- Rockin’ (Design) Patent: US Design Patent No. 244,717
- Filed: 10 July 1975
- In the name of: Florian Schneider and Ralf Hütter of Kraftwerk fame
- Title: Electronic Percussion Musical Instrument
- What’s claimed: “The ornamental design for an electronic percussion musical instrument, substantially as shown”
- Why this (design) patent rocks: First of all, this is a ‘design patent’ rather than a ‘utility patent’. What’s referred to as a ‘design patent’ in the US is often called a ‘registered design’ in other countries. Design patents (or registered designs) protect the way things look rather than how they work. This can be seen from what’s claimed; an ornamental design rather than functionality of the instrument as such. Oh, and the Kraftwerk connection is pretty cool too of course.
If you’re a patent-savvy music tech business looking for patent help, get in touch with Russell IP here!
The information above is for general interest and information only and does not constitute legal advice.