| |
| United States Patent
|
7,350,480 |
| Hughes |
April 1, 2008 |
Portable electric fence systems
Abstract
A temporary electrified fence enclosure system utilizing movable
storable fence posts and flexible electrified ribbons that are
retractably reeled within the fence post. Each fence post comprises
an internal power source. Each electrified ribbon is coupled
mechanically to other fence posts to create the enclosure. The
system is preferably stored or removably attached to a trailer, such
as a horse trailer, and is quickly and easily set-up.
| Inventors: |
Hughes; Gabriel T.
(Avondale, AZ) |
| Appl. No.:
|
11/754,758 |
| Filed: |
May 29, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
Issue Date |
|
10883953 |
Jul., 2004 |
|
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60484408 |
Jul., 2003 |
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| Current U.S.
Class: |
119/512 ;
119/518; 119/519 |
| Current
International Class: |
A01K
3/00 (20060101) |
| Field of
Search: |
119/484,496,498,502,512,513,516,518,519,843 256/10,37,40,43
|
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent
Documents
Foreign Patent Documents
Primary Examiner: Nguyen; T
Attorney, Agent or Firm:
Stoneman Volk Patent Group Stoneman; Martin L. Volk, Jr.;
Michael D.
Parent Case Text
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
The present application is a continuation-in-part of related
application Ser. No. 10/883,953, filed Jul. 1, 2004, entitled
"TRAILER ENCLOSURE SYSTEMS", and is related to and claims priority
from that application, which is related to and claims priority from
prior provisional application Ser. No. 60/484,408, filed Jul. 2,
2003, entitled "TRAILER ENCLOSURE SYSTEM", the contents of both of
which are incorporated herein by this reference and are not admitted
to be prior art with respect to the present invention by the mention
in this cross-reference section.
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A polygon restraint enclosure system, relating to the restraint
of at least one animal within at least one temporary holding area
having at least one ground surface, said system comprising: a) at
least one deployable boundary member structured and arranged to
temporarily enclose at least one open boundary of the at least one
temporary holding area; b) at least one support post structured and
arranged to assist temporary stable support of said at least one
deployable boundary member above the at least one ground surface; c)
at least one self-contained power source structured and arranged to
provide at least one electric current sufficient to assist restraint
of the at least one animal; d) wherein said at least one
self-contained power source is located substantially within said at
least one support post; e) wherein said at least one deployable
boundary member comprises at least one electrical conductor
structured and arranged to conduct the at least one electric current
substantially along at least one deployed length of said at least
one boundary member; f) wherein said at least one electrical
conductor comprises at least one open circuit structured and
arranged to be at least partially exposed to the at least one
holding area; g) wherein contact between the at least one animal and
said at least one electrical conductor closes said at least one open
circuit passing the at least one electric current to the at least
one animal; and h) wherein said at least one support post comprises
at least one storage structured and arranged to store said at least
one deployable boundary member substantially within said at least
one support post when not in use; i) wherein said at least one
deployable boundary member comprises at least one electrifiable
ribbon comprising at least one first ribbon side and at least one
second ribbon side; j) wherein said at least one electrifiable
ribbon comprises at least one first said at least one electrical
conductor and at least one second said at least one electrical
conductor; k) wherein said at least one first said at least one
electrical conductor and said at least one second said at least one
electrical conductor run substantially parallel to one another along
said at least one second ribbon side; l) wherein said at least one
first said at least one electrical conductor is coupled to at least
one positive electrical potential of said at least one
self-contained power source; and m) wherein said at least one second
said at least one electrical conductor is coupled to at least one
negative electrical potential of said at least one self-contained
power source.
2. The polygon restraint enclosure system according to claim 1
wherein said at least one support post is movably relocatable
relative to the at least one ground surface.
3. The polygon restraint enclosure system according to claim 2
wherein: a) said at least one electrical conductor comprises at
least one substantially flexible composition; and b) said at least
one deployable boundary member comprises at least one substantially
flexible substrate structured and arranged to position said at least
one electrical conductor along said at least one deployable boundary
member.
4. The polygon restraint enclosure system according to claim 3
wherein said at least one support post comprises at least one
retractor reel structured and arranged to assist retractable reeling
of said at least one deployable boundary member to at least one
stowed position within said at least one storage.
5. The polygon restraint enclosure system according to claim 3
wherein: a) said at least one deployable boundary member comprises
at least one first end and at least one second end; b) said at least
one first end comprises at least one first coupler structured and
arranged to electrically couple said at least one electrical
conductor to said at least one self-contained power source; and c)
said at least one second end comprises at least one second coupler
structured and arranged to couple said at least one deployable
boundary member to at least one attachment point.
6. The polygon restraint enclosure system according to claim 5
wherein said at least one first coupler comprises at least one
commutator structured and arranged to maintain the electrical
coupling of said at least one electrical conductor and said at least
one self-contained power source during operation of said at least
one retractor reel.
7. The polygon restraint enclosure system according to claim 5
further comprising: a) a plurality of said at least one support
posts; b) wherein said at least one second coupler is structured and
arranged to couple at least one first support post of said plurality
to at least one second support post of said plurality.
8. The polygon restraint enclosure system according to claim 7
further comprising: a) at least one animal transport structured and
arranged to transport the at least one animal; b) wherein said at
least one animal transport comprises at least one sidewall usable to
define at least one boundary of the at least one temporary holding
area.
9. The polygon restraint enclosure system according to claim 8
wherein at least one said at least one support post of said
plurality comprises at least one wall mount structured and arranged
to mount said at least one support post to said at least one
sidewall.
10. The polygon restraint enclosure system according to claim 9
wherein said at least one animal transport comprises at least one
secondary power source structured and arranged to power at least one
electrical conductor of at least one said at least one support post
of said plurality.
11. The polygon restraint enclosure system according to claim 9
wherein said at least one animal transport comprises at least one
carrier structured and arranged to carry said plurality of said at
least one support posts when not in use.
