GB2407107A

GB2407107A - Hinged ground anchor

Info

Publication number: GB2407107A
Application number: GB0422715A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Evan Alan David Horton
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2003-10-13
Filing date: 2004-10-13
Publication date: 2005-04-20
Also published as: GB0422715D0

Abstract

A ground anchor comprises first and second stakes (2), each having a first ground engaging end (3) and a second end (4) which are hinged (9) to a third member (5) which has means, such as a hook (8), for tethering a guy rope. The ground anchor may be moved from a storage position, in which it is lockable, where the three members are approximately parallel and adjacent (Figure 2), to an operative configuration where the third member is at an acute angle to the stakes, to an extended position (Figure 5) where the members are parallel and in the same plane. The members may be hinged by a rod (Figures 12 and 13). Alternatively, the stakes may be integrally formed from a rod (10) and linked by a looped portion (11), the third member may also be formed from a rod (14) and having hooked ends (16) which in use engage with the looped portion of stakes to form a hinge.

Description

Ground Anchor The present invention relates to a versatile ground anchor,

for example a tent peg, for providing an anchorage point for tethering lines or guy ropes of tents, marquees or other applications.

Within the context of the present application, the word "comprises" is taken to mean "includes among other things", and is not taken to mean consists of only.

Within the context of the present application, the word "about" is taken to mean "+ 10%".

Traditional tent pegs comprise a straight shaft of wood with a point at one end and a notch at the other end. The pointed end is pushed into the ground and a guy rope can be attached to the end with the notch. These traditional tent pegs are heavy and bulky and are generally used only for large tents and marquees. Lighter and smaller tent pegs comprising a metal skewer can be used for smaller tents. The metal skewer is either bent at one end to form a hook or comprises an open eye at one end for attachment of a guy rope. However, this type of tent peg is often not satisfactory because the metal skewer tends to pull out of the ground when subjected to a pulling force from a guy rope, particularly if the ë ground is soft. Furthermore, this type of tent peg can be difficult to insert . into hard or rocky ground, tending to bend under the force required for: insertion. . . -e. . ë - Furthermore, tent pegs comprising a metal skewer, once inserted into the .

ground, have only a small portion of the peg exposed above the ground. . . They can therefore be extremely difficult to locate for removal once guy. ..

ropes have been removed, particularly in long or thick grass or in sandy areas.

Angled tent pegs comprising a portion for penetrating the ground and a member extending at an angle thereto are known and have been described in GB 2216559 and GB 2353542. GB 2216559 describes an angled tent peg comprising a spike for penetrating the ground and a shank comprising a hook wherein the shank extends from one end of the spike at an acute angle. GB 2353542 describes a ground anchor, for example a tent peg, which comprises a channel section member for penetrating the ground and a second member at or adjacent one end of the channel section member and projecting in use at an angle thereto.

The second member is provided with an attachment point for a tether.

The channel section member and the second member may be mutually pivoted or rigidly interconnected.

Angled ground anchors provide the advantage that they tend to embed deeper into the ground when subjected to a pulling force on the attachment point from a guy rope. However, one disadvantage of an angled ground anchor is that it takes up more space than a traditional peg.

Remarkably, the present invention provides an improved ground anchor which has enhanced anchoring ability, all terrain versatility and which can be stored safely and compactly.

In a first aspect the present invention provides a ground anchor which comprises three members, wherein first and second members define : separate stakes, each having a first end and a second end, the first end. . ë....

being for penetrating the ground and the second end projecting.

therefrom; the third member being hinged to the stakes adjacent their second ends and comprising means for attachment of a tether. .. . ail::. . -

In a preferred embodiment the two stakes comprise a point at their first end.

In a preferred embodiment the means for attachment of a tether comprises a hook.

In a preferred embodiment the third member is hinged to the stakes by a hinge.

In a preferred embodiment the stakes and the third member are rotatable about the hinge, between a storage configuration and an operative configuration, wherein, in the storage configuration the stakes and the third member lie approximately parallel to each other and the third member is proximal to the stakes, and wherein in the operative configuration the third member projects from adjacent the second end of the stakes and is not parallel with the stakes.

In the context of the present application, "approximately parallel" is taken to mean "at an angle of less than 20 , preferably less than 10 , more preferably less than 5 , even more preferably parallel".

