Patent Publication Number: US-2019184271-A1

Title: Tabletop Entertainment Apparatus

Description:
This patent disclosure 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 U.S. Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves any and all copyright rights. 
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention is directed to an apparatus for entertainment and amusement that can be configured for either a single player or multiple players and methods of use, thereof. Specifically, the apparatus utilizes a striking means, such as a striker block, to propel a projectile along a target surface toward a target. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     “Backyard games” such as corn hole and washers are now commonly found on restaurant patios and frequently played outside of bars, during festivals, and at other social events. These types of games typically involve tossing a projectile such as a ball, disk, or bean bag at a target, which is normally located several feet from the players. In addition to providing a source of amusement, these games present opportunities to bond and further develop relationships. Moreover, these games are all fairly intuitive and extremely easy to comprehend, requiring little, if any, guidance before a player can participate in the game. Most backyard games can be enjoyed for either a relatively short period of time or played for several hours. Backyard games also employ an element of excitement and anticipation as the projectile travels toward the target—making the game enjoyable for both spectators and players. Such qualities explain why these types of games are growing in popularity. However, these activities require a large, open area such as a yard or patio and are not suitable for indoor play or for play in a confined area. These limitations restrict the ability to participate in these activities when socializing indoors or when the weather is unpleasant. Furthermore, these outdoor games are fairly cumbersome, may require several minutes to set up, and are not easy to move from place to place. 
     Most board games, although suitable for indoor amusement and conducive to developing relationships, lack many of the popular aspects of “backyard games.” Fist, indoor board games often involve fairly complex rules, requiring investment of significant time before the players are equipped to participate in the activity. Potential players may be intimidated by the complex instructions or lack adequate time to learn the rules of play, making it difficult to engage those who are unfamiliar with the game. In addition, due to the complex rules and the coordinated effort required to complete the game, it is difficult to play many board games in a loud environment such as at social gatherings, restaurants, or bars. Furthermore, few indoor board games involve throwing or launching projectiles such as bags, balls, or disks into targets. This lack of a physically observable component makes the game less engaging for spectators and often isolates the players from socializing with those not directly involved in the game. 
     Hence, what is needed is a game that can be readily adapted for indoor play, takes up a minimal amount of space, is easily transportable, can be learned with little or no effort, is capable of being played in a noisy environment such as a bar or restaurant, and is versatile enough to be completed within either a few minutes or enjoyed for several hours. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     An apparatus for amusement and entertainment is provided herein. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a target surface comprising a top face and a target region; one or more launching zones, wherein each launching zone is configured to support a projectile; and a striking means associated with each launching zone. 
     The apparatus can further include a striking means support structure associated with each striking means. In embodiments, the striking means support structure comprises two side supports and a top support that continues horizontally from one side support to an opposite side support. 
     The striking means can comprise a striker block pivotally attached to the top support of the striking means support structure. The striking means is configured to strike the projectile and propel the projectile from the launching zone toward the target region. 
     In exemplary embodiments, the target surface further comprises two ends with a launching zone at each end. The target surface can comprise a plurality of arms and launching zones. Specific embodiments comprise up to four arms and up to four launching zones. Still other embodiments comprise up to six arms and up to six launching zones. 
     The target region can be disposed near the center of the target surface. Alternatively, the target region can be disposed near an end of the target surface. In embodiments, the target surface includes one or more targets. The one or more targets can further comprise one or more holes, gaps, notches, or combinations thereof in the top face of the target surface. In certain embodiments, the diameter of the one or more targets is between about ½ inch to about 1½ inches, inclusive. In other embodiments, the diameter of the target can be large enough to allow a standard U.S. currency to be received within the target. The diameter of the target surface can be (1) slightly larger than the diameter of a U.S. dime, (2) slightly larger than the diameter of a U.S. fifty cent piece, or (3) any diameter size between (1) and (2). 
     In certain embodiments, the target surface extends upward from the launching zone at an angle from about 1° to about 45°. Alternatively, the angle of the target surface can be adjustable. The target surface comprises outer edges and can further comprise walls extending along the outer edges. The walls have an interior face and an exterior face. In embodiments, a transverse supporting member extends horizontally from the interior face of one wall to the interior face of an opposite wall. 
