U.S. patent application number 10/342170 was filed with the patent office on 2003-08-07 for portable collapsible corral fence and method of use.
Invention is credited to Anderson, John D., Peach, Walter J., Ray, Susan R..
Application Number | 20030146426 10/342170 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 27668946 |
Filed Date | 2003-08-07 |
United States Patent
Application |
20030146426 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Ray, Susan R. ; et
al. |
August 7, 2003 |
Portable collapsible corral fence and method of use
Abstract
A portable and collapsible fence that can be conveniently stored
and transported in a lightweight carrying case. The fence includes
panels having telescopic rail sections and telescopic posts. The
middle section of each fence panel includes a series of spaced
"rail pairs." The use of the rail pairs adds structural stability
to the fence panels and allows the fence panels to utilize many
identical parts, such that the panels can be manufactured
efficiently and economically. The fence is also preferably formed
of lightweight polymer so that it is resilient and easily
transported by hand in a relatively small carrying case provided
therefor.
Inventors: |
Ray, Susan R.; (Gosport,
IN) ; Anderson, John D.; (Aurora, IL) ; Peach,
Walter J.; (South Elgin, IL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Michael C. Bartol
Lowe Gray Steele & Darko, LLP
111 Monument Circle, Suite 4600
P.O.Box 44924
Indianapolis
IN
46204-0924
US
|
Family ID: |
27668946 |
Appl. No.: |
10/342170 |
Filed: |
January 13, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60347956 |
Jan 12, 2002 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
256/59 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E04H 17/18 20130101;
A01K 3/00 20130101; E01F 13/02 20130101; A01K 1/0035 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
256/59 |
International
Class: |
E04H 017/14 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A portable and collapsible fence panel, comprising: a plurality
of rail sections connected to one another, said rail sections
being, expandable and contractible with respect to one another in a
substantially horizontal direction; a first of said rail sections
comprising a plurality of spaced rails disposed substantially
parallel to one another; and a second of said rail sections
comprising a plurality of rail pairs disposed substantially
parallel to one another.
2. The fence panel of claim 1 wherein said plurality of said rail
sections comprises a third rail section, said second rail section
being intermediate said first and third rail sections.
3. The fence panel of claim 2, wherein said first rail section and
said third rail section comprise end posts at distal ends
thereof.
4. The fence panel of claim 3, wherein said end posts are
expandable in a vertical direction.
5. The fence panel of claim 4, wherein said end posts
telescope.
6. The fence panel of claim 1, wherein said rail sections telescope
with respect to one another.
7. The fence panel of claim 1, wherein said fence panel is
comprised of a polymeric material.
8. The fence panel of claim 2, wherein said polymeric material is
stabilized for resistance to ultraviolet radiation.
9. The fence panel of claim 1, wherein said rail sections are
comprised of cylindrically shaped members.
10. The fence panel of claim 1, further comprising: a third rail
section, said second rail section being intermediate said first and
third rail sections; a left end post connected to said first rail
section and a right end post connected to said third rail section;
a first clamping member connecting said first rail section to said
left end post and a second clamping member connecting said third
rail section to said right end posts; said first and second
clamping members being substantially identical and including
connecting members, said first clamping member being positioned at
a first vertical elevation on said left end post and said second
clamping member being positioned at a second elevation on said
right end post, said first and second elevations chosen such that
said connecting members of said first and second clamping members
vertically align with one another; and whereby, two of said fence
panels may be connected by connecting a first said clamping member
of one of said two fence panels with a second said clamping member
of the other of said two fence panels.
11. The fence panel of claim 1, further comprising: a third rail
section, said second rail section being intermediate said first and
third rail sections; and said first rail section and said third
rail section movable horizontally in substantially opposite
directions with respect to said second rail section.
12. The fence panel of claim 11, wherein said first rail section
includes first rails and said second rail section includes second
rails, said first rails and said second rails being vertically
offset.
13. The fence panel of claim 1, wherein said rail pairs comprise
two rail members disposed in a common vertical plane.
14. A portable and collapsible fence panel, comprising: a plurality
of rail sections connected to one another, said rail sections being
expandable and contractible with respect to one another in a
substantially horizontal direction; said fence panel including a
first end post having a first connecting member and a second end
post having a second connecting member; and said first and second
connecting members being substantially identical, said first
connecting member being positioned at a first vertical elevation on
said first end post and said second connecting member being
positioned at a second elevation on said second end post, said
first and second elevations chosen such that said connecting
members vertically align with one another, whereby multiple said
panels can be connected.
