Opportunity
GMI has secured Design Patents for dozens of clients, a prime example being a Vermont-based home accessory company. The new products in development by the company were fresh new takes on long-existing consumer goods – so utility patents were not applicable. But the client needed to protect the distinctive look of their products.
Result
Design Patent applications were filed for three products. Design patents protect the ornamental appearance of object, and can be strong pieces of intellectual property. Design protection was also secured in Europe (Registered Community Design), Canada (Industrial Design), and Australia (Registered Design).
Advantages
The Design Patents are a key tool for the company discouraging copy-cat competitors, and are an asset in the company’s valuation. The cost is also a fraction of a utility patent, and time to issuance often under 18 months.
