7 years ago, Tsukuda Kohei,
who developed the engine for the new rocket model Seiren,
quit JAXS to take responsibility for the unsuccessful launch,
and took over as President of Tsukuda Manufacturing which his father left behind.
For the further growth of the company, Tsukuda invested a large amount of money and
concentrated his effort on the R&D department.
However, among the patents that were obtained through that effort were...
Patented goods that don't reap profit are nothing but junk.
Some people in the company were starting to question
Tsukuda's ways of pumping money into
what appeared to be useless developments at first glance.
As if to add insult to injury, they were sued by a major rival company, Nakashima Industries,
for patent infringement against their main product.
Compensation for damages in the amount of 9 billion yen.
What the hell is this?!
Tsukuda Manufacturing, who lost one client after another,
due to harmful rumors caused by Nakashima's dastardly scheme,
was even forsaken by their bank,
and would be driven into bankruptcy in a year.
But his divorced ex-wife Saya introduced him to Kamiya, an attorney said to be
top class in cases related to intellectual property, and
ventured to fight Nakashima in court.
However, being financially strapped,
Tsukuda realized that continuing the trial would be difficult,
and convinces himself to accept Nakashima's settlement proposal to acquire them.
But, just then...
There still may be one thing we can do.
If it goes well, we can thoroughly crush out Nakashima
in a short period of time.
- What is that method? - It's counter claim.
We're going to sue Nakashima too.
In the meantime around that same time, Teikoku Heavy Industries' Zaizen,
who had been pushing forward with the Stardust Project in an effort to
launch the first purely domestic rocket,
overcame the ordeal
and finally perfected the valve system which can be said to be
the keystone of a rocket engine.
However, just when they were about to start constructing the rocket,
an incredible truth came to light.
- Are you positive? - Application for a patent
with the same content as the valve system we developed
was already submitted 2 weeks before us.
What's this company called Tsukuda Manufacturing.
Yes, among the products that were ridiculed as "junk"
and called useless patents by the bank,
there existed that valve system already.
And the people at Tsukuda were not aware of that yet.
Now again, Tsukuda Manufacturing was about to be
swallowed by a tidal wave over another patent.
Do you know their president?
The man by the name of Tsukuda Kohei.
He's the man who was in charge of
developing the engine for Seiren, rocket launch that ended in failure 7 years ago.
- That guy... - Do you know him?
No, at the time I was in charge of an experimental satellite to mount on a rocket.
I never met this man called Tsukuda who was involved in engine development.
I see.
Is that right... The man in charge of developing that, huh?
What shall we do?
Don't tell anyone about this yet.
I'll tell General Manager Mizuhara when the time is right.
If word gets out that
the world-renown Teikoku Heavy Industries was left in the dust by a town factory level small business like that
to perfect the valve that took an all-out effort by our Development Department,
it's not just a matter of being the laughingstock.
The President will lose face.
To self-manufacture all key technologies of a rocket is the President's long-cherished wish.
We'll need to do a little more research on Tsukuda Manufacturing.
This is a short term risk-all decisive battle.
Fighting two lawsuits concurrently means
more expenses piling up, and an increase in financial risk.
And the time limit the company can hold out is shortened.
Are you prepared for that?
Please do it.
Counter claim be damned! Fine, bring it on.
I'll teach them they're premature by a million years
to pick a fight with us on intellectual property lawsuits.
- Isn't that right, Sensei! - Mita-san.
To get right to the point, this isn't good.
Tsukuda is claiming that the structure of your company’s main product, Elmer II,
is extremely similar to the one side maintenance technology they developed and patented,
and filed a lawsuit for patent infringement.
If you should lose the lawsuit,
not only will you have to pay 7 billion yen for damages,
but the sale of Elmer II will be prohibited
and your company will suffer a severe blow.
We're not going to lose.
In fact,
we didn't give a damn about winning or losing to start out with.
We'll just have to take our sweet time with both trials
and wait for Tsukuda to self destruct.
It's the starvation tactic. Starvation tactic!
First Public Trial
The first trial for the counter lawsuit filed by Tsukuda Manufacturing
against Nakashima Industries for patent infringement of Elmer II was held.
There are numerous ambiguous parts in the application details for the subject patent...
- Even now, they're still stalling for time. - Don't worry.
I'm sure Kamiya Sensei will bring down the other attorney like the last time.
- Your Honor! - Here it comes.
The argument made just now has no relevance to the point in dispute.
This kind of argument is thought to be unnecessarily...
Counsel for the Plaintiff.
The Court does not think so.
Counsel for the Defense, please continue.
Who the heck is that judge?
That Judge Tabata
is famous as a supporter of large corporations.
