Interesting discussion.
Intellectual property protection is something I've thought about quite a bit, as I post my own ideas on the web. In some ways, the issue is similar to music copying and distribution...ultimately only partially enforceable. I believe the issue of copying is one of morality, and as such will vary widely both across borders and from individual to individual.
I could spend time and money to attempt to protect one of my ideas — and it might work — but only in nations that respect the concept of intellectual property. Instead, I've been kicking around an alternate idea based on an honor system, and mutual respect. I posted the full version on my website (excerpt here):
1. If you love my ideas, or body shapes, and want to duplicate them...simply ask me first. Get permission from me in writing.
2. I will say YES — provided you are building one copy yourself for your personal use.
3. I will likely say YES — even if you are making multiple copies for profit — as long as your quality is exceptional, your business practices are ethical and ecologically sustainable, and you share your profits with me. We will negotiate a fair (win-win or no deal) arrangement.
4. If you see anyone exploiting my ideas or designs, call them on it. Explain to them they are hurting me — the source of the idea — and they would benefit more if they helped me. When someone supports me, pays me fairly for my work, then I am free to create new and better ideas.
5. Credit my ideas. Explain to the world you have built a (insert idea here) with permission from the designer, Rick Toone.
Interested to see how folks respond. Feel free to contact me.
