Cladding Attachment System
Patent Information
- Application Number
- AU2026202181
- Authority / Receiving Office
- AU · AU
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2025-03-20
- Filing Date
- 2026-03-20
- Publication Date
- 2026-10-08
Smart Images
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Abstract
Description
FIELD OF INVENTION
[001] The present disclosure relates to a system for attachment of cladding to a structure. BACKGROUND
[002] Structures such as walls and fences are manufactured and installed with a specified finish, such as colour or texture. A well-known type of fencing system is a steel fence with a coated finish, such as if sold under the Colorbond™ brand. However, after installation, it may be desired to change the visual finish, such as to a different colour or pattern / texture of the finish, or both. It may also be desired to increase the height of a fence after it has been finished, such as to increase the privacy in a yard or in a building adjacent to the fence.
[003] There are existing cladding systems that are screwed on to the fence. The cladding provides a change in the apparent finish to the fence and / or a change to the apparent height of the fence, without replacement of the installed fence. However, the existing cladding systems involve a permanent change to the fence in the form of holes to receive the screws. Bolting is an alternative to screws, but also involves holes in the fence to support the cladding. As another work around to replacing the fence, a false wall in front of the fence can be created, but that involves substantial work and is semi-permanent.
[004] Existing attachment systems for mounting panels or decorative elements to support structures often employ hooks, brackets, or straps that engage with the support structure. Some systems utilise sliding mechanisms or guide rails to position panels relative to a wall or post. However, these systems may not provide the desired combination of removability, adjustability, and secure attachment without modification to the underlying support structure.
[005] It is desirable to provide a cladding system that does not require permanent alteration such as holes in the existing fence or support structure. It is also desirable to provide a cladding attachment system that allows for adjustment of the position of the cladding relative to the support structure and that can accommodate different types of support structures. SUMMARY
[006] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description. 2026202181 20 Mar 2026
[007] According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a cladding attachment system comprising: one or more first orientation rails with a first clamp for removably clamping to a member of a support structure, and; an attachment mechanism horizontally adjacent or abutting the first orientation rails for removably attaching a cladding sheet to at least one of the one or more first orientation rails so that the cladding sheet is substantially parallel to the support structure.
[008] In an embodiment, the member of the support structure comprises a horizontal rail (such as capping). In an alternative embodiment, the member of the support structure is a vertical post of the support structure. In an embodiment, the support structure comprises a horizontal bottom rail of the support structure and each first orientation rail has a second clamp to removably secure the vertical rails to the horizontal rail of the support structure. In an embodiment, the first orientation rails are vertical rails, each with a clamp to removably secure the vertical rails to the horizontal rail.
[009] In an embodiment, the member of the support structure comprises a vertical post of the support structure.
[010] In an alternative embodiment, the first orientation rails are vertical rails, each with a clamp to removably secure the vertical rails to the vertical post. In an embodiment, there is a second clamp removably secured to the vertical post for clamping the first orientation rail to the support structure. In an embodiment, the first clamp is an upper clamp. In an embodiment, the second clamp is a lower clamp.
[011] In an embodiment, there is a third clamp for clamping a second vertical rail to the support structure, preferably to either the horizontal upper rail or a second vertical post of the support structure, the second vertical rail being spaced from the first vertical rail.
[012] Preferably, there is a fourth clamp for clamping the second vertical rail to the support structure, preferably to either the horizontal lower rail or the second vertical post of the support structure. In an embodiment, the third clamp is a second upper clamp. In an embodiment, the fourth clamp is a second lower clamp.
[013] In an embodiment the cladding attachment system comprises one or more second orientation rails being transversely coupled to and horizontally adjacent or abutting the first 2026202181 20 Mar 2026 orientation rails. In an embodiment, the second orientation rails are substantially orthogonal to the first orientation rails. In an embodiment, the second orientation rails are horizontal rails.
[014] In an embodiment, each vertical rail comprises a ground engaging foot for substantially supporting a portion of the weight of the cladding and the cladding attachment system. In an embodiment, the upper and lower clamps convey reduced to negligible weight load of the cladding and the cladding attachment system to the support structure.
[015] In an embodiment, there are two vertically spaced apart horizontal rails, which support the cladding.
[016] In an embodiment, there is one vertical rail for each cladding sheet. In an alternative embodiment, there are at least two vertical rails for each cladding sheet. In an embodiment, a plurality of cladding panels are used to form the cladding sheet, wherein the cladding panels are edge to edge only horizontally adjacent to each other, or are overlapping at the edges. In an embodiment, the attachment mechanism comprises one or more second orientation rails arranged to be transversely coupled to the first orientation rails.
[017] In an alternative the upper clamps are for clamping a first horizontal orientation rail to the support structure. In this alternative, the lower clamps are for clamping a second horizontal orientation rail to the support structure. Vertical rails may be used to couple the cladding to the horizontal rails.
[018] In an embodiment, the cladding is coupled to at least one of the one or more horizontal rails so as to be horizontally abutting or adjacent. In an embodiment, there are at least two horizontal rails for supporting the cladding sheet.
[019] In an embodiment, there is at least an upper horizontal rail and a lower horizontal rail. In an embodiment the upper rail and the lower rail extend between at least two adjacent vertical rails.
[020] In an embodiment, the vertical position of the upper clamp, or the lower clamp (or both) on the vertical rail is adjustable. In an alternative embodiment, each vertical rail is telescopically extendible in length such that the distance between the upper and lower clamps is variable.
[021] In an embodiment, each vertical rail comprises a releasable lock for locking the telescopic extension in length in place. 2026202181 20 Mar 2026
[022] In an embodiment, the upper and lower clamps face in opposite directions. In an embodiment, the clamps have openings facing the distal ends of the vertical rails. In an embodiment, each of the upper and lower clamps are horizontally offset from the length of the respective vertical rail.
[023] In an embodiment, the extent of horizontal offset of the clamps from the respective vertical rail is adjustable.
[024] In an embodiment, the upper and lower clamps are configured to clamp to a flange of the support structure. In an embodiment, the upper and lower clamps are secured to the flange to prevent horizontal movement, without need to support the weight of the cladding support system and cladding.
