A registered design is a legal right which protects the overall visual appearance and features of a 2D and 3D product or a part of a product in the country or countries you register it.
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A three-dimensional product such as an industrial or handicraft item.
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A two-dimensional ornamentation e.g. a pattern intended for display upon a product or a stylised logo.
The term product can also refer to packaging, graphic symbols, typographic typefaces and parts assembled into a more complex products.
It forms the basis of an infringement action against other parties, and will helps stop others from creating designs which are too similar to your own - within the geographical area that the design has been registered.
It is easier to sell or license and easier to stop people from copying the design.
The registration of the design often acts as a deterrent for upto 25 years.
The onus is on any infringing party to prove they have not infringed the rights.
The design is registered on IPOs register in the country it was filed.
Be new - no identical (or similar) design has been published or publicly disclosed in the UK.
Be new - no identical (or similar) design has been published or publicly disclosed in the European Economic Area (EEA).
Have individual character - the appearance of the design (known as the overall impression).
Is different from the appearance of other already known designs.
The design by legal definition is not a design.
It consists of, or includes, certain protected flags and international emblems.
It is offensive.
It is solely dictated by the product’s technical function.
As long as renewal fees are paid every five years, a Registered Design generally has a life of 25 years.
Provide an honest appraisal and examine your design for design registration suitability.
Advise on the design registration process and how it works.
Undertake a search prior to proceeding with the registration process.
Make suggestions that will improve the chances of your design obtaining design registration.
Compile and file your design application and pursue it through to approval.
Deal with any IPO objections and maintain and file renewals.
Advise on the best protection strategy for your design.
Assist with the transfer of your rights to a third party.