Appeal No. 2000-1669 Page 7
Application No. 08/433,328
The use of various polymer additives is discussed in the
Calvert reference to increase anti-static properties of the
air passage surfaces. It is stated that "if the material
chosen for all of the embodiments of the inhaler in accordance
with the invention is one which has relatively low
electrostatic attraction for the powder in the capsule, the
inhaler will not need regular cleaning" (column 7, lines 1-5).
Calvert also teaches use of a grid (30) in the air passage
(Fig. 8), and discloses that "grid (30) is of a material which
is electrically conductive or is otherwise anti-static.
Preferably the material used is a conductive polymer.
However, the grid may be of a metal such as stainless steel"
(column 7, lines 25-28).
The examiner's rejection (Paper No. 14, pages 2 and 3)
relies on Blower's teaching of an oblong-shaped spacer,
Kraemer's teaching of a spacer volume of 200 to 500 ml, and
Calvert's teaching of using steel filler, and that the entire
body is formed of the same material.
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