Baltimore-based 180s has filed a federal lawsuit in Maryland against Gordini U.S.A., Inc. (“Gordini”) for infringement of two of 180s many patents related to wrap-behind-the-head ear warmer products.
180s introduced its behind-the-head ear warmers in 1995 to eliminate the discomfort and inconvenience of conventional hats, bands and ear muffs. Their patented design enables the ear warmer products to fold and collapse for compact storage.
180s currently has more than 80 patents and patents pending in the United States and abroad, including 14 issued patents in the United States relating to ear warmers.
The suit charges Gordini with infringement of United States Patent No. 6,978,483 and United States Design Patent No. D545,001. The suit also includes claims of trade dress infringement and unfair competition.
The suit asks the court for both unspecified damages for the infringing activities and for an injunction to force Gordini to cease all future infringing activities.
“Intellectual property continues to be an important and integral part of our business,” said Susan F. Shafton, CEO for 180s. “180s will continue to aggressively enforce its rights to protect its innovative technologies and its research and development efforts to develop products that satisfy the needs of our customers.”
Since the companys inception in 1994, 180s has filed and won lawsuits against other companies for patent infringement on 180s innovative products. Several of these lawsuits have involved different ear warmer related patents in 180s patent portfolio.
