The Broken Line Apr 2026

: Ironically, using more broken lines can make a patent stronger. By using broken lines for most of an object and solid lines only for a specific unique feature (like the horn of a saddle), the patent owner prevents competitors from copying that one part, regardless of what the rest of the product looks like.

: A combination of a solid and broken line creates a "one-way" permission; only the driver on the side of the broken line may legally cross to pass. The Broken Line

: Broken lines also define the "bounds" of a claim, indicating where the protected design ends and the rest of the world begins. 2. The Language of the Road : Ironically, using more broken lines can make