The Industrial Design Act defines an industrial design to be the “features of shape, configuration, pattern or ornament and any combination of those features that, in a finished article, appeal to and are judged solely by the eye.”
Impact of Amendments to Canada’s Industrial Design Act
By definition, Industrial Designs are the visual features of shape, configuration, pattern or ornament, or any combination of these features applied to a finished article. Basically, it is about how things look. For example, the specific shape or decoration of a table. Further, it must be an original design in order to be protected. But how does one prove originality? Fortunately, Canada’s Industrial Design Act exists to answer this question, among others, and provide direction regarding the requirements and process for registering a design. In November 5, 2018, amendments to this Act came into force. Here are a number of changes that those who are looking to register an Industrial Design in Canada should be aware of.