Patent Publication Number: US-2019178008-A1

Title: Sash and frame latching assembly and methods for same

Description:
CLAIM OF PRIORITY 
     This patent application claims the benefit of priority of Deboer et al. U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/596,542, entitled “SASH AND FRAME LATCHING ASSEMBLY AND METHODS FOR SAME,” filed on Dec. 8, 2017 (Attorney Docket No. 1261.175PRV), which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. 
    
    
     COPYRIGHT NOTICE 
     A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent files or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever. The following notice applies to the software and data as described below and in the drawings that form a part of this document: Copy right Marvin Lumber and Cedar Company, d/b/a Marvin Windows and Doors, Inc. of Warroad Minn. All Rights Reserved. 
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     This document pertains generally, but not by way of limitation, to fenestration assemblies and latching systems for fenestration assemblies. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Fenestration latch mechanisms lock and unlock fenestration assemblies to facilitate the movement of panels, such as sashes, doors or the like. Hung windows, such as double hung windows, are one example of a fenestration assembly. Hung windows include a fenestration frame and at least one sash slidable within the frame. In some examples, the latch assembly includes hardware installed on the check rails, for instance the check rails of each of first and second sashes. The hardware includes a latch coupled with the check rail of the first sash and a keeper coupled with the check rail of the second sash. With the first and second sashes in the closed position the latch is rotated into engagement with the keeper. The engagement of the latch and the keeper prevents movement of the sashes from the closed position. 
     In other examples, hung windows include latch mechanisms mounted on the check rail, and the hardware remotely operates one or more latch bolts movably coupled with the sash proximate the check rail. For instance a cord is coupled between the latch bolts and the hardware. Operation of the hardware moves the latch bolts into the sash (e.g., withdraws the latch bolts into the check rail) and permits movement of the sash. 
     SUMMARY 
     The present inventors have recognized, among other things, that a problem to be solved can include providing access to latch mechanisms at locations remote from sash check rails. In at least some examples fenestration assemblies are especially large (e.g., having heights of five feet, six feet or more) or are installed with the check rail latch mechanisms at elevated or difficult to reach locations (remote locations), such as great rooms, large living rooms, foyers, behind counters and sinks or the like. It is difficult for some users to reach and operate latch mechanisms in large fenestration assemblies or with fenestration assemblies having the latch mechanism at remote locations. This is especially frustrating for elderly and handicapped users. In other examples, tools are needed to reach and operate remote latch mechanisms including, but not limited to, extension poles, manipulators or the like. 
     Further, in some examples building codes mandate that latch mechanisms are installed at easy to reach locations (i.e., near the floor of a room) that frustrate the traditional installation of a fenestration assembly. The check rail latch mechanism is installed relatively near to the floor (in an example, within 48 inches) to comply with building codes, and the sill of the fenestration assembly is accordingly installed at an even lower elevation proximate to the floor in a non-traditional manner. Schools are one example of buildings that may require latch mechanisms near the floor to facilitate egress by children. 
     The present subject matter helps provide a solution to this problem with one or more latch assemblies configured for coupling between sashes and frames. One example of a latch assembly includes a keeper ridge coupled with a fenestration frame, for instance, near a sill or header of the frame in contrast to the check rails of the sashes. The latch assembly further includes a latch mechanism coupled with a rail of a sash opposed to the check rail (e.g., a rail proximate the respective sill or header and remote from the check rail). The latch mechanism is partially concealed within the rail and includes a handle. Operation of the handle moves a latch arm having a locking face. In a locked configuration the locking face is aligned with the keeper ridge and holds the sash static within the frame. In an unlocked configuration the handle is moved and the latch accordingly misaligns the locking face with the keeper ridge. The sash is thereby released for movement within the frame. The latch assembly is positioned remote relative to the check rails, and in at least one example is provided at an easy to reach and operate location, proximate the sill of the fenestration frame and a lower rail of the sash opposed to the check rail. Accordingly, the latch assembly is accessible and readily operated (and the window opened and closed) by the elderly, handicapped, children or the like. Further, a fenestration assembly in a remote location (elevated or a difficult to reach location) including the latch assembly is readily locked and unlocked (and opened and closed) because the latch assembly is readily accessible compared to check rail mounted latch assemblies. 
     The present inventors have further recognized, among other things, that another problem to be solved can include concealing latch assemblies and correspondingly enhancing the aesthetic appeal of fenestration assemblies. In some examples, fenestration assemblies include latch assemblies installed on a rail (e.g., externally or with significant portions of the assembly externally visible). For instance, hardware including a latch is coupled over a rail and is interfit between the rail and the frame to interact with a feature of the frame. External mounted hardware decreases the aesthetic appeal of the fenestration assembly by covering or obscuring woodwork, decorative trim or the like. 
     The present subject matter helps provide a solution to this problem with one or more latch assemblies concealed within rails of the fenestration assembly. In one example a keeper ridge of the latch assembly is provided in the fenestration frame. For instance, the keeper ridge is within the fenestration frame, concealed within a channel of the frame or concealed by a trim piece of the frame. The latch mechanism is housed within the rail, and a latch arm including a locking face is concealed by one or more of the rail or the frame (while the sash is closed). Further, the locking face aligns with the keeper ridge in a locked and closed configuration to hold the sash static. The aligned locking face and keeper ridge are concealed by the fenestration assembly (e.g., the rail and optionally the frame). Further still, with the sash open the latch mechanism is concealed within the rail while an operator, such as a handle, projects from the rail in a manner similar to a finger pull. Optionally, only a portion of the latch arm including the locking face projects from the rail while the remainder of the latch mechanism (e.g., the remainder of the latch arm, an operator arm or the like) is concealed by the rail. 
     This overview is intended to provide an overview of subject matter of the present patent application. It is not intended to provide an exclusive or exhaustive explanation of the invention. The detailed description is included to provide further information about the present patent application. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       In the drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, like numerals may describe similar components in different views. Like numerals having different letter suffixes may represent different instances of similar components. The drawings illustrate generally, by way of example, but not by way of limitation, various embodiments discussed in the present document. 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a fenestration assembly including a latch assembly coupled between a sash and a fenestration frame. 
