TECHNICAL FIELD

[001] This disclosure relates generally to apparatuses, methods, and systems for controlling the temperature at which a susceptor stops converting microwave radiation to heat. Examples of self-limiting composite susceptors containing conductive carbon particles are described, along with methods of forming such susceptors. In some examples, two polymer compositions may be included in a single susceptor, with one polymer composition containing a network of carbon particles that is disrupted upon melting the polymer compositions at a threshold temperature.

BACKGROUND

[002] Microwavable containers may often include a susceptor that converts microwave radiation into heat. Conventional susceptors may include thin layers of aluminum evaporated onto a plastic backing, which may be adhered to a paper base. While such susceptors may sufficiently generate heat, they may not be equipped to limit heating temperatures in a manner that prevents food from scorching, especially if designated cooking times are exceeded. This problem, also referred to as "thermal runaway," may even cause the susceptors to ignite, creating serious safety hazards in addition to burnt food. Further, the specific positions at which traditional susceptors may be placed on microwavable containers may be limited by their composition and mode of manufacturing.

SUMMARY

[003] Techniques are generally described that include methods, systems, and apparatuses. An example device includes a susceptor configured to selectively convert microwave radiation into heat. The susceptor may include a first polymer composition; a second polymer composition separate from the first polymer composition; and a conductive network of carbon particles. The conductive network of carbon particles may be embedded within the first polymer composition, and the susceptor may be configured to generate heat upon exposure to microwave radiation when a temperature of the susceptor is below a threshold temperature. In embodiments, the first polymer composition and the second polymer composition may be configured to mix together to form a combined polymer matrix when the temperature of the susceptor is above the threshold temperature. In examples, the conductive network of carbon particles may be disrupted in the combined polymer matrix such that the susceptor has a reduced ability to generate heat upon continued exposure to microwave radiation.

[004] In some examples, at least one of the first polymer composition and the second polymer composition may have a melting temperature below an ignition temperature of the susceptor. In some examples, the plurality of carbon particles may include carbon black particles, each with a diameter of about 100 ran or less. In some examples, the first polymer composition and the second polymer composition may each have a melting temperature in a range of about 350°F to about 450°F. In some examples, one of the first or second polymer compositions may have a melting temperature below about 350°F. In some examples, one of the first or second polymer compositions may have a melting temperature above about 450°F. In some examples, one of the first or second polymer compositions may have a first melting temperature below about 350°F, and the other of the first or second polymer compositions may have a second melting temperature above 450°F.

[005] In some examples, the first polymer composition has a first volume, the combined polymer matrix has a second volume, and the second volume is at least double the first volume. In some examples, the device may further include one or more components integrally mixed with at least one of the first polymer composition or the second polymer composition, and the components may include one or more surfactants, dispersants, or block copolymers. In some examples, the first polymer composition may include polyvinylidene fluoride and the second polymer composition may include poly(methyl methacrylate). In some examples, the conductive network of carbon particles may include at least about 20% by volume of the combined polymer matrix.

[006] An example method of forming a composite susceptor involves combining a first polymer composition with a second polymer composition and a plurality of carbon black particles to form an immiscible mixture, and hardening the immiscible mixture to form a solid matrix. In some examples, the plurality of carbon black particles in the solid matrix may be associated with the first polymer composition when a temperature of the solid matrix is below a threshold temperature. In some examples, the plurality of carbon black particles may include a conductive network reactive to microwave radiation to generate heat when the temperature of the solid matrix is below the threshold temperature.

[007] In some examples, combining the first polymer composition with the second polymer composition and a plurality of carbon black particles may involve mixing the first polymer composition, the second polymer composition, and the plurality of carbon black particles in an extruder. In some examples, hardening the immiscible mixture to form a solid matrix may involve: extaiding the immiscible mixture to form an extrudate; cooling the extrudate; and pressing the extrudate to form the solid matrix into a flat sheet. In some examples, combining may involve mixing the first polymer composition with the second polymer composition at a ratio of about 1 : 1. In some examples, combining may involve dissolving the first polymer composition and the second polymer composition in a solvent to form a solution of the immiscible mixture; adding the plurality of carbon black particles to the solution; and agitating the solution. In some examples, hardening the immiscible mixture to form a solid matrix may involve: printing the solution on a substrate; and heating the solution to remove the solvent. In some examples, combining may involve dissolving the first polymer composition and the second polymer composition in a solvent which may include tetrahydrofuran.

[008] An example method of forming a composite susceptor involves admixing a plurality of carbon black particles with a first polymer composition to form a first mixture; diluting the first mixture with a first solvent to form a first solution; diluting a second polymer composition with a second solvent to form a second solution; printing the first solution and the second solution together in an alternating pattern to form a patchwork matrix that includes discrete sections of a printed first solution and a printed second solution; and annealing the discrete sections of the printed first solution and the printed second solution to remove the first and second solvents and form the composite susceptor.

[009] In some examples, printing the first solution and the second solution together in an alternating pattern to form a patchwork matrix may involve printing a checkerboard of square- shaped sections of the first solution and the second solution. In some examples, diluting the first mixture with a first solvent may involve diluting the first mixture with dimethyiacetamide, and diluting the second polymer composition with a second solvent may involve diluting the second polymer composition with tetrahydrofuran. [010] An example system includes a microwavable substrate configured to hold one or more microwavable items, and a susceptor coupled to the microwavable substrate. The susceptor may be configured to selectively convert microwave radiation into heat. In some examples, the susceptor may include a first polymer composition; a second polymer composition separate from the first polymer composition; and a conductive network of carbon particles. The conductive network of carbon particles may be embedded within the first polymer composition, and the susceptor may be configured to generate heat upon exposure to microwave radiation when a temperature of the susceptor is below a threshold temperature. In some examples, the first polymer composition and the second polymer composition may be configured to mix together to form a combined polymer matrix when the temperature of the susceptor is above the threshold temperature. In some examples, the conductive network of carbon particles may be disrupted in the combined polymer matrix such that the susceptor has a reduced ability to generate heat upon continued exposure to microwave radiation.

[011] In some examples, one or more of the microwavable items may include at least one food product. In some examples, the microwavable substrate may include a container, a bag, a tray, a bowl, a sleeve, and/or a lid. In some examples, the susceptor may include a first susceptor with a first threshold temperature and a second susceptor with a second threshold temperature. The first threshold temperature and the second threshold temperature may be different from one another. In some examples, at least one of the first polymer composition and the second polymer composition may have a melting temperature below an ignition temperature of the susceptor.

