Abstract
A post protector is disclosed that provides protection for the lower portion of a mailbox post. Protection is provided against string trimmers and edgers and other impacting implements in a landscape environment. A shielded chamber receives latches that allow simple and concealed assembly without the need for fasteners or tools. In one embodiment, the post protector may be stacked for creating a unique visual effect and added protection. In another embodiment, perimeter flanges for pinning to a soil surface are provided. The structure provides an aesthetic complement to downspout protectors having a similar profile.
Claims
1. A post protector, comprising: a first half and an opposite second half, each of the first half and the second half comprising: a base comprising a plurality of panels forming a base perimeter; the base perimeter circumscribing 180 degrees of a polygon; an extension comprising a plurality of panels extending upwards from the base and angled inwards towards the base perimeter; the panels of the extension converging to form a post perimeter at an apex of the extension circumscribing three sides of a rectangle; a chamber defined by a difference between the base perimeter and the post perimeter; and, a latch extending from each of opposite ends of the base; and, the latches of the first half connectable to the latches of the second half; the latches of the second half connectable to the latches of the first half; each of the latches of the first half having a tab positioned within the chamber of the second half; each of the latches of the second half having a tab positioned within the chamber of the first half; and, wherein upon connection, the tabs of the first half and the tabs of the second half are concealed within the chamber; and, wherein the first half post perimeter and the second half post perimeter form a rectangular opening through which a mailbox post may extend.
2. The post protector of claim 1, further comprising: each of the tabs of the first half being adjacent to an opposing base panel of the second half; each of the tabs of the second half being adjacent to an opposing base panel of the first half; and, wherein the proximity of the tabs of the first half and second half to a base panel increases the assembled stability of the post protector.
3. The post protector of claim 1, further comprising: the base panels including a base right and a base left in parallel relation; the first half latches further comprising: a transition extending inward from each of the base right and the base left; the tab extending from each transition in a direction substantially parallel to that of the base right and base left; and, a slot located above each transition between the tab and the base right and the tab and the base left; the second half latches further comprising: a transition extending inward from each of the base right and the base left; the tab extending from each transition in a direction substantially parallel to that of the base right and base left; and, a slot located below each transition between the tab and the base right and the tab and the base left; and, wherein upon connection of the first half and the second half, the slots of the first half latches are occupied by the transitions of the second half latches and the slots of the second half latches are occupied by the transitions of the first half latches.
4. The post protector of claim 1, further comprising: wherein the latches of the second half are lowered over the latches of the first half to connect the first half and the second half of the post protector together.
5. The post protector of claim 1, further comprising: the panels of the base being rectilinear; and, the panels of the extension being non-rectangular polygons.
6. The post protector of claim 3, further comprising: the base comprising: a base front located between the base right and the base left; the extension comprising: an extension right contiguous with and extending above the base right; an extension front contiguous with and extending above the base front; and, an extension left contiguous with and extending above the base left.
7. The post protector of claim 3, further comprising: the base comprising: a base right chamfer adjacent the base right; a base front adjacent the base right chamfer; and, a base left chamfer between and adjacent to the base front and to the base left; the extension comprising: an extension right contiguous with and extending above the base right; an extension right chamfer continuous with and extending above the base right chamfer; an extension front contiguous with and extending above the base front; an extension left chamfer contiguous with and extending above the base left chamfer; and, an extension left contiguous with and extending above the base left.
8. The post protector of claim 1, further comprising: the panels of the extension being adjustably inclinable to conform to the post perimeter.
9. The post protector of claim 1, further comprising: the post protector being stackable on a post for protection to a greater height and to achieve a modifiable aesthetic effect.
10. The post protector of claim 1, further comprising: a flange extending laterally outward from the base.
11. The post protector of claim 10, further comprising: an anchor hole on the flange; and, the anchor hole receivable of a soil pin for securing the post protector to a soil surface.
12. The post protector of claim 1, further comprising: the post perimeter sized to receive a mailbox post in sufficient proximity to limit foreign material entry into the chamber.
13. The post protector of claim 1, further comprising: the post perimeter forming a rectangle, and, the base perimeter forming an irregular hexagon.
14. The post protector of claim 1, further comprising: the post protector made of steel having a thickness of between 12 and 16 gauge.
15. A method of manufacturing the post protector of claim 6, comprising the steps of: providing a flat sheet metal template for the post protector, the template in a template plane; bend forming the extension left and extension right inward between 17 and 21 degrees to the template plane; bend forming the extension front inward between 20 and 25 degrees to the template plane; and, bend forming the base left and base right inward between 88 and 92 degrees to the template plane.
16. The method of manufacturing the post protector of claim 15, further comprising the steps of: bend forming the transitions inward at their intersections with the base to an obtuse angular amount; bend forming the transitions outward at their intersection with the tab to the obtuse angular amount; and wherein the bends to the transition position the tabs substantially parallel to base right and base left.
17. A method of manufacturing the post protector of claim 7, comprising the steps of: providing a flat sheet metal template for the post protector, the template in a template plane; bend forming the extension left and extension right inward between 18 and 23 degrees to the template plane; bend forming the extension left chamfer and extension right chamfer inward between 15 and 19 degrees to the template plane; bend forming the extension front inward between 19 and 24 degrees to the template plane; bend forming the base left and base right inward between 42 and 47 degrees to the template plane; and, bend forming the base left chamfer and the base right chamfer inward between 43 and 46 degrees to the template plane.
18. The method of manufacturing the post protector of claim 17, further comprising the steps of: bend forming the transitions inward at their intersections with the base to an obtuse angular amount; bend forming the transitions outward at their intersection with the tab to the obtuse angular amount; and, wherein the bends to the transition position the tabs substantially parallel to base right and base left.
19. A post protector, comprising: a first half and an opposite second half; the first half and the second half further comprising a base comprising: a base left, a base front, and a base right; an extension comprising: an extension left extending above the base left; an extension front extending above the base front; an extension right extending above the base right; and, a post perimeter formed between the extension right, extension front, and the extension left and between ends of the extension left and the extension right opposite to the extension front; a base perimeter formed between the base right, base front, and base left and between ends of the base left and the base right opposite to the base front; a chamber defined by the difference between the base perimeter and the post perimeter; and the first half and the second half each having a latch extending inward from each of its base left and base right; and, the latches of the second half engaging with the latches of the first half within the chamber when the second half is lowered against a mailbox post to having the first half against the mailbox post and positioned beneath the second half.
