Appeal No. 1999-2777
Application No. 08/985,835
5, 7, 13 and 15 under 35 U.S.C. § 102(e) as being anticipated
by Block. Like appellant, we note that the Block patent
expressly describes the apparatus therein as being an extra-
labia urine voiding apparatus that includes a container (22)
that is shaped and sized to "externally cover a vulval region
of a female anatomy"
(col. 1, lines 32-34) and has a superior end (38) adapted to
align generally with the mons Veneris of the female anatomy
and an inferior end (40) adapted to align generally with the
perineal region of the female anatomy (col. 3, lines 29-32).
In addition, the apparatus of Block includes an extra-labia
sealing structure (i.e., adhesive 24 and layer of resilient
material 26) that extends generally around the perimeter of
the open side of the container (22) and is adapted to provide
a fluid tight seal or barrier between the container and the
external tissue generally surrounding the vulva region (col.
1, lines 39-44). Block's apparatus also includes a conduit
(28) adapted for draining fluid from the container (22).
Independent claim 5 on appeal defines a female external
catheter for attachment to the urethra, including an
7
Page: Previous 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 Next
Last modified: November 3, 2007