Amendments are only permissible if they do not extend the subject-matter of the application beyond the content of the application as originally filed. Redrawing a figure more cleanly, correcting margins or adjusting the character size is something different from adding new parts, variants or functions.

Whether a specific amendment is permissible is a legal question. We implement corrections agreed with you or your law firm.

Sources PatG, Section 38; EPC, Article 123(2)Link to this answer

You should be careful about that. Anything made available to the public before the filing or priority date forms part of the prior art, even if you published it yourself, for example on your website, on social media or at a trade fair. This can stand in the way of the novelty of your own invention.

For patents, there is no general grace period for your own publications in Germany or at the EPO, only narrowly limited exceptions. For utility models, there is a grace period in Germany: your own disclosures in the six months before filing are disregarded under certain conditions. It is best to discuss whether and when you can show your invention with your patent attorney beforehand.

We treat your documents confidentially.

Sources PatG, Section 3; Utility Model Act (GebrMG), Section 3(1); EPC, Articles 54 and 55Link to this answer

Formal deficiencies can usually be remedied quickly: margins, lines, character size or numbering. Send us the communication from the office and we will adapt the figures concerned. Nothing may be added to the content that goes beyond the original documents (see Amendments after filing).

The time limit for the reply is stated in the communication. You or your law firm take care of the reply to the office.

Link to this answer

Part 06

Utility models and designs

Drawings for utility models and representations for design applications.

As with a patent, drawings are required if the claims or the description refer to them. The formal requirements are laid down in the Utility Model Ordinance.

The DPMA advises against colour drawings, because the utility model document is published in black and white and information can be lost. Greyscale is also problematic; cross-sections are hatched. Photos cannot replace drawings.

Sources Utility Model Ordinance (GebrMV), Sections 4 and 7; DPMA notes on utility model applications (as of 29 January 2026)Link to this answer

A patent drawing explains how an invention is technically constructed and how it works. A design representation, on the other hand, shows what a product looks like: shape, contours, colours and surfaces. With a design, what is protected is what is visible in the representations; what is not shown is not protected either.

That is why different rules apply: reference signs, dimensions and explanatory text do not belong in a design representation, whereas colour and photos are possible.

Sources Design Act (DesignG), Section 1; DPMA notes on design applications (as of 27 March 2026)Link to this answer

The key points from the DPMA’s notes:

  • Up to ten representations per design; each shows exactly one view, the first ideally the overall view.
  • Photos, drawings or computer-generated graphics are possible, in colour, greyscale or black and white; ideally only one type of representation per image.
  • A neutral, uniform background that clearly stands out from the design.
  • No dimensions, explanations or objects that are not part of the design.
  • Electronically as JPEG with at least 300 dpi and 355 × 355 pixels, no more than 2 MB per file.

Registered EU designs at the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) are subject to their own requirements.

Sources Design Ordinance (DesignV); DPMA notes on design applications (as of 27 March 2026)Link to this answer

Part 07

Working with us

How an order works with us and what you need for it.

To begin with, whatever is available is enough: hand sketches, photos of a prototype, a sample or existing drawings. A draft of the description with the list of reference signs is very helpful, so that the drawing and text match exactly.

Where something is unclear, we ask rather than adding details that are not in your documents.

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  1. Reviewing the documents: you send sketches, photos or a sample. We check which views are needed and ask any questions.
  2. Quote: you receive a quote with the number of figures, price and delivery date.
  3. Drawing: we create the figures and add reference signs according to your list.
  4. Review and handover: after your review, we incorporate corrections and deliver the files ready for filing.

Link to this answer

There is no standard price. The effort depends mainly on the number and complexity of the figures: a simple view is drawn faster than an exploded view with many individual parts or a section through a complex assembly. The quality of the source material also plays a role.

You receive a quote with a fixed price before we start. Official fees and the costs of a law firm are not included.

Link to this answer

We agree on the delivery date with the quote. If a deadline is pressing, such as a planned filing date, please let us know right away when you enquire, and we will plan accordingly.

