Patent Publication Number: US-2022212154-A1

Title: Foam mixing system

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a National Stage Application of International Patent Application No. PCT/US2020/033083, filed May 15, 2020, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/849,228, filed May 17, 2019, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/860,255, filed Jun. 12, 2019 the entire disclosures of each of which are hereby incorporated by reference as if set forth in their entirety herein. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     This application generally relates to mixing systems configured to mix a solution comprising a liquid adhesive and gas, and, more particularly, to mixing systems including a rotatable rotor having a plurality of teeth for mixing the solution. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Hot melt thermoplastic adhesives are used in a number of applications such as packaging and product assembly. In conventional hot melt adhesive foam dispensing systems, a gear pump supplies a solution comprising an adhesive and gas to an adhesive dispenser, which can be referred to as a gun. The gun contains a valve at an outlet nozzle through which the solution is dispensed to atmospheric pressure. When the solution is dispensed, the gas is released from the solution to become entrapped in the adhesive to form a foam on a substrate to which the adhesive is applied. 
     During mixing, the gas can form large bubbles within the solution, which prevents the gas and adhesive from becoming adequately mixed. As a result, foam mixing systems can be utilized to break up the bubbles and create a more homogenous adhesive and gas solution. Such mixing systems can utilize static mixers and/or active mixers so as to effectively mix the solution. Though active mixers including rotating parts can be effective in mixing the solution, they may require such increased rotational speeds to perform effective mixing that certain components, such as seals, may fail often and require frequent replacement, which leads to production downtime and increased costs. Further, such mixers can also require increased power to sufficiently mix the solution, further adding to production costs. 
     As a result, there is a need for a rotating mixer that can effectively mix an adhesive and gas solution at lower rotational speeds. 
     SUMMARY 
     An embodiment of the present disclosure is mixing system configured to mix liquid adhesive and gas to create a solution. The mixing system includes a manifold defining an adhesive input configured to receive the liquid adhesive, a gas input configured to receive the gas, a mixing chamber in fluid communication with the adhesive and gas inputs, an output configured to output the solution, and an output passage extending from the mixing chamber to the output. The mixing system also includes a rotor configured to rotate within the mixing chamber about a longitudinal axis so as to mix the solution, a motor configured to rotate the rotor, and a static mixer positioned within the output passage and configured to statically mix the solution flowing through the output passage. 
     Another embodiment of the present disclosure is a mixing system configured to mix a solution comprising a liquid adhesive and a gas. The mixing system includes a manifold defining an input configured to receive the solution, a mixing chamber in fluid communication with the input, and an output in fluid communication with the mixing chamber and configured to output the solution. The mixing system also includes a rotor configured to rotate within the mixing chamber so as to mix the solution, and a motor configured to rotate the rotor at less than  100  revolutions per minute (RPM) such that the rotor mixes the solution at a shear rate of greater than  100  reciprocal seconds. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. The drawings show illustrative embodiments of the disclosure. It should be understood, however, that the application is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown. 
         FIG. 1A  illustrates a perspective view of a mixing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 1B  illustrates another perspective view of the mixing system of  FIG. 1A ; 
         FIG. 2A  illustrates a cross-sectional view of the mixing system shown in  FIG. 1A , taken along line  2 A- 2 A in  FIG. 1A ; 
         FIG. 2B . illustrates a cross-sectional view of the mixing system shown in  FIG. 1A , taken along line  2 B- 2 B in  FIG. 1A ; 
         FIG. 3  illustrates a cross-sectional view of the mixing assembly of the mixing system shown in  FIG. 1A , taken along line  2 A- 2 A in  FIG. 1A ; 
         FIG. 4A  illustrates a perspective view of a stator of the mixing assembly shown in  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 4B  illustrates an alternative perspective view of the stator shown in  FIG. 4A ; 
         FIG. 5  illustrates a perspective view of a plate and rotor of the mixing assembly shown in  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 6A  illustrates a side view of the rotor shown in  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 6B  illustrates a front view of the rotor shown in  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 6C  illustrates an enlarged portion of the front view of the rotor shown in  FIG. 6B ; 
         FIG. 7  illustrates a perspective view of a tooth of the rotor shown in  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 8  illustrates a perspective view of the static mixer of the mixing system shown in  FIG. 2B ; and 
         FIG. 9  illustrates a cross-sectional view of the static mixer shown in  FIG. 8 , taken along line  9 - 9  in  FIG. 8 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Described herein is a mixing system  10  that includes a mixing assembly  100  for mixing a solution comprising a liquid adhesive and a gas. Certain terminology is used to describe the mixing system  10  in the following description for convenience only and is not limiting. The words “right”, “left”, “lower,” and “upper” designate directions in the drawings to which reference is made. The words “inner” and “outer” refer to directions toward and away from, respectively, the geometric center of the description to describe the mixing system  10  and related parts thereof The words “upstream” and “downstream” refer to directions along the flow of solution in relation to a particular component of the mixing system  10 . The words “forward” and “rearward” refer to directions in a longitudinal direction  2  and a direction opposite the longitudinal direction  2  along the mixing system  10  and related parts thereof. The terminology includes the above-listed words, derivatives thereof and words of similar import. 
     Unless otherwise specified herein, the terms “longitudinal,” “lateral,” and “vertical” are used to describe the orthogonal directional components of various components of the mixing system  10 , as designated by the longitudinal direction  2 , lateral direction  4 , and vertical direction  6 . It should be appreciated that while the longitudinal and lateral directions  2 ,  4  are illustrated as extending along a horizontal plane, and the vertical direction  6  is illustrated as extending along a vertical plane, the planes that encompass the various directions may differ during use. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1A-3 , a mixing system  10  configured to mix a solution comprising a liquid adhesive and a gas is shown. The mixing system  10  can be utilized in a wide variety of applications, and as a result the liquid adhesive can be Room-Temperature-Vulcanizing (RTV) silicones, thermoplastic rubber-based hot melts, thermoplastic hot melts, polyurethane (PUR) hot melts, hybrid sealants, etc., while the gas can be nitrogen, noble gases, carbon dioxide, etc. Any combination of these liquid adhesives and gasses can be mixed to form a solution that can form a foam on a substrate when dispensed from a foam dispenser. 
