U.S. patent application number 13/075131 was filed with the patent office on 2011-10-06 for ballistic structural insulated panel.
Invention is credited to Robert Doherty, Jeff Mason, Patrick Redfern.
Application Number | 20110239851 13/075131 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 44147893 |
Filed Date | 2011-10-06 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110239851 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Mason; Jeff ; et
al. |
October 6, 2011 |
BALLISTIC STRUCTURAL INSULATED PANEL
Abstract
One or more embodiments contained herein disclose a structural
insulated panel having improved ballistics properties and methods
for using the same.
Inventors: |
Mason; Jeff; (US) ;
Redfern; Patrick; (US) ; Doherty; Robert;
(US) |
Family ID: |
44147893 |
Appl. No.: |
13/075131 |
Filed: |
March 29, 2011 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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61318749 |
Mar 29, 2010 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
89/36.02 ;
89/903; 89/904; 89/906; 89/908; 89/910; 89/917 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B32B 27/04 20130101;
B32B 27/32 20130101; B32B 2262/101 20130101; B32B 2307/54 20130101;
F41H 5/0457 20130101; B32B 9/005 20130101; B32B 13/12 20130101;
B32B 15/18 20130101; B32B 21/10 20130101; B32B 27/12 20130101; E04H
9/10 20130101; B32B 2260/028 20130101; B32B 2266/0214 20130101;
B32B 27/40 20130101; B32B 2419/04 20130101; B32B 27/065 20130101;
B32B 15/08 20130101; B32B 2266/04 20130101; B32B 9/045 20130101;
B32B 13/045 20130101; B32B 2262/0253 20130101; B32B 21/08 20130101;
B32B 2571/00 20130101; B32B 7/12 20130101; B32B 5/18 20130101; B32B
9/047 20130101; B32B 13/14 20130101; B32B 27/10 20130101; F41H
5/0428 20130101; B32B 2266/0228 20130101; B32B 2266/045 20130101;
B32B 2607/00 20130101; B32B 5/024 20130101; B32B 2307/732 20130101;
B32B 2471/00 20130101; B32B 2571/02 20130101; B32B 15/046 20130101;
B32B 2262/0269 20130101; B32B 15/20 20130101; B32B 29/02 20130101;
B32B 15/14 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
89/36.02 ;
89/903; 89/904; 89/917; 89/906; 89/910; 89/908 |
International
Class: |
F41H 5/04 20060101
F41H005/04 |
Claims
1. A ballistic panel comprising: a strike face; a first spall
section; a structural insulated panel; a second spall section; and
at least one decorative skin disposed on the strike face or the
second spall section; wherein the first spall section is disposed
on a first side of the structural insulated panel and the second
spall section is disposed on a second side of the structural
insulated panel.
2. The ballistic panel of claim 1, wherein the strike face
comprises a metal or a ceramic.
3. The ballistic panel of claim 2, wherein the strike face
comprises one of aluminum or steel.
4. The ballistic panel of claim 2, wherein the strike face
comprises one of alumina, silicon carbide, or boron carbide.
5. The ballistic panel of claim 1, wherein the first spall section
comprises at least one of: E-glass, R-glass, S-glass, Aramid,
UHMWPE, or polypropylene fiber and a polymer resin.
6. The ballistic panel of claim 1, wherein the second spall section
comprises at least one of: E-glass, R-glass, S-glass, Aramid,
UHMWPE, or polypropylene fiber and a polymer resin.
7. The ballistic panel of claim 1, wherein the structural insulated
panel comprises a first skin, a core, and a second skin.
8. The ballistic panel of claim 7, wherein the core comprises a
rigid polymer.
9. The ballistic panel of claim 8, wherein the rigid polymer
comprises polystyrene or polyurethane.
10. The ballistic panel of claim 7, wherein the first skin
comprises one or more of steel, aluminum, cement, plastic, or fiber
reinforced plastic.
11. The ballistic panel of claim 7, wherein the second skin
comprises one or more of steel, aluminum, cement, plastic, or fiber
reinforced plastic.
12. The ballistic panel of claim 7, wherein the core is disposed
between the first skin and the second skin.
13. The ballistic panel of claim 1, wherein the ballistic panel
comprises a V.sub.50 of at least 3300 fps.
14. A method of slowing a projectile comprising: providing a
ballistic panel comprising a strike face configured to engage a
spall section, a first spall section configured to engage a
structural insulated panel, a structural insulated panel, a second
spall section, and at least one decorative skin disposed on the
strike face and or the second spall section; absorbing an initial
impact of the projectile; tumbling the projectile in the structural
insulated panel; and slowing the projectile in the second spall
section.
15. The method of claim 14, further comprising ceasing motion of
the projectile in the second spall section.
16. A ballistic panel comprising: a strike face; a first spall
section; a structural insulated panel; a second spall section; and
wherein the first spall section is disposed on a first side of the
structural insulated panel and the second spall section is disposed
on a second side of the structural insulated panel.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C.
.sctn.119(e) of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/318,749 filed
on Mar. 29, 2010, titled "COMPOSITE PANELS WITH BALLISTIC
PROPERTIES," the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by
reference and made part of this specification.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Field
[0003] The disclosure relates to composite panels, structural
insulated panels and similar materials having ballistic and
blast-proof properties.
[0004] 2. Related Art
[0005] It can be advantageous to install materials having ballistic
and blast-proof properties on or in the walls (ceilings, floors,
etc.) of structures that may be subject to projectiles, ballistic
or blast conditions. Composite ballistic panels can be used to
provide strength and improved safety and protection in these
circumstances.
SUMMARY
[0006] Example embodiments described herein have several features,
no single one of which is solely responsible for their desirable
attributes. Without limiting the scope of the inventions expressed
by the claims, some of the advantageous features will now be
summarized.
[0007] In one embodiment, a ballistic panel is disclosed, the
ballistic panel comprises: a strike face, a first spall section, a
structural insulated panel, a second spall section, and at least
one decorative skin disposed on the strike face or the second spall
section, wherein the first spall section is disposed on a first
side of the structural insulated panel and the second spall section
is disposed on a second side of the structural insulated panel.
[0008] In another embodiment, a method of slowing a projectile is
disclosed, the method comprising: providing a ballistic panel
comprising a strike face configured to engage a spall section, a
first spall section configured to engage a structural insulated
panel, a structural insulated panel, a second spall section, and at
least one decorative skin disposed on the strike face or the second
spall section, absorbing an initial impact of the projectile,
tumbling the projectile in the structural insulated panel, and
slowing the projectile in the second spall section.
