GB2624798A

GB2624798A - Fence bracket and fence bracket system

Info

Publication number: GB2624798A
Application number: GB2401832.7A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Hawthornthwaite Steven
Original assignee: Shpb Ltd
Current assignee: Shpb Ltd
Priority date: 2022-02-04
Filing date: 2023-02-06
Publication date: 2024-05-29
Also published as: WO2023148387A1; GB2618696B; GB2618696A; GB202401832D0

Abstract

A fence bracket, a fence bracket system, a kit of parts, a fence assembly and a method of manufacturing a fence bracket are described. The fence bracket is suitable for use with a fence panel. The fence bracket has a body having a base, a front wall, a first side wall and a second side wall; and a support. The support is provided on the front wall. The support is configured to connect to a fence post. The front wall has a region comprising an aperture suitable for receiving an ancillary component. There may be two fence post support, the post support may be pivotable and the fence post supports may be interchangeable.

Description

FENCE BRACKET AND FENCE BRACKET SYSTEM TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a fence bracket. Particularly, but not exclusively, the disclosure relates to fence bracket, a fence bracket system, a kit of parts, a fence assembly and a method of manufacturing a fence bracket.

BACKGROUND

Temporary and semi-permanent fencing may be used in a variety of applications where a barrier is to be erected to cordon off or prevent access to an area. For example, open air music festivals often erect temporary fencing to prevent unauthorised access to the festival site. Other examples of uses of temporary fencing is to restrict access to potentially hazardous areas such as building sites.

An erected temporary fencing system therefore has a "restricted" side (within the fenced off area) and a "public" side (the area outside the fenced area).

One of the most common types of fences used for temporary fencing is the Heras (TM) fence. This type of fencing comprises a wire mesh panel attached to metal tube frame. The metal tube frame has two posts on which the fence panel stands. The fence posts may be retained into rubber or concrete blocks in use. In use a first fence's post is retained in a hole in the block and a post of a second fence is retained in another hole of the block. As a result, a number of fence panels can be joined together to form a long chain of fences by using a number of blocks. The fence post may be a fence panel post or a gate panel post.

Such blocks in use extend either side of a fence. As such they may present a tripping hazard for the public walking past the fence on the "public" side of the fence. High-visibility (hi-vis) block casings are generally employed to aid a person seeing such blocks. However, it may still be difficult to see such blocks at night or where the member of the public suffers from vision impairment.

Similarly, fencing may often be erected on sites which abut pavement, roads or tarmacked areas or other such built upon areas. A building or development site in an inner-city location abutting pavement is an example of such a scenario as there may be an uneven ground surface. As blocks extend either side of a fence the fence assembly must be staggered back from the edge of the full area of the development such that any change in height between the pavement and the internal area of the development site does not negatively effect the fence. If a block is placed across pavement and lower ground of the development site then the fence assembly may be disposed at an angle increasing likelihood of tipping (especially under side loading from wind for example).

Further, such blocks tend to be heavy and bulky as they made from concrete. As regulations tend to limit the maximum weight that a person can lift unaided there is often the need for installation of blocks to be carried out by at least two installers.

Even with such heavy blocks there is the potential for the fence posts to topple over due to wind loading. Whilst the mesh in an individual fence panel has a small surface area, due to the number of panels in a fence system and the metal tubular frame it offers a significant cross-sectional area for wind loading.

Further, it is relatively easy to lift such fence panels out from blocks. It is also relatively easy to push or manoeuvre blocks as they are generally not fixed to the ground.

Moreover, blocks are placed on the ground requiring installers to often bend down to fix the blocks in place. Such bending can place strain on the installer's back potentially causing injury.

Another type of fence is the rigid mesh fence. This type of fencing also comprises a wire mesh panel attached to metal tube frame. This type of fence is installed in a different manner-the posts are secured and the mesh panels are attached via mechanical fasteners. Two mesh panels are attached to each post with one or more fixings. These panels typically have V-shaped beads formed into them running horizontally in use to provide more structural stiffness. This type of fencing tends to be used in a semi-permanent or permanent context.

In known installations, the posts are secured e.g., with concrete. This is problematic as it can increase the costs and timescale of installation, and installing concrete into soft ground can result in some movement, particularly in wet conditions.

The present disclosure aims to improve on the fencing systems known in the art.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Aspects and embodiments of the invention provide a fence bracket, a fence bracket system, a fence assembly, a kit of parts and a method of manufacturing a fence bracket as claimed in the appended claims.

According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a fence bracket. The fence bracket is suitable for use with a fence panel. The fence bracket comprises: a body having a base, a front wall, a first side wall and a second side wall; and a support; wherein the support is provided on the front wall; and the support is configured to connect to a fence post; and wherein the front wall has a region comprising an aperture suitable for receiving an ancillary component.

In a preferred embodiment, there is provided a first support (22) and a second support (24), wherein the base comprises a mating formation (32) for a ground-penetrating member (40). The first support (22) and the second support (24) are configured to connect to a first and second respective fence posts and are provided on the front wall (20). The front wall (20) region comprising an aperture (30) is disposed between the first support (22) and the second support (24).

Preferably the first and second supports are suitable for mating with a fence post in sliding engagement. For example the fence post may slide into the support, or the support may slide into the fence post.

Advantageously the fence bracket comprises at least one sidewall. Preferably the fence bracket comprises two sidewalls. The sidewalls increase the strength of the fence bracket. The fence bracket may thereby withstand greater loads, which may be encountered due to high winds effecting a fence installed using the bracket, and thereby transferred through the bracket and/or other sources of adverse pressure on such a fence.

The slot allows for the connection of an ancillary component to the fence bracket. The ancillary component allows the arm or locking strap to be connected to the fence bracket which enables the fence to be locked together above the bracket. The aperture could also be used to connect a fence panel joining bracket to the fence bracket.

The provision of the support on the front wall of the bracket reduces the footprint of the fence bracket. The support being in front of the front wall (in use) means that the fence bracket does not extend onto the "public" side of the fence. As such the fence bracket presents less of a tripping hazard to the public.

The front wall acts as a barrier preventing someone reaching into the inner parts of the fence bracket located on the "restricted" side of the fence bracket in use.

Preferably the region comprises a tab extending from the front wall. The tab may be used to abut against a fence joining panel bracket between the top of the inline support tubes and the tab. Such an implementation could be used to lock the fence posts to the fence bracket to prevent unauthorised removal.

The tab may comprise a portion to attach an ancillary component.

The tab may extend away from the front wall towards the "public" side or away from the wall towards the "restricted" side or the tab may extend upwards from the front wall.

Preferably a portion of the tab is bent such that the portion extends substantially perpendicularly from the front wall. The tab is bent such that it preferably extends away from the wall approximately or substantially perpendicular.

Preferably the aperture is located on the tab. Locating the aperture on the tab makes it easier to connect ancillary components for an installer.

