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License & Commercial Use FAQ

OpenPoleMount uses two open source licenses — one for hardware files, one for documentation.

What License Plain meaning
STL files, source CAD CERN-OHL-W-2.0 Open hardware, modifications must stay open
Docs, images, this website CC-BY-SA-4.0 Share freely with attribution

Can I sell printed mounts?

Yes. You can print OpenPoleMount parts and sell them — on Etsy, locally, through a print service, or at scale. No royalties, no permission needed.

The license covers the design files, not the physical objects you print from them.

Can I use this design in a commercial product?

Yes. You can incorporate this design into a commercial product. You can build a business around printing and selling these mounts.

Can I modify the design and sell the modified version?

Yes, with one condition: if you distribute or sell a modified version of the hardware design files (STL, STEP, CAD source), you must release those modified design files under the same open license (CERN-OHL-W-2.0 or compatible).

You cannot take the design, improve it, and keep the improved version proprietary.

The physical objects you sell do not need to be "open source" — only the design files do.

Can I build accessories that attach to the OpenPoleMount block?

Yes, freely. The OpenPoleMount block standard is intentionally open for an accessory ecosystem. You can design, sell, and keep proprietary any accessory that uses the mounting block — as long as you're not modifying and redistributing the cradle design itself.

Can I patent this design or a modification of it?

No. CERN-OHL-W-2.0 includes an express patent non-aggression clause. By using, manufacturing, or distributing products based on this design, you agree not to assert patents against others doing the same. The license is specifically designed to prevent patent lock-down of open hardware.

Can I use the documentation and images on my website or listing?

Yes, with attribution. Documentation and images are under CC-BY-SA-4.0. You can copy, adapt, and republish them as long as you:

  1. Credit OpenPoleMount and link to openpolemount.com
  2. Release any adapted documentation under the same license

Do I need to include the license text when I sell printed parts?

No — you're selling a physical object, not distributing the design files. If you distribute the design files (e.g., upload a remix to Printables or Thingiverse), you must include the license.

What if I just want to print one for myself?

Print freely. No conditions apply to personal use.

Full license texts

This FAQ is a plain-language summary for convenience. The actual licenses govern in all cases.