Special outdoor game that combines corn hole, bocce ball, and horseshoes as a beach game

Abstract

A special outdoor game that combines corn hole, bocce ball, and horseshoes as a beach game. The components include a pair of a target cups with a depth or may be substituted with rings for hard surfaces; two sets of balls or equal spherical, toss-able object, each of the set consists of four different color/design balls; and a pair of target stakes preferably round or tubular. The target stakes are used as a primary target for the game with the target cups permitting a player to score more points; a carrying bag or container; a measurement flag or equal; and a card explaining scoring and rules. The game can be played on a turf field, tennis court, sand field, sand beach, backyard, or parking lot. When played on a hard, firm surface, the target rings may be substituted for the target cups.

Claims

1. A special outdoor game (30) that combines corn hole, bocce ball, and horseshoes as a beach game that is made of a resilient and durable material and is comprised: (a) a pair of a target receiver cups (31) with a depth, height; (b) two sets of golf balls (35), each set being a different color or marked design and each set consisting of four (4) balls; (c) a pair of target stakes (40) preferably a round stake or tube with a length and diameter used as a primary target for the outdoor beach game (30); (d) a carrying bag or container (45); (e) an identification and measurement flag (51) with an aperture (51A) or equal; and (f) a rules card (55) with a front and a back side explaining scoring and rules wherein the special outdoor game (30) can be played on a play area (75) with the target receiver cups (31).

2. The special outdoor game (30) described in claim 1 and further comprised of an alternative measuring device.

3. The special outdoor game (30) described in claim 2 wherein the alternative measuring device is selected from the group consisting of a flexible metal tape, a fabric tape, marked and flexible cord, a ruler, a folding ruler, a measuring laser, an electronic tape, a metric stick, and a yardstick

4. The special outdoor game (30) described in claim 1 wherein the play area (75) is selected from the group consisting of a turf field, a tennis court, a sand field, a sand beach, a backyard, and a parking lot.

5. The special outdoor game (30) described in claim 1 wherein the target stakes (40) are selected from the group consisting of a round stake and a tube.

6. The special outdoor game (30) described in claim 6 wherein the durable materials are selected from the group consisting of metals, plastics, and composite materials.

7. The special outdoor game (30) described in claim 6 wherein the metals are selected from the group consisting of alloy steel, a stainless steel, an aluminum, or a brass.

8. The special outdoor game (30) described in claim 7 wherein the alloy steel is treated by the group consisting of chroming, galvanizing, powder coating and painting.

9. The special outdoor game (30) described in claim 6 wherein the plastics are selected from the group consisting of urethane, nylon, reinforced nylon, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), silicone, Pebax Elastomers (RTM), and thermoplastic elastomers (TPE).

10. A special outdoor game that combines corn hole, bocce ball, and horseshoes as a beach game that is made of a resilient and durable material and is comprised: (a) a pair of a target receivers (32); (b) two sets of tossing objects where each set is a different color or marked design and each set consisting of four objects; (c) a pair of target stakes (40) preferably a round stake or tube with a length and diameter used as a primary target for the outdoor beach game (30); (d) a carrying bag or container (45); (e) a measurement flag (51) with an aperture (51A) or equal; and (f) a rules card (55 with sides explaining scoring and rules wherein the special outdoor game (30) can be played on a play area (75) with the receivers (32).

11. The special outdoor game (30) described in claim 10 wherein the receivers (32) are selected from the group consisting of a cup (31) and a ring (31A).

12. The special outdoor game (30) described in claim 10 and further comprised of an alternative measuring device.

13. The special outdoor game (30) described in claim 10 wherein the tossing objects are selected from the group consisting of golf balls, hard rubber balls, slotted “whiffle” balls, beanbags, large glass marbles and metal bearings.

14. The special outdoor game (30) described in claim 10 and further comprised of a set of four flat bases (42) for placing on the two measuring sticks (50) and the two target stakes (40) when the measuring sticks (50 and target stakes (50) are placed on a firm surfaces of a playing area (75).

