Paintball Patent Infringement: Smart Parts' Patent Lacks Proper Inventorship
Smart Parts v. WDP (D. Oregon 2004)
In a patent infringement suit over electropneumatic paintball guns, an inventorship controversy arose. Smart Parts contends it is the sole owner of U.S. Patent No. 6,474,326. Dr. Edward Hensel, a former investor, claims to be a co-inventor. Hensel, now acting on behalf of WDP, provided evidence that he designed various elements of the patented invention - namely the electrical timing circuit and bolt action control. In addition, Hensel created a working model in his home. The court agreed that Hensel should be at least a co-inventor and granted summary judgment to WDP on the issue of inventorship.
Links:
Opinion;
Dale Ford's Commentary
Recent Comments