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 .
Foreign Priority
This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application no. 17/349,944 (now abandoned) that claims priority to U.S. patent application no. 15/613,262 (now abandoned) that claims priority to Taiwan Patent Application No. 105136754 filed on 11/11/2016, and as shown in the file history of application no. 15/613,262 on 08/14/2017 the USPTO electronically received a certified copy of this document. Thus, on the office action summary sheet examiner has checked off the box “all” certified copies have been received at this time.
Specification Objections
The abstract needs to be amended to: (i) remove the phrase “is provided” so that the abstract is clear and concise (see MPEP Section 608, especially – “It should avoid using phrases which can be implied, such as ‘The disclosure concerns’”); and (ii) remove both “A method for configuring an optical input device” (see MPEP Section 608, especially – “The language…should not repeat information given in the title”).
Claim Objections
Claims 5, 12 and 14 are objected to because of the following informalities:
Claim 5 at line 3 includes spacing between “sensor” and “;” that can be
corrected, for example, by amending it to “sensor;”. Appropriate correction is required.
Claim 12 at line 6 includes “the sensed value upper limit” that lacks antecedent basis. This objection may be overcome, for example, by amending it to “a sensed value upper limit”. Appropriate correction is required.
Claim 14 at line 4 includes spacing between “sensor” and “;” that can be
corrected, for example, by amending it to “sensor;”. Appropriate correction is required.
Claim Interpretation
The following is a quotation of 35 U.S.C. 112(f):
(f) Element in Claim for a Combination. – An element in a claim for a combination may be expressed as a means or step for performing a specified function without the recital of structure, material, or acts in support thereof, and such claim shall be construed to cover the corresponding structure, material, or acts described in the specification and equivalents thereof.
The following is a quotation of pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 112, sixth paragraph:
An element in a claim for a combination may be expressed as a means or step for performing a specified function without the recital of structure, material, or acts in support thereof, and such claim shall be construed to cover the corresponding structure, material, or acts described in the specification and equivalents thereof.
The claims in this application are given their broadest reasonable interpretation using the plain meaning of the claim language in light of the specification as it would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. The broadest reasonable interpretation of a claim element (also commonly referred to as a claim limitation) is limited by the description in the specification when 35 U.S.C. 112(f) or pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 112, sixth paragraph, is invoked.
As explained in MPEP § 2181, subsection I, claim limitations that meet the following three-prong test will be interpreted under 35 U.S.C. 112(f) or pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 112, sixth paragraph:
(A) the claim limitation uses the term “means” or “step” or a term used as a substitute for “means” that is a generic placeholder (also called a nonce term or a non-structural term having no specific structural meaning) for performing the claimed function;
(B) the term “means” or “step” or the generic placeholder is modified by functional language, typically, but not always linked by the transition word “for” (e.g., “means for”) or another linking word or phrase, such as “configured to” or “so that”; and
(C) the term “means” or “step” or the generic placeholder is not modified by sufficient structure, material, or acts for performing the claimed function.
Use of the word “means” (or “step”) in a claim with functional language creates a rebuttable presumption that the claim limitation is to be treated in accordance with 35 U.S.C. 112(f) or pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 112, sixth paragraph. The presumption that the claim limitation is interpreted under 35 U.S.C. 112(f) or pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 112, sixth paragraph, is rebutted when the claim limitation recites sufficient structure, material, or acts to entirely perform the recited function.
Absence of the word “means” (or “step”) in a claim creates a rebuttable presumption that the claim limitation is not to be treated in accordance with 35 U.S.C. 112(f) or pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 112, sixth paragraph. The presumption that the claim limitation is not interpreted under 35 U.S.C. 112(f) or pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 112, sixth paragraph, is rebutted when the claim limitation recites function without reciting sufficient structure, material or acts to entirely perform the recited function.
Claim limitations in this application that use the word “means” (or “step”) are being interpreted under 35 U.S.C. 112(f) or pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 112, sixth paragraph, except as otherwise indicated in an Office action. Conversely, claim limitations in this application that do not use the word “means” (or “step”) are not being interpreted under 35 U.S.C. 112(f) or pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 112, sixth paragraph, except as otherwise indicated in an Office action.
