What is a design or industrial model?

The design or industrial model refers to the visual aspect of a product, unlike the patent which refers to the technical and functional aspects. The design or industrial model constitutes the decorative and esthetic aspect of your product or its packaging.

• The design is a bidimensional element: it describes a set of lines or colors which are characteristic of the esthetics of your product
• The model is a tridimensional element: it describes any plastic form associated or not to lines or colors.
• The design or industrial model presents characteristics in terms of form, configuration, esthetics or ornamentation.

The industrial property title may be granted on a design, a model, or a combination of both. It assigns the exclusive exploitation title for a 5-year period, renewable twice, that is to say a maximum duration of 15 years.

The design or industrial model enables you to avoid copies
The ownership title on your design or industrial model bestows exclusive rights of exploitation on you. It thus enables you to fight effectively against copying, and to develop your creativity concerning the esthetic aspect of your products.

The design or industrial model makes your product original and attractive

• Thanks to a new "design" of your product, you may conquer new market segments. Thus, for example, some colors will particularly appeal to women, whereas some shapes will appeal preferably to young people.
• The design or model may help you make the difference on a competitive market, where the technical merits of your product are not an essential element. The visual identification will then enable you to distinguish yourself and to maintain your customers loyalty.
• Think of associating the trademark and the design or model: you will thus create a coherent image of your company and your products, which do reinforce your subjective bonds with your customers.

Do not neglect the esthetic aspects of your product: to appeal to your customers, the shape is sometimes quite as important as the substance