Preferably the base further comprises a portion suitable for receiving a ground penetrating member for fixing the fence bracket to soft ground. The ground penetrating member may be a ground screw. The ground penetrating member is used to fix the fence bracket to soft ground such as dirt.

Preferably the body further comprises an ancillary support connected to the base and/or front wall; wherein the ancillary support is suitable to receive an ancillary support component. The ancillary support is used to connect further ancillary components to the bracket such as further stabilizers, braces, flag poles, another fence, scaffold poles, or other suitable apparatus. The ancillary support is preferably welded to the base and front plate.

Preferably the ancillary support is welded just below tab. Preferably the weld is two points on either side of the ancillary support. Preferably the weld is 25 mm on both sides of the tab.

Preferably the fence bracket further comprises at least one hole suitable for receiving an anchor bolt for fixing the fence bracket to hardstanding or hard ground. The fence bracket may be used on hard ground to fix a fence where a ground screw or ground penetrating 5 member cannot be employed.

Preferably the base does not extend past: the front wall or the support.

Advantageously, as the base doesn't extend into the "public" side of the fence. This reduces the likelihood of the public tripping up over the base plate when the bracket is in use. Optionally where a second support is used the base may not extend past the second support.

Preferably the fence bracket further comprises a second support provided on the front wall and wherein the second support is configured to connect to a fence post.

Preferably, the aperture has an axis (Al) that is parallel with an axis (A2) of the first fence support and parallel with an axis (A3) of the second fence support. Preferably, the aperture has an axis (Al) that is coplanar with an axis (A2) of the first fence support and coplanar with an axis (A3) of the second fence support. The aperture being on the same plane of the axis of the support posts means that the arm or locking strap in use is almost vertical and flush with the fence panel siding. Having the arm vertical and flush makes it harder to get through a fence assembly in use as there is littler area to axis through the arm. Further it makes the fence panel joining bracket to fix to fence supports as the aperture will be in-line with the fence tubes.

The first and second supports are tubes suitable for receiving a fence post. The tubes surround and support a fence panel post. The posts are often the weakest portion of the fence panel and may be liable to damage due to loading on the fence. Receiving the fence posts in tubular supports reduces the likelihood of damage to fence posts.

Preferably the first and second supports are configured such that in use the fence posts are uncovered over a distance between the bottom of the first and second supports and the ground to enable said fence posts to be fastened together with a fastener. In use lifting the fence posts causes the fence panel joining bracket or fastener to abut the bottom of the supports preventing them from being lifted out of the fence bracket.

Preferably the top surface of the first and second fence post supports is below the tab such that in use the fence posts received by the first and second supports are uncovered enabling said fence posts to be fastened together with a fastener such that pulling upward engages the fastener with the tab preventing fence post removal. In use lifting the fence posts causes the fence panel joining bracket or fastener to abut the tab preventing them from being lifted out of the fence bracket.

According to another aspect a fence bracket system is provided. The fence bracket system comprising: a fence bracket as described previously; and further comprising at least one an ancillary component.

Preferably the at least one ancillary component is at least one: an arm; and/or a fastener and/or a levelling device.

The arm is preferably a locking strap.

Preferably, the fence bracket system further comprises an ancillary support component; wherein the component is one of: a stabilizer; or a brace; or a camera pole; or a solar light; or a flag pole; or a fixtures.

Preferably the at least one ancillary component is an arm and wherein the arm comprises an aperture engaging portion disposed at one end of said arm configured to removably engage aperture of the bracket.

The arm in use can act as a further physical barrier between the "public" and "secure" sides of the fenced off area. The arm fits into the gap between the first and second fence panel preventing access by someone trying to fit their hand through. The arm is removably engageable with the fence bracket.

Preferably the arm further comprises an arm aperture disposed at a second end of said arm suitable for receiving a fastener. The fastener may be used to connect the arm to a fence panel and thus the fence panel to the bracket.

Preferably the at least one ancillary component further comprises a fastener.

According to an aspect of the invention there is provided a fence bracket suitable for use with a fence post comprising: a body comprising a portion suitable for receiving a ground penetrating member; and, a support configured to connect to a fence post, the support provided on the body such that the support is pivotable about at least one axis relative to the body.

Preferably the support is pivotable about at least two axes relative to the body. Preferably the two axes are normal to each other, and to a main axis of the support.

Preferably the body has a base, a front wall, a first side wall and a second side wall, and wherein the support is mounted to the front wall.

The invention also provides a fence bracket system comprising: a base subassembly configured to support the base of a fence post, the base subassembly comprising a fence bracket; and, a brace subassembly, the base subassembly comprising: an elongate brace member; a body at a first end of the elongate brace member, the body comprising a portion suitable for receiving a ground penetrating member; a post bracket at a second end of the elongate brace member, the post bracket configured to engage with a fence post at a position spaced-apart from the ground.

Preferably the post bracket is a post clamp configured to clamp a fence post in use.

According to a further aspect a kit of parts comprising the components of the fence bracket system of a previous aspect.

Preferably the kit of parts of claim further comprises at least one fence panel.

According to another aspect a fence assembly is provided. The fence assembly comprising: a fence bracket system of a previous aspect; at least one fence panel.

Alternatively, the fence assembly comprises: a fence bracket system of a previous aspect; at least one fence post.

According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a modular fence bracket kit, the kit comprising: a body having a base, a front wall, a first side wall and a second side wall, wherein the base comprises a mating formation (32) for a ground-penetrating member; and, a plurality of different fence-post supporting modules, the modules being interchangeably attachable to the body to form a fence post support.

A first module of the plurality of modules may comprise: a first support and a second support configured to connect to a first and second respective fence posts; and, a region comprising an aperture suitable for receiving an ancillary component, the region comprising the aperture being disposed between the first support and the second support.

Another module of the plurality of modules may comprise: a support configured to connect to a fence post, the support provided such that the support is pivotable about at least one axis relative to the body in use.

According to another aspect a method of manufacturing a fence bracket is disclosed The fence bracket comprising: cutting a shape from a material sheet; cutting an aperture into the material sheet; connecting the front wall to the first and second side walls; and connecting a support to the body.

Preferably the method of manufacturing a fence bracket further comprises: folding the shape to form a body comprising a base, a front wall a first side wall and a second side wall.

Preferably the cutting is made by laser cutting.

Preferably the method of manufacturing a fence bracket further comprises: welding the support to the body.

