Key-Proposed-Changes-to-the-Indonesias-Patent-Law-affa

Key Proposed Changes to the Indonesia’s Patent Law

Intellectual Property

Key Proposed Changes to the Indonesia’s Patent Law Science and technology are essential in increasing competitiveness and the national economy. Therefore, Indonesia must create Human Resources that are innovative and able to adapt to developments in global phenomena, as well as have a strong understanding of Intellectual Property (IP), especially in the field of Patents.   Based on research results from the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Patent applications worldwide continue to increase yearly. This shows that the world community needs protection for its innovative works, including Indonesia, which is very likely to produce many innovations and create inventions that society needs by encouraging domestic innovation to align with economic growth.   Patent rights impact the economy and are closely related to technological development and mastery. For every innovative product produced, there will continuously be increased economic value. Inventors always carried out research and studies so that their technology was needed and could be commercialized. If the Patent is successful in attracting market interest, it will, of course, allow other parties to use the invention they own. This is where the public can exploit the Patent through a Patent License. Currently, patent applications in Indonesia are still dominated by applicants from abroad. Therefore, the Directorate General of Intellectual Property (DGIP) strives to improve services to the public by conducting outreach and assisting in the preparation of Patent specifications (Patent Drafting). The hope is that Patents in Indonesia have a more critical role in improving the economy and social welfare related to innovation, research results, technological inventions, and trade in goods and services.   Base of Change 1. Philosophical Basis The Patent Law must provide fair protection not only for the interests of society but also for the global economy/ Patent Holders, whether from Indonesia or outside Indonesia and follow generally accepted standards based on international agreements. 2. Sociological Basis The public’s need for increased and more accessible services in the Patent regime to respond to the speed of global development and innovation in society means there is a need to organize the Patent system. 3. Juridical Basis Several provisions in the Patent Law need to be adjusted to international provisions through policies that are responsive to global development needs while still prioritizing the social needs of society.   Purposed of Amendments Increase protection of Intellectual Property Rights of traded products. Guarantee procedures for implementing Intellectual Property Rights that do not hamper trading activities. Develop regulatory principles and international cooperation mechanisms to handle trade in goods resulting from counterfeiting or piracy of Intellectual Property Rights.   Problematic Issues 1. National Innovation Issues Simple Patent/ Utility Model (Article 23) Changes were made by speeding up the Patent acquisition process from 12 months to 6 months to encourage the acceleration of domestic production and economic growth. Computer Applications (Article 4 letter d) Inventions implemented on computers are grouped into system, method, and use categories under the expanded definition of inventions carried out to encourage economic growth based on 4.0 and 5.0. For the record, since 2016, Patent Applications related to inventions implemented on computers have increased to 30-40% per year of all total patent applications. Second Use & Discovery (Article 4 letter f) Regarding Second Use and Discovery, the changes were made because they hinder innovation in the pharmaceutical sector, especially to encourage the growth and innovation of traditional medicines. Grace Period (Article 6) The Grace Period was changed by extending it from 6 to 12 months to allow all Inventors in Indonesia to register a Patent.   2. Issues of Harmonization of International Regulations Use of Products or Processes in Indonesia (Article 20 & Article 20A) Regarding the implementation of a Patent by the Patent Holder, changes are made by adding to recognize the implementation of imports and licensing as the implementation of the Patent by the Patent Holder as mandated by Article 20.   3. Patent Servicing Issues by the DGIP Changes to Applicant Data (Article 25) The changes were made because the Patent Law, which relates to administrative requirements, still needs to accommodate the title of the invention in the identity content of the Patent application.The title of the invention is essential in a Patent Application, paired with the application number for accurate data validity. Genetic Resources (Article 26) For Genetic Resources and/or Traditional Knowledge, changes have been made to simplify the Patent process by simply making a “declaration” letter. Acceleration of Substantive Examinations (Article 55A) Changes are made so that the application timeline is expected to be faster and more efficient, considering that in practice, Patent Application documents become “sleeping documents” during the waiting process for 18 (eighteen) months; in this way, services can be improved. Substantive Re-Examination (Article 68 and Article 70) The changes were made to overcome cases that occurred because there were still many Applicants who did not understand the Patent Application system and procedures in Indonesia, as well as poor communication between Patent Applicants and Patent Examiners, as well as to provide more opportunities for Applicants who wanted to review the decisions given. Patent Annuity/ Renewal (Article 112, 126, 127, 128, & 128A) Changes were made in anticipation of resolving problems that arise in the practice of fulfilling renewal/ annuity payments.   Direction of Amendments 1. Encouraging national innovation by increasing Intellectual Property Registration Opening opportunities to obtain Patent Rights for all fields of technology Cost reduction for SMEs 2. Encouraging national innovation by increasing Intellectual Property Registration Adapting Regulations to International Law Protecting investors by protecting their technology. 3. Improved services by simplifying regulations Simplifying the Patent acquisition process Improve automation systems   Should you have questions or need other information regarding patent registration and protection in Indonesia and abroad, please get in touch with us via [email protected]. Source: DGIP – Urgency of Changes to Law No. 13 of 2016 concerning Patents to Support the Economy

