Seoul Semiconductor files a Complaint against Nichia with U.S.I.T.C.
Seoul Semiconductor Corp. filed a complaint with the United States International Trade Commission (USITC) alleging that Nichia Corporation engaged in unfair trade practices through the importation and sales of Gallium Nitride (GaN) based laser diode products that infringe Seoul Semiconductor's U.S. Patent No. 5,321,713 ('713 patent).
Seoul Semiconductor has invested more than $10 million in research and development of laser diode and light emitting diode (LED) related technologies by U.S. based universities and companies. Due to its investments, Seoul Semiconductor has obtained rights to numerous laser diode and LED related patents. These patents, including the '713 patent, complement Seoul's already robust patent portfolio, which includes over 1,000 patents.
Seoul Semiconductor's U.S. Patent No. 5,075,742 ('742) is also asserted in another pending lawsuit against Nichia Corporation for patent infringement through its sale of LEDs. That case is pending in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas and was filed on November 6, 2007. The '742 patent covers technologies related to white, blue, green and UV LEDs and laser diodes.
Seoul Semiconductor anticipates that the ITC's investigation of Nichia Corporation will commence in January 2008 and be tried in the fall of 2008.
About Seoul Semiconductor:
Seoul Semiconductor, the world’s leading LED manufacturer, has been named to Forbes and Business Weeks lists as one of the most promising Asian companies. Its product, Acriche, was recently named as "Product of the Year 2006" by Elektronik, one of the most prestigious electronics magazines in Europe. Seoul semiconductors primary business areas are LED packaging and custom module manufacturing. It provides a full range of LED products including AC-driven semiconductor light source, Acriche, High-brightness Power, Side View, Top, Chip, Lamp and High Flux LEDs, and custom type modules. Applications for the company’s LED products include general lighting, signage, back lighting for mobile phones, TVs, notebook computers, automotive lighting, home appliances, signals, etc. Seoul Semiconductor reported US$200 million in sales in 2006. It has 1,251 patents and 100 licenses as of June 30, 2007. Seoul Semiconductor has 18 branches including 3 overseas corporate offices. Its products are also represented worldwide by more than 90 distributors.