15. The fence panel of claim 14, wherein said rail sections
comprise two end rail sections and a center rail section, said end
rail sections being movable horizontally in substantially opposite
directions with respect to one another.
16. A method of forming a fence from collapsible panels, said
method comprising: (a) vertically and horizontally expanding the
panels; (b) selecting a shape of an outline which the assembled
fence will occupy; (c) connecting the panels together; and (d)
pivoting the panels about one another to form the shape.
17. The method of claim 16, further comprising disassembling the
panels and placing them into the carrying bag.
18. The method of claim 16, further comprising removing the panels
from a carrying bag prior to step (a).
19. The method of claim 16, further comprising placing the
assembled fence against a trailer, whereby the trailer forms a side
of the fence.
20. The method of claim 19, further comprising connecting one of
the panels to a connector member mounted on the trailer.
21. The method of claim 16, further comprising placing at least one
horse with the confines of the fence before the assembly is
completed.
22. The method of claim 16, further comprising, after step (d),
separating two of the panels from one another, leading a horse into
the confines defined by the fence and reconnecting the two
panels.
23. The fence panel of claim 1, wherein said rail sections are
comprised of members having a polygonal cross section.
24. The fence panel of claim 2, wherein said end posts further
comprise one of the foot and a stake member.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent
Application Ser. No. 60/347,956, filed Jan. 12, 2002.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates generally to barriers and more
particularly to portable fences and other structures that enclose
an area.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Animals such as horses are typically transported for
endurance, rodeo and other events by trailers that are known in the
art. Once the trailer arrives at the destination of the event, it
is desirable to provide a secure and comfortable area for the
horses. It is known in the art to provide fence panels that can be
assembled together once the trailer arrives at the destination.
Unfortunately, these known systems have many drawbacks.
[0004] For example, one known and commercially available portable
corral consists of multiple panels that are available in 5 foot or
8 foot widths, 50 inch height, and are 18 to 25 pounds per panel. A
mounting system is available to mount the panels exteriorly of the
trailer during transport. Undesirably, the trailer becomes rather
unsightly and aesthetically unpleasing with the panels mounted
thereto. Further, the disassembled fence occupies an undesirably
large amount of space. As mentioned, the panels are 5 to 8 feet
wide, and the six to eight panels required for an adequate size
fence can occupy about a foot depth when stacked and attached to
the trailer. In addition to the cost of the panels, a person using
this type of trailer mounted system must also separately purchase a
trailer mounting kit.
[0005] Another known portable horse corral consists of a reel
attached to the outside of the trailer from which a plastic fence
having about 2 inch square grids is unrolled. Self-driving posts
are provided with this system to hold the plastic fence. While
lighter than the portable panels just described, this plastic fence
is still mounted to the outside of the trailer and therefore is
undesirable from an aesthetic standpoint. Further, the fence,
itself is unsightly when assembled, appearing much like the
standard fencing that is erected around construction sites.
[0006] It is known to provide various barriers that can be expanded
or contracted. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,465,262 discloses a
portable barrier which includes two panels that are slidable
horizontally relative to one another by means of sleeves and pins.
Each of the panels includes two sections telescoped together and
moveable vertically relative to each other to expand or contract
the barrier. The sections are held in the desired telescoped
position by means of screws. Applications of the disclosed barrier
are directed to using it as a barrier between room, e.g., to
provide a barrier for toddlers.
[0007] U.S. Pat. No. 5,842,685 discloses a temporary guard rail
system that includes a plurality of upright stanchions having
mounting brackets integrally formed or attached thereto that are
connected by a plurality of vertically spaced, generally horizontal
side rails extending end to end. The tubular guard rails are
fabricated in a plurality of sections that may be slidably engaged,
one inside another, to provide a telescoping adjustment of
length.
[0008] It is desirable to improve upon the prior art noted above to
provide a lightweight portable fence and to avoid mounting the
fence panels to the outside of the trailer in order to transport
them.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] The present invention is a portable and collapsible fence
that can be conveniently stored and transported in a lightweight
carrying case. The fence includes panels having telescopic rail
sections and telescopic posts. The fence panels utilize many
identical parts such that the panels can be manufactured
economically.
[0010] In one form thereof, the present invention provides a
portable and collapsible fence panel. The panel comprises a
plurality of rail sections connected to one another, the rail
sections being expandable and contractible with respect to one
another in a substantially horizontal direction. A first of the
rail sections comprises a plurality of spaced rails disposed
substantially parallel to one another. A second of the rail
sections comprises a plurality of rail pairs disposed substantially
parallel to one another.
[0011] Preferably, the separate rails of the pairs are fixed
relative to one another and occupy a common vertical plane. The
rail section that includes the rail pairs is typically provided in
the middle of a fence panel, thereby increasing the strength of the
panel. The rails sections on either side expand away from the
middle section and include identical clamping members, which
include connecting members. The clamping members on either side of
the panels are positioned vertically at different elevations (i.e.,
vertically offset) such that the clamping members mate with one
another when connecting two fence panels.
[0012] More preferably, the fence panel includes end posts that are
expandable in a vertical direction, such that the panels are
expandable and collapsible in vertical and horizontal directions.
More preferably, expanding and collapsing the fence panel is
accomplished structurally by utilizing telescopic segments or
rails.
[0013] Preferably, the fence panels are constructed of polymeric
material, more preferably uv-stabilized polymer material. A variety
of shapes may be utilized for the individual posts or rails of the
fence, such as rectangular, square, cylindrical, polygonal,
etc.
[0014] One advantage of the present invention is that it provides a
lightweight fence that is easy to carry in a single carrying case.
Indeed, in one embodiment, the carrying case with eight (8) panels
therein is about 34 inches wide by about 30 inches tall by about
sixteen (16) inches deep and weighs about 45-55 pounds.
[0015] Another advantage of the present invention is that it
eliminates the unsightly panels mounted to the side of the trailer
as in prior art fences for horses. Furthermore, when prior art
panels are mounted to the side of a trailer, they limit the space
for horses to be tied to the trailer.
[0016] Another advantage of avoiding the trailer mounting system
just noted is that a person owning horses may travel with a friend,
i.e. without his or her trailer and trailer-mounted fence panels.
Instead, an owner of a fence in accordance with the present
invention can simply transport his or her fence in the trunk or
backseat of a car, for example.
[0017] Yet another advantage of the present invention is that it is
made from polypropylene or other suitable plastic material that has
sufficient resilience. Other plastics suitable for the present
invention include, without limitation, polycarbonate, polyethylene,
polypropylene, polyurethane, poly vinyl chloride (PVC), PBS, etc.
The plastic material may be treated or stabilized to resist or
eliminate the effects of ultraviolet radiation. Thus, unlike prior
art metal (aluminum) panels that can be bent when a horse presses
against or bumps into them, the panels of the present invention are
resilient. Further, unlike the prior art metal panels, fence panels
in accordance with the present invention are less likely to
corrode.
[0018] Still another advantage of the present invention is the
versatility it provides. With one set of eight panels, numerous
geometric fence configurations are possible. Numerous applications
are possible, including crowd control, barriers construction sites,
etc. For example, large discount department stores may use such
portable fences as provided by the present invention to create a
barrier for nonpermanent or seasonal areas, such as lawn and garden
centers. Similarly, food vendors at the county fair may also
utilize portable fences in accordance with the present invention.
Numerous other applications are within the scope of the present
invention.
[0019] Yet another advantage of the present invention is that it is
"self standing." In most configurations other than straight line
the fence does not need feet to support itself. In straight line
applications, however, feet members or stakes can be provided to
erect the fence, and such feet may be used when additional vertical
stability is desired.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0020] The above-mentioned and other advantages of the present
invention, and the manner of obtaining them, will become more
apparent and the invention itself will be better understood by
reference to the following description of the embodiments of the
invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings,
wherein:
[0021] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a portable fence in
accordance with the present invention, illustrating the fence being
used in combination with a horse trailer and also illustrating
horses within the fence;
[0022] FIG. 2 is an elevational view of a fence panel of the fence
illustrated in FIG. 1;
[0023] FIG. 2a is a fragmentary view in partial cross-section
illustrating the telescopic engagement of the fence rails of the
panel shown in FIG. 2;
[0024] FIG. 3 is a fragmentary perspective view illustrating the
pivotable attachment mechanism of two panels like that illustrated
in FIG. 2;
[0025] FIG. 4 is a fragmentary elevational view illustrating that
the rail sections are formed from substantially identical halves as
shown in FIGS. 8a and 8b;
[0026] FIGS. 5a-5c are perspective views illustrating the pivotable
capability of fence panels relative to one another in accordance
with the present invention;
[0027] FIGS. 6a-6c are top views of possible geometric
configurations using fence panels in accordance with the present
invention;
[0028] FIG. 7 is a perspective view partially in phantom,
illustrating the expanding and contracting feature of a fence panel
in accordance with the present invention;
[0029] FIGS. 8a and 8b are a fragmentary perspective view and an
end view, respectively, illustrating the attachment of two rail
section halves to form a rail section in accordance with the
present invention;
[0030] FIGS. 9a-9c illustrate a pet carrier which is another
embodiment utilizing the principles of the present invention;
[0031] FIGS. 10a and 10b illustrate another embodiment of a fence
panel in accordance with the present invention;
[0032] FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating a carrying case
for a series of fence panels in accordance with the present
invention;
[0033] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a
fence panel in accordance with the present invention;
[0034] FIG. 13 is a perspective view, partially in phantom, showing
the expandable and contractible ability of the panel shown in FIG.
