FENCE COVER AND FENCE COVER KIT

Abstract

A fence cover includes a first panel, a second panel, and first and second posts. Each post has a respective first post panel and a respective second post panel that define a respective channel that extends through a respective post. The respective channel is configured to receive a fence. The first panel is mechanically coupled to the respective first post panels of the first and second posts. The second panel is mechanically coupled to the respective second post panels of the first and second posts. The first and second panels define a sleeve that is configured to receive the fence.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

This application relates generally to fences.

BACKGROUND

Fences can become rusted, broken, and/or degraded over time. While it would be aesthetically desirably to replace an old fence, it can be cost-prohibitive to do so. It would be desirable to find a less-expensive solution to improve the aesthetic appearance of an old fence.

SUMMARY

Example embodiments described herein have innovative features, no single one of which is indispensable or solely responsible for their desirable attributes. The following description and drawings set forth certain illustrative implementations of the disclosure in detail, which are indicative of several exemplary ways in which the various principles of the disclosure may be carried out. The illustrative examples, however, are not exhaustive of the many possible embodiments of the disclosure. Without limiting the scope of the claims, some of the advantageous features will now be summarized. Other objects, advantages and novel features of the disclosure will be set forth in the following detailed description of the disclosure when considered in conjunction with the drawings, which are intended to illustrate, not limit, the invention.

An aspect of the invention is directed to a fence cover comprising a first panel; a second panel; and first and second posts, each post having a respective first post panel and a respective second post panel that define a respective channel that extends through a respective post, the respective channel configured to receive a fence, wherein: the first panel is mechanically coupled to the respective first post panels of the first and second posts, the second panel is mechanically coupled to the respective second post panels of the first and second posts, and the first and second panels define a sleeve that is configured to receive the fence.

In one or more embodiments, the fence cover further comprises a respective post cap attached to each post. In one or more embodiments, the fence cover further comprises a cover rail mounted on the first and second panels. In one or more embodiments, the cover rail is mechanically coupled to the first and second posts.

In one or more embodiments, the fence cover further comprises a railing mechanically coupled to the first and second posts, the cover rail between the railing and the first and second panels. In one or more embodiments, a gap is defined between the railing and the cover rail. In one or more embodiments, the fence cover further comprises one or more lights mounted on the railing. In one or more embodiments, the fence cover further comprises one or more photovoltaic devices mounted on the railing; and a battery disposed within the railing, the battery electrically coupled to the photovoltaic device(s) and the light(s).

In one or more embodiments, a plurality of fasteners mechanically couple the first and second panels to the fence. In one or more embodiments, the fence cover further comprises an expanding adhesive foam disposed in the sleeve to adhere the first and second panels to the fence. In one or more embodiments, the adhesive foam is further disposed in the respective channel of each post to adhere the respective first and second post panels of each post to the fence. In one or more embodiments, first and second liquid reservoirs and a mixing chamber are defined between the first and second panels, the first and second liquid reservoirs configured to hold first and second liquids, respectively, that form the expanding adhesive foam when the first and second liquids are mixed in the mixing chamber, the mixing chamber fluidly coupled to the first and second liquid reservoirs to receive the first and second liquids therefrom.

Another aspect of the invention is directed to a modular fence cover comprising: a plurality of panel pairs of first and second panels; and a plurality of posts, each post having a respective first post panel and a respective second post panel that define a respective channel that extends through a respective post, the respective channel configured to receive a fence, wherein: a respective first panel of each panel pair is mechanically coupled to the respective first post panel of respective first and second posts, a respective second panel of each panel pair is mechanically coupled to a respective second post panel of the respective first and second posts, and each panel pair defines a respective sleeve that is configured to receive the fence.

In one or more embodiments, the modular fence cover further comprises a plurality of cover rails, each cover rail mounted on a respective panel pair. In one or more embodiments, the modular fence cover further comprises a plurality of railings mechanically coupled to the respective first and second posts, each cover rail between a respective railing and the respective first and second panels.

Another aspect of the invention is directed to a kit for a modular fence cover, comprising: a plurality of panel pairs of first and second panels; and a plurality of posts, each post having a respective first post panel and a respective second post panel define a respective channel that extends through a respective post, the respective channel configured to receive a fence, wherein: a respective first panel of each panel pair is configured to be mechanically coupled to a respective first post panel of respective first and second posts, a respective second panel of each panel pair is configured to be mechanically coupled to a respective second post panel of the respective first and second posts, and when (a) the respective first panel of each panel pair is mechanically coupled to the respective first post panel of respective first and second posts and (b) the respective second panel of each panel pair is mechanically coupled to the respective second post panel of the respective first and second posts, each panel pair defines a respective sleeve that is configured to receive the fence.

In one or more embodiments, the kit further comprises one or more containers of a liquid that is configured to form an expanding adhesive foam to adhere the respective first and second panels of each panel pair to the fence. In one or more embodiments, the kit further comprises one or more containers of fasteners to secure the modular fence cover to the fence. In one or more embodiments, one of the plurality of posts is an end post, the end post including an end post panel that is mechanically coupled to a first post panel and a second post panel of the end post. In one or more embodiments, the kit further comprises a corner post having a first corner post panel that is mechanically coupled to a second corner post panel, the first and second corner post panel mutually orthogonal with respect to each other so as to define a corner channel to receive a corner of the fence.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a fuller understanding of the nature and advantages of the concepts disclosed herein, reference is made to the detailed description of preferred embodiments and the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a modular decorative fence cover 10 according to an embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the modular decorative fence cover illustrated in FIG. 1 with an additional fence cover section.