In a preferred embodiment, in the operative configuration the third member projects from adjacent the second end of the stakes, forming an acute angle with the stakes. Preferably the acute angle is in the range of between about 40 and about 65 . More preferably, the acute angle is in the range of between about 45 and about 60 .

In a preferred embodiment the ground anchor comprises a first locking means enabling the stakes and the member to be reversibly locked in the storage configuration. Preferably, in the storage configuration the first end of each stake is shielded within the locking means.

In a preferred embodiment the ground anchor comprises a second locking means enabling the stakes and the member to be reversibly locked in the operative configuration.

In a preferred embodiment the stakes and the third member are rotatable about the hinge to an extended configuration wherein the stakes and the third member are positioned approximately parallel to each other and the third member is distal to the stakes. Preferably the ground anchor additionally comprises a stop means which prevents further rotation of the stakes and the third member once the extended configuration has been reached.

In a preferred embodiment of the operative configuration the distance between the stakes tapers from the first end to the second end of each stake so that the first ends of the stakes are distal to each other and the second ends of the stakes are proximal to each other. Preferably, in this configuration the stakes are positioned at an angle in the range of about 1 to about 45 to each other. More preferably, the stakes are positioned at an angle in the range of about 5 to about 20 to each other. Most preferably, the stakes are positioned at an angle in the range of about 10 to about 15 to each other.

In a preferred embodiment of the storage configuration the stakes are approximately parallel.

In a preferred embodiment the third member comprises a first end and a second end wherein the first end comprises the means for attachment of a tether and the second end adjoins the first and second members.

Preferably, a shaft extends between the first end and the second end of : the third member. . Preferably, the third member comprises a coloured or reflective coating. Preferably, the coating extends from the first end of the third member to. . adjacent the second end of the third member.

In a preferred embodiment of a ground anchor according to the present invention the first and second members are formed integrally, preferably from a first rod which is moulded, bent or otherwise shaped. Preferably, a second rod is moulded, bent or otherwise shaped to form the third member. Preferably the two rods are cylindrical.

In a preferred embodiment the ground anchor comprises metal or a plastics material. Preferably the ground anchor comprises a high tenslie metal. More preferably the ground anchor comprises stainless steel.

In a preferred embodiment the first rod comprises straight first and second members linked by a looped portion wherein the first and second members define the two stakes.

In a preferred embodiment the second rod comprises two shafts, each having a first end and a second end, a hook and two end portions wherein a first end of each shaft adjoins the hook, the two shafts are positioned alongside each other and one end portion extends from a second end of each shaft. The two shafts are generally straight. The term "alongside" is taken to means that the two shafts may be positioned touching one another or, alternatively, may be positioned with a space provided between them.

In a preferred embodiment the looped portion of the first rod and the end portions of the second rod are interlocked, forming the hinge.

In an alternative embodiment the first rod and the second rod are of a ' : square or rectangular cross section. Preferably the first rod is formed into. . -....

a "U" shape and the second rod comprises a first end and a second end. . wherein the first end of the second rod forms a hook and the second end of the second rod is hinged to the first rod at or adjacent the apex of the. . "U" shape. . .

In a further alternative embodiment the first and second members define stakes that comprise bars linked by a cylinder which adjoins the second end of each stake. Preferably the third member is positioned between the bars and is hinged thereto, with the cylinder acting as a hinge pin.

In a preferred embodiment the bars are planar.

In use, the ground anchor is locked in the operative configuration for insertion into the ground. The third member is held parallel to the ground and the stakes are thereby positioned at the correct angle for insertion into the ground. A force is applied at the second end of the stakes, thereby inserting the stakes into the ground, until the third member lies flush with the ground. The force is applied, for example, by hitting the ground anchor with a mallet.

Advantageously the invention provides a ground anchor, for example a tent peg, that provides improved anchorage compared to known ground anchors. This improvement arises because of the angle formed between the stakes and the member when the ground anchor is in its operative configuration. This angle provides that when the stakes are inserted in the ground, increasing the pulling force on the member causes the stakes to embed further into the ground.

Furthermore, a ground anchor according to the present invention which comprises two stakes provides improved anchorage compared to known ground anchors which comprise a single stake. A ground anchor

-

comprising two stakes with a particular combined cross sectional area generates greater resistance than a ground anchor comprising a single....

stake of the same cross sectional area. . . :..

