U.S. patent application number 11/122405 was filed with the patent office on 2006-11-09 for landscape timber connector.
Invention is credited to R. Lynn Williams.
Application Number | 20060248816 11/122405 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37392831 |
Filed Date | 2006-11-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060248816 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Williams; R. Lynn |
November 9, 2006 |
Landscape timber connector
Abstract
A landscape connector is adapted for coupling respective
proximal ends of adjacent landscape timbers. The landscape
connector includes spaced-apart opposing top and bottom walls and
opposing side walls. The top and bottom walls define respective
flat outside surfaces of the landscape connector. The side walls
are formed with the top and bottom walls, and define respective
outwardly bowed inside surfaces of the landscape connector. The
top, bottom, and side walls cooperate to form a stable housing
having first and second open ends adapted for receiving respective
proximal ends of the adjacent landscape timbers.
Inventors: |
Williams; R. Lynn;
(Pageland, SC) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Schwartz Law Firm, P.C.;SouthPark Towers
Suite 530
6100 Fairview Road
Charlotte
NC
28210
US
|
Family ID: |
37392831 |
Appl. No.: |
11/122405 |
Filed: |
May 5, 2005 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
52/169.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E04B 2001/266 20130101;
E04H 4/00 20130101; E04B 2/702 20130101; A01G 9/28 20180201 |
Class at
Publication: |
052/169.1 |
International
Class: |
E04B 1/00 20060101
E04B001/00 |
Claims
1. A landscape connector adapted for coupling respective proximal
ends of adjacent landscape timbers, said landscape connector
comprising: spaced-apart opposing top and bottom walls defining
respective flat outside surfaces of said landscape connector;
spaced-apart opposing side walls formed with said top and bottom
walls, and defining respective outwardly bowed inside surfaces of
said landscape connector; said top, bottom, and side walls
cooperating to form a stable housing having first and second open
ends adapted for receiving respective proximal ends of the adjacent
landscape timbers.
2. A landscape connector according to claim 1, wherein said housing
defines a timber-connection angle between the first open end and
the second open end.
3. A landscape connector according to claim 2, wherein said
timber-connection angle is 120 degrees.
4. A landscape connector according to claim 2, wherein said
timber-connection angle is 90 degrees.
5. A landscape connector according to claim 1, wherein the first
and second open ends of said housing are located in substantial
linear alignment.
6. A landscape connector according to claim 1, and comprising a
first intermediate wall formed between and parallel to said top and
bottom walls of said housing, such that each of said first and
second open ends is adapted for receiving respective proximal ends
of two stacked timbers.
7. A landscape connector according to claim 6, wherein said housing
defines a timber-connection angle between the first open end and
the second open end.
8. A landscape connector according to claim 7, wherein said
timber-connection angle is approximately 120 degrees.
9. A landscape connector according to claim 7, wherein said
timber-connection angle is approximately 90 degrees.
10. A landscape connector according to claim 6, wherein the first
and second open ends of said housing are located in substantial
linear alignment.
11. A landscape connector according to claim 6, and comprising a
second intermediate wall formed parallel to said first intermediate
wall and between said top and bottom walls of said housing, such
that each of said first and second open ends is adapted for
receiving respective proximal ends of three stacked timbers.
12. A landscape connector according to claim 11, wherein said
housing defines a timber-connection angle between the first open
end and the second open end.
13. A landscape connector according to claim 12, wherein said
timber-connection angle is approximately 120 degrees.
14. A landscape connector according to claim 12, wherein said
timber-connection angle is approximately 90 degrees.
15. A landscape connector according to claim 11, wherein the first
and second open ends of said housing are located in substantial
linear alignment.
16. A landscape connector according to claim 1, and comprising
means for mechanically attaching said housing to respective
proximal ends of the adjacent landscape timbers.
17. A landscape connector according to claim 16, wherein said means
for mechanically attaching comprises a fastener selected from a
group consisting of nails, screws, bolts, rivets, and staples.
18. A landscape connector according to claim 17, wherein at least
one of said top, bottom, and side walls of said housing defines at
least one fastener opening adapted for receiving said mechanical
fastener.
19. A method for coupling respective proximal ends of adjacent
landscape timbers, said method comprising the steps of: inserting a
proximal end of a first landscape timber into an open end of a
multi-wall landscape connector; inserting a proximal end of an
adjacent landscape timber into a second open end of the landscape
connector.
