US20100237143A1 - Flexible mailbox post assembly - Google Patents
Flexible mailbox post assembly Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20100237143A1 US20100237143A1 US12/405,364 US40536409A US2010237143A1 US 20100237143 A1 US20100237143 A1 US 20100237143A1 US 40536409 A US40536409 A US 40536409A US 2010237143 A1 US2010237143 A1 US 2010237143A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- post
- mailbox
- assembly
- mounting bracket
- flexible member
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
- A47G29/00—Supports, holders, or containers for household use, not provided for in groups A47G1/00-A47G27/00 or A47G33/00
- A47G29/12—Mail or newspaper receptacles, e.g. letter-boxes; Openings in doors or the like for delivering mail or newspapers
- A47G29/1209—Rural letter-boxes
- A47G29/1216—Supports
Definitions
- This invention relates generally to mailbox posts, and more particularly to a flex assembly for a mailbox post and mailbox post assembly incorporating such flex assembly.
- Mailbox posts are often damaged when under structural stress such as from, for example, the accumulation of heavy wet snow or ice on the posts. Damage to posts can also be caused when accidentally struck by objects such as snow plows or when intentionally struck by vandals. Frequent replacement of the entire posts when damaged, including removing and attaching posts to a base, can be burdensome, time consuming, expensive and annoying.
- a mailbox post assembly in an aspect of the present invention, includes a lower post having an upper surface, and an upper post having a lower surface.
- a flexible member is securably interposed between the upper surface of the lower post and lower surface of the upper post. The flexible member is configured to allow the upper post to flex relative to the lower post.
- the flexible member is part of a flex assembly further including a lower post mounting bracket, an upper post mounting bracket, and a shear washer.
- the lower post mounting bracket is seated on the upper surface of the lower post.
- the flexible member is accommodated on the lower post mounting bracket.
- An upper post mounting bracket is preferably disposed on the flexible member such that the flexible member is interposed between the lower post mounting bracket and the upper post mounting bracket.
- the upper post mounting bracket has at least two upwardly extending sidewalls defining holes for securing the sidewalls to the upper post.
- a shear washer is mounted on the upper post mounting bracket.
- the flex assembly is preferably covered with a snow and ice shield.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a flexible mailbox post assembly embodying the present invention.
- FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the mailbox posts and flex assembly of the flexible mailbox post assembly of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 3A is a perspective view of an upper portion of the mailbox post assembly showing the mailbox supports and decking.
- FIG. 3B is a disassembled view of the mailbox supports and decking.
- FIG. 4A is a right side view of the flexible mailbox post assembly in a rearward flexed position.
- FIG. 4B is a front view of the flexible mailbox post assembly in a sideward flexed position.
- FIG. 4C is a left side view of the flexible mailbox post assembly in an non-flexed position.
- FIG. 5A is a side view of a bottom plate mounting bracket of the flexible mailbox post assembly in accordance with the present invention.
- FIG. 5B is a top plan view of the bottom plate mounting bracket.
- FIG. 6A is a top plan view of a flexible member of the flexible mailbox post assembly in accordance with the present invention.
- FIG. 6B is a side view of the flexible member.
- FIG. 7A is a top plan view of a top plate of the flexible mailbox post assembly in a flat, preformed state in accordance with the present invention.
- FIG. 7B is a side view of the top plate with its sides bent into its operational shape.
- FIG. 8A is a top plan view of a washer plate of the flexible mailbox post assembly.
- FIG. 8B is a side view of the washer plate.
- FIG. 9A is a top plan view of a snow and ice shield of the flexible mailbox post assembly in accordance with the present invention.
- FIG. 9B is a side view of the snow and ice shield.
- a flexible mailbox post assembly embodying the present invention is indicated generally by the reference number 10 .
- the flexible mailbox post assembly 10 comprises a base 12 (see FIGS. 4A through 4C ), a lower post 14 mounted to the base, and an upper post 16 flexibly coupled to the lower post 14 via a flex assembly 18 .
- the base 12 is preferably made generally of concrete or other solid foundation material.
- the lower post 14 and the upper post 16 each preferably include four sides and are made generally of wood, but can be made of plastic or other suitable materials without departing from the scope of the present invention.
- the flex assembly 18 includes a flexible member 20 interposed between the lower post 14 and the upper post 16 .
- the flexible member 20 is preferably made of rubber, a rubberlike composite or other elastic, resilient and/or flexible material.
- the flexible member 20 is about 3 ⁇ 4 inch thick, about 31 ⁇ 2 inches wide and about 31 ⁇ 2 inches long, but can take other dimensions without departing from the scope of the present invention.
- the flexible member 20 defines a hole in a central portion for receiving a fastener therethrough to secure the flexible member 20 to the lower post 14 and the upper post 16 .
- the hole is about 0.328 inch in diameter, but can take other practical dimensions.
- an exemplary embodiment of the flex assembly 18 also includes a lower post mounting bracket 22 seated on and secured to an upper surface 24 of the lower post 14 .
- the flexible member 20 is accommodated on the lower post mounting bracket 22 .
- An upper post mounting bracket 26 for the upper post 16 is disposed on the flexible member 20 such that the flexible member is interposed between the lower post mounting bracket 22 and the upper post mounting bracket 26 .
- a shear washer 28 is mounted on the upper post mounting bracket 26 .
