Patent Publication Number: US-10332430-B2

Title: Method and apparatus for self-illuminating sports, entertainment, emergency, and safety devices

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention generally relates to sports, entertainment, emergency, and safety devices, and more particularly to self-illuminating sports, entertainment, emergency, and safety devices. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     The advent of sports and entertainment activities has brought an immeasurable number of hours of enjoyment to all who have partaken, both from the participant&#39;s and the spectator&#39;s perspective. Until stadium lighting was introduced, however, all group sports were relegated to competitions during daylight hours. Organized baseball, for example, did not see its first nighttime competition until the 1880s, when carbon lamps were introduced to provide illumination of a baseball game played during non-daylight hours. The lighting developed for that game was imperfect, generating just enough illumination to discern the movements of the pitcher, and leaving the impression that nighttime sporting events would be impractical. 
     Since the 1880s, however, such vast improvements have been made to provide visible light to illuminate sporting activities that virtually every arena built for the purpose of hosting sporting events is now equipped with light generation facilities. It can be said, therefore, that the many advantages associated with hosting sporting events at night has necessitated the development of lighting technology to facilitate such activities. 
     When sporting and/or entertainment activities are conducted in areas that are not conducive to illumination, however, then other methods must be employed to facilitate the sporting and/or entertainment activities. For example, temporary lighting may be utilized to facilitate illumination within certain areas of parks, beaches, playgrounds, etc., so as to temporarily illuminate those areas for play. 
     Still other methods to facilitate sporting/entertainment activities involve the illumination of the objects of the activity, rather than the activity itself. For example, zinc-based products may be utilized, such that when the zinc-based products are exposed to ultra-violet (UV) radiation, they glow. As such, the so-called “glow-in-the-dark” products emanate enough visible light to be visible during non-daylight hours. Such zinc-based products, however, require a source of UV radiation, such as sunlight, blacklight, or fluorescent light to be used as the charging agent before the zinc-based products may be caused to glow. Zinc-based products, therefore, may not lend themselves well to sporting/entertainment activities that do not have access to such UV radiation sources. Strontium-based products may also be utilized to produce glow effects. Strontium-based products, however, must also be charged with an artificial light source, such as fluorescent or incandescent light, or a natural light source, such as sunlight, before the strontium-based products glow. 
     Other products, such as emergency devices utilized to preserve the life of those in emergency situations, or to protect the lives of those emergency personnel charged with saving the lives of those in emergency situations, are simply deficient. In particular, while such emergency devices may be implemented with light reflective material, they do not emit light themselves. As such, a separate light source is required so as to activate the reflectivity of the emergency devices to make them visible. 
     Efforts continue, therefore, to develop self-illuminating objects, useful during sporting, entertainment, emergency, and safety activities, that are not dependent upon a source of light for activation. Furthermore, efforts continue to develop such self-illuminating objects that are not dependent upon a separate source of light to be visible. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     To overcome limitations in the prior art, and to overcome other limitations that will become apparent upon reading and understanding the present specification, various embodiments of the present invention disclose a method and apparatus for self-illuminating sports, entertainment, emergency, and safety devices that self-illuminate without requiring a source of light for activation, or a separate source of light to be visible. 
     In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, a self-illuminating device comprises a body portion having a skin layer and a hollow channel, the hollow channel extending throughout an interior of the body portion to form first and second diametrically opposed openings in the body portion. The body portion includes a first solution and a vial disposed between the skin layer and the hollow channel, the vial containing a second solution. Depression of the skin layer is operative to rupture the vial to mix the first and second solutions to cause self-illumination of the self-illuminating device. 
     In accordance with an alternate embodiment of the invention, a self-illuminating device comprises a body portion having a hollow channel extending throughout an interior of the body portion to form first and second diametrically opposed openings in the body portion. The body portion includes a first solution and a vial, the vial containing a second solution. Depression of the body portion is operative to rupture the vial to mix the first and second solutions to cause self-illumination of the self-illuminating device. 
     In accordance with an alternate embodiment of the invention, a self-illuminating device comprises a body portion having a hollow channel extending throughout an interior of the body portion to form first and second diametrically opposed openings in the body portion. The body portion includes a first solution and a vial, the vial containing a second solution. The body portion is configured to rupture the vial to mix the first and second solutions to cause self-illumination of the self-illuminating device. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Various aspects and advantages of the invention will become apparent upon review of the following detailed description and upon reference to the drawings in which: 
         FIG. 1  illustrates a method of activating self-illuminating objects in accordance with the various embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 2A  illustrates a flexible, elongated, self-illuminating packet in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 2B  illustrates a zipper mechanism that may be used as an adhesive for the flexible, elongated, self-illuminating packet of  FIG. 2A  in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 2C  illustrates a trigger mechanism that may be used to activate self-illumination in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 2D and 2E  illustrate self-illuminating sports/entertainment devices in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 2F  illustrates a channel mechanism that may be used as an adhesive for the flexible, elongated, self-illuminating packet of  FIG. 2A  in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 3A and 3B  illustrate self-illuminating sports/entertainment devices in accordance with alternate embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 4  illustrates a self-illuminating sports/entertainment device in accordance with an alternate embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 5A-5B  illustrate a self-illuminating sports/entertainment device in accordance with alternate embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 6A-6C  illustrate acceleration-activated, self-illuminating sports/entertainment devices in accordance with alternate embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 6D  illustrates a trigger activated, self-illuminating sports/entertainment device in accordance with alternate embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 7A-7E  illustrate acceleration, trigger or injection activated, self-illuminating sports/entertainment devices in accordance with alternate embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 8A-8C  illustrate a self-illuminating, sports/entertainment device in accordance with alternate embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 9A-9C  illustrate a self-illuminating sports/entertainment device in accordance with alternate embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 9D-9E  illustrate self-illuminating sports/entertainment devices in accordance with alternate embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 10  illustrates a self-illuminating sports/entertainment device in accordance with an alternate embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 11A-11B  illustrate self-illuminating sports/entertainment devices in accordance with alternate embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 12A  illustrates a self-illuminating, subcutaneous layer that may be applied to the various embodiments of sports/entertainment/safety devices in accordance with alternate embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 12B  illustrates a trigger mechanism that may be used to activate the self-illuminating, subcutaneous layer of  FIG. 12A  in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; and 
         FIGS. 13A-13B  illustrate a fishing bead that may be caused to self-illuminate in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 13C  illustrates a jig head style fishing lure that may be caused to self-illuminate in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 14A, 14B, 15, 16A, 16B, 16C, 16D, 17A and 17B  illustrate various self-illuminating sports/entertainment/safety devices in accordance with alternate embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 18A-18C  illustrate self-illuminating sports/entertainment devices in accordance with alternate embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 19A-19B  illustrate self-illuminating sports/entertainment devices in accordance with alternate embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 20A-20B  illustrate self-illuminating sports/entertainment devices in accordance with alternate embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 21A-21F  illustrate self-illuminating sports/entertainment devices in accordance with alternate embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 22A-22B  illustrate self-illuminating sports/entertainment devices in accordance with alternate embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 23  illustrates a self-illuminating sports/entertainment device in accordance with alternate embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 24A-24B  illustrate self-illuminating sports/entertainment devices in accordance with alternate embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 25A  illustrates an emergency device in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 25B-25C  illustrate triggering mechanisms used to cause the emergency device of  FIG. 25A  to self-illuminate; 
         FIGS. 26, 27 and 28A  illustrate emergency devices in accordance with the various embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 28B  illustrates a triggering mechanism used to cause the emergency device of  FIG. 28A  to self-illuminate; 
         FIG. 29  illustrates a self-illuminating sports/entertainment device in accordance with an alternate embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 30A-30E  illustrate self-illuminating sports/entertainment devices in accordance with alternate embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 31A-31D  illustrate jig head style fishing lures in accordance with alternate embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 32A-32E  illustrate fishing lures in accordance with alternate embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 33A-33C  illustrate jig head style fishing lures in accordance with alternate embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 34A-34E  illustrate various actuator mechanisms in accordance with alternate embodiments of the present invention; and 
         FIGS. 35A-35B  illustrate self-illuminating sports/entertainment devices in accordance with alternate embodiments of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Generally, various embodiments of the present invention are applied to the fields of sports, entertainment, emergency, and safety. In particular, various objects designed for use in the various sports, entertainment, emergency, and safety related activities are activated in accordance with the various embodiments of the present invention and in response are caused to emanate visible light. As such, the objects become self-illuminated to facilitate their usage during non-daylight hours, or in other areas that are otherwise surrounded by darkness. Usage of the self-illuminating objects of the present invention may also be beneficial during daylight, since the self-illuminating effects produced by the self-illuminating objects may nevertheless be beneficial during lit conditions as well. Furthermore, activating the luminescence of the self-illuminating objects does not require a light source, nor do the self-illuminating objects require a separate source of light to be visible. 
     Instead, chemiluminescence may be utilized to cause emission of visible light from within one or more cavities of the objects, from exterior portions of the objects, or conversely from subcutaneous layers formed within the objects. Chemiluminescence is caused by the reaction in the liquid phase of an activator solution, e.g., hydrogen peroxide, with a fluorescer solution, such as the combination of a fluorescent agent, an oxalate, and a soluble perylene dye. Additional fluorescent agents may also be added to the fluorescer solution to modify the characteristics of the emitted light. 
     Such activator and fluorescer solutions, for example, are non-toxic and are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,678,608, 4,717,511, 5,122,306, and 5,232,635, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. The color of light that is emitted by the objects after chemiluminescent activation may be designed by appropriate selection of the fluorescer solution to create a wide variety of color selections across the red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet spectrum of visible light. In addition, the intensity of light may be enhanced by the incorporation of a water-soluble polymer, as described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,859,369, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Further, the stability of the color of light produced when using a rubrene dye may be enhanced by the incorporation of a polymer, as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,824,242, which is also incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
     It is noted that chemiluminescent activation of the various embodiments of the present invention provided herein is not necessarily caused by the mixing of an activator and a fluorescer solution in their respective liquid states in order to emanate visible light. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,348,690, which is also incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, discloses the use of a vinyl halide or a vinylidene halide polymer structure that incorporates one or more of the components of the chemiluminescent reaction. The structure is capable of absorbing an activator solution, such as a mixture of hydrogen peroxide with a sodium salicylate catalyst, which mixes with the components incorporated within the structure to cause emanation of visible light via chemiluminescence. 
     In alternate embodiments, one or more of the components of the chemiluminescent reaction may exist in a powder, or otherwise solid form, which is not incorporated within the structure. Rather, the powder, or otherwise solid chemiluminescent component, is loosely contained within a cavity of the structure and mixed with an activator solution, such as hydrogen peroxide, to cause emanation of visible light via chemiluminescence. 
     Various methods are provided herein, whereby the activator solution is brought into contact with the fluorescer solution to cause chemiluminescence. In a first embodiment, for example, a self-illuminating cartridge may contain both a fluorescer solution and a vial that contains the activator solution, or vice-versa. Prior to activation, the fluorescer solution is kept separate from the activator solution by operation of the vial. The outer casing of the self-illuminating cartridge may be composed of a flexible material, such as plastic, rubber, cellophane, etc., so as to allow manipulation of the self-illuminating cartridge to rupture the vial contained within the self-illuminating cartridge. Once the vial is ruptured, the activator solution is released into the fluorescer solution, which then activates the self-illuminating cartridge to cause the emission of visible light from the self-illuminating cartridge by the process of chemiluminescence. The activated, self-illuminating cartridge is then placed within a cavity of the self-illuminating object to produce the emanation of light from within the self-illuminating object. 
     In an alternate embodiment, the outer casing of the self-illuminating cartridge may be composed of a non-flexible, or rigid, material. In such an instance, manipulation of the self-illuminating cartridge does not rupture the vial contained within the self-illuminating cartridge. Instead, a trigger mechanism that forms a portion of the surface of the outer casing allows the internal vial to be ruptured. Once the vial is ruptured, the activator solution is released into the fluorescer solution, which then activates the self-illuminating cartridge to cause the emission of visible light from the self-illuminating cartridge by the process of chemiluminescence. The activated, self-illuminating cartridge is then placed within a cavity of the self-illuminating object to produce the emanation of light from within the self-illuminating object. 
     The activated, self-illuminating cartridge may also be shaped in the form of an elongated, flexible, self-illuminating packet that includes an adhesion component to allow attachment of the self-illuminating packet to an object&#39;s external periphery. A temporary adhesive, such as a Velcro® mechanism, a zipper mechanism, a channel mechanism, or liquid agent may be applied to the backing of the self-illuminating packet so as to facilitate attachment of the self-illuminating packet to the object. Should a Velcro®, zipper, or channel mechanism be used, the self-illuminating packets may be interchanged as necessary to maintain the desired intensity or desired color once the self-illumination effects have expired, or once a color change is desired. 
     In alternate embodiments, portions of the self-illuminating object may be pre-filled with a fluorescer solution. Chemiluminescent activation occurs in response to the injection of an activator solution into the fluorescer solution using a syringe or flexible vial. Once injected, the self-illuminating object begins to emanate visible light in a color spectrum that is designed by appropriate selection of the fluorescer solution. In yet another embodiment, a fluorescer solution, instead of an activator solution, is injected into portions of the self-illuminating object that are pre-filled with an activator solution. As such, a variety of vials and/or syringes containing a corresponding variety of fluorescer solution selections may be kept on hand, so as to facilitate color selection within the self-illuminating objects. 
     In alternate embodiments, portion(s) of the self-illuminating object may be pre-filled with either of a fluorescer solution or an activator solution. Chemiluminescent activation occurs in response to tactile, or acceleration-based, manipulation that causes the rupturing of a vial that is also contained within the object. The vial contains one of an activator solution, or a fluorescer solution, respectively. Once the vial is ruptured, the solutions mix within the object and in response, the self-illuminating object begins to emanate visible light in a color spectrum that is designed by appropriate selection of the fluorescer solution. 
     Turning to  FIG. 1 , a flow chart illustrating a method of activating self-illuminating objects in accordance with the various embodiments of the present invention is exemplified. In step  102 , as discussed in more detail below, a determination is made as to whether the self-illuminating object already contains the fluorescer solution as well as the activator solution. If so, then the object may be manipulated in step  106  to mix the fluorescer and activator solutions if the vial contained within the self-illuminating object is accessible as determined in step  104 . 
     In one embodiment, accessibility to the vial is facilitated through manipulation of the outer casing of the object, which is sufficiently pliable to allow the vial to be ruptured by manipulation of the outer casing. In alternate embodiments, however, the outer casing of the object is rigid, but manipulation of the vial is nevertheless facilitated through operation of a trigger mechanism that forms a portion of the surface of the outer casing. In such an instance, while the majority of the outer casing is rigid, a small portion of the outer casing is non-rigid, which allows depression of the trigger mechanism to rupture the vial contained within the outer casing. In other embodiments, a reverse trigger mechanism is utilized, whereby the vial is brought into contact with the trigger mechanism to allow rupturing of the vial. 
     If the vial contained within the self-illuminating object is not accessible, either through manipulation of the outer casing, manipulation of a trigger mechanism that forms a portion of the surface of the outer casing, or through activation of a reverse trigger mechanism, then as discussed in more detail below, acceleration forces are imposed upon the object causing a vial containing one of the activator or fluorescer solutions to rupture as in step  108 . For example, if the object is a projectile that does not offer access to the vial contained within the projectile, then acceleration forces imposed upon the projectile causes the vial to rupture, thereby causing the activator and fluorescer solutions to mix. As such, the projectile is caused to self-illuminate during the projectile&#39;s trajectory to its intended target by virtue of the acceleration forces imposed upon the projectile as in step  108 . 
     If the object that is to be activated does not already contain the fluorescer solution and the activator solution, then a determination is made in step  110  as to whether the self-illuminating object is hard-bodied. If the object is soft-bodied as may be determined in step  110 , then a self-illuminating cartridge, as discussed in more detail below, may be selected in step  112  and manipulated to mix the fluorescer and activator solutions to cause the self-illuminating cartridge to emit visible light as in step  114 . The cartridge may then be inserted in step  114  into the cavity of the soft-body object to cause the soft-body object to emit visible light. 
     If a hard-body object is used, on the other hand, then injection of the fluorescer/activator solutions, or a self-illuminating cartridge, is utilized to produce emanation of light from the hard-body object. If a self-illuminating cartridge is used, as determined in step  116 , then a self-illuminating cartridge containing a fluorescer solution and an activator solution is utilized. Prior to activation, the fluorescer solution is kept separate from the activator solution by operation of a vial. 
