U.S. patent application number 14/639172 was filed with the patent office on 2015-07-23 for railing system.
The applicant listed for this patent is Dolle A/S. Invention is credited to Viggo Ostervig.
Application Number | 20150204104 14/639172 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 53544333 |
Filed Date | 2015-07-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150204104 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Ostervig; Viggo |
July 23, 2015 |
RAILING SYSTEM
Abstract
A railing system for mounting to railings of a fence includes a
first strip and a second strip. The first and second strips each
have a generally planar surface. The first and second strips can be
mounted to respective fence railings. The first and second strips
each have a plurality of openings extending for receiving a
plurality of anchors. Each anchor has a flared portion to prevent
passage of the flared portion through the respective opening and
anchor the anchor against one of the first and second strips. A
plurality of elongated barriers each of a fixed length extends from
the first strip to the second strip when mounted to respective
fence railings. Each barrier is connectable to a pair of anchors,
and when connected to respective anchors, extends linearly from the
first strip to the second strip.
Inventors: |
Ostervig; Viggo; (Frostrup,
DK) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Dolle A/S |
Frostrup |
|
DK |
|
|
Family ID: |
53544333 |
Appl. No.: |
14/639172 |
Filed: |
March 5, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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14458501 |
Aug 13, 2014 |
|
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14639172 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
256/67 ;
256/65.15 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E04F 2011/1823 20130101;
E04F 11/1817 20130101; E04F 2011/1827 20130101; E04F 11/1859
20130101 |
International
Class: |
E04H 17/14 20060101
E04H017/14; E04F 11/18 20060101 E04F011/18 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jan 22, 2014 |
DK |
201400040 |
Claims
1. A railing system for mounting to railings of a fence,
comprising: a first strip and a second strip, the first and second
strips each having a first surface and a generally planar second
surface opposite the first surface, the first and second strips
adapted to be mounted to respective fence railings, each second
surface adapted to face and engage a railing of a fence, the first
and second strips each defining a length and a width and having a
thickness substantially less than the length or the width, the
thickness of the first and second strips being generally uniform
along the length, the first and second strips each having a
plurality of openings extending therethrough; a plurality of
anchors, each anchor having a leading edge, a shank and a flared
portion, the leading edge and the shank having a cross-sectional
area less than a cross-sectional area of the respective opening to
permit the leading edge and the shank to extend, in a direction
from the second surface to the first surface, through a respective
opening of one of the first and second strip, the flared portion
having a cross-sectional area greater than the cross-sectional area
of the respective opening to prevent passage of the flared portion
through the respective opening and anchor the anchor against the
second surface of the one of the first and second strips; and a
plurality of elongated barriers, each barrier having a first end
and a second end, the first end being connectable to one of the
anchors when anchored to the first strip and the second end being
connectable to one of the anchors when anchored to the second
strip, each barrier, when connected to respective anchors is held
in tension by a spring force and prevented sagging from the first
and second strips.
2. The railing system of claim 1, wherein the shank of each anchor
extends in a direction non-perpendicular with respect to the second
surface of the first or second strip through which the anchor
extends.
3. The railing system of claim 2, wherein the shank is bendable
with respect to the flared portion of each anchor.
4. The railing system of claim 1, wherein the first and second ends
of each barrier having a stopper.
5. The railing system of claim 4, wherein the stopper is of
cylindrical shape.
6. The railing system of claim 5, wherein the stopper is welded to
or integrally formed with the barrier.
7. The railing system of claim 5, wherein the shank of each anchor
has an internally threaded portion for fastening the first barrier
to the first and second strips.
8. The railing system of claim 7, wherein the stopper comprises an
externally threaded portion, the externally threaded portion of the
stopper engaging with the internally threaded portion of the
anchor.
9. The railing system of claim 1, wherein the barrier is one of a
cable and a rod.
10. The railing system of claim 9, wherein the barrier is a cable
pre-cut to a predetermined length.
11. The railing system of claim 1, wherein the flared portion of
the anchor is beveled.
12. A railing system for mounting to railings of a fence,
comprising: a first strip and a second strip, the first and second
strips each having a first surface and a generally planar second
surface opposite the first surface, the first and second strips
adapted to be mounted to respective fence railings, each second
surface adapted to face and engage a railing of a fence, the first
and second strips each defining a length and a width and having a
thickness substantially less than the length or the width, the
thickness of the first and second strips being generally uniform
along the length, the first and second strips each having a
plurality of openings extending therethrough; a plurality of
anchors, each anchor having a leading edge, a shank and a flared
portion, the leading edge and the shank having a cross-sectional
area less than a cross-sectional area of the respective opening to
permit the leading edge and the shank to extend, in a direction
from the second surface to the first surface, through a respective
opening of one of the first and second strip, the flared portion
having a cross-sectional area greater than the cross-sectional area
of the respective opening to prevent passage of the flared portion
through the respective opening and anchor the anchor against the
second surface of the one of the first and second strips; a
plurality of sleeves, each sleeve being connectable with the shank
of a respective anchor, each sleeve having a hollow portion; and a
plurality of elongated barriers, each barrier having a first end
and a second end, the first and second ends being receivable by the
hollow portion of a respective sleeve, the first end being
connectable to the first strip and the second end being connectable
to the second strip when received by the hollow portion of a
respective sleeve, each barrier, comprising at least one
compression spring positionable between the first end and a first
sleeve of the plurality of sleeves, the compression spring
configured to generate a spring force such that each barrier when
connected to respective strips, is held in tension by the spring
force and prevented sagging from the first and second strips.
