Brief History of Intellectual and Industrial Property (IIP)
Every April 26, since 2000, we celebrate World Intellectual and Industrial Property Day (IIP). This date, promoted by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), marks the entry into force of the WIPO Convention, and aims to raise society’s awareness of the importance of protecting the creations of the human mind, both industrial and artistic.
The BIC Ballpoint Pen: A Perfect Industrial Design
Have you ever wondered why the design of the BIC ballpoint pen has never changed? Since its launch in 1950, its polyhedral, transparent shape has been an icon of industrial design, a branch of intellectual property that protects the external appearance of a product.
When Baron Marcel Bich acquired the patent rights to the ballpoint pen, he focused not only on functionality, but also on creating an attractive, ergonomic and useful design. The famous ballpoint pen features details thought out to the millimeter: a hole in the barrel to regulate the pressure when writing, a stainless steel tip almost as hard as diamond and, of course, its iconic blue cap.
Did you know that the only change it has undergone was for safety reasons? In 1991 a small hole was added to the lid to prevent choking, in case someone accidentally chewed it and swallowed it.
The Power of Brands: From Products to Icons
Today, we don’t just buy products; we look for brands. We no longer ask for candy; we look for Chupa Chups, one of the most iconic brands, with a fascinating history behind it. In 1958, Spanish visionary Enric Bernat had a brilliant idea: to put a candy on a stick. But it wasn’t just the idea, it was also the name “Chupa Chups” and the logo design, the work of none other than Salvador Dalí in just one hour.
The result was so iconic that the stick candy not only conquered the world, but its industrial design is now on display at the Museum of Modern Art in New York (MoMA). A great example of how brands, supported by intellectual property rights, can transform a common product into a cultural symbol.
How to place the toilet paper? The answer is in the patent
One of the most curious and unusual debates revolves around the correct placement of toilet paper. Should the loose end go on top or underneath? This dilemma has been a matter of controversy for decades, but the solution lies in an 1891 patent.
Wheeler’s Albany Perforated Wrapping Paper Company, in its patent application, made it clear that the paper should be placed in the top position, making it easier to use and minimizing waste. So, the next time someone questions you on this topic, you already have the answer backed by history.
Conclusion: Intellectual property boosts creativity and development
The role of Intellectual and Industrial Property goes beyond protecting products and brands: it is essential for the economic growth and creative development of society. Knowing and respecting these rights can be the difference between success and anonymity for inventors, artists and entrepreneurs.
Whether it’s the design of a pen, the creation of a globally recognized brand or details as simple as the correct positioning of a toilet roll, intellectual property ensures that brilliant ideas receive the recognition they deserve.
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