Applied Materials Releases Statement Regarding its SunFab(TM) Thin Film Solar Technology
Applied Materials Releases Statement Regarding its SunFab(TM) Thin Film Solar Technology
Jun 23, 2008 at 4:38 PM EDT
SANTA CLARA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 23, 2008--Applied Materials, Inc. today released the following statement regarding its thin film solar technology:
Applied Materials believes that its SunFab thin film solar tandem
junction technology does not infringe European Patent No. EP 0
871 979 issued to the University of Neuchatel (the Neuchatel
patent). Applied Materials' unique and proprietary
manufacturing process and tandem junction cell structure are the
result of substantial research and development. The SunFab line
is the only integrated production line for manufacturing thin
film solar modules using ultra-large 5.7 m2 glass panels.
Applied Materials' belief of non-infringement is based in part on
differences between the SunFab tandem junction technology (as
verified by scientific analyses such as Raman spectroscopy and
transmission electron microscopy) and the claims of the
Neuchatel patent.
In addition, the Neuchatel patent is already the subject of four
separate opposition proceedings in the European Patent Office
challenging its validity, based on prior art that was not
disclosed or considered during the European patent examination
process.
Applied Materials, Inc. (Nasdaq:AMAT) is the global leader in Nanomanufacturing Technology(TM) solutions with a broad portfolio of innovative equipment, services and software products for the fabrication of semiconductor chips, flat panels, solar photovoltaic cells, flexible electronics and energy efficient glass. At Applied Materials, we apply Nanomanufacturing Technology to improve the way people live. Learn more at www.appliedmaterials.com.
CONTACT: Applied Materials, Inc.David Miller, 408-563-9582 (business media)
Linda Heller, 408-986-7977 (financial community)
SOURCE: Applied Materials, Inc.