[012] The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting.

In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[013] The foregoing and other features of the present disclosure will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only several examples in accordance with the disclosure and are, therefore, not to be considered limiting of its scope, the disclosure will be described with additional specificity and detail through use of the accompanying drawings, in which:

[014] Fig. 1 is a schematic illustration of a perspective view of an embodiment of a susceptor;

Fig. 2 is a schematic illustration of a plan view of a susceptor before and after a threshold temperature has been reached:

Fig. 3 is a schematic illustration of a graph of carbon black concentrations of a susceptor versus conductivity levels;

Fig. 4 is a schematic illustration of a microwavable substrate coupled with multiple different susceptors;

Fig. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example method of forming a susceptor;

Fig. 6 is a flowchart illustrating another example method of forming a susceptor;

Fig. 7 is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a computing device that is arranged for determining compositional properties of a susceptor having a particular threshold temperature;

Fig. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example method of forming a susceptor with an extrusion system; and

Fig. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example method of forming a susceptor with a printing system,

ail arranged in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[015] In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof. In the drawings, similar symbols typically identify similar components, unless context dictates otherwise. The illustrative examples described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not meant to be limiting. Other examples may be utilized, and other changes may be made, without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented herein. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein, and illustrated in the Figures, can be arranged, substituted, combined, separated, and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are implicitly contemplated herein. [016] The disclosure is drawn, inter alia, to methods, systems, products, devices, and/or apparatuses generally related to controlling the temperature at which a susceptor stops converting microwave radiation into heat. In one embodiment, a device includes a microwavable susceptor which may selectively convert microwave radiation into heat. The susceptor, which may be printable, may include a first polymer composition and a second, different polymer composition. A conductive network of carbon particles may be embedded within the first polymer composition, where the carbon particles may generate heat upon exposure to microwave radiation when the temperature of the susceptor is below a certain threshold temperature. When the temperature of the susceptor exceeds the threshold, the first and second polymer compositions may mix together to form a combined polymer matrix. Such mixing may disrupt the network of carbon particles and reduce the ability of the susceptor to generate heat, even upon continued exposure to microwave radiation.

[017] Fig. 1 is a schematic illustration of a perspective view of an embodiment of a susceptor arranged in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, a susceptor 100 may include: a first polymer composition 102; a second polymer composition 104; and a plurality of carbon particles 106. Because it includes multiple distinct components, susceptor 100 may be referred to as a "composite susceptor." The various components described in Fig. 1 are merely examples, and other variations, including eliminating components, combining components, and substituting components are all contemplated.

[018] Susceptor 100 depicted in Fig. 1 is in a first state. In this state, first polymer composition

102 and second polymer composition 104 may be immiscible, such that even though the two components may be combined together, the components may remain separate and distinct, e.g., the polymer compositions 102 and 104 are not integrally mixed or homogenously combined. As further shown, electrically-conductive carbon particles 106 may form a network which may be embedded within, or at least associated with, first polymer composition 102. In this first state, carbon particles 106 may generate heat upon exposure to microwave radiation due at least in part to the conductivity of the carbon particles 106 in this configuration.

[019] The general structural characteristics of susceptor 100 are shown in Fig. 1, e.g., two polymer compositions in an immiscible blend and a network of carbon particles associated with one of the polymer compositions. The structure of susceptor 100, e.g., the network of carbon particles, may be substantially retained as the temperature of susceptor 100 increases during microwaving. Upon reaching a threshold temperature, the first polymer composition 102 and second polymer composition 104 may mix integrally together, e.g., melt. Once the polymers mix together, the susceptor 100 is effectively transformed into a second state which has a reduced ability to generate heat upon continued exposure to microwave radiation. The threshold temperature at which susceptor 100 transitions from the first state to the second state may vary for different susceptors depending at least in part on the particular compositional properties of the first and/or second polymer compositions 102, 104.

] By coupling susceptor 100 to a microwavable substrate, e.g., a container, various microwavable items, e.g., food, may be heated. As a whole, the composition of susceptor 100 may be referred to as a "double percolation" material due to its inclusion of a blend of two distinct, connected networks of a first polymer composition 102 and second polymer composition 104 (the first percolation material), and a conductive network of carbon particles 106 (the second percolation material). The double percolation material may be more tolerant to manufacturing variability than existing single percolation materials, such that susceptor 100 may remain functional despite unintended variation in its composition.

] The dispersion of carbon particles 106 throughout susceptor 100 may vary. For instance, in the embodiment shown, carbon particles 106 may form a three-dimensional network throughout first polymer composition 102, which may thus be referred to as the "carbon-carrying phase." In some examples, carbon particles 106 may be embedded exclusively within first polymer composition 102, such that no carbon particles contact second polymer composition 104 (the "carbon-free phase"). In some embodiments, one or more carbon particles 106 may at least partially contact second polymer composition 104. For example, one or more carbon particles 106 may be suspended at one or more interfaces between first polymer composition 102 and second polymer composition 104. The amount, rate and/or efficiency of heat generation driven by carbon particles 106 may depend, at least in part, on the level of connectivity between the particles. For instance, increased connectivity may drive increased and/or faster heat generation such that a susceptor with a dense network of carbon particles may transition to a second state at a higher temperature relative to a susceptor with a less dense carbon particle network. Sparse carbon particle networks may require longer microwaving times and/or increased microwave intensities to reach a desired cooking temperature compared to more dense carbon particle networks. [022] The size and/or composition of carbon particles 106 may vary. In various embodiments, carbon particles 106 may be conductive and may include carbon black particles provided in pellet form, e.g., Cabot Black Pearls 160. Carbon black particles may include one or more carbon black inks. The thickness of carbon black ink may vary, and various inks having a range of thicknesses may be incorporated into susceptor 100. In some embodiments, the diameter of each carbon black particle may be in a range from about 5 nm to about 500 nm, about 15 nm to about 300 nm, about 30 nm to about 200 nm, about 50 nm to about 150 nm, about 80 nm to about 120 nm, about 90 nm to about 1 10 nm, or about 100 nm or less. The surface area of each carbon black particle may be about 100 m ² /g, or may in various examples have a surface area in a range from about 5 m7g to about 500 m ² /g, about 15 m ² /g to about 300 m ² /g, about 30 m7 ^' g to about 200 m ² /g, about 50 mTg to about 50 m ² /g, about 80 m ² /g to about 120 nrVg, or about 90 m7g to about 110 m ² /g.