20. A post protector, comprising: a first half and an opposite second half; the first half and the second half further comprising: a base comprising: a base left, a base left chamfer, a base front, a base right chamfer, and a base right; an extension comprising: an extension left extending above the base left; an extension left chamfer extending above the base left chamfer; an extension front extending above the base front; an extension right chamfer extending above the base right chamfer; and, an extension right extending above the base right; and, a rectangular post perimeter formed between the extension right, extension front, and the extension left and between ends of the extension left and the extension right opposite to the extension front; a base perimeter formed between the base right, base right chamfer, base front, base left chamfer, base left, and between ends of the base left and the base right opposite to the base front; a chamber defined by the difference between the base perimeter and the post perimeter; the first half and the second half each having a latch extending inward from each of its base left and base right; and, the latches of the second half engaging with the latches of the first half within the chamber when the second half is lowered against a post to having the first half against the post and positioned beneath the second half.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
(1) The drawings constitute a part of this specification and include exemplary embodiments to the disclosed device, which may be embodied in various forms. It is to be understood that, in some instances, various aspects of the disclosed device may be shown exaggerated, enlarged or otherwise spatially modified to facilitate an understanding of the disclosed device.
(2) FIG. 1 is a photograph of the prior art.
(3) FIG. 2 is a second photograph of the prior art.
(4) FIG. 3 is a third photograph of the prior art.
(5) FIG. 4 is a fourth photograph of the prior art.
(6) FIG. 5 is an isometric front view of an embodiment of the drainage junction shield, illustrating various elements of that embodiment.
(7) FIG. 6 is a left side view of the embodiment of the drainage junction shield of FIG. 5.
(8) FIG. 7 is a right side view of the embodiment of the drainage junction shield of FIG. 5.
(9) FIG. 8 is a front view of the embodiment of the drainage junction shield of FIG. 5.
(10) FIG. 9 is a rear view of the embodiment of the drainage junction shield of FIG. 5.
(11) FIG. 10 is a top view of the embodiment of the drainage junction shield of FIG. 5.
(12) FIG. 11 is a bottom view of the embodiment of the drainage junction shield of FIG. 5.
(13) FIG. 12 is an isometric view of the embodiment of the drainage junction shield of FIG. 5, illustrated installed on a soil adjacent to a wall and protecting the intersection of a downspout, adapter, and drainpipe.
(14) FIG. 13 is a rear isometric view of the embodiment of the drainage junction shield installation illustrated in FIG. 12 with the wall removed for visibility.
(15) FIG. 14 is a front subsurface view of the embodiment of the drainage junction shield installation illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13.
(16) FIG. 15 is a side subsurface view of the embodiment of the drainage junction shield installation illustrated in FIG. 12.
(17) FIG. 16 is a top view of the embodiment of the drainage junction shield installation illustrated in FIG. 12.
(18) FIG. 17 is an isometric view of the embodiment of the drainage junction shield of FIG. 5, illustrated installed on a soil adjacent to a wall and protecting the intersection of a downspout, adapter, and drainpipe. In this view, the drainpipe is angled at approximately 45 degrees away from the wall.
(19) FIG. 18 is an isometric view of the embodiment of the drainage junction shield of FIG. 5, illustrated installed on a soil adjacent to a wall and protecting the intersection of a downspout, adapter, and drainpipe. In this view, the drainpipe is angled approximately parallel to the wall.
(20) FIG. 19 is an isometric view of an alternative embodiment of the drainage junction shield, designed for compatibility with a downspout that does not connect to a drainpipe, but for redirection of storm water away from a foundation.
(21) FIG. 20 is an isometric view of the embodiment of FIG. 19 illustrated installed on a soil adjacent to a wall and protecting the downspout.
(22) FIG. 21 is a rear isometric view of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 20 with the wall removed for visibility.
(23) FIG. 22 is an isometric view of an alternative embodiment of the drainage junction shield in a simple three-sided rectilinear form.
(24) FIG. 23 is an isometric view of another alternative embodiment of the drainage junction shield in a four-sided form.
(25) FIG. 24 is a bottom view of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, illustrating the radial distances between the anchor holes and the proximate center of a drainpipe.
(26) FIG. 25 is a bottom view of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 22, illustrating the radial distances between the anchor holes and the proximate center of a drainpipe.
(27) FIG. 26 illustrates a manufacturing pattern for punching and folding a drainage junction shield of the embodiment of FIG. 5.
(28) FIG. 27 illustrates a manufacturing pattern for punching and folding a drainage junction shield of the embodiment of FIG. 22.
(29) FIG. 28 illustrates a manufacturing pattern for punching and folding a drainage junction shield of the embodiment of FIG. 23.
(30) A Brief Description of Additional Drawings new to this disclosure follows.
(31) FIG. 29 is an isometric view of one embodiment of a first half of the post protector of the present disclosure.
(32) FIG. 30 is a front view of the common geometry to both the first half and the second half in the embodiment of the post protector illustrated in FIG. 29.
(33) FIG. 31 is a top view of the first half of the embodiment of post protector illustrated in FIGS. 29 and 30.
(34) FIG. 32 is a bottom view of the first half of the embodiment of the post protector illustrated in FIGS. 29 and 30.
(35) FIG. 33 is a right side view of the first half of the embodiment of the post protector illustrated in FIGS. 29 and 30.
(36) FIG. 34 is a left side view of the embodiment of the second half of the post protector illustrated in FIGS. 29 and 30.
(37) FIG. 35 is an isometric view of the first half and the second half of the mailbox protector shown prior to assembly, in which the first half is positioned on one side of the mailbox post and the second half is positioned on the opposite side of the mailbox post.
(38) FIG. 36 is an isometric view of the first half and the second half of the mailbox protector shown during assembly, in which the first half is aligned against the mailbox post and the second half is elevated for locating against the mailbox post in a position opposite to, and vertically above, the position of the second half.
(39) FIG. 37 is an isometric view illustrating the second half vertically lowered along the mailbox post for engagement of its two latches with the two latches of the first half to complete the assembly of the post protector.
(40) FIG. 38 is a bottom view of the embodiment of the assembled post protector of FIG. 37.
(41) FIG. 39 is an isometric view of another embodiment of the post protector, in which there are no flanges and the post protectors can be stacked for additional protection and a unique aesthetic appearance.
(42) FIG. 40 is an isometric view of the first half of another embodiment of the post protector having fewer base and extension panels, and illustrating various elements of that embodiment.