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Comprehensive Trademark Protection: Post-Registration Best Practices

Intellectual Property

Comprehensive Trademark Protection: Post-Registration Best Practices Even though it has offensive and defensive functions, owning a Trademark Certificate does not necessarily prevent your Trademark from being counterfeited. Moreover, if you are a market leader, there will always be irresponsible parties who want to take advantage of profits badly.   According to data from the Indonesian Anti-Counterfeiting Society (MIAP), losses suffered by producers in 2020 from counterfeit goods have reached IDR 290 trillion. Most counterfeiting comes from software and cosmetic products, resulting in state tax losses of up to hundreds of billions of Rupiah. This high rate of counterfeiting is expected in developing countries because of the “impulsive consumerism” nature of the people who want to own branded goods but are not supported by an adequate budget. And then, buying fake goods is an option, and the important thing is that they are similar and can be worn stylishly.   With a registered Trademark, you can take legal enforcement efforts by issuing a direct warning or sending a legal notice with the help of a trusted Trademark Consultant. Suppose there is still no response from the violator. In that case, you can escalate it to the police for further efforts by including initial evidence (where the counterfeit product was sold and who the reported party is). The police will then ask for an expert opinion (Trademark Examiner from Trademark Office/ DGIP). After a follow-up from the expert, the action can be continued with the prosecution, namely confiscation, as well as criminal sanctions of fines and/or imprisonment of 4-5 years. However, most of these Trademark Infringement cases can be resolved outside court, where the guilty party pays compensation and withdraws the product from the market.   However, you must ensure that you have protected your Trademark by carrying out the following comprehensive protection:   1. Apply Registration in All Relevant Classes If you have registered your coffee shop in the restaurant class and you also sell coffee drinks or coffee beans that can be purchased separately, you must also register your Trademark in the class that can protect these products. Because you want to avoid that in the future, there will be other parties who are famous for selling coffee drink products that should only be purchased at your coffee shop, right?   2. Register Your Logo as a Trademark If your business has a logo that can make it more unique and well-known in the market, then there is no need to delay its registration as a Trademark. If necessary, also register it with the colors you use so you can carry out subsequent protection strategies.   3. Increase Your Consumer Awareness In the era of social media, marketing your products and making consumers aware of your product’s presence has become more accessible. For this reason, you can carry out a series of education. Start by explaining what your logo looks like and its meaning, including the consequences if someone fakes it and branding efforts by telling how your products and/or services prioritize quality and can only be obtained through official/specific distribution channels. In this way, consumers will buy the original one for the sake of quality rather than buying a fake one, which will cause many future losses.   Should you have questions or need other information regarding Trademark registration in Indonesia and abroad, please get in touch with us via [email protected] Source: IP Talks Directorate General Intellectual Property

8-Proposed-Changes-in-the-Amendment-of-the-Industrial-Design-Law-in-Indonesia-affa-global

