Metallic Patents (Class 256/21)
  • Patent number: 7677534
    Abstract: A decorative fencing system is provided for use as a small fence or decorative accent for a yard. The fencing system comprises several different structural components that may be joined in various combinations so as to create a limitless number of different configurations or arrangements. The components include base units, decorative end units and gate units, each of which may be attached to the other components in any combination thereof. Each of these components are attached to post sections which are inserted through post rings or post hinges on the individual components to thereby allow for each component to be rotated to the desired position relative to the post section. The post sections are secured to the ground by means of stakes that are first driven into the ground and the post section is then inserted into a sleeve in the stake to thereby provide support and stability for the fencing system. A separate and smaller pin is provided on the end units to anchor these components to the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Assignee: Garden Zone, LLC
    Inventor: Duane Langenwalter
  • Publication number: 20090309085
    Abstract: There is provided a fence post having a web and locating elements for engagement with an end portion of a barrier panel. The web has opposite inner and outer surfaces, and is profiled to facilitate alignment of the fence post with another said post when those posts are arranged back to back with the outer surfaces of the webs in abutting relation. The web incorporates at least one longitudinal groove that in use provides a channel between the abutting webs of fence posts for drainage of water from between the posts. There is also provided an intermediate fence post assembly having two of the posts arranged back to back with their respective webs in abutting relation, as well as a fence incorporating a plurality of the fence posts and/or fence post assemblies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2007
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Inventor: Ronald Leslie Mann
  • Patent number: 7587860
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a landscaper trellis that would feature basket hangers and a solar light incorporated into its design. The trellis would measure roughly 8 feet long and 8 feet high. The curved framework would consist of two lattice panels stretching between three support poles, and be made of a material comprising treated lumber, durable plastic, or a metal. The invention provides an attractive setting with the ability to hold planters, and provide lighting when necessary anywhere without requiring an external electrical source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2009
    Inventors: Aqueelah Ilyas, Muhammad Ilyas
  • Publication number: 20090152521
    Abstract: The invention relates to a manufacturing process and a multifunctional tubular post for fences obtained thereby, the posts (1) being used as support for a fence with wire netting, each of the posts having a plurality of joining elements (2-2?), the process comprising the steps of cutting from a laminated sheet reel a sheet portion (3), folding said sheet portion until achieving a tubular body, the free ends thereof being opposite, and joining said free ends. The process additionally comprises a cold-forming step between the cutting step and the folding step in order to define a plurality of grooves (4-5), the position and shape of which coincide with the position and shape of the joining elements (2-2?), the length of the mentioned grooves (4-5) being equivalent to the length of the outer contour of the joining elements (2-2?).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2007
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Inventor: Carlos Serrano Vicario
  • Publication number: 20090121206
    Abstract: A fence system including a fence post and a rail inserted into and supported by the fence post. The rail being an elongated member having a channel or U-shaped cross section defined by a web member and parallel leg members attached to the web member. The rail is inserted into an aperture located in a sidewall of the post. The aperture having a shape or configuration that is substantially the same as the cross-sectional shape of the rail. Accordingly, any gaps between the opening or aperture in the post and the rail, once the rail is inserted into the post, are minimized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2008
    Publication date: May 14, 2009
    Inventor: Rosario Esposito
  • Publication number: 20080276548
