Industrial Designs
What is an industrial design?
An industrial design is the appearance of a product that makes it unique and distinguishes it from other similar products. It includes shape, contour, color, texture, or a combination of these elements. Unlike patents, which protect technical solutions, industrial designs protect aesthetics and visual appeal.
For example, a company creates a unique bottle shape for water. Other manufacturers cannot copy this shape if it is registered as an industrial design.
Why industrial designs are important
- Market distinction – helps consumers recognize your product.
- Customer attraction – appealing designs increase demand.
- Protection from copying – prevents competitors from copying.
- Commercialization – designs can be licensed or sold.
What can be protected
- Product shape – contours, silhouette
- Surface and texture – patterns, reliefs
- Colors and combinations – unique schemes
- Combination of elements – shape + texture + color together
Not protected: purely functional elements that serve only a technical purpose.
How to register
- Prepare application – description and images (photos or drawings)
- Novelty check – verify no similar registered design exists
- Examination and registration – owner gets legal protection
Duration
Protection usually lasts 5 to 25 years, depending on the country, with regular maintenance fees.
Examples
- Coca-Cola bottles – unique bottle shape
- IKEA furniture – combination of shape, color, texture
- Electronic devices – smartphone or laptop casing
Summary
Industrial designs are a practical way to protect the visual appearance of products and increase their market value.