Abstract:
The invention relates to a convertible plate having a pedestal collar with a flange defining an interior channel for detachably securing a pedestal to the bottom of the plate, wherein detachably mounting the convertible plate on the pedestal forms a display assembly, and methods of doing the same.

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0001]    Field of the Invention 
         [0002]    The invention relates to a convertible plate having a pedestal collar with a flange defining an interior channel for detachably securing a pedestal to the bottom of the plate, wherein detachably mounting the convertible plate on the pedestal forms a display assembly, and methods of doing the same. 
         [0003]    Candle holders provide a means of holding a candle in place during events, such as dinner parties and formal dinners. However, the unique designs and features of candle holders are rather limited in that candle holders are utilized in very limited circumstances. Similarly true dessert plates are typically placed on a table or credenza to display various desserts and treats. However, the dessert platter is typically set on the surface of the table or elevated on boxes or pedestals. Each of the individual aforementioned items are classically utilized in unique, but separate circumstances. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0004]    In one preferred embodiment, there is provided a convertible plate comprising: (i) a plate having a bottom portion, the bottom portion having a central pedestal seat area and a peripheral rim area; (ii) a pedestal collar on the central pedestal seat area of the bottom portion of the plate, the pedestal collar comprising at least one collar arm defining a receiving aperture and encompassing the central pedestal seat area on the bottom portion; and (iii) a flange on the pedestal collar, the flange defining an interior channel adjacent the bottom of the convertible plate for securing a lip portion of a pedestal; wherein detachably mounting the convertible plate on the pedestal forms a display assembly. 
         [0005]    In a preferred embodiment, there is also provided a convertible plate, wherein the pedestal collar comprises a configuration selected from (i) a U-shaped configuration and (ii) a circular configuration, the U-shaped configuration comprising a curved catch portion that connects proximal ends of a first collar arm and a second collar arm, the first and second collar arms defining a receiving aperture opposite the curved catch portion, and a flared guide and a bias element is attached to each distal end of the first and second collar arms for receiving and securing the lip portion of the pedestal, and, the circular configuration comprising a continuous band, the continuous band selected from a flexible band and a rigid band, the flange of the flexible band is deformable to receive the lip portion of the pedestal, and the flange of the rigid band having grooves and threading to receive the lip portion of the pedestal. 
         [0006]    In a preferred embodiment, there is also provided a convertible plate, wherein the convertible plate has a perimeter shape that is selected from round, oval, square, rectangular, triangular, regular polyhedron, and irregular polyhedron. 
         [0007]    In a preferred embodiment, there is also provided a convertible plate, wherein the convertible plate comprises a footer, and wherein the pedestal collar is lower in height from the bottom of the plate than the footer. 
         [0008]    In a preferred embodiment, there is also provided a convertible plate, wherein the plate is selected from earthenware, stoneware, porcelain, bone china, glass, melamine, ceramic, steel, stainless steel, iron, copper, aluminum, acrylic, styrene, polypropylene, acrylic blend, polycarbonate, tritan, wood, silicone, metal, and combination thereof. 
         [0009]    In a preferred embodiment, there is also provided a convertible plate wherein the plate and the collar are different materials. 
         [0010]    In a preferred embodiment, there is also provided a method of converting a plate to a display platter, the steps comprising: (i) providing a convertible plate as described herein; and (ii) detachably mounting a pedestal having a lip portion into the pedestal collar of the central pedestal seat area of the bottom portion of the plate; wherein the lip portion of the pedestal is received into the interior channel that is defined by the flange adjacent to the bottom of the convertible plate. 
         [0011]    In a preferred embodiment, there is also provided a method as described herein, wherein the pedestal collar comprises a configuration selected from (i) a U-shaped configuration and (ii) a circular configuration, the U-shaped configuration comprising a curved catch portion that connects proximal ends of a first collar arm and a second collar arm, the first and second collar arms defining a receiving aperture opposite the curved catch portion, and a flared guide and a bias element is attached to each distal end of the first and second collar arms for receiving and securing the lip portion of the pedestal, and, the circular configuration comprising a continuous band, the continuous band selected from a flexible band and a rigid band, the flange of the flexible band is deformable to receive the lip portion of the pedestal, and the flange of the rigid band having grooves and threading to receive the lip portion of the pedestal. 
