U.S. patent application number 10/818924 was filed with the patent office on 2004-09-30 for portable collapsible corral fence.
This patent application is currently assigned to Spur Innovation, Inc.. Invention is credited to Anderson, John D., Peach, Walter J., Ray, Susan R..
Application Number | 20040188667 10/818924 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46301153 |
Filed Date | 2004-09-30 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040188667 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Ray, Susan R. ; et
al. |
September 30, 2004 |
Portable collapsible corral fence
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 one-piece
double tubes. The use of the double tubes 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: |
Alexander D. Forman
ICE MILLER
One American Square
Box 82001
Indianapolis
IN
46282-0002
US
|
Assignee: |
Spur Innovation, Inc.
Gosport
IN
|
Family ID: |
46301153 |
Appl. No.: |
10/818924 |
Filed: |
April 6, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
10818924 |
Apr 6, 2004 |
|
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|
10342170 |
Jan 13, 2003 |
|
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60347956 |
Jan 12, 2002 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
256/67 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E04H 17/18 20130101;
E01F 13/02 20130101; A01K 3/00 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
256/067 |
International
Class: |
E04H 017/14 |
Claims
We claim:
1. A portable and collapsible fence panel, comprising: (a) a first
rail section having at least one unitary double tube, said double
tube comprising a first tube and a second tube, each having a
hollow interior extending through said first and said second tubes;
(b) a second rail section having at least one first moveable rail
positioned within the hollow interior of said double tube, so that
the at least one first rail can slide into and out of the first
tube; (c) at least one end post; and (d) at least one connector
having an insert located inside a hollow end of the at least one
first rail and a post receptacle positioned around the at least one
end post so that the connector joins the end post to the first
rail.
2. The fence panel of claim 1, further comprising a third rail
section located opposite the second rail section, the third rail
section having at least one second moveable rail positioned within
the hollow interior of the second tube, so that the at least one
second moveable rail can slide into and out of the second tube.
3. The fence panel of claim 2, wherein said first rail section
comprises three double tubes.
4. The fence panel of claim 3, wherein said second rail section
comprises three first moveable rails.
5. The fence panel of claim 4, wherein said third rail section
comprises at least three second moveable rails.
6. The fence panel of claim 5, wherein the at least one end post
comprises a first end post and a second end post.
7. The fence panel of claim 6, wherein the at least one
connector-comprises six connectors with three connectors joining
the first end posts to the three first moveable rails and with
three connectors joining the second end posts to the three second
moveable rails, respectively.
8. The fence panel of claim 7, wherein each of the three first
moveable rails and each of the three second moveable rails have at
least one locking tab receiving hole formed therethrough to a
hollow interior thereof.
9. The fence panel of claim 8, wherein each of the inserts of the
six connectors has at least one locking tab extending therefrom
that interacts with the at least one locking tab receiving hole, to
lock each of the connectors in place in the first and second
moveable rails, respectively, when said insert is inserted into
said hollow interior of the first and second moveable rails.
10. The fence panel of claim 9, further comprising a first
extension and a second extension, wherein the first extension is
arranged and disposed so that it can slide into and out of a hollow
interior of said first end post and wherein the second extension is
arranged and disposed so that it can slide into and out of a hollow
interior of said second end post.
11. The fence panel of claim 10, wherein each of said first end
post, said second post, said first extension and said second
extension have at least one button receiving hole formed
therethrough to the hollow interior thereof.
12. The fence panel of claim 11, wherein each first and second
extensions have a hollow interior and a spring retention device
with at least one protrusion arranged and disposed within the
hollow interior of said first and second extensions, so that the at
least one protrusion extends through each of the first and second
extensions' at least one button receiving hole and interacts with
the first and second end posts' at least one button receiving hole,
respectively, to lock said first and second extensions to said
first and second end posts in a fully extended position.
13. The fence panel of claim 1, wherein the at least one connector
is at least one christmas tree connector
14. The fence panel of claim 13, wherein the at least one christmas
tree connector is spot welded to the at least one end post.
15. The fence panel of claim 1, wherein the first tube of the at
least one double tube and the at least one first moveable rail each
have at least one button receiving hole.