12;
[0035] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the panel shown in FIG. 12
in the fully contracted position;
[0036] FIG. 15 is an elevational view of the panel shown in FIG.
14;
[0037] FIG. 16 is an elevational view of the embodiment shown in
FIG. 12 in the fully expanded position;
[0038] FIG. 17 is a perspective view one embodiment of a rail
section or end post;
[0039] FIG. 18 is a fragmentary perspective view of a clamping
member;
[0040] FIG. 19 is a fragmentary perspective view of a connecting
member;
[0041] FIG. 20 is an enlarged perspective view of a clamping
member;
[0042] FIG. 21 is a fragmentary perspective view showing how two
panels may be releasably and pivotally connected;
[0043] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a foot;
[0044] FIG. 22a is a perspective view of a base peg; and
[0045] FIG. 23 is a perspective view showing how one panel of the
embodiment shown in FIG. 12 may be releasably and pivotally
connected to a trailer.
[0046] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding
parts throughout the several views.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0047] The embodiments of the present invention described below are
not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the
precise forms disclosed in the following detailed description.
Rather, the embodiments are chosen and described so that others
skilled in the art may appreciate and understand the principles and
practices of the present invention.
[0048] Referring now to FIG. 1, fence 20 includes panels 22 that
are removably and pivotably connected to one another. One side of
fence 20 is formed by trailer 24 so that an enclosed fence is
provided for horses 26. As shown with reference to FIG. 2, each
panel 22 includes three rail sections 28, 30 and 32. Each rail
section includes three spaced and substantially parallel rails 34,
34a and 34b, respectively. The difference it rails 34, 34a and 34b
is that they are sized differently so as to telescopically fit into
one another, rails 34 being larger than rails 34a and rails 34a
being larger than rails 34b. Turning briefly to FIG. 7, it can be
appreciated that the rail sections are expandable and contractible
as a unit in a substantially horizontal direction. Further,
sections 38 are also telescopically expandable as noted. In its
fully collapsed state the fence panel 22 of the illustrated
embodiment is approximately 34 inches wide by 30 inches tall. In
its full expanded configuration fence panel 22 of the illustrated
embodiment is approximately 77 inches wide by 51 inches tall. Thus,
it can be appreciated that the collapsed panel takes up
approximately 26% of the space of the fully expanded panel.
[0049] Continuing in reference to FIG. 2, it can be appreciated
that panel 22 includes left end post 36 and right end post 37 that
are expandable and contractible in a direction substantially
orthogonal to rails 34. This is accomplished by means of end post
telescopic sections 38 that telescope in and out of posts 36 and 37
as shown in FIG. 7. A locking mechanism 40 (FIG. 2) is provided on
each end post 36 and 37 such that post extension 38 can be locked
in place in their outwardly extended position. The locking
mechanism can be any one of a variety of mechanisms known in the
art, and in the (one) illustrated embodiment it comprises a
depressable button that protrudes from post extension 38 and mates
within a complementary sized opening in sections (left end post 36
and right end post 37. Optionally, a foot 39 can be removably
attached to segment (post extension) 38 as shown to provide extra
stability to the assembled fence and allow the fence to be
free-standing without sinking segments 38 into the ground. The foot
39 may be weighted to provide increased stability of the fence and
to allow the panels 22 to be arranged in a straight line. Panel 22
also includes mid-posts 35 which provide structural stability to
the rail sections and in turn to the fence panel.
[0050] As illustrated in FIGS. 4, 8a and 8b, each rail section is
formed from two substantially identical rail section halves. The
half sections can be formed form (from) polypropylene or other
suitable polymer by an injection molding process. A portion of half
42 into which half 44 fits is illustrated in FIG. 4. Returning now
to FIG. 2, it is important that top and bottom connectors or
connecting members 46 on the left post 36 are both spaced the same
distance `d` from the top and bottom of the panel as shown. In this
manner, two identical halves 42 can be formed and connected
together to form rail section 28, whereupon connector halves 43
(FIG. 4) will align and mate with one another. Thus, only one mold
is needed to make both halves 42, which represents substantial
manufacturing savings. For the reasons just noted, it is also
important that top and bottom connectors 48 on right post 37 are
spaced the same distance `D` from the top and bottom of the panel
as shown. In this manner, two identical halves can be formed and
connected together to form rail section 32.
