TRUMPF MEDICAL SYSTEMS, INC.

Plaintiff,

v.

UNITED STATES,

Defendant.

Slip Op. 10-123

UNITED STATES COURT OF INTERNATIONAL TRADE

Before: Pogue, Judge

Court No. 07-00316

OPINION AND ORDER

[Plaintiff’s motion for summary judgment in tariff classification

matter granted in part; defendant’s cross motion denied.]

Dated: October 27, 2010

Simons & Wiskin (Philip Yale Simons and Jerry P. Wiskin) for

the Plaintiff.

Tony West, Assistant Attorney General; Barbara S. Williams,

Attorney in Charge, International Trade Field Office, U.S.

Department of Justice (Mikki Cottet) for the Defendants.

Pogue, Judge: This case concerns the proper tariff

classification of certain surgical light systems imported into the

United States by Trumpf Medical Systems, Inc. (“Trumpf” or

“Plaintiff”). U.S. Customs and Border Protection (“Customs”)

liquidated Trumpf’s merchandise as lamps or light fittings under

various Subheadings of Heading 9405 of the Harmonized Tariff
Court No. 07-00316 Page 2

Schedule of the United States (“HTSUS”).1 Trumpf argues that its

merchandise is properly classified as surgical instruments or

appliances under HTSUS Heading 9018.2 Plaintiff and the United

1 The government points to Subheading 9405.10.6020:

Lamps and lighting fittings including searchlights and

spotlights and parts thereof, not elsewhere specified or

included; illuminated signs, illuminated nameplates and the

like, having a permanently fixed light source, and parts

thereof not elsewhere specified or included: 

Chandeliers and other electric ceiling or wall lighting

fittings, excluding those of a kind used for lighting

public open spaces or thoroughfares:

 Of base metal: 

Other.[] 

Items falling under this Subheading are charged an ad valorem

duty of 7.6 percent. Provisions like Heading 9405.10.6020 are

referred to as basket or residual provisions. See E.M. Indus.,

Inc. v. United States, 22 CIT 156, 165, 195 F.Supp.2d 1473, 1480

(1998). “‘Classification of imported merchandise in a basket

provision, however, is appropriate only when there is no tariff

category that covers the merchandise more specifically.’” Chevron

Chem. Co. v. United States, 23 CIT 500, 506, 59 F.Supp. 2d 1361,

1368 (1999). 

2 Specifically, Plaintiff argues that its merchandise falls

under HTSUS Subheading 9018.90.60: 

Instruments and appliances used in medical, surgical, dental

or veterinary sciences . . . parts and accessories thereof:

Other instruments and appliances and parts and

accessories thereof: 

Other: 

Electro-medical instruments and appliances

and parts and accessories thereof: 

Electro-surgical instruments and
Court No. 07-00316 Page 3

States (“Defendant” or the “Government”) both move for summary

judgment. 

The court has jurisdiction pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 1581(a).

 Because the common meaning of the terms of Heading 9018 does

not support the government’s narrow interpretation of the Heading’s

scope, the court grants, in part, the Plaintiff’s motion.

BACKGROUND

I. Undisputed Facts 

Certain relevant facts are undisputed.

A. Surgical Lights

Plaintiff’s undisputed evidence identifies six characteristics

particular to surgical lights – High Illumination/Brightness, Color

Rendition of Tissue, Light Field Diameter, Shadow Reduction, Limited

Heat/Irradiance and Depth of Illumination – and a category of

factors related to their purchase and sale.3

B. Trumpf’s Surgical Lights

The parties also agree to certain background facts related to

the surgical light systems that Trumpf imported into the United

States. Specifically, between November 2003 and July 2005 Trumpf

appliances, . . . ; all the foregoing

and parts and accessories thereof.

Items falling under this Subheading enter duty-free

3 These characteristics and categories are further detailed

in Appendix A.
Court No. 07-00316 Page 4

imported its “Helion” and “Xenion” surgical light systems.4 (Pl.’s

Stmt. of Uncontested Material Facts (“Pl.’s Stmt.”) ¶ 4(citing

McArver Aff. ¶ 3).)5

These surgical light systems “consist of a surgical light and

a ceiling mounted moveable arm to which the surgical light is

attached.” (Compl. ¶ 6.) The movable arm allows “the surgeon to

position the surgical lamp in the most favorable position during

surgery.”(Id.) 

Among other various parts, the system includes:

• a surgical light or lights with a support boom and

cardanic joint6 (Ex. C to McArver Aff.)

4 Trumpf uses different light bulbs to provide specific

levels of illumination while limiting heat emission. Instead of

using the traditional incandescent light bulb, the surgical light

systems either use halogen gas –- the Helion model –- or xenon

gas –- the Xenion model. (McArver Aff. ¶ 3.) According to

Trumpf, its Xenion lights have many advantages over halogen. 

Xenion lights “provide brighter illumination tha[n] halogen

lights, are more cost efficient and tend to last longer[,]” (id.)

and emit less heat. (Xenion Surgical Light User Manual

(“Xenion”), Ex. B to McArver Aff., 13.)

“Halogen” is “[a]ny of a group of five chemically related

nonmetallic elements including flourine, chlorine, bromine,

iodine, and astatine.” Webster’s II New Riverside University

Dictionary 560 (1988). A halogen is “electronegative,” that is,

it has a “negative electric charge.” Academic Press Dictionary of

Science and Technology 728, 983 (1992). “Xenon” is “noble,” that

is, inert, gas. See id. 1471, 2384.

5 The parties appear to agree that the following entries are

composed of Trumpf’s light systems: 233-3171894-2, 233-319579-6,

233-3317878-0, 233-3373454-1, 233-3366253-6, 233-3366242-9, 233-

5540047-6, 233-5480395-1, 233-5480419-9.

6 The court understands this to be a fixed point joint around

which shafts/arms rotate.
Court No. 07-00316 Page 5

• ceiling mounts (Ex. C to McArver Aff.; McArver Aff. ¶ 4)

• a central axis with (1) extension arms, (2) suspension

arms, or (3) tracking arms (Ex. C to McArver Aff. See

also McArver Aff. ¶ 5)7

• spring (or “sprung”) arms (McArver Aff. ¶ 5; Helion

Surgical Light User Manual (“Helion”), Ex. B to McArver

Aff., 12; Xenion, Ex. B to McArver Aff., 12; Ex. C to

McArver Aff.)

• transformer(s) (McArver Aff. ¶ 6)8

• a control panel (Helion, Ex. B to McArver Aff., 12;

Xenion, Ex. B to McArver Aff., 12; McArver Aff. ¶ 5,) and

• for Helion lights, a switch box (McArver Aff. ¶ 9;

Helion, Ex. B to McArver Aff., 12.)

