If you go into Google and into the Google News section and type in the word patent into the search box, you will find a myriad of news stories about patent infringement lawsuits. Most of the cases get settled out of court. And most are focused on technology products. This post will go through some of the most recent ones and give some details about each case.

The touch screen debate: Microsoft, Apple, LG and several others have been sued by a company called Tsera. Tsera has said that the companies have violated their patent on touch screens. The touch screen is the new hot thing in cell phones and MP3 players, even cameras. When a person thinks touch screen, probably thinks of the I Phone first. But Tsera is saying that the technology is theirs.  The patent that Tsera has says how a user would generally use a touch screen, by moving their fingers on the touch screen or touch pad surface.  The suit claims infringement back from 2004. Tsera does not operate a website or any means to gain more information about them. The suit was filed in East Texas and is awaiting a hearing.

Plavix debate: Plavix is a drug that is marketed by the Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. The drug is supposed to prevent blood platelets from sticking together so heart attacks in certain individuals can be avoided. They just settled a lawsuit for $125 million because of a patent battle surrounding the drug.  The company pleaded guilty to criminal charges due to lying about the patent.

Patents are an important part of the business that goes on in this country and no business is immune from a patent backlash. If you have an idea and want to protect you, the book by Steve Barbarich, “The Complete Manual on How to Make Money from Your Inventions and Patents” is a good resource.

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