Landscape timber connector

Abstract

A landscape connector is adapted for coupling respective proximal ends of adjacent landscape timbers. The landscape connector includes spaced-apart opposing top and bottom walls and opposing side walls. The top and bottom walls define respective flat outside surfaces of the landscape connector. The side walls are formed with the top and bottom walls, and define respective outwardly bowed inside surfaces of the landscape connector. The top, bottom, and side walls cooperate to form a stable housing having first and second open ends adapted for receiving respective proximal ends of the adjacent landscape timbers.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a landscape connector applicable for coupling respective proximal ends of adjacent landscape timbers.

Landscape timbers are a popular and common “hardscape” in many residential properties, adding a woodsy and practical accent to the yard, garden, or playground. Such timbers are relatively lightweight and have two opposing flat sides allowing them to be easily stacked. While most timbers are composed of new wood, others are manufactured of recycled plastics. In either case, the timbers are relatively uniform and smooth making them excellent for stair steps and retaining walls. Other popular applications include flower-bed borders, walkway, patio, and driveway curbs, garden beds, pond enclosures, sandboxes, and decorative walls. Landscape timbers are available in a full range of sizes—from 4″×4′ to 12″×12′.

When stacking timbers, particularly above 2-3 courses, in order to stabilize the landscape structure, a number of 10″ galvanized spikes are typically hammered through overlapping ends using a sledge hammer. This process is both labor intensive and time consuming, and in many cases damages the timber or detracts from the overall aesthetic appearance of the landscape structure. Any protrusion of the spikes above or beyond the timber may also present a substantial safety hazzard. For single course structures, the timbers are generally arranged end-to-end around a designated perimeter. In playgrounds and other high traffic areas, the timbers are often inadvertently kicked out of place, creating a rather disheveled appearance in the landscaping.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

Therefore, it is an object of the invention to provide a landscape connector which safely and securely interconnects adjacent timbers.

It is another object of the invention to provide a landscape connector which is relatively inexpensive to manufacture.

It is another object of the invention to provide a landscape connector which is applicable for effectively interconnecting multiple stacked timbers in adjacent sets of timbers.

It is another object of the invention to provide a landscape connector which interconnects adjacent timbers without the use of large spikes.

It is another object of the invention to provide a landscape connector which is relatively easy to install.

It is another object of the invention to provide a landscape connector which is durable and essentially maintenance free.

It is another object of the invention to provide a landscape connector which may be manufactured in a variety of colors.

It is another object of the invention to provide a timber staple applicable for securing a single or first course of landscape timbers to the ground.

It is another object of the invention to provide a method of interconnecting respective proximal ends of adjacent landscape timbers.

These and other objects of the present invention are achieved in the preferred embodiments disclosed below by providing a landscape connector adapted for coupling respective proximal ends of adjacent landscape timbers. The landscape connector includes spaced-apart opposing top and bottom walls and opposing side walls. The top and bottom walls define respective flat outside surfaces of the landscape connector. The side walls are formed with the top and bottom walls, and define respective outwardly bowed inside surfaces of the landscape connector. The top, bottom, and side walls cooperate to form a stable housing having first and second open ends adapted for receiving respective proximal ends of the adjacent landscape timbers.

The term “timber” is used broadly herein to describe any cut wood or other material suitable for use in a landscape structure.

According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, the housing defines a timber-connection angle between the first open end and the second open end.

According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, the timber-connection angle is approximately 120 degrees.

According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, the timber-connection angle is approximately 90 degrees.

According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, the first and second open ends of the housing are located in substantial linear alignment.

According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, a first intermediate wall is formed between and parallel to the top and bottom walls of the housing. Each of the first and second open ends is thus adapted for receiving respective proximal ends of two stacked timbers.

According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, a second intermediate wall is formed parallel to the first intermediate wall and between the top and bottom walls of the housing. Each of the first and second open ends is thus adapted for receiving respective proximal ends of three stacked timbers.

According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, means are provided for mechanically attaching the housing to respective proximal ends of the adjacent landscape timbers.

According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, the means for mechanically attaching includes a fastener selected from a group consisting of nails, screws, bolts, rivets, and staples. Other means for attaching may include a narrow elastic or nylon belt tightly wrapped around an outside of the housing, an adhesive, or simple friction fit.

According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, at least one of the top, bottom, and side walls of the housing defines at least one fastener opening adapted for receiving the mechanical fastener.

In another embodiment, the invention is a method for coupling respective proximal ends of adjacent landscape timbers. The method includes the steps of inserting a proximal end of a first landscape timber into an open end of a multi-wall landscape connector. A proximal end of an adjacent landscape timber is then inserted into a second open end of the landscape connector.

