Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
CA 02493736 2005-O1-21
WIRE MESH FENCING SYSTEM
Background of the Invention
Field of the Invention
[0002] The present inventions generally relate to fencing, and in particular,
to fencing systems having a fence panel held by rails which are connected to
fence
posts.
Description of the Related Art
[0003] Traditionally, fences have been used in residential and industrial
settings as a barrier for privacy and/or security. Fences typically have
vertical fence
posts, which have a bottom portion anchored to the ground and an upper portion
that
supports a panel which can be made of woven metal wires. Such woven wires can
form a fabric defining a diamond (commonly known as "chain-link") or other
patterns. Other types of fence panels are made from wires welded into a
desired
design. Metal couplers are used to attach the panels to the posts.
[0004] Long portions of such panels can be rolled for storage and
transport. Because the such metal fabrics can be stored in rolls for extended
period of
time, the metal may retain its curved shape when the fabric is unrolled. Thus,
the
fabric may become biased toward its rolled position thereby making
installation of the
panels difficult.
[0005] Conventional fences have couplers that attach the panels to the
fence posts. For example, chain-link fences have metal couplers that attach
the chain-
link fabric to the fence posts. The metal couplers are generally U-shaped and
have
ends that are bent to form a closed loop around a wire of the chain-link
fabric. The
ends of the coupler are coupled to wires on either side of the fence post so
that the
fence post is between the U-shaped coupler and the chain-link fabric.
[0006] To remove the metal couplers for repair or disassembly, the bent
ends of the couplers have to be straightened or cut so that the chain-link
fabric can be
removed. Generally, tools or machines are used to straighten the ends of the U-
shaped
wires. Other conventional fences, such as wire strand fences, have several
wire
strands that are stapled to wooden fence post. These staples are permanently
embedded in the wooden post making replacement of a wire strand difficult.
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Summary of the Invention
[0007] In accordance with at least one embodiment, a fencing system
comprises a fence panel, a first rail including at least first and second
channels, each
of the first and second channels having an open end, the open end of the first
channel
facing toward the open end of the second channel, and a retainer having first
and
second ends. The retainer is configured such that the first end can be
received in the
first channel and the second end can be received in the second channel, with
the
retainer extending through the panel.
[0008] In accordance with at least one embodiment, a method is provided
for constructing a fence comprising at least one rail and at least one panel.
The
method comprises inserting a retainer through a portion of the panel, and
sliding a
portion of the panel and the retainer into a channel defined in the rail.
[0009] In accordance with at least one embodiment, a kit for building a
fencing system comprises a fence panel, a first rail including at least first
and second
channels, each of the first and second channels having an open end, the open
end of
the first channel facing toward the open end of the second channel. The kit
also
includes a retainer having first and second ends, the retainer being
configured such
that the first end can be received in the first channel and the second end can
be
received in the second channel, with the retainer extending through the panel.
[0010] In accordance with at least one embodiment, a fencing system
comprises a post, an upper rail connected to the post and including a channel.
The
system also includes a panel of fencing having an upper portion and means for
slidably anchoring the upper portion of the panel within the channel of the
upper rail.
Brief Description of the Drawings
[0011] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present
inventions will now be described with reference to the drawings of preferred
embodiments, which are intended to illustrate and not to limit the inventions,
and in
which figures:
[0012] FIGURE 1 is an elevational view of a fencing system, the fencing
system having a panel between a pair of upright fence post assemblies and
upper and
lower rails;
[0013] FIGURE lA is an elevational view of a fencing system with a pair
of panels;
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[0014] FIGURE 2 is an enlarged elevational view of one of the post
assemblies shown in FIGURE 1;
[0015] FIGURE 3 is a perspective view of the lower rail shown in
FIGURE 1;
[0016] FIGURE 3A is a perspective view of the upper rail shown in
FIGURE 1;
[0017] FIGURE 3B is a perspective view of a modification of the lower
rail illustrated in FIGURE 3;
[0018] FIGURE 4 is an elevational view of the panel shown in FIGURE I;
[0019] FIGURE 5 is an enlarged elevational view of the portion of the
fencing system identified by line 5-5 of FIGURE 1;
[0020] FIGURE 6 is a top plan view of a bracket shown in FIGURE 2;
[0021] FIGURE 7 is a side elevational view of a panel coupled to a rail
with a retainer;
[0022] FIGURE 8 is a perspective view of the retainer shown in FIGURE
7, the retainer having a slot;
[0023] FIGURE 9 is a top plan view of the retainer shown in FIGURE 7, a
portion of a panel being illustrated in phantom;
[0024] FIGURE 10 is cross-section of the rail and retainer of FIGURE 7
taken along line 10-10;
[0025] FIGURE 11 is an elevational view of a fencing system in
accordance with another embodiment; and
[0026] FIGURE 12 is an elevational view of a fencing system in
accordance with an additional embodiment.
Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments
[0027] FIGURE 1 illustrates a fencing system 20 constructed in
accordance with a preferred embodiment. Each section 22 of the fencing system
20
preferably includes post assemblies 24, 26, rails 30, 32, and a panel 36. The
post
assemblies 24, 26 are vertically oriented and held within the ground 38.
[0028] In the illustrated embodiment, the post assemblies 24, 26 stand
upright and are substantially parallel. The post assemblies 24, 26 are
connected by the
horizontally oriented rails 30, 32. The rail 30 is connected to an upper end
of the post
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assemblies 24, 26. The rail 32 is connected to a lower end of the post
assemblies 24,
26. The panel 36 is spaced above the ground 38 and held between the rails 30,
32 and
between the post assemblies 24, 26.