12. A polygon restraint enclosure system, relating to restraining at
least one animal within at least one enclosure having a plurality of
enclosure sides, after being transported by at least one animal
transport having at least one sidewall, comprising: a) at least one
animal transport structured and arranged to transport the at least
one animal b) deployable from said at least one animal transport, at
least one electrifiable polygon fence structured and arranged to
restrain the at least one animal; and c) at least one power source
structured and arranged to provide a sufficiently high voltage to
said electrifiable polygon fence to assist restraint of the at least
one animal; d) wherein said electrifiable polygon fence comprises at
least one conductor structured and arranged to transmit such
voltage; e) wherein said at least one conductor comprises at least
one electrifiable ribbon comprising at least one first ribbon side
and at least one second ribbon side; f) wherein said at least one
electrifiable ribbon comprises at least one first at least one
electrical conductor and at least one second at least one electrical
conductor; g) wherein said at least one first said at least one
electrical conductor and said at least one second said at least one
electrical conductor run substantially parallel to one another along
said at least one second ribbon side; h) wherein said at least one
first said at least one electrical conductor is coupled to at least
one positive electrical potential of said at least one power source;
i) wherein said at least one second said at least one electrical
conductor is coupled to at least one negative electrical potential
of said at least one power source; j) wherein at least one side of
said at least one electrifiable polygon fence is structured and
arranged to abut at least one sidewall of said at least one animal
transport; k) wherein said at least one electrifiable polygon fence
comprises at least one post structured and arranged to assist stable
support of said electrifiable polygon fence; and l) wherein said at
least one post comprises at least one reel structured and arranged
to assist retractable storing of said at least one conductor inside
at least one portion of said at least one post.
13. The polygon restraint enclosure system according to claim 12
wherein said at least one power source is located substantially
within said at least one animal transport.
14. The polygon restraint enclosure system according to claim 13
wherein said at least one animal transport comprises at least one
carrier structured and arranged to carry said at least one polygon
fence when not in use.
15. The polygon restraint enclosure system according to claim 13
wherein said at least one power source comprises at least one
battery-powered direct-current circuit structured and arranged to
generate at least one high-voltage low-amperage current.
Description
BACKGROUND
This invention relates to providing systems for enclosing animals,
particularly livestock, such as horses. More specifically, this
invention relates to an enclosure system, attachable to a transport
trailer, that may be utilized anywhere the trailer is located.
Typically, animals, such as horses, are transported by specialized
trailers adapted to carry such animals. These animals are often
transported to rodeos, shows, parades, etc., and require a place to
be fed, exercise and sleep, most typically, a corral or stall.
Typically, the livestock owner has to rent a corral or stall for the
animal. Such rental can be quite costly, especially when multiplied
by numerous trips throughout the years.
It would be useful to have a portable enclosure that is removably
attached to a trailer for enclosing livestock after transport of
such livestock. It would be useful to have such a portable enclosure
that is lightweight, yet sturdy enough to keep the animal within the
enclosure. Furthermore, it would be useful if such portable
enclosure were to be easily transported and stowed within or
adjacent to the trailer. No such portable enclosure is available.
OBJECTS AND FEATURES OF THE INVENTION
A primary object and feature of the present invention is to provide
a system to overcome the above-discussed problems and to fill such
needs.
It is another primary object and feature of the present invention to
provide a system comprising a plurality of self-powered post members
that are designed to quickly deploy a geometric arrangement of
electrified boundary rails.
It is a further object and feature of the present invention to
provide a system for enclosing livestock after transport of such
livestock.
It is a further object and feature of the present invention to
provide such a system that is lightweight, easily transported, and
stowed within or adjacent to a transport vehicle.
It is a further object and feature of the present invention to
provide such a system that utilizes posts coupled together with an
internal power source and retractable deployable boundary member to
create an enclosure.
A further primary object and feature of the present invention is to
provide such a system that is efficient, inexpensive, and handy.
Other objects and features of this invention will become apparent
with reference to the following descriptions.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In accordance with a preferred embodiment hereof, this invention
provides a polygon restraint enclosure system, relating to the
restraint of at least one animal within at least one temporary
holding area having at least one ground surface, such system
comprising: at least one deployable boundary member structured and
arranged to temporarily enclose at least one open boundary of the at
least one temporary holding area; at least one support post
structured and arranged to assist temporary stable support of such
at least one deployable boundary member above the at least one
ground surface; at least one self-contained power source structured
and arranged to provide at least one electric current sufficient to
assist restraint of the at least one animal; wherein such at least
one self-contained power source is located substantially within such
at least one support post; wherein such at least one deployable
boundary member comprises at least one electrical conductor
structured and arranged to conduct the at least one electric current
substantially along at least one deployed length of such at least
one boundary member; wherein, when such at least one electrical
conductor comprises at least one open circuit structured and
arranged to be at least partially exposed to the at least one
holding area; wherein contact between the at least one animal and
such at least one electrical conductor closes such at least one open
circuit passing the at least one electric current to the at least
one animal; and wherein such at least one support post comprises at
least one storage structured and arranged to store such at least one
deployable boundary member substantially within such at least one
support post when not in use.
Moreover, it provides such a polygon restraint enclosure system
wherein such at least one support post is movably relocatable
relative to the at least one ground surface. Additionally, it
provides such a polygon restraint enclosure system wherein: such at
least one electrical conductor comprises at least one substantially
flexible composition; and such at least one deployable boundary
member comprises at least one substantially flexible substrate
structured and arranged to position such at least one electrical
conductor along such at least one deployable boundary member. Also,
it provides such a polygon restraint enclosure system wherein such
at least one support post comprises at least one retractor reel
structured and arranged to assist retractable reeling of such at
least one deployable boundary member to at least one stowed position
within such at least one storage.
In addition, it provides such a polygon restraint enclosure system
wherein: such at least one deployable boundary member comprises at
least one electrifiable ribbon comprising at least one first ribbon
side and at least one second ribbon side; such at least one
electrical conductor is conductively positioned to be substantially
exposed on such at least one first ribbon side; and such at least
one electrical conductor is conductively positioned to be
substantially electrically isolated from such at least one second
ribbon side. And, it provides such a polygon restraint enclosure
system wherein: such at least one deployable boundary member
comprises at least one first end and at least one second end; such
at least one first end comprises at least one first coupler
structured and arranged to electrically couple such at least one
electrical conductor to such at least one self-contained power
source; and such at least one second end comprises at least one
second coupler structured and arranged to couple such at least one
deployable boundary member to at least one attachment point.
Further, it provides such a polygon restraint enclosure system
wherein such at least one first coupler comprises at least one
commutator structured and arranged to maintain the electrical
coupling of such at least one electrical conductor and such at least
one self-contained power source during operation of such at least
one retractor reel. Even further, it provides such a polygon
restraint enclosure system further comprising: a plurality of such
at least one support posts; wherein such at least one second coupler
is structured and arranged to couple at least one first support post
of such plurality to at least one second support post of such
plurality. Moreover, it provides such a polygon restraint enclosure
system further comprising: at least one animal transport structured
and arranged to transport the at least one animal; wherein such at
least one animal transport comprises at least one sidewall usable to
define at least one boundary of the at least one temporary holding
area.
