Complaint Alleges Chinese Manufacturer JSG Infringes Patented Seed-Lifting Technology Developed by Linton Engineers in Rochester, New York

Linton Crystal Technologies Corp. (Linton), a world leader in the design, development, and manufacture of Czochralski (CZ) crystal growth equipment, filed a civil complaint alleging patent infringement against Zhejiang Jingsheng Mechanical & Electrical Co., Ltd. (JSG) in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas. The complaint was filed on September 22 and alleges that certain JSG CZ crystal-growth pullers infringe two U.S. patents covering innovative seed-lifting technology developed by Linton’s engineers.

The lawsuit asserts claims for infringement by JSG of U.S. Patent Nos. 11,255,024 and 11,814,746, both titled “Seed Lifting and Rotating System for Use in Crystal Growth” and invented by John A. Reese and Joel C. Stefl. The patents protect Linton’s proprietary seed-lifting technologies that improve the lifting and rotation of seeds during the CZ crystal growth process, a critical step in producing monocrystalline silicon ingots used in semiconductor and photovoltaic manufacturing.

This technology was developed by Linton’s engineering team at its headquarters in Rochester, New York, and represents a significant advancement in CZ crystal growth equipment. The seed-lifting mechanism reduces the size, weight, and complexity of conventional systems while improving performance, innovations that are essential to the competitiveness of American manufacturing in the semiconductor and solar industries.

“Linton’s engineers have invested decades of effort to develop industry-leading crystal growth technology right here in Rochester, New York,” said Todd Barnum, Executive Board Member of Linton Crystal Technologies. “Protecting our intellectual property is essential, not only for Linton, but for the broader effort to strengthen American manufacturing and innovation in the semiconductor and solar industries. We will vigorously defend our patents and the ingenuity of our team.”

About the Lawsuit

The complaint was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas, Marshall Division. Linton is seeking a declaration of patent infringement, damages (including enhanced damages), permanent injunctive relief, and attorneys’ fees. A jury trial has been demanded. Linton is represented by Nixon Peabody LLP.

About Linton Crystal Technologies

Linton Crystal Technologies Corp., headquartered in Rochester, New York, is a world leader in the design, development, and manufacture of equipment for producing monocrystalline silicon ingots. With roots tracing back to 1952 and a legacy built on the Kayex brand, Linton provides CZ crystal growers, diamond wire saws, polishing equipment, and turnkey factory solutions for the semiconductor and photovoltaic industries. Linton continues to invest in American manufacturing and is a strong advocate for the reshoring of production to the United States. For more information, visit www.lintoncrystal.com.

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