Panel Patents (Class 256/24)
  • Publication number: 20080279634
    Abstract: The invention provides a gabion which may be used to protect military or civilian installations from weapons assault or from elemental forces, such as flood waters, lava flows, avalanches, soil instability, slope erosion and the like, the gabion comprising side walls connected together at spaced intervals by partition walls, the side walls comprising at least one substantially closed side wall element panel, which acts in use of the gabion to prevent a gabion fill material from falling through the side wall, the said action of the substantially closed side wall element panel being effective without the aid of a gabion lining material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2006
    Publication date: November 13, 2008
    Inventor: James Heselden
  • Publication number: 20080265228
    Abstract: A palisade or fence comprises vertical pales (9), rails (7,8) parallel with the ground surface and posts (6) set in the ground, each stretch between posts constituting a panel. The palisade is assembled without welding any part and follows the ground contour by means of its panels adjusting in pivoting fashion from rectangular shapes to parallelogram shapes at inclines or declines. This is facilitated by the pales pivoting on singular pivot formations in apertures in the rails that have clearances or tapers and the rails having pivotal or hinged connection to the posts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2004
    Publication date: October 30, 2008
    Inventor: Adriaan Jacobus Bosman
  • Publication number: 20080251656
    Abstract: A support system comprises a first component, a second component to be secured to the first component and to be supported, at least in part, thereby in use, and a coupling arrangement for securing the first and second components to one another, the coupling arrangement comprising a lock member secured to one of the first and second components by a crank, and a socket provided on the other of the first and second components and adapted to receive part of the lock member, wherein the lock member and the socket are designed such that the lock member can only be inserted into or removed from the socket when tilted or angled relative thereto.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2008
    Publication date: October 16, 2008
    Applicant: Primac Limited
    Inventor: Ian James Prismall
  • Patent number: 7434790
    Abstract: A glass rail design in which the glass infill panels extend vertically beyond the top rail. To achieve this, a new vertical post system has to be created. These vertical posts hold the glass panels in front of the posts. To do this, each post has an extruded form extending forward of the post. The glass panels fit into the extruded form. The top rail is attached to the top of the posts and then runs behind the glass panels. The tops of the panels are covered with a protective cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2008
    Inventor: Tracy C. Hansen
  • Publication number: 20080246013
    Abstract: A fence module includes a frame, multiple panels and multiple fasteners. The frame has multiple posts and multiple rails mounted at intervals on the posts. The panels are mounted on the frame between adjacent rails. The fasteners are mounted between the panels and the rails to attach the panels to the rails.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2006
    Publication date: October 9, 2008
    Applicant: PRODUCTIVITY ARCHITECT CO., LTD
    Inventor: Jung-Ya Hsieh
  • Publication number: 20080217598
    Abstract: A fence assembly is made up of a plurality of fence sections. Each section is made up of panels with top, bottom and side edges and front and rear surfaces. Slots are spaced from and milled into the panels along one of the sets of edges. A pair of trim extends over and covers the set edges and each trim has projections that snap or slide into the front and rear slots. Alternatively the edges of the panel may be beaded and slid over the slotted side of the trim. The fence sections are coupled pivotably to fence posts such that the panels may pivot, under force of wind, about either their top or bottom end. The panels are restored to generally vertical position by the force of gravity. A counterweight within the fence post linked to the panels can be used to restore panels to their vertical position. In an alternate embodiment, the brackets coupling the panels to the fence posts may slide along the fence posts and the panels bow in response to high winds.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2008
    Publication date: September 11, 2008
    Inventor: Edward L. Dombroski
  • Patent number: 7419141
    Abstract: A solid barrier, sound partition and privacy fence system including a plurality of interconnected fence panels whose ends are adapted to fit to pre-existing fence posts. The ends of the fence panels include attachment structure for releasably securing adjacent fence panels to one another around an existing fence post. The privacy fence system provides for installing a privacy fence that reuses existing cement anchored fence posts. The attachment structure may comprise either an interlocking fastening device or a threaded fastening device. The privacy fence may also include an optional fence post cap that is attached to the top portion of the existing poles. Each fence panel is constructed of a lightweight, one piece, molded material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2008
    Inventor: Michael D. Wall
  • Publication number: 20080179577
    Abstract: A fence having at least two posts positioned in a spaced apart relationship to one another; a rail connected across the at least two posts, the rail having an interior defined by a periphery, the periphery having a pair of ends defining an opening into the interior, the ends being rolled into the interior; a panel having an edge portion, the edge portion positioned through the opening into the interior; and a lock member having a base and an opposing top side, a front end and a tail end, the top side forming a recess and having a tapered section sloping downward, relative to the base, from the recess to the front end, wherein the lock member is positioned in the opening with one of the ends disposed in the recess and the base positioned against the panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2007
    Publication date: July 31, 2008
    Applicant: Neusch Innovations, LP
    Inventor: William H. Neusch
  • Publication number: 20080172970