8 Proposed Changes in the Amendment of the Industrial Design Law in Indonesia

Intellectual Property

8 Proposed Changes in the Amendment of the Industrial Design Law in Indonesia Indonesian awareness of the importance of protecting Industrial Design has continued to increase in the last five years. This can be seen from the application of Industrial Design registrations, which continues to increase significantly. From 2,319 applications in 2017, it grew to 2,835 in 2019, jumped again to 2,957 in 2021, and peaked in 2022 with 3,533 applications.   However, due to the evolution in the world of business and creativity, it is necessary to make changes to the Law of the Republic of Indonesia Number 31 of 2000 concerning Industrial Design (Industrial Design Law) so that its protection can be better and more relevant with the current business practices. In addition, these proposed changes will align with international developments in Industrial Design and create a climate that further encourages creation and innovation as part of the Intellectual Property regimes. For this reason, DGIP proposes 8 (eight) main changes as follows:   1. Definition (Article 1) Currently, Article 1 of the Industrial Design Law states that Industrial Design is the creation of a form of configuration, or composition of lines or colors, or lines and colors, or a combination thereof in three-dimensional or two-dimensional form which gives an aesthetic impression and can be realized in a pattern, three-dimensional or two-dimensional and can be used to produce a product, industrial commodity or handicraft. However, in its development, a more precise and firmer definition is needed that the object protected through Industrial Design Rights is the “outer appearance of the product,” which has an “aesthetic impression” that can be protected in whole or in part of its features, which can be two-dimensional and/or three-dimensional.   2. Protection System (Article 2) Article 2 of the Industrial Design Law currently regulates that Industrial Design will only receive protection after the registration process; however, in the new bill, protection is also possible without going through the registration process simply by recording it. With details of the changes as follows: Registration System: Applies to Industrial Design, which has a relatively long design cycle; Protection period: 5 (five) years from the date of receipt; It can be extended 2 (two) times every 5 (five) years by paying fees by Article 16 of the Industrial Design Law. Recordation System: Applies to Industrial Designs that have relatively short lifecycles in design or commercial. For example, textile products comply with the provisions of Article 25 of Trade Related Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) agreed upon by member countries of the World Trade Organization (WTO). Protection Period: 3 (three) years from the first publication date, as regulated in Article 17 of the Industrial Design Law.  It can be switched into a registration system by 12 (twelve) months from the date it was first published, following the protection provisions such as the Registration System regulated in Article 5 (five) of the Industrial Design Law.   3. Non-Registrable Designs Currently, the rules for non-registrable Industrial Designs are regulated in Article 4 (four) of Industrial Designs, which states that rights cannot be provided if the Industrial Designs conflict with applicable laws and regulations, public order, religion, or morality. However, more rule was added in the new Bill, and the article shifted to Article 6 (six).   Non-Registered Industrial Design if it meets one of the following criteria: Does not have an aesthetic impression; Features of the design are created for the purpose of  technical function only; Folklore or traditional cultural expression that is not further developed or modified; Contrary to the provisions of laws and regulations, public order, religion and/or morality; Filed by an applicant who has bad intentions.   4. Landlord Liability/ Obligations for Shopping Center Management To create a more conducive environment and uphold the enforcement of Industrial Design Rights, shopping center management should not allow the sale and/or duplication of goods that infringe Industrial Design Rights in their shopping center. However, it remains to be seen if the provision also applies to e-commerce sites.   5. Exercise of Industrial Design Rights by the Government The Indonesian Government can exercise Industrial Design Rights based on national defense and security interests. Therefore, regulations that currently do not exist in the Industrial Design Law were made to safeguard strategic interests so that the rights remain sovereign and under the control of the Indonesian Government. So the following rules were billed: Suppose the Government intends to exercise an Industrial Design Right, which is vital for the defense and security of the State. In that case, it must first notify the Industrial Design Right Holder in writing. The Government’s decision that an Industrial Design Right will be exercised solely by the Government is final. The Government’s exercise of Industrial Design Rights is carried out by providing reasonable compensation to Industrial Design Rights Holders.   6. Application from International Registration The Hague Agreement, followed by the Geneva Act of 2 July 1999, regulates the mechanism for registering Industrial Designs in several countries through a single application, filed in one language, with one set of fees with a system administrated by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). For this reason, the new bill has been prepared to accommodate ratification and examine the possibility of ratification.   7. Industrial Design Board of Appeal The proposed change will also regulate the presence of the Industrial Design Board of Appeal, with the following considerations: Accommodate the Applicant’s approval of the approval decision and cancellation of rights, which will be handled by the Industrial Design Appeal Commission, whose decisions are independent. Provide convenience for the public or third parties who approve a registered Industrial Design to apply for a permit through the Appeals Commission and can submit an appeal to the Commercial Court. This can also reduce the burden on the field in handling Industrial Design Rights cases. Cancellations through the Appeals Commission have been implemented in countries such as Japan, Australia, and the European Union. Furthermore, an Appeal can be submitted against: Rejection of the application by the…

Can-I-Trademark-My-Face-in-Indonesia

Can I Trademark My Face in Indonesia?

Intellectual Property, Trademark

Can I Trademark My Face in Indonesia? One of the unique things we have as a human is our different faces. Starting from the shape of our eyes, nose, lips, cheekbones, skin color, mustache, and eyebrows, it makes our face different and has its charm. Considering that being distinctive is also one of the requirements for Trademark registration. It is not uncommon for us, as well as other world citizens, to think about registering our face as a Trademark. But can it be registered? Any Trademarks that feature famous faces already come up in your mind? This article will explain.   Trademark Definition According to Article 1 of Law of the Republic of Indonesia Number 20 of 2016 concerning Trademarks and Geographical Indications (Trademarks & Geographical Indications Law), a Trademark is a sign that can be displayed graphically in the form of an image, logo, name, word, letter, number, color arrangement, in the shape of 2 (two) dimensions and/or 3 (three) dimensions, sound, hologram, or a combination of 2 (two) or more of these elements to differentiate goods and/or services produced by individuals or legal entities in trading activities of goods and/or services.   Because images and photographs include visual graphics, the appearance of a face as a Trademark can be registered in Indonesia as long as it does not conflict with what is stated in Article 21 of the Trademark & Geographical Indications Law, namely that it has not been registered or applied for by another party and is not the same or resembles a photo of a famous person, except with the written consent of the entitled person.   Famous Trademarks with Face The rules are different abroad, such as in the United States and the European Union, where there is a strict prohibition on registering faces as trademarks. Recently, in the European Union, registering a Trademark with the picture of a famous model from the Netherlands, Puck Schrover, was rejected. Although the face is well known in the fashion industry, European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) examiners considered that the uniqueness of the face alone needed to be more distinctive as a Trademark because it could be a photographic representation of any woman.   However, if the face is present as an illustration, such as Colonel Sanders for the KFC or the face of a woman with long hair and “tentacles” for the Starbucks Coffee, it is considered unique and can be registered.   Meanwhile, in Indonesia, we know several registered Trademarks with faces and photos of people, such as Nyonya Meneer herbal drink (registration date: IDM000766048), Ayam Goreng Suharti (IDM000868681), Mbok Sarun fried chicken (IDM000828965), and Mbok Lindu gudeg (traditional Javanese cuisine, IDM001010038) Likewise, several service marks for alternative medicine use photos of their owners.   Face and Corporate Image In conclusion, using a face or passport picture is possible and legal if used as a Trademark in Indonesia. But are you ready to commit lifelong by putting your face on every product and/or service you have?   Because then, you must maintain your behavior and always be in the best image so the Trademark that reflects your professionalism is not disturbed. Because it is possible once you get into trouble, the lousy impact will also damage your Trademark.   However, if you are ready, take action as soon as possible to apply for the registration because the first-to-file principle applies in Indonesia. Don’t let your already phenomenal business, which resembles your image, be registered first by other irresponsible parties.   Should you have any questions or need more information regarding registering your face as a Trademark in Indonesia or abroad, please contact us via [email protected]. Sources: Law Number 20 of 2016 concerning Trademarks and Geographical Indications Lexology  

