Appeal No. 2002-2177 Page 18
Application No. 08/777,424
plurality of predetermined standard patterns, comprises intention input unit for inputting
an intention for additionally correcting at least one of said plurality of layout image data
of a layout result, and can re-select another one of said plurality of predetermined
standard patterns on the basis of the intention input by said intention input unit. . . ."
These limitations leave us in a quandary what the claim specifies for four reasons.
First, we fail to grasp how the claimed "automatic layout unit" can "include" a
step of "selection of one of a plurality of predetermined standard patterns." Second, we
are uncertain which claimed element "comprises" the claimed "intention input unit."
Third, the relationship, if any, between the "said plurality of different image data" laid
out by the "automatic layout . . . in accordance with a predetermined criterion" and "said
plurality of layout image data of a layout result" escapes us. Fourth, we are uncertain
which claimed element "can re-select another one of said plurality of predetermined
standard patterns on the basis of the intention input by said intention input unit."
Accordingly, we are unpersauded that one skilled in the art would understand the
bounds of the claims when read in light of the specification. Therefore, we reject claim
11 and claim 22, which depends therefrom under 35 U.S.C. § 112, ¶ 2.
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