[0029] To assist in the description of the fencing system 20, words such as
upward, upper, downward, lower, upright, vertical and horizontal are used to
describe
the accompanying figures. It will be appreciated, however, that the
illustrated
embodiments can be located or oriented in a variety of desired positions,
including
various angles, sideways and even upside down.
[0030] With reference to FIGURE 2, the post assembly 24 comprises an
end cap 40, a body portion 44, and a plurality of brackets 48, 50, 52. The
post
assembly 24 can be used as a fence line post or end post and is configured to
provide
support for the rails 30, 32 and the panel 36. A lower end of the post 24 can
be
anchored into the ground in any known manner. Figure 1 illustrates the lower
end of
the post 24 being anchored in the ground 38 with concrete C. Any other method
for
anchoring the post 24 can be used.
[0031] Each of the brackets is coupled to the rails and/or the panel 36.
Generally, the end cap 40 is attached to the top of the body 44 and the
brackets 48, 50,
52 are spaced along and coupled to the body 44.
[0032] The end cap 40 is coupled to and covers a first end 60 of the body
44. The end cap 40 has a curved portion 56 that is connected to a flange 58,
which is
sized to fit around a portion of the body 44. In one embodiment, the body 44
has a
rectangular cross-sectional profile and the flange 58 defines a generally
rectangular
opening that is configured and sized to fit over the end 60 of the body 44. In
other
embodiments, the body 44 can have other shaped cross-sectional profiles. For
example, the body 44 can have a circular, elliptical, or the like cross-
sections. The
end cap 40 is configured to cover the end 60 and provide a smooth surface,
which may
reduce injury, for example, during assembly and installation of the fencing
system 20.
The body 44 can be hollow (e.g., a thin walled post) and the end cap 40 can
cover an
opening of the end 60 to ensure that material or fluids do not enter the inner
portion of
the body 44. For example, the end cap 40 can prevent water from passing
through the
end 60 and into the inner portion of the body 44.
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[0033] The end cap 40 can be configured to prevent the brackets 48, 50, 52
from sliding off of the body 44. The wall of the flange 58 is sized to prevent
the
brackets, which are engaged with the body 44 and connected to the rails 30,
32, from
passing over the flange 58. Although not illustrated, the end cap 40 can
include
fasteners that couple the end cap 40 to the body 44. For example, a screw,
pin, or the
like can be used to securely attach the cap 40 to the end 60. The end cap 40
can be
made of metal, plastic, or the like.
[0034] The central portion 64 extends between the ends 60, 62 and defines
an outer surface 66 and inner surface. The inner surface can define a channel
extending through the body 44.
[0035] In the illustrated embodiment, the body 44 has generally
rectangular outer cross-section profile which defines a rectangular outer
surface 66.
The body 44 also has a generally rectangular inner cross-section profile
defining the
inner surface (not shown) which forms a channel through the body 44. The
channel
extending between the ends 60, 62 is defined by the inner surfaces of the
central
portion 64 and can be rectangular in cross-section. Although not illustrated,
the body
44 can be cylindrical with a generally circular cross-sectional profile. The
cross
section of the body 44 can be uniform or can vary along its longitudinal axis.
[0036] In one exemplary, but non-limiting, embodiment, the body 44 has a
square cross-sectional profile, and each side of the square is approximately 2
inches
wide. In this exemplary embodiment, the post assembly 24 has an overall length
of
about 5 feet to about 6 feet above the ground when the fencing system 20 is
assembled. As noted above, a portion of the post 24 is disposed within the
ground. In
one embodiment, the second end 62 is disposed approximately 2 feet into the
ground.
Those skilled in the art appreciate that second end 62 may have any desired
length so
that it can be inserted into the ground or concrete, depending, for example,
upon the
desired height and/or strength of the fencing system 20. The length of the
body 44 can
be varied depending on whether the post is a line post or end post, or whether
the
fencing system 20 is free standing.
[0037] In one exemplary but non-limiting embodiment, the post 24 is
constructed from steel with a thickness of about 1/8~' of an inch. In other
embodiments, the steel can have other thicknesses. The post 24 can also be
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constructed from other types of metals and other materials with suitable
characteristics
such as plastics, wood, or composite materials. One of ordinary skill in the
art can
determine the appropriate combination of material type, thickness, and shape
to
achieve the desired resistance to wind loads, or other forces, such as when
the fencing
system 20 is hit by an object.
[0038] The post assembly 24 can be coated with materials such as paint,
for example, to match the post 24 with other components of the fencing system
20 or
other materials to inhibit corrosion. In some embodiments, the entire post
assembly
24 is coated with material to inhibit rusting of the post assembly 24,
especially the
portion of the body 44 within or near the ground.
[0039] In some embodiments, the body 44 can be manufactured by cutting
a piece of extruded steel (e.g., a 2 x 2 piece of steel) to the desired
dimension.
Alternatively, the body 44 can be formed from sheet metal bent into the
desired shape
of the post 24. The post 24 can be formed with various dimensions which can be
larger or smaller, for example, than the above dimensions depending upon the
desired
use of the body 44. Generally, the dimensions of the post 24 can be increased
if, for
example, the panels 36 are heavy or if the system 20 is subject to large
forces (e.g.,
high wind loads).
[0040] The post 24 provides support to the rails 30, 32 and the panel 36 so
that the fencing system 20, as shown in FIGURE 1, can be freestanding.
Advantageously, the body 44 provides sufficient support to limit the movement
of the
fencing system 20 in plural directions. The post assembly 24 can be used as a
fence
line post to support two sections 22, 22' of fencing, where each section 22,
22'
includes two rails 30, 32, 30', 32' and a panel 36, 36', respectively, as
shown in
FIGURE lA. With respect to the multi-panel embodiment of the fencing section
20
illustrated in FIGURE lA, the section panel 22' can be constructed identically
or
substantially identically as the panel 22.
