Patent Publication Number: US-2023145400-A1

Title: Vibration therapy system and device

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/568,330, filed Jan. 4, 2022, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/361,966, filed Jun. 29, 2021, now U.S. Pat. No. 11,331,244, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/133,530, filed Jan. 4, 2021, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/065,348, filed Aug. 13, 2020, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/045,365, filed Jun. 29, 2020, the entireties of which are incorporated by reference herein. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates generally to a vibration therapy system and device, and more particularly to a cooling attachment module that can be used with the vibration therapy device. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     As people age, devices for skin and facial care are needed. Percussive massage devices that provide reciprocating motion and provide relief to sore muscles and other parts of the body are known. For example, see U.S. Pat. Nos. 10,857,064 and 10,945,915, the entireties of which are incorporated by reference herein. However, many percussive massage devices may be uncomfortable if used on the face and principally target the underlying muscles. The present invention addresses the needs discussed herein. 
     The background description disclosed anywhere in this patent application includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art. 
     SUMMARY OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     In accordance with a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a cooling attachment module for use with a vibration therapy device that includes a housing and/or heat sink member that includes inner and outer walls and defines a central opening axially therethrough. A cooling recess is defined in an upper surface and a connection recess is defined in a lower surface of the heat sink member. A cover member is secured over the cooling recess. A controllable temperature element is positioned on an upper surface of the heat sink member. A spreader member is positioned on an upper surface of the controllable temperature element. An upper surface of the spreader member is positioned above an upper surface of the cover member to contact a user&#39;s body part. The controllable temperature element is configured to transfer thermal energy to a lower surface of the spreader member. A base portion that includes an electrical connector is secured under the electrical recess. In a preferred embodiment, the cover member includes at least a first cooling protrusion opening defined therein, the spreader member includes at least a first cooling protrusion extending upwardly therefrom, and the cooling protrusion extends through the cooling protrusion opening and above the upper surface of the cover member. 
     In a preferred embodiment, the base portion includes a plurality of magnets therearound. Preferably, an electrical control member is associated with the base portion. The electrical connector comprises a plurality of male electrical contacts extending downwardly from the electrical control member and into a securement recess defined in a lower surface of the base portion. Preferably, the heat sink member includes at least a first electrical communication tunnel defined therethrough and power is routed from the electrical connector through the first electrical communication tunnel and to the controllable temperature element. In a preferred embodiment, the heat sink member is made of metal and the cover member and base portion are made of a non-metal (e.g., plastic). Preferably, the heat sink member is much thicker than the controllable temperature element, which allows the heat sink member to act as a heat sink and dissipate heat. The heat sink member (or at least the inner and outer walls thereof) may be between 2 to 10 times thicker (in an axial direction) than the controllable temperature element. 
     In accordance with another aspect of the present invention there is provided a cooling attachment module for use with a facial treatment device that includes a heat sink member having inner and outer walls and defines a central opening axially therethrough. A cooling recess is defined in an upper surface and a connection recess is defined in a lower surface. The heat sink member includes one or more electrical communication tunnels defined therethrough and the heat sink member is made of metal. A cover member is secured over the cooling recess. The cover member includes first and second arcuate shaped cooling protrusion openings defined therein and the cover member is made of non-metal. First and second controllable temperature elements are positioned on an upper surface of the heat sink member. A spreader member is positioned on an upper surface of the first and second controllable temperature elements. The spreader member includes first and second arcuate shaped cooling protrusions extending upwardly therefrom that extend through the cooling protrusion opening and above the upper surface of the cover member to contact a user&#39;s body part. The first and second controllable temperature elements are configured to transfer thermal energy to a lower surface of the spreader member. A base portion is secured under the electrical recess. The base portion includes a plurality of magnets therearound and is made of non-metal, and an electrical control member is positioned in the electrical recess. The electrical connector comprises a plurality of male electrical contacts extending downwardly from the electrical control member and into a securement recess defined in a lower surface of the base portion. Power is routed from the male electrical contacts through the electrical communication tunnel(s) and to the first and second controllable temperature elements. Preferably, first and second isolation washers are positioned in a component tunnel defined between the upper surface and the lower surface of the heat sink member. 
     In accordance with another aspect of the present invention there is provided a vibration therapy device that includes the cooling attachment module removably secured to the module seat. The cooling attachment module at least partially surrounds the distal end of the push rod assembly. 
     In accordance with another aspect of the present invention there is provided a vibration therapy device that includes a housing that includes a handle portion, a head portion and a module seat defined on the head portion, an electrical source, a motor positioned in the housing, a switch for activating the motor, a push rod assembly operatively connected to the motor and configured to reciprocate in response to activation of the motor, and a therapy module removably secured to the module seat. The distal end of the push rod assembly is configured to removably receive a reciprocating attachment thereon. The therapy module at least partially surrounds the distal end of the push rod assembly. In a preferred embodiment, the push rod assembly includes an attachment member that defines the distal end of the push rod assembly. The therapy module is coaxial with the distal end of the push rod assembly (e.g., the attachment member and/or the magnet seat), and at least a portion of the attachment member (e.g., the magnet member) extends into the therapy module. 
     In a preferred embodiment, the therapy module is in electrical communication with the electrical source (so that it can be powered) and/or is in data communication with the controller/processor of the device (so that it can be operated as desired). For electrical connection, the module seat preferably includes a first electrical connector (male or female), and wherein the therapy module includes a second electrical connector (female or male) in electrical communication with the first electrical connector. The therapy module may comprise a ring module that includes a central opening and an outer surface. When a reciprocating attachment that includes a contact surface is removably received on the distal end of the push rod assembly, the contact surface of the reciprocating attachment extends further from the module seat than the outer surface of the ring module. 
     The therapy module may be a ring module that includes a plurality of LED&#39;s therein or thereon. The LEDs are configured to operate at a treatment level only when the outer surface is less than a predetermined distance from an operating surface. In a preferred embodiment, the ring module further includes at least first and second proximity sensors that are positioned approximately 180° from one another within the ring module (e.g,. on the PCB). The first and second proximity sensors are each configured to activate the LEDs at the treatment level when the outer surface of the ring module is less than the predetermined distance from the operating surface. 
