This subject introduces the student to the legal aspects of product design through the consideration and analysis of legal principle, statute law and case law. The aim of this module is to provide the student with a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the substantive law, legislation and legal aspects of product design and development.
Introduction and Legal Context: Nature and Purpose of Law, Legal Systems – National and International
Liability of Manufacturers’ and Producers’ for Defective Products: Tort Concepts, Distinction between ‘Dangerous’ and ‘Non-Dangerous’ Defects, Liability for Defective Products Act, 1991, Health and Safety, Common Law and Statutory Rights of Action, Remedies
Copyright: Theory, Legislation, International law, Ownership/ Rights of Ownership, Licences, Infringement, Defences, Remedies (Civil & Criminal), Moral Rights
Patents: Rationale/Theory, International law, Legislation, Patent Applications, Form and Procedure, Property Rights, Licences, Infringement and Remedies
Trademarks: Nature and Definition, Registration Procedure, Refusal Controller of Patents, Designs & Trademarks, Rights of Ownership, Domain Names, Infringement, Defences, Remedies
Design Law: Nature and Definition, Registration and invalidation, Protection, Ownership, Infringement, Defences, Remedies
Contract Law: Legal Principles and Concepts, Formation of Contract, Invalidity, Discharge, Breach, Contractual Remedies
Employment Law: Contracts of Employment, Employer/employee Relationship, Formation of the Contract of Employment, Terms of the Contract of Employment, Duties of Employer/Duties of Employee, Termination of the Employment Contract, Health and Safety, Remedies for Breach, Protective Legislation
