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Trademarks: More Than Words
- Can you Trademark a Color?Yes, you can!
- Non-conventional TrademarksSounds, scents, motion, and more!
Frequently Asked Questions
Top 5 Library FAQ's:
Library Session Materials
- USPTOThe United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)
- Trademark Electronic Search System (TESS)This is the database of federally registered trademarks.
- TESS HelpHelp for the Trademark Electronic Search System (TESS).
Search Activity
You’d like to design a logo for your clothing company. You’d prefer one of these large, intimidating animals:
- Threatening Crocodile
- Roaring Bear
- Charging Moose
Provide one screenshot of one TESS trademark entry for an animal listed above that could be confusingly similar.
The following questions will help guide your research:
- What descriptive words could you search with?
- What helpful fields could you use with your descriptive words?
- How would you refine your search to only include active trademarks?
- Do you know the names of any companies that currently use similar logos? Do they have federally registered trademarks?
Other Useful Links
- Protecting Your Trademark BookletA resource from the USPTO that provides information for the public on the trademark registration process.
- Trademark Design Search Code ManualTrademarks with images are categorized and assigned a specific search code. Using a search code can help refine your searches in the TESS database.
- Trademark Electronic Application System (TEAS)This system is the only method available for submitting a trademark application.
- Tademark ID ManualIdentify specific terms used to describe the goods and services that a trademark is classified with.
- Trademark Manual of Examining Procedure (TMEP)This is the manual used by examining attorneys. It can provide insight into how to navigate the registration process.
- Elijah J. McCoy Midwest Regional Office (MWRO) of the USPTO:Located in Detroit, MI, this regional office of the USPTO offers training and guidance to the public.