Patent ID: 12197146

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Printers and copiers use containers, cartridges, bottles or similar devices (hereinafter “cartridge”) to hold, contain or house toner, developer or other marking powder. These cartridges are known to be in a bottle or cylindrical configuration or a box or substantially rectangular cartridge. In one example, a bottle, or generally cylindrical, shaped cartridge is used to contain powdered substances, such as toner or developer or the like (hereinafter “powder”). Such bottle-like cartridges have, in some examples, a cartridge interface coupled with a proximal, open end of the cartridge body. In an example, the proximal end with the cartridge interface is the end of the cartridge that is first inserted into the image forming apparatus.

In an example, the cartridge is a vessel configured to hold powder. The powder is then used in an image forming apparatus to facilitate forming copies or prints on paper, fabric or other similar media. The cartridge has at least one feature configured to allow the cartridge to dispense the powder contained therein. The feature of a cartridge for dispensing powder, for example, is configured to interact with a corresponding element of the image forming apparatus that receives the powder.

Cartridge interfaces can include features that can assist with coupling the cartridge body to the interior or working parts of a copy machine or image forming apparatus (hereinafter “image forming apparatus”). Cartridge interfaces can connect or couple the cartridge body along or at any suitable portion of the cartridge to a corresponding portion of the image forming apparatus. In other examples, cartridge interfaces can connect or couple the proximal or distal end of the cartridge to a corresponding portion of the image forming apparatus.

In some examples, cartridge interfaces connect or couple the cartridge body with powder dispense areas of the cartridge. Dispense areas include openings in at least a portion of the cartridge to release or exhaust powder into powder receiving areas at corresponding areas of the image forming apparatus. In some examples, the cartridge is connected or coupled proximate to the dispense area at or near corresponding areas of powder receiving areas of the image forming apparatus.

In an example of a cartridge with a cartridge interface proximate to the dispense area, at least a portion of the cartridge interface couples the cartridge to the powder receiving area so the cartridge is held, locked, or engaged in place with the powder receiving area. The cartridge interface can be proximate to the insertion end of the cartridge or at any other location as determined by its use.

In some embodiments, the cartridge interface has multiple purposes beyond holding, locking or engaging the cartridge body and for dispensing powder from the cartridge. For example, the cartridge interface includes a mechanism to assist with opening the powder dispense port of the cartridge. The cartridge interface, for example, also engages with components of the image forming apparatus to activate or deactivate operation of the cartridge, such as electronic components, gears, lockouts or other features that are used in operation of the cartridge.

In an example cartridge100, there is a cartridge body102. The cartridge100has a distal end104and a proximal end106. The proximal end106, for example, is an insertion end, or the end a user inserts first into an image forming apparatus (hereinafter the proximal end106will be referred to as the insertion end106). The hopper1000provides, for example, at least a portion of the support structure for the cartridge100when the cartridge100is inserted into the image forming apparatus. An example of a portion of a hopper1000of the image forming apparatus is illustrated inFIG.1as the portion that receives the insertion end106. A user, for example, advances or progresses the cartridge100into the hopper1000. The insertion end106couples with the hopper1000, for example, when the cartridge100is inserted into the image forming apparatus. In one example, the insertion end106is the portion of the cartridge100that provides the features to transfer powder from within the cartridge100to the image forming apparatus.

In an example of a cartridge interface110, as illustrated inFIGS.2A and2B, there is at least a cover112. The cover112is, for example, a cap or enclosure that protects mechanical features such as engagement features (as will be discussed further, below) of the insertion end106of the cartridge100. The cover112protects engagement features such as a dispense mechanism, a coupling mechanism, or other mechanical or electrical components from environmental conditions, shipping or storage damage, and mechanisms or electrical components of the image forming apparatus.

