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

1-1-2015

Volume

42

Journal

World Patent Information

First Page

13

URL with Digital Object Identifier

10.1016/j.wpi.2015.07.003

Last Page

18

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.