May 11, 2017

Design
Revisions

Revision of Design Examination Guidelines in relation to "Shading", "Reference view" and "Lack of novelty"

Abstract
As from April 1, 2017, with regard to Japanese design applications, the number of first Office Actions based on a lack of description relating to shading may decrease, since the Japan Patent Office (JPO) has partially revised the Design Examination Guidelines for the relevant parts.