Cuff-based athletic training device

An athletic training device for enabling and teaching proper athletic movements while executing various athletic exercises. Particularly, the present disclosure relates to an athletic training device that enhances neuromuscular control in connection with keeping an athlete's hands close to each other, and also close to his/her torso by providing a restricted range of motion while being easily wearable and removable. Generally, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to adjustable, comfortable, cuff-based training devices that securely encircle a user's wrists with cuff-based members flexibly bound together for use in connection with swing-based movements. A central connecting sub-section typically comprises attachments, which affix a resilient, flexible medium to either of the cuff-based members providing a limited-but not unduly rigid-range of motion during utilization. Moreover, the cuff-based training device provides rigidity while contorting as the wearer performs various athletic actions confirming correct and proper techniques.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to athletic training devices, and more particularly to cuff-based athletic training devices for improving athletic abilities of persons involved in swing-based sports such as baseball, cricket, golf, softball, tennis, and the like.

BACKGROUND

In many kinds of swing-based sports, it is desirous for an athlete to keep his or her hands in close proximity to each other (e.g., as needed during a swing or when fielding a ball) to promote enhanced control and a good finishing position during various athletic moves. Also, in some circumstances it is advantageous for an athlete to keep his or her hands in close proximity to his or her torso prior to extending them outwardly. The correct execution of these movements during swing-based sports generally promotes desired athletic performance. Examples of such sports include (but are not limited to) baseball, cricket, softball, and golf, wherein an athlete preferably keeps the hands close to each other and close to the torso (e.g., before swinging a baseball bat, cricket bat, or a golf club). In another instance, instead of trying to reach for an incoming ball while extending the arms in a “fielding position” (e.g., in a sport like baseball or cricket) an athlete can obtain a positional advantage if he or she moves his or her feet longitudinally or latitudinally in unison with the rest of his or her body.

Traditionally, persons playing sports to improve their athletic abilities use athletic training devices. Such devices generally help develop agility and/or muscle memory for improving sports and athletic performance. Use of said devices can assist in swing position, torso position, body movement, or muscle memory. Athletic training aids or devices are available for various sports, but are often implemented on a misguided portion of the user's body creating discomfort and improper movement. Some of these devices can have multiple uses; therefore, they may be utilized for improving performance for a plurality of sports. Further, these training devices promote proper athletic mechanics when enacting routine movements. Repetitively performing athletic drills with training aids can help an athlete's muscles “remember” proper techniques.

However, many of these athletic training devices are often restrictive to the athlete. For example, some devices do not allow for full range of motion of the wearer's hands as needed in a swing or in other positions, which can cause injury to the wearer. Specifically, many devices do not have the resiliency, comfort, or performance desired by a wearer. Further, uncomfortable training aids can hinder the proper form the device aims to instill. Often, one's desire to relieve discomfort during athletic drills produces a breakdown of appropriate movement thereby invalidating the device's function. Another particular disadvantage of many traditional training devices comprises the many associated moving or complex parts or components of the device, such that a user has difficulty carrying and/or utilizing the device. Training aids are tools designed to encourage athletes to progress in skill and craft. Nuisance devices that provide challenges for athletes generally stemming from device intricacy, awkwardness, or convolution can detract from device utilization and the end goal of athletic improvement.

Some types of conventional training devices fit loosely around the portion of the body to which they are designated to adhere. A loose fit makes it difficult to ensure that the athlete, while repetitively training, is consecutively executing the correct motions. Generally, a training aid attached securely and comfortably to the user will confirm repetitive motions are exercised in like manner consecutively. Because not every user's or athlete's body is exactly the same, an athletic training device should be rigid, ensuring exercises and athletic actions are executed properly, but not so rigid that it does not conform to the athlete's specific body profile.