20. A method according to claim 19, and comprising mechanically
attaching the landscape connector to respective proximal ends of
the adjacent landscape timbers.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to a landscape connector
applicable for coupling respective proximal ends of adjacent
landscape timbers.
[0002] Landscape timbers are a popular and common "hardscape" in
many residential properties, adding a woodsy and practical accent
to the yard, garden, or playground. Such timbers are relatively
lightweight and have two opposing flat sides allowing them to be
easily stacked. While most timbers are composed of new wood, others
are manufactured of recycled plastics. In either case, the timbers
are relatively uniform and smooth making them excellent for stair
steps and retaining walls. Other popular applications include
flower-bed borders, walkway, patio, and driveway curbs, garden
beds, pond enclosures, sandboxes, and decorative walls. Landscape
timbers are available in a full range of sizes--from 4''.times.4'
to 12''.times.12'.
[0003] When stacking timbers, particularly above 2-3 courses, in
order to stabilize the landscape structure, a number of 10''
galvanized spikes are typically hammered through overlapping ends
using a sledge hammer. This process is both labor intensive and
time consuming, and in many cases damages the timber or detracts
from the overall aesthetic appearance of the landscape structure.
Any protrusion of the spikes above or beyond the timber may also
present a substantial safety hazzard. For single course structures,
the timbers are generally arranged end-to-end around a designated
perimeter. In playgrounds and other high traffic areas, the timbers
are often inadvertently kicked out of place, creating a rather
disheveled appearance in the landscaping.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
[0004] Therefore, it is an object of the invention to provide a
landscape connector which safely and securely interconnects
adjacent timbers.
[0005] It is another object of the invention to provide a landscape
connector which is relatively inexpensive to manufacture.
[0006] It is another object of the invention to provide a landscape
connector which is applicable for effectively interconnecting
multiple stacked timbers in adjacent sets of timbers.
[0007] It is another object of the invention to provide a landscape
connector which interconnects adjacent timbers without the use of
large spikes.
[0008] It is another object of the invention to provide a landscape
connector which is relatively easy to install.
[0009] It is another object of the invention to provide a landscape
connector which is durable and essentially maintenance free.
[0010] It is another object of the invention to provide a landscape
connector which may be manufactured in a variety of colors.
[0011] It is another object of the invention to provide a timber
staple applicable for securing a single or first course of
landscape timbers to the ground.
[0012] It is another object of the invention to provide a method of
interconnecting respective proximal ends of adjacent landscape
timbers.
[0013] These and other objects of the present invention are
achieved in the preferred embodiments disclosed below by providing
a landscape connector adapted for coupling respective proximal ends
of adjacent landscape timbers. The landscape connector includes
spaced-apart opposing top and bottom walls and opposing side walls.
The top and bottom walls define respective flat outside surfaces of
the landscape connector. The side walls are formed with the top and
bottom walls, and define respective outwardly bowed inside surfaces
of the landscape connector. The top, bottom, and side walls
cooperate to form a stable housing having first and second open
ends adapted for receiving respective proximal ends of the adjacent
landscape timbers.
[0014] The term "timber" is used broadly herein to describe any cut
wood or other material suitable for use in a landscape
structure.
[0015] According to another preferred embodiment of the invention,
the housing defines a timber-connection angle between the first
open end and the second open end.
[0016] According to another preferred embodiment of the invention,
the timber-connection angle is approximately 120 degrees.
[0017] According to another preferred embodiment of the invention,
the timber-connection angle is approximately 90 degrees.
[0018] According to another preferred embodiment of the invention,
the first and second open ends of the housing are located in
substantial linear alignment.
[0019] According to another preferred embodiment of the invention,
a first intermediate wall is formed between and parallel to the top
and bottom walls of the housing. Each of the first and second open
ends is thus adapted for receiving respective proximal ends of two
stacked timbers.
[0020] According to another preferred embodiment of the invention,
a second intermediate wall is formed parallel to the first
intermediate wall and between the top and bottom walls of the
housing. Each of the first and second open ends is thus adapted for
receiving respective proximal ends of three stacked timbers.
[0021] According to another preferred embodiment of the invention,
means are provided for mechanically attaching the housing to
respective proximal ends of the adjacent landscape timbers.
