JP2024073831A - Graphic trademark search support device, graphic trademark search support method, computer program, and computer readable medium - Google Patents

Abstract

[Problem] To provide a device, method, computer program, and computer-readable medium for supporting a graphic trademark search, which can support a search of a graphic trademark using multiple appropriate classification information while reflecting a user's research viewpoint. [Solution] A device 20 for supporting a graphic trademark search, comprising at least an input unit 21 for inputting image data of a graphic trademark to be searched and multiple classification information used in the search of the graphic trademark, a calculation unit 223 for calculating a matching score for each classification information based on the image data input to the input unit 21 and a reference graphic corresponding to the classification information input to the input unit 21, and an acquisition unit 23 for acquiring a prior filed trademark including multiple classification information having a matching score equal to or greater than a first predetermined value from a trademark database 10. [Selected Figure] Figure 1

Description

The present disclosure relates to a device for supporting graphic trademark research, a method for supporting graphic trademark research, a computer program, and a computer-readable medium on which the computer program is stored.

Patent Document 1 discloses a similar image search device that automatically assigns a Vienna Classification code (an example of classification information) to a new trademark by inputting the new trademark into a trained model.

JP 2020-144440 A

By the way, for example, when investigating whether there is a prior trademark that is identical or similar to a figurative trademark to be applied for, the investigation is performed using Vienna Classification codes. Generally, when investigating figurative trademarks using only one Vienna Classification code, a huge number of prior trademarks are often detected. In this case, the detected prior trademarks may include many prior trademarks that seem to be dissimilar at first glance to the figurative trademark to be applied for, which is not preferable. On the other hand, when investigating figurative trademarks by combining many Vienna Classification codes, the number of prior trademarks detected decreases. However, when investigating figurative trademarks by combining more Vienna Classification codes than necessary, the possibility of missing a mark in the investigation increases. For this reason, when investigating figurative trademarks, the user selects multiple Vienna Classification codes that seem to be related to the figurative trademark to be applied for, and then combines several Vienna Classification codes from among them to investigate the figurative trademark. In other words, when investigating figurative trademarks, it is necessary to conduct the investigation using multiple Vienna Classification codes that are appropriate in terms of content and quantity. In addition, it is possible to investigate figurative trademarks using a device that automatically assigns Vienna Classification codes, such as the device related to Patent Document 1, but it is difficult to conduct an investigation that reflects the user's investigation perspective with such a device. In particular, in such devices, the internal processes, such as the automatic assignment of Vienna Classification codes, are often treated as black boxes, making it difficult for users to understand the research perspective used in the research conducted by the device.

The present disclosure aims to provide a device, a method, a computer program, and a computer-readable medium for supporting graphic trademark research that can support the research of graphic trademarks using multiple appropriate classification information while reflecting the user's research perspective.

In order to achieve the above object, a device for supporting graphic trademark research according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises:
an input unit for inputting at least image data of a figurative trademark to be investigated and a plurality of classification information to be used in investigating the figurative trademark;
a calculation unit that calculates a matching score for each of the classification information based on the image data input to the input unit and a reference figure corresponding to the classification information input to the input unit;
The system also includes an acquisition unit that acquires from a trademark database prior application trademarks that include multiple pieces of classification information whose matching scores are equal to or greater than a first predetermined value.

In addition, a method for supporting a graphic trademark search according to one aspect of the present invention for achieving the above object includes the following steps:
1. A computer implemented method for assisting in graphic trademark searching, comprising:
A step of inputting at least image data of a figurative trademark to be searched and a plurality of classification information to be used in the search of said figurative trademark;
calculating a matching score for each of the classification information based on the input image data and a reference figure corresponding to the input classification information;
The method includes a step of obtaining, from a trademark database, prior application trademarks including a plurality of pieces of classification information whose matching scores are equal to or greater than a first predetermined value.

In addition, a computer program according to one aspect for achieving the above object comprises:
1. A computer program comprising at least one instruction for execution by a processor of an apparatus for assisting in graphic trademark research,
At least one of the instructions, when executed by the processor, causes the support device to:
Calculating a matching score for each of the classification information based on the image data input to the input unit of the support device and a reference figure corresponding to the plurality of classification information input to the input unit;
Prior-filed trademarks including a plurality of pieces of classification information whose matching scores are equal to or greater than a first predetermined value are obtained from a trademark database.

In addition, a computer-readable medium according to one embodiment of the present invention for achieving the above object includes:
The above computer program is stored.

According to the support device for graphic trademark research having the above configuration, a matching score is calculated for each classification information based on a reference figure corresponding to the input classification information, and a prior application trademark including the multiple classification information whose matching score is equal to or greater than a first predetermined value is obtained from the trademark database. In other words, the matching score calculated by the support device having the above configuration is based on the multiple classification information input by the user, and the matching score for the multiple classification information used when obtaining the prior application trademark from the trademark database is equal to or greater than a first predetermined value. Therefore, according to such a support device for graphic trademark research, it is possible to support the investigation of graphic trademarks using multiple appropriate classification information while reflecting the user's research viewpoint. The information processing method, computer program, and computer-readable medium having the above configuration can also achieve the same effect.

