Patent Application
20130193287
The present invention relates generally to hanging devices and specifically to a garden hanging device that attaches easily to cylindrical metal fence posts without the need of tools and a method regarding same.
Within the residential setting, many homeowners and renters have privacy fences around the perimeter of their yards. While important for privacy, such fences can often be an eyesore. The aesthetic appearance of a privacy fence is often improved by placing landscaping, fountains, and other ornamental fixtures near the fence. However, most landscaping features are semi-permanent in nature and, thus, not easily changed or replaced. Because of this limitation, home occupiers often choose to place more temporary displays in their yards. Such temporary displays often take the form of potted plants, hanging baskets, bird baths, bird feeders, and the like. With respect to those displays suitable for hanging, it is often desirable to place such displays on the perimeter fencing. There are several conventional and commercially available products that permit a gardener to place a bracket or shelf on a perimeter fence having wooden fence posts. For example, some commercially available hangers are designed to be secured to wooden post with nails or screws. However, many city ordinances now require the use of metal fence posts for perimeter stockade fencing.
With the use of metal fence posts, there is a need for a garden hanging device that can be easily attached to such posts without the need for tools.
The garden hanging apparatus of the present invention is structured and arranged to be readily applied directly to the fence post through the use of tension or spring flex type clamps and fasteners. In a preferred embodiment, the device comprises a bracket, a hook member, one or more clamp extension arms, and one or more clamping members. The bracket is generally right triangular in shape and comprises an extending member, and a brace member. In other embodiments, the bracket further comprises a vertical member. In such embodiments, the brace member spans between and is coupled to the extending and vertical members. In the preferred embodiment, the extending member is generally oriented above the brace member and comprises a hook member positioned near an intersection of the brace and extending members.
The apparatus is structured and arranged such that it can easily be mounted to a fence post, and when so mounted, is capable of supporting an object suspended from the hook or other portion of the bracket or an object positioned on top of or within the bracket. The bracket is coupled to the post by one or more of the clamping members. In preferred embodiments, these clamping members may comprise a C-shaped spring/flexible tension assembly, a C-shaped clamp/clasp assembly, a U-shaped clamp/clasp assembly, or a U-shaped spring/flexible tension assembly.
In another embodiment of the invention, the garden hanging apparatus can be attached to a larger diameter fence post such as light posts and awning posts in front of buildings.
In another embodiment, the apparatus may be coupled to a vertical post. In another embodiment, the apparatus may be coupled to a horizontal post.
In another embodiment of the invention, the garden hanging apparatus may comprise ornate features.
Additionally, the hanging device is readily adaptable for use outside the garden within towns, communities, etc. near streets and walkways on poles and posts to display flags and banners.
A number of patents and patent publications teach hanging devices. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,708,832 issued to Hannon teaches a device for hanging objects on a vertical support. U.S. Pat. No. 3,746,294 issued to Johnston teaches a lantern hanger assembly. U.S. Pat. No. 4,744,537 issued to Buckley, teaches a hanger bracket. U.S. Pat. No. 5,337,986 issued to Vollink teaches a hanging-plant support assembly. U.S. Pat. No. 6,202,964 issued to Thornhill teaches a multi-purpose hanger. Pribanich, U.S. Design Pat. No. 632,517, illustrates an ornamental design for a plant and birdfeeder hanger. Holland, U.S. Design Pat. 461,429, illustrates an ornamental design for a hanging plant brace. Hollinger, U.S. Design Pat. 348,631, illustrates an ornamental design for a plant bracket.
However, there remains a need for a fence post hanger that is secure, easily mountable without tools, and which may be coupled to a variety of fence posts for use with a variety of objects.
The present disclosure provides a fence post hanger that is secure, easily mountable without tools, and which may be coupled to a variety of fence posts for use with a variety of objects, and a method regarding same. The device comprises one or more clamp extending members, and one or more clamping (tension) members. In certain embodiments, the extending member may be an element of a bracket. The bracket is generally right-triangular in shape and comprises an extending member, and a brace member. In other embodiments, the bracket further comprises a vertical member. In such embodiments, the brace member spans between and is coupled to the extending and vertical members. In the preferred embodiment, the extending member is generally oriented above the brace member and comprises a hook member positioned near an intersection of the brace and extending members. Such hook member is suitable for suspending or hanging an object such as a hanging basket.
