Tanegashima
Space Center
Lift-off in 30 seconds.
28 27 26 25 24...
The moment of truth has finally arrived, huh?
6 5 4 3 2 1
Main engine start. Ignite SRBs.
All right. Go, Seiren!
Initial azimuth angle 99°.
Heading southeast 15km over Pacific Ocean. Altitude 17km.
Engine combustion chamber pressure stable at 11.2 megapascal.
Good girl.
Engine thrust level normal.
Abnormality noted, abnormality noted!
Engine combustion chamber pressure decreasing to 10.1 megapascal.
Abnormality warning signal!
Engine thrust declining. Off the scheduled track. Approaching deadline soon.
Sensei!
Anticipated vertex altitude is approximately 70 km. Security problem noted.
There's difficulty with ignition of stage 2.
Emergency shutdown!
- Sensei, Sensei. Please wait! - Maintenance command on!
Someone has to be held accountable.
You're the one who developed that engine.
That's how it is.
Resignation
Are you really okay with this?
I told you several times already. It's not like I'm running away.
Someone has to take over Dad's company.
I'm being positive.
Don't worry.
I'll take care of you and Rina just like before.
7 years later
- Change in policy? - That's right.
The president's plan is to go with our own production in the future.
We'd like to terminate our business for your engine at the end of next month.
Wait a minute. You say end of next month, but
President of Tsukuda Manufacturing Tsukuda Kohei
it's already past the 20th this month.
To be suddenly told you're terminating business with us,
there's the issue of our production line
as well as personnel issues.
- Can't you give us a break? - That's your problem, isn't it?
President Tsukuda, we have our plans too.
But still, this is all too sudden.
Keihin Machinery HQ
The precision parts we provide to your company amount to no less than 1 billion yen a year.
Contrary to terminating business, you were even talking about increasing orders.
You're absolutely right.
- I'm sorry. - Sorry isn't what I want to hear...
I'm sorry but
Keihin Machinery Procurement Dept. Chief Tokuda
the decision's been made.
There's nothing I can do about it anymore.
- We're going to be in a deficit. - As expected.
Losing our business with Keihin Machinery means
a loss in sales of 1 billion yen, even by rough estimate.
Tsukuda Machinery
Tsun-san, wasn't there any indication before this happened?
Being that they're our biggest customer,
Sales Promotion Dept. #1 Chief, Tsuno Kaoru
I made sure I dropped by every week and I thought I was nurturing a good relationship with them, but
Sales Promotion Dept. #2 Chief Karakida Atsushi
I never thought they would terminate business with us so suddenly like this.
Technology Development Dept. Chief, Yamazaki Mitsuhiko
Is anything allowed if you're a big company?
President, I hate to bring it up at a time like this, but you'll have to do something about the financing too.
Are you talking about a loan? How much will we need?
At the very least, 300 million (approx. $2.5 million).
That much?!
- Do you think the bank will lend it to us? - It will be an uphill battle.
We have a pretty big loan already, and
if we go in a deficit, it will be even more difficult.
Expenditure for research and development is growing too.
- Research takes money. - I guess so.
But thanks to that, we were able to get a number of engine-related patents.
If we commercialize those, it would lead to increased sales.
- Can't you persuade the bank? - Do they have a potential to be commercialized?
Specifically, not yet.
What the bank is worried about
On loan from Hakusui Bank, Accounting Dept. Chief, Tonomura Naohiro
is that the patents we invested so heavily into
would turn into unused patents with absolutely no practical use.
Are you trying to say that our patents are meaningless?
Unused patents...worthless patents with no practical use
No, not me, but it's what the bank might think.
Tonomura-san, we're an R&D type of company.
Technology and know-how we accrue are direct results of our R&D.
If we lose that,
I think we'll rapidly lose our ability to compete along with our competitive edge.
I see.
Won't you try to understand?
I'll go prepare the loan application right away. If you'll excuse me.
What is it? If you have something on your mind, say it.
I wonder if he's really thinking about us.
All he ever worries about is money.
He's probably hoping to go back to the bank eventually, don't you think?
Tsukuda Kohei quit the Space Science Development Agency and
succeeded the family business, Tsukuda Manufacturing, when his father passed away
7 years ago.
It was immediately after the rocket launch ended in failure.
Tsukuda Manufacturing, founded in 1964
and located in Ohta-ku, Tokyo,
is a mid-sized company which manufactures precision mechanical equipment.
This company, whose main business previously was electrical parts,
came to take on engines and peripherals that required extreme precision
after Tsukuda took over as president,
and their sales grew threefold.
Even then, it's still a mid-size business with annual sales of less than 10 billion yen (approx $83 million).
However, it owed its reputation that its technology and know-how pertaining to engines
are superior even to those of major firms
largely to Tsukuda's achievements when he was involved in
the design and production of rocket engines.
However, that R&D was not something that could be achieved overnight, and
required an enormous amount of capital.
Difficulty in securing loans, defection of client companies,
downsizing, internal harmony...
Now, what Tsukuda was faced with were countless problems,
not as a researcher, but as a company executive.
I'm sad.
He says you guys are useless patents.
I know you guys will be useful.
You're gonna do the world good, right?
First of all, you've borrowed too much money.
Moreover, if that money
is being pumped into some vague unknown thing...
- Are you talking about our R&D expense? - I'm sure you have your own thoughts, but
I can't possibly believe that your research is tied in to your company's sales.
But it is tied in. The fact that we give high priority to R&D
- is highly regarded by our clients. - Do you really think so?
What is it that you're developing,
Hakusui Bank Loan Department Chief Yanai Tetsuji
- by investing a huge amount of capital like that? - That's...
engine-related parts, and we also own several patents.
You say engine-related parts, but
they're rocket engine's something or other, or hydro something system.
They're all things that don't have practical use.
Especially rocket-related parts. What are you going to do with them after you develop them?
Patented goods that don't reap profit are nothing but junk.
I'm sorry, but Tsukuda-san,
not a single person at this bank has high regard for your company's technology development skills.
Then what should we do?
I don't recommend spending any more money on R&D.
If you're a former banker too, you understand what I'm saying, right?
Are you telling us to stop our research and development?
We're not trying to force you, mind you.
But you know, Tsukuda-san, wouldn't it be better for
a small business to act like small business and set your sight on immediate profit?
But calling the things we made "junk" is going too far.
