Abstract: A gate closure device including a U-shaped support member which is slipped over the upper end of a fence post with the base portion thereof being pivotally and slidably secured to the fence post. An elongated shaft is rotatably secured to the outer ends of the legs of the first support member. A first rod is secured to one end of the first shaft and a second rod is fixed to the other end of the first shaft. First and second crank handles and locking devices are secured to the outer ends of the first and second rods respectively. A flexible loop has its ends fixed to the first shaft which is slipped over the free end of the fence gate. The crank handles are rotated to draw the free end of the fence gate towards the fence post.

Abstract: A portable support device for inserting into the ground and in one embodiment is useful for forming a temporary barricade, corridor or an enclosure arrangement for livestock. The support device has (a) a support frame having a first member, a second member and a cross-brace member rigidly connected to the first and second members and (b) a third member moveably mounted to the cross-brace member and having a free end with a means for securing the third member to the ground. In a preferred embodiment, the support device further includes (c) an angled member having a face portion and spaced-apart first and second ends attached to the first and second members, respectively. The face includes a wire reel or spool holding support means for hanging a reel or spool of wire fencing material of a predetermined length onto the support device.

Abstract: An insulated fence tensioner for use with a flexible polymer fence rail having at least one electrically conductive member has a metal barrel including a slot for receiving an end of the fence rail. An electrically non-conductive tubular liner is situated within the metal barrel, the liner including two edges defining a slot aligned with the metal barrel slot. An electrically non-conductive sleeve surrounds the metal barrel, the sleeve including two edges defining a slot aligned with the metal barrel slot. One set of the liner and sleeve edges are formed as a pair of folded edges positioned to penetrate the metal barrel slot and overlap the other set of the edges. An electrically non-conductive flange is positioned between the electrically conductive member of the flexible polymer fence rail and the metal mounting bracket of the fence tensioner.

Abstract: A barrier system is provided for fencing in or closing off a designated area. The barrier system includes a body including a longitudinal element extendable from the body to form a barrier between a first surface and a second surface. At least one coupling member is selectively connectable with the body between a first connection configuration such that the body is coupleable to the first surface or the second surface via the at least one coupling member and a second connection configuration such that the body is directly attachable to the first surface or the second surface. Systems and methods are disclosed.

Abstract: An in-line strainer for placement within a span of wire fence to apply tension thereto is provided. The in-line strainer includes a reel having a hollow central hub for receiving a torque limiting mechanism. The torque limiting mechanism includes a central axle and a spring mechanism. As the axle is manually rotated, the reel is also rotated through its engagement with the torque limiting mechanism until a target tension on the wire is reached. Once the target tension has been reached, the torque limiting mechanism disengages, allowing the axle to “slip” relative to the reel, preventing further rotation of the reel and, consequently, further tensioning of the wire. In addition, the in-line strainer includes a failure mechanism which ensures that, when the load threshold on the fence is exceeded, the in-line strainer will automatically release tension on the wire wound thereon in a predictable and safe manner.

Abstract: A method of deploying temporary fencing includes connecting a first end of spooled fencing wire to a first fencepost, and with the spool rotatably on a vehicle, driving the vehicle toward a second position along a perimeter of an area to be fenced in. During this travel, the rotating spool deploys fencing wire for suspension a distance above ground between the fencepost and the spool. The spool is then removed from the vehicle and mounted on a second fencepost at the second position, thereby suspending the deployed fencing wire between the fenceposts. By mounting the spool onto the second fencepost and leaving deployed fencing wire intact with the remaining spooled wire, time and effort is reduced in later retrieval of the fencing, as there is no need to later re-join a cut length of wire to the spool, or to any wire remaining thereon after the initial fence deployment.

Abstract: A tensioner for a fencing wire reel, which includes a tensioning member, and a housing for the tensioning member, wherein the housing and the tensioning member are configured such that when fencing wire passes through the housing in one direction, the tensioning member applies a first biasing force against the wire, and when fencing wire passes through the housing in the opposite direction, the tensioning member applies a second biasing force against the wire, the second biasing force being less than the first biasing force. A portable fence system for constructing a fence, which includes at least one fencing wire reel, and a reel housing for the at least one fencing wire reel, and includes the tensioner as described is also claimed.