[0041] The components of the section 22' are identified with the same
reference numerals as those used to identify corresponding components of the
section
22, except that " ' " has been used. The post assembly 24 has at least one
bracket 48,
50 that hold the rails 30, 32 on either side of the post assembly 24.
Preferably, each
post assembly 24 supports a plurality of brackets where at least one of the
brackets is
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used to hold the panel 36. FIGURE lA shows the post assembly 24 with the rails
30,
32 supporting panel 36 on one side and rails 30', 32' supporting panel 36' on
the other
side.
[0042] With continued reference to FIGURE 2, the bracket 48 can be
attached to the body 44 near the first end 60. The bracket 52 is attached near
the
second end 62. The bracket 50 is attached to the body 44 at the central
portion of the
body 44 midway between the brackets 48, 52. The brackets surround and contact
the
outer surface 66 and hold the rails 30, 32 and/or the panel 36. The brackets
48, 50, 52
can be substantially similar to each other as described in further detail
below.
[0043] With reference to FIGURE 3, the rail 32 comprises sides 80, 82,
and a bottom 86. The rail 32 has ends 88 and 90. The sides 80, 82 define a
channel
94 which extends from the bottom 86 to an opening 96. In the illustrated
embodiment, the rail 32 has a generally I-shaped cross-sectional profile with
the
opening 96 at an upper end.
[0044] The side 80 has an upper channel 100 and a lower channel 102
disposed at the ends of a wall 104. In the illustrated embodiment, the
channels 100,
102 are generally U-shaped in cross-section. The upper channel 100 has a wall
101
and the lower channel 102 has a wall 103.
[0045] The side 82 has an upper channel 106 and a lower channel 108
disposed at the ends of a wall 110. In the illustrated embodiment, the
channels 106,
108 are generally U-shaped in cross-section. The upper channel 106 has a wall
107
and the lower channel 108 has a wall 109. The lower channels 102, 108 are
connected
to the ends of the bottom 86. The opening 96 is between the edges of the upper
channels 100, 106.
[0046] The longitudinal axes of the channels 100, 102, 106, 108 can be
substantially parallel. The channels 100, 106 define a rectangular channel and
the
channels 102, 108 define another rectangular channel.
[0047] The channel 94, the upper channels 100, 106, and the lower
channels 102, 108 define a generally I-shaped channel 112. The channel 112
extends
from the end 88 to the end 90 of the rail 32. A further advantage is provided
where at
least one of the channels 100, 102, 106, 108, 112, described in greater detail
below
with reference to FIGURES 7-10, has a generally uniform cross-sectional shape
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CA 02493736 2005-O1-21
of the rail 32. In the illustrated embodiment, the channels 100, 102, 106, 108
have
substantially similar cross-sectional profiles. In some embodiments, the
channels 100,
102, 106, 108 can have different cross-sectional profiles.
[0048] The bottom 86 is connected to the sides 80, 82 of the rail 32 and
extends from the end 88 to the end 90. The bottom 86 defines one side of the
lower
channels 102, 108 and is generally rectangular in shape.
[0049] With continued reference to FIGURE 3, the end 88 includes a pair
of openings 116, 118 that pass through the sides 82, 80, respectively. In the
illustrated
embodiment, the opening 116 passes through the wall 110 and is in the form of
a
circular opening. The opening 118 passes through the wall 104 and also is a
circular
opening. The openings 116, 118 are sized so that a fastener (e.g., a bolt,
pin, screw, or
the like) can be passed through walls 80, 82 to attach the rail 32 to the post
assembly
24. Preferably, the openings 116, 118 are aligned so that the fastener can be
inserted
through the rail 32.
[0050] The end 90 is similar to the end 88 and has a pair of openings 120,
122. The end 90 can be attached to the post assembly 26 as shown in FIGURE 1.
In
the illustrated embodiment of FIGURE 1, the end 90 is coupled to the bracket
124 of
the post assembly 26.
[0051] As shown in FIGURE 3A, the rail 30 can be similar or identical to
the rail 32 to reduce the cost of production of the fencing system 20. Those
skilled in
the art recognize that there are various configurations for the rails 30, 32.
For
example, in one embodiment illustrated in FIGURE 3B, the rail 32a has a pair
of sides
80a, 82a defining a pair of channels 102a, 108a, respectively. A channel 94a
is
between the sides 80, 82 and is configured to receive a portion of the panel
36.
[0052] With respect to FIGURE 4, the panel 36 comprises a plurality of
horizontal wires 140 and a plurality of vertical wires 144. As shown in FIGURE
1,
the panel 36 is sized and configured to extend between the post assemblies 24,
26,
which are connected by the rails 30, 32. The panel 36 also extends from the
rail 30 to
the rail 32.
[0053] The length of the panel 36 is similar to the length of the rails 30, 32
so that an upper portion 151 of the panel 36 can fit within the rail 30 and a
lower
portion 153 of the panel 36 can fit within the rail 32. The rails 30, 32
capture and
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CA 02493736 2005-O1-21
provide support to the panel 36 to inhibit movement of the panel 36. For
example, the
rails 30, 32 can reduce bowing of the panel 36. Further, the rails 30, 32 can
be
conveniently grasped during, for example, assembly of the fencing system 20.
The
rails 30, 32 can protect and prevent damage to the portions of the panel 36
that are
disposed within the rails 30, 32. Additionally, the rails 30, 32 can provide a
medium
for an aesthetic features. The illustrated rails 30, 32, for example, but
without
limitation, provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance for the fencing
system 20.