The-Minimum-Requirements-for-Industrial-Design-Registration-in-Indonesia-affa-global

The Minimum Requirements for Industrial Design Registration in Indonesia

Intellectual Property

The Minimum Requirements for Industrial Design Registration in Indonesia Having your Industrial Design registered and protected means you are ready to advance your product to the next stage. Because the exemplary Industrial Design plays a vital role in targeting specific market segments, creating new market niches, and strengthening the company’s branding and positioning.   Industrial Design in Indonesia: A Brief Overview Industrial Design refers to an article’s ornamental or aesthetic aspect, encompassing its visual appearance and features. It is not concerned with the technical or functional aspects of the product. In Indonesia, Industrial Design protection is governed by Law No. 31 of 2000 concerning Industrial Designs. This legal framework provides creators with the means to protect their original designs from unauthorized use or reproduction.   In previous articles, we have explained the importance of novelty in Industrial Design. This time, the comprehensive guide continues with the minimum requirements, including what must be prepared to apply for Industrial Design Registration.   Minimum Application Requirements 1. Fill out the Application Form Independently or Through a Registered Intellectual Property Consultant You can submit this filling process online on the Directorate General of Intellectual Property (DGIP) portal or through a reliable, experienced Intellectual Property Consultant. Using a Consultant will give you professional advice early on the chances of your registration application being accepted. This way, the application fee you pay will not be in vain. In addition to that, you don’t need to worry about completing the required documents.   To fill out the Application Form, you must include the following data: Types of Industrial Design: When applying, you must determine what Industrial Design you wish to register among the following 4 (four) options: 1. One Design What is meant by One Design is the overall product design, for example, a chair design or a food packaging design.   2. Set Design This category is selected if your design includes several products at once—for example, a set of tables and chairs or speakers and subwoofer.   3. Divisional/Partial Design This category is chosen if your design is only part of a pre-existing product. For example, the sole part of the shoes you have previously registered or the frame part that surrounds the glass of a pair of glasses.   4. Divisional/Partial Set Design As the name suggests, this category is selected if the design you are registering is only part of several products—for example, just the outer appearance of the speaker tubes of a set of loudspeakers.   Applicant Information Contains the full name, nationality, detailed address consisting of country, province, city/district, sub-district, postal code, email, and telephone number of the Applicant.   Designer Information If the data is not the same as the Applicant, then the Designer data must be filled in with full name, nationality, and country. Designer Data can also contain more than one Designer.   Consultant Information If you use a Consultant, the data required is the Consultant’s full name and address, as well as email and telephone number.   Desain Information This data must include the following information: 1. Title of Industrial Design The general name of the product in Indonesian, without including the brand or type of item. For example, for bottle products, just write “bottle,” without adding “- 30 cm plastic”.   2. Description This section is the place to explain the product’s uses, product characteristics, and product features that you want to protect.   3. Claim In this section, you can choose the registered design, which is the complete product shape (for example, a car or shoes), configuration (for example, a car dashboard), line composition (for example, a pattern installed on a car seat), color composition (for example a colored batik design), or a combination thereof.   4. Locarno CLassification Locarno here refers to the “Locarno Agreement,” an international agreement in the field of Industrial Design that determines international classification based on a list of class and sub-class indications, as well as explanatory notes intended solely for administrative purposes of Industrial Design registration. Locarno consists of 32 class titles arranged sequentially, and class numbers are assigned according to the type, nature, or function of the goods indicated according to the relevant class title. You can choose the category according to your product type.   Priority Data This data must be filled in if the applicant comes from outside Indonesia. The information required is country of origin, priority number, priority date, and additional notes (if any).   2. Providing Figures and Descriptions The figures can be in a form of Technical Drawing, Computer Rendered Image, or Photo with the following appearance: Views: Perspective View Top view Bottom View Front look Back view Left Side View Right-side view Application Documents (administrative): Power of Attorney (if using a Consultant) Industrial Design Ownership Letter Assignment Document of Industrial Design Rights from Designer to Applicant A required letter if the Designer is not the same as the Applicant. Therefore, this letter must contain the following information: Assignor = Designer; Assignee = Industrial Design Owner/Applicant; Designers are individuals, one or more than one; The owner is an individual or a legal entity; Legal entities are represented by parties who are responsible for representing them, as evidenced by a position decree or similar. Priority Document along with its translation into Indonesian (must be sworn translated)   3. Pay the Application Fee Once all the documents are complete, you will receive detailed fees, and if payment has been made, it will continue with the Formality Examination, Publication, and Substantive Examination. All of these documents will be provided to you by us later on.   Furthermore, if no problems are found with the application or no existing design is found, DGIP will issue an Industrial Design Rights Certificate as proof of ownership of Industrial Design Rights. This protection certificate is valid for 10 (ten) years and cannot be extended, valid from the date the application was received, not from the time the certificate was issued.   Should you have other questions about the Industrial…

