Stanmore Implants agreed to exit robotics entirely in order to settle patent infringement complaints filed by Mako Surgical (NSDQ:MAKO) over robotic surgery technology
The rival device makers closed the books on a patent battle over Stanmore’s Sculptor robotic guidance arm, with Stanmore handing the technology over to Mako in exchange for an undisclosed cash payment. Mako in turn agreed to drop its complaints against Stanmore, according to a statement, and the companies may partner on projects in the future.
"Stanmore is pleased to have reached closure in this matter," president & CEO Michael Mainelli, Jr., said in prepared remarks."
Mako last month filed lawsuits with courts in California and Massachusetts as well as a complaint with the U.S. International Trade Commission, claiming that Stanmore’s Sculptor robotic guidance arm infringed on 3 haptic guidance system patents.
Stanmore agreed to hand its robotic business assets and intellectual property, including the Sculptor technology, over to Mako in exchange for a cash settlement and a withdrawal of all legal actions. Stanmore further agreed to withdraw from robotics, according to a press release.
"This agreement both affirms and improves Mako’s intellectual property position in robotically assisted orthopedic surgery," Mako president & CEO Dr. Maurice Ferré said in prepared remarks. "Moreover, we are enthused about the possibility of partnering with Stanmore on potential future projects."