Recently, there have been some discussion of “derivative works” questions on the Thingiverse Google group. Specifically, makers have been wondering if they might get into trouble for uploading designs that were based on real-world objects or logos. This is an interesting question, and just as when Xerox copying machines first made “copying” something that could be done quickly and cheaply, the answer is complicated, and will probably get more so, as companies move to strengthen the laws that exist, or introduce new forms of protection. So, brave makers, the best we can do is know how things stand.
» Continue reading “Toe Stepping: Thingiverse and IP law”

MakerBot is going to be in the best art show of the 21st century. It’s called Bits ‘N Pieces and it’ll be at Material Connexion starting on Thursday. I think that this show is the perfect show for citizens of the Thingiverse to check out!

DATES: November 4 – December 4, 2009
HOURS: Monday – Friday, 9am – 6pm
LOCATION: Material ConneXion 60 Madison Avenue, 2nd Floor New York, NY 10010 T. 212-842-2050
NEAREST SUBWAYS: #6 at 28th and Park / NRW at 28th and Broadway.

Bits ‘n Pieces is a traveling exhibition of work by international designers, architects, computer scientists, and material and technology researchers. It will showcase projects still in their development stage, as well as furniture, architecture, jewelry, graphic design and products that anticipate the next phase of the digital revolution, focusing on how society is imbued with, shaped by and shapes technology. This new era will be marked by increased awareness about, and accessibility of, continuously advancing technologies and materials and the changes that we will be making in our lives through them will be not just formal but structural, not merely aesthetic but substantive, changing how we actually think about, design and build our objects and space. What will life look like based on changes that are sometimes visible to the public and sometimes invisible?

Read on for the conceptual essay. (It’s good) » Continue reading “MakerBot in the Bits ‘n Pieces show at Material Connexion”