AU2019101431B4 - A support assembly - Google Patents

Abstract

A support assembly for supporting fence panels includes a base. Two spaced apart fence post receivers are arranged at a front end of the base such that the base member extends generally rearward with respect to the fence post receivers. Each fence post receiver is configured to receive part of an end post of a fence panel. At least one locating element is arranged behind the fence post receivers and on the base and is configured to engage with a counterweight that can be placed upon the base.

Description

A SUPPORT ASSEMBLY

FIELD [0001] Embodiments of a support assembly for supporting fence panels are described in this specification.

SUMMARY [0002] Embodiments of a support assembly for supporting fence panels comprise:

a base;

two spaced apart fence post receivers arranged at a front end of the base such that the base extends generally rearward with respect to the fence post receivers, each fence post receiver being configured to receive part of an end post of a fence panel; and at least one locating member arranged behind the fence post receivers and on the base and configured to engage with and be at least partly received in a formation of a counterweight that can be placed upon the base.

[0003] The base may take any suitable shape or form. As an illustrative example, the base may comprise one or more individual members, joined (temporarily or permanently) to form the base. Alternatively, the base may be unitarily formed. The base may also perform other functions, such as being a weight itself. In particular, the base may itself also comprise one or more counterweights.

[0004] The fence post receivers may comprise cylindrical bores.

[0005] The fence post receivers are arranged at the front end of the base so that the base does not extend significantly past the front of the fence post receivers. This reduces the tripping hazard as the base does not extend forward of the fence in any significant manner. The cylindrical bores may be immediately adjacent to a front of the base (e.g. within a few centimetres from the front of the base).

[0006] The support assembly may further comprise a plurality of counterweights placed on the base, wherein at least one of the counterweights engages with the at least

2019101431 28 Feb 2020 one locating member. The counterweights may engage with each other in a nested arrangement.

[0007] Embodiments of a temporary fencing structure comprise a plurality of the support assemblies arranged side-by-side along one or more lines; and a plurality of fence panels mounted side-by-side, with adjacent end posts of consecutive panels being positioned in respective post receivers of one of the support assemblies.

[0008] Embodiments of a support assembly for supporting fence panels comprise:

a base;

two spaced apart fence post receivers arranged at a front end of the base such that the base extends generally rearward with respect to the fence post receivers, each fence post receiver being configured to receive part of an end post of a fence panel; and at least one elongate locating member arranged behind the fence post receivers, the, or each, locating member being arranged on the base to extend upwardly from the base, the, or each, locating member being configured to be received in a respective opening defined by a counterweight that can be placed upon the base.

[0009] The, or each, elongate locating member may be a post or rod.

[0010] A cantilever may interconnect one rod and the fence post receivers. The cantilever may include a connecting member that interconnects the fence post receivers and a web that interconnects the one rod and the connecting member so that the base extends generally rearward with respect to the fence post receivers.

[0011] The web may be connected to the connecting member at one of the fence post receivers so that one of the fence post receivers is generally aligned with the one rod in a forward direction and the other fence post receiver is offset in a sideways direction with respect to the one rod.

[0012] The web may be connected to the connecting member between the fence post receivers so that the fence post receivers are offset in opposite sideways directions with respect to the one rod.

2019101431 28 Feb 2020 [0013] A connecting member may interconnect the fence post receivers and the connecting member and the fence post receivers may be mounted on the base in front of one rod.

[0014] The, or each, locating member may be in the form of at least one set of two rods that can be received through corresponding openings in the counterweight.

[0015] The, or each, elongate member may be in the form of at least one set of two rods. The rods of each set may be receivable through each of a set of two holes in a counterweight.

[0016] The, or each, set of two rods may be on a line that extends front to back or sideways.

[0017] The, or each, elongate member may be in the form of two or more sets of two rods.

[0018] A bracing assembly may be mountable on at least one of the rods and may be engageable with a fence post to brace the fence post.

[0019] The bracing assembly may include a bracing post that includes a lower portion that is releasably engageable with one of the rods and an upper portion that is releasably engageable with the fence post.

[0020] The bracing post may be shaped so that the lower portion is operatively vertical and an intermediate portion of the bracing post is angled forwardly.

[0021] A collar may be arranged on the upper portion so that the fence post can be received through the collar.

[0022] The support assembly may include at least one counterweight that defines at least one set of apertures that correspond with the or each set of two rods.

[0023] The, or each, counterweight may be rectangular and elongate with the, or each, set of apertures oriented on a line that is generally orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the, or each, counterweight.

[0024] The, or each, elongate locating member may be at least two posts that are positioned on a line that extends front to back and that include a front post.

2019101431 28 Feb 2020 [0025] The connecting member may interconnect the fence post receivers and the connecting member and the fence post receivers may be mounted on the base in front of the front post.

[0026] A spacer member may be arranged on the base so that a distance between the spacer member and the front post corresponds generally with a distance between an aperture in a conventional counterweight and a side of the conventional counterweight so that the counterweight can be guided into position when the counterweight is located on the base with the front post extending through the aperture.

[0027] The support assembly may include a bracing assembly that is operatively mountable on the base and is engageable with the fence post. The bracing assembly may include a foot that can be positioned behind the base and a bracing post that has an operatively lower portion that is mounted or mountable on the foot to extend operatively vertically from the foot.

[0028] The bracing post may include an intermediate portion that extends operatively forwardly from the lower portion and an upper portion that is fastenable to the fence post.

[0029] An operatively horizontal bracing rod may be mountable between the lower portion of the bracing post and the front post.

[0030] The front post may be fastenable to the fence post.

[0031] Various embodiments of a temporary fencing structure comprise a plurality of the support assemblies as described above arranged side-byside along one or more lines; and a plurality offence panels mounted side-by-side, with adjacent end posts of consecutive panels being positioned in respective post receivers of one of the support assemblies.

[0032] A method of erecting a temporary fencing structure, the method comprising the steps of:

positioning a plurality of the support assemblies as described above side-byside along one or more lines; and

2019101431 28 Feb 2020 mounting a plurality offence panels side-by-side by positioning adjacent end posts of consecutive panels in post receivers of one of the support assemblies.

[0033] Various embodiments of a weighted support assembly for supporting end posts of a pair of fence panels in a side-by-side manner comprise:

a pair of spaced apart fence post receivers at a front end region of the support assembly, each fence post receiver dimensioned and configured to receive part of an end post of a different fence panel of the pair of side-by-side fence panels;

a base fixed to the fence post receivers, wherein the base extends rearward with respect to the fence post receivers in an arrangement wherein the base is offset from the fence post receivers; and a number of counterweights that can be placed on the base, so that the weights are behind the fence panels.