(43) FIG. 41 is a front view of the first half of the embodiment of the post protector of FIG. 40.
(44) FIG. 42 is a top view of the first half of the post protector of FIG. 40.
(45) FIG. 43 is a bottom view of the first half of the embodiment of the post protector illustrated in FIG. 40.
(46) FIG. 44 is a right side view of the embodiment of the first half of the post protector illustrated in FIG. 40.
(47) FIG. 45 is a left side view of the embodiment of the second half of the post protector illustrated in FIG. 39.
(48) FIG. 46 is an isometric view illustrating the mailbox post assembled, with the latches of the first half and latches of the second half connected.
(49) FIG. 47 illustrates a manufacturing pattern for punching and folding the embodiment of the post protector illustrated in FIG. 36.
(50) FIG. 48 illustrates a manufacturing pattern for punching and folding the embodiment of the post protector illustrated in FIG. 43.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
(51) The following description is presented to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the disclosed device, and is provided in the context of a particular application and its requirements. Various modifications to the disclosed embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosed device. Thus, the disclosed device is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein.
(52) FIGS. 1-4 are photographs of prior art conventional intersections of downspouts and PVC downspout adapters, all of which were photographed at a residential property. FIGS. 1-4 illustrate the significant damage caused by string trimmers to both downspouts and adapters, as well as the disparity in the extension of drainpipes as to the soil level. The photographs illustrate the disruption to the functionality of residential and commercial drainage systems as a result of string trimmer and edger damage. The photographs further illustrate the destructive impact to the aesthetic appearance of residential and commercial drainage systems as a result of string trimmer and edger damage.
(53) FIG. 1 illustrates a downspout 20 severely damaged by a string trimmer to the point of reducing its internal cross-sectional area and fluid carrying capacity above a downspout adapter 10. Such damage increases the probability that downspout 20 will clog with debris and cease to function as designed. FIG. 1 further illustrates damage to downspout adapter 10 caused by the use of string trimmers. The damage impairs the aesthetic value of the residence, and risks damage to the residence from a nonfunctioning gutter system.
(54) FIG. 2 is a second photograph of the prior art. In FIG. 2, drainpipe 4 has been damaged and displaced by a string trimmer to disengage downspout 20 from adapter 10. Adapter 10 is mounted slightly above the soil line so as to be visible. Corrective realignment of either downspout 20 or adapter 10 is difficult. Surface debris may enter drainpipe 4 and drain water will flow externally of drainpipe 4. The damage impairs the aesthetic value of the residence, and risks damage to the foundation and the drainage system. An angled lower portion of downspout 20 would be a visible indicator of misalignment.
(55) FIG. 3 is a third photograph of the prior art. The damage to downspout 20 is clearly visible. In this example, downspout 20 has been separated from adapter 10, allowing surface debris to enter drainpipe 4 and drain water to spread externally of drainpipe 4. The damage impairs the aesthetic value of the residence, and risks damage to the foundation and the drainage system.
(56) FIG. 4 is a fourth photograph of the prior art. FIG. 4 illustrates the variance in height of mounting PVC downspout adapter 10 in relation to a soil surface 2. Drainpipe 4, on top of which downspout adapter 10 is mounted, extends far above soil surface 2. Downspout adapter 10 comprises a cylindrical coupling portion 12 and a rectilinear coupling portion 14 for receiving downspout 20. While the height of this drainpipe is unusually significant, variations in height of one to three inches above the surface are common.
(57) FIG. 5 is an isometric front view of an embodiment of drainage junction shield 100, illustrating various elements of that embodiment. The embodiment illustrated has five sections. Drainage junction shield 100 has a base 110. Base 110 comprises a plurality of base sections including a base right 112, a base right chamfer 114, a base front 116, a base left chamfer 118, and a base left 120 (see FIG. 6).
(58) As best seen in FIG. 11, a base access 122 is formed between a back edge of base right 112 and a back edge of base left 120. Base 100 and base access 122 form a hexagonal base perimeter 126 which defines an adapter chamber 124. Adapter chamber 124 is receivable of downspout adapter 10, which is a sewer and drain connector provided for flow enabled connection between downspout 20 and drainpipe 4.
(59) Referring back to FIG. 5, drainage junction shield 100 has an extension 150. Extension 150 comprises a plurality of extension sections including an extension right 152, an extension right chamfer 154, an extension front 156, an extension left chamfer 158, and an extension left 160 (see FIG. 6).
(60) As seen in FIG. 5, an extension access 162 is formed between a back edge of extension right 152 and a back edge of extension left 160. The uppermost extent of extension 150 and extension access 162 forms a rectangular entry perimeter 168. The volume between extension right 152, extension right chamfer 154, extension front 156, extension left chamfer 158, and extension left 160 defines a downspout chamber 164. Downspout chamber 164 is receivable of downspout 20 for flow enabled connection between adapter 10 and drainpipe 4.
(61) As seen in FIGS. 24 and 25, a flange right 132 extends perpendicularly outward from base right 112. A flange right chamfer 134 extends perpendicularly outward from base right chamfer 114. A flange front 136 extends perpendicularly outward from base front 116. A flange left chamfer 138 extends perpendicularly outward from base left chamfer 118. A flange left 140 extends perpendicularly outward from base left 120.
(62) Flange right 132, flange right chamfer 134, flange front 136, flange left chamfer 138, and flange left 140, each have a plurality of anchor holes 142 for receiving soil pins 144 (see FIG. 14).
(63) FIG. 6 is a left side view of the embodiment of the drainage junction shield 100 of FIG. 5. As seen in FIG. 6, extension left 160 extends above and is contiguous with base left 120. Extension left chamfer 158 extends above and is contiguous with base left chamfer 118. Base left 120 is contiguous with base left chamfer 118. In the embodiment illustrated, decorative element 170 is located on base left 120. Extension left 160 is located in alignment with extension left chamfer 158.
(64) FIG. 7 is a right side view of the embodiment of the drainage junction shield 100 of FIG. 5. As seen in FIG. 7, extension right 152 extends above and is contiguous with base right 112. Extension right chamfer 154 extends above and is contiguous with base right chamfer 114. Base right 112 is contiguous with base right chamfer 114. In the embodiment illustrated, decorative element 170 is located on base right 112. Extension right 152 is located in alignment with extension right chamfer 154.
