Why Perform a Design Search?
Customers often buy with their eyes first. If the visual appearance of your product is already protected by someone else, a new product launch can quickly turn into a legal issue. A design search helps you confirm whether your product’s visual features, shape, pattern, or aesthetic is truly unique. In today’s competitive market, even small similarities can lead to legal disputes or refusal of design registration. By conducting a design search early, you avoid unintentional copying, reduce risks, and ensure your design stands out.
What Is a Design Search?
A design search is a focused review of existing registered designs and design patents to see how closely they resemble your product’s appearance. It helps identify similar shapes, patterns, or visual features already in the market, ensuring your design is distinctive enough for protection and commercial use.
Benefit of a Design Search:
- Helps ensure your design is not too similar to existing products, reducing the risk of rejection or objections during registration.
- Gives you a clear picture of competing designs so you can refine and differentiate your product’s appearance effectively.
- Unique visual identity helps your product stand out, attract customers, and build a recognizable brand presence.