- the upper post 16 is seated on the shear washer 28 disposed within the upper post mounting bracket 26 .
- a fastener 30 such as a shear lag bolt extends through the upper surface 24 of the lower post 14 , the lower post mounting bracket 22 , the flexible member 20 , the upper post mounting bracket 26 , the shear washer 28 and through a lower surface 32 of the upper post 16 to secure the flex assembly 18 to the lower post 14 and to the upper post 16 .
- the upper post mounting bracket 26 is also preferably secured to the upper post 16 by additional fasteners 34 such as self tapping screws extending through at least two sidewalls 36 of the upper mounting bracket 26 into side surfaces 38 of the upper post 16 .
- the flexible mailbox post assembly 10 preferably further includes two side supports 40 each coupled to an opposite side of the upper post 16 relative to each other.
- a mailbox decking 42 is fixedly seated on the side supports 40 .
- a mailbox of the user's preference can then be mounted on the mailbox decking 42 .
- the flexible mailbox post assembly 10 preferably further includes a snow and ice shield 44 configured as a sleeve to slide along the upper post 14 and the lower post 16 into position over the flex assembly 18 to cover and thereby protect the flex assembly from snow, ice and other causes of possible damage otherwise resulting from exposure.
- a snow and ice shield 44 configured as a sleeve to slide along the upper post 14 and the lower post 16 into position over the flex assembly 18 to cover and thereby protect the flex assembly from snow, ice and other causes of possible damage otherwise resulting from exposure.
- the lower post mounting bracket 22 is preferably rectangular in a flat, preformed shape before bending it during fabrication into its functional shape.
- the lower post mounting bracket 22 defines a hole 46 in a central portion for receiving the fastener 30 therethrough.
- the lower post mounting bracket 22 preferably includes at least two sidewalls 48 extending upwardly from opposite sides of the lower post mounting bracket 22 for receiving and properly positioning the flexible member 20 therebetween.
- the lower post mounting bracket 22 is fabricated from steel stock, and is about 3/32 inch thick, and the side lengths are about 4 inches by about 31 ⁇ 2 inches in a flat, preformed state.
- the lower post mounting bracket 22 Upon forming the sidewalls in a bending operation, the lower post mounting bracket 22 is generally square and has side lengths of about 31 ⁇ 2 inches by about 31 ⁇ 2 inches.
- the sidewalls 48 extend upwardly about 1 ⁇ 4 inch from a floor portion 50 .
- the hole 46 defined in the lower post mounting bracket 22 for receiving the fastener 30 is about 0.328 inch in diameter.
- the flexible member 20 is fabricated from rubber, a rubberlike composite or other elastic, resilient and/or flexible material.
- the flexible member 20 preferably defines a hole 52 in a central portion for receiving the fastener 30 therethrough.
- the flexible member is generally square. The dimensions are about 3 ⁇ 4 inch thick, and the side lengths are about 31 ⁇ 2 inches by about 31 ⁇ 2 inches.
- the hole 52 defined in the flexible member 20 for receiving the fastener 30 is about 0.328 inch in diameter.
- the upper post mounting bracket 26 is preferably rectangular in a flat, preformed shape before bending it during fabrication into its functional shape.
- the upper post mounting bracket 26 defines a hole 54 in a central portion for receiving the fastener 30 therethrough.
- the upper post mounting bracket 26 also defines a plurality of additional holes 56 on each side of the central portion for receiving the additional fasteners 34 to attach the upper post mounting bracket 26 to the upper post 16 .
- the upper post mounting bracket 26 when formed into a functional shape after a bending operation preferably includes the at least two sidewalls 36 extending upwardly from opposite sides of a floor portion 62 of the upper post mounting bracket 26 for receiving and properly positioning the upper post 16 therebetween.
- the additional holes 56 are defined in each of the sidewalls 36 for receiving the additional fasteners 34 therethrough.
- the upper post mounting bracket 26 is fabricated from steel stock about 3/32 inch thick.
- the floor portion 62 is about 31 ⁇ 2 inches by about 31 ⁇ 2 inches, and the sidewalls 36 extend upwardly about 41 ⁇ 4 inches from the floor portion 62 .
- the shear washer 28 is fabricated from steel stock.
- the shear washer 28 preferably defines a hole 64 in a central portion for receiving the fastener 30 therethrough.
- the shear washer 28 is generally rectangular. The dimensions are about 0.187 inch thick, and the side lengths are about 31 ⁇ 2 inches by about 31 ⁇ 4 inches.
- the hole 64 defined by the shear washer 28 for receiving the fastener 30 is about 0.328 inch in diameter.
- the snow and ice shield 44 is preferably fabricated from a durable material such as plastic.
- the shield 44 has an upper portion 66 having four sides 68 defining an upper channel 70 for receiving one or more of the posts 14 , 16 therethrough.
- the upper channel 70 is preferably dimensioned to snugly receive the four side surfaces 38 of the posts 14 , 16 .
- the upper channel 70 is generally square with side lengths of about 31 ⁇ 2 inches by about 31 ⁇ 2 inches.
- the shield 44 further includes a lower portion 74 having four sides 76 defining a lower channel 78 .
- the four sides 76 of the lower portion 74 flair outwardly from an upper edge 80 to a lower edge 82 thereof such that the dimensions of the lower channel 78 at the upper edge 80 are about 41 ⁇ 2 inches by 41 ⁇ 2 inches, and the dimensions of the lower channel 78 at the lower edge 82 are about 61 ⁇ 4 inches by 61 ⁇ 4 inches.
