Intellectual Property Rights at Crossroads: The Copyright and Patent Implications relating to 3D Printing

Through an analysis of copyright and patent laws, this chapter considers the implications arising from 3D printing and 3D scanning. In particular, the chapter explores the elements of the 3D printing process, that is, designing, using, sharing, printing and distributing a CAD file and, through its application to copyright and patent laws, considers the 3D printing process from the perspective of protection, exceptions and limitations as well as infringement. Drawing on the most recent literature including diverse studies on 3D printing, this chapter navigates through some of the issues in need of policy consideration and reform. In particular, the chapter highlights the challenges posed by this new technology as well as the legal gaps in need of review. The chapter concludes with some thoughts for the future