    Abstract: A system of columnar blocks and stacking blocks interlock with each other in the construction of a pilaster or column and a fence panel, respectively, for use in a fence. The columnar blocks are generally square and the stacking blocks are generally rectangular. The columnar block faces may contain one or more slots to give a column an appearance of a masonry joint. Blocks have at least one interlocking element that permits a positive connection between courses of the blocks when the interlocking element is received in an overlying block.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2008
    Publication date: July 24, 2008
    Applicant: KEYSTONE RETAINING WALL SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Robert A. MacDonald, William B. Dawson
  • Patent number: 7401576
    Abstract: The corral panel is a generally V-shaped body generally forming an isosceles triangle. A first pole, a second pole and at least one crossbar form the corral panel. The first and second poles are substantially equal in length. Each pole has a first end and a second end. The second end of each pole is joined together to define a vertex of the V-shaped body. The corral panel is used to create an oblique corral assembly by joining an inverted triangular corral panel between adjoining rectangular corral panels to form a round corral in which the corral panels slope obliquely outward relative to vertical.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Inventor: Ted W. Prescott
  • Publication number: 20080169455
    Abstract: A fence attachment system includes a fence post clamp, a first anchoring device and an adapter with a second anchoring device for standardized attachment of any type fence panels to any type fence posts, wherein the fence post clamp has for example a ring-shaped configuration and contractible via a straining screw such that the clamp fits a variety of different fence posts, wherein the first anchoring device are preferably elongated holes distributed across the circumference of the ring-shaped clamp for fastening the adapters; with specialized fence post clamps for gate joints or disposition of a gate lock stop integration of a fence gate is also realized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2008
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Applicant: Gust. Alberts GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: DIETRICH ALBERTS
  • Patent number: 7389573
    Abstract: The installation and removal of a portable but sturdy pool barrier fence uses the hardware installed for attaching a safety pool cover during the pool use season. Multiple rectangular panel frames support a mesh fabric. Each panel has a lower horizontal frame member with a series of slots accommodating the same fastener used to attach the pool cover coupling during the off-season. Sections of fencing panels are attached together using bi-fold hinges, which permit 360 degree rotation of one panel relative to an adjacent one. This allows storage of the barrier fence as a dense rectangular three dimensional unit by folding the panels upon each other accordion-like. Sections of fencing panels are joined together to form respective fence units to form the fence around the pool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Inventor: LeeAnn Pesta
  • Patent number: 7389975
    Abstract: An improved method and apparatus for fencing and other outdoor structures that allow the structure to be changed or adjusted to modify the function, use or appearance of the structure. The structure can be adjusted into a selected position and releasably secured, or portions can be changed to modify the appearance of the structure. One aspect of the invention provides an accessible compartment in the structure to retain objects such as wires or other conduits, and allows for attaching selected objects to the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Assignee: On the Fence Technologies, LLC Corporation
    Inventors: Michael Rowley, David Kurth
  • Patent number: 7384024
    Abstract: A reusable fence post for supporting roll-up safety fencing comprising an elongated hollow post having an outside V-angle disposed along a first exterior side of the hollow post; a stake extending downward from a built-in sliding hammer for installing the reusable fence post in the ground without tools; and an elongated jaw member having an inside V-angle hinged at the lower end of the hollow post. The elongated jaw member swings away from the hollow post to receive the plastic fencing and swings toward the hollow post to be latched to the hollow post and held between inside and outside V-angle clamping surfaces, thereby securely clamping the safety fencing to prevent it from slipping either lengthwise or across the width of the fencing. In an alternate embodiment, the outside V-angle serves as the fence post; and the stake, having a cap at its upper end, slides within pipe sections attached to the post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2008
    Inventor: Dwayne Wink
  • Patent number: 7377490
    Abstract: A fence assembly includes anchor brackets mountable to a first support wall. An anchor post is conjoined to the anchor brackets, has opposed top and bottom ends and is formed from rigid and non-corrosive material. Couplings are conjoined to the anchor post, are detachable therefrom and positional along a length thereof. A cylindrical housing defines a cavity therein, is provided with a slot and is formed from rigid and non-corrosive material. A screen passes through the slot, is formed from transparent material and can be adapted along at least a 180 degree arcuate path when extended. A rectilinear auxiliary post is permanently attached to a distal screen end, travels along an entire length thereof and is situated to an exterior of the housing. Latching brackets are connected to the auxiliary post and are engageable to a second support wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2008
    Inventor: Bahman Khosravian
  • Publication number: 20080116436
    Abstract: The flexible composite structure includes a first composite board and a second composite board. The first composite board is folded internally from both sides, forming two opposite coupling joints. The second composite board, being half of the height of the first composite board, is folded internally from upper side, forming a coupling joint. By joining the coupling joints of the first composite board and the second composite board, both composite boards are fabricated into various fence structures with different sizes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2006
    Publication date: May 22, 2008
    Applicant: CHING-CHING TRADING Co.
