hey folks - this really was not about open-source or open-source hardware, but did start some great conversations. it was about a self described "clone" and "kn

hey folks - this really was not about open-source or open-source hardware, but did start some great conversations. it was about a self described "clone" and "knock-off" fund-my-business asking for $500k on kickstarter. there was some open source hardware discussion shrapnel, it's good that it's being talked about regardless. everyone who does open-source knows a copy of your design/code is going to happen, and it's encouraged. 1) the tangibot kickstarter when launched used the makerbot name dozens and dozens of times and said specifically it was the same quality because it was clone. you can say it's like-something, but not lean that hard on someone's trademarked name and brand for a $500k kickstarter. open-source hardware is great, copy it! just don't use someone's trademarked name as a way to assure quality and support. at least ship or show something and prove you're comparable. 2) the tangibot kickstarter at first said it was to fund a business, that's against rule #1 of kickstarter: http://www.kickstarter.com/help/guidelines http://www.kickstarter.com/help/guidelines rule #1 on kickstarter: "A project is not open-ended. Starting a business, for example, does not qualify as a project." (they also say "No "fund my life" projects.). tangibot has since completely changed the kickstarter and it's $500k better than it was when it was launched. if kickstarter had viewable revision changes that would be helpful right about now.