MODULAR FENCE SYSTEM

Abstract

A modular fence system having a plurality of base portions configured for securing to the ground surface, a first plurality of coupler elements for coupling to the plurality of base portions, a plurality of vertical rail elements each having a first end and a second end, wherein the first ends of the plurality of vertical rail elements are configured for coupling to the first plurality of coupler elements, a second plurality of coupler elements for coupling to the second end of the plurality of vertical rail elements, a first horizontal rail element configured for coupling to the first plurality of coupler elements, a second horizontal rail element configured for coupling to the second plurality of coupler elements, and an infill section sized and configured for coupling to and seating between the plurality of vertical rail elements and the first and second horizontal rail elements, when assembled.

Claims

1. A modular fence system for coupling to a ground surface, comprising a plurality of base portions configured for securing to the ground surface, a first plurality of coupler elements for coupling to the plurality of base portions, a plurality of vertical rail elements each having a first end and a second end, wherein the first ends of the plurality of vertical rail elements are configured for coupling to the first plurality of coupler elements, a second plurality of coupler elements for coupling to the second end of the plurality of vertical rail elements, a first horizontal rail element configured for coupling to the first plurality of coupler elements, a second horizontal rail element configured for coupling to the second plurality of coupler elements, and an infill section sized and configured for coupling to and seating between the plurality of vertical rail elements and the first and second horizontal rail elements, when assembled.

2. The modular fence system of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of base portions comprises a footer portion having a plurality of fastener receiving apertures formed therein for coupling to the ground surface and a connection portion outwardly extending from the footer portion that is sized and configured for seating one of the first plurality of coupler elements.

3. The modular fence system of claim 2, wherein the connection portion comprises an inner central extension portion that is coupled to an outer central extension portion.

4. The modular fence system of claim 3, wherein each of the first plurality of coupler elements comprises a main body having a central support portion having a central chamber formed therein, wherein the central chamber is sized and dimensioned to seat the connection portion of the base portion, and a plurality of rail coupler elements for coupling to the first horizontal rail element.

5. The modular fence system of claim 4, wherein the inner central extension portion of the connection portion is sized and configured for seating within the central chamber.

6. The modular fence system of claim 5, wherein the plurality of rail coupler elements are integrally formed with the central support portion.

7. The modular fence system of claim 5, wherein the plurality of rail coupler elements are coupled to a central rail coupler element which is configured to seat over the central support portion.

8. The modular fence system of claim 5, wherein each of the plurality of vertical rail elements has an elongated main body that extends along a longitudinal axis and has a receiving element formed on one or more sides of the elongated main body that are sized and configured for receiving a panel connection element.

9. The modular fence system of claim 8, wherein the receiving element includes a pair of opposed capture elements that are configured for seating and retaining the panel connection element.

10. The modular fence system of claim 8, further comprising a first receiving element formed on a first side of the main body of the vertical rail element and a second receiving element formed on a second side of the main body of the vertical rail element.

11. The modular fence system of claim 10, wherein the first side and the second side are on opposed sides of the main body of the vertical rail element.

12. The modular fence system of claim 9, wherein the pair of opposed capture elements are separated from each other to form a capture space therebetween, and wherein the panel connection element has a main body having a first body portion and a second body portion having a slot formed therein, wherein the first body portion has a shape that is complementary to a shape of the capture space.

13. The modular fence system of claim 12, wherein the slot of the second body portion is sized and configured to seat an edge portion of the infill section, wherein the panel connection elements couple the infill section to the vertical rail elements.

14. The modular fence system of claim 8, wherein each of the first and second horizontal rail elements comprises an elongated main body that has a panel receiving element formed on one or more sides of the main body, wherein the panel receiving element has a pair of opposed panel capture elements to form a panel receiving space, and wherein the panel receiving space is complementary in shape to an edge portion of the infill section.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] These and other features and advantages of the present invention will be more fully understood by reference to the following detailed description in conjunction with the attached drawings in which like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout the different views. The drawings illustrate principals of the invention and, although not to scale, show relative dimensions.

[0011] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an assembly section of the modular fence system according to the teachings of the present invention.

