3D Printing Legality Questions?

[jfiscus]

I have a question that maybe one of the experts here can enlighten me on:

Legal implications of 3D models and what statutes are out there currently. My question is particularly for the USA but may apply elsewhere:
Collegiate Logos / Sports Team Logos
While you can legally "possess" digital files of their logo artwork, you are not allowed to produce "physical/printed" pieces (ie plaques/shirts/decals/etc) without the correct licensing contracts.
How does this apply to 3D models? Does it apply yet?
Have any cases set any precedence?

For example, theoretically can one possess and/or share 3D models of collegiate (or other) logos without producing anything? This still seems to be a gray area.

 

[Gino]

Good question and while the answer is probably twisted around some form of a 2D vs. 3D argument, I would tend to think anything remotely resembling anything copyrighted will not be allowed, for monetary gain.


I highly doubt, other than strong opinions, no one here will have a absolute complete answer.

The funny thing is.... we were just talking about something along these very lines earlier this afternoon. ​

 

[GAC05]

Looks like the potential for 3D printing is unlimited:

http://www.ufunk.net/en/techno/micron-sculpture/

I'm waiting until the process is mature enough for me to print my own 3D workers......


wayne k
guam usa

 

[James Burke]

How does this apply to 3D models?

We're talking about leaglese here and I'm sure it's covered. I think if you look close enough, there will be copyright language that states something about "image" or "likeness". Obviously, anything 3D printed will bear an image or likeness.

I believe 3D printing will bring up a lot of issues that may blur the lines between a copyright and a patent.


JB

 

[GAC05]

Let me know once you're set up....I'll take half a dozen.

Will do,
but have to keep the number of copies low.
Print to many and the next thing you know they will unionize and start asking for pay and stuff.....

wayne k
guam usa

 

[MikePro]

a likeness is a likeness, 3D/2D/recip-E
buddy of mine is printing bobbleheads, and made a CaptainAmerica Bobblehead with Jonathan Lucroy's head on it (milw.brewers)
...he receives a message from Mr. Lucroy, via his twitter acct ...asking where he can get one! Just traded for some signed swag and a pic with his daughter!

 

[jfiscus]

We're talking about leaglese here and I'm sure it's covered. I think if you look close enough, there will be copyright language that states something about "image" or "likeness". Obviously, anything 3D printed will bear an image or likeness.

I believe 3D printing will bring up a lot of issues that may blur the lines between a copyright and a patent.


JB

I am not talking about producing actual physical pieces, I am talking about the 3D model files their selves. (from which one could theoretically print a physical piece)

 

[MikePro]

I am not talking about producing actual physical pieces, I am talking about the 3D model files their selves. (from which one could theoretically print a physical piece)

Is downloading a movie off the internet not considered piracy until you burn it to DVD?