     The therapy module may comprise a cap module that includes a main body portion and a rear recess and where at least a portion of the attachment member extends into the rear recess. The cap module may include an anode and a cathode and may be configured to provide micro-current therapy. The cap module may also be configured to be removably secured to the module seat and the attachment member. In this embodiment, the cap module may be removably secured to the module seat via magnets and/or one or more securement protrusions and recesses (that also help properly align the cap module). 
     In accordance with another aspect of the invention there is provided a vibration therapy system that includes a vibration therapy device, a ring module that includes a central opening and that is configured to be removably secured to the module seat, a cap module that includes a main body portion and a rear recess and that is configured to be removably secured to the module seat, and a reciprocating attachment that is configured to be removably received on the attachment member. When the ring module is removably secured to the module seat, the distal end of the push rod assembly extends into the central opening. When the cap module is removably secured to the module seat, the distal end of the push rod assembly extends into the rear recess. When the ring module is received on the module seat, the reciprocating attachment extends through the central opening. When the ring module is received on the module seat the attachment member can be reciprocated, and when the cap module is received on the module seat the attachment member cannot be reciprocated. 
     In accordance with another aspect of the invention there is provided a vibration therapy device that includes a housing that includes a handle portion and a head portion an electrical source, a motor positioned in the housing, a switch for activating the motor, a push rod assembly operatively connected to the motor and configured to reciprocate in response to activation of the motor, and a reciprocating attachment removably secured to a distal end of the push rod assembly. The reciprocating attachment includes a contact surface, and a skin treatment member is removably secured to the reciprocating attachment such that a delivery portion at least partially covers the contact surface. In a preferred embodiment, the reciprocating attachment includes a groove defined therein and at least a portion of the skin treatment member is received in the groove. Preferably, the skin treatment member includes a main body portion that, together with the delivery portion, defines an attachment recess. At least one ridge member extends inwardly from the main body portion into the attachment recess and is received in the groove on the reciprocating attachment. In a preferred embodiment, the delivery portion includes a lotion or other formulation thereon. 
     Described herein is a vibration therapy device that includes interchangeable attachments that provide therapy to a user. The interchangeable attachments can include, for example, LED light therapy, micro-current, etc. Generally, the present invention is a vibration therapy device that includes LED lights thereon that can be used for skin therapy. LED skin therapy is known. For example, see U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,524,329 and 6,974,224, the entireties of which are incorporated by reference herein. 
     The present invention is a hand-held vibration facial massager or vibration therapy device that includes different therapy attachments compatible therewith. The hand-held device, which is intended to be used on the face, but can also be used anywhere else on the body, combines vibration therapy with other facial treatment technologies, including, but not limited to, LED light therapy, micro-current treatments and radio frequency skin technology. 
     As discussed below, the vibration therapy treatment can be delivered by a brushless motor-drive train system with the distal end of the reciprocating output shaft including an amplitude of preferably between 2.0 mm and 8.0 mm. It will be appreciated that this small amplitude of reciprocation is referred to herein as a vibrating movement or vibration, hence the phrase “vibration therapy device.” However, the amplitude can be anywhere between 1.0 mm and 25 mm. The removable or interchangeable vibration therapy attachment on the end of the output shaft can be any type of attachment (see, e.g., the patents discussed above). In a preferred embodiment, the attachment is a foam/rubber attachment that is connected to the end of the shaft to deliver the vibration to the user&#39;s face. See, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 10,758,452, the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein. 
     The present invention includes an attachment system to accommodate swappable or interchangeable rings or modules with different facial treatment technologies. For example, the module can be a blue, red, amber and/or infrared LED light therapy light ring module or can be a module that includes micro-current therapy, RF (radio frequency) therapy, heat, cold, electric stimulation and/or vibration (e.g., the therapy module can include one or more motors or the like that provide vibration, separate from the reciprocation of the reciprocating attachment). As discussed below, in a preferred embodiment, the device includes an electrical connection system to deliver electric power to the ring or module and a magnet-based system to secure the ring or module in place. 
     In one preferred embodiment, the magnets are programmed or polymagnets. Polymagnets are magnetic structures that incorporate correlated patterns of magnets with alternating polarity, designed to achieve a desired behavior and deliver stronger local force. By varying the magnetic fields and strengths, different mechanical behaviors can be controlled. Correlated magnet pairs can be programmed to attract or repel with a prescribed force and engagement distance, or, to attract or repel at a certain spatial orientation. Correlated magnets can be programmed to interact only with other magnetic structures that have been coded to respond. As a result, a strong force can be used to hold the module on the device, but a fairly weak force can be used for removing the module. For example, the user can rotate the module about the module&#39;s central axis to a predetermined point where the module can be easily removed. The polymagnets in the device can even repel the polymagnets in the module at a certain rotation point, thus making removal of the module very easy. The polymagnets change properties based on the distance and position of the magnets in the ring module and the device with respect to one another. This allows the locking and unlocking forces that the user needs to apply to connect and disconnect the module from the device to be reduced compared to the use of regular magnets. For example: the magnets can repel each other when the distance between them is more than one inch but if they are brought closer than one inch they attract each other. Therefore, for example, at a first distance and a first degree of rotation, the force required to secure the module or push the module into place on the module seat (referred to herein as “attach the module”) is X and at the first distance and a second degree of rotation, the force required to attach the module is Y, where Y is less than X. To detach the module or pull it off the device, the force required may be A at a first set of degrees of rotation and B at a second set of degrees of rotation, where A is less than B. For example, the first set of degrees of rotation may be 0° to 15° and the second set of degrees of rotation may be 16° to 360°. Therefore, when the module or attachment is rotated to an angle between 0° to 15° it is easy to remove. At any other angle it is difficult for the user to remove. 
     In a preferred embodiment, the device and/or system also includes a software application downloadable to a portable electronic device that includes the ability to control the treatment and build different protocols via Bluetooth and the like. 
     In a preferred embodiment, the device and/or the therapy module includes a proximity sensor that detects the distance between the device and the user&#39;s face so that the therapy or treatment can be modified accordingly. For example, the light ring module can include one or more proximity sensors so that the LED lights can be dimmed and/or turned off when the device is pulled away from the user&#39;s skin and is not within a predetermined distance (i.e., when the ring is far enough from the user&#39;s face that no treatment is being provided). This may be done to save battery, for eye safety purposes or for other skin safety issues or concerns. 