[0034] Various exemplary embodiments of a weighted support assembly for supporting end posts of a pair of fence panels in a side-by-side manner, comprise:

a longitudinally extending base;

a pair of spaced apart fence post receivers fixed to the base, wherein the fence post receivers are offset in a longitudinal direction from a longitudinal midpoint of the base; and a number of counterweights that can be placed on the base.

[0035] A number of weighted support assemblies may be arranged to locate adjacent fences panels in a side-by-side manner so as to form a temporary fence supported by the weighted support assembly. The counterweights are located on one side of the supported fence so as not to be a tripping hazard.

[0036] A support structure of the weighted assembly may comprise the base, the fence post receivers, and an upright post extending generally orthogonally from the base. Each counterweight may include an aperture for receiving the post.

2019101431 28 Feb 2020 [0037] The fence post receivers may be fixed to the base via a cantilever which supports the fence post receivers at an elevated position relative to the base. The base may be a relatively flat rigid strip or plate.

[0038] The weight may have generally parallel sides and the post receiving aperture may be offset to one of the sides.

[0039] Various exemplary embodiments of a support assembly for supporting fence panels comprise a pair of spaced apart fence post receivers at a front end region of the support assembly, each fence post receiver dimensioned and configured to receive part of an end post of a fence panel;

a base fixed to the fence post receivers, wherein the base extends rearward with respect to the fence post receivers in an arrangement wherein the base is offset from the fence post receivers; and at least one elongate locating member, the, or each, locating member being one of arranged on and connectable to the base to extend upwardly from the base, the, or each, locating member being configured to be received in a respective opening defined by a weight that can be placed upon the base.

[0040] The, or each, locating member may be in the form of at least one set of two rods that can be received through corresponding openings in the weight.

[0041] The base may be generally rectangular, with opposite ends and opposite sides, wherein the, or each, set extends along a line that is one of generally orthogonal and generally parallel to the sides.

[0042] The support assembly may include two sets of rods.

[0043] The support assembly may include least one weight, the weight being configured to engage the, or each, locating member.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

2019101431 28 Feb 2020 [0044] Figure 1 shows a three dimensional view of an exemplary embodiment of a weighted support assembly, including an exemplary embodiment of a support stand and a counterweight of the weighted support assembly.

[0045] Figure 2 shows a side view of the stand of the weighted support assembly of figure 1.

[0046] Figure 3 shows a front view of the stand of figure 2.

[0047] Figure 4 shows a plan view of the stand of figure 2.

[0048] Figure 5 shows a three dimensional view of the stand of figure 2.

[0049] Figure 6 shows a side view of a counterweight for the weighted support assembly of figure 1.

[0050] Figure 7 shows an end view of the weight of figure 6.

[0051 ] Figure 8 shows a plan view of the weight of figure 6.

[0052] Figure 9 shows a three dimensional view of the weight of figure 6.

[0053] Figure 10 shows a side view of the weighted support assembly of figure 1, wherein the stand is loaded with three counterweights, in use.

[0054] Figure 11 shows an end view of the weighted support assembly of figure 10.

[0055] Figure 12 shows a plan view of the weighted support assembly of figure 10.

[0056] Figure 13 shows a three dimensional view of the weighted support assembly of figure 10.

[0057] Figure 14 shows a three dimensional exploded view of the weighted support assembly of figure 10.

[0058] Figure 15 shows a side view of the weighted support assembly of figure 1 in an application supporting an end of a fence panel.

[0059] Figure 16 shows a front view of two spaced apart weighted support assemblies of figure 10 supporting opposite ends of a fence panel.

2019101431 28 Feb 2020 [0060] Figure 17 shows a plan view of the two spaced apart weighted support assemblies of figure 16 supporting the fence panel.

[0061 ] Figure 18 shows a three dimensional view of the two spaced apart weighted support assemblies of figure 16 supporting the fence panel.

[0062] Figure 19 shows a front view of two fence panels supported side-by-side by a number of weighted support assemblies of figure 10.

[0063] Figure 20 shows a side view of another arrangement of weighted support assemblies of figure 1, supporting a fence panel.

[0064] Figure 21 shows a front view of the arrangement of weighted support assemblies of figure 20, supporting the fence panel.

[0065] Figure 22 shows a plan view of the arrangement of weighted support assemblies of figure 20, supporting the fence panel.

[0066] Figure 23 shows a three dimensional view of the arrangement of weighted support assemblies of figure 20, supporting the fence panel.

[0067] Figure 24 shows a three dimensional view of a number of fence panels supported by weighted support assemblies of figure 10 and arranged to define an enclosure.

[0068] Figure 25 shows a three dimensional, exploded view of another embodiment of a weighted support assembly.

[0069] Figure 26 shows a three dimensional view of another embodiment of a support stand.

[0070] Figure 27 shows a three dimensional view of still another embodiment of a support stand.

[0071] Figure 28 shows a three dimensional view of another embodiment of a weighted support assembly supporting the fence panel.

[0072] Figure 29 shows a side view of a number of the support assemblies of figure 28 supporting the fence panel.

2019101431 28 Feb 2020 [0073] Figure 30 shows a three dimensional view from the rear of a number of weighted support assemblies of figure 28 supporting a number offence panels between them in a side-by-side arrangement.

[0074] Figure 31 shows a plan view of a further embodiment of weighted support assemblies supporting a number offence panels between them in a side-by-side arrangement.

[0075] Figure 32 shows a side view of the assemblies of figure 31.

[0076] Figure 33 shows a side view of the assemblies of figure 31 configured to support weights one on top of the other.

[0077] Figure 34 shows a three-dimensional view of the assemblies of figure 31 supporting a single fence panel.

[0078] Figure 35 shows a plan view of a further embodiment of weighted support assemblies supporting a number offence panels between them in a side-by-side arrangement.

[0079] Figure 36 shows a side view of the assemblies of figure 34.

[0080] Figure 37 shows a side view of the assemblies of figure 35 configured to support the weights one on top of the other.

[0081 ] Figure 38 shows a three-dimensional view of the assemblies of figure 35 supporting a single fence panel.

[0082] Figure 39 shows a side view of the assemblies of figure 36 incorporating a support bracket.

[0083] Figure 40 shows a three-dimensional view of the assemblies of figure 39.

[0084] Figure 41 shows a detail view of a connection between a support bracket and a fence post.

[0085] Figure 42 shows a detail view of a connection between the support bracket and a locating member.

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2019101431 28 Feb 2020 [0086] Figure 43 shows a plan view of the support assemblies of figure 35, each using a single weight.

[0087] Figure 44 shows a side view of the support assemblies shown in figure 43.

[0088] Figure 45 shows a three-dimensional view of the support assemblies of figure 43 supporting a single fence panel.

[0089] Figure 46 shows a plan view of the assemblies of 35 using a single weight in a different position.

[0090] Figure 47 shows a side view of the support assemblies shown in figure 46.

