Appeal 2007-0592
Application 10/263,001
1 described in Kurano describe “a ‘flexible substrate’ 17 that resemble a
2 sideways “H” bearing a centralized pivot point (e.g. Figure 11) as opposed
3 to a proper U-shaped actuator as described in embodiments of the present
4 application.” (Reply Br. 3-4).
5 The Examiner contends that Kurano describes “an actuator element
6 having a generally ‘U’-shaped structure” as required by Appellant’s claims 1
7 and 8. Specifically, Kurano teaches the feature as the right half of the “H”
8 structure 17 of Figure 11. (Answer 4 and Addendum A2).
9 We affirm.
10 ISSUE
11 Has Appellant shown that the Examiner has failed to establish that
12 Kurano describes “an actuator element having a generally ‘U’-shaped
13 structure” as required by claims 1 and 8?
14
15 FINDINGS OF FACT
16 Appellant invented a system and actuator for preventing particle
17 generation by a micro-actuator. (Specification 2 and 5). The micro-actuator
18 is “U” shaped. (Specification 2; Figures 2 and 4-6).
19 Appellant describes (Specification 3) the problem in the art as
20 follows:
21 Since the [piezoelectric Lead Zirconate Titanate] PZT is an
22 anisotropic structure, meaning the Weiss domains will increase
23 the alignment proportionally, and since the top surface of the
24 PZT is a soft, electric material (i.e., gold or platinum), the PZT
25 does not generate any particles during this deformation.
26 However, as the Zirconia support frame is a hard material
27 lacking the Weiss domain properties, the inner force present
28 during deformation generates particles. Particle generation is
3
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Last modified: September 9, 2013