The-Impact-Of-Intellectual-Property-On-The-Quality-Of-Life-For-People-With-Disabilities-affa-global

The Impact of Intellectual Property on the Quality of Life for People with Disabilities

Intellectual Property

The Impact of Intellectual Property on the Quality of Life for People with Disabilities   The 2022* Asian Para Games, which ended yesterday in Hangzhou, China, showcased human civilization’s sportsmanship, high fighting spirit, and demonstrated the impact of Intellectual Property (IP) on the quality of life of people with disabilities in many ways. For example, the Games featured a wide range of patented assistive technologies used by athletes with disabilities to compete at the highest level. These patented assistive technologies included:   Running Prosthetics:  Losing a leg (or both) is not an obstacle for paralympic athletes to run; they no longer use prosthetic legs in the form of legs but unique legs in the form of carbon fiber plates, which are lighter and enable them to run like Olympic athletes. One of the Running Prosthetic manufacturers whose products are widely used is Ottobock, which currently has more than 1,800 patents.   Racing Wheelchairs: There are three sports where wheelchair use is permitted at the 2022 Asian Para Games: basketball, fencing, and tennis. Of course, they don’t compete with ordinary wheelchairs, but wheelchairs with innovative technology that makes them lighter but more robust, which allows them to act more quickly and safely.   Swim Fins: Swimming athletes who don’t have legs can use artificial fins made from silicon worn on their hands to swim faster and more efficiently.   Blindfolds: Because not all Paralympic athletes are entirely blind, for the competition to be fair, they are required to use unique cloth coverings, for example, when competing in athletics. These blindfolds are also made with an innovative design to be worn comfortably throughout the competition.   At the 2022 Asian Para Games, Indonesia achieved the highest achievement by reaching 6th place, under China, the Islamic Republic of Iran, Japan, the Republic of Korea, and India. The economic benefits obtained certainly do not only come to people with disabilities. The sporting event, which took place from October 22nd to 28th, 2023, generated billions of dollars in economic activity and created thousands of jobs from its implementation and innovative products protected by Intellectual Property.   Intellectual Property continues to play an essential role in improving the quality of life of people with disabilities in various ways, including: Encourage innovation in assistive technologies to help people with disabilities live more independent and fulfilling lives. For example, IP rights have been instrumental in developing technologies such as screen readers, speech-to-text software, and prosthetic limbs. Make assistive technologies more affordable and accessible to people with disabilities. For example, IP rights can establish licensing agreements allowing manufacturers to produce and sell assistive technologies at lower prices. Promote the inclusion of people with disabilities in the workplace and society. For example, IP rights can be used to protect the intellectual property of businesses that employ people with disabilities. This can help to create jobs for people with disabilities and reduce the stigma associated with disability.   Overall, the 2022 Asian Para Games were a powerful reminder of the positive impact that IP can have on the quality of life for people with disabilities. IP-protected assistive technologies can help people with disabilities live more independent and fulfilling lives, participate in the workplace and society, and achieve their full potential.    If you need more information about IP protection in Indonesia or abroad, please feel free to contact us via email at [email protected] Source: WIPO Magazines 2022 Asian Para Games   *) Dated 2022, as it originally marked the event scheduled for 2022, which was subsequently rescheduled to 2023 due to the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Amending-Patent-Claims-in-Indonesia-affa-global