[025] In an embodiment, the horizontal rails couple to the vertical rails by a male and female coupling arrangement, such as a tongue and groove arrangement. In an embodiment, the groove portion is a keyed channel and the tongue portion has a corresponding key. In an embodiment, the keyed channel is a T shaped channel and the corresponding key is a T shaped projection. In an embodiment, the horizontal rails are fixed in height along the length of the vertical rails. In an embodiment, the horizontal rails are fixed in height along the length of the vertical rails by a grub screw. In an alternative, the horizontal rails are fixed in height along the length of the vertical rails by a bracket secured to the vertical rails. In an embodiment the bracket comprises the tongue and the horizontal rail provides the groove.
[026] In an embodiment, the cladding sheet is coupled to the horizontal rails by a male and female coupling arrangement, such as a tongue and groove arrangement. In an embodiment, the tongue and groove arrangement comprises a tongue portion and a corresponding groove portion. In an embodiment, the groove portion is a keyed channel extending vertically through and transverse to the length of the horizontal rail and the tongue portion has a corresponding key in the cladding sheet. In an embodiment there is at least one male and female coupling arrangement for each cladding panel.
[027] In an embodiment, one or more of the horizontal rails supports the cladding sheet. In an embodiment, the groove portion is blind on a lower end so as to provide support to the tongue portion by the tongue portion engaging with a wall of the blind lower end.
[028] In an embodiment, the tongue portion is on the cladding sheet and the groove portion is in the horizontal rail. 2026202181 20 Mar 2026
[029] In an embodiment, the corresponding key of the tongue portion of the cladding sheet is provided on a horizontal member attached to the cladding sheet. In an alternative the corresponding key of the tongue portion of the cladding sheet is integrally formed as part of the cladding sheet.
[030] In an embodiment, the cladding attachment system further comprises an end capping coupled to the attachment mechanism to prevent lateral access to and hide the cladding attachment system.
[031] In an embodiment, each clamp comprises a C bracket and an L bracket, wherein the C bracket forms an open rectangular frame with a clamp member, a plate, and a span extending between them, and the L bracket is positioned at the rear of the C bracket and comprises a clamp member and a back. In an embodiment, a threaded bolt is threadingly engaged with the plate and rotatably bears against and moves the clamp member of the L bracket towards the clamp member of the C bracket when the bolt is tightened.
[032] In an embodiment, pads are provided on the inner faces of clamping surfaces of the clamp members of the bracket.
[033] In an embodiment, slots are formed in the span of the C bracket, each slot receiving a threaded shaft of a fastener that passes through the respective slot, the elongated configuration of the slots allowing for adjustable positioning of the fasteners. In an embodiment, the L bracket has corresponding slots allowing for adjustable positioning of the fasteners. The adjustable position of the fasteners allow the position of the vertical rail to be adjusted when the clamp is secured to the vertical post.
[034] In an embodiment, the first orientation rail comprises a rectangular hollow section connected to the clamp via fasteners passing through holes in the rectangular hollow section.
[035] According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a clad fence comprising: a fence; a one or more first orientation rails with an upper clamp for clamping to the fence; an attachment mechanism for attaching a cladding sheet to each first orientation rail.
[036] In an embodiment, the clad fence further comprises a lower clamp for clamping one or more of the first orientation rails to the fence. 2026202181 20 Mar 2026
[037] In an embodiment, the attachment mechanism comprises one or more second orientation rails transversely coupled to the first orientation rails, wherein the one or more second orientation rails are coupled to the cladding sheet.
[038] According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a method of cladding a fence, comprising: attaching one or more first orientation rails to a horizontal top rail of the fence using an upper clamp of each first orientation rail; and attaching a cladding sheet to each first orientation rail using an attachment mechanism.
[039] In an embodiment, the method further comprises attaching the one or more vertical rails to a horizontal bottom rail of the fence using a lower clamp of each vertical rail.
[040] In an embodiment, attaching the cladding sheet to each vertical rail comprises attaching at least one second orientation rail to at least one of the first orientation rails and attaching the cladding sheet to the least one second orientation rail.
[041] In an embodiment, the method further comprises resting a ground engaging foot of at least one of the first orientation rails on the ground so as to support a portion of the weight of the cladding and the rails.
[042] According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a cladding attachment system comprising: one or more first orientation rails with a first temporary attachment mechanism for attaching to a support structure, and; one or more second orientation rails transversely coupled to the first orientation rails, and a second attachment mechanism for attaching a cladding sheet to at least one of the one or more second orientation rails at two or more spaced apart positions on the second orientation rail.
[043] According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a cladding attachment system comprising: at least two first orientation rails each with at least one clamp for clamping to a support structure, and; an attachment mechanism for attaching a cladding sheet to the orientation rails at two or more spaced apart positions along each first orientation rail. 2026202181 20 Mar 2026
[044] According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a cladding attachment system for a support structure, the cladding attachment system comprising: one or more vertical rails secured to a member of the support structure so as to be supported by the support structure; one or more horizontal rails transversely coupled to the one or more vertical rails; and a cladding sheet coupled to the one or more horizontal rails so as to be supported by the one or more horizontal rails, wherein the cladding sheet is substantially parallel to the support structure.
[045] In an embodiment, the one or more horizontal rails are horizontally adjacent or abutting the one or more vertical rails.
[046] In an embodiment, the cladding sheet is coupled to the one or more horizontal rails by a tongue and groove arrangement.
[047] In an embodiment, each vertical rail comprises a ground engaging foot for substantially supporting a portion of the weight of the cladding sheet and the cladding attachment system. In an embodiment, at least one clamp conveys negligible weight load to the support structure.
[048] In an embodiment, the support structure is a fence comprising horizontal members, and each vertical rail has an upper clamp for removably clamping to an upper one of the horizontal members and a lower clamp for removably clamping to the other of the horizontal members.
[049] In an embodiment, the support structure is a fence comprising vertical posts, and each vertical rail has an upper clamp for removably clamping to one of the vertical posts and a lower clamp for removably clamping to the one of the vertical posts.
