Simplified enclosure structure

Abstract

An enclosure structure comprising at least two posts and at least one partition plate, wherein the at least one partition plate is configured to extend between two mutually adjacently positioned posts of the at least two posts in order to form a partition between the two mutually adjacently positioned posts, wherein the at least two posts and the at least one partition plate are manufactured from a stone material, such as cement-bonded material, characterized in that the enclosure structure comprises a fastening agent which is configured to fasten the at least one partition plate to each of the at least two posts, wherein the fastening agent consists of a modified silane polymer adhesive.

Description

Field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of enclosure structures, and more particularly to techniques for fastening partition plates to posts in such structures.Background

[0002] Fences and enclosures are traditionally constructed with mesh, metal mounting profiles and screws and bolts. Existing fences also frequently make use of columns with a U-shaped slot in which plates can be placed. These fences and enclosures are not always aesthetically attractive.

[0003] The use of mesh, metal mounting profiles and screws and bolts requires a great deal of labour and skill for constructing a strong and durable enclosure. These methods are moreover not always aesthetically attractive, which may result in the enclosure having a negative effect on the appearance of the surrounding area.Summary of the invention

[0004] The present invention has for its object to provide a simpler and more aesthetically pleasing solution for constructing enclosures and fences.

[0005] According to a first aspect, an enclosure structure is provided. The enclosure structure comprises at least two posts and at least one partition plate, wherein the at least one partition plate is configured to extend between two mutually adjacently positioned posts of the at least two posts in order to form a partition between the two mutually adjacently positioned posts. The at least two posts and the at least one partition plate are manufactured from a stone material, such as cement-bonded material. The enclosure structure comprises a fastening agent which is configured to fasten the at least one partition plate to each of the at least two posts. The fastening agent consists of a modified silane polymer adhesive. The advantages hereof are that constructing an enclosure or fence can now be done much simpler and faster, without the need for a great deal of skill or complex fastening methods. The use of stone material, such as cement-bonded material, furthermore provides for a more durable and stronger enclosure. The use of modified silane polymer adhesive as fastening agent produces an aesthetically more attractive result because there are no visible screws and bolts. This makes it possible to build an enclosure which is suitable for the surrounding area and the landscape without being detrimental to the aesthetics of the surrounding area.

[0006] The at least one partition plate is preferably fastened to the posts only with the modified silane polymer adhesive. An advantage is hereby achieved in that the adhesive provides a very strong adhesion. Hereby, the chances of the posts coming loose are reduced and less maintenance is required. This method moreover provides aesthetic advantages because no visible fastening means are needed and a seamless appearance is created. The use of the modified silane polymer adhesive also increases the durability of the structure in that the adhesive is able to withstand different weather conditions and temperature fluctuations. The enclosure structure hereby remains in good condition for longer and maintenance is required less frequently, which is cost-effective in the long term.

[0007] Each post of the at least two posts preferably comprises a first stop, which first stop is arranged at a predetermined distance from a first outer end of each post and comprises a stop surface which is directed toward a second outer end lying opposite the first outer end. Using the stop to hold the partition plate in place prevents the partition plate from shifting or moving vertically. Hereby, the safety of the enclosure structure is increased and less maintenance is required.

[0008] The first outer end of each post is preferably configured to be arranged in the ground. Arranging the first outer end of each post in the ground increases the stability and strength of the enclosure structure. This prevents the enclosure structure from falling over or moving, and contributes to a safer environment. An advantage of the first outer end of each post being configured to be arranged in the ground is that it makes the structure better able to withstand different weather conditions and external forces. Hereby, the enclosure structure remains in good condition for longer and less maintenance is required.

[0009] The at least one partition plate is preferably arranged on a first side of the at least two posts and at least one partition plate is arranged on a second side of the at least two posts, wherein the second side lies opposite the first side. An advantage of using partition plates on both sides of the enclosure structure is that it makes the structure better able to withstand different weather conditions and external forces. Hereby, the enclosure structure remains in good condition for longer and less maintenance is required. In addition, it contributes to the aesthetic appearance of the enclosure structure in that the partition plates provide for a uniform appearance on both sides of the enclosure.

[0010] Each post of the at least two posts preferably further comprises a second stop, wherein the first stop is arranged on a first side of each post of the at least two posts, and wherein the second stop is arranged on the second side of the post at the position of the first stop and comprises a stop surface which is directed toward a second outer end of the post lying opposite the first outer end. The use of the stop contributes to preventing vertical movement or shifting of the partition plate. By using the stop to hold the partition plate in place the partition plate is held in place better and remains in place more firmly. This increases the safety of the enclosure structure.

