TM (R) (C) Pat. Pend.

What do those symbols mean? TM TM stands for trademark. A trademark is a word, phrase, symbol or design, or a combination of these elements, used to identify or distinguish the goods and services of one company (or individual) from others. The TM-symbol is often used to indicate that the producer of the product started a procedure to obtain trademark-protection but did not get the final approval yet. (R) This stands for registered trademark. This is a warning towards competitors : "Watch out ! This trademark has been registered ! Don't you try to copy it !" In contrast to TM it means that de protection procedure was successful and protection as a trademark has been granted to the producer. In other words, the trademark is a valid registered trademark. Both TM and (R) are symbols mainly used in the USA. In the Benelux countries (unlike the USA), we are unfamiliar with the requirement to use these symbols. In the Benelux there are no fixed rules or legislation for the application of these symbols, which can be used provided that they relate to an actual registered trademark. They may not be used in a misleading way. (C) This stands for copyright. One who makes something original, is the author of it. The symbol claims copyright. It protects the author against copying by others. In principal every one is free to use this sign. If needed a judge can determine whether or not the use of this symbol is justified. The use of this symbol can vary from country to country. Different rules are applicable. For example the use is not necessary in Belgium and the Netherlands in order to obtain copyright protection. An author is protected automatically without the need to fulfil any formality or procedure or use of a symbol. Always use this symbol in combination with the name of the author (e.g. (C) your name) and the year of first publication. Patent pending / Patent Appl.nr. [...] of [applition date] The right of patent is the right to exclude others from making, using, offering for sale or selling the invention/the product. Basically, a patent gives the owner the right to a monopoly on the use of the invention for a period of time. The wordings 'patent pending' or 'patent appl.nr. [...] of [application date]' are used to inform the public (and competitors) that an application for patent on that product is on file in the patent office. In most countries there is no …