Protecting Designs And Intellectual Property Flashcards
How can creations be protected from being copied or stolen?
- Copyright and design rights
- Registered designs
- Patents
- Trademarks
- Logos
What is copyright and how does a designer do it?
The ‘c’ symbol is used and the designer must sign it with their name and the date. This protects the design from being used without authorisation.
How long does copyright last?
Lasts for 70 years after the designers death.
What are design rights? How does a designer right a work?
Designers sign and date their works and then have them verified by a solicitor. They are automatically protected for 15 years after their creation.
What is a registered design?
• A designer can protect the shape, decoration and appearance of an original product by registering it.
• A unique number is allocated to the design.
• The number can be displayed on the product or its label.
How long does a registered design last?
• Last for 25 years but need to be renewed every 5 years.
What are patents?
• Protect new inventions or how new products work.
• Protect from manufacturing, selling, importing and using an invention without permission.
• Not valid for aesthetic or artistic work.
How do you apply for a patent?
Designers need to apply for patents with a detailed description and explanatory diagrams.
• Expensive process
• Difficult to get
• Take around 5 years to obtain
• Last for 20 years but need to be renewed every year.
What are trademarks?
Distinctive, new and unique signs used to identify and promote a brand, product, or organisation. Uses the ‘r’ symbol.
What is the TM symbol used for?
Unregistered trademarks
How many years must the trademark be renewed?
Every 10 years.
What are logos?
Graphic symbols or designs used alongside the name of the business, often used on packaging, uniforms or marketing materials.
- they are often simple and memorable.
- help keep customers loyal.
- must be regularly updated to keep with trends.
