IP services / German, EU and international design applications
HORAK · INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
German, EU and international design applications
Protect product appearance with carefully prepared design representations. We advise on German registered designs, registered EU designs and international design applications through the Hague System.
The representation is central
The filing should identify what visual features are claimed and show the product consistently. Photographs, drawings, disclaimers and different views need a deliberate approach. A technically useful feature is not automatically protected simply because it appears in a design image.
Coordinate filing and disclosure
We review novelty, individual character, prior disclosures and the territories needed. Grace periods and unregistered rights vary and should not replace an early filing strategy. Product families may justify multiple applications, but each design needs its own clear representation.
Apply the current EU rules
The EU design reform has changed terminology and procedure in stages. The second phase became applicable on 1 July 2026. New applications should be prepared under the current representation and filing requirements rather than an old checklist. International designations still require consideration of local substantive rules.
Three practical examples
Illustrative situations; outcomes depend on the facts and the applicable law.
01
A furniture maker plans a collection launch: we select views for each model and coordinate filing before publicity.
02
A device has a distinctive casing and a new mechanism: design and patent protection address different aspects.
03
A digital product uses an animated interface: we assess whether and how its appearance can be represented under current rules.
What to prepare
Consistent images or drawings, intended variants, product indications, designer and owner details and first-disclosure dates.
How we approach your matter
01 · Assess
We identify the objective, the relevant rights and the next deadline. Existing documents and the technical or commercial background determine the scope of the review.
02 · Agree
We explain the available routes, material risks and expected stages. The instruction distinguishes professional fees from official charges, translations and external costs.
03 · Act
We carry out the agreed work, report material developments and identify the next decision. Filing, registration or a particular dispute outcome cannot be guaranteed.
Further information
Official guidance relevant to this topic. Individual advice requires a review of the particular documents, facts and deadlines.
International filing strategy · Portfolio review · IP disputes
Discuss the next step
Tell us what you want to protect, the markets involved and any filing, launch or response deadline. We will clarify the scope of the instruction, the documents needed and the basis of the fees before starting the agreed work. Please identify the parties first so that we can check for conflicts and arrange a suitable channel for sensitive technical information.
Hannover headquarters · Advice for German and international businesses · Our offices
Enquire about design application
Request a design filing for a product, packaging or digital appearance. Describe the design and any previous publication; we can then agree how to review the images and variants for the application. All fields are optional.