     In a preferred embodiment, the handle forms an angle of about 120 degrees with the attachment arm or output shaft to avoid blocking the user&#39;s view during treatment. In a preferred embodiment, the housing includes a female charging jack for receiving a male connector and charging the battery. The device also includes one or more buttons or switches for controlling the device (e.g., on/off, speed control, change color of LEDs, etc.) and LEDs that provide indication of different functions, such as battery power or speed setting, etc. 
     In a preferred embodiment, the vibration therapy device includes a motor, battery, housing, and push rod assembly with a reciprocating shaft. The reciprocating shaft includes a male or female attachment member on the end thereof to which a massage or vibration attachment (that includes a corresponding female or male attachment member thereon) can be attached. In a preferred embodiment, the massage attachment is secured to the vibration therapy device using magnets. When the device is used with a ring module or attachment vibration attachment extends through the center of the ring. Any type of attaching or securing arrangement between the massage attachment and the vibration therapy device is within the scope of the invention. In a preferred embodiment, the amplitude is between about 2 mm and about 8 mm, which is smaller than many percussive massage devices. However, in another embodiment, the amplitude can be greater and between 1 mm and 26 mm or more. 
     In a preferred embodiment, the motor converts power from the power source into motion. In some embodiments, the motor is an electric motor. The electric motor may be any type of electric motor known in the art, including, but not limited to, a brushed motor, a brushless motor, a direct current (DC) motor, an alternating current (AC) motor, a mechanical-commutator motor, an electronic commutator motor, or an externally commutated motor. In a preferred embodiment, the motor is a brushless direct-current (BLDC) motor. Preferably, the percussive massage device includes a voltage-sensing resistor electrically coupled to the BLDC motor and a controller. 
     In a preferred embodiment, the vibration therapy device includes a removable light ring therapy module that surrounds the massage or reciprocating attachment. In a preferred embodiment, the light ring module includes a plurality of lights (e.g., LED&#39;s). Preferably, the light ring module is electrically connected to the vibration therapy device when it is attached thereto so that the battery powers the lights. The light ring module includes a central opening that at least partially surrounds the reciprocating attachment. 
     In a preferred embodiment, a plurality of different ring modules are included either separately or sold as a kit with the vibration therapy device. For example, separate ring modules can include lights with different wavelengths (e.g., red LEDs on one ring and blue LEDs on another). In another embodiment, lights with different wavelengths can be included on the same ring (e.g., blue and red LEDs on the same ring). The rings are interchangeable. The rings can be different sizes. Each of the ring modules can provide different functions or features. Some of the features can be used in conjunction with the vibration therapy massage attachment and others can be used with a massage attachment attached to the device. For example, the ring modules can include (either individually or in combination) heat, vibrations, electrodes for electrolysis and/or emitting electromagnetic pulses. As a result, the main device acts as a power source for powering all of the different ring modules and the therapy modules that cover the attachment member where the reciprocating attachment is seated. Therefore, the connected ring module can be used in conjunction with the reciprocating attachment or without the reciprocating attachment (e.g., with the attachment removed), so the outer surface of the ring module can be placed against the user&#39;s skin, if necessary for the type of treatment being administered. 
     In another embodiment, the LEDs and/or one or more of any of the other treatments or discussed herein (e.g., micro-current, temperature, cleansing, etc.) can be part of the vibration therapy device and not removable. In a preferred embodiment, the control center or user interface includes an up button, a down button and a select button, which can be used for scrolling or toggling through various modes, going up or down in intensity or mode and selecting the modes or modules or turning different functions (vibration, light, micro-current, etc.) on or off. 
     It will be appreciated that the vibration therapy device together with the therapy module and reciprocating attachment may be referred to herein as a vibration therapy system. 
     In a preferred embodiment, the light ring module (or other ring module) includes alignment or securement recesses defined in a rear side thereof that receive the securement protrusions. Magnet members are positioned in the ring and adjacent the securement recesses. It will be appreciated that the magnet members associated with the securement recesses are magnetically attracted to the securement protrusions. 
     In a preferred embodiment, the motor is preferably attached to a motor mount bracket that secures the motor to the housing. Preferably, the motor mount bracket includes a middle member having first and second opposite sides. The motor is positioned on the first side and the eccentric weight is positioned on the second side of the middle member. The push rod assembly comprises an L-shaped or curved connector or push rod (connected to the eccentric weight) and the reciprocating shaft (with pivotal connections therebetween). The middle member includes a shaft opening defined therein. The motor includes a rotatable motor shaft extending therefrom that extends from the first side of the middle member, through the shaft opening and to the second side of the middle member. In a preferred embodiment, the motor mount bracket includes a battery bracket portion extending therefrom that secures the battery in place. 
     Generally, when the therapy module is attached, the head portion of the vibration therapy device includes two concentric attachment rings, the inner one for the reciprocation or massage attachment (e.g., silicone vibration head) and the outer one for the therapy modules (e.g., LED, Micro-current etc.). In a preferred embodiment, the male attachment also includes magnets for attachment (or similar attachment mechanism) and can also include an electrical connection similar to the outer ring. Therefore, a single attachment that covers both the outer and inner part can be used that attaches to male attachment and securement protrusions, for example to accommodate more LEDs. 
     In another preferred embodiment, the reciprocating attachment can includes hooks for securing a microfiber material on the reciprocating attachment that can be used on the user&#39;s face or other body part for the vibration therapy treatment. The microfiber material is secured on both sides and under the reciprocating attachment and stretches across the top contact surface of the reciprocating attachment. The microfiber material can include lotion therein for treating the persons&#39; skin. 
     It will be appreciated that different types of massage or reciprocating attachments can be used on the vibration therapy device. As discussed herein, one or more of the reciprocating attachments can include a groove extending therearound for attachment of a treatment member (for treating the user&#39;s skin). Another massage attachment can include a cone portion or be cone shaped. Another massage attachment can include a soft portion and a harder portion that are connected by velcro. Another massage attachment can include a plurality of spikes or needles that provide a microneedling type treatment. 