         FIG. 2A  is a first perspective view of the latch assembly of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 2B  is a second perspective view of the latch assembly of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  is an exploded view of the latch assembly of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 4  is a perspective view of a keeper coupled with the fenestration frame. 
         FIGS. 5A-5C  are cross sectional views of the latch assembly of  FIG. 1  in locked, unlocked, and resetting configurations. 
         FIG. 6  is a perspective view of another example of a latch assembly. 
         FIG. 7  is an exploded view of the latch assembly of  FIG. 6 . 
         FIG. 8  is a perspective view of another example of a latch assembly. 
         FIG. 9  is an exploded view of the latch assembly of  FIG. 8 . 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective view of an additional example of a latch assembly. 
         FIG. 11  is an exploded view of the latch assembly of  FIG. 10 . 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective view of another example of a fenestration assembly including a latch assembly coupled between a second sash and a fenestration frame. 
         FIG. 13  is a perspective view of the latch assembly of  FIG. 12 . 
         FIG. 14  is an exploded view of the latch assembly of  FIG. 12 . 
         FIG. 15A  is a cross sectional view of the latch assembly of  FIG. 13  in a locked configuration. 
         FIG. 15B  is a cross sectional view of the latch assembly of  FIG. 13  in an unlocked configuration. 
         FIG. 16  is a block diagram showing one example of a method for operating a fenestration assembly. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a fenestration assembly  100  including a latch assembly  180  coupled between a sash  140  and a fenestration frame  110 . The fenestration frame  110  is configured for installation within structures, including (but not limited to) a single-family residence, multi-family residence, municipal building office building, warehouse or the like. In an example, the fenestration assembly  100  includes at least one of a casement window, single hung window, double hung window, awning window, sliding window or the like coupled with a wall of a structure. As shown, the fenestration frame  110  includes a sill  120  and a header  130 . 
     One or more sashes  140 , for instance a first sash  140 A and a second sash  140 B, are coupled to the fenestration frame  110 , and the one or more sashes are moveable relative to the fenestration frame  110  between an open position and a closed position. In one example, the sashes  140  are configured to slide relative to the fenestration frame  110 . In another example, the sashes  140  are rotatable relative to the fenestration frame  110  (e.g., the sash  140 A may rotate between an open position and a closed position, for instance as a casement window, awning window or the like). 
     In the example shown in  FIG. 1 , the sashes  140  include a check rail  150  and an opposed rail  160  (shown in solid and dashed lines) spaced from the check rail  150  by one or more stiles  170 . The opposed rail  160  is opposed to (e.g., sp aced from) the check rail  150 . The one or more sashes  140  optionally include a pane of glass. In an example, the pane of glass is located between (and supported by) the check rail  150 , the opposed rail  160 , and the stiles  170 . 
     As described in greater detail herein, the latch assembly  180  is coupled between the sashes  140  (e.g., the second sash  140 B) and the frame  110 . The latch assembly  180  includes a locked and an unlocked configuration. In the locked configuration, the sashes  140  (e.g., the first sash  140 A) are held static relative to the frame  120  (e.g., the sash  140 A is locked in the closed position). 
       FIG. 2A  is a first perspective view of the latch assembly  180  of  FIG. 1 . The latch assembly  180  includes a handle  200  to change the configuration of the latch assembly  180  between the locked and unlocked configurations. For instance, the handle  200  is operated (e.g., by a user, an actuator, or the like) and moved to reposition the handle  200  within the latch assembly  180  and accordingly change the configuration of the latch assembly  180 . In another example, the handle  200  is moved in a parallel direction to movement of the sash  140 A. Accordingly movement of the handle  200  correspondingly unlocks and moves the sash  140 A with a single motion. For instance, the handle  200  is used as a finger pull to unlock the latch assembly  180  and to move the sash  200  relative to the frame  110 . 
     In one example, the latch assembly  180  includes an assembly housing  210  that encloses one or more components of the latch assembly  180 . For instance, the components of the latch assembly  180  enclosed by the assembly housing  210  are collectively referred to as a latch mechanism  250 , and the latch mechanism is included in the sash  140 . In some examples, the assembly housing  210  facilitates installation of the latch assembly  180  into a corresponding recess within the fenestration assembly (e.g., a recess within the rail  160  shown in  FIG. 1 ). The latch assembly  180 , for instance the latch mechanism  250 , is readily concealed within the rail to minimize interruption of the aesthetic appearance of the window. An escutcheon  220  is optionally included with the latch assembly  180  to provide an aesthetic cover to the latch assembly  180  (e.g., to cover the recess within the rail  160 ). In still other examples, an enclosure such as the assembly housing  210  is provided integrally by the sash  140 . For instance, the sash  140  includes a routed recess, molded recess or the like configured to enclose (and conceal) components of the latch assembly  180 . 
     As described in greater detail herein, the latch assembly  180  includes a latch arm  230  that cooperates with other components of the latch assembly  180  (e.g., the keeper  400  shown in  FIG. 4 ) to selectively lock, unlock, and automatically lock (e.g., autolock) the sashes  140 . The latch arm  230  is selectively aligned with the opposed feature of the fenestration frame  110  such as a keeper, keeper ridge or the like to hold the sashes  140  static relative to the frame  110 . For instance, the latch arm  230  optionally includes a locking face  231  that is aligned with the frame  110  to hold the sashes  140  static (e.g., inhibit movement, such as sliding rotation, tilting or the like) relative to the frame  110 . 
       FIG. 2B  is a second perspective view of the latch assembly  180  of  FIG. 1  showing another side of the assembly  180  relative to  FIG. 2A . As shown in  FIG. 2B , the latch assembly  180  optionally includes an operator  240  as a component of the latch mechanism  250 . In some examples, the handle  200  is coupled with the operator  240 , and the operator  240  is interposed between the handle  200  and the latch arm  230  to couple (e.g., interlink) the handle  200  with the latch arm  230 . In one example, the operator  240  is a protrusion (e.g., arm, lever, paddle, member, or the like) extending from the handle  200 , and the operator  240  is configured to engage with, and disengage from, the latch arm  230  to change the configuration of the locking assembly  230  between locked and unlocked configurations, as discussed herein. 
