Embodiment in a Product – Scope of Protection of a Part

The scope of protection of a part in a product can be limited by the overall appearance of the larger product. For example, a part may not be protected if it is only visible when the product is disassembled. Additionally, methods and processes are not considered industrial designs and cannot be protected.

Questions

• What is the scope of protection of a part in a product?
• How can the scope of protection be limited?
• What are the limitations on the protection of methods and processes?

Answers

• The scope of protection of a part in a product is limited by the overall appearance of the larger product.
• The scope of protection can be limited by making the protection dependent on the overall appearance of the larger product.
• Methods and processes are not considered industrial designs and cannot be protected.