The cover112, in an example, includes elements or features that communicate with the image forming apparatus. The cover112includes areas or features that assist in engaging, holding or coupling communication elements or electronic elements on the cover112. In some embodiments the cartridge100includes a chip holder113, and the chip holder113retains a chip used in communicating with corresponding features in the image forming apparatus. The chip holder113is, for example, a fitting formed in or with the cover112that includes a recess for holding or retaining a computer chip. The chip holder113, in another example, is a protrusion, extension or addition formed or coupled with the cover112. The chip holder113is located at any position corresponding with a communication portion of the image forming apparatus. For example, the chip holder113is located at a proximal portion114aof the cover112. The chip holder113, in another example, is located on at least one longitudinally extending side114cof the cover112.

The cover112, in an example, also includes identification features115such as lockouts, protrusions, or recesses. Such identification features115are known to be formed with, such as by molding, the cover112. The identification features115are also known to be additions added to the cover112after molding or otherwise forming the cover112. The identification features115include, for example, lockouts that identify regions in that the cartridge100is designed for use. The identification features115also indicate, for example, the color of powder contained within the cartridge100. The identification features115, in another example, also otherwise identify the type of cartridge100or machine that the cartridge100is designated.

The cover112also includes engagement features, such as features117aor117b, to properly align the cartridge100in the machine. Engagement features117a,117binclude, for example, grooves, protrusions, indents, projections, recesses, pins, rails or other components that assist in aligning the cartridge100within the image forming apparatus. The engagement features117aand117balso includes grooves, protrusions, indents, projections, recesses, pins, rails or other components that, for example, assist in coupling or attaching the cover112to the cartridge100. For example, as illustrated inFIG.2B, cartridge-cover engagement features117care be positioned on or in the cover112at a position that assists the cover112being coupled or attached to the cartridge body102. In an example, the cartridge-cover engagement features117care formed or disposed on the cover112at a distal end114bof the cover112. In another example, the cartridge-cover engagement features117ccan be formed or disposed along lateral sides114c.

The cover112can protect any components internal of the cover112. The components internal of the cover112, as will be discussed below and illustrated inFIGS.3A and3B, are components or elements that are disposed external of the cartridge body102. For example, components internal of the cover112includes at least a dispense mechanism200. The dispense mechanism200includes, for example, dispense body220and a coupling mechanism210. The cover112, in an example, surrounds, encases, wraps around, envelops, or similarly contains at least a portion of the dispense body220and with coupling mechanism210. In another example, the cover112surrounds the dispense body220including the top221cand sides221a,221bof the dispense body220and the coupling mechanism210.

The dispense mechanism200includes a container side opening204configured to engage with the opening of the cartridge body102. In an example, the dispense body220couples with the container side opening204by snap-fit, screwing, interlocking elements, or the like. The dispense body220is closed with a front surface222, for example, to retain powder within the dispense body220during use.

The dispense body220includes a dispense opening230at a location, for example, different from the container side opening204. As illustrated inFIG.4, the dispense opening230is, for example, in a bottom surface224of the dispense body220and sized to correspond with a powder receiving area of the image forming apparatus once the cartridge100is installed. In an example, the bottom surface224is a separate feature from the dispense body220that is coupled to the dispense body220. In another example, the bottom surface224is a component of the dispense body220. The dispense opening230optionally includes a profile (e.g., shape, size or the like) that corresponds to the powder receiving area of the image forming apparatus. For example, the dispense opening230is in various examples rectangular, square, circular, oval, oblong, or any other suitable shape to permit communication with the powder receiving area. The dispense opening230extends at an angle (e.g., including but not limited to orthogonally or obliquely) with respect to the rotational axis150of the cartridge100through the bottom surface224and toward the dispense body220. In some examples, the dispense opening230extends from an outer surface223of the bottom surface224to a cavity226(seeFIG.2B) of the dispense body220. The cavity226receives powder from the cartridge body102. Referring again toFIG.4, the dispense opening230also includes, for example, a dispense port232that permits powder to pass from the cavity226of the cartridge100and into the image forming apparatus.

