Washington Mutual Patents the Bank Branch

ewhac writes "Okay, so it's not a bank branch per se, but a particular kind of bank branch -- one that has play areas for kids, serves coffee and popcorn, and has kiosks instead of teller windows. Washington Mutual has dubbed this branch design, "Occasio" (a generic Latin word meaning, "favorable opportunity," and which has probably been trademarked). The San Francisco Chronicle reports that it may be the first time the USPTO has awarded a patent for the design of a retail store/presence."

Comments

Since when is environment patentable?

[Crudely_Indecent]

I can understand patenting logos, designs, even shoe tread patterns.........but furniture layout?

Ok, I'm going to file for my own patent. I'll call it "Geek Apartment" and it will consist of empty soda cans, dirty laundry, an unmade bed, and between 6 and 14 computers in various states of assembly (all running however).

There's your fair warning, soon you'll all be paying me royalties, or cleaning your apartments.

Re:Since when is environment patentable?

[kunudo]

I think there might be some prior art on that one... :)

However, I have a feeling that that won't stop the USPTO from awarding you your patent...

Re:Physical design

[Vicegrip]

A 20 year monopoly on the arrangment of 'stuff' is ok with you?

By the way, I hope you are not infringing my patent on "poor taste furniture" covering such things such as the use of duct tape to cover broken springs.

Also, if you hang up your towels next to your shower, I'm going to sue.

Outta hand

[nurb432]

When do we get to hear about a patent awarded for " a method of refreshing spent oxygen in the blood stream of mammals".