Surf’s up as surfboard manufacturers MHL Custom, Inc. (MHL) and Waydoo USA, Inc. (Waydoo) have resolved a patent infringement suit involving their hydrofoil designs. The case centered on MHL's patents for the eFoil design, used in their LiftFoil products, with Waydoo accused of infringing these patents through its eFoil boards, including the Waydoo Flyer and Waydoo Flyer ONE.
Key Developments:
Patent Infringement Allegations: MHL alleged that Waydoo’s products infringed on their '044 and '659 Patents, covering hydrofoil stability and propulsion systems. MHL sought an injunction and damages, while Waydoo counterclaimed, arguing invalidity based on prior art.
Summary Judgment Rulings: The court denied Waydoo’s motion for summary judgment on the '659 Patent due to sufficient evidence of infringement but also denied MHL's motion on the '044 Patent due to a dispute over static stability.
Trial and Verdict: A jury found Waydoo liable for infringing the '659 Patent, awarding MHL $1.3 million in damages (including $500 per board sold by Waydoo). The court denied Waydoo's motions for judgment as a matter of law and new trial.
Post-Trial Remedies: MHL sought but was denied a permanent injunction. However, the court granted supplemental damages for a specific period and allowed negotiations for royalties instead of awarding attorney's fees.
Appeal and Settlement: Waydoo appealed to the Federal Circuit but later dropped the appeal, enabling both parties to settle out of court.
Outcome:
The case resolved with MHL receiving substantial damages, while Waydoo avoided further legal proceedings. The settlement underscores the significance of intellectual property rights in the competitive surfboard industry, emphasizing the need for innovative designs to be protected while fostering potential future collaborations or licensing agreements between companies.
Protect Your Brand, 24/7 with IP Defender
In today’s interconnected world, safeguarding your brand and intellectual property is no longer optional. Companies like MHL and Waydoo recognize the importance of protecting their innovations from infringement. Their legal battle illustrates how even groundbreaking designs can be vulnerable without proper monitoring.
This is where IP Defender comes into play. As a cutting-edge trademark monitoring service, IP Defender scans national trademark databases across regions such as the EU, USA, Australia, and others. Its advanced AI-driven systems detect potential conflicts and infringements before they escalate, allowing businesses to take proactive measures in protecting their brands.
Stay Ahead of Trademark Threats with IP Defender
By using IP Defender, companies can monitor trademarks in over 40 national databases, including the EUTM and WIPO registries. This comprehensive monitoring ensures no potential threats go unnoticed - whether it’s a competitor registering a similar name or design or an independent inventor claiming rights to your creation.
Guard Your Trademarks with IP Defender
Trademark ownership demands ongoing protection, and IP Defender simplifies this process with its user-friendly platform. While the service doesn’t provide legal services, its monitoring ensures you’re prepared for disputes or litigation. Leveraging AI and machine learning technology, IP Defender offers a cost-effective solution tailored to businesses of all sizes.
Unmatched IP Protection with IP Defender
The stakes are high when it comes to intellectual property. A single misstep can lead to costly fines, lost revenue, and damage to your brand’s reputation. IP Defender’s continuous monitoring ensures your trademarks remain robust and secure, mitigating the risk of legal challenges.
IP Defense, Always On with IP Defender
Don’t wait until it’s too late to protect your innovations. With IP Defender, you can monitor trademarks in real-time and respond swiftly to potential threats. This isn’t just about preventing legal issues - it’s about maintaining trust with customers and stakeholders who rely on your brand’s integrity.
Empower Your Brand with IP Defender
In today’s competitive landscape, intellectual property is a cornerstone of success. IP Defender provides the tools you need to protect it effectively. By staying vigilant and informed, you can avoid costly disputes and ensure your brand remains untarnished.
The surfboard manufacturers’ case serves as a stark reminder of what happens when intellectual property isn’t prioritized. With IP Defender, you can take control of your trademark protection and safeguard your innovations for years to come.