[023] In the example shown in Fig. 1, susceptor 100 is depicted as a rectangular block of relatively equal height, width and depth. In various embodiments, susceptor 100 may be significantly more planar or flat, e.g., having strip- or sheet-like dimensions. In some examples, susceptor 100 may be relatively thin, with a thickness in a range from about 0.1 mm to about 5 mm, about 0.1 mm to about 2 mm, about 0.1 mm to about 1 mm, about 0.1 mm to about 0.5 mm, or about 0.1 mm to about 0,2 mm. Flat or planar susceptors 100 may be variously shaped, e.g., rectangular, circular, oval, elongate, or irregular. The dimensions of susceptor 100 may depend, at least in part, on its method of manufacture. For instance, in some examples, susceptor 100 may be printed, extruded, and/or molded. Each of these manufacturing approaches may produce susceptors of unique thickness. Susceptor 100 may be printed, extruded, and/or otherwise adhered onto various substrates, e.g., a paper backing material.

[024] Fig. 2 is a schematic illustration of a plan view of susceptor 100 before and after a threshold temperature of the polymer compositions comprising the susceptor has been reached, in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present disclosure. An illustration of susceptor 100 below the threshold temperature, designated as susceptor 100a, is shown on the left. The same susceptor, depicted after the threshold temperature has been reached and potentially surpassed, is depicted on the right as susceptor 1006. Magnified views 101a and 1016 of susceptors 100a and 1006, respectively, are also shown. Susceptor 100a includes distinct regions of first polymer composition 102 and second polymer composition 104. The distinct region of first polymer composition 102 may include a network of carbon particles 106, while the distinct region of second polymer composition 104 generally lacks carbon particles 106. The material(s) comprising the first and second polymer compositions, respectively, may be immiscible at temperatures below a threshold temperature, such that the two compositions remain distinct, e.g., separate, until at least one composition begins to melt. The dimensions of first polymer composition 102 and second polymer composition 104 may vary, even between susceptors comprised of identical proportions of each polymer composition. The level of connectivity between carbon particles 106 that is necessary to generate heat may also vary. In some examples, about 30% to about 90% of the carbon particles 106 must be in contact to generate heat. In various embodiments, the proportion of contacting carbon particles necessary to generate heat may range from about 30%> to about 40%, about 35%> to about 45%, about 40% to about 50%, about 45% to about 55%, about 50% to about 60%, about 55% to about 65%, about 60% to about 70%, about 65%> to about 75%, about 70% to about 80%, about 75% to about 85%, about 80% to about 90%, about 85% to about 95%, or about 90% to about 100%. Susceptor 100i> includes second polymer composition 104 and a combined polymer matrix 108 that also includes carbon particles 106.

] As shown in Fig. 2, structural changes within susceptor 100 may occur when the polymer compositions 102, 104 have mixed (e.g., melted) together, thereb transforming susceptor 100a, which is configured to generate heat in response to microwave radiation, into susceptor 1006, which has a reduced, impeded, or eliminated ability to generate heat upon exposure to microwave radiation. For example, upon rising above a threshold temperature, first polymer composition 102 and/or second polymer composition 104 may melt, causing the compositions to mix together (at least partially), and form combined polymer matrix 108. In some examples, combined polymer matrix 108 may comprise a uniform mixture of first polymer composition 102 and second polymer composition 104. In some examples, combined polymer matrix 108 may not comprise a homogenous mixture of first polymer composition 102 and second polymer composition 104, but rather an amorphous mixture comprised of sub-regions in which the polymer compositions are more integrally mixed than others. When heating stops, combined polymer matrix 108 may become at least partially solidified, which may maintain a separation between individual carbon particles 106 such that the particles are not capable of generating heat upon continued exposure to radiation. Mixing of first polymer composition 102 with second polymer composition 104 may increase the volume of first polymer composition 102, which may disrupt the network of carbon particles 106 embedded therein such that the carbon particles 106 in combined polymer matrix 108 may no longer form a cohesive network comprised of physically contacting carbon particles, thereby reducing the ability of the carbon particles, and thus the entire susceptor 1006, to generate heat upon continued exposure to microwave radiation. In some examples, disruption of the network of carbon particles 106 may comprise separation of at least a proportion of the carbon particles, such that at least a proportion of carbon particles do not contact other carbon particles. The level of separation necessary to disrupt the network in a manner sufficient to stop heating may vary. For example, in embodiments at least about 10% to about 20%, about 15% to about 25%, about 20% to about 30%, about 25% to about 35%, about 30% to about 40%, about 35% to about 45%, about 40% to about 50%, about 45% to about 55%>, about 50% to about 60%, about 55% to about 65%, about 60% to about 70%, about 65% to about 75%, about 70% to about 80%, about 75% to about 85%, about 80% to about 90%, or about 85% to about 95% of the carbon particles are separated. Once separated, the total amount of carbon remaining in the carbon-diluted combined polymer matrix 108 may not sustain appreciable conductivity, thus transforming a previously conductive phase material that included first polymer composition 102 and a network of carbon particles 106, into an insulating phase material that includes a dispersed collection of carbon particles 106 in combined polymer matrix 108. The maximum temperature at which susceptor 100 stops (completely or partially) converting microwave radiation to heat may be controlled by selecting polymer compositions with particular melting temperatures. In this manner, susceptor 100 may be configured as a self- limiting device.

] The volume expansion of the carbon-carrying phase (first polymer composition 102 and carbon particles 106) may sufficiently break up the network of carbon particles 106 even if carbon particle settling and/or agglomeration has occurred in a susceptor, thus achieving self- limited conductivity at a consistent threshold temperature despite common manufacturing inconsistencies. In some embodiments, the volume of combined polymer matrix 108 may be at least double the volume of first polymer composition 102, although the particular extent of the volumetric increase may vary. For example, combined polymer matrix 108 may have a volume that is in a range of approximately 1.1 times larger to about 3.0 times larger than first polymer composition 102. The size of the increase in volume may depend on the relative amounts of first polymer composition 102 and/or second polymer composition 104 included in a given susceptor 100, the amount that each polymer composition melts upon crossing the threshold temperature, and/or the ability of one polymer composition to solubilize the other upon melting. One or more of these parameters may be varied to drive more dramatic and/or rapid increases in the volume of combined polymer matrix 108. In some embodiments, for example to accommodate particularly dense networks of carbon particles 106, the compositional properties of susceptor 100 may be selected to cause greater increases in the volume of combined polymer matrix 108 relative to first polymer composition 102. For example, polymer compositions with high solubility may be chosen such that first polymer composition 102 mixes thoroughly with second polymer composition 104 upon reaching a threshold temperature.

