Electric fence post

Abstract

The invention relates to an electric fence post extending between a first end and a second end. The first end comprises a pointed portion (23) for driving into the ground. Between the first and second ends is a main portion, the post (20) comprising at least one support means (22) disposed along said main portion. The support means (22) have a cavity adapted to support a conductive element (24). The front of said cavity is partially closed by two edges which define a slot configured for inserting a conductive element (24) into said cavity. This element has a cross-section with at least five prongs. Figure for the abstract: Fig. 4

Description

Title of the invention: Electric fence post Technical field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a post for an electric fence. It is particularly applicable to farmers, cattle breeders, sheep breeders, poultry breeders, horse breeders...

[0002] An electric fence is primarily intended to delimit agricultural pastures in order to protect animals while preserving the green spaces it encloses. Furthermore, it offers various applications in other sectors such as construction site marking, motorsports fields, golf courses, and endurance horse races, among others. Previous technique

[0003] Various types of agricultural fence posts and marking systems are available on the market, but each has defects which may be more or less significant.

[0004] First, fiberglass fence posts are characterized by their high cost, fragility, and tendency to break easily. This poses a significant risk of cuts during installation for both the end user and livestock in the long term. Although partially recyclable, the fiberglass recycling process remains expensive and energy-intensive.

[0005] Next, the chestnut wood stake is a commonly used option. Despite its advantages, its cost remains high, and additional fixing accessories are often required for threading wires and tapes. Furthermore, its recyclability is possible but only partially feasible, and the product itself is susceptible to rot, with an average lifespan of approximately 8 years.

[0006] The composite stake, whether round or cross-shaped, is a solution distinguished by its high cost. Like the wooden stake, additional fixing accessories are often required. However, it is recyclable.

[0007] Finally, steel fence posts are susceptible to corrosion, which reduces their lifespan and necessitates regular replacement. Furthermore, they are expensive to purchase and very energy-intensive to manufacture. Their weight makes installation more difficult, requiring greater physical effort. In addition, being electrically conductive, they pose a risk to animals and people, necessitating the addition of insulating accessories for the passage of wires and tapes.

[0008] Some stakes are made of PVC. PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is a thermoplastic polymer widely used in many industrial fields. It is manufactured from vinyl chloride monomers by polymerization. PVC present in the form of a white powder which can be transformed by various manufacturing processes, such as extrusion, injection molding or calendering.

[0009] PVC is valued for its many qualities, including its resistance to moisture, chemicals, corrosion, and impact. It is also easy to work with, shape, and assemble, making it a versatile material used in the manufacture of many products. Presentation of the invention

[0010] The present invention aims to remedy these drawbacks with a completely innovative approach.

[0011] More specifically, the invention aims to ensure the quality of the finished product, thereby guaranteeing its durability and reliability. The strength of the stake is also an essential criterion to consider, as it ensures its ability to withstand environmental stresses and various uses. Furthermore, the efficiency of the object is a key element, as it must fulfill its function optimally while minimizing the resources required.

[0012] Furthermore, ease of implementation is a major issue, as it influences the practicality and cost-effectiveness of using the product. Finally, the question of recycling is crucial to ensuring responsible resource management and reducing environmental impact.

[0013] These objectives, as well as others which will appear subsequently, are achieved, using an electric fence post, extending between a first end and a second end, the first end having a pointed portion, intended to be driven into the ground, between the first and second ends there is a main portion, said post having at least one support means arranged along said main portion, said support means having a cavity suitable for supporting a conductive element, the front of said cavity being partially closed by two rims which define between them a slot configured for the placement of a conductive element in said cavity, notable in that it has a section having at least five branches.

[0014] Thanks to these provisions, the stake improves the performance and durability of electric fences.

[0015] First, the design of the post with a pointed portion facilitates its insertion into the ground, thus ensuring a solid and reliable fixing. This guarantees that the fence remains firmly in place, even in difficult soil conditions, thereby reducing the risk of damage or malfunctions.

[0016] Secondly, the presence of support means arranged along the main portion of the stake offers a practical solution for fixing the conductive elements of The fencing, such as wires or tapes. The cavity in these support means provides a secure space to hold these elements in place, thus reducing the risk of failure or breakage of the fencing system.

[0017] Third, the cavity configuration with two partially closed edges and a slot for inserting the conductive element provides an effective mechanism for firmly securing the element in place while facilitating its installation. This ensures a secure and reliable connection between the post and the conductive element, thus guaranteeing optimal electrical conductivity throughout the fence.

[0018] Finally, the post section, having at least five branches, reinforces the post's stability and strength, effectively distributing the loads exerted on it. This allows the post to better withstand external forces such as wind, impacts, or pressure exerted by animals, thus ensuring the long-term integrity and functionality of the electric fence.

[0019] The invention is advantageously implemented according to the embodiments and variants set out below, which are to be considered individually or according to any technically operative combination.

[0020] In one embodiment, each edge of the stake has a chamfer.

[0021] The chamfers on the edges of the stake reduce sharp edges, thus minimizing the risk of injury during handling or installation of the stake. This improves user safety and reduces the risk of damage to surrounding equipment or materials.

[0022] The chamfers on the edges of the stake facilitate its insertion into the ground. By reducing frictional resistance, the chamfers allow the stake to penetrate the ground more easily, simplifying the installation process and reducing the need for special tools or equipment.

[0023] In one embodiment, said stake has a groove made by milling a radius between 4 and 8 mm, at a distance between 2 and 8 cm preferably between 2.5 and 4.5 cm from the second end.

[0024] The presence of the groove provides a dedicated space for positioning the conductive element, such as a wire or ribbon, at a specific distance from the second end of the stake. This ensures that the conductive element is held securely and stably along the stake, thus reducing the risk of unwanted movement or detachment.

[0025] The groove protects the conductive element from damage caused by excessive friction or mechanical stress. By keeping it inside the groove, the conductive element is less likely to be damaged by external elements such as weather, animals, or human activities, thus extending its service life.

[0026] In one embodiment, the length of the tip portion is between 15 and 5 cm, preferably between 10 and 8 cm.

[0027] In one embodiment, between the first end and the second end, in the center of the stake there is a through hole.

[0028] In one embodiment, the length of the cavity suitable for supporting a conductive element is between 2 and 5 cm, preferably between 3 and 4 cm.

[0029] In one embodiment, said stake is made of recycled plastic and by extrusion.

[0030] Thus, recycling plastic reduces the amount of plastic waste ending up in landfills or the environment, thereby contributing to the fight against pollution. By using recycled plastic, we reduce our dependence on natural resources such as oil, which is necessary for the manufacture of virgin plastic. This helps to preserve the planet's non-renewable resources. Manufacturing plastic from recycled materials generally requires less energy than producing virgin plastic. This leads to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption.

[0031] In one embodiment, the slot is oblique, with respect to a longitudinal axis and to the transverse plane of said stake, at an angle between 35° and 75°. Brief description of the figures

[0032] Other advantages, purposes and features of the present invention will become apparent from the following description, given for explanatory purposes and in no way as a limitation, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0033] Fig. 1 represents a diagram of a cross-section of the stake according to an example of embodiment;

[0034] Fig. 2 represents a perspective view of the upper part of the stake according to an example of embodiment;

[0035] Fig. 3 represents a perspective view of the lower part of the stake according to an example of embodiment;

[0036] Fig. 4 represents a perspective view of the stake according to an example of embodiment;

[0037] Fig. 5 represents another perspective view of the stake according to an example of embodiment;

[0038] Fig. 6 represents another perspective view of the stake according to an example of embodiment;

[0039] Fig. 7 represents a front view of the placement of two stakes according to an example of embodiment;

[0040] Fig. 8 represents a front view of the placement of two stakes according to another embodiment. Description of the implementation methods

[0041] Fig. 1 shows a diagram of a cross-section of stake 20.

[0042] The embodiment of the stake according to the invention used to make a fence is generally designated by 20.

[0043] The shape resembles a five-pointed star. The star's shape is rounded and has rounded edges.

[0044] Each branch has a part that is thinner than its tip.

[0045] This shape allows for better robustness of the stake 20.

[0046] The five-pointed shape is designed to maximize its strength and resistance to torsional stress over time. Unlike conventional 20 stakes (sometimes in a four-pointed cross shape) which can easily twist and bend under the effects of weather and natural elements, this specific shape offers increased robustness. Each point of the star acts as a reinforcement, effectively distributing the stresses exerted on the 20 stake. This uniform distribution of force helps to minimize unwanted deformations and maintain the structural integrity of the 20 stake over time.

[0047] In addition, the five-pronged design provides extra stability, reducing the risk of tipping or misalignment even in harsh environmental conditions. This increased resistance to torsion and external forces ensures the extended durability of the 20 post, making it a reliable and economical choice for fencing and marking applications requiring long-term performance.

[0048] Naturally, the invention is described above by way of example. It is understood that a person skilled in the art is able to carry out different embodiments of the invention without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0049] Fig. 2 shows a perspective view of the upper part of stake 20.

[0050] The second end is visible in this figure. A groove 21, which was formed by a milling step, is visible. This groove 21 is used to position a conductive element 24 by, for example, turning it around.

[0051] A support means 22 is also visible. The support means 22 having a cavity suitable for supporting a conductive element 24 or a conductive ribbon.

[0052] The length of the cavity suitable for supporting a conductive element 24 is between 2 and 5 cm, preferably between 3 and 4 cm. According to one example, the length is 3.5 cm.

[0053] The front of the cavity is partially closed by two rims which define between them a slot configured for the placement of a conductive element 24 in the cavity.

[0054] According to one example, the slot is oblique, with respect to a longitudinal axis and to the transverse plane of said stake 20, at an angle between 35° and 75°, preferably 45°

[0055] Fig. 3 shows a perspective view of the lower part of stake 20.

[0056] The figure shows the first end and shows a portion of the tip 23, intended to be stuck in the ground.

[0057] The length of the tip portion 23 is between 15 and 5 cm, preferably between 10 and 8 cm. According to one example, the length is 9 cm.

[0058] Fig. 4 shows a perspective view of stake 20.

[0059] This figure incorporates certain elements of a stake 20 with a cavity 22 described above.

[0060] This view shows the whole of the stake 20 and has a length between 0.6m and 1.8m.

[0061] The example shows a stake 20 having a length of 1170mm.

[0062] There are several standard lengths in mm: 600, 800, 1000, 1170, 1370, 1570, 1770.

[0063] Fig. 5 shows another perspective view of stake 20.

[0064] This figure incorporates certain elements of a stake 20 described above.

[0065] This figure shows two cavities 22 spaced apart. The space between the two is approximately 300 and 500 mm, preferably 380 mm.

[0066] Fig. 6 shows another perspective view of stake 20.

[0067] This figure incorporates certain elements of a stake 20 described above.

[0068] This figure shows three cavities 22 spaced apart from each other. The space between each is approximately 300 and 500 mm, preferably 380 mm.

[0069] Fig. 7 shows a front view of the placement of two stakes 20.

[0070] For installation, it is necessary to drive the 20 stakes into the ground at regular intervals depending on the length of the fence and the required strength.

[0071] Stakes 20 are driven into the ground at a distance from each other and connected to each other by a conductive element 24.

[0072] Next, the conductive elements can be fixed to the posts 20 using suitable supports. The conductive elements must be properly tensioned and evenly spaced to ensure the effectiveness of the electric fence.

[0073] The cross-section of each stake 20 has a shape having five branches or five transverse arms.

[0074] One of the transverse arms points transversely to the direction of the conducting elements, and carries at least one support means 22.

[0075] The head of the stake 20 has a milling on which the conductive element 24 is positioned, it is possible to make a turn, then to connect it to the next stake 20.

[0076] The conductive elements are connected to a suitable power supply, such as a generator or a mains socket. Conductive element 24 is connected to a battery to create an electric fence.

[0077] To install these stakes 20 in the ground, the user must drive each stake 20 into the ground until the profile reaches a depth of approximately 250 mm, thus ensuring a solid and stable base. The optimal spacing between the stakes 20 should be between 2500 mm and 3000 mm, offering an ideal balance between stability and material economy.

[0078] The significant advantage of these 20 posts is that they do not require the use of additional accessories, which represents both time and money savings for the farmer. Unlike other fencing systems that require the purchase and installation of additional fastening devices, these 20 posts simplify the installation process by eliminating the need for extra parts.

[0079] Once the 20 posts are in place, the user can easily position their conductor wire on the upper milling of each post. Then, simply wrap the conductor wire around the post approximately twice to ensure a secure fastening. This simple and effective method allows the conductor wire to be quickly and efficiently secured, thus ensuring a reliable and functional fence for the needs of the farm operation.

[0080] Fig. 8 shows a front view of the placement of two stakes 20.

[0081] In this figure, which includes the elements described above, two conductive elements are positioned in the support means 22. Each support means 22 allows a part of the conductive element 24 to be held. The setup is quick.

[0082] Regarding the material, by considering an efficient recycling process, for example via a grinding process, it becomes possible to recover the raw material for future reuse, thus contributing to the sustainability and circularity of the product.

[0083] It is emphasized that all features, as they are apparent to a person skilled in the art from the present description, drawings and attached features, even if in practice they have only been described in relation to other specific features, both individually and in any combinations, can be combined with other features or groups of features disclosed herein, provided that this has not been expressly excluded or that technical circumstances make such combinations impossible or meaningless. List of reference signs

[0084] [Tables 1] References Designations 20 stake 21 groove 22 support means 23 tip portion 24 conductive element

Claims

Demands

1. Electric fence post, extending between a first end and a second end, the first end having a pointed portion (23), intended to be driven into the ground, between the first and second ends is a main portion, said post (20) having at least one support means (22) arranged along said main portion, said support means (22) having a cavity suitable for supporting a conductive element (24), the front of said cavity being partially closed by two rims which define between them a slot configured for the placement of a conductive element (24) in said cavity, characterized in that it has a section having at least five branches.

2. Stake according to claim 1, wherein each edge of the stake (20) has a chamfer.

3. Stake according to claim 1, wherein said stake (20) has a groove (21) made by milling a radius of between 4 and 8 mm, at a distance of between 2 and 8 cm preferably between 2.5 and 4.5 cm from the second end.

4. Stake according to claim 1, wherein the length of the tip portion (23) is between 15 and 5 cm, preferably between 10 and 8 cm.

5. Stake according to claim 1, wherein between the first end and the second end, at the center of the stake (20) is a through hole.

6. Stake according to claim 1, wherein the length of the cavity suitable for supporting a conductive element (24) is between 2 and 5 cm, preferably between 3 and 4 cm.

7. Stake according to claim 1, wherein said stake (20) is made of recycled plastic and by extrusion.

8. Stake according to claim 1, wherein the slot is oblique, with respect to a longitudinal axis and to the transverse plane of said stake (20), at an angle between 35° and 75°.

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