Therefore, there is a long-felt but unresolved need for an athletic training device for swing based-sports that enables athletes to gain muscle memory in connection with keeping his or her hands in close proximity to each other, and to the athlete torsos. There is a further need for a device that provides some degree of freedom of movement and yet provides the required restricted range of motion for effective training. The device should be lightweight, portable, and easy to use. Furthermore, the device should be comfortable and not have toxic effects on an athlete's body when worn for long periods of time.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

Briefly described and according to one embodiment, aspects of the present disclosure generally relate to athletic training devices for enabling and teaching proper athletic movements while executing various athletic exercises. Particularly, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to athletic training devices that enhance neuromuscular control in connection with keeping an athlete's hands close to each other, and also close to his/her torso by providing a restricted range of motion while being easily wearable and removable. Generally, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to adjustable, comfortable, cuff-based training devices that securely encircle a user's wrists with cuff-based members flexibly bound together. Moreover, the cuff-based training device provides rigidity while contorting as the wearer performs various athletic actions confirming correct and proper techniques.

According to one embodiment, the athletic training device comprises adjustable, durable straps with attached cuffs (e.g., semi-rigid foam pads), forming cuff-based members. The cuff-based members are fashioned from comfortable materials that encircle the wrists of an athlete when in use. Further, the cuff-based members generally contain a fastening means enabling the cuffs to remain secure around the wrists of an athlete during various athletic activities. According to one embodiment, the cuff-based athletic training device comprises central connecting sub-section joining the cuff-based members. The central connecting sub-section typically comprises attachments that affix a resilient, flexible medium to either of the cuff-based members providing a limited-but not unduly rigid-range of motion during utilization. Other details, aspects, and features of embodiments of the present athletic training device are described in greater detail herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

OVERVIEW

Aspects of the present disclosure generally relate to athletic training devices for enabling and teaching proper athletic movements while executing various athletic exercises. Particularly, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to athletic training devices that enhance neuromuscular control in connection with keeping an athlete's hands close to each other, and also close to his/her torso by providing a restricted range of motion while being easily wearable and removable. Generally, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to adjustable, comfortable, cuff-based training devices that securely encircle a user's wrists with cuff-based members flexibly bound together. Moreover, the cuff-based training device provides rigidity while contorting as the wearer performs various athletic actions confirming correct and proper techniques.

According to one embodiment, the athletic training device comprises adjustable, durable straps with attached cuffs (e.g., semi-rigid foam pads), forming cuff-based members. The cuff-based members are fashioned from comfortable materials, which encircle the wrists of an athlete when in use. Further, the cuff-based members generally contain a fastening means enabling the cuffs to remain secure around the wrists of an athlete during various athletic activities. According to one embodiment, the cuff-based athletic training device comprises central connecting sub-section joining the cuff-based members. The central connecting sub-section typically comprises attachments that affix a resilient, flexible medium to either of the cuff-based members providing a limited- but not unduly rigid-range of motion during utilization. Other details, aspects, and features of embodiments of the present athletic training device are described in greater detail herein.

Exemplary Embodiment

Referring now to the figures,FIG. 1illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the athletic training device10, which is designed to be worn by a person (also referred to as an “athlete”, “player,” or “wearer”). As shown inFIG. 1, the athletic training device10comprises a pair of cuffs20for encircling the wrists of a wearer, and a central connecting sub-assembly12for connecting the cuffs together. In one embodiment, the central connecting sub-assembly12comprises a pair of ring elements14and a connecting element16(e.g., emulsion hose, rubber connector, plastic tube, etc.). Alternate views of the athletic training device10are shown inFIGS. 2 and 3. In one embodiment, a strap22is attached to a cuff20enabling the cuff20to be wrapped around the wrists of an athlete. According to one embodiment, one end of the strap22enters through the orifice of the ring element14, and loops around the wrists of a wearer while in use.

Additionally, the strap22typically comprises a fastening means (e.g., a snap system or a buckling system) ensuring the strap22can remain secure around the wrists of an athlete utilizing the cuff-based training device. As shown inFIG. 1and according to one embodiment, the fastening system comprises a typical hook and loop-fastening system, whereby a loop portion26is attached to the exterior of the strap22, and a hook portion24is located on the interior portion of the strap22. For example, inFIGS. 2 and 3a wearer13utilizing a cuff-based training device10is holding an exemplary object11used in swing sports such as a baseball, softball, or tennis. InFIG. 2, the exemplary object is a baseball bat held in a desired initial position with the wearer's hands positioned close together and close to the torso. A detailed enlarged picture of the strap22, border trim18, and connecting sub-assembly12comprising a ring element14and connecting element16is shown inFIG. 4. Further details concerning additional exemplary embodiments of the athletic training device10will be described in connection withFIGS. 5-8.