FIG. 3 is a front view of the fence cover according to an embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a front view of the fence cover according to another embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a top view of the railing illustrated in FIG. 4 according to an embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a top view of the fence cover according to another embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a top view of another fence cover according to an embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the fence cover illustrated in FIG. 3 according to an embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a bottom view of the fence cover illustrated in FIG. 8 according to an embodiment.

FIG. 10 is an example illustration of a rotatable plunger according to an embodiment.

FIG. 11 is an example illustration of a spring wheel according to an embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the fence cover illustrated in FIG. 3 according to another embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a post according to an embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a top view of a slidable shelf according to an embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a top view of the fence cover according to another embodiment.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a corner section of the fence cover according to an embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a front perspective view of a modular decorative fence cover according to another embodiment.

FIG. 18 is a rear perspective view of the modular decorative fence cover illustrated in FIG. 17.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a post and a panel section according to an embodiment.

FIGS. 20 and 21 are perspective view of different configurations of the post and panel section illustrated in FIG. 19.

FIG. 22 is an example illustration of a pin.

FIG. 23 is a block diagram of a fence-cover kit according to an embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A modular fence cover is configured to be placed over and secured to an existing fence. The modular fence cover obscures the existing fence, which can be a chain-link fence or one that lacks aesthetic value and can be a less-expensive option to replacing the existing fence.

The modular fence cover includes a plurality of posts and a plurality of pairs of front and back panels. Each post includes two or more post panels that define a channel in the post. The channel can be axial or linear to form a middle post or an end post or can be angled to form a corner post. The channel is configured to receive and a portion of a pre-existing fence and/or a pre-existing fence post (in general, pre-existing fence).

The front and back panels are mechanically coupled to neighboring posts, such as to the post panels. The front and back panels are spaced apart to form a sleeve that can fit over and receive the pre-existing fence. The front and back panels are sized to form a visual barrier to obscure or hide the pre-existing fence. At the posts, the pre-existing fence is obscured by the post panels and/or by the front and back panels that are mechanically coupled to the posts.

The modular fence cover can be secured to the pre-existing fence using fasteners and/or an expanding adhesive foam. Various aesthetic additions can be added to the modular fence such as a cover rail that can be mounted on the front and back panels to cover the top of the sleeve, a railing that can be mechanically coupled to neighboring posts, and/or post caps attached to the top of each post. The railing can include lights that can be solar powered through an internal battery that is rechargeable with one or more photovoltaic devices that are mounted on the railing.

The modular fence cover can be sold as a kit that includes the individual components of the modular fence cover in unassembled form. For example, the kit can include front panels, back panels, and posts that can be assembled to form the modular fence cover. In another example, the kit can include a plurality of assembled sections of the modular fence cover that can placed on the pre-existing fence and mechanically coupled to each other.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a modular decorative fence cover 10 according to an embodiment. The fence cover 10 includes a front or first panel 101, a back or second panel 102, a first post 110, and a second post 120. The front panel 101, the back panel 102, the first post 110, and the second post 120 can comprise a modular section 160 of the fence cover 10. Posts 110, 120 can alternately be referred to as middle posts. The modular section 160 can be sold as an assembled unit or the modular section 160 can be sold as individual components or subsections that can be assembled by the user.

Each post 110, 120 includes a front post panel 111, 121 and a back post panel 112, 122, respectively. The front post panel 111 is oriented parallel to or substantially parallel to (e.g., within about 5° or less) the back post panel 112. The front post panel 111, 121 and the back post panel 112, 122 of each post 110, 120 define a respective gap, hollow region, or channel (in general, channel) 115, 125 that is configured and/or sized to receive and/or enclose a portion of a fence 150. Each channel 115, 125 has a depth 118, 128 that can be measured with respect to a first axis 161 that is orthogonal to a plane defined each of the front and back post panels 111, 112, 121, 122. For example the plane can be defined by an interior surface 123 of the back post panel 122. It is noted that in other embodiments the front and/or back post panels 111, 112, 121, 122 can be curved so that the posts 110 and/or 120 are cylindrical or another shape.

Each post 110, 120 is preferably identical or substantially identical. For example, each channel 115, 125 can have the same depth 118, 128. Additionally or alternatively, each post panel 111, 112, 121, 122 can have the same or substantially the same (e.g., within about 5% or less) dimensions, such as with respect to the first axis 161, with respect to a second axis 162 that is orthogonal to the first axis 161, and/or with respect to a third axis 163 that is orthogonal to the first and second axis 161, 162.

The panels 101, 102 extend from the first post 110 to the second post 120. The front panel 101 is mechanically coupled to the front post panel 111 on the first post 110 and to the front post panel 121 on the second post 120. The back panel 102 is mechanically coupled to the back post panel 112 on the first post 110 and to the back post panel 122 on the second post 120. The panels 101, 102 are separated from each other and define a sleeve 130 to receive and/or enclose a portion of the fence 150. The sleeve 130 has a depth 132 that can be measured along or with respect to the first axis 161. The depth 132 of the sleeve 130 can be the same as the depth 118, 128 of each channel 115, 125.