- the increasing dimensions of the lower channel 78 provide space for accommodating the flex assembly 18 therein and for providing space to permit the upper post 16 to flex relative to the lower post 14 .
- the flex assembly 18 is configured to enable the upper post 16 and the lower post 14 to flex relative to each other to relieve environmental stress on the posts caused by, for example, the accumulation of heavy wet snow or ice thereon. Providing some “give” to the posts 14 , 16 prevents the posts from snapping or otherwise being damaged by the environmental stress.
- the flexible member 20 composed of, for example, a rubberlike composite material, has a resiliency which enables it to temporarily deform its shape to enable the upper post 16 to flex relative to the lower post 14 .
- the flexible member 20 is configured to allow the upper post 16 to be flexed in a frontward/rearward direction relative to the lower post 14 .
- the flexible member 20 is also configured to allow the upper post 16 to be flexed in a sideward direction relative to the lower post 14 .
- FIG. 4C shows the upper post 16 in an non-flexed or straight line orientation relative to the lower post 14 when environmental factors are no longer stressing the posts.
- the fastener 30 of the flex assembly 18 is preferably a shear lag bolt which is designed to break and thereby protect the rest of the flex assembly from being damaged.
- the broken shear lag bolt can then be quickly, inexpensively and easily replaced to restore the flex assembly 18 to working condition.
- the flex assembly 18 can be installed on any new or existing standard wooden mailbox post that is mounted in a concrete base.
- the flex assembly 18 provides the mailbox posts 14 , 16 flexibility to withstand heavy wet snow and ice.
- the flex assembly 18 allows front-to-back and side-to-side flexibility and easy installation.
- the flex assembly 18 requires little to no maintenance.
Landscapes
- Supports Or Holders For Household Use (AREA)
Abstract
A mailbox post assembly includes a lower post having an upper surface, and an upper post having a lower surface. A flexible member is securably interposed between the upper surface of the lower post and lower surface of the upper post. The flexible member is configured to allow the upper post to flex relative to the lower post. Preferably, the flexible member is part of a flex assembly further including a lower post mounting bracket, an upper post mounting bracket, and a shear washer. The flex assembly is preferably covered with a snow and ice shield.
Description
- This invention relates generally to mailbox posts, and more particularly to a flex assembly for a mailbox post and mailbox post assembly incorporating such flex assembly.
- Mailbox posts are often damaged when under structural stress such as from, for example, the accumulation of heavy wet snow or ice on the posts. Damage to posts can also be caused when accidentally struck by objects such as snow plows or when intentionally struck by vandals. Frequent replacement of the entire posts when damaged, including removing and attaching posts to a base, can be burdensome, time consuming, expensive and annoying.
- In view of the foregoing, it is an object of the present invention to provide a flexible mailbox post assembly that overcomes the above-mentioned drawbacks.
- In an aspect of the present invention, a mailbox post assembly includes a lower post having an upper surface, and an upper post having a lower surface. A flexible member is securably interposed between the upper surface of the lower post and lower surface of the upper post. The flexible member is configured to allow the upper post to flex relative to the lower post.
- Preferably, the flexible member is part of a flex assembly further including a lower post mounting bracket, an upper post mounting bracket, and a shear washer. The lower post mounting bracket is seated on the upper surface of the lower post. The flexible member is accommodated on the lower post mounting bracket. An upper post mounting bracket is preferably disposed on the flexible member such that the flexible member is interposed between the lower post mounting bracket and the upper post mounting bracket. The upper post mounting bracket has at least two upwardly extending sidewalls defining holes for securing the sidewalls to the upper post. A shear washer is mounted on the upper post mounting bracket. The flex assembly is preferably covered with a snow and ice shield.