[0012] FIG. 2A is a bottom side perspective view of the modular fence system of FIG. 1 according to the teachings of the present invention.

[0013] FIG. 2B is a perspective view of a bottom corner section of the modular fence system of FIG. 1 according to the teachings of the present invention.

[0014] FIG. 2C is a perspective view of a top corner section of the modular fence system of FIG. 1 according to the teachings of the present invention.

[0015] FIG. 3 is an exploded unassembled view of the modular fence system of FIG. 1 according to the teachings of the present invention.

[0016] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the base portion of the modular fence system of FIG. 1 according to the teachings of the present invention.

[0017] FIG. 5A is a perspective of one embodiment of the coupler element of the modular fence system of FIG. 1 according to the teachings of the present invention.

[0018] FIG. 5B is a perspective view of another embodiment of the coupler element of the modular fence system of FIG. 1 according to the teachings of the present invention.

[0019] FIG. 6A is a perspective view of one embodiment of the vertical rail element of the modular fence system of FIG. 1 according to the teachings of the present invention.

[0020] FIG. 6B is a perspective view of another embodiment of the vertical rail element of the modular fence system of FIG. 1 according to the teachings of the present invention.

[0021] FIG. 6C is a cross-sectional view of the vertical rail element of FIG. 6A according to the teachings of the present invention.

[0022] FIG. 6D is a cross-sectional view of the vertical rail element of FIG. 6B according to the teachings of the present invention.

[0023] FIG. 7A is a perspective view of the horizontal rail element of the modular fence system of FIG. 1 according to the teachings of the present invention.

[0024] FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional view of the horizontal rail element of FIG. 7A according to the teachings of the present invention.

[0025] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a guide element of the modular fence system of FIG. 1 according to the teachings of the present invention.

[0026] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an end cap of the modular fence system of FIG. 1 according to the teachings of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0027] The modular fence system of the present invention is shown for example in FIGS. 1-9. With reference to FIGS. 1-3, the illustrated modular fence system 10 can be sized and configured to offer homeowners a versatile and easily adjustable barrier that can be customized and modified without dismantling the entire fence system. The modular fence system 10 provides security and aesthetic appeal while allowing for the removal and replacement of infill sections 80 to prevent damage during extreme weather events. The modular fence system 10 can include a pair of opposed vertical rail elements 30 and a pair of opposed horizontal rail elements 50 that are connected by corner coupler elements 70 to form a sturdy frame. The corner couplers thus connect to each end of the vertical rail elements 30 and to each end of the horizontal rail elements. The vertical and horizontal rail elements can include a capturing mechanism that captures and retains an infill section 80, such as a panel. The vertical rail elements 30 can either be installed directly into the ground or can be seated over and coupled to a base portion 20. The vertical rail elements 30 can be placed at intervals around a perimeter of a desired location and can serve as the main support elements of the modular fence system 10. The horizontal rail elements 50 extend along the top and bottom of the infill sections and hence the system, securing them within the frame. The modular design of the fence system enables the infill section 80 to be slidingly removed from the vertical rail elements 50, thereby offering a practical and efficient solution for property owners to adapt their fences to various conditions and design preferences. The modular fence system 10 illustrates a single section of the fence system. Multiple sections are connected together to form a comprehensive modular fence system that offers enhanced flexibility and resilience.

[0028] With reference to FIGS. 3-4, the illustrated section of the modular fence system 10 includes a pair of base portions 20. The illustrated base portion 20 has a main body 22 having a footer section or portion 24 and a vertically extending connection portion 26. The illustrated footer portion 24 can include one or more openings 28 that are sized and configured for receiving a fastener element (not shown) to secure the base portion 20 to a desired substrate, such as the ground. The illustrated connection portion 26 extends outwardly from the footer section 24 and is sized and configured for seating within the coupler element 70. The connection portion 26 can include an optional inner central extension portion 26A that is integral with or seats within an outer central extension portion 26B. According to another embodiment, the connection portion can have a single extension portion. The connection portion 26 can optionally include one or more openings 29 that are sized and dimensioned for receiving a fastener so as to secure the corner coupler element 70 to the base portion 20.

