Appeal 2007-0098
Application 10/169,909
are kept heated to a temperature a few degree below the
actuation temperature of the binding fibres [sic, fibers]. . . .
In connection with the calandering [sic, calendaring] the
web may be subjected to a point or line embossing for
additional stabilization of the thin outer layers and for
counteracting delamination of the products.
The calendaring is used to weld the bottom and top bonding fiber layers of
the multi-layered nonwoven fabric. See Schikowski, page 2. This multi-
layered non-woven fabric is useful as an absorbent wiping sheet or absorbent
inserts in sanitary articles, e.g., in sanitary napkins for women. See also
Schilkowski, Abstract and page 1. However, as correctly argued by the
Appellant (Br. 4), Schilkowski does not mention hydrodynamic needling
(i.e., hydro-entangling or hydraulic entangling) an air-lay nonwoven fabric.
To show obviousness of employing the hydrodynamic needling in the
method taught by Schikowski, the Examiner has additionally relied on
Quantrille, Radwanski, Haid, Roussin-Moynier, and optionally Suskind
(Answer 4-7). According to the Examiner (id.), Quantrile, Radwanski, Haid,
Roussin-Moynier, and Suskind individually, or in combination, would have
suggested the employment of an exceptionally advantageous conventional
nonwoven fabric strengthening (bonding) method, such as that claimed, to
further strengthen the multi-layered non-woven fabric taught by
Schilkowski.
The dispositive question is, therefore, whether one of ordinary skill in
the art would have been led to employ the admittedly advantageous method
taught by Schilkowski, together with the subsequent hydrodynamic needling
(hydroentangling) method, to produce a further strengthened multi-layered
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