Patent ID: 12193833

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG.1illustrates an exploded view of a sleep training device100. The sleep training device100can function as a combination sunrise alarm, nightlight, wind-down clock, alarm clock, and sound-emitting device. For example, the sleep training device100can produce light and sound(s) in a manner that aids a user in falling asleep as part of a wind-down routine and/or aids the user in waking up gently as part of a wake-up routine. The device100can generate sounds at varying volumes and emit light of varying colors and brightness during, before, and after both the wake-up routine and the wind-down routine.

The device100can comprise an outer housing102, a front panel108coupled to a front side200of the outer housing102, and a rear cover112coupled to a rear side210of the outer housing102. The device100can also comprise a front textile106partially covering or otherwise coupled to the front panel108and a rear textile110partially covering or otherwise coupled to the rear cover112.

The outer housing102can be shaped substantially as a partial spherical segment, a truncated bowl, or a partial frustoconical body. The device100can also comprise a substantially flat housing bottom144coupled to a base of the outer housing102. The outer housing102can also be shaped substantially as a partial conic, a partial cylinder, a partial dome, or a combination thereof.

The flat housing bottom144can allow the device100to be placed on a substantially flat surface such as a tabletop, countertop, shelf, or nightstand top. The housing bottom144can comprise or be covered by one or more feet146comprising a friction pad or friction inducing surface or surface feature to prevent the device100from sliding off a placement surface or being inadvertently moved by a user. The feet146can be made of or can comprise rubber, synthetic rubber, a polymer having a high friction coefficient, or a combination thereof. The feet146can be substantially flat and shaped as an elongate oval (e.g., peanut-shaped), a circle, a rectangle, a rhombus, or a combination thereof. As seen inFIG.2B, feet146can slightly raise the outer housing102from a platform.

The outer housing102can comprise a curved top104with multiple openings166or apertures defined along the curved top104. The openings166or apertures can allow a user of the device100to access (e.g., apply a user input to) physical buttons that can be actuated to control the functionality of the device100.

The device100can comprise a rest button148and a rise button150. The rest button148and the rise button150can nest in or otherwise protrude through the openings166or apertures defined along the curved top104of the outer housing102.

The rest button148can be concave with respect to an exterior surface of the outer housing102surrounding the rest button148. The rest button148can be physically pressed when a user is ready to initiate a sleep-related program (e.g., a wind-down program). The rise button150can be convex with respect to an exterior surface of the outer housing102surrounding the rise button150. The rise button150can be physically pressed when the user is ready to initiate another sleep-related program (e.g., a wake-up program). As will be discussed in more detail in later sections, the user can set the sleep-related program to control the lights and sounds emitted from the device100.

Alternatively, the rest button148can be convex and the rise button150can be concave.

Also, the user can control the sleep-related program from a client device502(seeFIG.5) such as a smartphone, a tablet, a laptop, a smartwatch, a personal entertainment device, or a combination thereof.

In some variations, the rest button148and/or the rise button150(or additional buttons of the device100) can also comprise one or more capacitive touch components or sensors.

The device100can also comprise a toggle switch152. The outer housing102can comprise a toggle opening154or aperture along a lateral side of the outer housing102to allow the toggle switch152to be accessed by a user of the device100.

The toggle switch152can be used to disable and enable an alarm program stored in a memory unit of the device100. The toggle switch152can comprise a circular button that can move back and forth in the toggle opening154. Part of the toggle switch152can be colored to indicate to the user when the alarm is enabled or disabled.

Any one of the outer housing102, the rear cover112, and the housing bottom144can be made in part of or comprise a polymeric material. For example, any one of the outer housing102, the rear cover112, and the housing bottom144can be made in part of or comprise acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polycarbonate (PC), polypropylene (PP), one or more acrylics, a combination or composite thereof, or any such combination with a polymeric material.

Any one of the outer housing102, the rear cover112, and the housing bottom144can be made in part of a metallic material, a thermoplastic, a ceramic, or a combination thereof. For example, any one of the outer housing102, the rear cover112, and the housing bottom144can be manufactured as one molded piece of ABS plastic. In some variations, a portion of the outer housing102can be made of an organic material such as wood or bamboo.

The device100can also comprise a battery164. The battery164can be coupled to housing bottom144. The battery164can be powered via a power supply port214on the battery, which is accessible through outer housing102, as seen inFIG.2C.

The outer housing102can also be used to house, contain, or store a portable power supply such as one or more portable batteries. The batteries can include rechargeable batteries, one-time use batteries, or a combination thereof. For example, the batteries can include multiple C size batteries or multiple AA size batteries. The batteries can be alkaline batteries, lithium-ion batteries, nickel cadmium batteries, or nickel metal hydride batteries. The batteries can be positioned within a space in the main speaker housing140.

The front panel108can be fastened, adhered, or otherwise coupled to the front side200of the outer housing102. The rear cover112can be fastened, adhered, or otherwise coupled to the rear side210of the outer housing102.

As will be discussed in more detail in later sections, at least part of the rear cover112can be defined by holes or openings arranged in a clustered circular pattern that allow that part of the rear cover112to function as a rear speaker grill158.

The front panel108can be made in part of or can comprise a polymeric material. For example, the front panel108can be made in part of poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), or polycarbonate (PC).

As will be discussed in more detail in later sections, at least parts of the front panel108can be defined by holes or openings arranged in clustered circular patterns that allow those parts of the front panel108to function as front speaker grills300.

Moreover, as seen inFIG.3A, at least part of the front panel108can be defined by holes or openings302arranged in a clustered rectangular pattern that allow that part of the front panel108to act as a clock display204.

Referring back to the front textile106and the rear textile110, the front textile106can be wrapped partially around the front panel108and the rear textile110can be wrapped partially around the rear cover112. For example, the front textile106can be wrapped around an outer edge of the front panel108. Also, for example, the rear textile110can be wrapped around an outer edge of the rear cover112.

Each of the front textile106and the rear textile110can be a piece of woven fabric comprising warp threads running vertically and weft threads running horizontally, as seen with respect to the x-y axis inFIG.2B. The warp threads can be undyed, and the weft threads can be dyed.

For example, each of the front textile106and the rear textile110can be a piece of natural linen where the warp threads of the linen are undyed and the weft threads of the linen are dyed.

Alternatively, the front textile106and the rear textile110can be made out of other materials such as synthetic fabrics, cotton, other fabrics, a combination thereof, or a combination of such materials and natural linen derived from flax.

The warp threads can be a set of threads running vertically and serving as the foundation of the textile. The weft threads can be a set of threads running horizontally. The weft threads can be woven to be substantially perpendicular to the warp threads, creating a crisscross pattern to the textile. The warp threads can be undyed, and the weft threads can be dyed. This pattern can allow the textile (e.g., the front textile106) to create a dimming effect or dim the light that is emitted through the textile.

In some variations, the warp threads can be dyed and the weft threads can be undyed.

