Connection Patents (Class 256/65.01)
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Patent number: 7377491Abstract: Disclosed is a construction bracket supporting temporary construction structures such as safety railings and scaffolding which are composed of construction members such as steel or wooden beams. The bracket has a support plate and a substantially hollow column member extending upwardly from the support plate. The column member is provided with at least one aperture adapted to receive a tightening member for securing the construction members to the column member.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2005Date of Patent: May 27, 2008Inventor: Maurizio Fuoco
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Patent number: 7374154Abstract: A fence rail clip for attaching a fence rail to a vertical fence. The rail clip has a base with a raised central area flanked by two lateral areas and a rail connector that, vertically or horizontally, slidingly engages the central area of the base. The lateral areas include apertures through which fasteners are inserted to connect the clip to the fence post. A cover snap-fits over each lateral area to hide the fasteners and give the rail clip a clean and aesthetically pleasing appearance.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 2005Date of Patent: May 20, 2008Inventor: Robert E. Platt
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Patent number: 7344122Abstract: A fence brace assembly, and method for assembling a fence brace assembly comprising at least one post, at least one member, at least one joint connection comprising an opening in a stabilizing surface, at least one tab-slot in a securing surface, wherein the member has at least one tab, the member passes through the opening in the stabilizing surface, and the tabs engage the tab slots in the tab-slots in the securing surface. Also a kit for assembling a fence brace assembly having component parts capable of being assembled in the field and adapted for use with a plurality of fence posts.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2004Date of Patent: March 18, 2008Inventors: Mark S. Gasaway, Marvin Kent Gasaway
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Publication number: 20080061281Abstract: A railing system. The system comprises a first rail comprising an axis and a second rail comprising an axis. The system also comprises a mechanism for coupling the first rail to the second rail in a co-axial configuration, a first leg slidably attached to the first rail, and a second leg slidably attached to the second rail. The first leg and the second leg are for supporting the first and second rails at a distance away from a surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 7, 2007Publication date: March 13, 2008Applicant: TBT CONSULTING, LLCInventor: Melissa Boucher
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Publication number: 20080054242Abstract: A rail for a railing system includes a proximal member extending lengthwise of the rail and securable to ends of balusters; a cover member extending lengthwise of the rail and disposed adjacent the proximal member; and a reinforcement member disposed between the proximal member and the cover member. The reinforcement member includes a first attachment element coupled to a first one of the proximal and cover members, and the other one of the proximal and cover members is coupled to at least one of the reinforcement member and the first one of the proximal and cover members.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 1, 2007Publication date: March 6, 2008Inventors: Gabriel Petta, Rolf J. Ohrstrom
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Patent number: 7338033Abstract: A support post base for a portable safety rail or fence system, said base having a top face side, an opposed bottom face side for contacting a support surface, and first toe rail holder slots or channels configured for detachably engaging a toe rail component for horizontal disposition thereof, said top face side presenting support post engagement (upright) sockets, pins, or the like configured for detachably engaging one or more support posts for upstanding disposition thereof.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2004Date of Patent: March 4, 2008Inventors: Andrew Philip Anson, Benjamin Anson
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Publication number: 20080042116Abstract: A connector for a steel fence or the like is provided. The connector is formed from a single, cast metallic piece yet can mount one or multiple adjacent rail sections on a post using only a single mount or piece of hardware attaching the connector to the post. It has a vertical throughbore for receiving the post and a horizontal throughbore that intersects with the vertical throughbore at approximately its mid-point. Each end of the horizontal throughbore forms a receptacle for receiving an end of an associated rail section. A grommet is mounted in each receptacle for centering the associated rail section end in the receptacle, locking the rail section from rotation. The grommet also accommodates limited pivoting of the rail section relative to the connector in both the horizontal and vertical planes, hence, accommodating both inclination and directional changes in the fence.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 16, 2007Publication date: February 21, 2008Applicant: CHIPLESS METALS L.L.C.Inventor: James A. Buckley
