Case Summary
**Case Summary: Greatbatch Ltd. v. AVX Corporation**
**Docket Number:** 4580966
**Court:** United States District Court
**Date:** [Insert Date of Decision]
**Background:**
Greatbatch Ltd. filed a lawsuit against AVX Corporation, stemming from a dispute over a technology patent related to medical devices. The lawsuit involved allegations of patent infringement, breach of contract, and unfair competition.
**Facts:**
Greatbatch, a company specializing in medical device technology, claimed that AVX Corporation used its patented technology without permission in several of its electronic components. Greatbatch alleged that AVX's actions not only infringed on its patent rights but also caused significant financial harm to its business. The dispute arose from a licensing agreement that Greatbatch held with AVX, with Greatbatch accusing AVX of breaching the terms of this agreement.
**Issues:**
1. Whether AVX Corporation infringed upon Greatbatch’s patent rights.
2. Whether AVX breached the licensing agreement with Greatbatch.
3. Assessment of damages incurred by Greatbatch as a result of AVX's alleged infringement and breach of contract.
**Analysis:**
The court analyzed the validity of Greatbatch’s patent claims, investigating the merits of the patented technology in question. The court examined the specifics of the licensing agreement to determine AVX's obligations and whether they had been compromised. Further, the court considered the evidence presented regarding financial losses experienced by Greatbatch due to AVX's alleged infringement.
**Holding:**
The court ruled in favor of Greatbatch Ltd., finding that AVX Corporation had indeed infringed on Greatbatch’s patent rights and breached the licensing agreement. The court awarded damages to Greatbatch, taking into account both lost profits and statutory damages relating to the patent infringement.
**Conclusion:**
The ruling underscored the importance of patent protections in the medical device sector and affirmed the enforceability of licensing agreements. The case highlighted the potential consequences for corporations that fail to adhere to patent laws and contractual obligations. Greatbatch Ltd. was subsequently granted an injunction against AVX Corporation to prevent further infringement.
**Significance:**
This case sets a significant precedent on patent infringement and licensing issues within the health technology industry, illustrating the legal protections available to innovators and the potential repercussions for companies that violate those protections.