Design searches

Design registrations are stored in indexed databases that can be searched for many different reasons, depending upon the knowledge you are seeking.

Design registrability searches (aka pre-filing searches) are conducted to ascertain whether a design is registrable.

Design clearance searches (aka design infringement searches) are conducted to assess whether a new product infringes earlier design registrations (i.e. to assess freedom to operate).

Other design searches are conducted for strategic reasons – for example, a strong indication of a competitor’s R&D activities can be obtained by watching their design filing activities.

BRM Patent Attorneys can advise you which design searches will achieve your business objectives. Our searching expertise puts clients in a position of knowledge, allowing them to make informed decisions.

We can tailor a design search to your commercial objectives.

Further reading

• What is a design registration?
• Design registration coverage
• How to register a design
• Patent protection
• Contact us