According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a device for supporting graphic trademark research, a method for supporting graphic trademark research, a computer program, and a computer-readable medium that can support the research of graphic trademarks using multiple appropriate classification information while reflecting the user's research perspective.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a reference graphic database. FIG. 3 is a flow chart illustrating the process executed by the support device in this embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the input screen. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the input Vienna Classification code and the matching score for each Vienna Classification code. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a state in which the display data is displayed on the display unit of the support device or the display unit of the user terminal device. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the display data displayed on the display unit of the support device or the display unit of the user terminal device. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the input screen.

An example of an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings.

The support system 1 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. Figure 1 is a block diagram of the support system 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The support system 1 is a support system for graphic trademark research. Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating a reference graphic database 40. As illustrated in Figure 1, the support system 1 includes a trademark database 10, a support device 20, and a user terminal device 30. The trademark database 10 and the support device 20 can communicate with each other, for example, via the Internet. The support device 20 and the user terminal device 30 can communicate with each other via wired or wireless communication.

The trademark database 10 may be, for example, a database of the Japan Patent Office, a database of the United States Patent and Trademark Office, a database of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), or a commercial database provided by a trademark service provider. The trademark database 10 stores application information and registration information related to trademarks in at least one country. In this embodiment, the term "country" is a concept that includes not only independent countries, but also countries that are not internationally recognized and organizations consisting of multiple countries such as the European Union. In addition, application information related to trademarks is, for example, information on trademark registration applications, international registration applications, trademark registration applications, etc. In this embodiment, trademark registration applications include international trademark registration applications. In other words, in this embodiment, the term "trademark registration application" is a concept that includes not only applications that are directly processed at designated authorities such as patent offices and trademark offices of each country, but also applications that are indirectly processed at designated authorities of each country through international trademark applications. For example, the Japan Patent Office database stores trademarks, classifications, designated goods and services, similar group codes, Vienna Classification codes, applicant names, right holder names, application numbers, registration numbers, application dates, registration dates, etc., corresponding to applications and registrations related to trademark registration applications filed with the Japan Patent Office. The Vienna Classification code is an example of classification information.

The support device 20 includes an input unit 21, a control unit 22, an acquisition unit 23, a display unit 24, and an output unit 25. These are connected to each other via a bus 26 so as to be able to communicate with each other.

The input unit 21 is configured to accept a user's input operation on the support device 20 and generate a request signal corresponding to the input operation. The input unit 21 is, for example, an input device such as a touch panel superimposed on the display unit 24 or a keyboard electrically connected to the support device 20. For example, image data of the figurative trademark to be surveyed and multiple pieces of classification information to be used in the survey of the figurative trademark are input to the input unit 21. However, other information other than the image data of the figurative trademark to be surveyed and the multiple pieces of classification information to be used in the survey of the figurative trademark may also be input to the input unit 21. When the image data of the figurative trademark to be surveyed and the multiple pieces of classification information to be used in the survey of the figurative trademark are input to the input unit 21, the input unit 21 transmits the input image data and the multiple pieces of classification information to the control unit 22.

The control unit 22 includes, as its hardware configuration, a memory and a processor. The memory includes, for example, a ROM (Read Only Memory) in which various computer programs and the like are stored, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) having multiple work areas in which various computer programs and the like executed by the processor are stored. The processor is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), and is configured to expand a computer program specified from the various computer programs built into the ROM onto the RAM and execute various processes in cooperation with the RAM. The control unit 22 includes a storage unit 221, an identification unit 222, a calculation unit 223, a determination unit 224, and a generation unit 225.

In this embodiment, a computer-readable medium may be used. A computer-readable medium refers to any type of physical memory (RAM, ROM, etc.) that can store information or data that can be read by a processor. A computer-readable medium may store instructions for execution by one or more processors. The term "computer-readable medium" includes tangible items and excludes carrier waves and transitory signals (i.e., non-transitory). Examples of non-transitory computer-readable media include magnetic recording media (e.g., floppy disks, magnetic tapes, hard disk drives), magneto-optical recording media (e.g., magneto-optical disks), CD-ROMs (Read Only Memory), CD-Rs, CD-R/Ws, and semiconductor memories (e.g., mask ROMs, PROMs (Programmable ROMs), EPROMs (Erasable PROMs), and flash ROMs).

