U.S. patent application number 10/341709 was filed with the patent office on 2003-08-28 for barrier for the bottom of fences.
Invention is credited to Damon, Gary L., O'Donnell, Jerry L..
Application Number | 20030160224 10/341709 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 27757857 |
Filed Date | 2003-08-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20030160224 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Damon, Gary L. ; et
al. |
August 28, 2003 |
Barrier for the bottom of fences
Abstract
An improved blocking member and vegetation barrier for the
bottom of fences. A ground covering member has first and second
opposite ends and opposite rolled under edges, and it somewhat
rigid but somewhat flexible. The ground covering member can be
placed directly on the ground even if the ground undulates relative
to the fence bottom, and can be kept in that position once the
riser is secured to the fence. The ground covering member can be
resilient and create reactionary force if it is pressed against the
ground. This can further assist in maintaining the blocking member
and vegetation barrier in a fixed position relative the ground and
the fence. The device can be made in lengths that can be
interconnected with one another and/or installed between fence
posts.
Inventors: |
Damon, Gary L.; (Dewar,
IA) ; O'Donnell, Jerry L.; (Waterloo, IA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MCKEE, VOORHEES & SEASE, P.L.C.
801 GRAND AVENUE
SUITE 3200
DES MOINES
IA
50309-2721
US
|
Family ID: |
27757857 |
Appl. No.: |
10/341709 |
Filed: |
January 14, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
10341709 |
Jan 14, 2003 |
|
|
|
09495144 |
Jan 31, 2000 |
|
|
|
6505819 |
|
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
256/19 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E04H 17/063
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
256/19 |
International
Class: |
E04H 017/14 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A barrier apparatus for covering and deterring vegetation growth
at and near fence bottoms, foundations, or other structures
comprising: (a) an elongated member having first and second
opposite ends and opposite sides; (b) each opposite side comprising
a rolled under edge.
2. The barrier of claim 1 wherein the elongated member is made of
plastic.
3. The barrier of claim 1 wherein the elongated member is
approximately ten feet long.
4. The barrier of claim 1 wherein the elongated member includes a
pre-formed opening near said first end.
5. The barrier of claim 5 wherein the second end is devoid of any
preformed openings.
6. The barrier of claim 5 further comprising a preformed slot
between the perimeter of the elongated member and the preformed
opening.
7. The barrier of claim 6 wherein the slot is between the outer
edge of the first end and the preformed opening.
8. The barrier of claim 1 wherein the rolled under edge is
radiused.
9. The barrier of claim 8 wherein the radius is on the order of 14"
to 15".
10. A method of covering ground or vegetation under a fence that is
mounted on a plurality of fence posts comprising: (a) manufacturing
a plurality of elongated members each having first and second
opposite ends and opposite sides, with each opposite side
comprising a rolled under edge; (b) placing an elongated member
under the fence; (c) placing a succeeding elongated member under
the fence; (d) overlapping a first end of a succeeding elongated
member next to the second end of the elongated member; (e)
continuing with still further elongated members if needed.
11. The method of claim 10 further comprising preforming an opening
in the first end of the elongated members and forming a slot from
the perimeter of the elongated member to the opening, then
manipulating the elongated member to position the opening around a
first fence post, placing the remainder of the elongated member
under the fence.
12. The method of claim 11 further comprising, measuring the
distance between first and second fence posts and cutting the
second end of the elongated member so that it approximately abuts
the second fence post when the opening of the first end of the
elongated member is installed around the first fence post.
13. The method of claim 12 further comprising, placing the opening
of another elongated member around the second fence post, measuring
the distance to a third fence post and cutting, if needed, the
another elongated member to fit between the second and third fence
posts.
14. The method of claim 13 further comprising manipulating the
first end of the another elongated member to cause its rolled under
edges to snap over the opposite edges of the second end of the
elongated member.
15. The method of claim 13 further comprising overlapping adjacent
ends of elongated members.
16. The method of claim 10 further comprising placing an arching
member between opposite sides of an elongated member to raise the
vertical height of the middle of the elongated member at and around
the position of the arch.
17. The method of claim 16 wherein the arching member comprises a
piece placed underneath the elongated member and held in place
between said rolled under edges.
18. The method of claim 16 wherein the arching member is fabricated
from trimmings of an elongated member.
19. A kit for covering the ground under or near a fence or
structure on or in the ground comprising: (a) a plurality of
elongated ground cover members, each having a uniform size and
shape, namely an elongated member having first and second opposite
ends and opposite sides; (b) each opposite side comprising a rolled
under edge; (c) a preformed opening in the first end of at least
one of the plurality of elongated members.
