Fence

Abstract

A fence may include one or more sections that are connected to supports, such as fence posts, by attachment members. The attachment members preferably allow the fence sections to be disposed at various angles, elevations and distances from the supports. Advantageously, this may allow the fence to be disposed in a wide variety of configurations and arrangements. This may also allow the fence to be used in a number of different environments, such as on sloped and uneven surfaces. In addition, the fence may be relatively quickly and easily installed because of the readily adjustable connections of the fence sections and supports. The fence may further include other components such as covers, caps, gates and locking assemblies, if desired.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60 / 830,470, which was filed on Jul. 11, 2006 and entitled FENCE. [0002] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60 / 847,169, which was filed on Sep. 25, 2006 and entitled FENCE. [0003] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60 / 883,141, which was filed on Jan. 2, 2007 and entitled FENCE. [0004] These applications are incorporated by reference in their entireties.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0005] 1. Field of the Invention [0006] The present invention generally relates to fences and, in particular, to fences constructed from metal and / or plastic. [0007] 2. Description of Related Art [0008] Conventional fences are made from materials such as wood. Conventional wooden fences typically have an attractive initial appearance, b...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0018] Another aspect is a fence that may include blow-molded plastic components and these components may include one or more depressions or “tack-offs.” The depressions, which may extend from one surface towards another surface, are desirably sized and configured to increase the strength and/or rigidity of the components. Preferably, the depressions extend from one surface and contact or engage an opposing surface, but the depressions do not have to contact or engage another surface. M Advantageously, the depressions may form part of a design or pattern formed in the components, and the design or pattern may minimize and/or hide the depressions from view. In addition, the depressions may be formed in one or both sides of the components. If the depressions are formed in both sides of the components, the depressions may be generally aligned. At least a portion of these opposing depressions may contact or engage each other, but the opposing depressions do not have to touch or engage.

[0019] A fence including blow-molded plastic components may be relatively quickly and easily constructed. For example, the blow-molding process may allow opposing walls, depressions and other desired features to be quickly and easily formed in the components. In addition, the blow-molded plastic components may allow the fence to be quickly and easily assembled. Further, the blow-molded plastic components may allow the fence to be easily repaired, removed and/or replaced.

[0020] A fence including blow-molded plastic components may also allow a strong and sturdy fence to be constructed. For example, the fence may include blow-molded plastic components, such as panels, with opposing walls and a plurality of depressions may be formed in one or both of the walls. Advantageously, this may allow the panels to be constructed with relatively thin outer walls, which may reduce the amount of plastic required to construct the panels. The thin outer walls may also allow the panels to be cooled more quickly during the manufacturing process, which may allow the fence to be manufactured more quickly and efficiently.

[0021] Additionally, because the

Problems solved by technology

Conventional wooden fences typically have an attractive initial appearance, but maintaining that initial appearance may require significant effort because of exposure to the elements.

In addition, conventional wooden fences may rot or deteriorate over time.

Therefore, conventional wooden fences frequently require periodic maintenance, which may be time consuming and expensive.

Furthermore, conventional wooden fences may be difficult and time consuming to install, which may also increase costs and expenses.

Vinyl fences, however, may deteriorate and/or discolor ov

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