The dispense opening230and dispense port232are closed, for example, with a closing mechanism240, such as a shutter, door, or other similar device (hereinafter “shutter”). The shutter240is configured to engage with corresponding features in the image forming apparatus. For example, the shutter240engages with the image forming apparatus via shutter engagement elements241such as with protrusions, recesses, or the like. The shutter engagement elements241are, for example, on at least one side of the shutter240. Other locations of shutter engagement elements241are also contemplated, for example at a front or rear side of the shutter240. For example, when the shutter240is properly engaged with the image forming apparatus, the shutter240is moved to open the cartridge100and provide a path for powder to be dispensed from the cartridge100. In an example, the shutter240is moved longitudinally (e.g., in a similar direction to the length of the cartridge100). The shutter240, in another example, is rotated open or moves laterally with respect to the longitudinal direction of the cartridge100. The shutter240movement is guided, for example with engagement between the shutter engagement elements241and at least one shutter groove, guide, rail, channel, track or the like243(seeFIG.4). The shutter grooves243extend, for example, in the direction the shutter240travels during operation to open and close.

Referring now toFIGS.5A and5B, one example of a coupling mechanism210of the dispense body220(FIGS.3A,3B) is shown. In an example, the coupling mechanism210is a unitary molded or formed piece. In another example, the coupling mechanism210includes several pieces fit or assembled together.

In an example, the coupling mechanism210is removably coupled with the dispense body220. In another example, the coupling mechanism210is secured to the dispense body220. In such an example, the coupling mechanism210is coupled with the dispense body220with cooperation between shuttles242and244and grooves250aand250b. In another example, the coupling mechanism210is coupled along both sides221aand221bof the dispense body220, each coupling member side portion212a,212bis optionally identical, substantially similar or different in design. In the example shown inFIGS.3A and3B, the coupling mechanism210hugs, brackets, pinches, grasps the dispense body220(e.g., collectively, couples) with coupling member side portions212aand212b(e.g., legs, arms or the like extending from an intermediate portion of the coupling mechanism).

The coupling mechanism210, in an example, has a bridge216that extends across a portion of the dispense body220. In one example, the bridge216connects the coupling member side portions212aand212btogether. The bridge216extends over or across a portion, or all of, of the proximal end206of the coupling mechanism210. In another example, the bridge216extends over or across an area proximate to the proximal end206. As illustrated in the example shown in FIGS.3A and3B, the bridge216extends over or across an area proximate to the proximal end206.

As illustrated inFIGS.5A and5B, the bridge216includes an upper shuttle242configured for movable coupling with a corresponding feature of the dispense body220. In one example, the upper shuttle242includes a pin, rail or the like projecting transverse relative to rotational axis150of the cartridge100. The upper shuttle242extends laterally relative to the rotational axis150, for instance at an angle orthogonal or oblique to the rotational axis150. In another example, the upper shuttle242is housed within an upper cavity217aformed in a top, or upper, portion218of the bridge216. Optionally, a brace protrusion219in the upper cavity217aopposes the upper shuttle242. As discussed herein, the brace protrusion219(where present) assists in controlling lateral movement of the coupling mechanism210when in use. For example, the brace protrusion219constrains lateral movement of the coupling mechanism210and guides the coupling mechanism210to follow cooperative movement between the upper shuttle242and the groove250a.

Further, as illustrated inFIG.5Bthe bridge216optionally includes a lower shuttle244configured for movable coupling with a corresponding feature of the dispense body220. In one example, the lower shuttle244includes a pin, rail or the like projecting transverse relative to rotational axis150of the cartridge100. The lower shuttle244extends laterally relative to the rotational axis150, for instance at an angle orthogonal or oblique to the rotational axis150. In another example, the upper shuttle244is housed within a lower cavity217bformed in a bottom, or lower, portion of the bridge216. Optionally, a brace protrusion245in the lower cavity217bopposes the lower shuttle244. As discussed herein, the brace protrusion245(where present) assists in controlling lateral movement of the coupling mechanism210when in use. For example, the brace protrusion245constrains lateral movement of the coupling mechanism210and guides the coupling mechanism210to follow cooperative movement between the lower shuttle244and the groove250b.

