MULTI-MODAL PROJECTILE GAME

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/705,129 filed on Oct. 9, 2024, the contents of which are incorporated by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to games. More particularly, the present disclosure describes a multi-modal projectile game.

BACKGROUND

When people gather for social events such as parties, family reunions, or community activities, they seek engaging and challenging games to enhance their experience. Traditional ring toss games are often limited to only two players, restricting group participation and diminishing the communal aspect of play. These games typically feature a single set of rules and a straightforward objective, resulting in repetitive and predictable gameplay that may not maintain player interest or accommodate varying skill levels. For example, most conventional ring toss games involve each player tossing a fixed number of rings onto pegs, with little variation or strategic depth.

BRIEF SUMMARY

According to various embodiments, a system comprising: a set of projectiles configured to be thrown; a first support base comprising: a set of radial base couplers positioned radially around the first support base; and a set of axial base couplers that are positioned perpendicular relative to the set of radial base couplers; a first extension component comprising: a first end configured to couple to at least one of the set of radial base couplers or the set of axial base couplers; a second end opposite the first end configured to couple to at least one of the set of radial base couplers or the set of axial base couplers; and a set of radial extension couplers positioned between the first end and the second end, the set of radial extension couplers being configured to couple to at least one of the set of radial base couplers or the set of axial base couplers; and a set of target components, each target component of the set of target components comprising: a first end configured to couple to at least one radial extension coupler of the set of radial extension couplers; and a second end opposite the first end, the second end being configured to support at least a portion of at least one projectile of the set of projectiles.

According to various embodiments, further comprising: a second extension component comprising: a first end configured to couple to at least one of: i) the set of radial base couplers, ii) the set of axial base couplers, iii) the first end of the first extension component, or iv) the second end of the first extension component; a second end opposite the first end configured to couple to at least one of the set of radial base couplers or the set of axial base couplers; and a set of second radial extension couplers positioned between the first end and the second end of the second extension component, the set of radial extension couplers being configured to couple to at least one of the set of radial base couplers or the set of axial base couplers.

According to various embodiments, further comprising: a second support base comprising: a set of radial base couplers positioned radially around the second support base; and a set of axial base couplers that are positioned perpendicular relative to the set of radial base couplers, wherein an axial base coupler of the set of axial base couplers of second support base is configured to couple to at least one of the first end or the second end of the first extension component.

According to various embodiments, further comprising: a score tracking component configured to be adjusted to keep track of scores of a set of users based at least in part on an amount of projectiles of the set of projectiles that are coupled to the set of target components.

According to various embodiments, wherein: at least one radial base coupler of the set of radial base couplers or the set of axial base couplers comprises a female-type socket, at least one of the first end or the second end of the first extension component comprises a male-type protrusion, the female-type socket is configured to receive the male-type protrusion at least partially within to secure the first extension component to the first support base, and the male-type protrusion is configured to secure the first extension component in a fixed orientation relative to the first support base.

According to various embodiments, wherein: at least one radial extension coupler of the set of radial extension couplers comprises a female-type socket, the first end of a target component of the set of target components comprises a male-type protrusion, the female-type socket is configured to receive the male-type protrusion at least partially within to secure the target component to the first extension component, and the male-type protrusion is configured to secure the target component in a fixed orientation relative to the first extension component.

According to various embodiments, wherein the first end of each target component is oriented along a first axis and the second end of each target component is orientated along a second axis different from the first axis.

According to various embodiments, a device comprising: a support base that includes a set of base couplers; a set of extension components configured to connect to the set of base couplers, wherein each extension component of the set of extension components comprises: a first coupler positioned along a first axis, the first coupler being configured to be connectable to another extension component of the set of extension components; a second coupler positioned along a second axis perpendicular to the first axis; a set of target components configured to connect to the set of extension components, wherein the each target component of the set of target components is configured to be connectable to the second coupler and support at least a portion of at least one projectile of the set of projectiles; and a set of projectiles configured to be thrown towards at least one of the set of extension components or the set of target components.

According to various embodiments, wherein: the set of extension components comprises: a first extension component; and a second extension component connected to the first extension component; and the set of target components comprises: a first target component coupled the first extension component; and a second target component coupled to the second extension component.

According to various embodiments, wherein the set of target components comprises: a first target component that includes a first end coupled a first extension coupler of the set of extension couplers and a second end configured to support a projectile of the set of projectiles; and a second target component that includes a first end coupled a second extension coupler of the set of extension couplers and a second end configured to support the projectile of the set of projectiles, the second extension coupler being coupled to the first extension coupler, and wherein a distance between the second end of the first target component and the second end of the second target component is less than a diameter of an opening of the projectile.

According to various embodiments, wherein each extension component of the set of extension components comprises: a female-type socket that includes a recess; a male-type protrusion, and wherein the recess of the female-type socket of a first extension component of the set of extension components is configured to receive the male-type protrusion of a second extension component of the set of extension components.

According to various embodiments, wherein: the female-type socket has three or more walls, the male-type protrusion has three or more walls, and the female-type socket and the male-type protrusion have an equivalent number of walls.

According to various embodiments, wherein each target component of the set of target components comprises: a first end coupled to an extension component of the set of extension components along an axis; and a second end angled with respect to the axis at an angle between 0 and 180 degrees.

According to various embodiments, wherein the set of base couplers are connected to two or more extension components to form a support frame that is configured to hold the set of extension components and the set of target components a distance above a surface that the support base is placed on.

According to various embodiments, an apparatus comprising: a first support base comprising: a set of radial base couplers positioned radially around the first support base; and an axial base coupler that is positioned perpendicular relative to the set of radial base couplers; a first set of extension components coupled to the set of radial base couplers of the support base that are configured to form at least a portion of a support frame for the apparatus and extend a first spatial profile of the apparatus in a first direction; a first extension component coupled to the axial base coupler, the first extension component being configured to extend a second spatial profile of the apparatus in a second direction different from the first direction; a set of target components configured to be connectable to at least one of the first set of extension components or the first extension component; and a set of projectiles configured to be thrown towards at least one of the first extension component or the set of target components.