15. The special outdoor game (30) described in claim 14 wherein the alternative measuring device is selected from the group consisting of a flexible metal tape, a fabric tape, marked and flexible cord, a ruler, a folding ruler, a measuring laser, an electronic tape, a metric stick, and a yardstick

16. The special outdoor game (30) described in claim 10 wherein the play area (75) is selected from the group consisting of a turf field, a tennis court, a sand field, a sand beach, a backyard, and a parking lot.

17. The special outdoor game (30) described in claim 10 wherein the durable materials are selected from the group consisting of metals, plastics, and composite materials.

18. The special outdoor game (30) described in claim 17 wherein the metals are selected from the group consisting of an alloy steel, a stainless steel, an aluminum, and a brass.

19. The special outdoor game (30) described in claim 18 wherein the alloy steel is treated by the group consisting of chroming, galvanizing, powder coating and painting.

20. The special outdoor game (30) described in claim 17 wherein the plastics are selected from the group consisting of urethane, nylon, reinforced nylon, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), silicone, Pebax Elastomers (RTM), and thermoplastic elastomers (TPE).

Description

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS—FIGURES

[0034] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate an embodiment of a special outdoor game that combines corn hole, bocce ball, and horseshoes as a beach game that is preferred. The drawings together with the summary description given above and a detailed description given below explain the principles of the A special outdoor game that combines corn hole, bocce ball, and horseshoes as a beach game. It is understood, however, that the Special Beach Game is not limited to only the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown.

[0035] FIGS. 1A through 1 D are sketches of a special outdoor game that combines corn hole, bocce ball, and horseshoes as a beach game and drawings of the operating and playing the game.

[0036] FIGS. 2A and 2 B are sketches of the special outdoor beach game with components and features noted.

[0037] FIG. 3 is a sketch of the special outdoor beach game with components and features noted and shown from generally a top view.

[0038] FIGS. 4A through 4 G are even more sketches of the components and features for the special outdoor beach game.

[0039] FIG. 5A through 5 E are further sketches of the special outdoor beach game with components and features noted.

[0040] FIGS. 6A and 6 B are sketches of the rules and scoring for the special outdoor game that combines corn hole, bocce ball, and horseshoes as a beach game.

[0041] FIGS. 7A and 7 B are charts describing the game, rules and scoring for the sketches of the special outdoor beach game.

[0042] FIG. 8A through 8 C are sketches of the game layout and installation on the beach for the special outdoor beach game.

[0043] FIG. 9A through 9 C are sketches of the special outdoor beach game being played.

[0044] FIG. 10A through 10 G are further sketches of the special outdoor beach game being played.

[0045] FIG. 11 A through 11 D are sketches of prior art devices for beach and tossing games.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS—REFERENCE NUMERALS

[0046] The following list refers to the drawings:

TABLE-US-00002 TABLE B Reference numbers Ref # Description 30 a special outdoor game 30 that combines corn hole, bocce ball, and horseshoes as a beach game called “BALLZ DEEP” 31 target cup 31 with a depth, height, and diameter as a receiver 32   31A target rings 31A as a receiver 32 with a given diameter laid on flat surfaces of firm surfaces such as a parking lot or rocky beaches where the cup target 31 cannot be used as a receiver 32 35 golf balls 35 or equal spherical, toss able object - 2 sets, each a different color or marked design and each set consisting of four (4) balls   35A alternative tossing objects 35A such as hard rubber, slotted “whiffle” balls, beanbags, large glass marbles or metal bearings 40 target stake 40 preferably a round stake or tube with a length and diameter used as a primary target for the outdoor beach game 30 42 Flat base 42 for placing on the measuring sticks 50 and target stakes 40 when the stake 50 and target stakes 50 are placed on firm surfaces of a playing area 75 45 carrying bag or container 45 46 cord and closing mechanism 46 for bag 45 47 label 47 for bag 46 50 measuring stick 50 with a length and optional measurement markings for determining distance from ball 35 to target stake 40 (may be round or square or the like in cross-section and with end tips to retain flag 51 51 measurement flag 51 with an aperture 51A for firmly holding the measuring stick 50 52 alternative measuring device 52 for determining distance from ball 35 to target stake 40 55 rules card 55 with sides explaining scoring and rules 56 rules side 56 showing recommended rules that can be modified by players for specific needs 57 scoring side 57 showing recommended scoring that can be modified by players for specific needs 58 description 58 of the outdoor beach tossing game 30 60 beach/top of sand 60 70 layout 70 of the beach 75 for the playing of the A special outdoor game 30 that combines corn hole, bocce ball, and horseshoes as a beach game 71 side view 71 of the layout 70 72 relation side view 72 of the cup 31 and stake 40 75 Playing area 75 for the special outdoor game 30 special such as a turf field, a tennis court, a sand field, a sand beach, a backyard, a parking lot, etc. 80 scoring position 80 with golf balls 35 close to the target stake 40 and recessed cup 31 81 tossing, throwing position 81 with golf balls 35 being launched by the player 100 toward a target stake 40 and recessed cup 31 100  player, contestant 100 300  prior Art 300 US Patent App. 2004/0108652 by Vaden - 2004 - called a Tossing Game 301  prior Art 301 US Patent App. 2004/0166965 by Hiatt - 2004 - called a Pitch and Putt Lawn Golf 302  prior Art 302 US Patent App. 2013/0017897 by Tsiopanas et al - 2013 - called a Beach Golf Handball 303  prior Art 303 US Patent App. 2014/0106908 by Johnson et al - 2014 - called a Ball Tossing Game and Methods of Play

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0047] The present development is a special outdoor game that combines corn hole, bocce ball, and horseshoes as a beach game. This relates to outdoor games especially for beach recreation. Further it relates to games and methods of playing the games, as well as kits for playing such games, and more particularly to ball toss games played on a beach or playing field. More particularly, this invention relates to a recreational beach game and to a beach golf game using cups, stakes, and golf balls. The special outdoor game that combines corn hole, bocce ball, and horseshoes as a beach game relates generally to outdoor games requiring the accurate and skillful throwing or tossing of objects. More particularly, the invention relates to a tossing game in which two separate target stakes, and two separate target receptacles are buried in the ground at some distance apart, with their upper rims flush with the surface. With the kit and method for playing, players attempt to toss objects into the targets, with points awarded to players according to the accuracy of their pitches. This relates to a kit and method for playing a tossing for accuracy game (measures accuracy into a target cup or near the target stake with points awarded) for use in connection with recreation.

[0048] The advantages for the special outdoor game that combines corn hole, bocce ball, and horseshoes as a beach game are listed above in the introduction. Succinctly the benefits are that the device: [0049] A. Is lightweight. [0050] B. Is portable. [0051] C. Is compact and easily packed into most luggage, taking up very little space. Making it perfect for airline travel. [0052] D. Cleans up easy. Just rinse and go, leave the sand at the beach. [0053] E. Is environmentally friendly. The game is placed back into the bag or container, and nothing is left at the play area except fond memories. [0054] F. Is fun for most ages. [0055] G. Has simple rules and is easy to learn. [0056] H. Is an improved outdoor recreational activity. [0057] I. Is an improved target game of tossing objects such as golf balls. And [0058] J. Measures accuracy into a target cup or near the target stake with points awarded.

[0059] The preferred embodiment of the special outdoor game that combines corn hole, bocce ball, and horseshoes as a beach game is comprised of: (a) a pair of a target cups 31 with a depth, height and diameter; (b) two sets of golf balls 35 or equal spherical, toss able object—2 sets, each a different color or marked design and each set consisting of four (4) balls; (c) a pair of target stakes 40 preferably a round stake or tube with a length and dimeter used as a primary target for the outdoor beach game 30; (d) a carrying bag or container 45; (e) a measurement flag 51 with an aperture 51A or equal; and (f) a rules card 55 with sides explaining scoring and rules. Note rules and scoring show recommendations that can be modified by players for specific desires or needs.

[0060] There is shown in FIGS. 1-11 a complete description and operative embodiment of the special outdoor game that combines corn hole, bocce ball, and horseshoes as a beach game. In the drawings and illustrations, one notes well that the FIGS. 1-11 demonstrate the general configuration and use of this product. The various example uses are in the operation and use section, below.