[0009] In accordance to one embodiment, a ballistic panel is
disclosed, the ballistic panel comprises: a strike face, a first
spall section, a structural insulated panel, a second spall
section, wherein the first spall section is disposed on a first
side of the structural insulated panel and the second spall section
is disposed on a second side of the structural insulated panel.
[0010] In describing various embodiments of the present
application, reference will be made herein to FIGS. 1-8 of the
drawings, in which like numbers refer to like features unless
indicated otherwise.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] The following drawings and the associated descriptions are
provided to illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure and do
not limit the scope of the claims.
[0012] FIG. 1 depicts a schematic view of an example of a ballistic
panel system.
[0013] FIG. 2 depicts an exploded view of an example composite
ballistic structural insulated panel.
[0014] FIG. 3 illustrates an exploded view of another example
composite ballistic structural insulated panel or "BSIP"
incorporating a combined strike face and first spall section.
[0015] FIG. 4 shows an exploded view of yet another example
composite ballistic structural insulated panel incorporating a
hybrid spall layer.
[0016] FIG. 5 illustrates an exploded view of yet another example
composite ballistic structural insulated panel incorporating a
hybrid spall layer.
[0017] FIG. 6 depicts an exploded view of yet another example
composite ballistic structural insulated panel.
[0018] FIG. 7 depicts an illustration of an example of a method of
manufacturing a ballistic structural insulated panel.
[0019] FIG. 8 depicts a chart demonstrating three example layups of
ballistic structural insulated panels and three comparative example
layups of ballistic panels.
[0020] FIG. 9 shows a table illustrating and comparing V.sub.50
testing data of the examples and comparative examples of FIG.
8.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0021] Although certain preferred embodiments and examples are
disclosed below, inventive subject matter extends beyond the
specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments
and/or uses of the invention, and to modifications and equivalents
thereof. Thus, the scope of the inventions herein disclosed is not
limited by any of the particular embodiments described below. For
example, in any method or process disclosed herein, the acts or
operations of the method or process may be performed in any
suitable sequence and are not necessarily limited to any particular
disclosed sequence. For purposes of contrasting various embodiments
with the prior art, certain aspects and advantages of these
embodiments are described. Not necessarily all such aspects or
advantages are achieved by any particular embodiment. Thus, for
example, various embodiments may be carried out in a manner that
achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as
taught herein without necessarily achieving other aspects or
advantages as may also be taught or suggested herein. The devices,
systems and methods discussed herein can be used anywhere,
including, for example, in military, police, civilian, or medical
structures.
[0022] Composite ballistic panels can comprise ballistic materials
that include high strength fibers, steel and ceramic.
[0023] Structural insulated panels or "SIPs" are a composite
building material. Generally they consist of an insulating layer of
foam sandwiched between two layers of structural material. SIPs
provide insulation and protection to a structure with a tighter
building envelope. SIPs may be used as floor, wall, or roof of a
structure. SIPs may be used in the construction of living units
such as permanent or temporary housing, mobile units such as cars,
or aerospace vehicles such as planes or helicopters.
[0024] In designing ballistic layups, it is important to understand
the relationship between weight, performance, and cost. Generally
speaking, as stronger, more effective materials are used to reduce
the weight of a particular solution, the cost increases. In
designing ballistic solutions, with the benefit of new fiber, weave
technologies, or resin matrices, it is possible to combine or
hybridize different materials in order to use a less expensive
material on the front of a panel as a "strike-face." The purpose of
the strike-face is to flatten the projectile and slow it down,
thereby allowing the stronger fibers at the back of panel to absorb
and disperse the energy. In an effective hybrid, a slight overall
gain in weight is balanced by a significant reduction in cost by
being able to reduce the amount of the more expensive material
used.
A. Introduction
[0025] The terms "structural insulated panel" or "structurally
insulated panel" or "SIP" are broadly interpreted herein and
comprise, without limitation, their customary and ordinary meaning
as well as any and all panels that consist of an insulating layer
sandwiched between at least two layers of structural material. SIPs
may be used for a variety of applications, but are generally used
as a composite building material. As a building material, SIPs may
be used as exterior wall, roof, floors, and foundation systems.
However, SIPs may also be used in other applications such as
aerospace, armored vehicles, military, police, civilian, medical,
and applications where improved safety and protection are desired.
SIPs generally comprise an inner insulating layer that may include
any suitable material such as polymer foam. For example, the core
of a SIP may be expanded polystyrene, extruded polystyrene or rigid
polyurethane. The core of a SIP may comprise a non-polymer foam
insulation such as sand, metal, ceramic, solid polymer resin, or
air. One or more outer layers of an SIP may include steel,
aluminum, cement board, fiber-reinforced plastic, or magnesium
oxide. Outer layers of a SIP may also comprise a material such as
metal, plywood, cement or oriented strand board. Generally
speaking, a SIP is incorporated as part of a building or structure
as it is constructed, and supports the building. However, in other
embodiments, a SIP may be installed into an existing structure.
[0026] As used herein, the term "strike face" is a broad term and
is to be given its ordinary and customary meaning to a person of
ordinary skill in the art (i.e., it is not to be limited to a
special or customized meaning) and includes, without limitation,
the entire thickness of the outermost layer of a ballistic panel.
The strike face may be covered with a decorative layer. A strike
face may be flat, planar, convex, concave, multi-faceted,
undulating, distressed, smooth--or it may have a different
geometry. A strike face may be formed of any suitable material.
Useful example materials include those that are hardened; for
example, they can be harder than the rest of the composite layers.
For example, a strike face may be made of various hardened metals
such as aluminum or steel. A strike face may also be formed of a
ceramic material such as alumina, silicon carbide, boron carbide,
and the like or a combination of materials. A strike face may also
be formed of a high resin content composite. Hybrids or
combinations of any of these and similar materials are also useful.
The general purpose of the strike face in a ballistic panel may be
to flatten and slow down an incoming projectile, thereby allowing
other materials in the panel to assist in absorbing and dispersing
the energy from the projectile. A strike face may consist of
several plies (e.g., layers) of materials or a strike face may only
consist of one ply (e.g., layer) of material. In some embodiments,
a strike face may comprise a hybrid panel comprising more than one
different type of material.