Don't you think so?
Listen, Tonomura-san!
Yes?
Never mind.
President, why don't you give R&D a break for a while?
Since no one from the company will say it, I will.
The profit that we worked so hard to gain is being gobbled up for research.
There's a lot of employees in the company who think so.
Even if you don't completely stop the R&D,
narrowing down the theme to more practical engines will lead to profit.
Then, I think the employees and the bank can be convinced.
Let's do that, President.
Thanks for telling me.
But I'm not going to stop doing research and development.
R&D is an absolute necessity for a developmental company like us.
Then at the very least, please stop the hydrogen engine related R&D!
You still can't forget the dream you had when you were a researcher, can you?
That's why you can't give up R&D.
But you're not a researcher anymore. You're a company president.
For now,
won't you give first priority to the company and the employees' livelihood?
After the United States' space shuttle program ended,
the privatization of space development advanced rapidly.
Now, companies from countries such as China, South Korea, India, and Vietnam
have announced their intention to participate in space development projects.
In order to win that race, Teikoku Heavy Industries, over the past 7 years,
have been working towards development of
a purely domestic rocket through in-house production of key technology.
The pride of Teikoku Heavy Industries - no, the national pride of Japan -
is riding on whether this Stardust Project succeeds or not.
Teikoku Heavy Industries, Space Development Division, Managing Director Zaizen Michio
The reason I had you all gather here today at this newly established rocket assembly plant
is not for an inauguration ceremony.
It's to make a renewed resolution.
And earlier,
the launch date of that new rocket was decided.
Teikoku Heavy Industries Space Development Division Chief, Tomiyama Keiji
October 15 of next year.
Exactly 1 year from today.
This date is set in stone.
1 year. We only have 1 year left.
From now on, we don't have a minute, a second to waste.
I need your help
to carry our dream
to the heights of space.
Teikoku Heavy Industries President Toma Hideki
I'm counting on you, Zaizen.
Yes, sir.
Remember, simply launching it isn't enough.
Teikoku Heavy Industries Aerospace Division, General Manager Mizuhara Shigeharu
In-house production of key technology.
We're going to launch it with our technology.
That's an absolute must.
I'm well aware of that.
If it can't get done, both you and me...
- Where's the President? - I think he's in his office.
President!
Our Stella engine got sued by Nakashima Industries for patent infringement!
Huh? What. Patent rights...
One, ten, hundred, thousand, 10 thousand, 100 thousand, million, 100 million...
9 billion?! (approx. $74 M)
What the hell is this?!
This is the story of a small factory in a working-class neighborhood who,
armed with their technology and pride,
crossed swords evenly with major corporations
over development of rocket engine parts,
and the challenges of the people who staked their dream on space.
- Those bastards from Maneshima! - Maneshima? (Mane means copy)
That's what Nakashima's called behind their back.
After they cleverly copy other companies' products,
they always turn around and sue the other party for patent infringement, and coerce compensation from them.
That's their standard operating procedure.
This time, they have their eye on our Stella engine, huh?
Ever since it went on the market 5 years ago,
Stella was their best-selling product that dominated 30 percent of their sales.
The suspension of sales of Stella this time
was a big crisis that could prove fatal for Tsukuda Manufacturing.
Could it be that the reason Keihin Machinery decided to stop doing business with us
was because they heard Nakashima was going to sue us?
Or it's also possible that Nakashima intentionally leaked the information.
So was this all Nakashima's doing from the start?
They've got to be kidding.
Compensation for damages in the amount of 9 billion yen.
Who's gonna take a lawsuit like this seriously!
President, please calm down.
Once we ignore the lawsuit, the case is lost!
Get in touch with Tanabe Sensei.
Hey, Yama. That guy in charge when Nakashima came to pick a fight with us.
That big guy like me. What was his name?
- Uh...Mita. It's Mita. - That's right.
Nakashima, Nakashima, Nakashima, Nakashima, Mita, Mita.
Mita. Here it is.
I'm not sure what you're talking about.
In regards to the specifications of the Stella engine, we even had a review meeting to discuss the issues
and we came to an agreement.
Agreement? With us?
You must've misunderstood.
We didn't offer any counterarguments because we weren't making any progress at the meeting.
Nakashima Industries, Business Planning Division Legal Group Manager Mita Kimiyasu
I wish you'd read between the lines.
What are you saying after all this time? Doesn't this go against conventional wisdom?
Regardless of what you think,
it's been decided to settle this matter in court.
Therefore, I have nothing more to say to you.
- Bullshit! - Just so you know,
- this call is being recorded. - So what?
In the future, if you would like to talk to someone about this matter,
please contact our attorney, not me.
Nakashima Industries, Legal Adviser Nakagawa Kyoichi
Ah, and I suggest you refrain from using such a threatening tone.
If you'll excuse me now.
At any rate, please get in touch with Tanabe Sensei first.
Seriously...I can't believe he called me directly.
Shows how unprofessional he is.
That's about all you can expect from a small factory that doesn't have any measure in place to counter lawsuits.
This is going to be an easy victory for us.
- Mita-san. - Ah, you're right.
I should know better.
Now then, if I were to explain it again using this model,
the turbo charger technology for this Stella engine utilizes the gas turbine technology
from the rocket engine that the President developed.
The patent in question this time
is this blade inside the turbine.
Nakashima simply changed the material and stole the design of the configuration as is...
Tsukuda Manufacturing Legal Adviser Tanabe Kaoru
That's enough. No matter how many times I hear it, it's all Greek to me.
Basically, the issue is the originality of the technology, right?
- Yes. - But the problem is
whether or not we can clearly prove that.
There are quite a few judges who have a weakness for large corporations.
What's that mean? If they're suckers for large corporations, does black become white?
That's not what I'm saying.
Nakashima filed the lawsuit because they thought they could win too.
This isn't such a simple problem.
If they sort out the issues properly, they'll find out we're right.
When these debates over technology get prolonged, there's not much we can do about it.
Sensei, do you have much experience with trials related to intellectual property like this?
Cases like this don't come up that often.
For the time being, I'm going to prepare a written response to say that
there is no truth to the charge of patent infringement.
Summarize the points to repudiate the statement of claim and e-mail it to me.
- That's what we were trying to tell you earlier... - Make it easy to understand, okay?
Is he going to make it?
Shall I go find an attorney who has experience with intellectual property related cases?