Some of the systems also include accessories such as cameras,

flat panel screens, and various electrical and electronic

components.9 (Compl. ¶ 6.) Trumpf imports the surgical light

systems in an unassembled condition. (Id. ¶ 7; McArver Aff. ¶ 10.) 

However, the systems themselves are complete, that is, they need no

additional parts in order to function. (Compl. ¶ 7; McArver Aff. ¶

7

 The number of extension or suspension arms depends upon

the number of surgical lights and/or flat panel displays included

in the system, as there is one suspension or extension arms per

surgical light or flat panel display. (McArver Aff. ¶ 8.)

8

 The system requires one transformer per surgical light.

(McArver Aff. ¶ 6.)

9

 Specific options available to customers include laser

guided focusing, which “simplifies the precise positioning of the

luminous field on very small areas” (Helion, Ex. B to McArver

Aff., 15; Xenion, Ex. B to McArver Aff., 14,) fittings for MedTV

camera systems (Helion, Ex. B to McArver Aff., 15; Xenion, Ex. B

to McArver Aff., 15,) external brightness controllers (Helion,

Ex. B to McArver Aff., 15,) and anti-drift systems. (Id.)
Court No. 07-00316 Page 6

10.) Indeed, the customer assembles the system

by simply screwing the surgical lights to the suspension

arms, screwing the suspension arms to the extension arms

and attaching the unit to the ceiling of an operating

room with a mounting bracket which is welded to the top

of the central axis.

(Pl.’s Stmt. ¶ 8. See also McArver Aff. ¶ 10.)

Trumpf normally manufactures these systems in accordance with

its customers’ specifications.10 (Pl.’s Stmt. ¶ 9; McArver Aff. ¶

7.) Moreover, Trumpf’s surgical lights “are specially manufactured

to have specific properties to provide the surgeon and the operating

team with optimal illumination in an operating theater[,]” that is,

“to provide a certain light intensity, low heat generation, control

of shadows and depth of focus.”11 (Pl.’s Stmt. ¶ 15 (citing McArver

Aff. ¶ 15; Moore Aff. ¶ 11; Stauffer Aff. ¶ 10; Grattan Aff. ¶ 10).) 

Regarding the trueness of light color, Trumpf claims to approximate

“daylight on a bright day” by using a color temperature of 4300 K

(Ex. A to McArver Aff. 5; Helion, Ex. B to McArver Aff., 27; Xenion,

Ex. B to McArver Aff., 25,) and a CRI of 93. (Helion, Ex. B to

10 Once the axis of the light is manufactured with the chosen

number of arms to accommodate the requested number of lights,

cameras, and flat panel displays, extra arms cannot be added,

even at time of assembly. (McArver Aff. ¶¶ 7-8, 11.) Moreover,

arms wired for surgical lights cannot be used as arms for cameras

or flat panel displays and vice versa. (McArver Aff. ¶ 8.)

Therefore, if a customer cancels its order, Trumpf cannot easily

resell its surgical lights. (McArver Aff. ¶ 12.)

11 Customers can also select light type, size, control type

(electronic or mechanical), camera and/or flat panel display,

axis type, and arm types. (McArver Aff. ¶ 7.) 
Court No. 07-00316 Page 7

McArver Aff., 27; Xenion, Ex. B to McArver Aff., 25.) Moreover,

users can adjust the luminous intensity, diameter of luminous field,

and position of luminous field. (Helion, Ex. B to McArver Aff., 18-

20; Xenion, Ex. B to McArver Aff., 17.) Finally, the lights are

equipped with a sterile handle.12 (Ex. A to McArver Aff. 5, 7;

Helion, Ex. B to McArver Aff., 24; Xenion, Ex. B to McArver Aff.,

18, 22-23.)

Trumpf sells its products only to hospitals and physicians and

only “for use in office surgical suites and clinics.” (McArver Aff.

¶ 13. See also Grattan Aff. ¶ 4; Moore Aff. ¶ 3; Stauffer Aff. ¶ 3;

Burgess Aff. ¶ 3.) Neither Trumpf nor its competitors sell their

lights to distributors or other sellers of home or commercial

lights.13 (McArver Aff. ¶ 13.) Purchasing agents with which

12 This handle is detachable in order to allow for cleaning

and disinfection. (Helion, Ex. B to McArver Aff., 24; Xenion, Ex.

B to McArver Aff., 18, 22-23.) 

13 The “normal” or “standard” practice in the industry to

sell surgical lights is as follows. (Burgess Aff. ¶ 9; Grattan

Aff. ¶ 11; Moore Aff. ¶ 9.) The sales consultant meets with the

hospital purchasing agent, the operating room business manager,

and the operating room manager. (Id. See also Grattan Aff. ¶¶ 10,

11; Moore Aff. ¶ 10; Stauffer Aff. ¶ 9.) These hospital

personnel discuss with the surgeons the preferred surgical light

specifications. (Burgess Aff. ¶ 9. See also Grattan Aff. ¶ 11;

Moore Aff. ¶ 10; Stauffer Aff. ¶ 9.) After receiving reports from

hospital personnel as to these specifications, Trumpf installs in

the operating suite a demonstration surgical light and surgeons,

for two weeks, use the lights in actual surgical procedures.

(Burgess Aff. ¶ 9. See also Grattan Aff. ¶¶ 10, 11; Moore Aff. ¶

10; Stauffer Aff. ¶ 9.) If the surgeons consider the light

satisfactory, the hospital personnel place an order with Trumpf

and Trumpf will install a completely new light system. (Burgess

Aff. ¶ 9. See also Grattan Aff. ¶¶ 10, 11; Moore Aff. ¶ 10;
Court No. 07-00316 Page 8

Trumpf’s sales staff interact “do not purchase lamps or lighting

fittings which provide illumination in an office setting.” (Grattan

Aff. ¶ 9; Moore Aff. ¶ 8; Stauffer Aff. ¶ 8. See also Burgess Aff.

¶ 8.) Trumpf and its competitors similarly do not describe their

surgical lights as “lamps” or “lighting fittings.” (Burgess Aff. ¶¶

5, 6. See also Grattan Aff. ¶ 7; Moore Aff. ¶¶ 5, 6; Stauffer Aff.

¶ 6.) Trumpf’s competitors consist of other manufacturers and

sellers of surgical light systems; Trumpf does not compete with

manufacturers, sellers, or wholesalers “of lamps and lighting

fittings used in a house or office building.” (Burgess Aff. ¶ 6. See

also Grattan Aff. ¶ 8; Moore Aff. ¶ 7; Stauffer Aff. ¶ 7.)

Trumpf has obtained approval for U.S. sale of its surgical

light systems from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”),

and Trumpf’s surgical lights meet the requirements of the Medical

Device Directive. (Burgess Aff. ¶ 4; Grattan Aff. ¶ 5; Moore Aff.