(65) FIG. 8 is a front view of the embodiment of the drainage junction shield 100 of FIG. 5. Base front 116 is contiguous with base left chamfer 118 and base right chamfer 114. Extension front 156 extends above and is contiguous with base front 116. In the embodiment illustrated, extension front 156 is located in adjacent alignment with extension left chamfer 158 and extension right chamfer 154.
(66) FIG. 9 is a rear view of the embodiment of the drainage junction shield 100 of FIG. 5. As seen in FIG. 9 and also FIG. 11, adapter chamber 124 is the volume within the confines of base 110. As also seen in FIG. 9, downspout chamber 164 is the volume within the confines of extension 150.
(67) FIG. 10 is a top view of the embodiment of the drainage junction shield 100 of FIG. 5. FIG. 10 illustrates entry perimeter 168 of downspout chamber 164. Entry perimeter 168 extends from extension right 152, to extension right chamfer 154, to extension front 156, to extension left chamfer 158, to extension left 160 and across extension access 162. Extension right 152, extension right chamfer 154, extension front 156, extension left chamfer 158, and extension left 160 are inclined inward to form a converging surface structure above and over downspout chamber 164.
(68) FIG. 11 is a bottom view of the embodiment of the drainage junction shield of FIG. 5. FIG. 11 illustrates base perimeter 126 of adapter chamber 124. Base perimeter 126 extends from base right 112 to base right chamfer 114, to base front 116, to base left chamfer 118, to base left 120, and across base access 122.
(69) FIG. 12 is an isometric view of the embodiment of drainage junction shield 100, illustrated installed on a soil surface 2 adjacent to a wall 6 and protecting the intersection of downspout 20, adapter 10, and drainpipe 4. As seen in this view, downspout 20 passes through entry perimeter 168. Downspout 20, adapter junction 10, and drainpipe 4 are no longer visible and are protected from landscape machinery such as string trimmers and edgers. Wall 6 provides a plane of closure across base access 122 and extension access 162. Soil pins 144 extend through anchor holes 142 of flange system 130 (see FIG. 10). As seen below soil surface 2, soil pins 144 are positioned to avoid contact with drainpipe 4.
(70) FIG. 13 is a rear isometric view of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 12 with wall 6 removed for visibility. As seen from this view, downspout 20, adapter junction 10, and drainpipe 4 are no longer visible and are protected from landscape machinery such as string trimmers and edgers. In conventional stormwater assemblies, downspout 20 may be attached to wall 6 and transitions adapter 10, and drainpipe 4 will be located approximate to wall 6. Extension access 162 and base access 122 permit sliding engagement of drainage junction shield 100 into position before inserting soil pins 144 in anchor holes 142.
(71) FIG. 14 is a front subsurface view of the embodiment of the drainage junction shield installation 100 illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13. In FIG. 14, drainpipe 4 is oriented 180 degrees away from the wall. Soil pins 144 are inserted in anchor holes 142 located in flange right 132 and flange left 140 as to avoid conflict with drainpipe 4.
(72) FIG. 15 is a side subsurface view of the embodiment of the drainage junction shield installation 100 illustrated in FIG. 12, illustrating again the absence of conflict between soil pins 144 and drainpipe 4.
(73) FIG. 16 is a top view of the embodiment of the drainage junction shield installation 100 illustrated in FIG. 12. As seen in this view, adapter 10 and downspout 20 are shielded within adapter chamber 124 and downspout chamber 164 of drainage junction shield 100.
(74) FIG. 17 is an isometric view of the embodiment of the drainage junction shield 100 of FIG. 5, illustrated installed on soil surface 2 adjacent to wall 6 and protecting the intersection of downspout 20, adapter 10, and drainpipe 4. In this view, drainpipe 4 is angled at approximately 45 degrees away from wall 6. In this view, soil pins 144 are relocated to anchor holes 142 in alternative flanges such as flange left chamfer 138 and flange front 136 to secure drainage junction shield 100 to soil surface 2.
(75) FIG. 18 is an isometric view of the embodiment of the drainage junction shield 100 of FIG. 5, illustrated installed on soil surface 2 adjacent to wall 6 and protecting the intersection of downspout 20, adapter 10, and drainpipe 4. In this view, drainpipe 4 is angled approximately parallel to wall 6. As with FIG. 17, in this configuration, soil pins 144 may be relocated to anchor holes in alternative flanges to secure drainage junction shield 100 to soil surface 2.
(76) FIG. 19 is an isometric view of an alternative embodiment of the drainage junction shield 100, designed for compatibility with downspout 20 that does not connect to drainpipe 4, but is for redirection of storm water away from wall 6 onto soil surface 2. This permits compatibility of the aesthetic appearance of downspout 20 to drainpipe 4 connections in buildings where some downspouts 20 are connected to drainpipes 4 and others are not. In this embodiment, drainage junction shield 100 includes a drain portal 210 for accommodating a downspout drain 22.
(77) FIG. 20 is an isometric view of the embodiment of FIG. 19 illustrated installed on soil surface 2 adjacent to wall 6 and protecting downspout 20. This embodiment illustrates the advantage of the cooperative configuration between base access 122, extension access 162 and downspout portal 210 in that drainage junction shield 100 may be slid into place against wall 6 without disruption of the assembly of downspout 20 and downspout drain 22.
(78) FIG. 21 is a rear isometric view of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 20 with wall 6 removed for visibility. As seen in this view, the embodiment continues to benefit from the arrangement of soil pins 144 through flange system 130 through anchor holes 142. This permits a similar appearance to this embodiment as to the embodiment in which downspout 20 is not connected to drainpipe 4. While access to anchor holes 142 under flange front 136 may be restricted by downspout drain 22, there are several alternative anchor holes 142 in flange system 130 accessible for securing drainage junction shield 100 to soil surface 2.
(79) FIG. 22 is an isometric view of an alternative embodiment for a drainage junction shield 200 having three sides. This embodiment lacks certain benefits of the embodiment of drainage junction shield 100 shown in FIG. 5, such as superior aesthetic value, ability to enclose the round geometry of a conventional drainpipe 4 in closer proximity, and ability to better deflect, without rupturing, rotating strings of a string trimmer. However, drainage junction shield 200 may be less expensive to manufacture, depending on the method used.
(80) In this embodiment, base right 112 is contiguous with base front 116 and extension right 152. Similarly, base left 120 is contiguous with base front 116 and extension left 160. Extension front 156 is located in adjacent alignment with extension right 152 and extension left 160.
