BARRIER FENCE ASSEMBLY

Abstract

A barrier fence assembly (100) having a barrier fence body (102) has a portion thereof positioned below ground surface (110) and includes a series of barrier stakes (114) to facilitate prevention of traverse of animals across a desired boundary. The barrier stakes (114) are received through upper and lower apertures (150, 152) of a horizontal support brace (140). The horizontal support brace (140) includes horizontally disposed apertures (136, 138) through which flexible wire ties (160) can be received and releasably coupled to an adjacent wire mesh fence (104).

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Not applicable.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable.

REFERENCE TO A MICROFICHE APPENDIX

Not applicable.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The invention relates to barrier apparatus and, more particularly, to barrier fence apparatus having the capability of extending below a ground surface and releasably coupling to existing barrier structures.

2. Background Art

Various types of above-ground structures have been developed in past years for the purposes of restraining or otherwise confining animals of a number of various species within an interior circumscribed by the barrier. In addition, above-ground fences and other barrier structures have been developed as well for preventing humans, as well as animals, from ingress to a circumscribed interior. Such uses to prevent ingress are numerous and varied. For example, solid, wooden or similar fences having an opaque appearance may be used in situations where persons in the circumscribed interior wish to have substantial privacy. These and other kinds of fences may also be used for safety measures, such as enclosing and preventing ingress to a swimming pool or the like. Other types of fences and similar barrier structures may be used when the circumscribed interior includes landscaping, gardens and other structures which can be damaged by animals of various kinds gaining access to the interior. Animals capable of damaging landscaped interiors and interiors comprising garden foods include moles, gofers, rabbits and the like. Also, many fences and other barrier structures are erected for purposes of confining dogs within a circumscribed interior or, alternatively, preventing dogs and similar animals from gaining assess to the circumscribed interior.

Although the prior are consists of numerous examples of fences and other barrier structures for providing the aforedescribed functions, these structures primarily operate above or only a small depth below the ground surface. Accordingly, such barrier structures and fences of various types operate in a manner which can prevent humans from ingress to or egress from the circumscribed interior, and can also operate so as to prevent relatively large animals from such ingress or egress.

However, smaller animals, particularly those which primarily live under the ground level and those which present traits and physical characteristics which facilitate the capability of burrowing from above to below ground level, will not necessarily be prevented from ingress or egress by an above-ground fence or a similar barrier structure.

In view of the foregoing, and as earlier stated, the prior art consist of numerous kinds of fences and other barrier structures for preventing movement into and out of an enclosed interior area. Further, in accordance with the prior discussion regarding animals which live within or otherwise have the capability of burrowing underground below the lower most position of a conventional fence or other barrier structure, attempts have been made to overcome these problems through various prior art devices.

For example, Newcomb, U.S. Pat. No. 390,186 issued Sep. 25, 1888, is an early disclosure of a fence comprising wire mesh material and wooden posts having block anchors for supporting the posts at spaced apart locations. The Newcomb patent is relevant only in showing an early fence with anchor wires which extend below ground level and secured to underground anchors.

Carmichael, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012/0187359, published Jul. 26, 2012, describes an extendable fence in the form of an underground fence barrier which prevents dogs from digging out underneath the fence and escaping from a yard. Carmichael explains that prior to his invention, various methods were utilized by homeowners to prevent their dogs from digging out from underneath the fence. For example, homeowners would dig below a portion of the fence and insert a board to discourage digging. However, in such event, the dog would often go to another area of the fence, or dig the board out from the ground. To discourage underground digging would sometimes involve the homeowner burying chicken wire, wire mesh, large rocks or chain links under the fence. Other approaches used by homeowners include incorporating a trench filled with concrete under the fence. However, such an approach is expensive and may be impractical where a homeowner has already built a fence, and insulation of the trench in concrete would mean dismantling the existing fence and rebuilding the fence once the concrete has filled the trench.

To describe the Carmichael extendible fence, reference will be made to the reference numbers used by Carmichael in his description and drawings. Specifically, Carmichael discloses an underground fence barrier 10. The fence barrier 10 includes a series of barrier strips 50, with a corresponding series of stakes 20. The barrier strip 50 is described as being constructed in the form of a longitudinal half pipe or half cylinder section, because plastic pipe is readily available and easy to cut. However, Carmichael further explains that the barrier strip 50 could also be constructed with a flat configuration, or other suitable shape. Because the barrier strip 50 is provided in sections, the strip 50 can be attached in series to another barrier strip 50 so as to form a continuous barrier around the entirety of the fence 80 using a series of fastening devices, such as screws, nails or the like. In addition, Carmichael describes the concept that the barrier strip 50 can be provided in the form of a continuous coil which is rolled out alongside the length of the fence 80. The strip 50 could include a series of equidistant openings 60, so that a stake 20 can be inserted through each of the openings 60 and a lower point 40 of each stake 20 is driven below the ground surface 70. The equidistant openings 60 are spaced sufficiently close together so as to prevent a dog from crawling or tunneling through to the opposite side of the fence 80. Carmichael explains that the openings 60 are preferably spaced approximately four inches apart, and two inches from the end of the barrier strip 50. Carmichael further explains that it is considered important to achieve a close spacing of the stakes 20, so as to achieve the desired protective barrier around the fence 80.

With reference to FIGS. 1 and 2 of Carmichael, it is explained that the openings 60 that are cut through the barrier strip 50 are cut so as to match the cross-sectional shape of the stakes 20. In this manner, the openings 60 can serve as key holes are dimensioned just slightly smaller than the stakes 20. The relatively close tolerance between the key holes and the stakes 20 yield a relatively tight and secure fit. The key holes serve as a means to securely fit the stakes in the barrier strip, but Carmichael further explains that other means can be used to satisfactorily secure the fit. The fit is considered important because it resists any upward movement in the soil which would force the stakes 20 upward and out of the soil, thereby enabling the dog to dig downward and crawl between the remaining stakes 20. Further, the secure fit allows vertical adjustment of a stake 20 so as to install the underground fence barrier 10 along a fence 80 on uneven terrain. In a case of such uneven terrain, a relatively longer stake length would be selected, depending upon the distance between the bottom of the fence and the ground.

The series of stakes 20 are used to anchor the barrier strip 50 to the ground 70. The stakes 20, barrier strip 50 and fence 80 are coplanar to each other. As shown in FIGS. 3, 6 and 7 of Carmichael, the stakes 20 may be of a concave-shape, but Carmichael explains that any shape is suitable, so long as it would match the keyhole openings 60 in the barrier strip 50. Carmichael further explains that the stakes 20 could be in the form of rods, nails or the like. The stakes 20 are provided in differing lengths, and are selected depending upon the distance between the bottom of the fence 80 and the ground 70, and also depending upon the nature of the soil. A relatively longer stake 20 would be more appropriate if the soil in a certain area is softer or more easily dug. A stake 20 could be inserted into each of the openings 60 and driven into the ground 70 so as to provide the underground barrier. Each stake 20 has an enlarged head 30, which limits the downward passage of each stake 20 when it contacts the barrier strip 50. Each stake 20 has a lower point 40 that extends into the ground 70.

Carmichael further explains that a preferred method of using the Carmichael extendible fence includes a method of construction starting with the positioning of a barrier strip section as close as possible to the existing fence. A stake is then inserted through the keyhole openings at the ends of the barrier strip section and driven into the ground. The remaining stakes are then inserted through the remaining keyhole openings in the barrier strip and also driven into the ground. An appropriate stake length is selected based upon the nature of the soil, the dog's ability to tunnel and the nature of the terrain.

