FAQs and Use Cases
A) What is considered a derivative work?
A derivative work includes:
Any modifications made to the original 3D files (e.g., STL, STEP, CAD).
New 3D models created by combining one or more original modular elements with other parts.
Adjustments to the design, functionality, or purpose of the original components (e.g., resizing, adding features, or combining with other systems).
If your work incorporates even a single element from the original designs, it is considered a derivative and must comply with this license.
B) How to share editable files with your community?
When distributing your modified designs, the license requires you to share:
Editable files in a format that allows others to make further changes (e.g., CAD files like Fusion360, SolidWorks, or FreeCAD).
Any compiled formats (e.g., STL or STEP files) necessary for immediate use or manufacturing.
Sharing can be done via open platforms such as GitHub, GrabCAD, Thingiverse, or similar repositories. Always include attribution to the original project and a copy of the license with your files.
C) What does “open-sourcing derivatives” mean?
Open-sourcing derivatives means that if you modify or combine the Licensed Material:
You must distribute the modified work under the same license.
You must make the derivative work publicly accessible, along with any editable and printable files.
Your contributions must remain freely usable by others in the community under the same terms.
This ensures the designs stay open and fosters collaborative innovation.
D) Can I use these designs in proprietary projects?
Yes, you can use these modular designs in proprietary systems. However:
Any modular element or derivative based on the Licensed Material must remain open-source.
You must clearly distinguish between the open-source components and any proprietary elements.
You must not restrict access to the Licensed Material when it is part of your project.
For example, you can incorporate the designs into a larger proprietary system, but the modular elements themselves must still be made available under this license.
E) Why are patents prohibited?
This license prohibits patents to ensure that no one can claim exclusive rights to the designs, their derivatives, or combinations. This:
Protects the community from restrictions on using, sharing, or modifying the designs.
Prevents monopolization of ideas that belong to the open-source ecosystem.
Encourages collaboration and prevents legal disputes over the use of these designs.
Patents undermine the spirit of open-source innovation, which is why they are explicitly prohibited here.
F) What are modular components, and why are they special?
Modular components are 3D designs intended to be easily combined, adapted, or extended to suit a wide range of applications. For example:
A vertical garden module can also serve as a base for a wind turbine or water filtration system.
Different users can adapt the same part for diverse purposes, fostering creativity and innovation.
The modular nature of these designs makes them versatile and community-friendly, encouraging collaboration and shared knowledge in urban gardening, renewable energy, and more.
G) How does this project contribute to urban sustainability?
This project promotes urban sustainability by:
Encouraging the use of modular designs to grow plants in small or unconventional spaces.
Facilitating community-driven innovation to tackle urban challenges like food insecurity or waste management.
Fostering skill-sharing and collaboration among citizens to build a network of sustainable ideas.
Supporting the creation of regenerative systems, such as greywater filtration or composting units, that contribute to a greener cityscape.
By participating, you are helping create more sustainable urban environments while sharing knowledge and empowering others.
X. Which elements are open sourced by the afore mentioned license?
- V2 Soilless Two 2″ Netpot Piece
- V2 Soilless One 2″ Netpot Piece
- V2 Soilless/Substrate Closed Piece
- V2 Substrate Shelf
V2 signifies the compatible connection mechanism for the aponix Vertical Barrel pieces that we used between 2016 and 2020 for the Version 2 Soilless Vertical Barrels and that we are still using for our Substrate Vertical Barrel.
How can you obtain the 3D data for these elements? Find the element in the Components area and put them into your cart. They have a price of 0,00EUR. You can download the data on the checkoout .