US20060081827A1

US20060081827A1 - Fence

Info

Publication number: US20060081827A1
Application number: US11/228,052
Authority: US
Inventors: L. Strong; Robert Astle; Kent Ashby; Katie Staples
Original assignee: Lifetime Products Inc
Priority date: 2004-09-15
Filing date: 2005-09-15
Publication date: 2006-04-20

Abstract

A fence may include one or more fence panels and the fence panels are preferably constructed from blow-molded plastic. The fence panels may include a support structure that is sized and configured to support the fence panels. The fence may also include a mower strip to obstruct plant growth proximate the fence. The mower strip is preferably constructed of plastic and it may be integrally formed with the fence panels. The fence may include one or more filler fence panels. Advantageously, the filler fence panels may be sized and configured to support and/or position the fence panels above an uneven surface.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/610,515, filed Sep. 15, 2004 and entitled FENCE, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention generally relates to fences, boundaries, boarders and other types of barriers, and, in particular, to fences constructed from metal and/or plastic.
2. Description of Related Art
Conventional fences are made from many different types of materials. For example, many conventional fences are constructed from wood. Conventional wooden fences typically have an attractive initial appearance, but maintaining that initial appearance may require significant effort because of exposure of the wood to the elements. For example, conventional wooden fences must be periodically repainted or restained. In addition, conventional wooden fences may rot or deteriorate over time. Accordingly, the rotted or damaged portion of the fence may have to be repaired or replaced. Thus, conventional wooden fences frequently require periodic maintenance, which is time consuming and may be relatively expensive. Furthermore, conventional wooden fences may be difficult to install and skilled artisans may be required, which may increase costs and expenses.
Known fences are also constructed from vinyl. Conventional vinyl fences may also have an initially attractive appearance, but these fences may deteriorate and/or discolor over time. For example, many conventional vinyl fences can become brittle from exposure to certain weather conditions, such as prolonged exposure to sunlight. Moisture, such as water from a sprinkling system, may also discolor many conventional vinyl fences. Further, many conventional vinyl fences are not very strong and may be damaged from various types of impacts. In addition, many conventional vinyl fences are not securely connected together or fixed in a stationary position and may be damaged, for example, by a sudden gust of wind. Disadvantageously, it may be difficult and expensive to repair and/or replace portions of a conventional vinyl fence.
It is also known to construct all or a portion of a fence from concrete. Conventional fences constructed from concrete are typically very expensive install, repair, replace and remove. In addition, many conventional concrete fences require skilled artisans to install, repair, replace and/or remove a concrete fence. Further, many individuals are unable to install or remove a conventional concrete fence by themselves so they are required to hire others for assistance.
Conventional fences are often installed around a person's lawn or garden. Disadvantageously, many conventional fences disrupt or hinder a person from taking care of their lawn or garden. For example, many conventional fences increase the difficulty of mowing the lawn. In particular, many people have grass growing next to or proximate the fence. Most conventional lawn mowers, however, are unable to cut the grass close to the fence. Accordingly, that portion of the grass may not be cut by the lawn mover and a grass trimmer may have to be used to cut that portion of the grass, which undesirably increases the amount of time to mow the lawn. In addition, many conventional grass trimmers may damage the fence if the trimmer inadvertently contacts the fence. To prevent grass from growing proximate the fence, it is known to place a concrete curb or mow strip along the fence, but this can be rather costly and time consuming. The concrete curb or mow strip may also be rather unattractive and it may make the fence more difficult to install and/or remove.

