Abstract:
Features for assembling a physical boundary are disclosed. The boundary may be used in a variety of physical activities, including a pit for Ga-Ga ball. The boundary is made up of panels that can be stowed for transportation and then deployed to form the boundary. The panels are coupled together and secured to the ground using posts. The posts can secure directly to the ground or to supports. The panels may include a variety of features, including windows, ports, pockets, stiffeners, tensioners, and entry ways. An access such as a zipper in the panels may be opened and closed to provide an entry way. The panels and posts can be stored in a portable kit and deployed in a place of interest, such as a park. The assembly can then be broken down, stored as a portable kit, and transported. Associated methods of assembling and use are also disclosed.

Description:
INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE TO ANY PRIORITY APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    Any and all applications for which a foreign or domestic priority claim is identified in the Application Data Sheet as filed with the present application are hereby incorporated by reference under 37 CFR 1.57. 
         [0002]    This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/890,099, filed Oct. 11, 2013, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND 
       [0003]    1. Technical Field 
         [0004]    The present technology relates to boundaries, specifically, portable boundaries and barriers, in which sports and games can be played. Related systems and methods of assembly are also disclosed. 
         [0005]    2. Description of the Related Art 
         [0006]    In the U.S., many schools are reducing recess and gym activities, and the overall population is growing increasingly sedentary and overweight. Now, more than ever before, it is important to reduce barriers to physical activity. There is a need for games that can be played quickly, easily, and nearly anywhere, which get people of all ages and abilities moving. 
         [0007]    Many games require a demarcation of some kind to identify the boundaries of the playing field, court, pit, or course. In designated sports facilities, the demarcations often include lines, walls, and/or fences. It can be challenging to play many games outside of designated sports facilities, such as in a yard or open field, due to difficulties that exist in trying to define the physical boundaries of the games. 
         [0008]    For example, in Ga-ga, a sport of increasing popularity, a wall is needed to define the boundary of the Ga-ga pit, and ideally, to also allow ricochet of the ball during play. Ga-ga has few rules and is easy to learn; it can be played by children and adults of nearly all ages and athletic abilities, and it is a short, fast-paced game that can be played by many participants at once. For at least these reasons, it is becoming a favorite game at schools and summer camps. The game itself requires no more than a bounceable ball, such as a playground ball; however, the ability to play Ga-ga is limited by the need for the pit-defining wall. 
         [0009]    Current Ga-ga pits are generally permanent or semi-permanent in nature. In Ga-ga, the pit is typically octagonal or hexagonal in shape with each of the eight or six wall panels generally ranging from 2-5 feet in height and 6-9 feet in length. Installation of a pit of such dimensions is generally time- and cost-intensive. Even semi-permanent or “portable” Ga-ga pits on the market generally require assembly of a series of bulky 6-9 foot-long panels made of wood or a relatively rigid plastic or composite material. Summer camps looking for a more portable solution have been known to place a series of picnic tables on their sides to form the octagonal pit. Creating a pit in such a manner can be strenuous and is impractical in many settings. Further, portable Ga-ga pits on the market are not multipurpose and typically are made only for playing Ga-ga and serve no other significant fitness needs. There therefore exists a need for a user-friendly, portable fitness structure, which can be easily set up and taken down by a single person without the need for strenuous effort or large vehicles to transport. Further, there exists a need for such a structure that can serve multiple purposes, for instance as a Ga-ga pit but also as more general purpose exercise walls. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0010]    The systems and methods described herein each have several aspects, no single one of which is solely responsible for its desirable attributes. Without limiting the scope of this disclosure as expressed by the claims that follow, the more prominent features will now be discussed briefly. After considering this discussion, and particularly after reading the section entitled “Detailed Description,” one will understand how the sample features described herein provide for improved boundaries and barriers for Ga-ga, fitness obstacle courses, and other physical activities. 
         [0011]    Due to an increasing interest in Ga-ga, a need exists for a Ga-ga pit boundary that allows Ga-ga to be played recreationally by friends and families, for example, in backyards, parks, and other open spaces. A need exists for a Ga-ga pit boundary that is quick to assemble and truly portable. A need also exists for a Ga-ga pit boundary that is affordable for families and individual consumers. The systems, devices, and methods described herein may address one or more of the aforementioned needs. Embodiments described herein relate to portable boundaries in which sports and games, such as Ga-ga, can be played. 
         [0012]    One aspect of the disclosure is directed towards a system for defining the boundaries of a playing field. In some embodiments, the system comprises a plurality of deployable panels. Each panel may have a height of about 2-5 feet and a length of about 3-12 feet. Each panel is configured to collapse and deploy and has a top edge, a bottom edge, two side edges, and at least one sleeve coupled to each side edge. There are also a plurality of rigid support posts, with each post having a top portion and a bottom portion, and wherein each post extends at least the height of each side edge and is configured to mate with at least one sleeve and a plurality of foundations. Each foundation is configured to secure the bottom of each support post wherein the plurality of panels and the plurality of posts are moveable between multiple configurations, and wherein, in one configuration, the walls form a boundary defining a playing field. 
         [0013]    In other embodiments of the first aspect, each sleeve comprises a plurality of loops and/or forms a tube of material along the height of each side edge. 
         [0014]    In other embodiments of the first aspect, each panel is comprised of polyester, canvas, or other flexible polymer, fabric, or composite material. 
         [0015]    In other embodiments of the first aspect, each foundation comprises a spike, an auger, a threaded end, or a pointed tip affixed to a bottom portion of the post and configured to be pierced or screwed into the ground or into a support. The support may further comprise a mount defining a cavity configured to receive a bottom end of the post, and the mount configured to secure the bottom end of the support post in place via friction fit, snap fit, or threading. 
         [0016]    In other embodiments of the first aspect, the system may be in a configuration such that the panels form an enclosed hexagon, or the system may comprise eight panels and eight posts and the panels may form an enclosed octagon. In octagonal or other embodiments, one panel may be an access panel comprised of a long section and a short section, such that, in one configuration, the panels form an octagon comprising an access area along the access panel for entering and exiting the boundary. 
         [0017]    In other embodiments of the first aspect, the system may have at least a portion of at least one panel that is transparent, and/or at least one panel including a port or moveable flap portion. Some embodiments may further comprise at least one anchor coupled to a bottom portion of at least one panel, and the anchor may comprise a pointed tip configured for securement into the ground. 
