MyMiniFactory Addressing Issue of 3D Model & Printing Rights from Thingiverse

[Brian_Krassenstein]

3D model marketplace MyMiniFactory addressed the recent issue with shady eBay sellers pulling thousands of 3D models from Thingiverse and reselling them in violation of the creators creative commons licenses. They also launched a new feature on MMF that allows users to add a label, or signature to their model automatically when it is uploaded. The system will discretely add the creator's username and a short link to the item on MyMiniFactory when the model is verified as printable. The user only has to check a box and MMF will take care of adding the label. You can find out more about this new feature over on 3DPrint.com: http://3dprint.com/121759/mmf-new-auto-labelling/

[Grindeddown]

This can only be seen as a good thing for the 3d printing industry. I would imagine that more technologies that mimic things like digital, yet invisible, watermarks will begin making their way into 3d modeling to help provide protection for users.

As an example, in using lightroom for photos or even directly on my DSLR, I have the option of embedding various metadata that source the images directly to me and help to prevent theft. Does this even exist yet in the 3d industry (beyond licenses)? If not, it should and probably will at some point.

[Geoff]

I won't use MyMiniFactory.

* Over 10 days to get a model approved, they then need to print it to prove it's printable even if you send them images proving it is.
* Lack or bad communication from staff.
* I pointed out people were selling some of my models on their website, they ceased communicating with me, so I ceased using their website.
* They failed to respond about users taking my models from Thingiverse and reposting them on MMF without any credit.

Bottom Line Eddie, they are not all they are cracked up to be sadly.

Since they are offering a "Autolabel" service, which is very easy to remove with any 3D software, I'll offer a free service, any logo, anywhere - I'll put it in places people won't see and so small it won't even print out.

http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1374113