The magnitude of conductivity reduction that may occur upon reaching a threshold temperature may vary. In some embodiments, the volumetric expansion of first polymer composition 102 that occurs upon mixing with second polymer composition 104 may be sufficient to reduce or eliminate any appreciable conductivity of carbon particles 106. The reduction or elimination of appreciable conductivity may prevent susceptor 100 from increasing in temperature by more than about 10°F, about 5°F, about 3°F, about 1 °F, or about 0.5°F once a threshold temperature is reached, even if the susceptor continues to be irradiated with microwaves. In some examples, conductivity may drop by about 9 orders of magnitude upon reaching and/or surpassing a threshold temperature. In various embodiments, the magnitude of conductivity reduction may range from about 1 order of magnitude to about 20 orders of magnitude, about 4 orders of magnitude to about 16 orders of magnitude, about 8 orders of magnitude to about 12 orders of magnitude, or about 9 orders of magnitude to about 11 orders of magnitude. The magnitude of conductivity reduction of carbon particles 106 that may occur upon reaching and/or surpassing a threshold temperature may allow susceptor 100 to function properly, e.g., stop generating heat at the desired threshold temperature, even if the degree of carbon particle loading in first polymer composition varies, such that localized portions of high particle loading may still be disrupted sufficiently at the threshold temperature. In some examples, the carbon particle content may be about 20 wt% by volume of combined polymer matrix 108. The carbon particle content may vary in embodiments, ranging from about 5 wt% to about 50 wt%, about 10 wt%, to about 40 wt%, about 15 wt%, to about 30 wt%, about 18 wt%, to about 22 wt%, or about 20 wt%, to about 25 wt% by volume of combined polymer matrix 108.

[028] Threshold temperatures may vary depending at least in part on the specific composition of a particular susceptor 100. The temperature at which polymer compositions 102 and/or 104 melt (and combined polymer matrix 108 is formed), may define the threshold temperature. Generally, the threshold temperature may be defined by the melting temperature of the first and/or second polymer composition, and may be below an ignition temperature of susceptor 100, such that the susceptor may cease generating heat before it ignites. In some examples, the threshold temperature may be approximately equal to or slightly above the browning temperature for the food item(s) heated by susceptor 100. In some embodiments, first polymer composition 102 and/or second polymer composition 104 may have a melting temperature ranging from about 350°F to about 450°F, thus resulting in a threshold temperature similarly ranging from about 350°F to about 450°F. Because melting may be a dynamic process involving various interactions between first polymer composition 102 and second polymer composition 104, polymer compositions with melting temperatures outside a target threshold temperature range may be incorporated into susceptor 100. Examples may include a polymer composition having a low melting temperature (e.g., below about 350°F) paired with a polymer composition having a high melting temperature (e.g., above about 450°F). In various embodiments, melting of the low-melting temperature composition prior to the high-melting temperature composition may solubilize the high-melting temperature composition, thereby causing it to undergo a phase change even though its melting temperature may not be reached. In various examples, the melting temperature of polymer composition 102 and/or 104, and thus the threshold temperature at which susceptor 100 transitions from a first state to a second state, may range from about 250°F to about 550°F, about 275°F to about 525°F, about 300°F to about 500°F, about 325°F to about 475°F, about 350°F to about 450°F, about 375°F to about 425°F, or about 390°F to about 410°F.

[029] The two polymer compositions may be selected so that they may be phase separated in the solid phase, but mix when melted. In some embodiments, polymers with lower molecular weights may be used, which may possess lower melt viscosities and may mix more rapidly during the melt phase. First polymer composition 102 may include various substances. Polymer "compositions" are described herein, but it should be understood that compositions consisting of only one type of polymer may be included. In some embodiments, first polymer composition 102 may include polyvinylidene fluoride ("PVDF"). In addition or alternatively, first polymer composition 102 may include one or more of Nylon-6, polyamide-imide ("ΡΑΓ'), polyvinyl chloride ("PVC"), polypropylene ("PP"), polyethylene ("PE"), acetal, cellulose acetate, cellulose butyrate, and/or ethylene- vinyl acetate ("EVA"). Copolymers may also be used, either alone, e.g., a PE-PP copolymer, in blends with additional polymers, e.g., a PE-PP copolymer mixed with PP, or in various blends with other polymers. Second polymer composition 104 may also include various substances. In some examples, second polymer composition 104 may include poly(methyl methacrylate) ("PMMA"). The ratio of first polymer composition 102 to second polymer composition 104 may vary. In some examples, the ratio of first polymer composition 102 to second polymer composition 104 may range from about 1 : 1, about 2:3, about 1 :2, about 1 :4, about 2: 1, about 3 :2, or about 3 : 1.

[030] One or more additional components may be included in susceptor 100. Example components may include one or more surfactants, binders, dispersants, block polymers, and/or additional polymer compositions. One or more of these components may be integrally mixed with the first and/or second polymer compositions 102, 104. The additional component(s) may disperse carbon particles 106 in solution, reduce or expand the domain size of one or more polymer compositions, and/or enhance the compatibility of first polymer composition 102 and second polymer composition 104 upon melting.

[031] Fig. 3 is a schematic illustration of a graph of the carbon black concentration of a susceptor versus conductivity, in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present disclosure. The graph shown in Fig. 3 includes: carbon black particles 302; insulating zone 304, percolation threshold 306; and conductive zone 308.

[032] The different carbon black concentrations shown in Fig. 3 may be representative of various carbon black concentrations that may be present in a susceptor, such as susceptor 00, at particular points in time either before or after reaching a threshold temperature. For example, below a threshold temperature, carbon black particles 302 may be densely connected in conductive zone 308, where conductivity may be high even if particle density varies slightly. In conductive zone 308, carbon black particles 302 may convert microwave radiation to heat, increasing the temperature of the susceptor and any microwavable items, e.g., food products, held on/within the substrate to which the susceptor is coupled. As the temperature of the susceptor nears the threshold temperature, one or both polymer compositions, such as polymer compositions 102 and/or 104, may begin to melt, causing carbon black particles 302 to begin dispersing in the manner described above. At this stage, carbon black particles 302 may be at or near percolation threshold 306, where carbon black particles 302 may be neither isolated nor densely connected. At or near percolation threshold 306, the susceptor may be sensitive to changes in microstmcture. For example, even a slight decrease in particle density may cause a drastic decrease in conductivity. Insulating zone 304 represents an example of carbon black particle 302 density at or above the threshold temperature, at which point the susceptor may have little or no conductivity. As shown, carbon black particles 302 may be isolated from each other at this stage.

