WHAT IS INDUSTRIAL DESIGN?
- Industrial design refers to the visual features of a product such as its shape, configuration, pattern, or ornamentation that gives it a distinctive and appealing appearance.
- It can be two-dimensional (like patterns or graphics) or three-dimensional (like the shape or form of a product). Protection ensures that these unique visual elements, when applied to a product, make it stand out in the market and attract customers.
WHAT KIND OF PRODUCTS CAN BE PROTECTED BY INDUSTRIAL DESIGN?
- Almost any product with a unique appearance can be protected, from furniture, packaging, jewelry, textiles, gadgets, to everyday household items.
CAN ONE OR MORE INDUSTRIAL DESIGNS BE INCLUDED IN AN APPLICATION?
Yes, provided the Industrial designs relate to the same class of product as classified under the Locarno Classification, or to the same set of products. A set of product means 2 or more products of the same or similar design and the same general character that are usually sold together or intended to be used together, for example a tea set.
HOW LONG DOES A REGISTERED INDUSTRIAL DESIGN PROTECTION LAST?
- A registered industrial design is protected for a period of 5 years beginning from the filing date and can be renewed for a further period of 10 years upon payment of a renewal fee, which is payable every 5 years.
- Registration gives you the legal right to prevent others from making, selling, or importing products with the same design.
THE IMPORTANCE OF PROTECTING YOUR INDUSTRIAL DESIGN?
- Stronger market position – stand out from competitors locally and internationally with unique, protected designs.
- Brand value and trust – Enhance customer confidence and recognition through exclusive, distinctive designs.
- Legal protection – prevent others from copying, imitating, or using your design without permission.
- Business opportunities – create potential for licensing, franchising, or selling your design
- Investment appeal – increase your attractiveness to investors and business partners.
WHAT ARE THE CRITERIA FOR REGISTERING AN INDUSTRIAL DESIGN?
- The design must be Novelty (new)
- Has not been registered, published or sold in Brunei Darussalam
- The design must apply to an article by an industrial process capable of being made or reproduced, not just created as a one-off artwork.
HOW DO I KNOW IF MY DESIGN IS NEW AND ORIGINAL?
A design is considered new if it has not been publicly disclosed anywhere in the world before your application. Therefore, BruIPO recommends:
- Conduct a search in existing design database.
- Keeping detailed records of your creation process.