[0091 ] Figure 48 shows a three-dimensional view of the assemblies of figure 46 supporting a single fence panel.

[0092] Figure 49 shows a plan view of a further embodiment of weighted support assemblies supporting a number offence panels between them in a side-by-side arrangement.

[0093] Figure 50 shows a side view of the support assemblies of figure 49.

[0094] Figure 51 shows a side view of the support assemblies of figure 49 configured for use with two weights.

[0095] Figure 52 shows a three-dimensional view of the assemblies of figure 50 supporting a single fence panel.

[0096] Figure 53 shows a plan view of a further embodiment of weighted support assemblies.

[0097] Figure 54 shows a side view of the weighted support assemblies of figure 53.

[0098] Figure 55 shows a three-dimensional view of the support assemblies of figure 53.

[0099] Figure 56 shows a side view of the weighted support assemblies of figure 53 configured for use with two pairs of stacked weights.

[0100] Figure 57 shows a side view of the weighted support assemblies of figure 53 with a support bracket.

2019101431 28 Feb 2020 [0101] Figure 58 shows a three-dimensional view of the weighted support assembly of figure 57, supporting a single fence panel.

[0102] Figure 59 shows a detailed view of a connection between the support bracket and a fence post.

[0103] Figure 60 shows a detailed view of a connection between the support bracket and a locating member.

[0104] Figure 61 shows a plan view of the support assemblies of figure 53 using a single weight in a particular position.

[0105] Figure 62 shows a side view of the support assemblies of figure 61.

[0106] Figure 63 shows a three-dimensional view of the support assemblies of figure 61 supporting a single fence panel.

[0107] Figure 64 shows a plan view of the support assemblies of figure 53 using a single weight in a different position.

[0108] Figure 65 shows a side view of the support assemblies of figure 64.

[0109] Figure 66 shows a three-dimensional view of the support assemblies of figure 64.

[0110] Figure 67 shows a plan view of the support assemblies of figure 49, each making use of a pair of side-by-side weights.

[0111] Figure 68 shows a side view of the support assembly of figure 67.

[0112] Figure 69 shows a three-dimensional view of the support assemblies of figure 67 supporting a single fence panel.

[0113] Figure 70 shows a plan view of a pair of weights used as fence post supports.

[0114] Figure 71 shows a side view of the weights of figure 70.

[0115] Figure 72 shows a three-dimensional view of the weights of figure 70 supporting a fence panel.

2019101431 28 Feb 2020 [0116] Figure 73 shows a schematic view of a locating rod connected to a base.

[0117] Figure 74 shows a three-dimensional view, from the front, of a stand for a support assembly.

[0118] Figure 75 shows a three-dimensional view, from the rear, of the stand of figure 74.

[0119] Figure 76 shows the stand of figure 74 with one conventional counter weight in a possible position.

[0120] Figure 77 shows the stand of figure 74 with two conventional counterweights in a possible position.

[0121] Figure 78 shows the stand of figure 74 with one conventional counterweight in a possible position.

[0122] Figure 79 shows the stand of figure 74 with two conventional counterweights in a possible position.

[0123] Figure 80 shows the stand of figure 74, also with two conventional counterweights in a possible position.

[0124] Figure 81 shows the stand of figure 74, with four conventional counterweights in a possible position or configuration.

[0125] Figure 82 shows the stand of figure 74 supporting a fence panel.

[0126] Figure 83 shows the stand of figure 74 supporting a fence panel.

[0127] Figure 84 shows the stand of figure 74 with a bracing assembly.

[0128] Figure 85 shows a more detailed view of part of the stand and bracing assembly shown in figure 84.

[0129] Figure 86 shows another view of the stand and bracing assembly.

[0130] Figure 87 shows a more detailed view of part of the stand and bracing assembly of figure 86.

[0131] Figure 88 shows another view of the stand and bracing assembly.

2019101431 28 Feb 2020 [0132] Figure 89 shows a more detailed view of part of the stand and bracing assembly of figure 88.

[0133] Figure 90 shows another view of the stand and bracing assembly.

[0134] Figure 91 shows a more detailed view of part of the stand and bracing assembly of figure 90.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS [0135] Referring to figure 1, reference numeral 10 generally indicates an exemplary embodiment of a weighted support assembly for supporting end posts of a pair offence panels in a side-by-side manner. The weighted support assembly 10 includes an exemplary embodiment of a support stand, generally indicated with reference numeral 12. The stand 12 is configured so that one or more counterweights 16 can be stacked to provide stability to the stand 12 as it supports a fence panel. In this example, the stand 12 has a foot or base 14 on which the weights 16 can be stacked. The stand 12 includes a pair of spaced apart fence post receivers 18 at a front end 8 of the assembly 10 for receiving the end posts of the pair offence panels to hold the fence panels upright.

[0136] Referring to figures 2 to 5, the stand 12 comprises the base 14, an upright rod or post 20 extending generally orthogonally up from the base 14, the fence post receivers 18, and a cantilever 22 interconnecting the upright post 20 and the fence post receivers 18.

[0137] The base 14 is a rigid rectangular strip or plate. The base 14 extends longitudinally from a front end 30 of the base 14 to a rear end 32. The base 14 is, for example, between 300mm and 600mm long measured from the front end 30 to the rear end 32, between 50mm and 100mm wide, and between 3mm to 8mm thick. It is to be appreciated that these dimensions are by way of illustration. The inventor(s) envisages that the base 14 can vary in dimensions depending on the required application, for example, the size of the fence panels. For example, the base 14 may be square, round, or any other shape depending on the application.

[0138] The post 20 stands upright on the base 14 and extends in a direction generally parallel to the extension of the fence post receivers 18. The post 20 is a circular hollow section of approximately 350mm in length with an outside diameter of

2019101431 28 Feb 2020 approximately 33.7mm and a wall thickness of approximately 3.2mm. A lower end of the post 20 is welded to the base 14. The top of the post 20 has aligned transverse openings 36 to allow a tamper seal to be secured or locked to the upper end of the post to prevent removal of weights without disturbing the seal.

[0139] The cantilever 22 comprises a connecting member in the form of a face member or plate 24 and a web 26 which extends between the face plate 24 and the post 20 and interconnects the face plate 24 and the post 20. The web 26 is fixed to the post 20 at one end and to the face plate 24 at another end. The face plate 24 and the web 26 are rectangular plates which are square relative to one another.

[0140] The post receivers 18 are fixed to a forward facing side of the face plate 24. The post receivers 18 are spaced a predetermined distance from each other at opposite ends of the face plate 24. The web 26 is attached to the face plate 24 at one of the post receivers 18 so that the other post receiver 18 is offset in a sideways direction with respect to the post 20.

