Appeal 2007-0417
Application 10/796,814
I. APPEALED SUBJECT MATTER
The subject matter on appeal is directed to a method for preventing
the formation of biofilm deposits in water treatment systems “by the
application of a capacitive electrostatic device (Specification 1, paragraphs
0002 and 0003).” Further details of the appealed subject matter are recited
in illustrative claim 1 reproduced below:
1. A method for reducing the formation of biofilm deposits on a wall
in a water system comprising the steps of:
providing a capacitive electrostatic generator adapted to create an
electrostatic field;
immersing said electrostatic generator in a body of water in the water
system, the water system being connected to an electrical ground relative to
an electromotive force available for energizing the electrostatic generator;
and
energizing said electrostatic generator with said electromotive force,
such that a corresponding electrostatic field is created between said
generator immersed in the water system and said electrical ground without
measurable current leakage in the body of water;
wherein said capacitive electrostatic generator comprises a vitrified
ceramic tube of unibody construction having an integrally-sealed end
defining an inner cavity with an inner wall; conductive material contained
within said inner activity and disposed in intimate contact with said inner
wall; electrically sealing means for providing hermetic closure to said inner
cavity; and electrical means for energizing said conductive material with a
static electromotive force.
2
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Last modified: September 9, 2013