DETAILED ACTION
Notice of Pre-AIA or AIA Status
The present application, filed on or after March 16, 2013, is being examined under the first inventor to file provisions of the AIA .
Claim Rejections - 35 USC § 112
The following is a quotation of the first paragraph of 35 U.S.C. 112(a):
(a) IN GENERAL.—The specification shall contain a written description of the invention, and of the manner and process of making and using it, in such full, clear, concise, and exact terms as to enable any person skilled in the art to which it pertains, or with which it is most nearly connected, to make and use the same, and shall set forth the best mode contemplated by the inventor or joint inventor of carrying out the invention.
The following is a quotation of the first paragraph of pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 112:
The specification shall contain a written description of the invention, and of the manner and process of making and using it, in such full, clear, concise, and exact terms as to enable any person skilled in the art to which it pertains, or with which it is most nearly connected, to make and use the same, and shall set forth the best mode contemplated by the inventor of carrying out his invention.
Claims 1-10, 13, 16-19 are rejected under 35 U.S.C. 112(a) or 35 U.S.C. 112 (pre-AIA ), first paragraph, as failing to comply with the written description requirement. The claim(s) contains subject matter which was not described in the specification in such a way as to reasonably convey to one skilled in the relevant art that the inventor or a joint inventor, or for applications subject to pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 112, the inventor(s), at the time the application was filed, had possession of the claimed invention.
Claim 1 recites “the first and second lead-out portions include anchor portions” contains subject matter which was not described in the specification in such a way as to reasonably convey to one skilled in the relevant art that the inventor or a joint inventor, or for applications subject to pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 112, the inventor(s), at the time the application was filed, had possession of the claimed invention. According to the specification and figures, “the first lead-out portion” includes “an anchor portion” and “the second lead-out portion” includes “an anchor portion”. The current claim limitations appear to state that each “the first and second lead-out portions” includes “anchor portions”.
Claim 17 recites “the first and second lead-out portions include anchor portions” contains subject matter which was not described in the specification in such a way as to reasonably convey to one skilled in the relevant art that the inventor or a joint inventor, or for applications subject to pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 112, the inventor(s), at the time the application was filed, had possession of the claimed invention. According to the specification and figures, “the first lead-out portion” includes “an anchor portion” and “the second lead-out portion” includes “an anchor portion”. The current claim limitations appear to state that each “the first and second lead-out portions” includes “anchor portions”.
The following is a quotation of 35 U.S.C. 112(b):
(b) CONCLUSION.—The specification shall conclude with one or more claims particularly pointing out and distinctly claiming the subject matter which the inventor or a joint inventor regards as the invention.
The following is a quotation of 35 U.S.C. 112 (pre-AIA ), second paragraph:
The specification shall conclude with one or more claims particularly pointing out and distinctly claiming the subject matter which the applicant regards as his invention.
Claims 1-10, 13, 16-19 are rejected under 35 U.S.C. 112(b) or 35 U.S.C. 112 (pre-AIA ), second paragraph, as being indefinite for failing to particularly point out and distinctly claim the subject matter which the inventor or a joint inventor (or for applications subject to pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 112, the applicant), regards as the invention.
Claim 1 recites “the first and second lead-out portions include anchor portions protruding further toward the third and fourth surfaces of the body than other regions of the first and second lead-out portions, respectively” is indefinite and unclear regarding the claim limitations “the first and second lead-out portions include anchor portions”. The current claim limitations appear to state that each “the first and second lead-out portions” includes “anchor portions” while “the first lead-out portion” should just have “an anchor portion” and “the second lead-out portion” should just have “an anchor portion” based on the specification and figures.
Claim 17 recites “the first and second lead-out portions include anchor portions protruding further toward the third and fourth surfaces of the body than other regions of the first and second lead-out portions, respectively” is indefinite and unclear regarding the claim limitations “the first and second lead-out portions include anchor portions”. The current claim limitations appear to state that each “the first and second lead-out portions” includes “anchor portions” while “the first lead-out portion” should just have “an anchor portion” and “the second lead-out portion” should just have “an anchor portion” based on the specification and figures.
Claim Rejections - 35 USC § 102
In the event the determination of the status of the application as subject to AIA 35 U.S.C. 102 and 103 (or as subject to pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 102 and 103) is incorrect, any correction of the statutory basis (i.e., changing from AIA to pre-AIA ) for the rejection will not be considered a new ground of rejection if the prior art relied upon, and the rationale supporting the rejection, would be the same under either status.
The following is a quotation of the appropriate paragraphs of 35 U.S.C. 102 that form the basis for the rejections under this section made in this Office action:
A person shall be entitled to a patent unless –
(a)(1) the claimed invention was patented, described in a printed publication, or in public use, on sale, or otherwise available to the public before the effective filing date of the claimed invention.
Claim(s) 17-19 is/are rejected under 35 U.S.C. 102(a)(1) as being anticipated by Li et al. [U.S. Pub. No. 2020/0357565].
Regarding Claim 17, Li et al. shows a coil component (Figs. 1-2 and Drawings A and C below) comprising:
a body (50) having first (103) and second (104) surfaces opposing each other in a first direction (Z-direction), and third (101) and fourth (102) surfaces connecting the first and second surfaces to each other (see Figs. 1-2) and opposing each other in a second direction (X-direction);
a substrate (23) disposed in the body (see Figs. 1-2);
a coil unit (42, 44) disposed on the substrate (see Figs. 1-2), and including a coil pattern (42, 44), lead-out portions (lead-out portion L which represents elements 62, 64, see Drawing A below) connected to the coil pattern (see Figs. 1-2 and Drawing A below) and extending to the first surface (103) of the body (see Figs. 1-2 and Drawing A below), and sub lead-out portions (sub lead-out portion S which represents partial elements 63, 65, see Drawing A below) spaced apart from the coil pattern (see Figs. 1-2 and Drawing A below), the lead-out portions and the sub lead-out portions opposing each other, respectively, with respect to the substrate (see Figs. 1-2 and Drawing A below, lead-out portion L which represents element 62 and sub lead-out portion S which represents partial element 63 opposing each other with respect to element 23; lead-out portion L which represents element 64 and sub lead-out portion S which represents partial element 65 opposing each other with respect to element 23); and
external electrodes (851, 852) disposed on the first surface (103) of the body (see Figs. 1-2) and connected to the lead-out portions, respectively (see Figs. 1-2),
wherein a maximum size of each of the lead-out portions in the second direction is greater than a maximum size of each of the sub lead-out portions in the second direction (see Fig. 2 and Drawing A below, wherein a maximum size of the lead-out portion L which represents elements 62, 64 is greater than a maximum size of the sub lead-out portion S which represents partial elements 63, 65 in the X-direction),
wherein the first and second lead-out portions (lead-out portion L which represents elements 62, 64, see Drawing A below) include anchor portions (anchor portion AP which represents elements 62, 64, see Drawing C below) protruding further toward the third and fourth surfaces of the body than other regions of the first and second lead-out portions, respectively (anchor portion AP of element 62 protrudes further toward element 101 than other regions such as region A, region B of element 62 and anchor portion AP of element 64 protrudes further toward element 102 than other regions such as region A, region B of element 64, see Drawings A and C below), and
wherein the anchor portions of the first and second lead-out portions protrude further in a direction from the first surface toward the second surface of the body than the other regions of the first and second lead-out portions (topmost portion of anchor portion AP of element 62 protrude further in a direction from element 103 toward element 104 than other regions such as region A, region B of element 62 and topmost portion of anchor portion AP of element 64 protrude further in a direction from element 103 toward element 104 than other regions such as region A, region B of element 64, see Drawings A and C below).
Regarding Claim 18, Li et al. shows each of the sub lead-out portions occupies a smaller volume within the body than each of the lead-out portions (see Figs. 1-2 and Drawing A below, sub lead-out portion S which represents partial elements 63, 65 occupies a smaller volume within element 50 than lead-out portion L which represents elements 62, 64).
Regarding Claim 19, Li et al. shows (see Fig. 2 and see Drawings A-B below) each of the lead-out portions (lead-out portion L which represents elements 62, 64, see Drawing A below) a first region (region R1, see Drawing B below) and a second region (region R2), the second region having a smaller size in the second direction and being closer to the first surface of the body than the first region (see Fig. 2 and Drawings A-B below, region R2 have a smaller size in the X-direction and being closer to element 103 than region R1).
Claim(s) 1, 5, 8-10, 13, and 16 is/are rejected under 35 U.S.C. 102(a)(1) as being anticipated by Kim et al. [KR 102191248 B1].