According to various embodiments, wherein the set of projectiles are selected from the group consisting of: rings, discs, hoops, discs with holes, polygonal-type rings, horseshoes, magnetic objects, bean bags, or any combination thereof.

According to various embodiments, wherein each target component of the set of target components and each projectile of the set of projectiles are color coded.

According to various embodiments, further comprising: a second support base comprising: a set of radial base couplers positioned radially around the second support base; and an axial base coupler that is positioned perpendicular relative to the set of radial base couplers; a second set of extension components coupled to the set of radial base couplers of the second support base that are configured to form at least a portion of the support frame of the apparatus; and a second extension coupler configured to be connectable to the axial base coupler of the second support base and connectable to the first extension coupler.

According to various embodiments, wherein the apparatus is configurable to transform from a vertical configuration into a horizontal configuration, wherein: in the vertical configuration, each extension component of the first set of extension components and the first support base are in physical contact with a surface that supports the apparatus in a vertical orientation perpendicular to the surface; in the horizontal configuration, a subset of the first set of extension components and a subset of the second set of extension components are in physical connect with the surface that supports the apparatus, and the first support base and the seconds support base are not in contact with the surface in a horizontal orientation parallel to the surface.

According to various embodiments, wherein the first set of extension components and the first extension component are coupled to a set of caps that prevent additional extension components from being added to either the first set of extension components or the first extension component.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various embodiments in accordance with the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a simplified diagram of an example projectile game with two projectile apparatus, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 2A is an angled view of example vertical configuration of a projectile apparatus, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 2B is an angled view of example vertical configuration of a projectile apparatus with projectiles on a set of target components, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 2C is an angled view of example vertical configuration of a projectile apparatus with a set of target components extending to the left, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 2D is an angled view of example vertical configuration of a projectile apparatus with a set of target components extending to the right, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 2E is an angled view of example vertical configuration of a projectile apparatus with a set of target components extending to the rear, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 2F is a top angled view of example vertical configuration of a projectile apparatus with a set of target components rotated with respect to each other, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 3 is a simplified diagram of a set of example configurations of projectile apparatuses that use stacked extension components, according to various embodiments.

FIG. 4A is a simplified diagram of an example circular socket geometry for connecting a support base, target components, and/or extension components to each other, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 4B is a simplified diagram of an example hexagonal socket geometry for connecting a support base, target components, and/or extension components to each other, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 5 is a simplified diagram of example color-coding schemes for various projectile apparatuses, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 6 is a simplified diagram of an example score tracking component for a projectile apparatus, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 7 is a simplified diagram of example vertical configuration of a multi-modal modular projectile apparatus, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 8 is an exploded diagram of example components of a multi-modal modular projectile apparatus, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 9 is a simplified diagram of example vertical configuration of a multi-modal modular projectile apparatus with a set of additional extension components, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 10 is a simplified diagram of example vertical configuration of a multi-modal modular projectile apparatus with a set of additional extension components, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 11 is a simplified diagram of example vertical configuration of a multi-modal modular projectile apparatus with a utility component, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 12A is a simplified diagram of example round profile hoop utility, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 12B is a simplified diagram of example hexagonal profile utility component, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 13 is a simplified diagram of example vertical configuration of a multi-modal modular projectile apparatus with an additional base component with radial target components, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 14 is a simplified diagram of example horizontal configuration of a multi-modal modular projectile apparatus with an additional base component, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 15 is a simplified diagram of example horizontal configuration of a multi-modal modular projectile apparatus with an additional base component, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 16 is a simplified diagram of example extension component attached to a target component, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 17A is a simplified diagram of example a target component that includes a bend at an angle, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 17B is a simplified diagram of example a target component that includes a bend at an angle, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 17C is a simplified diagram of example a target component that includes a bend at an angle, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 18A is a simplified diagram of example multi-modal modular projectile apparatus with a target component supporting a projectile, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 18B is a simplified diagram of example multi-modal modular projectile apparatus with a target component supporting a projectile, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 18C is a simplified diagram of example multi-modal modular projectile apparatus with an extension component supporting a projectile, according to various embodiments; and

FIG. 18D is a simplified diagram of example two target components supporting a projectile, according to various embodiments.

In the drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the various views unless otherwise specified. Not all instances of an element are necessarily labeled to reduce clutter in the drawings where appropriate. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles being described

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following detailed description is of the best currently contemplated modes of carrying out exemplary embodiments of the disclosure. The description is not to be taken in a limiting sense but is made merely for the purpose of illustrating the general principles of the disclosure, since the scope of the disclosure is defined by the appended claims.

Conventional ring toss devices provide limited variation and minimal strategic depth. Typical formats rely on a single upright post, a flat X-shaped array of posts, or simple vertical objects such as cones or bottles, with fixed spacing, static heights, and uniform scoring. These arrangements often restrict participation to one or two players at a time, do not scale difficulty for different ages or skill levels, and produce repetitive play that diminishes engagement. Conventional devices additionally lack modularity, environmental versatility, and meaningful ways to update the challenge, resulting in predictable outcomes and reduced replay value for group settings.

Embodiments of the present disclosure introduce a modular, multi-dimensional ring toss system that overcomes these constraints by employing interlocking extensions of varying colors that stack to adjust vertical or horizontal distance and rotate to reposition scoring posts. Each section incorporates one or more side-protruding posts that function as targets, and projectiles (e.g., rings) of different sizes and colors can be used to vary technique and difficulty. The apparatus supports vertical and horizontal play orientations and offers virtually unlimited configurations suitable for indoor use, outdoor surfaces, water environments, and/or beach settings. Components are designed for quick assembly, stable coupling, and durable performance, enabling rapid reconfiguration between rounds.

These features provide numerous technical advantages, including expanded gameplay modes, heightened strategic options, and/or inclusive participation for individuals and teams. Difficulty can be scaled by changing section count, changing orientation configurations, post orientation, ring size, and throwing distance, while color-coding enables thematic play and nuanced scoring. Non-limiting scoring examples may include base points for any post, bonuses for color matches where the projectiles include colors, additional points for top-extension or post placements, and cumulative points for multiple simultaneous hooks. Users may establish their own rule sets to emphasize accuracy, speed, and/or trick shots, promoting continual adaption, stronger competition, the opportunity to practice hand-eye coordination, and/pr sustained interest across a range of players and venues.

