UPC: Functional Claim Construction of Fiber Components in Laser Applications

In this detailed decision, the Local Chamber Mannheim deals with the functional interpretation of apparatus features and their relevance to patent infringement. The interpretation of patent claims is carried out functionally and from the perspective of the person skilled in the art, taking into account the overall technical teaching. Terms such as "input fiber" are not limited to actually connected components but encompass all elements that can be technically reasonably used for the claimed function. Conversely, elements that are structurally present but play no functional role in guiding the light according to the patent are not to be considered as claim-relevant features. For the assessment of infringement, the decisive factor is whether the attacked embodiment implements the technical teaching in its functional effect. In particular, the targeted allocation of light from different input fibers to different regions of the output fiber to generate variable beam profiles is key. Minor geometric deviations, such as in diameters in the micrometer range, do not preclude the realization of a feature, provided that the technical function – in particular the coupling of the predominant part of the laser light – is maintained. (LC Mannheim 24. 2. 2026, CFI 735/2024, CFI 224/2025)