[0141] The post 20 is fixed to the base 14 at a position along the base 14 so that the base 14 extends generally rearward with respect to the fence post receivers 18. That is to say that the fence post receivers 18 are offset in a forward direction with respect to the post 20 to be forward of a point halfway between opposite ends 30, 32 of the base 14. The base 14 is thus offset, back to front, from the fence post receivers 18. This allows the counterweights 16 to support and stabilise the stand 12 while stacked behind the post receivers 18.

[0142] The fence post receivers 18 are each dimensioned and configured to hold an end of an elongate post such as a part of a cylindrical fence post. The fence post receivers 18 are generally round tubular so that the post can be slid into a bore of the receivers 18 and held in a snug fit in the bore of the receivers 18. The post receivers 18 are circular hollow sections approximately 65mm in length with an outside diameter of approximately 42.4mm and a wall thickness of approximately 4mm. This is just a specific example. The size of the bore of the post receivers 18 is selected to receive common sizes of fence posts. For example, the fence posts can vary in diameter from about 20 mm to 48 mm. The centre to centre distance between the post receivers 18 is between 50mm and 150mm, for example 100mm. The post receivers 18 extend

2019101431 28 Feb 2020 substantially parallel to the post 20. The fence post receivers 18 may be in the form of sockets.

[0143] The stand 12 can be fabricated in a number of different ways and with different materials. For example, the stand 12 can be welded together from structural steel parts or extruded from a plastics material or a metal, such an aluminium or an alloy of aluminium.

[0144] Referring to figures 6 to 9, each weight 16 includes an outer shell 40 that defines a vessel filled with ballast, such as concrete, water or any other material suitable for imparting sufficient weight to the vessel. The shell 40 of each weight 16 can be of a plastics material. The shell 40 can be the result of a moulding process carried out on the plastics material.

[0145] Each shell 40 is shaped to define gripping formations on respective sides to facilitate manipulation of the weight 16.

[0146] Each weight 16 is generally rectangular in plan view with ends 54, sides 56, a lower bearing surface 42 and an upper carrier surface 58. The weight 16 is approximately 500mm long and can be approximately 300mm wide, but may have any suitable length and width dimension.

[0147] The bearing surface 42 is shaped so that it nests with the base 14 of the stand 12 and with the upper carrier surface 58 of a weight on which it may be stacked. The bearing surface 42 is shaped so that the bearing surface of a lowermost weight 16 of a stack of weights can bear against a substrate while accommodating the base 14. For that purpose, the bearing surface 42 of each weight 16 defines a bearing portion 44 that is spaced from a nesting portion 46 such that the base 14 can be received in a depressed foot zone 52 defined by the bearing and nesting portions 44, 46.

[0148] The bearing and nesting portions 44, 46 are configured so that the foot zone 52 extends longitudinally from one end 54.1 to the other end 54.2. The bearing and nesting portions 44, 46 are configured so that the foot zone 52 is offset to one of the sides 56.1. The bearing portion 44 is defined by a planar bearing portion 48 between the zone 52 and the other side 56.2 and a bearing formation in the form of a pair of spaced bearing projections 41 between the zone 52 and the side 56.1. The nesting portion 46 defines longitudinally spaced recesses 45.

2019101431 28 Feb 2020 [0149] The base 14 defines engaging projections in the form of transverse blocks 34 configured to engage the recesses 45 of the nesting portion 46. The recesses 46 are configured to engage the blocks 34.

[0150] It follows that once the weight 16 is placed on the base 14, sliding the weight 16 off the base 14 is inhibited by the blocks 34 being captured in the recesses 44.

[0151] The carrier surface 58 of each weight 16 defines a raised portion 60 that is shaped to be received in the foot zone 52 of another weight 16 so that the weights 16 can be arranged in a nested configuration, one on top of the other, for example, as shown in figures 10 to 13.

[0152] Two opposed slots 64 extend into respective ends 54 of the weight 16 along the foot zone 52. Each slot 64 defines an entry portion 62 with generally flat sides that opens into a cylindrical opening or aperture 66. It follows that the weight 16 can be lifted and positioned so that the slot 64 aligns with the web 26 and the aperture 66 aligns with the post 20 and is then lowered into position onto the base 14 or on top of another weight 16. It will be appreciated that, in that position, the weight 16 is inhibited from sliding off the other weight 16 or the base 14. The opening need not extend all the way through the weight with the post of a suitable length to accommodate a blind opening.

[0153] The apertures 66 are also offset to the one side 56.1 of the weight 16 as the apertures are in the foot zone 52. The centre of each aperture 66 may be spaced from the side 56.1 by between 10% and 30% of the width of the weight 16, for example approximately 20% of the width of the weight 16. The offset nature of the apertures 66 in the weight 16 allows the weights to fit into a square corner of a fence structure while still weighing down the stand 12. The apertures are generally cylindrical and extend through the weight 16 from the lower bearing surface 42 to the upper carrier surface 58.

[0154] In use, the stand 12 is weighted as shown in figures 10 to 13. A lowermost weight 16.1 is lowered onto the stand with the base 14 received in the foot zone 52 and the post 20 received in the aperture 66. Subsequent weights 16.2 and 16.3 are lowered onto the lowermost weight 16.1 in a nested configuration. The web 26 of the cantilever 22 projects forward through the entry portions 62 of the weights 16 so that the post receivers 18 are supported in front of the weights 16 alongside the ends 54.1 of the weights 16.

2019101431 28 Feb 2020 [0155] The fact that the foot zone 52 is offset and the slots 64 are substantially identical allows reversal of distal and proximal ends 54 of the weight/s 16 to accommodate different configurations of the weighted support assembly 10. For example, this minimizes interference with operations, particularly the passage of personnel and goods past the support assembly 10.

[0156] One of the post receivers 18.1 is supported in a position to the side 56.1 of the weights 16, as can be seen in figure 12. The post receiver 18.1 can receive part of the end post of a fence panel which extends alongside the weights 16. The other post receiver 18.2 can receive part of the end post offence panel which extends along the front end 54.1 of the weights. The weighted support assembly 10 may thus support two fence panels forming a corner of a temporary fence.

[0157] Figures 15 to 18 show a fence panel 80 supported between two spaced apart weighted support assemblies 10. The fence panel 80 is of the type commonly used for temporary fencing.

[0158] The fence panel 80 comprises a frame 82 defining an opening and a wire mesh 84 held within the opening of the frame 82. The frame 82 includes two substantially vertical end posts 86 and two substantially horizontal cross bars 88. An upper horizontal cross bar 88.1 is attached between the end posts 86 between their upper ends. A lower horizontal cross bar 88.2 is attached between the end posts 86 between their lower ends. The end posts 86 and cross bars 88 are made from tubular steel of circular cross-section, and are attached to each other by welding. The fence panels may stand approximately 2100mm high and may be approximately 2400mm wide, but may have any suitable height and width dimension.