FIG. 1 is a simplified diagram of an example projectile game with two projectile apparatus 100, according to various embodiments. By way of a non-limiting example, each projectile apparatus 100 may include at least one target component 105 (e.g., posts), a support base 102, a set of extension components 106 coupled to the support base 102, a set of projectiles 110 (e.g., playing rings), a frame 104 (e.g., a rod), and/or a cap 10. Each support base 102 provides a stable platform for the extension components 106 to be supported in a stacked configuration and stable enough to be resilient to impacts from the projectiles 110 when thrown at each projectile apparatus 100.

FIGS. 2A-2F are various angled views of example vertical configurations of a projectile apparatus 200, according to various embodiments. By way of a non-limiting example, a support base 202 may include a set of arms 201 that extend from the support base 202 to provide a stable platform that is resilient to horizontal impacts. A frame 204 (e.g., a rod) may extend vertically from the support base 202 from a center of the support base 202. The projectile apparatus 200 may include a set of extension components 206 that couple to the frame 204 and/or to each other to vertically extend upwards from the support base 202 to increase a height (e.g., spatial profile) of the projectile apparatus 200. The projectile apparatus 200 can also include cap 208 which can be vertically coupled to a top most extension component 205-6.

According to various embodiments, the projectile apparatus 200 may include extension components 206 and target components 205 that are color-coded. The extension components 206 may couple together (e.g., snap lock, vertically supported, etc.) where each extension component may include one or more of the target components 205 protruding from a set of radial extension couplers 209 with ends at angles relative to the vertical stacking direction of the extension components 206.

FIG. 3 is a simplified diagram of a set of example configurations of projectile apparatuses 300 that use stacked extension components, according to various embodiments. By way of a non-limiting example, any suitable number of projectile apparatuses 300 may be included in any suitable configuration. In this non-limiting example, a descending number (from left to right) of extension components 305 with target components 305 with various color-codings are depicted.

FIG. 4A is a simplified diagram of an example circular socket geometry 400-1 for connecting a support base, target components, and/or extension components to each other, according to various embodiments. By way of a non-limiting example, the circular socket geometry 400-1 may be used to connect a support base (e.g., support base 102 with respect to FIG. 1) to an extension component (e.g., extension component 106 with respect to FIG. 1) and/or to a first end of a target component (e.g., target component 105 with respect to FIG. 1). The connection of the circular socket geometry 400-1 may be a secure connection that limits and/or stops rotation of components with respect to each other. Each of the support base, extension components, and/or target components may have corresponding male-type protrusions or female-type sockets for connecting together.

The female-type socket and male-type protrusion interface (e.g., couplers) may be implemented with a variety of cross-sectional geometries to achieve different functional outcomes, including quick connect/disconnect, fixed-orientation coupling, discrete angular indexing, and/or free rotation where desired. In some embodiments, a female-type socket at a set of radial base couplers, a set of axial base couplers, or a set of radial extension couplers (discussed in more detail with respect to FIG. 8) includes a recess with three or more walls, and a corresponding male-type protrusion at a first end or second end of an extension component, or at a first end of a target component, has an equivalent number of walls to secure the coupled element in a fixed orientation. For example, a hexagonal female-type socket (as described with respect to FIG. 4B) engaging a hexagonal male-type protrusion may prevent rotation entirely, or may provide discrete indexing at 60-degree increments when paired with shallow detents. Similarly, octagonal, square, triangular, or other polygonal geometries may be used to vary the number of available index positions, provide positive angular location, and resist torsional loads during use.

In various embodiments, circular geometries may be employed where free rotation or quick reorientation is preferred. A circular female-type socket receiving a circular male-type protrusion may allow continuous 360-degree rotation about a coupling axis; rotation may be controlled by frictional elements such as elastomeric rings, spring-biased detents, wave springs, compressible bushings, or by adjustable preload features integrated into the female-type socket. A circular interface may also include one or more axial keys, flats, splines, or D-shaped segments that selectively engage mating features on the male-type protrusion to convert a freely rotating interface into a fixed-orientation or indexed interface when required. In still other examples, a bayonet-style quarter-turn interface may be realized by providing axial insertion slots and circumferential locking ramps within the female-type socket and one or more locking lugs on the male-type protrusion; this configuration supports rapid coupling with a short twist while resisting axial pull-out.

To facilitate quick connect and disconnect, the female-type socket may incorporate lead-in chamfers, tapered entrances, and/or low-friction surface finishes, while the male-type protrusion may include a pilot tip and progressive draft to guide engagement. Axial retention can be achieved via snap-fit beads, compliant fingers, spring-loaded balls, magnetically assisted retention, or compressive interference fits. Where fixed orientation is claimed or desired, keyed profiles, non-circular cross-sections with equivalent wall counts, or discrete tooth-and-pocket features may be used to limit rotation and provide tactile and audible feedback upon full seating. Where user-selectable rotation is desired, indexed rings, ratchet-and-pawl elements, or detent arrays may be positioned circumferentially within the female-type socket to permit stepwise angular repositioning. Engagement depth, wall thickness, and corner radii may be chosen to balance strength, wear resistance, and/or manufacturability ease, and materials such as acetal, nylon, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polycarbonate, aluminum, or stainless steel may be used depending on load, environment, and desired friction characteristics. The same geometry families (circular, hexagonal, and other polygons with three or more walls) may be consistently applied across the set of radial base couplers, the set of axial base couplers, the set of radial extension couplers, the first end and second end of an extension component, and the first end of a target component to promote secure coupling, reliable indexing, and/or uniform assembly that is readily performed by a user (or in some cases, by a machine).

FIG. 4B is a simplified diagram of an example hexagonal socket geometry for connecting a support base, target components, and/or extension components to each other, according to various embodiments. By way of a non-limiting example, the hexagonal socket geometry 400-2 may be used to connect a support base (e.g., support base 102 with respect to FIG. 1) to an extension component (e.g., extension component 106 with respect to FIG. 1) and/or to a first end of a target component (e.g., target component 105 with respect to FIG. 1). The connection of the hexagonal socket geometry 400-2 may be a secure connection that limits and/or stops rotation of components with respect to each other.