     Referring again to  FIG. 2B , the assembly housing  210  optionally encloses one or more components of the latch assembly  180 . In one example, the assembly housing  210  defines a first pivot recess  211  with an arm pivot  235  of the latch arm  230  received therein. As shown, the shape of the pivot recess  211  corresponds to the shape of the arm pivot  235  to facilitate rotation of the latch arm  230  relative to the assembly housing  210 . In another example, the assembly housing  210  defines a second pivot recess  212  that receives an operator pivot  245  of the operator  240 . The pivot recess  212  optionally has a corresponding shape to the shape of the operator pivot  245  to facilitate rotation of the operator  240  relative to the assembly housing  210 . 
     In an example, the operator  240  is selectively engaged and disengaged with the latch arm  230 . Operation of the handle  200  (e.g., manipulation by a user) causes rotation of the arm pivot  235  at the pivot recess  211  and causes movement of the latch arm  230 . For instance, the operator pivot  245  is located at a first end  241  of the operator  240  and is within the second pivot recess  212 . The operator pivot  245  is optionally located on a first side of (e.g., above) the latch pivot  235 . The handle  200  is selectively moved (e.g., in a direction parallel to movement of the sashes  140 ), and the operator pivot  245  rotates within the pivot recess  212 . Accordingly, movement of the handle  200  rotates the operator  240  as the operator pivot  245  rotates within the pivot recess  212 . In this example, a second end  242  of the operator  240  is coupled with the latch arm  230 , and movement of the operator  240  causes a corresponding movement (e.g., rotation, deflection, articulation, or the like) of the latch arm  230  through this coupling. As a result, movement of the handle  200  causes the latch arm  230  to move relative to the latch assembly  180 . As described herein the coupling of the operator  240  with the latch arm  230  includes a selective engagement and disengagement therebetween. In an example, the second end  242  of the operator  240  is located between the latch pivot  235  and the locking face  231 , for instance on a second side of (e.g., below) the latch pivot  235 . The second end of the operator  240  selectively engages with, or disengages from, the latch arm  230  between the latch pivot  235  and the locking face  231 . 
     As further described herein, the latch assembly  180  optionally autolocks one or more of the sashes  140  (e.g., one or more of the first or second sashes  140 A,  140 B) to hold one or more of the sashes  140  static relative to the fenestration frame  110 . Referring again to  FIG. 2B , the latch arm  230  optionally includes a resetting face  232  (e.g., a tapered surface, inclined surface, or the like). The resetting face  232  is configured for engagement with a frame feature (e.g., one or more of the fenestration frame  110 , the keeper  400  shown in  FIG. 4  or the like) to slide over the frame feature, for instance during closing of the sash  140 . The engagement of the resetting face  232  with the frame feature biases the locking face  231  of the locking arm  230  toward misalignment with the frame feature through rotation of the latch arm  230  and accordingly the locking face  231  travels past the frame feature. In this example, after the resetting face  232  moves beyond the frame feature (e.g., with closing of the sash  140 ), the latch arm  230  moves the locking face  231  into alignment with the frame feature to automatically lock the sash  140  and hold the sash  140  static relative to the frame  110 . As described herein, the latch arm  230  is biased with a biasing element, such as a leaf spring coil spring torsion spring elastomer or the like to bias the locking face  231  toward alignment with the frame feature. 
       FIG. 3  is an exploded view of the latch assembly  180  of  FIG. 1 . As previously described, the latch assembly  180  includes the latch mechanism  250 . As described herein, the escutcheon  220  is optionally included in the latch assembly  180  to provide an aesthetic cover to the latch assembly  180 . For instance, the escutcheon  220  covers a recess within the rail  160  (shown in  FIG. 1 ) for the latch assembly  180  and optionally one or more components of the latch mechanism  250 . Optionally, the escutcheon  220  includes one or surface features to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the assembly  180  and the fenestration assembly  100 . For instance, the escutcheon  220  includes surface features, such as embossed features (e.g., decorative engravings or the like) or decorative domes (e.g., protrusions from a surface of escutcheon  220 ). In another example, the escutcheon  220  includes one or more materials that correspond with other features of the fenestration assembly  100  or room including the assembly. In an example, the fenestration assembly  100  is included in a bathroom, and the escutcheon  220  includes a bronze material that corresponds with the bronze material of plumbing fixtures within the bathroom. 
     In the example shown in  FIG. 3  the escutcheon  220  includes a handle orifice  300  that receives the handle  200 . Additionally, the locking mechanism  250  includes one or more through holes  310 . For instance, the escutcheon  220  optionally includes a first through hole  310 A, and the assembly housing  210  includes a second through hole  310 B. The through holes  310 A,  310 B are aligned and facilitate coupling the latch mechanism  250  with the fenestration assembly (e.g., the rail  160 ). The through holes  310  are configured to receive a fastener, and the fastener engages with the fenestration assembly  100  to couple the locking mechanism  250  with the fenestration assembly  100 . 
     In some examples, and as described in greater detail herein, the latch mechanism  250  includes a biasing element  320  (e.g., a leaf spring compression spring torsion spring elastomer or the like) that biases a component of the mechanism  250 , such as the latching arm  230 , toward an aligned position with the fenestration frame  100  (e.g., the keeper  400  or keeper ridge  420  shown in  FIG. 4 ). As shown in  FIG. 3 , the biasing element  320  is interposed between the assembly housing  210  and the latch arm  230 . The biasing element  320  biases (e.g., pushes, pulls, or the like) the latch arm  230  with respect to the assembly housing  210 . In the example shown in  FIG. 4 , the biasing element  320  biases the latch arm away from the housing  210  and toward a feature of the fenestration assembly  100 , such as the keeper  400 . As further shown in  FIG. 4 , and shown in assembled views herein, the biasing element  320  indirectly biases the operator  240  engaged along a portion of the latch arm  230 , and correspondingly biases the handle  200 . Operation of the handle  200  to unlock the sash  140  overcomes the bias from the biasing element  320  and moves the latch arm  230  to move the locking face  231  from the fenestration frame  110  (e.g., out of alignment with the keeper  400 ). 
