An Appearance Design Patent protects the visual design of a product, focusing on its shape, surface, and overall aesthetic. This type of patent ensures that the unique look of an item, such as a smartphone or furniture, cannot be copied by others. It does not cover the functional aspects of the product, only its ornamental features. To obtain an appearance design patent, the design must be new, original, and non-obvious. The patent typically lasts for 15 years in the United States, allowing the holder exclusive rights to the design during that period. This encourages innovation and creativity in product design.