FIG. 5 is a simplified diagram of example color-coding schemes for various projectile apparatuses 500, according to various embodiments. Each extension component 506 and/or each target component 505 may be color-coded to communicate assembly, orientation, and/or scoring information in coordination with a score tracking component (discussed in more detail with respect to FIG. 6), and any combination of colors, patterns, logos, textures, coatings, or score markings may be used. Non-limiting color examples include solid primary colors (e.g., red, blue, yellow), secondary colors (e.g., green, orange, purple), tertiary mixtures, grayscale (e.g., white, light gray, dark gray, black), metallic finishes (e.g., silver, gold, copper, bronze), neon and fluorescent hues, phosphorescent glow-in-the-dark coatings, ultraviolet-reactive and photochromic inks, and thermochromic coatings that change color with temperature; finishes may be matte, satin, semi-gloss, gloss, iridescent, or pearlescent. Patterns may include stripes, bands, rings, gradients or ombre effects, checkered and polka dots, chevrons, hatching and crosshatching, marbling, speckled or splatter effects, digital or traditional camouflage, tie-dye, and geometric tiling. Logos and markings may include brand indicia, team insignia, mascots, numerals, letters, icons, barcodes, QR codes, directional arrows, angle indicators, alignment marks for a first axis and a second axis, and index marks adjacent to a set of radial extension couplers positioned between the first end and the second end.

Each extension component 506 and/or each target component 505 may include textures. Textures may include knurled, ribbed, stippled, microtextured, sandblasted, bead-blasted, embossed, debossed, raised ridges, recessed channels, and soft-touch or rubberized overmolds; coatings may include anti-slip, hydrophobic, oleophobic, UV-resistant, abrasion-resistant, antimicrobial, weatherproof, paint, powder coat, anodize (for metal), varnish, or lacquer. In some embodiments, a female-type socket (coupler) at a radial extension coupler is color coded and patterned to visually correspond to a male-type protrusion (coupler) at the first end of a target component to provide a seamless color/pattern match when coupled together; matching or contrasting schemes may indicate intended coupling relationships or point values, and discrete bands around the second end of a target component may denote scoring zones with printed numerals (e.g., 1, 2, 3), color indices, or symbols recognizable by a score tracking component. High-contrast palettes and colorblind-friendly palettes (e.g., blue-orange, purple-yellow, black-white) may be used to enhance visibility in indoor, outdoor, poolside, or beach environments, and reflective or retroreflective films may be applied for low-light use. Markings may be applied by molding, laser etching, pad printing, screen printing, in-mold labeling, hydrographic transfer, decals, or adhesive films, and may be positioned on the portion of the extension component between the first end and the second end, on or around a set of radial extension couplers, at the first end of a target component, and at the second end of the target component to indicate angles between 0 and 180 degrees, recommended throwing distances, or cumulative scoring when multiple projectiles are supported simultaneously.

FIG. 6 is a simplified diagram of an example score tracking component 600 for a projectile apparatus, according to various embodiments. A score tracking component 600 may be implemented in mechanical, electromechanical, or electronic forms (e.g., smart phone APP) and may be removably or permanently coupled to a support base or be entirely modular and separate from the projectile apparatus. In various examples, the score tracking component may be an abacus-style scoreboard that includes one or more rods with sliding rings of different colors such that translating a single ring from a home position to an opposite side represents one point, with additional rings on the same rod indicating cumulative points, and distinct ring colors or sizes denoting ones, fives, tens, and/or team assignments. The rods may include detents or friction features to prevent drift, end stops to avoid accidental removal, printed numerals aligned with indexed positions, and color coding coordinated with a set of projectiles and a set of target components to reflect scoring for particular couplings. Other mechanical embodiments include sliding cursor tracks with index marks, ratcheting thumbwheels or rotary dials with viewing windows, flip tabs or flip cards displaying numerals, magnetic tiles or pucks on a ferromagnetic plate, pegboards with removable pegs, and spring-biased tally counters; each variant can provide separate lanes for a set of users and discrete reset features.

In various embodiments, electronic score tracking components 600 may include a battery-powered or solar-assisted display (e.g., seven-segment, dot-matrix, or e-ink) with pushbuttons, capacitive pads, or rotary encoders, optionally linked by wired or wireless communication to sensors integrated with target components to detect when at least a portion of a projectile is supported; suitable sensors include reed switches, Hall-effect sensors, optical emitters and detectors, strain gauges, load cells, and contact switches. Visual and audible indicators such as LEDs, backlighting, haptic vibration, or tones may confirm increments, and the device may maintain per-round and cumulative totals with a manual or automatic reset. Materials and finishes may be UV resistant, water resistant, and impact resistant for indoor, outdoor, or poolside use, with high-contrast graphics, colorblind-friendly palettes, large numerals, and optional tactile markings. Mounting options may include integration via a female-type socket and male-type protrusion, snap-on clips, straps, hook-and-loop fasteners, adhesive pads, brackets that couple to the first extension component, or lanyards. In all cases, the score tracking component is configured to be adjusted to keep track of scores of a set of users based at least in part on an amount of projectiles that are coupled to the set of target components.

FIG. 7 is a simplified diagram of example vertical configuration of a multi-modal modular projectile apparatus 700, according to various embodiments. By way of a non-limiting example, the multi-modal projectile apparatus 700 may include at least one support base 702, a set of extension components 706, a set of target components 705, and a set of caps 708. In an example configuration, the support base 702 functions as a first support base that includes a set of radial base couplers 728 positioned radially around the support base 702 and a set of axial base couplers 704 positioned perpendicular relative to the set of radial base couplers 728. An extension component 706-4 can be coupled at a first end to at least one radial base coupler 728-2 via a female-type socket/male-type protrusion interface, and at a second end to at least one other radial base coupler or axial base coupler to establish a secure, fixed-orientation or indexed coupling. A set of radial extension couplers 737 positioned between the first end and the second end of the first extension component 706 may be configured to receive the first end of any target component 705, with the second end of each target component 705 being configured to support at least a portion of at least one projectile. The caps 708 may be coupled to unused couplers or termini of the first extension component 706 to prevent additional components from being added and to provide a finished, safe edge suitable for all ages.

