Landscape lighting stake device and method

Abstract

In a device and method for mounting an outdoor fixture, there are provided a fixture adapter, a coupling nut, top and bottom plates, spacers, and a ground screw. The fixture adapter securely and removably mounts the outdoor fixture. The coupling nut securely and removably mounts the fixture adapter. The top plate securely engages the coupling nut. The spacers securely engage the top plate and the bottom plate. The ground screw has a top end portion securely engaging the bottom plate, and a bottom end portion for secure insertion into an underlying landscape, independently of any mounting of the outdoor fixture and fixture adapter. The fixture adapter, coupling nut, top plate, and spacers define wiring throughways for passage therethrough of wiring from the outdoor fixture.

Description

LANDSCAPE LIGHTING STAKE DEVICE AND METHODFIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates generally to landscape lighting and, more particularly, to a landscape lighting stake device and method.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Previously, installation of landscape light fixtures may have involved use of plastic and / or metal spikes. In the prior art, the landscape’s soil may have been prepared at chosen site by digging a small hole and / or loosening the ground to facilitate insertion of the spike. Prior art spikes may have been attached to the bottoms of light fixtures. The spike may have been gently inserted into the prepared soil, utilizing a pointed end of the spike for easy penetration. The height and orientation of the light fixture may have been adjusted to achieve an intended lighting effect.

[0003] Once the fixture was in position, any small spaces around the spike may have been backfilled with soil. It may have been crucial to press the soil firmly to ensure good contact between the spike and the surrounding earth. This step may have contributed to any stability of prior art installations.

[0004] The soil may have been compacted around the prior art spike, e.g., by tamping it down by hand or a suitable tool. This step may have helped to eliminate air pockets and / or contributed to any stability of the fixture in the ground.

[0005] In the prior art, while spikes (e.g., plastic spikes) may have been a common and / or convenient choice for installation, it may have been essential to consider a number of factors - such as, for example, soil type and / or environmental conditions. In some cases, additional measures (e.g., incorporating rocks and / or gravel around the spike) may have been beneficial for increased stability.

[0006] Perhaps somewhat problematically, a substantial and / or increased amount of effort may have been required to properly install a spike and / or fixture in hard ground. Extra work may have been required to create a hole that would accept thespike. This work may have been performed (i) by excavation with a shovel and / or trowel, and / or (ii) by hammering a steel rod into the ground and / or aggressively rotating such a rod to create a conical hole.

[0007] When a landscape light was installed using a prior art spike, the light fixture may have been screwed onto the spike prior to installation, which may have caused one or more negative outcomes, as follow: (A) electrical wires for the light fixture may have been twisted multiple times while screwing the light fixture onto the spike. This may have caused damage to the wires and / or the light fixture. (B) The light fixture, after having been screwed onto the spike, may have been frequently used for leverage during installation of the spike into the ground. The light fixture may have, accordingly or otherwise, been damaged during such installation.

[0008] It may be an object of the invention to provide a stake device and / or method and, more particularly, to provide a landscape lighting stake device and / or method.

[0009] It may be an object according to one aspect of the invention to provide a ground screw stake device for securely installing one or more different devices and / or products.

[0010] It may be an object according to one aspect of the invention to provide for safe passage of a wire or cable through the stake device.

[0011] It may be an object according to one aspect of the invention to provide a screw mechanism that may preferably, but need not necessarily, enable ready insertion into hard ground - e.g., such as clay, compacted gravel, and / or other compacted surfaces.

[0012] It may be an object according to one aspect of the invention to provide a screw mechanism that enables ready installation, for example, by using a standard battery-operated drill, a hand-operated tool, and / or a standard (e.g., 5 / 8-inch) socket wrench.

[0013] It may be an object according to one aspect of the invention to provide a screw mechanism that helps to eliminate, minimize, and / or reduce one or more laborcosts and / or physical efforts that otherwise may be required during installation, i.e., relative to traditional spike systems.

[0014] It may be an object according to one aspect of the invention to provide a screw stake device that can be inserted into the ground prior to mounting of a fixture.

[0015] It may be an object according to one aspect of the invention to provide a screw stake device which may preferably, but need not necessarily, help to avoid, minimize, and / or reduce twisting of a fixture’s wire.

[0016] It may be an object according to one aspect of the invention to provide a screw stake device which may preferably, but need not necessarily, help to avoid, minimize, and / or reduce any requirement to use the fixture as leverage during ground insertion.

[0017] It may be an object according to one aspect of the invention to provide a screw stake device which may preferably, but need not necessarily, help to avoid, minimize, and / or reduce a risk of damage to a fixture during ground-mounting.

[0018] It is an object of the present invention to obviate or mitigate one or more disadvantages and / or shortcomings associated with the prior art, to meet or provide for one or more needs and / or advantages, and / or to achieve one or more objects of the invention - one or more of which may preferably be readily appreciable by and / or suggested to those skilled in the art in view of the teachings and / or disclosures hereof.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0019] According to the invention, there is disclosed a device for mounting an outdoor fixture to an underlying landscape. The device preferably includes a fixture adapter, a coupling nut, one or more plates, and / or a ground screw. Preferably, the fixture adapter is for ready, secure, and / or selectively removable mounting of the outdoor fixture thereon. The coupling nut is preferably for ready, secure, and / or selectively removable mounting of the fixture adapter thereon. Preferably, the plates securely engage the coupling nut. The ground screw preferably has a top end portion and / or a bottom end portion. Preferably, the top end portion securely engages at least one of the plates. The bottom end portion is preferably for readyand / or secure insertion into the underlying landscape. The bottom end portion is preferably adapted for insertion into the underlying landscape, and / or the fixture adapter is adapted for mounting on the coupling nut, as aforesaid, each preferably independent of the other.

