Patent Publication Number: US-2020296916-A1

Title: Free stall divider having coated fiberglass apparatus portions

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present application claims the benefit to U.S. application Ser. No. 15/480,037 filed Apr. 5, 2017 which claims benefit to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/398,193, filed Sep. 22, 2016, U.S. Provisional Application No. 62,348,255 filed Jun. 10, 2016, and U.S. Provisional Application 62/318,486 filed Apr. 5, 2016, each of which is hereby incorporated herein in its entirety by reference. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present invention relates generally to fiberglass, fencing, gates, free stalls and free stall dividers having at least a portion thereof comprising fiberglass, and particularly to the devices, systems, and methods for achieving fiberglass free stalls, free stall dividers and fiberglass apparatus, more particularly to the devices, systems and methods for achieving fiberglass free stalls and fiberglass apparatus having coatings. 
     BACKGROUND 
     In the dairy, ranching, and farming industry, the use of fences, gates and free stall barns to house and maintain animals such as dairy cattle and horses is well known in the art. Particularly, when properly designed, fences, pens, and free stall barns provide a convenient method of managing dairy cattle by providing a comfortable living and feeding environment that allows the cattle to move freely within the confined area. Such barn styles are also designed to shade and protect animals from inclement weather conditions. In a typical design, the barn includes several free stall partitions that are adjacently arranged to maximize space capacity and to provide a plurality of resting areas that are sized to accommodate individual cattle. Additionally, in other examples such as use in a livestock pen area, such as a horse pasture, the enclosure may include a boundary fence or similar enclosure with one or more gates to enable feeding and pasturing of the horses. As such, key considerations taken into account when implementing such designs are the initial and on-going maintenance costs, ease of installation, as well as adequate spacing and sizing of the stalls, fencing and/or gates. Moreover, an important consideration is that of being able to adapt the fencing design to the contour of the land and surrounding structures which may be uneven, unaligned, or not of uniform size and spacing. 
     Conventionally, most live stock enclosures, stalls, fencing and/or gates are generally composed of stainless steel or wooden materials that rust, corrode, and mold easily. This in turn leads to decreased wear life and maintenance costs associated with having to continuously replace the enclosures. Additionally, with most free stall systems, the stalls are typically attached to the support frames of the barn structures, thereby making it difficult to adjust the individual stall sizes and requiring increased installation times and costs. To address such concerns, other conventional systems have employed the use of prefabricated free stall assemblies. Drawbacks to such designs, however, include decreased wear life and increased maintenance costs associated with the use of materials that are easily corroded and rusted due to the barn environment with livestock. 
     Additionally, most fences and free stall systems are designed with the construction materials attached to each other and to surrounding structures using rigid connectors that may be pre-manufactured having square corners, half-corners, or possibly only a small number of possibilities for making connections. To address such constraints, fences, gates and structures that are used to contain livestock are limited in their versatility and adaptability, forcing a design that is limited and may not properly follow the contour of the land or existing structures. Drawbacks to such designs include gaps that may occur in attempting to follow the contour of the land and irregularities in structures, or the need for installing excessive fencing and stall materials to accommodate these contours and irregularities. Additionally, for the craftsman of these fencing, gate and stall materials, there is a need to carry an assortment of connectors resulting in higher inventory carrying cost. 
     Therefore, there still exists a need in the art for a versatile and cost effective, light weight, fence, gate and/or free stall design that has an increased wear life that is easy to install, resistant to corrosion and rust, and that may have the option to swivel to any angle in order to accommodate the attachment of fencing, gate and stall materials to conform to the contour of the land and the irregularities and non-uniformity farm and ranch structures 
     SUMMARY 
     Aspects of the present invention herein generally relate to systems and methods for manufacturing a fiberglass apparatus for use in free stall systems and methods for providing resting and feeding environments for dairy cattle. In certain aspects, the present invention is directed to a fiberglass free stall system comprising a plurality of free stall units arranged in a substantially parallel relationship to one another and spaced apart so as to define an opening sized to accommodate an animal, such as dairy cattle. In embodiments, each of the plurality of free stall units include a first and a second divider that is connected to an upper and lower center support rod via a clamp member to secure positioning and placement of the free stall units, which can be within a barn. The first and second dividers each can comprise an upper and lower rail member that are joined via a connection loop having a generally arcuate configuration. In certain aspects, the upper and/or lower rail members can comprise fiberglass, in certain aspects a solid fiberglass rod, in certain other aspects a fiberglass tube. In certain aspects, the connection loop is a U-shaped tube having two ends, such that one end of the upper rail member can be inserted into one end of the connection loop and one end of the lower rail member can be inserted into the other end of the connection loop. In certain aspects, the other end of the upper rail member can be inserted into one of a second connection loop and the other end of the lower rail member can be inserted into the other end of the second connection loop. In some aspects, the connection loops comprise a metal material, such as aluminum, stainless steel, galvanized steel, or a metal alloy. 
     Another aspect of the present invention is directed to a system for manufacturing a fiberglass apparatus, the system comprising at least one cutting station, a holding station, a washing station, a grinder station, a coating station and/or a drying station, each station in the system arranged to form a fiberglass apparatus of the present invention. 
     In certain other aspects, the present invention is directed to a method of manufacturing a fiberglass apparatus, the method comprising sizing the fiberglass apparatus to a predetermined length at a cutting station by severing at least one end of an initial fiberglass apparatus. In some aspects, the at least one end comprises a metal component that is severed off from the remaining portion of the initial fiberglass apparatus. Next, the initial fiberglass apparatus may be maintained in a holding frame at a holding station until the apparatus is ready for transfer into a conveyor assembly. In some aspects, the initial fiberglass apparatus is transferred directly from the severing station to the conveyor assembly without being held. In certain aspects, off set wheels are configured in the conveyor assembly to continuously rotate the initial fiberglass apparatus and to transfer the apparatus through a surface preparation process. During the surface preparation process, the initial fiberglass apparatus may optionally undergo a prewash at a wash station before being ground at a grinder station. At the grinder station, the initial fiberglass apparatus may be ground utilizing an abrasive apparatus with a grit size in a range of about 30 to about 100 grit, in other aspects about 40 to about 90 grit, in other aspects about 50 to about 85 grit, and in certain other aspects about 60 to about 80 grit. In some aspects, the abrasive apparatus comprises a diamond grit blade. In some aspects the fiberglass apparatus is spun while undergoing the prewash and/or the grinding process. In certain aspects, once the surface has been ground, the fiberglass apparatus continues to be spun and is exposed to compressed air and/or a blower directed toward the fiber apparatus to blow off any liquid, such as water or any other prewash solvent, to dry the apparatus before the apparatus reaches the coating station. In certain other aspects, the ground initial fiberglass apparatus is conveyed into a coating station where one or more coating layers is applied to the surface of the fiberglass apparatus. In the coating station, the fiberglass apparatus can be continuously rotated by off-set wheels that transverse the distance of the fiberglass apparatus in the conveyor assembly, such that an even layer of the coating can be applied to the fiberglass apparatus. In some aspects, the coating material comprises a UV resistant material. In other aspects, the coating applied is not a UV resistant-coating. In certain other aspects, a first primer coating is applied and then a second coating is applied, wherein the second coating may comprise a UV-resistant material. 
