Whirlpool has filed a lawsuit with the U.S. International Trade Commission seeking to halt imports of microwave ovens from Samsung and LG Electronics, alleging patent infringement. The complaint, filed Tuesday, centers on technology related to inverter technology used in the appliances.
The dispute impacts a significant segment of the U.S. microwave market, potentially disrupting supply and pricing for consumers. Whirlpool asserts that Samsung and LG have been unlawfully utilizing its patented inverter technology,which improves efficiency and cooking performance. A ruling in Whirlpool’s favor could lead to import bans,forcing the South Korean companies to redesign their microwave products or seek licensing agreements.
According to the complaint, Whirlpool’s patents cover key aspects of inverter technology used to power microwave ovens, allowing for more precise and efficient heating. The company claims Samsung’s and LG’s microwaves infringe on these patents, giving them an unfair competitive advantage.
“Whirlpool has made substantial investments in developing innovative microwave oven technology,” a company spokesperson stated. “We will vigorously protect our intellectual property rights.”
The U.S. International Trade Commission will investigate the claims and determine whether a violation of Section 337 of the Tariff Act of 1930 has occurred. This law allows U.S. companies to seek relief from unfair competition resulting from patent infringement by imported goods.
The inquiry is expected to take approximately 18 months, with a final decision potentially leading to import bans or cease-and-desist orders. Samsung and LG have not yet publicly commented on the lawsuit. Blake Brittain of Reuters reports that the case is Whirlpool Corp. v. Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. et al., U.S. International Trade Commission, 2024-0011.