Bracket Patents (Class 256/65.03)
  • Publication number: 20100078613
    Abstract: In a fence having a plurality of posts, vertically-spaced rails extend across the posts. Horizontally-spaced union strips are extended across the rails, and sheeted infill material is positioned within the open faces of the union strips, so that the sheeted infill material extends from the first union strip to the second union strip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2009
    Publication date: April 1, 2010
    Applicant: Payne Fence Products, LLC
    Inventor: John F. Payne
  • Patent number: 7669836
    Abstract: A bracket having a main body with attachment structure for fixing the bracket to a first post and fastening means for securing the bracket relative to a second post. The bracket is preferably used for strengthening a post assembly for a fence or trellis system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: Trigg's Trellis Supplies Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Rodney Trigg
  • Publication number: 20100025648
    Abstract: A pre-manufactured fence system is constructed of horizontal rails, posts that form a fence “field surface or area” and pickets or panels that complete the field. The posts and rails are hollow extruded members of polymer or metal material that are interconnected by bracket members that fit within bracket compartments of the rails. Bracket bar members are connected with the bracket members and are received within key-ways of the posts to properly position the rails with respect to the posts. The extruded components perform fence component positioning and establish pre-determined dimensioning and locations of the accompanying parts and pieces of the complete fence system and provide for component attachment that is not visible when the fence installation is completed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2008
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Inventors: Herbert L. Walpole, Loren R. Hill, Joel W. Bolin
  • Patent number: 7621510
    Abstract: A barrier, such as fence panel, is formed from a plurality of channel-shaped rails and plurality of upright members. Each upright member traverses the rail channels of the rails forming the barrier and is mechanically connected to the rail, such that the upright member is selectively tiltable with respect to the rail within an angular adjustment range. The mechanical connection between rail and upright member may be formed by a weld, such as a resistance weld, by a permanent adhesive, or with a fastener such as bolt or screw. A tab that extends from the rail web may be used to connect a rail to an upright member. The tab may depend from a bracket installed within the rail channel, or may be cut out and bent into the channel from the web. The tab is rotatable about an axis situated at or adjacent the web.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Inventors: Edward L. Gibbs, Fred L. Givens, Gary W. Vonnahme
  • Publication number: 20090218555
    Abstract: A system for securing polymer fencing to at least two fence posts or similar support structures spaced apart at defined intervals. The system includes an elongated polymer fencing member having first and second opposed ends. The polymer fencing member extends across the at least two fence posts. The system also includes a retainer for securing the first end of the polymer fencing member to one of the at least two fence posts. In use, the system prevents the application of a twisting force to the at least two fence posts when tension is applied to the polymer fencing member. A related method for securing polymer fencing to a fence post to prevent the fence post from twisting when tension is applied to the polymer fencing is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2008
    Publication date: September 3, 2009
    Inventor: Russell Dennis
  • Publication number: 20090212271
    Abstract: A bracket for mounting a rail to a vertical post. The bracket includes a base with an arcuate front wall and a housing that is selectively movable along that front wall. The housing itself has an arcuate front wall that is oriented at right angles to the arcuate front wall of the base. The bracket further includes a rail connector that is selectively movable along the front wall of the housing. The rail connector engages an end of the rail and holds the rail at both a vertical and a horizontal angle relative the post. The vertical and horizontal angle of the rail to the post can be changed by selectively moving the rail connector along the front wall of the housing and moving the housing along the front wall of the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2008
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventor: Robert E. Platt
  • Patent number: 7571897
    Abstract: A metal fence post for use with a wood fence system and a method of constructing a wood fence. The fence post comprises an elongated post member and a bracket attached thereto to support rails and pickets. The post member is of the type commonly available as vineyard posts and signposts, having a back wall and a pair of outwardly sloping sidewalls with short wing flanges attached thereto. The back wall and sidewalls form a channel. The bracket has a center section and a pair of outwardly sloping sidewalls that each have outwardly extended flanges. The flanges are generally in the same plane and in spaced apart relation to the center section. The center section of the bracket is received in the channel, placing the flanges in abutting relation with the wing flanges. A portion of the fence post is exposed so as to enhance the aesthetics of the fence.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Inventor: David D. Heinz
  • Patent number: 7568680
