Leg Garment

Abstract

Garments have features that provide support and tension for selected muscles. The garments can promote muscle strengthening and training during activity or play. They utilize several strongly elastic portions disposed in a particular pattern to encourage tension or support for selected muscles. Straps are attachable to the garment to further control forces applied to the wearer. The size, shape, position, quantity, and material composition of the strongly elastic portions and the attachable straps are selected to achieve desired tensive properties.

Claims

1. A garment comprising: a base layer extending down from a waist past a knee portion, the base layer having a waistband portion, left and right hip portions, and left and right leg portions that include left and right thigh portions, wherein: the left and right thigh portion are each reinforced in a selected pattern to provide reinforced portions configured to increase resistance to stretching; a first pair of sagitally mirrored anchor points, positioned on the left and right hip portions; a second pair of sagitally mirrored anchor points, positioned on the left and right thigh portions; a first support element, where a first end of the first support element is attached to the left hip portion and a second end extends to a left thigh portion, such that a path of the first support element extends from the left hip portion, around a back portion of the left leg to the left thigh portion; and a second support element, where a first end of the second support element is attached to the right hip portion and a second end extends to a right thigh portion, such that a path of the second support element extends from the right hip portion, around a back of the right leg, to the right thigh portion.

2. The garment of claim 1 wherein section of the reinforced portions surrounds the knee portion.

3. The garment of claim 2 wherein the reinforced portions include fingers of reinforced material extend inward towards the knee portion of the base layer.

4. The garment of claim 2 wherein the reinforced portions are patterned such that fingers of reinforced material extend outward from the knee portion.

5. The garment of claim 1 wherein the garment further includes a waistband portion, and wherein the paths of the first and second support elements spans from respective portions on a back section of the waistband portion.

6. The garment of claim 1 wherein first and second support elements extend from respective locations adjacent an inner thigh portion.

7. The garment of claim 1 wherein the first and second support elements are formed of alternating sections of elastic and inelastic material.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] The various embodiments for these garments can be better appreciated by referring to the enclosed drawings.

[0012] FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C are a front, rear, and side split view of a first garment.

[0013] FIGS. 2A, 2B and 2C are a front, rear, and side split view of a second garment.

[0014] FIGS. 3A, 3B and 3C are a front, rear, and side view of a third garment.

[0015] FIGS. 4A, 4B and 4C are a front, rear, and side view of a fourth garment.

[0016] FIGS. 5A. 5B and 5C are a front, rear, and side split view of a fifth garment.

[0017] FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C and 6D are a front, rear, side and side split view of a sixth garment.

[0018] FIG. 7 is a detailed view of a strap.

[0019] FIG. 8 is a detailed view of another strap.

[0020] FIG. 9 is a detailed view of yet another type of strap.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0021] Implementations of garments will now be described in detail with reference to the enclosed drawings. It should be understood that these drawings function as illustrative examples, and are not meant to limit the scope of this patent application to any single implementation or implementations. Therefore, it is understood that other implementations are possible by way of interchange, substitution, or combination with some or all of the elements described or illustrated.

[0022] The garments described herein can provide one or more of the following benefits: [0023] Reduced muscle fatigue [0024] Strain prevention [0025] A lower risk of muscle soreness [0026] Improved perceived exertion [0027] Better muscle oxygenation [0028] Comfort [0029] Improved strength recovery [0030] Better recovery after strenuous exercise [0031] Support for mobility and alignment [0032] Brace like supports around ligaments (knees, meniscus, MCL, ACL) [0033] Increase outputs and strength training thru resistance [0034] Functional movement support by allowing for purposes and precision with tensioning, and [0035] Pain management.

[0036] By choosing the elasticity of the garment in certain areas, one can impact muscle activation and movement, as well as change the loads on muscles, joints and tendons. By integrating adjustable cables and straps into the garment, one can further impact muscle activation and movement as well to change the loads on muscles, joints and tendons. Furthermore, by externally applying adjustable or nonadjustable straps and cables as well as rigid structures, one can better achieve maximum support.

[0037] An example garment is shown in FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C. FIG. 1A is a front view of the garment, FIG. 1B is of the back of the garment, and FIG. 1C is a split view of the left leg (with the outside portion of the leg shown above the line, and the inside portion of the leg below the line). The image in FIG. 1B is a detailed view of the waistband portion.