       FIG. 4  is a perspective view of a keeper  400  coupled with the fenestration frame  110 , for instance along one or more of the sill  120  or header  130 . The keeper  400  is optionally positioned within a frame channel  410  of the fenestration frame  110  (e.g., proximate the sill  120  shown in  FIG. 1 ). With the keeper  400  coupled to the frame  110  and within the frame channel  410  the keeper  400  is at least partially concealed (e.g., obscured) by the frame  110 . In this example, with the sash  140  ( FIG. 1 ) in the closed position, the keeper  400  is concealed from view, for instance by the rail  160 . 
     As further shown in  FIG. 4 , the keeper  400  optionally projects from the frame  110  and provides a feature, such as a keeper ridge  420 , that couples with the latch arm  230  (shown in  FIGS. 2A, 2B ) to hold the sash  140  static relative to the frame  110 . In another example, the fenestration frame  110  provides the keeper  400  including a keeper ridge  420  or other feature formed directly in the frame  110  (e.g., through molding routing or the like). For example, a slot, recess or the like is provided in the frame  110  and the keeper ridge  420  corresponds to an edge of the frame  110  within the slot or recess. 
       FIG. 5A  is a cross sectional view of the latch assembly  180  of  FIG. 1  in a locked configuration. In the locked configuration, the latch arm  230  of the latch mechanism  250  is engaged with the keeper  400  to hold the sash  140  static relative to the fenestration frame  110 . The locking face  231  (shown in  FIG. 2B ) of the latch arm  230  is aligned with the keeper ridge  420  (shown in  FIG. 4 ) and positioned thereunder. Optionally, while aligned the latch arm  230  is engaged against the ridge  420 , the locking face  231  is seated under the ridge  420  or sp aced therefrom through tolerance or design. With this arrangement of the locking face  231  aligned to the keeper  400  the sash  140  is locked in the fenestration frame  110  in the closed position. In this example, if a user attempts to move the sash  140  relative to the frame  110 , the engagement of the locking face  231  with the keeper ridge  420  prevents movement of the sash  140  relative to the frame  110 . 
       FIG. 5B  is a cross sectional view of the latch assembly  180  of  FIG. 5A  in an unlocked configuration. In the unlocked configuration, the latch arm  230  of the latch mechanism  250  is misaligned relative to the keeper  400 . Accordingly, the sash  140  is freed and movable relative to the frame  110  toward the open position. In this example, the handle  200  initiates the change in configuration. For instance, the handle  200  is moved in the direction of arrow D 1 . Movement of the handle  200  operates the latch mechanism  250  to move the latch arm  230  and misalign the locking face  231  with the keeper ridge  420  (shown in  FIG. 4 ) to unlock the latching assembly  180 . In some examples, movement of the handle  200  overcomes the bias of the biasing element  320  and, for instance, compresses the biasing element  320  while moving the latch arm  230 . Accordingly, the latch arm  230  is biased toward the assembly housing  210 . Optionally, continued movement of the handle  200  in the direction of arrow D 1  is transmitted to the sash  140  to open the sash. Accordingly, the sash  140  is unlocked and opened in a single movement by the user instead of requiring multiple operations to unlock the sash  140  and move the sash toward the open position through pulling on a finger pull lifting at the checkrail or the like. 
       FIG. 5C  is a cross sectional view of the latch assembly  180  of  FIG. 1  in a resetting configuration, a configuration that readies the fenestration assembly  100  to automatically lock with closing of the sash  140 . In an example, the handle  200  is released, and the biasing element  320  biases the latch arm  230  into the locked configuration. Because the handle  200  is released, the biasing element is decompressed and biases the latch arm  230  away from the assembly housing  210  (toward the left side of the page) and the latch arm  230  is again aligned with the keeper  400 . As the sash  140  is moved toward the closed position, the resetting face  232  slides over the keeper ridge  420  and biases the locking face  231  around the keeper ridge  420 . With continued closing movement the resetting face  232  disengages with the keeper  400 , such as the keeper ridge  420 , and the locking face  231  returns to the aligned position with the keeper (including the ridge  420 ) and is seated beneath the keeper ridge  420  (see  FIG. 5A ). 
     In another example, the latch mechanism  250  of the latch assembly  180  includes the operator  240  coupled with the handle  200 . As previously described the operator  240  provides an intermediate component that couples the latch arm  230  with the handle  200 . Referring again to  FIG. 3 , as shown in that example the operator  240  is selectively engageable with the latch arm  230  based on rotation of the handle  200  and the latch arm  230  (e.g., as the latch arm  230  is rotated by the biasing element  320 ). In one example, the operator  240  ensures the locking face  231  of the latching arm  230  is not forced into an aligned position with the keeper ridge  420 , and the operator  240  thereby prevents crashing of the latch arm  230  with the keeper  400  or the fenestration frame  110 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 5B  movement of the handle  200  in a direction opposed to D 1  in the Figure decouples the operator  240  from the latching arm  230  (e.g., the operator  240  is selectively disengaged from the latching arm  230 ). Accordingly, the opposed movement does not drive and hold the latching arm  230  in the configuration shown in  FIG. 5C . Instead, the latching arm  230  is biased toward the configuration shown in  FIG. 5C  by the biasing element  320 . Accordingly, as the sash  140  is closed the latching arm  230  naturally deflects according to sliding engagement between the resetting face  232  and the keeper ridge  420 . 
     In one example, with the operator  240  coupled to the latching arm  230  when the handle is moved in the direction opposite D 1 , the opposed motion app lied to the handle  200  to close the sash  140  may drive and hold the latch arm  230  in the configuration shown in  FIG. 5C  (e.g., the latch arm  230  is driven away from the assembly housing  130 , or toward the left of the page). In an example, upon closing the sash  140 , if the latch arm  230  is forcefully held in place the components of the latch assembly  180  crash together causing wear, damage or the like because the latch arm  230  is driven into alignment with the keeper  400  (e.g., away from the assembly housing  130 ), instead of the latch arm  230  naturally moving toward misalignment with the keeper  400  (e.g., toward the assembly housing  130 ) through engagement between the resetting face  232  and the keeper ridge  420 . 