Additionally, it provides such a polygon restraint enclosure system
wherein at least one such at least one support post of such
plurality comprises at least one wall mount structured and arranged
to mount such at least one support post to such at least one
sidewall. Also, it provides such a polygon restraint enclosure
system wherein such at least one animal transport comprises at least
one secondary power source structured and arranged to power at least
one electrical conductor of at least one such at least one support
post of such plurality. In addition, it provides such a polygon
restraint enclosure system wherein such at least one animal
transport comprises at least one carrier structured and arranged to
carry such plurality of such at least one support posts when not in
use. And, it provides such a polygon restraint enclosure system
wherein such at least one electrifiable ribbon comprises at least
one first such at least one electrical conductor and at least one
second such at least one electrical conductor. Further, it provides
such a polygon restraint enclosure system wherein: such at least one
first such at least one electrical conductor and such at least one
second such at least one electrical conductor are electrically
isolated; such at least one first such at least one electrical
conductor is coupled to at least one positive electrical potential
of such at least one self-contained power source; and such at least
one second such at least one electrical conductor is coupled to at
least one negative electrical potential of such at least one
self-contained power source.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a polygon restraint enclosure system, relating to
restraining at least one animal within at least one enclosure having
a plurality of enclosure sides, after being transported by at least
one animal transport having at least one sidewall, comprising: at
least one animal transport structured and arranged to transport the
at least one animal deployable from such at least one animal
transport, at least one polygon fence, having a plurality of
electrifiable sides, structured and arranged to restrain the at
least one animal; and at least one power source structured and
arranged to provide a sufficiently high voltage to such
electrifiable sides for assisting restraint of the at least one
animal; wherein such at least one power source comprises at least
one conductor structured and arranged to transmit such voltage;
wherein such at least one conductor comprises at least one ribbon
portion; and wherein such at least one of such plurality of
electrifiable sides of such at least one polygon fence are
structured and arranged to abut at least one sidewall of such at
least one animal transport; wherein such at least one polygon fence
comprises at least one post structured and arranged to assist stable
support of such plurality of electrifiable sides; and wherein such
at least one post comprises at least one reel structured and
arranged to assist retractable storing of such at least one
conductor inside at least one portion of such at least one post.
Even further, it provides such a polygon restraint enclosure system
wherein such at least one power source is located substantially
within such at least one animal transport. Even further, it provides
such a polygon restraint enclosure system wherein such at least one
animal transport comprises at least one carrier structured and
arranged to carry such at least one polygon fence when not in use.
Even further, it provides such a polygon restraint enclosure system
wherein such at least one power source comprises at least one
battery-powered direct-current circuit structured and arranged to
generate at least one high-voltage low-amperage current.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a temporary deterrence system, relating to the
formation of at least one temporary electrifiable fence comprising:
at least one electrifiable ribbon structured and arranged to form at
least one substantially horizontal line of deterrence; at least one
portable post structured and arranged to assist stable support of
such at least one electrifiable ribbon; wherein such at least one
portable post comprises at least one reel structured and arranged to
assist retractable storing of such at least one electrifiable ribbon
substantially within such at least one portable post, and
electrically coupled to such at least one electrifiable ribbon, at
least one self-contained power source structured and arranged to
supply at least one electric current to such at least one
electrifiable ribbon.
Even further, it provides such a temporary deterrence system wherein
such at least one portable post further comprises: at least one
first portable post; and at least one second portable post; wherein
such at least one electrifiable ribbon of such at least one first
portable post comprises at least one coupler structured and arranged
to couple such at least one electrifiable ribbon to such at least
one second portable post.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of the trailer enclosure system
according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 shows a diagrammatic top view of the trailer enclosure system
of FIG. 1.
FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of a wall mount post of the trailer
enclosure system of FIG. 1.
FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of a floor-mount post of the trailer
enclosure system of FIG. 1.
FIG. 5 shows another partial perspective view of the floor-mount
post of FIG. 4.
FIG. 6 shows a partial side view of the swivel-base mechanism of the
floor-mount post of FIG. 4.
FIG. 7 shows an exploded perspective view, partially in section, of
the electrified ribbon-rail reel system of the post assemblies of
FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 according to a preferred embodiment of the present
invention.
FIG. 8A shows a partial perspective view, of a
post-assembly-to-post-assembly coupling according to a preferred
embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 8B shows a sectional view through the section 9-9 of FIG. 8A.
FIG. 9 shows a partial side view, of the post assembly of FIG. 1
FIG. 10 shows a sectional view through the section 10-10 of FIG. 5.
FIG. 11A shows a schematic diagram of the deployable boundary member
and power circuit according to the trailer enclosure system of FIG.
1.
FIG. 11B shows a sectional view through the section 11B-11B of FIG.
11A.
FIG. 12 shows a diagrammatic top view of an alternate trailer
enclosure system according to a preferred embodiment of the present
invention.
FIG. 13 shows a side view, partially in section, of an alternate
post assembly according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 12.
FIG. 14 shows a partial perspective view, of a
post-assembly-to-post-assembly coupling according to the preferred
embodiment of FIG. 12.
FIG. 15 shows a sectional view through the section 15-15 of FIG. 14.
FIG. 16 shows a sectional view through the section 16-16 of FIG. 14.
