In recent years, with the rapid development of the cross-border e-commerce industry, patent protection has become one of the minefields that all cross-border e-commerce partners are extremely likely to touch (the most problematic areas are the European and American markets, where the intellectual property system is already very complete, and the infringement risks faced by sellers are relatively high). Because many lawless elements are greedy for short-term profits, the actual sale of infringing products also occurs in the market, and the main reason for this infringement is that some merchants do not have a comprehensive understanding of the relevant laws. Therefore, at this stage, it has become a consensus for cross-border e-commerce companies to apply for relevant patents for products for intellectual property protection (especially appearance patents) before exporting products. In this regard, the editor would like to briefly popularize the application process and materials for appearance patents in the United States to help everyone take fewer detours on the road of patent application.
The preparation materials and application process required for appearance patent applications in the United States are similar to those for domestic patent applications, and are not too complicated. First of all, in terms of preparation materials, the materials generally required are:
① Appearance design pictures or photos: three-dimensional views and six-sided views. The size of the six views must be consistent, and reference views should be provided when necessary;
② The name, address, zip code, ID card or passport of the applicant;
③ Statement of the designer;
④ Priority certificate (it is also possible that the document is not needed). The examination and authorization time of the patent is generally between 1-2 years, and the validity period is 15 years from the date of patent authorization.
In terms of the process of applying for a patent for appearance in the United States, it generally takes 10 steps:
The first step is to search whether the patent can be checked;
The second step is to sign a confidentiality agreement;
The third step is to organize the technical briefing book;
The fourth step is to sign an agency agreement;
The fifth step is to write the application materials and confirm them;
The sixth step is to submit for acceptance;
The seventh step is patent review;
The eighth step is to pay the patent authorization fee;
The ninth step is to receive the certificate;
The tenth step is annual fee monitoring.
After completing the 10 steps mentioned above, you can own the appearance patent of your own product in the United States. Isn’t it simple?