U.S. patent application number 11/560255 was filed with the patent office on 2007-05-31 for sliding panel assemblies and connectors.
This patent application is currently assigned to Adam's Specialty Products, LLC. Invention is credited to Adam J. Keller.
Application Number | 20070119113 11/560255 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37605441 |
Filed Date | 2007-05-31 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070119113 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Keller; Adam J. |
May 31, 2007 |
Sliding Panel Assemblies and Connectors
Abstract
A slidable panel assembly has a multi-component perimeter frame.
The perimeter frame houses a sheet-type or panel-type structure
therein. Each of the outwardly facing edge surfaces of the
perimeter frame has a channel extending thereinto. The leading and
trailing portions of the perimeter edge channels, adjacent the
perimeter corners, define a step change in channel depth with
respect to the remainder of the edge channel.
Inventors: |
Keller; Adam J.; (Neenah,
WI) |
Correspondence
Address: |
WILHELM LAW SERVICE, S.C.
100 W LAWRENCE ST
THIRD FLOOR
APPLETON
WI
54911
US
|
Assignee: |
Adam's Specialty Products,
LLC
Neenah
WI
|
Family ID: |
37605441 |
Appl. No.: |
11/560255 |
Filed: |
November 15, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60737589 |
Nov 16, 2005 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
52/506.01 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E06B 3/9641 20130101;
E06B 3/72 20130101; E06B 2003/7082 20130101; E06B 3/4663
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
052/506.01 |
International
Class: |
E04B 2/00 20060101
E04B002/00 |
Claims
1. A panel assembly, comprising: (a) a generally planar sheet which
defines an outer sheet perimeter; and (b) a frame which houses said
sheet and defines an inner frame perimeter and an outer frame
perimeter, said inner frame perimeter communicating with said outer
sheet perimeter; (i) at least part of the inner frame perimeter
defining an elongate channel extending thereinto; and (ii) at least
part of the outer frame perimeter defining an elongate channel
extending thereinto; said outer frame perimeter channel defines a
channel depth which varies along at least a portion of the length
of said channel and correspondingly defines a channel depth
variation portion, whereby said outer frame perimeter channel has a
first channel depth dimension at a first locus along its length and
a second channel depth dimension at a second locus along its
length.
2. A panel assembly as in claim 1 wherein such channel depth
variation is a step-change discontinuity.
3. A panel assembly as in claim 1 wherein such channel depth
variation is a continuous, non-step, change in magnitude.
4. A panel assembly as in claim 1 wherein said first channel depth
dimension is defined at a medial portion along the channel length
and is of relatively greater magnitude than the magnitude of said
second channel depth dimension.
5. A panel assembly as in claim 1 wherein said first channel depth
dimension is defined at a medial portion along the channel length
and is of relatively lesser magnitude than the magnitude of said
second channel depth dimension.
6. A panel assembly as in claim 1 wherein such channel depth
variation portion is located generally adjacent and end of said
outer frame perimeter channel.
7. A panel assembly as in claim 1, said channel defining first and
second channel such channel depth variation portions along the
channel length, such first and second depth variation locations
generally adjacent respective ones of first and second ends of said
outer frame perimeter channel.
8. A panel assembly as in claim 1 wherein said panel assembly
defines a slidable door member of an animal housing enclosure.
9. A panel assembly as in claim 1 wherein said panel assembly
defines a slidable floor member of an animal housing enclosure.
10. A panel assembly as in claim 1 wherein said panel assembly
defines a slidable door member of a display case.
11. A panel assembly as in claim 1 wherein said panel assembly
defines a slidable floor member of a display case.
12. A panel assembly as in claim 1 wherein said generally planar
sheet defines a continuous surface.
13. A panel assembly as in claim 1 wherein said generally planar
sheet defines a discontinuous surface.
14. A panel assembly as in claim 13 wherein said generally planar
sheet defines a mesh surface.
15. A panel assembly, comprising: (a) a generally planar sheet
which defines an outer sheet perimeter; and (b) a frame which
houses said sheet and defines an inner frame perimeter and an outer
frame perimeter, said inner frame perimeter communicating with said
outer sheet perimeter; and (c) an elongate channel which extends
into said frame inner perimeter; said elongate channel including a
bottom wall, first and second sidewalls extending outwardly
therefrom, and at least one elongate rib extending inwardly away
from one of said first and second channel sidewalls.
16. A panel assembly as in claim 15 wherein said elongate rib is a
portion of a channel lining member, said channel lining member
housed within said elongate channel.
17. A panel assembly as in claim 15 wherein said elongate rib
extends generally angularly downwardly from said channel sidewall,
into said channel, whereby the angle between said channel sidewall
and said rib is an acute angle.
18. A panel assembly as in claim 15, said channel including first
and second elongate rib members which extend in directions which
generally converge toward each other.
19. A panel assembly as in claim 15 wherein said elongate rib
members are made of a resiliently flexible material.
20. A panel assembly, comprising: (a) a generally planar sheet
which defines an outer sheet perimeter; and (b) a frame which
houses said sheet and includes (i) a first elongate member and a
second elongate member which extend generally perpendicularly away
from each other; (ii) a corner member joining said first and second
elongate members which has first and second outer edges, each of
said first and second outer edges having a channel extending
thereinto, said channels opening into each other defining a
generally L-shaped void.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a Non-Provisional Application, claiming
priority under 35 U.S.C. 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Application
Ser. No. 60/737,589, filed Nov. 16, 2005, which is incorporated
herein by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The present invention relates generally to enclosures and
other structures which include one or more slidable panel.
Exemplary of such enclosures and other structures include various
structures which have e.g. doors, windows, floors, drawers,
shelves, and/or other structures which can include one or more
slidable panels, such as various dwellings, other buildings such as
garages, sheds, and commercial buildings, and/or other
constructions. Other such enclosures and other structures include
animal housing enclosures, taxidermy display cases, other display
cases, electronic component housing cases, and/or others.
[0003] Such enclosures and structures already frequently implement
various slidable panels, such as slidable doors, windows, floors,
drawers, shelves, and/or other structures. However, some of the
slidable panels currently used are relatively expensive, while
others have only a relatively short use life.
[0004] In addition, use characteristics of some slidable panels
deteriorate over time and/or between different implementations. For
example, some relatively large and heavy slidable doors on animal
housing enclosures are relatively difficult, for some users, to
operate, due at least in part to the coefficient of friction
defined between various slidingly interfacing components.
