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Design Patent Protection for Computer Generated Icons and Graphical User Interfaces

Intellectual Property Law Blog

Recent patent cases have made it more difficult to obtain utility patent protection for some of the functional aspects of computer software. Strategic use of design patents can be an important part of an overall patent strategy. Strategic use of design patents can be an important part of an overall patent strategy.

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Defending Design Patents

Patently-O

In our new paper, The Truth About Design Patents , we debunk three widely held—but incorrect—views about U.S. design patents. Taken together, these myths paint a grim picture of design patents: Half of all design patent applications are rejected. Acquiring Design Patents.

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Design Patent: Invalid as Unduly Functional

Patently-O

Evo’s design patent claims an “ ornamental design for a foldable bag ” as shown in the figures above. district court held the patent invalid as both functional and obvious; and also not infringed. Functionality : Design patents focus on ornamentality rather than utility. by Dennis Crouch.

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Federal Circuit Further Eases Path for Obtaining Design Patents

Patently-O

This is an important design patent decision that substantially narrows the scope of prior art available for anticipation rejections in design patent cases. The result is that it should become easier to obtain design patent protection. In re Surgisil, LLP , — 4th — ( Fed.

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Recent Trends in Article of Manufacture of Design Patent Claims: GUIs Remain King

JD Supra Law

This article supplements our previous post with updated 2021 data. design patents continue to grow in popularity. Although 2021 saw a slight downtick in the number of issued design patents compared to the previous two years—most likely caused by lower filings during the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic—the number of U.S.

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“Comparison Prior Art” Must Be Tied to the Same Article of Manufacture as That Claimed

Intellectual Property Law Blog

15, 2023) , the Federal Circuit vacated a jury verdict of non-infringement in a design-patent infringement action filed by Columbia Sportswear against Seirus Innovative Accessories. Design Patent No. Thus, the prior-art design must be applied to the article of manufacture identified in the claim.

Art 162
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USPTO Adapts to CAFC’s New Guidelines: What Design Patent Examiners Need to Know

Patently-O

GM decision, the USPTO issued a memorandum to its examiners providing updated guidance and examination instructions in light of the court’s overturning of the long-standing Rosen-Durling test for determining obviousness of design patents. There is no similarity threshold requirement.