Computer Case Modding Contest Advice

[Lenny Pendilla]

Torrance, California

I'm a computer case modder. I design computer cases for asthetic purposes. It's more of an artform than anything else right now. I have a computer case that I've designed and themed around the oh so popular Red Bull Energy Drink. I plan on entering this contest here. http://www.techtv.com/screensavers/story/0,24330,3498856,00.html The problem, and I'm hoping it's not a problem, is that if i hypothetically make it as a finalist, I'll be featured on their website. If i win the contest, my computer will be featured on one of their Screen Saver segments. With Red Bull's logo being shown off, could there be a lawsuit pit against me because of copyright, patent or trademark infingement?...if so, any recomendations how i can go about covering my arse?

Lenny Pendilla

 

[divgradcurl]

Find out what Red Bull's Trademark usage policy is -- you may need permission from Red Bull to use the logo. You're not doing this for profit, right? In that case, it's free advertising for them, why don't you simply ask for their permission?

 

[Lenny Pendilla]

Looks pretty harsh. I might have to ask for written permission. This is what I copied from their website.

Corporate Identification and Trademarks

All registered and/or unregistered trademarks and/or service marks (collectively, "Marks") used or referred to on this website are the property of Red Bull, its parent, and affiliates unless otherwise noted. Users may not use, copy, reproduce, republish, upload, post, transmit, distribute or modify these Marks in any way for any purpose without Red Bull's prior written permission The use of Red Bull's Marks on any other website is prohibited

Any thoughts?

 

[divgradcurl]

Call them, email them, or send them a letter, and ask for permission to enter this specific event. Since you're not making a profit on this, for them, its free advertising, and they may be cool with it.

If you contact them by phone or by email and they give you permission, follow up with a letter, certified return receipt, to the person that gave you permission detailing your understanding of the agreement. This leaves a paper trail, which can come in handy is someone "forgets" about their oral or email commitment...

Good luck!

BTW, that trademark usage policy really isn't "harsh" -- its actually pretty typical.

 

[Lenny Pendilla]

Thanks so much for your advice divgradcurl. Your insight on the subject matter has definitely shown me things I haven't seen before. You will not be fogotten when I become rich and famous. And you can take that to the bank-=]

Lenny