Amending Patent Claims in Indonesia

Intellectual Property

Amending Patent Claims in Indonesia The Indonesian Patent Law allows Patent claims amendment at several stages from filing up to 3 months after the notice of grant has been issued by the Indonesian Patent Office under the Directorate General of Intellectual Property (DGIP). We herewith summarize under which circumstances the claim amendments are allowable in Indonesia.   Legal Basis The Law No. 13 year 2016 on Patents (hereinafter referred to as the “Patent Law”) regulates all aspects of patent protection in Indonesia, including the amendment of claims during various stages of the patent lifecycle. Article 39 of the Patent Law regulates the amendment of various natures. The rule of thumb when it comes to amendment is to ensure that it does not broaden the scope of protection initially applied for. Another rule of thumb to live by is that amendments are always possible provided that the application has not been granted by DGIP.   Article 67 and 69 of the Patent Law has made it possible for the post-grant amendment via the Patent Board of Appeal. However, the scope may be limited to the corrections on descriptions, claims, and/or figures once the application has been granted.    We herewith summarize the viability of claim amendments at various stages of the patent lifecycle for your perusal:   Amendments Prior to Publication The amendment of claims are possible, provided that the scope of protection is not broader than the originally filed claims.   Amendments After Publication The amendment of claims are possible, provided that the scope of protection is not broader than the originally filed claims.   Amendments Filed During the Substantive Examination Request The amendment of claims are possible, provided that the scope of protection is not broader than the originally filed claims.   Amendments after the Issuance of the Examination Results The amendments can still be filed after the examiner issues the examination results. From time to time, the examiner also suggests amendments for clarity’s sake. Please note that this is the last step when it comes to the pre-grant amendment and therefore the amendments shall be filed before the examiner issues the notice of grant/notice of rejection. Similar to the previous steps, the amendment is allowable provided that the the scope of protection is not broader than the originally filed claims.   Post-Grant Claim Amendments The post-grant amendment shall be filed by 3 months from the date of the Notice of Grant to the Patent Board of Appeal. The amendment is limited to several issues,  such as the corrections on descriptions, claims, and/or figures (may be due to the translation errors that were only picked up after the issuance of the Notice of Grant), limitation of the scope of claims, and clarifications on the content of the descriptions that are vague in nature.   The decision by the Patent Board of Appeal shall be issued within 6 months from the date when they start the examination.   Should you have any questions about patent amendments of various nature, please contact us at [email protected].

The-Intellectual-Property-Landscape-of-Tokusatsu-A-Comprehensive-Overview-affa

The Intellectual Property Landscape of Tokusatsu: A Comprehensive Overview

Intellectual Property

The Intellectual Property Landscape of Tokusatsu: A Comprehensive Overview Tokusatsu (特撮) is a Japanese term for live-action (non-anime) films or television programs that heavily use practical special effects. However, in its development, this genre in Japan is mainly used in movies or series with superhero themes. From giant monsters (Kaiju) such as Godzilla and Gamera, humans who turn into giant Ultraman, masked heroes riding a bike (Kamen Rider), colorful Super Sentai heroes, metallic heroes like Gavan, and many more.   In Japan, Tokusatsu has become an enormous industry. Every year, there are at least 3 (three) new series, 2 (films) on the big screen, and dozens of OTT content, with some toys that consistently record best-selling toy sales. The BANDAI toy company, as the Master Licensee of Kamen Rider, Ultraman, and Super Sentai, records revenues of around 60 billion Yen per year from the above Intellectual Properties. Of course, this is apart from the income from broadcasting rights received by Production Houses from broadcasting throughout the world.   Then, what other Intellectual Properties are related to Tokusatsu? Here is the explanation:   1.      Copyright Copyright is Intellectual Property in science, art, and literature resulting from inspiration, ability, thoughts, imagination, dexterity, skills, or expertise expressed in real form. According to the Copyright Law, the work is called Creation, and the creator is for sure called the Creator. Because one individual does not make Tokusatsu but is a joint work of several companies, the Creator can be the designer or production leader with the title of Producer, but these companies own the Copyright Holder. For example, the late Shotaro Ishinomori is recognized as the creator of the Kamen Rider series. Still, the Copyright Holder is listed as jointly owned by Ishimori Pro (Shotaro’s company), TV Asahi (the broadcasting TV station), and TOEI (the production house). Companies registered as Copyright Holders can also be seen from writing such as “(C) 2023 石森プロ・テレビ朝日・東映” in various published materials. Tokusatsu’s works related to Copyright are not only the series or films but also the songs, scripts, characterizations, illustrations, and books related to them. Copyright is protected as long as the creator is alive, plus 70 years after that, and cannot be extended. Protected here means that only the Copyright Holder has Economic Rights and Moral Rights, so that no other party may publish, duplicate, translate, adapt/arrange/transform, distribute, announce, communicate, or rent it without the permission of the Copyright Holder.   2.      Trademark Trademark in Tokusatsu is not the additional protection but the primary Intellectual Property, which makes the name unique, along with the logo, which makes it different from other works already on the market. In contrast to Copyright, which does not need to be registered, Trademarks must be registered to obtain protection. When applying for a Trademark, it is necessary to provide information about the appropriate protection classes according to its products and/or services. The number of classes registered for the Tokusatsu series, which airs throughout the year, usually reaches 22 classes, but for films, it is only around 6 (six) to a dozen. This significant difference in numbers is because broadcasts present throughout the year will also have more derivative products and services that can be produced, and all of them must be protected from the possibility of being exploited by other irresponsible parties. Some of the trademark classes that are usually registered for the Tokusatsu series that air throughout the year are classes 32 (beverages), 30 (processed food), 28 (toys), 25 (clothing), 16 (paper), and 9 (electronic equipment). Uniquely, the Trademark Registration process is open from the start of the application process, which can be accessed by the public via the Japanese Patent Information site, providing a means for fans to get a sneak peek at the name of the new Tokusatsu series, several months before the official announcement.   3.      Industrial Design In the world of Tokusatsu, there is a unique symbiotic mutualistic relationship between toy manufacturers and Copyright Holders. It is so unique that it is common knowledge that the Tokusatsu series is called a toy advertisement that airs throughout the year. As a toy manufacturer and shareholder of the Tokusatsu producers, BANDAI also provides other support, namely making character designs, so that they can be immediately ready to be produced in various kinds of toys liked by fans of various ages from abroad. The Industrial Designs for Tokusatsu toys registered by BANDAI can also be seen on the Japanese Patent Information site. Uniquely, even though the Industrial Design is registered and owned by BANDAI, all names involved in the creative process, including representatives from the production house, are still registered as the Designer. Registration of Industrial Designs for these toys is essential so that no other party makes imitation products. Because the practice of pirating Tokusatsu toys is usually done by producing the same toys but with different Trademarks. So by registering, even if these pirates escape the trap of Trademark violations, they will not escape Industrial Design violations.   4.      Patent Patents are one type of Intellectual Property that needs to be understood in Indonesia. It is as if the patent is Intellectual Property, even though it is only one type. Patents are Intellectual Property directly related to innovation and technology with novelty value. If associated with Tokusatsu, the patent protection could be in the thin but strong action figure joint technology, toy sensors that can be activated by finger movements or inserting a coded card, and BANDAI owns all the patents.   5.      Trade Secret The formula used to make a hero’s costume that is strong but light, to the right amount of chemicals to cause a significant but safe explosion, as well as other secret formulas, can be kept as Trade Secrets. These secrets make Tokusatsu a spectacle that continues to amaze fans, and all team members involved are bound by a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA).   6.      License Agreement After having a recorded Copyright…