     In a preferred embodiment, the present invention includes a ring module for use with the vibration therapy device that includes temperature control or the ability to apply heat or cold to the user&#39;s skin. In a preferred embodiment, the temperature controllable ring module includes a fan, a heat sink, a controllable temperature element (e.g., peltier module or device), and a temperature conductive plate that are contained within (or are at least partially contained within) a module housing with a center opening in which the massage attachment reciprocates. Temperature control modules are discussed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/554,305, filed Dec. 17, 2021 and U.S. Pat. No. 10,406,024, the entireties of which are incorporated herein by reference. 
     The fan and heat sink are used to dissipate heat from the controllable temperature element. In a preferred embodiment, the heat sink is shaped such that it is in direct contact with the housing of the ring module. The fins of the heat sink can be shaped so they extend away from the controllable temperature element and to (in contact with) the wall of the ring module housing. Therefore, the ring module uses the external housing to dissipate heat. Heat is removed from the hot side of the controllable temperature element and essentially the entire housing is a heat sink. In an embodiment, at least some of the outside surfaces of the housing can be include undulating surfaces, protrusions, fins or the like so as to increase the surface area and provide greater heat dissipation. 
     In another embodiment, the temperature control module does not include a center opening and covers the reciprocating attachment portion with no massage attachment thereon, similar to the microcurrent module discussed herein. The embodiment of this temperature control also includes a fan, a heat sink, controllable temperature element, and a temperature conductive plate (for contact with the user&#39;s skin) that are contained (or at least partially contained within the module housing. The temperature control module (with our without a central opening) may also include an onboard PCB/controller such that the temperature can be controlled. 
     It will be appreciated that all components and feature on the different embodiments shown herein are interchangeable with the components and features of any of the other embodiments discloses herein. 
     The invention, together with additional features and advantages thereof, may be best understood by reference to the following description. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The invention may be more readily understood by referring to the accompanying drawings in which: 
         FIG.  1    is a perspective view of a vibration therapy system and device in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG.  2    is a perspective view of the vibration therapy device with the therapy module and reciprocating attachment exploded therefrom; 
         FIG.  3    is an exploded view of the vibration therapy device; 
         FIG.  4    is a cross-sectional view of the vibration therapy device; 
         FIG.  5    is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the vibration therapy device taken along  5 - 5  of  FIG.  4   ; 
         FIG.  6    is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the vibration therapy device showing the securement protrusions and securement recesses with the electrical connection and magnetic connection; 
         FIG.  7    is a rear perspective view of the light ring module; 
         FIG.  8    is an exploded perspective view of the light ring module; 
         FIG.  9    is a perspective view of the vibration therapy device with the micro-current cap module thereon; 
         FIG.  10    is a perspective view of the vibration therapy device with the micro-current cap module exploded therefrom; 
         FIG.  11    is a rear perspective view of a micro-current cap module; 
         FIG.  12    is a perspective view of the vibration therapy device with the cleansing cap module exploded therefrom; 
         FIG.  13    is a perspective view of the vibration therapy device with a treatment member exploded therefrom; 
         FIG.  14    is a perspective view of the therapy member; 
         FIG.  15    is a cross-sectional view of the therapy member on the reciprocating attachment; 
         FIG.  16    is a perspective view of the therapy member in packaging with the lid partially peeled back; 
         FIG.  17 A  is a view showing the user interface and display with the light ring module symbol and vibration symbol illuminated; 
         FIG.  17 B  is a view showing the user interface and display with the heat ring module symbol and battery symbol illuminated; 
         FIG.  17 C  is a view showing the user interface and display with the micro-current cap module symbol illuminated; 
         FIG.  18    is top perspective view of a cooling attachment module in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG.  19    is a bottom view of the cooling attachment module of  FIG.  18   ; 
         FIG.  20    is an exploded view of the cooling attachment module; 
         FIG.  21    is a cross-sectional view of the cooling attachment module taken through the cooling protrusions; and 
         FIG.  22    is a cross-sectional view of the cooling attachment module taken through the spacer members between the cooling protrusions. 
     
    
    
     Like numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views of the drawings. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     The following description and drawings are illustrative and are not to be construed as limiting. Numerous specific details are described to provide a thorough understanding of the disclosure. However, in certain instances, well-known or conventional details are not described in order to avoid obscuring the description. References to one or an embodiment in the present disclosure can be, but not necessarily are references to the same embodiment; and, such references mean at least one of the embodiments. If a component is not shown in a drawing then this provides support for a negative limitation in the claims stating that that component is “not” present. However, the above statement is not limiting and in another embodiment, the missing component can be included in a claimed embodiment. 
     Reference in this specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “a preferred embodiment” or any other phrase mentioning the word “embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the-disclosure and also means that any particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with one embodiment can be included in any embodiment or can be omitted or excluded from any embodiment. The appearances of the phrase “in one embodiment” in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive of other embodiments. Moreover, various features are described which may be exhibited by some embodiments and not by others and may be omitted from any embodiment. Furthermore, any particular feature, structure, or characteristic described herein may be optional. Similarly, various requirements are described which may be requirements for some embodiments but not other embodiments. Where appropriate any of the features discussed herein in relation to one aspect or embodiment of the invention may be applied to another aspect or embodiment of the invention. Similarly, where appropriate any of the features discussed herein in relation to one aspect or embodiment of the invention may be optional with respect to and/or omitted from that aspect or embodiment of the invention or any other aspect or embodiment of the invention discussed or disclosed herein. 
     The terms used in this specification generally have their ordinary meanings in the art, within the context of the disclosure, and in the specific context where each term is used. Certain terms that are used to describe the disclosure are discussed below, or elsewhere in the specification, to provide additional guidance to the practitioner regarding the description of the disclosure. For convenience, certain terms may be highlighted, for example using italics and/or quotation marks: The use of highlighting has no influence on the scope and meaning of a term; the scope and meaning of a term is the same, in the same context, whether or not it is highlighted. 
     It will be appreciated that the same thing can be said in more than one way. Consequently, alternative language and synonyms may be used for any one or more of the terms discussed herein. No special significance is to be placed upon whether or not a term is elaborated or discussed herein. Synonyms for certain terms are provided. A recital of one or more synonyms does not exclude the use of other synonyms. The use of examples anywhere in this specification including examples of any terms discussed herein is illustrative only, and is not intended to further limit the scope and meaning of the disclosure or of any exemplified term. Likewise, the disclosure is not limited to various embodiments given in this specification. 