     In certain aspects, during the coating process the fiberglass apparatus portion that has been coated is supported by a transfer assembly until the entire fiberglass apparatus is coated. In certain aspects, the transfer assembly comprises a transfer arm assembly, which in certain aspects, the transfer arm assembly wheels are allowed to freely rotate with the spinning of the rod, which transports the apparatus from the conveyor assembly, and more particularly the coating station, to a drying station where the coated fiberglass apparatus is cured. In certain aspects, the transfer assembly comprises two or more transfer arm assemblies that are spaced apart to support the coated fiberglass apparatus as it is coated. Once the entirety of the fiberglass apparatus is coated, the transfer assembly transfers the coated fiberglass apparatus to the drying station. In certain aspects, the drying station contains a plurality of supports that are spaced apart to support the length of the fiberglass apparatus. The coated fiberglass apparatus may be further cut to other desired lengths after the coating and/or drying stations. 
     In one related aspect of the present invention, the fiberglass apparatus may be implemented in a fencing system, in some aspects an electrical fencing system, and in other aspects a gate. In certain aspects, the fencing system comprises a plurality of fencing posts equidistantly arranged and each having at least one aperture formed therein so as to receive another component, the fencing posts comprising the fiberglass apparatus according to the present invention. In some aspects, the other component is another fiberglass apparatus according to the present invention having a diameter smaller than the diameter of the vertical fencing posts, such that the smaller diameter fiberglass apparatus can extend through an aperture in the larger diameter fiberglass apparatus. 
     In certain other aspects, the other component comprises a conductive element that extends through at least one aperture of a fiberglass apparatus, in certain other embodiments at least one aperture of two or more adjacent fiberglass apparatuses thereby forming an electrical fencing barrier. In certain aspects, the conductive element comprises a metal wire. In certain aspects, each of the plurality of fencing posts that form the vertical fencing posts can comprise fiberglass, in certain aspects a solid fiberglass rod, or in certain other aspects a fiberglass tube. In certain aspects, the horizontal smaller diameter fiberglass apparatus can comprise fiberglass, in certain aspects a solid fiberglass rod, or in certain other aspects a fiberglass tube. Further, in other embodiments, the conductive element can comprise an electrical wire, in certain aspects a solid fiberglass rod, or in certain other aspects a fiberglass tube. 
     In other related aspects of the present invention, the fiberglass apparatus may be implemented in a free stall system comprising a plurality of free stall units arranged in a substantially parallel relationship to one another and spaced apart so as to define an opening sized to accommodate dairy cattle. In certain aspects, each of the plurality of free stall units include a first and a second divider that is connected to an upper and lower center support rod via a clamp member to secure positioning and placement of the free stall units within a barn. The first and second dividers each can comprise an upper and lower rail member that are joined via a connection loop having a generally arcuate configuration. In certain aspects, the upper and/or lower rail members can comprise a solid fiberglass rod, and in certain other aspects a fiberglass tube. 
     In certain other aspects, the present invention is directed to one or more free stall dividers, each of the free stall dividers comprising an upper and lower rail member that are joined via a connection loop having a generally arcuate configuration. In certain aspects, the upper and/or lower rail members can comprise fiberglass, in certain aspects a solid fiberglass rod, in certain other aspects a fiberglass tube. In some aspects the upper and/or lower rail members can be used for two free stall dividers. Each of the two free stall dividers comprising a connection loop. 
     Another aspect of the present invention is directed to a method for manufacturing a fiberglass free stall system, comprising fabricating an upper and lower rail member utilizing a grinding technique having a grit size in a range between approximately 30 to 100 grit, with a grit size of about 80 grit being preferable in certain aspects; coating the upper and lower rail members with a ultraviolet coating; providing a connection loop comprising a corrosion resistant material; attaching the distal end of each of the upper and lower rail members to the connection loop via a fastener to form a free stall divider; attaching the proximal end of the upper rail member to a first substantially horizontal structure; attaching the proximal end of the lower rail member to a second substantially horizontal structure located below the first substantially horizontal structure; and installing a plurality of free stall dividers in a free stall barn. 
     Another aspect of the present invention herein generally relate to a swivel connector for the attachment of rails, fences, gates, and free stall construction materials and a method for designing and installing rails, fences, gates, and free stall systems on farms and ranches for enclosing and maintaining livestock. In certain aspects, the present invention is directed to attaching one rail to another rail while allowing any angle of alignment between the two rails by use of the swivel connector. In one embodiment, the two rails being attached may be of a standard fiberglass rail design, and they may be of the same diameter or of different standard diameters. In another embodiment, one piece of the swivel connector may be separated from the other, allowing it to be used singularly for attaching a rail to a suitably configured baseplate, post, or other structure. In another embodiment a swivel connector may be joined with one or more pieces of other swivel connectors for attaching three or more rails to each other or to any other structure. In some aspects, all swivel connector pieces that are used may be sized to accommodate rails of equivalent diameter. In embodiments, the swivel connector pieces that are used may be sized to accommodate rails of differing sizes. In embodiments, all swivel connector pieces that are used may be firmly secured to the rail which they support by use of a set screw or other securing device. In embodiments, swivel connector pieces that are used may provide only radial support for a rail while allowing the rail to move axially through the connector, or to rotate within it, after final assembly. In embodiments where a swivel connector is not rigidly attached to the rail it supports, it may be configured to be rigidly attached at a later time by the use of a set screw or other suitable securing device. 
