What's Happening?
Howmet Aerospace Inc. has filed a lawsuit against Stanley Black & Decker Inc. subsidiaries, accusing them of infringing on its patent for a one-sided 'blind' fastener used in solar-panel installations.
The complaint, filed in the US District Court for the District of Delaware, alleges that Stanley Engineered Fastening LLC and its Avdel affiliates copied Howmet's design and installation method with their Avbolt ECO product line. The patent in question, US Patent No. 11,885,358, covers a specific pin-and-sleeve design that does not break off its internal pin, securing materials effectively.
Why It's Important?
This legal action highlights the competitive nature of the fastener market, particularly in the renewable energy sector where solar-panel installations are increasingly common. Patent protection is crucial for companies like Howmet to safeguard their innovations and maintain a competitive edge. The outcome of this lawsuit could have significant implications for both companies involved, potentially affecting their market share and financial performance. It also underscores the importance of intellectual property rights in fostering innovation and competition within the industry.
