As of May 13th, 2015, inventors in the United States have new options for filing design patents in over 62 countries in one stroke.
Previously, U.S. applicants seeking protection for industrial designs (design patents) in multiple nations had to file individual applications in each of the countries where the product was to be sold. Now applicants can file single international design application either with WIPO or the USPTO. The new rules allow for up to 100 designs in over 62 countries with the filing of one single international application.
“U.S. accession to the Geneva Act of the Hague Agreement will provide applicants with the opportunity for improved efficiencies and cost savings in protecting their innovative designs in the global economy.” “We are extremely excited about joining the Hague Union and contributing to the continued expansion and development of the Hague system which facilitates protection of industrial designs in design registration and examination systems alike.”
Deputy Under Secretary for Commerce for Intellectual Property and Deputy Director of the USPTO Michelle K. Lee.
The Hague system allows applicants to save considerably on their legal fees as they seek international markets. The entry of the U.S in the agreement was delayed as there was concern that U.S examiners would not be able to apply U.S. law to the applications. Under the current Geneva Act, the U.S. will examine the applications under the umbrella of U.S. patent law.
U.S. design patents applied for under this agreement after May 13th, 2015 will have a 15 year term.
Sections 401-405 of Part Four of the rules note with regard to drawings:
Links of interest (5/14/2015):
http://www.uspto.gov/about-us/news-updates/united-states-deposits-instrument-ratification-geneva-act-hague-agreement
http://www.wipo.int/treaties/en/text.jsp?file_id=337315
For innovators and businesses looking to safeguard their inventions, understanding international patent protection is crucial.…
Innovation remains a key differentiator for companies striving to maintain market leadership. Patents not only…
In the ocean of intellectual property, not all patents hold the same value or potential.…
Managing a patent portfolio has become a complex task in today's innovation-driven world. The era…
Navigating the intricate world of patents can be a challenging task for any organization. However,…
Navigating the complexities of patent infringement requires a thorough understanding of various aspects, from claim…