[0029] With reference to FIGS. 3, 5A, and 5B, the illustrated coupler elements 70 can be coupled to the base portion 20 so as to enable the mounting of the vertical rail elements 30 and the horizontal rail elements 50. The type of coupler element 70 employed can depend upon the purpose and location of the fence section relative to other sections of the modular fence system 10. For example, if the fence section is being configured and placed in a linear run of fence sections, then the coupler element 70B can be employed (FIG. 5B), and if the fence section is located at a corner of the modular fence system 10, then the coupler element 70A can be employed. The coupler element 70A can thus function as a corner coupler element. The illustrated coupler elements 70A and 70B can include a main body that has a central hollow portion 72 having a chamber or cavity 72A formed therein. The central chamber 72A can be sized and dimensioned to seat the central extension portion 26A of the base portion 20 and preferably a portion of a vertical rail element 30. The corner couplers 70A and 70B can also include one or more rail coupler elements for coupling one or more horizontal rail elements 50 thereto. According to one embodiment, the coupler elements 70A and 70B include a pair of rail coupler elements. The pair of coupler elements can include a first rail coupler element 74 that has a cavity 74A formed therein and a second rail coupler element 76 that has a cavity 76A formed therein. The rail coupler elements 74, 76 can be integrally formed with the central portion 72 or can be separate elements that are coupled to the central portion 72. According to one embodiment, the rail coupler elements 74 and 76 are coupled to a central rail coupler element or portion 78 that is coupled to or integrally formed with the rail coupler elements 74, 76 and which seats over the central portion 72. According to one embodiment, the rail coupler elements can be disposed 180 degrees apart, or on opposed sides of the central portion 72, so as to connect horizontal rail elements 50 to form a linear run of fence sections, as shown in FIG. 5B. Alternatively, the rail coupler elements 74, 76 can be disposed 90 degrees apart, or on adjacent sides of the central portion 72, so as to form a corner coupler element to enable adjacent fence sections to be oriented at right angles relative to each other. According to another embodiment, the cavities 74A and 76A can communicate with the chamber 72A or can be isolated from each other.

[0030] With reference to FIGS. 1 and 6A-6D, the illustrated vertical rail element 30 can be coupled to the base portion 20 by seating over the inner connection portion 26A of the base portion or seating within the central hollow portion 72 of the coupler element 70. The illustrated vertical rail element 30 has an elongated main body 32 that extends along a longitudinal axis 34. The elongated main body 32 can be hollow and hence form a chamber 36. The main body 32 can also have associated therewith a receiving element 38 formed on one or more sides of the main body 32 that are sized and configured for receiving one or more guide or panel connection elements 90. The receiving elements 38 can have any selected size, shape or configuration, and according to one embodiment, can include a pair of opposed capture elements 40A, 40B for capturing, seating and retaining the panel connection element 90, and hence the infill section. The illustrated capture elements 40A, 40B can be integrally formed with the main body 32 or can be separate elements that are attached or affixed to the main body 32. The receiving elements 38 can be spaced apart a selected distance to form a capture space 42 therebetween. The capture space 42 can have a selected shape or configuration, and can have a shape that is optionally complementary to the shape of either an edge of the infill panel section 80 or the panel connection elements 90. According to one embodiment, the receiving elements 38 can be disposed 180 degrees apart on opposed sides of the main body so as to help form a linear run of fence sections, as shown in FIGS. 6B and 6D. Alternatively, the receiving elements 38 can be formed or disposed on adjacent sides of the main body (e.g., 90 apart) so as to enable adjacent fence sections to be oriented at right angles relative to each other.

[0031] As further shown in FIGS. 1-3 and 9, the modular fence system 10 can also employ coupler elements 70 on the top portion of the vertical rail elements 30. The coupler elements 70 can thus be mounted on opposed terminal ends of the main body 32 of the vertical rail elements 30. If desired, a cap element 120 can be employed so as to terminate or cap off the vertical rail elements 30. The illustrated cap element 120 has a main body having a top portion 122 that has an integral bottom portion 124. The bottom portion 124 can be sized to seat within the chamber 36 of the vertical rail element 30.