SUMMARY

A need therefore exists for a fence that eliminates or diminishes the above-described disadvantages and problems.
One aspect is a fence or barrier that may be constructed from relatively lightweight materials. For example, all or a portion of the fence may be constructed from plastic. Advantageously, the lightweight materials may allow the fence to be easily moved and transported. The lightweight materials may also allow the fence to be easier to install and remove.
Another aspect is a fence that may be constructed from blow-molded plastic. Advantageously, the fence may contain hollow interior portions that are formed during the blow-molding process, which may allow a light-weight fence to be constructed. In addition, if the fence is constructed from blow-molded plastic, then the blow-molded plastic portions may be relatively easily formed into many different desired shapes, sizes, configurations and designs depending, for example, upon the intended use and/or configuration of the fence. Significantly, all or a portion of the fence may be constructed from blow-molded plastic.
Still another aspect is a fence that may be generally maintenance free. In particular, the fence preferably does not require any significant maintenance over time or any periodic maintenance. For example, the fence preferably does not require any painting, staining or the like. Advantageously, if the fence is constructed from blow-molded plastic, then the fence may require very little, if any, maintenance. Thus, for instance, if the fence is constructed from the blow-molded plastic, then the fence may be constructed from plastic with a specific color and the fence never has to be painted.
Yet another aspect is a fence that may be attractive and/or include an eye-catching design. If desired, these various features and designs can be integrally formed as part of the fence. For example, if the fence is constructed from blow-molded plastic panels, various features and designs can be integrally formed in the panels as part of a unitary, one-piece structure. In particular, one or both sides of the blow-molded plastic panels may include a design. Advantageously, the design on the sides of the panels may be the same or different, which may increase the versatility and potential uses of the fence. In addition, because blow-molded plastic panels may be formed into many different shapes, sizes, configurations and designs, that may allow many different shapes, sizes, configurations and designs of fences to be constructed.
A further aspect is a fence that may have enhanced visual appeal. In particular, a fence constructed from blow-molded plastic may have a stronger and/or sturdier appearance than a conventional fence. Thus, the fence may desirably have a more rugged or durable appearance.
A still further aspect is a fence that may include one or more components that are constructed from blow-molded plastic. Advantageously, the blow-molded plastic components may be generally weather resistant and temperature insensitive, which may allow the fence to be used in a wide variety of locations and environments. In addition, the blow-molded plastic fence may be durable and long-lasting because it generally does not corrode, rust or otherwise deteriorate over time. Further, the blow-molded plastic fence may be generally waterproof and/or windproof, which may also allow the fence to be used in a wide range of locations and environments.
Still yet another aspect is a fence that may be relatively strong and impact resistant. For example, the fence may be constructed from blow-molded plastic components and this may allow the fence to withstand relatively large forces or impacts without being damaged. For example, the fence may be able to withstand repeated impacts with balls, toys, bicycles and the like without being damaged. Advantageously, this may help prevent the fence from being damaged by children, pets and the like.
A fence including components constructed from blow-molded plastic may be relatively strong because the blow-molded plastic components may include two opposing walls or surfaces that are separated by a given distance. The opposing walls may help create a strong, high-strength and rigid fence. In addition, a relatively lightweight fence may be constructed because the interior portion of the blow-molded plastic components may include a hollow interior portion. While the opposing walls of the fence are preferably separated by a generally constant distance, the walls can be separated by any suitable distance.
Still another aspect is a fence that may be constructed from blow-molded plastic and the blow-molded plastic components may include one or more depressions or “tack-offs.” The depressions, which may extend from one surface towards another surface, are desirably sized and configured to increase the strength and/or rigidity of the fence. Preferably, the depressions extend from one surface and contact or engage an opposing surface, but the depressions do not have to contact or engage another surface. Advantageously, the depressions may form part of a design or pattern formed in the fence, and the design or pattern may minimize and/or hide the depressions from view. In addition, the depressions may be formed in one or both sides of the fence. If the depressions are formed in both sides of the fence, the depressions may be generally aligned. At least a portion of these opposing depressions may contact or engage each other, but the opposing depressions do not have to touch or engage.
Significantly, a fence constructed from blow-molded plastic components may be relatively quickly and easily constructed. For example, the blow-molding process may allow opposing walls, depressions and other desired features to be quickly and easily formed. In addition, the blow-molded plastic components may allow the fence to be quickly and easily assembled. Further, the blow-molded plastic components may allow portions of the fence to be easily repaired, removed and/or replaced.