Regarding Claim 1, Kim et al. shows a coil component (Figs. 1-3 and Drawings 2 and 5 below) comprising:
a body (100) having first (105) and second (106) surfaces opposing each other in a first direction (Z-direction), and third (102) and fourth (101) surfaces connecting the first and second surfaces to each other (see Figs. 1-3) and opposing each other in a second direction (X-direction);
a substrate (210) disposed in the body (see Figs. 1-3);
a coil unit (310, 320) disposed on the substrate (see Figs. 1-3), and including a coil pattern (310, 320), first and second lead-out portions (lead-out portion L which represents element 410 combined with element 510; and element 420 combined with element 520, see Drawing 2 below) connected to the coil pattern (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below) and contacting the first surface (105) of the body while being spaced apart from the third (102) and fourth (101) surfaces of the body (100, see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below), respectively, and sub lead-out portions (sub lead-out portion S which represents elements 610, 620, see Drawing 2 below) spaced apart from the coil pattern (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below); and
external electrodes (810, 820) disposed on the first surface (105) of the body (see Figs. 1-3) and connected to the lead-out portions, respectively (see Figs. 1-3),
wherein each of the sub lead-out portions occupies a smaller volume within the body than each of the lead-out portions (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below, sub lead-out portion S which represents elements 610, 620 occupies a smaller volume within element 100 than lead-out portion L which represents element 410 combined with element 510; and element 420 combined with element 520),
wherein the first and second lead-out portions (lead-out portion L which represents element 410 combined with element 510; and element 420 combined with element 520, see Drawing 2 below) include anchor portions (anchor portion AP which represents elements 4101, 4201, see Drawing 5 below) protruding further toward the third and fourth surfaces of the body than other regions of the first and second lead-out portions, respectively (anchor portion AP of element 4101 protrudes further toward element 102 than other regions such as region A, region B of element 410 combined with element 510 and anchor portion AP of element 4201 protrudes further toward element 101 than other regions such as region A, region B of element 420 combined with element 520, see Drawings 2 and 5 below), and
wherein the anchor portions of the first and second lead-out portions protrude further in a direction from the first surface toward the second surface of the body than the other regions of the first and second lead-out portions (anchor portion AP of element 4101 protrude further in a direction from element 105 toward element 106 than other regions such as region A, region B of element 410 combined with element 510 and anchor portion AP of element 4201 protrude further in a direction from element 105 toward element 106 than other regions such as region A, region B of element 420 combined with element 520, see Drawings 2 and 5 below).
Regarding Claim 5, Kim et al. shows each of the lead-out portions (lead-out portions L) and the sub lead-out portions (sub lead-out portions S) has an outer surface (bottom surface) contacting the first surface (105) of the body (100, see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below), and an inner surface (top surface) opposing the outer surface (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below), and a maximum size in the first direction from the first surface of the body to the inner surface of each of the sub lead-out portions is smaller than a minimum size in the first direction from the first surface of the body to the inner surface of each of the lead-out portions (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below, a maximum size in the Z-direction from element 105 to the top surface of each sub lead-out portions S is smaller than a minimum size in the Z-direction from element 105 to the top surface of lead-out portions L).
Regarding Claim 8, Kim et al. shows each of the lead-out portions has a cross-sectional area that decreases in an inward direction of the body from the third or fourth surface of the body (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below, lead-out portion L which represents element 410 combined with element 510 has a cross-sectional area that decreases in an inward direction of the body from element 101 and lead-out portion L which represents element 420 combined with element 520 has a cross-sectional area that decreases in an inward direction of the body from element 102), based on a cross section thereof perpendicular to the second direction (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below).
Regarding Claim 9, Kim et al. shows each of the sub lead-out portions has a cross-sectional area that is substantially constant in the second direction (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawings 2-3 below, sub lead-out portions S has a cross-sectional area that is substantially constant in the X-direction), based on a cross section thereof perpendicular to the second direction (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawings 2-3 below).
Regarding Claim 10, Kim et al. shows a cross-sectional area of each of the lead-out portions included in the first surface of the body is substantially the same as a cross-sectional area of each of the sub lead-out portions included in the first surface of the body (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below, a cross-sectional area of each of the lead-out portions L included in element 105 is substantially the same as a cross-sectional area of each of the sub lead-out portions S included in element 105).
Regarding Claim 13, Kim et al. shows the coil unit further includes sub vias (710, 720) penetrating through the substrate (210) to connect the lead-out portions and the sub lead-out portions to each other (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawings 2-3 below).
Regarding Claim 16, Kim et al. shows the coil unit includes first (310) and second (320) coil patterns disposed on opposite surfaces of the substrate (see Figs. 1-3), respectively, and further includes a via (120) penetrating through the substrate (210) to connect the first and second coil patterns to each other (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawings 2-3 below).
Claim Rejections - 35 USC § 103
In the event the determination of the status of the application as subject to AIA 35 U.S.C. 102 and 103 (or as subject to pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 102 and 103) is incorrect, any correction of the statutory basis (i.e., changing from AIA to pre-AIA ) for the rejection will not be considered a new ground of rejection if the prior art relied upon, and the rationale supporting the rejection, would be the same under either status.
The following is a quotation of 35 U.S.C. 103 which forms the basis for all obviousness rejections set forth in this Office action:
A patent for a claimed invention may not be obtained, notwithstanding that the claimed invention is not identically disclosed as set forth in section 102, if the differences between the claimed invention and the prior art are such that the claimed invention as a whole would have been obvious before the effective filing date of the claimed invention to a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the claimed invention pertains. Patentability shall not be negated by the manner in which the invention was made.
Claim(s) 2-4 and 9 is/are rejected under 35 U.S.C. 103 as being unpatentable over Kim et al. in view of Hong et al. [U.S. Pub. No. 2020/0051727].
Regarding Claim 2, Kim et al. shows the claimed invention as applied above but does not show each of the sub lead-out portions has a cross section in a rectangular shape, in a cut view perpendicular to the first, second, third, and fourth surfaces of the body.
Hong et al. shows an inductor (Figs. 1-4) teaching and suggesting each of the sub lead-out portions (12, Paragraph [0018], claim 13) has a cross section in a rectangular shape (see Fig. 4, Paragraph [0018], claim 13), in a cut view perpendicular to the first, second, third, and fourth surfaces (bottom, top, right, left surfaces) of the body (1, see Figs. 1-4).
Before the effective filing date of the claimed invention, it would have been obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art to have each of the sub lead-out portions has a cross section in a rectangular shape, in a cut view perpendicular to the first, second, third, and fourth surfaces of the body as taught by Hong et al. for coil component as disclosed by Kim et al. to simplified design to reduce manufacture time and cost and achieve desirable mechanical stability so that connectivity between external electrodes is enhanced to reinforce structural strength (Paragraph [0050]).
Regarding Claim 3, Kim et al. shows a ratio of a cross-sectional area of each of the sub lead-out portions (area A2, see Drawing 3 below) to a cross-sectional area of each of the lead-out portions (area A1+area A3, see Drawing 3 below) is more than 0.45 and less than 1 (see Drawings 2-3 below, area A2 and area A1 is the same and area A3 is less than area A1, area A3 can be about 30%-50% of area A1, therefore a ratio of A2/(A1+A3) is about 0.76 to 0.66 which is within range).
It is noted that Drawings and pictures can anticipate claims if they clearly show the structure which is claimed. In re Mraz, 455 F.2d 1069, 173 USPQ 25 (CCPA 1972). However, the picture must show all the claimed structural features and how they are put together. Jockmus v. Leviton, 28 F.2d 812 (2d Cir. 1928). The origin of the drawing is immaterial. For instance, drawings in a design patent can anticipate or make obvious the claimed invention as can drawings in utility patents. When the reference is a utility patent, it does not matter that the feature shown is unintended or unexplained in the specification. The drawings must be evaluated for what they reasonably disclose and suggest to one of ordinary skill in the art. In re Aslanian, 590 F.2d 911, 200 USPQ 500 (CCPA 1979). See MPEP § 2125.I for more information on prior art drawings as “enabled disclosures”.
Moreover, it would have been obvious to one having ordinary skill in the art at the time the invention was made to have a ratio of a cross-sectional area of each of the sub lead-out portions to a cross-sectional area of each of the lead-out portions is more than 0.45 and less than 1 improves adhesion strength between a lead-out portion and a body and prevents a portion of a metal, constituting the lead-out portion, from being pushed to a surface of the body, since it has been held that where the general conditions of a claim are disclosed in the prior art, discovering the optimum or workable ranges involves only routine skill in the art. In re Aller, 105 USPQ 233.
Regarding Claim 4, Kim et al. shows the body (100) further has fifth (103) and sixth (104) surfaces connected to the first, second, third, and fourth surfaces (105, 106, 101, 102) and opposing each other in a third direction (Y-direction), the cross-sectional area of each of the lead-out portions (lead-out portions L) is an area of a cross section of each of the lead-out portions taken at a central portion thereof in the third direction in parallel to the fifth surface of the body (see Drawings 2-3 below), and the cross-sectional area of each of the sub lead-out portions (sub lead-out portions S) is an area of a cross section of each of the sub lead-out portions taken at a central portion thereof in the third direction in parallel to the fifth surface of the body (see Drawings 2-3 below).
