IP Processes
From idea to protection, our seamless and transparent processes ensure your IP assets are secure and strategically positioned.
Patent Filing Process
11Patentability
Search
- A comprehensive prior art search is conducted to assess whether the invention meets patentability criteria of novelty and inventive step.
- Existing patents and publications are evaluated to determine potential obstacles before proceeding with a patent application.
- Search results are used to refine the invention and strengthen the patent application strategy.
22Priority Patent Application
Drafting and Filing
- A detailed and well-structured patent application that clearly defines the invention, including claims, description, and drawings is drafted.
- The priority application is filed in a national patent office (e.g., USPTO, ILPO), establishing an official filing date (priority date).
- This priority date provides a 12-month window for filing international applications while securing early protection.
33International Patent
Application Filing
- If global protection is desired, a Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) application should be filed within 12 months of the priority filing.
- The PCT process provides an initial examination and allows applicants to defer costly national filings while assessing commercial viability.
- Alternatively, direct Paris Convention filings can be made in specific countries of interest.
44National Phase Filing
- After the PCT international phase (30-31 months from the priority date), patent applications must be entered into national or regional patent offices where protection is sought.
- National patent offices conduct individual examinations, requiring translations, local representation, and official fees.
- Strategic selection of jurisdictions helps balance costs and market potential.
55Patent Application
Examination
- Once in the national phase, the patent office conducts a formal and substantive examination of the application.
- The examiner assesses the invention's novelty, inventive step, and industrial applicability based on prior art.
- Office actions may be issued, requiring responses, amendments, or arguments to overcome objections.
- Strategic prosecution ensures a strong and enforceable patent.
66Patent
Issuance
- If all requirements are met, the patent office grants the patent, providing the applicant with exclusive rights.
- Maintenance fees must be paid periodically to keep the patent in force.
- Once granted, the patent can be commercialized, licensed, or enforced against infringers.
Trademarks Filing Process
11Trademark Search Determine Eligibility
- A search is conducted to identify existing trademarks that may conflict with the proposed mark.
- This step helps assess registrability and avoid potential legal issues.
22Prepare the Application File the Application
- The trademark application is prepared, including details about the mark, goods/services, and ownership.
- The application is then filed with the appropriate trademark office.
33Examination Publication for Opposition Registration
- The trademark office examines the application for compliance and potential conflicts.
- If accepted, the mark is published for opposition. If no objections arise, the mark proceeds to registration.
44Post-Registration Maintenance
- To maintain rights, trademark owners must file periodic maintenance documents and continue using the mark in commerce.
- Failure to do so may result in cancellation.
Design Filing Process
11Design Search Ensure Eligibility
- A search is performed to identify existing designs that may conflict with the proposed design.
- This helps determine eligibility and reduce the risk of rejection.
22Prepare the Application File the Application
- The design application is prepared, including drawings or images and a description.
- It is then filed with the relevant design office to establish a filing date.
33Examination Publication & Opposition Period Registration
- The design office examines the application for formal and substantive compliance.
- If accepted, it is published for opposition.
- If unopposed, the design proceeds to registration.
44Post-Registration Maintenance & Renewal
- Design rights are time-limited and require periodic renewals to remain in force.
- Maintenance ensures continued protection and enforceability.