In the illustrated embodiment, the height of the posts 110, 120 is greater than the height of the panels 101, 102, where the height is measured with respect to the third axis 163. This difference in height can be for aesthetic purposes and/or to provide space to add one or more accessories to the fence cover 10. Examples of these accessories are described herein. Optional side panels 140 can be mechanically coupled to the posts 110, 120 to cover the exposed portion of the channel 115, 125 that extends above the panels 101, 102. In FIG. 1, the side panels 140 are illustrated on the first post 110 only for illustration purposes only.

The fence cover 10 is preferably constructed of an opaque material so as to obscure the fence 150 from view. For purposes of illustration only, the fence cover 10 is illustrated as partially-transparent. In some embodiments, the fence cover 10 can comprise or consist of a vinyl material (e.g., polyvinyl chloride (PVC)), polypropylene, and/or another plastic material. In other embodiments, the fence cover 10 can comprise or consist of metal, wood, and/or another material. The fence cover 10 can comprise or consist of two or more of the materials described herein.

The fence cover 10 can be modularly constructed to cover the entire length or perimeter of a fence. For example, FIG. 2 illustrates the fence cover 10 with an additional section 260 compared to FIG. 1. The additional section 260 can be the same as section 160 but sections 160, 260 share a common post 110. In other embodiments, sections 160, 260 do not share a common post. The modular section 260 can be sold as an assembled unit or the modular section 260 can be sold as individual components or subsections that can be assembled by the user.

The additional section 260 includes a third post 210, a second front panel 201, and a second back panel 202. The front panels 101, 201 and back panels 102, 202 can be referred to panel pairs or pairs of panels. Thus, the fence cover 10 includes a plurality of panel pairs or a plurality of pairs of panels.

The first post 110 is shared by each section 160, 260. The second front panel 201 is mechanically coupled to a front post panel 211 on the third post 210 and to the front post panel 111 on the first post 110. The second back panel 202 is mechanically coupled to a back post panel 212 on the third post 210 and to the back post panel 112 on the first post 110. The panels 201, 202 are separated from each other and define a sleeve 230 to receive and/or enclose a portion of the fence 150. Sleeve 230 can be the same as or substantially the same as sleeve 130.

The second front post panel 211 is oriented parallel to or substantially parallel to (e.g., within about 5° or less) the second back post panel 212. The front post panel 211 and the back post panel 212 define a gap, hollow region, or channel (in general, channel) 215 that is configured and/or sized to receive and/or enclose a portion of the fence 150. The channel 215 has a depth 218 that can be measured with respect to the first axis 161.

The third post 210 is preferably identical or substantially identical to the first post 110 and/or to the second post 120. For example, each channel 115, 125, 215 can have the same depth 118, 128, 218. Additionally or alternatively, each post panel 111, 112, 121, 122, 211, 212 can have the same or substantially the same (e.g., within about 5% or less) dimensions, such as with respect to the first axis 161, with respect to the second axis 162, and/or with respect to the third axis 163.

FIG. 2 also illustrates that the posts 110, 120, 210 of the fence cover 10 do not need to be collocated or aligned with the posts 152 of the fence 150. Thus, the posts 110, 120, 210 can be offset, aligned, or both with respect to posts 152. This allows the fence cover 10 to include standard-sized components, which is less-expensive to manufacture and less labor-intensive to install compared to manufacturing and installing custom-sized components.

FIG. 3 is a front view of the modular section 160 of the fence cover 10 according to another embodiment. In this embodiment, the height of the posts 110, 120 is approximately equal to the height of the panels 101, 102. This figure also illustrates that an optional post cap 300 can be mounted on the top of each post 110, 120. The front panel 101 is illustrated as including decorative grooves or ridges 310. The back panel 102 can also include grooves or ridges 310. The panels 101, 102 can include additional or different decorative features in other embodiments.

The fencer cover 10 is also shown as including an optional cover rail 320 that is disposed and/or mounted on the panels 101, 102. The optional cover rail 320 extends from the first post 110 to the second post 120 along the length of the panels 101, 102. The optional cover rail 320 is configured to cover and/or obscure the sleeve 130 (e.g., as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2) defined between the panels 101, 102 to provide a more finished look. The cover rail 320 can be mechanically coupled to the posts 110, 120 and/or to the panels 101, 102.

FIG. 4 is a front view of the fence cover 10 according to another embodiment. In this embodiment, the fence cover 10 includes an optional railing 400 that is mechanically coupled to the posts 110, 120. The railing 400 can provide an additional decorative feature of the fence cover 10. The railing 400 is located above the cover rail 320 such that the cover rail 320 is located between the railing 400 and the panels 101, 102.

The railing 400 can include one or more optional lights 410. The lights 410 can be mounted on any surface of the railing 400 including the bottom surface 401 (e.g., as illustrated), the top surface 402, and/or the side surface(s) 403. The light(s) 410 are preferably evenly spaced along the length of the railing 400, but they can be unevenly spaced in some embodiments. The light(s) 410 can be powered by one or more batteries 420, which can be embedded in the railing 400. Though illustrated in FIG. 4, the battery(ies) 420 are generally not visible. Alternatively, the light(s) 410 can be powered by an external power source such as an external battery or an external AC source. The light(s) 410 is/are can be light-emitting diodes (LEDs), incandescent, fluorescent, and/or another type of light. The light(s) 410 can be white or colored.

FIG. 4 further illustrates that a shoe molding 430 can be mechanically coupled to the bottom of each post 110, 120. The shoe molding 430 can provide a decorative feature and can obscure any unevenness of the ground or surface on which fence cover 10 is placed.

FIG. 5 is a top view of the top surface 402 of the railing 400 according to an embodiment. In this embodiment, a plurality of photovoltaic devices and/or solar cells (in general, photovoltaic devices) 500 are mounted on the top surface 402. The photovoltaic devices 500 are electrically coupled to the battery(ies) 420 to charge the battery(ies) 420 during daylight hours. The battery(ies) 420 are shown in FIG. 5 for illustrative purposes only, and they would normally be embedded in the railing 400 or another location for aesthetic purposes. FIG. 5 also illustrates that one or more optional lights 510 can be mounted on the top surface 402 of the railing. The light(s) 510 can be the same as or different than the light(s) 410. The light(s) 510 can be electrically coupled to the battery(ies) 420, but the electrical connection is not shown in this figure for illustrative purposes only.

The posts 110, 120 and/or railing 400 can include one or more removable sections 520. The removable sections 520 can be removed during installation to access the fence 150 (FIGS. 1, 2). For example, the removable sections 520 can be removed so that one or more sections of the fence cover 10 can be secured to the fence 150 (e.g., using fasteners 610 (FIG. 6) and/or a cured adhesive 700 (FIG. 7)). The removable sections 520 can be replaced after installation.

FIG. 6 is a top view of the fence cover 10 according to another embodiment. In this embodiment, the front and back post panels 111, 112, 121, 122 have a depth or thickness, as measured with respect to the first axis 161, that is greater than the depth or thickness of the front and back panels 101, 102, which can provide an additional decorative feature of the posts. The front and back post panels 111, 112, 121, 122 are mechanically coupled at the top and/or bottom of the posts 110, 120, as indicated by the dashed lines 600, which are partially obscured by the fence 150. The front panel 101 can be attached anywhere along the depth/thickness of the front post panels 111, 121. Similarly, the back panel 102 can be attached anywhere along the depth/thickness of the back post panels 112, 122.

This figure also illustrates that the fence cover 10 can be attached to the fence 150 and/or fence posts 152 with fasteners 610. The fasteners 610 can include clamps (e.g., hose clamps), wires, zip/cable ties, straps, rope, hook-and-loop fasteners, other fasteners, pop rivets, rivet nuts, cam lock fittings, cam studs, carriage bolts and nuts, and/or other attachment means.

FIG. 7 is a top view of a fence cover 70 according to another embodiment. Fence cover 70 is the same as fence cover 10 except that fence cover 70 includes a cured adhesive foam 700 in the channels 115, 125 and/or in the sleeve 130. The cured adhesive 700 can be an expanding adhesive foam. The expanding adhesive foam can be a two-part expanding adhesive foam (e.g., a two-part polyurethane foam) or a single-component expanding adhesive foam (e.g., a single-component polyurethane foam). The cured adhesive 700 can provide a chemical and/or a mechanical adhesion between the interior surfaces of the fence cover 70 and the fence 150 and/or posts 152. In the uncured state, the liquid(s) for the adhesive foam 700 can be sprayed or poured into the top of the channels 115, 125 and sleeve 130 before the optional cover rail 320 (FIG. 3) is mounted on the panels 101, 102 and and/or before the optional post cap 300 (FIG. 3) is mounted on each post 110, 120. In another embodiment, the liquid(s) for the adhesive foam 700 can be sprayed or poured into removable caps 1500 (FIG. 15) on the optional cover rail 320 and/or on the optional post caps 300.

The cured adhesive foam 700 can be used in addition to or instead of the fasteners 610 to secure the fence cover 70 to the fence 150 and/or posts 152.

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the fence cover 10 through plane 8-8 in FIG. 3 according to an embodiment. A bottom view of this embodiment is illustrated in FIG. 9. In this embodiment, first and second reservoirs 801, 802 are defined between the front and back panels 101, 102. The reservoirs 801, 802 are configured to hold first and second liquids 811, 812, respectively, of a two-part expanding adhesive foam. The bottom of the reservoirs 801, 802 are defined, at least in part, by a slidable shelf 820. The slidable shelf 820 can alternately be referred to as a removable shelf. The slidable shelf 820 has an external handle 830 at a proximal end 821 of the slidable shelf 820 that can be pulled laterally (e.g., along or parallel to the first axis 161) to cause the liquids 811, 812 to fall into a chamber 805 where the liquids 811, 812 can mix and cure to form a cured adhesive such as cured adhesive 700.