Link to this answer

You receive the figures as PDF files, suitable for electronic filing with the DPMA, the EPO or for international applications under the PCT. On request, we also supply other file formats, such as TIFF (see File formats at the DPMA).

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Yes. We treat documents relating to unpublished inventions confidentially and do not pass them on to third parties. If you wish, we will sign a non-disclosure agreement before any documents are exchanged. For particularly sensitive documents, we are happy to agree on a different way of transferring them in advance.

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Yes. We bring older or self-made drawings into the required form and adapt individual figures if the office requests changes. For applications that have already been filed, we make sure that nothing is added to the content.

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We draw to the formal requirements that apply to your application, for example for the German Patent and Trade Mark Office (DPMA), the European Patent Office (EPO) or international applications under the PCT. Just tell us where you intend to file.

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No. Coordination and data exchange work entirely digitally, so we work for clients from all over Germany and abroad. If you are nearby, you are welcome to visit us by appointment.

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Part 08

Glossary A–Z

The most important terms relating to patent drawings, briefly explained.

Abstract
Short summary of the invention that serves as technical information and is published, where applicable, together with a selected figure.
Block diagram
Schematic representation of the functional units of a system and their connections.
Claim
Part of the application that defines the matter for which protection is sought. The claims determine the extent of protection.
Description
The text part of the application that explains the invention and refers to the drawings by means of reference signs.
Design representation
Image of a design in the application. It determines which visible features are protected.
Detail view
Enlarged representation of part of an object so that fine details become visible.
DPMA
German Patent and Trade Mark Office, based in Munich, responsible for German patents, utility models, trade marks and designs.
Drawing sheet
A4 sheet with one or more figures.
EPC
European Patent Convention, the legal basis for European patent applications.
EPO
European Patent Office. It grants European patents under the European Patent Convention.
Exploded view
Representation of an assembly with its parts pulled apart, in the order in which they fit together.
Figure
Individual, numbered illustration within the drawings, such as “Fig. 1”.
Filing date
The day on which the application with the required minimum documents is received by the office. Among other things, it determines which prior art is taken into account.
Flowchart
Representation of a process in steps and decisions; also called a flow diagram.
Hatching
Regular parallel lines that mark cut surfaces.
Isometric projection
Three-dimensional representation in which the three axes in the image are each 120 degrees apart and are drawn to the same scale.
Lead line
Short line connecting a reference sign to the part it designates; also called a leader line.
Line drawing
Drawing made up only of lines, without solid colours or grey tones; the usual form of a patent drawing.
List of reference signs
List of all reference signs with the parts they designate.
National phase
Stage of a PCT application in which it is pursued before the offices of the selected states.
Partial section
Section that opens up only part of the object and shows the rest in normal view.
Patent specification
Publication of the granted patent.
PCT
Patent Cooperation Treaty. It enables one international application for many states, but not a worldwide patent.
Perspective view
Three-dimensional representation that shows an object as it is seen obliquely from above or from the side.
Prior art
All technical knowledge made available to the public before the relevant date of the application.
Priority
The earlier filing date of a first application, which a later application for the same invention can claim within twelve months.
Published application
Publication of a German patent application (Offenlegungsschrift), usually 18 months after the filing or priority date and before any grant.
Reference sign
Numeral or letter used to identify a part in the drawing and to explain it in the description.
Sectional view
Representation of an object as if it had been cut open along a plane; makes internal parts visible.
Usable area
The area of a drawing sheet available within the minimum margins, no more than 17 × 26.2 cm.
Utility model
German industrial property right for technical inventions that is registered without examination of novelty and inventive step. Processes are excluded.
Vector graphic
Graphic made up of mathematically defined lines and curves that can be enlarged and reduced without loss of quality.
View
Representation of an object from a fixed viewing direction, such as a front, side or top view.
WIPO
World Intellectual Property Organization, based in Geneva; among other things, it administers the PCT system.

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