     Without intent to further limit the scope of the disclosure, examples of instruments, apparatus, methods and their related results according to the embodiments of the present disclosure are given below. Note that titles or subtitles may be used in the examples for convenience of a reader, which in no way should limit the scope of the disclosure. Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. In the case of conflict, the present document, including definitions, will control. 
     It will be appreciated that terms such as “front,” “back,” “top,” “bottom,” “side,” “short,” “long,” “up,” “down,” “aft,” “forward,” “inboard,” “outboard” and “below” used herein are merely for ease of description and refer to the orientation of the components as shown in the figures. It should be understood that any orientation of the components described herein is within the scope of the present invention. 
     Referring now to the drawings, which are for purposes of illustrating the present invention and not for purposes of limiting the same, the drawings show a vibration therapy system  10  that includes a vibration therapy device  12 , one or more reciprocating attachments  19  and one or more therapy modules  11 . The reciprocating attachments can have different shapes. The therapy modules  11  can have different shapes and include different types of therapy, such as light, micro-current, heat, cold, vibration, etc. 
     As shown in  FIGS.  1 - 3   , generally the vibration therapy device includes a housing  13  (two housing halves  13   a  and  13   b  are shown in  FIG.  3   ), a handle portion  14 , a head portion  15  and a switch  16  for activating the motor  17 .  FIGS.  1 - 8    show the vibration therapy device  12  with a therapy module  11  that is referred to herein as a ring module  18  (due to its shape with a central opening  18   a ) and a reciprocating attachment  19 . As shown in  FIG.  3   , in a preferred embodiment, the vibration therapy device  12  includes an electrical source, such as a battery  20 , positioned in the handle portion  14 , the motor  17  positioned in the head portion  15 , and a push rod assembly  21  operatively connected to the motor  17  and configured to reciprocate in response to activation of the motor  17 . 
     In a preferred embodiment, the rotation of the motor shaft  22  is converted to reciprocating motion of the push rod assembly  21 . As shown in  FIGS.  3 - 5   , in a preferred embodiment, the push rod assembly  21  includes a push rod  23  that is pivotably connected to a reciprocating shaft  24  (see pivot pin  25 ), and an attachment member  26  that is operatively connected to the reciprocating shaft  24 . In a preferred embodiment, the shaft  26   a  of the attachment member extends into and is connected within (via threads, friction fit, interference fit, etc.) an opening  24   a  defined in the reciprocating shaft  24 . The distal end of the attachment member  26  (which is also the distal end of the push rod assembly  21 ) removably receives the reciprocating attachment  19 . It will be appreciated that the term push rod assembly used herein includes any of the drive train components discussed herein or combinations thereof, e.g., push rod  23 , reciprocating shaft  24  and attachment member  26  or the like that provide reciprocating motion and include the reciprocating attachment on the distal end thereof. The push rod assembly also includes the attachment member  26  (and any related components, such as the magnet described below) or any other connector at the end of the reciprocating components that allows connection of a reciprocating attachment to be used for massage or therapy. 
     Preferably, the drive train also includes a counterweight member  28  between the motor shaft  22  and the push rod  23 . The motor shaft  22  is received in an opening in the counterweight member  28  and an offset shaft  29  extends from the counterweight member  28  and is received in an opening in the push rod  23 . The reciprocating shaft  24  extends through the bush  31  and bush holding structure  33 . 
     In a preferred embodiment, the motor  17  is secured to a motor mount  30  that includes a plurality of feet  32  that are secured to the housing  13  via threaded fasteners or the like that extend through openings in the feet  32 . Dampening rings  34  and dampening washers can also be included. All dampening components herein are made of rubber, silicone or the like and are provided to prevent plastic to plastic or plastic to metal contact and to reduce noise and vibration. 
     In a preferred embodiment, the attachment member  26  includes the shaft  26   a  and a magnet seat  26   b . The magnet seat  26   b  includes a magnet  27  received therein or otherwise operatively associated therewith. As shown in  FIG.  3   , the housing  13  includes a cap portion  35  that includes the module seat  50  and a protrusive portion  36 . The attachment member  26  extends through an opening in the cap portion such that the magnet seat  26   b  is located outside of the housing  13 , and particularly, the protrusive portion  36  of the housing  13 . As described above, The distal end of the attachment member  26  (the magnet seat  26   b ) removably receives the reciprocating attachment  19 . In a preferred embodiment, the magnet  27  in the attachment member is magnetically attracted to a magnet  27  in the reciprocating attachment  19  or other component placed on the attachment member  26 .  FIG.  3    shows an exemplary reciprocating attachment  19  including the main body portion  19   a , inner support portion  19   b  and magnet  27 . 
     As shown in  FIG.  2   , in a preferred embodiment, the head portion  15  includes a module seat  50  that removably receives the therapy modules  11 . As shown in  FIG.  6   , the vibration therapy system  10  includes an attachment system  44  for properly aligning or mounting and attaching or securing the various therapy modules  11  on the module seat  50 , as well as providing electrical connection or communication (if needed) between the therapy modules  11  and the vibration therapy device  12 . In a preferred embodiment, the attachment system  44  includes magnetic attraction between the module seat  50  and therapy module  11  and includes one or more complementary securement protrusions  48  and securement recesses  54  extending or protruding from the module seat  50  and/or the back of the therapy module  11 . The securement protrusions are received in the securement recesses. The attachment system  44  provides the ability to accommodate the swappable or interchangeable therapy modules  11  (e.g., ring module  18 ) with different facial treatment technologies. 
     As shown in  FIGS.  6 - 7   , in a preferred embodiment, one securement protrusion  48  extends from the back of the therapy module  11  and one securement recess  54  is defined in the module seat  50 . Also, one securement recess  54  is defined in the back of the therapy module  11  and one securement protrusion extends from the module seat  50 . In a preferred embodiment, at least one of the securement protrusions and at least one of the securement recess include one or more magnet members  52  associated therewith that are magnetically attracted to one another, that help secure the ring module  18  (or other therapy module  11 ) onto the module seat  50  and the vibration therapy device  12 . One, two or more magnet members can be included. The magnet members  52  are located within the housing of the therapy module and with the housing of the head portion. One or more magnet members  52  can also be located at other positions around the module seat  50  and the back of the therapy module  11 . 
