You never know when you will have an unexpected need that could be easily addressed if you just knew where to go or what to use. My curiosity has often been rewarded by walking down the aisle less traveled, only to discover an obscure tool that is the perfect solution to solve that problem I've been putting off addressing. Utility model patents often fit the bill as that little-known and seldom-used tool that is a perfect fit for extending your intellectual property protection abroad.