We can't do that. He's been our attorney since the time my dad was running the business.
All that's only relevant if we can fight the lawsuit.
We've got to get the loan first.
Tonomura-san.
Do you think we should tell the bank about this lawsuit?
Well...
if we don't tell the bank before they find out, we'll give them an unfavorable impression.
It's a relationship of mutual trust after all.
It's Hakusui.
Hello. This is Tsukuda.
Yes.
What?!
Currently, of the 120 key devices considered necessary to assemble a rocket,
Teikoku Heavy Industries Stardust Project Board Meeting
99 percent has been successfully produced in-house.
The only thing left is the device that's most crucial
to control the rocket, the valve system.
To explain it briefly,
within a state of vibration caused by engine combustion that's equivalent to an explosion,
a large flow of liquid fuel, consisting of liquid hydrogen at minus 250 degrees and
liquid oxygen at minus 180 degrees,
must be precisely controlled. That is what the valve system does.
Due to the frequent occurrence of abnormality in pressure
at the last combustion test of the Model T-12,
we are currently developing a new Model T-13
to make a radical change to the pressure regulator valve which is the heart of the valve system.
- At the present time, it's progressing... - That's enough.
Zaizen.
Yes, sir.
When will this so-called radical pressure regulator valve be ready?
As soon as possible.
A month at the most.
I see.
All right.
Now that you said it in front of the President, there's no taking it back.
Only 1 month left.
Are you really sure the new valve system will be ready by then?
You can be sure we won't do anything to bring disgrace to you.
If we fail, it's not Teikoku Heavy Industries that will be disgraced,
but the future of this country's space industry.
We cannot disgrace ourselves with something like that sorry scene that happened 7 years ago.
I am well aware of it.
Tomiyama.
We must make sure the combustion test we're doing in a week is a success.
Yes.
Because of Nakashima's big press announcement,
15 companies including Mishima Heavy Machinery, Himekawa Trading Co.,
Aichi Motors, and Misaki which handles agricultural machinery
have promptly notified us that
either they're reconsidering or indefinitely postponing taking delivery of Stella.
In any case, all we can do is explain to each of them that we're not at fault and dispel their misunderstanding...
We may not have enough time.
I did a rough calculation of our cash flow for the next 6 months.
- And? - At this rate, in 2 months
our settlement funds would be exhausted.
Even if we take into consideration money received from sales to date,
it's very likely that we'd be caught without funds at the closing of books in 6 months.
Wait a minute. Are you saying that we'll go bankrupt in 6 months?
Well...yes.
6 months, huh?
It's strictly a calculation in anticipation of the worst case scenario.
Anticipating the worst isn't going to help us any.
As our accounting chief, how do you intend to deal with this?
The President and I have been asked by the bank to come over tomorrow.
In any case, I'll try to see if there's any way we can get a loan once more.
Tonomura-san, if you can't get a loan for us at a time like this,
what's the point of you being sent here!
6 months...
Do you think we can work something out?
It might be difficult.
In his situation, Tonomura-san can only do what the bank wants to do.
But I suppose that can't be helped,
since the bank is paying for half his salary.
Given the chance, he'd probably want to go back to the bank.
When you get right down to it, he's different from us.
Although from what I hear, anyone who gets loaned out at his age
rarely gets to go back.
We understand what you're saying. But it's Nakashima Heavy Industries, you know.
- That Nakashima. - Are you trying to say that
a small business like us don't have a chance because we going up against a large corporation?
That's not what I'm saying, is it?
Hakusui Bank Kamata Branch Branch Manager Negi Setsuo
But a bank, you know,
is constantly anticipating the worst case scenario.
Refusing to give us a loan anticipating the worst case scenario is hard to accept.
We've been doing business with Hakusui Bank for 20 years since my father's era.
For my part, I've been responsive to your request.
It was business relationship of mutual trust.
If you abruptly turn you back on us when we need you the most,
how can you call yourself our main bank?!
What are you planning to do about your R&D expenses?
Well...
- that's... - After pumping in a lot of money,
if you're going to get sued for an enormous amount of compensation for damages,
what's the point in developing anything?
Even then, are you still planning to continue?
With your useless research.
Do you know what that's called, Tsukuda-san?
It's called pastime.
We, as a bank, have no intention of lending money for your pastime.
Things like how many years we've known each other and mutual trust are meaningless.
Accommodation of funds isn't about things like that.
- What is it then? - It's business.
The profit that we worked so hard to gain is being gobbled up for research.
There's a lot of employees in the company who think so.
You still can't forget the dream you had when you were a researcher, can you?
For now, won't you give first priority to the company and the employees' livelihood?
Wait a minute. Are you saying that we'll go bankrupt in 6 months?
Well, yes.
Tsukuda Kohei's Residence
So what's happening with the lawsuit?
- We're dealing with it. - If you lose the lawsuit,
will we have to sell this house?
I'll work it out so that that doesn't happen.
Besides, there's Rina too.
- About that Rina...
- I hate to bother you at a time like this, but... - What?
I got called to the school today.
Tsukuda Kohei's mother, Tsukuda Kazue
- Hey, how about knocking first?! - What the heck are you doing!
- What? - I heard you students went to karaoke by yourselves
and got a talking to from your teacher.
You said you had badminton practice and meeting, didn't you?
- What's wrong with taking a break once in a while. - Break...
Taking a break is fine and dandy.
But I hear you've been missing your club activities for more than a week.
What part of that is a break?
Where have you been roaming around, lying to your parent?
What's it to you where I've been.
Tsukuda Kohei's daughter Tsukuda Rina
I have social obligations too.
There are things I don't want to tell you as well.
What are those things you don't want to tell me?
Why would I tell you things I don't want to tell you. That's so stupid.
Is that any way to talk to your father!
Like you care. You're always working and hardly ever home.
Don't act like a father only when you feel like it.
Listen, I...
Please don't tell me you're working hard for our sake.
That's what everyone does.
Parents who think they're doing their kids a favor are the worst.
- Are you going to quit badminton? - I guess.
I played enough already.
Weren't you planning to go to college on a sports recommendation? What about that?
I'll just take the entrance exam like normal.
No, no, no. Entrance exams aren't that easy.
If you think you can just go wherever you're accepted
and take it easy for 4 years, I won't allow it.
If I go to Keio's Department of Science and Technology, you'll approve?