- What?! - In similar trials from the past 3 years,
18 out of 21 cases,
80 percent were in fact were ruled in favor of large corporations.
- How can that be! - Furthermore,
I have more bad news.
Judge Murata who has handing the Stella engine case
is apparently moving to the provincial district due to staff reassignment,
and Judge Tabata will be handling both of our cases.
A judge like that?
Was it really a good idea to file a counter lawsuit?
Making enemies of the bank, refusing to accept Nakashima's settlement proposal.
Is the President really doing the right thing?
All I want to do is work normally for a company where
I won't have to worry about things like bankruptcy and layoffs.
- Is that asking for too much? - No.
If only the company had a little more capital.
Hello. Tsukuda Manufacturing.
Pardon me? Teikoku Heavy Industries...
What does Teikoku Heavy Industries want from us all of a sudden?
Don't know. They said it's an important matter so they'll tell us when they get here.
What the heck is it this time?
- Have we done business with them before? - No.
As far as I know, we've never dealt with them from the time my dad was running the show.
Tea. We only have the usual...
- Chief...Chief! - What?
Don't you have other things to worry about!
If they're filing some kind of a claim, you've got to think of a countermeasure.
- You're right. - Tsun-san.
What department of Teikoku Heavy Industries? Is it small vehicles?
- Or marine vessels? - I think he said
he's from the Space Development Business Division.
Uh...that its Managing Director will be coming.
- Space Development Business Division... - President!
Must be the hydrogen engine.
Do you suppose they want us to let them use our patent?
No, that can't be it.
The paper said their combustion test was a success.
Maybe they're coming to hear your failure story of the rocket launch.
So that they won't fail to make the same failure for their failure.
Don't keep saying "failure." You're bringing back bad memories.
Sorry. But maybe for real, you know.
President! It's about time for their arrival.
- Take the big boxes first. - I'll go greet them.
- I'm coming too. - Hurry!
Stop in front of the gate.
We, at Teikoku Heavy Industries, Space Development Business Division,
as you all know, are currently
pushing forward to manufacture a purely domestic rocket to be launched in a year.
Recently, however, we found ourselves in a situation where
our patent application for the valve system,
which is the most crucial key device of a hydrogen engine, was denied.
Upon review, we found out that your company had beat us to it.
Frankly, I'm surprised.
Tsukuda-san, I'll come right out and say it point blank.
Won't you let us have your company's patent?
Naturally, we will pay you fair value.
Won't you give it some thought?
- It's so sudden, I don't know what to say. - I believe that your patented technology
will live up to its full potential all the more in our rocket engine.
It would be a great shame
if that wonderful patented technology remained buried in obscurity.
- Buried in obscurity? - With all due respect,
does your company have any products that can fully utilize that valve system?
Are you implying that for a small business like us, it's wasted treasure?
No...that's not what I'm saying. That's not what I'm saying, but
Excuse me.
We didn't develop that to sell it to start out with.
- Whether we sell or not... - How about for 2 billion yen (approx. $16.5 million)?
Excuse me!
Tsukuda-san,
please sell us your valve system patent
for 2 billion yen.
Misaki.
Hey, how were things going upstairs?
- 2 billion... - 2 billion?!
- 2 billion... - What do you mean 2 billion?
Rocket...
- R-rocket? - Rocket.
It's got to be hydrogen engine. Hydrogen engine, right?
Zaizen-san,
that valve system was
finally perfected after many years of trial and error.
In a manner of speaking,
it's like a child we raised with tender care, and
we have an emotional attachment to it.
It's not something that we can let go that easily.
Then, for how much would you let us have it?
It's not a matter of money. Isn't that right, President?
Rather than a transfer,
is it possible, for example, to sign a patent licensing agreement?
A patent licensing agreement transfers less than ownership rights in a patent, which grants certain rights to the licensee
No.
In that case, if you provide that technology to another company,
we will be unable to maintain our competitive edge in rocketry.
That shouldn't be a problem if we sign a contract giving you exclusive rights.
That isn't compatible with our company's stance.
What is that so-called stance of yours?
To own all the rights to our key device.
That's just a one-sided circumstance of a large corporation.
Absolutely. We have our own circumstances.
However, Tsukuda-san,
don't you have your own circumstances too?
I heard you were having a difficult time
with Nakashima Industries in court.
What your company needs now
is ample funds to continue fighting in court, isn't it?
Are you telling us to sell it
- because we need the money? - No.
That's not what I meant at all.
We'll pull out for today, but
can you mull over the idea amongst yourselves?
How much time would you need?
1 week then.
I'll give you a call as soon as we reach a decision.
I look forward to hearing from you. We ask that
you consider our request favorably.
President. President.