According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, the method further includes mechanically attaching the landscape connector to respective proximal ends of the adjacent landscape timbers.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Some of the objects of the invention have been set forth above. Other objects and advantages of the invention will appear as the description proceeds when taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is an environmental view of a landscape connector according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is an exploded view showing proximal ends of adjacent landscape timbers removed from the connector, the mechanical fasteners pulled away from respective fastener holes formed with the connector, and one timber staple pulled away from the timber;

FIG. 3 is a view of the timber stable applicable for anchoring the landscape timber to the ground;

FIG. 4 is a further perspective view of the landscape connector shown in FIGS. 1 and 2;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a landscape connector according to a second preferred embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a landscape connector according to a third preferred embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a landscape connector according to a fourth preferred embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a landscape connector according to a fifth preferred embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a landscape connector according to a sixth preferred embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a landscape connector according to an seventh preferred embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a landscape connector according to a eighth preferred embodiment of the invention; and

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a landscape connector according to a ninth preferred embodiment of the invention.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT AND BEST MODE

Referring now specifically to the drawings, an integrally-molded landscape connector according to the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 1, and shown generally at reference numeral 10. The connector 10 is applicable for mechanically coupling respective proximal ends of adjacent landscape timbers 11 and 12. Such timbers are commonly used in decorative landscape walls, and to frame out sandboxes, playgrounds, sidewalks, planting beds, and the like. Mechanical fasteners 14, such as nails, screws, and bolts, fixedly attach the landscape connector 10 to the timbers 11, 12.

Preferably, the timbers 11, 12 are anchored to the ground using one or more rust-resistant, metal wire timber staples 15. As best shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the timber staple 15 comprises an inverted, generally U-shaped wire with a timber-engaging body portion 16 and spaced-apart free ends 17 and 18 adapted for being driven into the ground. The body portion 16 of the staple 15 jogs inwardly at points 19 and 20 at the junction of each free end 17, 18, such that the staple 15 substantially encircles the timber 11, 12 and is relatively inconspicuous when properly installed.

Referring to FIG. 4, the landscape connector 10 comprises integrally-formed top, bottom, and side walls 21, 22, 23, and 24 which cooperate to form a rigid and stable open-ended housing 30. The top and bottom walls 21, 22 form respective flat outside surfaces of the connector 10, whereas the side walls 23, 24 are bowed slightly outwardly to accommodate the slightly curved opposing sides of the timber (See FIGS. 1 and 2). Preferably, the top wall 21 has fastener holes 31 and 32 adjacent each open end 33, 34 of the housing 30 for receiving the mechanical fasteners into the timbers. In this embodiment, the housing 27 defines a timber-connection angle α of approximately 90 degrees between the first open end 33 and the second open end 34.

FIG. 5 illustrates a second embodiment of a landscape connector 40 applicable for coupling adjacent pairs of stacked timbers (not shown). The connector 40 comprises integrally-formed top and bottom walls 41, 42, an intermediate wall 43, and side walls 44 and 45 cooperating to form a rigid and stable open-ended housing 50. The top, bottom, and intermediate walls 41-43 reside in parallel planes and are substantially coextensive. As previously described, the top and bottom walls 41, 42 form respective flat outside surfaces of the connector 40. The side walls 44 and 45 are bowed slightly outwardly to accommodate the slightly curved opposing sides of the timber, but pinch inwardly at the intermediate wall 43 to form separate and distinct timber-receiving openings 51A-51B and 52A-52B. Preferably, at least four fastener holes 53A-53D and 54A-54D are formed in the side walls 44, 45 adjacent each open end 51, 52 of the housing 50 for receiving respective mechanical fasteners into the timbers. The timber-connection angle a of this embodiment is likewise approximately 90 degrees between the first open end 51 and the second open end 52.

A third embodiment of a landscape connector 60 applicable for coupling adjacent sets of three stacked timbers is shown in FIG. 6. The connector 60 comprises integrally-formed top and bottom walls 61, 62, intermediate walls 63, 64, and side walls 65, 66. The walls 61-66 cooperate to form a rigid and stable open-ended housing 70. The top and bottom walls 61, 62 and intermediate walls 63, 64 reside in parallel planes and are substantially coextensive. As previously described, the top and bottom walls 61, 62 form respective flat outside surfaces of the connector 60. The side walls 65, 66 are bowed slightly outwardly to accommodate the slightly curved opposing sides of the timber, but pinch inwardly at the intermediate walls 63, 64 to form separate and distinct timber-receiving openings 71A-71C and 72A-72C. Preferably, at least six fastener holes 73A-73F and 74A-74F are formed in the side walls 65, 66 adjacent each open end 71, 72 of the housing 70 for receiving respective mechanical fasteners into the timbers. The timber-connection angle a of this embodiment is approximately 90 degrees between the first open end 71 and the second open end 72.

