US20230046879A1 - Outdoor structure design and components - Google Patents
Outdoor structure design and components Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20230046879A1 US20230046879A1 US17/885,112 US202217885112A US2023046879A1 US 20230046879 A1 US20230046879 A1 US 20230046879A1 US 202217885112 A US202217885112 A US 202217885112A US 2023046879 A1 US2023046879 A1 US 2023046879A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- support
- panel
- outdoor structure
- slot
- rod
- 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.)
- Pending
Links
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 claims description 8
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 description 9
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 description 9
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 description 9
- 125000006850 spacer group Chemical group 0.000 description 9
- 230000003993 interaction Effects 0.000 description 6
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000006978 adaptation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229910052782 aluminium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N aluminium Chemical compound [Al] XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000002131 composite material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000002023 wood Substances 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
- E04B1/38—Connections for building structures in general
- E04B1/388—Separate connecting elements
-
- E04B1/40—
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
- E04B1/38—Connections for building structures in general
- E04B1/58—Connections for building structures in general of bar-shaped building elements
- E04B1/5825—Connections for building structures in general of bar-shaped building elements with a closed cross-section
- E04B1/5831—Connections for building structures in general of bar-shaped building elements with a closed cross-section of substantially rectangular form
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
- E04F10/00—Sunshades, e.g. Florentine blinds or jalousies; Outside screens; Awnings or baldachins
- E04F10/08—Sunshades, e.g. Florentine blinds or jalousies; Outside screens; Awnings or baldachins of a plurality of similar rigid parts, e.g. slabs, lamellae
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
- E04B1/38—Connections for building structures in general
- E04B1/58—Connections for building structures in general of bar-shaped building elements
- E04B2001/5893—Puzzle type connections
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
- E04F10/00—Sunshades, e.g. Florentine blinds or jalousies; Outside screens; Awnings or baldachins
Definitions
- the disclosure relates generally to outdoor structures outdoor structure components.
- Various outdoor structures can include a number of posts supporting one or more beams and a shade structure or roof on the top of the outdoor structure.
- an outdoor structure in one aspect, includes a front beam; a back beam opposite the front beam; a first side beam; a second side beam opposite the first side beam; a plurality of posts, each post coupled to at least one of the front beam, the back beam, the first side beam, and the second side beam; and a panel support coupled to at least one of the plurality of posts.
- an outdoor structure in another aspect, includes a front beam; a back beam opposite the front beam; a first side beam; a second side beam opposite the first side beam; a plurality of posts, each post coupled to at least one of the front beam, the back beam, the first side beam, and the second side beam; and a rod support coupled to at least one of the plurality of posts.
- FIG. 1 A depicts an outdoor structure, in accordance with aspects disclosed herein;
- FIGS. 1 B- 1 E depict a panel support, bolts 184 , locking pieces, and a portion of a post having an external slot, in accordance with aspects disclosed herein;
- FIG. 1 F depicts an outdoor structure with the panel support of FIGS. 1 B- 1 E coupled to a post, in accordance with aspects disclosed herein;
- FIG. 2 A depicts an outdoor structure with a panel support coupled to a post, and a panel for coupling to the outdoor structure, in accordance with aspects disclosed herein;
- FIG. 2 B depicts the outdoor structure of FIG. 2 A with the panel coupled between two posts via one or more panel supports and two support covers coupled to the panel, in accordance with aspects disclosed herein;
- FIG. 2 C depicts a close up view of a portion of the outdoor structure and panel of FIG. 2 B ; in accordance with aspects disclosed herein;
- FIG. 2 D depicts a close up view of a portion of the outdoor structure and panel of FIG. 2 C with the support cover positioned over and/or coupled to the panel support; in accordance with aspects disclosed herein;
- FIG. 2 E depicts the outdoor structure and panel of FIG. 2 B with the support covers positioned over and/or coupled to the respective panel supports; in accordance with aspects disclosed herein;
- FIG. 3 A depicts an outdoor structure with a panel support coupled to a post, and a panel for coupling to the outdoor structure, in accordance with aspects disclosed herein;
- FIG. 3 B depicts the outdoor structure of FIG. 3 A with the panel coupled to one post via a panel support and two support covers coupled to the panel, in accordance with aspects disclosed herein;
- FIG. 3 C depicts a close up view of a portion of the outdoor structure and panel of FIG. 3 B ; in accordance with aspects disclosed herein;
- FIG. 3 D depicts the outdoor structure of FIG. 3 A with the panel coupled to two posts via panel supports and two support covers coupled to the panel, in accordance with aspects disclosed herein;
- FIG. 3 E depicts a close up view of a portion of the outdoor structure and panel of FIG. 3 C with the support cover positioned over and/or coupled to the panel support; in accordance with aspects disclosed herein;
- FIG. 3 F depicts the outdoor structure and panel of FIG. 2 D with the support covers positioned over and/or coupled to the respective panel supports; in accordance with aspects disclosed herein;
- FIG. 4 A depicts an outdoor structure with a panel support coupled to a post, and a panel for coupling to the outdoor structure, in accordance with aspects disclosed herein;
- FIG. 4 B depicts a close up view of a portion of the panel of FIG. 4 A coupled to a post of the outdoor structure of FIG. 4 A , in accordance with aspects disclosed herein;
- FIG. 4 C depicts a close up view of a portion of the outdoor structure and panel of FIG. 4 B with a support cover positioned over and/or coupled to the panel support; in accordance with aspects disclosed herein;
- FIG. 4 D depicts the outdoor structure and panel of FIG. 4 A with the support covers positioned over and/or coupled to the respective panel supports; in accordance with aspects disclosed herein;
- FIGS. 5 A and 5 B depict a portion of an outdoor structure and a rod support for coupling to the outdoor structure, two locking pieces, and a spacer, in accordance with aspects disclosed herein;
- FIG. 5 C depicts the rod support of FIGS. 5 A and 5 B positioned on a post of the outdoor structure; in accordance with aspects disclosed herein;
- FIG. 5 D depicts the rod support of FIG. 5 C being secured to the post with a tightening tool, in accordance with aspects disclosed herein;
- FIG. 5 E depicts the rod support of FIG. 5 D secured to the post, in accordance with aspects disclosed herein;
- FIG. 6 A depicts an outdoor structure with a rod holder coupled to a post and a rod for coupling to the outdoor structure, in accordance with aspects disclosed herein;
- FIG. 6 B depicts the outdoor structure of FIG. 6 A with the rod coupled between two posts, in accordance with aspects disclosed herein;
- FIG. 6 C depicts the rod of FIG. 6 A coupled to one post via a rod holder, with a spacer positioned above the rod holder, in accordance with aspects disclosed herein;
- FIG. 6 D depicts the rod of FIG. 6 C with a support cover positioned over the rod holder, in accordance with aspects disclosed herein;
- FIG. 6 E depicts the outdoor structure and rod of FIG. 6 A with the rod coupled between two posts and a support cover positioned over a rod holder, in accordance with aspects hereof;
- FIGS. 7 A and 7 B depict a panel support and a support cover coupled to the panel support, in accordance with aspects hereof;
- FIG. 8 A depicts a top portion of a post and a corbel for coupling to the post, in accordance with aspects hereof;
- FIGS. 8 B and 8 C depict the corbel coupled to the top portion of the post, in accordance with aspects hereof;
- FIG. 8 D depicts the corbel coupled to the top portion of the post of FIGS. 8 B and 8 C with a cover for coupling to at least the post, in accordance with aspects hereof;
- FIGS. 8 E and 8 F depict the cover of FIG. 8 D secured or coupled to at least the post, in accordance with aspects hereof.
- FIG. 1 A shows an example outdoor structure 102 in accordance with some embodiments.
- Outdoor structure 102 may be a pergola or cabana, for example, that allows for the enjoyment of an outdoor space.
- Outdoor structure 102 may be manufactured out of metal (e.g., aluminum), wood, plastic, plastic composite, or any other suitable material or combination of materials, in certain aspects.