20. The kit of claim 19 further comprising each elongated member
includes a preformed opening in its first end.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates to fences, particularly those
used for residential purposes, and in particular, to devices and
methods to deter vegetation growth under the fences.
[0003] 2. Problems in the Art
[0004] Property owners many times erect fences to delineate
property boundaries, to obtain privacy, or to restrict either
access to or egress out of the property at that location. The most
popular types of fences, particular for residential properties, are
chain link fences and wooden board fences.
[0005] Both types generally include fence posts secured in the
ground at regularly spaced intervals. The fence itself is usually
built between posts and above the ground. It is usually intended
and desired that the bottom of the fence extend to the ground or as
close to the ground as possible to provide a barrier to entry or
exit of even smaller animals or pets.
[0006] Several problems face the fence owner. First, when
installing the fence there are limitations as to how close to the
ground the fence can be placed, especially if there are changes in
the contour of the ground along the fence. Chain length fencing has
some ability to follow such contours, but if the fence is to be
held tight between posts, such flexibility is limited. Wooden
fences can be customized as to each board's length, and thus
theoretically could adapt to any contour. However, realistically,
most fences come pre-manufactured with boards of the same length.
It is usually desired to have the top of the fence relatively
uniform, and therefore, varying the height of several boards to
meet a depression or raised portion of the ground is not
desirable.
[0007] Secondly, trimming grass and weeds and other vegetation
around the fence bottom can be difficult and time consuming. While
labor-reducing devices such as string trimmers are in wide use, it
is still time consuming to trim along fences, and most fences tend
to wear away the string of such trimmers at a substantial rate.
[0008] Thus there is a need for a solution to the problems of
building a fence only to have gaps between portions of the fence
bottom and the ground, especially where there are undulations or
changes in the contour of the ground along the fence, especially
between fence posts, and of building a fence and facing the task of
keeping it free from vegetation or having an unsightly fence
row.
[0009] Somewhat surprisingly, there are a significant number of
issued patents that address the issue of providing a barrier to
vegetation along a fence bottom. Examples can be found at:
1 PATENT NUMBER ISSUE DATE PATENTEE 2,826,393 Mar. 11, 1958 MILLER
3,515,373 Jun. 2, 1970 ABBE 3,713,624 Jan. 30, 1973 NIEMANN
3,806,096 Apr. 23, 1974 ECCLESTON ET AL. 4,349,989 Sep. 21, 1982
SNIDER, JR. 4,497,472 Feb. 5, 1985 JOHNSON 5,178,369 Jan. 12, 1993
SYX 4,907,783 Mar. 13, 1990 FISK ET AL 4,964,619 Oct. 23, 1990
GLIDDEN, JR. 5,285,594 Feb. 15, 1994 PENNY 5,328,156 Jul. 12, 1994
HOKE
[0010] However, none of these patents address satisfactorily the
first problem discussed above; namely, how to block gaps that exist
or form between the bottom of a fence and the ground. Patents such
as Abbe are buried in the ground, and therefore follow the ground
contour, but have no upwardly extending portion. Therefore, big
gaps would remain. Others are too structurally rigid to bend, once
installed, or do not have anyway to bend to follow a ground
contour.
[0011] Moreover, many of the patents are complex, expensive to make
or install, or otherwise have deficiencies that could allow
improvement. A subtle deficiency in some prior art attempts is that
part of the installation would have to occur on the adjoining
property owner's land, which sometimes is not possible or will not
be permitted.
[0012] Therefore, despite a seemingly substantial number of
attempts at solving the problems with the bottoms of fences, a real
need in the art has been identified. It is therefore a principle
object of the present invention to overcome the problems and
deficiencies in the art.
[0013] Still further objects of the present invention are to
provide an improved gap blocker and vegetation barrier for fence
bottoms which:
[0014] 1.can be conformed to a wide variety of ground contours and
fence bottoms while maintaining both functions of blocking any gaps
and deterring vegetation growth.
[0015] 2. is strong and durable, even when stepped by persons or
animals and run over by mowers.
[0016] 3. is easy to install.
[0017] 4. is economical.
[0018] 5. is flexibly adaptable regarding type of fence, type of
barrier desired, coverage of barrier desired, size and length of
fencing, number of corners of fencing, and other characteristics of
fences, ground and environment.
[0019] 6.can be retrofitted to existing fences of many different
types or installed with the installation of a new fence.
[0020] 7.is effective to block gaps and deter vegetation growth at
the bottom of fences.
[0021] 8. is aesthetically pleasing.
[0022] These and other objects, features, and advantages of the
present invention will become more apparent with reference to the
accompanying specification and claims.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0023] The present invention is a gap blocker and vegetation
barrier for the space between a fence bottom and the ground.
