Core Viewpoint - The ongoing patent infringement lawsuit between Times Angel and Align Technology highlights the competitive dynamics in the invisible orthodontics market, with Times Angel asserting its market leadership in China despite Align's global dominance [1][2][3]. Group 1: Patent Infringement Lawsuit - Align Technology has filed a patent infringement lawsuit against Times Angel, claiming that Times Angel's products and software infringe on its patents related to multi-layer aligner materials and advanced treatment plans [2]. - Times Angel has denied the allegations, asserting that the claims are baseless and expressing confidence in winning the case [2]. Group 2: Market Position and Performance - Align Technology's core product, Invisalign, holds the top global market share, but Times Angel has surpassed it in the Chinese market, achieving a market share of 41.9% in 2023, which is 10 percentage points higher than Invisalign [1][3]. - Times Angel's revenue and net profit have shown significant growth, with a 28.2% increase in revenue and a 46.6% increase in net profit in 2024 compared to the previous year [4]. - The number of cases completed by Times Angel in China increased by 3.2% to 218,700, while cases outside China surged by 326.4% to 140,700 [4]. Group 3: Competitive Landscape - The competitive landscape in the Chinese invisible orthodontics market is intensifying, with new entrants like Zhengya gradually capturing market share from Times Angel [4][5]. - Times Angel has responded to market competition by strategically investing in the emerging brand Shuyazi, acquiring a 35% stake while maintaining independent operations [5].