Académique Documents
Professionnel Documents
Culture Documents
Petitioner
v.
Patent Owner
A. Standing ..........................................................................................................2
C. Priority Date Of The ‘252 Patent Should Not Be April 25, 2006 ..................7
i
C. Proposed Primary Reference Seidl ‘836 ......................................................14
ii
VII. THERE IS A REASONABLE LIKELIHOOD THAT THE SOLE CLAIM OF
THE ‘252 PATENT IS UNPATENTABLE ....................................................30
2. Secondary References...........................................................................33
2. Any Differences Between Seidl ‘836 And The ‘252 Patent Are De
Minimis And Would Have Been Obvious To A DHOSITA ...............62
iii
E. Ground 4: The Claim Is Rendered Obvious Over Seidl ‘836 In View of
Bruce, Kaneda, Bergin, and Beckerer ..........................................................73
VIII.CONCLUSION ................................................................................................78
iv
Exhibit List
Exhibit Description
1003 Complaint filed for Raffel Systems, LLC v. Man Wah Holdings LTD
Inc et al., Case 2:18-cv-01765 (WIED) on November 8, 2018
1006 U.S. Patent No. D350,966 to DeMars issued on February 13, 1990
1007 U.S. Patent No. D298,719 to Beckerer, Jr. issued on November 29,
1988
1008 U.S. Patent No. 5,709,429 to Bergin issued on January 20, 1998
1010 U.S. Patent No. 7,681,346 to Bruce issued March 23, 2010
v
In accordance with 35 U.S.C. § 321, Petitioner Man Wah Holdings Limited
(“Man Wah” or “Petitioner”) respectfully requests inter partes review (“IPR”) of the
sole claim of U.S. Patent No. D643,252 (“the ‘252 Patent”) (Ex. 1001), which is
owned by Raffel Systems, LLC ("Raffel" or "Patent Owner"), and cancel that claim
I. MANDATORY NOTICES
Holdings Limited.
The ‘252 patent is presently at issue in the action titled Raffel Systems, LLC v.
Man Wah Holdings LTD Inc et al., Case 2:18-cv-01765 (WIED). A copy of the
1
Email: haotan@archlakelaw.com Email: shenwang@archlakelaw.com
Please address all correspondence to the lead and backup counsel above.
The Office is authorized to charge Deposit Account No. 60-2239 for any
fees required for this Petition, including the fee set forth in 37 C.F.R. § 42.15,
A. Standing
Petitioner certifies that the ‘252 Patent is available for IPR. Petitioner is not
Petitioner requests IPR for ‘252 patent in view of the following references:
2
6 Japanese Design Patent No. JP D1122164 (“Kaneda”)
References 1-8 qualify as prior art under 35 U.S.C. § 102(a) because each of
otherwise available to the public before the effective filing date of the ‘252 patent
None of the references relied upon in this Petition were before the Examiner
during the prosecution of the ‘252 patent. Thus, this Petition does not present the
same or substantially the same prior art or arguments presented during the
statutory grounds:
1 § 103 Camarota
3
Section VII demonstrates, for each of the statutory grounds, that there is a
reasonable likelihood that the Petitioner will prevail. See 35 U.S.C. § 314(a).
Additional explanation and support for each ground is set forth in the expert
The ‘252 patent is a U.S. design patent filed on December 29, 2010 and
assigned U.S. patent application No. 29/382,151 (“the ‘151 application”). See Ex.
12/847,823 filed on July 30, 2010, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application
No. 11/410,547 (“the ‘547 application”) filed on April 25, 2006 (now U.S. patent
No. 7,766,293). Id. Accordingly, the ‘151 application claims an earliest domestic
priority date of April 25, 2006 based on the filing date of the ‘547 application which
Petitioner disagrees. The ‘151 application was issued on August 16, 2011 as U.S.
4
B. The Subject Matter Of The ‘252 Patent
The ‘252 patent is titled "[c]up holder" and claims "[t]he ornamental design
for a cup holder, as shown and described." Id. The ‘252 patent incudes eight figures.
5
Ex. 1001.
Figures 1-8 depict a first perspective view, a second perspective view, a top
plan view, a bottom plan view, a front elevational view, a rear elevational view, a
left side elevational view, and a right side elevational view of a cup holder design.
Id.
6
The sole claim of the ‘252 patent is discussed in detail in Section VI, Claim
Construction.
C. Priority Date Of The ‘252 Patent Should Not Be April 25, 2006
The ‘252 patent claims an earliest domestic priority date of April 25, 2006
based on the filing date of the ‘547 application. Petitioner asserts that the ‘252 is
not entitled to the filing date of the ‘547 application under 35 U.S.C. § 120. In
particular, Petitioner asserts that the written description of the ‘547 application does
not reasonably convey that the inventors were in possession of the claimed subject
continuation must comply with the written description requirement. In re Owens, 710
F.3d 1362, 1366 (Fed. Cir. 2013). “The test for sufficiency of the written description,
which is the same for either a design or a utility patent, has been expressed as
‘whether the disclosure of the application relied upon reasonably conveys to those
skilled in the art that the inventor had possession of the claimed subject matter as of
the filing date.’” Id. (quoting Ariad Pharms., Inc. v. Eli Lilly & Co., 598 F.3d 1336,
1351 (Fed. Cir. 2010) (en banc)). “In the context of design patents, the drawings
provide the written description of the invention. Thus, when an issue of priority arises
under §120 in the context of design patent prosecution, one looks to the drawings of
7
the earlier application for disclosure of the subject matter claimed in the later
Petitioner asserts that the disclosure of the ‘547 application does not provide
written description support for the flange element claimed in the ‘252 patent. For
example, the flange disclosed by the ‘547 application teaches a smooth and flowing
transition between a first flange section and a second flange section while the flange
element recited in the ‘252 patent claims a hard and sharp transition between the first
FIG. 7 of the ‘547 application illustrates a flange having a smooth and flowing
transition between the first flange section and the second flange section. Petitioner
submits that the smooth and flowing transition does not demonstrate possession of
the claimed hard transition recited in exemplary Fig. 1 of the ‘252 patent.
8
2. Inconsistent linear structure on the outside of the side wall
Petitioner asserts that the disclosure of the ‘547 application does not provide
written description support for the linear structure claimed in the ‘252 patent. For
example, the outside of the side wall disclosed by the ‘547 application teaches a
smooth wall free of additional elements while the outside of the side wall recited in
the ‘252 patent claims a linear structure running from the flange to the closed end.
Exemplary Figure 7 of the ‘547 application illustrates the outside of the side
wall having a smooth surface that is free of additional elements. Petitioner submits
that the smooth surface forming the outside of the side wall does not demonstrate
possession of the claimed linear structure recited in exemplary Figure 2 of the ‘252
patent.
Petitioner asserts that the disclosure of the ‘547 application does not provide
written description support for the elements defining the bottom wall as claimed in
9
the ‘252 patent. For example, the bottom wall disclosed by the ‘547 application
teaches a cross, and holes arranged relative to the legs of the cross while the ‘252
patent claims a ring, and a radial slot extending from each hole to the side wall
Exemplary Figure 4 of the ‘547 application illustrates the cross and hole
pattern portion of the bottom wall. Petitioner submits that the cross and holes taught
by the ‘547 application do not demonstrate possession of the ring and radial slots
Petitioner further asserts that the disclosure of the ‘547 application does not
provide written description support for any of the elements depicted and claimed in
10
Figure. 4 of the ‘252 patent. In particular, Petitioner submits that the ‘547
application does not include a bottom view of the disclosed cup holder.