¶ 4; Stauffer Aff. ¶ 4. See also Helion, Ex. B to McArver Aff., 8;

Xenion, Ex. B to McArver Aff., 8.)14

II. Disputed Facts 

Although both parties claim there are no material facts at

issue, they present differing descriptions of the use of Trumpf’s

merchandise and of the composition of some specific entries at

Stauffer Aff. ¶ 9.)

14 It does not appear that traditional lamps used in homes or

office settings require FDA approval. (Moore Aff. ¶ 4.) 
Court No. 07-00316 Page 9

issue.

A. Use of Surgical Lights

Trumpf states that its surgical light systems “are used for

intra-operative diagnostic purposes as well as providing proper

illumination for a surgical procedure.” (Blessing Aff. ¶ 4; Cobbs

Aff. ¶ 4. See also Helion, Ex. B to McArver Aff., 8; Xenion, Ex. B

to McArver Aff., 8 (The lights are “intended for local illumination

of the part of the patient being examined or operated upon in a

hospital or in a doctor’s surgery.”).) The subject lights “allow

proper visualization intraoperatively of anatomic structures such

as nerves, arteries, veins, intestines, and other glandular

structures in order that vital structures are not unintentionally

injured.” (Blessing Aff. ¶ 4. See also Cobbs Aff. ¶ 4.)

The above-described use, Trumpf states, is the lights’ only

use. (Grattan Aff. ¶ 13 surgical light systems “are only used to

illuminate a portion of a patient’s body during surgery or for

diagnostic purposes... I have never seen or heard of [] surgical

light systems being used for another non-surgical related purpose”).

Accord Stauffer Aff. ¶ 11.) Manuals for Helion and Xenion lights

specifically state that the surgical lamps “may only be operated by

surgeons, doctors or specially[-]trained personnel” and “[a]ny other

use of the surgical light [besides the medical uses listed in the

manual] is regarded as improper use.” (Helion, Ex. B to McArver

Aff., 8; Xenion, Ex. B to McArver Aff., 8.) Moreover, health
Court No. 07-00316 Page 10

professionals consider Trumpf’s surgical lights as “surgical

appliance[s] or instrument[s]” and not as lamps or lighting

fittings. (See Burgess Aff. ¶ 5; Grattan Aff. ¶ 6; Moore Aff. ¶ 5;

Stauffer Aff. ¶ 5. See also Blessing Aff. ¶ 5 (“I consider a

surgical light as a diagnostic instrument or appliance.”). Accord

Cobbs Aff. ¶ 5.) Trumpf insists that a “standard lamp or lighting

fixture,” such as those “used in an office setting or a house,” are

not used for illumination during a surgical procedure. (See Blessing

Aff. ¶ 7; Cobbs Aff. ¶ 6.) 

The government does not agree that Trumpf’s lights are

specifically designed for diagnostic purposes. See HQ967747 (Mar.

21, 2006). Instead, the government describes Trumpf’s lights as

specialized spotlights. See id. (citing HQ 967159 (Nov. 17, 2004)). 

The government presents evidence that a surgical lighthead from

another company, STERIS Corp. (“STERIS”),15 has been used in art

15 STERIS manufactures surgical lights. Its lights are

called Harmony Surgical Lighting and Visualization System

(“HSLVS”).

The government classifies STERIS’s lights under HTSUS 9405. 

See HQ 967159 (Nov. 17, 2004). STERIS light include “1) a

central axis, composed of carbon steel, that allows the lights

and apparatus to move in circular motion around the patient to

assist the surgeon during the surgical process. 2) the spring

loaded arms, composed of carbon steel, that extend from the

central axis and allow for either the lights or equipment to be

mounted. 3) flat panel monitor adapters, composed of carbon

steel, that connect with a spring load arm to mount a flat LCD

monitor to the lighting system. 4) ceiling sets that allow for

the lighting system to be mounted into the ceiling and consist of

mounting components (nuts, bolts and clamp rings) to attach to

the ceiling; a carbon steel suspension tube to which the lighting

assembly is attached and which houses the system cables and
Court No. 07-00316 Page 11

conservation laboratories. (See Rosenfeld Decl. ¶8 (“[T]he type of

illumination provided by the STERIS lighthead is also desirable in

the art conservation environment.”).) According to the government,

the qualities of a STERIS lamp that provide illumination “that does

not distort color and high intensity without heat, are also

properties of lamps used in museum and art exhibition environments.”

(Id. at ¶9.) “[T]he ability to increase and decrease the pattern

size of illumination is a feature found in spotlights, including

theater spotlights and display spotlights used in museum and retail

stores.” (Id. at ¶4). 

Trumpf does not contest the qualities of a STERIS light or a

spotlight, but asserts that these qualities are not necessarily

those of a surgical light. Trumpf does not offer specific evidence

to this effect but nonetheless asserts that a STERIS light is not

mentioned as a surgical light in the affidavit, essentially relying

on the lack of the word “surgical light”. (Pl.’s Resp. to Def.’s

Additional Stmt. of Material Facts to which No Genuine Issue Exists

¶8.) Trumpf also notes that their light systems are not comparable

to STERIS lamp heads in that Trumpf’s surgical light systems are

only used in a surgical setting. See Pl.’s Resp. to Questions at 3.

B. Unassembled Surgical Light System

Trumpf describes some of the entries at issue as parts of its

wires; and a plastic ceiling hood or cover. 5) lighting heads of

carbon steel that provide the essential lighting function of the

HSLVS.” Id.
Court No. 07-00316 Page 12

surgical light systems. These entries are listed in Appendix B.16

The parties agree that the imports in these entries can be used

as part of surgical light systems.17 Moreover, there appears to be

no dispute as to the actual contents of the entries. However, the

parties do dispute whether the entries were entered as “‘complete,’

‘unassembled’” surgical light systems or discrete items also entered

for other potential uses. The government argues that Trumpf has not

presented evidence that the individual components are parts of

surgical light systems, (see Def.’s Resp. to Pl.’s Stmt. of Material

Fact Not in Dispute ¶4; Def.’s Additional Stmt. of Material Fact ¶3-

4 (claiming certain entries are not in fact complete “surgical light

systems.”)), noting that neither the entry papers nor the commercial

16 Trumpf has dropped its claims regarding Entry No. 233-

3185814-4. (See Pl.’s Resp. to Def.’s Additional Stmt. of

Material Fact as to which no Genuine Issue Exists ¶2.)