[0051] With further reference to FIG. 2, another important feature
that maintains the rail section halves of rail sections 28 and 32
substantially identical and thus able to be formed from a single
mold is that panels (rail sections) 28 and 32 have substantially
identical fitting, members 50 and 52 that extend in substantially
opposite directions. The top fitting members are adapted for an
accessory such as a cap 54 (FIG. 3) and the bottom fitting members
receive end post telescopic sections 38 (FIG. 2). Rail section 30
has no fitting members, since it is the central rail section of
panel 22. The round opening (locking mechanism) 40 can be molded as
a "pre-punch" such that only the bottom fitting members 52 will be
punched through after the parts are molded. With reference to FIGS.
8a and 8b, the molds that form the halves can be adjusted such that
top half (cap) 54 shown in FIGS. 8a and 8b is formed with pointed
connection member 56 and notch 58. Bottom half 60 is formed with
complementary square hook 62 that is received into notch 58 in a
snap-fit engagement.
[0052] Even though the attachment mechanisms are not identical
(compare FIGS. 8a and 8b), only one mold is needed for both halves
of each rail section. This is because the mold parts that form the
top and bottom connection members can be interchanged on the mold.
Thus, only one mold is required that has interchangeable parts to
form one of the connection mechanisms illustrated in either FIG. 8a
or 8b.
[0053] Once the halves are locked together, they do not come apart.
As illustrated in FIG. 4, halves 44 of section 30 must be snapped
together and installed into one half 42 of section 28 before the
other half 42 of section 28 call be snapped over the first half 42.
This assembly process is similar with regard to all rail sections.
That is, the halves of rail section 32 must be snapped together and
placed into one of the halves 44 (FIG. 4) of section 30 before the
other half 44 can be snapped to the first half 44.
[0054] With reference to FIG. 2a, it can be appreciated that rails
34a telescopically slide into the cylindrical recesses formed by
corresponding rails 34. Importantly, cylindrical recesses 64 are
formed with a smaller bearing surface 66 which holds rails 34a in
place and keeps them from wobbling within cylinders 64. With
further reference to FIG. 2a, a stop member 68 is disposed at the
end of rail 34a and mates with bearing surface 66 to prevent rail
34a from being removed from cylinder 64 of rail 34 once the halves
of section 28 are snapped together.
[0055] Turning now to FIG. 3, the connection mechanism that
pivotably and removably connects fence panels 22 can be
appreciated. Right end post 37 includes connector 48 extending
therefrom that mates with connector 46 of left end post 36. A pin
70 has a handle 72 and a cylindrical body 74 having locking tabs 76
extending outwardly from the bottom thereof. A recess 78 having a
shape that corresponds to the cylinder with locking tabs is formed
in both connectors 46 and 48. As shown in phantom in FIG. 3, once
pin 74 is inserted all of the way through recess 78 in both
connectors 46 and 48, handle 72 is turned and the locking tabs 76
thereby hold the sections together.
[0056] It is to be understood that a connector such as connector 46
or 48 can be mounted to trailer 24 (FIG. 1) so that the panels can
be removably attached thereto in much the same fashion as the
connection depicted in FIG. 3. In such case, one of the connectors
would be mounted to the trailer instead of post 36 or 37. A small
flange member (not shown) would be formed or attached to the
connectors to mount them to the trailer. Of course, such connectors
will occupy a minimum amount of space on the trailer, quite unlike
mounting a multitude of panels to the outside of a trailer as is
taught by the prior art.
[0057] The advantages of the pivotable and removable connection
just described can be appreciated with reference to FIGS. 5a-5c. In
FIG. 5a, panel 80 is pivoted about panel 82 such that there is an
angle of about 55 degrees therebetween, which represents about the
minimum angle of pivot between these two panels. In FIG. 5b, panel
80 has been rotated such that there is an angle of about 180
degrees between it and panel 82. Finally, panel 80 is further
rotated as shown in FIG. 5c such that there is again an angle of
about 75 degrees between it and the other side of panel 82 as
shown. It can be appreciated with reference to FIG. 3 that the 55
degree limit shown in FIGS. 5a occurs as a result of end posts 36
and 37 abutting against one another. Connectors 46 and 48 could be
formed so that they extend further from end posts 36 and 37,
respectively, in order to allow the panels to be pivoted closer to
one another, if so desired.