An optional mixing device 860 can be located in the chamber 805 to mix and/or agitate the liquids 811, 812. The mixing device 860 can include a rotatable plunger, a spring wheel, a rotatable blade, or another mixing device. An example of a rotatable plunger 1000 is illustrated in FIG. 10. The rotatable plunger 1000 includes a shaft 1010 that extends along an axis 1012, which can be parallel to the third axis 163. A plurality of agitation paddles 1020 are attached to and extend radially from the shaft 1010. The shaft 1010 is configured to rotate about axis 1012 to spin the agitation paddles 1020 and mix the liquids 811, 812. The shaft 1010 can rotate using a recoiling spring and/or a motor. For example, when the shaft 1010 is mechanically coupled to a recoiling spring, which can be the same as recoiling spring 1130 (discussed below), the agitation paddles 1020 and shaft 1010 can rotate in a first direction (e.g., clockwise) to mix the liquids 811, 812 as the liquids 811, 812 pass over the agitation paddles 1020. The rotation of the agitation paddles 1020 and shaft 1010 in the first direction causes the recoiling spring to be wound in the first direction. After the recoiling spring is wound in the first direction, the recoiling spring can unwind in a second direction (e.g., counterclockwise), which causes the agitation paddles 1020 and shaft 1010 to rotate in the second direction. The rotation of the agitation paddles 1020 and shaft 1010 in the second direction causes additional mixing of the liquids 811, 812. In addition, the rotation of the agitation paddles 1020 and shaft 1010 in the second direction causes the recoiling spring to be wound in the second direction. After the recoiling spring is wound in the second direction, the recoiling spring unwinds in the first direction (e.g., clockwise), which causes the agitation paddles 1020 and shaft 1010 to rotate in the first direction. This cycle of winding and rotation in the first and second directions can repeat until the liquids 811, 812 become sufficiently viscous during curing to stop the rotation of the agitation paddles 1020 and shaft 1010. Additionally or alternatively, the rotatable plunger 1000 can be turned or pushed down at the top (e.g., to engage the recoiling spring) to make the agitation paddles 1020 rotate.

An example of a spring wheel 1100 is illustrated in FIG. 11. The spring wheel 1100 includes a body 1110 and a plurality of agitation paddles 1120 that are attached to and extend radially from the body 1110. A recoiling spring 1130 is disposed in and mechanically coupled to the body 1110. As the liquids 811, 812 pass over the agitation paddles 1120, the agitation paddles 1120 and body 1110 rotate in a first direction (e.g., clockwise) to mix the liquids 811, 812. The rotation of the agitation paddles 1120 and body 1110 in the first direction causes the recoiling spring 1130 to be wound in the first direction. After the recoiling spring 1130 is wound in the first direction, the recoiling spring 1130 unwinds in a second direction (e.g., counterclockwise), which causes the agitation paddles 1120 and body 1110 to rotate in the second direction. The rotation of the agitation paddles 1120 and body 1110 in the second direction causes additional mixing of the liquids 811, 812. In addition, the rotation of the agitation paddles 1120 and body 1110 in the second direction causes the recoiling spring 1130 to be wound in the second direction. After the recoiling spring 1130 is wound in the second direction, the recoiling spring 1130 unwinds in the first direction (e.g., clockwise), which causes the agitation paddles 1120 and body 1110 to rotate in the first direction. This cycle of winding and rotation in the first and second directions can repeat until the liquids 811, 812 become sufficiently viscous during curing to stop the rotation of the agitation paddles 1120 and body 1110.

A first key, notch, or pin (in general, key) 840 can be defined in a distal end 822 of the slidable shelf 820 to secure the distal end 822 to the interior surface of the front panel 101, such as in a hole 842 that has a complementary shape first key 840. When the slidable shelf 820 is secured to the front panel 101, the chamber 805 is defined by the front panel 101, the back panel 102, the slidable shelf 820, and a bottom panel 808. When the slidable shelf 820 is removed, the chamber 805 and reservoirs 801, 802 are merged and are fluidly coupled. The bottom panel 808 can be secured to the fence 150 with one or more fasteners (e.g., such as fasteners 610) and/or with a cured adhesive (e.g., an expanding adhesive foam).

The slidable shelf 820 can include a perforation 824 at or near the distal end 822 which can cause or promote the breaking or snapping of the slidable shelf 820 after the slidable shelf 820 is pulled out and away from the back panel 102 (e.g., along or parallel to the first axis 161). For example, the slidable shelf 820 can be pushed downwards or pulled upwards with respect to the third axis to break/snap the slidable shelf 820 at the perforation 824. A second key 850 can be attached to the distal end 822 of the slidable shelf and configured to mechanically engage a hole 852 (e.g., a key hole) defined in the interior surface of the back panel 102. The hole 852 has a complementary shape to the second key 850. The second key 850 can be formed on a projection 852 of the slidable shelf 820 that extends along the third axis 163 into the chamber 805 and away from the reservoirs 801, 802. When the second key 850 is mechanically engaged in the hole 852, the portion of the slidable shelf 820, distal to the perforation 824, that remains after breaking/snapping can be mechanically secured to the back panel 102.

It is noted that the slidable shelf 820 can be oriented to slide in the opposite direction as discussed above, in which case the external handle 830 is located on or near the front panel 102. In other words, the labeling of the front and rear panels 101, 102 in FIG. 8 can be switched/reversed in another embodiment, for example as illustrated in FIG. 12. In another embodiment, the first and second reservoirs 801, 802 and the removable shelf 820 can be located in one or more of the posts 110, 120, 210 (FIG. 2). For example, in post 110 the first and second reservoirs 801, 802 can be defined at least in part by the front and back post panel 111, 112, as illustrated in FIG. 13. A top view of the slidable shelf 820 is illustrated in FIG. 14.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a corner section of the fence cover 10 according to an embodiment. The corner section includes a corner post 1600 that has first and second corner post panels 1601, 1602. The first and second post corner panels 1601, 1602 are oriented orthogonally or approximately orthogonally with respect to each other. For example, the interior surfaces of the first and second corner post panels 1601, 1602 can define respective planes that are mutually orthogonal or approximately mutually orthogonal. In other embodiments, the first and second corner post panels 1601, 1602 can be oriented at other angles with respect to each other to accommodate fences having different corner angles.