     The outer casing of the self-illuminating cartridge may be composed of either of a rigid, or a flexible material. If the outer casing of the self-illuminating cartridge is flexible, then manipulation of the self-illuminating cartridge allows the vial to be ruptured as in step  118 . If, on the other hand, the outer casing of the self-illuminating cartridge is rigid, then a trigger mechanism that forms a portion of the outer casing of the self-illuminating cartridge allows the vial to be ruptured as in step  118 . Once the vial is ruptured, the activator solution is mixed with the fluorescer solution, which then causes the emission of visible light by the process of chemiluminescence as discussed above. 
     The self-illuminating cartridge may then be inserted into the inner cavity of the object, as in step  120 , and locked into place. The rigid casing of the object may be constructed using a transparent, or sufficiently translucent, composition so as to allow the emission of light from within the inner cavity of the object by the self-illuminating cartridge. As discussed above, the color of light emitted from within the object may be designed by appropriate selection of the fluorescer solution contained within the self-illuminating cartridge and/or appropriate selection of the color used for the outer surface of the object. 
     Conversely, if hard or soft body objects are being utilized and such objects are not pre-filled with both fluorescer and activator solutions, then injection of either the fluorescer solution, or the activator solution, may be necessary to activate the chemiluminescence. If the activator solution is injected, as determined in step  124 , then chemiluminescence of pre-determined colors is performed in step  126 , since the fluorescer solution already exists within the object thereby determining the color of light that is emanated from the object. 
     If fluorescer solution is injected instead of the activator solution, then chemiluminescence of custom colors may be performed as in step  128 . In particular, one or more injection ports may be used to individually inject fluorescer solution into the one or more sections of the objects that have been pre-filled with activator solution. In such instances, syringes, or flexible vials, containing the appropriate fluorescer solution may be utilized to create the desired color. As such, a variety of syringes/vials containing a corresponding variety of fluorescer solution selections may be kept on hand, so as to facilitate color experimentation within the objects to optimize performance under the prevailing circumstances. 
     Turning to  FIGS. 2D and 2E , a sports/entertainment device, such as a Hula Hoop® device, is adapted to cause self-illumination of portion(s)  218 , as exemplified in  FIG. 2E , or the entire circumference, as exemplified in  FIG. 2D , of the Hula Hoop® object in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. In a first embodiment, for example, a flexible, elongated, self-illuminating packet  202 , as exemplified in  FIG. 2A , is utilized that includes an adhesion component to allow attachment of self-illuminating packet  202  to the external periphery of the Hula Hoop® object. Adhesion components, such as a Velcro® mechanism, a zipper mechanism, a channel mechanism, or adhesive components may be applied to the back portion of self-illuminating packet  202  so as to facilitate attachment of self-illuminating packet  202  to the Hula Hoop® object. Should a Velcro®, zipper, or channel mechanism be used, a variety of self-illuminating packets  202  may be interchanged as necessary to maintain the desired intensity or desired color. In particular, one or more of a variety of self-illuminating packets may be caused to self-illuminate as in steps  102 - 106  of  FIG. 1  and then applied to portion(s)  218 , or the entire periphery, of the Hula Hoop® object to make the Hula Hoop® object self-illuminate. 
     Turning to  FIG. 2B , an exemplary zipper mechanism is illustrated, whereby either of a length of zipper portion  204  or a length of zipper portion  206  may be attached to the back side of self-illuminating packet  202 . The mating portion may then be fastened to portions of the periphery of the Hula Hoop® object, so as to allow engagement of male member  208  of zipper portion  204  with female member  210  of zipper portion  206 . Once mated, zipper portions  204  and  206  remain temporarily engaged so as to maintain the attachment of self-illuminating packet  202  to the Hula Hoop® object. 
     Turning to  FIG. 2F , an exemplary channel mechanism is illustrated, whereby channel  250  is formed along the back side of self-illuminating packet  202 . As discussed in more detail below, objects receiving self-illuminating packet  202  may employ a mating portion so as to allow a frictional engagement between the mating portion of the object and channel  250 . Once mated, self-illuminating packet  202  remains temporarily engaged to the mating portion of the object so as to maintain the attachment of self-illuminating packet  202  to the object. 
     In an alternate embodiment, internal channel  228  may be formed between walls  230  of the Hula Hoop® object as illustrated in  FIG. 2C . Interior channel  228  may then be pre-filled with either of a fluorescer, or an activator, solution that is caused to self-illuminate by the injection of either of an activator, or a fluorescer, solution, respectively, as in steps  124 - 128  of  FIG. 1 . The injection may be facilitated, for example, by applying pressure in direction  214  on flexible vial  212 , as illustrated in  FIG. 2D , so as to cause the solution contained within vial  212  to be injected into internal channel  228  of the Hula Hoop® object. 
     In other embodiments, the Hula Hoop® object may be pre-filled with both an activator solution and a fluorescer solution that are kept separate through use of vial  224  as illustrated in  FIG. 2C . Vial  224  may be affixed to an inner portion of wall  230  of the Hula Hoop® object so as to facilitate rupture of the vial using tactile depression of trigger  220  as in steps  102 - 106  of  FIG. 1 . In particular, surface  226  of trigger  220  forms a portion of the outer surface of the Hula Hoop® object and is sufficiently pliable so as to allow depression of trigger  220  to engage vial  224 . Applying a sufficient amount of force upon surface  226  causes trigger  220  to rupture vial  224 , which then allows the activator and fluorescer solutions to mix. The mixed solutions then cause internal channel  228  to emit visible light, which in turn causes the Hula Hoop® object to self-illuminate. 
     In other embodiments, segregated interior channel portion(s) may be created within the Hula Hoop® object by use of separating walls  222  as illustrated in  FIG. 2C . The interior channel portion(s) may be pre-filled with the activator and fluorescer solutions, wherein the activator and fluorescer solutions are kept separate by vial(s)  224 . Applying a sufficient amount of force upon surface  226  causes trigger  220  to rupture vial  224 , which then allows the activator and fluorescer solutions to mix. The mixed solutions then cause only the segregated interior portions of the Hula Hoop® object to self-illuminate to create the self-illuminating effects as exemplified in relation to  FIG. 2E . 
     It is understood that the embodiments exemplified in  FIGS. 2D and 2E  may not necessarily represent Hula Hoop® objects. Instead,  FIGS. 2D and 2E  may exemplify any annular sports/entertainment object that may be caused to emanate visible light as discussed above. For example, the objects of  FIGS. 2D and 2E  may represent diving rings that are used in a swimming pool to mark dive targets for divers who are utilizing the swimming pool during nighttime, or otherwise dark conditions. 
     Turning to  FIGS. 3A and 3B , a sports/entertainment device, such as a Frisbee® object is exemplified, whereby similar to the objects of  FIGS. 2D and 2E , the entire periphery of the Frisbee® object, or a portion of the Frisbee® object, respectively, may be caused to self-illuminate in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. In a first embodiment, for example, flexible, elongated, self-illuminating packet  202 , as discussed above in relation to  FIG. 2A , is utilized that includes an adhesion component to allow attachment of self-illuminating packet  202  to the external periphery of the Frisbee® object. Adhesion components, such as a Velcro® mechanism, a zipper mechanism, a channel mechanism, or other adhesive mechanisms may be applied to the back portion of self-illuminating packet  202  so as to facilitate attachment of self-illuminating packet  202  to the Frisbee® object. Should a Velcro®, zipper, or channel mechanism be used, a variety of self-illuminating packets  202  may be interchanged as necessary to maintain the desired intensity or desired color. In particular, one or more of a variety of self-illuminating packets may be caused to self-illuminate as in steps  106 - 108  of  FIG. 1  and then applied to the entire periphery of the Frisbee® object to generate the self-illuminating effects as exemplified in  FIG. 3A . 
     Turning to  FIG. 3B , cavity  302  of the Frisbee® object may be formed and pre-filled with both an activator solution and a fluorescer solution, each being kept separate through use of a vial (not shown in  FIG. 3B , but similar to vial  224  as discussed above in relation to  FIG. 2C ). The vial may be affixed to an interior portion of cavity  302  so as to facilitate the rupturing of the vial using tactile depression of the trigger (not shown) as discussed above in relation to  FIG. 2C . Applying a sufficient amount of force upon the trigger causes the vial to rupture, which then allows the activator and fluorescer solutions to mix as in steps  102 - 106  of  FIG. 1 . The mixed solutions then cause cavity  302  of the Hula Hoop® object to self-illuminate as exemplified in  FIG. 3B . 
     In an alternate embodiment, the chemiluminescence of portion  302  may be activated by the introduction of an activator solution into portion  302 , which may be composed of a vinyl halide or a vinylidene halide polymer structure that incorporates one or more of the components of the fluorescer solution. In such an instance, portion  302  is capable of absorbing an activator solution, such as a mixture of hydrogen peroxide with a sodium salicylate catalyst, which mixes with the fluorescer components incorporated within portion  302  to cause emanation of visible light via chemiluminescence. Injection of the activator solution may be facilitated by rupturing a vial containing the activator solution through use of a trigger mechanism as discussed above in relation to  FIG. 2C , or conversely by depressing a flexible vial containing the activator solution as discussed above in relation to  FIG. 2D . 
     Turning to  FIG. 4 , a sports/entertainment device, such as football  400 , is exemplified, whereby similar to the objects of  FIGS. 2E and 3B , respectively, only a portion of the object may be caused to self-illuminate in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. In a first embodiment, for example, flexible, elongated, self-illuminating packet  202 , as discussed above in relation to  FIG. 2A , is utilized that includes an adhesion component to allow attachment of self-illuminating packet  202  to portions  402  of football  400 . Adhesion components, such as a Velcro® mechanism, a zipper mechanism, a channel mechanism, or other adhesive mechanisms may be applied to the back portion of self-illuminating packet  202  so as to facilitate attachment of self-illuminating packet  202  to portions  402  of football  400 . Should a Velcro®, zipper, or channel mechanism be used, a variety of self-illuminating packets  202  may be interchanged as necessary to maintain the desired intensity or desired color. In particular, one or more of a variety of self-illuminating packets may be caused to self-illuminate as in steps  102 - 106  of  FIG. 1  and then applied to portions  402  of football  400  to cause the self-illuminating effects as exemplified in  FIG. 4 . 
     Turning to  FIG. 5A , a sports/entertainment device, such as soccer ball  500 , is exemplified, whereby the entire sphere  502  of soccer ball  500  is caused to self-illuminate in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. In particular, sphere  502  is formed of a transparent or translucent material, such that all, or a portion of, the visible light emitted from globe  506 , as illustrated in  FIG. 5B , may pass through sphere  502  to allow soccer ball  500  to self-illuminate. 
     In one embodiment, for example, sphere  502  may contain an interior globe  506 , which may be pre-filled with either of a fluorescer, or an activator, solution that is caused to self-illuminate by the injection of either of an activator, or a fluorescer, solution, respectively, as in steps  124 - 128  of  FIG. 1 . The injection may be facilitated through the use of, e.g., flexible vial  212  as discussed above in relation to  FIG. 2D , by applying pressure in direction  214  on flexible vial  212  so as to cause the solution contained within vial  212  to be injected into globe  506  via channels  504 . 
     In such an instance, channels  504  serve two purposes. First, channels  504  provide structural support so as to maintain globe  506  to be substantially centered within sphere  502 . Second, channels  504  provide one-way injection ports  508 , to allow solution to be injected into globe  506 , via channels  504 , while preventing leakage of solution from globe  506  via channels  504 . Air bladders (not shown) may also be employed between the outer portions of globe  506  and the inner portions of sphere  502  to further maintain globe  506  substantially centered within sphere  502 . The air bladders are preferably either transparent, or at least translucent, so as to facilitate the emanation of visible light from sphere  502 , while also providing elasticity to the soccer ball. 
     In other embodiments, globe  506  of soccer ball  500  may be pre-filled with both an activator solution and a fluorescer solution that are kept separate through use of vial  510 . In such an instance, the walls of vial  510  may be composed of a material that is designed to rupture in response to exposure to a pre-determined amount of acceleration force imposed upon vial  510 . For example, soccer ball may be kicked with an amount of force that subjects vial  510  to an acceleration that is sufficient to rupture vial  510 , as in step  108  of  FIG. 1 , but insufficient to rupture globe  506 . The solutions within globe  506  are then caused to mix, which causes globe  506  to self-illuminate, which in turn causes the emanation of visible light from sphere  502  of soccer ball  500  subsequent to the kicking of soccer ball  500 . In such an instance, channels  504  function only to maintain globe  506  substantially centered within sphere  502 . In other embodiments, a transparent, or translucent, air bladder (not shown) may be employed between the outer portions of globe  506  and the inner portions of sphere  502  to maintain globe  506  substantially centered within sphere  502 , to provide elasticity to the soccer ball, and to facilitate the emanation of visible light from sphere  502 . 
     In alternate embodiments, one or more trigger mechanisms (not shown) similar to those discussed above in relation to  FIG. 2C  may be installed in place of injection ports  508 , where the trigger mechanisms form a portion of the outer surface of sphere  502 . In such an instance, one or more vials  510  may be attached to the inner walls of channels  504 , such that depression of the trigger mechanisms causes the vials to rupture as in steps  102 - 106  of  FIG. 1 . Solution contained within the vials is then allowed to propagate to globe  506  via channels  504 , which then mixes with the solution contained within globe  506  via channels  504  to cause globe  506  to self-illuminate. 
     As discussed above, globe  506  may instead be composed of a vinyl halide or a vinylidene halide polymer structure that incorporates one or more of the components of the fluorescer solution. Activator solution released by ruptured vials  510  is then absorbed by globe  506  to cause self-illumination of globe  506 . 
     Turning to  FIGS. 6A-6C , alternate embodiments of an acceleration-based, self-illuminating activation sporting/entertainment device is exemplified. In particular, pistol  602  is arranged to accept magazine  604 , which is filled with paint balls  606  having vials  608  displaced therein. As discussed above in relation to  FIG. 5B , the walls of vials  608  may be composed of a material that is designed to rupture in the existence of a pre-determined amount of acceleration force imposed upon vials  608 . 
     For example, pistol  602  may exert an acceleration force on paint ball  606  that is defined in equation (1) as: 
                     a   =       v   2       2   ⁢           ⁢   s         ,           (   1   )               
where a is the acceleration force imposed upon paint ball  606 , v is the muzzle velocity of paint ball  606 , and s is the barrel length of pistol  602 . Appropriate design of pistol  602  parameters, v and s, may cause a sufficient amount of acceleration force to rupture vial  608  when firing paint ball  606  from pistol  602 , as in step  108  of  FIG. 1 , but with insufficient acceleration force to rupture paint ball  606  due to the relative non-pliability of the outer surface of paint ball  606 . The solutions within paint ball  606  are then caused to mix, which causes paint ball  610  to self-illuminate, as illustrated in  FIG. 6B , which in turn causes a tracer effect to be exhibited by paint ball  610  along its trajectory.
 
     That is to say, in other words, that while paint balls  606  reside within magazine  604 , vials  608  remain intact, thus preventing the mixing of the activator and fluorescer solutions contained within paint balls  606 . Players utilizing the pistol assemblies of  FIGS. 6A and 6B  may, therefore, remain stealthy at night, or in other surroundings of darkness, since paintballs  606  are not yet self-illuminating. Upon the firing of paintball  610  from pistol  602 , however, acceleration forces in accordance with equation (1) that are sufficient to rupture vial  608 , but that are insufficient to rupture paint ball  606 , are exerted upon paint ball  610  as in step  108  of  FIG. 1 . While paint ball  610  is traversing its trajectory, paint ball  610  begins to self-illuminate, thereby creating a trace of light along the path of trajectory. Should the self-illuminating paintball find its intended target, as illustrated in  FIG. 6C , paintball  610  continues to self-illuminate after being ruptured upon impact with player  600 , thereby undeniably marking player  600  as having been scored upon. 
     Clothing  612 , as worn by player  600 , may be designed to absorb the activator and fluorescer solutions once paint ball  610  is ruptured. That is to say, in other words, that clothing  612  may be designed with high absorption properties so as to maintain the activator and fluorescer solutions in their respective liquid states for a prolonged duration of time after paint ball  610  ruptures upon impact with person  600 . In such an instance, continuation of the light emissions exhibited by the contents of paint ball  610  are facilitated by retarding the evaporation of the activator and fluorescer solutions through use of appropriately designed absorptive clothing  612 . 
