Can functional features be protected by design patents?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27 10 Rules5 Related FAQs This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice. While design patents primarily protect ornamental designs, functional features can…

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Can functional features be considered in a design patent anticipation rejection?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27 This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice. Functional features generally cannot be relied upon to support patentability in design patent anticipation…

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How does foreign priority affect benefit claims under 35 U.S.C. 120 in continuation-in-part (CIP) design applications?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27 10 Rules5 Related FAQs This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice. Foreign priority can significantly affect benefit claims under 35 U.S.C.…

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