For many homeowners struggling with cluttered kitchen countertops and cramped bathroom corners, rotating storage racks have emerged as an ideal organizational solution. However, this seemingly simple household item now sits at the center of a legal dispute that underscores the hidden risks of product design patents.
Seller Kundian Guo recently filed a lawsuit against merchants selling rotating storage racks, alleging patent infringement (Case No. 25-cv-1951). The case highlights the growing importance of intellectual property protection in everyday consumer products.
The Patent at Issue
The lawsuit centers on U.S. Design Patent USD1,047,592S, which protects the specific ornamental design of a rotating storage rack. Products bearing substantially similar visual characteristics may constitute infringement, regardless of their functional attributes.
These popular organizers typically feature a rotating base mechanism, often incorporating ball bearings or other rotational components that enable 360-degree movement. The design effectively maximizes corner space utilization while improving accessibility and maintaining cleanliness.
Design Similarity Risks
The very features that make these products commercially successful—their practical rotation mechanism and space-saving form—also make them vulnerable to patent disputes. Legal experts emphasize that visual resemblance to the patented design, not just functional equivalence, determines infringement.
While the case remains in preliminary stages without significant developments, sellers of rotating storage racks are advised to conduct immediate inventory reviews. Key design elements requiring careful comparison include:
• The rotating base mechanism
• Overall product silhouette
• Decorative or functional design features
Proactive Measures Recommended
Merchants discovering potential similarities should consider removing affected products to mitigate legal exposure. Aptum Law, representing the plaintiff, cautions sellers to prioritize intellectual property due diligence during product selection and sales processes.
The case serves as a reminder that patent infringement risks extend beyond technical inventions to include product aesthetics. Comprehensive patent research and design analysis remain essential for maintaining compliant business operations in competitive markets.