In a second configuration, two or more extension components 706 may be connected in series or in branching arrangements. For example, a second extension component 706-2 can be coupled at its first end to at least one of: i) a radial base coupler of the support base 702, ii) an axial base coupler of the support base 702, iii) the first end of the first extension component 706-1, or iv) the second end of the first extension component 706; and at its second end to at least one radial base coupler or axial base coupler of another support base 702 (not depicted) to create orthogonal or angled assemblies. The second extension component 706 may include a set of second radial extension couplers 737 positioned between its ends to accept additional target components 705 to increase a number of scoring locations and altering spatial relationships. In further examples, two support bases 702 (e.g., a first support base 702 and a second support base) may be linked by the first extension component 706-1 via respective axial base couplers 704 to form a support frame that holds the set of extension components 706 and the set of target components 705 a distance above a surface (discussed in more detail with respect to FIG. 14). Such a support frame may be realized as an V-shaped or X-shaped frame using two or more extension components 706 coupled to the set of radial base couplers 728, an H-shaped frame bridging between axial base couplers 704, a rectangular or lattice frame with perpendicular first and second axes, or an arch-like frame formed by axial connections and indexed rotations at polygonal sockets.

The modular coupler architecture described in this disclosure supports transformation between a vertical configuration and a horizontal configuration (or combinations of both) with ease. In the vertical configurations, each extension component 706 of a first set of extension components and the support base 702 are in physical contact with a surface that supports the apparatus in a vertical orientation perpendicular to the surface (e.g., the ground, a table, pool float, ocean floor, etc.), with target components 705 extending laterally from radial extension couplers at varied heights. In the horizontal configuration, a subset of the first set of extension components 706 and a subset of a second set of extension components (optionally coupled to a second support base 702) are in physical contact with the surface, while the support bases 702 are not in contact with the surface and are oriented parallel to the surface, forming beam-like or bridge-like arrangements that suspend target components 705 at low elevation for sliding, hooking, or magnetic coupling play. Indexed polygonal female-type sockets (e.g., hexagonal or octagonal) can limit rotation at couplings to discrete angular positions for repeatable geometry, whereas circular female-type sockets coupled to circular male-type protrusions may enable free or detented rotation to reposition target components 705 between rounds. The set of projectiles may be thrown toward at least one extension component 706 or at least one target component 705, and a score tracking component (if present) may be mounted to the support base 702, to an extension component 706, or to the support frame and adjusted based at least in part on an amount of projectiles that are coupled to the set of target components 705. In all configurations, caps 708 may be applied to the first end or second end of extension components 706, to unused radial extension couplers 728, and to available base couplers to control assembly limits, enhance safety, and finalize the apparatus geometry and visible aesthetic.

FIG. 8 is an exploded diagram of example components of a multi-modal modular projectile apparatus 700, according to various embodiments. Some components such as extension components 706-3, 706-4, target component 705-2, and cap 708-1 have been omitted to reduce visual clutter and for ease of discussion. As discussed previously, the radial extension couplers 737 may couple to the first end 711 of a target component 705 using a selectable interface that may be male-type or female-type, and which may be interchanged to accommodate different assembly preferences. In one example, the radial extension couplers 737 are implemented as female-type sockets 739 that receive a male-type protrusion 738 at the first end 711 to secure the target component 705 in either a fixed orientation or an indexed orientation (e.g., 3, 6, 9, 12, etc. based on a number of walls). The female-type sockets 739 (or male equivalent) may form couplers on the extension component 706 that are perpendicular along an axis relative to the male-type protrusion 734 and female-type socket 735. In another non-limiting example, the radial extension couplers 737 may be implemented as male-type protrusions (not depicted) that engage a female-type socket at the first end 711. Similarly for female-type sockets of the axial base couplers 704, male-type protrusions 734 and female-type sockets 735 of extension component 706. The coupling interface for like elements may be common across the set of radial extension couplers 737, or varied within the same assembly, to enable straightforward replacement of target components 705 or to enforce positional constraints. Once coupled, the interface at the first end 711 governs the orientation and permitted motion of the second end 713 of the target component 705 to enable the second end 713 to be set in a fixed angle for repeatable play or to be rotated to desired angular positions to vary gameplay.

As discussed previously, rotation control can be provided by the geometry of the female-type socket and male-type protrusion. For example, a circular interface at the radial extension couplers 737 may allow free or friction-controlled rotation of the first end 711 about an axis, which correspondingly allows the second end 713 to be rotated continuously to any angle between 0 and 360 degrees in either direction relative to the coupling axis as needed by a given configuration. In addition, or alternatively, a polygonal interface, such as hexagonal, octagonal, square, or triangular, can limit rotation to discrete indexed positions, for example 60-degree increments for hexagonal profiles to provide positive alignment and repeatable placement of the second end 713. Mixed interfaces may also be used, for instance a circular interface (e.g., depicted with respect to FIG. 4A) with one or more flats or keys to allow selectable conversion between free rotation and fixed orientation. In all cases, the interface may provide audible or tactile feedback (e.g., a click or vibration) upon engagement and may maintain the target component 705 in the desired angular position during use.

The sizes and shapes of the radial extension couplers 737 may be standardized to a single optimal dimension and geometry across the projectile apparatus 700 to maximize configuration options, cross-compatibility, and interchangeability of target components 705. In other embodiments, the radial extension couplers 737 may be provided in multiple size teams or geometry families to define specific pre-designed configurations for popular game types. For example, a first team may use circular female-type sockets for freely rotatable placements, a second team may use hexagonal female-type sockets for indexed placements, and a third team may use square female-type sockets for orthogonal placements only. Color coding, visible patterns, or score markings on the radial extension couplers 737 and at the first end 711 of the target components 705 may indicate compatible teams of skill, intended point values, or recommended positions. Adapters may be employed, when desired, to bridge between different families while maintaining the male-type protrusion and female-type socket relationships.

