Yes, "substantially similar" is a common qualifier used in legal language to describe something that closely resembles another element or pattern. Therefore, the terms "pattern" and "substantially similar" can intersect in the context of determining infringement or similarity in intellectual property law.
In intellectual property law, courts often consider whether a pattern or design of a product is "substantially similar" to another in order to determine if there has been infringement. This analysis typically involves looking at the overall impression created by the two patterns and assessing whether they share enough similarities to constitute infringement. Factors such as the level of detail, color scheme, and overall composition may all be taken into account when making this determination. Ultimately, the goal is to assess whether an ordinary observer would see the two patterns as essentially the same or if there are enough differences to distinguish them. This intersection between the concepts of pattern and substantially similar is crucial in resolving disputes over intellectual property rights and ensuring that creators are protected from unauthorized use of their work.