The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) has voted to institute an investigation of certain connecting devices for modular compressed air conditioning units and the FRL units they connect. The products at issue in this investigation are connectors with a pivotal clamp (a "quick clamp") that connect fluid-flow units such as regulators, filters and the like, used in compressed air conditioning systems (pneumatic systems); along with the fluid-flow units ("FRL's") that are connected by the pivotal clamp connector.

The investigation is based on a complaint filed by Norgren, Inc., of Littleton, CO, on October 6, 2006. The complaint alleges violations of section 337 of the Tariff Act of 1930 in the importation into the United States of certain devices for modular compressed air conditioning units and the FRL units they connect that infringe a patent owned by Norgren. The complainant requests that the ITC issue a permanent exclusion order and permanent cease and desist orders.

The ITC has identified the following as respondents in this investigation:

SMC Corporation of Japan;
SMC Corporation of Indianapolis, IN;
AIRTAC of China; and
MFD Pneumatics of Chicago, IL.

By instituting this investigation (337-TA-587), the ITC has not yet made any decision on the merits of the case. The case will be referred to the Honorable Sidney Harris, an ITC administrative law judge, who will schedule and hold an evidentiary hearing. Judge Harris will make an initial determination as to whether there is a violation of section 337; that initial determination is subject to review by the Commission.

The ITC will make a final determination in the investigation at the earliest practicable time. Within 45 days after institution of the investigation, the ITC will set a target date for completing the investigation. ITC remedial orders in section 337 cases are effective when issued and become final 60 days after issuance unless disapproved for policy reasons by the U.S. Trade Representative within that 60-day period.