     The mixing system  10  can include a mixer  20  comprising a manifold  50  and a mixing assembly  100  configured to be received within the manifold  50 , where the mixing assembly  100  will be described further below. The mixing system  10  can further include a motor  24  operably coupled to a rotor  134  of the mixing assembly  100 . The motor  24  can be a DC motor, variable frequency AC motor, servo motor, stepper motor, etc. The mixing system  10  can also include a motor reducer  28  operably connected to the motor  24  and the rotor  134 , where the motor reducer  28  is configured to reduce the rotational speed imparted on the rotor  134  while increasing the torque imparted on the rotor  134 . The motor reducer  28  can produce a 10:1 reduction, though other reductions are contemplated. 
     The mixing system  10  can include a controller  32  in wired and/or wireless signal communication with the mixing system  10 , and in particular the motor  24  and flow meter  70  of the mixing system  10 . The controller  32  can be configured to control operation of the motor  24 , and can comprise any suitable computing device configured to host a software application for monitoring and controlling various operations of the mixing system  10  as described herein. It will be understood that the controller  32  can include any appropriate computing device, examples of which include a processor, a desktop computing device, a server computing device, or a portable computing device, such as a laptop, tablet, or smart phone. Specifically, the controller  32  can include a memory and a human-machine interface (HMI) device. The memory can be volatile (such as some types of RAM), non-volatile (such as ROM, flash memory, etc.), or a combination thereof. The controller  32  can include additional storage (e.g., removable storage and/or non-removable storage) including, but not limited to, tape, flash memory, smart cards, CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or other optical storage, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, universal serial bus (USB) compatible memory, or any other medium which can be used to store information and which can be accessed by the controller  32 . The memory of the controller  32  can be configured to store and recall on demand various mixing operations and the requisite operation of the motor  24  required to achieve the corresponding mixing characteristics. 
     The HMI device can include inputs that provide the ability to control the controller  32 , and thus the motor  24 , via, for example, buttons, soft keys, a mouse, voice actuated controls, a touch screen, movement of the controller  32 , visual cues (e.g., moving a hand in front of a camera on the controller  32 ), or the like. The HMI device can provide outputs via a graphical user interface, including visual information, such as the visual indication of the current conditions within the mixing system  10 , as well as acceptable ranges for these parameters via a display. Other outputs can include audio information (e.g., via speaker), mechanically (e.g., via a vibrating mechanism), or a combination thereof. In various configurations, the HMI device can include a display, a touch screen, a keyboard, a mouse, a motion detector, a speaker, a microphone, a camera, or any combination thereof. The HMI device can further include any suitable device for inputting biometric information, such as, for example, fingerprint information, retinal information, voice information, and/or facial characteristic information, for instance, so as to require specific biometric information for accessing the controller  32 . 
     Continuing with  FIGS. 1A-3 , the manifold  50  of the mixer  20  can extend from a first end  50   a  to a second end  50   b  opposite the first end  50   a  along the longitudinal direction  2 . The manifold  50  can further define an input  54  at the second end  50   b  configured to receive the adhesive from an adhesive source (not shown). Though depicted as located at the second end  50   b , the input  54  can be otherwise located on the manifold  50  as desired. The flow path of the adhesive through the mixing system  10  is represented by the bold arrows shown in  FIGS. 2A and 2B . The manifold  50  can include a passage  62 , which extends from the input  54  to a mixing chamber  82 . The mixing system  10  can include a flow meter  70  that is configured to measure the flow rate of the adhesive flowing adjacent the input  54 . In one example, the flow meter  70  can be disposed upstream of the input  54  as shown. In another example, the flow meter can be configured to measure the flow rate downstream of the input  54 , such as along the passage  62  between the input  54  and the mixing chamber  82 . The flow meter  70  can comprise a gear flow meter, though other types of flow meters can be used as desired. As shown schematically in  FIG. 2A , the flow meter  70  can be in wired and/or wireless communication with the controller  32 , such that the flow meter  70  can provide the controller  32  with a signal indicative of the measured flow rate of the adhesive. 
     The mixing chamber  82  is configured to receive the mixing assembly  100 , as will be described further below. The mixing chamber  82  is thus in fluid communication with the input  54  and receives adhesive from the input  54 , as well as gas from a gas input assembly  92 , which will be described further below, to form a solution comprising the adhesive and the gas. The mixing chamber  82  can define a cavity extending into the manifold  50  from the first end  50   a . The mixing chamber  82  can have a substantially circular cross section viewed along a plane defined by the lateral and vertical directions  4 ,  6  so as to form a complementary shape with components of the mixing assembly  100 . As a result, the mixing chamber  82  can define other shapes to accommodate alternate embodiments of the mixing assembly  100 . The mixer  20  can include a cap  86  configured to couple to the manifold  50  at the first end  50   a  such that the cap  86  bounds and at least partially defines the mixing chamber  82 . The cap  86  can be coupled to the manifold  50  so as to create a fluid seal between the manifold  50  and the cap  86 , thus preventing the solution from leaking from the mixing chamber  82 . The cap  86  can be coupled to the manifold  50  through detachable fasteners, though other methods of attaching the cap  86  to the manifold  50  are contemplated, such as threaded engagement, clamps, etc. A passage  90  can extend longitudinally through the cap  86  such that a rod  150  can extend through the cap  86  from the motor reducer  28  to the rotor  134 , as will be described further below. As shown in  FIG. 2B , the manifold  50  can further include an output  58  in fluid communication with the mixing chamber  82  through an output passage  84  and configured to output the mixed solution from the manifold  50 . A plurality of static mixers  250  can be disposed within the output passage  84  for statically mixing the solution, where the static mixers  250  will be described further below. Though depicted as located on the second end  50   b  of the manifold  50 , it is contemplated that the output  58  can be located elsewhere on the manifold  50  as desired. The output  58  can be configured to output the solution to a dispenser configured to apply the solution as a foam to a substrate, such as parts requiring a foam gasket or pleat stabilization. 
     The mixing system  10  can further include a gas input assembly  92  configured to provide pressurized gas to the mixing chamber  82 . The gas input assembly  92  can be configured to provide pressurized gas to the mixing chamber  82  from a pressurized gas source (not shown). The gas input assembly  92  can define a hose assembly or other assembly capable of directing a flow of pressurized gas, and can be in fluid communication with an gas input  96  defined by the manifold  50 . In the depicted embodiment, the gas input  96  extends from the outer surface of the manifold  50  to the mixing chamber  82 . An input valve  98  can be disposed within the gas input  96 , where the input valve  98  can be configured to selectively obstruct the gas input  96 . For example, in an open position, the input valve  98  can be configured to place the gas input assembly  92  in fluid communication with the mixing chamber  82 , while in a closed position, the input valve  98  can be configured to prevent the mixing chamber  82  and gas input assembly  92  from being in fluid communication. In the depicted embodiment, the input valve  98  can be normally in a closed position so as to prevent solution from exiting the mixing chamber  82  through the gas input assembly  92 . The input valve  98  can then open upon coming into contact with a pressurized gas flow of a sufficient flow rate, allowing the pressurized gas to flow into the mixing chamber  82 . The pressurized gas source supplying the gas input assembly  92  can be manually actuated by an operator of the mixing system  10 , or automatically by the controller  32 . 