Each of the front textile106and the rear textile110can be covered by a polymeric coating. For example, each of the front textile106and the rear textile110can be covered by a dynamic silicone coating.

One technical problem faced by the applicant is how to design a sleep training device100(e.g., a combination sunrise alarm, nightlight, wind-down clock, alarm clock, and sound-emitting device) that is aesthetically-pleasing in a bedroom environment and that does not look like an obtrusive piece of high-tech equipment. One technical solution discovered and developed by the applicant is to cover a front and a rear of the sleep training device100with the specially-designed textiles as disclosed herein. The textiles add visual appeal to the sleep training device100, making the device100look almost rustic and allows the device100to blend into a bedroom environment. Moreover, the specially-designed textiles as disclosed herein also function to dim and soften the light emitted from within the interior of the device100.

In other variations, in lieu of the front textile106and/or the rear textile110, the front and rear of the device100can be covered by polymeric components that allow light to shine through.

The front panel108can also have a screen-printed layer118coating or otherwise covering a front-facing surface and edges of the front panel108. The screen-printed layer118can create a feathered or blurry gradient to diffuse light transmitted through the front panel108. The screen-printed layer118can soften or dim light generated by lights (e.g., LEDs) within the interior of the device100.

The screen-printed layer118can be printed or adhered onto the front-facing surface and the edges of the front panel108. The screen-printed layer118can also provide the added functionality of protecting the edges of the front panel108from inadvertently damaging the front textile106. The screen-printed layer118can be first applied to the front-facing surface and the edges of the front panel108and set via ultraviolet light.

The device100can also comprise a capacitive touch component120. The capacitive touch component120can be located at the front side200of the outer housing102behind the front panel108. The capacitive touch component120can match a shape or a design of a lower portion of the front panel108. The capacitive touch component120can be electrically coupled to a processor of the device100.

In other variations, the capacitive touch component120can be adhered to at least part of the front panel108. In other variations, the capacitive touch component120can comprise at least part of the front panel108.

The capacitive touch component120can also be located under the outer housing102at the curved top104of the device100for the purpose of displaying the time when the user taps the curved top104of the device100.

The capacitive touch component120can be activated by a user touching part of the front textile106. Upon activation of the capacitive touch component120, a user can control a brightness and a volume of the device100, as described further herein with respect toFIG.2B.

A user can also physically contact or touch the capacitive touch component120through the front textile106and the front panel108to power on the device100or show the clock display204(as seen inFIG.2B). In addition, a user can also cycle through one or more preset settings of light and/or sound by continuously touching or making physical contact with the capacitive touch component120through the front textile106and the front panel108.

The capacitive touch component120can be made of or comprise a metallic material, a semiconductor material, or a combination thereof. For example, the capacitive touch component120can be made of or can comprise stainless steel.

The device100can also comprise a plurality of clock light-emitting diodes (LEDs)122. The clock LEDs122can be positioned facing the front of the device100, behind the front panel108. The clock LEDs122can comprise a grid of 21×7 individual LEDs in a rectangular pattern. Alternatively, the clock LEDs122can comprise a grid of about 10-100 LEDs across about 5-50 LEDs.

The clock LEDs122can be configured to emit light through the front textile106and the front panel108to display time to the user via a clock display204, as seen inFIG.2B. The clock LEDs122can also display patterns such as a moon and stars or a sun to indicate to the user whether a wind-down routine or a wake-up routine is in progress.

The device can also comprise an internal lower front portion126. The internal lower front portion126can comprise speaker receptacles306for insertion of one or more front speakers128(as seen inFIG.3A). The internal lower front portion126can comprise clock LED openings302between the speaker receptacles306through which the clock LEDs122can be viewed by a user.

The internal lower front portion126can be placed in front of clock LEDs122. The internal lower front portion126can be placed behind the capacitive touch component120and the front panel108.

The internal lower front portion126can be made in part of or comprise a polymeric material, a metallic material, or a combination thereof. For example, the internal lower front portion126can be made in part of or comprise acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polycarbonate (PC), polypropylene (PP), one or more acrylics including opal acrylic, or any such combination with a metallic material.

The device can also comprise a clock LED board124. The clock LEDs122can be placed on, affixed, or otherwise coupled to the clock LED board124. The clock LED board124can be shaped and sized to accommodate the clock LEDs122. The clock LED board124can be coupled to the internal lower front portion126.

The device100can also comprise a light dimming film130. The light dimming film130can be placed over the clock LED openings302of internal lower front portion126. The light dimming film130can soften the light emitted from the clock LEDs122. For example, the light dimming film130can be tinted with a substantially yellow color. The light dimming film130can be made of semi-translucent plastic such as an acrylic (e.g., an opal acrylic).

Alternatively, the light dimming film130can be made of in part of or comprise another type of polymeric material. For example, the light dimming film130can be made in part of or comprise polypropylene (PP), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polycarbonate (PC), a combination thereof, or any such combination with an acrylic.

The device100can also comprise one or more main LEDs132. The main LEDs132can be placed on a main LED board134positioned rearward of the internal lower front portion126. The main LEDs132, in aggregate, can be arranged in a trapezoidal pattern, a rectangular pattern, a rhombus-shaped pattern, a triangular pattern, a ring-like pattern, or an oval pattern on the main LED board134.

Although only a one-level or single-layer arrangement of main LEDs132is shown inFIG.1, it is contemplated by this disclosure that multiple layers or levels of main LEDs132can be stacked on top of one another. The main LEDs132can also be arranged such that each LED132is separated from its adjacent neighboring LED132by a space or gap. The main LEDs132can face vertically upward.

Both the main LEDs132and the clock LEDs122can include one or more red-green-blue-white (RGBW) LEDs. The main LEDs132and the clock LEDs122can also include one or more active-matrix organic light-emitting diodes (AMOLED), a super AMOLEDs, or a combination thereof.

The device100can also comprise a main LED dimmer136. The main LED dimmer136can be positioned vertically over the main LED board134. The main LEDs132can emit light that passes through the main LED dimmer136. The main LED dimmer136can be configured to diffuse or soften light generated by the main LEDs132before light reaches the front side200of the device100. Accordingly, the main LED dimmer136can be shaped to cover an entirety of the main LED board134.

The main LED dimmer136can be made of clear plastic. The main LED dimmer136can also be made of or comprise a polymeric material configured to dissipate heat generated by the main LEDs132. For example, the main LED dimmer136can be made of or comprise ABS, polycarbonate, a combination thereof, or any such combination with a polymeric material.

The main LED dimmer136can also comprise or can be defined by one or more surface features or textures configured to diffuse light generated by the main LEDs132. The main LED dimmer136can also be covered by one or more coatings configured to diffuse light or dissipate heat generated by the main LEDs132.

