Japan is taking measures to harmonize its design law and practice with those of other countries and the Hague Agreement. For example, disclosure requirements have been relaxed and protectable design subject matter has been expanded with respect to, among other things, software related designs. Software has increased design flexibility. A representative success story is GUI design of mobile phones. GUI design isdesign system. an essential part of a user's experience, and can add great value to the product.

The scope of protection of a design is determined by the figures submitted with the application. Unlike a patent, it is not possible to correct the scope of protection. Therefore, it is essential to have a strategy at the time of application to obtain the broadest possible protection.

As such, we adapt our prosecution strategies to maximize protection of your designs by identifying the design elements to be claimed and, in order to achieve the most advantageous scope of protection, deciding whether it is best to pursue a whole design or a partial design, and whether to take advantage of the related design system.

To prosecute your designs effectively, our team also takes advantage of the insight of ex-JPO examiners, as well as personal interviews with the examiner. At Ohtsuka Patent Office, we are proud to support our client's utilization of designs in maximizing the value of their products.

Smart phones and tablets are among the leading popular products of today. The brands borne by such products are renowned and instantly recognizable, and are themselves representative of the `look' of the product.　Consumers frequently buy goods relying on reputation of the brand. Your brand is paramount, and must be carefully protected.

It is essential for a brand to match the style of the product and the business, and to be easy to remember.

Every company wishes to create a brand name that is simple and impressionable as a trademark, but on the other hand, there are now 5.6 million trademark registrations in Japan, so there is a chance that the desired name has already been registered. It is not easy to find a trademark that can be used safely. When selecting your trademark, careful consideration is necessary in view of similarity of trademarks and the competitive relationship with other companies.

At Ohtsuka Patent Office, we listen to our clients' wishes and analyze the state of the relevant industry before providing the most appropriate advice regarding (1) if the trademark can be used, (2) whether the application, if filed, would be successful, and (3) the chances of successful registration and use.

Trademarks, which are at the frontline of business, may be communicated across the globe instantly. At Ohtsuka Patent Office, we will support the development and protection of your trademark and brand.