[050] According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a cladding attachment system comprising: one or more vertical rails; one or more horizontal rails coupled to the one or more vertical rails by a male and female coupling arrangement; and a cladding sheet coupled to the one or more horizontal rails, 2026202181 20 Mar 2026 wherein the male and female coupling arrangement comprises a tongue and groove arrangement having a keyed channel on one of the vertical rail and the horizontal rail and a corresponding keyed projection on the other of the vertical rail and the horizontal rail.
[051] In an embodiment, the keyed channel is a T-shaped channel and the corresponding keyed projection is a T-shaped projection.
[052] In an embodiment, the horizontal rail is coupled to the vertical rail by a bracket secured to the vertical rail, the bracket comprising a T-shaped projection received in a T-shaped recess of the horizontal rail.
[053] According to an aspect of this disclosure there is provided a cladding attachment system comprising: one or more horizontal rails; and a cladding sheet comprising one or more cladding panels, each cladding panel coupled to the one or more horizontal rails by a male and female coupling arrangement, wherein the male and female coupling arrangement comprises a keyed projection on the cladding panel received in a corresponding keyed channel in the horizontal rail, the keyed channel extending transversely through the horizontal rail.
[054] In an embodiment, the keyed projection is a T-shaped projection and the keyed channel is a T-shaped channel.
[055] In an embodiment, the keyed projection is integrally formed as part of the cladding panel.
[056] In an embodiment, the keyed projection is provided on a horizontal member attached to a rear face of the cladding panel.
[057] In an embodiment, the keyed channel of a lower one of the horizontal rails is blind on a lower end so as to provide support to the keyed projection by the keyed projection engaging with a wall of the blind lower end.
[058] In an embodiment, the keyed channel of an upper one of the horizontal rails has an opening at a lower end to allow the keyed projection to pass through. 2026202181 20 Mar 2026
[059] In an embodiment, each cladding panel has a recess on one side and an edge on an opposite side, and adjacent cladding panels overlap in a tiled manner with the edge of one cladding panel received in the recess of an adjacent cladding panel.
[060] Throughout this specification, unless the context requires otherwise, the word “comprise” and variations such as “comprises” and “comprising” will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers.
[061] Throughout this specification, unless the context requires otherwise, the word “include” and variations such as “includes” and “including” will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers.
[062] Any discussion of background art, any reference to a document and any reference to information that is known, which is contained in this specification, is provided only for the purpose of facilitating an understanding of the background art to the present invention, and is not an acknowledgement or admission that any of that material forms part of the common general knowledge in Australia or any other country as at the priority date of the application in relation to which this specification has been filed. The foregoing general description of the illustrative embodiments and the following detailed description thereof are merely exemplary aspects of the teachings of this disclosure and are not restrictive. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES
[063] Non-limiting and non-exhaustive examples are described with reference to the following figures.
[064] Figure 1 is an isometric view of a cladding attachment system for attaching cladding to a support structure, according to aspects of the present disclosure.
[065] Figure 2 is a plan view of the cladding attachment system of Figure 1, according to an embodiment.
[066] Figure 3 is a front elevation view of a cladding sheet with a finish, according to aspects of the present disclosure.
[067] Figure 4 is a plan view from a horizontal cross-section through A-A of Figure 3 showing the cladding attachment system with cladding in place, according to an embodiment.
[068] Figure 5 is a from a vertical cross-section though B-B of Figure 2 showing a rear view of the cladding attachment system, according to aspects of the present disclosure. 2026202181 20 Mar 2026
[069] Figure 6 is a close-up isometric view of an upper portion of the cladding attachment system, according to an embodiment.
[070] Figure 7 illustrates an isometric view of a vertical rail in a contracted state during installation, according to aspects of the present disclosure.
[071] Figure 8 illustrates an isometric view of the vertical rail of Figure 7 with a lower clamp engaged, according to an embodiment.
[072] Figure 9 illustrates an isometric view of the vertical rail of Figure 7 in an extended state with clamps engaged, according to aspects of the present disclosure.
[073] Figure 10 illustrates an isometric view of a clamp assembly for the cladding attachment system, according to an embodiment.
[074] Figure 11 illustrates an isometric view of a variant of the clamp assembly of Figure 10, according to aspects of the present disclosure.
[075] Figure 12 is a close-up isometric view of a coupling device for attaching a horizontal rail to a vertical rail, according to an embodiment.
[076] Figure 13 is a close-up isometric view of a lower portion of the cladding attachment system, according to aspects of the present disclosure.
[077] Figure 14 is an isometric view of a cladding panel attached to a pair of horizontal rails, according to an embodiment.
[078] Figure 15 is a partial horizontal cross-sectional view through the section A-A of Figure 3 showing cladding panels attached to the cladding attachment system, according to aspects of the present disclosure.
[079] Figure 16 is a horizontal cross-sectional view of a cladding panel, according to an embodiment.
[080] Figure 17 is a horizontal cross-sectional view of a cladding panel with a finish, according to aspects of the present disclosure.
[081] Figure 18 is a partial horizontal cross-sectional view through the section A-A of Figure 3 showing an end capping attached to the cladding attachment system, according to an embodiment.
[082] Figure 19 is an isometric view of an alternative attachment mechanism for a cladding panel, according to aspects of the present disclosure.
[083] Figure 20 is an isometric view of an alternative embodiment vertical rail with an upper clamp, according to an embodiment.
[084] Figure 21 is a horizontal cross-sectional view of an alternative cladding panel, according to aspects of the present disclosure.
[085] Figure 22 is a horizontal cross-sectional view of a plurality of cladding panels installed on a horizontal rail, according to an embodiment. 2026202181 20 Mar 2026
[086] Figure 23 is an enlarged horizontal cross-sectional view of a cladding panel with a finish, according to aspects of the present disclosure.
[087] Figure 24 is an enlarged horizontal cross-sectional view of a cladding panel with another finish variant, according to an embodiment.
[088] Figure 25 is an enlarged horizontal cross-sectional view of a cladding panel with a third finish, according to aspects of the present disclosure.
[089] Figure 26 illustrates an isometric view of a cladding attachment system according to another embodiment, according to aspects of the present disclosure.
[090] Figure 27 illustrates an isometric view of a cladding attachment system according to another embodiment, according to an embodiment.
[091] Figure 28 illustrates an isometric view of a clamp for the cladding attachment system, according to an embodiment.