         [0018]    In other embodiments of the first aspect, some embodiments may have at least one panel that comprises a pocket, and the system may further comprise an insert removably disposed within the pocket. 
         [0019]    In other embodiments of the first aspect, some embodiments may further comprise a flexible flooring sheet positioned between, and substantially enclosed by, the plurality of panels. 
         [0020]    In other embodiments of the first aspect, some embodiments may have at least one panel comprising a zipper. 
         [0021]    In other embodiments of this first aspect, the system may comprise a net. The system may further comprise a plurality of net segments, wherein each net segment is configured to collapse and deploy, and wherein each net segment has a net top edge, a net bottom edge, and two net side edges, and a plurality of rigid net support posts or extensions, wherein each extension has a top post portion and a bottom post portion, and wherein each extension extends at least the height of each net side edge and is configured to mate with at least two net side edges. In some embodiments, the bottom portion of the extension is configured to mate with the top portion of the rigid support posts. In some embodiments, the system further comprises a cross brace configured to couple with the support posts or with the extensions, and the cross brace may be configured to clamp to the net and comprises a length that is adjustable. 
         [0022]    A second aspect of the disclosure is directed towards a portable kit for defining the boundaries of a playing field. In some embodiments, the kit comprises a system for defining the boundaries of a playing field, wherein the deployable panels are configured to be rolled into a compact state, and a carrying case sized to enclose and carry the system. 
         [0023]    In some embodiments of the second aspect, the carrying case is a shoulder bag, the kit is further comprising a post-driving insertion tool, the kit is further comprising a wall angle placement guide, the kit is further comprising a plurality of support bases, and/or the kit is further comprising a removable, flexible flooring sheet. 
         [0024]    A third aspect of the disclosure is directed towards a method of assembling a system for defining the boundaries of a playing field. In some embodiments, the method comprises removing a playing field boundary from a carrying case, the playing field boundary comprising a plurality of panels and a plurality of support posts, unrolling or otherwise deploying the plurality of panels, inserting a first support post through a first sleeve coupled to a first side edge of a first panel, securing a bottom end of the first support post into the ground or into a first support base, extending the first panel, inserting a second support post through a second sleeve coupled to a second side edge of the first panel, securing a bottom end of the second support post into the ground or into a second support base, extending a second panel at an angle relative to the first panel, wherein the second panel is coupled to the second support post, and extending the remaining panels, inserting the remaining posts, and securing them in like manner to form the boundaries of the playing field. 
         [0025]    In other embodiments of the third aspect, the method further comprises driving support anchors connected to one or more of the panels. 
         [0026]    In other embodiments of the third aspect, the method further comprises inserting one or more support beams into one or more pockets of one or more of the panels. 
         [0027]    In other embodiments of the third aspect, the method further comprises attaching net segments above each of the panels by inserting a post attached to two net segment side edges into a top portion of a respective support post. 
         [0028]    In other embodiments of the third aspect, the method further comprises attaching a clamp of a cross brace to the posts and adjusting the cross brace to further extend and tighten the panels. 
         [0029]    In another aspect, a system for defining a boundary is disclosed. The system comprises a plurality of deployable panels, a plurality of posts, and a plurality of foundations. Each panel is configured to collapse and deploy, each post is configured to couple with at least one edge of at least one panel, each foundation is configured to couple a bottom portion of each post with the ground. The plurality of panels and the plurality of posts are moveable between multiple configurations, and, in at least one configuration, the panels define the boundary. 
         [0030]    These are just some of the potential features of the boundary and related systems and methods. The foregoing is a summary and thus contains, by necessity, simplifications, generalizations, and omissions of detail; consequently, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. Any particular boundary, system, or method may have some or all of these features or additional or alternative features. Other aspects, features, and advantages described herein will become apparent in the teachings that follow. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0031]    The above-mentioned aspects, as well as other features, aspects, and advantages of the present technology will now be described in connection with various embodiments, with reference to the accompanying drawings. The illustrated embodiments, however, are merely examples and are not intended to be limiting. 
           [0032]      FIG. 1  is a schematic perspective view of one embodiment of a boundary for physical activities. 
           [0033]      FIG. 2A  is a schematic top view of the boundary of  FIG. 1 . 
           [0034]      FIG. 2B  is a schematic top view of one embodiment of a boundary for physical activities having an opening near a vertex of the boundary. 
           [0035]      FIG. 2C  is a schematic top view of another embodiment of a boundary for physical activities having an opening away from a vertex of the boundary. 
           [0036]      FIG. 2D  is a schematic top view of an additional embodiment of a boundary for physical activities with a floor cover. 
           [0037]      FIG. 3A  is a schematic top view of one embodiment of a boundary for physical activities. In the depicted embodiment, the fitness/playing area is hexagonal. 
           [0038]      FIG. 3B  is a schematic top view of another embodiment of a boundary for physical activities. In the depicted embodiment, the fitness/playing area is pentagonal. 
           [0039]      FIG. 3C  is a schematic top view of an additional embodiment of a boundary for physical activities. In the depicted embodiment, the fitness/playing area is rectangular. 
           [0040]      FIG. 4A  is a schematic view of a wall panel in one embodiment of a boundary for physical activities. 
           [0041]      FIG. 4B  is a schematic view of a wall panel in another embodiment of a boundary for physical activities. 
           [0042]      FIG. 4C  is a schematic view of a wall panel with tensioning systems in another embodiment of a boundary for physical activities. 
           [0043]      FIG. 5A  is a schematic top view of one embodiment of a support post. 
           [0044]      FIG. 5B  is a schematic cross-section of one embodiment of a support post, wherein the cross-section is viewed along the cut line shown in  FIG. 5A . 
           [0045]      FIG. 6A  is a schematic side view of one embodiment of a support post insertion tool. 
           [0046]      FIG. 6B  is a schematic top view of one embodiment of a support post insertion tool. 
           [0047]      FIG. 7  is a schematic perspective view of one embodiment of a support base. 
           [0048]      FIG. 8  is a schematic perspective view of one embodiment of a boundary for physical activities, wherein the boundary includes a top net. 
           [0049]      FIG. 9A  is a schematic representation of one embodiment of mechanisms used to secure a top net to a support post of the boundary embodiment. 
           [0050]      FIG. 9B  is a schematic representation of one embodiment of mechanisms used to secure a top net to a support post of the boundary embodiment. 