13. The railing system of claim 12, wherein each anchor comprises
an externally threaded portion for fastening the first barrier to
the first and second strips.
14. The railing system of claim 13, wherein each sleeve comprises
an internally threaded portion for engaging with the externally
threaded portion of each anchor.
15. The railing system of claim 12, wherein the first and second
ends each comprise a spherical stopper coupled or integrally formed
with the first and second ends, the spherical stopper being
received by a respective hollow portion of each sleeve.
16. The railing system of claim 15, wherein each compression spring
is sized such that the compression spring does not slide past the
spherical stopper and a first side of each sleeve.
17. The railing system of claim 12, wherein the spring force
generated by each compression spring is generally oriented along an
axis of each barrier.
18. The railing system of claim 12, wherein the spring force
generated by each compression spring is directed generally toward
the first and second strip such that the barrier is held in
tension, the barrier extending substantially linearly between the
first and second strips when held in tension.
19. The railing system of claim 12, wherein each barrier of the
plurality of barriers are in a generally vertical orientation.
20. The railing system of claim 12, wherein the first and second
strips are in a generally horizontal orientation.
21. The railing system of claim 12, wherein the first and second
strips are in a generally non-horizontal orientation.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of co-pending
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/458,501 filed on Aug. 13, 2014,
which claims priority to Danish patent application, PA 201400040,
filed on Jan. 22, 2014, each assigned to the assignee of this
instant application, the disclosure of each which is hereby
incorporated by reference in its entirety.
FIELD
[0002] This disclosure generally relates to systems and method for
forming protective barriers with fences. More particularly this
disclosure relates to a railing system mounted to railings of a
fence.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Homes, offices, buildings, and public or recreational areas
(e.g., parks, bridges and the like) use fencing to form protective
barriers for stairways, decks, balconies and the like. Such systems
are useful for preventing children, pets and adults from
unintentionally stepping into dangerous areas (e.g., a balcony or a
bridge). Typically, such systems involve balusters (e.g., made of
wood, metal, or plastic) mounted to railings. Several types of
railing systems are known. In one example, the railing system has
horizontal barriers extending between generally vertically-oriented
railings. In such cases, children or pets may accidentally step on
the horizontal barriers and endanger themselves. Vertical barriers
on the other hand, prevent users from climbing on to the railing
system. In some examples, at least a portion of the railing system
can be partially transparent, so that the barriers provide a view
past the fence. One type of vertical railing systems include metal
balusters that are mounted separately to railings by bolting or
welding. Other railings systems can include balusters made of wood
or polymer materials that are mounted between wood or polymer
moldings. For instance, the railing system may include pickets
fastened (e.g., threaded, friction or press-fitted) in appropriate
holes in the railings.
[0004] Conventional railing systems are bulky and have a
labor-intensive assembly procedure. Additionally, if railings or
balusters suffer damage (e.g., due to user negligence or accidents)
removing and replacing damaged balusters can be time consuming. As
conventional balusters are often fitted within holes in the
railings, removing a single baluster can damage the railings and/or
adjacent balusters. Thick balusters and pickets also block any
views past them and lead to a cluttered and/or bulky look.
SUMMARY
[0005] Certain embodiments include a railing system for mounting to
railings of a fence. The railing system can include a first strip
and a second strip, each having a first surface and a generally
planar second surface opposite the first surface. The first and
second strips can be mounted to respective fence railings. Each
second surface can face and engage a railing of a fence. The first
and second strips can each define a length and a width and can have
a thickness substantially less than the length or the width. The
thickness of the first and second strips can be generally uniform
along the length. The first and second strips can each have a
plurality of openings extending therethrough.
[0006] In one embodiment, the railing system can include a
plurality of anchors. Each anchor can have a leading edge, a shank
and a flared portion. The leading edge and the shank can have a
cross-sectional area less than a cross-sectional area of the
respective opening to permit the leading edge and the shank to
extend, in a direction from the second surface to the first
surface, through a respective opening of one of the first or second
strips. The flared portion can have a cross-sectional area greater
than the cross-sectional area of the respective opening to prevent
passage of the flared portion through the respective opening and
anchor the anchor against the second surface of the one of the
first and second strips.
[0007] In one embodiment, the railing system includes a plurality
of elongated barriers. Each barrier can have a fixed length to
extend from the first strip to the second strip when mounted to
respective fence railings. Each barrier can have a first end and a
second end. The first end can be connectable to one of the anchors
when anchored to the first strip and the second end can be
connectable to one of the anchors when anchored to the second
strip. Each barrier, when connected to respective anchors, can
extend linearly from the first strip to the second strip.