[0020] According to an aspect of the invention, the fixture adapter, the coupling nut, and / or the plates may preferably, but need not necessarily, be shaped to define wiring throughways for passage therethrough of wiring from the outdoor fixture.

[0021] According to an aspect of the invention, one or more surfaces of the fixture adapter, the coupling nut, and / or the plates - preferably adjacent to the wiring throughways - may preferably, but need not necessarily, be substantially smooth.

[0022] According to an aspect of the invention, one or more edges of the fixture adapter, the coupling nut, and / or the plates - preferably adjacent to the wiring throughways - may preferably, but need not necessarily, be chamfered.

[0023] According to an aspect of the invention, the plates may preferably, but need not necessarily, include a top plate and / or a bottom plate. The top plate may preferably, but need not necessarily, securely engage the coupling nut. The bottom plate may preferably, but need not necessarily, securely engage the top end portion of the ground screw. The top plate may preferably, but need not necessarily, be shaped to define a plate throughway, preferably for the aforesaid passage therethrough of the wiring from the outdoor fixture. The mounting device may preferably, but need not necessarily, also include one or more spacers, preferably between the top plate and the bottom plate. The spacers may preferably, but need not necessarily, securely engage the top plate and / or the bottom plate. The spacers may preferably, but need not necessarily, define a spacer throughway - preferably between the top plate and the bottom plate - for the aforesaid passage therethrough of the wiring from the outdoor fixture.

[0024] According to an aspect of the invention, the spacers may preferably, but need not necessarily, include spacing tongue members that are integrally constructed together with the bottom plate. The spacing tongue members may preferably, but need not necessarily, extend upwards from the bottom plate, preferably into secure engagement with the top plate.

[0025] According to an aspect of the invention, the fixture adapter may preferably, but need not necessarily, be shaped to define an adapter throughway. The coupling nut may preferably, but need not necessarily, be shaped to define a nut throughway. Each of the adapter throughway and / or the nut throughway may preferably, but need not necessarily, be for the aforesaid passage therethrough of the wiring from the outdoor fixture. Preferably as such, the wiring from the outdoor fixture may preferably, but need not necessarily, pass successively through the adapter throughway, the nut throughway, the plate throughway, and / or the spacer throughway between the top plate and the bottom plate.

[0026] According to an aspect of the invention, a sidewall of the coupling nut may preferably, but need not necessarily, be shaped to define a notch. The notch may preferably, but need not necessarily, access the nut throughway. The notch may preferably, but need not necessarily, be for passage of said wiring from the outdoor fixture, through the notch, and into the nut throughway.

[0027] According to an aspect of the invention, the fixture adapter may preferably, but need not necessarily, be shaped to define an adapter throughway with an upper portion that has an internal thread. The internal thread of the fixture adapter may preferably, but need not necessarily, be for secure threaded engagement with an external factory thread of the outdoor fixture, preferably in selectively removable relation.

[0028] According to an aspect of the invention, the fixture adapter may preferably, but need not necessarily, be shaped to define an adapter throughway with a lower portion that is sized and / or shaped to readily receive at least a portion of the coupling nut therewithin. The lower portion of the adapter throughway may preferably, but need not necessarily, be for the aforesaid mounting of the fixture adapter on the coupling nut, preferably in secure and / or selectively removable relation.

[0029] According to an aspect of the invention, the coupling nut may preferably, but need not necessarily, have a hexagonal shape. The lower portion of the adapter throughway may preferably, but need not necessarily, define a mating hexagonally-shaped chamber. The hexagonal shape of the coupling nut may preferably, but need not necessarily, securely fit into the mating hexagonally-shapedchamber in the lower portion of the adapter throughway, and / or securely engage the fixture adapter, preferably in the aforesaid selectively removable engagement.

[0030] According to an aspect of the invention, a sidewall of the coupling nut may preferably, but need not necessarily, be shaped to define a sidewall taper towards a top portion thereof. The lower portion of the adapter throughway may preferably, but need not necessarily, define a matingly tapered chamber. The sidewall taper of the coupling nut may preferably, but need not necessarily, securely fit into the matingly tapered chamber in the lower portion of the adapter throughway, and / or securely engage the fixture adapter, preferably in the aforesaid selectively removable engagement.

[0031] According to an aspect of the invention, the ground screw may preferably, but need not necessarily, be shaped to define a helical corkscrew.

[0032] According to an aspect of the invention, each of the plates may preferably, but need not necessarily, be shaped to define a disk.

[0033] According to an aspect of the invention, the bottom end portion of the ground screw may preferably, but need not necessarily, have a sharp point for the aforesaid insertion into the underlying landscape.

[0034] According to an aspect of the invention, the device may preferably, but need not necessarily, be constructed from a steel material, a stainless steel material, and / or an aluminum material.

[0035] According to the invention, there is also disclosed a method of mounting an outdoor fixture to an underlying landscape, preferably comprising steps of: (a) providing a fixture adapter preferably for ready, secure, and / or selectively removable mounting of the outdoor fixture thereon; (b) providing a coupling nut preferably for ready, secure, and / or selectively removable mounting of the fixture adapter thereon; (c) providing one or more plates securely engaging the coupling nut; and / or (d) providing a ground screw preferably with a top end portion securely engaging at least one of the plates, and a bottom end portion preferably for ready and / or secure insertion into the underlying landscape. The bottom end portion is preferably adapted for insertion into the underlying landscape, and / or the fixture adapter is preferablyadapted for mounting on the coupling nut, as aforesaid, each preferably independent of the other.

[0036] According to an aspect of the invention, the method may preferably, but need not necessarily, also include step (e) of passing wiring from the outdoor fixture through wiring throughways. The wiring throughways may preferably, but need not necessarily, be defined by the fixture adapter, the coupling nut, and / or the plates.

