Insider Media Limited

Wragge & Co's Birmingham-based intellectual property (IP) team has secured what it calls “a significant victory” for global design and engineering business Dyson in a high-profile design rights case. The law firm represented Dyson, which brought the case against China-based manufacturer Yongkang Yixuan for design infringement relating to its Air Multiplier fan.

The Air Multiplier fan, which was launched in 2009 uses a new technology to create a smooth flow of air without the use of conventional blades. The design attracted “widespread attention” in China, said Wragge & Co, and more than 20 potential design infringements are now under review.

Dyson’s case against Yongkang Yixuan was the first trial to reach court. The decision went in favour of Dyson, with a finding of infringement and the award of an injunction and “significant damages”.

Head of intellectual property, Gordon Harris, acted for Dyson. Dr Jian Xu, who heads up the IP team's China office in Guangzhou, also advised and ran the case in China. The wider team included solicitors Andrew Maggs and Antony Craggs, supported by junior lawyer Edith Ruan.

The Wragge & Co team worked closely with Gill Smith, director of intellectual property at Dyson and in-house patent attorney Nerys Hucker. Local Chinese counsel advised Yongkang Yixuan.

Gordon Harris said: "Protecting design rights across multiple territories remains a challenging issue. Dyson has been quick to identify potential problems and seek expert advice.

"The outcome sends out a strong message about the Dyson brand and marks a further success for Wragge & Co's growing Guangzhou office."