POLE PROTECTOR

Abstract

The present application is directed to a protective cover for a utility pole comprising: a first protective portion; and a second protective portion; wherein the first and second protective portions are each substantially hemispherical and combine to surround and protect a pole at the ground interface.

Claims

1. A protective cover for a utility pole comprising: a first protective portion; and a second protective portion; wherein the first and second protective portions are each substantially hemispherical and combine to surround and protect a pole at the ground interface.

2. The protective cover for a utility pole of claim 1, wherein each of the first and second protective portions comprise lower portions containing points, the points configured for driving into the ground to secure the first and second protective portions in the ground.

3. The protective cover for a utility pole of claim 1, wherein the first and second protective portions comprise pegs for installation.

4. The protective cover for a utility pole of claim 3, wherein the pegs comprise a port for addition of an adhesive.

5. The protective cover for a utility pole of claim 1, wherein the first and second protective portions comprise receivers for fasteners.

6. The protective cover for a utility pole of claim 1, wherein each of the first and second protective portions comprise two receivers for fasteners.

7. The protective cover for a utility pole of claim 7, wherein the receivers for the fasteners have an open vertical dimension larger than the fastener width.

8. The protective cover for a utility pole of claim 1, wherein the first and second protective portions comprise internal recesses for receiving an insert.

9. The protective cover for a utility pole of claim 8, wherein the insert expands the circumference of the protective covers.

10. The protective cover for a utility pole of claim 9, wherein the insert has a width of less than 2 inches.

11. The protective cover for a utility pole of claim 1, wherein the first and second portions comprise protrusions on the lower outside for securing into the ground.

12. The protective cover for a utility pole of claim 1, wherein the first and second portions comprise multiple protrusions on the lower outside for securing into the ground.

13. The protective cover for a utility pole of claim 1, wherein the first and second portions are concave.

14. The protective cover for a utility pole of claim 1, wherein the first and second portions are hemispherical.

15. The protective cover for a utility pole of claim 1, wherein the first and second portions are mirrors of one another.

16. The protective cover for a utility pole of claim 1, wherein the first and second portions comprise a shovel tip.

17. The protective cover for a utility pole of claim 16, wherein the shovel tip comprises an external taper.

18. A protective cover for a utility pole comprising: a first protective portion; and a second protective portion; wherein the first and second protective portions are each substantially hemispherical and combine to surround and protect a pole at the ground interface; wherein each of the first and second protective portions comprise lower portions containing points, the points configured for driving into the ground to secure the first and second protective portions in the ground; wherein the first and second protective portions comprise pegs for installation, wherein the pegs comprise a port for addition of an adhesive; wherein the first and second protective portions comprise receivers for fasteners; wherein each of the first and second protective portions comprise two receivers for fasteners; wherein the receivers for the fasteners have an open vertical dimension larger than the fastener width; wherein the first and second protective portions comprise internal recesses for receiving an insert; and wherein the insert expands the circumference of the protective covers.

19. The protective cover for a utility pole of claim 18, wherein the first and second portions comprise protrusions on the lower outside for securing into the ground.

20. A protective cover for a utility pole comprising: a first protective portion; and a second protective portion; wherein the first and second protective portions are each substantially hemispherical and combine to surround and protect a pole at the ground interface; wherein each of the first and second protective portions comprise lower portions containing points, the points configured for driving into the ground to secure the first and second protective portions in the ground; and wherein the first and second portions comprise multiple protrusions on the lower outside for securing into the ground.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0074] Aspects may be more completely understood in connection with the following figures (FIGS.), in which:

[0075] FIG. 1 is an image showing a light pole installed in grass adjacent to walking paths.

[0076] FIG. 2 is simplified drawing showing lower potions of a pole at the ground interface, showing regions above and below the pole.

[0077] FIG. 3 is a drawing depicting a pole protector installed at the ground interface, in accordance with various embodiments herein.

[0078] FIG. 4 is a is a front view of a pole protector in accordance with various embodiments herein.

[0079] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a pole protector in accordance with various embodiments herein.

[0080] FIG. 6 is a is a perspective view of two combined pole protectors in accordance with various embodiments herein.

[0081] FIG. 7 is a top plan view of two combined pole protectors in accordance with various embodiments herein.

[0082] FIG. 8 is a top view of pole protector in accordance with various embodiments herein.

[0083] FIG. 9 is a side elevational view of two combined pole protectors in accordance with various embodiments herein.

[0084] FIG. 10 is a side cross-sectional view of the two combined pole protectors of FIG. 9.

[0085] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of two of two combined pole protectors in accordance with various embodiments herein, shown installed on a pole.

[0086] FIG. 12 is a front elevational view of the two combined pole protectors of FIG. 11.

