Submitting an i-DEPOT There is no legal system in place for protecting ideas. Submitting an i-DEPOT at an early phase of an innovative activity is one means of preventing another person from using a work to the detriment of its inventor. Should a dispute arise, the i-DEPOT is a reliable means of proving the existence of an idea, concept or process at a specific date. The Benelux Office for Intellectual Property keepts the i-DEPOT for a period of 5 to 10 years. The i-DEPOT service allows the following to be put on record: an idea a concept a format an agreement a document a prototype an invention a process a creation a software programme a photo a model a melody a design a slogan etc The i-DEPOT can be used as an important first stage in an innovation process, for example in the phase preceding the application to register a trademark, design or patent. However, it should be noted that the i-DEPOT does not give rise to an intellectual property right.
