Stuff.co.nz. By Todd Niall.
A Brazilian naval architect and boat builder claims to hold patents covering the canting foil system used in the America’s Cup AC75 boats.
Manoel Chaves has engaged representatives in New Zealand who have given Team New Zealand until Friday to respond to the claims of possible patent infringement.
The team said it had responded to Chaves in July this year, and there were no grounds for his claim.
“The design of the AC75 foil cant system has not been copied or inspired by Mr Chaves' design in any way, nor does it infringe any patent,” Team New Zealand said in a statement.
“As we have explained to Mr Chaves, his patent requires features not found in the AC75 yacht,” said the team. “Every good idea has 1000 fathers.”
The Auckland firm representing Chaves said it was not clear yet who held the legal responsibility for the AC75 design.
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