Legal

SelfCAD Vs. 3D Slash: Everything You Need to Know

3D printing is rapidly gaining popularity and becoming more accessible. With the increasing availability of affordable 3D printers, software is also becoming more important.

SelfCAD and 3D Slash are two software options for creating 3D models. Both have their strengths and weaknesses, so it can be challenging to determine which one is better for your needs. In this article, we will compare SelfCAD and 3D Slash in detail to help you make an informed decision.

What is SelfCAD?

SelfCAD is a 3D modeling and slicing software that allows users to create, modify, and print 3D designs. It is a browser-based application with a user-friendly interface and a wide range of design tools, including shape generators, parametric modeling, sculpting, and mesh mixing.

SelfCAD also provides a library of pre-designed objects, textures, and models that users can import and modify to fit their needs. The software supports multiple file formats for 3D printing and offers an in-built slicing tool that generates G-code for printing.

Now, let’s check out some of SelfCAD’s features that allow for easy 3D modeling in less time before exploring 3D Slash.

Simplify Object Tool

SelfCAD offers a Modify tool called Simplify Object, located in the main Toolbar under the Modify drop-down list. This tool enables you to alter selected objects or chosen areas of the object by decreasing the number of faces or edges that form the object’s shape. However, if you continue to simplify the model excessively, it may lead to deformation.

Round Object Tool

SelfCAD provides a Modify tool named Round Object, accessed from the main Toolbar under the Modify drop-down list. This tool enables you to adjust chosen objects or designated areas of the objects by rounding their shape until they resemble a sphere, as the name implies.

Fillet Tool

SelfCAD has a Modify tool called Fillet, located in the main Toolbar under the Modify drop-down list. This tool enables you to adjust chosen objects or designated areas of the objects by rounding the edges of the model, as the name suggests.

Chamfer Tool

SelfCAD offers a Modify tool called Chamfer, found in the main Toolbar under the Modify drop-down list. This tool enables you to adjust chosen objects or designated areas of the objects by creating a beveled edge on the model, as the name implies.

Add Thickness Tool

SelfCAD provides a Modify tool called Add Thickness, accessed from the main Toolbar under the Modify drop-down list. This tool allows you to adjust chosen objects or designated areas of the objects by adding volume to non-manifold objects.

What is 3D Slash?

3D Slash is a user-friendly 3D modeling software that allows users to create 3D designs using simple building blocks called “slashes.” It is designed for beginners, educators, and professionals who want to create 3D objects without the need for complex software or technical skills.

The software also features an intuitive interface, drag-and-drop functionality, and various customization options. 3D Slash can be used for a variety of applications, such as product design, prototyping, education, and game development.

Similarities Between SelfCAD and 3D Slash:

1. Operating Systems and System Requirements:

SelfCAD and 3D Slash are 3D modeling software programs that allow users to create 3D models.
These software programs are compatible with multiple operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux.
SelfCAD and 3D Slash have similar minimum system requirements, which include a modern CPU, a graphics card with OpenGL support, and at least 4 GB of RAM.
Both software programs are designed to be user-friendly and intuitive, making them accessible to beginners as well as experienced 3D designers.

2. Cost/Licenses:

SelfCAD and 3D Slash are two 3D modeling software programs that offer different features and tools. In terms of cost and licenses, there are a few similarities between the two:

Free version: SelfCAD and 3D Slash offer a free version of their software with limited features and capabilities.
Subscription-based: Both software programs are subscription-based, with SelfCAD offering monthly, annual, and lifetime licenses, while 3D Slash offers only monthly and annual licenses.
Educational licenses: SelfCAD and 3D Slash offer discounted educational licenses for students and teachers.
Commercial licenses: Both software programs offer commercial licenses for businesses, with SelfCAD offering additional features and tools in their higher-tiered licenses.
No hidden fees: Both SelfCAD and 3D Slash do not have any hidden fees or charges and offer transparent pricing for their different licenses.

3. User-friendliness/ Overview of the Interface:

Here are some similarities between SelfCAD and 3D Slash in terms of user-friendliness and interface:

SelfCAD and 3D Slash have user-friendly interfaces that are easy to navigate, making them suitable for beginners and experts alike.
They both have drag-and-drop functionality, which makes it easy to import 3D models and manipulate them.
Both applications offer a variety of tools and features that are easy to access and use, making the design process more efficient and streamlined.
They both have a 3D view window that allows users to see their designs from all angles, making it easier to spot and correct errors.
These applications offer tutorials and resources to help users learn how to use the software effectively.

