Modular fence assembly

Abstract

To provide a modular fence assembly that is easy to install, remove, and move. [Solution] A modular fence assembly including a plurality of fence modules, each fence module including a barrier with a pair of substantially parallel end posts and a base configured to stabilize each fence module on a surface. The modular fence assembly further includes a plurality of connectors, each configured to connect two adjacent fence modules of the plurality of fence modules, each connector configured as a double hinge having a pair of parallel interior channels, each interior channel configured to surround the end post of one of the two adjacent fence modules. The plurality of fence modules and the plurality of connectors are configured to be assembled into a fence.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 064,058, filed August 11, 2020, entitled "Modular Fence Assembly," which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0002]

[0002] The present invention relates to the technical field of fences.

Background Art

[0003]

[0003] There are various types, styles, and structures of fences. Outdoor fences are typically fixed to the ground using posts inserted into the ground or by attaching the posts to existing man - made structures such as concrete or asphalt. Indoor fences are movable and often can stand on their own without being permanently fixed to the floor or wall.

[0004]

[0004] Movable fences are inherently prone to tipping over when pushed, and are not suitable in many scenarios where animals or humans are expected to regularly push the fence either intentionally or unintentionally.

[0005]

[0005] Many movable fences are cumbersome to handle, and installation, removal, and movement are inconvenient.

[0006]

[0006] The examples of the foregoing related art and the limitations associated therewith are for illustrative purposes and not exclusive. Other limitations of the related art will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the specification and examining the drawings.

Summary of the Invention

[0007]

[0007] The following embodiments and aspects thereof are described and illustrated in connection with systems, tools, and methods that are exemplary and illustrative and not intended to be limiting.

[0008]

[0008] One embodiment provides a modular fence assembly comprising a plurality of fence modules and a plurality of connectors configured to connect two adjacent fence modules from the plurality of fence modules, wherein each of the plurality of fence modules comprises a barrier having a pair of substantially parallel end posts and a base configured to stabilize each fence module on a surface, and each of the plurality of connectors is configured as a double hinge having a pair of parallel internal channels, with each internal channel configured to surround one end post from two adjacent fence modules.

[0009]

[0009] Multiple fence modules and multiple connectors are configured to be assembled to form a fence.

[0010]

[0010] In some embodiments, each of the internal channels of the connector is a tubular channel, and each of the end posts of the barrier has a circular profile configured to spiral inside the tubular channel.

[0011]

[0011] In some embodiments, the barrier comprises a grid having a plurality of pickets arranged substantially parallel to the end posts, and each of the internal channels of the connector is configured to further surround the pickets of the barrier.

[0012]

[0012] In some embodiments, the base and the barrier are formed integrally.

[0013]

[0013] In some embodiments, the base is positioned substantially perpendicular to the barrier and comprises a substantially flat structure extending from at least a first side of the barrier to a length equal to 25% to 100% of the height of the barrier.

[0014]

[0014] In some embodiments, the substantially flat structure extends from the first side of the barrier to a length equal to 35% to 50% of the height of the barrier.

[0015]

[0015] In some embodiments, the substantially flat structure comprises a gently sloping platform extending downward from a first side of the barrier, the gently sloping platform comprising one or more lower edges configured to engage with the surface on which the fence modules are placed, and the bases of the multiple fence modules are configured to tuck at least partially under each other when the multiple fence modules are stacked.

[0016]

[0016] In some embodiments, the fence modules and connectors are configured to be assembled into a fence by connecting the fence modules in series using the connectors, in which the fence modules in series alternately have a base extending to one side of the fence and a base extending to the opposite side of the fence.

[0017]

[0017] In some embodiments, the fence modules and connectors are configured to be assembled into a fence by connecting the fence modules in series using the connectors, wherein the fence modules in series have bases extending to the same side of the fence.

[0018]

[0018] In some embodiments, each of the fence modules further comprises a pair of legs extending from the periphery on the opposite side of the barrier, where the base extends from the barrier.

[0019]

[0019] Another embodiment relates to the use of a modular fence assembly as a mobile fencing for poultry.

[0020]

[0020] A further embodiment is a method of using a modular fence assembly as a movable fence for poultry, the method comprising assembling the modular fence assembly within a poultry house into a fence while allowing a feeding pipe and / or a water supply pipe of the poultry house to pass between adjacent fence modules of the fence.

[0021]

[0021] In addition to the above exemplary aspects and embodiments, further aspects and embodiments will become apparent by reference to the drawings and consideration of the following detailed description.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0022]

[0022] Exemplary embodiments are shown in the reference drawings. The dimensions of the components and mechanisms shown in the drawings are generally chosen for convenience and clarity of presentation and do not necessarily indicate a fixed scale. The drawings are listed below.