Returning toFIGS.3A and3B, the upper shuttle242and the lower shuttle244fit within an upper receiving groove252aand the lower receiving groove252b, respectively, of the dispense body220. Hereinafter, groove can refer to, but is not limited to, groove, guide, rail, channel, track or the like. The upper receiving groove252a, for example, is formed in or with a protrusion250extending in a proximal direction of the cartridge100from the closed front face222of the dispense body220. The lower receiving groove252bextends in a proximal direction of the cartridge100, for example, from the closed front face222. The upper receiving groove252aand the lower receiving groove252bprovide an example of a path for the upper shuttle242and the lower shuttle244to travel during use. The upper shuttle242alone or in combination with the lower shuttle244provides, for example, a track or path that guides or directs the coupling mechanism210to move substantially linearly when in use, as discussed further below.

In an example, as illustrated inFIG.6, a biasing member248controls the movement of the coupling mechanism210during use. For example, on each of the dispense body220and the coupling mechanism210there is dispense body biasing member mount246and a coupling biasing member mount247, respectively. The dispense body biasing member mount246is, for example, a protrusion or extension on the dispense body220. In another example, the dispense body biasing member mount246is a recess or the like that provides an attachment or coupling point for the biasing member248on the dispense body220. The coupling biasing member mount247is, for example, a protrusion or extension on the coupling mechanism210. In another example, the coupling biasing member mount is a recess or the like that provides an attachment or coupling point for the biasing member248on the coupling mechanism210.

The dispense biasing member mount246and the coupling mechanism mount247, in an example, are aligned so the biasing member248is coupled with one end248aof the biasing member248coupled to the dispense biasing member mount246and another end248bof the biasing member248coupled to the coupling mechanism mount247. In an example, the biasing member248assists in controlling the movement of the coupling mechanism210or to assist in minimizing displacement of the coupling mechanism210in a lateral direction.

As illustrated in the examples shown inFIGS.5A and5B, the coupling mechanism210, includes features that attach, couple, or engage with corresponding elements in the image forming apparatus. For example, the coupling mechanism210has a plurality of coupling extensions270or protrusions attached to, protruding from, or engaged with at least one coupling member side portion,212aor212b(hereinafter “coupling extensions”). In an example, the coupling extensions270can be pins, posts, bosses, pegs or any shape or configuration suitable for the purpose. In an example, the coupling extensions270are cylindrical or elliptical cylinders, polygonal, or the like (as illustrated the examples inFIGS.7A and7B). In an example, the coupling extensions270can be a combination of profiles. The profile of the coupling extensions270provide a surface271that the elements of the image forming apparatus rest or engage. The coupling extensions270, for example, are configured for cooperate engagement with the corresponding elements of the image forming apparatus.

While there are two coupling extensions270shown in the examples illustrated inFIGS.5A and5Bthere can be two, three, four (as illustrated inFIG.7A) or more coupling extensions270on, or associated with, at least one coupling member side portion212aor212b. As illustrated in the example shown inFIGS.5A and5B, there are at least two coupling extensions270aand270bwith a first coupling extension270aplaced at a lower and proximal position, relative to the coupling mechanism210. The second coupling extension270bis, for example, at a position relatively higher than the lowest point of the first coupling extension270aand distally placed.

In an example, the coupling extensions270are arranged so the corresponding elements in the image forming apparatus rest on, between, or against at least one of the plurality of coupling extensions270without the corresponding elements of the image forming apparatus becoming disengaged during use. For example, if there are two coupling extensions270the corresponding elements in the image forming apparatus can rest on or between a first coupling extension270aand a second coupling extension270b. In another example, the corresponding elements in the image forming apparatus can pass over the first coupling extension270aand rest against the second coupling extension270b.

