Species protection fence and species protection system

Abstract

Species protection fence (1) the species protection fence (1) is made of a flexible, sheet-shaped plastic fabric sheet, wherein a first and / or a second side of the species protection fence (1) has at least a partial surface modification, wherein the species protection fence has a lower section (2) and an upper section (3), wherein at least the first side of the species protection fence has a print in the lower section (2), and wherein at least the first side of the species protection fence in the upper section (3) has a visual signaling element.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a species protection fence and a species protection system.

[0002] Species conservation encompasses measures and strategies for protecting endangered animal and plant species and their habitats. Particularly in infrastructure areas, such as road construction or agricultural land, special devices are used to regulate the entry or crossing of animals and thus minimize the risk to them. Synthetic fabrics are flexible materials made from polymer fibers and woven into woven fabrics. They are characterized by high weather resistance, durability, light weight, and variable mesh sizes. These properties make synthetic fabrics particularly suitable for outdoor use, for example, as protective or boundary elements. Fencing systems serve to physically delineate areas and are frequently used to enclose properties, agricultural land, or protected areas.They consist of various materials such as metal, wood, or plastics and can be modularly designed to allow for easy assembly and adaptation to different terrains. Plastic mesh and fencing systems are used in these fields, including road construction, agriculture, horticulture and landscaping, and nature conservation, for example as amphibian protection fences, wildlife fences, or temporary barriers to protect breeding and resting areas.

[0003] Currently, species conservation measures are often implemented using temporary fences or barriers made of simple materials such as metal mesh, plastic sheeting, or wooden slats. However, these conventional species conservation fences have numerous disadvantages. Firstly, they are often heavy and unwieldy, making transport and installation difficult, especially for longer stretches or in rough terrain. The flexibility of such fences is limited, meaning they adapt poorly to different terrain features and often have gaps through which animals can slip.

[0004] Another problem lies in the lack of weather resistance and durability of the materials used. Many conventional fences are susceptible to UV radiation, moisture, and dirt, leading to rapid aging, embrittlement, or corrosion. This necessitates regular maintenance or replacement, increasing operating costs and impacting the environment. Furthermore, the surfaces of these fences are often not specially treated, allowing them to absorb dirt and water, thereby losing their protective function or becoming visually unsightly.

[0005] Furthermore, conventional fences are often visually unappealing and do not blend harmoniously into their surroundings. This leads to them being perceived as visually disruptive and can negatively impact the landscape or the appearance of residential areas. This lack of visual integration is a significant disadvantage, particularly in sensitive natural or recreational areas.

[0006] Finally, the fastening options for conventional wildlife protection fences are often inflexible and not designed for quick assembly or disassembly. Standardized fastening elements such as eyelets or retaining clips are frequently missing, which complicates installation and can compromise the stability of the barrier. Description of the invention

[0007] The purpose of the invention is to eliminate the disadvantages of the prior art and to provide a species protection fence and a species protection system that not only enable a flexible, weather-resistant and highly visible demarcation of a protected area, but also blend in visually and harmoniously with the surroundings in order not to disturb the landscape and at the same time ensure the protection of wild animals and the promotion of species conservation.

[0008] This problem is solved by the features listed in the claims.

[0009] The problem is solved by a species protection fence, wherein the species protection fence is made of a flexible, sheet-shaped plastic fabric, wherein a first and / or a second side of the species protection fence has at least a partial surface modification, wherein the species protection fence has a lower section and an upper section, wherein at least the first side of the species protection fence has a print in the lower section, and wherein at least the first side of the species protection fence has a visual signaling element in the upper section.

[0010] The wildlife protection fence serves primarily to keep migrating or migrating animals, such as amphibians, reptiles, or small mammals, away from hazardous areas like roads or construction sites and guide them to safety. The use of a flexible, sheet-like plastic fabric allows for easy handling, quick assembly and disassembly, and good adaptability to different terrain. The plastic fabric possesses sufficient mechanical strength to withstand the stresses of weathering and mechanical wear.

[0011] Surface modification on at least one side of the wildlife protection fence can take the form of a coating, embossing, texturing, or the application of functional materials. This modification can improve the fence's weather resistance, UV stability, dirt resistance, or visibility. In particular, the surface modification serves to prevent animals from climbing the wildlife protection fence. The surface modification can cover the entire surface or only parts of the first and / or second side of the wildlife protection fence.

[0012] The wildlife protection fence is divided into a lower and an upper section. The lower section of the first side features a printed design. This design primarily serves to help the fence blend into the landscape. The design can be applied using common printing methods such as screen printing, digital printing, or transfer printing, and is preferably weather-resistant.

[0013] A visual signaling element is positioned in the upper section of the first side of the wildlife protection fence. This visual signaling element can be, for example, a colored marking, a reflective strip, a fluorescent area, or another visually striking element. This signaling element serves to increase the visibility of the fence, especially for larger animals or people, and thus prevent collisions or unintentional attempts to climb over it. The visual signaling element can be permanently attached to the plastic mesh or installed as a separate component.

[0014] The combination of a flexible plastic fabric, targeted surface modification, a printed design on the lower section, and a visual signaling element on the upper section creates a wildlife protection fence that is optimized for functionality, visibility, and durability. This design allows for effective animal guidance and protection, as well as easy handling and adaptation to various locations.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment, the plastic fabric of the species protection fence can be designed as a cross-fiber reinforced fabric. In particular, a polyester-reinforced plastic fabric may be used. The cross-fiber reinforcement can further increase the mechanical strength and tear resistance of the fabric, which can be particularly advantageous during extended periods of use or under heavy stress from wind, animals, or mechanical influences.

[0016] Alternatively or additionally, the plastic fabric can also be reinforced with other fibers, such as glass fibers or polyamide fibers. The cross-fiber reinforced design allows the fabric to maintain its flexibility while simultaneously achieving high stability in both the longitudinal and transverse directions. Polyester-reinforced plastic fabrics, in particular, are characterized by good weather resistance, low water absorption, and high UV stability, which further extends the lifespan of the wildlife fence.

[0017] It is also conceivable that the reinforcing fibers are incorporated into the plastic fabric at regular or irregular intervals to achieve specific mechanical properties. The choice of reinforcing material and the type of reinforcement can be adapted to the specific requirements of the installation site and the desired service life of the wildlife protection fence.

[0018] In another embodiment, the surface modification of the plastic woven fabric can include a coating, lamination, and / or structuring. The surface modification explicitly serves the purpose of preventing animals from climbing over it. For example, the surface of the plastic woven fabric can be provided with a protective layer to increase its resistance to weathering, UV radiation, or mechanical stress, and in particular to make it more difficult or impossible for animals to climb over it. Such a coating can consist of polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or other suitable plastics and can be applied over the entire surface or in sections.

[0019] Alternatively or additionally, the surface modification can be carried out by lamination. In this process, an additional plastic film or other material is applied to the fabric web and firmly bonded to it. Lamination can, for example, make the surface smoother, which reduces the adhesion of dirt or moisture and facilitates cleaning. Furthermore, a smooth lamination specifically helps prevent animals from climbing over the surface by making it more difficult for them to grip or brace themselves against it. Lamination can also help maintain the color intensity of prints or visual signaling elements.

[0020] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the surface modification includes structuring the surface. A structured surface can be created, for example, by embossing, rolling, or other mechanical processes. Such structures can help to influence the surface's reflective properties, increase visibility, or facilitate animals sliding off the fence. In particular, suitable structuring can be specifically designed to prevent animals from climbing over it. A combination of coating, lamination, and structuring is also possible to precisely adjust the desired properties of the plastic mesh and effectively prevent animals from climbing over it.

[0021] The selection and design of the surface modification can be adapted to the specific requirements of the application. Depending on the desired functionality and location, various modifications can be used individually or in combination to further optimize the durability, visibility, and functionality of the wildlife protection fence and, in particular, to prevent animals from climbing over it.

[0022] In another possible embodiment, the coating of the plastic fabric can be a PVC coating. Such a PVC coating offers the advantage of making the surface of the fabric particularly resistant to moisture, UV radiation, and mechanical stress. The use of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) as the coating material also allows for a smooth and easy-to-clean surface, which can simplify the care and maintenance of the wildlife fence. Additionally, the PVC coating can be designed to make the surface particularly non-adherent, effectively hindering or preventing animals from climbing the fence.