     In operation, the adhesive can be pumped through the input  54  from the adhesive source at a particular rate. The flow meter  70  can measure the flow rate of the adhesive and communicate the flow rate to the controller  32 . Generally, the mixture produced by the mixing system  10  will comprise an amount of gas that necessarily relates to the amount of adhesive provided to the mixing chamber  82 . As a result, in response to receiving the flow rate of the adhesive from the flow meter  70 , the controller  32  can operate the pressurized gas source to provide an amount of gas to the mixing chamber  82  through the gas input assembly  92  that corresponds to the amount of adhesive provided to the mixing chamber from the adhesive source. The relative amounts of adhesive and gas that comprise the mixture can fluctuate depending upon factors such as the type of solution being created, the dispensing operation being performed, the type of adhesive and/or gas, etc. In other embodiments, the controller  32  can operate the pressurized gas source to provide an amount of gas to the mixing chamber  82 , and then operate the adhesive source to provide a requisite amount of adhesive to the input  54 . 
     Now referring to  FIGS. 2A-3 , the mixing assembly  100  will be described in greater detail. The mixing assembly  100  can include a rotor  134  operably coupled to the motor  24 , such the motor  24  is configured to rotate the rotor  134 . Specifically, the rotor  134  can define a first end  134   a , a second end  134   b  opposite the first end  134   a  along the longitudinal direction  2 , and an outer surface  135  that extends from the first end  134   a  to the second end  134   b . The rotor  134  can have a cylindrical shape, and the outer surface  135  can be a curved outer surface that is curved about a longitudinal axis A that is parallel to the longitudinal direction  2 . The rotor  134  can be configured to rotate within the mixing chamber  82  about the longitudinal axis A so as to mix the solution. The rotor  134  can define a passage  138  extending through the rotor  134  from the first end  134   a  to the second end  134   b  along the longitudinal direction  2 . The passage  138  is configured to receive a rod  150 , where the rod  150  extends from the rotor  134  to the motor reducer  28  so as to rotationally couple the rotor  134  to the motor reducer  28 . Specifically, the rod  150  extends from a first end  150   a  at which the rod  150  connects to the motor reducer  28 , to a second end  150   b  opposite the first end  150   a  along the longitudinal direction  2 , where the rod  150  connects to a fastener  154 , as will be described below. The passage  138  can have a substantially cylindrical shape that substantially corresponds to the outer profile of the rod  150 . However, the passage  138  can define other shapes as desired to accommodate various other rod embodiments. 
     The rod  150  can comprise a solid, cylindrical rod configured to transfer torque from the motor reducer  28  to the rotor  134 . The rod  150  can define at least one notch extending into the rod  150  from the outer surface, where the at least one notch is configured to receive a portion of a device that rotationally couples the rod  150  to the rotor  134 . In the depicted embodiment, the rod  150  can define a first notch  140   a  and a second notch  140   b  spaced from the first notch  140   a  along the longitudinal direction  2 . The rotor  134  can define a first channel  142   a  and a second channel  142   b  spaced from the first channel  142   a  along the longitudinal direction  2 , where each of the first and second channels  142   a ,  142   b  extends from the outer surface  135  of the rotor  134  to the passage  138 . Each of the first and second channels  142   a ,  142   b  is configured to receive a respective pin  162   a ,  162   b . The first pin  162   a  is configured to be disposed within the first channel  142   a  and engage the first notch  140   a , while the second pin  162   b  is configured to be disposed within the second channel  142   b  and engage the second notch  140   b  so as to rotatably couple the rotor  134  to the rod  150 . Engagement between the first and second pins  162   a ,  162   b  and the rotor  134  and rod  150  functions to rotationally couple the rod  150  to the rotor  134 . In the depicted embodiment, the first and second pins  162   a ,  162   b  can define an external threading configured to engage a corresponding threading within the first and second channels  142   a ,  142   b  to lock the first and second pins  162   a ,  162   b  within the first and second channels  142   a ,  142   b . However, it is contemplated that other methods of securing the pins  162   a ,  162   b  can be utilized. Though the first and second notches  140   a ,  140   b  are depicted as located on the rod  150  at particular locations, they can be otherwise located on the rod  150  as desired. Likewise, though the first and second channels  142   a ,  142   b  are depicted as located on the rod  150  at particular locations, they can be otherwise located within the rotor  134  as desired. However, the positioning of the first and second notches  140   a ,  140   b  will generally match that of the first and second channels  142   a ,  142   b.    
     Referring to  FIGS. 3 and 5 , the mixing assembly  100  can include a plate  146  attached to the second end  134   b  of the rotor  134 . Specifically, the rotor  134  can define a recess  188  extending into the rotor  134  from the second end  134   b , where the plate  146  is configured to be received by the recess  188 . The plate  146  can be attached to the rotor  134  through fasteners (not shown), though other means of attaching the plate  146  to the rotor  134  are contemplated, such as welding, integral formation, etc. As a result, the plate  146  can be rotationally coupled to the rotor  134 , such that the plate  146  rotates with the rotor  134  upon receiving torque from the motor  24  through the rod  150 . A passage  148  can extend through the plate  146  along the longitudinal direction  2 , where the passage  148  is substantially aligned with the passage  138  of the rotor  134  when the plate  146  is attached to the rotor  134 . This allows the rod  150  to extend through the passage  138  of the rotor  134  and through the passage  148  of the plate  146 . 
     The mixing assembly  100  can further include a stator  104  positioned within the mixing chamber  82 . The stator  104  can extend from a first end  104   a  to a second end  104   b  opposite the first end  104   a  along the longitudinal direction  2 . The first end  104   a  can include a main body  108  of the stator  104 , where the main body  108  defines a cross-section having a diameter that substantially matches the diameter of the cross-section of the mixing chamber  82 . In contrast, the second end  104   b  can include a protrusion  112  extending from the main body  108  along the longitudinal direction  2 , where the protrusion  112  defines a cross-section having a smaller diameter than the main body  108 . However, in other embodiments it is contemplated that the stator  104  can define a body having a diameter that is substantially constant from the first end  104   a  to the second end  104   b.    
