Otto Bock HealthCare GmbH, Duderstadt, Germany, Otto Bock HealthCare LLP, Minneapolis, Minnesota, and Ohio Willow Wood, Mt. Sterling, Ohio, announced that they have signed an agreement, effective December 1, 2008, that allows limited sharing of intellectual property related to liner and vacuum technologies. The arrangement permits both organizations to continue investing in manufacturing, research, and development in the field of socket technology.
"Protecting our advanced technology while providing invaluable function to the market is a wonderful result to our negotiations," said Helmut Pfuhl, Otto Bock's chief marketing officer. "Vacuum technology and high-tech liners are invaluable tools for helping patients experience the highest possible quality of life."
Robert E. Arbogast, president of Ohio Willow Wood, said, "I am pleased to be able to reach an agreement that protects our patents and our product line. Ultimately, we are confident that our customers and their patients will benefit from our friendly resolution."
Bert Harman, Otto Bock North America's president and CEO, added, "Otto Bock is passionate about moving technology forward, and this agreement strengthens the position of both companies. Combined, we have nearly 200 years of O&P history between us, and I respect the rich tradition of innovation that has benefited the industry."