[0087] FIG. 13 is a closeup perspective view of two combined pole protectors in accordance with various embodiments herein, shown installed on a pole.

[0088] While embodiments are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specifics thereof have been shown by way of example and drawings and will be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the scope herein is not limited to the particular aspects described. On the contrary, the intention is to cover modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0089] Aspects may be more completely understood in connection with the following figures (FIGS.), in which:

[0090] FIG. 1 is an image showing a pole 100 (typically a light pole, but optionally a pole for other purposes, such as wireless access point, etc.). installed in grass 102 adjacent to walking paths. The pole 100 continues into the ground and the base of the pole 100 is exposed to tools that are used to mow the grass, such as weed trimmers and lawn mowers, which can cause damage to the pole.

[0091] FIG. 2 is simplified drawing showing a pole 100 with upper section 204 (drawn in partial view)) and lower section 206 (drawn in partial view); with lower potions of a pole 100 at the ground interface 202, showing above ground region 208 above and below ground region 210.

[0092] FIG. 3 is a drawing depicting a pole protector 300 installed at ground interface 202, in accordance with various embodiments herein. The pole protector 300 is attached to the pole 100 (shown in outline view). Typically, two pole protectors 300 are installed, with the pole protectors 300 wrapping around the circumference of the pole 100 so as to provide full protection around the base of the pole 100. In addition, the protection is primarily above ground, but is also in some instances partially below ground. Typical above ground coverage is around 3 to 6 inches above ground, with below ground coverage being partial protection also to about 3 to 6 inches, with full protection (360 degrees) being less, such as around 1 to 2 inches. It will be understood that the extent of protection can vary depending upon terrain, and also that various size pole protectors are possible. In addition, as it is possible for ground levels to change (such as addition of mulch or soil around the pole to raise ground levels, or reduction in ground levels from subsidence or erosion. Thus, it is generally desirable to have the protection extend at least part way below the ground to allow for changes in ground height.

[0093] FIG. 4 is a is a front view of a pole protector 300 in accordance with various embodiments herein, and FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the pole protector 300 made in accordance with various embodiments herein. The pole protector 300 includes an above ground portion 400 and tapered lower edge 402 that fits below ground, a lower tip 404 and an upper lip 405. The protector 300 includes a first edge 410 and a second edge 412. The first edge 410 and second edge 412 are configured to extend next to adjacent edges of other adjacent pole protectors. The protector 300 also includes pairs of receivers for fasteners, specifically first upper receiver 420 and first lower receiver 422; and second upper receiver 424 and second lower receiver 426. The upper and lower receivers pair with corresponding upper and lower receivers on a second protector. The pole protector 300 includes protrusions 430 which help to secure the pole protector in the ground and prevent it from slipping back upward. A reinforcing rib 406 extends out from the lower portion of the pole protector 300 and includes an upper contact surfaces 408 for pushing down with an installer's foot or a tool to drive the pole protector 300 into the ground around a pole. As shown in FIG. 5, the pole protector 300 includes, in certain embodiments, a slot for insertion of an expansion piece to allow for the pole protector to fit a plurality of sizes of poles, as described below. The slot as depicted in FIG. 5 includes an external raised portion 510 and an internal recessed portion 512. The internal recessed portion 512

[0094] FIG. 6 is a is a perspective view of two combined pole protectors in accordance with various embodiments herein. The pole protectors 300 each include an interior 600 as well as (in this embodiment) an insert 602. The pole protectors 300 further include tapered lower edges 402, a lower tip 404 and an upper lip 405. The protector 300 includes a first edge 410 and a second edge 412. The first edge 410 and second edge 412 are configured to extend next to adjacent edges of other adjacent pole protectors. The protector 300 also includes pairs of receivers for fasteners, specifically first upper receiver 420 and first lower receiver 422; and second upper receiver 424 and second lower receiver 426. The pole protector 300 includes protrusions 430 which help to secure the pole protector in the ground and prevent it from slipping back upward. A reinforcing rib 406 extends out from the lower portion of the pole protector 300 and includes an upper contact surfaces 408 for pushing down with an installer's foot or a tool to drive the pole protector 300 into the ground around a pole. The pole protectors optionally converge at junction 604. Also, in the embodiment shown the pole protectors 300 include a sharp edge 610 able to cut into the ground.

[0095] FIG. 7 is a top plan view of two combined pole protectors in accordance with various embodiments herein. Upper contact surfaces 408 are shown opposed to one another, forming a surrounded interior 730 that is protected by the pole protectors (and is where the pole is located).

