Appeal No. 2006-2240
Application No. 10/232,015
redundant sensing. See Figure 8 step 86. We also note that the rule methodology to generate an
estimate is ignored if the sensor outputs agree, i.e. the difference signal Diff 12 is small. See
column 9, lines 53 through 60.
We consider the Larkin’s teaching of generating difference variables and fuzzifying them
to disclose the claimed steps of “generating a plurality of parameter pair signals responsive to at
least one sensor signal of said at least three sensor signals; selecting one parameter pair signal of
said plurality of parameter pair signals.” Further, we consider the de-fuzzification process which
produces an estimate of the monitored parameter to meet the claimed step of “generating a
measured parameter signal responsive to said selecting.” Further, we note that Larkin’s teaching
that if the value Diff 12 is small, the remainder of the model, which uses the other difference
signals, can be ignored teaches that the method generates the measured parameter signal based
upon the selection of only one signal.
With regard to the appellant’s arguments that the examiner has not established proper
motivation to combine the references, we are not convinced by applicant’s reasoning. The
examiner states on page 6 of the answer :
Larkin et a1 deals with estimating an actual magnitude of a physical
parameter (e.g., a sensor) in order to isolate fault from the sensor signals in order
to better estimate the actual magnitude of the sensor. Ng et a1 discloses correcting error
of torque sensor, where a pair signals (voltage) is used to correct the torque signal. See
column 3.
Larkin’s system is used with an engine control system and the signals can be of any type
monitored on the engine. Ng teaches a torque sensor, which makes use of two contact tracks.
Ng teaches that by subtractively averaging the output voltages of the two contact tracts the
sensor corrects errors from misalignment. See Ng abstract. Appellant’s argument focuses on Ng
using
two sensors (contact tracts), which produce different polarity signals, and asserting that they are
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