Fashion fence framework

Abstract

A fence component with a first framework defining an opening and a second framework defining an opening, where the second framework faces the first framework. The fence component also has a panel between the first framework and the second framework, where the first opening faces a first side of the panel and the second opening faces a second side of the panel.

Description

This application claims the benefit of the filing date of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/214,431, filed on Apr. 23, 2009, and this application is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/321,842 filed Jan. 26, 2009 (pending), which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/335,098, filed Jan. 18, 2006 (abandoned), which claims the benefit of the filing date of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/645,218, filed Jan. 18, 2005, wherein U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/335,098 is a continuation-in-part application of both U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/293,454, filed on Dec. 2, 2005, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,389,975, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/347,972, filed on Jan. 21, 2003, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,032,891, wherein U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/293,454 is a divisional application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/347,972, and wherein each of the above mentioned U.S. regular and provisional applications is incorporated in its entirety by reference herein.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the invention

This invention relates to improvements in fencing systems and other outdoor structures, and more particularly relates to an improved apparatus that allows function and appearance of the structure to be selectively adjusted or changed to meet varying conditions of display and use.

2. Discussion of Related Art

Fencing is commonly used in public and private locations to provide security by barring entry to the enclosed locations to provide privacy, or to improve the aesthetic appearance of the area. Most fencing has a fixed structural design. The fence remains permanently in essentially the same condition of appearance and use after it is installed in the desired location. Expensive maintenance is often required to preserve the original condition and appearance of the fence. Any substantial change in the use or appearance of the fence usually requires laborious activity such as reconstruction or painting. These prior fence constructions are not changeable or adjustable to provide the fence with a new or different use or appearance.

The color and appearance of fencing or outdoor structures such as railing and decking are also difficult to change. Plastic materials are susceptible to degradation in sunlight due to the effect of ultraviolet rays. A plastic composition including titanium dioxide, a well known white pigment, provides a measure of protection from this potential degradation of the material when exposed to an outside environment. As a result, plastic fencing is usually a white or light color when treated with titanium dioxide or the like to minimize the possibility of degradation that may occur.

Some of these same disadvantages also arise with other outdoor structures, such as an outside rail or a deck that is constantly exposed to the elements. For example, it is difficult to change the function or appearance of an outdoor rail or deck component once it is installed in place. Substantial costs would also be involved in attempting to manufacture and inventory the different components needed to selectively change the function or appearance of the structure.

Additionally, lattice fencing and other fencing designs with holes or open spaces, while decorative and often desirable for aesthetic purposes, often result in a lack of privacy between, for example, neighboring residential yards.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One aspect of the present invention regards a fence component with a first framework defining a first opening, and a second framework defining a second opening. The second framework faces the first framework. Between the first framework and the second framework is a panel. The first opening faces a first side of the panel, and the second opening faces a second side of the panel, where the second side of the panel is opposite the first side of the panel.

A second aspect of the invention regards a fence system with a fence that has a first post and a second post. The fence also has a rail attached to the first and second posts, where the rail defines a pocket. The fence system also includes a fence component, which has a first framework defining a first opening, and a second framework defining a second opening. The second framework of the fence component faces the first framework. Between the first framework and the second framework is a panel with a first side and a second side, where the second side is opposite the first side. The first opening faces the first side of the panel, and the second opening faces the second side of the panel.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 includes a front view of one embodiment of a fence system having a fence and fence component in accordance with the present invention, a top view of the fence system, a close-up, cut-out top view of the fence system, and a close-up front view of the framework of the fence system.

FIG. 2 includes an expanded cross-sectional view of a portion of the fence system shown in FIG. 1, corresponding to a view of the fence component along line A as denoted in FIG. 1. FIG. 2 also includes a close-up view of the top fence rail of the fence system of FIG. 1, and a close-up view of the middle fence rail of the fence system of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a front view of an embodiment of a fence system incorporating a Highland fence style in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a front view of an embodiment of a fence system incorporating a Window Pane fence style in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS AND THE PRESENTLY PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of a portion of a fence system in accordance with the present invention. The fence system 100 includes a fence 101 with vertical fence posts 102 and 104, middle horizontal fence rail 106, and bottom horizontal fence rail 108. The fence 101 includes a series of fence members or pickets 120 positioned between the middle and bottom fence rails 106 and 108. As shown best in FIG. 2, middle fence rail 106 has a pocket 202 along the bottom of it, inside which the top portions of the fence members 120 are positioned. The illustrated fence members 120 are vertical but the members can be arranged horizontally, diagonally or in other positions that may be desired. These fence members or pickets 120 can be selectively and readily adjusted to change the use, function, or appearance of the fence system 100.

