3B Scientific Wins Copyright Infringement Suit Against Chinese Manufacturer (06-13-2007)

Atlanta, GA - June, 2007 - US and European manufacturers face tremendous pressure to be competitive on a global level. Competitors from China present a set of special challenges which must be confronted. The use of stolen property, technology and information as the basis for entry into the market has created an uneven playing field for certain businesses. Relatively cheap labor, language and distance barriers, and a complex legal system make protecting proprietary products and information difficult - but not impossible.

In November, 2005 suit was filed against a certain manufacturer in Shanghai for infringing on 3B Scientific® Product image copyrights. Specifically, those images of 3B Scientific® Products B53 and VA01 were being used illegally by the manufacturer in their catalogs, website and other advertising materials in order to deceive customers on the quality of their own products. In February, 2007, after a judicious comparison of the evidence presented the court ruled in favor of 3B Scientific. The Court awarded the following settlement, whose terms, as of April 2007 have been complied with. Under court order the manufacturer has: • Removed all photos of 3B Scientific products from their website • Destroyed all materials, aids and tools for the production of these photos • Issued a written apology for the copyright injuries with official confirmation of the court • Paid monetary damages to 3B Scientific

Fair competition is a healthy state of affairs for business. It spawns innovation, market driven products and pricing structures. 3B Scientific continues to respond to global challenges while protecting its assets and will pursue prosecution of infringement wherever it exists. Success can not be guaranteed each time but with a concerted effort to stop piracy the playing field can be leveled for all players. We do not want to promote the name of the manufacturer by publishing it in this platform, but you may contact the Managing Director of any 3B Scientific affiliate to obtain further details.

3B Scientific GmbH has affiliates in 12 countries on 4 continents making it the world’s largest and most experienced manufacturer of anatomical teaching aids. The full product range includes medical simulators, physical therapy equipment, biological and physical science apparatus for education. ISO 9001:200 certified since 2000, 3B Scientific is committed to quality products, services and management.

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