     In an alternate embodiment, magazine  604  may instead be exposed to an amount of force, e.g., by shaking magazine  604 , that subjects vials  608  to an acceleration that is sufficient to rupture vials  608 , as in step  108  of  FIG. 1 , but insufficient to rupture paint balls  606  due to the relative non-pliability of the outer surface of paint balls  606 . The solutions within paint balls  606  are then caused to mix, which causes paint balls  606  to self-illuminate, which in turn causes the emanation of visible light from paint balls  606 . By designing magazine  604  to be non-transparent and non-translucent, visible light is prevented from being emanated by magazine  604  after activation of paint balls  606  contained therein. As such, players utilizing the pistol assemblies of  FIGS. 6A and 6B  may, therefore, remain stealthy at night, or in other surroundings of darkness, since despite the self-emanation of visible light from paintballs  606 , magazine  604  prevents visibility of paint balls  606 . Only when paintballs  606  are fired, do they cause the tracer effects as discussed above. 
     In other embodiments as illustrated in  FIG. 6D , a trigger mechanism may instead be employed. In particular, paint ball  606  may be pre-filled with both an activator solution and a fluorescer solution that are kept separate through use of vial  608 . Vial  608  may be affixed to an inner portion of paint ball  606  via supports  616  so as to facilitate rupture of the vial using tactile depression of trigger  618  as in steps  102 - 106  of  FIG. 1 . In particular, surface  614  of trigger  618  forms a portion of the surface of paint ball  606  and is sufficiently pliable so as to allow depression of trigger  618  to engage vial  608 . Applying a sufficient amount of force upon surface  614  causes trigger  618  to rupture vial  608 , which then allows the activator and fluorescer solutions to mix. The mixed solutions then cause internal channel  620  of paint ball  606  to emit visible light, which in turn causes paint ball  606  to self-illuminate. Once self-illuminated, paint ball  606  may be inserted into the chamber of pistol  602  in preparation for firing. 
     Turning to  FIG. 7A , a sports/entertainment device, such as shuttlecock  700 , is exemplified, whereby the entire semi-sphere  702  of shuttlecock  700  is caused to self-illuminate in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. In particular, semi-sphere  702  is formed of a transparent or translucent material, such that all, or a portion of, the visible light emitted from globe  712  contained within semi-sphere  702 , as illustrated in  FIG. 7B , may pass through semi-sphere  702  to allow semi-sphere  702  to emanate visible light. 
     In one embodiment, semi-sphere  702  may contain interior globe  712 , which may be pre-filled with either of a fluorescer, or an activator, solution that is caused to self-illuminate by the injection of either of an activator, or a fluorescer, solution, respectively, as in steps  124 - 128  of  FIG. 1 . The injection may be facilitated through the use of, e.g., flexible vial  212  as discussed above in relation to  FIG. 2D , by applying pressure in direction  214  on flexible vial  212  so as to cause the solution contained within flexible vial  212  to be injected into globe  712  via channels  710  contained within semi-sphere  702 . In such an instance, channels  710  serve two purposes. First, channels  710  provide structural support so as to maintain globe  712  substantially centered within semi-sphere  702 . Second, channels  710  provide one-way injection ports  716 , to allow solution to be injected into globe  712 , via channels  710 , while preventing leakage of solution from globe  712  via channels  710 . Air bladders (not shown) may also be employed between the outer portions of globe  712  and the inner portions of semi-sphere  702  to further maintain globe  712  substantially centered within semi-sphere  702 . The air bladders are preferably either transparent, or translucent, so as to facilitate the emanation of visible light from semi-sphere  702 , while providing elasticity to semi-sphere  702 . 
     In other embodiments, globe  712  of shuttlecock  700  may be pre-filled with both an activator solution and a fluorescer solution that are kept separate through use of vial  714 . In such an instance, the walls of vial  714  may be composed of a material that is designed to rupture in response to exposure to a pre-determined amount of acceleration force imposed upon vial  714 . For example, shuttlecock  700  may be struck by racquet  730  with an amount of force that subjects vial  714  to an acceleration force that is sufficient to rupture vial  714 , as in step  108  of  FIG. 1 , but insufficient to rupture globe  712 . The solutions within globe  712  are then caused to mix, which causes globe  712  to self-illuminate, which in turn causes the emanation of visible light from semi-sphere  702  of shuttlecock  700  in response to the striking of shuttlecock  700  by racquet  730 . In such an instance, channels  710  function only to maintain globe  712  substantially centered within semi-sphere  702 . In other embodiments, a transparent, or translucent, bladder (not shown) may be employed between the outer portions of globe  712  and the inner portions of semi-sphere  702  to maintain globe  712  substantially centered within semi-sphere  702 , to provide elasticity to semi-sphere  702 , and to facilitate the emanation of visible light from semi-sphere  702 . 
     In alternate embodiments, one or more trigger mechanisms (not shown) similar to those discussed above in relation to  FIG. 2C  may be installed in place of injection ports  716 , where the trigger mechanisms form a portion of the outer surface of semi-sphere  702 . In such an instance, one or more vials  714  may be attached to the inner walls of channels  710 , such that depression of the trigger mechanisms causes the vials to rupture as in steps  102 - 106  of  FIG. 1 . Solution contained within the vials is then allowed to propagate to globe  712  via channels  710 , which then mixes with the solution contained within globe  712  via channels  710  to cause globe  712  to self-illuminate. 
     As discussed above, globe  712  may instead be composed of a vinyl halide or a vinylidene halide polymer structure that incorporates one or more of the components of the fluorescer solution. Activator solution released by ruptured vials  714  is then absorbed by globe  712  to cause self-illumination of globe  712 . 
     Turning to  FIG. 7C , racquet  730  may also be caused to emanate visible light as illustrated by employing similar mechanisms as discussed above in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. For example, frame  704  of racquet  730  may be manufactured as a hollow frame that exhibits transparent, or translucent, attributes. Further, handle  718  may similarly be formed of a hollow structure, where the cavity of frame  704  is in communication with the cavity of handle  718  to allow one of an activator, or fluorescer, solution to propagate throughout frame  704  and handle  718 . 
     Frame  704  may then be pre-filled with both an activator solution and a fluorescer solution that are kept separate through use of vial  724  as illustrated in  FIG. 7D . Vial  724  may be affixed to an inner portion of walls  722  of handle  718  so as to facilitate rupture of the vial using tactile depression of trigger  720  as in steps  102 - 106  of  FIG. 1 . In particular, surface  726  of trigger  720  forms a portion of the surface of handle  718  and is sufficiently pliable so as to allow depression of trigger  720  to engage vial  724 . Applying a sufficient amount of force upon surface  726  causes trigger  720  to rupture vial  724 , which then allows the activator and fluorescer solutions contained within handle  718  and frame  704  to mix. The mixed solutions then cause internal channel  728  to emit visible light, which in turn causes frame  704  and handle  718  of racquet  730  to self-illuminate. 
     Turning to  FIG. 7E , an illustration of an exemplary activity, such as the execution of a game of badminton, is exemplified, whereby racquets  730 , shuttlecock  700 , and net  760  are caused to emanate visible light in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. Portions  706  and  708  of net  760  may be caused to emanate visible light, for example, through the use of flexible, elongated, self-illuminating packet  202 , as discussed above in relation to  FIG. 2A . Self-illuminating packet  202  includes an adhesion component to allow attachment of self-illuminating packet  202  to portions  706  and  708  of net  760 . Adhesion components, such as a Velcro® mechanism, a zipper mechanism, a channel mechanism, or other adhesives may be applied to the back portion of self-illuminating packet  202  so as to facilitate attachment of self-illuminating packet  202  to portions  706  and  708  of net  760 . Should a Velcro®, zipper, or channel mechanism be used, a variety of self-illuminating packets  202  may be interchanged as necessary to maintain the desired intensity or desired color. In particular, one or more of a variety of self-illuminating packets may be caused to self-illuminate as in steps  102 - 106  of  FIG. 1  and then applied to portions  706  and  708  of net  760  to cause the self-illuminating effects of net  760  as exemplified in  FIG. 7E . 
     Turning to  FIG. 8A , an entertainment/sporting object such as fishing bobber  800  is implemented with hinged member  806 , so that upper portion  810  may be separated from lower portion  808 . In so doing, an inner cavity within fishing bobber  800  is exposed to accept self-illuminating cartridge  802  that may contain a fluorescer or activator solution, as well as vial  804  that contains an activator or fluorescer solution, respectively. Prior to activation, the two solutions are kept separate by operation of vial  804 . The outer casing of self-illuminating cartridge  802  may be composed of a flexible material, so as to allow manipulation of self-illuminating cartridge  802  to rupture vial  804  as in step  118  of  FIG. 1 . 
     In an alternate embodiment, the outer casing of self-illuminating cartridge  802  may be composed of a non-flexible, or rigid, material. In such an instance, manipulation of self-illuminating cartridge  802  does not rupture the vial contained within self-illuminating cartridge  802 . Instead, a trigger mechanism (not shown), as discussed above in relation to  FIG. 2C , that forms a portion of the surface of the outer casing of self-illuminating cartridge  802  allows vial  804  to be ruptured. Once vial  804  is ruptured, the solutions are allowed to mix, which then causes the emission of visible light by the process of chemiluminescence. In yet other embodiments, cartridge  802  may be configured with a subcutaneous layer and an inner core having varying degrees of buoyancy as discussed below, for example, in relation to  FIG. 12A . 
     Self-illuminating cartridge  802  may then be inserted into the inner cavity of fishing bobber  800 , as in step  120  of  FIG. 1 , and locked into place by engaging upper portion  810  with lower portion  808  via hinged member  806  as illustrated in  FIG. 8B . The rigid casing of fishing bobber  800  may be constructed using a transparent, or sufficiently translucent, composition so as to allow the emission of light from within the inner cavity of fishing bobber  800  by self-illuminating cartridge  802 . As discussed above, the color of light emitted from within fishing bobber  800  may be designed by appropriate selection of the fluorescer solution contained within self-illuminating cartridge  802 . 
     In alternate embodiments, the light emitted by self-illuminating cartridge  802  may include all visible spectrums of light, so that the color of light emitted by self-illuminating cartridge  802  is white. In such instances, fishing bobber  800  may be covered with a transparent, or sufficiently translucent, coating that is tinted in accordance with the color of light that is desired to be emitted by fishing bobber  800 . Accordingly, multiple luminescent effects and colors may be emitted by fishing bobber  800  of  FIG. 8B  upon activation of self-illuminating cartridge  802 . 
     In alternate embodiments, as discussed in more detail below in relation to  FIG. 12A , fishing bobber  800  may not employ hinged member  806 , but may instead be implemented as a single-piece unit. The single-piece unit exhibiting a subcutaneous layer that may be activated in accordance with the various embodiments discussed herein to cause fishing bobber  800  to self-illuminate. 
     In yet an alternate embodiment as illustrated in  FIG. 8C , upper portion  810  and/or lower portion  808  may contain a fluorescer or activator solution, as well as vials  854  and/or  858 , respectively, that contain either an activator or fluorescer solution, respectively. Prior to activation, the two solutions are kept separate by operation of vials  854  and/or  858 . Upon closure of upper portion  810  with lower portion  808  in direction  852 , compression forces between upper portion  810  and lower portion  808  engage trigger mechanisms  856  and/or  858 , thereby causing vials  854  and/or  858  to rupture. The solutions contained within upper portion  810  and/or lower portion  808  are then allowed to mix with solution contained within vials  854  and/or  858 , which then causes the emission of visible light by the process of chemiluminescence from upper and/or lower portions  810  and/or  808  as illustrated in  FIG. 8B . 
     Turning to  FIG. 9A , an entertainment/sporting object such as a self-illuminating fishing lure is exemplified that exhibits body parts that are detachable. In particular, soft-body fishing lure  900  may be comprised of attachable/detachable body parts  902  and  904 , whereby body part  904  may be pre-filled with fluorescer and activator solutions that are kept separate by operation of vial  906 . Upon manipulation of body part  904 , vial  906  is caused to be ruptured as in steps  102 - 106  of  FIG. 1 . The activator and fluorescer solutions are then caused to mix, which in turn causes tentacle portion  904  of soft-body fishing lure  900  to self-illuminate. Body parts  902  and  904  may then be attached, as illustrated in  FIG. 9B , to allow specific body portions of soft-body fishing lure  900  to emanate visible light by chemiluminescence as discussed above. It should be noted that virtually any body part of soft-body lure  900  may be designed to be attachable/detachable and subsequently caused to individually self-illuminate as discussed above. 
     In an alternate embodiment, as illustrated in  FIG. 9C , detachable portion  902  may be hollow, or may optionally contain core portion  908 , which creates subcutaneous layer  910  that exists between skin layer  914  and core portion  908 . In such an instance, vial  912  is either contained within the hollow portion of detachable portion  902 , or subcutaneous layer  910 , either of which is also filled with either of an activator or fluorescer solution. Core portion  908  may be a semi-rigid structure that provides rigidity to detachable portion  902  while also allowing detachable portion  902  to remain pliable so as to better emulate a prey fish. In other words, should skin layer  914  lack sufficient rigidity, core portion  908  may optionally be added to maintain an effective prey fish emulation. Core portion  908  may also be optionally added to press subcutaneous layer  910  against the inner portion of skin layer  914  as illustrated, so as to improve self-illumination properties of detachable portion  902 . Hook portion  916  may also be implemented as a pre-fabricated assembly with core portion  908 , so as to obviate the need to rig hook portion  916  through core portion  908 , thereby avoiding the possibility of rupturing subcutaneous layer  910  during the rigging process. 
     In alternate embodiments, a hollow channel (not shown) may be formed, which connects skin layer  914  to core portion  908  through subcutaneous layer  910 . As a result, hook portion  916  is not necessarily pre-fabricated with core portion  908 , but the hollow channel nevertheless facilitates rigging hook portion  916  into core portion  908  without the possibility of rupturing subcutaneous layer  910  during the rigging process. 
     Subcutaneous layer  910  may be pre-filled with both an activator solution and a fluorescer solution that are kept separate through use of vial  912 . Vial  912  may be affixed to an inner portion of skin layer  914 , or an outer portion of core  908 , so as to facilitate rupture by manipulation of vial  912  as in steps  102 - 106  of  FIG. 1 . The mixed solutions then cause subcutaneous layer  910  to emit visible light, which in turn causes self-illumination of subcutaneous layer  910 . It is noted that skin layer  914  may be composed of a transparent, or translucent, material so as to further enhance emanation of visible light from subcutaneous layer  910 . It is further noted that subcutaneous layer  910  may not extend around the entire circumference of core portion  908 . In such an instance, a subcutaneous packet is formed that is activated to emanate visible light from only a portion of detachable portion  902 . As a result, hook portion  916  may more easily be rigged into core portion  908  without the possibility of rupturing the subcutaneous packet during the rigging process. 
     Turning to  FIG. 9D , one or more subcutaneous packets  920  and/or  922  are further illustrated in relation to pliable fishing lure  950 , which in one embodiment, is exemplified as a plastic or rubber worm. As illustrated, hook portion  924  may be rigged into pliable fishing lure  950 , such that no danger exists that packets  920  and/or  922  are ruptured during the rigging process. Subcutaneous layer packets  920  and/or  922  may be pre-filled with both an activator solution and a fluorescer solution that are kept separate through use of a vial (not shown). The vial may be affixed to an inner portion of subcutaneous packets  920  and/or  922 , so as to facilitate rupture by manipulation of the vial, as in steps  102 - 106  of  FIG. 1 , through manipulation of the pliable outer surface of pliable fishing lure  950 . The mixed solutions then cause subcutaneous packets  920  and  922  to emit visible light, which in turn causes self-illumination of portions of pliable fishing lure  950  as illustrated. 
     In one embodiment, pliable fishing lure  950  may be manufactured with subcutaneous packets  920  and/or  922  already inserted. In other embodiments, pre-formed slots within pliable fishing lure  950  may be formed, so as to facilitate the insertion of subcutaneous packets  920  and/or  922  into pliable fishing lure  950  subsequent to the manufacture of pliable fishing lure  950 . In other embodiments, subcutaneous packets  920  and/or  922  may form an inner core to the pliable fishing lure  950 . For example, the subcutaneous packets may be shaped in the form of core  908  of  FIG. 9C , where the core itself is pre-filled with both an activator solution and a fluorescer solution that are kept separate through use of a vial (not shown). The vial may be affixed to an inner portion of core  908 , so as to facilitate rupture by manipulation of the vial, as in steps  102 - 106  of  FIG. 1 , through manipulation of the pliable outer surface of pliable fishing lure  950 . 