The apparatus is structured and arranged such that it can easily be mounted to a horizontal or vertical fence post, and when so mounted, is capable of supporting an object suspended from the hook or other portion of the bracket or an object positioned on top of or within the bracket. The extending member and/or the support member may be directly coupled to the post or indirectly by the vertical member by one or more of the clamping (tension) members In preferred embodiments, these clamping members may comprise a C-shaped spring/flexible tension assembly, a C or U-shaped clamp/clasp assembly, or a U-shaped spring/flexible tension assembly, or some other suitable arrangement. In one embodiment, the apparatus is secured to the post with two clamping members In this embodiment, a clamp extension arm spans between an upper clamping member and the extending member such that the upper clamping member is positioned approximately adjacent to the extending member at the top of the bracket. At a lower end of the bracket a lower clamping member is coupled to the bracket with a lower clamp extension arm such that the lower clamping member is positioned at a lower end of the brace member at the bottom of the bracket.
The clamping members of this embodiment each comprise a U-shaped spring/flexible tension assembly. This assembly comprises the extension arm and collars (sides) arranged such that the collars may be positioned around the post. The collars are structured such that the assembly is flexible and elastic. Collars have sufficient tension forces acting opposite of one another such that the assembly rests in an open position. The collars comprise padding such that the assembly will not abrade, scratch, or otherwise damage the post when placed in position. The collars may be closed about a post by use of latch mechanism so that the assembly and apparatus may be positioned on the post.
The latch mechanism of the certain embodiments comprises a main body and a detent portion which allow for cooperative coupling of the two portions. The main body comprises a lever pivotally coupled by pin to base. Pivotally coupled to the lever is clasp which is structured and arranged to be cooperatively coupled at clasp end within detent slot of the detent portion. Detent openings permit the detent to be mounted on collar. Main body base has base openings that permit the main body to be coupled to collar. Side plate pivots with lever provide support for lever when in a closed position. Lever has an opening that is arranged to allow locking portion to be inserted. Locking portion is pivotally and elastically coupled to side mount with pin. A front ridge of locking portion engages front portion of lever opening to allow the latch to be securely closed.
When in an open position, the latch is coupled to one collar. The latch is arranged so that it may be coupled to the other collar and drawn tight. Thus, the latch spans from one collar to the other when in a closed position. Drawing the collars tight when the assembly is in the closed position brings the two collars nearer to one another and snugly against the post. This latch is adjustable so that it can be easily used on posts of different diameters. For example, collar may comprise openings which allow detent to be positioned in different openings so as to allow the U-shaped clamping assembly to accommodate different sized posts. Thus, the latch mechanism permits the clamping member to be closed around the post so that the device may be easily attached to the post without the use of tools.
The upper clamping member is positioned beneath the metal fence post cap and the lower clamping member placed generally in-line with the upper clamping member and around the post in a lower position. With the clamping member placed in the secure closed position, the apparatus will generally not twist or slide and will remain in a desired position on the post.
In another embodiment, one or more of the clamping members comprise a C-shaped spring/flexible tension assembly which secures the device to the metal post of a stockade fence. In this embodiment, assembly comprises collars arranged so as to be in tension towards each other. The collars form an opening between them such that the assembly, when in a closed position, generally conforms to the contours of the post. The tension aspect of the assembly permits the collars to compress against the post when the assembly is positioned around the post. Tapered opening permits the assembly to be easily pressed onto a post. Such action expands collars to allow the post to enter opening. As the assembly is pressed further against post, collar ends move off the post allowing collars to contract towards one another and against the post. In this embodiment, the top clamping member is placed just under the fence post cap and immediately above the bracket that attaches the post to the stockade fence. The clamping members may also comprise U-shaped spring/flexible tension assembly.
In other embodiments, the garden hanging apparatus may comprise ornate features in an inner right-angle portion of the device. In this embodiment, the bracket is generally right triangular in shape and comprises a extending member, a brace member and a vertical member. The brace member spans between and is coupled to the extending and vertical members. The device further comprises a C, U, or otherwise arcuate shaped fastener assembly adapted to be positioned beneath the metal fence post cap and immediately above the fence bracket. In this embodiment the fastener assembly extends from the extending member such that it may be placed around the fence post. In this embodiment, the assembly comprises collars that form fastener opening. This opening has a diameter that permits the assembly to be placed around the post but narrow enough to prevent the assembly from sliding over the fence post cap. A U-shaped tension or flex clamp/clasp assembly may also be used to attach the apparatus to the metal fence post.
The bracket of this embodiment further comprises ornate features. Such features may comprise decorative material which may also provide additional structural support to the bracket. In one embodiment the apparatus with ornate features may comprise U-shaped, C-shaped, circular, or otherwise arcuate shaped clamps/clasps assemblies with easy lock spring or tension features to secure the device to the metal fence posts.