As illustrated inFIG.8, the coupling extensions270a,270bare designed to engage with a lift component1150of the image forming apparatus. The coupling extensions270aand270bare, for example, configured to transform longitudinal movement of the cartridge100into lifting movement of the coupling mechanism210relative to the cartridge100(e.g., from lower position to a higher position). The coupling extensions270a,270b, in an example, also capture the lift component1150and prevent travel of the lift component1150beyond the first coupling extension270a.

As illustrated in the examples inFIGS.9A and9B, the lift component1150translates the movement to a powder receiver1160and brings the powder receiver1160into engagement the dispense port232. When the dispense port232is open powder is, for example, exhausted or dispensed from the cartridge100and into the powder receiver1160. In an example, a powder break-up mechanism235is disposed, placed or coupled within the dispense port232. The powder break-up mechanism235is, for example, a coil spring, a mylar sheet, or any similar device that is configured to minimize powder blocking or accumulating in the dispense port232.

FIGS.10A,10B and10Cillustrate a method of the cartridge100being installed into the image forming apparatus. As the cartridge100is inserted into the image forming apparatus as indicated by the insertion direction1120, the hopper1000(illustrated inFIG.1,FIG.9AandFIG.9B) and the coupling extensions270engage or couple with the lift component1150. As the cartridge100is further inserted into the hopper1000and image forming apparatus, the coupling between the lift mechanism and the coupling mechanism210, causes the coupling mechanism to begin to travel in the direction of the upper groove252aand the lower groove252bat, for example, an inclined angle1100relative to the container movement and longitudinal axis150. For example, the coupling mechanism210is moved in a direction corresponding with the upper groove252aand the lower groove252b. The upper groove252a, for example, is formed on or in at least one side of the protrusion250at an oblique or an inclined angle1100on at least one side of the protrusion250. The upper shuttle242, in an example, is slidably coupled within the at least one groove252aand travels along the at least one groove252aon the dispense mechanism200to assist in guiding the coupling mechanism and translating a lifting motion to the coupling extensions270.

As illustrated inFIG.10B, after the cartridge100is further advanced, a force from the corresponding portion (i.e. lift component1150) in the image forming apparatus against the coupling extension270is, for example, translated to the upper shuttle242. The upper shuttle242then, in an example, is movably coupled such that it travels along or within the groove252a. The upper shuttle242, in an example, is slidably received within the groove of the laterally extending guide. If the cartridge has a lower shuttle244, the lower shuttle244travels along or within the lower groove252b. In an example, the upper shuttle242and lower shuttle244travel along the inclined upper groove252aand the lower groove252band elevates, lifts or raises the coupling extension270on the portion of the coupling mechanism210below the rotational axis150of the cartridge100. The movement of the coupling extension270, for example, translates movement to the corresponding portion (i.e. lift component1150) in the image forming apparatus that is coupled with the coupling extension270in the direction of movement1102, such as in an upward direction. As the corresponding portion (i.e. lift component1150) of the image forming apparatus is raised, for example, the powder receiving feature of the image forming apparatus is brought in close relationship with the dispense opening230and the dispense port232of the cartridge100, as illustrated inFIGS.9A and9B.

In an embodiment, when the cartridge100is removed from the machine by withdrawing the cartridge100from the image forming apparatus in the direction reverse from the insertion direction1120, the upper shuttle242, and optionally the lower shuttle244, travels downward or in the reverse direction along the upper groove252a, and optionally the lower groove252b. The coupling extensions270lower the corresponding feature (i.e. lift component1150) in the image forming apparatus and the powder receiving feature of the image forming apparatus. In an example, the powder receiving feature is no longer coupled with or proximate to the dispense port.