[0027] As used in this application, the term "spall section" or
"spall layer" is a broad term and is to be given its ordinary and
customary meaning to a person of ordinary skill in the art (i.e.,
it is not to be limited to a special or customized meaning) and
includes, without limitation, one or more layers in which a
projectile and/or projectile debris may distribute. When a
projectile contacts a target, the projectile may generally maintain
its shape or pieces of the projectile may be broken off as a result
of impact. A spall section may absorb energy provided by a
projectile or spall and it may redistribute the spall upon its
entry into the spall section. A spall section may function as a net
for incoming projectile or debris. Materials useful for "spall
layers" include those that have the following properties and/or
combinations of properties: fibrous, high tensile strength, some
resilience, etc. A spall section may be formed of any suitable
material including, but not limited to: woven or uni-directional
fibers including E-glass, R-glass, S-glass, fiberglass, aramid,
ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene ("UHMWPE") or a
polypropylene fiber utilizing thermoplastic or thermoset resin
systems. Common fiberglass types include E-glass
(alumino-borosilicate glass with less than 1 wt % alkali oxides,
mainly used for glass-reinforced plastics), R-glass (alumino
silicate glass without MgO and CaO with high mechanical
requirements), and S-glass (alumino silicate glass without CaO but
with high MgO content with high tensile strength). Aramid fibers
are a class of heat-resistant and strong synthetic fibers in which
the fiber-forming substance is a long-chain synthetic polyamide in
which at least 85% of the amide linkages, (--CO--NH--) are attached
directly to two aromatic rings. Aramid fibers are often used in
aerospace and military applications, such as for ballistic rated
body armor fabric, vehicle armor composites, and ballistic shields.
Well-known aramid fibers are sold under the trademarks KEVLAR,
TWARON and K-FLEX. Similarly, UHMWPE fibers are known for their
strength and abrasion resistance, and are commonly used in
ballistic protection and defense applications. These various fiber
materials are impregnated with resin, which can be any of the
following: petroleum-free phenolic resin, standard phenolic resin,
polyvinyl butyral (PVB) phenolic resin, polyethylene thermoplastic
resin, polypropylene thermoplastic resin, polyester thermoset
resin, and epoxy thermoset resin. A spall layer or section may
comprise one or more layers. A spall layer or section may also
comprise a hybrid layer consisting of at least two different types
of materials selected that may absorb energy provided by a
projectile or spall and it may redistribute the spall upon entry
into the spall section. A spall layer or section may consist of
several plies of materials or a spall layer or section may only
consist of one ply of material.
[0028] As used herein "decorative ballistic skin" or "decorative
outer skin" is defined broadly to mean a decorative layer comprised
of a material such as PAPERSTONE.RTM. that gives an aesthetically
pleasing appearance, but still maintains favorable ballistic
properties when subjected to ballistics testing. PAPERSTONE.RTM. is
a composite material that is made from 100% post-consumer recycled
paper manufactured by PanelTech Products, Inc. (Hoquiam, Wash.). It
consists of a petroleum-free phenolic resin (or "green resin")
impregnated paper product that when laminated under heat and
pressure, becomes a hard consolidated laminate. It is non-porous
and comes in a variety of colors. A decorative phenolic ballistic
skin may be disposed on the portion of a ballistic structural
insulated panel facing the potential direction of the ballistic or
blast threat. According to some embodiments, a decorative skin may
not provide significant ballistic properties and may perform a more
decorative function.
[0029] As used herein, the term "decorative interior skin" may be
broadly defined to mean a material that gives an aesthetically
pleasing appearance and may include phenolic PAPERSTONE.RTM.
material, a thermoplastic, a thin textured material, or wood. A
decorative phenolic ballistic skin may be disposed on the portion
of a ballistic structural insulated panel facing the interior of an
enclosure and provide a decorative finish to the interior of the
structure, improved fire resistance characteristics, or anti-viral
wall protection. A decorative skin may not provide significant
ballistic properties and may perform a more decorative function;
nevertheless, some layers and/or materials can include both
decorative and protective (e.g., ballistic) properties.
[0030] The term "skin" is broadly interpreted herein and comprise,
without limitation, any generally thin layer of material that
engages at least one other layer of material within. A skin may
serve to protect the layer or layers it engages from damage or
debris, and a skin may supply an aesthetically pleasing effect.
While it may be implied that a skin is a thinner layer, according
to some embodiments, a skin may have a greater thickness than a
layer not labeled as a skin.
[0031] As used herein, the term "projectile" is used broadly to
mean any type of material propelled towards the ballistic panel:
the objects or items propelled through the environment--often at
great speed--from which protection may be sought. For example,
projectiles may include bullets, ordnance, shrapnel, knives, glass
shards, materials that may be fragmented and violently displaced by
an explosion, portions of exploding armaments, metal slugs, and the
like. A projectile may also include debris from explosion caused by
vandalism, civil unrest, pranks, fireworks, bombs, pipe-bombs, or
other means of entering any structure. A projectile may stay in one
piece as it enters the BSIP, or it may break into fragments (e.g.,
as it enters the ballistic structural insulated panel.
[0032] Referring to FIG. 1, a ballistic panel is illustrated that
can have multiple layers (e.g., a first face layer 10, a function
layer 20, and a second face layer 30). This generalized example
demonstrates some aspects of the inventions herein described,
although often the functions described here can be combined (for
example, a functional layer can also be aesthetic or provide other
characteristics desirable in a face layer). A projectile can enter
the BSIP through first face layer 10, only to be slowed, stopped,
redirected, deformed, fragmented, dispersed, deflected, (or some
combination thereof), etc. by a function layer 20. A function layer
can include dynamic materials that harden or otherwise change in a
useful manner when they are stressed or otherwise subject to force
or pressure. Within function layer 20, two general steps may be
performed. Within the function layer 20, the projectile and any
projectile debris may be dispersed. The function layer 20 may also
slow and/or rotate the projectile and any projectile debris. These
two steps may be performed in the above mentioned order. They may
also be performed simultaneously within the function layer 20. The
steps may be performed in the reverse order as disclosed above.
