AU2016202129A1 - Barrier arrangement, slat arrangement and insert therefor - Google Patents

Abstract

Abstract The present invention relates to a barrier arrangement such as a fence or a gate that utilises a specially shaped slats that engage with a spacing insert along its length to separate the slats from each other. The present invention further relates to a slat and a spacing insert for use in the barrier arrangement. r4 cnC r4C r4 r4 r4 J rJi bfl en rJi en rHi rJi

Description

1 2016202129 05 Apr 2016

BARRIER ARRANGEMENT, SLAT ARRANGEMENT AND INSERT THEREFOR

Field of the Invention [1] The present invention relates to a barrier arrangement, slat arrangement and insert therefor, and in particular to a barrier arrangement, slat arrangement and insert for use in gates, fences or louvres.

[2] The invention has been developed primarily for use in/with gates or fences and will be described hereinafter with reference to this application. However, it will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to this particular field of use.

Background of the Invention [3] Currently, gates and fences used around the outside of properties can comprise of a steel frame that is welded together, with slats (typically composed of wood) being individually affixed to the steel frame.

[4] The present invention seeks to provide a barrier arrangement and slat therefore, which will overcome or substantially ameliorate at least some of the deficiencies of the prior art, or to at least provide an alternative.

[5] It is to be understood that, if any prior art information is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the information forms part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country.

Summary of the Invention [6] According to a first aspect, the present invention may be said to consist in a barrier arrangement for restricting access to a zone, the barrier arrangement comprising a. a plurality of slat arrangements, each slat arrangement comprising at least one or more engaging slot configured for receiving at least one insert; b. an insert configured for spacing adjacent slat arrangement from each other, the insert will being configured for being received into the engaging slot of the slat arrangement.

[7] in one embodiment, the barrier arrangement comprises at least one support member configured for directly or indirectly supporting the at least one or more slat arrangements.

[8] In one embodiment, the slat arrangements and the at least one support member are configured for snug engagement with each other. 2 2016202129 05 Apr 2016 [9] In one embodiment, the at least one or more support member is configured for at least partly defining the perimeter of the barrier arrangement.

[10] In one embodiment, the support member is configured to support the insert.

[11] In one embodiment, the support member configured to support the slat arrangement indirectly by supporting the insert.

[12] In one embodiment, the support member defines a channel extending substantially along its length.

[13] In one embodiment, at least an end portion of the slat arrangement is configured to be snugly engageable in the channel of the support member.

[14] In one embodiment, the insert is configured to be slidably engaged or engageable with the channel of the support member.

[15] in one embodiment, the insert is configured to be slidably engaged or engageable with the channel of the support member in a fashion that restricts removal of the insert from the channel in a direction transverse to the support member.

[16] In one embodiment, the engaging slot of the slat arrangement is configured for securely receiving the insert.

[17] in one embodiment, the support member defines a sliding engaging formation configured for allowing insertion of an insert into the channel from a direction substantially parallel to the length of the support member.

[18] In one embodiment, the sliding engaging formation prevents withdrawal of an insert from fhe channel in a direction transverse to the length of the support member.

[19] In one embodiment, the sliding engaging formation is a restricted neck formation extending along the channel.

[20] In one embodiment, the insert comprises a sliding engaging formation for sliding engagement with the restricted neck formation of the support member.

[21] Slat arrangement [22] In one embodiment, the slat arrangement is substantially elongate.

[23] In one embodiment, the slat arrangement comprises an elongate body.

[24] In one embodiment, the slat arrangement is substantially rectangular in crosssection. 3 2016202129 05 Apr 2016 [25] In one embodiment, the slat arrangement defines a pair of major faces and a pair of minor faces.

[26] In one embodiment, the engaging slot is located on at least one of the minor faces.

[27] In one embodiment, the slat arrangement comprises a plurality of engaging slots.

[28] In one embodiment, the engaging slots are located on both of the minor faces.

[29] In one embodiment, the slat arrangement defines a sliding securing formation configured for allowing insertion of an insert into the engaging slot from a direction substantially parallel to the length of the slat arrangement.

[30] In one embodiment, the sliding securing formation prevents withdrawal of an insert from the engaging slot in a direction transverse to the length of the slat arrangement.

[31] In one embodiment, the engaging slot defines a restricted neck formation to create a sliding securing formation.

[32] In one embodiment, the sliding securing formation is defined by a restricted neck formation in the engaging slot.

[33] In one embodiment, the slat arrangement is extruded.

[34] In one embodiment, the slat arrangement comprises at least one or more protrusions.

[35] In one embodiment, the protrusions extend transversely from the slat arrangement

Perimeter [36] In one embodiment, the at least one or more support members are configured to be securely engageable to each other.

