A ____________________ protects the invention or innovation of a new design for an item that will be manufactured.

Group of answer choices

Design Patent

Utility Patent

Plant Patent

Manufacturing Patent

Design Patent

The correct answer is a Design Patent.

The correct answer is a Design Patent. To understand why, let's break down the different options:

1. Design Patent: This type of patent protects the invention or innovation of a new design for an item that will be manufactured. It is specifically focused on the appearance or ornamental aspect of a product. To obtain a design patent, one needs to file an application with the patent office, including detailed drawings or illustrations of the design.

2. Utility Patent: A utility patent, on the other hand, protects the functional aspects or specific methods of making and using an invention. It is not solely focused on the design or appearance, but rather the useful and new features of a product or process. This type of patent can cover a broad range of technologies.

3. Plant Patent: A plant patent is specifically designed to protect new and distinct varieties of plants, including plants that have been asexually reproduced (e.g., through grafting or cutting) rather than produced by seed. Plant patents are granted by the patent office to individuals who have discovered, invented, or developed a new type of plant.

4. Manufacturing Patent: The term "manufacturing patent" is not a recognized category or type of patent. It is likely a term used generically to refer to patents related to manufacturing processes or methods, which would generally be covered under utility patents.

In summary, the type of patent that would protect the invention or innovation of a new design for an item that will be manufactured is a Design Patent.