You'll be happy if it's where you and Mom went, right?
Hello.
So you were sued by Nakashima Industries, huh?
- Don't sound so happy about it.
You may not believe it, but I called because I was worried.
Saying whatever you please out of the blue, Rina must've taken after you.
- Did something happen to Rina? - No, it's nothing. So why did you call?
According to rumors, Nakashima Industries is good at legal tactics.
Can you win going up against people like that?
That's nothing for you to worry about.
- Well, I guess so. - Is that all?
- That's all - Bye then.
Okay...Hey.
What?
If you're looking for an attorney, I can introduce you to someone.
A go-getter specializing in intellectual property.
Ex-wife Izumi Saya
Formerly from Tamura Ohkawa Law Firm.
What's this "Tamura Ohkawa"?
A major law firm that Nakashima Industries have a consulting agreement with.
A friend of mine worked there and went on his own a few years ago.
I'm sorry, but we have a seasoned veteran legal adviser too, so no thanks.
Then I guess it's none of my business.
I'm glad you're doing well.
Listen.
About Rina...
I don't understand how a girl feels very well.
In fact, she...
What the heck, damn it.
The defense is denying our claim in its entirety, but
First Oral Proceeding
they're so far off the mark that I have serious doubts as to whether they really verified the facts.
Tsukuda Manufacturing's Stella engine
has Nakashima Industries' Lloyd engine's patented turbine blade...
As if you didn't rip off the whole thing from us.
It is apparent that they copied the stainless steel 09 material
and utilized the design technology using CFD analysis developed by Nakashima Industries.
Counsel for the Defense, what do you have to say about those points?
Yes, Your Honor.
In regards to copying of the specs, I gave him detailed instructions via e-mail, so he should be fine.
Let's go. Counterattack, Sensei.
In regards to those points...
In regards to those points, I'd like to offer a counterargument at the next hearing.
Your Honor. I fail to understand how the Counsel for Defense was able to
compose the written response when he's unable to give us a clear answer here.
What are your thoughts on that point, Counsel for the Defense?
Yes, Your Honor. I will respond at length at the next hearing.
That's about what I expected for today.
But their attorney appeared to be quite knowledgeable about technology.
Listen, Sensei.
This case...
could it be that it's a bit too much for you?
What are you trying to say?
What their attorney pointed out earlier were very basic things.
If you comprehended what we had told you earlier,
- you could have responded easily. - I'm not a a technician.
After understanding the specialized knowledge, out of the blue...
It wasn't out of the blue! We told you...
Hey.
Sensei, if you keep on evading the question
every time you're in court, it's only taking more time...
If I make inaccurate counterarguments and get tripped up on my own words,
- we'll be playing into our enemy's hands. - Sensei,
we need to get this done in 6 months.
You keep on harping me about time, but
whether or not there really was patent infringement, that's what we...
- We did no such thing! - Like I said,
even if you insist that you're in the right,
there's the judge's impression to consider too.
Besides, the opponent is a large corporation
and you're a small business.
Sensei, I'm sorry, but do you mind if we start all over from the selection of our attorney?
After how things went today, it's obvious we'll run out of time.
That's why I told you, we'll be playing into their hands if I make wishy washy comments.
Then don't make any wishy washy comments.
Tsukuda-san, do you feel the same way too?
I'm sorry.
I...!
I reluctantly stayed on as the unprofitable legal adviser
for Tsukuda Manufacturing because of my friendship with your father.
Are you going to repay that kindness with ingratitude?
Go ahead and do as you please.
But I don't think you'll find one.
An attorney who'd agree to take on a losing battle like this.
It's too late when you come crying to me later on. Remember that!
- I'm sorry, President. I spoke out of line. - No.
That's something
I should have said myself.
Angle of incidence 5 degrees.
Wood lane with a surface hardness of 25 degrees.
A dry zone in front of the pins.
Reduce the coefficient of friction by throwing a hard ball.
Ta! Shit!
This time, put more topspin on the ball...
No luck. Every law firm said
going against Nakashima and Tamura Ohkawa Law Firm on an intellect property lawsuit
is too high of a risk and backed off.
I see.
I'm sorry. It's all because I acted without thinking.
You're right about that. How are we supposed to fight in court without an attorney?
More importantly, it's the funding.
How's the loan from the bank coming along?
If things stay as is, we're going to go bankrupt before we can fight in court.
President!
- Let's cash out our CD. - CD?
- By CD, you mean the time deposit at Hakusui? - Yes.
But isn't Hakusui putting a lien on it as a collateral
in case we go bankrupt?
You mean restricted account? Times have changed now.
- It's prohibited by the Financial Services Agency as well. - Even so,
wouldn't that get us on the bad side of the bank?
If that happens, Tonomura-san,
you would be placed in an awkward situation...
You'll hire me here, right?
You'll officially hire me, won't you? President.
Sure.
However, even with the CD,
the company reaching dead end in 6 months
will just be prolonged to 1 year.
1 year, huh?
For the time being, we'll have to find an attorney as soon as possible.
Saya
Hello.
Uh... It's me.
What is it? I'm on my way to London for a conference. Keep it short, please.
Well, the thing is...
Isn't the trial going well?
Actually, uh... Actually...
You need an attorney, right? No problem I'll e-mail you his contact info later.
Thanks! I really appreciate it.
- By the way, did you see today's Maicho News? - Yeah.
Sounds like the launch date's been set, but
apparently they're still having problems with the valve system.
This will be Japan's first purely domestic rocket. Let's hope it succeeds, huh?
Yeah.
Teikoku Heavy Industries Rocket Combustion Test Center Izumo City, Shimane Prefecture
Stardust Project Hydrogen Engine for X-II Rocket "Monotone"
We're all set to go.
Combustion test, start.
We will now begin combustion test. Engine combustion, start.
- Ignite. - Ignite!
59 60...
300 seconds to go.
64 65 66 67
Combustion gas is leaking from the preburner!
I apologize deeply.
What's the situation?
We are currently investigating the cause of explosion.
Is the valve system the cause?
No, we haven't determined that yet.
It's true the combustion gas started leaking from the valve system, but
we can't say for sure at this time until we analyze the data.
If you determine the cause, can you make it in time for the combustion test?
Yes. We'll switch over to a three-shift system operating full capacity 24/7.
But if the cause was the valve system, there's not enough time.