Advantageously, the taper of the distance between the two stakes further increases the anchorage provided by the ground anchor. . Advantageously, an embodiment of the present invention provides a ground anchor which can be locked into a compact and safe storage configuration wherein the pointed ends of the stakes are not exposed and therefore will not cause injury or damage to a bag in which the ground anchor is stored.

A ground anchor according to an embodiment of the present invention is easy to use because, in the operative configuration, the stakes can easily be positioned at the correct angle for insertion into the ground by holding the third member parallel to the ground.

Advantageously, an embodiment of the present invention the third member allows the ground anchor to be held at a position clear from where the ground anchor is struck with a mallet for insertion into the ground, thus reducing the risk of injury.

Advantageously, an embodiment of a ground anchor according to the present invention comprising two stakes provides enhanced stability over a ground anchor comprising a single stake when the ground anchor is being inserted into the ground, reducing the possibility of glancing hits of a mallet and therefore increasing ease and efficiency of use.

Advantageously, an embodiment of a ground anchor of the present invention can be used to provide anchorage in a large variety of terrains and conditions. :::: .-

Advantageously, an embodiment of a ground anchor of the present ^ invention can be easily removed from the ground by placing a rounded object under the third member, near to the hinge. The rounded object.

can act as a fulcrum and the third member as a lever. By applying pressure to the hook end of the third member, the stakes can be removed . from the ground. :. ë..

Advantageously the coloured or reflective coating of an embodiment of the third member and the large exposed area of the third member when the ground anchor is inserted into the ground make the ground anchor easy to locate and recover once guy ropes have been removed.

Advantageously, a ground anchor according to the present invention has a low profile when inserted into the ground. In addition, in use, when the stakes of an embodiment of the present invention are inserted in the ground, all parts of the ground anchor projecting from the ground are rounded. These features, in combination with the highly visible coating of the member, reduce the risk of injury by tripping or standing on the ground anchor.

Additional features and advantages of the present invention are described in, and will be apparent from, the description of the presently preferred embodiments which are set out below with reference to the drawings in which: Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a ground anchor according to the present invention, in the operative configuration.

Figure 2 shows a perspective view of the ground anchor in the storage configuration.

Figure 3 shows a perspective view of the hook of the ground anchor. .

Figure 4 shows a plan view of the looped portion of the first rod of the: ground anchor. ::

Figure 5 shows a perspective view of the ground anchor in the extended configuration. . .. ë-. :- .

Figure 6 shows the ground anchor in use, with the stakes penetrating the ground and the third member lying flush with the ground.

Figure 7 shows the ground anchor in use on rocky ground.

Figure 8 shows the ground anchor in use in sand or soft soil, in combination with a sand anchor.

Figure 9 shows the ground anchor in use as a wedge between tree trunks or in rock crevices.

Figure 10 shows the ground anchor in use, clipped around a small branch or sapling.

Figure 11 shows the ground anchor in use in combination with a harness.

Figure 12 shows a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a ground anchor according to the present invention, in the operative configuration.

Figure 13 shows a perspective view of a further alternative embodiment of a ground anchor according to the present invention, in the operative configuration.

Figures 14 and 15 show perspective views of a preferred embodiment of a ground anchor according to the present invention, having an alternative... .

hook formation. ..

A preferred embodiment of a ground anchor according to the present....

invention is shown in figures 1 to 5. The ground anchor comprises three. . . - members, wherein the first and second members (1) define separate stakes (2), each having a first end (3) and a second end (4), the first end (3) comprising a point for facilitating penetration of the ground. The third.. . member (5) comprises a first end (6) and a second end (7), wherein the first end (6) comprises a hook (8) for attachment of a tether and the second end (7) adjoins the stakes (2) adjacent their second end (4) and is hinged thereto by a hinge (9).

The stakes (2) and the third member (5) are rotatable about the hinge (9), between a storage configuration, shown in figure 2, and an operative configuration, shown in figure 1. In the storage configuration the stakes (2) and the third member (5) are positioned approximately parallel to each other and the third member (5) is proximal to the stakes (2). In the operative configuration the third member (5) projects from adjacent the second end (4) of the stakes (2), forming an acute angle with the stakes (2) The first and second members (1) are formed integrally from a first cylindrical rod (10) which comprises straight first and second members (1) linked by a looped portion (11), wherein the first and second members define the two stakes (2). The second end (4) of each stake (2) is adjacent the looped portion (11). The stakes (2) are positioned in a plane and, in the operative configuration, the distance between the stakes (2) tapers from the first end (3) to the second end (4). This taper arises due to the configuration of the looped portion (11), shown in figure 4.

