Patent ID: 12188631

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Certain illustrative embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings. In general, such embodiments relate to a combination lamp comprising at least two different sets of light sources, wherein each set of light sources can be activated independently from the other sets of light sources.

Referring toFIGS.1-8, certain embodiments of a combination lamp10,30can comprise a first lamp100,300and a second lamp200,400in a fixed relationship with each other. See, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 8,052,313, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. Whereas combination lamp10shown inFIGS.1-4comprises a generally round shape and combination lamp30shown inFIGS.5-8comprises a generally oval shape, it is to be understood that a combination lamp constructed in accordance with the invention can take on any shape as a matter specific to an application or a matter of design choice.

As shown, first lamp100,300can have a plurality of LEDs101,301mounted on a first support102,302, preferably covered by a first lens103,303. Second lamp200,400can comprise a plurality of LEDs201,401mounted on a second support202,402, preferably covered by a second lens203,403. First lamp100,300and second lamp200,400can be constructed and arranged to be selectively removable from or permanently fixed to each other, as a matter specific to an application or a matter of design choice. Preferably, first support102,302connects to second support202,402to secure the first lamp100,300and second lamp200,400together. Additionally, second support202,402preferably includes a mounting element210,410for mounting second lamp200,400and preferably combination lamp10,30onto a surface, such as on a vehicle.

Referring toFIGS.1-4, in accordance with certain uses of embodiments of the invention, such as outdoor use, especially on vehicles, it may be preferable for first support102to be permanently fixed to second support202, to provide security. In accordance with various embodiments of the invention, second lamp200can be directly mounted on a surface, such as a vehicle body, and first lamp100can be connected to second lamp200, which can maintain first lamp100in place. Certain illustrative embodiments include a second lamp200that comprises a flange for mounting on the rear of a vehicle. Second lamp200can thus be secured to the vehicle, and first lamp100can be connected to second lamp200by way of non-limiting example, by being inserted into a receiving aperture in second lamp200. In accordance with certain illustrative embodiments of the invention, first lamp100can be inserted into the receiving aperture of second lamp200until it snaps into place, after which first lamp100cannot be removed.

Alternatively, referring toFIG.2by way of non-limiting example, it may be desirable for first lamp100to be separable from second lamp200. Such removability can facilitate quick and easy replacement of lamps100or parts thereof. For example, one can remove first lamp100from second lamp200, replace the necessary LEDs, fix the circuitry, replace the lens, etc., whatever service is desired, then put first lamp100back in place. Alternatively, a replacement lamp can be put in place while first lamp100is serviced. Whereas first lamp100has been described as being inserted into and removed from second lamp200, it is to be understood that second lamp200can be inserted into or removed from first lamp100, without deviating from the scope of the invention.

The use of LEDs has been increasing recently, which may be partially because they can have an operating life of up to 100,000 hours before degradation commences. Therefore, an LED typically has greater operating life than a standard high-intensity incandescent bulb, which has a relatively short life span and is susceptible to damage. Furthermore, LEDs are commonly smaller in size than light bulbs, and provide more flexibility in positioning. Therefore, it can be preferable for combination lamp10to comprise LEDs in both lamps100,200. When used on a vehicle, the illumination provided by the LEDs preferably meets the appropriate DOT (Department of Transportation) standards. For example, if combination lamp10includes an amber LED lamp as first lamp100and is to be used on the front of a vehicle, the amber LED lamp preferably meets the full turn compliance standards. Preferably, second lamp200meets the DRL (Daytime Running Light) standards, which would permit it to be used as a DRL lamp, which the DOT has encouraged as enhancing safety by elevating the visibility and noticeability of moving vehicles. Second lamp200need not meet the DRL standards, however, if it is being used for other purposes, such as for a decorative use.

Depending on the desired use of combination lamp10, the number and positioning of LEDs per lamp100,200can be varied. For example, whereasFIGS.2and6show certain embodiments of combination lamp10,30wherein first lamp100,300has nine LEDs and second lamp200,400has eighteen LEDs, it is to be understood that the number of LEDs in each lamp can vary as a matter specific to an application or a matter of design choice.

