MULTI-POSITION CHAIR

Abstract

Disclosed are example embodiments of a chair including a seat and a backrest configured as a single unit. The chair further includes a frame supporting the seat and backrest. The chair also includes a front pivot mechanism positioned below a knee area of a seated user, the front pivot mechanism enabling the seat and backrest to transition between an upright position and a reclined position. Additionally, the chair includes a pair of armrests coupled to the seat and backrest, the armrests maintaining a substantially flat orientation throughout the transition between the upright position and the reclined position. The chair further includes a lift mechanism coupled to the frame and the seat and backrest, the lift mechanism configured to adjust a vertical position of the seat and backrest relative to the frame.

Claims

1. A chair comprising: a seat and a backrest configured as a single unit; a frame supporting the seat and backrest; a front pivot mechanism positioned below a knee area of a seated user, the front pivot mechanism enabling the seat and backrest to transition between an upright position and a reclined position; a pair of armrests coupled to the seat and backrest, the armrests maintaining a substantially flat orientation throughout the transition between the upright position and the reclined position; and a lift mechanism coupled to the frame and the seat and backrest, the lift mechanism configured to adjust a vertical position of the seat and backrest relative to the frame.

2. The chair of claim 1, wherein the lift mechanism comprises a manual lift and lock mechanism configured to secure the seat and backrest at a selected height.

3. The chair of claim 1, wherein the lift mechanism comprises a gas spring configured to adjust the height of the seat and backrest based on a user's weight displacement.

4. The chair of claim 1, wherein the lift mechanism comprises an electrically powered screw drive configured to adjust the height of the seat and backrest while the user is seated.

5. The chair of claim 1, wherein the front pivot mechanism allows a reclining range of approximately 0 degrees to between 35 and 40 degrees.

6. The chair of claim 1, further comprising a five-star base with casters, the five-star base providing mobility to the chair.

7. The chair of claim 1, wherein the armrests are connected to the seat and backrest via a linkage system configured to maintain the flat orientation of the armrests throughout the transition between the upright position and the reclined position.

8. The chair of claim 1, wherein the frame is configured to provide stability during the transition between the upright position and the reclined position.

9. The chair of claim 1, wherein the lift mechanism enables height adjustments of the front pivot mechanism to accommodate different user heights and table heights.

10. The chair of claim 1, wherein the chair transitions between the upright position and the reclined position through a single pivot axis.

11. The chair of claim 1, wherein the armrests are detachably mounted to allow removal or reconfiguration.

12. The chair of claim 1, wherein the lift mechanism includes a locking feature that prevents unintentional movement during use.

13. The chair of claim 1, wherein the frame includes a base structure with reinforced support beams to enhance stability.

14. The chair of claim 1, wherein the seat and backrest include a cushioning layer for added comfort.

15. The chair of claim 1, wherein the seat and backrest are covered with a material selected from fabric, leather, or synthetic upholstery.

16. The chair of claim 1, wherein the pivot mechanism includes a damping element configured to control the transition speed between the upright and reclined positions.

17. The chair of claim 1, wherein the armrests include integrated storage compartments.

18. The chair of claim 4, wherein the electrically powered screw drive is operable via a user-controlled interface mounted on the armrest.

19. The chair of claim 1, further comprising a headrest that moves in coordination with the reclined position of the backrest.

20. The chair of claim 1, further comprising a footrest extendable from the base of the chair to support a user's legs in the reclined position.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description, is better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and form part of the specification, illustrate a plurality of embodiments and, together with the description, further serve to explain the principles involved and to enable a person skilled in the relevant art(s) to make and use the disclosed technologies.

[0010] FIG. 1 illustrates the chair in an upright position, showing the seat and backrest in a vertical alignment along with the front pivot mechanism, armrests, frame, and lift mechanism.

[0011] FIG. 2 illustrates the chair in a reclined position, depicting the seat and backrest rotated backward around the front pivot mechanism while maintaining a flat orientation of the armrests.

[0012] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the dine and recline chair, showcasing the overall structure and integration of key components enabling the transition between seating positions.

[0013] FIG. 4 illustrates a variation of the chair featuring a five-star base with wheels, demonstrating enhanced mobility while maintaining the core pivoting and reclining functionalities.

[0014] FIG. 5 illustrates another variation of the chair with wheels, showing an alternative mobility configuration with a stable base and reclining mechanism.

[0015] FIGS. 6A-6C illustrate examples of vertical and tilt travel of an example chair.

