ITC Institutes Patent Investigation on Certain Automotive Multimedia Display and Navigation Systems, Components, and Products
The International Trade Commission has instituted a section 337 patent-based investigation of automotive multimedia display and navigation systems, components thereof, and products containing same pursuant to a complaint.
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(The products at issue in this investigation are factory installed and aftermarket navigation systems for automobiles.)
Exclusion and Cease & Desist Orders Requested
The complaint, filed on behalf of Honeywell International Inc. of Morristown, New Jersey, alleges violations of section 337 of the Tariff Act of 1930 based upon the importation into the U.S., the sale for importation, and the sale within the U.S. after importation of certain automotive multimedia display and navigation systems, components thereof, and products containing same that infringe certain claims of U.S. Patent Nos. 6,664,945; 6,700,482; 6,289,277; 6,691,030; 6,308,132; and 5,923,286.
The complainant requests that after the investigation, the ITC issue an exclusion order and cease and desist orders.
Respondents Alleged to Be in Violation of Section 337
The ITC has identified the following respondents alleged to be in violation of section 337:
Alpine Electronics, Inc., of Japan;
Alpine Electronics of America, Inc., of Torrance, CA;
Denso Corporation of Japan;
Denso International America, Inc., of Southfield, MI;
Pioneer Corporation of Japan;
Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. of Long Beach, CA;
Kenwood Corporation of Japan; and
Kenwood USA Corporation of Long Beach, CA.
ALJ to Determine if Violation Occurred
By instituting this investigation, the ITC has not yet made any decision on the merits of the case. The case will be referred to an ITC administrative law judge (ALJ), who will make an initial determination as to whether there is a violation of section 337, which is subject to review by the ITC.
(Within 45 days after institution of the investigation, the ITC will set a target date for completing the investigation. ITC remedial orders in section 337 cases are effective when issued and become final 60 days after issuance unless disapproved for policy reasons by the U.S. Trade Representative within that 60-day period.)
ITC contact - Bryan Moore (202) 205-2767
ITC notice (Inv. No. 337-TA-657, FR Pub 09/22/08) available at http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2008/pdf/E8-22085.pdf
ITC press release (08-091, dated 09/16/08) available at http://www.usitc.gov/ext_relations/news_release/2008/er0916ff1.htm