Still further, Carmichael explains that the underground fence barrier may be provided in kit form, with a plurality of barrier strip 50 sections and stakes 20. The barrier strip 50 may be provided in the form of a continuous coil that has rolled out along the edge of the fence. The stakes may be provided at different variations, as shown in FIGS. 3, 6, and 7. In addition, the kit would be designed so as to contain a set of installation instructions.

Another publication directed to fences and prevention of dogs from digging under the fences is OHAI, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2002/0190248 published Dec. 19, 2002. Again with reference to the numerals used in the disclosure in the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a wrought iron fence indicated generally by reference character 10. The fence 10 includes a pair of posts 11 and 12, to which an upper rail 13 and a lower rail 14 are supported. The fence includes a series of vertical styles 15 fixed to the rails 13, 14. The bottom 16 of the fence 10 is positioned near or above the ground surface 17. The fence includes an addition having a horizontal support bar 18 fixed to the fence near the bottom edge 16 thereof. A series of guide tubes 19 are welded or otherwise secured to the horizontal support bar 18. A spike 20 is passed through each guide tube. Each spike 20 has a point 21 which is driven below the ground surface 17. Each spike can include an enlarged head 22 which limits the downward passage of each stake when it contacts the upper surface of a guide tube 19. Preferably, spikes at different lengths are used, so that if the bottom 16 of the fence 10 is further from the ground surface 17, a longer spike can be used. Conversely, if the ground surface is touching the bottom 16 of the fence 10, a shorter spike can be used.

FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate the guide tubes as being rectangular, with the spikes having a cylindrical configuration. It is explained by providing rectangular tubes, they can be more securely attachable to the horizontal support bar 18.

OHAI further explains that although these support tubes can be welded or otherwise affixed to the horizontal support bar 18, or to the lower rail 14, it is contemplated that the support bar 18 could be provided with a series of hooks 23 which may be placed over the lower rail 14. With a chain link fence, the hooks can simply be placed with any openings of the fence. By driving spikes 20 into the ground and passing them through guide tubes 19, the spikes support the guide tubes 19, which in turn supports lower 14. In this matter, the addition to the fence can be applied by a homeowner to an existing, installed fence.

A process for using the addition is described as including the steps of attaching a horizontal support bar to the fence near the bottom thereof. The support bar has a plurality of spaced guide tubes vertically held thereby. A spike is inserted through each of the guide tubes and driven into the ground. This provides an underground barrier to discourage dogs from digging under the fence. Preferably, an appropriate spike length is selected depending upon the distance the bottom of the fence is from the ground, and also depending upon the nature of the ground. If soil in a certain area is softer or more easily dug, a longer spike is appropriate. If the lower rail is supported by hooks, the process includes a step of hooking the horizontal support bar to the fence, before passing the spike through the guide tubes.

An alternative embodiment of the spikes is illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6. In FIG. 5, a gate 24 is shown held between posts 25 and 26. If spikes 27 are held in guide tube 19, and supported above the surface of a concrete walk 28 by an upper O-ring 29. The O-ring 29 tightly fits around the spike 27, and abuts the upper surface 30 of the guide tube 19. A lower ring 31 helps to prevent a dog or other animal from lifting a spike and escaping. The spike 27 does not have a head, since the upper ring limits the downward travel through the guide tube 19.

An issued patent directed to preventing passage of rodents below ground and through a perimeter of a manufactured home is disclosed in Bushong, U.S. Pat. No. 5,669,187 issued Sep. 23, 1997. The Bushong patent describes a rodent guard adapted for use with a skirting system perimetrically extending about the outer lower perimeter of a manufactured home. The home is statically supported in space relation with the underlying earth surface through spacers. The home can include a lower, horizontal strip that can be loosened so that the upper lip of the skirting system can be inserted into the space between the strip and the outer lower wall of the home. The skirting system can include a series of longitudinally aligned, interconnected vertical panels having an upper lip which can be introduced under the loosened strip.

The skirting system includes an elongate, upperwardly opening, lower retainer or channel, having a bottom wall for resting on the surface of the ground or earth. The channel includes a laterally inner upstanding leg and laterally outer outstanding leg or lip spaced a slight distance from the lower terminal margin of the panel. The lower marginal end of the panel is freely received in the channel so as to allow a slight vertical movement there between.

The problem with rodents particularly arises when the earth below the channel washes out or otherwise could be easily dug out by a rodent, so as to allow the passage to the underside of the house. When the dirt is removed, the skirt becomes increasingly unstable and forces, such as wind blowing in the proper direction on the skirt, will dislodge the lower end of the panels, and cause the panels to become unsightly and fully allow the passage of rodents. The rodent guard includes a mesh screen having a series of vertically extending and longitudinally spaced apart vertical wires welded or otherwise suitably secured to a series of vertically spaced apart, horizontally displaced horizontal wires, so as to define a series of ground receiving openings or interstices. The guard includes an elongate, upstanding or vertical barrier wall, including at its upper end a laterally inwardly offset flange and at its lower end, a laterally outwardly offset barrier flange. The flange is above ground, while the barrier flange is below the earth surface and extends generally perpendicular to the plane of the barrier wall. The guard can be formed from a unitary piece of galvanized steel mesh, having a quarter inch opening, but may also be manufactured from aluminum and/or stainless steel.

The interstices also allow underground electrical wires or small water pipes to pass through without having to cut holes in the rodent guard. The upper flange includes a downwardly opening, generally U-shaped channel, having a down-turned elongated terminal lip 51 adapted to receive the laterally outer, upstanding lip 34 of the channel member. The flange is not bolted, screwed, or otherwise attached to the manufactured home, nor to the skirting system, but freely vertically flows so as to allow for slight variations and shifting in the Earth's surface, while maintaining the integrity of the barrier so as to prevent rodents from passing between the flange and the cooperate U-shaped retainer. Accordingly, in addition to functioning so as to inhibit the passage of rodents beneath the skirting system, the rodent guard stabilizes and increases the stability of the skirting.

In operation, the user will temporarily remove the laterally outer earth along the designated area, to a specific depth and install the guard with the upper terminal lip being received between a lower marginal edge of the panel and the upturned lip or flange. The earth is then returned to its original position. The terminal lip is not coupled with the flange but instead is completely moveable relative thereto for a slight undulation in the Earth's surface, and for slight vertical variations in earth movement, the presence of the guard buried under the earth will stabilize the lower end of the skirting system. If wind or other aboveground forces are exerted on the skirt, in a particular direction, the lip will exert force, in a different direction, on the upturned lip. When the temporarily removed earth is replaced, it will freely pass through the interstices and openings in the barrier wall as the earth shifts and moves with changing weather and conditions. As the ground shifts with frost conditions and the like, the dirt will tend to move relative to the barrier as opposed to moving the barrier and distorting and shifting the same. Rodents may tend to dig and remove the earth from the area designated along the laterally outer side of the barrier wall. If the rodents dig downwardly a sufficient distance to reach the lower flange, the rodents will be inhibited from further direct passage and are unlikely to continue to dig laterally outwardly, in a direction as shown in the drawings.

