WASHINGTON – The U.S. International Trade Commission has voted to investigate at least 30 electronics companies for allegedly infringing patents covering certain short-wavelength LEDs, laser diodes and products that contain them.

Among the companies cited by the ITC are Nokia, Motorola, Sony, Hitachi and Toshiba.

In a statement, the ITC said the investigation would cover short-wavelength (e.g., blue, violet) LEDs and laser diodes used in products such as handheld mobile devices, instrument panels, billboards, traffic lights, HD DVD players and data storage devices.

The investigation is based on a complaint filed by Gertrude Neumark Rothschild of Hartsdale, NY, on Feb. 20. The complaint alleges companies are importing into the U.S. LEDs and laser diodes that infringe on Rothschild’s patent in violation of section 337 of the Tariff Act of 1930. Rothschild is a retired professor at Columbia University.

The complainant requests the ITC issue exclusion orders and cease and desist orders.

Among the companies the ITC identified as respondents:

Avago Technologies;

Bacol Optoelectonic Co.;

Dominant Semiconductors;

Everlight Electronics Co.;

Exceed Perseverance Electronic Ind. Co.;

Guangzhou Hongli Opto-Electronic Co.;

Harvatek Internaional Inc.;

Hitachi Ltd.;

Kingbright Electronic Co.;

LG Electronics;

Lite-On Technology Corp.;

Lucky Light Electronics Co.;

Matsushita Electric Industrial Co.;

Motorola Inc.;

Nokia;

Opto Tech Corp.;

Pioneer Corp.;

Rohm Co.;

Samsung Group;

Sanyo Electric;

Seoul Semiconductor;

Sharp Corp.;

Shenzhen Unilight Electronic Co.;

Shinano Kenshi Co.;

Sony;

Sony Ericsson;

Stanley Electric Co.;

Toshiba Corp.;

Vishay Intertechnology; and

Yellow Stone Corp.

The ITC has not yet made any decision on the merits of the case. An evidentiary hearing will be scheduled, at which time an initial determination will be made as to whether there is a violation of section.

Within 45 days after the investigation is launched, the ITC will set a target date its completion.