Implement Digital Signature and Encryption Support for 3D Model Files

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Summary:

Introduce digital signature and encryption capabilities for 3D model files (e.g., STL, 3MF, STEP), enabling creators to protect their intellectual property by controlling who can access and print their designs. This system will allow users to securely sell or distribute models with assurances that unauthorized reproduction or sale of their designs is minimized.

Motivation:

In the current state, there is a significant challenge in protecting 3D models from unauthorized distribution and sale. Designers and makers who sell their models face the risk of their work being stolen and redistributed, often for profit, without their consent. Adapting cybersecurity principles of digital signing and encryption could be a groundbreaking solution in the 3D printing community to address these concerns.

Proposed Solution:

Digital Signature:

Enable users to digitally sign their 3D model files using a private key once they decide to sell them.
The signature confirms the authenticity of the model and the identity of the original creator.
Encryption:

Allow encryption of model files, ensuring that unauthorized third-party slicers or users cannot access or use the model without proper authorization.
Buyers receive a public key upon purchase, which is used to decrypt the file in authorized slicers.
Slicer Integration:

Incorporate signature and encryption verification within the slicer software.
When a buyer attempts to print a model, the slicer checks for a digital signature, verifies it against the provided public key, and decrypts the file if the key matches.
This ensures that only verified and authorized users can print the model.
Implementation Steps:

Add Digital Signature Support:

Extend the software to incorporate digital signatures for models using a robust and tested cryptographic library.
Provide users a user-friendly interface within the slicer for signing models with private keys.
File Encryption & Decryption:

Integrate encryption capabilities to protect model files during distribution.
Ensure that decryption capabilities are seamlessly integrated, only unlocking files within authorized slicers using the correct public key.
UI/UX Enhancements:

Design an intuitive workflow within the slicer software for users to manage keys, sign models, and decrypt files.
Implement guidance and help documentation for users to understand and leverage this feature effectively.
Collaboration with Community:

Engage with model creators and the wider 3D printing community to refine the system, adapt best practices, and educate on the importance of protecting intellectual property.
Benefits:

Provides a more secure environment for selling and distributing 3D models.
Enhances trust among creators and buyers by ensuring only authorized printing.
Sets a new standard in the 3D printing industry for intellectual property protection.
Conclusion:

Implementing digital signature and encryption support in slicer software represents a significant leap forward in securing 3D printing intellectual property. This feature aligns well with existing cybersecurity frameworks, providing a robust solution to a growing problem in the maker community. Your consideration of this feature request could foster innovation and trust, offering creators the peace of mind to share their work confidently.

Thank you for considering this feature request.