As an alternative embodiment, the Bushong patent discusses the fact that during formation and shearing of the stainless steel mesh screen, terminal ends of the horizontal wires will project laterally outwardly beyond the two laterally outermost or marginal ones of the vertical wires and the terminal ends of the vertical wires may project vertically outwardly beyond the upper and lower marginal ones of the horizontal wires, thus resulting in sharp projections which could cause injury to the user during installation. To overcome this problem, the marginal edge portions, including the projections and lower terminal and side projections, and the marginal wires may be coated with a layer of plastic, which bonds to the stainless steel mesh along the vertical margins and the lower margin. The plastic coating protects users from being inadvertently “poked” by the side terminal and projections and lower terminal end projections. Bushong further discloses a process for coating or encapsulating the margins, which provides for temporarily dipping the lower marginal wires and the side marginal wires, and the side marginal projections and lower marginal projections into a liquid plastic bath. It should be noted that the uppermost marginal wire and uppermost adjacent projections are not encapsulated, so as to not interfere with the installation between the upstanding lip and the lower margin of the skirt panel.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with the invention, a barrier fence assembly is provided for preventing traverse of certain animals across a desired boundary below a ground surface. The barrier fence assembly is adapted to be coupled to an adjacent fence or other barrier having a substantial portion of the same extending a finite height above the ground surface. The barrier fence assembly includes a barrier fence body comprising a plurality of vertically disposed and elongated barrier stakes adapted to be spaced apart and sunk into earth below the ground surface. Further, each of the barrier stakes also includes an upper section which extends above the ground surface. The barrier fence body includes a horizontal support brace having an elongated configuration, and extending across a width of the barrier fence body. The horizontal support brace includes a top side and a bottom side, with a series of upper apertures extending through the top side, and a corresponding series of lower apertures extending through the bottom side. Upper sections of each of the barrier stakes extend through individual ones of the upper apertures and corresponding lower apertures. Still further, the barrier fence assembly includes coupling means for coupling the barrier fence body to the adjacent fence.

In accordance with further concepts associated with the invention, the coupling means for coupling the barrier fence body to the adjacent fence includes a series of coupling apertures, each of the apertures extending horizontally through a corresponding one of the barrier stakes within the upper sections of the stakes. The coupling apertures are positioned above a horizontal plane through which the horizontal support brace extends. Means extend through the coupling apertures for directly coupling the upper sections of the barrier stakes to the adjacent fence. In accordance with one aspect of the invention, the means extending through the coupling apertures can provide for releasable coupling of the barrier fence assembly to the adjacent fence. In accordance with further aspects of the invention, the means for releasably coupling can comprise flexible wire ties which are extended through the coupling apertures and around fencing elements of the adjacent fence. In one embodiment of the invention, the adjacent fence can be a wire mesh fence.

In other embodiments of the invention, the means extending through the coupling apertures can comprise a series of screws or bolts extending through materials which form elements of the adjacent fence. Still further, in accordance with these other embodiments, the adjacent fence can comprise a wooden slat fence. In this regard, the bolts or screws can comprise a series of tapered wood screws.

In accordance with further concepts of the invention, the vertically disposed and elongated barrier stakes can comprise a lowermost end having a downwardly tapered configuration. Each of the tapered ends of the barrier stakes can terminate as a lower most portion in a relatively sharp point.

Still further, the series of barrier stakes can comprise stakes of differing lengths. In this regard, the plurality of barrier stakes can comprise a first set of barrier stakes, each having a first length, and a second set of barrier stakes, each having a second length. The first set of barrier stakes can be alternately spaced apart with the second set of barrier stakes along a length of the horizontal support brace. Still further, the first length of the first set of barrier stakes can be one-half of the second length of the second set of barrier stakes.

In accordance with further aspects of the invention, each of the barrier stakes can further comprise a main body positioned below the upper section and integral with the upper section. Further, a lower end can be positioned below the main body and be integral therewith. Each of the lower ends can include a beveled or downwardly tapered configuration. Further, each of the main bodies can have a cross-sectional configuration substantially identical to cross-sectional configurations of the upper sections of the barrier stakes. Further, the cross-sectional configurations of the main body and the upper section of each of the barrier stakes can be cylindrical in shape. In addition, each of the barrier stakes can be constructed as a solid steel rod. In one embodiment of the invention, the main body of each of the barrier stakes can have a cross-sectional diameter of approximately 0.375 inches. Correspondingly, each of the lower ends of the barrier stakes can be of a longitudinal dimension of approximately 0.75 inches in length. In addition, each of the first set of barrier stakes can have an overall length of approximately 9.0 inches, while each of the second set of barrier stakes can have an overall length of approximately 18.0 inches. Each of the barrier stakes can also be spaced apart from adjacent ones of the barrier stakes within the barrier fence body by approximately 2.0 inches. Still further, each of the coupling apertures can have a diameter of approximately 5/32 inches. In addition, each of the upper sections of the barrier stakes can extend upwardly beyond the top side of the horizontal support brace for a vertical distance of approximately 1.25 inches. In addition, the horizontal support brace can comprise a square cross-sectional configuration, with each side of the cross-sectional configuration, including the top side and the bottom side, being of a dimension of approximately 0.75 inches.

In accordance with other concepts of the invention, the barrier fence assembly can be formed with a plurality of barrier fence bodies. The barrier fence bodies can be sized and configured so as to be stackable one on top of another in a relatively compact configuration. Still further, the barrier fence assembly can be characterized as modular in design, in that a size of the barrier fence assembly can be modified by adding or subtracting identical ones of the barrier fence bodies along an adjacent fence line. The barrier fence assembly formed with the series of barrier fence bodies can be configured so that the barrier fence bodies form a straight line configuration along the adjacent fence line. Still further, the barrier fence assembly can be configured so that at least two of the barrier fence bodies are angled relative to each other, or are otherwise in differing vertical planes.

In accordance with other aspects of the invention, the upper sections of the barrier stakes can be permanently connected to the horizontal support brace at the upper apertures and the lower apertures of the horizontal support brace. Still further, the barrier stakes can be permanently connected to the horizontal support brace through weldments located at the upper apertures and the lower apertures of the horizontal support brace.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING

FIG. 1 is a front right perspective view of an embodiment of a barrier fence assembly in accordance with the invention, and showing the barrier fence body releasably coupled to a conventional wire mesh fence having end ties and diamond-shaped openings;

FIG. 2 is a front elevation view of the barrier fence body shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a plan view of the barrier fence body shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a left-side end view of the barrier fence body shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is a side, sectional view of one of the barrier stakes as it has been received within a horizontal support brace, and further showing releasable coupling of the vertical barrier stake to the conventional wire mesh fence, taken along section lines 5-5 of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a front, right perspective view of a section of the barrier fence assembly shown in FIG. 1, and showing a pair of adjacent barrier rods as they are received within the horizontal support brace and as they are releasably coupled to the wire mesh fence, taken within circle VI of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the barrier fence, showing the relative positioning of the plurality of barrier fence stakes as they would be positioned so as to be received within apertures spaced along and through the horizontal support brace;

FIG. 8 is a front, right perspective view of the barrier fence assembly similar to that shown in FIG. 1, but showing use of the barrier fence assembly with a wooden slat fence.

FIG. 9 is a side, sectional view of the barrier fence assembly shown in FIG. 8, with the view of FIG. 9 being similar to that of FIG. 5, and showing an alternative method of coupling the barrier fence assembly to the slats of the wooden slat fence, with the view being taken along section lines 9-9 of FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is a front, right perspective view similar to that of FIG. 6, and showing a pair of adjacent barrier stakes as they are coupled to the wooden slat fence, with FIG. 10 corresponding to the view within the circle X of FIG. 8.

