cover image by IRIE＊DESIGN
Fujifilm and Kodak, long-time competitors in the film photography industry, are set to face off in court. Fujifilm has filed a patent infringement lawsuit against Kodak in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey.
Kodak's 'Sonora X' Faces Lawsuit Over Fujifilm Patents
Fujifilm claims that four of its patents related to 'processless lithographic printing plate technology' (U.S. Patent Nos. 10,427,443, 10,525,696, 10,875,346, 11,294,279) have been infringed. The lawsuit targets Kodak's 'Sonora X' and products sold under the brand name 'Sonora Xtra' for unauthorized commercial manufacturing, use, offers for sale, or importation of 'processless lithographic printing plate products'. Fujifilm seeks damages and injunctive relief.
Technology Focused on Efficiency and Environment: Process-Free Plates
'Process-free plates' are advanced printing plates that do not require traditional chemical processing in the printing process.
Typically, before using a printing plate, multiple chemical processes such as exposure, development, and cleaning are necessary, but process-free plates eliminate these steps. This new technology reduces environmental impact, shortens plate-making time, and contributes to efficiency in the printing industry.
In simple terms, process-free plates are an innovative technology that enables cleaner and faster printing.
Commitment to Protecting Innovation and Intellectual Property
Tommy Katagiri, Head of the Graphic Communications Division at Fujifilm North America, stated, 'Fujifilm is committed to protecting the substantial R&D investments made to provide innovative printing plate technology to customers worldwide. We will act to protect and enhance our innovations and intellectual property rights in the U.S. and globally if others infringe unjustly.'
The lawsuit has prompted an immediate market reaction, with Kodak's stock price dropping by 1% to $4.71.