Abstract: A fence tensioner has a frame which may be rigid or articulated. The tensioner carries on each end thereof a rotatable cylindrical member which is provided with an axial slot to accommodate the profile of a section of fence. The cylindrical member is provided a ratchet and a pawl to lock the cylinder against loosening rotation. The pawl has a square end to lock the ratchet and eliminate any backlash and any slack in the fence members. The frame of the device is articulated so that each end of the device may accommodate the angle of the fence relative to the post. The vinyl fencing fits into the tensioner and locks itself therein as the cylinder rotates.

Abstract: A webbing connector comprises first and second inter-engageable components (44, 46) and connecting means (58) co-operable with the components (44, 46) to secure the components (44, 46) to one another. The connecting means may comprise a connecting pin.

Abstract: A portable fencing system in a barricade or corridor arrangement utilizes at a minimum one each of a corner post fixture, and a fence wire. In an enclosure arrangement, the portable fencing system can utilize at least one winch corner fixture, a plurality of corner post fixtures, a plurality of spacer posts and a plurality of fence wires. Spacer posts are spaced from one another and from a winch corner fixture and corner post fixtures such that the winch corner fixture, corner post fixtures, spacer posts and fence wires all together can form any suitable arrangement in relation to one another to provide an enclosure barrier around an area or a barricade or corridor along a side of an area.

Abstract: An apparatus for demarcating an area for restricting the freedom of movement of animals that may be in the area for grazing purposes. The demarcation element, as such, may be a cord, band, ribbon, strip, cable, rope or electrified or communication wire which may be two parallel wires separated by a flexible insulating material. The demarcation element is supported by a plurality of vehicles although one or two ends of same may be secured at a reference point. The vehicle is supported by two relatively large wheels which are independently connected to motors and the center of gravity of vehicle is lower than the centers of the wheels which may be perpendicular to the ground or slanted inwardly. The vehicle carries solar panels which may be mounted on the wheels if they are slanted. A connection for the demarcation element is carried on each vehicle which may include a guide member and tightening device.

Abstract: A portable fencing system in a barricade or corridor arrangement utilizes at a minimum one each of a corner post fixture, and a fence wire. In an enclosure arrangement, the portable fencing system can utilize at least one winch corner fixture, a plurality of corner post fixtures, a plurality of spacer posts and a plurality of fence wires. Spacer posts are spaced from one another and from a winch corner fixture and corner post fixtures such that the winch corner fixture, corner post fixtures, spacer posts and fence wires all together can form any suitable arrangement in relation to one another to provide an enclosure barrier around an area or a barricade or corridor along a side of an area.

Abstract: A fence tensioner includes a bracket adapted to be secured to a fence post, the bracket having upper and lower horizontal plate portions with vertically aligned cylinder openings and vertically aligned locking pin reaction holes therein. A tensioning cylinder is received in the vertically aligned cylinder openings for rotation relative to the upper and lower horizontal plate portions, the tensioning cylinder having at least one slot extending along the cylinder for receiving a fence slat, and flanges at opposite ends thereof that retain the tensioning cylinder in the aligned cylinder openings. Each of the flanges has a circular array of selectively useable locking apertures therein. The upper flange is provided with a profiled opening for receiving a similarly profiled tool for rotating the cylinder. A locking pin is provided that is adapted to extend through the aligned locking pin reaction holes and through a selected pair of aligned locking apertures to lock the fence slat in the tensioned position.

Abstract: A belt post includes a post with a box on a top of the post and a reel of belt is received in the box. A spring box is engaged with the top of the box and the mandrel of the reel is engaged with the spring. A head assembly is connected to a distal end of the belt and includes a movable piece which is retractably received in a body with a spring biased therebetween. The head assembly is easily to be engaged between a top cap and a bottom cap of another box by pushing the movable piece to change the length the combination of the body and the movable piece.

Abstract: A fence dispensing apparatus for installing fencing wire along a line offence posts. The fence dispensing apparatus permits easy setup along with efficient and safe operation. In addition to dispensing wire, the apparatus stretches unrolled wire using a winch and a wire interface. The fence dispensing apparatus essentially comprises a base member that sits on an axle and wheels. Moreover, the base member connects to a motor vehicle via a hitch receiver or a three-point tractor hookup. As the vehicle travels along a fence line, the apparatus dispenses wire from a vertically aligned spindle and/or from a horizontally aligned roller. The spindle disconnects from the base member, permitting it to be easily loaded with wire and set up for operation. Additionally, a spindle lock and spindle support act in concert to safely hold the loaded spindle in position. Furthermore, a wear plate between the loaded spindle and the base member protects the base member from excessive wear during operation.