[0024] It comprises an elongated member having opposite ends and a
width terminating in opposite edges. The opposite edges comprise
rolled under portions. The elongated member is made of a somewhat
rigid but somewhat flexible material. One placed on the ground, the
rolled under edges tend to seal against the ground and assist in
pushing back up against any force on top of the elongated
member.
[0025] The flexibility and shape of the elongated member allows a
plurality of elongated members to be interfit longitudinally. In
one embodiment of the invention, a pre-formed fence post hole
exists near one end of the elongated member and the opposite end of
the elongated member is squared off. The opposite end can be cut
off to adjust the longitudinal length of the elongated member so
that it can be fit snuggly between fence posts.
[0026] Another optional aspect of the invention is utilization of
an insert can be placed either underneath the elongated member or
above the elongated member to arch the elongated member at a
location along its length to fill up gaps of space that might occur
between the bottom of a fence and the elongated member when placed
on the ground.
[0027] A still further optional aspect or embodiment of the
invention is a vertical riser secured along all or part of the
longitudinal length of the elongated member. The vertical riser can
be used to secure the elongated member to a solid fence or a chain
link fence. A still further embodiment, the vertical member can be
scored along its intersection with the elongated member to allow it
to fold down for storage or shipping and yet be folded up for use.
The scoring could also be used to assist in cutting the vertical
riser off if needed or desired.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0028] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a multi-section apparatus
according to the present invention installed with respect to a
chain link fence.
[0029] FIG. 2 is an enlarged perspective view of a single section
of the apparatus of FIG. 1 relative to a chain link fence.
[0030] FIG. 3 is an enlarged perspective view of a section of the
apparatus according to an alternative embodiment of the present
invention installed to a wood fence.
[0031] FIG. 4 is an enlarged end elevation view of FIG. 3.
[0032] FIG. 4A is similar to FIG. 4 but shows the apparatus
according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention
blocking a gap between the fence bottom and the ground.
[0033] FIG. 5 is a still further enlarged, isolated end elevation
view of a removable ground cover section of the apparatus of FIG.
1.
[0034] FIG. 6 is a partial sectional, front elevation view
illustrating how the apparatus according to the present invention
can be installed relative to a fence to follow contours of the
ground.
[0035] FIG. 7 is a top plan view of an interconnecting member to
interconnect sections of the apparatus of FIG. 1 and to
interconnect said sections and cover the ground around fence
posts.
[0036] FIG. 8 is a top plan view of the interconnecting member of
FIG. 7 installed relative to fence posts and corners in the fence
of FIG. 1.
[0037] FIGS. 9 and 10 are top plan views of optional
interconnecting members to that of FIG. 7.
[0038] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of another embodiment
according to the invention, having a portion of the vertical riser
extending below the plane of the ground cover member.
[0039] FIG. 12 is an enlarged cross sectional and elevational view
of the embodiment of FIG. 11 when installed relative to the ground
and a concrete foundation or wall.
[0040] FIG. 13 shows another embodiment of the invention with a
downwardly extending vertical section, and also depicting ghost
lines and upwardly extending vertical section and opposite side of
the ground cover member.
[0041] FIG. 14 is similar to FIG. 1 but illustrates another
embodiment of a ground cover member according to the invention as
installed relative to a fence.
[0042] FIG. 15 is an enlarged perspective view of a single section
of embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 14.
[0043] FIG. 16 is a still further enlarged top view of the
embodiment of FIG. 15.
[0044] FIG. 17 is a reduced in size top view of the embodiment of
FIG. 15 showing it installed relative two fence posts.
[0045] FIG. 18 is similar to FIG. 15 which shows an optional
vertical riser on the embodiment.
[0046] FIG. 19 is an enlarged end view of the embodiment of FIG.
15.
[0047] FIG. 20 is an enlarged perspective of the embodiment of FIG.
15 relative to the bottom of a chain link fence.
[0048] FIG. 21 is a side elevational view of the embodiment of FIG.
15 relative to a bottom of a chain link fence illustrating how the
embodiment can block gaps between the bottom of a chain link fence
and undulating ground.
[0049] FIG. 22 is an enlarged sectional view taken along line 22-22
of FIG. 21.
[0050] FIG. 23 is an enlarged sectional view taken along line 23-23
of FIG. 21.
[0051] FIG. 24 is an enlarged sectional view taken along line 24-24
of FIG. 21.
[0052] FIG. 25 is an enlarged sectional view taken along line 25-25
of FIG. 21.
[0053] FIG. 26 is a top view showing in more detail the
interconnection of multi devices according to FIG. 15 installed
relative to fence posts.
[0054] FIG. 27 is an enlarged view of the overlap of devices
according to FIG. 15 at a fence post when the connection is
perpendicular.
[0055] FIG. 28 is an alternative overlap similar to FIG. 27.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0056] To assist in a better understanding of the invention, one
embodiment the invention can take will now be described in detail.
Frequent reference will be taken to the drawings. Reference numbers
will be used to indicate certain parts or locations in the
drawings. The same reference numerals will be used to indicate the
same parts and locations throughout all the drawings unless
otherwise stated.
[0057] FIG. 1 shows an apparatus according to the present invention
which will hereafter be referred to generally as barrier 10
installed in position relative to a chain link fence 12. Fence 12
includes fence posts 14 secured into the ground at spaced apart
positions, top rails 16 secured between posts 14, and the chain
link fabric or web 18 strung between poles 14. Barrier 10 is
positioned under the bottom of web 18 of fence 12 along its entire
length. It is to be understood that barrier 10 will be discussed
mainly in the context of use with a chain link fences, such as are
well known well, but it can be used with other types of fences.
Some examples will be discussed later.
[0058] Barrier 10 is produced in elongated sections 11, ideally of
lengths that span just about the distance between posts 14. For
example, if the standard distance between posts 14 was ten feet,
each barrier section 11 would be made slightly under ten feet long
so that it could be inserted between the posts 14 with a little
space left. However, obviously, sections 11 could be made to any
length and could have variable length.
[0059] Each section 11 of barrier 10 has a riser 20 and ground
cover portion 22. As seen in FIG. 1, when installed risers 20
extend generally vertically along one side of web 8 and cover
portions 22 extend generally horizontally over the ground below or
near the bottom of web 18. Spacers 24 are insertable between
sections 11 of barrier 10 to cover the ground between those
sections, particularly around fence posts 14.
[0060] As can be seen in FIG. 1, barrier 10 not only covers and
deters vegetation growth under fence 12 and for a distance to the
side of fence 12, but also blocks any gaps between the bottom of
web 18 and the ground. It also gives the appearance of a foundation
or base which is aesthetically appeasing. It is to be understood
that barrier 10 could be made of different colors, including to
match the color of the fence or to match the color of vegetation,
such a green for grass, to assist in the aesthetic appearance.
[0061] More detail of the structure and installment of barrier 10
can be seen in FIG. 2. Each riser 20 has a number of apertures 23
along its length, preferably near its top edge (e.g. elongated
holes through riser 20 approximately {fraction (3/16)}" to 1/4" in
dimensions and spaced apart approximately 4" on center). Securing
loops 25 are placed through apertures 23 and then around at least
one strand of web 18 of fence 12. Generally, not every aperture 23
would have a securing loop 25. For example, perhaps one securing
lop would be used every sixth aperture 23 (if apertures 23 were 4"
apart), unless securement at other locations was needed or desired.
In this embodiment, ground cover portion 22 consists of panels 26
and 28, forming a T-shape cross section for barrier 10. Panel 26
extends under web 18 to the opposite side of fence 12 from the side
of riser 20, whereas panel 28 extends away from riser 20 on the
same side of the fence as riser 20.
[0062] Riser 20 and panels 26 and 28 are made from {fraction
(1/16)}" thick plastic, preferably PVC or polyethylene with UV
resistance. Such materials can be made to have substantial strength
but yet have some flexibility. Note that the top of riser 20 has a
bead 32 for strength. The bottom of riser 20 has a thickened
portion 34 for strength without unduly limiting the flexibility.
Panel 28 is integral with portion 34, whereas in this embodiment,
panel 26 is a separate piece that can be mounted to portion 34 by
sliding bead 36 of panel 28 longitudinally into and along a channel
42 along the length of riser 20.
[0063] Note too that panels 26 and 28 are concave with respect to
the ground and have turned under edges 38. This combination allows
some resilient springing action of the ground cover portion of
barrier 10 relative to riser 20 when barrier is either pressed down
(e.g. by persons or animals stepping on or mowers moving over a
panel 26 or 28) or when the barrier is intentionally pressed down
and secured into place relative to fence 12. This therefore assists
in blocking any gaps between the fence bottom and the ground and
deterring vegetation growth by securely covering the ground without
sunlight.
[0064] Securing loops 25 are conventional plastic tie downs
available from a wide variety of sources. They have a toothed
surface along at least a portion of their length (e.g. 4" long)
that is pulled through a piece, and like a ratchet, the loop that
is formed can be cinched down (reduced in size) and maintained in
place, and can not move back to a larger size without destroying
the tie down. These are well known. They are inexpensive, easy to
install, flexible in characteristic and in the length which they
can be, and are durable. Other securing loops are possible. One
example would be bungy cords (FIG. 2 at 27) or other elastic
devices with hooks or other end point securement means. Other types
of securing members are also possible.
