WHIRLPOOL sues to block Samsung and LG microwave imports in patent dispute

Whirlpool on Tuesday requested U.S. trade authorities to block the import and sale of microwaves produced by competitors such as South Korea, claiming that these microwaves have copied Whirlpool's patented technology. Whirlpool filed a complaint with the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC), headquartered in Washington, aiming to protect an important market for the company based in Benton Harbor, Michigan. Whirlpool stated that South Korean competitors Samsung and LG have infringed on its five patents for "low-profile microwave hood combination products" (LP-MHC). The complaint states: "Whirlpool created the LP-MHC product category and was the sole supplier of LP-MHC in the U.S. before the proposed defendants began their illegal activities."