[0061] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate an embodiment of a special outdoor game that combines corn hole, bocce ball, and horseshoes as a beach game that is preferred. The drawings together with the summary description given above and a detailed description given below serve to explain the principles of the special outdoor game that combines corn hole, bocce ball, and horseshoes as a beach game. It is understood, however, that the Special Beach Game is not limited to only the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown. Other examples of tossing games and sporting play are still understood by one skilled in the art of informal games of tossing objects for sport and recreation to be within the scope and spirit shown here.

[0062] FIGS. 1A through 1 D are sketches of a special outdoor game 30 that combines corn hole, bocce ball, and horseshoes as a beach game and drawings of the operating and playing the game. Shown in this overview of the drawings are: a special outdoor game 30 that combines corn hole, bocce ball, and horseshoes as a beach game; a target cup 31 as a receiver 32 with a depth, height and diameter; a layout 70 of the beach 75 for the playing of the special outdoor game 30 that combines corn hole, bocce ball, and horseshoes as a beach game; a scoring position 80 with golf balls 35 close to the target stake 40 and recessed cup 31; and a tossing, throwing position 81 with golf balls 35 being launched by the player 100 toward a target stake 40 and recessed cup 31.

[0063] FIGS. 2A and 2 B are sketches of the special outdoor beach game with components and features noted. Demonstrated here in the figures of the outdoor beach game 30 are: a special outdoor game 30 that combines corn hole, bocce ball, and horseshoes as a beach game; a target cup 31 as a receiver 32 with a depth, height and diameter; sets of golf balls 35 or equal spherical, toss able object—2 sets, each a different color or marked design and each set consisting of four (4) balls; a target stake 40 preferably a round stake or tube with a length and diameter used as a primary target for the outdoor beach game 30; a carrying bag or container 45; a label 47 for bag 46; a measuring stick 50 with a length and optional measurement markings for determining distance from ball 35 to target stake 40 (may be round or square or the like in cross-section and with end tips to retain the slidable flag 51; and a measurement flag 51 with an aperture 51A for firmly yet slidably holding the measuring stick 50.

[0064] FIG. 3 is a sketch of the special outdoor beach game 30 with components and features noted and shown from generally a top view. Details provided here include: a special outdoor game 30 that combines corn hole, bocce ball, and horseshoes as a beach game called “BALLZ DEEP”; a target cup 31 as a receiver 32 with a depth, height and diameter; sets of golf balls 35 or equal spherical, toss able object—2 sets, each a different color or marked design and each set consisting of four (4) balls; a target stake 40 preferably a round stake or tube with a length and diameter used as a primary target for the outdoor beach game 30; a carrying bag or container 45; a measuring stick 50 with a length and optional measurement markings for determining distance from ball 35 to target stake 40 (may be round or square or the like in cross-section and with end tips to retain flag 51; a measurement flag 51 with an aperture 51A for firmly, but movably holding the measuring stick 50; an alternative measuring device 52 for determining distance from ball 35 to target stake 40 (such as a flexible metal or fabric tape, marked and flexible cord, ruler, folding ruler, measuring laser, electronic tape, metric stick, yardstick or the like); and a rules card 55 with sides explaining scoring and rules. Note show recommended rules and scoring that can be modified by players for specific desires or needs. Durable materials are anticipated for the cups, stakes, and rings such as: metals like alloy steel (processed by chroming, galvanizing, powder coating, or painting), or aluminum, or brass; plastics like urethane, nylon, reinforced nylon, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), silicone, Pebax Elastomers (RTM), thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), and other durable plastics, and composite materials.