[0159] The upper and lower ends of the end posts 86 protrude past the upper cross bar 88.1 and the lower cross bar 88.2, respectively. The protruding lower ends of the end posts 86 are legs 90 which are received in the fence post receivers 18 of the weighted support assemblies 10. The legs 90 have an outer diameter of between about 20 mm to 65 mm, for example, between about 20 mm and 50 mm. This provides an indication of the dimensions required for the apertures. One of the legs 90.1 of the fence panel 80 is received in one of the fence post receivers 18 of one of the support assemblies 10 and the other leg 90.2 of the fence panel 80 is received in one of the fence post receivers 18 of the other support assembly 10.

2019101431 28 Feb 2020 [0160] Figure 19 shows a temporary fence comprising two fence panels 80 arranged side-by-side. The fence panels 80 are supported by weighted support assemblies 10. Adjacent end posts 86 of the two fence panels are supported side-byside by one of the support assemblies 10.1. The leg 90.1 of one of the fence posts 80 and the leg 90.2 of the other fence post 80 are received in the respective fence post receivers 18 of the support assembly 10.1.

[0161] The weights 16 of the support assembly 10.1 are located behind the fences 80 due to the forward configuration of the fence post receivers 18 of the support assembly 10.1. This minimizes interference of the weights 16 with operations, particularly the passage of personnel and goods, past the front of the fence panels 80.

[0162] Figures 20 to 23 show a configuration wherein two weighted support assemblies 10 are arranged back-to-back for added support of a fence panel 80. The end post legs 90 of the fence panel 80 are received in the fence post receivers 18 of the forward support assemblies 10.1, in the same manner as described above. The additional weighted support assemblies 10.2 each support a brace post 96 which extends from the fence post receivers 18 at the rear of the weighted support assemblies 10.2 to the end posts 86. The brace post 96 has a leg 92 at one end which is received in the fence post receiver 18 and a bracket 94 at the other end which clamps to the end post 86. This configuration is suited for high-wind areas, with the extra weight and leverage serving to inhibit the fence panel 80 from being blown over.

[0163] Referring to figure 24, a number of fence panels 80 are arranged and supported by a number of support assemblies 10 in a generally square fence structure arrangement. The fence panels 80 together define an enclosure 98 bounded by the fence panels 80. Each side of the enclosure 98 is defined by two fence panels 80. Adjacent end posts 86 of two fence panels 80 that meet in a side-by-side manner at a corner of the closure are supported by a support assembly 10 in the manner shown. As can be seen in figure 24, the weights 16 of all of the support assemblies are located within the enclosure 98 and do not pose a tripping hazard to traffic outside of the enclosure 98. Upper ends of side-by-side supported end posts 86 are clamped together by clamps 6 to give the fence structure added rigidity.

[0164] Referring to figure 25, another embodiment of a weighted support assembly is indicated generally by reference numeral 100. The weighted support assembly 100 is

2019101431 28 Feb 2020 similar to the weighted support assembly 10, comprising a support stand 112 and a weight 116. The weight 116 is similar to the weight 16, the only difference being that it does not include slot entry portions 62, just the cylindrical apertures 66. The support stand 112 is similar to the support stand 12, the only difference being that it does not include the web 26. The face plate 24 of the support stand 112 is fixed directly to the base 14. The weight 116 can be received on the stand 112 with the post 20 extending through the aperture 66 in the weight 116.

[0165] Referring to figure 26, another embodiment of a support stand is indicated generally by reference numeral 212. The support stand 212 is similar to the support stand 12, with the only difference being that the web 26 connects to the face plate 24 between the post receivers 18. Thus, the receivers18 are offset in opposite sideways directions with respect to the post 20. For example, the fence post receivers 18 are laterally spaced equal distances from the post 20.

[0166] Referring to figure 27, yet another embodiment of a support stand is indicated generally by reference numeral 212. The support stand 212 is similar to the support stand 12, with the difference being that the base 14 is further offset from the fence post receivers 18. The post 20 connects to the base 14 at the end region 30 of the base 14.

[0167] Referring to figures 28 to 30, reference numeral 410 generally indicates another exemplary embodiment of a weighted support assembly for supporting end posts 86 of a pair of fence panels 80 in a side-by-side manner. The weighted support assembly 410 includes a different embodiment of a support stand, generally indicated with reference numeral 412. The weighted support assembly 410 includes stackable weights 416 which are the same as, or similar to, the weights 16 of the weighted support assembly 10.

[0168] The stand 412 has a foot or base 414 on which the weights 416 can be stacked. The stand 412 includes a pair of spaced-apart fence post receivers 418 at a front end 408 of the assembly 410 for receiving the end posts 86. The fence post receivers 418 are the same as the fence post receivers of the stand 12.

2019101431 28 Feb 2020 [0169] The stand 412 comprises the base 414, an upright post 420 extending generally orthogonally up from the base 414, the fence post receivers 418, and a cantilever 422 extending between the upright post 420 and the fence post receivers 418.

[0170] The post 420 is similar to the post 20 of the stand 12, but stands taller. The main difference between the stand 12 and the stand 412 is the cantilever 422. The cantilever 422 includes a channel section 424 which extends upwardly from the front of the base 414 and a web 426 which extends between the rear of the channel section 424 and the post 420. The bottom of channel section 424 stands on the base 414. The web 426 extends all the way from the base 414 to the top of the post 420.

[0171] The assembly 410 includes a bracket 402 for fixing the fence post receivers 418 to the front of the channel section 424. The bracket 402 is bolted to the front of the channel section 424. The fence post receivers 418 are fixed to the bracket 402.

[0172] The assembly 410 includes a clamping bracket 404 higher up along the channel section 424 to give additional support to the fence 80. The bracket 404 is configured to clamp the end posts to the channel section 424.

[0173] The stand 412 may be the same as the support assembly 12 of Australian patent application 2012203098, incorporated herein by reference, but further including the brackets 402, 404 and the fence post receivers 418 at the front of the stand.

[0174] The support assemblies described above are modular in the sense that a number of the weights can be placed one on top of each other. This is made possible by the fact that the weights are offset from the fence so that they can be stacked up without interfering with the fence. This functionality allows for the individual weights to be limited to an extent where injury due to repetitious lifting is inhibited. For example, the counterweights can be limited to about 20 kg.

[0175] In some embodiments, it is envisaged that a single fence post receiver can be provided. This may be applicable in those cases where a fence panel has an intermediate post interposed between end posts.

[0176] In figures 31 to 33, reference numeral 500 generally indicates a further exemplary embodiment of a weighted support assembly for supporting a fence panel, such as the fence panel 80.