Preferably the method of manufacturing a fence bracket further comprises: forming a tab with the aperture disposed thereon.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

One or more embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a perspective view of a fence bracket; Figure 2 is a second perspective view of the fence bracket of Figure 1; Figure 3 is a side on view of the fence bracket of Figure 1; Figure 4 is a plan view of the fence bracket of Figure 1; Figure 5 is a perspective view from a "restricted" side of a fence bracket assembly incorporating a fence bracket system including the fence bracket of Figure 1; Figure 6 is a perspective view from a "public" side of the fence assembly of Figure 5; Figure 7 shows a perspective view of an alternative fence assembly from the "restricted" side; Figure 8 shows a perspective view of a further fence bracket; Figure 9 shows a perspective view of a further fence bracket; Figure 10 shows a perspective view of an alternative fence assembly from the "restricted" side; Figure 11 shows a component of the fence bracket system of Figure 5 Figure 12 shows a perspective view of an intermediate stage of manufacture of the fence bracket of Figure 1; Figure 13 shows a perspective view of a further fence bracket; Figure 14 shows a side view of the fence bracket of Figure 12; Figure 15 shows a rear view of the fence bracket of Figure 12; Figure 16 shows a perspective view of an intermediate stage of manufacture of the fence bracket of Figure 1; Figure 17 shows a perspective view of a still further fence bracket; Figures 18 and 19 show stages in the assembly of the fence bracket of Figure 16; Figure 20 shows a perspective view of a fence bracket assembly and a fence supported therewith; Figure 21 shows a first perspective view of a fence bracket of the assembly of Figure 17; Figure 22 shows a second perspective view of a fence bracket of the assembly of Figure 17; Figure 23 shows a support assembly of the fence bracket of the assembly of Figure 17; Figure 24 shows a perspective view of a fence post clamp; Figure 25 shows a perspective view of the fence post clamp of Figure 21 in situ; Figures 26a to 28c show various views of a modular fence post kit! system; Figures 29a to 29c show views of a further fence bracket; Figures 30a to 30c show views of a still further fence bracket.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

First embodiment With reference to Figures 1 to 7, a fence bracket 10 is disclosed for use as part of a fence assembly 1000. The fence bracket 10 is suitable for use with temporary fence panels 60A, 60B such as the fence panel produced by Heras TM. However, the present fence bracket 10 may be employed with any suitable temporary or permanent fencing as required by the installer or their present need.

The fence bracket 10 in use as part of a fence assembly 1000 defines a "public" side which is not fenced off or restricted and a "restricted" side in which the fencing assembly 1000 restricts public access to an area. The "public" side is denoted by the letter P and the "restricted" side is denoted by the letter R. These areas are shown in Figure 6.

The fence bracket 10 is shown in Figure 1. The fence bracket 10 comprises a body 12. The body 12 is made up of a base 14 and a front wall 20. The front wall 20 may be a substantially vertical region 20. The body 12 shown in Figure 1 further has sidewalls 16 and 18. The sidewalls 16, 18 connect to the front wall 20 and provide structural reinforcement to the front wall 20. The sidewalls may taper towards the base 14 from a maximum height at or adjacent to the front wall 20 as shown in Figures 1-3. The fence bracket 10 is therefore arranged as a box section.

Vertical may be taken to mean "substantially vertical" or "approximately vertical" throughout. Similarly, perpendicular may be taken to mean "substantially perpendicular' or "approximately perpendicular" throughout. Similarly, co-planer may be taken to mean "substantially co-planer" or "approximately co-planer".

The front wall 20 is preferably a wall as shown in Figure 1. The front wall 20 connects to the base 14 at the bottom of the front wall 20.

The body 12 may have a drainage hole 21 located at the intersection of the base 14, first side wall 16 and the front wall 20 as shown in Figure 1 and 2. The drainage hole permits rainwater or other fluid to drain out of the fence bracket 10 and not sit in the internal cavity of the body 12.

The body 12 may have a drainage hole 21 located at the intersection of the base 14, second side wall 18 and the front wall 20 as shown in Figure 2. The drainage hole permits rainwater or other fluid to drain out of the fence bracket 10 and not sit in the internal cavity of the body 12.

Alternatively, the front wall 20 may be a strip or tab extending from the base. In such embodiments the body 12 may or may not comprise sidewalls 16, 18.

The front wall 20 has connected to it a first support 22 and optionally a second support 24. The embodiment shown in Figure 1 has both a first and second support 22, 24. The first support 22 defines an axis A2. The second support defines an axis A3. The first and second supports 22, 24 are preferably tubes as shown in Figure 1 and 2. The tubes are sized to receive fence posts 62A, 62B of a temporary fence panels 60A, 60B (or gate panel post of a gate panel) within the inner diameter of the tube. The first and second supports 22, 24 are connected to the body 12 at the front wall 20, preferably such that they cannot be removed. In alternative embodiments, the first and second supports 22, 24 may be detached from the front wall 20 and body 12.

The first and second supports 22, 24 preferably extend such that the bottom of the first and second supports 22, 24 touch the ground in use.

Alternatively, the first and second supports 22, 24 may not extend such that the bottom of the first and second supports 22, 24 touch the ground in use. In such an embodiment there is a distance D3 between the bottom of the first and second supports 22, 24 and the ground to enable the fastening of two fence posts together with a fastener 50 in use. The distance D3 may be the height of a fence panel joining bracket 50, an example of such a bracket 50 is shown in Figure 5. The ability to lock the fence posts 62A, 628 adds additional security as the fence posts 62A, 62B are locked together using a fastener 50 which cannot be pulled out of the fence bracket 10. If someone were to try and pull the fastened fence posts 62A, 62B out of the fence bracket 10 the fastener 50 would abut the bottom of the first and second supports 22, 24 preventing the fence panels 60A, 60B from being lifted further.

Alternatively, the first and second supports 22, 24 may not be tubes but may be posts that a fence post 62A, 62B is placed upon.

As shown in Figure 1 and 2 the front wall 20 comprises an aperture 30. The aperture defines an axis Al. The aperture 30 is suitable for receiving an ancillary component 70 such as arm 70 shown in Figures 5-7. The arm may also be referred to as a locking strap 70. The aperture 30 is preferably configured to retain an aperture engaging portion 72 of the arm 70.

The aperture 30 is therefore complementary to the aperture engaging portion 72.

The aperture 30 may be disposed on tab 28 as shown in Figures 1 and 2. Such a tab extends from the front wall 20. The tab 28 may extend vertically from the front wall 20.

Alternatively, the tab 28 may extend perpendicularly from the front wall 20 into the "public" side of the fence bracket 10 (the side with the first and second fence post supports 22, 24) or conversely the tab 28 may extend perpendicularly from the vertical wall 20 into the "restricted" side of the fence bracket 10. Alternatively, multiple tabs 28 may be provided in two or more of the locations described to permit greater variability of use by the installer.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the tab 28 extends vertically from the front wall 20 and the tab further comprises a bent portion 29. The bent portion 29, as shown in Figure 1 and 2, is a region of the tab 28 that is substantially perpendicular from the front wall 20 and causes the aperture 30 to extend into the "public" side of the fence bracket 10. Alternatively, the bent portion 29 of tab 28 may extend into the "restricted" side of the fence bracket.

The tab 28 is preferably disposed, at a distance D1 from the ground, above the top surface of the first and second fence post supports 22, 24 as shown in Figure 3. The top of the first and second fence post supports 22, 24 is at a distance of D2 from the ground as shown in Figure 3. At the same time the tab 28 is located between the first and second supports 22, 24 when viewed from above as in Figure 4 to permit fence posts 62A, 62B to enter the fence post supports 22, 24. A fence post 62A, 628 may be a fence panel post or a gate panel post.

