Office Action 1: Non-Final Rejection (2025-06-11)
Rejection types: 102 - Lack of Novelty, 112 - Written Description/Enablement

CLAIMS:
CLAIMS

What is claimed is:

1\. A lock apparatus capable of locking a second member with respect to
a first member, and also capable of releasing the lock, the lock apparatus comprising:a rotation body that is rotatable and located on one of the first member and the second member;
a pair of lock bodies that are movable in a first direction, and in
which one end portion side of each is inserted into and removed from a pair of lock receiving portions provided in the other of the first member and the second member by respective movement; anda connecting portion that rotatably connects the other end side of one lock body to one side with respect to a rotation center of the rotation body, and rotatably connects the other end side of the other lock body to the other side with respect to the rotation center of the rotation body,
wherein at least one connecting portion includes a rotation body-shaped protrusion portion provided on one of the rotation body and the lock body,
a cylindrical holding wall portion that holds an outer peripheral surface of the protrusion portion and a retaining portion that protrudes from the holding wall portion, and
an insertion portion that is recessed in the other of the rotation body and the lock body to rotatably receive the protrusion portion, and 27
the holding wall portion and the retaining portion are set in pairs in a direction that is inclined with respect to the first direction and a second direction orthogonal thereto, when viewed from an insertion direction of the protrusion portion into the insertion portion.

2\. The lock apparatus according to The lock apparatus according to wherein the holding wall portion and the retaining portion are set in pairs in a plurality of directions that are inclined with respect to the first direction and the second direction, and are directions symmetrical to each
other in the first direction when viewed from the insertion direction of the protrusion portion into insertion portion.

3\. The lock apparatus according to The lock apparatus according to wherein at least one connecting portion has gap portions continuous
to the insertion portion and located between the holding wall portions in the first direction and the second direction, respectively.

4\. The lock apparatus according to The lock apparatus according to wherein the protrusion portion has a spindle shape.

5\. A storage apparatus comprising:a main body portion that is a first member having an opening portion;
a lid member that is a second member capable of opening and closing the opening portion; and

the lock apparatus according to claim 1, which is provided on any one of the main body portion and the lid member, and locks the lid member to the main body portion in a state of closing the opening portion. 5 10 15 20

OFFICE ACTION:
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 .
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 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.
Claim Rejections - 35 USC § 112
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, 2, 3, 4, and 5 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.
Regarding claim 1, page 1, lines 9-12 (as numbered) and page 2, line 2, it is unclear, therefore indefinite, in what direction the pair of lock bodies are claimed to move.  While a lock body is movable in a first direction for insertion or removal from a lock receiving portion, that lock body is not movable in that first direction for both insertion and removal.  It is the Examiner’s understanding of the instant invention the pair of lock bodies move in opposite directions for their simultaneous insertion and removal from pair of lock receiving portions.  Instant specification paragraph [0022] discusses the lock body 12 extending in left-right directions, [0026] discusses rotation body 11 being biased into the extended, locked configuration by spring 20.  For purposes of examination, the Examiner will interpret the claim to read “moveable along a first axis” in place of “movable in a first direction” on page 1, line 9 (as numbered), and “with respect to the first axis” in place of “with respect to the first direction” on page 2, line 2 (as numbered).
Regarding claims 2-5, they are rejected because they pend from claim 1
Regarding claim 2, it is unclear, therefore indefinite, in what direction the pair of lock bodies are claimed to move.  While a lock body is movable in a first direction for insertion or removal from a lock receiving portion, that lock body is not movable in that first direction for both insertion and removal.  It is the Examiner’s understanding of the instant invention the pair of lock bodies move in opposite directions for their simultaneous insertion and removal from pair of lock receiving portions.  Instant specification paragraph [0022] discusses the lock body 12 extending in left-right directions, [0026] discusses rotation body 11 being biased into the extended, locked configuration by spring 20.  For purposes of examination, the Examiner will interpret the claim to read “with respect to the first axis” in place of “with respect to the first direction” on lines 8-9 (as numbered), and “along the first axis” in place of “in the first direction” on line 10 (as numbered).
Regarding claim 3, it is unclear, therefore indefinite, in what direction the pair of lock bodies are claimed to move.  While a lock body is movable in a first direction for insertion or removal from a lock receiving portion, that lock body is not movable in that first direction for both insertion and removal.  It is the Examiner’s understanding of the instant invention the pair of lock bodies move in opposite directions for their simultaneous insertion and removal from pair of lock receiving portions.  Instant specification paragraph [0022] discusses the lock body 12 extending in left-right directions, [0026] discusses rotation body 11 being biased into the extended, locked configuration by spring 20.  For purposes of examination, the Examiner will interpret the claim to read “with respect to the first axis” in place of “in the first direction” on lines 15-16 (as numbered).
Claim Rejections - 35 USC § 102
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.
Claims 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 are rejected under 35 U.S.C. 102(a)(1) as being anticipated by Minnich et al., US 20220341224 A1 (hereinafter Minnich).
