Q1: If we co-develop a new product with you, who owns the resulting intellectual property?
A1: Ownership is negotiated prior to development. Typically, background IP (what each party brought in) remains owned by that party. Foreground IP (the new invention) can be jointly owned or owned by one party with licensing rights granted to the other, defined in a joint development agreement (JDA).

Q2: Can we patent a design that you manufacture for us?
A2: You can patent a novel and non-obvious design that you created. We would be listed as the manufacturer. We require clarity in our agreement that you own the design IP and have the right to patent it, and that our role is strictly confidential manufacturing.

Q3: What is the MOQ for a production run of a co-developed, patented product?
A3: The MOQ for a co-developed product is a key term of the JDA. It is typically higher than our standard MOQ to justify the shared R&D investment and ensure commercial viability, often starting at 500 sqm or more for the initial production.

Q4: How do you protect our design from being offered to other clients during our exclusive period?
A4: This is secured through a legally binding exclusivity clause within our manufacturing agreement or JDA. It specifies the product, territory, and duration of exclusivity. We take contractual confidentiality obligations very seriously.

Q5: What happens if a third party claims our co-developed product infringes their patent?
A5: The JDA should define IP indemnification responsibilities. Typically, each party warrants their background IP does not infringe. For the co-developed foreground IP, we would share the responsibility and cost of defense, depending on the nature of the claim.