Advantageously, if the fence is constructed using blow-molded plastic components, then the blow-molded components may allow a strong and sturdy fence to be constructed. For example, the blow-molded plastic components may include opposing walls and depressions, which may allow the components to be constructed with relatively thin outer walls. Significantly, this may reduce the amount of plastic required to construct the components, which may reduce manufacturing costs and the amount of required resources. The thin outer walls may also allow the components to be cooled more quickly during the manufacturing process, which may allow the fence to be manufactured more quickly and efficiently.
Additionally, because the fence may be constructed using blow-molded plastic components with thin outer walls, this may allow a fence with reduced weight to be constructed. Significantly, the lightweight fence may be more easily transported, which may decrease shipping costs. Additionally, the consumer may appreciate the reduced weight because they can much more easily move and/or assemble the fence. Further, the lightweight components may allow the fence easier to install, repair and remove.
A further aspect is a fence that may be constructed from blow-molded plastic and one or more features may be integrally formed in the fence as part of a unitary, one-piece structure. For example, one or more connectors, fasteners, receiving portions and the like may be integrally formed in the blow-molded plastic components. Advantageously, this may reduce the number of steps required in the manufacturing process, which may reduce the overall cost of the fence. This may also make the fence easier to assemble and install.
Another aspect is a fence that may include portions that are constructed from plastic, such as blow-molded plastic, and other portions that are constructed from other materials such as metal. This may allow a more decorative or attractive fence to be created. For example, the fence may include ornamental metal components that are attached to upper and/or lower portions of a blow-molded plastic panel. The fence could also include metal components that are structural portions of the fence and/or metal components that allow the fence to be more quickly and easily assembled and installed. Advantageously, the metal portions may be disposed inside and/or outside the blow-molded plastic portions. Thus, the metal portions could be disposed within the bow-molded plastic portions so that the metal portions are not visible or outside the blow-molded plastic portions so that the metal portions are visible.
A still further aspect is a fence that may include one or more features or aspects, such as mow strips, that can readily be connected to the fence or are formed as part of the fence. For example, the fence may be sized and configured to allow features such as mow strips to be easily attached to or positioned near the fence. On the other hand, features such as mow strips may be integrally formed as a unitary part of the fence. Advantageously, this may allow the fence to be easily assembled and/or constructed.
Yet another aspect is a fence that may include a plurality of panels which may be interconnected. For example, the fence may include panels that are about eight to ten inches in width and four to six feet in height. The panels may be interconnected to form the fence. Advantageously, the fence may be constructed with a wide variety of different types and sizes of panels. For example, the panels may be larger or smaller. In addition, the panels may be different designs, colors, textures and the like. If desired, the panels may be mixed and matched for texture and variety. In addition, the panels may allow the fence to more easily follow the contour of the ground. Of course, the panels could have various suitable designs and configurations depending, for example, upon the intended use of the fence.
Still another aspect is a fence that may include one or more connectors or connecting portions that are sized and configured to interconnect one or more panels. The connectors or connecting portions, for example, may allow the panels to be slidably or rotatably connected. The connectors or connecting portions may also connect the panels by a friction, snap or interference fit. Advantageously, the connectors or connecting portions may allow the panels to be quickly and easily connected. The connectors or connecting portions may be connected using any suitable type of fasteners such as screws, bolts and the like.
Still yet another aspect is a fence that may include one or more supports that are sized and configured to support the fence. For example, the supports may be positioned between adjacent panels and the supports may allow or facilitate connection of the panels. Advantageously, the supports may form a part of a support frame and the frame and/or supports may allow the panels to be interconnected. Further, the frame and/or supports may allow covers, caps, finials and the like to be connected to the fence.
These and other aspects, features and advantages of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments of the invention and the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The appended drawings contain figures of preferred embodiments to further clarify the above and other aspects, advantages and features of the present invention. It will be appreciated that these drawings depict only preferred embodiments of the invention and are not intended to limits its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:
FIG. 1 is a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a section of a fence;
FIG. 2 is a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a support structure that may be used to construct or support a section of a fence;
FIG. 3 is a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a section of a fence and an accompanying support structure;
FIG. 4 is a front view of an exemplary configuration of a plurality of sections of a fence;
FIG. 5 is a cross sectional side view of an exemplary embodiment of a mower strip;
FIG. 6 is a cross sectional side view of an exemplary embodiment of a section of a fence, a mower strip and a support structure;
FIG. 7 is a front view of another exemplary embodiment of a plurality of fence sections;
FIG. 8 is a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a filler panel;
FIG. 9 is a side view of the filler panel shown in FIG. 8;
FIG. 10 is a side view of a portion of a fence section shown in FIG. 7;
FIG. 11 is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a portion of a fence panel, a filler panel and a mower strip;
FIG. 12 is a front view of yet another exemplary configuration of a plurality of sections of a fence;
FIG. 13 is a top view of a portion of the fence shown in FIG. 12; and
FIG. 14 is a top view of still another exemplary embodiment of a portion of a fence.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The present invention is generally directed towards a fence. The principles of the present invention, however, are not limited to fences. It will be understood that, in light of the present disclosure, the structures disclosed herein can be successfully used in connection with other types of structures, barriers, boundaries, boarders, fixtures, equipment and the like.
Additionally, to assist in the description of the fence, words such as top, bottom, front, rear, right and left may be used to describe the accompanying figures. It will be appreciated, however, that the fence can be located in a variety of desired positions and angles. A detailed description of the fence now follows.
As shown in the accompanying figures and described in greater detail below, a fence may include a plurality of sections that are interconnected to form the fence. For example, the fence may include a plurality of panels and support structures that are interconnected to construct the desired type and configuration of fence. Advantageously, the panels and/or support structures may have a variety of shapes, configurations and designs, and the panels and/or support structures may be connected in various suitable arrangements, which may allow various types and sizes of fences to be constructed. This may allow the fence to be used in a wide variety of locations and environments.
Various portions of the fence, such as the panels and support structures, may be constructed from lightweight materials such as plastic. For example, the panels may be constructed from high density polyethylene and formed using a blow-molding process. Advantageously, the blow-molded panels may include a hollow interior portion, which may allow the weight of the panels to be decreased. The panels, however, could be constructed from any materials with appropriate characteristics and using any suitable process.
The blow-molded plastic panels may be relatively lightweight, which may be advantageous to manufacturers, retailers and consumers. For example, a manufacturer or a retailer may have reduced shipping costs associated with the lightweight, blow-molded plastic panels. The lightweight, blow-molded plastic panels may also be more conveniently moved or stored. In addition, the blow-molded plastic panels may allow the fence to be moved and constructed with fewer persons, which may make it a more desirable option for consumers.
The blow-molded plastic panels may also be resistant to weather conditions, such as heat, cold, rain, snow, and the like. Accordingly, the weather-resistant, blow-molded plastic panels may be used to construct a fence that lasts longer than conventional fences constructed of weather-sensitive materials. Although blow-molded plastic panels may have advantages, it will be appreciated that the panels could be constructed from other suitable material (such as wood, metals, plastics, composites, and the like) having desired characteristics.
As shown in FIG. 1, an exemplary section of a fence 10 may include one or more generally vertical portions (such as post portions 12) and may include one or more generally horizontal portions (such as cross portions 14). Each of the exemplary sections of the fence 10 may include one or more panels 16. Desirably, the post portions 12, the cross portions 14 and the panels 16 are at least partially interconnected for form the sections of the fence 10.
The post portions 12, the cross portions 14 and/or the panels 16 may be formed as an integral part of a unitary, one-piece fence section 10. Advantageously, the post portions 12, the cross portions 14 and/or the panels 16 may be constructed from plastic and formed as a unitary, one-piece structure during a blow-molding process. It will be appreciated that the post portions 12, the cross portions 14, and/or the panels 16 could also be formed as separate pieces and these components could be constructed from other suitable materials and processes depending, for example, upon the intended use of the fence. It will also be appreciated that the post portions 12, the cross portions 14 and the panels 16 may have various suitable sizes, configurations, designs and arrangements.