It's game over for me and you two.
Sorry to keep you waiting. I'm Kamiya.
I'm Tsukuda from Tsukuda Manufacturing.
I'm sorry. I haven't looked through the material you sent me very carefully yet.
Kamiya Law Office Attorney Kamiya Shuichi
They're all technical data, after all.
You can't go through them in a day or two.
Anyway, please come this way. This way.
I have a few things I don't understand.
- Excuse me, but did you put all those tags. - Yes.
Did you go through all this material here?
I just skimmed through them real quick.
I thought I'd ask you a few questions before we get into the subject of the trial.
Eh?
Are you saying you're willing to take our case?
Yes, of course. That's my plan, but I have one condition.
Thank you!
Sensei, you're the only one we can depend on!
I'm really, really...
I'm sorry. We've been refused by so many attorneys already.
Is that right? That must've been tough.
There's a lot things an average attorney can't compete with when the opponent is Nakashima.
I understand you were previously at the same law firm as their attorney.
That's precisely why I decided to take your case.
Let me get straight to the questions.
First of all, your patented turbo turbine blades
which are said to have uniform thickness, this most tricky configuration.
How did you produce this?
- Is there a problem? - Sensei,
are you asking that because you know how difficult that is?
This is a Herculean task, isn't it?
Yes.
That was successfully developed using our very own cut and polish technique.
In order to achieve that uniform thickness,
we started with the development of the cutting and polishing equipment
and spent 2 years perfecting the product.
Is that right. It must be a wonderful technology.
Next, I'd like to ask you about Nakashima Industries' engine.
Based on CFD analysis...
I see. The mystery has been solved. Thank you.
This is nothing.
I even want to thank you for asking the questions.
So what do you think? Can we win?
Do you know my winning percentage in court?
It's 80 percent.
The remaining 20 percent is amicable settlements comparable to a win.
- Do you know why? - Because you're an outstanding attorney?
It's because I don't fight losing battles.
Getting straight to the point, I don't think it would be too hard to
get Nakashima's claim dismissed.
- Really? - Yes.
However, there's one problem.
Time. They'll probably use whatever tactic they can to stall for time.
Until your company's capital is exhausted.
Even if you cash out your CD with the bank,
you can only stay afloat for a year or so, right?
- Yes. - Frankly, in that case,
it may be difficult to bring the trial to a conclusion.
I'd like to have 2 years, if possible, year and a half at the least.
So I'd like for you to raise enough money
to continue the trial for at least 6 more months.
- That's my condition for accepting this case. - I understand.
Also, one more important thing.
Do you know how this all started in the first place?
That's because Nakashima...
It's because the patent Tsukuda-san got was no good.
You mean our technology wasn't good enough?
No, that's not what I meant. Superb technology
and quality of the patent are two different things.
For example, Tsukuda-san,
suppose you invented this thing called a cup.
It's a cylindrical object that's hollow inside.
It has a bottom and it's made of plastic.
Let's suppose that's what you wrote and applied for the patent.
- Now, is that good enough? - Isn't it?
Afterwards, for example, what if someone came up with one made of glass, not plastic?
Or if someone came up with one that had sides?
Would these two be considered patent infringement?
Nakashima copies other company's product by taking advantage of that gray area
and applies for a patent using various shapes and various materials.
Then, even though the cup was invented by you, Tsukuda-san,
if you make improvements on it, it turns out to be patent infringement on your part.
Let's review all your patents immediately.
That would protect the future of Tsukuda Manufacturing.
Got it.
I'll get started on it at once.
- Kamiya Shuichi? - Yeah.
He's an attorney who used to work at our firm.
He's probably one of those who got fired. He shouldn't be a problem.
That's probably true, but it's also true that he knows our tactics well.
If you want to be that cautious, I suppose I could take one more measure.
You'd better be careful your methods aren't too forceful.
I won't do anything to break the law.
Sensei, I've always thought there were two rules in this world.
Ethics and law.
The reason people rarely commit murder
isn't because that's the law.
It's because they're bound by ethics that they shouldn't do something like that.
But companies are different.
Ethics isn't necessary in companies. As long as you obey the law,
you won't be punished no matter what you do.
Depending on the method, you can even destroy the rival company.
For that,
we have a reassuring ally in you, Sensei.
Well, I guess it's only natural for the strong to prey on the weak.
Excuse me. Your party is here.
Come in.
- Sorry I'm late. - Tokuda-san.
- Get another setting ready. - Certainly.
How's it going? Did you find out anything?
According to our accountant who has a close connection to Tsukuda,
it's doubtful if they'll last a year.
I had braced myself, but the situation is much more severe than I anticipated.
I requested a loan of 150 million from Daido Bank and Kansai City Bank, respectively.
As expected, they're both hesitant because Hakusui, our main bank, denied us a loan.
President!
I found a company who's willing to invest in our company.
It's this company.
National Investment?
- Venture capital. - Ah, I see.
An investment company, huh?
I got a call last night from a high school classmate about a reunion.
While talking with him, I found out he's working there now.
I figured I had nothing to lose so I asked him,
and he said there's a good chance they can help us.
Initially, probably about 150 million in the form of convertible bonds.
All right!
With that, we may be able to hold out somehow for a year and a half.
Let's get the contract rolling right away. And call Kamiya Sensei too.
Second Oral Proceeding
The originality claimed by the defense in their written response
infringes on our Patent No. A119003...
He's saying practically the same thing he did last time.
They're clearly stalling for time.
Your Honor.
In regards to the configuration claimed by the plaintiff,
it was based on the blade of a rocket engine turbo pump
and was manufactured strictly using the defendant's own precision, cutting, and polishing technology.
It is clear that the improvement in question is the extension of that process.
In the first place, in regards to the originality of Stella engine,
specific data have already been submitted as evidence.
The plaintiff's argument is an act of intentionally delaying the trial.
- Counsel for the Plaintiff. - Yes, Your Honor.
As pointed out by the Counsel for the Defense, that argument has been
verified several times in this case brief.
Any further explanation is unnecessary.
Other than that, can we assume that you have nothing new to add?
We'll have it ready by the next hearing.
There are too many arguments irrelevant to issues that have already been resolved.
Please try to focus on the issue at hand.
That's our Attorney Kamiya indeed.
I wish you could've seen the expression on the face of those guys from Nakashima.
If we can keep this up, it might get settled in a year.
