Appeal 2006-2026
Application 10/300,334
INTRODUCTION
The claims are directed to a faucet spout assembly useable with
multiple interchangeable spouts of varying dimensions (Specification 2, ll.
8-10, Claim 16). Claims 16 and 17 are illustrative:
16. A faucet spout assembly useable with multiple interchangeable
spouts of varying dimensions comprising
a) a spout receptacle sealingly connectable to a fluid supply,
said receptacle including a central passage for fluid flow at least one flange
attached to the spout receptacle and having openings for receipt of a
fastener, and at least one sealing means located in the central passage.[sic]
b) at least one spout capable of sealing engagement with the
spout receptacle including a fluid conduit having a straight portion and u-
shaped portion to form a gooseneck; a flange attached to the straight portion
of the conduit and having openings in the flange therein aligned with the
openings of the spout receptacle flange; and
c) fasteners capable of passage through the openings in the
flanges of the spout and spout receptacle to releasably attach the spout to the
spout receptacle.
17. The faucet of claim 16, wherein the sealing means in the central
passage of the spout receptacle is a washer.
The Examiner relies on the following prior art references as evidence
of unpatentability:
Burke US 506,842 Oct. 17, 1893
Butts US 1,126,386 Jan. 26, 1915
Zastawny US 3,720,428 Mar. 13, 1973
The rejections as presented by the Examiner are as follows:
1. Claims 16, 18, and 22 are rejected under 35 U.S.C. § 103(a) as
being unpatentable over Zastawny in view Burke.
2. Claims 17 and 19-21 are rejected under 35 U.S.C § 103(a) as
unpatentable over Zastawny in view of Burke and Butts.
2
Page: Previous 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Next
Last modified: November 3, 2007