2019101431 28 Feb 2020 [0177] The weighted support assembly 500 includes a weight 502. The weight 502 can have a variety of shapes. In the drawings, the weight 502 is shown as a rectangular block. However, it can be other shapes.

[0178] In this embodiment, the weight 502 includes three pairs of openings or apertures 504. These include a pair of apertures 504.1, extending between top and bottom faces 512 of the weight 502, that are positioned at one end 506 of the weight 502 on a line that extends across the weight 502 and generally orthogonally with respect to opposite major sides 508 of the weight 502. A pair of apertures 504.2, extending between the top and bottom faces 512, are positioned at an opposite end 510 of the weight 502 on a line that extends across the weight 502 and generally orthogonally with respect to opposite major sides 508 of the weight 502. An intermediate or central pair of apertures 504.3, extending between the top and bottom faces 512, are positioned on a line that extends centrally between, and generally orthogonal to, the major sides 508.

[0179] The support assembly 500 includes a generally flat base plate 514. The plate 514 is generally rectangular with a pair of opposed ends 516, sides 518 and top and bottom faces 520 (figure 36).

[0180] A pair of fence post receivers 522 are positioned at or near one of the ends 516.1. The receivers 522 are configured to receive the end posts 86 of adjacent fence panels 80. In that configuration, it will be appreciated that, due to the position of the receivers 522, a major portion of the base plate is positioned on one side of the fence panels 80. The support assembly 500 can thus be used, with appropriate weights, so that the panels 80 are supported, in a cantilever fashion, on one side of the panels 80 which would be that side not generally exposed to the public, so avoiding a tripping hazard.

[0181] The pair of fence post receivers 522 can be in the form of tubular members or tubes that are attached to the base plate 514. For example, the receivers 522 can be steel tubes that are welded to the base plate 514, which would also be of steel. The inventor(s) envisages that the base plate and the receivers can be of any other suitable material, such as aluminium or a reinforced composite material.

[0182] Two locating members are mounted on the base plate to be received through any pair of the apertures 504, with the weight 502 positioned across the base plate 514.

2019101431 28 Feb 2020

The locating members can be in the form of two tubes or rods 524 that extend upwardly from the base plate 514. The rods 524 are positioned along a central, longitudinal line extending between the ends 516 of the base plate 514, in other words, front to back. The rods 524 are configured and dimensioned to extend through the apertures 504. In the example shown in figures 31 to 33, the weight 502 is positioned so that the rods 524 extend through the apertures 504.3.

[0183] As can be seen in figure 33, the rods 524 can be of any suitable length to locate two or more stacked weights 502 to provide further weight to allow the base plate 514 to support the fence panel 80 in the upright condition in, for example, high wind environments.

[0184] In figures 35 to 38, reference numeral 530 generally indicates a weighted support assembly for supporting the fence panels 80 in an upright configuration.

[0185] In this example, the assembly 530 includes a base plate 532 that is longer than the base plate 514. Furthermore, in this example, there are four rods 524 extending from the base plate 514, along the central longitudinal line between the ends 516. The rods 524 are positioned so that a pair of the weights 502 can be positioned across the base plate 532 in a side-by-side orientation with two rods 524 received through the apertures 504.3 of each weight 502. This configuration is used for cases where additional stability is required, for example, in higher wind areas.

[0186] For further stability, the rods 524 can be lengthened or of a length, as shown in figure 37, for accommodating stacked weights 502. The inventor(s) envisages that the rods 524 can be of any length required to accommodate any number of weights 502, within reason.

[0187] In figures 39 to 42, reference numeral 540 generally indicates the weighted support assembly 530 together with a bracing assembly that includes a support bracket 542. The support bracket 542 is connected, at an upper end portion 543 to the end post 86 on an upper side of the upper crossbar 88.1 by means of a collar 544 through which the end post 86 is received. Detail of this connection can be seen in figure 41. A lower end 545 of the support bracket 542 is connected to a locating member or rod 524 furthest from the fence post receivers 522.

2019101431 28 Feb 2020 [0188] The support bracket 542 can be in the form of a tubular element. Thus, the support bracket 542 can be received over or within the rod 524 (if the rod is tubular) and fastened thereto with a suitable fastener. For example, corresponding openings may be formed in the rod 524 and the bracket 542 so that the bracket 542 can be fastened to the rod 524 with a suitable fastener, such as a nut and bolt assembly indicated at 546 or a clipping arrangement of the type using a spring-loaded push button(s) or pin(s) received through holes.

[0189] The collar 544 is dimensioned so that it can be slipped over the end post 86 without an operator having to reach the end post 86. More particularly, the bracket is lifted up and dropped down so that the end post 86 extends through the collar 544. The lower end 545 is dropped down over one of the rods so that openings in the rod and the lower end 545 are brought into register with each other allowing a fastener to be used. Other arrangements may include a press button type arrangement on one of the lower end 545 and the rod and a corresponding opening on the other. Thus, the two could be connected by simply pushing in the press button and bringing the opening into register with the press button, which would be spring-loaded. The inventor(s) envisage that a variety of other fastening arrangements would be appropriate.

[0190] In figures 43 to 45, reference numeral 550 generally indicates the weighted support assembly of figures 35 to 38 with the weight 502 positioned transversely across the base plate 532 with the two rods 524 closest to the fence post receivers 522 being received through the apertures 504.3.

[0191] In figures 46 to 48, reference numeral 560 generally indicates the weighted support assembly of figures 35 to 38 with a single weight 502 positioned transversely across the base plate 514 with the two rods 524 furthest from the fence post receivers being received through the apertures 504.3.

[0192] In figures 49 to 52, reference numeral 570 generally indicates an exemplary embodiment of a weighted support assembly for supporting the panel(s) 80 in an upright configuration or orientation.

[0193] In this embodiment, a single weight or two stacked weights 502 are positioned longitudinally with respect to a base plate 572.

2019101431 28 Feb 2020 [0194] A pair of locating members is positioned transversely with respect to the base plate 572 or on a line that extends sideways. As before, the locating members can be in the form of rods 562. In this configuration, the rods 562 are received through each of the respective apertures 504.3.

[0195] As indicated in figure 51, the rods 562 can be of any suitable length to allow a plurality of the weights 502 to be stacked one on top of the other on the base plate 572.

[0196] This configuration is useful where a tripping hazard at an end of a row of fence panels is needed to be obviated or reduced.

[0197] In figures 53 to 55, reference numeral 580 generally indicates a weighted support assembly for supporting the panel(s) 80 in an upright configuration or orientation.

[0198] The support assembly 580 includes a base plate 582 that is longer than the base plate 572.

[0199] Two pairs of locating members are positioned on the base plate 582 to engage and locate two weights 502, in an end-to-end orientation, on the base plate 582. As before, each pair of locating members is in the form of a pair of the rods 562. In this example, the rods 562 are positioned so that each pair can be received through respective apertures 504.3 of the end-to-end weights 502.

