Manitowoc Alleges Infringement, Requests Import Ban Against Sany's Crawler Cranes

Manitowoc Cranes filed a complaint June 12 alleging violations of Section 337 imports of Sany’s crawler cranes that infringe its patents and trade secrets. The “variable position counterweight” technology at issue allows the cranes to lift over 2,500 pounds, which lends them to applications like power plant construction where large loads need to be lifted. According to Manitowoc, Sany hired away one of its high-level engineers, who proceeded to share his knowledge with the Chinese company. Manitowoc is requesting the ITC issue limited exclusion and cease and desist orders against Sany’s import and sale of infringing crawler cranes.