- President, this is just great! - It's 2 billion. 2 billion!
I'm just amazed. Who would've thought that patent was worth 2 billion!
W-wait a minute, guys.
Nothing's been decided yet.
The decision will be made after we talk it over.
What is there to talk about, President.
You've got to sell. Sell. Definitely sell, right?
Emotional attachment, my ass.
What good does it do for them to hold on to that patent.
They're after the money, I'm sure.
They probably think that if they hold out, they can get more money for it.
- Sounds like something a subcontractor would think. - Anyway...
they'll come calling to say they want to sell in about a week.
After raising the price a bit.
I'm willing to pay up to 5 billion.
If that's what it takes to keep the Stardust Project going,
it's a cheap price to pay.
That afternoon, Tsukuda Kohei gathered the executives in the position of section chief and above
and a few others involved in the development of the valve system
to discuss the sale of the patent.
The immediate problem for us is financing, isn't it?
- That's right! - What's more!
Because we filed a counter claim,
this company's on the brink of life or death.
That's for sure! If selling the patent
is going to resolve all the problems,
I think we should definitely sell it.
No, I say we go with the patent licensing agreement.
The business might have a chance to expand more that way.
Once we sell it, it's the end!
It's not the end. We'll be left with 2 billion. 2 billion!
I think so too.
This may be a bad way to put it, but
among the things in our hands that we thought had no value at all,
an unbelievable treasure was laying there, right?
Under these circumstances, we should sell immediately before Teikoku changes its mind.
Tonomura-san,
what do you think?
I'm opposed to the idea of selling it for 2 billion.
That's what I figured.
A mere 2 billion is not enough.
I studied up about the valve system on my own, albeit very briefly.
I understand very well now
what a crucial key it holds to launch a rocket.
And that very Teikoku Heavy Industries,
who is known world-wide in that field, is trying to buy that key technology from us.
It validates the fact that
Tsukuda Manufacturing's valve system is of world class quality.
I can only think that Teikoku Heavy Industries is taking advantage of our situation
and trying to beat the price down.
Then...how much is your estimate?
In order to develop that technology, Teikoku Heavy Industries
must have invested over 10 billion yen (approx. $83 million) at the very least over the years.
Then the amount commensurate to that.
10 billion yen is not too much to ask.
Yamazaki.
Let's hear your opinion.
As the Technology Dept. Chief, it makes me very happy that
Tono-san recognized its value to that extent.
But I...
even for 20 billion,
don't want to let go of that technology no matter what.
- That's just argument based on emotion! - No, it's not!
The technology for the valve system
isn't just for regulating full size hydrogen engines.
It's use is much more versatile and innovative.
If we sell it, we'll be throwing that possibility away.
Specifically, what kind of things can it be used for?
That's!
That's...
under review now.
If the company goes bankrupt, all that is meaningless!
Besides, Teikoku Heavy Industries is saying that a patent licensing agreement
won't do, right?
I'm sure there's still room for negotiation.
In the meantime, what if the offer itself is withdrawn?!
That's right, Tsun-san!
All right!
You're in top form today, President.
Okay...
If I get a strike next, I'm going with the licensing agreement.
If I don't... I'll sell it for as much as I can get.
What are you talking about?
- How can you... - I'm concentrating so shut up!
Missed!
- I'm selling the patent. - Oh?
Oh, my...
Does this mean...
It means I should decide for myself.
Sell it or license agreement. Sell it...
- Kohei? - Which is it...
- Kohei! Are your listening?! Kohei! - Yes. What? Sorry.
About Rina...
Recently, she's been wanting money for drinks at badminton practice
or to get her racket repaired, so
I've been giving her special spending money here and there.
- Spending money? - Yeah, but she hasn't been going to club activities, right?
So I was curious what she was spending it on.
Don't tell me she's...
going out with her friends at night again?
It's nothing like that.
I'm coming in.
Does it hurt?
What are you talking about?
Tada~
Grandma found it in the trash can.
It's not a big deal. Besides, it's healed now.
Then why are you ironing with you left hand?
You're right-handed, aren't you?
Is that why you're not going to your club activities?
You've been seeing a doctor and getting physical therapy, right?
- Why didn't you tell me sooner? - Telling you wouldn't have healed it.
You're having a hard time at work now too, right?
Sorry...
- Were you trying not to worry me? - It's not that.
Anyway, just think about healing your injury for now.
I'll help as much as I can too.
Don't worry. You'll be able to play badminton again in no time.
- The sports recommendation too... - Forget it already!
I'm going to bed so get out.
I was only thinking about you...
1 week later
- Have you heard from Tsukuda yet? - No, not yet.
People are starting to get worried.