[0200] In figure 56, the support assembly 580 is shown with lengthened or elongate rods 562 so that two pairs of stacked weights can be positioned on the base plate 582. As before, the rods 562 can be of a variety of lengths to accommodate further weights 502 stacked one on top of each other.

[0201] In figures 57 to 60, the support assembly 580 is shown with the support bracket 542 connected in the manner described above.

[0202] In figures 61 to 63, there is shown the support assembly 580 with a single weight positioned so that the rods 562 closest to the fence post receivers are received through the apertures 504.3.

2019101431 28 Feb 2020 [0203] In figures 64 to 66, there is shown the support assembly 580 with a single weight positioned so that the rods 562 furthest from the fence post receivers are received through the apertures 504.3.

[0204] In figures 67 to 69, there is shown the support assembly 570 carrying two weights 502, in a side-by-side manner, on each base plate 514. In this example, one of the apertures 504.3 of each weight 502 receives a respective rod 524.

[0205] The inventor(s) envisages that the weight 502, itself, can provide suitable stability to the fence panels 80. Thus, as can be seen in figures 70 to 72, the apertures 504.1 can be dimensioned to receive the end posts 86.

[0206] It is to be understood that the locating members can be connected to the base in a variety of ways. For example, the locating members can be configured to be connected to the base after the weights are stacked. For example, the rods can be inserted through the apertures to engage the base once the weights are stacked or positioned on the base. Also, the locating members of rods can simply be provided separately to the base for assembly to the base at a location in which the fence panels are to be supported. For example, in figure 73, the rod 524 and the base 502 can have complementary connecting mechanisms or arrangements, indicated at 584, to allow an operator to engage the rod with the base. The connecting mechanism or arrangement can take any number of forms. For example, it could be bayonet-type fitting. It could also be a form of mechanism that allows the rod 524 to be inserted into an aperture 596 in the base 502 to click into engagement with an appropriate mechanism arranged in the base and/or the rod.

[0207] In light of the above paragraphs, the inventor(s) envisages that the various components can be used in a variety of different ways to achieve a stable panel arrangement, while still maintaining a reduction in trip hazard.

[0208] The various embodiments of the counterweight assemblies described herein provide a counterweighted fencing system, in the true sense, in that no portion of the weight or base for the weight extends into a public area on one side of the fencing system.

[0209] In various embodiments relating to the support bracket 542, there is illustrated a means whereby a temporary fencing system can have a wind rating.

2019101431 28 Feb 2020 [0210] The various embodiments illustrate a mechanism whereby one form of weight can be used in a variety of different ways to achieve different support functionalities. As will be appreciated from a reading of the description above, the counterweight or weight can be positioned in a number of different ways relative to the base to achieve different support effects or functionalities. This can also be achieved with an existing form of weight, of the type described above, with the two centrally positioned apertures.

[0211] Given the flexibility with which the weighting can be provided and the ability to make use of the support bracket 542, the various embodiments of the counterweight assemblies can provide for a fencing system with a crowd loading rating as may be required by various regulatory authorities.

[0212] The manner in which the support bracket 542 is used allows it to be positioned without clamping mechanical fixing, which would usually require tools, at the top of the fencing arrangement. As can be understood from the above description, the bracket 542 is simply dropped over one of the fence posts and over one of the rods. The clipping or engagement arrangement can be any arrangement which allows for operation without tools. For example, the arrangement can be a press button arrangement with holes that register with a spring mounted button or stud. Alternatively, a clamping arrangement can be provided that is operable without tools, at the base.

[0213] In a general sense, the modular counterweight assemblies provide a mechanism whereby the weighting can be adjusted or positioned on the base without the use of cranes or the need for filling large modules with water or concrete or any other material once in position.

[0214] Broadly, the support assembly can be composite in the sense of the base being in two parts, with each part supporting or connected to a respective fence post receiver. Thus, two such bases can be used together to provide the two receivers for two fence panels.

[0215] The inventor(s) envisages that the embodiments of the base described herein can be provided separately from the weights. This is emphasised by the fact that the base can be used together with existing weights, as described above.

2019101431 28 Feb 2020 [0216] In figures 74 to 91, reference numeral 600 generally indicates a support stand for use with conventional counterweights 602. The conventional counterweights have a pair of openings 604 positioned along a central, transverse line.

[0217] The face plate 24 is mounted directly onto the foot or base 14, for example, by welding. A spacer plate 606 is mounted one or both of the face plate 24 and the base 14 to extend rearward from the face plate 24.

[0218] A front rod or post 608 and a rear rod or post 610 extend from the foot or base 14. The posts 608 and 610 are spaced with respect to each other. The front post 608 is spaced from the plate 606. As can be seen in the figures, the posts 608, 610 and the spacer plate 606 are positioned so that the counterweights 602 can be positioned on the stand 600 in a number of different ways.

[0219] When a counterweight 602 is positioned transversely on the base 14, the plate 606 serves to locate the counterweight 602. This is achieved by having a distance between the plate 606 and the front post 608 roughly the same as a width of a portion of the counterweight 602 from one of the openings 604 to an edge of the counterweight 602.

[0220] The spacer plate 606 has an upper chamfered or tapered edge 612 so that the counterweight 602 can be guided into position without hanging up on the plate 606.

[0221] In figures 88 to 91, the support stand 600 shown in use with a bracing assembly 614.

[0222] The bracing assembly 614 includes an elongate base or foot 615 that can be brought into alignment with the base 14. The bracing assembly 614 includes a bracing post 616. The bracing post 616 has an operatively lower portion 618 that is mounted or mountable on the base 615 to extend operatively vertically from the base 615. An intermediate portion 620 extends operatively forwardly from the lower portion 618. An operatively upper portion 622 extends operatively vertically from the intermediate portion 620.

[0223] The bracing assembly 614 includes a fastening arrangement for fastening the upper portion 622 to a fence post 80. The fastening arrangement can be in the form of an elongate clamping assembly 624. The clamping assembly 624 includes a front

2019101431 28 Feb 2020 clamp 626 that is configured for clamping onto the fence post 86 and a rear clamp 628 that is configured for clamping onto the upper portion 622 of the bracing post 616. The clamps 626, 628 are spaced by a web 630. The fastening arrangement can take any number of forms. For example, when in the form of the clamping assembly 624, the assembly 624 can include two plates that are fastened together with a bolt or other fastener indicated at 629.

[0224] An operatively horizontal bracing rod 632 extends from the lower portion 618 towards a front of the stand 600. The bracing rod 632 can be welded to the lower portion 618, for example.

[0225] An operatively vertical connector 634 is fastened to a front end of the bracing rod 632. The connector 634 is secured or connected to the fence post 80 with another of the fastening arrangements described above.

