Can design changes be patented?

[parmike]

What is the name of your state? West Virginia

After reading US Patent Laws, I still don't know if I can protect an idea I have to enhance the functionability of an existing patented product by changing its design. The changes I have in mind will not affect the obvious function of the product, but only improve its function by changing its appearance via design changes. Is this good criteria for applying for a patent? If not, can ideas such as mine be protected some other way?

 

[JETX]

"but only improve its function by changing its appearance via design changes."
*** Simply changing the appearance of something would not sufficient for patent rights.