NIH 3D is a free digital repository of 3D model files provided by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). These Terms and Conditions establish usage guidelines, protect content owners’ rights, and support long-term access to high-quality content for the research community.

By using NIH 3D, you agree to these Terms and Conditions. Any use beyond their scope may result in account termination.

2.1 Visitors

Anyone may browse and download content from NIH 3D (“Visitors”).

2.2 Registered Users

To upload models, post comments, or use advanced features, you must register for an account. Registered individuals are referred to as “Users.” Users must provide accurate information and keep it up to date.

Accounts may be deleted at any time. However, content uploaded by Users will remain unless removal is requested. To request removal, please contact us.

2.3 User Responsibilities

Users are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of their login credentials and for all activity under their accounts. Users must notify NIH 3D of any unauthorized use or security breach.

NIH 3D reserves the right to edit, remove, or modify any submitted material without notice.

3.1 User-Contributed Models

Users must not submit any protected health information or personal identifiers. All image files and data must be de-identified. Users must not attempt to re-identify individuals from submitted content.

Users must not upload materials that:

• Violate copyright or intellectual property rights.
• Are defamatory, obscene, abusive, or invasive of privacy.
• Contain malware, advertisements, or misleading information.
• Users agree to indemnify and hold NIH harmless from any claims arising from their content. NIH 3D does not proactively screen submissions for IRB or ethical compliance. However, content may be removed if a complaint is received or a violation is identified.

3.2 Data Release

By submitting data, Users certify they are the original source and authorized to release it, including any necessary IRB approvals. Users are responsible for consulting their institution’s technology transfer office before disclosing potentially patentable information.

3.3 Restrictions on Facial Data

Users must not upload or share identifiable facial data (e.g., CT scans, 3D reconstructions) without documented consent from the individual. Such data may be submitted for processing (e.g., segmentation), but raw data must not be made public without explicit consent.

All raw anatomical data is reviewed by NIH 3D before public release. Derived models are not reviewed if the raw data is not public. Users are solely responsible for compliance with privacy, consent, and ethical standards. Violations may result in content removal or account suspension.

4.1 NIH Intellectual Property

NIH 3D trademarks, software, and related intellectual property may not be used without prior permission.

4.2 Use of Names and Logos

Users may not use the names, logos, or trademarks of NIH, DHHS, or any NIH component in a way that implies endorsement or affiliation without approval.

NIH 3D may use user-contributed content for promotional purposes within the limits of the content’s license. NIH 3D will not use a User’s name without prior consent, except as required for attribution.

4.3 Licensing of Entries

Users are responsible for selecting and applying the appropriate license to their content. NIH 3D does not enforce license terms on behalf of contributors. It is the responsibility of the uploading User to monitor and enforce compliance with the license they have chosen.

While many entries in NIH 3D fall under public domain or Creative Commons licenses (e.g., CC-BY), others may have more restrictive terms. Visitors and other Users must review and comply with the licensing terms associated with each file before use.

5.1 General Waiver

NIH 3D is not liable for damages resulting from the use of 3D printed models.

5.2 Medical Disclaimer

3D models are not intended for medical diagnosis or treatment. They are for illustrative and educational purposes only.

5.3 Hardware and Lab Equipment

Users are responsible for ensuring proper materials, printing, and safe use of any hardware models downloaded from NIH 3D.

5.4 Scientific Models

Users must independently verify any scientific conclusions drawn from 3D models.

5.5 Custom Content

NIH 3D may moderate content for scientific relevance but does not guarantee accuracy. Custom illustrations may be valuable for visualization even if not verifiable.

5.6 Safety

Neither NIH 3D nor contributing Users are responsible for injuries or damages resulting from use of shared models.

5.7 Medical Guidance

NIH 3D does not provide medical advice. Users should consult healthcare professionals for medical concerns.

5.8 Endorsement

Mention of any company, product, or service does not imply endorsement by NIH. Content reflects the views of the authors, not necessarily those of NIH or the U.S. Government.