Court Upholds Patent for Panelized Tarpaulin Systems

DETROIT--In a collaborative action between Sundance and Aero, The Federal District Court of the Eastern District of Michigan has affirmed the validity of Sundance, Inc.’s U.S. Pat.5,026,109 for panelized tarpaulin systems used on trucks and trailers.

The jury found DeMonte Fabricating Ltd. and Quick Draw Tarpaulin Systems Inc. infringed the patent with continued sales of the Quick Draw retractable, segmented, tarpaulin panels in the United States.

Sundance, Inc. is the patent owner for panelized, retractable, tarpaulin truck and trailer systems licensed to Merlot Tarpaulin and Sidekit Mfg. under the brand name Vango. Aero Industries, Inc. manufactures and sells under the brand name Conestoga.