[0058] With reference to FIGS. 6a-6c, it can be appreciated that
eight panels 86, 88, 90, 92, 94, 96, 98 and 100 can be configured
into an open rectangle (FIG. 6a), a closed octagon (FIG. 6b) and a
closed square (FIG. 6c.) It should be readily recognized that
numerous other configurations (open or closed) are possible
depending upon the number of panels chosen and the geometric shape
desired.
[0059] Turning now to FIGS. 9a-9c, another embodiment of the
present invention is illustrated for use in transporting a pet,
such as a dog or cat. Transportable kennel 102 is expandable and
collapsible as illustrated by contrasting FIGS. 9a and 9b. Kennel
102 includes rail sections 104, 106 and 108 that include
rectangular telescopic rails 110, 112 and 114, respectively, each
being successively smaller so as to telescope. Kennel 102 also
includes a telescopic bottom portion 116 having telescopic
rectangular sections 118, 120 and 122 as shown. Kennel 102 also
includes a front door 124 and carrying handle 126, as are known in
the art.
[0060] With reference to FIGS. 10a and 10b, another fence panel
embodiment is illustrated which includes telescopic rail sections
that span virtually the entire height of panel 136 (22).
[0061] Turning now to FIG. 11 a carrying case 136 is provided to
hold and transport several panels 22 as shown. Carrying case 136
includes handles 138, shoulder strap 140 and an opening 142,
preferably zippered. In the illustrated embodiment, case 136 holds
eight (8) panels 22. Advantageously, the total weight of case 136
having eight panels 2(22) therein is only about 45-55 pounds. Thus,
it can be appreciated that the present invention provides a
convenient, lightweight, easily transportable fence that offers a
significant improvement over the prior art.
[0062] It can now be understood that the present invention provides
a convenient method for assembling a portable corral for horses.
First, panels 22 are removed from carrying case or bag 136. Next,
the panels are vertically and horizontally expanded. A geometric
shape and configuration is selected for the assembled fence. Then,
the panels are connected together and pivoted about one another to
form the desired geometric configuration.
[0063] It is also to be understood that the present invention has
applications beyond containing horses. For example, it is
contemplated that a series of perhaps sixty (60) panels, providing
360 linear feet of fence, can be housed in a container whose
dimensions are approximately 34 inches wide by 30 inches high by 10
feet length. A single container of these dimensions could be
transported on a pick-up truck, whereas several of such containers
could be transported on a conventional trailer.
[0064] Referring to FIG. 12, panel 200 comprises a plurality of
rail sections 201, 201a and 201b. Section 201a serves as the middle
section of panel 200 and is slidably engaged with, at opposite
ends, respectively, sections 201 and 201b. Section 201a comprises a
plurality of paired rails 204 and 204a, each pair having a rail 204
positioned in a common vertical plane with a rail 204a. Rails 204
and 204a do not move relative to one another. Section 201 serves as
one end of panel 200 and comprises a plurality of first rails 202
affixed to first end post 208. A first bottom extension post 212 is
slidably engaged with first end post 208 and extends downward
therefrom in a telescopic arrangement as described above. Section
201b serves as the other end of panel 200 opposite of, and
substantially parallel to section 201. Section 201a slidably
engages section 201, and at its opposite end slidably engages
section 201b. Specifically, rail 204a allows for movement of
section 201b with respect thereto in a substantially horizontal
direction, whereas rail 204 allows for horizontal movement of
section 201 in all opposite direction with respect to section 201a.
Sections 201, 201a and 201b are positioned in substantially the
same vertical plane, thereby forming panel 200. However, rails 202
are vertically offset from rails 206, meaning that rails 202 are
positioned at a different (in this case higher) vertical elevation
relative to rails 206.
[0065] With reference to FIG. 15, end posts 208 and 210 include a
plurality of clamping bodies or clamping members 220, 220' and 222,
which support rails 202 of section 201 and rails 206 of section
201b. Clamping bodies or members 224 support the middle rails 202,
206 of sections 201 and 201b, respectively. Turning now to FIG. 13,
section 201 on the left hand side thereof moves horizontally with
respect to section 201a and section 201b moves horizontally in the
opposite direction with respect to section 201a. In the embodiment
illustrated, it is apparent that the inside diameter of second
rails 204 and 204a is larger than the outside diameter of both the
first rails 202 of section 201 and the third rails 206 of section
201b. Preferably, rails 202 and 206 are identically sized so as to
reduce the number of different parts required for manufacturing
inventive panel 200.
[0066] Rails 202 are moved in a generally horizontal direction so
that they slide into or out of second rails 204, thereby collapsing
or expanding panel 200. Rails 206 move with respect to rails 204a
in substantially the same manner as just described, but in an
opposite direction, thereby collapsing or expanding panel 200.
