More Time Needed to Respond to Sharp’s Patent Allegations, Vizio, Suppliers Tell ITC

Vizio and its suppliers TPV and Xianyang CaiHong Optoelectronics asked the International Trade Commission Tuesday for a two-week deadline extension to June 30 to respond to Sharp's allegations that their TVs and components infringe five LCD display patents (see 2005210041), said a motion (login required) posted in docket 337-TA-1201. The companies need more time to “fully investigate the allegations” in Sharp's April 21 complaint and “explore and develop potential defenses,” said the motion, which Sharp didn’t oppose. “The COVID-19 pandemic has also introduced additional challenges in coordinating responses and collecting relevant responsive information.” Administrative Law Judge Dee Lord approved the motion Wednesday afternoon.