As we have reported, the sixth triennial rulemaking proceeding by the Librarian of Congress resulted in a wide range of DMCA exemptions. Today, in our final post, we cover a new exemption involving the use of 3D printers. 3D printing 101 3D printing technology allows users to convert digital data into physical objects. The 3D printing process requires the use of material, known as “feedstock,” that ultimately constitutes the final product. Materials used as feedstock for printing include various types of plastics, metals, nylon, epoxy resins, wax, and glass-filled polyamide. The printer applies layers of the material until it forms a three-dimensional object. 3D printer manufacturers use technological protection measures (“TPMs”), such as microchip verification systems, that require users to purchase the manufacturer’s proprietary feedstock or other manufacturer-approved feedstock. The proponent of the 3D printer exemption wanted users to be…
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