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The Strategic Genius of Hiding Trademarks in Plain Sight: The Case of X Corp

Intellectual Property

The Strategic Genius of Hiding Trademarks in Plain Sight: The Case of X Corp In the world of business and Trademarks, it’s often a chess game with high stakes. While more giant corporations might seem to have an advantage in this intricate dance of Intellectual Property, a move is so strategic yet surprisingly underutilized. It involves the clever art of hiding your intentions while securing valuable Trademark rights. This game plan is akin to hiding in plain sight and is more common than you think. One of the most recent examples? Elon Musk’s Twitter-to-X transformation.   It’s been three months since the tech mogul announced his brainchild, Twitter, would undergo a radical name change to simply ‘X.’ Yet, the element of surprise was maintained impeccably. The company’s first “X” Trademark filings with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) only occurred on September 22. Intriguingly, these filings weren’t initiated within the United States but instead on the vibrant shores of Jamaica back in March.   So, what’s the secret sauce to this cunning move? Priority. The priority date is a vital element in the Trademark universe. By initially filing the “X” Trademarks in Jamaica, the masterminds at X Corp gained a crucial head start without giving away the existence of their filings. How did they do this? Through a globally binding treaty known as the Paris Convention.   The Paris Convention, inked by 178 countries, allows companies to take a strategic step. Suppose a Trademark is filed in one of these countries. In that case, it can be filed in any of the other signatory countries within six months while retaining the priority date of the original filing. The “X” Trademark’s Jamaican journey was pivotal in this context. Filed on March 24, 2023, it laid the foundation for the X Corp’s United States Trademark filings on September 22, 2023.   This move is nothing short of genius. While traditional “squatters” might have attempted to stake claims over the past two months, they now find themselves behind X Corp’s queue. In the complex world of intellectual property, the strategic deployment of geography and treaties can be a game-changer. As the name ‘X’ heralds a new era for Twitter, it’s a testament to how intellectual property strategies can be both intelligent and remarkably effective, hiding in plain sight until the right moment to strike. It’s a lesson in how thinking several moves ahead can protect your assets and, in this case, a company’s name from potential spoilers.   But then, it is possible in the US to obtain a trademark registration on a single letter. Under US law, given the amount of market presence that Twitter/X has, distinctiveness is not an issue preventing this mark’s registration. But it is more likely a problem in other countries around the world.   If you look at the current database from the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), apart from the United States, “X” has also been submitted in Canada, Mexico, and the European Union. Indonesia, which is also one of the member countries of the Paris Convention, is not a destination because regulations will hamper registration of this one-letter mark unless it is considered a well-known mark.   Should you require further consultation regarding Trademark registration in Indonesia or abroad, please contact us at [email protected]. Source: Josh Gerben: Twitter/X Has Finally Made Its “X” Trademark FIlings With The USPTO

