Design Protection for Automotive Interiors: Bridging Design Practice and Locarno Classification

Wonjoon Yoon, Jieun Kim

The automotive interior has become the industry’s pivotal competitive advantage, serving as the crucial source for novel in-car experiences and brand differentiation. However, existing design patent classification systems, such as the Locarno Classification (LOC), fail to adequately capture these contemporary design innovations. This limitation severely compromises their design protection, increasing the likelihood of misclassification, unintentional infringement, and complex examination processes while complicating effective competitive trend analysis. To address this challenge, this study proposes the Automotive Interior Design Classification (AIDC) system. The AIDC features a four-depth matrix structure that incorporates both physical and multimodal elements, such as graphical user interfaces and ambient lighting. The system’s practical and taxonomic utility was validated by core user groups, including designers, IP analysts, patent attorneys, and examiners. A case study applying the AIDC to the design patent portfolios of ten traditional and emerging car companies highlights its utility by facilitating the analysis of design trends and competitors. These findings underscore its potential to bridge the gap between emerging design practices and the LOC for safeguarding automotive interior design.