[0065] FIG. 3 illustrates how barrier 10 could be used with a wood
fence 12A. It is more likely that a wood fence 12A would extend all
the way to the ground or that it would not be easy to slide a panel
26 under the fence. Because the opposite side of the fence can not
be seen, it may not be desired to utilize panel 26. Therefore,
panel 26 can be removed (or never be installed) and, as shown in
FIG. 4, riser 20 could be brought up against the wood fence 12A,
and wood screws, nails, or other fasteners 30 placed through
apertures 23 and into the wood. Barrier 10 would be held securely
in position, including against any vertical movement. Thus, even
though the fence bottom or top or both are level, for example,
barrier 10 could be pushed down or pulled up along its length at
various points, and secured in place on the fence. As with the
prior example, the flexibility of barrier 10, along with the
ability to secure riser 20, would allow barriers 10 to be flexed to
follow the contour of the ground, even if the fence did not follow
it. Therefore, any gaps could be taken care of by barrier 10.
Compare FIGS. 4 and 4A.
[0066] Barrier sections 11 can have the following general
approximate dimensions--overall length of ten feet (but trimmable
to different lengths); two to three inches tall (the height of
riser 20); and six to eight inches wide (the width of both panels
26 and 28). FIG. 5 illustrates removable panel 26 in more detail.
The dimensions of panel 26 are: A=0.50",; B=3.38"; C=0.64". Radius
R1 is based upon a 14.4" radius; radius R2=0.120"; and radius
R3=0.20". Bead 36 of panel 26 fits within a 0.125" diameter round
channel 42 along portion 34 of riser 20. Slot 44 extends out form
channel 42 to allow passage of panel 26 out of portion 34 and to
prevent it from tilting up or down. Similar dimensional
relationships exist for panel 28. Bead 32 on riser 20 is
approximately 1/4" in diameter and extends on one side of riser
20.
[0067] FIG. 6 illustrates how barrier 10 can follow bends in the
bottom of fence 10 or changes on contour of the ground. Securing
loops 25 can be used to tie riser 20 to varying positions along
fence web 18. Therefore, if barrier 10 needs to be drawn down
somewhat to follow a depression in the ground or the bottom of
fence 10, riser 10 is simply drawn down and tied to web 18 at a
lower point than other parts of barrier 10. Plastic ties as
securing loops 25 allow the installer some leeway because it may
require that the plastic tie reach quite a ways up or down on web
18 to draw barrier 10 to the required position (see reference
numbers 60 and 62 and compare how they and where they are tied to
fence web 18. The flexibility to flex riser 20 along its length is
such that it can bend several inches per linear foot of length.
[0068] FIGS. 7 and 8 illustrate the spacers 24 that can cover the
area around fence posts 14 or simply be used to bridge between two
sections 11 of barriers 10. In one form, spacer 24 is a flat square
piece of plastic having a cut out 52 sized for insertion around a
round fence pole 14. Dashed line 52A indicates that a punch out or
cut out line could be manufactured into the spacer to allow easy
modification of spacer 24, if needed, for bigger poles.
[0069] FIG. 8 shows that spacer 24 would be inserted around pole 14
and then slid into the turned under edges 38 of panels 26 and 28 on
one side of post 4. The other barrier section 11 would simply be
brought near or into abutment with spacer 24 and secured into
position. All areas under fence web 18 would then be at least
substantially covered. Spacer 24 is sized so that its width slides
into and is captured in turned down edges 38 of panels 26 and 28 of
ground cover portion 22. It can be approximately 6" to 8" width and
can be approximately 10" long and {fraction (1/16)}" thick.
[0070] FIG. 9 illustrates that alternatively, cut out 52C could be
square to accommodate square fence posts, such as some wood posts.
FIG. 10 shows another embodiment of spacer 24. A square or
rectangular piece could have merely a slit 54 that leads to one or
more cutouts. The dashed lines indicate knock out or punch out cuts
56A, 56B, 56C, and 56D on the piece. The installer would knock out
the center to the diameter needed (e.g. 1 5/8", 2", 2 1/2", 3").
Spacer 24 could be pulled around the post via the slit 54 and then
installed as discussed with regard to FIG. 8.
[0071] The included preferred embodiment is given by way of example
only, and not by way of limitation to the invention, which is
solely described by the claims herein. Variations obvious to one
skilled in the art will be included within the invention defined by
the claims.