FIG. 17 shows an exploded perspective view, partially in section, of
the alternate trailer enclosure system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE BEST MODES AND PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF
THE INVENTION
FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of the trailer enclosure system 100
according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
Preferably, the trailer enclosure system 100 comprises a set of
electric post assemblies 102 (at least embodying herein polygon
fence means, having a plurality of electrifiable sides, for
restraining the at least one animal; and at least embodying herein
at least one polygon fence, having a plurality of electrifiable
sides, structured and arranged to restrain the at least one animal)
preferably including wall mount posts 104, floor-mount posts 106 and
interconnecting rails 108, most preferably deployable boundary
members 110, as shown. Preferably, each post comprises at least one
internal power source functioning to electrify deployable boundary
members 110. Preferably, the wall mount posts 104 are attached to
one sidewall 116 of a trailer 112 (this arrangement at least
embodies herein wherein such at least one of such plurality of
electrifiable sides of such polygon fence means are structured and
arranged to abut the at least one sidewall; and it at least embodies
herein wherein such at least one of such plurality of electrifiable
sides of such at least one polygon fence are structured and arranged
to abut the at least one sidewall), such as the horse trailer 114
illustrated in FIG. 1. Preferably, such horse trailers 114 are fully
enclosed or have at least four sides, as shown (at least embodying
herein animal transport means, having at least one sidewall, for
transporting the at least one animal; and at least embodying herein
at least one animal transport, having at least one sidewall for
transporting the at least one animal). Preferably, additional
floor-mount posts 106 are stored on the trailer sidewall 116,
preferably adjacent the wall-mount posts 104 near a fender portion
118, as shown. Most preferably, all the electric post assemblies 102
are stored along the trailer sidewall when not in use. In an
alternate preferred embodiment, the electric post assemblies 102 are
stored in one or more storage pockets 120 (at least embodying herein
wherein such animal transport means comprises carrying means for
carrying such polygon fence means and such power means; and at least
embodying herein wherein such at least one animal transport
comprises at least one carrier adapted to carry such at least one
polygon fence and such at least one power source) with access from
the exterior 122 of the sidewall 116, as shown. Preferably, the
storage pocket 120 and electric post assemblies 102 are provided as
original manufacturer's equipment with the trailer 112.
In another preferred embodiment, the electric post assemblies 102
are supplied as an after-market item. Upon reading the teachings of
this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as user preference, manufacturing parameters and economic
considerations, other methods of storing the electric post
assemblies, such as inside the trailer or in a separate compartment
outside the trailer, etc., may suffice.
FIG. 2 shows a diagrammatic top view of the trailer enclosure system
100 of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of a wall mount post
104 of the trailer enclosure system of FIG. 1. FIG. 4 shows a
perspective view of a floor-mount post 106 of the trailer enclosure
system 100 of FIG. 1. FIG. 5 shows another perspective view,
partially in section, of the floor-mount post 106 of FIG. 4.
Preferably, each of the deployable boundary members 110 comprise an
electrified ribbon 124 that is preferably of sufficient flexibility
to allow the ribbon to be wound-up or rolled (see also the
disclosure of FIG. 11A and FIG. 11B). Preferably, the retractable
electrified ribbon 124 is stored internally within the electric post
assemblies 102, as shown. More specifically, each post assembly 102
preferably comprises a set of retractable electrified ribbons 124,
preferably stored within one or more portions of the post assembly
102 when not in use, as shown (at least embodying herein wherein
such at least one support post comprises at least one storage
structured and arranged to store such at least one deployable
boundary member substantially within such at least one support post
when not in use). Preferably, each electrified ribbon 124 comprises
an electrified side 125 and a safety-side 127 (that is not
electrified, as best illustrated in FIG. 11A). The non-electrified
safety-side 127 is preferably facing outward from the temporary
holding area 126 to protect passers-by. The electrified side 125 is
preferably facing inward toward the temporary holding area 126 to
keep the animals (horse 128) within the enclosure.
Preferably, each post assembly 102 comprises at least one
self-contained power source structured and arranged to provide a
level of electric current sufficient to assist restraint of the
animal (horse 128). Preferably, such electric current is coupled to
conductive elements extending along the electrified side 125 of the
electrified ribbon 124 (as best illustrated in FIG. 11A).
Preferably, the deployable boundary members 110 are structured and
arranged to enclose temporarily at least one open boundary, most
preferably, each open boundary of the temporary holding area 126, as
shown. Preferably, the deployable boundary members 110 of the
electric post assemblies 102 can be interconnected to create
temporary holding area 126, as shown. As illustrated in FIG. 1,
temporary holding area 126 defines an enclosed area 132 for the
horse 128. Preferably, this area 132 may be expanded or, as shown in
FIG. 2, divided into multiple areas identified herein as area 132
and area 134. Most preferably, the temporary holding area 126 is
about as wide as the trailer 112 is long with the depth of the
enclosure adjusted for the animal(s) kept within it. Upon reading
the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in
the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering such issues as economics, user preference, animal to be
enclosed, dimensions of the temporary holding area 126, etc., other
animals, such as cattle, other enclosure dimensions, etc., may
suffice.
In the preferred arrangement illustrated in FIG. 2, area 132 and
area 134 are developed by the following deployments of electrified
ribbons 124. Preferably, a set of electrified ribbons 124 of wall
mount post 104 (located at position A) are extended to floor-mount
post 106 at position D. Preferably, a set of electrified ribbons 124
of wall mount post 104 (at position B) are extended to floor-mount
post 106 at position E. Similarly, a set of electrified ribbons 124
of wall mount post 104 (at position C) are preferably extended to
floor-mount post 106 at position F, as shown. To fully enclose area
134, a set of electrified ribbons 124 of floor-mount post 106 (at
position D) are extended to floor-mount post 106 at position E, as
shown. Similarly, to fully enclose area 132, a set of electrified
ribbons 124 of floor-mount post 106 (at position E) are extended to
floor-mount post 106 at position F, as shown. Note that additional
enclosed areas can preferably be developed through the use of
additional floor-mount posts 106.
Preferably, the electric post assemblies 102 are secured such that
the temporary holding area 126 will adequately restrain the horse
128 (or animal) within it. Preferably, the wall mount posts 104 are
permanently attached to the trailer sidewall 116, as shown.
Preferably, the floor-mount posts 106 are movably relocatable
relative to the ground surface 101 of temporary holding area 126, as
shown. More specifically, the electric post assemblies 102 are not
permanently fixed to ground surface 101, thus allowing a temporary
holding area 126 of flexible size and shape to be developed adjacent
the trailer sidewall 116, as shown. Preferably, the floor-mount
posts 106 are temporarily held to the ground surface 101 (asphalt,
dirt, etc.) by weights, such as sandbags 130. Upon reading the
teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the
art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering such issues as floor composition, weight limitations
(such as anticipated animal resistance on the interconnecting
ribbons), etc., other methods of temporarily attaching the electric
post assemblies, such as spikes or bolts, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, the wall mount post 104 comprises a base 154 comprising
an upper electrified-ribbon reel portion 156, a lower
electrified-ribbon reel portion 158 (at least embodying herein
wherein such polygon fence means further comprises reel means for
assisting retractable storing of such conductor means; and at least
embodying herein wherein such at least one polygon fence further
comprises at least one reel structured and arranged to assist
retractable storing of such at least one conductor) and a coupling
bar 160, as best shown in FIG. 4. Preferably, coupling bar 160
connects the second ends of the two electrified ribbon reel portions
156 and 158, when the electrified ribbons 124 are installed, as
shown. Preferably, at least one of the electrified ribbon reel
portions (156 or 158) comprises an electric power compartment 157,
as shown. Preferably, the electric power compartment 157 functions
to contain the operational power components including batteries and
voltage-boosting circuits of the post.
