Appeal No. 1999-1758
Application No. 08/787,971
engages a surface of the jaw, and that surface may be
considered to be opposite, adjacent or both to the face of the
jaw (14) which is engaged by the rear surface (28) of the
adaptor (22). As set forth above under the section 112, first
paragraph rejection, we understand each angular clip (24) to
engage a rear edge of the vertical flange portion (30) of the
jaw and not a surface of the jaw. In contrast to appellant’s
position, we note that the edge or corner of the vertical
flange portion (30) is a line where two surfaces meet and is
not a surface. Thus, contrary to the appellant's assertions
in the reply brief, the edge or corner may not be considered a
surface opposite, adjacent or both to the face of the jaw of
flange (30). Therefore, we conclude that the specification
does not disclose the subject matter set forth in claim 1,
lines 3-4 and that the claim language on its face is not
understandable, because we do not understand what surfaces of
the jaw are being defined. Accordingly, we will sustain the
rejection by the examiner of claims 1-8 and 10, under 35
U.S.C.
§ 112, second paragraph.
13
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