4. Learning Curve:

Both software has relatively short learning curves compared to more complex 3D modeling software like Blender or Maya.
SelfCAD has a more comprehensive set of tools, making it a more feature-rich software for 3D modeling.
3D Slash, on the other hand, has a simpler interface and a more user-friendly approach to 3D modeling, which can make it easier for beginners to get started.
Each software has extensive documentation and tutorials available to help users learn how to use them effectively.
SelfCAD and 3D Slash offer free trials, so users can test them out before committing to a purchase.
Ultimately, the choice between SelfCAD and 3D Slash will depend on the user’s specific needs and preferences, as well as their level of experience with 3D modeling software.

5. Customer Support:

SelfCAD and 3D Slash offer customer support through various channels such as email, phone, and live chat.
They both provide extensive documentation, tutorials, and knowledge-base articles to help users learn and use their software effectively.
Both platforms offer a community forum where users can ask questions and interact with other users.
They also have social media accounts where users can reach out to them for support or follow-up for updates.

Differences Between SelfCAD and 3D Slash:

1. Operating Systems and System Requirements:

SelfCAD and 3D Slash are both 3D modeling software that has some differences in terms of operating systems and system requirements. Here are some key points:

Operating Systems: SelfCAD can be used on Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems, while 3D Slash is available for Windows and Mac only.
SelfCAD also has a web-based version that can be accessed on any computer with an internet connection.
System Requirements: SelfCAD requires at least 4GB of RAM and a dedicated graphics card, while 3D Slash can run on 2GB of RAM and integrated graphics.
SelfCAD recommends a processor of at least Intel i5 or AMD Ryzen 5, while 3D Slash only requires a processor with SSE2 support.
SelfCAD also requires a modern browser, while 3D Slash can be installed as a desktop application.

2. Cost/Licenses:

SelfCAD and 3D Slash are both 3D modeling software tools, but they differ in terms of cost and licensing. Here are the differences between SelfCAD and 3D Slash based on their price and licensing:

SelfCAD:

SelfCAD offers a free trial version, which includes basic features and limited access to the software.
SelfCAD offers a subscription-based model, which starts at $14.99 per month, and discounts are available for yearly subscriptions.
SelfCAD offers a lifetime license for $699, which includes all features and future updates.
SelfCAD also offers a student discount of 50%.

3D Slash:

3D Slash offers a free version with basic features and limited access to the software.
3D Slash offers a paid subscription-based model, which starts at $2.99 per month, and discounts are available for yearly subscriptions.
3D Slash also offers a lifetime license for $99, which includes all features and future updates.
3D Slash offers a special educational license for teachers and students.

3. User-friendliness/ Overview of the Interface:

SelfCAD is an all-in-one CAD software that offers a comprehensive set of features, including modeling, sculpting, and 3D printing. Its interface is user-friendly, with an intuitive drag-and-drop functionality that allows users to create complex 3D models easily.
On the other hand, 3D Slash is a voxel-based modeling software that is designed for beginners. Its interface is straightforward, with a block-based approach to 3D modeling. Users can create 3D models by combining blocks of different shapes and sizes.
SelfCAD has a modern and sleek interface with a dark theme that is easy on the eyes. It features a toolbar on the left-hand side of the screen, which houses all the tools and features. SelfCAD’s interface is customizable, allowing users to adjust the layout to their liking.
3D Slash has a simple and colorful interface, with a block selection panel on the right-hand side of the screen. Users can select blocks and add them to the workspace by clicking on them. 3D Slash’s interface is not as customizable as SelfCAD’s, but it is easy to use and navigate.

4. Learning Curve:

SelfCAD is a 3D modeling software that has a steeper learning curve than 3D Slash.
SelfCAD offers more advanced features, such as parametric modeling and the ability to import and export files in various formats, which can make it more challenging for beginners.
However, SelfCAD offers a comprehensive tutorial library and a user-friendly interface, which can make the learning process easier.
3D Slash, on the other hand, is a more intuitive software with a simpler interface, making it easier to learn for beginners.
Overall, the choice between SelfCAD and 3D Slash depends on the user’s experience level and the complexity of the project they wish to undertake.