Regarding claim 1. Minnich teaches a lock apparatus (latch assembly 2000) capable of locking a second member (door 102) with respect to a first member (dashboard discussed in [0106]), and also capable of releasing the lock ([0004-0005]; Note: other descriptions or figures of other embodiments may be cited for clarity of shared features), the lock apparatus comprising:
a rotation body (rotor 2006) that is rotatable and located on one of the first member and the second member (Fig 2 depicts the latch mounted on 102);
a pair of lock bodies (pawls 2002; 2004) that are movable along a first axis (see claim interpretation under 35 § USC 112 rejection of claim 1; Annotated excerpt Fig 64-Minnich depicts the longitudinal axis of 2000 and any lock body movement would be along this axis would result in either the extension of 2002 into 2060 or the withdrawal of 2002 from 2060), and in which one end portion side of each (Annotated excerpt Fig 64 depicts the one end portion side of 2002) is inserted into and removed from a pair of lock receiving portions provided in the other of the first member (striker 2060; Fig 64) and the second member by respective movement; and
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Annotated excerpt Fig 64-Minnich
a connecting portion (see Annotated excerpt Fig 58-Minnich) that rotatably connects the other end side of one lock body (Annotated excerpt Fig 64 depicts the other end side of 2002; [0229]) to one side with respect to a rotation center of the rotation body (see Annotated excerpt Fig 58-Minnich), and rotatably connects the other end side of the other lock body to the other side with respect to the rotation center of the rotation body (Annotated excerpt Fig 64-Minnich depicts other end side of both 2002 and 2004 connected to opposite sides of 2006 with respect to the rotation center),
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Annotated excerpt Fig 58-Minnich
wherein at least one connecting portion includes
a rotation body-shaped protrusion portion (protrusion portion 2010) provided on one of the rotation body (Annotated excerpt Fig 58-Minnich depicts 2010 provided on 2006) and the lock body,
a cylindrical holding wall portion (Annotated excerpt Fig 61-Minnich depicts the cylindrical holding wall comprising portion 2024; prong 2030) that holds an outer peripheral surface of the protrusion portion [0236] and a retaining portion that protrudes from the holding wall portion (Annotated excerpt Fig 61-Minnich depicts the retaining portion comprising lower portion of rounded surface 2023 away from 2022; interior surface 2032), and
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Annotated excerpt Fig 61-Minnich
an insertion portion that is recessed in the other of the rotation body and the lock body (Annotated excerpt Fig 61-Minnich depicts the insertion portion to be the upper portion of rounded surface 2023 towards 2022), to rotatably receive the protrusion portion [0235], and
the holding wall portion and the retaining portion are set in pairs (Annotated excerpt Fig 61-Minnich depicts 2032 and lower portion of 2023 away from 2022 set in pairs) in a direction that is inclined with respect to the first axis (see claim interpretation under 35 § USC 112 rejection of claim 1) and a second direction orthogonal thereto, when viewed from an insertion direction (see Annotated excerpt Fig 58-Minnich) of the protrusion portion into the insertion portion (Annotated excerpt Fig 58-Minnich, Annotated excerpt Fig 61-Minnich, and Fig 60 depict 2024;2030;2023 away from 2022; 2032 to be set in pairs and not aligned with, therefore inclined to, the first axis and the second direction when viewed from the insertion direction).
Regarding claim 2, Minnich teaches the lock apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the holding wall portion (Annotated excerpt Fig 61-Minnich depicts the cylindrical holding wall comprising portion 2024; prong 2030) and the retaining portion (Annotated excerpt Fig 61-Minnich depicts the retaining portion comprising lower portion of rounded surface 2023 away from 2022; interior surface 2032) are set in pairs (Annotated excerpt Fig 61-Minnich depicts 2032 and lower portion of 2023 away from 2022 set in pairs) in a plurality of directions that are inclined with respect to the first axis (see claim interpretation under 35 § USC 112 rejection of claim 2) and the second direction, and are directions symmetrical to each other along the first axis (see claim interpretation under 35 § USC 112 rejection of claim 2) when viewed from the insertion direction of the protrusion portion into insertion portion (Annotated excerpt Fig 58-Minnich, Annotated excerpt Fig 61-Minnich, and Fig 61 depict 2024;2030;2023 away from 2022; 2032 to be set in pairs in a plurality of directions inclined to and symmetrical to the first axis and the second direction when viewed from the insertion direction).
Regarding claim 3, Minnich teaches the lock apparatus according to claim 2, wherein at least one connecting portion (see Annotated excerpt Fig 58-Minnich) has gap portions continuous to the insertion portion (Annotated excerpt Fig 61-Minnich depicts the insertion portion to be the upper portion of rounded surface 2023 towards 2022) and located between the holding wall portions (Annotated excerpt Fig 61-Minnich depicts the cylindrical holding wall comprising portion 2024; prong 2030) along the first axis (see claim interpretation under 35 § USC 112 rejection of claim 3) and the second direction, respectively (Annotated excerpt Fig 60-Minnich depicts gap portions continuous to the insertion portion and between holding wall portions along the first axis and second direction).
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Annotated excerpt Fig 60-Minnich
Regarding claim 4, Minnich teaches the lock apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the protrusion portion (2010) has a spindle shape (2010 is spindle shaped similarly to 32 of the instant invention).
Regarding claim 5, Minnich teaches a storage apparatus comprising: a main body portion that is a first member having an opening portion (the first member is a dashboard of a vehicle’s main body discussed in [0106] in which door 102 is mounted over an opening in the first member) ; a lid member that is a second member capable of opening and closing the opening portion (102; [0106]); and the lock apparatus according to claim 1, which is provided on any one of the main body portion and the lid member (Figs 1 depicts the lock apparatus mounted to 102), and locks the lid member to the main body portion in a state of closing the opening portion ([0173] discusses similar lock 904 locking the door 902).
