Hollow Post Fence with Through-Bracket Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fences are costly to produce due to complex post shapes, have weak points from brackets attached to the outer surface, are difficult to install, and lack symmetry and aesthetic appeal, with panels often overlapping or being attached asymmetrically.
Innovation Solution
A fence system using hollow posts with mounting brackets that pass through slots or openings, allowing panels to be connected symmetrically and securely without overlapping, using a first and second mounting element connected by a connecting element, which can be installed efficiently and aesthetically matched on both sides.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If brackets are attached to the outer surface of posts, then panels can be connected to posts, but weak points are created in the fence structure
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket is inserted through the hollow post, with portions of the bracket nested inside the post cavity and portions extending outside. This nesting approach eliminates external attachment hardware while maintaining secure panel connection, resolving the contradiction between structural integrity and mounting complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting bracket acts as an intermediary element that passes through the hollow post, connecting the panel to the post structure without requiring external surface attachment. This mediator approach strengthens the fence by eliminating weak external attachment points while keeping the mounting system simple
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex post shapes are used, then panels can be attached with brackets or clips, but production costs increase and adaptability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The hollow post design with simple cylindrical shape serves multiple functions: structural support, conduit for mounting brackets, and adaptable base for various panel configurations. This universal design eliminates the need for complex shaped posts while maintaining attachment capabilities and enabling easy adaptation to different fence configurations
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the key parameter of post geometry from complex shapes to simple hollow cylinders. This parameter change simplifies manufacturing while the hollow interior provides the necessary functionality for bracket insertion and panel attachment, achieving both cost-effectiveness and design adaptability
3Ease of operation
If panels are connected with brackets on post surface, then panels can be attached to posts, but installation difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket is pre-inserted through the hollow post before panel attachment. This preliminary action simplifies installation by eliminating the need for external drilling or fastening operations, while the bracket's position within the post ensures strong, reliable panel connection
4Shape
If panels are mounted asymmetrically, then installation is simplified, but aesthetic appeal and symmetry are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket design intentionally uses asymmetry in its construction (with different interior and exterior portions) to achieve symmetric visual appearance when installed. The asymmetric bracket orientation allows panels to be mounted symmetrically on both sides of the post, combining aesthetic symmetry with installation efficiency
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
AI summary
The present invention concerns a fence comprising: - a repetition of hollow posts, wherein each of the hollow posts is erected vertically; and - panels, wherein each of the panels is mounted between two successive hollow posts; and wherein panels are mounted on the hollow posts with at least one mounting bracket; wherein the mounting bracket is provided through the hollow post; or the mounting bracket engages in the cavity of the hollow post; and wherein successive panels (3) are connected together with at least one mounting bracket (4). The invention furthermore provides a kit for producing the fence and methods for producing the fence.