           [0051]      FIG. 9C  is a schematic representation of one embodiment of mechanisms used to tension the top net to the support post of the boundary embodiment. 
           [0052]      FIG. 10  is a schematic top view of one embodiment of a boundary for physical activities, wherein the walls have been moved into an alternate configuration for use as a fitness obstacle course. 
           [0053]      FIGS. 11A-11B  are various views of a boundary opening. 
           [0054]      FIG. 12  is a side view of an embodiment of a boundary with triangular end panels. 
           [0055]      FIG. 13  is a flowchart showing an embodiment of a method for assembling a boundary. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0056]    In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the present disclosure. The illustrative embodiments described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not meant to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilized, and other changes may be made, without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented here. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein and illustrated in the FIGS., can be arranged, substituted, combined, and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are explicitly contemplated and form part of this disclosure. For example, a system or boundary may be implemented or a method may be practiced using any number of the aspects set forth herein. In addition, such a system or boundary may be implemented or such a method may be practiced using other structure, functionality, or structure and functionality in addition to, or other than, one or more of the aspects set forth herein. 
         [0057]      FIG. 1  illustrates an embodiment of portable physical activity panels  110  set up to form a boundary  100 . In this embodiment, the boundary  100  is defined by a collection of one or more panels  110 . The boundary  100  may in addition or alternatively be comprised of other wall elements or side surfaces. The panels  110  may partially or fully bound a space  140 . As shown, the four-sided panels  110  are arranged to substantially or fully enclose the space  140  on the inside of the boundary  100 . Eight panels  110  are shown such that the boundary  100  substantially forms an octagon. The panels  110  may be of substantially equivalent length. However, many configurations and sizes are possible. Further, the panels  100  need not all be exactly the same length, and the boundary  100  may still be formed. The interior space  140  of the boundary is empty and does not contain any panels  110 . A surface  142  on which the panels are set up is merely enclosed by the panels. The surface  142  may be grass, dirt, mulch, or some other natural material. The surface  142  could also be some firmer, man-made material, such as concrete, asphalt, wood, or rubber. Many other possibilities exist for the surface on which the panels are set up, including a combination of multiple surfaces  142 . The surface (or surfaces)  142  needs to provide enough area for the panels  110  to be set up. Further, the surface  142  may also be covered, as is further discussed below. 
         [0058]    The boundary in  FIG. 1  may be used for physical activities. For instance, the boundary may serve as a Ga-ga pit or Ga-ga boundary for a game of Ga-ga. The inside of the eight panels  110  in  FIG. 1  provide side surfaces against which a Ga-ga ball may be bounced. The panels  110  also provide a perimeter inside which the players of Ga-ga must remain. Further, if spectators are watching the game, the panels  110  will provide a perimeter to protect them from being struck by the ball or by the players. 
         [0059]    The boundary  100  is shown in  FIG. 1  after the panels  110  have been deployed and the boundary  100  assembled to the configuration shown. The panels  110  are joined to one another by means of a post  130  that couples with sleeves (not shown in  FIG. 1 , see  FIGS. 4A-4C ) on the left and right sides  118 ,  120  of each panel  110 . These post  130  and sleeve couplings are located at the vertices of the octagon in  FIG. 1 , or the locations where one panel  110  meets another. Further, the bottom of each post  130  is secured to the ground  10  using a foundation (not shown in  FIG. 1 , see  FIGS. 4A-4C ). The foundation may take a variety of forms, as is discussed further below, depending on the surface  142  on which the boundary  100  is set up. For disassembly, the posts  130  and individual panels  110  may be separated and the posts  130  and panels  110  collapsed. Each post  130  and panel  110  is lightweight, making it easy to transport most or all of them in a single carrying case or bag. The panels  110  may collapse in numerous ways, for instance by rolling up. 
         [0060]    To deploy the panels  110 , they would then simply be unrolled and then assembled with the posts  130  to form the boundary  100 . The posts  130  may also be collapsible and deployable, for instance in a telescoping structure, or the posts  130  may also be a single, unitary structure of a single length. Further details of these and other structures are provided below. 
         [0061]    As further shown in  FIG. 1 , the panels  110  may have an upper edge  114  and/or a lower edge  116 . The upper edge  114  may be a section or segment of the panel  110  along the top of the panel  110 . The upper edge  114  may in addition or alternatively be a separate feature coupled with the panel  110 , such as a thickened section of the panel  110 , an elongated seam along the edge, a reinforcement for the panel  110 , etc. The lower edge  116  may be similar to the upper edge  114  except it may be located along the bottom of the panel  110 . The lower edge  116  may therefore be located opposite the upper edge  114 . In between the upper and lower edges  114 ,  116  may be a panel center  112 . The center  112  may be the center or middle portion of the panel  110 . The center  112  may also include other features coupled with the panel  110 , such as extra fabric or signs, such as advertising. 
         [0062]    A top view of an embodiment of a boundary  200  is shown in  FIG. 2A . As shown, in the depicted top view, the boundary  200  is fully enclosed on all sides by eight panels. Three consecutive panels are labelled as panels  211 ,  212  and  213 , with corresponding lengths L 1 , L 2  and L 3 . In some embodiments, L 1 =L 2 =L 3 . In other embodiments, the lengths L 1 , L 2  and L 3  may all be different from each other. Other configurations may be implemented, such as L 1 =L 2 ≠L 3 . The panels may form interior angles with respect to each other. As shown, the panels form angles A 1 , A 2 , A 3  and A 4 . In particular, angle A 2  is formed by panels  211  and  212 , angle A 3  is formed by panels  212  and  213 , and angles A 1  and A 4  are at the ends of panels  211  and  213 , respectively. In some embodiments, A 1 =A 2 =A 3 =A 4 . However, other configurations are possible. For instance, A 1 =A 4 ≠A 2 =A 3 . These are merely examples and a variety of angular orientations of the panels may be implemented. 
         [0063]      FIGS. 2B and 2C  depict top views of the boundary  200  with a removable or offset access panel  216 , to allow for ingress and egress into the space  240  defined by the boundary  200 . As shown in  FIG. 2B , the access panel  216  may be a part of one of the panels  210 , such that the access panel  216  is shorter than the other panels  210 . The access panel  216  is shown at the end of the shorter stationary portion  214  of the panel  210 , where one side of the access panel  216  forms a vertex of the boundary  200  and the other side couples with the stationary portion  214 . The access panel  216  may also be positioned with a different panel  210  and/or in a different location along the panel  210 . For instance,  FIG. 2C  depicts the access panel  216  substantially near the center of the panel  210  of the boundary  200 . In such an embodiment, the access panel  216  couples with two shorter stationary portions  214  of the panel  210  on either side of the access panel  216 . 
