Novatech's patent for shield magnet technology has faced two separate invalidation trials but emerged unscathed as the challenges were dismissed. However, the challengers, DIC and Magtron, have now escalated the matter by filing appeals with the Patent Court of Korea.
The patent at the center of the dispute, titled "Method for Producing Shield Magnet and Shield Magnet Produced by the Same" (KR2234093), is owned by Novatech. It outlines a method for manufacturing a shield magnet that can be used in protective cases for devices such as smartphones and tablets, where embedded magnets enable automatic functionality when the case is opened or closed.
Invalidity Claims and Tribunal Decision
DIC initiated the first invalidation trial in April 2023, followed by Magtron in December 2023. Despite filing at different times, both companies targeted claims 8 through 11 of the patent, asserting that they should be invalidated. However, the Korean Intellectual Property Trial and Appeal Board (KIPTAB) dismissed DIC's claims in July 2024, and Magtron's in August 2024.
Both DIC and Magtron have since appealed the decisions, filing suits with the Patent Court in September and October 2024, respectively. As of now, the hearing dates for both cases have yet to be scheduled.
DIC's Connection to Samsung Electronics
DIC, one of the challengers, is notably involved in the production of shield magnets used in Samsung Electronics' Galaxy Z Flip series, a foldable smartphone. The company has publicly stated its role in supplying these magnets via its corporate website.
The contested patent describes a novel method for manufacturing shield magnets that addresses the complexities and high defect rates associated with traditional methods. Novatech's process uses press forging and blanking techniques to form a shield plate with a slot for magnet insertion and a corresponding protrusion. The plate is then cut, polished, and refined to create the final shield magnet.
This method allows for easier adjustment of the slot and protrusion shape, enabling a customizable design for various applications. The resulting shield magnets are built to withstand harsh conditions, including high temperatures, humidity, and salt spray, while maintaining reliable performance.
▷Related Article: Magtron Scores Partial Invalidation Win Against Novatech Patents (2025. 05. 31.)
By PatenTrip
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