[0011] A length of the at least one partition plate preferably defines a centre-to-centre distance between two posts of the at least two posts. A centre-to-centre distance is the distance between the centre of two posts of the enclosure structure. Adapting the length of the partition plate to the centre-to-centre distance between the posts creates a uniform and aesthetically attractive appearance of the enclosure structure. This contributes to the appearance of the surrounding area and can contribute to a positive perception of the surroundings. An advantage of adapting the length of the partition plate to the centre-to-centre distance between the posts is that it makes the enclosure structure better able to withstand different weather conditions and external forces. Hereby, the enclosure structure remains in good condition for longer and less maintenance is required. Additionally, it contributes to the safety of the surrounding area in that the partition plate remains in place better and the risk of damage to the enclosure structure is reduced.

[0012] Each post preferably has one or more recesses. The recesses in the posts provide a number of technical advantages. Firstly, the recesses make the posts lighter, which results in them being easier to handle and less manpower being required when placing the enclosure structure. Secondly, the recesses contribute to an improved ventilation and drainage of the enclosure structure. This prevents water from accumulating in the structure, which could result in damage to and adverse effects on the enclosure structure.

[0013] According to a further aspect, a method for constructing an enclosure structure is provided, comprising at least two posts and at least one first partition plate, the method consisting of the following steps: Placing the at least two posts at a predetermined centre-to-centre distance from each other; Glueing the at least one partition plate onto the at least two posts in order to fasten the at least one partition plate to the two posts.

[0014] The method preferably further comprises of fastening at least one second partition plate to a side of the at least two posts lying opposite the at least one first partition plate, wherein the fastening consists of glueing the at least one second partition plate to the side of the at least two posts lying opposite the at least one first partition plate.Brief description of the figures

[0015] The above stated and other advantageous features and objects of the invention will become more apparent, and the invention better understood, on the basis of the following detailed description when read in combination with the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a fencing structure according to an exemplary embodiment.Detailed embodiments

[0016] The following detailed description relates to determined specific embodiments. The teaching hereof can however be applied in different ways. The same or similar elements are designated in the drawings with the same reference numerals.

[0017] The present invention will be described with reference to specific embodiments. The invention is however not limited thereto, but solely by the claims.

[0018] As used here, the singular forms "a" and "the" comprise both the singular and plural references, unless clearly indicated otherwise by the context.

[0019] The terms "comprising", "comprises" and "composed of" as used here are synonymous with "including". The terms "comprising", "comprises" and "composed of" when referring to stated components, elements or method steps also comprise embodiments which "consist of" the components, elements or method steps. If the term "consist of" is used, there are no features other than those following the wording used.

[0020] The terms first, second, third and so on are further used in the description and in the claims to distinguish between similar elements and not necessarily to describe a sequential or chronological order, unless this is specified. It will be apparent that the thus used terms are mutually interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and that the embodiments of the invention described here can operate in an order other than described or illustrated here.

[0021] Reference in this specification to "one embodiment", "an embodiment", "some aspects", "an aspect" or "one aspect" means that a determined feature, structure or characteristic described with reference to the embodiment or aspect is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. The manifestations of the sentences "in one embodiment", "in an embodiment", "some aspects", "an aspect" or "one aspect" in different places in this specification thus do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment or aspects. As will be apparent to a skilled person in this field, the specific features, structures or characteristics can further be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or aspects. Although some embodiments or aspects described here comprise some but no other features which are included in other embodiments or aspects, combinations of features of different embodiments or aspects are further intended to fall within the context of the invention and to form different embodiments or aspects, as would be apparent to the skilled person. In the appended claims all features of the claimed embodiments or aspects can for instance be used in any combination.

[0022] The same or similar elements are designated in the drawing with the same reference numerals.

[0023] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a fencing structure 100 according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0024] The enclosure structure 100 comprises at least two posts 110. Figure 1 shows seven posts 110. It will be apparent that the enclosure structure 100 is not limited to a specific number of posts 110, but that the number of posts 110 can vary depending on the needs and wishes of the user. The enclosure structure 100 can for instance be formed with more or fewer than seven posts 110, for instance eight, ten or three posts 110.

[0025] The enclosure structure 100 also comprises at least one partition plate 120. The at least one partition plate 120 is configured to extend between two mutually adjacently positioned posts 110 of the at least two posts 110 in order to form a partition between the two mutually adjacently positioned posts 110. In the figures five partition plates 120 are in each case arranged between two posts 110. The at least two posts 110 and the at least one partition plate 120 are manufactured from a stone material, such as cement-bonded material. Examples of a stone material are concrete partition plates 120, wherein large concrete plates are used to partition off different parts of an area, such as car parks, gardens and playgrounds. Another example is calcium silicate partition plates 120. These plates are made of calcium silicate and are used to partition off gardens and other outdoor spaces. Yet another example is a natural stone partition plate 120. These plates are made of natural stone such as granite, slate, sandstone or quartzite. They are durable and have a natural appearance, making them suitable for use in gardens and other outdoor spaces. It is noted that the above stated examples are not limitative and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Other types of stone material, such as cement-bonded material, can also be used to make partition plates 120 which can be used in the enclosure structure 100.

[0026] The enclosure structure 100 comprises a fastening agent which is configured to fasten the at least one partition plate 120 to each of the at least two posts 110. The fastening agent consists of a modified silane polymer adhesive. When the term "consist of" is used in the context of the patent application, this means that the fastening agent for the enclosure structure 100 consists exclusively of said modified silane polymer adhesive. No mechanical components are present for fastening the partition plate 120 to the posts 110 other than the fastening agent. The advantages hereof are that constructing an enclosure or fence can now be done much simpler and faster, without the need for a great deal of skill or complex fastening methods. The use of stone material, such as cement-bonded material, furthermore provides for a more durable and stronger enclosure. The use of modified silane polymer adhesive as fastening agent produces an aesthetically more attractive result because there are no visible screws and bolts. This makes it possible to build an enclosure which is suitable for the surrounding area and the landscape without being detrimental to the aesthetics of the surrounding area. The at least one partition plate 120 is preferably fastened to the posts 110 only with the modified silane polymer adhesive. This results in an advantage in that the adhesive provides a very strong adhesion, resulting in a lower risk of the partition plate 120 coming loose and in less maintenance being required. This method moreover provides aesthetic advantages because no visible fastening agent are needed and a seamless appearance is created. The use of the modified silane polymer adhesive also increases the durability of the structure in that the adhesive is able to withstand different weather conditions and temperature fluctuations. This results in a longer lifespan of the enclosure structure 100 and less maintenance in the long term, this being cost-effective. Examples of suitable modified silane polymers that can be used as fastening agent in the enclosure structure 100 are, among others: vinyltrimethoxysilane, methacryloxy methyltrimethoxysilane, glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane, aminopropyltriethoxysilane.

[0027] Figure 1 further shows that each post 110 of the at least two posts 110 can comprise a first stop 111. In the context of the enclosure structure 100 a stop refers to a part of the post 110 of the enclosure structure 100 designed to prevent the partition plate 120 from shifting vertically. The stop can take different forms, depending on the application and the design of the structure. In the case of the enclosure structure 100 a stop could for instance be a raised edge or a protrusion extending from the post 110 and holding the partition plate 120 in place. The first stop 111 is arranged at a predetermined distance from a first outer end of each post 110 and comprises a stop surface which is directed toward a second outer end lying opposite the first outer end. The distance between the first stop 111 and the first outer end of the post 110 allows a portion of the post 110 to be arranged in the ground. This can help make the post 110 stronger and more stable, because a part of the post 110 is under the ground and is thereby anchored better. The stop surface which is directed toward the opposite outer end of the post 110 ensures that the partition plate 120 is held in place and prevents it from shifting or moving. Arranging the first outer end of each post 110 in the ground has several advantages. In addition to the increased stability and strength of the enclosure structure 100, it also has the result that the structure is better able to withstand weather conditions and other external forces, such as wind or vibrations. Arranging the post 110 in the ground can moreover contribute to the aesthetics of the enclosure structure 100 because it makes the post 110 less noticeable and makes it blend into the surrounding area more.

[0028] Figure 1 further shows that the at least one partition plate 120 is arranged on a first side of the at least two posts 110 and that at least one partition plate 120 is arranged on a second side of the at least two posts 110, wherein the second side lies opposite the first side. The use of partition plates 120 on both sides of the enclosure structure 100 has several advantages. Firstly, it ensures that the structure becomes better able to withstand different weather conditions and external forces because the partition plates 120 provide an additional protective layer on both sides of the enclosure. Hereby, the enclosure structure 100 remains in good condition for longer and less maintenance is required. In addition, it contributes to the aesthetic appearance of enclosure structure 100 because the partition plates 120 provide for a uniform appearance on both sides of the enclosure. In order to support the at least one partition plate 120 on the second side each post 110 of the at least two posts 110 can further comprise a second stop 112, wherein the first stop 111 is arranged on a first side of each post 110 of the at least two posts 110, and wherein the second stop 112 is arranged on the second side of the post 110 at the position of the first stop 111 and comprises a stop surface which is directed toward a second outer end of the post 110 lying opposite the first outer end.

[0029] Figure 1 further shows that the length of the partition plate 120 is preferably adapted to the centre-to-centre distance between the posts 110 of the enclosure structure 100. The centre-to-centre distance is the distance between the centre of two posts 110 of the enclosure structure 100. Adapting the length of the partition plate 120 to this centre-to-centre distance creates a uniform and aesthetically attractive appearance of the enclosure structure 100. This contributes to the appearance of the surrounding area and can contribute to a positive perception of the surroundings. An example hereof is an enclosure structure 100 around a playground. Adapting the length of the partition plate 120 to the centre-to-centre distance between the posts 110 results in a uniform appearance of the enclosure structure 100. This can contribute to a safer and more pleasant environment for children to play in. Another advantage of adapting the length of the partition plate 120 to the centre-to-centre distance between the posts 110 is that it makes the enclosure structure 100 better able to withstand different weather conditions and external forces. Hereby, the enclosure structure 100 remains in good condition for longer and less maintenance is required. Additionally, it contributes to the safety of the surrounding area in that the partition plate 120 remains in place better and the risk of damage to the enclosure structure 100 is reduced.

[0030] Each post 110 preferably has one or more recesses (not shown). The recesses in the posts 110 provide a number of technical advantages. Firstly, the recesses make the posts 110 lighter, which results in them being easier to handle and less manpower being required when placing the enclosure structure 100. Secondly, the recesses contribute to an improved ventilation and drainage of the enclosure structure 100. This prevents water from accumulating in the structure, which could result in damage to and adverse effects on the enclosure structure 100.

[0031] Further also provided is a method for constructing an enclosure structure comprising at least two posts and at least one first partition plate. The method is not shown. The method consists of the following steps: Placing the at least two posts at a predetermined centre-to-centre distance from each other; and glueing the at least one partition plate onto the at least two posts in order to fasten the at least one partition plate to the two posts. The method can further comprise of fastening at least one second partition plate to a side of the at least two posts lying opposite the at least one first partition plate, wherein the fastening consists of glueing the at least one second partition plate to the side of the at least two posts lying opposite the at least one first partition plate.

[0032] The skilled person will appreciate on the basis of the above description that the invention can be embodied in different ways and on the basis of different principles. The invention is not limited here to the above described embodiments. The above described embodiments and the figures are purely illustrative and serve only to increase understanding of the invention. The invention is not therefore limited to the embodiments described herein, but is defined in the claims.

Claims

1. An enclosure structure comprising at least two posts and at least one partition plate, wherein the at least one partition plate is configured to extend between two mutually adjacently positioned posts of the at least two posts in order to form a partition between the two mutually adjacently positioned posts, wherein the at least two posts and the at least one partition plate are manufactured from a stone material, such as cement-bonded material, characterized in that the enclosure structure comprises a fastening agent which is configured to fasten the at least one partition plate to each of the at least two posts, wherein the fastening agent consists of a modified silane polymer adhesive.

2. The enclosure structure according to claim 1, wherein the at least one partition plate is fastened to the posts only with the modified silane polymer adhesive.

3. The enclosure structure according to any one of the foregoing claims, wherein each post of the at least two posts comprises a first stop, which first stop is arranged at a predetermined distance from a first outer end of each post and comprises a stop surface which is directed toward a second outer end lying opposite the first outer end.

4. The enclosure structure according to the foregoing claim, wherein the first outer end is configured to be arranged in the ground.

5. The enclosure structure according to any one of the foregoing claims, wherein at least one partition plate is arranged on a first side of the at least two posts and at least one partition plate is arranged on a second side of the at least two posts, wherein the second side lies opposite the first side.

6. The enclosure structure according to the foregoing claim, wherein each post of the at least two posts further comprises a second stop, wherein the first stop is arranged on a first side of each post of the at least two posts, and wherein the second stop is arranged on the second side of the post at the position of the first stop and comprises a stop surface which is directed toward a second outer end of the post lying opposite the first outer end.

7. The enclosure structure according to any one of the foregoing claims, wherein a length of the at least one partition plate defines a centre-to-centre distance between two posts of the at least two posts.

8. The enclosure structure according to any one of the foregoing claims, wherein each post has one or more recesses.

9. A method for constructing an enclosure structure comprising at least two posts and at least one first partition plate, the method consisting of the following steps: - Placing the at least two posts at a predetermined centre-to-centre distance from each other; - Glueing the at least one partition plate onto the at least two posts in order to fasten the at least one partition plate to the two posts.

10. The method according to claim 9, further comprising of fastening at least one second partition plate to a side of the at least two posts lying opposite the at least one first partition plate, wherein the fastening consists of glueing the at least one second partition plate to the side of the at least two posts lying opposite the at least one first partition plate.

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