AU2021101691A4

AU2021101691A4 - Slat Stabilizer

Info

Publication number: AU2021101691A4
Application number: AU2021101691A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Richard Van Lieshout
Original assignee: Glass Outlet Bne Pty Ltd
Current assignee: Glass Outlet Bne Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2021-04-01
Filing date: 2021-04-01
Publication date: 2021-06-03
Anticipated expiration: 2029-04-01

Abstract

The present invention relates to a slat stabilizer for slat fence comprising an 5 elongate member adapted to slidably engage a rail of a fence post, where the elongate member comprises a first end and a second end, wherein the first end and the second end each comprise a protrusion extending in the same direction. The present invention addresses some of the issues associated with present slat fences. 10 3/4 300 351 352 354 353 354 FIG5 600b 35030 104 102 6001 110 FIG 6

Description

3/4

300

351

352

354 353 354 FIG5

600b

35030

104 102

6001

110

FIG 6

TITLE

Slat Stabilizer

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of fencing. More particularly, the present invention relates to slat fencing. Even more particularly, the present invention relates to a slat stabilizer and methods of use.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

[0002] Any reference to background art herein is not to be construed as an admission that such art constitutes common general knowledge in Australia or elsewhere.

[0003] Structures, such as slat fencing, rely on slats being engaged and secured by channels in adjacent structures. Once in the desired position, the slats can be fixed and secured to the adjacent structures by welding or screwing the slats thereto (such as fence posts). Typically, slat fencing is assembled and then powder coated to provide an aesthetically pleasing facade. However, it will be appreciated that this is cumbersome, expensive and labour intensive. Furthermore, such welding and securing techniques may detract from an aesthetically pleasing facade.

[0004] In the instances of slats being screwed to the structure, the slats can become loose in the channels and rattle. Furthermore, the spacing between the slats can be inconsistent due to minor movements due to the inherent issues with welding and screwing.

[0005] It would be advantageous to address one or more of these issues, or to at least provide the consumer with a commercial alternative.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] In a first aspect, although it need not be the only or indeed the broadest aspect, the invention resides in a slat stabilizer for slat fencing comprising:

an elongate member adapted to slidably engage a rail of a fence post;

wherein the elongate member comprises a first end and a second end, wherein the first end and the second end each comprise a protrusion extending in the same direction.

[0007] In an embodiment, the elongate member comprises a base having a width, and a top have a width that is smaller than the width of the base. In one embodiment, the elongate member comprises a step between the base and the top.

[0008] In some embodiments, the first end is connected to a second end by an intermediate portion.

[0009] In embodiments, the slat stabilizer comprises a pair of elongate members.

[0010] In certain embodiments, the slat stabilizer further comprises a spacer device. In one embodiment, the spacer device comprises a channel adapted to engage a portion of a fence post.

[0011] In one embodiment, the pair of elongate members are connected by a spacer portion. In an embodiment, the spacer portion connects the intermediate portion of one of the pair of elongate members to the intermediate position of the other of the pair of elongate members.

[0012] In certain embodiments, the spacer portion has a thickness greater than the thickness of the elongate member. The spacer portion comprises a channel adapted to engage a portion of a fence post.

[0013] In some embodiments, the slat stabilizer is integrally formed.

[0014] In embodiments, the first end and/or the second end is or are removable from the spacer portion.

[0015] In an embodiment, the first end and/or second end comprise one or more lines of weakness. In one embodiment, the first end and/or second end is or are a frangible portion.

[0016] In a second aspect, the invention resides in a kit for assembling a slat fence comprising:

a fence post comprising a channel defined by a pair of rails; and

the slat stabilizer of the first aspect adapted to engage one or more of the rails of the fence post.

[0017] The slat stabilizer, fence posts and components thereof are as substantially described hereinabove.

[0018] In some embodiments, the kit further comprises a slat adapted to engage the channel of the fence post.

[0019] In one embodiment the fence posts comprise a pair of rails that form a channel. In an embodiment, the pair of rails are aligned. In some embodiments, the rails are adapted to slidably receive and secure the slat stabilizer. In an embodiment, the channel is adapted to receive the slat.

[0020] In a third aspect, the invention resides in a method of installing a slat between adjacent fence posts, the method including the steps of:

inserting a slat stabilizer of the first aspect into one or more rails of a first fence post;

inserting a second stabilizer of the first aspect into one or more rails of a second fence post; and

inserting a slat into a channel defined by respective rails of the first fence post and a channel defined by respective rails of the second fence post,

to thereby install a slat between adjacent fence posts.

