Design registration
A design refers to a appearance of a particular product which qualifies as original and different from any other designs created. Design registration gives ownership control on the design of the product and also gives the creator the right to take legal action against infringement, deterring others from potential infringement. It will also give the design owner the right to freely import and export, publisise, offer and use any products to which the design has been applied. Registration will protect the design itself but will not protect the idea/principle behind the design.
On registering your design, you must apply to the appropriate body, depending on where you want your design registration to be in effect. This will usually be the patent office of that country. For Irish design registrations, contact www.patentsoffice.ie. As there is no international design registration you will need to apply to each country's national body separately. The registration is effective from date of application given that registration will be granted on the particular design. If you wish to protect your design within the countries of the European Union, you should apply to Office of Harmonisation in the Internal Market (OHIM).
Other ways to potect your IP include;