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a flexible mailbox post assembly embodying the present invention. -
FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the mailbox posts and flex assembly of the flexible mailbox post assembly ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 3A is a perspective view of an upper portion of the mailbox post assembly showing the mailbox supports and decking. -
FIG. 3B is a disassembled view of the mailbox supports and decking. -
FIG. 4A is a right side view of the flexible mailbox post assembly in a rearward flexed position. -
FIG. 4B is a front view of the flexible mailbox post assembly in a sideward flexed position. -
FIG. 4C is a left side view of the flexible mailbox post assembly in an non-flexed position. -
FIG. 5A is a side view of a bottom plate mounting bracket of the flexible mailbox post assembly in accordance with the present invention. -
FIG. 5B is a top plan view of the bottom plate mounting bracket. -
FIG. 6A is a top plan view of a flexible member of the flexible mailbox post assembly in accordance with the present invention. -
FIG. 6B is a side view of the flexible member. -
FIG. 7A is a top plan view of a top plate of the flexible mailbox post assembly in a flat, preformed state in accordance with the present invention. -
FIG. 7B is a side view of the top plate with its sides bent into its operational shape. -
FIG. 8A is a top plan view of a washer plate of the flexible mailbox post assembly. -
FIG. 8B is a side view of the washer plate. -
FIG. 9A is a top plan view of a snow and ice shield of the flexible mailbox post assembly in accordance with the present invention. -
FIG. 9B is a side view of the snow and ice shield. - Referring to
FIGS. 1 through 4C , a flexible mailbox post assembly embodying the present invention is indicated generally by thereference number 10. The flexiblemailbox post assembly 10 comprises a base 12 (seeFIGS. 4A through 4C ), alower post 14 mounted to the base, and anupper post 16 flexibly coupled to thelower post 14 via aflex assembly 18. Thebase 12 is preferably made generally of concrete or other solid foundation material. Thelower post 14 and theupper post 16 each preferably include four sides and are made generally of wood, but can be made of plastic or other suitable materials without departing from the scope of the present invention. - The
flex assembly 18 includes aflexible member 20 interposed between thelower post 14 and theupper post 16. Theflexible member 20 is preferably made of rubber, a rubberlike composite or other elastic, resilient and/or flexible material. Preferably, theflexible member 20 is about ¾ inch thick, about 3½ inches wide and about 3½ inches long, but can take other dimensions without departing from the scope of the present invention. Theflexible member 20 defines a hole in a central portion for receiving a fastener therethrough to secure theflexible member 20 to thelower post 14 and theupper post 16. In an exemplary embodiment, the hole is about 0.328 inch in diameter, but can take other practical dimensions. - As best shown in
FIG. 2 , an exemplary embodiment of theflex assembly 18 also includes a lowerpost mounting bracket 22 seated on and secured to anupper surface 24 of thelower post 14. Theflexible member 20 is accommodated on the lowerpost mounting bracket 22. An upperpost mounting bracket 26 for theupper post 16 is disposed on theflexible member 20 such that the flexible member is interposed between the lowerpost mounting bracket 22 and the upperpost mounting bracket 26. Ashear washer 28 is mounted on the upperpost mounting bracket 26. Theupper post 16 is seated on theshear washer 28 disposed within the upperpost mounting bracket 26. Afastener 30 such as a shear lag bolt extends through theupper surface 24 of thelower post 14, the lowerpost mounting bracket 22, theflexible member 20, the upperpost mounting bracket 26, theshear washer 28 and through alower surface 32 of theupper post 16 to secure theflex assembly 18 to thelower post 14 and to theupper post 16. The upperpost mounting bracket 26 is also preferably secured to theupper post 16 byadditional fasteners 34 such as self tapping screws extending through at least twosidewalls 36 of the upper mountingbracket 26 into side surfaces 38 of theupper post 16. - As shown in
FIGS. 3A and 3B , the flexiblemailbox post assembly 10 preferably further includes two side supports 40 each coupled to an opposite side of theupper post 16 relative to each other. Amailbox decking 42 is fixedly seated on the side supports 40. A mailbox of the user's preference can then be mounted on themailbox decking 42. - With reference to
FIGS. 1 and 2 , the flexiblemailbox post assembly 10 preferably further includes a snow andice shield 44 configured as a sleeve to slide along theupper post 14 and thelower post 16 into position over theflex assembly 18 to cover and thereby protect the flex assembly from snow, ice and other causes of possible damage otherwise resulting from exposure. - The components of the
flex assembly 18 in the exemplary embodiment will now be explained in greater detail. With reference toFIGS. 5A and 5B , the lowerpost mounting bracket 22 is preferably rectangular in a flat, preformed shape before bending it during fabrication into its functional shape. The lowerpost mounting bracket 22 defines ahole 46 in a central portion for receiving thefastener 30 therethrough. The lowerpost mounting bracket 22 preferably includes at least twosidewalls 48 extending upwardly from opposite sides of the lowerpost mounting bracket 22 for receiving and properly positioning theflexible member 20 therebetween. In an exemplary embodiment, the lowerpost mounting bracket 22 is fabricated from steel stock, and is about 3/32 inch thick, and the side lengths are about 4 inches by about 3½ inches in a flat, preformed state. Upon forming the sidewalls in a bending operation, the lowerpost mounting bracket 22 is generally square and has side lengths of about 3½ inches by about 3½ inches. Thesidewalls 48 extend upwardly about ¼ inch from afloor portion 50. Thehole 46 defined in the lowerpost mounting bracket 22 for receiving thefastener 30 is about 0.328 inch in diameter. - With reference to
FIGS. 6A and 6B , theflexible member 20 is fabricated from rubber, a rubberlike composite or other elastic, resilient and/or flexible material. Theflexible member 20 preferably defines ahole 52 in a central portion for receiving thefastener 30 therethrough. In an exemplary embodiment, the flexible member is generally square. The dimensions are about ¾ inch thick, and the side lengths are about 3½ inches by about 3½ inches. Thehole 52 defined in theflexible member 20 for receiving thefastener 30 is about 0.328 inch in diameter. - With reference to
