Related Designs: Extending Protection around a Principal Design
Product designs can be copied quickly. Subtle differences in shape and pattern also make legal assessments of similarity challenging.
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Secret Designs as a Pre-Launch Protection Strategy
Design protection is particularly sensitive to trends and timing. Designs can be copied quickly, with multiple similar products appearing during a short commercial season.
Read articleFaster Product Design Protection through Partial Examination
As functional differences between products narrow, design becomes more important. Delays in registration can make it difficult to align protection with a product launch.
Read articleUnderstanding Exclusive Design Licenses
Design rights protect a product's appearance. A rights holder may use the design itself or authorize another business to use it through a license.
Read articleNon-Exclusive Design Licenses: A Practical Guide
As product competitiveness moves beyond technology to aesthetic value, design has now become a key business asset that influences the product's first impression, consumer choice, and brand image.
Read articlePatent Court Finds Earphone-Case Design Based on Travel Luggage Lacks Creativity
The Patent Court held that registered earphone-case designs incorporating design elements of travel luggage were invalid for lack of creativity (2024 Heo 14780 and 2024 Heo 14803). The decisions discuss similarity, ease of creation and standards in fields where designs are commonly adapted between products…
Read articleDesign Rights Transfers from A to Z
A transfer of a registered design right must be recorded to take effect. This guide explains the procedure, required documents and costs.
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