U.S. patent application number 11/037865 was filed with the patent office on 2006-02-02 for fixture and mounting assembly for a fence post.
Invention is credited to Earle S. IV Collins.
Application Number | 20060022189 11/037865 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 35968011 |
Filed Date | 2006-02-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060022189 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Collins; Earle S. IV |
February 2, 2006 |
Fixture and mounting assembly for a fence post
Abstract
A post assembly for a hollow post includes an elongated support,
preferably a standard pipe, at least one fixture, and, optionally,
a mount. The fixture includes a fitting having a bore for receiving
the elongated support, and a web that extends from the fitting to
support a plurality of friction plates adapted to engage the inner
walls of the hollow post. When employed, the mount allows for
adjustment of the vertical alignment of the elongated support. The
elongated support is attached to a bracket which is positioned over
a base having a plurality of members extending upward through holes
in the bracket. Movement of adjustment members positioned between
the base and bracket allow for adjustment of the angle of the
elongated support. A method of installation using the fixtures and
mounts of the invention is also provided.
Inventors: |
Collins; Earle S. IV;
(Margate, NJ) |
Correspondence
Address: |
LERNER, DAVID, LITTENBERG,;KRUMHOLZ & MENTLIK
600 SOUTH AVENUE WEST
WESTFIELD
NJ
07090
US
|
Family ID: |
35968011 |
Appl. No.: |
11/037865 |
Filed: |
January 18, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10903026 |
Jul 30, 2004 |
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11037865 |
Jan 18, 2005 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
256/65.14 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E04H 12/2261 20130101;
Y10S 256/05 20130101; E04H 17/20 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
256/065.14 |
International
Class: |
E04H 17/00 20060101
E04H017/00 |
Claims
1. A post assembly comprising: an elongated support structure; a
hollow post having an inner cross-section defined by a plurality of
inner walls, said support structure disposed within said post; and
at least one fixture disposed within said post, said fixture
comprising a fitting having a bore, said support structure disposed
within said bore and secured thereto by at least one fastener, a
web extending outwardly from said fitting, a plurality of friction
plates extending from said web, each friction plate having a first
surface engaging a portion of one of said inner walls of said post,
said friction plates positioned so that at least two opposing inner
walls of said post are frictionally engaged by opposing friction
plates; and a plurality of support fins connected between said web
and said friction plates.
2. The post assembly of claim 1, wherein said fixture includes four
friction plates, each friction plate engaging a separate inner wall
of said post, said fixture further comprising at least one support
fin connected between said web and each said friction plate.
3. The post assembly of claim 1, wherein said web comprises a
horizontal plate, said horizontal plate including four peripheral
edges and having a length and width less than that of said inner
cross-section of said hollow post, said friction plates extending
from respective edges of said horizontal plate at an obtuse angle,
said support fins extending transverse to said horizontal plate and
from respective edges of said friction plates.
4. The post assembly of claim 2, wherein said friction plates
define a hollow cavity underlying said web, said fitting extending
into said hollow cavity, at least one of said friction plates
having an access opening through which said fastener can be engaged
to secure said fixture to said support structure.
5. The post assembly of claim 1, wherein said support structure
includes a longitudinal axis, and said fitting comprises an
elongated hollow cylinder defining said bore, said web extending
outwardly from said fitting transverse to said longitudinal axis of
said support structure, said fitting further comprising at least
one elongated expansion slot.
6. A post assembly comprising: a hollow post having a square inner
cross-section defined by four inner walls; a pipe including a
longitudinal axis disposed within said post; and at least one
fixture disposed within said post, said fixture comprising a
fitting having a bore, said pipe disposed within said bore and
secured thereto by at least one fastener, a web extending from said
fitting transverse to said longitudinal axis of said pipe, four
friction plates extending from said web, each friction plate having
a first surface that engages one of said inner walls of said post
along a portion thereof, said friction plates positioned so that
each of said inner walls of said post are frictionally engaged by a
separate friction plate, and a plurality of support fins connected
between said web and said friction plates.
7. The post assembly of claim 6, wherein said web comprises a
horizontal plate, said horizontal plate including four peripheral
edges and having a length and width less than that of said inner
cross-section of said hollow post, said friction plates extending
from respective edges of said horizontal plate at an obtuse angle,
said support fins extending transverse to said horizontal plate and
from respective edges of said friction plates.
