Boundary edging system

Abstract

A boundary edging systems comprising at least one edging panel 110 forming at least part of a boundary between first and second areas, the edging panel having a pair of longitudinal edges in a height

Description

Field of the Invention The present invention relates to boundary edging systems and particularly, although not exclusively, to 5 edging systems for raised garden beds as well as for commercial planters. It also relates to kits of parts for such boundary edging systems, and methods of assembly of such boundary edging systems. Background Developments in urban planning and horticultural design have produced an increasing demand for 10 boundary edging systems, both in a smaller scale for garden planning as well as larger scale applications in urban and commercial areas. Boundary edging systems may define a boundary between, for example, grass on one side and paving on the other, and can include raised garden or soil beds. Alternatively, boundary edging systems can divide up two areas, such as paving and gravel. Raised garden beds are also known as planters. Boundary edging systems are typically defined by their boundary walls, which 15 must withstand the load of the soil and / or other material housed within them. Whilst in principle a boundary (e.g. for a planter, or to provide a divide between paving and gravel) could be created using a wall of brick or similar, constructing a boundary in this way is labour intensive and may not offer the desired aesthetic. It is known to provide planter edging systems that utilise a series of steel edging panels coupled end-to-20 end, either to form a closed loop that encloses a planting area, or to extend along a boundary path to provide a boundary between first and second areas. Examples of such a planter edging system are discussed in GB2614820A. In these systems, straight or curved planter walls are joined in an end-to-end fashion to provide curved planter areas or straight-sided planter areas. Such planter edging systems can be erected in a fraction of the time taken to construct a brick wall and can provide a substantially smooth, 25 continuous outer wall for a clean, modern aesthetic. The present invention has been devised in view of a general desire to provide improved boundary edging systems. Summary of the Invention 30 The present inventors have realised that a significant problem with known boundary edging systems is that it is not possible to provide a single system that is suitable for use in providing a boundary for both curved and straight-sided areas. This is because curved boundary edging panels possess increased resistance to deformation from the forces exerted on them by the contents of the planting area (e.g. the weight of soil, gravel, or other contents of the planting area). However, equivalent panels which are 35 deployed in a straight (i.e. uncurved) manner are more readily deformed and are less able to resist forces 23 04 25 exerted on them. This problem is particularly exacerbated for boundary edging systems for use in forming raised beds / planting areas in view of the weight of soil etc. which must be retained by the boundary edging panel, especially for panels having a height of 300 mm or more. In view of this, in known systems it is typically necessary to use different boundary edging panels to provide the boundary 5 of a straight-sided area as compared with those used to provide the boundary of a curved-sided area: typically the thickness of panel required to provide the necessary mechanical strength for a straight-sided boundary will be too thick to be ready bent by a user to form a curved boundary. Accordingly, in a first aspect, the present invention provides a boundary edging system comprising: at least one edging panel configured to form at least part of a boundary between first and second 10 areas, the edging panel having a pair of longitudinal edges in a height direction connected by side edges in a length direction; and at least one stiffening rib configured for removable attachment to the edging panel such that the stiffening rib extends along at least part of the edging panel in the length direction, wherein the stiffening rib has an L-shaped cross-section, comprising first and second rib portions arranged substantially 15 perpendicularly to each other. The present inventors have found that provision of boundary edging systems comprising edging panels in combination with stiffening members that are removably attachable to respective edging panels of the system offer a number of advantages as compared with known arrangements. In particular, the provision of a removable stiffening rib allows the same edging panel to be used in both straight and curved 20 configurations of the planted edging system. This is in comparison to known arrangements, which, as described above, typically require the use of different edging panels for curved vs straight boundary edging system configurations. Whilst at a minimum boundary edging systems according to the present invention include at least one edging panel and at least one stiffening rib, it will be appreciated that the number of components in the 25 system may be selected as appropriate based on the size and form of the areas to be bounded by the boundary edging system. In some arrangements, the boundary edging system comprises a plurality of edging panels as described above (sometimes referred to as a set of edging panels), and a corresponding plurality of stiffening ribs as described above (sometimes referred to as a set of edging panels). 30 Accordingly, in a second aspect, the present invention provides a kit of parts for a boundary edging system, comprising: a set of edging panels configured to form at least part of a boundary between first and second areas, each edging panel having a pair of longitudinal edges in a depth direction connected by side edges in a length direction, and 35 a corresponding set of stiffening ribs configured for removable attachment to respective edging panels of the set of edging panels such that each stiffening rib extends along at least part of the respective edging panel in the length direction, wherein each stiffening rib has an L-shaped cross-section, comprising first and second rib portions arranged substantially perpendicularly to each other. 