Appeal No. 96-1087
Application 08/068,700
concerning the claimed spark plug. Takamura also discloses an intermediate layer to
reduce thermal stresses between the electrode and noble chip. (Col. 5, lines 43-53).
Takamura does not disclose that the composition of the noble metal chip as 90-100%
platinum and 0-10% Iridium. Furthermore, Takamura does not disclose the length of the
narrowed portion to be in the range of 0.8-1.5 mm as set forth in the language of claim 1.
Takamura discloses examples with various diameters of the narrowed portion within the
claimed range and thicknesses of the noble chip, having compositions having a higher
percentage of Iridium , which are within the claimed range.
Kagawa discloses the use of a 90% Platinum/10% Iridium ratio for the chip
composition, but does not disclose details beyond its bonding and gap dimensions.
Kagawa further discloses a specific chip thickness of 0.4 mm for a comparison testing to
determine gaps produced from thermal variations. (Col. 4, line 31). Kagawa does not
disclose any values of the dimensions of the spark plug or the chip beyond the thickness
range of 0.1 to 1.0. (Col. 2, line 41).
The Examiner sets forth the motivation to combine the separate teachings as being
within the same field of endeavor. (Answer at page 4, paragraph 1). We agree.
The Examiner has stated that the interrelationship of the values of the length of the
narrowed portion, the thickness of the chip and the diameter of the narrowed portion of the
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