September 22, 2010
News Release 10-108
Inv. No(s). 337-TA-738
Contact: Peg O'Laughlin, 202-205-1819
USITC Institutes Section 337 Investigation on Certain Components for Installation of Marine Autopilots with GPS or IMU

The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) has voted to institute an investigation of components for installation of marine autopilots with GPS or IMU. The products at issue in this investigation are marine autopilots.

The investigation is based on an amended complaint filed by American GNC of Simi Valley, CA, on September 16, 2010. The initial complaint was filed on August 26, 2010. The amended complaint alleges violations of section 337 of the Tariff Act of 1930 in the importation into the United States and sale of certain components for installation of marine autopilots with GPS or IMU that infringe a patent asserted by American GNC. The complainant requests that the USITC issue an exclusion order and cease and desist orders.

The USITC has identified the following as respondents in this investigation:

  • Furuno Electronics Co., Ltd., of Japan;

  • Furuno U.S.A. Inc. of Camas, WA;

  • Navico Holding AS of Norway;

  • Navico UK, Ltd., of the United Kingdom;

  • Navico, Inc., of Nashua, NH;

  • Flir Systems, Inc., of Wilsonville, OR;

  • Raymarine UK Ltd. of the United Kingdom; and

  • Raymarine Inc. of Merrimack, NH.

By instituting this investigation (337-TA-738), the USITC has not yet made any decision on the merits of the case. The USITC's Chief Administrative Law Judge will assign the case to one of the USITC's six administrative law judges (ALJ), who will schedule and hold an evidentiary hearing. The ALJ will make an initial determination as to whether there is a violation of section 337; that initial determination is subject to review by the Commission.

The USITC will make a final determination in the investigation at the earliest practicable time. Within 45 days after institution of the investigation, the USITC will set a target date for completing the investigation. USITC remedial orders in section 337 cases are effective when issued and become final 60 days after issuance unless disapproved for policy reasons by the U.S. Trade Representative within that 60-day period.

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