         [0012]    In a preferred embodiment, there is also provided a combination dessert plate comprising: a plate having a bottom portion; a seal disposed upon said bottom portion comprising at least one inner edge and an outer edge; and a candle holder, wherein a portion of said candle holder is positioned adjacent at least one inner edge and wherein said seal is capable of releasably engaging said candle holder when said plate is disposed thereon. 
         [0013]    In one example embodiment, a combination dessert plate includes a plate having a bottom portion and a seal disposed upon said bottom portion comprising at least one inner edge and an outer edge. The plate assembly further includes a candle holder, wherein a portion of said candle holder is positioned adjacent at least one inner edge and wherein said seal is capable of releasably engaging said candle holder when said plate is disposed thereon. 
         [0014]    In another example embodiment, a method of using a bias lock mechanism is disclosed that includes the steps of disposing a candle holder on a surface, wherein said candle holder having a top edge that includes a portion for receiving a candle. The method further includes the step of positioning a plate over said candle holder, wherein said plate having a bottom portion with a seal attached thereon, wherein said seal having an inner edge and an outer edge, and disposing said plate on said top edge of said candle holder. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0015]    The invention will be further explained with reference to the appended Figures, wherein like structure is referred to by like numerals through the several views. 
           [0016]      FIG. 1  illustrates a bottom perspective view of a convertible plate assembly. 
           [0017]      FIG. 2  describes a side perspective view of a convertible plate/candle holder assembly. 
           [0018]      FIG. 3  describes a top view of a convertible plate mounted on a base. 
           [0019]      FIG. 4  describes a top view of a square embodiment of a convertible plate. 
           [0020]      FIG. 5  describes a bottom view of a square embodiment of a convertible plate. 
           [0021]      FIG. 6  describes a side or plan view of a square embodiment of a convertible plate. 
           [0022]      FIG. 7  describes a side perspective view of a square embodiment of a convertible plate. 
           [0023]      FIG. 8  illustrates a perspective from below view of a square embodiment of a convertible plate mounted on a base. 
           [0024]      FIG. 9  illustrates a bottom view of a circular embodiment of a convertible plate. 
           [0025]      FIG. 10  shows an example of a base for the convertible plate in the form of a candle holder. 
           [0026]      FIG. 11  illustrates a bottom view of a circular embodiment of a convertible plate having a larger attachment or sealing mechanism in relation to the size of the convertible plate. 
           [0027]      FIG. 12  shows another example of a base for the convertible plate in the form of a candle holder. 
           [0028]      FIG. 13  shows a partial view of an other example of a base for the convertible plate in the form of a candle holder that extends to the bottom of the convertible plate. 
           [0029]      FIG. 14  shows a partial view of an other example of a base for the convertible plate in the form of a candle holder wherein only the bell makes contact with bottom of the convertible plate. 
           [0030]      FIG. 15  illustrates in a cross-section view an example of an embodiment of a convertible plate having a deformable attachment mechanism. 
           [0031]      FIG. 16  illustrates in a cross-section view an example of an embodiment of a convertible plate having a grooved or threaded attachment mechanism. 
           [0032]      FIG. 17  illustrates in a bottom view an example of an embodiment of a convertible plate having a slidable or vise-type attachment mechanism. 
           [0033]      FIG. 18  illustrates in a bottom view an example of an embodiment of a convertible plate having one or more slidable attachment arms in a slidable arm attachment mechanism. 
           [0034]      FIG. 19  illustrates in a bottom view an example of an embodiment of a convertible plate having a double-base attachment mechanism. 
           [0035]      FIG. 20  illustrates a side perspective view of a convertible plate where the attachment mechanism extends beyond the height of the footer of the plate. 
           [0036]      FIG. 21  shows another example of a decoration base for the convertible plate in the form of a candle holder. 
           [0037]      FIG. 22  shows another example of a decorative base for the convertible plate in the form of a candle holder. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0038]    Following are more detailed descriptions of various related concepts related to, and embodiments of, methods and apparatus according to the present disclosure. It should be appreciated that various aspects of the subject matter introduced above and discussed in greater detail below may be implemented in any of numerous ways, as the subject matter is not limited to any particular manner of implementation. Examples of specific implementations and applications are provided primarily for illustrative purposes. 
         [0039]    Combining the two items you have a candle holder that transforms into a base for a dessert plate. The plate may be generally placed on the top portion of a candle holder. 
         [0040]    The pedestal collar may be made from the same material as the plate. For example, the plate may be made from earthenware, stoneware, porcelain, bone china, glass, melamine, ceramic, steel, stainless steel, iron, copper, aluminum, acrylic, styrene, polypropylene, acrylic blend, polycarbonate, tritan, wood, silicone, metal, and combinations thereof. 
         [0041]    The term “deformable” means being easily shaped or molded. Deformable metal refers to reversible plastic deformation, especially a malleable deformation where the material can be bent, formed or shaped without cracking or bending, and where when a, e.g. bending, force is applied, the material does not elastically return to its former shape, but retains the shape it is given. 
         [0042]    The term “elastic” means being easily shaped or molded, but where the material elastically returns to its prior shape. 
         [0043]    The term “polymer” means polycarbonates, nylon, polyurethanes, polyesters, low density polyethylenes, high density polyethylenes, polypropylenes, polystyrenes, polyvinyl chlorides, polychlorotrifluoroethylenes, natural rubbers, synthetic rubbers such as neoprene and butadiene rubbers, silicones (polysiloxanes), block co-polymers, composite polymers and impregnated polymers, e.g. silnylon. Polymers are materials that can coat, can bend and deform, resists cracking, resists degrading, powdering, or peeling, resists migrating, resists sticking to external surfaces, provides tackiness or grip texture, among other properties. Tackiness can be defined as having a low glass transition temperature, including gtt from 15-45 degrees Celsius. Examples of tacky materials include natural rubbers, synthetic rubbers including acrylonitrile butadiene “nitrile rubber”, nylon, and polymers based on vinyl methyl ether, vinyl ethyl ether, and vinyl isobutyl ether. Such polymers may be formulated with cellulose nitrate, chlorinated binders, styrene copolymers, and similar materials useful for surface coatings. 
         [0044]    Where a collar requires a stiffer material and uses a spring bias, a stiffer material or composite is necessarily used to make the collar and/or the plate. Where a collar requires a bendable material and uses a deformation or elastic mechanism, an elastic or deformable material or composite is necessarily used to make the collar and/or the plate. 
         [0045]      FIG. 1  illustrates a bottom perspective view of an embodiment of a convertible plate assembly. Convertible plate  10  has pedestal collar  12  positioned in the center area of plate bottom  28 . Pedestal collar  12  has first collar arm  14  and second collar arm  16  connected by catch  18  and defining receiving aperture  20 . Plate  22  has rim  26 , footer  24 , and bottom  28 . Each collar arm  14 ,  16  has flared guide  30  and flange  32 . 
         [0046]    In operation, flange  32  defines channel  34  of pedestal collar  12  for receiving lip  38  of the bell  40  of pedestal  42  into each collar arm  14 ,  16 . Notch  36  operates as a biasing element to secure bell  40  into pedestal seat  44  after the bell  40  is slid into receiving aperture  20  of pedestal collar  12 . 
         [0047]      FIG. 2  describes a side perspective view of a convertible plate  10 /candle holder assembly.  FIG. 2  shows pedestal collar attached to the plate bottom  28 . Pedestal collar has first collar arm  14  with flared guide  30 , and second collar arm  16  with flared guide  31 . The collar arms  14 ,  16  define the receiving aperture  20 , and together with catch  18 , form the perimeter of the pedestal seat  44 . Pedestal  42  has bell  40  and lip  38 , which operatively engages the collar arms  14 ,  16  at the aperture  20  so the bell  40  of pedestal  42  slides into the seat  44 , transforming the convertible plate into a display platform. 
         [0048]      FIG. 3  describes a top view of a convertible plate mounted on a base. When assembled, the convertible plate  10  with plate  22  and pedestal  42  form a display platform suitable for displaying and presenting food items and/or decorative items. 
         [0049]      FIG. 4  describes a top view of a square embodiment of a convertible plate.  FIG. 4  shows plate top  50  and plate rim  56 . 
         [0050]      FIG. 5  describes a bottom view of a square embodiment of a convertible plate.  FIG. 5  shows collar  52  within the perimeter of the footer  54 . Collar  52  is shown having flare segments  60 ,  61  at the terminus of collar arm  64  and  66 . Catch  68  connects the collar arms  64 ,  66  and defines the seat area  74 . 
         [0051]      FIG. 6  describes a side or plan view of a square embodiment of a convertible plate.  FIG. 6  shows rim  56  and footer  54 . 
         [0052]      FIG. 7  describes a side perspective view of a square embodiment of a convertible plate.  FIG. 7  shows rim  56 , with footer  54  encompassing collar  52 . Receiving aperture  70  is seen in this view. 
         [0053]      FIG. 8  illustrates a perspective from below view of a square embodiment of a convertible plate mounted on a base.  FIG. 8  shows pedestal collar  62  attached to the plate bottom  68 . Pedestal collar  62  has first collar arm  64  with flared guide  30 , and second collar arm  66  with flared guide  31 . The collar arms  64 ,  66  define the receiving aperture  70 , and together with catch  78  (not shown), form the perimeter of the pedestal seat  74  (not visible). Pedestal  42  has bell  40  and lip  38 , which operatively engages the collar arms  64 ,  66  at the aperture  70  so the bell  40  of pedestal  42  slides into the seat  74 , transforming the convertible plate into a display platform. 
         [0054]    In a preferred embodiment, lip  38  slides into a flange and channel structure as in  FIG. 1 . The pedestals/bases do not require any specific shape of lip  38 . Lip  38  can be a mere extension of bell  40  that engages with flange and channel, or lip  38  can be an extended feature. Flange may made of rigid material or may be made of flexible material. The collar arms and flange may be of the same or of different materials. Flange provides an axial bias (in the direction of the standing height of the pedestal) to engage and secure the lip of the bell of the base/pedestal. 
         [0055]    Another bias feature include the notch  36  as seen in  FIG. 1  (not visible in  FIG. 8 ). The notch may be a simple bead or may be an angular narrowing segment to create a lateral bias against the lip of the bell. 
         [0056]      FIG. 9  illustrates a bottom view of a circular embodiment of a convertible plate  110  with rim  126 .  FIG. 10  shows an example of a base/pedestal  42  for the convertible plate  110  in the form of a candle holder.  FIG. 11  illustrates a bottom view of a circular embodiment of a convertible plate  110  having a larger attachment or sealing mechanism in relation to the size of the convertible plate.  FIG. 12  shows another example of a base  42  for the convertible plate  110  in the form of a candle holder. 
         [0057]    Referring now to  FIGS. 9 and 11 , plate  10  generally includes a bottom portion  115 ,  215  and a seal  120 ,  220  disposed thereon. Seal  120 ,  220  may be made of a number of materials. In one example embodiment, as shown in  FIG. 9  and  FIG. 11 , seal  120  and  220  is fashioned with an inner edge  125 ,  225  and an outer edge  130 ,  230 . The inner edge may be in the form flange and channel, and the outer edge providing a structural portion of flange. Each of the aforementioned edges may have a regular edge or may have an irregular edge. Without being limited either way, the edges are shown with an irregular or non-symmetrical surface for emphasis but are intended to encompass both types, or even combinations of both regular and irregular within the same item. 
         [0058]    In at least these example embodiments, the inner edge  125 ,  225  will provide securement to the candleholder. In an alternative related embodiment, the seal may include symmetrical edges. Although not wanting to be bound by any particular theory the bottom surface  150 ,  250  of seal  120 ,  220  will be generally level to prevent a serving dishing from rocking when placed on a surface. 
         [0059]    It should be appreciated that seal(s)  120 ,  220  are integral with the plate bottom and/or are manufactured as a permanent feature disposed on bottom portion  115 ,  215 . In an alternative embodiment, seal(s)  120 ,  220  may be configured as multiple elements, with a base element integrally part of the plate, with intermediate gaskets or multi-component attachment/securement devices removeably disposed on the base element of the bottom portion  115 ,  215 . 
         [0060]    Seal(s)  120 ,  220  is structured in a manner to allow the top outer edge  38  of candle holder bell  40 , and the top inner edge  72  of candle holder  71  of pedestal  40 , as shown in  FIG. 10  and  FIG. 12 , to securely connect with bottom portion  115 ,  215  and inner edge  125 ,  225  of seal, as shown in  FIG. 9  and  FIG. 11 . This functionality provides one with the ability to conveniently attach a plate to a candle holder for use to display and/or serve a variety of desserts, treats, and related foodstuffs. 
         [0061]    Plate  110  and candle holder  40  are individually functional, but together they create new versatile piece, thereby expanding one&#39;s display capabilities for dinner parties, gatherings and the like. When in use candle holder  40  will be positioned in an upright manner to provide a base to attached plate  110  thereon. When plate  110  is positioned over candle holder  40 , seal  120 ,  220  is removeably coupled to plate  110  to candle holder  40 . 
         [0062]    Although seal  120 ,  220  will be fairly rigid to provide a sufficient amount of securement to withstand the weight associated with a plate having foodstuffs thereon, the securement is not so robust as to require an excessive amount of force to remove plate  110  from candle holder  40  when the combination is no longer desired. The sealing mechanism  155 ,  255  could be a number of features, such as intrinsic material rigidity, a spring bias mechanism, or turn-knob locking mechanism. Another sealing mechanism  155 ,  255  for connecting the plate  110  to the candle holder  40  may comprise seal  120 ,  220  with a turn connector, similar to opening and closing a bottle or removing a gas cap. 
         [0063]      FIG. 13  shows a partial cross-sectional view of an other example of a base for the convertible plate  310  in the form of a candle holder  371  that extends to the bottom  328  of the convertible plate  310 . Plate rim  326  and plate top  350  are shown along with plate footer  324  and collar  312  in cross-section. Collar  312  is shown receiving lip  338  of bell  340  of the pedestal/base. Collar  312  may include a flange and channel securing mechanism. The pedestal has candle cavity  373  and candle holder  371 , which extends completely up to the same level of plate bottom  328 . 
         [0064]      FIG. 14  shows a partial cross-sectional view of an other example of a base for the convertible plate  410  in the form of a candle holder  472  wherein only the bell  440  makes contact with bottom  428  of the convertible plate  410 . Plate rim  426  and plate top  450  are shown along with plate footer  424  and collar  412  in cross-section. Collar  412  is shown receiving lip  438  of bell  440  of the pedestal/base  442 . Collar  412  is shown having a screw-type threading in cross-section. Collar  412  has a downward post that may be perpendicular to the plate bottom  428 . This can provide a biasing laterally in the direction of the center of the plate. Cooperative threading on collar  412  secures the lip of the bell in a vertical direction, parallel with the axis of the pedestal. 
         [0065]      FIG. 15  illustrates in a cross-section view an example of an embodiment of a convertible plate  550  having an elastic or a deformable collar  512  attachment mechanism. Lip  538  of pedestal (not shown) is pushed against the elastic or deformable collar  512  until the collar moves laterally and expands the opening for the lip  538  of the pedestal to be received. In this embodiment, a circular attachment mechanism, such as in  FIGS. 9 and 11 , can be used to securely attach a pedestal to a convertible plate. Where the collar is elastic, the material has a natural bias and returns to its original shape to attachment and secure the pedestal. Where a collar is deformable, the user can bend the collar aside, position the pedestal, and then bend the collar back over the lip of the pedestal to attach and secure the pedestal to the plate. 
         [0066]      FIG. 16  illustrates in a cross-section view an example of an embodiment of a convertible plate  650  having a grooved or threaded (screw-type) collar  612  attachment mechanism. Lip  638  of pedestal (not shown) is engaged with grooved or threaded collar  612  allowing the lip  638  of the pedestal to be received. In this embodiment, a circular attachment mechanism, such as in  FIGS. 9 and 11 , can be used to securely attach a pedestal to a convertible plate.  FIG. 16  shows groove  615  and thread  613  on an inner surface of collar  612 . Lip  638  is shown having bead  639  and shoulder  637  for engaging the threads of collar  612 . 
         [0067]      FIG. 17  illustrates in a bottom view an example of an embodiment of a convertible plate having a slidable or vise-type collar attachment mechanism. Catch  718  is shown opposite slidable arm  714 . Slidable arm  714  moves along tracks  711 ,  713  integrated into plate  722 . Catch  718  and slidable arm  714  open to receive a pedestal through aperture  720 . Slidable arm  714  is then moved laterally to close or narrow the aperture  720 , which locks the pedestal into place in the pedestal seat  744 . Catch  718  is shown having flange and channel (dotted line). Slidable arm  714  may also optionally have a flange and channel securement mechanism (dotted line). 
         [0068]      FIG. 18  illustrates in a bottom view an example of an embodiment of a convertible plate having one or more slidable attachment arms in a slidable arm attachment mechanism. Catch  818  is shown connecting two slidable arms  814 ,  816 . Arm  814  has flexible portion  811  connecting moveable flange portion  830 , and arm  816  has flexible portion  813  connecting moveable flange portion  831 . Flange portions  833 ,  835  of arms  814 ,  816  move within integrated tracks  833 ,  835  in plate bottom  822 . Detailed view shows flange  830  on arm  814  having bead  815  for moving within the groove  817  of track  831 ,  833 . 
         [0069]    Catch  818  is shown having flange and channel (bumped out line). Flexible arms  814 ,  816  may also optionally have a flange and channel securement mechanism (bumped out lines). Note that flange and channel may optionally extend fully around the circumference of the collar, including the flexible portions of the collar. Alternatively, the flange and channel may only extend partially along the inner surface of the collar. 
         [0070]      FIG. 19  illustrates in a bottom view an example of an embodiment of a convertible plate having a double-base collar attachment mechanism. Collar  912  and collar  1012  are shown are operated as previously described herein. Collars  912  and  11012  are shown having access apertures  920  and  1020  pointing in opposite directions. Catch is shown having optional flange and channel (bump out line). Collar arms may also optionally have a flange and channel securement mechanism (bump out line). 
         [0071]      FIG. 20  illustrates a side perspective view of a convertible plate where the attachment mechanism extends beyond the height of the footer of the plate. Plate rim  1126  and plate footer  1124  define a perimeter that encompasses tall collar  1112 . Tall collar  1112  is shown having a height from the plate bottom  1128  that is greater than the height of the plate footer  1124  from the bottom  1128 . Arms  1114  and  1116  connected by catch  1118  form the tall collar  1112 . Notch bias elements  1136 ,  1137  are shown on arms  1114 ,  1116  positioned between the catch  1118  and the flange  1130 ,  1132 . Optional flange is shown along the top of the inner surface of the collar. 
         [0072]      FIG. 21  shows another example of a decoration base for the convertible plate in the form of a candle holder having pedestal  40  with bell  38  and lip  1172 . 
         [0073]      FIG. 22  shows another example of a decorative base for the convertible plate in the form of a candle holder having pedestal  40  with bell  38  and lip  1172 . 
         [0074]    Various embodiments of the dessert plate assembly described herein can be used in decorating weddings, all types of parties, home decor, store and restaurant displays. Candle holder can be used as a regular candlestick holder as decorating the home, parties, wedding decor, store displays, etc. After attaching the two items, it then adds personality to anything that is placed on the dessert plate. The candle holder provides style and the height gives it a presence along with the beautiful accompanying plate. Together they can be used on dining tables, buffet displays, entertainment centers, table centerpieces, displaying desserts, bakery shops and restaurants. 
         [0075]    In preferred embodiments, the convertible plate has a perimeter shape that is selected from round, oval, square, rectangular, triangular, regular polyhedron, and irregular polyhedron. 
         [0076]    In other preferred embodiments, the convertible plate is selected from earthenware, stoneware, porcelain, bone china, glass, melamine, ceramic, steel, stainless steel, iron, copper, aluminum, acrylic, styrene, polypropylene, acrylic blend, polycarbonate, tritan, wood, silicone, metal, and combination thereof. 
         [0077]    In one preferred embodiment, the plate and the collar are made from the same material. In another embodiment, the plate and the collar are made from different materials. 
         [0078]    Having thus described several illustrative embodiments, it is to be appreciated that various alterations, modifications, and improvements will readily occur to those skilled in the art. Such alterations, modifications, and improvements are intended to be part of this disclosure, and are intended to be within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. While some examples presented herein involve specific combinations of functions or structural elements, it should be understood that those functions and elements may be combined in other ways according to the present invention to accomplish the same or different objectives. In particular, acts, elements, and features discussed in connection with one embodiment are not intended to be excluded from similar or other roles in other embodiments. Accordingly, the foregoing description and attached drawings are by way of example only, and are not intended to be limiting.