     In contrast, the decoupling of the operator  240  from the latch arm  230  when the handle  200  is moved in the direction opposed to D 1  facilitates the resetting face  23  and the locking face  231  travelling past the keeper ridge  420  and accordingly prevents crashing of the components of the latch assembly  180 . 
     Referring again to  FIG. 5C , the latch mechanism  250  is concealed by one or more of the sash  140 , the rail  160  (shown in  FIG. 1 ), or the frame  110 . As shown in  FIG. 5C , the assembly housing  210  is concealed within the rail  160 . Additionally, the latch arm  230  is concealed by the rail  160 . In an example, the latch arm  230  does not extend beyond an edge of the opposed rail  160 . In another example, the latch arm  230  is not visible when the sash  140  is in the open position or the closed position. In yet another example, the locking face  231  projects from the rail  160  while the remainder of the latch mechanism  250  (e.g., the remainder of the latch arm  230 , the operator  240 , or the like) is concealed by the rail  160 . As shown in  FIG. 5A , when the sash  140  is in the closed position, the handle  200  and the latch arm  230  are proximate (e.g., close to, adjacent, near, or the like) the sill  120  of the fenestration frame  110 . Accordingly, when closed the latch mechanism  250  is concealed by the rail  160  and the fenestration frame  110 . In another example, and as shown in  FIG. 15A , the handle  200  and the latch arm  230  are proximate the header  130  when the sash  140  is in the closed position. 
     With the latch assembly  180  proximate either (or both with dual assemblies) of the rails  160 , such as the sill  120  or header  130 , the latch assembly  180  is readily accessed and operated from a convenient location. For instance, with the latch assembly  180  proximate the sill the assembly including the handle  200  and the latch mechanism  250  are operated near to the floor of a room (e.g., by children in a school, disabled users, elderly or the like) to unlock and open the fenestration assembly  100  with a single operation, for instance in direction D 1  shown in  FIG. 5B . Additionally, the lower access provided with the latch assembly  180  facilitates both locking and unlocking and opening and closing of the fenestration assembly from a lower position. Accordingly, large fenestration assemblies otherwise including locking hardware proximate check rails are minimized in favor of the more easily accessible latch assembly  180 . 
       FIG. 6  is a perspective view of another example of the latch assembly  180 . The latch assembly  180  includes the handle  200 , the assembly housing  210 , the escutcheon  220 , the latch arm  230 , the lock face  231 , and the resetting face  232 . The latch assembly  180  is configured for concealment within the fenestration assembly  100  (e.g., the sash  140 ). In the example shown in  FIG. 6 , the escutcheon  220  has a different profile from the escutcheon  220  previously shown in  FIG. 3 . For instance, and as shown in  FIG. 3 , the escutcheon  220  includes an oval profile. In another example, and as shown in  FIG. 6 , the escutcheon  220  includes a rectangular profile. In yet another example, the escutcheon  220  includes a geometric (e.g., triangular, or other polygon) profile or the like. Additionally, the escutcheon  220  in  FIG. 6  does not include the one or more through holes  310  (see  FIG. 3 ). 
       FIG. 7  is an exploded view of the latch assembly  180  of  FIG. 6 . As described herein, the assembly housing  210  optionally includes the one or more through holes  310  to facilitate coupling the latch mechanism  250  with the fenestration assembly  100  (e.g., with one or more fasteners). In this example, the escutcheon  200  conceals components of the latch assembly  180 . For instance, the escutcheon  220  is configured to cover the through holes  310  in the assembly housing  210  and thereby increase the aesthetic appeal of the latch assembly  180  (and the fenestration assembly  100 ). 
     In other examples, the handle  200  includes one or more handle profiles. As shown in  FIG. 3 , in one example the handle  200  includes an undulating (e.g., curved, S-shaped, sinusoidal, or the like) profile. In the example shown in  FIG. 7 , the handle  200  includes a semicircular profile. The handle orifice  300  includes an orifice profile that corresponds with the one or more handle profiles to facilitate the reception of the handle by the escutcheon  220 . 
     Referring again to  FIG. 7 , in an example, the operator  240  includes an operator arm  700  extending between the first end  241  and the second end  242  of the operator  240 . The second end  242  of the operator  240  optionally includes a boss feature  710 , such as a projection, ridge or the like that engages with the latch arm  230  to facilitate movement of the latch arm  230 . Additionally, and in the example shown in  FIG. 7 , the latch assembly  180  includes the biasing element  320  that engages with the locking arm  230  and biases the locking arm  230  with respect to the assembly housing  210 . 
       FIG. 8  is a perspective view of another example of a latch assembly  180 . In an example, the latch assembly  180  includes the handle  200 , the assembly housing  210 , the escutcheon  220 , and the latch arm  230 . As described in greater detail herein, in some examples, the operator  240  does not include the operator arm  700  (shown in  FIG. 7 ) and instead the handle  200  is coupled (e.g., directly coupled) with the latch arm  230 . 
       FIG. 9  is an exploded view of the latch assembly  180  of  FIG. 8 . As described herein, the handle  200  is optionally coupled with the latch arm  230 . For instance, in some examples, the latch mechanism  250  does not include the operator  240 . As a result, operation of the handle  200  more directly moves the latch arm  230  to change the configuration of the locking assembly  180 . In this example, the assembly housing  210  does not include a plurality of pivot recesses as previous shown in  FIGS. 2B and 3 . Instead, the latch pivot  235  of the handle  200  and latch arm  230  is received in the pivot recess  212 . Accordingly, operation of the handle (rotation or upward and downward movement causing rotation) rotates the latch pivot  235  within the pivot recess  212  to move the latch arm  230  and change the configuration of the latch assembly  180 . 
       FIG. 10  is a perspective view of an additional example of a latch assembly  180 . In an example, the latch assembly  180  includes the handle  200 , the assembly housing  210 , the escutcheon  220 , and the latch arm  230 . As described herein and shown in  FIGS. 10-11 , the escutcheon  220  is integral with the assembly housing  210  (e.g., the escutcheon  220  and the assembly housing  210  are a single piece). In contrast, and as shown in  FIGS. 8 and 9 , the escutcheon  220  and the assembly housing  210  are separate pieces. 