     Turning to  FIG. 9E , packet  930  may be contoured to inner portion  932  of fishing lure  975 , as illustrated in the cross-section view of fishing lure  975 . Contoured packet  930  may be pre-filled with both an activator solution, e.g., solution  934 , and a fluorescer solution (not shown) that are kept separate through use of a vial (not shown). The vial may be affixed to an inner portion of contoured packet  930 , so as to facilitate rupture by manipulation of the vial, as in steps  102 - 106  of  FIG. 1 , through manipulation of the pliable outer surface of pliable fishing lure  975 . The mixed solutions then cause contoured packet  930  to emit visible light, which in turn causes self-illumination of pliable fishing lure  975 . 
     It is noted that contoured packet  930  may be contoured to fit within the inner portion of virtually any pliable fishing lure made from, e.g., plastic or rubber, so as to better emulate the aesthetics of inner portion  932  of pliable fishing lure  975 . It is further noted that pliable fishing lure  975  may be manufactured with contoured packet  930  permanently inserted. Alternately, pre-formed slots within pliable fishing lure  975  may facilitate the insertion of contoured packet  930  into pliable fishing lure  975  subsequent to the manufacture of pliable fishing lure  975 . Accordingly, the interchangeability of contoured packet  930  within pliable fishing lure  975  is facilitated. 
     Turning to  FIG. 10 , an entertainment/sporting object such as soft-bodied, spiney ball  1000  is exemplified, whereby spiney ball  1000  may be pre-filled with fluorescer and activator solutions that are kept separate by operation of a vial (not shown). Upon manipulation of spiney ball  1000 , as in step  106  of  FIG. 1 , or conversely upon applying an acceleration force to spiney ball  1000 , as in step  108  of  FIG. 1 , the vial is caused to rupture. The activator and fluorescer solutions are then caused to mix, which in turn causes one or more tentacle portions  1002  of spiney ball  1000  to self-illuminate. It should be noted that one or more tentacle portions  1004  of spiney ball  1000  may not be composed of a transparent, or translucent, material, such that emanation of visible light is not possible from tentacle portions  1004 . It is further noted that the spiney ball  1000  may instead be entirely composed of a transparent, or translucent, material, such that emanation of visible light from the entire periphery of spiney ball  1000  is provided. 
     Turning to  FIG. 11A , an entertainment/sporting object such as spiney hat  1100  is exemplified, whereby tentacles  1102  of spiney hat  1100  may be pre-filled with either of a fluorescer, or an activator solution. Button  1104  may similarly be filled with either of an activator, or fluorescer, solution, respectively. Button  1104  and tentacles  1102  may be in adaptive communication, such that channels (not shown) within tentacles  1102  may be caused to receive the solution contained within button  1104  once the vial (not shown) that is contained within button  1104  is ruptured by tactile manipulation of the trigger mechanism (not shown) contained within button  1104 . In such an instance, manipulation of the trigger mechanism of button  1104 , as in step  106  of  FIG. 1 , causes the vial to be ruptured, which releases solution contained within the vial to be released into the channels of tentacles  1102 . The activator and fluorescer solutions are then caused to mix, which in turn causes all or portions of tentacles  1002  to self-illuminate. 
     In alternate embodiments, a sports/entertainment/safety device, such as hat  1150 , is adapted to cause self-illumination of portion(s)  1106  and/or  1108 , as exemplified in  FIG. 11B , in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. For example, a flexible, elongated self-illuminating packet  202 , as exemplified in  FIG. 2A , is utilized that includes an adhesion component to allow attachment of self-illuminating packet  202  to brim portion  1108  of hat  1150  and/or to the top portion  1106  of hat  1150 . Adhesion components, such as a Velcro® mechanism, a zipper mechanism, a channel mechanism, or other adhesives may be applied to the back portion of self-illuminating packet  202  so as to facilitate attachment of self-illuminating packet  202  to the one or more portions of hat  1150 . Should a Velcro®, zipper, or channel mechanism be used, a variety of self-illuminating packets  202  may be interchanged as necessary to maintain the desired intensity or desired color. In particular, one or more of a variety of self-illuminating packets may be caused to self-illuminate as in steps  102 - 106  of  FIG. 1  and then applied to portion(s)  1106  and/or  1108 , to make the corresponding portions of hat  1150  self-illuminate. 
     In alternate embodiments, as exemplified in  FIG. 12A , subcutaneous layer  1208  existing between skin layer  1202  and bladder  1204  is utilized to form the self-illuminating component, instead of, e.g., the self-illuminating globes of  FIGS. 5B and 7B . Bladder  1204  may be a substantially hollow object that is filled with air to provide sufficient elasticity and/or positive buoyancy as may be required by the entertainment/sporting/safety devices described herein. Alternately, bladder  1204  may be a substantially solid object having positive buoyant characteristics, such as styrofoam or cork. In other embodiments, bladder  1204  may be a substantially solid object having negative buoyant characteristics, such as lead or steel. Still other embodiments allow bladder  1204  to take on neutral buoyancy characteristics, such that the entertainment/sporting/safety devices described herein may maintain a certain depth when utilized below the surface of a body of water. 
     Generally speaking, the inner core, e.g., bladder  1204 , of the various entertainment/sporting/safety devices described herein may provide any variation of negative, positive, or neutral buoyancy characteristics as may be required by any application. The inner core may contain more than one layers, or conversely, more than one inner cores may be utilized to produce the desired effects. The inner core may also take on various degrees of pliability, e.g., stiff or soft, depending upon the particular application. In any event, bladder  1204  may also be utilized to press subcutaneous layer  1208  against the inner portion of skin layer  1202  as illustrated so as to enhance the emanation of visible light from skin layer  1202 . In addition, subcutaneous layer  1208  may take on varying depths, or thicknesses, so as to provide the correct self-illumination characteristics as desired. 
     Subcutaneous layer  1208  may be pre-filled with both an activator solution and a fluorescer solution that are kept separate through use of vial  1206 . Vial  1206  may be affixed to an inner portion of skin layer  1202  so as to facilitate rupture by manipulation of vial  1206  as in steps  102 - 106  of  FIG. 1 . In particular, a force in direction  1210  may be imposed upon the surface of skin layer  1202  to rupture vial  1206 , which then allows the activator and fluorescer solutions to mix within subcutaneous layer  1208 . The mixed solutions then cause subcutaneous layer  1208  to emit visible light, which in turn causes self-illumination of the various sports/entertainment/safety objects that may contain a subcutaneous layer, such as exemplified in the various embodiments of the present invention provided herein. 
     It is noted that skin layer  1202  may be composed of a transparent, or translucent, material so as to allow emanation of visible light from subcutaneous layer  1208 . It is further noted that similar subcutaneous layers may be established within other non-spherical sports/entertainment/safety objects, such as exemplified in the various embodiments of the present invention provided herein. 
     In alternate embodiments, skin layer  1202  may not be sufficiently pliable so as to allow vial  1206  to be ruptured by manipulation of skin layer  1202 . In such instances, vial  1206  may be affixed to an inner portion of subcutaneous layer  1208  so as to facilitate rupture of vial  1206  using tactile depression of trigger  1220  as in steps  102 - 106  of  FIG. 1 . In particular, surface  1222  of trigger  1220  forms a portion of skin layer  1202  and is sufficiently pliable so as to allow depression of trigger  1220  to engage vial  1206 . Applying a sufficient amount of force upon surface  1222  causes trigger  1220  to rupture vial  1206 , which then allows the activator and fluorescer solutions to mix. The mixed solutions then cause subcutaneous layer  1208  to emit visible light, which in turn causes the object of  FIG. 12A  to self-illuminate. 
     Turning to  FIG. 13A , an alternate embodiment of a sports/entertainment device is illustrated, whereby a rigid spherical object  1308  may be caused to emanate visible light in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. In one embodiment, the rigid spherical object may be used as a fishing bead that is utilized to emulate the existence of a fish egg, whereby fishing line  1302 , and/or hook  1304 , is utilized within hollow channel  1306  of the fishing bead to attach the fishing bead to fishing line  1302  and/or hook  1304 . In other embodiments, use of a multiplicity of rigid spherical objects  1308  may instead facilitate the manufacture of a necklace, whereby the plurality of beads are similarly attached to the necklace by stringing the beads together. 
     Spherical object  1308  may be pre-filled with both an activator solution and a fluorescer solution that are kept separate through use of a vial (not shown). Spherical object  1308  may then be subjected to an acceleration force, such as by shaking fishing bead  1308  or striking fishing bead  1308  against a hard surface, as in step  108  of  FIG. 1 , to rupture the vial. 
     Alternately, a trigger mechanism, such as illustrated in  FIG. 13B , may instead be employed. In particular, object  1308  may be pre-filled with both an activator solution and a fluorescer solution that are kept separate through use of vial  1314 . Vial  1314  may be affixed to an inner portion of object  1308  via, e.g., supports  1316 , so as to facilitate rupture of the vial using tactile depression of trigger  1318  as in steps  102 - 106  of  FIG. 1 . In particular, surface  1320  of trigger  1318  forms a portion of the surface of object  1308  and is sufficiently pliable so as to allow depression of trigger  1318  to engage vial  1314 . Applying a sufficient amount of force upon surface  1320  causes trigger  1318  to rupture vial  1314 , which then allows the activator and fluorescer solutions to mix within cavity portion  1312 . The mixed solutions then cause object  1308  to emit visible light. In alternate embodiments, trigger  1318  is an optional component, such that the pliability of a portion of the surface of object  1308  facilitates the rupture of vial  1314  by depression of the portion of the surface of object  1308 . 
     In an alternate embodiment, fishing bead  1308  may exhibit upper and lower portions that are hinged in a manner that is similar to the fishing bobber illustrated, for example, in  FIG. 8C . In addition, the upper and/or lower portions of fishing bead  1308  may also include the clasp-activated trigger mechanism(s) as also discussed above in relation to  FIG. 8C . In such an instance, fishing bead  1308  may attach to fishing line  1302  and/or hook  1304  by clasping the upper and lower portions of fishing bead  1308  around fishing line  1302  and/or hook  1304 . The clasping action further engages the trigger(s) (not shown) to rupture the vial(s) (not shown) to cause mixing of the activator and fluorescer solutions within the upper and/or lower portions of fishing bead  1308  to emit visible light from fishing bead  1308  by chemiluminescence. 
     Each of the fishing bead embodiments discussed above in relation to  FIGS. 13A-13B  may also be employed within the jig head style fishing lure of  FIG. 13C , whereby eye portion  1324  and/or bead portion  1322  may be caused to emanate visible light by chemiluminescence as discussed herein. Weight portion  1326  may also be implemented to provide the jig head style fishing lure of  FIG. 13C  with appropriate buoyancy characteristics, such that use of hook portion  1328  in combination with synthetic worms (e.g., for use in fresh water) or synthetic squids (e.g., for use in salt water) may cause the fishing lure to sink to an appropriate depth of water during fishing operations. 
     Turning to  FIGS. 14-17 , various other embodiments of self-illuminating sports/entertainment/safety devices are exemplified. In  FIGS. 14A and 14B , for example, a jump rope device is exemplified, whereby rope portion  1402 , and/or handle portion  1404 , is caused to emanate visible light in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. In particular, rope portion  1402  and/or handle portions  1404  may be pre-filled with fluorescer and activator solutions that are kept separate by operation of a vial (not shown). Upon manipulation of rope portion  1402 , as in step  106  of  FIG. 1 , and/or upon activation of a trigger mechanism (not shown, but similar to the trigger mechanisms discussed herein) within handle portion  1404 , the vial(s) may be caused to rupture. The activator and fluorescer solutions are then caused to mix, which in turn causes rope portion  1402  and/or handle portions  1404  to self-illuminate. 
     Turning to  FIG. 15 , various portions  1502  and  1504  of mask  1500  are caused to emanate visible light in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. In particular, hair portion  1502  and/or eye portions  1504  may be pre-filled with fluorescer and activator solutions that are kept separate by operation of a vial (not shown). Upon manipulation of hair portion  1502 , as in step  106  of  FIG. 1 , or upon activation of a trigger mechanism (not shown) within eye portions  1504 , the vial(s) may be caused to rupture. The activator and fluorescer solutions are then caused to mix, which in turn causes hair portion  1502  and/or eye portions  1504  to self-illuminate. 
     Facial features  1506  may further be caused to emanate visible light from mask  1500  by incorporation of a subcutaneous layer (not shown). The subcutaneous layer may be pre-filled with both an activator solution and a fluorescer solution that are kept separate through use of a vial (not shown). The vial may be affixed to an inner portion of the subcutaneous layer so as to facilitate rupture by manipulation of the vial as in steps  102 - 106  of  FIG. 1 . 
     In alternate embodiments, the subcutaneous layer of mask  1500  may be pre-filled with either of a fluorescer, or an activator, solution that is caused to self-illuminate by the injection of either of an activator, or a fluorescer, solution, respectively, as in steps  124 - 128  of  FIG. 1 . The injection may be facilitated, for example, by applying pressure in direction  214  on flexible vial  212 , as illustrated in  FIG. 2D , so as to cause the solution contained within vial  212  to be injected into the subcutaneous layer of mask  1500  via injection ports (not shown) of mask  1500 . 
     Turning to  FIGS. 16A-16C , alternate embodiments of self-illuminating sports/entertainment equipment are exemplified, whereby horseshoes, lawn darts, and hockey pucks, for example, are caused to emanate visible light in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. Each of the objects of  FIGS. 16A-16C  incorporate an internal channel  1628  that may be pre-filled with both an activator solution and a fluorescer solution that are kept separate through use of vial  1624  as illustrated in  FIG. 16D , which is representative of a cross-section of each of the objects of  FIGS. 16A-16C . Vial  1624  may be affixed to an inner portion of wall  1630  so as to facilitate rupture of the vial using tactile depression of trigger  1620  as in steps  102 - 106  of  FIG. 1 . In particular, surface  1602  of trigger  1620  forms a portion of the outer surface of the objects of  FIGS. 16A-16C  and is sufficiently pliable so as to allow depression of trigger  1620  to engage vial  1624 . Applying a sufficient amount of force upon surface  1602  causes trigger  1620  to rupture vial  1624 , which then allows the activator and fluorescer solutions to mix within internal channel  1628 . The mixed solutions then cause internal channel  1628  to emit visible light, which in turn causes the respective objects to self-illuminate. 
     In alternate embodiments, the walls of vial  1624  may be composed of a material that is designed to rupture in response to exposure to a pre-determined amount of acceleration force imposed upon vial  1624 . For example, the horseshoe of  FIG. 16A  or the lawn dart of  FIG. 16B  may be thrown and subsequently land with such an amount of force that subjects vial  1624  to a deceleration force that is sufficient to rupture vial  1624 , as in step  108  of  FIG. 1 . The solutions within internal channel  1628  are then caused to mix, which causes internal channel  1628  to self-illuminate, which in turn causes the emanation of visible light from the objects of  FIGS. 16A-16C . 
     Turning to  FIGS. 17A-17B , alternate embodiments of self-illuminating safety equipment are exemplified, whereby safety glasses  1700  and safety stickers  1750 , for example, are caused to emanate visible light in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. In a first embodiment, for example, a flexible, elongated self-illuminating packet  202 , as exemplified in  FIG. 2A , is utilized that includes an adhesion component to allow attachment of self-illuminating packet  202  to frame portion  1702  of safety glasses  1700 . Adhesion components, such as a Velcro® mechanism, a zipper mechanism, a channel mechanism, or other adhesives may be applied to the back portion of self-illuminating packet  202  so as to facilitate attachment of self-illuminating packet  202  to safety glasses  1700 . Should a Velcro®, zipper, or channel mechanism be used, a variety of self-illuminating packets  202  may be interchanged as necessary to maintain the desired intensity or desired color. In particular, one or more of a variety of self-illuminating packets may be caused to self-illuminate as in steps  102 - 106  of  FIG. 1  and then applied to frame portion(s)  1702  of safety glasses  1700  to make safety glasses  1700  self-illuminate. 
       FIG. 17B  exemplifies alternate embodiments of self-illuminating packet  202 , whereby instead of the elongated structure of self-illuminating packet  202 , safety stickers shaped in the form of, e.g., star  1704 , heart  1706 , smiling face  1708 , etc., are provided. An adhesion component is provided to allow attachment of safety stickers  1750  to various body parts and/or articles of clothing worn by persons who wish to be visible at night or in otherwise dark surroundings. Adhesion components, such as a Velcro® mechanism, a zipper mechanism, or a channel mechanism may be applied to the back portion of safety stickers  1750  so as to facilitate attachment of safety stickers  1750  to their respective recipients, e.g., children. A variety of safety stickers  1750  may be caused to emanate visible light, as in steps  102 - 106  of  FIG. 1 , and interchanged as necessary to maintain the desired intensity and/or desired color of, e.g., children, so as to allow the children to be sufficiently visible during nighttime activities, or other activities taking place in otherwise darkened conditions. 