7. This application includes one or more claim limitations that do not use the word "means," but are nonetheless being interpreted under 35 U.S.C. 112(f) or pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 112, sixth paragraph, because the claim limitation(s) uses a generic placeholder that is coupled with functional language without reciting sufficient structure
to perform the recited function and the generic placeholder is not preceded by a structural modifier. Such claim limitation(s) is/ are: a parameter setting unit, arranged to adjust an optical setting of the sensing device to obtain an optimal dynamic range of the sensing device; and a threshold setting unit, arranged to determine a valid input threshold corresponding to the optical input device based on the optimal dynamic range, wherein the optical input device is a button of a computer keyboard in claim 10.
Because these claim limitations are being interpreted under 35 U.S.C. 112(f) or pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 112, sixth paragraph, they are being interpreted to cover the corresponding structure described in the specification as performing the claimed function, and equivalents thereof.
If applicant does not intend to have these limitations interpreted under 35 U.S.C. 112(f) or pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 112, sixth paragraph, applicant may: (1) amend the claim limitations to avoid them being interpreted under 35 U.S.C. 112(f) or pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 112, sixth paragraph (e.g., by reciting sufficient structure to perform the claimed function); or (2) present a sufficient showing that the claim limitations recite sufficient structure to perform the claimed function so as to avoid it/them being interpreted under 35 U.S.C. 112(f) or pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 112, sixth paragraph.
Claim Rejections – 35 USC § 102
8. The following is a quotation of the appropriate paragraphs of AIA 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 user, on sale or otherwise available to the public before the effective filing date of the claimed invention.
9. Claims 1-18 are rejected under 35 U.S.C. 102(a)(1) as being anticipated by U.S. Patent No. 6,229,081 B1 to Ura et al. (“Ura”).
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As to claim 1, Ura discloses a method of configuring an optical input device(each of: 3a/90 and 3b/90)(FIG. 3-4: 90a, 90e, 90f, 90h; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39), the optical input device(each of: 3a/90 and 3b/90)(FIG. 3-4: 90a, 90e, 90f, 90h; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39) including a movable unit(each of: 3a/90a and 3b/90a)(FIG. 3-4; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39) and a sensing device(90b-90h)(FIG. 3-4: 90a; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39), the movable unit(each of: 3a/90a and 3b/90a)(FIG. 3-4: Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39) being arranged to move within a predetermined movement range (FIGs. 2-4: each 90a; col 2, ln 30-49; col 9, ln 9-12), the sensing device(90b-90h)(FIG. 3-4: 90a; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39) being arranged to detect a position within the predetermined movement range (FIGs. 2-4: 90b-90h; col 2, ln 30-49; col 9, ln 9-12; col 12, ln 13-17) at which the movable unit(each of: 3a/90a and 3b/90a)(FIG. 3-4; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 9, ln 9-12; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39) is located (FIG. 2-4: 90a, 90b-90h; Abstract; col 2, ln 30-49; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 9, ln 9-12; col 12, ln 13-17; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39),
the method (FIG. 3-4: 90a, 90b-90h; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39) comprising: adjusting an optical setting of the sensing device(90b-90h)(FIG. 3-4: 90a, 90b-90h; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39) to obtain an optimal dynamic range of the sensing device(90b-90h)(FIG. 3-4: 90a; col 15, ln 60 to col 16, ln 6); and determining a valid input threshold (FIGs. 2-4: 90a, 90b-90h; col 6, ln 26-38; col 12, ln 13-17; col 15, ln 60 to col 16, ln 6col 16, ln 36-43, 49-53 – FIG. 2 shows the relationship between the relative output level SAR and the position of the current key/shutter {each of: 3a/90a & 3b/90a} that includes a valid threshold of the optical input {e.g., LR, LE}. Thus, by calculating the relative output level SAR based on the optimal dynamic range, a valid input threshold of the optical input device is determined based on the optimal dynamic range.) of the optical input device(each of: 3a/90 and 3b/90)(FIG. 3-4: 90b-90h; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39) based on the optimal dynamic range (FIG. 3-4: 90b-90h, col 15, ln 60 to col 16, ln 6), wherein the optical input device(each of: 3a/90 and 3b/90)(FIG. 3-4: 90b-90h; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39) is a button1(each of: 3a/90 and 3b/90)(FIG. 3-4: 90b-90h; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39) of a computer keyboard2(3)(FIGs. 3-4: 100a, 100b; col 5, ln 7-9, especially – “keyboard 3”; col 6, ln 26-29, 0058-0065, especially – “the music data codes are stored in a suitable memory such as, for example, a floppy disk 110”; col 7, ln 5-23).
