Sony Corporation and 3M have reached a global settlement regarding
a lithium ion battery cathode patent dispute filed in March 2007
against Sony and other companies in the Minnesota District Court and
United States International Trade Commission. Under the settlement,
Sony Corporation and Sony Electronics Inc. are now licensed sources of
batteries containing 3M's cathode technology. The specific terms of
the settlement are confidential.
3M believes its cathode materials containing nickel, manganese and
cobalt are an important technology for current and next generation
lithium ion batteries. 3M stands ready to supply cathode materials to
the industry. Over the past decade, 3M has invested significant
resources in design, development and commercialization of advanced
material technologies for lithium ion battery applications. 3M's
expertise and broad materials capabilities in cathodes, metal alloy
anodes, electrolyte salts, solvents, and additives can enable the next
generation of high-performance lithium ion batteries.
Lithium ion batteries are a preferred source of power for laptop
computers, mobile phones and portable electronic devices, and are an
emerging source of power for battery-powered hand tools. In addition,
3M sees a promising future for its lithium-ion technology in transport
applications such as hybrid electric vehicles.
About 3M - A Global, Diversified Technology Company
Every day, 3M people find new ways to make amazing things happen.
Wherever they are, whatever they do, the company's customers know they
can rely on 3M to help make their lives better. 3M's brands include
Scotch, Post-it, Scotchgard, Thinsulate, Scotch-Brite, Filtrete,
Command and Vikuiti. Serving customers around the world, the people of
3M use their expertise, technologies and global strength to lead in
major markets including consumer and office; display and graphics;
electronics and telecommunications; safety, security and protection
services; health care; industrial and transportation. For more
information, including the latest product and technology news, visit
www.3M.com.
Scotch, Post-it, Scotchgard, Thinsulate, Scotch-Brite, Filtrete,
Command and Vikuiti are trademarks of 3M.