The storage unit 221 stores a reference figure associated with each classification information. In this embodiment, the storage unit 221 stores a reference figure database 40 illustrated in FIG. 2. The reference figure can be arbitrarily set by the user as long as it is a figure corresponding to the Vienna Classification code. In other words, the reference figure is not a figure corresponding to the Vienna Classification code that a designated authority such as a patent office or trademark office of each country has actually assigned to a trademark that has been applied for, but a figure arbitrarily set by the user. The dimensions, orientation, size, etc. of the reference figure set by the user are arbitrary. In addition, the "user" here does not include designated authorities such as a patent office or trademark office of each country and service providers related to trademarks. Therefore, in this embodiment, the reference figure is not set by designated authorities such as a patent office or trademark office of each country and service providers related to trademarks. In addition, the reference figure does not have to be set based on the Vienna Classification code that has been assigned to a trademark that has actually been applied for. Furthermore, the reference figure can be, for example, a figure that includes only a graphic element that is linked to only one Vienna Classification code (an example of classification information). The simpler the structure of the figure, the fewer the number of Vienna Classification codes assigned to that figure. For this reason, a trademark consisting of only a figure that includes only a figurative element that is linked to only one Vienna Classification code is likely to be evaluated as a trademark consisting of only a very simple and common mark. Since a trademark consisting of only a very simple and common mark is not distinctive, a figure that includes only a figurative element that is linked to only one Vienna Classification code is likely to be a figure that does not have distinctiveness. In this embodiment, the reference figure corresponding to Vienna Classification code 1.7.6 is, for example, figure D1 in region R1 in FIG. 2. Figure D1 is a crescent-shaped figure. For convenience of explanation, only one reference figure corresponding to each Vienna Classification code is shown in FIG. 2, but there may be multiple reference figures corresponding to each Vienna Classification code.

The classification information is, for example, the Vienna Classification Code. In this embodiment, the classification information includes a major classification, a medium classification, and a small classification. However, the classification information only needs to include at least a major classification, and may not include, for example, a medium classification and a small classification. For example, when the classification information is the Vienna Classification Code, the Vienna Classification Code has a tree structure of major classifications, medium classifications, and small classifications, which are composed of 29, 144, and 1887 classifications, respectively. For example, major classification 1 is a classification related to celestial bodies, natural phenomena, and maps. Medium classification 1.7 is a classification related to the moon. Small classification 1.7.6 is a classification related to the crescent moon and the half moon.

Returning to FIG. 1, the identification unit 222 will be described. The identification unit 222 identifies a reference figure corresponding to each of the multiple pieces of classification information input to the input unit 21 for each piece of classification information. For example, when the Vienna Classification code 1.7.6 is input to the input unit 21, the identification unit 222 identifies the reference figure (figure D1) located within the region R1. Note that when there are multiple reference figures corresponding to the Vienna Classification code input to the input unit 21 (for example, when there are multiple reference figures within the region R1), the identification unit 222 identifies the multiple reference figures.

The calculation unit 223 calculates a matching score for each of the input classification information based on the image data input to the input unit 21 and the reference figure corresponding to the classification information input to the input unit 21. The calculation unit 223 searches for a figure identical to the reference figure (hereinafter also referred to as the same figure) or a figure approximating the reference figure (hereinafter also referred to as the approximate figure) from among the graphic trademarks related to the image data input to the input unit 21. In this embodiment, the same figure is a figure having a matching rate with the reference figure of 100%, and the approximate figure is a figure having a matching rate with the reference figure of 20% or more and less than 100%. However, the definition of the approximate figure is not limited to this. For example, a figure having a matching rate with the reference figure of 50% or more and less than 100% may be defined as an approximate figure. The calculation unit 223 calculates a matching score for each of the input classification information based on the matching rate between the searched same figure or approximate figure and the reference figure. In addition, the matching score is an index indicating the degree of matching between the whole or part of the figure of the graphic trademark related to the image data input to the input unit 21 and the reference figure. For example, if the two are identical (i.e., the match rate is 100%), the match score is 100. If the match rate is 50%, the match score is 50. In this way, the more similar the two are (i.e., the higher the match rate), the higher the match score.

The determination unit 224 determines a combination using multiple classification information whose matching scores calculated by the calculation unit 223 are equal to or greater than a first predetermined value. In this embodiment, the first predetermined value is 50. However, the first predetermined value is not limited to 50, and may be between 0 and 100. The determination unit 224 combines two or more Vienna Classification codes with different major classifications. In other words, the determination unit 224 does not combine Vienna Classification codes with the same major classification, such as Vienna Classification code 26.3.2 and Vienna Classification code 26.3.2. The determination unit 224 transmits the determined combination of classification information to the acquisition unit 23.

Based on the combination received from the determination unit 224, the acquisition unit 23 acquires from the trademark database 10 a prior application trademark including multiple classification information items whose matching score is equal to or greater than a first predetermined value. The acquisition unit 23 transmits prior application trademark information related to the acquired prior application trademark to the generation unit 225. The prior application trademark information includes at least the application number, registration number, and Vienna Classification code related to the prior application trademark. However, the prior application trademark information may include other information such as the trademark, classification, designated goods and services, similar group code, applicant name, right holder name, application date, registration date, and status related to the prior application trademark. In this embodiment, the prior application trademark information includes the applicant name, right holder name, application number, registration number, trademark, and Vienna Classification code related to the prior application trademark.