16. The fence panel of claim 15, wherein the at least one first
moveable rail has a hollow interior and a spring retention device,
with at least one protrusion, arranged and disposed in the hollow
interior of the at least one first moveable rail, so that the at
least one protrusion extends through the at least one first
moveable rail's one button receiving hole and interacts with the
first tube's at least one button receiving hole to lock the at
least one first moveable rail in place in its fully extended
position.
17. A method of forming a fence from collapsible panels, said
method comprising the steps of: (a) providing at least two
expandable and collapsible fence panels each having at least one
end post and a plurality of connectors positioned on the at least
one end post, each of the plurality of connectors having a pin
receptacle with a plurality of grooves; (b) providing at least one
pin having a shaft with a plurality of ribs and a pin head; (c)
expanding horizontally and vertically each of the at least two
panels; and (d) connecting the at least two fence panels together
by inserting the at least one pin into one of the pin receptacles
of one of the plurality of connectors on each of the end posts, so
that the ribs of the pin interact with the grooves of the pin
receptacle to prevent the at least two panels from freely pivoting
about the at least one pin.
18. The method of claim 17, further comprising the step of
disassembling the at least two fence panels by removing the
pin.
19. The method of claim 17, further comprising removing the panels
from a carrying bag prior to step (c).
20. The method of claim 17, further comprising placing the
assembled fence against a trailer, whereby the trailer forms a side
of the fence.
21. The method of claim 17, further comprising connecting one of
the panels to a pin receptacle mounted on the trailer.
22. The method of claim 17, wherein each fence panel comprises: (a)
a first rail section with at least one unitary double rail, said
double rail comprising a first tube and a second tube, each having
a hollow interior extending through the first and second tube; (b)
a second rail section having at least one first moveable rail
positioned within the hollow interior of the first tube of said
double tube, so that the at least one first rail can slide into and
out of the first tube; (c) at least one end post; and (d) at least
one connector having an insert located inside a hollow end of the
at least one first rail and a post receptacle positioned around the
at least one end post, so that the connector joins the end post to
the first rail.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 10/342,170, filed Jan. 13, 2003, which claims
the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/347,956,
filed Jan. 12, 2002.
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
[0002] 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.
[0003] 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.
[0004] 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.
[0005] It is know 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 rooms, e.g., to
provide a barrier for toddlers.
[0006] 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.
[0007] 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.
BRIEF INVENTION SUMMARY
[0008] 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.
[0009] 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.
[0010] 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 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.
[0011] 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.
[0012] 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.
[0013] 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.
[0014] 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.
[0015] Another advantage of avoiding the trailer mounting system
just noted is that a person owning horses may travel with a friend,
i.2e., 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.
[0016] 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.
[0017] 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 also 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.
[0018] 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 THE DRAWINGS
[0019] 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:
[0020] 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;
[0021] FIG. 2 is an elevational view of a fence panel of the fence
illustrated in FIG. 1;
[0022] 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;
[0023] FIG. 3 is a fragmentary perspective -view illustrating the
pivotable attachment mechanism of two panels like that illustrated
in FIG. 2;
[0024] 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;
[0025] FIGS. 5a-5c are perspective views illustrating the pivotable
capability of fence panels relative to one another in accordance
with the present invention;
[0026] FIGS. 6a-6c are top views of possible geometric
configurations using fence panels in accordance with the present
invention;
[0027] 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;
[0028] 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;
[0029] FIGS. 9a-9c illustrate a pet carrier which is another
embodiment utilizing the principles of the present invention;
[0030] FIGS. 10a and 10b illustrate another embodiment of a fence
panel in accordance with the present invention;
[0031] FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating a carrying case
for a series of fence panels in accordance with the present
invention;
[0032] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a
fence panel in accordance with the present invention;
[0033] FIG. 13 is a perspective view, partially in phantom, showing
the expandable and contractible ability of the panel shown in FIG.
12;
[0034] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the panel shown in FIG. 12
in the fully contracted position;
[0035] FIG. 15 is an elevational view of the panel shown in FIG.
14;
[0036] FIG. 16 is an elevational view of the embodiment shown in
FIG. 12 in the fully expanded position;
[0037] FIG. 17 is a perspective view one embodiment of a rail
section or end post;
[0038] FIG. 18 is a fragmentary perspective view of a clamping
member;
[0039] FIG. 19 is a fragmentary perspective view of a connecting
member;
[0040] FIG. 20 is an enlarged perspective view of a clamping
member;
[0041] FIG. 21 is a fragmentary perspective view showing how two
panels may be releasably and pivotally connected;
[0042] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a foot;
[0043] FIG. 22a is a perspective view of a base peg;
[0044] 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.
[0045] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a
fence panel in the fully contracted position;
[0046] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a support post utilized in
the panel of FIG. 24;
[0047] FIG. 26 is a side view of a clamp connector utilized in the
panel of FIG. 24;
[0048] FIG. 27 is a perspective view of the panel shown in FIG. 24
in the fully expanded position;
[0049] FIG. 28 is a perspective view of a christmas tree connector
used in the panel of FIG. 24;
[0050] FIG. 29 is a perspective view of a rail used in the panel of
FIG. 27;
[0051] FIG. 30 is a side view of a spring retention device (also
shown in FIG. 32) utilized in the panel of FIG. 24 (not shown);
[0052] FIG. 31 is a perspective view of two panels of FIG. 24
releasably connected to one another;
[0053] FIG. 32 is a close up view of section A-A of FIG. 31;
[0054] FIG. 33 is a perspective view of a pin utilized in to
connect the panels of FIGS. 31 and 32.
[0055] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding
parts throughout the several views.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0056] 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.
[0057] 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 in rails 34, 34a and 34b
is that they are sized differently so as to telescopically fit into
one another, rail's 34 diameter being larger than rail's 34a
diameter and rail's 34a diameter being larger than rail's 34b
diameter. 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, extensions 38 are also
telescopically expandable as noted below. In its fully collapsed
state, the fence panel 22 of the illustrated embodiment is
approximately 34 inches wide by 30 inches tall. In its fully
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.
[0058] 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, 34a and 34b. This is accomplished by means
of end post telescopic extensions 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 left end post 36 and right
end post 37. Optionally, a foot 39 can be removably attached to
post extension 38, as shown in phantom, 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.
[0059] 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 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.
[0060] 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 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 (shown in FIG. 3) and the bottom fitting members
receive end post telescopic extensions 38. 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
"prepunch" 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.
[0061] 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.
[0062] 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 can 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 (shown in FIG. 4) of section 30
before the other half 44 can be snapped to the first half 44.
[0063] With reference to FIG. 2a, it can be appreciated that rails
34a telescopically slide into the cylindrical recesses formed by
corresponding rails 34. Importantly, cylindrics 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.
[0064] 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 shape of the cylindrical body 74 with
locking tabs 75 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 prevents pin 70 from being removed from
connectors 46 and 48 and the pin holds the connectors together.
Consequently, two panels 22 are joined together by their respective
connectors 46 and 48.
[0065] It is to be understood that a connector such as connector 46
or 48 can be mounted to trailer 24 (shown in 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.
[0066] 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 FIG. 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.
[0067] 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 (shown in FIG. 6a), a closed octagon (shown
in FIG. 6b) and a closed square (shown in 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.
[0068] 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 in diameter so as to telescopically
engage one another. 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.
[0069] 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). Comparing
panel 136 to panel 22 of FIG. 2, panel 136 has four sections 128,
130, 132 and 134 instead of three and has a plurality of telescopic
rails in each section instead of just three.
[0070] Turning now to FIG. 11 a carrying case 136 is provided to
hold and transport several panels 22. Carrying case 137 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 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. 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.
[0071] 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 in width by 30 inches in
height by 10 feet in 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.
[0072] FIG. 12 shows another embodiment of a collapsible and
expandable fence panel. 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 one rail 204 stacked on top of another rail 204a and
positioned in a common vertical plane with 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 201b comprises a
plurality of rails 206 affixed to end post 210. A second bottom
extension post 214 is slideably engaged with end post 210 and
extends downward therefrom in a telescopic arrangement as described
above.
[0073] Section 201a slideably 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 an 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. Thus, rails 202
slide into middle section's 201a rails 204 and rails 206 slide into
the middle section's rails 204a when panel 200 is collapsed.
[0074] 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.
[0075] 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, extension 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.
[0076] The vertical disposition of rails 204 and 204a 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.
[0077] 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
members 230 prevent sagging of the horizontal rails 202, 204 and
206. In this Figure, 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 pair 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.
[0078] 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.
[0079] Referring now to FIG. 16, rails 204 and 204a of section 201a
allow insertion to and extension of 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.
[0080] 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.
[0081] 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. Protrusions 250
secure tubular 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.
[0082] Turning now to FIG. 19, the assembly of clamping body 220
which forms a top right 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 with 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 so that the further the tapered sleeve is slid, the
tighter the connection between halves 221 and 223 becomes.
[0083] 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. In the same
manner as protrusions 253 and 255 of clamping body 220 fit into
complimentary opening 257 of rail 236 and opening 261 of post 210,
protrusions 260a of clamping body 226 fit into and mate with
complimentary openings in rail sections 204 and 204a and
protrusions 262a fit into and mate with complimentary openings in
vertical members 230.
[0084] 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 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.
[0085] 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.
[0086] 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
with a stake member 282. Foot 280 has at its upper end a tubular
receptor 276, again for slidable receipt of extension posts 212 or
214. The stake member 282 as shown can be inserted into soil to
secure panel 200 to the ground.
[0087] 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.
[0088] The above-described embodiments of the fence panels explain
that the fence panels can be connected to one another pivotly and
releaseably. However, in some situations, it may be desirable to
prevent the fence panels from pivoting about the pins that connect
them to one another. Moreover, it is also desirable to decrease the
number of parts necessary to manufacture the previously described
fence panels by utilizing one-piece connectors instead of
multi-piece clamping bodies.
[0089] FIG. 24 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a
collapsible and expandable fence panel 300. As shown in FIG. 24,
fence panel 300 is in its collapsed position and comprises double
tubes 304. Each double tube 304 comprises an upper tube 305 and a
lower tube 306 that are intrical with one another. Each double tube
304 is a single piece of polypropylene or other suitable polymer
and is manufactured by an extrusion process. This single piece
structure increases the structural strength and stability of fence
panel 300 and reduces the number of parts needed to assemble panel
300. In this embodiment, there are three double tubes 304 and each
double tube is connected to another double tube by support posts
314.
[0090] FIG. 25 shows a perspective view of support post 314. As
shown in FIG. 25, support post 314 has two ends 342 that surround a
hollow opening 340 that runs the length of the post. Each support
post 314 has a total of four locking tab receiving holes 330, two
on opposite sides of posts 314 (only two are shown in FIG. 26).
Referring back to FIG. 24, each end of support post 314 is
connected to a clamp connector 315 that connect the support post to
two of the double tubes 304. FIG. 26 shows a side view of clamp
connector 315. As shown in FIG. 26, clamp connector 315 has a clamp
portion 338, a cover plate 349 and an insert 316. Insert 316 has a
plurality of ribs 346 and two locking tabs 317. Ribs 346 and
locking tabs 317 are arranged and dimensioned so that insert 316
can be inserted into hollow opening 340 to engage the interior side
of support post 314 when the insert is placed into opening 340 of
support post 314. When insert 316 is fully inserted into opening
340 of support post 314, clamp portion 315 and cover plate 349 are
placed adjacent to and cover one of the support post's end 342. In
this position, locking tabs 317 will interact with locking tab
receiving holes 330 (shown in FIG. 25) so that the clamp connecter
315 will be locked in place in support post 314. The process will
be repeated at the other end of the support post 314, so that the
support post will have two clamp connectors 315 inserted into both
of its ends 342 and locked into place by locking tabs 317.
[0091] FIG. 27 shows panel 300 in its fully expanded position. As
shown in FIG. 27, when panel 300 is fully expanded, it has a mid
section 302 with double rails 304, a left end section 310 and a
right end section 309. While left end section 310 and right end
section 309 are shown as a left end section and a right end section
in FIG. 27, either of these sections could be on the left end or
right end depending on how panel 300 is assembled or how one views
panel 300. Right end section 309 and left end section 310 each
comprise a set of three rails. Section 309 has three right end
rails 311 that each have a diameter that is less than the diameter
of lower tube 306. Rails 311 telescopically fit into lower tubes
306, so that each of the rails 311 slide in and out one of the
lower tubes 306 in order to collapse and expand section 309.
Similarly, section 310 has three left end rails 312 that each have
a diameter that is less than the diameter of upper tube 305. Rails
312 telescopically fit into upper tubes 305, so that each of the
rails slide in and out of tubes 305 in order to collapse and expand
section 310. While left end rails 312 and right end rails 311 are
in the same vertical plane, the left end rails are vertically
offset from right end rails and are positioned at a different
vertical elevation (in this case higher) relative to the right end
rails. Left end rails 312 and right end rails 311 are the same size
in diameter and in length.
[0092] Still referring to FIG. 27, panel 300 also has a left end
post 307 and a right end post 308. While left end post 307 and
right end 308 are shown as left end post and right end post in FIG.
27, either of these posts could be on the left side or right side
depending on how one views panel 300 or how panel 300 is assembled.
Two extensions 313 telescopically engage left end post 307 and
right end post 308. Each extension 313 has a diameter that is less
than the diameter of end posts 307 and 308, so that extensions 313
can slide into and out of either end posts 307 or 308. In this
manner, panel 300 can be vertically expanded.
[0093] A plurality of christmas tree connectors 318 connect each of
rails 312 to end post 307 and rails 311 to end post 308. FIG. 28
shows a perspective view of christmas tree connector 318. As shown
in FIG. 28, connector 318 has an insert 319 that is similar to
clamp connector's 315 insert 316. Insert 319 also has plurality of
ribs 346, cover plate 349 and two locking tabs 317 on opposite
sides of insert 319 (only one locking tab is show in FIG. 28).
christmas tree connector 318 also has a hollow post receptacle
opening 320 that extends the length of body 344. A pin receptacle
348 is intrically formed with christmas tree connector's body 344.
Pin receptacle 348 has an opening 322 with a plurality of grooves
323 that run the length of the receptacle.
[0094] FIG. 29 shows a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment
of a rail 311/312 that can be utilized as both the left end and
right end rails. As shown in FIG. 29, rail 311/312 has two ends 342
that surround a hollowing opening 340 that extends through the
length of the interior of the rail. Further, rail 311/312 has two
locking tab receiving holes 330 and two button receiving holes 344,
one on each side of rail 311/312 (only one of each hole is shown in
FIG. 29). When insert 319 is fully inserted into opening 340 of
rail 311/312, cover plate 349 is placed adjacent to and covers end
342. In this position, locking tabs 317 interact with locking tab
receiving holes 330 so that connector 318 will be locked in place
in rail 311/312. (shown in FIG. 27).
[0095] Referring to FIGS. 24 and 27, three christmas tree
connectors 318 are connected to each end post 307 and 308. Post
receptacle 320 of christmas tree connector 318 has a diameter that
is larger than the diameter of each of the end posts 307 and 308.
Each of the christmas tree connectors 318 is connected to each of
the end posts 307 and 308 by sliding each of the connectors' post
receptacles 320 around one of the posts. christmas tree connectors
318 are positioned on each end post 307 and 308 so that each of the
connectors' 319 engage one of the rails 311 or 312. Thus, like
rails 311 and 312, the christmas tree connectors 318 on left end
post 307 are vertically offset from the christmas tree connectors
on right end post 308 so that the connectors on the left end post
are positioned vertically higher than the connectors on the right
end post. Once christmas tree connectors 318 are placed in the
proper position, each of the christmas tree connectors can be spot
welded so that the christmas tree connectors do not slide out of
position. Once each connector 318 is connected to its respective
end post 307 or 308 and inserted into its respective rails 311 or
312, each of the rails will be connected to one of the end posts to
form left end section 310 and right end section 309.
[0096] Referring to FIGS. 27 and 29, each rail 312 and 311 and each
upper tube 305 and lower tube 306 have one button receiving hole
334. These button receiving holes 334 interact with a spring
retention device that locks rails 311 and 312 in their fully
extended position. FIG. 30 shows a side view of a spring retention
device 332. As shown in FIG. 30, spring retention device 332 is a
single piece of spring metal that is bent about its center 350 so
that its ends 352 can be pinched closer together. As ends 352 are
pinched closer together, spring tension will build about center 350
so that once the pinching force is removed ends 352 will expand
back out to their original position. Each end 352 has a protrusion
that forms a button 336.