     In a preferred embodiment, the system includes an electrical connection system  58  between the vibration therapy device  12  and the therapy module  11 . In a preferred embodiment, the therapy module  11  includes male electrical contacts  60  extending therefrom (see  FIGS.  6  and  10   ) and the module seat  50  includes complementary female electrical contacts  62 . Power is supplied from the battery  20 , through the male and female electrical contacts and to the LEDs or other powered components. It will be appreciated that the male and female electrical contacts can be reversed. In a preferred embodiment, the male or female electrical contacts are associated with one of the securement recesses  54  and one of the securement protrusions  48 . In the embodiment shown in the drawings, the securement protrusion  48  that extends from the back of the therapy module  11  is a magnetic securement protrusion and the securement recess  54  that is defined in the module seat  50  is a magnetic securement recess. Furthermore, the securement recess  54  that is defined in the back of the therapy module  11  is an electrical securement recess (and includes male electrical contacts) and the securement protrusion  48  that extends from the module seat  50  is an electrical securement protrusion (and includes female electrical contacts). 
     As shown in  FIG.  1   , in a preferred embodiment, the handle portion  14  forms an angle of about 120 degrees with the reciprocating shaft  24  to avoid blocking the user&#39;s view during treatment. Anywhere between 90 degrees and 180 degrees is within the scope of the invention. In another embodiment, the head portion can be rotatable and/or pivotable and/or swivelable with respect to the handle portion  14 . 
       FIG.  8    shows the components of the light ring module  18  including the printed circuit board  37  including the LEDs  38  and proximity sensors  39 . In a preferred embodiment, the proximity sensors  39  are positioned approximately 180° from another. With respect to 180°, approximately means within 10°. However, they can be positioned anywhere around the ring. The proximity sensors  39  are provided so that LED lights in the light module only turn on (or go from dimmed to “treatment level” or off to “treatment level”) when they are less than a predetermined distance from or the lens is in contact with the user&#39;s face or skin. In a preferred embodiment, one proximity sensor  39  is located at about twelve o&#39;clock on the PCB and the other is located at about six o&#39;clock. In use, after activating the light ring module, the lights remain off or in a dimmed state until the front surface of the module is placed within a predetermined distance of the user&#39;s face, at which point the lights brighten to a treatment level (where the lights will be effective for the desired treatment—e.g., red LED treatment, blue LED treatment or infrared). Preferably, the proximity sensors are programmed such that they only determine the proximity at intervals or at a predetermined frequency (e.g., every one second) so that the lights are not turning on and off every time the device is pulled away from the face or angled during use on the face such that the proximity sensor is out of range. Any type of proximity sensor can be used. In a preferred embodiment, the proximity sensor emits a beam that is reflected by the user&#39;s face. The sensor determines the distance with the face based on the time (or frequency) for the beam returning from the user&#39;s skin after reflection. It will be appreciated that by having two proximity sensors 180° apart, as long as one is within the predetermined range of distance from the skin (operating surface), the lights will not dim or turn off (or go to a point that is less than the desired treatment level or intensity of the lights). 
     As shown in  FIG.  8   , in a preferred embodiment, the light ring module includes a housing portion  40 , PCB  37 , cover or lens  41  and a light direction member  42  that includes a plurality of openings  43  defined therein. The openings  43  are each aligned with an LED  38  and provide a tunnel so that the light beams emitted from each of the LEDs are directed generally parallel to one another and, therefore, generally perpendicular to the cover  41  and the user&#39;s skin as the device is used. This helps prevent the light from shining outwardly and into the user&#39;s eyes during use. The ring module includes the central opening  18   a  and an outer surface  41   a . As shown in  FIG.  5   , in a preferred embodiment, the contact surface  19   c  of the reciprocating attachment  19  extends further from the module seat  50  than the outer surface  41   a  of the ring module  18 . Other types of ring modules with other therapies are in the scope of the present invention. 
       FIGS.  9 - 11    show another type of therapy module  11  referred to generally herein as a cap module and more specifically (for this particular module) as a micro-current cap module  118  that covers the magnet seat  26   b  of the attachment member  26 . The micro-current cap module  118  includes a main body portion  70  and a rear recess  72  defined therein that receives the attachment member  26  when the micro-current cap module  118  is fitted on the module seat  50 . The micro-current cap module  118  shown in  FIGS.  9 - 11    includes micro-current therapy. However, different cap modules can include other therapies. Micro-current therapy can also be included in a ring module. The micro-current cap module  118  includes first and second terminals or an anode and cathode  120 . This module includes an electrical connection and magnetic attraction just like the ring module  18  described above. As will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art, when the anode and cathode  120  are placed against a user&#39;s skin, an electrical connection is created and micro-current is transmitted into the user&#39;s skin to provide micro-current treatment. 
       FIG.  12    shows another type of cap module referred to herein as a cleansing cap module  74  that includes a plurality of bristles  76  thereon. The cleansing cap module  74  includes a main body portion  70  and recess that receives the attachment member  26  when the cleansing cap module  74  is fitted on the module seat  50 . The cleansing cap module  74  may also include (but preferably does not include) an electrical connection just like the ring module  18  described above. The cleansing cap module  74  preferably also includes a magnet  27  therein that is magnetically attracted to and connects to the magnet  27  in the attachment member  26 . As a result, in use, the cleansing cap module  74  reciprocates against the user&#39;s skin. In a preferred embodiment, the main body portion  70  preferably includes the complementary securement protrusions and recesses, like the other therapy modules  11 . Therefore, the cleansing cap module is configured to be removable secured to both the attachment member  26  (e.g., via magnets) and to the module seat  50  (e.g., via the complementary securement protrusions and recesses and/or magnet members). However, the complementary securement protrusions and recesses can also be omitted since connected is made between the central magnet  27  and the magnet in the attachment member  26 . A cleansing formulation can be placed on the bristles  76  during use. 
       FIGS.  13 - 16    show a preferred embodiment system for attaching a component with microfiber material thereon (referred to herein as a skin treatment member  88 ) to the reciprocating attachment  19 . In a preferred embodiment, the skin treatment member  88  includes lotion or some type of skin treatment ointment or fluid thereon and, therefore, is packaged in a pod member  90  that includes a container portion  92  and a lid  94 . In a preferred embodiment, the skin treatment member  88  includes a generally ring shaped main body portion  96  and a delivery portion  98  that is preferably made of microfiber and includes the lotion thereon. 