Optionally the distance D1 may be greater still to permit the placing of a fastener 50 between the top of the first and second fence post supports 22, 24 and the bottom of the tab 28. In such a scenario the fence posts 62A, 62B received in the supports 22, 24 can be fastened together (using a fence panel joining bracket 50 or other fastener 50) below the tab 28.

Fastening in this manner prevents the fence posts 62A, 62B being removed from the fence bracket 10 as lifting fence panel 60A, 60B causes the fastener 50 to abut the tab 28 preventing the fence panel 60A, 60B being lifted any further.

Preferably the axis Al of the aperture 30 is coplanar with the axis A2 of the first fence post support 22 and coplanar with an axis A3 of the second fence post support 24. The three axis Al, A2, A3 thus sit substantially upon plane B as shown in Figure 4.

The base 14 of the fence bracket 10 has a portion 32 for receiving a ground penetrating member 40. The portion 32 is preferably a hole or aperture 30 which is complementary to a ground penetrating member 40 as shown in Figures 5-7. The aperture 30 is located on the "restricted" side of the fence bracket 10 such that it cannot be accessed from the "public" side when part of a fence assembly 1000 as shown in Figure 6.

In one embodiment the ground penetrating member 40 in Figure 5 is a ground screw 40 also known as a ground penetrating screw. Ground screws 40 are provided with a thread that can be driven into soft ground, such as earth. Ground screws 40 are made of steel and preferably a galvanised steel. Ground screws 40 may include a fixture to aid driving the ground screw 40 into the ground. An example fixture is a hexagonal drive nut as shown in Figure. Ground screws 40 are typically driven into soft ground. For example, using a petrol driven nut wrench in combination with the hexagonal drive nut. Ground screws 40 provide a more secure hold than tent pegs or ground stakes for example.

The ground screw 40 is received in the hole 32 in use. The ground screw 40 has a flanged region or flange 42. The flange 42 in use aids in spreading the pressure built up by screwing in the ground screw 40 into the ground across the base 14 of fence bracket 10. The spreading of the pressure across the area of the base 14 adjacent the hole 32 and covered by the flange 42 helps to ensure a more stable bracket 10 when used in a fence assembly 1000.

The body 12 may further comprise an ancillary support 26 connected to the base 14 and or front wall 20 as shown in Figure 1. The ancillary support 26 shown in Figure 1 is a length of tubing. The ancillary support 26 may be used to connect ancillary support components 120 to the fence bracket 10. An example ancillary support component 120 is the post 80 shown in Figure 7. The ancillary support 26 is complementary to the ancillary support component 120. The ancillary support 26 may comprise means suitable for fixing the ancillary support component 120 into the ancillary support 26. For example, the means may be a bolt, screw, clamp or other similar fastening means to fix the ancillary support component 120 into the ancillary support 26.

The base 14 has a hole 27 which is a drainage hole. 27. The hole 27 is located within the ancillary support 26 as shown in Figure 4. The hole 27 permits fluid such as water or rainfall to drain out of the ancillary support 26.

Preferably the base 14 does not extend past the "front" of the front wall 20 (the side facing the "public" side) and/or the first support 22 and/or the second support 24. The base 14 not extending past one or more of these components means that in use the base 14 does not extend onto the "public" side of the fence assembly 1000. Advantageously this means it is less easy to lever up the fence bracket 10 and thus fence assembly 1000 using a lever, crowbar of the like. A further advantage is that the resulting fence assembly 1000 can be closer to the true extent of the development area rather than being staggered back as with prior art systems. Further, the fence bracket 10 is less likely to be a tripping hazard in such a scenario.

The base 14 may further comprise a hole 34. The hole 34 is suitable for receiving an anchor bolt (also known as an expansion bolt). An anchor bolt may be inserted through hole 34 for securing the fence bracket 10 on hardstanding such as concrete or tarmacked surface. The hole 34 aligns with a hole in the hardstanding surface. The aligned holes then receive the anchor bolt. The anchor bolt is then actuated expanding into the hardstanding hole pulling the fence bracket 10 into closer contact with the hardstanding surface.

A number of holes 34 may be provided in the base. The number of holes 34 may be two or three or four or five or six or seven or eight or nine or ten. The number of holes 34 may be any number in the range two to ten or two to five. Preferably the number of holes 34 is three.

Where multiple holes 34 are provided on the base, they may be provided in a line as shown in Figure 4. Alternatively, the holes 34 may be provided in any such suitable configuration, for example: where n holes 34 are present (where "n" is the number of holes 34) the holes 34 may be arranged as the corners of an n-sided shape (regular or irregular) on the base 14.

For example, where three holes 34 are present the holes 34 could be provided in a triangular arrangement or a linear arrangement; where four holes 34 are present the holes could be provided in a rectangular or square arrangement, etc...

The hole(s) 34 may alternatively be used to receive a tent pole or stake. The tent pole or stake may be used in combination with a ground penetrating member 40 to fix the fence bracket in place on soft ground.

The hole 32 adapted to receive the ground penetrating member is larger in diameter that the hole(s) 34 adapted to receive the anchor bolts.

The fence bracket system 100 will now be described in more detail with reference to Figures 1 to 7. The fence bracket system 100 incorporates the fence bracket 10 as described above as well as one or more ancillary components 110 and/or one or more ancillary support components 120.

The ancillary component 110 may be one or more of an arm 70; or a fastener 50; or a levelling device. The ancillary support component 120 may be one or more of: a stabilizer; or an brace; or an access door; or a camera pole; or a solar light; or a flag pole; or any other

suitable fixtures.

The arm 70 (also known as a locking strap 70) is shown in Figure 5 and Figure 11 in a closer view. The arm 70 has an elongated body as shown in Figure 5. The arm 70 comprises an aperture engaging portion 72 disposed at one end of the arm 70 configured to engage aperture 30 of the bracket 10. The arm engaging portion 72 is complementary to the aperture 30 of the region of front wall 20. As shown in Figure 11 the arm engaging portion 72 is preferably a tab 72.

The arm has an arm aperture 74 disposed at a second end of the arm 70 as shown in Figure 11. The arm aperture 74 is configured to receive a fastener 50 as shown in Figures 5 and 6. As shown in Figure 5 the fastener 50 enables the fence panels 60A, 60B to be fastened together above the fence bracket 10. Raising the location of the fastener 50 from near the ground adjacent the fence bracket 10 reduces the need for an installer to bend down to fix the fence panel joining bracket 50 to the assembly 1000.

The fastener 50 is a fastening arrangement and preferably is a fence panel joining bracket 50. The fence panel joining bracket comprises a first bracket, a second bracket a bolt and a nut. The first and second brackets act together to clamp two fence panel post 62A, 62B between them as shown in Figure 5.

The fence panel joining bracket 50 may be comprise an anti-tamper device to prevent unauthorised removal of the fence panel joining bracket 50. The anti-tamper device may be an anti-tamper screw or bolt for example.