FIGS. 7A and 7B , the upperpost mounting bracket 26 is preferably rectangular in a flat, preformed shape before bending it during fabrication into its functional shape. The upperpost mounting bracket 26 defines ahole 54 in a central portion for receiving thefastener 30 therethrough. The upperpost mounting bracket 26 also defines a plurality ofadditional holes 56 on each side of the central portion for receiving theadditional fasteners 34 to attach the upperpost mounting bracket 26 to theupper post 16. As shown inFIG. 7B , the upperpost mounting bracket 26 when formed into a functional shape after a bending operation preferably includes the at least twosidewalls 36 extending upwardly from opposite sides of afloor portion 62 of the upperpost mounting bracket 26 for receiving and properly positioning theupper post 16 therebetween. Theadditional holes 56 are defined in each of thesidewalls 36 for receiving theadditional fasteners 34 therethrough. In an exemplary embodiment, the upperpost mounting bracket 26 is fabricated from steel stock about 3/32 inch thick. Thefloor portion 62 is about 3½ inches by about 3½ inches, and thesidewalls 36 extend upwardly about 4¼ inches from thefloor portion 62. - With reference to
FIGS. 8A and 8B , theshear washer 28 is fabricated from steel stock. Theshear washer 28 preferably defines ahole 64 in a central portion for receiving thefastener 30 therethrough. In an exemplary embodiment, theshear washer 28 is generally rectangular. The dimensions are about 0.187 inch thick, and the side lengths are about 3½ inches by about 3¼ inches. Thehole 64 defined by theshear washer 28 for receiving thefastener 30 is about 0.328 inch in diameter. - Turning now to
FIGS. 9A and 9B , the snow andice shield 44 is preferably fabricated from a durable material such as plastic. Theshield 44 has anupper portion 66 having foursides 68 defining anupper channel 70 for receiving one or more of theposts upper channel 70 is preferably dimensioned to snugly receive the fourside surfaces 38 of theposts upper channel 70 is generally square with side lengths of about 3½ inches by about 3½ inches. Theshield 44 further includes alower portion 74 having foursides 76 defining alower channel 78. The foursides 76 of thelower portion 74 flair outwardly from anupper edge 80 to alower edge 82 thereof such that the dimensions of thelower channel 78 at theupper edge 80 are about 4½ inches by 4½ inches, and the dimensions of thelower channel 78 at thelower edge 82 are about 6¼ inches by 6¼ inches. The increasing dimensions of thelower channel 78 provide space for accommodating theflex assembly 18 therein and for providing space to permit theupper post 16 to flex relative to thelower post 14. - As shown in
FIGS. 4A through 4C , theflex assembly 18 is configured to enable theupper post 16 and thelower post 14 to flex relative to each other to relieve environmental stress on the posts caused by, for example, the accumulation of heavy wet snow or ice thereon. Providing some “give” to theposts flexible member 20 composed of, for example, a rubberlike composite material, has a resiliency which enables it to temporarily deform its shape to enable theupper post 16 to flex relative to thelower post 14. As shown inFIG. 4A , theflexible member 20 is configured to allow theupper post 16 to be flexed in a frontward/rearward direction relative to thelower post 14. As shown inFIG. 4B , theflexible member 20 is also configured to allow theupper post 16 to be flexed in a sideward direction relative to thelower post 14.FIG. 4C shows theupper post 16 in an non-flexed or straight line orientation relative to thelower post 14 when environmental factors are no longer stressing the posts. - In an extreme flexing situation, the
fastener 30 of theflex assembly 18 is preferably a shear lag bolt which is designed to break and thereby protect the rest of the flex assembly from being damaged. The broken shear lag bolt can then be quickly, inexpensively and easily replaced to restore theflex assembly 18 to working condition. - In sum, the
flex assembly 18 can be installed on any new or existing standard wooden mailbox post that is mounted in a concrete base. Theflex assembly 18 provides the mailbox posts 14, 16 flexibility to withstand heavy wet snow and ice. Theflex assembly 18 allows front-to-back and side-to-side flexibility and easy installation. Theflex assembly 18 requires little to no maintenance. - As will be recognized by those of ordinary skill in the pertinent art, numerous modifications and substitutions can be made to the above-described embodiment of the present invention without departing from the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the preceding portion of this specification is to be taken in an illustrative, as opposed to a limiting sense.
Claims (21)
1. A mailbox post assembly comprising:
a lower post having an upper surface;
an upper post having a lower surface; and
a flexible member securably interposed between the upper surface of the lower post and lower surface of the upper post, the flexible member being configured to allow the upper post to flex relative to the lower post.
2. A mailbox post assembly as defined in claim 1 , further comprising a base, and wherein the lower post is configured to be mounted to the base.
3. A mailbox post assembly as defined in claim 2 , wherein the base is made generally of concrete.
4. A mailbox post assembly as defined in claim 1 , wherein the lower post and the upper post each are made generally of wood.
5. A mailbox post assembly as defined in claim 1 , wherein the lower post and the upper post each include four sides.
6. A mailbox post assembly as defined in claim 1 , wherein the flexible member is made of an elastic material.
7. A mailbox post assembly as defined in claim 1 , wherein the flexible member is made of a rubberlike material.
8. A mailbox post assembly as defined in claim 1 , wherein the flexible member is made of a resilient material.
9. A mailbox post assembly as defined in claim 1 , wherein the flexible member is securably interposed by means of a fastener, the fastener extending through the upper surface of the lower post, through the flexible member, and through the lower surface of the upper post.
10. A mailbox post assembly as defined in claim 9 , wherein the fastener is a shear lag bolt.
11. A mailbox post assembly as defined in claim 1 , wherein the flexible member is part of a flex assembly, the flex assembly further including:
a lower post mounting bracket seated on the upper surface of the lower post;
the flexible member being accommodated on the lower post mounting bracket;
an upper post mounting bracket disposed on the flexible member such that the flexible member is interposed between the lower post mounting bracket and the upper post mounting bracket, the upper post mounting bracket having at least two upwardly extending sidewalls defining holes for securing the sidewalls to the upper post; and
a shear washer mounted on the upper post mounting bracket.
