Source: KIPO
Date: May 23, 2012

- Twofold Increase in 3D design applications per year -

Since 2010, the Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO, Commissioner Ho-won Kim) has allowed the use of 3D pictures in design applications for the first time in the world, creating a new design application system. Within three years of its implementation, the usage rate of the system has increased twofold every year, a noteworthy rate of growth.

The 3D design application system allows applicants to submit 3D picture files using computer graphic technology instead of 2D drawings.

This system was implemented in response to the actual situation of industries where designing products with 3D pictures using computer graphic technology is widespread. Instead of having to create multiple figures from the 3D picture files, applicants may submit the 3D computer files saving time and costs.

Applications using 3D pictures amounted to only 786 in 2010, but increased twofold and jumped to 1,569 in 2011. So far this year, we have already had 877 3D design applications, which is much greater than the 491 applications of the same period last year.

An analysis of the 3D design applications in 2011 showed that small and midsized enterprises (SMEs, 58 percent) and individuals (40 percent) accounted for most of the applications rather than conglomerates. This is most likely due to the fact that individuals and SMEs find it difficult and costly to hire an outside source to create the 3D pictures.

In addition, an analysis by product type showed that 24 percent of all applications were housing facility goods, 23 percent were civil engineering construction goods, and 17 percent were accessories, etc. This seems to be the case because the relevant companies are mostly using 3D computer graphic technology that can better depict the complex structures or delicate details of their products.

Furthermore, 3D design applications also greatly help KIPO expedite the examination process by enabling examiners to accurately grasp and judge the designs from various angles without the submission of various complex plans.

Based on the current results of the 3D design application system, we expect its use to largely increase in the future. But applicants must take the precaution of submitting views in the file formats [3DS, DWG, DWF, IG(E)S] that KIPO accepts and check if the images are accurately expressed using a 3D viewer before submitting the files.

KIPO plans to make improvements to the system such as upgrading its 3D viewer performance to increase convenience for applicants.