The arm 70 may be installed into the fence bracket 10 from either the front or rear of the fence bracket 10.

The arm 70 may extend further than the example shown in Figure 5. The arm 70 may extend to the top of the fence panel 60A such that the gap between fence panels 60A and 60B is completely covered by the arm 70. In such an embodiment the arm 70 may have multiple arm apertures 74 to engage multiple fasteners 50 to fasten fence panels 60A, 60B together with the fence bracket 10. An advantage of this longer arm 70 is that it reduces ease of access into the "restricted" area further. It also reduces the ability for tools to be slipped between the fence panel tubes which could be used to force the panels 60A, 608 apart.

Further, connections or apertures for fixing ancillary components may be provided on an arm 70. The arm 70 may provide connections for bracings, fixtures, stabilisers or other such fixtures.

The stabilizer may be an apparatus which provides stability to the fence bracket system 100 and as such reduces the effect of sideloading or wind on the fence bracket system 100.

The brace 130 may be an apparatus which provides stability to the fence bracket system 100 and as such reduces the effect of sideloading or wind on the fence bracket system 100. The brace 130 is shown in Figure 10. The brace 130 comprises a brace plate 132 and a brace pole 134. The brace plate 132 has a brace pole support 136. The brace pole support 134 may be an angled piece of tubing as shown in Figure 10 that the brace pole 134 is received within. The end of the brace pole 136 not connected to the support has a fixture 138 for fixing the brace poll 134 to the fence panel joining bracket 50. The fixture 138 may be a tab or aperture or flattened portion of the brace pole 134 with an aperture to be received in a fence panel joining bracket 50.

According to a further aspect a kit of parts is provided. The kit of parts comprises the fence bracket system 100 described above. Optionally the kit of parts may comprise at least one fence panel 60A or at least two fence panels 60A, 60B, optionally the kit of parts may comprise a gate.

According to a further aspect a fence assembly 1000 is described. The fence assembly 1000 comprises the fence bracket system 100 described above and at least one fence panel 60A, 60B. Optionally the fence assembly 1000 may comprise at least two fence panels 60A, 603, optionally the assembly 1000 may comprise a gate.

Optionally one of the fence panels 60A, 60B may be exchanged for a gate with a gate panel post. The gate may be retained in the first or second support 22, 24 and may be made to pivot in the respective support.

According to another aspect a method of manufacturing a fence bracket 10 is described.

The method of manufacturing a fence bracket 10 comprises cutting a shape from a material sheet. The cut shape 400 is shown in Figure 12. Preferably the material is a metal. Preferably the shape is cut from a flat metal sheet. The cutting may be achieved by means of laser cutting. Alternatively, the cutting may be done via other methods such as using a cutting torch or water jet cutting. The aperture 30 and holes 27, 32, 34 are also cut into the material sheet. The cut shape is then folded to form the body 12. Folds are made at folding regions 402 indicated in Figure 12. The body is made up of a base 14, a font wall 20 and a first side wall 16 and second side wall 18. The front wall 20 is connected to the first and second side walls 16, 18; and a first support 22 is connected to the body 12. Optionally where a second support 24 is required a second support may be also connected to the body 12.

The front wall 20 is connected by a weld to the first and second side walls 16, 18. A portion of the wall is left unwelded towards the base 14 to form a hole 21 suitable for drainage. A notch or scallop 404 may optionally be provided. The notch 404 forms at least a portion of the hole 21 when the front wall 20 and one of the side walls 16 or 18 are folded together. The notch 404 provides a greater area hole 21.

The first and second supports 22, 24 are welded to the body 12.

The sidewalls 16, 18 are welded to the front wall 20. The weld is made along the length of the front wall except at the point where the sidewalls meet both the base 14 and the front wall 20. At such a point no weld is made and a hole 21 is left to allow drainage out from the body 12.

The method further comprises forming the tab 28 with the aperture 30 disposed thereon.

The fence bracket 10 is manufactured from metal. The metal may be steel. The steel may be a mild steel.

The fence bracket 10 may be surface finished. For example, the fence bracket 10 may have a powder coating applied. The powder coating assists in reducing risk of corrosion and at the same time can be in a bright colour to indicate to the public that a hazard may be present.

Second embodiment According to an alternative embodiment of the bracket, an alternative fence bracket 210 is described. The fence bracket 210 is shown in Figure 8. The fence bracket 210 is similar to the fence bracket 10 described above and therefore features in common are indicated with the same reference numbers. Alternative features are designated numbers in the two-hundreds. The fence bracket 210 may be used as part of any of the previous aspects.

The fence bracket 210 has a support 222 extending from the front wall 20 of the body 12. The support 222 is a fence post support. The support 222 is shaped as shown in Figure 8, that is a box with a substantially square-pyramidal top. The shape is complementary to a square (or rectangular) fence post. In use a square fence post sits onto of the support 222.

An example of such a fencing system is the Fencesafe Temporary & Dulok fencing system using rigid mesh panels which this fence bracket 210 may be used with.

The fence bracket 210 has an aperture 230 disposed in the front wall 20 of the body 12. The aperture 230 is disposed above the fence post support 222. The aperture 230 is suitable to receive an ancillary component 110. The ancillary component 110 may be one of those described above. Preferably the ancillary component 110 is an adjustable levelling bracket to aid the installation of the fence assembly. For example, the levelling bracket may be a Fencesafe levelling tool. The levelling tool may receive the fence post such that fence post is held at two points on the fence bracket 210 (the support 222 and levelling tool).

The fence bracket 210 may have other features in common with the fence bracket 10 described above. The fence bracket 210 for example may have least one hole 34 suitable for receiving an anchor bolt for fixing the fence bracket 10 to hardstanding or hard ground. The fence bracket 210 may also have for example a portion 32 in the base 14 suitable for receiving a ground penetrating member 40 for fixing the fence bracket 10 to soft ground.

Third embodiment According to another embodiment of the fence bracket, an alternative fence bracket 310 is described. The fence bracket 310 is shown in Figure 9. The fence bracket 310 is similar to the fence bracket 210 described above except that an alternative support 322 is provided on the front face 20. The fence bracket 310 may be used as part of any of the previous aspects.

The support 322 has a hole 324. The support 322 and hole 324 are used to connect the fence bracket 310 to a fence post. The support 322 and hole 324 may connect to a further bracket which holds the post.

Fourth embodiment With reference to Figures 13 to 16, a fence bracket 510 is disclosed for use as part of a fence assembly 1500. The fence bracket 510 is suitable for use with temporary fence panels 60A, 60B such as the fence panel produced by Heras TM. However, the present fence bracket 510 may be employed with any suitable temporary or permanent fencing as required by the installer or their present need.

The fence bracket 510 in use as part of a fence assembly 1500 defines a "public" side which is not fenced off or restricted and a "restricted" side in which the fencing assembly 1500 restricts public access to an area. The "public" side is denoted by the letter P and the "restricted" side is denoted by the letter R. These areas are shown in Figure 13.

