Copyright of CADD files 1

[ACH1]

I'll cross post this in the AutoCAD group but I'm wondering about the distribution of CAD (or CADD) files.

We have been moving toward formal agreements to distribute this type of information but many firms just seem to release any data at will. I think they are taking a major risk.

Not only do we not know what will be done with the data but we view notes, details, and other types of "re-used" data as our intellectual property. I've been developing and refining many notes and details for 10 years now.

What are others doing with the distribution of CAD files?

 

[ctopher]

We never distribute CAD files, only PDF's of the dwgs.
The only time we send out CAD files is if it's in the contract for the customer or export to IGES (or similar) to a vendor for machining.

Chris
Sr. Mechanical Designer, CAD
SolidWorks 05 SP0.1 / PDMWorks 05
ctopher's home site

 

[PSE]

Releasing a CAD file is akin to releasing the source code for a software program so it needs to be carefully considered. Contracts, Non-disclosures revision control agreements and other relevant legal "protections" should be utilized.

We generally send out drawings only, (not files other than pdfs) for initial quotation etc. Master geometry is only made available after supplier selection and approval (Generally suppliers that we have had a long history of working with). Other things to consider are sending out "simplified" models/files that do not contain proprietary details.

Regards,

 

[RDK]

I only release AutoCad files if contractually required to do so.

Usually it is an authority having jurisdiction that is insisting on the file but sometimes the client needs them for as built information to be used in maintenance.

Write a copyright notice in a multi line text file. Put it in large print on a copyright layer that can be turned off fro normal use.

Take the same text file and shrink it down and insert it randomly on almost every layer. Also insert it in notes and details that you think might be copied and reused. That way it will not be noticeable in the printouts but should you come across an example of your work being reused without permission , you have ironclad proof.



Rick Kitson MBA P.Eng

Construction Project Management
From conception to completion

http://www.kitsonengineering.com