I can handle things! I'm smart! Not like everybody says... like dumb... I'm smart and I want respect!
I'll only chime in because I was addressed by name. Blakesq has answered everything correctly (though I skimmed a bit briefly).
I was trying to figure out some way to define "means" without using "means." Finally turned to a dictionary: "instrumentality used to achieve an end". The instrumentality is a thing -- article (object with no moving parts, e.g., claw hammer) or a machine/apparatus (object with moving parts, e.g., pneumatic jack hammer).
Note that "means for" is a special phrase in patent law and is controlled by the law in a very specific way. You should avoid using it unless you understand that law and know what you're doing. I find the language useless (given its very narrow interpretation) and avoid it.
Regards.