Additionally, the illustrated rails 30, 32 receive the upper edge of the panel
36, thereby
hiding the upper edge from view. As such, the upper edge of the section 22 is
more
aesthetically pleasing.
[0054] The plurality of wires 140 is in the form of several pairs of
vertically spaced wires. An upper pair of spaced horizontal wires 150 is at
the upper
portion 151, and a lower pair of spaced horizontal wires 152 is at the lower
portion
153 of the panel 36.
[0055] A further advantage is provided where each pair of wires 150, 152
is configured to fit within a rail. For example, in the illustrated embodiment
of
FIGURE 1, the pair of wires 150 fit within and are thereby hidden from view by
the
rail 30 (as shown in FIGURE 5). Similarly, the pair of wires 152 is disposed
within
the rail 32. Thus, the pair of wires 152 is configured to fit within the
channel 94 the
rail 32.
[0056] A further advantage is provided where the wires 150, 152 are
generally straight and sized so that the upper portion 151 and lower portion
153 can be
slid along the rails 30, 32, respectively. As such, assembly and/or
disassembly is
further simplified, described in greater detail below.
[0057] Between the pair of wires 150, 152, are additional pairs of
vertically spaced horizontal wires. The pairs of horizontally spaced wires 140
are
generally parallel and defined in a single plane. An additional advantage is
provided
where the horizontal wires 140 have a diameter smaller than the diameter of
the
vertical wires 144. In some exemplary embodiments, the horizontal wires can be
2 to
6 gauge wires. The horizontal wires 140 can be made of metal, plastic, or the
like.
For example, in one embodiment, the horizontal wires 140 are made of steel. In
one
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exemplary non-limiting embodiment, the wires forming each pair of spaced
horizontal
wires 140 are separated by a distance of about 1 inch.
[0058] Advantageously, the pairs of horizontal wires 140 can reduce the
movement of the panel 36. The pairs of wires and provide more structural
support
than a signal wire. For example, a pair of wires 140 can reduce movement of
the
panel 36 more than a single wjre when a force in the vertical or horizontal
directions
is applied to the panel 36. Further, the spacing of the wires can provide a
[0059] The wires 140, 144 results in a panel 36 having slender rectangular
openings that can be seen through, while providing a strong and rigid barrier.
Conventional fences typically have evenly spaced horizontal wires that are
welded to
evenly spaced vertical wires. A weld between the one of the horizontal wires
and the
vertical wires may break resulting in a weak portion of the fence. The panel
36 has
pairs of wires 140, each wire is, for example, welded to a vertical wire. In
the
illustrated embodiment, the pair of wires 150 has two wires that can be welded
to a
wire 156. If one of the welds breaks, there is the other intact weld to
provide strength
and stiffness of the panel 36.
[0060] The plurality of vertical wires 144 comprises wires that are
vertically oriented and generally evenly spaced along the length of the panel
36. In the
illustrated embodiment, the vertical wires 144 are generally parallel and
defined a
plane. The wires 144 extend from the lower pair of wires 152 to the upper pair
of
wires 150. In one non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the vertical wires 144
are
spaced apart by a distance of about 1 3/4 inches and are formed from 4-gauge
wire,
the appearance of which is reflected in Figure 11. In another non-limiting
exemplary
embodiment, the vertical wires 144 are spaced apart by about 4 inches, the
appearance
of which is illustrated in Figures 1 and lA. The vertical wires 144 can be
made of a
metal, plastic, or other similar material. For example, in one embodiment the
vertical
wires 144 are made from steel. Additionally, the spacing of the pairs of wires
can be
arranged to provide a unique aesthetic appearance. For example, the
illustrated panel
36 including the closely spaced pairs of wires 144 provides a unique aesthetic
appearance, in addition to the other advantages noted above.
[0061] In one embodiment, the vertical wires 144 are generally within a
plane, such that the plurality of pairs of vertically spaced horizontal wires
140 can be
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attached to either side of the plurality of vertical wires 144. The wires can
be treated
to prolong the life of the wires. For example, the wires 140, 144 can be made
of steel
which is susceptible to rust. The wires 140, 144 can be covered in paint,
polyester, or
the like to prevent rusting.
[0062] As discussed above, the panel 136 can be made by welding the
horizontal pairs of vertically spaced wires 140 to the wires 144. Preferably,
the wires
140 are on one side of the vertical wires 144. In other embodiments, however,
some
of the pairs of spaced horizontal wires 144 can be on one side of the vertical
wires 144
and other horizontal wires 140 are on the other side of the vertical wires
144. The
panel 36 can be generally flat sheets which can be stacked for convenient
storage and
transport. The panels 36 can be generally rigid so that they can be easily
moved
during, for example, assembly and installation. The upper portion 151 and the
lower
portion 153 can slide along and within the channels (e.g., channel 94 of rail
32) of the
rails because of the rigidity of the panel 36.
[0063] In one embodiment, the plurality of vertical wires 144 include the
vertical wire 156 at one end of the panel 36 and a vertical wire 158 at the
other end of
the panel 36. With reference to FIGURES 1 and 5, the wires 156, 158 are
between the
body 44 and a portion of the brackets. For example, the wire 158 is held
between the
body 44 and the brackets 48, 50, 52. The upper end of the wire 158 is between
a
portion of the bracket 48 and the body 44, as shown in FIGURE 5. The central
portion of the wire 158 is between a portion of the bracket 50 and the body
44. The
bracket 50 inhibits substantial movement of the wire 158 away from the body 44
and
is disposed midway between the brackets 48, 52. The fastener passes through
the
bracket 50 and holds the vertical wire 158 between the fastener and the body
44. The
lower end of the wire 158 is between a portion of the bracket 52 and the body
44. The
post assembly 26 holds the wire 156 in a similar manner.