    Inventor: Sun CHUN-HSIA
  • Patent number: 7350772
    Abstract: A foldable foam-based divider device includes a plurality of panels, each panel including a middle foam plate and front and back semi-rigid paper plates mounted on and sandwiching the middle foam plate, the middle foam plate further including at least one outwardly extending connecting tab and at least one tab-receiving recess with adjacent ones of the plurality of panels connected to one another in accordion-like fashion with the connecting tab extending into the tab-receiving recess and being secured therein by connection of the front and back semi-rigid paper plates to the connecting tab. The plurality of panels is movable between a closed position with the plurality of panels forming a folded stack of generally parallel panels and an opened position wherein the plurality of panels forms an extended wall operative to selectively divide an area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2008
    Inventor: Christian Legrand
  • Publication number: 20080061279
    Abstract: A connector for constructing a fence including a body and ears. The body terminates in ends and forms a passage that can receive a post. Each ear is formed with one of the ends and includes both inner and outer apertures. The inner apertures are interposed between the body and the outer aperture. The ears are spaced apart from each other. The inner apertures and the outer apertures are generally aligned with each other, respectively. The outer apertures and a rail aperture receive a threaded bolt to support a rail and the inner apertures receive another bolt which, when rotated into a nut, draws the first and second ends toward each other, reduces a dimension of the passage, and clamps the body to the post.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2007
    Publication date: March 13, 2008
    Inventor: Michael Dean Sullivan
  • Publication number: 20080061278
    Abstract: A major object of this invention is the use of a heavy net with an optimally sized mesh that provides an easy gripping surface for a toddler hands with no choking or entrapment hazards. A further object of this invention is to provide a method of providing tension securement to a carpeted surface by the use of deep-machined hook surfaces. Another object of this invention is to teach the use of fastening a net to an existing banister by the use of hook and loop fasteners. Another object of this invention is to teach the manufacture of a carpeted stair gripper, which allows objects to be attached, and custom fitted, to the edges of carpeted stair steps with great strength and with no tools or defacement of the stairs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2006
    Publication date: March 13, 2008
    Inventors: Lori C. Kroll, Mark W. Kroll
  • Publication number: 20080054241
    Abstract: An improved safety fence for constructing a flexible workcell is provided with a fence end having at least one T-shaped post including a plurality of elongated support pins mounted along a first flange on the post and at least one cam lock mounted along a second perpendicular flange on the post for securing a panel member to the fence end. The fence can be quickly and easily assembled and disassembled, such that the workcell is portable and extremely flexible. The adjoining edges of the panel members are secured and sealed together using an H-shaped extrusion member. The fence includes stiffening ribs between posts to mount part bins and receive cabling, wiring, and tubing for work functions within the workcell.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2006
    Publication date: March 6, 2008
    Inventor: Jan Christian Mangelsen
  • Patent number: 7334778
    Abstract: A unitary stackable fence module having end assemblies and span members is provided for forming a perimeter fence having an inwardly inclined profile. A right angle end support has vertical and horizontal members and an angle arm, spaced from and attached to a side edge of the vertical and horizontal members adjacent the span members. The unique arrangement permits a plurality of fence modules to be stacked for transport or storage. Loops formed on the vertical members permit pivotal pinning of fence modules together to form perimeter fences of any polygonal shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2008
    Assignee: 747379 Alberta Ltd.