As to claim 2, Ura discloses the method of claim 1, as applied above.
Ura further discloses wherein the step of adjusting the optical setting (FIG. 3-4: 90a, 90b-90h; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39) comprises: determining an optimal light intensity corresponding to a light source(90c)(FIG. 4; col 6, ln 22-38) of the sensing device(90b-90h)(FIG. 3-4: 90a; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39) according to a sensed value that is obtained when the movable unit(each of: 3a/90a and 3b/90a)(FIG. 3-4; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39) is located at a specific position (FIGs. 2-4: each of: 3a/90 and 3b/90, 90c; FIG. 2-4: Abstract; col 2, ln 30-49; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 9, ln 9-12; col 12, ln 13-17; col 13, ln 8-15, col 15, ln 31-39, col 15, ln 60 to col 16, ln 6 – as shown in FIG. 2, the upper limit of the key position signals S1 is defined as an optical sensed value that is obtained when the movable unit {FIGs. 3-4: each of: 3a/90 and 3b/90} is located at a specific rest position KR. Thus, by controlling the light intensity so that “the key position signals S1 in the full dynamic range of the analog-to digital converter 100j without exceeding it” an optimal light intensity corresponding to a light source of the sensing device is determined according to an optical sensed value that is obtained when the movable unit is located at a specific position KR).
As to claim 3, Ura discloses the method of claim 2, as applied above.
Ura further discloses wherein the step of determining the optimal light intensity (FIGs. 2-4: each of: 3a/90 and 3b/90, 90c; FIG. 2-4: Abstract; col 2, ln 30-49; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 9, ln 9-12; col 12, ln 13-17; col 13, ln 8-15, col 15, ln 31-39, col 15, ln 60 to col 16, ln 6 – as shown in FIG. 2, the upper limit of the key position signals S1 is defined as an optical sensed value that is obtained when the movable unit {FIGs. 3-4: each of: 3a/90 and 3b/90} is located at a specific rest position KR. Thus, by controlling the light intensity so that “the key position signals S1 in the full dynamic range of the analog-to digital converter 100j without exceeding it” an optimal light intensity corresponding to a light source of the sensing device is determined according to an optical sensed value that is obtained when the movable unit is located at a specific position KR) comprises: obtaining the sensed value based on a current light intensity of the light source; determining whether the sensed value is equal to a sensed value upper limit; setting the current light intensity to be the optimal light intensity when the sensed value is equal to the sensed value upper limit; and increasing the current light intensity when the sensed value is lower than the sensed value upper limit (See col 15, ln 60 to col 16, ln 6 – the sensed value (S1) based on a current light intensity of the light source is obtained and the current light intensity is controlled so “every light-emitting diode 90c radiates the light under the optimum electric conditions, and key sensors 90 swing the key position signals S1 in the full dynamic range of the analog-to-digital converter 110j without exceeding it”, corresponds to the claimed process of determining whether the sensed value is equal to a sensed value upper limit; setting the current light intensity to be the optimal light intensity when the sensed value is equal to the sensed value upper limit; and increasing the current light intensity when the sensed value is lower than the sensed value upper limit. In other words, the light intensity is controlled so that in FIG. 2 the output level at the rest position KR does not exceed the full dynamic range of the analog-to-digital converter 100j).
As to claim 4, Ura discloses the method of claim 1, as applied above.
Ura further discloses wherein the step of adjusting the optical setting of the sensing device comprises: determining an optimal light sensitivity corresponding to a sensor of the sensing device according to a sensed value that is obtained when the movable unit is located at a specific position (See col 16, ln 9-27 – the sensed value is obtained when the movable unit is located at a specific position (the binary value a digital key position signal S4) is used to determine an optimal light sensitivity corresponding to the sensor of the sensing device that is reflected in an optimal range of binary values of the analog-to-digital converter 100j).
As to claim 5, Ura discloses the method of claim 4, as applied above.