The device100can also comprise an internal reflector138. The internal reflector138can be positioned behind or rearward of the front panel108. The internal reflector138can comprise a compound curve shape that is concave towards the front side of the device100. The compound curve shape of the internal reflector138can direct light generated by the main LEDs132to the front side of the device100. As such, light generated by the main LEDs132can shine through the front panel108and the front textile106when a sleep-related program is initiated.

The front panel108can be coupled to an edge of the internal reflector138such that the front panel108nests partially within the internal reflector138. As will be further described with respect toFIGS.4A and4B, the internal reflector can comprise features such as shelves to accommodate the main LED dimmer136and the main LED board134.

One technical problem faced by the applicants is how to design the device100such that the light emitted from the main LEDs132is dimmed for the user so as to not disturb their sleep. One technical solution discovered and developed by the applicants is the set up disclosed herein where the main LED dimmer136diffuses light before the internal reflector138directs light generated by the main LEDs132toward the front textile106. The front textile106can also be manufactured to diffuse or dim the light in order to dim or control the light experienced by the user.

The device100can also comprise a main speaker housing140and a main speaker142. The main speaker housing140can be configured to couple to part of the main speaker142. The main speaker housing140can be sized to fit within outer housing102. The main speaker housing140along with the internal reflector138and the main speaker142can create a sealed sound environment to control the sound produced by the main speaker142.

The main speaker housing140can be substantially shaped as a partial spherical segment, a truncated bowl, or a partial frustoconical body.

In one variation, the main speaker housing140can be detachable or separable from the outer housing102. In other variations, the main speaker housing140can be affixed to the outer housing102by adhesives, fasteners, a threaded connection, or a combination thereof.

The main speaker housing140can be made in part of or comprise a polymeric material, a metallic material, or a combination thereof. For example, the main speaker housing140can be made in part of or comprise acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polycarbonate (PC), polypropylene (PP), one or more acrylics, a combination or composite thereof, or any such combination with a metallic material.

The main speaker142can be controlled by one or more electronic components of the device100. In addition to supporting the main speaker142, the main speaker housing140and/or the outer housing102can also house or function as a container for one or more electrical components such as wires, circuits, conductors, interfaces, circuit boards, power supply components, or a combination thereof. The electrical components can connect a processor or another circuit or chip on the PCB156A to the main speaker142, the capacitive touch component120, or a combination thereof.

The main speaker142can have a cone160that faces rearward and a pole piece162that faces forward. The main speaker142can be positioned rearward of the internal reflector138and can face the rear side210of the outer housing102. The main speaker142can emit sound toward the rear side210of the outer housing and through rear speaker grill158of rear cover112and the rear textile110. The rear cover112(including the rear speaker grill158) and the rear textile110can muffle or soften the sound emitted by the main speaker142.

One technical problem faced by the applicants is how to configure the device100to control the sound emitted so as not to disturb the user during sleep. One technical solution discovered and developed by the applicants is the configuration disclosed herein where the main speaker142faces the rear of the device100and the main speaker housing140, the main speaker142, and the internal reflector138create a sealed sound environment to control and enhance the sound produced by the main speaker142. Moreover, the main speaker142faces the rear of the device100such that the sound is partially muffled or softened by the rear cover112and the rear textile110such that the sound emitted is jarring when heard by a sleeping or dozing user.

The device can also comprise one or more printed circuit boards (PCBs)156A and156B. The one or more PCBs156A or PCBs156B can each comprise one or more chips, modules, integrated circuits (ICs), sensors, interfaces, and high-speed buses, or a combination thereof. The one or more PCBs156A or PCBs156B can be housed within the outer housing102.

The PCB156A can function to control main speaker142. PCB156A can be located between the main speaker housing140and the internal reflector138. The PCB156A can be shaped as a semicircular arch to fit within main speaker housing140. The PCB156A can be adhered to or coupled to main speaker housing140. Alternatively, or additionally, PCB156A can be adhered to or coupled to main speaker142.

The PCB156A and main speaker142can be coupled to one another or to the interior of the outer housing102by fasteners, screws, thread connections, interference fit, clips, clasps, adhesives, heat staking, thermoplastic staking via laser welding or ultrasonic welding, or a combination thereof. For example, PCB156A, the main speaker142, main speaker housing140, internal reflector138, or a combination thereof can be coupled to polymeric studs, posts, ribs, bosses, or any combination thereof protruding from an interior surface of a part of the outer housing102through holes or slots on any of the boards via staking or an interference fit.

The PCB156B can function to control the main LEDs132and the clock LEDs122. The PCB156B can be located between the internal reflector138and the housing bottom144and under the main LED board134. The main LED board134can be elevated from the PCB156B such that the LED board134and the main LEDs132are separated from the electrical components on the PCB156B by a gap or distance. The PCB156B can be shaped so as to rest on the housing bottom144.

The PCB156B and the housing bottom144can be coupled to one another or to the interior of the outer housing102by fasteners, screws, thread connections, interference fit, clips, clasps, adhesives, heat staking, thermoplastic staking via laser welding or ultrasonic welding, or a combination thereof. For example, the PCB156B, the main LED board134, the housing bottom144, the internal reflector138, or a combination thereof can be coupled to polymeric studs, posts, ribs, bosses, or any combination thereof protruding from an interior surface of a part of the outer housing102through holes or slots on any of the boards via staking or an interference fit.

FIG.2Aillustrates a perspective view of an example of the sleep training device100. The outer housing102can comprise a front side200comprising a front edge202, as seen inFIG.2A, and a rear side210, as seen inFIG.2C. The front side200of the outer housing102can be at least partially covered by the front textile106. The front textile106can serve as a front face of the sleep training device100.

The front textile106can be recessed from the front edge202or set slightly behind (or rearward of) the front edge202of the outer housing102. The front edge202of the outer housing102can also partially shield the front textile106from damage during transport or otherwise regular use.

The rest button148can be concave with respect to an exterior surface of the curved top104of the outer housing102surrounding the rest button148. The rest button148can be physically pressed when a user is ready to initiate a sleep-related program (e.g., a wind-down program).

The rise button150can be convex with respect to an exterior surface of the curved top104of the outer housing102surrounding the rise button150. The rise button150can be physically pressed when the user is ready to initiate another sleep-related program (e.g., a wake-up program).

FIG.2Billustrates a front view of the sleep training device100. The device100can have a clock display204made up of a plurality of clock LEDs122. The clock LEDs122can shine or emit light through the front textile106such that the clock display204is visible to the user through the front textile106.

The clock display204can be positioned toward the bottom of the front side200of the outer housing102. The clock display204can be connected to a real-time clock integrated circuit (IC) of the device100.

Alternatively, the clock display204can also display symbols such as a moon and stars or a sun to indicate to the user whether a wind-down routine or a wake-up routine is in progress.

The device100can also comprise touch-enabled brightness control switches206and touch-enabled volume control switches208. The brightness control switches206and the volume control switches208can be activated via the capacitive touch component120behind the front textile106and the front panel108.