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Patent number: 7322564Abstract: A fence having tubular rails, tubular pickets and tubular posts formed from pultruded fiberglass has several advantageous features. Lightweight fiberglass components are very strong and will not rust like metal fencing and do not require frequent maintenance like wood fencing. Pultruded fiberglass components are easy to manufacture and transport and the finished fence can be assembled using conventional fasteners. Once formed the components of this fence system can be bundled in easy to ship sets for assembly in the field. The fence system adapts well to difficult yards to fence because it can be modified with conventional hand tools.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2005Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Inventor: John Fakhari
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Patent number: 7306203Abstract: A fencing system includes a vertically elongated post mount mountable on a foundation and one or more post inserts mounted on the post mount to provide a stable structure for fastening thereto rail mounting brackets and associated rails. Each post insert extends outwardly from the post mount and typically abuts an inner surface of a hollow post. Fasteners extend from the rail mounting bracket through the post and into the post insert to provide a strong connection for the mounting of the rail mounting bracket and rail. The post inserts may be mounted on the post mount without tools. One of the post inserts serves as a spacer for setting the height of associated rail mounting brackets and rails. The spacer may include two members which are removably connected to one another via a friction fit to provide various benefits.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2006Date of Patent: December 11, 2007Inventor: Robert E. Platt
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Patent number: 7273200Abstract: The invention relates to a construction safety assembly. The inventive assembly comprises: safety posts with non-skid ends, which are provided with means for the rapid connection of a barrier; and, optionally, an upper jack-type safety element having a lower horizontal protrusion along an inclined plane, which is used to brace the cornice or projecting element of a building and which can also comprise the aforementioned barrier connection means. The adjustable-length barrier comprises a base which covers the lower part thereof. In this way, the invention provides a dual safety assembly of very simple construction, which can be used to guarantee the collective safety of labourers performing external and internal construction work and prevent accidents.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 2004Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Inventor: Tomas Funes Gavilan
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Patent number: 7234688Abstract: A fence pole clip, comprising two clip sections, the sections having portions configured to conformingly attach to two fence poles, and means swingably interconnecting the sections between the end portions, whereby the sections can be relatively swung to allow positioning of the two clip sections and portions adjacent one of the poles.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2005Date of Patent: June 26, 2007Inventor: Christopher J. Asenbauer
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Patent number: 7225896Abstract: A collapsible handrail mechanism for steps or a ladder including: an outer stringer and an inner stringer jointly pivotable about a pivot point; a stanchion located between the outer and inner stringers and pivotally mounted to at least one of the stringers; a latching mechanism through which the stanchion passes and to which at least one of the stringers is pivotally mounted at the said pivot point; the latching mechanism having a slide plate preventing substantial downwards movement of the stanchion, a top plate preventing substantial upwards movement of the stanchion, and a side plate preventing substantial sideways movement of the stanchion; whereas, in operation of the handrail mechanism from a stowed position, when the stringers are lowered the stanchion is thereby forced to slide on the slide plate causing the stanchion to pivot about its mounting up into an operational position.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2003Date of Patent: June 5, 2007Inventor: Kerry Charles Broad
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Patent number: 7216854Abstract: A novel fence module is provided for use in a burrowing-animal discouraging modular fence, the module comprising a plurality of generally parallel elongate members each having an upper end and a tapered lower end, upper and lower crossbars connecting the plurality of elongate members in a row with a pair of end members and a plurality of intermediate members, wherein the elongate members have a spacing of between about 1 inch and about 2½ inches, a connector extending outwardly beyond at least one of the pair of end members for closely connecting the module to another module, wherein the tapered lower ends of the elongate members extend at least about 3 inches below the lower crossbar for insertion into ground, and wherein the elongate members extend at least about 16 inches above the lower crossbar.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2004Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Inventor: Thomas R. Bryan
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Patent number: 7168689Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 1, 2004Date of Patent: January 30, 2007Inventor: Pedro P. Giralt
