AceTimberwolf, on 03 April 2013 - 01:32 PM, said:
Yes, this of course is a gray area where how do you prove the other person is not making money. Any personal request would be done thru Pm. As for schematics they can be post ed on this thread directly. So all stl. Files are welcome. This is the same problem with the shirts.
Also it seems Topps is not actively pursuing their merchandising privileges since many online stores openly offer battletech merchandise. I'm still trying to get a public statement from them
This is NOT a grey area. It's 100%, absolutely, without a shadow of a doubt, illegal. PGI paid to have those models created and have a copyright on all of them.
LET ME BE CLEAR - IT IS 100%
ILLEGAL TO TAKE A 3D MODEL THAT YOU DID NOT MAKE AND HAVE IT PRINTED.
If PGI decides not to pursue legal action, that's their choice. Please do not spread rumor about this being legal or grey area, as it is not. A lot of people make a living off of designing 3d models (either as art or for rapid prototyping) and it's no different than spinning off prints while the artist is doing all the work for none of the money.
Even if you aren't charging for it, the artist is still doing all the work without being paid. You should always ask permission to use art assets before doing anything with them. I can't be any more clear about how it's both illegal and immoral to steal art.
EDIT
I should expand a little further:
I have no problem if all parties involved are properly reimbursed. I have experience making models for 3d print (even sold a few!) and I know a guy who is pretty dominate in the industry (lets just say a lot of table top gaming companies contract him to make mechs and vehicles for their games). I have no problem lending my experience to get some high quality and well made models out for the table top.
I think it would be great if the new designs could replace the old 80's robots and draw in a newer generation of gamers that just can't take the old stuff seriously.
But it has to be done right.
Edited by S3dition, 06 April 2013 - 11:35 PM.