The above missing features are not shown anywhere in the File histories of
parent applications 11/410,547 and 12/847,823. See generally Ex. 1012 and Ex.
1013. Accordingly, Petitioner asserts that neither of the written description of the
‘547 application nor the written description of the ‘823 application supports or
For at least these reasons, Petitioner submits that possession of the claimed
design of the ‘252 patent is not shown as of the filing date of the ’547 application or
as of the filing date of the ‘823 application. Accordingly, based on the present
record, the challenged claim is not entitled to the benefit of the filing date of the ’547
application or the filing date of the ‘823 application. See In re Salmon, 705 F.2d
1579, 1581 (Fed. Cir. 1983) (“for section 120 to apply, the first application must
11
disclose ‘the invention’ claimed in the second application. With respect to the design
patent involved in this case, those provisions require that the stool design claimed in
the second application must be the same design disclosed in the parent application.”)
(citations omitted).
Raffel filed the ‘252 patent on December 29, 2010 and it was assigned U.S.
patent application No. 29/382,151 (“the ‘151 application”). See Ex. 1001. The ‘151
application claims an earliest domestic priority date of April 25, 2006 based on the
filing date of the ‘547 application. However, based on the disclosure of the ‘547
application, Petitioner asserts that the ‘151 application, and the subsequent ‘252
patent, are not entitled to a priority date based on the ‘547 application. Thus, the
priority date for the ‘252 patent can only be December 29, 2010, the filing date of
the ‘151 application. As discussed below, the prior art references relied upon in this
accessible more than one year before the priority date of December 29, 2010 for
the ‘252 patent. See Ex. 1004. Camarota is a U.S. design patent filed on October 9,
12
2007 and assigned application serial No. 29/292,351. Id. Camarota was patented
on November 11, 2008 which is more than one year before the priority date
December 29, 2010 for the ‘252 patent. Id. Thus, Camarota qualifies as prior art
Ring” and includes a single claim directed to “[t]he ornamental design of a combined
beverage container holder and mounting ring, as shown and described.” Id.
Camarota includes 19 figures of which: Figures 1-7 illustrate views of the container
holder and mounting ring, Figures 8-13 illustrate views of the mounting ring, and
13
As shown above in Figure 14, Camarota recites and depicts an elevated view
cup. Figure 1 of Camarota further discloses a mounting ring extending away from
an open end of the container holder. Petitioner submits a brief description under
the belief that it may be "helpful to point out . . . various features of the claimed
design as they relate to the . . . prior art." Egyptian Goddess, Inc. v. Swisa, Inc.,
543 F.3d 665, 680 (Fed. Cir. 2008). For example, Camarota discloses a beverage
container holder that includes a side wall closed by a bottom wall and having an
Camarota further discloses a linear structure aligned along the side wall and
extending away from the flange disposed at the open end of the container holder.
Seidl ‘836 qualifies as prior art because it was published and publicly
accessible before the effective filing date of December 29, 2010 of the ‘252 patent.
See Ex. 1005. Moreover, because the ‘547 application does not provide written
description support for the claims of the ‘252 patent as required under 35 U.S.C.
§120, the ‘547 application cannot be the basis of a claim for priority for the ‘252
patent. Because Seidl ‘836, which is also based on the ‘547 application, was
14
published more than one year before the December 29, 2010 filing date of the ‘151
application, Seidl ‘836 is prior art to the ’151 application and the ‘252 patent.
302 of the cup holder body 304 includes an expanded section 306. Id. The expanded
section 306 of the flange 302 includes a control switch 308 for a massage mechanism
15
Similarly, Figure 3 discloses the cross structure and holes formed in a bottom
wall 128 that cooperates with a side wall, such as cup holder body 118, to define a
DeMars qualifies as prior art because it was published and publicly accessible
before the effective filing date of December 29, 2010 for the ‘252 patent. See Ex.
1006. DeMars is a U.S. design patent filed on March 26, 1987 and assigned
application serial No. 29/31,387. Id. DeMars was patented on February 13, 1990
which is more than one year before the priority date December 29, 2010 for the ‘252
patent. Id. Thus, DeMars qualifies as prior art for the ‘252 patent.
16
2. The Disclosure Of DeMars
design for a drinking cup or similar article Id. DeMars includes six figures including
a front elevation, a right side elevation, a rear elevation, a top plan view, a bottom
view of a drinking cup, and Figure 4 depicts a top plan view of the drinking cup.
Id. Petitioner submits a brief description under the belief that it may be "helpful
to point out . . . various features of the claimed design as they relate to the . . .
prior art." Egyptian Goddess, Inc. v. Swisa, Inc., 543 F.3d 665, 680 (Fed. Cir.
2008). For example, in Figure 2, DeMars discloses a drinking cup that includes a
flange extending away from the surface of an outer wall. DeMars, in Figure 4,
further discloses that the flange extends sharply away from the surface of the outer
wall.
17
E. Proposed Secondary Reference Beckerer
Beckerer qualifies as prior art because it was patented accessible before the
effective filing date of December 29, 2010 for the ‘252 patent. See Ex. 1007.
Beckerer is a U.S. design patent filed on December 23, 1985 and assigned
application serial No. 29/812,454. Id. Beckerer was patented on November 29, 1988
which is more than one year before the priority date December 29, 2010 for the ‘252
patent. Id. Thus, Beckerer qualifies as prior art for the ‘252 patent. Beckerer was
cited in the IDS in the parent Utility Patent Application 11/410,547. (Ex. 1012, page
92). However, Beckerer was not considered by the Examiner of the design
Beckerer is titled “Holder for Bottles, Containers or the like,” and claims an
ornamental design for a holder for bottles, containers or the like, as shown and
described.” Id. Beckerer includes three figures including a top plan view, a side
18
As shown above in Figure 1, Beckerer recites and depicts a top plan view
for a holder of bottles, containers or the like. Id. Petitioner submits a brief
description under the belief that it may be "helpful to point out . . . various features
of the claimed design as they relate to the . . . prior art." Egyptian Goddess, Inc.
v. Swisa, Inc., 543 F.3d 665, 680 (Fed. Cir. 2008). For example, as shown in
Figure 1, the bottom wall of Beckerer includes a cross structure, and holes
Bergin qualifies as prior art because it was patented accessible before the
effective filing date of December 29, 2010 for the ‘252 patent. See Ex. 1008. Bergin
is a U.S. patent filed on April 12, 1996 and assigned application serial No.