Regarding Claim 9, Kim et al. shows the claimed invention as applied above.
In addition, Hong et al. shows each of the sub lead-out portions (12, Paragraph [0018], claim 13) has a cross-sectional area that is substantially constant in the second direction (see Figs. 1-4, elements 12 has a cross-sectional area that is substantially constant in the L-direction), based on a cross section thereof perpendicular to the second direction (see Figs. 1-4).
Before the effective filing date of the claimed invention, it would have been obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art to have each of the sub lead-out portions has a cross-sectional area that is substantially constant in the second direction, based on a cross section thereof perpendicular to the second direction as taught by Hong et al. for coil component as disclosed by Kim et al. to simplified design to reduce manufacture time and cost and achieve desirable mechanical stability so that connectivity between external electrodes is enhanced to reinforce structural strength (Paragraph [0050]).
Claim(s) 6 is/are rejected under 35 U.S.C. 102(a)(1) as anticipated by or, in the alternative, under 35 U.S.C. 103 as obvious over Kim et al.
Regarding Claim 6, Kim et al. shows (see Drawing 4 below) a ratio of the maximum size (T2) in the first direction from the first surface of the body to the inner surface of each of the sub lead-out portions to the minimum size (T1) in the first direction from the first surface of the body to the inner surface of each of the lead-out portions is more than 0.5 and less than 1 (see Drawing 4 below, taking a measurement of T2 and T1, T2 is about 0.5 cm and T1 is about 0.9 cm, therefore a ratio T2/T1 is about 0.55).
It is noted that Drawings and pictures can anticipate claims if they clearly show the structure which is claimed. In re Mraz, 455 F.2d 1069, 173 USPQ 25 (CCPA 1972). However, the picture must show all the claimed structural features and how they are put together. Jockmus v. Leviton, 28 F.2d 812 (2d Cir. 1928). The origin of the drawing is immaterial. For instance, drawings in a design patent can anticipate or make obvious the claimed invention as can drawings in utility patents. When the reference is a utility patent, it does not matter that the feature shown is unintended or unexplained in the specification. The drawings must be evaluated for what they reasonably disclose and suggest to one of ordinary skill in the art. In re Aslanian, 590 F.2d 911, 200 USPQ 500 (CCPA 1979). See MPEP § 2125.I for more information on prior art drawings as “enabled disclosures”.
Moreover, in the case where Kim et al. does not anticipate, it would have been obvious to one having ordinary skill in the art at the time the invention was made to have a ratio of the maximum size in the first direction from the first surface of the body to the inner surface of each of the sub lead-out portions to the minimum size in the first direction from the first surface of the body to the inner surface of each of the lead-out portions is more than 0.5 and less than 1 to improves adhesion strength between a lead-out portion and a body and prevents a portion of a metal, constituting the lead-out portion, from being pushed to a surface of the body, since it has been held that where the general conditions of a claim are disclosed in the prior art, discovering the optimum or workable ranges involves only routine skill in the art. In re Aller, 105 USPQ 233.
Claim(s) 7-8 is/are rejected under 35 U.S.C. 103 as being unpatentable over Kim et al. in view of Choi et al. [KR 101532171].
Regarding Claim 7, Kim et al. shows the claimed invention as applied above but does not show the inner surface of each of the lead-out portions includes a curved surface.
Choi et al. shows an inductor (Fig. 2) teaching and suggesting the inner surface of each of the lead-out portions (22, 32, as represented by element 22 in Fig. 2) includes a curved surface (see Fig. 2).
Before the effective filing date of the claimed invention, it would have been obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art to have the inner surface of each of the lead-out portions includes a curved surface as taught by Choi et al. for coil component as disclosed by Kim et al. to achieve desirable mechanical stability so that connectivity between the coils and external electrodes is enhanced to reinforce structural strength for good performance and desirable inductance (see English translation).
Regarding Claim 8, Kim et al. shows the claimed invention as applied above
In addition, Choi et al. shows each of the lead-out portions has a cross-sectional area that decreases in an inward direction of the body from the third or fourth surface of the body (see Fig. 2, element 22 has a cross-sectional area that decreases in an inward direction of the body from the right surface and element 32 has a cross-sectional area that decreases in an inward direction of the body from the left surface), based on a cross section thereof perpendicular to the second direction (see Fig. 2).
Before the effective filing date of the claimed invention, it would have been obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art to have each of the lead-out portions has a cross-sectional area that decreases in an inward direction of the body from the third or fourth surface of the body, based on a cross section thereof perpendicular to the second direction as taught by Choi et al. for coil component as disclosed by Kim et al. to achieve desirable mechanical stability so that connectivity between the coils and external electrodes is enhanced to reinforce structural strength for good performance and desirable inductance (see English translation).
Claim(s) 7-8 and 10 is/are rejected under 35 U.S.C. 103 as being unpatentable over Kim et al. in view of Odahara [U.S. Pub. No. 2014/0078643].
Regarding Claim 7, Kim et al. shows the claimed invention as applied above but does not show the inner surface of each of the lead-out portions includes a curved surface.
Odahara shows an inductor (Fig. 2) teaching and suggesting the inner surface of each of the lead-out portions (22, 26) includes a curved surface (see Fig. 2, elements 22, 26 includes a curved surface).
Before the effective filing date of the claimed invention, it would have been obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art to have the inner surface of each of the lead-out portions includes a curved surface as taught by Odahara for coil component as disclosed by Kim et al. to facilitate electrical connection with via-hole conductors and achieve desirable mechanical stability so that connectivity can be enhanced obtaining desirable operating characteristics and inductances (Paragraphs [0042]-[0043]).
Regarding Claim 8, Kim et al. shows the claimed invention as applied above.
In addition, Odahara shows each of the lead-out portions has a cross-sectional area that decreases in an inward direction of the body from the third or fourth surface of the body (see Fig. 2, element 22 has a cross-sectional area that decreases in an inward direction of the body from the right surface and element 26 has a cross-sectional area that decreases in an inward direction of the body from the left surface), based on a cross section thereof perpendicular to the second direction (see Fig. 2).
Before the effective filing date of the claimed invention, it would have been obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art to have each of the lead-out portions has a cross-sectional area that decreases in an inward direction of the body from the third or fourth surface of the body, based on a cross section thereof perpendicular to the second direction as taught by Odahara for coil component as disclosed by Kim et al. to facilitate electrical connection with via-hole conductors and achieve desirable mechanical stability so that connectivity can be enhanced obtaining desirable operating characteristics and inductances (Paragraphs [0042]-[0043]).
Regarding Claim 10, Kim et al. shows the claimed invention as applied above.
In addition, Odahara shows a cross-sectional area of each of the lead-out portions included in the first surface of the body is substantially the same as a cross-sectional area of each of the sub lead-out portions included in the first surface of the body (see Fig. 3A, a cross-sectional area of elements 22, 26 included in element S1 is substantially the same as a cross-sectional area of each of elements 20e, 24c included in element S1).
Before the effective filing date of the claimed invention, it would have been obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art to have a cross-sectional area of each of the lead-out portions included in the first surface of the body is substantially the same as a cross-sectional area of each of the sub lead-out portions included in the first surface of the body as taught by Odahara for coil component as disclosed by Kim et al. to simplified design to facilitate electrical connection with external electrodes and achieve desirable mechanical stability so that connectivity can be enhanced obtaining desirable operating characteristics and inductances (Paragraphs [0042]-[0043]).
Claim(s) 1, 5, 7-10, 13, and 16 is/are rejected under 35 U.S.C. 103 as being unpatentable over Kim et al. [KR 102191248 B1] in view of Choi et al. [KR 101532171].