The looped portion (11) comprises two turns (12), one extending from the second end (4) of each stake (2), initially turning away from the plane in which the stakes (2) are positioned and towards the second end (4) of the stake and then towards the space between the two stakes (2). The turns (12) extend between the stakes (2) and through the plane in which the stakes (2) are positioned and meet at the apex (13) of the looped portion (11) ë-.

The ground anchor comprises a second cylindrical rod (14) which is..

moulded, bent or otherwise shaped to form the third member (5). The second rod (14) comprises a hook (8), two shafts (15), which are generally straight, and two end portions (16). The hook (8) comprises a loop (17) and two connecting portions (18). The shafts (15) each comprise a first end (19) and a second end (20). A connecting portion (18) extends from the first end (19) of each shaft (15), approximately perpendicularly to the shafts (15), such that together the shafts (15) and the connecting portions (18) define an "L" shape. The shafts (15) are positioned alongside each other and the connecting portions (18) are positioned alongside each other. The shafts (15) and the connecting portions (18) are shown in the illustrated embodiment to be touching, but alternatively, there may be a space provided between them. The connecting portions (18) each comprise a first end (18a) and a second end (18b), wherein the first end (18a) is adjacent the first end (19) of the shafts (15). The loop (17) extends from the second end (18b) of the connecting portions (18), towards the shafts (15), forming an acute angle with the connecting portions (18). Alternatively, the loop could form an obtuse angle with the connecting portions (18). The loop (17) comprises first and second members (17a) which extend from the second ends (18b) of the connecting portions (18). The first and second members (17a) each comprise a first end adjacent the second ends (18b) of the connecting portions (18) and a second end (21) distal thereto. In addition, the loop (17) comprises a third member (17b) which extends between the second ends (21) of the first and second members (17a), generally perpendicular to the shafts (15). The loop (17) therefore defines an approximately triangular shape. The first and second members (17a) each comprise a kink (17d), preferably adjacent the second ends (21). An end portion (16) extends perpendicularly from the second end (20) of each shaft (15), to define a "T" shape. Each end portion (16) then loops back on itself to provide a loop. :..

An embodiment of a ground anchor according to the present invention,. ..

having an alternative hook arrangement, is shown in figures 14 and 15.. . The ground anchor is shown in its operative configuration in figure 14 and in its storage configuration in figure 15. In this embodiment, the two connecting portions (18) of the hook (8) extend from the first ends (19) of the shafts (15) and form an obtuse angle of approximately 135 with the shafts (15). The connecting portions (18) each comprise a first end (18a) and a second end (18b), wherein the first end (18a) is adjacent the first end (19) of the shafts (15). The connecting portions (18) each comprise a kink (18c), adjacent the second end (18b), such that the connecting portion (18) adjacent the second end (18b) is approximately perpendicular to the shafts (15). The loop (17) extends from the second end (18b) of each connecting portion (18). The loop (17) comprises first and second members (17a), which extend from the second end (18b) of the connecting portions (18). The first and second members (17a) are positioned in a plane that is approximately parallel to a plane within which the shafts (15) are positioned. The first and second members (17a) extend from the second ends (18b) of the connecting portions (18) at a divergent angle. Each of the first and second members (17a) has a first end adjacent the second end (18b) of the connecting portions (18) and a second end (21) distal thereto. The loop (17) comprises a third member (17b), which is generally straight, and which is positioned generally perpendicular to the shafts (15). The third member (17b) extends between the second ends (21) of the first and second members (17a) and is linked thereto by two turns (17c), which are positioned adjacent the seconds ends (21). The third member (17b) is positioned in a plane which is between the plane within which the shafts (15) are positioned and the plane within which the first and second members (17a) are positioned (as in the preferred embodiment shown in figures 14 and 15). Alternatively, the third member (17b) is positioned in a plane adjacent the plane within which the first and second members (17a) are positioned and distal to the plane within which the shafts (15) are positioned. In the storage configuration the stakes (2) and the shafts (15) of the third member (5) are positioned at an angle of less than 20 , preferably less than 10 , more preferably less than 5 away from parallel.