[OOb4] A further advantage is provided where the bracket 50 is attached to
the panel 36 so as to be aligned with a pair of spaced horizontal wires 140,
identified
generally by the reference numeral 50A in Figure lA. For example, positioned
as
such, the bracket 50 engages the pair of wires 140, thereby enhancing the
anchoring of
the wires 140 relative to the post assembly 24. Preferably, at least one
bracket 50,
50A is connected to the pair of horizontal wires 140 that is the third pair
from the
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uppermost pair, this position being identified generally by the reference
numeral 157,
although the bracket 50, 50A is not illustrated in this position. Of course,
the brackets
50, 50A can be installed in any combination of the illustrated positions, as
well as, for
example, at every set of horizontal pairs 140, alternating sets of pairs 140,
or other
arrangements.
[0065] Those skilled in the art recognize that various other types of panels
can be used for the fencing system 20. For example, in one embodiment, the
panel 36
consists of generally evenly spaced horizontal and vertical wires. In other
embodiments, the panel 36 can be a mesh with non-orthogonal wires. Optionally,
fasteners can be used to attach the vertical wires 144 to the horizontal wires
140
instead of or in addition to welding. The fasteners can be wire clips, wire
brackets,
plastic fasteners, and the like.
[0066] The panel 36 provides a strong barrier. Spaces between the vertical
and horizontal wires provide for visibility through the fencing system 20. The
pattern
of the wires results in a stiff panel 36 that can withstand high loads without
compromising the structural integrity of the fencing system 20.
[0067] FIGURE 5 includes an enlarged illustration of the portion of the
fencing system 20 identified by the line 5-5 in FIGURE lA. The post assembly
24 is
coupled to the pair of rails 30, 31' which slidably holds the panel 36, 36',
respectively.
Thus, the post assembly 24 holds the rails 30, 30' and the panels 36, 36'.
[0068] With reference to FIGURE 5 and FIGURE 6, the bracket 48
comprises the band 170 and a pair of clamp jaws 174, 176. The band 170, which
has
a generally square shape, can be coupled to the outer surface 66 of the body
44.
[0069] The jaw 174 has a face 196 that contacts one side of the rail 30
while the jaw 176 has a face 198 that contacts the other side of the rail 30
when the
fastener 184 brings the jaws 174, 176 towards each other. In one embodiment,
the
fastener 184 pulls face 196 into contact with a pair of side wall 195 of the
rail 30
(shown in Figure 3A) and face 198 into contact with a side wall 197 of the
rail 30.
[0070] A further advantage is provided where the jaws 174, 176 include a
portion extending transversely to the band 170, as shown in FIGURE 5. For
example,
such a transversely extending portion ensures a large contact area between the
faces
196, 198 and the sides 195, 197 of the rail 30 to further secure the rail 30
in a desired
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location. The faces 196, 198 grip the sides I95, 197 and inhibit movement of
the rail
30. Those skilled in the art recognize that the bracket 48 could have various
other
configurations and sizes.
[0071] With reference to FIGURE 5, the bracket 48 attaches the post
assembly 24 to the rail 30 and comprises a band 170, and clamps 174, 176. Each
of
the clamps 174,176 has an opening 180,182, respectively. A fastener 184 is
disposed
through the openings 180, 182, the panel 36, and the openings 186,188 at the
end 189
of the rail 30, which shown in FIGURE 3A. 'The band 170 has an inner surface
183,
as shown in FIGURE 6, that contacts the outer surface 66 of the post assembly
24.
The fastener 184 brings together the clamps 174, 176 so that the band 170
grips the
body 44.
[0072] The bracket 48 also holds the panel 36 which is disposed within the
rail 30. The vertical wire 158 is captured between the fastener 184 and the
elongated
body 44. Thus, the fastener 184 and the body 44 inhibit the horizontal
movement of
the panel 36. The fastener 184 can also limit the vertical movement of the
panel 36
because the fastener 184 is located between the pair of wires 150. The pair of
wires
150 has an upper wire 190 and a lower wire 192 and the fastener 184 is located
between the wires 190, 192. Thus, the fastener 184 is located between the
wires 190,
192, and the vertical wire 158 is located between the fastener 184 and the
body 44 to
inhibit both the vertical and horizontal movement of the panel 36.
[0073] The bracket 48 holds the rail 30, which, in turn, limits the
movement of the panel 36. The rail 30 prevents the movement of the panel 36 in
the
upward direction. 'The sides of the rail 30 limit the lateral movement of the
panel 36.
[0074] Additionally, the transversely extending portions of the clamps
174, 176 allow the brackets 48, 200 to be nested together, as shown in FIGURE
5.
The brackets 48, 200 can be similar or identical and are used to hold rails on
either
side of the post 24. The manufacturing cost for the fencing system 20 can be
reduced
because at least two of the brackets of the post 24 can be similar or
identical. Further,
the fencing system 20 can be conveniently assembled by using similar brackets.
In the
illustrated embodiment, the bracket 48 is oriented so that the transversely
extending
portion extends downwardly. The bracket 200 is oriented so that the
transversely
extending portion extends upwardly. The bands 170, 206 of the brackets 48,
200,
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CA 02493736 2005-O1-21
respectively, can be proximally disposed so that the rails 30, 30' are at the
same height
above the ground.