- President, is that true? - Yeah.
It's true.
Hey, hey, hey. Let's hear what the President has to say.
Sorry, guys.
For making you worry.
I'm truly
truly sorry.
But with this new attorney on our side,
I'm confident we can overcome this trial.
You can rest assured.
Quiet, please. Quiet.
It's my buddy from that investment company.
We're counting on you.
Hello. Hey, thanks for all your help.
Really appreciate it. So about the amount of investment...
What?
What do you mean?
That's not what you said!
Hey!
What's the reason? Why is National Investment
- refusing to back us up at this point in time? - I don't know.
He only said the company policy changed...
We're back to square one again.
We'll go bankrupt in a year.
We won't even be able to continue the trial.
What kind of a remark is that!
Are you really thinking about the company!
Calm down!
Sensei.
Amicable settlement?
I got an offer from Attorney Nakagawa a little while ago.
The terms of the settlement is divestiture of 51 percent of your company stock.
- In other words, that's... - An acquisition.
To absorb your company's high technology development capability and patents.
That, indeed, was Nakashima's real objective.
Don't you think the timing of National Investment's refusal
- to give you financial support was too good? - Are you saying that
Nakashima was behind that too?
Although I can't say for sure.
They're people who can do things like that without batting an eye.
Shit!
But the fact that you lost the investment
means you'll go bankrupt in a year.
Frankly speaking,
it's impossible to bring the trial to a conclusion in 1 year.
Sensei...
Tsukuda-san.
Rather than sit and wait for the company to go bankrupt,
agreeing to settle may be the way to go.
Are you saying we should agree to the acquisition?
It may be a cruel way to put it, but
in the current situation, you could say that this settlement in the worst form
is the only way to keep Tsukuda Manufacturing in business.
They made the offer precisely because they know that too.
Excuse me for saying this, but if you only consider the scale of business,
Nakashima is far bigger than your company. Becoming their subsidiary
may be better than going bankrupt.
Depending on how we negotiate,
I think there's a way you can stay on as the president.
They want an answer by the end of this month.
This month?
This month... Am I supposed to
decide whether or not to let the company go in just 3 weeks?
They're trying to prevent us from finding a way out.
Tsukuda-san, if you were to keep the company going for 2 years,
how much more operating capital would you need?
300 million (approx. $2.5M)
Well then, can you raise that 300 million yen in the next 3 weeks?
Let me tell you the truth.
There actually was a similar case in the past.
That company firmly refused Nakashima's settlement offer
and eventually went bankrupt.
I don't want Tsukuda Manufacturing to make the same mistake.
Either you raise 300 million within 3 weeks, or
or you agree to settle amicably in order to keep the company alive.
It's one or the other.
Well, those folks at Tsukuda must be in a panic by now.
Now that they know our real objective.
We didn't care about the trial to begin with.
- What we wanted was... - Tsukuda's technical capability.
I'm amazed how you came up with the plan.
We owe it all to you.
None of this would have been possible without Kawashima-san's assistance.
Exactly.
National Investment Yamazaki's Classmate Kawashima Taro
But how did you find out about Kawashima-san's connection with Tsukuda?
That's my job.
I know, right?
Don't scare me like that.
I heard from Grandma.
Sounds like you're still not going to badminton practices.
If you want to quit club activities, so be it.
It's your life, so about college too,
do as you please.
But you know,
I won't allow you to lie to me and go playing around.
That's not what I'm doing.
- Then what are you doing all the time? - Studying for entrance exam at the library.
- Is that the truth? - Can I go now? Good night.
- Wait! - Ouch!
Sorry. Did it hurt that much?
Ever since you took over the company,
all you ever think about is money.
I don't want to spend the rest of my life
6 years ago
with someone like that.
I want to live a life without regrets.
Right now, you
don't have any dream or hope.
I'm looking forward to having this class give rise to
someone with a big dream to
to someday launch a rocket he designed himself.
25 years ago
Keio University, Division of Science and Technology
To those aspiring to study rocketry, this rocket engine
is a product that far transcends human intellect and imagination.
In a sense, it can even be called god's territory.
Your enthusiasm to venture into this unknown field
is a precious thing for which there is no substitute.
I hope you won't forget that passion as long as you live.
This is completely dissolved.
Whether the problem was in combustion chamber itself or whether the problem was in the valve system,
do a thorough investigation as to why the combustion chamber had a meltdown.
Those who control the valve system control the rocket engine.
While Teikoku Heavy Industries was expending manpower and an enormous amount of money
pushing forward to perfect the valve system,
the people at Tsukuda Manufacturing were running around looking for investors
from every possible financial institution, investment company, to individual investor
willing to put up 300 million yen for Tsukuda Manufacturing
in the 3 weeks until the deadline specified by Nakashima Industries.
150 million, no, 100 million is fine.
That's a manageable amount, isn't it?
We can't do the impossible.
90 million then.
We're not in a bidding war, you know.
We owe a lot to Tonomura-san from his Hakusui days
so we agreed to at least meet with you, but
Tokyo Chuo Bank
I'm afraid we can't be of help to you.
I'm sure Tonomura-san is aware too, but
I think you'll get the same response wherever you go.
Asking your main bank, Hakusui, may be your only choice.
Everywhere we go, as soon as they hear we're in a lawsuit with Nakashima,
we're turned away at the door.
Same here.
Although it's true they piss me off, Nakashima is Nakashima even if they're rotten.
Rather than go bankrupt, maybe it's better to settle and become their subsidiary.
Are you saying we should accept Maneshima's rotten ways?
I'm just saying it's better than going bankrupt.
Besides, depending on negotiations, we may be able to stay here.
Chief, is that true?
If we become Nakashima's subsidiary, our pay might even go up.
How can you talk like that? Think how the President must feel.
Didn't all this happen because the President went and spent all the money on his R&D?
- It's because of Nakashima. - Then Tsun-san,
are you saying that it doesn't matter if the company goes bankrupt and we're all left out in the cold?
- That's not what I'm saying, is it? - It's the same thing.
Or are you saying there's some other way?
I'll try to persuade the President.
To try to ask Hakusui for a loan one more time.
In order to overcome this crisis, we have to improve our relationship with our main bank.
The moment we cashed out the CD, any chance of a loan from Hakusui disappeared!
In exchange for ceasing research and development,
we have no choice but to ask them to hear us out again.
