Patent (2)

IDSA Urges USPTO to Reconsider Design Patent Fee Increase

Patent (2)
Published June 20, 2023

IDSA has expressed concerns to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) about the proposed increase in costs for prosecuting Design Patents. In their comments, IDSA emphasizes the importance of Design Patents in fostering innovation and economic growth within the industrial design profession, while urging the USPTO to reconsider the magnitude of the fee hike.

Design Patents play a vital role in safeguarding the visual appearance of manufactured articles, promoting creativity, and distinguishing products in the market. IDSA acknowledges the various forms of intellectual property protection but underscores the unique value offered by Design Patents.

The proposed fee increase of approximately 48% for Design Patents has raised alarm bells within the industry. IDSA worries that such a significant hike could impede innovation, resulting in reduced funding for new product projects and potential job losses. To mitigate these concerns, IDSA calls upon the USPTO to reassess the extent of the fee increase, ensuring a balance between protecting intellectual property rights and fostering progress in the field of industrial design.

IDSA’s appeal reflects the concerns of the industrial design community and aims to strike a balance between protecting intellectual property rights and fostering progress in the field. The outcome of the USPTO’s decision will have significant implications for innovation and economic prosperity within industrial design.