[033] Fig. 4 is a schematic illustration of a microwavable substrate coupled with multiple different susceptors arranged in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, substrate 402 may include a first susceptor 404 and a first food product 406 in a first compartment 402a, a second susceptor 408 and a second food product 410 in a second compartment 4026, a third susceptor 412 and a third food product 414 in a third compartment 402c, and a fourth susceptor 416 and fourth food product 418 in a fourth compartment 404d. The various components described in Fig. 4 are merely examples, and other variations, including eliminating components, combining components, and substituting components are all contemplated.

[034] Each food compartment may be shaped effectively to encircle the food product there within; where the corresponding shape of the compartment may be square, rectangular, round, oval, elliptical, polygonal, or any other appropriate shape as may be desired to encircle the food product. In some instances, adjacent food compartments may be coupled together with a pass- through region that facilitates sauces or other food products to pass therethrough. In some examples, the pass-through region between adjacent food compartments may be a thermally activated phase change material arranged in accordance with various aspects described herein. In embodiments, a food product may pass through a pass-through region upon melting, subsequently entering a compartment coupled with a susceptor that has already crossed a threshold temperature and thus is not generating heat. Such directional flow may prevent overheating and/or drying a food product. In some examples, the passage of a food product from a first compartment to a second compartment may leave one or more food products in the first compartment. The food product(s) remaining in the first compartment may continue to heat upon continued exposure to microwave radiation. In this manner, food products with varying heating temperatures may be initially packaged in the same food compartment and subsequently separated to direct one or more food products to compartments coupled with susceptors configured to transform from a first state to a second state at different threshold temperatures.

[035] Each susceptor shown in Fig. 4 may transition from a first, conductive state to a second state having reduced or eliminated conductivity once components of the susceptor have mixed (e.g., melted). The transition may occur at a unique threshold temperature and/or heating rate which may be unique to the susceptor in some examples. Like susceptor 00, each of susceptors 404, 408, 412, 416 shown in Fig. 4 may include a first polymer composition, a second polymer composition separate from the first polymer composition, and a conductive network of carbon particles. Because each susceptor may transition from a first state to a second state at a different threshold temperature, the specific characteristics of each susceptor may vary. For example, each susceptor may have a unique thickness, a unique combination of polymers, a unique loading of carbon particles, and/or a unique ratio of polymer compositions. By including a different susceptor in each compartment of substrate 402, different maximum temperatures may be achieved in each compartment, thereby allowing different food items to be heated simultaneously at different temperatures. Collectively, susceptors 404, 408, 412, 416 may thus heat a heterogeneous assortment of food items 406, 410, 414, 418, each with different ideal browning temperatures, in the same substrate 402 such that different foods may brown at different temperatures, despite being heated at the same intensity for the same amount of time. In some examples, at least one susceptor may be printed directly onto microwavable substrate 402. Printing the susceptors onto the substrate may allow the susceptors to be positioned in multiple different locations, e.g., on vertical or horizontal surfaces and/or in comers, that may not have been practical using existing approaches. In some embodiments, each susceptor may be printed onto a paper backing, which may be adhered to substrate 402. Each compartment 402a, 4026, 402c, 402<f shown in Fig. 4 includes a single susceptor, however, in embodiments, the number of susceptors included within each compartment may vary, ranging from 0 to about 4 susceptors.

[036] The microwavable items shown in Fig. 4 are all food products, however, in some examples one or more inedible items may be included, Microwavable substrate 402 is shown as a multi-compartmental tray in Fig. 4. In various embodiments, microwavable substrate 402 may include various containers, bags, bowls, sleeves and/or lids, onto which susceptors 404, 408, 412, and/or 16 may be attached. In embodiments, one or more adjacent compartments within a microwavable substrate 402 may be connected by one or more passageways, e.g., troughs, therebetween. In addition to form, the compositional properties of substrate 402 may vary. For instance, substrate 402 may be made of plastic, paper (e.g., wax, parchment), cardboard, glass, ceramic, and/or combinations thereof. Substrate 402 may also be covered, for example by a plastic wrap, to trap the heat generated by each susceptor within each individual compartment.

[037] Fig. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example method of forming a susceptor, in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present disclosure. An example method 500 may include one or more operations, functions, or actions illustrated by one or more of blocks 502, 504, 506, and/or 508. An example method may begin with block 502, which recites "combining a first polymer composition with a second polymer composition and a plurality of carbon black particles to form an immiscible mixture. ^' " Block 502 may be followed by block 504, which recites "hardening the immiscible mixture to form a solid matrix." Block 504 may be followed by block 506, which specifies "wherein the plurality of carbon black particles in the solid matrix is associated with the first polymer composition when a temperature of the solid matrix is below a threshold temperature." Block 506 may be followed by block 508, which specifies "wherein the plurality of carbon black particles comprises a conductive network reactive to microwave radiation to generate heat when the temperature of the solid matrix is below a threshold temperature."

[038] Block 502 recites "combining a first polymer composition with a second polymer composition and a plurality of carbon black particles to form an immiscible mixture." In some examples, combining may involve mixing the first polymer composition, the second polymer composition, and the plurality of carbon black particles in an extruder, for example as shown in Fig. 8. The extruder may apply elevated temperatures and/or pressures to the immiscible mixture. For example, some extruders may operate at a temperature of about 250°F. In embodiments, combining may involve mixing the first polymer composition with the second polymer composition at a ratio of about 1 : 1 , Some examples of combining may involve dissolving the first polymer composition and the second polymer composition in a solvent to form a solution of the immiscible mixture, adding the plurality of carbon black particles to the solution, and agitating the solution. In some examples, the first and/or second polymer composition may be dissolved in a solvent such as, for example, tetrahydrofuran. In various embodiments, a mixture of the first polymer composition and the second polymer composition may be dissolved in a solvent at a ratio of about 8 parts solvent to about 1 part polymer composition, although the specific ratio of solvent to polymer compositions may vary, ranging from about 1 : 1 :, 3 :2, 2: 1, 3 : 1, 4: 1, 5: 1, and/or about 10: 1 in some examples.