- the outdoor structure 102 can include a plurality of posts 104 and a plurality of beams 106 , in various aspects.
- the outdoor structure 102 can include a front beam 106 , a back beam 106 opposite the front beam 106 , a first side beam 106 , and a second side beam 106 opposite the first side beam 106 .
- the plurality of posts 104 can be coupled to one or more of the front beam 106 , the back beam 106 , the first side beam 106 , and the second side beam 106 .
- a first post 104 can be coupled to the front and first side beams 106 .
- a second post 104 can be coupled to the back and first side beams 106 .
- a third post 105 can be coupled to the back and second side beams 106 .
- a fourth post 104 can be coupled to the front and second side beams 106 .
- Each of the plurality of posts 104 can include a respective base portion 105 .
- a cover 119 may connect each post 104 to one or more of the beams 106 .
- each post can include an external slot 180 .
- the external slot 180 may be covered by slot plates 181 and 183 , and/or may allow for the attachment of a panel support 182 to hold one or more panels, as depicted in FIGS. 1 B- 1 E .
- FIG. 1 B illustrates, in part, a panel support 182 that includes a plurality of openings 186 , each opening 186 configured to accept a bolt 184 .
- Panel support 182 further includes a plurality of windows 187 that allow for at least partial insertion of a beam of a panel.
- panel support 182 also includes a plurality of first support levels 188 and corresponding second support levels 189 .
- Each first support level 188 includes a lip 197
- each second support level 189 includes a lip 198 .
- Each first support level 188 and corresponding second support level 189 allow for a beam of a panel to rest thereon, e.g., as depicted in FIG. 2 C discussed below.
- the lips 197 , 198 may secure the panel beams, thereby preventing the beams, and thus the panel, from falling off to a side.
- the first support levels 188 and corresponding second support levels 189 are located at the bottom of a window 187 (e.g., the first support level 188 and corresponding second support level 189 are flush with the bottom of the corresponding window 187 ).
- panel support 182 may include a bottom support level 191 that, in some examples, may be flush with the bottom of a bottom window 193 of the plurality of windows 187 . Bottom support level 191 may allow for a bottom beam of a panel to rest thereon, in aspects.
- bolts 184 may secure panel support 182 to post 104 by engaging with locking pieces 175 , which may be secured within external slot 180 of post 104 .
- each bolt 184 may pass through an opening 186 of panel support 182 and into a receiving cavity of a locking piece 175 .
- the receiving cavity may, for example, include threads configured to receive corresponding threads of bolt 184 , in aspects.
- the locking pieces 175 may be positioned such as to be inserted into external slot 180 .
- the locking pieces 175 may be positioned vertically along external slot 180 , and inserted into external slot 180 .
- a back surface of panel support 182 may engage with a front surface of each of slot plate 181 and slot plate 183 defining slot 180 .
- a tightening tool 197 e.g., a ratchet, screwdriver, etc.
- a front surface of locking piece 175 may engage a back surface of each of slot plate 181 and slot plate 183 , in aspects.
- each locking piece 175 is turned until it is in a horizontal position (e.g., at or near 90 degrees to external slot 180 ).
- the front surface of the locking piece 175 may press up against the back surface of each of slot plate 181 and slot plate 183 , while the back surface of the panel support 182 presses up against the front surface of each of slot plate 181 and slot plate 183 defining slot 180 of the post 104 , which may secure the panel support 182 to a specific vertical position within the slot 180 of the post 104 .
- the locking pieces 175 may engage with an internal lip or surface within the slot 180 that can secure the panel support 182 to a specific vertical position within the slot 180 of the post 104 .
- FIG. 1 F illustrates panel support 182 secured to post 104 of outdoor structure 102 .
- FIG. 2 A illustrates a panel 208 that includes a plurality of beams 213 , and a plurality of support covers 215 that each include openings 217 to allow support cover 215 to slide along the plurality of beams 213 .
- one or more panels 208 may form a wall of outdoor structure 102 .
- a plurality of panels 208 may be stacked between two posts 104 of outdoor structure 102 to at least partially close in a side of outdoor structure 102 .
- panels 208 may be modular such that one or more panels 208 may be placed onto, or removed from, outdoor structure 102 .
- a panel 208 may be placed onto outdoor structure 102 as described herein after outdoor structure 102 is built.
- FIG. 2 B illustrates panel 208 secured to outdoor structure 102 by one or more panel supports 182 .
- the panel 208 is initially and/or removably secured to each of the two posts 104 by a corresponding panel support 182 .
- FIG. 2 C illustrates a closer view of the attachment of panel 208 to post 104 using a panel support 182 .
- the bottom beam 213 a of the plurality of beams 213 rests on bottom support level 191
- each of the remaining plurality of beams 213 rests on a corresponding first support level.
- the top beam 213 b of the plurality of beams 213 rests on the second support level 189 (and the first support level 188 .
- a portion of the plurality of beams 213 can insert into the corresponding window 193 or 187 of the panel support 182 .
- FIG. 2 C illustrates a closer view of the attachment of panel 208 to post 104 using a panel support 182 .
- each of the plurality of beams 213 proceeds through a corresponding opening 217 of support cover 215 .
- a slot plate 251 can be secured over the portion of external slot 180 (e.g., using a snap-fit) above panel support 182
- a second slot plate 253 can be secured over the portion of external slot 180 under panel support 182 .
- the support cover 215 is positioned to cover a panel support, e.g., the panel support 182 depicted in FIG. 2 C .
- a panel support e.g., the panel support 182 depicted in FIG. 2 C .
- support cover 215 may be slid along the beams 213 and over panel support 182 (e.g., snapped onto).
- FIG. 2 E illustrates panel 208 secured to outdoor structure 102 with support cover 215 positioned over and covering the panel support. While not viewable in FIG. 2 E , both ends of the panel 208 may include a support cover 215 that covers a panel support, in aspects.
- support cover 215 can secured to panel support 182 using one or more snap-fits.
- the snap-fit mechanisms may include, but are not limited to, cantilever, torsional, and annular snap-fits.
- panel support 182 may include a plurality of protruding tabs 702 that can be aligned and/or received with corresponding structures or snap-fit areas 710 of support cover 715 .
- each protruding tab 702 may be placed over a corresponding snap-fit area 710 where, when force is applied to support cover 715 in a direction towards panel support 182 , each of the protruding tabs 702 on the panel support 182 “snap” into the corresponding snap-fit area 710 of support cover 715 .
- the close up illustration on the right side also reveals the position of: an opening 186 of the panel support 182 (e.g., for a bolt or other fastener); a window 187 ; and lips 188 and 189 of the panel support 182 . While the close up illustration on the right of FIG.
- FIG. 7 A shows the interaction of the protruding tabs 702 with the support cover 715 in the regions 700 a , 700 b , and 700 c , at one end of the panel support 182 and support cover 715
- protruding tabs 702 on the opposing end of the panel support 182 and support cover 715 may similarly interact.
- the region 700 a may resemble an interaction with a protruding tab 702 of the panel support 182 and the support cover 715 on the opposing end, represented by region 700 j
- the interactions depicted in regions 700 b and 700 c may resemble interactions of the protruding tabs 702 and support cover 715 in the regions 700 h and 700 i , respectively.
- the interactions between the protruding tabs 702 and support cover 715 depicted in regions 700 b and 700 c may resemble interactions of the protruding tabs 702 and support cover 715 in one or more of regions 700 d , 700 e , 700 f , and 700 g.
- FIGS. 3 A- 3 D illustrate a panel 308 that includes a plurality of slats 333 positioned between two beams 331 , and a plurality of support covers 315 that each include openings 319 and a slot 317 to allow support cover 315 to slide along the two beams 331 and the plurality of slats 333 .
- Each of the plurality of slats 333 are inserted into a corresponding slot 321 of at least one beam 331 .
- a portion of the plurality of slats 333 may include one end that is inserted into a slot 321 of one beam 331 (e.g., an upper beam) and another end that is inserted into a slot 321 of another beam 331 (e.g., a lower beam).