[0038] The garment shown in FIGS. 1A-1C is a product called Challenger. This version is designed to be worn by women. As will be explained in detail below, the garment has a particular arrangement of reinforced portions and adjustable tensioning straps to support the skeletal muscles of the lower extremities. The muscles supported by this garment may include the abductors, rectus femoris and tensor fascia latae. This garment also provides resistance to other muscles such as the vastus medialis, rectus femoris, sartorius, tensor fascia latae, gluteus medius, gluteus maximus and biceps femoris.

[0039] More particularly, the garment of FIGS. 1A-1C includes a base layer 101 (shown unshaded) that extends down from a waistband portion 102 to a thigh portion 103 and then further down to a calf portion 104. The calf portion 104 may extend, if desired, further down to or near a wearer's ankles, or, alternatively, to below the ankle and around the foot.

[0040] The base layer 101 may be weakly elastic such that the base layer weakly resists stretching under tensile forces. Preferred materials for the base layer include spandex or other weakly elastic materials. The base layer generally has thigh portions, knee portions, and calf portions.

[0041] Parts of the base layer are reinforced or bonded to have an increased resistance to stretching. The reinforced portions 105 (shown with various types of shading) may be of a stronger elastic than the base layer 101. The reinforced portions 105 may be formed from two or more materials that are bonded together. The reinforced portions 105 should resist stretching under tensile forces. Preferred materials for the reinforced portions 105 include nylon, or other strongly elastic materials, or materials with no elastic properties but which can contain low or moderate or high flexural modulus.

[0042] These reinforced portions 105 may be disposed within or on the base layer 101 through sewing or adhesives, as well as through other common physical or chemical means known in the art. Alternatively, the reinforced portions 105 are formed by gluing or bonding a polyurethane film or silicone or some other suitable material onto the base layer 101 to create strongly elastic or inelastic areas. These bonded reinforced portions may be thinner than non-reinforced portions of the base layer.

[0043] The waistband portion 102 is positioned on or near the hips. The waistband portion 102 may fully encircle the waistline of the leg garment or alternatively, may be split into two waistband portions positioned laterally on the hips.

[0044] In the example garment of FIGS. 1A-1C, the reinforced portions 105 (shown with the cross-hatched shading) extend down from a waist portion with a defined shape. In this example, each reinforced portion follows an S or serpentine-shape that becomes progressively thinner as it travels down the thigh and approaches the knee.

[0045] A first pair of sagitally mirrored anchor points 106 are positioned on or sewn to the waistband portion 102. A second pair of sagitally mirrored anchor points 108 are positioned on the thigh portions above or near the knee. The anchor points 106, 108 may be reinforced as compared to the base layer 101.

[0046] The anchor points provide a location to attach a support element 107. There are two support elements 107, one for each of the left and right side. In this example, each support element 107 consists of a tensioning strap 110 (shown in black) enclosed within a sleeve 111 (shown in white). The illustrated straps 110 are formed from a particular arrangement of elastic and inelastic materials as more fully explained below. However other types of straps and other types of support elements are possible.

[0047] An upper end of each support element 110 is attached or sewn to an anchor point 106 on the waistband. A lower end of each support element attaches near a corresponding one of the anchor points 108 on the thigh. Each support element 110 follows a path that starts near or at the side of the waist, wraps around the back of the leg, and then to the anchor point on the thigh. The upper end of the support element 110 may be sewn to the waistband such as through an eyelet.

[0048] The distance between the ends of each support element is adjustable. This can be provided by attaching the lower end of the support element to an adjustable tensioning mechanism 115. Examples of tensioning mechanisms 115 that can adjust the force applied by the support element are described in the patent application referenced above (which is hereby incorporated by reference).

[0049] Another fabric portion, called a bayonet panel 116, is preferably formed as a single piece of material that extends from inside one leg around the crotch area to the inside of the other leg. The bayonet panel 116 may also be formed of a bonded fabric that further evenly spreads tension in this area.

[0050] The waist 102 may enclose a belt 122 which itself may also include an adjustable tensioning mechanism 124.