Ura further discloses wherein the step of determining the optimal light sensitivity comprises: obtaining the sensed value based on a current light sensitivity of the sensor ; comparing the sensed value with a sensed value upper limit; decreasing the current light sensitivity when the sensed value is equal to the sensed value upper limit (See col 16, ln 9-27 – the sensed value (the binary value of a digital key position signal S4) based on a current light sensitivity of the sensor is obtained, the current light sensitivity is controlled so “the associated digital key position signals S4 swings the binary values under the upper limit” corresponds to the claimed process of comparing the sensed value with a sensed value upper limit; decreasing the current light sensitivity when the sensed value is equal to the sensed value upper limit); and increasing the current light sensitivity when the sensed value is lower than the sensed value upper limit (See column 16, ln 26-36).
As to claim 6, Ura discloses the method of claim 1, as applied above.
Ura further discloses wherein the step of determining the valid input threshold corresponding to the optical input device comprises: setting a sensed value to be the valid input threshold, wherein the sensed value is obtained when the movable unit is located at a specific position within the predetermined movement range (See FIG. 2 and col 16, ln 36-43 and 49-58 – a sensed value LR is set to be the valid input threshold, wherein the sensed value is obtained when the movable unit is located at a specific position within the predetermined movement range (i.e., at a rest position)).
As to claim 7, Ura discloses the method of claim 1, as applied above.
Ura further discloses wherein the step of determining the valid input threshold corresponding to the optical input device comprises: determining a sensed value upper limit and a sensed value lower limit of the optimal dynamic range; and determining a correspondence between each sensed value and each position of the movable unit within the predetermined movement range (See FIG. 2 and column 16, ln 36-43 and 49-58 – a sensed value upper limit (LR) and a sensed value lower limit (LE) of the optical dynamic range are determined, and according to the cited portion a correspondence between each sensed value and each position of the movable unit within the predetermined movement range is determined (“The central processing unit 100a stores the relation between the relative output level SAR and the current shutter/key position, and determines the current shutter/key position on the basis of the relative output level SAR”)).
As to claim 8, Ura discloses the method of claim 7, as applied above.
Ura further discloses wherein the step of determining the valid input threshold corresponding to the optical input device comprises: referring to the correspondence to obtain a specific sensed value corresponding to a specific position of the movable unit within the predetermined movement range; and configuring the valid input threshold according to the specific sensed value (See FIG. 2; col 16, ln 36-43 and 49-58 – according to the cited portion the correspondence is referred to obtain a specific sensed value corresponding to a specific position of the movable unit within the predetermined movement range, and referring to FIG. 2 the valid input threshold LR is configured according to the specific sensed value at the rest position).
As to claim 9, Ura discloses the method of claim 7, as applied above.
Ura further discloses wherein the step of determining the valid input threshold corresponding to the optical input device comprises: recording a plurality of stop positions of the movable unit (See col 13, ln 52-67 – a plurality of stop positions of the movable unit are recorded (rest positions and end positions); determining a common position based on the plurality of stop positions; referring to the correspondence to obtain a specific sensed value corresponding to the common position; and configuring the valid input threshold according to the specific sensed value (See FIG. 2 and col 16, ln 36-43 and 49-58 – according to the cited portion, a common position is determined based on the plurality of stop positions (i.e., a rest position is a common position) and the correspondence is referred to obtain a specific sensed value corresponding to the common position (LR). Referring to FIG. 2, the valid input threshold LR is configured according to the specific sensed value at the common position).