- That work schedule is getting delayed. - Don't panic.
Tsukuda is sure to jump at the chance.
Tsukuda may be putting on a bold front,
but they need that money so bad right now they can taste it.
Yes... Tsukuda-san, I've been waiting for your call.
Then...how about 2:00?
Yes. I'm looking forward to seeing you.
I appreciate you taking the time to come here.
I apologize for not giving you an answer right away.
Have you decided?
The thing is...
we haven't been able to reach a consensus yet.
As one of the options, won't you
consider the possibility of a patent licensing agreement like we asked before?
We already conveyed our thoughts on that the other day.
We'd like to own the rights to all the key device.
- Licensing agreement is out of the question. - In that case...
we'll need a little more time to reach a decision.
As a result,
please keep in mind that it's possible we may not sell the patent.
Wait a minute, Tsukuda-san.
How do you, yourself, feel about it?
To be honest, I'm wavering.
If at all possible, I don't want to let it go.
But if licensing agreement is out of the question,
perhaps it's better for the company to sell it.
What the best answer is for Tsukuda Manufacturing...
All right. Although the possibility is low,
we'll discuss the feasibility of a patent licensing agreement as well.
- Thank you for your consideration. - However, Tsukuda-san,
with your ongoing lawsuits with Nakashima,
I don't believe you have time to spare.
Please remember that.
This way please.
Then I'll excuse myself here.
In regards to the valve system, I'll call you as soon as we reach a decision.
Zaizen-kun.
General Manager... I didn't know you were here.
Who was that man?
What did he mean by "in regards to the valve system?"
Now that we're almost there, I hear that the Stardust Project is behind schedule
What's going on. Zaizen!
I'm back.
President!
How was Teikoku?
The managing director's office was 10 times bigger than our president's office.
That's not what I meant.
- He said they'll think about the licensing agreement... - President.
- but who knows. - President!
If we don't get going soon, we're going to be late for the trial.
Oh, that's right...
After Teikoku, it's Nakashima...
See you later.
I understand what's going on.
So, what are you planning to do?
We are currently negotiating with Tsukuda Manufacturing
to buy out the patent.
- You're really sure it's gonna work out? - Yes, sir.
President Toma went so far as to declare publicly that
he's staking the future of the company on this Stardust Project.
After making all that noise,
think what's gonna happen if we suddenly announce that the project's been delayed.
The reputation of our corporation in the market will take a nosedive at once.
It's not a matter that can be settled with your neck and my neck.
I know...
Get that patent bought promptly.
Yes, sir!
Hello? This is Zaizen. Yeah...it's been a while.
There's something I want to ask you.
Can we meet somewhere?
The turbine blade on the Stella engine was developed when Tsukuda Kohei-shi, the president,
was involved in the development of a full size rocket engine...
Maicho News Reporter Takase
Whether it's our lawsuit or their lawsuit,
Nakashima's tactic is to stretch it out.
Which one is this?
It's the trial for the first lawsuit against us for the Stella engine.
- Oh, that's right. - It's true this is getting very confusing.
Your Honor!
The plaintiff's argument just now has already been confirmed several times in the past.
I can only think that he's implicitly stalling for time.
Counsel for the Plaintiff.
Please be careful.
Duly noted. Well then, that will be all for our argument.
However, as a witness to substantiate our claim,
I'd like to call the President of Tsukuda Manufacturing, Tsukuda Kohei-shi,
to the witness stand.
Me?!
Counsel for the Defense.
Do you have any objection to the examination of the witness?
No, Your Honor. I have no objection.
Now then, at the next trial date,
the President of Tsukuda Manufacturing, Tsukuda Kohei-shi, will be called to the witness stand.
The court is hereby adjourned for today.
What the heck is this?!
This examination of the witness is probably another one of their tactics to buy time.
But legally, unless there's a good reason,
you can't reject it. Refusing to do it means
you're accepting everything the opponent is claiming.
Tsukuda-san, you'll have to do it.
Look. Let's do a simulation of anticipated questions and answers so that
you'll be ready for anything he asks you. I'll summarize that in notes,
so make sure you memorize the answers. You can't take the notes with you to court.
Of all the various corporate strategies, your company is known for
your nearly flawless court strategy.
It's not what you call a strategy at all. It's just that
we're forced to take appropriate measures against any act that may infringe on our profit.
- Hey. - Hey.
Sorry, but can you wait a bit?
This interview with Maicho News is taking longer than expected.
- I'm sorry. - Let's see...where were we?
You were talking about your current lawsuit against Tsukuda Manufacturing.
Ah, that's right.
That came about because Tsukuda Manufacturing
stole the technology we spent many years developing.