17Trumpf surgical light system components may include:

ceiling mounts, an axis to attach suspension arms which rotates

on a horizontal axis, the suspension arms, spring arms which move

on a vertical axis and attach to the suspension arms, mounts for

attaching a camera, mounts for attaching a flat panel monitor, a

flat panel monitor(s). (See Ex. C to McArver Aff., 2.) These

components in various configurations and including some or all of

the aforementioned parts are for the purposes of litigation

referred to as “pendants” by the parties. Trumpf surgical light

systems also may included: surgical lights with a support boom

and a universal joint for rotating on both a horizontal and

vertical axis. (See Ex. C to McArver Aff., 2.) Depending on the

configuration: transformers, a control panel, and switch boxes

may also be necessary for the surgical light system. (McArver

Aff. ¶9.) The actual surgical lights which are part of the

system consist of the light source (incandescent quartz bulb

containing xenon or halogen gas) and the housing. (McArver Aff.

¶¶ 3, 6.)
Court No. 07-00316 Page 13

invoices make reference to surgical light systems. (See Def’s Mem.

in Opp’n to Pl.’s Mot. for Summ. J and in Supp. of Def’s Cross-mot.

for Summ. J. 24. See also, e.g., Def.’s Resp. to Pl.’s Stmt. of

Material Facts not in Dispute ¶4.) Trumpf avers that the entries

listed in Appendix A contained components of their surgical light

systems. 

III. The Instant Litigation

Trumpf timely protested Customs’ classification of the

merchandise at issue, and Customs denied in part and granted in part

these protests. See HQ 967747 (Mar. 21, 2006). Having paid all

liquidated duties, Trumpf subsequently commenced this action on

August 28, 2007. 

Customs liquidated the merchandise under two types of headings.

See HQ 967747 (Mar. 21, 2006). First, Customs liquidated certain

of Trumpf’s entries under HTSUS 9033.0033,18 as parts and

accessories of “ceiling mounted equipment platforms know as ‘booms’

or ‘orbiters’ which are intended to be used in hospital operating

and recovery rooms, and intensive care environments.” (Id.) 

However, after protest by Trumpf, Customs reconsidered and entered

18“Parts and accessories (not specified or included elsewhere

in this chapter ) for machines, appliances, instruments or

apparatus of chapter 90.”
Court No. 07-00316 Page 14

these items under HTSUS 9402.90.00.20 as “medical furniture.”19

(Id.) Articles imported under Heading 9402.90.00.20 are duty free

and, as a result, Trumpf does not contest this classification. 

Second, HQ 967747 classified the surgical lamps under heading

9405.10.6020 as opposed to Heading 9018.90.60. In making this

determination, Customs relied heavily on an earlier ruling, HQ

967159, which addressed the classification of HSLVS lights, like the

STERIS lights, i.e., “overhead light used in surgical suites by

surgeons.” HQ 967159 (Nov. 17, 2004). Using identical language as

in HQ 967159, Customs in HQ 9967747 determined that the lights in

contention here were better classified under 9405 rather than 9018. 

Customs stated that:

Lamps which ‘are specially designed for diagnostic,

probing irradiation etc. purposes’ are included in

Heading 9018, HTSUS. However the instant HSLVS parts can

not be said to have been designed for a lamp used in

probing or irradiation. Lamps so designed are those that

are part of an instrument which probes the body, such as

an endoscope, which enables the clinician to see the

internal organ and take a cell sample so as to diagnose

a disease. Lamps used for irradiation are those which

employ radiation to reveal, most commonly, skin diseases.

See HQ 967747. 

Before Customs, Trumpf argued that its lights are used for

diagnostic purposes, namely that these lights have “certain

19These items were ceiling mounted booms and orbiters which

move on gas or electric power. The booms are set up to hold

shelving and receptacles “designed to accept and hold monitoring

devices.” See HQ 967747 (Mar. 21, 2006).
Court No. 07-00316 Page 15

temperature and lighting features which will not harm the patient

during a surgical procedure . . . [and] attachment of visualization

equipment during certain surgical procedures and a handle to

position it during surgery.” Id.;(see also Blessing Aff. ¶4.) The

government did not find Trumpf’s argument persuasive, stating: 

Precision overhead room lighting is necessary for the

surgeon to do his or her job. But the instant

merchandise is not used in direct contact or even in

close proximity with the patient for the sole benefit of

diagnosis of disease. While it is specialized lighting

to be sure, it is more akin to the explicitly excluded

spotlight of heading 9405, HTSUS, than it is to the

included lamps attached to endoscopes and the like, that

are used in intimate contact with the patient. 

HQ 967747. In response to Customs’ ruling, Trumpf brought the

instant action, contending that the surgical lights described are

better classified to under HTSUS 9018 rather than 9405. 

STANDARD OF REVIEW

The court’s review of Customs classification is twofold. “The

proper scope and meaning of a tariff classification term is a

question of law[,]... determining whether the goods at issue fall

within a particular tariff term as properly construed is a question

of fact.” Franklin v. United States, 289 F.3d 753, 757 (Fed. Cir.

2002)(citations omitted). 

In classification cases, genuine issues of material fact only

arise when there is a dispute over the use, characteristics, or

properties of the merchandise being classified, see Brother Int’l
Court No. 07-00316 Page 16

Corp. v. United States, 26 CIT 867, 869, 248 F.Supp.2d 1224, 1226

(2002), or where commercial meaning is in question. See Russell

Stadelman & Co. v. United States, 242 F.3d 1044, 1048 (Fed. Cir.

2001). This follows from the familiar summary judgment standard: 

summary judgment is appropriate “if the pleadings, discovery and

disclosure materials on file, and any affidavits show that there is

no genuine issue as to any material fact and that the movant is

entitled to judgement as a matter of law.” USCIT R. 56(c) (emphasis

added). Material issues only arise concerning “facts that might

affect the outcome of the suit under the governing law.” Anderson

v. Liberty Lobby, Inc., 477 U.S. 242, 248 (1986). 

On questions of law, a customs’ classification is subject to

de novo review as to the meaning of the tariff provision, pursuant

to 28 U.S.C. § 2640, but may be accorded a “respect proportional to

its ‘power to persuade.’” United States v. Mead Corp., 533 U.S. 218,

220 (2001) (quoting Skidmore v. Swift & Co., 323 U.S. 134, 140

(1944)). 

In interpreting and applying the HTSUS, the court looks to the

General Rules of Interpretation (“GRI”), as well as the Additional

United States Rules of Interpretation (“ARI”). See Orlando Food

Corp. v. United States, 140 F.3d 1437, 1439 (Fed Cir. 1998); Faus

Group Inc. V. United States, 28 CIT 1879, 358 F.Supp 2d. 1244, 1250

(2004). GRI (1) states that 

[F]or legal purposes, classification shall be determined

according to the terms of the headings and any relative
Court No. 07-00316 Page 17

section or chapter notes and, provided such headings or

notes do not otherwise require, according to the

following provisions.