    Inventor: Michael J. Alberts
  • Publication number: 20080006807
    Abstract: A barrier system located between an access area such as a road and an adjoining hazard has barrier elements mounted on posts secured to inwardly directed, buried and anchored beam members, which extend below the surface of the access area. The posts may be cantilevered from the beams, with bracing means connecting the system members. The post, beam and its anchor members may be pivotally linked, so as to be foldable. The beam anchor may be a cable connected beneath the road to an oppositely located beam and post. The posts can project below the beam support means, and can have stabilizing blades near their lower ends. Posts can be made withdrawable, and can be cross-braced to adjacent posts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2006
    Publication date: January 10, 2008
    Inventor: Ronald Coffey
  • Patent number: 7314212
    Abstract: A deformation and weather resistant, noise attenuating fencing assembly comprises a series of hollow posts, each post formed of a fiberglass reinforced resin, having spaced apart load bearing walls defining an exterior surface, an interior surface, a first open end and a second open end. The structure-reinforcing cap is inserted within a first open end of each of the posts and frictionally engages the interior surface of the post to substantially prevent movement of the exterior surface thereof when various types of appurtenant structures are mounted thereon, which would otherwise cause deformation and possible structural failure of the post walls. First and second clips are inserted into the first and second open ends of the post, respectively, to provide an easy mechanism to properly space and secure the posts together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2008
    Inventor: William Ray Higgins
  • Publication number: 20070215850
    Abstract: A fence system for following the contour of a surface is provided. The system includes a plurality of generally cylindrically shaped slats each having at least one groove and at least one protrusion. The protrusions of each slat is insertable into the grooves of adjacent slats. The slats are movable upwardly and downwardly relative to one another to follow the contour of a surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2007
    Publication date: September 20, 2007
    Inventor: Maxwell R. Mitchell
  • Patent number: 7258913
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a consolidated form of the commingled continuous filaments of glass fibers and polymeric fibers as reinforcement. The consolidation of the commingled fibers into composite reinforcement can be used in a continuous form or bulk molding compound pellets. The consolidation of the commingled fibers into composite reinforcement can be made in-situ during in-line extrusion of the final end product extrudate, or prepared as a tape or rod and incorporated into an off-line extrusion of final product. The bulk molding pellets are used solely or diluted with an addition of polymeric material for mono or co-extrusion or compression molding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2007
    Assignee: CertainTeed Corp.
    Inventors: Byeong H. Jo, John B. Peavey
  • Patent number: 7240637
    Abstract: A fence-covering system for covering the openings in fence structures, such as an animal corral or arena. According to one aspect, a fence-covering system includes one or more removable fence-covering members that snap-fit onto the existing rails of a fence. Each fence-covering member can include an upper rail-engaging end portion that engages a horizontal rail of the fence, a lower rail-engaging end portion that engages another horizontal rail of the fence, and a generally flat panel member that covers the openings between the rails. According to another aspect, a fence-covering system comprises a sheet of a strong, flexible material, such as a fabric or fabric-like material, that is wrapped around the rails of a fence.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2007
    Inventor: John B. Rosen
  • Patent number: 7237766
    Abstract: Retaining device for use with two elongated slats longitudinally located in a chain linked fence. Each slat has first and second slat surfaces and first and second slat edges, and has a notch located in a portion of a slat end. The notch extends transversally from the first to the second slat edge. The device includes a cap having a first panel connected to an intermediate panel. A guide rail connects to the first panel. The guide rail has first and second spaced apart longitudinal stop ends located inwardly away from respective first and second panel side edges for cooperation with notches of respective slats. The guide rail is slidably and longitudinally engageable by the notches in generally opposed directions along restricted paths of travel from one of the stop ends toward the other one of the stop ends to retain the notches thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignees: General Plastiques Extrusion
    Inventor: Gerald Lemay
  • Patent number: 7216853
    Abstract: A solid barrier, sound partition and privacy fence system including a plurality of interconnected fence panels whose ends are adapted to fit to pre-existing fence posts. The ends of the fence panels include attachment structure for releasably securing adjacent fence panels to one another around an existing fence post. The privacy fence system provides for installing a privacy fence that reuses existing cement anchored fence posts. The attachment structure may comprise either an interlocking fastening device or a threaded fastening device. The privacy fence may also include an optional fence post cap that is attached to the top portion of the existing poles. Each fence panel is constructed of a lightweight, one piece, molded material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2007
    Inventor: Michael D. Wall
  • Patent number: 7207551
    Abstract: A privacy panel system for ornamental fences that include a plurality of panel members that are dimensioned to fit within adjacent pickets of the ornamental fence to close off and provide privacy between the pickets. Each panel member comprises a central section with offset attachment wings, the latter of which are affixed to the back planar face of the parallel fence pickets. The central section is offset to extend within and between adjacent pickets, but offset from the front face thereof. To provide privacy between a picket and a post, such as an end post, an elongated trim piece is provided having a first edge defining a slot with a slot gap substantially equal to the thickness of the privacy panel to enable a free edge of a central section of the privacy panel to be tightly retained within the slot. The free edge of the privacy panel is formed by cutting the central section vertically to provide a free end, which is rigidly and securely retained within the slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Filtrona Extrusion USA, Inc.