Such conduct is intolerable. What's more,
it's evident from the fact that they accused us of infringing on their patent and sued us
that they would stop at nothing for their own survival.
It's a typical tactic of a small business.
They try to suck out the profit from us large corporations.
They're like parasites.
Sorry to keep you waiting. But I was representing the company for an interview with a nation-wide newspaper.
It's a big headache having to watch what I say.
I didn't want to do it,
but you know...they asked for me by name.
- I'm beat. - That's impressive.
No, no. Not at all.
So, what is it that you want to ask me?
I was wondering how the lawsuit you're handling now is going.
Why do you want to know?
The thing is...
our Special Vehicle Division was interested in using Tsukuda's Stella engine
for the unmanned land mine clearing machine they're developing.
But then, this problem arose.
Someone found out you and I were college classmates
and I was asked to try to find out their real intention and how this case will develop.
Oh, so that's why you wanted to see me.
- Yeah. - I hesitate to say this, but
it's an overwhelming victory for us.
In which case Tsukuda will run into a brick wall sooner or later.
- Does that mean Stella will no longer be available? - No.
That's not necessarily true.
You guys want to use Stella, right? Wait just a little longer.
We'll let you use it for cheap.
So that's what it is.
Your real objective was to acquire Tsukuda
and obtain their rights to everything.
We're strictly the victim of patent infringement.
Although I don't know what will happen with Tsukuda-san depending on how the trial turns out.
Tsukuda apparently has a number of other patents too.
They're all mostly garbage for impractical things.
But then....with patents,
you never know when and what will bring in money, right?
Yeah.
Tomiyama.
If we were to develop a new valve system, how long will it take?
At the very least, 2 years.
That's not even worth considering.
In which case, under the current circumstances, we have no choice but to use Tsukuda's patent.
We may have to prepare ourselves for the worst.
Are you going to accept the patent licensing agreement?!
I understood very well after I met with Mita.
Nakashima's idea of value is whether something's profitable or not.
That's it.
If Nakashima acquires Tsukuda,
God knows how much they'll want for that patent.
Worst case scenario,
they might even sell it a competitor.
That's why you got in touch with Nakashima to confirm that.
Before Tsukuda falls into Nakashima's hands,
we need to get a hold of Tsukuda's patent in whatever form we can.
If we can't use the valve system,
Stardust Project itself will be ruined.
That, we must avoid at all cost.
You're getting questioned as a witness?!
You didn't, by any chance, do something illegal, did you?
- Why would I do such a thing? - When is it? I'll go root for you.
There you go again. Don't come. It's not a kid's recital.
I'm just worried for you. Suing and getting sued.
Right? Rina.
How's your elbow?
- Thanks for the meal. - Hey, Rina.
I'm taking a bath.
She's at that difficult age, huh?
"On what date and year specifically did you draw the blueprint?"
From December 2008, I started drawing
to complete it by October 18, 2009."
"What specifically is the technology used for the distinctive characteristic applied to the Stella engine??
Don't try too hard to do it all by yourself.
This is hopeless.
President...
- What are you doing at this late hour? - Huh?
I feel relieved when I see you here.
Do you remember when this Stella was first completed?
Of course.
Output 70 kilowatts. 80.
20 more till target value! Come on!
Maximum Output Test of Stella Engine
85...
90!
Go! Go, Stella!
95
100! All right!
- Target value reached! - We did it!
It's still going up!
110 115...
120...
125...
130...
What the heck is this?!
This turbine blade is amazing!
It's amazing! Simply amazing!
Back then, it didn't matter what it was,
we just wanted to make something that would surprise the world.
Like a fool with a one-track mind,
we'd make parts here every night.
But boy, that sure was fun.
Now, we got more patents,
and the company grew a little bigger, but
that feeling...
I haven't felt like that in a long time.
Did we...change somehow?
If only...we could be like that once again.
Counsel for the Plaintiff.
The Court does not think so.
Counsel for the Defense, please continue.
Counsel for the Plaintiff.
Please be careful.
The day of Witness Examination of Tsukuda Kohei
- Good morning. Did you sleep well? - Yeah.
- Where's Rina? - She went out.
She said she's studying in the morning.
She's starting to resemble Saya these days.
It's a good thing she doesn't resemble you.
Saya-san's pretty.
I'm not talking about her appearance.
No matter what I say, it falls on deaf ears.
She does whatever she wants.
Who knows what she's thinking.
Look.
- Thanks. You got it ready for me. - It wasn't me.
- She got up early and did it. - What?!
She ironed it, saying you'd look undignified wearing a wrinkled shirt to court.
She even sewed the buttons on.
Kids that age have lots going on and are difficult, but
despite what she says, she worries about you.
