Ex Parte FRANKENBACH et al - Page 5



          Appeal No. 2003-0777                                                        
          Application No. 09/554,969                                                  

               Also, contrary to appellants’ argument, it is not necessary            
          for a finding of obviousness that WO ‘169 teaches that higher               
          concentrations of electrolyte enable the use of a broader range             
          of solvents in formulating a clear or translucent fabric softener           
          composition.  In our view, it is sufficient for a finding of                
          prima facie obviousness that WO ‘169 teaches a class of clear               
          liquid fabric softener compositions which fall within the scope             
          of the appealed claims.                                                     
               Regarding separately argued claims 12 and 13, the referenced           
          ranges for ClogP and amount of electrolyte overlap the claimed              
          ranges, and the reference teaches values that fall directly                 
          within the claimed ranges.                                                  
               As a final point, we note that appellants base no argument             
          upon objective evidence of nonbviousness, such as unexpected                
          results.                                                                    
               In conclusion, based on the foregoing, the examiner's                  
          decision rejecting the appealed claims is affirmed.                         






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