Appeal No. 2003-1529
Application No. 08/499,442
relative amounts of the conventional [alumina] and sieve material
giving optimum results consistent with cost.” Col. 2, ll. 20-22.
Therefore Matyear has taught that the relative amounts of alumina
and molecular sieve are result-effective variables and their
optimization would have been well within the ordinary skill in the
art. See In re Woodruff, supra; In re Boesch, 617 F.2d 272, 276,
205 USPQ 215, 219 (CCPA 1980); In re Antonie, 559 F.2d 618, 620,
195 USPQ 6, 8-9 (CCPA 1977); In re Sebek, 465 F.2d 904, 907, 175
USPQ 93, 95 (CCPA 1972); and In re Aller, 220 F.2d 454, 456, 105
USPQ 233, 235 (CCPA 1955).
We adopt our remarks from above concerning the Q values for
the equilibrium zone relative to the entire vessel. We also adopt
our remarks about the specific arguments concerning the dependent
claims from above, including claims 6 and 8 (Brief, page 14). With
regard to claim 24 (Brief, page 15), we adopt our remarks from
above and note that Matyear is directed to the drying of gases in
general (col. 1, l. 15; col. 1, ll. 59-62; and especially col. 4,
ll. 3-5).
For the foregoing reasons and those stated in the Answer, we
determine that the examiner has established a prima facie case of
obviousness based on the reference evidence. Based on the totality
of the record, including due consideration of appellant’s
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