[0033] FIG. 2 illustrates a ballistic structural insulated panel
("BSIP") 100. The BSIP comprises a first ballistic zone 110, a
second ballistic zone 120, and a third ballistic zone 130. The
first ballistic zone 110 faces outer threat area X. The second
ballistic zone 120 engages the first ballistic zone 110. The third
ballistic zone 130 engages the second ballistic zone 120. The third
ballistic zone 130 faces an interior I, which can be decorative. Of
course, the layers and zones described here (and throughout this
application) are not always present in all advantageous
embodiments. For example, a BSIP can still be effective although it
may not always have a separate decorative interior skin. For
example, the functional layers may themselves be so aesthetically
pleasing that no additional interior layer is deemed desirable.
[0034] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the first ballistic zone 110 can
comprise three layers. Decorative outer ballistic skin 111 engages
outer threat area X. Strike face 112 engages outer ballistic skin
111. First spall section 113 engages strike face 112.
[0035] The second ballistic zone 120 comprises SIP 121. SIP 121
engages first spall section 113. SIP 121 comprises three layers,
first SIP skin layer 122, core layer 123, and second SIP skin layer
124 as shown. First SIP skin layer 122 engages core layer 123.
Second SIP skin layer 124 engages core layer 123.
[0036] Third ballistic zone 130 comprises at least two layers and
engages second ballistic zone 120 at second SIP skin layer 124.
Third ballistic zone 130 comprises second spall layer 131. Second
spall layer 131 engages decorative interior skin 140. According to
other embodiments, the third ballistic zone 130 may comprise one or
more layers, and these layers may comprise one or more spall
layers. Decorative interior skin 140 engages interior I. Decorative
interior skin 140 may exhibit some favorable ballistics properties
or it may serve a more decorative function.
[0037] According to some embodiments, an additional layer of
adhesive (not illustrated) adheres the aforementioned layers to one
another within the BSIP. According to other embodiments, adhesive
is only incorporated between selected layers. For example, adhesive
may be inserted to improve adherence between two layers that lack
interfacial compatibility. The same type of adhesive may be used to
all layer incorporating adhesive. According to some other
embodiments, no adhesive may be used at all. Adhesives utilized may
include thermoplastic films, methyl methacrylate, epoxy resin, or
other suitable adhesive systems.
[0038] Although the BSIP 100 is shown as having a flat, planar
surface, other embodiments are contemplated in which BSIP 100 may
have concave and/or convex contours and/or sides that may coincide
with specific wall, door etc. conformations to which the BSIP 100
may be applied.
[0039] First ballistic zone 110 may be designed to absorb the
initial impact of a projectile and to flatten it as it enters the
BSIP. By flattening the projectile, the projectile affects a
broader cross sectional area of the BSIP that can distribute the
energy over a greater surface area. Most of the energy absorption
in first ballistic zone 110 may occur upon impact of the projectile
with strike face 112 and through utilizing the strength of the
material used in first spall section 113. According to some
embodiments, the first spall section 113 comprises a sacrificial
layer such as, for example, one or more plies of woven E-Glass. By
incorporating a less expensive sacrificial layer, cost of a BSIP
panel may be reduced since the layer may be sacrificial and serve,
in part, to absorb energy from the projectile and/or projectile
debris upon entering the spall section 113.
[0040] Second ballistic zone 120 may be designed to cause the
projectile to tumble if it enters into this section including SIP
121. Tumbling is broadly defined as the free movement and/or
rotation of a projectile, fragment, or other high velocity product
of the ballistic event. Because the core 123 of the SIP 121 has
less tensile strength than the first spall layer 123, the
projectile will undergo the tumbling effect. The second ballistic
zone 120 may utilize the air space, void, and/or less dense space
contained within the SIP to allow the projectile to tumble and yaw,
and thus create a larger profile to the second spall section 131.
The tumble effect also allows a greater cross section of the
projectile to enter into the third ballistic zone 130.
[0041] The third ballistic zone 130 may be designed to stop the
forward movement of the projectile by utilizing the tensile
strength of the fibers in the material used in this zone during the
stretching of the fiber to absorb the last of the energy of the
projectile. In some embodiments, a higher performing material such
as aramid fibers or oriented polyethylene fibers in thermoplastic
or thermoset polymer resin may be utilized for the high tensile
strength of the fibers in the resin matrix. The third ballistic
zone 130 may prevent backside deformation of the BSIP by absorbing
the energy of the projectile and debris and ceasing their movement
through the BSIP before it would start to exit the panel.
[0042] Outer threat area X generally refers to the area outside of
a space being protected by the BSIP. Outer threat area X may be
outdoors (for example, the exterior surface of a police station in
a volatile inner-city or a military's forward operating base), or
outer threat area X may be indoors (for example, the interior
surface of a shooting gallery or explosives laboratory). Interior I
refers to another side of the BSIP distinct from outer threat area
X. In general, in an embodiment it may be assumed that a projectile
will enter into the BSIP from outer threat area X, directly first
contacting decorative outer ballistic skin 111 as shown by arrow P.
A person or object to be protected by the BSIP panel may be
positioned on interior I instead of outer threat area X. In many
embodiments, a projectile following the path P will be slowed or
stopped in a more satisfactory fashion than a projectile following
the opposite path, entering the BSIP through interior I (not
illustrated). In other embodiments, the ability of the BSIP to slow
or stop a projectile is equivalent, whether the projectile enters
the B SIP from outer threat area X or interior I.
[0043] Decorative outer ballistic skin 111 may comprise any
suitable material and may comprise a material that gives an
aesthetically pleasing appearance, but still maintains favorable
ballistic properties when subjected to ballistics testing. One
example of a useful material that can meet this description is
PAPERSTONE.RTM.. PAPERSTONE.RTM. is a composite material that is
made from 100% post-consumer recycled paper manufactured by
PanelTech Products, Inc. (Hoquiam, Wash.). It consists of a
petroleum-free phenolic resin (or "green resin") impregnated paper
product that when laminated under heat and pressure, becomes a hard
consolidated laminate. Other suitable materials for decorative
outer ballistic skin 111 may include various thermoplastics and
thermoset polymers, reinforced polymers, gypsum, stone, wood,
brick, ceramic, or metal. The type of decorative coating may be
selected based on the application in which the panel is used. Thus
a material may be selected that fits the desired appearance of the
exterior using the BSIP 100. In some embodiments, the decorative
outer ballistic skin 111 also incorporates favorable ballistic
properties. In other embodiments, the outer ballistic skin 111
employs little to no ballistic properties.
