JJ isn't "patenting" DIR, like you would an invention--Halcyon has filed for trademark protection. A trademark is simply a recognized word or phrase that people begin to readily associate with a particular product or service. Bounty towels are know as "the quicker picker upper" in their adds. They've likely filed for trademark protection which means Scott towels can't use the phrase "quicker picker upper" in their advertising.
Frankly, it's a smart business move on Halcyon's part to do this because DIR is becoming well-recognized among folks who are likely to be their customers. If you understand what this all about, you'd realize that Dive Rite could have done this earlier--they just didn't think of it. Had they filed for trademark protection, they would have gotten it, or they might have been challenged, perhaps, by GUE who had been using it for some time, and they may have made a case that the trademark shouldn't be granted to Dive Rite. Then GUE would have had to file a trademark, though and that would have effectively precluded Halcyon from ever using it.
Now, it's pretty clear that GUE will certify divers who take their course using any backplate or any wing or any dive light or . . . you get the picture, as long as it fits the standards. GUE is not trying to jam Halcyon down anyone's throat. Halcyon is just making a smart business move to further associate their products with a recognized phrase.
GCMedic, you're entitled to make any decision you like on how you feel. This is an open forum, so you're also entitled to say anything you like here that isn't inflammatory or insulting. But if I may make an observation--and my intent isn't to flame you, just to save you from yourself--you should just quit this particular thread. It's fine to say you made a decision based on how you feel, but then there's nothing more to be said. You continue to discuss facts, circumstances and theories when you're trying to use logic, but once you've decided to go on feeling, there's nothing more to say. It's OK, it just looks kind of silly to keep trying to defend "feeling" against those using more logical forms of argument, and it simply isn't necessary.
And your misunderstanding of the differences between patent and trademark and the analogy of GUE and Halcyon to the Sopranos makes you look kind of, um. . .let's use the word uninformed. I'm trying to be helpful, really, not tweak your nose. You're probably a very nice guy who is lots of fun to be around. And you're certainly entitled to your opinions and can express them here.
Don't get upset with people, though, if you keep trying to defend your feelings like they are the equivalent to an argument (argument in the logical discussion sense, not the fight sense), because feelings just aren't. And don't get upset if folks try to use logical arguments to refute some of your points. It doesn't mean we don't like you! Arguments should be enlightening to all invovled.
Every man is entitled to his own opinion. No man is entitled to his own facts. Forget who said that, but I like it
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