     Turning to  FIGS. 18A-18C , alternate embodiments of a self-illuminating sports/entertainment device in accordance with the present invention are illustrated. The devices of  FIGS. 18A-18C  are not spherically shaped, but are rather shaped in the form of prey and are designed to spin along the axis formed by fishing line  1830  when immersed in a current of water, such as may be produced when the device is immersed into a running stream of water, or when the device is pulled through still water from a moving boat. In such an instance, fishing line  1830  passes through a hollow channel (not shown) of the device. 
     Self-illuminating device  1802  and wings  1818  of  FIG. 18A  may be pre-filled with both an activator solution and a fluorescer solution that are kept separate through use of vial(s)  1808 . Vial(s)  1808  may be affixed to inner portions of device  1802 /wings  1818  via, e.g., supports  1816 , so as to facilitate rupture of vial(s)  1808  using tactile depression of trigger  1806  as in steps  102 - 106  of  FIG. 1 . In particular, surface  1804  of trigger  1806  forms a portion of the surface of device  1802  and wings  1818  and exhibits greater pliability as compared to the remaining surface area of device  1802  and wings  1818 , so as to allow depression of trigger  1806  to engage vial(s)  1808 . Applying a sufficient amount of force upon surface  1804  causes trigger  1806  to rupture vial  1808 , which then allows the activator and fluorescer solutions to mix within cavity portions  1810  of device  1802  and wings  1818 . The mixed solutions then cause device  1802  and wings  1818  to emit visible light as illustrated in  FIG. 18A . In alternate embodiments, trigger  1806  is an optional component for device  1802  and wings  1818 , such that the pliability of a portion, or the entire, surface of device  1802  and wings  1818  facilitates the rupture of vial  1808  by depression of the portion of the surface of device  1802  and wings  1818 . 
     It is noted that wings  1818  and device  1802  may employ mechanisms (not shown) to allow detachment of wings  1818  from device  1802 . As such, a variety of wings that exhibit the self-illumination of varied colors of light may be interchanged to determine the most successful combination of colors so as to maximize the attraction to predator fish. 
     Turning to  FIG. 18B , an alternate embodiment of self-illuminating device  1820  is illustrated, whereby subcutaneous layer  1812  exists between skin layer  1822  and bladder  1824 . Bladder  1824  may be a substantially hollow object that is filled with air to provide sufficient elasticity and/or buoyancy. Alternatively, bladder  1824  may be a substantially solid object having buoyant characteristics, such as cork, or a relatively non-buoyant solid to allow device  1820  to operate at depth. In any event, bladder  1824  is utilized to press subcutaneous layer  1812  against the inner portion of skin layer  1822  as illustrated so as to enhance the emanation of visible light from skin layer  1822 . 
     Subcutaneous layer  1812  may be pre-filled with both an activator solution and a fluorescer solution that are kept separate through use of vial  1808 . Vial  1808  may be affixed to an inner portion of skin layer  1822  so as to facilitate rupture by manipulation of vial  1808  as in steps  102 - 106  of  FIG. 1 . In particular, a force may be imposed upon the surface of skin layer  1822  to rupture vial  1808 , which then allows the activator and fluorescer solutions to mix within subcutaneous layer  1812 . The mixed solutions then cause subcutaneous layer  1812  to emit visible light, which in turn causes self-illumination. It is noted that skin layer  1822  may be composed of a transparent, or translucent, material so as to allow emanation of visible light from subcutaneous layer  1812 . In alternate embodiments of  FIG. 18B , a trigger mechanism similar to trigger mechanism  1806  of  FIG. 18A  may optionally be used to rupture vial  1808  should skin layer  1822  be implemented as a rigid component, i.e., not sufficiently pliable to allow rupture of vial  1808  without trigger mechanism  1806 . 
     Turning to  FIG. 18C , an alternate embodiment of self-illuminating device  1826  is illustrated, whereby grooves  1814  etched into device  1826  obviate the need for wings  1818 . That is to say, in other words, that grooves  1814  are designed to cause device  1826  to spin along the axis formed by fishing line  1830  when device  1826  is immersed into a current of water, such as may be produced when device  1826  is immersed into a running stream of water, or when device  1826  is pulled through still water from a moving boat. Wings  1818  may, however, be added to device  1826  to enhance the illusion that device  1826  is prey, or to enhance the spin qualities of device  1826 . In addition, device  1826  may either employ the trigger mechanism of  FIG. 18A , the subcutaneous layer arrangement of  FIG. 18B , or both, in order to cause self-illumination of device  1826 . 
     Turning to  FIGS. 19A-19B , alternate embodiments of a self-illuminating sports/entertainment device in accordance with the present invention are illustrated. The devices of  FIGS. 19A-19B  are spherically shaped and are designed to maintain buoyancy of a fishing lure (not shown) that is attached to fishing line  1902 , whereby fishing line  1902  passes through a hollow channel (not shown) of device  1900 . Bladder  1904 , for example, may either be filled with air or a buoyant solid such as cork, in order to provide adequate buoyancy to maintain device  1900  afloat. 
     Self-illuminating device  1900  may be pre-filled with both an activator solution and a fluorescer solution that are kept separate through use of vial  1908 . Vial  1908  may be affixed to inner portions of device  1900  via, e.g., supports  1910 , so as to facilitate rupture of vial  1908  using tactile depression of trigger  1912  as in steps  102 - 106  of  FIG. 1 . In particular, surface  1914  of trigger  1912  forms a portion of the surface of device  1900  and exhibits greater pliability as compared to the remaining surface area of device  1900  so as to allow depression of trigger  1912  to engage vial  1908 . Applying a sufficient amount of force upon surface  1914  causes trigger  1912  to rupture vial  1908 , which then allows the activator and fluorescer solutions to mix within cavity portion  1906 . The mixed solutions then cause device  1900  to emit visible light as illustrated in  FIG. 19A . 
     Turning to  FIG. 19B , an alternate embodiment of self-illuminating device  1950  is illustrated, whereby subcutaneous layer  1952  exists between skin layer  1954  and bladder  1904 . As discussed above in relation to  FIG. 19A , bladder  1904  may be a substantially hollow object that is filled with air to provide sufficient elasticity and/or buoyancy. Alternatively, bladder  1904  may be a substantially solid object having buoyant characteristics, such as cork. In any event, bladder  1904  is utilized to press subcutaneous layer  1952  against the inner portion of skin layer  1954  as illustrated so as to enhance the emanation of visible light from skin layer  1954 . 
     Subcutaneous layer  1952  may be pre-filled with both an activator solution and a fluorescer solution that are kept separate through use of vial  1908 . Vial  1908  may be affixed to an inner portion of skin layer  1954  so as to facilitate rupture by manipulation of vial  1908  as in steps  102 - 106  of  FIG. 1 . In particular, a force may be imposed upon the surface of skin layer  1954  to rupture vial  1908 , which then allows the activator and fluorescer solutions to mix within subcutaneous layer  1952 . The mixed solutions then cause subcutaneous layer  1952  to emit visible light, which in turn causes self-illumination. It is noted that skin layer  1952  may be composed of a transparent, or translucent, material so as to allow emanation of visible light from subcutaneous layer  1952 . In alternate embodiments of  FIG. 19B , an optional trigger mechanism similar to trigger mechanism  1912  of  FIG. 19A  may be used to rupture vial  1908  should skin layer  1954  be implemented as a rigid component, i.e., not sufficiently pliable to allow rupture of vial  1908  without trigger mechanism  1912 . 
     Turning to  FIGS. 20A-20B , alternate embodiments of a self-illuminating sports/entertainment device in accordance with the present invention are illustrated. The devices of  FIGS. 20A-20B  are cylindrically shaped and are designed to maintain buoyancy of a fishing lure (not shown) that is attached to fishing line  2002 , whereby fishing line  2002  passes through a hollow channel (not shown) of device  2000 . Cylinder  2004 , for example, may either be filled with air or a buoyant solid such as cork, in order to provide adequate buoyancy to maintain device  2000  afloat. 
     Self-illuminating device  2000  may be pre-filled with both an activator solution and a fluorescer solution that are kept separate through use of vial  2008 . Vial  2008  may be affixed to inner portions of device  2000  via, e.g., supports  2010 , so as to facilitate rupture of vial  2008  using tactile depression of trigger  2012  as in steps  102 - 106  of  FIG. 1 . In particular, surface  2014  of trigger  2012  forms a portion of the surface of device  2000  and exhibits greater pliability as compared to the remaining surface area of device  2000  so as to allow depression of trigger  2012  to engage vial  2008 . Applying a sufficient amount of force upon surface  2014  causes trigger  2012  to rupture vial  2008 , which then allows the activator and fluorescer solutions to mix within cavity portion  2006 . The mixed solutions then cause device  2000  to emit visible light as illustrated in  FIG. 20A . 
     Turning to  FIG. 20B , an alternate embodiment of self-illuminating device  2050  is illustrated, whereby subcutaneous layer  2052  exists between skin layer  2054  and bladder  2004 . As discussed above in relation to  FIG. 20A , bladder  2004  may be a substantially hollow object that is filled with air to provide sufficient elasticity and/or buoyancy. Alternatively, bladder  2004  may be a substantially solid object having buoyant characteristics, such as cork. In any event, bladder  2004  is utilized to press subcutaneous layer  2052  against the inner portion of skin layer  2054  as illustrated so as to enhance the emanation of visible light from skin layer  2054 . 
     Subcutaneous layer  2052  may be pre-filled with both an activator solution and a fluorescer solution that are kept separate through use of vial  2008 . Vial  2008  may be affixed to an inner portion of skin layer  2054  so as to facilitate rupture by manipulation of vial  2008  as in steps  102 - 106  of  FIG. 1 . In particular, a force may be imposed upon the surface of skin layer  2054  to rupture vial  2008 , which then allows the activator and fluorescer solutions to mix within subcutaneous layer  2052 . The mixed solutions then cause subcutaneous layer  2052  to emit visible light, which in turn causes self-illumination. It is noted that skin layer  2054  may be composed of a transparent, or translucent, material so as to allow emanation of visible light from subcutaneous layer  2052 . In alternate embodiments of  FIG. 20B , an optional trigger mechanism similar to trigger mechanism  2012  of  FIG. 20A  may be used to rupture vial  2008  should skin layer  2054  be implemented as a rigid component, i.e., not sufficiently pliable to allow rupture of vial  2008  without trigger mechanism  2012 . 
     Turning to  FIGS. 21A-21D , alternate embodiments of a self-illuminating sports/entertainment device in accordance with the present invention are illustrated. In particular, detachable chemiluminescent inserts are provided that allow interchangeability of chemiluminescent effects. Device  2100  illustrates, for example, fishing lure  2104  having a body portion that exhibits void  2102 . A plurality of chemiluminescent inserts  2120  may be interchangeably locked into void  2102  to provide fishing lure  2104  with a variety of chemiluminescent effects. 
     In one embodiment, fishing lure  2104  is shaped as a spoon lure, but other body shapes may also be employed. For example, fishing lure  2104  may instead be shaped as various types of fishing apparatus, such as a spinner blade, a diver, or flasher  2192  as illustrated, for example, in  FIG. 21E . In such instances, inserts  2120  exhibiting various shapes and sizes may be removable, or non-removable, as required to provide the fishing apparatus with a variety of chemiluminescent effects. In alternate embodiments, the inserts themselves may be shaped as body parts of the fishing apparatus, so that specific body parts of the fishing apparatus may be interchanged to exhibit a variety of chemiluminescent effects as desired. Various interchangeable and self-illuminating body parts are illustrated, for example, in  FIG. 21F  as interchangeable, self-illuminating body parts  2120 . As discussed in more detail below with respect to  FIGS. 31-32 , the chemiluminescence of interchangeable, self-illuminating body parts  2120  of  FIG. 21F  may be automatically triggered in response to the engagement of body parts  2120  to portions of the fishing apparatus, or conversely, may be triggered in accordance with various other embodiments as provided herein, e.g., trigger activated, acceleration activated, actuator means, etc. 
     The outer periphery of insert  2120  may include a temporary attachment mechanism, such as an extrusion (not shown) that matches a corresponding channel (not shown) of fishing lure  2104  that lies just inside void  2102 . By aligning the extrusion of insert  2120  with void  2102  and pressing insert  2120  into void  2102 , the extrusion and corresponding channel engage each other to create a mechanical friction that maintains insert  2120  within void  2102 . In order to replace insert  2120  with an alternate, insert  2120  may be removed from void  2102  by applying an opposite force from that which was used to engage insert  2120  within void  2102 . As such, fishing lure  2100  may take on any number of chemiluminescent effects simply by replacing chemiluminescent insert  2120  with other chemiluminescent inserts  2120  that exhibit a different color or intensity. In alternate embodiments, insert  2120  may be permanently affixed within void  2102 . 
     Chemiluminescent insert  2120  may be pre-filled with both an activator solution and a fluorescer solution that are kept separate through use of vial  2108 . Chemiluminescent insert  2120  is made from a transparent or translucent material, e.g., an extruded plastic, such that the solution contained within chemiluminescent insert  2120  is visible. Vial  2108  may be affixed to inner portions of insert  2120  via, e.g., supports  2110 , so as to facilitate rupture of vial  2108  using tactile depression of trigger  2112  as in steps  102 - 106  of  FIG. 1 . In alternate embodiments, vial  2108  may be manufactured such that a length of vial  2108  extends substantially throughout the full length of the inner portion of insert  2120 . Accordingly, the need for supports  2110  is obviated, since the inner portion of insert  2120  precludes shifting of vial  2108  during tactile depression of trigger  2112 . 
     In one embodiment, trigger  2112  may be formed as part of the inner portion of insert  2120  through the use of, e.g., a plastic extrusion mold, whereby the trigger is formed as an integral part of insert  2120 . In addition, trigger  2112  is not necessarily formed as a pointed extrusion, but rather may be formed as a blunted extrusion instead. In addition, trigger  2112  may be formed as a hollow extrusion having a cavity, whereby the cavity (not shown) inside trigger  2112  may be utilized to capture the gaseous emissions produced during the chemiluminescent reaction. Accordingly, a greater amount of solution may be used to fill insert  2120 , since trigger  2112  provides an exhaust means for the gaseous emissions, which obviates the requirement that insert  2120  contain other exhaust means, such as an air bubble that is used as a volume to absorb the gaseous emissions. 
     Surface  2114  of trigger  2112  forms a portion of the surface of insert  2120  and exhibits greater pliability as compared to the remaining surface area of insert  2120  so as to allow depression of trigger  2112  to engage vial  2108 . It is noted that the majority of the surface of insert  2120  is to remain substantially rigid, so as to facilitate use during fishing operations. As a result, only that portion of surface  2114  that is immediately adjacent to trigger  2112  is to remain sufficiently pliable, whereas the remaining surface area of insert  2120  remains rigid, i.e., substantially non-pliable. Applying a sufficient amount of force upon surface  2114  causes trigger  2112  to rupture vial  2108 , which then allows the activator and fluorescer solutions to mix within cavity portion  2106 . The mixed solutions then cause fishing lure  2104  to emit visible light as illustrated in  FIG. 21B . 
     In alternate embodiments, the surface of chemiluminescent insert  2120  may be sufficiently pliable so as to obviate the need for trigger  2112 . In such an instance, the surface of chemiluminescent insert  2120  may be manipulated in order to rupture vial  2108  to cause fishing lure  2104  to emit visible light as illustrated in  FIG. 21B . 
     Turning to  FIG. 21C , self-illuminating packet  202  of  FIG. 2F  is instead utilized to provide chemiluminescence of fishing lure  2178 . In particular, channel  250  that is formed along the back side of self-illuminating packet  202  engages the outer periphery of fishing lure  2178  to create a mechanical friction that maintains an attachment between self-illuminating packet  2176  and fishing lure  2178 . In order to replace self-illuminating packet  2176  with an alternate, self-illuminating packet  2176  may be removed from fishing lure  2178  by applying an opposite force from that which was used to engage self-illuminating packet  2176  with fishing lure  2178 . As such, fishing lure  2178  may take on any number of chemiluminescent effects simply by replacing self-illuminating packet  2176  with other self-illuminating packets  2176  that exhibit a different color or intensity. 
