A court in Spain ruled in 3M's favor this week when it ordered a preliminary injunction against a company 3M accused of violating its patented "PPS technology."
The proprietary technology allows auto repair firms to efficiently mix and spray coatings onto vehicles.
The injunction against BossAuto Innova S.A. was issued by the Commercial Court of Barcelona and applies to all processes and work surrounding a European patent for 3M's paint technology. The court ruling prohibits BossAuto from manufacturing, importing, exporting or promoting its "BossAuto Paint System" in Spain. The preliminary ruling, which also prohibits the sale of the paint system's component parts, is effective immediately, court records said.
BossAuto may appeal the injunction with the Court of Appeal of Barcelona. Meanwhile, 3M's full patent infringement lawsuit is expected to proceed through the courts until a final decision is made about the validity of 3M's claim.
While preliminary, the legal ruling is hailed as a major win for 3M. The Maplewood-based maker of Scotch tape, Post-it notes, respirators and earplugs has enjoyed steady revenue growth in its aftermarket automotive-products division in recent years.
3M has become the go-to company for collision repair supplies that fill or grind out auto dents and cracks. It is also well known for protective film coatings and graphics applied to auto exteriors.
"3M is committed to protecting its intellectual property and investments in paint spraying technologies," the company said in a statement on Thursday.
"3M's Automotive Aftermarket Division provides a comprehensive range of products and solutions to the collision repair industry, including its award-winning PPS technology that enables painters to mix less paint, reduce the amount of solvent used and speed cleanup."