[0075] With continued reference to FIGURE 5 and FIGURE 3A, the rail
30 is oriented so that the opening 199 is at the lower portion of the rail 30
so that the
panel 36 can be disposed and within the channel 201 of the rail 30. A portion
of the
upper portion 151 of the panel 36 is between the side 203, 205. Preferably,
the pair of
wires 150 is slidably disposed between the sides 203, 205 of the rail 30.
[0076) The post assembly 24 has the bracket 20(1 that is attached to an end
202 of rail 30'. The bracket 200 is oriented such that the clamps 204 extend
in the
upward direction. The clamp 200 has the band 206 that is adjacent and below
the
band 170. The bands 170, 206 can be closely spaced together with longitudinal
axes
that are coaxial.
[0077] A further advantage is provided where the panel 36 is engaged with
at least one of the rails 30, 32. For example, FIGURE 7 illustrates the lower
portion
153 of the panel 36 held in the rail 32 by a retainer 210. The lower portion
153 has a
pair of wires 212, 214 located within the channel 112 and is slidably disposed
within
the rail 32.
[0078) The wires 212, 214 are connected to the vertical wire 144. The
wire 214 is captured between the retainer 210 and the bottom 86 of the rail 32
to
inhibit the vertical and lateral movement of the wire 214, thereby inhibiting
the
movement of the panel 36. That is, the retainer 210 limits the movement of the
panel
36 in both the vertical direction and in the lateral or transverse direction
towards either
wall 104 or wall 110. The post assemblies 24, 26 inhibits movement of the
panel 36
in a direction parallel to the rails 30, 32.
[0079] The wire 212 can be located above the wire 214 and can be located
between the walls 104, 110. The wires 212, 214 are attached, preferably
welded, to
one side of the plurality of vertical wires 144.
[0080) A further advantage is provided where the retainer 210 and the
panel 36 can slide along the rail 32. As such, the retainer 210 can slidably
contact the
rail 32 and limit movement of the panel 36 while it slides along the rail 32.
The
retainer 210 and the panel 36 are conveniently removably coupled to the rails
30, 32.
For example, the retainer 210 and a portion of the panel 36 can be slid along
the rails
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CA 02493736 2005-O1-21
30, 32 to assemble or disassemble the fencing system 20. Thus, the retainer
210 and
panel 36 can be rapidly coupled to the rails 30, 32 without the use of tools
or threaded
fasteners which require additional labor to install and remove.
[0081] Further, retainers 210 can be conveniently added or removed to
fencing system 20. For example, the retainers 210 and the panel 36 can be
slidably
removed from the rails 30, 32, and then the retainers 210 can be added or
removed
form the panel 36. The retainers 210 and the panel 36 can then be re-inserted
and slid
along the rails 30, 32 to couple the panel 36 to the rails 30, 32.
[0082] With reference to FIGURE 7 and FIGURE 8, the retainer 210 can
include walls 220, 222, 224, an angled body 228, and a slot 230. In the
illustrated
embodiment, the walls 220, 222, 224 are substantially parallel and the
retainer 210 has
a generally M-shaped cross-section.
[0083] The wall 220 includes an outer surface 226 and edge 130. The
bottom portion of the wall 220 is connected to the angle body 228 and contacts
the
bottom 86 of the rail 32, when the retainer 210 is within the rail 32. The
wall 220 is
configured and sized to fit within a portion of the channel 112. In one
embodiment,
the wall 220 is disposed within the lower channel 102 so that the outer
surface 226 of
the wall 220 can slide along the surface 103 of channel 102. The wall 220 is
between
the sides of the channel 102 which inhibits vertical movement of the retainer
210.
[0084] The wall 222 includes an outer surface 229 and edge 236. The
bottom portion of the wall 222 is connected to the angle body 228 and contacts
the
bottom 86, when the retainer 210 is within the rail 32. The wall 222 is
configured and
sized to fit within the channel 112. In one embodiment, the wall 222 is
disposed
within the lower channel 102 of the channel 112 so that the outer surface 229
of the
wall 220 can slide along the surface 103 of channel 102. The wall 222 is
between the
sides of the channel 102 which inhibits vertical movement of the retainer 210,
Thus,
the walls 222, 226 both can be slidably disposed within the channel 102.
[0085] The wall 224 includes an outer surface 243 and the edge 244. The
bottom portion of the wall 224 is connected to the angled body 228 and can
contact
the bottom 86. The wall 224 is configured and sized to fit within the lower
channel
108 so that the outer surface 243 can slide along the surface 109 of the
channel 108.
The channel 108 limits the vertical movement of the retainer 210. The edges
230,
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CA 02493736 2005-O1-21
236, 244 can engage with the lower channels 102, 108 to prevent movement of
the
panel 36 away from the bottom 86 of the rail 32. The bottom 86 prevents
movement
of the wire 214 away from the retainer 210. Thus, the wire 214 is captured
between
the retainer 210 and the bottom 86. In one embodiment, the retainer 210 holds
the
wire 214 against the bottom 86.
[0086] The surfaces 103, 109 of the rail 32 limit the lateral movement of
the retainer 210. The retainer 210 and the bottom 86 can be spaced apart to
allow for
limited vertical and lateral movement of the wire 214.
[0087] With reference to FIGURES 8 and 9, the slot 230 can include a
curved end 232 and a pair of edges 234, 236. The slot 230 is between the walls
220,
222 and extends from one side of the retainer 210 to a central portion of the
retainer
210.
[0088] The curved end 232 is located in one side 240 of the angled body
228. The edge 234 extends from the curved end 232 to one side of the wall 220
and
the edge 236 extends from the curved end 232 to one side of the wall 222.