[0005] Accordingly, it might prove desirable to provide slidable
panel assemblies which realize a relatively low coefficient of
friction between various slidingly interfacing components.
[0006] It might prove desirable to provide slidable panel
assemblies which utilize at least some various common components
regardless of the end-use implementation.
[0007] In other words, it might prove desirable to provide slidable
panel assembles with at least partially modular design
characteristics, whereby the complexity of inventory methodology
and logistics performed by ones of manufacturers, distributors,
retailers, and/or others, can be relatively decreased.
[0008] It might also prove desirable to provide slidable panel
assemblies which are relatively easily assembled by end users, or
others.
SUMMARY
[0009] This invention provides a slidable panel assembly which has
a multi-component perimeter frame. The perimeter frame houses a
sheet-type or panel-type structure therein. Each of the outwardly
facing edge surfaces of the perimeter frame has a channel extending
thereinto. The leading and trailing portions of the perimeter edge
channels, adjacent the perimeter corners, define a step change in
channel depth with respect to the remainder of the edge
channel.
[0010] In a first family of embodiments, the invention comprehends
a panel assembly, comprising: (a) a generally planar sheet which
defines an outer sheet perimeter; and (b) a frame which houses the
sheet and defines an inner frame perimeter and an outer frame
perimeter, the inner frame perimeter communicating with the outer
sheet perimeter; (i) at least part of the inner frame perimeter
defining an elongate channel extending thereinto; and (ii) at least
part of the outer frame perimeter defining an elongate channel
extending thereinto; the outer frame perimeter channel defines a
channel depth which varies along at least a portion of the length
of the channel and correspondingly defines a channel depth
variation portion, whereby the outer frame perimeter channel has a
first channel depth dimension at a first locus along its length and
a second channel depth dimension at a second locus along its
length.
[0011] In some embodiments, such channel depth variation is a
step-change discontinuity.
[0012] In some embodiments, such channel depth variation is a
continuous, non-step, change in magnitude.
[0013] In some embodiments, the first channel depth dimension is
defined at a medial portion along the channel length and is of
relatively greater magnitude than the magnitude of the second
channel depth dimension.
[0014] In some embodiments, the first channel depth dimension is
defined at a medial portion along the channel length and is of
relatively lesser magnitude than the magnitude of the second
channel depth dimension.
[0015] In some embodiments, such channel depth variation portion is
located generally adjacent an end of the outer frame perimeter
channel.
[0016] In some embodiments, the channel defining first and second
channel such channel depth variation portions along the channel
length, such first and second depth variation locations generally
adjacent respective ones of first and second ends of the outer
frame perimeter channel.
[0017] In some embodiments, the panel assembly defines a slidable
door member of an animal housing enclosure.
[0018] In some embodiments, the panel assembly defines a slidable
floor member of an animal housing enclosure.
[0019] In some embodiments, the panel assembly defines a slidable
door member of a display case.
[0020] In some embodiments, the panel assembly defines a slidable
floor member of a display case.
[0021] In some embodiments, the generally planar sheet defines a
continuous surface.
[0022] In some embodiments, the generally planar sheet defines a
discontinuous surface.
[0023] In some embodiments, the generally planar sheet defines a
mesh surface.
[0024] In a second family of embodiments, the invention comprehends
a panel assembly, comprising: (a) a generally planar sheet which
defines an outer sheet perimeter; and (b) a frame which houses the
sheet and defines an inner frame perimeter and an outer frame
perimeter, the inner frame perimeter communicating with the outer
sheet perimeter; and (c) an elongate channel which extends into the
frame inner perimeter; the elongate channel including a bottom
wall, first and second sidewalls extending outwardly therefrom, and
at least one elongate rib extending inwardly away from one of the
first and second channel sidewalls.
[0025] In some embodiments, the elongate rib is a portion of a
channel lining member, the channel lining member housed within the
elongate channel.
[0026] In some embodiments, the elongate rib extends generally
angularly downwardly from the channel sidewall, into the channel,
whereby the angle between the channel sidewall and the rib is an
acute angle.
[0027] In some embodiments, the channel including first and second
elongate rib members which extend in directions which generally
converge toward each other.
[0028] In some embodiments, the elongate rib members are made of a
resiliently flexible material.
[0029] In a third family of embodiments, the invention comprehends
a panel assembly, comprising: (a) a generally planar sheet which
defines an outer sheet perimeter; and (b) a frame which houses the
sheet and includes (i) a first elongate member and a second
elongate member which extend generally perpendicularly away from
each other; (ii) a corner member joining the first and second
elongate members which has first and second outer edges, each of
the first and second outer edges having a channel extending
thereinto, the channels opening into each other defining a
generally L-shaped void.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0030] FIG. 1A shows a pictorial view of a first embodiment of
structures which utilize sliding panel assemblies of the
invention.
[0031] FIG. 1B shows a front elevation view of a second embodiment
of structures which utilize sliding panel assemblies of the
invention.
[0032] FIG. 1C shows a pictorial view of a third embodiment of
structures which utilize sliding panel assemblies of the
invention.
[0033] FIG. 2 shows a pictorial view of a fourth embodiment of
structures which utilize sliding panel assemblies of the
invention.
[0034] FIG. 3 shows a pictorial view of a fifth embodiment of
structures which utilize sliding panel assemblies of the
invention.
[0035] FIG. 4A shows a pictorial view of a sixth embodiment of
structures which utilize sliding panel assemblies of the
invention.
[0036] FIG. 4B shows a pictorial view of a seventh embodiment of
structures which utilize sliding panel assemblies of the
invention.
[0037] FIG. 5 shows a pictorial view of an eighth embodiment of
structures which utilize sliding panel assemblies of the
invention.
[0038] FIG. 6 shows a front elevation view of a sliding panel
assembly of the invention.
[0039] FIG. 7 shows an elevation view of a sectioned portion of the
sliding panel of FIG. 6, sectioned at the dashed section line FIG.
7-FIG. 7.
[0040] FIG. 8 shows an enlarged elevation view of a portion of the
sliding panel of FIG. 7, indicated at the dashed box FIG. 8 in FIG.
7.
[0041] FIG. 9 shows a pictorial view of portions of first and
second sliding panel assemblies sitting upon portions of respective
first and second guiderails.
