Design Search

About the service

A design patent search entails examining existing patents to confirm that your design has not already been patented. These patents also enable inventors to introduce innovative design approaches to existing products. They serve as a means of safeguarding the distinctive ornamental aspects of a utilitarian object. In situations where the aesthetic elements are inseparable from the utilitarian object, a design patent can provide protection for these ornamental features.

Methodology

The Methodology of Design Patent search involves broadly scoping, understanding, searching, analysis, and reporting.

Scope of the Project

The Design Patent search project encompasses patents and published patent applications worldwide, focusing on design.

The Design Patent search is conducted in three phases, following a structured approach :

Step 1

Understanding the design

In this initial phase, we familiarize ourselves with the elements of the design.

Step 2

Searching

We perform a comprehensive search on design patent and non-patent databases

Our search strategies encompass :

  • Keyword-based searching

  • Class-based searching, including Locarno/US Classifications.

  • Assignee and inventor-based searching.

  • Citation searching, to identify related design patents.

  • For Design patents, we harness databases like Orbit (from Questel, covering ~100 jurisdictions)., Derwent Innovation (covering ~100 jurisdictions worldwide), Google Patent, and USPTO Design Database, RCD-Online maintained by The trademarks and designs registration office of the European Union, Design View, Hague Express Structured Search for WIPO, Canadian Industrial Designs Database, IP Australia Database, Chinese Design Database.

    Non-patent literature searches cover pertinent databases such as Google, Google images, Amazon, Flipkart, Alibaba, and Google Scholar, etc. to retrieve relevant prior art.

Step 3

Analysis and Reporting

We identify the relevant design patent references on the basis of design based screening.

Deliverable Format  The final deliverable is a structured MS Excel-based report. This report includes all references located during the search Design patent references and Non patent references.
At Effectual Services, we follow a rigorous and systematic approach to Design patent searches, ensuring that our clients receive a comprehensive and well-organized report that aids informed decision-making and innovation in their respective domains.

Why Choose us?

There are several compelling reasons to choose Effectual Services for your Design Patent search needs :

"At Effectual, we have successfully delivered 500+ Design search projects worldwide in various branches of science for gathering and analyzing the latest advancements and innovations in specific scientific fields such as biotechnology, chemistry, environmental science, computer science, medical science, material science, agricultural science, neuroscience, energy science, aeronautical engineering, mechanical engineering, and electrical engineering searches etc.

As a leader in IP services, we bring proven expertise, cutting-edge technology, and a commitment to your success.

"Unlock Innovation and Stay Ahead of the Curve! Choose Effectual Services for Your Design Search Today.

Join hands with us and experience the difference. Contact us today to explore how we can make your projects a resounding success !

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Case Study

Massage device

Challenges

The client sought design search for an innovative massage device with potential therapeutic uses for addressing a specific medical condition. They required an exhaustive design patent search to uncover any existing patents related to comparable designs.

Solution

To conduct a thorough design patent search, follow these steps: First, gain a deep understanding of the design, noting its key features and unique aspects. Next, determine the appropriate design classification, as organized by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), to narrow down your search focus. Utilize various online patent databases, including the USPTO's official website, Google Patents, and specialized design patent databases like orbit. Employ keyword searches, incorporating terms describing design function, appearance, and specific elements. For visually distinctive designs, harness reverse image search tools such as Google Images to identify similar visuals through image uploads or URLs. Lastly, don't forget to explore citation searches within patent documents for references to related patents or design publications, potentially revealing additional pertinent prior art.

Outcome

We were able to pinpoint several patents associated with massage devices tailored for the client's specific medical condition, enabling them to steer clear of potential infringement problems and gain valuable insights to inform the development of their massage devices.

Client testimonial

"I am delighted to share my experience with Effectual Services and their exceptional patent search services for massager devices. As an inventor in the field of wellness and relaxation, protecting my intellectual property was paramount, and Effectual Services played a pivotal role in this journey. Their team conducted a thorough and exhaustive design search, leaving no stone unturned. Their commitment to detail and extensive knowledge in the field was evident throughout the process. What sets Effectual Services apart is their dedication to their clients. They patiently answered my questions and guided me through the intricacies of the search. Their professionalism and expertise instilled confidence in me that my invention was in the right hands."