     The apparatus can further include a base on which the target surface is mounted. The base of embodiments can be one continuous piece or can comprise a notch, hole, slot, or gap, wherein the notch, hole, slot, or gap extends longitudinally across a portion of the base. 
     The apparatus can additionally include a projectile return mechanism configured to catch a projectile that falls through the targets and allow the projectile to be returned to the front of the apparatus. The projectile return mechanism can be disposed underneath the target surface and extend from under the target region to an area below the launching zone. 
     The apparatus can offer a ramp with a distal end and a proximal end. The distal end of the ramp is disposed toward the launching zone, and the proximal end of the ramp is disposed toward the target region. In certain embodiments, the launching zone is disposed upon the distal end of the ramp. 
     A method of playing an entertainment apparatus is also disclosed herein. The method employs an entertainment apparatus that has a target surface, one or more launching zones, a striking means support structure associated with each launching zone, and a striking means coupled to each striking means support structure. The target surface further includes a target region.
         The method further includes placing a projectile upon a top face of the one or more launching zones and generating and storing potential energy within the striking means. The striking means is then released such that the striking means is direct toward the launching zone. When the striking means reaches the launching zone, the striking means strikes the projectile. The projectile is then propelled from the launching zone toward the target region.   The method can also include a striking means support structure associated with each striking means. Each striking means support structure having two side supports and a top support that continues horizontally from one side support to an opposite side support. In such embodiments, each striking means can comprise a striker block that is pivotally attached to the top support of its striking means support structure. In these embodiments, the striker block is pivoted in an upward direction to generate the potential energy within the striker block.       

     In various exemplary embodiments, the present invention comprises an apparatus for amusement and entertainment that is capable of being played indoors in a relatively confined space such as a table or desk top. The invention is also suitable for outdoor play. The present invention comprises a target surface, one or more launching zones, and a striking means. The striking means is configured to strike a projectile in the launching zone and propel the projectile down the target surface toward a target region. Using this apparatus players engage in competition with the goal of sending the projectile down the target surface to land on or in a target within the target region. The invention can be adapted into either single player or multiplayer embodiments and is conducive to being played in crowded, noisy environments such as restaurants, parties, and bars. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Certain illustrations are appended hereto to promote a better understanding of the present invention. It is to be noted, however, that the drawings illustrate only selected exemplary embodiments of the invention and are, therefore, not to be considered limiting of scope, for the inventions can admit to other equally effective embodiments and applications. 
         FIG. 1  is a top right perspective view of the amusement apparatus showing the striking means in an elevated position and a projectile resting upon the launching zone. 
         FIG. 2  is another perspective view of the  FIG. 1  apparatus showing the striking means in a dropped position and the projectile traveling along the target surface in the direction of the closed arrow. 
         FIG. 3  is a close-up view of the front of the apparatus taken from circle F 3  of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 4  is a perspective view of the front portion of the apparatus of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 5  is a top view of the the apparatus of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 6  is a bisected side view of the amusement apparatus wherein the left half is removed. This view is taken from line F 6  of  FIG. 5 . 
         FIG. 7  is a side view of the amusement apparatus of  FIG. 6  that includes the left half of the apparatus. 
         FIG. 8  is a bottom left perspective view of the apparatus of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 9  is a top, side perspective view of a two-player embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 10  is a top perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention with no walls. 
         FIG. 11  is a top perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention with no walls, no base, a ramp, and a plurality of targets. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     Abbreviations and Definitions 
     Detailed descriptions of one or more preferred embodiments are provided herein. It is to be understood, however, that the present invention can be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but rather as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to employ the present invention in any appropriate manner. 
     The singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The use of the word “a” or “an” when used in conjunction with the term “comprising” in the claims and/or the specification can mean “one,” but it is also consistent with the meaning of “one or more,” “at least one,” and “one or more than one.” 
     Wherever any of the phrases “for example,” “such as,” “including” and the like are used herein, the phrase “and without limitation” is understood to follow unless explicitly stated otherwise. Similarly “an example,” “exemplary” and the like are understood to be nonlimiting. 
