The legal implications of additive manufacturing

Abstract

The aim of this term paper is to analyse the legal implications evolving around the area of Additive manufacturing. Additive manufacturing which is also known as 3D printing is a new era of technology that that the world has embarked upon. This form of printing offers users the possibility to print 3D objects via computer-aided design (CAD) file. 3D printing differs from traditional manufacturing processes since the 3D objects are created through the placement of layers of a specific material on top of each other which in turn will create the 3D object. This process is known as ‘additive layer manufacturing’. The section introducing the paper presents the recent developments and impacts evolving around the area of 3D printing and law. This is then followed by a brief analysis of the emerging developments in this area of law and the mechanism of such technology which is essential to understand the legal implications that are discussed throughout the paper. The central focus of this research paper is to give an overview of the implications, effects and solutions for each form of intellectual property infringement infringement. Unlike traditional printing, this form of printing not only gives rise to copyright issues however also affects design rights, patents and trademarks. This form of technology also gives rise to issues dealing with product liability, firearms, drugs, and counterfeiting which will be dealt with in this paper. A comparative analysis of laws is carried out to ensure that an analytical approach is maintained throughout the whole term paper.