February 7, 2023

Canon Inc.

Canon files new toner-cartridge-related patent infringement lawsuits against Print-Rite in U.S. and Germany

TOKYO, February 7, 2023—Canon Inc. today announced the filing of complaints in the U.S. and Germany against Print-Rite Unicorn Image Products Co., Ltd., Union Technology International (MCO) Co. Ltd., Print-Rite Imaging Technology Inc., and Unideatec S.a.s. for infringement of Canon's U.S. and European patents.

Specifically, Canon filed a complaint in the U.S. District Court for the District of Delaware against Print-Rite Imaging Technology Inc. and Union Technology International (MCO) Co. Ltd. for infringement of Canon's U.S. Patent No. 11,169,483.

On the same day, Canon filed a complaint with the District Court of Düsseldorf in Germany against Print-Rite Unicorn Image Products Co., Ltd. of Zhuhai, Union Technology International (MCO) Co., Ltd., and Unideatec S.a.s. for use of the German portion of Canon's European Patent No. 3 470 931 B1.

As set forth in the respective complaints, Print-Rite sells HP-compatible toner cartridges that Canon believes infringe its aforementioned patents. The U.S. and German complaints demonstrate how Print-Rite's CF248A and CF244A cartridges, for example, infringe certain claims of these patents. Print-Rite offers and sells the infringing toner cartridges online, including through Print-Rite websites such as union-tec.com, printriteimaging.com and/or pr-europa.com. Among other relief, Canon is seeking injunctions in both proceedings as well as damages in the U.S. and a declaratory judgement on damages in Germany.

Throughout the development, sales and marketing process, Canon respects the intellectual property of other companies and individuals and expects others to similarly respect Canon's intellectual property rights. Canon remains committed to pursuing legal enforcement against those who do not respect Canon's intellectual property.