5. Customer Support:

SelfCAD offers 24/7 customer support through live chat, email, and phone, while 3D Slash provides support through email and an online help center.
SelfCAD provides access to a knowledge base, tutorial videos, and a community forum, while 3D Slash only offers a limited online help center.
SelfCAD offers a personal onboarding session to new users, while 3D Slash doesn’t have such an option.
SelfCAD’s customer support team responds quickly to inquiries, while 3D Slash’s response time may vary.

Forge hassle-free 3D models with the best software:

SelfCAD and 3D Slash are excellent 3D modeling software with unique features and benefits. SelfCAD is a more comprehensive software with advanced features suitable for professionals, while 3D Slash is an ideal choice for beginners with its block-based approach and easy-to-use interface.

Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on the user’s needs and experience level. If you’re a professional or require advanced features, SelfCAD is the better choice. If you’re a beginner or need simple 3D modeling software, 3D Slash is an excellent choice.

Legal

Thai Court Amends Law to Allows Wives to Sue Husband’s Lovers

Thailand's Constitutional Court Allows Wives to Sue Husband's Lovers

Angry Thai Wife: File Image

Thailand’s Constitutional Court has changed the Civil Code will allow women to sue their husbands’ lovers, male or female. The Constitutional Court found on Tuesday that Section 1523 of the Civil Code breached Section 27 of the constitution, which safeguards Thais’ rights and liberties regardless of gender.

The court directed that the verdict be enforced within 360 days.

Section 1523 of the Civil Code states that husbands can sue their wives’ lovers, and wives can sue other women who publicly display an adulterous connection with their husband.

Keirov Kritteeranon, secretary-general of the Office of the Ombudsman, stated that the Ombudsman had previously urged the court to rule on the legality of Section 1523, which allowed wives to suit only female lovers.

Husbands can now sue their wives’ boyfriends regardless of gender, and there was no requirement for any public declaration of an adulterous connection, he claimed.

Once enforced, Tuesday’s Constitutional Court order, according to the Ombudsman, will correct this imbalance.

Thailand Amends Marriage Law

Meanwhile, Thailand is set to become the first Southeast Asian country to recognise same-sex marriage, after its marriage equality law was passed in the Upper House on Tuesday and is now on its approach to being promulgated before going into effect in the coming months.

LGBTQ+ advocates rejoiced as the Senate voted 130-4 to pass the bill on its final reading, with 18 abstentions. They hailed the development as a win in their long struggle for equal rights.

When the advocates who had gathered at parliament on Tuesday to witness the Senate’s final reading and vote on the measure heard the outcome, they burst out in cheers.

They next went to authorities House, where the authorities had planned a celebratory reception for them later in the day. They then went to the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre, where the party lasted until late at night.

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who is on sick leave due to Covid-19, congratulated them via Zoom call from Government House.

The new law will allow any two people aged 18 or older to register their marriage and obtain the same advantages and rights as heterosexual couples. The bill refers to married couples as “two individuals” rather than “a man and a woman,” and changes their legal status from “husband and wife” to “spouses.”

LGBTQ+ people from any country can legally marry in Thailand. When the bill goes into force, foreign same-sex married partners will be eligible for a spousal visa.

The law will be sent to the government for approval before being presented to the monarch.

It will take effect within 120 days of its publication in the Royal Gazette, making Thailand the third Asian country to accept same-sex marriages after Nepal and Taiwan.

Senator Kamnoon Sidhisamarn, spokesman for the Senate’s special committee evaluating the proposed law, called it a victory for equal rights campaigners.

“There is no reason for the Upper House to disagree with the judgement made by the House of Representatives,” he told reporters. He was referring to the legislation’s passage in the Lower House prior to its submission to the Senate for approval.

The battle for same-sex marriage legislation began 23 years ago. Tunyawaj Kamolwongwat, a Move Forward Party list-MP, said that the law’s passage on Tuesday signified the beginning of a new chapter in Thai history.