The brightness control switches206can be located above and below the clock display204on the front side200of the device100. To increase the brightness of the device100during use, the user can physically contact or touch above the clock display204. To decrease the brightness of the device100during use, the user can physically contact or touch below the clock display204.

The volume control switches208can be located at lateral sides of the clock display204on the front side200of the device100. To increase the volume of the device100during use, the user can physically contact or touch one side of the clock display204(i.e., to the right of the clock display204inFIG.2B). To decrease the volume of the device100during use, the user can physically contact or touch another side of the clock display204(i.e., to the left of the clock display204inFIG.2B).

FIG.2Cillustrates a rear view of the sleep training device100. The rear side210of the outer housing102can be at least partially covered by the rear textile110. The rear side210of the outer housing102can comprise a rear edge212.

The rear textile110can be recessed from the rear edge212or set slightly behind (or forward of) the rear edge212of the outer housing102. The rear edge212of the outer housing102can also partially shield the rear textile110from damage during transport or otherwise regular use.

The device100can also comprise a power supply port214for receiving a charging cable. The charging cable can be plugged into the power supply port214to charge the battery164. The power supply port214can be accessed through openings or cutouts defined along the outer housing102, the rear textile110, and the rear cover112. The power supply port214can include a universal serial bus (USB) port such as a micro-USB, a mini-USB port, or a USB-C port. The power supply port214can also be a coaxial barrel receptacle for receiving a coaxial barrel connector. For example, the power supply port214can receive a connector of a universal alternating current (AC) adapter.

Alternatively, or in addition to the battery164, the device100can have an inductive charge receiver housed within the outer housing102for receiving wireless power.

FIG.2Dillustrates another front view of the sleep training device100. This view further shows the threads of the front textile106comprising warp threads running vertically and weft threads running horizontally. As shown inFIG.2D, the warp threads can be undyed and the weft threads can be dyed. Threads can run horizontally and vertically with respect to the x-axis and the y-axis. The front textile106(along with the rear textile110) adds visual appeal to the sleep training device100. The front textile106(along with the rear textile110) can also make the device100look almost rustic and allow the device100to blend into a bedroom environment. Moreover, the specially-designed front textile106can also function to dim and soften the light emitted by the main LEDs132from within the interior of the device100.

FIG.2Eis a black-and-white image showing a front view of an example of the sleep training device100while illuminated. When the device100is illuminated via the main LEDs132, the front textile106along with the front panel108and the screen-printed layer118can display a “sunrise” or “sunset” gradient along the front side200of the device100. The screen-printed layer118can provide a feathered look to the device100when the device100is illuminated from within. This can reduce the harshness of the light and make the light emitted by the device100seem warmer. The screen-printed layer118can also create a transition region207along the front side200of the device100when the device100is illuminated from within. As shown inFIG.2E, the transition region207can be a substantially horizontal region or horizontal band along the front side200of the device100where the light appears to dissolve or become blurry. In this manner, the device100, when illuminated from within, appears to mimic the sun at sunset or sunrise.

One technical problem faced by the applicant is how to design the sleep training device100such that the device100displays a gentle light that imitates a sunrise or a sunset. One technical solution discovered and developed by the applicants is to provide a screen-printed layer118disposed over the front panel108to provide a blurred effect representing a sunrise or a sunset. The blurred effect is a gradual transition and can provide a gentle look to the front side200of the device100. The blurred and feathery effects can be seen with any color emitted by the main LEDs132.

FIG.3Aillustrates a front view of the front panel108of the sleep training device100. The front panel108can comprise one or more front speaker grills300and one or more LED openings302. Front speaker grills300can be positioned on either side of the LED openings302. Each of the front speaker grills300can be comprised of multiple individual openings.

The front panel108can have a front panel edge304that can be configured to couple to the outer housing102. The front textile106can also wrap around the front panel108such that at least a part of the front textile106nests between the front panel108and the outer housing102.

The front panel108can comprise a plurality of LED openings302toward the bottom of the front panel108. The plurality of LED openings302can be collectively arranged in a rectangular-shaped pattern.

The plurality of LED openings302can also be collectively arranged in a circular-shaped pattern, an oval-shaped pattern, a triangular-shaped pattern, a rhombus-shaped pattern, or a combination thereof.

FIG.3Billustrates a front view of the internal lower front portion126of the sleep training device. The internal lower front portion126can have one or more speaker receptacles306. The one or more speaker receptacles306can serve as housing(s) for the front speakers128.

The one or more speaker receptacles306can be positioned on either lateral side of the internal lower front portion126.

FIG.3Cillustrates a front view of the rear cover112of the sleep training device100. The rear cover112can comprise a rear speaker grill158. The rear speaker grill158can be positioned substantially in a center of the rear cover112. The rear speaker grill158can serve as a screen or cover for the main speaker142. The rear speaker grill158can be comprised of a plurality of holes or openings arranged in clustered circular pattern.

Alternatively, the rear speaker grill158can be comprised of a plurality of holes or openings arranged in a substantially rectangular pattern, triangular pattern, or oval pattern.

The rear cover112can be made in part of or comprise a polymeric material. For example, the rear cover112can be made in part of poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), or polycarbonate (PC).

The rear cover112can also comprise snap fittings308. The snap fittings308can be used to latch the rear cover112onto the outer housing102. The snap fittings308can comprise a ledge to snap onto the rear side210of the outer housing102.

The rear textile110can be wrapped at least partially around the rear cover112. The rear textile110can wrap around the rear cover112such that at least a part of the rear textile110is disposed between the rear cover112and the outer housing102.

The rear cover112can also comprise a rear cover edge310. The rear cover edge310can be positioned towards a bottom of the rear cover112. The rear cover edge310can be positioned slightly under and touching the outer housing102such that the rear cover112couples with the outer housing102. The outer housing102can rest on the rear cover edge310.

FIG.4Aillustrates a front view of the internal reflector138of the sleep training device100. The internal reflector138can comprise a ridge400. The ridge400can extend at least partially along a front-facing side of the internal reflector138. The front panel108of the device100(not shown inFIG.4A) can snap into the ridge400in order to rest within the internal reflector138when assembled.

The internal reflector138can also comprise a shelf402on either side of the internal reflector138. The shelf402can hold the main LED board134carrying the main LEDs132such that the main LEDs132face vertically upward. The main LED dimmer136can be positioned over the main LED board134and can be shaped to fit within the internal reflector138on top of the shelf402.

The main LED dimmer136and the main LED board134can also be coupled to the internal reflector138via fasteners, screws, thread connections, or a combination thereof.

FIG.4Billustrates a front perspective view of the internal reflector138of the sleep training device100. The internal reflector138can comprise a curved back139. The curved back139of the internal reflector138can be substantially shaped as a compound curve. The curved back139of the internal reflector138can be configured to reflect and direct light generated by the main LEDs132toward the front panel108such that light generated by the plurality of main LEDs132shines through the front panel108and the front textile106when a sleep-related program is initiated.