       FIG. 11  is an exploded view of the latch assembly  180  of  FIG. 10 . As described herein, in some examples, the escutcheon  220  is integral with the assembly housing  210 . Accordingly, the number of components in the latch assembly  180  (e.g., the latch mechanism  250 ) is thereby reduced. In an example, the assembly housing  210  and the escutcheon  220  do not include the through holes  310  to facilitate the coupling of the assembly housing  210  with the fenestration assembly  100 . Instead, the assembly housing  210  optionally includes a housing profile that provides an interference fit with the fenestration assembly  100  (e.g., a recess in the rail  160 ). In another example, the assembly housing  210  is bonded (e.g., with a glue, epoxy, welding, or the like) to the fenestration assembly  100  and thereby coupled with the fenestration assembly  100 . 
     In an example, the latch arm  230  includes a biasing element recess  1100  that is configured to receive the biasing element  320 . Reception of the biasing element  320  in the recess  1100  couples the biasing element  320  with the latch arm  230  and locates the biasing element  320  between the latch arm  320  and the assembly housing  210 . Accordingly, the biasing element  320  biases the latch arm  320  away from assembly housing  210 . 
       FIG. 12  is a perspective view of another example of a fenestration assembly  100  including a latch assembly  180  coupled between a second sash  140 B and the fenestration frame  110 . As described herein, the latch assembly  180  is coupled with the fenestration assembly  100  (e.g., the one or more sashes  140 ). In some examples, the fenestration assembly  100  includes a first sash  140 A and a second sash  140 B. The sashes  140 A,  140 B are moveable relative to the fenestration frame  110  between an open position and a closed position. The sashes  140  each include the check rail  150  and the opposed rail  160   
     The fenestration assembly optionally includes a plurality of latch assemblies  180 , for instance a first latch assembly  180 A and a second latch assembly  180 B. In one example, and as shown in  FIG. 12 , the first latch assembly  180 A is optionally coupled with a first sash  140 A, and the second latch assembly  180 B is coupled with the second sash  140 B. For instance, the latch assembly  180 A is coupled to rail  160  of the first sash  140 A proximate the sill  120 , and the latch assembly  180 B is coupled to the rail  160  of the second sash  140 B proximate the header  130 . 
     In another example, the first latch assembly  180 A and the second latch assembly  180 B are coupled with the first sash  140 A, and one or more additional latch assemblies  180  are coupled with the second sash  140 B. In an example, the first latch assembly  180 A is coupled to the first sash  140 A proximate a first stile  170 A, and the second latch assembly  180 B is coupled to the first sash  140 A proximate a second stile  170 B. 
       FIG. 13  is a perspective view of the latch assembly  180 B of  FIG. 12 . As described herein, the second latch assembly  180 B is optionally coupled with the second sash  140 B (e.g., the rail  160 ). In some examples, the handle  200  of the second latch assembly  180 B is proximate the header  130  when the second sash  140 B is in the closed position. 
       FIG. 14  is an exploded view of the latch assembly  180 B of  FIG. 12 . As described herein, the latch assembly  180  includes the latch mechanism  250 . In an example, the latch mechanism  250  includes the assembly housing  210 , the escutcheon  220 , the latch arm  230 , the operator  240  (including the handle  200 ), the one or more through holes  310 , and one or more fasteners  1400 . The one or more fasteners are optionally received in the through holes  310  and facilitate coupling the locking mechanism with the fenestration assembly  100  (shown in  FIG. 12 ). 
       FIG. 15A  is a cross sectional view of the latch assembly  180 B of  FIG. 13  in a locked configuration. In the locked configuration, the latch arm  230  of the latch mechanism  250  is engaged with the keeper  400  to hold the sash  140  static relative to the fenestration frame  110  (e.g., the header  130 ). The locking face  231  of the latch arm  230  is aligned with the keeper ridge  420  and positioned thereunder. Optionally, while aligned the latch arm  230  is engaged against the ridge  420 , the locking face  231  is seated under the ridge  420  or sp aced therefrom through tolerance or design. With this arrangement of the locking face  231  aligned to the keeper  400  the sash  140 B is locked in the fenestration frame  110  in the closed position. In this example, if a user attempts to move the sash  140  relative to the frame  110 , the engagement of the locking face  231  with the keeper ridge  420  prevents movement of the sash  140  relative to the frame  110 . 
       FIG. 15B  is a cross sectional view of the latch assembly  180 B of  FIG. 13  in an unlocked configuration. In the unlocked configuration, the latch arm  230  of the latch mechanism  250  is misaligned relative to the keeper  400 . Accordingly, the sash  140  is freed and movable relative to the frame  110  (e.g., the header  130 ) toward the open position. In this example, the handle  200  initiates the change in configuration. For instance, the handle  200  is moved in the direction of arrow D 2 . Movement of the handle  200  operates the latch mechanism  250  to move the latch arm  230  and misalign the locking face  231  with the keeper ridge  420  (also shown in  FIG. 4 ) to unlock the latching assembly  180 . In some examples, movement of the handle  200  overcomes the bias of the biasing element  320  and, for instance, compresses the biasing element  320  while moving the latch arm  230 . Accordingly, the latch arm  230  is biased toward the assembly housing  210 . Optionally, continued movement of the handle  200  in the direction of arrow D 2  is transmitted to the sash  140  to open the sash. Accordingly, the sash  140  is unlocked and opened in a single movement by the user instead of requiring multiple operations to unlock the sash  140  and move the sash toward the open position through pulling on a finger pull lifting at the checkrail or the like. 
       FIG. 16  is a block diagram showing one example of a method  1600  for operating a fenestration assembly  100 . In describing the method  1600 , reference is made to one or more components, features, functions and operations previously described herein. Where convenient, reference is made to the components, features, operations and the like with reference numerals. The reference numerals provided are exemplary and are not exclusive. For instance, components, features, functions, operations and the like described in the method  1600  include, but are not limited to, the corresponding numbered elements provided herein and other corresponding elements described herein (both numbered and unnumbered) as well as their equivalents. 
