What an industrial design protects
An industrial design protects the outward appearance of a product: its shape, configuration, lines, contours, colours or ornamentation. It does not protect how the product works, which is the domain of patents, but it can be the most effective protection for products whose commercial value lies in how they look.
Furniture, packaging, consumer electronics, jewellery, lighting, textiles, automotive parts and many other products benefit from design protection, particularly in markets where imitations appear quickly.
Our design services
- Assessment of whether a design is suitable for registration
- Preparation of representations and drawings that meet filing requirements
- Filing and prosecution of industrial design applications in Iran
- Responses to objections raised during examination
- Renewal of registrations and management of deadlines
- Recordal of assignments and licences
Newness matters
As a general rule, a design must be new to be registered. Public disclosure of the design before filing, including at trade fairs, online or in marketing materials, can create difficulties. We recommend speaking with us before a product is launched in any market where Iranian protection may later be needed.
Combining protection
The strongest position often combines several rights. A product may be protected by a design registration for its appearance, a patent for its technical function and a trademark for its brand. We look at your product as a whole and recommend the combination that gives the most practical protection.
Quality of the representations
The scope of a design registration is defined by the images filed. Clear, consistent views that show exactly the features you want to protect are essential. We review your drawings or photographs and advise on the views needed before filing.
Frequently asked questions
Is design registration the same as copyright?
No. A registered design is a separate right obtained by filing with the registry. It provides a clear, registered title that is generally easier to enforce than unregistered rights.
Can I register several variations of a design?
Variations can often be protected, but how they are filed affects scope and cost. We advise on the most efficient approach for your product range.