3-D Printing: Creating Objects from Thin Air

Abstract

The idea of being able to replicate an actual three-dimensional solid object from a digital model used to be something straight out of Star Trek. Today, if you can dream it then you can print it. Enter 3-D Printing.

Additive manufacturing or 3-D Printing is a process of making a three-dimensional solid object of virtually any shape from a digital model. 3-D Printing is largely innovative. But, product manufacturers need to be aware of 3-D Printing to protect themselves from possible infringement. Each company by and through its officers and general counsel can decide how best to respond to potentially disruptive innovations. Take the advice of one of my professors when I was a student in the Cradle of Intellectual America: "A Word to the Wise is Sufficient".

Keywords: 3-D Printing, Additive Manufacturing, Intellectual Property, IP Infringement