    Abstract: A rail clip assembly for connecting a horizontal fence rail to a vertical fence post. The rail clip assembly comprises a housing that is slidably engaged with at least one mounting spacer and a first leg of an L-shaped mounting bracket. The second leg of the mounting bracket abuts the underside of the housing and supports the same. An end of the rail is inserted into a chamber formed in the housing and a fastener is used to secure the second leg of the mounting bracket, the housing and the end of the rail together. The rail clip assembly aids in preventing the rail from disengaging from the housing when a lateral force is applied to the rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Inventor: Robert E. Platt
  • Publication number: 20090184303
    Abstract: A kit of parts for assembly into a balustrade (1), the kit comprising rails (3), baluster brackets (6), posts (2), connectors (5) for connecting the posts (2) to the rails (3) and rail-to-rail connectors (8) for connecting two rails (3A, 3B) in a parallel and spaced apart relationship. The baluster brackets (6) and/or the rails (3) are shaped so as to ensure that each bracket (6) is engagable with a rail (3) in a desired configuration. There is further disclosed a balustrade incorporating one or more of the above parts and a method of installing a balustrade (1) on a substrate (5).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2007
    Publication date: July 23, 2009
    Applicant: RICHARD BURBIDGE LIMITED
    Inventors: Anthony Jones, Paul Hughes
  • Patent number: 7559535
    Abstract: A guardrail support, attachment and positioning block used to space guardrails from support posts is disclosed. The positioning or spacer block is a generally rectangular block having corded-out cavities to reduce weight and tabs or projections for cooperatively engaging the sides and top of a support post as well as the edges of the guardrail during roadway safety barrier system installation. Webbing within one or more of the cavities may be used for additional structural support. To optimize the strength to weight characteristics of the spacer block, the spacer block may be formed by low-pressure injection molding. The spacer block may also be formed from virgin and/or recycled plastic material and/or include virgin or recycled rubber material, such as that obtained from the regrind of used tires, and/or another elastomeric materials from other sources.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Assignee: K.E.S.S. Inc.
    Inventor: David T. King
  • Publication number: 20090166598
    Abstract: A metal fence post for use with a wood fence system and a method of constructing a wood fence. The fence post comprises an elongated post member and a bracket attached thereto to support rails and pickets. The post member is of the type commonly available as vineyard posts and signposts, having a back wall and a pair of outwardly sloping sidewalls with short wing flanges attached thereto. The back wall and sidewalls form a channel. The bracket has a center section and a pair of outwardly sloping sidewalls that each have outwardly extended flanges. The flanges are generally in the same plane and in spaced apart relation to the center section. The center section of the bracket is received in the channel, placing the flanges in abutting relation with the wing flanges. A portion of the fence post is exposed so as to enhance the aesthetics of the fence.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2007
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Inventor: David D. Heinz
  • Publication number: 20090159865
    Abstract: There is described a post assembly for a safety fence for bordering an elevated work area, the work area including a wall section supporting an elevated floor section to be bordered by the safety fence, the post assembly comprising a stanchion having upper and lower sections, the lower section having a first upper and a second lower plate fixedly connected thereto, the first and second plates being vertically spaced apart by a pre-determined distance, the upper portion having one or more brackets connected thereto for supporting horizontal safety rails which extend between adjacent post assemblies, and a third plate connectable to the wall section at a selected location, the third plate including means for a torque-resistant connection to the first plate to hold the stanchion in a vertically upright position relative to the wall section, wherein the second plate is connectable to the wall section when the first plate is connected to the third plate, thereby securing the stanchion to the wall section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2008
    Publication date: June 25, 2009
    Inventors: Joseph CARVALHO, Jose CARVALHO
  • Publication number: 20090152524
    Abstract: A fence stabilization system has a plurality of vertical fence support posts, each having hollow interiors extending the full length of each post. A column insert is positioned within each support post and extends substantially the length of the post. Each column insert is adjacent to, but spaced apart from the outer wall of the support post. The column insert has openings which are aligned with openings in the support post itself for the insertion of horizontal fence rail members into and through both the column insert and support post openings. Locking brackets with threaded connectors are located near the upper ends of the column insert and support post for securing horizontal rail members to the post. Threaded adjustment connectors are located near the lower ends of the column insert and support post to adjust the position of the column insert within the post and to secure the column insert position within the post.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2007
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Inventor: Christopher Charles Keller
  • Patent number: 7543802
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Assignee: Alpa Lumber Inc.
