Appeal No. 1997-3267
Application 08/324,386
. . . the product space is kept at a pressure
higher than atmospheric pressure [,] . . .
the pressure differential between the space
(46) under positive pressure and the product
space can be adjusted in a tunnel arranged
underground, up to a maximum value that can
be selected exclusively according to the
requirements of the filtration problem.
Finally, Stahl teaches that a benefit of his arrangement is that
“the attainable positive pressure in an arrangement for cake
formation and suction drying . . . is no longer absolutely
limited by the vapor pressure. Rather, the positive pressure
can be adjusted according to the requirements [of the filtration
problem]” (translation, page 9). Therefore, we concur with the
examiner that a person of ordinary skill in the art would have
known to select a positive pressure, including 20 bar, to
optimize solving a particular filtration problem while main-
taining a pressure differential within the range of 1-2 bar. We
find the examiner’s position to be well founded, notwithstanding
appellant’s arguments to the contrary. Therefore, we will affirm
the examiner’s rejection of claim 5.
Page: Previous 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 Next
Last modified: November 3, 2007