Appeal 2007-1326
Application 10/237,067
1 from layout control of a controlled unit due to derailment or human
2 intervention.” (Ireland, col. 3, l. 63 - col. 4, l. 7).
3 05. Thus, as found by the Examiner, Ireland discloses a model train
4 system including train communication circuit that is configured for bi-
5 directional communications to generate and transmit feedback
6 information by sending state information back from the train. Ireland
7 shows that such train configuration for providing feedback information
8 permits new capabilities - such as wheel synchronized chuffing sounds
9 of a steam locomotive generated by an external sound system which is
10 part of the track interface unit, and a function that is created to detect and
11 alert a placement or removal of a train unit on the layout. The
12 Appellants do not dispute these findings.
13 Young
14 06. Young is directed toward a controller for model trains on a train track
15 that “transmits control signals between a rail of the track and earth
16 ground, generating an electromagnetic field which extends for several
17 inches around the track. A receiver in the locomotive can then pick up
18 signals from this electromagnetic field.” (Young, col. 1, ll. 60-66).
19 07. Young describes the benefits of its invention as eliminating “the need
20 for control signals to be picked up by electrical contact with the tracks,
21 thus eliminating noise and connection problems. In addition, by using
22 an electromagnetic field only along the track, the extent of the field
23 generated is limited, thus limiting the power required to generate the
24 field and avoiding transmitter licensing requirements. The
25 electromagnetic field can be concentrated by this method to where the
12
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