The portion of the fence system 100 comprising the posts 102 and 104 and fence members or pickets 120, as shown in the lower portion of the fence system 100 illustrated in FIG. 1, may generally be constructed in accordance with one or more of the embodiments of the fences as described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/335,098, which is a continuation-in-part application from U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/347,972, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,032,891.

The fence system 100 in FIGS. 1 and 2 includes a fence component 121 having a front framework 114 and a rear framework 118. The illustrated framework 114 is shown as a lattice. The invention is not limited to traditional lattice patterns typically used with fence panels. Different shapes and sizes of materials can be used to construct a variety of lattice or other framework patterns. The frameworks may incorporate a Highland fence pattern, as illustrated in FIG. 3, or a Window Pane fence pattern, as illustrated in FIG. 4. Alternatively, or additionally, the frameworks may include any combination of horizontal, vertical, or diagonal bars, spaced and arranged to form a decorative structure. Alternatively, or additionally, the frameworks may include an ornamental and/or structural criss-cross or arrangement of crossing laths or other thin strips of material. Alternatively, or additionally, the frameworks may include crossed strips arranged to form a regular or irregular pattern of open spaces, or a geometrical arrangement of positional lines over an area or space. Alternatively, or additionally, the frameworks 114 and 118 of fence system 100 may incorporate any other pattern which includes openings, gaps, spaces, holes, or other straight-edged or curved voids, for decorative or functional purposes.

The present invention may be configured so that the pattern used for the front framework 114 is the same as the pattern used for the rear framework 118. Alternatively, the pattern used for the front framework may be different from the pattern used for the rear framework 118. For example, a fence system may be constructed so that one side incorporates a Highland fence pattern, while the other side, separated one or more panels, incorporates a Window Pane fence pattern. Further, the frameworks may be changed at any point before, during, or after the construction of the fence system. Such changes may be made in order to change the aesthetic or functional properties of the fence system, and allow for the appearance of a new or upgraded fence system without undergoing significant expense or effort associated with replacing an entire fence system.

The front and rear frameworks may be vinyl lattice fencing. Alternatively, the frameworks may be made from metal, plastic, fiberglass, glass, wood, or any other material which may serve as a suitable framework for decorative or functional purposes.

As best shown in FIG. 2, middle fence rail 106 has a pocket 204 along the top of it, where the bottom ends of both the front framework 114 and the rear framework 118 are positioned. FIG. 2 also shows two panels 116 and 117 which are also positioned in pocket 204 of middle fence rail 106. Panels 116 and 117 are positioned next to each other, and between the front framework 114 and the rear framework 118, so that the front framework 114, rear framework 118, and panels 116 and 117 fit snugly into pocket 204.

While FIG. 2 shows two panels 116 and 117 positioned next to each other between the front framework 114 and the rear framework 118, the present invention may also be constructed so that a spacer is inserted between the two panels 116 and 117 (not shown). In this embodiment, the two frameworks 114 and 118 are still positioned on the outside of the panels. Panel 116 is positioned next to front framework 114 while panel 117 is positioned next to rear framework 118. However, rather than panel 116 and 117 being positioned next to each other, a spacer is positioned between them, with one side of the spacer being positioned next to panel 116, and a second side of the spacer, opposite the first side of the spacer, being positioned next to panel 117. Such a spacer may be useful in order to add appropriate width to the sandwiched layers (the front framework 114, panels 116 and 117, and the rear framework 118) in order that they fit snugly in pockets 204 and 206. Additionally, the spacer may be useful in adding structural support to the fence system.

Also, the embodiments described previously or subsequently may equally be constructed using only one panel between the front framework 114 and the rear framework 118. Such a single panel may or may not need or use spacers in the manner described above so as to achieve a snug fit when positioned in pockets 204 and 206.

In one such embodiment, a panel may be a solid, non-translucent, colored vinyl sheet. As such, the fence system creates a complete privacy effect for a fence system incorporating lattice or other frameworks, while maintaining the aesthetic appearance of the various lattice or other framework patterns for fencing panels. It does this with the panel, which ensures that there are no openings in the lattice to see through to the other side.

Panels may also be made from metal, glass, fiberglass, plastic, wood, or any other material or combination of materials which is suitable for being positioned between a front framework and a rear framework in the described fence system.

Each side of a panel may be any color. Further, both sides of a panel may be the same or different colors. A panel may be transparent, translucent, partially or semi-translucent, solid or non-translucent, or any variation in between. While a solid or non-translucent panel may be preferred for ensuring complete privacy, a semi-translucent panel may offer more decorative features while still providing more privacy that a fence system without a panel. Further, while a clear transparent panel may not offer an improved level of privacy, it may still be used to offer improved structural support and durability for the fence system, or to protect one side of the fence system from exterior elements which otherwise would pass freely through any openings of the framework.

Panels may have any texture or combination of textures, including smooth, rough, jagged, lined, bumpy, wavy, or any other texture which can be constructed with a panel. Further, both sides of a panel may have the same or different textures. In this way, different textures may be used to suit different aesthetic or functional purposes.

In alternative embodiments, two or more panels with the same or different colors, transparencies, and textures, are positioned between the front and rear frameworks of the same fence system. As such, the present invention offers abundant, interchangeable color and texture choices.

The fence system 100 also includes top rail 110. The front framework 114, panels 116 and 117, and rear framework 118 are positioned in pocket 206 of top rail 110.

In one embodiment, spacers may be included in pockets 204 and 206 to ensure that one or more frameworks and/or panels that are positioned in the pockets fit snugly.

FIG. 2 illustrates an expanded cross-sectional view of a portion of the fence system corresponding to line A in FIG. 1. In addition to the expanded cross-sectional view, FIG. 2 also includes two close-up views: one of the top fence rail 110, and a second of the middle fence rail 106. Each of the close-up views shows the respective fence rails 110 and 106 with the front framework 114, panels 116 and 117, and rear framework 118 positioned in the fence rail pockets 204 and 206.

The layers of the fence system, which include a front framework, one or more panels, and a rear framework, may be assembled in a sandwich-like manner. These layers may be secured by existing internal pockets of rails of a fence panel as illustrated. Alternatively, or in combination, the layers may be secured to a fence panel in a number of well known ways, such as utilizing a series of external fasteners, such as a framework of u-channels.

The present invention may be incorporated in a fence system or barrier made of a front framework, a rear framework, and a panel, without fence members 120. Additionally, or alternatively, the present invention may be used with a fence system where fence members 120 are located above the front framework, rear framework, and panel, or where one or more levels, portions, or areas of the fence system comprising fence members 120 exist in some relationship to one or more levels, portions, or areas of the fence system comprising a framework and panel.

The present invention may be used with outdoor rail or deck components, as well as any fence, wall, or barrier which incorporates a lattice structure, openings, gaps, spaces, holes, or other straight-edged or curved voids, for decorative or functional purposes.

Additionally, or alternatively, the present invention can be used in any of the above described embodiments with only a front framework and panel, without a rear framework. For example, the present invention may be used with a panel and a front lattice framework surrounding an elevated deck for aesthetic or functional purposes.

The present invention offers a number of benefits. Changing the color of the fence system after the fence system has been installed only requires replacing the panel portion of the fence system, rather than the entire structure of the fence system. This reduces costs and increases product versatility.

The present invention offers the choice of uniform or multiple color schemes and textures for the front side and back side of fence panels incorporating the lattice or other framework structure. The present invention allows for abundant and interchangeable color and texture choices for fencing. The present invention also offers increased strength and durability realized by the inherent design of having an integrated backing (the panels) that provides additional support to the lattice or other framework structure.

The present invention also offers the ability to have the same color and appearance on both sides of the lattice or other framework structure, or alternatively have a first color and/or appearance on the front side, while having a different color and/or appearance on the backside.

In addition, the present invention allows for quick and easy replacement of portions of a fencing system without requiring the entire fence system to be reconstructed or painted.

While the invention has been described above by reference to various embodiments, it will be understood that many changes and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. It is therefore intended that the foregoing detailed description be regarded as illustrative rather than limiting, and that it be understood that it is the following claims, including all equivalents, that are intended to define the spirit and scope of this invention.

Claims

1. A fence component comprising:

a first framework defining a first opening;

a second framework defining a second opening, wherein the second framework faces the first framework; and

a panel between the first framework and the second framework, wherein the first opening faces a first side of the panel and the second opening faces a second side of the panel that is opposite the first side of the panel.

2. The fence component of claim 1, wherein the second framework is positioned substantially parallel to the first framework.

3. The fence component of claim 1, wherein the first side of the panel is a first color and the second side of the panel is a second color, and wherein the first color and the second color are different.

4. The fence component of claim 1, wherein the first framework comprises a lattice pattern.

5. The fence component of claim 1, further comprising a second panel between the first framework and the panel.

6. A fence system comprising:

a fence comprising: a first post; a second post; a rail attached to the first post and the second post, wherein the rail defines a pocket;

a fence component comprising: a first framework defining a first opening; a second framework defining a second opening, wherein the second framework faces the first framework; and a panel between the first framework and the second framework, wherein the first opening faces a first side of the panel and the second opening faces a second side of the panel that is opposite the first side of the panel.

7. The fence system of claim 6, wherein the fence component is assembled and secured to the fence by the pocket.

8. The fence system of claim 6, wherein the fence component is secured to the fence by a series of external fasteners.

9. The fence system of claim 6, wherein the panel prevents light from passing through the fence component through the first opening.