Chris Higgins Weighs in on Whether 3D Printing CAD Files are Protected Speech

Bloomberg Law
January.04.2018

Chris Higgins, co-leader of the 3D Printing team at Orrick, recently spoke with Bloomberg Law regarding a case involving the online sharing of 3D printed gun files. The U.S. Supreme Court is deciding whether or not to hear the case, which concerns whether digital blueprints are entitled to free-speech protection.

Chris noted that CAD files command a computer to perform some action and are therefore "inherently functional.” He added that CAD files don't contain expressive elements such as those found in video games, which the Supreme Court has held are protected speech.

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Christopher Higgins Partner, Patents, Stampa in 3D

Washington, D.C.

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Stampa in 3D
U.S. International Trade Commission
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Proprietà intellettuale
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Christopher Higgins Partner

Washington, D.C.

Chris has developed a global reputation as an authoritative source on legal issues in 3D printing, and has been a featured speaker at 3D printing events around the world. His 3D printing practice includes advising startups and established 3D printing companies on all aspects of intellectual property law, cybersecurity, and technology transactions. Chris helps 3D printing clients grow their businesses and capitalize on market opportunities and represents them in court to defend or enforce IP rights. Chris' 3D printing work extends beyond the courtroom; he teaches a course at Penn State University as part of its Masters of Engineering in Additive Manufacturing and Design program.

Chris' patent litigation and IPR practice also covers a wide range of other technologies including graphics processing, digital image processing and printing, semiconductor devices and semiconductor manufacturing, data encryption, high-definition television, digital content recognition, and medical devices. Chris has also assisted clients with licensing and patent prosecution related to 3D printing, digital imaging, wireless technology, mobile communication devices, encryption, high-definition television and medical devices.

Prior to law school, Chris worked in the patent department of a medical device company and as an engineer designing electronic components for missiles, projectiles, and bombs.

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