Ex Parte VAN DEN BERGH - Page 6




          Appeal No. 2003-0485                                                        
          Application 08/767,249                                                      


          72) differ considerably in size, i.e, with section (72) being               
          much larger in area than section (70).  Thus, when the surface              
          areas of sections (70) and (80) are added together and the                  
          surface areas of sections (72) and (78) are added together, it is           
          clear that (70, 80) has a smaller surface area than (72, 78).               


          As for the requirement in claim 18 that the upper section                   
          have a surface area equal to that of the two subsequent sections,           
          we agree with appellant that it is rank speculation on the                  
          examiner’s part to conclude that upper section (80) of Fabel has            
          a surface area equal to that of sections (70, 72).  Given the               
          sizing of these portions of the mailing form (10) of Fabel as               
          seen in Figures 1, 5 and 6 of the patent, it is highly unlikely             
          that such a relationship exists.                                            


          In light of the foregoing, it is clear to us that the                       
          examiner’s assertions (findings) in the last paragraph on page 4            
          of the answer are entirely without foundation and contrary to the           
          teachings of Fabel.  Accordingly, we will not sustain the                   
          examiner’s rejection of claims 18 and 26 under 35 U.S.C. § 102(e)           
          as being anticipated by Fabel.                                              


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