Understanding of 3D Printing and Additive Manufacturing

3D Printing and Additive Manufacturing is a method to create a model/product by converting the material in layer-by-layer transformation is known as additive manufacturing.

The 3D printing process starts with scanning of an object, or with the creation of a digital representation of an object in a “computer aided design” (CAD) software package. Thereafter, a computer controlled process prints from a designated material, layer by layer, to create a three dimensional object.

IP Challenges in 3D Printing and Additive Manufacturing

As 3D printing is a very easiest way to manufacture complex model/product by using CAD information. Hence, the patented model/product can also be easily copy and use, without consent of patent holder. All cost and efforts of R&D will destroy of patent holder.

For example: If a company have developed a mechanical part and protect it with patent either method of manufacturing/product. But a person can copy this product by using 3D printing (scan & print). And it will not destroy of novelty of patent about manufacturing process of that product.

Few IP Challenges in 3D Printing and Additive Manufacturing

Digital Piracy and file sharing

Digital piracy and file sharing is the one of the big challenges in 3D-printing, because the data of 3D printing is in form of STL/CAD and it can be easily download and share, so anyone can use this file and the patent holder can have lost their revenue.

Copyright and Design Rights

Another important matter in the IP law related to 3D printing is copyright defense. Copyright guards the original workings of the authorship, like architectural plans, sculptures, and additional artistic makings.

The making of digital 3D models that are used for the printing presents unique challenges in the terms of copyright. Though the physical creation can be protected, the digital file used to make the object can or cannot be safe under the copyright law. This raises questions about the rights of the digital designs and who controls their delivery.

With the increase of platforms that permit individuals to make and share their 3D designs, questions around the copyright ownership and the terms under which operators may share and sell have developed.      

Patent Infringement

As 3D printing allow a user to print model in small space, so user can also produce the patented product without being aware whether he’s infringing or not. It is big challenge for Patent holders to recognize infringements and take legal action.

Trade Secrets

The 3D scanning & printing can spoil trade secret. The use of 3D scanning and printing can also expose trade secrets. Internal designs, previously protected by secrecy, can be reverse-engineered and replicated. The trade secret comes in public domain, it loses its protected status, putting companies at risk of losing competitive advantages.

Conclusion

3D printing and additive manufacturing is a quick and easy way to produce and manufacture complex design, product etc. However, anyone can easily copy and reproduce of patented design and it is very difficult for the patent holder to identify such occurrences.

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