Under the present invention, resources such as gateways which interconnect usually disparate networks are released for processes which, while originally being inter-network, become intra-network, and the resource is no longer needed for the intra-network process to be completed. In characteristic manner, said stiffener is provided with at least one composite assembly mounted on said downstream end, said composite assembly comprising fibers and a polymer matrix. The strap also includes at least two modes of operation.