08/631,544. Id. Bergin was patented on January 20, 1998 which is more than one
19
year before the priority date December 29, 2010 for the ‘252 patent. Id. Thus, Bergin
embodiments of a drink container holder. Id. Bergin includes eight figures detailing
upper and lower flanges 46,. 48. Id. Petitioner submits a brief description under
the belief that it may be "helpful to point out . . . various features of the claimed
design as they relate to the . . . prior art." Egyptian Goddess, Inc. v. Swisa, Inc.,
543 F.3d 665, 680 (Fed. Cir. 2008). For example, as shown in Fig. 2 above, the
support flange 32 is a liner structure that extends away from the upper flange
20
G. Proposed Secondary Reference Kaneda
Kaneda qualifies as prior art because it was published and accessible before
the effective filing date of December 29, 2010 for the ‘252 patent. See Ex. 1009.
Kaneda is a Japanese design patent published on September 25, 2001 and assigned
application serial No. D1122164. Id. Because Kaneda was published more than one
year before the priority date December 29, 2010 for the ‘252 patent, Kaneda qualifies
design for fire holes obturator fitted to a cylindrical heat-expandable putty to close
by thermal expansion during a fire. Id. Kaneda further discloses and illustrates a
flange having a first flange section and a second flange section as shown in the figure
reproduced below.
21
H. Proposed Secondary Reference Bruce
Bruce qualifies as prior art because it was patented and published before the
effective filing date of December 29, 2010 for the ‘252 patent. See Ex. 1010. Bruce
is a U.S. patent filed on September 12, 2007 and assigned serial No. 11/854,328.
Bruce published on March 12, 2009 as U.S. Patent Application Publication No.
2009-0064549. Bruce issued as U.S. Patent No. 7,681,346 on March 23, 2010.
Because Bruce was published more than one year before the priority date December
29, 2010 for the ‘252 patent, Bruce qualifies as prior art for the ‘252 patent.
Bruce is titled “advertising apparatus and method,” and claims a new and
Id. Fig. 3A of Shad further discloses and illustrates a flange having a first flange
22
I. Proposed Secondary Reference Korea
Korea qualifies as prior art because it was published and accessible before the
effective filing date of December 29, 2010 for the ‘252 patent. See Ex. 1011. Korea
No. KR20060114593. Id. Because Korea was published more than one year before
the priority date December 29, 2010 for the ‘252 patent, Korea qualifies as prior art
Korea is titled “cup holder having heating and cooling function and seat
having same,” and claims embodiments of a cup holder a heating and cooling
function. Id. Fig. 9 of Korea further discloses and illustrates a flange having a first
23
flange section and a second flange section where the second flange is formed
who has taken product design courses or (ii) two years of work experience creating
accordance with the ordinary and customary meaning of such claim as understood
by one of ordinary skill in the art and the prosecution history pertaining to the patent.
24
37 C.F.R. § 42.100(b). Because of this rule, for the purpose of this inter partes
review, Petitioner has employed the ordinary and customary meaning construction
For purposes of this Petition, Petitioner believes that the following written
description points out the various features comprising the overall appearance of
the design claimed in the ‘252 patent as they relate to the prior art: (a) a flange
including a first curved flange section, and a second curved flange section; (b) a
side wall; (c) a bottom portion including a bottom wall having a cross and holes
formed thereon; (d) a linear structure extending between the flange and bottom
wall (e) a perimeter structure including a ring disposed adjacent to the side wall,
and a radial slot extending from each hole towards the side wall; and (f) features
on the outside of the cup holder in the bottom view. Ex. 1015, ¶ 56. Petitioner
purposefully has not provided a detailed verbal description but submits this claim
claimed design as they relate to the . . . prior art." Egyptian Goddess, Inc. v. Swisa,
As illustrated below in annotated Fig. 2 below, the ‘252 patent claims a cup
holder including a side wall supporting a flange having a first curved flange
section and a second curved flange section; and a bottom wall cooperating with
the side wall to form the bottom portion. Ex. 1015, ¶ 57.
25
(a)
(b)
(d)
(c)
As illustrated below in annotated Fig. 3 below, the ‘252 patent claims a cup
holder further including a cross in the center of the bottom wall, four small holes
each connected with a line section such as a slot or groove formed on the bottom
wall; and a ring disposed on the bottom wall adjacent to the side wall. Ex. 1015,
¶ 58.
(c) (e)
26
As illustrated below in annotated Fig. 4 below, the ‘252 patent claims a cup
holder further including features in the bottom view. The features include five
holes on the outside of the bottom wall, two holes adjacent to the linear structure,
seven dots on the flange including three small dots on first curved flange section,
and four larger dots on the second curved flange section. Ex. 1015, ¶ 59.
(f)
As shown above, the claimed cup holder of the ‘252 patent includes a flange
having a first curved flange section and a second curved flange section. The first
curved flange section has a substantially round shape. Ex. 1015, ¶ 61. The first
curved flange section extends from the rim of the cup holder and surrounds more
27
than half of the periphery of the cup holder. Id. The second curved flange section
separated from the first curved flange section. Id. The second curved flange
section has a wider rim than the first curved flange section. Id. There is a hard and
sharp transition between the first curved flange section and a second curved flange
section. Id.
Below the first and second flange sections, the claimed cup holder of the
‘252 patent has a side wall. Ex. 1015, ¶ 62. As shown in Fig. 2 above, the side
wall defines a curved side wall of the cup holder. Id. The side wall ends at the
(c) A bottom portion including a bottom wall having slots and holes
At the bottom of the cup holder, the claimed cup holder of the ‘252 patent
includes a bottom portion including a bottom wall having a cross and holes formed
thereon, and a radial slot extending from each hole towards the side wall. Ex.
1015, ¶ 63. As shown in Fig. 2 above, the bottom wall has a shorter diameter
compared with the flange including the first and second flange sections. Ex. 1001,
Figs. 1-3. As shown in Fig. 3 above, the cross extends towards the side wall. Id.
Additionally, there are four holes formed in the bottom wall and aligned with the
28
legs of the cross. Id. Fig. 3 further illustrates slots extending radially from each
portion
The claimed cup holder of the ‘252 patent has a linear structure extending
between the second curved flange section of the flange and the bottom portion.
Ex. 1015, ¶ 64. As shown in Fig. 2 above, the second curved flange section has a
In addition to the bottom portion, the claimed cup holder of the ‘252 patent
includes a ring disposed on the bottom wall. Ex. 1015, ¶ 65. As shown in Fig. 3
above, a ring element has a semi-circular shape and aligns with the bottom and
side walls. Id. The ring encompasses the bottom wall and extends adjected to the
(f) Holes and dots on the outside of the cup holder in the bottom plan
view
The cup holder of the ‘252 patent, as illustrated in annotated Fig. 4 above,
includes five holes on the outside of the bottom wall, two holes adjacent to the
linear structure, seven dots on the flange including three small dots on first curved
29
flange section, and four larger dots on the second curved flange section. Ex. 1015,
¶ 66.