[0072] For example, barrier 10 can be made out of a number of
materials. Plastics are generally preferred. Examples are PVC,
polypropylene and polyethylene. The characteristics needed are set
forth above including being able to flex, being able to survive all
types of environmental conditions out of doors, and being able to
take mowers and people and animals stepping on it. Plastic could be
molded to the shape indicated herein.
[0073] As previously mentioned, the size and shape can vary. It can
be manufactured by a number of methods widely known in the art. An
example is injection molding.
[0074] The Figures show each section 11 to be two-piece; one piece
comprising riser 20 and panel 28 integral with one another; the
other piece comprising removable panel 26. Section 11 could be all
one piece (riser 20 and panels 26 and 28) or riser 20 could be
separate with each panel 26 and 28 removable.
[0075] FIG. 11 shows an alternative embodiment. Riser 20 and panel
28 are the same as previously described. An downward extension of
riser 20 (shown at reference numeral 20A in FIG. 11) is added. As
shown in FIG. 12, portion 20A can be pushed into ground 8 between
vertical wall such as cement wall or foundation 6 and thus used to
secure the device in place against the wall, even without nails,
bolts or other attaching hardware (which could also be used). As
shown in FIG. 12, the rolled under edge 38 of panel 28 provides a
seal against ground 8 and also upperward pressure on panel 28 to
urge maintenance of contact with ground 8.
[0076] FIG. 13 illustrates that portion 20A could just alone be
utilized with panel 28 to be placed up against a wall or fence.
FIG. 13 shows in ghost lines that vertical riser 20 and panel 26,
extending oppositely from panel 28, could also be utilized. It is
to be understood that any of the parts illustrated could be easily
removed using conventional tools such as scissors, tin snips,
utility knives, etc.
[0077] FIGS. 14-28 illustrate a still further embodiment according
to the invention. FIG. 14, similar to FIG. 1, shows a plurality of
barriers 100 installed relative to a fence. Each member 100 is
similar to barriers 10 previously described except as follows.
[0078] Each barrier 100 has a first end 102 and a second 104.
Opposite side edges 106 and 108 include rolled under edges like
edges 38 regarding barrier 10 previously described.
[0079] Each barrier 100 includes a pre-cut opening 110 and a slot
111 (e.g. approx. 2 1/2" long) between the very outer edge of end
102 and opening 110. End 104 is solid and is simply squared
off.
[0080] As can be seen in FIG. 14, barriers 100 are installed by
bending one side or the other of an end 102 and inserting end 102
relative to a fence post 14 so that fence post 14 is within opening
110. End 104 of barrier 100 is preferably in abutment with the
relevant post 14. Because end 104 is squared off, and because of
the structure and material of barrier 100, with simple conventional
tools, end 104 can be measured and cut to have that relationship
between posts 14.
[0081] As seen in FIG. 14, succeeding barriers 100 are sequentially
installed in that manner along fence line relative to posts 14.
Overlapping ends 102 and 104 of succeeding barriers 100 cooperate
to hold barriers 100 in alignment with the fence.
[0082] FIGS. 15 and 16 illustrate barrier 100 in more detail.
Rolled under edges 38 in cooperation with the rest of barrier 100
define an open area underneath barrier 100. In the preferred
embodiment, barriers 100 are made to uniform lengths. One style is
125" long. This length is picked because it represents usually the
maximum distance between chain link fence posts. It is to be
understood that many times fence posts 14 are not precisely spaced
apart in ten foot intervals. Therefore, as indicated in FIG. 15,
squared off end 104 can simply be cut to length on the spot for
conventional tools such as scissors 116 so that barrier 100 can be
essentially wedged in between a fence post 14 secured in opening
110 at end 102 of barrier 100, and end 104 abutting directly
against the succeeding fence post 104.
[0083] Alternatively, for ease of handling, packaging, and
transport, barrier 100 could be made of two pieces, each 67" long,
for example, with one piece having the opening 110 at end 102. The
other piece would have no openings and would simply have its end
102 snapped over end 104 of the first piece. This is possible
because of the rolled under edges. Pieces 67" long would be easier
for individuals to carry and transport in automobiles.
[0084] Opening 110 can be on the order of two inches in diameter.
Slot 112 can be 0.25 inches in width. The distance between the very
edge of end 102 and center of opening 110 can be four inches.
[0085] Similar to what is discussed relative to FIG. 10 previously,
opening 110 can be pre-formed. Scoring or other methodology can be
used to create break lines at 110b, 110c, 110d, for example, to
provide the ability to easily expand opening 110 to fit different
sized fence posts as needed.