As to claim 10, Ura discloses a configuration device (See col 7, ln 5-32; col 15, ln 60 to col 16, ln 6; col 16, ln 9-21) for configuring an optical input device(each of: 3a/90 and 3b/90)(FIG. 3-4: 90a, 90e, 90f, 90h; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39), the optical input device(each of: 3a/90 and 3b/90)(FIG. 3-4: 90a, 90e, 90f, 90h; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39) including a movable unit(each of: 3a/90a and 3b/90a)(FIG. 3-4; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39) and a sensing device(90b-90h)(FIG. 3-4: 90a; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39), the movable unit(each of: 3a/90a and 3b/90a)(FIG. 3-4: Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39) being arranged to move within a predetermined movement range (FIGs. 2-4: 90a; col 2, ln 30-49; col 9, ln 9-12), the sensing device(90b-90h)(FIG. 3-4: 90a; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39) being arranged to detect a position within the predetermined movement range (FIGs. 2-4: 90b-90h; col 2, ln 30-49; col 9, ln 9-12; col 12, ln 13-17) at which the movable unit(each of: 3a/90a and 3b/90a)(FIG. 3-4; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 9, ln 9-12; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39) is located (FIG. 2-4: 90a, 90b-90h; Abstract; col 2, ln 30-49; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 9, ln 9-12; col 12, ln 13-17; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39), the configuration device (See col 7, ln 5-32; col 15, ln 60 to col 16, ln 6; col 16, ln 9-21) comprising:
a parameter setting unit, which is being interpreted as a hardware component running software to perform the claimed functions and the equivalents per MPEP Section 2181 (See applicant’s [0018])(col 7, ln 5-32, especially – “controller 100”), arranged to adjust an optical setting of the sensing device to obtain an optimal dynamic range of the sensing device (See col 15, ln 60 to col 16, ln 6; col 16, ln 9-21); and
a threshold setting unit, which is being interpreted as a hardware component running software to perform the claimed functions and the equivalents per MPEP Section 2181 (See applicant’s [0018])(col 7, ln 5-32, especially – “controller 100”), arranged to determine a valid input threshold corresponding to the optical input device(3a/90 and 3b/90)(FIG. 3-4: 90a, 90e, 90f, 90h; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39) based on the optimal dynamic range (FIG. 2 and col 16, ln 36-43 and 49-58 – FIG. 2 shows the relation between the relative output level SAR and the current key/shutter position that includes a valid input threshold of the optical input (e.g., LR, LE). Therefore, by calculating the relative output level SAR based on the optical dynamic range, a valid input threshold of the optical input device is determined based on the optical dynamic range), wherein the optical input device is a button(each of: 3a/90 and 3b/90)(FIG. 3-4: 90b-90h; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39) of a computer keyboard(3)(FIGs. 3-4: 100a, 100b; col 5, ln 7-9; col 6, ln 26-29; col 7, ln 5-23).
As to claim 11, Ura discloses the configuration device of claim 10, as applied above.
Ura further discloses wherein the parameter setting unit, which is being interpreted as a hardware component running software to perform the claimed functions and the equivalents per MPEP Section 2181 (See applicant’s [0018])(col 7, ln 5-32, especially – “controller 100”) is arranged to determine an optimal light intensity corresponding to a light source of the sensing device according to a sensed value that is obtained when the movable unit is located at a specific position (FIG. 2; col 15, ln 60 to col 16, ln 6 – FIG. 2 shows that the upper limit of the key position signals S1 is defined as a sensed value that is obtained when the movable unit is located at a specific rest position KR. Therefore, by controlling the light intensity so that “the key position signals S1 in the full dynamic range of the analog-to-digital converter 100j without exceeding it” an optimal light intensity corresponding to a light source of the sensing device is determined according to a sensed value that is obtained when the movable unit is located at a specific position (KR)).
As to claim 12, Ura discloses the configuration device of claim 11, as applied above.
Ura further discloses wherein the parameter setting unit, which is being interpreted as a hardware component running software to perform the claimed functions and the equivalents per MPEP Section 2181 (See applicant’s [0018])(col 7, ln 5-32, especially – “controller 100”) is arranged to: obtain the sensed value based on a current light intensity of the light source; set the current light intensity to be the optimal light intensity when the sensed value is equal to the sensed value upper limit; and increase the current light intensity when the sensed value is lower than the sensed value upper limit (See col 15, ln 60 to col 16, ln 6 – the sensed value (S1) based on a current light intensity of the light source is obtained, and the current light intensity is controlled so “every light-emitting diode 90c radiates the light under the optimum electric conditions, and the key sensors 90 swing the key position signals S1 in the full dynamic range of the analog-to-digital converter 100j without exceeding it” corresponds to the claimed process of obtain the sensed value based on a current light intensity of the light source; set the current light intensity to be the optimal light intensity when the sensed value is equal to the sensed value upper limit; and increase the current light intensity when the sensed value is lower than the sensed value upper limit. In other words, the light intensity is controlled so that in FIG. 2 the output level at the rest position KR does not exceed the full dynamic range of the analog-to-digital converter 100j).
As to claim 13, Ura discloses the configuration device of claim 10, as applied above.
Ura further discloses wherein the parameter setting unit, which is being interpreted as a hardware component running software to perform the claimed functions and the equivalents per MPEP Section 2181 (See applicant’s [0018])(col 7, ln 5-32, especially – “controller 100”) is arranged to determine an optimal light sensitivity corresponding to a sensor of the sensing device according to a sensed value that is obtained when the movable unit is located at a specific position (See col 16, ln 9-27 – the sensed value that is obtained when the movable unit is located at a specific position (the binary value of a digital key position signal S4) is used to determine an optical light sensitivity corresponding to a sensor of the sensing device, which is reflected in an optimal range of binary values of the analog-to-digital converter 100j).