GRI (1) is “intended to make it quite clear that the terms of the

headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes are paramount,

i.e., they are the first consideration in determining

classification.” 1 World Customs Org., Harmonized Commodity

Description & Coding Sys., Explanatory Notes 1 (3 ed. 2002)

(“Explanatory Notes”).20 Thus, interpretation of tariff headings,

and the court’s analysis, originate in the language of the Headings,

Subheadings, Section Notes and Chapter Notes of the relevant parts

of the HTSUS, in this case, Chapters 90, and 94.21

ANALYSIS

As noted above, the government contends that the Trumpf

lighting systems are to be classified under Heading 9405. (“Lamps

20 The Explanatory Notes are not “controlling legislative

history but nonetheless are intended to clarify the scope of

[the] HTSUS [] and to offer guidance” in the court’s

interpretation. Mita Copystar Am. v. United States, 21 F.3d

1079, 1082 (Fed. Cir. 1994).

21 Relevant to the entries in Appendix A, GRI (2) states that

an article may be entered in an unfinished state and still fall

under a particular heading. However, that article must have the

same “essential character” as the finished article. GRI (3)

Explanatory Note VIII provides: “The factor which determines

essential character will vary as between different kinds of

goods. It may, for example, be determined by the nature of the

material or component, its bulk, quantity, weight or value, or by

the role of a constituent material in relation to the use of the

goods.”
Court No. 07-00316 Page 18

and lighting fittings including searchlights and spotlights and

parts thereof, not elsewhere specified or included.”). But the

Explanatory Notes to chapter 94, subpart (II)(l) specifically

exclude from Heading 9405 “[m]edical diagnostic, probing,

irradiation, etc., lamps (Heading 90.18).” Id. 9405 (II)(l). Thus,

if Trumpf’s merchandise is properly classified under Heading 9018,

it cannot be classified under Heading 9405. Therefore, the court

will first consider the language of Heading 9018, and the Chapter

Notes thereto, to determine their application here.22

I. HTSUS Heading 901823 24

A. Merchandise Included in Heading 901825

22 The court notes that Heading 9018 is a “use” provision.

See ARI 1(“ In the absence of special language or context which

otherwise requires--

(a) a tariff classification controlled by use (other than actual

use) is to be determined in accordance with the use in the United

States at, or immediately prior to, the date of importation, of

goods of that class or kind to which the imported goods belong,

and the controlling use is the principal use . . .”)

23 Heading 9018 falls under Chapter 90: “optical,

photographic, cinematographic, measuring, checking, precision,

medical or surgical instruments and apparatus; parts and

accessories thereof.” 

24 The court notes that the language of the HTSUS for all

relevant years remains unchanged.

25 Merchandise under Chapter 90 also includes “parts and

accessories” of such “instruments and apparatus”; Chapter Note 2

instructs that “parts and accessories for machines, apparatus,

instruments or articles of [Chapter 90] are to be classified

according to the following rules”:

(a) Parts and accessories which are goods included in any of
Court No. 07-00316 Page 19

1. “Appliance” or “instrument”

The Chapter Notes to Heading 9018 do not define “appliance” or

“instrument,” though dictionaries use these terms somewhat

interchangeably. These dictionary definitions indicate that an

“appliance” constitutes a “device,[26] apparatus[27], or instrument

the headings of [Chapter 90] or of [C]hapter 84[] [or] 85

(other than headings 8485, 8548 or 9033) are in all cases to

be classified in their respective headings;

(b) Other parts and accessories, if suitable for use

solely or principally with a particular kind of

machine, instrument or apparatus, or with a number of

machines, instruments or apparatus of the same heading

(including a machine, instrument or apparatus of

heading 9010, 9103 or 9103) are to be classified with

the machines, instruments or apparatus of that kind;

(c) All other parts and accessories are to be

classified in heading 9033.

Moreover, components of a machine that work together to perform a

certain function are classified in the heading appropriate to

that function. See Chapter Note 3 (Incorporating by reference

Section XVI Note 4 (“Where a machine (including a combination of

machines) consists of individual components (whether separate or

interconnected by . . . by electric cables or by other devices)

intended to contribute together to a clearly defined function

covered by one of the headings in [Chapter 90], then the whole

falls to be classified in the heading appropriate to that

function.”)). See also Explanatory Notes Heading 9018 (“Subject

to the provisions of Notes 1 and 2 to [Chapter 90], parts and

accessories of apparatus or appliances of this heading remain

classified here.”).

26 A “device” is “[s]omething constructed or devised for a

particular purpose, [especially] a machine used to perform one or

more relatively simple tasks.” Webster’s II New Riverside

University Dictionary 370 (1988). 

A “machine” is “a device or system along with its source of

power and auxiliary equipment” or, more broadly, “[a] system,

[usually] of rigid bodies, constructed and connected to change,

transmit, and direct applied forces in a predetermined way to
Court No. 07-00316 Page 20

for performing or facilitating the performance of a particular

function.” Dorland’s Illustrated Medical Dictionary 116 (27th ed.

1988). See also 1 Oxford English Dictionary 575 (“[A] thing applied

as a means to an end” or an “apparatus”); Academic Press Dictionary

of Science and Techonology 140 (“[I]n general, any tool or machine

that is used to carry out a specific task or produce a desired

result.”). Similarly, an “instrument” is “any tool, appliance, or

apparatus.” Dorland’s Illustrated Medical Dictionary 842. See also

7 Oxford English Dictionary 1050 (“a tool[] or implement”28);

Webster’s Third New International Dictionary 1172 (2002) (A

“utensil”29 or a surgical “implement”); Academic Press Dictionary of

Science and Technology 1117 (“[A] mechanical tool or device,

especially one designed for precise operations”); Webster’s II New

Riverside University Dictionary 633 (“A means by which something is

accomplished”). These definitions are broad in nature. An

accomplish a particular objective, as performance of useful

work.” Id. 712. See also Academic Press Dictionary of Science

and Technology 1289 (a machine is “any device that transmits or

modifies energy...[or is] an assembly of interrelated parts, each

with a definite motion and separate function; used to perform a

specific task.”)

27 An “apparatus” is a “machine” or “group of machines used

together or in succession to accomplish a task.” Webster’s II New

Riverside University Dictionary 118.

28 The term “implement” includes “tool[s], utensil[s], or

instrument[s] for doing a task.” Webster’s II New Riverside

University Dictionary 614.

29 A “utensil” is “[a]ny useful tool . . . .” Webster’s II

New Riverside University Dictionary 1272.
Court No. 07-00316 Page 21

appliance, device or machine, need only accomplish one “simple task”

or serve a “particular function” in providing “useful work.”30

Trumpf’s light systems qualify under the broad common meaning

of these terms because the light systems perform a specific task.