[092] Figure 29 illustrates an isometric view of a C bracket from a front perspective, according to aspects of the present disclosure.
[093] Figure 30 illustrates an isometric view of an L bracket from a rear perspective, according to an embodiment.
[094] Figure 31 illustrates an exploded isometric view of a bracket assembly including a rectangular hollow section for the cladding attachment system, according to aspects of the present disclosure.
[095] Figure 32 illustrates a plan view of a bracket assembly mounted to a vertical support post, according to an embodiment.
[096] Figure 33 illustrates an isometric view of a post arrangement for the cladding attachment system, according to aspects of the present disclosure.
[097] Figure 34 illustrates a vertical cross-sectional view showing a bracket connected to a rectangular hollow section and a horizontal rail, according to an embodiment.
[098] Figure 35 illustrates an isometric view of a clamp assembly mounted to a vertical support post, according to aspects of the present disclosure.
[099] Figure 36 illustrates an isometric view of a bottom clamp and foot assembly for the cladding attachment system, according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[100] The following description sets forth exemplary aspects of the present disclosure. It should be recognized, however, that such description is not intended as a limitation on the scope of the present disclosure. Rather, the description also encompasses combinations and modifications to those exemplary aspects described herein. 2026202181 20 Mar 2026
[101] Embodiments of the cladding support system of the present disclosure are now described. Various embodiments are described by way of example. These embodiments may be used in any combination. It is not intended that all of the combinations and variations need to be used as described in the examples below.
[102] With reference to the figures, according to an embodiment of the present invention there is a cladding attachment system 10 for attaching cladding 30 to a support structure 3. In this example the support structure 3 is a fence that has an upper horizontal rail 6 of capping that is generally an inverted U shape in cross section. The U shape defines downward walls 7 connected by a horizontal connecting member. The fence has vertical support posts 8 and a panel member 5 forming a wall between the vertical posts 8 and on which the capping 6 sits. Typically, there is also a lower horizontal rail of capping that is generally U shape in cross section. The U shape defines upward walls 9 (see Figure 8) connected by a horizontal connecting member. An example of such a fence is made from coated steel provided under the Colorbond™ brand. The cladding attachment system 10 can be used with other types of fence and indeed other types of support structures.
[103] The cladding attachment system 10 comprises one or more, preferably at least two, vertical rails 12 with an upper clamp 14 for clamping to the support structure 3, in this embodiment to the wall 7 of the horizontal top rail 6 of the support structure 3. However as described below in relation to Figure 26, the upper clamp could be oriented to clamp to the vertical post 8. In this case two vertical rails 12 with upper clamps are shown but it is expected the number of vertical rails 12 would be determined according to the length to be clad. There may also be one or more vertical rails 13 (in this case one is shown) that do not have the upper clamps. Preferably these are one between the two rails 12. It is possible that these rails are not vertical, but them being vertical is preferred.
[104] Preferably there is also a lower clamp 14’ on each of the rails 12 for clamping to the support structure 3, and in this embodiment to the wall 9 horizontal bottom rail of the support structure 3. However as described below in relation to Figure 26, the lower clamp could be oriented to also clamp to the vertical post 8. There may be a lower clamp 14’ for each upper clamp 14, which is the case in this example, but there may also be variations, such as not every upper clamp 14 has a corresponding lower clamp 14’ and vice versa, or lower clamps may be provided on the or some of the vertical rails 13.
[105] In an embodiment, the upper and lower clamps 14, 14’ face in opposite directions. The clamps 14, 14’ have openings facing the distal ends of the vertical rails 12. Clamp 14 has an 2026202181 20 Mar 2026 upward facing opening and clamp 14’ has a downward facing opening. These openings are for receiving the corresponding wall portions 7, 9 of the capping. Preferably, the position of one or both of the clamps 14, 14’ is adjustable with respect to the length of the rail 12 so as enable the clamps 14, 14’ to be hooked under / over the walls portions 7 / 9 of the capping.
[106] There is an attachment mechanism for attaching one or more cladding members that forms the cladding 30 to at least one of the one or more vertical rails 12 / 13. The external face of the cladding 30 has a finish 32. The finish 32 may be textured and coloured. In this case the texturing is vertical ridges provided by a squarewave shape in horizontal cross-section. The texture may be otherwise, such as the channels described below in other examples.
[107] In an embodiment, each vertical rail 12, and optionally rail 13, comprises a ground engaging foot 22 for substantially supporting a portion of the weight of the cladding 30 and the cladding attachment system 10. The foot 22 contacts and transfers weight to the ground 2. It can also resist lateral movement over the ground 2 by way of friction. In an embodiment, the upper and lower clamps 14, 14’ convey negligible weight load of the cladding 30 and the cladding attachment system 10 to the support structure 3. The clamps 14, 14’ substantially provide horizontal / shear force support, such as to provide balance of the support structure and cladding on the feet 22. However, in an alternative the clamps 14, 14’ may support more or all of the weight load, without the feet 22. Preferably the height of the bottom of the rail 12 / 13 from the foot 22 is adjustable by way of a threaded screw coupling of a post extending from the foot into a complementary threaded hole on the underside of the rail 12 / 13.
[108] In this example the attachment mechanism comprises a plurality of horizontal rails 16, 18 and 20. It is possible for these rails to be other than horizontal, but horizontal is preferred. These rails 16, 18 and 20 are transverse, preferably orthogonal, to the vertical rails 12. The upper rail 16 of the horizontal rails is near the top of the vertical rails 12 / 13. The lower rail 18 of the horizontal rails is near the bottom of the vertical rails 12 / 13. Rail 20 is preferred to provide increased structural rigidity and is preferably midway between the rails 16, 18. The rails 16 / 18 / 20 may be formed of end to end sections as described further below in relation to Figure 15.
[109] The plurality of horizontal rails 16, 18 and 20 are attached to the vertical rails 12, 13 so that they are held in place, for example as described below in relation to Figure 12. Other modes of attachment can also be used, such as welding or the use of fasteners. It is preferred that the attachment can be released in case of removal of the cladding 30 from the support structure 3. 2026202181 20 Mar 2026
[110] The cladding is attached to the horizontal rails 16, 18, 20 by suitable means, such as by using fasteners, however preferred forms of attachment are described below.
