Bobcat files patent lawsuits against Caterpillar over construction machinery tech

Core Viewpoint - Doosan Bobcat's North American unit has initiated patent infringement lawsuits against Caterpillar and Holt Texas, alleging that Caterpillar's equipment infringes on its patented technologies related to machine control and maneuverability [1][3]. Group 1: Company Background - Bobcat, originally established as Melroe Manufacturing Company in 1947 in North Dakota, was acquired by South Korea's Doosan in 2007 [2]. - The company specializes in compact equipment manufacturing and has played a significant role in the adoption of small-format machines across various industries, including construction, landscaping, forestry, and agriculture [2]. Group 2: Legal Actions - A lawsuit filed in the Texas Eastern District Court involves five patents related to equipment technology, particularly focusing on skid-steer loaders [3]. - Bobcat claims that Caterpillar entered the skid-steer loader market late, beginning production in 1999, approximately 40 years after Bobcat pioneered the market [3]. - The lawsuit accuses Caterpillar of unfair competition by allegedly copying Bobcat's innovations rather than developing its own [3]. - Bobcat is seeking monetary damages and an order to block imports of the infringing equipment [3]. Group 3: International Complaints - In addition to actions in the US, Bobcat has filed related complaints against Caterpillar in a German district court and at the EU's Unified Patent Court [4]. - A spokesperson for Bobcat emphasized that these legal actions aim to protect patented technologies, ensure fair competition, and uphold the innovation that has characterized the company for over 65 years [4].