12. A mailbox post assembly as defined in claim 11 , wherein the flex member is secured ably interposed by means of a fastener, the fastener extending through the upper surface of the lower post, through the lower post mounting bracket, through the flexible member, through the upper post mounting bracket, through the shear washer, and through the lower surface of the upper post.
13. A mailbox post assembly as defined in claim 12 , wherein the fastener is a shear lag bolt.
14. A mailbox post assembly as defined in claim 1 , wherein the flexible member is about ¾ inch thick, about 3½ inches wide and about 3½ inches long.
15. A mailbox post assembly as defined in claim 11 , wherein the lower post mounting bracket includes a floor portion and two sidewalls disposed on opposite sides of the floor plate relative to each other, the two sidewalls extending upwardly from the floor portion.
16. A mailbox post assembly as defined in claim 15 , wherein the lower post mounting bracket is about 3/32 inch thick, the floor portion is about 3½ inches by about 3½ inches, and the two sidewalls extend upwardly about ¼ inch from the floor portion.
17. A mailbox post assembly as defined in claim 11 , wherein the upper post mounting bracket includes a floor portion and two sidewalls disposed on opposite sides of the floor plate relative to each other, the two sidewalls extending upwardly from the floor portion.
18. A mailbox post assembly as defined in claim 17 , wherein the upper post mounting bracket is about 3/32 inch thick, the floor portion is about 3½ inches by about 3½ inches, and the two sidewalls extend upwardly about 4¼ inches from the floor portion.
19. A mailbox post assembly as defined in claim 11 , wherein the shear washer is generally rectangular.
20. A mailbox post assembly as defined in claim 19 , wherein the shear washer is about 0.187 inch thick, and has side lengths of about 3¼ inches by about 3½ inches.
21. A mailbox post assembly as defined in claim 1 , further comprising a shield defining a channel for receiving one or more of the upper post and the lower post, the shield being configured for covering the flexible member.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/405,364 US20100237143A1 (en) | 2009-03-17 | 2009-03-17 | Flexible mailbox post assembly |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/405,364 US20100237143A1 (en) | 2009-03-17 | 2009-03-17 | Flexible mailbox post assembly |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20100237143A1 true US20100237143A1 (en) | 2010-09-23 |
Family
ID=42736647
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/405,364 Abandoned US20100237143A1 (en) | 2009-03-17 | 2009-03-17 | Flexible mailbox post assembly |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20100237143A1 (en) |
Cited By (9)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20140021311A1 (en) * | 2011-07-25 | 2014-01-23 | Arthur W. Lenz, Jr. | Flexible mailbox support with detachable swing arm and replacable outer sleeve |
US9567982B1 (en) | 2016-04-21 | 2017-02-14 | Laufer Wind Group Llc | Ice shield for tower-mounted equipment |
US9823690B2 (en) * | 2015-09-11 | 2017-11-21 | Civiq Smartscapes, Llc | Techniques and apparatus for securing a structure to a support |
US9924821B1 (en) * | 2017-06-20 | 2018-03-27 | The Spectrum Services Company Inc. | Flexible mailbox support |
US10051097B2 (en) | 2015-10-15 | 2018-08-14 | Civiq Smartscapes, Llc | Techniques and apparatus for controlling access to components of a personal communication structure (PCS) |
US10127781B2 (en) | 2015-11-16 | 2018-11-13 | Civiq Smartscapes, Llc | Systems and techniques for vandalism detection in a personal communication structure (PCS) |
US10270918B2 (en) | 2015-10-15 | 2019-04-23 | Civiq Smartscapes, Llc | Method and apparatus for power and temperature control of compartments within a personal communication structure (PCS) |
US10605290B1 (en) * | 2015-07-22 | 2020-03-31 | Robert M. Roskwitalski | Connector assembly |
US20220279952A1 (en) * | 2021-03-08 | 2022-09-08 | Thomas L. O'Brien | Adjustable mailbox post joint |
Citations (30)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4498621A (en) * | 1984-03-02 | 1985-02-12 | Diamond Jeffrey S | Combined mailbox and supporting post |
US4792088A (en) * | 1988-02-18 | 1988-12-20 | Raymond Bonnell | Indestructible mailbox |
US4926592A (en) * | 1989-02-10 | 1990-05-22 | Unistrut International Corp. | Breakaway sign post coupling |
US5029783A (en) * | 1990-10-23 | 1991-07-09 | Aroldo Alvarez | Flexible mailbox stand |
US5031828A (en) * | 1985-08-16 | 1991-07-16 | Fischer Glenn N | Damage-resistant mailbox |
