Amazon sellers beware! A patent infringement case involving shoe washing bags is underway. The plaintiff is Hanyuanhengfeng Xinxikeji Youxian Gongsi. The shoe washing bags in question feature a specific mesh and fleece design. Sellers are advised to self-inspect their products to avoid potential infringement risks. Check your listings for similar designs to avoid legal issues.
Chinese seller Xia Zou initiated a design patent enforcement action in the US (case number 24-cv-11094) regarding a butterfly-shaped cervical pillow. The pillow features an ergonomic design intended to provide optimal support and alleviate neck pain. Relevant sellers are advised to conduct self-checks to avoid potential infringement risks. This case highlights the importance of intellectual property protection in cross-border e-commerce.
New USPTO rules mandate that foreign patent applicants must engage US-registered patent attorneys or agents for patent-related matters. This aims to improve application quality and efficiency, and maintain system integrity by preventing procedural errors that could lead to application failure. Companies are advised to review existing applications promptly, select qualified representation, and ensure a compliant transition to mitigate the risk of patent invalidation or litigation. This proactive approach is crucial for safeguarding intellectual property rights in the US.
The European Patent Office (EPO) will increase official fees from April 1, 2026, with an average rise of 5-8%. Companies should comprehensively review pending and granted patents, prepay fees where possible, file applications early, and streamline claims to mitigate rising costs. In the long term, optimizing patent application strategies and exploring ways to maximize patent value are crucial to offset the impact of the fee increases. Proactive planning and strategic adjustments are essential for maintaining cost-effectiveness in European patent protection.
Whitewood law firm is representing Flying Orb Ball fidget spinner in a patent infringement lawsuit, case number 24-cv-13398. This product, popular for its innovative design and entertainment value, is involved in a U.S. design patent (Patent No. US D891,522S). Sellers are advised to be aware of the potential infringement risks and avoid unnecessary losses.
This article provides a concise guide for cross-border e-commerce sellers on conducting US design patent searches. It focuses on how to utilize the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) website for quick and effective patent searches. The article demonstrates specific operational steps with examples, aiming to help sellers reduce infringement risks and protect their own rights. It offers practical advice on navigating the USPTO database and understanding key search terms to identify potential design patent conflicts before launching products in the US market.
This article provides an in-depth analysis of the standards for determining patent infringement in the United States, including literal infringement, the doctrine of equivalents, and design patent infringement. It details the specific determination methods and precautions for each standard. The aim is to help cross-border enterprises understand the risks of US patent infringement, develop effective response strategies, and protect their intellectual property, thereby achieving success in the US market. This knowledge empowers businesses to navigate the complexities of US patent law and mitigate potential legal challenges.
The Qwik Mag II™ magnetic stud finder, known for its strong magnetic force, battery-free operation, and rapid location capabilities, received a US patent (Patent No. US D614980 S). This product utilizes rare earth magnets and features a spherical design, enabling users to precisely locate studs or screws. Although the patent has expired, its design concept and innovative spirit remain valuable for reference. It offers a simple and effective solution for finding hidden metal objects behind walls.
This article provides a practical guide for cross-border e-commerce sellers on searching design patents and trademarks in the US and Europe. It details how to effectively and quickly search for design patent and trademark information in the US and EU markets using tools like WIPO, EUIPO, and TMview, employing keywords, Locarno Classification, and International Classification. This guide helps sellers mitigate infringement risks and ensure smooth business operations.
This article reveals the potential infringement risks behind popular sports water bottles on Amazon. By analyzing the success factors of best-selling water bottles and relevant patent information, it reminds sellers to conduct a comprehensive infringement check before selecting and listing products to avoid losses due to infringement. It also provides some suggestions for avoiding infringement risks, emphasizing the importance of due diligence in product sourcing and design to protect businesses from legal repercussions and financial penalties associated with intellectual property violations.