Pharma Company

FAQ

A person, who has applied for protection of a Design, in any of the convention country, may file an application for registration of the same design in India, within six months from the date of priority. This period of six months is not extendable.

A design patent search is important because it will prevent you from copying a patent that already exists. There are many websites you can use to search for existing design patents. Be careful when performing your own search, though. Some of the websites have restrictions and won't find all existing design patents.

Filing design patents offers several key benefits, including :
  • Exclusive Rights : Design patents grant the holder exclusive rights to the ornamental design of a functional item for a specified period, typically 15 years. This means that no one else can legally make, use, or sell a product with the same design during that time.
  • Protection of Aesthetics : Design patents protect the unique and non-functional visual aspects of a product. This can be crucial for products where aesthetics play a significant role in their market appeal.
  • Brand Recognition : Unique and appealing designs can become distinctive features of a brand, making it easier for consumers to identify and connect with your products in the marketplace.
  • Market Differentiation : Design patents can set your products apart from competitors, enhancing their marketability and potentially commanding premium pricing.
  • Lawsuit Deterrence : Having a design patent can deter potential infringers from copying your product's design, as they would be aware of your exclusive rights and the potential legal consequences.
  • Licensing and Revenue Generation : You can license or sell your design patent to others, providing an additional source of revenue for your business.
  • Asset Protection : Design patents add value to your intellectual property portfolio, which can be significant for businesses seeking investment or acquisition.
  • Enforcement Power : If someone does infringe upon your design patent, you have the legal basis to take action, potentially leading to damages, injunctions, or settlements.
  • Preservation of Trade Dress : Design patents can help preserve the unique visual identity or trade dress of a product or brand, which can be crucial in maintaining a competitive edge.
  • Global Protection : While design patents are specific to the country where they are granted, you can seek protection in multiple countries to safeguard your design internationally through mechanisms like the Hague System.

Overall, filing design patents is a strategic move for businesses and inventors seeking to protect the unique and aesthetically pleasing aspects of their products, ensuring they remain distinctive and marketable in a competitive environment.

Yes, a design search can be tailored to specific geographic regions. This customization is particularly important when you are considering design protection or conducting searches for potential design infringements in specific countries or regions.

A design search can benefit your business in several ways :
  • Intellectual Property Protection : A design search helps identify existing designs that are similar to your product or brand. This information is crucial for determining the uniqueness of your design and whether it is eligible for design patent protection.
  • Avoiding Infringement : Conducting a design search allows you to avoid unintentional infringement of existing design patents or trademarks held by others. This can help you steer clear of costly legal disputes and reputation damage.
  • Market Research : By analyzing existing designs, you can gain insights into market trends and consumer preferences. This can inform your product development and design choices, ensuring your offerings are aligned with customer expectations.
  • Design Innovation : A design search can inspire creativity by exposing you to a wide range of design concepts and ideas. It can spark innovation and help you create unique, eye-catching designs that stand out in the market.
  • Risk Mitigation : Identifying potential design conflicts early in the product development process allows you to make informed decisions. You can modify your design, seek licensing agreements, or explore design-around strategies to minimize risks.
  • Brand Identity : A consistent and distinctive design language across your products can help establish a strong brand identity. Customers are more likely to remember and trust brands with recognizable and appealing designs.
  • Cost Savings : Conducting a design search before investing in product development can save you time and money. It helps you avoid costly redesigns, legal battles, and potential product recalls.
  • Licensing Opportunities : If you identify complementary or non-competing designs during your search, you may explore licensing arrangements with other patent holders. This can generate additional revenue for your business.
  • Global Expansion : If you plan to expand your business internationally, a design search can help ensure your designs comply with the intellectual property laws of different countries, reducing the risk of infringement claims.
US, UK, IN
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