Various Notes and Aspects

Aspect 1 can include a powder cartridge including a cartridge having an opening at a proximal end and a cartridge interface coupled with the cartridge at the proximal end. The cartridge interface includes a cover, a dispense mechanism and a coupling mechanism. The dispense mechanism includes a cartridge side opening in communication with the opening at the proximal end of the cartridge, a dispense opening configured for communication with a powder receiving component of an image forming apparatus, and a groove protrusion having an inclined groove on at least one side. The coupling mechanism is coupled with the dispense mechanism. The coupling mechanism includes a coupling extension connected to the coupling mechanism and at least one shuttle configured for movable coupling along the groove protrusion. The coupling mechanism is configured to translate along the inclined groove and elevate relative to the dispense mechanism with installation of the powder cartridge into the image forming apparatus.

Aspect 2 can include, or can optionally be combined with the powder cartridge of Aspect 1, to optionally include the groove protrusion on a front surface of the dispense mechanism.

Aspect 3 can include, or can optionally be combined with the powder cartridge of one or any combination of Aspects 1 or 2 to optionally include the at least one shuttle extending laterally from the coupling mechanism.

Aspect 4 can include, or can optionally be combined with the powder cartridge of one or any combination of Aspects 1-3 to optionally include the at least one shuttle is slidably received along a laterally extending guide.

Aspect 5 can include, or can optionally be combined with the powder cartridge of one or any combination of Aspects 1-4 to optionally include the groove protrusion including a laterally extending guide.

Aspect 6 can include, or can optionally be combined with the powder cartridge of one or any combination of Aspects 1-5 to optionally include the coupling extension is configured for releasably coupling with a lift component of the image forming apparatus.

Aspect 7 can include a cartridge interface on a developer cartridge body comprising a cover, a dispense mechanism, a coupling mechanism, a biasing force mount and a biasing member. The cover including a chip holder and an image forming apparatus engagement. The dispense mechanism including a dispense opening and a dispense port configured for communication with a powder receiving component of the image forming apparatus. The dispense mechanism also including a shutter. The dispense mechanism further includes a groove protrusion having at least one inclined groove. The coupling mechanism includes at least two coupling extensions extending from at least one outer side surface of the coupling mechanism. The at least two coupling extensions extend from a lower portion of the at least one outer side surface coupling mechanism. The at least two coupling extensions are disposed on the coupling mechanism with a first coupling extension positioned above a center of a second coupling extension and the second coupling extension at a more forward position than the first coupling extension; and at least one shuttle extending from the coupling mechanism and toward the groove protrusion. The coupling mechanism is configured to translate along the at least one inclined groove and elevate relative to the dispense mechanism with installation of the developer cartridge body to the image forming apparatus. The biasing force mount on the coupling mechanism and the dispense mechanism. The biasing member coupled to the biasing force mount.

Aspect 8 can include, or can optionally be combined with the cartridge interface on a developer cartridge body including groove protrusion is on a front surface of the dispense mechanism.

Aspect 9 can include, or can optionally be combined with the cartridge interface on a developer cartridge body of one or any combination of Aspects 7 or 8 to optionally include the groove protrusion is obliquely angled.

Aspect 10 can include, or can optionally be combined with the cartridge interface on a developer cartridge body of one or any combination of Aspects 7-9 to optionally include the at least one groove is at an inclined angle.

Aspect 11 can include, or can optionally be combined with the cartridge interface on a developer cartridge body of one or any combination of Aspects 7-10 to optionally include the groove protrusion is laterally extending.

Aspect 12 can include, or can optionally be combined with the cartridge interface on a developer cartridge body of one or any combination of Aspects 7-11 to optionally include the shuttle extending laterally from the coupling mechanism.

Aspect 13 can include, or can optionally be combined with the cartridge interface on a developer cartridge body of one or any combination of Aspects 7-12 to optionally include the shuttle is slidably received within the groove.

Aspect 14 can include, or can optionally be combined with the cartridge interface on a developer cartridge body of one or any combination of Aspects 7-13 to optionally include the biasing member coupled on one end to the biasing force mount of the coupling mechanism and on another end to the biasing force mount of the dispense mechanism.