2. Professional Use

The Explanatory Notes instruct that Heading 9018 covers a “wide

range of instruments and appliances which in [the] vast majority of

cases are used only in professional practice.” Explanatory Notes

9018 (emphasis added). For example, the Heading includes articles

used by doctors, surgeons, and dentists “either to make a diagnosis,

to prevent or treat an illness or to operate.” Id.31 As stated

above, Trumpf claims that its surgical light systems have but “one

commercial use and that is assisting surgeons during an operation

in an operating theater.” (Compl. ¶ 8). 

Arguing to the contrary, the government states that STERIS

lightheads, though another brand of surgical lightheads, are used

in art conservatories. Through the affidavit of a lighting

designer, the government claims that the use of a STERIS lighthead

30 Further, in our case law, “there is no ‘judicial

determination’ of what a machine is. It remains simply a question

of common meaning . . . .” Victoria Distributors, Inc. v. United

States 56 Cust.Ct. 284, 288, 1966 WL 9504 (1966). 

31 Heading 9018 will also cover a number of medical tools,

such as “hammers, mallets, saws . . . or articles of cutlery

(scissors, knives, shears etc.) . . . only when they are clearly

identifiable as being for medical or surgical.” Id. 
Court No. 07-00316 Page 22

in an art conservatory confirms that these types of light systems

are used in forums outside of the medical industry. See Rosenfeld

Decl. 

To the court, however, even assuming that a lighthead similar

to Trumpf’s has another potential use, the Explanatory Notes for

Heading 9018 provide some flexibility. The phrase “in the vast

majority of cases” indicates an understanding that a single example

of an appliance used outside of the medical profession does not

preclude coverage under this heading.

While the parties do not agree that Trumpf’s surgical light

systems are used solely for medical and surgical purposes, all of

the evidence submitted indicates that the light systems’ design is

still “clearly identifiable” as for medical use; moreover, there is

no dispute that these lights are commonly seen only in the medical

setting. See Pl.’s Resp. To Questions Exhibit A. Accordingly, the

court cannot conclude that the government has raised a material

issue of fact on the issue of professional use.

3. “Diagnostic”

Of particular significance here, the Explanatory Notes state

that Heading 9018 includes “[l]amps which are specially designed for

diagnostic, probing, irradiation etc. purposes.” Id. (I)(R)

(emphasis added).32 The parties dispute the meaning of the term

32 Torches such as those in the shape of a pen are excluded

(heading 85.13) as are other lamps which are not clearly

identifiable as being for medical or surgical use (heading
Court No. 07-00316 Page 23

“diagnostic,” and whether the illumination33 that Trumpf’s surgical

light systems provide constitutes a “diagnostic purpose.” 

Unsurprisingly, “diagnostic” denotes “relating to or based on

a diagnosis.” Academic Press Dictionary of Science and

Technology 625. “Diagnosis” specifically means “the identification

of a disease or condition on the basis of its signs and symptoms.”

Id. In medical terms, “diagnostic” “pertain[s] to or subserv[es]

diagnosis; [or is] distinctive of or serving as a criterion of a

disease, as signs and symptoms.” Dorland’s Illustrated Medical

Dictionary 461. Thus, a light system that is configured in such a

way as to assist a health professional to detect the “signs and

symptoms” of a condition or disease has a diagnostic use. 

In its classification ruling, Customs stated that because

Trumpf’s surgical lights do not come in “direct contact...or []

close proximity with the patient for the sole benefit of diagnosis

of disease” HQ 967747 (Mar. 21, 2006), they cannot be defined as

a diagnostic tool. Trumpf claims that this idea of proximity is not

necessary to assist a physician in diagnosis. In addition, Trumpf

claims that the lights are within “several feet” of the patient

94.05). Id. (I)(R) 

33 Both parties agree that Trump’s surgical lights provide

illumination (See Def.’s Resp. to Pl.’s Stmt. of Material Facts

not in Dispute ¶10; Def.’s Resp. to Questions at 4; Pl.’s Mem. at

10; Cobbs ¶ 4; Blessing ¶ 4; 21 C.F.R. § 878.4580 (citing the

Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”)).
Court No. 07-00316 Page 24

during operations and are thus in close proximity to the patient. 

Trumpf further claims that surgery is often required for diagnosis,

and that the surgical lights assist in examination, probing and

observation of a patient. (Pl.’s Mem. At 22-23). 

The notion of spacial proximity is not included in the

definition of “diagnostic,” the meaning of which turns upon the role

the instrument plays in assisting a physician to identify and

determine diseases and conditions. Surgical lighting is, of course,

not the only factor in diagnosis. When a variety of diagnostic

tools are required, lighting may not even be the main tool used in

a diagnosis. However, a surgical light does assist in diagnosis by

providing proper and specific illumination, without which operations

and exploration into a patient’s condition would be extremely

difficult. 

Rules of statutory interpretation support this view.

Specifically, under the rule of noscitur a sociis, if the language

of a statute is ambiguous, “the meaning of an unclear word or phrase

should be determined by the words immediately surrounding it.”

Black’s Law Dictionary (9th ed. 2009) 1160-61; See also X-Acto

Crescent Products Co., Inc. v. United States 27 Cust. Ct. 190, 190-

191, Not Reported in F.Supp., WL 6228 (1951). Therefore, the

meanings of the words “probing” and “irradiation” should shed light

upon the meaning of “diagnostic,” and provide clues about what may

be included in the “etc.” in this list. 
Court No. 07-00316 Page 25

“Probing” is “exploring or searching with the aid of a probe.”

Webster’s II New Riverside University Dictionary 937; medically, a

probe is a “slender, flexible instrument designed for introduction

into a wound, cavity or sinus tract for purposes of exploration.”

Dorland’s Illustrated Medical Dictionary 1355. Further, to

“irradiate” is “[t]o send forth in a way analogous to the emission

of light.” Webster’s II New Riverside University Dictionary 644. In

medical terms, “irradiation” is “treatment by photons, electrons,

neutrons, or other ionizing radiations...the application of rays,

such as ultraviolet rays, to a substance to increase its vitamin

efficiency” Dorland’s Illustrated Medical Dictionary 856. 

It follows that the act of irradiation is similar to

illumination in that, in both cases, rays are emitted. Even though

irradiation provides treatment for a patient, proper illumination

assists a doctor to explore a field (similar to a probe), in order

to diagnose a disease or condition. Thus, in context, the term

diagnostic is broad enough to include Trumpf’s surgical lighting

systems. 