[0021] The slat stabilizer, fence posts and components thereof are as substantially described hereinabove.

[0022] In a fourth aspect, the invention resides in a slat fence assembly comprising:

at least two fence posts each having a channel defined by a pair of rails;

at least two slat stabilizers comprising an elongate member adapted to slidably engage at least one of the pair of rails, wherein each elongate member comprising a first end and a second end, and wherein the first end and the second end each comprise a protrusion extending in the same direction; and

at least one slat adapted to engage the channel.

[0023] The slat stabilizer, fence posts and components thereof are as substantially described hereinabove.

[0024] The various features and embodiments of the present invention referred to in the individual sections above and in the description which follows apply, as appropriate, to other sections, mutatis mutandis. Consequently, features specified in one section may be combined with features specified in other sections as appropriate.

[0025] Further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] To assist in understanding the invention and to enable a person skilled in the art to put the invention into practical effect, preferred embodiments of the invention will be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG 1 is an embodiment of a fence post;

FIG 2 shows an embodiment of an elongate member of a slat stabilizer;

FIG 3 shows an embodiment of an elongate member and a spacer device;

FIG 4 shows another embodiment of a slat stabilizer;

FIG 5 shows a top view of the slat stabilizer of FIG 4;

FIG 6 shows an exploded view of a slat fence utilizing the slat stabilizer of FIG 4;

FIG 7 shows an exploded view of a slat fence utilizing the slat stabilizers of FIG 2; and

FIG 8 shows a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the spacer device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0027] Embodiments of the present invention reside primarily in a slat stabilizer. Accordingly, the device and method steps have been illustrated in concise schematic form in the drawings, showing only those specific details that are necessary for understanding the embodiments of the present invention so as to not obscure the disclosure with excessive detail that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the present description.

[0028] In this specification, adjectives such as first and second, top and bottom, and the like may be used solely to distinguish one element or action from another element or action without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order.

[0029] Words such as "comprises" or "includes" are intended to define a non exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed, including elements that are inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus.

[0030] As used herein, the term 'about' means the amount is nominally the number following the term 'about' but the actual amount may vary from this precise number to an unimportant degree.

[0031] As used herein, the term 'fencing' and the like includes balustrades. The term 'fencing' as used herein can be interchangeable with the term 'fencing and/or balustrades. Furthermore, the term 'fencing' includes within its scope both fencing that comprises substantially vertical and horizontal oriented slats. In this regard, the fence posts described herein can be utilized in both in substantially horizontally and vertical orientations.

[0032] Typically, in slat fencing, slats are placed and supported by adjacent fence posts. In this regard, fence posts are provided with a channel which can accept the slats. Once the slats have been received in the channel, they can be positioned and secured thereto by fixing or welding.

[0033] The present invention resides in a slat stabilizer and a particular fence post. Shown in FIG 1 is an end of an embodiment of the fence post 100. The present slat stabilizer can be utilized for both full posts and side frame systems. The fence post 100 is an end fence post wherein the fence post comprises a single channel 110. It will be appreciated that the fence post may comprise one or more channels. In one embodiment, the fence post comprises one, two or three channels. In one embodiment, the fence post comprises two channels. In this embodiment, the two channels may be substantially aligned or unaligned. In one embodiment, the two channels are positioned at about 90° to each other. In another embodiment, the two channels are orientated at about 180° relative to each other. It will be appreciated by the person skilled in the art that the fence post may comprise any number of channels at many different angles depending on the dimension and shape of the fencing required.

[0034] The opening of the channel 110 is defined by a pair of rails 102, 104. Each rail 102, 104 is formed of a first member 102a, 104a and a second member 102b, 104b, respectively. Each of the first member 102a, 104a and the second member 102b, 104b comprise a ledge at a distal end thereof which define an opening. This opening is an opening to the rail. The rails 102, 104 are sized and dimensioned to retain an elongate member therein (mentioned in more detail hereinafter). The rails 102, 104 are preferably aligned and/or opposed. The rails 102, 104 are adapted to receive a slat stabilizer.

[0035] In a first aspect, although it need not be the only or indeed the broadest aspect, the invention resides in a slat stabilizer for slat fencing comprising:

an elongate member adapted to slidably engage a rail of a fence post; wherein the elongate member comprises a first end and a second end, wherein the first end and the second end each comprise a protrusion extending in the same direction.