[37] In one embodiment, the at least one or more support members are configured to be securely engageable to each other by fasteners.

[38] In one embodiment, the at least one or more support members are configured to be securely engageable to each other to define the full perimeter of the barrier arrangement. 4 2016202129 05 Apr 2016 [39] In one embodiment, the barrier arrangement comprises at least two support members extending substantially vertically.

[40] in one embodiment, the perimeter of the barrier arrangement is defined by at least two support members extending substantially vertically, and at least one or more connector members extending substantially horizontally between the support members.

[41 ] In one embodiment, the full perimeter of the barrier arrangement comprises at least two support members extending substantially vertically, and at least two connector members extending substantially horizontally.

Inserts [42] In one embodiment, the insert comprises complementary engaging formations configured for engaging with the sliding securing formation of the slat arrangement.

[43] In one embodiment, the insert comprises a spacer insert configured to space one slat arrangement from an adjacent slat arrangement.

[44] In one embodiment, the spacer insert is dimensioned and configured to extend between adjacent slat arrangements within the complementary channel of a support member.

[45] In one embodiment, the spacer insert is dimensioned and configured to extend between adjacent slat arrangements within the complementary channel of a support member without extending from the complimentary channel.

[46] In one embodiment, the insert comprises holding formations for engaging with and/or holding and/or securing gate accessories.

[47] In one embodiment, the insert comprises sliding engaging formations configured for sliding engagement with the restricted neck formation of the channel in the support member.

[48] In one embodiment, the insert comprises at least one or more spacing formations for spacing the insert from an inner surface of the channel.

[49] In one embodiment, the insert comprises a ventilation insert, configured for spacing adjacent slat arrangements from each other while guiding movement of air through the space formed between adjacent slat arrangements.

[50] In one embodiment, the insert comprises a viewing insert, wherein the viewing insert is at least partially transparent. 5 2016202129 05 Apr 2016 [51] In one embodiment, the viewing insert is at least partially translucent.

[52] In one embodiment, the insert comprises a coloured insert, wherein the coloured insert is of a different colour to the slat arrangements.

[53] In one embodiment, the insert comprises a translucent coloured insert, for allowing coloured light to pass between adjacent slat arrangements.

[54] In one embodiment, the spacer insert is frangible.

[55] In one embodiment, the spacer insert comprises zones of engineered weakness at which the spacer insert can be broken off.

[56] In one embodiment, the barrier arrangement can comprise a locking adjustment arrangement configured for adjustably supporting a slat arrangement on a support member.

[57] In one embodiment, the locking adjustment arrangement is configured for movement along the length of a support member.

[58] In one embodiment, the locking adjustment arrangement is configured to be fastened to a support member, and provide support to a slat arrangement in a wide variety of positions along the length of a support member.

[59] in one embodiment, the locking adjustment arrangement comprises a fastener engageable with a support formation.

[60] In one embodiment, the locking adjustment arrangement comprises a screw formation engageable with a complimentary screw thread formation on the support formation.

[61] According to a further aspect, the present invention may be said to consist in a slat arrangement for a barrier arrangement, the slat arrangement comprising a. an elongate body; and b. an engaging slot formation extending along the elongate body, the slot formation being configured for receiving inserts.

[62] The slat arrangement as claimed in claim 36), wherein the elongate body is configured for sliding engagement with at least one or more support members in the barrier arrangement. 6 2016202129 05 Apr 2016 [63] in one embodiment, the slot formation extends substantially along the length of the elongate body.

[64] In one embodiment, the elongate body is rectangular in cross-section.

[65] In one embodiment, the elongate body defines a pair of major surfaces, and a pair of minor surfaces.

[66] In one embodiment, the slat arrangement is substantially rectangular in cross-section.

[67] In one embodiment, the slat arrangement defines a pair of major faces and a pair of minor faces.

[68] In one embodiment, the engaging slot is located on at least one of the minor faces.

[69] In one embodiment, the slat arrangement comprises a plurality of engaging slots.

[70] In one embodiment, the engaging slots are located on both of the minor faces.

[71] in one embodiment, the engaging slots located on opposed faces of the slat arrangement.

[72] In one embodiment, the engaging slots located on opposed minor faces of the slat arrangement.

[73] In one embodiment, the engaging slot defines a sliding securing formation configured for allowing insertion of an insert into the engaging slot from a direction substantially parallel to the length of the slat arrangement.

[74] In one embodiment, the sliding securing formation prevents withdrawal of an insert from the engaging slot in a direction transverse to the length of the slat arrangement.

[75] In one embodiment, the engaging slot defines a restricted neck formation substantially along its length.