Because the Defendant presents no evidence to dispute Trumpf’s

evidence that its surgical light’s “chief use” is “as an aid to

physicians in identifying a disease or illness from its signs and

symptoms” Instrumentation Associates, Inc. v. United States 58

Cust.Ct. 471, 479, 269 F.Supp. 777, 783 (Cust.Ct. 1967), the light

systems can be considered a diagnostic tool.
Court No. 07-00316 Page 26

CONCLUSION

For the foregoing reasons, the court concludes that Plaintiff’s

entries of complete surgical light systems are correctly classified

under HTSUS 9018.90.60 and not under Heading 9405.10.6020, as

classified by Customs. The parties are directed to review the

descriptions and components of the entries identified in Appendix

B and to determine how these entries should be classified consistent

with this Opinion. A draft judgment shall be submitted by November

29, 2010, provided that if the parties cannot agree to the terms of

said judgment, they shall submit statements of their positions with

regard to all of the entries at issue. 

It is SO ORDERED

 /s/ Donald C. Pogue

Donald C. Pogue, Judge

Dated: October 27, 2010

 New York, New York
Court No. 07-00316 Page 27

APPENDIX A

Characteristics of surgical light systems:

1. High Illumination/Brightness

Illumination is “the act of adding light to a surface” (Ex. B

to Pl.’s Mot. Summ. J. 6) and is measured, internationally, in

“lux.”34 (Id.) Industry standards35 dictate that surgical lights

should produce a minimum illuminance of 100,000 lux or 100 klux.

(Ex. A to Pl.’s Mot. Summ. J. 2. Accord Ex. B to Pl.’s Mot. Summ.

J. 6.) Peak central illuminance should not exceed 160 klux, as this

light level will cause glare and increase irradiation. (Ex. A to

Pl.’s Mot. Summ. J. 8. Accord Ex. B to Pl.’s Mot. Summ. J. 12.) 

Illumination from a surgical light must be consistent (Ex. B to

Pl.’s Mot. Summ. J. 10,) intense, and uniform. (Ex. A to Pl.’s Mot.

Summ. J. 2.)

2. Color Rendition of Tissue

A surgical light must carefully calibrate the color of the

emitted light such that surgeons are able to view, in true color,

tissue, organs, and skin. The emitted light must be as close to

34 One lux is “equal to the illumination of a surface all of

which is one metre from a uniform point source of light of unit

intensity . . . .” 9 Oxford English Dictionary (2nd 1989) 127.

35 Industry standards come from Illuminating Engineering

Society and the International Electrotechnical Commission. (Ex. B

to Pl.’s Mot. Summ. J. 11-12.) The U.S. Food and Drug

Administration (“FDA”) mandates that companies must follow either

of these guidelines. (Id. 11.)
Court No. 07-00316 Page 28

white as possible, mimicking that of noon sunlight. (Ex. B to Pl.’s

Mot. Summ. J. 7. See also Ex. A to Pl.’s Mot. Summ. J. 2.) One way

of ensuring faithful color is to manipulate color temperature.36

Color temperature is measured in degrees of Kelvin. (Ex. B to Pl.’s

Mot. Summ. J. 7.) According to industry standards, color

temperature should range from 3500 to 6700 Kelvin; surgeons prefer

a color temperature of approximately 4500 Kelvin. (Id.) 

Another measure of true color uses the Color Rendering Index

(“CRI”). (Ex. A to Pl.’s Mot. Summ. J. 7.) The CRI “measures the

effect of the light on the color appearance of the objects being

seen.” (Ex. B to Pl.’s Mot. Summ. J. 9.) CRI values anywhere from

85% to 100% are acceptable. (Ex. A to Pl.’s Mot. Summ. J. 7.) A

surgical light rating of 94% is considered “good.” (Ex. B to Pl.’s

Mot. Summ. J. 9.) As a comparison, florescent lights have a CRI of

around 70%. (Ex. A to Pl.’s Mot. Summ. J. 7.)

3. Light Field Diameter

The light pattern37 diameter of the light field is also

36 If the color temperature is too low, emitted light appears

pink or red, whereas if the color temperature is too high,

emitted light appears blue. (Ex. A to Pl.’s Mot. Summ. J. 2; Ex.

B to Pl.’s Mot. Summ. J. 7.) The surgical light color

temperature should fall between these two hues. (Ex. A to Pl.’s

Mot. Summ. J. 2; Ex. B to Pl.’s Mot. Summ. J. 7.)

37 The light pattern is “an area in which the level of

illumination tapers from the center to the periphery so that

illumination at the edge is no less than 20% of that at the

center.” (Ex. B to Pl.’s Mot. Summ. J. 13.)
Court No. 07-00316 Page 29

important; if the diameter is too large, glare can be a problem,

but, if a surgeon needs diffuse light, a small diameter can also

pose problems. (Id. 3.) The light field must be large enough to

illuminate the particular surgery involved. (See id. 7.) Given the

diversity of types of surgeries, surgical lights should allow for

adjustment of the light pattern size. (Id. 3.) In any event,

industry standards dictate that the light pattern diameter should

not be smaller than eight inches. (Ex. B to Pl.’s Mot. Summ. J. 13.)

4. Shadow Reduction

In order to ensure optimal illumination of the surgical site,

the light must minimize contrast shadows.38 (Ex. A to Pl.’s Mot.

Summ. J. 2.) The light, therefore, must have the ability to beam

light around obstacles located between the light and the wound. (Ex.

B to Pl.’s Mot. Summ. J. 9.) The light’s design can involve

lighthead diameter,39 the number of lighthead lamps, the type of

lens, or the type of refraction system. (Id.)

5. Limited Heat/Irradiance

While providing for optimal lighting, a surgical light must

38 Contrast shadows “result from obstructions cast by hands

or instruments” whereas contour shadows “help the surgeon

differentiate between fine tissue striations and vasculature.”

(Ex. A to Pl.’s Mot. Summ. J. 2.) Thus, a good surgical light

must limit contrast shadows but maintain contour shadows. (Id.)

39 The larger the lighthead diameter, the better the shadow

control.
Court No. 07-00316 Page 30

nonetheless limit its radiated energy, or its irradiance. (Id. 8;

Ex. A to Pl.’s Mot. Summ. J. 7.) This is because heat will both

dessicate tissue and make the surgical team uncomfortable. (Ex. A

to Pl.’s Mot. Summ. J. 2-3.) Unfortunately, irradiance increases

with increased illumination. (See Ex. B to Pl.’s Mot. Summ. J. 8.) 

For this reason, many surgical lights attempt to limit heat emission

by using light filters, lenses, reflectors, reflector coatings, and

sealed light designs (id. 11,) and/or by designing the light in such

a way that it releases the heat behind the lighthead, (id. 8-9.) 

6. Depth of Illumination40

A surgical light must provide sufficient depth of field, that

is, sufficient range of illumination in order to reach tissue on

surgery tables located a certain distance away from the light. (Ex.

A to Pl.’s Mot. Summ. J. 8. See also Ex. B to Pl.’s Mot. Summ. J.

9 (“depth of field . . . indicates the length of the range within

the focused, usable light that is projected”).) Depth of field is

measured as “the depth below the one-metre level reference point at

which the central illumination falls to 20% of its initial value.”

