ITC Institutes Patent Investigation on GPS/IMU Marine Autopilots
The International Trade Commission has instituted a section 337 patent-based investigation of components for installation of marine autopilots with global positioning systems (GPS) or inertial measurement units (IMU).
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Exclusion and Cease & Desist Orders Requested
The investigation is based on a complaint filed by American GNC of Simi Valley, CA, which alleges violations of section 337 of the Tariff Act of 1930 in the importation into the U.S. and sale of certain components for installation of marine autopilots with GPS or IMU that infringe a patent asserted by American GNC.
The complainant requests that the ITC issue an exclusion order and a cease and desist orders.
Companies Alleged to Be in Violation of Section 337
The ITC has identified the following respondents alleged to be in violation of section 337 in this investigation:
- Flir Systems, Inc., of Wilsonville, OR
- Furuno Electronics Co., Ltd., of Japan
- Furuno U.S.A. Inc. of Camas, WA
- Navico Holding AS of Norway
- Navico UK, Ltd., of the United Kingdom
- Navico, Inc., of Nashua, NH
- Raymarine Inc. of Merrimack, NH
- Raymarine UK Ltd. of the United Kingdom
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.)
(Press release dated 09/22/10, Inv. No. 337-TA-738)