Furthermore, posts 212 and 214 are also expandable and collapsible
with respect to end posts 208 and 210 respectively, in a vertical
direction, whereby panel 200 is also expandable and collapsible in
a vertical direction.
[0067] The vertical disposition of rails 204 and 204a (i.e.,
aligned in the same vertical plane) reduces the width of panel 200,
thereby allowing compact storage of two panels 200. The vertical
disposition of rails 204 and 204a also provides increased rigidity
and strength to panel 200. For example, middle rail section 201a is
spaced a rail section away from end post 208 and 210 and thus does
not obtain as much structural support from end posts 208 and 210 as
do sections 201 and 201b, respectively. Thus, providing rail pairs
204, 204a (as opposed to single rails) at the center of fence panel
200 compensates for the spacing of section 201a from the end posts
and thus enhances the strength and rigidity of section 201a and the
entire fence panel 200. As noted, sections 201 and 201b slide into
opposite ends of section 201a, thereby collapsing the panel 200 for
storage or transport. A collapsed panel 200 is shown in FIG.
14.
[0068] Returning now to FIG. 15, in one embodiment, the upper and
lower rail pairs 204, 204a are secured together using clamping body
224, whereas the middle rail pair 204, 204a is secured by clamping
bodies 226. Clamping bodies 224 and 226 maintain substantially
vertical disposition of second rails 204 and 204a. Clamping bodies
224 are connected and secured to clamping bodies 226 by vertical
tubular members 230 which have a length chosen to space the
multiple rail pairs 204, 204a a desired distance from one another.
Tubular members or vertical post 230 are provided in separate
sections such that rails 202 can slide within rails 204 and rails
206 can slide within rails 204a because tubular members 230 do not
extend through clamping bodies 226. Furthermore, the tubular bodies
230 prevent sagging of the horizontal rails 202, 204 and 206. In
this connection, the disclosed embodiment illustrates three rail
pairs spaced from one another. However, it should be readily
recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art that the present
invention contemplates different numbers of rail pairs 204, 204a
which can be spaced apart any desired distance from one another. In
some applications, only one rail pail 204, 204a may be required,
whereas in other applications, four or more rail pairs may be
needed. The design is thus versatile and encompasses different
numbers of rail pairs depending on the desired application. For
preferred applications involving rodeo horses, the desired number
of rail pairs 204, 204a is three.
[0069] It is apparent that by arranging the first rail sections 201
and third rail sections 201b as shown in FIG. 12, when two panels
200 are aligned end-to-end, the first connecting member 216 of one
panel 200 becomes aligned along the same vertical axis as
connecting member 218 of the other panel 200, thereby facilitating
releasable and pivotable connection of several panels with pin 264
shown in FIG. 21. Advantageously, connecting members 218 and 216
are identical and indeed are formed as part of identical clamping
members 220 and 220. They align conveniently on top of one another
because of their respective vertical locations where they are
affixed to posts 208 and 210.
[0070] Referring now to FIG. 16, rails 204 and 204a of section 201a
allow insertion to and extension from first rail section 201 and
third rail section 201b. To lock rail sections 201 and 201b in
their extended position with respect to section 201a, a locking
mechanism is provided. For example, rails 202 may be configured
with the depressible protrusions (not shown) which extend into
mating openings 238 in rails 204 and 204a. In other words, the
interior surface of rail 204 holds the protrusion against the
outside surface of rail 202 until the protrusion aligns with
opening 238, whereupon the protrusion expands and pops into opening
238, thereby holding section 201 in its expanded configuration. To
collapse the fence, a thumb or finger pushes against the protrusion
extending from opening 238 while simultaneously pushing the
sections together. This type of locking mechanism is well known in
the art and others readily substitutable would be recognizable by
persons of ordinary skill. In the illustrated embodiment, only two
locking mechanisms are provided for each section 201 and 201b.
Otherwise, the person assembling the fence may have difficulties,
in that he or she only has two hands.
[0071] Referring to FIG. 17, a perspective view of the general
design of either the first rails 202, second rails 204 and 204a,
third rails 206, end posts 208 and 210, and vertical members 230 is
shown. The illustrated embodiment uses material that is formed in a
cylindrical shape. However, it should be recognized that other
shapes, such as squares, triangular or polygonal, will also perform
suitably. In fact, it is anticipated that non-cylindrical shapes
may be preferable in certain applications because they may provide
increased stability to the fence panel, as opposed to cylindrical
telescopic segments which may rotate relative to one another.