[0008] In one embodiment, the railing system can include a
plurality of sleeves. Each sleeve can be connectable with the shank
of a respective anchor. Each sleeve can have a hollow portion. In
such cases, the first and second ends of each barrier can be
receivable by the hollow portion of a respective sleeve. The first
end can be connectable to the first strip and the second end can be
connectable to the second strip when received by the hollow portion
of a respective sleeve. Each barrier, when connected to respective
strips, can extend linearly from the first strip to the second
strip.
[0009] Certain embodiments also include a method of mounting a
railing system to railings of a fence. The method can involve the
step of providing a railing system according to any of the
embodiments disclosed herein. The anchor can be positioned on the
first and second strips such that the leading edge and shank extend
in a direction from the second surface to the first surface and the
flared portion is prevented from passing through the respective
opening so that the flared portion anchors the anchor against the
second surface of the one of the first and second strips. The first
and second strips can then be mounted to respective railings of the
fence such that each second surface faces and engages a respective
railing of a fence. The flared portions of each anchor can be
captured between first or second strip and the respective railing
when the first and second strips have engaged with respective
railings. The shank of each anchor can be bent with respect to its
flared portion to a desired angle. The first and second ends of
each elongated barrier can then be to one of the anchors so that
each barrier extends linearly from the first strip to the second
strip.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0010] The following drawings are illustrative of particular
embodiments and therefore do not limit the scope of the invention.
The drawings are not necessarily to scale (unless so stated) and
are intended for use in conjunction with the explanations in the
following detailed description. Embodiments will hereinafter be
described in conjunction with the appended drawings, wherein like
numerals denote like elements.
[0011] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a railing system for a fence
according to an embodiment;
[0012] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of the railing system of
FIG. 1;
[0013] FIG. 3 is a close-up perspective view of a portion of the
railing system of FIG. 1;
[0014] FIG. 4A is a close-up perspective view of the portion shown
in FIG. 3, with the railings shown in a transparent view;
[0015] FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of the railing system
shown in FIG. 3 taken along the plane C-C;
[0016] FIG. 5A is a perspective view of a portion of the railing
system of FIG. 1 in a dismounted state;
[0017] FIG. 5B is a perspective view of another portion of the
railing system of FIG. 1 in a dismounted state;
[0018] FIG. 5C is a perspective view of the first or second strip
according to an embodiment;
[0019] FIG. 5D is a perspective view of an anchor according to an
embodiment;
[0020] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a railing system for a
stairway according to an embodiment;
[0021] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a portion of the railing
system of FIG. 6;
[0022] FIG. 8 is a front view of a portion of the railing system of
FIG. 6;
[0023] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a portion of the railing
system of FIG. 6;
[0024] FIG. 10 is a front view of a portion of the railing system
of FIG. 6 shown with a bendable anchor;
[0025] FIG. 11 is front perspective view of a portion of the
railing system of FIG. 6;
[0026] FIG. 12 is a front view of a portion of the railing system
of FIG. 6;
[0027] FIGS. 13A and 13B are front view a perspective view of a
barrier according to an embodiment;
[0028] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a portion of the railing
system of FIG. 6 showing the railing system in a mounted state;
and
[0029] FIGS. 15A and 15B show a front view and a perspective view
of a barrier according to another embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0030] The following detailed description is exemplary in nature
and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or
configuration of the invention in any way. Rather, the following
description provides some practical illustrations for implementing
exemplary embodiments. Examples of constructions, materials,
dimensions, and manufacturing processes are provided for selected
elements, and all other elements employ that which is known to
those of ordinary skill in the field. Those skilled in the art will
recognize that many of the noted examples have a variety of
suitable alternatives.
[0031] Embodiments include a railing system for mounting to
railings of a fence. The railing system can be mounted to existing
railings of a fence quickly and without requiring many tools. Such
systems provide a transparent fence allowing a user to be able see
past the fence, and at the same time form protective barriers in
the form of barriers that can easily be adjusted to ensure that
they are securely mounted after installation. Such embodiments
create aesthetically pleasing views suitable for use in many modern
homes, offices and other buildings.
[0032] FIGS. 1 and 2 are perspective views of a railing system 10
according to an embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the railing
system 10 can be mounted to existing railings 110, 120, 130, 140 of
a fence 100 for use in balconies, decks, stairways and the like.
Alternatively, the railing system 10 can function as a stand-alone
railing system 10 for use therein. As seen in the close-up
perspective views of FIGS. 3 and 4A-4B, the railing system 10
includes a first strip 20 mounted on the existing railing 110 of a
fence 100. Referring back to FIG. 2, a second strip 30 can be
mounted to the existing railing 120 of the fence 100 opposite to
the first strip 20. For instance, in one example, if the first
strip 20 is mounted on the bottom railing 110 of the fence 100, the
second strip 30 can be mounted on the top railing 120 of the fence
100. Alternatively, in other cases, the first and second strips 20,
30 can be mounted on the left and right side railings 130, 140 of
the fence 100. In some exemplary embodiments, the first and second
strips 20, 30 can be substantially similar in size and shape.