The generating unit 225 generates similarity information indicating the similarity between the prior application trademark acquired by the acquiring unit 23 and the graphic trademark related to the image data input to the input unit 21 for each prior application trademark acquired by the acquiring unit 23 based on the classification information (in this embodiment, the Vienna Classification code) included in the prior application trademark acquired by the acquiring unit 23 among the multiple classification information input to the input unit 21. In other words, the generating unit 225 generates similarity information for each prior application trademark acquired by the acquiring unit 23 based on multiple classification information included in the combination used by the acquiring unit 23 when acquiring the prior application trademark. Note that in this embodiment, the generating unit 225 generates similarity information based only on the matching score related to the classification information for which the matching score was calculated. As an example, the similarity information related to the prior application trademark acquired by the acquiring unit 23 based on the combination consisting of the Vienna Classification code 1.7.6 and the Vienna Classification code 23.1.5 will be described. Note that in this case, the matching score of the Vienna Classification code 1.7.6 is 80, and the matching score of the Vienna Classification code 23.1.5 is 50. In this case, the generating unit 225 generates similarity information indicating that the similarity between the acquired prior application trademark and the graphic trademark being investigated is 65 (= (80 + 50) / 2). Thus, the similarity in this embodiment is the average value of multiple matching scores related to multiple classification information included in the combination used by the acquiring unit 23 when acquiring the prior application trademark. However, the similarity is not limited to the average value of multiple matching scores related to multiple classification information included in the combination used by the acquiring unit 23 when acquiring the prior application trademark. Note that in this embodiment, the generating unit 225 generates similarity information without considering the similarity of the designated goods and services. This is because, for example, the designated goods and services are not necessarily determined at the pre-application search stage. However, the generating unit 225 may generate similarity information while also considering the similarity of the designated goods and services.

The generating unit 225 generates display data based on the prior application trademark information received from the acquiring unit 23 and the similarity information generated by the generating unit 225. The display data generated by the generating unit 225 includes the prior application trademark related to the prior application trademark information received from the acquiring unit 23 and the similarity related to the prior application trademark. The generating unit 225 transmits the generated display data to the display unit 24 or the output unit 25.

The display unit 24 is, for example, a touch screen display such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display. The display unit 24 is configured to display the display data received from the generation unit 225, for example.

The output unit 25 outputs the display data received from the generation unit 225 to the user terminal device 30.

The user terminal device 30 is a terminal device operated by a user of the support device 20. The user terminal device 30 is, for example, an electronic device such as a desktop PC, a notebook PC, a tablet terminal, or a smartphone. The user terminal device 30 is equipped with a display unit 31. The display unit 31 is, for example, a liquid crystal display. The display unit 31 is configured to display display data output from the output unit 25, for example.

Next, referring to Figures 3 to 6, the processing related to the method for supporting a graphic trademark search executed by the support device 20 will be described. Note that in order to make it easier for the user's research perspective to be reflected in the research of a graphic trademark, the reference figure in this embodiment is a figure arbitrarily set by the user. Also, in order to clarify the research perspective of the research of a graphic trademark, the reference figure in this embodiment is a figure that includes only graphic elements that are linked to only one classification information (Vienna Classification code). Figure 3 is a flow chart illustrating the processing executed by the support device 20 in this embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 3, the user inputs image data of the figurative trademark to be investigated and multiple pieces of classification information into the input unit 21 (STEP 01). Here, FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of an input screen in this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 4, in this embodiment, the user inputs image data of the figurative trademark 100 and multiple pieces of classification information (Vienna Classification Codes 1.7.6, 23.1.5, 26.3.2, 26.4.2, and 26.4.3). The figurative trademark 100 includes a crescent-shaped moon figure 110 and a diamond-shaped rhombus figure 120. The rhombus figure 120 includes a first triangular figure 121 and a second triangular figure 122. The input unit 21 transmits the input image data and multiple pieces of classification information to the control unit 22.

As illustrated in FIG. 3, the identification unit 222 identifies a reference figure corresponding to each of the multiple classification information pieces received from the input unit 21 (STEP 02). In this embodiment, Vienna Classification codes 1.7.6, 23.1.5, 26.3.2, 26.4.2, and 26.4.3 are input to the input unit 21, and therefore the identification unit 222 identifies a reference figure (e.g., figure D1 illustrated in FIG. 2) corresponding to each of these Vienna Classification codes for each Vienna Classification code. Note that if there are multiple reference figures corresponding to the classification information (Vienna Classification codes) input to the input unit 21, the identification unit 222 identifies the multiple reference figures.

As illustrated in FIG. 3, the calculation unit 223 calculates a matching score for each piece of classification information input to the input unit 21 based on the image data input to the input unit 21 and the reference figure identified by the identification unit 222 (STEP 03). Note that when multiple reference figures are identified for one piece of classification information, the calculation unit 223 calculates a matching score for each reference figure, and calculates the highest matching score among them as the matching score corresponding to that classification information.

For example, in the case of Vienna Classification code 1.7.6, the calculation unit 223 searches for a moon figure 110 from within the figurative trademark 100. The calculation unit 223 compares the moon figure 110 with figure D1 and determines the degree of similarity between the external shapes of the moon figure 110 and figure D1. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the degree of similarity between the moon figure 110 and figure D1 is 80%. Since the degree of similarity between the moon figure 110 and figure D1 is 80%, the moon figure 110 is an approximate figure. As shown in the example of FIG. 5, the calculation unit 223 calculates a degree of similarity score of 80 for the Vienna Classification code 1.7.6.