[0016] FIG. 7 illustrates an example pivot point located beneath an armrest of an example chair.

[0017] FIGS. 8A-8B illustrate an example view of the support structure of an example chair, showing an example lifting mechanism.

[0018] FIG. 9 illustrates an example bracket or frame member that connects the front pivot to the high-low gas cylinder in the base.

[0019] The figures and the following description describe certain embodiments by way of illustration only. One skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles described herein. Reference will now be made in detail to several embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying figures. It is noted that wherever practicable similar or like reference numbers may be used in the figures to indicate similar or like functionality.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] The detailed description set forth below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of configurations and is not intended to represent the only configurations in which the concepts described herein may be practiced. The detailed description includes specific details for the purpose of providing a thorough understanding of various concepts. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that these concepts may be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, well-known structures and components are shown in block diagram form in order to avoid obscuring such concepts.

[0021] Several aspects of example systems will now be presented with reference to various apparatus and methods. These apparatus and methods will be described in the following detailed description and illustrated in the accompanying drawings by various blocks, components, circuits, processes, algorithms, etc. (collectively referred to as elements). These elements may be implemented using various components, hardware, electronic hardware, computer software, or any combination thereof. Whether such elements are implemented as hardware or software depends upon the particular application and design constraints imposed on the overall system.

[0022] In an example embodiment, the present invention provides a seating apparatus that offers two distinct seating configurations within a single chair. The chair transitions between an upright position, suitable for dining or desk use, and a reclined position for relaxation. The innovative structure allows the user to seamlessly adjust between these two seating arrangements while maintaining consistent support and comfort.

Chair Structure and Operation

[0023] FIG. 1 illustrates an example chair 100 in an upright position 102, illustrating a seat 104 and a backrest 106 in a vertical alignment along with the front pivot mechanism, armrests, frame, and lift mechanism. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the seating apparatus comprises the seat 104 and the backrest 106, armrests 108, a supporting frame 110, a front pivot mechanism 112, and a lift mechanism 114. The seat 104 and backrest 106 may be configured as a single unit that rotates around a front pivot axis (e.g., at the front pivot mechanism 112) positioned approximately below the knee joint of a seated individual.

[0024] FIG. 2 illustrates chair 100 in a reclined position 116, depicting the seat 104 and backrest 106 rotated backward around the front pivot mechanism 112 while maintaining a flat orientation of the armrests 108. As demonstrated in FIG. 2, the pivoting motion may facilitate a smooth transition from an upright position 102 to a reclined position 116. The frame 110 may provide stability while supporting the reclining motion.

[0025] One distinguishing feature of some example embodiments may be the armrest 108 design. The armrests 108 may be coupled to the seat 104 and backrest 106 assembly via specifically placed pivots and levers, ensuring they remain relatively flat throughout the transition between seating positions. This configuration may allow users to keep objects such as drinks, electronic devices, and reading materials on the armrests during movement without risk of tipping or sliding. The integration of this armrest stabilization system enhances the chair's functionality and usability. (The armrest 108 may include one or more beverage holders, wherein the beverage holders may be configured to maintain their orientation during use, e.g., during movement from the upright position 102 to the reclined position 116.)

Pivot and Recline Mechanism

[0026] As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, chair 100 may incorporate a horizontal pivot mechanism 112 located beneath the knee area (of a person seated in the chair) at the front portion of the seat 104. This pivot (front pivot mechanism 112) may be the primary support for the seat 104 and backrest 106 assembly, which may allow a full range of motion from approximately 0 degrees (upright) to approximately 35 to 40 degrees (reclined) or even further reclined. As well as reclined positions between approximately 0 degrees and 40 degrees (or more). The single-pivot axis design may help ensure a streamlined transition between positions while maintaining ergonomic support for the user. In an example embodiment, front pivot mechanism 112 may be a single pivot mechanism approximately running the length of the front of the seat 104. In other example embodiments, front pivot mechanism 112 may be a pair of pivot mechanisms generally to the left and right side generally at the front of the seat 104. In yet another example embodiments, front pivot mechanism 112 may be a three or more pivot mechanisms. For example, when three pivots are used the pivots may generally be to the left, right, and center and generally at the front of the scat 104.

[0027] Additionally, the pivot mechanism 112 may include a vertical adjustment feature, enabling the front edge or entire seat assembly to be raised or lowered. This adjustability accommodates users of varying heights and facilitates ergonomic positioning at different tables or desks. The adaptability of the chair to different user heights ensures optimal support and comfort across a range of settings.