In another embodiment, the bracket may comprise a flag holder which may be used to display and secure flags, banners, and other objects comprising a shaft. In another embodiment, the bracket may comprise a shelf upon which objects may be supported. In still other embodiments, the apparatus may be combined with another apparatus with an object or shelf spanning between the two devices.
The apparatus may be secured to larger diameter metal posts. In such an embodiment, the garden hanging apparatus may be attached to the post by use of the cushioned and padded collar assembly. Such a collar assembly comprises a flexible latch portion that prevents abrasion of metal or wooden posts.
In one embodiment, the apparatus presents a wooden or rustic appearance.
In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a collapsible bracket wherein the brace member or the extending member comprise a hinge arrangement.
In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a cylindrical element adapted to hold an object such as the pot of a potted plant. In one embodiment, the cylindrical element is removably coupled to the bracket.
In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises an open portion adapted to receive a hook of a hanging object.
In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a retractable element. In one embodiment, the retractable element is telescopically arranged. In one embodiment, the retractable element comprises an open portion adapted to receive a hook of a hanging object.
In one embodiment the bracket comprises a quick release element.
In one embodiment the bracket comprises clamping members adapted to receive one or more wing nuts.
In one embodiment the bracket is adapted to receive one or more wing nuts at a position in which a hanging object is secured.
In one embodiment the bracket comprises clamping members comprising rubber, silicone, or similar material.
In a preferred embodiment of the method, the method of positioning an object adjacent to a fence post, comprises the steps of providing a fence post; providing an apparatus comprising one or more arcuate tension members and an extension member, the one or more tension members being directly or indirectly coupled to said extension member; pressing the apparatus against a longitudinal side of the post such that the post is positioned within a space defined by first and second ends of the one or more tension members; and positioning the object on the extension member.
In one embodiment of the method, the extending member comprises a distal portion and a proximal portion, the proximal portion being positioned between the distal portion and the tension member. In this embodiment, the apparatus further comprises a support portion extending from the extending member distal portion, such that when the fence member is positioned within the space, the support portion extends towards said fence member.
In one embodiment of the method, the extending member comprises a hook to which the object may be positioned.
In one embodiment of the method, the apparatus comprises a ring adapted to be positioned around a circumference of the fence member when the fence member is positioned within the space.
In one embodiment of the method, the fence member is a generally vertical fence post.
In one embodiment of the method, the fence post is cylindrical.
In one embodiment of the method, the fence post is metallic.
In one embodiment of the method, the object is suspended from said extending member.
a is a top view of one embodiment of the clamping member of the apparatus, wherein the clamping member is shown coupled to a post.
b is a top view of one embodiment of the clamping member of the apparatus.
A preferred embodiment of the device 14 is presented in the figures referenced above. In describing the embodiments of the invention, specific terminology will be used for the sake of clarity. However, the invention is not intended to be limited to the specific terms so selected, it being understood that each specific term includes all technical equivalents operating in a similar manner to accomplish a similar purpose. It is understood that the drawings are not drawn exactly to scale. In the drawings, similar reference numbers are used for designating similar elements throughout the several drawings.
This specification and appended claims describe particular embodiments of the invention. However, it should be understood, based on this disclosure, that the invention is not limited to the embodiments detailed herein. As used herein, the terms “a” or “an” shall mean one or more than one. The term “plurality” shall mean two or more than two. The term “another” is defined as a second or more. The terms “including” and/or “having” are open ended (e.g., comprising). The term “or” as used herein is to be interpreted as inclusive or meaning any one or any combination. Therefore, “A, B or C” means “any of the following: A; B; C; A and B; A and C; B and C; A, B and C”. An exception to this definition will occur only when a combination of elements, functions, steps or acts are in some way inherently mutually exclusive.
Reference throughout this document to “one embodiment,” “certain embodiments,” “an embodiment,” or similar term means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Thus, the appearances of such phrases in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner on one or more embodiments without limitation. The detailed description illustrates by way of example, not by way of limitation, the principles of the invention. This description will clearly enable one skilled in the art to make and use the invention, and describes several embodiments, aspects, adaptations, variations, alternatives, and uses of the invention, including what is presently believed to be the best mode of carrying out the invention.
The examples and illustrations of a garden hanging apparatus are described herein with respect to mounting to and holding certain objects. However, the inventive system is equally applicable for use with other surfaces and for holding other objects. Moreover, while certain materials are discussed herein with respect to various components of the various embodiments, the embodiments are not limited to such materials. For example, in a preferred embodiment, certain components are formed from metal. However, as will be discussed in more detail below, the components of the device may comprise any suitable materials without departing from the scope and spirit of this disclosure.