[0023] It is also conceivable that the PVC coating is applied to the entire surface or only to sections, for example, only to particularly stressed areas of the fabric. The thickness and composition of the PVC coating can be adapted to the specific requirements of the application. For example, a thicker coating can be chosen for particularly exposed locations, while a thinner layer may suffice in less stressed areas.

[0024] As an alternative to a pure PVC coating, mixtures of PVC and other additives can also be used to improve specific properties such as flexibility, colorfastness, or fire resistance. It is also possible to combine the PVC coating with other surface modifications, such as texturing or lamination, to precisely tailor the desired functional and visual properties of the wildlife fence.

[0025] The selection of a PVC coating therefore represents an advantageous way to increase the service life and functionality of the species protection fence without significantly impairing the flexibility and handling of the plastic fabric.

[0026] In another embodiment, the plastic fabric and / or the surface modification can be weather-resistant, water-repellent, dirt-repellent, and / or UV-resistant. For example, the plastic material used can be selected or modified to exhibit high resistance to various weather conditions, such as rain, snow, frost, or intense sunlight. This can increase the service life of the wildlife fence and ensure its functionality is maintained even during prolonged outdoor use.

[0027] It is also possible to treat the plastic fabric with a water-repellent finish. For example, a hydrophobic coating or impregnation can be applied, which prevents water from penetrating the fabric and thus protects the material from swelling, mold growth, or other moisture-related damage. Alternatively or additionally, the surface modification can be designed so that dirt particles have difficulty adhering and can be easily washed off. This can be achieved through a special surface texture or by using dirt-repellent additives in the coating.

[0028] Furthermore, the plastic fabric and / or the surface modification can be designed to be UV-resistant. This can be achieved, for example, by incorporating UV-stabilizing additives into the plastic material or using them in the coating. Such UV resistance helps prevent the material from becoming brittle, fading, or losing strength, even under intense sunlight.

[0029] The aforementioned properties – weather resistance, water repellency, dirt repellency, and UV resistance – can be implemented individually or in combination to optimally adapt the species protection fence to the specific requirements of its location. Depending on the needs and operating environment, the selection and design of these features can vary to ensure high functionality and durability of the species protection fence.

[0030] In another possible embodiment, the print on the plastic fabric can be applied using low-solvent, water-based, and / or environmentally friendly printing inks. For example, it is conceivable that inks with a particularly low volatile organic compound (VOC) content could be used for the print, in order to minimize environmental impact during the production and use of the wildlife protection fence. Alternatively, water-based printing inks containing no or very low amounts of solvents can be used, thus enabling more environmentally friendly processing.

[0031] Furthermore, it is possible to use specially developed, environmentally friendly printing inks for the printing, which are based on renewable raw materials or are biodegradable, for example. Such printing inks can help to further improve the ecological footprint of the species protection fence, especially if the fence is to be recycled or disposed of after its service life.

[0032] The choice of printing inks can be tailored to specific requirements regarding adhesion, weather resistance, and color intensity. It is also conceivable to combine various printing processes, such as screen printing, digital printing, or transfer printing, with these environmentally friendly inks to achieve a durable and highly visible print. By using low-solvent, water-based, or environmentally friendly printing inks, an additional contribution can be made to environmental protection without compromising the functionality or durability of the wildlife fence.

[0033] In another possible design, the visual signaling element on the first side of the species protection fence can be designed as a color-contrasting element, a reflective element, and / or a fluorescent element. For example, it is conceivable that the visual signaling element has a striking color that clearly stands out from the rest of the species protection fence material. Such a color contrast can increase the visibility of the fence for people and animals, which can be particularly advantageous in heavily frequented or confusing locations.

[0034] Alternatively or additionally, the visual signaling element can be designed as a reflective element. For this purpose, a reflective strip, film, or printed pattern can be used, for example, to reflect incident light, such as from vehicle headlights. Such reflective elements can be particularly helpful at dusk or at night, ensuring that the species protection fence is perceived early and thus reducing the risk of collisions or unintentional crossing.

[0035] Furthermore, the visual signaling element can be designed as a fluorescent element. A fluorescent area can be created, for example, by applying special paints or films that glow particularly intensely in daylight or under UV light. This can draw attention to the upper section of the wildlife protection fence, which can be beneficial for both the protection of animals and the safety of people.

[0036] It is also conceivable that the visual signaling element combines several of the aforementioned properties, for example, by having a color-contrasting element that also exhibits reflective or fluorescent properties. The selection and design of the visual signaling element can be adapted to the specific requirements of the deployment site, the target species, and the environmental conditions. In this way, the functionality and visibility of the species protection fence can be specifically optimized without significantly impairing the flexibility or handling of the fabric.

[0037] In another possible embodiment, the upper section of the species protection fence may have at least one fastening element. For example, one or more fastening elements may be attached to the upper part of the plastic mesh to facilitate the assembly and fixing of the fence to posts, rods, or other supports. Such fastening elements may be in the form of eyelets, loops, tabs, reinforced openings, or sewn-on straps.

[0038] It is also conceivable that the fastening elements are made of metal, plastic, or textile material and are either permanently attached to the fabric or designed as separate, retrofittable components. The arrangement and number of fastening elements can vary and be adapted to the specific requirements of the installation site. For example, several fastening points can be provided along the upper section to ensure even tension and secure hold of the wildlife protection fence.

[0039] Alternatively, the upper section can be reinforced with an edge or have an integrated rope for securing the fence. It is also possible to design the fasteners to allow for easy removal and reattachment of the fence, for example, using hook-and-loop fasteners, snaps, or hooks. The selection and design of the fasteners can be flexibly adapted to the specific installation conditions and the desired lifespan of the fence.

[0040] The optional addition of fastening elements to the upper section further simplifies the handling and assembly of the species protection fence and allows it to be adapted to different application situations without affecting the flexibility or other functional properties of the plastic fabric sheet.

[0041] In another possible embodiment, at least one fastening element in the upper section of the species protection fence can be designed as an eyelet. Such an eyelet can be made of, for example, metal, plastic, or textile material and can either be permanently integrated into the plastic fabric or attached subsequently. It is conceivable that several eyelets are arranged distributed along the upper section to allow for flexible and secure attachment of the fence to posts, rods, or other supports.

[0042] Alternatively, the eyelet can also be designed as a reinforced perforation, with the edge of the opening protected against tearing by an additional material, such as a metal or plastic sleeve. The size, shape, and material of the eyelet can be adapted to the specific requirements of the application. For example, larger eyelets can be designed for thicker fastening ropes or straps, while smaller eyelets are suitable for wire or cable ties.

[0043] It is also possible to use the eyelet in combination with other fastening elements, such as loops, tabs, or hooks, to make the installation of the wildlife fence even more flexible. The arrangement of the eyelets can be chosen to ensure even tension on the fence and prevent sagging. Likewise, the eyelets can be positioned at regular or irregular intervals along the upper section, depending on the desired flexibility and stability of the fastening.

[0044] The optional use of eyelets as fastening elements in the upper section of the species protection fence further simplifies handling and assembly and allows it to be adapted to different local conditions without restricting the other functional properties or the flexibility of the plastic fabric sheet.

[0045] The present invention further relates to a species protection system comprising a species protection fence, as described above, and at least one retaining element. The species protection system is designed such that the species protection fence is provided for erecting a protected area by means of the at least one retaining element.

[0046] The retaining element can be, for example, a post, rod, ground spike, support pole, or other suitable fastening element that enables stable and secure installation of the species protection fence in the field. The retaining element can also be a rope intended for connection to fastening elements of the species protection fence. Several different retaining elements are conceivable. The retaining elements can be made of metal, plastic, wood, or composite materials and are preferably designed so that they can be easily inserted into the ground or attached to existing structures. It is possible that the retaining elements are equipped with special devices, such as ground anchors, ground sleeves, or screw foundations, to ensure secure anchoring even under varying soil conditions.

[0047] The wildlife protection fence is erected along the area to be protected using the support elements, thus creating a buffer zone against uncontrolled entry or crossing by animals. The support elements can be arranged at regular intervals along the fence line to ensure consistent tension and stability. Depending on the design, the support elements can be permanently attached to the fence or be separate, reusable components.

[0048] The species protection system allows for the flexible and needs-based demarcation of protected areas, for example, along roads, construction sites, bodies of water, or other hazardous locations. The combination of a flexible, adaptable species protection fence and suitable anchoring elements allows the system to be quickly assembled and disassembled and adapted to different terrains and locations. The selection and design of the anchoring elements can be tailored to the specific requirements of the site, the desired duration of the fence's use, and the animal species to be protected.

[0049] Overall, the species protection system offers an effective way to temporarily or permanently demarcate protected areas, thereby guiding migrating or endangered animals and protecting them from harm. The system's modular design allows for easy handling, quick assembly and disassembly, and high flexibility in adapting to different operating conditions. Implementation of the invention

[0050] The invention will be explained in more detail using an exemplary embodiment. For this purpose, [the text shows...] Fig. 1. A species protection system with a species protection fence and holding elements.

[0051] The description refers to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate specific embodiments in which the arrangement according to the invention can be implemented. In this respect, directional terminology such as "top," "bottom," etc., is used with reference to the orientation of the described drawings. This directional terminology serves for illustrative purposes and is in no way restrictive.

[0052] It is understood that other embodiments may be used and structural or logical modifications made without deviating from the scope of protection of the present invention. It is understood that the features of the various exemplary embodiments described herein may be combined with one another, unless specifically stated otherwise. The following detailed description is therefore not to be interpreted as restrictive, and the scope of protection of the present invention is defined by the appended claims.

[0053] The species protection system according to the invention, including the species protection fence according to the invention, is in Fig. 1 shown.

[0054] The species protection fence 1 is made of a flexible, sheet-like plastic fabric. At least one and / or one side of the species protection fence 1 has a surface modification. The species protection fence has a lower section 2 and an upper section 3. At least the first side of the species protection fence has a printed design in the lower section 2. At least the first side of the species protection fence has a visual signaling element in the upper section 3.

[0055] According to various embodiments, the plastic fabric web is designed as a cross-fiber reinforced fabric, in particular as a polyester-reinforced plastic fabric,

[0056] According to various embodiments, the surface modification includes coating, lamination and / or structuring.

[0057] According to various embodiments, the coating is a PVC coating.

[0058] According to various embodiments, the plastic fabric sheet and / or the surface modification is / are designed to be weather-resistant, water-repellent, dirt-repellent and / or UV-resistant.

[0059] According to various embodiments, the imprint is applied using low-solvent, water-based and / or environmentally friendly printing inks.

[0060] According to various embodiments, the visual signaling element is designed as a color-contrasting element, a reflective element and / or a fluorescent element.

[0061] According to various embodiments, the upper section 3 has at least one fastening element 4.

[0062] According to various embodiments, at least one fastening element 4 is an eyelet.

[0063] The species protection system 5 comprises a species protection fence 1 and at least one retaining element 6. The species protection fence 1 is designed to be erected to demarcate a protected area by means of the at least one retaining element 6.

[0064] Fig.Figure 1 shows a species protection system 5 comprising a species protection fence 1, which is formed from a flexible, sheet-like plastic fabric and is arranged by means of three different retaining elements 6: posts, rope, and ground anchors. The species protection fence 1 is divided into a lower section 2 and an upper section 3. The lower section 2 has a printed design on its front side. The design depicts ground-level motifs in the form of plants, grasses, and a pile of felled tree trunks, allowing the species protection fence to blend visually into a natural, forest-like environment. The upper section 3 features a visual signal element on its front side, designed as an elongated, horizontal stripe that clearly contrasts with the rest of the plastic fabric. The upper section 3 has several fastening elements 4, which are designed as eyelets.A rope is threaded through the eyelets, extending along the length of the species protection fence and forming one of the retaining elements 6. The rope serves to tension and secure the plastic fabric panel. The species protection fence 1 is further supported laterally by the posts and additionally fixed close to the ground in the lower section 2 by means of a ground anchor, thus ensuring the fence's stability even at the bottom. Together, the species protection fence 1, the rope, the post, and the ground anchor (as retaining elements 6) form a species protection system 5 for the erectable demarcation of a protected area in a near-natural environment. Reference sign 1 species protection fence 2 lower section 3 upper section 4 Fastening element 5 species protection system 6 retaining element

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