[0032] The illustrated modular fence system 10 also includes the horizontal rail elements 50. As shown in FIGS. 1, 7A and 7B, the illustrated horizontal rail element 50 can include an elongated main body 52 that extends along a longitudinal axis 58. The main body 52 can be hollow to form a chamber 54 and can have a plurality of sides, and at least one of the sides can include a panel receiving element 56 for receiving a portion of the infill section 80. The receiving element 56 can include a pair of capture elements 60A and 60B for receiving and capturing an edge of a panel. The capture elements 60A, 60B can form a space 62 therebetween that is sized and dimensioned consistent with either a panel connection element or with an edge of the panel. According to one embodiment, the capture elements 60A, 60B and hence the space 62 is sized and configured to be complementary to the shape of the edge of the panel.

[0033] The term vertical rail element within the context of the modular fence system of the present invention can refer to an elongated structural component positioned predominantly in an upright orientation relative to the ground. The vertical rail element can serve as a support structure of the modular fence system and extend longitudinally along a principal axis that is substantially perpendicular to a ground plane. The vertical rail elements can support and provide stability to the fence system, accommodating the attachment of horizontal rail elements and infill sections. Each vertical rail element may feature one or more receiving channels or flange elements for engaging with corresponding components of the fence system.

[0034] In the context of the modular fence system disclosed herein, the term horizontal rail element can refer to an elongated structural component positioned predominantly in a lateral orientation with respect to the ground. The horizontal rail elements can function to connect and stabilize the vertical rail elements and secure the infill sections within the modular fence system. The horizontal rail elements are coupled to the vertical rail elements at their upper and lower ends, forming a cohesive frame structure. The horizontal rail elements extend longitudinally along a principal axis that is substantially parallel to the ground plane. The horizontal rail elements are designed to engage with and secure the infill sections within the frame, providing both structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. Each horizontal rail element may feature one or more surface features or channels for engaging with corresponding components of the fence system, such as the vertical rail elements and the infill sections.

[0035] The illustrated infill section 80 can have any selected size, shape and configuration. The infill section can include for example a panel 80 formed of any suitable material that can be coupled or connected to the horizontal rail elements 50, 50 and to the vertical rail elements 30, 30. The panel 80 can be directly coupled to the vertical rail elements via the capture elements 40A, 40B or can be coupled to the capture elements 40A, 40B via suitable intermediate structure, such as for example by way of the panel connection elements 90. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 8, the illustrated panel connection element 90 can have a main body 92 that can have a slot or opening 94 formed therein that is configured to engage with an edge of the panel 80. The main body 92 of the panel connection element 90 can also be shaped to be complementary to the space 42 formed between the capture elements 40A, 40B. The capture elements 40A, 40B and the panel connection element 90 form a connection or retention assembly for connecting and securing the panel 80 to the vertical rail elements 30, 30.

[0036] According to the present invention, the infill or panel section 80 is removable and replaceable relative to the remaining portions of the modular fence system. For example, if the homeowner wishes to remove the infill section 80 from the modular fence system, then the top horizontal rail element 50 and the associated coupler elements 70, 70 are removed from a top portion of the modular fence system 10. The infill section 80 is then slidingly removed from the receiving or retention elements 38, 38 of the vertical rail elements 30, 30 so as to temporarily remove the infill section 80 from the fence system. The infill section 80 can be removed so as to avoid damage to the sections in the case of an extreme weather or wind event. When the weather event is over, then the infill section 80 can be reinserted (replaced) within the vertical rail elements 30, 30. Alternatively, the homeowner may wish to change the type of infill section 80, for example from a full panel section to a panel having horizontal or vertical slats or sections. As such, the homeowner can once again remove the infill section 80 as described above and place a new infill section into the modular fence system 10. The modular fence system 10 of the present invention thus provides for a fence system that can have a panel 80 that can be easily removable from the overall fence system, as shown for example in FIGS. 1-4.