In accordance with the embodiments shown inFIGS.3and7, first lamp100,300comprises a plurality of projections104,304on first lens103,303located above LEDs101,301. These projections104,304are preferably constructed and arranged to disperse light emitted from the LED below it, for example, by changing the direction of the emitted light. See, e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,009,364 and 8,717,679, which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety. WhereasFIGS.3and7show second lamp200,400without projections, it is to be understood that second lamp200,400can also include projections, which can be similar or different from projections104,304of first lamp100,300. Combination lamp10,30can have any combination of lamps having projections, and first lamp100,300and second lamp200,400can have any number of projections without deviating from the scope of the invention.

In accordance with various embodiments of the invention, as illustrated inFIG.8, each lamp300,400may have its own power connection31,32, such as a plug, outlet, or any mechanism for connecting to a power source. Power connections31,32can either connect to the same or separate power sources. Accordingly, each lamp300,400can be turned on or off or otherwise controlled independently of the another. For example, if combination lamp30as shown inFIGS.5-8is used on a vehicle, wherein first lamp300is a stop/tail/turn lamp and second lamp400is a back-up lamp, first lamp300will light up when the driver of the vehicle signals or stops, while second lamp400can remain off. On the other hand, when the driver backs up, first lamp300can remain off while second lamp400is lit. Alternatively, first lamp300can be a back-up lamp and second lamp400could be a stop/tail/turn lamp without deviating from the scope of the invention.

When used in a vehicle, it can be preferable for each first lamp300and second lamp400to be connected to the power source via separate cables. For example, the vehicles can have two cords for each lamp aperture or mount on which a combination lamp can be mounted. However, it is possible for one cord to be provided for each aperture/mount, wherein the power from each cord is split with a splitter or similar component, ends of the splitter being connected to one of the first connection of first lamp300or the second connection of second lamp400. This is particularly suitable for vehicles that were built to house only one lamp in each aperture/mount.

One potential benefit in using a combination lamp in accordance with embodiments of the invention with vehicles (e.g., work trucks produced for use in industries such as, but not limited to, cable, plumbing, electrical, etc.) is that more light can be provided. For example, because the combination lamp10,30occupies only one aperture/mount that one conventional stop/tail/turn or back-up lamp would occupy on the rear of the vehicle, one aperture/mount becomes free. One possible use of the freed aperture/mount is to mount an additional combination lamp, thus providing a total of four stop/tail/turn lamps and four back-up lamps (see, e.g.,FIGS.9and10) while occupying the same space as two of each of the conventional lamps. Therefore, the illumination provided for each action of braking, signaling to turn, backing-up, etc. can be doubled. Alternatively, a conventional stop/tail/turn lamp or back-up lamp (or other type lamp, such as a warning lamp or work lamp) may be mounted in combination with combination lamp10,30thus providing extra illumination for specific actions.

Furthermore, combination lamp10,30is preferably not significantly larger than a conventional stop/tail/turn or back-up lamp. For example, a conventional lamp for a vehicle, particularly trucks, is commonly mounted on a separate, dedicated mounting flange which is then mounted on the vehicle. Alternatively, a separate, dedicated mounting flange can be mounted first onto a vehicle, and a lamp can be subsequently mounted thereon. Another embodiment provides a lamp that is integrally formed with a dedicated mounting flange which is mounted on the vehicle. Thus, in accordance with the conventional lamps, both a lamp and a dedicated mounting flange structure are required. According to various embodiments of the present invention, the flange used for mounting can comprise one of the lamp components of a combination lamp. For example, referring toFIG.2, second lamp200can comprise a flange which is mounted on the vehicle. Therefore, no substantive structure is being added in such an embodiment (the second lamp200occupying approximately the same space as the dedicated mounting flange used with a conventional lamp), and the space can be maximized.

In accordance with embodiments of the invention as shown inFIGS.1-8, a combination lamp10,30preferably includes at least two sets of light sources, one of which surrounds the other. As shown, second lamp200,400surrounds the perimeter of first lamp100,300. Such an arrangement can be particularly beneficial for use as a vehicle stop/tail/turn-back-up combination lamp (see alsoFIGS.13-16described further below) or a DRL-amber combination lamp, thus maintaining the shape of the illumination consistent with standard stop/tail/turn, back-up, or amber lamps, and more particularly, when applicable, maintaining the flange-lamp arrangement consistent with conventional flanges and lamps.

