Background
Milwaukee Electric Tool Corp., et al v. Snap-on inc. United States District Court for the Eastern District of Wisconsin Case No. 2:14-cv-01296
Engagement
Patent Infringement Litigation | Technology: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Cordless Power Tools
Case Issues: Milwaukee Tool, a Wisconsin based power-tool company, is a major innovator in the cordless power tool industry. In 2005, Milwaukee Tool introduced the V28™ line of lithium-ion powered tools, the world’s first high-current cordless handheld power tools powered by lithium-based battery packs. The V28™ provided the power of corded tools while being light and compact enough for cordless use. Milwaukee Tool’s parent company, Tooltechnic Industries Co. Ltd., is headquartered in China and is a leading marketer, manufacturer and supplier of power tools and home improvement products. Defendant, Snap-on, Inc., like many toolmakers, introduced lithium-ion battery packs in its tools after Milwaukee Tool’s launch of the V28™.
Plaintiffs alleged that Snap-on, Inc.’s use of the technology described in three of Milwaukee Tool’s patents constituted infringement. Mr. Malackowski testified on behalf of the plaintiffs on the matter of financial damages resulting from the alleged patent infringement. The Ocean Tomo team assisting Mr. Malackowski on the engagement included Rich Lettiere and Chelsea Nacker.
Results
Plaintiffs won on patent validity, infringement and willfulness. The jury awarded damages of $27.8 million, matching Mr. Malackowski’s opinion.