The first and second post corner panels 1601, 1602 are next to each other and define a corner channel 1610 to receive a corner of the fence 150 such as corner post 1652. The first corner post panel 1601 is mechanically coupled to the back panel 102 and to the second corner post panel 1602. The second corner post panel 1602 is mechanically coupled to a back panel 1622 and to the first corner post panel 1601. The front panel 101 and front panel 1621 can be mechanically coupled to one another or a to a shaft or rod 1604 that extends along or parallel to the third axis 163 on the inside corner 1606 of the corner post 1600.

In addition, this figure illustrates that post 110 can function as an end post 1620 with the addition of an end post panel 1630. The end post panel 1630 can be mechanically coupled to the front and back post panels 111, 112. The end post 1620 including end post panel 1630 can cover and/or hide an end post 1654 of the fence 150.

FIG. 17 is a front perspective view of a modular decorative fence cover 1700 according to another embodiment. Fence cover 1700 includes front and rear panels 1701, 1702, front and rear panels 1711, 1712, a middle post 1720, and a corner post 1730. Each panel 1701, 1702, 1711, 1712 includes a plurality of pins 1740 on opposing sides of the respective panel. The pins 1740 attached to the rear panels 1702, 1712 are not viewable in this figure. Each pin 1740 is configured to mechanically engage a respective slot or hole 1750 defined in the middle post 1710 or in the corner post 1720. The slots 1750 can have a teardrop shape or another shape that can releasably secure the pins 1740. Front panel 1701 has a length (e.g., measured along or parallel to the second axis 162) that is sized to overlap the posts 1720, 1730 so that the pins 1740 can be aligned with and mechanically engage the slots 1750 on the posts 1720, 1730.

The front panels 1701, 1711 and posts 1720, 1730 are illustrated as partially transparent so that the pins 1740 and slots 1750 can be viewed. The pins 1740 are on the inner side of the front panels 1701, 1711 and extend from the respective front panel 1701, 1711 towards the respective post 1720, 1730 to mechanically engage the respective slot 1750. The slots/holes 1750 defined in the posts 1720, 1730 extend inwardly into the respective posts 1720, 1730.

The middle post 1720 has two rows 1751, 1752 of slots 1750. The slots 1750 in row 1751 are configured to engage the pins 1740 on the left side of the front panel 1701. The slots 1750 in row 1752 are configured to engage the pins of another front panel in the decorative fence cover 1700. The corner post 1730 includes a set or row of slots 1750 defined on a first outer surface 1731 that are configured to engage the pins 1740 on the right side of the front panel 1701. The corner post 1730 includes another set or row of slots 1750 defined on a second outer surface 1732 that are configured to engage the pins 1740 on the left side of front panel 1711. The first and second outer surfaces 1731, 1732 can be oriented orthogonally with respect to each other to define a 90° corner. For example, the first outer surface 1731 can be parallel to a plane defined by the second and third axes 162, 163, and the second outer surface 1732 can be parallel to a plane defined by the first and third axes 161, 163. Alternatively, the first and second outer surfaces 1731, 1732 can be oriented at another angle with respect to each other, such as to define a 45° corner or another outer corner angle.

FIG. 18 is a rear perspective view of the modular decorative fence cover 1700. As can be seen, the pins 1740 on the rear panels 1702, 1712 are configured to be aligned with and mechanically engage the slots 1750 on the inner surfaces of the corner post 1730. For example, the pins 1740 on the left side of rear panel 1702 are configured to be aligned with and mechanically engage the slots 1750 on a first inner surface 1801 of the corner post 1730. In addition, the pins 1740 on the right side of rear panel 1712 are configured to be aligned with and mechanically engage the slots 1750 on a second inner surface 1802 of the corner post 1730. The first and second inner surfaces 1801, 1802 can be oriented orthogonally with respect to each other to define a 90° internal corner. For example, the first internal surface 1801 can be parallel to a plane defined by the second and third axes 162, 163, and the second internal surface 1802 can be parallel to a plane defined by the first and third axes 161, 163. Alternatively, the first and second internal surfaces 1801, 1802 can be oriented at another angle with respect to each other, such as to define a 45° internal corner or another internal corner angle. The first internal surface 1801 is preferably parallel to the first outer surface 1731. The second internal surface 1802 is preferably parallel to the second outer surface 1732.

This figure also illustrates that the rear side of the middle post 1720 has two rows 1851, 1852 of slots 1750. The slots 1750 in row 1851 are configured to engage the pins 1740 on the right side of the rear panel 1701. The slots 1750 in row 1752 are configured to engage the pins of another rear panel in the decorative fence cover 1700. The rear panel 1702 has a length (e.g., measured along or parallel to the second axis 162) that is sized to overlap the posts 1720, 1730 so that the pins 1740 can be aligned with and mechanically engage the slots 1750 on the posts 1720, 1730. In some embodiments, a third row 1853 of slots 1750 can be defined on the side surface 1722 of the middle post 1720 which can provide an alternative connection point to a front or rear panel, such as to form a corner post.