Conclusion
The prior art made of record and not relied upon is considered pertinent to applicant's disclosure.   The following patents are cited to further show the state of the art for lock apparatus for storage apparatus.
Nakasone, US 12044049 B2, teaches a lock device for opening/closing body with rotatable body with protrusion portions and a connecting portion with holding wall portions, retaining portions, and insertion portions.
Huang, CN 110805366 A, teaches an unlocking controller and automobile glove compartment locking mechanism with rotatable body with protrusion portions and a connecting portion with holding wall portions, retaining portions, and insertion portions.
Nakasone, WO 2018008598 A1, teaches a lock device production method with rotatable body with protrusion portions and a connecting portion with holding wall portions, retaining portions, and insertion portions.
Nakasone, GB 2540085 A, teaches a locking device for opening/closing body with rotatable body with protrusion portions and a connecting portion with holding wall portions, retaining portions, and insertion portions.

APPLICANT REBUTTAL: REMARKSClaims 1-17 are pending in the application upon entry of the amendments.Favorable reconsideration in light of the amendments, the new claims, and the remarks which follow is respectfully requested.The Amendments Claim 1 is amended to clarify the movement of the pair of lock bodies as "movable along a first axis", in accordance with the Examiner's suggested interpretation. The phrase "with respect to the first direction" is amended to "with respect to the first axis". Additional language is included to support structural clarity, including the presence of a pair of notch portions provided between the holding wall portions.New claims 6 to 17 are added. Support for these claims is identified in the specification, as detailed below:New claim 6 is supported in paragraphs [0024] and [0025] of the present specification.New claim 7 is supported in paragraph [0026] of the present specification.New claim 8 is supported in paragraph [0021] of the present specification.New claim 9 is supported in paragraphs [0021] and [0023] of the present specification.New claim 10 is supported in paragraph [0022] of the present specification.New claim 11 is supported in paragraph [0027] of the present specification.New claim 12 is supported in paragraph [0024] of the present specification.New claim 13 is supported in paragraphs [0012] and [0013] of the present specification.New claim 14 is supported in paragraphs [0010] and [0028] of the present specification.New claim 15 is supported in paragraph [0023] of the present specification.New claim 16 is supported in paragraphs [0014] and [0028] of the present specification.New claim 17 is supported in paragraphs [0021] and [0029] of the present specification.No amendments are made to the specification as the amended claim language is fully supported by the original disclosure.The Indefiniteness Rejection Claims 1-5 stand rejected under 35 U.S.C. § 112(b) for indefiniteness with regard to unclear expression regarding the direction of movement of the pair of lock bodies. The claims are amended so that the metes and bounds thereof is clear and understandable to one skilled in the art with reasonable certainty.More specifically, claim 1 is amended as described above to recite that the pair of lock bodies are "movable along a first axis". This language directly aligns with the Examiner's interpretation provided in the Office Action, and clarifies that the pair of lock bodies move in opposite directions along the same axis (i.e., the first axis) for simultaneous engagement with and disengagement from a pair of lock receiving portions.The amendments also address the Examiner's concern that the original language could imply that each lock body moves in the same direction for both insertion and removal, which was not the Applicant's intention. The amended claim now accurately reflects the operation of the invention as described in the specification (see paragraphs [0022] and [0026]), where the lock bodies extend in the left-right direction and move in opposite directions through rotational actuation.Furthermore, since claims 2-5 depend from amended claim 1 and the basis of their rejection was dependency on an indefinite claim, the amendments to claim 1 also overcome the rejections of dependent claims 2-5.Accordingly, Applicant respectfully submits that the rejection under 35 U.S.C. § 112(b) is fully overcome.The Novelty Rejection Claims 1-5 stand rejected under 35 U.S.C. § 102(a)(1) over Minnich (U.S.Patent Pub. 2022/0341224). Minnich relates to a vehicle glove box latch sub- assembly including a rotor that is pivotably connected to a rotor mounting portion of a housing, and at least one pawl rotatably coupled to the rotor and having opposing ends. The rotor includes a body, a post disposed on the body, and rotation limiters extending from the post. One end of the opposing ends of the pawl includes an engagement portion that is configured to be engaged with an opening in the vehicle in which the glove box is mounted, and the other end of the opposing ends of the pawl includes a socket that is mounted to the post of the rotor for securing the pawl to the rotor. The socket includes a rotation limiter that is configured to bear on the rotation limiter of the post upon relative rotation between the post and the socket.To establish anticipation, each and every claim feature must be disclosed in a single cited art document. Claim 1 is amended to further clarify a distinguishing structural feature of the invention.Specifically, the amended claim now recites:"... wherein the insertion portion (e.g., 33b) comprises a pair of notch portions (47b) arranged to face each other, each being provided between the holding wall portions (e.g., 43)," as illustrated in Fig. 1 B of the present application.4763 holding wall portions (43) S3b 47,