[0065] FIGS. 4A through 4 G are even more sketches some of the parts of the special outdoor beach game with components and features noted. Shown here are: a target cup 31 as a receiver 32 with a depth, height and diameter; target rings 31A as a receiver 32 with a given diameter laid on flat surfaces of firm surfaces such as a parking lot or rocky beaches where the cup target 31 cannot be used; sets of golf balls 35 as tossing objects or equal spherical, toss able object—2 sets, each a different color or marked design and each set consisting of four (4) balls; alternative tossing objects 35A such as such as hard rubber, slotted “whiffle” balls, beanbags, large glass marbles or metal bearings; a target stake 40 preferably a round stake or tube with a length and diameter used as a primary target for the outdoor beach game 30; a set of four flat bases 42 for placing on the two measuring sticks 50 and the two target stakes 40 when the stake 50 and target stakes 50 are placed on firm surfaces of a playing area 75; and a measuring stick 50 with a length and optional measurement markings for determining distance from ball 35 to target stake 40 (may be round or square or the like in cross-section and with end tips to retain flag 51.

[0066] FIG. 5A through 5 E are further sketches of the special outdoor beach game with components and features noted. Demonstrated are: a special outdoor game 30 that combines corn hole, bocce ball, and horseshoes as a beach game; a carrying bag or container 45; a cord and closing mechanism 46 for bag 45; an alternative measuring device 52 for determining distance from ball 35 to target stake 40; a rules card 55 with sides explaining scoring and rules; a rules side 56; and a scoring side 57. Note card shows recommendations that can be modified by players for specific desires or needs.

[0067] FIGS. 6A and 6 B are sketches of the rules and scoring for the special outdoor game that combines corn hole, bocce ball, and horseshoes as a beach game. FIGS. 7A and 7 B are charts describing the game, rules and scoring for the sketches of the special outdoor beach game. FIG. 8A through 8 C are sketches of the game layout and installation on the beach for the special outdoor beach game. FIG. 9A through 9 C are sketches of the special outdoor beach game being played. FIG. 10A through 10 G are further sketches of the special outdoor beach game being played. These are all described below in the Operations Section.

[0068] FIG. 11 A through 11 D are sketches of prior art devices for beach and tossing games. Here former patents and applications for beach games, tossing games and the like. These include: prior Art 300 US Patent App. 2004/0108652 by Vaden—2004—called a Tossing Game; prior Art 301 US Patent App. 2004/0166965 by Hiatt—2004—called a Pitch and Putt Lawn Golf; prior Art 302 US Patent App. 2013/0017897 by Tsiopanas et al—2013—called a Beach Golf Handball; and prior Art 303 US Patent App. 2014/0106908 by Johnson et al—2014—called a Ball Tossing Game and Methods of Play. As can be seen, the special outdoor game that combines corn hole, bocce ball, and horseshoes as a beach game is a unique combination and use as described herein.

[0069] The details mentioned here are exemplary and not limiting. Other specific components and manners specific to describing a special outdoor game that combines corn hole, bocce ball, and horseshoes as a beach game 30 may be added as a person having ordinary skill in the field of the art of beach and recreational tossing games and sport well appreciates.

Operation of the Preferred Embodiment

[0070] The special outdoor game 30 that combines corn hole, bocce ball, and horseshoes as a beach game has been described in the above embodiment. The manner of how the device operates is described below. One notes well that the description above and the operation described here must be taken together to fully illustrate the concept of the Special Beach Game described herein. The preferred embodiment of the special outdoor game that combines corn hole, bocce ball, and horseshoes as a beach game is comprised of: A special outdoor game that combines corn hole, bocce ball, and horseshoes as a beach game is comprised of: (a) a pair of a target cups 31 with a depth, height and diameter; (b) two sets of golf balls 35 or equal spherical, toss able object—2 sets, each a different color or marked design and each set consisting of four (4) balls; (c) a pair of target stakes 40 preferably a round stake or tube with a length and diameter used as a primary target for the outdoor beach game 30; (d) a carrying bag or container 45; (e) a measurement flag 51 with an aperture 51A or equal; and (f) a rules card 55 with sides explaining scoring and rules. Note card showing recommended rules and scoring that can be modified by players for specific desires or needs.

[0071] FIGS. 6A and 6 B are sketches of the rules and scoring for the special outdoor game that combines corn hole, bocce ball, and horseshoes as a beach game. Note: these are showing recommended rules and scoring that can be modified somewhat by players for specific desires and needs —terrain, wind, ages of players, etc.