[039] Block 504 recites "hardening the immiscible mixture to form a solid matrix." In some examples, hardening the immiscible mixture may involve one or more of extruding the immiscible mixture to form an extrudate, cooling the extrudate, and/or pressing the extrudate to form the solid matrix into a flat sheet, for example as shown generally in Figs. 8 and 9. Pressing the extrudate may be accomplished using a hydrostatic press apparatus, in some examples. In some embodiments, hardening the immiscible mixture to form a solid matrix may involve printing the solution on a substrate, e.g., microwavable tray, and heating the solution to remove the solvent. Some examples may involve applying the solid matrix on a paper backing, for example using one or more adhesives. Examples may involve cutting the solid matrix in defined shapes using a slicing apparatus.

[040] Block 506 specifies "wherein the plurality of carbon black particles in the solid matrix is associated with the first polymer composition when a temperature of the solid matrix is below a threshold temperature." In various examples, at least a portion of the carbon particles may settle at an interface between the first and second compositions,

[041] Block 508 specifies "wherein the plurality of carbon black particles comprises a conductive network reactive to microwave radiation to generate heat when the temperature of the solid matrix is below a threshold temperature." In some embodiments, the network may be continuous. In some examples, the carbon black particles may form an interrupted network throughout the first polymer composition, such that the network comprises multiple, discrete sub -networks.

[042] Fig. 6 is a flowchart illustrating another example method of forming a susceptor, in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present disclosure. An example method 600 may include one or more operations, functions, or actions illustrated by one or more of blocks 602, 604, 606, 608, and/or 610. An example method may begin with block 602, which recites "admixing a plurality of carbon black particles with a first polymer composition to form a first mixture." Block 602 may be followed by block 604, which recites "diluting the first mixture with a first solvent to form a first solution." Block 604 may be followed by block 606, which recites "diluting a second polymer composition with a second solvent to form a second solution." Block 606 may be followed by block 608, which recites "printing the first solution and the second solution together in an alternating pattern to form a patchwork matrix comprised of discrete sections of a printed first solution and a printed second solution," Block 608 may be followed by block 6 0, which recites "annealing the discrete sections of the printed first solution and the printed second solution to remove the first and second solvents and form the composite susceptor."

[043] Block 602 recites "admixing a plurality of carbon black particles with a first polymer composition to form a first mixture." In some examples, the carbon black particle content of the first mixture may be about 30 wt%. The carbon black content may vary, however, ranging from about 10 wt% to about 50 wt%, about 15 wt% to about 45 wt%, about 20 wt% to about 40 wt%, about 25 wt% to about 35 wt%, or about 28 wt% to about 32 wt%. in some examples, the first polymer composition may include PVDF.

[044] Block 604 recites "diluting the first mixture with a first solvent to form a first solution "

In some embodiments, the first solvent may include dimethylacetamide.

[045] Block 606 recites "diluting a second polymer composition with a second solvent to form a second solution." In some examples, the second solvent may include tetrahydrofuran. In some embodiments, the second polymer composition may include PMMA. The ratio of the second polymer composition to the second solvent may vary. In some examples, the second polymer composition and the second solvent are mixed at a ratio of about 1 : 1, about 1 :2, about 1 :3, or about 1 :4.

[046] Block 608 recites "printing the first solution and the second solution together in an alternating pattern to form a patchwork matrix comprised of discrete sections of a printed first solution and a printed second solution." In some embodiments, printing may comprise screen printing. In some examples, printing the first solution and the second solution together in an alternating pattern to form a patchwork matrix may involve printing a checkerboard of square- shaped sections of the first solution and the second solution, for example as shown in Fig. 9, In some examples, the first and/or second solutions may be printed with an ink jet printer, which may alternately print the first solution and the second solution in immediate succession, such that no gaps exist between the discrete sections of the printed first solution and the printed second solution,

[047] Block 610 recites "annealing the discrete sections of the printed first solution and the printed second solution to remove the first and second solvents and form the composite susceptor." Annealing may involve applying heating the composite susceptor. In some examples, the composite susceptor may be laminated to a phase change material to absorb heat and maintain the temperature over time. In embodiments, the phase change material may include A164. The phase change material may have a melting temperature of about 164°C. In various examples, the melting temperature of the phase change material may vary in a range from about 140°C to about 180°C, about 145°C to about 175°C, about 150°C to about 170°C, about 155°C to about 165°C, or about 160°C to about 164°C.

[048] Fig. 7 is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a computing device that is arranged for determining compositional properties of a susceptor having a particular threshold temperature, in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present disclosure. In a very basic configuration 701, computing device 700 typically includes one or more processors 710 and system memory 720. A memory bus 730 may be used for communicating between the processor 710 and the system memory 720.

[049] Depending on the desired configuration, processor 710 may be of any type including but not limited to a microprocessor (μΡ), a microcontroller (μ€), a digital signal processor (DSP), or any combination thereof. Processor 710 may include one or more levels of caching, such as a level one cache 71 1 and a level two cache 712, a processor core 713, and registers 714. An example processor core 713 may include an arithmetic logic unit (ALU), a floating point unit (FPU), a digital signal processing core (DSP Core), or any combination thereof. An example memory controller 715 may also be used with the processor 710, or in some implementations, the memory controller 7 5 may be an internal part of the processor 710.

[050] Depending on the desired configuration, the system memory 720 may be of any type including but not limited to volatile memory (such as RAM), non-volatile memory (such as ROM, flash memory, etc.) or any combination thereof. System memory 720 may include an operating system 721, one or more applications, such as application 722, and program data 724, Application 722 may include a threshold temperature algorithm 723 that includes instructions for determining compositional properties of a susceptor, e.g., carbon black content, physical dimensions and/or polymer ratios, necessary to achieve a desired threshold temperature, examples of which are described herein. In some examples, program data 724 may include property data 725 for various components that may be included in a given susceptor. For example, property data may include data regarding physical, chemical and/or wave properties. In various embodiments, property data 725 may include carbon particle conductivity levels, microwave intensity levels, melting temperatures of various polymer compositions, and/or other information useful for calculating the number and/or distribution of carbon particles to be included in a susceptor, the thickness of a susceptor, the polymer compositions of a susceptor, and/or additional components, e.g., dispersants, to be included in a susceptor such that the polymer compositions of the susceptor mix together at a targeted threshold temperature. The rate at which the threshold temperature is reached may be varied, for example, by varying the thickness of a susceptor and/or altering the number of carbon particles included in the susceptor. The size of the polymer domains in a susceptor may also be modified to alter the rate of mixing between the polymer compositions included in a susceptor, e.g., smaller domains may mix more rapidly upon melting. In some embodiments, application 722 may be arranged to operate with program data 724 on an operating system 721 such that any of the procedures described herein may be performed. This described basic configuration is illustrated in Fig. 7 by those components within dashed line of the basic configuration 701.