Lift and Lock Mechanism

[0028] The chair incorporates a lift and lock mechanism (lift mechanism 114) beneath the seat 104 to control the movement and positioning of the seat 104 and backrest 106. Several configurations of lift mechanism 114 are possible:

[0029] Manual Lift and Lock: The user lifts the seat and backrest assembly to the desired position, which locks into place. The mechanism may help ensure stability and ease of adjustment.

[0030] Gas Spring or Spring-Assisted Lift: A gas spring or mechanical spring assists in lowering the seat and backrest assembly. When the user exits the chair, the spring mechanism raises the seat to a default or adjustable position.

[0031] Electrically Powered Screw Drive: An electrically operated screw drive system may enable controlled lifting and lowering of the seat and backrest while the user remains seated. This mechanism may allow for effortless adjustments and precise positioning, with integrated stop and lock functionality for intermediate positions. The lift mechanism 114 may work in conjunction with the pivot mechanism 112 to enable a smooth transition between upright and reclined positions while maintaining the user's chosen height setting.

[0032] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the dine and recline chair, showcasing the overall structure and integration of key components enabling the transition between seating positions. The figure provides a comprehensive visualization of its structure and integration of these components. The figure provides a comprehensive visualization of its structure and integration of these components. As depicted in FIG. 3, chair 100 includes seat 104, backrest 106, armrests 108, supporting frame 110, front pivot mechanism 112, and lift mechanism 114. The armrests 108 are designed to remain stable throughout the reclining motion, ensuring a consistent user experience. The front pivot mechanism 112 is positioned beneath the knee area to facilitate smooth movement between the upright and reclined positions. The supporting frame 110 provides structural stability while accommodating the forces exerted during transition. Additionally, lift mechanism 114 is integrated beneath seat 104 to enable height adjustments and controlled reclining. This perspective view highlights how these components interact to create an ergonomic and functional seating experience.

Five-Star Base With Casters

[0033] FIG. 4 illustrates a variation of the chair 400 featuring a five-star base 402 with wheels 404, demonstrating enhanced mobility while maintaining the core pivoting and reclining functionalities described with respect to FIGS. 1-3. FIG. 5 illustrates another variation of the chair 500 with wheels 504, showing an alternative mobility configuration with a stable base and reclining mechanism.

[0034] A variation of the chair, as depicted in FIGS. 4 and 5, includes a five-star base 402, 502 with wheels 404, 504. This modification may enhance mobility, potentially making the chair well-suited for workspaces, home offices, and other environments where repositioning is necessary. While the seat 406, 506 and backrest 408, 508, front pivot mechanism 410, 510, and armrests (optional, not shown) may remain functionally consistent with the original design, the five-star base 402 may introduce added flexibility for users requiring movement between workstations or seating areas. The lift mechanism may remain functionally consistent with the original design in some embodiments. Alternatively, lift mechanism 412, 512 may generally maintain the same functionality, but may use different structures to provide that functionality. For example, lift mechanism 412, 512 may provide an up/down motion for the chair 400, 500. Chair 400, 500 also includes back tilt mechanism 414, 514 and may, in some embodiments, provide 6 inches of travel. FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 may, in some embodiments, use a 3 inch gas cylinder for lifting the chair (lift mechanism 412, 512). FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 may also use a gas cylinder (back tilt mechanism 414, 514) or, in other embodiments, electric cylinder for tilt.

[0035] This mobile version retains the same dual-position reclining function but allows for greater case of transport and repositioning. The five-star base 402 configuration may help ensure stability even when transitioning between positions, and some variations may include locking casters to secure the chair in place when stationary.

Ergonomic and Functional Benefits

[0036] The ability to alternate between an upright and reclined seating position makes this chair particularly advantageous in settings where space or cost constraints exist. The dual-functionality eliminates the need for separate dining and lounge chairs, reducing the required furniture footprint. Furthermore, the adaptability of the chair to different user heights and workspaces improves ergonomic comfort and usability.

[0037] The flat armrests contribute to user convenience by allowing items to remain undisturbed during transitions. The integration of various lifting and locking mechanisms ensures accessibility for a wide range of users, including those with mobility limitations. The incorporation of a mobile five-star base further enhances its versatility, making it suitable for both stationary and dynamic environments.