     In the afore described embodiments, the present invention is directed at the use of a solid fiberglass rod as being the rail material for constructing the fence, pen, gate, or free stall barn system. However the rail may be composed of any other suitable railing material including wood, plastic, steel, or other metal; and it may be either solid or hollow. In the afore described embodiments, the present invention is directed at the use of the swivel connector as providing the structural rigidity of the final assembly of the fence, pen, gate, or free stall barn system. However, in some embodiments the final rigid assembly may be additionally secured by the use of an adhesive or cementing material, or brazing or welding, to increase permanence and structural strength of the fence, pen, gate, or free stall barn system. 
     In the afore described embodiments, the opening of the swivel connector is an annular design in order to accommodate a rail or rod that is approximately round. However, a swivel connector design that utilizes an opening that is oval, triangular, square, hexagonal, or any other shape that will match the shape of construction materials that are used for fences and rail systems will be within the scope of this invention. 
     The above summary is not intended to describe each illustrated embodiment or every implementation of the subject matter hereof. The figures and the detailed description that follow more particularly exemplify various embodiments. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Subject matter hereof may be more completely understood in consideration of the following detailed description of various embodiments in connection with the accompanying figures, in which: 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a free stall system using coated fiberglass apparatus according to certain embodiments of the present invention. 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view of a free stall system using coated fiberglass apparatuses according to an embodiment of the present invention, such that the coated fiberglass apparatus is used to form two separate free stalls. 
         FIG. 3A  is a top view of an upper clamping member that can be utilized to connect two fiberglass apparatuses according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 3B  is side view of a lower clamping member that can be utilized to connect two fiberglass apparatuses according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 3C  illustrates the use of the clamping members of  FIGS. 3A and 3B  in the free stall system of  FIGS. 1 and 2  according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 4  is a block diagram of a system for manufacturing a fiberglass apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 5  is a perspective view of a cutting station arranged within the system illustrated in  FIG. 4  according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 6  is a perspective view of a holding station subsequent to the cutting station, the holding station arranged within the system illustrated in  FIG. 4  according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 7  is a perspective view of a pre-wash and grinder assembly arranged within the system illustrated in  FIG. 4  according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 8  is a perspective view of a coating station arranged within the system illustrated in  FIG. 4  according to an embodiment of the present invention, whereby the portion of the fiberglass apparatus that has been coated is represented in dots while the uncoated portion of the fiberglass apparatus has no indicators. In subsequent steps of the manufacturing process of the fiberglass apparatus having been coated, the coated fiberglass apparatus is not illustrated with dots, but is to be understood that it has gone through the coating process. 
         FIG. 9  is a perspective view of the transfer arm assembly and the drying station assembly arranged within the system illustrated in  FIG. 4  according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 10A  is a front view of a fiberglass apparatus in use in an electrical fencing system according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 10B  is a side view of two fiberglass apparatus arranged in an electrical fencing system according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 10C  is a rear view of a fiberglass apparatus in use in an electrical fencing system according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 11  is a cross-sectional and side cross-section view of a connector piece of the present invention. 
         FIG. 12  is a side perspective view of the connector piece of the present invention with the attachment hardware installed to a horizontal tubular rail, the connector piece with hardware being shown prior to being mated to another connector piece in order to form the swivel connector. 
         FIG. 13  is a perspective view of a plurality of swivel connectors of the present invention as they are affixed to a vertical rail of the type it is sized to accommodate, the swivel connector also having a swivel connection to another connector piece forming a two-piece swivel connection according to certain aspects of the present invention. 
         FIG. 14A  is an exploded cross sectional view of a connector piece attachable to a baseplate that can be affixed to a flat surface, the connector piece and baseplate forming a swivel connection according to certain aspects of the present invention. 
         FIG. 14B  is an exploded cross sectional of a connector piece attachable to an alternate style of baseplate that can be affixed to a corresponding surface, such as a square post, the connector piece and baseplate forming a swivel connection according to certain aspects of the present invention. 
         FIG. 15A  is a top cross-sectional view of a connector piece attachable to a corresponding surface, such as a fence post, by means of an elongated threaded fastener according to certain aspects of the present invention. 
         FIG. 15B  is a side partial cross-sectional view of the connector piece attachable to the object of  FIG. 15A . 
         FIG. 16  is a cross-sectional side view of a swivel connector comprised of three connector pieces that have a swivel connection according to certain aspects of the present invention. 
         FIG. 17  is a cross-sectional side view of a swivel connector comprised of two connectors, with the two connectors having different diameters from each other according to certain aspects of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     While various embodiments are amenable to various modifications and alternative forms, specifics thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the intention is not to limit the claimed inventions to the particular embodiments described. On the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the subject matter as defined by the claims. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , a perspective view of a free stall system  100  is shown according to an embodiment. In embodiments, the free stall system  100  can comprise a plurality of free stall units  102  that are adjacently arranged and can be equidistantly spaced apart in a substantially parallel relationship to one another. Each of the free stall units  102  can comprise a first and a second divider  104 ,  106  that is connected to an upper and lower center support rod  108 ,  109  via clamp members  110 . In embodiments, the first and second dividers  104 ,  106  each can comprise an upper and lower rail member  112 ,  114  that are joined via a connection loop  118  having a generally arcuate configuration. In some aspects, the connection loop  118  has a U-shaped configuration. The upper and lower rail members  112 ,  114  can comprise a substantially rigid material, such as fiberglass, which is particularly advantageous as a result of its high strength and corrosion resistant properties. In certain aspects, the upper and/or lower rail members  112 ,  114  can comprise a substantially rigid material, such as a fiberglass material having a coating, which is particularly advantageous as a result of its high strength, corrosion resistant properties, and UV-light protection of the coating. In some aspects, the coating is applied to the fiberglass material according to certain aspects of the present invention described herein. 