The radial base couplers 728 and the axial base couplers 732 may also be implemented as male-type or female-type and may be interchanged to suit assembly needs. For example, the radial base couplers 728 may be female-type sockets while the axial base couplers 732 are male-type protrusions, or vice versa, allowing the first end or second end of an extension component 706 to couple at either location. In some embodiments, the radial base couplers 728 and axial base couplers 732 share the same geometry and size as the radial extension couplers 737 to unify coupling behavior across the support base 702 and the extension components 706. In various embodiments, the projectile apparatus 700 may use distinct geometries to enforce structural hierarchies or to preconfigure assemblies for vertical or horizontal arrangements. Interchangeable coupler modules (e.g., adapters) can be provided so that a user can convert a given radial base coupler 728 or axial base coupler 732 from female-type to male-type or from one geometry to another without replacing the entire component.

The caps 708 may include male-type protrusions 736 or female-type sockets (not depicted) and may be provided in the same sizes and shapes as the radial extension couplers 737, radial base couplers 728, and axial base couplers 732, or in different sizes and shapes where specific end conditions are desired. A cap 708 may be used to terminate any unused coupler, for example at a radial extension coupler 737, at a radial base coupler 728, or at an axial base coupler 732, to prevent additional components from being added, improve safety, provide environmental protection, or preserve a chosen configuration. In some examples, a cap 708 may function as a converter, such as a female-type cap that presents an external male-type protrusion or a male-type cap that presents an external female-type socket, thereby allowing a change in coupler type at a given location. Caps 708 may also include indexing features or friction elements to help maintain the orientation of adjacent components, and may carry markings or color coding that correspond to particular scoring rules or configuration states.

FIGS. 9 and 10 are a simplified diagram of example vertical configuration of a multi-modal modular projectile apparatus 700 with a set of additional extension components, according to various embodiments. In a vertical configuration, suitable limits on vertical height may be defined as the distance from a surface supporting a first support base to the highest point of a cap, extension component, or a target component (e.g., the second end of a target component), and may vary based on environment, load, and projectile type. Non-limiting examples include heights of approximately 12-60 inches (0.3-1.5 meters) for indoor use and even exceeding approximately 80 inches (2.0 meters) for outdoor use, with lower ranges (e.g., 8-32 inches, 0.2-0.8 meters) ideal for pool or beach environments. Vertical height may be increased by coupling a first extension component at its first end or second end to a set of radial base couplers or a set of axial base couplers, and by engaging additional target components to a set of radial extension couplers positioned between the first end and the second end. Where greater stability is desired, additional extension components (e.g., a second extension component) may be coupled to the set of radial base couplers and/or the set of axial base couplers to form a support frame, widen a base footprint (spatial profile), or create triangulated structures. In further embodiments, a second support base may be interconnected via axial base couplers to distribute load and reduce tipping. Couplings may be implemented using female-type sockets and male-type protrusions to secure fixed-orientation or indexed assemblies; once a desired height is achieved, caps may be coupled to unused couplers to prevent further additions, enhance safety, and/or provide end-of-assembly terminations.

FIG. 11 is a simplified diagram of example vertical configuration of a multi-modal modular projectile apparatus with a utility component, according to various embodiments. By way of a non-limiting example, a terminal extension coupler may be configured to receive a utility cap 721 that presents an interface for holding a utility 719, such as a vertical hoop through which a set of projectiles may be thrown to add variation to gameplay and expanding available scoring or challenge modes. The utility cap 721 may couple to a radial extension coupler positioned between the first end and second end of a first extension component, or to the first end or second end themselves, using a male-type protrusion or a female-type socket, and may be interchangeable with caps 708 and other coupler types to accommodate different assembly preferences. In some embodiments, the utility cap 721 includes a keyed or polygonal interface (e.g., hexagonal) to secure a utility in a fixed orientation or at indexed angles, while other embodiments employ a circular interface with friction elements or detents to allow selective rotation. The utility 719 may be any suitable type, including a vertical hoop, a basketball hoop (with or without a net), an arch, funnel or chute that redirects projectiles toward a set of target components, a backboard, a spinner or deflector, a bell or gong for audible feedback, a magnetic strike plate, or an illuminated ring, and may be used in a vertical configuration or a horizontal configuration. The utility cap 721 may be provided in sizes and geometries matching the radial extension couplers, radial base couplers, and axial base couplers to maximize interchangeability, or in distinct families that preconfigure popular game types; adapters may bridge between families while preserving the male-type/female-type relationships. Materials and coatings (e.g., anti-slip, UV-resistant, abrasion-resistant) may be selected to withstand indoor, outdoor, poolside, or beach environments, and color coding, logos, textures, or score markings on the utility cap 721 may coordinate with a score tracking component to designate point values for passing through a utility and/or subsequently coupling a projectile to a set of target components. In all cases, the terminal extension coupler and utility cap 721 support quick connect/disconnect, secure retention under load, and reliable orientation control, enabling users to configure, reconfigure, and expand the apparatus with utilities that introduce new objectives, trick-shot options, team modes, and/or progressive difficulty.

FIG. 12A is a simplified diagram of example round profile hoop utility 719, according to various embodiments. A utility cap 721 may be configured to hold a smooth circular hoop that serves as a utility for the projectile apparatus 700 (or any other projectile apparatus described herein), providing a pass-through target for a set of projectiles. The round profile hoop utility 719 may allow continuous 360-degree rotation about its coupling axis where desired, controlled by friction elements, spring-biased detents, or adjustable preload within the female-type socket. In various embodiments, rotation may be fixed using keys or flats. The round profile hoop utility 719 may be used in a vertical configuration or a horizontal configuration, and may be positioned upstream of a set of target components so that a projectile earns points for passing through the round profile hoop utility 719 and additional points for coupling to at least one target component. Non-limiting examples include diameters selected to match a set of projectiles, high-contrast color coding coordinated with a score tracking component, reflective or glow coatings for low-light conditions, and materials such as plastic, metal, or composites with UV-resistant, abrasion-resistant, or hydrophobic finishes.