(81) Extension right 152, extension front 156 and extension left 160 are inclined inwards to form rectangular entry perimeter 168 for receiving downspout 20. The convergence of base right 112, base front 116, and base left 120 with extension right 152, extension front 156 and extension left 160, defines rectangular base perimeter 126 that outlines adapter chamber 124, which is sufficiently large to receive adapter 10 and drainpipe 4. Base perimeter 126 is larger than entry perimeter 168.
(82) Flanges 130 extend perpendicularly outward from base right 112, base front 116, and base left 120. Anchor holes 142 are provided on flanges 130 for receiving soil pins 144.
(83) FIG. 23 is an isometric view of another alternative embodiment of the drainage junction shield 300 in a four-sided form. In each embodiment 100, 200, and 300, placement of drainage junction shield (100, 200, 300) against wall 6 creates a complete enclosure of adapter chamber 124 and downspout chamber 164. This occurs because wall 6 provides an additional side by covering base access 122 and extension access 162.
(84) In drainage junction shield 300, base right 112 is contiguous with base right chamfer 114, base left chamfer 118, and base left 120. Base right 112 is contiguous with extension right 152. Base right chamfer 114 is contiguous with extension right chamfer 154. Base left chamfer 118 is contiguous with extension left chamfer 158. Base left 120 is contiguous with the extension left 160.
(85) Extension right 152, extension right chamfer 154, extension left chamfer 158 and extension left 160 are inclined inwards to form rectangular entry perimeter 168 for receiving downspout 20. The convergence of base right 112, base right chamfer 114, base left chamfer 118, and base left 120 with extension right 152, extension right chamfer 154, extension left chamfer 158 and extension left 160, defines a pentagonal base perimeter 126 that outlines adapter chamber 124, which is sufficiently large to receive adapter 10 and drainpipe 4. Base perimeter 126 is larger than entry perimeter 168.
(86) Flanges 130 extend perpendicularly outward from base right 112, base right chamfer 114, base left chamfer 118, and base left 120. Anchor holes 142 are provided on flanges 130 for receiving soil pins 144.
(87) It is readily understandable that base right 112 and extension right 152 may be a unitary structure in this embodiment, along with base left 120 and extension left 160. Thus, with no bend between the base 110 and extension 150 elements. In that configuration, only base front 116 is inwardly inclined.
(88) FIG. 24 is a bottom view of the embodiment of drainage junction shield 100 illustrated in FIG. 5, illustrating the various radial distances between anchor holes 142 and the proximate center of drainpipe 4. These distances were measured in one application of the embodiment and are provided in Table 1 below:
(89) TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 Line Inches 180 (2) 3.92 182 (2) 3.25 184 (2) 3.40 186 (2) 3.38 188 (2) 3.41 190 3.49
(90) The data set of 11 points from Table 1 produces an average of 3.47, a standard deviation of 0.23 and the variance0.05. This data set represents a close pattern of distances between a center point of drainpipe 4 and locations for placement soil pins 144. This advantageously provides even force resistance to displacement of drainage junction shield 100 in response to impact from string trimmers and other items associated with work and play in a landscape environment.
(91) FIG. 25 is a bottom view of the embodiment of drainage junction shield 200 illustrated in FIG. 22, illustrating the various radial distances between anchor holes 142 and the proximate center of drainpipe 4. These distances were measured in one application of the embodiment and are provided in Table 2 below:
(92) TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 Line Inches 280 (2) 3.78 282 (2) 3.28 284 (2) 3.78 286 (2) 3.66 288 2.71
(93) The data set of 9 points from Table 2 produces an average of 3.78, a standard deviation of 37 and the variance0.14. This data set represents a less close and less even pattern of distances between a center point of drainpipe 4 and locations for placement soil pins 144. This pattern thus provides less even force resistance to displacement of drainage junction shield 200 in response to impact from string trimmers and other items associated with work and play in a landscape environment.
(94) FIG. 26 illustrates an embodiment for a method for manufacturing the 5-sided drainage junction shield 100 as illustrated in FIG. 5. In this method, a sheet metal template is provided by stamping or metal cutting process, and then folded to produce the 3-dimensional drainage junction shield 100. The metal template is preferably between 12 and 16 gauge steel. The method disclosed is advantageous because it does not require welding or fastening. The method comprises the steps of: a) providing a flat sheet metal template for drainage junction shield 100 similar to the example illustrated in FIG. 26; b) bend forming at 192 flanges 130 outward about 90 degrees to the template plane; c) bend forming at 194 extension left chamfer 158 and extension right chamfer 154 inward between 20 and 24 degrees to the template plane; d) bend forming at 193 extension left 160 and extension right 152 inward between 7 and 11 degrees to the template plane; e) bend forming at 195 extension front 156 inward between 40 and 44 degrees to the template plane; f) bend forming at 196 base left chamfer 118 and the base right chamfer 114 inward between 37 and 41 degrees to the template plane; and, g) bend forming at 197 base left 120 and base right 112 inward between 49 and 53 degrees to the template plane.
(95) FIG. 27 illustrates a manufacturing pattern for folding 3-sided drainage junction shield 200 as illustrated in FIG. 22. In this method, a sheet metal template is provided by stamping or metal cutting process, and then folded to produce the 3-dimensional drainage junction shield 200. The metal template is preferably between 12 and 16 gauge steel. The method disclosed is advantageous because it does not require welding or fastening. The method comprises the steps of: a) providing a flat sheet metal template for drainage junction shield 200 similar to the example illustrated in FIG. 27; b) bend forming at 292 flanges 130 outward between 88 and 92 degrees to the template plane; c) bend forming at 293 extension left 160 and extension right 152 inward between 13 and 17 degrees to the template plane; d) bend forming at 294 extension front 156 inward between 13 and 17 degrees to the template plane; and, e) bend forming at 295 base left 120 and base right 112 inward between 88 and 92 degrees to the template plane.
(96) FIG. 28 illustrates a manufacturing pattern for folding a 4-sided drainage junction shield 300 as illustrated in FIG. 23. In this method, a sheet metal template is provided by stamping or metal cutting process, and then folded to produce the 3-dimensional drainage junction shield 300. The metal template is preferably between 12 and 16 gauge steel. The method disclosed is advantageous because it does not require welding or fastening. The method comprises the steps of: a) providing a flat sheet metal template for drainage junction shield 300 similar to the example illustrated in FIG. 28; b) bend forming at 392 flanges 130 outward about 90 degrees to the template plane; c) bend forming at 393 extension left 160 and extension right 152 inward between 8 and 12 degrees to the template plane; d) bend forming at 394 extension left chamfer 158 and extension right chamfer 154 inward between 28 and 32 degrees to the template plane; e) bend forming at 395 base left chamfer 118 and base right chamfer 114 inward between 34 and 38 degrees to the template plane; and, f) bend forming at 396 base left 120 and base right 112 inward between 70 and 74 degrees to the template plane.
(97) Drainage junction shields 100, 200, and 300 are impervious to deformation from engagement with a string trimmer, and thus protect the integrity of the connections between downspout 20, downspout adapter 10, and drainpipe 4.
(98) The following Detailed Description relates to the new disclosure of the present application.
(99) FIG. 29 is an isometric view of one embodiment of a first half 402 of a post protector 400 (see FIG. 37) of the present disclosure, illustrating various elements of that embodiment. Post protector 400 is comprised of two halves; first half 402 and a second half 404 (FIG. 34). Except for the orientation of their latches (410 and 420, respectively), first half 402 and second half 404 are identical in structure. Therefore, the following description regarding FIG. 29 as to first half 402 applies equally to the description of second half 404.
(100) Referring to FIG. 29, the embodiment illustrates first half 402 having a base 110. Base 110 comprises a plurality of base panels including a base right 112, a base right chamfer 114, a base front 116, a base left chamfer 118, and a base left 120.
(101) First half 402 and second half 404 of post protector 400 each has an extension 150. Extension 150 comprises a plurality of extension panels including an extension right 152, an extension right chamfer 154, an extension front 156, an extension left chamfer 158, and an extension left 160.
(102) As seen in FIG. 29, the apex, or uppermost extents of extension right 150, extension front 156, and extension left 160 circumscribe three sides of a rectangular post perimeter 172. Post perimeter 172 is configured in size to receive one-half of the cross-section of a mailbox post 8 (see FIG. 36).
(103) Optional to this embodiment and others are flanges extending from base 110. As seen in FIG. 29, a flange right 132 extends perpendicularly outward from base right 112. A flange right chamfer 134 extends perpendicularly outward from base right chamfer 114. A flange front 136 extends perpendicularly outward from base front 116. A flange left chamfer 138 extends perpendicularly outward from base left chamfer 118. A flange left 140 extends perpendicularly outward from base left 120.
(104) Flange right 132, flange right chamfer 134, flange front 136, flange left chamfer 138, and flange left 140, each have one or more anchor holes 142 for receiving soil pins 144 to further secure post protector 400 to the soil from which the mailbox post 8 extends. This optional flanged base 110 embodiment may be added to or omitted to embodiments of post protector 400, as disclosed herein below.
(105) FIG. 30 is a front view of the geometry common to both first half 402 and second half 404 of the embodiment of the post protector 400 of FIG. 29. Extension right 152 extends above and is contiguous with base right 112. Extension right chamfer 154 extends above and is contiguous with base right chamfer 114. Extension front 156 extends above and is contiguous with base front 116. Extension left chamfer 158 extends above and is contiguous with base left chamfer 118. Extension left 160 extends above and is contiguous with base left 120.
(106) FIG. 31 is a top view of first half 402 of the embodiment of post protector 400 illustrated in FIGS. 29 and 30. FIG. 31 illustrates post perimeter 172 extending between extension right 152, extension front 156, and extension left 160. As also seen in FIGS. 29 and 31, extension right 152, extension right chamfer 154, extension front 156, extension left chamfer 158, and extension left 160 are inclined inward to form the converging structure of extension 150 that defines post perimeter 172 at its apex. Latch 410 extends outward from each of base right 112 and base left 120.
(107) FIG. 32 is a bottom view of first half 402 of the embodiment of post protector 400 illustrated in FIGS. 29 and 30. As seen in FIG. 32, a base perimeter 174 in the form of an irregular hexagon is defined by base right 112, base right chamfer 114, base front 116, base left chamfer 118, base left 120, and distal ends of base right 112 and base left 120. A chamber 176 is defined by the difference between base perimeter 174 and post perimeter 172. Chamber 176 is illustrated as a cross-hatched area in FIG. 32. Chamber 176 provides an interior location between post 8 and post protector 400 for latches 410 and 420 to reside connected, and substantially concealed from view from the exterior of installed post protector 400.
(108) FIG. 33 is a right side view of first half 402 of the embodiment of post protector 400 illustrated in FIGS. 29 and 30. As seen in FIG. 33, extension right 152 extends above and is contiguous with base right 112. Extension right chamfer 154 extends above and is contiguous with base right chamfer 114. Extension front 156 extends above and is contiguous with base front 116. As with second half 404 as seen in FIG. 34, first half 402 has an extension left chamfer 158 that extends above and is contiguous with base left chamfer 118, and an extension left 160 that extends above and is contiguous with base left 120.
(109) Latch 410 of first half 402 extends outward from each of base right 112 and base left 120 (see FIG. 31). In the embodiment illustrated, latch 410 comprises a transition 412 extending from the lower end of each of base right 112 and base left 120. As best seen in FIG. 31, transitions 412 angle or curve inward from the outside of base right 112 and base left 120.
(110) A tab 414 extends from each transition 412, in a direction approximately parallel to base right 112 and base left 120. A slot 416 is formed above each transition 412, between base right 112 and its connected tab 414, and between base left 120 and its connected tab 414. Slots 416 are at least equal in length to the length of transitions 412. The length of slot 416 plus the length of the transition 412 equals the length of tab 414.
(111) FIG. 34 is a left side view of the embodiment of second half 404 of the post protector 400 as illustrated in FIGS. 29 and 30. As seen in FIG. 34, extension left 160 extends above and is contiguous with base left 120. Extension left chamfer 158 extends above and is contiguous with base left chamfer 118. Extension front 156 extends above and is contiguous with base front 116. As seen in FIG. 35, second half 404 has an extension right chamfer 154 that extends above and is contiguous with base right chamfer 114, and an extension right 152 that extends above and is contiguous with base right 112.
(112) Latch 420 of second half 404 extends outward from each of base left 120 and base right 112 (see FIG. 35). In the embodiment illustrated, latch 410 comprises a transition 422 extending from each of base left 120 and base right 112. As with transitions 412 of first half 402 as shown in FIG. 42, transitions 422 of second half 404 angle or curve inward from the outside of base left 120 and base right 112.