Tokyo District Court
"Housing and turbine blade..." Excuse me.
"Housing and turbine blade..."
"...without streamlining the flow of air..."
Tsukuda-san. Tsukuda-san.
- Good morning. - Good morning.
I'm sorry. I'm having a hard time memorizing it.
Never mind that anymore. Please forget about it.
Today, I'd like for you to say exactly what you're thinking in your own words.
What...what do you mean, all of a sudden.
Anyway, please trust me.
There's no need to hold back. Your true feelings...
stand tall and let them know.
Now then, Counsel for the Plaintiff, please begin the examination of the witness.
Yes, Your Honor. President Tsukuda, what are your thoughts on
the circumstances leading to the claim that your Stella engine
used our CFD analysis for its turbine blade
and infringed on our patent?
I will answer your question.
Our Stella engine was developed independently
by our company and was completed in October 2009.
That's about 1 year earlier than Nakashima's development period...
Tsukuda-san. Did you say October of 2009?
What was the date?
Please be specific when you answer.
It was October 18.
What is the basis for your argument that is was completed on that day?
Because it passed the final test.
Are you sure it was October 18?
That was 6 years ago. How can you remember so well?
How can I forget an important day like that.
I didn't ask for your personal opinion.
Then what was the weather like that day?
Do you remember what you had for breakfast, lunch, and dinner?
Why would I remember something like that!
- I don't remember. - Objection.
That question is irrelevant to this case.
I was merely validating the credibility of the witness's memory.
It is extremely questionable.
Objection overruled.
Counsel for the Plaintiff, please continue with your questions.
Tsukuda-san,
do you have any evidence to clearly support your claim
that there was no patent infringement on your part?
It's not even a question of evidence.
The technology for Stella was developed by us without a doubt.
We've kept all the experiment records as well. If you check them,
you can tell at once that my memory is correct.
Those things can be fabricated anytime after the fact.
- Fabricated?! - Besides, Tsukuda-san,
the important thing is who obtained
the most precise patent first.
If you're a company president, that's the least you should...
Oh, that's right. You're originally a technician, aren't you?
Is it true that 7 years ago, a rocket crashed because of the engine you developed?
Objection! The question is totally irrelevant to the case
and is an insult to the witness.
It's an extremely important fact necessary to judge the technological development capability
of Tsukuda Manufacturing.
Does Tsukuda Manufacturing really have the capability to obtain
such a superb patent?
- Objection overruled. - But Your Honor!
It's all right, Sensei.
It's the truth, after all.
Attorney Nakagawa. Just as you said,
I was involved with the development of a rocket engine
and failed.
But you know, because there were failures,
we're where we are today.
Behind the success of just one wonderful invention, there are hundreds,
thousands of failures.
The accumulation of those failures,
the unrewarded efforts of technicians,
I will not allow you to mock them.
A failure is a failure. Please stop trying to make it sound plausible
to justify your lack of capability as a technician...
Who justified anything.
I don't know about great attorneys like you, but
we technicians are all painfully aware of our own helplessness.
Because we run into a wall on a daily basis.
That's exactly why we frantically hone our skills,
immerse ourselves in developing, believing that next time for sure,
and continue to create things!
Do you know why?
Because it's fun.
Things we couldn't do yesterday becomes possible today.
Things we couldn't understand yesterday becomes understandable today.
And if that could be done with our own skill,
- what more can we ask for! - You honor, may I interject?
I believe I've already told the witness to only answer what he's been asked.
Please refrain from making uninvited comments.
No...
I'd like to hear what he has to say.
In regards to this patent infringement suit,
knowing Tsukuda Manufacturing's viewpoint towards technology
is definitely not a waste of time.
Witness, please continue.
Have you ever heard of "hinoshi?"
No.
It's something like a ladle made of metal.
You put hot coals in it to smooth out wrinkles on your clothes and such.
You could say it's the forerunner of the modern iron.
It was used from the Edo Period until around 1955.
It then progressed to charcoal iron and soldering iron.
In the 20th century, the iron as we know it finally appeared.
The person who made this electric iron
is the world-famous Thomas Edison.
Normally, you'll only see me wearing wrinkled shirts.
But today...
my daughter had it ironed for me.
So that I wouldn't be embarrassed to stand in court.
Thanks to Edison for inventing the iron a century ago,
I was able to appreciate my daughter's thoughtfulness.
Isn't this the very power of technology?
Technology support people,
enrich society, bring happiness to people.
Isn't that, indeed, the real power of technology?
What in the world have you been talking about?
Your personal circumstances have absolutely nothing to do with this trial...
Counsel for the Plaintiff, please refrain from making uninvited comments.
I apologize, You Honor.