    Abstract: A cellular building block including a middle beam and two legs. The cellular building block having the first leg coupled to the middle beam such that the leg is perpendicular to the middle beam and a second leg coupled to the middle beam such that the leg is perpendicular to the middle beam and spaced apart from the first leg, the first leg and the second leg having an inside edge and an outside edge. Having at least one barb located on the inside edge of the first leg and on the inside edge of the second leg and further configured to lock into a recess. The cellular building blocks connect in a two dimensional or three dimensional pattern and a produce a structured material that holds itself together and exhibits beneficial characteristics.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2007
    Publication date: November 13, 2008
    Inventor: Paul Wennberg
  • Publication number: 20080217596
    Abstract: A modular fencing structure which comprises a plurality of spaced-apart, vertical support posts, which are secured in the ground by burying them a predetermined depth, optionally in concrete or the like. A plurality of horizontal support rails are fastened to the posts, interconnecting them and providing an attachment point for mounting the security panels. The security panels are manufactured from galvanized steel, are ribbed to provide maximum integrity, and are fastened to the horizontal support rails by means of one-way, tech-screw security fasteners or welding. Additional security measures, such as barbed wire or razor ribbon, are easily attachable to the top of the posts for applications where ultimate security is desired.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2008
    Publication date: September 11, 2008
    Inventor: John C. Dolan
  • Publication number: 20080001134
    Abstract: Some embodiments are directed to multi-piece fence posts that include: (a) a first anchor (typically metal) fence post member having opposing first and second end portions, wherein, in position, the first end portion is configured to reside underground; (b) a second (typically metal) fence post member having opposing first and second end portions; and (c) a coupler configured to snugly hold the second end portion of the first anchor metal fence post member and the first end portion of the second metal fence post member to thereby define an elongate fence post.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2007
    Publication date: January 3, 2008
    Inventor: James William Coley
  • Patent number: 7267324
    Abstract: An interlocking steel fencing system having posts and rails made from tubular steel, the posts and rails being either round or rectangular in shape, the posts having openings therein which correspond with the shape of a rail designed to be inserted therein, the end posts being provided with openings only on one side thereof, while in-line posts are provided with openings parallel to one another and corner posts are provided with openings in ninety-degree relation to one another, the end posts and corner posts being provided with spacer bars therein with which the rails are firmly abutted during assembly, and these posts being further provided with a locking cap to prevent removal of the spacer bars, the fencing system designed to be assembled such that each rail abuts the adjacent rail at a central location within the post or, on an end or corner post, abuts a spacer bar within the post and wherein the post openings are slightly larger than the rails to allow the fencing system to traverse uneven topography.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Inventor: Warren F. Young
  • Patent number: 7246792
    Abstract: An ornamental fence insert for a picket fence. The picket fence is of the type having two upper rails and a plurality of pickets extending through the rails to define spaces therebetween. The ornamental fence insert, having diametrically opposed projecting brackets, with each bracket having a pair of opposed sidewalls is adapted for installation in one of the spaces by straddling and engaging the pickets or the rails without the aid of welding or riveting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Iron Eagle Industries Inc.
    Inventors: Nicola Leone, Joseph Isopo
  • Patent number: 7168689
    Abstract: A sturdy aluminum pedestrian and bicyclist safety railing that reduces the amount of welding required during construction, comprising top and bottom rigid bars, each having a longitudinal, radially extending exterior passage and a plurality of aluminum pickets mounted within said bar top and bottom channels and held apart by a plurality of spacer plugs that interlock and snap snugly into each top and bottom bar channel and act as spacers to separate the pickets. The top and bottom bars may be welded together at each end of the railing to hold the entire unit together, retaining the plurality of rigid pickets that are substantially perpendicular (or inclined) to the top and bottom bars. The pickets are supported in the top and bottom bar channels without welding for increased strength and reduced cost of construction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2007
    Inventor: Pedro P. Giralt
  • Patent number: 7159853