What's that about? Are you planning to lay off researchers and developers
Technology Development Dept., Mano Kensaku
to save your own neck?!
What's so great about developing...
If we didn't bust our butt making sales,
no matter how good the product is, it's nothing but an ornament.
- What did you say! - What. Hey!
Stop it. Calm down!
What are you guys doing!
- What the hell's going on? - I'm sorry.
What happened?
President.
I have a request.
The research and development...
please stop it!
If we don't convince Hakusui Bank and have them give us a loan,
Tsukuda Manufacturing will be no more.
Is that why you were fighting?
Do you all feel the same way too?
I'm taking this opportunity to speak my mind.
President, your own dream
Sales Promotion Dept. #2, Section Chief Ebara Haruki
or your employees' livelihood, which is more important to you?
For now, rather than doing R&D for the distant future,
shouldn't protecting the future of the company be your top priority?
I can't agree with your way of thinking either.
Accounting Dept., Section Chief Sakoda Shigeru
If it's going to come down to this, I'd rather come under Nakashima
and work without any worries.
We're falling apart, aren't we? Our company.
They were given to me, but they're pretty good.
Have one.
Do you know?
The person who invented daifuku (rice cake stuffed with red bean paste)
was a woman who lived in poverty during the Edo era.
It was when she didn't have any money and had to somehow sell her rice cake
that she got the idea to stuff it with red bean paste.
Invention goes like that.
It comes at unexpected times like that, huh?
I'm sorry.
All R&D, except for practical usage,
will be stopped for now.
We'll cut back the expenses for R&D
and ask Hakusui Bank for a loan.
That's the only way
I can protect the company anymore.
I know it can't be helped.
I have a favor to ask.
If
you have to lay off someone from our department,
please lay me off first.
Don't worry.
I'll probably have to ask a few people to transfer to another department,
but no one will be fired.
That's a relief.
Thank you.
Please don't thank me.
It's all my fault that things turned out this way.
Go ahead and cuss and swear at me.
How can I do that?
I know that you're the one who's having the hardest time.
I'll help myself to one.
It's good.
I know, right?
It's salty.
Tomiyama-san, the analysis data is out.
According to the fracture analysis, there was no flaw in the combustion chamber material.
It's unlikely that there's a problem with the combustion chamber itself.
Teikoku Heavy Industries Space Development Division Asagi Shohei
Which means...
the cause lies in...
the valve system?
Argh... It got loose again.
Got loose?
Did you get it?
Yes.
The safety wire that should normally be there
on the part that connects the valve to the piping
was missing in one place.
It was an error made by the assembly worker.
- Does that mean the gas leaked from here? - Yes.
It's believed that the connection got loose
from the violent combustion vibration of the engine due to the missing safety wire.
The valve system wasn't the cause.
One little wire like this, and the rocket won't launch, huh?
I refuse to let a mistake like this crush my dream of the first true domestic rocket!
The last combustion test will be conducted in 5 days.
2 more days to deadline to accept Nakashima Industries' settlement proposal
You cashed out the time deposit and was even prepared to quit the bank
to get financing for the company...
To think that I have to depend on them at the end. I'm sorry.
Not at all. You had to make the tough decision
to quit doing research and development. For that, I thank you.
Maybe I should've done this sooner.
As we discussed over the phone yesterday, to accompany the sharp cut in R&D expenses,
we prepared a new profit and loss estimate and business plan.
Well... To be honest, I'm surprised, Tsukuda-san.
I commend you for making the decision to give up something you held dear to your heart.
If you can approve the loan for us,
we'd like to open a new time deposit account as well.
Please consider our request favorably.
The thing is, Tsukuda-san...
you're a bit too late.
We cannot give you a loan this term.
This has already been decided.
What do you mean?
- That's not what you said before! - President...
It can't be overturned now.
Wait a minute, Yanai-san.
We realize we're making an unreasonable request.
Understanding that, won't you reconsider giving us a loan?
Tonomura-san, the branch manager would like to talk to you.
Do you have a few minutes after this?
Such being the case, Tsukuda-san, we hope to have a good business relationship
at another time in the future.
Seriously, President Tsukuda sure is an unlucky guy.
- Absolutely. - Branch Manager, just once more...
If Tsukuda Manufacturing becomes an affiliate of Nakashima Industries,
we, as the bank, can do bigger business.
That being the case, Tonomura-san,
we'd like you to provide assistance so that the settlement between Tsukuda and Nakashima
proceeds without a hitch.
Did you intentionally call off the loan to Tsukuda Manufacturing to make that happen?
Rather than giving a loan to Tsukuda Manufacturing with an uncertain future,
encouraging them to become a subsidiary of Nakashima Industries
- is the natural thing to do as a bank. - President Tsukuda trusted the bank
and decided to stop the research and development for now.
So? People get desperate when the pressure's on.
-It's not something that deserves praise. - But...
That aside, you cashed out the time deposit, didn't you?
You must have had a strong resolve to go that far.
After all that, you can't expect us to accommodate you at your convenience.
Isn't that right? Tsukuda Manufacturing's Tonomura-san.
Good girl.
Abnormality noted, abnormality noted!
There's difficulty with ignition of stage 2.
- Emergency shutdown! - Sensei, please wait!
Maintenance command on!
Just the like rocket Seiren 7 years ago,
Tsukuda Manufacturing had gone off its track and
the emergency stop button had to be pressed.
That's what Tsukuda was feeling acutely at that moment.
Valve System Model T-13 Final Combustion Test
New Rocket Assembly Plant Tsukuba City, Ibaraki Prefecture
To all at the Tsukuba Plant. This is the Izumo Rocket Combustion Test Center.
The test will start in 30 seconds.
President.
Let's get it rolling.
Yes, sir.
We will begin the combustion test.
10 9 8 7 6
5 4 3 2 1
Ignite engine.
3 minutes until the target elapsed time.
All numerical values are maintaining their normal values.
No abnormalities noted at this time.
Please...please.
Please...
30 seconds until the target elapsed time. No abnormality noted in numerical values.
14 13 12 11
- 10... - 10 more seconds.
8 7 6 5
4 3 2 1
- Stop the engine. - Stop the engine.
Thrust level, combustion pressure level,
engine mixture ratio, all within the normal range.
The experiment
is a success.
Tomiyama-san.
We did it!