For example, in the case of Vienna Classification Code 26.3.2, the calculation unit 223 searches for a diamond shape 120 including a first triangular shape 121 and a second triangular shape 122 from within the figurative trademark 100. The calculation unit 223 compares the diamond shape 120 with a shape D3 (see FIG. 2) and determines the degree of matching between the outlines of the diamond shape 120 and the shape D3. In this embodiment, the degree of matching between the diamond shape 120 and the shape D3 is 90%. Since the degree of matching between the diamond shape 120 and the shape D3 is 90%, the diamond shape 120 is an approximate shape. As illustrated in FIG. 5, the calculation unit 223 calculates a degree of matching score of 90 as the degree of matching score related to Vienna Classification Code 26.3.2. Based on a similar principle, the calculation unit 223 also calculates the degree of matching scores related to Vienna Classification Codes 23.1.5, 26.4.2, and 26.4.3. In this embodiment, the matching score for Vienna Classification code 23.1.5 is 50. The matching score for Vienna Classification code 26.4.2 is 40. The matching score for Vienna Classification code 26.4.3 is 60. The calculation unit 223 transmits the calculated matching scores to the determination unit 224.

3, the determination unit 224 determines a combination using multiple classification information whose matching score is equal to or greater than a first predetermined value (STEP 04). In this embodiment, the determination unit 224 determines a combination consisting of two classification information (Vienna classification code). In this embodiment, the first predetermined value is 50, so the determination unit 224 determines a combination using Vienna classification codes 1.7.6, 23.1.5, 26.3.2, and 26.4.3. The determination unit 224 also combines multiple Vienna classification codes with different major classifications. Therefore, the combinations in this embodiment are the combination of Vienna classification code 1.7.6 and Vienna classification code 23.1.5, the combination of Vienna classification code 1.7.6 and Vienna classification code 26.3.2, the combination of Vienna classification code 1.7.6 and Vienna classification code 26.4.3, the combination of Vienna classification code 23.1.5 and Vienna classification code 26.3.2, and the combination of Vienna classification code 23.1.5 and Vienna classification code 26.4.3. The determination unit 224 transmits the determined combination of Vienna classification codes to the acquisition unit 23.

The acquisition unit 23 acquires, from the trademark database 10, prior application trademarks including the Vienna Classification code for each combination based on the combination of Vienna Classification codes received from the determination unit 224 (STEP 05). For example, when acquiring prior application trademarks from the Japan Patent Office database based on a combination of Vienna Classification code 1.7.6 and Vienna Classification code 26.3.2, the acquisition unit 23 acquires prior application trademarks including both Vienna Classification code 1.7.6 and Vienna Classification code 26.3.2 from among the prior application trademarks stored in the Japan Patent Office database. The acquisition unit 23 transmits prior application trademark information related to the acquired prior application trademark to the generation unit 225.

The generating unit 225 generates similarity information indicating the degree of similarity between the prior application trademark acquired by the acquiring unit 23 and the graphic trademark being investigated for each prior application trademark acquired by the acquiring unit 23 based on the Vienna Classification code (an example of classification information) included in the prior application trademark information received from the acquiring unit 23 (STEP 06). For example, for a prior application trademark acquired based on a combination of Vienna Classification code 1.7.6 and Vienna Classification code 26.3.2, the generating unit 225 generates similarity information indicating that the similarity of the prior application trademark is 85 (= (80 + 90) / 2).

Based on the prior application trademark information received from the acquisition unit 23 and the generated similarity information, the generation unit 225 generates display data including the prior application trademark acquired by the acquisition unit 23 and the similarity related to the prior application trademark acquired by the acquisition unit 23 (STEP 07). The generation unit 225 transmits the generated display data to the display unit 24 or the output unit 25. When the generation unit 225 transmits the display data to the output unit 25, the output unit 25 outputs the display data received from the generation unit 225 to the user terminal device 30.

When the display data is transmitted to the display unit 24 or output to the user terminal device 30, the display data is displayed on the display unit 24 of the support device 20 or the display unit 31 of the user terminal device 30 (STEP 08). As illustrated in FIG. 6, in this embodiment, the display data is displayed in a list format on the display unit 24 of the support device 20 or the display unit 31 of the user terminal device 30. The list illustrated in FIG. 6 includes three prior trademarks. In the list illustrated in FIG. 6, the application number or registration number of the prior trademark, the applicant or right holder, the trademark, the Vienna Classification code, and the similarity are displayed, but for example, only a part of these may be displayed, or other information (e.g., classification, etc.) may be displayed in addition to these. By visually checking the display data displayed on the display unit 24 of the support device 20 or the display unit 31 of the user terminal device 30, the user can check the prior trademarks that may be the same or similar to the figurative trademark being investigated in a list.