[0096] FIG. 8 is a top view of pole protector 300 in accordance with various embodiments herein. FIG. 8 shows how the protector 300 often has a gap 850 relative to a standard circle, and thus the pole protector 300 is flared open to a certain extent, allowing the pole protector 300 to conform to multiple sizes of poles. Fasteners and adhesive can be used to close the gap 850 to snug the pole protector 300 against a pole.

[0097] FIG. 9 is a side elevational view of two combined pole protectors in accordance with various embodiments herein. FIG. 10 is a side cross-sectional view of the two combined pole protectors of FIG. 9. A fastener 970 is shown securing the pole protectors 300, 700 together, the fastener 970 securing a gap guard 980. The gap guard 980 is able to slide within a gap between the pole protectors 300, 700 to conform to various diameters of poles. The pole protectors 300, 700 include tapered lower edges 402, a lower tip 404 and an upper lip 405. The protector 300 includes a first edge 410 and a second edge 412. The first edge 410 and second edge 412 are configured to extend next to adjacent edges of other adjacent pole protectors. The protector 300 also includes pairs of receivers for fasteners, specifically first upper receiver 420 and first lower receiver 422; and second upper receiver 424 and second lower receiver 426. The pole protector 300 includes protrusions 430 which help to secure the pole protector in the ground and prevent it from slipping back upward. A reinforcing rib 406 extends out from the lower portion of the pole protector 300, and includes an upper contact surfaces 408 for pushing down with an installer's foot or a tool to drive the pole protector 300 into the ground around a pole. A tip 960 is shown in FIG. 9

[0098] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of two of two combined pole protectors in accordance with various embodiments herein, shown installed on a pole. FIG. 12 is a front elevational view of the two combined pole protectors of FIG. 11. FIG. 13 is a closeup perspective view of two combined pole protectors in accordance with various embodiments herein, shown installed on a pole. A fastener 1170 is shown securing the pole protectors 300 together, in particular while any adhesive cures to hold the pole protectors 300 to the pole.

[0099] Further, the present subject matter is directed to:

[0100] In an embodiment, a protective cover for a utility pole is included having a first protective portion, and a second protective portion, wherein the first and second protective portions are each substantially hemispherical and combine to surround and protect a pole at the ground interface.

[0101] In an embodiment, wherein each of the first and second protective portions include lower portions containing points, the points configured for driving into the ground to secure the first and second protective portions in the ground.

[0102] In an embodiment, the first and second protective portions include pegs for installation.

[0103] In an embodiment, the pegs include a port for addition of an adhesive.

[0104] In an embodiment, the first and second protective portions include receivers for fasteners.

[0105] In an embodiment, wherein each of the first and second protective portions include two receivers for fasteners.

[0106] In an embodiment, the receivers for the fasteners have an open vertical dimension larger than the fastener width.

[0107] In an embodiment, the first and second protective portions include internal recesses for receiving an insert.

[0108] In an embodiment, the insert expands the circumference of the protective covers.

[0109] In an embodiment, the insert has a width of less than 2 inches.

[0110] In an embodiment, the first and second portions include protrusions on the lower outside for securing into the ground.

[0111] In an embodiment, the first and second portions include multiple protrusions on the lower outside for securing into the ground.

[0112] In an embodiment, the first and second portions are concave.

[0113] In an embodiment, the first and second portions are hemispherical.

[0114] In an embodiment, the first and second portions are mirrors of one another.

[0115] In an embodiment, the first and second portions include a shovel tip.

[0116] In an embodiment, the shovel tip includes an external taper.

[0117] In an embodiment, a protective cover for a utility pole is included having a first protective portion, and a second protective portion, wherein the first and second protective portions are each substantially hemispherical and combine to surround and protect a pole at the ground interface, wherein each of the first and second protective portions include lower portions containing points, the points configured for driving into the ground to secure the first and second protective portions in the ground.

[0118] In an embodiment, the first and second protective portions include pegs for installation.

[0119] In an embodiment, the pegs include a port for addition of an adhesive.

[0120] In an embodiment, the first and second protective portions include receivers for fasteners.

[0121] In an embodiment, wherein each of the first and second protective portions include two receivers for fasteners.

[0122] In an embodiment, the receivers for the fasteners have an open vertical dimension larger than the fastener width.

[0123] In an embodiment, the first and second protective portions include internal recesses for receiving an insert.

[0124] In an embodiment, the insert expands the circumference of the protective covers.

[0125] In an embodiment, the insert has a width of less than 2 inches.

[0126] In an embodiment, the first and second portions include protrusions on the lower outside for securing into the ground.

[0127] In an embodiment, the first and second portions include multiple protrusions on the lower outside for securing into the ground.

[0128] In an embodiment, the first and second portions are concave.

[0129] In an embodiment, the first and second portions are hemispherical.