The pins 1740 and/or slots 1750 can have flexibility to accommodate different connection angles between adjacent panels. For example, the pins 1740 can be pivotably attached to the panels 1701, 1702, 1711, and/or 1712. Additionally or alternatively, the slots 1750 can be sized to attach to the pins 1740 at a range of angles.

Similar to FIG. 17, the rear panels 1702, 1712 and posts 1720, 1730 are illustrated as partially transparent so that the pins 1740 and slots 1750 can be viewed. The pins 1740 are on the inner side of the rear panels 1702, 1712 and extend from the respective rear panel 1702, 1712 towards the respective post 1720, 1730 to mechanically engage the respective slot 1750. The slots/holes 1750 defined in the posts 1720, 1730 extend inwardly into the respective posts 1720, 1730.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a post 1900 and a panel section 1910 according to an embodiment. The post 1900 includes a first surface 1901 into which a plurality of first slots 1921 are defined. The post 1900 also includes a second surface 1902 into which a plurality of second slots 1922 are defined. The second slots 1922 can be the same as slots 1750. The first and second slots 1921, 1922 can be shaped differently and configured to be mechanically engage with different types of securing means, such as hooks, pins, or other securing projection. This can provide flexibility in securing the post 1900 to different portions/sides of the panel section 1910, for example to former a corner post, a middle post, or an end post.

The panel section 1910 includes a front panel 1911, a rear panel 1912, and a side panel 1913. A plurality of pins 1740 are attached to the left side of the front panel 1911, such as in a column. A plurality of hooks 1930 are attached to the side panel 1913, which is attached to the front and rear panels 1911, 1912. In one configuration, the hooks 1930 are mechanically coupled to the first slots 1921, as illustrated in FIG. 20. In another configuration, the pins 1740 are mechanically coupled to the second slots 1922, as illustrated in FIG. 21. The panel section 1910 is transparent in FIGS. 20 and 21 for illustration purposes only.

In some embodiments, the hooks 1930 and/or the pins 1740 can be removably coupled to the panel section 1910. When the hooks 1930 are mechanically coupled to the first slots 1921, the pins 1740 can be removed to improve the aesthetic appearance of panel section 1910. When the pins 1740 are mechanically coupled to the second slots 1922, the hooks 1930 can be removed to improve the aesthetic appearance of panel section 1910.

FIG. 22 is an example illustration of a pin 1740. The pin 1740 includes a shaft 2200 and a head 2210. The head 2210 is circular in this embodiment but can be rectangular or another shape in other embodiments. The shaft 2200 is configured to be mechanically coupled to the relevant panel such as to the front panel 1701, 1711, 1911 or to the rear panel 1702, 1712. The head 2210 is configured to be inserted into and to mechanically engage a slot or hole in a post, such as slot 1750, 1922.

FIG. 23 is a block diagram of a fence-cover kit 2300 according to an embodiment. The kit 2300 is configured to be assembled to form a fence cover, such as fence cover 10 and/or fence cover 70.

The kit 2300 includes a plurality of posts 2310, a plurality of front panels 2320, and a plurality of back panels 2330. The posts 2310 can include one or more corner posts 2311, one or more end posts 2312, one or more middle posts 2313. The corner post(s) 2311 can be the same as or similar to corner post 1600, 1730. The end post(s) 2312 can be the same as or similar to end post 1620. The middle post(s) 2313 can be the same as or similar to posts 110, 120, 210, and/or 1720. The posts 2310 can have slots or holes, such as slots 1750, 1921, 1922, defined therein.

The front panels 2320 can be the same as or similar to front panels 101, 201, 1621, 1701, and/or 1711. The back panels 2330 can be the same as or similar to front panels 102, 202, 1622, 1702, and/or 1712. The front and back panels 2320, 2330 can include panel pairs 2325 where each panel pair 2325 includes one front panel 2320 and one back panel 2330. In some embodiments, the panel pairs 2325 can be pre-attached such as panel section 1910, which can include a side panel 1913. Pins 1740, hooks 1930, and/or other attachment means can be mechanically coupled (e.g., releasably mechanically coupled to the front panels 2320, the back panels 2330, and/or to the panel section 1910.

In some embodiments, the kit 2300 further includes a plurality of cover rails 2340, which can be the same as or similar to cover rail 320. Additionally or alternatively, the kit 2300 further includes a plurality of railings 2350, which can be the same as or similar to railings 400. The railing(s) 2350 can optionally include lights 2352 and/or photovoltaic devices 2354. Lights 2352 can be the same as or similar to lights 410 and/or 510. Photovoltaic devices 2354 can be the same as or similar to photovoltaic devices 500. Each railing 2350 can include an internal battery (e.g., battery 420) that can power the lights 2352 and that can be charged by the photovoltaic devices 500. Additionally or alternatively, the kit 2300 further includes a plurality of post caps 2360, which can be the same as or similar to post caps 300. Additionally or alternatively, the kit 2300 further includes a plurality of side panels 2370 which can be the same as or similar to side panels 140.

The kit 2300 can also include one or more containers of a liquid that can form an expanding adhesive foam. For example, the kit 2300 can include a plurality of containers 2380 that include a pre-mixed liquid for a two-part expanding adhesive foam or a liquid for a single-component expanding adhesive foam. Alternatively, containers 2380 can include liquid for the first part of a two-part expanding adhesive foam and containers 2390 can include liquid for the second part of the two-part expanding adhesive foam.