In use, the end portions (16) of the second rod (14) are interlocked with the looped portion (11) of the first rod (10), with the end portions (16) extending through the two turns (12) of the looped portion (11), thereby defining the hinge (9). The end portions (16) thereby form a hinge pin about which the stakes (2) and the third member (5) are rotatable. The end portions (16) loop back on themselves to provide a loop, around the turns (12) of the looped portion (11), thereby securing the end portions (16) within the turns (12).

The ground anchor comprises a first locking means (22) enabling it to be reversibly locked in the operative configuration. The first locking means (22), which is shown in figure 4, comprises the apex (13) of the looped portion (11) and two indentations (23) in the looped portion (11). In use, the apex (13) of the looped portion (11) acts as a stop to prevent further rotation of the third member (5) once the operative configuration is reached, by abutting the shafts (15) of the second rod (14). The shafts (15) of the second rod (14) are held at the correct angle to the stakes (2) by being locked between the apex (13) of the looped portion (11) and the indentations (23).

The ground anchor additionally comprises a second locking means (24) enabling it to be reversibly locked in the storage configuration. The second locking means (24) comprises the hook (8) of the second rod (14).

The loop (17) of the hook (8) is dimensioned so that the first ends (3) of the stakes (2) can pass through the loop (17). Sideways tension is applied to the stakes (2) in order for them to pass through the loop (17) ' and due to this tension the first ends (3) of the stakes (2) will spring: outwards, so as to abut the second ends (21) of the first and second.

members (17a) of the loop (17), thereby securing the first ends (3) of the.. . stakes (2) within the hook (8). In the storage configuration the first ends '.

(3) of the stakes (2) preferably do not project from the hook (8). . ë.. i.

The stakes (2) and the third member (5) of the ground anchor are rotatable about the hinge (9) to an extended configuration, as shown in figure 5, wherein the stakes (2) and the third member (5) lie approximately parallel to each other and the third member (5) is distal to the stakes (2). The ground anchor comprises a stop means (25) for preventing further rotation once the extended configuration has been reached. The stop means (25) comprises the looped portion (11) of the first rod (10) and the end portions (16) of the second rod (14). When the ground anchor reaches the extended configuration the looped portion (11) abuts the end portions (16) and further rotation is thereby prevented.

An embodiment of the present invention provides a ground anchor which is versatile and can be used to provide anchorage in a variety of terrains, as shown in figures 6 to 11. Figure 6 shows the ground anchor in its standard use, with the stakes (2) penetrating the ground (26), the third member (5) Iying parallel and flush with the ground (26) and a guy rope (27) attached to the hook (8).

Figure 7 shows that the ground anchor can be used to provide anchorage on rocky terrain. In this use the ground anchor is positioned in its operative position, with the stakes (2) Iying approximately parallel to the ground and weighted down with rocks (28) placed atop the stakes (2).

This is preferable to a guy rope simply being tied around a rock or placed under a rock which has been known to cause a guy rope to become crushed or frayed.

Figure 8 shows how the ground anchor can be used to provide anchorage in sand or soft soils. The stakes (2) and the majority of the third member (5) penetrate the sand or soft soil, with the stakes (2) Iying approximately

A- -

parallel to the ground (26). A rock, a log or the like is positioned atop the, stakes (2) to secure the ground anchor in place. In addition, a sand. .

anchor (29) can be attached to the ground anchor to provide further....

anchorage.

The ground anchor can also be used in its storage configuration to provide anchorage. Figure 9 shows use of the ground anchor as a wedge between tree trunks or in rock crevices. Figure 10 shows use of the ground anchor as a clip around small branches or saplings. Figure 11 shows use of the ground anchor as a point of attachment for a harness which can be placed around, for example a tree trunk.

Furthermore, a ground anchor according to the present invention can be used for applications other than providing anchorage, for example as a cooking utensil. In its extended configuration the ground anchor can be used as a fork for cooking food over a fire or as a rotisserie stand.

