Patent Publication Number: US-9841255-B2

Title: Intelligent holster spacer

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     There are numerous different types of implements (for example, flashlights, weapons, tools, accessories, and the like) that are commonly carried or worn on an individual&#39;s person for convenient access, typically by a holster supported at the individual&#39;s waist by a belt or another type of body-engaging strap, harness, etc. As individuals strive to optimize control and utilization of body worn equipment, (for example weapons used by law enforcement), there is an increased desire for real-time notifications, data collection, monitoring, and control. It will be appreciated that solutions to provide such additional functionality require customizability and flexibility due to the wide range of different sizes and shapes of tools and weapons and their corresponding holsters. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The accompanying figures, where like reference numerals refer to identical or functionally similar elements throughout the separate views, together with the detailed description below, are incorporated in and form part of the specification, and serve to further illustrate embodiments of concepts that include the claimed invention, and explain various principles and advantages of those embodiments. 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a holster assembly including a holster spacer in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view of the holster assembly of  FIG. 1 , with the holster removed to further illustrate the holster spacer and a mounting interface thereof. 
         FIG. 3  is an exploded assembly view of the holster spacer of  FIGS. 1 and 2 , removed from a belt loop adapter. 
         FIG. 4  is a top view of a holster spacer in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 5  is a left side view of the holster spacer of  FIG. 4 . 
         FIG. 6  is a front view of the holster spacer of  FIG. 4 . 
         FIG. 7  is a right side view of the holster spacer of  FIG. 4 . 
         FIG. 8  is a rear view of the holster spacer of  FIG. 4 . 
         FIG. 9  is a first cross-section view of the holster spacer of  FIG. 4 . 
         FIG. 10  is a second cross-section view of the holster spacer of  FIG. 4 . 
         FIG. 11  is an exploded assembly view of the holster spacer of  FIG. 4 . 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective view of the internals of the holster spacer of  FIG. 4 . 
         FIG. 13  is a of the holster spacer of  FIG. 4 , with a switch cover removed. 
         FIG. 14  is a rear view of a holster spacer in accordance with some embodiments, having a cover removed to illustrate an internal cavity containing a sensor and associated electronic circuitry. 
         FIG. 15  is a first perspective view of the holster spacer of  FIG. 14 . 
         FIG. 16  is a second perspective view of the holster spacer of  FIG. 14 . 
         FIG. 17  is a top view of the holster spacer of  FIG. 14 . 
         FIG. 18  is a front view of the holster spacer of  FIG. 14 . 
         FIG. 19  is a right side view of the holster spacer of  FIG. 14 . 
         FIG. 20  is a rear view of the holster spacer of  FIG. 14 . 
         FIG. 21  is a cross-section view of the holster spacer of  FIG. 14 , taken along line  21 - 21  of  FIG. 20 . 
         FIG. 22  is a perspective view illustrating the internals of the holster spacer of  FIG. 14 . 
         FIG. 23  is an exploded assembly view of the holster spacer of  FIG. 14 . 
         FIG. 24  is a left side view of a holster assembly for a weapon, including the holster spacer of  FIG. 14 . 
         FIG. 25  is a front view of the holster assembly of  FIG. 24 . 
         FIG. 26  is a right side view of the holster assembly of  FIG. 24 . 
         FIG. 27  is a bottom view of the holster assembly of  FIG. 24 . 
         FIG. 28  is a perspective view of the holster assembly of  FIG. 24 . 
         FIG. 29  is a rear view of the holster assembly of  FIG. 24 . 
         FIG. 30  is a cross-section view of the holster assembly, taken along line  30 - 30  of  FIG. 29 . 
         FIG. 31  is a schematic front view of a holster spacer in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 32  is a schematic perspective view of a holster spacer in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 33  is a schematic front view of the holster spacer of  FIG. 32 . 
         FIG. 34  is a perspective view of a holster spacer having a user interface in accordance with some embodiments, the holster spacer incorporated with a holster assembly for a weapon. 
         FIG. 35  is a front view of the holster spacer of  FIG. 34 . 
         FIG. 36  is a front view of a holster spacer in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 37  is a front view of a holster spacer in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 38  is a front view of a holster spacer in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 39  is a right side view of the holster spacer of  FIG. 38 . 
         FIG. 40  is a rear view of the holster spacer of  FIG. 38 . 
         FIG. 41  is an exploded assembly view of the holster spacer of  FIG. 38 . 
         FIG. 42  is a perspective view illustrating the internals of the holster spacer of  FIG. 38 . 
         FIG. 43  is a perspective view of a holster assembly in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 44  is an exploded view of the holster assembly of  FIG. 43 . 
         FIG. 45  is a front view of the holster assembly of  FIG. 43 , with the holster removed to illustrate the interface between the weapon and a sensor of the holster spacer. 
         FIG. 46  is a rear view of the holster spacer of  FIG. 43 . 
         FIG. 47  is a left side view of the holster spacer of  FIG. 43 . 
         FIG. 48  is a front view of the holster spacer of  FIG. 43 . 
         FIG. 49  is a rear view of the internals of the holster spacer of  FIG. 43 . 
         FIG. 50  is a perspective view of the internals of the holster spacer of  FIG. 43 . 
         FIG. 51  is a perspective view of a holster spacer in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 52  is a front view of the holster spacer of  FIG. 51 . 
         FIG. 53  is a right side view of the holster spacer of  FIG. 51 . 
         FIG. 54  is a bottom view of the holster spacer of  FIG. 51 . 
         FIG. 55  is a perspective view of a holster spacer in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 56  is a front view of the holster spacer of  FIG. 55 . 
         FIG. 57  is a right side view of the holster spacer of  FIG. 55 . 
         FIG. 58  is a bottom view of the holster spacer of  FIG. 55 . 
         FIG. 59  is a first perspective view of a holster assembly in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 60  is a second perspective view of the holster assembly of  FIG. 59 . 
         FIG. 61  is a front view of the holster assembly of  FIG. 59 , shown with a holstered weapon and a wearable component removed. 
     
    
    
     Skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding of embodiments of the present invention. 
     The apparatus and method components have been represented where appropriate by conventional symbols in the drawings, showing only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present invention so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     A holster spacer adaptable for use within a holster assembly including a wearable component and a separable holster supported by the wearable component. The holster spacer includes a wearable component-facing surface, a holster-facing surface opposite the wearable component-facing surface, a mounting interface, an internal cavity provided between the wearable component-facing surface and the holster-facing surface, and a sensor operable to detect a parameter relating to an implement positionable within the holster. 