Thus, the
slot 230 extends from walls 220, 222 through a side 242 and into the side 240
of the
angled body 228.
[0089] The edges 234, 236 can be spaced apart so that the vertical wire
144 can be passed into and along the slot 230. In one embodiment, the edges
234, 236
are substantially parallel so that the vertical wire 144 can be passed between
the walls
220, 222 and along the slot 230 to a position near the curved end 232, as
shown in
FIGURE 9. Thus, the distance between the edges 236, 234 should be greater than
the
diameter of the vertical wires 144. In one non-limiting exemplary embodiment,
the
vertical wires have a diameter of 0.225 inches and the edges 236, 234 are
separated by
a distance greater than 0.225 inches.
[0090] The angled body 228 has the pair of sides 240, 242, which are
connected and form an angle a. As shown in FIGURE 7, the angled body 228
captures the horizontal wire 214 between the bottom 86 and the sides 240, 242.
T'he
sides 240, 242 can contact the wire 214 to inhibit vertical and lateral
movement the
panel 36.
[0091] A further advantage is provided where the angle a can be varied
depending on the diameter of the wire 214. For example, the angle a can be
increased
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CA 02493736 2005-O1-21
to accommodate the wire 214 with a small diameter. One of ordinary skill in
art can
determine the appropriate configuration of retainer 210 to capture the wire
214 in the
rail 32.
[0092] The pair of sides 242 of the body 228 connects the walls 220, 222
to the side 240. In the illustrated embodiment, the pair of sides 242 are
generally
rectangular and coplanar and are located on either side of the slot 230.
[0093] The side 240 is connected to the pair of sides 242 and the wall 224.
One side of the side 240 is connected to the pair of sides 242 and defines the
curved
end 232 of the slot 230. The other side of the side 240 is coupled to wall
224.
[0094] As described above, the sides 242, 240 of the angled body 228 are
on either side of the wire 214 and inhibit the movement of the wire 214. The
curved
end 232 can surround and contact the wire 140 (see FIGURE 9) to prevent
movement
of the wire 140 in the lateral direction. Thus, the movement of the panel 36
towards
either wall 104 or wall 110 of the rail 32 is inhibited by the sides 242, 240
which
engage and contact the wire 214.
[0095] The retainer 210 can be made of material suitable for sliding along
the rails. Preferably, the material has sufficient strength to inhibit the
movement of
the panel 36. In one non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the retainer 210 can
withstand a force of greater than 200 lbs. The retainer 210, for example, can
be made
out of metal, plastic, or the like. In one embodiment, the retainer 210 is
made of sheet
metal steel that is bent into shape. In one non-limiting exemplary embodiment,
the
retainer 210 holds the panel 36 in the rail when a 299 lbs. pulling force is
applied to
the panel 36.
[0096] FIGURE 10 illustrates a portion of the panel 36 and the retainer
210 within the rail 32. The panel 36 and the retainer 210 can be slid along
the rail 32
in the direction of the arrows. The retainer 210 is slidably disposed in the
rail 32 and
can move along the rail 32 as the panel 36 moves. As the panel 36 moves along
the
rail 32, the side of the vertical wire 144 contacts either the edge 134 or the
edge 136
and pushes the retainer 210 along the lower channels 102, 108. The vertical
wire 144
extends from and can slide along the opening 96 as the retainer 210 and panel
36 slide
along the rail 32.
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CA 02493736 2005-O1-21
[0097] With reference to FIGURE 11, a fencing system 300 has the post
assemblies 24, 26, rails 30, 32 and a panel 302. The panel 302 comprises a
plurality
of wires 304 and a plurality of pairs of vertically spaced horizontal wires
305. The
distance between the vertical wires 304 of the panel 302 is less than the
distance
between the wires 144 of panel 36 shown in FIGURE 4.
[0098] A further advantage is provided where the panel 302 can be
installed in the rails 30, 32 in a similar manner as panel 36. Further, the
same number
of retainers 210 can be used to assemble the panel 36 or the panel 302 and the
rails 30,
32. For example, one retainer 210 can be disposed within rail 32 midway
between the
post assemblies 24, 26 of the FIGURE 1 and FIGURE 11.
[0099] In a preferred embodiment, a plurality of retainers 210a, 210b, 210c
can be used to secure the panel 36 to the rails 30, 32, as shown in FIGURE 1.
The
retainers 210a, 210b, 210c can be similar or identical to the retainer 210.
The retainer
210a surrounds the vertical wire 158 and holds the wire 214 in the rail 32.
The
retainer 210b holds surrounds a vertical wire midway between the wires 156,
158 and
holds the wire 214 in the rail 32. The retainer 210c surrounds the vertical
wire 156
and holds the wire 214 in the rail 32. The retainers 210a, 210b, 210c inhibit
movement of the panel 36 and allow the panel 36 to move in the horizontal
direction
along the rail 32. Those skilled in the art recognize that different numbers
of retainers
210 can be used and located at various locations along the panel 36 and the
rails 30,
32.
[0100] As discussed above, the retainer 210 allows for convenient
assembly of the fencing system 20. The panel 36 and the retainer 210 can be
easily
slid into the rails. To attach the panel 36 to the rail 32, the retainer 210
can be
attached to the lower portion 153 of the panel 36 and placed into the channels
102,
108 at the end of the rail 32, as shown in FIGURE 7.
