German mechanical engineering company Windmöller & Hölscher (W&H) has successfully resolved a patent dispute with a Chinese manufacturer, reaching a settlement that underscores the company’s commitment to protecting its intellectual property.
The case centred on eight patents relating to W&H’s Convertex, a machine used for manufacturing woven bags. As part of the agreement, the Chinese manufacturer admitted to infringing at least one claim in each of the eight patents and will permanently cease production and distribution of the affected machines. The company will also pay damages.
Dr Falco Paepenmüller, CEO of W&H, welcomed the outcome, stating: “We are very satisfied with the outcome of this dispute and feel vindicated. As a technology leader, we make continuous and substantial investments in research and development. Protecting these innovations through patents is critical, and we take consistent action against infringements to safeguard our long-term competitive advantage.”
The patents in question cover nearly the entire Convertex production chain – from perforation of the tubing material through to ejection of defective bags. W&H says these patented functions are vital for enabling high production speeds, consistent bag quality, and flexible format changes.
While purchasers and users of machines employing patented technologies without licence could be subject to legal action, W&H has chosen not to pursue such cases in this instance. However, chief sales officer Dr Sascha Witt emphasised that the company reserves the right to act in future: “We will continue to protect our customers who invest in patented technology. Respect for intellectual property is the foundation of fair competition and sustainable innovation in our industry.”
According to W&H, the settlement ensures protection of its developments while reinforcing the value of its patented technology for customers manufacturing high-quality woven bags on its systems.