One technical problem faced by the applicant is how to design the sleep training device100such that light generated by the main LEDs132reach the user in way that softens and dims the light but still allows enough light to reach the user to wake up the user when a wake-up program is initiated. One technical solution discovered and developed by the applicant is to design the device100with the internal reflector138disclosed herein having a curved back139substantially shaped as a compound curve. The curved back139reflects and directs the light generated or emitted by the main LEDs132(positioned vertically upward) toward the front panel108and the front textile110. In this manner, the light emitted by the device100that reaches the user appears warm and mimics sunlight shining through curtains of a window.

Referring back toFIG.1, the device100can comprise one or more processors coupled to the PCB156A and/or the PCB156B. The one or more processors can comprise a communication unit processor, a system processor, or a combination thereof. The communication unit processor can be part of a communication chip along with a communication unit memory and a real time clock IC. The real time clock IC can be used by the processors to keep track of time when a user initiates a timer function through the application on the client device502(seeFIG.5) or sets a time-specific sleep-related program.

The communication chip can be part of a communication module coupled to the PCB156A and/or156B. The communication unit processor can also be coupled to an antenna.

For example, the communication module can be a Bluetooth® module and the communication chip can be a Bluetooth® communication chip and the antenna can be a Bluetooth® antenna. As a more specific example, the Bluetooth® communication chip can be a Nordic® nRF51822 Bluetooth® low energy (BLE) chip and the communication unit processor can be a 32-bit ARM® Cortex®-MO processor.

In other instances, the communication module can be a WiFi module, the communication chip can be a WiFi chip, and the antenna can be a WiFi antenna. The device100can have both a Bluetooth® module or chip and a WiFi module or chip. References to a processor or processors in this disclosure can include references to the communication unit processor, the system processor, or a combination thereof.

The system processor can refer to one or more CPUs, GPUs, ASICs, FPGAs, or a combination thereof. The system processor can execute software stored in one or more memory units of the device100to execute the methods described herein.

The system processor can be implemented in a number of different manners, for example, the system processor can be an embedded processor, a processor core, a microprocessor, a logic circuit, a hardware FSM, a DSP, or a combination thereof. As a more specific example, the system processor can be a 32-bit processor such as an ARM™ processor.

The one or more memory units can store software, data, logs, or a combination thereof. In one variation, the one or more memory units can comprise an internal memory. In another variation, the one or more memory units can comprise an external storage unit. The one or more memory units can refer to a volatile memory or a non-volatile memory. For example, the one or more memory units can be a nonvolatile storage such as NVRAM, Flash memory, disk storage, or a volatile storage such as SRAM. The one or more memory units can be the main storage units for the device100.

The system processor can be electrically coupled to the one or more memory units. The one or more memory units can store sleep-related programs created by a user of the device100using a client device502(seeFIG.5). The one or more memory units can also store music or sounds to be played by the main speaker142and/or the front speakers128of the device100. The one or more memory units can comprise a non-volatile computer storage medium such as an electronically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM). The one or more memory units can also comprise a flash memory and at least 16 MB of storage.

The system processor can also be electrically coupled to one or more amplifiers coupled to main speaker142and/or front speakers128. The amplifiers can be used to adjust a volume of main speaker142and/or front speakers128.

The system processor can be electrically coupled to a microphone for detecting sounds emanating from a room. For example, a user can run the application and listen to sounds coming from the room.

In some instances, the system processor can also be electrically coupled to a Bluetooth® audio interface to allow a user to transmit sounds or audio wirelessly from the client device502to be broadcast by the main speaker142and/or front speakers128of the device100.

The system processor can also be coupled to the main LEDs132via a LED power control. The LED power control can be electrically coupled to the main LED board134or to part of PCB156B.

FIG.5illustrates a client device502that can be used to control the sleep training device100. The client device502can be in wireless communication directly with the device100through a short-range wireless communication protocol. The short-range wireless communication protocol can be a Bluetooth® protocol (such as a Bluetooth® Low Energy (BLE) protocol). The short-range wireless communication protocol can also be a ZigBee® protocol, a near-field communication (NFC) protocol, or any combination thereof.

The client device502can be a portable computing device such as a smartphone, a tablet, a laptop, a smartwatch, a personal entertainment device, a desktop computer, a workstation, another server, or a combination thereof. The client device502can have a client processor which can include one or more CPUs, GPUs, ASICs, FPGAs, or a combination thereof. The client processor can execute software stored in the client memory to execute the methods described herein. The client processor can be implemented in a number of different manners, for example, the client processor can be an embedded processor, a processor core, a microprocessor, a logic circuit, a hardware FSM, a DSP, or a combination thereof. As a more specific example, the client processor can be a 32-bit processor such as an ARM™ processor.

The client memory can store software, data, logs, or a combination thereof. In one variation, the client memory can be an internal memory. In another variation, the client memory can be an external storage unit. The client memory can be a volatile memory or a non-volatile memory. For example, the client memory can be a nonvolatile storage such as NVRAM, Flash memory, disk storage, or a volatile storage such as SRAM. The client memory can be the main storage unit for the client device.

The communication unit can be a wired or wireless communication interface. For example, the communication unit can be a network interface card of the client device. The communication unit can be a wireless modem or a wired modem. In one variation, the communication unit can be a WiFi modem. In other variations, the communication unit can be a 3G modem, a 4G modem, an LTE modem, a Bluetooth® component, a radio receiver, an antenna, or a combination thereof. The client device can connect to or communicatively couple with a WLAN, a wide area network, or a combination thereof using the communication unit. The client device can transmit or receive packets or messages using the communication unit.

The client device502can also have a display. The display can be a liquid crystal display (LCD) touchscreen, a lighting-emitting diode (LED) touchscreen, an active-matrix organic light-emitting diode (AMOLED) touchscreen, a super AMOLED touchscreen, or a combination thereof. In certain variations, the display can be a retina display, a haptic touchscreen, or a combination thereof. For example, when the client device is a smartphone, the display can be the touchscreen display of the smartphone.

Although not shown in the figures, it is contemplated by this disclosure that the client device502can be a standalone console or hub having a console processor, a console memory, a console communication unit, and a console display. The console or hub can be a dedicated wireless communication device for wirelessly connecting the device100with the client device502.

The client device502can also be in wireless communication with the device100through a server and one or more networks. The networks can include any multi-hop network or wide area network (WAN) that covers regions, countries, continents, or a combination thereof. Examples of the networks can include a cellular network such as a 3G network, a 4G network or a long-term evolution (LTE) network, a satellite network; a sonic communication network; the Internet; or a combination thereof. The networks can include a number of wireless local area networks (WLANs). The WLANs can include networks established under the IEEE's 802.11 protocol or a successor thereof. For example, the WLANs can include a number of wireless-fidelity (WiFi) networks.