US5042716A (en) * | 1989-08-28 | 1991-08-27 | Robbins Industries, Inc. | Pivotable mailbox and post assembly |
US5207377A (en) * | 1991-08-26 | 1993-05-04 | Brecht Frederick R | Deflectable mailbox |
US5307598A (en) * | 1992-03-24 | 1994-05-03 | West Ronald R | Post system |
US5458428A (en) * | 1992-03-24 | 1995-10-17 | West; Ronald R. | Cantilever mounting system |
US5524858A (en) * | 1995-06-13 | 1996-06-11 | Friend; Thomas A. | Support arrangement |
US5699989A (en) * | 1996-05-23 | 1997-12-23 | Guthrie; James R. | Mailbox mounting device which returns to its original position after side impact |
US5713514A (en) * | 1996-07-25 | 1998-02-03 | Eck; Wayne | Mailbox stand |
US6223982B1 (en) * | 1999-03-05 | 2001-05-01 | Tristram C. Dunn | Impact resistant mailbox support |
US6267529B1 (en) * | 1996-10-04 | 2001-07-31 | Rondo Building Services Pty. Ltd. | Flexible traffic post |
US6308927B1 (en) * | 1999-05-11 | 2001-10-30 | Lawrence E. Leahy | Breakaway sign post connector |
US6328047B1 (en) * | 2000-07-19 | 2001-12-11 | Chorng-Cheng Lee | Position adjustment member of a sunshade |
US6401658B1 (en) * | 2000-08-25 | 2002-06-11 | W. Bradley Teets | Height adjustment bird feeder apparatus |
US20040228677A1 (en) * | 2003-01-31 | 2004-11-18 | Joseph Henriques | Adaptor for a mailbox post |
US20050005540A1 (en) * | 2003-07-08 | 2005-01-13 | Nesbitt Daniel Frederick | Mailbox post protector |
US6959902B2 (en) * | 2001-11-02 | 2005-11-01 | Leahy Lawrence E | Breakaway signpost connector |
US7032811B1 (en) * | 2004-01-16 | 2006-04-25 | Kenneth Paulic | Rotatable mailbox with flexible support |
US7172163B1 (en) * | 2004-09-29 | 2007-02-06 | Johnson Dan F | Mailbox holder |
US7270138B2 (en) * | 2002-10-22 | 2007-09-18 | Hsueh-Hu Liao | Joint mechanism |
US20070245645A1 (en) * | 2003-07-08 | 2007-10-25 | Nesbitt Daniel F | Mailbox post protector |
US7434778B2 (en) * | 2001-11-02 | 2008-10-14 | Xcessories Squared | Breakaway signpost connector |
US7448531B1 (en) * | 2005-05-26 | 2008-11-11 | David Joseph Bolles | Theft-resistant mailbox with secure mounting bracket and method of construction thereof |
US7559457B2 (en) * | 2006-09-18 | 2009-07-14 | Michael Webber | Mailbox arrangement for withdrawn impacts from snow, slush, ice and water thrown from a plowblade |
US20090250509A1 (en) * | 2008-04-02 | 2009-10-08 | David William Biddiscombe | Swing Away Mailbox Post |
US7794123B2 (en) * | 2006-07-17 | 2010-09-14 | Newbill Anthony J | Yieldable support for a mailbox |
US7832695B2 (en) * | 2006-03-28 | 2010-11-16 | Flexpost, Inc. | Bendable post |
-
2009
- 2009-03-17 US US12/405,364 patent/US20100237143A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (32)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4498621A (en) * | 1984-03-02 | 1985-02-12 | Diamond Jeffrey S | Combined mailbox and supporting post |
US5031828A (en) * | 1985-08-16 | 1991-07-16 | Fischer Glenn N | Damage-resistant mailbox |
US4792088A (en) * | 1988-02-18 | 1988-12-20 | Raymond Bonnell | Indestructible mailbox |
US4926592A (en) * | 1989-02-10 | 1990-05-22 | Unistrut International Corp. | Breakaway sign post coupling |
US5042716A (en) * | 1989-08-28 | 1991-08-27 | Robbins Industries, Inc. | Pivotable mailbox and post assembly |
US5029783A (en) * | 1990-10-23 | 1991-07-09 | Aroldo Alvarez | Flexible mailbox stand |
US5207377A (en) * | 1991-08-26 | 1993-05-04 | Brecht Frederick R | Deflectable mailbox |
US5458428A (en) * | 1992-03-24 | 1995-10-17 | West; Ronald R. | Cantilever mounting system |
US5307598A (en) * | 1992-03-24 | 1994-05-03 | West Ronald R | Post system |
US5524858A (en) * | 1995-06-13 | 1996-06-11 | Friend; Thomas A. | Support arrangement |
US5699989A (en) * | 1996-05-23 | 1997-12-23 | Guthrie; James R. | Mailbox mounting device which returns to its original position after side impact |
US5713514A (en) * | 1996-07-25 | 1998-02-03 | Eck; Wayne | Mailbox stand |
US6267529B1 (en) * | 1996-10-04 | 2001-07-31 | Rondo Building Services Pty. Ltd. | Flexible traffic post |
US6223982B1 (en) * | 1999-03-05 | 2001-05-01 | Tristram C. Dunn | Impact resistant mailbox support |
US6308927B1 (en) * | 1999-05-11 | 2001-10-30 | Lawrence E. Leahy | Breakaway sign post connector |
US6328047B1 (en) * | 2000-07-19 | 2001-12-11 | Chorng-Cheng Lee | Position adjustment member of a sunshade |
US6401658B1 (en) * | 2000-08-25 | 2002-06-11 | W. Bradley Teets | Height adjustment bird feeder apparatus |
US6959902B2 (en) * | 2001-11-02 | 2005-11-01 | Leahy Lawrence E | Breakaway signpost connector |
US7434778B2 (en) * | 2001-11-02 | 2008-10-14 | Xcessories Squared | Breakaway signpost connector |
US7270138B2 (en) * | 2002-10-22 | 2007-09-18 | Hsueh-Hu Liao | Joint mechanism |
