Appeal No. 1999-0369
Application No. 08/575,926
surface 40 by the elastic gathering action of the
spacing elastic members 77; a channel 96 thereby
being formed by at least the first proximal edge 64,
the first distal edge 66 and the inboard surface 68
of the first barrier cuff 62. The channel 96 is
shown as being open and ready to restrain, contain
and hold body exudates until the diaper 20 is
removed from the wearer. [Column 4, line 59 through
column 5, line 8; emphasis added.]
Concerning the second barrier cuffs 262 disposed adjacent
the end edges of the absorbent article, Figure 3 does not
illustrate the tunnel of these cuffs as being provided with
spacing means. However, Foreman explains that such a
construction is contemplated. Specifically, Foreman states:
A spacing means 76 such as a spacing elastic member
77 is preferably not disposed in the second barrier
cuff 262 because the gathering action of the spacing
elastic members 77 along the first distal edge 66
raises both the first and the second distal edge
above the liquid-receiving surface 40 to form a
channel 96; however, in alternative embodiments such
a construction is contemplated. [Column 5, lines
61-68; emphasis added.]
Thus, the examiner considers, and appellants do not
dispute, that Foreman discloses an unillustrated embodiment
wherein the second barrier cuffs 262 are provided with spacing
means like those provided in the first barrier cuffs 62. It
5
Page: Previous 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 Next
Last modified: November 3, 2007