         [0064]    Players or other users of the boundary  200  may enter and exit the boundary  200  in a variety of ways. In embodiments such as those shown in  FIG. 2A , players or users of the boundary  200  may simply step or climb over the walls to enter and leave the space  240  or, as described in more detail below, they may climb through one or more openings, such as port holes, located within the panels. For embodiments such as those shown in  FIGS. 2B and 2C , the players or users may enter through an opening  241  defined by the access panel  216 . The access panel  216  is shown on an eight-sided boundary  200 , but it may be included in any embodiment, for instance a six-sided boundary  200 , and the access panel  216  may be near a vertex, centered on a panel  210 , or in any other location along any panel  210 . The access panel  216  could likewise be between two panels  210  such that another side is introduced to the structure. For example, two panels  210  of the boundary  200  could be made shorter and the access panel  216  could join the two shortened panels  210 , thereby introducing a new side to the structure. Further, multiple access panels  216  could be included in a single boundary  200  and/or on a single panel  210 , for example one access panel  216  could be an entrance and the other access panel  216  an exit. 
         [0065]    An embodiment of the boundary  200  with a floor cover  242  is shown in  FIG. 2D . With the portable design of various embodiments, the boundary  200  can be assembled for play in a variety of environments and on a variety of playing surfaces  142 , such as, for example, dirt, grass, sand, pea gravel, or asphalt. In some embodiments, a flexible, removable floor cover  242  is provided. Such a floor cover  242  may be laid down within the boundary  200  to provide a relatively smooth and hard surface for use when playing on a soft and uneven surface, such as sand or pea gravel. The cover  242  may be a plastic fabric or other such suitable material that can be enclosed by the panels  210 . The cover  242  need not have the exact same shape of the assembled panels  210 . Preferably the cover  242  allows for coverage of all of the interior floor space of a boundary  200 , but it may provide coverage that is less than or more than the enclosed or bounded area. Further, the cover  242  may attach to the boundary  200 , such as to the panels  210 . In such embodiments, the cover  242  may attach to some or all of the panels  210 , and/or to some or all of the posts  130 . The cover  242  may also merely be laid down inside the boundary  200  and not be attached to any structure. 
         [0066]    Some embodiments have eight walls, which form an enclosed boundary having the shape of an octagon, as shown, for example, in  FIGS. 1-2D . However, in other embodiments, the boundary may have any number of walls. In some embodiments, the boundary has between four and eight walls. For example, as shown in  FIG. 3A , in some embodiments, the boundary  300  includes six walls formed by six panels  310  such that a substantially hexagonal boundary  300  may be formed. In other embodiments, the system has five panels  310  forming a substantially pentagonal boundary  300  as depicted in  FIG. 3B , or it may have four panels  310  forming a substantially rectangular boundary  300  as depicted in  FIG. 3C . Any features described for any of these or other embodiments may also be part of any other embodiments. For instance, the embodiments in  FIGS. 3A-3C  may also have access panels and ground covers. It is further understood that the boundary  300  could have more than eight sides or fewer than four, for example it may have three, seven, nine, ten, eleven, twelve, thirteen, fourteen, fifteen, twenty, thirty, fifty, one hundred, or other numbers of sides. 
         [0067]      FIG. 4A  illustrates a close up side view of a panel  410  of a boundary  400 . A central panel  410  is depicted parallel to the viewing plane, with panels  410  on either side at angles to the viewing plane. A net  460  is shown attached to the top of the panels  410 . The central panel  410  has posts  430  on either side that couple the panel  410  to the other flanking panels  410 , and foundations  434  at the bottom of the posts  430 . At the center of the central panel  410  is an access  440 , which may be a zipper, button or other access feature, that allows the panel  410  to be opened and/or closed. At the bottom portion of the panel  410  is an bottom tensioning system  450 , such as an auger system, that tensions the panel  410  and further secures it to the ground  10 . 
         [0068]    The panel  410  is depicted in  FIG. 4A  with an access  440  as a zipper down the center, but the panel  410  may also be a unitary structure without any access  440 . In either case, the overall dimensions of the individual panel  410  are typically 2-5 feet high and 3-12 feet long. The panel  410  has an upper edge  414 , a lower edge  416 , a left edge  418  and a right edge  420 . The upper edge  414  is shown in  FIG. 4A  attached to a net  460 . The two side edges  418 ,  420  are shown coupled to other panels  410  by posts  430 . The lower edge  416  is shown with tensioning system  450  attached thereto. The two side edges  418 ,  420  of the panel  410  contain sleeves  432 , discussed further below, that allow the posts  430  to couple to the panel  410  and allow the panels  410  to couple to each other. 
         [0069]    The posts  430  are generally as long as the side edges  418 ,  420  of the panels  410  are high, with extra length at the bottom for the foundations  434  and possible extra length at the top. In some embodiments, the posts  430  are a single, unitary structure with a fixed length. In other embodiments, the posts  430  are adjustable structures of varying height, for instance telescoping structures that shorten for transport and lengthen for installation and assembly. The posts  430  in some embodiments are made of separate shorter post segments that detach from each other for transport and reattach for installation and assembly, for instance by screwing or snapping together. 
         [0070]    The panel  410  depicted in  FIG. 4A  is made up of a lightweight, collapsible material, such as polyester, canvas, or other flexible polymer, fabric, or composite. The panel  410  may be any material that allows for collapsing and deploying of the panels  410  for easy transport and setup. The panels  410  may therefore be fully opaque or fully transparent, or anywhere in between. While fully opaque panels  410  would provide for the most privacy for those inside the boundary  400 , the fully transparent panels  410  would provide spectators a better view of the activities inside the boundary  400 . For shorter panels  410 , where the view is not very obstructed, the transparency of the panel  410  may not be critical. But for taller panels  410 , transparency is more important. This is especially so in the context of schools where teachers and staff need to keep an eye on the children as they play inside the boundary  400 . 