     As depicted, in embodiments, the upper and lower rail members  112 ,  114  each can extend between an upper and lower rail member proximal end  122   a,    122   b  and an upper and lower rail member distal end  124   a,    124   b,  with the proximal end  122   a,    122   b  being defined as the end farthest away from the connection loop  118  and with the distal end  124   a,    124   b  being defined as the end which is closest. At the proximal ends  122   a,    122   b,  upper and lower rail members  112 ,  114  can be removably coupled to the upper and lower center support rods  108 ,  109 , which are arranged substantially perpendicular to rail members  112 ,  114 . Additionally, at distal ends  124   a ,  124   b,  the upper and lower rail members  112 ,  114  can further comprise at least one bore hole (not shown) that is configured to receive a fastener to secure the upper and lower rail members  112 ,  114  to connection loop  118 . 
     Although the free stall system  100  disclosed herein is described as a single free stall system, it should be noted that system  100  may vary in embodiments. For example, as shown in  FIG. 2 , in other embodiments, the free stall system  100  can comprise a dual free stall system  200  having a plurality of free stall units  202 ,  204  arranged on opposing sides of the upper and lower center support rods  208 ,  209 . In such a configuration, each of the upper and lower rail members  232 ,  234  can be sized twice as long and can be coupled to at least two upper and lower center support rods  208 ,  209 . 
     In embodiments, referring now to  FIGS. 3A-3C , clamp members  110  can comprise a first and second clamping element  210 ,  212 . In embodiments, the first and second clamping elements  210 ,  212  can comprise end portions  220 ,  222  integrally formed with an intermediate portion  224  having a generally inverted V-shaped structure. End portions  220 ,  222  can comprise a plurality of clamping bores  228  defined therewithin, which are configured to receive a plurality of clamping fasteners  240  for coupling the first and second clamping elements  210 ,  212  and to secure positioning of the upper and lower rail members  112 ,  114  and center support rods  108 ,  109 . The first and second clamping elements  210 ,  212  and center support rods  108 ,  109 , similar to rail members  112 ,  114 , can also be constructed from resilient materials, including, but not limited to, fiberglass, stainless steel, high carbon steel, aluminum, metal alloys, or the like. Additionally, the first and second clamping elements  210 ,  212  can range in size from about 1 inch to 2-⅜ inches according to design requirements. 
     Next, the upper and lower rail members  112 ,  114  and connection loop  118  can be pre-assembled prior to installation, or may be assembled onsite during installation of system  100 , thereby forming the first and second dividers  104 ,  106  of the free stall units  102 . During installation, the first and second dividers  104 ,  106  are positioned substantially parallel to each other, with the connection loop  118  facing outwardly and away from the center support rods  108 ,  109 . As shown in  FIGS. 3A-3C , as a final step, the upper and lower ail members  112 ,  114  are then coupled to upper and lower center support rods  108 ,  109  via clamp members  110 . In particular, the first and second clamping members  210 ,  212  are arranged substantially perpendicular to one another with the first clamping member  210  being positioned on an upper surface of the upper center support rod  108  and the lower rail member  114 , and the second clamping member  212  being positioned on a lower surface of the upper rail member  112  and lover center support rod  109 . To secure fastening of the first and second clamping members  210 ,  212 , each of clamping bores  228  are coaxially aligned and each of clamping fasteners  232  are extended therethrough. Additionally, to provide additional structural support, the upper center support rod  108  can be mounted to a plurality of vertical posts  252  arranged within the free stall barn via a support clamping member  250  as shown in  FIG. 3C  in some embodiments. In other embodiments, the upper center support rod  108  and each of the upper and lower rail members  112 ,  114 , which are arranged substantially perpendicular to the upper center support rod  108 , may be mounted on opposing sides of the plurality of vertical posts  252  via a support clamping member  250 . 
     To form the free stall system  100 , each of the upper and lower rail members  112 ,  114  can be initially washed and ground prior to installation utilizing a specific grinding technique in which an abrasive is employed. In some aspects, the abrasive has a grit size in a range of about 30 to about 100 grit, in other aspects about 40 to about 90 grit, in other aspects about 50 to about 85 grit, and in certain other aspects about 60 to about 80 grit. Once the grinding process is complete, the rail members  112 ,  114  can be coated with an ultraviolet coating to increase the wear life of the rail members, as well as to prevent the formation of slivers and corrosion caused by environmental conditions and exposure to substances such as urine or feces. Similarly, to prevent decreased wear and corrosion of connection loop  118 , connection loop  118  can be coated with a zinc or similar material plating during the fabrication process. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 4-9 , a system  300  for manufacturing a fiberglass apparatus is shown according to certain embodiments. In certain embodiments, system  300  can comprise at least one cutting station  302 , a holding station  304 , a grinding station  310 , a coating station  312 , and a drying station  316 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 5 , the at least one cutting station  302  can be arranged at a front end of system  300  and can comprise a means for cutting a starting fiberglass material. In some aspects, the starting fiberglass material is cut to remove at least one end piece. In some aspects, the starting fiberglass material is cut to a desired size for processing. In some aspects, the starting fiberglass material is cut to remove an end piece from each end of the fiberglass material. In some aspects, the fiberglass material is reused, reclaimed and/or recycled from oil drilling operations, such that end pieces need to be removed to utilize a useful portion thereof. In some aspects, the means for cutting the starting fiberglass material is a cutting blade, such as a diamond blade. Referring now to the exemplary figures, cutting blade  320  can be mounted within an enclosure  322  that is operable to sever an end portion  352 , such as a metal piece, from a fiberglass apparatus  350 . This allows for the fiberglass apparatus  350  to be cut to various desired lengths including, but not limited to about 35 feet, about 50 feet , about 90 feet, about 100 feet, or other shorter or longer lengths specific and suitable to design and/or application requirements. In some aspects, the fiberglass apparatus  350 , after being cut, has a length between about 1 foot to about 200 feet, in some aspects between about 5 feet and about 190 feet, in some aspects between about 10 feet and about 175 feet, in some other aspects between about 25 feet and about 150 feet, and in some other aspects between about 35 feet and about 100 feet, with one of ordinary skill in the art appreciating the length of the fiberglass apparatus  350  can vary in length depending upon the suitable design and/or application requirements and/or processing requirements. 
     In other embodiments, although not shown, a cutting station can be arranged at a back end of system  300  and can comprise a means for cutting a coated fiberglass material. In some embodiments, system  300  can comprise a single front end cutting station  302 , while in other embodiments, system  300  may comprise two are more cutting stations. For example, in certain aspects, system  300  may comprise a first cutting station that is configured to size the initial fiberglass apparatus  350  to a first length (e.g., 90 feet), whereas a second cutting station may arranged to size the fiberglass apparatus  350  to a shorter length such as, e.g., 50 feet or less. In some aspects, the first cutting station may sever one end of the initial fiberglass apparatus  350  while the second cutting station may sever the opposite end of the initial fiberglass apparatus  350 . In some aspects, system  300  utilizes a first cutting station  302  on one end of the fiberglass apparatus  350  and a second cutting station  302  on the opposite end of the fiberglass apparatus  350 . In some aspects, the first and second cutting stations  302  cut the fiberglass apparatus  350  in sequence. In some other aspects, the first and second cutting stations  302  cut the fiberglass apparatus  350  at about the same time. In still some other aspects, the first cutting station  302  cuts a first fiberglass apparatus  350  and then a second fiberglass apparatus  350  before a second cutting station  302  cuts the opposite end of the first fiberglass apparatus  350 . In other words, the first and second cutting stations  302  may be spaced apart during the processing line, such that one or more different fiberglass apparatus  350  are cut by the first cutting station  302  before the opposite end is cut by a second cutting station  302 . In still some further aspects, a single cutting station  302  may cut a first end of the fiberglass apparatus  350  and then the same cutting station  302  used to cut the fiberglass apparatus  350  to a desired length, two or more desired lengths, and/or to remove a second end of the fiberglass apparatus  350 . 
     In some aspects, the initial fiberglass apparatus  350  is a reclaimed, recycled and/or reused fiberglass rod or fiberglass tube commonly used in the oil industry. In some other aspects, the initial fiberglass apparatus  350  is a fiberglass component reclaimed and/or reused from a different industry. In yet some other aspects, the initial fiberglass apparatus  350  is a new fiberglass component. The term “fiberglass apparatus” should be understood herein to refer to a solid fiberglass rod, a fiberglass tube, or other elongated structure that is substantially comprised of fiberglass, which may have the same or differing diameter over the length of the structure. The holding station  304  is arranged proximate the cutting station  302  and includes a holding frame  340  for holding each severed fiberglass apparatus  350 . The holding frame  340  can comprise a plurality of transverse bars  342  attached to a longitudinal bar  344 . In addition, the holding frame  340  can comprise a plurality of protruding posts  346 , which may be equidistantly spaced apart from one another and positioned so as to form a stop mechanism that prevents the plurality of fiberglass apparatus  350  from sliding off an edge of the holding frame  340 . Posts  346  are rotatable about a rotation axis and can comprise a generally L-shaped or other suitable configuration in certain embodiments. Notably, the configuration of posts  346  is such that each post is rotatable between a first position and a second positon to allow for the release of the fiberglass apparatus  350  from the holding frame  340  and into a conveyor assembly  306  as the next apparatus  350  is ready for processing to ensure continuous run cycles. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 6 , the conveyor assembly  306 , which is arranged adjacent to the holding station  304 , can be utilized to transfer each fiberglass apparatus  350  from the holding station  304  and into the grinder and coating stations  310 ,  312 . In some embodiments, the conveyor assembly  306  can comprise a plurality of conveyor units  316  having at least two rollers  317  that are offset from one another and mounted on opposing sides of a center shaft  319 . Each of the rollers  317  rotates at the same speed in a direction perpendicular to the conveying path to ensure continuous and unidirectional rotation of the fiberglass apparatus  350  as it is conveyed throughout the assembly. 
     Once the fiberglass apparatus  350  is placed on the conveyor assembly  306 , the fiberglass apparatus  350  can be continuously spun and rotated as it undergoes the surface preparation process (i.e., the pre-wash, grinding and coating process) prior to reaching drying station  316 . Particularly, during the surface preparation process, each fiberglass apparatus  350  is self fed into the grinder station  310  to roughen the outer surface of the fiberglass apparatus  350  to produce a surface profile that is suitable for coating. For example, prior to the grinding process, the surfaces of the fiberglass apparatus  350  can generally be dirty, greasy, shiny, glassy, or fuzzy, thereby making it difficult for coatings to adhere to the surface. In embodiments, the grinder station  310  can optionally comprise a washer  318  mounted adjacent a double sided grinding apparatus  320  that is used to prewash the outer surface of apparatus  350 . The double sided grinding apparatus  320  can comprise a first and second grinder wheel  321 ,  323  arranged on opposing sides of the fiberglass apparatus  350 . Each grinder wheel  321 ,  323  can comprise a diamond grit ranging in size from about 30 grit to 120 grit in various embodiments depending upon the desired surface finish (e.g., coarse or fine) and the type of coating to be applied. In many applications of the present invention, because a ultra-violet (UV)resistant coating is applied to each of the fiberglass apparatuses, it is advantageous to use an abrasive with a grit size of about 70-90 grit, with 80 grit being preferable in certain aspects. In addition, to help ensure continuous rotation of the fiberglass apparatus  350  as it is fed through the grinder station  310 , the double sided grinding apparatus  318  can comprise at least two grinder rollers  324 . 
     Upon being washed and ground, the fiberglass apparatus  350  exits the grinder station  310  and can be exposed to compressed air  329  and a dryer  328  to remove any residual water or solvent from the fiberglass apparatus  350  and be dried prior to the coating station  310 . 
     As the fiberglass apparatus  350  is conveyed from the grinder station  310  into the coating station  312 , which is arranged proximate an outlet  325  of the grinder station  310 , a coating is applied to prevent and minimize corrosion of apparatus  350 . Coating station  312  can comprise a plurality of coating guide rollers  332  and a spray nozzle  334  pivotally mounted to a sprayer arm  336  to ensure uniform application of the coating solution to the fiberglass apparatus  350 . For example, as the rod is continuously rotated, one or more coating layers are applied to ensure homogeneous application of the coatings to the rod. In embodiments, various coating techniques may be utilized such as, for example, liquid or powder coating techniques. In certain aspects, the liquid or powder coatings may comprise a UV-resistant coating material that additionally helps to protect the fiberglass apparatus  350  from environmental effects such as extreme sun exposure. In some aspects, the coating comprises a UV-resistant material to prevent and minimize corrosion and sunlight damage. In some aspects, the coating station  312  may comprise two or more spray nozzles  334 , such that more than one coating of the same material or different materials may be applied to the fiberglass apparatus  350 . In some aspects, a first primer coating may be applied by a first spray nozzle  334  prior to a second UV-resistant coating being applied by a second spray nozzle  334 . In other aspects, a drier may be employed between the first spray nozzle  334  and the second spray nozzle  334  to help dry to the coating prior to a second coating being applied. 
     In some embodiments, system  300  can further comprise a transfer assembly  314  having a first and second transfer arm  360 ,  362 , each movable between a first and second position as shown in  FIGS. 8 and 9 , to transport the fiberglass apparatus  350  from the coating station  312  to the drying station  316  where a coating may be cured. Each transfer arm  360  and  362  can comprise an upper arm portion  363   a,    363   b  and a lower arm portion  365   a,    365   b.  The upper arm portions  363   a,    363   b  can comprise a generally arched shaped and can extend between a first end  366   a  and a second end  366   b,  wherein the second end  366   b  can be configured with a claw like member  367  having a pointed tip. The lower arm portion  365   a  of the first transfer arm  360  can comprise a support plate  369  having a holding unit  370  arranged therein which is sized to receive and engage with an end portion of the fiberglass apparatus  350 . The lower arm portion  365   a  can further comprise at least two transfer rollers  371   a,    371   b  that are each offset from a center axis  377  of the support plate  369 . Actuation of each the at least two rollers  371   a,    371   b  is triggered upon engagement of the fiberglass apparatus  350  with support plate  369 , wherein upon actuation, rollers  371   a,    371   b  are spun to continuously rotate the fiberglass apparatus  350  as it transferred from the conveyor assembly  306  to the drying station  316 . In other related aspects, it should be noted that the arrangement of the lower arm portions  365   a,    365   b  may vary, and can comprise, e.g., fewer or more rollers or a support arm, such as support arm  373  illustrated in  FIG. 8  that helps to secure positioning of the fiberglass apparatus  350  in holding unit  370 . Similar to lower arm portion  365   a,  lower arm portion  365   b  of the second transfer arm  362  may also comprise at least two transfer rollers  375   a,    375   b  that are arranged to facilitate continuous rotation of the fiberglass apparatus prior to transfer to drying station  316 . Once the fiberglass apparatus  350  has completed the surface preparation process and is ready to be transferred to drying station  316 , each of lower arm portions  365   a,    365   b  transition from a transfer position to a release position. In the release position, lower arm portions  365   a,    365   b  are raised to an angular position (e.g., approximately 40-60°) to allow release of the fiberglass apparatus  350  into drying station  316 . 
     During each of the pre-wash, grinding, coating and transferring positions, the rotation of the fiberglass apparatus  350  may be variable depending upon the size of the fiberglass apparatus. In some aspects, the fiberglass apparatus  350  is rotated such between about 0.001 of an inch to about 0.005 of an inch of fiberglass material is removed, in some other aspects between 0.001 of an inch up to about 0.05 of an inch, in some other aspects up to about 0.3125 of an inch of fiberglass are removed as the elongated fiberglass apparatus  350  passes through the grinding station. Drying station  316  can comprise at least two horizontal holding beams  370  each comprising a plurality of drying clamps  372  arranged atop of the holding beams  370  and being sized to accommodate a portion of the fiberglass apparatus  350 . In one embodiment, the fiberglass apparatus  350  can be cured (i.e., dried) utilizing conventional drying techniques such as, e.g., air drying. In other embodiments, various curing technologies such as UV curing, hot air curing, infrared curing, electrical curing or others can be employed to accelerate and to reduce drying times. In still other embodiments, system  300  may comprise two or more drying stations with  FIG. 9  being but one exemplary embodiment. 
     In other optional embodiments, although not depicted, system  300  can further comprise a second cutting station arranged adjacent drying station  316  that additionally reduces the size of each fiberglass apparatus  350  from the initial sizing performed at cutting station  302  (e.g., from about 90 feet to 36 feet). Once the apparatus is severed and sized accordingly, the fiberglass apparatus  350  may be fed through a bundler (not shown) where, in one embodiment, the fiberglass apparatuses  350  are bundled in bulk units. In certain aspects, the number of units can comprise between 10 to 100 units. It should be noted, however, that in other embodiments, the fiberglass apparatus  350  may be bundled in fewer or more units. 
     Once the fiberglass apparatus  350  is cured, it may be used in various applications. For example, in one embodiment, the fiberglass apparatus  350  can be installed to form a gate. In other aspects, the fiberglass apparatus  350  can be installed in an electrical fencing system  400  for used for livestock, such as in a horse pasture (see  FIG. 10A ). The electrical fencing system  400  can comprise a plurality of elongate posts  402  each manufactured utilizing the system and method discussed with reference to  FIGS. 4-9  In some embodiments, each of the plurality of elongate posts  402  can comprise at least one aperture  404  formed in or on a surface  405  of posts  402 , such that the apertures are similarly spaced and coaxially aligned with one another as shown in  FIG. 10B . In some embodiments, aperture  404  formed on each of the plurality of posts  202  can be sized to receive a conductive wire  406 , but may vary in other embodiments. In alternative embodiments, the aperture  404  formed in each of the plurality of posts  402  can receive a smaller diameter fiberglass apparatus according to certain embodiments of the present invention. In such an embodiment, the entirety or a portion of the horizontal components of the fencing system  400  can comprise fiberglass as well as the vertical posts. 
     In other exemplary embodiments, such as system  250  illustrated in  FIG. 10C , posts  452  can comprise fiberglass tubes with hollow enclosures. Posts  452  may also comprise apertures, such as apertures  404 , that are sized to receive an alternative element such as fiberglass or an electrical rod  456 . In still other embodiments, each of the plurality of posts  452  may be designed to include a stake element (not shown) having a pointed tip to facilitate removable insertion into a ground surface. In various embodiments, the plurality of elongate posts  452  and/or electrical rod  456  can comprise fiberglass, a solid fiberglass rod, a fiberglass tube, or combinations thereof Additionally, apertures  402  can comprise generally circular, oval, rectangular, or square shapes, other suitable configurations, or combinations thereof in various embodiments. 
     In yet another embodiment, the fiberglass apparatus may be used to form free stalls as previously discussed. In addition, rail members can be connected by using various connectors. Referring to 
       FIG. 11 , an end and side view drawing of the mechanical design of an connector piece  500  showing the annular design having an inside diameter (ID), outside diameter (OD), and width (W). One or more threaded holes  501  exist around the periphery of said connector piece  500 , with their axis being normal to the outer surface of said connector piece  100 . Each threaded hole  501  has threading through its full thickness, from the point of the outer diameter to the inner diameter, and has dimensions that will accommodate the machine threads that have been specified for the particular embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment there are three said threaded holes  501  in connector piece  500 , with two being directly opposite each other and the third being displaced 90 degrees from the other two. However different embodiments may consist of any number of threaded holes  501 , including a single threaded hole  501 . In the illustrated embodiment the axial location of each threaded hole  501  is in the center of the connecter piece  501  as viewed from the side, centered within its width (W). However different embodiments may have the threaded holes  501  at different axial positions, and there is not a requirement that they all have the same axial alignment. In some aspects, the ID of the connector piece  500  is between about ½ inch to about 12 inches, in some aspects about ¾ inch to about 8 inches, in some aspects about 1 inch to about 6 inches, and in some other aspects about 1¼ inches to about 3 inches, although one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that ranges and subranges within the foregoing ranges are contemplated. In some aspects the OD of the connector piece  500  is between about ¾ inch to about 121/4 inches, in some aspects about 1 inch to about 8 inches, in some aspects about 2 inches to about 6 inches, and in some other aspects about 2¼ inches to about 3 inches, although one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that ranges and subranges within the foregoing ranges are contemplated. In some aspects, the difference between the ID and the OD of the connector piece is between about ⅛ inch to about 1 inch, in some aspects between about ¼ inch and about ¾ inch, and in some other aspects between about ¼ inch and about ⅝ inch. In some aspects, the W of the connector piece  100  is between about ¼ inch and about 3 inches, in some aspects between about ½ inch and about 2½ inches, and in some other aspects between about 1 inch and 2 inches. 
     Referring to  FIG. 12 , a side view of the connector piece  500  of the present invention with the attachment hardware installed, prior to being mated to another connector piece as would be performed to assemble the swivel connector. As illustrated, the connector piece  500  is installed upon rail  510 . Threaded hole  501  at the bottom of the image is shown to contain a threaded fastener  502 , inserted in threaded hole  501  with a sufficient amount of thread engagement to hold it in position upon connector piece  500 . In this embodiment, said threaded fastener  502  is intended to be tightened upon rail  510  such that the seating point of short threaded fastener  502  makes contact with rail  510  with a force that may be sufficient to secure connector piece  500  to rail  510 . In this embodiment threaded fastener  502  is a socket set screw of a type that is commonly used in the threaded fastener industry, however it may be any design of bolt, screw, cap screw, or any other threaded fastener having a design and material of construction that enables it to be sufficient for the purpose of affixing connector piece  500  upon rail  510 . One or more of the threaded fasteners  502  may be absent from an embodiment of this invention if it is not necessary for connector piece  500  to be firmly affixed to rail  510 . A situation where this may occur, for example, would be when it is desirable to allow rail  510  to move axially or to rotate within connector piece  500 , or when attachment of connector piece  500  upon rail  510  may be performed adequately with some other threaded fastener. 
     Also as shown in this embodiment, threaded fastener assembly  503  comprises a threaded fastener  502 , such as a socket set screw of a type that is commonly used in the threaded fastener industry, and a threaded nut  504  that operably engages the threaded fastener  502 . In this aspect, the threaded fastener  502  of the threaded fastener assembly  503  may be longer than when the threaded fastener  502  is used to secure the connector piece  500  to rail  510 . In this embodiment, threaded fastener  503  is inserted in threaded hole  501  (not visible) with a sufficient amount of thread engagement to hold it in position upon connector piece  500 , and threaded nut  504  is installed upon threaded fastener  503 . In this embodiment threaded nut  504  is of a type that is commonly used in the threaded fastener industry, however it may be of any design, size, and material of construction that enables it to make thread engagement with threaded fastener  503 . In this embodiment, threaded nut  504  may be engaged with threaded fastener  503  by assembling connector piece  500 , threaded fastener  503 , and threaded nut  504  to create a residual static tensile stress in the threaded assembly that is sufficient to prevent movement of the connector piece  500 , threaded fastener  503 , and threaded nut  504  relative to each other. Methods of assembling threaded fasteners are known to those who have ordinary skill in the art. In this embodiment threaded nut  504  provides a secondary purpose of creating a spacing between the outer surface of connector piece  500  and the outer surface of a second connector piece  500  when the swivel connector assembly is completed. In other embodiments where it is not necessary or desirable to use a threaded fastener for the purpose of creating a spacing between the connector pieces  500 , any other type of mechanical spacer may be used, for example, a mechanical washer that is manufactured from any suitable material. In other embodiments where it is not necessary or desirable to use a threaded nut  504  or any other type of mechanical spacer between the connector pieces  500 , said threaded nut  504  or other mechanical spacer may be omitted from the swivel connector assembly while still allowing proper functioning of the swivel connector assembly by connection between the first and second connector pieces using a threaded fastener  502  or  503 . 