    Abstract: A barrier such as a fence is formed by welding conductive upright members to conductive U-shaped rails by a projection resistance welding process. The rail includes at least one weld-forming region which projects within the rail channel, and may be formed wither as a ridge, or as a longitudinally spaced series of nipple-shaped projections. The upright member is transversely positioned within the rail channel in contact with the weld-forming region. A welding current transmitted between the upright member and the rail causes the weld-forming region to at least partially melt and form a weld within the rail channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Inventors: Edward L. Gibbs, Fred L. Givens, Gary W. Vonnahme
  • Patent number: 7134646
    Abstract: A privacy fencing system may be completely roll formed out of all aluminum and other various metals. This fence bolts together entirely to simulate the traditional old wood privacy picket fence, but does not deteriorate over time as a normal wood fence. Moreover, means are provided for facilitating air to flow through the privacy fence, for adjusting the privacy fence height to non-level terrains, and for maintaining a straight line privacy fence over non-level terrains.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Inventors: Roy C. Brooks, Randle D. Vaughn
  • Patent number: 7121531
    Abstract: A gate assembly with moving gate members with one pivoting end and a moving end. This moving end includes upper and lower tubular members that receive the ends of a protruding reinforcement member mounted to a housing for the locking hardware. The ends of the protruding reinforcement member extend internally a sufficient distance to enhance the structural integrity of the moving end. The reinforcement member readily aligns the housing with the tubular members of the moving end and provides a sturdy structure that is tamper proof. Through openings in the walls of the housing cooperate to permit the operation of the locking hardware.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Inventor: Jesus Gonzalez
  • Patent number: 7055806
    Abstract: A rail barricade includes a bottom rail and a U-shaped body frame having a top rail and a pair of vertical rails. A plurality of vertical spokes are located between the vertical rails. The bottom rail further includes an opposing pair of curved ends each having a projection that is received in a notch in one of the vertical rails. The connection is then welded. A foot is pivotally attached to each of the vertical rails. Hooks are attached to one of the vertical rails for attachment of a second rail barricade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Assignee: Stageright Corporation
    Inventors: John S. York, Jr., Timothy J. Hockemeyer
  • Patent number: 7032890
    Abstract: The present invention is a thin profile prefabricated reinforced plastic fence. A preferred embodiment of the fence comprises a top rail having a bottom side with a plurality of picket apertures and a bottom rail having a top side with a plurality of member apertures. The bottom rail preferably contains a horizontal strengthening member and supports the top rail by way of vertical pickets. Each picket sheaths a strengthening member that is slideable inside the picket. The top of each picket is inserted into the picket apertures of the top rail and the strengthening member extends from the bottom of each picket into the member aperture of the bottom rail. The bottom of each picket rests upon the top side of the bottom rail. The fence ends have a first post and second post to which the top and bottom rails are fastened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Inventor: John Svalbe
  • Patent number: 7025335
    Abstract: A modular picket fence including a pair of vertical separated posts and adapted to be secured to a suitable support surface. A pair of horizontal upper and lower rails extend between and secured to the vertical posts. The upper rail has a plurality of apertures which are aligned with a plurality of apertures on the lower rail. A plurality of vertical pickets are respectively inserted through into aligned apertures of the upper and lower rails. The end portion of each vertical picket has two transverse apertures. A locking member is assembled inside each end portion of the vertical picket. The locking member has spring biased stoppers extending through the transverse apertures at the end portion of the vertical picket, and further extending into and engaging inside the horizontal rail when the end portion of the vertical picket is inserted into one of the apertures of the horizontal rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Inventor: Alan Qing Zhu
  • Patent number: 6969051
    Abstract: A two-part rail is formed from a channel element which includes internal runners and stops which form a tray holder. A separate tray element may slide into the channel element, where it is supported on and confined by the tray holder. The tray element and channel element define boundaries of a retainer channel. Pickets traversed by alignable retainer passages are inserted through registering picket openings in the channel and tray elements of a rail. The pickets are secured to the rail by inserting a rod-like retaining element into the retainer channel of the rail and through the aligned retainer passages of the pickets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2005