[0042] FIG. 10A shows a front elevation view of enlarged portions
of first and second sliding panel assemblies and first and second
guiderails of FIG. 9, indicated at the dashed box labeled FIG.
10A.
[0043] FIG. 10B shows an end view profile of an elongate member of
a slidable panel assembly of the invention.
[0044] FIG. 11A shows a pictorial view of a first embodiment of
channel adapters of the invention.
[0045] FIG. 11B shows an end view profile of the channel adapter of
FIG. 11A.
[0046] FIG. 11C shows a pictorial view of a variant of the channel
adapter of FIG. 11A.
[0047] FIG. 11D shows an end view profile of a variant of the
channel adapter of FIG. 11C.
[0048] FIG. 12 shows a close-up partial front elevation view of the
overlapping relationship between parts of a slidable panel assembly
and parts of enclosure frame components, indicated in FIG. 1B by
the dashed circle labeled FIG. 12.
[0049] FIG. 13 shows a pictorial view of a portion of a portion of
a slidable panel assembly, adjacent a corner member.
[0050] FIG. 14 shows a first pictorial view of a corner member of
the invention.
[0051] FIG. 15 shows a second pictorial view of the corner member
of FIG. 14, viewed generally from the other side of the corner
member.
[0052] FIG. 16A shows a pictorial view of a slidable panel
assembly, slidable housed between lateral hangers which are in turn
mounted to enclosure frame members.
[0053] FIG. 16B shows a close-up, pictorial view of a corner of the
slidable panel assembly of FIG. 16A.
[0054] FIG. 16C shows a cross-sectional view of the slidable panel
assembly corner of FIG. 16B, taken at line 16C.
[0055] The invention is not limited in its application to the
details of construction or the arrangement of the components set
forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings.
The invention is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced
or carried out in other various ways. Also, it is to be understood
that the terminology and phraseology employed herein is for purpose
of description and illustration and should not be regarded as
limiting. Like reference numerals are used to indicate like
components.
DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATED EMBODIMENTS
[0056] FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, 2, 3, 4A, 4B, and 5 show various,
non-limiting, implementations of sliding panel assemblies and
connectors of the invention, as used in various e.g. enclosures and
other structures. It is understood that sliding panel assemblies
and connectors of the invention are applicable to the illustrated
and other suitable embodiments in which sliding panel structures
are utilized.
[0057] In other words, enclosure 1 includes e.g. display case 10A
(FIG. 1A), animal enclosures 10A, 10B (FIGS. 1B and 1C,
respectively), display case 10D (FIG. 2), shower 10E (FIG. 3), and
display cases 10F, 10G (FIGS. 4A and 4B, respectively), building
10H (FIG. 5), and/or other enclosures or other structures which
includes at least one slidable panel.
[0058] Common to the various enclosures structures are a plurality
of sidewalls, a floor structure and a top wall structure. The walls
and floors are made of various suitable sheet material(s) e.g.
sheet "S". The particular material(s) are selected based on the
intended use environment of the enclosure.
[0059] Referring now to FIG. 1A, enclosure 1 includes display case
10A and stand 15. Display case 10A sits atop and is fixedly,
optionally removably, mounted to stand 15. As illustrated, stand 15
includes a plurality of legs which extend downwardly from, for
example, the lower surface of display case 10A. In other
embodiments, stand 15 is a single, unitary structure such as a
pedestal, a platform, or another unitary base structure which
functions to elevate display case 10A with respect to e.g. the
ground or floor.
[0060] In some embodiments, enclosure 1 is generally devoid of
stand 15, whereby display case 10A sits directly upon the upper
surface of a floor, the ground, or other suitable support
substrate. In yet other embodiments, enclosure 1 is generally
devoid of stand 15 and display case 10A is hung upon, for example a
wall, or suspended from, for example, a ceiling. Those skilled in
the art are well aware of suitable mounting and suspension
hardware, fasteners, and/or other devices suitable to hang display
case 10A from a wall, suspend display case 10A from a ceiling,
and/or otherwise mount display case 10A do a desired mounting
substrate. Such suitable hardware, fasteners, and/or other devices
include, but are not limited to, various screws, bolts, nails,
brackets, wires, cables, and/or others.
[0061] Referring now to FIG. 2 and to alternative display cases, in
some embodiments, one or more slidable panel assemblies are located
on the top wall of enclosure structure 1, such as in the embodiment
illustrated as display case 10D. Mounting slidable panel assemblies
100A, 100B on the top wall of enclosure 1 is desirable when, for
example, the user does not want any visually conspicuous
obstructions e.g. wire mesh, the interface between corresponding
slidable panel assemblies, or other visual obstructions in ones of
the outer perimeter walls 25, 30, 35, 40.
[0062] Exemplary of suitable implementations of display case 10D
are showcasing or displaying taxidermy mounts or other trophies,
and/or showcasing or displaying various memorabilia or
collectables, as desired. In other embodiments, display case 10D
defines a generally liquid tight enclosure, whereby the display
case 10D is suitable for use as e.g. an aquarium.
[0063] Referring now to FIGS. 4A and 4B and the display cases
illustrated therein, in some embodiments, enclosure 1, includes a
plurality of horizontally slidable members, such as slidable panel
assemblies 20, 100B, 100C, 100D, and 100E. Such embodiments are
desirable when the user seeks to display numerous relatively small
display items, e.g. relatively small taxidermy mounts, various
collectables, items of memorabilia, and/or other relatively small
display items. Suitable relatively small display items also
includes various electronic components, such as, for example, home
theater or stereo components or other electronic components,
whereby display cases 10F, 10G generally serve as electronic
component cabinets or electronic component racks, with slidable
shelves.
[0064] Display case 10F, illustrated in FIG. 4A, includes a
plurality of horizontally slidable members, e.g. various ones of
slidable panel assemblies 20, 100B, 100C, 100D, and 100E, and
vertically slidable members, namely slidable panel assemblies 100A,
100B. The horizontally slidable members generally define slidable
shelves, whilst the vertically slidable members generally define
slidable doors. As illustrated, slidable panel assemblies 20, 10B,
10C, 100D, and 100E slidingly actuate outwardly away from slidable
panel assemblies 100A, 100B, since the slidable panel assemblies
100A, 100B provide a mechanical barrier which prevents
forward-direction sliding movement.
