Infineon Broadens GaN Patent Case Against Innoscience

Infineon Technologies, a leading semiconductor company based in Germany, has recently taken legal action to protect its intellectual property rights by expanding its patent lawsuit against Innoscience, a Chinese electronics manufacturer. This move comes in response to a challenge to Infineon's original case, highlighting the ongoing battle over innovative technologies in the global market.

Last month, Infineon secured an injunction in Germany to prevent Innoscience from showcasing its Gallium Nitride (GaN) parts at the PCIM tradeshow. The injunction was based on patent 9,899,481, which pertains to a fundamental switch design crucial to Infineon's product portfolio. However, Innoscience has contested the injunction, arguing that it only applies to the tradeshow and raising questions about the validity of the original patent.

Building on its legal strategy, Infineon has recently bolstered its case in the United States by adding three additional patents to the lawsuit. These patents include 8,686,562 for a Refractory metal nitride capped electrical contact and method for fabricating, 9,070,755 for a transistor having elevated drain finger termination, and 8,264,003 for a merged cascode transistor. By expanding the scope of its claims, Infineon aims to strengthen its position in the ongoing legal dispute.

Meanwhile, a judge in the US is currently evaluating the validity of another GaN patent, '294, in a separate case brought by Efficient Power Conversion (EPC) against Innoscience. A ruling on this matter is expected in March 2025, underscoring the complexity and significance of intellectual property disputes in the semiconductor industry. The outcome of the EPC lawsuit against Innoscience hinges on the decision regarding the '294 patent, with both parties eagerly awaiting the final verdict.

As the legal battle unfolds, both Infineon Technologies and Innoscience continue to navigate the intricacies of patent law and innovation in the competitive semiconductor market. With technology playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of various industries, safeguarding intellectual property rights remains a top priority for companies seeking to maintain their competitive edge. For more information on the latest developments in this case, visit the official websites of Infineon Technologies (www.infineon.com) and Innoscience (www.innoscience.com).