If I were to see one of your models, use the same concept in all the features but change some small dimensions and maybe put some pattern on it, would it be fine? I seem to understand from the experience of some other users that the only necessary requirement for taking down a similar model is using the exact same CAD file. So I was wondering what’s the limit here, what’s allowed and what not? Aside from the ethical point of view.
What’s your opinion on this?
Depends if the model allows remixing, because it sounds like you want to reuse most of the model but just make it a slightly different size, which would count as remixing
You need to check the license that the model was released under, if its SDF or includes the ND option then no
I’m talking about SDF, like if I remodel someone’s design with slightly different dimensions and put some pattern on it, without saying it’s inspired or a remix. And their file is SDF.
Also the question is: if it’s not technically correct to do that, is it still taken down by MakerWorld or does it just stay there to get points anyways?
SDF doesn’t allow for remixing so its entirely against the platforms rules and if reported and removed you will lose all the points involved and end up with a record of it on your account, so i personally wouldn’t copy an entire model and just change it slightly when the license doesn’t permit it
No, if you design the a model from scratch, it’s yours even if it’s the exact same as someone elses.
That isn’t how copyright actually works though sadly
If you copy someone elses model the original creator still retains any and all rights to that specific design, it won’t matter that you cloned it from scratch
So if I make a 10mmx10mm cube and publish it under Standard Digital File License then I own the rights to a 10mmx10mm cube and no one can use or make one?
Making forgeries and knockoffs has always been a risky business. If you have the ability to be original or innovative, do that instead.
So as @BambuBanker is stating I suspect that as long as someone doesn’t directly reupload a 3d model from someone else, nothing is strikable. That’s my experience as well from what I’ve sadly found out.
Now for the cube example it’s clear, for more complex designs I think it could have been different. But it’s still the same. Has someone else seen MakerWorld take down models for this reason?
I am making original models myself, but sadly I’ve been victim of what I’m asking. I was wondering if it was me not understanding how MakerWorld works or if it’s just that they don’t care about licenses and copying. I wish it was risky business, may be on other platforms.
Google AI answer:
You cannot copyright simple objects or ideas themselves, but you can copyright the expression of an idea, such as a drawing or written description of a design, if it meets the criteria of originality and creativity.
Here’s a more detailed explanation:
What Copyright Protects:
Original Works of Authorship:
Copyright protects original works of authorship that are fixed in a tangible medium of expression, meaning they must be written down, drawn, recorded, etc.
Examples:
This includes literary works (books, articles), dramatic works (plays), musical works (songs), artistic works (paintings, sculptures), computer software, and architecture.
“Modicum” of Creativity:
The work must have a “spark” and “modicum” of creativity, meaning it doesn’t have to be groundbreaking, but it needs to demonstrate some level of original expression.
I haven’t seen enough cases to know where MakerWorld stands on knockoffs. It’s pretty clear that you can’t remix models that don’t allow remixes, and you can’t just reupload a model and call it a remix. Creating a knockoff from scratch is a copyright issue, but MakerWorld doesn’t have the authority to judge such things. They will either side with one person or another depending on their own interests and biases. Smaller creators are at the mercy of their judgement, because we’re not likely to take it any further.
All you can do is claim copyright infringement, make your case, and hope for a fair judgement.
That’s clear to me, the problem is if anyone cares on the platform’s side
Did it three times, none with fair judgement. The last time they even featured the copied model
you’re asking if Bambu cares? Hardly–it’s the designer complaining somewhere that you need to be concerned of. That’s basically the only thing that will get them to take something down.
I came to the same conclusion. Did you by any chance see it happen? Where did they complain?
Here’s two examples, one going each way. Neither ended in Bambu action, though I’m sure that has occurred sometimes:
Thank you, these were useful. So if I understand correctly it’s either an agreement between the users or nothing from MakerWorld’s side. A bit of a grey area where you’re not allowed to do it but no one bats an eye about it