7 a pi)  r  f notch paor1n  (47  ) Fig. 1 B of the present application While Minnich discloses certain cutout or notch-like features (see Annotated Fig. 61 of Minnich below), those features are clearly positioned adjacent to slit portions, and are not located between cylindrical holding wall portions. Instead, the notches in Minnich appear to be offset from the primary retention structure and serve a different mechanical role.In contrast, in the present invention, the pair of notch portions (e.g., 47b) are explicitly disposed between the pair of holding wall portions (e.g., 43).This arrangement contributes directly to the structural function of the holding mechanism by stabilizing the protrusion portion (e.g., 32b) and reliably suppressing rattling or looseness at the connecting portion. This is a critical technical advantage of the claimed configuration, which is neither disclosed nor suggested in Minnich.Accordingly, since Minnich does not disclose each and every element of claim 1, Minnich does not anticipate the invention as now claimed, and the rejection under 35 U.S.C. § 102(a)(1) should be withdrawn.Newly added claim 6 and Distinction Over Minnich Newly added claim 6 further specifies that:(1) the insertion portion comprises a pair of slit portions (e.g., 47a) arranged to face each other; and (2) the pair of notch portions (e.g., 47b) and the pair of slit portions (e.g., 47a) are provided in a vertical orientation.Minnich does not disclose or suggest these specific structural features. While certain grooves or contours may be observed in the figures of Minnich (e.g., Annotated Fig. 61), there is no disclosure or teaching of a configuration in which a pair of slit portions and a pair of notch portions are arranged to face each other and vertically aligned with respect to the insertion direction of a protrusion portion.In contrast, the present invention employs such a paired and vertically aligned structure (see Fig. 1A and 1 B of the present application), which facilitates improved flexibility of the holding wall portions and contributes to smooth insertion and enhanced stability of the connection. These effects are neither taught nor inherently present in Minnich.Accordingly, the subject matter of claim 6 is not disclosed by Minnich, and the claim should be considered novel under 35 U.S.C. § 102.Newly added claim 7 and Distinction Over Minnich Newly added claim 7 recites that the rotation body (e.g., 11) is biased toward a locked position by a spring (e.g., 20) disposed between a base body (e.g., 10) and the rotation body (11).Minnich does not disclose or suggest this configuration. In particular, although Minnich may include components such as pawls and rotors (e.g., 2006) for latch control, there is no disclosure of a spring element disposed between a base body and the rotation body that actively biases the rotation body toward a locked position.In contrast, the present invention utilizes a spring (e.g., a torsion spring) specifically disposed between the base body (10) and the rotation body (11), as shown in Fig. 5 and described in paragraph [0026] of the present specification.This spring ensures that the rotation body is normally urged toward the locked state, thereby enhancing the reliability of locking without requiring continuous external force from the user.Minnich lacks any such teaching or functional equivalent. Therefore, claim 7 is not anticipated by Minnich, and its subject matter is novel under 35 U.S.C. § 102.Newly added claim 8 and Distinction Over Minnich Newly added claim 8 further specifies that the base body (e.g., 10) is formed as a separate member from the second member (e.g., 5) and is attached thereto.Minnich fails to disclose or suggest such a structural relationship. In Minnich, the latch assembly appears to be mounted directly to the door or the surrounding panel (see, e.g., Fig. 2; paragraph [0106]); however, there is no clear teaching that the base of the rotation mechanism is formed as a separate member and then attached to the second member (e.g., the door 102).In contrast, the present invention distinctly defines that the base body is a discrete, separate component that is independently manufactured and later attached to the second member. This modular design facilitates improved manufacturing flexibility, easier assembly, and potential component interchangeability.Because Minnich does not teach or imply such separation and attachment, the subject matter of claim 8 is not anticipated under 35 U.S.C. § 102, and patentability should be acknowledged.Newly added claim 9 and Distinction Over Minnich Claim 9 recites that the lock apparatus includes an operated body (e.g., 13) attached to the base body (e.g., 10), which is operated by a user to rotate the rotation body (e.g., 11).Minnich does not disclose such a user-operated component directly connected to the base and configured to rotate the rotor. While Minnich shows latch actuation, the structure for user operation is not clearly separated or defined as an operated body attached to a base body.In contrast, the present invention includes a clearly defined operated body (13) mounted to the base body (10) and designed specifically for user manipulation to rotate the rotation body (11), as shown in Fig. 1 and described in paragraph [0021].Accordingly, claim 9 is not anticipated by Minnich, and novelty under 35 U.S.C. § 102 is maintained.Newly added claim 10 and Distinction Over Minnich Claim 10 specifies that the pair of lock bodies (e.g., 12a, 12b) extend in the first axis.Minnich does not clearly disclose that the pair of pawls (2002, 2004) extend along a common axis, or more specifically, along a defined first axis as recited. While movement along an axis may occur, Minnich does not describe the structural extension of both lock bodies in alignment with such an axis.In contrast, the present invention explicitly defines both lock bodies as extending along the first axis, which contributes to the symmetrical and coordinated locking operation. This structural arrangement is neither taught nor suggested in Minnich.Therefore, claim 10 is not anticipated, and patentability should be recognized under 35 U.S.C. § 102.Newly added claim 11 and Distinction Over Minnich Claim 11 recites that the cylindrical holding wall portion (e.g., 43) includes a plurality of gaps extending in the insertion direction of the protrusion portion (e.g., 32b).Minnich does not disclose such a feature. While certain contours or surfaces are shown (e.g., in Fig. 61), there is no teaching of multiple gaps formed in the holding wall portion that extend along the direction of protrusion insertion.In contrast, the present invention includes slit-like gaps formed in the cylindrical wall, extending in the insertion direction, to allow elastic deformation and ensure smooth insertion of the protrusion portion. This configuration is essential to the present invention's function and is absent from Minnich.Accordingly, claim 11 is novel over Minnich and should not be rejected under 35 U.S.C. § 102.Newly Added Claims 12-17 and Distinction Over Minnich Claim 12 