Appeal No. 97-4242
Application 08/451,281
different body portions such as areas adjoining the crotch,
neck, and shoulders (column 1, lines 41 through 51).
In light of the above-noted Hoagland disclosure, we find
ourselves in accord with the examiner’s understanding that the
content of claim 1 is anticipated by the Hoagland teaching.
With the suit about a wearer, and with a suitable safety
line attached thereto, it is apparent to us that the strap
assembly in the safety suit of Hoagland would be quite capable
of automatically adjusting to a fall-protect position should
the wearer fall. Further, it is evident to us that in the
second position, the strap assembly of Hoagland, that is
specifically intended to effect firm embracing support of a
person’s upper
torso portion would, with a falling wearer, distribute fall-
arresting forces to shoulders and vertically along the chest
of the wearer. In light of the above, in particular, we
conclude that the subject matter of claim 1 is anticipated by
the Hoagland patent.
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