FIG. 11 is a front, upper perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the barrier fence assembly shown in FIG. 1 and showing the use of the barrier fence (without showing any adjacent, conventional fence in FIG. 11) with two sections which are positioned substantially perpendicular to each other; and

FIG. 12 is a front, right perspective view showing the barrier fence shown in FIG. 1, and showing its relative positioning within a ground surface, and further showing conventional animals such as dogs and moles, positioned in a manner so as to attempt to burrow under the barrier fence.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The principles of the invention are disclosed, by way of example, in two alternative embodiments of barrier fence assemblies as disclosed and illustrated herein. Specifically, one of the embodiments is barrier fence assembly 100 disclosed in subsequent paragraphs herein and illustrated in FIGS. 1-7, 11 and 12. A second and alternative embodiment of a barrier fence assembly in accordance with the invention is barrier fence assembly 200, also disclosed herein and illustrated in FIGS. 8, 9 and 10. Advantageously, barrier fences in accordance with the invention and as disclosed herein provide for and facilitate prevention of traverse across a desired boundary below a ground surface and through soils or other materials which are permeable to dogs, rodents (such as moles, groundhogs, etc.) and other creatures of similar size. In addition, barrier fence assemblies in accordance with the invention have the capability of being coupled (either permanently or releasably) to an existing structure that is primarily located above a ground surface (such as an above ground wire mesh fence or the like).

Still further, barrier fence assemblies in accordance with the invention can be selectively produced in a manner so as to provide for differences in not only width of the barrier assembly, but also the desired depth to which the barrier fence assembly extends below ground surface. Still further, barrier fence assemblies in accordance with the invention can provide for below ground surface barrier elements which vary in depth along a longitudinal and substantially horizontal length of the barrier assembly. In this same regard, the barrier fence assemblies in accordance with the invention can be manufactured and installed in a “modular” configuration. That is, the barrier fence assemblies can be manufactured and installed in individual barrier fence sections. If desired, the sections can be maintained separately or, alternatively, adjacent barrier fence sections can be releasably coupled together.

Still further, it should be noted that during the process of installation, the individual barrier fence sections can be installed in a manner such that two or more of the fence sections form a straight line configuration. Alternatively, the individual barrier fence sections can be set at both acute and obtuse angles relative to one another. In addition, even with the barrier fence sections angled relative to one another, the sections would still have the capability of having adjacent sections permanently or releasably coupled to one another.

In general, barrier fence assemblies in accordance with the invention can be characterized as underground fence systems and underground barrier systems. In addition, such systems can further be characterized as underground rodent control fencing systems. Further, in view of the use of the barrier fence assemblies below ground, the assemblies can be characterized as sub-barrier fence systems. Still further, in view of the capability of coupling of adjacent fence sections to one another, and the capability of releasably or permanently coupling the fence sections to an above ground fence or similar barrier system, the barrier fence assemblies in accordance with the invention can be characterized as comprising an underground interlocking fence system. Still further, and as will be apparent from subsequent description herein, the barrier fence assemblies in accordance with the invention can be characterized as self-installation, in ground or underground fence systems. In addition, based upon the particular materials used for the barrier fence assemblies, such assemblies can also be characterized as providing steel rod fencing for underground systems.

The barrier fence assembly 100 will now be described primarily with respect to FIGS. 1-7, 11 and 12. With reference first and primarily to FIGS. 1-4, the barrier fence assembly includes what can be characterized as a barrier fence body 102, shown in full perspective view in FIG. 1, and with front elevation, plan and one side or end views of the body 102 illustrated in FIGS. 2, 3 and 4, respectively. Primarily in FIGS. 1 and 6, the barrier fence assembly 100 is shown utilized with an above ground adjacent fence 104. Adjacent fence 104 can be any of a number of differing and commercially available fences. For example, the adjacent fence 104 illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 6 is typically characterized as a wire mesh fence. Such wire mesh fences are often used for residential yards, commercial facilities, and other sites where it is desired to have a sturdy above ground barrier, but also one which is relatively visually open and permits a person to see an area located on the other side of the fence from which the person is located. As shown primarily in FIG. 1, the adjacent fence 104 includes a series of crossing or intersecting adjacent fence wires 106. The adjacent fence wires 106 form spatial openings 107, with the openings taking a form dependent upon the particular crossing and/or interlocking of the adjacent fence wires 106. In the particular embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the spatial openings 107 take the form of diamond-shaped openings. These diamond-shaped openings or spatial openings 107 are formed by crossing or intersecting adjacent fence wires which essentially intersect at what can be characterized as looping locations 108. The looping locations 108 are sometimes manufactured merely with the adjacent fence wires 106 crossing at these locations. Alternatively, and as most often used, the looping locations 108 are formed by adjacent fence wires 106 twisting around each other or, in some instances, actually being secured together, such as by welding functions and the like. Also, it should be noted that the adjacent fence 104 will typically have vertically disposed stanchions or other types of supports for fixedly maintaining the adjacent fence 104 in a vertically disposed and upright position, as shown in FIG. 1. For purposes of clarity, and in view of such stanchions or other supports being well known and commercially available, the same are not shown in FIG. 1. However, it can be assumed that such stanchions or other supports would be spaced apart at regular intervals along the longitudinal length of the fence 104. Also, it should further be noted that the adjacent fence 104 would typically function solely as an above ground fence. That is, the fence 104 would not provide for any type of a barrier preventing animals from crossing the vertical plane of the fence 104, but below a ground surface 110. In some instances, the fence 104 may protrude downwardly below the ground surface 110, but only for less than an inch or two.

Although the adjacent fence 104 is shown as a wire mesh fence, it should be emphasized that barrier fence assemblies in accordance with the invention are not, in any manner, limited to use with above ground fence structures consisting of wire mesh fences or other fences specifically described herein. That is, the assemblies in accordance with the invention could be utilized with many different types of well-known and commercially available fences.

As earlier stated, the adjacent fence 104 will be utilized substantially above the ground surface 110. For purposes of the description, it is assumed that the materials below the ground surface 110 may consist of earth 112 or other types of soils. Further, the materials below the ground surface 110, and within which the barrier fence assembly 100 will be positioned, may consist of materials other than earth and soils or the like. For example, the fence assemblies in accordance with the invention may be utilized with the materials below the ground surface 110 consisting of sand, gravel, or other materials which certain animals may be capable of permeating or otherwise passing through.

Turning again primarily to FIGS. 1-4, the barrier fence body 102 includes a series of vertically disposed and elongated barrier stakes 114. The stakes 114 as shown in FIG. 1 comprise a first set of barrier stakes 116, and a second set of barrier stakes 118. In the particular embodiment of the barrier fence assembly 100 in accordance with the invention, the first set of barrier stakes 116 are alternately positioned with respect to adjacent ones of the second set of barrier stakes 118. That is, stakes 116 and 118 alternate along a longitudinal and horizontal axis of the assembly 100. Further, the first set of barrier stakes 116 include a main body 120 which has an elongated length and may have any number of different cross-sections, including rectangular, cylindrical or the like. The main body 120 of the barrier stakes 116 may be constructed integral with other portions of the first barrier stakes 116. In one embodiment familiar to the inventors, the main body 120, as well as the remainder of the first barrier stakes 116, may be constructed as a solid steel rod having the main body 120 with a cross-sectional diameter of 0.375 inches or the like. Correspondingly, each of the first barrier stakes 116 includes a beveled lower end 124, again primarily shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 4. This lower end 124 can have a beveled or tapered configuration which results in a point 132 at the lowermost end of the first barrier stakes 116. This beveled configuration with the relatively sharp end or lower point 132 facilitates insertion of the first barrier stakes 116 into the ground surface 110 and earth 112, or other materials which form the below ground area to which the barrier fence assembly 100 will be applied.

