(Future) Motion for Temporary Restraining Order Granted

The annual Consumer Electronics Show (CES) provides a highly publicized venue for companies to showcase their cutting-edge technology and innovative designs.  Just days before this year’s show in Las Vegas, NV, one design patent owner prevented an alleged infringer from distributing, promoting, and offering to sell potentially infringing products.  Follow the jump to learn why an emergency temporary restraining order was granted to the design patent owner without an opportunity for the defendant to appear.

Design Patent Figures with 3D CAD Software

Similar to a utility patent, a proper design patent application will include (among other components) a description of the design, a claim, and one or more drawings or photographs. Since the drawing disclosure is often considered the most important element of the application, a great deal of care is generally taken when preparing the drawings. For instance, many applicants will enlist the assistance of a draftsman to prepare “formal” drawings. However, the service of a draftsman can be expensive, and we often get asked if there are alternative ways to prepare drawings. In particular, the question is often raised: can 3D CAD images, such as those prepared with SolidWorks, be used to satisfy the drawing requirement? Follow the jump for an answer and analysis.