Designs Not Eligible for Protection

• Designs that are not new or original are not protected.
  
• Designs that have been disclosed to the public prior to filing lose eligibility.
  
• Designs lacking visual appeal or aesthetic value are excluded.
  
• Purely functional or mechanical features are not protected.
  
• Designs that are contrary to public order or morality are rejected.
  

Non-Commercial Use Exceptions

• Private or personal use of a design does not constitute infringement.
  
• Use for research or experimental purposes is generally exempt.
  
• Non-profit activities involving the design may fall outside enforcement.
  
• Temporary or informal use without commercial gain may be overlooked.
  
• These uses do not trigger liability under the Designs Act.
  

Functional Features Exclusion

• Design protection does not cover the method or principle of construction.
  
• Features dictated solely by function are not considered protectable designs.
  
• Utility patents or technical rights must cover such aspects separately.
  
• The focus of protection is limited to visual, ornamental features.
  
• Industrial efficiency alone is not a ground for design registration.
  

Overlap with Other IP Rights

• A registered design cannot be simultaneously protected as a trademark.
  
• Designs that qualify as artistic works may be eligible under copyright law.
  
• Dual protection is excluded once the design is registered under the Designs Act.
  
• Trademark law does not protect designs used solely for decoration.
  
• The law prevents overlapping claims to avoid duplication of rights.
  

Loss of Rights After Lapse or Cancellation

• If a design is not renewed, it enters the public domain.
  
• Cancelled or revoked designs lose all legal protection.
  
• Others may use lapsed designs without infringement.
  
• No legal remedy is available after the design ceases to be in force.
  
• The exceptions apply only when the registration status is inactive.