Referring to
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The latch mechanism 46 of the preferred embodiment comprises a main body 88 and a detent portion 80 which allow for cooperative coupling of the two portions 88, 80. The main body 88 comprises a lever 58 pivotally coupled by pin 78 to base 76. Pivotally coupled to the lever 58 is clasp 62 which is structured and arranged to be cooperatively coupled at clasp end 64 within detent slot 84 of the detent portion 80. Detent openings 82 permit the detent 80 to be mounted on collar 44b (
When in an open position, the latch 46 is coupled to one collar 44a. The latch 46 is arranged so that it may be coupled to the other collar 44b and drawn tight. Thus, the latch 46 spans from one collar 44a to the other 44b when in a closed position. Drawing the collars 44a, 44b tight when the assembly 44 is in the closed position brings the two collars 44a, 44b nearer to one another and snugly against the post 22. This latch 46 is adjustable so that it can be easily used on posts 22 of different diameters. For example, referring to
Although the latch member 46 has been described above as comprising various elements, other suitable latch members 46 which allow the collars 44a, 44b to be drawn against post 22 may be used without departing from the scope and spirit of this disclosure.
Referring to
Referring to
Referring to
The bracket 16 of this embodiment further comprises ornate features 50. Such features 50 may comprise decorative material which may also provide additional structural support to the bracket 16. Referring to
Although in a preferred embodiment, the apparatus 14 comprises tension features 46, the apparatus 14 need not necessarily comprise such tension features 46. For example, as discussed above, one or more fastener assemblies 54 (
In another embodiment, and as shown in
The apparatus 14 may be secured to larger diameter metal posts 22 as shown in
In the preferred embodiment, the garden hanging apparatus 14 is constructed from metal. However, the apparatus 14 need not be formed from metal. Rather, other materials such as polycarbonates, plastics, PVC, wood, and the like may be used. Additionally, the material may be formed from materials that are UV resistant. The apparatus 14 can be modified to present a wooden or rustic appearance, as well as other variations. Also, the apparatus 14 need not be limited to metal or cylindrical posts 22. Rather, the apparatus 14 is suitable for use with a variety of posts 22 formed in a variety of shapes and materials.
In a preferred embodiment of the method, the method of positioning an object 12 adjacent to a fence post 22, comprises the steps of providing a fence post 22; providing an apparatus 14 comprising one or more arcuate tension members 20 and an extension member 36, the one or more tension members 20 being directly or indirectly coupled to said extension member 36; pressing the apparatus 14 against a longitudinal side of the post 22 such that the post 22 is positioned within a opening 32 defined by first 34a and second ends 34b of the one or more tension members 20; and positioning the object 12 on the extension member 36.
In one embodiment the method, the extension member 36 comprises a distal portion and a proximal portion, the proximal portion being positioned between the distal portion and the tension member 20. In this embodiment, the apparatus 14 further comprises a support portion 38 extending from the extension member 36 distal portion, such that when the fence member 22 is positioned within the opening 32, the brace member 38 extends towards said fence member 22.
In one embodiment of the method, the extension member 36 comprises a hook 18 to which the object 12 may be positioned.
In one embodiment of the method, the apparatus 14 comprises a ring 20 adapted to be positioned around a circumference of the fence member 22 when the fence member 22 is positioned within the opening 32.
In one embodiment of the method, the fence member 22 is a generally vertical fence post 22.
In one embodiment of the method, the fence post 22 is cylindrical.
In one embodiment of the method, the fence post 22 is metallic.
In one embodiment of the method, the object 12 is suspended from said extension member 36.
The foregoing disclosure and showings made in the drawing are merely illustrative of the principles of this invention and are not to be interpreted in a limiting sense. While the invention is shown in only a few forms, it is not just limited to the forms shown, but is susceptible to various changes and modifications without departing from the spirit thereof. The foregoing description of a preferred embodiment of the invention has been presented for the purpose of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. Obvious modifications or variations are possible in light of the above teachings. The invention may be adapted for use in a number of environments.
The embodiment was chosen and described to provide the best illustration of the principles of the invention and its practical application, and to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to utilize the invention in various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. All such modifications and variations are within the scope of the invention in accordance with the breadth of this disclosure, to which it is fairly, legally, and equitably entitled to be interpreted.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 61592345 | Jan 2012 | US |