8. The post assembly of claim 6, wherein said friction plates
define a hollow cavity underlying said web, said fitting extending
into said hollow cavity, at least one of said friction plates
having an access opening through which said fastener can be engaged
to secure said fixture to said support structure.
9. The post assembly of claim 6, wherein said support structure
includes a longitudinal axis, and said fitting comprises an
elongated hollow cylinder defining said bore, said web extending
outwardly from said fitting transverse to said longitudinal axis of
said pipe, said fitting further comprising at least one elongated
expansion slot.
10. The post assembly of claim 9, wherein said fitting includes
four elongated expansion slots.
11. A fixture for mounting a hollow post to a support structure
comprising: a fitting including a bore adapted to receive an
elongated support structure; a web extending from said fitting; a
plurality of friction plates extending from and connected to said
web, and a plurality of support fins connected between said web and
said friction plates.
12. The fixture of claim 11, further comprising a fastener for
securing said fixture to said support structure.
13. The fixture of claim 11, wherein said fixture includes four
friction plates, each friction plate having at least one support
fin connected thereto.
14. The fixture of claim 11, wherein said fitting includes at least
one hole adapted to receive a threaded fastener for securing said
fitting to said elongated support structure.
15. The fixture of claim 11, wherein said bore is cylindrical, and
wherein said elongated support structure has a cylindrical shape,
said fitting further comprising at least one elongated expansion
slot.
16. The fixture of claim 11, wherein said web includes a horizontal
plate, said horizontal plate including four peripheral edges, said
friction plates extending from said respective edges of said
horizontal plate at an obtuse angle, said support fins extending
transverse to said horizontal plate and from respective edges of
said friction plates.
17. The post assembly of claim 15, wherein said fitting includes
four elongated expansion slots.
18. The fixture of claim 12, wherein said friction plates define a
hollow cavity underlying said web, said fitting extending into said
hollow cavity, at least one of said friction plates having an
access opening through which said fastener can be engaged to secure
said fixture to said support structure.
19. A fixture for mounting a hollow post comprising: a fitting
having a cylindrical bore adapted to receive a support pipe, said
bore having a longitudinal axis, said fitting having at least one
elongated expansion slot; a fastener for securing said fixture to
said support pipe; and a rectangular plate having four peripheral
edges and extending outwardly from said fitting perpendicular to
said longitudinal axis, said fitting positioned centrally with
respect to said plate; and a plurality of friction plates, at least
two of said friction plates extending from opposing edges of said
rectangular plate.
20. The fixture of claim 19, wherein said fixture includes four
friction plates, each friction plate extending from a separate
peripheral edge of said rectangular plate.
21. The fixture of claim 19, wherein said friction plates extend
from said respective edges of said rectangular plate at an obtuse
angle formed between said rectangular plate and said friction
plate.
22. The fixture of claim 19, wherein said friction plates define a
hollow cavity underlying said rectangular plate, said fitting
extending into said hollow cavity, at least one of said friction
plates having an access opening through which said fastener can be
engaged to secure said fixture to said pipe.
23. The fixture as in any one of claims 19-22, further comprising a
plurality of support fins, said support fins connected between said
web and one of said friction plates.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation in part of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 10/903,026, filed Jul. 30, 2004, entitled
Fixture And Mounting Assembly For A Fence Post, the disclosure of
which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] In recent years, plastic, and particularly vinyl fences have
become common and popular as an alternative to traditional wood
fencing. These fences are stronger, longer lasting, safer, and
virtually maintenance free. They are also largely weather resistant
and impervious to pests such as termites. The color of the vinyl is
integral to the fence, and the vinyl composition is often modified
to incorporate ultraviolet protective agents (such as titanium
oxide), eliminating the need for paints or stains. Vinyl fencing
can come in a variety of styles, mimicking traditional picket,
semi-private, privacy, and even wrought iron fencing. Most fence
posts for vinyl fencing are of hollow construction, and while a
variety of shapes are possible, the most common has a square
cross-section and a corresponding square inner cross-section.
[0003] The conventional method for installing a post, including
vinyl fence posts, has been to excavate a post hole, place the post
into the hole, and secure the post using concrete. However, a
variety of devices have been proposed as an alternative method of
installation.
[0004] For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,709,366 to Speece discloses a
fence post support which includes a ground engaging spike and an
upper portion for engaging the hollow end of a fence post. The
post-engaging element includes a pair of angle irons in an X-shaped
configuration, the edges of which are adapted to engage the
interior corners of the square-shaped interior of a hollow fence
post. Also disclosed is a threaded element for expanding the angles
of the post-engaging element, thereby securing the fence post to
the support.
[0005] One drawback of the device disclosed in Speece is that the
fence post is supported from the base only. Often, and particularly
with respect to hollow fence posts, additional support against
lateral forces applied to the fence post are desired. This is
particularly true for endposts and gateposts. Traditionally, this
has been addressed by simply placing treated wooden stakes or rebar
(steel rods) within the post prior to setting in concrete. However,
several fixtures have been proposed as an improved alternative.
[0006] For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,755,431 to Williams discloses a
fixture which secures a hollow fence post to a "T" shaped stake
which can be driven into the ground. The fixture includes a central
inner housing for frictionally engaging the stake, and an outer,
generally triangular peripheral member connected to the inner
housing by a web. The triangular peripheral member is adapted to
frictionally engage the post along the three corners thereof. These
fixtures can be provided at multiple locations within the fence
post to provide additional support.
[0007] Because it is readily available, relatively inexpensive, and
easily cut to required lengths, standard pipe is an excellent
support structure for hollow fence posts. Fixtures used in
connection with standard pipes have been utilized to provide
additional support and account for differences between the size of
the pipe and the inner dimensions of the fence post.
[0008] For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,704,188 to Coulis employs
coiled springs which fit tightly around an anchored pipe, the
coiled springs having extensions which fit into the interior
corners of a hollow rectangular fence post.
[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 6,523,808 to Lehmann discloses a fixture
constructed of a pair of connected inner and outer cylinders. The
inner cylinder extends beyond one end of the outer cylinder and has
holes therein for fastening the fixture to a pipe. The outer
cylinder is connected to the inner cylinder by a web, a hollow
fence post can then be fitted over the outer cylinder.
[0010] In the many uses of posts supported by the various means
discussed above, and particularly in the construction of fences, it
is often necessary to attach hardware, such as brackets and hinges.
While there are many advantages to using hollow vinyl posts, the
conventional method of using screws to attach such hardware is
problematic because the thickness of the walls of the posts is
often insufficient. It would therefore be advantageous to provide a
fixture for a hollow post that, in addition to positioning the
post, provides additional support for conventional hardware.
[0011] Moreover, in the vinyl fence post industry, there are many
manufacturers, and the interior dimensions of such fence posts can
vary significantly. Accordingly, it is desirable to provide a
fixture for a hollow fence post that accounts for differences in
design and acceptable manufacturing tolerances.
[0012] Generally, it would be very desirable to have a fixture for
securing a hollow post to a support structure such as a standard
pipe that is simple, versatile and easily manufactured.
[0013] In some instances, a post such as that employed in vinyl
fencing is not secured to the ground, but is instead attached to a
structure, such as a wood deck or a cement floor. In those
instances, a mount having a base plate for attachment to a
structure is typically employed.
[0014] For example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,508,457 to Knudson et al.
describes a mount for a vinyl fence post that includes a base
having mounting holes for attachment to a structure. Extending from
the base is a pair of elongated support members in an X-shaped
configuration providing contact with the inner corners of a hollow
fence post having a rectangular cross-section.
[0015] U.S. Pat. No. 5,359,827 to Gehman discloses a mount for a
hollow fence post including a base plate with holes for receiving
set screws for attachment to a base. Extending vertically from the
four corners of the rectangular base plate are four angle irons.
Attached to the opposite end of the angle irons is a rectangular
top plate which can be adjusted by a screw mechanism to lock the
fixture against the inside corners of the fence post.
[0016] U.S. Pat. No. 3,924,834 to Young discloses a newel post for
a balustrade which is mounted using a clamping mechanism having a
pair of expandable wedges. A bolt passed through a hole in a boss
and engages the wedges, causing them to bear against the inside
wall of the hollow newel post and clamp the boss to a nut
positioned in the bore of a substrate.
[0017] One problem associated with the mounts of the prior art lies
in adjusting the vertical alignment of the post. Variations in the
surface of, for example, a wood deck, can cause a post using such
mounts to lean at an undesirable angle. In some instances, the
structure may simply not be appropriately level. To correct the
vertical alignment, it is often necessary to use a shim, which can
be unsightly and unstable.
[0018] For example, U.S. Published Application No. 2003/0233793 to
Burkart et al. relates to a post mounting system having
individually adjustable angled clamping members which contact the
interior of a hollow plastic post and secure the post against the
retaining wall of a base member. Disclosed therein is an angled
circular shim member that can be fitted under the entire base
member of the mount to adjust the vertical alignment.
[0019] Thus, also needed are improvements with respect to mounts
for hollow posts that overcome the shortcomings of the above
devices.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0020] The general purpose of the present invention is to provide
new and improved post assemblies, fixtures and mounts for use in
connection with the installation of hollow posts, and methods of
installation using these new and improved devices.
[0021] In one embodiment, there is provided a fixture for mounting
a hollow post to an elongated support structure such as a pipe. The
fixture includes a fitting having a bore adapted to receive the
support structure. Extending from the fitting is a web that
connects the fitting to a plurality of friction plates. Preferably,
the fixture includes four friction plates, and includes a fastener
for securing the fixture to the support structure.
[0022] A preferred embodiment of the fixture includes a web in the
form of a horizontal plate having four peripheral edges from which
four friction plates extend. It is also preferred that the friction
plates extend from the respective edges of the horizontal plate at
an obtuse angle formed between the horizontal plate and the
friction plate.
[0023] In another embodiment, the friction plates define a hollow
cavity underlying the web, and the fitting extends within that
cavity. In the case where fasteners used to connect the fitting to
a pipe are located within this cavity, at least one of the friction
plates is provided with an access opening so that the fastener can
be engaged or disengaged to secure or release the fixture from the
pipe.
[0024] In another embodiment, provided is a post assembly including
one or more fixtures such as those just described to position a
hollow post in relation to a pipe. The post assembly includes a
standard pipe which is positioned within a hollow post having a
square inner cross-section defined by a plurality of inner walls.
For positioning the hollow post over the pipe, there is provided at
least one fixture disposed within the post, the fixture including a
fitting having a bore, the pipe being disposed within the bore and
secured thereto by a fastener. A web extends outwardly from the
fitting, and a plurality of friction plates extend from the web,
each friction plate having a surface for engaging an inner wall of
the hollow post. The friction plates are situated so that at least
two opposing inner walls of the hollow post are engaged.
Preferably, the fixture includes four such friction plates, each
friction plate engaging a separate inner wall of the post.
[0025] Another embodiment of the invention relates to an adjustable
mount for a hollow post. The adjustable mount includes an elongated
support structure, such as a pipe, which is adapted for positioning
within a hollow fence post. The support structure extends from a
mounting bracket which is positioned over a base. Extending
upwardly from the base are a number of threaded members which
extend through a number of holes in the mounting bracket.
Adjustment members, such as a conventional nut, are positioned onto
each of the threaded members between the base and the mounting
bracket, so that movement of the adjustment members adjusts the
angle of the elongated support structure relative to the base.
[0026] Another embodiment of the invention is a post assembly that
combines a pipe, one or more fixtures and an adjustable mount. A
hollow post is provided having a square inner cross-section defined
by four inner walls. A pipe is disposed within the post, secured to
one of more fixtures. The fixtures include a fitting and a web
connecting the fitting to a number of friction plates. The pipe is
disposed within a bore in the fitting and secured thereto by at
least one fastener. The web extends outwardly from the fitting, and
a number of friction plates extend from the web, each friction
plate having a surface that engages one of the inner walls of the
post, the friction plates positioned so that at least two opposing
inner walls are engaged by separate friction plates.
[0027] The adjustable mount of this embodiment includes a mounting
bracket having a number of holes therein, the pipe extending from
the mounting bracket, and a base underlying the bracket and having
a number of threaded members extending upwardly through the holes.
An adjustment member is positioned on each of the threaded members
between the bracket and the base, whereby movement of the
adjustment member along the threaded member adjusts the angle of
the pipe relative to the base.
[0028] Also provided is a method of installing a hollow post
including the steps of mounting a pipe to a structure such as the
ground or a wood deck, securing a fixture such as those just
described to the pipe, and then fitting a hollow post over the pipe
and fixture. In another embodiment, an adjustable mount such as
those described above is employed to mount the pipe to a structure,
and the installation method includes the step of adjusting the
vertical position of the pipe by rotating one or more of the
adjustment members.
[0029] Additional features and benefits of the present invention
are provided in the particular embodiments of the invention
described herein in the Detailed Description of the invention, as
well as in the various embodiments of the invention set forth in
the accompanying figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0030] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a post assembly including a
hollow post, two fixtures and an elongated support.
[0031] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a preferred fixture of the
invention.
[0032] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the
invention.
[0033] FIG. 4 is a bottom perspective view of a preferred fixture
of the invention.
[0034] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a fixture for a hollow post
having two opposing friction plates.
[0035] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a fixture for a hollow post
without access openings.
[0036] FIG. 7 is a side view of an adjustable mount for a hollow
fence post.
[0037] FIG. 8 is a side perspective view of an adjustable mount for
a hollow fence post.
[0038] FIG. 9 shows an adjustable mount of the invention in
disassembled format.
[0039] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a fixture having a fitting
with positioning wedges.
[0040] FIG. 11 is a side cross-sectional view of a fitting with
positioning wedges.
[0041] FIG. 12 is a side cross-sectional view of a fitting having
positioning strips.
[0042] FIG. 13 is a side cross-sectional view of a fixture having
support fins and expansion slots.
[0043] FIG. 14 is a bottom perspective view of a fixture having
support fins and expansion slots.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0044] Throughout the drawings similar numbers are used to indicate
similar structures in the various embodiments of the invention.
[0045] In describing the preferred embodiments of the subject
matter illustrated and to be described with respect to the
drawings, specific terminology will be resorted to for the sake of
clarity. However, the invention is not intended to be limited to
the specific terms so selected and it is to be understood that each
specific term includes all technical equivalents which operate in a
similar manner to accomplish a similar result.
[0046] The present invention pertains to a post assembly, and
particularly to a post assembly for a hollow vinyl fence post.
Referring to FIG. 1, a preferred embodiment of a post assembly 20
is shown. The post assembly 20 includes at least one fixture 10
(two fixtures are shown) which is employed to position a hollow
post 12 in relation to an elongated support structure 14. The
support structure 14 is mounted to a base structure 18, which may
be, for example, an earth base, a wooden or vinyl deck, or a cement
floor.
[0047] In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the elongated
support structure 14 is a standard cylindrical pipe. Pipe of this
type is a common construction material, being inexpensive and easy
to work with in that it can be readily cut to any desired length.
However, a variety of elongated support structures can be used and
the dimensions of the bore 28 of fittings 22 (FIG. 2) can be
adapted accordingly. For example, a rod having a square or
cylindrical cross section can readily be used in place of a pipe,
as well as other shapes such as polygonal, rectangular, oval and
the like.
[0048] Positioning elongated support structure 14 within a hollow
post 12 is accomplished by using one or more fixtures 10, which are
depicted in greater detail in FIGS. 2-6. The basic elements of
fixtures 10 of the invention are a central fitting 22, a web 24,
and a plurality of friction plates 26. A preferred embodiment of a
fixture 10 of the invention is depicted in FIG. 2.
[0049] Fitting 22 is preferably in the form of a cylinder, open at
both ends, with an outer surface 32, and a bore 28. The bore 28 is
adapted to receive elongated support structure 14, and is
preferably cylindrical to accommodate a cylindrical pipe. The
dimensions of the bore can be adapted to receive any number of
elongated support structures known to those of skill in the art.
The dimensions of the bore 28 should permit the fitting 22 to be
easily moved to a desired vertical position along the elongated
support 14, and at the same time, minimize the amount of movement
of the elongated support 14 within the bore 28. In one embodiment,
the dimensions of the bore 28 are only slightly greater than those
of the exterior of the elongated support 14, such that some
frictional resistance is provided between the outer surface of the
elongated support 14 and the inner surface defining the bore
28.
[0050] Optionally, one or more protrusions 120 (FIGS. 10-12) may be
provided within the bore 28 of the fitting 22 which assist in
positioning the elongated support 14 within the bore 28.
Preferably, two such protrusions are provided, more preferably
three or more are provided to insure that the elongated support 14
is positioned centrally within the bore 28. Preferably, two sets of
such protrusions 120, an upper and lower set are provided as
depicted in FIGS. 10-12.
[0051] In one embodiment these protrusions 120 are in the form of a
wedge, the thin, leading portion of the wedge being positioned
downward within the bore 28 to allow the fixture 10 to be fitted
onto the elongated support 14 (FIGS. 10-11). The wedges 120 are
preferably made of a resilient material that will give when the
elongated support 14 is fitted into place. Referring to FIG. 12, in
an alternative embodiment, the protrusions comprise a strip of
materially, preferably rectangular in shape, resiliently connected
to an inner wall of said fitting 22.
[0052] In a preferred embodiment shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, instead
of protrusions, the fitting 22 includes more than one, preferably
two, and more preferably four, longitudinal expansion slots 70.
These slots 70 allow the fitting 22 to expand radially, which
provides for an easy fitting over an elongated support structure
14. This radial expansion is also beneficial in that the fixture
can allow for some variation in the size, and defects or damage to,
the elongated support structure 14.
[0053] As shown, the slots extend from the bottom of fitting 22
along the length thereof. The length of these slots is not
critical, however, one should recognize that the longer the slot
70, the greater the flexibility provided to fitting 22. In another
embodiment, one or more slots can run the entire length of the
fitting, providing maximum flexibility. However, in the preferred
embodiment a portion of the fitting should remain as a solid
cylinder to provide strength to the fitting against external forces
applied to a post fitted on the fixture. Similarly, the width of
the slots is not critical, and the term "slot" can refer to a
simple slit or gap in the fitting 22.
[0054] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the fixture 10 will
include four such expansion slots 70, arranged in equal radially
spaced apart positions about the circumference of the fitting 22.
As shown in FIG. 14, in the preferred embodiment, the slots 70 are
positioned towards the corners of the fixture.
[0055] In the mounting of a hollow post, the position of the
fixtures 10 within the post can be adjusted to meet the needs of
the particular application. Once in position, the fixture 10 can be
secured in place by means of a fastener 32, by way of a threaded
bolt or screw 36 received by a hole 34 as shown in FIG. 2. In a
preferred embodiment, a screw is employed which is driven into the
elongated support structure 14. In the case where a bolt is
employed, the hole 34 can be threaded to receive the bolt. In the
preferred embodiment, fitting 22 will include more than one, more
preferably four, such holes 34 spaced equidistantly apart from one
another about the circumference of the cylindrical fixture.
[0056] Other methods of positioning the fixtures 10 in relation to
an elongated support structure 14 should be recognized by those of
skill in the art. For example, an adjustable clamp can be employed,
or an o-ring can be fitted around the elongated support 14 above
and/or below the fitting 22. In some applications, it may be
desirable to position a fixture 10 at the end of an elongated
support 14. In that instance a fixture 10 can be provided wherein
the upper end of the fitting 22 includes a stop (not shown), or the
uppermost end of the bore is enclosed. In yet another embodiment,
the elongated support structure 14 may include one or more stops
(not shown), such as a circumferential lip, or holes for a pin,
upon which the fitting 22 may rest.
[0057] Extending from the fitting 22 is a web 24 that serves to
connect the fitting 22 to a plurality of friction plates 26. In the
preferred embodiment (FIG. 2), fitting 22 extends below web 24.
However, fitting 22 can also extend above and/or below web 24 as
depicted in FIGS. 3, 5 and 6.
[0058] As depicted in FIGS. 2-6, in the preferred embodiment, web
24 is in the form of a horizontal, square plate. The shape of the
web 24 is not essential so long as it provides adequate support for
the friction plates 26 against typical forces that might be applied
to the hollow post once assembled. In some embodiments, support
fins 50 such as those depicted in FIG. 4 can be employed to provide
additional strength to the web 24. In FIG. 4, the support fins 50
are shown radially extending from the fitting 22.
[0059] There are a number of manufacturers of hollow posts, and
particularly vinyl fence posts, and the inner dimensions of such
posts can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, by design, and
within acceptable manufacturing tolerances. To accommodate for
these variations, the present invention uses resilient and/or
resiliently connected friction plates 26 to position the post in
relation to an elongated support 14.
[0060] In the preferred embodiment, friction plates 26 are
essentially rectangular in form, and connected to a plate-shaped
web 24 along the upper edge 38 thereof. In a preferred embodiment,
the vinyl material of which the fixture 10 is constructed forms a
resilient connection along edge 38 between the web 24 and friction
plate 26, allowing the plate to move inward when pressure is
applied against outer surface 40 of the friction plate 26. The
thickness and type of material employed at the connection
determines the resiliency of the connection, which also affects the
amount of frictional resistance applied to the inner surface of the
hollow post.
[0061] Referring again to FIGS. 2-6, friction plates 26 include a
first, outer surface 40 for engaging a portion of an inner surface
46 (FIG. 1) of a rectangular hollow post along the width or length
thereof. Generally, bore 28 and pipe 14 share a common longitudinal
axis 44 and web 24 is disposed transverse thereto. Plate 24 has a
length L1 and a width W1 which are less than the length and width
(not shown) of the inner cross section of hollow post 12. Friction
plates 26 extend from edge 38 at an obtuse angle A (FIG. 2) such
that a length L2 (or width W2) (seen in FIGS. 2 and 5) formed
between two opposing friction plates 26 is greater than that of the
length and/or width (not shown) of the inner cross section of
hollow post 12. When a hollow post 12 is fitted over one or more
fixtures 10 secured to an elongated structure 14, the friction
plates 26 are forced inwards, frictionally engaging the inner
surfaces 46 (FIG. 1) of the hollow post.
[0062] In a preferred embodiment, in addition to the resilient
connection along edge 38, the friction plates 26 also are
constructed of a material, and of a thickness, that imparts a
certain amount of resiliency. Thus, in addition to flexing at edge
38, the friction plates may also bend against the inner surfaces 46
when disposed within a hollow post.
[0063] Although resiliency of the connection between the friction
plates 26 and the web 24 is employed to position the hollow post in
connection with the elongated support, the connection must also be
of sufficient strength to resist external forces applied to the
post in its assembled form without breaking. In the preferred
embodiment, support connectors 62 (FIG. 2) are included which
extend between adjacent friction plates 26 to impart additional
strength.
[0064] In yet another preferred embodiment, instead of support
connectors 62, the fixture 10 can employ a plurality of support
fins 72, as shown in FIGS. 13-14. The support fins 72 are formed at
the junction between the web 24 and friction plates 26. The support
fins 72 include an upper portion 74 with a first edge 78 connected
to the bottom of web 24. Extending from the upper portion 74 of the
support fins 72 is a lower portion 76. A second edge 80 extends
along the upper and lower portions 74, 76 and connects to inner
surface 82 of the friction plates 26. In a preferred embodiment,
the elongated second edge 80 extends almost the entire length of
the friction plates 26.
[0065] The support fins 72 tyically have a plate-like structure.
The thickness of the fins 72, and the dimensions of the fins
overall, can be varied, thereby affecting the strength and rigidity
of the friction plates, and the resulting amount of resistance
provided when a hollow post is fitted onto the fixture 10. For
example, length of the lower portion 76 can be varied, the longer
structure providing greater strength and rigidity.
[0066] The positioning of the support fins 72 is best illustrated
in connection with FIG. 14. In a preferred embodiment, each
friction plate includes two such structures, one providing
additional support to each of the lower plate portions 84 separated
by access opening 64 (see FIG. 2). In a preferred embodiment, the
support fins 72 extend in substantially transverse orientation to
both the web 24 and the friction plates 26. In operation, these
support fins 72 provide additional support to the friction plates
26 against forces applied to the external surfaces 40 thereof.
[0067] While the term "plate" is used, it will be recognized by
those of skill in the art that the overall shape of the plates is
not critical so long as each friction plate 26 includes an outer
surface 40 for engaging an inner surface 46 of a hollow post along
a length or a width thereof. Further, the number of friction plates
26 may vary, however, there should be at least two opposing
friction plates, as shown, for example, in the embodiment of FIG.
5. Preferably, four friction plates are provided as depicted in
FIGS. 2-4 and 6.
