Three-dimensional designs fall within the scope of unregistered design right and Not under copyright unless they are considered to be an artistic work. Â Three dimensional designs can be protected as Registered Designs but they need to be Registered as a Registered UK or CTM Registered Design if they wish to secure this protection.
So if you want to ‘copy’ a 3d design you need to be aware of:
- UK Or Community Registered Designs
- UK unregistered design right (for ten years only)or community unregistered design right (three years only)
It may be too simplistic….
Warning! Some designs are  more Âartistic than others – if so a 3D design will be covered by copyright in the drawing or prototype and NOT by unregistered design right. For example  Âworks of sculpture and Âworks of artistic craftsmanship or three-dimensional design of buildings and other structures.
So if you want to ‘copy’ a 2d design then we are within the scope of artistic copyright or the Community Unregistered Design.Â
Confused? Me too!
MJCÂ