Alternatively, the first and second strips 20, 30 can be of
dissimilar sizes and shapes to allow them to be positioned on
dissimilarly shaped railings (e.g., in balconies, decks, or
inclined and/or spiral stairways). The first and second strips 20,
30 can be mounted flush (e.g., as shown in the view of FIGS. 11 and
12) against the railings 110, 120 to form a vertical, horizontal,
angled or otherwise asymmetrically-oriented (e.g., spiral stairway)
railing system 10.
[0033] FIGS. 5A-5C show various views of the first and second
strips 20, 30 mounted to existing railings 110, 120 of a fence 100.
As shown in FIGS. 5A-5C, the first and second strips 20, 30 each
have a first surface 32 and a second surface 34 opposite the first
surface 32. Each second surface 34 of the first and second strip 30
can engage (e.g., via fasteners 38, adhesives, etc.) a railing 110
or 120 of a fence 100. The first and second strips 20, 30 can be
positioned and oriented such that they substantially conform to the
orientation of the railings 110, 120 on which they are mounted. In
one example, the second surface 34 can be generally planar (e.g.,
without any protrusions, bumps, or other surface projections) to
facilitate mounting the first and/or second strips 20, 30 to a
planar railing. Alternatively, in other examples, the second
surface 34 can be curved or inclined to mount flush against a
curved or angled railing. In the illustrated embodiments best seen
in FIGS. 5A-5C, the first surface 32 faces away from the railing
110, 120 on which it is mounted, and the second surface 34 faces
toward and/or is in opposition to the railing 110, 120 on which the
first or second strip 30 is mounted. Additionally, as best shown in
FIGS. 3 and 4A, the first surface 32 can either have tracks to
capture other components (e.g., fasteners) to not protrude out of
the first surface 32. Alternatively, the first surface 32 can be
planar with uniform thickness (e.g., without any protrusions,
bumps, or other surface projections).
[0034] The first and second strips 20, 30 can each be made of
metals (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel, or other metals or
alloys). As perhaps best seen in FIG. 5C, the first and second
strips 20, 30 can each have a length "L", a width "W" and a
thickness "T". The thickness "T" of the first and second strips 20,
30 can be generally uniform along their length "L", as best seen in
FIG. 10). Returning to FIGS. 5A-5C, in some cases, the thickness
"T" can be uniform along the width "W". The thickness "T" of the
first and second strips 20, 30 can be substantially less than the
length "L" or the width "W", and the width "W" can be less than the
length "L", leading to a shallow and/or narrow profile of the first
and second strips 20, 30 when mounted to existing railings of width
and thickness greater than the width and thickness of the first
and/or second strips 20, 30 respectively. The profile of the first
and second strips 20, 30 facilitates the first and second strips
20, 30 from being substantially invisible when mounted on to
existing railings 110, 120 of a fence 100, thereby providing
aesthetically pleasing views suitable in modern homes and office
buildings. Such systems also ensure that a limited quantity of
materials is used in fabricating the first and second strips 20,
30, thereby lowering the cost of manufacturing the railing system
10.
[0035] In certain embodiments, the first and second strips 20, 30
can be of any desirable length "L" (e.g., between about one foot
and about ten feet, and typically about three feet). When mounting
to existing railings 110, 120 of a predetermined length, the first
and second strips 20, 30 can then be cut to the predetermined
length of the existing railing. The width "W" of the first and
second strips 20, 30 can generally be less than the width of the
existing railings 110, 120 on which the first and second strips 20,
30 are mounted. In one example, the width "W" of the first and
second strips 20, 30 can be on the order of a few inches. The first
and second strips 20, 30 can have any width (e.g., substantially
equal to, or greater than, or less than the width of the railings
110, 120). As mentioned elsewhere herein, the thickness "T" is
substantially less than the length "L" and the width "W" of the
first and second strips 20, 30. The thickness "T" can be between
about 1 millimeter and about 10 millimeters, and in some exemplary
embodiments, is about 2 millimeters. Other ranges of thickness are
also contemplated. In some cases, the railing system 10 can be
provided with several strips of various standard dimensions (e.g.,
several lengths, widths and/or thicknesses as a kit) to mount to
various types and geometries of railings 110, 120.
[0036] Referring back to FIGS. 4A-4B, the first and second strips
20, 30 each can have a plurality of openings 36 extending
therethrough. As perhaps best seen in FIGS. 5A and 5C, the openings
36 can be equally spaced although they may have a non-uniform
spacing. Each opening receives a fastener 38 (e.g., wood screws,
nuts and bolts, push-connect or similar fasteners) to engage the
first and second strips 20, 30 to the existing railings 110, 120 of
the fence 100. In the cross-sectional view of FIG. 4B, the fastener
38 is a wood-screw. In this example, a user can engage the first
and second strips 20, 30 to the existing railing of the fence by
positioning the first and second strips 20, 30 to the railings 110,
120, respectively, positioning the plurality of fasteners 38 in the
openings 36 of the first and second strips 20, 30, and then
fastening the first and second strips 20, 30 to the railings 110,
120 (e.g., by driving the fasteners 38, via the plurality of
openings 36, into the first and second railing via a power tool).