[0023] [Figure 1A]

[0023] A front isometric view of an exemplary modular fence assembly assembled into a fence according to some embodiments is shown. [Figure 1B]

[0023] A top isometric view of an exemplary modular fence assembly assembled into a fence according to some embodiments is shown. [Figure 1C]

[0023] A diagonal isometric view of an exemplary modular fence assembly assembled into a fence according to some embodiments is shown. [Figure 2A]

[0024] A front perspective view of an exemplary fence module is shown. [Figure 2B]

[0024] A front isometric view of an exemplary fence module is shown. [Figure 2C]

[0024] A rear isometric view of an exemplary fence module is shown. [Figure 2D]

[0024] A side isometric view of an exemplary fence module is shown. [Figure 2E]

[0024] Shows an isometric view from above of an exemplary fence module. [Figure 2F-2H]

[0024] Shows three different cross-sectional views of an exemplary fence module. [Figure 2I-2L]

[0024] Shows four different enlarged views of an exemplary fence module. [Figure 3A]

[0025] Shows a diagonal isometric view of an exemplary connector according to some embodiments. [Figure 3B]

[0025] Shows an isometric view from above of an exemplary connector according to some embodiments. [Figure 4A]

[0026] Shows a diagonal isometric view of an exemplary connector according to some embodiments. [Figure 4B]

[0026] Shows an isometric view from above of an exemplary connector according to some embodiments. [Figure 4C]

[0026] Shows a front isometric view of an exemplary connector according to some embodiments. [Figure 4D]

[0026] Shows a cross-sectional view of an exemplary connector according to some embodiments. [Figure 4E-4F]

[0026] Shows two different enlarged views of an exemplary connector according to some embodiments. [Figure 5A]

[0027] Shows a diagonal isometric view of another exemplary connector according to some embodiments. [Figure 5B]

[0027] Shows an isometric view from above of another exemplary connector according to some embodiments. [Figure 5C]

[0027] Shows a front isometric view of another exemplary connector according to some embodiments. [Figure 6]

[0028] Shows a front perspective view of a pipe crossing an exemplary assembled fence according to some embodiments. [Figure 7A]

[0029] Shows a front perspective view of an exemplary assembled fence including two partially overlapping fence modules according to some embodiments. [Figure 7B]

[0029] An exemplary top isometric view of an assembled fence including two partially overlapping fence modules according to one embodiment is shown. [Figure 8A]

[0030] A front perspective view of overlapping fence modules according to one embodiment is shown. [Figure 8B]

[0030] A cross-sectional view of overlapping fence modules according to one embodiment is shown. [Figure 9]

[0031] A front perspective view of an exemplary folding fence, carried by a pole, according to one embodiment, is shown. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0024]

[0032] This specification discloses modular fence assemblies. Referring to Figures 1A to 1C in general, a modular fence assembly may comprise a plurality of fence modules 102, each having a barrier 104 and a base 140, and connected in series to form a fence 100. Any pair of adjacent fence modules 102 may be connected using one or more connectors 170. A fence may be assembled from a suitable number of fence modules selected according to the desired fence length.

[0025]

[0033] Modular fence assemblies are configured to allow angular movement between any two adjacent fence modules, thereby enabling the fence to be assembled in various user-selected configurations and installed on a surface (e.g., the ground, on a floor). For example, the fence may be configured in straight lines, curves, zigzags, closed loops of various shapes, and any other configurations that can be formed by manipulating the angles between adjacent fence modules. As another example, the fence may be configured in a branched form, where fence segments, composed of multiple series-connected fence modules, branch off from the center of another fence segment (not necessarily from its absolute center, but from one of the fence modules, not from its ends), generally forming fence shapes such as T-shapes, E-shapes, Y-shapes, and X-shapes.

[0026]

[0034] Modular fence assemblies may also be configured to allow overlapping connections between two adjacent fence modules in order to shorten the length of a certain fence segment. Generally, as shown in Figures 7A to 7B, fence modules 102a and 102b may be connected so as to partially overlap by inward pickets rather than at the ends. This can be useful when the fence must be constructed under certain constraints, such as a pipe 700 that needs to cross the fence at a certain point.

[0027]

[0035] Each connector may be configured as a double hinge. Referring to Figures 3A and 3B in general, the connector 170 may have a pair of parallel internal channels 172 and 174. Each channel may surround the end post of the fence module and be configured to allow the end post to pivot within the channel.

[0028]

[0036] To meet different needs related to the horizontal spacing between adjacent fence modules, the assembly may be provided with connectors of different sizes. For example, relatively wide connectors 500, as shown in Figures 5A to 5C and 6, can be used to separate these fence modules and create space, allowing objects such as pipes 600 or other utility conduits to pass through the fence from that space. Relatively narrower connectors, such as those shown in Figures 3A to 3B, can be used to form denser fence segments, for example, to prevent animals from passing through the fence between the fence modules.

[0029]

[0037] In another example, generally shown in Figure 6, two or more connectors 500a and 500b may be installed at different heights between a pair of adjacent fence modules, thereby physically preventing animals from passing through. This can be useful, for example, to physically block a relatively large space that would otherwise be formed between adjacent fence modules through which a pipe 600 or another utility pipe might pass.

[0030]

[0038] For efficient shipping and storage, fence modules may be configured to stack tightly. For example, as generally shown in Figures 8A to 8B, the bases of fence modules may be configured to fit at least partially underneath each other, which may allow the fence modules to stack tightly with the barriers parallel to each other.

[0031]

[0039] For temporary storage of the assembled fence and for its easy relocation, the fence may be folded in a zigzag pattern until all fence modules are parallel, with their bases at least partially (optionally completely) tucked beneath each other, as generally shown in Figure 9. To move the folded fence, it may be lifted and carried by poles 900 inserted through the barriers of all fence modules. To facilitate this configuration, the connectors may be sized and configured to correspond to the minimum possible distance (optionally with a small tolerance) between two tightly overlapping fence modules. This ensures that when the fence modules are assembled in a parallel state and then folded in a zigzag pattern, there is only negligible wasted space between adjacent fence modules.

[0032]

[0040] Modular fence assemblies can have a variety of uses. For example, they can be used to assemble a fence to prevent animals and / or people (children or adults) from moving between two areas, or to enclose a certain area where animals and / or people are present or where entry is prohibited. Assembled fences can be used to define a closed play area for children, whether indoors or outdoors. Similarly, assembled fences can be used to confine pets to a designated area, such as providing a limited training area for puppies.

[0033]

[0041] Advantageously, modular fence assemblies are constructed to withstand animal and / or human pushes without tipping over. The base of each fence module may have a substantially flat structure that is substantially perpendicular to the barrier and, consequently, coplanar (or nearly coplanar) with the floor or ground. The substantially flat structure is constructed so that animals or humans can stand, sit, or crawl on it. If an animal or human pushes or leans against the barrier of a fence module while remaining on the substantially flat structure of the base, their weight may counteract the pushing force and prevent the fence module from tipping over. Similarly, if one animal pushes or leans against the barrier while another animal remains on the base of the same fence module, the likelihood of the fence module tipping over is very low.

[0034]

[0042] This is most effective when the horizontal distance from the center of gravity of the pushing entity to the bottom of the barrier is greater than the vertical distance from the bottom of the barrier to the point where the pushing force on the barrier is concentrated or centered. Thus, fence modules may best withstand the pushing of animals or crawling babies whose typical height is similar to their typical length (e.g., within 50% of each other). This may be replaced by a rule of thumb to configure substantially flat structures to have a horizontal distance equal to 25%–100% of the barrier height, or 30–55% of the narrower barrier height (measured from the side over which the substantially flat structure of the barrier extends). Additional options are 25–35%, 35–45%, 45–55%, 55–65%, 65–75%, 75–85%, 95–100%, or any broader range encompassing two or more of these smaller ranges.

[0035]

[0043] Furthermore, when a fence is assembled in a closed shape (such as a circle), the closed shape itself can prevent the fence from toppling over, regardless of whether an animal or person pushes against the fence while remaining on the substantially flat structure of the base. This effect is, naturally, stronger the smaller the closed shape.

[0036]

[0044] When a fence is assembled into an open shape, such as a substantially straight line, curve, zigzag, or any combination thereof, the fence modules may be assembled with their substantially flat structures alternatingly facing opposite sides of the fence (or the fence may alternate orientations every few fence modules). In this configuration, a push from one side of the fence is resisted by the substantially flat structure on the other side of the fence, preventing it from tipping over.

[0037]

[0045] One particularly advantageous application of modular fence assemblies is poultry mobile fences. Poultry mobile fences are often used in large poultry houses (sometimes called "poultry farms" or "aviaries") to distribute poultry flocks more evenly across the floor area of ​​the poultry house. This prevents birds from congregating in specific areas and improves access to food and water for all birds. The use of poultry mobile fences is more prevalent in broiler farming because young poultry gain weight rapidly and are usually unable to jump over even low fences (e.g., 35-55 cm).

[0038]

[0046] The modular fence assembly of the present invention is convenient on the one hand for transport to, assemble, deploy on the floor of the poultry coop, clean, fold up, and move around the poultry coop, while on the other hand for providing the stability that is truly needed, and can be very useful as a mobile fence for poultry.

[0039]

[0047] Refer to the diagram in more detail below.

[0040]

[0048] The dimensions shown in any of the figures illustrate any embodiment of the present invention and should be understood according to one of the following options, or any combination thereof.

[0041]

[0049] In one option, an element may have a length, diameter (represented by a number following the symbol O), and / or radius (represented by a number following the letter R), indicated in millimeters, multiplied by a factor of 0.1 to 10, for example, 0.1 to 1, 1 to 2, 2 to 3, 3 to 4, 4 to 5, 5 to 6, 6 to 7, 7 to 8, 8 to 9, 9 to 10, or any broader range encompassing two or more of these smaller ranges. For example, an element with an indicated length of "10" may have lengths ranging from 1 mm to 100 mm. The same or different multipliers may be used for different elements, except in cases where the same multiplier can be used for elements whose dimensions are clearly codependent.

[0042]

[0050] Another option is that the indicated lengths, diameters, and / or radii of two or more elements may represent the ratio of such dimensions between these elements, or a ±20% range of that ratio. For example, if the indicated diameter of one element is "10" and the indicated diameter of the other is "15", this may represent a ratio of the diameters of these elements of 1:1.5, or a ratio of the diameters of these elements in the range of 1:1.2 (-20%) to 1:1.8 (+20%).

[0043]

[0051] Further options include the elements being molded and / or positioned according to the specified angles (in degrees), or within a range of ±30° of those angles.

[0044]

[0052] In any of these options, the indicated value may represent a well-known tolerance in the art, indicated by either a "±" symbol for positive or negative tolerance, a subscript for negative tolerance, or a superscript for positive tolerance.

[0045]

[0053] These options merely illustrate any embodiment of the present invention, and other embodiments may include one or more elements that differ in dimensions from those encompassed by these options.

[0046]

[0054] In the diagram, a multiplication symbol, another number, and a number followed by the abbreviation "TYP" indicate that the dimension is specified for one typical element, but applies to adjacent identical elements. For example, if "10 × 5 TYP." is specified for a rod, it means that each of the five identical rods is "10".

[0047]

[0055] Refer to Figures 2A to 2E, which show an exemplary fence module (or simply "module") 102 in front perspective, front isometric, rear isometric, side isometric, and top isometric views, respectively. Also refer to Figures 2F to 2H, which show various cross-sections of module 102, and Figures 2I to 2L, which show various enlarged areas of the module.

[0048]

[0056] Module 102 may include a barrier 104 configured to stand upright perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the surface on which the assembled fence is installed, and a base 140 configured to stabilize the module on the surface (hereinafter referred to as the "floor" for simplicity).

[0049]

[0057] Module 102 may be formed integrally, for example, in an injection molding manufacturing process. Module 102 may be made of rigid plastics such as polypropylene (PP) or high-density polyethylene (HDPE). Optionally, one or more antimicrobial agents may be added to the plastic during manufacturing to enhance the resistance of module 102 to superficial bacterial growth. In different configurations, the module may be made of metal. Advantageously, if module 102 is manufactured from PP or HDPE in size of approximately 40 cm (barrier height) x approximately 21 cm (base length), its weight may be only about 1.1 to 1.4 kilograms, making it easy to move and assemble. In other configurations (not shown), the module may have a lower or higher weight for the same dimensions, or a different size-to-weight ratio.

[0050]

[0058] As an alternative to forming module 102 as a single unit, its various components may be manufactured separately and then assembled or installed at the factory or by the user installing the fence.

[0051]

[0059] The barrier 104 may be configured to prevent animals, humans, and / or other moving objects from passing through one side of the module to the other. The barrier 104 may have, for example, a generally rectangular shape. For example, the barrier 104 may have a grid with openings smaller than the object to be obstructed. The grid may comprise a number of vertical rods (referred to herein as “pickets”) and a number of horizontal rods (referred to herein as “rails”). In the illustrated example, the grid is formed by 21 pickets and 5 rails, but other configurations (not shown) may comprise 3 to 100 pickets and 2 to 100 rails, or even more. The two outermost pickets are referred to herein as endposts 106a of module 102.

[0052]

[0060] Optionally, the grid may include at least one reinforcing diagonal rod 110 that further interconnects multiple pickets 106 and rails 108. The diagonal rod 110 may increase the rigidity of the barrier 104, which bends along its vertical and horizontal axes.

[0053]

[0061] It should be noted that when module 102, or at least barrier 104, is integrally formed by injection molding, the picket 106 and rail 108 are not actually unit elements, but rather structural elements embedded together at their intersecting locations.

[0054]

[0062] Optionally, the grid extends over most of the height of the barrier 104 and is replaced by a different structure at the bottom of the barrier. This different structure may be configured to bond more closely with the base 104. For example, the bottom of the barrier 104 may include a solid plate 112. The plate 112 may have a roughly rectangular opening 112a at its outer edge that exposes two end posts 106a, allowing a connector 170 to be attached to either of the end posts at the same horizontal level as the plate.

[0055]

[0063] In other configurations (not shown), the barrier may have different internal structures to prevent passage and provide structural stability, such as different arrangements of rods, solid plates, perforated plates, mesh, or any combination thereof.

[0056]

[0064] We will now specifically refer to Figure 2I, which shows a magnified view of the area labeled “See Detail A” in Figure 2C. This area extends vertically between the uppermost rail 108a and the rail 108 immediately below it, and horizontally between the center of the barrier 104, for example, between the second pickets 106 on either side of the center. This area may be separated vertically by another horizontal rod 114. Since no pickets extend from below the barrier 104 into the space 116 between the rod 114 and the second rail 108 from the top, the rod 144 is configured to function as a handle for module 102, which is positioned above the module’s center of gravity. The space 116 may be large enough for an adult’s hand.

[0057]

[0065] A ring 118 may be positioned between the rod 114 and the uppermost rail 108a, and above the center of gravity of module 102. The central opening 120 of the ring 118 may be used for inserting a balance beam, as will be further discussed below. Optionally, an additional rail 122 may be positioned vertically below the uppermost rail 108a to further reinforce the ring 118 against the grid and prevent damage when module 102 is supported by the ring, partially embedding the ring 118.

[0058]

[0066] Optionally, a small notch 124 is present at the top center of the central opening 120 of the ring 118, configured to connect to a lift cable. When the assembled fence is installed inside a poultry house, at least a portion of module 102 may be connected to a lift cable extending vertically towards the ceiling of the poultry house, and the lift cable may be connected to an optionally motor-driven lifting system configured to lift the fence and feed and / or water pipes. These may be lifted, for example, to clean the floor of the poultry house between growth cycles.

[0059]

[0067] Next, we consider the base 140. The base 140 is located at the bottom of the module 102 and may extend to one or both sides of the module. For example, on one side of the module 102 (the front side in the example shown), the base 140 may have a substantially flat structure substantially perpendicular to the barrier 104, shown here as a gently sloping platform 142 extending downward from the front side of the barrier 104, for example, from the solid plate 112 of the barrier.

[0060]

[0068] The gently sloping platform 142 may have, for example, an upper edge 146 aligned horizontally with the module 102, and a lower edge 148 comprising three inclined surfaces: a roughly trapezoidal central inclined surface 144 parallel to and shorter than the upper edge; and two roughly triangular side inclined surfaces 150, each having a rear edge 152 extending laterally from the upper corner of the central inclined surface 144 toward each side end of the module 102, an upper edge 154 extending from the upper corner of the central inclined surface toward the lower corner of the central inclined surface, and a lower edge 156 extending on the same horizontal plane as the lower edge of the central inclined surface. The lower edge 148 of the central inclined surface 144 and the lower edges 156 of the side inclined surfaces 150 both form the lower edge of the gently sloping platform 142, configured to engage with the floor and stabilize the module 102.

[0061]

[0069] The lower edge of the gently sloping platform 142 is shown as a straight edge configured to contact the floor along its entire length, but in different configurations (not shown), the lower edge may include a portion configured to contact the floor and one or more portions configured to rise above the floor.

[0062]

[0070] The gently sloping platform 142 may be further reinforced against the barrier 104 by one or more struts. For example, two struts 158 may be positioned on the upper edge 146 of the central sloping surface 144 to further support the central sloping surface and the plate 112 of the barrier 104. Each strut 158 ​​may be hollow and wedge-shaped, opening to the rear side of the barrier 104 and the internal volume of the gently sloping platform 142.

[0063]

[0071] When the fence assembly is used as a mobile fence for poultry, some or all of the dimensions shown in the figure may be in centimeters multiplied by a coefficient of 0.9–1.1, or a narrower coefficient of 0.95–1.05. Specifically, the substantially flat base structure, such as the gently sloping platform 142, may extend to a horizontal distance of 14–20 cm (measured from the side of the barrier onto which the gently sloping platform extends), and the height of the barrier 104 may be 35–45 cm. This results in a ratio of the horizontal distance of the substantially flat base structure to the height of the barrier 104 in the range of 1:2.5–1:2.65. Testing of fence assemblies with such dimensions has been successful in poultry houses where broilers are raised, reaching a maximum average weight of approximately 2.5–3 kilograms over a 40–50 week growth cycle.

[0064]

[0072] In other configurations, the dimensions of the base's substantially flat structure and barriers may differ to accommodate, for example, different breeds of poultry, different breeding styles, etc. For example, some or all of the dimensions shown in the figures may be in centimeters multiplied by a coefficient of 0.7–1.5, narrower 0.7–0.8, 0.8–0.9, 0.9–1, 1–1.1, 1.1–1.2, 1.2–1.3, 1.3–1.4, 1.4–1.5, or a broader range encompassing two or more of these narrower ranges.

[0065]

[0073] The base 140 optionally includes, in addition to the gently sloping platform 142, a structure positioned behind the barrier 104 to further stabilize the module 102 on the floor. This structure may include, for example, a pair of relatively small legs 160 extending from the rear of the plate 112 and positioned further outward than the gently sloping platform 142 (i.e., closer to the two opposite vertical ends of the barrier 104).

[0066]

[0074] Each leg 160 may be a hollow wedge shape that opens to the front of the barrier 104 and to the floor. Each leg 160 may extend a horizontal distance shorter than the gently sloping platform 142 (for example, only 30-95%) from the barrier 104. For example, in some configurations, the horizontal length of the gently sloping platform 142 may be 14-20 cm, while the horizontal length of each leg 160 may be 1.5-6 cm.

[0067]

[0075] As briefly discussed above, for efficient shipping and storage, modules 102 may be configured to be tightly stacked. See Figures 8A to 8B, which show exemplary stacked modules 102 in front perspective and cross-sectional views, respectively. The bases 140 of modules 102 may be configured to fit at least partially inside, or underneath, each other. Each base 140 may have both its gently sloping platform 142 and its legs 160 configured in this way. When modules 102 are arranged parallel to each other and the bases 140 are inserted into each other as far as possible, only the minimum distance between the barriers 104 remains, for example, 1 to 10 cm, more specifically 1 to 2 cm, 2 to 3 cm, 3 to 4 cm, 4 to 5 cm, 5 to 6 cm, 6 to 7 cm, 7 to 8 cm, 8 to 9 cm, 9 to 10 cm, or any wider range encompassing two or more of these narrower ranges. For example, 10 to 50 modules 102 may be stacked and packed into a transport box. The space above the gently sloping platform 142 of the frontmost module 102 remaining inside the box may be used, for example, to house connectors.

[0068]

[0076] Refer now to Figure 9, which shows an illustrative folded fence 902 in a perspective view. As briefly discussed above, for temporary storage of the assembled fence and for its easy relocation, the fence may be folded in a zigzag pattern until all modules 102 are parallel with their bases at least partially tucked under each other. The connectors 170 connecting the various modules 102 may remain active during folding. As discussed above with reference to Figures 8A to 8B, the connectors 170 are configured and dimensional such that when the modules 102 are finally positioned parallel and the bases 140 are inserted into each other as far as possible, only the minimum distance remaining between the barriers 104 is in the range of, for example, 1 to 10 cm, more specifically 1 to 2 cm, 2 to 3 cm, 3 to 4 cm, 4 to 5 cm, 5 to 6 cm, 6 to 7 cm, 7 to 8 cm, 8 to 9 cm, 9 to 10 cm, or any wider range encompassing two or more of these narrower ranges. To move the folded fence 902, the fence may be lifted and carried by poles 900 inserted through the barriers 104 of all modules 102, for example, openings 120 located above the center of gravity of each module.

[0069]

[0077] The assembled fence may be configured to fold as described above, not only by the configuration and dimensions of the connector 170, but also by the hollow configuration of the associated components of the base 140 (such as the gently sloping platform 142, struts 158, and legs 160). The openings (on the barrier side) of the associated components are wider than the deeper cavity area, allowing each component to be inserted into the corresponding component of the adjacent module, even when the two modules are advanced diagonally toward each other (by folding) rather than parallel.

[0070]

[0078] Refer to Figures 3A to 3B, which show an exemplary connector 170 in oblique isometric and top isometric views, respectively. Also refer to Figures 4A to 4F, which show half of the connector 170a in isometric front view, cross-sectional view, and two enlarged views, respectively.

[0071]

[0079] The connector 170 may optionally include two identical parts 170a and 170b configured to interlock with each other. The connector 170 is shown in interlocked (and “closed”) form in Figures 3A to 3B, and one of its identical halves, 170a, is shown in Figures 4A to 4F, which will be discussed in more detail with reference to these. Each of the halves 170a and 170b of the connector may be integrally formed from a rigid plastic such as PP or HDPE, for example, by injection molding.

[0072]

[0080] The connector 170 may be configured as a double hinge configured to connect two adjacent modules (not shown in these figures) so that both modules can rotate relative to the connector. Thus, the connector 170 may be configured as a pair of parallel internal channels 172 and 174 defined between two halves 170a and 170b of the connector when latched (i.e., the central longitudinal axes of these two channels are parallel), such that each half comprises an internal channel defining, for example, half of each channel. Channels 172 and 174 may each be configured as tubular channels, each defining substantially semi-cylindrical recesses 172a and 174a in halves 170a and 170b, respectively.

[0073]

[0081] Channels 172 and 174 may be configured to surround one endpost (not shown in these figures) of two adjacent modules. For this reason, each of channels 172 and 174 may have an inner diameter that is slightly larger along its length than the outer diameter of each endpost (for example, only 0.4–2 mm, more specifically 0.4–0.5 mm, 0.5–0.6 mm, 0.6–0.7 mm, 0.7–0.8 mm, 0.8–0.9 mm, 0.9–1 mm, 1–1.1 mm, 1.1–1.2 mm, 1.2–1.3 mm, 1.4–1.5 mm, 1.5–1.6 mm, 1.6–1.7 mm, 1.7–1.8 mm, 1.8–1.9 mm, 1.9–2 mm, or any broader range that encompasses two or more of these narrower ranges) so that the endpost can pivot inside the channel without large free play. Alternatively, if greater free play is required, the inner diameters of channels 172 and 174 may be larger than the values ​​mentioned above.

[0074]

[0082] Externally, the connector 170 may generally be shaped as an elongated figure-eight contour with walls whose thickness is configured to give the connector sufficient structural strength to withstand the typical forces expected to be applied to the assembled fence without damaging or separating the two interlocked halves 170a and 170b.

[0075]

[0083] Between the two half-channels 172a and 174a, the body of the connector half 170a may extend to a length 176 that determines the distance between the end posts of the two connected modules. This length 176 may be sufficient to allow the assembled fence to be folded as shown in Figure 9. That is, its length may be equal to or similar to the desired distance between the barriers of adjacent modules when the fence is fully folded and the modules are parallel.

[0076]

[0084] The body of the connector half 170a may have a structure configured to prevent the two connector halves from slipping against each other, which could cause the latch of the two connector halves to unintentionally detach. This structure may include, for example, two parallel sets of convex and concave portions facing opposite directions, which may be arranged within a length 176 between the half channels 172a and 174a of the connector half 170a and have a vertical dimension parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the half channel. In the first set, the convex portion 178a is arranged in the lower region of the connector half 170a and the concave portion 178b is arranged in the upper region of the connector half. In the second set, the convex portion 180a is arranged in the upper region of the connector half and the concave portion 180b is arranged in the lower region of the connector half.

[0077]

[0085] Each of the protrusions 178a and 180a may be molded as a horizontal cylindrical segment that protrudes from the (substantially flat) inner surface 184 of the connector half 170a, extends from the lower or upper end of the connector half, and terminates slightly (e.g., 0.3 to 0.7 mm) above the center of height 182 of the connector half.

[0078]

[0086] Next, each of the recesses 178b and 180b may be formed as a horizontal cylindrical segment that recesses into the inner surface 184 of the connector half 170a, extends from the upper or lower end of the connector half, and terminates slightly (e.g., 0.3-0.7 mm) below the center of height 182 of the connector half. Each of the recesses 178b and 180b may be configured to accommodate the protrusion 180a or 178a, respectively, when the connector 170 is hooked. The fact that each of the recesses 178b and 180b extends slightly beyond the center of height 182 of the connector half makes manual joining of the two connector halves more convenient and eliminates the need for fine manual maneuvers to fit the protrusion into the recess.

[0079]

[0087] The two connector halves 170a and 170a may be latched to each other using a latch 186 that engages with a wedge 188. The latch 186 and wedge 188 may be located on two opposing sides of the connector halves 170a, for example, on a circular wall surrounding the half channels 172a and 174a.

[0080]

[0088] Referring specifically to Figure 4E, the wedge 188 may be molded as a triangular prism extending over at least a portion of the height of the connector half 170a. Referring specifically to Figure 4F, the latch 186 may be molded as a concave arm extending over at least a portion of the height of the connector half 170a. One side surface 188a of the wedge 188 may be inclined at an angle of 15 to 25° with respect to the relative surface 170c of the connector half 170a, for example, to match a similar slope of the inner surface 186a of the latch 186. When the two connector halves 170a and 170a are pressed against each other, the latch 186 moves slightly outward until its outer sliding surface 186b slides against the outer sliding surface 188b of the wedge 188, and these two sliding surfaces slide away from each other, causing the latch to retract slightly outward until it springs back inward, and the inner surface 186a of the latch 186 engages with the side surface 188a of the wedge 188, and they are fixed together by their gradient.

[0081]

[0089] Refer to Figures 5A to 5C, which show another exemplary connector half 500 in oblique isometric, top isometric, and front isometric views, respectively. The connector half 500 may be similar to the connector half 170a in Figures 4A to 4F, except that it has a wider and longer body between its two tubular channels.

[0082]

[0090] By making the body wider, i.e., increasing the distance between the two tubular channels, this wider connector may be suitable for connecting two modules through spaces where objects such as pipes need to cross a fence. The width of the body may be designed to be greater than the outer diameter of the pipe. However, this relatively large space between adjacent modules may be exploited by animals or people passing through the fence. Therefore, the connector half 500 may also be configured to have a tall body that extends upward and downward beyond the height of the tubular channels surrounding the end posts of the modules, each of which may be limited by the vertical space between the two rails of the modules.

[0083]

[0091] Refer now to Figure 6, which shows a front perspective view of a pipe 600 between two adjacent modules 102 crossing an exemplary assembled fence. Two or more connectors 500a and 500b, each assembled from a pair of connector halves 500 shown in Figures 5A to 5C, may be assembled at different heights between modules 102, thereby physically preventing animals from passing through by the connectors themselves. If necessary, one or more such additional connectors may be assembled above the pipe 600 to further close the space between modules 102 (although this option is not shown in the figures). As illustrated, the height of each body of connectors 500a and 500b is similar to the distance between the central axes of any two adjacent rails of module 102 (e.g., 0.5 to 1.5 cm shorter), and there may be room to assemble multiple such connectors just above each other. Optionally, one or more connectors assembled between two adjacent modules 102, below and / or above the pipe 600 (e.g., connectors 500a and 500b, and optionally one or more additional connectors) are dimensioned to collectively occupy at least 70%, 80%, or 90% of the vertical space between the ground (or the lower end of module 102) and the pipe 600, and optionally at least 20%, 40%, 60%, 80%, or 90% of the vertical space between the pipe 600 and the upper end of the adjacent module 102.

[0084]

[0092] Refer now to Figures 7A to 7B, which show a front perspective view and a top isometric view, respectively, of an exemplary assembled fence including two partially overlapping fence modules 102a and 102b. As briefly discussed above, a modular fence assembly may be configured to allow overlapping connections of two adjacent fence modules, such as modules 102a and 102b, in order to shorten the length of a certain fence segment, subject to certain constraints.

[0085]

[0093] For example, a pipe 700 may be installed in a fixed position (e.g., inside a poultry house), and a fence may be assembled with an appropriate space 702 between modules 102b and 102c to accommodate the passage of the pipe. However, the distance from the right side of the pipe 700 to the point where the fence must terminate, for example, to the wall of the poultry house, may not fit the total number of modules (connected in series by connectors). In such a scenario, two modules 102a and 102b of the fence segment that needs shortening may be connected so as to partially overlap. That is, the modules may be placed back-to-back with the barriers parallel. In this case, one or more connectors (such as the four connectors 704a-d shown simply as an example) may be used to surround the internal pickets (i.e., not end posts) of one module and the internal pickets or end posts of the other module, respectively.

[0086]

[0094] When modular fence assemblies are used as mobile fencing for poultry inside a poultry coop, there may sometimes be multiple pipes running along the coop (usually parallel) and relatively close to the floor (e.g., 15-40 cm above the floor). Advantageously, modular fence assemblies can sometimes allow for the convenient assembly of a modular mobile fencing for poultry that satisfies physical constraints imposed by these pipes, and optionally by other structures such as the surrounding walls of the poultry coop.

[0087]

[0095] In the specification and claims, the terms “substantially” and “essentially” and each of their forms, when describing a numerical value, mean a deviation of up to 20% from that value (i.e., ±20%), and similarly, when such terms describe a range of numerical values, mean a range up to 20% wider (10% on each side of that range). Furthermore, when the terms “substantially” and “essentially” and each of their forms are used to describe geometric terms that define angles (e.g., “vertical,” “oblique,” ​​“parallel,” “plane,” “coplanar,” “coaxial,” “horizontal,” “perpendicular,” etc.), mean a deviation of up to 25 degrees from that angle (i.e., ±25°), or more specifically, up to ±10°, ±15°, or ±20°. This applies in particular to the endposts, pickets, barriers, modules and any other elements described in relation to such geometric terms.

[0088]

[0096] A description of a numerical range should be considered to specifically disclose all possible partial ranges and individual numerical values ​​within those ranges, and as a result, each of such partial ranges and individual numerical values ​​constitutes an embodiment of the present invention. This applies regardless of the breadth of the range. For example, a description of the integer range 1 to 6 should be considered to specifically disclose partial ranges such as 1 to 3, 1 to 4, 1 to 5, 2 to 4, 2 to 6, 3 to 6, and individual numbers within such ranges, such as 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. Similarly, a description of the decimal range 0.6 to 1.1 should be considered to specifically disclose partial ranges such as 0.6 to 0.9, 0.7 to 1.1, 0.9 to 1, 0.8 to 0.9, 0.6 to 1.1, 1 to 1.1, and individual numbers within such ranges, such as 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, and 1.1.

[0089]

[0097] The descriptions of various embodiments of the present invention are presented for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be exhaustive or limitful to the disclosed embodiments. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the described embodiments. The terms used herein have been selected to best describe the principles of the embodiments, their practical application to the technology available on the market, or technical improvements, or to enable those skilled in the art to understand the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0090]

[0098] In the specification and claims of this application, the words “comprise,” “include,” and “have” and their forms are not necessarily limited to the members on the list to which the words may be associated.

[0091]

[0099] In the event of any inconsistency between the specification and the references incorporated herein, this specification is hereby intended to prevail.

Claims

1. Multiple fence modules, A modular fence assembly comprising a plurality of connectors, each connecting two adjacent fence modules from the plurality of fence modules, Each of the aforementioned multiple fence modules A barrier comprising a grid having a pair of substantially parallel end posts and a plurality of pickets arranged substantially parallel to the end posts, Each fence module is equipped with a base to stabilize it on the surface, Each of the aforementioned plurality of connectors is configured as a double hinge having a pair of parallel internal channels, Each of the internal channels surrounds one end post of the two adjacent fence modules. Each of the internal channels of the connector further surrounds the picket of the barrier, A modular fence assembly in which the multiple fence modules and the multiple connectors are assembled to form a fence.

2. Multiple fence modules, A modular fence assembly comprising a plurality of connectors, each connecting two adjacent fence modules from the plurality of fence modules, Each of the aforementioned multiple fence modules A barrier with a pair of substantially parallel endposts, Each fence module is equipped with a base to stabilize it on the surface, The base is disposed substantially perpendicular to the barrier and comprises a substantially flat structure extending from at least a first side of the barrier to a length equal to 25% to 100% of the height of the barrier, The substantially flat structure comprises a gently sloping platform extending downward from the first side of the barrier, the gently sloping platform comprising one or more lower edges that engage with the surface on which the fence module is placed. The bases of the plurality of fence modules are at least partially positioned beneath each other when the plurality of fence modules are stacked, Each of the aforementioned plurality of connectors is configured as a double hinge having a pair of parallel internal channels, Each of the internal channels surrounds one end post of the two adjacent fence modules. A modular fence assembly in which the multiple fence modules and the multiple connectors are assembled to form a fence.

3. Multiple fence modules, A modular fence assembly comprising a plurality of connectors, each connecting two adjacent fence modules from the plurality of fence modules, Each of the aforementioned multiple fence modules A barrier with a pair of substantially parallel endposts, Each fence module is equipped with a base to stabilize it on the surface, The base is disposed substantially perpendicular to the barrier and comprises a substantially flat structure extending from at least a first side of the barrier to a length equal to 25% to 100% of the height of the barrier, Each of the aforementioned plurality of connectors is configured as a double hinge having a pair of parallel internal channels, Each of the internal channels surrounds one end post of the two adjacent fence modules. The plurality of fence modules and the plurality of connectors are assembled to form a fence. A modular fence assembly in which each of the plurality of connectors is configured such that when the assembled fence is folded in a zigzag pattern until all fence modules are parallel with their bases at least partially underneath each other, there is a maximum space of 1 to 10 centimeters between any two adjacent fence modules.

4. Each of the internal channels of the connector is a tubular channel, A modular fence assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein each of the end posts of the barrier has a circular profile that revolves inside the tubular channel.

5. The barrier comprises a grid having a plurality of pickets arranged substantially parallel to the end posts, The modular fence assembly according to claim 2 or 3, wherein each of the internal channels of the connector further surrounds the picket of the barrier.

6. A modular fence assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the base and the barrier are integrally formed.

7. The modular fence assembly according to claim 1, wherein the base is disposed substantially perpendicular to the barrier and comprises a substantially flat structure extending from at least a first side of the barrier to a length equal to 25% to 100% of the height of the barrier from the first side of the barrier.

8. The modular fence assembly according to claim 2, 3, or 7, wherein the substantially flat structure extends from the first side of the barrier to a length equal to 35% to 50% of the height of the barrier.

9. The substantially flat structure comprises a gently sloping platform extending downward from the first side of the barrier, the gently sloping platform comprising one or more lower edges that engage with the surface on which the fence module is placed. The modular fence assembly according to claim 2, 3, 7, or 8, wherein the bases of the plurality of fence modules fit at least partially beneath each other when the plurality of fence modules are stacked.

10. A modular fence assembly according to any one of claims 2, 3, and 7 to 9, wherein the plurality of fence modules and the plurality of connectors are assembled into a fence by connecting the plurality of fence modules in series using the plurality of connectors, wherein in the series the plurality of fence modules alternately have the base extending to one side of the fence and the base extending to the opposite side of the fence.

11. A modular fence assembly according to any one of claims 2, 3, and 7 to 9, wherein the plurality of fence modules and the plurality of connectors are assembled into a fence by connecting the plurality of fence modules in series using the plurality of connectors, and in the series the plurality of fence modules have the base extending to the same side of the fence.

12. A modular fence assembly according to any one of claims 2, 3, and 7 to 11, wherein each of the fence modules further comprises a pair of legs extending from the periphery on the opposite side of the barrier where the base extends from the barrier.

13. A modular fence assembly according to any one of claims 2, 3, and 7 to 11, wherein each of the plurality of connectors is configured such that there is a maximum space of 1 to 10 centimeters between any two adjacent fence modules when the assembled fence is folded in a zigzag pattern until all fence modules are parallel with their bases at least partially underneath each other.

14. A method of using a modular fence assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 13, A method comprising assembling the modular fence assembly into a fence within the poultry house, such that the feeding pipes and / or watering pipes of the poultry house can pass between adjacent fence modules of the fence.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein one or more of the connectors connecting adjacent fence modules through which one of the pipes passes are sized together to occupy at least 70% of the vertical space between the ground of the poultry house and each feeding pipe.

16. The method of claim 14, wherein one or more of the connectors connecting adjacent fence modules through which one of the pipes passes are sized to collectively occupy at least 40% of the vertical space between each feeding pipe and each adjacent fence module.

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