FIG. 7 illustrates a fourth embodiment of a landscape connector 80 applicable for coupling proximal ends of adjacent timbers (not shown). The connector 80 comprises integrally-formed top, bottom, and side walls 81, 82, 83, and 84 cooperating to form a rigid and stable open-ended housing 90. The top and bottom walls 81, 82 reside in parallel planes and are substantially coextensive. As previously described, the top and bottom walls 81, 82 form respective flat outside surfaces of the connector 80, whereas the side walls 83, 84 are bowed slightly outwardly to accommodate the slightly curved opposing sides of the timber. Preferably, respective fastener holes 91 and 92 are formed in the top wall 81 adjacent each open end 93, 94 of the housing 90 for receiving respective mechanical fasteners into the timbers. The timber-connection angle a of this embodiment is approximately 120 degrees between the first open end 93 and the second open end 94.

FIG. 8 illustrates a fifth embodiment of a landscape connector 100 applicable for coupling adjacent pairs of stacked timbers (not shown). The connector 100 comprises integrally-formed top and bottom walls 101, 102, an intermediate wall 103, and side walls 104, 105 cooperating to form a rigid and stable open-ended housing 110. The top, bottom, and intermediate walls 101 -103 reside in parallel planes and are substantially coextensive. As previously described, the top and bottom walls 101, 102 form respective flat outside surfaces of the connector 100. The side walls 104, 105 are bowed slightly outwardly to accommodate the slightly curved opposing sides of the timber, but pinch inwardly at the intermediate wall 103 to form separate and distinct timber-receiving openings 111A, 111B and 112A, 112B. Preferably, at least four fastener holes 113A-113D and 114A-114D (114C, 114D not shown) are formed in the side walls 104, 105 adjacent each open end 111, 112 of the housing 110 for receiving respective mechanical fasteners into the timbers. The timber-connection angle a of this embodiment is likewise approximately 120 degrees between the first open end 111 and the second open end 112.

A sixth embodiment of a landscape connector 120 applicable for coupling adjacent sets of three stacked timbers is shown in FIG. 9. The connector 120 comprises integrally-formed top and bottom walls 121, 122, intermediate walls 123, 124, and side walls 125, 126. The walls 121-126 cooperate to form a rigid and stable open-ended housing 130. The top and bottom walls 121, 122 and intermediate walls 123, 124 reside in parallel planes and are substantially coextensive. As previously described, the top and bottom walls 121, 122 form respective flat outside surfaces of the connector 120. The side walls 125, 126 are bowed slightly outwardly to accommodate the slightly curved opposing sides of the timber, but pinch inwardly at the intermediate walls 123, 124 to form separate and distinct timber-receiving openings 131A-131C and 132A-132C. Preferably, at least six fastener holes 133A-133F and 134A-134F (134D-134F not shown) are formed in the side walls 125, 126 adjacent each open end 131, 132 of the housing 130 for receiving respective mechanical fasteners into the timbers. The timber-connection angle α of this embodiment is approximately 120 degrees between the first open end 131 and the second open end 132.

FIG. 10 illustrates a seventh embodiment of a landscape connector 140 applicable for coupling proximal ends of adjacent timbers (not shown). The connector 140 comprises integrally-formed top, bottom, and side walls 141, 142, 143, and 144 cooperating to form a rigid and stable open-ended housing 150. The top and bottom walls 141, 142 reside in parallel planes and are substantially coextensive. As previously described, the top and bottom walls 141, 142 form respective flat outside surfaces of the connector 140, whereas the side walls 143, 144 are bowed slightly outwardly to accommodate the slightly curved opposing sides of the timber. Preferably, respective fastener holes 151 and 152 are formed in the top wall 141 adjacent each open end 153, 154 of the housing 150 for receiving respective mechanical fasteners into the timbers. In this embodiment, the first and second open ends 153, 154 of the housing 150 are located in substantial linear alignment.

FIG. 11 illustrates an eighth embodiment of a landscape connector 160 applicable for coupling adjacent pairs of stacked timbers (not shown). The connector 160 comprises integrally-formed top and bottom walls 161, 162, an intermediate wall 163, and side walls 164, 165 cooperating to form a rigid and stable open-ended housing 170. The top, bottom, and intermediate walls 161-163 reside in parallel planes and are substantially coextensive. As previously described, the top and bottom walls 161, 162 form respective flat outside surfaces of the connector 160. The side walls 164, 165 are bowed slightly outwardly to accommodate the slightly curved opposing sides of the timber, but pinch inwardly at the intermediate wall 163 to form separate and distinct timber-receiving openings 171A, 171B and 172A, 172B. Preferably, at least four fastener holes 173A-173D (173C, 173D not shown) and 174A-174D are formed in the side walls 164, 165 adjacent each open end 171, 172 of the housing 170 for receiving respective mechanical fasteners into the timbers. The first and second open ends 171, 172 of the housing 170 are located in substantial linear alignment.

