Copyright, trademark, and patent serve different purposes:
Copyright protects original creative works like writing, music, art, photography, and software code. It automatically applies when a work is created and gives the creator exclusive rights to reproduce, distribute, and modify their work. Copyright typically lasts for the creator's lifetime plus 70 years.
Trademark protects brand identifiers like company names, logos, slogans, and distinctive product designs that help consumers identify the source of goods or services. Unlike copyright, trademarks must be used in commerce and can last indefinitely as long as they're actively used and renewed. The protection prevents others from using confusingly similar marks in related industries.
Patent protects new inventions, processes, or useful improvements to existing products. Patents require formal application and approval, must meet criteria for novelty and non-obviousness, and typically last 20 years from filing. They give inventors exclusive rights to make, use, or sell their invention during the patent term.
Design Industry Examples:
In graphic design, a designer's original logo illustration would be protected by copyright, preventing others from copying the artistic work without permission.
In product design, Apple's distinctive iPhone home button design was protected by trademark as a brand identifier, while the underlying touch-sensing technology was protected by patents.
In fashion design, while the actual garment designs have limited copyright protection, a fashion house's name and logo are trademarked, and any innovative textile technologies or manufacturing processes might be patented.