23 04 25 In a third aspect, the present invention provides a method of assembly of the boundary edging system of the first aspect, the method comprising: (i) attaching the stiffening rib to the edging panel such that the stiffening rib extends along at least part of an edging panel in the length direction, and arranging the at least one edging panel to form at least part of a boundary of a straight-sided area; or (ii) removing the stiffening rib from the edging panel, and arranging the at least one edging panel to form at least part of a boundary of a curved area. As noted above, the edging panel has a pair of longitudinal edges in a height direction connected by side edges in a length direction. The edging panel may comprise two opposing major surfaces, each respective surface being configured to face the first or the second areas respectively, in use. The first and the second areas may in some arrangements be soil-filled areas (e.g. planting areas), turfed areas, paved areas, or gravelled areas. In some arrangements, the first area may comprise a planting area, and the second area may comprise a paved area. In some arrangements, the first area may comprise a turfed area and the second area may comprise a paved area. In some arrangements, the first area may comprise a paved area and the second area may comprise a soil + gravel filled area. The ground level of the first and second areas may not be equal: in some arrangements one of the first and second areas has a raised ground level relative to that of the second area. For example, the boundary edging system may define the boundary of a raised garden or soil bed. It will be appreciated that these are just a number of exemplary and non-limiting arrangements, and that boundary edging systems according to the present invention may find utility in dividing a wide range of different area types. It is contemplated that the stiffening rib may be configured for removable attachment to the edging panel in a wide variety of ways. Conveniently, in some arrangements, corresponding mating portions may be provided on each of the edging panel and the stiffening rib, whereby the stiffening rib is configured for removable attachment to the edging panel by cooperative engagement of said corresponding mating portions. The corresponding mating portions may comprise at least a first mating portion provided on the stiffening rib, and at least a second mating portion provided on the edging panel. In some arrangements, a plurality of mating portions may be provided on each of the of the edging panel and the stiffening rib. The plurality of mating portions may be approximately equally spaced along the length of the edging panel and the stiffening rib. Providing a plurality of mating portions distributed along the length of the edging panel and the stiffening rib may allow for more secure attachment of the stiffening rib to the edging panel. One of the first and second mating portions may comprise a mating aperture, and the other of the first and second mating portion may comprise a mating projection, the mating projection being configured for engagement with (e.g. insertion through) the mating aperture to provide for connection of the mating portions. Whilst other arrangements for providing removable attachment of the stiffening rib to the edging panel are contemplated, it has been found that making use of projection + aperture arrangement allows for a mechanically simple attachment mechanism that also allows the component parts of the boundary 23 04 25 edging system to have a simple structure (e.g. be formed from sheet metal, as discussed in further detail below). In some arrangements, a mating projection may be provided on the edging panel, and a mating aperture may be provided on the stiffening rib. In other arrangements, a mating projection may be provided on the stiffening rib, and a mating aperture may be provided on the edging panel. Where the corresponding mating portions respectively comprise a cooperating mating projection and mating aperture, the mating projection may comprise an L-shaped arm portion having a first portion extending in the height direction, and a second portion extending in the length direction. Where the mating projection has an L-shaped form, it may be configured to engage with the mating aperture by insertion of the L-shaped arm portion into the aperture in a first direction (e.g. in the height direction), followed by sliding of the L-shaped arm portion relative to the aperture in a second direction (e.g. sliding in a lateral direction) such that the edge of the aperture is captured by the L-shaped arm portion. The mating aperture may have a width (e.g. a lateral width, in the length direction) which greater than or equal to the width (e.g. lateral width) of the mating projection, such that the mating projection is insertable through the aperture (e.g. in the height direction). In some arrangements, a locking arrangement may be provided to allow for locking of the corresponding mating portions in the attached configuration. In some arrangements, the mating projection may comprise a detent portion which is configured to engage with a locking aperture. Providing a locking arrangement can help to prevent inadvertent detachment of the stiffening rib from the edging panel. In some arrangements, the edging panel comprises a reinforcing hem. This can provide improved mechanical strength to the edging panel. The reinforcing hem may be formed by folding an edge of the edging panel over. This is a mechanical simple way of forming a reinforcing hem. Preferably, the reinforcing hem is formed on at least one side edge of the edging panel (in other words, preferably the reinforcing hem extends along the length direction of the edging panel). The reinforcing hem may extend along part of the respective edge, or along substantially all of the respective edge. Most preferably, the reinforcing hem is formed on the top edge of the edging panel. Most preferably, the reinforcing hem extends along substantially the entire length of the top edge of the edging panel. In some arrangements, the edge may be folded against itself (e.g. folded 180 degrees), such as to double the thickness of the edging panels at the reinforcing hem. In some arrangements, the edge may be folded to provide a U-shaped fold region, such that the reinforcing hem is spaced from a main body of the edging panel by a spacing gap. The spacing gap may have a width (measured between the hem and the main body of the edging panel) in a range of from e.g. 0.5 mm to 5 mm, e.g. in a range of from 0.9 to 3 mm, although the precise value of the width of the spacing gap is not limited to this. In some preferred arrangements, the size of the spacing gap is selected such that the stiffening rib is configured to be at least partially inserted into the spacing gap, when it is attached to the edging panel. In some arrangements, the reinforcing hem may comprise one or more cut-out portions. The cut-out portions may comprise V-shaped cut out portions, which may conveniently also be referred to as notches. 