[0072] Referring now to FIG. 18, clamping members 224 are
manufactured in halves 229 using the same mold. Clamping members
224 include fasteners, in this case, cylindrical protrusions 246
and 248 which secure rails 204 and 204a thereto. Protrusion 250
secure vertical members 230 to rail sections 204 and 204a of
section 201a. Protrusions 246, 248 and 250 fit into openings 249
formed in the rails and vertical members as illustrated in FIG.
17.
[0073] Turning now to FIG. 19, the assembly of clamping body 220
which forms a top portion of panel 200 can be appreciated. Clamping
body 220 includes identical half sections 221 and 223, as shown.
Each half section includes cylindrical protrusions 253 and 255, as
shown. During assembly, tube or rail 206 is placed against half 221
and protrusion 253 aligned with opening 257 formed in rail 206.
(Two openings 257 are formed in rail 206, only one of which is
shown in FIG. 19.) Similarly, post 210 is placed against half 221
and opening 261 aligned with protrusion 255 such that protrusion
255 mates with opening 261. (Post 210 is configured with two
openings 261 on opposite sides thereof, but only one opening 261 is
shown in FIG. 19.) Next, half section 223 is placed over rails 206
and 210 such that the protrusions align with the openings and fit
therein. Then, halves 221 and 223 are secured together by heat
welding, glue, sonic welding or other suitable bonding mechanism
known in the art. It is also in vision that clamps wore a tapered
sleeves or collars could also be used to secure halves 221 and 223
together. For example the tapered sleeve could be positioned over
the halves and the further the tapered sleeve is slid the tighter
the connection between halves 221 and 223 become. Referring to FIG.
20, a half 225 of clamping body 226 is depicted. Clamping body 226
secures vertical members 230 and the middle pair of rails 204 and
204a. Clamping members 226 are manufactured in identical halves 225
shown in FIG. 20. Protrusions 260a fit into an mate with
complimentary openings in rail sections 204 and 204a, as described
above, whereas protrusions 262a fit into and mate with
complimentary openings in vertical members 230, as also described
above.
[0074] FIG. 21 shows how two panels 200 may be releasably and
pivotably connected using first connecting member 216, second
connecting member 218 and pin 264. First clamping member 220 and
second clamping member 220' are arranged on posts 208 and 210,
respectively, so that the first connecting member 216 and the
second connecting member 218 align end-to-end along the same
vertical axis to form pin receptacle to 270. Advantageously,
connecting members 220 and 220' are identical, differing only in
where they are affixed to end posts 208 and 210. As noted above,
this also means that connecting members 216 and 218 are
identical.
[0075] Pin 264 has a head end 266 having a circumference larger
than the body of the pin. Pin 264 has a bottom end 268 having
flared and outwardly biased members 267 suitable for securing pin
264 in pin receptacle 270. This connection mechanism allows panels
200 to be rotated to change the angle of one panel with respect to
another, as described above. To release the pin, nubs 269 are
pressed together and the head 266 of pin 264 can be pulled
upwardly, releasing it from receptacle 270.
[0076] FIG. 22 shows one embodiment of foot 272 having base 274
which includes support members 278 which circumscribe female
tubular member 276, which in turn is adapted to receive a bottom
post 212 or 214. Feet 272 can advantageously be used when a
plurality of fence panels 200 are aligned end-to-end in a
straight-line relationship, which would not be self-supporting
without feet 272. FIG. 22a shows another embodiment of a foot 280,
in this case formed as a stake. Foot 280 has at its upper end a
tubular receptor 276', again for slidable receipt of bottom posts
212 or 214. The stake member 282 as shown can be inserted into soil
to secure panel 200 to the ground.
[0077] FIG. 23 shows a panel 200 secured to a trailer 24. A trailer
bracket 284 is securely mounted to trailer 24 and includes a
plurality of trailer connecting members 286 similar to connecting
members 216 and 218, described above. Members 286 are arranged to
align with members 216 and 218 such that pins 264 can be inserted
thereinto, thereby securing panel 200 to trailer 24.
[0078] The fence panels 200 of the present invention may be
manufactured by a variety of methods known in the art, including
blow molding, extrusion molding, injection molding or rotational
molding, the preferred method currently being extrusion molding.
The preferred method currently being extrusion molding for the
rails and cylindrical members and injection molding for the
clamping bodies.
[0079] While a preferred embodiment incorporating the principles of
the present invention has been disclosed hereinabove, the present
invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. Instead,
this application is intended to cover any variations, uses, or
adaptations of the invention using its general principles. Further,
this application is intended to cover such departures from the
present disclosure as come within known or customary practice in
the art to which this invention pertains.
* * * * *