- Another portion of the plurality of slats 333 may include one end that is inserted into the slot 321 of one beam, while the other end forms part of a slat support 323 .
- Slat supports 323 may be inserted into a corresponding slot 321 of each of two beams 331 .
- the panel 308 may be coupled to the outdoor structure 102 , e.g., between two posts 104 via panel supports 182 .
- One or more panels 308 may form a wall of outdoor structure 102 .
- a plurality of panels 308 may be stacked between two posts 104 of outdoor structure 102 to at least partially close in a side of outdoor structure 102 .
- panels 308 may be modular such that one or more panels 308 may be placed onto, or removed from, outdoor structure 102 .
- a panel 308 may be placed onto outdoor structure 102 as described herein after outdoor structure 102 is built.
- a panel 308 may be removed from outdoor structure 102 without dismantling outdoor structure 102 .
- FIG. 3 B illustrates panel 308 secured to outdoor structure 102 by a panel support 182 . Although only one panel support 182 is illustrated, panel 308 may be secured to each of two posts 104 by a corresponding panel support 182 .
- FIG. 3 C illustrates a closer view of the attachment of panel 308 to post 104 using a panel support 182 .
- the bottom beam 331 rests on bottom support level 191 and inserts, at least partially, into bottom window 193 .
- the top beam 331 rests on a corresponding first support level (not viewable in this figure) and second support level 189 .
- the beam 331 can be inserted, at least partially, into a corresponding window 187 .
- slat support 323 may be positioned within a gap that is formed between the first support levels 188 and corresponding second support levels 189 of panel support 182 to provide additional integrity to the panel 308 .
- each of the beams 331 proceed through a corresponding opening 319 of support cover 315 . Openings 319 and slot 317 allow support cover 315 to slide along panel 308 .
- FIG. 3 D illustrates panel 308 attached to two posts 104 using, for each post 104 , a panel support 182 (although only one panel support is illustrated based on the view of FIG. 3 D ).
- FIG. 3 E illustrates support cover 315 positioned over and covering a panel support, e.g., the panel support 182 of FIG. 3 D .
- support cover 315 may be slid along panel 308 until it covers and comes into contact with panel support 182 , and is flush with slot plates 181 and 183 .
- a first slot plate 351 is secured over the portion of external slot 180 (e.g., using a snap-fit) above panel support 182
- a second slot plate 353 is secured over the portion of external slot 180 under panel support 182 .
- FIG. 3 F illustrates panel 308 secured to outdoor structure 102 with support cover 315 positioned over and covering a panel support, e.g., panel support 182 of FIG. 3 D .
- FIG. 4 A illustrates a panel 408 that includes a solid slat 433 positioned between two beams 431 , and a plurality of support covers 415 that each include openings 419 and a slot 417 to allow support cover 415 to slide along the two beams 431 and the solid slat 433 .
- the solid slat 433 is inserted into a corresponding slot 421 of each of the two beams 431 .
- solid slat 433 may include one end that is inserted into a slot 421 of one beam 431 and another end that is inserted into a slot 421 of another beam 431 .
- the solid slat 433 can optionally be inserted into the gap between the first and second support levels of a panel support, e.g., the first and second support levels 188 , 189 of panel support 182 , as depicted in FIG. 1 B , for example.
- One or more panels 408 may form a wall of outdoor structure 102 , e.g., by being coupled to one or more posts 104 via respective panel supports 182 .
- a plurality of panels 408 may be stacked between two posts 104 of outdoor structure 102 to at least partially close in a side of outdoor structure 102 .
- panels 408 may be modular such that one or more panels 308 may be installed onto, or removed from, outdoor structure 102 .
- a panel 408 may be installed onto outdoor structure 102 as described herein after outdoor structure 102 is built.
- a panel 408 may be removed from outdoor structure 102 without dismantling outdoor structure 102 .
- FIG. 4 B illustrates a view of the attachment of panel 408 to post 104 using a panel support 182 .
- the bottom beam 431 rests on bottom support level 191 .
- a portion of the bottom beam 431 can be inserted into bottom window 193 .
- the top beam 431 rests on a corresponding first support level (not seen in the view shown in FIG. 4 B ) and second support level 189 of a top window 187 .
- a portion of top beam 431 can be inserted into a corresponding window 187 .
- end 423 of solid slat 433 may be positioned within the gap 199 that is formed between the first support levels and corresponding second support levels 189 of panel support 182 .
- each of the beams 431 proceed through a corresponding opening 419 of support cover 415 . Openings 419 and slot 417 allow support cover 415 to slide along panel 408 .
- FIG. 4 C illustrates support cover 415 positioned over and covering a panel support, e.g., the panel support 182 of FIG. 4 B .
- support cover 415 may be slid along panel 408 until it covers and comes into contact with panel support 182 , and is flush with slot plates 181 and 183 .
- a first slot plate 451 is secured over the portion of external slot 180 (e.g., using a snap-fit) above panel support 182
- a second slot plate 453 is secured over the portion of external slot 180 under panel support 182 .
- FIG. 4 D illustrates panel 408 secured to outdoor structure 102 with support cover 415 positioned over and covering the panel support.
- FIGS. 5 A- 5 E illustrate a rod support 504 that can be attached to post 104 to hold a rod, such as a curtain rod.
- a plurality of bolts 184 may be positioned through corresponding openings 505 of rod support 504 , and further into corresponding cavities of locking pieces 175 .
- Rod support 504 includes a support level 511 that allows for a rod (e.g., rod end) to rest.
- a spacer 506 may be positioned between rod support 504 and beam 106 , to provide a defined space between beam 106 and rod support 504 . The spacer 506 may be held in place due to a friction fit between beam 106 and one or more protrusions 572 of rod support 504 , in certain aspects.
- the locking pieces 175 may be positioned such as to be inserted into external slot 180 of post 104 .
- the locking pieces 175 may be positioned vertically along external slot 180 , and inserted into external slot 180 .
- a back surface of rod support 504 may engage with a front surface of each of slot plate 181 and slot plate 183 defining slot 180 .
- a tightening tool 197 e.g., a ratchet, screw driver, etc.
- a tightening tool 197 may be used to tighten each bolt 184 , which causes the corresponding locking piece 175 to turn.
- a front surface of locking piece 175 may engage a back surface of each of slot plate 181 and slot plate 183 .
- each locking piece 175 is turned until it is in a horizontal position (e.g., at or near 90 degrees to external slot 180 ).
- FIG. 5 E illustrates rod support 504 secured to post 104 , and with spacer 506 positioned between beam 106 and rod support 504 .
- FIG. 6 A illustrates outdoor structure 102 with a rod support 504 secured to a post 104 .
- rod 602 may be supported, on either end, by a support level of rod support 504 , e.g., support level 511 of rod support 504 depicted in FIG. 5 A .
- Rod 602 further includes a plurality of rod holder covers 604 which include an opening allowing them to slide along rod 602 .
- the rod holder covers 604 may be slid, on either end, over rod supports 504 .
- a snap-fit mechanism as described herein secures rod support covers 604 to rod supports 504 .
- FIG. 6 B illustrates rod 602 secured to a rod holder 504 on a post 104 .
- rod 602 is secured at both ends to a post 104 using a rod holder 504 prior to securing the rod support covers 604 .
- no spacer 506 is utilized.
- spacer 506 is positioned between rod support 504 and beam 506 , with the rod 602 in position to be secured by the rod support 504 .
- Spacer 506 can be held in place due to friction with a bottom surface 611 of beam 106 and one or more one or more protrusions 572 of rod support 504 .
- FIGS. 6 D and 6 E illustrate rod 602 secured to post 104 with rod support 504 , as well as rod support cover 604 over and covering rod support 504 . Further, spacer 506 is positioned between rod support 504 and beam 106 .
- a cover 603 is provided to cover the opening of the post 104 .