Regarding Claim 1, Kim et al. shows a coil component (Figs. 1-3 and Drawings 2 and 5 below) comprising:
a body (100) having first (105) and second (106) surfaces opposing each other in a first direction (Z-direction), and third (102) and fourth (101) surfaces connecting the first and second surfaces to each other (see Figs. 1-3) and opposing each other in a second direction (X-direction);
a substrate (210) disposed in the body (see Figs. 1-3);
a coil unit (310, 320) disposed on the substrate (see Figs. 1-3), and including a coil pattern (310, 320), first and second lead-out portions (lead-out portion L which represents element 410 combined with element 510; and element 420 combined with element 520, see Drawing 2 below) connected to the coil pattern (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below) and contacting the first surface (105) of the body while being spaced apart from the third (102) and fourth (101) surfaces of the body (100, see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below), respectively, and sub lead-out portions (sub lead-out portion S which represents elements 610, 620, see Drawing 2 below) spaced apart from the coil pattern (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below); and
external electrodes (810, 820) disposed on the first surface (105) of the body (see Figs. 1-3) and connected to the lead-out portions, respectively (see Figs. 1-3),
wherein each of the sub lead-out portions occupies a smaller volume within the body than each of the lead-out portions (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below, sub lead-out portion S which represents elements 610, 620 occupies a smaller volume within element 100 than lead-out portion L which represents element 410 combined with element 510; and element 420 combined with element 520),
wherein the first and second lead-out portions (lead-out portion L which represents element 410 combined with element 510; and element 420 combined with element 520, see Drawing 2 below) include anchor portions (anchor portion AP which represents elements 4101, 4201, see Drawing 5 below) protruding further toward the third and fourth surfaces of the body than other regions of the first and second lead-out portions, respectively (anchor portion AP of element 4101 protrudes further toward element 102 than other regions such as region A, region B of element 410 combined with element 510 and anchor portion AP of element 4201 protrudes further toward element 101 than other regions such as region A, region B of element 420 combined with element 520, see Drawings 2 and 5 below), and
wherein the anchor portions of the first and second lead-out portions protrude further in a direction from the first surface toward the second surface of the body than the other regions of the first and second lead-out portions (anchor portion AP of element 4101 protrude further in a direction from element 105 toward element 106 than other regions such as region A, region B of element 410 combined with element 510 and anchor portion AP of element 4201 protrude further in a direction from element 105 toward element 106 than other regions such as region A, region B of element 420 combined with element 520, see Drawings 2 and 5 below).
Furthermore, Choi et al. shows an inductor (Fig. 2 and Drawing I below) teaching and suggesting the first and second lead-out portions (lead-out portion L which represents elements 22, 32, see Drawing I below) include anchor portions (anchor portion AP which represents elements 22, 32, see Drawing I below) protruding further toward the third and fourth surfaces of the body than other regions of the first and second lead-out portions, respectively (anchor portion AP of element 22 protrudes further toward right surface than other regions of element 22 and anchor portion AP of element 32 protrudes further toward left surface than other regions of element 32, see Drawing I below), and wherein the anchor portions of the first and second lead-out portions protrude further in a direction from the first surface toward the second surface of the body than the other regions of the first and second lead-out portions (anchor portion AP of element 22 protrude further in a direction from bottom surface toward top surface than other regions of element 22 and anchor portion AP of element 32 protrude further in a direction from bottom surface toward top surface than other regions of element 32, see Drawing I below).
Before the effective filing date of the claimed invention, it would have been obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art to have the first and second lead-out portions include anchor portions protruding further toward the third and fourth surfaces of the body than other regions of the first and second lead-out portions, respectively, and wherein the anchor portions of the first and second lead-out portions protrude further in a direction from the first surface toward the second surface of the body than the other regions of the first and second lead-out portions as taught by Choi et al. for coil component as disclosed by Kim et al. to achieve desirable mechanical stability so that connectivity between the coils and external electrodes is enhanced to reinforce structural strength for good performance and desirable inductance (see English translation).
Regarding Claim 5, Kim et al. shows each of the lead-out portions (lead-out portions L) and the sub lead-out portions (sub lead-out portions S) has an outer surface (bottom surface) contacting the first surface (105) of the body (100, see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below), and an inner surface (top surface) opposing the outer surface (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below), and a maximum size in the first direction from the first surface of the body to the inner surface of each of the sub lead-out portions is smaller than a minimum size in the first direction from the first surface of the body to the inner surface of each of the lead-out portions (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below, a maximum size in the Z-direction from element 105 to the top surface of each sub lead-out portions S is smaller than a minimum size in the Z-direction from element 105 to the top surface of lead-out portions L).
Regarding Claim 7, Choi et al. shows an inductor (Fig. 2) teaching and suggesting the inner surface of each of the lead-out portions (22, 32, as represented by element 22 in Fig. 2) includes a curved surface (see Fig. 2).
Regarding Claim 8, Kim et al. shows each of the lead-out portions has a cross-sectional area that decreases in an inward direction of the body from the third or fourth surface of the body (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below, lead-out portion L which represents element 410 combined with element 510 has a cross-sectional area that decreases in an inward direction of the body from element 101 and lead-out portion L which represents element 420 combined with element 520 has a cross-sectional area that decreases in an inward direction of the body from element 102), based on a cross section thereof perpendicular to the second direction (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below).
Choi et al. shows each of the lead-out portions has a cross-sectional area that decreases in an inward direction of the body from the third or fourth surface of the body (see Fig. 2, element 22 has a cross-sectional area that decreases in an inward direction of the body from the right surface and element 32 has a cross-sectional area that decreases in an inward direction of the body from the left surface), based on a cross section thereof perpendicular to the second direction (see Fig. 2).
Regarding Claim 9, Kim et al. shows each of the sub lead-out portions has a cross-sectional area that is substantially constant in the second direction (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawings 2-3 below, sub lead-out portions S has a cross-sectional area that is substantially constant in the X-direction), based on a cross section thereof perpendicular to the second direction (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawings 2-3 below).
Regarding Claim 10, Kim et al. shows a cross-sectional area of each of the lead-out portions included in the first surface of the body is substantially the same as a cross-sectional area of each of the sub lead-out portions included in the first surface of the body (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below, a cross-sectional area of each of the lead-out portions L included in element 105 is substantially the same as a cross-sectional area of each of the sub lead-out portions S included in element 105).
Regarding Claim 13, Kim et al. shows the coil unit further includes sub vias (710, 720) penetrating through the substrate (210) to connect the lead-out portions and the sub lead-out portions to each other (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawings 2-3 below).
Regarding Claim 16, Kim et al. shows the coil unit includes first (310) and second (320) coil patterns disposed on opposite surfaces of the substrate (see Figs. 1-3), respectively, and further includes a via (120) penetrating through the substrate (210) to connect the first and second coil patterns to each other (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawings 2-3 below).
Claim(s) 1, 5, 7-10, 13, and 16 is/are rejected under 35 U.S.C. 103 as being unpatentable over Choi et al. [KR 101532171] in view of Kim et al. [KR 102191248 B1].
Regarding Claim 1, Choi et al. shows a coil component (Figs. 1-2 and Drawing I below) comprising:
a body (11) having first (bottom surface) and second (top surface) surfaces opposing each other in a first direction (up-down direction or y-direction), and third (right surface) and fourth (left surface) surfaces connecting the first and second surfaces (see Fig. 2 and Drawing I below) to each other and opposing each other in a second direction (left-right direction or x-direction, see Fig. 2 and Drawing I below);
a substrate (40) disposed in the body (see Fig. 1);
a coil unit (20, 30) disposed on the substrate (see Figs. 1-2), and including a coil pattern (20 or 30), first and second lead-out portions (lead-out portion L which represents elements 22, 32, see Drawing I below) connected to the coil pattern (see Figs. 1-2 and Drawing I below) and contacting the first surface (bottom surface) of the body while being spaced apart from the third (right surface) and fourth (left surface) surfaces of the body, respectively (see Figs. 1-2 and Drawing I below); and
external electrodes (51, 52) disposed on the first surface (bottom surface) of the body and connected to the lead-out portions, respectively (see Figs. 1-2 and Drawing I below),
wherein the first and second lead-out portions (lead-out portion L which represents elements 22, 32, see Drawing I below) include anchor portions (anchor portion AP which represents elements 22, 32, see Drawing I below) protruding further toward the third and fourth surfaces of the body than other regions of the first and second lead-out portions, respectively (anchor portion AP of element 22 protrudes further toward right surface than other regions of element 22 and anchor portion AP of element 32 protrudes further toward left surface than other regions of element 32, see Drawing I below), and
wherein the anchor portions of the first and second lead-out portions protrude further in a direction from the first surface toward the second surface of the body than the other regions of the first and second lead-out portions (anchor portion AP of element 22 protrude further in a direction from bottom surface toward top surface than other regions of element 22 and anchor portion AP of element 32 protrude further in a direction from bottom surface toward top surface than other regions of element 32, see Drawing I below).
Choi et al. does not explicitly show sub lead-out portions spaced apart from the coil pattern and each of the sub lead-out portions occupies a smaller volume within the body than each of the lead-out portions.
