Utility Patent Illustrations are primarily used for accurately depicting the utility of an invention. These depictions are critical in conveying the functional aspects of an invention. 

Design Patent Illustrations focus on the appearance and unique aesthetics of an article more than the utility or function of the object. Design Patent Illustrations can often differ in appearance from Utility or Trademark illustrations in order to emphasize the design of an article being patented.

Patent Illustrations are vital to the protection of one’s intellectual property. They are extremely useful in breaking down the key components of an invention being patented. As well, they are useful in creating visual foreground for the patent’s context on how the design or function of an invention differs from existing inventions as to protect one’s intellectual property from further replications. It is crucial that the images depicting the articles being patented are precise with no room for confusion. Line drawings are used for this matter to clearly convey specified components of an article. If a colored or highly shaded image were to be used in the replacement of a line drawing, unnecessary elements would be added to the visual depiction and therefore cause confusion as to what is being described or defended within the patent. It is a USPTO standard that the article’s depiction is conveyed by a concise black line. Shaded Graphics and 3D renderings may be used and are useful in the patenting process so long as the filing is a Non Provisional.

Trademark Patent Illustrations focus on the appearance of an identity such as a logo or image depicting the representation of a company, individual or product.

Technical diagrams and flow charts play an important role in the patenting process, they are vital to the visual display of ideas and process of the technicalities within an invention.