Appeal 2006-2594
Application 10/034,394
computer software options." (Col. 1, ll. 15-17.) More specifically, the
secondary reference "display[s] pop-up accelerator key symbols associated
with and next to option icons and that represent keys that may be selectable
by the user through use of a keyboard or other input devices to implement
the option with which the symbol is associated." (Col. 2, ll. 27-37.)
Patil explains that accelerator keys offer the advantages of "speed[ing]
the selection of certain options," (id. ll. 32-33), and "avoid[ing] the need for
users to remove their hands from a keyboard." (Id. ll. 60-61.) The
secondary reference further explains the advantage of its pop-up symbols.
To wit, the symbols improve accelerator keys by "enabl[ing] a user to select
options by using accelerator keys without requiring memorization or
requiring the user to manually check a reference guide." (Col. 2, ll. 34-36.)
We agree with the examiner's finding that these advantages would have
provided a motivation to combine Bickmore and Patil.
IV. PLACEHOLDERS HAVING LABELS
CORRESPONDING TO BUTTONS
The Examiner finds, "Patil is meant to teach labels that correspond to
buttons, not placeholders. Bickmore is relied upon to teach placeholders. .
. ." (Answer 6.) The Appellant argues, "At best, Patil's secondary pop-up
symbols are supplemental display elements - appearing together with, not in
place of, the graphical element (e.g., icon) with which they are associated.
They provide a user with an indication of a multi-key keystroke that may be
utilized as an alternative actuating the graphical element itself (e.g.,
'clicking' the icon)." (Br. 9.) Therefore, the issue is whether the
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