Nakagawa-san, remember what you said earlier?
That the important thing is who obtained the most precise patent first.
But you know,
the reason I was happy about my daughter today
wasn't because of something like patent.
How can wrinkles on clothes be smoothed out more easily.
It's because of the desire of the technician who made the iron
with only that thought in mind.
Patents should be in place precisely to protect technicians like that, but
once you let that control you
and you're unable to think about anything but money,
progress in technology stops right there.
It's better not to have patents like that.
For you folks, who only have things like patent and acquisition on your mind,
to perfect that technology before us
is absolutely...
absolutely impossible!
The one who's guilty of patent infringement isn't us, but Nakashima!
The witness should refrain from making groundless accusations.
The fact that the defendant infringed on our patent
is apparent from all the evidence and...
Those are the very things that can be fabricated at will.
That's what you said earlier.
In other words, it means evidence like that are meaningless!
I'm sorry...
Your Honor.
Let me just say this.
Even if we lose this trial,
even if Nakashima robs us of our patent,
it doesn't affect us at all!
We'll never be robbed of our technological skills we cultivated over the years.
Justice is on our side!
Now then, as we arranged in advance
in order to improve the efficiency of the schedule, we will now move on to the trial of
a separate lawsuit in progress filed by Tsukuda Manufacturing
for patent infringement by Elmer II...
I screwed up.
Your Honor.
We hereby submit these 48 files of documents as new documentary evidence.
Damn!
They're stalling for time again.
In regards to the defendant's claim,
can you simplify it some more?
Pardon me?
Legal briefs and evidence based on excessive arguments
merely serves to deliberately prolong the trial, and
lacks rational basis.
I have no choice but to make that judgment.
Well then, we prepare a new simplified brief
by the next scheduled oral proceeding.
What kind of legal brief are you planning to prepare?
After I go back to the office, I will..
Please ensure that you strictly refrain from any act of
prolonging the trial.
Both counsels,
do you have some time after this?
I won't take too much of your time.
What's going on all of a sudden?
Let me ask both counsels frankly.
Do you have any intention to settle amicably?
No, we do not.
What about you, Counsel for the Plaintiff?
We are in a separate lawsuit with the plaintiff, but
if we can include that lawsuit and get everything resolved at once here,
I think we can give it a lot of room for consideration.
I see...
After reviewing both sides' claim and evidence,
we, the court, are of the opinion that the claim by the plaintiff, Tsukuda Manufacturing,
that Nakashima Industries infringed on their patent can be upheld almost across the board.
- What?! - Every possible argument and
an enormous amount of evidence was submitted by the Counsel for the Defense,
however, none of them can be said to have enough basis
to overturn the plaintiff's claim.
Furthermore, as the plaintiff claimed,
if a royalty fee was to be collected for the engine
for which the patent infringement occurred,
we do not have any problem agreeing with the fact that
7 billion is an appropriate amount.
Counsel for the Defense. Counsel for the Defense!
Yes, Your Honor...
Even then, do you wish to continue this trial without settling amicably?
We'll continue! We'll definitely continue. Right?
Well then, Counsel for the Plaintiff.
If you were to settle amicably,
what terms of condition you will be seeking?
As I mentioned before, withdrawal of the separate lawsuit filed by
the defendant against us is the condition. If they can agree to do that,
we are willing to lower the settlement amount for this case by 80 percent to 5.6 billion yen (approx. $46 million).
Counsel for the Defense, the terms are as you've heard, but
if you cannot agree to this settlement offer immediately,
please bring this back with you and promptly give it your consideration.
We will do that. Although it goes against our will,
if that is Your Honor's thought,
- we will bring it back with us once... - However,
even if the defendant chooses not to settle amicably, if valid counterarguments
and evidence are not submitted by the next proceeding date,
this case will be considered closed at that time.
- What?! - In that case!
...the decision will be exactly as I mentioned previously, so
please consider it carefully.
That recommendation to settle amicably was comparative to a victory for Tsukuda Manufacturing.
Sensei, what in the world happened?
Why did Judge Tabata all of a sudden...
It's not all of a sudden. Actually, I did a little more research.
I already mentioned before that in the past 3 years,
he ruled in favor of large corporations in 18 out of 21 cases.
But if you look at the flip side, it means
three of those cases were ruled in favor of small businesses.
When I re-examined those cases,
as far as those 3 cases were concerned, the small businesses were clearly in the right.
But in regards to the ruling for the other 18 cases too,
it definitely didn't appear as if he was forcibly ruling in favor of large corporations.
What does that mean?
It means that Judge Tabata is not partial to large corporations,
but that he's a fair judge who takes care to get to the truth.
