§ 171. Patents for designs

• (a) Whoever invents any new, original and ornamental design for an article of manufacture may obtain a patent therefor, subject to the conditions and requirements of this title.
• (b) The provisions of this title relating to patents for inventions shall apply to patents for designs, except as otherwise provided.
• (c) The filing date of an application for patent for design shall be the date on which the specification as prescribed by section 112 and any required drawings are filed.