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Patent number: 7128308Abstract: Components and a system for limiting access and egress. A properly scaled barrier of the present invention meets varied requirements for applications that include: security, safety, order, privacy, and discipline. In one embodiment, pre-manufactured panels and connectors are delivered to a site that has been prepared for installation of the system. Local materials may be used for the panels in some cases. The panels and connectors can be assembled quickly by unskilled labor and, in some embodiments, the barrier just as quickly dismantled or repaired as necessary. One embodiment may be used as a temporary or emergency solution to access control while another may employ in-fill material to provide a permanent barrier. Another embodiment may be used in a residential setting, providing storage in some installations. In all embodiments, accessories for enhancing effectiveness may be installed on or within the barrier.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2004Date of Patent: October 31, 2006Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the ArmyInventors: Charles P. Marsh, Charles C. Lozar, Brian Temple
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Patent number: 7121529Abstract: A fence panel that includes a self-contained connector system which can be used to interconnect, in assembling an animal enclosure, up to four of the panels quickly and easily without the need for additional posts, connectors, or other apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2003Date of Patent: October 17, 2006Assignee: Priefert Mfg. Co., Inc.Inventor: William Dean Priefert
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Patent number: 7121530Abstract: Method of assembling a fence that includes posts and rails, wherein the method provides for placing a plurality of spaced apart posts in the ground, sliding at least two post brackets over an end of each post, sliding at least one first rail bracket over an end of a rail, sliding at least one second rail bracket over an end of another rail, connecting the projecting portion of the first rail bracket to the first projecting portion of one of the post brackets with a first fastener, and connecting the projecting portion of the second rail bracket to the second projecting portion of the one of the post brackets with a second fastener. The first and second rail brackets are movably mounted to the one of the post brackets via the first and second fasteners.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 2004Date of Patent: October 17, 2006Inventor: John Preta
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Patent number: 7114706Abstract: A frame for bracing a gate includes a first and second upright brace having respective outboard edges positioned flush to opposite vertical edges of the gate. First upper and lower cross braces have respective opposite ends received within upper and lower ends of the first and second upright braces. Second upper and lower cross braces respectively have opposite ends abutting upper and lower ends of the first and second upright braces. First and second upper mounting members respectively have outboard ends abutting upper ends of the first and second upright brace member and inboard ends secured to the first and second upper cross braces. First and second lower mounting members respectively have bases abutting lower ends of the first and second upright braces and inboard ends secured to the first and second bottom cross braces. The structure enables mounting of a gate on a non-level surface.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 2004Date of Patent: October 3, 2006Assignee: Alumi-Guard, Inc.Inventors: Jeff Bemis, William Woodard, Dan Perry
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Patent number: 7044448Abstract: 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 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 are protected from the corrosive effects of the wood preservative by inert fixtures interposed between the wooden components of the railing system and the metal of the balusters. The fixtures may be joined by runners that simplify installation of the railing system.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2003Date of Patent: May 16, 2006Assignee: Deckorators, Inc.Inventor: Kelly D. Jones
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Patent number: 7044451Abstract: A fence rail clip for attaching a fence rail to a vertical fence post is disclosed. The rail clip has a bracket and a rail connector. The bracket may be secured to the vertical post. The rail connector has a rail receiving receptacle into which an end of a rail may be inserted and the connector is adapted to slidingly engage the bracket. When the position of the rail connector is altered by sliding the rail connector along the bracket, the angle of the rail receiving receptacle is altered, thereby changing the angle at which a rail may be attached to the post.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2003Date of Patent: May 16, 2006Inventor: Robert E. Platt
