Apr 18, 2022 16:00:00

Honda warns the shared site to delete all 3D models related to 'Honda', deletes original parts without question

With the advent of 3D printers, it has become easier to create figures and craft parts at home. Since you can make small parts of items used in daily life by yourself with a 3D printer, 3D model data of parts created by volunteers is shared on the Internet, but Honda, a car maker, has all 3D models related to 'Honda'. It is reported that a lawyer has warned the 3D model sharing site to remove it.

Honda Orders Big Takedown of Honda-Related 3D Printing Models From Maker Communities

https://www.thedrive.com/news/honda-orders-big-takedown-of-honda-related-3d-printing-models-from-maker-communities

At the beginning of April 2022, Reddit talked about 'a large number of 3D models of compatible parts compatible with Honda cars have been deleted from Printables , a shared site for 3D models.'


Reddit reports that all models posted before March 30, 2022, including the word 'Honda,' were removed from Printables without warning. Items removed from Printables were compatible parts such as windshield washer fluid tank caps, trunk handles, assist grips, and 3D model data of original accessories such as key cases and cup holders.

Prusa, who runs Printables, said, 'We received a huge amount of legal documents from a lawyer representing Honda ordering us to remove 3D models using the word'Honda'or related logos and trademarks. The lawyer claims to be a trademark or patent breach. '

The removed models include not only compatible parts that were originally designed and designed by Honda, but also accessories that were personally designed to fit Honda's car. For this reason, many people on Reddit ask, 'Why don't you just use the name'Honda'and delete it without asking questions?'

Maya Ecstein, a lawyer who specializes in 3D printer-related legal issues, said, 'Generally speaking, a copy of what was manufactured by Honda would be a violation of trademarks and patents, but Honda's car Designed to fit and using the 'Honda' name falls into the fair use category. '

Joseph Prusa, CEO of Prusa, who removed the 3D model at the request of Honda, told Reddit, 'We are working with other companies to make them understand that this is not a hunt down, but an acceptance. ', And revealed the attitude of accepting the request from Honda.


In addition, when the vehicle-related news site The Drive asked Honda Motors North Amrica, an American corporation, it was Honda Motors Europe, a European corporation, that ordered the deletion of the 3D model. The Drive also contacted Honda Motors Europe but did not get an answer.