[0036] Shown in FIG 2 is an embodiment of a slat stabilizer 200. The slat stabilizer 200 comprises an elongate member. The elongate member comprises a first end 210 and a second end 220. The first end 210 comprises a protrusion 215. The second end 220 comprises a protrusion 225. Protrusions 215, 225 extend in the same direction. In the embodiment shown, the protrusions 215, 225 are located adjacent distal ends of the respective end. In another embodiment, the protrusions are located at distal ends of the respective end. In one embodiment, the first end 210 and the second end 220 is connected by an intermediate portion. The protrusions 215, 225 are sized and dimensioned to engage, stabilize and retain a fence slat. The elongate body is slidably engageable with the rails 102, 104.

[0037] In one embodiment, the slat stabilizer 200 comprises a base 217. In this embodiment, the slat stabilizer 200 further comprises a top 218 extending away from the base 217 along the length thereof. The top 218 is sized and dimensioned such that it is substantially the same as the opening to the rail or slightly smaller than the opening to the rail such that the slat stabilizer 200 is slidable and engageable with the rail. In this embodiment, the previously mentioned protrusions 215, 225 extend away from the top 218. In one embodiment, the slat stabilizer 200 comprises a step between the top 218 and the base 217. The base 217 allows the slat stabilizer to engage the rails and be retained therein. In use, the protrusions 215, 225 extend away from the ledges. These protrusions 225 engage a slat inserted into the channel 110 and prevent rattling of the slat. In one embodiment, the base 217 has a height substantially the same as, or slightly less than, the depth of the rail such that the elongate member is securely retained and slidable in the rail.

[0038] In use, a pair of elongate members 200 may be inserted into rails 102, 104. A slat may then be inserted into the channel 110. The slat engages the protrusions 215, 225 and hold the slat thereto and this alleviates the problem of rattling. A spacer device 250 may be utilized with the elongate members 220 to space the slats.

[0039] Shown in FIG 3 is an embodiment of the spacer device 250. The spacer device 250 comprises a base 251 having a width. The spacer device 250 further comprises a channel 254 adapted to engage the second member 102a, 102b. In use, the base 251 engages the rails 102, 104, and the channel 254 engages the second member 102a, 102b. The spacer device 250 suitably engages the elongate members therebelow and thereabove. The spacer device 250 comprises a top surface 253 which, in use, can be utilized to space adjacent slats. This provides a simple manner in which the spacing of the slats can be determined and be made consistent. This also allows for an aesthetically pleasing facade to be provided. The spacer device 250 spaces adjacent slats by sitting on top of the slat therebelow, and the slat thereabove sits on top of the spacer device.

[0040] In one embodiment, the spacer device 250 is sized and dimensioned such that the spacing between adjacent slats is consistent. In this regard, the spacer device 250 is suitably dimensioned to consistently achieve this spacing. In one embodiment, the top surface 253 is dimensioned to space slats between about 1mm and about 40mm, between about 5mm and about 20mm, between about 5mm and about 10mm, or about 5mm, about 9mm, or about 20mm. It will be appreciated by the person skilled in the art that above list of spacing merely exemplifies the spacing between adjacent slats and that other spacing may be selected by the consumer.

[0041] In another embodiment, the spacer device 250 and the slat stabilizer 200 can be incorporated into the same device. Shown in FIG 4 is a perspective view of a slat stabilizer 300 that incorporates both the spacer device 250 and elongate members 200. FIG 5 shows a top view of the slat stabilizer 300 of FIG 4. The slat stabilizer 300 comprises a first elongate member 305a and a second elongate member 305b. The first elongate member 305a comprises a first end 310a and a second end 320a connected by an intermediate portion 330a. The second elongate member 305b comprises a first end 310b and a second end 320b connected by an intermediate portion 330b. The first ends 310a, 310b each comprises a protrusion 315a, 315b. The second end 320a, 320b each comprises a protrusion 325a, 325b. In the embodiment shown, the protrusions 315a, 315b, 325a, 325b are located at a distal end of their respective ends. However, it will be appreciated that the protrusions 315a, 315b, 325a, 325b may be located adjacent their respective ends.

[0042] The intermediate portions 330a, 330b are connected by a spacer portion 350. The spacer portion 350 is adapted to sit between adjacent slats (similar to the abovementioned spacer device 250). The spacer portion 350 further comprises a channel 354 adapted to engage the second member 102a, 102b of a fence post. The spacer portion 350 comprises a base 351 which, in one embodiment, is consistent with the base of the elongate members; and a top 353 connected to the base by body 352. The base 351, top surface 353 and body 352 define the channel 354 adapted to engage the second member 102a, 102b of the fence post.

[0043] In slat stabilizer 300, the protrusions of the elongate members 305a, 305b engage a slat to prevent rattling. Furthermore, the spacer portion 350 spaces adjacent slats to ensure that an even spacing is observed. It will be appreciated that the slat stabilizer is also a spacer device. For ease of description, the features mentioned in relation to the spacer device may be applied to the spacer portion. It will be appreciated that welding and securing the slat to the fence post is not required. The present invention provides a quick and easy method of securing slats in a slat fence, whilst preventing rattling and allows for the devices to be coated prior to installation. This is a significant advantage in the art.

[0044] In one embodiment, the slat stabilizer is integrally formed. The term 'integrally formed', as used herein, refers to a device being formed of a unitary piece of material.

[0045] In one embodiment, the first end and/or the second end comprise one or more lines of weakness. The lines of weakness define frangible portions that can be removed from the slat stabilizer. This is particularly useful when the slat is desired to be at the particular height. For instance, the lowest slat may be desired to be raised at a particular height relative to the ground. In this regard, the first end of the second end can be simply 'snapped' or 'shortened' to accommodate the desired height. Furthermore, the topmost slat stabilizer may also be shortened, if required.

[0046] In one embodiment, the slat stabilizer is for use with fence posts. In an embodiment, the slat stabilizer is when used with fence posts. In one embodiment, the fence post is a full post or a partial post. In one embodiment, the fence posts are substantially vertically orientated. In another embodiment, the fence posts are substantially horizontally orientated.

[0047] Shown in FIG 8 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a spacer device. Spacer device 850 comprises a base 851 having a width. The spacer device 850 further comprises channels 854 adapted to engage the second member 102a, 102b. Each channel is defined by a distal end of the base 851 and a hook 854 extending away from the base 851. The hook extends away from the base 851 adjacent a distal end thereof. As shown, the hook is formed of a substantially perpendicular member extending away from the base, a substantially parallel member extending away from a distal end of the substantially perpendicular member, and a small protrusion extending away from a distal end of the substantially parallel member back towards the base 851. The defined channel 854 engages the rails 102, 104 and is retained therein. The spacer device 850 further comprises a support member 856 that supports and/or abuts an adjacent slat. The support member 850 preferably extends centrally away from the base 851. Preferably, the support member 856 is substantially perpendicular to the base 851. As shown, the hook 855 and support member 856 extend away from the base 851 in the same direction.

[0048] In one embodiment, the spacer device 850 is sized and dimensioned such that the spacing between adjacent slats is consistent. In this regard, the spacer device 850 is suitably dimensioned to consistently achieve this spacing. In one embodiment, the spacer device 850 is dimensioned to space slats between about 1mm and about 40mm, between about 5mm and about 20mm, between about 5mm and about 10mm, or about 5mm, about 9mm, or about 20mm. It will be appreciated by the person skilled in the art that above list of spacing merely exemplifies the spacing between adjacent slats and that other spacing may be selected by the consumer.

[0049] In a second aspect, the invention resides in a kit for assembling a slat fence comprising:

a fence post comprising a channel defined by a pair of rails; and

[0050] The slat stabilizer, fence post and components thereof are as substantially described hereinabove.

[0051] In an embodiment, the kit further comprises a fence slat adapted to engage the fence post. The slat stabilizer is also adapted to engage the fence slat.

[0052] In third aspect, the invention resides in a method of installing a slat between adjacent posts, the method including the steps of:

inserting a slat into a channel of the first fence post defined by respective rails and a channel of the second fence post defined by respective rails,

to thereby install a slat between adjacent fence posts.

[0053] The slat stabilizer, fence posts and components thereof are as substantially described hereinabove.

