Designs/Patterns

Design of products

The registered design protects the external appearance of products. Not only the shape of a product can be the subject of a design. External ornaments and patterns, graphic user interfaces and symbols are also eligible for design protection.

For a design to be effectively registered, it must be sufficiently different from already known shapes and patterns, whereby the designer’s own publications are harmless during a twelve-month grace period.

Once registered, this IP right can be a very effective means against imitation and is therefore a useful addition to many patent and trademark portfolios.

It is very important to plan already at the time of the first application for a design in which countries protection will be sought later. Depending on this, we select with our clients the appropriate filing office and the representation of the product to be protected.

We accompany our clients in application procedures as well as in the enforcement and defence of their design.

We advise and accompany you in the following areas:

Design applications and examination proceedings at home and abroad
Invalidity proceedings before the German Patent and Trade Mark Office (DPMA) and the European Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO)
Appeal proceedings before the DPMA and the EUIPO
Infringement proceedings before district courts, higher regional courts and the Federal Supreme Court
Design research