    Inventor: Edward L. Gibbs
  • Patent number: 6929843
    Abstract: A tape barrier consisting of flexible material, has generally parallel edges and substantially greater length than width. Cuts are made into the tape at intervals along the tape forming slits that define cross members that extend generally along the length of the tape. The slits may be completed cuts so that the cross members are free to fall away from the tape or perforations that enable the cross members to be separated from the tape by tearing along the perforations. When the tape is deployed generally horizontally, the cross members will fall vertically so as to provide cross members along the length of the resulting tape structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2005
    Inventor: David M. Kuchar
  • Patent number: 6889960
    Abstract: A railing system for porches, decks, steps, ramps and the like having a top and bottom rail formed of wood containing a wood preservative that is corrosive to aluminum, aluminum alloys, paint and the like. The system has hollow metal balusters formed of metals which may be harmed by the corrosive effects of the wood preservative. The metal balusters and, if painted, the paint is protected from the corrosive effects of the wood preservatives by inert connectors interposed between the wooden components of the railing system and the metal or paint of the balusters. The connectors are also useful with untreated wood such as cedar or with synthetic materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Inventor: Kelly D Jones
  • Patent number: 6874765
    Abstract: A post for a security fence and comprises a thin sheet of steel which has been cold-formed to be of generally I section and is then galvanised.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Assignee: Hadley Industries PLC
    Inventor: Geoffrey Thomas Deeley
  • Patent number: 6863265
    Abstract: A security cover is used in conjunction with a visually pleasing picket fence barrier. The security cover, having a C-shaped cross section, restricts access to bolts used to couple each picket to top and bottom support beams and thereby prevents tampering with the fence.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Assignee: Safeguards Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Haim Perry, Bruce Cochrane
  • Patent number: 6824123
    Abstract: A picket fence and rail mounting system that is easily transformable by the consumer into a variety of aesthetic styles is provided. The system comprises at least an upper and a lower elongate rail. Each rail has a hollow interior defining a substantially I-shaped cross-section including at least a first slot and a second slot. A plurality of pickets are transversely slidable through openings in an upper surface of the rails and a channel in a lower surface. The pickets each have at least a first notch or indentation near a first end and a second notch or indentation near a second end. The distance from the first end to the first notch or indentation is preferably shorter than the distance from the second end to the second notch or indentation. An elongate retaining rod slidable within at least one rail cooperates with a notch or indentation on each picket to secure the picket to the rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2004
    Assignee: Master-Halco, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles Larsen, Michael Lindsey
  • Patent number: 6811145
    Abstract: A barrier such as a fence is formed by welding conductive upright members to conductive U-shaped rails by a projection resistance welding process. The rail includes at least one weld-forming region which projects within the rail channel, and may be formed wither as a ridge, or as a longitudinally spaced series of nipple-shaped projections. The upright member is transversely positioned within the rail channel in contact with the weld-forming region. A welding current transmitted between the upright member and the rail causes the weld-forming region to at least partially melt and form a weld within the rail channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Inventors: Edward L. Gibbs, Fred L. Givens, Gary W. Vonnahme
  • Patent number: 6811146
    Abstract: A sturdy aluminum pedestrian and bicyclist safety railing that reduces the amount of welding required during construction, comprising top and bottom rigid bars, each having a longitudinal, radially extending exterior passage and a plurality of aluminum pickets mounted within said bar top and bottom channels and held apart by a plurality of spacer plugs that interlock and fit snugly within each top and bottom bar channel and act as spacers to separate the pickets. The top and bottom bars may be welded together at each end of the railing to hold the entire unit together, retaining the plurality of rigid pickets that are substantially perpendicular (or inclined) to the top and bottom bars. The pickets are supported in the top and bottom bar channels without welding for increased strength and reduced cost of construction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Inventor: Pedro P. Giralt
