In this study, we examine the nature of LED-related litigated and non-litigated patents, and explore the main drivers of patent lawsuits. The results indicate that litigated LED patents are of significantly higher scientific quality compared to non- litigated ones. From our analysis we obtained three results. First, patent litigations in the LED sector are the result of innovation-related factors. Second, even though the quality of defended patents is high, two leading plaintiffs are non-practicing entities. Third, litigations are in general between incumbent firms. We discuss these results with respect to the studies related to patent litigations and their effects on innovation in general and eco-innovation in particular.

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