Patents & Copyright

Question 1

Define copyright law

Answer 1

Protects written, drawn and recorded work. Copyright is shown by the c in a circle symbol. It runs out after a certain length of time - for books, it’s 70 years after the authors death in the UK

Question 2

Define trademark

Answer 2

The symbols, logos, words or slogans that are used to represent companies- other companies can’t copy them. Trademarks are shown by tm mark after the logo.
Even colours can be trademarks

Question 3

Define patents

Answer 3

Protects a new invention that could have an ‘industrial application’. Only the designer has the right to have the product manufactured, unless they sell the patent. Parents last for up to 20 years.

Question 4

Legal issues and standards example

Broccoli p-pod

Answer 4

You can protect:
The appearance of the product with registered design
The new finger-power technology with a patent
The logo with a trademark and the instruction booklet and the poster used to promote it by copyright

Question 5

Define registered design

Answer 5

Protects a new designs shape and appearance from being copied. You can register a design up to 25 years and its protected throughout the EU