是说芯语·2025-11-26 06:06Core Viewpoint - The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) has initiated a "337 investigation" into specific liquid crystal devices and components, targeting several Chinese companies, including Huike, Hisense, and TCL, as well as international firms like LG and Westinghouse. This investigation stems from a complaint by BH Innovations LLC, alleging patent infringement on two U.S. patents [1][2]. Group 1: Investigation Details - The investigation was triggered by a complaint filed on August 29, claiming that certain products exported to and sold in the U.S. infringe on two U.S. patents (patent numbers 7,705,948 and 7,570,334). The ITC may issue exclusion and cease-and-desist orders if infringement is found [1]. - The implicated Chinese companies are significant players in the display industry, with Huike being a manufacturer of panels and terminal devices, while Hisense and TCL hold over 50% of the North American television market share [1]. Group 2: Involved Companies - The list of defendants includes numerous companies from various countries, such as: - Chinese companies: Guangdong Huike, Chongqing Huike, Hisense Group, TCL Electronics, and others [2]. - U.S. companies: HiSense US Corporation, VIZIO Holding Corp., TTE Technology Inc., LG Electronics USA, and Westinghouse Electric Corporation [3]. - Other international companies: TCL Smart Device (Vietnam) Co. Ltd. and LG Electronics, Inc. from South Korea [3]. Group 3: Industry Context - This is not the first instance of Chinese display companies facing a 337 investigation; Corning has previously initiated similar investigations against Chinese firms, focusing on patent barriers. Industry experts suggest that these investigations aim to curb the technological advancements of the Chinese display industry, particularly after domestic companies have significantly reduced the prices of products like glass substrates [3]. Group 4: Response Strategies - Chinese companies are not without recourse; for instance, BOE successfully defended against a previous OLED patent investigation by engaging in proactive measures and patent invalidation strategies. The current defendants have also begun their response procedures, including filing for patent invalidation reviews with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. However, the investigation process typically lasts 16-18 months, during which companies face high litigation costs and potential market share fluctuations [4].