I too agree with Paul's conclusions (Thanks Paul - good digging!).  Do you think this happenstance will have any influence on the Judge (at least a raise of the eyebrows)? 

"Mr. NEC Electronics America, major segments of your corporation have settled their dispute in this matter via monetary compensation. Now you stand before me and suggest that the patents in dispute are not valid? Please advise as to why, considering your position and influence on the overall corporation, others under the NEC umbrella are not following your lead."

I don't mean to try and second guess the reaction of the court, or maybe I am....  It just appears so strange, and something that wouldn't go unnoticed.

Perhaps I'm considering things that don't really matter. It could easily be the case that we were able to agree on a number ($) with the other segments of NEC, and are still in negotiations towards finding an acceptable number with NEC E America for a settlement with them. Then the above "issue" (probable Court perceptions) evaporates. IMO, this is the expanation that makes the most sense (as I tend toward seeking logical explanations - to my peril!).

I obviously KNOW nuttin'!

SGE