Open hardware desktop 3D printing is dead – you just don't know it yet
9 days ago
- #Open Hardware
- #Patent Issues
- #3D Printing
- Open hardware in desktop 3D printing is declared dead due to overwhelming competition from subsidized Chinese manufacturers.
- Chinese government subsidies and tax incentives (like the 'Super deduction') have led to a surge in patent filings, making it difficult for open hardware to compete.
- The cost and complexity of challenging patents, especially in international markets, put open hardware at a significant disadvantage.
- The article highlights the need for community action to monitor patent filings and protect prior art to safeguard the future of open hardware in 3D printing.
- A new community license is being developed to share designs with minimal risk of exploitation, alongside efforts to establish an organization to protect critical innovations.