First lamp100,300and second lamp200,400of a combination lamp10,30in accordance with embodiments of the invention that are not mounted on a vehicle can also be connected to a common power source via a splitter or separate cords. Alternatively, first lamp100,300and second lamp200,400can be connected to different power sources entirely. Furthermore, second lamp200,400need not surround first lamp100,300, but may be positioned side-by-side, intertwined, create a design with, etc., without deviating from the scope of the invention, as a matter specific to an application or a matter of design choice.

Another potential use of embodiments of the invention includes hallways, staircases, and the like, where it can be preferable to provide more than one type of illumination. For example, a dim light can remain on constantly, whereas a bright light can be turned on and off. In accordance with certain illustrative embodiments, second lamp200,400can provide a low, dim light, such as a night light, and have a light sensor and only turns on when there is insufficient light present in the area. The first lamp100,300, in contrast, can provide brighter illumination, but is configured to be turned on and off by a user. By providing a combination lamp, the same area can be used for two different types and sources of light.

Combination LED lamps according to embodiments of the present invention can comprise various shapes and sizes, and further can be utilized at a variety of locations for a variety of functions without deviating from the scope of the invention, as a matter specific to an application or a matter of design choice. Additionally, other alterations can be made, such as, but not limited to, varying the number of LEDs, altering the transparency of the lenses, the shape and size of the supports, number, shape and/or size of the projections, etc. as a matter specific to an application or a matter of design choice, without deviating from the scope of the invention.

In various embodiments of the present invention, a combination lamp10,30may be provided that has an appearance substantially as shown inFIGS.1-8, but wherein the LEDs201,401in the flange are higher output LEDs (e.g., higher power, higher luminosity compared to standard LEDs), and a more intense illumination thereof can provide a separate, third lamp function. When LEDs201,401are embodied as higher output LEDs, for example, they can provide a work lamp function as well as a back-up lamp function. The higher output LEDs can be initiated and energized by a set of wires connected to a dedicated switch (on/off). When the switch is in an “off” position, LEDs201,401may function as a back-up lamp providing typical back-up illumination as described above. When the switch is in an “on” position, the higher output may be engaged, and LEDs201,401may function as work lamp providing brighter illumination in the back of the vehicle. In some embodiments, higher output LEDs201,401may be mounted on an aluminum PCB, for example, to accommodate the increased amount of heat produced.

In various other embodiments of the present invention, a combination lamp10,30may be provided that utilizes different colors for different functions in the flange. With reference toFIGS.11and12, for example, in various embodiments, a combination lamp10,30may be provided which incorporates an emergency warning lamp800,900into the flange.FIG.11shows an exploded view of an illustrative round combination lamp10with multiple functions, andFIG.12shows a top plan view of an illustrative oval combination lamp30with multiple functions. The combination lamp ofFIG.11is similar to the combination lamp shown inFIGS.1-4, and the combination lamp ofFIG.12is similar to the combination lamp shown inFIGS.5-8; however, a combination lamp10,30as shown inFIGS.11,12combines at least three different lamp components in a unitary configuration, and is configured such that a first portion of the LEDs of the flange comprise LEDs201,401with one function (e.g., back-up lighting) while a second portion of the LEDs of the flange comprise LEDs801,901with a separate function (and/or color) (e.g., a dedicated warning lamp function). LEDs801,901may be a different color (e.g., amber) from LEDs201,401(e.g., white), distinguishable through a clear lens203,403. The LEDs101,301in the center area provide a third function (e.g., stop/tail/turn). LEDs101,301may be white, covered by a colored (e.g., red) lens, or may be colored (e.g., red) LEDs covered by either a clear or colored (e.g., red) lens. The embodiments of combination lamp10,30shownFIGS.11and12are illustrated with eight LEDs801and six LEDs901, respectively, but different numbers and/or positions of LEDs801,901on the flange can be used for the second function of the flange as a matter specific to an application or a matter of design choice. See alsoFIGS.21-30described further below.

The warning lamp800,900may be initiated and energized by a separate (dedicated) set of wires connected to a dedicated switch (on/off). When the warning lamp800,900is in use and the user decides to put the vehicle in back-up, brake (stop), or turn mode, a built-in circuit can automatically cut off the warning function, so that the intense illumination of the warning flashes does not negate the visibility of the lamp200,400used for the back-up function and/or the lamp100,300used for the stop/tail/turn function. In some embodiments, the amber (or other color) warning light is configured to flash unless the user chooses to install a switch to employ a steady illumination. In various embodiments, a separate set of wires can initiate the warning function. In some embodiments, where two or more combination lamps incorporating warning lamps are provided, an auxiliary wire can alternate between the different warning lamps. For example, when the auxiliary wire is connected, a user can sync the flashing of two or more warning lamps so that they flash simultaneously, alternately, have different patterns of flashing, etc.

