by Ian on Tue Aug 15, 2006 10:11 am
Ritek and Ciba to settle patent infringement law suits
The patent infringement law suits, Ciba Specialty Chemicals (CIBA) had filed against RiTEK Corporation and its European subsidiaries Conrexx Technology B.V. (also known as Traxdata), RME Manufacturing GmbH, and PrimeDisc Technologies GmbH has been settled, RiTEK Corporation and Ciba Specialty Chemicals Inc., have announced today. Ciba had sued RiTEK because it had found the dye supplied by some of RiTEK’s suppliers, infringed Ciba's phthalocyanine and related CD-R media patents. Ciba holds worldwide patents for its advanced phthalocyanine dyes and disks, which include China and Taiwan, where RiTEK had produced the media. A RiTEK spokesperson commented: "We do not have plentiful knowledge about the dye technology. After a clarification from Ciba, we realize the importance of the technology within the Ciba dye in the dye industry. We regret that we had used for part of our CD-R production a dye from a local supplier that turned out to infringe CIBA's dye and media patents. After this incident we had instantly improved our internal processes to make sure that intellectual property rights are respected and switched back to Ciba's product." From Ciba's side a spokesperson added: "We appreciate that RiTEK has been co-operative in settling this matter and will adopt effective measures to avoid future infringement. We are pleased that the case could be settled on this basis." Both companies are looking forward to continue their business relationship with each other. Further details of the settlement agreement were not disclosed.
Ciba Specialty Chemicals (SWX: CIBN, NYSE: CSB) is a leading global company dedicated to producing high-value effects for its customers’ products. Ciba strives to be the partner of choice for its customers, offering them innovative products and one-stop expert service. Ciba creates effects that improve the quality of life – adding performance, protection, color and strength to textiles, plastics, paper, automobiles, buildings, home and personal care products and much more. Ciba Specialty Chemicals is active in more than 120 countries around the world and is committed to be a leader in its chosen markets. In 2005, the Ciba generated sales of CHF 7.4 billion and invested over CHF 300 million in R&D.
RITEK Corporation, is the largest producer of optical storage media in the world. RITEK for years has been defining and redefining the optical storage market. Around the world, its name is synonymous with innovation, quality, and unparalleled consistency. RITEK’s commitment to quality control is proven by its QS 9000, ISO 14001, ISO 9001, ISO 9002, and Six Sigma certifications.
"Blu-ray is just a bag of hurt." - Steve Jobs
