I-depot to protect ideas
September 27th, 2005
A creative invention, such as a special method of selling products or services via the Internet, cannot always be protected under patent, trademark or design law. But such an idea can be protected by means of an I-depot. For an idea such as a special sales technique you can register an I-depot with the Benelux Designs Office in The Hague. Strictly speaking, you cannot derive any intellectual property rights from such a registration, but it is nevertheless very useful. It serves as evidence of the date of creation of your idea or design and of the designer’s identity. This is particularly important in a copyright context. If, for instance, copyright protection is claimed in a dispute, your I-depot will prove that it was your idea. The Algemeen Octrooi- en Merkenbureau can rapidly and efficiently arrange for an I-depot for you. Our attorneys will assess the content of the I-depot, among other things. An I-depot is valid for a period of five years. If you wish to learn more about I-depots, please contact us at telephone number +31 40 243 37 15.