Appeal No. 1996-3975
Application No. 08/328,179
diluent. The tank functions by reducing the pressure, which
results in vaporization of monomer and diluent.
The second flash separation means is defined in the
specification at page 6, lines 1-18. We find the second flash
separation means to be a low pressure flash tank 25. The tank
has a conduit means 23 through which it receives a minor
portion of the reaction effluent. We find that two outlets
are provided from the tank, 27 and 29. The polymer is removed
through conduit 27. Monomer is removed through conduit 29.
We further find that the means for analyzing, i.e., the
analyzer transducer 33 is connected to an outlet in tank 25
via conduit 29. The flashing tank 25 typically has a low
capacity of about 2 to about 5 cubic feet. The tank functions
by vaporization of the monomer and diluent.
Based upon the above interpretations we conclude that
each tank performs a separate and distinct function and
receives
its reaction effluent directly from the reactor. Accordingly,
the claimed subject matter requires the presence of two tanks,
a high pressure tank and a low pressure tank arranged in
8
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