1662 (Fed. Cir. 2002) (citing Rexnord Qo&p. v. Laitram Corp. 274 F.3d 1336, 1344, 60 USPQ2d
1851, 1855 (Fed. Cir. 2001)).
Webster's Third New InternationalS Dictionary Unabrided, defines "plurality" as:
I a: the state of being plural ...
b: the state of being numerous
c: a large number or quantity: NnJLTlTLJDE.`
Webster's also includes this definition of "plural:" "relating to or consisting of or containing more
than one.'311
As is apparent from the Webster's definitions, the ordinary meaning ofplurality encompasses
both parties' proposed meanings. Therefore, we do not accept either party's proposed definitions
because they are incomplete. Two may properly be referred to as a plurality and so may a large
number. Thus, "plurality"connotes an indefinite numerical range. The range is bounded by two at
the lower end and unbounded or infinite at the upper end. Thus, "plurality" is a generic word which
encompasses within its meaning any number at least two or greater.
IV.
We hold, based on review of Bilstad's entire written description, that Bilstad only describes
manipulating objects to be sterilized in a small number of directions. This description is not
sufficient to support the phrase "manipulating objects in a plurality of directions." The addition of
the term "plurality of directions" brings within the scope of Bilstad's claims apparatus including a
member capable of moving objects in a large or even infinite number of directions. Bilstad's
originial specification does not provide a written description of manipulations in a large number of
directions. In other words, we find that Bilstad does not have written descriptive support for the
generic subj ect matter now claimed. A broadly drafted claim must be fully supported by the written
description and drawings. Amg 314F.3dat 1333,65 USPQ2dat 1399. The description of a small
number of species or examples does not necessarily provide support for generic language covering
those species as well as other species. Tronzo, 156 F.3d at 1158-60, 47 USPQ2d at 1832-34 (The
12 Webster's Third New International(B) Dictionary, Unabridged, Copyright (D 1993 Merriam-Webster,
Inc.
Webster's Third New Internationalt Dictionary, Unabridged, Copyright 0 1993 Merriam-Webster,
Inc.
24 -
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