How are reproductions or specimens presented in an international design application?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-30

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.

According to MPEP 2909, reproductions or specimens in an international design application must be presented as follows:

  • Reproductions may be in the form of photographs or other graphic representations of the industrial design
  • They must be of a quality permitting all the details of the industrial design to be clearly distinguished
  • Specimens may be submitted instead of reproductions where the international design application is filed with the USPTO as the Office of Indirect Filing

The MPEP states: “Rule 9 and Part Four of the Administrative Instructions specify requirements concerning reproductions and specimens.” It’s important to note that the specific requirements may vary depending on the designated Contracting Parties.

Topics: MPEP 2900 - International Design Applications MPEP 2909 - Contents Of The International Design Application Patent Law Patent Procedure
Tags: Hague Overview