1. Protecting Visual Aesthetics under the Designs Act, 2000
Design registration protects the novel aesthetic features of shape, configuration, pattern, ornament, or composition of lines applied to a three-dimensional article. It does not protect the functional mechanism.
Trademarks, conversely, protect shapes only if they function as trade source identifiers in the market.
Editorial NoticeThis publication is intended for general informational purposes and does not constitute formal legal advice. Intellectual property strategy depends on the relevant facts, jurisdictions and current legal framework.