I just think its important for guys submitting confusingly similar designs of existing minifigures to know that other "artists" and collectors are watching. I get that the unintentional duplication of ideas is bound to happen, but the scene is so small and specialized that it really makes you wonder. This is especially the case when "new" ideas are based on designs that already exist in little rubber guy form (and were posted years ago on the OT forums).
Having ideas lifted by a big toy line could be devastating to small indie DYI toy producers. This is especially the case when:
People could mistake it as your submission.
It would be the same type and style of minifigure as the existing minifigures that someone has already produced.
Collectors could buy one thinking it is another person's brand or character.
You would be competing in the same sphere for customers.
The figures would be sold at similar events and online venues.
The figures would be marketed towards the same and/or similar customer base.
The figures would be sold to the same or similar customer base.
Parodies, spoofs, and tasteful omages are another thing all together. Most minifigure lines exist as an open nod to something else already out there. If you are going to parody another idea though, try doing something original or clever with it. There are a few submission based on cartoon characters and other designs that are almost exactly the same...
George and crew are smart enough though to handle this, and I seriously doubt that any submission would ever get through that would be a problem. I am more concerned about putting jokers in check who try to get away with sneaky sh!% when they think no one is looking. I wish the series the best of luck.