     Turning to  FIG. 21D , self-illuminating slip-on  2188  is instead utilized to provide chemiluminescence of fishing lure  2186 . In particular, self-illuminating slip-on  2188  engages the outer periphery of fishing lure  2186  by sliding over the outer circumference of fishing lure  2186  to create a mechanical friction that maintains the attachment between self-illuminating slip-on  2188  and fishing lure  2186 . In alternate embodiments, the zipper mechanism of  FIG. 2B  may instead be used to attach a self-illuminating packet, such as the packet of  FIG. 2A , to the outer periphery of fishing lure  2186 . 
     In order to replace self-illuminating slip-on  2188  with an alternate, self-illuminating slip-on  2188  may be removed from fishing lure  2186  by sliding self-illuminating slip-on  2188  in either direction  2190 . As such, fishing lure  2186  may take on any number of chemiluminescent effects simply by replacing self-illuminating slip-on  2188  with other self-illuminating slip-ons  2188  that exhibit a different color or intensity. It is noted that self-illuminating slip-on  2188  may be activated to emit visible light in accordance with the various embodiments presented herein. It is further noted that more than one slip-on  2188  may be utilized to further enhance the self-illumination of fishing lure  2186 . Still further, slip-on  2188  may represent a multi-colored or multi-faceted wrap that may be applied to fishing lure  2186 , so as to alter, modify, or otherwise enhance the illumination effects produced by fishing lure  2186 . 
     Turning to  FIGS. 22A-22B , alternate embodiments of self-illuminating inserts of a fishing lure system in accordance with the present invention are illustrated. In particular,  FIG. 22A  illustrates a fishing lure system comprised of hook portion  2202 , skirt portion  2204 , head portion  2208 , and spoon portion  2210 . As illustrated, skirt portion  2204  includes core portion  2206  that is made to self-illuminate in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. For example, core portion  2206  may be pre-filled with fluorescer and activator solutions that are caused to emanate visible light by actuation of a trigger mechanism (not shown) which operates in accordance with the various trigger activated devices discussed herein. In addition, head portion  2208  may also be pre-filled with fluorescer and activator solutions that are also caused to emanate visible light by actuation of a trigger mechanism (not shown). 
     In alternate embodiments, the surface of core portion  2206  and head portion  2208  may be sufficiently pliable so as to obviate the need for a trigger mechanism. In such an instance, the surface of core portion  2206  and head portion  2208  may be manipulated in order to rupture the vial to cause the emission of visible light. 
     Through self-illumination of core portion  2206 , skirt portion  2204  may exhibit a glowing effect once core portion  2206  is caused to emanate visible light. Head portion  2208  may similarly emanate visible light once activated, yielding fishing lure  2250  of  FIG. 22B  that emanates a plurality of spectrums of visible light to exhibit glow effects as illustrated that enhance the fishing lure&#39;s desirability to predator fish. Further enhancement is yielded when head portion  2208  is shaped in the form of a prey fish head as illustrated. 
     Attachment of the various components of the fishing lure system of  FIG. 22A  may be accomplished using any number of techniques, so long as the attachment means are temporary so as to allow interchangeability of the various components. Head portion  2208 , for example, may be fitted using mechanical friction to core portion  2206 , whereas a clasp mechanism (not shown) within core portion  2206  may be used to temporarily apply a mechanical friction between skirt portion  2204  and hook portion  2202 . In addition, head portion  2208  may be divided into two portions, as discussed above in relation to  FIGS. 8C and 13A , where each portion is hinged together so that head portion  2208  may be clamped onto spoon portion  2210 . 
     Turning to  FIG. 23 , an alternate embodiment of self-illuminating inserts of a fishing lure system in accordance with the present invention are illustrated. In particular, fishing lure  2300  illustrates a fishing lure system comprised of core portion  2306 , skirt portion  2310 , head portion  2308 , and spoon portion  2302 . Spoon portion  2302  may also comprise an insert  2304 . Conversely, spoon portion  2302  may comprise a detachable, self-illuminating packet, as discussed above in relation to  FIG. 2A , that attaches through any number of attachment means, e.g., a Velcro® mechanism, a zipper mechanism, a channel mechanism, or liquid agent. Each of core portion  2306 , head portion  2308 , spoon portion  2302 , and/or insert  2304  may be caused to emanate visible light by actuation of a trigger mechanism (not shown) which operates in accordance with the various trigger activated devices discussed herein. 
     In alternate embodiments, the surface of core portion  2306 , head portion  2308 , spoon portion  2302 , and/or insert  2304  may be sufficiently pliable so as to obviate the need for a trigger mechanism. In such an instance, the surface of core portion  2306 , head portion  2308 , spoon portion  2302 , and/or insert  2304  may be manipulated in order to rupture the vial to cause the emission of visible light. 
     It is noted that each of the various portions of fishing lure  2300  may be temporarily fitted together, as discussed above in relation to  FIGS. 22A-22B , to allow for the interchangeability of chemiluminescent effects. In addition, insert  2304  of spoon portion  2302  may operate as discussed above in relation to  FIGS. 21A-21B , whereby insert  2304  may be interchanged to modify the color of light emanated by spoon portion  2302 . Optionally, insert  2304  may be permanently affixed within the void of spoon portion  2302 . 
     Turning to  FIGS. 24A-24B , alternate embodiments of self-illuminating inserts of a fishing lure system in accordance with the present invention are illustrated. In particular, fishing lure  2400  illustrates a fishing lure system that incorporates a head portion  2404  that is similar to the fishing bead as discussed above in relation to  FIGS. 13A-13B  that is designed to emulate a prey fish egg. Accordingly, fishing bead  2402  may be pre-filled with fluorescer and activator solutions that are caused to mix by actuation of trigger mechanism  2404  to rupture vial  2406  which causes emanation of visible light in accordance with the various trigger activated devices discussed herein. It is noted that each of the various inserts of fishing lure  2400  may be temporarily fitted together, as discussed above in relation to  FIGS. 22A-22B and 23A-23B  to allow for the interchangeability of chemiluminescent effects. 
     For example, chemiluminescent spoon/spinner  2420  may be an interchangeable insert that may be pre-filled with both an activator solution and a fluorescer solution that are kept separate through use of vial  2408 . Vial  2408  may be affixed to inner portions of spoon/spinner  2420  via, e.g., supports  2410 , so as to facilitate rupture of vial  2408  using tactile depression of trigger  2412  as in steps  102 - 106  of  FIG. 1 . In particular, surface  2414  of trigger  2412  forms a portion of the surface of spoon/spinner  2420  and exhibits greater pliability as compared to the remaining surface area of spoon/spinner  2420  so as to allow depression of trigger  2412  to engage vial  2408 . Applying a sufficient amount of force upon surface  2414  causes trigger  2412  to rupture vial  2408 , which then allows the activator and fluorescer solutions to mix within cavity portion  2416 . The mixed solutions then cause spoon/spinner  2420  to emit visible light as illustrated in  FIG. 24B . In alternate embodiments, trigger  2412  is an optional component, such that the pliability of a portion, or all, of the surface of spoon/spinner  2420  facilitates the rupture of vial  2408 . In addition, fishing bead  2404  may be divided into two sections, where each section is hinged to clamp onto spoon/spinner  2420 . 
     Turning to  FIG. 25A , one embodiment of a self-illuminating emergency device is illustrated, whereby self-illumination automatically occurs when deployment of an emergency vessel is executed. In particular, object  2500  exemplifies a self-inflating life raft that is activated by “rip cord”  2508  that is similar to a rip cord that is utilized to activate, e.g., a parachute. In response to pulling rip cord  2508 , buoyancy panels  2510  forming the walls of life raft  2500 , buoyancy panels forming the floor (not shown), and self-erecting canopy  2504  are inflated to promote the sustenance of life while afloat. In addition, an emergency message board, which is generally attached to self-erecting canopy  2504  as illustrated, is caused to self-illuminate caption  2502 , thereby projecting an emergency message, e.g., “SOS”, through the use of visible light that is generated through chemiluminescent activation of captioned message  2502 . 
     Canister  2506 , for example, may typically be filled with a compressed gas, such as carbon dioxide, CO 2 , and may then be caused to release the compressed gas into buoyancy panels  2510  of life raft  2500 . In addition, self-erecting canopy  2504  is caused to self-inflate or otherwise self-deploy as illustrated, whereby supports  2572  located within the interior of life raft  2500  facilitate the erection of self-erecting canopy  2504  to remain deployed even during periods of inclement weather. In response, life raft  2500  becomes positively buoyant so as to maintain and protect the lives of those persons that occupy life raft  2500 . 
     In one embodiment, activation of the chemiluminescence of captioned message  2502  occurs simultaneously with the inflation of the buoyancy panels of life raft  2500  in response to the pulling of rip cord  2508 . Turning to  FIG. 25B , for example, a reverse trigger mechanism is illustrated, whereby interface  2562  mechanically engages with rip cord  2508 , so as to facilitate reverse activation of trigger mechanism  2552  when rip cord  2508  is pulled. 
     In particular, reverse activation cords  2560  mechanically engage rip cord  2508  via interface  2562 , whereby the pulling of rip cord  2508  causes reverse activation cords  2560  to move in direction  2564 . In response, surface  2558  is also caused to move in direction  2564 , whereby the interface between reverse activation cords  2560  and surface  2566  is such that surface  2566  maintains a substantially static position while surface  2558  moves in direction  2564 . As such, vial  2556  also moves in direction  2564  while trigger mechanism  2552  retains a substantially static position. Sufficient movement of vial  2556  towards trigger mechanism  2552  in direction  2564  causes vial  2556  to rupture, thereby releasing the chemiluminescent solution contained within vial  2556  to mix with the chemiluminescent solution contained within cavity  2554 . Since cavity  2554  and corresponding vial  2556 /trigger mechanism  2552  exists within each of the letters, numbers, designs, patterns, etc., of caption  2502 , then caption  2502  is caused to self-illuminate as illustrated in  FIG. 25A , thereby causing life raft  2500  to become more visible at night or in otherwise dark conditions. 
     In alternate embodiments, interface  2562  may not be directly coupled to rip cord  2508 . Instead, the interface illustrated in  FIG. 25C  may be utilized, whereby a portion of the energy utilized by expansion mechanisms  2570  to facilitate the extension of supports  2572  is also utilized to activate trigger mechanism  2552 . As discussed above, for example, pulling of rip cord  2508  causes self-inflation of buoyancy panels  2510 , as well as the self-inflation of canopy  2504 . In addition, supports  2572  are also inflated to extend the length of supports  2572 , thereby extending the height of canopy  2504 . 
     While the length of supports  2572  is extended, expansion mechanisms  2570  mechanically convert a portion of the energy that is utilized to extend the length of supports  2572  to energy that is utilized to exert a force on surface  2566  in direction  2574  as illustrated. In response, surface  2558  is caused to maintain a substantially static position while surface  2566  moves in direction  2574 . As such, trigger mechanism  2552  also moves in direction  2574  while vial  2556  retains a substantially static position. Sufficient movement of trigger mechanism  2552  towards vial  2556  in direction  2574  causes vial  2556  to rupture, thereby releasing the chemiluminescent solution contained within vial  2556  to mix with the chemiluminescent solution contained within cavity  2554 . Since cavity  2554  and corresponding vial  2556 /trigger mechanism  2552  exists within each of the letters, numbers, designs, patterns, etc., of caption  2502 , caption  2502  is caused to self-illuminate as exemplified in  FIG. 25A , thereby causing life raft  2500  to become more visible at night or in otherwise dark conditions. 
     In alternate embodiments, caption  2502  may be manually caused to self-illuminate as illustrated in  FIG. 25A , thereby causing life raft  2500  to become more visible at night or in otherwise dark conditions. In such an instance, a flexible, elongated self-illuminating packet  202 , as exemplified in  FIG. 2A , is instead utilized to form caption  2502  that includes an adhesion component to allow attachment of caption  2502  to the emergency message board of  FIG. 25A . Adhesion components, such as a Velcro® mechanism, a zipper mechanism, or a channel mechanism may be applied to the back portion of caption  2502  so as to facilitate attachment of caption  2502  to the emergency message board. As such, a variety of captions  2502  may be interchanged as necessary to maintain the desired intensity or desired color of the message conveyed by the emergency message board. In particular, one or more of a variety of captions  2502  may be caused to self-illuminate as in steps  102 - 106  of  FIG. 1  and then applied to the emergency message board as required. 
     Turning to  FIGS. 26-27 , alternate embodiments of self-illuminating, personal flotation devices are illustrated, where each of the personal flotation devices may include rip cords  2608  and  2708 , respectively, as discussed above in relation to  FIGS. 25A-25C . In response to pulling the respective rip cords, buoyancy panels (not shown) are inflated to maintain positive buoyancy of a person wearing the personal flotation device. In particular, compressed air canisters may be used as discussed above in relation to  FIG. 25A  to increase the buoyancy of the personal flotation device. 
     In addition, emergency indicators formed by self-illumination panels  2602 / 2702  and/or other panels (not shown) are caused to self-illuminate, thereby causing the production of visible light that is generated through chemiluminescent activation. Activation of the chemiluminescence of the respective emergency indicators occurs simultaneously with the inflation of the buoyancy panels in response to the pulling of rip cords  2608 / 2708 , whereby the reverse trigger mechanism as discussed above in relation to  FIGS. 25B-25C  may be utilized to activate the self-illumination. Thus, activation of self-illumination may be accomplished either by pulling rip cords  2608 / 2708  or by inflation of the buoyancy panels that occurs as a result of the pulling of rip cords  2608 / 2708 . 
     In alternate embodiments, a flexible, elongated self-illuminating packet  202 , as exemplified in  FIG. 2A , is instead utilized that includes an adhesion component to allow attachment of self-illuminating packet  202  to the various portions of the emergency devices of  FIGS. 26 and 27 . Adhesion components, such as a Velcro® mechanism, a zipper mechanism, or a channel mechanism may be applied to the back portion of self-illuminating packet  202  so as to facilitate attachment of self-illuminating packet  202  to the emergency devices. As such, a variety of self-illuminating packets  202  may be interchanged as necessary to maintain the desired intensity or desired color of the emergency devices. In particular, one or more of a variety of self-illuminating packets may be caused to self-illuminate as in steps  102 - 106  of  FIG. 1  and then applied to the various portions of the emergency devices to cause self-illumination of the emergency devices. 
     In yet other embodiments, the vest of  FIG. 27  may not include buoyancy panels, but may nevertheless exhibit emergency indicators formed by self-illumination panels  2602 / 2702  and/or other panels (not shown) that are caused to self-illuminate, thereby causing the production of visible light that is generated through chemiluminescent activation. Such vests may be worn by emergency personnel such as policeman, fireman, construction workers, etc., so as to increase their visibility during performance of their respective duties. 
     Turning to  FIG. 28A , an alternate embodiment of emergency device  2800  is illustrated that exemplifies an emergency triangle for use in, e.g., automotive applications, to warn other drivers of vehicles that are stopped along the side of the road that otherwise are difficult to detect due to nighttime or otherwise darkened conditions. Emergency triangle  2800  incorporates an internal channel  2828  that may be pre-filled with both an activator solution and a fluorescer solution that are kept separate through use of vial  2824  as illustrated in  FIG. 28B , which is representative of a cross-section of emergency triangle  2800 . Vial  2824  may be affixed to an inner portion of wall  2830  so as to facilitate rupture of the vial using tactile depression of trigger  2820  as in steps  102 - 106  of  FIG. 1 . In particular, surface  2802  of trigger  2820  forms a portion of the outer surface of the emergency triangle  2800  and is sufficiently pliable so as to allow depression of trigger  2820  to engage vial  2824 . 
     Surface  2802  of trigger  2820  forms a portion of the surface of emergency triangle  2800  and exhibits greater pliability as compared to the remaining surface area of emergency triangle  2800  so as to allow depression of trigger  2820  to engage vial  2824 . It is noted that the majority of the surface of emergency triangle  2800  is to remain substantially rigid, so as to facilitate use during emergency operations. As a result, only that portion of surface  2802  that is immediately adjacent to trigger  2820  is to remain sufficiently pliable, whereas the remaining surface area of emergency triangle  2800  remains rigid, i.e., non-pliable. Applying a sufficient amount of force upon surface  2802  causes trigger  2820  to rupture vial  2824 , which then allows the activator and fluorescer solutions to mix within internal channel  2828 . The mixed solutions then cause internal channel  2828  to emit visible light, which in turn causes emergency triangle  2800  to self-illuminate as illustrated in  FIG. 28A . 