For example, when investigating whether there is a prior trademark identical or similar to a figurative trademark to be applied for, the investigation is carried out using Vienna Classification codes. Generally, when investigating figurative trademarks using only one Vienna Classification code, a huge number of prior trademarks are often detected. In this case, the detected prior trademarks may include many prior trademarks that appear to be dissimilar to the figurative trademark to be applied for, which is not desirable. On the other hand, when investigating figurative trademarks by combining many Vienna Classification codes, the number of prior trademarks detected decreases. However, when investigating figurative trademarks by combining more Vienna Classification codes than necessary, there is a high possibility that some trademarks will be overlooked. For this reason, when investigating figurative trademarks, the user selects multiple Vienna Classification codes that seem to be related to the figurative trademark to be applied for, and then combines several (for example, two) Vienna Classification codes from them to investigate the figurative trademark. In other words, when investigating figurative trademarks, it is necessary to conduct the investigation using multiple Vienna Classification codes that are appropriate in terms of content and quantity. It is also possible to conduct searches of figurative trademarks using a device that automatically assigns Vienna Classification codes simply by inputting image data relating to the figurative trademark to be applied for, but it is difficult for such devices to conduct searches that reflect the user's research perspective. In particular, with such devices, the internal processes, such as the automatic assignment of Vienna Classification codes, are often treated as black boxes, making it difficult for users to recognize the research perspective used in the search conducted by the device.

According to the graphic trademark research support device 20 having the above configuration, a matching score is calculated for each classification information based on a reference figure corresponding to the inputted multiple classification information, and a prior application trademark including multiple classification information whose matching score is equal to or greater than a first predetermined value is obtained from the trademark database 10. In other words, the matching score calculated by the support device 20 is based on the multiple classification information inputted by the user, and the matching score for the multiple classification information used when obtaining the prior application trademark from the trademark database 10 is equal to or greater than a first predetermined value. Therefore, the support device 20 can support the research of graphic trademarks using multiple appropriate classification information while reflecting the user's research viewpoint. In addition, the information processing method, computer program, and computer-readable medium having the above configuration can also achieve the same effect as that achieved by the support device 20.

Furthermore, according to the support device 20 for graphic trademark research having the above configuration, the reference figure is a figure that includes only graphic elements that are linked to only one piece of classification information. Therefore, only one piece of classification information (Vienna Classification code) is linked to the reference figure, and multiple pieces of classification information are not linked. Therefore, the support device 20 can support the investigation of graphic trademarks from a clear research perspective.

In addition, according to the graphic trademark research support device 20 having the above configuration, the reference figure is a figure arbitrarily set by the user, and does not have to be set based on the Vienna Classification code that is actually assigned to the applied trademark. Therefore, the support device 20 can support the user in conducting a research that reflects the user's research perspective.

In addition, according to the graphic trademark research support device 20 having the above configuration, the calculation unit 223 generates similarity information indicating the similarity between the prior application trademark and the graphic trademark acquired by the acquisition unit 23 for each prior application trademark acquired by the acquisition unit 23, based on multiple classification information included in the prior application trademark acquired by the acquisition unit 23 out of multiple classification information input to the input unit 21. Therefore, by using the similarity information, the user can intuitively recognize the prior application trademark that is likely to be the same as or similar to the graphic trademark being investigated.

Furthermore, according to the support device 20 for graphic trademark research having the above configuration, the acquisition unit 23 acquires a prior-filed trademark including two pieces of classification information with a matching score equal to or greater than a first predetermined value. Generally, if only one piece of classification information is used in a graphic trademark research, the number of prior-filed trademarks acquired becomes enormous, which is not desirable, but if more classification information than necessary is used in a graphic trademark research, there is a risk that some trademarks will be missed in the research. In this embodiment, taking such circumstances into consideration, the acquisition unit 23 is configured to acquire a prior-filed trademark including two pieces of classification information with a matching score equal to or greater than a first predetermined value. Therefore, according to the support device 20, it is possible to suppress both the risk of acquiring a huge number of prior-filed trademarks, including prior-filed trademarks that appear to be dissimilar at a glance, and the risk of some trademarks being missed in the research.

In addition, according to the support device 20 for graphic trademark research having the above configuration, the acquisition unit 23 acquires prior application trademarks including multiple classification information with different major classifications from the trademark database 10. Therefore, according to the support device 20, it is possible to support the research of graphic trademarks using multiple more appropriate classification information.

The support device 20 for graphic trademark research having the above configuration also includes a memory unit 221 in which a reference figure associated with each classification information is stored. The calculation unit 223 also calculates a matching score for each classification information based on the image data input to the input unit 21 and the reference figure stored in the memory unit 221 that corresponds to the classification information input to the input unit 21. Therefore, the support device 20 can support the research of graphic trademarks even if a reference figure is not input to the input unit 21, simply by inputting image data of the graphic trademark to be researched and multiple classification information to the input unit 21. Therefore, the support device 20 can reduce the input burden on the user.

The above embodiments are intended to facilitate understanding of the present disclosure and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. This disclosure may be modified or improved without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

In this embodiment, the display data generated by the generating unit 225 includes all the prior application trademarks acquired by the acquiring unit 23, but may include only the prior application trademarks whose similarity is equal to or greater than the second predetermined value. Therefore, in this case, the similarity related to the prior application trademark included in the display data generated by the generating unit 225 is equal to or greater than the second predetermined value. The second predetermined value is, for example, 60. However, it goes without saying that the second predetermined value is not limited to 60. When the second predetermined value is 60, the display data illustrated in FIG. 7 is displayed on the display unit 24 of the support device 20 or the display unit 31 of the user terminal device 30. The display data illustrated in FIG. 7 differs from the display data illustrated in FIG. 6 in that the prior application trademark related to Trademark Registration No. 3452689, whose similarity is 55, is not displayed. Thus, in this example, the generating unit 225 generates display data including only the prior application trademark whose similarity is equal to or greater than the second predetermined value. For this reason, the display data generated by the generation unit 225 includes only prior-filed trademarks that have a certain degree of similarity to the graphic trademark being investigated, i.e., prior-filed trademarks that need to be checked carefully. Therefore, with such a support device 20, the user only needs to check prior-filed trademarks that have a certain degree of similarity to the graphic trademark being investigated, which reduces the burden on the user when checking an acquired prior-filed trademark and enables the user to efficiently check the acquired prior-filed trademark.