Kim et al. shows a coil component (Figs. 1-3 and Drawings 2 and 5 below) comprising:
a body (100) having first (105) and second (106) surfaces opposing each other in a first direction (Z-direction), and third (102) and fourth (101) surfaces connecting the first and second surfaces to each other (see Figs. 1-3) and opposing each other in a second direction (X-direction); a substrate (210) disposed in the body (see Figs. 1-3); a coil unit (310, 320) disposed on the substrate (see Figs. 1-3), and including a coil pattern (310, 320), first and second lead-out portions (lead-out portion L which represents element 410 combined with element 510; and element 420 combined with element 520, see Drawing 2 below) connected to the coil pattern (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below) and contacting the first surface (105) of the body while being spaced apart from the third (102) and fourth (101) surfaces of the body (100, see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below), respectively, and sub lead-out portions (sub lead-out portion S which represents elements 610, 620, see Drawing 2 below) spaced apart from the coil pattern (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below); and external electrodes (810, 820) disposed on the first surface (105) of the body (see Figs. 1-3) and connected to the lead-out portions, respectively (see Figs. 1-3), wherein each of the sub lead-out portions occupies a smaller volume within the body than each of the lead-out portions (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below, sub lead-out portion S which represents elements 610, 620 occupies a smaller volume within element 100 than lead-out portion L which represents element 410 combined with element 510; and element 420 combined with element 520), wherein the first and second lead-out portions (lead-out portion L which represents element 410 combined with element 510; and element 420 combined with element 520, see Drawing 2 below) include anchor portions (anchor portion AP which represents elements 4101, 4201, see Drawing 5 below) protruding further toward the third and fourth surfaces of the body than other regions of the first and second lead-out portions, respectively (anchor portion AP of element 4101 protrudes further toward element 102 than other regions such as region A, region B of element 410 combined with element 510 and anchor portion AP of element 4201 protrudes further toward element 101 than other regions such as region A, region B of element 420 combined with element 520, see Drawings 2 and 5 below), and wherein the anchor portions of the first and second lead-out portions protrude further in a direction from the first surface toward the second surface of the body than the other regions of the first and second lead-out portions (anchor portion AP of element 4101 protrude further in a direction from element 105 toward element 106 than other regions such as region A, region B of element 410 combined with element 510 and anchor portion AP of element 4201 protrude further in a direction from element 105 toward element 106 than other regions such as region A, region B of element 420 combined with element 520, see Drawings 2 and 5 below).
Before the effective filing date of the claimed invention, it would have been obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art to have sub lead-out portions spaced apart from the coil pattern and each of the sub lead-out portions occupies a smaller volume within the body than each of the lead-out portions as taught by Kim et al. for coil component as disclosed by Choi et al. to reduce manufacture cost and weight while having connection reliability and structural rigidity of the portion where the coil unit and external electrodes are connected are enhanced (Paragraph [0013]) and improve adhesion strength (Paragraphs [0068], [0097]).
Regarding Claim 5, Kim et al. shows each of the lead-out portions (lead-out portions L) and the sub lead-out portions (sub lead-out portions S) has an outer surface (bottom surface) contacting the first surface (105) of the body (100, see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below), and an inner surface (top surface) opposing the outer surface (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below), and a maximum size in the first direction from the first surface of the body to the inner surface of each of the sub lead-out portions is smaller than a minimum size in the first direction from the first surface of the body to the inner surface of each of the lead-out portions (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below, a maximum size in the Z-direction from element 105 to the top surface of each sub lead-out portions S is smaller than a minimum size in the Z-direction from element 105 to the top surface of lead-out portions L).
Regarding Claim 7, Choi et al. shows an inductor (Fig. 2) teaching and suggesting the inner surface of each of the lead-out portions (22, 32, as represented by element 22 in Fig. 2) includes a curved surface (see Fig. 2).
Regarding Claim 8, Kim et al. shows each of the lead-out portions has a cross-sectional area that decreases in an inward direction of the body from the third or fourth surface of the body (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below, lead-out portion L which represents element 410 combined with element 510 has a cross-sectional area that decreases in an inward direction of the body from element 101 and lead-out portion L which represents element 420 combined with element 520 has a cross-sectional area that decreases in an inward direction of the body from element 102), based on a cross section thereof perpendicular to the second direction (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below).
Choi et al. shows each of the lead-out portions has a cross-sectional area that decreases in an inward direction of the body from the third or fourth surface of the body (see Fig. 2, element 22 has a cross-sectional area that decreases in an inward direction of the body from the right surface and element 32 has a cross-sectional area that decreases in an inward direction of the body from the left surface), based on a cross section thereof perpendicular to the second direction (see Fig. 2).
Regarding Claim 9, Kim et al. shows each of the sub lead-out portions has a cross-sectional area that is substantially constant in the second direction (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawings 2-3 below, sub lead-out portions S has a cross-sectional area that is substantially constant in the X-direction), based on a cross section thereof perpendicular to the second direction (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawings 2-3 below).
Regarding Claim 10, Kim et al. shows a cross-sectional area of each of the lead-out portions included in the first surface of the body is substantially the same as a cross-sectional area of each of the sub lead-out portions included in the first surface of the body (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below, a cross-sectional area of each of the lead-out portions L included in element 105 is substantially the same as a cross-sectional area of each of the sub lead-out portions S included in element 105).
Regarding Claim 13, Kim et al. shows the coil unit further includes sub vias (710, 720) penetrating through the substrate (210) to connect the lead-out portions and the sub lead-out portions to each other (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawings 2-3 below).
Regarding Claim 16, Kim et al. shows the coil unit includes first (310) and second (320) coil patterns disposed on opposite surfaces of the substrate (see Figs. 1-3), respectively, and further includes a via (120) penetrating through the substrate (210) to connect the first and second coil patterns to each other (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawings 2-3 below).
Claim(s) 1, 5, 7-10, 13, and 16 is/are rejected under 35 U.S.C. 103 as being unpatentable over Kim et al. [U.S. Pub. No. 2022/0068545] (hereinafter as “Kim ‘545”) in view of Kim et al. [KR 102191248 B1].
Regarding Claim 1, Kim ‘545 shows a coil component (Figs. 5-6 with teachings from Figs. 1-4) comprising:
a body (100) having first (bottom surface) and second (top surface, see Fig. 5) surfaces opposing each other in a first direction (up-down direction or z-direction), and third (left surface) and fourth (right surface) surfaces connecting the first and second surfaces (see Fig. 5) to each other and opposing each other in a second direction (left-right direction or x-direction, see Fig. 5);
a substrate (210) disposed in the body (see Fig. 5);
a coil unit (310, 320) disposed on the substrate (see Fig. 5), and including a coil pattern (310 or 320), first and second lead-out portions (410, 420) connected to the coil pattern (see Fig. 5) and contacting the first surface (bottom surface) of the body while being spaced apart from the third (left surface) and fourth (right surface) surfaces of the body, respectively (see Fig. 5); and
external electrodes (710, 720) disposed on the first surface (bottom surface) of the body and connected to the lead-out portions, respectively (see Fig. 5),
wherein the first and second lead-out portions (410, 420) include anchor portions (4101, see Fig. 5, Paragraph [0099]) protruding further toward the third and fourth surfaces of the body than other regions of the first and second lead-out portions, respectively (see Fig. 5, Paragraph [0099]), and
wherein the anchor portions of the first and second lead-out portions protrude further in a direction from the first surface toward the second surface of the body than the other regions of the first and second lead-out portions (element 4101 of elements 410, 420 protrude further in a direction from bottom surface toward top surface than other regions of elements 410, 420, see Fig. 5, Paragraph [0099]).
Kim ‘545 does not explicitly show sub lead-out portions spaced apart from the coil pattern and each of the sub lead-out portions occupies a smaller volume within the body than each of the lead-out portions.
Kim et al. shows a coil component (Figs. 1-3 and Drawings 2 and 5 below) comprising:
a body (100) having first (105) and second (106) surfaces opposing each other in a first direction (Z-direction), and third (102) and fourth (101) surfaces connecting the first and second surfaces to each other (see Figs. 1-3) and opposing each other in a second direction (X-direction); a substrate (210) disposed in the body (see Figs. 1-3); a coil unit (310, 320) disposed on the substrate (see Figs. 1-3), and including a coil pattern (310, 320), first and second lead-out portions (lead-out portion L which represents element 410 combined with element 510; and element 420 combined with element 520, see Drawing 2 below) connected to the coil pattern (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below) and contacting the first surface (105) of the body while being spaced apart from the third (102) and fourth (101) surfaces of the body (100, see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below), respectively, and sub lead-out portions (sub lead-out portion S which represents elements 610, 620, see Drawing 2 below) spaced apart from the coil pattern (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below); and external electrodes (810, 820) disposed on the first surface (105) of the body (see Figs. 1-3) and connected to the lead-out portions, respectively (see Figs. 1-3), wherein each of the sub lead-out portions occupies a smaller volume within the body than each of the lead-out portions (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below, sub lead-out portion S which represents elements 610, 620 occupies a smaller volume within element 100 than lead-out portion L which represents element 410 combined with element 510; and element 420 combined with element 520), wherein the first and second lead-out portions (lead-out portion L which represents element 410 combined with element 510; and element 420 combined with element 520, see Drawing 2 below) include anchor portions (anchor portion AP which represents elements 4101, 4201, see Drawing 5 below) protruding further toward the third and fourth surfaces of the body than other regions of the first and second lead-out portions, respectively (anchor portion AP of element 4101 protrudes further toward element 102 than other regions such as region A, region B of element 410 combined with element 510 and anchor portion AP of element 4201 protrudes further toward element 101 than other regions such as region A, region B of element 420 combined with element 520, see Drawings 2 and 5 below), and wherein the anchor portions of the first and second lead-out portions protrude further in a direction from the first surface toward the second surface of the body than the other regions of the first and second lead-out portions (anchor portion AP of element 4101 protrude further in a direction from element 105 toward element 106 than other regions such as region A, region B of element 410 combined with element 510 and anchor portion AP of element 4201 protrude further in a direction from element 105 toward element 106 than other regions such as region A, region B of element 420 combined with element 520, see Drawings 2 and 5 below).
Before the effective filing date of the claimed invention, it would have been obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art to have sub lead-out portions spaced apart from the coil pattern and each of the sub lead-out portions occupies a smaller volume within the body than each of the lead-out portions as taught by Kim et al. for coil component as disclosed by Kim ‘545 to reduce manufacture cost and weight while having connection reliability and structural rigidity of the portion where the coil unit and external electrodes are connected are enhanced (Paragraph [0013]) and improve adhesion strength (Paragraphs [0068], [0097]).
Regarding Claim 5, Kim et al. shows each of the lead-out portions (lead-out portions L) and the sub lead-out portions (sub lead-out portions S) has an outer surface (bottom surface) contacting the first surface (105) of the body (100, see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below), and an inner surface (top surface) opposing the outer surface (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below), and a maximum size in the first direction from the first surface of the body to the inner surface of each of the sub lead-out portions is smaller than a minimum size in the first direction from the first surface of the body to the inner surface of each of the lead-out portions (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below, a maximum size in the Z-direction from element 105 to the top surface of each sub lead-out portions S is smaller than a minimum size in the Z-direction from element 105 to the top surface of lead-out portions L).
Regarding Claim 7, Kim ‘545 shows the inner surface of each of the lead-out portions includes a curved surface (see Fig. 5).
Regarding Claim 8, Kim et al. shows each of the lead-out portions has a cross-sectional area that decreases in an inward direction of the body from the third or fourth surface of the body (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below, lead-out portion L which represents element 410 combined with element 510 has a cross-sectional area that decreases in an inward direction of the body from element 101 and lead-out portion L which represents element 420 combined with element 520 has a cross-sectional area that decreases in an inward direction of the body from element 102), based on a cross section thereof perpendicular to the second direction (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below).
Kim ‘545 shows each of the lead-out portions has a cross-sectional area that decreases in an inward direction of the body from the third or fourth surface of the body (see Fig. 5), based on a cross section thereof perpendicular to the second direction (see Fig. 5).
Regarding Claim 9, Kim et al. shows each of the sub lead-out portions has a cross-sectional area that is substantially constant in the second direction (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawings 2-3 below, sub lead-out portions S has a cross-sectional area that is substantially constant in the X-direction), based on a cross section thereof perpendicular to the second direction (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawings 2-3 below).
Regarding Claim 10, Kim et al. shows a cross-sectional area of each of the lead-out portions included in the first surface of the body is substantially the same as a cross-sectional area of each of the sub lead-out portions included in the first surface of the body (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below, a cross-sectional area of each of the lead-out portions L included in element 105 is substantially the same as a cross-sectional area of each of the sub lead-out portions S included in element 105).
Regarding Claim 13, Kim et al. shows the coil unit further includes sub vias (710, 720) penetrating through the substrate (210) to connect the lead-out portions and the sub lead-out portions to each other (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawings 2-3 below).
Regarding Claim 16, Kim et al. shows the coil unit includes first (310) and second (320) coil patterns disposed on opposite surfaces of the substrate (see Figs. 1-3), respectively, and further includes a via (120) penetrating through the substrate (210) to connect the first and second coil patterns to each other (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawings 2-3 below).
Claim(s) 1, 5, 7-10, 13, and 16 is/are rejected under 35 U.S.C. 103 as being unpatentable over Kim et al. [U.S. Pub. No. 2022/0013271] (hereinafter as “Kim ‘271”) in view of Kim et al. [KR 102191248 B1].
Regarding Claim 1, Kim ‘271 shows a coil component (Figs. 1-4) comprising:
a body (100) having first (bottom surface) and second (top surface) surfaces opposing each other in a first direction (up-down direction or T-direction), and third (left surface) and fourth (right surface) surfaces connecting the first and second surfaces (see Fig. 3) to each other and opposing each other in a second direction (left-right direction or L-direction, see Fig. 3);
a substrate (200) disposed in the body (see Figs. 1-4);
a coil unit (311, 312) disposed on the substrate (see Figs. 1-4), and including a coil pattern (311 or 312), first and second lead-out portions (410, 420) connected to the coil pattern (see Figs. 1-4) and contacting the first surface (bottom surface) of the body while being spaced apart from the third (left surface) and fourth (right surface) surfaces of the body, respectively (see Figs. 1-4); and
external electrodes (710, 720) disposed on the first surface (bottom surface) of the body and connected to the lead-out portions, respectively (see Figs. 1-4),
wherein the first and second lead-out portions (410, 420) include anchor portions (510, 520) protruding further toward the third and fourth surfaces of the body than other regions of the first and second lead-out portions, respectively (see Figs. 1-4), and
wherein the anchor portions of the first and second lead-out portions protrude further in a direction from the first surface toward the second surface of the body than the other regions of the first and second lead-out portions (elements 510, 520 protrude further in a direction from bottom surface toward top surface than other regions of element 410, 420, see Figs. 1-4).
Kim ‘271 does not explicitly show sub lead-out portions spaced apart from the coil pattern and each of the sub lead-out portions occupies a smaller volume within the body than each of the lead-out portions.
Kim et al. shows a coil component (Figs. 1-3 and Drawings 2 and 5 below) comprising:
a body (100) having first (105) and second (106) surfaces opposing each other in a first direction (Z-direction), and third (102) and fourth (101) surfaces connecting the first and second surfaces to each other (see Figs. 1-3) and opposing each other in a second direction (X-direction); a substrate (210) disposed in the body (see Figs. 1-3); a coil unit (310, 320) disposed on the substrate (see Figs. 1-3), and including a coil pattern (310, 320), first and second lead-out portions (lead-out portion L which represents element 410 combined with element 510; and element 420 combined with element 520, see Drawing 2 below) connected to the coil pattern (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below) and contacting the first surface (105) of the body while being spaced apart from the third (102) and fourth (101) surfaces of the body (100, see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below), respectively, and sub lead-out portions (sub lead-out portion S which represents elements 610, 620, see Drawing 2 below) spaced apart from the coil pattern (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below); and external electrodes (810, 820) disposed on the first surface (105) of the body (see Figs. 1-3) and connected to the lead-out portions, respectively (see Figs. 1-3), wherein each of the sub lead-out portions occupies a smaller volume within the body than each of the lead-out portions (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below, sub lead-out portion S which represents elements 610, 620 occupies a smaller volume within element 100 than lead-out portion L which represents element 410 combined with element 510; and element 420 combined with element 520), wherein the first and second lead-out portions (lead-out portion L which represents element 410 combined with element 510; and element 420 combined with element 520, see Drawing 2 below) include anchor portions (anchor portion AP which represents elements 4101, 4201, see Drawing 5 below) protruding further toward the third and fourth surfaces of the body than other regions of the first and second lead-out portions, respectively (anchor portion AP of element 4101 protrudes further toward element 102 than other regions such as region A, region B of element 410 combined with element 510 and anchor portion AP of element 4201 protrudes further toward element 101 than other regions such as region A, region B of element 420 combined with element 520, see Drawings 2 and 5 below), and wherein the anchor portions of the first and second lead-out portions protrude further in a direction from the first surface toward the second surface of the body than the other regions of the first and second lead-out portions (anchor portion AP of element 4101 protrude further in a direction from element 105 toward element 106 than other regions such as region A, region B of element 410 combined with element 510 and anchor portion AP of element 4201 protrude further in a direction from element 105 toward element 106 than other regions such as region A, region B of element 420 combined with element 520, see Drawings 2 and 5 below).
Before the effective filing date of the claimed invention, it would have been obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art to have sub lead-out portions spaced apart from the coil pattern and each of the sub lead-out portions occupies a smaller volume within the body than each of the lead-out portions as taught by Kim et al. for coil component as disclosed by Kim ‘271 to reduce manufacture cost and weight while having connection reliability and structural rigidity of the portion where the coil unit and external electrodes are connected are enhanced (Paragraph [0013]) and improve adhesion strength (Paragraphs [0068], [0097]).
Regarding Claim 5, Kim et al. shows each of the lead-out portions (lead-out portions L) and the sub lead-out portions (sub lead-out portions S) has an outer surface (bottom surface) contacting the first surface (105) of the body (100, see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below), and an inner surface (top surface) opposing the outer surface (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below), and a maximum size in the first direction from the first surface of the body to the inner surface of each of the sub lead-out portions is smaller than a minimum size in the first direction from the first surface of the body to the inner surface of each of the lead-out portions (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below, a maximum size in the Z-direction from element 105 to the top surface of each sub lead-out portions S is smaller than a minimum size in the Z-direction from element 105 to the top surface of lead-out portions L).
Regarding Claim 7, Kim ‘271 shows the inner surface of each of the lead-out portions includes a curved surface (see Figs. 1-4).
Regarding Claim 8, Kim et al. shows each of the lead-out portions has a cross-sectional area that decreases in an inward direction of the body from the third or fourth surface of the body (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below, lead-out portion L which represents element 410 combined with element 510 has a cross-sectional area that decreases in an inward direction of the body from element 101 and lead-out portion L which represents element 420 combined with element 520 has a cross-sectional area that decreases in an inward direction of the body from element 102), based on a cross section thereof perpendicular to the second direction (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below).
Regarding Claim 9, Kim et al. shows each of the sub lead-out portions has a cross-sectional area that is substantially constant in the second direction (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawings 2-3 below, sub lead-out portions S has a cross-sectional area that is substantially constant in the X-direction), based on a cross section thereof perpendicular to the second direction (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawings 2-3 below).
Regarding Claim 10, Kim et al. shows a cross-sectional area of each of the lead-out portions included in the first surface of the body is substantially the same as a cross-sectional area of each of the sub lead-out portions included in the first surface of the body (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawing 2 below, a cross-sectional area of each of the lead-out portions L included in element 105 is substantially the same as a cross-sectional area of each of the sub lead-out portions S included in element 105).
Regarding Claim 13, Kim et al. shows the coil unit further includes sub vias (710, 720) penetrating through the substrate (210) to connect the lead-out portions and the sub lead-out portions to each other (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawings 2-3 below).
Regarding Claim 16, Kim et al. shows the coil unit includes first (310) and second (320) coil patterns disposed on opposite surfaces of the substrate (see Figs. 1-3), respectively, and further includes a via (120) penetrating through the substrate (210) to connect the first and second coil patterns to each other (see Figs. 1-3 and Drawings 2-3 below).
Claim(s) 2-4 and 9 is/are rejected under 35 U.S.C. 103 as being unpatentable over Kim et al. in view of Choi et al. OR Choi et al. in view of Kim et al. OR Kim ‘545 in view of Kim et al. OR Kim ‘271 in view of Kim et al. as applied to claim 1 above, and further in view of Hong et al. [U.S. Pub. No. 2020/0051727].
Regarding Claim 2, Kim et al. in view of Choi et al. OR Choi et al. in view of Kim et al. OR Kim ‘545 in view of Kim et al. OR Kim ‘271 in view of Kim et al. shows the claimed invention as applied above but does not show each of the sub lead-out portions has a cross section in a rectangular shape, in a cut view perpendicular to the first, second, third, and fourth surfaces of the body.
Hong et al. shows an inductor (Figs. 1-4) teaching and suggesting each of the sub lead-out portions (12, Paragraph [0018], claim 13) has a cross section in a rectangular shape (see Fig. 4, Paragraph [0018], claim 13), in a cut view perpendicular to the first, second, third, and fourth surfaces (bottom, top, right, left surfaces) of the body (1, see Figs. 1-4).
Before the effective filing date of the claimed invention, it would have been obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art to have each of the sub lead-out portions has a cross section in a rectangular shape, in a cut view perpendicular to the first, second, third, and fourth surfaces of the body as taught by Hong et al. for coil component as disclosed by Kim et al. in view of Choi et al. OR Choi et al. in view of Kim et al. OR Kim ‘545 in view of Kim et al. OR Kim ‘271 in view of Kim et al. to simplified design to reduce manufacture time and cost and achieve desirable mechanical stability so that connectivity between external electrodes is enhanced to reinforce structural strength (Paragraph [0050]).
Regarding Claim 3, Kim et al. shows a ratio of a cross-sectional area of each of the sub lead-out portions (area A2, see Drawing 3 below) to a cross-sectional area of each of the lead-out portions (area A1+area A3, see Drawing 3 below) is more than 0.45 and less than 1 (see Drawings 2-3 below, area A2 and area A1 is the same and area A3 is less than area A1, area A3 can be about 30%-50% of area A1, therefore a ratio of A2/(A1+A3) is about 0.76 to 0.66 which is within range).
It is noted that Drawings and pictures can anticipate claims if they clearly show the structure which is claimed. In re Mraz, 455 F.2d 1069, 173 USPQ 25 (CCPA 1972). However, the picture must show all the claimed structural features and how they are put together. Jockmus v. Leviton, 28 F.2d 812 (2d Cir. 1928). The origin of the drawing is immaterial. For instance, drawings in a design patent can anticipate or make obvious the claimed invention as can drawings in utility patents. When the reference is a utility patent, it does not matter that the feature shown is unintended or unexplained in the specification. The drawings must be evaluated for what they reasonably disclose and suggest to one of ordinary skill in the art. In re Aslanian, 590 F.2d 911, 200 USPQ 500 (CCPA 1979). See MPEP § 2125.I for more information on prior art drawings as “enabled disclosures”.
Moreover, it would have been obvious to one having ordinary skill in the art at the time the invention was made to have a ratio of a cross-sectional area of each of the sub lead-out portions to a cross-sectional area of each of the lead-out portions is more than 0.45 and less than 1 improves adhesion strength between a lead-out portion and a body and prevents a portion of a metal, constituting the lead-out portion, from being pushed to a surface of the body, since it has been held that where the general conditions of a claim are disclosed in the prior art, discovering the optimum or workable ranges involves only routine skill in the art. In re Aller, 105 USPQ 233.
Regarding Claim 4, Kim et al. shows the body (100) further has fifth (103) and sixth (104) surfaces connected to the first, second, third, and fourth surfaces (105, 106, 101, 102) and opposing each other in a third direction (Y-direction), the cross-sectional area of each of the lead-out portions (lead-out portions L) is an area of a cross section of each of the lead-out portions taken at a central portion thereof in the third direction in parallel to the fifth surface of the body (see Drawings 2-3 below), and the cross-sectional area of each of the sub lead-out portions (sub lead-out portions S) is an area of a cross section of each of the sub lead-out portions taken at a central portion thereof in the third direction in parallel to the fifth surface of the body (see Drawings 2-3 below).
Regarding Claim 9, Kim et al. in view of Choi et al. OR Choi et al. in view of Kim et al. OR Kim ‘545 in view of Kim et al. OR Kim ‘271 in view of Kim et al. shows the claimed invention as applied above.
In addition, Hong et al. shows each of the sub lead-out portions (12, Paragraph [0018], claim 13) has a cross-sectional area that is substantially constant in the second direction (see Figs. 1-4, elements 12 has a cross-sectional area that is substantially constant in the L-direction), based on a cross section thereof perpendicular to the second direction (see Figs. 1-4).
Before the effective filing date of the claimed invention, it would have been obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art to have each of the sub lead-out portions has a cross-sectional area that is substantially constant in the second direction, based on a cross section thereof perpendicular to the second direction as taught by Hong et al. for coil component as disclosed by Kim et al. in view of Choi et al. OR Choi et al. in view of Kim et al. OR Kim ‘545 in view of Kim et al. OR Kim ‘271 in view of Kim et al. to simplified design to reduce manufacture time and cost and achieve desirable mechanical stability so that connectivity between external electrodes is enhanced to reinforce structural strength (Paragraph [0050]).
Claim(s) 6 is/are rejected under 35 U.S.C. 102(a)(1) as anticipated by or, in the alternative, under 35 U.S.C. 103 as obvious over Kim et al. in view of Choi et al. OR Choi et al. in view of Kim et al. OR Kim ‘545 in view of Kim et al. OR Kim ‘271 in view of Kim et al.
Regarding Claim 6, Kim et al. shows (see Drawing 4 below) a ratio of the maximum size (T2) in the first direction from the first surface of the body to the inner surface of each of the sub lead-out portions to the minimum size (T1) in the first direction from the first surface of the body to the inner surface of each of the lead-out portions is more than 0.5 and less than 1 (see Drawing 4 below, taking a measurement of T2 and T1, T2 is about 0.5 cm and T1 is about 0.9 cm, therefore a ratio T2/T1 is about 0.55).
It is noted that Drawings and pictures can anticipate claims if they clearly show the structure which is claimed. In re Mraz, 455 F.2d 1069, 173 USPQ 25 (CCPA 1972). However, the picture must show all the claimed structural features and how they are put together. Jockmus v. Leviton, 28 F.2d 812 (2d Cir. 1928). The origin of the drawing is immaterial. For instance, drawings in a design patent can anticipate or make obvious the claimed invention as can drawings in utility patents. When the reference is a utility patent, it does not matter that the feature shown is unintended or unexplained in the specification. The drawings must be evaluated for what they reasonably disclose and suggest to one of ordinary skill in the art. In re Aslanian, 590 F.2d 911, 200 USPQ 500 (CCPA 1979). See MPEP § 2125.I for more information on prior art drawings as “enabled disclosures”.
Moreover, in the case where Kim et al. does not anticipate, it would have been obvious to one having ordinary skill in the art at the time the invention was made to have a ratio of the maximum size in the first direction from the first surface of the body to the inner surface of each of the sub lead-out portions to the minimum size in the first direction from the first surface of the body to the inner surface of each of the lead-out portions is more than 0.5 and less than 1 to improves adhesion strength between a lead-out portion and a body and prevents a portion of a metal, constituting the lead-out portion, from being pushed to a surface of the body, since it has been held that where the general conditions of a claim are disclosed in the prior art, discovering the optimum or workable ranges involves only routine skill in the art. In re Aller, 105 USPQ 233.
Claim(s) 7-8 and 10 is/are rejected under 35 U.S.C. 103 as being unpatentable over Kim et al. in view of Choi et al. OR Choi et al. in view of Kim et al. OR Kim ‘545 in view of Kim et al. OR Kim ‘271 in view of Kim et al. as applied to claims 1 and 5 above, and further in view of Odahara [U.S. Pub. No. 2014/0078643].
Regarding Claim 7, Kim et al. in view of Choi et al. OR Choi et al. in view of Kim et al. OR Kim ‘545 in view of Kim et al. OR Kim ‘271 in view of Kim et al. shows the claimed invention as applied above.
In addition, Odahara shows an inductor (Fig. 2) teaching and suggesting the inner surface of each of the lead-out portions (22, 26) includes a curved surface (see Fig. 2, elements 22, 26 includes a curved surface).
Before the effective filing date of the claimed invention, it would have been obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art to have the inner surface of each of the lead-out portions includes a curved surface as taught by Odahara for coil component as disclosed by Kim et al. in view of Choi et al. OR Choi et al. in view of Kim et al. OR Kim ‘545 in view of Kim et al. OR Kim ‘271 in view of Kim et al. to facilitate electrical connection with via-hole conductors and achieve desirable mechanical stability so that connectivity can be enhanced obtaining desirable operating characteristics and inductances (Paragraphs [0042]-[0043]).
Regarding Claim 8, Kim et al. in view of Choi et al. OR Choi et al. in view of Kim et al. OR Kim ‘545 in view of Kim et al. OR Kim ‘271 in view of Kim et al. shows the claimed invention as applied above.
In addition, Odahara shows each of the lead-out portions has a cross-sectional area that decreases in an inward direction of the body from the third or fourth surface of the body (see Fig. 2, element 22 has a cross-sectional area that decreases in an inward direction of the body from the right surface and element 26 has a cross-sectional area that decreases in an inward direction of the body from the left surface), based on a cross section thereof perpendicular to the second direction (see Fig. 2).
Before the effective filing date of the claimed invention, it would have been obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art to have each of the lead-out portions has a cross-sectional area that decreases in an inward direction of the body from the third or fourth surface of the body, based on a cross section thereof perpendicular to the second direction as taught by Odahara for coil component as disclosed by Kim et al. in view of Choi et al. OR Choi et al. in view of Kim et al. OR Kim ‘545 in view of Kim et al. OR Kim ‘271 in view of Kim et al. to facilitate electrical connection with via-hole conductors and achieve desirable mechanical stability so that connectivity can be enhanced obtaining desirable operating characteristics and inductances (Paragraphs [0042]-[0043]).
Regarding Claim 10, Kim et al. in view of Choi et al. OR Choi et al. in view of Kim et al. OR Kim ‘545 in view of Kim et al. OR Kim ‘271 in view of Kim et al. shows the claimed invention as applied above.
In addition, Odahara shows a cross-sectional area of each of the lead-out portions included in the first surface of the body is substantially the same as a cross-sectional area of each of the sub lead-out portions included in the first surface of the body (see Fig. 3A, a cross-sectional area of elements 22, 26 included in element S1 is substantially the same as a cross-sectional area of each of elements 20e, 24c included in element S1).
Before the effective filing date of the claimed invention, it would have been obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art to have a cross-sectional area of each of the lead-out portions included in the first surface of the body is substantially the same as a cross-sectional area of each of the sub lead-out portions included in the first surface of the body as taught by Odahara for coil component as disclosed by Kim et al. in view of Choi et al. OR Choi et al. in view of Kim et al. OR Kim ‘545 in view of Kim et al. OR Kim ‘271 in view of Kim et al. to simplified design to facilitate electrical connection with external electrodes and achieve desirable mechanical stability so that connectivity can be enhanced obtaining desirable operating characteristics and inductances (Paragraphs [0042]-[0043]).
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Drawing I
Response to Arguments
Applicant’s arguments with respect to claim(s) 1-10, 13, and 16-19 have been considered but are moot because the new ground of rejection does not rely on any reference applied in the prior rejection of record for any teaching or matter specifically challenged in the argument.
Applicant's arguments filed 03/23/2026 have been fully considered but they are not persuasive.
In response to applicant’s arguments that Kim et al. does not shows “the first and second lead-out portions include anchor portions protruding further toward the third and fourth surfaces of the body than other regions of the first and second lead-out portions, respectively, and wherein the anchor portions of the first and second lead-out portions protrude further in a direction from the first surface toward the second surface of the body than the other regions of the first and second lead-out portions” is found not persuasive because Kim et al. shows the first and second lead-out portions (lead-out portion L which represents element 410 combined with element 510; and element 420 combined with element 520, see Drawing 2 above) include anchor portions (anchor portion AP which represents elements 4101, 4201, see Drawing 5 above) protruding further toward the third and fourth surfaces of the body than other regions of the first and second lead-out portions, respectively (anchor portion AP of element 4101 protrudes further toward element 102 than other regions such as region A, region B of element 410 combined with element 510 and anchor portion AP of element 4201 protrudes further toward element 101 than other regions such as region A, region B of element 420 combined with element 520, see Drawings 2 and 5 above), and wherein the anchor portions of the first and second lead-out portions protrude further in a direction from the first surface toward the second surface of the body than the other regions of the first and second lead-out portions (anchor portion AP of element 4101 protrude further in a direction from element 105 toward element 106 than other regions such as region A, region B of element 410 combined with element 510 and anchor portion AP of element 4201 protrude further in a direction from element 105 toward element 106 than other regions such as region A, region B of element 420 combined with element 520, see Drawings 2 and 5 above).
The claim limitation “other regions” is still considered broad and need to be more specifically claim.
In response to applicant’s arguments that Li et al. does not shows “the first and second lead-out portions include anchor portions protruding further toward the third and fourth surfaces of the body than other regions of the first and second lead-out portions, respectively, and wherein the anchor portions of the first and second lead-out portions protrude further in a direction from the first surface toward the second surface of the body than the other regions of the first and second lead-out portions” is found not persuasive because Li et al. shows the first and second lead-out portions (lead-out portion L which represents elements 62, 64, see Drawing A above) include anchor portions (anchor portion AP which represents elements 62, 64, see Drawing C above) protruding further toward the third and fourth surfaces of the body than other regions of the first and second lead-out portions, respectively (anchor portion AP of element 62 protrudes further toward element 101 than other regions such as region A, region B of element 62 and anchor portion AP of element 64 protrudes further toward element 102 than other regions such as region A, region B of element 64, see Drawings A and C above), and wherein the anchor portions of the first and second lead-out portions protrude further in a direction from the first surface toward the second surface of the body than the other regions of the first and second lead-out portions (topmost portion of anchor portion AP of element 62 protrude further in a direction from element 103 toward element 104 than other regions such as region A, region B of element 62 and topmost portion of anchor portion AP of element 64 protrude further in a direction from element 103 toward element 104 than other regions such as region A, region B of element 64, see Drawings A and C above).
The claim limitation “other regions” is still considered broad and need to be more specifically claim.
Conclusion
Applicant's amendment necessitated the new ground(s) of rejection presented in this Office action. Accordingly, THIS ACTION IS MADE FINAL. See MPEP § 706.07(a). Applicant is reminded of the extension of time policy as set forth in 37 CFR 1.136(a).
A shortened statutory period for reply to this final action is set to expire THREE MONTHS from the mailing date of this action. In the event a first reply is filed within TWO MONTHS of the mailing date of this final action and the advisory action is not mailed until after the end of the THREE-MONTH shortened statutory period, then the shortened statutory period will expire on the date the advisory action is mailed, and any nonprovisional extension fee (37 CFR 1.17(a)) pursuant to 37 CFR 1.136(a) will be calculated from the mailing date of the advisory action. In no event, however, will the statutory period for reply expire later than SIX MONTHS from the mailing date of this final action.
Any inquiry concerning this communication or earlier communications from the examiner should be directed to TSZFUNG J CHAN whose telephone number is (571)270-7981. The examiner can normally be reached M-TH 8:00AM-6:00PM.
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/TSZFUNG J CHAN/Primary Examiner, Art Unit 2837