Swedish handset manufacturer, Neonode says that the Japanese Patent and Trademark Office has approved the issuance of a patent for its optical touch screen technology, zForce.
"Several of the world's leading consumer electronics manufacturers are based in Japan. Not only are they often first to market with innovative mobile products but Japanese consumers spend the highest amount per capita on consumer electronics of any nation in the world," said Mikael Hagman, President & CEO. "We expect to fully capitalize on the opportunity to license zForce in this market."
zForce was initially patented in 2002. Currently Neonode has a range of patents and patents pending globally, all centered on the finger-based input touch screen technology. zForce is based on infrared LEDs and photodiodes that work in sunlight and enable navigation by finger movements and sweeping motions -- no stylus, keys or hard pressure needed.
The zForce technology presents a significant licensing opportunity for Neonode as it may be licensed to third-party companies for incorporation into touch screen products. zForce is also used in the company's touch screen mobile phone, Neonode N2.
"As a strategic step in line with our dual business model; the combination of technology licensing and branded product sales, we have recently recruited Chief Patent Engineer Joseph Shain to ensure the further protection of our proprietary technology," Hagman continued.
Posted to the site on 24th April 2008
Posted to: www.cellular-news.com/story/30756.php