    Inventors: Gabriel Petta, Rolf J. Ohrstrom
  • Publication number: 20090140228
    Abstract: A hinge apparatus includes a first support member for attachment along a first surface of a vertical member such as a fence post. The first support member includes at least one flange angularly extending from the first support member for attachment along a second surface adjacent to the first surface of the vertical member. A hinge coupled to the first support member, and a second support member includes an extended element coupled to the hinge. The second support member attaches to a first surface of a swinging member, such as a fence gate, opposite the first support member. The second support member includes at least one flange angularly extending from the second support member for attachment along a second surface of the swinging member adjacent to the first surface of the swinging member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2007
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Applicant: EASTERN WHOLESALE FENCE CO., INC.
    Inventor: Peter E. Williams, JR.
  • Publication number: 20090127533
    Abstract: A banister that mounts on a stair wall comprising two parallel handrails and a plurality of balusters, each baluster being embedded within both rails. The stand-alone banister resembles a ladder where the rungs are not perpendicular to the two parallel side members. The banister is mounted to a wall rather than to the stairs or the floor at the landing or the opening of the stair well. It is mounted such that the balusters are vertical, and the handrails are angled so as to be parallel to the staircase angle. Therefore, one handrail will be higher than the other when mounted on the wall. The upper handrail will be positioned at a height convenient for gripping by an adult, while the lower handrail will be positioned at a height convenient for gripping by a child. When a child ascends or descends a staircase, he or she will either grip the lower handrail or the balusters to provide support and balance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2009
    Publication date: May 21, 2009
    Inventor: Glenn Gorab
  • Publication number: 20090114895
    Abstract: A method for installing a post and railing assembly includes the steps of providing a post structure with a mounting bracket, mounting the post structure, lowering the end of a railing member onto the mounting bracket, providing a trim cover, wrapping the trim cover around the bracket and railing end, and locking the trim cover around the railing and bracket. A railing mounting assembly includes a U-shaped bracket having a pair of sidewalls and a bottom wall, the bottom wall comprising a pair of platform portions for supporting a railing, and a pair of recessed portions separated from one another by a channel, and a trim cover attached around the bracket, the trim cover having a slit and at least one locking member projecting through the channel of the U-shaped bracket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2008
    Publication date: May 7, 2009
    Applicant: RAILING DYNAMICS INC.
    Inventors: CHRISTOPHER J. TERRELS, Christopher Michael Schneider, Jason Michael Werner
  • Publication number: 20090026431
    Abstract: A picket and rail fence is provided. In one embodiment, the invention relates to a fence including a rail including a tube having a rectangular cross section including a top, a bottom, two sides, and at least one cutout, a picket including a bar configured to fit within the at least one cutout of the rail, a retaining bar having a lengthwise rectangular shape, the retaining bar including a first substantially flat longitudinal portion, a second substantially flat longitudinal portion, wherein the first portion and the second portion are separated by a middle portion having a cross section forming a protrusion extending away from the first portion and the second portion, wherein the retaining bar is configured to slide within the rail such that a bottom of the retaining bar abuts one of the two sides of the rail, and wherein the picket bar includes a notch configured to receive at least a portion of the protrusion of the retaining bar.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2008
    Publication date: January 29, 2009
    Inventors: Arie Tremblay, Mark Kofford, Kevin Love
  • Publication number: 20080272353
    Abstract: A post mount guide includes a tubular body having a throughhole for non-frictionally freely slidably receiving therethrough an upright support portion of a post mount, at least one pair of mounting panels having each panel positioned 90° from the other and adjacent to one another, the panels extending spaced apart from and connected at one end to the tubular body, wherein the mounting panels of each pair of panels are adapted to resiliently bend and configured to receive and retain a fastener therethrough, and a stop mechanism is included with each pair of panels for stopping the panels from bending beyond a fixed position toward the tubular body. The stop mechanism includes first and second end portions of the adjacent mounting panels, respectively, being configured for reversible abutting engagement with one another upon bending inward to the fixed position toward the tubular body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2007
    Publication date: November 6, 2008
    Inventor: James G. Fattori
  • Publication number: 20080272352