23 04 25 Provision of such cut-out portions on the reinforcing hem may allow for improved ease of bending of the edging panel to form at least part of a boundary of a curved area. A plurality of such cut-out portions may be provided. The cut-out portions may be substantially equally spaced along the length of the reinforcing hem. The shape of the stiffening rib is not particularly limited, and it is contemplated that a wide range of possible forms for the stiffening rib may be suitable, provided that the stiffening rib is configured for removable attachment to the edging panel such that the stiffening rib extends along at least part of the edging panel in the length direction. Preferably, the stiffening rib is configured such that it extends along at least 20% of the length of the edging panel in the length direction when attached to the edging panel, e.g. it may be configured such that it extends for 30% or more, 40% or more, 50% or more, 60% or more, 70% or more, 80% or more,90% or more, or substantially the entire length of the edging panel. Arrangements in which the stiffening rib extends along at least 50% of the length of the edging panel in the length direction when attached to the edging panel can help to provide suitable mechanical performance for the boundary edging system when used to form at least part of a boundary of a straightsided area. It is also contemplated that in some arrangements, a plurality of stiffening ribs could be removably attached to a single edging panel to provide substantially the same technical advantage. In this case, the total cumulative length of the plurality of stiffening ribs may extend along at least 20% of the length of the edging panel in the length direction when the plurality of stiffening ribs are attached to the edging panel, e.g. 30% or more, 40% or more, 50% or more, 60% or more, 70% or more, 80% or more, 90% or more, or substantially the entire length of the edging panel. In some arrangements, the stiffening ribs may have a length in a range of from 300 mm to 2000 mm. In some arrangements, the stiffening rib may be configured to be cut down onsite to a desired length prior to attachment to the edging panel. The stiffening rib may be substantially straight along its longitudinal length. The stiffening rib has a generally L-shaped cross-section (in a cross-section taken perpendicular to the longitudinal extension direction of the stiffening member), comprising first and second rib portions arranged substantially perpendicularly to each other. A stiffening rib having a generally L-shaped cross section may have a greater moment of inertia (and accordingly an improved resistance to bending stresses) as compared with arrangements having different cross-sectional shapes (e.g. square, rectangular or circular cross-sectional forms). In some other arrangements contemplated in the present disclosure it is also contemplated that stiffening ribs having other cross-sectional forms could be used: for example, use of a stiffening rib having an ‘l-shaped’ cross-sectional form is also contemplated. Where the stiffening rib has a generally L-shaped cross-sectional form comprising first and second rib portions arranged substantially perpendicularly to each other, and where the stiffening rib comprises one or more mating portions for attachment to corresponding mating portions of the edging panel, the mating portions may be provided on both the first and second rib portions. For example, a mating aperture may be arranged to extend partially across the first rib portion and partially across the second rib portion. In some arrangements, the stiffening rib may have tapered end portions. This may improve safety of the system for users, by removing sharp corners that may otherwise be present. 23 04 25 The stiffening rib may comprise a single integrally formed component (i.e. the first and second rib portions may be portions of a single integral component). The stiffening rib may be configured for removable attachment to the edging panel near or adjacent to a top edge of the edging panel. That is, the stiffening rib may be configured for removable attachment to the edging panel in a region that is no more than 20% of the height of the edging panel from the top edge ofthe edging panel, or no more than 10% of the height of the edging panel from the top edge of the edging panel. This may allow for suitable mechanical strength ofthe edging panel when assembled for use, whilst allowing for ease of access to the stiffening rib once installed. However, it is also contemplated that in some arrangements, the stiffening rib may be configured for removable attachment to the edging panel at other locations on the edging panel - e.g. in a middle region ofthe edging panel, or near or adjacent to a bottom edge ofthe edging panel. The boundary edging system may further comprise at least one gusset member that is configured to be anchored within the first or second area in use, the gusset member being configured to be attached to the edging panel to hold one or more ofthe edging panels upright. The system may comprise two or more guest members for each edging panel ofthe system. The gusset member(s) may have a main body having a generally triangular form. The gusset member(s) may be configured for attachment to their respective edging panel by any suitable means. In some arrangements, the gusset member(s) may comprise a flange that is configured for attachment to the respective edging panel (e.g. attachment to an inner surface ofthe respective edging panel). Said flange may extend substantially perpendicularly to the main gusset body, such that when the gusset member is attached to the edging panel via the flange, the main body ofthe gusset member extends in a generally perpendicular manner from the edging panel. Provision of such gusset members can provide a convenient mechanism for upright support for edging panels ofthe system. Where the boundary edging system comprises one or more gusset members, the gusset member(s) may be configured to be anchored within the first or second area by a base plate configured to be loaded by the contents ofthe first or second area. The base plate may be integral with the gusset member. The base plate may extend substantially perpendicularly to the main gusset body. The base plate may be configured to be attached / anchored to the ground via a fastening connection, e.g. by use of a C-channel ground fixing post / stake through the gusset into soil, or by use of a ground anchor bolt when connecting to concrete. The gusset member may comprise a mating portion, configured to engage with one or more edging panels and / or one or more stiffening ribs. In a preferred embodiment, the gusset member’s mating portion engages with the mating portions ofthe edging panels and / or the stiffening ribs. Preferably, the gusset member’s mating portion comprises a mating protrusion. Preferably, the gusset member’s mating protrusion is configured to slot into a reinforcing hem ofthe edging panel. The gusset member’s mating protrusion may be further configured to slot into an aperture provided on the stiffening rib. In one particularly preferred arrangement, the gusset member may comprise a mating protrusion