A. Legal Standard
A claim is unpatentable under § 102 if a single prior art reference discloses all
the limitations arranged or combined in the same way as in the claim. Kennametal,
Inc. v. Ingersoll Cutting Tool Co., 780 F.3d 1376, 1381 (Fed. Cir. 2015). A reference
can anticipate a claim even if it “does not expressly spell out all the limitations
arranged or combined as in the claim, if a person of skill in the art, reading the
The test for obviousness of a design patent under 35 U.S.C. § 103 is “whether
the claimed design would have been obvious to a designer of ordinary skill who
designs articles of the type involved.” Durling, 101 F.3d at 103 (citation omitted). In
assessing obviousness, the Board “must both (1) discern the correct visual impression
created by the patented design as a whole; and (2) determine whether there is a single
reference that creates basically the same visual impression.” High Point Design
LLC v. Buyers Direct, Inc., 730 F.3d 1301, 1312 (Fed. Cir. 2013) (internal quotations
30
omitted) (emphasis added). “[O]ther references may be used to modify [the primary
reference] to create a design that has the same overall visual appearance as the
It is important to note that the “basically the same” test does not require that
obviousness as a basis for invalidity because “if the designs were identical, no
LLP, 747 F.3d 1326, 1333 (Fed. Cir. 2014). Indeed, the Federal Circuit held that
even if a prior art reference were to lack a key feature, it could still constitute a
primary reference. Id. at 1333, n.3 (noting that the V2 jersey reference ,relied upon
as a secondary reference, could also constitute a primary reference even though “the
ornamental surge stitching truly alters the ‘overall visual appearance’ of the
design.”).
In MRC, the Federal Circuit cited and discussed certain of its previous
decisions involving notably discernible design differences that were still found to be
de minimis:
See Jore Corp. v. Kouvato, Inc., 117 F. App’x 761, 763 (Fed. Cir. 2005)
smooth cylindrical shaft rather than the grooved hexagonal shaft of the
31
claimed design); In re Nalbandian, 661 F.2d 1214, 1217-18 (CCPA
1981) (finding tweezer design obvious in light of prior art reference that
contained vertical rather than horizontal fluting and straight rather than
It should also be noted that a single primary prior art reference alone can
render obvious a design patent, if the differences are de minimis. Id. In the
Nalbandian case, the CCPA affirmed a decision of the Patent and Trademark Office
Board of Appeals in which the Board found a design patent to be obvious in view of
a primary reference and certain secondary references. However, the CCPA decided
obviousness. In re Nalbandian, 661 F.2d at 1215. The CCPA found that “[t]he
differences in the finger grips of a slightly different shape and the straight, rather
than slightly curved pincers, are de minimis.” Id. at 1217 (emphasis added).
Furthermore, the CCPA found that change from vertical fluting to horizontal
fluting (illustrated below) was “well within the skill of an ordinary designer in the
art to make the modification of the fluting and that it would have been obvious to do
32
The CCPA was clear that “[s]uch changes do not achieve a patentably distinct
design.” Id. at 1218. The CCPA’s decision was cited in the 2014 Federal Circuit
MRC decision as properly decided, noting that Nalbandian decision found the
“tweezer design obvious in light of prior art reference that contained vertical rather
than horizontal fluting and straight rather than curved pincers.” MRC, 747 F.3d at
1333.
2. Secondary References
Secondary references may be used to modify the primary reference if the two
are “so related that the appearance of certain ornamental features in one would
suggest the application of those features to the other.” MRC, 747 F.3d at 1334. (Fed.
Cir. 1996) (citations omitted). Note that finding obviousness does not require that
the combined prior art references be identical to the design patent. In re Lamb, 286
F.2d 610, 611 (C.C.P.A. 1961) (“[T]he mere fact that there are differences over the
prior art structures is not alone sufficient to justify a holding that the design is
33
patentable.”). The test is whether the “other references may be used to modify [the
primary reference] to create a design that has the same overall visual appearance
as the claimed design.” High Point Design LLC. V. Buyers Direct, Inc., 730 F.3d
impression” as the cup holder claimed in the ‘252 patent because both references
generally disclose cup holders having a flange at the open end. In particular,
Camarota discloses the following key elements of the design claimed in the ‘252
patent: (a) a flange including a first curved flange section; (b) a side wall; (c) a
bottom portion including a bottom wall; and (e) a ring disposed on the bottom wall.
Demonstratives showing where elements (a), (b), (c), and (e) are located in both
Camarota and in the ‘252 patent are provided in the sections below. Ex. 1015, ¶ 68.
As illustrated below, both Camarota and the ‘252 patent provide basically
the same visual impression in that they both depict a cup holder with a flange
including a first flange section, a side wall, a bottom portion including a bottom
34
wall, and perimeter structure including a ring disposed on the bottom wall. Ex.
1015, ¶ 69.
As shown above, the differences between Camarota and the ‘252 patent are
(a) the ‘252 patent includes a linear structure extending from the flange to the
bottom portion while Camarota does not have this linear structure; and (b) the
‘252 patent has a radial slot extending from each hole towards the side while
Camarota does not have these radial slots; (c) the ‘252 patent has numerous small
holes and dots formed on the bottom wall while Camarota does not have these
holes; and (d) the ‘252 patent includes a particular flange profile while Camarota
35
does not display the same profile. Ex. 1015, ¶70. However, these slight
differences do not alter the fact that Camarota, either alone or in combination
with Demars and Beckerer, “creates basically the same visual impression” as the
‘252 patent. Id., Ex. 1006, FIG. 5, and Ex. 1007, FIGS. 1 and 3.
It is worth reiterating that the "basically the same" test does not require
obviousness as a basis for invalidity because "if the designs were identical, no
obviousness analysis would be required." MRC, 747 F.3d at 1333. Indeed, even
when looking at the design created by the combination of a primary prior art
reference with a secondary prior art reference, "the mere fact that there are
differences over the prior art structures is not alone sufficient to justify a holding
that the design is patentable." In re Lamb, 286 F.2d at 611. The seminal
Nalbandian case and the differences noted in that case between the claimed
design and the single, primary reference relied upon by the C.C.P.A. to find
36
In re Nalbandian, 661 F.2d at 1215.
In the Nalbandian case, the C.C.P.A found that "[t]he differences in the
finger grips of a slightly different shape and the straight, rather than slightly
added). In addition, the CCPA found that change from vertical fluting to
horizontal fluting was "well within the skill of an ordinary designer in the art to
make the modification of the vertical grooves and that it would have been obvious
to do so." Id. at 1217-18. Based on these findings, the C.C.P.A. did not even need
The cup holder of the ‘252 patent shows a linear structure extending away
from the flange towards the bottom portion. A DHOSITA would recognize that
and the flange. Ex. 1015, ¶ 71. For example, a DHOSITA would recognize that the
slot could have at least one of following functions: first, holding the cap in place
37
when installed, and second, providing channel/housing for wires from the bottom
32 extends between upper and lower flanges 46, 48. See Ex. 1008.
mechanical and/or electrical connection between the flange and the bottom
portion. Ex. 1015, ¶ 73. For example, as discussed in Bergin, adding a mounting
38
assembly including a support flange attached to the exterior of the receptacle wall
1015, ¶74. For example, FIG. 1 of Camarota depicts a mounting ring (1) positioned
adjacent to the flange (2) and supported by the side wall (3). Ex. 1004. It would
be an obvious design choice to modify and extend the mounting ring (1) towards
the bottom wall in order to provide additional support similar to the linear structure
For all of these reasons, it would have been a de minimis change to modify
the mounting ring form a linear structure and/or to include a linear structure. Ex.
1015, ¶ 75. For example, the structural support provided by the linear structure
design choice. Id. Similarly, extending the existing mounting ring to provide
39
additional structure support would be well-understood by a DHOSITA making the
structure represents an obvious design choice to the DHOSITA and would not
materially alter the overall visual impression of the container holder of Camarota.
Id. Thus, this design change is less than the design changes found to be de minimis
The cup holder of the ‘252 patent includes a radial slot extending away
from each of the holes formed in the bottom wall relative to the legs of the cross.
Adding the radial slots aligned with the holes on the bottom wall of Camarota
would have been a de minimis change that would have been obvious to a
A DHOSITA would have known that a cup holder may include one or more
functional elements such as holes and grooves to drain and direct liquids. Ex. 1015,
¶77. For example, a cross and holes pattern (a) is shown in FIG. 4 (reproduced
below) of the Seidl ‘836 patent application. Id. and Ex. 1005. Similarly, Beckerer
discloses a cross and hole pattern at the center of the round bottom wall of the cup
holder. See Ex. 1007. A DHOSITA would recognize that these cross and hole
40
patterns are provided for functional reasons related to liquid drainage within the
cup holder and not merely the design features of the pattern. Ex. 1015, ¶77.
incorporated into the cross and hole pattern to further drain and direct liquids. Ex.
1015, ¶78. For example, adding a radial slot extending from each hole towards
the side wall would be a de minimis change that represents an obvious design
choice for a DHOSITA attempting to manage drainage in a cup holder. Ex. 1015,
¶ 78.
holes represents an obvious design choice to the DHOSITA and would not
materially alter the overall visual impression of the container holder of Camarota.
Id. Thus, this design change is less than the design changes found to be de minimis
41
c. Adding Holes and Dots In The Center Of The Round
Bottom Wall Would Have Been De Minimis
The cup holder of the ‘252 patent, as illustrated in annotated Fig. 4 below,
includes five holes on the outside of the bottom wall, two holes adjacent to the
linear structure, seven dots on the flange including three small dots on first curved
flange section, and four larger dots on the second curved flange section. Ex. 1015,
¶80. Adding such holes and dots on the round bottom wall of Camarota would
have been a de minimis change that would have been obvious to a DHOSITA. Id.
(f)
A DHOSITA would have known that a cup holder may include one or more
functional elements such as holes and grooves to drain and direct liquids. Ex. 1015,
¶81. For example, a cross is shown in FIG. 4 (reproduced below) of the Seidl ‘836
patent application. Ex. 1015, ¶ 81; and Ex. 1005. Similarly, Fig. 1 (reproduced
below) of Beckerer discloses that there is a cross at the center of the round bottom
42
Accordingly, it would have been a de minimis change to add any number
of dots or holes on the bottom wall the cup holder. Including features such as dots
and holes would have been an obvious design modification to a DHOSITA. Ex.
1015, ¶82. In particular, this change would have been an obvious modification for
a number of reasons such as: (1) Camarota teaches a round feature formed on the
bottom wall in FIG. 18, and thus already teaches that a cup holder can have features
on the bottom wall. Ex. 1015, ¶82. This change is well known to a DHOSITA, for
example, Seidl ‘836 discloses that “the side wall 126 and bottom wall 128 may
include one or more slots or holes therethrough.” Ex. 1015, ¶ 82. Thus, adding
five holes in the center of the round bottom wall and a few dots below the first
flange section and four dots below the second flange section, or in any other pattern
change. Id.
43
These modifications are well known to DHOSITAs. Id. The difference here
involves merely adding the cross and holes on the bottom wall, especially when a
immediately apparent and obvious design reasons to do so. Ex. 1015, ¶83. This
design change does not alter any existing elements of the original design. Id.
Thus, this design change is less than the design changes found to be de minimis in
The second curved flange feature of the ‘252 and the extended flange of
44
In another example, Fig. 3A of Bruce discloses an extended flange (a)
that extends approximately halfway around the open end and includes a curved
45
Similarly, Kaneda is directed to a fire prevention hole obturator discloses
an extended flange (a) that includes extends more than halfway around the open
end.
cooling function. The cup holder of Korea includes an extended flange (a) that
incorporates controls such as the operations unit/control panel 320. See Ex.
alterations in the size and coverage afforded by the extended flange may be
implemented. Ex. 1015, ¶88. For example, depending on the size and/or
would know to modify the size of the overall flange to accommodate the unit.
Id. Thus, changes to the size and configuration of the extended flange represent
46
C. Ground 2: The Claim Is Rendered Obvious By Camarota In View
Seidl ‘836, DeMars, and Beckerer
impression” as the cup holder claimed in the ‘252 patent because both references
generally disclose cup holders having a flange at the open end. Ex. 1015, ¶ 89. In
particular, Camarota discloses the following key elements of the design claimed in
the ‘252 patent: (a) a flange including a first curved flange section; (b) a side wall;
(c) a bottom portion including a bottom wall; and (e) a ring disposed on the bottom
wall. Demonstratives showing where elements (a), (b), (c), and (e) are located in
both Camarota and in the ‘252 patent are provided in the sections below. Ex. 1015,
¶ 89.
As illustrated below, both Camarota and the ‘252 patent provide basically
the same visual impression in that they both depict a cup holder with a flange
including a first flange section, a side wall, a bottom portion including a bottom
wall, and perimeter structure including a ring disposed on the bottom wall. Ex.
1015, ¶ 90.
47
2. Seidl ‘836, DeMars, and Beckerer Qualify as a Secondary
Reference as Each Discloses an Ornamental Features That
Suggests Application to Camarota
The cup holder of ‘836 Seidl includes ornamental features that suggest
application to the container holder of Camarota. For example, both Seidl ‘836 and
the ‘252 patent depict a cup holder with a flange including first and second curved
sections, a side wall, a bottom portion including a bottom wall having a cross and
holes formed thereon, and perimeter structure including a ring disposed on the
48
flange
flange
side side
wall wall
bottom
bottom portion
portion
to the flange that suggest application to the container holder of Camarota. Ex. 1015
¶ 92. Similarly, the bottle holder of Beckerer includes ornamental features related to
the bottom portion that suggest application to the container holder of Camarota. Ex.
1015 ¶ 92. When these ornamental features are applied to the container holder of
Camarota the resulting includes all of the elements and provides “basically the same
visual impression” as the cup holder claimed in the ‘252 patent. Id.
49
As illustrated in Figs. 2 and 4 of DeMars, the drinking cup includes a flange
(a) having an extended flange portion (b) extending away from a side wall. Ex. 1015
¶ 93. In particular, the extended flange portion (b) curves around the open end of
the cup and extends away from the side wall of the cup. Ex. 1015 ¶ 93. When the
features of DeMars are applied to the container holder of Camarota, the resulting
design includes a flange having a first curved flange section and a second curved
50
As illustrated in Fig. 1 of Beckerer, the bottle holder depicts a bottom portion
having a ring (i), a bottom wall including a cross (ii) and holes (iii) formed thereon.
Ex. 1015 ¶ 94. Fig. 3 of the ‘252 patent is included and annotated to identify the
corresponding elements. In particular, the cross includes legs extending across the
bottom wall, and the hold are formed relative to the legs of the cross. When the
features of Beckerer are applied to the container holder of Camarota, the resulting
design includes a bottom portion a ring adjacent to the side wall, a cross and holes
As shown above, the differences between Camarota and the ‘252 patent are
(a) the ‘252 patent includes a linear structure extending from the flange to the
bottom portion while Camarota does not have this linear structure; (b) the ‘252
patent has a radial slot extending from each hole towards the side while Camarota
does not have these radial slots; and (c) the ‘252 patent has four small holes on
the bottom wall while Camarota does not have these holes. Ex. 1015, ¶95.
However, these slight differences do not alter the fact that Camarota, either alone
or in combination with Demars and Beckerer, “creates basically the same visual
51
It is worth reiterating that the "basically the same" test does not require
obviousness as a basis for invalidity because "if the designs were identical, no
obviousness analysis would be required." MRC, 747 F.3d at 1333. Indeed, even
when looking at the design created by the combination of a primary prior art
reference with a secondary prior art reference, "the mere fact that there are
differences over the prior art structures is not alone sufficient to justify a holding
that the design is patentable." In re Lamb, 286 F.2d at 611. The seminal
Nalbandian case and the differences noted in that case between the claimed
design and the single, primary reference relied upon by the C.C.P.A. to find
In the Nalbandian case, the C.C.P.A found that "[t]he differences in the
finger grips of a slightly different shape and the straight, rather than slightly
52
curved pincers, are de minimis." In re Nalbandian, 661 F.2d at 1217 (emphasis
added). In addition, the CCPA found that change from vertical fluting to
horizontal fluting was "well within the skill of an ordinary designer in the art to
make the modification of the vertical grooves and that it would have been obvious
to do so." Id. at 1217-18. Based on these findings, the C.C.P.A. did not even need
The cup holder of the ‘252 patent shows a linear structure extending away
from the flange towards the bottom portion. A DHOSITA would recognize that
53
The addition of the linear structure to provide an electrical or mechanical
extends between upper and lower flanges 46, 48. See Ex. 1008.
connection between the flange and the bottom portion. Ex. 1015 ¶ 98. For example,
attached to the exterior of the receptacle wall can be used for mounting the cup
holder. Id.
54
Additionally, including the linear structure would represent obvious design
modification in light of the mounting ring structure in Camarota. Ex. 1015 ¶ 99.
flange (2) and supported by the side wall (3). It would be an obvious design choice
to modify and extend the mounting ring (1) towards the bottom wall in order to
provide additional support similar to the linear structure (1a) shown in Fig. 2. Ex.
1015 ¶ 99.
For all of these reasons, it would have been a de minimis change to modify
the mounting ring to form the claimed linear structure and/or to include a linear
structure. Ex. 1015 ¶100. For example, the structural support provided by the
55
Accordingly, incorporation of a linear structure represents an obvious design
choice to the DHOSITA and would not materially alter the overall visual
impression of the container holder of Camarota. Id. Thus, this design change is
less than the design changes found to be de minimis in the Nalbandian case. Id.
The cup holder of the ‘252 patent shows a radial slot extending away from
each of the holes formed in the bottom wall relative to the legs of the cross. Adding
the radial slots aligned with the holes on the bottom wall of Camarota would have
been a de minimis change that would have been obvious to a DHOSITA. Ex. 1015,
¶101.
A DHOSITA would have known that a cup holder may include one or more
functional elements such as holes and grooves to drain and direct liquids. Ex. 1015,
¶102. For example, a cross and holes pattern (a) is shown in FIG. 4 (reproduced
below) of the Seidl ‘836 patent application. Ex. 1015, ¶102 and Ex. 1005.
Similarly, Beckerer discloses a cross and hole pattern at the center of the round
bottom wall of the cup holder. See Ex. 1007. A DHOSITA would recognize that
these cross and hole patterns are provided for functional reasons related to liquid
drainage within the cup holder and not merely the design features of the pattern.
56
Similarly, a DHOSITA would understand that additional elements may be
incorporated into the cross and hole pattern to further drain and direct liquids. Ex.
1015, ¶103. For example, adding a radial slot extending from each hole towards
the side wall would be a de minimis change that represents an obvious design
the holes represents an obvious design choice to the DHOSITA and would not
materially alter the overall visual impression of the container holder of Camarota.
Ex. 1015, ¶ 104. Thus, this design change is less than the design changes found to
57
The cup holder of the ‘252 patent, as illustrated in annotated Fig. 4 below,
includes five holes on the outside of the bottom wall, two holes adjacent to the
linear structure, seven dots on the flange including three small dots on first curved
flange section, and four larger dots on the second curved flange section. Ex. 1015,
¶105. Adding such holes and dots on the round bottom wall of Camarota would
have been a de minimis change that would have been obvious to a DHOSITA. Ex.
1015, ¶105.
(f)
A DHOSITA would have known that a cup holder may include one or more
functional elements such as holes and grooves to drain and direct liquids. Ex. 1015,
¶106. For example, a cross is shown in FIG. 4 of the Seidl ‘836 patent application.
Ex. 1015, ¶ 106 and Ex. 1005. Similarly, Beckerer discloses that there is a cross
at the center of the round bottom wall of the cup holder. See Ex. 1007.
of dots or holes on the bottom wall the cup holder. Ex. 1015, ¶107. Including
58
features such as dots and holes would have been an obvious design modification
modification for a number of reasons such as: (1) Camarota teaches a round feature
formed on the bottom wall in FIG. 18, and thus already teaches that a cup holder
can have features on the bottom wall. Ex. 1015, ¶ 107. This change is well known
to a DHOSITA, for example, Seidl ‘836 Application discloses that “the side
wall 126 and bottom wall 128 may include one or more slots or holes
therethrough.” Ex. 1015, ¶ 107. Thus, adding five holes in the center of the round
bottom wall and a few dots below the first flange section and four dots below the
second flange section, or in any other pattern or arrangement to the cup holder of
These modifications are well known to DHOSITAs. Id. The difference here
involves merely adding the cross and holes on the bottom wall, especially when a
immediately apparent and obvious design reasons to do so. Ex. 1015, ¶108. This
design change does not alter any existing elements of the original design. Id.
Thus, this design change is less than the design changes found to be de minimis in
59
D. Ground 3: The Claim Is Rendered Obvious Over Seidl ‘836 In
View of Bergin
Seidl ‘836 provides “basically the same visual impression” as the design
claimed in the ‘252 patent because it discloses the following key elements of the
design claimed in the ‘252 patent: (a) a flange including a first curved flange section
and a second curved flange section; (b) a side wall; (c) a bottom portion including a
bottom wall having a cross and holes formed thereon; and (e) perimeter structure
elements (a), (b), (c), and (e) are located in both Seidl ‘836 and in the ‘252 patent
As illustrated below, both Seidl ‘836 and the ‘252 patent depict a cup
holder with a flange including first and second curved sections, a side wall, a
bottom portion including a bottom wall having a cross and holes formed
thereon, and perimeter structure including a ring disposed on the bottom wall.
60
flange
flange
side side
wall wall
bottom
bottom portion
portion
ring
radial
slots ring
61
2. Any Differences Between Seidl ‘836 And The ‘252 Patent Are
De Minimis And Would Have Been Obvious To A DHOSITA
As shown above, the differences between Seidl ‘836 and the ‘252 patent
are (1) the flange in ‘252 patent has a hard and sharp transition between the first
curved flange section and a second curved flange section while the flange in Seidl
‘836 does not have this; (2) the bottom wall of ‘252 patent has radial slots
connected while Seidl ‘836 does not have these radial slots; and (3) the ‘252
patent has holes and dots on the bottom wall outside of the cup holder while Seidl
‘836 does not show the bottom view; and (4) the ‘252 patent has a linear structure
under the second curved flange section while Seidl ‘836 does not have this linear
structure. Ex. 1015, ¶111. However, these slight differences do not alter the fact
that Seidl ‘836 "creates basically the same visual impression" as the ‘252 patent.
Id.
It is worth reiterating that the "basically the same" test does not require
obviousness as a basis for invalidity because "if the designs were identical, no
obviousness analysis would be required." MRC, 747 F.3d at 1333. Indeed, even
when looking at the design created by the combination of a primary prior art
reference with a secondary prior art reference, "the mere fact that there are
differences over the prior art structures is not alone sufficient to justify a holding
62
that the design is patentable." In re Lamb, 286 F.2d at 611. The seminal
Nalbandian case and the differences noted in that case between the claimed
design and the single, primary reference relied upon by the C.C.P.A. to find
In the Nalbandian case, the C.C.P.A found that "[t]he differences in the
finger grips of a slightly different shape and the straight, rather than slightly
added). In addition, the CCPA found that change from vertical fluting to
horizontal fluting was "well within the skill of an ordinary designer in the art to
make the modification of the vertical grooves and that it would have been obvious
to do so." Id. at 1217-18. Based on these findings, the C.C.P.A. did not even need
63
Similarly, as discussed below, the slight differences between Seidl ‘836 and
The cup holder of the ‘252 patent shows a flange including a hard transition
angle between the first curved flange section and the second curved flange section.
Ex. 1015, ¶ 112. Changing the turning angle of the second curved flange section
of Seidl ‘836 would have been a de minimis change that would have been obvious
A DHOSITA would have known that a cup holder may include a second
flange section. Ex. 1015, ¶ 113. Further, the turning angle can be changed under
at the time when the invention was made. Ex. 1015, ¶ 113. As disclosed in Fig.
3A of Bruce, a structure 120 attached with the cup holder 110 has a flange section
that includes a hard transition between the first curved flange section and the
64
Hard
transition
angle between the first curved flange section and the second curved flange section
to the cup holder. Ex. 1015, ¶114. This would have been an obvious design
modification to a DHOSITA. Ex. 1015, ¶ 114. First, Seidl ‘836 has a first flange
section and a second flange section, thus, Seidl ‘836 already teaches that a cup
holder can have two flange sections. Id. Modifying the flange of Seidl ‘836 based
on the disclosure of Bruce represents a change that is well-known within the skill
known design choice to utilize a flange having different shaped sections and/or
profiles. Ex. 1010. Fig. 3A. Similarly, Kaneda discloses a flange that includes
65
different sections and/or profiles with a hard transition between the different flange
hard
transition
This fact was well known to DHOSITAs. Ex. 1015, ¶115. The difference
here involves merely changing the transition angle between the first and second
flange section, especially when a DHOSITA would understand that there are
do so. Ex. 1015, ¶ 115. This design change does not alter any existing elements of
the original design. Id. Thus, this design change is less than the design changes
66
b. Adding Additional Hole and Radial Slots To The
Bottom Wall of The Cup Holder Would Have Been De
Minimis
The bottom wall of the cup holder of the ‘252 patent has four radial slots.
Adding such radial slots on the round bottom wall of Seidl ‘836 would have been
A DHOSITA would have known that a cup holder may include a few holes
and grooves to drain water. Ex. 1015, ¶117. For example, four holes and radial
groves are shown on the bottom wall of the cup holder in FIG. 1 of Beckerer. Id.
the round bottom wall of the cup holder. First, Seidl ‘836 has three holes shown in
the bottom wall in FIG. 4, thus, Seidl ‘836 already teaches that a cup holder can
have holes on the bottom wall. Ex. 1015, ¶118. Second, as discussed in Seidl ‘836,
“the side wall 126 and bottom wall 128 may include one or more slots or holes
therethrough.” Ex. 1005, ¶ 0032. Thus, adding an additional hole and radial slots
to the bottom of the cup holder of Seidl ‘836 would have been a de minimis change.
This fact was well known to DHOSITAs. Ex. 1015, ¶119. The difference
here involves merely adding radial slots on the bottom wall, especially when a
67
immediately apparent and obvious design reasons to do so. Ex. 1015, ¶ 119. This
design change does not alter any existing elements of the original design. Id.
Thus, this design change is less than the design changes found to be de minimis
The cup holder of the ‘252 patent shows holes and dots on the bottom wall
outside of the cup holder. Ex. 1001, Fig. 4. Adding such dots and holes on the
round bottom wall of Seidl ‘836 would have been a de minimis change to a
A DHOSITA would have known that a cup holder may include a few holes
and grooves to drain water. Ex. 1015, ¶121. The bottom wall in Seidl ‘836 shows
three holes inside of the cup holder. Id. and Ex. 1005, FIG. 4. Further, four holes
are shown on the outside of the cup holder in Beckerer. Ex. 1015, ¶121 and Ex.
1007, Fig. 3. As disclosed in Figs. 1 and 3 of Beckerer, the four holes are shown
both in the inside and on the outside of the round bottom wall of the cup holder.
68
four holes four holes
inside outside
round bottom wall outside of the cup holder. Ex. 1015, ¶122. This would have
been an obvious design modification to a DHOSITA. Id. First, Seidl ‘836 has
three holes shown in the the bottom wall in FIG. 4, thus, Seidl ‘836 already teaches
that a cup holder can have holes on the bottom wall. Ex. 1005. FIG. 3. Second, as
discussed in the Seidl ‘836, “the side wall 126 and bottom wall 128 may include
one or more slots or holes therethrough.” Ex. 1005, ¶ 0032. Thus, adding a first
hole in the center and a second hole to the bottom of the cup holder of Seidl ‘836
Further, in Seidl ‘836, the cup holder 106 includes a light sensitive element
124. Ex. 1015, ¶123 and Ex. 1005, FIG. 3. “The light-sensitive element 124 is
attached to, and extends through the flange 136 at the top end 130 of the body 118
69
of the cup holder 106, in such a manner that a light sensitive surface 140 of the
surface of the flange 136.” Ex. 1005, ¶ 30. Thus, Seidl ‘836 inherently teaches a
functional element, the light-sensitive element 124, disposed in the flange 136. It
which would be illustrated as dots in the flange in the bottom view of Fig. 4 of the
‘252 patent. Ex. 1015, ¶123. In addition, it would be a de minimis change to add
functional elements such as screw/screw holes in the flange, which would also be
illustrated as dots in the flange in the bottom view of Fig. 4 of the ‘252 patent. Ex.
1015, ¶ 123.
