Appeal No. 96-1881
Application No. 08/095,476
sizes and shapes, (2) that all of the chambers in the cushions
can be simultaneously inflated through a single opening
communicating with separate inlet passageways for the chambers,
and (3) that this is done by a device which first directs air
from a nozzle through the opening and into the chambers, and then
seals the ends of the inlet passageways in a small area around
the opening to provide an inflated and sealed air cushion. 5
Thus, Casey falls at least into the latter category of the
Wood test, and logically would have commended itself to an
artisan's attention in considering the appellant's problem.
Thus, we conclude that Casey is analogous art.
Contrary to the appellant's argument (brief, pp. 13-15 and
18-19), we find that Casey does disclose isolated chambers and
thus does provide the suggestion for modifying Bolla in the
manner set forth by the examiner. Figures 7-9 of Casey show the
sequence of inflating the chambers 26 and sealing the passageways
28. Specifically, Figure 7 is an enlarged fragmentary view,
partially in section of an inflation station illustrating a
cushion positioned about an inflating nozzle therein; Figure 8 is
an enlarged fragmentary view, partially in section of the nozzle
5See column 1, lines 47-57, of Casey.
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