Shanghai-based Wicked Lasers Created the Spyder III Pro Arctic Laser. A high powered laser, priced at $199, that is 4000% stronger then a standard laser. Its housed is a case that resembles a lightsaber and has been dubbed "a real-life lightsaber" in the blog-o-sphere.
CNN obtained a copy of a cease-and-desist letter sent to Wicked Lasers from Lucasfilms. The CAD, dated last month, says "It is apparent from the design of the Pro Arctic Laser that it was intended to resemble the hilts of our lightsaber swords, which are protected by copyright ..." The letter also refers to many media reports and blog posts that call the laser a lightsaber.
Steve Liu, CEO of Wicked Lasers, has never compared the Pro Arctic Laser to a the Jedi weapon wielded by Luke Skywalker, Darth Vader and others in the "Star Wars" franchise. But Liu did point out to CNN that his company has been selling similar lasers for years. He also mentioned the product is aimed at industrial, military and research customers.
Lucasfilms believes the reports and blog posts that tout the laser as a real lightsaber "make it clear that the public is being led to believe that the Pro Arctic Laser is an official lightsaber device and/or copied from our design,".
This isn't the first time the company has done this sort of thing over perceived copy right threats. Hover this does appear to be one of the more frivolous ones they have chased after. While the laser does resemble the lightsaber it is not referred to one by the company. Since no copyright has actually been violated here and no "Star Wars" branding has been used, Lusacfilms can't do anything more then the CAD letter.
If further legal action is taken i don't think Wicked Laser will have any problem fighting it off. I don't see this laser going anywhere. At worst the company may change the housing of the laser. Personally i think that would be a mistake.
Producer Mike
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