[0038] In an example embodiment, the present invention provides a seating apparatus with multiple adjustable components to offer both ergonomic support and versatile functionality. The following describes each noun in the claims, providing various examples of how these elements may be implemented.

Seat and Backrest

[0039] The seat and backrest are configured as a single unit, meaning they move together as the chair transitions between different positions. The seat and backrest may be constructed from materials such as molded plastic, wood, composite materials, or metal, with cushioning layers made from foam, gel-infused padding, or memory foam for enhanced comfort. The covering material may include leather, synthetic leather, fabric, mesh, or antimicrobial coatings for improved hygiene and durability.

[0040] The backrest may be contoured to provide lumbar support, with optional adjustable components such as a tilting headrest or lumbar reinforcement. In some embodiments, the seat and backrest may include integrated heating or cooling elements for temperature regulation.

Frame

[0041] The frame serves as the primary structural support for the chair. It may be constructed from metal alloys (e.g., aluminum, steel, or titanium), reinforced plastic, or composite materials. The frame may feature a collapsible design for compact storage and transportation. In some implementations, the frame may include a reinforced base structure with additional crossbeams or support bars to enhance durability and weight distribution.

[0042] The frame may also incorporate mounting points for add-ons such as cup holders, storage compartments, or electronic device holders. It may be finished with powder coating, anodization, or chrome plating for increased resistance to corrosion and wear.

Front Pivot Mechanism

[0043] The front pivot mechanism enables the seat and backrest to transition between an upright position and a reclined position. This pivot mechanism may include a hinge, rotating joint, or a combination of mechanical linkages that provide smooth movement. In some embodiments, the pivot mechanism may feature a damping element to control the transition speed, preventing sudden or abrupt movement.

[0044] The pivot mechanism may be adjustable, allowing the reclining range to be customized for different users. Example pivot mechanisms include ball-and-socket joints, linear rails with pivot arms, or scissor-lift arrangements.

Armrests

[0045] The armrests are attached to the seat and backrest, ensuring they maintain a flat orientation throughout the transition between seating positions. The armrests may be constructed from materials such as molded plastic, wood, aluminum, or padded upholstery. Some embodiments may include detachable or adjustable armrests to accommodate different user preferences.

[0046] Additional functionalities for the armrests may include:

[0047] Integrated storage compartments for holding small items such as remote controls, books, or mobile devices.

[0048] Built-in charging ports to power electronic devices such as smartphones or tablets.

[0049] Removable configurations to allow users to customize their seating experience.

Lift Mechanism

[0050] The lift mechanism is responsible for adjusting the vertical position of the seat and backrest relative to the frame. Several types of lift mechanisms may be used:

[0051] Manual Lift and Lock Mechanism: Users can manually adjust the height by lifting the seat to a desired position, where it locks into place.

[0052] Gas Spring Mechanism: A pressurized gas cylinder automatically adjusts the height based on user weight displacement.

[0053] Electrically Powered Screw Drive: A motorized system allows users to adjust the chair height while remaining seated, controlled via buttons, a remote, or an integrated touchscreen.

[0054] To enhance safety, the lift mechanism may include a locking feature to prevent unintentional movement. The system may also allow micro-adjustments for fine-tuned positioning.

Five-Star Base With Casters

[0055] In some embodiments, the chair includes a five-star base with casters, providing mobility across different surfaces. The casters may be made from rubber, polyurethane, or metal, and may include a locking mechanism to secure the chair in place. The five-star base may be constructed from aluminum, steel, or reinforced plastic for strength and stability.

Additional Features

[0056] The chair may include various enhancements to improve usability and user experience:

[0057] Headrest: Adjustable or detachable, capable of moving in coordination with the reclined position.

[0058] Footrest: Extendable from the base to support the user's legs in a reclined position.

[0059] Vibration Massage Unit: Integrated into the backrest and seat for therapeutic benefits.

[0060] Sensor System: Detects user position and automatically adjusts the recline angle accordingly.

[0061] Antimicrobial Coating: Applied to upholstery for hygiene maintenance.

[0062] Breathable Mesh Structure: Integrated into the backrest to improve airflow.

[0063] The present invention provides a highly adaptable and ergonomic seating apparatus designed for both comfort and functionality. Through the integration of a pivot mechanism, lift system, and optional features, the chair accommodates a wide range of users and environments. The various materials, mechanisms, and design configurations described herein illustrate the versatility of the chair in multiple settings, from office workspaces to home recliners. By offering a balance of adjustability, durability, and convenience, this chair represents an innovative approach to multi-position seating solutions.

