Appeal 2007-1124
Application 10/349,639
For the reasons discussed below, we answer both of these
questions in the negative. Accordingly, we reverse as to all four
grounds of rejection.
RELEVANT FINDINGS OF FACT (“FF”)
1) The term “bevel” refers to the angle or inclination of a line or
surface that meets another at any angle but 90°. The American
Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, (4th ed. 2006). See
Answer, 9 n.1.
2) Smith discloses a method and apparatus for making a solid
vinyl tile on which a decorative layer of print has been embossed.
Col. 3, ll. 34-37.
3) Smith’s method includes the steps of transferring a layer of
print 19 from a preprinted release paper to a plastisol layer 14,
laminating the print and plastisol layers to a continuous base web 31,
embossing the laminate in register with the print, tile cutting in
register with the embossing and print, beveling the cut tiles and
applying a urethane coating. See col. 3, ll. 42-53.
4) Smith discloses that the beveling step results in smooth edges.
Col. 7, ll. 35-36.
5) Ehrhart discloses a rigid tile having a flexible interlocking edge
configuration. Abstract.
6) The edges of Ehrhart’s tile are made of a flexible grout material
such as a urethane and interlock by means of a tongue and groove or
shiplap configuration. Col. 2, ll. 5-8.
4
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