FIG. 12B is a simplified diagram of example hexagonal profile hoop utility component 719, according to various embodiments. A utility cap 721 may hold a hexagonal profile hoop utility 719 having a polygonal cross-section, and is not limited to just hexagonal. For example, using octagonal, square, or triangular may similarly provide additional indexed angular orientations and discrete alignment relative to a first axis and a second axis. The utility cap 721 may couple to a terminal extension coupler using a polygonal female-type socket that receives a polygonal male-type protrusion with an equivalent number of walls to secure the utility in a fixed orientation or at indexed angles, for example 60-degree increments for a hexagonal perimeter. The polygonal geometry may influence projectile trajectories and difficulty by presenting flat faces, corners, or chamfered edges, and may include color-coded faces, numerals, or symbols mapped to point values recognized by a score tracking component. The hexagonal profile hoop utility component 719 may be used in a vertical configuration to create elevated pass-through challenges or in a horizontal configuration to form bridge-like lanes; it may be positioned so that a projectile is directed toward a set of target components after pass-through. The hexagonal profile hoop utility component 719 may be provided in standardized sizes matching radial extension couplers, radial base couplers, and axial base couplers to maximize interchangeability, or in distinct families for popular game-types; adapters may bridge between families while preserving male-type/female-type relationships. Materials and coatings may include anti-slip, UV-resistant, and weatherproof finishes, and unused couplers may be terminated with caps that include male-type or female-type interfaces in matching or differing sizes.

FIG. 13 is a simplified diagram of example vertical configuration of a multi-modal modular projectile apparatus 800 with an additional base component with radial target components, according to various embodiments. By way of a non-limiting example, a projectile apparatus 800 may include a second support base 802-2 having a set of radial base couplers 828 and a set of axial base couplers positioned perpendicular relative to the set of radial base couplers 828, where a set of target components 805 extends directly from the set of radial base couplers 828 without a set of radial extension couplers 806 or any extension components positioned in between. Each target component 805 may couple at a first end to a radial base coupler 828 via a female-type socket/male-type protrusion interface, where the radial base coupler 828 may be implemented as a female-type socket receiving a male-type protrusion at the first end of the target component 805, or vice versa. The coupling geometry may be circular to allow free or detented rotation of the target component 805 so that its second end is rotatable to desired angles, or polygonal (e.g., hexagonal, octagonal, square) to limit rotation to discrete indexed positions for fixed-orientation gameplay. The second end of each target component 805 is configured to support at least a portion of a projectile of a set of projectiles to enable low-profile arrays of scoring locations in a vertical configuration or a horizontal configuration. Interchangeable coupler modules may convert the set of radial base couplers 828 between male-type and female-type or between geometry profiles to expand configuration options.

FIG. 14 is a simplified diagram of example horizontal configuration of a multi-modal modular projectile apparatus with an additional base component, according to various embodiments. A projectile apparatus 900 includes two support bases 902, each include a set of radial base couplers positioned radially around the respective support base and a set of axial base couplers positioned perpendicular relative to the set of radial base couplers, wherein each support base 902 couples to two extension components 906 arranged in a V-shaped configuration to elevate and stabilize a series of extension components 906 spanning between the two support bases 902 above a surface. The V-shaped arrangement may be formed by coupling the first end and the second end of each extension component 906 to selected radial base couplers and/or axial base couplers via female-type sockets and male-type protrusions to achieve fixed-orientation or indexed coupling; in other examples, circular interfaces permit detented or friction-controlled rotation for adjustable geometry. The series of extension components 906 may connect end-to-end (e.g., first coupler along a first axis to a second coupler along a second axis perpendicular to the first axis) to form a support frame that holds the set of extension components 906 and a set of target components a distance above the surface (e.g., the ground), with a set of radial extension couplers positioned between the first end and the second end of each extension component 906 receiving the first end of target components 905 such that the second end of each target component supports at least a portion of a projectile. The spanning structure may be configured as a straight beam, lattice, arch, or bridge, and may be realized in a vertical configuration (support bases in contact with the surface, span elevated) or in a horizontal configuration (a subset of extension components 906 in contact with the surface, support bases 902 elevated and parallel to the surface).

FIG. 15 is a simplified diagram of example horizontal configuration of a multi-modal modular projectile apparatus with an additional base component, according to various embodiments. By way of example, two support bases 1002 may each including a set of radial base couplers positioned radially around the respective support base and a set of axial base couplers positioned perpendicular relative to the set of radial base couplers. A first support base 1002-1 couples to two extension components 1006 arranged in a V-shaped configuration to elevate one end of a spanning series of extension components 1006 above a surface while a second support base 1002 remains directly supported on the surface without a V-shaped support. The spanning series of extension components 1006 may connect end-to-end (e.g., a first coupler positioned along a first axis to a second coupler positioned along a second axis perpendicular to the first axis) to form a support frame that holds the set of extension components 1006 and a set of target components 1005 at an incline to create a tilted geometry for play.

FIG. 16 is a simplified diagram of example extension component attached to a target component, according to various embodiments. Each extension component 1102 may be formed in a range of shapes and sizes, which are non-limiting and may include straight, curved, or segmented bodies with cross-sections such as circular, hexagonal, octagonal, square, rectangular, triangular, D-shaped, or splined profiles. Overall lengths may vary (for example, short segments of approximately 2-12 inches, medium segments of approximately 12-36 inches, and long segments of approximately 36-72 inches), and in some embodiments an extension component 1102 may be telescoping to enable adjustable length within a single part. Diameters or widths may range from approximately 0.25-3 inches depending on load and desired stiffness. A first end 1107 and a second end 1109 may each individually incorporate a female-type socket or a male-type protrusion suitable for coupling to a set of radial base couplers or a set of axial base couplers, and a set of radial extension couplers may be positioned between the first end 1107 and the second end 1109 with selectable counts and spacing. Geometries may provide fixed orientation, discrete indexing (e.g., polygonal interfaces), or controlled rotation (e.g., circular interfaces with friction or detents). Extension component 1106 families may share a common size and geometry to maximize interchangeability or may differ to support pre-designed configurations, and caps may be coupled to termini or unused couplers to limit assembly, enhance safety, or provide end-of-assembly terminations.