[0022] According to another preferred embodiment of the invention,
the means for mechanically attaching includes a fastener selected
from a group consisting of nails, screws, bolts, rivets, and
staples. Other means for attaching may include a narrow elastic or
nylon belt tightly wrapped around an outside of the housing, an
adhesive, or simple friction fit.
[0023] According to another preferred embodiment of the invention,
at least one of the top, bottom, and side walls of the housing
defines at least one fastener opening adapted for receiving the
mechanical fastener.
[0024] In another embodiment, the invention is a method for
coupling respective proximal ends of adjacent landscape timbers.
The method includes the steps of inserting a proximal end of a
first landscape timber into an open end of a multi-wall landscape
connector. A proximal end of an adjacent landscape timber is then
inserted into a second open end of the landscape connector.
[0025] According to another preferred embodiment of the invention,
the method further includes mechanically attaching the landscape
connector to respective proximal ends of the adjacent landscape
timbers.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0026] Some of the objects of the invention have been set forth
above. Other objects and advantages of the invention will appear as
the description proceeds when taken in conjunction with the
following drawings, in which:
[0027] FIG. 1 is an environmental view of a landscape connector
according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention;
[0028] FIG. 2 is an exploded view showing proximal ends of adjacent
landscape timbers removed from the connector, the mechanical
fasteners pulled away from respective fastener holes formed with
the connector, and one timber staple pulled away from the
timber;
[0029] FIG. 3 is a view of the timber stable applicable for
anchoring the landscape timber to the ground;
[0030] FIG. 4 is a further perspective view of the landscape
connector shown in FIGS. 1 and 2;
[0031] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a landscape connector
according to a second preferred embodiment of the invention;
[0032] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a landscape connector
according to a third preferred embodiment of the invention;
[0033] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a landscape connector
according to a fourth preferred embodiment of the invention;
[0034] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a landscape connector
according to a fifth preferred embodiment of the invention;
[0035] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a landscape connector
according to a sixth preferred embodiment of the invention;
[0036] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a landscape connector
according to an seventh preferred embodiment of the invention;
[0037] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a landscape connector
according to a eighth preferred embodiment of the invention;
and
[0038] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a landscape connector
according to a ninth preferred embodiment of the invention.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT AND BEST MODE
[0039] Referring now specifically to the drawings, an
integrally-molded landscape connector according to the present
invention is illustrated in FIG. 1, and shown generally at
reference numeral 10. The connector 10 is applicable for
mechanically coupling respective proximal ends of adjacent
landscape timbers 11 and 12. Such timbers are commonly used in
decorative landscape walls, and to frame out sandboxes,
playgrounds, sidewalks, planting beds, and the like. Mechanical
fasteners 14, such as nails, screws, and bolts, fixedly attach the
landscape connector 10 to the timbers 11, 12.
[0040] Preferably, the timbers 11, 12 are anchored to the ground
using one or more rust-resistant, metal wire timber staples 15. As
best shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the timber staple 15 comprises an
inverted, generally U-shaped wire with a timber-engaging body
portion 16 and spaced-apart free ends 17 and 18 adapted for being
driven into the ground. The body portion 16 of the staple 15 jogs
inwardly at points 19 and 20 at the junction of each free end 17,
18, such that the staple 15 substantially encircles the timber 11,
12 and is relatively inconspicuous when properly installed.
[0041] Referring to FIG. 4, the landscape connector 10 comprises
integrally-formed top, bottom, and side walls 21, 22, 23, and 24
which cooperate to form a rigid and stable open-ended housing 30.
The top and bottom walls 21, 22 form respective flat outside
surfaces of the connector 10, whereas the side walls 23, 24 are
bowed slightly outwardly to accommodate the slightly curved
opposing sides of the timber (See FIGS. 1 and 2). Preferably, the
top wall 21 has fastener holes 31 and 32 adjacent each open end 33,
34 of the housing 30 for receiving the mechanical fasteners into
the timbers. In this embodiment, the housing 27 defines a
timber-connection angle .alpha. of approximately 90 degrees between
the first open end 33 and the second open end 34.