[0051] FIGS. 2A-2C illustrate a men's version of the Challenger product. ChallengerSimilar to the women's version of FIGS. 1A-1C, this garment has anchor points and reinforced/bonded portions 105 to control and provide resistance to the same muscles mentioned above. The reinforced/bonded portion 105 extends down from the waist portion 202 but has a different shape than the women's version. Rather than a continuous S shape, the reinforced/bonded portion in this garment branches as it runs down the leg, with a first branch 215 extending from the front and then around the back of the thigh and a second branch 216 extending straight down the front of the thigh.

[0052] As with the other garments, this garment has a first pair of sagitally mirrored anchor points 206 are positioned on or sewn to a waistband portion 202. A second pair of sagitally mirrored anchor points 208 are positioned on the thigh portions above or near the knee. The anchor points 206,208 may be reinforced as compared to the base layer 201.

[0053] This garment also has a pair of adjustable straps 207, with each strap including a tensioner 215 located at the end on the thigh. The straps 207 consist of a sleeve 211 into which fits an inner portion 210. The inner portion 210 has a particular arrangement of elastic and inelastic materials as more fully explained below.

[0054] Note that the buckle 220 of the men's version may be of a different design than the buckle 122 used for the women's version.

[0055] A women's version of another garment design called Stabilizer is shown in FIGS. 3A-3C. This garment has some features in common with the Challenger but is intended to control a different set of muscles and therefore has different uses. For example, the Challenger garments primarily support and add to workouts. This Stabilizer garment of FIGS. 3A-3C primarily supports and subtracts building proper body function over time.

[0056] The Stabilizer is configured to support muscles such as the vastus medialis and the patella along with selected abductors. The Stabilizer also provides engagement and/or resistance to other muscles such as the tibialis anterior, peroneus longus, gastrocnemius, rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, satorious, gluteus medius and gluteus maximus.

[0057] The women's Stabilizer consists of a base layer 301 that extends downward from a waistband portion 302 to a thigh portion 303 and further down to a calf portion 304. The calf portion may extend, if desired, further down to or near a wearer's ankles, or, alternatively, to below the ankle and around the foot.

[0058] The base layer may be weakly elastic such that the base layer weakly resists stretching under tensile forces. Preferred materials for the base layer include spandex or other weakly elastic materials. The base layer generally has thigh portions, knee portions, and calf portions.

[0059] Reinforced portions 305 of the base layer 301 provide an increased resistance to stretching in selected areas. The reinforced portions 305 (shown with shading) may be of a stronger elastic than the base layer 301. The reinforced portions 305 may be formed from two or more materials that are bonded together. The reinforced portions should resist stretching under tensile forces.

[0060] Preferred materials for the reinforced portions 305 include nylon, or other strongly elastic materials, or materials with no elastic properties but which can contain low or moderate or high flexural modulus.

[0061] A section of reinforced/bonded material 305 extends above, below, and around the front of the knees. This reinforced portion 305 provides support and increased stability to the patella and underlying ligaments (such as the ACL, MCL, meniscus, etc.).

[0062] In the example shown in FIGS. 3A-3C, the reinforced portions 305 may be formed from a material which is a woven, non-stretch, film. The hypoallergenic latex-free adhesive layer ensures excellent adhesion to materials that are used to protect the skin and/or that mimic the skin's elasticity. It possesses high adhesion and tensile properties, and the stiffness of the material has a stabilizing effect both mechanically and at a proprioceptive level. However, it should be noted that other types of materials may be used for reinforcement.

[0063] These reinforced portions 305 may be disposed within or on the base layer 301 through sewing or adhesives, as well as through other common physical or chemical means known in the art. Alternatively, the reinforced portions 305 are formed by gluing or bonding a polyurethane film or silicone or some other suitable material onto the base layer to create strongly elastic or inelastic areas. These bonded reinforced portions may be thinner than non-reinforced portions of the base layer.

[0064] In the example women's Stabilizer garment of FIGS. 3A-3C, the reinforced portions 305 extend above, below, and around the front of the knees 310. This provides support and increased stability to the patella and underlying ligaments (such as the ACL, MCL, meniscus, etc.). Note that sections of the reinforced portions may include fingers 316 that extend inward towards the knee.

[0065] A reinforcement panel or gusset 308 may be provided inside the thigh and down at least a portion of the leg, again similar to the other garments described herein.

[0066] A first pair of sagitally mirrored anchor points 312 are positioned or sewn to the back of the waistband portion 302. A second pair of sagittally mirrored anchor points 316 are positioned on the inner thigh portions above or near the knee. A lower pair of anchor points 314 are on the lower end below the knee. The anchor points 312, 314, 316 may be reinforced as compared to the base layer 301.

[0067] The anchor points 312, 314, 316 provide a location to attach a support element 307. There are two support elements 307, one for each of the left and right side. In this example, each support element 307 consists of an adjustable tensioning strap 320 (shown in black) enclosed within a sleeve 321 (shown in white). The illustrated straps 320 are formed from a particular arrangement of elastic and inelastic materials and attached or sewn to the garment as described below.

[0068] The garment of FIGS. 3A-3C has a total of four support elements 307 (or two tensioning straps, each strap having two sections). A tensioning strap section 307 on the top of each leg attaches to the back of the waistband and wraps around to an attachment point on the front of the thigh. A second tensioning strap on the lower portion of each leg attaches from the thigh to the calf, wrapping around the lower portion of the leg.

[0069] Note that tension on each of the upper and lower straps 307 can be adjusted independently of each other.

[0070] The straps 307 on each leg wrap in opposite directions. That is, the upper strap on the right leg wraps counter-clockwise and the lower strap on the right leg wraps clockwise, and the upper strap on the left leg wraps clockwise and the lower strap on the left leg wraps counter-clockwise.

[0071] A portion of the waistband 302 can be formed of bonded film to provide further abductor support.

[0072] FIGS. 4A-4C is an example of the Stabilizer design adapted for men having analogous components including at least a base layer 401, reinforced portions 305 surrounding the knee 410 and adjustable straps 407 connected to anchor points 412, 414, 416. The straps 407 and bonded/reinforced portions 405 are provided in the same manner as the women's Stabilizer. The waistband 402 here can be a drawstring.

[0073] FIGS. 5A-5D are another example of a women's Stabilizer garment. As for the other Stabilizer garments described above, this garment has a particular arrangement of reinforced portions 506 and adjustable tensioning straps 507 to support the skeletal muscles of the lower extremities. These may include support for the vastus medialis and the patella along with selected abductors, and/or provide engagement and/or resistance to other muscles such as the tibialis anterior, peroneus longus, gastrocnemius, rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, satorious, gluteus medius and gluteus maximus.

[0074] The Stabilizer garment shown in FIGS. 5A-5D includes a base layer 501 (shown unshaded) that extends down from a waistband portion 502 to a thigh portion 503 and then further down to a calf portion 504. The calf portion 504 may extend, if desired, further down to or near a wearer's ankles, or, alternatively, to below the ankle and around the foot.

[0075] The base layer 501 may be weakly elastic such that the base layer weakly resists stretching under tensile forces. Preferred materials for the base layer include spandex or other weakly elastic materials. The base layer generally has thigh portions, knee portions, and calf portions.

[0076] Parts of the base layer are reinforced or bonded 505 to have an increased resistance to stretching. The reinforced portions 505 (shown with various types of shading) may be of a stronger elastic than the base layer 501. The reinforced portions 505 may be formed from two or more materials that are bonded together. The reinforced portions 505 should resist stretching under tensile forces.

[0077] Preferred materials for the reinforced portions 505 include nylon, or other strongly elastic materials, or materials with no elastic properties but which can contain low or moderate or high flexural modulus.

[0078] In the example shown in FIGS. 5A-5D, the reinforced portions 505 may be formed from a material known as Beta Dream Tape which is a woven, non-stretch, white cotton fabric. The hypoallergenic latex-free adhesive layer ensures excellent adhesion to materials that are used to protect the skin and/or that mimic the skin's elasticity. It possesses high adhesion and tensile properties and the stiffness of the material has a stabilizing effect both mechanically and at a proprioceptive level.

[0079] These reinforced portions 505 may be disposed within or on the base layer 501 through sewing or adhesives, as well as through other common physical or chemical means known in the art. Alternatively, the reinforced portions 501 are formed by gluing or bonding a polyurethane film or silicone or some other suitable material onto the base layer 501 to create strongly elastic or inelastic areas. These bonded reinforced portions may be thinner than non-reinforced portions of the base layer 501.

[0080] In the example women's Stabilizer garment of FIGS. 5A-5D, the reinforced portions 505 (shown with the cross-hatched shading) extend down from a waist portion with a defined shape as shown. In this example, each reinforced portion includes a framis portion 506 which is a section of reinforced/bonded material that extends above, below, and around the front of the knees. This framis 506 provides support and increased stability to the patella and underlying ligaments (such as the ACL, MCL, meniscus, etc.) similar to the Stabilizer garments of FIGS. 3A-3C described above.

[0081] Note that sections of the reinforced portions 505 in this garment may include fingers 510 that extend towards and away from the knee. Here the framis also includes various tab portions 515 that extend upward from each side of the knee and towards the back of the leg. The framis also includes tail portions 516 that extends from the outside of the knee, and around the calf to the back of the lower leg.

[0082] A first pair of sagitally mirrored anchor points 512 are positioned or sewn to the waistband portion. A second pair of sagittally mirrored anchor points 517 are positioned on the inner thigh portions above or near the knee. The anchor points 512, 517 may be reinforced as compared to the base layer. The anchor points provide a location to attach support elements 507. There are two support elements 507, one for each of the left and right side. In this example, each support element consists of an adjustable tensioning strap 510 enclosed within a sleeve 511 (shown in white). The illustrated adjustable straps 510 are formed from a particular arrangement of elastic and inelastic materials and attached or sewn to the garment. The adjustable tensioning straps 510 are more fully explained below.

[0083] A reinforcement panel or gusset 508 may be provided inside the thigh and down at least a portion of the leg, again similar to the Stabilizer garments already described.

[0084] A back portion of the waist 502 and gusset 508 may be formed of a contrasting material to the main body portion 501.

[0085] FIGS. 6A-6D illustrate another men's Stabilizer product that consists of a base layer 601, waistband portion 602, reinforced portions 605, framis (bonded portion) 606, adjustable straps 607 and gusset 608 arranged similarly to the women's Stabilizer product of FIGS. 5A-5D. The men's Stabilizer product has anchor points 612, 614 that work with reinforced/bonded portions 605, 606 to control and provide resistance to selected muscles.

[0086] FIG. 7 has more detail of an example strap for the women's Challenger product. As shown the strap may consist of a bonded edge portion 702, elastic portion 703, inelastic portion 704, elastic portion 705, and slipstream guide 706. Bonded edge portion 702 may consist of the base layer material bonded to elastic material section 703.

[0087] An adjustment mechanism 720 such as one or more lace(s) 721 and adjustable tensioner 722 attach to the guide 706, and may be used to assist with providing tension to the belt.

[0088] Lace(s) 721 and/or adjustable tensioner 722 may connect the lower end of the strap to an anchor point on the garment.

[0089] FIG. 8 is a more detailed view of an example strap 800 for the Challenger product. Similar to the strap of FIG. 7, this strap 800 consists of alternating sections of bonded fabric 802, elastic section 803, inelastic portion 804, elastic portion 805, bonded edge 806 and slipstream guide 809. The bonded end 802 on the far left that is sewn into the waistband may be squared off. The other end 806 that couples to the tensioning mechanism may have a rounded edge. This end 806 may be heat sealed. The slipstream guide 809 (which engages the adjustment mechanism) is attached to this end such as via single needle lock stitch.

[0090] FIG. 9 is an example strap configured for use with the Stabilizer of FIGS. 3A-3C and 4A-4C. As with the other straps, these straps consist of alternating sections of elastic 902, 904, 906, 908 and inelastic 903, 907 material. The men's and women's straps are similar. Note the reinforced portion 905 in the center where the two straps meet. Slipstream guides 910, 920 attached to edge portions 910, 909 are provided on each end of strap 900. Stitch call outs 930 are shown and may be formed by zig zag or lock stitching.

[0091] The garments described herein provide a number of advantages over other lower body garments. They are designed to guide the wearer to proper muscular and/or musculoskeletal alignment by counteracting typical movement that can cause back, hip and knee pain. The strapping system pulls the pelvis into a posterior tilt, specifically a slight posterior pelvic tilt, which can serve as the foundation for a strong and active core as well as a protective position for the lower back. By counteracting the resting curvature on the lumbar spine, the garment also takes pressure off of the bones and loads the weight into the muscles as mentioned above as well the sacrum, thoracolumba fascia, adductor magnus, and/or sacroiliac joint (SI band). The core acts as shock absorption and support so that the spine and discs are protected through movement. This is especially important in uneven and lateral movement as well as jumping, leaping and turning.

[0092] The strap system is also fused directly with tension films to help activate the quad muscles to engage the supportive tissues around the knees.

[0093] These films are specifically placed to maximize comfort while providing a light frame to persuade the body into proper alignment from hips to heels. The straping system creates offloading from tension and muscle engagement paired with muscular-skeletal support. However if the wearer only has general aches and pains from previous injuries, the Stabilizer garment in particular may assist with providing support. These garments are also of assistance to a constantly active person that is just looking to build muscles/body, or a little more performance, or support in their joints.

[0094] Wearing the products can also encourage improvements in function, form and mobility, as well as stability during rehab.

[0095] Along with their physical benefits the tension films can also act as a warning track or rumble strips that help the wearer stay in proper form. Tension of the films can be used to constantly remind the wearer and guide them back into proper form. This can help increase balance and stability and reduce injury from an even deeper level of mind body connection.

[0096] The films are designed to allow increase in movement and mobility of all areas. The wearer is also free to engage in normal activities without bulky or restrictive bracing. They are also minimally invasive, leaving no marks or annoying adhesives on the skin.

[0097] The straps are independent from each other so that side to side imbalances can be addressed. If the wearer has a particularly tight side, the load can be evened out by adjusting the dials to be tighter or looser.

[0098] There are many advantages specific to the Stablizer garments.

1. Dynamic Alignment

[0099] The Stabilizer garments are engineered to engage the muscles. The Stabilizer products in particular can align the spine, hip and knee guiding the body towards optimal movement patterns. The strapping system pulls the pelvis into a subtle posterior tilt, promoting a strong, active core and reducing pressure on your lower back.

2. Build Strength, not Dependence

[0100] Unlike traditional braces, the Stabilizer actively trains the body, helping build muscle memory and safeguard vulnerable joints. With regular use, it can strengthen and stabilize the body for sustained relief.

3. Precision Support

[0101] The Stabilizer can be tailored to the user's unique needs by adjusting tension provided by the straps via the dials for each leg separately.

4. Built for Athletes, Designed for Everyday Movement

[0102] Whether lunging, twisting, or powering through uneven terrain, the Stabilizer does not need bulky braces or adhesives to allow full, unrestricted movement while delivering support as needed to stay active.

5. Prevents Injury

[0103] By aligning the hips and engaging the quads, the Stabilizer reduces strain on critical joints, helping to prevent injuries.

6. Reduces Pain

[0104] The Stabilizer products can assist with relief in the lower back, hips and knees as the leggings shift pressure away from vulnerable areas and onto active muscles.

7. Boost Recovery and Endurance

[0105] Increased blood flow aids in faster recovery and greater stamina, empowering the wearer to push further.

8. Mind-Body Connection

[0106] The gentle tension provided by the integrated strapping system and resistance films guide the body back into proper form. This constant feedback trains for stability, balance, and posture.

[0107] The foregoing description, along with the accompanying drawings, sets forth certain specific details in order to provide a thorough understanding of various disclosed embodiments. However, one skilled in the relevant art will recognize that the disclosed embodiments may be practiced in various combinations, without one or more of these specific details, or with other methods, components, devices, materials, etc. In other instances, well-known structures or components that are associated with the environment of the present disclosure, including but not limited to the communication systems and networks, have not been shown or described in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring descriptions of the embodiments.

[0108] Throughout the specification, claims, and drawings, the following terms take the meaning explicitly associated herein, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The term herein refers to the specification, claims, and drawings associated with the current application. The phrases in one embodiment, in another embodiment, in various embodiments, in some embodiments, in other embodiments, and other variations thereof refer to one or more features, structures, functions, limitations, or characteristics of the present disclosure, and are not limited to the same or different embodiments unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. As used herein, the term or is an inclusive or operator, and is equivalent to the phrases A or B, or both or A or B or C, or any combination thereof, and lists with additional elements are similarly treated. The term based on is not exclusive and allows for being based on additional features, functions, aspects, or limitations not described, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. In addition, throughout the specification, the meaning of a, an, and the include both the singular and plural references.

[0109] The above description has particularly shown and described example embodiments. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the legal scope of this patent application.