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Racing Ahead: A Comprehensive Guide to IP in MotoGP

Intellectual Property1 Comment

Racing Ahead: A Comprehensive Guide to IP in MotoGP   The 2023 Mandalika MotoGP in Indonesia on October 15 again brought Ducati racer Francesco Bagnaia to the top of the standings with 346 points. The event, officially called “Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia 2023”, is the 15th race of the 20 MotoGP World Championship series, which is in a year generating a turnover of around 500 million Euros or about 8.3 trillion Rupiah.   Dorna Sports S.L., a company from Spain that has held MotoGP Commercial Rights from the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) since 1992. In Dorna’s hands, the fastest motorbike racing event on land has become the most expensive in the world with its Intellectual Property business. In 2021, Dorna Sports successfully recorded 137 million Euros just from selling Broadcast Rights to various TV and streaming platforms to broadcast each competition live. Income from Broadcasting Rights is said to reach 66% of the total income from all Intellectual Property (IP) businesses carried out. So, what other IPs are related to the implementation of MotoGP?   Trademark The first is, of course, MotoGP’s unique naming and logo. Dorna has registered MotoGP in 22 existing Trademark classes, whose protection extends to 53 countries worldwide. Of the 22 Trademark classes, it includes class 25 (clothing, shoes, hats), 28 (toys), and 30 (tea & coffee), apart from, of course, class 41 (sports activities), which is the core of its business. In Indonesia, the “MotoGP” Trademark is still protected until 2027 and can be extended every ten years.   Apart from that, Dorna also registered Trademarks for various derivative businesses related to MotoGP, such as MotoGP Kids, MotoGP VIP Village, and MotoGP Legends. By registering all the Trademarks, Dorna has become the owner of the Exclusive Rights to MotoGP and prevents the possibility of other parties registering identical or similar names in the future.   Copyright Race materials, images, promotions, and other content related to MotoGP are included in the Copyright category. As the holder of Commercial Rights to MotoGP, Dorna also owns the Copyright to MotoGP. Thus, it has the right to regulate and control the use of all Copyrights related to MotoGP, including Broadcast Rights, to broadcast the race live on various platforms worldwide. The granting of Broadcasting Rights licenses is the most significant income for Dorna. It has been recorded that from 2015 to 2021, except for 2020, there has always been an increase in revenue from Broadcasting Rights. It started from 105, 115, 125, 135, 130, and 137 million Euros (around 2.3 trillion Rupiah) in 2021. For the 2023 MotoGP World Championship, there are more than 90 channels that are official broadcasters, representing 63 countries in the world. In Indonesia, MotoGP broadcast rights are held by Trans7, MNC Vision, KVision, UseeTV, and Maxstream-SpoTV.   Patent A large-scale sports competition, especially one related to the automotive industry, indeed cannot be separated from technological inventions, whether closely related to engine construction and speed or safety equipment, which are objects that can be patented. MotoGP has also become a place for innovation competition between motorbike manufacturers and safety equipment to get maximum exposure before the technology is applied to commercial products sold to the public.   Industrial Design Suppose the design of a motorbike, riding equipment, safety equipment, and other racing equipment does not contain elements of inventions but still has an aesthetic novelty design. In that case, it can be registered and receive Industrial Design protection. The most straightforward example is the commercialization of helmets used by MotoGP racers.   Trade Secret Specific racing strategies are Trade Secrets, including technical details and other confidential information. These secrets give MotoGP teams a competitive advantage by not disclosing certain important information to competitors, and all team members involved are bound by a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA).   Domain Name Domain names related to MotoGP are significant for maintaining online presence and marketing. Dorna has registered “motogp.com” to prevent cybersquatting and brand misuse. This domain is also available in many languages, including Indonesian, to facilitate the marketing and disseminating of official information to all media and MotoGP fans worldwide.   Licensing Agreement Apart from the Copyright previously mentioned, the License Agreement can also cover other Intellectual Property regimes, such as Brand Licenses to produce and sell merchandise, mobile phone applications, video games, and many more. Because if we talk about business, a robust Intellectual Property License Agreement can mutually benefit all parties involved.   From Dorna Sports’ financial report in 2021, more than 100 million Euros were spent on organizing MotoGP. However, they managed to record a profit of 46 million from revenue of 207 million Euros. This figure is undoubtedly quite fantastic for sporting activities supported by solid IPs.   Because a successful sports business is also an Intellectual Property business, would you be serious about getting into it? In that case, you can start on the most miniature scale, from events that are local but have the potential for a broad audience, and continue to present exciting and competitive matches so that more and more parties are interested in joining in getting a license.   If you need further information about Licensing Agreements, Trademark registration, Patent protection, or anything related to Intellectual Property, please do not hesitate to contact us via [email protected].