Preferably, the base 154 further comprises at least one mounting
plate 163, as shown. Preferably, the mounting plate 163 comprises
multiple apertures 164 for assisting the use of mounting the wall
mount post 104 to the trailer sidewall 116, as shown. Upon reading
the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in
the art will easily ascertain such mounting installation on the
trailer sidewall 116. Preferably, the coupling bar 160 assists a
user in pulling out the retractable electrified ribbon 124 and in
coupling the retractable electrified ribbon 124 to another post
assembly 102 (this arrangement at least embodying herein wherein
such at least one first post comprises at least one first coupler
adapted to couple such at least one electrified fence rail portion
to such at least one second post). Preferably, the coupling bar 160
comprises an upper tab 162 and a lower tab 164 which will slidably
fit into preferably-matching upper receiving coupling slot 166 and
lower receiving coupling slot 168, preferably located on the
floor-mount posts 106, as best shown in FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B. FIG. 10
shows a sectional view through the section 10-10 of FIG. 5 further
illustrating the preferred coupling arrangements.
In such manner, as described above, multiple post assemblies may be
connected to form an enclosure and to provide a deployable boundary
member 110 between each post assembly 102 (at least embodying herein
wherein such at least one second end of such at least one deployable
boundary member comprises at least one second coupler structured and
arranged to couple such at least one deployable boundary member to
at least one attachment point). Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as enclosure height and animal size, etc., more or less than
two electrified ribbon portions, etc., may suffice.
The floor-mount posts 106, as best illustrated in FIG. 4 and FIG. 5,
preferably comprise a base portion 180 and a pole assembly 182,
preferably removably attached to the base portion 180, as shown.
Preferably, the pole assembly 182 comprises an upper electrified
ribbon reel portion 184 and a lower electrified ribbon reel portion
186, one coupling bar 160, two sets of upper receiving slots 166 and
two sets of lower receiving slots 168 (see FIG. 5), as shown. In
addition, at least one of the electrified ribbon reel portions (184
or 186) comprises an electric power compartment 157, as shown.
Preferably, the electric power compartment 157 functions to contain
the operational power components including batteries and "shocking"
circuits of the post. Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those of ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as intended use, cost, etc., alternate power arrangements,
such as providing a single internal power source to energize both
ribbons, supplying non-electric ribbons, utilizing alternate
deterrent methods such as sound, ribbon surface treatments (points
or spikes), etc., may suffice.
Preferably, the pole assembly 182 is adjustably attached to the base
portion 180, as shown. Preferably, the pole assembly 182 comprises a
hollow pipe portion 188 such that a spacer 190 having a smaller
diameter pipe portion 192 may be slipped inside the hollow pipe
portion 188 and secured, preferably using a locking pin 194 and
cotter-pin 196 arrangement (through aligned apertures 198), as
shown. Preferably, the spacer 190 has several apertures 198 to allow
an adjustable height for the floor-mount post 106. Upon reading the
teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the
art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering such issues as user preference, manufacturing and
economical considerations, etc., other methods of adjusting the
height of the floor-mount post 106, such as center post or top post
spacing members, etc., may suffice.
FIG. 6 shows a side view, partially in section, of the swivel base
200 mechanism of the floor-mount post 106 of FIG. 4. Preferably, the
base portion comprises a swivel base 200, as shown. Preferably, the
swivel base 200 connects to the pole assembly 182 or the spacer 190,
as shown. Preferably, the swivel base 200 can be tightened to the
pole assembly 182 with a tightening bolt 202 such that the pole
assembly 182 will remain vertical and sturdy. Upon reading the
teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the
art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering such issues as economics and design preferences, etc.,
other methods of connecting the swivel base to the pole assembly,
such as locking nuts and bolts, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, the tightening bolt 202 is loosened and the swivel base
200 can be swung in parallel to the pole assembly 182, more
compactly storing it along the trailer sidewall 116 as previously
discussed and as shown.
FIG. 7 shows a partial exploded perspective view of a representative
preferred electrified-ribbon reel portion, generally identified
herein as electrified ribbon reel system 210. Preferably,
electrified ribbon reel system 210 illustrates preferred functional
components of upper electrified ribbon reel portions 156 and lower
electrified ribbon reel portions 158 (and generally conform to the
preferred internal component arrangements of upper electrified
ribbon reel portion 184 and lower electrified ribbon reel portion
186). Preferably, the retractable electrified ribbon reel system 210
is situate within the electric post assemblies 102 as discussed
above (at least embodying herein wherein such reel means comprises
post means for assisting stable support of such plurality of
electrifiable sides and at least embodying herein wherein such at
least one reel comprises at least one post structured and arranged
to assist stable support of such plurality of electrifiable sides).
Preferably, the retractable electrified ribbon reel system 210
comprises a spring mechanism 212, a combined spring and stator
retainer 214, a first stator 216, a reel assembly 218, a second
stator 220, and a cap 222, as shown. Preferably, the first stator
216, reel assembly 218, and second stator 220 form a commutator
assembly 213 functioning to maintain an electrical coupling between
the electrified ribbon 124 and a self-contained power source 215
during operation (rotation) of the reel assembly 218.
To understand the preferred operation of the retractable electrified
ribbon reel system 210, it is helpful to first review the preferred
construction of the electrified ribbons 124. Reference is now made
to FIG. 11A and FIG. 11B. FIG. 11A shows a perspective view of the
deployable boundary member 110 of FIG. 1 and FIG. 11B shows a
sectional view through the section 11B-11B of FIG. 11A. Preferably,
each electrified ribbon 124 comprises a substantially flexible
substrate 131, as shown. Preferably, the substantially flexible
substrate 131 comprises at least one nonconductive material.