[0086] FIG. 17 illustrates how barrier 100 can be wedged or placed
between succeeding fence posts 14a and 14b. As indicated at arrow
118, end 102 of barrier 100 secured around post 14a, lateral
movement of barrier 100 is prevented. Once end 104 of barrier 100
is appropriately trimmed to size, if needed, and wedged against
post 14b, longitudinal movement of barrier 100 is prevented (see
arrow 120). The wedging action also deters lateral movement of end
104 of barrier 100a (see arrow 122). This relationship, in
combination with barrier 100 being forced under the chain link
fence between posts 14a and 14b, which would prevent raising of
barrier 100, generally serves to hold it in position. Rolled under
edges 38, at opposite edges of barrier 100, push upwardly against
any force down in the middle of barrier 100 by the chain link
fence, also helping to keep barrier 100 in place.
[0087] Still further, the succeeding barrier 100b in FIG. 17, would
overlap over and clamp around end 104 of barrier 100a. Because end
102 of barrier 100b is also secured around posts 14b, this serves
to further prevent end 104 of barrier 100a from moving
laterally.
[0088] FIG. 18 depicts an optional feature of barrier 100. A
vertical riser 130, similar to vertical riser 20 described
previously, could be molded into barrier 100 along at least
substantial portion of its length. Riser 130 could be scored on the
far side of FIG. 18 at its intersection with riser 100, and as
indicated by arrow 132, fold down against the top of barrier 100.
This can be advantageous regarding storage or shipping, to reduce
the volume of space taken up by advice.
[0089] As previously described, vertical riser 130 can sometimes be
useful in securing the barrier to fences or structures. As has also
been discussed, plastic material can easily be cut away. Portions
of vertical riser 130 could be cut away and portions left. One side
or the other of barrier 100 could be cut away leaving riser 130 and
the remaining side of barrier 100. This can be quickly accomplished
with a utility knife or scissors or the like. A simple straight
edge could be used also.
[0090] In any event, the cooperation of rolled under edges or edge
38, with the barrier 100 or the portion of which remains, and/or
vertical riser 130, allow for installation to the fence and
coverage of the ground thereby.
[0091] FIG. 19 gives additional dimensions regarding barrier 100.
Particularly note that during molding, a radius of 14.643 inches
for most of the width of barrier 100 is designed into barrier
100.
[0092] FIG. 20 illustrates how barrier 100 can function together
with chain link fence 18. Barrier 100 is made up of somewhat rigid
yet somewhat flexible plastic.
[0093] As previously discussed and as illustrated in the drawings,
barrier 100 is molded (for example, through a die) with a
pre-formed radius of curvature for the general barrier 100 and
specific radius of curvature for the rolled under edges. Barrier
100 can be made of recycled plastics. The shape essentially has
somewhat of a memory. It fights to go back to its original shape if
forces push down on that radius. The material to barrier 100 is
HDPE plastic. In one embodiment, its weight per foot is 0.172.
Further description of material that can be used with barrier 100
is set forth below.
[0094] The following are the specifications of the Exxon Wide-Spec.
HDPE:
2 Melt Flow; .25 g/10 min. (Average) Density: .951 (Average)
[0095] The following are the properties of the Exxon HDPE AA55-003
when prime:
3 Flexural Modulus: 151,000 psi Tensile @ Yield: 4030 psi
Elongation @ Break: 602.0 % Durometer 69 Shore D Vicat Softening:
258 Fahrenheit
[0096] FIG. 20 illustrates that the flexibility of member 100
combined with rolled under edges 38 allows barrier 100 to be
pressed down and slid fence 18 in position between posts 14 in the
manner previously described. Because rolled under edges 38 urge the
middle part of barrier 100 normally upward, and there is an open
unobstructed space underneath barrier 100 between rolled under
edges 38, fence 18 would push down on the center of barrier 100 and
thus force would be placed downward relative to rolled under edges
38. Barrier 100 would assume the shape indicated in FIG. 20, with
the portion directly under fence 18 being pushed downwardly and
innerwardly. Rolled under edges 38 and the rest of barrier 100
would resist and react against any further forces downward and thus
help keep barrier 100 in position between posts 14, and help to
keep rolled under edges 38 in contact with the ground to provide a
good barrier and resist wind or debris from getting under the
edges.
[0097] FIG. 21 is similar to FIG. 6 except for the following. It
illustrates a barrier 100 between two posts 14 (installed as
previously described). It is also intended to illustrate that the
surface of the ground between posts 14 is not flat. In this example
the ground not only lowers between right fence post 14 and left
fence post 14, but undulates downwardly.
