What is the title of the second patent relevant to the Gokhale Method franchise?
Gokhale_Method Franchise · 2024 FDDAnswer from 2024 FDD Document
The second patent is titled "Cushion Device." It is a design patent bearing number D604,084, issued November 17, 2009 for 17 years. This patent covers an ornamental design for a cushion device.
Source: Item 14 — PATENTS, COPYRIGHTS, AND PROPRIETARY INFORMATION (FDD pages 25–26)
What This Means (2024 FDD)
According to the 2024 Gokhale Method FDD, the second patent relevant to the franchise is titled "Cushion Device." This is a design patent, bearing the number D604,084, and was issued on November 17, 2009, for a period of 17 years. This patent specifically covers the ornamental design for a cushion device.
As a Gokhale Method franchisee, you may use products covered by these patents in your classes and sell them to students or members of the public. However, it's important to note that franchisees do not acquire rights to the underlying intellectual property itself. The FDD also clarifies that Gokhale Method Institute, Inc. is not obligated to protect these patents or indemnify franchisees if they are sued for infringement related to the patented products.
Prospective franchisees should be aware that the franchise agreement does not provide any rights if Gokhale Method decides to modify or discontinue the patented products. Therefore, understanding the terms and conditions related to intellectual property is crucial before investing in a Gokhale Method franchise.