       FIG. 1  illustrates a holster assembly  100  including a wearable component  102 , a holster  104  removably supported by the wearable component  102 , and a holster spacer  106  positioned at least partially between the wearable component  102  and the holster  104 . As shown, the wearable component  102  is a belt adapter having slits  108  for passage of a belt  110  or similar strap, harness, etc. However, the wearable component  102  can take a variety of different forms for coupling directly or indirectly (e.g., via a utility belt, a sling, a utility vest, a shirt or jacket epaulet, headgear, a leg shroud, or a strap) to a human body, and in some constructions, to other objects such as a vehicle interior or exterior. As shown in  FIG. 3 , the wearable component  102  includes a raised surface portion defining a holster mounting platform  111 . The holster mounting platform  111 , in the illustrative embodiment, has a T-shape. It will be appreciated that the holster mounting platform  111  can alternatively have any appropriate shape. 
     The holster  104  is illustrated as a gun holster that includes a receiving area shaped to securely receive a pistol  112 . However, the holster  104  can take a variety of different forms corresponding to a variety of different implements, including alternate types or styles of weapons and tools. As a non-limiting example, the holster  104  can be provided with a receiving area shaped and sized to secure: a conducted electrical weapon (CEW or “stun gun”), a flashlight, an electronic device, a communication device, a camera, handcuffs, an ammunition magazine, a pepper spray canister, or a knife. In addition, it should be noted that the illustrated holster design may take virtually any known form, including a pouch, cradle, carry case, etc. that may partially or fully enclose an implement while not in use. 
     The holster spacer  106  includes a wearable component-facing surface  116  and a holster-facing surface  118  opposite the wearable component-facing surface  116 . The wearable component-facing surface  116  and the holster-facing surface  118  can be flat, angled, or contoured to any desired shape. With some holster designs, the holster spacer  106  may be used between multiple layers of a holster. In some constructions, the holster spacer  106  can be used in addition to or as a direct replacement for a conventional passive spacer element commonly used to position the holster  104  at an increased distance from the wearable component  102 . For instance, the holster spacer  106  includes a mounting interface provided in the illustrated construction of  FIGS. 2 and 3  by a plurality of apertures including a first aperture  122 A, a second aperture  122 B, and a third aperture  122 C. The holster spacer  106  defines a thickness T to maintain a spacing distance between the holster mounting platform  111  ( FIG. 3 ) of the wearable component  102  and a surface  104 A of the holster  104  configured to face towards the wearable component  102  and the wearer when worn. In general, the holster spacer  106  may increase the spacing distance of the holster  104  away from the wearer to a more comfortable or convenient distance. A variety of the holster spacers  106  may be provided with different thicknesses T, for selection by the end user. 
     The first and second apertures  122 A,  122 B are provided adjacent a first end (e.g., an upper end adjacent the slits  108 ) of the holster spacer  106 , while the third aperture  122 C is provided adjacent a second end (e.g., a bottom end remote from the slits  108 ) of the holster spacer  106 . The first and second apertures  122 A,  122 B are spaced apart from each other along a first axis A, and the third aperture  122 C is equally spaced from each of the first and second apertures  122 A,  122 B and positioned along a second axis B that bisects the first axis A. A spacing distance C between the first and second apertures  122 A,  122 B along the first spacing axis A is less than a spacing distance D from the third aperture  122 C to the first and second apertures  122 A,  122 B. As shown in  FIGS. 1 through 3 , the holster spacer  106  can include multiple housing portions  106 A,  106 B, which can be provided as shell halves or as a main housing and cover. The apertures  122 A,  122 B,  122 C of the mounting interface can be provided through both of the housing portions  106 A,  106 B. As shown in  FIGS. 2 and 3 , a fastener  126  is provided for each of the first, second, and third apertures  122 A,  122 B,  122 C. As shown, each fastener  126  is a threaded fastener (i.e., screw, bolt, etc.) that extends through the wearable component  102  and the holster spacer  106  to engage the holster  104 , although one or more of the fasteners  126  may take other forms in other constructions. While not limiting, the diameter of each of the first, second, and third apertures  122 A,  122 B,  122 C can be between 0.154 in. and 0.221 in., such that they are configured to receive fasteners  126  such as #6, #8, or #10 machine screws, or metric counterparts. The wearable component  102  defines a mounting interface that matches that of the holster spacer  106 . In other words, the wearable component  102  includes first, second, and third apertures  128 A,  128 B,  128 C having the same spacing relationship as described above. Although not illustrated, an interior-facing side of the holster  104  also has a matching mounting interface. In other constructions, one or more fasteners securing the holster spacer  106  between the wearable component  102  and the holster  104  can include any one or more of: hook-and-loop fabric or strips, permanent or removable adhesive, and one or more magnets. 
     The holster spacer  106  further includes an internal cavity  132  provided between the wearable component-facing surface  116  and the holster-facing surface  118 . The holster spacer  106  includes a sensor  136  operable to detect the implement (e.g., the pistol  112  as illustrated) that is received by the holster  104 . For example, the sensor  136  can be a magnetic sensor. As shown, although not required in some constructions, the sensor  136  can be formed to project perpendicularly from the holster-facing surface  118 . However, in this design, the projected length of the sensor  136  does not increase the spacing distance between the wearable component  102  and the holster (provided by the thickness T) since the sensor  136  is received by a recess in the holster  104 . The recess can be a pocket, aperture, cutout, etc., which allows a tighter positional relationship between the pistol  112  and the sensor  136 . Electronic circuitry, including a power source  140  and a processor  142  in communication with the sensor  136 , is provided within the internal cavity  132 . Some or all of the electronic circuitry can be provided on a printed circuit board assembly  148 . As shown, the power source  140  may take the form of a primary battery, although other constructions provide the power source  140  as any one or more of: a primary battery, a rechargeable battery, a supercapacitor, and an energy harvesting circuit. During operation, the processor  142  is in communication with the sensor  136  to receive an output of the sensor  136 . The output of the sensor  136  can be communicated via one or more wires or wirelessly to the processor  142  for further transmission via a transceiver and/or storage within an on-board memory operable to store code instructions and data. The transceiver and memory may be provided as part of a communication module  150  on the printed circuit board assembly  148 . The communication module  150  can be provided as part of a daughter board on the printed circuit board assembly  148  with a transceiver such as a Bluetooth transceiver operable to communicate via the Bluetooth communication protocol (including optionally Bluetooth Smart, a low energy variant thereof, which may be referred to as Bluetooth LE). The communication module  150  can be an integrated circuit or module including the transceiver, a memory, a processor. An antenna  152  is positioned on the printed circuit board assembly  148  on or adjacent to the communication module. In other constructions, the transceiver is operable to communicate via any one of the following communication protocols: wireless local area network (WLAN or “WiFi”), near field communication (NFC), inductive communication, personal area network (PAN), wide area network (WAN), and body area network (BAN). In some constructions, the electronic circuitry within the holster spacer  106  includes wireless charging circuit operable to recharge one or more portable electronic items carried by the attached holster  104  or conversely have its own power source  140  be charged by an external wireless charging system. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , a wireless signal from the holster spacer  106  (in particular, from the transceiver therein) can be sent to a remote device  144 . As illustrated, the remote device  144  can be a paired personal electronic device such as a smart phone carried locally with the individual wearing the holster assembly  100 . In such constructions, the remote device may run an application specifically designed to monitor the status of the pistol  112  or other holstered implement via one or more sensed parameters sensed by the holster spacer  106 . If so enabled, the remote device  144  can communicate further to a remote computer, server, or database acting as a monitoring and/or control center. Such communication may be made in one-way or two-way fashion via an available land mobile network, cellular network or internet connection, for example. The remote device  144  may perform one or more of the following actions upon receiving a status change from the sensor  136 : launch an application, update an application, trigger an alert, trigger an alarm, trigger a notification, update a log, place a service request. 