    Abstract: A combined guardrail and cable safety system is disclosed. In one aspect, a safety barrier incorporating the teachings of the present disclosure may include a plurality of cable posts spaced from each other and disposed adjacent to a roadway. At least two cables may be releasably engaged with and supported by the cable posts. The cable posts and the at least two cables may cooperate with each other to prevent a vehicle from leaving the roadway. A plurality of guardrail posts may also spaced from each other and disposed adjacent to the roadway longitudinally spaced from the plurality of cable post. A box beam guardrail beam may be attached to the plurality of guardrail posts. The at least two cables may operably extend from the cable posts to engage respective cable anchor brackets attached to the box beam guardrail beam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2008
    Publication date: November 6, 2008
    Inventors: Don J. Gripne, Charles R. Norton, Elzard A. Sikkema, Brian E. Smith
  • Publication number: 20080210920
    Abstract: A barrier safety system (3) for supporting a barrier rail (1) between a pair of frangible upright posts (2) includes a pair of pins (8) insertable in respective sockets (4) in the posts, the pins each having a weakened portion designed to break upon the application of a vertically downward load onto the barrier rail within or above a predetermined range. In one embodiment stop members (10) are provided to vary the distance the support pin may be inserted into the socket for accommodating different sizes of barriers, to thereby ensure that similar leverage is applied to the weakened portion by different sized barrier rails such that they all break the pin when a similar load has been applied to the top of the barrier rail. In another, preferred, embodiment the weakened portion is in the form of a generally ‘V’-shaped notch (9a) providing a sharply defined fracture point for the pin when under load.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2008
    Publication date: September 4, 2008
    Inventor: Robin Edward Seel
  • Patent number: 7407152
    Abstract: A fencing system includes a post mount mountable on a foundation and having a vertically extending outer surface. A post insert sits atop the post mount and has an outer surface disposed outwardly of the post mount outer surface. The post insert has an upper sidewall which extends upwardly of the post mount and defines an upwardly opening cavity. A post includes a sidewall having an inner surface defining a cavity therein in which the post mount and post insert are slidably received with the outer surface of the post insert preferably closely adjacent the post inner surface. A rail is mounted via a rail mounting bracket to the post insert. Threaded fasteners extend from the rail mounting bracket through respective holes in the post and are threaded into mounting holes in the post insert to provide a strong connection for the mounting of the rail mounting bracket and rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Inventor: Robert E. Platt
  • Publication number: 20080179581
    Abstract: A picket fence kit for a picket fence section includes an enclosure, a hollow post, a hollow top rail, a hollow bottom rail, and a plurality of pickets. The enclosure surrounds the post. The post surrounds the two rails and the plurality of pickets, and each rail surrounds a plurality of pickets. Pickets are axially aligned with each other in pairs, two rails are located side-by-side within the post, and two pairs of axially aligned pickets are positioned side-by-side within a rail. The post further surrounds a pair of axially aligned pickets not surrounded by a rail. The kit further includes a post cap, a shipping cap, a plurality of picket caps, a set of rail brackets and a set of self-tapping screws. A picket fence kit for a for a picket fence gate includes an enclosure, a hollow post, a first gate upright, a second gate upright, a hollow top rail, a hollow bottom rail, and a plurality of pickets. The enclosure surrounds the post.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2007
    Publication date: July 31, 2008
    Inventor: Paul Mulgrew
  • Publication number: 20080157048
    Abstract: An insert of this invention is attached to a post and secures an upper and/or lower rail to the post. The upper, lower rail is secured by disposing a bracket or extension within a reinforcing member, the reinforcing member present within a cavity defined in the upper or lower rail.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2007
    Publication date: July 3, 2008
    Inventors: Matthew L. Beachler, Timothy D. Lusk
  • Patent number: 7377491
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2008
    Inventor: Maurizio Fuoco
  • Publication number: 20080029748
    Abstract: A fence includes an upright post and one or more rails radiating from the post. An arrangement for connecting the post to the rail or rails includes a carrier that can be mounted on the post and one or more holders for the rail or rails. Each holder is attached to the carrier by a hinge that allows the respective holder to pivot or rotate relative to the carrier in two different planes. An accessory bracket for flexible rails and a gate hinge may also be connected to the carrier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2007
    Publication date: February 7, 2008
    Applicant: Final Fence, Inc.