Preferably, flexible substrate 131 supports an upper electric wire
242 and a lower electric wire 244 in generally parallel arrangement,
as shown (at least embodying herein wherein such at least one
electrifiable ribbon comprises at least one first such at least one
electrical conductor and at least one second such at least one
electrical conductor). Preferably, the upper electric wire 242 and a
lower electric wire 244 are both positioned on electrified side 125,
and are electrically isolated from safety-side 127 by the
nonconductive material of flexible substrate 131, as shown. Upon
reading the teachings of this specification, those of ordinary skill
in the art will now understand that, under appropriate
circumstances, considering such issues as intended use, cost,
advances in technology, etc., other conductor arrangements, such as
bare wires, cables, multiple ribbons, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, the reel assembly 218 of FIG. 7 comprises a center axle
230 having two semi-circular portions 232 and 234. Preferably,
portion 232 supports an upper contact 236, preferably a conductive
material, and a lower contact 238, preferably a conductive material,
situate as shown, such that electrifiable ribbon 124, comprising the
previously described upper electric wire 242 and lower electric wire
244, may be coupled to a respective upper contact 236 and lower
contact 238. Preferably, a first end of the electrified ribbon 124
is placed along the center axle 230 such that the upper electric
wire 242 and a lower electric wire 244 may be coupled to a
respective upper contact 236 and lower contact 238 and then clamped
onto the center axle 230 by clamping together semi-circular portions
232 and 234, preferably with screws 246, as shown 9 at least
embodying herein wherein such at least one first end comprises at
least one first coupler structured and arranged to electrically
couple such at least one electrical conductor to such at least one
self-contained power source). Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as electrifiable ribbon thickness and economical
considerations, etc., other methods of coupling the electrifiable
ribbon to the post assembly, such as bolt-on, grooves, wire, tension
bands, adhesive, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, the upper contact 236 extends through the top 248 of the
reel assembly 218 just enough to come into contact with conducting
stator 220, as shown. Preferably, lower contact 238 extends through
the bottom 250 of the reel assembly 218 just enough to come into
contact with conducting stator 216, as shown. Preferably, center
axle 230 has an upper extension 252, preferably comprising a
rotating bearing 254 that rests within cap 222, as shown. Most
preferably, the reel assembly 218 rotates freely while being held in
a relatively stable longitudinal axis by the cap 222.
Preferably, center axle 230 has a lower extension 256, comprising a
slotted spring engager 258, as shown. Preferably, the slotted spring
engager 258 engages the end tongue 260 of spring mechanism 212, as
shown. Preferably, the spring mechanism 212 provides tension such
that the reel assembly 218 will rewind when not being held, for
example when the electrified ribbon 124 is released from coupling to
another post assembly 102.
Preferably, as described above, an electric current may be
transferred through the respective first stator 216 and second
stator 220 to the respective upper contact 236 and lower contact 238
and to the respective upper electric wire 242 and lower electric
wire 244, as shown. Preferably, first stator 216 and second stator
220 are electrically coupled to self-contained power source 215 by
means of internal supply circuits 223, as shown.
Preferably, the components, as described above, of the retractable
electrified ribbon reel system 210 nest together within the post
assembly 102, as shown. Most preferably, they nest within a
compartmented retractable electrified ribbon reel portion 270. In
such manner, those with ordinary skill in the art, upon reading the
teachings of this specification, will now understand without undue
experimentation, how the retractable electrified ribbon reel system
210 is coupled to the power source 140 to provide a retractable
electrified ribbon 124 and deployable boundary member 110. Upon
reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary
skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate
circumstances, considering such issues as economic considerations,
marketing considerations and user preferences, etc., other methods
of providing a deployable boundary member, such as fabric or plastic
deployable boundary members, etc., may suffice.
In an alternate preferred embodiment of the compartmented
retractable electrified ribbon reel portion 270, the operation of
the post assembly 102 is enabled by integrating a
commercially-available electrical cable reel into the post
structure. Such cable reels are generally used to store electrical
extension cords and drop-light cables. Preferably, such preferred
cable reels comprise a positive latching mechanism to allow the
deployable boundary member to be extended to any length required and
held in place. Preferably, a pull on the deployable boundary member
initiates the spring-powered retraction of the deployable boundary
member into the reel housing. Such preferred reels include an
internal commutator adapted to maintain a continuous electrical
circuit at the deployable boundary member during operation of the
reel. Preferably, a single self-contained power source 215,
preferably located within the post, can be used to energize one or
more reels. Construction of key portions of such a cable reel are
generally illustrated in Applicant's U.S. Pat. No. 7,101,186.
Reference is now made to FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B with continued
reference to the above Figures. FIG. 8A shows a perspective view,
partially in section, of a post assembly 102 to post assembly 102
coupling according to a preferred embodiment of the present
invention. FIG. 8B shows a sectional view through the section 8B-8B
of FIG. 8A. Preferably, as previously described in reference to FIG.
4, coupling tabs 162 will slidably fit into receiving coupling slots
166, such as located on the floor-mount posts 106, as shown.
FIG. 9 shows a partial side view of the post assembly 102 according
to the post assembly of FIG. 1. Preferably, the electric post
assemblies 102 may be assembled using compartmented retractable
electrified ribbon reel portions 270, as shown. In such manner, the
user or manufacturer may determine whether to utilize one or
multiple deployable boundary member portions such as the two-rail
portion described above using upper electrified ribbon reel portions
156 and 158.
Preferably, each compartmented retractable electrified ribbon reel
portion 270 is energized by a dedicated self-contained power source
215 located within an electric power compartment 157, as shown.
Alternately preferably, each compartmented retractable electrified
ribbon reel portion 270 is energized by a single common
self-contained power source 215 located within a single electric
power compartment 157. Alternately preferably, only one of the two
compartmented retractable electrified ribbon reel portions 270 is
energized by a dedicated self-contained power source 215 located
within an electric power compartment 157.
Preferably, compartmented retractable electrified ribbon reel
portion 270 would come in end pieces 272 or center pieces 274, as
shown. Preferably, connector portions 276 would be attached at or on
both ends of the compartmented retractable electrified ribbon reel
portion 270, as shown. Preferably, such connector portions 276
preferably comprise standardized sizes to enable system modularity,
as shown. Preferably, spacer portions 280 would be attached in
between such electrified ribbon reel portion 270, as shown.
Preferably, the connector portions 276 are secured to the spacer
portions 280 by screws (not shown) in aligned apertures 278 (when
the portions are connected). Furthermore, those with ordinary skill
in the art, upon reading the teachings of this specification, will
appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as animal height and user preferences, etc., other methods of
choosing electrified ribbon reel portions, such as manufacturing
multiple styles, etc., may suffice.
FIG. 10 shows a sectional view through the section 10-10 of FIG. 5
illustrating the preferred coupling arrangements of the electric
post assemblies 102.
FIG. 11A shows a schematic diagram of the deployable boundary member
and self-contained power source 215 according to the trailer
enclosure system of FIG. 1. Preferably, self-contained power source
215 functions to produce a high voltage pulse used to energize its
respective electrified ribbon 124, as shown. Preferably,
self-contained power source 215 comprises one or more primary or
secondary batteries 300 electrically coupled to control circuit 302
and step-up transformer 304, as shown.
Preferably, batteries 300 comprise one or more flashlight-type
batteries, such as, for example C-type cells or D-type cells, as
shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those of
ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as intended use,
cost, etc., other power arrangements, such as AC transformers, solar
cells, lantern batteries, etc., may suffice.
Power control circuit 302 preferably comprises a solid-state pulse
circuit, preferably adapted to generate several hundred volts from
the low-voltage current supplied by batteries 300. This higher
voltage may be used to charge, for example, a storage capacitor that
is preferably circuited to periodically discharge through the
primary windings 306 of the step-up transformer 304, as shown. Such
a discharge through the primary windings 306 preferably induces a
high-voltage in the secondary windings 308 that is preferably output
to commutator assembly 213, as shown. Commutator assembly 213 is
preferably coupled to electrified ribbon 124, as previously
described. A user controllable switch 310 may be included in the
circuit to control the operation of power control circuit 302, as
shown.
Alternately, those skilled in the art will now appreciate that
control circuit 302 may preferably comprise an electro-mechanical
spark coil as a preferred substitute to the above-described
solid-state device. Such a circuit would preferably comprise a set
of mechanical contacts in combination with a coil. Upon reading the
teachings of this specification, those of ordinary skill in the art
will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering such issues as intended use, cost, advances in
technology, etc., other circuiting arrangements, such as the use of
high-powered transistors, automotive-type spark coils, flyback
transformers, solid-state switches, sensing circuits, fuses, battery
saving/charging circuits, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, upper electric wire 242 is coupled to at least one
positive electrical potential of self-contained power source 215 and
lower electric wire 244 is coupled to at least one negative
electrical potential of self-contained power source 215, as shown.
Preferably, upper electric wire 242 and lower electric wire 244 are
electrically isolated and normally comprise an open circuit, as
shown. Preferably, contact between the upper electric wire 242 and
the lower electric wire 244 by the animal closes the circuit thus
delivering a brief "jolt" of electric current used to deter the
animal from crossing the deployable boundary member 110.
FIG. 11B shows a sectional view through the section 11B-11B of FIG.
11A showing a preferred arrangements of the electrified ribbon 124.
Preferably,
FIG. 12 shows a top view of the alternate trailer enclosure system
500 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
Preferably, the trailer enclosure system 500 comprises a set of post
assemblies 502 (at least embodying herein polygon fence means,
having a plurality of electrifiable sides, for restraining the at
least one animal; and at least embodying herein at least one polygon
fence, having a plurality of electrifiable sides, structured and
arranged to restrain the at least one animal) preferably including
wall mount posts 504, floor-mount posts 506 and interconnecting
rails 508, most preferably deployable boundary members 510,
(including a power source 540) as shown. Preferably, the floor-mount
post 506 comprises an outer construction substantially similar to
that of the floor-mount post 506. Preferably, the wall mount posts
504 are attached to one side wall 116 of the trailer 112 in a manner
substantially similar to that of the wall mount posts 104 (this
arrangement at least embodies herein wherein such at least one of
such plurality of electrifiable sides of such polygon fence means
are structured and arranged to abut the at least one side wall; and
it at least embodies herein wherein such at least one of such
plurality of electrifiable sides of such at least one polygon fence
are structured and arranged to abut the at least one side wall),
such as the horse trailer 114 illustrated in FIG. 1. Preferably,
such horse trailers 114 are fully enclosed or have at least four
sides, as shown (at least embodying herein animal transport means,
having at least one side wall, for transporting the at least one
animal; and at least embodying herein at least one animal transport,
having at least one side wall for transporting the at least one
animal).
Preferably, the post assemblies 502 can be interconnected to create
a single enclosure or, divided into multiple areas 532 and 534, as
shown. As in the prior embodiment, preferably, the wall mount posts
504 are permanently attached to the trailer side wall 116, as shown.
Preferably, the floor-mount posts 506 are held to the ground or
floor surface (asphalt, dirt, etc.) by temporary means only.
Preferably, the trailer enclosure system 500 comprises a single
common power source 540, preferably a battery 542, preferably
twelve-volt, preferably located within the trailer 112 or from a
power extension 544 connected to a power source such as a
trailer-pulling vehicle or generator.
Preferably, the power source 540 is coupled to a power controller
546, as shown. Preferably, power controller 546 functions to produce
a high voltage pulse used to energize the post assemblies 502 and is
substantially similar in concept to the diagram of FIG. 11A.
Preferably, power controller 546 is preferably coupled through power
conductors 548, which preferably run from the power source 540 to
the power controller 546 and to the deployable boundary members 510
(at least embodying herein wherein such conductor means comprises at
least one ribbon portion and at least embodying herein wherein such
at least one conductor comprises at least one ribbon portion), as
shown. Preferably, the power controller 546 provides a user with
controls to adjust the voltage/amperage of the deployable boundary
members 510 and provides a fuse mechanism to protect the animals.
Preferably, the power controller is coupled to the wall mount posts
504, preferably through power conductors 550, as shown. Preferably,
the power controller 546 further comprises an exterior mounted
on/off switch 552, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as economics and user preferences, etc., other methods of
controlling the voltage/amperage, such as in-line controllers, etc.,
may suffice. Furthermore, those with ordinary skill in the art, upon
reading the teachings of this specification, will appreciate that,
under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as
electrical code requirements and safety, etc., other methods of
switching and power transfer, etc., may suffice.
FIG. 13 shows a side view, partially in section, of the alternate
post assembly 502 according to another preferred embodiment of FIG.
12. Preferably, the post assemblies 502 may be assembled using
compartmented retractable electrified ribbon reel portions 570, as
shown. In such manner, the user or manufacturer may determine
whether to utilize one or multiple deployable boundary member
portions. Preferably, compartmented retractable electrified ribbon
reel portion 670 would come in end pieces 572 or center pieces 574,
as shown. Preferably, connector portions 576, preferably of
standardized sizes, would be attached at or on both ends of the
compartmented retractable electrified ribbon reel portion 670, as
shown. Preferably, spacer portions 580 would be attached in between
such electrified ribbon reel portion 670, as shown.
