Protecting appearance.
WHAT A REGISTERED DESIGN PROTECTS
The visual appearance of an article: shape, configuration, pattern or ornament.
WHAT IT DOES NOT PROTECT
How it works.
WHAT THAT DISTINCTION MEANS
Function is the domain of patents; appearance is the domain of designs.
WHAT REQUIREMENTS APPLY
Novelty, generally, and that it is not dictated solely by function.
WHY NOVELTY MATTERS
Prior disclosure can prevent registration.
WHAT TO DO
Register before displaying or selling.
WHAT IT SUITS
Products where appearance matters commercially.
WHAT EXAMPLES LOOK LIKE
Furniture Packaging Textiles and fashion Consumer products
WHAT THE APPLICATION REQUIRES
Representations of the design Classification Fees
WHY THE REPRESENTATIONS MATTER
They define what is protected.
WHAT TO INCLUDE
Views sufficient to show the design completely.
WHAT DURATION APPLIES
A defined term, renewable per the rules.
WHAT COPYRIGHT MAY ALSO COVER
Artistic aspects, in some circumstances.
WHY THE OVERLAP IS COMPLEX
The interaction between design and copyright protection varies.
WHAT TO TAKE ADVICE ON
Which protection applies to your product.
WHAT TO KEEP
The certificate and the representations filed.
WHAT TO CALENDAR
Renewal.
