Annotation Techniques — Theory

Annotations are a key part of nearly every utility patent drawing. They help examiners, inventors, and legal teams understand which part of a figure is being referenced. But creating reference numbers, lead lines, brackets, and labels manually can be time-consuming and error-prone.

That’s why we created the IP DaVinci Annotation Stencil — a custom Visio stencil that gives you pre-built, professional, and patent-compliant annotation shapes. With it, you can drag, drop, and edit annotations quickly and consistently, saving hours on every figure.

Follow these steps to open the stencil and begin using it in your drawing:

1. Download the stencil file:
• Save IP-DaVinci-Annotation-Stencil.vssx to a folder like “My Visio Stencils.”
2. Open your working Visio drawing.
3. Load the stencil:
• Go to the Shapes panel → More Shapes → Open Stencil
• Navigate to where you saved the stencil and click Open.
• Begin using shapes: Drag any shape from the stencil onto your drawing and start annotating!

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The stencil includes several annotation shapes. Each one is designed to serve a specific function while maintaining visual consistency and patent compliance.

A lead line connected to a reference number placeholder. Use when pointing to a specific component.

• Replace XXX with the correct number.
• Adjust the curve, reference number position, and endpoints using control handles.

Same as Line & RefNum but with an arrowhead. Use when referring to groups or general areas.

A standalone reference number. Use when a lead line or bracket is already present.

A reference number with an underline. Use when placing the number inside an object to avoid confusion.

Curved lead line with no number. Use to connect additional parts to an existing reference number.

Lead line with an arrowhead but no number. Use when pointing to multiple elements grouped under a single reference.

Visual grouping indicator. Combine with a RefNum or Label to annotate multiple components together.

Freeform text box for describing groups, signals, or functionality.

Label for marking drawing figures (e.g., FIG. 1, FIG. 2). Place at the top or corner of the drawing page.

By mastering the use of the IP DaVinci Annotation stencil, you can efficiently add and adjust reference numbers, lead lines, and annotations to create professional, patent-compliant drawings. This structured approach ensures that your diagrams are clear, accurate, and ready for submission.

Now that you understand the theory, it’s time to put it into practice! Complete the hands-on exercise in the practice page to develop your skills in adding and adjusting annotations in patent drawings.