(113) A tab 424 extends from each transition 422, in a direction approximately parallel to base left 120 and base right 112. A slot 426 is formed below each transition 422, between base left 120 and its connected tab 424, and between base right 112 and its connected tab 424. Slots 426 are at least equal in length to the length of transitions 422. The length of slot 426 plus the length of the transition 422 equals the length of tab 424.
(114) FIGS. 35-37 illustrate the assembly of post protector 400 onto mailbox post 8. FIG. 35 is an isometric view of first half 402 and second half 404 of mailbox protector 400 shown prior to assembly, in which first half 402 is positioned on one side of mailbox post 8 and second half 404 is positioned on the opposite side of mailbox post 8.
(115) FIG. 36 is an isometric view of first half 402 and second half 404 of mailbox protector 400 illustrated during assembly, in which first half 402 is aligned against mailbox post 8 and second half 404 is elevated for alignment against mailbox post 8 in a position opposite and vertically above the position of second half 404. In this position, slots 426 of latches 420 are above and aligned with slots 416 of latches 410.
(116) FIG. 37 is an isometric view illustrating second half 404 vertically lowered along mailbox post 8 for engagement of its two latches 420 with the two latches 410 of first half 402 to complete the assembly of post protector 400. By their connection, slots 416 of latches 410 are occupied by transitions 422 of latches 420. Reciprocally, slots 426 of latches 420 are occupied by transitions 412 of latches 410. Tabs 414 of latches 410 are positioned adjacent to the interior of base right 112 and base left 120 of second half 404. Reciprocally, tabs 424 of latches 420 are positioned adjacent to the interior of base right 112 and base left 120 of first half 402.
(117) FIG. 38 is a bottom view illustrating first half 402 and second half 404 connected. Post perimeter 172 identifies the location of post 8 (removed from this view). From this interior view, it is seen that extension panels 152, 154, 156, 158, and 160 extend outward from post perimeter 172. Extension right 152 panels extend to base right 112 panels. Extension left 160 panels extend to base left 120 panels. Transitions 412 of first half 402 and transitions 422 of second half 404 engage at the junction of base right 112 and base left 120 of first half 402 with base left 120 and base right 112, respectably, of second half 404.
(118) By their connection, tabs 414 of latches 410 are positioned adjacent to the interior of base right 112 and base left 120 of second half 404. Reciprocally, tabs 424 of latches 420 are positioned adjacent to the interior of base right 112 and base left 120 of first half 402.
(119) In this configuration, tabs 414 and 424 are located in interior chamber 176 spaces of post protector 400 (see FIG. 32). This embodiment provides the benefit of a stabilized connected assembly by proximate adjacency of tabs 414 and 424 with base right 112 and base left 120. This embodiment provides the further benefit of providing a post protector 400 that substantially conceals and protects its latched connections (410/420) (see FIGS. 33-34) within its interior chambers 176 (see FIG. 32) to provide a unique and improved aesthetic (FIG. 37). This embodiment provides the further benefit of being easily disassembled, without the use of tools.
(120) This embodiment provides the further benefit of enabling manufacture of first half 402 and second half 404 without the requirement of metal fusion, such as welding, brazing, or soldering, and without the need for faster connections. This embodiment provides the further benefit of assembly without tools or fasteners.
(121) If the embodiment includes flanges 130, soil pins may optionally be inserted into optional anchor holes 142 to further increase the stability of post protector 400 in position against mailbox post 8.
(122) An advantage of the disclosed structure is that the incline of the panels of extension 150 are independently adjustable by bending to conform to the perimeter of post 8.
(123) FIG. 39 illustrates the option of another embodiment to stack post protectors 400 on mailbox post 8 for additional protection and aesthetic differentiation. In this embodiment of post protector 400, there are no flanges 132-140, at least on the upper units.
(124) FIG. 40 is an isometric view of a first half 502 of another embodiment of the post protector 500 (see FIG. 46) of the present disclosure, illustrating various elements of that embodiment. Post protector 500 is comprised of two halves; a first half 502 and a second half 504 (see FIGS. 44 and 45). Except for the orientation of their latches (410 and 420, respectively), first half 502 and second half 504 are identical in structure. Therefore, the following description regarding FIG. 40 as to first half 502 applies equally to the description of second half 504.
(125) Referring to FIG. 40, first half 502 and second half 504 of post protector 500 each has a base 110. Base 110 comprises a plurality of base panels including a base right 112, a base front 116, and a base left 120.
(126) First half 502 and second half 504 of post protector 500 each has an extension 150. Extension 150 comprises a plurality of extension panels including an extension right 152, an extension front 156, and an extension left 160.
(127) As seen in FIG. 40, the apex, or uppermost extents of extension right 150, extension front 156, and extension left 160 circumscribe three sides of a rectangular post perimeter 172. Post perimeter 172 is configured in size to receive one-half of the cross-section of a mailbox post 8. Optional to this embodiment and others are flanges extending from base 110, as shown in FIG. 29 and described above.
(128) FIG. 41 is a front view of the geometry common to both first half 402 and second half 404 of the embodiment of post protector 500 of FIG. 40. Extension right 152 extends above and is contiguous with base right 112. Extension front 156 extends above and is contiguous with base front 116. Extension left 160 extends above and is contiguous with base left 120.
(129) FIG. 42 is a top view of first half 502 of post protector 500 illustrated in FIGS. 40 and 41. FIG. 42 illustrates post perimeter 172 extending between extension right 152, extension front 156, and extension left 160. As also seen in FIGS. 40 and 41, extension right 152, extension front 156, and extension left 160 are inclined inward to form the converging structure of extension 150 that defines post perimeter 172 at its apex. Latch 410 extends outward from each of base right 112 and base left 120.
(130) FIG. 43 is a bottom view of first half 502 of the embodiment of post protector 500 illustrated in FIG. 40. As seen in FIG. 43, a base perimeter 174 in the form of a rectangle is defined by base right 112, base front 116, and base left 120, and distal ends of base right 112 and base left 120. A chamber 176 is defined by the difference between base perimeter 174 and post perimeter 172. Chamber 176 is illustrated as a cross-hatched area in FIG. 32. Chamber 176 provides an interior location between post 8 and post protector 500 for latches 410 and 420 to reside connected, and substantially concealed from view from the exterior of installed post protector 500.
(131) FIG. 44 is a right side view of first half 502 of the embodiment of post protector 500 disclosed in FIGS. 40 and 41. As seen in FIG. 44, extension right 152 extends above and is contiguous with base right 112. Extension front 156 extends above and is contiguous with base front 116. As with second half 504 as seen in FIG. 45, first half 502 has an extension left 160 extends above and is contiguous with base left 120.