US20040228677A1 (en) * | 2003-01-31 | 2004-11-18 | Joseph Henriques | Adaptor for a mailbox post |
US7108445B2 (en) * | 2003-01-31 | 2006-09-19 | Joseph Henriques, Jr. | Adaptor for a mailbox post |
US20070245645A1 (en) * | 2003-07-08 | 2007-10-25 | Nesbitt Daniel F | Mailbox post protector |
US20050005540A1 (en) * | 2003-07-08 | 2005-01-13 | Nesbitt Daniel Frederick | Mailbox post protector |
US7032811B1 (en) * | 2004-01-16 | 2006-04-25 | Kenneth Paulic | Rotatable mailbox with flexible support |
US7172163B1 (en) * | 2004-09-29 | 2007-02-06 | Johnson Dan F | Mailbox holder |
US7448531B1 (en) * | 2005-05-26 | 2008-11-11 | David Joseph Bolles | Theft-resistant mailbox with secure mounting bracket and method of construction thereof |
US7832695B2 (en) * | 2006-03-28 | 2010-11-16 | Flexpost, Inc. | Bendable post |
US7794123B2 (en) * | 2006-07-17 | 2010-09-14 | Newbill Anthony J | Yieldable support for a mailbox |
US7559457B2 (en) * | 2006-09-18 | 2009-07-14 | Michael Webber | Mailbox arrangement for withdrawn impacts from snow, slush, ice and water thrown from a plowblade |
US20090250509A1 (en) * | 2008-04-02 | 2009-10-08 | David William Biddiscombe | Swing Away Mailbox Post |
US7784748B2 (en) * | 2008-04-02 | 2010-08-31 | David William Biddiscombe | Swing away mailbox post |
Cited By (12)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20140021311A1 (en) * | 2011-07-25 | 2014-01-23 | Arthur W. Lenz, Jr. | Flexible mailbox support with detachable swing arm and replacable outer sleeve |
US9433313B2 (en) * | 2011-07-25 | 2016-09-06 | Arthur W. Lenz, Jr. | Flexible mailbox support with detachable swing arm and replacable outer sleeve |
US10605290B1 (en) * | 2015-07-22 | 2020-03-31 | Robert M. Roskwitalski | Connector assembly |
US9823690B2 (en) * | 2015-09-11 | 2017-11-21 | Civiq Smartscapes, Llc | Techniques and apparatus for securing a structure to a support |
US10051097B2 (en) | 2015-10-15 | 2018-08-14 | Civiq Smartscapes, Llc | Techniques and apparatus for controlling access to components of a personal communication structure (PCS) |
US10270918B2 (en) | 2015-10-15 | 2019-04-23 | Civiq Smartscapes, Llc | Method and apparatus for power and temperature control of compartments within a personal communication structure (PCS) |
US10127781B2 (en) | 2015-11-16 | 2018-11-13 | Civiq Smartscapes, Llc | Systems and techniques for vandalism detection in a personal communication structure (PCS) |
US9567982B1 (en) | 2016-04-21 | 2017-02-14 | Laufer Wind Group Llc | Ice shield for tower-mounted equipment |
US9924821B1 (en) * | 2017-06-20 | 2018-03-27 | The Spectrum Services Company Inc. | Flexible mailbox support |
US10098490B1 (en) | 2017-06-20 | 2018-10-16 | The Spectrum Services Company Inc. | Flexible mailbox support |
US20220279952A1 (en) * | 2021-03-08 | 2022-09-08 | Thomas L. O'Brien | Adjustable mailbox post joint |
US11510516B2 (en) * | 2021-03-08 | 2022-11-29 | Thomas L. O'Brien | Adjustable mailbox post joint |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US20100237143A1 (en) | Flexible mailbox post assembly | |
US10961719B2 (en) | Decking clip | |
US9084458B2 (en) | Walking aid including a bendable puck coupled between a foot and handle | |
KR101769884B1 (en) | A Deckboard Installing Device | |
EP4134599A1 (en) | Device and method for fixing a support structure for a solar panel to a corrugated roof | |
US20130291471A1 (en) | Wooden deck fastening device | |
US5460326A (en) | Roadside mail box protector | |
US20110271611A1 (en) | Universal fixing bracket for photovoltaic panels | |
SE465534B (en) | MANAGED FESTIVALS TO FIX A FOUNDATION ON A SUBSTRATE | |
US7108445B2 (en) | Adaptor for a mailbox post | |
US10934722B2 (en) | Support system for raised flooring and flooring obtained by this support system | |
EP2529062A2 (en) | Synthetic floor tile having partially compliant support structure | |
US20190136546A1 (en) | Decking clip | |
KR101784932B1 (en) | Connective structure of natural wooddeck | |
US9283469B2 (en) | Impact absorbing dasherboard | |
US7185803B1 (en) | Mailbox mounting assembly | |
US20080169392A1 (en) | Bracket for mounting a utility meter transponder | |
US20140041269A1 (en) | Sign guard | |
KR20150116505A (en) | Wooden deck structures | |
US8328150B2 (en) | Mounting plate and cover assembly for electrical devices | |
KR102116866B1 (en) | Grating for installation of catcher | |
US7954696B2 (en) | Survivable mailbox | |
KR102561997B1 (en) | Deck board including clip | |
KR20120051207A (en) | Deck fastener and fixed structure of deck | |
KR101378077B1 (en) | Connecting Clip for Wood Deck |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |