The aim of this Study was to analyse the IP implications of the development of industrial 3D printing and clarify how the existing IP framework brings protection to IP rights holders. It identifies potential challenges and how they can be removed and opportunities in need of clarification in order to aid the competitiveness of the AM sector in Europe.

The focus is on seven industrial applications of AM: health, aerospace, automotive, consumer goods/electronics, energy, industrial equipment and tooling and construction and building sectors. This report identifies the pertinent IP considerations according to different elements in the 3D printing process, i.e. designing a CAD file, using and sharing a CAD file, printing the CAD file, distributing the printed good and finally, licensing it.

The report can be downloaded here in several languages:

The Ministry of Science, Innovation and University of the Government of Asturias coordinates a public-private alliance to create equipment and devices for individual protection that can contribute to dealing with the health crisis caused by COVID-19.

Through this alliance, integrated within the private sector by ArcelorMittal, thyssenkrupp Elevator Innovation Center and the IDONIAL technology center, efforts are coordinated to help cover, in the most efficient way possible, the demand for material by the health sector and others collectives, both from Asturias and the rest of the country.

Their goal is to organize production at all levels, from suppliers to manufacturers and the logistics network .The initiative arises from the know-how in design, engineering and additive manufacturing present in the region, joining efforts and pooling its R&D resources in these fields to tackle the following lines of work:

• Individual protection equipment (protective screens and glasses)

• CPAP (helmets to apply pressure to the airways)

• Breathers

 More info: https://proyecto-covid-19-asturias.webnode.es/

FAN 3D - a young company from Oeiras (Portugal) - has developed a face shield that can be printed with a 3D plastics extruder. Hospitals in the area of Lisbon, Setúbal and Almada are already supported by the first units and the number keep going up.

File can be downloaded here: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/1vevnod6isnf7g7/AACmUcAb3OKi9zSpNWo-TFK_a?dl=0

More info: http://amfan3d.com

https://www.facebook.com/FAN3Dprinting/