Appeal 2006-3304
Application 10/203,905
splitting of multi-component filaments into the desired microfilaments. For
example, Marmon discloses that “substantial separation” of his multi-
component fibers is achieved even at lower water jet pressures (col. 11, ll.
10-34, especially ll. 30-34). In addition, Patentee teaches that even greater
separation may be achieved by subjecting the multi-component fibers to his
entangling (i.e., separating) process two or more times (id. at ll. 34-37).
Further, the Marmon reference teaches that subjecting each side of the multi-
component fibers to his entangling (i.e., separating) process significantly
enhances the degree of separation (id. at ll. 37-40). Similarly, Groten
expressly discloses that “more or less complete separation” of his composite
filaments into elementary filaments or microfilaments is effected by his
main and supplementary operations of entanglement and separation (col. 4,
ll. 39-56, emphasis added).
In addition to pointing out these matters, the Examiner has explicitly
noted the similarity between the polymeric materials and splitting (i.e.,
separating) methods disclosed by Appellants in comparison with those
disclosed by Groten (Answer, paragraph bridging 7-8) and Marmon (Answer
9, last paragraph). In light of these similarities and for the reasons discussed
above and in the Answer, it is the Examiner’s position that the fabrics of
Groten and Marmon possess the claim 13 characteristic of being “split at
least to 80%.”
Contrary to the Appellants’ belief, this position is indeed reasonably
supported by fact and/or technical reasoning in accordance with Ex parte
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