     The stator  104  can define a passage  116  that extends through the stator  104  from the first end  104   a  to the second end  104   b  along the longitudinal direction  2 . The passage  116  can also extend through the stator  104  from the main body  108  to the protrusion  112 . The passage  116  can be in fluid communication with the passage  62 , such that the passage  116  is configured to receive the adhesive from the input  54  and provide the adhesive to the mixing chamber  82 . The passage  116  can be configured to receive a portion of the fastener  154  attached to the second end  150   b  of the rod  150 , as well as a locking ring  158  longitudinally attached to the stator  104  and configured to engage the fastener  154  so as to fix the fastener  154 , and thus the rod  150 , to the locking ring  158  and the stator  104  along the longitudinal direction  2 . The engagement between the fastener  154  and the locking ring  158  prevents the rod  150  and the rotor  134  from longitudinally pulling away from the stator  104 . The passage  116  can receive a plate  159  that defines a plurality of circumferentially-arranged bores  160  extending therethrough along the longitudinal direction  2 . In operation, the adhesive flows through the bores  160  of the plate  159  as it flows through the passage  116 . The plate  159  can be integral with a portion of the fastener  154 , or can comprise a separate component configured to be disposed around the fastener  154 . As depicted, the plate  159  can define four bores  160  equally spaced apart circumferentially. However, the plate  159  can define more or less than four bores  160 . For example, the plate can define one, two, three, or more than four bores. Further, the bores may define non-equidistant spacing about the plate  159 . The number and spacing of the bores  160  can be defined based upon the desired flow characteristics of the adhesive as it enters the mixing chamber  82 . 
     The passage  116  can also be configured to receive a valve  166 . The valve  166  can be a one-way valve configured to allow the adhesive to flow through the passage  116  from the passage  62  to the mixing chamber  82 , but prevent the adhesive from flowing through the passage  116  from the mixing chamber  82  to the passage  62 . The valve  166  can comprise a spring  170  and a ball  174 , where the spring  170  is biased between the fastener  154  and the ball  174 . In operation, as the adhesive flows through the passage  62 , the force of the adhesive flow can press against the ball  174 , causing the spring  170  to compress towards the fastener  154  along the longitudinal direction  2 . This opens the passage  116 , and thus places the passage  62  in fluid communication with the mixing chamber  82 . In contrast, when no adhesive is flowing through the passage  62 , the spring  170  biases the ball  174  against a portion of the protrusion  112  of the stator  104 , thus blocking the passage  116  and causing the passage  62  to be out of fluid communication with the mixing chamber  82 . As a result, the valve  166  prevents adhesive located within the mixing chamber  82  from flowing upstream out of the mixing chamber  82  and back into the passage  62 . Though the valve  166  is specifically shown as comprising a spring  170  and a ball  174 , it is contemplated that other types of valves can be utilized. 
     Unlike the rotor  134  and the plate  146 , the stator  104  is rotationally coupled to the manifold  50 . In other words, the stator  104  is configured to remain stationary during a mixing operation, while the motor  24  is configured to rotate the rotor  134  and the plate  146  within the mixing chamber  82  relative to the stator  104 . To couple the stator  104  to the manifold  50 , the manifold  50  can define an elongate bore  117   a  (labeled in  FIG. 2A ) that is open to the mixing chamber  82  and configured to align with an elongate bore  117   b  (labeled in  FIGS. 2A, 4B ) that extends into the main body  108  of the stator  104  when the stator  104  is received within the mixing chamber  82 . A pin  118  can be disposed within the elongate bores  117   a ,  117   b , where engagement between the pin  118  and the manifold  50  and the stator  104  is configured to rotationally couple the stator  104  to the manifold  50 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 4A and 4B , mixing the adhesive and gas to create the solution can in large part be accomplished by teeth defined by various components of the mixing assembly  100  that extend into the mixing chamber  82 . For example, the stator  104  can define a plurality of teeth  119  extending from the stator  104  along the longitudinal direction  2 . When disposed within the mixing chamber  82 , the plurality of teeth  119  can extend along the longitudinal direction  2  away from the main body  108  of the stator  104  towards the rotor  134 . As the stator  104  is rotationally static relative to the manifold  50 , the plurality of teeth  119  can statically mix the adhesive and gas into the solution as the adhesive flows out of the passage  116  of the stator  104  through the bores  160  and the gas flows out of the gas input assembly  92  through gaps  132  defined between adjacent pairs of teeth  119 . 
     The plurality of teeth  119  defined by the stator  104  can define a particular arrangement. For example, the stator  104  can define a first ring of teeth  120 , a second ring of teeth  124 , and a third ring of teeth  128 , where each of the rings of teeth  120 ,  124 ,  128  defines a respective plurality of teeth extending from the stator  104  in a ring-like arrangement. For example, the first ring of teeth  120  can define an inner-most arrangement of teeth  122  that extend from the stator  104  along the longitudinal direction  2 . The second ring of teeth  124  can define an arrangement of teeth  126  that extend from the stator  104  along the longitudinal direction  2  and are concentrically positioned radially outwards from the teeth  122  of the first ring of teeth  120 . The third ring of teeth  128  can define an arrangement of teeth  130  that extend radially outwards from the stator  104  along the longitudinal direction  2  and are concentrically positioned radially outwards from the teeth  126  of the second ring of teeth  124 . As a result, the second ring of teeth  124  can be concentrically positioned between the first ring of teeth  120  and the third ring of teeth  128 . A channel  123  can be defined between adjacent ones of the rings of teeth. For example, a channel  123  can be disposed between the first and second rings to teeth  120  and  124 , and a channel  123  can be disposed between the second and third rings of teeth  124  and  128 . Each channel  123  can have a ring shape. Each channel  123  can be devoid of any teeth. In other embodiments, it is contemplated that the plurality of teeth  119  may define other arrangements, such as more or less than three rings of teeth or arrangements other than rings. 