         [0071]      FIG. 4B  depicts an embodiment of a panel  410  with various modifications for viewing and/or access. The left side of the central panel  410  depicted contains a window  441 , which may be transparent. The window  441  is an oval shape, but may be any shape, and may allow for full viewing into and out of the boundary  400 . The window  441  could provide a spectator a means to watch the activity inside the boundary  400 . The window  441  may be of any material that is suitable for the panel  410  itself, and it may be the same or a different material as the panel  410  itself, such as plexiglass or some other hard plastic. 
         [0072]    Another modification to the central panel  410  is the port  411  shown in  FIG. 4B  on the right side of the central panel  410 . The port  411  is shown with an optional removable segment  442 . It may have an oval shape, but it could be any shape, including square, triangular, etc. The port  411  may likewise be transparent and allow for viewing into and out of the boundary  400 , but the port  411  may include a removable segment  442 , such as a flap, that may open and close. The port  411  thus additionally provides access into or out of the boundary  400  through an opening  443  defined by an inner edge  412  of the panel  410 . 
         [0073]    The port  411  may also be of any shape and may be positioned anywhere on the panel  410 . It is shown as an oval near the middle of the height of the panel  410 , but it could also be near the bottom of the panel  410  or could have a square shape. The port  411  may open and close by any means suitable for the material of the panel. For example, the port  411  may use a zipper or Velcro to open and close. Further, any material that is suitable for the panel  410  may also be used for the port  411 . The port  411  may be the same or a different material as the panel  410 , for example the port  411  may be canvas, or a hard plastic, such as plexiglass. 
         [0074]    Besides the window  441  and port  411  shown in  FIG. 4B , other modifications to the panels  410  are possible. For instance, the window  441  may also serve as a pocket on the interior, exterior, or both sides, of the panel  410 . The pocket may be used to hold items used for the physical activity or any other items, including personal effects of those participating in the activity. The panels  410  may also include subpanels that make up the entire panel  410 , or they may include a combination of subpanels and/or windows  441  and/or ports  411 . Other features in the panels  410  in addition to those described may be included. 
         [0075]    The windows  441 , ports  411 , or other features of the panel  410  may, in addition to providing viewing or access, provide a means to tension the panels  410  and keep them taut. For instance, the access  440 , such as a zipper, shown in the center of the panel  410  in  FIG. 4B  may be used to tighten the panel  410  by having different settings on it to take in more or less panel  410  material when it tightens. Further, the sleeves  432  on the left and right side edges  418 ,  420  of the panels  410  that couple with the posts  430  may provide a mechanism by which the panel  410  may be tightened or kept taut. The sleeves  432  may be adjustable such that loose panels  410  may have their slack taken up by adjustment of the sleeves  432 . 
         [0076]    The tightening system  450  may likewise be located at or near the lower edge  416  of the panel  410  that connects the panel  410  to the ground  10  as shown in  FIGS. 4A-4B . The tensioning system  450  may include a pocket  451 , one or more attachments  452 , one or more cords  453 , and one or more spikes  454 . The cords  453  may be tightening ropes and the attachments  452  may be reinforced sections on the panel  410 . The cords  453  are connected to the spikes  454  that secure into the ground  10 . Securing the spikes  454  into the ground  10  creates tension in the panels  410  that helps keep them taut. The cord  453  may be a simple fabric rope or it may be steel wire or composite. Further, the cord  453  may run through all attachments  452 , as is shown on the left side of the panel  410  in  FIGS. 4A-4B . This side of the panel  410  has two spikes  454  that attach the cord  453 to the ground  10 . On the right side of the panel  410  in  FIGS. 4A-4B , another implementation of the tightening system  450  is shown. The right side contains two vertical cords  453  with spikes  454 , that emanate from two attachments  452 . 
         [0077]    Many variations of the tightening system  450  are possible, with the cord  453 , attachments  452 , and spikes  454  allowing for many combinations of such a system  450 . Further, the spikes  454  may be pointed tip objects to facilitate a driving penetration and securement with the ground  10 , or they may take a variety of other shapes and forms. For instance, the spikes  454  may be threaded for rotational penetration of the ground or hook shaped in order to flare out from the panels and provide stability in a direction that is out of the plane of the panel  410 . Other features related to panel tensioning, stiffening, and securing are discussed below. 
         [0078]      FIG. 4C  depicts an embodiment of a boundary  400  showing another means of creating tension in the panels  410 . A tensioning system  450  is depicted near the lower edge  416  of the panel  410  that includes pockets  451  with inserts  455 . This system  450  consists of the inserts, which may be rods, slipped into the pockets  451  provided in or on the panel  410 . The pockets  451  are shown horizontally oriented, but they may also be vertical or diagonal, or a combination of any of these. The pockets  451  may also be positioned near the upper edge  414  of the panel  410 . The pockets  451  may be sized to fit just one insert  455  or multiple inserts  455 . They may also be combined with other features of the panel  410 , such as the windows  441  or ports  411 , or the other pockets for holding items. The inserts  455  that are inserted into the stiffening system pockets  451  are rigid or stiff such that they provide a rigidity or stiffness to the panel  410 . This rigidity or stiffness may be crucial with some of the physical activities that may be played inside the boundary  400 , for instance Ga-ga. Ga-ga requires the ability to bounce a ball off the walls, i.e. the panels  410 . Many times the ball is bounced off the bottom portion of the walls, so having a stiffening system near the bottom portion of the panels  410  becomes important, especially with balls bounced off the panels  410  with a lot of force or speed. The inserts  455  may therefore be metal rods, such as aluminum, or composite rods, such as carbon fiber. The inserts  455  may be unitary structures or assembled from separate pieces, for instance shorter inserts  455  that are screwed together. There may also be a combination of inserts  455  in different orientations that attach to each other once installed in the panels  410 , for instance to form a triangle or rectangle on the panel  410 . 
         [0079]    The tensioning system  450  depicted in  FIG. 4C  further includes a mini ground auger vertical tensioning system located near the bottom portion of the panel. It consists of two attachments  452  that connect the cords  453  to the panels  410  which secure the attachments  452  directly to the ground. The cords  453  are secured by means of spikes  454  or other attachment means, such as rotating threads. The panel in  FIG. 4C  depicts a single cord  453  and spike  454  on either side of the panel  410 , but more or fewer cords  453  and/or spikes  454  may be implemented. For instance, multiple attachments  452  may be provided on the panel  410 , and only a few or none may be used in for example calm environmental conditions. But for windy or other disrupting conditions, more or all of the attachments  452  that are provided may be used. The system  450 , such as a mini ground auger system, may be included on all of the panels  410  or only some, for instance an access panel  216  may not include them so as to facilitate access. 