[0065] However, as desired, display case 10F includes pivotably
openable door members which do not provide a mechanical barrier
which prevents forward-direction sliding movement of slidable panel
assemblies 20, 100B, 100C, 100D, and 100E, whereby the user can
slide the panel assemblies forwards or rearward, as desired.
[0066] Display case 10G, illustrated in FIG. 4B is generally the
same as that of display case 10F of FIG. 4A. However, display case
10G differs from 10F in that case 10G is devoid of slidable panel
assemblies 100A, 100B.
[0067] Regarding other embodiments of enclosures, FIGS. 1B and 1C
generally illustrate animal cages or other animal housing
enclosures. The enclosure of FIG. 1B includes e.g. wire mesh walls
as opposed to the clear acrylic sheets "S" FIG. 1A. As desired, the
animal housing enclosure includes clear sidewalls similar to those
of FIG. 1A. The enclosure of FIG. 1C includes both mesh and solid,
clear, sidewalls.
[0068] Referring now to FIG. 3, in some embodiments, enclosure 1 is
a shower, exemplarily illustrated as shower enclosure 10E. Shower
enclosure 10E includes bath tub "BT," a plurality of sidewalls
which are defined by interior walls of the dwelling in which shower
enclosure 10E is installed, various plumbing fixtures, and slidable
panel assemblies 100A, 10B.
[0069] In embodiments of shower enclosure 10E, slidable panel
assemblies 100A, 100B include sheet "S" which is made of e.g.
tempered safety glass, or other sheet material suitably safe for
use in a shower/bathroom environment.
[0070] Referring now to FIG. 5, in some embodiments, the slidable
panel assemblies are components of windows, patio doors, storm
doors, screen doors, or other such building materials. Building 10H
is exemplary of an enclosure implementing such a device,
illustrated as a window. In other words, in some embodiments,
slidable panel assemblies 100A, 100B, or others, define slidable
components of e.g. a window. In such embodiments, the sheet "S" is
made from suitable material e.g. glass, insulating glass, low-e
glass, safety glass, acrylic, and/or other suitable window
component material.
[0071] Various enclosure piece-parts and assemblies are described
herein specifically referring to different types of enclosures.
However, it is well understood that the discussion with respect to
one type of enclosure is equally applicable to the various other
types of enclosures as well. In other words, the discussion of
display cases is equally applicable to animal housing enclosure
structures, etcetera.
[0072] Display case 10A is a generally enclosed structure suitable
for housing, displaying, and or otherwise containing, various
structures and/or other articles or subject matter which a user
desires to confine and/or display.
[0073] Exemplary of such display suitable subject matter includes,
but is not limited to, taxidermy mounts or other taxidermy
displays. When used to house taxidermy display subject matter,
display case 10A is adapted and configured to suitably house such
subject matter. As one example, when an embodiment of display case
10A houses a relatively small taxidermy mounts such as e.g. fish,
water fowl or other game birds, relatively small mammals, reptiles,
and/or other wildlife, the display case 10A is relatively smaller
in terms of dimensions and/or constitution than when an embodiment
of display case 10A houses a relatively large taxidermy mount such
as e.g. full body mounts of large mammals e.g. canines, felines,
deer, bear, and/or others.
[0074] Other exemplary subject matter includes various
collectables, such as, for example, articles of memorabilia,
figurines, historical and other artifacts, oddities, collections of
various ilk, documents, and/or others, e.g. anything a user wishes
to display which suitably fits in enclosure 1.
[0075] Display case10A includes various enclosure surfaces and/or
structures e.g. bottom wall 20, first and second side walls 25, 30,
back wall 35, front wall 40, and top wall 45.
[0076] The assemblage of the bottom wall 20, first and second side
walls 25, 30, back wall 35, front wall 40, and top wall 45, in
combination, generally defines an enclosure body, which houses the
e.g. showcased or display articles.
[0077] Bottom wall 20 is a generally polygonal, rigid, panel which
lies in a plane which is generally parallel to the ground. The
bottom wall is fixedly or removably, slidably removably or
otherwise, mounted to various other components of the case. Side
walls 25 and 30 extend upwardly from opposite lateral perimeter
edges of bottom wall 20. Back wall 35 and front wall 40 extend
upwardly from opposite e.g. back and front perimeter edges of
bottom wall 20.
[0078] The end, edge, surfaces of sidewalls 25 and 30, which extend
vertically, communicate with and are connected to corresponding
end, edge, surfaces, which extend vertically, of back wall 35 and
front wall 40. Accordingly, in the complete assemblage of display
case 10A, first and second side walls 25, 30, back wall 35, front
wall 40, in combination, generally define an outer perimeter wall
thereof.
[0079] Top wall 45 is a generally polygonal panel which lies in a
plane that is generally parallel to the ground and bottom wall 20.
Top wall 45 has a perimeter shape which corresponds to the
perimeter shape of bottom wall 20, whereby the upper edge surfaces
of first and second side walls 25, 30, and back and front walls 35,
40 interface top wall 45, adjacent respective outer edges of the
top wall. In other words, first and second side walls 25, 30, and
back and front walls 35, 40, span between and connect bottom wall
20 and top wall 45, adjacent their respective outer perimeters.
[0080] One or more of the various walls or panels of enclosure 1,
namely one or more of bottom wall 20, first and second side walls
25, 30, back wall 35, front wall 40, and top wall 45 includes at
least one slidable panel or member.
[0081] As one example, as illustrated in FIG. 1A front wall 40
includes first and second slidable panel assemblies 100A and 100B.
However, it if fully contemplated that in some embodiments, only
one slidable panel is utilized. In some embodiments, more than two
slidable panels are utilized.
[0082] In some embodiments, more than one of the walls includes one
or more sliding panel. In one such embodiment, back wall 35
includes slidable panel assembly 100A and a fixed panel portion,
and front wall 40 includes slidable panel assembly 100B and a fixed
panel portion. In some embodiments, front wall 40 includes first
and second slidable panel assemblies 100A, 10B, and back wall 35
includes at least one sliding panel, optionally back wall 35
includes at least two sliding panels. In some embodiments, one of
sidewalls 25 and 30 includes at least one sliding panel. In some
embodiments, both of sidewalls 25 and 30 include at least one
sliding panel.
[0083] Enclosure 1 includes a frame structure which generally
defines the skeletal and load bearing structure of the enclosure.