[0226] The connector 634 is also connected to the front post 608. Thus, the connector 634 can be in the form of a cylindrical rod or tube that can engage the front post 608 in a releasable manner. For example, the connector 634 can be clipped to the front post 608 with a spring mounted pushbutton mechanism.

[0227] A further post 636 is mounted on and extends upwardly from base 615, rearward of the lower portion 618 of the bracing post 616. Further counterweights 602 can be positioned on the base 615 with the post 636 extending through either of the openings 604, further to support the bracing assembly 614.

[0228] Throughout the specification, the use of common reference numerals is intended to make reference to like parts across the drawings. However, such use of common reference numerals is not intended to indicate that a particular component from one drawing is essential or necessary for an embodiment described in another drawing. The use of common reference numerals is for convenience only.

[0229] The appended claims are to be considered as incorporated into the above description.

[0230] Throughout the specification, the following definitions and interpretative comments apply:

2019101431 28 Feb 2020

a. “Element” is not to be interpreted as necessarily being limited to a unitary article or component. It can be interpreted in the same way as “member” and has been selected primarily for clarity and to distinguish components or articles referred to as “members”.

b. The use of “snug” to define a “fit” is intended to encompass a range of different types of fit, from what would be considered “loose” by a skilled person to “interference” by the same person. The requirement is that the panel be inhibited from tilting in such a way as to interfere with an acceptable level of accuracy in locating the panels.

c. The term “fence” is to be given a broad interpretation as a structure designed to restrict or prevent movement across a boundary and is not to be considered as being limited to a particular application. For example, it is not to be considered to be limited to a structure that is necessarily only used outdoors. It is quite conceivable that it could be an indoor structure.

[0231 ] The appended claims form part of this description of the embodiments.

[0232] Throughout the specification, including the claims, where the context permits, the term “comprising” and variants thereof such as “comprise” or “comprises” are to be interpreted as including the stated integer or integers without necessarily excluding any other integers.

[0233] It is to be understood that the terminology employed above is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The described embodiments are intended to be illustrative of the invention, without limiting the scope thereof. The invention is capable of being practised with various modifications and additions as will readily occur to those skilled in the art.

[0234] Various substantially and specifically practical and useful exemplary embodiments of the claimed subject matter, are described herein, textually and/or graphically, including the best mode, if any, known to the inventors for carrying out the claimed subject matter. Variations (e.g., modifications and/or enhancements) of one or more embodiments described herein might become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading this application. The inventor(s) expect skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate, and the inventors intend for the claimed subject matter to

2019101431 28 Feb 2020 be practiced other than as specifically described herein. For example, the inventor(s) expect that any specific dimensions described herein can be varied depending the application required by such skilled artisans. Accordingly, as permitted by law, the claimed subject matter includes and covers all equivalents of the claimed subject matter and all improvements to the claimed subject matter. Moreover, every combination of the above described elements, activities, and all possible variations thereof are encompassed by the claimed subject matter unless otherwise clearly indicated herein, clearly and specifically disclaimed, or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

[0235] The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate one or more embodiments and does not pose a limitation on the scope of any claimed subject matter unless otherwise stated. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any nonclaimed subject matter as essential to the practice of the claimed subject matter.

[0236] The use of words that indicate orientation or direction of travel is not to be considered limiting. Thus, words such as “front”, “back”, “rear”, “side”, “up”, down”, “upper”, “lower”, “top”, “bottom”, “forwards”, “backwards”, “towards”, “distal”, “proximal”, “in”, “out” and synonyms, antonyms and derivatives thereof have been selected for convenience only, unless the context indicates otherwise. In the exemplary embodiments described herein, the terms “outer” refers to an orientation towards an outer side of an area or space that is enclosed or shielded by the structure using the weighted support assembly. Furthermore, the terms “front”, “forward” and the like refer to an orientation towards the panels and an area outside the fencing structure. The terms “back”, “rearward” and the like have an opposite meaning.

[0237] The inventor also envisages that various exemplary embodiments of the claimed subject matter can be supplied in any particular orientation and the claimed subject matter is intended to include such orientations.

[0238] Thus, regardless of the content of any portion (e.g., title, field, background, summary, description, abstract, drawing figure, etc.) of this application, unless clearly specified to the contrary, such as via explicit definition, assertion, or argument, or clearly contradicted by context, with respect to any claim, whether of this application and/or any claim of any application claiming priority hereto, and whether originally presented or otherwise:

2019101431 28 Feb 2020

a. there is no requirement for the inclusion of any particular described or illustrated characteristic, function, activity, or element, any particular sequence of activities, or any particular interrelationship of elements;

b. no characteristic, function, activity, or element is “essential”;

c. any elements can be integrated, segregated, and/or duplicated;

d. any activity can be repeated, any activity can be performed by multiple entities, and/or any activity can be performed in multiple jurisdictions; and

e. any activity or element can be specifically excluded, the sequence of activities can vary, and/or the interrelationship of elements can vary.

[0239] The use of the terms “a”, “an”, “said”, “the”, and/or similar referents in the context of describing various embodiments (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing” are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including, but not limited to,”) unless otherwise noted.

[0240] Moreover, when any number or range is described herein, unless clearly stated otherwise, that number or range is approximate. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value and each separate sub-range defined by such separate values is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. For example, if a range of 1 to 10 is described, that range includes all values therebetween, such as for example, 1.1,2.5, 3.335, 5, 6.179, 8.9999, etc., and includes all subranges therebetween, such as for example, 1 to 3.65, 2.8 to 8.14, 1.93 to 9, etc.

[0241] Accordingly, every portion (e.g., title, field, background, summary, description, abstract, drawing figure, etc.) of this application, other than the claims themselves, is to be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not as restrictive, and the scope of subject matter protected by any patent that issues based on this application is defined only by the claims of that patent.

Claims (5)

1. A support assembly for supporting fence panels, the support assembly comprising:

a base;

two spaced apart fence post receivers arranged at a front end of the base such that the base extends generally rearward with respect to the fence post receivers, each fence post receiver being configured to receive part of an end post of a fence panel; and at least one locating member arranged behind the fence post receivers and on the base and configured to engage with and be at least partly received in a formation of a counterweight that can be placed upon the base.

2. The support assembly of claim 1 comprising a plurality of counterweights placed on the base, wherein at least one of the counterweights engages with the at least one locating member.

3. The support assembly of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the fence post receivers comprise cylindrical bores.

4. The support assembly of claim 2 wherein the counterweights engage with each other in a nested arrangement.

5. A temporary fencing structure that comprises a plurality of the support assemblies of any one of the preceding claims arranged side-by-side along one or more lines; and a plurality offence panels mounted side-by-side, with adjacent end posts of consecutive panels being positioned in respective post receivers of one of the support assemblies.