FIG. 14 shows a partial perspective view, of a
post-assembly-to-post-assembly coupling according to the preferred
embodiment of FIG. 12. FIG. 15 shows a sectional top view through
the section 15-15 of FIG. 14.
Preferably, the coupling bar 560 of the trailer enclosure system 500
assists a user in pulling out the retractable electrified ribbon 524
and in coupling the retractable electrified ribbon 524 (at least
embodying herein at least one electrified fence rail portion) to
another post assembly 502 (this arrangement at least embodying
herein wherein such at least one first post comprises at least one
first coupler adapted to couple such at least one electrified fence
rail portion to such at least one second post). Preferably, the
coupling bar 560 comprises an upper tab 562 and a lower tab 564
which will slidably fit into preferably-matching upper receiving
coupling slot 566 and lower receiving coupling slot 568, preferably
located on the floor-mount posts 506.
Preferably, each respective upper tab 562 and lower tab 564 further
comprises electrical contact points 570 and 572 that will match-up
with electrical contact points 574 and 576 (respectively) on
matching receiving slot 566 and receiving slot 568, as shown. In
such manner, when then upper tab 562 and lower tab 564 are coupled
to the matching upper receiving coupling slot 566 and lower
receiving coupling slot 568, the power source 540 is transferred
from one post assembly 502 (embodying herein at least one first
post) to another post assembly 502 (at least embodying herein at
least one second post), as shown. This arrangement at least embodies
herein wherein such at least one first coupler comprises at least
one second coupler structured and arranged to electrically couple
such at least one first portion of the at least one electrified
fence rail portion to at least one second post. In such manner, as
described above, multiple post assemblies may be connected to form
an enclosure and to provide a deployable boundary member 510 between
each post assembly 502. This arrangement at least embodies herein
whereby a plurality of such at least one electrified fence rail
portions may be coupled together and stably supported by such at
least one first post and such at least one second post.
Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with
ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as enclosure
height and animal size, etc., more or less than two electrified
ribbon portions, etc., may suffice.
FIG. 16 shows a sectional view through the section 16-16 of FIG. 14.
Preferably, as previously described in reference to FIG. 14,
coupling tabs 562 will slidably fit into receiving coupling slots
566, such as located on the floor-mount posts 506, as shown.
Preferably, each respective tab 562 comprises electrical contact
points 570 and 572 that will match-up with respective electrical
contact points 574 and 576 on the receiving coupling slot 566, as
shown. In such manner, when then coupling bar 560 is coupled to the
receiving coupling slots 566, the power source is transferred from
one post assembly 502 to another post assembly 502, as shown.
FIG. 17 shows an exploded perspective view, partially in section, of
the retractable electrified ribbon reel system 610 shown as upper
electrified ribbon reel portions 556 and lower electrified ribbon
reel portions 558 of the post assemblies 502 of FIG. 13 and FIG. 14.
Preferably, the retractable electrified ribbon reel system 610 is
situate within the post assemblies 502 as discussed above (at least
embodying herein wherein such reel means comprises post means for
assisting stable support of such plurality of electrifiable sides
and at least embodying herein wherein such at least one reel
comprises at least one post structured and arranged to assist stable
support of such plurality of electrifiable sides). Preferably, the
retractable electrified ribbon reel system 610 comprises a spring
mechanism 612, a combined spring and stator retainer 614, a first
stator 616, a reel assembly 618, a second stator 620, a cap 622, two
upper receiving coupling slot 566 and two sets of electrical contact
screws 626 and 628, as shown.
Preferably, the reel assembly 618 comprises a center axle 630 having
two semi-circular portions 632 and 634. Preferably, portion 632
comprises an upper contact 636, preferably copper and a lower
contact 638, preferably copper, situate as shown, such that
electrified ribbon 124 with an upper electric wire 242 and a lower
electric wire 244 may be coupled to a respective upper contact 636
and lower contact 638. Preferably, the electrified ribbon 124 is
placed along the center axle 630 such that the upper electric wire
242 and a lower electric wire 244 may be coupled to a respective
upper contact 636 and lower contact 638 and then clamped onto the
center axle 630 by clamping together semi-circular portions 632 and
634, preferably with screws 646, as shown. Upon reading the
teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the
art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering such issues as electrifiable ribbon thickness and
economical considerations, etc., other methods of coupling the
electrified ribbon to the post assembly, such as bolt-on, grooves,
wire, tension bands, adhesive, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, the upper contact 636 extends through the top 648 of the
reel assembly 618 just enough to come into contact with conducting
stator 620, as shown. Preferably, lower contact 638 extends through
the bottom 650 of the reel assembly 618 just enough to come into
contact with conducting stator 616, as shown. Preferably, center
axle 630 has an upper extension 652, preferably comprising a
rotating bearing 654 that rests within cap 622, as shown. Most
preferably, the reel assembly 618 rotates freely while being held in
a relatively stable longitudinal axis by the cap 622.
Preferably, center axle 630 has a lower extension 656, comprising a
slotted spring engager 658, as shown. Preferably, the slotted spring
engager 658 engages the end tongue 660 of spring mechanism 612, as
shown. Preferably, the spring mechanism 612 provides tension such
that the reel assembly 618 will rewind when not being held, for
example when the electrifiable ribbon 636 is released from coupling
to another post assembly 502.
Preferably, as described above, an electric current may be
transferred through the respective contact screws 626 and 628 to the
respective first stator 616 and second stator 620 to the respective
upper contact 636 and lower contact 638 and to the respective upper
electric wire 242 and lower electric wire 244, as shown.
Preferably, the components, as described above, of the retractable
electrified ribbon reel system 610 nest together within the post
assembly 502, as shown. Most preferably, they nest within a
compartmented retractable electrified ribbon reel portion 670. In
such manner, those with ordinary skill in the art, upon reading the
teachings of this specification, will now understand without undue
experimentation, how the retractable electrified ribbon reel system
610 is coupled to the power source 540 to provide a retractable
electrified ribbon 124 and deployable boundary member 510. Upon
reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary
skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate
circumstances, considering such issues as economic considerations,
marketing considerations and user preferences, etc., other methods
of providing an deployable boundary member, such as fabric or
plastic deployable boundary members, etc., may suffice.
Although applicant has described applicant's preferred embodiments
of this invention, it will be understood that the broadest scope of
this invention includes such modifications as diverse shapes and
sizes and materials. Such scope is limited only by the below claims
as read in connection with the above specification.
Further, many other advantages of applicant's invention will be
apparent to those skilled in the art from the above descriptions and
the below claims.
* * * * *
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