What was decided
The Unified Patent Court (UPC) ruled that certain VacDrain products infringe Evac patents EP 1 840 282 and EP 1 813 734. The judgment was issued against VacDrain’s parent company and its leadership.
The decision can be appealed within two months; however, as it stands, the court has confirmed infringement and granted the injunction.
The court found that:
-Certain discharge valves directly infringe Evac’s patent EP 1 840 282.
-Certain vacuum buffer devices indirectly infringe Evac’s patent EP 1 813 734.
These are core functional components of vacuum systems.
The ruling includes:
- An injunction covering multiple European countries, (Germany, Finland, France, Italy and the Netherlands in respect of EP 1 840 282 / Germany and Finland in respect of EP 1 813 734).
- Liability for damages.
- In addition, with respect to the discharge valves (EP 1 840 282): orders relating to the recall, removal from trade and destruction of certain infringing products.
What this means
This creates potential risk for anyone continuing to purchase, install, or specify these products.
Evac can support you with alternative solutions if you would like to review your current setup. We can provide suitable alternatives if required.
Further information
Customers seeking further information may contact their Evac representative.