    Inventor: Garrett N. Ford
  • Patent number: 7306203
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Inventor: Robert E. Platt
  • Patent number: 7216855
    Abstract: A fence rail mounting clip for connecting a hollow fence rail to a vertical post. The mounting clip includes a base that is selectively interlockable with a bracket. The bracket has a front surface with a peripheral wall extending normal to and outwardly therefrom to define a fence rail receptacle for receiving an end of the rail therein. A rail support extends normal to and outwardly from the front surface of the bracket from a position within the rail receptacle. The rail support is separated from the peripheral wall by a gap. The rail support terminates in an outermost edge which lies further from the front surface of the bracket than does the outermost edge of the peripheral wall. When the rail is received in the rail receptacle, the walls of the rail are received within the gap between the rail support and peripheral wall and are wedged therebetween, and the rail support extends into the bore of the hollow rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2007
    Inventor: Robert E. Platt
  • Patent number: 7168688
    Abstract: A fence section has upper and lower brackets that mount to one side of a post. Each bracket has a pair of rail mounting plates extending from opposite side edges of a post mounting plate. Upper and lower rails extend between the upper and lower mounting brackets. Each of the rails has a pair of sidewalls and an offset skirt extending from a base section, defining an elongated slot. The rails have ends that slide over and receive the rail mounting plates of the brackets. A panel has upper and lower edges that fit in the slot of the upper and lower rails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2007
    Assignee: The Burly Corporation
    Inventor: David R. Davenport
  • Patent number: 7134647
    Abstract: A lock secures a first member to a second member, such as a fence rail to a post. The lock may include a lock body, a first locking element and a second locking element. The first locking element and second locking element may secure the lock to the first member and second member, respectively. Preferably, the lock is hidden from view in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: Digger Specialties, Inc.
    Inventor: Loren R. Graber
  • Patent number: 7125002
    Abstract: A fence rail mounting clip for connecting a hollow fence rail to a vertical post. The mounting clip includes a base that is selectively interlockable with a bracket. The bracket has a front surface with a peripheral wall extending normal to and outwardly therefrom to define a fence rail receptacle for receiving an end of the rail therein. A rail support extends normal to and outwardly from the front surface of the bracket from a position within the rail receptacle. The rail support is separated from the peripheral wall by a gap. The rail support terminates in an outermost edge which lies further from the front surface of the bracket than does the outermost edge of the peripheral wall. When the rail is received in the rail receptacle, the walls of the rail are received within the gap between the rail support and peripheral wall and are wedged therebetween, and the rail support extends into the bore of the hollow rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Inventor: Robert E. Platt
  • Patent number: 7121530
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Inventor: John Preta
  • Patent number: 7114706
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Assignee: Alumi-Guard, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeff Bemis, William Woodard, Dan Perry
  • Patent number: 7090201
    Abstract: A fencing system is provided that is constructed from durable polymer components that are sufficiently rigid and durable while providing an integrated modular assembly that is easy to assembly and well suited to a do-it-yourself marketplace. In particular, the modular fence is an integrated system of interfitting vinyl components and a unique polycarbonate or ABS clip for interconnection thereof. The fence includes vertical posts with horizontal members extending therebetween. The horizontal members include grooves therein to support fence panels in the form of web panels. The horizontal members are connected to the vertical members utilizing a novel and uniquely configured connector element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Assignee: Simplicity Products, LLC
    Inventor: John J. Brucker
  • Patent number: 7077386
    Abstract: A hinge assembly which can be inserted into the bore of an end-bored bluster, fastened to the inside of the bore, and pivotally attached to a flange suitable for attachment to a rail. The hinge assembly requires no external modification to the normally exposed surfaces of the baluster. The flange includes an H-shaped foot which may be concealed in a groove defined by a hand rail or a shoe rail. The pivot point is raised slightly above the inner surface of the groove to prevent any unsightly gap, termed “bird's' mouth” in the industry, adjacent the baluster.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Assignee: Harris Trust and Savings Bank
    Inventors: John M. Gray, Jr., David J. Wynne
  • Patent number: 7048259
    Abstract: A rail bracket mounting system, including a bracket that is attached to a post. The bracket is formed to support the notching of a rail. The end of a rail is then nested into the bracket, and is supported by the bracket. The rail is then secured to the bracket by fasteners such as screws, and a cover may then be placed over the bracket, housing the securing fasteners. The rail may be hollow or solid. A hollow rail may be reinforced along its entire length by the insertion of one or more reinforcing members through a hollow portion of the rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Assignee: Kroy Building Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Randy R. Quaintance, Ronald R. West
  • Patent number: 6944989
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Inventor: John Bradley
  • 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: 6874766
    Abstract: A deck railing section comprises synthetic posts held spaced from one another by top and bottom rail members. Each of the rail members has a multiple piece construction including first and second interlocking synthetic rail pieces and a metallic reinforcing insert. The insert has holes at post attachment locations along the insert. Each post has screw ports to opposite ends of the post. Rail members are secured to the posts by threaded attachment members passing through the holes in the inserts and into the screw ports of the posts. The first rail pieces are trapped between the posts and the inserts. The second rail pieces lock onto the first rail pieces hiding the reinforcing inserts internally of the rail members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Assignee: Royal Group Technologies Limited
    Inventor: Tony Curatolo
  • Patent number: 6874767
    Abstract: A high security palisade fence is formed from a plurality of vertical posts, each of which is characterized by a pair of flange sections which are joined by an intermediate flat web section having a double-walled structure. One or more cable passageways are formed in each post. Each adjacent pair of posts is interconnected by a plurality of parallel rails. Each rail is formed with an internal tray, within which a strengthening cable may extend. Vertical pickets are attached to the rails. The pickets are preferably characterized by a W-shaped profile, and preferably include longitudinal strengthening ribs. Each picket has a flat attachment surface in which a plurality of subsurface recesses are formed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Inventor: Edward L. Gibbs
  • 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: 6860472
    Abstract: A modular railing system is disclosed which is based on commercially available tubing, which is connected into a railing by especially designed fittings, which connect to each other and the rails and posts of the railing system to allow all possible standard rail configuration. All connections are thereby held together by mechanical connections, instead of welded connections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Assignee: Suncor Stainless, Inc.