- FIG. 8 A illustrates a corbel 802 that may be attached to a post 104 .
- Corbel 802 includes a securing element 806 with a receiving slot 808 , and a guiding element 804 that includes a first guiding slot 810 and a second guiding slot 812 .
- post 104 includes an external slot 867 that can be defined by first and second slot plates 865 A, 865 B that extend toward one another from side plates 883 A, 883 B, respectively.
- First and second slot plates 865 A, 865 B correspond to slot plates 181 and 183 as described herein.
- Post 104 further includes first and second shoulders 869 A, 869 B, that also extend toward one another from side plates 883 A, 883 B, respectively.
- first and second slot plates 865 A, 865 B of post 104 are inserted into and through first guiding slot 810 and second guiding slot 812 , respectively, of corbel 802 .
- guiding element 804 of corbel 802 may be positioned between side plates 883 A, 883 B, where first guiding slot 810 and second guiding slot 812 allow for the passage of first and second slot plates 865 A, 865 B, respectively.
- a length of guiding element 804 extends from side plate 883 A to side plate 883 B.
- a length of guiding element 804 is wider than a width of external slot 867 .
- receiving slot 808 of securing element 806 engages with an upper edge, e.g., first and second shoulders 869 A, 869 B, of post 104 .
- FIG. 8 C illustrates securing element 806 secured to post 104 .
- first and second shoulders 869 A, 869 B of post 104 engage with receiving slot 808 of securing element 806 , to complete the securing of corbel 802 to post 104 .
- FIG. 8 D illustrates a cover 119 that can be secured to post 104 using one or more fasteners, such as bolts.
- a bolt may be placed through an opening 893 of cover 119 , and further into a receiving cavity 895 .
- Receiving cavity 895 may include threads configured to receive corresponding threads of the bolt.
- a portion of cover 119 is positioned over a beam, e.g., beam 106 of FIG. 1 A , such that the cover 119 is attached to both the post 104 and the beam 106 .
- FIGS. 8 E and 8 F illustrate cover 119 on post 104 . As illustrated in FIG.
- FIG. 8 F also depicts the cover 119 contacting the post 104 and at least a portion of the corbel 802 , e.g., the securing element 806 .
- An outdoor structure comprising: a front beam; a back beam opposite the front beam; a first side beam; a second side beam opposite the first side beam; a plurality of posts, each post coupled to at least one of the front beam, the back beam, the first side beam, and the second side beam; and a panel support coupled to at least one of the plurality of posts.
- Clause 2 The outdoor structure of clause 1, comprising a panel coupled to the panel support.
- Clause 5 The outdoor structure of clause 4, wherein the panel comprises a plurality of slats coupled to at least one of the plurality of beams.
- Clause 7 The outdoor structure of clause 4, wherein the panel comprises at least one support cover configured to slide along the plurality of beams and over the panel support.
- Clause 8 The outdoor structure of clause 7, wherein the at least one support cover couples to the panel support with at least one snap-fit.
- Clause 9 The outdoor structure of clause 1 wherein: the at least one of the plurality of posts comprises an external slot defined by a first slot plate and a second slot plate; and the panel support is in contact with the first slot plate and the second slot plate.
- Clause 10 The outdoor structure of clause 9, comprising at least one locking piece, wherein the locking piece is configured to rotate within the external slot to couple the panel support to the at least one of the plurality of posts.
- An outdoor structure comprising: a front beam; a back beam opposite the front beam; a first side beam; a second side beam opposite the first side beam; a plurality of posts, each post coupled to at least one of the front beam, the back beam, the first side beam, and the second side beam; and a rod support coupled to at least one of the plurality of posts.
- Clause 12 The outdoor structure of clause 11 comprising a rod coupled to the rod support.
- Clause 13 The outdoor structure of clause 11 wherein: the at least one of the plurality of posts comprises an external slot defined by a first slot plate and a second slot plate; and the rod support is in contact with the first slot plate and the second slot plate.
- Clause 14 The outdoor structure of clause 13 comprising at least one locking piece, wherein the locking piece is configured to rotate within the external slot to couple the rod support to the at least one of the plurality of posts.
- Clause 15 The outdoor structure of clause 11 comprising a spacing element positioned between the rod support and one of the front beam, the back beam, the first side beam, and the second side beam.
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Architecture (AREA)
- Civil Engineering (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Electromagnetism (AREA)
- Load-Bearing And Curtain Walls (AREA)
- Connection Of Plates (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- This application claims priority to U.S. provisional application No. 63/231,855, filed on Aug. 11, 2021, and entitled “OUTDOOR STRUCTURE DESIGN AND COMPONENTS.” The entire contents of the aforementioned application are hereby incorporated by reference.
- The disclosure relates generally to outdoor structures outdoor structure components.
- Various outdoor structures can include a number of posts supporting one or more beams and a shade structure or roof on the top of the outdoor structure.
- In one aspect, an outdoor structure is provided. The outdoor structure includes a front beam; a back beam opposite the front beam; a first side beam; a second side beam opposite the first side beam; a plurality of posts, each post coupled to at least one of the front beam, the back beam, the first side beam, and the second side beam; and a panel support coupled to at least one of the plurality of posts.
- In another aspect, an outdoor structure is provided. The outdoor structure includes a front beam; a back beam opposite the front beam; a first side beam; a second side beam opposite the first side beam; a plurality of posts, each post coupled to at least one of the front beam, the back beam, the first side beam, and the second side beam; and a rod support coupled to at least one of the plurality of posts.
- The features and advantages of the present disclosures will be more fully disclosed in, or rendered obvious by the following detailed descriptions of example embodiments. The detailed descriptions of the example embodiments are to be considered together with the accompanying drawings wherein like numbers refer to like parts and further wherein:
-
FIG. 1A depicts an outdoor structure, in accordance with aspects disclosed herein; -
FIGS. 1B-1E depict a panel support,bolts 184, locking pieces, and a portion of a post having an external slot, in accordance with aspects disclosed herein; -
FIG. 1F depicts an outdoor structure with the panel support ofFIGS. 1B-1E coupled to a post, in accordance with aspects disclosed herein; -
FIG. 2A depicts an outdoor structure with a panel support coupled to a post, and a panel for coupling to the outdoor structure, in accordance with aspects disclosed herein; -
FIG. 2B depicts the outdoor structure ofFIG. 2A with the panel coupled between two posts via one or more panel supports and two support covers coupled to the panel, in accordance with aspects disclosed herein; -
FIG. 2C depicts a close up view of a portion of the outdoor structure and panel ofFIG. 2B ; in accordance with aspects disclosed herein; -
FIG. 2D depicts a close up view of a portion of the outdoor structure and panel ofFIG. 2C with the support cover positioned over and/or coupled to the panel support; in accordance with aspects disclosed herein; -
FIG. 2E depicts the outdoor structure and panel ofFIG. 2B with the support covers positioned over and/or coupled to the respective panel supports; in accordance with aspects disclosed herein; -
FIG. 3A depicts an outdoor structure with a panel support coupled to a post, and a panel for coupling to the outdoor structure, in accordance with aspects disclosed herein; -
FIG. 3B depicts the outdoor structure ofFIG. 3A with the panel coupled to one post via a panel support and two support covers coupled to the panel, in accordance with aspects disclosed herein; -
FIG. 3C depicts a close up view of a portion of the outdoor structure and panel ofFIG. 3B ; in accordance with aspects disclosed herein; -
FIG. 3D depicts the outdoor structure ofFIG. 3A with the panel coupled to two posts via panel supports and two support covers coupled to the panel, in accordance with aspects disclosed herein; -
FIG. 3E depicts a close up view of a portion of the outdoor structure and panel ofFIG. 3C with the support cover positioned over and/or coupled to the panel support; in accordance with aspects disclosed herein; -
FIG. 3F depicts the outdoor structure and panel ofFIG. 2D with the support covers positioned over and/or coupled to the respective panel supports; in accordance with aspects disclosed herein; -
FIG. 4A depicts an outdoor structure with a panel support coupled to a post, and a panel for coupling to the outdoor structure, in accordance with aspects disclosed herein; -
FIG. 4B depicts a close up view of a portion of the panel ofFIG. 4A coupled to a post of the outdoor structure ofFIG. 4A , in accordance with aspects disclosed herein; -
FIG. 4C depicts a close up view of a portion of the outdoor structure and panel ofFIG. 4B with a support cover positioned over and/or coupled to the panel support; in accordance with aspects disclosed herein; -
FIG. 4D depicts the outdoor structure and panel ofFIG. 4A with the support covers positioned over and/or coupled to the respective panel supports; in accordance with aspects disclosed herein; -
FIGS. 5A and 5B depict a portion of an outdoor structure and a rod support for coupling to the outdoor structure, two locking pieces, and a spacer, in accordance with aspects disclosed herein; -
FIG. 5C depicts the rod support ofFIGS. 5A and 5B positioned on a post of the outdoor structure; in accordance with aspects disclosed herein; -
FIG. 5D depicts the rod support ofFIG. 5C being secured to the post with a tightening tool, in accordance with aspects disclosed herein; -
FIG. 5E depicts the rod support ofFIG. 5D secured to the post, in accordance with aspects disclosed herein; -
FIG. 6A depicts an outdoor structure with a rod holder coupled to a post and a rod for coupling to the outdoor structure, in accordance with aspects disclosed herein; -
FIG. 6B depicts the outdoor structure ofFIG. 6A with the rod coupled between two posts, in accordance with aspects disclosed herein; -
FIG. 6C depicts the rod ofFIG. 6A coupled to one post via a rod holder, with a spacer positioned above the rod holder, in accordance with aspects disclosed herein; -
FIG. 6D depicts the rod ofFIG. 6C with a support cover positioned over the rod holder, in accordance with aspects disclosed herein; -
FIG. 6E depicts the outdoor structure and rod ofFIG. 6A with the rod coupled between two posts and a support cover positioned over a rod holder, in accordance with aspects hereof; -
FIGS. 7A and 7B depict a panel support and a support cover coupled to the panel support, in accordance with aspects hereof; -
FIG. 8A depicts a top portion of a post and a corbel for coupling to the post, in accordance with aspects hereof; -
FIGS. 8B and 8C depict the corbel coupled to the top portion of the post, in accordance with aspects hereof; -
FIG. 8D depicts the corbel coupled to the top portion of the post ofFIGS. 8B and 8C with a cover for coupling to at least the post, in accordance with aspects hereof; and -
FIGS. 8E and 8F depict the cover ofFIG. 8D secured or coupled to at least the post, in accordance with aspects hereof. - The description of the preferred embodiments is intended to be read in connection with the accompanying drawings, which are to be considered part of the entire written description of these disclosures. In this description, relative terms such as “horizontal,” “vertical,” “up,” “down,” “top,” “bottom,” as well as derivatives thereof (e.g., “horizontally,” “downwardly,” “upwardly,” etc.) should be construed to refer to the orientation as then described or as shown in the drawing figure under discussion. These relative terms are for convenience of description and normally are not intended to require a particular orientation. Terms including “inwardly” versus “outwardly,” “longitudinal” versus “lateral” and the like are to be interpreted relative to one another or relative to an axis of elongation, or an axis or center of rotation, as appropriate. Terms concerning attachments, coupling, and the like, such as “connected” and “interconnected,” refer to a relationship wherein structures are secured or attached to one another either directly or indirectly through intervening structures, as well as both moveable or rigid attachments or relationships, unless expressly described otherwise, and includes terms such as “directly” coupled, secured, etc. The term “operatively coupled” is such an attachment, coupling, or connection that allows the pertinent structures to operate as intended by virtue of that relationship. Terms concerning communications, such as “commutatively coupled” and “in communication with,” refer to a relationship wherein structures, such as devices, are operable to communicate with each other over one or more wired or wireless communication channels.
- Turning to the drawings,
FIG. 1A shows an exampleoutdoor structure 102 in accordance with some embodiments.Outdoor structure 102 may be a pergola or cabana, for example, that allows for the enjoyment of an outdoor space.Outdoor structure 102 may be manufactured out of metal (e.g., aluminum), wood, plastic, plastic composite, or any other suitable material or combination of materials, in certain aspects. Theoutdoor structure 102 can include a plurality ofposts 104 and a plurality ofbeams 106, in various aspects. For example, as can be seen inFIG. 1A , theoutdoor structure 102 can include afront beam 106, aback beam 106 opposite thefront beam 106, afirst side beam 106, and asecond side beam 106 opposite thefirst side beam 106. In addition, the plurality ofposts 104 can be coupled to one or more of thefront beam 106, theback beam 106, thefirst side beam 106, and thesecond side beam 106. For example, afirst post 104 can be coupled to the front and first side beams 106. Asecond post 104 can be coupled to the back and first side beams 106. Athird post 105 can be coupled to the back and second side beams 106. Further, afourth post 104 can be coupled to the front and second side beams 106. - Each of the plurality of
posts 104 can include arespective base portion 105. In addition, acover 119 may connect eachpost 104 to one or more of thebeams 106. Further, each post can include anexternal slot 180. Theexternal slot 180 may be covered byslot plates panel support 182 to hold one or more panels, as depicted inFIGS. 1B-1E . - For example,
FIG. 1B illustrates, in part, apanel support 182 that includes a plurality ofopenings 186, each opening 186 configured to accept abolt 184.Panel support 182 further includes a plurality ofwindows 187 that allow for at least partial insertion of a beam of a panel. Further,panel support 182 also includes a plurality offirst support levels 188 and correspondingsecond support levels 189. Eachfirst support level 188 includes alip 197, and eachsecond support level 189 includes alip 198. Eachfirst support level 188 and correspondingsecond support level 189 allow for a beam of a panel to rest thereon, e.g., as depicted inFIG. 2C discussed below. In aspects, thelips first support levels 188 and correspondingsecond support levels 189 are located at the bottom of a window 187 (e.g., thefirst support level 188 and correspondingsecond support level 189 are flush with the bottom of the corresponding window 187). Further,panel support 182 may include abottom support level 191 that, in some examples, may be flush with the bottom of abottom window 193 of the plurality ofwindows 187.Bottom support level 191 may allow for a bottom beam of a panel to rest thereon, in aspects. - In certain aspects,
bolts 184 may securepanel support 182 to post 104 by engaging with lockingpieces 175, which may be secured withinexternal slot 180 ofpost 104. For example, as illustrated inFIG. 1C , eachbolt 184 may pass through anopening 186 ofpanel support 182 and into a receiving cavity of alocking piece 175. The receiving cavity may, for example, include threads configured to receive corresponding threads ofbolt 184, in aspects. As illustrated inFIG. 1D , the lockingpieces 175 may be positioned such as to be inserted intoexternal slot 180. For example, the lockingpieces 175 may be positioned vertically alongexternal slot 180, and inserted intoexternal slot 180. As such, a back surface ofpanel support 182 may engage with a front surface of each ofslot plate 181 andslot plate 183 definingslot 180. - Further, and with reference to
FIG. 1E , to securepanel support 182 to post 104, a tightening tool 197 (e.g., a ratchet, screwdriver, etc.) may be used to tighten eachbolt 184, which causes thecorresponding locking piece 175 to turn. When turned, a front surface of lockingpiece 175 may engage a back surface of each ofslot plate 181 andslot plate 183, in aspects. In some examples, each lockingpiece 175 is turned until it is in a horizontal position (e.g., at or near 90 degrees to external slot 180). In one aspect, once thebolt 184 is tightened, the front surface of thelocking piece 175 may press up against the back surface of each ofslot plate 181 andslot plate 183, while the back surface of thepanel support 182 presses up against the front surface of each ofslot plate 181 andslot plate 183 definingslot 180 of thepost 104, which may secure thepanel support 182 to a specific vertical position within theslot 180 of thepost 104. In the same or alternative aspects, the lockingpieces 175 may engage with an internal lip or surface within theslot 180 that can secure thepanel support 182 to a specific vertical position within theslot 180 of thepost 104.FIG. 1F illustratespanel support 182 secured to post 104 ofoutdoor structure 102. -
FIG. 2A illustrates apanel 208 that includes a plurality ofbeams 213, and a plurality of support covers 215 that each includeopenings 217 to allowsupport cover 215 to slide along the plurality ofbeams 213. In one or more aspects, one ormore panels 208 may form a wall ofoutdoor structure 102. For example, a plurality ofpanels 208 may be stacked between twoposts 104 ofoutdoor structure 102 to at least partially close in a side ofoutdoor structure 102. Further,panels 208 may be modular such that one ormore panels 208 may be placed onto, or removed from,outdoor structure 102. For example, apanel 208 may be placed ontooutdoor structure 102 as described herein afteroutdoor structure 102 is built. Similarly, apanel 208 may be removed fromoutdoor structure 102 without dismantlingoutdoor structure 102.FIG. 2B illustratespanel 208 secured tooutdoor structure 102 by one or more panel supports 182. In the aspect depicted in FIG. 2B, thepanel 208 is initially and/or removably secured to each of the twoposts 104 by acorresponding panel support 182. -
FIG. 2C illustrates a closer view of the attachment ofpanel 208 to post 104 using apanel support 182. As can be seen in the aspect depicted inFIG. 2C , thebottom beam 213 a of the plurality ofbeams 213 rests onbottom support level 191, while each of the remaining plurality ofbeams 213 rests on a corresponding first support level. For instance, as can be seen inFIG. 2C thetop beam 213 b of the plurality ofbeams 213 rests on the second support level 189 (and thefirst support level 188. In some embodiments, a portion of the plurality ofbeams 213 can insert into thecorresponding window panel support 182. As also illustrated inFIG. 2C , each of the plurality ofbeams 213 proceeds through acorresponding opening 217 ofsupport cover 215. Further, in various aspects, aslot plate 251 can be secured over the portion of external slot 180 (e.g., using a snap-fit) abovepanel support 182, while asecond slot plate 253 can be secured over the portion ofexternal slot 180 underpanel support 182. - In the aspect depicted in
FIG. 2D , thesupport cover 215 is positioned to cover a panel support, e.g., thepanel support 182 depicted inFIG. 2C . For example, in one aspect, after thebeams 213 ofpanel 208 are installed on the levels of the panel support,support cover 215 may be slid along thebeams 213 and over panel support 182 (e.g., snapped onto).FIG. 2E illustratespanel 208 secured tooutdoor structure 102 withsupport cover 215 positioned over and covering the panel support. While not viewable inFIG. 2E , both ends of thepanel 208 may include asupport cover 215 that covers a panel support, in aspects. - In some aspects,
support cover 215 can secured topanel support 182 using one or more snap-fits. The snap-fit mechanisms may include, but are not limited to, cantilever, torsional, and annular snap-fits. For instance, as illustrated inFIGS. 7A and 7B ,panel support 182 may include a plurality of protrudingtabs 702 that can be aligned and/or received with corresponding structures or snap-fit areas 710 ofsupport cover 715. For example, in various aspects, each protrudingtab 702 may be placed over a corresponding snap-fit area 710 where, when force is applied to supportcover 715 in a direction towardspanel support 182, each of the protrudingtabs 702 on thepanel support 182 “snap” into the corresponding snap-fit area 710 ofsupport cover 715. InFIG. 7A , the close up illustration on the right side also reveals the position of: an opening 186 of the panel support 182 (e.g., for a bolt or other fastener); awindow 187; andlips panel support 182. While the close up illustration on the right ofFIG. 7A shows the interaction of the protrudingtabs 702 with thesupport cover 715 in the regions 700 a, 700 b, and 700 c, at one end of thepanel support 182 andsupport cover 715, it should be understood that, in aspects, protrudingtabs 702 on the opposing end of thepanel support 182 andsupport cover 715 may similarly interact. For instance, the region 700 a may resemble an interaction with a protrudingtab 702 of thepanel support 182 and thesupport cover 715 on the opposing end, represented by region 700 j, while the interactions depicted in regions 700 b and 700 c may resemble interactions of the protrudingtabs 702 andsupport cover 715 in the regions 700 h and 700 i, respectively. In the same or alternative aspects, the interactions between the protrudingtabs 702 andsupport cover 715 depicted in regions 700 b and 700 c may resemble interactions of the protrudingtabs 702 andsupport cover 715 in one or more of regions 700 d, 700 e, 700 f, and 700 g. -
FIGS. 3A-3D illustrate apanel 308 that includes a plurality ofslats 333 positioned between twobeams 331, and a plurality of support covers 315 that each includeopenings 319 and aslot 317 to allowsupport cover 315 to slide along the twobeams 331 and the plurality ofslats 333. Each of the plurality ofslats 333 are inserted into acorresponding slot 321 of at least onebeam 331. For example, a portion of the plurality ofslats 333 may include one end that is inserted into aslot 321 of one beam 331 (e.g., an upper beam) and another end that is inserted into aslot 321 of another beam 331 (e.g., a lower beam). Another portion of the plurality ofslats 333 may include one end that is inserted into theslot 321 of one beam, while the other end forms part of aslat support 323. Slat supports 323 may be inserted into acorresponding slot 321 of each of twobeams 331. As discussed further below, thepanel 308 may be coupled to theoutdoor structure 102, e.g., between twoposts 104 via panel supports 182. - One or
more panels 308 may form a wall ofoutdoor structure 102. For example, a plurality ofpanels 308 may be stacked between twoposts 104 ofoutdoor structure 102 to at least partially close in a side ofoutdoor structure 102. Further,panels 308 may be modular such that one ormore panels 308 may be placed onto, or removed from,outdoor structure 102. For example, apanel 308 may be placed ontooutdoor structure 102 as described herein afteroutdoor structure 102 is built. Similarly, apanel 308 may be removed fromoutdoor structure 102 without dismantlingoutdoor structure 102.FIG. 3B illustratespanel 308 secured tooutdoor structure 102 by apanel support 182. Although only onepanel support 182 is illustrated,panel 308 may be secured to each of twoposts 104 by acorresponding panel support 182. -
FIG. 3C illustrates a closer view of the attachment ofpanel 308 to post 104 using apanel support 182. As illustrated, thebottom beam 331 rests onbottom support level 191 and inserts, at least partially, intobottom window 193. Thetop beam 331 rests on a corresponding first support level (not viewable in this figure) andsecond support level 189. In some instances, thebeam 331 can be inserted, at least partially, into acorresponding window 187. Further,slat support 323 may be positioned within a gap that is formed between thefirst support levels 188 and correspondingsecond support levels 189 ofpanel support 182 to provide additional integrity to thepanel 308. - As also illustrated in
FIGS. 3A and 3C , each of thebeams 331 proceed through acorresponding opening 319 ofsupport cover 315.Openings 319 and slot 317 allowsupport cover 315 to slide alongpanel 308.FIG. 3D illustratespanel 308 attached to twoposts 104 using, for eachpost 104, a panel support 182 (although only one panel support is illustrated based on the view ofFIG. 3D ). -
FIG. 3E illustratessupport cover 315 positioned over and covering a panel support, e.g., thepanel support 182 ofFIG. 3D . For example, after thebeams 331 ofpanel 308 are rested on the levels ofpanel support 182,support cover 315 may be slid alongpanel 308 until it covers and comes into contact withpanel support 182, and is flush withslot plates panel support 182, while asecond slot plate 353 is secured over the portion ofexternal slot 180 underpanel support 182.FIG. 3F illustratespanel 308 secured tooutdoor structure 102 withsupport cover 315 positioned over and covering a panel support, e.g.,panel support 182 ofFIG. 3D . -
