Fences – Rail – Connection
Reexamination Certificate
1999-09-13
2001-09-04
Browne, Lynne H. (Department: 3629)
Fences
Rail
Connection
C256S059000, C256S019000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06283457
ABSTRACT:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is directed to a knock-down hand rail system. More particularly, the present invention relates to a unique knock-down hand rail system for use both indoors and outdoors.
Background of the Invention
The typical hand rail is formed of metal and susceptible to affects of weather or other environmental conditions causing the rail to rust and deteriorate. A disadvantage of these metal rails is that such rails require regular upkeep such as painting to prevent rust or complete replacement when the metal rusts away.
To overcome this, galvanized steel has been used to avoid rust and hopefully, eliminate regular upkeep. A disadvantage of galvanized steel is that the sheen is too bright and is distracting when used in environments such as auditoriums or stadiums.
A still further disadvantage of both the metal and galvanized steel hand rail systems is that their assembly is of a permanent nature. That is, once the rail structure is assembled, the rail is permanently fixed at that location in that configuration.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides a knock-down hand rail assembly that is formed of both metal and plastic. The hand rail assembly is readily and easily assembled and disassembled. The hand rail is maintenance free and requires no paint or other upkeep.
The assembly of the present invention can be used in many applications both indoor and out. The hand rail assembly can readily be assembled anywhere. The assembly can also readily be disassembled to form a different hand rail structure configuration or to add more rails to the structure. Further, the hand rail can be readily disassembled to change the plastic for the purpose of changing colors of the rail or adding/subtracting signage provided on the structure. This is advantageous when using the invention in an auditorium setting. The ability to color code railings with seating makes it easier on attendees to find their seats during a game or show. The knock down hand rail assembly of the present invention includes at least two spaced apart vertical rails and at least two base supports for supporting the vertical rails in an upright position. Alternatively, the vertical rails may be supported by the ground using standard coring procedures. At least two spaced apart horizontal rails are provided and removably engaged with the vertical rails. These horizontal rails are preferably positioned above the base supports. Each vertical and horizontal rail is surrounded by removable and replaceable polymerized sheathing. The polymerized sheathing has an interior diameter equal to or greater than the outer diameter of each rail. Slip-on structural fittings are provided to removably engage the horizontal rails to the vertical rails.
In other preferred embodiments, a plurality of vertical and horizontal rails surrounded by polymerized sheathing and engaged by slip-on structural fittings can be used. These and other objects, advantages and features of this invention will become apparent upon review of the following specification in conjunction with the drawings.
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patent: 5421666 (1995-06-01), Spears
patent: 5480126 (1996-01-01), Teasdale
patent: 5566927 (1996-10-01), Venegas, Jr.
patent: 6131886 (2000-10-01), Venegas, Jr.
Browne Lynne H.
Cottingham John R.
Gifford Krass Groh Sprinkle Anderson & Citkowski PC
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