In various embodiments, a combination lamp10,30may be provided which has an appearance substantially as inFIGS.11,12, but also incorporates a work lamp into the flange, thus providing four functions (e.g., stop/turn/tail, back-up, warning lamp, and work lamp). For example, the LEDs201,401of the flange used for the back-up function may be high output LEDs, which can be initiated and energized by a set of wires connected to a dedicated switch (on/off). In these embodiments, when the switch is off, LEDs201,401can provide a standard back-up function as described above; and when the switch is turned on, LEDs201,401can provide more intense lighting (e.g., for working on the side of the road). Warning LEDs801,901have separate dedicated wiring connected to a dedicated switch as described above.

FIGS.13-16show top plan, side elevational, and exploded views and an electrical diagram of an illustrative combination lamp according to various embodiments of the invention. Dimensions marked are in mm. This combination lamp10embodiment (Maxxima M85417R) is a 5.5″ round hybrid combination stop turn tail and back-up light, comprising a 4″ round red stop turn tail (S/T/T) lamp100and 5.5″ back-up (BU) flange200having 12 red LEDs101and nine white LEDs201, respectively, mounted on support502(PCB) with back cover/housing505and neoprene gasket506with holes511attached. Lens103covering LEDs101may be colored (e.g., red) and may include projections104as described above. Lens203covering LEDs201may be clear and may include projections204as described above and holes205for mounting. Lens103and lens203may be secured to or integrally formed with one another. The combination lamp ofFIGS.13-16may include mounting screws507(seeFIG.21) and screw caps (mounting screw covers)508, and has a thin profile, sealed moisture proof electronics, and polycarbonate lens and housing components. Plastic screw caps/covers/inserts508can be pressed onto the screw holes511after the combination lamp10is installed on the vehicle, and can make the combination lamp10tamper resistant. In some embodiments, screw caps508are configured such that they cannot be removed once they are installed. In some embodiments, the combination lamp ofFIGS.13-16may be provided as a kit, including two female PL3 connectors509. In illustrative embodiments, the specifications for the combination lamp ofFIGS.13-16are as follows: LEDs—21 (12 Red, 9 White); Voltage—12.8 VDC; Amp Draw—BU 0.2 A, Tail 20 mA, Stop 0.2 A; Dimensions—5.5″ Diameter×0.5″ Depth; Mounting—3-Hole Flange Mount (3) 3/16″ holes, Hole cutouts: 1 3/16″ for cable exit; Connector—(2) PL3 Female, 10″ Wire; DOT/SAE—J593, J2040, J2261.

FIGS.17-20show top plan, side elevational, and exploded views and an electrical diagram of another illustrative combination lamp according to various embodiments of the invention. Dimensions marked are in mm. This combination lamp10embodiment (Maxxima M85437R-WL) is a 5.5″ round hybrid combination stop turn tail and back-up and work light, comprising a 4″ round red stop turn tail (S/T/T) lamp100and 5.5″ back-up (BU) flange200having 12 red LEDs101and nine white LEDs201, respectively, mounted on support502(PCB) with back cover/housing505and neoprene gasket506with holes511attached, where LEDs201are embodied as higher output LEDs as described above. Lens103covering LEDs101may be colored (e.g., red) and may include projections104as described above. Lens203covering the higher output LEDs201may be clear and may include projections204as described above and holes205for mounting. Lens103and lens203may be secured to or integrally formed with one another. The combination lamp ofFIGS.17-20may include mounting screws507(seeFIG.21) and screw caps (mounting screw covers)508, and has a thin profile, sealed moisture proof electronics, and polycarbonate lens and housing components. Plastic screw caps/covers/inserts508can be pressed onto the screw holes511after the combination lamp10is installed on the vehicle, and can make the combination lamp10tamper resistant. In some embodiments, screw caps508are configured such that they cannot be removed once they are installed. Connector leads510(e.g., five blunt cut wires) may be color coded, for example, as follows: red (stop/turn), brown (tail), blue (back-up), black (ground), white (work light). In illustrative embodiments, the specifications for the combination lamp ofFIGS.17-20are as follows: LEDs—21 (12 Red, 9 White); Voltage—12.8 VDC; Amp Draw—BU 0.2 A, Tail 20 mA, Stop 0.2 A, WL 1.0 A; Dimensions—5.5″ Diameter×0.5″ Depth; Mounting—3-Hole Flange Mount (3) 3/16″ holes, Hole cutouts: 1 3/16″ for cable exit; Connector—5 Leads Blunt Cut 10″; DOT/SAE—J593, J2040, J2261. The combination lamp ofFIGS.17-20incorporates a dual function flange back-up light and work light configured to provide, for example, 310 lumen back-up light/1,000 lumen work light (WL).