The fence sections 10 may include one or more support members and the support members may be sized and configured to increase the strength and/or structural integrity of the fence sections. For example, as seen in FIGS. 2 and 3, the fence section 10 may include a support structure 18 such as a frame. The support structure 18 may include vertical support members 20 and horizontal support members 22. For example, the support structure 18 may include a first vertical support member 20 disposed proximate a first side and a second vertical support member disposed proximate a second side. The support structure 18 may also include a first horizontal support member 22 disposed proximate the upper ends of the vertical support members 20; a second horizontal support member disposed proximate the middle portions of the vertical support members; and a third horizontal support member disposed proximate the lower ends of the vertical support members. Desirably, the vertical support members 20 and the horizontal support members 22 are at least partially interconnected to form the support structure, but these components do not have to be interconnected.
As shown in FIG. 3, the support structure 18 may be used to support a portion of the fence 10. For example, the vertical support members 20 may be located proximate to and/or within the post portions 12. In addition, the horizontal support members 22 may respectively be located proximate to and/or within the cross portions 14. Advantageously, the support structure 18 may be used to create a strong and sturdy fence 10. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the fence sections 10 and the support structure 18 may have a variety of suitable arrangements and configurations depending, for example, upon the size, design and type of fence to be constructed. For example, the support structure 18 may include any suitable number of vertical and horizontal support members 20, 22, and these members could have any suitable configuration and arrangement. One of ordinary skill in the art will also appreciate that the fence sections 10 do not require the support structure 18.
The support structure 18 is preferably constructed from relatively strong or high-strength materials to allow, for example, a strong and sturdy fence to be constructed. In particular, the support members 20, 22 are preferably constructed of metal, such as steel, or other relatively strong materials. The support members 20, 22 preferably have a relatively long length to support a large portion of the fence. For instance, the support members 20, 22 may consist of an elongated rail, a post, tubular member or the like. The support members 20, 22 are preferably generally straight, but the support members may also be angled, curved or the like. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the support structure 18 and the support members 20, 22 may have a variety of suitable designs, shapes and configurations depending upon the intended use of the fence. Further, the support structure 18 and the support members 20, 22 may be constructed from other suitable materials having suitable characteristics.
As shown in FIG. 4, a plurality of fence section 10 may be disposed proximate to each other and interconnected to form a fence 24. Advantageously, if the fence is intended to extend over a large area, then the fence sections 10 may be relatively large. For example, the fence sections 10 may have a length of eight to ten feet and a height of six to eight feet. On the other hand, if the fence is intended to extend over a small area, then the fence sections 10 may be relatively small. For example, the fence sections 10 may a width of eight to twelve includes and a height of six to eight feet. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the fence 24 may include fence sections 10 that are larger or smaller depending, for example, upon the intended use of the fence.
Advantageously, the fence 24 may include one or more features that are formed as part of the fence or that can be connected to the fence. For example, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the fence may include a mower strip 26 that is sized and configured to facilitate mowing proximate the fence. Significantly, the mower strip 26 may be integrally with a section of the fence 10 as part of a one-piece structure. On the other hand, the mower strip 26 may be connected to the fence, if desired.
In greater detail, as shown in FIG. 5, the mower strip 26 may include a first side portion 28, a bottom portion 30, a second side portion 32 and a receiving portion 34. The receiving portion 34 may be sized and configured to receive a portion of the fence, such as the support member 22. The first side portion 28, the bottom portion 30 and the second side portion 32 are preferably sized and configured to obstruct grass growth proximate the bottom of the fence. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the side portions 28 and 32 may extend outwardly from the fence section 10 to create a buffer or space about the fence. Advantageously, this may permit a conventional lawn mower to cut most, if not all, of the grass because the edge of the lawn is spaced from the section of the fence 10. The mower strip 36 preferably includes side portions 28, 32 that extend about 3 to 6 inches beyond the front and rear faces of the sections of the fence 10. It will be appreciated that the mower strip 26 may also be larger or smaller, and it may extend only outwardly from one side of the fence if desired.
The mower strip 26 may be constructed of a lightweight material, such as plastic. Preferably, the mower strip 26 is constructed of high density polyethylene and the mower strip is constructed using a blow-molding process. In addition, the mower strip 26 is preferably formed as a unitary, one-piece structure, which may help prevent the undesirable growth of grass and/or weeds about the various sections of the fence 10. While the mover strip 26 is preferably constructed from blow-molded plastic, it will be appreciated that the mower strip may be constructed from other suitable materials and processes.