This fact was well known to DHOSITAs. Ex. 1015, ¶ 124. The
difference here involves merely adding holes on the bottom wall and dots on the
flange, especially when a DHOSITA would understand that there are functional
reasons or other immediately apparent and obvious design reasons to do so. Ex.
1015, ¶124. This design change does not alter any existing elements of the
original design. Id. Thus, this design change is less than the design changes
70
Both Seidl ‘836 And Bergin are indisputably "so related that the appearance
features to the other." MRC, 747 F.3d at 1334 (Fed. Cir. 1996) (citations omitted);
Ex. 1015, ¶125. Seidl ‘836 And Bergin both relate to cup holder. Ex. 1005, FIG.
6; and Ex. 1008, FIG. 5; and Ex. 1015, ¶ 49. Moreover, Seidl ‘836 And Bergin
both disclose a flange on top of the cup holder, where the flange includes a first
flange section and a second flange section. Ex. 1015, ¶125. Finally, both Seidl
‘836 And Bergin disclose a cup holder to be mounted on a seating structure. Ex.
1015, ¶125.
The cup holder of the ‘252 patent shows a linear structure under the second
curved flange section. It would have been obvious to a DHOSITA to use the linear
structure in Bergin in the design of the primary reference Seidl ‘836. Ex. 1015,
¶126.
71
A DHOSITA would have known that a cup holder may include a second
circular flange section. Ex. 1015, ¶127. Further, a linear feature such as a vertical
ridge or groove or the like can be extended under the second circular flange
section. Id. As disclosed in Bergin, a flange is disposed under the second flange
section and is extended from the top to the bottom of the cup holder. See Ex. 1008.
FIG. 5A.
linear
structure
fixture under the second circular flange section to the cup holder of Seidl ‘836. Ex.
1015, ¶128. This would have been an obvious design modification to a DHOSITA.
First, Seidl ‘836 has a cup holder including a second flange section, where the cup
72
holder is intended to be installed in a furniture piece. Ex. 1015, ¶128. Second, as
adapted to engage a seat structure accommodating the cup holder. See Ex. 1008.
Thus, a DHOSITA would add the linear structure in Bergin to Seidl ‘836 to secure
The above facts were well-known to DHOSITAs. Ex. 1015, ¶128. The
difference here involves merely adding the linear structure under the second
circular flange section to the bottom of the cup holder, especially when a
immediately apparent and obvious design reasons to do so. Ex. 1015, ¶128.
Thus, Bergin would explicitly teach a DHOSITA to add the linear structure
under the second circular flange of the claimed design in the ‘252 patent.
between the first curved flange section and the second curved flange section in the
flange. However, in the event that changing the turning angle is not found to be de
73
Section VII.D, including VIII.D.3, which describes the combination of Seidl ‘836 in
view of Bergin.
Both Seidl ‘836 And Bruce are indisputably "so related that the appearance
features to the other." MRC, 747 F.3d at 1334 (Fed. Cir. 1996) (citations omitted);
Ex. 1015, ¶129. Seidl ‘836 And Bruce both relate to cup holders. Ex. 1005, FIG.
6; and Ex. 1010, FIG. 3A; and Ex. 1015, ¶ 49. Moreover, Seidl ‘836 And Bruce
both disclose a flange on top of the cup holder, where the flange includes a first
The cup holder of the ‘252 patent shows a hard transition between the first
and second curved flange sections. Ex. 1015, ¶ 130. It would have been obvious
to a DHOSITA to use the transition angel in Bruce in the design of the primary
A DHOSITA would have known that a cup holder may include a transition
angel between the first and second flange sections. Ex. 1015, ¶131. Further, the
transition angle can be changed to adapt functional elements in the second circular
flange section. Ex. 1015, ¶132. Bruce specifically teaches that the transition angel
between the first and second flange sections may be a hard transition. See Ex.
74
Hard
transition
angle between the first and second circular flange sections in the cup holder of
and radial slots to the round bottom wall of the cup holder. Ex. 1015, ¶ 134.
However, in the event that adding additional hole and radial slots is not found to be
Both Seidl ‘836 And Beckerer are indisputably "so related that the
those features to the other." MRC, 747 F.3d at 1334 (Fed. Cir. 1996) (citations
omitted); Ex. 1015, ¶134. Seidl ‘836 And Beckerer both relate to cup holders. Ex.
75
1005, FIG. 6; and Ex. 1010, FIG. 3A; and Ex. 1015, ¶134. Moreover, Seidl ‘836
And Beckerer both disclose that the cup holder includes a bottom portion includes
The cup holder of the ‘252 patent shows additional hole and radial slots
that are not explicitly disclosed by Seidl ‘836. It would have been obvious to a
DHOSITA to add additional hole and radial slots in Beckerer into the design of
A DHOSITA would have known that a cup holder may include holes and slots
in view of Seidl ‘836 and Beckerer. Ex. 1015, ¶136. Further, “the side wall 126 and
bottom wall 128 may include one or more slots or holes therethrough.” Ex. 1005, ¶
0032. Beckerer specifically teaches that four holes and radial groves are shown on
the bottom wall of the cup holder in FIG. 1 of Beckerer. Ex. 1007, FIG. 1. See Ex.
1007. FIG. 1.
76
See Ex. 1005. FIG. 4; Ex. 1007. FIG. 1.
and radial slots to the bottom wall of the cup holder of Seidl ‘836 to the claimed
radial groves are shown on the bottom wall of the cup holder in FIG. 3 of
holes and dots to the outside of the cup holder of Seidl ‘836 to the claimed
77
VIII. CONCLUSION
For all of the foregoing reasons, there is at least a reasonable likelihood that
Petitioner will prevail in this challenge to the ‘252 patent. Therefore, Petitioner
respectfully requests that the Board grant Petitioner’s Petition and institute inter
/ Hao Tan /
Hao Tan, Reg. No. 73,711
Arch & Lake LLP
203 N LaSalle Street, Suite 2100
Chicago, IL 60601
Tel. No. 312.375.9408
Fax No. 312.614.1873
HaoTan@archlakelaw.com
78
CERTIFICATE OF WORD COUNT
I hereby certify that the foregoing Petition for Inter partes Review of U.S.
Patent No. D643,252 includes the following number of words (as calculated by
exhibits: 12,691.
/ Hao Tan /
Hao Tan, Reg. No. 73,711
Arch & Lake LLP
203 N LaSalle Street, Suite 2100
Chicago, IL 60601
Tel. No. 312.375.9408
Fax No. 312.614.1873
HaoTan@archlakelaw.com
79
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I hereby certify on January 4, 2019, that a true and correct copy of the Petition
for Inter partes Review of U.S. Patent No. D643,252 was served in its entirety via e-
mail and UPS to the Patent Owner by serving the correspondence address of record
TYLER J. SISK
CASIMIR JONES, S.C.
2275 DEMING WAY STE. 310
MIDDLETON, WI 53562
/ Hao Tan /
Hao Tan, Reg. No. 73,711
Arch & Lake LLP
203 N LaSalle Street, Suite 2100
Chicago, IL 60601
Tel. No. 312.375.9408
Fax No. 312.614.1873
HaoTan@archlakelaw.com
80