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Patent number: 7036799Abstract: A structural glass panel railing includes glass panels supported on a floor by a base assembly including a railing support assembly. The railing support assembly includes a shoe fastened to the floor, a base member locked to the shoe by a cam lock lever and a channel member having a pocket receiving the panel. The base member may be attached directly to the floor. The channel member is received in a groove of the base member and is held by a wedge system. The wedge system can be formed by mating tapers on the channel member and the groove or by a wedge member inserted into the groove. A handrail assembly includes a handrail channel member receiving the top edge of the panel. The handrail channel member is received in a groove in a handrail.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2002Date of Patent: May 2, 2006Inventor: John D. Shepherd
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Patent number: 7032890Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 25, 2003Date of Patent: April 25, 2006Inventor: John Svalbe
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Patent number: 7028991Abstract: A lockable protective cap for a post is disclosed. The protective cap comprises a sidewall having a first end and an open second end. The sidewall forms a post receiving opening for receiving a post through the open second end. The cap further comprises a cover at least partially closing the first end of the sidewall and a locking member extending from the sidewall for engaging an engageable surface of the post.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2004Date of Patent: April 18, 2006Inventor: Robert J. Egan
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Patent number: 7025335Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 9, 2003Date of Patent: April 11, 2006Inventor: Alan Qing Zhu
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Patent number: 7007978Abstract: A portable lightweight grind rail assembly formed of a tube supported on a multiplicity of spaced apart tube supports, each tube support having a base, a tube receiving surface and tube receiving mechanism which retains a portion of the tube on the tube receiving surface.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2004Date of Patent: March 7, 2006Inventor: Erik Purdom
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Patent number: 6986505Abstract: A fence rail clip for attaching a fence rail to a vertical fence post is disclosed. The rail clip has a bracket with a raised central area flanked by two lower lateral areas and a rail connector that, vertically or horizontally, slidingly engages the central area of the bracket. The lateral areas define locations for connecting the bracket to a vertical post. The rail connector has a rail receiving receptacle into which an end of a rail may be inserted. The bracket may include indicia for determining the correct position of attachment of the rail connector to the bracket. When the position of the rail connector is altered by sliding the rail connector relative to the bracket, the angle of the rail receiving receptacle is altered, thereby changing the angle at which a rail may be attached to the post.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 2002Date of Patent: January 17, 2006Inventor: Robert E. Platt
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Patent number: 6969051Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 22, 2002Date of Patent: November 29, 2005Inventor: Edward L. Gibbs
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Patent number: 6944989Abstract: A system and kit of components for winterizing plants and trees, where the invention comprises a skeletal frame formed by plural first tubular members, each having an upper end and a lower end. When assembled, the respective lower ends are spaced apart and positioned vertically and anchored within the ground surrounding the plant or tree. Joined between adjacent first tubular members are plural second tubular, horizontally oriented, members to form a generally square skeletal frame. About the skeletal frame is a light-transmitting plastic wrap. Overriding the skeletal frame is a top frame, preferably pivotal about a pair of upper ends, to allow access to the protected plant or tree. Additionally, the invention contemplates a cover, such as a plastic wrap or canvas-like material over the top frame to ensure complete protection of the plant or tree.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 2004Date of Patent: September 20, 2005Inventor: John Bradley
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Patent number: 6938882Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 9, 2002Date of Patent: September 6, 2005Assignee: Vinyl Industries, Inc.Inventors: John L. Hadfield, Sr., Robert H. Calton
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Patent number: 6902152Abstract: The invention includes an assembly for adjustably supporting and positioning a fence rail at a user-selected, user-modifiable elevation and at an user-selected, user-modifiable angle. The assembly includes: A slotted member containing a plurality of uniformly-sized and uniformly-shaped slots spaced at regular intervals along its length and a bracket member including (1) a handle, (2) a first slot-engaging portion detachably insertable into a first slot among the plurality of slots, (3) a second slot-engaging portion detachably insertable into a second slot among the plurality of slots, and (4) a fence rail contacting portion with a fence rail contacting surface.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2003Date of Patent: June 7, 2005Inventors: Jeffory Neil Clifford, Blair J. Sautter, Dale Kirk Hepworth, Larry Jacob Stucki
