Question:
Billy has created a device called a TowRack, which is a rack for carrying sports equipment such as bikes, skis and kayaks. What makes this item different form other racks is that it attaches to a vehicle's trailer hitch and has a single wheel to help support the weight of the rack and items attached to it. Because it is so much lighter than a regular trailer, it can be used on even the smallest of cars that are not designed to tow regular trailers. Because of the success of this product, competitors introduce similar products. But because of the initial success of Billy's TowRack, all of these similar products are often referred to as TowRacks. Billy has also written a book about using "TowRacks" and safe driving techniques for driving with TowRacks and would like to obtain a copyright for the book. Discuss Billy's legal situation. What actions can he take? Do you think that he will prevail? Why? Please give examples of three other similar cases and the results.