The software powering the device is built on the open-source Linux kernel and the open-source WebKit Web browser engine, Rathakrishnan says.

FORBES: Gizmos

In short, Adobe has embraced the open web, contributing input and code to both WC3 web standards and WebKit open source web browser engine.

FORBES: Adobe Announces Amazing Suite Of HTML5 Tools In Bid To Merge Open Source And Profit

"Help us turn Defcad into the world's first unblockable, open-source search engine for 3D printable parts, " says Mr Wilson in the video posted on the website looking for funding.

BBC: 'Pirate Bay' for 3D printing launched

Bearing in mind that he recently revealed the development of a new "open source" search engine to compete for eyeballs with the mighty Google, he is going to need every ounce of optimism he can get.

BBC: NEWS | Technology | Wikipedia founder takes on Google

"Open source has become an engine for innovation in the smart phone and consumer electronics market, " said Teppo Hemia, vice president, 3G Multimedia Platforms Business Unit of ST-Ericsson.

ENGADGET: ARM, Samsung, IBM, Freescale, TI and more join to form Linaro, speed rollout of Linux-based devices