This decision seems to raise a lot more questions than it answers.
Digital Models Not Subject To Copyright
Meshwerks loses copyright appeal
If the modelers can't copyright their work, do they have no say in how their client uses the models? Does this mean they'll have to turn down this kind of work in the future, or charge exorbitant rates since they are effectively relinquishing all rights to their work?
If the models have no copyright, can others use them freely, or just the original copyright holder (i.e. Toyota)? If the former is the case, then that would affirm that we are free to incorporate recognized furniture pieces and vehicles into our renderings.
I didn't have the patience to read the entire legal decision, but it would be interesting to have a lawyer explain the implications of the decision.
Jack