Each target component 1105 may be realized in non-limiting shapes and sizes including straight posts, curved arms, L-, J-, or U-shaped segments, forked prongs, looped features, or contoured forms with circular, hexagonal, octagonal, square, rectangular, triangular, or D-shaped cross-sections. Lengths may range from approximately 1-24 inches, and the second end may include a hook, knob, disc, platform, textured surface, or other geometry configured to support at least a portion of at least one projectile. The first end of a target component may extend from an extension component at any suitable angle relative to a coupling axis, including, by way of example, approximately 0°, 15°, 30°, 45°, 60°, 75°, 90°, 105°, 120°, 135°, 150°, or 180°, and may be fixed, indexed, or rotatable depending on whether the interface is polygonal or circular. The second end may be angled with respect to the first end at any suitable angle, including approximately 0° (coaxial), 30°, 45°, 60°, 90°, 120°, 135°, 150°, or 180°, or may follow a curved offset to vary difficulty and retention behavior. In some embodiments, the geometry and spacing of adjacent target components may be configured such that a distance between second ends is less than a diameter of an opening of a projectile, enabling catch-and-retention challenges. All dimensions, shapes, and angles are illustrative and not limiting.

FIGS. 17A-17C are simplified diagrams of example a target component coupled to an extension component that includes a bend at various angles, according to various embodiments. In some embodiments, a first end 1211 of a target component 1205 may extend from a radial extension coupler 1206 at approximately 30° (FIG. 17A), 45° (FIG. 17B), or 60° (FIG. 17C) relative to a coupling axis. At approximately 30°, the offset is shallow, providing minimal lateral displacement such that a second end 1213 offers lower-difficulty support for at least a portion of a projectile. At approximately 45°, the offset is moderate, yielding a balanced reach and intermediate challenge while positioning the second end to reduce interference with adjacent target components. At approximately 60°, the offset is pronounced, delivering significant lateral displacement that increases spacing and difficulty, and improves clearance around the second end 1213 in densely packed assemblies. These angles are illustrative and non-limiting, and may be implemented with fixed-orientation, indexed, or rotatable couplings depending on whether the interface between the radial extension coupler and the first end 1211 is polygonal or circular.

FIGS. 18A-18D is a simplified diagram of example multi-modal modular projectile apparatus with a target component supporting a projectile, according to various embodiments. In use, a set of projectiles 1310 may be directed (e.g., thrown, tossed, etc.) toward at least one of the set of extension components or the set of target components, and upon coupling, a second end of a target component is configured to support at least a portion of at least one projectile. The first end of each target component may be coupled to a set of radial extension couplers positioned between a first end and a second end of an extension component so that the orientation of the first end along a first axis and the orientation of the second end along a second axis different from the first axis promote reliable support in both a vertical configuration and a horizontal configuration. In some embodiments, the set of target components is arranged such that a distance between the second end of a first target component and the second end of a second target component is less than a diameter of an opening of a projectile 1310-2 (e.g., rings, discs, hoops, discs with holes, polygonal-type rings, horseshoes, magnetic objects, or bean bags), enabling a single projectile to be simultaneously supported by multiple second ends to increase difficulty and permit cumulative scoring.

The embodiments described herein are illustrative and non-limiting, and components may be interchanged across the system, apparatus, and device in any suitable configuration. By way of example, a first support base may be used alone or with a second support base, third support base, fourth support base, etc., the set of radial base couplers and the set of axial base couplers may be implemented as male-type protrusions or female-type sockets and may be interchanged, a first extension component and a second extension component may be added, omitted, or connected at either the first end or the second end to any of the set of radial base couplers or the set of axial base couplers, and a set of radial extension couplers may be uniform or varied in size, spacing, and geometry. Each target component of the set of target components may couple at its first end to any radial extension coupler and may have its second end oriented to support at least a portion of at least one projectile from the set of projectiles; the set of projectiles may include any of the types recited and may be used in either a vertical configuration or a horizontal configuration. A support frame may be formed from two or more extension components coupled to the set of base couplers to elevate assemblies above a surface, or may be a unified rod, and caps may be applied to any unused coupler or terminus to prevent additional extensions, provide indexing features, or enhance safety. Features disclosed with respect to one embodiment may be combined with features of another embodiment unless explicitly stated otherwise, and terms such as “first,” “second,” “set,” “coupled,” and “configured to” are used for distinction and do not imply order, priority, or limitation. Dimensions, angles, counts, geometries, and materials may vary, and equivalent substitutions of female-type sockets and male-type protrusions are contemplated throughout; the scope of the disclosure is defined solely by the appended claims.

The specification and drawings are, accordingly, to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense. It will, however, be evident that various modifications and changes may be made thereunto without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the disclosure as set forth in the claims.

Other variations are within the spirit of the present disclosure. Thus, while the disclosed techniques are susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, certain illustrated examples thereof are shown in the drawings and have been described above in detail. It should be understood, however, that there is no intention to limit the disclosure to the specific form or forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the disclosure, as defined in the appended claims.

The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and similar referents in the context of describing the disclosed examples (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing” are to be construed as open-ended terms (e.g., meaning “including, but not limited to,”) unless otherwise noted. The term “connected” is to be construed as partly or wholly contained within, attached to, or joined together, even if there is something intervening. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate examples of the disclosure and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the disclosure unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the disclosure.

Disjunctive language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, or Z,” unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood within the context as used in general to present that an item, term, etc., may be either X, Y, or Z, or any combination thereof (e.g., X, Y, and/or Z). Thus, such disjunctive language is not generally intended to, and should not, imply that certain examples require at least one of X, at least one of Y, or at least one of Z to each be present.

Use herein of the word “or” is intended to cover inclusive and exclusive OR conditions. In other words, A or B or C includes any or all of the following alternative combinations as appropriate for a particular usage: A alone; B alone; C alone; A and B only; A and C only; B and C only; and all three of A and B and C.

Preferred examples of this disclosure are described herein, including the best mode known to the inventors for carrying out the disclosure. Variations of those preferred examples may become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. The inventors expect skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate, and the inventors intend for the disclosure to be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein. Accordingly, this disclosure includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the disclosure unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

All references, including publications, patent applications, and patents, cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each reference were individually and specifically indicated to be incorporated by reference and were set forth in its entirety herein.