Good question..... I would think if a judge to put a stamp on it, there would be a chance of an overrule down the road. This 10 year contract is the best route.....
Valid question, but doesn't a settlement take it out of the courts hand? Therefore, the court can't rule the IP confirmed...only ruling the settlement is good between the parties regarding the disputed patents. I would think the USPTO upholding and this settlement alone should tell the market that its confirmed though.