The blow-molded plastic mower strip 26 may be relatively lightweight, which may provide advantages to manufacturers, retailers, and consumers. For example, a manufacturer or a retailer may have reduced shipping costs associated with the lightweight, blow-molded plastic mower strip. The blow-molded plastic mower strip 26 may also be more conveniently moved, stored and installed. Additionally, the blow-molded plastic mower strip 26 may be weather and impact resistant. Although the blow-molded plastic mower strip 26 has advantages, it will be appreciated that the mower strip 26 could be constructed from other suitable materials and processes.
As shown in FIG. 7, two or more sections 10 may be interconnected to form a fence 36. Advantageously, the sections 10 may be installed on a sloped surface 38. In order to install the fence 36 on the sloped surface 38, the sections of the fence 10 may be disposed in a generally horizontal configuration and one or more filler panels 40 may be disposed between the fence sections 10 and the surface 38. In particular, as shown in FIG. 8, the filler panels 40 may include an upper portion 42 that is sized and configured to contact, abut and/or engage at least a portion of a fence section 10, and a lower portion 44 that is sized and configured to contact, abut and/or engage at least a portion of the surface 38. Preferably, the lower portion 44 has the same general configuration as the surface 38, but the filler panels 40 may have any suitable configuration. The filler panels 40 are also preferably constructed from blow-molded plastic, but these panels can be constructed from other suitable materials and processes.
The filler panels 40 are preferably sized and configured to be securely attached to suitable portions of the fence 10. For example, as shown in FIGS. 9-11, the filler panels 40 may be sized and configured to be securely connected to sections of the fence 10 by a snap fit, an interference fit, a friction fit or the like. In particular, the filler panel 40 may include engaging members 46 that are sized and configured to engage an engaging member 48 of the fence sections 10. This may allow, for example, the filler panel 40 to be slidably to a section of the fence 10. Of course, the filler panel 40 may be connected to the fence 10 in other suitable fashion and arrangements, such as by using adhesives, fasteners, and the like. Further, the filler panels 40 could be integrally formed as part of the sections of the fence 10. As shown in FIG. 11, the filler panel 40 may be sized and configured to be connected to, or formed integrally with, a mower strip 26.
As shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, another exemplary embodiment of a fence 52 includes a plurality of sections 50 that may be interconnected. In greater detail, the sections of the fence 50 may include panels that are interconnected to form the fence 52. Preferably, the panels 50 are about 8 inches to about 12 inches in width, and about 4 feet to about 6 feet in height. Advantageously, this may allow the fence 52 to be constructed on uneven ground or surfaces. Thus, for example, the panels 50 could be disposed at different locations, heights and/or arrangements depending upon the configuration of the ground or surface. In addition, the panels 50 could have different heights, sizes and configurations depending, for example, upon the configuration of the ground or surface. It will be appreciated that the panels 50 may also have varying designs and varying dimensions, but could have similar or the same designs and dimensions. Also, the panels 50 may have other suitable constructions, configurations, or compositions.
As shown in FIG. 13, the panels 50 may be connected at an angle. The panels 50 may also be connected in a straight line or in other suitable positions. The panels 50 may also include or be attached to mower strips 26, if desired. Further, the panels 50 may be sized and configured to be interconnected. Advantageously, the panels 50 may be interconnected without requiring the use of fasteners such as screws or bolts. In will be appreciated, however, that fasteners may be used to connect the panels 50.
In greater detail, as shown in FIG. 14, the panels 50 may include a first engaging member 54 proximate a first end of the panel and a second engaging member 56 proximate a second end of the panel. Preferably, the engaging members 54, 56 are sized and configured to engage each other to permit the panels 50 to be connected. In particular, the engaging member 56 may include retaining members 58, 60 that are sized and configured to form a receiving portion 62. The engaging member 54 may be sized and configured to be received into the receiving portion 62. If desired, the retaining members 58, 60 may move, deform, deflect or otherwise move from their initial positions as the retaining member 54 is inserted into the receiving portion 62. The retaining members 58, 60 may then elastically return to those initial positions after the engaging member 54 is received into the receiving portion 62. It will be appreciated that panels 50 may also be connected using a snap fit, a friction fit, an interference fit, adhesives, fasteners, or any other suitable devices.
One skilled in the art will appreciate that although the exemplary embodiments discussed above have been described with respect to fences, these aspects and features may also be used in connection with any other suitable types of structures, devices or fixtures.
Although this invention has been described in terms of certain preferred embodiments, other embodiments apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art are also within the scope of this invention. Accordingly, the scope of the invention is intended to be defined only by the claims which follow.

