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Design Patent Protection for Computer Generated Icons and Graphical User Interfaces

Intellectual Property Law Blog

Recent patent cases have made it more difficult to obtain utility patent protection for some of the functional aspects of computer software. Strategic use of design patents can be an important part of an overall patent strategy. Strategic use of design patents can be an important part of an overall patent strategy.

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USPTO Publishes Final Rule Establishing Separate Design Patent Bar

IP Watchdog

Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) today announced that a final rule will be published tomorrow, November 16, in the Federal Register implementing a design patent practitioner bar. A request for comments (RFC) was also published in October 22.

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Defending Design Patents

Patently-O

In our new paper, The Truth About Design Patents , we debunk three widely held—but incorrect—views about U.S. design patents. Taken together, these myths paint a grim picture of design patents: Half of all design patent applications are rejected. Acquiring Design Patents.

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“badgalriri” Renders Puma’s Design Patent Invalid

JD Supra Law

A seemingly innocuous Instagram post by Rihanna is the reason that a Puma design patent* was held invalid. Last week, the General Court of the European Union affirmed the decision of a lower tribunal, invalidating Puma’s application on the grounds that the design had been publicly disclosed prior to the application’s filing date.

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China’s Rise in U.S. Design Patent System

Patently-O

WIPO administers the WIPO-administered Hague System for the International Registration of Industrial Designs. In 2015, the US linked its design patent system with Hague — this gives U.S. designers easier access to global design rights; and non-U.S. design patent system. by Dennis Crouch.

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Design Patent: Invalid as Unduly Functional

Patently-O

Evo’s design patent claims an “ ornamental design for a foldable bag ” as shown in the figures above. district court held the patent invalid as both functional and obvious; and also not infringed. Functionality : Design patents focus on ornamentality rather than utility. by Dennis Crouch.

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What are the requirements for getting a design patent?

Patent Trademark Blog

Are there any requirements for getting a design patent? Design patents can be quite powerful. Even though design patents are easier to get than utility patents, it is still possible for a design application to be rejected. 35 USC 171 sets forth the requirements for getting a design patent.