The frame structure includes various frame members, such as frame
member 60 (FIG. 10A). Various ones of the frame members 60 include
at least one rail-type structure, e.g. rail "R" which is adapted
and configured to support and slidingly interface with and/or guide
various ones of the slidable panel assemblies.
[0084] Referring now to FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, 2, 3, 4A, 4B, 5, 6, and
7, each of panels assemblies 100A, 100B, 100C, 100D, and 100E
includes an panel perimeter frame assembly and a panel sheet.
Namely, each panels assembly 100A, 100B, 100C, 100D, and 100E
includes e.g. panel frame "FR" and sheet "S." In general, panel
frame "FR" generally envelopes at least a portion of the outer
perimeter of sheet "S." In other words, sheet "S" is mounted in, or
otherwise connected to, frame "FR" and generally covers the void
which is otherwise defined by the panel frame "FR" inner
perimeter.
[0085] Ones of panel assemblies 100A, 100B, 100C, 100D, and 100E
will be referred to, collectively or separately, as panel assembly
100. Accordingly, when referred to as panel assembly 100, it is
understood that the reference is to one or more of panel assemblies
100A, 100B, 100C, 100D, and 100E, or other suitable panel
assemblies.
[0086] The particular materials of which the respective panels are
made are selected so as to be suitable for it intended use
environment and it particular use application. As one example,
embodiments of enclosures 1 which are housed indoors, in relatively
low humidity environments, wherein enclosures 1 serve primarily
aesthetic functions e.g. housing and displaying collectables,
taxidermy mounts, or other display items, various components of
panel frame "FR" are made of wooden materials which include, but
are not limited to, various of the hardwoods e.g. ash, cherry,
maple, oak, pecan, teak, rosewood, walnut, mahogany and poplar,
various of the softwoods e.g. cedar, cypress, fir, pine and
redwood, and/or others.
[0087] In some embodiments, panel frame "FR" is a combination of
e.g. wooden and metallic materials. In such embodiments, frame "FR"
includes, for example, metallic extrusions which primarily provide
the structural integrity of the panel frame, and outwardly facing
wooden millwork, or other wooden products, attached to the metallic
extrusions which provide a relatively aesthetically pleasing
appearance.
[0088] As desired, various components of panel frame "FR" are made
of various metallic materials and/or non-metallic and non-wooden
materials. Suitable metallic materials include, but are not limited
to, e.g. aluminum, anodized aluminum, steel, stainless steel,
titanium, magnesium, brass, and their respective alloys. Because of
the relatively light weight and relatively high strength, a
preferred material for certain components of panel frame "FR" is
extruded aluminum. Some components of panel frame "FR" are made at
least partially from other non-metallic materials, such as various
polymeric materials, which are molded, extruded, or otherwise
formed.
[0089] In embodiments in which panel assembly 100 defines a
generally rectangular perimeter, each frame "FR," includes two
corresponding pairs and thus four generally elongate members, and a
corner member 140 adjacent each corner. Namely, frame "FR" includes
elongate members 120, 122, 130, and 132, which collectively define
the major portion of the panel assembly perimeter, and which are
each connected at respective ends to a respective corner member
140.
[0090] Each of elongate members 120, 122, 130, and 132 is a
generally elongate, rigid member, which generally defines an
"H-shaped" profile (FIGS. 9, 10A, 10B, and 13). To arrive at the
H-shaped profile, each of elongate members 120, 122, 130, and 132
includes first and second elongate, flat, flange portions "FL" and
an elongate connecting portion.
[0091] Various portions of ones of elongate members 120, 122, 130,
and 132 are illustrated in FIG. 10B with respect to elongate member
132. In some embodiments, elongate members 120, 122, 130 are
analogs of elongate member 132, whereby the illustration of
elongate member 132 is equally applicable as a representative
illustration of elongate members 120, 122, and 130.
[0092] The first and second flange portions "FL" are generally
parallel to each other and spaced from each other. The connecting
portion "CP" extends between, along the length of, and connects the
first and second flange portions "FL."
[0093] Namely, the connecting portion "CP" extends perpendicularly
between and connects the first and second flange portions "FL,"
along a medial portion thereof and along a major portion of the
length thereof. Thus, the width dimension of the connecting portion
corresponds in magnitude to the magnitude of the distance between
the first and second flange portions.
[0094] Stated another way, connecting portion "CP" is generally
defined between two channels which extend into the elongate member
132, toward each other, namely channels or voids 132A and 132B. The
channels/voids 132A, 132B, define various receiving structures,
which correspond to the particular end use of the device. For
example, referring to FIG. 10B, channel 132B includes a depression
"D" which extends into the connecting portion "CP." Also, a screw
boss, an elongate bore, and/or other receiving structure, adapted
and configured to receive hardware such as a bolt or screw therein,
namely screw boss "SB" extends from depression "D", relatively
further into connecting portion "CP".
[0095] Thus, connecting portion "CP" generally defines a bottom
wall of each of two oppositely facing channels. Accordingly, as
mentioned above, each of the various elongate members such as 120,
122 has an outwardly facing channel opening, e.g. openings 220A and
222A respectively, and an inwardly facing channel opening, e.g.
openings 220B and 222B respective. Inwardly facing openings 220B
and 222B are indicated with a dashed line in FIG. 13.
[0096] Likewise, each of elongate members 130, 132 has an outwardly
facing opening, e.g. openings 230A and 232A which open into
channels 130A, 132A, respectively, and an inwardly facing opening,
e.g. openings 230B and 232B which extend into channels 130B, 132B,
respectively. Inwardly facing openings 230B and 232B are indicated
with a dashed line in FIG. 13.
[0097] Ones of elongate members 120, 122, 130 and 132 extend from
respective ones of corner members 140. In particular, in each of
elongate members 120, 122, 130 and 132, the ends are each connected
to respective ones of corner members 140, whereby the length of
each elongate member extends between such first and second corner
member 140.
[0098] The respective pairs or elongate members, namely (i)
elongate members 120, 122, and (ii) elongate members 130, 132,
extend in directions which are generally perpendicular to each
other. The elongate members 120 and 122 extend generally parallel
to each other and are spaced from each other. Elongate members 130
and 132 extend generally parallel to each other and are spaced from
each other. And elongate members 120, 122 are generally
perpendicular to elongate members 130, 132.
[0099] Accordingly, referring now to FIGS. 6, 7, and 8, in a given
slidable panel assembly 100, respective ends of elongate members
120 and 130 are connected to each other by a first corner member
140; respective ends of elongate members 130 and 122 are connected
to each other by a second corner member 140; respective ends of
elongate members 122 and 132 are connected to each other by a third
corner member 140; and respective ends of elongate members 132 and
120 are connected to each other by a fourth corner member 140.
[0100] As illustrated in FIGS. 1B, 3, 4A, and 12, in the entire
assemblage slidable panel assembly 100, parts of ones of the
elongate members 120, 122 and 130, 132, extend over, and overlie,
portions of corresponding other parts of enclosure 1.
[0101] Referring now to FIG. 13, ones of outwardly facing channels
220A, 222A, 230A, and 232A, of elongate members 120, 122, 130, and
132 respectively, are adapted and configured to slide across,
partially envelope, laterally sandwich, corresponding structure,
extend over, or overlie, for example, an elongate projection or
rail e.g. rail "R" (FIG. 10A) on the enclosure structure 1.
[0102] Correspondingly, ones of channels 220A, 222A, 230A, and
232A, at least to some extent, provide lateral or other guidance or
tracking functionality to slidable panel 100 during use. Also, it
should be noted that in some embodiments, the channels of the
sliding panels do not directly contact the rails "R." Rather,
portions of corner member 140 provide the load bearing and sliding
interface between the slidable panel 100 and the respective rail
"R." Such orientation is illustrated by clearance 132C which is the
void space between the channel bottom surface and the rail "R".
[0103] Channels 220B, 222B, 230B and 232B receive and hold sheet
"S" therein. In other words, the corresponding flange portions
which define the outer walls of channels 220B, 222B, 230B and 232B
lie on opposite sides of and thus sandwich or otherwise restrain,
outer perimeter surfaces of sheet "S." This interfacing
relationship and interaction between the inwardly facing surfaces
of channels 220B, 222B, 230B and 232B and the outwardly facing
surfaces adjacent the perimeter edges of sheet "S" enable the
channels to effectively frame-in, restrain, and/or otherwise hold,
sheet "S" within the remainder of sliding panel assembly 100.
[0104] Thus, while ones of channels 220A, 222A, 230A and 232A are
adapted and configured to interface with other components and
portions of enclosure 1 to realize a holding yet slidable
relationship between slidable panel 100 and enclosure 1, ones of
channels 220B, 222B, 230B and 232B are adapted and configured to
suitably hold sheet "S".
[0105] Channels 220B, 222B, 230B and 232B are adapted and
configured to suitably hold portions of sheet "S" therein.
Accordingly, the magnitude of the width dimension of the channel
opening corresponds to the magnitude of the e.g. thickness
dimension of sheet "S," whereby the outer edges of sheet "S" are
insertable into ones of channels 220B, 222B, 230B and 232B.
[0106] In some embodiments, the magnitude of the sheet "S"
thickness dimension is less than desired in relationship to the
magnitude of the opening width dimension of ones of channels 220B,
222B, 230B and 232B, whereby sheet "S" is housed rather loosely in
the channel(s). In such embodiments, as desired, a user uses
channel adapter 300 (FIGS. 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D) to relatively reduce
the effective size of the channel opening.
[0107] Referring now to FIGS. 11A and 11B, channel adapter 300
includes adapter bottom wall 305, first and second adapter
sidewalls 310, 315, and first and second adapter ribs 320, 322.
Adapter bottom wall 305 is a generally planar member with first and
second sides. First adapter sidewall 310 extends generally
perpendicularly upwardly away from the upper surface of the first
bottom wall side, adjacent the outer edge thereof. Second adapter
sidewall 315 extends generally perpendicularly upwardly away from
the upper surface of the second bottom wall side, adjacent the
outer edge thereof.
[0108] Accordingly, first and second sidewalls 310 and 315 are
generally parallel to each other, and each extends upwardly from a
respective outer portion of the upper surface of adapter bottom
wall 305.
[0109] First rib 320 extends along the length of the inwardly
facing surface of the upper portion of sidewall 310. First rib 320
extends generally angularly downwardly, generally toward the
inwardly facing surface of sidewall 315. In other words, first rib
320 appears to be a barbed projection, pointing in the general
direction of sidewall 315, when viewed in front elevation.
[0110] Second rib 322 extends generally angularly downwardly,
generally toward the inwardly facing surface of sidewall 310. In
other words, second rib 322 appears to be a barbed projection,
pointing in the general direction of sidewall 310, when viewed in
front elevation.
[0111] Each of first and second ribs 320, 322, are adapted and
configured to relatively easily deflect inwardly and downwardly,
e.g. arcuately downwardly, toward bottom wall 305. And each of
first and second ribs 320, 322, are adapted and configured to
generally resist deflection outwardly and upwardly, generally away
from bottom wall 305
[0112] The size of the space or void between first and second ribs
320, 322 corresponds to the thickness dimension of the sheet "S" to
be utilized in with channel adapter 300. Channel adapter 300 is
adapted and configured to hold, optionally resiliently hold, a
sheet "S" therein, whereby first and second ribs 320, 322
frictionally engage respective surfaces of such sheet "S."
[0113] Due at least in part to the material of channel adapter 300,
the dimensional, positional, deflection, and/or other
characteristics of ones of first and second ribs 320, 322, channel
adapter 300 is adapted and configured to enable a user to e.g.
suitably easily insert sheet "S" into the adapter 300, whilst the
adapter relatively resists removal of sheet "S" therefrom.
[0114] The outer dimensions of channel adapter 300, such as the
distance between the outwardly facing surfaces of sidewalls 310 and
315, correspond in magnitude to the opening dimension(s) of ones of
channels 220B, 222B, 230B and 232B. In otherwords, channel adapter
300 fits in, preferably fits snugly in, ones of channels 220B,
222B, 230B and 232B, as desired.
[0115] As one example, ones of channels 220B, 222B, 230B and 232B
define an opening dimension of about 0.3 inch, optionally about
0.28 inch. Correspondingly, channel adapter 300 defines an outer
width dimension of less than about 0.3 inch, optionally less than
about 0.28 inch, e.g. 0.27 inch.
[0116] FIGS. 11C and 11D illustrate alternative embodiments of
channel adapter 300. The channel adapters 300 of FIGS. 11C and 11D
are the analogous to those of FIGS. 11A and 11B, yet first include
an additional rib extending from each sidewall. In other words, the
embodiments of FIGS. 11A and 11B have a pair of ribs extending
inwardly from each sidewall, toward each other.