     In a preferred embodiment, the skin treatment member  88  is attachable or securable to the reciprocating attachment  19 . Preferably, the main body portion  96  includes one or more ridge members  100  on the inside surface thereof and extending inwardly that are received in one or more grooves  102  defined in the outer surface of the reciprocating attachment  19 . The skin treatment member  88  preferably also includes a handle or tab  106  extending from the main body portion  96  that aids with attachment and removal of the skin treatment member  88  from the reciprocating attachment  19 . In use, the skin treatment member  88  is removed from the pod member  90  (by peeling back the lid  94 ) and the treatment member is placed or seated on the reciprocating attachment  19 . It will be appreciated that the main body portion  96  is made of a flexible material (such as plastic) so the ridge members  100  flex over the reciprocating attachment  19  and snap into the groove  102  on the outer surface of the reciprocating attachment. The delivery portion stretches across or spans the top or outer contact surface of the reciprocating attachment  19 . The delivery portion  98  is then placed against the user&#39;s face and the device is activated such that the reciprocating attachment  19  (also referred to herein as a mallet) with the treatment member  88  thereon vibrates or percusses against the user&#39;s skin. After user, the use can pull on the tab  106  to separate the treatment member  88  from the mallet  19 . As shown in  FIG.  11   , the skin treatment member  88  can be placed on the mallet  19  when the ring module  18  is on the device. Therefore, the LED light therapy can be used simultaneously with the vibration therapy and the treatment member therapy. The groove  102  is preferably located further from the module seat  50  than the outer surface  41   a  or outside of the ring module so that the skin treatment member  88  secured in the groove can reciprocate outside of the ring module. 
       FIGS.  17 A- 17 C  show a control center  108  (or user interface—UI) that includes a display screen  110  and one or more buttons and/or switches that can be used for controlling the device  12  and the various therapy modules  11 . The buttons can control different modes, different intensities, etc. In a preferred embodiment, the control center includes display screen  110 , motor toggle button  126  (for toggling through different frequencies or speeds for the attachment member  26  and any reciprocating attachment thereon), module toggle button  128  (for toggling through different intensities or options for the therapy modules electrically connected to the device) and a power switch  16 .  FIG.  17 A  shows the display screen  110  with the motor speed level  112  at the top and the therapy module level  114  (with the light ring module symbol thereon) at the bottom.  FIG.  17 B  shows the display screen  110  with the battery level  116  at the top and the therapy module level  114  (with the heat ring module symbol thereon) at the bottom.  FIG.  17 C  shows the display screen  110  with nothing on the top and the therapy module level  114  (with the micro-current symbol thereon) at the bottom. Other symbols and the like that can be shown in the display screen include Bluetooth. It will be appreciated that the control center  108  is in data communication with the controller and associated components for controlling the device  12 . Preferably, the device can sense or determine what type of therapy module has been seated on an electrically connected to the device. This allows the module toggle button  128  to toggle through the modes of the proper module and for the proper therapy module level to be displayed on display  110 . Furthermore, in use, when a cap module (e.g., micro-current module  118 ) is seated on the module seat and electrically connected to the device, the motor is not activated (to reciprocate the attachment member) because the attachment member and magnet seat is located inside the cap module. When a ring module is seated on the device, the motor can be activated so that the reciprocating attachment can reciprocate within the central opening of the ring module. 
     It will be appreciated that all or some of the components discussed herein can be contained, sold or distributed in a kit. In other words, the vibration therapy system can be provided to users as a kit (e.g., within a case, box, bag or the like). The kit can include the vibration therapy device, one or more reciprocating attachments and one or more therapy modules. For example, an exemplary kit includes the device, the light ring module, the micro-current cap module, the reciprocating attachment with the groove therearound a and charger all within a case or container. 
       FIGS.  18 - 22    show a preferred embodiment of a cooling attachment module  130  that can be used with the vibration therapy device  10 . As shown in  FIGS.  18 - 19   , in a preferred embodiment, the cooling attachment module  130  includes first and second cooling protrusions  132 , cover member  134  and heat sink member  136 . Similar to other attachment modules discussed herein, preferably, the cooling attachment module  130  also includes a securement protrusion  48  that extends from the back or bottom thereof (and mates with the securement recess  54  in the module seat  50 ), and a securement recess  54  defined in the back thereof that mates with the securement protrusion on the module seat  50 . 
     The cooling attachment module  130  also preferably includes male electrical contacts  60  extending therefrom that mate with complementary female electrical contacts  62  on the module seat. Power is supplied from the battery  20 , through the male and female electrical contacts and to the controllable temperature element (described further below) or other powered components. It will be appreciated that the male and female electrical contacts can be reversed. In a preferred embodiment, the male electrical contacts are associated with the securement recesses  54 . 
     As shown in  FIGS.  20 - 21   , in a preferred embodiment, the cooling attachment module  130  includes cover member  134  spreader member  138  (with cooling protrusions  132 ) one or more controllable temperature elements  140 , heat sink member  136 , pcb member or electrical control member  142  and base portion  144 . The cover member  134  includes first and second cooling protrusion openings  146  defined therein through which the cooling protrusions extend  132  so that they can contact the user&#39;s body part/skin in use. 
     From a review of the drawings, it will be appreciated that the heat sink member  136  is also the housing of the cooling attachment module  130 . The heat sink member  136  includes a cooling recess  148  (preferably ring shaped) defined in the upper surface thereof and, as shown in  FIG.  21   , the controllable temperature element  140  is positioned in the cooling recess  148  with spreader member  138  positioned on and in contact with the upper surface of the controllable temperature element  140 . The cover member  134  is positioned over the cooling recess  148  and is secured to the heat sink member  136  to contain the controllable temperature element  140  and spreader member  138  within the cooling recess  148 . The controllable temperature element  140  is configured to transfer thermal energy to a lower surface of the spreader member  138  and the cooling protrusions  132  extend through the cover member  134  and outside of the cooling recess  148  for contact with the user&#39;s body part. PCB  142  is in electrical communication with the controllable temperature element  140 . Cooling of the upper surface of the controllable temperature element  140  causes the lower surface to heat up, which heat is dissipated through the heat sink member  136 . The heat sink member  136  also includes inner and outer walls  150  and  152  and includes a central opening  166  defined therethrough. It will be appreciated that the term cooling is used herein as the commercial embodiment of the invention is directed to cold therapy. However, it will be appreciated that this is not limiting and the device can also be used for heating. The controllable temperature element can be configured to transfer hot or cold to the spreader member. Therefore, the use of cooling within the claims or anywhere else herein can also include heating or any transfer of thermal energy. 
     The lower surface of the controllable temperature element  140  is in contact with heat sink member  136 , which is configured to pull or dissipate heat from the lower surface of the controllable temperature element  140 . It will be appreciated that a heat sink is able to dissipate more heat based on having a greater surface area. Therefore, the heat sink member  136  or housing is much thicker (in an axial direction) than the controllable temperature element  140 , thereby providing inner and outer surfaces (the inner surface of the inner wall  150  and that outer surface of the outer wall  152  that provide a large amount of surface area for heat dissipation). As shown in  FIG.  21   , the heat sink member  136  is a unitary or single piece that is made of a metal that conducts heat away from the lower surface of the controllable temperature element  140 , to the inner and outer walls  150  and  152 , where the heat is dissipated to the air. 
     In a preferred embodiment, the base member  144  includes one or more magnet members  52  associated therewith that help secure the cooling attachment module  130  onto the module seat  50  and the vibration therapy device  12 . One, two or more magnet members can be included. The magnet members  52  are received in magnet recesses  154  defined in the base portion  144 . 
     In a preferred embodiment, one or more electrical communication tunnels  155  or paths are defined through the heat sink member  136  (defined between the upper surface and the lower surface of the heat sink member) and power is routed from the electrical connector (the male electrical contacts  60  in the embodiment in the drawings) through the electrical communication tunnel  155  and to the controllable temperature element  140 . Preferably, a one or more wires or the like (not shown) are routed through the electrical communication tunnel  155  to power the controllable temperature element  140 . Preferably, the heat sink member  136  also includes a component tunnel  157  (which may be used as an electrical communication tunnel) that includes a number of components therein. As shown in  FIG.  20   , the heat sink member  136  may include a waterproof washer  156  and an isolation washer  158  positioned in each component tunnel  157 . In an embodiment, these components may include openings through the center thereof for at least partially defining the electrical communication path to the controllable temperature element  140 . The isolation washer  158  can include upwardly extending protrusions that define a recess therebetween. In a preferred embodiment, one or more heat insulation gaskets  160  are positioned between the controllable temperature elements  140 . The heat insulation gaskets  160  include an opening defined therethrough. One or more fixed buckles  162  may also be included on an inner or outer surface of the cover member  134  and adjacent the first and second cooling protrusion openings  146 . 
     Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words “comprise,” “comprising,” and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense, as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of “including, but not limited to.” As used herein, the terms “connected,” “coupled,” or any variant thereof, means any connection or coupling, either direct or indirect, between two or more elements; the coupling of connection between the elements can be physical, logical, or a combination thereof. Additionally, the words “herein,” “above,” “below,” and words of similar import, when used in this application, shall refer to this application as a whole and not to any particular portions of this application. Where the context permits, words in the above Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments using the singular or plural number may also include the plural or singular number respectively. The word “or” in reference to a list of two or more items, covers all of the following interpretations of the word: any of the items in the list, all of the items in the list, and any combination of the items in the list. 
     The above-detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the teachings to the precise form disclosed above. While specific embodiments of and examples for the disclosure are described above for illustrative purposes, various equivalent modifications are possible within the scope of the disclosure, as those skilled in the relevant art will recognize. Further, any specific numbers noted herein are only examples: alternative implementations may employ differing values, measurements or ranges. 
     Although the operations of any method(s) disclosed or described herein either explicitly or implicitly are shown and described in a particular order, the order of the operations of each method may be altered so that certain operations may be performed in an inverse order or so that certain operations may be performed, at least in part, concurrently with other operations. In another embodiment, instructions or sub-operations of distinct operations may be implemented in an intermittent and/or alternating manner. 
     The teachings of the disclosure provided herein can be applied to other systems, not necessarily the system described above. The elements and acts of the various embodiments described above can be combined to provide further embodiments. Any measurements or dimensions described or used herein are merely exemplary and not a limitation on the present invention. Other measurements or dimensions are within the scope of the invention. 
     Any patents and applications and other references noted above, including any that may be listed in accompanying filing papers, are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Aspects of the disclosure can be modified, if necessary, to employ the systems, functions, and concepts of the various references described above to provide yet further embodiments of the disclosure. 
     These and other changes can be made to the disclosure in light of the above Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments. While the above description describes certain embodiments of the disclosure, and describes the best mode contemplated, no matter how detailed the above appears in text, the teachings can be practiced in many ways. Details of the system may vary considerably in its implementation details, while still being encompassed by the subject matter disclosed herein. As noted above, particular terminology used when describing certain features or aspects of the disclosure should not be taken to imply that the terminology is being redefined herein to be restricted to any specific characteristics, features or aspects of the disclosure with which that terminology is associated. In general, the terms used in the following claims should not be construed to limit the disclosures to the specific embodiments disclosed in the specification unless the above Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments section explicitly defines such terms. Accordingly, the actual scope of the disclosure encompasses not only the disclosed embodiments, but also all equivalent ways of practicing or implementing the disclosure under the claims. 
     While certain aspects of the disclosure are presented below in certain claim forms, the inventors contemplate the various aspects of the disclosure in any number of claim forms. For example, while only one aspect of the disclosure is recited as a means-plus-function claim under 35 U.S.C. § 112, ¶6, other aspects may likewise be embodied as a means-plus-function claim, or in other forms, such as being embodied in a computer-readable medium. (Any claims intended to be treated under 35 U.S.C. § 112, ¶6 will include the words “means for”). Accordingly, the applicant reserves the right to add additional claims after filing the application to pursue such additional claim forms for other aspects of the disclosure. 
     Accordingly, although exemplary embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, it is to be understood that all the terms used herein are descriptive rather than limiting, and that many changes, modifications, and substitutions may be made by one having ordinary skill in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.