[111] Ends of the support structure 3 may have vertical end caps 34, which are described further below. The end caps 34 prevent lateral access to and hide the cladding attachment system 10.
[112] Referring to Figure 6, upper clamp 14 is shown positioned clamping the wall 7 of the capping 6 of the support structure 3. The clamp 14 comprises jaws preferably in the form of member 40 and member 42 (partially obscured behind wall 7). Preferably the members 40, 42 are padded, such as with rubber, plastic or silicone padding or the like, to protect the wall 7. The members 40, 42 are able to be moved towards each other, with the wall 7 in between, and to clamp the wall 7. Various forms of movement mechanism can be employed, such as spring loading or a vice mechanism. In the embodiment shown the horizontal position of member 42 is adjustable relative to the vertical rail 12 by use of knob 46. This adjusts the offset of the member 42 from the rail 12. This allows the rail 12 to be offset a desired distance from the support structure 3 by hooking the member 42 under the wall 7 and pulling the rail 12 away while adjusting the distance. Then the distance of member 40 from the rail 12 is adjusted (also adjusting the distance of the member 40 relative to member 42) by use of knob 48. This allows member 40 to initially be clear of the wall 7 then adjusted to be in contact with the wall 7 and then tightened so as to clamp the wall 7 and thereby clamp the rail 12 to the support structure using the clamp 14.
[113] Also shown in Figure 6 is another upper clamp 15 of another cladding support system (not shown) situated on the other side of the support structure 3 to the vertical rail 12. Clamp 15 comprises members 40’ and 42’ but is not engaged with the wall opposite to wall 7 of the capping 6. This clamp 15 is also able to have member 42’ hooked under the unseen wall and then clamp that wall. A spacer 43’ may be used to space the member 42’ from the panel 5. It may be rubber, plastic, silicone or the like to ensure it does not damage the panel 5.
[114] Figures 10 and 11 show variations of the clamp 14 and attachment of the clamp 14 to the vertical rail 12. The members 40, 42 are able to be moved towards each other, with the wall 7 in between, in gap 50 and to clamp the wall 7. In this embodiment shown the horizontal position of member 42 is adjustable relative to the vertical rail 12 by use of knob 46 by rotation in direction M. This may employ a rack and pinion mechanism inside of sleeve 54 that drive inner member 56 connection to the rack. The pinion is connected to the knob 46. Member 56 is connected to the side of the rail 12. Rotation of the knob 46 turns the pinion that moves the 2026202181 20 Mar 2026 rack and inner member in direction N. This adjusts the offset of the member 42 from the rail 12. This allows the rail 12 to be offset a desired distance from the support structure 3 by hooking the member 42 under the wall 7 and pulling the rail 12 away while adjusting the distance, similar to that described above in relation to Figure 6. Then the distance of member 40 from the rail 12 is adjusted (also adjusting the distance of the member 40 relative to member 42) by turning knob 48 in direction X. This allows member 40 to initially be clear of the wall 7 then adjusted in direction Y to narrow the gap 50 as indicated in Figure 11 to eventually be in contact with the wall 7 and then tightened so as to clamp the wall 7 and thereby clamp the rail 12 to the support structure using the clamp 14.
[115] Figure 20 shows another variation of the clamp 14 and attachment of the clamp 14 to the vertical rail 12. In this variation the position of the clamp along the length of the vertical rail 12 is adjustable as shown by arrows R. This will allow member 40 to be hooked under the wall 7. Then the position of the member 42 is able to be moved by knob 48 rotation in direction X to move the members 40, 42 initially from distance Z apart in direction Y so as to clamp the wall 7. Then position of the rail 12 with respect to the clamp 14 can be adjusted by rotation of knob 46 in direction M to move it in direction N. The order of adjustment by the knobs 46, 48 may be the other way around.
[116] Referring to Figures 7 to 9, in an embodiment, each vertical rail 12 is telescopically extendible in length. This is an alternative way for the distance between the upper and lower clamps 14, 14’ to be varied. The rails 12 may comprise rail segments 200, 202 which are sleeves around an inner segment 204. The segments 200, 202 are able to move apart or towards each other and slid along respective parts of the length of the inner segment 204 in a telescopic manner. In an embodiment, each vertical rail 12 comprises a releasable lock 206 for locking the telescopic extension in length in place. The telescopic nature of the rails enable the clamps 14, 14’ to the positioned. Starting at Figure 7, the rail 12 is already short or is telescopically shortened, as indicated by arrows C and circle 1.
[117] The lower clamp 14’ is positioned on the wall 9 and clamped as indicated by circle 2, in a similar but inverted manner that the upper clamp 14 is positioned on and clamped to the wall 7. This includes moving the rail towards the support structure 3, as indicated by arrow D at a height that the member 42 clears the wall 9 and is then lowered to overlap with the wall 9. Optionally the height of the rail 12 relative to the ground 2, may be adjusted by adjusting the position of the foot 22 (see Figure 5). Clamp 14’ can then have member 40 move towards member 42 and thus the wall 9 can be clamped between members 42 and 40. The rail 12 could be shortened at this point instead of shortening it first. 2026202181 20 Mar 2026
[118] As shown in Figure 9, the rail is telescopically extended in length as indicated by arrows E and the locking mechanism 206 activated as indicated by circle 3. In this embodiment segment 204 is fixed in relation to segment 200 and segment 202 is slidable relative to segment 204 until locked in place by locking mechanism 206. It could be the other way around (segment 200 slides relative to segment 204 until locked in place). Clamp 14 is installed on wall 7 and clamped in place as described above and as indicated by circle 4. In particular member 42 is raised behind wall 7 as the rail 12 is telescopically extended, and then member 40 is moved towards member 42 so that wall 7 is clamped.