recites that the retaining portion (e.g., 46) is provided as a claw portion protruding from the holding wall portion (e.g., 43).Minnich does not disclose any claw-shaped retaining feature protruding from a cylindrical wall. The engagement structures in Minnich lack this claw-based retention geometry.Therefore, claim 12 is not anticipated by Minnich.Claim 13 recites that the protrusion portion (e.g., 32b) and the insertion portion (e.g., 33b) are configured such that the protrusion portion is inserted with an interference fit.Minnich does not describe or imply an interference-fit relationship between the protrusion and the corresponding receiving portion. Any engagement appears to rely on other forms of retention.Thus, claim 13 remains novel over Minnich.Claim 14 recites that the insertion portion includes gap portions continuous to the insertion portion and located between the holding wall portions in both the first axis and the second axis.Minnich does not disclose any gap structure positioned and oriented as such in relation to the holding wall portions.Accordingly, claim 14 is not disclosed in Minnich.Claim 15 specifies that the rotation body (e.g., 11) is rotatably supported by a support shaft (e.g., 15) that is integrally formed with the base body (e.g., 10).While Minnich includes a rotor, there is no teaching that the support shaft is integrally formed with the base structure. The structural integration claimed here is not found in Minnich.Therefore, claim 15 is novel over Minnich.Claim 16 recites that the gap portions between the holding wall portions are formed to allow elastic deformation of the holding wall portions.Minnich fails to disclose any such functionally intended gap structure that allows elastic deformation of the holding walls. Thus, claim 16 is not anticipated by Minnich.Claim 17 includes an operating body (e.g., 13) with a pressing portion (e.g., 51), the pressing portion (e.g., 51) is configured to:move the first lock body (e.g., 12a) in the first axis;rotate the rotation body (e.g., 11), thereby move the second lock body (e.g., 12b) in the first axis in conjunction with the rotation body, such that one end portion of each of the pair of lock bodies (e.g., 12a,1 2b) is simultaneously removed from the pair of lock receiving portions.Minnich does not disclose such a multi-stage coordinated mechanical operation initiated via a pressing portion attached to an operating body. The claimed mechanism and functional sequence are absent from Minnich's disclosure.As a result, claim 17 is novel over Minnich.Accordingly, Applicant respectfully submits that the rejections under 35 U.S.C. §§ 112(b) and 102(a)(1) are fully addressed and overcome, and respectfully requests withdrawal of the rejections and allowance of the application.In the event any fees are due in connection with this document or the Office Action, the Commissioner is authorized to charge those fees to Deposit Account No. 50-1063.Should the Examiner believe a telephone interview would be helpful to expedite favorable prosecution, the Examiner is invited to contact applicants' undersigned representative at the telephone number below.Respectfully submitted, AMIN, TUROCY & WATSON, LLP/Greg Turocy/ Gregory Turocy Reg. No. 36,952 200 Park Avenue, Suite 300 Beachwood, Ohio 44122 Telephone (216) 696-8730 Facsimile (216) 696-8731

NEXT OFFICE ACTION: 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 .
Response to Amendment
The Amendments filed August 5, 2025 have been entered.  Claims 1-17 remain pending in the application.  Applicant’s amendments have overcome the 35 USC § 112(b) rejections of claims 1-5 previously set forth in the Non-Final Office Action mailed June 11, 2025.
Reasons for Allowance
The following is a statement of reasons for the indication of allowable subject matter: The prior art does not teach or fairly suggest the lock apparatus as claimed in independent claim 1of the instant application.  The examiner can find no motivation to combine or modify the references of record without the use of impermissible hindsight and/or destroying the references.
Regarding claim 1, the prior art of record; Minnich et al., US 20220341224 A1, Nakasone, US 12044049 B2, and Nakasone, WO 2018008598 A1; teaches lock apparatus relevant to the claimed invention, but fails, both individually and in combination, to teach a lock apparatus having each and every limitation of the claims.
Specifically, regarding claim 1, while Minnich teaches it is known in the art for a lock apparatus capable of locking a second member with respect to a first member, and also capable of releasing the lock, the lock apparatus comprising: a rotation body that is rotatable and located on one of the first member and the second member; a pair of lock bodies that are movable along a first axis, and in which one end portion side of each is inserted into and removed from a pair of lock receiving portions provided in the other of the first member and the second member by respective movement; and a connecting portion that rotatably connects the other end side of one lock body to one side with respect to a rotation center of the rotation body, and rotatably connects the other end side of the other lock body to the other side with respect to the rotation center of the rotation body, wherein at least one connecting portion includes a rotation body-shaped protrusion portion provided on one of the rotation body and the lock body, a cylindrical holding wall portion that holds an outer peripheral surface of the protrusion portion and a retaining portion that protrudes from the holding wall portion, and an insertion portion that is recessed in the other of the rotation body and the lock body to rotatably receive the protrusion portion, and the holding wall portion and the retaining portion are set in pairs in a direction that is inclined with respect to the first axis and a second axis orthogonal thereto, when viewed from an insertion direction of the protrusion portion into the insertion, wherein the insertion portion comprises a pair of gap portions arranged to face each other, each being provided between the holding wall portions, one of ordinary skill in the art would not find it obvious to modify the gap structures of Minnich to be notches as claimed in the instant application wherein the insertion portion comprises a pair of notch portions arranged to face each other, each being provided between the holding wall portions without the use of impermissible hindsight and/or destroying the references.