] Computing device 700 may have additional features or functionality, and additional interfaces to facilitate communications between the basic configuration 701 and any required devices and interfaces. For example, a bus/interface controller 740 may be used to facilitate communications between the basic configuration 701 and one or more data storage devices 750 via a storage interface bus 741. The data storage devices 750 may be removable storage devices 751, non-removable storage devices 752, or a combination thereof. Examples of removable storage and non-removable storage devices include magnetic disk devices such as flexible disk drives and hard-disk drives (HDD), optical disk drives such as compact disk (CD) drives or digital versatile disk (DVD) drives, solid state drives (SSD), and tape drives to name a few. Example computer storage media may include volatile and non-volatile, removable and nonremovable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information, such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. ] System memory 720, removable storage 751 and non-removable storage 752 are all examples of computer storage media. Computer storage media includes, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which may be used to store the desired information and which may be accessed by computing device 700. Any such computer storage media may be part of computing device 700.

] Computing device 700 may also include an interface bus 742 for facilitating communication from various interface devices (e.g., output interfaces, peripheral interfaces, and communication interfaces) to the basic configuration 701 via the bus/interface controller 740. Example output devices 760 include a graphics processing unit 761 and an audio processing unit 762, which may communicate with various external devices such as a display or speakers via one or more A/V ports 763 , Example peripheral interfaces 770 include a serial interface controller 771 or a parallel interface controller 772, which may communicate with external devices such as input devices (e.g., keyboard, mouse, pen, voice input device, touch input device, etc.) or other peripheral devices (e.g., printer, scanner, etc.) via one or more I/O ports 773. An example communication device 780 includes a network controller 781 , which may be arranged to facilitate communications with one or more other computing devices 790 over a network communication link via one or more communication ports 782. In various embodiments, a user may interface with an extrusion apparatus or screen printer over a wired or wireless connection with computing device 700. For example, a user may input printing instructions, directly at computing device 700 using, for example, an input device such as a keyboard, mouse, pen, voice input device, touch input device, etc. In some examples, a user may input printing instructions from a remote location using one or more other computing devices 790 in communication with computing device 700 via a wireless connection established and/or controlled by communication device 780.

] The network communication link ma be one example of a communication media.

Communication media may typically be embodied by computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data in a modulated data signal, such as a carrier wave or other transport mechanism, and may include any information delivery media. A "modulated data signal" may be a signal that has one or more of its characteristics set or changed in such a manner as to encode information in the signal. By way of example, and not limitation, communication media may include wired media such as a wired network or direct-wired connection, and wireless media such as acoustic, radio frequency (RF), microwave, infrared (IR) and other wireless media. The term computer readable media as used herein may include both storage media and communication media.

[055] Computing device 700 may be implemented as a portion of a small-form factor portable

(or mobile) electronic device such as a ceil phone, a personal data assistant (PDA), a personal media player device, a wireless web-watch device, a personal headset device, an application specific device, or a hybrid device that include any of the above functions. Computing device 700 may also be implemented as a personal computer including both laptop computer and non- laptop computer configurations.

[056] Fig. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example method of forming a susceptor with an extrusion system. As shown, an extrusion system 800 may include: a mixer 802; a conditioner 804; an extaider barrel 806; a rotating screw 808; an extruder die 810 through which extrudate 812 may exit, cutting or slicing blades 814; a cooling and/or drying apparatus 816; and a pressing apparatus 818. A first polymer composition 820; a second polymer composition 822; a plurality of carbon black particles 824; and a fiat sheet susceptor 826 are also shown. The various components described in Fig. 8 are merely examples, and other variations, including eliminating components, combining components, adding components, modifying components, and substituting components are all contemplated.

[057] In some examples, first polymer composition 820, second polymer composition 822 and carbon black particles 824 may be combined in mixer 802 to form an immiscible mixture therein. In some embodiments, one or more of the initial components 820, 822, 824 may be mixed directly in conditioner 804 or extruder barrel 806. In some examples, mixer 802, conditioner 804 and/or extaider barrel 806 may apply elevated temperatures and/or pressures to facilitate thorough mixing. Moisture may also be injected into one or more of mixer 802, conditioner 804 and/or extruder barrel 806. Rotating screw 808 may provide mechanical agitation to facilitate additional mixing.

[058] After thoroughly combining the mixture, it may be hardened via extrusion. For example, at the end of extruder barrel 806, the mixture may be forced from extaider barrel 806 by rotating screw 808 through openings defined by extruder die 810. Nascent extrudate 812, which may be in the form of a solid matrix, may emerge from the openings of extruder die 810 and in some examples, sliced by blades 814. In embodiments, extrudate 812 may then be cooled and/or dried in cooling and/or drying apparatus 816. To form extrudate 812 into flat sheet susceptor 826, the extrudate may then be pressed in pressing apparatus 818, which may be hydrostatic in some examples.

[059] Fig. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example method of forming a susceptor with a printing system. As shown, a printing system 900 may include a mixer 902; a printing device 904; and a heat source 906. A first polymer composition 908; a second polymer composition 910, a plurality of carbon black particles 912; a solvent 914; a solution 916; a printed susceptor 918; a substrate 920; and an adhesive 922 are also shown. The various components described in Fig. 9 are merely examples, and other variations, including eliminating components, combining components, adding components, modifying components, and substituting components are all contemplated,

[060] In some examples, first polymer composition 908 and second polymer composition 910 may be combined by dissolving the first polymer composition and the second polymer composition in solvent 914, e.g., tetrahydrofuran, to form a solution of the immiscible mixture contained within mixer 902. In some examples, the plurality of carbon black particles 912 may then be added to the solution. In some embodiments, the carbon black particles 912 may be added to solvent 914 before or concurrently with one or both polymer compositions 908, 910. Mixer 902 may be configured to agitate (indicated with expanding parentheses adjacent mixer 902) the mixture as the initial components 908, 910, 912 are added, or after ail components are added to solvent 914.