     In the depicted embodiment, each of the first, second, and third rings of teeth  120 ,  124 ,  128  can define the same number of teeth  122 ,  126 ,  130 , respectively. As such, the teeth  122 ,  126 ,  130  of the first, second, and third rings  120 ,  124 ,  128  can define different sizes. The teeth  122 ,  126 , and  130  can each have a width along a circumferential direction. In the depicted embodiment, the teeth  122  of the first ring of teeth  120  can define the smallest width of the plurality of teeth  119 , the teeth  130  of the third ring of teeth  128  can define the largest width of the plurality of teeth  119 , and the teeth  126  of the second ring of teeth  124  can define widths that are greater than that of the teeth  122  but less than that of the teeth  130 . However, it is contemplated that each of the first, second, and third rings of teeth  120 ,  124 ,  128  can define different relative sizes and numbers of teeth as desired. Further, in other embodiments the teeth  122  of the first ring of teeth  120  can define different widths and/or other dimensions relative to each other, the teeth  126  of the second ring of teeth  124  can define different widths and/or dimensions relative to each other, and the teeth  130  of the third ring of teeth  128  can define different widths and/or other dimensions relative to each other. 
     As shown in  FIG. 4A , gaps  132  can be formed between adjacent ones of the plurality of teeth  119  so as to allow the solution to flow through the mixing chamber  82 . For example, a gap  132  can be defined between adjacent teeth  122  of the first ring of teeth  120 , a gap  132  can be defined between adjacent teeth  126  of the second ring of teeth  124 , and a gap  132  can be defined between adjacent teeth  130  of the third ring of teeth  128 . A respective gap  132  from each of the rings of teeth  120 ,  124 ,  128  can be radially aligned with each other, such that the solution has a plurality of unobstructed paths through the rings of teeth  120 ,  124 ,  128  as it exits the bores  160  of the plate  159 . However, it is contemplated that in other embodiments the gaps  132  defined between the teeth  122 ,  126 ,  130  of the rings of teeth  120 ,  124 ,  128  can be at least partially offset or staggered, such that the solution encounters some greater level of obstruction due to the plurality of teeth  119  of the stator  104  alone as it flows from the bores  160  of the plate  159 . 
     Now referring to  FIGS. 3 and 5 , the plate  146 , like the stator  104 , can define a plurality of teeth  189  extending from the plate  146  along the longitudinal direction  2 . When disposed within the mixing chamber  82 , the plurality of teeth  189  can extend along the longitudinal direction  2  away from the rotor  134  towards the stator  104 . Accordingly, the plurality of teeth  189  extend along the longitudinal direction  2  in an opposing direction to the plurality of teeth  119  of the stator  104 . At least some of the teeth  189  of the plate  146  can be disposed between teeth  119  of the stator  104 . Similarly, at least some of the teeth  119  of the stator  104  can be positioned between teeth  189  of the plate  146 . As the plate  146  is rotationally coupled to the rotor  134 , the plurality of teeth  189  can actively mix the adhesive and the gas into the solution as the gas flows out of the passage  116  of the stator  104  through the bores  160  and the gas flows out of the gas input assembly  92  through gaps  191  defined between each adjacent two teeth  189 . As the plate  146  rotates, at least some of the teeth  189  of the plate  146  can rotate between teeth of the stator  104 . 
     The plurality of teeth  189  defined by the plate  146  can define a particular arrangement. For example, the plate  146  can define a first ring of teeth  190 , a second ring of teeth  194 , and a third ring of teeth  198 , where each of the rings of teeth  190 ,  194 ,  198  defines a respective plurality of teeth extending from the plate  146  in a ring-like arrangement. For example, the first ring of teeth  190  can define an inner-most arrangement of teeth  192  that extend from the plate  146  along the longitudinal direction  2 . The second ring of teeth  194  can define an arrangement of teeth  196  that extend from the plate  146  along the longitudinal direction  2  and are concentrically positioned radially outwards from the teeth  192  of the first ring of teeth  190 . The third ring of teeth  198  can define an arrangement of teeth  199  that extend radially outwards from the plate  146  along the longitudinal direction  2  and are concentrically positioned radially outwards from the teeth  196  of the second ring of teeth  194 . As a result, the second ring of teeth  194  can be concentrically positioned between the first ring of teeth  190  and the third ring of teeth  198 . A channel  193  can be defined between adjacent ones of the rings of teeth. For example, a channel  193  can be disposed between the first and second rings to teeth  192  and  194 , and a channel  193  can be disposed between the second and third rings of teeth  194  and  198 . Each channel  123  can have a ring shape. Each channel  123  can be devoid of any teeth. In other embodiments, it is contemplated that the plurality of teeth  189  may define other arrangements, such as more or less than three rings of teeth or arrangements other than rings. 
     In the depicted embodiment, each of the first, second, and third rings of teeth  190 ,  194 ,  198  can define the same number of teeth  192 ,  196 ,  199 , respectively. As such, the teeth  192 ,  196 ,  199  of the first, second, and third rings  190 ,  194 ,  198  can define different sizes. For example, the teeth  122 ,  126 , and  130  can each have a width along a circumferential direction. In the depicted embodiment, the teeth  192  of the first ring of teeth  190  can define the smallest width of the plurality of teeth  189 , the teeth  199  of the third ring of teeth  198  can define the largest width of the plurality of teeth  189 , and the teeth  196  of the second ring of teeth  194  can define widths that are greater than that of the teeth  192  but less than that of the teeth  199 . However, it is contemplated that each of the first, second, and third rings of teeth  190 ,  194 ,  198  can define different relative sizes and numbers of teeth as desired. Further, in other embodiments the teeth  192  of the first ring of teeth  190  can define different widths and/or other dimensions relative to each other, the teeth  196  of the second ring of teeth  194  can define different widths and/or dimensions relative to each other, and the teeth  199  of the third ring of teeth  198  can define different widths and/or other dimensions relative to each other. 
     As shown in  FIG. 5 , gaps  191  can be formed between adjacent ones of the plurality of teeth  189  so as to allow the solution to flow through the mixing chamber  82 . For example, a gap  191  can be defined between adjacent teeth  192  of the first ring of teeth  190 , a gap  191  can be defined between adjacent teeth  196  of the second ring of teeth  194 , and a gap  191  can be defined between each adjacent teeth  199  of the third ring of teeth  198 . A respective gap  191  from each of the rings of teeth  190 ,  194 ,  198  can be radially aligned with each other, such that the solution has a plurality of unobstructed paths through the rings of teeth  190 ,  194 ,  198  as it exits the bores  160  of the plate  159 . However, it is contemplated that in other embodiments the gaps  191  defined between the teeth  192 ,  196 ,  199  of the rings of teeth  190 ,  194 ,  198  can be at least partially offset of staggered, such that the solution encounters some greater level of obstruction due to the plurality of teeth  189  of the plate  146  alone as it flows from the bores  160  of the plate  159 . 
     When the mixing assembly  100  is disposed within the mixing chamber  82 , the stator  104  and the plate  146  can be disposed adjacent to each other, such that adhesive and gas flowing into the mixing chamber  82  flows through the passage  116  of the stator  104 , and then outwards along a plane defined by the lateral and vertical directions  4 ,  6  to the periphery of the mixing chamber  82 , as shown in  FIGS. 2A and 2B . As the solution flows between the stator  104  and the plate  146 , the interaction between the plurality of teeth  119  of the stator  104  and the plurality of teeth  189  of the plate  146  can mix the solution. This can be amplified by the relative positioning between the plurality of teeth  119  and the plurality of teeth  189 . As the plurality of teeth  119  extend away from the stator  104  towards the plate  146  while the plurality of teeth  189  extend away from the plate  146  towards the stator  104  when the mixing assembly  100  is arranged within the mixing chamber  82 , the rings of teeth  120 ,  124 ,  128  of the stator  104  can be positioned such that they are substantially aligned with the rings of teeth  190 ,  194 ,  198  of the plate  146  in a plane defined by the lateral and vertical directions  4 ,  6 , i.e., the plane along which fluid flows between the stator  104  and the plate  146 . Thus, the teeth of the stator  104  and the teeth of the plate  146  can be aligned in a plane that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A such that the plane intersects the teeth of the stator  104  and the teeth of the plate  146 . 
     Each channel  193  of the plate  146  can receive a corresponding ring of teeth of the stator  104 . Similarly, each channel  123  of the stator  104  can receive a corresponding ring of teeth of the plate  146 . For example, the first ring of teeth  120  of the stator  104  can be positioned in the channel  193  between the first and second rings of teeth  190  and  194  of the plate  146 . The second ring of teeth  194  of the plate  146  can be positioned in the channel  123  between the first and second rings of teeth  120  and  124  of the stator  104 . The second ring of teeth  124  of the stator  104  can be positioned in the channel  193  between the second and third rings of teeth  194  and  198  of the plate  146 . The third ring of teeth  198  of the plate  146  can be positioned in the channel  123  between the second and third rings of teeth  124  and  148  of the stator  104 . 
     Thus, the first ring of teeth  190  of the plate  146  can be positioned inwards from the first ring of teeth  120  of the stator  104  with respect to a radial direction. The first ring of teeth  120  of the stator  104  can be positioned inwards from the second ring of teeth  194  of the plate  146  with respect to the radial direction and outwards from the first ring of teeth  190  of the plate  146  with respect to the radial direction. The second ring of teeth  194  of the plate  146  can be positioned inwards from the second ring of teeth  124  of the stator  104  with respect to the radial direction and outwards from the first ring of teeth  120  of the stator  104  with respect to the radial direction. The second ring of teeth  124  of the stator  104  can be positioned inwards from the third ring of teeth  198  of the plate  146  with respect to the radial direction and outwards from the second ring of teeth  194  of the plate  146  with respect to the radial direction. The third ring of teeth  198  of the plate  146  can be positioned inwards from the third ring of teeth  128  of the stator  104  with respect to the radial direction and outwards from the second ring of teeth  124  of the stator  104  with respect to the radial direction. The third ring of teeth  128  of the stator  104  can be positioned outwards from each of the rings of teeth  190 ,  194 ,  198  of the plate  146  with respect to the radial direction. As the stator  104  is rotationally coupled to the manifold  50  while the plate  146  is rotationally coupled to the rotor  134 , in operation the plurality of teeth  189  of the plate  146  are configured to rotate while the plurality of teeth  119  of the stator  104  remain static. This mix of both active and static mixing can aid in mixing the solution as the solution flows between the stator  104  and the plate  146  to the periphery of the mixing chamber  82 . 
     Like the stator  104  and the plate  146 , the rotor  134  can define a plurality of teeth  178  configured to aid in mixing the solution. Now referring to  FIGS. 6-8 , the plurality of teeth  178  can extend radially outwards from the outer surface  135  of the rotor  134 . As a result, unlike the teeth  119 ,  189  of the stator  104  and plate  146 , respectively, the plurality of teeth  178  of the rotor  134  extend from the outer surface  135  along the plane defined by the lateral and vertical directions  4 ,  6 . The plurality of teeth  178  can be arranged along the outer surface  135  of the rotor  134  in a formation of columns and rows, where each column can extend substantially along the longitudinal direction  2 , while each row can extend circumferentially about the outer surface  135  of the rotor along the plane defined by the lateral and vertical directions  4 ,  6 . However, the columns and rows of the plurality of teeth can be alternatively oriented relative to the longitudinal, lateral, and vertical directions  2 ,  4 ,  6  as desired. Each two adjacent teeth  178  in each row of teeth  178  can define a gap  187  therebetween, where the solution is configured to flow through each gap  187  along the length of the rotor  134 . 
     As depicted, the rotor  134  can include a first column  182   a  of teeth  178 , a second column  182   b  of teeth  178 , a third column  182   c  of teeth  178 , . . . up to an n th  column of teeth  178 . In one embodiment, the rotor  134  can define between 60 and 130 columns of teeth  178 . In another embodiment, the rotor  134  can define between 70 and 120 columns of teeth  178 . Further, the rotor  134  can define between 80 and 110 columns of teeth  178 . The rotor  134  can also define between 90 and 100 columns of teeth  178 . 
     Additionally as depicted the rotor  134  can include a first row  186   a  of teeth  178 , a second row  186   b  of teeth  178 , a third row  186   c  of teeth  178 , . . . up to an n th  row of teeth  178 . In one embodiment, the rotor  134  can define between 10 and 50 rows of teeth  178 . In another embodiment, the rotor  134  can define between 15 and 45 rows of teeth  178 . Further, the rotor  134  can define between 20 and 40 rows of teeth  178 . The rotor  134  can also define between 25 and 35 rows of teeth  178 . 
     In the depicted embodiment, the rotor  134  can include 58 columns of teeth  178  and 15 rows of teeth  178 . As a result, the rotor  134  depicted can include 870 teeth  178 . However, it is contemplated that in other embodiments, the rotor  134  can include less than 870 teeth  178 . For example, the rotor  134  can include at least 400 teeth  178 . Additionally, the rotor  134  can include at least 500 teeth  178 . Further, the rotor  134  can include at least 600 teeth. The rotor  134  can also include at least 700 teeth  178 . In other embodiments, the rotor  134  can include at least 800 teeth  178 . 
     It is also contemplated that in other embodiments, the rotor  134  can include more than 870 teeth  178 . For example, the rotor  134  can include at least 1,000 teeth  178 . Additionally, the rotor  134  can include at least 1,500 teeth  178 . Further, the rotor  134  can include at least 2,000 teeth. The rotor  134  can also include at least 2,500 teeth  178 . In other embodiments, the rotor  134  can include at least 3,000 teeth  178 . In one specific example, the rotor  134  can include  96  columns of teeth  178  and 30 rows of teeth  178 . As a result, the rotor can include 2,880 teeth  178 . The number of teeth  178  extending from the rotor  134  represents a greater number of teeth than included in rotors of conventional mixing assemblies. This creates more parallel paths for the solution to travel between the teeth  178 , thus lowering the pressure drop of the solution as it flows through the mixing chamber  82 . Further, the number of teeth  178  allows the diameter of the rotor  134  to be larger than conventional rotors, thus lowering the rotational speed at which the rotor  134  must be rotated in order to achieve adequate mixing. The speed at which the rotor  134  rotates to achieve adequate mixing of the solution will be described further below. 
     The ability to include an increased number of teeth  178  extending from the rotor can be driven by the decreased size of each individual ones of the teeth  178 . Continuing with  FIGS. 6-8 , the structure of each of the teeth  178  will be described. Each one of the teeth  178  can define a body  200  that extends from a base  200   a  at the outer surface  135  to a tip  200   b  opposite the base  200   a . The body  200  can define a height H measured from the base  200   a  to the tip  200   b . In one embodiment, the height H is less than or equal 0.20 inches, such as less than or equal to 0.19 inches, such as less than or equal to 0.18 inches, such as less than or equal to 0.17 inches, such as less than or equal to 0.16 inches, such as less than or equal to 0.15 inches, such as less than or equal to 0.14 inches, such as less than or equal to 0.13 inches, such as less than or equal to 0.12 inches, such as less than or equal to 0.11 inches, such as less than or equal 0.10 inches, such as less than or equal to 0.9 inches, such as less than or equal to 0.8 inches, such as less than or equal to 0.7 inches. This relatively shorter height H of the body  200  of each of the teeth  178  aids in allowing more teeth  178  to extend from the outer surface  135  of the rotor  134 , thus allowing the rotor  134  to have a greater diameter. 
     The body  200  of each of the teeth  178  can substantially define a trapezoidal prism. However, it is contemplated that the body could define other shapes, such as a cone, pyramid, rectangular prism, etc. The body  200  can define a front surface  204   a , a rear surface  204   b  opposite the front surface  204   a  along the longitudinal direction  2 , a first side surface  204   c , and a second side surface  204   d  opposite the first side surface  204   c  along a circumferential direction. The first and second side surfaces  204   c ,  204   d  can by offset from each other by an angle Θ. In one embodiment, the angle Θ can be between 10 degrees and 50 degrees. The angle Θ can also be between 10 degrees and 45 degrees. Further, the angle Θ can be between 10 degrees and 40 degrees. Additionally, the angle Θ can be between 10 degrees and 35 degrees. Further, the angle Θ can be between 10 degrees and 30 degrees. Additionally, the angle Θ can be between 10 degrees and 35 degrees. In one specific example, the angle Θ can be 20 degrees. In another specific example, the angle Θ can be 30 degrees. 
     In addition to including more teeth  178  than in conventional mixing assemblies, the teeth  178  can define smaller cross-sectional profiles than other conventional mixing teeth. As a result, the rotor  134  can maximize the ratio of the surface area A T  of the front surface  204   a  of the teeth  178  to the cross-sectional area A G  of each gap  187 . The surface area A T  and the cross-sectional area A G  can both me measured within a plane defined by the lateral and vertical directions  4 ,  6 . Specifically, the cross-sectional area A G  of each gap  187  can be measured from one tooth  178  to the adjacent tooth  178 , and from the base  200   a  of each tooth  178  to the tip  200   b  of each tooth  178 . The surface area A T  of the front surface  204   a  of the teeth  178  can be less than 0.010 square inches, such as less than 0.0095 square inches, such as less than 0.0090 square inches, such as less than 0.0085 square inches, such as less than 0.0080 square inches, such as less than 0.0075 square inches, such as less than 0.0070 square inches, such as less than 0.0065 square inches, such as less than 0.0060 square inches, such as less than 0.0055 square inches, such as less than 0.0050 square inches, such as less than 0.0045 square inches, such as less than 0.0040 square inches, such as less than 0.0035 square inches, such as less than 0.0030 square inches, such as less than 0.0025 square inches. The cross-sectional area A G  of each gap 187 can be greater than 0.0035 square inches, such as greater than 0.004 square inches, such as greater than 0.005 square inches, such as greater than 0.0060 square inches, such as greater than 0.0070 square inches, such as greater than 0.0080 square inches, such as greater than 0.0090 square inches, such as greater than 0.0100 square inches, such as greater than 0.011 square inches, such as greater than 0.012 square inches, such as greater than 0.013 square inches, such as greater than 0.014 square inches, such as greater than 0.015 square inches, such as greater than 0.016 square inches. The ratio of the surface area A T  of the front surface 204 a  to the cross-sectional area A G  of the gap  187  can be less than 0.60, such as less than 0.55, such as less than 0.50, such as less than 0.45. 
     In operation, as shown in  FIGS. 2A and 2B , the adhesive can enter the mixing system  10  through the flow meter  70 , flow through the input  54 , and flow through the passage  62  to the passage  116  of the stator  104 . Alternatively, the adhesive can enter the mixing system  10  through the input  54  and flow through the passage  62 , flow through a flow meter  70  disposed along the passage  62 , and flow to the passage  116  of the stator  104 . When pumped at a sufficient flow rate, the solution can actuate the valve  166  so as to open the passage  116  and allow the solution to flow through the passage  116 , through the bores  160  of the plate  159 , and into the mixing chamber  82 . Likewise, the gas can flow through the gas input assembly  92  and into the mixing chamber  82 . Once in the mixing chamber  82 , the solution comprising the adhesive and gas flows along a plane defined by the lateral and vertical directions  4 ,  6  outwards between the stator  104  and the plate  146 . As stated previously, the motor  24  is configured to rotate the rotor  134  and plate  146  within the mixing chamber  82  about a longitudinal axis A. As a result, when flowing between the stator  104  and plate  146 , the solution is mixed by the interaction of static teeth  119  of the stator  104 , as the stator  104  is stationary relative to the manifold  50 , and the moving teeth  189  of the plate  146 , as the plate  146  is rotationally fixed to the rotor  134 . After flowing past the stator  104  and plate  146 , the solution flows along the longitudinal direction  2  along the outer surface  135  of the rotor  134  between the teeth  178 , specifically between the gaps  187  defined between adjacent teeth  178 . The motor  24  is configured to rotate the rotor  134  at a rotational speed as controlled by the controller  32  so as to effectively mix the solution into a homogenous solution devoid of gas bubbles. After flowing the length of the mixing chamber  82  around the rotor  134 , the solution flows through the output passage  84  and the static mixers  250  positioned in the output passage  84 , which will be discussed below, and to the output  58 , where the solution flows to a dispenser. 
     As described above, the design of the rotor  134 , and specifically the teeth  178  of the rotor  134 , maximizes the number of teeth  178  extending from the rotor  134  and minimizes the ratio between the surface area A T  of the front surface  204   a  of the teeth  178  to the cross-sectional area A G  of the gaps  187  defined between two adjacent teeth  178 . The design of the teeth  178  also allows the diameter of the rotor  134  to be increased, thus allowing the motor  24  to rotate the rotor  134  at lower rotational speeds and still achieve a high shear rate of the solution. For example, the motor  24  can be configured to rotate the rotor  134  at less than 100 revolutions per minute (RPM) such that the rotor  134  mixes the solution at a shear rate of greater than 100 reciprocal seconds. In one embodiment, the motor  24  can be configured to rotate the rotor  134  at less than 75 RPM such that the rotor  134  mixes the solution at a shear rate of greater than 100 reciprocal seconds. Additionally, the motor  24  can be configured to rotate the rotor  134  at less than 100 RPM such that the rotor  134  mixes the solution at a shear rate of greater than 120 reciprocal seconds. The motor  24  can also be configured to rotate the rotor  134  at less than 50 RPM to achieve any of the shear rates described above. The motor  24  can also be configured to rotate the rotor  134  at 10 RPM or less to achieve any of the shear rates described above. Further, the motor  24  can be configured to rotate the rotor  134  at less than any of the rotational speeds described above to achieve a shear rate in the solution greater than 140 reciprocal seconds. Shear rate is the velocity gradient measured across the diameter of a fluid-flow channel, or the rate of change of velocity at which one layer of fluid passes over an adjacent layer. The shear rates described above are estimated shear rates ignoring the teeth  178 . Accordingly, these share rates are the average shear rate between the outer surface  135  of the rotor  134  and the stationary components of the mixing system  10 , such as the manifold  50 . As these shear rates are only estimates, errors due to the selection of dimensions for various components of the mixing system  10  are negligible. 
     As stated above, with reference to  FIGS. 2B, 8, and 9 , a plurality of static mixers  250  can be disposed within the output passage  84  for statically mixing the solution flowing through the output passage  84 . In the depicted embodiment, two static mixers  250  are disposed within the output passage  84  in series, such that the solution must flow through each static mixer  250  in sequence after flowing through the mixing chamber  82  and before reaching the output  58 . However, more or less than two static mixers  250  can be positioned within the output passage  84  in other embodiments. Though the components of one static mixer  250  will be described, its components may be representative of each static mixer included in the mixing system  10 . The static mixer  250  can include a base  254  that defines a passage  258  extending therethrough along the longitudinal direction  2 , as well as a plurality of outlets  262  extending from the passage  258  to the outer surface of the base  254 . The base  254  can define the portion of the static mixer  250  that engages the manifold  50  so as to secure the static mixer  250  within the output passage  84 . A cap  266  can be disposed over a portion of the base  254 , and can be secured to the base  254  through threaded engagement, snap-fit, slot and groove engagement, etc. The cap  266  can define a plurality of inputs  270  extending through the body of the cap  266  so as to receive a flow of the solution therethrough. A cylindrical screen  274  can be positioned between the cap  266  and the base  254 , such that the cap  266  secures the screen  274  within the static mixer  250 . In operation, when the static mixer  250  is positioned within the output passage  84 , the static mixer  250 , and particularly the screen  274 , can be configured to break up large gas bubbles that still exist in the solution after passing through the mixing chamber  82 . The screen  274  can comprise a mesh cylinder defining a plurality of small holes extending therethrough, such that large gas bubbles are broken up as the solution flows through the screen  274 . As shown by the arrows in  FIG. 9 , the solution can flow through the inputs  270  of the cap  266  from the output passage  84 , through the screen  274 , into the passage  258 , and out the outlets  262  of the base  254  back into the output passage  84 . 
     While various inventive aspects, concepts and features of the inventions may be described and illustrated herein as embodied in combination in the exemplary embodiments, these various aspects, concepts and features may be used in many alternative embodiments, either individually or in various combinations and sub-combinations thereof. Unless expressly excluded herein all such combinations and sub-combinations are intended to be within the scope of the present inventions. Still further, while various alternative embodiments as to the various aspects, concepts, and features of the inventions—such as alternative materials, structures, configurations, methods, circuits, devices and components, software, hardware, control logic, alternatives as to form, fit and function, and so on—may be described herein, such descriptions are not intended to be a complete or exhaustive list of available alternative embodiments, whether presently known or later developed. Additionally, even though some features, concepts or aspects of the inventions may be described herein as being a preferred arrangement or method, such description is not intended to suggest that such feature is required or necessary unless expressly so stated. Still further, exemplary or representative values and ranges may be included to assist in understanding the present disclosure; however, such values and ranges are not to be construed in a limiting sense and are intended to be critical values or ranges only if so expressly stated. Moreover, while various aspects, features, and concepts may be expressly identified herein as being inventive or forming part of an invention, such identification is not intended to be exclusive, but rather there may be inventive aspects, concepts, and features that are fully described herein without being expressly identified as such or as part of a specific invention, the scope of the inventions instead being set forth in the appended claims or the claims of related or continuing applications. Descriptions of exemplary methods or processes are not limited to inclusion of all steps as being required in all cases, nor is the order that the steps are presented to be construed as required or necessary unless expressly so stated. While the invention is described herein using a limited number of embodiments, these specific embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the invention as otherwise described and claimed herein. The precise arrangement of various elements and order of the steps of articles and methods described herein are not to be considered limiting.