[119] Referring back to Figure 6, the vertical rail 12 is connected to the horizontal rail 16 by a connector 70. The vertical rail 12 has a channel 60 for receiving part of the connector 70. In this manner a male and female arrangement and in particular a tongue and groove arrangement, preferably a keyed tongue and groove arrangement with a fixing element can connect them together using the connector 70. In particular, in the embodiment shown in the Figures, the channel 60 forms a groove portion that is a keyed channel in a T shape, with a stem 62 of the T shaped channel 60 and T-bar 64 of the T shaped channel 60. Other shapes than a T shape are possible to form the keyed arrangement. The channel 60 receives the keyed projection 71 (see Figure 12) of the connector 70, which is a complementary T shape to the T shaped channel 60, and comprises a stem 72 of the T shaped projection 71 and T-bar 73 of the T shaped projection 71, so as to key the tongue / projection 71 with the groove / channel 60. The channel 60 extends the length of the rail 12. Thus the projection 71 can be inserted into the channel 60 at the end of the rail 12 and slid down the rail 12, as indicated by J in Figure 12, until it is at the desired position and then a grub screw 74, acting as the fixing element, can be tightened to lock the connector in place. A connector 70 is used for each connection between horizontal rails and vertical rails. The fixing in place of the connectors 70 along the length of the rails 12 / 13 will fix in place the height of the horizontal rails 16 / 18 / 20.
[120] The connector 70 couples to the horizontal rails in a similar manner, which will be described in a representative manner with reference to Figures 6 and 12. The horizontal rail 16 has a channel 80 for receiving part of the connector 70. In this manner a male and female arrangement and in particular a tongue and groove arrangement, preferably a keyed tongue and groove arrangement, preferably with a fixing element, can connect them together using the connector 70. In particular, in the embodiment shown in the Figures, the channel 80 forms a groove portion that is a keyed channel in a T shape, with a stem 82 of the T shaped channel 80 and T-bar 84 of the T shaped channel 80. The channel 80 receives the keyed projection 75 2026202181 20 Mar 2026 (see Figure 12) of the connector 70, which is a complementary T shape to the T shaped channel 80, and comprises a stem 76 of the T shaped projection 75 and T-bar 77 of the T shaped projection 75, so as to key the tongue / projection 75 with the groove / channel 80. The channel 80 extends the length of the rail 16. Thus the projection 75 can be inserted into the channel 80 at the end of the rail 16 and slid down the rail 16, as indicated by K in Figure 12, until it is at the desired position. Preferably a grub screw (not shown), acting as the fixing element, can then be tightened to lock the connector 70 in place.
[121] The keyed projection 71 is preferably abutting at 79 and at a right angle to the keyed projection 75 as shown in Figure 12. Thus the rails 16 / 18 / 20 will be at right angles to the rails 12 / 13.
[122] The horizontal rails 16 / 18 / 20 also have coupling means to the cladding sheet 30. In this embodiment, the coupling means is in the form of a male and female arrangement and in particular a tongue and groove arrangement, preferably a keyed tongue and groove arrangement. In this embodiment the rails 16 / 18 / 20 comprise the groove in the form of a channel 90 that is transverse, preferably at right angles, to the length of the rail 16 / 18 / 20. The channel 90 forms a groove portion that is a keyed channel in a T shape, with a stem 92 of the T shaped channel 90 and T-bar 94 of the T shaped channel 90 (see Figures 6 and 13). The channel 90 receives the keyed projection 130 (see Figures 14 and 16) of the connector 130, which is a complementary T shape to the T shaped channel 90, and comprises a stem 132 of the T shaped projection 130 and T-bar 134 of the T shaped projection 130, so as to key the tongue / projection 130 with the groove / channel 90. The T shaped projection 130 are spaced apart on the cladding sheet 30 so as to coincide with the positions of the channels 90. This allows the projections 130 to be inserted into the channels 90 and slid across the rail 16 / 18 / 20 until it is at the desired position as shown in Figure 14. The opening 96 in the bottom of the channels 90 of the rail 16 (and optionally rail 20) allow the projections 130 to pass all the way through.
[123] The rails 16 / 18 / 20 have a mechanism for either connecting end to end with rail segments (such as segments 154 and 156) to collectively form the rail, or to connect to a vertical end capping 34. In the embodiment seen in Figure 6, the mechanism comprises a male and female arrangement and in particular a tongue and groove arrangement, preferably a keyed tongue and groove arrangement. In this embodiment the rails 16 / 18 / 20 comprise the groove in the form of a channel 100 (see Figure 6) that is transverse, preferably at right angles, to the length of the rail 16 / 18 / 20. The channel 100 forms a groove portion that is a keyed channel in a hook shape, preferably at a right angle, with a stem 102 of the hook shaped 2026202181 20 Mar 2026 channel 100 and bar 104 of the hook shaped channel 100. The channel 100 receives the keyed projection of the end capping 34 or a keyed projection at each end of a connector 152 (see Figure 15), each of which is a complementary hook shape to the hook shaped channel 100. For example, in the case of end capping 34 there is a stem 160 and hook projection 162 from the stem 160 as seen in Figure 17. Either the end capping 34 can be slid down the channel 100, or the connector 152 can be slid down the channel 100 of segment 154.
[124] In an embodiment, one or more of the horizontal rails 16 / 18 / 20 supports the cladding sheet 30. In an embodiment, the groove portion of the rail 20 is blind on a lower end by wall 98 (seen in Figures 13 and 14) so as to provide support to the tongue portion 130 by the tongue portion 130 engaging with the wall 98 of the blind lower end. In a preferred form the bottom rail 18 has the wall 98 for supporting the lower end of the projection 130, preventing it from passing all the way through and thus supporting the cladding sheet 30.
[125] In an embodiment the length of the stem 132 is selected so that a rear face 150 of the cladding sheet 30 abuts or is adjacent the rails 16 / 18 / 20. In an embodiment the cladding sheet 30 comprises a plurality of cladding panels 140, 142, 144 in a side by side arrangement. Each cladding panel 140, 142, 144 has one or more of the tongue portions 130 to be coupled to the horizontal rails 16 / 18 / 20.
[126] In the case of the connector 152, the next rail segment 156 can have its channel 100' slid down the connector 152 such that the segments 154, 156 align.
[127] Cladding panels 140, 142, 144 can have a different finish, such as the finish 32A shown in Figure 16, with narrow grooves, in contrast to the square wave finish 32 of the cladding panel of Figure 15. The cladding panels can overlap in a tiled manner at their edges as best seen in Figure 15 so as to form the cladding sheet 30. Cladding panel 144 has an edge 148 that is low in height. The next cladding panel 140 has a recess 146 at the left on page side for receiving the edge 146, as shown. The right on page side has another edge 148 that is also low in height. The next cladding panel 142 also has a recess 146 for receiving the edge 148 of panel 140, and so on.
[128] The end capping 34 may comprise a proud portion 170 and recess 172 under the proud portion 170 as shown in Figure 18. The recess 172 can receive the edge 148. The hook 162 faces the proud portion 170 and together will retain the capping 34 on the cladding attachment system 10 with the cladding 30. The end capping 34 is usually installed last. 2026202181 20 Mar 2026
[129] The corresponding projections 130 of the cladding panels of the cladding 30 are typically integrally formed as part of the cladding sheet.
[130] The cladding panels 140, 142, 144 are arranged edge to edge and only horizontally adjacent to each other.
[131] Referring to Figure 17, an alternative of the cladding panel 140, where the rear face 150 has a gap 145 between the projections 130 so as to save material and cost of the panel.
[132] Referring to Figure 21, an alternative of the cladding panel 140, where the rear face 150 has a single projection 130. The cladding panel 140 is narrow in width so that the single projection 130 is sufficient to support the panel 140. It has finish 32B which is provided by channels. Figure 22 shows panel 140 of Figure 21 and other similar panels 142, 144 coupled to the horizontal rail 16 / 18 / 20 by respective single projection 130 in recess 90.
[133] Figure 23 to 25 show a comparison of different finishes 32B, 32C and 32D obtained by different panel profiles.
[134] Referring to Figure 19, in an alternative embodiment, the corresponding projections 130 of the cladding sheet 30 are provided on a horizontal member 300 attached to a rear side 150 of cladding panels 140, 142, 144 which form the cladding sheet 30 by screws 306 passing through holes 304 in the member 300.
[135] The height of the cladding sheet 30 from the ground 2 may be higher than the height of the support structure 3 (that is the height of the capping 6 from the ground 2). In this way a fence may be made higher without modification of the structure of the fence. The cladding can be of a desired finish, without modification of the support structure. The cladding may be removed returning the support structure to its original state, or the cladding replaced with different cladding sheets to change the finish, without removal of the cladding attachment system 10.
[136] The cladding attachment system 10 is arranged such that the attachment mechanism is horizontally adjacent or abutting the vertical rails 12, and the cladding 30 is positioned so as to be substantially parallel to the support structure 3.
[137] Referring to the embodiment of Figure 26, the upper and lower clamps 14, 14’ face in the same direction. The clamps 14, 14’ have openings facing the vertical post 8 of the support structure 3. These openings are for receiving a flange portion of the vertical post 8. The jaws 2026202181 20 Mar 2026 of the clamp 14 comprising members 40 and 42 are oriented at 90 degrees to the previous embodiment. The member 42 of the jaws of the clamp 14 sits between the flange portion and the wall 5 of the support structure 3. Usually there is a small gap into which the member 42 can be inserted. If there is no gap, or it is not big enough, the sheet metal from which the wall 5 is made is usually thin and so can be easily deflected to create or widen the gap to insert the member 42. Member 40 can then be moved towards the member 42 so as to clamp the flange portion between the members 40, 42. The distance N of the vertical rail 12 from the members 40, 42 can be adjusted as described above. Clamp 14’ can likewise be clamped on to the vertical post 8.
[138] In an aspect there is a kit of parts that when assembled form the cladding attachment system 10 and when the cladding is applied form a clad fence / other support structure.
[139] Referring to Figures 27 to 36, an alternative clamp arrangement is shown. Referring to Figure 27, an isometric view of the cladding attachment system 10 according to this alternative embodiment is shown. The clamp members 40 and 42 are oriented to clamp onto a flange portion of the vertical support post 8. The clamp 400 comprises a C bracket 402 and an L bracket 406. The C bracket 402 and L bracket 406 form the clamp assembly that secures to the vertical support post 8. The clamp 400 secures the vertical rail 12 to the vertical support post 8. The vertical rail 12 in the form of RHS 450. A bracket 462 is connected to the RHS 450, and a T projection 468 extends from the bracket 462 for coupling to the upper horizontal rail 16.
[140] The C bracket 402 forms an open rectangular frame with clamp member 40 and plate 422 with a span 424 extending between. The L bracket 406 is positioned at the rear of the C bracket 402 and is formed of clamp member 42 and back 426.
[141] Compressible pads 404 are provided on the inner faces of the members 40 and 42 to protect the support post 8 when clamped therebetween. Clamp member 40 and clamp member 42 define a gap therebetween for receiving a profiled portion of the support post 8.
[142] As shown in Figures 28 to 30, slots 412 are formed in the span 424 of the C bracket 402. Slots 414 are formed in the lower horizontal member. Each slot 414 overlaps a corresponding slot 412 and is able to receive a threaded shaft 416 of a fastener / bolt that passes through the respective slot. The elongated configuration of the slots 412, 414 allows for adjustable positioning of the fasteners along the length of the slots 412. The slidable position in the slots allows for adjusting the offset of a vertical post 450 that the fastener screws into from the vertical support post 8. The vertical post 450 acts as the vertical rail 12 of the 2026202181 20 Mar 2026 above embodiments. A bearing surface 408 is provided on the member 42 in the form of a raised ring for holding in place a fastener / bolt comprising a threaded shaft 416. The ring may be part of a bearing that holds the fastener longitudinally captive relative the the clamp member 42, but allows it to rotate relative the clamp member 42. A rivot-nut (rivnut) 410 is installed on the plate 422 of the C bracket 402, providing a threaded insert for receiving the threaded shaft 416. A head 418 of the fastener has a hex key hole 420 allowing it to be turned. As the fastener is turned (tightened) and travels through the rivnut 410, the end bears against the L bracket 406 and forces the member 42 to move closer to member 40. Member 40 is held in fixed relation to the plate 422 and the rivnut 410 by the span 424, causing the clamping action of the clamp 400. The back 426 of the L bracket 406 is at a right angle to the member 42 and reduces flexing of the L bracket 406.