    Inventors: Terry William Fielden, Michael Douglas Clayson
  • Patent number: 7178789
    Abstract: The apparatus is a fixture for mounting wire fence on posts. The apparatus is a channel formed with slots across the web of the channel and the slots angled into the channel walls to form finger like tabs. Holes in lengthwise flanges on the channel sides or holes in the web permit mounting the fixture on a post using screws. The channel can be constructed in long or relatively short sections. The hanging fixture can be used at the top and bottom of the wire fence with the angles of the slots reversed, so that the wire fence can be trapped between them after simple installation by merely bending the wires to fit them into the slots.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2007
    Inventor: Ryan P. Lehmann
  • Patent number: 7168688
    Abstract: A fence section has upper and lower brackets that mount to one side of a post. Each bracket has a pair of rail mounting plates extending from opposite side edges of a post mounting plate. Upper and lower rails extend between the upper and lower mounting brackets. Each of the rails has a pair of sidewalls and an offset skirt extending from a base section, defining an elongated slot. The rails have ends that slide over and receive the rail mounting plates of the brackets. A panel has upper and lower edges that fit in the slot of the upper and lower rails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2007
    Assignee: The Burly Corporation
    Inventor: David R. Davenport
  • Patent number: 7121529
    Abstract: A fence panel that includes a self-contained connector system which can be used to interconnect, in assembling an animal enclosure, up to four of the panels quickly and easily without the need for additional posts, connectors, or other apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Assignee: Priefert Mfg. Co., Inc.
    Inventor: William Dean Priefert
  • Patent number: 7114706
    Abstract: A frame for bracing a gate includes a first and second upright brace having respective outboard edges positioned flush to opposite vertical edges of the gate. First upper and lower cross braces have respective opposite ends received within upper and lower ends of the first and second upright braces. Second upper and lower cross braces respectively have opposite ends abutting upper and lower ends of the first and second upright braces. First and second upper mounting members respectively have outboard ends abutting upper ends of the first and second upright brace member and inboard ends secured to the first and second upper cross braces. First and second lower mounting members respectively have bases abutting lower ends of the first and second upright braces and inboard ends secured to the first and second bottom cross braces. The structure enables mounting of a gate on a non-level surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Assignee: Alumi-Guard, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeff Bemis, William Woodard, Dan Perry
  • Patent number: 7111828
    Abstract: An outdoor screen fence is made up of a series of molded panels with simulated paneling and lattice in relief bounded on each lateral side by a leg. Each leg has a plurality of brackets along the length thereof. The brackets on one leg are disposed intermediate the brackets on the other leg. Each of the brackets has an aperture therethrough for receiving a tubular fence post. In assembly, the brackets of different panels are aligned in an interspersed relationship and a fence post with a removable impact cap is inserted through the apertures and driven into a support surface such that each leg is supported by at least two brackets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2006
    Assignee: Suncast Corporation
    Inventors: Lyle A. Rosine, Torrence Anderson, Robert Kopp
  • Patent number: 7090201
    Abstract: A fencing system is provided that is constructed from durable polymer components that are sufficiently rigid and durable while providing an integrated modular assembly that is easy to assembly and well suited to a do-it-yourself marketplace. In particular, the modular fence is an integrated system of interfitting vinyl components and a unique polycarbonate or ABS clip for interconnection thereof. The fence includes vertical posts with horizontal members extending therebetween. The horizontal members include grooves therein to support fence panels in the form of web panels. The horizontal members are connected to the vertical members utilizing a novel and uniquely configured connector element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Assignee: Simplicity Products, LLC
    Inventor: John J. Brucker
  • Patent number: 7086642
    Abstract: A rackable gate having a gate panel with spaced-apart rails connected to a plurality of first pickets and a second picket. The second picket attaches to the respective rails on a side edge opposing the attachment of the first pickets to the rail. Distal opposing ends of the rails are received and pivotally secured in openings defined in opposing gate posts. The gate racks or moves so that the rails are disposed at an oblique angle relative to the pickets. The opposing fastening of the second picket and the opposing distal end of the rail received in the post restrict the rail from pivoting away from the pickets when the panel is racked to track the contour of the terrain. A method of making a rackable gate is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Assignee: XFM, Inc.
