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Whirlpool Corporation (NYSE: WHR) filed a complaint with the U.S. International Trade Commission requesting an investigation into alleged patent infringement related to its low-profile microwave hood combination products, according to a company statement.
The complaint targets multiple competitors including Samsung, LG, and China-owned GE Appliances, alleging they illegally copied the design for low-profile over-the-range microwaves. Whirlpool has requested orders prohibiting the importation and sale of what it describes as patent-infringing copies of its microwave design.
"The microwave, unlike other microwave hood combinations, is a low profile design that was new to the industry, and exclusive to our brands," said Michael Gross, Whirlpool Corporation senior vice president of product marketing and merchandising. "This design enables consumers to reclaim countertop space and while also increasing cabinet space above the range."
The filing represents Whirlpool's effort to protect what it characterizes as an innovative design in the appliance market. The company stated it dedicates substantial resources to product development and will defend its innovation and intellectual property.
The complaint seeks relief through the International Trade Commission's process for addressing alleged patent violations by imported products. The commission has authority to block imports of products found to infringe U.S. patents.