Abstract: A tensioner device for applying tension to a flexible fence slat includes a bracket assembly having attachment webs for attachment to a fence post and a pair of vertically spaced, horizontally oriented flanges. A tensioning cylinder is mounted for rotation within a pair of apertures provided, respectively, in the horizontally oriented flanges, the tensioning cylinder formed with a through-slot extending longitudinally between a pair of radial flanges. The through-slot has a length substantially equal to a width of the flexible fence slat and adapted to receive one end of the fence slat. A ratchet wheel is formed at one end of the cylinder, between one of the radial flanges and one of the horizontally oriented flanges, and a pawl is pivotably mounted on the adjacent one of the horizontally oriented flanges for engagement with the ratchet so as to permit rotation of the tensioning cylinder in a tensioning direction but to prevent rotation of the tensioning cylinder in an opposite direction.

Abstract: A method of deterring to waterfowl trespass onto a real estate property, particularly a property bordering onto a body of water inhabited by geese, and an effective barrier for doing so, is disclosed. The barrier consists in its simplest form as a pair of lines suspended above a property surface, one line at 3 to 10 inches high, a second line at 8 to 30 inches high, with a separation between lines of at least 5 inches. The lines are suspended by means of an array of posts. Preferably, a dispenser for feeding a line from a spool and also for retracting the line is mounted on one of the posts. The barrier is optimally removable, including means for retracting the line and for conveniently removing the posts from receptacles in the property surface. Thus, a property owner or user is allowed full recreational access to the property without the problem of goose droppings on the protected property.

Abstract: A tensioner device for applying tension to a flexible fence slat includes a bracket assembly having attachment webs for attachment to a fence post and a pair of vertically spaced, horizontally oriented flanges. A tensioning cylinder is mounted for rotation within a pair of apertures provided, respectively, in the horizontally oriented flanges, the tensioning cylinder formed with a through-slot extending longitudinally between a pair of radial flanges. The through-slot has a length substantially equal to a width of the flexible fence slat and adapted to receive one end of the fence slat. A ratchet wheel is formed at one end of the cylinder, between one of the radial flanges and one of the horizontally oriented flanges, and a pawl is pivotably mounted on the adjacent one of the horizontally oriented flanges for engagement with the ratchet so as to permit rotation of the tensioning cylinder in a tensioning direction but to prevent rotation of the tensioning cylinder in an opposite direction.

Abstract: A fence system tensioning apparatus for tensioning a section of fencing material extending between support fence posts. The tensioner is rotatable with a rotation tool such as a wrench without contacting the outer side walls of a generally cylindrical sleeve member. The sleeve may be rotated 360° about its rotational axis. A fencing material connection member on the sleeve receives and retains fencing material as the sleeve is rotated by turning rotational members and the material tensioned. A lock nut assembly is attached to the sleeve to prevent rotation of the sleeve after the material has been properly tensioned.

Abstract: A retainer bracket for mounting on a fence post and for tensioning and support of a strip of fencing material includes a plate which is attached to the fence post, first and second support arms projecting outwardly from the plate and a rotatable bolt having a slot therethrough for receipt of the fencing material mounted. The support arms include a cam which cooperates with the head of the bolt to hold the bolt in position after it has been rotated to tension the fencing material.

Abstract: A line dispenser for a retractable fence which includes a housing for holding a spool of line, the housing having a hole for communicating the line outside the housing; a crank for rotating the spool to bring the line into the housing through the hole; and a tube located within the hole. The line extends through the tube so that the tube applies a tension on the line as the line is reeled in and pulled out of the housing. This device provides a fence which is substantially tangle-free as the line is reeled into and pulled out of the housing.

Abstract: A retainer bracket for mounting on a fence post and for tensioning and support of a strip of fencing material includes a plate which is attached to the fence post, first and second support arms projecting outwardly from the plate and a rotatable bolt having a slot therethrough for receipt of the fencing material mounted. The support arms include a cam which cooperates with the head of the bolt to hold the bolt in position after it has been rotated to tension the fencing material.

Abstract: A fencing system which can resiliently articulate from an upright position, perpendicular to the ground, to a flattened position, parallel with the ground, is described. The fence system comprises at least two fence posts, where at least one fence post is a resiliently articulating fence post, and where the posts are connected by strands of fencing material such as barbed wire. The strands of fencing material are kept taut across the fence system by a tensioning system. The articulating fence posts include a shaft that supports the strands of fencing material, and an isotropically flexible member which is attached to the bottom end of the shaft. The fence system of the present invention avoids damage from a collision between farm equipment, such as a mobile irrigation system, and the fence by having the fence resiliently articulate, from an upright position to the ground, in order to allow the mobile equipment to run over the fence without breaking fence posts or snapping strands of fencing material.