The kit 2300 can also include one or more containers 2400 of fasteners to secure the fence cover (e.g., fence cover 10) to a fence (e.g., fence 150) and/or fence post (e.g., fence post 152). The fasteners can be the same as or similar to fasteners 610. The kit 2300 can also include one or more mixing devices 2410 for mixing liquid for a two-part expanding adhesive foam. The mixing devices 2410 can be the same as or similar to mixing devices 860, such as one or more rotatable plungers 1000 and/or one or more spring wheels 1100.

The invention should not be considered limited to the particular embodiments described above, but rather should be understood to cover all aspects of the invention as fairly set out in the attached claims. Various modifications, equivalent processes, as well as numerous structures to which the invention may be applicable, will be apparent to those skilled in the art to which the invention is directed upon review of this disclosure. The claims are intended to cover such modifications and equivalents.

Also, as described, some aspects may be embodied as one or more methods. The acts performed as part of the method may be ordered in any suitable way. Accordingly, embodiments may be constructed in which acts are performed in an order different than illustrated, which may include performing some acts simultaneously, even though shown as sequential acts in illustrative embodiments.

Claims

1. A fence cover comprising:

a first panel;

a second panel; and

first and second posts, each post having a respective first post panel and a respective second post panel that define a respective channel that extends through a respective post, the respective channel configured to receive a fence,

wherein: the first panel is mechanically coupled to the respective first post panels of the first and second posts, the second panel is mechanically coupled to the respective second post panels of the first and second posts, and the first and second panels define a sleeve that is configured to receive the fence.

2. The fence cover of claim 1, further comprising a respective post cap attached to each post.

3. The fence cover of claim 2, further comprising a cover rail mounted on the first and second panels.

4. The fence cover of claim 3, wherein the cover rail is mechanically coupled to the first and second posts.

5. The fence cover of claim 3, further comprising a railing mechanically coupled to the first and second posts, the cover rail between the railing and the first and second panels.

6. The fence cover of claim 5, wherein a gap is defined between the railing and the cover rail.

7. The fence cover of claim 6, further comprising one or more lights mounted on the railing.

8. The fence cover of claim 7, further comprising:

one or more photovoltaic devices mounted on the railing; and

a battery disposed within the railing, the battery electrically coupled to the photovoltaic device(s) and the light(s).

9. The fence cover of claim 1, wherein a plurality of fasteners mechanically couple the first and second panels to the fence.

10. The fence cover of claim 9, further comprising an expanding adhesive foam disposed in the sleeve to adhere the first and second panels to the fence.

11. The fence cover of claim 10, wherein the adhesive foam is further disposed in the respective channel of each post to adhere the respective first and second post panels of each post to the fence.

12. The fence cover of claim 10, wherein first and second liquid reservoirs and a mixing chamber are defined between the first and second panels, the first and second liquid reservoirs configured to hold first and second liquids, respectively, that form the expanding adhesive foam when the first and second liquids are mixed in the mixing chamber, the mixing chamber fluidly coupled to the first and second liquid reservoirs to receive the first and second liquids therefrom.

13. A modular fence cover comprising:

a plurality of panel pairs of first and second panels; and

a plurality of posts, each post having a respective first post panel and a respective second post panel that define a respective channel that extends through a respective post, the respective channel configured to receive a fence,

wherein: a respective first panel of each panel pair is mechanically coupled to the respective first post panel of respective first and second posts, a respective second panel of each panel pair is mechanically coupled to a respective second post panel of the respective first and second posts, and each panel pair defines a respective sleeve that is configured to receive the fence.

14. The modular fence cover of claim 13, further comprising a plurality of cover rails, each cover rail mounted on a respective panel pair.

15. The fence cover of claim 14, further comprising a plurality of railings mechanically coupled to the respective first and second posts, each cover rail between a respective railing and the respective first and second panels.

16. A kit for a modular fence cover, comprising:

a plurality of panel pairs of first and second panels; and

a plurality of posts, each post having a respective first post panel and a respective second post panel define a respective channel that extends through a respective post, the respective channel configured to receive a fence,

wherein: a respective first panel of each panel pair is configured to be mechanically coupled to a respective first post panel of respective first and second posts, a respective second panel of each panel pair is configured to be mechanically coupled to a respective second post panel of the respective first and second posts, and when (a) the respective first panel of each panel pair is mechanically coupled to the respective first post panel of respective first and second posts and (b) the respective second panel of each panel pair is mechanically coupled to the respective second post panel of the respective first and second posts, each panel pair defines a respective sleeve that is configured to receive the fence.

17. The kit of claim 16, further comprising one or more containers of a liquid that is configured to form an expanding adhesive foam to adhere the respective first and second panels of each panel pair to the fence.

18. The kit of claim 17, further comprising one or more containers of fasteners to secure the modular fence cover to the fence.

19. The kit of claim 17, wherein one of the plurality of posts is an end post, the end post including an end post panel that is mechanically coupled to a first post panel and a second post panel of the end post.

20. The kit of claim 17, further comprising a corner post having a first corner post panel that is mechanically coupled to a second corner post panel, the first and second corner post panel mutually orthogonal with respect to each other so as to define a corner channel to receive a corner of the fence.