[0042] FIG. 5 illustrates a second embodiment of a landscape
connector 40 applicable for coupling adjacent pairs of stacked
timbers (not shown). The connector 40 comprises integrally-formed
top and bottom walls 41, 42, an intermediate wall 43, and side
walls 44 and 45 cooperating to form a rigid and stable open-ended
housing 50. The top, bottom, and intermediate walls 41-43 reside in
parallel planes and are substantially coextensive. As previously
described, the top and bottom walls 41, 42 form respective flat
outside surfaces of the connector 40. The side walls 44 and 45 are
bowed slightly outwardly to accommodate the slightly curved
opposing sides of the timber, but pinch inwardly at the
intermediate wall 43 to form separate and distinct timber-receiving
openings 51A-51B and 52A-52B. Preferably, at least four fastener
holes 53A-53D and 54A-54D are formed in the side walls 44, 45
adjacent each open end 51, 52 of the housing 50 for receiving
respective mechanical fasteners into the timbers. The
timber-connection angle a of this embodiment is likewise
approximately 90 degrees between the first open end 51 and the
second open end 52.
[0043] A third embodiment of a landscape connector 60 applicable
for coupling adjacent sets of three stacked timbers is shown in
FIG. 6. The connector 60 comprises integrally-formed top and bottom
walls 61, 62, intermediate walls 63, 64, and side walls 65, 66. The
walls 61-66 cooperate to form a rigid and stable open-ended housing
70. The top and bottom walls 61, 62 and intermediate walls 63, 64
reside in parallel planes and are substantially coextensive. As
previously described, the top and bottom walls 61, 62 form
respective flat outside surfaces of the connector 60. The side
walls 65, 66 are bowed slightly outwardly to accommodate the
slightly curved opposing sides of the timber, but pinch inwardly at
the intermediate walls 63, 64 to form separate and distinct
timber-receiving openings 71A-71C and 72A-72C. Preferably, at least
six fastener holes 73A-73F and 74A-74F are formed in the side walls
65, 66 adjacent each open end 71, 72 of the housing 70 for
receiving respective mechanical fasteners into the timbers. The
timber-connection angle a of this embodiment is approximately 90
degrees between the first open end 71 and the second open end
72.
[0044] FIG. 7 illustrates a fourth embodiment of a landscape
connector 80 applicable for coupling proximal ends of adjacent
timbers (not shown). The connector 80 comprises integrally-formed
top, bottom, and side walls 81, 82, 83, and 84 cooperating to form
a rigid and stable open-ended housing 90. The top and bottom walls
81, 82 reside in parallel planes and are substantially coextensive.
As previously described, the top and bottom walls 81, 82 form
respective flat outside surfaces of the connector 80, whereas the
side walls 83, 84 are bowed slightly outwardly to accommodate the
slightly curved opposing sides of the timber. Preferably,
respective fastener holes 91 and 92 are formed in the top wall 81
adjacent each open end 93, 94 of the housing 90 for receiving
respective mechanical fasteners into the timbers. The
timber-connection angle a of this embodiment is approximately 120
degrees between the first open end 93 and the second open end
94.
[0045] FIG. 8 illustrates a fifth embodiment of a landscape
connector 100 applicable for coupling adjacent pairs of stacked
timbers (not shown). The connector 100 comprises integrally-formed
top and bottom walls 101, 102, an intermediate wall 103, and side
walls 104, 105 cooperating to form a rigid and stable open-ended
housing 110. The top, bottom, and intermediate walls 101 -103
reside in parallel planes and are substantially coextensive. As
previously described, the top and bottom walls 101, 102 form
respective flat outside surfaces of the connector 100. The side
walls 104, 105 are bowed slightly outwardly to accommodate the
slightly curved opposing sides of the timber, but pinch inwardly at
the intermediate wall 103 to form separate and distinct
timber-receiving openings 111A, 111B and 112A, 112B. Preferably, at
least four fastener holes 113A-113D and 114A-114D (114C, 114D not
shown) are formed in the side walls 104, 105 adjacent each open end
111, 112 of the housing 110 for receiving respective mechanical
fasteners into the timbers. The timber-connection angle a of this
embodiment is likewise approximately 120 degrees between the first
open end 111 and the second open end 112.
