A design refers to visual features such as shape, configuration, colours, pattern or ornament that give an article or non-physical product its appearance.
A registered design protects the external appearance of an article or non-physical product and gives the owner the right to control the use of the registered design.
For the strongest protection, file before publicly disclosing or marketing the design. Singapore provides a 12-month grace period for certain qualifying disclosures, but overseas design rights may still be lost if disclosure occurs before filing. If priority is claimed from an earlier qualifying application, the Singapore application should generally be filed within 6 months.
Focuses on the visual appearance of the design rather than how the product works.
Early filing helps preserve novelty before launch, promotion or other public disclosure.
A registered design can be licensed, assigned, sold or used as a valuable business asset.
A registered design can become a valuable asset that may be bought, sold, transferred or licensed.
Registration places the design on the public register, making it easier for potential licensees, investors, business partners and customers to identify the protected design.
Registration provides stronger protection and legal action options if someone copies the design.
The design can increase market awareness and strengthen competitiveness for the product.
The 8th edition of the International Design Classification, issued by the World Intellectual Property Organization, classifies designs into 32 classes and 223 sub-classes.
Use a clean checklist format so visitors can prepare materials before contacting the team.
A short descriptive title, not trade names, for the article or articles.
Line drawings or pictures showing different views, including perspective, front, back, left, right, top and bottom views.
A brief statement focusing on non-functional and visual features of the design.
A copy of the Certificate of Incorporation, Business Registration Certificate or similar document showing the applicant name and address.
A priority document when priority is claimed. The document can be filed within 3 months after the filing date of the application.
Power of Attorney letter as required by some countries or regions.