  • Publication number: 20040079933
    Abstract: This invention consists of a fence constructed of metal vertical posts with upper and lower bars connecting the posts. The bottom bar is a cup or a trough in which wooden fence slats sit. The top bar consists of a back that is permanently affixed to both posts and a removable or hinged front that opens to permit the slats to be inserted without nails or tools. This invention is novel in that it presents a wooden backyard fence with standard wooden slats that can be removed or replaced without tools. The homeowner may therefore vary the height, the slat width and the design of the slats without replacing the entire fence.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2002
    Publication date: April 29, 2004
    Inventor: Charles Raphael Chesnutt
  • Patent number: 6637171
    Abstract: According to the preferred embodiments of the present invention, an apparatus and method for suspending rebar is disclosed. The rebar isolator of the present invention comprises a pointed metal spike or stake with one or more hollow-bodied rebar supports. Each of the hollow-bodied rebar supports has a support arm which supports the horizontally-positioned rebar. In addition, the spike or stake portion of the rebar isolator has a number of crimped zones which prevent the support arms from shifting downward or rotating in place when the concrete is poured over the horizontally-positioned rebar. The number of crimped zones corresponds to the number of hollow-bodied cylindrical rebar isolator supports and one crimped zone is located immediately below each of the support arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Inventor: Bryan D. Toone
  • Patent number: 6530561
    Abstract: A metal fence post for use with a wooden fence. The fence post has a U-shaped center section positioned between two flanges, and each of the flanges includes a plurality of holes extending along an edge. The fence post can be used as a line post, comer post or end post. In one form, the thickness of the sides of the U-shaped center section is about the same as the thickness of the wooden fence rails so that the fence posts are positioned in-line with the fence rails. The fence posts allow the fence boards to be attached to either or both sides of the rails. In another form, the center section has very closely spaced, but longer legs. That provides increased strength allowing thinner gauge material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2003
    Assignee: Master-Halco, Inc.
    Inventors: Charlie Larsen, Michael Lindsey, Jerry L. Short
  • Patent number: 6523807
    Abstract: A fencing system and method of manufacturing and installing a fencing system specifically designed to give the appearance of a traditional shadow box or privacy fence, wherein the system uses preformed non-corrosive, structurally sound corrugated panels, posts, posts mounts, channel mounts, and clips that mate and are securable using conventional fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Assignee: ARC Specialties, Inc.
    Inventor: Anthony R. Calverley
  • Patent number: 6491286
    Abstract: An apparatus for internally framing a vinyl gate suitable for use with vinyl fencing provides completely hidden structures formed of sheet metal and assembled for greater strength and rigidity. Beams may be formed as channels from sheet metal, which may be placed together, with open edges of the channel juxtaposed and positioned within each other, in order to provide fully closed perimeters for beams. Various types of corner ties are provided to support loads and squareness required between vertical and horizontal members of the frame. In various embodiments, vinyl sleeves may be placed over various beams before or after the beams have been fully assembled, as appropriate, possible, or required. In certain embodiments, the entire systems of gate framing may be shipped in a long format appearing primarily as linearly-extending, channel-shaped stock. Likewise sheathing can ship as long stock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Assignee: Vinyl Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: John L. Hadfield, Sr., Robert H. Calton
  • Patent number: 6431526
    Abstract: A railing component has a tubular metal body with a non-uniform cross section. The body is formed by hydroforming and has a coating applied to the exterior. A pattern is applied to the coating to simulate a wood grain. The interior of the tubular body is filled with foam and plugs are provided at opposite ends for connection to other railing components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2002
    Assignee: Dofasco Inc.
