Intellectual Property Pulse

Using dominant competitor's part names/numbers for comparison isn't false advertising, TM infringement, or (c) infringement

43(B)log

DECEMBER 18, 2023

Simpson Strong-Tie Co. Simpson or MiTek), which the contractor/subcontractor is responsible for purchasing. MiTek’s product and part names are also descriptive, but MiTek often begins by assigning a MiTek connector in development the same name as the Simpson connector with which MiTek intends to compete.

False Advertising

False Advertising Advertising Advertising Copyright

Berkshire Hathaway Unit's Patent Must Undergo 3 PGRs

IP Law 360

MARCH 25, 2024

The Patent Trial and Appeal Board has instituted three post-grant reviews challenging a single Columbia Insurance Co. fire wall hanger patent, following petitions from Simpson Strong-Tie Company Inc.

Patent

court declines to exclude false ad survey despite variance from TM survey practice

43(B)log

JANUARY 11, 2023

Simpson Strong-Tie Co. 9, 2023) Simpson sued MiTek for Lanham Act and state law false advertising/passing off, and for copyright infringement. Simpson makes structural connectors for use in building construction, and assigns alphanumeric product names for each of its products. 2023 WL 137478, No.

False Advertising

False Advertising Advertising Advertising Reporting

Using dominant competitor's part names/numbers for comparison isn't false advertising, TM infringement, or (c) infringement

Berkshire Hathaway Unit's Patent Must Undergo 3 PGRs

court declines to exclude false ad survey despite variance from TM survey practice

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