Intellectual property rights refer to creations of the mind such as inventions, artistic works, designs, and symbols. There are several types of intellectual property protections including patents, trademarks, copyrights, geographical indications, industrial designs, trade secrets, integrated circuit layout designs, and plant variety protections. Patents provide a limited duration exclusive right to an invention in exchange for public disclosure. Trademarks protect distinctive signs that identify goods and services. Copyright protects original creative works. [/SUMMARY]