(Ex. A to Pl.’s Mot. Summ. J. 8.) Ideally, the light should be

positioned such that the surgical site is within the light’s focal

length, that is, positioned so that “the area where the [light]

40 In the literature before the court regarding surgical

lights, depth of illumination is sometimes also referred to as

depth of field, focal length, or depth of focus. (Ex. B to Pl.’s

Mot. Summ. J. 9; McArver Aff. ¶ 15.)
Court No. 07-00316 Page 31

pattern is at its brightest and most focused” shines on the surgical

cavity. (Ex. B to Pl.’s Mot. Summ. J. 9.)

7. Other Factors

Other factors hospitals consider when purchasing surgical lamps

include: abilities to “transfer video signal and power to multiple

flat panel monitors,” “incorporate video camera systems,” and

“integrate into endoscopic automation systems”; conventional

illumination of the operating room; “flexibility” and

“maneuverability”; stability –- that is, the light will not drift

away; sterile control; and ease of cleaning. (Id. 9-10.)
Court No. 07-00316 Page 32

APPENDIX B

1. Entry No. 233-3416935-8

Trumpf describes this entry as containing “70 examination lights,

Helion ® S light[s] specially configured to mount on TRUMPF’s

critical care nursing booms.” (McArver Aff. Dated June 2, 2010

¶3.)41 Trumpf further contends that these are “examination lights”

used for “medical diagnostic uses.” Pl.’s Resp. to Questions at 4). 

Defendant contests that these lights are imported for use with the

booms, not the surgical light systems, and that Plaintiff should not

now be able to bring an action for lights not part of the surgical

light systems at issue. Def.’s Resp. to Questions at 7.

2. Entry No. 233-3302102-2

Trumpf’s evidence states that “Entry [No.] []233-3302102-2

contain[ed] seven flat panel display mounts on separate pendants.” 

(McAver Aff. Dated June 2, 2010 ¶3-f.) The commercial invoice

number for this entry provides an identical description. (Id. ¶2-3

(Invoice, Ex. F to McArver Aff. Dated June 2, 2010, 28.))42 The

41 The government asserts that this entry simply included

light bulbs. (See Def.’s Resp. to Pl.’s Stmt. of Material Facts

not in Dispute ¶4.) 

42 See also McAver Aff. Dated June 2, 2010 ¶2 (“There are no

price lists which identify the components contained in each of

TRUMPF’s surgical light products contained in these entries.”).) 

The court interprets Trumpf to claim that all products mentioned

in the affidavit are part of surgical light systems and therefore
Court No. 07-00316 Page 33

government asserts that this entry simply contained pendants and

flat panel mounts. (Def.’s Resp. to Pl.’s Stmt. of Material Facts

not in Dispute ¶4.) According to the government, “pendants” are

suspension systems which are suspended from the ceiling with display

monitors and no lights[.]” (See id.)

3. Entry No. 233-3257991-3

Trumpf describes the contents of Entry No. 233-3257991-3 as; “three

flat panel display mounts on separate pendants” or three systems of

Helion® L+/L lights with flat panel mounts. (McArver Aff. Dated June

2, 2010 ¶3-d.) The government argues that these entries simply

contained pendants with flat panel display mounts and “several

numerous articles not identified as being components of complete

unassembled surgical lights.” (Def’s Resp. to Pl’s Stmt. of Material

Facts not in Dispute ¶4.)43

4. Entry No. 233-5554827-4 

The government asserts that Entry No. 233-5554827-4 contained flat

panel mounts with separate pendant systems that are suspended from

the ceiling, with neither lights nor display monitors. (Def’s Resp.

to Pl’s Stmt. of Material Facts not in Dispute ¶4.) The government

claims that these articles are not part of Trumpf’s surgical

do not have their own price lists as separate parts.

43 The invoices also appear to suggest a difference in size

and a difference between flat panel display mounts and flat panel

displays.
Court No. 07-00316 Page 34

lighting system. (Def’s Resp. to Questions at 7). Trumpf states that

this entry contains “six surgical light systems and six flat panel

display mounts on separate pendants” (Pl.’s Resp. to Questions at

4), as well as “six flat panel mounts on separate pendants.” (Id.

at 5.) The entry also includes eighteen transformers for use with

Xenion® L/L lights. 

5. Entry No. 233-3302107-1

Plaintiff claims that Entry No. 233-3302-107-1 contained two Helion®

systems and two flat panel display mounts. (McArver Aff. Dated June

2, 2010 ¶3-e.) According to Trumpf, the systems consisted of

pendants and surgical lights in two configurations. (Id.) One

configuration is a Helion® L+ “with a flat panel display and

including the transformer boxes and control units.” (Id.) The other

is a “Helion® M+ light system with a flat panel display and

including the transformer boxes and control units.” (Id.) The

entry also included “two flat panel display mounts on separate

pendants.” (Id.)

6. Entry No. 233-3247748-0

Plaintiffs cite invoices indicating that this entry contained “12

individual systems with Xenion® L/L lights, handles, identified as

‘side rails,’ wall controls and transformers.” (Id. ¶3-g.) The

pendants and the surgical lights were also included. (Id.) “In

addition, this entry also contain[ed] 12 flat panel display mounts
Court No. 07-00316 Page 35

on separate pendants, which are identified on the commercial

invoice.” (Id.)

7. Entry No. 233-3317874-9

Entry No. 233-3317874-9 “contain[ed] eight systems with Helion® L+

lights, their transformers and controls.” (Id. at ¶3-h.) The

systems included the pendants and the lights. (Id.) The entry,

moreover, “contain[ed] eight flat panel display mounts on separate

pendants.” (Id.) The government claims that this entry contained no

lights (Def’s Resp. to Questions at 7). Trumpf contends “that

these components constitute surgical light systems.” (Pl.’s Resp. 

to Questions at 6).

8. Entry No. 233-5510440-9 

Trumpf asserts that Entry No. 233-5510440-9 consisted of pendants,

surgical lights, and a “flat panel mount on a separate pendant.”

(McArver Aff Dated June 2, 2010 ¶3-c.) Specifically, the imported

systems in this entry contained “two Xenion lights: Xenion® L/

Xenion® M+.” (Id.) This entry also included transformers used with

the Xenion® L/ Xenion® M+ light systems. (Id.) The government again

contends that this entry “contain[ed] several [] articles not

identified as being the components of the complete unassembled

surgical lights system contained in the entry.” (Def’s Resp. to

Pl.’s Statement of Material Fact Not in Dispute ¶4.)
ERRATA

Slip Op. 10-123, issued October 27, 2010

Trumpf Medical Systems, Inc. v. United States

Footnote 33, page 23 - “Trump’s” should be “Trumpf’s”