A dramatic example of this concern is (albeit not in the patent space) as 3D printing et al regards gun control: where guns of certain kinds may be prohibited,

A dramatic example of this concern is (albeit not in the patent space) as 3D printing et al regards gun control: where guns of certain kinds may be prohibited, possession of files & equipment which turn raw materials into copies of such guns are being legally targeted for prohibition. Even now, the US government aggressively shuts down any website providing such files on grounds of arms export controls. Of note: the Solid Concepts M1911 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solid_Concepts_1911_DMLS https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solid_Concepts_1911_DMLS project produced a completely 3D printed metal handgun (barrel included!), which has of last report held up to firing 5000 rounds. The printer is at this time hideously expensive, but obviously it's just a matter of time before it reaches "affordable" to the point that the combination of printer & CAD files becomes considered a threat in jurisdictions criminalizing manufacture/sale/possession of such items. Ergo, the issue extends well beyond just patent infringements.