[0064] The present invention provides a novel seating apparatus that seamlessly transitions between an upright and reclined position while maintaining ergonomic support and stability. The innovative combination of a single front pivot (2), vertically adjustable seat and backrest (1), lift and lock mechanism (4), and optional mobile five-star base sets this chair apart from conventional seating solutions. By offering a versatile and space-saving seating option, the invention enhances both comfort and practicality in modern living and work environments. The various embodiments depicted in FIGS. 1-5 demonstrate how the chair can be adapted for different settings while preserving its core functionality.

[0065] FIGS. 6A-6C illustrate examples of tilt travel of an example chair 600. In some embodiments, the chair 600 may incorporate pivot points 602, 604, 606, 608. There are four pivots. One near the backrest 602, one under the arm 604, one on top of the frame 606, and one is where the entire seat/back pivots from 608. The action of the seat tilting against the arm which is fixed to the stationary frame member forces the arm to raise and lower. Additionally, a tilt lift mechanism 610 may provide an adjustable range of approximately 4 inches when utilizing a screw drive or gas cylinder. These figures demonstrate how the chair transitions between different positions, accommodating user preference and ergonomic support. The tilting lift mechanism 610 may enable smooth, controlled motion, ensuring stability throughout the range of movement.

[0066] FIG. 7 illustrates an example pivot point 702 located beneath an armrest 704 of an example chair 700. The chair 700 may include an auto armrest functionality that may be dependent on four pivot points, which allow the armrest 704 to move in coordination with the tilting of the seat 706 and backrest 708. The positioning of these pivot points helps ensure proper function. Deviation from the intended arrangement may affect the synchronized movement of the armrest relative to the seat and back.

[0067] FIG. 7 further highlights a no-pinch design, where a gap beneath the armrest surface is maintained when the chair is in full tilt to prevent potential pinch points. Considerable effort has been made to optimize this aspect of the design for enhanced user safety and comfort. The illustration also demonstrates how the pivot system integrates into the overall structure, allowing the armrest to support a natural and intuitive range of motion without obstructing the tilting mechanism. FIG. 7 illustrates no pinch detail and the no pinch gap under the arm when the chair is in total tilt mood.

[0068] FIGS. 8A-8B illustrate an example view of the support structure 802 of an example chair 800, showing an example lifting mechanism 804, 806. In some embodiments, the chair may incorporate either an electronic drive unit (lifting mechanism 804) or a gas cylinder (lifting mechanism 806) to facilitate vertical and tilt adjustments. The tilt positioning may be infinitely adjustable, meaning the tilt can be stopped at any position within some angular limits, and the locking mechanism of either the electronic or gas-powered actuator may hold the seating portion of the chair in place. The design may allow for interchangeability between the electric and gas-based configurations, enabling flexibility in manufacturing and assembly. The lifting mechanism 804, 806 illustrated in these figures demonstrates how the front pivot connects to the high-low gas cylinder within the base, providing support for height adjustments and tilt control.

[0069] FIG. 9 illustrates an example bracket or frame member 900 that connects the front pivot to the high-low gas cylinder in the base. Additionally, this bracket or frame member 900 may serve as a structural connection point for the rear gas cylinder or electric screw drive, which is responsible for controlling the tilt mechanism. This figure demonstrates the integration of these structural and functional elements within the chair's adjustment system.

[0070] One or more elements or aspects or steps, or any portion(s) thereof, from one or more of any of the systems and methods described herein may be combined with one or more elements or aspects or steps, or any portion(s) thereof, from one or more of any of the other systems and methods described herein and combinations thereof, to form one or more additional implementations and/or claims of the present disclosure.

[0071] One or more of the components, steps, features, and/or functions illustrated in the figures may be rearranged and/or combined into a single component, block, feature or function or embodied in several components, steps, or functions. Additional elements, components, steps, and/or functions may also be added without departing from the disclosure. The apparatus, devices, and/or components illustrated in the Figures may be configured to perform one or more of the methods, features, or steps described in the Figures. The algorithms described herein may also be efficiently implemented in software and/or embedded in hardware.

[0072] Reference in the specification to one embodiment or an embodiment means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the invention. The appearances of the phrase in one embodiment in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.

