DesignVision is an artificial intelligence system that assists with the examination of design patent applications at Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED). The system uses computer vision and deep learning algorithms to automatically search global design databases and identify similar designs, comparing tens of millions of existing designs against newly-filed applications in seconds. This replaces the labor-intensive manual visual inspection process that previously required human examiners to review thousands of designs individually.
The system affects applicants seeking design patents by significantly reducing processing times and improving the quality and consistency of examination decisions. DesignVision searches collective industrial design databases from 80 international intellectual property offices worldwide, enabling faster and more thorough comparisons than manual review. Since its deployment in 2022, the system has enhanced examination efficiency and quality while reducing the administrative burden on government employees.
Key Transparency Information: This system does not collect or process personal information about individuals. It operates exclusively on design images and technical data from patent applications. The system is currently in production and is used by GC employees responsible for design patent examination. The technology was developed by Clarivate Analytics and is subject to regular monitoring to ensure accurate and fair examination outcomes across all design applications.
