3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, has established itself as a revolutionary technology. From simple plastic parts to complex components such as turbine blades and medical prostheses – the range of applications is diverse. To protect your innovative 3D printing projects, a well-considered patent protection strategy is essential.
Essentially, three dimensions of 3D printing need to be distinguished, which must be taken into account for the right IP protection strategy.
Products manufactured through 3D printing can be protected under patent law. Additive manufacturing makes it possible, for example, to create load-optimised lightweight components. These differ from previously known components and thus meet the criteria for an innovation eligible for patent protection.
Additive manufacturing technology is constantly evolving. Process engineering in particular is a key focus, as the production of 3D-printed components is still comparatively slow and expensive. Series production is only worthwhile for small quantities and highly complex components that cannot be manufactured in any other way. The individual steps of a novel 3D printing process could be protected by a patent. A particular feature of patent protection for manufacturing processes is that the component produced using this process also enjoys independent protection. Patent protection for the manufacturing process therefore cannot be circumvented by relocating the production of the component made with the patent-protected process abroad while still selling the component domestically.