     In one embodiment, trigger  2820  may be formed as part of the inner portion of wall  2830  through the use of, e.g., a plastic extrusion mold, whereby the trigger is formed as an integral part of emergency triangle  2800 . In addition, trigger  2820  is not necessarily formed as a pointed extrusion, but rather may be formed as a blunted extrusion instead. In addition, trigger  2820  may be formed as a hollow extrusion having a cavity, whereby the cavity (not shown) inside trigger  2820  may be utilized to capture the gaseous emissions produced during the chemiluminescent reaction. Accordingly, a greater amount of solution may be used to fill internal channel  2828 , since trigger  2820  provides an exhaust means for the gaseous emissions, which obviates the requirement that internal channel  2828  contain other exhaust means, such as an air bubble that is used as a volume to absorb the gaseous emissions. 
     Turning to  FIG. 29 , alternate embodiments of a self-illuminating sports/entertainment device in accordance with the present invention are illustrated. In particular, a plurality of detachable inserts are provided that allow interchangeability so as to achieve hybrid chemiluminescent effects. Device  2900  illustrates, for example, fishing lure  2902  having a body portion that exhibits a plurality of voids, e.g.,  2904 - 2906 , that are adapted to receive the detachable inserts. A plurality of chemiluminescent inserts, e.g.,  2908 , chemiluminescent hybrid inserts, e.g.,  2918 , and/or other inserts, e.g.,  2910 , may be interchangeably locked into voids  2904 - 2906  to provide fishing lure  2902  with a variety of hybrid chemiluminescent effects. In one embodiment, fishing lure  2902  is shaped as a spoon lure, but other body shapes may also be employed as discussed above in relation to  FIG. 21A . It is noted that the size, shape, and orientation of voids  2904 - 2906 , as well as the number of voids  2904 - 2906  utilized, may be altered as required by a particular application, so as to accept a variety of inserts that exhibit multiple shapes and sizes. 
     The outer periphery of the various inserts of  FIG. 29  may include a temporary attachment mechanism, such as an extrusion (not shown) that matches a corresponding channel (not shown) of fishing lure  2902  that lies just inside voids  2904 - 2906 . By aligning the extrusion of the inserts with voids  2904 - 2906  and pressing the inserts into their respective voids, the extrusions and corresponding channels may engage each other to create a mechanical friction that maintains the inserts within the respective voids. In order to exchange any insert with an alternate insert, the insert may be removed from its respective void by applying an opposite force from that which was used to engage the insert within the void. As such, fishing lure  2900  may take on any number of hybrid chemiluminescent effects. 
     Chemiluminescent insert  2908 , for example, may be pre-filled with both an activator solution and a fluorescer solution that are kept separate through use of a vial as discussed herein. Insert  2908  may then be activated and attached within one of voids  2904 - 2906 . In alternate embodiments, the vial contained within insert  2908  may be manufactured such that a length of the vial extends substantially throughout the full length of the inner portion of insert  2908 . Accordingly, the need for supports is obviated, since the inner portion of insert  2908  precludes shifting of the vial during tactile depression of the trigger. 
     In one embodiment, the trigger may be formed as part of the inner portion of insert  2908  through the use of, e.g., a plastic extrusion mold, whereby the trigger is formed as an integral part of insert  2908 . In addition, the trigger is not necessarily formed as a pointed extrusion, but rather may be formed as a blunted extrusion instead. In addition, the trigger may be formed as a hollow extrusion having a cavity, whereby the cavity (not shown) inside the trigger may be utilized to capture the gaseous emissions produced during the chemiluminescent reaction. Accordingly, a greater amount of solution may be used to fill insert  2908 , since the trigger provides an exhaust means for the gaseous emissions, which obviates the requirement that insert  2908  contain other exhaust means, such as an air bubble that is used as a volume to absorb the gaseous emissions. 
     A hybrid insert, such as insert  2918 , may also be utilized, whereby portion  2914  of insert  2918  exhibits chemiluminescent properties as discussed herein, but portion  2912  exhibits non-chemiluminescent properties. It is noted that hybrid insert  2918  may also be utilized within fishing lure  2014  of  FIG. 21A , or conversely, within any of the other embodiments provided herein that utilize inserts, such as discussed above in relation to wings  1818  of  FIGS. 18A-18B  and the detachable inserts of  FIGS. 22-24 . 
     In one embodiment, for example, portion  2912  may contain hardened objects that are free to move about within portion  2912  while fishing lure  2902  is being utilized to attract predator fish. In such an embodiment, separation wall  2916  is utilized to separate portions  2912  and  2914  so as to maintain the effectiveness of each respective portions. As a result, fishing lure  2902  may not only be visible to the predator fish via chemiluminescence of portion  2914 , but may also be audible to the predator fish, due to the rattling effects provided by the movement of the hardened objects within portion  2912 . In alternate embodiments, insert  2910  may be used in conjunction with insert  2908 , whereby both a chemiluminescent insert and an audible insert may be used within voids  2904 - 2906  to enhance the attractive effects of fishing lure  2902 . 
     In alternate embodiments, hybrid insert  2918  may utilize one or more separation walls  2916  to separate two or more portions of hybrid insert  2918 . In such an instance, a plurality of separated chemiluminescent effects, or a plurality of chemiluminescent effects separated from a plurality of rattling effects may be produced from the various portions of hybrid insert  2918 . 
     It is noted that the hybrid chemiluminescent effects of fishing lure  2902  may also be incorporated into the fishing lures of  FIGS. 21 and 23-24 . For example, spoon portion  2302  of  FIG. 23  and chemiluminescent spoon/spinner  2420  of  FIG. 24  may utilize the hybrid chemiluminescent effects of fishing lure  2902  by incorporating multiple inserts to enhance the attractive effects of fishing lures  2300  and  2400 . 
     Turning to  FIG. 30A , an alternate embodiment of a self-illuminating sports/entertainment device in accordance with the present invention is illustrated. In particular, self-illuminating devices  3002  and  3004  represent both halves of a device that are coupled together to form a union between devices  3002 - 3004  using, e.g., male connector  3010  and female connector  3012 , as illustrated. Irrespective of the shape of devices  3002  and  3004  as illustrated in  FIG. 30A , devices  3002  and  3004  may be representative of both halves of the exemplary devices as illustrated in  FIGS. 8, 12-13, 18-20, and 28 . That is to say, for example, that devices  3002  and  3004  may be representative of both halves of device  1826  of  FIG. 18C , which are coupled together using male and female connectors  3010  and  3012 , respectively. 
     In certain embodiments, both halves of the device may need to be coupled in such a manner that allows the inner surface, e.g.,  3022  and  3024  of  FIG. 30C , to come into contact with each other. In such an instance, female connector  3012  may be configured to be completely encompassed within device  3004 , such that once male member  3010  is fully engaged with female member  3012 , surfaces  3022  and  3024  contact one another. As a result, the outer surface of devices  3002  and  3004  forms a congruent surface that appears to form a single device, such as device  1826  of  FIG. 18C . 
     Turning to  FIG. 30B , an alternate utility of male/female connectors  3010  and  3012  is illustrated, whereby the male/female connectors provide refill ports that facilitate a refill operation of devices  3002  and/or  3004 . In particular, refill device  3016  may contain both an activator solution and a fluorescer solution that are caused to come into contact with one another to emit visible light through chemiluminescence in accordance with the various embodiments of the invention as provided herein. Refill device  3016  may then be coupled to device  3002  as illustrated, such that depression of the outer surface of refill device  3016  causes the transfer of chemiluminescent solution  3018  contained within refill device  3016  to device  3002  via one-way valve  3006 . 
     In response, expired chemiluminescent solution  3020  is caused to be expelled from device  3002  via exhaust valve  3014 . Once the transfer is complete, leakage of the chemiluminescent solution contained within device  3002  is prevented through closure of one-way valve  3006 . It can be seen, therefore, that by: 1) connecting refill device  3016  to each of devices  3002 - 3004 ; 2) replacing expired chemiluminescent solution with newly activated chemiluminescent solution; and 3) reconnecting devices  3002 - 3004 ; that a device, e.g., device  1826  of  FIG. 18C , may be refilled with newly activated chemiluminescent solution so as to replenish and/or change the self-illumination properties of the device. 
     In alternate embodiments, devices  3002  and/or  3004  may form a single device. In such an instance, either of connectors  3010  or  3012 , respectively, form a single refill port and the respective exhaust valves  3014  provide the mechanism utilized to exhaust expired chemiluminescent solution upon transfer of chemiluminescent solution  3018  contained within the respective refill device. 
     Turning to  FIGS. 30D-30E , an alternate embodiment is illustrated, whereby expulsion of expired chemiluminescent solution from devices  3002  and  3004  may instead be achieved via valves  3052  that may form a portion of connectors  3010  and  3012  as illustrated. Valves  3052  may be opened such that depression of devices  3002  and  3004  causes expired chemiluminescent solution  3054  to be expelled as illustrated in  FIG. 30E , without the necessity to attach refill device  3016  as discussed above in relation to  FIG. 30B . In such an instance, valves  3052  provide a “breather” function through ventilation, whereby outside air is allowed to occupy volume within devices  3002 - 3004  that is left vacant by the exhausted chemiluminescent solution  3054 . 
     Turning to  FIG. 31A , an alternate embodiment of jig head style fishing lure  3100  is illustrated, whereby “bullet shaped” jig head lure  3100  is segmented into first portion  3118  and second portion  3120 . Second portion  3120  may be implemented with a heavy metal, e.g., lead. First portion  3118  may instead be implemented with a translucent or transparent material, e.g., plastic, such that the solution contained within the one or more cavities of first portion  3118  may be visible. 
     It is noted that first portion  3118  may be mechanically engaged in direction  3112 , as illustrated in  FIG. 31B , to second portion  3120  to form a single, bullet-shaped jig head portion  3150 , whereby the interface between first portion  3118  and second portion  3120  is congruent and appears to form a single device when the two portions are engaged. It is further noted that second portion  3120  may instead be formed of the translucent or transparent material, e.g., plastic, such that the solution contained within the one or more cavities of second portion  3120  may be visible, while first portion  3118  may instead be formed of the heavy metal, e.g., lead. 
     First portion  3118  may be disengaged in direction  3116 , as illustrated in  FIG. 31B , from second portion  3120 , so as to facilitate interchangeability between first and second portions  3118  and  3120 , respectively. For example, first portion  3118  may represent a chemiluminescent attachment, such that when activated in accordance with the various embodiments of the present invention, first portion  3118  emanates visible light through chemiluminescence. Once the emanation of visible light from first portion  3118  has expired, first portion  3118  may be disengaged from second portion  3120  and exchanged with a replacement first portion  3118 . 
     Turning to  FIG. 31C , a first embodiment of mechanical engagement is illustrated, whereby clasps  3124  of first portion  3118  engage mating portions  3126  of second portion  3120  once first portion  3118  and second portion  3120  are engaged to form bullet-shaped jig head portion  3150 . Engagement of first portion  3118  to second portion  3120  also causes triggers  3104  to engage vials  3106 , thereby causing vials  3106  to rupture. As a result, the solution contained within vials  3106  mixes with the solution contained within cavities  3128  to emanate visible light through chemiluminescence as in steps  102 - 106  of  FIG. 1 . It is noted that a water-tight seal (not shown) may be created within first portion  3128 , so as to prevent leakage of solution from cavities  3128  and vials  3106 . 
     As illustrated, a plurality of cavities  3128  may exist within first portion  3118 , where each cavity contains a chemiluminescent solution that may be configured to emanate a different color of light when activated. As a result, a plurality of chemiluminescent effects may be generated within first portion  3118 , such that one or more colors may be emanated during the chemiluminescent phase of first portion  3118 . 
       FIG. 31B  illustrates an alternate mechanical engagement embodiment, whereby male portion  3108  of first portion  3118  engages female portion  3102  of second portion  3120  via threaded portions as illustrated. Engagement of first portion  3118  to second portion  3120  also causes trigger  3104  to engage vial  3106 , thereby causing vial  3106  to rupture. As a result, the solution contained within vial  3106  mixes with the solution contained within cavity  3128  to emanate visible light from cavity  3128  through chemiluminescence as in steps  102 - 106  of  FIG. 1 . It is noted that a water-tight seal (not shown) may be created within first portion  3128 , so as to prevent leakage of solution from cavity  3128  and vial  3106 .  FIG. 31D  illustrates yet another mechanical engagement embodiment, whereby the female portion instead exists within first portion  3118  and the male portion exists within second portion  3120 . 
     Other embodiments are also provided, whereby first portion  3118  includes both the trigger mechanism and the vial. In such an instance, mechanical engagement between first portion  3118  and second portion  3120  does not cause the trigger to engage the vial. Rather, a portion of the surface of first portion  3118  instead contains the trigger mechanism, whereby the portion of the surface of first portion  3118  that is immediately adjacent to the trigger mechanism is sufficiently pliable so as to allow depression of the trigger mechanism to engage the vial. The remaining surface of first portion  3118  is not sufficiently pliable, i.e., rigid, so as to provide sufficient rigidity during fishing operations. Applying a sufficient amount of force upon the portion of the surface of first portion  3118  causes the trigger mechanism to rupture the vial, which then allows the activator and fluorescer solutions to mix within cavity  3128 . The mixed solutions then cause cavity  3128  to emit visible light, which in turn causes first portion  3118  to self-illuminate. 
     Turning to  FIGS. 32A and 32B , an alternate embodiment of jig head style fishing lure  3200  is illustrated, whereby bullet shaped jig head lure  3200  is segmented into first portion  3208  and second portion  3206 . First portion  3208  may be implemented with a heavy metal, e.g. lead. Shaft portion  3210  of second portion  3206  may instead be implemented with a translucent or transparent material, e.g., plastic, such that the solution contained within cavity  3212  may be visible. 
     It is noted that first portion  3208  and second portion  3206  may be mechanically engaged to form a single, bullet-shaped jig head portion  3200 , whereby the interface between first portion  3208  and second portion  3206  is congruent and appears to form a single device when the two portions are engaged. First portion  3208  may be disengaged from second portion  3206 , so as to facilitate interchangeability between first and second portions  3208  and  3206 , respectively. For example, shaft portion  3210  of second portion  3206  may represent a chemiluminescent attachment, such that when activated in accordance with the various embodiments of the present invention, shaft portion  3210  of second portion  3206  emanates visible light through chemiluminescence. Once the emanation of visible light from shaft portion  3210  of second portion  3206  has expired, second portion  3206  may be disengaged from first portion  3208  and exchanged with a replacement second portion  3206 . 
       FIG. 32B  illustrates one embodiment, whereby male portion  3202  of first portion  3208  engages the female portion of shaft portion  3210  via threaded portions as illustrated. Engagement of first portion  3208  to second portion  3206  also causes male portion  3202  to act as a trigger mechanism to engage vial  3204 , thereby causing vial  3204  to rupture. As a result, the solution contained within vial  3204  mixes with the solution contained within cavity  3212  to emanate visible light from cavity  3212  through chemiluminescence. It is noted that a water-tight seal (not shown) may be created within shaft portion  3210 , so as to prevent leakage of solution from cavity  3212  and vial  3204 . 
     Other embodiments are also provided, whereby shaft portion  3210  includes both the trigger mechanism and the vial. In such an instance, mechanical engagement between first portion  3208  and second portion  3206  does not cause the trigger to engage the vial. Rather, a portion of the surface of shaft portion  3210  instead contains the trigger mechanism, whereby the portion of the surface of shaft portion  3210  that is immediately adjacent to the trigger mechanism is sufficiently pliable so as to allow depression of the trigger mechanism to engage the vial. The remaining surface of shaft portion  3210  is not sufficiently pliable, i.e., rigid, so as to provide sufficient rigidity during fishing operations. In such an embodiment, it is noted that first portion  3208  and second portion  3206  may be permanently affixed to one another. Furthermore, the cavity  3212  of shaft portion  3210  may contain an inner core (not shown in  FIG. 32B ) comprised of a solid, such as a metal, or may be completely filled with solution as illustrated in  FIG. 32B . 
     Applying a sufficient amount of force upon the portion of the surface of shaft portion  3210  causes the trigger mechanism to rupture the vial, which then allows the activator and fluorescer solutions to mix within cavity  3212 . The mixed solutions then cause cavity  3212  to emit visible light, which in turn causes shaft portion  3210  to self-illuminate. 
     Turning to  FIG. 32C , an alternate embodiment of jig head style fishing lure  3250  is illustrated, whereby bullet-shaped jig head lure  3250  is segmented into first portion  3220  and second portion  3218 , where second portion  3218  is further segmented into shaft portion  3222  and cylindrical portion  3214 . First portion  3220  and shaft portion  3222  of second portion  3218  may be implemented with a heavy metal, e.g., lead, whereas cylindrical portion  3214  may instead be implemented with a translucent or transparent material, e.g., plastic. 