Claims

1. A fence comprising:

a fence panel constructed from blow-molded plastic, the fence panel including a hollow interior portion formed during the blow-molding process;

a first support member constructed from metal and at least partially disposed within the hollow interior portion of the fence panel;

a second support member constructed from metal and at least partially disposed within the hollow interior portion of the fence panel; and

a third support member constructed from metal and at least partially disposed within the hollow interior portion of the fence panel, the third support member interconnecting the first and second support members, the third support member including a first portion connected to the first support member and a second portion connected to the second support member.

2. The fence as in claim 1, wherein first support member is positioned in a generally horizontal orientation, the second support member is positioned in a generally horizontal orientation, and the third support member is positioned in a generally vertical orientation.

3. The fence as in claim 1, wherein first support member is positioned in a generally vertical orientation, the second support member is positioned in a generally vertical orientation, and the third support member is positioned in a generally horizontal orientation.

4. The fence as in claim 1, further comprising:

a fourth support member constructed from metal and at least partially disposed within the generally hollow interior portion of the fence panel, the fourth support member interconnecting the first and second support members, the fourth support member including a first portion connected to the first support member and a second portion connected to the second support member.

5. The fence as in claim 1, further comprising:

a fourth support member constructed from metal and at least partially disposed within the generally hollow interior portion of the fence panel, the fourth support member interconnecting the first and second support members, the fourth support member including a first portion connected to the first support member and a second portion connected to the second support member; and

a fifth support member constructed from metal and at least partially disposed within the generally hollow interior portion of the fence panel, the fifth support member interconnecting the first and second support members, the fifth support member including a first portion connected to the first support member and a second portion connected to the second support member.

6. A fence comprising:

a fence panel constructed from blow-molded plastic, the fence panel including a hollow interior portion formed during the blow-molding process; and

a mower strip connected to a lower portion of the fence panel, the mower strip being constructed from plastic, the mower strip sized and configured to obstruct plant growth proximate the lower portion of the fence panel.

7. The fence as in claim 6, wherein the mower strip is constructed from blow-molded plastic.

8. The fence as in claim 6, wherein the mower strip includes a hollow interior portion formed during the molding process.

9. The fence system as in claim 6, wherein the mow striper abuts at least a portion of the fence.

10. The fence system as in claim 6, wherein the mower strip includes a first portion that extends beyond a front portion of the fence panel and the mower strip includes a second portion that extends beyond a rear portion of the fence panel.

11. The fence system as in claim 6, wherein the mower strip includes a first portion that extends at least about three inches beyond a front face of a the fence panel and the mower strip includes a second portion that extends at least about three inches beyond a rear face of the fence panel.

12. The fence system as in claim 6, wherein the mower strip and the fence panel are integrally formed as part of a unitary, one-piece structure.

13. A fence comprising:

a first fence panel constructed from blow-molded plastic, the first fence panel including a hollow interior portion formed during the blow-molding process;

a first connecting portion of the first fence panel;

a second fence panel constructed from blow-molded plastic, the second fence panel including a hollow interior portion formed during the blow-molding process; and

a second connecting portion of the second fence panel, the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion being sized and configured to connect the first fence panel and the second fence panel.

14. The fence as in claim 13, wherein the first connecting portion of the first fence panel includes at least one engaging member and the second connecting portion of the second fence panel includes at least one engaging member, the engaging member of the first connecting portion and the engaging member of the second connecting portion being sized and configured to engage when the first fence panel is connected to the second fence panel.

15. The fence as in claim 14, wherein the engaging member of the first fence panel is sized and configured to engage the engaging member of the second fence panel by a snap, friction or interference fit.

16. The fence as in claim 14, wherein at least one of the engaging members of the first fence panel are sized and configured to slidably engage at least one of the engaging members of the second fence panel.

17. The fence as in claim 14, wherein the second fence panel includes a first portion that is sized and configured to abut at least a portion of the first fence panel and a second portion that is sized and configured to abut at least a portion of a support surface.

18. The fence as in claim 17, wherein the second portion has a sloped configuration.