Glossary T

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TechSource
TechSource is an electronic patent system which holds the scanned images of over 1.5 million patent documents dating back to 1920 and the text version of the documents from 1978.
Trade-mark
A word, or design (or combination of these), used to distinguish the wares or services of one person or organization from those of others in the marketplace.
Trade-marks Act
Federal legislation governing trade-mark registration in Canada.
Trade-mark agent
A trade-mark agent is a person who advises a client on trade-mark matters (see also Registered Trade-mark Agent).
Trade-mark document
A document showing the wares and services identified by a certain trade-mark along with other information from a trade-mark file with the Trade-marks Office.
Trade-marks Journal
A publication of the Trade-marks Office issued weekly and containing all approved applications and office rulings.
Trade-mark law
The law relating to trade-marks.
Trade-marks Office
The office that determines whether an owner is entitled to the exclusive use of a trade-mark for a specific set of wares or services. The Trade-marks Office is also known as CIPO's Trade-marks Branch. The Branch keeps the trade-marks register, which is a record of all trade-marks registered in Canada. The Branch also discloses information on trade-marks to increase awareness and provides owners with the information they need to protect their marks. The Branch examines trade-mark applications for registration to ensure they meet all the requirements of the Trade-marks Act. Trade-marks which meet the requirements of the Act are published in the weekly Trade-marks Journal. If unopposed, the trade-marks may be registered.
Trade-mark right
The exclusive right an owner of a trade-mark has to control its use in association with the product or service it identifies.
Trade-mark search
A thorough search of various trade-mark databases, business directories, telephone directories and the like, to verify that your trade-mark will not be mistaken for another. It is a form of research that assists in determining whether your mark fulfils the criteria of the Trade-marks Act. A trade-mark search also helps you to determine whether your application has a chance for success and provides peace of mind in order for you to avoid infringing other people's trade-marks.
Trade secrets
Trade secrets are usually formulas, patterns, compilations, devices, processes, codes, data that are specific to its owner, give him or her a business advantage over a competitor and are kept secret or confidential.
Trade union
A trade union is an organization of employees formed for the purpose of maintaining or improving their rights, privileges and interests for work related issues.