The fence bracket 510 is shown in Figure 13. The fence bracket 510 comprises a body 512.

The body 512 is made up of a base 514 and a front wall 520. The front wall 520 may be a substantially vertical region 520. The body 512 shown in Figure 13 further has sidewalls 516 and 518. The sidewalls 516, 518 connect to the front wall 520 and provide structural reinforcement to the front wall 520. The sidewalls may taper towards the base 514 from a maximum height at or adjacent to the front wall 20 as shown in Figure 13. The fence bracket 510 is therefore arranged as a box section.

The front wall 520 is preferably a wall as shown in Figure 1. The front wall 520 connects to the base 514 at the bottom of the front wall 520.

The body 512 may have a drainage hole 21 located at the intersection of the base 14, first side wall 16 and the front wall 20 as shown in Figure 1 and 2. The drainage hole permits rainwater or other fluid to drain out of the fence bracket 10 and not sit in the internal cavity of the body 12.

The body 12 may have a drainage hole 521 located at the intersection of the base 514, second side wall 518 and the front wall 520 as shown in Figure 13.

Alternatively, the front wall 520 may be a strip or tab extending from the base. In such embodiments the body 512 may or may not comprise sidewalls 516, 518.

The front wall 520 has connected to it a first support 522 and optionally a second support 524. The embodiment shown in Figure 13 has both a first and second support 522, 524. The first support 522 defines an axis A2. The second support 524 defines an axis A3. The first and second supports 522, 524 are tubes. The tubes are sized to receive fence posts 62A, 62B of a temporary fence panels 60A, BOB (or gate panel post of a gate panel) within the inner diameter of the tube. The first and second supports 522, 524 are connected to the body 512 at the front wall 520, preferably such that they cannot be removed. In alternative embodiments, the first and second supports 522, 524 may be detached from the front wall 520 and body 512 The first and second supports 522, 524 preferably extend such that the bottom of the first and second supports 522, 524 touch the ground in use.

Alternatively, the first and second supports 522, 524 may not extend such that the bottom of the first and second supports 522, 524 touch the ground in use. In such an embodiment there is a distance between the bottom of the first and second supports 522, 524 and the ground to enable the fastening of two fence posts together with a fastener in use. The distance may be the height of a fence panel joining bracket 50, an example of such a bracket 50 is shown in Figure 5.

Alternatively, the first and second supports 522, 524 may not be tubes but may be posts that a fence post 62A, 62B is placed upon.

As shown in Figure 13 the front wall 520 comprises an aperture 530. The aperture defines an axis Al. The aperture 530 is suitable for receiving an ancillary component 70 such as arm 70 shown in Figure 11. The arm may also be referred to as a locking strap 70. The aperture 530 is preferably configured to retain an aperture engaging portion 72 of the arm 70. The aperture 530 is therefore complementary to the aperture engaging portion 72.

The aperture 530 may be disposed on tab 528 as shown in Figure 13. Such a tab extends from the front wall 520. The tab 528 may extend vertically from the front wall 520. Alternatively, the tab 528 may extend perpendicularly from the front wall 520 into the "public" side of the fence bracket 510 (the side with the first and second fence post supports 522, 524) or conversely the tab 528 may extend perpendicularly from the vertical wall 520 into the "restricted" side of the fence bracket 510. Alternatively, multiple tabs 528 may be provided in two or more of the locations described to permit greater variability of use by the installer.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 13, the tab 528 extends vertically from the front wall 520 and the tab further comprises a bent portion 529. The bent portion 529 is a region of the tab 528 that is substantially perpendicular to the front wall 520 and causes the aperture 530 to extend into the "public" side of the fence bracket 510. Alternatively, the bent portion 529 of tab 528 may extend into the "restricted" side of the fence bracket.

The tab 528 is preferably disposed, at a distance D1 from the ground, above the top surface of the first and second fence post supports 522, 524 as shown in Figure 14. The top of the first and second fence post supports 522, 524 is at a distance of D2 from the ground as shown in Figure 14. At the same time the tab 528 is located between the first and second supports 522, 524 as in Figure 15 to permit fence posts 62A, 62B to enter the fence post supports 522, 524. A fence post 62A, 62B may be a fence panel post or a gate panel post.

Optionally the distance D1 may be greater still to permit the placing of a fastener 50 between the top of the first and second fence post supports 522, 524 and the bottom of the tab 528.

In such a scenario the fence posts 62A, 62B received in the supports 22, 24 can be fastened together (using a fence panel joining bracket 50 or other fastener 50) below the tab 28.

Preferably the axis Al of the aperture 530 is coplanar with the axis A2 of the first fence post support 522 and coplanar with an axis A3 of the second fence post support 524. The three axis Al, A2, A3 thus sit substantially upon plane B as shown in Figure 14.

The base 514 of the fence bracket 10 has a portion 532 for receiving a ground penetrating member. The portion 352 is preferably a hole or aperture 532 which is complementary to a ground penetrating member. The aperture 530 is located on the "restricted" side of the fence bracket 510 such that it cannot be accessed from the "public" side when part of a fence assembly 1000.

The ground penetrating member may be a ground screw.

The ground screw is received in the hole 532 in use as with the first embodiment above.

The body 512 does not have an ancillary support 26 as with the first embodiment. Instead, the base 514 is entirely flat and planar between the various walls, aside from the aperture 530 and two further holes 534 either side thereof Preferably the base 514 does not extend past the "front" of the front wall 520 (the side facing the "public" side) and/or the first support 522 and/or the second support 524. The base 514 not extending past one or more of these components means that in use the base 514 does not extend onto the "public" side of the fence assembly 1500. Advantageously this means it is less easy to lever up the fence bracket 510 and thus fence assembly 1500 using a lever, crowbar of the like. A further advantage is that the resulting fence assembly 1500 can be closer to the true extent of the development area rather than being staggered back as with prior art systems. Further, the fence bracket 510 is less likely to be a tripping hazard in such a scenario.

The base 514 may further comprise one or more holes 534. The hole 534 is suitable for receiving an anchor bolt (also known as an expansion bolt). An anchor bolt may be inserted through hole 534 for securing the fence bracket 510 on hardstanding such as concrete or tarmacked surface. The hole 534 aligns with a hole in the hardstanding surface. The aligned holes then receive the anchor bolt. The anchor bolt is then actuated expanding into the hardstanding hole pulling the fence bracket 510 into closer contact with the hardstanding surface.

A number of holes 534 may be provided in the base. The number of holes 534 may be two or three or four or five or six or seven or eight or nine or ten. The number of holes 534 may be any number in the range two to ten or two to five. Preferably the number of holes 34 is three.

Where multiple holes 534 are provided on the base, they may be provided in a line as shown in Figure 13.

The hole(s) 534 may alternatively be used to receive a tent pole or stake. The tent pole or stake may be used in combination with a ground penetrating member 40 to fix the fence bracket in place on soft ground.