Therefore, the prior art of record does not disclose the claimed lock apparatus.
Any comments considered necessary by applicant must be submitted no later than the payment of the issue fee and, to avoid processing delays, should preferably accompany the issue fee.  Such submissions should be clearly labeled “Comments on Statement of Reasons for Allowance.”
Conclusion

CITED REFERENCE SUMMARIES: Ref US20040168487A1: Claims:
A lid lock apparatus for a glove box, which is attached to inside of a lid to engage hook portions with the glove box, the lid lock apparatus comprising: a swing member a swing axis of which is swingably supported by a lid of the glove box; a pair of lock arms, which are disposed in a symmetrical manner with respect to the swing axis, extend in a horizontal direction, and each includes the hook portion at a tip end thereof; and a subassembly member for bringing the lock arms close to each other and bringing the lock arms and the swing member in a compacted subassembly state, wherein: the swing member is disposed in a symmetrical manner with respect to the swing axis and includes a pair of cam grooves extending with slanting; and the lock arms include cam pins for engaging with the cam grooves to move the lock arms in opposite directions.
a swing member a swing axis of which is swingably supported by a lid of the glove box;
a pair of lock arms, which are disposed in a symmetrical manner with respect to the swing axis, extend in a horizontal direction, and each includes the hook portion at a tip end thereof; and
a subassembly member for bringing the lock arms close to each other and bringing the lock arms and the swing member in a compacted subassembly state, wherein:
the swing member is disposed in a symmetrical manner with respect to the swing axis and includes a pair of cam grooves extending with slanting; and
the lock arms include cam pins for engaging with the cam grooves to move the lock arms in opposite directions.
The lid lock apparatus for the glove box according to claim 1 , wherein: the swing member includes a lever portion extending in a diameter direction; and the subassembly member includes a spring one end of which is engaged with the lever portion and the other end of which is engaged with the lock arm.
the swing member includes a lever portion extending in a diameter direction; and
the subassembly member includes a spring one end of which is engaged with the lever portion and the other end of which is engaged with the lock arm.
The lid lock apparatus for the glove box according to claim 2 , wherein the hook portions are biased and engaged with the glove box when the one end of the spring is changed in an engagement destination thereof to the lid from the lever portion.
The lid lock apparatus for the glove box according to claim 1 , wherein the lock arm includes a pin, which is pushed by the lever portion to move the lock arms in pulling directions to each other thereby to release the engagement between the hook portion and the glove box.
The lid lock apparatus for the glove box according to claim 1 , wherein the subassembly member includes a spring one end of which is engaged with one of the lock arms and the other end of which is engaged with the other of the lock arms.
The lid lock apparatus for the glove box according to claim 5 , wherein the hook portion is biased and engaged with the glove box when the one end of the spring is changed in an engagement destination thereof to the lid from the lock arm.
The lid lock apparatus for the glove box according to claim 1 , wherein the subassembly member includes rods provided at the lock arms and guide portions provided at the lock arms, for holding the rod of the counterpart lock arm slidably.
The lid lock apparatus for the glove box according to claim 2 , wherein the subassembly member includes rods provided at the lock arms and guide portions provided at the lock arms, for holding the rod of the counterpart lock arm slidably.
The lid lock apparatus for the glove box according to claim 3 , wherein the subassembly member includes rods provided at the lock arms and guide portions provided at the lock arms, for holding the rod of the counterpart lock arm slidably.
The lid lock apparatus for the glove box according to claim 5 , wherein the subassembly member includes rods provided at the lock arms and guide portions provided at the lock arms, for holding the rod of the counterpart lock arm slidably.
The lid lock apparatus for the glove box according to claim 6 , wherein the subassembly member includes rods provided at the lock arms and guide portions provided at the lock arms, for holding the rod of the counterpart lock arm slidably.
The lid lock apparatus for the glove box according to one of claim 1 , wherein the subassembly member includes rods provided at the lock arms and engagement portions provided at the lock arms, for snap-fitting with the rod of the counterpart lock arm.
The lid lock apparatus for the glove box according to claim 1 , wherein the subassembly member includes rods provided at the lock arms, guide portions provided at the lock arms, for holding the rod of the counterpart lock arm slidably, and engagement portions for snap-fitting the rods and the guide portions.
The lid lock apparatus for the glove box according to claim 1 , wherein the subassembly member includes rods provided at the lock arms, guide portions provided at the lock arms, for holding the rod of the counterpart lock arm slidably, and engagement portions for snap-fitting the swing member and the lock arm.
The lid lock apparatus for the glove box according to claim 7 , wherein the rods slide with the guide portions when the hook portions are engaged with the glove box.
The lid lock apparatus for the glove box according to claim 8 , wherein the rods slide with the guide portions when the hook portions are engaged with the glove box.
The lid lock apparatus for the glove box according to claim 9 , wherein the rods slide with the guide portions when the hook portions are engaged with the glove box.