[0037] According to an aspect of the invention, preferably in step (c), the plates may preferably, but need not necessarily, include a top plate that securely engages the coupling nut, and / or a bottom plate that securely engages the top end portion of the ground screw. The top plate may preferably, but need not necessarily, be shaped to define a plate throughway for passing the wiring from the outdoor fixture therethrough, preferably in step (e). One or more spacers may preferably, but need not necessarily, be provided between the top plate and / or the bottom plate. The spacers may preferably, but need not necessarily, securely engage the top plate and / or the bottom plate. The spacers may preferably, but need not necessarily, define a spacer throughway - preferably between the top plate and / or the bottom plate - preferably for passing the wiring from the outdoor fixture therethrough, preferably in step (e).

[0038] According to an aspect of the invention, preferably in step (a), the fixture adapter may preferably, but need not necessarily, be shaped to define an adapter throughway with an upper portion. The upper portion may preferably, but need not necessarily, have an internal thread. The internal thread of the fixture adapter may preferably, but need not necessarily, securely and / or threadingly engage an external factory thread of the outdoor fixture, preferably in selectively removable relation.

[0039] According to an aspect of the invention, preferably in step (d), the bottom end portion of the ground screw may preferably, but need not necessarily, have a sharp point for the aforesaid insertion into the underlying landscape. The ground screw may preferably, but need not necessarily, be shaped to define a helical corkscrew. The helical corkscrew of the ground screw may preferably, but need not necessarily, be turned clockwise during the aforesaid insertion into the underlying landscape.

[0040] Still further, according to the invention, there is disclosed a landscape lighting stake device and / or method. Preferably, the device includes a screw, which preferably enables easy insertion of the device into hard ground - such as, for example, clay, compacted gravel, and / or other compacted surfaces. The screw preferably enables installation of the device with aid of a standard battery-operated drill, a custom hand-operated tool, and / or a standard (e.g., 5 / 8-inch) socket. Preferably, the device helps reduce labor cost and / or physical effort otherwise required in association with prior art spike systems. The screw may preferably be inserted into the ground before mounting a fixture to it. The device preferably helps (a) avoid and / or reduce twisting of any fixture wire, (b) avoid any required use of the fixture as leverage during ground insertion, and / or (c) prevents and / or reduces a risk of damage to the fixture.

[0041] According to the invention, there is also disclosed a device and / or method for secure installation of a variety of landscape light fixtures and other devices I products.

[0042] According to an aspect of the invention, the device includes a helical fixture mount which may preferably, but need not necessarily, assist with said secure installation via a ground-screw device. The device and / or method may preferably, but need not necessarily, provide for safe passage of a wire or cable through the device. The device and / or method may preferably, but need not necessarily, aid installation of landscape light fixtures, preferably by helping to resolve one or more issues and / or “pain-points” associated with prior art plastic and / or metal spikes.

[0043] According to an aspect of the invention, a novel helical screw is provided which may preferably, but need not necessarily, be used to create a stable platform for mounting of a landscape light. The invention preferably includes a lower disk, spacers, and an upper disk. Preferably, in this way, the invention effectively provides a novel two-part mounting platform. An upper assembly of the invention preferably fastens to the light fixture, and a lower assembly is preferably installed independently. The upper assembly is preferably connected to the lower assembly only after the installer is satisfied with its installation into the landscape. Favorably, the present invention enables installation of an in-ground light platform with the aid of commercially-available power tool.

[0044] According to some aspects of the invention, a custom hand-operated tool may preferably be offered for embodiments of the invention that require it.

[0045] Other advantages, features, and / or characteristics of the present invention, as well as methods of operation and functions of the related elements of the structure, operation, and / or the combination of parts, features, and / or economies of manufacture, will become more apparent upon consideration of the detailed description with reference to the figures which accompany this application, and / or to any figures which may accompany any applications claiming priority herefrom.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0046] The novel features which are believed to be characteristic of the present invention, and related devices, systems, and / or methods according to the present invention, as to their structure, organization, use, and / or methods of manufacture and / or operation, together with further objectives and advantages thereof, may be better understood from the figures which accompany this application, in which presently preferred embodiments of the invention have been illustrated by way of example. It is expressly understood, however, that such figures have been provided for the purpose of illustration and / or description only, and not intended as a definition of the limits of the invention. In the accompanying drawings:

[0047] FIG. 1 is a top front exploded view of a landscape lighting stake device according to a preferred embodiment of the invention;

[0048] FIG. 2 is a top front perspective view of the device of FIG. 1 , shown fully assembled;

[0049] FIG. 3 is a bottom front left perspective view of the device of FIG. 2;

[0050] FIG. 4 is a bottom front perspective exploded view of a fixture adapter and coupling nut of the device of FIG. 1 ;

[0051] FIG. 5 is a side sectional view of the fixture adapter of FIG. 4;

[0052] FIG. 6 is a side elevational view of the coupling nut of FIG. 4;

[0053] FIG. 7 is a top right sectional view of the fixture adapter, coupling nut, top and bottom plates, and spacers of the device of FIG. 2;

[0054] FIG. 8 is a top plan view of the device of FIG. 2;

[0055] FIG. 9 is a top front perspective exploded view of a landscape lighting stake device according to another preferred embodiment of the invention;

[0056] FIG. 10 is a top front perspective exploded view of a landscape lighting stake device according to yet another preferred embodiment of the invention;

[0057] FIG. 11 is a top, front perspective view of the coupling nut of the device of FIG. 9; and

[0058] FIG. 12 is a side sectional view of the coupling nut of FIG. 11 .DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0059] This disclosure, including the accompanying figures, may include or reference one or more dimensions, numbers, materials of construction, words, phrases, sentences, arrangements, and / or configurations which may be included by way of example. It may bear repeating, in this respect specifically, that such figures and / or any such aspects of this disclosure are for the purpose of illustration and description only, and not intended as a definition of the limits of the invention. For example, the device may vary in its overall size, with (corresponding changes to each of its component parts and) one or more miniature versions and / or larger versions falling within the scope of the invention, for securely mounting a variety of other differently-sized products, such as, for example, bird feeders.