[0097] Referring to FIGS. 29 and 30, spring retention device's
center 350 is inserted into the rail's end 342 with button
receiving holes 334. As center 350 is inserted into opening 340,
ends 352 of the spring retention device 332 are pinched together so
that buttons 336 can fit inside opening 340. Buttons 336 are
pinched closer together until they reach button receiving holes
334. At that point, the spring retention device 332 will spring
back out so that buttons 336 fit into and through button receiving
holes 334 of rails 311 and 312. After spring retention device 332
is inserted into each of the rails 311 and 312, the rail can then
be inserted into double tubes 304. This is accomplished by sliding
end 342 with spring retention device 332 into either upper tube 305
or lower tube 306 while depressing buttons 336. Buttons 336 will
contact the interior of either upper tube 305 or lower tube 306 and
be prevented from expanding back out. Once button 336 and spring
retention device 332 reaches the button receiving hole 334 of
either upper tube 305 or lower tube 306, spring retention device
332 will expand back out so that the buttons pass through the
receiving holes 334 of the rail and the tube. In this position,
rails 311 and 312 will be locked in their fully expanded
position.
[0098] To collapse panel 300, a person can depress buttons 336 so
that ends 352 pinch closer to one another. The interior surface of
tubes 305 and 306 prevents spring retention device 332 from
expanding back out and rails 311 and 312 slide respectively into
tubes 305 and 306 until panel 300 is in its fully collapsed
position (shown in FIG. 24). While this embodiment of panel 300
shows each upper tube 305 and lower tube 306 with a button
receiving hole 334, it is advantageous to only have two double
tubes 304 with button receiving holes 334 on its upper tubes 305
and lower tubes 306. In such an embodiment, one person can use his
or her hands to push each of the buttons 336 in order to collapse
each section of panel 300. If more than two double tubes 304 have
button receiving holes 334, then more than one person will be
needed to collapse each section.
[0099] Referring to FIG. 27, end posts 307 and 308 also have button
receiving holes 334. Although not specifically shown, extensions
313 also have button holes 334 and spring retention devices 332. As
already described in relation to rails 311 and 312, spring
retention device 332 will lock extensions 313 in its fully extended
position.
[0100] Each of these panels 300 can be connected to one another.
FIG. 31 shows two panels 300 connected to one another by a
plurality of pins 324. FIG. 32 shows a close up view of section A-A
of FIG. 31. As shown in FIG. 32, the christmas tree connectors 318
on end post 307 are placed in a higher position than the christmas
tree connectors on end post 308. Thus, when panels 300 are
connected to one another, the christmas tree connectors of end post
308 and christmas tree connectors of end post 307 will be arranged
so that the vertical axis of each connector's pin receptacle 348
will be aligned with each other, so that pin 324 can be inserted
through each of the pin receptacle openings 322.
[0101] FIG. 33 shows a perspective view of pin 324. As shown in
FIG. 33, pin 324 has a flat circular pin head 327 positioned on top
of the pin shaft 354. Pin shaft 354 has a plurality of ribs 328
that extend the entire length of the shaft. Shaft 354 also has two
flexible legs 325 with two locking nubs 326 that extend outwardly
from the shaft. Legs 325 are long enough and flexible enough to
allow the locking nubs 326 to be pinched closer together. Legs 325
will have enough spring tension so that once any force used to
pinch nubs 326 closer together is removed, the nubs will expand
back out to their original position.
[0102] Referring back to FIG. 32, in order to join two panels 300
together, pin 324 is inserted through each of the pin's receptacles
348 in order to join the christmas tree connectors 318 of the left
end post 307 to the christmas tree connectors on the right end
post. As pin 324 is inserted, each of the ribs 328 fit into and
interact with grooves 323. The interaction between ribs 328 and
grooves 323 will prevent panel 300 from being able to freely pivot
about pin 324. Thus, unlike the previously described embodiments,
panels 300 will be joined together and held in position by pins 324
and will not be able to pivot. Panels 300 can still be positioned
into any of the arrangements shown in FIGS. 5a-6c by positioning
the panels relative to one another in the desired pattern and then
inserting pin 324. If a new pattern is desired, pins 324 can be
removed and panels 300 can be rearranged. Locking nubs 326 normally
have a greater width than grooves 323 and pin head 327 has a
diameter that is larger than opening 322, so that once pin 324
passes through both pin receptacles 348, the locking nubs and the
pin head will prevent the pin from being removed. Thus, to remove
pin 327 from receptacles 348, locking nubs 326 must be pinched
closer together until they clear the edge of opening 322 so that
the pin 324 can be pulled through opening 322 and removed.
[0103] All of the described embodiments of these fence panels 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 for
the rails and cylindrical members and injection molding for the
clamping bodies.
[0104] While exemplary embodiments of the present invention have
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.
* * * * *