It is my understanding these dates are provided as the "end game" in other words the farthest out to allow all possiblilities to take place. RP does not expect these dates to hold firm and in fact thinks/knows?? events will transpire much sooner. Markman hearings can happen any time both parties agree and the court calander has an opening.

This is like buying a car on credit. You only want a 36 month loan because you know you will pay it off in that time frame, However you take a 60 months loan to allow for contingencies or emergency needs for the funds but pay it off in 36 months while having the ability to take longer.

My take from RP is he "in no way" feels these legalities will take that long.