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Patent number: 6851661Abstract: A portable, fold-over fence panel for delineating athletic fields and controlling crowds includes a frame having a pair of vertical members and a pair of horizontal members; a panel of flexible material supported by the frame; first and second springs removably connected to the vertical members, each of the springs having a mounting spike integrally formed therewith for insertion into a soft, outdoor surface; first and second tubular feet interchangeable with said springs and suitable for supporting the frame on a hard surface; and wherein said springs allow the frame to fold over upon impact.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2003Date of Patent: February 8, 2005Inventor: Dennis E. Penning
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Patent number: 6840507Abstract: A fence post system that permits the attachment of conventional fencing sections is recited. The pole of this post system is preferably a square tube having a trio of vertically spaced bore sets, each bore within the set having a threaded connector disposed therein. A notched insert sized to fit inside the pole and having an elevation of no greater than about 18 inches is set into a hole, the pole disposed over it, the proper elevation determined, followed by attachment of the tube to the insert, with the tube elevated from the bottom of the excavation. The tube is retained vertically, concrete poured into the excavation and permitted to harden around the insert and the elevated tube. Slab side members are bolted to the connectors on at least two of the sides of the pole such that a fencing section can be attached conventionally to each slab side member.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2002Date of Patent: January 11, 2005Inventor: Dennis D. Brown
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Patent number: 6827336Abstract: A concrete fencing system uses a pair of end posts to support a pair of rails, which support a plurality of panels. The end posts and rails have rectangular cross-sections. Each end post has a blind hole and a notch, and each rail has a longitudinal slot. One section of the fencing system is constructed by setting a pair of the end posts in the ground. A lower rail is mounted between the lower ends of the end posts in their blind holes with its slot facing upward. An upper rail is mounted between the upper ends of the end posts in their notches with its slot facing downward. A set of the panels are placed between the end posts and seated in the slots of the rails to form a wall. No additional mechanical fasteners are required to join any of these components.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2002Date of Patent: December 7, 2004Inventor: Byung Sun Hwang
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Patent number: 6824123Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: May 24, 2001Date of Patent: November 30, 2004Assignee: Master-Halco, Inc.Inventors: Charles Larsen, Michael Lindsey
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Patent number: 6811146Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 16, 2002Date of Patent: November 2, 2004Inventor: Pedro P. Giralt
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Patent number: 6811145Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: May 7, 2002Date of Patent: November 2, 2004Inventors: Edward L. Gibbs, Fred L. Givens, Gary W. Vonnahme
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Patent number: 6807788Abstract: A baluster includes a proximal section that is mounted on a stair of a staircase and a distal section that is fastened to a railing associated with the staircase. The distal section includes a bore which snugly and releasably accommodates a central section of the baluster so the central section can be moved with respect to the distal section whereby the baluster can be easily accommodated between the stair and the railing.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2003Date of Patent: October 26, 2004Inventor: Edgell R. Terry
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Patent number: 6802496Abstract: Bracket system for assembling a fence that includes posts and rails, wherein the bracket system includes a post bracket including a first projecting portion and a second projecting portion. The post bracket is securable to a post. The first projecting portion extends in one direction and the second projecting portion extends a different direction. A first rail bracket includes a first end securable to the first projecting portion and a second end that is securable a rail. A second rail bracket includes a first end securable to the second projecting portion and a second end that is securable another rail. The post bracket has an internal opening whose size and shape generally corresponds to a size and shape of the post. Each of the first and second rail brackets is configured to lengthen or shorten a respective rail upon movement of the post bracket relative to the post. Prior to being secured thereto, the post bracket can slide up and down relative to the post.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2002Date of Patent: October 12, 2004Inventor: John Preta
