The action relates to IMDEX's core orientation patent and follows successful actions in the Federal Court of Australia in 2018 (against Globaltech Corporation which is majority-owned by Boart Longyear), and with the United States Patents and Trademarks Office in 2020, after a challenge by Boart Longyear.

IMDEX claims Boart Longyear's TruCore orientation system infringes various patents held by IMDEX subsidiaries in the US, Canada, and South Africa. The patents cover IMDEX's market-leading core orientation sensors, which allow customers to obtain high-quality data to ensure alignment of core samples.

In the US, IMDEX is seeking a ban on Boart Longyear importing its TruCore core orientation systems and renting them to US-based customers.

In Canada, IMDEX is seeking a ban on Boart Longyear importing, selling, or renting the same core orientation tools in that country.

In South Africa, IMDEX is seeking restraining orders to prevent Boart Longyear using, selling, or renting its TruCore orientation tools in that country, the destruction of the infringing tools and compensation for loss and damages.

IMDEX CEO Paul House said the legal action demonstrated the company's ongoing intent to protect its rights where infringements occur. "Our company continually invests in research and development to provide cutting edge technologies and additional value for our global customers. Our IP portfolio helps protect that investment.

"We have a successful history of upholding our intellectual property rights."

Boart Longyear remains a highly valued customer of IMDEX, and the two companies have historically been able to maintain a separation between legal matters and their operational relationship.

Got a story? Email: duncan.moore@aspermontmedia.com