[0054] Shown in FIG 6 is an exploded view of a fence post 100 in conjunction with fence slats 600a, 600b. Initially, a first slat stabilizer (not shown) may be slidably inserted to the rails 102, 104. A first slat 600a is then inserted into the channel 110. The first slat 600a engages the first slat stabilizer. A second slat stabilizer 300 is then inserted into the rails 102, 104 and slid until they engage the first slat 600a. In this regard, the spacing portion 350 abuts the top surface of the first slat 600a and the protrusions of the slat stabilizer 300 engage the side surface of the first slat 600a. A second slat 600b may be inserted into the channel 110 and slid until it engages the protrusions of the second slat stabilizer 300. The protrusions of the second slat stabilizer 300 engage both the slat thereabove and therebelow and prevents rattling. A further slat stabilizer may then be inserted followed by a slat. These steps may be repeated to form a slat fence comprising a plurality of slats.

[0055] The spacing portion ensures that the spacing between adjacent slats is consistent. Furthermore, no welding or securing is required as the slat stabilizer is sufficient to secure, retain and hold the slats in the desired position.

[0056] FIG 7 shows an exploded view of a fence post 100 in conjunction with slat stabilizer 200 and spacer device 250. Initially, a pair of slat stabilizers 200 are slidably inserted into the rails 102, 103. A first slat 700a is then inserted into the channel 110. The first slat 700a engages the first pair of slat stabilizers 200. The first slat 700a engages the protrusions of the pair of slat stabilizers 200. A spacer device 250 is then inserted in the rails 102, 103. The spacer device 250 suitably abut the slat stabilizers 200. The spacer device 250 further abut a top of the first slat 700a. A second pair of slat stabilizers 200 are slidably inserted into the rails 102, 103. The second pair of slat stabilizers 200 engage spacer device 250. A second slat 700b may then by inserted into the channel and engages the protrusions of the second pair of slat stabilizers 200. The protrusions of each pair of slat stabilizers 200 engage the slats thereabove and therebelow. A further spacer device 250 may be inserted thereon, and a further pair of slat stabilizer 200 may be inserted thereon, followed by a further slat. These steps may be repeated to form a slat fence comprising a plurality of slats.

[0057] For completeness, it should be noted that FIGs 6 and 7 only show one fence post for exemplification purposes, and that an adjacent fence post may also follow the same steps to ensure that the slats are stably supported.

[0058] In the embodiment where the first fence post and second fence post are top and bottom posts (e.g., in a balustrade), the slats, slat stabilizers, spacer device (if separate) and the first and second fence posts may be assembled and then affixed to vertical posts.

[0059] In a fourth aspect, the invention resides in a slat fence assembly comprising:

at least two fence posts each having a channel defined by a pair of rails therein;

at least one slat adapted to engage the channel.

[0060] The slat stabilizer, fence post and components thereof are as substantially described hereinabove.

[0061] For ease of description, the above description describes the invention in relation to vertical fence posts. However, the person skilled in the art will appreciate that the vertical fence posts can similarly be utilized as a top post and a bottom post such that the slats, slat stabilizers and components thereof can be utilized by sliding them horizontally along the rails of the top post and the bottom post. It will be appreciated that the mechanism of action mentioned hereinabove is equally applicable to substantially horizontally orientated rails, and thus balustrades.

[0062] The above description of various embodiments of the present invention is provided for purposes of description to one of ordinary skill in the related art. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to a single disclosed embodiment. As mentioned above, numerous alternatives and variations to the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art of the above teaching. Accordingly, while some alternative embodiments have been discussed specifically, other embodiments will be apparent or relatively easily developed by those of ordinary skill in the art. Accordingly, this invention is intended to embrace all alternatives, modifications and variations of the present invention that have been discussed herein, and other embodiments that fall within the spirit and scope of the above described invention.

Claims

1. A slat stabilizer for slat fence comprising:

an elongate member adapted to slidably engage a rail of a fence post;

2. A kit for assembling a slat fence comprising:

a fence post comprising a channel defined by a pair of rails; and

a slat stabilizer of claim 1 adapted to engage one or more rails of the fence post.

3. A method of installing a slat between adjacent posts, the method including the steps of:

inserting a slat stabilizer of claim 1 into one or more rails of a first fence post;

inserting a second stabilizer of claim 1 into one or more rails of a second fence post; and

to thereby install a slat between adjacent fence posts.

4. A slat fence assembly comprising:

at least two fence posts each having a channel defined by a pair of rails;

at least two slat stabilizers comprising an elongate member adapted to slidably engage at least one of the pair of rails, wherein each elongate member comprising a first end and a second end, and wherein the first end and the second end each comprise a protrusion extending in the same direction; and at least one slat adapted to engage the channel.