[0072] Rules—FIGS. 6A and 7 B (below): [0073] 1. Balls must be thrown from behind the stake. [0074] 2. Each player alternates throwing one of their balls. [0075] 3. The team or person that scored the most points during the previous round throws first. The first throw of the game can be settled by a coin toss, rock paper scissors, beer chug, or whatever (but since it is a gentlemen's game, ladies always first). [0076] 4. If scoring a ball that is in the cup for closest to the stake, measure to the front of the cup closest to the stake.

[0077] Scoring FIGS. 6 B and 7 B (below): [0078] 1. Balls that hit the stake get 2 points. Balls may be knocked back into the stake by another ball for additional points. [0079] 2. Balls that go into the cup score 3 points. Balls may be knocked into the cup by another ball. [0080] 3. The ball closest to the stake scores 1 point, then each ball closer to the stake than the opponent's closest ball also scores 1 point. [0081] 4. Scores cancel out each other in a single round of throwing. Example, white team gets two balls closer to the stake but the blue team gets one ball in the cup; the blue team scores 1 point that round. [0082] 5. A ball may be knocked into the stake multiple time in a round; scoring 2 points each time it strikes the stake. [0083] 6. A ball that goes in the cup is still in play for closest to the stake (measures to the front of the cup, closest to the stake).

[0084] FIGS. 7A and 7 B are charts describing the game, rules and scoring for the sketches of the special outdoor beach game. Described here are:

[0085] Beach Game and Layout—FIG. 7A [0086] A. Beach game played with two stakes, two cups and eight golf balls (4 of one color and 4 of a different color). [0087] B. Lay court out on the beach, the harder the sand is packed the better. Can be played on soft sand, but the balls will not roll as much. [0088] C. Two stakes (¾″ PVC pipe cut 20″ long are placed in the sand approximately 12 paces apart, with at least half of the stake out of the sand. [0089] D. A cup (5″ long made of 4″ thin wall PVC) is placed directly into the sand 1 foot length behind each stake. The cup is pushed into the sand, so that the top of the cup is flush with the sand. [0090] E. The object of the game is to throw one's golf ball to the stake at the opposite end, trying to get it closest to the stake or into the cup. [0091] F. A cord or string can be used to aid in measuring the distance from the stake and help in scoring. [0092] G. Game can be played 1 on 1 or 2 player teams.

[0093] Rules—FIG. 7 B:—see previous paragraph above.

[0094] Scoring FIG. 7 B: —see previous paragraph above.

[0095] FIG. 8A through 8 C are sketches of the game layout and installation on the beach for the special outdoor beach game. Shown again is the layout diagram of the Beach Game. See the relationship of the target stakes 40 and the recessed target cup 31. Beach game played with two target stakes 40, two cups 31 and eight golf balls 35 (4 of one color and 4 of a different color). Lay court out on the beach, the harder the sand 60 is packed the better. Can be played on soft sand, but the balls 35 will not roll as much. Two target stakes 40 (¾″ PVC pipe cut 20″ long are placed in the sand 60 approximately 12 paces apart, with at least half of the stake out of the sand 60. A cup 31 (5″ long made of 4″ thin wall PVC) is placed directly into the sand 60-1 foot length behind each target stake 40. The cup 31 is pushed into the sand 60, so that the top of the cup 31 is flush with the sand 60. The object of the game is to throw the golf ball 35 to the stake at the opposite end, trying to get it closest to the target stake 40 or into the cup 31. A cord or string, measurement stake 51 or alternative device 52 can be used to aid in measuring the distance from the stake 40 and help in scoring. Game can be played 1 on 1 or 2 player teams.

[0096] FIG. 9A through 9 C are sketches of the special outdoor beach game being played. Provided here are the sketches of the described game being played. And FIG. 10A through 10 G are further sketches of the special outdoor beach game being played. Note the special outdoor game 30 that combines corn hole, bocce ball, and horseshoes as a beach game [0097] already placed in the sand 60 and beach 75; a target cup 31 with a depth, height, and diameter; golf balls 35 in various positions from the target stake 40; a target stake 40 preferably a round stake or tube with a length and diameter used as a primary target for the outdoor beach game 30; and a player, contestant 100.

[0098] Many different playing areas 75 or surfaces are anticipated for the special outdoor game 30 that combines corn hole, bocce ball, and horseshoes as a beach game called “Balls Deep”. Some examples, and not limitations, are shown in the following Table.

TABLE-US-00003 ITEM DESCRIPTION OF PLAYING AREA 1 turf field 2 tennis court 3 sand field 4 sand beach 5 backyard 6 parking lot

[0099] With this description it is to be understood that the special outdoor game that combines corn hole, bocce ball, and horseshoes as a beach game is not to be limited to only the disclosed embodiment of product. The features and rules of the Special Beach Game 30 are intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the description.

[0100] While certain novel features of this invention have been shown and described and are pointed out in the annexed claims, it is not intended to be limited to the details above, since it will be understood that various omissions, modifications, substitutions and changes in the forms and details of the device illustrated and in its operation can be made by those skilled in the art without departing in any way from the spirit of the present invention. Without further analysis, the foregoing will so fully reveal the gist of the present invention that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily adapt it for various applications without omitting features that, from the standpoint of prior art, fairly constitute essential characteristics of the generic or specific aspects of this invention.

[0101] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which these inventions belong. Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can also be used in the practice or testing of the present inventions, the preferred methods and materials are now described above in the foregoing paragraphs.

[0102] Other embodiments of the invention are possible. Although the description above contains much specificity, these should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention, but as merely providing illustrations of some of the presently preferred embodiments of this invention. It is also contemplated that various combinations or sub-combinations of the specific features and aspects of the embodiments may be made and still fall within the scope of the inventions. It should be understood that various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with or substituted for one another in order to form varying modes of the disclosed inventions. Thus, it is intended that the scope of at least some of the present inventions herein disclosed should not be limited by the particular disclosed embodiments described above.

[0103] The terms recited in the claims should be given their ordinary and customary meaning as determined by reference to relevant entries (e.g., definition of “plane” as a carpenter's tool would not be relevant to the use of the term “plane” when used to refer to an airplane, etc.) in dictionaries (e.g., widely used general reference dictionaries and/or relevant technical dictionaries), commonly understood meanings by those in the art, etc., with the understanding that the broadest meaning imparted by any one or combination of these sources should be given to the claim terms (e.g., two or more relevant dictionary entries should be combined to provide the broadest meaning of the combination of entries, etc.) subject only to the following exceptions: (a) if a term is used herein in a manner more expansive than its ordinary and customary meaning, the term should be given its ordinary and customary meaning plus the additional expansive meaning, or (b) if a term has been explicitly defined to have a different meaning by reciting the term followed by the phrase “as used herein shall mean” or similar language (e.g., “herein this term means,” “as defined herein,” “for the purposes of this disclosure [the term] shall mean,” etc.). References to specific examples, use of “i.e.,” use of the word “invention,” etc., are not meant to invoke exception (b) or otherwise restrict the scope of the recited claim terms. Other than situations where exception (b) applies, nothing contained herein should be considered a disclaimer or disavowal of claim scope. Accordingly, the subject matter recited in the claims is not coextensive with and should not be interpreted to be coextensive with any particular embodiment, feature, or combination of features shown herein. This is true even if only a single embodiment of the particular feature or combination of features is illustrated and described herein. Thus, the appended claims should be read to be given their broadest interpretation in view of the prior art and the ordinary meaning of the claim terms.

[0104] Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers or expressions, such as those expressing dimensions, physical characteristics, etc. used in the specification (other than the claims) are understood as modified in all instances by the term “approximately.” At the very least, and not as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the claims, each numerical parameter recited in the specification or claims which is modified by the term “approximately” should at least be construed in light of the number of recited significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques.

[0105] The present invention contemplates modifications as would occur to those skilled in the art. While the disclosure has been illustrated and described in detail in the figures and the foregoing description, the same is to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character, it being understood that only selected embodiments have been shown and described and that all changes, modifications and equivalents that come within the spirit of the disclosures described heretofore and or/defined by the following claims are desired to be protected.