As to claim 14, Ura discloses the configuration device of claim 13, as applied above.
Ura further discloses wherein the parameter setting unit, which is being interpreted as a hardware component running software to perform the claimed functions and the equivalents per MPEP Section 2181 (See applicant’s [0018])(col 7, ln 5-32, especially – “controller 100”) is arranged to: obtain the sensed value based on a current light sensitivity of the sensor ; compare the sensed value with a sensed value upper limit; decrease the current light sensitivity when the sensed value is equal to the sensed value upper limit (See col 16, ln 9-27: the sensed value (the binary value of a digital key position signal S4) based on a current light sensitivity of the sensor is obtained, and the current light sensitivity is controlled so “the associated digital key position signals S4 swings the binary values under the upper limit” corresponds to the claimed process of obtain the sensed value based on a current light sensitivity of the sensor ; compare the sensed value with a sensed value upper limit; decrease the current light sensitivity when the sensed value is equal to the sensed value upper limit); and increase the current light sensitivity when the sensed value is lower than the sensed value upper limit (See col 16, ln 26-36).
As to claim 15, Ura discloses the configuration device of claim 10, as applied above.
Ura further discloses wherein the threshold setting unit, which is being interpreted as a hardware component running software to perform the claimed functions and the equivalents per MPEP Section 2181 (See applicant’s [0018])(col 7, ln 5-32, especially – “controller 100”) is arranged to set a sensed value to be the valid input threshold, wherein the sensed value is obtained when the movable unit is located at a specific position within the predetermined movement range (See FIG. 2 and col 16, ln 36-43 and 49-53: a sensed value LR is set to be the valid input threshold, wherein the sensed value is obtained when the movable unit is located at a specific position within the predetermined movement range (i.e., at a rest position).
As to claim 16, Ura discloses the configuration device of claim 10, as applied above.
Ura further discloses wherein the threshold setting unit, which is being interpreted as a hardware component running software to perform the claimed functions and the equivalents per MPEP Section 2181 (See applicant’s [0018])(col 7, ln 5-32, especially – “controller 100”) is arranged to determine a sensed value upper limit and a sensed value lower limit of the optimal dynamic range; and determine a correspondence between each sensed value and each position of the movable unit within the predetermined movement range (See FIG. 2 and col 16, ln 36-43 and 49-58: a sensed value upper limit and a sensed value lower limit (LE) of the optimal dynamic range are determined, and according to the cited portion a correspondence between each sensed value and each position of the movable unit within the predetermined movement range is determined (“The central processing unit 100a stores the relation between the relative output level SAR and the current shutter/key position, and determines the current shutter/key position on the basis of the relative output level SAR”)).
As to claim 17, Ura discloses the configuration device of claim 16, as applied above.
Ura further discloses wherein the threshold setting unit, which is being interpreted as a hardware component running software to perform the claimed functions and the equivalents per MPEP Section 2181 (See applicant’s [0018])(col 7, ln 5-32, especially – “controller 100”) is arranged to refer to the correspondence to obtain a specific sensed value corresponding to a specific position of the movable unit within the predetermined movement range; and configure the valid input threshold according to the specific sensed value (See FIG. 2 and col 16, ln 36-43 and 49-58: according to the cited portion, the correspondence is referred to obtain a specific sensed value corresponding to a specific position of the movable unit within the predetermined movement range, and in FIG. 2 the valid input threshold LR is configured according to the specific sensed value at the rest position).
As to claim 18, Ura discloses the configuration device of claim 16, as applied above.
Ura further discloses wherein the threshold setting unit, which is being interpreted as a hardware component running software to perform the claimed functions and the equivalents per MPEP Section 2181 (See applicant’s [0018])(col 7, ln 5-32, especially – “controller 100”) is arranged to: record a plurality of stop positions of the movable unit (See col 13, ln 52-67: a plurality of stop positions of the movable unit are recorded (rest positions and end positions); determine a common position based on the plurality of stop positions; refer to the correspondence to obtain a specific sensed value corresponding to the common position; and configure the valid input threshold according to the specific sensed value (See col 16, ln 36-43 and 49-58: according to the cited portion, a common position is determined based on the plurality of stop positions (i.e., a rest position is a common position), and the correspondence is referred to obtain a specific sensed value corresponding to the common position (LR). Referring to FIG. 2, the valid input threshold LR is configured according to the specific sensed value at the common position).