         [0080]      FIG. 4C  further depicts fabric corner post sleeves  432 . The sleeves  432  are tubular structures inside which the posts  430  are received. The sleeves  432  are shown in  FIG. 4A  running the entire length of each side edge  418 ,  420 . The sleeves  432  may also run only a portion of the respective side edges  418 ,  420 , or the sleeve  432  may be made up of multiple sleeves  432  that each has a length that is shorter than the side edge  418 ,  420 . The sleeve  432  may also be made up of a series of loops. The loops on one panel side edge may be offset from the loops on an adjoining panel side edge such that loops do not interfere with each other when coupled together by a post  430 . The sleeves  432  may also be reinforced with fabric or metal or other materials for durability and strength. As mentioned, the sleeves  432  may also serve as a tightening mechanism for the panels  410 , for instance by being adjustable. For example, the sleeves may comprise loops that use Velcro to attach to a post  430 . The loops may be of various lengths to allow for looser or tighter attachment to the posts  430 , and therefore a looser or tighter fit for the panels  410 . 
         [0081]    The access  440  in  FIG. 4C , such as a zipper, also provides a means of tensioning the panel  410  as well as a means for access into the boundary  400 . The access  440  is shown extending along the entire height of the panel  410  from top to bottom. However, the access  440  may also extend for only a portion of the height of the panel  410 . It may begin at the upper edge  414  of the panel  410  and end in the middle, or begin at the lower edge  416  and end in the middle. The access  440  such as a zipper may also run in the reverse direction. The access  440  may further begin and end on the interior of the panel  410 , such that it does not contact an edge. The access  440  is shown as a linear implementation oriented vertically, but other orientations and implementations may be provided. For instance, the access  440  may be a zipper or other feature and may be horizontal or it may also be curved. For instance, the access  440  may fully enclose an access panel, such as access panel  216 , provided in the panel  410 , such that a U-shaped access  440  that begins and ends on the same edge of the panel  410  allows for removal of the access panel that it surrounds. The access  440  may also be provided on the windows  441  or ports  411  or other throughways previously discussed. 
         [0082]    A brace  466  is also shown in  FIG. 4C . The brace  466 , such as a cross brace, provides stability for the boundary  400  and extends along the upper edges  414  of the panels  410 . The brace  466  is further discussed in more detail below. 
         [0083]      FIGS. 5A and 5B  depict vertical support posts  500  that form the backbone of the boundary. A top view of the post  500  is shown in  FIG. 5A . The post  500  has a circular cross sectional shape and an engagement  520  near the top. The engagement  520  may be a socket for receiving a post-driving tool. Thus, the engagement  520  may also function as a driving feature. The engagement  520  is depicted as a square socket, but the engagement  520  may be a number of engagement features and of any suitable shape, such as a star, hexagon, or polygon with rounded corners. A cross-section view of the post  500  in  FIG. 5A  is shown in  FIG. 5B  as taken along the line  5 B- 5 B as shown in  FIG. 5A . The post  500  is depicted with a foundation  530  having a pointed tip near the bottom of the post  500 . In this embodiment, the posts  500  are driven or screwed into the ground. They may also have an auger or threads  532  for rotating the post  500  into the ground. The engagement  520  is seen as a recess into the top portion of the post  500 . As mentioned, the posts  500  provide a means for coupling the panels to each other and are depicted at the intersections of the panels in various figures, for example in  FIGS. 4A-4C . They may also serve as tensioning means for the panels  410  and attachments for various features of the system, such as a post-driving tool or net. 
         [0084]      FIGS. 6A and 6B  depict an embodiment of a post-driving tool  600 . A side view of the tool  600  is shown in  FIG. 6A  and a top view is shown in  FIG. 6B . The tool  600  is used to drive the posts, such as the post  500 , into the ground. It attaches to the top of the post  500  and is complementary in shape to the engagement  520  of the post  500 . The tool  600  has an engagement  620  that aligns or mates with the post  500 . In some embodiments, the engagement  620  of the tool  600  is a square extrusion that engages with a complementary-shaped socket engagement  520  of the post  500 . A circular base  630  may also be included as shown in  FIG. 6B . Once the tool  600  is mated with the post, the tool  600  may provide a surface to drive the post into the ground. The tool  600  may also provide a means for rotating the post by providing a lever arm. The two arms  610  of the tool  600  that extend out from the engagement  620  are grasped and rotated to rotate the post and secure it to the ground. The engagement  620  may be of various shapes depending on the shape of the engagement  520  at the top of the post  500 . 
         [0085]    While the system may be secured to the ground by direct penetration of the posts  500  into the ground, this is not always possible. When playing on hard surfaces, such as asphalt, a gym floor, concrete, or hard-packed dirt or clay, it is often not possible to drive the bottom point of the post  500  into the ground. Accordingly, in some embodiments, a support  750  that includes a base  755  and a mount  760  is provided as depicted in  FIG. 7  to support a post  700 . The support  750  includes the base  755  that has a large enough footprint to allow for stability of the post  700  once attached to the support  750 .  FIG. 7  depicts a side view of the support  750 , which has a circular mount  760  for receiving and mating to the post  700 , and a larger, flanged base  755  attached to the bottom of the mount  760 . The mount  760  may define a cavity  765  and may contain mating features to which the post  700  mates. In some embodiments, the post  600  includes a foundation  730  with threads  732  that mate with complementary threads inside the mount  760 . These or other mating features may be located inside the cavity  765 . 
         [0086]    The flanged base  755  is depicted with ribs that enhance stability of the support  750 . The ribs are seen on either side of the mount  760  in  FIG. 7 . The flanged base  755  may be circular, square, or any other suitable shape. The base  755  provides stability for the mount  760  and therefore for the posts  700  when attached to them. The underside of the base  755  that contacts the ground is flat, however, the surface of this underside may be grooved or ridged to provide even more stability. A grooved or ridged underside to the base  755  will provide more friction between the base  755  and ground and make it more difficult to slide on the ground. It may also dig in slightly or grab the surface on which it rests. Other means of providing a rough surface to the underside of the base  755  for increased friction or grabbing are possible, for instance etching or dotted patterns of recesses or extrusions may be implemented. 
