ITC to investigate windshield wiper imports

   The U.S. International Trade Commission voted to investigate imports of certain windshield wipers — “flat blades” or “beam blades,” as referred to by the automotive industry — and related components.
   The investigation is based on a complaint filed by Trico Products Corp. of Rochester Hills, Mich., on Oct. 21. The complaint alleges patent violations under section 337 of the 1930 Tariff Act in the import and sale of certain windshield wipers and components in the United States. The companies identified for investigation are Federal-Mogul Corp. of Southfield, Mich., and Federal Mogul S.A. of Aubange, Belgium.
   The ITC chief administrative law judge will now assign the case to one of the agency’s administrative law judges, who will schedule and hold an evidentiary hearing. Afterwards, the judge will make an initial determination as to whether there is a section 337 violation; that initial determination is then subject to review by the ITC commissioners.