A ground anchor according to the present invention can be of a variety of sizes, for example, a ground anchor comprising stakes of about 6 inches (about 15 cm) in length can be used for small and medium sized tents. A ground anchor comprising stakes of about 9-12 inches (about 22-30cm) in length is suitable for use with larger tents, caravanning and campers. A heavy duty ground anchor comprising stakes of about 24 inches (about 60 cm) in length can be used to anchor marquees and also in rescue application where insufficient terrain features exist for securing rescue ropes.

An alternative embodiment of a ground anchor according to the present invention is shown in figure 12. The ground anchor comprises a first rod (30) and a second rod (31), both of a square or rectangular cross section.

The ground anchor comprises first and second members (32) which are formed integrally from the first rod (30). The first rod (30) is formed into a substantially "U" shape. The ground anchor additionally comprises a third member (33) which is formed from the second rod (31). The second rod (31) comprises a first end (34) and a second end (35). The first rod (30) comprises straight first and second members (32), which define two stakes (36), and a curved portion (37). A second end (35) of the second rod (31) is hinged to the first rod (30) at or adjacent the curved portion (37). A hinge pin (38) extends through the curved portion (37) and the second end (35) of the second rod (31). A locking means (39) is provided which enables the ground anchor to be reversibly locked in the operative configuration. The locking means (39) comprises a projection (40) adjacent the second end (35) of the second rod (31), which when the ground member is in its operative configuration abuts the curved portion (37) of the first rod (30), thereby preventing further rotation of the second rod (31) once the operative configuration is reached. The first end (34) of the second rod (31) forms a hook (41). This embodiment is suitable for use in heavy-duty applications, for example providing anchorage for large tents or marquees.

A further alternative embodiment of a ground anchor according to thepresent invention is shown in figure 13. The ground anchor comprises first and second members (42) which define two stakes (43) each of which comprises a planar bar. The stakes (43) comprise a first end (44) and a second end (45). The second end (45) of each stake adjoins a first cylinder (46). The stakes (43) are positioned parallel to one another with a gap (47) between them. The ground anchor comprises a third member (48) which has a first end (49) and a second end (50), wherein the first end (49) comprises a hook (51) and the second end (50) is provided with a hole (52). The second end (50) of the third member (48) is located between the second ends (45) of the stakes (43) and hinged thereto, with the first cylinder (46) passing through the hole (52) and thereby acting as a hinge pin. The ground anchor is additionally provided with a locking means (53) enabling the ground anchor to be reversibly locked in an operative configuration. The locking means (53) comprises a second .

cylinder (54) which is welded, moulded, fused or otherwise attached at an indentation (55) adjacent the second end (50) of the third member (48).

The second cylinder lies perpendicular to the third member (48) and parallel to the first cylinder (46). When the ground anchor is in the operative configuration the second cylinder (54) abuts the second ends (45) of the stakes (43), thereby preventing further rotation of the third member (48). This embodiment can be used in heavy-duty applications, for example to provide anchorage for a pulley or the like for removal of bogged down vehicles. Advantageously, this embodiment provides enhanced anchorage in sandy or soft soil due to the large surface area of the stakes.

It should be understood that various changes and modifications to the presently preferred embodiments described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention and without diminishing its attendant advantages. It is therefore intended that such changes and modifications are covered by the appended claims. - - .e - ë

- e. . . . - :. ë

Claims

Claims 1. A ground anchor which comprises three members, wherein first

and second members define separate stakes, each stake having a first end and a second end, the first end being for penetrating the ground and the second end projecting therefrom; the third member being hinged to the stakes adjacent their second ends and comprising means for attachment of a tether.
2. A ground anchor according to claim 1 wherein the two stakes comprise a point at their first end.
3. A ground anchor according to claim 1 or 2 wherein the means for attachment of a tether comprises a hook.
4. A ground anchor according to any one of claims 1 to 3 wherein the third member is hinged to the stakes by a hinge.
5. A ground anchor according to claim 4 wherein the stakes and the third member are rotatable about the hinge, between a storage ' configuration and an operative configuration, wherein, in the storage configuration the stakes and the third member are.

positioned approximately parallel to each other and the third member is proximal to the stakes, and wherein in the operative configuration the third member projects from adjacent the second. ale.