FIG. 2illustrates an embodiment of the present device10in use by an athlete13holding an exemplary object11. As shown, the device10ensures the wrists are in proper position, close together, and close to the torso via the central sub-connecting assembly12and in particular the connecting element16. In various embodiments, the connecting element16is a resilient emulsion hose, rubber tube, resilient elastic band, etc. As will be generally discussed herein, the connecting element16is typically designed to provide a certain amount of elasticity, but enough rigidity to maintain correct form. Also shown inFIG. 2are the cuffs20securely wrapped around tightened around the wearer's wrists. The adequate width of the hitting cuff20(discussed in more detail below), provides the necessary comfort (but also stability) required when the device10is utilized for extended periods of time.

Referring toFIGS. 3 and 4, additional details of the cuff-based athletic training device10are shown. For example, it is shown that the central connecting sub-assembly12comprises a connecting element16that attaches to ring elements14. In the disclosed embodiment of the device10, the connecting element16is cylindrically- or tubular-shaped and made of latex, elastic, or other elastomeric material. According to aspects of the present disclosure, such mechanical arrangements of the central connecting sub-assembly (discussed in the embodiments herein) enable restricted range of motion while being easily wearable and removable. In other embodiments, the central connecting sub-assembly12comprises only a latex tube, or equivalently, a unitary structure with terminating clips.

FIG. 4illustrates a magnified view of one end of the central connecting sub-assembly12. In one embodiment, the connecting element16is secured around the trapezoidal ring element14such that excess space along the shorter, vertical segment is minimal. Therefore, the width of the connecting element16and the designed height of the ring element14ensure there is minimal vertical movement of the connecting element16along the ring element14. Similarly, the longer, vertical segment of the trapezoidal ring element14is constructed such that the width of the strap22fits around the ring element14with a minimal vertical clearance. This ensures the desired athletic position is maintained while executing athletic movements. In one embodiment, the eye30that contains the longer section of the trapezoidal ring element14is constructed by wrapping an excessive portion of the strap22around the ring element14and attaching the excess to the strap22. In another embodiment, the eye30may wrap around the ring element14and affix to the interior of the cuff20. It will be understood and appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that the geometric and material aspects of the rings, connecting element, and other members of the athletic training device disclosed herein are for exemplary purposes only, and are not intended to limit the spirit or scope of the disclosure in any way.

FIG. 5(includingFIGS. 5A and 5B) illustrates an exterior view and an interior view, respectively, of a combined cuff/strap assembly50, which is used in the training device10. The cuff/strap assembly50generally comprises a strap portion22, a cuff20bordered by a fabric trim18, and a fastening means24,26for securing the hitting cuff20around a user's wrists. As previously mentioned, the cuff-based device10is utilized by athletes performing various movements. This device10generally comprises of cuff/strap assemblies50for encircling a user's wrists, which are simultaneously bound together to restrict movement between each wrist. Individual details of an exemplary cuff20and a strap22will further be discussed in connection withFIG. 6. Alternate embodiments of the cuff/strap assembly50include a size adjustment mechanism is attached to the strap22so that wearers with larger wrist sizes are able to utilize the athletic training device10.

FIG. 5Aillustrates a plan view of an exterior surface of the exemplary cuff/strap assembly50. The strap portion22is generally affixed horizontally at or near the center of the cuff portion20via stitching, epoxy, high-strength adhesive, or some other similar attachment means. Additionally, a hook portion24of a typical hook and loop fastener such as VELCRO™, is located on the top of the strap22as shown inFIG. 5A. In one embodiment, adjacent to the hook portion24is an affixed logo or branding section23attached by a stitching means. Generally, one end of the strap22encompasses a perforation with a ring element14in its interior and the opposite end of the strap22is free of attachments. Although a typical hook and loop fastener24,26is shown inFIG. 5, it will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that any fastening means can be utilized, such as snaps, metal buckles, plastic buckles, etc. Additionally, embodiments of the present device10are not limited to stitching, but may utilize high-strength adhesive, epoxy, or any other means of to construct the device.

Referring toFIG. 5B, a plan view of an interior surface of the cuff/strap assembly50is shown. In the embodiment shown, the loop portion26of the hook and loop fastener system is affixed to the underside of the strap22, which enables the strap22when inserted through the ring element14and joined to the top side hook portion24to securely fix the cuff20around an athlete's wrists. Generally, the loop portion22is attached to the underside of the strap via a means of stitching. In one embodiment of the present device50, the longitudinal length of the hook portion24and the longitudinal length of the loop portion26are configured to allow the user adjust the locations and lengths of the mating portions between the fasteners24,26, thereby, enabling a device to be usable by athletes with wrists varying in size.

As discussed, another exemplary embodiment of the device50comprises a ring element14that enables the strap portion22to pass there through, thereby encircling the cuff portion20around the athlete's wrist. In one embodiment, ring element14is generally, but not necessarily trapezoidal shaped, tapering down to a shorter connecting end, and thus optimizing the connection. In another embodiment, the ring element14could be round or semi-circular, with a straight segment affixed to on one end of the strap22. The round section could contain a smaller contoured segment (e.g., a latch or cut-out) that minutely, but adequately protrudes from the main round portion. The connecting element16would generally settle in this protruding section in a way that neutralizes the movement of the connecting element16. Neutralization of the connecting element16ensures the connecting element16maintains a consistent and non-negotiating position on the ring element14. The connection configurations of the connecting element16and the ring element14ensure consistent distance between hands and consistent distance between the hands and torso when performing desired exercises. The ring element14is typically made from a rigid material, such as metal, high-strength plastic, carbon-like material, or any other similar solid material and is attached to the strap22via an aperture located at one end of the strap22.

Now referring toFIG. 6, a plan view and side view is shown of the hitting cuff20, including the fabric border trim18. In one embodiment of device10, the cuff20is generally composed of a soft, comfortable, malleable material, such as polyester, neoprene, etc. ensuring comfortable (yet durable) use for athletes. The selection of the material generally provides a non-toxic and comfortable surface. Therefore, the hitting cuff20is able to promote the health of the athlete's skin. In one embodiment, a cuff20has padding (e.g., foam, rubber, cotton, etc.) in the middle of the material that comprises the cuff20. InFIG. 6A, the cuff20is generally rectangular shaped, featuring contoured corners, and a relatively longer length than height. As will be understood and appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, embodiments of the present device are not limited to rectangular shaped cuffs20, but utilize a cuff embodying any shape, such as square, trapezoidal, triangular, etc. In one embodiment, the length of the hitting cuff20hcl is generally in the range of 17-23 centimeters, preferably closer to 19.5 centimeters.

Also shown inFIG. 6Ais the border trim18, which is generally overlaid and attached around the perimeter of the cuff portion20. In one embodiment, the trim18encompasses a border of approximately 1.3 centimeters. Generally, the height hch of the cuff20, as stated previously, is relatively shorter than the length hcl and is in the range of 7.5-10.5 centimeters, ideally around 9 centimeters. In the embodiment represented inFIG. 6, the cuff20is relatively flat providing a light-weight article worn by an athlete.

FIG. 6Billustrates a side view of one embodiment of the cuff20, illustrating the relative width. Generally, the width of the cuff is in the range of 2-5 millimeters thick, ideally around 3 millimeters. As will be understood and appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, embodiments of the present device are not limited to a relatively flat cuff20, but further embodiments may comprise a cuff that is relatively thicker providing more of cushion between the strap22and an athlete. As will be further understood and appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, the relatively flat cuff20reduces the weight felt by the user and allows the wrists to bend and flex with ease.

In several cuff embodiments, a border trim18is attached (or stitched) around the cuff20. The border trim18generally comprises a soft, elastic material such as polyester, nylon, etc., providing an extra layer of comfort and usability for the athlete. The border trim18requires enough height di to fold over the edge of the cuff portion20, usually around 2.5 centimeters. Accordingly, once the border trim18is draped over the edge with an equal amount of material on the front and back of the cuff portion20, it is affixed to the outer perimeter of the cuff20via some attaching means (stitching, high-strength adhesive, etc.) and contours in a curved nature around the edges. The overlapping border trim18combined with the cuff portion characterizes one embodiment of the cuff20of the device10presented in this disclosure.

FIG. 7illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the strap portion22, represented byFIGS. 7A,7B, and7C. Also shown inFIG. 7Dis a detail of the ring element14that, in one embodiment, is connected to the robust strap22. In one embodiment, the strap portion22is comprises a resilient and durable material (e.g. nylon, polypropylene, etc.). This durable material ensures that the strap22has the capability to withstand frequent and prolonged use by athletes. The strap22is generally rectangular shaped, with a longer length than height and attaches across the cuff20at or near the horizontal center. As shown inFIG. 7A, on one lateral end of the strap22, a ring element14is affixed to a perforated portion of the strap22. A product identification patch23is typically stitched to one end (e.g., either on or close to the hitting cuff20) of the strap22identifying information such as the manufacturer, size, etc. As previously mentioned, the strap portion22is generally longer than wide. This particular embodiment enables the circumference of the strap22to sufficiently encircle a user's wrist and maintain usability with the presented device10. The length of said strap22sl is generally, but not necessarily 30-35 centimeters, with a typical width of approximately 3-5 centimeters.

In another aspect, fasteners24and26(such as the hook and loop or “VELCRO™” fasteners) are stitched on the opposite end of the strap22. The hook portion24is stitched to the top of the strap22and generally, comprises a relative length hl of 8-11 centimeters. A small clearance of about 1-3 centimeters is kept between the end of the strap22and the section of the hook24fasteners. A side view of the strap22(shown inFIG. 7B) reveals the loop orifice30through which the ring14passes therethrough; affixing the ring to the strap22. In this particular example, which is not representative of all examples of the present embodiment, a surplus of the strap material, approximately 4 centimeters is folded underneath the strap to create the perforation for the ring14. The surplus is stitched to the underside of the strap22to maintain the perforation30securely.

An interior view of the strap22is shown exemplarily inFIG. 7C. This view reveals one end of the strap (i.e., the side opposite the hook fastener24and on the opposing surface) comprising the loop fastener26. Thus, in one embodiment, hooks24and loops26are paired together in a hook top—loop bottom (or inversely, hook bottom—loop top) combination such that the hooks fasten to the loops. In one embodiment, the loop portion26is approximately 12-16 centimeters long ll and securely affixes to the strap via (but not necessarily) a stitching process.

Additionally, a plan view of a ring element14is shown inFIG. 7D. As illustrated, the ring element14generally comprises a trapezoidal shape having two opposing sides, one shorter in length than the other, positioned in parallel, and the two other sides of equal length connecting the two parallel sections in a diagonal approach. While the longer of the parallel sides is securely affixed in the aforementioned opening30residing on the strap22, the shorter parallel section houses the securely appended connecting element16. In one embodiment, the outer diameter rol of the rings is approximately 2-2.7 centimeters and the inner diameter ril is generally 1-1.5 centimeters. The outer diameter rih of the rings is 3.7-4.5 centimeters and the inner diameter roh is 2.0 centimeters. Accordingly, in one embodiment shown the trapezoidal shape of the ring element14allows the connecting element16to stay in a fixed position upon the shorter parallel section of the ring element14. Movement of the connecting element16about the ring element14is thereby negated; hence, as athletes utilize the disclosed device10, optimum distance between the wrists and hands will be sustained ensuring proper athletic motions are executed.

Now referring toFIG. 8(consisting ofFIGS. 8A and 8B), exemplary details of connecting element16(e.g., emulsion hose) for an athletic training device10embodiment are shown. For example, as shown inFIG. 8A, in one embodiment, the connecting element16comprises durable, resilient, elastic tubing. In this particular example, the connecting element16is comprised of latex, but should not be limited to such construction, as other embodiments may comprise rubber, polyurethane, synthetic-rubber, or like materials. As illustrated inFIG. 8A, the connecting element16comprises a single tube with 0.5 centimeter inner-diameter, 0.2 centimeter wall thickness, and a 14 centimeter length. Also, as previously discussed, the connecting element16may further comprise two (2) elastic tubes, each tube engaging with a pair of terminating clips and connected to the rings14in various configurations. For example, one embodiment would include both clips looping under one ring and both clips terminating on the opposing ring (not shown). Yet another configuration would embody one connecting element16engaging terminating clips on either end and attaching to the rings in a cross-wise fashion. In one embodiment, when the device10is in use by an athlete the preferred distance between the cuffs20is generally between 3-5 centimeters, therefore the connecting element16would maintain a length ehl of approximately 3-5 centimeters.

Table 1 provides data relating generally to properties of one embodiment of the connecting element16. The data presented in Table 1 represent approximations and are not necessarily intended to limit the description or scope presented within, but merely facilitates description of several embodiments within the present disclosure. According to one embodiment of the connecting element16, when utilized, the connecting element16is designed for an approximate maximum strength elongation of 500%. For example, as an athlete executes various motions, the furthest extent to which the connecting medium will stretch is 500% of its equilibrium length. Additionally, and as shown in Table 1, the relative multitude of repetitious elongations that may be performed on the emulsion tube is 9260 occurrences. Furthermore and still referring to Table 1, the relative pulling strength at 100%, 200%, and 300% elongation is 5.24 kgs. £11.56 lbs.), 7.04 kgs. (15.51 lbs.), and 7.93 kgs. (17.48 lbs.), respectively. The aforementioned exemplary embodiments exhibit the present device's ability to allow repetitive athletic movements, and adequate flexibility, while maintain appropriate resistance and rigidity.

Now turning toFIG. 8B, exemplary details of a connecting element16in combination with a hitting cuff/strap assembly is shown50. According to one aspect, a hitting cuff20is attached to a strap22further comprising a hook fastener24and a ring element14secured within the perforation30of said strap22. As shown inFIG. 8B, two identical hitting cuff/strap assemblies50are centrally coupled per the ring elements14engaging the connecting element16. As will be understood and appreciated, the connecting element16can be attached to the ring elements16in a variety of ways. For example, at either end of the connecting element16approximately 5.0 centimeters towards the center is a horizontal incision exposing the center cavity of the connecting element16. As a means of securing the emulsion tube to the ring14, one end of the connecting element16is pulled underneath a respective ring14so the aforementioned incision resides adjacent and parallel to the shorter section of the ring. This ensures one of the sides of the connecting element16extending from the under the ring is considerably longer than the other. The considerably longer side of the connecting element14is subsequently wrapped around the ring with both the longer and shorter sides of the connecting element adjacent and parallel. The hollow central cavity in the shorter side of the connecting element is exposed by opening said incision and pulling the considerably longer end of the connecting element16through. It will be understood and appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, there is a plurality of means available concerning securing the connecting element16to the ring elements14, hence the demonstrated method is not intended as a comprehensive means. In other embodiments, the connecting element16may be attached to the ring elements14via ties, spot welds, high-strength adhesives, clips, etc. Further, in one embodiment, the connecting element16is integrally affixed to the straps22via stitching or some other attachment means.

The foregoing description of the exemplary embodiments has been presented only for the purposes of illustration and description and is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit aspects of the present disclosure to the precise forms disclosed. For example, according to other embodiments, the connecting element16(or, generally the central connecting sub-assembly12of the athletic training device10) may include breakaway bands. Alternately, embodiments of the present athletic training device can include other mechanisms of fastening the hitting cuffs to the wearer's hands, instead of a traditional hook-loop combination. In yet other embodiments, the athletic training device comprises sub-components that can be detachable, e.g., a hitting cuff, strap, a central connecting sub-assembly, and others, such that the overall athletic training device can be assembled and disassembled easily. As will be further understood, embodiments of the present athletic training device may comprise sub-components that are manufactured from a variety of materials, including rubber, acrylics, nylon, steel, metal, plastics, and any other material that is customarily used in sports articles manufacturing. Further, embodiments of the present athletic training device may comprise various sizes to accommodate different-sized wearers. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching.

The embodiments were chosen and described in order to explain the principles of the inventions and their practical application so as to enable others skilled in the art to utilize the inventions and various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. Alternative embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art to which the present inventions pertain without departing from their spirit and scope. Accordingly, the scope of the present inventions is defined by the appended claims rather than the foregoing description and the exemplary embodiments described therein.