Alternatively, any other fastener (e.g., hook and loop) known in
the art can be used to engage the first and second strips 20, 30 to
existing railing 110, 120. Alternatively, the first and second
strips 20, 30 can be bonded (e.g., by welding, soldering, or using
adhesives) to existing railing 110, 120.
[0037] Prior to positioning and engaging the first and second
strips 20, 30 on the existing railings 110, 120, a plurality of
anchors 40 may be inserted to openings 36 in the first and the
second strip 30 to anchor 40 the first and second strips 20, 30
when engaged with the railings 110, 120. The anchors 40 may be
positioned in the openings 36 in any configuration. In the
embodiments illustrated in FIG. 5A-5B, each anchor 40 is placed in
an opening 36 interspersed between openings 36 that receive a
fastener 38. However, this may not be the case in other embodiments
where anchors 40 are positioned in adjacent openings 36. As seen in
FIG. 5D, each anchor 40 can have a leading edge 42, a shank 44 and
a flared portion 46. The leading edge 42 and the shank 44 can have
a cross-sectional area "A2" less than a cross-sectional area of the
respective opening (not shown) of the first or second strip 30 to
permit the leading edge 42 to be inserted into the opening. When
inserted, the leading edge 42 and the shank 44 extend in a
direction from the second surface 34 to the first surface 32,
through a respective opening. The flared portion 46 can have a
cross-sectional area "A1" greater than the cross-sectional area of
the respective opening (not shown) of the first or second strip 30
to prevent passage of the flared portion 46 through the respective
opening. The flared portion 46 anchors each anchor 40 against the
second surface 34 of the one of the first and second strips 20, 30.
In some embodiments, the flared portion 46 of the anchor 40 is
beveled or chamfered to prevent sharp edged anchors. Any number of
anchors 40 can be used, and in the illustrated embodiments shown in
FIGS. 5A-5C, the spacing between the openings 36 receiving each
anchor 40 is about one inch. While a uniformly spaced configuration
of openings 36 is shown in FIGS. 5A-5C, the anchors 40 may be
positioned in a staggered configuration e.g., in non-uniformly
spaced openings 36).
[0038] With continued reference to FIGS. 5C and 5D, the leading
edge 42 of each anchor 40 receives an elongated barrier 50. In some
examples, the barrier 50 can be a filling. The elongated barrier 50
can have a fixed length to extend from the first strip 20 to the
second strip 30 when mounted to respective fence railings 110, 120.
Each barrier 50 can have a first end 52 and a second end 54. In one
example, the first end 52 can be connectable to one of the anchors
40 extending from and/or anchored to the first strip 20 and the
second end 54 can be connectable to one of the anchors 40 extending
from and/or anchored to the second strip 30. Each barrier 50, when
connected to respective anchors 40, can extend linearly from the
first strip 20 to the second strip 30. While the embodiment
illustrated in FIGS. 1-4B show the barriers 50 oriented in a
generally vertical direction (e.g., as balusters), the barriers 50
can be oriented in any configuration. For example, the barriers 50
may be oriented horizontally, extending between the left side
railing 130 and the right side railing 140 seen in FIGS. 1 and 2.
Alternatively, the railings 110, 120 can be angled with respect to
a horizontal or a vertical plane (e.g., the stairway railings shown
in FIG. 6). In such cases, the barriers 50 can either be extending
vertically as shown in FIG. 6, or can be inclined with respect to
the horizontal or vertical plane, to form a protective fence for
stairways.
[0039] In the embodiments illustrated in FIG. 5C, the barriers 50
are cylindrical with a diameter substantially less than their
length. However, the barriers 50 can be of any shape (e.g., having
a square, hexagonal, octagonal, or irregular cross-section when
viewed in the length-wise direction). The barriers 50 can be of any
length allowing them to extend linearly in any orientation
(horizontal, vertical or angular orientation) between railings 110,
120. In some cases, the barriers 50 can have a length that equals
the spacing between adjacent railings between which the barriers 50
extend linearly, when the railing system 10 is assembled (e.g.,
when the barriers 50 are anchored to the first and second strips
20, 30 via the plurality of anchors 40). In many cases, fences for
balconies and stairways are of standard dimensions. For instance,
the top and bottom railings (best seen in FIGS. 1 and 2) can be
spaced apart by a distance of about 30 inches. In this example, the
barriers 50 can have a length of about 30 inches to extend linearly
and vertically between the top and bottom railings when assembled.
Alternatively, if the barriers 50 are to be oriented in a
horizontal configuration, they can have a length that equals the
spacing between the left and right side railings shown in FIGS. 1
and 2.
