diff --git a/handbook/process/logo.md b/handbook/process/logo.md index ca68503..16ad0a3 100644 --- a/handbook/process/logo.md +++ b/handbook/process/logo.md @@ -1,7 +1,7 @@ --- title: "FreeCAD brand guidelines" description: - "The brand guidelines describe the proper use of the FreeCAD logo and other FPA branded resources." + "The brand guidelines describe the proper use of the FreeCAD logo, general usage guidelines, and compliance information for authors and commercial users." layout: default --- @@ -9,6 +9,8 @@ layout: default {{page.description}} +This page provides comprehensive guidelines for properly referencing and using FreeCAD in various contexts, including books, commercial content, and other materials. + ### Logo Kit @@ -86,6 +88,97 @@ We have made some examples of what **not** to do when using the logo: Download the [FreeCAD brand guidelines](../../images/logos/guidelines/guidelines.pdf) as a PDF. These are also included in the logo kit at the top of the page. +## General FreeCAD Usage Guidelines + +### Proper Reference + +When referring to FreeCAD in any content, please use the following guidelines: + +> You can use the FreeCAD logo when referring to the software project hosted at https://freecad.org, compiled from the source located at https://github.com/FreeCAD/FreeCAD, and digitally signed by The FreeCAD project association AISBL (where applicable). Any links or instructions on how to obtain the software should refer to the 'freecad.org' domain. + +### Naming Conventions + +- Use "FreeCAD" as a single word with capital "F" and "CAD" +- Do not use "Freecad", "freecad", "Free Cad", or other variations + +### Attribution Requirements + +- Include attribution to FreeCAD when using screenshots or featuring the software +- Provide links to https://freecad.org for downloads and official information +- When mentioning the source code, reference https://github.com/FreeCAD/FreeCAD +- For digitally signed releases, mention "The FreeCAD project association AISBL" + +## Addons and Third-Party Content + +### License Responsibility + +FreeCAD does not dictate the licenses used by addon authors. Addons may have licenses or include graphics and assets that have licenses different from the main project. + +**Important:** If you intend to use addons in your own FreeCAD related content, it is your responsibility to make sure you comply with the addon licenses. + +### Best Practices for Addon Usage + +- Always check the license of each addon before including it in your content +- Some addons may have commercial restrictions that differ from FreeCAD's license +- Provide proper attribution for addon authors as required by their licenses +- Include license information for all addons used in your documentation or books +- When in doubt, contact the addon author directly for clarification + +### Finding Addon License Information + +- Check the addon's documentation or README file +- Review the license files in the addon's repository +- Look for license headers in the source code +- Visit the addon's official page or repository for licensing details + +## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) + +### Can I use FreeCAD screenshots in my book? + +Yes, you can use screenshots of FreeCAD in your book. FreeCAD is licensed under LGPL 2.0+, which generally allows for documentation and educational use. + +### Do I need permission to write a book about FreeCAD? + +No, you do not need special permission to write a book about FreeCAD. However, you should follow these guidelines. + +### Can I sell FreeCAD training courses or tutorials? + +Yes, you can create and sell training courses about FreeCAD. The LGPL license allows for commercial educational content. + +### How should I refer to FreeCAD in academic papers? + +In academic papers, cite FreeCAD as "FreeCAD (version number), available from https://freecad.org". Include the version number you used and the official website URL. + +### Can I modify the FreeCAD logo for my own use? + +No, the FreeCAD logo should not be modified. Use the official logos as provided in the logo kit without alterations to colors, shapes, or styling. + +### What if I need to use older versions of FreeCAD? + +Older versions are available through the GitHub repository and may be archived on freecad.org. When referencing specific versions, always include the version number and download source. + +### How do I handle multiple addons with different licenses? + +You must comply with each addon's individual license requirements. This may mean providing different attributions, following different usage restrictions, or even excluding certain addons from commercial content. + +### Can I bundle FreeCAD with my commercial software? + +Yes, FreeCAD's LGPL license allows for distribution with commercial software, but you must comply with LGPL requirements, including making the source code available and including proper attribution and license notices. + +### I'm selling my book/video/content. Do I need to pay royalties? + +No, you do not need to pay royalties to use FreeCAD in your content. However, FreeCAD is built and maintained by a community of volunteers. Purely commercial ventures that don't respect this and don't try to "give back" to the community often face criticism and may lose community support. Be a good citizen and consider how you can contribute back to the community. Financial donations can be made to the FreeCAD project association AISBL. + + +## Additional Resources + +- [FreeCAD Official Website](https://freecad.org) +- [FreeCAD Source Code](https://github.com/FreeCAD/FreeCAD) +- [FreeCAD Addon Repository](https://github.com/FreeCAD/FreeCAD-addons) +- [LGPL License Information](https://www.gnu.org/licenses/lgpl-2.1.html) + +For specific questions not covered here, please contact the FreeCAD community through the official forums or GitHub discussions. +