Glossary · Intellectual Property
Design Registration
Registration of the visual design of an article (shape, configuration, pattern, ornament) that appeals to the eye, under the Designs Act, 2000.
Design registration in India is handled by the Patent Office (Design Wing) and protects the aesthetic appearance of an article. The design must be new and original, not dictated by function, and not be a scandalous or obscene subject. Term: 10 years from the date of application, extendable by 5 years. Functional features cannot be registered as designs — only visual aesthetics. India follows the Locarno Classification (32 classes) for design registration.
Examples
A furniture company registers the unique design of a chair under Class 6 (furnishing) to prevent competitors from copying the same shape.