Modine Manufacturing Company v. Borg-Warner Inc
2:12-cv-00815
E.D. Wis.Mar 12, 2013Background
- Modine filed suit against Borg-Warner alleging direct, contributory, and induced infringement of the '323 patent.
- Borg-Warner moved to dismiss Modine's contributory and induced infringement claims as facially inadequate.
- Modine argued Navistar purchases Borg-Warner’s infringing products and Navistar’s use supports infringement; Borg-Warner allegedly knew of infringement.
- Court analyzes whether the complaint plausibly supports contributory and induced infringement at the pleading stage.
- Court finds Modine’s allegations sufficient to raise a plausible inference of contributory and induced infringement; discovery will clarify facts.
- Order: Borg-Warner's motion to dismiss is denied; case schedule proceeds.
Issues
| Issue | Plaintiff's Argument | Defendant's Argument | Held |
|---|---|---|---|
| Whether the complaint plausibly alleges contributory and induced infringement | Modine argues Navistar’s purchase and Borg-Warner’s knowledge support plausibility. | Borg-Warner contends the complaint lacks sufficient factual matter to state a claim. | Denied; claims plausibly alleged. |
Key Cases Cited
- In re Bill of Lading Transmission and Processing System Patent Litigation, 681 F.3d 1323 (Fed. Cir. 2012) (contributory infringement requires sale of a component for infringing use with no substantial non-infringing use)
- Cross Medical Prods., Inc. v. Medtronic Sofamor Danek, Inc., 424 F.3d 1293 (Fed. Cir. 2005) (inducement requires knowingly aiding infringement)
- DSU Med. Corp. v. JMS Co. Ltd., 471 F.3d 1293 (Fed. Cir. 2006) (inducement and knowledge of infringement elements)
- Ashcroft v. Iqbal, 556 U.S. 662 (U.S. 2009) (pleading standard requires plausible claims)
- Bell Atl. Corp. v. Twombly, 550 U.S. 544 (U.S. 2007) (pleading must show plausible entitlement to relief)