[0117] Accordingly, a user can select from a wide variety of
suitable materials for sheet "S," wherein the various sheets "S"
define a wide variety of corresponding thickness dimensions. In
other words, if a user determines that sheet "S" will be held in a
non-desirably loosely manner in ones of channels 220B, 222B, 230B
and 232B, then the user can use channel adapter 300 in combination
with sheet "S" so that the holding relationship is effectuated
between the interface of the ones of channels 220B, 222B, 230B and
232B interfacing with and holding one or more channel adapters 300,
which in turn interfaces with and holds sheet "S."
[0118] Sheet "S" is selected from a variety of suitable materials,
which include, but are not limited to, e.g. wire mesh materials,
clear, opaque, or other acrylic materials, glass materials,
tempered and/or other safety glass materials, wooden materials,
polymeric materials, and/or other suitable sheet materials which
provide, at least in part, the desired enclosure characteristics
and aesthetic characteristics which correspond to the particular
intended use of enclosure 1.
[0119] Corner member 140 is preferably made from polymeric
material(s) and, in general, is a piece of connecting hardware
which appears square in profile when viewed from above.
[0120] Corner member 140 includes first and second corner walls
405, 410, respectively.
[0121] Corner walls 405, 410 are laterally spaced from each other
and lie on planes which are generally parallel to each other.
[0122] Visible in FIG. 13, corner member 140 has a generally
"L-shaped" cavity, namely cavity "C" which extends thereinto. The
lateral sides of cavity "C" are generally defined by portions of
the inwardly facing surfaces of corner walls 405 and 410.
[0123] First slot 442 is adjacent a first outer side surface of
corner member 140 and in the complete assemblage of panel assembly
100, provides a passage between the respective ones of channels
220A, 222A, 230A, 232A, and cavity "C." Second slot 444 is adjacent
a second outer side surface of corner member 140, and provides a
passage between respective other ones of channel 220A, 222A, 230A,
232A, and cavity "C."
[0124] Slots 442 and 444 are "less deep" than are the respective,
adjacent, outer channels 220A, 222A, 230A, 232A. Accordingly, in
some embodiments, the corner members 140, and not the elongate
members 120, 122, 130, and 132, actually sit on, slide upon, and
interface with, the frame of cage, e.g. rail "R."
[0125] In other words, slidable panel assemblies 100A, 100B, 100C,
100D, 100E, in general, only interface with the rail which they
ride upon, rail "R" or others, through corner members 140, i.e. at
the leading and trailing ends of the panel assembly.
[0126] Thus, elongate members 120, 122, 130, and 132 are assembled
to respective corner members 140, each corner member 140 defines a
step, or other protrusion(s) such as gradual straight line or
arcuate ramps which generally define continuous, non-step-type
protrusions. The protrusion can be adjacent the end of elongate
members 120, 122, 130, and 132, and extends generally
perpendicularly upwardly from e.g. the end of the bottom channel
surface of channels 220A, 222A, 230A, 232A.
[0127] Corner members 140 are preferably made of a polymeric
material, whereby a relatively low coefficient of friction is
realized between the corner members and the "rail" which they ride
upon, which enables the doors to slide relatively easily, as
desired.
[0128] Bolts "B" extend through corner member 140 and threadedly
insert into e.g. corresponding threaded or unthreaded structures,
for example screw bosses or screw boss "SB" or other corresponding
structure in respective ones of elongate members 120, 122, 130, and
132, thereby mechanically attaching the elongate member to the
corner member 140.
[0129] Cavity "C" is adapted and configured to enable a user to
assemble the elongate members 120, 122, 130, and 132 to corner
member 140 by way of bolts "B." Cavity "C" further enables a user
to later access bolts "B" in the complete assemblage of the
slidable panel assemblies 100A, 100B, 100C, 100D, 100E.
[0130] FIG. 14 shows corner member 140, of FIG. 13, rotated
approximately 180 degrees and devoid of other cooperating
structures, to show the sides which interface respective ones of
elongate members 120, 122, 130, and 132. As visible in FIG. 14,
corner member 140 includes first and second mounting structures
which enable bolts "B" to secure elongate members 120, 122, 130,
and 132 thereto. Namely, corner member 140 includes bolt receiving
bore 446 and bolt receiving slot 448.
[0131] Bolt receiving bore 446 has a through bore, visible in FIG.
14, and a counter-bore portion, visible in FIG. 13 and also
illustrated in FIG. 15. The counter bore of bolt receiving bore 446
provides a shoulder which interfaces the forward facing portion of
the head of bolt "B" and enables the end surface of bolt "B" to sit
flush or sub-flush into the corner member 140.
[0132] Bolt receiving slot 448, similar to counter-bore portion of
bore 446, provides a shoulder-type structure which interfaces the
forward facing portion of the head of bolt "B." In addition, bolt
receiving slot 448 enables a user to partially secure a bolt to
ones of elongate members 120, 122, 130, and 132, and then slide
into and thereby engage the corner member 140 with the bolt.
[0133] Referring specifically to FIG. 1C, various slidable panel
assemblies 100A, 100B, 100C, 100D, 100E, within a single enclosure
1, namely animal housing enclose 10C, can serve different
functions.
[0134] As one example, in some embodiments, ones of slidable panel
assemblies 100A and 100B function as door-type structures,
permitting entrance into and egress from enclosure 1. As another
example, in some embodiments, ones of slidable panel assemblies
100A, 100B, 100C, 100D, 100E function as floor-type structures.
Exemplary of such floor-type structures is bottom wall 20,
illustrated in FIG. 1C, or other ones of slidable panel assemblies
100A, 100B, 100C, 100D, 100E.
[0135] The user selects, for example, different sheet materials for
sheet "S" based at least in part on the particular enclosure
component that the respective slidable panel assembly defines.
Accordingly, referring again to the embodiment of FIG. 1C, slidable
panels assemblies 100A and 100B, as door-type structures, include
e.g. a sheet "S" made from a clear acrylic material.
[0136] Regarding floor-type structures in animal housing enclosures
10C, it is understood that the floor is adapted and configured,
e.g. suitably strong and durable, to support the load provided by
the body weight of the animal housed therein. Also in such
embodiments, sheet "S" is preferably made from a wire mesh
material. The mesh material permits fecal material, urine, and or
other excrement to pass therethrough. The excreta, which pass
through floor 20, are ultimately captured in a tray below the
floor.
