What are the guidelines for representing industrial designs in reproductions?

The guidelines for representing industrial designs in reproductions are outlined in the Administrative Instructions for the Hague Agreement. Key points include: Reproductions should represent the industrial design alone or the product in relation to which the design is to be used. No other objects, accessories, persons, or animals should be included in the representation. According…

Read More

How long is the term for design patents?

The term for design patents varies based on the filing date: For design patents issued from applications filed before May 13, 2015: 14 years from the date of patent grant. For design patents issued from applications filed on or after May 13, 2015: 15 years from the date of patent grant. This change is due…

Read More

What is the purpose of the Locarno Classification manual?

The Locarno Classification manual, available from WIPO, serves as a comprehensive guide for classifying industrial designs. According to the MPEP, the manual delineates the individual classes and subclasses and includes: (1) a general list of classes of industrial designs divided into broad subclasses; and (2) an alphabetical list of specific industrial designs with an indication…

Read More

What is the Locarno Classification system for design patents?

The Locarno Classification system is an international classification system for industrial designs. It’s used to enhance accessibility of design patents in foreign search files and commercial databases. According to the MPEP, The Locarno International Classification system was developed by members of the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property and is administered by the…

Read More

What is the Hague Agreement and how does it affect international design applications?

The Hague Agreement Concerning International Registration of Industrial Designs is an international treaty that allows applicants to file a single international design application with effect in multiple countries. The MPEP explains: The Hague Agreement is an international agreement that enables an applicant to file a single international design application which may have the effect of…

Read More

What is the proper way to cite international registrations published by WIPO under the Hague Agreement?

International registrations published by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) under the Hague Agreement Concerning the International Registration of Industrial Designs require a specific citation format. These publications, also known as published international design applications, do not have a unique publication number. The MPEP provides guidance on how to cite these documents: “When citing an…

Read More

What is the Hague Agreement and how does it affect international design applications?

The Hague Agreement Concerning International Registration of Industrial Designs is an international treaty that allows applicants to file a single international design application with effect in multiple countries. Key points about the Hague Agreement and international design applications include: The United States became a Contracting Party to the Hague Agreement on May 13, 2015. An…

Read More