[0130] In an embodiment, the first and second portions are mirrors of one another.

[0131] In an embodiment, the first and second portions include a shovel tip.

[0132] In an embodiment, the shovel tip includes an external taper.

[0133] In an embodiment, the shovel tip includes an internal taper.

[0134] In an embodiment, a protective cover for a utility pole is included having a first protective portion, and a second protective portion, wherein the first and second protective portions are each substantially hemispherical and combine to surround and protect a pole at the ground interface, wherein each of the first and second protective portions include lower portions containing points, the points configured for driving into the ground to secure the first and second protective portions in the ground, wherein each of the first and second protective portions include two receivers for fasteners.

[0135] In an embodiment, the first and second protective portions include pegs for installation.

[0136] In an embodiment, the pegs include a port for addition of an adhesive.

[0137] In an embodiment, the first and second protective portions include receivers for fasteners.

[0138] In an embodiment, the receivers for the fasteners have an open vertical dimension larger than the fastener width.

[0139] In an embodiment, the first and second protective portions include internal recesses for receiving an insert.

[0140] In an embodiment, the insert expands the circumference of the protective covers.

[0141] In an embodiment, the insert has a width of less than 2 inches.

[0142] In an embodiment, the first and second portions include protrusions on the lower outside for securing into the ground.

[0143] In an embodiment, the first and second portions include multiple protrusions on the lower outside for securing into the ground.

[0144] In an embodiment, the first and second portions are concave.

[0145] In an embodiment, the first and second portions are hemispherical.

[0146] In an embodiment, the first and second portions are mirrors of one another.

[0147] In an embodiment, the first and second portions include a shovel tip.

[0148] In an embodiment, the shovel tip includes an external taper.

[0149] In an embodiment, a protective cover for a utility pole is included having a first protective portion, and a second protective portion, wherein the first and second protective portions are each substantially hemispherical and combine to surround and protect a pole at the ground interface, wherein each of the first and second protective portions include lower portions containing points, the points configured for driving into the ground to secure the first and second protective portions in the ground, and wherein the first and second portions include multiple protrusions on the lower outside for securing into the ground.

[0150] In an embodiment, the first and second protective portions include pegs for installation.

[0151] In an embodiment, the pegs include a port for addition of an adhesive.

[0152] In an embodiment, the first and second protective portions include receivers for fasteners.

[0153] In an embodiment, the receivers for the fasteners have an open vertical dimension larger than the fastener width.

[0154] In an embodiment, the first and second protective portions include internal recesses for receiving an insert.

[0155] In an embodiment, the insert expands the circumference of the protective covers.

[0156] In an embodiment, the insert has a width of less than 2 inches.

[0157] In an embodiment, the first and second portions include protrusions on the lower outside for securing into the ground.

[0158] In an embodiment, the first and second portions include multiple protrusions on the lower outside for securing into the ground.

[0159] In an embodiment, the first and second portions are concave.

[0160] In an embodiment, the first and second portions are hemispherical.

[0161] In an embodiment, the first and second portions are mirrors of one another.

[0162] In an embodiment, the first and second portions include a shovel tip.

[0163] In an embodiment, the shovel tip includes an external taper.

[0164] It should be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. It should also be noted that the term “or” is generally employed in its sense including “and/or” unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

[0165] It should also be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the phrase “configured” describes a system, apparatus, or other structure that is constructed or configured to perform a particular task or adopt a particular configuration. The phrase “configured” can be used interchangeably with other similar phrases such as arranged and configured, constructed and arranged, constructed, manufactured and arranged, and the like.

[0166] All publications and patent applications in this specification are indicative of the level of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. All publications and patent applications are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application was specifically and individually indicated by reference.

[0167] As used herein, the recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints shall include all numbers subsumed within that range (e.g., 2 to 8 includes 2.1, 2.8, 5.3, 7, etc.).

[0168] The headings used herein are provided for consistency with suggestions under 37 CFR 1.77 or otherwise to provide organizational cues. These headings shall not be viewed to limit or characterize the invention(s) set out in any claims that may issue from this disclosure. As an example, although the headings refer to a “Field,” such claims should not be limited by the language chosen under this heading to describe the so-called technical field. Further, a description of a technology in the “Background” is not an admission that technology is prior art to any invention(s) in this disclosure. Neither is the “Summary” to be considered as a characterization of the invention(s) set forth in issued claims.

[0169] The embodiments described herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed in the following detailed description. Rather, the embodiments are chosen and described so that others skilled in the art can appreciate and understand the principles and practices. As such, aspects have been described with reference to various specific and preferred embodiments and techniques. However, it should be understood that many variations and modifications may be made while remaining within the spirit and scope herein.