IP-2024-000057 - [2025] EWHC 1687 (IPEC)

This action concerns European Patent No. 2 578 197 B1 (‘the Patent’) which claims a hoist for loading and unloading an item into and out of the load-carrying space of a vehicle, typically the boot of a car. For the most part the Patent is concerned with a device for loading and unloading a disabled person’s wheelchair or scooter.

The Patent is owned by the defendant (‘Autochair’). The claimant (‘JGL’) seeks a declaration of non-infringement of the Patent in respect of its ‘Apex Assist’ hoist. Autochair has counterclaimed, seeking a finding of infringement. The validity of the Patent is not in issue.