The hole 532 adapted to receive the ground penetrating member is larger in diameter that the hole(s) 534 adapted to receive the anchor bolts.

The fence bracket system 600 will now be described in more detail. The fence bracket system 500 incorporates the fence bracket 510 as described above as well as one or more ancillary components and/or one or more ancillary support components as with the first embodiment above.

The ancillary component 110 may be one or more of an arm 70; or a fastener 50; or a levelling device. The ancillary support component may be one or more of: a stabilizer; or an brace; or an access door; or a camera pole; or a solar light or a flag pole; or any other suitable fixtures.

A brace may be fitted as per the first embodiment.

According to a further aspect a kit of parts is provided. The kit of parts comprises the fence bracket system 600 described above. Optionally the kit of parts may comprise at least one fence panel 60A or at least two fence panels 60A, 60B, optionally the kit of parts may comprise a gate.

According to a further aspect a fence assembly 1500 is described. The fence assembly 1500 comprises the fence bracket system 600 described above and at least one fence panel 60A, 60B. Optionally the fence assembly 1500 may comprise at least two fence panels 60A, 60B, optionally the assembly 1500 may comprise a gate.

Optionally one of the fence panels 60A, 60B may be exchanged for a gate with a gate panel post. The gate may be retained in the first or second support 522, 524 and may be made to pivot in the respective support.

According to another aspect a method of manufacturing a fence bracket 510 is described. The method of manufacturing a fence bracket 10 comprises cutting a shape from a material sheet. The cut shape 700 is shown in Figure 16. Preferably the material is a metal. Preferably the shape is cut from a flat metal sheet. The cutting may be achieved by means of laser cutting. Alternatively, the cutting may be done via other methods such as using a cutting torch or water jet cutting. The aperture 53 and holes 534 are also cut into the material sheet. The cut shape is then folded to form the body 512. Folds are made at folding regions 702 indicated in Figure 16.

The front wall 520 is connected by a weld to the first and second side walls 516, 518. A portion of the wall is left unwelded towards the base 514 to form the hole 521 suitable for drainage. A notch or scallop 704 may optionally be provided. The notch 704 forms at least a portion of the hole 521 when the front wall 520 and one of the side walls 516 or 518 are folded together. The notch 704 provides a greater area hole 521.

The first and second supports 522, 524 are welded to the body 512.

The sidewalls 516, 518 are welded to the front wall 520. The weld is made along the length of the front wall except at the point where the sidewalls meet both the base 514 and the front wall 520. At such a point no weld is made and a hole 521 is left to allow drainage out from the body 512.

The method further comprises forming the tab 528 with the aperture 530 disposed thereon.

The fence bracket 150 is manufactured from metal. The metal may be steel. The steel may be a mild steel.

The fence bracket 510 may be surface finished. For example, the fence bracket 510 may have a powder coating applied. The powder coating assists in reducing risk of corrosion and at the same time can be in a bright colour to indicate to the public that a hazard may be present.

Fifth embodiment With reference to Figures 17 to 19, a fence bracket 610 is disclosed for use as part of a fence assembly. The fence bracket 610 is suitable for use with temporary fence panels such as the fence panel produced by Heras TM. However, the present fence bracket 610 may be employed with any suitable temporary or permanent fencing as required by the installer or their present need.

The fence bracket 610 in use as part of a fence assembly defines a "public" side which is not fenced off or restricted and a "restricted" side in which the fencing assembly restricts public access to an area. The "public" side is denoted by the letter P and the "restricted" side is denoted by the letter R. These areas are shown in Figure 17.

The fence bracket 610 is identical to the bracket 510, and like reference numerals are numbered 100 greater. The only exception is that two vertically spaced and aligned openings 644, 646 are provided in the front wall 620 directly below and aligned with the tab 628.

Referring to Figure 18, a key clamp bracket 800 is shown as a separate component. Such brackets 800 are available to provide further functionality and to attach.

The bracket 800 comprises a hollow tube section 802 and a mounting flange 804 attached to the section 802 via two mounting arms 806, 808. The mounting flange 804 has two openings therethrough to enable it to be attached to the front wall 620 via the openings 644, 646 using appropriate mechanical fasteners. Once in position (Figure 19), the aperture through the tube section 802 is clear of the tab 628, and the tube section 802 is generally parallel to the sections 622, 624.

Sixth embodiment Referring to Figures 20 to 25, a fence bracket assembly 900 is shown comprising a first, base subassembly 902 and a second, brace assembly 904. The assembly 900 is shown securing a rigid mesh fence 906 comprising a post 908 and a first mesh panel 910 secured thereto. The post 908 is elongate, prismatic and tubular having a square cross section, with an opening 916 at a first end. The panel 910 is constructed from a metal mesh having horizontal members 912 and vertical members 914 arranged in a grid pattern. It will be noted that the fence 906 is shown in dashed lines.

The first base subassembly 902 comprises a fence bracket 1010. The fence bracket 1010 comprises a body 1012. The body 1012 is made up of a base 1014 and a front wall 1020.

The front wall 1020 may be a substantially vertical region 1020. The body 1012 shown in Figure 1 further has sidewalls 1016 and 1018. The sidewalls 1016, 1018 connect to the front wall 1020 and provide structural reinforcement to the front wall 1020. The sidewalls may taper towards the base 1014 from a maximum height at or adjacent to the front wall 1020. The fence bracket 1010 is therefore arranged as a box section.

The base 1014 of the fence bracket 1010 has a portion 1032 for receiving a ground penetrating member 1040 (shown in dashed lines). The portion 1032 is preferably a hole or aperture 1030 which is complementary to a ground penetrating member 1040. The aperture 1030 is located on a "restricted" side of the fence bracket 1010 such that it cannot be accessed from a "public" side when part of a fence assembly 900 as shown in Figure 20.

In one embodiment the ground penetrating member 1040 is a ground screw 1040 also known as a ground penetrating screw. Such screws are described above.

The ground screw 1040 is received in the hole 1030 in use. The ground screw 1040 has a flanged region or flange 1042.

The base 1014 has a hole 1027 which is a drainage hole. The hole 1027 is located between the aperture 1030 and the front wall 1020.

The fence bracket 1010 has a support 1222 extending from the front wall 1020 of the body 1012. The support 1222 is a fence post support. The support 1222 is shaped as shown in The support 1222 comprises a support body 1224 and a joint arrangement 1226. The support body 1224 comprises a prismatic square section 1228 being open at a first end, and having a U-shaped bracket portion 1230 at a second end. The bracket 1230 comprises a base plate 1232 and two flanges 1234, 1236.

The joint arrangement 1226 comprises a first shaft 1238 and a second shaft 1240. The first shaft 1238 extends between the flanges 1234, 1236 of the bracket 1230. The shaft 1238 is mounted to the bracket 1230. A sleeve 1242 surrounds the shaft 1238 such that the sleeve 1242 can rotate relative thereto about a pitch axis PA. The second shaft 1240 is attached to the sleeve, perpendicular thereto and protecting from a midpoint thereof. The second shaft 1240 defines a roll axis RA, normal to, and intersecting with, the pitch axis PA.