     As illustrated, cylindrical portion  3214  is translucent or transparent, such that the solution contained within cavity  3226  may be visible. In addition, cylindrical portion  3214  surrounds channel  3224  which is hollow, so as to allow insertion of shaft portion  3222  into channel  3224 . As illustrated, shaft portion  3222  engages female portion  3230  of first portion  3220  to complete the assembly of first portion  3220  and second portion  3218 , whereby once assembled, cylindrical portion  3214  surrounds shaft portion  3222 . It is noted, that channel  3224  of cylindrical portion  3214  may be lined with a layer of protective coating, such as steel, aluminum, or ceramic, so as to protect cylindrical portion  3214  from inadvertent damage that may be caused by the friction between shaft portion  3222  and cylindrical portion  3214  within channel  3224 . 
     Engagement of flanges  3216  against cylindrical portion  3214  engages a trigger mechanism (not shown) within cylindrical portion  3214 , thereby causing vial  3228  to rupture. As a result, the solution contained within vial  3228  mixes with the solution contained within cavity  3226  to emanate visible light from cavity  3226  through chemiluminescence. 
     In an alternate embodiment, mechanical engagement between flanges  3216  and cylindrical portion  3214  does not cause the trigger to engage the vial. A portion of the surface of cylindrical portion  3214  contains the trigger mechanism, whereby the portion of the surface of cylindrical portion  3214  that is immediately adjacent to the trigger mechanism is sufficiently pliable so as to allow depression of the trigger mechanism to engage the vial. The remaining surface of cylindrical portion  3214  is not sufficiently pliable, i.e., rigid, so as to provide sufficient rigidity during fishing operations. Applying a sufficient amount of force upon the portion of the surface of cylindrical portion  3214  causes the trigger mechanism to rupture the vial, which then allows the activator and fluorescer solutions to mix within cavity  3226 . The mixed solutions then cause cavity  3226  to emit visible light, which in turn causes cylindrical portion  3214  to self-illuminate. In such an instance, it is noted that shaft portion  3222  may be inserted into cylindrical portion  3214  and first portion  3220 , such that shaft portion  3222  permanently attaches to first portion  3220 . In addition, cylindrical portion  3214  may also be manufactured with flanges  3216 , in the event that shaft portion  3222  is absent flanges  3216 . 
     In alternate embodiments, the surface of cylindrical portion  3214  may be sufficiently pliable so as to obviate the need for a trigger mechanism. In such an instance, the surface of cylindrical portion  3214  may be manipulated in order to rupture vial  3228  to cause cylindrical portion  3214  to emit visible light. 
     In alternate embodiments, such as illustrated in  FIG. 32D , at least a portion of cylinder  3256  may be fitted within a cavity (not shown) of first portion  3258 . In such an embodiment, cylinder  3256  may conform to the dimensions of the cavity (not shown) of first portion  3258  as cylinder  3256  is fitted within first portion  3258 . As illustrated, first portion  3258  is sufficiently translucent, or transparent, so as to allow the emanation of visible light from first portion  3258  once cylinder  3256  is activated. It is noted that shaft portion/fishing line  3252  extends within the hollow portion of cylinder  3256  and is detachably connected to hook portion  3254  to complete the fishing lure assembly. Accordingly, once the emanation of visible light from cylinder  3256  has expired, shaft portion/fishing line  3252  may be disengaged from hook portion  3254  to facilitate replacement of cylinder  3256 . It is noted that the hollow portion of cylinder  3256  may be lined with a layer of protective coating, such as steel, aluminum, or ceramic, so as to protect cylinder  3256  from inadvertent damage that may be caused by the friction between shaft portion/fishing line  3252  and cylinder  3256 . 
     In an alternate embodiment, as illustrated in  FIG. 32E , cylindrical portion  3214  contains hinge  3232 , which allows cylindrical portion  3214  to be opened and then clasped around shaft portion  3222  to be held in place. As illustrated, cylindrical portion  3214  folds around shaft portion  3222  to allow engagement of clasp  3234  with receiver  3236 , whereby once assembled, cylindrical portion  3214  surrounds shaft portion  3222  and is locked into place via clasp  3234  and receiver  3236 . As discussed above in relation to  FIG. 8C , upon closure of cylindrical portion  3214  around shaft portion  3222 , compression forces causing clasp  3234  to engage  3236  may also engage trigger mechanisms (not shown in  FIG. 32E ), thereby causing vials  3228  to rupture. The solutions contained within cavity  3226  are then allowed to mix with solution contained within vials  3228 , which then causes the emission of visible light by the process of chemiluminescence from cavity  3226 . 
     It is understood that cylindrical portion  3214  may not be configured to surround shaft portion  3222  and, therefore, hollow channel  3224  may be replaced with a solid channel, or conversely, may be filled with chemiluminescent solution. In such an instance, cylindrical portion  3214  may be configured with an attachment means (not shown) that allows the exterior portion of cylindrical portion  3214  to be detachably engaged to the exterior portion of shaft portion  3222 . Cylindrical portion  3214  may simply “snap on” to shaft portion  3222  to provide a mechanical engagement between the outer portion of cylindrical portion  3214  and the outer portion of shaft portion  3222  while cylindrical portion  3214  is emanating visible light. A new cylindrical portion  3214  may then be snapped onto shaft portion  3222  to replace the chemiluminescent effects previously produced by the expired cylindrical portion  3214 . It is noted that the shape of cylindrical portion  3214  may be changed from that of a cylinder to virtually any other shape that lends itself to detachable engagement to shaft portion  3222 . 
     Turning to  FIG. 33A , an alternate embodiment of  FIG. 13C  is illustrated, whereby jig head style fishing lure  3300  contains eye portion  3302  that may be caused to emanate visible light by chemiluminescence. Spherical portion  3304  may be implemented as a solid object with a heavy metal, e.g., lead, having hollow portion  3316 . Hollow portion  3316  extends throughout the interior of spherical portion  3304  to form diametrically opposed openings to allow the insertion of eye portion  3302  through either opening. Eye portion  3302  may be implemented with a translucent or transparent material, e.g., plastic, such that the solution contained within the one or more cavities of eye portion  3302  may be visible. 
     In alternate embodiments, hollow portion  3316  may not extend throughout the interior of spherical portion  3304  to form two, diametrically opposed openings. Rather, partial hollow portion(s)  3316  may be formed within spherical portion  3304  resulting in singular opening(s) in the surface of spherical portion  3304  that allow the insertion of one or more chemiluminescent inserts along the surface of spherical portion  3304 . 
     It is noted that eye portion  3302  and spherical portion  3304  may be mechanically engaged to form a single jig head portion  3300 , whereby eye portion  3302  and spherical portion  3304  appears to form a single device when the two portions are engaged. In addition, once engaged with spherical portion  3304 , eye portion  3302  may form a congruent surface as compared to the surface of spherical portion  3304 . Alternately, eye portion  3302  may instead protrude outwardly from the surface of spherical portion  3304 , or be retracted inwardly from the surface of spherical portion  3304 , so as to produce the effect that eye balls are either protruding from spherical portion  3304  or recessed within spherical portion  3304 . 
     In one embodiment, as illustrated in  FIG. 33B , eye portion  3302  may contain flange  3312  that engages channel  3314  of spherical portion  3304  when the two portions are engaged. In alternate embodiments, clip mechanisms (not shown), such as circlips, may instead be utilized to secure eye portion  3302  within spherical portion  3304 . In other embodiments, mechanical friction, o-rings, or other mechanical means may instead be utilized to maintain the engagement between eye portion  3302  and spherical portion  3304 . 
     Eye portion  3302  may be disengaged from spherical portion  3304 , so as to facilitate interchangeability between portions  3302  and  3304 , respectively. For example, eye portion  3302  represents a chemiluminescent attachment, such that when activated in accordance with the various embodiments of the present invention, eye portion  3302  emanates visible light through chemiluminescence. Chemiluminescent activation of eye portion  3302  may include an operation whereby eye portion  3302  is compressed along the longitudinal axis of eye portion  3302  in order to rupture the vial(s) (not shown) contained within eye portion  3302 . 
     Once the emanation of visible light from eye portion  3302  has expired, eye portion  3302  may be disengaged from spherical portion  3304  and exchanged with a replacement eye portion  3302 . It is noted that spherical portion  3304  may be reinforced with a protective coating, such as steel, aluminum, or ceramic, so that multiple engagement/disengagement operations between portions  3302  and  3304  does not excessively wear spherical portion  3304 . 
     It is further noted that the shape of spherical portion  3304  may be altered to any other shape, e.g., a bullet shape, in order to accommodate the particular fishing operation being implemented. For example, spherical-shaped lures may be utilized to attract smaller predator fish in fresh water applications, whereas bullet-shaped lures may instead be utilized to attract larger predator fish in salt water applications. 
     In an alternate embodiment, as illustrated in  FIG. 33C , eye portion  3302  and spherical portion  3304  are combined to form a single portion  3310 . In one embodiment, single portion  3310  is similar to that of  FIG. 13C , such that the entire sphere contains a first solution and a vial that when ruptured, causes a second solution contained within the vial to mix with the first solution to emanate visible light by chemiluminescence. In an alternate embodiment, each of eye portion  3302  and spherical portion  3304  forms single portion  3310  that may individually contain respective chemiluminescent solutions and vials that when activated, are caused to emanate visible light by chemiluminescence. Accordingly, eye portion  3302  and spherical portion  3304  may be configured to emanate light of different color, intensity, etc. 
     Band portion  3306  is configured to accept single portion  3310 , whereby single portion  3310  and/or portion  3306  is sufficiently pliable to contract/expand while single portion  3310  is inserted into band portion  3306 . As a result, once single portion  3310  is inserted into band portion  3306 , single portion  3310  and/or band portion  3306  returns to its original shape to form a mechanical engagement between single portion  3310  and band portion  3306 . 
     In an alternate embodiment, band portion  3306  contains interface  3308  and associated clasping mechanisms (not shown, but similar to clasp  3234  and receiver  3236  of  FIG. 32D ), whereby band portion  3306  may be separated at interface  3308  to allow insertion of single portion  3310 . Once inserted, band portion  3306  may be rejoined at interface  3308  to allow engagement of the clasping mechanisms (not shown) to hold single portion  3310  into place. 
     Turning to  FIG. 34A , an alternate embodiment is illustrated, whereby manipulation of vial  3404  via steps  102 - 106  of  FIG. 1  may be accomplished through use of an actuator that is integrated within fishing lure  3400 . As illustrated in  FIG. 34A , actuator  3402 , wedge portion  3406 , and associated vial  3404  are configured along an axis that is orthogonal to longitudinal axis  3440  of fishing lure  3400 . In alternate embodiments, actuator  3402 , wedge portion  3406 , and vial  3404  may extend parallel to longitudinal axis  3440  or may be configured at any other geometric relationship with respect to longitudinal axis  3440 . 
     Turning to  FIG. 34B , a cross-section view illustrates vial  3404  as providing a hollow channel through which actuator  3402  is inserted. Wedge portion  3406  is attached to the opposite end of actuator  3402  via threaded portion  3410 . Rotation of actuator  3402  causes threaded portion  3410  to be drawn into shaft portion  3408  of actuator  3402 . In response, wedge portion  3406  is caused to be drawn towards vial  3404 , thereby causing vial  3404  to rupture. Once ruptured, solution  3412  contained within vial  3404  mixes with solution  3442  to cause fishing lure  3400  to emanate visible light through the process of chemiluminescence. 
     In an alternate embodiment as illustrated in  FIG. 34C , plate  3414  replaces wedge portion  3406 . Similarly as discussed above, rotation of actuator  3402  draws plate  3414  closer to vial  3404 , which causes vial  3404  to rupture. Once ruptured, solution  3412  contained within vial  3404  mixes with solution  3442  to cause fishing lure  3400  to emanate visible light through the process of chemiluminescence. 
     Turning to  FIG. 34D , yet another embodiment is illustrated, whereby an alternate mechanism integrated within fishing lure  3450  may be actuated to cause the emanation of visible light from fishing lure  3450 . Vial  3418  accepts plunger  3420 , which is attached to actuator  3424 , thereby preventing solution contained within vial  3418  from escape. Pulling actuator  3424  away from fishing lure  3450  in direction  3430  causes plunger  3420  to be removed from vial  3418 , which then causes solution  3428  to mix with solution  3442  to cause fishing lure  3450  to emanate visible light through the process of chemiluminescence. 
     In an alternate embodiment as illustrated in  FIG. 34E , push-pin  3432  acts as the actuation mechanism for fishing lure  3475 . By pressing push-pin in direction  3436 , vial  3434  ruptures, causing solution  3438  contained within vial  3434  to mix with solution  3442  to cause fishing lure  3475  to emanate visible light through the process of chemiluminescence. 
     It is noted that the self-illuminating objects illustrated in  FIGS. 34A-34E  provide an actuation mechanism that allows a rupturing function to be performed on a vial contained within an object, such as a fishing lure, without the need to manipulate any other portion of the object. For example, fishing lure  3400  of  FIG. 34A  provides a bullet-shaped portion that includes actuator  3402 , which enables a rupturing function to be performed on vial  3404  without manipulating any other part of the bullet-shaped portion. Accordingly, the bullet-shaped portion may be manufactured to be completely non-pliable to increase the durability of the bullet-shaped portion, while nevertheless maintaining the ability to rupture vial  3404  via actuator  3402 . It is further noted that the actuation mechanisms provided herein and their equivalents may be incorporated within any other self-illuminating objects provided herein or their equivalents. 
     Turning to  FIG. 35A , an alternate embodiment is illustrated, whereby manipulation via steps  102 - 106  of  FIG. 1  may be accomplished by manipulating an outer portion of objects  3500  and  3550  to rupture a vial (not shown) to cause self-illumination of objects  3500  and  3550 . Object  3500  may be shaped in any manner, such as a smooth sided shape (e.g., a cylindrical shape) or a shape having intersecting sides (e.g., a rectangular or polygonal shape). 
     Object  3500  may include a tapered shape (e.g., cone shape  3502 ) having a substantially pointed end. Accordingly, object  3500  may be inserted into another object, such that the substantially pointed end of cone shape  3502  facilitates insertion of object  3500  into the other object. For example, a relatively soft object (e.g., a plastic or rubber object such as a rubber worm) may include a relatively soft outer portion around the entire object. Object  3500  may be pressed against the soft object, such that a pointed end of cone shape  3502  may press against the soft object. By applying pressure on back end  3504  of object  3500 , object  3500  may penetrate the soft outer portion of the relatively soft object. The pointed end of cone shape  3502  may facilitate such a penetration by improving the ease at which object  3500  pierces the relatively soft outer portion of the plastic or rubber object and the ease at which object  3500  may be fully inserted into the plastic or rubber object. In so doing, self-illuminating object  3500  may be attached (e.g., inserted) into virtually any other object that allows penetration and insertion of another object. For example, virtually any plastic or rubber fishing lure may accept object  3500  by simply inserting object  3500  into the plastic or rubber fishing lure. Once activated, object  3500  may cause the plastic or rubber fishing lure to self-illuminate in accordance with the manner in which object  3500  is inserted into the plastic or rubber fishing lure. 
     Object  3550  illustrates an alternate embodiment of a self-penetrating, self-illuminating object, where each end of object  3550  may include tapered ends (e.g., cone shaped portions  3552  and  3554 ) where each tapered end may be tapered to a point. In so doing, object  3550  may be used to penetrate not one, but two other objects. Accordingly, two other objects (e.g., a plastic or rubber ball) may be joined together using object  3550 . Once activated, the two joined objects may appear to be connected via a self-illuminated post (e.g., self-illuminating object  3550 ). 
     It should be noted that ends  3502  and  3552 - 3554  may not necessarily be cone shaped, but may employ any other tapered shape that may facilitate piercing. For example, ends  3502  and/or  3552 - 3554  may be tapered to a sharp edge that may facilitate piercing of another object by the sharp edge. 
     Other aspects and embodiments of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the invention disclosed herein. For example, while heavy metal compositions, such as lead are provided herein, other heavy metal compositions may be utilized, such as copper, brass, steel, etc. In addition, while transparent or translucent materials, such as plastic are provided herein, other transparent or translucent materials may also be utilized, such as glass. Furthermore, multi-colored or multi-faceted wraps may be applied to the exteriors of the self-illuminating objects provided herein, so as to alter, modify, or otherwise enhance the illumination effects produced by the self-illuminating objects. Other materials, such as glitter, may also be added to the solution(s) contained within the self-illuminating objects to further enhance the illumination effects produced by the self-illuminating objects. It is intended, therefore, that the specification and illustrated embodiments be considered as examples only, with a true scope and spirit of the invention being indicated by the following claims.