[0101] The retainer 210 and the panel 36 are slidably engaged in the rail
32 and can move along the rail 32, as shown in FIGURE 10. As the panel 36
moves
along the rail 32, the side of the vertical wire 144 contacts either the edge
134 or the
edge 136 and pushes the retainer 210 along the lower channels 102, 108. The
vertical
wire 144 and the retainer Z10 move together and the retainer 210 captures the
wire
214 which can slide along the bottom 86. Thus, the panels 36 can be rapidly
and
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CA 02493736 2005-O1-21
conveniently slid into the rail 32 and the panel 36 cannot be moved out of the
rail 32
because the retainer 210 holds the wire 214 within the rail 32. The panel 36
can be
attached to the rail 30 in a similar manner.
[0102] In yet another embodiment, the panel 36 is disposed in the rails 30,
32 without the use of the retainer 210. The portions 151, 153 of the panel 36
can be
inserted into the channel 94. The sides 80, 82 of the rail 32 limit the
movement of the
panel 36 in the lateral or transverse directions. An advantage is provided
where the
panel 36 can be rapidly inserted into and removed from the rails 30, 32.
(0103] With reference to FIGURE lA and FIGURE 12, there are various
configurations of the fencing system 20. For example, as shown in FIGURE lA,
the
longitudinal axis of rails 30, 30' are generally coaxial and the longitudinal
axis of the
rails 32, 32' are generally coaxial, such that the panels 36, 36' are
coplanar. With
reference to FIGURE 12, the fencing system 20 has sections 22, 22' that are
vertically
offset to accommodate angled ground 38.
[0104] The sections 22, 22' can be within a plane or can be at an angle to
each other. For example, the post assembly 24 can be the corner post so that
the
panels 36, 36' are generally perpendicular to each other.
[0105] In operation, to assemble the fencing system 20, the post
assemblies 24, 26 can be spaced apart and driven or placed into the ground.
The
brackets 48, 50, 52 can be slid onto the post 24. The brackets 200, 202, and
124 can
be slid onto the post 26. The end caps 140 can be placed on the top of the
post
assemblies 24, 26.
[0106] Retainers 210 can be used to secure the upper portion 151 to the
rail 30 and/or the lower portion 153 to the rail 32. The retainer 210 is
attached to the
panel 36 by passing a portion of the vertical wire 144 , which is between
either the
pair of wires 150 or 152, into the slot 320. The retainer 210 is slide into
the channel
112, and the panel 36 is disposed within the channel 94 and passes through the
opening 96. Additional retainers 210 can be attached to the panel 36 as the
panel 36 is
slid into the rail.
[0107] The rails 30, 32, which are slidably attached to the panel 36 are
coupled to the post assemblies 24, 26, as shown in FIGURE 1. The rail 30 is
attached
to the brackets 48, 200, and the rail 32 is attached to the brackets 52, 124.
The
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CA 02493736 2005-O1-21
brackets 48, 200, 52, 124 hold the rails 30, 32, which in turn surround and
limit
movement of the panel 36.
(0108] A further advantage is provided where the brackets 50, 202 can
inhibit movement of the panel 36. The brackets 50, 202 can surround and hold
the
vertical wires 158, 156, respectively. For example, the brackets 50, 202 can
prevent
bowing of the panel 36 away from the posts 24, 26, respectively.
[0109] The disassembly of the fencing system 20 is also further simplified
with the use of the retainers 210. For example, the fencing system 20 can be
disassembled by removing the fasteners from the brackets 48, 200 and brackets
52,
124 holding the rails 30, 32, respectively. The rails 30, 32 and panel 36 can
be
removed from the post assemblies 24, 26. The rails 30, 32 can be removed from
the
panel 36 by sliding the rails 30, 32 relative to the panel 36. The retainer
210 and
panel 36 can slide together along and out one end of the rails 30, 32. Because
the
fencing system ZO can be conveniently assembled and dissembled, the rails,
panels,
retainers, fasteners, and brackets can be easily replaced.
[0110] The steps for assembling and disassembling the fencing system 20
can be performed in various orders and can be modified. The steps, for
example, can
be performed simultaneously or independently. In one preferred method of
assembly,
the panel 36 and a first retainer 210 and second retainer 210 are
simultaneously slid
into both the rails 30, 32, respectively. In another method of assembly, the
panel 36
and retainers 210 are slid into the rail 30 and then the panel 36 and another
retainers
210 are slid into the rail 32.
[0111] A further advantage is provided where the panel 36 and retainers
210 can slide relative to the rails 30, 32 after the fencing system 20 is
assembled. The
panel 36 and retainers 210 can slide until the panel 36 and/or the retainer
210 contacts
the post assemblies 24, 26. This movement provides flexibility to the fencing
system
20 so that the system 20 can move without breaking. For example, this
flexibility can
prevent the breaking of the fencing system 20 during an earthquake.
(0112] As discussed above, a plurality of retainers 210 can be used to
couple the lower portion 153 and/or the upper portion 151 to the rails 32, 30,
respectively. For example, each of the vertical wires 144 can be surrounded by
the
retainer 210 or several of the vertical wires 144 can be surrounded by
retainers 210
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CA 02493736 2005-O1-21
which are within the rails 3(1 or 32. The retainers 210 ensure that the panel
36 is
slidably engaged with the rails 30, 32, thereby allowing for convenient
assembly.
[0113] The fencing system 20 can be coated with materials such as paint,
plastic, or the like, for example, to inhibit corrosion of the system 20. In
one
embodiment, the fencing system 20 is coated with colored polyester. Some or
all of
the components of the fencing system 20 can be galvanized to further inhibit
corrosion. Of course, the galvanized components can be coated with materials,
such
as polyester.
[0114] While particular forms of the invention have been described, it will
be apparent that various modifications can be made without departing from the
spirit
and scope of the invention. Accordingly, it is not intended that the invention
be
limited, except as by the appended claims.
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