Fit for Purpose? 3D Printing and the Implications for Design Law: Opportunities and Challenges

This chapter will commence by setting out a brief introduction to registered and unregistered design rights, from the perspective of the United Kingdom (UK) and influence by the European Union (EU), before moving on to a consideration of the challenges posed by 3D printing. In this context, the chapter will, first, consider the legal status of a Computer-Aided Design (CAD) file within the context of registered and unregistered design, before proceeding to consider the implications presented through infringement and possible exceptions available for users. Highlighting challenges and raising questions on design laws’ ability to provide stringent enforcement for rights holders, the chapter will outline potential recommendations, drawn from patent and copyright laws, before concluding with some thoughts for the future.