Can you copy a 3D print file without violating Patent or Copyright law? If someone makes a slight change to your original design file, would that new file no longer be protected by the original Copyright? A recent decision in the Federal Court battle between Align Technologies, makers of Invisalign 3D Printed clear braces, and direct competitor Clearcorrect, has established (for now) if digital files, 3D CAD files, are considered “articles” within US Patent law. While this case has raised awareness for an important issue in the 3D Printing industry, it actually will not have as much impact on 3D print file rights and protection as it may first appear. In this WTFFF?! episode Tom and Tracy interview Intellectual Property Attorney Maria Speth, partner in the law firm of Jayburg Wilk, about the Invisalign case, the differences between Patents and Copyrights, and how you can best protect your 3D Print digital files. What are some best practices for protecting your 3D print files? How do you obtain a copyright? Do you need to register that Copyright? This podcast has critical and valuable information for anyone creating, selling, or sharing 3D CAD files.

LINKS MENTIONED:

Jaburg | Wilk

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