Source: Bangkok Post

Court Upholds Israel’s Ban on News Agency Al Jazeera

Court Upholds Israel’s Ban on News Agency Al Jazeera

Legal

Thailand’s Senate Passes Landmark Marriage Equity Bill Legalizing Gay Marriage

Thailand’s Senate has approved a long awaited marriage equality bill on Tuesday, making the country the third Asian country to accept same-sex couples. The Senate approved the law 130-4 with 18 abstentions.

The marriage equality bill will be sent the palace for royal clearance. The marriage equality law takes 120 days to take effect after Royal Gazette publication.

LGBTQ+ advocates welcomed the proposal a “monumental step forward” because Thailand would be the first Southeast Asian country to legalise marriage equality. Thailand is popular with travellers due to its LGBTQ+ culture and tolerance.

“This would underscore Thailand’s leadership in the region in promoting human rights and gender equality,” the Civil Society Commission of marriage equality, activists, and LGBTI+ couples said.

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who wore a rainbow shirt to commemorate Pride Month, joined thousands of LGBTQ+ revellers and activists in a Bangkok parade at the start of June.

The prime minister will open Government House to commemorate the bill’s passage. Pride supporters will march from Parliament to the prime minister’s office. Mr. Srettha, who has Covid-19, will join them online after taking several days off.

Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai anticipates June’s Pride Month to create approximately 4.5 billion baht in economic cash flow.

Marriage Equity Bill

Pride Month in Thailand

On Saturday, Mr. Phumtham said the government under Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is encouraging sexual diversity and working with the commercial sector to plan more Pride Month festivities to attract LGBTQ+ tourists.

He claimed it will increase the country’s trade potential by giving SMEs business expansion chances and adding soft power value.

Mr. Phumtham claimed Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, director-general of the Trade Policy and Strategy Office, told him Pride Month celebrations will make Thailand a “pride-friendly destination” for LGBTQ+ Thai and global consumers.

This would help the country become a regional tourism hub under the government’s “Ignite Tourism Thailand” initiative to enhance tourism in 55 “worth visiting” provinces.

He added that such festivals will support downstream industries like event planners, food and beverage companies, hotels, and transport services and disperse cash to local areas. Mr. Phumtham stated Thailand’s Pride Month began in 1999. Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Chon Buri host parades, festivities, and campaigns.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) expects approximately 860,000 people to attend this year’s festival and contribute at least 4.5 billion baht for the economy. LGBT Capital estimates that the world’s LGBTQ+ population has US$4.7 trillion in purchasing power and Thailand’s sexually varied population has US$26 billion.

LGBTQ+ rights in Thailand are improving, but there’s still much to do. The LGBTQ+ community in Thailand is notably strong in Bangkok and Pattaya.

Strong legal recognition allows transgender people to change their names and titles. Many LGBTQ+ couples lack legal rights since same-sex marriage is banned.

Marriage Equity Bill

LGBTQ+ rights in Thailand

Thailand is becoming more accepting despite these difficulties. LGBTQ+ rights are gaining favour. Activists want legal changes to guarantee equality.

Pride parades are becoming increasingly visible, demonstrating diverse acceptance. While challenges remain, LGBTQ+ rights in Thailand are improving as awareness and acceptance expand.

Legal

Protecting Your Designs: Intellectual Property Rights in the Jewelry Manufacturing Industry

Intellectual Property jewellery

The jewelry manufacturing industry is a vibrant and highly competitive sector where creativity and innovation are paramount. Designers invest significant time, effort, and resources into crafting unique pieces that appeal to consumers’ tastes and preferences. However, this industry faces a persistent challenge: the protection of original designs from imitation and unauthorized use.

Intellectual property rights (IPR) play a crucial role in safeguarding jewellery designs, ensuring that creators receive recognition and financial benefits from their work. This article delves into the various forms of intellectual property rights pertinent to the jewelry manufacturing industry and offers insights on how designers can protect their creations.

Understanding Intellectual Property Rights

Intellectual property rights are legal mechanisms that grant creators exclusive rights to their inventions, designs, and artistic works. These rights encourage innovation by providing creators with the means to control the use of their creations and to benefit financially from them. In the context of jewelry design, the most relevant forms of IPR are copyrights, trademarks, patents, and design rights.