In this embodiment, the input unit 21 is input with image data of the graphic trademark to be surveyed and multiple classification information, but as illustrated in FIG. 8, the input unit 21 may also be input with image data, multiple classification information, and a reference figure corresponding to the classification information. That is, in STEP 01 illustrated in FIG. 3, the user may input image data of the graphic trademark to be surveyed, multiple classification information, and a reference figure corresponding to the classification information to the input unit 21. In this case, the calculation unit 223 calculates a matching score for each classification information based on the image data input to the input unit 21 and the reference figure input to the input unit 21. Therefore, even if the reference figure database 40 is not stored in the storage unit 221, the support device 20 can support the survey of graphic trademarks using multiple appropriate classification information while reflecting the user's viewpoint of survey.

In the above embodiment, the list shown in FIG. 6 includes three prior trademarks, but the number of prior trademarks included in the list may be less than three or may be four or more.

In the above embodiment, an example was described in which the Vienna Classification Code was used as classification information, but classification information other than the Vienna Classification Code may also be used.

In the above embodiment, the determination unit 224 determines a combination consisting of two Vienna Classification codes, but the determination unit 224 may also determine a combination consisting of three or more Vienna Classification codes.

In the above embodiment, the generation unit 225 generates similarity information indicating the similarity between the prior trademark acquired by the acquisition unit 23 and the graphic trademark being investigated, but it is not necessary to generate similarity information.

In the above embodiment, the acquisition unit 23 acquires from the trademark database 10 a prior application trademark that includes multiple classification information with different major classifications, but it may also acquire from the trademark database 10 a prior application trademark that includes multiple classification information with the same major classification.

In the above embodiment, the support device 20 may include a storage device 27, as shown by the dashed line in FIG. 1. The storage device 27 is, for example, a storage device (storage) such as a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), or a flash memory. The storage device 27 is configured to store programs and various data, and may store a reference figure database 40. When the reference figure database 40 is stored in the storage device 27, the storage device 27 is an example of a storage unit. In this case, the reference figure database 40 does not need to be stored in the storage unit 221. The reference figure database 40 may also be stored in an external database. In this case, the support device 20 acquires a plurality of reference figures corresponding to a plurality of classification information input to the input unit 21 from the external database.

In the above embodiment, the reference figure is a figure arbitrarily set by the user, but it may be a figure set by a party other than the user. A party other than the user may be, for example, a service provider related to trademarks. Even in this case, it is preferable that the reference figure be set by a party other than a designated government agency such as a patent office or trademark office of each country.

In the above embodiment, the reference figure is a figure that includes only graphic elements that are linked to only one classification information, but it may also be a figure that includes graphic elements that are linked to two or more classification information.

In the above embodiment, the acquisition unit 23 acquires the earlier filed trademark from the database of the Japan Patent Office, but it may also acquire the earlier filed trademark from other trademark databases, such as the database of the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