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Publication number: 20040195558Abstract: A modular fence system. The system includes fence planks designed for insertion into open channels of upper and lower fence rails. The fence rails are supported in a horizontal orientation between intermittent fence posts, with the open channels facing toward a vertical direction and with the fence planks extending vertically between the rails and into the channels. The planks preferably include resilient protrusions at their upper ends. The protrusions of the planks are designed to fit into internal passages formed in the open channels of the upper fence rail, into engagement with ledges defining the passages, to inhibit inadvertent removal of the planks from the upper rail. The fence rails can also be used in a different way and in a different position, in which the open channels face toward a horizontal direction, with an elongate cap coupled to the rail to cover the open channel. Plank members are coupled to the cap such that the cap resides between the plank members and the rail.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 30, 2004Publication date: October 7, 2004Applicant: Building Products, Inc.Inventors: John T. Forbis, Randy Quaintance, Ronald R. West
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Publication number: 20040188665Abstract: The present invention is a fence assembly comprising fence segments and connectors. Each fence segment may be secured to another fence segment by a connector. The present invention may use in-line connectors, living hinge connectors, male/female hinged connectors, and/or end caps. The connectors may be adapted to fit into the hollow channel rails by a friction fit, press fit, adhesion, or any other suitable connecting means.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 2, 2004Publication date: September 30, 2004Applicant: Crane Plastics Company LLCInventors: James Christopher Cook, Paul R. Pelfrey
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Patent number: 6779782Abstract: A corner post and H-brace system for building fences employing standard components of the system and a couple of simple tools. The system employs fence posts and connecting rods that extend between adjacent fence posts. The connecting rods attach to ears and rings provided on the posts via bolts or other suitable fasteners. The ears and rings allow the connecting rods to be pivoted upward and downward relative to the posts and allow the connecting rods to be rotated around the posts so that a fence of any horizontal curvature can be custom built, even on ground that is not level.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2003Date of Patent: August 24, 2004Inventor: Russell L. Webb
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Patent number: 6755394Abstract: A modular fence system. The system includes fence planks designed for insertion into open channels of upper and lower fence rails. The fence rails are supported in a horizontal orientation between intermittent fence posts, with the open channels facing toward a vertical direction and with the fence planks extending vertically between the rails and into the channels. The planks preferably include resilient protrusions at their upper ends. The protrusions of the planks are designed to fit into internal passages formed in the open channels of the upper fence rail, into engagement with ledges defining the passages, to inhibit inadvertent removal of the planks from the upper rail. The fence rails can also be used in a different way and in a different position, in which the open channels face toward a horizontal direction, with an elongate cap coupled to the rail to cover the open channel. Plank members are coupled to the cap such that the cap resides between the plank members and the rail.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 2002Date of Patent: June 29, 2004Assignee: Kroy Building Products, Inc.Inventors: John T. Forbis, Randy Quaintance, Ronald R. West
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Patent number: 6752385Abstract: A railing system comprising a first longitudinal rail portion defining a channel into which pickets are insertable at spaced intervals. Fasteners are used to pivotally connect the pickets to the channel for orientation to a desired angle with respect to the first longitudinal rail portion. A second longitudinal rail portion is fittable onto the first longitudinal rail portion to form an assembled rail member in which the channel and fasteners are concealed within the interior of the assembled rail member. The railing system provides a simple and efficient way to install railings, and is particularly suited for assembly of railings at an incline to the horizontal.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 2002Date of Patent: June 22, 2004Inventors: Paul Robert Zen, Sergio Luigi Zen
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Patent number: 6745529Abstract: A pole anchor installation having an anchor base with a central threaded open-ended hole mounted in a receptacle formed in a planking or concrete of a deck. An elongated sleeve having external threads is threadably fitted into the threaded opening of the anchor base so that the sleeve upwardly projects to insertably receive a substantial portion of a pole intended to be supported. A threaded blockage plug is received in the threaded opening of the anchor base when the sleeve and pole are not employed preventing clogging of the threaded opening. In a wood foundation, angular threaded bores are provided into which mounting screws are placed to secure the anchor base. In a concrete block or cement slab, reinforcing rods are carried on the underside of the anchor base and are embedded within the material of the block or slab. In either type of installation, the top surface of the support anchor base is flush with the surrounding surface of either the wood planking or the cement block or cement slab.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2002Date of Patent: June 8, 2004Inventor: Juan J. Beltran
