How are broken lines used in design patent drawings?

Broken lines in design patent drawings are used to show portions of the article that are not part of the claimed design. Key points include:

• Solid lines show the claimed design elements
• Broken lines show unclaimed or environmental elements
• The use of broken lines must be explained in the specification
• Converting solid lines to broken lines (or vice versa) is generally not considered new matter

The MPEP states: The scope of a claimed design is defined by what is shown in full lines in the application drawings. (MPEP 1504.04)

To learn more:

• design patents
• patent drawings
• broken lines
• solid lines