Abstract: An apparatus for demarcating an area for restricting the freedom of movement of animals that may be in the area for grazing purposes. The demarcation element, as such, may be a cord, band, ribbon, strip, cable, rope or electrified or communication wire which may be two parallel wires separated by a flexible insulating material. The demarcation element is supported by a plurality of vehicles although one or two ends of same may be secured at a reference point. The vehicle is supported by two relatively large wheels which are independently connected to motors and the center of gravity of vehicle is lower than the centers of the wheels which may be perpendicular to the ground or slanted inwardly. The vehicle carries solar panels which may be mounted on the wheels if they are slanted. A connection for the demarcation element is carried on each vehicle which may include a guide member and tightening device.

Abstract: An apparatus for protecting the gate of an animal enclosure with an electrified wire that also extends along fencing includes a reel that dispenses and collects the wire to minimize the possibility of shock during gate opening and closing procedures. A hollow reel housing is mounted to a first fence post to which the gate is hingedly attached. A truncate wire connected to a source of electrical power such as an electrified fence wire extends into the hollow reel housing through a first opening and is connected to a nonrotating electrical contact. An annular rotating electrical contact is in electrical communication with a proximal end of wire coiled about the reel and is mounted on the reel so that the wire remains in electrical communication with the source of power when the reel is rotating in a wire-dispensing direction or in a wire-collecting direction. The wire, when uncoiled, extends through a second opening formed in the hollow reel housing.

Abstract: A highly portable fence post support system has a base member presenting a support face configured for engaging the surface of the ground for supporting the base member on the ground in a support position, and an anchoring device configured for insertion into the ground. The base member includes support structure for removably receiving a post and for supporting the post in an upright orientation when the base member is in the support position. The base member further includes coupling structure for coupling the base member with the anchoring device for preventing the support face from disengaging the surface of the ground when the device is inserted into the ground. The coupling structure is spaced from the support structure.

Abstract: A tool for tensioning a fence wire winds the fence wire around a barb-like article that remains in the fence after the tool has been removed. The barb-like article includes a first piece of wire that is substantially rigid and that extends parallel to but spaced from the fence wire, and further includes a second piece of wire that is joined to the first piece of wire and that has a U-shaped central portion that partially encircles the first piece of wire at its center and is bonded to it, the legs of the U-shaped central portion straddling the fence wire so that as the article is rotated by use of the tensioning tool, the fence wire is wound around the legs. One of the legs terminates in a crook which the user engages to the fence wire to prevent it from unwinding from the article, which thereby becomes a permanent part of the fence.

Abstract: A circular disk having a tool actuable projection on one face and a threaded stud projecting from the other face. A slit formed in the threaded stud that cooperates with a threaded receiving tool held disk. The threaded stud is placed over a line with the line fitting into the slot. The threaded disk is then screwed over the threaded stud to confine the wire within the slot. A plurality of matched and aligned openings in both disks concentrically located near the outer diameters of the disks through which pins, bolts or cotter pins can be inserted after the disks are rotated relative to one another to wind the wire about the bolt during a tightening operation, thereby not permitting the tightened wound wire from unwinding from the formed coil.

Abstract: A device for tensioning the corona-discharge wires of e.g. electrostatic copiers has an internally toothed sleeve member in which an externally toothed clamping member is turnably received. Both members have openings transverse to the longitudinal axis of the sleeve member. When an end portion of a corona wire whose other end is fixedly secured, is inserted through both openings in aligned condition of the same, turning of the clamping member draws the end portion between the members, tensioning the wire and clamping the end portion between the teeth of the members.

Abstract: A tool for stretching the individual wire strands of a fence from a slack into a taut condition. The tool is left attached to the tightened wire and can subsequently be employed to further tighten or loosen the wire. The tool has a plurality of slots arranged thereon which engage spaced marginal lengths of the wire. A set of spaced tabs are used to secure the tool to the wire to prevent inadvertent unwinding. A removable handle is provided by which the tool is engaged and manipulated in a manner to fold a length of wire between the slots thereof and back upon itself, and thereafter a pair of spaced tabs engage spaced marginal lengths of the wire to prevent the tool from unwinding from the bent-up wire.