The lid lock apparatus for the glove box according to claim 10 , wherein the rods slide with the guide portions when the hook portions are engaged with the glove box.
The lid lock apparatus for the glove box according to claim 11 , wherein the rods slide with the guide portions when the hook portions are engaged with the glove box.
Ref US7455333B2: Claims:
A side lock apparatus for a lid for covering and uncovering an opening of a vehicle, the apparatus comprising: a rotor rotatably supported on a rear side of the lid; a pair of rods which are brought into engagement with engagement portions having positions which are point symmetrical relative to an axial center of the rotor at proximal end portions thereof and are supported in such a manner that distal end portions thereof appear from and disappear into both ends of the lid so as to be brought into engagement with and disengagement from a circumferential edge of the opening; a knob mounted on a front side of the lid for the rotor to rotate, the knob comprising a pusher element for pushing on a bearing portion of the rotor; a return spring mounted on the rotor such that the pair of rods are rotationally biased in respective directions in which the rods are caused to protrude from both ends of the lid; and a retainer, the retainer comprising: a mounting portion which is fixed to the lid; a knob supporting portion which rotatably supports the knob; and a rotor supporting portion which rotatably supports the rotor, wherein the knob and the rotor are mounted on the retainer, wherein the rotor rotates against a biasing force of the return spring by pulling on the knob, so that the rods are withdrawn into the lid, wherein the rotor comprises a pair of extending portions which are caused to extend radially outwards from facing portions on an outer circumference thereof, wherein an arc-shaped elongated projection which is centered at a rotational center of the rotor is provided on either of contact surfaces of the extending portions and the retainer, and wherein the engagement portions with the rods are provided on an opposite side of the extending portions to a side thereof where the extending portions are brought into contact with the retainer.
a rotor rotatably supported on a rear side of the lid;
a pair of rods which are brought into engagement with engagement portions having positions which are point symmetrical relative to an axial center of the rotor at proximal end portions thereof and are supported in such a manner that distal end portions thereof appear from and disappear into both ends of the lid so as to be brought into engagement with and disengagement from a circumferential edge of the opening;
a knob mounted on a front side of the lid for the rotor to rotate, the knob comprising a pusher element for pushing on a bearing portion of the rotor;
a return spring mounted on the rotor such that the pair of rods are rotationally biased in respective directions in which the rods are caused to protrude from both ends of the lid; and
a retainer, the retainer comprising: a mounting portion which is fixed to the lid; a knob supporting portion which rotatably supports the knob; and a rotor supporting portion which rotatably supports the rotor,
a mounting portion which is fixed to the lid;
a knob supporting portion which rotatably supports the knob; and
a rotor supporting portion which rotatably supports the rotor,
wherein the knob and the rotor are mounted on the retainer,
wherein the rotor rotates against a biasing force of the return spring by pulling on the knob, so that the rods are withdrawn into the lid,
wherein the rotor comprises a pair of extending portions which are caused to extend radially outwards from facing portions on an outer circumference thereof,
wherein an arc-shaped elongated projection which is centered at a rotational center of the rotor is provided on either of contact surfaces of the extending portions and the retainer, and
wherein the engagement portions with the rods are provided on an opposite side of the extending portions to a side thereof where the extending portions are brought into contact with the retainer.
A side lock apparatus for a lid for covering and uncovering an opening of a vehicle, the apparatus comprising: a rotor rotatably supported on a rear side of the lid; a pair of rods which are brought into engagement with engagement portions having positions which are point symmetrical relative to an axial center of the rotor at proximal end portions thereof and are supported in such a manner that distal end portions thereof appear from and disappear into both ends of the lid so as to be brought into engagement with and disengagement from a circumferential edge of the opening; a knob mounted on a front side of the lid for the rotor to rotate, the knob comprising a pusher element for pushing on a bearing portion of the rotor; a return spring mounted on the rotor such that the pair of rods are rotationally biased in respective directions in which the rods are caused to protrude from both ends of the lid; and a retainer, the retainer comprising: a mounting portion which is fixed to the lid; a knob supporting portion which rotatably supports the knob; and a rotor supporting portion which rotatably supports the rotor. wherein the knob and the rotor are mounted on the retainer, wherein the rotor rotates against a biasing force of the return spring by pulling on the knob, so that the rods are withdrawn into the lid, wherein the rotor comprises a notched portion at, at least, a location on a circumferential edge portion thereof, an erectly standing wall is provided on the retainer which is situated outwards of the rotor and is caused to extend over a length which exceeds the thickness of the rotor and which comprises at a distal end thereof a claw portion adapted to be brought into engagement with a rear surface side of the rotor, whereby when the rotor is mounted on the retainer, the claw portion is made to protrude to the rear surface side of the rotor through the notched portion, and the rotor is caused to rotate in that state, so that the claw portion is brought into engagement with a circumferential edge of the rotor to thereby prevent the dislodgement of the rotor, and wherein rotation restricting means is provided between the retainer and the rotor which prevents the return of the notched portion of the rotor to the claw portion of the retainer when the rotor is mounted on the retainer and is then caused to rotate and which permits the rotation of the rods within a predetermined angular range which enables the rods to appear from and disappear into both the ends of the lid.
a retainer, the retainer comprising: a mounting portion which is fixed to the lid; a knob supporting portion which rotatably supports the knob; and a rotor supporting portion which rotatably supports the rotor.
a rotor supporting portion which rotatably supports the rotor.