That's why I wanted you to appeal to him, not with words from the manual,
but with your own genuine feelings you have towards technology.
- So that's what it was. - Yes.
Attorney Kamiya, Judge Tabata would like to see you.
Leave the rest to me.
Thank you!
Now then! To the complete victory of our Tsukuda Manufacturing.
- Cheers! - Cheers!
You did it, President!
Now our clients will come back to us.
What are you talking about, Tsuno-san.
More than anything else, it's the 5.6 billion in settlement money. 5.6 billion!
While we're at it, we might as well sell
the valve system patent to Teikoku for 10 billion.
Now, we can tell them "Take it or leave it!"
No, it's precisely because we have funds to spare
that we should keep the patent and go with the licensing agreement.
Well, although it depends on how much we'll get for it.
President, what do you think?
- I think... - President!
You have visitors.
Well, well, President Tsukuda. You worked hard at the trial.
It must've been tough.
But 5.6 billion in settlement money is amazing!
When all's said and done, it's the company with
technological skills that survives, right?
And so...around when will that money
be deposited in your account?
If the settlement goes through officially, by the end of this month.
That soon? So...what are you planning to do with that money?
What we do with it is our business, isn't it?
Don't worry.
We'll pay back the entire amount of the loan we got from you.
No, that's not what we meant...
Will you stop joking around.
When we really need your help, far from extending a helping hand,
you folks practically demanded us to pay back the money without mercy.
We apologize deeply.
It was all due to our ignorance.
As you can see, we are reflecting on our ignorant behavior.
So please, if we can continue our business relationship...
Please, we beg you...
We will not.
We are preparing to cut all ties with your bank
after the settlement money is paid out.
In the future, Tokyo Chuo Bank will be our main bank.
Just so you know.
How can you? You were loaned out from our bank.
I've already turned in my resignation. I am now...
an employee of Tsukuda Manufacturing!
President! Please
give us a break and reconsider terminating our business relationship.
We're the ones who needed the break.
I'll never forget the cruel treatment I got from you guys.
As fellow human beings, I can't trust you guys at all.
Trusting each other
in good times and bad, that's what a business and main bank is all about, isn't it?
In spite of that,
you come rubbing shoulders with us when it's convenient for you,
but once we start having trouble, you change your tune and abandon us!
You guys don't have the right to be bankers.
Our Tonomura here
is much more of a true banker than you guys!
Tonomura isn't the one who should quit the bank.
It's you guys!
It's rotten bankers like you guys
who spoil even the future of this country.
If you really want to do business with us,
change that attitude of yours that's rotten to the core
and start all over!
I heard you lost the lawsuit with Tsukuda.
Director! Good morning.
Uh...in regards to the lawsuit,
we were merely given a settlement recommendation.
When you get right down to it, they're a nobody.
If we continue the trial with a firm resolution...
Never mind already!
What's this!
"Legal Manager Mr. M, who asserts that small businesses are parasites,"
"scavenges for patents from the weak using underhanded legal tactics."
That bastard...
I'm sorry.
No...the reporter wrote this on his own!
Thanks to your most valuable opinion,
the corporate image we built over the years by expending an enormous amount on advertising expenses
was ruined in an instant!
Can the likes of you take responsibility for that!
Stop the lawsuit right now!
You will be dealt with at a later date.
In the meantime, I suggest you start packing your stuff.
- You wrote this article? - Yes.
Although it was all Kamiya Sensei's idea.
I merely conveyed the truth.
My father's company got burnt by Maneshima too.
- Is he perhaps... - I told you before, remember?
About the trial that triggered my breaking away from them.
That there was a company that firmly refused Nakashima's offer and went bankrupt.
He's the son of that company president.
I'm really glad that
Tsukuda Manufacturing didn't suffer the same fate as my father's company.
President Tsukuda, you're a strong man.
Please continue to persist with your pride as a small business.
I will.
With the way things turned out, Nakashima will have to amend their ways.
Kamiya Sensei, did you perhaps
know that things would turn out this way?
But of course.
Who do you think I am?
I have a winning percentage of 80 percent, with the remaining 20 percent
being amicable settlements comparable to a win.
Just kidding.
Anyway, even when you took the witness stand,
the notes that I wrote ultimately weren't of any help.
It was your words that moved Judge Tabata.
Tsukuda-san,
my heartfelt congratulations.
Thank you.
It's better not to have patents like that.
We'll never be robbed of our technological skills we cultivated over the years.
Justice is on our side!
The only thing left is what to do about the patent with Teikoku Heavy Industries, huh?
Have you decided already?
Whether to agree to sell the patent, or
stick with patent licensing agreement.
Yes.
In my mind, I already have the answer.
Which did you decide on?
Neither.