A patent dispute is underway in the Eastern District of New York, where a Florida-based company has accused a New York firm of infringing on its patent.
On December 6, 2024, SQIP, LLC filed a complaint against Ultra Stones, LLC, alleging willful infringement of its U.S. Patent No. 10,376,912. The case centers on alleged unauthorized activities involving Ultra Stones' products that violate SQIP’s patented methods for manufacturing engineered quartz surfaces.
SQIP, LLC, based in Orlando, Florida, claims ownership of a significant portfolio of patents related to engineered natural quartz surface products used in various building applications, including countertops.
The ‘912 Patent specifically covers an innovative method for depositing color into cracks of moving-formed quartz slabs to create veins in engineered stone. Alex Xie, the sole inventor and member of SQIP, is credited with the innovation and holds extensive experience in the industry.
According to the complaint, Ultra Stones has been manufacturing and selling products under names such as "Waterlily," "Venato Ultra," "Afina," "Calacatta Valence," and "Zermat," which infringe upon the patent.
The legal filing details how Ultra Stones was made aware of the alleged infringement as early as January 30, 2023. Despite receiving notification from SQIP’s counsel through letters dated January 30 and February 7, 2023—neither of which received a response—Ultra Stones continued its allegedly infringing activities.
The plaintiff accuses Ultra Stones not only of violating patent laws under sections 35 U.S.C. § 271(a) and § 271(g), but also alleges willful infringement due to the defendant's continued disregard for SQIP’s intellectual property rights.
In its lawsuit, SQIP seeks several forms of relief, including a judgment confirming Ultra Stones' infringement, compensation for past and future damages under 35 U.S.C. § 284, ongoing royalties post-judgment, and a permanent injunction to prevent further violations.
Additionally, SQIP requests that the court declare the case exceptional under 35 U.S.C. § 285, enabling the company to recover attorneys' fees and other litigation costs due to what they describe as deliberate misconduct by Ultra Stones.
Representing SQIP is attorney Nicole L. Bohler of Long Tuminello LLP in Bay Shore, New York. The case is being heard under Case ID: 24-8401.