[0046] A sixth embodiment of a landscape connector 120 applicable
for coupling adjacent sets of three stacked timbers is shown in
FIG. 9. The connector 120 comprises integrally-formed top and
bottom walls 121, 122, intermediate walls 123, 124, and side walls
125, 126. The walls 121-126 cooperate to form a rigid and stable
open-ended housing 130. The top and bottom walls 121, 122 and
intermediate walls 123, 124 reside in parallel planes and are
substantially coextensive. As previously described, the top and
bottom walls 121, 122 form respective flat outside surfaces of the
connector 120. The side walls 125, 126 are bowed slightly outwardly
to accommodate the slightly curved opposing sides of the timber,
but pinch inwardly at the intermediate walls 123, 124 to form
separate and distinct timber-receiving openings 131A-131C and
132A-132C. Preferably, at least six fastener holes 133A-133F and
134A-134F (134D-134F not shown) are formed in the side walls 125,
126 adjacent each open end 131, 132 of the housing 130 for
receiving respective mechanical fasteners into the timbers. The
timber-connection angle .alpha. of this embodiment is approximately
120 degrees between the first open end 131 and the second open end
132.
[0047] FIG. 10 illustrates a seventh embodiment of a landscape
connector 140 applicable for coupling proximal ends of adjacent
timbers (not shown). The connector 140 comprises integrally-formed
top, bottom, and side walls 141, 142, 143, and 144 cooperating to
form a rigid and stable open-ended housing 150. The top and bottom
walls 141, 142 reside in parallel planes and are substantially
coextensive. As previously described, the top and bottom walls 141,
142 form respective flat outside surfaces of the connector 140,
whereas the side walls 143, 144 are bowed slightly outwardly to
accommodate the slightly curved opposing sides of the timber.
Preferably, respective fastener holes 151 and 152 are formed in the
top wall 141 adjacent each open end 153, 154 of the housing 150 for
receiving respective mechanical fasteners into the timbers. In this
embodiment, the first and second open ends 153, 154 of the housing
150 are located in substantial linear alignment.
[0048] FIG. 11 illustrates an eighth embodiment of a landscape
connector 160 applicable for coupling adjacent pairs of stacked
timbers (not shown). The connector 160 comprises integrally-formed
top and bottom walls 161, 162, an intermediate wall 163, and side
walls 164, 165 cooperating to form a rigid and stable open-ended
housing 170. The top, bottom, and intermediate walls 161-163 reside
in parallel planes and are substantially coextensive. As previously
described, the top and bottom walls 161, 162 form respective flat
outside surfaces of the connector 160. The side walls 164, 165 are
bowed slightly outwardly to accommodate the slightly curved
opposing sides of the timber, but pinch inwardly at the
intermediate wall 163 to form separate and distinct
timber-receiving openings 171A, 171B and 172A, 172B. Preferably, at
least four fastener holes 173A-173D (173C, 173D not shown) and
174A-174D are formed in the side walls 164, 165 adjacent each open
end 171, 172 of the housing 170 for receiving respective mechanical
fasteners into the timbers. The first and second open ends 171, 172
of the housing 170 are located in substantial linear alignment.
[0049] A ninth embodiment of a landscape connector 180 applicable
for coupling adjacent sets of three stacked timbers is shown in
FIG. 12. The connector 180 comprises integrally-formed top and
bottom walls 181, 182, intermediate walls 183, 184, and side walls
185, 186. The walls 181-186 cooperate to form a rigid and stable
open-ended housing 190. The top and bottom walls 181, 182 and
intermediate walls 183, 184 reside in parallel planes and are
substantially coextensive. As previously described, the top and
bottom walls 181, 182 form respective flat outside surfaces of the
connector 180. The side walls 185, 186 are bowed slightly outwardly
to accommodate the slightly curved opposing sides of the timber,
but pinch inwardly at the intermediate walls 183, 184 to form
separate and distinct timber-receiving openings 191A-191C and
192A-192C. Preferably, at least six fastener holes 193A-193F
(193D-193F not shown) and 194A-194F are formed in the side walls
185, 186 adjacent each open end 191, 192 of the housing 190 for
receiving respective mechanical fasteners into the timbers. The
first and second open ends 191, 192 of the housing 190 are located
in substantial linear alignment.
[0050] In a further embodiment (not shown), the landscape connector
may have substantially straight side walls, and may or may not
include pre-formed fastener openings.
[0051] Multiple embodiments of a landscape timber connector are
described above. Various details of the invention may be changed
without departing from its scope. Furthermore, the foregoing
description of the preferred embodiment of the invention and best
mode for practicing the invention are provided for the purpose of
illustration only and not for the purpose of limitation--the
invention being defined by the claims.
* * * * *