Tubular fencing components formed from plastic sheet material
US5899239A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 29, 1996 |
| Grant date | May 4, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 29, 2016 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE04H17/20
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
Tubular components for use in modular fencing systems are manufactured utilizing die-forming of a flat plastic sheet, rather than by profile extrusion of a tubular form. This approach is made feasible by an aesthetically acceptable and structurally sound longitudinal edge joint configuration. The joint is formed by cooperating clip members formed along opposing longitudinal edges of the sheet. The clip members are interlocked with each other in overlapping relation following the die-forming operations. The clip members are substantially concealed by peripheral side portions of the component that are held in closely spaced or abutted relation. Structural integrity is assured by staking overlapping portions of the clip members to each other at longitudinally spaced locations. This can be accomplished with a thin circular blade having teeth that rotate to pass between the peripheral side portions and to press against and deform the overlapping portions, one into the other. In addition to allowing substantially higher rates of production and material savings (as compared with profile extrusion methods), the technique facilitates the formation of wood-simulating graining and color varie…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.