Judgment of the General Court (Fifth Chamber) of 26 September 2014 — Brainlab v OHIM (Curve)

(Case T‑266/13)

Community trade mark — Application for Community word mark Curve — Absolute ground for refusal — Trade mark contrary to public policy or to accepted principles of morality — Article 7(1)(f) of Regulation (EC) No 207/2009

1.                     Community trade mark — Definition and acquisition of the Community trade mark — Absolute grounds for refusal — Trade marks contrary to public policy or to accepted principles of morality — Examination by reference to the perception of the sign by the relevant public (Council Regulation No 207/2009, Art. 7(1)(f)) (see paras 14, 19, 28)

2.                     Community trade mark — Definition and acquisition of the Community trade mark — Absolute grounds for refusal — Trade marks contrary to public policy or to accepted principles of morality — Word mark Curve (Council Regulation No 207/2009, Art. 7(1)(f)) (see paras 15, 20-25, 29-37)

Re:

ACTION brought against the decision of the Fourth Board of Appeal of OHIM of 15 March 2013 (Case R 2073/2012-4), concerning an application for registration of the word mark Curve as a Community trade mark.

Operative part

The Court:

1. Dismisses the action;

2. Orders Brainlab AG to pay the costs.