[0037] The vertical and horizontal rail elements of the modular fence system 10 can be formed from a variety of materials tailored to the desired aesthetic and functional requirements of the fence system. Common materials can include plastic, which offers durability and resistance to weathering; vinyl, which provides a lightweight and maintenance-free option; and aluminum, known for its strength and corrosion resistance. Each material brings distinct advantages, allowing homeowners to choose the best option for their specific needs and preferences. According to one embodiment, the top coupler elements can have a dual purpose receptacle formed on a side opposite the vertical rail elements. The receptacle can accept the mount for the fence, allowing for surface and fascia mounts as well as allowing for adjustments. When the coupler elements are serving as a joint on top of the fence, the receptacle may be used to receive any number of decorative or ornamental caps, including but not limited to lighting fixtures, flush caps, pyramids or spherical shapes.

[0038] The modular fence system 10 can employ panel connection elements 90 that are formed along opposed vertical sides of the panel 80 so that the panel can slidingly engage with the capture elements 40, 40B of the receiving elements 38 of the vertical rail elements 30. The panel connection elements 90 and the receiving elements 38 can serve a dual purpose of allowing any infill section 80 to slide onto the vertical rail elements 30 and to hold together and stabilize the infill section 80. According to other embodiments, the receiving elements 38 can also include thin acrylic, holding cable tensioners and terminals or binding mesh fabric. The mounting slide elements can come in a variety of geometries that couple with the flange elements of the vertical rail elements, allowing for seamless sliding and/or hinging of the elements.

[0039] The modular fence system 10 can also include an infill section 80 that can include one or more panel or infill elements of any selected type. The infill section 80 can come in a variety of different materials, shapes and sizes. The section can include but is not limited to stainless steel cables, acrylic sheets of different colors and qualities, mesh fabric, vinyl or PVC slats, wood slats or aluminum spindles. The infill section 80 can be shaped in such a way that it fills a 4 foot by 6 foot standard dimension, or in cases where the fence system needs to travel on an incline or decline, the infill section can be shaped to accommodate.

[0040] According to another embodiment, the vertical rail elements 30 can be mounted within the ground. A bottom horizontal rail element 50 can be coupled to the vertical rail elements 30 by suitable coupler elements 70. The vertical rail elements 30 can have suitable surface features (e.g., receiving elements 38) formed thereon that form a vertical channel for slidingly mounting the infill section 80. Similarly, the bottom horizontal rail element 50 can have surface features formed (e.g., panel receiving elements 56) thereon that form a channel to accept a bottom portion or edge of the infill section 80. The infill section 80 can include integrated connection or coupler elements or can employ separate mounting slide elements that can be formed along the vertical side surfaces, that engage with and seat within the receiving elements 38 of the vertical rail elements 30 and the panel receiving elements 56 of the bottom horizontal rail element 50. The top horizontal rail element 50 can be coupled to the vertical rail elements 30 by additional coupler elements 70. The coupler elements 70 used to mount the top horizontal rail element 50 can be different than the coupler elements used to mount the bottom horizontal rail element 50.

[0041] According to the present invention, the infill section 80 is removable and replaceable relative to the remaining portions of the modular fence system 10. For example, if the homeowner wishes to remove the infill section 80 from the fence system, then the top horizontal rail element 50 and the associated coupler elements 70 are removed from the modular fence system. The infill section 80 is then slidingly removed from the receiving elements 38 of the vertical rail elements 30 so as to temporarily remove the infill section from the fence system. The infill section 80 can be removed so as to avoid damage to the sections in the case of an extreme weather or wind event. When the weather event is over, then the infill section can be reinserted (replaced) within the vertical rail elements. Alternatively, the homeowner may wish to change the type of infill section (from a vertically oriented panel section to a horizontally oriented panel section). As such, the homeowner can once again remove the infill section as described above and place a new infill section into the modular fence system.

[0042] It will thus be seen that the invention efficiently attains the objects set forth above, among those made apparent from the preceding description. Since certain changes may be made in the above constructions without departing from the scope of the invention, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.

[0043] It is also to be understood that the following claims are to cover all generic and specific features of the invention described herein, and all statements of the scope of the invention which, as a matter of language, might be said to fall therebetween.