Appeal No. 96-3614
Application 08/259,154
the electrically conductive substrate via an insulating
film as shown by Schwarz et al[.] since such an
arrangement would
have effectively dissipated any electrostatic charge
buildups and reduced leakage current released to the head-
recording medium interface. [Answer at 10.]
The examiner's characterization of Schwarz as teaching "an
equipotential established between the magnetic film and the
electrically conductive substrate via an insulating film"
(our emphasis) is not understood. As noted above, Schwarz
explains that the direct contact magnetic layer 14 makes with
flyer body (i.e., substrate) 9 through hole 22 in substrate-
insulating layer 15 creates an ohmic contact between the
substrate and the lower magnetic pole (col. 4, lines 46-50). 2
However, even without the benefit of this teaching it is
apparent that because Diepers's magnet leg 7 and electrically
conductive substrate 3 are in direct contact, they inherently
will satisfy the claim's "equipotential" requirement.
Appellants do not contend otherwise.
As evidence that it would have been obvious to replace
2The final Office action (at 8) and the Answer (at 9)
incorrectly give the location of this teaching as column 2,
lines 46-50.
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