A ninth embodiment of a landscape connector 180 applicable for coupling adjacent sets of three stacked timbers is shown in FIG. 12. The connector 180 comprises integrally-formed top and bottom walls 181, 182, intermediate walls 183, 184, and side walls 185, 186. The walls 181-186 cooperate to form a rigid and stable open-ended housing 190. The top and bottom walls 181, 182 and intermediate walls 183, 184 reside in parallel planes and are substantially coextensive. As previously described, the top and bottom walls 181, 182 form respective flat outside surfaces of the connector 180. The side walls 185, 186 are bowed slightly outwardly to accommodate the slightly curved opposing sides of the timber, but pinch inwardly at the intermediate walls 183, 184 to form separate and distinct timber-receiving openings 191A-191C and 192A-192C. Preferably, at least six fastener holes 193A-193F (193D-193F not shown) and 194A-194F are formed in the side walls 185, 186 adjacent each open end 191, 192 of the housing 190 for receiving respective mechanical fasteners into the timbers. The first and second open ends 191, 192 of the housing 190 are located in substantial linear alignment.

In a further embodiment (not shown), the landscape connector may have substantially straight side walls, and may or may not include pre-formed fastener openings.

Multiple embodiments of a landscape timber connector are described above. Various details of the invention may be changed without departing from its scope. Furthermore, the foregoing description of the preferred embodiment of the invention and best mode for practicing the invention are provided for the purpose of illustration only and not for the purpose of limitation—the invention being defined by the claims.

Claims

1. A landscape connector adapted for coupling respective proximal ends of adjacent landscape timbers, said landscape connector comprising:

spaced-apart opposing top and bottom walls defining respective flat outside surfaces of said landscape connector;

spaced-apart opposing side walls formed with said top and bottom walls, and defining respective outwardly bowed inside surfaces of said landscape connector;

said top, bottom, and side walls cooperating to form a stable housing having first and second open ends adapted for receiving respective proximal ends of the adjacent landscape timbers.

2. A landscape connector according to claim 1, wherein said housing defines a timber-connection angle between the first open end and the second open end.

3. A landscape connector according to claim 2, wherein said timber-connection angle is 120 degrees.

4. A landscape connector according to claim 2, wherein said timber-connection angle is 90 degrees.

5. A landscape connector according to claim 1, wherein the first and second open ends of said housing are located in substantial linear alignment.

6. A landscape connector according to claim 1, and comprising a first intermediate wall formed between and parallel to said top and bottom walls of said housing, such that each of said first and second open ends is adapted for receiving respective proximal ends of two stacked timbers.

7. A landscape connector according to claim 6, wherein said housing defines a timber-connection angle between the first open end and the second open end.

8. A landscape connector according to claim 7, wherein said timber-connection angle is approximately 120 degrees.

9. A landscape connector according to claim 7, wherein said timber-connection angle is approximately 90 degrees.

10. A landscape connector according to claim 6, wherein the first and second open ends of said housing are located in substantial linear alignment.

11. A landscape connector according to claim 6, and comprising a second intermediate wall formed parallel to said first intermediate wall and between said top and bottom walls of said housing, such that each of said first and second open ends is adapted for receiving respective proximal ends of three stacked timbers.

12. A landscape connector according to claim 11, wherein said housing defines a timber-connection angle between the first open end and the second open end.

13. A landscape connector according to claim 12, wherein said timber-connection angle is approximately 120 degrees.

14. A landscape connector according to claim 12, wherein said timber-connection angle is approximately 90 degrees.

15. A landscape connector according to claim 11, wherein the first and second open ends of said housing are located in substantial linear alignment.

16. A landscape connector according to claim 1, and comprising means for mechanically attaching said housing to respective proximal ends of the adjacent landscape timbers.

17. A landscape connector according to claim 16, wherein said means for mechanically attaching comprises a fastener selected from a group consisting of nails, screws, bolts, rivets, and staples.

18. A landscape connector according to claim 17, wherein at least one of said top, bottom, and side walls of said housing defines at least one fastener opening adapted for receiving said mechanical fastener.

19. A method for coupling respective proximal ends of adjacent landscape timbers, said method comprising the steps of:

inserting a proximal end of a first landscape timber into an open end of a multi-wall landscape connector;

inserting a proximal end of an adjacent landscape timber into a second open end of the landscape connector.

20. A method according to claim 19, and comprising mechanically attaching the landscape connector to respective proximal ends of the adjacent landscape timbers.