[0040] With continued reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, in some exemplary
embodiments, the barriers 50 can either be cables or rods. In
embodiments wherein the barriers 50 are cables, the barriers 50 can
be substantially flexible (e.g., with respect to the existing
railings). In embodiments wherein the barriers 50 are rods, the
barriers 50 are substantially rigid in comparison to the existing
railings and/or first and second strips 20, 30. In such
embodiments, the barriers 50 can be hollow or solid. The cable or
rod can be pre-cut to a predetermined length. In some cases, the
railing system 10 can be provided with several cables or rods of
various standard dimensions (e.g., several lengths and diameters
and/or thicknesses as a kit) and a user may cut (e.g., with a
wire-stripper, saws, or other cutting tools) the cable or rod to
the desired length. As mentioned elsewhere herein, many fences are
of standard dimensions, wherein the spacing between adjacent
railings 110, 120, 130 and 140 is known. In such cases, the
predetermined length of the pre-cut rod or cable can equal the
spacing between railings between which the barriers 50 can extend
linearly when assembled. Alternatively, the user can cut the rod or
the cable to any desired dimension. In some exemplary embodiments,
when the railing system 10 is assembled (e.g., when the barriers 50
are anchored to the first and second strips 20, 30 via the
plurality of anchors 40), the barriers 50 do not sag. For instance,
the barriers 50 can be held in tension between the first and second
strips 20, 30 by the plurality of anchors 40, such that the
barriers 50 are substantially linear when anchored to the first and
second strips 20, 30. Such barriers 50 can provide aesthetically
pleasing fences for stairways, decks, and balconies (e.g., by
allowing a view past the fence).
[0041] In some embodiments, the first and second ends 52, 54 of
each barrier 50 have a stopper 60 to be received by or engage with
an anchor. In some embodiments, the stopper 60 is integrally formed
with the barrier 50. Alternatively, each stopper 60 can be fastened
(e.g., threaded connection, with a fastener, or a complementary
connector), or connected via a friction or press fit with the first
and second ends 52, 54 of the barriers 50. Alternatively, each
stopper 60 can be welded or adhered to the first and second ends
52, 54 of the barriers 50. In the embodiments illustrated in FIG.
4B, the stopper 60 is of cylindrical shape. Alternatively, the
stopper 60 can be spherical (as illustrated in FIGS. 12-13B),
cubical, or other shapes. In an exemplary embodiment illustrated in
FIG. 4B, the stopper 60 can be sized such that it is received by an
anchor 40 of the plurality of anchors 40. In the illustrated
embodiment shown in FIG. 4B, at least a portion of the shank 44 of
each anchor 40 is hollow. At least a portion of the hollow portion
of each anchor 40 has an internal diameter greater than the
external diameter of the stopper 60. In some embodiments, at least
a portion of the hollow portion of each anchor 40 has an internally
threaded portion for fastening the first barrier 50 to the first
and second strips 20, 30. In such embodiments, the stopper 60
comprises an externally threaded portion engaging with the
internally threaded portion of the anchor. While the illustrated
embodiment in FIG. 4B shows the shank 44 having an internally
threaded hollow portion and the stopper 60 having an externally
threaded portion, the shank 44 of the anchor 40 and the stopper 60
can be configured such that the stopper 60 has an
internally-threaded hollow portion for receiving an externally
threaded portion of the shank 44 of the anchor. In such cases, the
shank 44 may be hollow or solid. Other possible engagement between
the anchor 40 and the stopper 60, such as a frictional or press
fit, complementary connectors (e.g., via a dovetail joint),
push-connect fasteners (e.g., flexible tabs, buttons, ribs, and the
like which may be compressed and released to form a tight fit), and
combinations thereof are also contemplated. Alternatively,
non-releasable connection (e.g., bonding with an adhesive, welding
or soldering the first and second ends 52, 54 with the anchors 40
once the barriers 50 are brought into contact with the anchors 40)
between the anchors 40 and the first and second ends 52, 54 of the
barriers 50 are also contemplated.
[0042] As mentioned elsewhere herein, the barriers 50 can be in a
generally vertical orientation, a generally horizontal orientation,
or in any angular orientation. In such embodiments, the first and
second strips 20, 30 are in a generally horizontal orientation and
the shank 44 of the anchors 40 extends in a direction generally
perpendicular to the second surface 34 of the first and second
strips 20, 30. Such embodiments are useful in constructing fences
for balconies, deck, and the like. In some embodiments, the first
and second strips 20, 30 are in a generally non-horizontal
orientation. Such embodiments can be useful for constructing
stairways, as illustrated in FIGS. 6-8.