[0137] Floor 20 includes, as desired, a single slidable panel
assembly, or a panel assembly which includes a plurality of
adjacent slidable panels. In multiple floor panel embodiments, the
facing edges of the separate panels are supported by e.g. a common
floor support member such as a bracket or receiver, e.g. various
L-shaped brackets, T-shaped brackets, channel brackets, or
otherwise.
[0138] Embodiments which utilize various slidable panel assemblies
100A, 100B, 100C, 100D, 100E in a horizontal position, for example,
as floor 20 (FIG. 1C) or various shelves (FIGS. 4A, 4B), the
slidable panel assembly is suitably supported by ones of various
receiving structures. Suitable receiving structures support the
load provided by the slidable panel assembly 100A, 100B, 100C,
100D, 100E and articles thereupon, as enable the slidable panel
assembly to e.g. sliding interface therewith.
[0139] In some embodiments, the slidable floor or shelf, defined by
ones of slidable panel assemblies 100A, 100B, 100C, 100D, 100E, is
slidably actuatable with respect to the remainder of enclosure 1,
yet generally resists removal therefrom. In such embodiments, the
slidable panel assembly 100A, 100B, 100C, 100D, 100E is mounted to
enclosure 1 by way of, for example, ball bearing roller slides, or
other suitable well-known slide-type mounting hardware.
[0140] In some embodiments, the slidable floor or shelf, defined by
ones of slidable panel assemblies 100A, 100B, 100C, 100D, 100E, is
slidably actuatable with respect to the remainder of enclosure 1,
and is readily removal therefrom. In such embodiments, the panel
assembly is mounted to the reminder of enclosure 1 by way of, for
example, various bracket mechanisms which permit slidable movement
of slidable panel assemblies 100A, 100B, 100C, 100D, 100E.
Exemplary of suitable bracket mechanisms include lateral hangers
"LH" which are illustrated in FIGS. 16A, 16B, and 16C.
[0141] Each of lateral hangers "LH" has a lower support rail which
extends along the length of elongate member 20 and faces the other
respective lateral hanger "LH." An uppermost portion of lateral
hangers "LH" connects the hanger to the remainder of enclosure 1,
by way of, for example, a snap-lock interface with a cooperating
component of enclosure 1 (FIG. 16C).
[0142] Accordingly, when a user inserts e.g. floor 20 into animal
enclosure 10C, the support rails of hangers "LH" insert into and
interface with the outwardly facing channels of corner members 140
and respective ones of channels 220A, 222A, 230A, 232A.
[0143] In other words, the upwardly facing surface of each support
rail hanger "LH" slidingly interfaces with and supports the lower
facing surface of the upper flange, which defines the uppermost
portion of the outwardly facing channel of the respective elongate
member 120, 122, 130, and 132 and/or corner member 140.
[0144] To assemble slidable panel assemblies 100A, 100B, 100C,
100D, 100E, the user first gathers the various components e.g.
elongate members 120, 122, 130, and 132, corner members 140, bolts
"B," and/or other suitable hardware. The user next aligns bolt
receiving bore 446 with the threaded receiving structure of the
respective elongate members 120, 122, 130, and 132. Then, the user
inserts a bolt "B" through bolt receiving bore 446 and tightens it
into the receiving structure, such as screw boss "SB", securing the
respective elongate members 120, 122, 130, and 132 against a first
side of the corner member 140.
[0145] Next, the user partially tightens a bolt "B" into a
corresponding receiving structure, such as screw boss "SB" in
another one of elongate members 120, 122, 130, and 132. Then, the
user engages a second side of corner member 140 with the partially
tightened bolt by sliding the bolt receiving slot 448 over the
partially tightened bolt. Finally, the user tightens such bolt,
thereby securing such other elongate members 120, 122, 130, and 132
to the corner member 140. These processes are repeated, as needed,
so as to arrive at the complete assemblage of slidable panel
assemblies 100A, 100B, 100C, 100D, 100E.
[0146] Appropriate metallic materials for components of enclosure 1
include, but are not limited to, anodized aluminum, aluminum,
steel, stainless steel, titanium, magnesium, brass, and their
respective alloys. Common industry methods of forming such metallic
materials include casting, forging, shearing, bending, machining,
riveting, welding, powdered metal processing, extruding and
others.
[0147] Non-metallic materials suitable for components of enclosure
1, e.g. corner members 140 and others, are various polymeric
compounds, such as for example and without limitation, various of
the polyolefins, such as a variety of the polyethylenes, e.g. high
density polyethylene, or polypropylenes. There can also be
mentioned as examples such polymers as polyvinyl chloride and
chlorinated polyvinyl chloride copolymers, various of the
polyamides, polycarbonates, and others.
[0148] For any polymeric material employed in structures of the
invention, any conventional additive package can be included such
as, for example and without limitation, slip agents, anti-block
agents, release agents, anti-oxidants, fillers, and plasticizers,
to control e.g. processing of the polymeric material as well as to
stabilize and/or otherwise control the properties of the finished
processed product, also to control hardness, bending resistance,
and the like.
[0149] Common industry methods of forming such polymeric compounds
will suffice to form non-metallic components of enclosure 1.
Exemplary, but not limiting, of such processes are the various
commonly-known plastics converting processes.
[0150] Enclosure 1 is preferably manufactured as individual
components, and the individual components assembled as
sub-assemblies, including but not limited to, the enclosure frame,
stand 15, slidable panel assemblies 100A, 100B, 100C, 100D, 100E,
and/or others. Each of the aforementioned sub-assemblies is then
assembled to respective other ones of the sub-assemblies, to
develop enclosure 1.
[0151] Those skilled in the art will now see that certain
modifications can be made to the apparatus and methods herein
disclosed with respect to the illustrated embodiments, without
departing from the spirit of the instant invention. And while the
invention has been described above with respect to the preferred
embodiments, it will be understood that the invention is adapted to
numerous rearrangements, modifications, and alterations, and all
such arrangements, modifications, and alterations are intended to
be within the scope of the appended claims.
[0152] To the extent the following claims use means plus function
language, it is not meant to include there, or in the instant
specification, anything not structurally equivalent to what is
shown in the embodiments disclosed in the specification.
* * * * *