The server can have a processing unit, a memory unit, and a server communication unit. The processing unit can be coupled to the memory unit and the server communication unit through high-speed buses.

The sleep training device100and the client device502can also be part of a sleep training system.

Alternatively, the sleep training system can also comprise the sleep training device100, the client device502, and a voice-enabled assistance device. The voice-enabled assistance device can comprise an Amazon Echo™ device, an Amazon Echo Dot™, an Amazon Echo Spot™ device, an Amazon Echo Show™ device, a Google Home™ device, a Google Home Mini™ device, a Google Home Max™ device, or another smart home controller or hub device.

The sleep training device100, the client device502, and the voice-enabled assistance device can be communicatively coupled to a wireless local area network (WLAN) set up by a wireless gateway or wireless router. The sleep training device100, the client device502, and the voice-enabled assistance device can connect to another network (e.g., a WAN such as the Internet) via the wireless gateway or wireless router.

As previously mentioned, the client device502can also connect directly to the sleep training device100via a short-range wireless communication protocol (e.g., Bluetooth® or BLE).

The voice-enabled assistance device can communicate with a voice-enabled assistance server via the network. The voice-enabled assistance device can detect a voice command from a user to have the sleep training device undertake an action. For example, the action can include activating or deactivating the sleep training device; adjusting a volume level of sounds generated by the main speaker142and/or front speakers128of the sleep training device100; playing, pausing, or resuming a track or sound stored in the memory of the sleep training device100or streamed by the sleep training device100; initiating or stopping a timer function of the sleeping training device100; adjusting a brightness or luminous intensity of light generated by the main LEDs132; adjusting the color(s) of the light generated by the main LEDs132; enabling or initiating a lock function, downloading multimedia content from the server or another device; downloading software updates from the server or another device; or a combination thereof.

The voice-enabled assistance device can parse the voice command and transmit the parsed voice command to the voice-enabled assistance server. The voice-enabled assistance server can process the parsed voice command based on stored rules and automation processes stored in one or more databases accessible to the voice-enabled assistance server. The voice-enabled assistance server can then transmit a corresponding instruction or command directly to the sleep training device100or to the server via one or more application programming interfaces (APIs) and the server can then transmit the instruction or command to the sleep training device100.

The processing unit can include one or more CPUs, graphical processing units (GPUs), Application-Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or a combination thereof. The processing unit can execute software stored in the memory unit to execute the methods described herein. The processing unit can be implemented in a number of different manners. For example, the processing unit can be an embedded processor, a processor core, a microprocessor, a logic circuit, a hardware finite state machine (FSM), a digital signal processor (DSP), or a combination thereof. As a more specific example, the processing unit can be a 64-bit processor.

The memory unit can store software, data, logs, or a combination thereof. The memory unit can be an internal memory. Alternatively, the memory unit can be an external memory, such as a memory residing on a storage node, a cloud server, or a storage server. The memory unit can be a volatile memory or a non-volatile memory. For example, the memory unit can be a nonvolatile storage such as non-volatile random-access memory (NVRAM), Flash memory, disk storage, or a volatile storage such as static random-access memory (SRAM). The memory unit can be the main storage unit for the server.

The server communication unit can include one or more wired or wireless communication interfaces. For example, the server communication unit can be a network interface card of the server. The server communication unit can be a wireless modem or a wired modem. In one variation, the server communication unit can be a WiFi modem. In other variations, the server communication unit can be a 3G modem, a 4G modem, an LTE modem, a Bluetooth® component, a Bluetooth® Low Energy (BLE) component, a radio receiver, an antenna, or a combination thereof. The server can connect to or communicatively couple with a WLAN, a wide area network, or a combination thereof using the server communication unit. The server can transmit or receive data packets or messages using the server communication unit.

FIG.5illustrates an example graphical user interface of an application running on a client device502configured to control the sleep training device100. Specifically, a rest GUI500can be rendered by the client device502to wirelessly and remotely control the device100. The rest GUI500can be shown on a display of the client device502when a user opens or runs the application on the client device502.

The rest GUI500can comprise a back button504. The back button504can direct the user to a home page where they may access additional devices or add additional devices.

The rest GUI500can comprise a messages button506. The messages button506can direct the user to a messages page where they may view various help messages, updates, or promotions regarding the device100.

The rest GUI500can comprise a settings button508. The settings button508can direct the user to options to view details regarding the device100such as firmware. The settings button508can also be used to direct the user to settings to auto-connect their client device502to the sleep training device100upon opening of the application.

The settings button508can also direct the user to view or change their personal account information. The settings button508can also provide links to help or support for the device100.

The rest GUI500can comprise an alarm label510, an alarm sound button512, and an add alarm button514. The alarm label510can indicate a name of the corresponding alarm (e.g., “SUNRISE ALARM”). There can be one or more alarms set at a time.

The alarm sound button512can comprise a name and image of the sound to be played upon activation of the alarm. The alarm sound button512can comprise a button to play the corresponding sound indefinitely such that the user can activate or deactivate the sound as desired. When the user presses the alarm sound button512, the device100can emit sound via the main speaker142and the front speakers128. The alarm sound button512can also direct the user to edit or delete the alarm.

The add alarm button514can direct the user to add and save an additional alarm. The user can choose the sound (or no sound), the light, the duration, and the volume of the alarm. The duration of the alarm can be set as a predetermined time period. Alternatively, or in addition, the alarm can be turned off by the user tapping the device100. The user can also preview the alarm on the device100before saving the alarm as desired.

The rest GUI500can comprise a sound and light menu516. The sound and light menu516can direct the user to the sound and light GUI800, as seen inFIG.8and as discussed further below.

The rest GUI500can comprise a GUI rest button518, a GUI library button520, and a GUI rise button522. The GUI rest button518can direct the user to the rest GUI500as seen inFIG.5. The GUI library button520can direct the user to the library GUI as seen inFIGS.6A and6Band as discussed further below. The GUI rise button can direct the user to the rise GUI1000as seen inFIGS.10A and10Band as discussed further below.

The rest GUI500and other GUIs can be rendered through an application written or coded using the Objective-C programming language, the Swift™ programming language, or a combination thereof. The application can also be written using the Java™ programming language, the Python™ programming language, the Objective-C programming language, or a C programming language.

FIGS.6A and6Billustrate a library GUI600of an application running on a client device502configured to set the alarm features of the sleep training device100. The library GUI600can be displayed after the user provides input to the GUI library button520.

As seen inFIG.6A, the library GUI600can comprise a sound tab602. The sound tab602can allow the user to select sounds applicable to a certain status of the device100.

The user can choose from the status options604: unwind, sleep, and wake. The unwind option can feature sounds that can provide the user to prepare for sleep with relaxing sounds, sleep stories, guided rest programs, or a combination thereof. The sleep option can comprise soothing sounds that can help the user sleep through the night. The wake option can provide affirmations, breathing exercises, and relaxing sounds or a combination thereof as the user wakes up.