wherein the rotor comprises a notched portion at, at least, a location on a circumferential edge portion thereof, an erectly standing wall is provided on the retainer which is situated outwards of the rotor and is caused to extend over a length which exceeds the thickness of the rotor and which comprises at a distal end thereof a claw portion adapted to be brought into engagement with a rear surface side of the rotor, whereby when the rotor is mounted on the retainer, the claw portion is made to protrude to the rear surface side of the rotor through the notched portion, and the rotor is caused to rotate in that state, so that the claw portion is brought into engagement with a circumferential edge of the rotor to thereby prevent the dislodgement of the rotor, and
wherein rotation restricting means is provided between the retainer and the rotor which prevents the return of the notched portion of the rotor to the claw portion of the retainer when the rotor is mounted on the retainer and is then caused to rotate and which permits the rotation of the rods within a predetermined angular range which enables the rods to appear from and disappear into both the ends of the lid.
Ref US10435921B2: Claims:
An opening and closing member locking apparatus configured to releasably lock an opening and closing member by at least one sliding rod, the opening and closing member configured to be attached to an opening portion of a mount-base member so as to be opened and closed, the locking apparatus comprising: a rotary member which is attached to one of the mount-base member and the opening and closing member so as to rotate via a supporting shaft; at least one projection which is provided on the rotary member at an eccentric position relative to the supporting shaft and which includes a diametrically-expanded head portion at a distal end of the at least one projection; the at least one sliding rod which is connected to the rotary member by fitting the at least one projection in a recess portion provided at a proximal end of the at least one sliding rod, which slides as the rotary member rotates, and which is disengageably brought into engagement with at least one engaging portion which is provided on the other one of the mount-base member and the opening and closing member, and an unlocking member which unlocks the engagement between the at least one sliding rod and the at least one engaging portion by rotating the rotary member from a state in which the at least one sliding rod is in engagement with the at least one engaging portion, wherein the recess portion of the at least one sliding rod includes: a pair of restricting walls which form inner surfaces of the recess portion facing each other in a lengthwise direction of the at least one sliding rod and which are disposed so as to restrict the head portion of the at least one projection from moving in a sliding direction; and a pair of elastic side walls which form other inner surfaces of the recess portion facing each other in a widthwise direction of the at least one sliding rod and which each includes a nail portion, the nail portions being brought into engagement with a proximal end side of the head portion of the at least one projection when the at least one projection is fitted in the recess portion, wherein the at least one sliding rod includes a first surface facing the rotary member and a second surface opposite to the first surface, wherein the recess portion includes an opening formed in a side of the first surface and a bottom wall formed on a side of the second surface, wherein the head portion of the at least one projection is inserted into the recess portion via the opening so as to fit the at least one projection in the recess portion, wherein the bottom wall is in the form of an elastic bottom wall which is brought into an elastic abutment with a distal end of the head portion of the at least one projection when the at least one projection is inserted into the recess portion, and wherein an outside surface of the bottom wall is disposed at a position closer to the first surface than to the second surface.
a rotary member which is attached to one of the mount-base member and the opening and closing member so as to rotate via a supporting shaft;
at least one projection which is provided on the rotary member at an eccentric position relative to the supporting shaft and which includes a diametrically-expanded head portion at a distal end of the at least one projection;
the at least one sliding rod which is connected to the rotary member by fitting the at least one projection in a recess portion provided at a proximal end of the at least one sliding rod, which slides as the rotary member rotates, and which is disengageably brought into engagement with at least one engaging portion which is provided on the other one of the mount-base member and the opening and closing member, and
an unlocking member which unlocks the engagement between the at least one sliding rod and the at least one engaging portion by rotating the rotary member from a state in which the at least one sliding rod is in engagement with the at least one engaging portion,
wherein the recess portion of the at least one sliding rod includes: a pair of restricting walls which form inner surfaces of the recess portion facing each other in a lengthwise direction of the at least one sliding rod and which are disposed so as to restrict the head portion of the at least one projection from moving in a sliding direction; and a pair of elastic side walls which form other inner surfaces of the recess portion facing each other in a widthwise direction of the at least one sliding rod and which each includes a nail portion, the nail portions being brought into engagement with a proximal end side of the head portion of the at least one projection when the at least one projection is fitted in the recess portion,
a pair of restricting walls which form inner surfaces of the recess portion facing each other in a lengthwise direction of the at least one sliding rod and which are disposed so as to restrict the head portion of the at least one projection from moving in a sliding direction; and
a pair of elastic side walls which form other inner surfaces of the recess portion facing each other in a widthwise direction of the at least one sliding rod and which each includes a nail portion, the nail portions being brought into engagement with a proximal end side of the head portion of the at least one projection when the at least one projection is fitted in the recess portion,
wherein the at least one sliding rod includes a first surface facing the rotary member and a second surface opposite to the first surface,
wherein the recess portion includes an opening formed in a side of the first surface and a bottom wall formed on a side of the second surface,
wherein the head portion of the at least one projection is inserted into the recess portion via the opening so as to fit the at least one projection in the recess portion,
wherein the bottom wall is in the form of an elastic bottom wall which is brought into an elastic abutment with a distal end of the head portion of the at least one projection when the at least one projection is inserted into the recess portion, and
wherein an outside surface of the bottom wall is disposed at a position closer to the 
[Truncated to input limit]