end of the stakes and is not parallel with the stakes.. .
6. A ground anchor according to claim 5 wherein, in the operative configuration the third member projects from adjacent the second end of the stakes, forming an acute angle with the stakes.
7. A ground anchor according to claim 6 wherein the acute angle is in the range of between about 40 and about 65 .
8. A ground anchor according to claim 7 wherein the acute angle is in the range of between about 45 and about 60 .
9. A ground anchor according to any one of claims 5 to 8 which comprises a first locking means enabling the stakes and the member to be reversibly locked in the storage configuration.
10. A ground anchor according to claim 9 wherein in the storage configuration the first end of each stake is shielded within the locking means.
11. A ground anchor according to any one of claims 5 to 10 which comprises a second locking means enabling the stakes and the member to be reversibly locked in the operative configuration.
12. A ground anchor according to any one of claims 4 to 11 wherein the stakes and the third member are rotatable about the hinge to an extended configuration wherein the stakes and the third member are positioned approximately parallel to each other and the third member is distal to the stakes.
13. A ground anchor according to claim 12 which additionally comprises a stop means which prevents further rotation of the stakes and the third member once the extended configuration has been reached.
14. A ground anchor according to any preceding claim wherein, in the operative configuration the distance between the stakes tapers from the first end to the second end of each stake so that the first ends of the stakes are distal to each other and the second ends of the stakes are proximal to each other.
15. A ground anchor according to claim 14 wherein in the operative configuration the stakes are positioned at an angle in the range of about 1 to about 45 from each other.
16. A ground anchor according to claim 15 wherein the stakes are positioned at an angle in the range of about 5 to about 20 from each other.
17. A ground anchor according to claim 16 wherein the stakes are positioned at an angle in the range of about 10 to about 15 from each other.
18. A ground anchor according to any one of claims 5 to 17 wherein, in the storage configuration the stakes are approximately parallel.
19. A ground anchor according to any preceding claim wherein the third member comprises a first end and a second end wherein the first end comprises the means for attachment of a tether and the second end adjoins the first and second members.
20. A ground anchor according to claim 19 wherein a shaft extends between the first end and the second end of the third member. . . -.-..
21. A ground anchor according to any preceding claim wherein the third .

member comprises a coloured or reflective coating. . --
22. A ground anchor according to claim 21 wherein the coating extends from the first end of the third member to adjacent the second end of the third member.
23. A ground anchor according to any preceding claim wherein the first and second members are formed integrally.
24. A ground anchor according to claim 23 wherein the first and second members are formed from a first rod which is moulded, bent or otherwise shaped.
25. A ground anchor according to claim 24 wherein the first rod is cylindrical
26. A ground anchor according to any preceding claim which comprises a second rod which is moulded, bent or otherwise shaped to form the third member.
27. A ground anchor according to claim 26 wherein the second rod is cylindrical.
28. A ground anchor according to any preceding claim which comprises metal or a plastics material.
29. A ground anchor according to claim 28 which comprises a high tensile metal. .
30. A ground anchor according to claim 29 which comprises stainless : steel. :-e
31. A ground anchor according to any one of claims 24 to 30 wherein ' the first rod comprises straight first and second members linked by....

a looped portion wherein the first and second members define the two stakes.
32. A ground anchor according to any one of claims 26 to 31 wherein the second rod comprises two shafts each having a first end and a second end, a hook and two end portions, wherein a first end of each shaft adjoins the hook, the two shafts are positioned alongside each other, and one end portion extends from a second end of each shaft.
33. A ground anchor according to claim 32 wherein the looped portion of the first rod and the end portions of the second rod are interlocked, forming the hinge.
34. A ground anchor according to claim 1 wherein the first and second members are formed from a first rod which is moulded, bent or otherwise shaped, the third member is formed from a second rod which is moulded, bent or otherwise shaped, and the first rod and the second rod are of a square or rectangular cross section.
35. A ground anchor according to claim 34 wherein the first rod is formed into a "U" shape and the second rod comprises a first end and a second end wherein the first end of the second rod forms a hook and the second end of the second rod is hinged to the first rod at or adjacent the apex of the "Un shape.
36. A ground anchor according to claim 1 wherein the first and second members define stakes that comprise bars linked by a cylinder.... ' which adjoins the second end of each stake. :
37. A ground anchor according to claim 36 wherein the third member lies between the bars and is hinged thereto, with the cylinder acting as a hinge pin. . .
38. A ground anchor according to claim 36 or 37 wherein the bars are planar.
39. A ground anchor substantially as described herein with reference to or as illustrated in any of the figures of the accompanying drawings