DNC Int'l Wins Partial Invalidation of Imaging Tech's Camera Patentes

Patent Tribunal Voids Key Claims After Lengthy Legal Battle

Figures of Imaging Tech Innovation's patent titled "Tester for Sensing Quality of Camera Image" (KR2128833) (Source: KIPRIS)

In a significant victory for DNC International, the South Korean Patent Tribunal recently invalidated several claims of Imaging Tech Innovation's patent on a camera quality test device, marking a pivotal decision in a dispute that began in 2020. The invalidated claims include claims 1, 3–5, 7–10, 12–13, and 15 of the patent, titled "Tester for Sensing Quality of Camera Image" (KR2128833). 

The patented technology at the center of the recent dispute involves a device designed to test the image quality of cameras by employing a rotating mechanism for the subject target. This "Tester for Sensing Quality of Camera Image" comprises a camera positioned at a set distance from a movable target, as well as a rotating unit that turns the target to enable the camera to capture and identify the target's distinguishing features accurately. This setup is specifically aimed at assessing whether the camera can precisely capture the identifying components of the moving target, providing a robust solution for camera performance testing.

DNC International initially sought nullification of claims 1 and 3–15, filing an invalidation trial request with the Patent Tribunal in 2020. Though the tribunal originally dismissed DNC's challenge in November 2021, the company pursued the case, appealing to the Patent Court in December 2021.

In a counter-move, Imaging Tech Innovation filed for a correction trial in October 2022 to narrow the patent's scope, likely seeking to strengthen its enforceability by reducing its vulnerability to invalidation. This correction was granted in November 2023, a typical tactic to sustain patent rights while minimizing potential invalidation risks.

However, in August 2024, the Patent Court ruled partially in DNC International's favor, affirming the invalidity of key claims—excluding claims 6, 11, and 14, which remained upheld. Following this decision, the Patent Tribunal finalized its judgment in October 2024, aligning with the Patent Court's ruling to invalidate claims 1, 3–5, 7–10, 12–13, and 15, effectively weakening Imaging Tech Innovation's patent rights on the camera quality testing technology.