    Inventors: Gina Guerra, Jeffrey George Witt, Timothy Lim, Vernon Jim Casey
  • Patent number: 6375166
    Abstract: A fenced assembled from a plurality of pickets and at least one insert and at least one rail. The insert is laid across the pickets which are preferably arranged in spaced-parallel fashion. A piercing tool pierces through the insert and an associated picket, causing at least one tab of the insert, formed by the piercing action, to extend into the picket. The channel-shaped rail slides over the insert so that an integrated hook rib shape-fittingly moves into a gap between two integral legs provided near one end of the insert to lock the rail and insert to one another. The rail, in the locked position, substantially completely covers the insert, providing fence having an aesthetically appealing outer appearance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Assignee: Delair Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Frederick R. Schall, Peter B. Goodale
  • Patent number: 6349924
    Abstract: A fence structure made from steel rods approximately five eighths inch in diameter and having a tensile strength of about ninety thousand pounds, the fence structure comprising a plurality of horizontally extending and vertically spaced rods interconnected by a plurality of horizontally spaced vertical rods which are welded at their points of intersection to the horizontal rods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2002
    Inventors: Robert L. Studebaker, Jr., Warren F. Young
  • Patent number: 6260828
    Abstract: A prefabricated fence post assembly comprising a slotted fence post which slideably receives an adjoining prefabricated modular panel, picket fence, lattice or ornamental section for the construction of fences, walls and other structures incorporating panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2001
    Inventor: Robert F. English
  • Patent number: 6254064
    Abstract: An ornamental ring for a picket fence of the type having at least one horizontally extending rail being a top rail and at least one other horizontally extending rail being an intermediate rail spaced slightly below the top rail, and having a plurality of spaced vertical pickets connected to the rails such that the pickets extend through the rails and form rectangular openings with the upper rail and the intermediate rail, each rail having a top wall and an inner bottom wall spaced from the top wall so as to form a relatively narrow raceway wherein a retaining rod passes through each raceway of each rail and through openings in the pickets to retain the pickets in position, a ring filling each rectangular opening, each ring having a vertical tang extending upwardly from the top of the ring and through a slotted opening in the inner bottom wall of the top rail, each ring having a rectangular ear projecting downwardly from the bottom of the ring and extending into a slotted opening in the top wall of the interme
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2001
    Inventor: Edward L. Gibbs
  • Patent number: 6173945
    Abstract: The present invention includes an improved metal fence post for use with a wooden fence. The fence post has a U-shaped center section positioned between two flanges, and each of the flanges includes a plurality of holes extending along an edge. The fence post can be used as a line post, corner post or end post. Preferably, the thickness of the sides of the U-shaped center section is about the same as the thickness of the wooden fence rails so that the fence posts are positioned in-line with the fence rails. Advantageously, the fence posts allow the fence boards to be attached to either or both sides of the rails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2001
    Assignee: Master-Halco, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Lindsey, Charlie Larsen, Jerry L. Short
  • Patent number: 6155539
    Abstract: A fence and a furring strip for fence, which are light in weight and strong and are resistant to snow and wind are provided. Bent wire rods 1 are bent in a triangle shape, at the top 10 of which, at the portion a little off-center, a pair of parallel wire rods 2 are mounted both on the front and the rear sides. The furring strip in such a construction is inserted between vertical wire rods 51, 51 of the fence body formed like a folding screen. The furring strip is fixed on the fence body by an appropriate fitting and forms a fence.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2000
    Assignee: Asahi Steel Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kiyoshi Nakayama
  • Patent number: 6126145
    Abstract: A fence is disclosed where the pickets are mounted on longitudinal pivots so that the pickets may be rotated to present the broad face, narrow face, or any angle between to the zone in front of the fence. Adjustment allows the setting of the opening for light and air passage or changing color or decoration by having different colors or scenes on the opposite sides. The fence is easily dismantled in all or part for repair, painting, or moving to another location. Wind rotated pickets are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2000
    Inventor: Sylvia Ann Mohr
  • Patent number: 6061991
    Abstract: A deck system provides an easy to install deck by using unique columns, rails and planks. The columns can house electrical components. The rails enable quick assembly because they do not require additional fasteners or tools to install the balusters. The planks include a novel tongue-in-groove assembly that allows the planks to expand without damaging the deck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Inventor: Michael E. Dahl
