Heraeus Noblelight Ltd. wins in court: Successful outcome in patent infringement lawsuit against First Light Lamps Ltd.

Cambridge UK, 31st July 2023

Photonic Solutions company Heraeus Noblelight Ltd. has won a major patent infringement lawsuit in the UK’s High Court with the judge, Mr Justice Zacaroli, finding the Heraeus Patent EP (UK) 1 598 845 to have been infringed by First Light Lamps Limited. The Judge also rejected First Light's claim that the Patent is invalid, following a lengthy intellectual property rights dispute.

The Heraeus Patent describes Heraeus' pioneering methods for sealing the ends of quartz glass arc lamps. Heraeus commenced proceedings alleging infringement of the Patent in September 2021 and a two-week trial took place in June 2023. Following judgment in favour of Heraeus, the court will now be asked to determine the damages and legal costs payable, as well as the scope of injunctive relief.

 A link to the full judgment can be accessed here.

Heraeus Noblelight Ltd. wins in court
Managing Director Debbie Playle holding the judgement documents.

Debbie Playle, Managing Director of Heraeus Noblelight Ltd., expressed her delight at the ruling. “This case highlights the importance of protecting people's hard work and dedication to improving our products, ensuring we retain our competitive edge. We are confident that this ruling sends a strong message and solidifies our position as a technology leader”. Ms Playle went on to thank the team at Heraeus Noblelight, and their legal representatives for the hard work to get to this just outcome.

Heraeus Noblelight Ltd. will continue to drive innovation and is committed to fair competition. In response to increased market demands Heraeus Noblelight Ltd. recently announced expansion plans and is moving to a bespoke facility in Northstowe just outside Cambridge in 2024.