which is sized such that, when the stiffening rib is attached to the edging panel by cooperative interaction between 23 04 25 mating projection(s) and mating aperture(s) on the edging panel and stiffening rib respectively, the mating projection on the gusset is insertable into the mating aperture adjacent to the mating projection to lock the mating project and mating aperture in the attached configuration (i.e. by preventing removal of the mating projection from the aperture). The boundary edging system may comprise one or more panel connector members configured to connect a respective pair of edging panel longitudinal edges together. The longitudinal edges may typically be longitudinal edges of adjacent edging panels of the system, although it is also contemplated that in some arrangements, respective longitudinal edges of a single edging panel could be connected together via a panel connector member to make a circular boundary. In some arrangements, the panel connector member may comprise a main body portion configured to overlie longitudinal edge regions of one or more edging panels, and first and second hem regions provided at top and / or bottom edges of the panel connector member, such that adjacent edging panels (or opposite ends of a single edging panel) can be inserted laterally into the panel connector member and be captured for joining of the pair of edging panel longitudinal edges. In some arrangements, the main body portion of the panel connector may be generally planar, so as to allow an end-to-end connection of adjacent edging panels. In some arrangements, the main body portion of the panel connector may not be planar - e.g. it is contemplated that a right-angle connector could be used to connect adjacent edging panels so that they extend perpendicularly to one another at the point of connection. In some arrangements, the panel connector member may comprise a single hem region provided at the top or bottom edge of the panel connector member. The remaining edge may optionally comprise a flange. For example, the panel connector member may comprise a hem at the top edge, and a flange that extends perpendicular to the main body of the panel connector member at the bottom edge. In some arrangements, a locking plate may be provided which is configured to (directly or indirectly) attach to the panel connector member to capture the edging panel between the panel connector member and the locking plate. Conveniently, the locking plate and / or the panel connector member may comprise one or more cooperating attachment formations for locking of the locking plate to the panel connector member. The cooperating attachment formations may comprise a projection that engages with an aperture, although other arrangements are also contemplated. Where a locking plate is provided in combination with a panel connector member, this arrangement may be referred to as a panel connector assembly. Whilst it is contemplated that a wide range of material could be used to form component of the abovedescribed system, in preferred arrangements, one or more of the components of the boundary edging system may be formed from formed from sheet metal. That is, one or more of the edging panels, the stiffening rib, the gusset member and the panel connector member may be formed from sheet metal. Forming components from sheet metal can make them straightforward and inexpensive to manufacture. The boundary edging system may be configured such that substantially all of its major structural components (excluding e.g. components for fastening the boundary edging system to the ground) may be formed out of sheet metal. Preferably, all of the boundary edging system’s major structural components 23 04 25 8 may be formed out of the same sheet metal (i.e. sheet metal with substantially the same composition and thickness). The sheet metal may be steel (e.g., mild steel, stainless steel, weathering steel). The sheet metal may have a thickness in a range of from 0.9 to 3 mm, more preferably from 1.5 to 2.5 mm, most preferably about 2 mm thick. It has been found that use of sheet metal in these thickness ranges can provide a suitable balance between flexibility and mechanical strength of the structural components of the boundary edging system to make the system suitable for use in the widest range of applications. The height of the edging panels is not particularly limited: for example, the edging panels may have a height in a range of from 100 mm to 1000 mm. In preferred embodiments, the edging panel may have a height in a range of from 300 to 600 mm. As explained above, it has been found that the difficultly in providing a single boundary edging system that is suitable for use in bounding both curved- and straightsided areas may be particularly exacerbated for edging panels in this height range, and thus boundary eddying systems according to the present invention find particular utility when the edging panels are of this height. The boundary edging system may comprise one or more ground anchoring points to allow the boundary edging system to be anchored to the ground. In some arrangements, each edging panel may comprise one or more anchoring lugs which are configured to be attached to the ground via one or more fastening connections, e.g. using ground fixing spiral pins 300mm (L) through the lugs into the ground. Where the system comprises one or more gusset members configured to be attached to the edging panel to hold one or more of the edging panels upright, the gusset member may also be configured to be attached / anchored to the ground via a fastening connection, e.g. by use of a C-channel ground fixing post / stake through the gusset into soil, or by use of a ground anchor bolt when connecting to concrete, as discussed above. It will be appreciated that these are just examples of suitable fastening connections, and the use of alternative fastening connections is also contemplated (e.g. in some arrangements, the system may comprise a bolted or screw connection for fixing of the system to a substrate). The invention includes the combination of the aspects and preferred features described except where such a combination is clearly impermissible or expressly avoided. Summary of the Figures Embodiments and experiments illustrating the principles of the invention will now be discussed with reference to the accompanying figures in which: Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a first embodiment of a boundary edging system according to the present invention; Figure 2 shows an exploded view of the boundary edging system of Figure 1; Figure 3 shows a magnified perspective view of the edging panel shown in Figure 1; 23 04 25 Figure 4 shows a magnified perspective view of the stiffening rib shown in Figure 1; Figure 5 shows a magnified perspective view of the edging panel engaged with the stiffening rib and the gusset member shown in Figure 1; Figure 6 shows a magnified cross-sectional view of the edging panel and the stiffening rib; 5 Figure 7 shows a magnified cross-sectional view of the edging panel and the gusset member; Figure 8 shows a perspective view of the stiffening rib engaged with the gusset member; Figure 9 shows a magnified perspective view of the stiffening rib engaged with the gusset member; Figure 10 shows a perspective view of a second embodiment of a boundary edging system according to the present invention; 10 Figure 11 shows an exploded view of the connector member of the boundary edging system of the second embodiment as shown in Figure 10; Figures 12 (a)-(f) show schematically a number of different shapes of boundary that can be formed using boundary edging systems according to the present invention. 