Zaizen.
Good job.
No, the credit goes to
Tomiyama, who developed the new valve system, and
the combined effort of the 3,000 people of the Space Division.
Everyone! You did well.
Zaizen.
Have all the problems been cleared?
Yes, sir. We attained the objective to manufacture all the main components in-house.
All that's left is to launch the rocket.
Good.
Science News Teikoku Heavy Industries' Test of its Self-Manufactured Rocket a Success!
What the heck am I doing?
It's finally tomorrow, huh? The deadline for Tsukuda's response.
It's as good as settled, right?
Of course. Otherwise, they'll go bankrupt.
There's no other choice.
For Tsukuda.
I'm sorry.
Sorry.
President.
You probably heard from Tono-san, but
today, the bank refused to give us a loan.
Now,
there's only one way we can avoid bankruptcy.
I...
decided to
accept Nakashima Industries' proposal to settle amicably.
Tsukuda Manufacturing
will become a subsidiary of Nakashima Industries.
But I promise I'll do everything I can
to make sure you employees' working condition doesn't change,
- so don't worry about that. - President, you're going to stay too, aren't you?
No, I'll take responsibility and resign.
If I don't, Nakashima won't agree to it either.
At least at the end, let me act like the president.
What are you talking about?
You've always been...
Yamazaki.
I have a favor to ask.
Please
continue creating and developing.
Whether it's for Nakashima or Tsukuda, it doesn't matter.
The technology and dream that you all cultivated so desperately until now,
I want you to pass it on to the next generation.
If technological development stops, the world will stop growing.
So please,
don't distinguish the creative light.
For coming along with me until now,
I thank you.
Wait just a minute!
Is this what you really want? Is this how you want it to end?
There must be a way.
Let's not give up until the end and put our heads together.
Tonomura-san.
What are you saying out of the blue?
I know that everyone dislikes me.
But I...
I love this company!
That's why I did everything I could for the accounting department.
The things you all found hard to tell the President, I told him first.
I love this company more than anyone else!
The reason I wanted to work for a bank
was because I wanted to help businesses that remained obscure even though they had technological skills.
I wanted to help out the creating and manufacturing Japan as a banker.
That...
was my dream.
But
it never came true.
But President, you're different.
You are loved by your dream.
So
don't run away.
I beg you,
please don't give up.
As a petty former banker, I've seen hundreds of companies.
I can tell.
Tsukuda Manufacturing
is a wonderful company.
It's truly a wonderful company.
That's why
I want to protect it at all cost.
I want to protect it.
Thank you.
Thank you,
Tono-san.
Sensei.
I asked him to come.
I wanted to tell him about my decision to settle.
Sensei, let's...
There still may be one thing we can do.
But it's a double edged sword that, instead of securing a loan,
spews out even more money.
Conversely, if it goes well, we can thoroughly crush out Nakashima
in a short period of time.
Remember what I told you? That my winning percentage is 80 percent.
The remaining 20 percent is amicable settlements comparable to a win.
The reason being, I don't fight losing battles.
But watching you folks
made me want to take a chance just this once.
Sink or swim.
Do you want to give it a try?
- What is that method... - That's...
Attorney Nakagawa Kyoichi
Here it comes.
Good morning, Nakagawa Sensei.
Getting straight to the point, did Tsukuda contact you about the settlement?
What?
All the employees are here.
Ever since Nakashima sued us for patent infringement,
our company fell into an unprecedented business slump.
Regardless of Nakashima's methods, the fact that I didn't have adequate measures in place
and put the company in a difficult position
is entirely my responsibility as the president.
I'm truly sorry.
You probably already know, but we got a proposal from Nakashima to settle amicably.
The terms of the settlement is divestiture of 51 percent of company stock.
In effect, it's an acquisition.
Today is the deadline to give them my response.
Nakashima Industries, with 15,000 employees
and annual sales of 600 billion (approx. $5 billion),
is a company listed with first section of the Tokyo Stock Exchange
that we can't even compare with.
Rather than going bankrupt,
staying alive by becoming their subsidiary
is probably not a bad choice at all.
I, too,
decided to settle amicably
and almost gave up at one time.
What stopped me from doing that were
people like Attorney Kamiya,
and Chief Tonomura,
and...
and the employees who are here.
That's why
I will not settle amicably with Nakashima!
15,000 employees? Annual sales of 600 billion?
Listed on Tokyo Stock Exchange? So what!
Tsukuda Manufacturing
has world-class technological skills
that can't be compared to those things.
And the best employees
who cultivated that.
This treasure,
I'm not about to hand it over to the likes of Maneshima!
The guys at the bank laughed and told me that I'm too old to be dreaming.
But you know, what's wrong with a middle-aged guy who's old enough to know better having a dream!
What's so wrong about a small factory having a dream!
Cast aside by the bank, abandoned by clients.
But still, Tsukuda Manufacturing
has you guys.
That's why I decided to fight.
Attorney Kamiya
came up with the only way to fight Nakashima.
It's...
counter claim.
Just as Nakashima filed a claim against our Stella engine,
this time we're filing a lawsuit again Nakashima's main product, Elmer II,
for patent infringement.
We're going to win this lawsuit against Nakashima
and regain Tsukuda Manufacturing's trust.
If you have any objection to my plan of action, don't hesitate to speak up.
I'm here ready to resign at any time.
But let me tell you just one thing.
No matter how difficult the problem, there's always an answer.
Please,
please give me a helping hand.
Let's do it, President!
Chief.
- What's wrong? - Look at this.
Application for a patent with the same content as the valve system we developed
was already submitted 2 weeks before us.
It was already submitted doesn't cut it!
Why didn't you verify it sooner?
I'm sorry.
It was fine when I verified it before.
But it appears an application for priority claim was submitted after that.
What the heck is that?
It's to supplement an application for a patent that was filed once with additional technical data
and resubmit it again.
What's this company called Tsukuda Manufacturing.
Capital 30,000,000 yen (approx. $250K)?
Only 200 employees?
This...
this small business that's a nobody developed the valve system,
this pressure regulator valve that resulted from the collective knowledge and technology of
3,000 employees of Teikoku Heavy Industries, Space Development Department.
Are you saying that they had it developed already?!
Name of Invention Pressure Regulator Valve for use in Hydrogen Engine for Full Size Rocket
Patent No.
Inventor
Tsukuda Kohei