     At  1610 , the fenestration assembly  100  is unlocked with a latch mechanism  250  concealed within a rail  160  of a sash  140 , the latch mechanism  250  proximate one of a sill  120  or header  130  of a fenestration frame  110  with the sash  140  in a closed position. At  1620 , unlocking the fenestration assembly  100  includes moving a handle  200  of the latch mechanism  250  proximate the sill  120 . 
     At  1630 , unlocking the fenestration assembly  100  includes transmitting movement of the handle  200  to a latch arm  230 . For instance, the handle  200  is optionally pivoted and an operator  240  coupled with the handle is pivoted. An operator arm  700  of the operator  240  is engaged against the latch arm  230 . The latch arm  230  is pivoted to misalign the locking face  231  of the latch arm  230  with the keeper ridge  420 . In some examples, pivoting the handle  200  and the operator  240  includes pivoting at an operator pivot  245 , and pivoting the latch arm  230  includes pivoting at a latch pivot  235  different than the operator pivot  245 . Additionally, engaging the operator arm  700  against the latch arm  230  optionally includes engaging the operator arm  700  between the locking face  231  and the latch pivot  235  of the latch arm  230 . Further, in some examples, each of transmitting movement of the handle  200  to the latch arm  230  and misaligning the locking face  231  with the keeper ridge  420  is concealed by one or more of the rail  160  of the sash  140  or the sill  120  or header  130  of the fenestration frame  110 . 
     At  1640 , unlocking the fenestration assembly  100  includes misaligning a locking face  231  of the latch arm  230  with a keeper ridge  420  in the fenestration frame  110  according to movement of the handle  200  and the latch arm  230 . The method  1600  includes at  1650  moving the sash from a closed position. 
     Several options for the method  1000  follow. For instance, the latch arm  230  is optionally biased toward alignment with the keeper ridge  420  with a biasing element  320 . In another example, the sash  140  is moved toward the closed position. The sash  140  is automatically locked in the closed position with the latch mechanism  250 . For instance, automatically locking optionally includes engaging the latch arm  230  with at least one of the fenestration frame  110  or the keeper ridge  420 . Additionally, the latch arm  230  is optionally biased to misalign the locking face  231  with the keeper ridge  420  according to the engagement of the latch arm  230  with the with at least one of the fenestration frame  110  or the keeper ridge  420 . Further, the bias of the latch arm  230  is released with movement of the locking face  231  past the keeper ridge  420 , and the locking face  231  aligning with the keeper ridge  420  with release of the bias. 
     Various Notes &amp; Examples 
     Example 1 can include subject matter, such as a fenestration assembly comprising: a fenestration frame; at least one sash slidably coupled within the fenestration frame and movable between open and closed positions, the at least one sash includes a check rail, rail an opposed rail opposed to the check rail, and stiles; a latch assembly having locked and unlocked configurations, the latch assembly includes: a keeper ridge coupled with the fenestration frame, an assembly housing concealed within the opposed rail, a latch mechanism movably coupled with the assembly housing wherein the latch mechanism includes: a handle extending from the assembly housing, and a latch arm coupled with the handle and concealed by the rail, the latch arm includes a locking face configured for alignment with the keeper ridge; in the locked configuration the locking face of the latch arm is aligned with the keeper ridge, and the at least one sash is held static within the fenestration frame at the closed position; and in the unlocked configuration the handle and latch arm are moved relative to the locked configuration, the locking face is misaligned with the keeper ridge, and the at least one sash is slidable within the fenestration frame. 
     Example 2 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Example 1, to optionally include, wherein the handle and latch arm are proximate a sill of the fenestration frame with the sash in the closed position. 
     Example 3 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1 or 2 to optionally include, wherein the handle and latch arm are proximate a header of the fenestration frame with the sash in the closed position. 
     Example 4 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-3 to optionally include, wherein the latch mechanism includes a biasing element coupled with the latch arm, and the biasing element biases the locking face toward alignment with the keeper ridge. 
     Example 5 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-4 to optionally include, wherein the latch arm includes a resetting face, and the resetting face is configured to: engage the fenestration frame with movement of the sash to the closed position, and bias the locking face toward misalignment with the keeper ridge until the sash is in the closed position. 
     Example 6 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-5 to optionally include, wherein the latch arm and the handle are pivotally coupled with the assembly housing. 
     Example 7 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-6 to optionally include, wherein the latch mechanism includes an operator interposed between the handle and the latch arm, the operator includes: a first end coupled with the handle, an operator arm extending from the first end toward a second end and the operator arm, the second end of the latch arm is configured for engagement and disengagement from the latch arm. 
     Example 8 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-7 to optionally include, wherein the second end of the operator arm includes a boss extending from the operator arm toward the latch arm. 
     Example 9 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-8 to optionally include, wherein in the unlocked configuration the handle moves the second end of the operator arm into engagement with the latch arm and the locking face is biased into misalignment with the keeper ridge. 
     Example 10 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-9 to optionally include, wherein in the locked configuration the second end of the operator arm is disengaged with the latch arm, and the locking face is biased into alignment with the keeper ridge. 
     Example 11 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-10 to optionally include, wherein the at least one sash includes a first sash and a second sash, and each of the first and second sashes includes respective check rails, rails opposed to the respective check rails, and stiles, and wherein the assembly housing is concealed within at least one of the rails opposed to the respective check rails, and the keeper ridge is coupled with a portion of the fenestration frame adjacent to the assembly housing with the first or second sash in the closed position. 
     Example 12 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-11 to optionally include a latch assembly for a fenestration assembly comprising: a keeper ridge configured for coupling with a fenestration frame; an assembly housing configured for coupling within a rail of a sash; a latch mechanism movably coupled with the assembly housing, the latch mechanism is at least partially within the assembly housing, and the latch mechanism includes: a handle pivotally coupled with the assembly housing a latch arm pivotally coupled with the assembly housing, the latch arm includes a locking face configured for alignment with the keeper ridge, and an operator interposed between the handle and the latch arm, the operator including an operator arm extending from a first end proximate the handle to a second end proximate the latch arm, wherein the second end is configured for engagement and disengagement from the latch arm. 