    Inventor: James R. O'Brien
  • Patent number: 7055807
    Abstract: An expandable socket holds a fence pole for a flexible swimming pool fence. The socket, being generally cylindrical, but slightly tapered, is open at a top end and has a bottom end partially closed with a rectangular opening. The socket sits within a bore within a concrete swimming pool deck or within a cylindrical sleeve adapted to be imbedded in a hole in earth. The lower end of the fence pole has a shaft, with a locking plate mounted thereon. The locking plate fits through the opening in the socket and is twisted to lock the pole in place within the socket. The socket has one or more lengthwise expansion ribs extending from a sidewall. Each rib is capable of limited pivotal outwardly and inwardly movement and has an increased taper at the distal end. When the fence pole is inserted into the socket, each rib is forced outwardly to engage an inner surface of the cylindrical sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Assignee: Pool Cover Corporation
    Inventor: LeeAnn Pesta
  • Patent number: 7055806
    Abstract: A rail barricade includes a bottom rail and a U-shaped body frame having a top rail and a pair of vertical rails. A plurality of vertical spokes are located between the vertical rails. The bottom rail further includes an opposing pair of curved ends each having a projection that is received in a notch in one of the vertical rails. The connection is then welded. A foot is pivotally attached to each of the vertical rails. Hooks are attached to one of the vertical rails for attachment of a second rail barricade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Assignee: Stageright Corporation
    Inventors: John S. York, Jr., Timothy J. Hockemeyer
  • Patent number: 7044449
    Abstract: A reusable fence post for supporting roll-up safety fencing comprises an elongated hollow post having an outside V-angle disposed along a first exterior side of the hollow post; a stake extending downward from a built-in sliding hammer for installing the reusable fence post in the ground without tools; and an elongated jaw member having an inside V-angle hinged at the lower end of the hollow post. The elongated jaw member swings away from the hollow post to receive the plastic fencing and swings toward the hollow post to be latched to the hollow post and held between inside and outside V-angle clamping surfaces, thereby securely clamping the safety fencing to prevent it from slipping either lengthwise or across the width of the fencing. In an alternate embodiment, the outside V-angle serves as the fence post; and the stake, having a cap at its upper end, slides within pipe sections attached to the post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Inventor: Dwayne Wink
  • Patent number: 7040605
    Abstract: A configurable fence system has a solar panel on a mounting surface that can tilt in accordance with a closed loop control system. A solar system for a fence includes a support structure mounted along the top length of the fence, a first mounting surface extending from the supporting structure, a first solar panel on the first mounting surface, a second mounting surface extending from the supporting structure, a second solar panel on the second mounting surface, and a pair of adjustable arms for tilting the first and second mounting surfaces with respect to the fence for sunlight exposure. The pair of arms can be also coupled to a motor and a solar detection and feedback control system for motorized adjustment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Assignee: RMM Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Alan Rick Lappen
  • Patent number: 7036799
    Abstract: A structural glass panel railing includes glass panels supported on a floor by a base assembly including a railing support assembly. The railing support assembly includes a shoe fastened to the floor, a base member locked to the shoe by a cam lock lever and a channel member having a pocket receiving the panel. The base member may be attached directly to the floor. The channel member is received in a groove of the base member and is held by a wedge system. The wedge system can be formed by mating tapers on the channel member and the groove or by a wedge member inserted into the groove. A handrail assembly includes a handrail channel member receiving the top edge of the panel. The handrail channel member is received in a groove in a handrail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Inventor: John D. Shepherd
  • Patent number: 7036798
    Abstract: A mobile barrier for use in wind control, reduction of blowing litter and suspension and transport of airborne contaminants with applications in areas of landfill maintenance, agriculture, erosion control, and snow control is described. The mobile barrier is a large mesh panel supported in an orientation that is at a slight angle to the vertical. The panel is supported using a pair of upright members that extend upward from a base which is freestanding. A vertically adjustable lifting boom is also supported by the upright members, and is used to secure the mobile barrier to lifting machinery for purposes of transport. Further, a system for controlling the spread of wind-borne contaminants will be described which includes a mobile barrier in combination with a misting device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Inventor: Michael A. Olson