     It has been described that the sensor within the holster spacer  106  is operable to detect the pistol  112 , or other holstered implement, which will be understood as the ability for the sensor to confirm presence, absence, and/or proximity of the pistol  112 . However, depending upon the particular holstered implement and the desired implementation, the holster spacer  106  can alternately or additionally include one or more other sensors detecting any one or more of the following states or parameters of the holstered implement: health, battery level, identity, authorization, temperature, history, trend, wear, use, weight/mass, and orientation. As a non-limiting list of examples, the illustrated sensor or other sensor(s) of the holster spacer  106  can include any one or more of: a magnetic sensor, a pressure sensor, an optical sensor, a mechanical sensor, a sonic sensor, an inertial sensor, an inductive sensor, a capacitive sensor, a resistive sensor, an electromagnetic sensor, a thermal sensor, a chemical sensor, and a biological sensor. In one example, for use with the pistol  112  or other firearm, a chemical sensor can be provided that is operable to detect gunpowder for identifying whether the pistol  112  has just been fired. Such a chemical sensor can be active on an ongoing basis, or can be activated upon the sensor  136  detecting removal of the pistol  112  from the holster  104 . In another example, the holster spacer  106  includes at least one sensor operable to detect an item state within a container, for example an amount of pepper spray, a charge level of a conducted electrical weapon, or a number of rounds in an ammunition magazine. 
     As shown in  FIG. 3  by a set of dashed lines, an imaginary envelope area  156  is defined by outside tangent lines connecting the first, second, and third apertures  122 A,  122 B,  122 C. In other constructions having different mounting interfaces, the imaginary envelope area  156  is generally defined as the area immediately encompassing the mounting interface, such as by straight connecting lines which do not meander between structures forming the mounting interface, and which do not intersect the structures forming the mounting interface. In the illustrated construction, at least a portion of each of the following are positioned within the imaginary envelope area  156 : the sensor  136 , the power source  140 , and the printed circuit board assembly  148 . However, in some constructions, one or all of the above-listed elements may be positioned partially or entirely outside of the imaginary envelope area  156 . 
       FIGS. 4 through 13  illustrate a holster spacer  206  according to another embodiment. Although not shown, it will be understood that the holster spacer  206  may be provided between a wearable component and a holster as part of a holster assembly similar to the holster assembly  100  as shown in  FIG. 1 . It is also noted that reference numbers for similar features and elements are kept in order, similar to those of  FIGS. 1 through 3 , but incremented by  100  (i.e.,  236  designates a sensor, whereas  136  designates the sensor in the earlier embodiment). The description of the holster spacer  206  of  FIGS. 4 through 13  focuses primarily on the features that are unique from the holster spacer  106  of  FIGS. 1 through 3  with the understanding that the holster spacer  206  can include any and all of the features disclosed above with reference to the holster spacer  106  of  FIGS. 1 through 3 , except where expressly prohibited. 
     The holster spacer  206  includes a wearable component-facing surface  216  and an opposite holster-facing surface  218 . Like the holster spacer  106  of  FIGS. 1 through 3 , the holster spacer  206  also includes a mounting interface including first, second, and third apertures  222 A,  222 B,  222 C. In fact, the layout of the first, second, and third apertures  222 A,  222 B,  222 C along the first and second axes A, B may be identical to that shown and described with respect to  FIGS. 1 through 3  such that the holster spacers  106 ,  206  are interchangeable. In other words, the spacing distances C, D and aperture diameters may be similar or identical. 
     Unlike the substantially uniform thickness T of the spacer  106  of  FIGS. 1 through 3 , the spacer  206  includes a first area having a first thickness T 1  and a second area having second thickness T 2 , greater than the first thickness T 1 . The sensor  236  of the holster spacer  206  projects outwardly from the holster-facing surface  218  in the area of the first thickness T 1  to define a third thickness T 3 . However, the sensor  236  can be received by a recess in the mating holster such that the effective spacing distance provided by the holster spacer  206  is equal to T 1 . All or a majority of the first area falls within the imaginary envelope area  256 , while all or a majority of the second area falls outside of the imaginary envelope area  256 . 
     The cross-section of  FIG. 9  illustrates a switch  264  located on the printed circuit board assembly  248  and operable to selectively establish and break power supply to the electronic circuitry from the power source  240 . The switch  264  is shown in further detail in  FIG. 13 . The switch  264  can be a slide switch or another suitable type of switch. The switch  264  is selectively accessible from the outside of the holster spacer  206  through an aperture  265 . The aperture  265  can be selectively closed by a removable cover  266  to prevent access to the switch  264 . The cover  266  may be constructed of a material at least partially transparent or translucent so as to permit passage of light. An indicator light such as a light emitting diode (not shown) can be positioned on the printed circuit board assembly  248  adjacent the switch  264  and operable to illuminate when the switch  264  is in an ON position. The indicator light may be selectively illuminated, or may change to a second color, when the communication module  250  is paired with a remote device as a means of confirmation to the user. The imaginary prismatic volume surrounding the antenna  252  on the printed circuit board assembly  248  represents an isolation area for avoiding interference of other components with the antenna  252 . 
     The cross-section of  FIG. 10  is taken directly through the sensor  236  and illustrates a sensor sleeve  237  secured to the housing portion  206 A that partially or fully covers the sensor  236 . The sensor sleeve  237  may be interchangeable with other similar sensor sleeves of alternate length for use with the same housing portion  206 A as a means for varying or adjusting the sensor depth perpendicular to the holster-facing surface  218 . The sensor sleeve  237  is further illustrated in the exploded assembly view of  FIG. 11 , which also shows that the connection between the housing portions  206 A,  206 B may be made with one or more fasteners. A gasket or adhesive  238  may be positioned between the housing portions  206 A,  206 B for mating and/or sealing.  FIG. 12  illustrates wires extended from the sensor  236  on one side of the printed circuit board assembly  248  to an opposite side of the printed circuit board assembly  248  where they are electrically and mechanically coupled thereto. 
       FIGS. 14 through 30  respectively illustrate a holster spacer  306  and a holster assembly  300  including the holster spacer  306 , according to another embodiment. The holster spacer  306  is provided between the wearable component  102  and a holster  304  shaped and sized for a different type of pistol  312  compared to the holster  104  and the pistol  112  of  FIG. 1 . Although no one particular type of wearable component is required, it should be noted that the wearable component  102  may be somewhat universal for use with a variety of holster spacers and holsters having a common mounting interface. Reference numbers for similar features and elements are kept in order, similar to those of  FIGS. 1 through 3 , but incremented by  200 . The description of the holster spacer  306  of  FIGS. 14 through 30  focuses primarily on the features that are unique from the holster spacers  106 ,  206  of  FIGS. 1 through 3  and  FIGS. 4 through 13 , respectively, with the understanding that the holster spacer  306  can include any and all of the features disclosed above with reference to the holster spacers  106 ,  206 , except where expressly prohibited. 
     The holster spacer  306  includes a sensor  336  that is located separate and spaced away from the internal cavity  332  that houses the electronic circuitry. Thus, the sensor location and type of sensor is flexible and independent of the electronic circuitry. As shown, the sensor  336  is positioned at least partially outside of the imaginary envelope area  356 , and in some cases may be positioned entirely outside of the imaginary envelope area  356 . However, a portion of the illustrated sensor  336  is also positioned within the imaginary envelope area  356 . The electronic circuitry is positioned partially or entirely outside of the imaginary envelope area  356 . For example, the power source  340 , and the printed circuit board assembly  348  (having the processor  342  and the transceiver  350  thereon) are located entirely outside of the imaginary envelope area  356 . In some constructions, the holster spacer  306  may provide an adjustable sensor location by providing multiple sensor mounts (e.g., pockets or recesses) or by providing an infinitely adjustable (e.g., sliding) mounting interface that allows the sensor  336  to be adjusted as desired and locked into position. The sensor  336  position may be adjustable in a plane parallel to the holster-facing surface  318 , and may also be adjustable for sensor depth in a direction perpendicular to the holster-facing surface  318  such that the relative distance from the sensor  336  to the pistol  312  can be adjusted. 
     The holster spacer  306  includes a user interface  370  in communication with a user input-output module of the processor (not shown). The user interface  370 , which may take a variety of forms, is shown to include an indicator light (e.g., a light emitting diode). The user interface  370  can be selectively illuminated to indicate a status of the holster spacer  306  (e.g., function status, operational mode, battery condition, etc.) and/or a status of the pistol  312  or other holstered implement. As shown in  FIG. 23 , a light pipe  373  can be provided to direct the light emitted from the indicator light on the printed circuit board assembly  348  to the outside of the housing portion  306 B. The user interface  370  can optionally include a touch screen or a separately provided display screen and control button(s). Alternatively or in addition to the indicator light, the user interface  370  can include any one or more of: a piezo buzzer, a speaker, a vibrator, and a haptic micro-electric-mechanical device. As shown, the user interface  370  is provided on a portion of the holster spacer  306  that is spaced away from the mounting interface and partially or fully exposed when the holster spacer  306  is coupled between the wearable component  102  and the holster  304  as shown in  FIGS. 24 through 30 . 
     Because the sensor  336  is spaced apart (e.g., on opposite sides of the mounting interface) from the internal cavity  332  containing the electronic circuitry, a length of wiring extends across the holster spacer  306  as shown in  FIGS. 22 and 23 . For example, a wiring channel is formed in the housing portion  306 A. A separate wiring cover  371  can be provided to enclose the wiring channel once the wires are passed during assembly. The wiring cover  371  may also cover a rear side of the pocket or recess that receives the sensor  336 . 
     As illustrated in  FIGS. 17 and 21 , the holster spacer  306  has a first area having a first thickness T 1  and a second area having second thickness T 2 , greater than the first thickness T 1 . All or a majority of the first area falls within the imaginary envelope area  356 , while all or a majority of the second area falls outside of the imaginary envelope area  356 . The sensor  336  of the holster spacer  306  projects outwardly from the holster-facing surface  318  in the area of the first thickness T 1  to define a third thickness T 3  that is at least 3, 4, or 5 times greater than the first thickness T 1 . However, the sensor  336  and sensor sleeve  337  can be received by a recess in the mating holster  304  such that the effective spacing distance provided by the holster spacer  306  is equal to T 1 . In cases where the objective of the user is not to add a substantial spacing distance, the first thickness T 1  can be kept minimal (6 mm or less, 4 mm or less) since the sensor  336  and the electronic circuitry are generally positioned outside the imaginary envelope area  356  as shown in  FIGS. 20 and 22 . 
       FIGS. 29 and 30  illustrate the positioning of the holster spacer  306 , and in particular the sensor  336 , with respect to the pistol  312 . As shown, the holster spacer  306  may be designed so that the sensor  336  is aligned in register with an axis of a barrel of the pistol  312  (i.e., an axis of the sensor  336  is perpendicular with and intersects an axis defined by the barrel). Where the operability of the sensor  336  depends on close proximity to the pistol  312  or other implement,  FIG. 30  illustrates that the tip of the sensor  336  may be nearly in contact with the pistol  312  (2 mm or less, 1 mm or less). The proximity of the sensor  336  to the pistol  312 , or sensor depth as expressed with respect to the holster-facing surface  318  can be adjusted as mentioned above by using an alternate sensor sleeve  337  while the remaining components are re-used, unchanged. In some constructions, the sensor depth can be adjusted by adding one or more spacers between the sensor  336  and the housing portion  306 A to control the ultimate distance of the sensor  336  and/or the sensor sleeve  337 . 
       FIG. 31  illustrates a holster spacer  406  according to another embodiment. Although not shown, it will be understood that the holster spacer  406  may be provided between a wearable component and a holster as part of a holster assembly similar to the holster assembly  100  as shown in  FIG. 1 . It is also noted that reference numbers for similar features and elements are kept in order, similar to those of  FIGS. 1 through 3 , but incremented by  300 . The description of the holster spacer  406  of  FIG. 31  focuses primarily on the features that are unique from the holster spacers  106 ,  206 ,  306  of  FIGS. 1 through 3 ,  FIGS. 4 through 13 , and  FIGS. 14 through 30 , respectively, with the understanding that the holster spacer  406  can include any and all of the features disclosed above with reference to the holster spacers  106 ,  206 ,  306 , except where expressly prohibited. 
     The holster spacer  406  includes a sensor  436  in the form of an inductive coil as shown, although other sensor types are optional, including those mentioned above. The sensor  436  is in communication with electronic circuitry as described above. For example, although not shown, the holster spacer  406  can include a power source and a communication module having a processor and optionally a transceiver. The electronic circuitry can be located in an area, indicated by the cross-hatching, at the first end of the holster spacer  406 , where the first and second apertures  422 A,  422 B are located. As shown, a width W of the holster spacer  406 , measured parallel to the first axis A, may have a maximum value at the first end in the area receiving the electronic circuitry, and the width W may decrease toward the second end where the third aperture  422 C is located. When used with a belt adapter as shown in  FIGS. 1 through 3 , the electronics layout of  FIG. 31  locates the electronic circuitry at a top end of the holster spacer  406 , for example, within the top third or a top quarter of a height H of the holster spacer  406 , measured parallel to the second axis B. Although a separate housing or housings may optionally be provided, the area of the holster spacer  406  as viewed perpendicular to both the first and second axes A, B may be entirely or substantially entirely occupied by a printed circuit board assembly  448  such that the first, second, and third apertures  422 A,  422 B,  422 C are formed directly in a substrate of the printed circuit board assembly  448 . 
       FIGS. 32 and 33  illustrate a holster spacer  506  according to another embodiment. Although not shown, it will be understood that the holster spacer  506  may be provided between a wearable component and a holster as part of a holster assembly similar to the holster assembly  100  as shown in  FIG. 1 . It is also noted that reference numbers for similar features and elements are kept in order, similar to those of  FIGS. 1 through 3 , but incremented by  400 . The description of the holster spacer  506  of  FIGS. 32 and 33  focuses primarily on the features that are unique from the holster spacers  106 ,  206 ,  306 ,  406  of  FIGS. 1 through 3 ,  FIGS. 4 through 13 ,  FIGS. 14 through 30 , and  FIG. 31 , respectively, with the understanding that the holster spacer  506  can include any and all of the features disclosed above with reference to the holster spacers  106 ,  206 ,  306 ,  406 , except where expressly prohibited. 
     The holster spacer  506  includes a sensor  536  in the form of a mechanical switch as shown, although other sensor types are optional, including those mentioned above. Although not required, the illustrated holster spacer  506  can be used with a holster sized and shaped to receive a conducted electrical weapon (not shown). The sensor  536  is in communication with electronic circuitry as described above. For example, although not shown, the sensor  536  can communicate with a communication module having a processor and optionally a transceiver. However, some or all of the electronic circuitry in communication with the sensor  536  may be positioned remotely, away from the holster spacer  506 . As such, the holster spacer  506  includes an electrical connector  560  (e.g., plug type) for establishing communication between the sensor  536  and remote electronic circuitry. The electrical connector  560  can be located in an area, indicated by the cross-hatching, at a side edge of the holster spacer  506 . Alternately, some or all of the electronic circuitry can be located on-board the holster spacer  506  in the cross-hatched area. Although a separate housing or housings may optionally be provided, the area of the holster spacer  506  as viewed perpendicular to both the first and second axes A, B may be entirely or substantially entirely occupied by a printed circuit board assembly  548  such that the first, second, and third apertures  522 A,  522 B,  522 C are formed directly in a substrate of the printed circuit board assembly  548 . 
       FIGS. 34 and 35  illustrate a holster assembly  600  including a holster spacer  606  according to another embodiment. The holster spacer  606  is provided between a wearable component  102  similar to that shown in  FIG. 1  a holster  604  shaped and sized for a different type of pistol  612  compared to the holsters  104 ,  304  and the pistols  112 ,  312  of  FIGS. 1 and 10 . It is also noted that reference numbers for similar features and elements are kept in order, similar to those of  FIGS. 1 through 3 , but incremented by  500 . The description of the holster spacer  606  of  FIGS. 34 and 35  focuses primarily on the features that are unique from the holster spacers  106 ,  206 ,  306 ,  406 ,  506  of  FIGS. 1 through 3 ,  FIGS. 4 through 13 ,  FIGS. 14 through 30 ,  FIG. 31 , and  FIGS. 32 through 33 , respectively, with the understanding that the holster spacer  606  can include any and all of the features disclosed above with reference to the holster spacers  106 ,  206 ,  306 ,  406 ,  506 , except where expressly prohibited. 
     The holster spacer  606  includes a user interface  670  in communication with a user input-output module of the processor (not shown). The user interface  670 , which may take a variety of forms, is shown to include an indicator light (e.g., a light emitting diode). The user interface  670  can be selectively illuminated to indicate a status of the holster spacer  606  (e.g., function status, operational mode, battery condition, etc.) and/or a status of the pistol  612  or other holstered implement. The user interface  670  can optionally include a touch screen or a separately provided display screen and control button(s). Alternatively or in addition to the indicator light, the user interface  670  can include any one or more of: a piezo buzzer, a speaker, a vibrator, and a haptic micro-electric-mechanical device. As shown, the user interface  670  is provided on a portion of the holster spacer  606  that is spaced away from the mounting interface and partially or fully exposed when the holster spacer  606  is coupled between the wearable component  102  and the holster  604 . Furthermore, the user interface  670  can be provided on a portion of the holster spacer  606  that is oriented at an angle from the portion of the holster spacer  606  having the mounting interface. The angle is greater than zero and up to 90 degrees (e.g., between 20 degrees and 60 degrees). Although not illustrated, it will be understood that the details of the sensor  636  and the electronic circuitry within the internal cavity  632  may be in accordance with any of the embodiments described herein. 
       FIG. 36  illustrates a holster spacer  706  according to another embodiment. Although not shown, it will be understood that the holster spacer  406  may be provided between a wearable component and a holster as part of a holster assembly similar to the holster assembly  100  as shown in  FIG. 1 . It is also noted that reference numbers for similar features and elements are kept in order, similar to those of  FIGS. 1 through 3 , but incremented by  600 . The description of the holster spacer  706  of  FIG. 36  focuses primarily on the features that are unique from the holster spacers  106 ,  206 ,  306 ,  406 ,  506 ,  606  of  FIGS. 1 through 3 ,  FIGS. 4 through 13 ,  FIGS. 14 through 30 ,  FIG. 31 ,  FIGS. 32 through 33 , and  FIGS. 34 through 35 , respectively, with the understanding that the holster spacer  706  can include any and all of the features disclosed above with reference to the holster spacers  106 ,  206 ,  306 ,  406 ,  506 ,  606 , except where expressly prohibited. 
     As shown in  FIG. 36 , the holster spacer  706  includes an internal cavity  732  for enclosing electronic circuitry in communication with the sensor  736 . The internal cavity  732  defines an axis of elongation E about which the internal cavity  732  has symmetry in whole or in part. The axis of elongation E is not parallel with the second axis B, which extends through and bisects the mounting interface of the holster spacer  706 , and further extends through the sensor  736  as shown. Rather, the axis of elongation E is angled to approach the second axis B in a direction from the first end having the first and second apertures  722 A,  722 B toward the second end having the third aperture  722 C (i.e., a downward direction as illustrated). The sensor  736  is a mechanical switch as shown, but other alternatives are optional as disclosed herein. The angle of skew between the second axis B and the axis of elongation E can be less than 15 degrees and may be configured to match the contour of a designated holster (not shown). 
       FIG. 37  illustrates a holster spacer  806  according to another embodiment. Although not shown, it will be understood that the holster spacer  806  may be provided between a wearable component and a holster as part of a holster assembly similar to the holster assembly  100  as shown in  FIG. 1 . It is also noted that reference numbers for similar features and elements are kept in order, similar to those of FIGS.  1  through  3 , but incremented by  700 . The description of the holster spacer  806  of  FIG. 37  focuses primarily on the features that are unique from the holster spacers  106 ,  206 ,  306 ,  406 ,  506 ,  606 ,  706  of  FIGS. 1 through 3 ,  FIGS. 4 through 13 ,  FIGS. 14 through 30 ,  FIG. 31 ,  FIGS. 32 through 33 ,  FIGS. 34 through 35 , and  FIG. 36 , respectively, with the understanding that the holster spacer  806  can include any and all of the features disclosed above with reference to the holster spacers  106 ,  206 ,  306 ,  406 ,  506 ,  606 ,  706 , except where expressly prohibited. 
     As shown in  FIG. 37 , the holster spacer  806  includes an internal cavity  832  for enclosing electronic circuitry in communication with the sensor  836 . The internal cavity  832  defines an axis of elongation E about which the internal cavity  832  has symmetry in whole or in part. The axis of elongation E is not parallel with the second axis B, which extends through and bisects the mounting interface of the holster spacer  806 , and further extends through the sensor  836  as shown. Rather, the axis of elongation E is angled to approach the second axis B in a direction from the second end having the third aperture  722 C toward the first end having the first and second apertures  722 A,  722 B (i.e., an upward direction as illustrated). The sensor  836  is a mechanical switch as shown, but other alternatives are optional as disclosed herein. The angle of skew between the second axis B and the axis of elongation E can be less than 15 degrees and may be configured to match the contour of a designated holster (not shown). 
       FIGS. 38 through 42  illustrate a holster spacer  906  according to another embodiment. Although not shown, it will be understood that the holster spacer  906  may be provided between a wearable component and a holster as part of a holster assembly similar to the holster assembly  100  as shown in  FIG. 1 . It is also noted that reference numbers for similar features and elements are kept in order, similar to those of  FIGS. 1 through 3 , but incremented by  800 . The description of the holster spacer  906  of  FIGS. 38 through 42  focuses primarily on the features that are unique from the holster spacers  106 ,  206 ,  306 ,  406 ,  506 ,  606 ,  706 ,  806  of  FIGS. 1 through 3 ,  FIGS. 4 through 13 ,  FIGS. 14 through 30 ,  FIG. 31 ,  FIGS. 32 through 33 ,  FIGS. 34 through 35 ,  FIG. 36 , and  FIG. 37 , respectively, with the understanding that the holster spacer  906  can include any and all of the features disclosed above with reference to the holster spacers  106 ,  206 ,  306 ,  406 ,  506 ,  606 ,  706 ,  806 , except where expressly prohibited. 
     The holster spacer  906  includes a sensor  936  that has a sensing portion located on the same side as the second housing portion  906 B that is the smaller housing portion covering the electronic circuitry. Although not shown behind the cover  966 , a switch  964  is operable to selectively establish and break power supply to the electronic circuitry from the power source  940 . The first housing portion  906 A is shaped to include a sensor cavity  976  ( FIG. 41 ) adjacent to the internal cavity  932  provided for the electronic circuitry. An access hole  977  is provided through the first housing portion  906  to provide for passing wiring between the sensor cavity  976  and the internal cavity  932  and also providing a point of exterior access for manipulating the wires during assembly. For example, the access hole  977  may be used to engage the wires and pass them from a first side of the printed circuit board assembly  948  to a second side of the printed circuit board assembly  948  where they are attached thereto as shown in  FIG. 42 . An additional access hole cover  978  is provided to enclose the access hole  977  during use. 
       FIGS. 43 through 50  illustrate a holster spacer  1006  and a holster assembly according to another embodiment. It is noted that reference numbers for similar features and elements are kept in order, similar to those of  FIGS. 1 through 3 , but incremented by  900 . The description of the holster spacer  1006  of  FIGS. 43 through 50  focuses primarily on the features that are unique from the holster spacers  106 ,  206 ,  306 ,  406 ,  506 ,  606 ,  706 ,  806 ,  906  of  FIGS. 1 through 3 ,  FIGS. 4 through 13 ,  FIGS. 14 through 30 ,  FIG. 31 ,  FIGS. 32 through 33 ,  FIGS. 34 through 35 ,  FIG. 36 ,  FIG. 37 , and  FIGS. 38 through 42 , respectively, with the understanding that the holster spacer  1006  can include any and all of the features disclosed above with reference to the holster spacers  106 ,  206 ,  306 ,  406 ,  506 ,  606 ,  706 ,  806 ,  906 , except where expressly prohibited. 
     The holster assembly  1000  includes a wearable component  1002  and a holster  1004 , which as illustrated, is designed for a conducted electrical weapon  1012  having a grip and a barrel. As with some of the other holster spacers disclosed herein, the internal cavity  1032  housing the electronic circuitry is positioned generally away from the mounting interface and outside the imaginary envelope area  1056  to avoid interference with the engagement between the holster  1004  and the wearable component  1002 . The holster spacer  1006  also includes a separate sensor cavity  1076  ( FIGS. 47, 49 and 50 ) spaced away from the mounting interface and outside the imaginary envelope area  1056  on an opposite side from the internal cavity  1032 . The sensor cavity  1076  is located in an area of the first housing portion  1006 A that is extended in a direction substantially away from, in particular perpendicular from, a plane defined by the holster spacer  1006  within the mounting interface. As such, a wraparound switch housing is formed by this arrangement. 
     Furthermore, as shown in  FIG. 45 , the sensor  1036  is configured to interface with the conducted electrical weapon  1012  on an underside of a barrel rather than on a side of the conducted electrical weapon  1012  facing toward the wearable component  1002  or toward the user when worn.  FIG. 44  illustrates a sensor aperture  1081  formed in a side wall of the holster  1004  for partially or fully receiving the sensor  1036 . The sensor aperture  1081  can provide direct physical contact between a portion of the sensor  1036  (e.g., a mechanical switch actuator) and the conducted electrical weapon  1012 . An additional housing portion  1006 C can be provided to enclose the sensor  1036  within the sensor cavity  1076 . A separate wiring cover  1071  can be provided to enclose the sensor wiring within a wiring channel in the first housing portion  1006 A. 
     Unlike the wearable component  102  depicted in earlier drawings, the wearable component  1002  is a clamp-type adapter that does not include slits requiring passage of a belt. Rather, in the form of the clamp-type adapter, the wearable component  1002  includes two portions or halves that are pivotally coupled and biased together (e.g., by a spring, not shown). The clamp-type adapter may optionally include a positive locking device to securely maintain a closed position in addition to a simple biasing force toward the closed position. As a clamp-type adapter, the holster assembly  1000  may be more quickly put into use on a wearer&#39;s belt or clothing or removed therefrom. 
       FIGS. 51 through 54  illustrate a holster spacer  1106  according to another embodiment. Although not shown, it will be understood that the holster spacer  1106  may be provided between a wearable component and a holster as part of a holster assembly similar to the holster assembly  100  as shown in  FIG. 1 . It is also noted that reference numbers for similar features and elements are kept in order, similar to those of  FIGS. 1 through 3 , but incremented by  1000 . The description of the holster spacer  1106  of  FIGS. 51 through 54  focuses primarily on the features that are unique from the holster spacers  106 ,  206 ,  306 ,  406 ,  506 ,  606 ,  706 ,  806 ,  906 ,  1006  of  FIGS. 1 through 3 ,  FIGS. 4 through 13 ,  FIGS. 14 through 30 ,  FIG. 31 ,  FIGS. 32 through 33 ,  FIGS. 34 through 35 ,  FIG. 36 ,  FIG. 37 ,  FIGS. 38 through 42 , and  FIGS. 43 through 50 , respectively, with the understanding that the holster spacer  1106  can include any and all of the features disclosed above with reference to the holster spacers  106 ,  206 ,  306 ,  406 ,  506 ,  606 ,  706 ,  806 ,  906 ,  1006  except where expressly prohibited. 
     The holster spacer  1106  includes a mounting interface which differs from those disclosed in the foregoing figures. The mounting interface includes at least one aperture, however, the apertures are not circular as in the earlier embodiments, and are not provided in a T-shape. Rather, a first aperture  1122 A in the form of an elongated slot is formed at a first (e.g., upper) end of the holster spacer  1106  and a second aperture  1122 B in the form of an elongated slot is formed at a second (e.g., lower) end of the holster spacer  1106 . As shown, each aperture  1122 A,  1122 B defines a corresponding elongation axis A 1 , A 2 . In the illustrated construction, the elongation axes A 1 , A 2  are parallel, although other orientations are possible, including arcuate slots and/or the use of one or more slots with one or more circular apertures to form a mounting interface. By using elongated slots, it may be possible to manufacture the holster spacer  1106  with the capability of use in a wider variety of different holster assemblies, including holsters and/or wearable components of various different manufacturers, having different mounting interfaces. 
     The first housing portion  1106 A of the holster spacer  1106  defines an outer perimeter within which the first and second apertures  1122 A,  1122 B are provided. An imaginary envelope area  1156  is also defined by the apertures  1122 A,  1122 B in accordance with the foregoing description. Although not shown, electronic circuitry in accordance with any of the above embodiments may be provided within the outer perimeter and within the imaginary envelope area  1156 . However, a power source  1140  may be located partially or entirely outside of the imaginary envelope area  1156  and/or the outer perimeter. As illustrated, the power source  1140  includes a cylindrical-shaped primary cell battery received within a housing portion that is entirely outside the imaginary envelope area  1156  and the outer perimeter defined by the first housing portion  1106 A. Thus, excessive thickness in the area of the mounting interface can be avoided. The second housing portion  1106 B may be removably coupled to the first housing portion  1106 A to enclose the power source  1140  and to allow replacement thereof. In the illustrated arrangement, the second housing portion  1106 B containing the power source  1140  is free or exposed on five of its six sides. As such, the power source  1140  does not contribute to a first thickness T 1  in a first area within the imaginary envelope area  1156 , or a second thickness T 2  in a second area within the imaginary envelope area  1156  of the holster spacer  1106 . 
       FIGS. 55 through 58  illustrate a holster spacer  1206  according to another embodiment. Although not shown, it will be understood that the holster spacer  1206  may be provided between a wearable component and a holster as part of a holster assembly similar to the holster assembly  100  as shown in  FIG. 1 . It is also noted that reference numbers for similar features and elements are kept in order, similar to those of  FIGS. 1 through 3 , but incremented by  1100 . The description of the holster spacer  1206  of  FIGS. 55 through 59  focuses primarily on the features that are unique from the holster spacers  106 ,  206 ,  306 ,  406 ,  506 ,  606 ,  706 ,  806 ,  906 ,  1006 ,  1106  of  FIGS. 1 through 3 ,  FIGS. 4 through 13 ,  FIGS. 14 through 30 ,  FIG. 31 ,  FIGS. 32 through 33 ,  FIGS. 34 through 35 ,  FIG. 36 ,  FIG. 37 ,  FIGS. 38 through 42 ,  FIGS. 43 through 50 , and  FIGS. 51 through 54 , respectively, with the understanding that the holster spacer  1206  can include any and all of the features disclosed above with reference to the holster spacers  106 ,  206 ,  306 ,  406 ,  506 ,  606 ,  706 ,  806 ,  906 ,  1006 ,  1106 , except where expressly prohibited. 
     The holster spacer  1206  includes a mounting interface as described above with reference to the holster spacer  1106 , but which differs from those disclosed in the other foregoing figures. In summary, rather than three circular apertures in a T-shaped pattern, first and second apertures  1222 A,  1222 B are provided in the form of elongated slots defining corresponding elongation axes A 1 , A 2 . Potential advantages and variations of this arrangement are as described above. 
     Although not shown, electronic circuitry in accordance with any of the above embodiments may be provided within an outer perimeter defined by a first housing portion  1206 A and within an imaginary envelope area  1256  defined by the first and second apertures  1222 A,  1222 B. However, a power source  1240  may be located partially or entirely outside of the imaginary envelope area  1256  and/or the outer perimeter. As illustrated, the power source  1240  includes a disk-shaped coin cell or button cell battery received within a housing portion  1206 B that is partially outside the imaginary envelope area  1256  and the outer perimeter defined by the first housing portion  1206 A. The second housing portion  1206 B may be integrally provided or permanently coupled to the first housing portion  1206 A to enclose the power source  1240  and the holster spacer  1206  may be designed for disposal or recycling after use. In other constructions, the housing portions  1206 A,  1206 B are detachable for periodic replacement of the power source  1240 . In the illustrated arrangement, the second housing portion  1206 B containing the power source  1240  is free or exposed on five of its six sides. Although the excess thickness is small, the power source  1240  does not contribute to a first thickness T 1  in a first area within the imaginary envelope area  1256 , or a second thickness T 2  in a second area within the imaginary envelope area  1256  of the holster spacer  1206 . 
       FIGS. 59 through 61  illustrate a holster spacer  1306  and a holster assembly  1300  according to another embodiment. It is noted that reference numbers for similar features and elements are kept in order, similar to those of  FIGS. 1  through  3 , but incremented by  1100 . The description of the holster spacer  1306  of  FIGS. 60 and 61  focuses primarily on the features that are unique from the holster spacers  106 ,  206 ,  306 ,  406 ,  506 ,  606 ,  706 ,  806 ,  906 ,  1006 ,  1106 ,  1206  of  FIGS. 1 through 3 ,  FIGS. 4 through 13 ,  FIGS. 14 through 30 ,  FIG. 31 ,  FIGS. 32 through 33 ,  FIGS. 34 through 35 ,  FIG. 36 ,  FIG. 37 ,  FIGS. 38 through 42 ,  FIGS. 43-50 ,  FIGS. 51 through 54 , and  FIGS. 55 through 58 , respectively, with the understanding that the holster spacer  1306  can include any and all of the features disclosed above with reference to the holster spacers  106 ,  206 ,  306 ,  406 ,  506 ,  606 ,  706 ,  806 ,  906 ,  1006 ,  1106 ,  1206 , except where expressly prohibited. 
     Similar to that of  FIG. 43 , the wearable component  1302  can be a clamp-type adapter, and the above description is hereby referenced. The wearable component  1302  is shown in an open configuration in  FIGS. 59 and 60 .  FIG. 61  illustrates the layout of the sensor  1336  and the corresponding electronic circuitry on the holster spacer  1306  in use with the holster  1304  having a pistol  1312  therein. The electronic circuitry can be positioned near a side edge of the holster spacer  1306  in order to provide convenient access to any one or more of: the power source  1340 , the communication module  1350 , and a user interface including for example, a power switch, or an indicator light. All or substantially all of the area of the holster spacer  1306  may be occupied by the printed circuit board assembly  1348  such that the first, second, and third apertures  1322 A,  1322 B,  1322 C are provided directly in a substrate of the printed circuit board assembly  1348 . 
     Although each of the illustrated embodiments show electronic circuitry including a processor located within the holster spacer, it is noted that any of the illustrated embodiments may be modified to locate a sensor on-board the holster spacer with substantially no additional electronic components, whereby the sensor signal is received and processed by one or more circuits located remotely from the holster spacer. 
     In the foregoing specification, specific embodiments have been described. However, one of ordinary skill in the art appreciates that various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth in the claims below. Accordingly, the specification and figures are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of present teachings. 
     The benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any element(s) that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as a critical, required, or essential features or elements of any or all the claims. The invention is defined solely by the appended claims including any amendments made during the pendency of this application and all equivalents of those claims as issued. 
     Moreover in this document, relational terms such as first and second, top and bottom, and the like may be used solely to distinguish one entity or action from another entity or action without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions. The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “has”, “having,” “includes”, “including,” “contains”, “containing” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises, has, includes, contains a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. An element proceeded by “comprises . . . a”, “has . . . a”, “includes . . . a”, “contains . . . a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises, has, includes, contains the element. The terms “a” and “an” are defined as one or more unless explicitly stated otherwise herein. The terms “substantially”, “essentially”, “approximately”, “about” or any other version thereof, are defined as being close to as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, and in one non-limiting embodiment the term is defined to be within 10%, in another embodiment within 5%, in another embodiment within 1% and in another embodiment within 0.5%. The term “coupled” as used herein is defined as connected, although not necessarily directly and not necessarily mechanically. A device or structure that is “configured” in a certain way is configured in at least that way, but may also be configured in ways that are not listed. 
     It will be appreciated that some embodiments may be comprised of one or more generic or specialized processors (or “processing devices”) such as microprocessors, digital signal processors, customized processors and field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) and unique stored program instructions (including both software and firmware) that control the one or more processors to implement, in conjunction with certain non-processor circuits, some, most, or all of the functions of the method and/or apparatus described herein. Alternatively, some or all functions could be implemented by a state machine that has no stored program instructions, or in one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), in which each function or some combinations of certain of the functions are implemented as custom logic. Of course, a combination of the two approaches could be used. 
     Moreover, an embodiment can be implemented as a computer-readable storage medium having computer readable code stored thereon for programming a computer (e.g., comprising a processor) to perform a method as described and claimed herein. Examples of such computer-readable storage mediums include, but are not limited to, a hard disk, a CD-ROM, an optical storage device, a magnetic storage device, a ROM (Read Only Memory), a PROM (Programmable Read Only Memory), an EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory) and a Flash memory. Further, it is expected that one of ordinary skill, notwithstanding possibly significant effort and many design choices motivated by, for example, available time, current technology, and economic considerations, when guided by the concepts and principles disclosed herein will be readily capable of generating such software instructions and programs and ICs with minimal experimentation. 
     The Abstract of the Disclosure is provided to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the foregoing Detailed Description, it can be seen that various features are grouped together in various embodiments for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed embodiments require more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive subject matter lies in less than all features of a single disclosed embodiment. Thus the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separately claimed subject matter.