    Inventors: Roman F. Striebel, Patrick A. Striebel
  • Patent number: 6813863
    Abstract: The automobile protection system for a multiple car garage comprises a cushion positioned between parking spaces of the garage, which cushion is suspended and sized to extend at least along the length of doors of cars parked in the spaces to keep the door of one car from striking the adjacent car when opened. Further, the cushion is suspended in a manner so as not to interfere with operation of an overhead door of the garage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2004
    Inventor: James J. Duffy
  • Publication number: 20040206948
    Abstract: The present invention relates to flexible fence and gate systems, which are flexible to alterations, have common parts, are easy to assembly, durable, and have long service life. The frame can be made of pre-coated galvanized steel parts. The panel is held in a U-shaped slotted rectangular fence frame formed by a parallel pair of L-shaped retainer angles mounted back-to-back or face-to-face on the stringers to accommodate a wide choice of panel styles, materials and thicknesses without adding any new components. Another feature provides a panel insert which can be sandwiched between two panels to further suppress noise. Another feature relates to adjustable post angle adapters. Another feature relates to a gate width opening adjustment member using a sliding rail at the far end. A gate post threaded insert can be also used at the gate hinges to distribute the load of the gate across the gate hinge hardware.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2004
    Publication date: October 21, 2004
    Inventor: Alan Rick Lappen
  • Patent number: 6802496
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2004
    Inventor: John Preta
  • Publication number: 20040119060
    Abstract: A bracket for supporting an elongated rail with respect to a post includes a bracket body with a rail supporting portion and an attachment portion. The rail supporting portion has an opening defined therein for receiving the end of the rail when the bracket body is installed. The opening has a central axis. The attachment portion has a first surface and a second surface spaced therefrom. A fastener receiving passage is defined from the first surface to the second surface. The passage is formed by a first bore extending from the first surface part way to the second surface and a second bore extending part way from the second surface to the first surface. The first and second bores interconnect to find the passage. The central axis of the first and second bores are each generally parallel to the central axis in the opening. The axis of the first and second bores are offset with respect to one another by a distance greater than half the difference in their widths.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2003
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventors: Richard W. Cantley, Howard Sagermann, Brian David Wood, Peter Paul Heysel, Frederick J. Wheeler
  • Patent number: 6705598
    Abstract: A fence post connector includes a securement section for securing the post connector to a fence post and at least one receiving section for receiving an item to be joined. The item to be joined may be the end of a stabilizing fence post, a gate hinge, etc. For attachment to a T-post, a closure member captures the T-post between a pair of spaced arms extending from the receiving section and travel of the post connector along the T-post is limited by adjacent lugs extending from the T-post. These lugs may cooperate with the closure member, an arm, or the portion of the connector spacing the arms, to limit sliding. For attachment to a wood post, at least one arm abuts the post with an opening through which a fastener, such as a nail or screw, extends into the post. The post connector is generally used to connect fence posts in reinforcing configuration and loosely connects the various fence posts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2004
    Inventor: Charles R. Collins
  • Publication number: 20040046162
    Abstract: A modular picket fence including a pair of vertical posts positioned at suitable distance 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, thereby preventing vertical movement of the vertical pickets with respect to the horizontal rails.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventor: Alan Qing Zhu
  • Patent number: 6702259
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Assignee: Compos-A-Tron Research & Development Inc.
    Inventor: Jim Pratt
  • Patent number: 6698726
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Inventor: Robert E. Platt