15 Detailed Description of the Invention Aspects and embodiments of the present invention will now be discussed with reference to the accompanying figures. Further aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. All documents mentioned in this text are incorporated herein by reference. Figures 1 and 2 respectively show perspective and exploded views of an embodiment of the boundary 20 edging system 100 arranged across length (L) and height (H) directions. The boundary edging system comprises at least one edging panel 110 and at least one stiffening rib 120 which is configured for removable attachment to the edging panel as discussed in more detail below. The boundary edging system of this embodiments also comprises at least one gusset member 130 and at least one panel connector member 140. 25 The edging panel 110 comprises two opposing major surfaces, each respective surface being configured to face the first or the second areas respectively, in use. In these figures only the first surface 111 is visible. The edging panel further comprises a reinforcing hem 112, and a plurality of anchoring lugs 116 having holes 117 formed therethrough. The edging panel is configured to be arranged adjacent to another edging panel along at least one longitudinal side edge, and preferably both side edges. The 30 edging panel is conveniently formed of sheet metal. The edging panel is configured to form at least part of a boundary between first and second areas, in other words to form a boundary wall between the first and second areas. The arrangement of the anchoring lugs 116 which extend perpendicularly from the first surface 111 of the edging panel enable the edging panel to stand upright, and may also provide means to secure the edging panel in place. The holes 117 formed through the anchoring lugs provide apertures for 35 bolts, screws, pins, or other fastening means (e.g. ground fixing spiral pins) to be inserted through the 23 04 25 lugs and secured into the ground. The precise mode of fastening may be selected depending on the nature of the substrate to which the boundary edging system is to be fixed. Where the boundary edging system is to be fixed to soil, preferably ground fixing spiral pins are inserted through the anchoring lugs into soil. Where the boundary edging system is to be fixed to concrete, conveniently, ground anchor bolts 5 may be used to secure the edging panels. The reinforcing hem 112 is conveniently formed by folding an edge of the edging panel on itself. The reinforcing hem is formed on at least one side edge of the edging panels. Here, the reinforcing hem is formed on the top edge of the edging panel, by folding the top edge of the panel to provide a U-shaped fold region, such that the reinforcing hem is spaced from a main body of the edging panel by a spacing 10 gap 118. Best shown in Figure 3, which presents a magnified view of a corner of the edging panel 110, the reinforcing hem is comprised of the same sheet metal and thickness as main body of the edging panel. Conveniently, the reinforcing hem is integrally formed with the surface. The edging panels conveniently also include at least one cut-out portion 113 (also known as a notch). Here, the cut-out portions comprise V-shaped cut-out portions. Provision of such cut-out portions may allow for improved 15 ease of bending of the edging panel. Conveniently the cut-out portions are triangularly shaped and are cut in the fold of the reinforcing hem such as to enable the edging panels to be bent to formed curved boundaries more easily. The stiffening rib is an elongate member which has an ‘L’ shaped cross-section such as to define two rectangular cross sectioned T shaped rib portions (also known as the first rib portion 121 and the second 20 rib portion 122). The stiffening rib is conveniently formed by bending a sheet metal blank achieve the ‘L’ shape (i.e. the first and second rib portions may be portions of a single integral component), although it is contemplated that the stiffening rib may be comprised of two rib portions which are formed and subsequently connected to each other (e.g. by welding). The first rib portion can be referred to as the upper rib portion, and the second rib portion can be referred to as the lower rib portion. At least part of the 25 ends of the stiffening rib are tapered, and the corners of the stiffening rib are also chamfered. This is most clearly shown in e.g. Figure 4. The provision of a taper 125 and chamfered corners on the stiffening rib reduces the amount of exposed sharp edges on the boundary edging system 100, which in turn improves user safety. As shown best in Figures 3 and 4, corresponding mating portions are provided on the edging panel 110 30 and the stiffening rib 120 to allow for removable connection of the stiffening rib to the edging panel. These mating portions facilitate the assembly and engagement of the components of the system with each other. The embodiment shown in these figures utilises a plurality of mating projections 114 on the edging panels, configured to engage with a corresponding plurality of mating apertures 123 provided on the stiffening rib. The edging panel’s mating projections project downwardly from the reinforcing hem 112, 35 and the stiffening rib’s mating apertures are provided to extend across both the first and second rib portions 121, 122. The mating projections 114 provided on the edging panel 114 each comprise an L-shaped arm portion having a first portion 114a extending in the height (H) direction, and a second portion 114b extending in 23 04 25 the length (L) direction. The lateral width of the mating projections 114 and the corresponding mating aperture 123 are selected such that such that the mating projection is insertable through the aperture in the height direction (in other words, the total lateral extent of the mating aperture is equal to or greater than the total lateral extent of the corresponding mating projection). The stiffening rod can then be slid 5 laterally relative to the edging panel such that such that the edge of the aperture is captured by the L-shaped arm portion. Conveniently, the first rib portion 121 can slot into the spacing gap 118 defined by the fold of the edging panel’s reinforced hem 112 as the mating projection 114 is inserted into the mating aperture 123. The result of this is that as shown in Figure 5, once engaged with the edging panels(s) the first rib portion 121 is located within the fold of the reinforcing hem 112, with the second rib portion 122 10 projecting away from the boundary wall in a substantially perpendicular manner. The mating projections 114 further comprise a locking detent 114c which is configured to engage with a locking aperture 124 provided adjacent the mating aperture. Together, the locking detent 114c and the locking aperture 124 provide a locking mechanism which allows for locking of the corresponding mating portions in the attached configuration. The interaction between the locking detent 114c and the locking 15 aperture 124 can be seen in e.g. Figure 5. The detent portion’s tapered profile on one edge facilitates the locking mechanism, as the taper facilitates the easy engagement of the locking portion 114a into the locking aperture 124, and the non-tapered profile on another edge facilitates the generation of a retention force holding the locking portion in engagement with the locking aperture. In this way the locking mechanism is configured to resist retraction of the stiffening rib 120 from the edging panels 110. 20 Further components of the boundary edging system will now be discussed in greater detail. As noted above, the boundary edging system 100 of the embodiment shown includes a plurality of gusset members 130 (two are shown in the figures) which are connectable to the edging panel to provide vertical support to the edging panel. Each gusset member comprises at least one gusset main body 131 which is triangular in form. The gusset main body 131 is integrally formed with a base plate 132 and an 25 attachment flange 133. The gusset member provides additional stability to the boundary edging system, and facilitates the anchoring of the boundary edging system within the boundary area. The gusset base plate 132 may be anchored to a substrate via fastening holes provided in the base plate and / or anchored via the weight of soil / gravel etc loaded onto the base plate. The gusset members can then be attached to the edging panel via the attachment flange 133 which provides a surface parallel to the edging panel 110 30 to facilitate the engagement of the gusset member with the edging panel. The gusset member also comprises a mating portion for attachment of the gusset member to the other components of the boundary edging system. Conveniently, the mating portion is provided as a mating protrusion 134 projecting from a top edge of the attachment flange 133. As shown in Figure 2, and shown best in Figure 7 which illustrates a cross-section of the boundary edging system 100 with the 35 stiffening rib 120 not shown for clarity, the mating protrusion 134 is configured to slot into the spacing gap 118 defined between the reinforcing hem 112 and the main body of the edging panel, in order to engage the edging panel. Turning to Figures 8 and 9, it can be seen that the gusset member’s mating protrusion 134 is configured to slot into the stiffening rib’s mating aperture 123, and that the stiffening rib’s mating 23 04 25 aperture 123 is configured to accept the gusset member’s mating protrusion 134 as well as the edging panel’s mating protrusion 114. Once the gusset member’s mating protrusion 134 is inserted into the mating aperture, this provides a further means for locking the stiffening rib and the edging panel relative to each other, as the presence of the gusset member’s mating protrusion 134 within the aperture prevents 5 removal of the edging panel’s mating protrusion 114 from the aperture. To help provide stability across the full height of the edging panel, the gusset member 130 may also be engaged with the edging panel 110 via a fastening connection to an anchoring lug 116. As can be seen in Figure 1, a hole in the base plate 132 of the gusset member can be arranged to overlap a hole 117 in an anchoring lug, such that a bolt, screw, pin, or other type of fastener can be inserted through both holes to 10 simultaneously connect the gusset member to the edging panel, and the boundary edging system 100 to the ground. An example of a suitable fastening connector includes a C-channel ground fixing post / stake. As noted above, the boundary edging system 100 of the embodiment shown includes at least one panel connector member 140. As shown best in Figure 2, the panel connector member 140 comprises a generally planar main body portion 141 configured to overlie longitudinal edge regions of one or more 15 edging panels and first and second hem regions 142a, b provided at top and bottom edges of the panel connector member, such that adjacent edging panels (or opposite ends of a single edging panel) can be inserted laterally into the panel connector member for joining of the pair of edging panel longitudinal edges. The panel connector member is configured like a sleeve to slide over side edges of adjacent edging panels 110 and thus form a connection between them. Whilst the edges may typically be 20 longitudinal edges of adjacent edging panels, it is also contemplated that in some arrangements, respective longitudinal edges of a single edging panel could be connected together via a panel connector member to make a circular planter. The edging panels are held in place in relation to the panel connector member via engagement of the edges ofthe edging panels with the first and second hem regions 142a, b provided on the top and bottom edges ofthe panel connector member 140. As such, the hem regions of 25 the panel connector member are spaced from the main body portion 141 by a distance that is greater than the total width ofthe edging panel at the reinforcing hem 112, such that the edging panel’s reinforcing hem 112 can fit entirely within the space within the first hem region 142a. By connecting edging panels in this manner, the panel connector members therefore form part ofthe boundary wall, thereby ensuring that the boundary wall is continuous. The use of such connector members also allows a 30 degree of adjustability as a lateral spacing gap between adjacent edging panels can be varied by up to the width ofthe connecting member. Substantially all ofthe major structural components ofthe boundary edging system 100 (i.e. the edging panels 110, the stiffening ribs 120, the gussets 130 and the panel connecting assemblies 140, with the exception ofthe fasteners (e.g. pins and bolts, posts and stakes) which may be used to fasten the 35 boundary edging systems to the ground and / or its surroundings) are conveniently formed of ~2 mm thick stainless steel or another sheet metal material such as mild steel or weathering steel. Conveniently, substantially all ofthe components ofthe boundary edging system are formed from sheet metal ofthe same thickness. In this way the boundary edging system may be more simply and / or reliably 23 04 25 13 manufactured using a narrower selection of materials, tools and / or manufacturing processes, compared to conventional products. Conveniently the edging panels of this embodiment shown have a height between 300 mm to 600 mm. Figure 10 shows a perspective view of a second embodiment of a boundary edging system 200. The boundary edging system comprises at least one edging panel 210 and at least one stiffening rib 220 which is configured for removable attachment to the edging panel, at least one gusset member 230 and at least one panel connector assembly 240. Fastening connections for fixing the boundary edging system to a substrate (e.g. into soil, turf etc) are also shown: a C-channel ground fixing post 231 is provided for fixing each gusset member 230. Ground fixing spiral pins 215 are provided for fixing the lugs 216. The features of this boundary edging system are substantially identical to those of the first embodiment discussed above, other than for the connector member. Figure 11 shows an exploded view of the connector assembly 240 of the second embodiment. The panel connector assembly 240 comprises a main body portion 241 having a first hem region 242 at its top edge and a flange 243 at its bottom edge. The connector assembly further comprises a locking plate 244. The main body portion 241 and the locking plate 243 are configured to overlie longitudinal edge regions of one or more edging panels on opposite sides of the edging panel(s) such that the edging panel(s) are sandwiched between the main body portion 241 and the locking plate 244. The main body portion 241 and the locking plate 244 each comprise cooperating attachment formations 245a, b which cooperate to lock the locking plate 244 relative to the main body portion 241. In the arrangement shown here, the main body portion comprises three attachment plates 245a that extend perpendicularly from a rear surface of the main body portion. The attachment plates 245 each comprise a tapered slot formed therethrough. The locking plate 244 comprises three attachment cut-out portions 245b which each define an attachment projection that lies in the same plane as the locking plate. In use, the attachment plates 245a of the main body portion 241 are first inserted through the attachment cut-out portions 245b of the locking plate 244, and the locking plate is then moved both laterally and vertically relative to the main body portion 241 so that the attachment projections defined by the cut-out portions 245b of the locking plate engage the tapered slot formed in the attachment plates 245a of the main body portion. This locks the locking plate relative to the main body portion. Boundary edging systems of the present invention can be assembled such that the edging panels of the system form at least part of a boundary of a straight-sided area, or such that the such that the edging panels of the system form at least part of a boundary of a curved-sided area. The boundary region defined by the system may have straight-sided portions and curved-sided portions. The number of edging panels, and the decision on whether or not to attach a stiffening rib to a respective edging panel of the system will depend on the intended configuration of the boundary: a stiffening rib may be attached to a corresponding edging panel when it is desired to form a straight-sided boundary segment. An edging panel may be used without an attached stiffening rib when it is desired to form a curved boundary segment. 23 04 25 It will be appreciated that system according to the present invention are widely configurable to form boundaries of various shapes and forms. For example Figures 12 (a)-(f) show schematically a number of different shapes of boundary that could be formed using systems according to the present invention, with different shading representing different substrates (paving, soil, turf, etc), including (a) square, (b) 5 rectangular, (c) circular, (d) stadium-shape, (e) sinusoidal, or (f) straight line boundaries. It will be appreciated that for boundaries which consist entirely of straight-line segments, all edging panels forming the boundary may have a stiffening rib attached in use. For boundaries which comprise curved segments, selected edging panels may be used without an attached stiffening rib to form the curved segments of the boundary, and selected edging panels may be used with stiffening ribs attached to form 10 straight segments of the boundary. For boundaries that consist entirely of curved segments, all edging panels forming the boundary may be used without an attached stiffening rib. The features disclosed in the foregoing description, or in the following claims, or in the accompanying drawings, expressed in their specific forms or in terms of a means for performing the disclosed function, or a method or process for obtaining the disclosed results, as appropriate, may, separately, or in any 15 combination of such features, be utilised for realising the invention in diverse forms thereof. While the invention has been described in conjunction with the exemplary embodiments described above, many equivalent modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art when given this disclosure. Accordingly, the exemplary embodiments of the invention set forth above are considered to be illustrative and not limiting. Various changes to the described embodiments may be made without 20 departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. For the avoidance of any doubt, any theoretical explanations provided herein are provided for the purposes of improving the understanding of a reader. The inventors do not wish to be bound by any of these theoretical explanations. Any section headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not to be construed as 25 limiting the subject matter described. Throughout this specification, including the claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word “comprise” and “include”, and variations such as “comprises”, “comprising”, and “including” will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or step or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or steps. 30 It must be noted that, as used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from “about” one particular value, and / or to “about” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular value and / or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by the use of the antecedent “about,” it 35 will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment. The term “about” in relation to a numerical value is optional and means for example + / -10%. 23 04 25

Claims

1. A boundary edging system comprising:at least one edging panel configured to form at least part of a boundary between first and second areas, the edging panel having a pair of longitudinal edges in a height direction connected by side edges 5 in a length direction; andat least one stiffening rib configured for removable attachment to the edging panel such that the stiffening rib extends along at least part of the edging panel in the length direction, wherein the stiffening rib has an L-shaped cross-section, comprising first and second rib portions arranged substantially perpendicularly to each other.10 2. The boundary edging system according to claim 1, wherein corresponding mating portions areprovided on each of the edging panel and the stiffening rib, whereby the stiffening rib is configured for removable attachment to the edging panel by cooperative engagement of said corresponding mating portions.

3. The boundary edging system according to claim 2 wherein the corresponding mating portions15 comprise a first mating portion provided on the stiffening rib, and a second mating portion provided on the edging panel, wherein one of the first and second mating portions comprises a mating aperture, and the other of the first and second mating portion comprises a mating projection, the mating projection being configured for insertion through the mating aperture to provide for connection of the mating portions.

4. The boundary edging system according to claim 3 wherein the mating projection is provided on 20 the edging panel, and the mating aperture is provided on the stiffening rib.

5. The boundary edging system according to any preceding claim, wherein the edging panel comprises a reinforcing hem, formed by folding an edge of the edging panel.

6. The boundary edging system according to claim 5 wherein a spacing gap is provided between the reinforcing hem and a main body of the edging panel, and wherein the stiffening rib is configured to 25 be at least partially inserted into the spacing gap.

7. The boundary edging system according to claim 5 or claim 6, wherein the reinforcing hem comprises one or more cut-out portions.

8. The boundary edging system according to any one of claims 5 to 7 as dependent from claim 4, wherein the mating portion provided on the edging panel is provided on the reinforcing hem.30 9. The boundary edging system according to any preceding claim, wherein the stiffening rib isconfigured for removable attachment to the edging panel near or adjacent to a top edge of the edging panel.

10. The boundary edging system according to any preceding claim, further comprising at least one gusset member that is configured to be anchored within the first or second area in use, the gusset35 member being configured to be attached to the edging panel to hold one or more of the edging panels upright.23 04 2511. The boundary edging system according to claim 10, wherein the gusset member is configured to be anchored within the first or second area by a base plate configured to be loaded by the contents of the first or second area.

12. The boundary edging system according to claims 10 or 11, wherein the gusset member 5 comprises a mating portion, configured to engage with one or more edging panels and / or one or more stiffening ribs.

13. The boundary edging system according to any preceding claim, further comprising one or more panel connector members configured to connect a respective pair of edging panel longitudinal edges together.10 14. The boundary edging system according to any preceding claim, wherein the edging panels areflexible such as to allow curvature in the length direction to form a boundary of a curved boundary area.

15. The boundary edging system according to any preceding claim, wherein one or more of the components of the boundary edging system are formed from sheet metal.

16. The boundary edging system according claim 15, wherein the sheet metal has a thickness in a 15 range of from 0.9 to 3 mm, more preferably from 1.5 to 2.5 mm, most preferably about 2 mm thick.

17. The boundary edging system according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the edging panel has a height in a range of from 300 to 600 mm.

18. The boundary edging system according to any preceding claim, wherein each edging panel is configured to be attached to the ground via a fastening connection.20 19. A kit of parts for a boundary edging system, comprising:a set of edging panels configured to form at least part of a boundary between first and second areas, each edging panel having a pair of longitudinal edges in a depth direction connected by side edges in a length direction, anda corresponding set of stiffening ribs configured for removable attachment to respective edging 25 panels of the set of edging panels such that each stiffening rib extends along at least part of the respective edging panel in the length direction, wherein each stiffening rib has an L-shaped cross-section, comprising first and second rib portions arranged substantially perpendicularly to each other.

20. A method of assembly of the boundary edging system of claims 1 to 18, the method comprising: (i) attaching the stiffening rib to the edging panel such that the stiffening rib extends along at 30 least part of an edging panel in the length direction, and arranging the at least one edging panel to form at least part of a boundary of a straight-sided area; or(ii) removing the stiffening rib from the edging panel, and arranging the at least one edging panel to form at least part of a boundary of a curved area.

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