[0068] Referring to FIG. 6, there is shown another embodiment of a
fixture 10, wherein the friction plates 26 are in the form of a
solid rectangular plate. As shown, these plates combine to form a
hollow cavity 60 underlying web 24. As in the preferred embodiment,
depicted in FIG. 2, the fitting 22 may extend below the web 24 into
this hollow cavity 60. In several embodiments of the fixture 10 of
the invention, fasteners 32 including holes 34 are provided in this
portion of the fitting within the hollow cavity 60. To allow for
access to these fasteners, preferably there is provided an access
opening 64 in one or more of the friction plates 26 to allow for
access to the fastener. In the preferred embodiment (FIG. 2) there
are access openings 64 provided in each of the four friction plates
26.
[0069] The preferred embodiment of the mounting fixture of the
invention is injection molded from vinyl or other suitable
plastics.
[0070] When mounting a post to an earth foundation, an elongated
support 14, such as a pipe, can be placed within an excavated hole,
and can then be fixed in place by the use of concrete. The vertical
alignment of the pipe can be readily adjusted by simply shifting
the position of the pipe within the concrete before it sets.
However, when using a post in connection with a base structure
other than an earth foundation, for example a wood deck, a mount is
typically provided, and it is not as simple to adjust the vertical
alignment of the post. Typically, shims are placed under a portion
of the mount to adjust the vertical alignment, however, this has
many disadvantages.
[0071] Referring to FIGS. 7-9, there is shown an adjustable mount
assembly 100 which generally includes an elongated support
structure 14, preferably a pipe, mounting bracket 102, and base
104. Base 104 includes a plurality of threaded members 106 which
extend upwardly therefrom. Each threaded member 106 is rotatably
engaged with an adjustment member, preferably a nut, 112.
Preferably, the threaded members 106 are bolts having a flattened
head 120 (FIG. 9) which sits flush with the base 104 when
positioned on an underlying support. Alternatively, the threaded
members may be welded to the base.
[0072] Mounting bracket 102 includes a plurality of holes 118 which
are adapted to receive threaded members 106 when the mounting
bracket 102 is positioned over base 104. Elongated support
structure 14 may be attached to the base by any number of methods,
preferably by welding. Optionally, angle supports 114, welded at an
angle between the elongated support 14 and mounting bracket 102,
can be provided for additional strength.
[0073] When installing the mounting assembly 100 of the present
invention, base 104 is secured to a base structure 18, such as a
cement floor or wood deck. In the preferred embodiment, bolts,
screws, nails or other fastening means are employed to secure the
base 104 through holes 110. Mounting bracket 102, with attached
elongated support 14, is then positioned over the base and brought
to rest upon the adjustment members 112. Rotating any one of the
adjustment members 112 will change the vertical orientation of the
elongated support 14.
[0074] Once the elongated support 14 has been properly aligned, a
locking nut 116 (FIG. 8) is engaged with threaded member 106,
securing the mounting bracket 102 in place. To prevent the bolts
from loosening over time, stops (not shown) may be employed. The
stops generally consist of a piece of tubular plastic which may be
cut to a desired length and fitted around the exposed portion of
the threaded member 106 between threaded member 106 and base
104.
[0075] Once the elongated support 14 has been mounted, either by
the mounting assembly 100 of the present invention, or otherwise,
one or more fixtures 10 may be fitted over the elongated support 14
and placed in the desired position. Using fasteners 32, the
fixtures 10 are then secured to the elongated support 14. Hollow
post 12 can then be placed over the elongated support 14 and
fixtures 10.
[0076] Depending on the application of the post now installed,
various hardware may be attached to the post via conventional
means. Typically this is by the use of screws. In the case of a
post for a fence assembly, this hardware may consist of brackets
for horizontal fence members, or may includes hinges or other
hardware for a gate. While vinyl posts have many advantages, one
disadvantage is that the thickness of the walls is often
insufficient for proper mounting of such hardware using
conventional screws. However, if the fixtures of the present
invention are positioned properly, screws can be driven through
both the walls of the post and the friction plates 26 of the
fixture 10, providing the desired additional support.
[0077] Although the invention herein has been described with
reference to particular embodiments, it is to be understood that
these embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles and
applications of the present invention. It is therefore to be
understood that numerous modifications may be made to the
illustrative embodiments and that other arrangements may be devised
without departing from the spirit and scope of the present
invention as defined by the appended claims.
* * * * *