[0043] In the illustrated embodiment shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the
first and second strips 20, 30 are placed in an angular orientation
for a portion of the stairway, rather than in a horizontal
orientation shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. In such cases where the first
and second strips 20, 30 are in an angular orientation (e.g., at an
angle "A" between about 1 degree and about 85 degrees, with respect
to a horizontal plane, such as the treading surface 62 of the
stairs), the barriers 50 can be horizontal, vertical or angled with
respect to the railings 110, 120 and/or first and second strips 20,
30. In such embodiments, the shank 44 of each anchor 40 can extend
in a direction non-perpendicular with respect to the second surface
34 of the first or second strip 30 through which the anchor 40
extends. For instance, the shank 44 can be bendable with respect to
the flared portion 46 of each anchor. The shank 44 can be bendable
(e.g., with a bending tool 80) such that it forms a desired angle
with respect to the flared portion 46 and/or the second surface 34
of one of the first or second strips 20, 30 from which the anchor
40 extends. The shank 44 of the anchor 40 positioned on the other
of the first or second strip 30 can also be bendable such that it
forms a desired angle (e.g., between about 1 degree and about 85
degrees) with respect to the flared portion 46 and/or the second
surface 34 of the other of the first or second strips 20, 30. The
first and second ends 52, 54 of the barriers 50 can be connected to
the angled shanks 44, thereby forming a fence with the barriers 50
in the desired orientation (e.g., horizontal, vertical, or
angular).
[0044] FIGS. 8-14 show a railing system 10 with a plurality of
barriers 50 according to another embodiment. In the illustrated
embodiment best seen in FIGS. 13A-13B, the barriers 50 are
cylindrical with a diameter "D" and a length "H". Of course, any
other cross-sectional shape of the barrier 50 (e.g., square,
hexagonal, octagonal, rectangular, etc.) along the lengthwise
direction is also contemplated. Each barrier 50 slidingly engages
with a pair of sleeves 70. Alternatively, each barrier 50 can be
fixedly coupled to a pair of sleeves 70. In such cases, the sleeves
70 can be positioned toward the first and second ends 52, 54 of
each barrier 50. Each sleeve 70 can be connectable with the shank
44 of a respective anchor. Each sleeve 70 can have a hollow
portion. In such embodiments, the first and second ends 52, 54 can
be receivable by the hollow portion of a respective sleeve 70. Each
sleeve 70 can be connectable with a respective anchor. Once
connected, the engagement between the sleeves 70 and the anchors 40
facilitate anchoring the barriers 50 to the first and second strips
20, 30.
[0045] As mentioned previously, each barrier 50 includes a pair of
stoppers 60 at its first and second ends 52, 54. In the
illustrative (best seen embodiments in FIG. 12), the stoppers 60
are spherical, and can be welded to or integrally formed with
(e.g., by molding if the barriers 50 are fabricated from polymer,
by casting or machining if the barriers 50 are fabricated from
metals) the barrier 50. In the illustrated embodiments shown in
FIG. 12, the hollow portion of each sleeve 70 has an internal
cross-sectional area (e.g., along its lengthwise direction) that is
sufficiently greater than an external cross-sectional area of the
stoppers 60, so that the stoppers 60 can be received by and/or pass
through the hollow portion of the sleeve 70. For instance, if the
sleeves 70 are cylindrical with an annular hollow portion, the
internal diameter of the annulus can be greater than the external
diameter of a cylindrical or spherical stopper 60. As shown in the
illustrated embodiments, the barriers 50 typically have an outer
cross-sectional area less than the outer cross-sectional area of
the stoppers 60. The barriers 50 can therefore pass through the
hollow portions of the sleeves 70, as illustrated in FIG. 8. The
stoppers 60 can be seated in the anchors 40 as described previously
(e.g., with respect to FIG. 4B) and the sleeves 70 can cover the
stopper 60 and/or shank 44 of the anchor, as illustrated in FIGS. 9
and 11. Alternatively, the stoppers 60 can be received by and
seated in the hollow portion of each sleeve 70.
[0046] Each sleeve 70 can engage with an anchor 40 extending from
an opening of the first or second strip 30, and thereby connect
each barrier 50 to the first and second strips 20, 30. As mentioned
herein, the shank 44 of each anchor 40 in embodiments described
herein can be bendable, as shown in FIG. 10 to orient the first and
second strips 20, 30 and/or barriers 50 in any desired orientation
(e.g., horizontal, vertical or angular orientations). In such
cases, prior to engaging with the sleeve 70, the shank 44 of the
anchor 40 can be bent (e.g., with a bending tool 80) to a desired
angle (e.g., angle "B" as shown in FIG. 10). In some cases, the
angle "B" can equal the angle "A" shown in FIG. 6. The sleeves 70
and anchors 40 can then engage by any known means. In one example,
the sleeves 70 and anchors 40 can engage via a threaded connection.
For instance (as shown in FIG. 14), each anchor 40 can have an
externally threaded portion that can engage (e.g., by applying a
torque) with an internally threaded portion of the sleeve 70. In
such embodiments, the hollow portion of sleeve 70 can have internal
threads for at least a portion of the length of the sleeve 70.
Alternatively, the sleeve 70 can be externally threaded and can
engage with an internally threaded portion of the anchor. In such
embodiments, the anchor 40 can have a hollow portion comprising
internal threads to receive and engage with the externally threaded
portion of the sleeve 70. Alternatively, other known means such as
frictional or press fit, complementary connectors (e.g., via a
dovetail joint), push-connect fasteners (e.g., flexible tabs,
buttons, ribs, and the like which may be compressed and released to
form a tight fit), and combinations thereof are also contemplated.
