This particular case doesn't seem to be about patents, rather design and know-how, i.e. the kind of IP not very well protected by law. It is a little ridiculou

This particular case doesn't seem to be about patents, rather design and know-how, i.e. the kind of IP not very well protected by law. It is a little ridiculous as you say, but the fact that a company was obviously involved in attempts at industrial espionage makes it kind of serious.