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Patent number: 6719278Abstract: A composite handrail system comprises a plurality of upright posts. A plurality of composite rails extends between adjacent upright posts at two points on the adjacent upright posts, the composite rails each having an internal reinforcing element, friction fitted into a composite channel extending longitudinally inside each composite rail, and a composite cover friction fitted over each composite channel. A plurality of composite sleeve-spindles extends between the composite rails, and a plurality of connectors couples the composite rails to the composite sleeve-spindles. The connectors are adapted to be mounted to the composite rails, and are adapted to receive and friction fit to the composite sleeve-spindles.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2001Date of Patent: April 13, 2004Assignee: Brite Manufacturing Inc.Inventor: Bob Bryan
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Patent number: 6715182Abstract: A self-closing safety gate hinge comprises a bracket, a bottom seat, a top seat and a hinge pin. The bracket is attached to a top of a gate post. The bottom seat is attached to one side of the bracket and an inclined top surface is cambered on the bottom seat. A through hole is defined vertically through the bottom seat. The top seat has an inclined bottom surface corresponding to the inclined top surface and is attached to one side of a gate at top. A stepped through hole is defined vertically through the top seat. The hinge pin is mounted through a spring and the through holes and is held in place by a C-clip.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 2002Date of Patent: April 6, 2004Inventor: Shu-Chen Cheng
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Publication number: 20040051093Abstract: A fence assembly includes a plurality of spaced, elongated hollow post members. Each of the plurality of elongated post members has an outer wall. The outer wall has a generally H-shaped cross-section. The elongated post member includes a first side and a second side. The first and second sides are oriented opposite each other. One or more inner rib is attached to an inner surface of the outer wall and extends between the first side and the second side to define a middle chamber of the elongated hollow post member. One or more reinforcing member may be positioned in the middle chamber of one or more of the plurality of elongated hollow members to provide support. A plurality of fence panels is fastened between adjacent pairs of the plurality of spaced, elongated post members.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 16, 2002Publication date: March 18, 2004Inventor: Norman Manning
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Patent number: 6702259Abstract: A guard rail system fabricated from standard-sized components, preferably extruded, comprises balusters fastened to a lower rail and to an upper retainer at fixed intervals. The balusters are provided with central bores for receiving fasteners such as screws through predrilled holes in the upper retainer and lower rail. A hand rail is slip-fitted over the upper retainer in locking relation, to provide integrated guard rail sections. Guard rail sections so assembled are fastened to end posts, preferably using mounting brackets having a flanged arm which nests in grooves or recesses in the upper retainer and lower rail to provide a safe, secure and aesthetically appealing guard rail.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2001Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: Compos-A-Tron Research & Development Inc.Inventor: Jim Pratt
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Patent number: 6698725Abstract: A slotted cap for a corner or support post of a fence, particularly a chain link or “Cyclone” (trademark) or “Hurricane” (trademark) fence. In a preferred embodiment, the slotted fence post cap includes a cylindrical cap wall which is mounted on the upper end of the vertical fence post, and a horizontal adjusting slot is fitted on one side and a fixed nipple is fitted on the opposite side of the cap wall. The fixed nipple receives the horizontal top rail of a fixed fence segment or run, and the adjusting slot is fitted with an adjustable nipple which receives the top rail of an adjustable fence segment or run in construction of the fence. The adjustable nipple is typically bolted to the cap wall at the adjusting slot, and the bolt can be loosened to facilitate adjustment of the adjustable nipple and attached adjustable fence segment into a selected angular relationship with respect to the fixed fence segment.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2000Date of Patent: March 2, 2004Inventor: Tracy L. Berry
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Patent number: 6698726Abstract: A fence rail clip for attaching a fence rail to a vertical fence post is disclosed. The rail clip has a bracket and a rail connector. The bracket may be secured to the vertical post. The rail connector has a rail receiving receptacle into which an end of a rail may be inserted and the connector is adapted to slidingly engage the bracket. When the position of the rail connector is altered by sliding the rail connector along the bracket, the angle of the rail receiving receptacle is altered, thereby changing the angle at which a rail may be attached to the post.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2002Date of Patent: March 2, 2004Inventor: Robert E. Platt