Aspect 15 can include, or can optionally be combined with the cartridge interface on a developer cartridge body of one or any combination of Aspects 7-14 to optionally include the coupling extension is configured for releasably coupling with a lift component of the image forming apparatus.

Aspect 16 can include, or can optionally be combined with the cartridge interface on a developer cartridge body of one or any combination of Aspects 7-15 to optionally include the coupling extensions are posts.

Aspect 17 can include a method of installing a powder cartridge in an image forming apparatus comprising inserting a cartridge interface of the cartridge into a hopper of the image forming apparatus. The cartridge interface including a dispense mechanism coupled to a coupling mechanism. The method includes coupling a plurality of coupling extensions disposed on at least one side of the coupling mechanism with a lift component of the image forming apparatus. The method includes advancing the cartridge further into the hopper. The method includes translating an inclined movement from the coupling of the lift component and the plurality of coupling extensions to the coupling mechanism and guiding the coupling mechanism and the plurality of coupling extensions in an inclined direction.

Aspect 18 can include, or can optionally be combined with the method of installing a powder cartridge having an upper groove and a lower groove; and the coupling mechanism has an upper shutter slidably coupled in the upper groove and a lower shuttle slidably coupled in the lower groove.

Aspect 19 can include, or can optionally be combined with the method of installing a powder cartridge of one or any combination of Aspects 17 or 18 to optionally include the dispense mechanism has a groove protrusion extending laterally from a front surface of the coupling mechanism. Wherein the groove protrusion has at least one inclined groove; and wherein the coupling mechanism has at least one shuttle configured movably coupled within the at least one inclined groove.

Aspect 20 can include or can optionally be combined with the method of installing a powder cartridge limiting lateral movement of the coupling mechanism relative to the dispense mechanism. Wherein a biasing member coupled with the dispense mechanism and the coupling mechanism limits the lateral movement.

The above description includes references to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed description. The drawings show, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention can be practiced. These embodiments are also referred to herein as “aspects” or “examples.” Such aspects or example can include elements in addition to those shown or described. However, the present inventors also contemplate aspects or examples in which only those elements shown or described are provided. Moreover, the present inventors also contemplate aspects or examples using any combination or permutation of those elements shown or described (or one or more features thereof), either with respect to a particular aspects or examples (or one or more features thereof), or with respect to other Aspects (or one or more features thereof) shown or described herein.

In the event of inconsistent usages between this document and any documents so incorporated by reference, the usage in this document controls.

In this document, the terms “a” or “an” are used, as is common in patent documents, to include one or more than one, independent of any other instances or usages of “at least one” or “one or more.” In this document, the term “or” is used to refer to a nonexclusive or, such that “A or B” includes “A but not B,” “B but not A,” and “A and B,” unless otherwise indicated. In this document, the terms “including” and “in which” are used as the plain-English equivalents of the respective terms “comprising” and “wherein.” Also, in the following claims, the terms “including” and “comprising” are open-ended, that is, a system, device, article, composition, formulation, or process that includes elements in addition to those listed after such a term in a claim are still deemed to fall within the scope of that claim. Moreover, in the following claims, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc. are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects.

Geometric terms, such as “parallel”, “perpendicular”, “round”, or “square”, are not intended to require absolute mathematical precision, unless the context indicates otherwise. Instead, such geometric terms allow for variations due to manufacturing or equivalent functions. For example, if an element is described as “round” or “generally round,” a component that is not precisely circular (e.g., one that is slightly oblong or is a many-sided polygon) is still encompassed by this description.

The above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-described aspects or examples (or one or more aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. Other embodiments can be used, such as by one of ordinary skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The Abstract is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. § 1.72 (b), to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Also, in the above Detailed Description, various features may be grouped together to streamline the disclosure. This should not be interpreted as intending that an unclaimed disclosed feature is essential to any claim. Rather, inventive subject matter may lie in less than all features of a particular disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description as aspects, examples or embodiments, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment, and it is contemplated that such embodiments can be combined with each other in various combinations or permutations. The scope of the invention should be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.