[0073] Some portions of the detailed description are presented in terms of algorithms and symbolic representations of operations on data bits within a computer memory. These algorithmic descriptions and representations are the methods used by those skilled in the data processing arts to most effectively convey the substance of their work to others skilled in the art. An algorithm is here, and generally, conceived to be a self-consistent sequence of steps leading to a desired result. The steps are those requiring physical manipulations of physical quantities. Usually, though not necessarily, these quantities take the form of electrical or magnetic signals capable of being stored, transferred, combined, compared or otherwise manipulated. It has proven convenient at times, principally for reasons of common usage, to refer to these signals as bits, values, elements, symbols, characters, terms, numbers or the like.

[0074] It should be borne in mind, however, that all of these and similar terms are to be associated with the appropriate physical quantities and are merely convenient labels applied to these quantities. Unless specifically stated otherwise as apparent from the following disclosure, it is appreciated that throughout the disclosure terms such as processing, computing, calculating, determining, displaying or the like, refer to the action and processes of a computer system, or similar electronic computing device, that manipulates and transforms data represented as physical (electronic) quantities within the computer system's registers and memories into other data similarly represented as physical quantities within the computer system's memories or registers or other such information storage, transmission or display.

[0075] Finally, the algorithms and displays presented herein are not inherently related to any particular computer or other apparatus. Various general-purpose systems may be used with programs in accordance with the teachings herein, or it may prove convenient to construct more specialized apparatus to perform the required method steps. The required structure for a variety of these systems will appear from the description below. It will be appreciated that a variety of programming languages may be used to implement the teachings of the invention as described herein.

[0076] The figures and the following description describe certain embodiments by way of illustration only. One skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles described herein. Reference will now be made in detail to several embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying figures. It is noted that wherever practicable similar or like reference numbers may be used in the figures to indicate similar or like functionality.

[0077] The foregoing description of the embodiments of the present invention has been presented for the purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present invention to the precise form disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. It is intended that the scope of the present invention be limited not by this detailed description, but rather by the claims of this application. As will be understood by those familiar with the art, the present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics thereof. Likewise, the particular naming and division of the modules, routines, features, attributes, methodologies and other aspects are not mandatory or significant, and the mechanisms that implement the present invention or its features may have different names, divisions and/or formats.

[0078] Furthermore, as will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the relevant art, the modules, routines, features, attributes, methodologies and other aspects of the present invention can be implemented as software, hardware, firmware or any combination of the three. Also, wherever a component, an example of which is a module, of the present invention is implemented as software, the component can be implemented as a standalone program, as part of a larger program, as a plurality of separate programs, as a statically or dynamically linked library, as a kernel loadable module, as a device driver, and/or in every and any other way known now or in the future to those of ordinary skill in the art of computer programming.

[0079] Additionally, the present invention is in no way limited to implementation in any specific programming language, or for any specific operating system or environment. Accordingly, the disclosure of the present invention is intended to be illustrative, but not limiting, of the scope of the present invention, which is set forth in the following claims.

[0080] It is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of blocks in the processes/flowcharts disclosed is an illustration of example approaches. Based upon design preferences, it is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of blocks in the processes/flowcharts may be rearranged. Further, some blocks may be combined or omitted. The accompanying method claims present elements of the various blocks in a sample order and are not meant to be limited to the specific order or hierarchy presented.

[0081] The previous description is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the various aspects described herein. Various modifications to these aspects will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other aspects. Thus, the claims are not intended to be limited to the aspects shown herein, but is to be accorded the full scope consistent with the language claims, wherein reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean one and only one unless specifically so stated, but rather one or more. The word exemplary is used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. Any aspect described herein as exemplary is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects. Unless specifically stated otherwise, the term some refers to one or more. Combinations such as at least one of A, B, or C, one or more of A, B, or C, at least one of A, B, and C, one or more of A, B, and C, and A, B, C, or any combination thereof include any combination of A, B, and/or C, and may include multiples of A, multiples of B, or multiples of C. Specifically, combinations such as at least one of A, B, or C, one or more of A, B, or C, at least one of A, B, and C, one or more of A, B, and C, and A, B, C, or any combination thereof may be A only, B only, C only, A and B, A and C, B and C, or A and B and C, where any such combinations may contain one or more member or members of A, B, or C. All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the various aspects described throughout this disclosure that are known or later come to be known to those of ordinary skill in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be encompassed by the claims. Moreover, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether such disclosure is explicitly recited in the claims. The words module, mechanism, element, device, and the like may not be a substitute for the word means. As such, no claim element is to be construed as a means plus function unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase means for.