As described above, the present specification discloses the following:
(1) an input unit for inputting at least image data of a figurative trademark to be searched and a plurality of classification information to be used in the search of said figurative trademark;
a calculation unit that calculates a matching score for each of the classification information based on the image data input to the input unit and a reference figure corresponding to the classification information input to the input unit;
An apparatus for supporting graphic trademark research, comprising: an acquisition unit that acquires from a trademark database prior-filed trademarks including a plurality of said classification information, the said matching score of which is equal to or greater than a first predetermined value.
(2) The device for supporting graphic trademark research described in (1), wherein the reference graphic is a graphic that includes only graphic elements that are linked to only one of the classification information.
(3) The device for supporting graphic trademark research according to (1) or (2), wherein the reference graphic is a graphic arbitrarily set by a user.
(4) A graphic trademark research support device described in any one of (1) to (3), further comprising a generation unit that generates similarity information indicating the similarity between the prior application trademark acquired by the acquisition unit and the graphic trademark for each prior application trademark acquired by the acquisition unit, based on a plurality of classification information included in the prior application trademark acquired by the acquisition unit among the plurality of classification information input to the input unit.
(5) the generating unit generates display data including the earlier filed trademark and the similarity degree related to the earlier filed trademark;
The device for supporting graphic trademark research according to (4), wherein the similarity is equal to or greater than a second predetermined value.
(6) A graphic trademark research support device described in any one of (1) to (5), wherein the acquisition unit acquires from a trademark database prior-filed trademarks including two pieces of classification information whose matching score is equal to or greater than the first predetermined value.
(7) The classification information includes at least a major classification,
The device for supporting graphic trademark research according to any one of (1) to (6), wherein the acquisition unit acquires the prior application trademark including a plurality of classification information with different major classifications from a trademark database.
(8) A storage unit is provided in which the reference figures are stored in correspondence with each of the classification information.
A graphic trademark research support device described in any one of (1) to (7), wherein the calculation unit calculates the matching score for each classification information based on the image data input to the input unit and the reference figure stored in the memory unit corresponding to the classification information input to the input unit.
(9) The image data, a plurality of pieces of classification information, and the reference figure corresponding to the classification information are input to the input unit,
A graphic trademark research support device described in any one of (1) to (7), wherein the calculation unit calculates the matching score for each classification information based on the image data input to the input unit and the reference figure input to the input unit.
(10) A computer-implemented method for assisting in graphic trademark research, comprising the steps of:
A step of inputting at least image data of a figurative trademark to be searched and a plurality of classification information to be used in the search of said figurative trademark;
calculating a matching score for each of the classification information based on the input image data and a reference figure corresponding to the input classification information;
A method for supporting graphic trademark research, comprising a step of retrieving from a trademark database prior-filed trademarks including a plurality of said classification information whose matching scores are equal to or greater than a first predetermined value.
(11) A computer program comprising at least one instruction to be executed by a processor of a device for assisting in graphic trademark research,
At least one of the instructions, when executed by the processor, causes the support device to:
Calculating a matching score for each of the classification information based on image data input to an input unit of the support device and a reference figure corresponding to the plurality of classification information input to the input unit;
A computer program for retrieving from a trademark database prior-filed trademarks including a plurality of said classification information whose matching scores are equal to or greater than a first predetermined value.
(12) A computer-readable medium having the computer program described in (11) stored thereon.

1: Support system 10: Trademark database 20: Support device 21: Input unit 22: Control unit 23: Acquisition unit 24: Display unit 25: Output unit 26: Bus 27: Storage device 30: User terminal device 31: Display unit 221: Storage unit 222: Identification unit 223: Calculation unit 224: Determination unit 225: Generation unit

Claims (12)

an input unit for inputting at least image data of a figurative trademark to be investigated and a plurality of classification information to be used in investigating the figurative trademark;
a calculation unit that calculates a matching score for each of the classification information based on the image data input to the input unit and a reference figure corresponding to the classification information input to the input unit;
An apparatus for supporting graphic trademark research, comprising: an acquisition unit that acquires from a trademark database prior-filed trademarks including a plurality of said classification information, the said matching score of which is equal to or greater than a first predetermined value. The device for supporting graphic trademark research according to claim 1, wherein the reference graphic is a graphic that includes only graphic elements that are linked to only one of the classification information. The device for supporting graphic trademark research according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the reference graphic is a graphic arbitrarily set by the user. The device for supporting graphic trademark research according to claim 1 or claim 2 further comprises a generating unit that generates similarity information indicating the similarity between the prior application trademark acquired by the acquiring unit and the graphic trademark for each of the prior application trademarks acquired by the acquiring unit, based on a plurality of classification information included in the prior application trademark acquired by the acquiring unit among the plurality of classification information input to the input unit. the generating unit generates display data including the earlier filed trademark and the similarity degree related to the earlier filed trademark;
5. The apparatus for supporting graphic trademark research according to claim 4, wherein said similarity is equal to or greater than a second predetermined value. The device for supporting graphic trademark research according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the acquisition unit acquires from a trademark database prior application trademarks including two pieces of classification information whose matching scores are equal to or greater than the first predetermined value. The classification information includes at least a major classification,
3. The device for supporting graphic trademark research according to claim 1, wherein the acquisition unit acquires the prior application trademark including a plurality of pieces of classification information having different major classifications from a trademark database. a storage unit in which the reference figures corresponding to each of the classification information are stored,
The graphic trademark research support device of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the calculation unit calculates the matching score for each of the classification information based on the image data input to the input unit and the reference figure stored in the memory unit corresponding to the classification information input to the input unit. The image data, a plurality of pieces of classification information, and the reference figure corresponding to the classification information are input to the input unit,
The graphic trademark research support device of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the calculation unit calculates the matching score for each of the classification information based on the image data input to the input unit and the reference graphic input to the input unit. 1. A computer implemented method for assisting in graphic trademark searching, comprising:
A step of inputting at least image data of a figurative trademark to be searched and a plurality of classification information to be used in the search of said figurative trademark;
calculating a matching score for each of the classification information based on the input image data and a reference figure corresponding to the input classification information;
A method for supporting graphic trademark research, comprising a step of retrieving from a trademark database prior-filed trademarks including a plurality of said classification information whose matching scores are equal to or greater than a first predetermined value. 1. A computer program comprising at least one instruction for execution by a processor of an apparatus for assisting in graphic trademark research,
At least one of the instructions, when executed by the processor, causes the support device to:
Calculating a matching score for each of the classification information based on the image data input to the input unit of the support device and a reference figure corresponding to the plurality of classification information input to the input unit;
A computer program for retrieving from a trademark database prior-filed trademarks including a plurality of said classification information whose matching scores are equal to or greater than a first predetermined value. A computer-readable medium on which the computer program of claim 11 is stored.

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