       FIG. 13  illustrates an embodiment whereby a plurality of swivel connectors  600  are affixed to rail  510 . In this embodiment, each swivel connector  600  is affixed to rail  510  using a plurality of threaded fasteners  502  on each first connector piece  500 A (said first connector piece being the one that is attached to rail  510 ), and the second connector piece  500 B is able to be rotatibly positioned to any angle α between the center axes of each swivel connector piece  500 A,  500 B that comprise said swivel connector  600 . It is obvious that the rotatability of each swivel connector  600  is independent of the others in this illustrated embodiment, thereby allowing for the insertion of a rail through the second connector piece  500 B at any angle relative to the horizontal rail  510  as illustrated in this embodiment. For example, the swivel connector  600  would allow the two rails to be perpendicular with each other, parallel with each other, or any angle between perpendicular and parallel. This exemplifies the versatility and adaptability of the swivel connector, enabling the erection of a fence that will conform to the contour of the land and the irregularities in surrounding structures. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 14A and 14B , exploded views of an embodiment whereby one swivel connector piece  500  may be attached to a baseplate  520 ,  521  by means of a threaded fastener  502 . In some aspects, connector piece  500  may be attached to baseplate  520 ,  521  by threaded fastener assembly  503 . (Threaded assembly is not  503  is not labeled in this view, but the numbering will be consistent with that used in  FIGS. 12 and 13 .  FIG. 14A  illustrates the attachment to a flat baseplate  520 , and  FIG. 14B  illustrates the attachment to a formed baseplate  521 . In some aspects, the flat baseplate  520  may be affixed to a flat surface, such as a wall or post, by a fastener that goes through the baseplate, an adhesive, or combinations thereof. In some aspects, the formed baseplate  521  may be affixed to an object, such as a post. These figures show only two possible designs of a baseplate that may be suitable for use with the swivel connector piece  500  to form a swivel connection between the connector piece  500  and the respective baseplate  520 ,  521 , but those who are skilled in the art will recognize that a limitless number of baseplate designs and mounting methodologies may be achieved so long as there is a threaded hole  501  in the baseplate having dimensions to be compatible with threaded fastener  502 . 
     In some aspects, the threaded fastener  502  that is used to secure the connector piece  500  to the rail  510  will have a length that is about ⅛ inch to about 1 inch, in some aspects about ¼ inch to about ¾ inch, and in some other aspects about ⅜ inch to about ⅝ inch longer than the difference between the ID and OD, such that a minimal amount of the threaded fastener  502  sticks out past the OD when the threaded fastener  502  is fastened down to secure the connector piece to the rail  510 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 15A and 15B , exploded views of the swivel connector piece  500  of the present invention connected to a stationary object  530 ,  531  such as a fence post or wall, by using only a threaded fastener  502  that may be inserted through the width of the stationary object  530 ,  531 . In the illustrated embodiment, said threaded fastener  502  is a threaded rod of any nominal length that will enable it to be inserted through a hole in a post or other stationary object  530 ,  531 , thereby enabling the swivel connector piece to be used for attaching a rail to a post or other stationary object  530 ,  531 , such as would occur in the design and construction of a fence or pen. In other embodiments, a swivel connector piece  500  may be affixed to a wall or other structure by means of passing a threaded fastener  502  through the structure in a manner similar to the illustrated embodiment. Moreover, the illustrated embodiment demonstrates the usage of a threaded bolt, however any suitable threaded fastener such as a threaded rod or carriage screw may be used so long as the machined threads on the suitable threaded fastener will threadably engage with the threaded hole  501  in the connector piece  500 . Methods of assembling threaded fasteners are known to those who have ordinary skill in the art. 
     Referring to  FIG. 16 , a side view of the swivel connector of the present invention, three connector pieces  500  are configured to form a three-piece swivel connector  700  to attach three rails  510  to a common rail  510 . The angle that is formed between the annular axis of each connector piece  500  and any other is both arbitrary and infinitely variable because of the versatile design of the swivel connector. This illustrated embodiment of a three piece swivel connector  700  is not intended to limit the number of swivel connector pieces  500  that may be joined together on one assembly to three. A greater number of swivel connector pieces  500  may be joined together as may be necessary to accommodate any conceivable design or configuration of rails, partitions, fencing materials, and other structures together. 
     Referring to  FIG. 17 , a side view of the swivel connector of the present invention, the swivel connector assembly  601  is illustrated to show the attachment of two rails to each other, wherein one rail diameter is larger than the other. In this embodiment, the first connector piece  550  is larger in diameter than the second connector piece  551 , with the inside diameters of these pieces being selected to accommodate the size of two rails being held together by the swivel connector, wherein one rail is of a different diameter than the other. As noted above, the angle that may exist between the annular axis of one connector piece to the other is variable. Moreover, as noted earlier, any number of connector pieces may be threadably attached together. Therefore, it will be obvious to one skilled in the art that any number of connector pieces that are threadably attached to each other, with each having any size that may be similar to or different from the others, is within the scope of the present invention. 
     In some aspects, the threaded fastener  502  that is used in the threaded fastener assembly  503  to secure the connector piece  500  to another connector piece  500  or a baseplate  520 ,  521  will have a length that is about ½ inch to about 3 inches, in some aspects about ¾ inch to about 2 inches, and in some other aspects about 1 inch to about 1½ inches long. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the threaded fastener  502  in the threaded fastener assembly  503  will have a desired length to connect the connector piece  500  to another connector piece  500 , baseplate  520 , baseplate  521 , or stationary object  530 ,  531 , which may also depend on whether or not a threaded nut  504  is utilized. 
     Various embodiments of systems, devices, and methods have been described herein. These embodiments are given only by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the claimed inventions. It should be appreciated, moreover, that the various features of the embodiments that have been described may be combined in various ways to produce numerous additional embodiments. Moreover, while various materials, dimensions, shapes, configurations and locations, etc. have been described for use with disclosed embodiments, others besides those disclosed may be utilized without exceeding the scope of the claimed inventions. 
     Persons of ordinary skill in the relevant arts will recognize that the subject matter hereof may comprise fewer features than illustrated in any individual embodiment described above. The embodiments described herein are not meant to be an exhaustive presentation of the ways in which the various features of the subject matter hereof may be combined. Accordingly, the embodiments are not mutually exclusive combinations of features; rather, the various embodiments can comprise a combination of different individual features selected from different individual embodiments, as understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art. Moreover, elements described with respect to one embodiment can be implemented in other embodiments even when not described in such embodiments unless otherwise noted. 
     Although a dependent claim may refer in the claims to a specific combination with one or more other claims, other embodiments can also include a combination of the dependent claim with the subject matter of each other dependent claim or a combination of one or more features with other dependent or independent claims. Such combinations are proposed herein unless it is stated that a specific combination is not intended. 
     Any incorporation by reference of documents above is limited such that no subject matter is incorporated that is contrary to the explicit disclosure herein. Any incorporation by reference of documents above is further limited such that no claims included in the documents are incorporated by reference herein. Any incorporation by reference of documents above is yet further limited such that any definitions provided in the documents are not incorporated by reference herein unless expressly included herein. 
     For purposes of interpreting the claims, it is expressly intended that the provisions of 35 U.S.C. § 112(f) are not to be invoked unless the specific terms “means for” or “step for” are recited in a claim.