     Example 13 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-12 to optionally include, wherein the latch assembly includes locked and unlocked configurations: in the locked configuration the locking face of the latch arm is aligned with the keeper ridge; and in the unlocked configuration the handle and operator arm are moved relative to the locked configuration and misalign the locking face with the keeper ridge. 
     Example 14 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-13 to optionally include, wherein in the unlocked configuration the handle and the operator pivot together, and the second end of the operator arm engages with the latch arm, pivots the latch arm, and misaligns the locking face with the keeper ridge. 
     Example 15 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-14 to optionally include, wherein the handle and the operator are integral. 
     Example 16 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-15 to optionally include, wherein handle and the operator are pivotally coupled with the assembly housing at an operator pivot. 
     Example 17 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-16 to optionally include, wherein the latch arm is pivotally coupled with the assembly housing at a latch pivot. 
     Example 18 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-17 to optionally include, wherein the second end of the operator arm is on a first side of the latch pivot and between the latch pivot and the locking face, and an operator pivot of the handle and the operator is on a second side of the latch pivot. 
     Example 19 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-18 to optionally include, wherein the latch mechanism includes a biasing element coupled with the latch arm, and the biasing element biases the locking face toward alignment with the keeper ridge. 
     Example 20 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-19 to optionally include, wherein the second end of the operator arm includes a boss extending from the operator arm toward the latch arm. 
     Example 21 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-20 to optionally include a fenestration frame and at least one sash movable within the fenestration frame, wherein: the assembly housing and at least a portion of the latch mechanism are concealed within a rail of the least one sash opposed to a check rail of the at least one sash, and the keeper ridge is coupled with the fenestration frame. 
     Example 22 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-21 to optionally include a method for operating a fenestration assembly comprising: unlocking the fenestration assembly with a latch mechanism concealed within a rail of a sash, the latch mechanism proximate one of a sill or header of a fenestration frame with the sash in a closed position, unlocking includes: moving a handle of a latch mechanism proximate the sill, transmitting movement of the handle to a latch arm, and misaligning a locking face of the latch arm with a keeper ridge in the fenestration frame according to movement of the handle and the latch arm; and moving the sash from a closed position. 
     Example 23 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-22 to optionally include, wherein transmitting movement of the handle to the latch arm includes: pivoting the handle and an operator coupled with the handle, engaging an operator arm of the operator against the latch arm, and pivoting the latch arm to misalign the locking face of the latch arm with the keeper ridge. 
     Example 24 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-23 to optionally include, wherein pivoting the handle and the operator includes pivoting at an operator pivot, and pivoting the latch arm includes pivoting at a latch pivot different than the operator pivot. 
     Example 25 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-24 to optionally include, wherein engaging the operator arm against the latch arm includes engaging the operator arm between the locking face and a latch pivot of the latch arm. 
     Example 26 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-25 to optionally include, wherein each of transmitting movement of the handle to the latch arm and misaligning the locking face with the keeper ridge is concealed by one or more of the rail of the sash or the sill or header of the fenestration frame. 
     Example 27 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-26 to optionally include biasing the latch arm toward alignment with the keeper ridge with a biasing element. 
     Example 28 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-27 to optionally include moving the sash toward the closed position, and automatically locking the sash in the closed position with the latch mechanism, automatically locking includes: engaging the latch arm with at least one of the fenestration frame or the keeper ridge, biasing the latch arm to misalign the locking face with the keeper ridge according to the engagement, and releasing the bias of the latch arm with movement of the locking face past the keeper ridge, and the locking face aligning with the keeper ridge with release of the bias. 
     Example 29 can include or use, or can optionally be combined with any portion or combination of any portions of any one or more of Examples 1 through 28 to include or use, subject matter that may include means for performing any one or more of the functions of Examples 1 through 28. 
     Each of these non-limiting examples can stand on its own, or can be combined in various permutations or combinations with one or more of the other examples. 
     The above description includes references to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed description. The drawings show, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention can be practiced. These embodiments are also referred to herein as “examples.” Such examples can include elements in addition to those shown or described. However, the present inventors also contemplate examples in which only those elements shown or described are provided. Moreover, the present inventors also contemplate examples using any combination or permutation of those elements shown or described (or one or more aspects thereof), either with respect to a particular example (or one or more aspects thereof), or with respect to other examples (or one or more aspects thereof) shown or described herein. 
     In the event of inconsistent usages between this document and any documents so incorporated by reference, the usage in this document controls. 
     In this document, the terms “a” or “an” are used, as is common in patent documents, to include one or more than one, independent of any other instances or usages of “at least one” or “one or more.” In this document, the term “or” is used to refer to a nonexclusive or, such that “A or B” includes “A but not B,” “B but not A,” and “A and B,” unless otherwise indicated. In this document, the terms “including” and “in which” are used as the plain-English equivalents of the respective terms “comprising” and “wherein.” Also, in the following claims, the terms “including” and “comprising” are op en-ended, that is, a system, device, article, composition, formulation, or process that includes elements in addition to those listed after such a term in a claim are still deemed to fall within the scope of that claim. Moreover, in the following claims, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc. are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects. 
     Geometric terms, such as “parallel”, “perpendicular”, “round”, or “square”, are not intended to require absolute mathematical precision, unless the context indicates otherwise. Instead, such geometric terms allow for variations due to manufacturing or equivalent functions. For example, if an element is described as “round” or “generally round,” a component that is not precisely circular (e.g., one that is slightly oblong or is a many-sided polygon) is still encompassed by this description. 
     The above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-described examples (or one or more aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. Other embodiments can be used, such as by one of ordinary skill in the art up on reviewing the above description. The Abstract is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. § 1.72(b), 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. Also, in the above Detailed Description, various features may be grouped together to streamline the disclosure. This should not be interpreted as intending that an unclaimed disclosed feature is essential to any claim. Rather, inventive subject matter may lie in less than all features of a particular disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description as examples or embodiments, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment, and it is contemplated that such embodiments can be combined with each other in various combinations or permutations. The scope of the invention should be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.