     The term “substantially” allows for deviations from the descriptor that do not negatively impact the intended purpose. Descriptive terms are understood to be modified by the term “substantially” even if the word “substantially” is not explicitly recited. Therefore, for example, the phrase “wherein the lever extends vertically” means “wherein the lever extends substantially vertically” so long as a precise vertical arrangement is not necessary for the lever to perform its function. 
     The terms “comprising” and “including” and “having” and “involving” (and similarly “comprises,” “includes,” “has,” and “involves”) and the like are used interchangeably and have the same meaning. Specifically, each of the terms is defined consistent with the common United States patent law definition of “comprising” and is therefore interpreted to be an open term meaning “at least the following,” and is also interpreted not to exclude additional features, limitations, aspects, etc. Thus, for example, “a process involving steps a, b, and c” means that the process includes at least steps a, b and c. Wherever the terms “a” or “an” are used, “one or more” is understood, unless such interpretation is nonsensical in context. 
     As used herein the term “about” can mean “approximately,” “roughly,” “around,” or “in the region of.” When the term “about” is used in conjunction with a numerical range, it modifies that range by extending the boundaries above and below the numerical values set forth. In general, the term “about” is used herein to modify a numerical value above and below the stated value by a variance of twenty percent up or down (higher or lower). 
     In various exemplary embodiments, the present invention relates generally to an apparatus for amusement and entertainment comprising a target surface  1 , one or more launching zones  5 , and a striking means  10 . 
     The targets surface  1  comprises a target region  30 . In the embodiments shown in  FIGS. 1-8 and 10-11 , the target surface  1  comprises a front edge, a front portion  150 , a back portion  250 , a top face, and bottom face. In these embodiments, the target region  30  is disposed closer to the back portion  250  of the target surface  1  than the front portion  150  of the target surface  1 . Alternatively, as shown in  FIG. 9 , the target region  30  can be disposed at a central location along the target surface. Such a central target region is particularly useful for multi-player versions of the game. 
     In the embodiments of  FIGS. 1-8 and 10 , the launching zone  5  is situated along the front edge of the target surface  1 . The launching zone  5  is configured such that a projectile  20  can rest thereon. The projectile  20  can rest either horizontally or vertically upon the launching zone  5 . As shown in  FIGS. 1 &amp; 6 , the launching zone  5  can be configured such that, when resting thereon, the projectile  20  extends beyond the outer edge of the launching zone  20 . The projectile  20  can be a ball, disk, coin, bean bag, or any other object known by those skilled in the art to be suitable for tossing or launching in such game apparatuses. In preferred embodiments, the projectile is a coin. 
     The angles disclosed below are in relation to the surface on which the embodiment sits including but not limited to a tabletop, a floor, the ground, or any other surface on which a game of this type can be played. In embodiments, the target surface  1  extends upward, starting from the launching zone  5  at an angle of between 1° and 85°. The angle can be between 10° and 60°, between 10° and 30°, or between 10° and 15°. Alternatively, the angle of the target surface 1 can be between 1° and 10°. The angle can be about 2°, about 3°, about 4°, about 5°, about 6°, about 7°, about 8°, about 9°, or about 10°. As shown in  FIG. 9 , the target surface  1  can be substantially level with the playing surface. In still other embodiments, the angle of the target surface  1  can be adjustable (described below). The target surface  1  of embodiments can further comprise one or more ramps, trenches, holes, or combinations thereof disposed between the launching zone  5  and the target region  30 . 