[0098] Normally, relative to essentially flat ground, side
elevational view of barrier 100 would appear similar to that shown
on the right side of FIG. 21. Fence 18 would push down on the
middle of barrier 100 and opposite side edges 38 would sit on the
ground. FIG. 23 shows this in cross section.
[0099] In the situation of FIG. 21, however, it can occur that
fence 18, when installed, would leave a gap between ground surface
and the bottom of fence 18, as shown going to the left in FIG. 21.
If the gap between barrier 100 and the bottom of fence 18 is
desired to be closed, one possible way of doing so is as
follows.
[0100] An insert piece 150, could be placed inside barrier 100 and
locked in between rolled under edges 38. Piece 150 could be shaped
in a manner to urge the top of barrier 100 upwardly. As shown in
FIG. 24, such a piece 150 appropriately shaped and appropriately
inserted to exert the proper force, could owe barrier 100 upwardly
at that position so that its center raises up to the bottom of
fence 18.
[0101] FIG. 25 shows that if further raising of barrier 100 at that
point is needed to fill in any such gap, a different piece 152,
shaped differently or can figure differently, so that it pushes the
center of barrier 100 even further up, could be used to fill in the
gap.
[0102] Pieces such as 150 and 152 could be of a wide variety of
materials and configurations. Preferably they could be made from
the trimmings or un-used material from barriers 100 themselves. A
worker could cut out a piece 150 and simply a rectangular shape
such that it creates an arch of the height needed to raise the
center of barrier 100 sufficiently to fill in a gap.
[0103] FIG. 22 shows in cross section the overlap of adjacent edges
of barriers 100. The flexibility of barrier 100 allows one to be
placed over the next. There identical cross sectional shapes allows
them to essentially be snapped over one another and locked in
position.
[0104] FIG. 26 illustrates one method of overlapping adjacent edges
of barrier 100. Barrier 100a has an end 102a with an opening 110a
that can surround a post 14. The next barrier, 100b, would be
installed by surrounding opening 110b at end 112b around succeeding
post 14 and then end 104b of barrier 100b would then be fit so that
either by its original length abuts against post 14a, or is trimmed
or cut to that length. End 104b would be slid underneath end 102a
of barrier 100a, as shown in FIG. 26. Similarly, end 102c of
barrier 100c would be placed so that opening 110c would surround
post 14c. Opposite end 104c would be appropriate size so that when
laid flat against the ground, end 104c would abut against and wedge
against post 14b but would be placed underneath end 102b of barrier
100b.
[0105] FIG. 27 illustrates how such an installation process such as
shown in FIG. 26 allows one end 102 of a barrier 100a to at least
partially overlap and lay on top of end 104b of barrier 100b to
insist in keeping it positioned. An alternative is shown at FIG. 28
where two ends 102 for different barriers 100a and 100b overlap
over the same posts 14. In that case, rolled under edge 38 of one
end 102 could actually snap over the end 102 of the other barrier
100.
[0106] As can been seen from the drawings and as described, the
pre-formed hole 110 in barriers 110 can be punched after barrier
110 is produced. Slot 112 can also be punched. This arrangement
allows barrier 100 to be manipulated by raising one side of end 102
of barrier 100 to allow passage of fence post through the location
of slot 112 into opening 110. The flap would be released and
returned to the shape shown in FIG. 15.
[0107] To further secure end 102 of barriers 100, a short section
(e.g. 2 1/2") of barrier 100 could be cut off of end 104 or from
another piece and quickly snapped over end 102 of barrier 100 to
cover slot 112. This would prevent flaps on either side of 112 from
lifting up for any reason.
[0108] It can therefore be seen that the embodiment shown in FIGS.
14-28 provide a convenient and easy way of installing a barrier
underneath fences. Essentially uniform pieces (barriers 100) could
be produced economically by conventional plastic production. The
profile serves to provide resilience to assist in holding barrier
100 in place and sealing against the ground. Pre-punched openings
110 coordinate with slots 112 allow positioning of the barrier 100
around fence posts to assist in keeping them in place. This
essentially one-piece system is user friendly, does not involve the
use of specialized or numerous tools, does not require additional
and hard to handle equipment or components such as tie wraps, does
not require nailing or gluing or caulking, and does not require use
of specialized templates or customization procedures.
[0109] As described previously, a purchaser can purchase the
correct number barriers 100 and the inherent nature of barriers 100
allows them to be easily cut to size using simple tools and
procedures and with minor customization fit various size post holes
and distances between posts. Scrap pieces from barrier 100 itself
can be used to cover the flaps of ends 102 if desired or to create
bridges or inserts to raise the cross-sectional profile of barrier
100 as described elsewhere.
* * * * *