Patent issue

[okkyn]

While browsing the internet, I found "digital power amplifier" european patent application document (submitted 27.08.2003). It mentions Kenji Yokoyama from Flying Mole corp. as an inventor of digital power amplifier, I assume it is class D amplifier.

Since the patent is quite new, I assume all commercial class D amps design nowdays must pay royalty to the patent holder, or CMIIW. Now come to the issue. If I use one chip solution for the class D design, do I have to worry about intelectual property right, or the manufacturer of this particular chip has already paid all the royalty? 😕

Thanks

 

[jcx]

the general practice is for the inventor to license the technology to chip manufacturer, the chip producer pays the royalties and the customers of the chip manufacturer have an implied license to use the chip without further fees

 

[okkyn]

the general practice is for the inventor to license the technology to chip manufacturer, the chip producer pays the royalties and the customers of the chip manufacturer have an implied license to use the chip without further fees

Thanks jcx.

So, even if I make a commercial products using those chips, I don't have to worry about royalties or licence?

 

[Sherman]

Yes you can make a commercial product based on the chips and not be liable for any royalties or fees. You aren't making something based on the patented technology, the chip maker is. You are building a product based on a component where the license fee has already been paid.