[0044] Strike face 112 may comprise any suitable material that may
assist in absorbing the energy of an incoming projectile. The
strike face 112 may also affect the trajectory of an incoming
projectile or fragments of projectile. A strike face may be made of
such materials including, but not limited to: metals such as
aluminum or steel, ceramic such as alumina, silicon carbide, boron
carbide, or other such suitable materials, etc.
[0045] First spall section 113 may also comprise any suitable
material that may further assist in flattening and slowing a
projectile. Suitable materials for the first spall section 113
include, without limitation: woven or uni-directional E-glass,
R-glass, S-glass, Aramid (such as K-Flex.RTM. H provided by
TechFiber), UHMWPE (such as Dyneema.RTM. provided by DSM) or a
polypropylene fiber (such as Innegra.TM. S or I-Flex provided by
Tech Fiber) utilizing thermoplastic or thermoset resin systems. In
some embodiments, first spall section 113 may be a hybrid of two or
more of the spall materials. The first spall section may be
considered a sacrificial layer since it functions to absorb much of
the initial energy of a projectile and debris entering the BSIP.
Hence, in some embodiments, the first spall section may comprise a
less expensive material such as woven E-glass.
[0046] According to some embodiments, a strike face may be omitted,
and the first spall section 113 may act alone as the strike face.
In other embodiments where the strike face is omitted, the first
spall section 113 may act as a strike face in combination with the
outer decorative skin 111. One embodiment illustrating such
configuration is shown in FIG. 2.
[0047] SIP 121 may be comprised of at least two SIP outer skins
122,124 and core 123. Outer SIP skins 122, 124 may be comprised by
any such suitable material as steel, aluminum, cement board,
fiber-reinforced plastic, or magnesium oxide. SIP skins 122, 124
may be rigid. In some embodiments the outer SIP skins 122, 124 are
made of the same material. In other embodiments, the outer SIP
skins 122, 124 are made of different materials. The core 123 may
comprise polymer foam such as expanded polystyrene, extruded
polystyrene, or rigid polyurethane. In some embodiments (not
illustrated) the SIP 121 may only have one outer SIP skin and
engage one spall layer, or it may have no outer SIP skins and
directly engage both spall layers on either side of the SIP. An
example of a SIP may be a Greenix.TM. panel from SIP Supply.
[0048] Second spall section 131 may also comprise any suitable
material that may further assist in flattening and slowing the
projectile. Suitable materials for the second spall section 131
include, without limitation: woven or uni-directional E-glass,
R-glass, S-glass, Aramid, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene
("UHMWPE") (such as Dyneema.RTM. provided by DSM), or a
polypropylene fiber (such as Innegra.TM. S or I-Flex provided by
Tech Fiber) utilizing thermoplastic or thermoset resin systems. One
or more material comprising second spall section 131 may include
fibers and include a high tensile strength material. In some
embodiments, second spall section may be a hybrid of two or more of
the spall materials. In some embodiments, a higher performing
material such as aramid fibers or oriented polyethylene fibers in
thermoplastic or thermoset polymer resin may be utilized for the
high tensile strength of the fibers in the resin matrix. Second
spall section 131 may prevent backside deformation of the BSIP by
absorbing the energy of the projectile and debris and ceasing their
movement through the BSIP before it would start to exit the panel
or contact a decorative interior skin (if provided).
[0049] Decorative interior skin 140 may comprise any suitable
material such as phenolic PAPERSTONE.RTM. material, a
thermoplastic, gypsum, stone, a thin textured material, or wood. In
some embodiments, the inner decorative layer faces an indoors area
I, such as the inside of a house or the inside of a plane. Thus a
material may be selected that fits the desired appearance of the
room using the BSIP 100. In some embodiments, the inner decorative
layer 140 also incorporates favorable ballistic properties. In
other embodiments, the decorative interior skin 140 employs little
to no ballistic properties.
[0050] An exterior decorative skin, if provided, may have a
suitable thickness of 0.008-0.080 inches. In another embodiment, an
exterior decorative skin may have a thickness of 0.016-0.072
inches, 0.016-0.064 inches, 0.024-0.064 inches 0.040-0.064 inches,
or any other suitable thickness.
[0051] The strike face may comprise a total thickness of 0.10-1.50
inches. According to other embodiments, the strike face may measure
a suitable thickness such as 0.150-1.25 inches, 0.150-1.0 inches,
0.150-0.75 inches, 0.150-0.50 inches, 0.150-0.25 inches, or any
other suitable thickness.
[0052] In some embodiments, a first spall section may have a total
thickness of 0.035-1.0 inches. According to other embodiments, the
first spall section may be a suitable thickness such as 0.040-0.750
inches, 0.040-0.670 inches, 0.035-0.060 inches, 0.190-0.240 inches,
0.640-0.690 inches, or any other suitable thickness.
[0053] A SIP may comprise a total thickness of 2.0-6.0 inches.
According to some embodiments, the SIP may comprise a total
thickness of 2.0-5.0 inches, 2.0-4.6 inches, 2.5-4.6 inches, or any
other suitable thickness.
[0054] A second spall section may have a total thickness of
0.260-1.0 inches. According to some embodiments, the second spall
section may measure a suitable thickness such as 0.040-0.750
inches, 0.040-0.670 inches, 0.240-0.310 inches, 0.280-0.320 inches,
0.630-0.690 inches, or any other suitable thickness.
[0055] A decorative interior skin if provided, may have a suitable
thickness of 0.008-0.080 inches. In another embodiment, an inner
decorative layer may have a thickness of 0.016-0.072 inches,
0.016-0.064 inches, 0.024-0.064 inches 0.040-0.064 inches, or any
other suitable thickness.
[0056] The total thickness of a BSIP may comprise 2.5-8.0 inches in
thickness. According to some embodiments, the thickness of a BSIP
may comprise 2.0-7.5 inches, 2.0-7.0 inches, 2.0-6.0 inches,
2.0-5.0 inches, 2.0-4.0 inches, or any other suitable thickness.
The dimensions of a BSIP may be uniform for ease of installation,
and may be manufactured with a length by width dimension of 22
inches by 96 inches to 48 inches by 96 inches or any other suitable
dimensions.
[0057] Although the BSIP 100 is shown as a flat, planar surface,
other embodiments are contemplated in which BSIP 100 may have
geometries that may better protect a given target. For example, in
some embodiments (not illustrated), one or more spall section may
be disposed at an angle to better slow a projectile entering the
BSIP.
[0058] According to another embodiment, one or more plies of
material comprising any of the layers may be disposed at a 0/90
orientation. According to some embodiments, the adjacent layers or
adjacent sections are disposed at a 0/90 orientation.
B. Detailed Descriptions of Non-Limiting Embodiments
[0059] Methods and systems for use with manufacturing, assembling,
and using composite ballistic structural insulated panels will now
be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0060] Referring now to FIG. 3, an embodiment of a composite
multilayer ballistic structural insulated panel 200 is illustrated.
The BSIP comprises a first ballistic zone 210, a second ballistic
zone 220, and a third ballistic zone 230. The first ballistic zone
210 faces outer threat X. The second ballistic zone 220 engages the
first ballistic zone 210. The third ballistic zone 230 engages the
second ballistic zone 220. The third ballistic zone 230 faces an
interior I.
[0061] FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment with a first ballistic zone
210 that comprises only two layers. Decorative outer skin 211
engages outer threat side X. First spall section 212 engages
decorative outer skin 211. Decorative outer skin 211 may exhibit
some favorable ballistics properties or it may serve a more
decorative function.
[0062] Second ballistic zone 220 comprises SIP 221. SIP 221 engages
first spall section 213. SIP 221 comprises three layers, first SIP
skin layer 222, core layer 223, and second SIP skin layer 224 as
shown. First SIP skin layer 222 engages core layer 223. Second SIP
skin layer 224 engages core layer 223.
[0063] Third ballistic zone 230 comprises two layers and engages
second ballistic zone 220 at second SIP skin layer 224. Third
ballistic zone 230 comprises second spall layer 231. Second spall
layer 231 engages decorative interior skin 240. Decorative interior
skin 240 may exhibit some favorable ballistics properties or it may
serve a more decorative function.
[0064] Referring now to FIG. 4, another embodiment of a composite
multilayer ballistic structural insulated panel 300 is illustrated.
The BSIP comprises a first ballistic zone 310, a second ballistic
zone 320, and a third ballistic zone 330. The first ballistic zone
310 faces outer threat X. The second ballistic zone 320 engages the
first ballistic zone 310. The third ballistic zone 330 engages the
second ballistic zone 320. The third ballistic zone 330 faces an
interior I.
[0065] As illustrated in FIG. 4, according to another embodiment,
first ballistic zone 310 comprises four layers. Decorative outer
skin 311 engages outer threat side X. Strike face 312 engages
decorative outer ballistic skin 311. As shown in FIG. 4, the first
spall section may comprise at least two first hybrid layers 313a
and 313b. First spall hybrid layer 313a engages strike face 312.
Second spall hybrid layer 313b engages first spall hybrid layer
313a. Decorative outer skin 311 may exhibit some favorable
ballistics properties or it may serve a more decorative
function.
[0066] First spall hybrid layer 313a and second spall hybrid layer
313b may comprise one spall layer material each, or they may
comprise multiple different layers. An appropriate material may be
selected to achieve desired cost of the BSIP materials, weight, and
blast performance.
[0067] Second ballistic zone 320 comprises SIP 321. SIP 321 engages
second spall hybrid layer 313b. SIP 321 comprises three layers,
first SIP skin layer 322, core layer 323, and second SIP skin layer
324 as shown. First SIP skin layer 322 engages core layer 323.
Second SIP skin layer 324 engages core layer 323.
[0068] As illustrated, third ballistic zone 330 comprises two
layers and engages second ballistic zone 320 at second SIP skin
layer 324. Third ballistic zone 330 comprises second spall layer
331. Second spall layer 331 engages decorative interior skin 340.
Second spall layer 331 engages decorative interior skin 340.
According to other embodiments, the third ballistic zone 330 may
comprise one or more layers, and these layers may comprise one or
more spall layers. Decorative interior skin 340 engages interior I.
Decorative interior skin 340 may exhibit some favorable ballistics
properties or it may serve a more decorative function.
[0069] FIG. 5 illustrates an embodiment of a composite multilayer
ballistic structural insulated panel 400. The BSIP comprises a
first ballistic zone 410, a second ballistic zone 420, and a third
ballistic zone 430. The first ballistic zone 410 faces outer threat
X. The second ballistic zone 420 engages the first ballistic zone
410. The third ballistic zone 430 engages the second ballistic zone
420. The third ballistic zone 430 faces an interior I.
[0070] As illustrated in FIG. 5 first ballistic zone 410 comprises
three layers. Decorative outer ballistic skin 411 engages outer
threat side X. Strike face 412 engages decorative outer ballistic
skin 411. First spall layer 413 engages strike face 412. Decorative
outer skin 411 may exhibit some favorable ballistics properties or
it may serve a more decorative function.
[0071] Second ballistic zone 420 comprises SIP 421. SIP 421 engages
first spall layer 413. SIP 421 comprises three layers, first SIP
skin layer 422, core layer 423, and second SIP skin layer 424 as
shown. First SIP skin layer 422 engages core layer 423. Second SIP
skin layer 424 engages core layer 423.
[0072] As illustrated, third ballistic zone 430 comprises three
layers and engages second ballistic zone 420 at second SIP skin
layer 424. Third ballistic zone 430 comprises second spall section
comprising second spall hybrid layers 431a, 431b and decorative
interior skin 440. According to the illustrated embodiment, the
second spall section may comprise at least two first hybrid layers
431a and 431b. First spall hybrid layer 431a engages second SIP
skin layer 424. Second spall hybrid layer 431b engages first spall
hybrid layer 431a. Second spall hybrid layer 431b engages
decorative interior skin 440. Decorative interior skin 440 engages
interior I. Decorative interior skin 440 may exhibit some favorable
ballistics properties or it may serve a more decorative
function.
[0073] FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment of a composite multilayer
ballistic structural insulated panel 500. The BSIP comprises a
first ballistic zone 510, a second ballistic zone 520, and a third
ballistic zone 530. The first ballistic zone 510 faces outer threat
X. The second ballistic zone 520 engages the first ballistic zone
510. The third ballistic zone 530 engages the second ballistic zone
520.
[0074] As illustrated in FIG. 6, according to another embodiment,
first ballistic zone 510 comprises only two layers. Strike face 512
engages outer threat side X. First spall section 513 engages strike
face 512.
[0075] Second ballistic zone 520 comprises SIP 521. SIP 521 engages
first spall section 513. SIP 521 comprises three layers, first SIP
skin layer 522, core layer 523, and second SIP skin layer 524 as
shown. First SIP skin layer 522 engages core layer 523. Second SIP
skin layer 524 engages core layer 523.
[0076] Third ballistic zone 530 comprises one layer and engages
second ballistic zone 520 at second SIP skin layer 524. Third
ballistic zone 530 comprises second spall layer 531. Second spall
layer 531 engages second SIP skin layer 524.
[0077] Other orientations of decorative layers, spall layers, and
SIP layers are contemplated by this disclosure.
Method of Manufacturing
[0078] A nonlimiting method for manufacturing a B SIP is described
herewith. The manufacturing of the B SIP occurs in several steps. A
SIP panel is manufactured by a SIP manufacturer and purchased as
commercial item as is. One example of such SIP is the Greenix.TM.
Polyurethane Panel provided by SIP Supply.
[0079] A BSIP as illustrated, for example, in FIG. 2 may be
manufactured in one to three lamination steps depending on the
embodiment and referred to as the Exterior Panel. Panels may be
laminated using heat and pressure in a either a hydraulic
lamination process or autoclave consolidation process to adhere the
layers comprising the first ballistic zone and the second ballistic
zone together. Individual layers of a BSIP may be adhered to each
other using the resin system inherent as the resin matrix in the
material, or with a separate adhesive system. The adhesive system
may comprise a suitable adhesive such as thermoplastic films,
methyl methacrylate, epoxy resin, or other suitable adhesive
systems such as Nolax thermoplastic films, methyl methacrylate by
Devcon, and epoxy adhesives resins by Daubert or others.
[0080] The second interior panel portion of a BSIP comprising the
third ballistic zone are laminated in one to three steps depending
on the embodiment and referred to as the Interior Panel. Panels are
laminated used heat and pressure in a either a hydraulic lamination
process or autoclave consolidation process. Individual portions of
the panel may be adhered to each other using the resin system
inherent as the resin matrix in the material or as a separate
adhesive system.
[0081] Once the Interior and Exterior panels are laminated and cut
to size, they are adhered to the SIP using a variety of adhesives
depending on the SIP Skin material. The adhesive system may
comprise a suitable adhesive such as thermoplastic films, methyl
methacrylate, epoxy resin, or other suitable adhesive systems. In
some embodiments, the Interior and Exterior panels are adhered to
the SIP simultaneously. In other embodiments, the Interior and
Exterior panels are adhered to the SIP one at a time.
[0082] According to some embodiments, and as illustrated in FIG. 7,
the Interior and Exterior panels are adhered to the SIP by a
cleating system 600. In a cleating system 600, a first set of
cleats 601a, 601b is attached to both the Exterior 615 and Interior
(not illustrated) faces of the SIP panel 610. A second cleat or
cleats is attached to an Interior panel (not illustrated). A third
cleat or cleats 602a, 602b is attached to an Exterior panel 620.
The cleats are then interlocked to one another, thus attaching the
Interior and Exterior panels to the SIP and forming the BSIP.
[0083] According to some embodiments, the BSIP is formed by
mechanical means such as screws, fasteners, braces, plastic skins,
and the like. The Interior and Exterior panels, once formed
individually, may be mechanically attached by mechanical means.
[0084] The above mentioned methods of manufacturing BSIP panels may
be performed alone, or any combination of the steps above may be
performed to form a BSIP panel. For example, an Interior panel may
be mounted on an interior-facing face of a SIP by a cleating
system, while the Exterior panel may be mounted on the
exterior-facing face of a SIP by an adhesive system.
Method of Protecting a Structure
[0085] Once BSIPs are produced, they may be installed into various
applications to provide ballistic protection. According to an
embodiment, the BSIP may be held together within a structure by a
suitable adhesive system or a cleating system or a mechanical
method using suitable fasteners and the like.
[0086] BSIP panels may be incorporated into permanent,
semi-permanent, or temporary structures. In some embodiments, BSIP
panels may be utilized for a rapidly deployable solution for a
temporary structure and/or a solution for a temporary structure
that may be rapidly taken down that also incorporate ballistic
properties. A structure built with a BSIP panel such as those
described in this application may be deployed via helicopter or
DROPS vehicle and assembled with one simple hand tool.
C. Examples 1-3
Ballistics Testing
[0087] Various embodiments of the BSIP and other comparable
ballistic panels were provided and underwent ballistics testing so
as to determine the performance of various panels. The BSIP
parameters and performance measurements are described in Examples
1-3 below. In Examples 1-3, BSIPs comprising multiple layers as
described in various figures and disclosures of this application
were used.
Performance Evaluation Methods
[0088] The National Institute of Justice provides standards that
specify acceptable ballistic performance criteria for materials
designed to stop ballistic threats in different calibers. The
standard lists the velocity of each projectile at which the
material must be able to stop 5 consecutive rounds. Level IIIA
references the criteria for .44 caliber and 9 mm projectiles. Level
III references the criteria for 7.62 caliber projectiles.
[0089] The V.sub.50 Ballistic Test for Armor is a common method for
determining the relative performance of a given material. In the
test, an initial shot is fired and the velocity of the projectile
is recorded in compliance with factors of the specification such as
distance of muzzle to target and muzzle to velocity measuring
device. If the shot penetrates the material, a second shot is taken
after adjusting the amount of powder in the casing to produce a
slightly lower velocity. If the shot is stopped by the material,
powder is increased for the second shot to produce a slightly
higher velocity. This procedure is repeated until a tight range of
velocities are recorded, some with penetration, some without. An
average velocity is calculated using an equal number of
penetrations and captures and reported as the V.sub.50 velocity (an
indication of a velocity at which 50% of the projectiles fired at
this speed would penetrate and 50% would be stopped). By using this
method, a performance indication of the material can be determined
against a specification or against another material.
[0090] All testing was done using a V.sub.50 ballistic test in
accordance with MIL-STD-662F-V50 BALLISTIC TEST FOR ARMOR by a
certified testing lab (Chesapeake Testing, 121 Bata Boulevard,
Belcamp, Va. 21017). All panels were tested with a 7.62 mm.times.51
M80 ball in accordance with MIL-STD-662F relating to V.sub.50
ballistic testing.
[0091] Examples 1-3 and Comparative Examples 1-3 are described
below and descriptions and properties of the Examples and
Comparative Examples are illustrated in FIG. 8.
Example 1
[0092] Example 1 (LC-1103) utilized the configuration disclosed by
FIG. 5 and incorporated 8 plies of a decorative material, a 4 mm
thick ceramic strike face, and 2 plies of E-Glass spall layer on
the front exterior face of a SIP panel. Adhered to the back side of
the SIP panel was a hybrid spall layer of 13 plies of 0/90 oriented
polypropylene fibers (Innegra.TM. S from Tech Fiber) and 28 plies
of 0/90 aramid fibers (TechFiber) in polyethylene resin matrices.
Two plies of a decorative material formed the interior decorative
layer of the BSIP.
[0093] Example 1 exhibited an areal density of 5.5 pounds per
square foot ("psf"). Surprisingly, Example 1 demonstrated a
V.sub.50 of 3310 feet per second ("fps").
Comparative Example 1
[0094] Comparative Example 1 (LC-1330) utilized the configuration
disclosed by Example 1, but without the SIP panel. LC-1330
incorporated 8 plies of a decorative material, a 4 mm thick ceramic
strike face, 2 plies of E-Glass spall layers, a hybrid spall liner
of 13 plies of 0/90 oriented polypropylene fibers (Innegra.TM. S
from Tech Fiber) and 28 plies of 0/90 aramid fibers (TechFiber) in
polyethylene resin matrices. Two plies of a decorative material
formed the interior decorative layer of the panel.
[0095] Comparative Example 1 exhibited an areal density of 5.5 psf.
Comparative Example 1 demonstrated a V.sub.50 of 2183 fps.
Example 2
[0096] Example 2 (LC-1104) utilized the configuration disclosed by
FIG. 2 and incorporated 8 plies of a decorative material, a 4 mm
thick ceramic strike face, and 10 plies of woven roving E-glass in
a phenolic resin matrix as a spall layer on the exterior face of a
SIP panel. Adhered to the back side of the SIP panel was a second
spall layer of 15 plies of woven roving E-glass in a phenolic resin
matrix. Two plies of a decorative material formed the interior
decorative layer of the BSIP.
[0097] Example 2 exhibited an areal density of 9.3 psf.
Surprisingly, Example 2 demonstrated a V.sub.50 of 3666 fps.
Comparative Example 2
[0098] Comparative Example 2 (LC-1328) utilized the configuration
disclosed by Example 2, but without the SIP panel. Comparative
Example 2 incorporated 8 plies of a decorative material, a 4 mm
thick ceramic strike face, and 25 plies of woven roving E-glass in
a phenolic resin matrix as a spall layer. Two plies of a decorative
material formed the interior decorative layer of the panel.
[0099] Comparative Example 2 exhibited an areal density of 9.3 psf.
Comparative Example 2 demonstrated a V.sub.50 of 2420 fps.
Example 3
[0100] Example 3 (LC-1105) utilized the configuration disclosed by
FIG. 3 and incorporated 8 plies of a decorative material and 33
plies of woven roving E-glass in a phenolic resin matrix as a
combined strike face and spall layer on the exterior face of a SIP
panel. Adhered to the back side of the SIP panel was a second spall
layer of 32 plies of woven roving E-glass in a phenolic resin
matrix. Two plies of a decorative material formed the interior
decorative layer of the B SIP. The incorporation of several plies
of E-glass may beneficially reduce the cost of the BSIP system by
40-50%.
[0101] Example 3 exhibited an areal density of 14.7 psf.
Surprisingly, Example 3 demonstrated a V.sub.50 of 3643 fps.
Comparative Example 3
[0102] Comparative Example 3 (LC-1329) utilized the configuration
disclosed by Example 3, but without the SIP panel. Comparative
Example 3 incorporated 8 plies of a decorative material and 65
plies of woven roving E-glass in a phenolic resin matrix as a spall
layer. Two plies of a decorative material formed the interior
decorative layer of the panel.
[0103] Comparative Example 3 exhibited an areal density of 14.7
psf. Comparative Example 3 demonstrated a V.sub.50 of 2983 fps.
Testing Results
[0104] The results of the comparative testing are illustrated in
FIG. 9.
[0105] The results of the testing performed, indicates a
performance increase of from 22% to 54%. This performance increase
equated to an increase in V.sub.50 performance of 660 fps (feet per
second) to 1246 fps.
[0106] As apparent from the above description, the features and
attributes of the specific figures, examples, and/or embodiments
disclosed herein may be combined in different ways to form
additional examples or embodiments, all of which fall within the
scope of the present disclosure. For example, all of these features
and embodiments may be implemented based on the systems, methods
and devices described herein.
[0107] Conditional language used herein, such as, among others,
"can," "could," "might," "may," "e.g.," and the like, unless
specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the
context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain
embodiments include, while other embodiments do not include,
certain features, elements and/or states. Thus, such conditional
language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements
and/or states are in any way required for one or more
embodiments.
[0108] A number of applications, publications, and external
documents may be incorporated by reference herein. Any conflict or
contradiction between a statement in the body text of this
specification and a statement in any of the incorporated documents
is to be resolved in favor of the statement in the body text.
[0109] Reference throughout this specification to "some
embodiments" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature,
structure or characteristic described in connection with the
embodiment is included in at least some embodiments. Thus,
appearances of the phrases "in some embodiments" or "in an
embodiment" in various places throughout this specification are not
necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the
particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined
in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to one of ordinary
skill in the art from this disclosure, in one or more
embodiments.
[0110] Similarly, it should be appreciated that in the above
description of embodiments, various features of the inventions are
sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or
description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure
and aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various
inventive aspects. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be
interpreted as reflecting an intention that any claim require more
features than are expressly recited in that claim. Rather,
inventive aspects lie in a combination of fewer than all features
of any single foregoing disclosed embodiment.
[0111] Although the invention(s) presented herein have been
disclosed in the context of certain preferred embodiments and
examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that
the invention(s) extend beyond the specifically disclosed
embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses of the
invention(s) and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof.
Thus, it is intended that the scope of the invention(s) herein
disclosed should not be limited by the particular embodiments
described above.
[0112] Indeed, many variations and modifications may be made to the
described embodiments, the elements of which are to be understood
as being among other useful and relevant examples. All such
modifications and variations are intended to be included herein
within the scope of this disclosure.
* * * * *