Alternatively, non-releasable connection (e.g., bonding with an
adhesive, welding or soldering the sleeves 70 with the anchors 40
once the barriers 50 are brought into contact with the anchors 40)
between the anchors 40 and the sleeves 70 are also
contemplated.
[0047] In some cases, certain portions of the barrier 50 may sag
when installed on natural or treated woods. The barrier 50 may be
less taut after outdoor exposure for a period of time than when
installed. Also, the barrier 50 may expand after installation in
some cases if it is woven or braided. Certain embodiments of the
railing system shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B can therefore prevent
sagging of the barrier 50 and/or hold it in tension.
[0048] FIGS. 15A and 15B show a barrier 50 according to another
embodiment. In the embodiment best illustrated in FIGS. 15A and
15B, the barrier 50 includes one or more springs 150 proximal to
the stopper 60. In some cases, the springs 150 can be compression
springs. Springs 150 can be sized so that each spring 150 is
captured between a stopper 60 and a sleeve 70. For example, the
spring 150 can be sufficiently small such that it does not slide
past the stopper 60 and can be sufficiently large such that it does
not slide out of sleeve 70 (e.g., side 160 facing away from the
stopper 60). The spring 150 can be provided in one or both first
and second ends 52, 54 of the pre-cut barrier 50. The spring 150
facilitates keeping the barrier 50 taut and in tension when the
first and second ends 52, 54 of the barrier 50 are connected to
corresponding opposite surfaces of railings (e.g., existing
railings 110 and 120, or railings 130, 140 of fence 100 shown in
FIG. 2). If during use, the barriers 50 have any extra slack that
would cause them to sag instead of extending linearly between
railings (e.g., existing railings 110 and 120, or railings 130, 140
of fence 100), the spring 150 develops a spring force to pull the
barrier 50 until linear and/or taut.
[0049] With continued reference to FIGS. 15A and 15B, the spring
force "F" generated by each compression spring 150 can be generally
oriented along a longitudinal axis 160 of each barrier 50. The
spring force "F" generated by each compression spring is directed
generally toward the first and second strip (20, 30 best seen in
FIG. 7) or away from the center 170 of the barrier 50 as
illustrated by arrows "d" and "e" such that the barrier is held in
tension. The spring force "F" may act to pull portions of the
barrier 50 that sag centrally, thereby having the barrier extend
substantially linearly between the first and second strips when
held in tension.
[0050] Certain embodiments may include a method of mounting a
railing system 10 to railings of a fence 100. The method can
involve the step of providing a railing system 10 such as those
described herein. A desired number of anchors 40 can be positioned
on the openings 36 of the first and second strips 20, 30 such that
the leading edge 42 and shank 44 of each anchor 40 extends in a
direction from the second surface 34 to the first surface 32. When
positioned, the flared portion 46 of each anchor 40 is prevented
from passing through the respective opening so that the flared
portion 46 anchors the anchor 40 against the second surface 34 of
the one of the first and second strips 20, 30. Once the anchors 40
are positioned in the openings 36, the first and second strips 20,
30 can be mounted to respective railings 110, 120 of the fence 100
such that each second surface 34 faces and engages a respective
railing of a fence (e.g., as shown in FIG. 5A). Once mounted, the
flared portions 46 of each anchor 40 being are captured between
first or second strip 30 and the respective railing 110, 120. In
some embodiments, the mounting fixes the flared portion 46 of each
anchor 40 against the respective fence railing 110, 120. As shown
in FIG. 5B, and described herein, the first and second strips 20,
30 are mounted to respective railings 110, 120 by fasteners 38, or
bonded therewith (e.g., by adhesives).
[0051] The shank 44 of each anchor 40 can then be bent with respect
to its flared portion 46 to a desired angle to have the desired
angular orientation. In some embodiments, the angle between the
bent shank 44 and the flared portion 46 is between about 1 degree
and about 85 degrees. In some embodiments, the method of mounting
the railing system 10 to the railings 110, 120 of a fence 100
includes connecting a bending tool 80 as described herein (e.g., as
shown in FIG. 10) to the leading edge 42 of one of the anchors 40,
grasping and manipulating the bending tool 80 to bend the shank 44
of the one of the anchors 40 with respect to its flared portion 46,
and disconnecting the bending tool 80 from the leading edge 42 of
the one of the anchors 40. Once the anchor 40 is bent to a desired
angle, the first and second ends 52, 54 of each elongated barrier
50 can be connected to one of the anchors 40 (e.g., via a threaded
engagement by applying a torque with a tool such as a wrench 90, as
shown in FIG. 14) so that each barrier 50 extends linearly from the
first strip 20 to the second strip 30.
[0052] Thus, embodiments of railing system are disclosed. The
disclosed embodiments are presented for purposes of illustration
and not limitation and other embodiments are possible. One skilled
in the art will appreciate that various changes, adaptations, and
modifications may be made without departing from the spirit of the
invention.
* * * * *