The upper portion of each of the first barrier stakes 116 includes an upper section 128 illustrated in substantial part in FIGS. 1, 2 and 4-7. The upper section 128 of each of the barrier stakes 116 can have a circular or other shape corresponding to the cross-sectional configuration of the corresponding main body 120. Also, the upper section 128 can be constructed substantially of a solid material, such as in the formation of a steel rod or the like. Notwithstanding the upper section 128 having a solid composition throughout, each of the upper sections 128 includes an aperture 136 which extends substantially perpendicular to the extension of the lateral surfaces of the upper sections 128, and extend entirely through the upper sections 128. The apertures may be formed through drilling of the same either prior to the barrier fence assembly 100 being positioned at its installation location, or at its manufacturing site. As will be described in subsequent paragraphs herein, apertures 136 are utilized to facilitate attachment of the barrier fence assembly 100 to the adjacent fence wires 106 of the adjacent fence 104.

In addition to the formation of the apertures 136 within the first barrier stakes 116, each of the first barrier stakes 116, as described in subsequent paragraphs herein, extends vertically through a horizontally disposed support brace 140. The support brace 140 may be constructed of steel or similar materials, and preferably has a substantially hollow interior. If desired, the support brace 140 may, like the barrier stakes 114, be constructed of steel materials. In the particular embodiment of the barrier fence assembly 100 described herein, and as specifically shown in FIGS. 1, 5 and 6, the support brace 140 can be of a substantially rectangular configuration. As further shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the support brace 140 can have what is characterized (solely for purposes of description) as an interior side 142 and an external side 144. The sides are designated as “interior” and “exterior” solely for purposes of illustration and orientation, and can be considered such that the interior side 142 is farthest away from the adjacent fence 104, while the exterior 144 is relatively closer in distance to the adjacent fence 104. Correspondingly, and with reference in particular to FIGS. 5 and 6, the horizontally disposed support brace 140 also includes what can be characterized as a top side or surface 146 and a bottom side or surface 148. Extending vertically through the top side 146 at spaced apart intervals are a series of upper apertures 150. Correspondingly, an equal number of lower apertures 152 are positioned through and spaced apart along the bottom side or surface 148 of the support brace 140. The upper apertures 150 and the lower apertures 152 preferably will each have a cylindrical configuration, corresponding to the shape of the cross-sections of the barrier stakes 114. In addition, the sizing of the upper apertures 150 and lower apertures 152 should be such that they are equal in diameter to each other and also to the outer diameter of the upper sections 128, 130 of the first barrier stakes 116 and second barrier stakes 118, respectively. Still further, the upper apertures 150 and lower apertures 152 should preferably be not only concentric with each other, but also be coaxial with each other. In practical effect, the diameters of the upper apertures 150 and lower apertures 152 should be slightly greater than the diameters of the barrier stakes 116 and 118. This is to facilitate the upper sections 128, 130 of the barrier stakes 116, 118, respectively, being received vertically through the apertures 150, 152.

More specifically, the barrier stakes 114 are extended through the upper apertures 150 and lower apertures 152 in a manner so that there is a portion of the upper sections 128 and 130 extending upwardly through and above the upper apertures 150. For purposes of securing the barrier stakes 114 to the support brace 140, weldments 154 can be utilized. More specifically, and as particularly shown in FIG. 5, the weldments 154 can consist of a set of upper weldments 156 which secure the support brace 140 to each of the barrier stakes 114 at the positions of the upper apertures 150. Correspondingly, a set of lower weldments 158 are utilized to secure and couple together the lower apertures 152 of the support brace 140 to the upper sections 128, 130 of the barrier stakes 114. Preferably, the formation of the weldments 154 is performed at the site of manufacture of the barrier fence assemblies 100.

As somewhat related in the prior paragraphs, the second set of barrier stakes 118 have a physical configuration substantially corresponding to the configuration of the first barrier stakes 116. However, and as made apparent in the illustrations, for example, of FIGS. 1, 2 and 4, the longitudinal lengths of the first barrier stakes 116 are substantially shorter than the longitudinal lengths of the second barrier stakes 118. In addition, and as shown in the drawings, the first barrier stakes 116 can be alternately positioned relative to the second barrier stakes 118, so that “every other” ones of the barrier stakes 114 correspond in length to each other. It is believed that this alternation of lengths of the individual barrier stakes 114 facilitates installation of the barrier fence assemblies 100 into the earth 112 or other below ground material. In addition, using certain ones of the barrier stakes 114 with relatively lesser lengths can reduce the overall weight and cost associated with the barrier fence assemblies 100.

Again referring to the elements of the first barrier stakes 116 compared to the second barrier stakes 118, the prior paragraphs refer to the main body 120 of the stakes 116. Corresponding main bodies 122 are associated with the stakes 118. In addition, and as earlier described, the barrier stakes 116 include beveled lower ends 124. Corresponding beveled lower ends 126 exist for the stakes 118. Also as previously described, the barrier stakes 114 include upper sections 128. Corresponding upper sections 130 exist for the barrier stakes 118. Still further, the first barrier stakes 116 include lowermost points 132 at the termination ends of the beveled lower ends 124. Correspondingly, the second barrier stakes 118 include lowermost points 134 positioned at the termination ends of the beveled lower ends 126 of the second barrier stakes 118.

As earlier stated, the support braces 140 and the barrier stakes 114 in accordance with the invention are not limited to the specific configurations or construction materials as described herein. Still further, the sizing of the barrier fence body 102 and the support brace 140 can also vary, without departing from the spirit and scope of the novel concepts of the invention. As an example of the sizing and construction materials, and again without limiting the scope of the invention, the support brace 140 can be constructed of a steel tubing. For example, this tubing may have a rectangular configuration and have a square cross-sectional orientation, with the sizing being 0.75 by 0.75 inches. Correspondingly, the barrier stakes 114 may be constructed as solid steel rods, with each of the first barrier stakes 116 and second barrier stakes 118 having a cylindrical cross-sectional configuration, with a diameter of 0.375 inches associated with the main bodies 120, 122 and the upper sections 128, 130. Each of the barrier stakes 114 may also have its corresponding beveled lower end 124 or 126 formed with the bevel or tapering occurring during the lowermost 0.75 inches of each of the stakes 114.

As also described, each of the barrier stakes 114 is welded to the top side 146 and the bottom side 148 of the support brace 140 at the locations of the upper apertures 150 and lower apertures 152. Again, however, other means of attachment can be utilized for the support braces 140 and barrier stakes 114, without departing from the novel concepts of the invention. Still further, with respect to the apertures 136 of the barrier stakes 116, and the apertures 138 of the barrier stakes 118, each may have a cylindrical configuration, with a diameter of five/32 inches.

In accordance with a substantial portion of the prior paragraphs, elements associated with the first barrier stakes 116 of the barrier stakes 114 were described. In addition to the elements of the first barrier stakes 116, the barrier stakes 114 also consist of the second barrier stakes 118, with corresponding elements. First, as made apparent from FIGS. 1, 2 and 7, the second set of barrier stakes 118 are relatively longer than the first set of barrier stakes 116. For example, in one experimental embodiment known to the inventors, the longitudinal length of each of the first set of barrier stakes 116 was approximately 9 inches. Correspondingly, the longitudinal and elongated length of the second set of barrier stakes 118 was approximately 18 inches. Although these dimensions represent one embodiment, it should be emphasized that the invention is not limited to any one specific set of lengths for the stakes 116, 118.

As earlier stated, the first set of barrier stakes 116 can be alternately positioned with respect to adjacent ones of the second set of barrier stakes 118. This configuration again is shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 7. That is, the stakes 116 and 118 alternate along a longitudinal and horizontal axis of the assembly 100. Further, the second set of barrier stakes 118 each include a main body 122 which has an elongated length and may have any number of different cross-sectional configurations, including rectangular, cylindrical or the like. The main body 122 of the barrier stakes 118 may be constructed integral with other portions of the second set of barrier stakes 118. In one embodiment familiar to the inventors, the main body, as well as the remainder of the second barrier stakes 118, may be constructed as a solid steel rod having the main body 122 with a cross-sectional diameter of 0.375 inches or the like. Correspondingly, and as with the first barrier stakes 116, each of the second barrier stakes 118 can include a beveled lower end 126, again primarily shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 4. This lower end 126 can have a beveled or tapered configuration which results in a point 134 at the lower most end of the second barrier stakes 118. This beveled configuration, with a relatively sharp end or lower point 134, facilitates insertion of the second barrier stakes 118 into the ground surface 110 and earth 112, or other materials which form the below ground area to which the barrier fence assembly 100 will be applied.

The upper portion of each of the second barrier stakes 118 includes an upper section 130 illustrated in substantial part in FIGS. 1, 2, and 4-7. This upper section 130 of each of the barrier stakes 118 can have a circular or other shape corresponding to the cross-sectional configuration of the corresponding main body 122. Also, the upper section 130 can be constructed substantially of a solid material, such as in the formation of a steel rod or the like. Notwithstanding the upper section 130 having a solid composition throughout, each of the upper sections 128 includes an aperture 138 which extends substantially perpendicular to the extension of the lateral surfaces of the upper sections 130, and extend entirely through the upper sections 130. The apertures 138 may be formed through drilling of the same either prior to the barrier fence assembly 100 being positioned at its installation location, or, alternatively, preferably at the site of manufacture of the barrier fence assembly 100. As will be described in subsequent paragraphs herein, the apertures 138 can be utilized to facilitate attachment of the barrier fence assembly 100 to the adjacent fence wires 106 of the adjacent fence 104.

In addition to the formation of the apertures 138 within the second barrier stakes 118, each of the second barrier stakes 118, as described in subsequent paragraphs herein, extends vertically through the horizontally disposed support brace 140, in the same manner as the first barrier stakes 116. Also, as previously described, the support brace 140 may be constructed of steel or similar materials, and preferably has a substantially hollow interior.

The details for the structure of the support brace 140 have been described in previous paragraphs herein, and will not be repeated for the relative coupling and structural relationships between the horizontal support brace 140 and the second barrier stakes 118, in view of the fact that this relationship between the stakes 118 and support brace 140 is substantially identical to the relationship between the first barrier stakes 116 and the horizontal support brace 140.

That is, each of the second barrier stakes 118 extend vertically through the horizontally disposed support brace 140. In the particular embodiment shown herein, the support brace 140 is of a substantially rectangular configuration with the interior side 142 and exterior side 144. The interior side 142 can be characterized as farthest away from the adjacent fence 104, while the exterior side 144 is relatively closer in distance to the adjacent fence 104. As also previously described, the horizontally disposed support brace includes what could be characterized as a top side or surface 146, and a bottom side or surface 148. Extending through the top side 146 at spaced apart intervals are a series of upper apertures 150. Correspondingly, an equal number of lower apertures 152 are positioned through and spaced apart along the bottom side of surface 148 of the support brace 140. The upper apertures 150 and the lower apertures 152 preferably have cylindrical configurations, corresponding to the shapes of the cross-sections of the barrier stakes 116 and 118. In addition, the sizing of the upper apertures 150 and lower apertures 152 should be such that they are equal in diameter to each other, and also to the outer diameter of the upper sections 128, 130 of the first barrier stakes 116 and second barrier stakes 118, respectively. Still further, the upper apertures 150 and lower apertures 152 are preferably not only concentric with each other, but also coaxial with each other. In practical effect, the diameters of the upper apertures 150 and lower apertures 152 should be slightly greater than the diameters of the barrier stakes 118. This is to facilitate the upper sections 130 of the barrier stakes 118 to be readily received vertically through the apertures 150, 152.

More specifically, the barrier stakes 118 are extended through the upper apertures 150 and lower apertures 152 in a manner so that there is a portion of the upper sections 130 extending upwardly through and above the upper apertures 150. For purposes of securing the barrier stakes 118 to the support brace 140, and as with the barrier stakes 116, weldments 154 can be utilized to secure the barrier stakes 118 to the support bracket 140. As particularly shown in FIG. 5, the weldments 154 can consist of a set of upper weldments 156 which secures the support brace to each of the barrier stakes 118 at the positions of the upper apertures 150. Correspondingly, a set of lower weldments 158 are utilized to secure and couple together the lower apertures 152 of the support brace 140 to the upper sections 130 of the barrier stakes 118. As also earlier stated, the formation of the weldments 154 is preferably performed at the site of manufacture of the barrier fence assemblies 100.

As also earlier described, the particular length of the barrier stakes 116, 118 in accordance with the invention, are not limited to any particular dimension. Further, the space between the barrier stakes 114 may be such that the stakes 114 are equidistant from adjacent ones of the barrier stakes 114. Alternatively, the spacing of the barrier stakes 114 can be varied along the longitudinal length of the barrier assemblies 100. Still further, distances or widths between like barrier stakes 116 and like barrier stakes 118 can be made equal across the longitudinal length of the assembly 100. Alternatively, these widths between adjacent ones of like kinds of the barrier stakes 114 can differ along the length of the fence assembly 100. For example, in one experimental embodiment undertaken by the inventors, the widths between adjacent ones of the barrier stakes 114 was 2.0 in inches, and was made constant throughout the length of the fence assembly 100. Correspondingly, the distance between like ones of the barrier stakes 114 (i.e. the distance between barrier stakes 116 and the distance between barrier stakes 118) can be made constant at 4.0 inches. Still further, the overall length of the barrier stakes 116 and 118 can be varied across the fence assembly 100. Alternatively, and if desired, each of the barrier stakes 116 can be made equal in length to each of the others of the barrier stakes 116. Correspondingly, each of the barrier stakes 118 can be made equal in length to the others of the barrier stakes 118. In experimental embodiment developed by the inventors, the overall length of the barrier stakes 116 were 9.0 inches. Correspondingly, the overall length of the barrier stakes 118 were 18.0 inches. In addition, the length of each of the beveled lower ends 124 and 126 were made equal to each other in one experimental embodiment, with the length of each beveled section being 0.75 inches. As previously described, each of the beveled lower ends 124 and 126 are beveled to a relatively sharp point 132 and 134, respectively.

Still further, and without departing from the spirit and scope of the novel concepts of the invention, the specific dimensions, including length and overall cross-sectional dimensions of the support brace 140 can be varied. In an experimental embodiment developed by the inventors, the overall length of the support brace 140 in the longitudinal direction was 33.0 inches. Further, the cross section of the support brace 140 was in the form of a rectangular tube. With this tube, the interior side 142 and exterior side 144 each measured 0.75 inches. Correspondingly, the top side 146 and bottom side or surface 148 of the support brace 140 also each measured 0.75 inches. In addition, with respect to the relative location of the support brace 140 along the barrier stakes 114, the distance from the upper weldments 156 to the top of each of the barrier stakes 114 was, in the experimental embodiment, equal to approximately 1.25 inches. Again, it should be emphasized that these dimensions can be modified without departing from the novel concepts of the invention.

With the barrier fence body 102 positioned adjacent the adjacent fence 104, and with the barrier fence body 102 being assembled on-site or at the manufacture site, the barrier fence body 102 can then be forced into the earth 112 beneath the ground surface 110 at a position relatively close to the adjacent fence 104. Such configuration is illustrated in FIG. 1, as well as in FIGS. 6 and 7. The barrier fence body 102 can be positioned beneath the ground surface 110 at a depth as considered desirable by the installers or users. Preferably, however, the barrier fence body 102 should be sized and configured relative to the desired depth to which the barrier stakes 114 will be sunk. This desired depth should be one where the support brace 140 remains above ground, as particularly shown in FIGS. 5 and 6. Correspondingly, the apertures 136 of the barrier stakes 116, and the apertures 138 of the barrier stakes 118, should correspondingly be maintained above the ground surface 110 at a height that facilitates accessibility to the installer or user. This accessibility is required not only to sink the barrier fence body 102 below the ground surface 110, but also to releasably couple the entirety of the barrier fence assembly 100 to the adjacent fence 104. For this purpose, a set of wire ties 160 can be utilized. The t can be constructed of flexible steel, plastic, coated paper or other materials which are manually manipulable by an installer or user (and yet still have sufficient rigidity when coupled to the adjacent fence 104), so that installers and users can decouple or otherwise disconnect the adjacent fence 104 from the barrier fence assembly 100 when desired. The coupling for interconnection of the barrier fence assembly 100 through the use of the ties 160 is particularly shown in FIGS. 1, 5 and 6. FIG. 5 illustrates a tie 160 being manipulated and received through an aperture 136 of a barrier stake 116. Correspondingly, FIG. 6 illustrates ties 160 being received through an aperture 136 of a barrier stake 116, as well as a second tie 160 being received through the aperture 138 of an adjacent one of the barrier stakes 118. When received through the apertures 136 and 138, the ties 160 can then be received between various ones of the adjacent fence wires 106 and through the spatial openings 107. The ties 160 can then be manually twisted or otherwise tied so as to provide for a relatively secure coupling of the barrier fence assembly 100 to the adjacent fence 104. One advantage in accordance with certain aspects of the invention associated with the barrier fence assemblies 100 is the capability of obtaining the requisite ties 160 in a commercially and readily available manner, in the form of twist ties or mesh fence ties which can be found at many retail hardware stores and “big box” establishments.

FIG. 7 is an exploded view showing the barrier fence body 102, with the barrier stakes 116, 118 removed from the horizontal support brace 140. The position shown in FIG. 7 of the relative elements would be the position of these elements during manufacture or other assembly of the barrier fence body 102, where the barrier stakes 116 and 118 are positioned so as to be received through the upper apertures 150 and lower apertures 152 within the support brace 140.

Another embodiment of a barrier fence assembly in accordance with the invention is described in subsequent paragraphs herein as barrier fence assembly 200, illustrated primarily in FIGS. 8, 9 and 10. As earlier stated, the barrier fence bodies of assemblies in accordance with the invention can be utilized with not only wire mesh fences as described in prior paragraphs herein, but also with various other types of fence assemblies.

With reference to FIGS. 8, 9 and 10, a barrier fence assembly 200 is illustrated with a barrier fence body 202. The barrier fence body 202 has a number of elements which are substantially identical to corresponding elements of the barrier fence assembly 100 and barrier fence body 102. For example, the barrier fence body 202, like the barrier fence body 102, includes barrier stakes 114 comprising a first set of barrier stakes 116, and an alternating second set of barrier stakes 118. The barrier stakes 116, 118 include main bodies 120, 122 and beveled lower ends 124, 126, respectively. In addition, the first barrier stakes 116 include an upper section 128, while a second set of barrier stakes 118 include upper sections 130. The beveled lower ends 124 of the stakes 116 terminate in a point 132, while the lower ends 126 of the barrier stakes 118 terminate in a point 134.

The barrier fence bodies 202 further comprise a support brace 140, having an interior side 142 and exterior side 144. The brace 140 also includes a top side 146 and bottom side 148. Still further, the brace 140 includes upper apertures 150, and lower apertures 152 spaced apart a distance as desired between the barrier stakes 114. The stakes 114 are secured to the support brace 140 through weldments 154.

In addition to the foregoing elements, the barrier fence assembly 200 includes a set of horizontally disposed apertures 204 extending through the top ends of each of the barrier stakes 116 and 118. More specifically, a first set of apertures 206 extends through the first set of barrier stakes 116, while a second set of apertures 208 extends through a second set of barrier stakes 118. To install, the barrier stakes 116, 118 are positioned with a barrier fence body 202 so that the stakes 116, 118 are positioned substantially flush with the corresponding fence 216. More specifically, in the embodiment shown with barrier fence assembly 200, a wooden slat fence 216 is illustrated, again with respect to FIGS. 8, 9 and 10. The wooden slat fence 216 can be any of a number of fences which, unlike the wire mesh fence discussed earlier, the wooden slat fence 216 is adapted for use where additional visual privacy is desired, compared to the previously described wire mesh fence, which utilizes spatial openings which allow a substantially clear view from one side of the fence to another.

The wooden slat fence 216 comprises a set of substantially identical slats 218, with the slats 218 being vertically disposed and essentially adjacent to each other, with narrow openings between adjacent slats 218. The slats can be coupled together through the use of horizontally disposed cross pieces 220, as well as vertically disposed spikes or similar elements (not shown) which can be connected to the slats 218 and can be positioned as desired for location of the wooden slat fence 216.

In distinction of the barrier fence assembly 200 relative to the previously described barrier fence assembly 100, the means for releasably securing together barrier fence assembly 200 is somewhat more sophisticated with respect to the means for releasably coupling the barrier fence assembly 200 to the slats 218 of the wooden slat fence 216. More specifically, the longitudinal position of the apertures 204 is substantially horizontal when each of the barrier stakes 116, 118 is mounted substantially flush with a face of the slats 218 of the wooden slat fence 216. When the barrier fence assembly 200 has been appropriately mounted relative to the wooden slat fence 216, the barrier fence body 202 can then be driven into the earth 112. When the stakes 116, 118 have been driven a sufficient distance into the earth 112, the individual slats 116, 118 can be separately and releasably secured to the slats 218. Specifically, connectors 210 (which may be in the form of a flathead wood screw or the like) can be received through each of the first set of apertures 206 and the second apertures 208 associated with the barrier stakes 116, 118, respectively. With the connectors 210 received through the apertures 206, 208, the connectors 210 each include a smooth section 212. The connectors 210 are dimensioned so that when the connectors 210 are fully received within the apertures 206, 208, the smooth section 212 is positioned substantially in the middle of each of the apertures 206, 208. Correspondingly, with the connectors 210 having a threaded section 214 with a screw-like taper, they can be utilized to drill into each of the slats 218 and rigidly couple the connector 210 to the wooden slat fence 216. With this coupling, and with the connectors 210 being assumed to be a threaded screw or the like, the connectors 210 (and the correspondingly coupled stakes 116, 118) will be rigidly coupled together with the fence 216.

As with other embodiments described herein, the barrier fence assembly 200 is not necessarily limited to the specific embodiment described herein. For example, it could be in the form of something other than the use of wooden slats. Further, the previous paragraphs described concepts associated with coupling the barrier fence assembly. For example, the wire ties 160 utilized with the barrier fence assembly 100 could be replaced by some other type of connecting means, or the like. With respect to the barrier fence assembly 100, it would be best to utilize some type of a tie or connection which would not impair the view from one side of the fence to another. Still other elements could be substituted for those described herein, without departing from the spirit and scope of the novel concepts of the invention.

Still further, an advantageous concept associated with barrier fence assemblies in accordance with the invention can be formed as elongated structures of variable length by installing the barrier fence assembly with two or more barrier fence bodies adjacent to each other. With such configuration, the entirety of the barrier fence assembly 100, comprising two or more barrier fence bodies 102, can be structured for any desired length. Still further, while the barrier fence bodies 102 may be aligned in a straight line configuration, the barrier fence bodies 102 may also be positioned in an angled configuration. Such an angled configuration, forming a corner section, is shown in FIG. 11 for a plurality of the barrier fence bodies 102. In fact, any number of different patterns of a barrier fence assembly 100 can be constructed by positioning individual barrier fence bodies 102 in differing vertical planes.

In addition to use as a barrier fence assembly, the embodiments described herein could be utilized for other purposes where a below ground barrier would be of substantial benefit, independent of preventing burrowing dogs and various rodents from crossing a below ground boundary. In particular, barrier fence assemblies in accordance with the invention are almost entirely below ground, and do not waste materials and costs with elements which do not provide the below ground feature. Further barrier fence assemblies in accordance with the invention can vary in width and depth. In addition, barrier elements other than the stakes and the lengths of horizontal support braces can also vary, even within a single barrier system. In particular, the barrier fence assemblies in accordance with the invention have the advantage of being modular. Additionally, no sophisticated tools are required for purposes of installation of the barrier fence assemblies.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the pertinent arts that other embodiments of barrier fences in accordance with the invention can be designed. That is, the principles of barrier fences in accordance with the invention are not limited to the specific embodiment described herein. Accordingly, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications and other variations of the above-described illustrative embodiment of the invention may be effected without departing from the spirit and scope of the novel concept of the invention.

Claims

1. A barrier fence assembly for preventing traverse of certain animals across a desired boundary below a ground surface, said barrier fence assembly being adapted to be coupled to an adjacent fence or other barrier having a substantial portion extending a finite height above said ground surface, said barrier fence assembly comprising:

a barrier fence body comprising a plurality of vertically disposed and elongated barrier stakes adapted to be spaced apart and sunk into earth below said ground surface, each of said barrier stakes having an upper section extending above said ground surface;

said barrier fence body further comprising a horizontal support brace having an elongated configuration extending across a width of said barrier fence body;

said horizontal support brace having a top side and a bottom side, with a plurality of upper apertures extending through said top side and a corresponding plurality of lower apertures extending through said bottom side;

said upper sections of each of said barrier stakes extending through individual ones of said upper apertures and said corresponding lower apertures; and

said barrier fence assembly further comprises coupling means for coupling said barrier fence body to said adjacent fence.

2. A barrier fence assembly in accordance with claim 1, characterized in that said coupling means for coupling said barrier fence body to said adjacent fence comprises:

a plurality of coupling apertures, each of said apertures extending horizontally through a corresponding one of said barrier stakes within said upper section thereof, and positioned above a horizontal plane through which said horizontal support brace extends; and

means extending through said coupling apertures for directly coupling said upper sections of said barrier stakes to said adjacent fence.

3. A barrier fence assembly in accordance with claim 2, characterized in that said means extending through said coupling apertures provides for releasable coupling of said barrier fence assembly to said adjacent fence.

4. A barrier fence assembly in accordance with claim 3, characterized in that said means for releasably coupling comprises flexible wire ties which are extended through said coupling apertures and around fencing elements of said adjacent fence.

5. A barrier fence assembly in accordance with claim 4, characterized in that said adjacent fence is a wire mesh fence.

6. A barrier fence assembly in accordance with claim 2, characterized in that said means extending through said coupling apertures comprise a series of screws or bolts extending through materials which form elements of said adjacent fence.

7. A barrier fence assembly in accordance with claim 6, characterized in that said adjacent fence comprises a wooden slat fence.

8. A barrier fence assembly in accordance with claim 7, characterized in that said bolts or screws comprise a series of tapered wood screws.

9. A barrier fence assembly in accordance with claim 1, characterized in that said vertically disposed and elongated barrier stakes each comprise a lowermost end having a downwardly tapered configuration.

10. A barrier fence assembly in accordance with claim 9, characterized in that each of said tapered ends of said barrier stakes terminates at its lowermost portion in a relatively sharp point.

11. A barrier fence assembly in accordance with claim 1, characterized in that said plurality of barrier stakes comprise stakes of differing lengths.

12. A barrier fence assembly in accordance with claim 11, characterized in that said plurality of barrier stakes comprise a first set of barrier stakes, each having a first length, and a second set of barrier stakes, each having a second length.

13. A barrier fence assembly in accordance with claim 12, characterized in that said first set of barrier stakes are alternately spaced apart with said second set of barrier stakes along a length of said horizontal support brace.

14. A barrier fence assembly in accordance with claim 12, characterized in that said first length of said first set of barrier stakes is one-half of said second length of said second set of barrier stakes.

15. A barrier fence assembly in accordance with claim 1, characterized in that:

each of said barrier stakes further comprises a main body positioned below said upper section and integral with said upper section, and a lower end positioned below said main body and integral therewith;

each of said lower ends comprises a beveled or downwardly tapered configuration; and

each of said main bodies has a cross-sectional configuration substantially identical to cross-sectional configurations of said upper sections of said barrier stakes.

16. A barrier fence assembly in accordance with claim 15, characterized in that said cross-sectional configurations of said main body and said upper section of each of said barrier stakes are cylindrical in shape.

17. A barrier fence assembly in accordance with claim 16, characterized in that each of said barrier stakes is constructed as a solid steel rod.

18. A barrier fence assembly in accordance with claim 17, characterized in that:

said main body of each of said barrier stakes has a cross-sectional diameter of approximately 0.375 inches;

each of said lower ends of said barrier stakes is of a longitudinal dimension of approximately 0.75 inches in length; and

each of said first set of barrier stakes has an overall length of approximately 9.0 inches, while each of said second set of barrier stakes has an overall length of approximately 18.0 inches.

19. A barrier fence assembly in accordance with claim 17, characterized in that each of said barrier stakes is spaced apart from adjacent ones of said barrier stakes by approximately 2.0 inches.

20. A barrier fence assembly in accordance with claim 17, characterized in that each of said coupling apertures is of a diameter of approximately 5/32 inches.

21. A barrier fence assembly in accordance with claim 17, characterized in that each of said upper sections of said barrier stakes extends upwardly beyond the said top side of said horizontal brace a vertical distance of approximately 1.25 inches.

22. A barrier fence assembly in accordance with claim 17, characterized in that said horizontal support brace comprises a square cross-sectional configuration, with each side of said cross-sectional configuration, including said top side and said bottom side, being of a dimension of approximately 0.75 inches.

23. A barrier fence assembly in accordance with claim 1, characterized in that:

said barrier fence assembly can be formed with a plurality of said barrier fence bodies; and

said barrier fence bodies are sized and configured so as to be stackable one on top of the other in a relatively compact configuration.

24. A barrier fence assembly in accordance with claim 1, characterized in that:

said barrier fence assembly can be formed with a plurality of said barrier fence bodies; and

said barrier fence assembly is modular in design in that a size of said barrier fence assembly can be modified by adding or subtracting identical ones of said barrier fence bodies adjacent to an adjacent fence line.

25. A barrier fence assembly in accordance with claim 24, characterized in that said barrier fence assembly formed with a plurality of barrier fence bodies is configured so that said barrier fence bodies form a straight line configuration along said adjacent fence line.

26. A barrier fence assembly in accordance with claim 24, characterized in that said barrier fence assembly formed with a plurality of barrier fence bodies is configured so that at least two of said barrier fence bodies are angled relative to each other or are otherwise in differing vertical planes.

27. A barrier fence assembly in accordance with claim 1, characterized in that said upper sections of said barrier stakes are permanently connected to said horizontal support brace at said upper apertures and said lower apertures of said horizontal support brace.

28. A barrier fence assembly in accordance with claim 27, characterized in that said barrier stakes are permanently connected to said horizontal support brace at weldments located at said upper apertures and said lower apertures of said horizontal support brace.