[143] Referring to Figure 31, an exploded view shows the assembly of the bracket components. The L bracket 406 and C bracket 402 are configured to be assembled together, with dashed lines indicating the assembly alignment. The vertical post 450 is in the form of a rectangular hollow section (RHS) positioned vertically to form part of the vertical rail structure. Holes 452 are provided in the RHS 450 for receiving fasteners 454, which have hex head holes for turning the fasteners 454 to secure the components together.
[144] Referring to Figures 32 and 33, the bracket assembly is shown mounted to a vertical support post 8. The clamp member 40 is configured to clamp against an inside of a flange portion of the vertical support post 8, while the clamp member 42 engages an outside of the flange portion of the vertical support post 8. The flange portion is typically profiled with outwardly directed peaks 472 between a recess 474, with the opposite side of the flange portion opposite the recess 474 being a peak 472 when viewed from the opposite direction. The threaded shaft 416 of the bolt passing through the slots 412 extends into a hole 452 in the RHS 450. A surface 456 is provided facing outward from the post 8 to which a bracket 462 may be fixed, which in turn is for mounting the horizontal rail 16.
[145] Referring to Figure 34, a vertical cross sectional view shows the bracket 462 connected via a bolt 476 to the surface 456 of the RHS 450. The bracket 462 has a tongue in the form of a T projection 468 on to which the horizontal rail 16 can be connected. The horizontal rail 16 includes a groove in the form of a T recess 480, which provides the keyed engagement features for coupling the horizontal rail 16 to the RHS 450 via the bracket 462. The finish 32 of the cladding is then mounted to the horizontal rail 16 as described above. 2026202181 20 Mar 2026
[146] Referring to Figure 35, the clamp assembly is shown mounted to a vertical support post 8 of the support structure. The RHS 450 is positioned adjacent to the clamp assembly and extends vertically to form part of the vertical rail structure. The bracket 462 with T projection 468 is visible on the RHS 450.
[147] Referring to Figure 36, a bottom clamp and foot assembly is shown. The vertical rail in the form of the RHS 450 includes a ground engaging foot 22 positioned at the base. The ground engaging foot 22 includes a threaded rod extending downward from the bottom of the RHS 450 into a foot plate, providing height adjustability. A clamp 400 is mounted to the RHS 450 at an intermediate position for engaging with a member of the support structure.
[148] The invention has the advantage of being temporarily, removably attachable to the support structure (such as a fence) without damage to, or modification of, the structure.
[149] Whilst preferred embodiments of the present invention have been herein before described, the scope of the present invention is not limited to those specific embodiments, and may be embodied in other ways, as will be apparent to a skilled addressee.
[150] Modifications and variations such as would be apparent to a skilled addressee are deemed to be within the scope of the present invention.
[151] A number of implementations have been described. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, other implementations are within the scope of the following claims.
Claims
1. A cladding attachment system comprising:one or more first orientation rails with a first clamp for removably clamping to a member of a support structure; andan attachment mechanism horizontally adjacent or abutting the first orientation rails for removably attaching a cladding sheet to at least one of the one or more first orientation rails so as to be substantially parallel to the support structure.
2. The cladding attachment system of claim 1, wherein the member of the support structure comprises a horizontal rail and the first orientation rails are vertical rails, each with a clamp to removably secure the vertical rails to the horizontal rail.
3. The cladding attachment system of claim 2, wherein the support structure comprises a horizontal bottom rail and each first orientation rail has a second clamp to removably secure the vertical rails to the horizontal bottom rail.
4. The cladding attachment system of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the member of the support structure comprises a vertical post.
5. The cladding attachment system of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein each first orientation rail comprises a ground engaging foot for substantially supporting a portion of the weight of the cladding and the cladding attachment system.
6. The cladding attachment system of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the attachment mechanism comprises one or more second orientation rails transversely coupled to the first orientation rails so as to be horizontally abutting or adjacent.
7. The cladding attachment system of claim 6, wherein the second orientation rails are horizontal rails coupled to the cladding sheet by a tongue and groove arrangement.
8. The cladding attachment system of claim 7, wherein the tongue and groove arrangement comprises a keyed channel having a T-shaped cross-section and a corresponding T-shaped projection on the cladding sheet.2026202181 20 Mar 20269. The cladding attachment system of any one of claims 7 to 8, wherein the groove portion is blind on a lower end so as to provide support to the tongue portion by the tongue portion engaging with a wall of the blind lower end.
10. The cladding attachment system of any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the horizontal rails are fixed in height along the length of the first orientation rails by a grub screw.
11. The cladding attachment system of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein each first orientation rail is telescopically extendible in length such that the distance between an upper clamp and a lower clamp is variable.
12. The cladding attachment system of claim 11, wherein each first orientation rail comprises a releasable lock for locking the telescopic extension in place.
13. The cladding attachment system of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein each of an upper clamp and a lower clamp are horizontally offset from the respective first orientation rail, and the extent of horizontal offset is adjustable.
14. The cladding attachment system of claim 13, wherein the upper and lower clamps face in opposite directions with openings facing distal ends of the first orientation rails.
15. The cladding attachment system of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein a plurality of cladding panels are used to form the cladding sheet, wherein the cladding panels are edge to edge only horizontally adjacent to each other.
16. The cladding attachment system of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the clamp comprises a C bracket and an L bracket, wherein the C bracket forms an open rectangular frame with a clamp member, a plate, and a span extending between them, and the L bracket is positioned at the rear of the C bracket and comprises a clamp member and a back.
17. The cladding attachment system of claim 16, wherein pads are provided on the inner faces of the clamp members of the C bracket and the L bracket.
18. The cladding attachment system of any one of claims 16 to 17, wherein slots are formed in the C bracket, each slot receiving a threaded shaft of a fastener that passes through the respective slot, the elongated configuration of the slots allowing for adjustable positioning of the fasteners.2026202181 20 Mar 202619. The cladding attachment system of any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the first orientation rail comprises a rectangular hollow section connected to the clamp via fasteners passing through holes in the rectangular hollow section.
20. A clad fence comprising:a fence comprising a horizontal top rail;one or more first orientation rails with an upper clamp for removably clamping to the horizontal top rail of the fence; andan attachment mechanism for removably attaching a cladding sheet to each first orientation rail.