Certain Powered Rocker-Recliner and Glider-Recliner Mechanisms and Seating Units Containing Same; Inv. No. 337-TA-1524

The ITC instituted Investigation No. 337-TA-1524 based on a complaint by Ultra-Mek, Incorporated, Leggett & Platt, Incorporated, and L&P Property Management Company alleging infringement of four patents by imported powered rocker-recliner and glider-recliner mechanisms and seating units containing them. The named respondents include Jiangsu Carya, Living Style entities, True Innovations & Design (USA), Henglin/Hengning/Hengjian entities, Colamy, Aurora Maison, and Aerisnexus. The investigation targets powered motion furniture mechanisms used in recliners and finished seating products, a high-volume consumer furniture category with substantial import exposure. A limited exclusion order and cease-and-desist orders could disrupt supply chains for imported recliner mechanisms and seating units and affect retailers, furniture brands, and component suppliers relying on accused powered reclining systems. The asserted patents are U.S. Patent Nos. 8,398,165, 8,398,168, 8,016,348, and 8,297,693, with specified claims asserted from each patent. The scope of the investigation is defined as powered glider-recliner mechanisms, powered rocker-recliner mechanisms, and finished seating units incorporating those mechanisms. Complainants seek a limited exclusion order and cease-and-desist orders against multiple foreign and domestic respondents. The Office of Unfair Import Investigations will not participate as a party. The Commission specifically flagged the need for a thorough domestic industry record, including expenditures by third parties and expenditures outside the United States relating to domestic industry articles.