         [0087]    Some physical activities may require the need for a taller structure than is offered by the panels alone. In such a case, a net  860  may be implemented along the top of the panels  810 , as depicted in  FIG. 8 . In various embodiments, the net  860  is added for additional height, which may for example help catch balls that fly out. The net  860  and associated features of the netting system may also serve additional sporting purposes in other sporting contexts, for example in volleyball or badminton to provide the net and/or adjustable netting features disclosed herein. In  FIG. 8 , the net  860  is shown attached to the top of the panels  810 . It extends all around the boundary  800 . The net  860  however need not extend all the way around but may be selectively installed or implemented. For instance, if only one side of the boundary  800  is of concern with respect to balls flying out, then that side alone may have the net  860 . The net  860  may further be implemented with many embodiments of the boundary  800 . For instance, as shown, the boundary  800  may have the net  860  along with a window  841  and an access  840 , such as a zipper. 
         [0088]    The net  860  may also provide additional support. It may advantageously allow additional support to be added without significantly impairing the view of spectators, due to the mesh pattern or holes of the net  860 . Such support may be provided by a net  860  having an adjustable cross brace, discussed in more detail below. The net  860  may include many net segments  861  corresponding to portions of the net  860  that are over a single panel. For instance, the boundary  800  in  FIG. 8  has eight panels  810  as well as eight net segments  861 , with each segment  861  located above a corresponding panel  810 . The net  860  is shown with extensions  862 , which may be support posts, that separate the net segments  861  that make up the entire net  860 . The net segments  861  are joined together by the extensions  862 . These extensions  862  are shown above each post  830  that connects the panels  810 . For instance, the extensions  862  may continue a linear line, such as an axis, of the posts  830  at the vertices of the boundary  800 . The extensions  862  may thus extend the structural feature of the corresponding post  830  above which the extension  862  is located. 
         [0089]    The net segments  862  may be collapsible and deployable. The segments  862  may be rolled or otherwise bunched up to collapse and take up a smaller volume, and then unrolled or otherwise unfurled to take their full, deployed shape. The net segments  862  may be removed from the panels  810  when the boundary  800  is disassembled and transported, or they may remain on the panels  810  for quicker assembly the next time the boundary  800  is assembled. Further detail of the net  860  and associated features are discussed below. 
         [0090]      FIGS. 9A-9C  describe various features for attaching or otherwise coupling an embodiment of a netting system  960  to a boundary  900 . The netting system  960  may include a net segment  964  coupled with the posts  500  of the boundary  900  and the netting system  960  may provide tension through a brace  966 .  FIG. 9A  depicts a joint  901  in the boundary  900  structure. At the joint  902 , the post  500  is shown extending up from the bottom of the figure and coupling with an extension  962  for the net segment  964 . The extension  962  is shown attached to the top of the post  500  by fitting into the same engagement  520  that the post-insertion tool  600  fits into. The extension  962  has a complementary shape that allows it to fit inside the engagement  520 . In some embodiments, the extension  962  has a support plate positioned above the engagement  520  when coupled with the post  500  that covers the top of the post  500  and further adds stability. 
         [0091]    The extension  962  has the net segment  964  attached to it and is shown attached to the left side of the extension  962  in  FIG. 9A . While the extension  962  and the net segment  964  may be a unitary structure, they may also be comprised of separate pieces, whereby the extension  962  is separate from the net segment  964 . There may also be a combination of unitary structures composed of the net segment  964  and the extension  962  and then also separate net  964  and extension  962  structures, such that one end of the net segment  964  has an extension  962  attached to it and the other end of the net segment  964  does not. The extension  962  would then be installed and the free end of the net segment  964  would then attach to an extension  962  on another net segment  964 , installed adjacent to the current net segment  964 . In this manner, a larger net made up of the net segments  964  may be installed in a series around or otherwise along the boundary  900 , consisting of the net segments  964  with each net segment  964  having an end with the extension  962  and an end without the extension  962 . 
         [0092]    A brace  966  is also shown as part of the net segment  964  depicted in  FIG. 9A . The brace  966  may be an adjustable cross-brace and is shown extending parallel to the net segment  964  and perpendicular to the post  500  and extension  962 . The brace  966  provides additional horizontal tension and stability by tightening or loosening of the brace  966 . The brace  966  connects one post  500  to another post  500 . It is adjusted by means of a clamp  968 , such as an adjustable ratchet clamp as depicted at the intersection of the brace  966  and the post  500  in  FIG. 9A . The clamp  968  allows for adjustment of the brace  966  toward either a tighter or looser configuration. The brace  966  is a rigid but lightweight material, such as a metal, plastic or composite, that can provide tension but also provide compressive resistance in order to provide lateral stability of the boundary  900 . The clamp  968  is shown located just above the top of the post  500  and mated with the brace  966 . The clamp  968 receives and grabs onto the brace  966  and by adjustment can pull more brace  966  in or let more brace  966  out. In this manner, it provides for more or less tension in the boundary  900 . The clamp  968  is shown coupling with only one brace  966  but it may provide for connection of another brace  966  on the opposite side of the clamp  968  shown, such that two braces  966  may be adjusted with a single clam  968   p.  Another clamp  968  may also be used that installs over or around this clamp  968 , or at another location on the post  500 . A clamp  968  and/or brace  966  may be useful in the gaga pit context as well as other contexts, for instance if the panels  910  and/or netting system  960  or net segments  964  are used for volleyball, badminton, or other activities. 
         [0093]    Another embodiment of the joint  901  formed by the post  500 , the extension  962  and the brace  966  is shown in  FIG. 9B . In this depiction, the net segment  964  is arranged going the opposite direction as in  FIG. 9A . A corner post  500  is located near the bottom of  FIG. 9B , with a corner post engagement  520  socket that receives an insert  963 , such as a pipe bushing socket insert. The insert  963  allows for attachment of the complementary extension  962 . The insert  963  may be a bushing and/or may be circular, square, or any other shape to mate with the post  500 . In the configuration of  FIG. 9B , the adjustable clamp  968  is on the left side of the post  500  and the brace  966  extends to the right side of the post  500  as illustrated. However,  FIG. 9B  depicts a different embodiment of the clamp  968 . Here, the clamp  968  is adjustable as well as the length of a ratchet  967  attached to the removable brace  966 . These or other configurations may be used, based on different needs with respect to, for example, space, weight, materials, etc. 