[76] In one embodiment, the sliding securing formation is defined by a restricted neck formation in the engaging slot.

[77] In one embodiment, the slat arrangement is extruded.

[78] According to a further aspect, the present invention may be said to consist in an insert for a barrier arrangement, the insert comprising 7 2016202129 05 Apr 2016 a. a slat engaging portion configured and dimensioned for securely engaging within a slot on a slat arrangement of a barrier arrangement as described.

[79] In one embodiment, the insert comprises a first sliding engaging formation configured for engaging with sliding securing formations of a slat arrangement.

[80] In one embodiment, the insert comprises second sliding engaging formations configured for engaging with complementary sliding engaging formations on a support member.

[81] In one embodiment, the insert comprises complementary engaging formations configured for engaging with sliding securing formations of a slat arrangement.

[82] In one embodiment, the engaging portion is configured for sliding engagement with the slot of a slat arrangement.

[83] In one embodiment, the engaging portion is configured to complement a restricted neck opening on the slot of a slat arrangement.

[84] In one embodiment, the insert is substantially the same length as the slat arrangement.

[85] In one embodiment, comprises a spacer configured for spacing the insert from the inner surface of a channel in a support member of the barrier arrangement.

[86] in one embodiment, the insert comprises holding formations for engaging with and/or holding and/or securing gate accessories.

[87] In one embodiment, the holding formation is configured for engaging with a laminar wall.

[88] In one embodiment, the insert comprises a iaminar wall.

[89] In one embodiment, the laminar wall is one or more selected from translucent and transparent.

[90] In one embodiment, the iaminar wall is curved.

[91] In one embodiment, the laminar wall is planar.

[92] This invention may also be said broadly to consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively, and any or all combinations of any two or more of said parts, elements or features, and where specific integers are mentioned herein which have known 8 2016202129 05 Apr 2016 equivalents in the art to which this invention relates, such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth.

[93] Other aspects of the invention are also disclosed.

Brief Description of the Drawings [94] Notwithstanding any other forms which may fall within the scope of the present invention, a preferred embodiment of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: [95] Figure 1 shows a cutaway front perspective view of a series of alternating ventilation inserts and slat arrangements; [96] Figure 2 shows a cutaway perspective side view of a series of alternating ventilation inserts and slat arrangements of Figure 1; [97] Figure 3 shows a cutaway rear perspective view of a series of alternating ventilation inserts and slat arrangements of Figure 1; [98] Figure 4 shows a cutaway front perspective view of a series of alternating inserts and slat arrangements; [99] Figure 5 shows a cutaway perspective side view of a series of alternating insert and slat arrangements of Figure 4; [100] Figure 6 shows a cross-section view of a slat arrangement; [101] Figure 7 shows a cutaway perspective view of a barrier arrangement including a spacer insert; [102] Figure 8 shows a cutaway front perspective view of a series of spacer inserts and slat arrangements of Figure 7; [103] Figure 9 shows a front perspective view of a second embodiment of a barrier arrangement; [104] Figure 10 shows a top rear perspective view of the second embodiment of a barrier arrangement shown in figure 9; [105] Figure 11 shows a cutaway top rear perspective view of the second embodiment of a barrier arrangement shown in figure 9; [106] Figure 12 shows a cutaway top rear perspective view of the second embodiment of a barrier arrangement shown in figure 9, including a hook gate accessory; 9 2016202129 05 Apr 2016 [107] Figure 13 shows a top perspective view of the second embodiment of a barrier arrangement shown in figure 9, showing how a spacer insert can be fitted; [108] Figure 14 shows a bottom perspective view of a third embodiment of a barrier arrangement using an alternative spacer fitting shown in figure 18; [109] Figure 15 shows a top perspective view of a spacer insert; [110] Figure 16 shows a bottom perspective view of a spacer insert; [111] Figure 17 shows a cutaway perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a barrier arrangement; [112] Figure 18 shows a cross-section view of a spacer insert; and [113] Figure 19 shows a cross-section of a support member with a locking adjustment arrangement engaged within the support member.

Description of Embodiments [114] It should be noted in the following description that like or the same reference numerals in different embodiments denote the same or similar features.

[115] A barrier arrangement according to a first aspect of the invention is generally indicated by the numeral 1000. The barrier arrangement 1000 is for restricting access to a zone, such as a garden or property (not shown). In one preferred embodiment, the barrier arrangement 1000 comprises four elongate support members 1100 that are securely connected to each other by means of fasteners such a screws (not shown), and which defined the perimeter of the barrier arrangement 1000. Each of the support members defines a channel 1110 that extends substantially along its length.

[116] In an alternative embodiment, only two support members 1100 may be used on opposed sides of the perimeter of the barrier arrangement 1000, with two connector members (not shown) of any configuration connecting them. The two support members 1100 could extend vertically or horizontally.

[117] Within the perimeter, many slat arrangements 1200 are arranged in parallel with each other. In one embodiment, the slat arrangements 1200 extend horizontally, are in other embodiments it is envisaged that slat arrangements 1200 could extend critically, or at any angle to the horizontal.

[118] In one preferred embodiment shown in figure 11, the support member 1100 defines a sliding engaging formation in the form of a restricted neck formation 1120 extending substantially along the channel 1110. The restricted neck formation 1120 10 2016202129 05 Apr 2016 can be used to allow an insert 1300 to be securely engaged with the support member 1100 in a sliding fashion, moving it in the direction of the length of the support member 1100, and preventing such components from being withdrawn from the channel 1110, However, in the preferred embodiments shown, the slat arrangements 1200 are removable from the channel in a direction transverse to the direction parallel to the length of the support member 1100.

[119] In alternative embodiments, it is envisaged that no sliding engaging formations or restricted neck formations need be provided. Further, it is envisaged that in alternative embodiments of the restricted neck formations could be provided in a wide variety of shapes and configurations. In one embodiment shown in figure 18, the spacer insert includes snap fit or interference formations 1316 that are slightly wider than the slot 1220 into which they are receivable. By allowing for such an interference or snap-type fit, it is envisaged that this will facilitate the assembly of the barrier arrangement 1000.

[120] Opposed ends of the slat arrangements 1200 are configured to be received into and snugly engaged with the channel 1110 in the support members 1100. it will be appreciated that in an alternative embodiment (not shown), a similar channel could be provided in the ends of the slat arrangements, into which the support members can be received in snug engagement.

[121] The slat arrangements 1200 are preferably elongate aluminium extrusions and each comprise an engaging slot 1220 configured for securely receiving an insert 1300. In alternative embodiments, other materia! such as plastic can be used. The slat arrangements 1200 each comprise an elongate body 1210, The elongate body is preferably rectangular in cross-section, and defines a pair of major faces 1212 and a pair of minor faces 1214, In the preferred embodiment shown, an engaging slot 1220 is provided on each of the minor faces 1214, [122] At each of the engaging slots 1220, the slat arrangement defines a sliding securing formation 1230 is configured for allowing insertion of an insert 1300 into the engaging slot 1220 from a direction substantially parallel to the direction of the length of the slat arrangement 1200, while preventing withdrawal of the insert 1300 from the engaging slot 1220 in a direction transfers to the direction of the length of the slat arrangement 1200. in the embodiments shown in the figures, the sliding securing formation 1230 comprises a slat restricted neck formation 1232 extending substantially along the length of the engaging slot 1220. 11 2016202129 05 Apr 2016 [123] The inserts 1300 will include at least one engaging portion in the form of a first sliding engaging formation 1302 that is complementarily configured to engage with the restricted neck formation 1232 to prevent withdrawal of the insert 1300 from the engaging slot 1220. As shown in the figures, the first sliding engaging formations 1302 is substantially tapered, to complement the tapered inner surfaces of the restricted neck formation 1232.

[124] In a preferred embodiment, the insert 1300 will also be composed of extruded aluminium or plastic, allowing for relatively cheap manufacture.

[125] In one embodiment (not shown) it is envisaged that an insert 1300 can have a first sliding engaging formation 1302 at an upper and a lower edge operationally , for engagement with a slat arrangement 1200 above and below it. However, this would require the entire series of alternating inserts 1300 and slat arrangements 1200 to be secured to each other before these can be inserted into the channel 1110 of the support member is 1100, which may not be convenient.

[126] For this reason, only a lower end of the insert 1300 shown in figures 1-5 provided with a first sliding engaging formation 1302. In this way, one slat arrangement 1201 insert can be assembled together, and dropped into the channel 1110 in a perimeter frame formed by support members 1100.

[127] In another embodiment shown in figures 9-12, it is envisaged that the slat arrangement 1200 can be supported by the inserts 1300, which in turn are supported by the support members 1100. In this embodiment, the insert 1300 comprises an insert body 1307 and a second sliding engaging formation 1312 which is configured for sliding engagement with the restricted neck formation of the support member. The second sliding engaging formation 1312 is configured and dimensioned so that it cannot be withdrawn from the channel 1110 of the support member 1100 in a direction transverse to the direction of the length of the support member. The second sliding engaging formation 1312 is removably securable to the insert body 1307 by means of threaded fasteners in the form of screws 1309. However, in an alternative embodiment, the insert body 1307 and the second sliding engaging formation 1312 can be integrally formed, or securely fastened to each other. In another alternative embodiment (not shown), the second sliding engaging formation 1312 can include zones of engineered weakness 1317, and be configured to be frangible along the zones of engineered weakness to allow for convenient adjustment of its length. An example of such zones of engineered weakness 1317 is shown in figures 13, 15 and 16. 12 2016202129 05 Apr 2016 [128] in this way support can be provided at a point intermediate the ends of the slat arrangements 1200, in order to strengthen the barrier arrangement 1000.

[129] in the embodiment shown in figures 9-12, the inserts 1300 include a pair of first sliding engaging formations 1302 at their upper and lower edges. The first sliding engaging formations 1302 serve to secure the slat arrangements 1200 to the inserts 1300, and in turn indirectly secure the slat arrangements 1200 to the support members 1100.

[130] In this way, the inserts 1300 can serve a dual function of bofh supporting the slat arrangements 1200, as well as spacing them from each other at regular intervals.

[131] it is further envisaged that a multitude of functions can be provided by the inserts 1300.

[132] In the embodiment shown in figures 4 and 5, the insert 1300 extend directly between adjacent slat arrangements 1200. A barrier arrangement 1000 comprises a series of alternating slat arrangements 1200 and inserts 1300 creates a regular textured effect, and is easily assembled.

[133] It is further envisaged that the insert 1300 shown in figures 4 and 5 could be coloured a wide variety of colours to present an interesting design effect. Further, the insert 1300 could be opaque, transparent or translucent, to allow for varying degrees of privacy and/or increased or decreased amounts of light to be allowed to travel through the barrier arrangement 1000.

[134] In the embodiment shown in figures 7 and 8, a spacer insert 1310 is shown. The spacer insert is advantageously configured to space adjacent slat arrangements 1200 from each other, without having to secure the slat arrangements 1200 to the support member 1100. Spacer inserts 1310 that create spacings of varying widths can be used within the same barrier arrangement 1000. in an embodiment shown in figure 13, the spacer insert 1310 is frangible, and comprises zones of engineered weakness 1317 at which the spacer can be broken off to allow for varying spacings between the slat arrangements 1200.

[135] In the embodiment shown in figures 7 and 8, the spacer insert is configured to extend between adjacent slat arrangements 1200, while not extending from the channel 1110 of the support member 1100. In this way, it is not immediately obvious to a viewer facing the barrier arrangement 1000 how the slat arrangements 1200 are spaced from each other. 13 2016202129 05 Apr 2016 [136] In the preferred embodiment shown in figures 7 and 8, the insert 1300 is provided with a spacing formation 1314 for spacing the insert 1300 from an inner surface of the channel 1110 of the support member 1100. in this way, friction between the insert 1300 and the support member 1100 is reduced, to allow for more convenient insertion of the slat arrangement 1200 and inserts 1300 into the channel 1110 during assembly.

[137] It is envisaged that in an alternative embodiment (not shown), the slat arrangements 1200 could be provided with protrusions (not shown) that extend upwardly or downwardly transversely to the length of the slat arrangement 1200, and which carry out a similar function to the spacer insert 1310. However, such an embodiment is not preferred, as the preferred method of manufacture of the slat arrangements 1200 is by extrusion.

[138] In another embodiment, the barrier arrangement 1000 can comprise gate accessories that are configured for engaging with the engaging slot 1220 of the slat arrangement, or the insert 1300. Such gate accessories can be configured for engaging with and/or holding and/or securing gate accessories, such as hooks, postboxes, ladder rungs, plant supports, plant box supports, hanging hooks, house numbers, or the like. An embodiment of a hook gate accessory 1350 is shown in figure 12.

[139] In the embodiment shown in figures 1 to 3, the insert 1300 is a ventilation insert 1320 that includes a holding formation 1305 for engaging with and holding a laminar wall or vane 1322. In this configuration, the insert allows for flow of air between the slat arrangements 1200, while obstructing or at least restricting the line of sight through the barrier arrangement 1000. In addition, the laminar wall 1322 can be used to guide movement of air through the space between adjacent slat arrangements 1200.An alternative embodiment of a ventilation insert 1320 is shown in figure 17, which does not include a separate laminar wall, and instead is shaped as a single piece extrusion (although it could also be moulded).

[140] It is envisaged that the laminar wall 1322 could be curved or planar in shape, and could curve in any number of planes or dimensions.

[141] It is further envisaged that the laminar wall 1322 could be transparent, translucent or opaque, and could be provided in any number of colours that may or may not match the colours of the slat arrangements 1200. In this way, a multitude of design options are provided for customisation of the barrier arrangement. 14 2016202129 05 Apr 2016 [142] it is further envisaged that in aiternative embodiments (not shown), the engaging siot need not be provided with restricted neck formations at aii. it is further envisaged that in aiternative embodiments (not shown), the engaging siot couid be of any cross-sectionai shape or configuration, inciuding semicircular, circular, triangular, rectangular, or any other shape. In another embodiment (not shown), it is envisaged that the siat couid define a recess, such as a C-shaped or U-shaped recess, it is aiso envisaged that an engaging siot couid be provided on an inner surface of a hoilow siat. Additionally, many engaging siots can be provided on any and aii outer or inner surfaces of the siat.

[143] During the installation of the barrier arrangement 1000, it is envisaged that difficulty may be encountered where the length of the support members are not a perfect multiple of the combined lengths of a spacer insert 1310 and the width of a slat arrangement 1200. A user installing the siat arrangements 1200 from the bottom of the support member 1100, and consecutively installing spacer inserts 1310 and additional slat arrangements 1200 may find that the last slat arrangement does not fit wholly within the length of the support member 1100.

[144] For this reason, a locking adjustment arrangement 1400 is provided, that is movable along the length of the support member 1100, and lockable in position.

[145] The adjustment arrangement 1400 comprises a support formation 1410 and a fastener 1420. The fastener 1420 preferably comprises threaded formations 1422 that are engageable with complementary threaded formations (not shown) on the support formation 1410 as shown in figure 19. The fastener is preferably a screw or threaded bolt that is engageable by a screwdriver, a wrench or a similar tool.

[146] The support formation 1410 is configured to fit within the width of the channel 1110, and will preferably be fed into the channel 1110 from an end of the support member 1100. The support formation also comprises a support flange 1412 that extends through the restricted neck formation, and which will in operation preferably support the lowest barrier arrangement 1200.

[147] It wil! be appreciated by those skilled in the art that talking gauge meant of the fastener 1420 will cause the threaded formations 1422 of the fastener 1420 to engage with the complementary threaded formations of the support formation 1410 to vary the distance between the engaging end 1424 of the fastener and the support formation 1410, to thereby either causing engagement of the for support formation 1410 with the restricted neck formation 1120 to lock the adjustment arrangement 1400 in place along the length of the support member 1100. 15 2016202129 05 Apr 2016 [148] in this way, the height of the lowest barrier arrangement 1200 can be adjusted so that the top barrier arrangement 1200 fits within the length of the support member 1100, thereby providing an aesthetically pleasing effect. interpretation

Markush Groups [149] In addition, where features or aspects of the invention are described in terms of Markush groups, those skilled in the art will recognise that the invention is also thereby described in terms of any individual member or subgroup of members of the Markush group.

Chronological sequence [150] For the purpose of this specification, where method steps are described in sequence, the sequence does not necessarily mean that the steps are to be carried out in chronological order in that sequence, unless there is no other logical manner of interpreting the sequence.

Embodiments: [151] Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, but may. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments.

[152] Similarly it should be appreciated that in the above description of example embodiments of the invention, various features of the invention are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure and aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various inventive aspects. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed invention requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the claims following the Detailed Description of Specific Embodiments are hereby expressly incorporated into this Detailed Description of 16 2016202129 05 Apr 2016

Specific Embodiments, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of this invention.

[153] Furthermore, while some embodiments described herein include some but not other features included in other embodiments, combinations of features of different embodiments are meant to be within the scope of the invention, and form different embodiments, as would be understood by those in the art. For example, in the following claims, any of the claimed embodiments can be used in any combination.

[154]

Different Instances of Objects [155] As used herein, unless otherwise specified the use of the ordinal adjectives “first”, “second”, “third”, etc., to describe a common object, merely indicate that different instances of like objects are being referred to, and are not intended to imply that the objects so described must be in a given sequence, either temporally, spatially, in ranking, or in any other manner.

Specific Details [156] In the description provided herein, numerous specific details are set forth. However, it is understood that embodiments of the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, structures and techniques have not been shown in detail in order not to obscure an understanding of this description.

Terminology [157] In describing the preferred embodiment of the invention illustrated in the drawings, specific terminology will be resorted to for the sake of clarity. However, the invention is not intended to be limited to the specific terms so selected, and it is to be understood that each specific term includes all technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar technical purpose. Terms such as "forward", "rearward", "radially", "peripherally", "upwardly”, "downwardly", and the like are used as words of convenience to provide reference points and are not to be construed as limiting terms.

[158] For the purposes of this specification, the term “plastic” shall be construed to mean a general term for a wide range of synthetic or semisynthetic polymerization products, and generally consisting of a hydrocarbon-based polymer.

[159] As used herein the term “and/or” means “and" or “or”, or both. 2016202129 05 Apr 2016 17 [160] As used herein “(s)” following a noun means the plural and/or singular forms of the noun.

Comprising and including [161] In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising” are used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention.

[162] Any one of the terms: including or which includes or that includes as used herein is also an open term that also means including at least the elements/features that follow the term, but not excluding others. Thus, including is synonymous with and means comprising.

Scope of invention [163] Thus, while there has been described what are believed to be the preferred embodiments of the invention, those skilled in the art will recognize that other and further modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit of the invention, and it is intended to claim all such changes and modifications as fall within the scope of the invention. For example, any formulas given above are merely representative of procedures that may be used. Functionality may be added or deleted from the block diagrams and operations may be interchanged among functional blocks. Steps may be added or deleted to methods described within the scope of the present invention.

[164] Although the invention has been described with reference to specific examples, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention may be embodied in many other forms.

Industrial Appiicability [165] It is apparent from the above, that the arrangements described are applicable to the fencing and gate manufacture and installation industries.

Claims (54)

1. Claims The claims defining the invention are as follows: 1) A barrier arrangement for restricting access to a zone, the barrier arrangement comprising a) a plurality of slat arrangements, each slat arrangement comprising at least one or more engaging slot configured for receiving at least one insert; b) an insert configured for spacing adjacent slat arrangement from each other, the insert will being configured for being received into the engaging slot of the slat arrangement.
2. 2) A barrier arrangement as claimed in claim 1), wherein the barrier arrangement comprises at least one support member configured for directly or indirectly supporting the at least one or more slat arrangements.
3. 3} A barrier arrangement as claimed in claim 2), wherein the slat arrangements and the at least one support member are configured for snug engagement with each other.
4. 4) A barrier arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 1) to 3), wherein the at least one or more support member is configured tor at least partly defining the perimeter ot the barrier arrangement.
5. 5} A barrier arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 1) to 4), wherein the support member is configured to support the insert.
6. 6) A barrier arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 1) to 5), wherein the support member configured to support the slat arrangement indirectly by supporting the insert.
7. 7) A barrier arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 1) to 8), wherein the support member defines a channel extending substantially along its length.
8. 8) A barrier arrangement as claimed in claim 7), wherein at least an end portion of the slat arrangement is configured to be snugly engageable in the channel of the support member.
9. 9} A barrier arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 7) to 8), wherein the insert is configured to be slidably engaged or engageable with the channel of the support member.
10. 10) A barrier arrangement as claimed in claim 9), wherein the insert is configured to be slidably engaged or engageable with the channel of the support member in a fashion that restricts removal of the insert from the channel in a direction transverse to the support member.
11. 11) A barrier arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 1) to 10), wherein the engaging slot of the slat arrangement is configured for securely receiving the insert.
12. 12) A barrier arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 7) to 11), wherein the support member defines a sliding engaging formation configured for allowing insertion of an insert into the channei from a direction substantially parallel to the length of the support member.
13. 13) A barrier arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 7) to 11), wherein the sliding engaging formation prevents withdrawal of an insert from the channei in a direction transverse to the length of the support member.
14. 14) A barrier arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 7) to 11), wherein the sliding engaging formation is a restricted neck formation extending along the channei.
15. 15) A barrier arrangement as claimed in claim 14), wherein the insert comprises a sliding engaging formation for sliding engagement with the restricted neck formation of the support member.
16. 16) A barrier arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 1) to 14), wherein the slat arrangement is rectangular and defines a pair of major faces and a pair of minor faces,
17. 17) A barrier arrangement as claimed in claim 16), wherein the engaging slot is disposed on at least one of the minor faces.
18. 18) A barrier arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 1) to 17), wherein the slat arrangement comprises a plurality of engaging slots.
19. 19) A barrier arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 1) to 18), wherein the slat arrangement defines a sliding securing formation configured for allowing insertion of an insert into the engaging slot from a direction substantially parallel to the length of the slat arrangement.
20. 20) A barrier arrangement as claimed in claim 19), wherein the sliding securing formation prevents withdrawal of an insert from the engaging slot in a direction transverse to the length of the slat arrangement.
21. 21) A barrier arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 19) to 20), wherein the sliding securing formation is a slat restricted neck formation.
22. 22) A barrier arrangement as claimed in claim 21), wherein the sliding securing formation is defined by a slat restricted neck formation in the engaging slot.
23. 23) A barrier arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 1) to 22), wherein the at least one or more support members are configured to be securely engageable to each other to define the full perimeter of the barrier arrangement.
24. 24) A barrier arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 1) to 23), wherein the barrier arrangement comprises at least two support members extending substantially vertically.
25. 25) A barrier arrangement as claimed in claim 24), wherein the perimeter of the barrier arrangement is defined by at least two support members extending substantially vertically, and at least one or more connector members extending substantially horizontally between the support members.
26. 26) A barrier arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 19) to 25), wherein the insert comprises complementary engaging formations configured for engaging with the sliding securing formation of the slat arrangement.
27. 27) A barrier arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 1) to 26), wherein the insert is dimensioned and configured to extend between adjacent slat arrangements within the channel of a support member.
28. 28) A barrier arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 1) to 27), wherein the insert comprises holding formations for engaging with and/or holding and/or securing gate accessories.
29. 29) A barrier arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 1) to 27), wherein the insert comprises a spacer insert configured to space one slat arrangement from an adjacent slat arrangement.
30. 30) A barrier arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 1) to 28), wherein the spacer insert is dimensioned and configured to extend between adjacent slat arrangements within the channel of a support member without extending from the channel.
31. 31) A barrier arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 1) to 30), wherein the spacer insert comprises sliding engaging formations configured for sliding engagement with the restricted neck formation of the channel in the support member.
32. 32) A barrier arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 1) to 31), wherein the insert comprises at least one or more spacing formations for spacing the insert from an inner surface of the channel.
33. 33) A barrier arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 1) to 32), wherein the insert is configured for spacing adjacent slat arrangements from each other while guiding movement of air through the space formed between adjacent slat arrangements.
34. 34) A barrier arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 1) to 33), wherein the insert is at least partially transparent.
35. 35) A barrier arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 1) to 34), wherein the insert is at least partially translucent.
36. 36) A slat arrangement for a barrier arrangement, the slat arrangement comprising a) an elongate body; and b) an engaging slot formation extending along the elongate body, the slot formation being configured for receiving inserts.
37. 37) The slat arrangement as claimed in claim 36), wherein the elongate body is configured for sliding engagement with at least one or more support members in the barrier arrangement.
38. 38) The slat arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 36) to 37), wherein the engaging slot defines a sliding securing formation configured for allowing insertion of an insert into the engaging slot from a direction substantially parallel to the length of the slat arrangement.
39. 39) The slat arrangement as claimed in claim 38), wherein the sliding securing formation prevents withdrawal of an insert from the engaging slot in a direction transverse to the length of the slat arrangement.
40. 40) The slat arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 36) to 39), wherein the engaging slot defines a restricted neck formation substantially along its length.
41. 41) The slat arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 37) to 40), wherein the sliding securing formation is defined by a restricted neck formation in the engaging slot.
42. 42) An insert for a barrier arrangement, the insert comprising a) a slat engaging portion configured and dimensioned for securely engaging within a slot on a slat arrangement of a barrier arrangement as claimed in any one of claims 1) to 35).
43. 43) The insert as claimed in claim 42), wherein the insert comprises a first sliding engaging formation configured for engaging with sliding securing formations of a slat arrangement.
44. 44) The insert as claimed in any one of claims 42) to 43), wherein the insert comprises second sliding engaging formations configured for engaging with complementary sliding engaging formations on a support member.
45. 45) The insert as claimed in any one of claims 42) to 44), wherein the engaging portion is configured for sliding engagement with the slot of a slat arrangement,
46. 46) The insert as claimed in any one of claims 42) to 45), wherein the engaging portion is configured to complement a restricted neck opening on the slot of a slat arrangement.
47. 47) The insert as claimed in any one of claims 42) to 46), wherein the insert is configured to extend between adjacent slat arrangements in a barrier arrangement without extending from a channel in a support member.
48. 48) The insert as claimed in any one of claims 42) to 47), wherein the insert comprises a spacer formation configured for spacing the insert from the inner surface of a channel in a barrier support member.
49. 49) The insert as claimed in any one of claims 42) to 48), wherein the insert comprises holding formations for engaging with and/or holding and/or securing gate accessories.
50. 50) The insert as claimed in any claim 49), wherein the holding formation is configured for engaging with a laminar wall.
51. 51) The insert as claimed in any one of claims 42) to 50), wherein the insert comprises a laminar wall.
52. 52) The insert as claimed in claim 51), wherein the laminar wail is one or more selected from translucent and transparent,
53. 53) The insert as claimed in any one of claims 51) to 52), wherein the laminar wall is curved,
54. 54) The insert as claimed in any one of claims 51) to 53), wherein the laminar wall is planar.