(132) Latch 410 of first half 502 extends outward from each of base left 120 and base right 112 (see FIG. 42). In the embodiment illustrated, latch 410 comprises a transition 412 extending from each of base right 112 and base left 120. As best seen in FIG. 42, transitions 412 angle or curve inward from the outside of base right 112 and base left 120.
(133) A tab 414 extends from each transition 412, in a direction approximately parallel to base right 112 and base left 120. A slot 416 is formed above each transition 412, between base right 112 and its connected tab 414, and between base left 120 and its connected tab 424. Slots 416 are at least equal in length to the length of transitions 412. The length of slot 416 plus the length of the transition 412 equals the length of tab 414.
(134) FIG. 45 is a left side view of the embodiment of second half 504 of the post protector 500 illustrated in FIGS. 40 and 41. As seen in FIG. 45, extension left 160 extends above and is contiguous with base left 120. Extension front 156 extends above and is contiguous with base front 116. As seen in FIG. 41, second half 504 has an extension right 152 that extends above and is contiguous with base right 112.
(135) As with first half 502 as shown in FIG. 44, latch 420 of second half 504 extends outward from each of base left 120 and base right 112. In the embodiment illustrated, latch 420 comprises a transition 422 extending from each of base left 120 and base right 112. As with transitions 412 of first half 502 as shown in FIG. 44, transitions 422 of second half 504 angle or curve inward from the outside of base left 120 and base right 112.
(136) On second half 504, a tab 424 extends from each transition 422 in a direction approximately parallel to base left 120 and base right 112. A slot 426 is formed below each transition 422 between base left 120 and its connected tab 424, and between base right 112 and its connected tab 424. Slots 426 are at least equal in length to the length of transitions 422. The length of slot 426 plus the length of the transition 422 equals the length of tab 424.
(137) FIG. 46 is an isometric view illustrating second half 504 vertically lowered along mailbox post 8 for engagement of its two latches 420 with the two latches 410 of first half 502 to complete the assembly of post protector 500. By their connection, slots 416 of latches 410 are occupied by transitions 422 of latches 420. Reciprocally, slots 426 of latches 420 are occupied by transitions 412 of latches 410. Tabs 414 of latches 410 are positioned adjacent to the interior of base left 120 and base right 112 of second half 504. Reciprocally, tabs 424 of latches 420 are positioned adjacent to the interior of base left 120 and base right 112 of first half 502.
(138) In this configuration, tabs 414 and 424 are located in interior chamber 176 of post protector 500. This connection provides the benefit of assembly without tools or fasteners. This connection provides the further benefit of a stabilized assembly by proximate adjacency of tabs 414 and 424 with base right 112 and base left 120. This connection provides the further benefit of providing a post protector 500 that substantially conceals its latched connections (410/420) within its interior chambers 176 to provide a unique and improved aesthetic. This connection provides the further benefit of being easily disassembled, without the use of tools. This connection provides the further benefit of providing a unique and improved aesthetic appearance.
(139) If the embodiment includes flanges 130, soil pins may optionally be inserted into optional anchor holes 142 to further increase the stability of post protector 500 in position against mailbox post 8.
(140) FIG. 39 is an isometric view of the embodiment of post protector 400, in which there are no flanges 132-140. FIG. 39 illustrates the option that also extends to this embodiment, by which post protectors 500 may be stacked on mailbox post 8 for additional protection and aesthetic differentiation.
(141) An advantage of the disclosed structure is that the incline of the panels of extension 150 are independently adjustable by bending to conform to the perimeter of post 8.
(142) FIG. 47 illustrates a manufacturing pattern for punching and folding the embodiment of first half 402 of post protector 400 fixed illustrated in FIG. 29. In this method, a sheet metal template is provided by stamping or a metal cutting process, and then folded to produce the 3-dimensional post protector 400. The metal template is preferably between 12 and 16 gauge steel. The method disclosed is advantageous because it does not require welding or fastening. The method comprises the steps of: a) providing a flat sheet metal template for post protector 400 similar to the example illustrated in FIG. 47; b) bend forming at 493 extension left 160 and extension right 152 inward between 18 and 23 degrees to the template plane; c) bend forming at 494 extension left chamfer 158 and extension right chamfer 154 inward between 15 and 19 degrees to the template plane; d) bend forming at 495 extension front 156 inward between 19 and 24 degrees to the template plane; e) bend forming at 497 base left 120 and base right 112 inward in relation to base left chamfer 118 and base right chamfer 114 between 43 and 47 degrees to the template plane; f) bend forming at 496 base left chamfer 118 and the base right chamfer 114 inward in relation to base front 116 between 43 and 46 degrees to the template plane; and, g) bend forming at 482 inward and bend forming at 484 outward in equal amounts such that tabs 414 are substantially parallel to base right 112 and base left 120.
(143) If the embodiment of FIG. 47 (or of FIG. 48) includes flanges 130 extending from base 110, then the method for forming the first half of post protector 400 includes the further step of: h) bend forming at 492 flanges 130 outward between 88 and 92 degrees to the template plane.
(144) FIG. 48 illustrates a manufacturing pattern for punching and folding the embodiment of the first half 402 of post protector 500 illustrated in FIG. 40. In this method, a sheet metal template is provided by stamping or a metal cutting process, and then folded to produce the 3-dimensional post protector 500. The metal template is preferably between 12 and 16 gauge steel. The method disclosed is advantageous because it does not require welding or fastening. The method comprises the steps of: a) providing a flat sheet metal template for post protector 500 similar to the example illustrated in FIG. 48; b) bend forming at 593 extension left 160 and extension right 152 inward between 17 and 21 degrees to the template plane; c) bend forming at 595 extension front 156 inward between 20 and 25 degrees to the template plane; d) bend forming at 596 base left 120 and base right 112 inward in relation to base front 116 between 88 and 92 degrees to the template plane; and, e) bend forming 482 inward and bend forming 484 outward in equal amounts such that tabs 414 are substantially parallel to base right 112 and base left 120.
(145) While this invention has been described in connection with a limited number of embodiments, it is not intended to limit the scope of the disclosed device to the particular form set forth, but, on the contrary, is intended to cover such alternatives, modifications and equivalents as may be included within the spirit and scope of disclosed device as defined by the appended claims.