The user can also choose from a library of sound options606desired for the corresponding status of the device100. The sound options606can include a nature sound, a falling rain sound, a static white-noise sound, a bird chirp sound, a wind-blowing sound, an ocean wave sound, a babbling brook sound, a laundry machine sound, one or more pre-recorded tunes (e.g., a pre-recorded lullaby), or a combination thereof. The sound options606can be displayed or presented to a user through a number of sound selection buttons. Each of the sound selection buttons can have a graphic specially designed to associate a particular sound option606with the particular sound selection button.

The sound tab602can also present or display a mute button configured to instruct the device100to stop generating any type of sounds.

The application can provide a download option to download additional sounds or tunes to supplement or update the currently stored sounds or tunes. The additional sounds or tunes can be downloaded via WiFi (that is, received over WiFi from the server) or directly from the client device502via Bluetooth®. The additional sounds or tunes can be stored in the memory, on a memory card (e.g., a Secure Digital (SD) card) within the memory card slot, or a combination thereof. The additional sounds or tunes can also be downloaded into the memory from a memory card inserted into the memory card slot. The sound tab602can also be updated such that each new sound or tune has an associated sound selection button. The application can also provide a streaming option to stream new sounds via WiFi.

As seen inFIG.6B, the library GUI600can comprise a light tab608. The light tab608can allow the user to select lights emitted from the main LEDs132of the device100. The user can choose from several color options610to instantly change the lights emitted by the main LEDs132. Alternatively, the light of the device100can be programmed to display certain colors and/or brightness at desired times during the day.

The light tab608can present the user with a variety of color options610for changing the colors of the lights generated by the main LEDs132. For example, the light tab608can give the user an option of selecting a substantially white light, red light, orange light, yellow light, green light, baby blue light, dark blue light, purple light, pink light, or a combination thereof.

FIGS.7A and7Billustrate an alarm GUI700of an application running on the client device502configured to control the alarm of the sleep training device100.FIG.7Aillustrates that the application can render an alarm GUI700to set the alarm of the device100. The alarm GUI700can present the user with a time menu702and a days menu704. The user can select the desired time for a specific alarm via the time menu702. The user can select the desired days for a specific alarm via the days menu704. The user can repeat these functions for multiple alarms.

After a user selects a desired amount of time by saving the alarm via the save alarm button706, the alarm GUI700can display the alarm sounds options menu708. The user can choose from multiple sound options that can play from the device100at the selected time and date of the alarm. Once satisfied, the user can choose the desired sound via the select button710.

Alternatively, the alarm GUI700can allow a user to set or schedule one or more sleep-related program. The sleep-related program can dictate when and for how long the device100automatically generates one or more lights or sounds. The sleep-related program can be scheduled based on a number of set parameters including a program start time, a program end time or duration, a program frequency or start dates, or a combination thereof.

The application can display a number of sleep-related program simultaneously. Each of the sleep-related program can be saved or stored in a client memory of the client device502, a memory unit of the device100, in one or more databases accessible to the one or more servers, or a combination thereof. A user can schedule or enable any of the previously stored or saved sleep-related program using toggle buttons displayed on the rest GUI500. The client device502can transmit or send the sleep-related program set by the user to the device100via the server through WiFi, via a short-range wireless communication protocol, or a combination thereof. The sleep-related program can be stored in the memory of the device100when received by the device100. The device100can initiate a sleep-related program when one or more set parameters (e.g., a program start time, a start date, etc.) associated with the sleep-related program are met.

The application can also display or render the alarm GUI700when a user applies an input to the add alarm button514.

FIG.8illustrates a sound and light GUI800of an application running on a client device502configured to control the sounds and colors of the sleep training device100. The sound and light GUI800can be displayed when the user provides input to the sound and light menu516.

The sound and light GUI800can provide a volume control slider802and a brightness control slider804. The volume control slider802can be used to remotely control the volume level of sounds generated by the main speaker142and the front speakers128. The processor can instruct the amplifier to adjust the volume level of sounds produced by the main speaker142and the front speakers128in response to the user input applied to the volume control slider802. The volume level of sounds generated by the main speaker142and the front speakers128can also be controlled by a user manually pressing one or more volume control switches208on the device100.

The sound and light GUI800can also be used to adjust the volume of the sound as well as turn the sound off as desired. Accordingly, the device100can be used or function as a remote-controlled nightlight when a user places the device100in a room and runs the application on the client device502in order to select a lighting color from another room.

As described above, a user can also manually turn on the main LEDs132by touching the top of the outer housing102and adjusting the brightness of the main LEDs132by touching the one or more brightness control switches206on the front of the device100.

The brightness control slider804can be used to remotely control a brightness or luminous intensity of the light generated by the main LEDs132. The processor can instruct an LED power control to adjust the brightness or luminous intensity of the light in response to a user input applied to the brightness control slider804.

As described above, a user can also manually control the brightness of the device by touching one or more brightness control switches206on the front of the device100.

The sound and light GUI can also comprise a backward button806, a play button808, and a forward button810. These buttons can be used to cycle through sounds playing from the device100. The user can remotely cycle or reset a sound via backward button806. The user can stop or play a sound via play button808. The user can skip to a subsequent sound set in a sleep-related program via forward button810.

FIG.9illustrates a clock and display GUI900of an application running on a client device502configured to control the clock display204of the sleep training device100. The clock and display GUI900can be accessible via the settings button508.

The clock and display GUI900can comprise a clock display feature902. The clock display feature902can allow the user to turn the time display of the device100on or off. The clock display feature902can also allow the user to enable the user to tap the device100to activate the capacitive touch component120to temporarily display the time. The time can be displayed for about five seconds to fifteen seconds.

Alternatively, a 24-hour time feature904can be provided such that the time on the device can be displayed indefinitely upon activation.

The clock and display GUI900can comprise daytime brightness control slider906and nighttime brightness control slider908. Daytime brightness control slider906can allow the user to control how bright the display of the clock is during the daytime. Nighttime brightness control slider908can allow the user to control how bright the display of the clock is during the nighttime. The brightness control sliders906,908can also feature a percentage number to give a numerical indicator to the user regarding how bright the setting is.

FIGS.10A and10Billustrate a rise GUI1000of an application running on a client device502configured to control the set alarms of the sleep training device100. The rise GUI1000can be displayed after the user provides a user input to the GUI rise button522.

The rise GUI1000can display an alarm status1002for the one or more alarms set by the user. The alarm status1002can show the time and the days that the alarm has been set to alert the user via lights and/or sounds. The alarm can be disabled by the user via input on a slider1004on the rise GUI1000. Alternatively, or in combination, the physical toggle switch152on the device100can be activated to disable the alarm. Additional alarms can be added via the add alarm button514.

The sleep-related program can comprise one or more wind-down programs and wake-up programs. The wind-down programs can comprise instructions for the device100to generate light of a certain color from the LEDs for a specific period of time with or without sound. The wind-down programs can comprise instructions for the device100to generate or emit sound with or without lights. The wind-down program can be activated by pressing the rest button148.

The user can select different stages of the wind-down program via the various GUIs above. The rest button148can be pressed again to transition the device100to the next stages of the wind-down program. The user can also hold rest button148to stop the wind-down program.

The wind-down program can comprise sounds and lights that remind a user of nighttime. Examples of lights can include custom configurations of lights that are dimmed to the user's desires. Examples of sounds can include white or pink noise, rain, wind, ocean sounds, fan sounds.

The wake-up program can include one or more instructions for device100to generate light of a certain color from the LEDs for a specific period of time with or without sound. The wake-up program can comprise instructions for the device100to generate or emit sound with or without lights. The wake-up program can be activated by pressing the rise button150.

The user can select different stages of the wake-up program via the various GUIs above. The rise button150can be pressed again to transition the device100to the next stages of the wake-up program. The user can also hold rise button150to stop the wake-up program.

The wake-up program can comprise sounds and lights that remind a user of the morning. Examples of lights can include custom configurations of lights akin to sunrises, lighthouses, and dawn lights. Examples of sounds can include flutes, morning birds, or bells and alarms.

In addition to the wind-down program and the wake-up program, a user can set or schedule a naptime program, a bedtime program, an audio alarm program, a visual alarm program, or a combination thereof.

One technical problem faced by the applicant is how to design a sleep-related program to allow a user options for customizing both wind-down and wake-up routines. One technical solution discovered and developed by the applicant is to develop, in combination with the previously discussed physical features of the device, an application that allows a user to easily customize several stages of their routine. Therefore, a user does not have to worry about configuring a complicated GUI when setting an alarm. For example, the user can conveniently tap the rest button148or the rise button150after setting such sleep-related programs have been previously set via the client device502. The sleep-related programs can promote good health by training the user to maintain a regular sleep routine that improves the user's general well-being.

A number of embodiments have been described. Nevertheless, it will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that various changes and modifications can be made to this disclosure without departing from the spirit and scope of the embodiments. Elements of systems, devices, apparatus, and methods shown with any embodiment are exemplary for the specific embodiment and can be used in combination or otherwise on other embodiments within this disclosure. For example, the steps of any methods depicted in the figures or described in this disclosure do not require the particular order or sequential order shown or described to achieve the desired results. In addition, other steps or operations may be provided, or steps or operations may be eliminated or omitted from the described methods or processes to achieve the desired results. Moreover, any components or parts of any apparatus or systems described in this disclosure or depicted in the figures may be removed, eliminated, or omitted to achieve the desired results. In addition, certain components or parts of the systems, devices, or apparatus shown or described herein have been omitted for the sake of succinctness and clarity.

Accordingly, other embodiments are within the scope of the following claims and the specification and/or drawings may be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense.

Each of the individual variations or embodiments described and illustrated herein has discrete components and features which may be readily separated from or combined with the features of any of the other variations or embodiments. Modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation, material, composition of matter, process, process act(s) or step(s) to the objective(s), spirit, or scope of the present invention.

Methods recited herein may be carried out in any order of the recited events that is logically possible, as well as the recited order of events. Moreover, additional steps or operations may be provided or steps or operations may be eliminated to achieve the desired result.

Furthermore, where a range of values is provided, every intervening value between the upper and lower limit of that range and any other stated or intervening value in that stated range is encompassed within the invention. Also, any optional feature of the inventive variations described may be set forth and claimed independently, or in combination with any one or more of the features described herein. For example, a description of a range from 1 to 5 should be considered to have disclosed subranges such as from 1 to 3, from 1 to 4, from 2 to 4, from 2 to 5, from 3 to 5, etc. as well as individual numbers within that range, for example 1.5, 2.5, etc. and any whole or partial increments therebetween.

All existing subject matter mentioned herein (e.g., publications, patents, patent applications) is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety except insofar as the subject matter may conflict with that of the present invention (in which case what is present herein shall prevail). The referenced items are provided solely for their disclosure prior to the filing date of the present application. Nothing herein is to be construed as an admission that the present invention is not entitled to antedate such material by virtue of prior invention.

Reference to a singular item, includes the possibility that there are plural of the same items present. More specifically, as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” “said” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. It is further noted that the claims may be drafted to exclude any optional element. As such, this statement is intended to serve as antecedent basis for use of such exclusive terminology as “solely,” “only” and the like in connection with the recitation of claim elements, or use of a “negative” limitation. Unless defined otherwise, 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 invention belongs.

Reference to the phrase “at least one of”, when such phrase modifies a plurality of items or components (or an enumerated list of items or components) means any combination of one or more of those items or components. For example, the phrase “at least one of A, B, and C” means: (i) A; (ii) B; (iii) C; (iv) A. B, and C; (v) A and B; (vi) B and C; or (vii) A and C.

In understanding the scope of the present disclosure, the term “comprising” and its derivatives, as used herein, are intended to be open-ended terms that specify the presence of the stated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and/or steps, but do not exclude the presence of other unstated features, elements, components, groups, integers and/or steps. The foregoing also applies to words having similar meanings such as the terms, “including”, “having” and their derivatives. Also, the terms “part,” “section,” “portion,” “member” “element,” or “component” when used in the singular can have the dual meaning of a single part or a plurality of parts. As used herein, the following directional terms “forward, rearward, above, downward, vertical, horizontal, below, transverse, laterally, and vertically” as well as any other similar directional terms refer to those positions of a device or piece of equipment or those directions of the device or piece of equipment being translated or moved.

Finally, terms of degree such as “substantially”, “about” and “approximately” as used herein mean the specified value or the specified value and a reasonable amount of deviation from the specified value (e.g., a deviation of up to +0.1%, +1%, +5%, or +10%, as such variations are appropriate) such that the end result is not significantly or materially changed. For example, “about 1.0 cm” can be interpreted to mean “1.0 cm” or between “0.9 cm and 1.1 cm.” When terms of degree such as “about” or “approximately” are used to refer to numbers or values that are part of a range, the term can be used to modify both the minimum and maximum numbers or values.

It will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the various methods disclosed herein may be embodied in a non-transitory readable medium, machine-readable medium, and/or a machine accessible medium comprising instructions compatible, readable, and/or executable by a processor or server processor of a machine, device, or computing device. The structures and modules in the figures may be shown as distinct and communicating with only a few specific structures and not others. The structures may be merged with each other, may perform overlapping functions, and may communicate with other structures not shown to be connected in the figures. Accordingly, the specification and/or drawings may be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense.

This disclosure is not intended to be limited to the scope of the particular forms set forth, but is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents of the variations or embodiments described herein. Further, the scope of the disclosure fully encompasses other variations or embodiments that may become obvious to those skilled in the art in view of this disclosure.