     The target region  30  comprises one or more targets  35 .  FIG. 1-10  embodiments comprise a single target  35 ; whereas  FIG. 11  provides an exemplary embodiment that comprises multiple targets  35 . Embodiments can comprise twenty-five or more targets  35 . Some embodiments can comprise up to ten targets  35 . Alternatively, certain embodiments can comprise up to five targets  35 . Some target regions  30  can comprise up to three targets  35 . Embodiments comprise nine targets, eight targets, seven targets, six targets, five targets, four targets, three targets, two targets, or one target. In embodiments, the targets  35  can be printed, etched, painted, engraved, inscribed, impressed on the target surface  1 , or combinations thereof. In the embodiments shown in  FIGS. 1-11 , the targets  35  comprise holes, gaps, notches, or combinations thereof in the top face of the target surface. The holes gaps, notches, or combinations thereof can extend partially or completely through the target surface  1 . In embodiments with multiple targets  35 , the target size can be uniform or can vary from target to target. The targets  35  can comprise a diameter suitable to receive any denomination of U.S. coin currency that has been in circulation since the early 1900s. In certain embodiments, the diameter of each target  35  is between about ½ inch and about 5 inches, inclusive. The targets  35  can have diameters of between about ½ inch and about 3 inches, inclusive. Alternatively, the targets  35  can have diameters between about ½ inch and about 1 1/12 inches, inclusive. In certain embodiments, the diameters of the targets  35  are about 1 inch. 
     Embodiments also comprise a striking means support structure  15  associated with each striking means  10 . In a non-limiting example of  FIG. 3 , the striking means support structure  15  comprises two side supports  12 ,  13  and a top support  14  that continues horizontally from one side support  12  to an opposite side support  13 . The striking means support structure  15  can be attached to the top face of the target surface  1  or any other surface such that the striking means  10  strikes the projectile  20  and propels the projectile  20  from the launching zone  5  toward the target region  30 . In the embodiments of  FIGS. 1-8 , the striking means support structure  15  is attached to the top of the side walls  40 ,  41 . In the exemplary embodiments of  FIGS. 9-11 , the striking means support structure  15  is attached to the top face of the target surface  1 , being disposed thereon within about one inch from the front edge of the target surface  1  and extending upward from the target surface  1 . 
     In various exemplary embodiments, the striking means  10  comprises a hammer, a club, a striker block, a bat, or any other striking means that can be suitable for use in the game apparatus. As show in  FIG. 6 , the striking means  10  can be pivotally attached to the top support of the striking means support structure  15 . The striking means  10  can comprise a top, bottom, a front face, a back face, and two side faces. In the  FIG. 3  embodiment, the striking means comprises a hole  11  that extends through the side faces of the striking means  10 ; wherein the hole is configured to receive the top support  14  of the striking means support structure  15 . In the  FIG. 2  embodiment, the side supports of the striking means support structure  15  are so dimensioned that the front face of the bottom portion of the striking means  10  abuts the launching zone  5  when in a resting position. The striking means support structure  15  and the associated striking means  10  can be configured such that, when the striking means  10  is pivoted away from the target surface  1  the bottom of the striking means moves in an upward direction, and the potential energy of the striking means  10  increases as the bottom of the striking means  10  is pivoted to an elevated position ( FIGS. 1, and 3-8 ). When released from the elevated position, the striking means  10  generates kinetic energy through gravitational forces as the striking means  10  pivots back to its resting position ( FIG. 2 ). Immediately prior to reaching the resting position, the bottom portion of the front face of the striking means  10  is configured to strike the portion of the projectile  20  that extends beyond the front edge of the launching zone  5 . Upon striking the projectile  20 , the kinetic energy of the striking means  10  is transferred to the resting projectile  10 , which propels the projectile  10  toward the target region  30  ( FIG. 2 ). Alternatively, any suitable means of generating potential energy in the striking means  10  can be utilized. By way of example only, the alternate means can include: generating elastic potential energy through spring-loaded mechanisms or relying on electrical potential energy generated from placing a charged striking means inside of an electrical field. 
     In the  FIGS. 9-11  embodiments, the striking means support structure fits into holes  17  that extend through a portion of the top face of the target surface  1 , wherein the holes are configured to receive the two side arms  12 ,  13  of the striking means support structure  15 . In embodiments, the striking means  10  can be removable. In alternate embodiments, the striking means is permanently affixed to the apparatus. 
     The embodiments of  FIGS. 1-8  comprise walls  40 - 42  with exterior faces, interior faces, and top faces. The embodiments of  FIGS. 1-8 , comprise side walls  40 ,  41  and back walls  42 , creating an enclosure that surrounds the target surface  1  while leaving an opening for the launching zone  5  and striking means  10 . Alternatively, walls can be placed along the sides only, leaving the ends of the target surface  1  open. In the  FIG. 9-11  embodiments, no walls surround the target surface  1 . 
     In certain embodiments, the walls  40 - 42  extend vertically beyond the target surface. The walls  40 - 42  can extend up to about two times higher than the highest point of the target surface  1 . Alternatively the walls  40 - 42  can extend up to about one and half times the highest point of the target surface  1 . Embodiments comprise walls  40 - 42  that are substantially the same height as the highest point of the target surface  1 . In still other embodiments, the highest point of the target surface  1  extends vertically above the walls  40 - 42 . 
     In embodiments with walls the striking means support structure  15  can be either attached to the target surface  1  as previously described or, as shown in  FIGS. 1-8 , attached to the top face or interior faces of the side wall members  40 ,  41 . 
     Embodiments with walls can also comprise a transverse supporting member  45  that extends horizontally from the interior face of one side wall  40  to the interior face of an opposite side wall  41 . This supporting member  45  provides additional support to the side walls  40 ,  41 . In the  FIG. 6  embodiment, the supporting member  45  comprises a bottom face and is attached to the side walls  40 ,  41  such that the bottom face of the supporting member  45  is situated directly above the launching zone  5 . When so situated, the space between the bottom face of the supporting member  45  and the top face of the launching zone  5  defines a slot  25  such that the projectile  20  can rest horizontally on the top face of launching zone  5  and under the bottom face of the transverse supporting member  45 . 
     As seen in  FIGS. 1-10 , certain exemplary embodiments comprise a base  50 . In embodiments, the target surface  1  is mounted upon the base  50 . As shown in  FIG. 11 , the apparatus can also be provided without a base, wherein the target surface  1  rests directly upon the playing surface. 
     In embodiments with a base  50 , the target surface  1  can be mounted directly to the base  50  or mounted on supports  60  that elevate the target surface  1  above the base  50 .  FIGS. 6, 8-10  illustrate embodiments wherein a single support  60  is positioned between the target surface  1  and the base  50  to provide the upward angle of the target surface  1 . In addition, the walls  40 - 42  described above can be affixed directly to the base ( FIGS. 1-8 ). In certain embodiments, the striking means support structure  15  is attached directly to the base  50 . The base  50  can be continuous across the entire apparatus, or, as shown in  FIGS. 3-5 and 8 , the base can comprise a notch, hole, slot, or gap  55  that extends longitudinally across a portion of the base  50 . 
     A base  50  is particularly useful in embodiments wherein the angle of the target surface  1  is adjustable. In these embodiments, a hinging mechanism (not shown) can be utilized wherein the hinging mechanism is attached to or integrated with bottom face of the launching zone  5 . The target surface  1  can be angled along this hinging mechanism and one or more target surface support mechanisms  60  of varying thickness can be placed under the target surface  1  at multiple locations along the bottom face of the target surface  1  to adjust the angle. Alternatively, the aforementioned walls  40 - 42  of the apparatus can comprise notches within each wall (not shown). These notches can provide support for the target surface  1  at varying angles and allow for adjustment of the angle. The support notches can be used alone or in combination with the hinging mechanism previously mentioned. Alternative methods for providing an adjustable angle will be apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art. 
     Embodiments can also comprise a projectile return mechanism (not shown), which is particularly useful for embodiments wherein the targets  35  comprise one or more holes, gaps, notches, or combinations thereof. The projectile return mechanism can be disposed underneath the target surface  1  and extends from under the target region  30  to the launching zone  5 . The projectile return mechanism is configured to catch a projectile  20  that falls through the targets  35  and return the projectile to the front  150  of the apparatus. Alternatively, the projectile return mechanism can extend to a region just below the launching zone  5 . In embodiments with a base  50 , the projectile return mechanism can be configured to fit within a notch, hole, slot, or gap  55  that extends longitudinally across a portion of the base  50 . In certain embodiments, the projectile return mechanism is angled downward in relation to the target surface  1  such that the projectile  20  slides gravitationally along the return mechanism and back to the launching zone  5 . The projectile return mechanism can also comprise a conveyor belt or other means for carrying the projectile  20  back to the launching zone  5 . The downward angle or conveyor belt can be used alone or in combination to enable the projectile return mechanism to function properly. 
     Embodiments of the apparatus can be configured for a single player or for two or more players. In the single player embodiments of  FIGS. 1-8, 10 , &amp;  11 , there is a single launching zone  5 , a single striking means  10 , and one or more targets  35 . In multiplayer embodiments, the target surface  1  comprises one or more arms, two or more launching zones  5 , two or more striking means  10 , and one or more targets  35 . Multiplayer embodiments can be configured for two to eight players.  FIG. 9  shows a two-player embodiment comprising a target surface  1  with a single arm and two ends wherein a launching zone  5 . 1 ,  5 . 2  and striking means  10 . 1 ,  10 . 2  are disposed at both ends. In embodiments for three or more players, the number of target surface  1  arms corresponds to the maximum number of players. By way of example, in a four-player embodiment, the apparatus comprises four arms, each arm comprising its own launching zone  5  and its own striking means  10 . Similarly, in a six-player embodiment, the apparatus comprises six arms, each arm comprising its own launching zone  5  and its own striking means  10 . As shown in  FIG. 9 , the launching zones  5 . 1 ,  5 . 2  in multiplayer embodiments are disposed on the ends of the arms that are distal to the target region  30 . 
     Exemplary embodiments, such as the  FIG. 11  embodiment, comprise one or more ramps  70 . The one or more ramps  70  can comprise a front end  72  and a back end  75 . The front end  72  of the one or more ramps  70  is disposed toward the launching zone  5 , and the back end  75  of the one or more ramps  70  is disposed toward the target region  30 . In certain embodiments, the launching zone  5  is disposed upon the front end  72  of the one or more ramps  70 . In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 11 , the launching zone  5  is disposed on the front  72  end of the ramp  70 , and, beginning at the launching zone  5 , the ramp extends upward at an angle from the target surface  1 . The ramp  70  is configured such that, after being propelled by the striking means  10  and reaching the back end  75  of the ramp  70 , the projectile  20  is momentarily suspended in the air before landing on the target surface  1 . The ramp  70  can extend upward from the target surface  1  at various angles between 1° and 85°. The angle can be between 10° and 60°, between 10° and 30°, or between 10° and 15°. Alternatively, the angle of the ramp  70  can be between 1° and 10°. The angle can be about 2°, about 3°, about 4°, about 5°, about 6°, about 7°, about 8°, about 9°, or about 10°. Alternatively, the ramp  70  can be substantially level with the target surface  1 . In still other embodiments, the angle of the ramp  70  can be adjustable. Ramps  70  with an adjustable angle can utilize a multitude of mechanisms to achieve the desired angle. These mechanisms can include, but are not limited to, the hinging and notching mechanisms described above in relation to the adjustable angle of the target surface  1 . 
     A sound-insulating material can be applied to various surfaces of the entertainment apparatus to reduce the noise associated with use of the entertainment apparatus. The sound-insulating material can be in the form of a coating or layer of sound-insulating material along the surfaces of the apparatus. The sound insulating material can be placed along the entire surface of the entertainment apparatus. Alternatively, the sound insulating material can only partially cover the apparatus or portions of the apparatus. In one aspect, sound insulating material is placed around or on regions of increased impact. Such regions include but are not limited to the target region, targets, the target surface, the portion of the base disposed beneath the target region, the walls, or the striking means. Sound insulation is particularly useful in embodiments that comprise a ramp as described above. The sound-insulating material can be comprised of carpeting, polypropolene, silicon, rubber, combinations thereof, or any other suitable material that would be apparent to one skilled in the art of soundproofing. 
     It will be understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art that the apparatus described herein can be readily modified to any size suitable for indoor play or enlarged for outdoor game play. The apparatus can be constructed of metal, plastic, cardboard, wood, combinations thereof, or any other suitable material currently known or later developed or combinations of material that would be apparent to one having ordinary skill in the art. 
     Equivalents 
     Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain, using no more than routine experimentation, numerous equivalents to the specific substances and procedures described herein. Such equivalents are considered to be within the scope of this invention, and are covered by the following claims.