The MIU Automation Corp unit of MIU INdustries Ltd of Toronto is suing IBM for allegedly infringing a patent used in MIU’s Intra-Lock personal computer security product. The Canadian company, which filed the suit in Los Angeles, says that it gave IBM extensive technical information on the system when a joint marketing agreement was being discussed, but that IBM suddenly stopped talking last September and has since independently announced a rival product allegedly using MIU’s technology. It is seeking a preliminary injunction against IBM marketing or shipping its product, and also wants unspecified damages. It reckons that sales of the product during the 17-year life of the patent could go as high as $40,000m.
