Irvine-based IntraLase Corp. said Thursday it filed a lawsuit against rival Carl Zeiss AG of Germany for allegedly breaching a contract that exposed Carl Zeiss to IntraLase patent’s and other business information.
IntraLase, a maker of lasers for eye surgery, charges that Carl Zeiss “wrongfully induced” it to disclose confidential business information.
The suit seeks damages for breach of contract and payment to IntraLase of all revenue and profits derived by Zeiss from the sale and use of its laser.
“We believe the marketplace rather than the courthouse is the appropriate arena for honest and spirited competition,” Robert Palmisano, IntraLase’s chief executive, said. “However, we have a duty to protect our intellectual capital and feel we have no alternative but to take the necessary legal action to protect our interests and ensure that any competition we face is fair competition.”