  • Patent number: 6059269
    Abstract: A modular railing system for straight or curved stairways and straight or curved balconies includes a selected number of balusters, each having a stanchion for connection to a base support member of the balcony or stairway and a handrail member of the balcony or stairway railing system and a barrier part connected to the stanchion. The barrier parts may comprise predetermined ornamental scroll-shaped portions connected to the stanchions at spaced apart points between opposite distal ends of the stanchions and projecting laterally from the stanchions. Alternatively, the stanchions may project from opposite ends of the barrier part. Each baluster has a predetermined ornamental and functional shape to provide a repeating pattern of the railing system throughout its extent and to provide a maximum pass-through dimension to comply with regulatory requirements. The stanchion parts and barrier parts of each baluster are proportioned to provide modular railings for stairways having substantial differences in slopes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Inventor: Nancy A. Ross
  • Patent number: 6036176
    Abstract: A barrier including a plurality of elongate construction elements extending along a first axis and spaced from each other along a second axis substantially perpendicular to the first axis, the construction elements being telescopically extensible along the first axis, and an end of each construction element being formed with a tenon, the tenon being formed with a hole therein, at least one rail extending along the second axis, a plurality of apertures being formed through a thickness of the at least one rail and spaced from each other in correspondence with the spaced construction elements, each tenon mating with and protruding through a corresponding one of the apertures such that the construction element abuts the at least one rail and the hole of the tenon protrudes beyond the thickness of the at least one rail, and a plurality of fasteners, each fastener mating with a corresponding one of the holes so as to attach each construction element with the at least one rail substantially fixedly along the first a
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Inventor: Dov Rotshtain
  • Patent number: 5876020
    Abstract: A guardrail for a road or highway includes spaced uprights or posts on which are mounted deformable spacers which carry a longitudinal rail. The rail is formed by two wave shaped strips mounted together in a FIG. 8 profile by fastening ribs positioned in the open areas of the FIG. 8. The spacer has a straight lower portion that extends diagonally upward from the upright to the rail, a center portion fastened to the rail, and an upper portion curved to meet the upright. The spacer deforms to lift the rail upon impact. Additional tubular rails are provided on the uprights above the rail height.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1999
    Assignee: Autostrada del Brennero S.P.A.
    Inventor: Vittorio Giavotto
  • Patent number: 5820111
    Abstract: A modular railing system for straight or curved stairways and straight or curved balconies includes a selected number of balusters, each having a stanchion for connection to a base support member of the balcony or stairway and a handrail member of the balcony or stairway railing system and a barrier part connected to the stanchion. The barrier parts may comprise predetermined ornamental scroll-shaped portions connected to the stanchions at spaced apart points between opposite distal ends of the stanchions and projecting laterally from the stanchions. Alternatively, the stanchions may project from opposite ends of the barrier part. Each baluster has a predetermined ornamental and functional shape to provide a repeating pattern of the railing system throughout its extent and to provide a maximum pass through dimension to comply with regulatory requirements. The stanchion parts and barrier parts of each baluster are proportioned to provide modular railings for stairways having substantial differences in slopes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1998
    Inventor: Nancy A. Ross
  • Patent number: 5649688
    Abstract: A railing includes a top member having a downwardly opening first channel with a bottom and a bottom member having an upwardly opening second channel with a top. There is a plurality of spaced-apart vertical pickets, each picket having a top end in the first channel and a bottom end in the bottom channel. There are spacers adjacent the top and bottom members. Each spacer is an elongated, continuous member with a plurality of spaced-apart openings. Each spacer has a connector engaging one of the top and bottom members. The pickets extend through the openings in the spacers. There may be resilient members along the channels. During assembly the resilient members are first fitted within the channels and the spacer members are then secured to the top and bottom members. The pickets can then be inserted through the openings in the elongated members. The elongated members are then brought towards each other and secured in place with the pickets compressing the resilient members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 22, 1997
    Inventor: Neill E. Baker
  • Patent number: 5556080