         [0094]    Another embodiment of a brace  966  is depicted in  FIG. 9C . The brace  966  shown is a cross brace and has an adjustable tensioner  972 , which may be a brace slide tensioner. The tensioner  972  allows for adjusting the length and tension or compression in the brace  966  or braces  966 . In this implementation, the brace  966  has a shorter brace segment attached to the post at the right of  FIG. 9C . This shorter segment attaches to the tensioner  972 , which in turn attaches to the next segment of the brace  966 . The tensioner  972  may be adjusted using, for example, thumb screws, to increase or decrease the tension on the brace segments  966 . The next segment  966  contains a claw friction fit clamp  971  that uses a friction fit to mate with the brace  966 . 
         [0095]    While the various embodiments can be positioned to form an enclosed boundary, the panels can also be moved and modified to form other shapes and structures. For example,  FIG. 10  depicts panels  1010  arranged to form an open boundary  1000 . Such a boundary  1000  is useful in many contexts, such as for an obstacle course, and/or for use in cross-fit activities or other activities. The panels  1010  are portable and flexible such that it is easy to form many different embodiments of such a course.  FIG. 10  depicts two walls  1102  each formed with four panels  1010 . The walls  1102  can have a variety of shapes, including the zig-zag shape as shown. The overall size and layout of the panels  1010  can be adjusted in various ways, as shown by the arrows. For instance, the panels  1010  can be moved out or translated sideways to form a wider path in between the walls, as indicated by the arrows at the bottom of the figure. As indicated, the panels  1010  can likewise be moved closer together to form a narrower path. The panels  1010  themselves can also be rotated with respect to one another such that the angles A, B formed by the walls are larger or smaller, as indicated by the directions of the arrows on the panels  1010  themselves. Finally, the panels  1010  can be rotated all together as indicated by the directions of the arrows near the center of the figure. The panels  1010  may be arranged in any geometric configuration conducive to an obstacle or exercise course. For example, the panels  1010  may have uses beyond just the exercise context, such as temporary dividers in offices, or as indicators to guide foot traffic, or merely as items of entertainment for kids to build forts. The panels  1010  may also be joined in various other configurations or singularly isolated and used in many contexts, such as volleyball, badminton, and other activities. These are just some of the possibilities with the present disclosure, and many different variations and combinations of structures may be formed by the panels, as will be readily apparent to one having ordinary skill in the art. 
         [0096]      FIG. 11A  is a side view of a boundary  1100  having an opening  1141 .  FIG. 11B  is a top view of the boundary  1100 . The boundary  1100  has a centrally located opening  1141  formed by end panels  1111 . The panels  1110  on either side of the opening  1141  are coupled with the end panels  1111  on respective ends of the panels  1110 . As shown, each panel  1110  has two end panels  1111  coupled thereto. A first end panel  1111  extends toward the opening  1141  and a second end panel  1111  extends outward perpendicularly from the panel  1110  and the first end panel  1111 . The panels  1110  include posts  1130  on the ends. 
         [0097]    The panels  1110  are further shown with pockets  1115  located near the upper edge  1114 . The pockets  1115  have inserts  1163 , such as a batten. Further, a cord  1164  extends along the length of the upper edge  1114  and a cord  1153  extends along the lower edge of the panels  1110 . The cord  1153  may be part of a bottom tensioning system  1150 . Similarly, the cord  1154  may be part of an upper tensioning system  1160 . The boundary  1100  may include a joint  1162  having a cross member  1161  coupling with the upper tensioner  1160 , and the insert  1163 . 
         [0098]      FIG. 12  is a side view of an embodiment of a boundary  1200  with triangular end panels  1111 . The boundary  1200  may further include attachments  1152  along the top and bottom edges of the panels  1110 . In some embodiments, the attachments  1152  are grommets. 
         [0099]      FIG. 13  is a flowchart showing an embodiment of a method  1300  for assembling a boundary, such as the boundary  100 . The method  1300  may begin with block  1310  wherein a set of panels, such as the panels  110 , are removed from a case or are otherwise provided. The panels may be part of a boundary, such as boundary  100 , and may form a variety of playing fields or obstacles, such as a Ga-Ga pit. 
         [0100]    The method  1300  may continue to block  1320  wherein a first panel is extended, such as unfurling or unrolling the panel  110 . The panel  110  may be laid out on the ground. 
         [0101]    The method  1300  may continue to block  1330  wherein a first post is inserted through a first sleeve of the first panel. This may include, for example, inserting the post  430  into the sleeve  432  on the left side  418  of the panel  410 . 
         [0102]    The method  1300  may continue to block  1340  wherein a second post is inserted through a second sleeve of the first panel. This may include, for example, inserting another of the post  430  into the sleeve  432  on the right side  420  of the panel  410 . 
         [0103]    The method  1300  may continue to block  1350  wherein the first and second posts are secured to the ground or other support on the ground. This may include, for example, securing the foundations  434  of the posts  430  into the ground. It may also include, for example, rotating the threads  732  of the foundation  730  on the lower part of the post  700  into the cavity  765  of the mount  760  on the support  750 . 
         [0104]    The method  1300  may continue to block  1360  wherein a second panel is extended away from the second post. This may include, for example, extending another panel  110  at an angle relative to the plane of the first panel  110 , such that an angled corner or vertex of a boundary is formed. It may also include coupling the second panel with the second post. For instance, it may include extending the sleeve  432  on the left side  418  of the second panel  410  over the post  430 . 
         [0105]    The method  1300  may continue to block  1370  wherein the remaining panels are assembled in a similar manner. For instance, the remaining panels  110  may be coupled with the remaining posts  430  or  500  to form the boundary  100  or  1000 . 
         [0106]    The methods disclosed herein comprise one or more steps or actions for achieving the described method. The method steps and/or actions may be interchanged with one another without departing from the scope of the claims. In other words, unless a specific order of steps or actions is specified, the order and/or use of specific steps and/or actions may be modified without departing from the scope of the claims. 
         [0107]    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. 
         [0108]    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.). 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 embodiments containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes both 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 typically be 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 typically be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of “two recitations,” without other modifiers, typically means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). 
         [0109]    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 virtually 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.” 
         [0110]    While the above description has pointed out novel features as applied to various embodiments, the skilled person will understand that various omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form and details of the device or process illustrated may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. The claims are not limited to the precise configuration and components illustrated above. Therefore, the scope of the invention is defined by the claims that follow rather than by the foregoing description. All variations coming within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are embraced within their scope.