FIG. 4A illustrates apanel 408 that includes asolid slat 433 positioned between twobeams 431, and a plurality of support covers 415 that each includeopenings 419 and aslot 417 to allowsupport cover 415 to slide along the twobeams 431 and thesolid slat 433. Thesolid slat 433 is inserted into acorresponding slot 421 of each of the twobeams 431. For example,solid slat 433 may include one end that is inserted into aslot 421 of onebeam 431 and another end that is inserted into aslot 421 of anotherbeam 431. In addition, thesolid slat 433 can optionally be inserted into the gap between the first and second support levels of a panel support, e.g., the first andsecond support levels panel support 182, as depicted inFIG. 1B , for example. - One or
more panels 408 may form a wall ofoutdoor structure 102, e.g., by being coupled to one ormore posts 104 via respective panel supports 182. For example, a plurality ofpanels 408 may be stacked between twoposts 104 ofoutdoor structure 102 to at least partially close in a side ofoutdoor structure 102. Further,panels 408 may be modular such that one ormore panels 308 may be installed onto, or removed from,outdoor structure 102. For example, apanel 408 may be installed ontooutdoor structure 102 as described herein afteroutdoor structure 102 is built. Similarly, apanel 408 may be removed fromoutdoor structure 102 without dismantlingoutdoor structure 102. -
FIG. 4B illustrates a view of the attachment ofpanel 408 to post 104 using apanel support 182. As illustrated, thebottom beam 431 rests onbottom support level 191. A portion of thebottom beam 431 can be inserted intobottom window 193. Thetop beam 431 rests on a corresponding first support level (not seen in the view shown inFIG. 4B ) andsecond support level 189 of atop window 187. A portion oftop beam 431 can be inserted into acorresponding window 187. Further, end 423 ofsolid slat 433 may be positioned within thegap 199 that is formed between the first support levels and correspondingsecond support levels 189 ofpanel support 182. - As also illustrated in
FIG. 4B (and inFIG. 4A ), each of thebeams 431 proceed through acorresponding opening 419 ofsupport cover 415.Openings 419 and slot 417 allowsupport cover 415 to slide alongpanel 408. -
FIG. 4C illustratessupport cover 415 positioned over and covering a panel support, e.g., thepanel support 182 ofFIG. 4B . For example, after thebeams 431 ofpanel 408 are supported on the levels ofpanel support 182,support cover 415 may be slid alongpanel 408 until it covers and comes into contact withpanel support 182, and is flush withslot plates first slot plate 451 is secured over the portion of external slot 180 (e.g., using a snap-fit) abovepanel support 182, while asecond slot plate 453 is secured over the portion ofexternal slot 180 underpanel support 182.FIG. 4D illustratespanel 408 secured tooutdoor structure 102 withsupport cover 415 positioned over and covering the panel support. -
FIGS. 5A-5E illustrate arod support 504 that can be attached to post 104 to hold a rod, such as a curtain rod. To attachrod support 504 to post 104, a plurality ofbolts 184 may be positioned through correspondingopenings 505 ofrod support 504, and further into corresponding cavities of lockingpieces 175.Rod support 504 includes asupport level 511 that allows for a rod (e.g., rod end) to rest. In some aspects, aspacer 506 may be positioned betweenrod support 504 andbeam 106, to provide a defined space betweenbeam 106 androd support 504. Thespacer 506 may be held in place due to a friction fit betweenbeam 106 and one ormore protrusions 572 ofrod support 504, in certain aspects. - As illustrated in
FIG. 5B , the lockingpieces 175 may be positioned such as to be inserted intoexternal slot 180 ofpost 104. For example, the lockingpieces 175 may be positioned vertically alongexternal slot 180, and inserted intoexternal slot 180. As illustrated inFIG. 5C , a back surface ofrod support 504 may engage with a front surface of each ofslot plate 181 andslot plate 183 definingslot 180. - Further, and with reference to
FIG. 5D , to securerod support 504 to post 104, a tightening tool 197 (e.g., a ratchet, screw driver, etc.) may be used to tighten eachbolt 184, which causes thecorresponding locking piece 175 to turn. When turned, a front surface of lockingpiece 175 may engage a back surface of each ofslot plate 181 andslot plate 183. In some examples, each lockingpiece 175 is turned until it is in a horizontal position (e.g., at or near 90 degrees to external slot 180).FIG. 5E illustratesrod support 504 secured to post 104, and withspacer 506 positioned betweenbeam 106 androd support 504. -
FIG. 6A illustratesoutdoor structure 102 with arod support 504 secured to apost 104. Further,rod 602 may be supported, on either end, by a support level ofrod support 504, e.g.,support level 511 ofrod support 504 depicted inFIG. 5A .Rod 602 further includes a plurality of rod holder covers 604 which include an opening allowing them to slide alongrod 602. Whenrod 602 is rested on rod supports 504, the rod holder covers 604 may be slid, on either end, over rod supports 504. In some examples, a snap-fit mechanism as described herein secures rod support covers 604 to rod supports 504.FIG. 6B illustratesrod 602 secured to arod holder 504 on apost 104. As shown inFIG. 6B ,rod 602 is secured at both ends to apost 104 using arod holder 504 prior to securing the rod support covers 604. In this example aspect ofFIG. 6B , nospacer 506 is utilized. - In the example aspect of
FIG. 6C ,spacer 506 is positioned betweenrod support 504 andbeam 506, with therod 602 in position to be secured by therod support 504.Spacer 506 can be held in place due to friction with abottom surface 611 ofbeam 106 and one or more one ormore protrusions 572 ofrod support 504.FIGS. 6D and 6E illustraterod 602 secured to post 104 withrod support 504, as well asrod support cover 604 over and coveringrod support 504. Further,spacer 506 is positioned betweenrod support 504 andbeam 106. In the aspect depicted inFIGS. 6D and 6E , acover 603 is provided to cover the opening of thepost 104. -
FIG. 8A illustrates acorbel 802 that may be attached to apost 104.Corbel 802 includes a securingelement 806 with a receivingslot 808, and a guidingelement 804 that includes afirst guiding slot 810 and asecond guiding slot 812. As seen inFIGS. 8A and 8B ,post 104 includes anexternal slot 867 that can be defined by first andsecond slot plates side plates second slot plates plates Post 104 further includes first andsecond shoulders side plates - To secure
corbel 802 to post 104, first andsecond slot plates post 104 are inserted into and through first guidingslot 810 andsecond guiding slot 812, respectively, ofcorbel 802. For example, as illustrated inFIG. 8B , guidingelement 804 ofcorbel 802 may be positioned betweenside plates slot 810 andsecond guiding slot 812 allow for the passage of first andsecond slot plates element 804 extends fromside plate 883A toside plate 883B. In some examples, a length of guidingelement 804 is wider than a width ofexternal slot 867. Ascorbel 802 is slid further downpost 104, receivingslot 808 of securingelement 806 engages with an upper edge, e.g., first andsecond shoulders post 104. For example,FIG. 8C illustrates securingelement 806 secured to post 104. Specifically, first andsecond shoulders post 104 engage with receivingslot 808 of securingelement 806, to complete the securing ofcorbel 802 to post 104. -
FIG. 8D illustrates acover 119 that can be secured to post 104 using one or more fasteners, such as bolts. For example, a bolt may be placed through anopening 893 ofcover 119, and further into a receivingcavity 895. Receivingcavity 895 may include threads configured to receive corresponding threads of the bolt. In some examples, a portion ofcover 119 is positioned over a beam, e.g.,beam 106 ofFIG. 1A , such that thecover 119 is attached to both thepost 104 and thebeam 106.FIGS. 8E and 8F illustratecover 119 onpost 104. As illustrated inFIG. 8E , while a bolt may be placed into each opening 893 ofcover 119 to secure thecover 119 to thepost 104, a bolt may be placed through each of theopenings 897 to secure thecover 119 to one ormore beams 106.FIG. 8F also depicts thecover 119 contacting thepost 104 and at least a portion of thecorbel 802, e.g., the securingelement 806. - Various aspects of the present disclosure are also be described in the following numbered clauses.