FIGS.21-26show front perspective, top plan, bottom plan, side elevational, and exploded views and an electrical diagram of another illustrative combination lamp according to various embodiments of the invention. Dimensions marked are in mm. This combination lamp10embodiment (Maxxima M85427R-YCL) is a 5.5″ round hybrid combination stop turn tail and back-up and flashing warning light (single color nine LED or dual color 18 LED), comprising a 4″ round red stop turn tail (S/T/T) lamp100having 12 red LEDs101, and a 5.5″ back-up (BU) flange200/800having nine white LEDs201(back-up and warning) and nine amber LEDs801(warning and turn), mounted on support502(PCB) with back cover/housing505and neoprene gasket506with holes511attached. As shown, the nine white LEDs201and nine amber LEDs801alternate one-by-one around the flange; however, in other embodiments, LEDs201,801may be provided in different numbers and/or arrangements/groupings around the flange (see, e.g.,FIGS.11,12). Lens103covering LEDs101may be colored (e.g., red) and may include projections104as described above. Lens203covering LEDs201,801may be clear and may have a substantially smooth exterior as shown (though alternative embodiments may include projections204as described above) and holes205for mounting. Lens103and lens203may be secured to or integrally formed with one another. The combination lamp ofFIGS.21-26may include mounting screws507and screw caps (mounting screw covers)508; has a thin profile, sealed moisture proof electronics, and polycarbonate lens and housing components; and is DOT FMVSS108/CMVSS1088 compliant. Plastic screw caps/covers/inserts508can be pressed onto the screw holes511after the combination lamp10is installed on the vehicle, and can make the combination lamp10tamper resistant. In some embodiments, screw caps508are configured such that they cannot be removed once they are installed. Connector leads510(e.g., seven blunt cut wires) may be color coded, for example, as follows: red (stop/turn), brown (tail), green (warning power), blue (back-up), black (ground), white (ALT/MODE2/turn), yellow (pattern change/SYNC). In illustrative embodiments, the specifications for the combination lamp ofFIGS.21-26are as follows: LEDs—30 (12 Red, 9 White, 9 Amber); Voltage—12.8 VDC; Amp Draw—0.6 A Max Amp (Stop+Warn), BU 0.2 A, Tail 20 mA, Stop 0.2 A, Amber Turn 100 mA, Warn 0.4 A; Dimensions—5.5″ Diameter×0.5″ Depth; Mounting—3-Hole Flange Mount (3) 3/16″ holes, Hole cutouts: 1 3/16″ for cable exit; Connector—7 Leads Blunt Cut 10″; DOT/SAE—J593, J2040, J2261, J595. The combination lamp ofFIGS.21-26provides an all-in-one S/T/T and Back-Up and Dual Color Amber White Flashing Warning (SAE J595 Class 1 Warning Device), which can flash amber only, white only, or amber/white dual color. An amber turn may be provided for trucks with a dedicated turn wire (4-wire S/T/T circuit; seeFIG.35).FIGS.27and28show the combination lamp ofFIGS.21-26with 12 red LEDs101providing tail light and stop light, respectively.FIG.29shows the combination lamp ofFIGS.21-26with nine white LEDs201providing back-up light.FIG.30shows the combination lamp ofFIGS.21-26with nine amber LEDs801providing flashing amber warning light. In various embodiments, LEDs101may also provide an optional red turn; LEDs201may also provide an optional flashing white warning; LEDs801may also provide an optional amber turn.FIG.33shows a schematic of the electrical diagram ofFIG.26, indicating sections for input/output power management, microcontroller, red lens section for red stop/tail/turn, white LEDs in outer circle section used for back-up and warning, and amber LEDs in outer circle section used for warning and amber turn.

In various embodiments, the wiring designations for the illustrative round hybrid combination S/T/T-BU-Warning lamp10ofFIGS.21-16may be, for example, as follows: black—ground (−); brown—tail (+VDC); blue—back-up (+VDC); red—stop and turn (+VDC); white—optional amber turn (+VDC), optional warning ‘Mode 2’ (−GND); green—flashing warning (+VDC); yellow—programming (+VDC), described in further detail below. In various embodiments, the wiring instructions may be as follows. First, determine if the vehicle has a dedicated turn signal wire or uses a common wire for both stop light and turn signal.FIG.34shows 3-Wire Stop/Turn/Tail wiring (red turn signal). If the vehicle uses a common wire for both stop light and turn signal, use the Red Turn Signal by connecting the Red Wire.FIG.35shows 4-Wire Stop/Turn/Tail wiring (amber turn signal). If the vehicle has dedicated Left and Right Turn Signal wires, independent of the Stop Light, use the optional Amber Turn Signal by connecting the White Wire. Then follow steps 1-7. Step 1—Connect Black wire to vehicle Ground (− Negative). Step 2—Connect Brown wire to vehicle Tail Light (+12V). Step 3—Connect Red wire to vehicle Stop Light (+12V). Step 4 (Optional)—Connect White wire to vehicle Left or Right Turn Signal (+12V). Step 5—Connect Blue wire to vehicle Back-up Light (+12V). Step 6—Connect Green wire “Flashing Warning Circuit” via a user-supplied switch (+12V). Step 7—Program Warning to the desired pattern with Yellow wire. While the Green wire is connected to +12V, Hold Yellow wire to +12V for 1 to 2 seconds to scroll to the next flash pattern (See Table 1). If on a Single-Color pattern, Hold Yellow wire for 3 to 5 sec to toggle to the alternate color (i.e. from Amber to White). To reset to Pattern #1, Hold Yellow wire to +12V for 7+ seconds.FIG.36shows 28 illustrative flash patterns; however, in other embodiments, different numbers and/or types of flash patterns may be provided. InFIG.36, an asterisk=no alternate function available, and superscript ‘1’=alternate between colors. Step 8—“Simultaneous Flash” or “Alternate Flash” may be selected.FIG.37shows warning wiring instructions for simultaneous flash.FIG.38shows warning wiring instructions for alternate flash (Group 1 will flash the set pattern alternatively with Group 2). To flash all lamps synchronously, join all yellow wires together. This allows the lights to communicate with each other. To use alternate or “wig-wag” flash, identify lamps in “Group 1” and “Group 2”; Connect White wires in “Group 1” to +12V. (In some embodiments, the Optional Amber Turn Signal may be disabled when the Flashing Warning light is on and/or activating the Back-up may disable the Warning light. In other embodiments, the combination lamp may be configured to enter a different Backup/Warning mode.) Step 9 (Optional)—To use the optional “Mode 2” Flashing Warning pattern, a DPDT (double-pole, double-throw) switch is needed. See the diagram inFIG.39. To access Secondary Mode, or second flash pattern, Connect Green to +12V and White to (−) Ground. While in Mode 2, use Yellow wire (+12V) to program the desired flash pattern (step 7). Mode 1: Leave the switch open and select first pattern. Mode 2: Close the switch and select second flash pattern. Users can toggle between the two selected flash patterns by changing the switch position. A DPDT switch is needed to use an alternate mode of operation in Primary Mode (Mode 1). Connect Group 2 separately to the other pole switch (common side). The switch other two side should be +12V (alt) and Ground (Mode 2). For single color patterns, connect Yellow wires to +12 VDC (Green wire) for 3 to 5 seconds to change the color.

While there have been shown and described fundamental novel features of the invention as applied to the preferred and illustrative embodiments thereof, it will be understood that omissions and substitutions and changes in the form and details of the disclosed invention may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the invention. Moreover, as is readily apparent, numerous modifications and changes may readily occur to those skilled in the art. For example, various features and structures of the different embodiments discussed herein may be combined and interchanged. Hence, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described and, accordingly, all suitable modification equivalents may be resorted to falling within the scope of the invention as claimed. It is the intention, therefore, to be limited only as indicated by the scope of the claims appended hereto.