    Abstract: A fence system including a frame and a plurality of foraminous panels attached to the frame. The foraminous panels are constructed with continuous integral strands forming a zig-zag pattern defining cell apertures therebetween which are connected by integral bonds extending between each of the strands. The cell apertures define a non-circular interior shape. A fastener of the fence system has a shank, a head attached to one end of the shank, and may include a shoulder positioned between the shank which is shaped to cooperatively engage a cell aperture. The foraminous panels are attached to the frame with a portion of each neighboring panel having an overlapping area through which fasteners are inserted and attached. A reinforcing assembly including at least one reinforcing member attached over each overlapping area and may be attached over other joints or edges to provide added security. An angled top edge cap is attached along a top end of the foraminous panels and is angled to deter climbing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 17, 1996
    Assignee: Alabama Metal Industries Corporation
    Inventor: Larry L. Vise
  • Patent number: 5421557
    Abstract: A fence system including a frame and a plurality of foraminous panels attached to the frame. The foraminous panels are constructed with continuous integral strands which are connected by integral bonds extending between each of the strands. The integral strands form a zig-zag pattern defining cell apertures therebetween. The cell apertures define a non-circular interior shape. A fastener of the fence system has a shank and a head attached to one end of the shank. A shoulder positioned between the shank and the head is shaped to cooperatively engage a cell aperture for preventing rotation of the fastener when engaged with a foraminous panel. The foraminous panels are attached to the frame with a portion of each neighboring panel having an overlapping area through which fasteners are inserted and attached. An angled top edge cap is attached along a top end of the foraminous panels and is angled to deter climbing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 6, 1995
    Assignee: Alabama Metal Industries Corporation
    Inventor: Larry L. Vise
  • Patent number: 5337528
    Abstract: A child assist rail and support system is disclosed which is adapted for attachment to an existing or new handrail at a stairway. The child assist rail and support system includes a plurality of suspension elements and a strap associated with each suspension element. The strap is adapted to suspend the associated suspension element below the handrail. The strap is further adapted to position a first end of its associated suspension element proximate to said handrail of the stairway. There is an auxiliary rail positioned at a second end of each of the suspension elements. The strap is also operative to maintain the auxiliary rail in a proximate position with respect to the second end of each of the suspension elements. There is a locking element operative with the strap of each of the suspension elements. The locking element is operative with the strap and the suspension element for maintaining the auxiliary rail in a substantially stationery position with respect to the handrail of the stairway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 16, 1994
    Inventors: Frank Jaworski, Sabrina Jansen, Wayne Jaworski
  • Patent number: 5332196
    Abstract: A fence post end cap is attached to the top of a hollow cylindrical fence post. The end cap has a plurality of different-sized bores which are capable of supporting lawn decorations or accessory items. The items that can be supported by the end cap include but are not limited to a flagpole, a birdhouse, a planter, or even a hook for a coiled garden hose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 26, 1994
    Inventor: Richard P. Wright
  • Patent number: 5149060
    Abstract: Apparatus and method of fabrication for a fence post or column comprising a multiplicity of ornamental sections configured to assemble about an elongated, central support member such as steel tubing or the like to form a single simulated wrought iron ornamental fence post, column or the like. The present invention teaches welded, adhesive, and frictional means of joining the ornamental sections to the support member. The system of the present invention allows the user to configure the post or column in a multitude of arrangements, and is adaptable to various length support members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1992
    Inventor: Roger T. Boes
  • Patent number: 4923176
    Abstract: A fence connector assembly is provided with a connector bracket defining a vertical cavity for receiving a fence post, in which vertically oriented, laterally extending side members project from the side of the bracket parallel to each other and spaced apart. A swivel bracket having a pair of spaced legs connected by a convex bearing portion, engages the side members so that the legs form a rail receiving pocket therebetween. The bearing portion has a horizontally elongated slot. The lock fastener extends through the slot into threaded engagement with the connector bracket enabling the swivel bracket to be swivelable to selected positions to allow selected orientation of a rail relative to the connector bracket and a post therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 8, 1990
    Assignee: Harbor Towne Fence, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald E. Heinz