Copyrights

Copyright protection extends to original works of authorship, including artistic creations such as jewelry designs. Under copyright law, the designer of a piece of jewelry automatically acquires the exclusive right to reproduce, distribute, and display the design upon its creation. This protection does not require registration, although registering the copyright with the appropriate governmental body, such as the U.S. Copyright Office, can provide additional legal benefits and evidence of ownership.

For jewelry designers, copyright protects the aesthetic aspects of a piece, such as the specific design, patterns, and artistic expressions. However, it does not cover the functional elements or the materials used. The duration of copyright protection varies by country, but it typically lasts for the life of the creator plus an additional 50 to 70 years.

Trademarks

Trademarks protect symbols, names, logos, and slogans that distinguish goods and services in the marketplace. For jewelry manufacturers, a trademark can cover the brand name, logo, or even a unique product line name.

Registering a trademark with the appropriate authority, such as the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), provides nationwide protection and the exclusive right to use the mark in connection with the specified goods or services.

A strong trademark helps consumers identify and differentiate a brand’s products from those of competitors, fostering brand loyalty and reducing the risk of confusion in the marketplace. It also provides legal recourse against counterfeiting and unauthorised use of the brand’s identity.

Patents

Patents protect new inventions and technical innovations. In the jewelry industry, this could include innovative manufacturing processes, unique mechanisms for adjustable or interchangeable jewelry, or novel materials and techniques. A patent grants the inventor the exclusive right to use, make, and sell the invention for a limited period, usually 20 years from the filing date of the patent application.

Obtaining a patent involves a rigorous process of proving that the invention is novel, non-obvious, and useful. For jewelry designers, the primary benefit of patent protection lies in safeguarding their innovative techniques and mechanical features, which can provide a competitive edge in the market.

Design Rights

Design rights specifically protect the visual appearance of a product, including its shape, configuration, pattern, and ornamentation. These rights are particularly relevant to the jewelry industry, where the aesthetic appeal of a product is a key selling point. In many jurisdictions, design rights must be registered to be enforceable, though some countries offer unregistered design rights that provide limited protection.

Registering a design right involves submitting detailed representations of the design to the relevant authority, such as the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) for protection within the EU. Registered design rights typically offer protection for up to 25 years, subject to renewal fees.

Steps to Protect Jewelry Designs

Document Your Designs: Maintain detailed records of your design process, including sketches, prototypes, and finished pieces. This documentation can serve as evidence of originality and ownership in case of disputes.
Conduct Searches: Before launching a new design, conduct thorough searches to ensure it does not infringe on existing intellectual property. This can prevent legal issues and costly disputes.
Register Your IP: Where applicable, register your copyrights, trademarks, patents, and design rights with the appropriate authorities. Registration enhances protection and provides legal advantages in enforcing your rights.
Use NDAs and Contracts: When working with manufacturers, suppliers, and collaborators, use non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) and detailed contracts to protect your designs and outline the terms of use. ( Check out EJ: A Jewelry Manufacturer with NDA’s.
Monitor the Market: Regularly monitor the market for potential infringements. This can involve online searches, attending trade shows, and staying informed about competitors’ activities.
Take Legal Action if Necessary: If you discover an infringement, take prompt legal action to enforce your rights. This may involve sending cease-and-desist letters, pursuing litigation, or seeking alternative dispute resolution methods.

Challenges and Considerations

While intellectual property rights offer significant protection, there are challenges and limitations to consider. The cost and complexity of obtaining and enforcing IPR can be prohibitive, especially for small designers and startups. Additionally, the global nature of the jewelry market means that protections obtained in one jurisdiction may not be recognized elsewhere, necessitating international strategies for comprehensive protection.

Moreover, the fast-paced nature of fashion and jewelry trends can make lengthy registration processes impractical for certain designs. In such cases, relying on unregistered design rights or focusing on brand protection through trademarks may be more viable strategies.

Conclusion

Intellectual property rights are a vital tool for protecting the creativity and innovation that drive the jewelry manufacturing industry. By understanding and strategically utilizing copyrights, trademarks, patents, and design rights, designers can safeguard their creations, enhance their competitive edge, and ensure they reap the financial rewards of their ingenuity. As the industry continues to evolve, staying informed about IPR and adapting to emerging challenges will be crucial for sustaining success in the dynamic world of jewelry design.