Title

A novel approach to obviousness: An algorithm for identifying prior art concerning 3-D printing materials

Authors

Joshua M. Pearce, Michigan Technological UniversityFollow

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

7-23-2015

Abstract

With the development and commercialization of the recyclebot (plastic extruders that fabricate 3-D printing filament from recycled or virgin materials) and various syringe pump designs for self-replicating rapid prototypers (RepRaps), the material selection available for consumers who produce products using 3-D printers is expanding rapidly. This paper provides an open-source algorithm for identifying prior art for 3-D printing materials. Specifically this paper provides a new approach for determining obviousness in this technology area. The potential ramifications on both innovation and patent law in the 3-D printing technological space are discussed.

Publisher's Statement

© 2015 Elsevier Ltd. Publisher's version of record: https://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.wpi.2015.07.003

Publication Title

World Patent Information

Recommended Citation

Pearce, J. M. (2015). A novel approach to obviousness: An algorithm for identifying prior art concerning 3-D printing materials. World Patent Information, 42, 13-18. http://doi.org/10.1016/j.wpi.2015.07.003
Retrieved from: https://digitalcommons.mtu.edu/materials_fp/96