dunno guys... ok let's address the issue for what it is and try to keep an open mind.
many companies have had consumer design contests and this is a very interesting, if not great marketing tool... and so as for this contest, call it as you see it... an interesting marketing tool by AT to involve their consumers participation and perhaps even increase brand recognition + loyalty... kata bag manufacturers have also done this and i'm sure there are others as well.
so as for the contest, fine... i don't think it's actually a means of a company trying to get the design work for free...
correct me if i'm wrong but it does seem that this is a community based competition...
if any company's sole objective is to get cheap designs, heck, mick's detailed log is enough for anyone to knock it off and produce it cheaper and not only him but there are many others who've dabbled into custom design and building of cases that are posted in these "public" forums... and copyright protection are just that, words... they carry very little weight in actual and legal protection... unless someone can afford a heavy legal retainer for representation.
now AT does not get off that easily too...
seems your reputation has been tainted by the XS community and perhaps you should address this issue before venturing off into other projects... because as far as i see it, any and all marketing attempts will be tainted by your actions that has caused many wc'ing members to be upset.
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