-
Clause 1. An outdoor structure, comprising: a front beam; a back beam opposite the front beam; a first side beam; a second side beam opposite the first side beam; a plurality of posts, each post coupled to at least one of the front beam, the back beam, the first side beam, and the second side beam; and a panel support coupled to at least one of the plurality of posts. - Clause 2. The outdoor structure of
clause 1, comprising a panel coupled to the panel support. - Clause 3. The outdoor structure of clause 2, wherein the panel support comprises a plurality of windows and corresponding support levels.
- Clause 4. The outdoor structure of clause 3, wherein the panel comprises a plurality of
- Clause 5. The outdoor structure of clause 4, wherein the panel comprises a plurality of slats coupled to at least one of the plurality of beams.
- Clause 6. The outdoor structure of clause 4, wherein the panel comprises a slat forming a solid surface between the plurality of beams.
- Clause 7. The outdoor structure of clause 4, wherein the panel comprises at least one support cover configured to slide along the plurality of beams and over the panel support.
- Clause 8. The outdoor structure of clause 7, wherein the at least one support cover couples to the panel support with at least one snap-fit.
- Clause 9. The outdoor structure of
clause 1 wherein: the at least one of the plurality of posts comprises an external slot defined by a first slot plate and a second slot plate; and the panel support is in contact with the first slot plate and the second slot plate. - Clause 10. The outdoor structure of clause 9, comprising at least one locking piece, wherein the locking piece is configured to rotate within the external slot to couple the panel support to the at least one of the plurality of posts.
- Clause 11. An outdoor structure, comprising: a front beam; a back beam opposite the front beam; a first side beam; a second side beam opposite the first side beam; a plurality of posts, each post coupled to at least one of the front beam, the back beam, the first side beam, and the second side beam; and a rod support coupled to at least one of the plurality of posts.
- Clause 12. The outdoor structure of clause 11 comprising a rod coupled to the rod support.
- Clause 13. The outdoor structure of clause 11 wherein: the at least one of the plurality of posts comprises an external slot defined by a first slot plate and a second slot plate; and the rod support is in contact with the first slot plate and the second slot plate.
- Clause 14. The outdoor structure of clause 13 comprising at least one locking piece, wherein the locking piece is configured to rotate within the external slot to couple the rod support to the at least one of the plurality of posts.
- Clause 15. The outdoor structure of clause 11 comprising a spacing element positioned between the rod support and one of the front beam, the back beam, the first side beam, and the second side beam.
- Clause 16. The outdoor structure of clause 15, wherein the rod support comprises a protrusion, and the spacing element is secured by a friction fit between a bottom surface of the one of the front beam, the back beam, the first side beam, and the second side beam and the protrusion.
- The foregoing is provided for purposes of illustrating, explaining, and describing embodiments of these disclosures. Modifications and adaptations to these embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art and may be made without departing from the scope or spirit of these disclosures.
Claims (16)
Priority Applications (4)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
PCT/US2022/039984 WO2023018820A1 (en) | 2021-08-11 | 2022-08-10 | Outdoor structure design and components |
CA3228974A CA3228974A1 (en) | 2021-08-11 | 2022-08-10 | Outdoor structure design and components |
US17/885,112 US20230046879A1 (en) | 2021-08-11 | 2022-08-10 | Outdoor structure design and components |
MX2024001875A MX2024001875A (en) | 2021-08-11 | 2022-08-10 | Outdoor structure design and components. |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US202163231855P | 2021-08-11 | 2021-08-11 | |
US17/885,112 US20230046879A1 (en) | 2021-08-11 | 2022-08-10 | Outdoor structure design and components |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20230046879A1 true US20230046879A1 (en) | 2023-02-16 |
Family
ID=85178145
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US17/885,112 Pending US20230046879A1 (en) | 2021-08-11 | 2022-08-10 | Outdoor structure design and components |
Country Status (4)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20230046879A1 (en) |
CA (1) | CA3228974A1 (en) |
MX (1) | MX2024001875A (en) |
WO (1) | WO2023018820A1 (en) |
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
USD1021142S1 (en) * | 2022-11-30 | 2024-04-02 | Weibing Shan | Sunshade |
USD1050490S1 (en) * | 2024-06-06 | 2024-11-05 | Linhai Tianchen Leisure Products Co., Ltd. | Carport |
Family Cites Families (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4739594A (en) * | 1986-12-12 | 1988-04-26 | Langford John D | Gazebo structure and method of assembling the same |
US6349511B1 (en) * | 2000-06-28 | 2002-02-26 | Mcalpin Patrick K. | Prefabricated multi-sided building construction system |
GB0205467D0 (en) * | 2002-03-07 | 2002-04-24 | Lennon Keith | Improvements in and relating to garden structures, particularly pergola systems |
US7963072B2 (en) * | 2008-10-14 | 2011-06-21 | Suncast Technologies, Llc | Gazebo structure |
KR102285294B1 (en) * | 2021-01-20 | 2021-08-04 | (주)미데크 | Prefabricated fence |
-
2022
- 2022-08-10 MX MX2024001875A patent/MX2024001875A/en unknown
- 2022-08-10 US US17/885,112 patent/US20230046879A1/en active Pending
- 2022-08-10 CA CA3228974A patent/CA3228974A1/en active Pending
- 2022-08-10 WO PCT/US2022/039984 patent/WO2023018820A1/en active Application Filing
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
USD1021142S1 (en) * | 2022-11-30 | 2024-04-02 | Weibing Shan | Sunshade |
USD1050490S1 (en) * | 2024-06-06 | 2024-11-05 | Linhai Tianchen Leisure Products Co., Ltd. | Carport |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
MX2024001875A (en) | 2024-04-29 |
CA3228974A1 (en) | 2023-02-16 |
WO2023018820A1 (en) | 2023-02-16 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
CA2245624C (en) | Prefabricated plastic shed and components therefor | |
US20230046879A1 (en) | Outdoor structure design and components | |
US6029954A (en) | Railing assembly | |
US6425218B1 (en) | Panel structure | |
US4074486A (en) | Panel wall construction | |
US4571907A (en) | Frame connector system | |
USRE32890E (en) | Frame connector system | |
US20080289278A1 (en) | Framing system for mounting flexible sheets | |
CA2000617A1 (en) | Partition structures and frame elements therefor | |
CA2163141A1 (en) | Shutter system and method | |
US7051485B2 (en) | Ceiling panel system | |
US6092348A (en) | Aluminum framing components and component systems for pool, patio and glass enclosures and the like | |
JPS6322282Y2 (en) | ||
JPS5942437Y2 (en) | Handrails for balconies, balconies, etc. | |
EP0722033B1 (en) | Corner post for facade composed of plastic framed elements | |
CN217949481U (en) | Curtain wall | |
JP7527898B2 (en) | Framed deck | |
JP2557193Y2 (en) | Mounting structure of the column cover in the simple partitioning device | |
JPH0118723Y2 (en) | ||
JPS5840167Y2 (en) | Connection structure on balcony | |
JPS60406Y2 (en) | storage room | |
JPH053614Y2 (en) | ||
JPH0232784Y2 (en) | ||
JPH0640721Y2 (en) | Prefabricated small building | |
JPS6125642Y2 (en) |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: DOCKETED NEW CASE - READY FOR EXAMINATION |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: CPG INTERNATIONAL LLC, ILLINOIS Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:SELZER, CHRISTOPHER SCOTT;REEL/FRAME:063609/0556 Effective date: 20230510 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: THE AZEK GROUP LLC, ILLINOIS Free format text: CHANGE OF NAME;ASSIGNOR:CPG INTERNATIONAL LLC;REEL/FRAME:065267/0864 Effective date: 20230801 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT, NORTH CAROLINA Free format text: SECURITY INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:THE AZEK GROUP LLC;REEL/FRAME:069057/0231 Effective date: 20240926 |