[0060] With reference to accompanying FIGS. 1 to 12, there are shown landscape lighting stake devices (alternately, herein, referred to as a “helical fixture mounting device” or, simply, “devices”) 100, 100’, 100” according to a preferred embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIGS. 1-3 and 9-10, the devices 100, 100’, 100” include a screw I stake member (alternately, herein, referred to as a “ground screw”) 60, a bottom plate 20, a top plate 30, a coupling nut 40, and a lighting adapter (alternately, herein, referred to as a “fixture adapter”) 50.

[0061] The ground screw 60 has a helical corkscrew shape (and is alternately, herein, referred to as the “helical corkscrew 60” or “helical coil 60”). Preferably, it is constructed from a steel material, a stainless steel material, an aluminum material, and / or another material. The diameter and / or gauge of the material is preferably suitable to withstand common torque generated by an industry-standard cordless drill and / or impact driver. It may preferably have a diameter of between about 0.3125 inches and about 0.375 inches and, more preferably, a diameter of about 0.3125 inches. The material and its diameter are preferably adapted to withstand typical forces needed to drive the helical corkscrew shape into most materials in the landscape industry.

[0062] The helical corkscrew (or helical coil) 60 is preferably shaped with an outside diameter of about 1.75 inches. The helical coil 60 is preferably turned in a clockwise direction (as indicated by arrow “A” in FIGS. 2 and 8), with appropriate pressure and / or torque, to be driven into an underlying landscape material (not shown). How easily it turns into the material preferably depends on the helical coil’s diameter and / or pitch.

[0063] A bottom end portion 64 of the ground screw 60 is preferably cut (or otherwise shaped) on a 45-degree angle, relative to the pitch of the spiral. This shaping preferably provides a sharp point 66 to help initiate a driving process and / or enables relatively accurate prediction for a final location of the ground screw 60. The sharp point 66 preferably helps to prevent the ground screw 60 from wandering as it turns.

[0064] Preferably, a top end portion 62 of the ground screw 60 is bent at a somewhat more severe angle and / or flattened-off, preferably, to facilitate secure mounting of the bottom plate 20 to the ground screw 60.

[0065] Preferably, the ground screw 60 is secured to a lower surface 26 of the bottom plate 20 by welding and / or casting, and / or integrally formed therewith by injection molding.

[0066] The bottom plate 20 is preferably formed as a disk (e.g., a metal disk) that has a diameter of about 3 inches. It is preferably constructed from a steel material, a stainless steel material, an aluminum material, a brass material, and / or anothermaterial. The disk of the bottom plate 20 is preferably substantially round and / or has a thickness of about 0.13 inches. The bottom plate 20, including in particular an upper surface 24 thereof, is preferably deburred (or otherwise substantially smooth) to help reduce risk of injury to any installers or other users, and / or to help reduce risk of damage to any wire of a mounted lighting fixture (not shown) should they come into contact.

[0067] The device 100 is preferably provided with three spacers 25 (as shown in FIGS. 1-3 and 7-8).

[0068] In another preferred embodiment that is shown in FIG. 9, the device 100’ is provided with a ground screw 60’, a bottom plate 20’, four spacers 25’, a top plate 30’, a coupling nut 40’, and a fixture adapter 50’. And, in yet another preferred embodiment that is shown in FIG. 10, the device 100” is provided with a ground screw 60”, a bottom plate 20”, two spacers 25”, a top plate 30”, a coupling nut 40”, and a fixture adapter 50” (as shown in FIG. 10). Much of the following description refers to the spacers 25 and / or to the device 100 shown in FIGS. 1 to 8, or to other components thereof. That said, persons having ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate that much of this description shall apply mutatis mutandis to the spacers 25’, 25” and / or to the devices 100’, 100” that are shown in FIGS. 9 to 12, or to other components thereof - e.g., the ground screws 60’, 60”, bottom plates 20’, 20”, top plates 30’, 30”, coupling nuts 40’, 40”, and / or fixture adapters 50’, 50”.

[0069] In the preferred embodiment of the device 100 that is depicted in FIGS. 1 to 8 - and as perhaps best seen in FIGS. 1-3 and 7 - the bottom plate 20 is preferably shaped and / or formed to provide three built-in spacers 25. In this regard, the bottom plate 20 is preferably shaped such that the three spacers 25 are provided in the form of three spacing tongue members extending upward from the disk of the bottom plate 20 to a height of about 0.38 inches thereabove. (Likewise, in the preferred embodiment of the device 100’ that is depicted in FIG. 9, the bottom plate 20’ is preferably shaped and / or formed to provide four built-in spacers 25’. In this regard, the bottom plate 20’ is preferably shaped such that the four spacers 25’ are provided in the form of four spacing tongue members extending upward from an outer portion 22 of the disk of the bottom plate 20’ to a height of about 0.38 inches thereabove.)

[0070] Preferably, the spacers (alternately, herein, the “spacing tongue members”) 25 are substantially smooth to prevent and / or reduce damage to the wires of the mounted lighting fixture (not shown) as it is passed through the device 100. The spacing tongue members 25 preferably provide a spacer throughway 28 for the lighting wire (not shown) between them and between the top plate 30 and bottom plate 20. Preferably, as the wire is passed through the coupling nut 40, it is led into the spacer throughway 28 between the top plate 30 and bottom plate 20, between the spacing tongue members 25, and out the side of the device 100. The spacing tongue members 25 preferably afford space for the wire (not shown) and help to create a secure connection between the top plate 30 and bottom plate 20.

[0071] In the preferred embodiment of the device 100” that is depicted in FIG. 10, the spacers 25” are preferably made from one or more materials that are compatible with the bottom plate 20” and top plate 30”, and / or may be welded to the bottom plate 20” and top plate 30”. As shown in FIG. 10, the spacers 25” are preferably about 1.19 inches long and about 0.5 inches in width, with a thickness of about 0.38 inches. Preferably, edges of the spacers 25” are radiused (rather than provided with sharp corner edges), preferably, to prevent and / or reduce damage to the wires of the mounted lighting fixture (not shown) as it is passed through the device 100”. The spacers 25” preferably provide a throughway for such lighting wire (not shown). Preferably, as the wire is passed through the coupling nut 40”, it is led between the bottom plate 20” and top plate 30” and out the side of the device 100”. The spacers 25” preferably afford space for the wire (not shown) and help to create a secure connection between the bottom plate 20” and top plate 30”.

[0072] In the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 1-8, the top plate 30 is preferably constructed from a material that is compatible with one or more other components of the device. The top plate 30 is preferably substantially round, with a diameter of about 3.75 inches. As best seen in FIG. 1 , a plate throughway 32 is shaped roughly in the center of the top plate 30. It has a hexagonal shape and is sized to securely receive the coupling nut 40 therein, as shown in FIG. 7. (Whereas, in the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 9 and 10, the plate throughway 32 may be roughly round with a diameter of about 0.5 inches, and shaped roughly in the center of the top plate 30.) The plate throughway 32 is preferably chamfered with a 0.6 x 45degree chamfer and / or grommet. The plate throughway 32 preferably enables the lighting wire to pass therethrough, and through the top plate 30, between the top plate 30 and bottom plate 20, and out between the spacers 25 extending upwards from the bottom plate 20. The chamfer of the top plate 30 preferably helps to prevent damage to the lighting wire (not shown). A lower surface 34 of the top plate is preferably deburred to help make it smooth and / or prevent potential harm or damage to installers and / or to the light wire. The top plate 30 preferably has a thickness of about 0.13 inches.

[0073] The top plate 30 may be painted and / or otherwise finished in a fashion to match a finish of the lighting fixture (not shown). The spacing tongue members 25 preferably extend into spacer mounting holes 35 that are formed in the top plate 30. The spacers 25 are preferably welded, press fit, or otherwise secured to the top plate 30, adjacent to the spacer mounting holes 35, to create a strong connection.

[0074] The coupling nut 40 is preferably constructed from a material that is compatible with one or more other components of the device 100. The coupling nut 40 preferably has a hexagonal shape, with a width of about 0.625 inches between opposing segments of the hexagon. The coupling nut 40 is preferably about 1.25 inches tall. Preferably, the coupling nut member 40 has a hole bored on-center, through the length of its hexagonal shape, with a diameter of about 0.45 inches to define a nut throughway 42. The nut throughway 42 preferably enables passage of the light wire from the fixture (not shown), through the coupling nut 40, and between the top plate 30 and bottom plate 20. The coupling nut 40 is preferably provided with a smooth internal surface 42A along the nut throughway 42 to help protect a wire (not shown) of the light fixture against damage that otherwise might be sustained from a rougher surface. The top outer edge of the nut throughway 42 preferably has a chamfered edge 44 with a 0.05 x 45 degree chamfer and / or grommet, preferably, to help prevent damage to the lighting wire (not shown). The coupling nut 40 is preferably welded, press fit, or otherwise secured to the top plate 30, adjacent to the plate throughway 32, to create a strong connection.

[0075] The coupling nut 40 preferably features a notch 48 that facilitates passage of a wire (not shown) through the assembly, thereby improving ease of installation. In use, the notch 48 helps reduce an angle at which the wire must be threaded, and / orhelps to minimize resistance and / or to streamline the fishing process for the installer. In addition or instead, the notch 48 preferably enables the coupling nut 40 to be torqued into the ground even after the fixture has been wired, and / or even after the wire extends through nut throughway 42. This design for the notch 48 of the coupling nut 40 preferably helps ensure that the wire remains unobstructed when a socket tool (not shown) is applied to the coupling nut 40, allowing for secure installation without the risk of wire damage or displacement. While the size and shape of the notch 48 may vary, it preferably helps to enhance wire clearance and installation efficiency.

[0076] The coupling nut 40 preferably accepts the fixture adapter 50 of the device 100 (and any additional parts of an upper lighting fixture assembly) and / or preferably helps stabilize the lighting fixture (not shown). The hexagonal shape of the coupling nut 40 preferably enables installation of a lower assembly - e.g., the groundscrew 60, the bottom plate 20, the top plate 30, and the coupling nut 40 - of the device 100 into the underlying landscape (not shown) using commonly available tools, e.g., a 5 / 8 inch socket.

[0077] The upper lighting fixture assembly preferably includes the fixture adapter 50. The fixture adapter 50 preferably has a cylindrical shape and / or is about 2.13 inches tall. The outside diameter of the cylindrical shape may be variable and / or manufactured to match the light fixture. The fixture adapter 50 preferably securely engages a landscape fixture (not shown), e.g., a landscape light fixture. This secure engagement is preferably via a male thread on the landscape fixture and a female I internal thread 54 on the fixture adapter 50 (as perhaps best seen in FIGS. 5 and 7). The internal thread 54 preferably matches a factory thread on the landscape fixture.

[0078] Preferably, the fixture adapter 50 is shaped to define an adapter throughway 52 that enables the light’s wire (not shown) to pass therethrough. An upper portion 52A of the adapter throughway 52 is preferably with the internal thread 54 - e.g., with a 0.5-14 NPSM thread (or similar). Preferably, the threaded section 54 has a length of about 0.875 inches. A lower portion 52B of the adapter throughway 52 is preferably provided with a mating chamber 56 that has a hexagonal shape which enables secure engagement with the coupling nut 40 of the lower assembly. The fixture adapter 50 preferably helps to securely affix the light fixture (not shown)to the lower assembly. The fixture adapter 50 is preferably provided with one or more chamfered edges 58 adjacent to the adapter throughway 52 to help protect a wire (not shown) of the light fixture against damage that otherwise might be sustained from a sharper edge.

[0079] This fixture adapter 50 may be finished to match the light fixture (not shown) and / or may be provided in a variety of different exterior shapes - e.g., square, octagonal, hexagonal, and / or round. Apart from its exterior shape, an internal structure of the fixture adapter 50 (including the upper portion 52A and lower portion 52B of the adapter throughway 52) preferably enables secure engagement between the light fixture and the coupling nut 40 of the lower assembly.

[0080] Persons skilled in the art will appreciate in view of the teachings and disclosures herein that the landscape lighting stake device 100 and / or method, according to the invention, preferably offers one or more significant advantageous utilities and / or functionalities in comparison to the prior art.

[0081] To put it another way, the device 100 preferably includes a substantially helical screw (designed akin to a traditional corkscrew) 60 at the bottom, which preferably serves as an anchoring element. Its helical design - e.g., made from materials like steel and / or aluminum - preferably enables it to be efficiently screwed I driven into various landscape materials using industry-standard cordless drills and / or impact drivers. The diameter and / or pitch of the screw 60, along with its sharp 45-degree angled point 66, preferably help to ensure effective penetration into the landscape (not shown).

[0082] Preferably, above the helical screw 60, the metal disk of the lower plate 20 is securely welded. This disk 20 - e.g., about 3 inches in diameter and / or about 0.13 inches thick - preferably helps act as a foundation for the rest of the device 100. Its edges and upper surface 24 are preferably deburred to help make them smooth and / or prevent potential harm or damage to installers and / or to the light wire (not shown).

[0083] The assembly is further reinforced by spacers 25, 25’ whether formed integrally with the bottom plate 20, 20’ and / or provided as a separate component 25” that is welded to the bottom plate 20, 20’. In either case, the spacers 25, 25’ 25” arepreferably welded to the top plate 30, 30’ 30”, and / or help to create a secure connection. Their design preferably helps to ensure safe passage of the lighting wire (not shown) through the device 100, 100’, 100”. This configuration may preferably help maintain a secure connection between components of the lower assembly and / or help withstand torque during installation.

[0084] The securely welded top plate 30 - e.g., about 3.75 inches in diameter - preferably complements the spacers 25 and / or creates a robust connection. Its central throughway 32 is preferably chamfered to help protect the lighting wire (not shown), and / or to facilitate smooth passage of the wire between the top plate 30 and bottom plate 20.

[0085] The hexagonally-shaped coupling nut 40 - e.g., about 0.625 inches wide - preferably helps stabilize the light fixture (not shown). This nut 40 is preferably welded to the top plate 30, securely engages the upper assembly I fixture adapter 50, and / or allows for easy installation using commonly available tools (e.g., such as a 5 / 8-inch socket). As best seen in FIGS. 6 and 12, the coupling nut 40, 40’ preferably has an external surface 46 that is at least slightly tapered, i.e., as indicated by angle “B”. For example, in some preferred embodiments, the tapering angle “B” of the external surface 46 is in the order of about 90.75 degrees. The tapering angle “B” of the external surface 46 preferably helps to more securely mount the device 100, 100’ and / or light fixture (not shown).

[0086] The upper assembly preferably includes the fixture adapter 50 - i.e., a cylindrical structure that securely engages a landscape light fixture (not shown) and the coupling nut 40 of the lower assembly. The fixture adapter 50 is preferably designed with an outer diameter that can vary to match a base of the light fixture. It preferably connects via a factory male thread (not shown) on the light fixture and female I internal threads 54 in the upper portion 52A of the adapter throughway 52. This throughway 52 preferably accommodates the lighting wire (not shown), preferably with a threaded upper section 52A and / or a hexagonal lower portion 52B that seamlessly fits onto the coupling nut 40 of the lower assembly. The fixture adapter 50 is preferably designed for secure engagement between the light (not shown) and the coupling nut 40 of the lower assembly.

[0087] In summary, the component parts of the invention preferably work together, cohesively, to provide a secure, stable, and / or easily installable device 100, 100’, 100” for landscape lighting fixtures. The lower assembly (including the coupling nut 40, the plates 20, 30, the spacers 25, and the ground screw 60) preferably provides an anchor and / or wire chase. Whereas, the upper assembly - i.e. , the fixture adapter 50 - preferably creates a substantially universal attachment for landscape light fixtures and / or other products I fixtures (not shown) that may require a solid foundation.

[0088] As an aside, instead of (or in addition to) securely engaging landscape light fixtures, the present invention is preferably also adapted for securely mounting a variety of other products, which may require a solid foundation - e.g., including, but not limited to, outdoor speakers, satellite dishes, yard games, and / or landscape construction-based products (e.g., power tools, measuring equipment, and / or task lighting) that may need to be temporarily and / or permanently mounted.

[0089] Together, the component parts of the present invention preferably provide a robust and / or functional assembly for installing and / or connecting light fixtures and / or other products I fixtures in a variety of outdoor settings.

[0090] Preferably, the invention helps provide for one or more advantages over the prior art - and / or helps to solve, obviate, and / or mitigate one or more problems associated with the prior art - including (but not limited to) those described below and / or elsewhere herein.

[0091] As detailed herein, the invention preferably provides for (A) secure anchoring, (B) versatility in installation, (C) wire protection, (D) ease of use, (E) a customized upper assembly, (F) efficient wire passage, and / or (G) a sturdy construction, among other things.

[0092] The helical screw 60 preferably provides for (A) secure anchoring, preferably ensuring stability in various types of terrain. Preferably, this functionality may be especially advantageous in areas with hard ground, and / or where prior art mounting methods may have made for difficult installation and / or required more labor to loosen the ground before installation.

[0093] As aforesaid, the invention preferably provides for (B) versatility in installation. For example, the use of a cordless drill and / or impact driver for driving the helical screw 60 may preferably enable quicker and / or more convenient installations. Preferably, this functionality may be especially beneficial in large-scale landscaping projects, and / or where efficiency may be especially important.

[0094] Also preferably, with the helical design of the anchor assembly 60, an installer may easily install the device 100 into difficult ground - e.g., such as clay, gravel, and / or compacted soils - with comparatively little physical effort and / or time involved.

[0095] Preferably, the light fixture need not be threaded onto the fixture adapter 50, and / or the fixture adapter 50 need not be secured to the coupling nut 40, before installation. As such, the invention preferably helps to avoid and / or reduce potential damage to the fixture itself.

[0096] As aforesaid, the invention preferably provides for (C) wire protection. The device 100 preferably includes spacers 25 that help to create a secure connection and / or to protect the lighting wire (not shown) against damage. The spacers 25 and chamfered edges on the plates 20, 30 may preferably help avoid and / or reduce the wire from being compromised during installation. A larger diameter top plate 30 preferably helps protect the wire as it makes its way below grade to the connection point.

[0097] The invention preferably provides for (D) ease of use. The hexagonal coupling nut 40 preferably facilitates easy installation and / or removal using commonly-available tools, e.g., a 5 / 8-inch socket. This compatibility preferably helps to simplify an installation process and / or facilitates ready adjustments and / or replacements as needed.

[0098] The invention preferably provides for (E) a customizable fixture adapter 50. The fixture adapter 50, with its threaded adapter throughway 52, preferably provides flexibility in connecting various different light fixtures (and / or other items) with different shapes and / or sizes. This interoperability preferably affords customization and / or adaptation in concert with a variety of different light fixture designs and / or other items.

[0099] The invention preferably provides for (F) efficient wire passage. The top plate 30 and / or coupling nut 40 preferably help ensure smooth passage for the lighting wire (not shown), preferably minimizing or reducing a risk of damage thereto. The invention’s chamfered edges 58, 44 and / or careful consideration for wire routing preferably help contribute to a reliable and / or safe electrical connection.

[0100] The fixture adapter 50 is preferably screwed onto the light fixture (or other item) without twisting the wire. This advantage is preferably achieved, perhaps at least in part, by having a smooth throughway 52, 42, 32, 28 fabricated into the various components of the device.

[0101] The invention provides for (G) a sturdy construction. The welding (or other secure engagement) of component parts of the device 100 - e.g., such as the welding of the top plate 30 to the coupling nut 40 and / or to the spacers 25 - preferably helps to create a sturdy and / or durable assembly. This feature preferably helps to ensure longevity and / or reliability in outdoor settings, and / or when exposed to various weather conditions.

[0102] As described, the device 100 preferably affords advantages in terms of secure anchoring, efficiency in installation, wire protection, ease of use, customization, and / or sturdy construction. These features preferably contribute, individually and / or collectively, to a more reliable and / or user-friendly solution for mounting landscape lights - e.g., as compared to prior art methods. Favorably, the invention affords time-savings for installers and / or helps reduce one or more risks of damage to the fixture and / or its components.

[0103] The invention is contemplated for use by or in association with landscape light fixtures, as described above. The invention, however, is not so limited. (For example, the present invention is preferably also adapted for securely mounting a variety of other products, which may require a solid foundation including, but not limited to, outdoor speakers, satellite dishes, yard games, bird feeders, power tools, measuring equipment, task lighting, and / or other construction-based products that may need to be temporarily and / or permanently mounted.) And, in any event, other embodiments, which fall within the scope of the invention, may be provided.

[0104] Future improvements or modifications to the idea may preferably, but need not necessarily, include (among other things) a variety of different fixture adapters 50 to match the various different products that are being anchored. These fixture adapters 50 could include different shapes, sizes, finishes, and / or materials. For example, for light fixtures with square tube bases, the fixture adapter 50 may be provided in the shape of a square tube that matches the aesthetics of the fixture. Similarly, as mentioned elsewhere herein, the device 100 may vary in its overall size, with (corresponding changes to each of its component parts and) one or more miniature versions and / or larger versions falling within the scope of the invention, for securely mounting a variety of other differently-sized products, such as, for example, bird feeders.

[0105] The invention’s design may be altered for a variety of different landscapes and / or ground materials. For example, in some embodiments and / or applications, the diameter of the helical screw 60 (and the design of the other components) may be changed - e.g., preferably to reduce manufacturing costs, without sacrificing sturdiness and / or performance. The thickness, dimensions, and / or materials of construction may be changed depending on the need and / or desired application, and / or in an ongoing effort to optimize manufacturing costs, in comparison to necessary and / or desired performance for efficiency, durability, and / or accessibility.

[0106] In the future, the device 100 may optionally include an internal junction box for connection of wires within the device itself.

[0107] Lastly, this invention may preferably be offered for use in association with other industries - e.g., including (but not limited to) military, construction, communications, and / or sporting goods.

[0108] The foregoing description has been presented for the purpose of illustration and is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed.

[0109] Naturally, in view of the teachings and disclosures herein, persons having ordinary skill in the art may appreciate that alternate designs and / or embodiments of the invention may be possible (e.g., with substitution of one or more components for others, with alternate configurations of components, etc). Although some of thecomponents, relations, configurations and / or steps according to the invention are not specifically referenced in association with one another, they may be used, and / or adapted for use, in association therewith. All of the aforementioned and various other structures, configurations, relationships, utilities, any which may be depicted and / or based hereon, and the like may be, but are not necessarily, incorporated into and / or achieved by the invention. Any one or more of the aforementioned structures, configurations, relationships, utilities and the like may be implemented in and / or by the invention, on their own, and / or without reference, regard or likewise implementation of any of the other aforementioned structures, configurations, relationships, utilities and the like, in various permutations and combinations, as will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, without departing from the pith, marrow, and spirit of the disclosed invention.

[0110] Other modifications and alterations may be used in the design, manufacture, and / or implementation of other embodiments according to the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, which is limited only by the claims of this patent application and any patent applications claiming priority herefrom.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A device for mounting an outdoor fixture to an underlying landscape comprising: a fixture adapter for ready, secure, and selectively removable mounting of the outdoor fixture thereon; a coupling nut for ready, secure, and selectively removable mounting of the fixture adapter thereon; one or more plates securely engaging the coupling nut; and a ground screw with a top end portion securely engaging at least one of the plates, and a bottom end portion for ready and secure insertion into the underlying landscape; wherein the bottom end portion is adapted for insertion into the underlying landscape, and the fixture adapter is adapted for mounting on the coupling nut, as aforesaid, each independent of the other.

2. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the fixture adapter, the coupling nut, and the plates are shaped to define wiring throughways for passage therethrough of wiring from the outdoor fixture.

3. The device according to claim 2, wherein one or more surfaces of the fixture adapter, the coupling nut, and the plates, adjacent to said wiring throughways, are substantially smooth.

4. The device according to any one of claims 2 to 3, wherein one or more edges of the fixture adapter, the coupling nut, and the plates, adjacent to said wiring throughways, are chamfered.

5. The device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the plates comprise a top plate that securely engages the coupling nut, and a bottom plate that securely engages the top end portion of the ground screw; wherein the top plate is shaped to define a plate throughway for said passage therethrough of said wiring from the outdoor fixture; wherein the mounting device further comprises one or more spacers between the top plate and the bottom plate, with the spacers securely engaging the top plate and the bottom plate; and wherein the spacers define a spacer throughway,between the top plate and the bottom plate, for said passage therethrough of said wiring from the outdoor fixture.

6. The device according to claim 5, wherein the spacers comprise spacing tongue members that are integrally constructed together with the bottom plate, and wherein the spacing tongue members extend upwards from the bottom plate into secure engagement with the top plate.

7. The device according to any one of claims 5 to 6, wherein the fixture adapter is shaped to define an adapter throughway, and the coupling nut is shaped to define a nut throughway, each for said passage therethrough of said wiring from the outdoor fixture, such that said wiring from the outdoor fixture passes successively through the adapter throughway, the nut throughway, the plate throughway, and the spacer throughway between the top plate and the bottom plate.

8. The device according to claim 7, wherein a sidewall of the coupling nut is shaped to define a notch; wherein the notch accesses the nut throughway for passage of said wiring from the outdoor fixture, through the notch, and into the nut throughway.

9. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the fixture adapter is shaped to define an adapter throughway with an upper portion that has an internal thread; wherein the internal thread of the fixture adapter is for secure threaded engagement with an external factory thread of the outdoor fixture, in selectively removable relation.

10. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the fixture adapter is shaped to define an adapter throughway with a lower portion that is sized and shaped to readily receive at least a portion of the coupling nut therewithin, for said mounting of the fixture adapter on the coupling nut, in secure and selectively removable relation.

11. The device according to claim 10, wherein the coupling nut has a hexagonal shape, and the lower portion of the adapter throughway defines a mating hexagonally-shaped chamber; wherein the hexagonal shape of the coupling nut securely fits into the mating hexagonally-shaped chamber in the lower portion of theadapter throughway, and securely engages the fixture adapter, in said selectively removable engagement.

12. The device according to claim 10, wherein a sidewall of the coupling nut is shaped to define a sidewall taper towards a top portion thereof, and the lower portion of the adapter throughway defines a matingly tapered chamber; wherein the sidewall taper of the coupling nut securely fits into the matingly tapered chamber in the lower portion of the adapter throughway, and securely engages the fixture adapter, in said selectively removable engagement.

13. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the ground screw is shaped to define a helical corkscrew.

14. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the bottom end portion of the ground screw has a sharp point for said insertion into the underlying landscape.

15. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 14 constructed from a steel material, a stainless steel material, and / or an aluminum material.

16. A method of mounting an outdoor fixture to an underlying landscape comprising steps of:(a) providing a fixture adapter for ready, secure, and selectively removable mounting of the outdoor fixture thereon;(b) providing a coupling nut for ready, secure, and selectively removable mounting of the fixture adapter thereon;(c) providing one or more plates securely engaging the coupling nut; and(d) providing a ground screw with a top end portion securely engaging at least one of the plates, and a bottom end portion for ready and secure insertion into the underlying landscape; wherein the bottom end portion is adapted for insertion into the underlying landscape, and the fixture adapter is adapted for mounting on the coupling nut, as aforesaid, each independent of the other.

17. The method according to claim 16, further comprising step (e) of passing wiring from the outdoor fixture through wiring throughways that are defined by the fixture adapter, the coupling nut, and the plates.

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein in step (c): the plates comprise a top plate that securely engages the coupling nut, and a bottom plate that securely engages the top end portion of the ground screw; the top plate is shaped to define a plate throughway for passing the wiring from the outdoor fixture therethrough in step (e); one or more spacers are provided between the top plate and the bottom plate, with the spacers securely engaging the top plate and the bottom plate; and the spacers define a spacer throughway, between the top plate and the bottom plate, for passing the wiring from the outdoor fixture therethrough in step (e).

19. The method according to any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein in step (a): the fixture adapter is shaped to define an adapter throughway with an upper portion that has an internal thread; and the internal thread of the fixture adapter securely and threadingly engages an external factory thread of the outdoor fixture, in selectively removable relation.

20. A method according to any one of claims 16 to 19, wherein in step (d): the bottom end portion of the ground screw has a sharp point for said insertion into the underlying landscape; the ground screw is shaped to define a helical corkscrew; the helical corkscrew of the ground screw is turned clockwise during said insertion into the underlying landscape.

Images