[061] In some examples, the resulting solution 916 may then be hardened to form a solid matrix. Hardening the solution 916 may involve, in some embodiments, printing the solution via printing device 904 to form printed susceptor 918. In some examples, printed susceptor 918 may be printed directly onto substrate 920, which may be a container, bag, tray, bowl, sleeve, or lid. To remove any residual solvent, solution 916, either before or after printing, may also be heated via heat source 906. In some examples, printed susceptor 918 may be applied to substrate 920 using one or more adhesives 922. As further shown, printed susceptor 918 may also be formed as a patchwork matrix that includes a checkerboard of square-shaped sections of the first and second solution. Such a patterned matrix may be formed via the method illustrated in Fig. 6, for example,

[062] The present disclosure is not to be limited in terms of the particular examples described in this application, which are intended as illustrations of various aspects. Many modifications and examples can be made without departing from its spirit and scope, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Functionally equivalent methods and apparatuses within the scope of the disclosure, in addition to those enumerated herein, will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing descriptions. Such modifications and examples are intended to fall within the scope of the appended claims. The present disclosure is to be limited only by the terms of the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. It is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to particular methods, reagents, compounds compositions or biological systems, which can, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular examples only, and is not intended to be limiting.

[063] With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singular terms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from the plural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and/or application. The various singular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity,

[064] It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as "open" terms (e.g., the term "including" should be interpreted as "including but not limited to," the term "having" should be interpreted as "having at least," the term "includes" should be interpreted as "includes but is not limited to," etc.).

[065] It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation, no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases "at least one" and "one or more" to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles "a" or "an" limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to examples containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases "one or more" or "at least one" and indefinite articles such as "a" or "an" (e.g., "a" and/or "an" should he interpreted to mean "at least one" or "one or more"); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of "two recitations," without other modifiers, means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations).

] Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to "at least one of A, B, and C, etc." is used, in general, such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., "a system having at least one of A, B, and C" would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that virtual ly any disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase "A or B" will be understood to include the possibilities of "A" or "B" or "A and B "

] In addition, where features or aspects of the disclosure are described in terms of Markush groups, those skilled in the art will recognize that the disclosure is also thereby described in terms of any individual member or subgroup of members of the Markush group.

] As will be understood by one skilled in the art, for any and ail purposes, such as in terms of providing a written description, all ranges disclosed herein also encompass any and all possible subranges and combinations of subranges thereof. Any listed range can be easily recognized as sufficiently describing and enabling the same range being broken down into at least equal halves, thirds, quarters, fifths, tenths, etc. As a non-limiting example, each range discussed herein can be readily broken down into a lower third, middle third and upper third, etc. As will also be understood by one skilled in the art all language such as "up to," "at least," "greater than," "less than," and the like include the number recited and refer to ranges which can be subsequently broken down into subranges as di scussed above. Final ly, as will be understood by one skilled in the art, a range includes each individual member. Thus, for example, a group having 1-3 items refers to groups having 1, 2, or 3 items. Similarly, a group having 1-5 items refers to groups having 1 , 2, 3, 4, or 5 items, and so forth.

[069] While the foregoing detailed description has set forth various examples of the devices and/or processes via the use of block diagrams, flowcharts, and/or examples, such block diagrams, flowcharts, and/or examples contain one or more functions and/or operations, it will be understood by those within the art that each function and/or operation within such block diagrams, flowcharts, or examples can be implemented, individually and/or collectively, by a wide range of hardware, software, firmware, or virtually any combination thereof In one example, several portions of the subject matter described herein may be implemented via Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs), Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), digital signal processors (DSPs), or other integrated formats. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that some aspects of the examples disclosed herein, in whole or in part, can be equivalently implemented in integrated circuits, as one or more computer programs running on one or more computers (e.g., as one or more programs running on one or more computer systems), as one or more programs running on one or more processors (e.g., as one or more programs running on one or more microprocessors), as firmware, or as virtually any combination thereof, and that designing the circuitry and/or writing the code for the software and/or firmware would be well within the skill of one of skill in the art in light of this disclosure. For example, if a user determines that speed and accuracy are paramount, the user may opt for a mainly hardware and/or firmware vehicle; if flexibility is paramount, the user may opt for a mainly software implementation; or, yet again alternatively, the user may opt for some combination of hardware, software, and/or firmware.

[070] In addition, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the mechanisms of the subject matter described herein are capable of being distributed as a program product in a variety of forms, and that an illustrative example of the subject matter described herein applies regardless of the particular type of signal bearing medium used to actually cany out the distribution. Examples of a signal bearing medium include, but are not limited to, the following: a recordable type medium such as a floppy disk, a hard disk drive (HDD), a Compact Disc (CD), a Digital Video Disk (DVD), a digital tape, a computer memory, etc., and a transmission type medium such as a digital and/or an analog communication medium (e.g., a fiber optic cable, a waveguide, a wired communication link, a wireless communication link, etc.). ] Those skilled in the art will recognize that it is common within the art to describe devices and/or processes in the fashion set forth herein, and thereafter use engineering practices to integrate such described devices and/or processes into data processing systems. That is, at least a portion of the devices and/or processes described herein can be integrated into a data processing system via a reasonable amount of experimentation. Those having skill in the art will recognize that a typical data processing system generally includes one or more of a system unit housing, a video display device, a memory such as volatile and non-volatile memory, processors such as microprocessors and digital signal processors, computational entities such as operating systems, drivers, graphical user interfaces, and applications programs, one or more interaction devices, such as a touch pad or screen, and/or control systems including feedback loops and control motors (e.g., feedback for sensing position and/or velocity; control motors for moving and/or adjusting components and/or quantities). A typical data processing system may be implemented utilizing any suitable commercially available components, such as those typically found in data computing/communication and/or network computing/communication systems.

] The herein described subject matter sometimes illustrates different components contained within, or connected with, different other components. It is to be understood that such depicted architectures are merely examples, and that in fact many other architectures can be implemented which achieve the same functionality. In a conceptual sense, any arrangement of components to achieve the same functionality is effectively "associated" such that the desired functionality is achieved. Hence, any two components herein combined to achieve a particular functionality can be seen as "associated with" each other such that the desired functionality is achieved, irrespective of architectures or intermedial components. Likewise, any two components so associated can also be viewed as being "operably connected", or "operably coupled", to each other to achieve the desired functionality, and any two components capable of being so associated can also be viewed as being "operably couplable", to each other to achieve the desired functionality. Specific examples of operably couplable include but are not limited to physically mateable and/or physically interacting components and/or wirelessiy interactable and/or wirelessiy interacting components and/or logically interacting and/or logically interactable components,

] While various aspects and examples have been disclosed herein, other aspects and examples will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and examples disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims.