本案的代表請求項是獨立項5如下:
5. A humeral implant comprising a humeral surface component having a non-articular surface configured for long-lasting fixation of the implant on a humeral head and no stem.
該請求項有二個觀察重點,(1) 功能性字句以及(2)負面限制條件:
(1) 功能性字句: non-articular surface configured for long-lasting fixation
(2) 負面限制條件: no stem
In re Chudik, Appeal 2016-2673 (Fed. Cir. August 25, 2017)
The patentability of an apparatus claim “depends on the claimed structure, not on the use or purpose of that structure.” Catalina Mktg. Int’l v. Coolsavings.com, Inc., 289 F.3d 801, 809 (Fed. Cir. 2002); see also In re Schreiber, 128 F.3d 1473, 1477 (Fed. Cir. 1997) (“It is well settled that the recitation of a new intended use for an old product does not make a claim to that old product patentable.”)