  • Patent number: 7032891
    Abstract: An improved method and apparatus for fencing and other outdoor structures that allow the structure to be changed or adjusted to modify the function, use or appearance of the structure. The structure can be adjusted into a selected position and releasably secured, or portions can be changed to modify the appearance of the structure. One aspect of the invention provides an accessible compartment in the structure to retain objects such as wires or other conduits, and allows for attaching selected objects to the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Assignee: On The Fence Technologies, LLC Corporation
    Inventors: Michael Rowley, David Kurth
  • Patent number: 7032888
    Abstract: A fence guard construction (10) for preventing the growth of vegetation in the vicinity of a fence line (100) wherein, the construction includes end cap members 20 40 and intermediate segments 30 30 each provided with a vertical mounting flange (60) and a horizontal mounting flange (50) and fabricated from hollow rectangular bodies (21) (41) and (31) that are adapted to be connected to one another, as well as, the ground and spaced fence posts (101) wherein, each of the bodies (21) (41) and (31) have external surfaces (24) (34) and (44) provided with a simulated brick appearance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Inventor: Robin A. Adair
  • Patent number: 7017320
    Abstract: A guardrail comprises two parallel metal tubes each having two lengthwise bent ends each having a fastening member, two inner abutment mechanisms each having a lengthwise abutment member and a mating fastening member at either end engaged with the fastening member for securing each metal tube and the corresponding abutment mechanism together, and a protective board having either end urged against the abutment member and the bent ends, thereby securing the protective board between the abutment mechanisms. Further, a number of variations are possible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Inventor: Yuan-Kuan Chen
  • Patent number: 6966547
    Abstract: A fence slat. The fence slat may include a longitudinal body. The longitudinal body may include a first side with a first sidewall positioned thereon and a second side with a second sidewall positioned thereon. The sidewalls may include a locking portion positioned thereon. The sidewalls may be curved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2005
    Assignee: The Loxcreen Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Alan C. Colliander
  • Patent number: 6964410
    Abstract: An ornamental guardrail system that has an improved base assembly, which allows water and debris to escape from the deck surface. The system uses a mounting arrangement that supports the glass panels above the surface of the deck without using full-height posts. This mounting arrangement makes a structural glass railing useful in many types of construction projects that require the surface water to sheet flow under the railing system, or to achieve a certain visual style.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2005
    Inventor: Tracy C. Hansen
  • Patent number: 6945518
    Abstract: A modular lawn clipping barrier includes a plurality of barrier sections that are removably coupled together. Each of a plurality of hinge members is attached to one of the plurality of barrier sections. Each of the hinge members comprises a first mating section and a second mating section. The first and second mating sections are attached to opposite ends of the barrier sections such that the first mating sections barrier sections may be aligned with the second mating sections of adjacently positioned barrier sections. Each of a plurality of rods is selectively extendable through a mated pair of the first and second mating sections such that mated pair are pivotally coupled together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Inventor: Todd D. Chrysler
  • Patent number: 6945517
    Abstract: In general, the present invention includes a fence cap for covering the openings between two sides of a fence at the top of the fence and/or the end of the fence. The fence cap includes a first recess adapted to receive a first component of a fence. This first recess is defined by a first wall, a second wall, and a third wall. The first wall and the third wall are substantially parallel one to another, and the first wall and the third wall are each substantially perpendicular to the second wall. The cap further includes a second recess adapted to receive a second component of the fence. This second recess is defined by a fourth wall, a fifth wall, and a sixth wall. The fourth wall and the sixth wall are each substantially parallel one to another, and the fourth wall and the sixth wall are each substantially perpendicular to the fifth wall. In the fence cap of the present invention, the third wall and the sixth wall are substantially parallel one to another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Inventor: James D. Augur
  • Patent number: 6913249
    Abstract: A fence which includes upper and lower horizontal rails with boards extending between the rails. The rails are formed into separable half parts which are connectable together about the boards. The half parts include opposing ribs which separate the boards.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2005
    Inventor: Jean-Michel Lerdu