Claim Rejections – 35 USC § 103
10. 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.
11. Claims 19-20 are rejected under 35 U.S.C. 103 as being unpatentable over U.S. Patent No. 6,229,081 B1 to Ura et al. (“Ura”) in view of U.S. Patent Pub. No. 2003/0208324 A1 to Bellwood.
As to claim 19, Ura discloses a method of configuring an optical input system(3 including multiple ones of 3a/90 and multiple ones of 3b/90)(FIG. 3-4: 90a, 90e, 90f, 90h; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 5, ln 7-8, col 6, ln 22-38; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39), wherein the optical input system(3 including multiple ones of 3a/90 and multiple ones of 3b/90)(FIG. 3-4: 90a, 90e, 90f, 90h; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 5, ln 7-8, col 6, ln 22-38; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39 (FIG. 3-4: 90a, 90e, 90f, 90h; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39) includes a plurality of optical input devices(two out of: multiple ones of 3a/90 and multiple ones of 3b/90)(FIG. 3-4: 90a, 90e, 90f, 90h; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39), each optical input device(each of the two out of: multiple ones of 3a/90 and multiple ones of 3b/90)(FIG. 3-4: 90a, 90e, 90f, 90h; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39) includes a movable unit(each of the two out of: multiple ones of 3a/90 and multiple ones of 3b/90)(FIG. 3-4; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39) and a sensing device(90b-90h)(FIG. 3-4: 90a; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39), the movable unit(each of the two out of: multiple ones of 3a/90 and multiple ones of 3b/90)(FIG. 3-4; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39) is arranged to move within a predetermined movement range (FIGs. 2-4: 90a; col 2, ln 30-49; col 9, ln 9-12), the sensing device(90b-90h)(FIG. 3-4: 90a; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39) is arranged to detect a position within the predetermined movement range (FIGs. 2-4: 90b-90h; col 2, ln 30-49; col 9, ln 9-12; col 12, ln 13-17) at which the movable unit(each of the two out of: 3a/90a and 3b/90a)(FIG. 3-4; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 9, ln 9-12; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39) is located (FIG. 2-4: 90a, 90b-90h; Abstract; col 2, ln 30-49; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 9, ln 9-12; col 12, ln 13-17; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39), and the method (FIG. 3-4: 90a, 90e, 90f, 90h, multiple ones of 3a/90 and multiple ones of 3b/90; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39) comprises:
with respect to each optical input device(each of the two out of: multiple ones of 3a/90 and multiple ones of 3b/90)(FIG. 3-4: 90a, 90e, 90f, 90h; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39), adjusting an optical setting of the sensing device(90b-90h)(FIG. 3-4: 90a, 90b-90h; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39) to obtain an optimal dynamic range of the sensing device(90b-90h)(FIG. 3-4: 90a; col 15, ln 60 to col 16, ln 6); and
determining a valid input threshold (FIGs. 2-4: 90a, 90b-90h; col 6, ln 26-38; col 12, ln 13-17; col 15, ln 60 to col 16, ln 6col 16, ln 36-43, 49-53 – FIG. 2 shows the relationship between the relative output level SAR and the position of the current key/shutter {each of: 3a/90a & 3b/90a} that includes a valid threshold of the optical input {e.g., LR, LE}. Thus, by calculating the relative output level SAR based on the optimal dynamic range, a valid input threshold of the optical input device is determined based on the optimal dynamic range.) corresponding to each optical input device(each of the two out of: 3a/90 and 3b/90)(FIG. 3-4: 90b-90h; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39) based on the optimal dynamic range (FIG. 3-4: 90b-90h, col 15, ln 60 to col 16, ln 6) of each optical input device(each of the two out of: 3a/90 and 3b/90)(FIG. 3-4: 90b-90h; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39);
wherein the plurality of optical input devices(two out of: multiple ones of 3a/90 and multiple ones of 3b/90)(FIG. 3-4: 90a, 90e, 90f, 90h; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 22-38; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39) correspond to an input threshold (FIGs. 2-4: 90a, 90b-90h; col 6, ln 26-38; col 12, ln 13-17; col 15, ln 60 to col 16, ln 6col 16, ln 36-43, 49-53 – FIG. 2 shows the relationship between the relative output level SAR and the position of the current key/shutter {each of: 3a/90a & 3b/90a} that includes a valid threshold of the optical input {e.g., LR, LE}. Thus, by calculating the relative output level SAR based on the optimal dynamic range, a valid input threshold of the optical input device is determined based on the optimal dynamic range.), wherein the optical input system(3 including multiple ones of 3a/90 and multiple ones of 3b/90)(FIG. 3-4: 90a, 90e, 90f, 90h; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 5, ln 7-8, col 6, ln 22-38; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39) is a computer keyboard(3 including multiple ones of 3a/90 and multiple ones of 3b/90)(FIG. 3-4: 90a, 90e, 90f, 90h; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 5, ln 7-8, col 6, ln 22-38, 58-68; col 13, ln 8-9; col 15, ln 31-39).
Ura does not expressly disclose wherein the plurality of optical input devices correspond to at least two different valid input thresholds, respectively.
Bellwood discloses wherein the plurality of input devices correspond to at least two different valid input thresholds, respectively (¶0027).
Before the effective filing date of the claimed invention it would have been obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art to modify Ura with Bellwood to provide a method of configuring an optical input system that is adjustable based on how difficult it is for the user to depress each input device (¶0027 – different threshold levels may be set for different keys) by adjusting input thresholds for different input devices depending on how difficult it is for the user to depress the input device (¶0027).
Ura and Bellwood teach wherein the plurality of optical input devices correspond to at least two different valid input thresholds, respectively (Ura: FIGs. 2-4: two out of: multiple ones of 3a/90 and multiple ones of 3b/90, 90a, 90b-90h; Abstract; col 4, ln 56-59; col 6, ln 26-38; col 12, ln 13-17; col 13, ln 8-9, col 15, ln 31-39, col 15, ln 60 to col 16, ln 6col 16, ln 36-43, 49-53; Bellwood: ¶0027).
As to claim 20, Ura and Bellwood teach the method of claim 19, as applied above.
Ura and Bellwood further teach wherein the step of determining the valid input threshold corresponding to each optical input device comprises: determining the valid input threshold corresponding to each optical input device according to a relative location of each optical input device with respect to the optical input system (Ura: FIGs. 2-4: 90a, 90b-90h; col 6, ln 26-38; col 12, ln 13-17; col 15, ln 60 to col 16, ln 6col 16, ln 36-43, 49-53 – FIG. 2 shows the relationship between the relative output level SAR and the position of the current key/shutter {each of: 3a/90a & 3b/90a} that includes a valid threshold of the optical input {e.g., LR, LE}. Thus, by calculating the relative output level SAR based on the optimal dynamic range, a valid input threshold of the optical input device is determined based on the optimal dynamic range; Bellwood: ¶0027).
The motivation to combine the additional teachings of Bellwood is for the same reasoning set forth above for claim 19.
Other Relevant Prior Art
12. Other relevant prior art includes:
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U.S. Patent No. 5,567,902 A to Kimble et al. discloses a sensing device(12)(FIG. 2; col 5, ln 15-24) being arranged to detect a position within a predetermined movement range at which a movable unit(40)(FIG. 2; col 5, ln 16-20) is located to generate an optical sensed value by measuring reflected light (FIGs. 5 and 7; col 9, ln 9-18) reflected off a bottom of the moveable unit (FIG. 2: 36 is reflected off a bottom of the moveable unit 40).
Conclusion
13. Any inquiry concerning this communication or earlier communications from the examiner should be directed to KIRK W HERMANN whose telephone number is (571) 270-3891. The examiner can normally be reached on Monday-Friday, 9am-6pm, EST.
If attempts to reach the examiner by telephone are unsuccessful, the examiner’s supervisor, LunYi Lao can be reached on (571) 272-7671. The fax phone number for the organization where this application or proceeding is assigned is 571-273-8300.
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/KIRK W HERMANN/Primary Examiner, Art Unit 2619
1 See e.g., the Cambridge Dictionary definition of button as “a switch that you press to control a piece of equipment”.
2 See e.g., the Cambridge Dictionary definition of computer as “an electronic machine that can store and arrange large amounts of information”.