The support 1222 is attached to the front wall 1020 of the body 1012 such that it can rotate relative thereto about the roll axis. Therefore the support body 1224 can rotate relative to the body 1012 about two axes RA and PA, normal to a primary axis A of the support body 1224.

The second, brace subassembly 904 provides stability to the fence bracket system and as such reduces the effect of sideloading or wind on the fence. The brace 904 comprises abody in the form of a brace plate 918, a brace pole 920 and a post clamp 922.

The brace plate 918 has a brace pole support 924. The brace pole support 924 is an angled plate to which the brace pole 920 is attached.

The brace pole 920 comprises an elongate tubular body 926 having a clamp plate 928 at a first end. The clamp plate 928 defines an opening.

The post clamp 922 is shown in more detail in Figures 24 and 25. The clamp 922 comprises a first part 930 which is generally U-shaped having two slots 932a, 934a defined in each leg. The clamp 922 further comprises a second part 936 which is a plate defining two slots 932b, 934b, and an opening 938 having a captured nut 939.

The fence bracket assembly 900 is assembled as follows.

The fence bracket 1010 is secured in place by inserting a ground screw into the aperture 1030.

The post 908 is assembled with the support 1222 by inserting the square section 1228 into the post 908 (or vice versa in some embodiments). Optionally it may be secured in place e.g., with a screw or bolt. The post 908 can then be moved in two degrees of freedom (PA and RA) relative to the bracket 1010.

The post clamp 922 is assembled with the post by inserting the post 908 into the mouth of the first part 930, and engaging the cooperating slots 932a, b, 934a, b of the first and second parts 930, 936. The clamp plate 928 of the brace pole 920 can be inserted between the clamp 922 and the post 908 and a fastener passed through the openings and captured nut 393 to secure the assembly together.

A second ground screw can then be used to secure the brace plate 918 to the ground at a position further from the fence than the base subassembly. The brace pole 920 is typically oriented at an angle between 10 and 80 degrees, more typically between 30 and 60 degrees.

Once the post is in position, the mesh panels can be affixed. It will be noted that the degree of freedom provided to the post by the joint described above.

Seventh embodiment It will be noted that in the above embodiments, the formation of the body 12 is consistent inasmuch as each embodiment has a body with a base, sidewalls and a front wall. In a further embodiment of the present invention, a standard, common body is provided with an attachment formation (for example a series of openings) on the front wall. Various attachments are provided which can augment the functionality of the body 12.

Referring to Figures 26a to 28c, in each case there is provided a common body 12. The body 12 (as described above) is made up of a base 14 and a front wall 20. The front wall 20 may be a substantially vertical region 20. The body 12 shown in Figure 1 further has sidewalls 16 and 18. The sidewalls 16, 18 connect to the front wall 20 and provide structural reinforcement to the front wall 20. The sidewalls may taper towards the base 14 from a maximum height at or adjacent to the front wall 20.

The base 14 defines a portion 32 for receiving a ground penetrating member. The portion 32 is preferably a hole or aperture 30 which is complementary to a ground penetrating member.

The aperture 30 is located on a "restricted" side of the fence bracket such that it cannot be accessed from the "public" side when part of a fence assembly.

Two vertically spaced and vertically aligned openings 44, 46 are provided in the front wall 25 20.

Referring to Figures 26a and 26b, a first module in the form of a bracket 800 is provided. The bracket 800 comprises a hollow tube section 802 and a mounting flange 804 attached to the section 802 via a mounting arm 806. The mounting flange 804 has two openings therethrough to enable it to be attached to the front wall 20 via the openings 44, 46 using appropriate mechanical fasteners. The tube section is used to receive a scaffolding pole, hand rail or key clamp.

Referring to Figures 27a and 27b, a first module in the form of a bracket 1300 is provided.

The bracket 1300 comprises two spaced-apart hollow tube sections 1302, 1303 and a mounting flange 1304. The mounting flange 1304 has two openings therethrough to enable it to be attached to the front wall 20 via the openings 44, 46 using appropriate mechanical fasteners.

Referring to Figures 28a to 28c, a third module in the form of the aforementioned support 1222 is provided. The support 1222 attaches to the front wall 20 via the lower opening 46.

In this way, the system is made modular, cutting down on part variability. The present invention provides for a kit comprising: * A body 12; and, * Two or more modules (of the bracket 800, bracket 1300 and support 1222); * Wherein one of the modules is selected to provide the required functionality of the bracket.

Eialith embodiment Referring to Figures 29a to 29c, an eighth embodiment is shown in which a fence bracket 1110 is similar to the bracket 10 with features numbered 1100 greater. The bracket 1110 forms part of a system with an arm 1170 shown in Figure 29c. The arm 1170 and bracket 1110 work in the same way as the arm 70 and bracket 10.

This embodiment is configured to work with the type of fencing found in Australia.

Ninth embodiment Referring to Figures 30a to 30c, a ninth embodiment is shown in which a fence bracket 1210 is similar to the bracket 10 with features numbered 1200 greater. The bracket 1210 forms part of a system with an arm 1270 shown in Figure 30c. The arm 1270 and bracket 1210 work in the same way as the arm 70 and bracket 10.

It will be noted that the fence post supports 1222, 1224 extend further from ground level (in use) than the supports 20, 24 of the bracket 10. Further, they are mounted to the front wall 1220 not directly, but via the tab 1228. The tab, in this embodiment, is formed from a separate component having an aperture 1230 disposed between openings for the two supports 1222, 1224.

This embodiment is configured to work with the type of fencing found in the US and Canada.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A fence post support bracket (10) comprising: a body (12) having a base (14), a front wall (20), a first side wall (16) and a second side wall (18); and a first support (22) and a second support (24); wherein: the base comprises a mating formation (32) for a ground-penetrating member (40); the first support (22) and the second support (24) are: configured to connect to a first and second respective fence posts; and, are provided on the front wall (20); and wherein the front wall (20) has a region comprising an aperture (30) suitable for receiving an ancillary component (70), the region comprising the aperture being disposed between the first support (22) and the second support (24).
2. The fence bracket (10) of claim 1 wherein the region comprising the aperture comprises a tab (28) extending from the front wall (20).
3. The fence bracket (10) of claim 2 wherein a portion (29) of the tab (28) is bent such that the portion (29) extends substantially perpendicularly from the front wall (20).
4. The fence bracket (10) of claim 2 or 3 wherein the aperture (30) is located on the tab (28).
5. The fence bracket (10) of any preceding claim, wherein the mating formation comprises a portion (32) suitable for receiving a ground penetrating member (40).
6. The fence bracket (10) of any preceding claim, wherein the body (12) further comprises an ancillary support (26) connected to the base (14) and/or front wall (20); wherein the ancillary support (26) is suitable to receive an ancillary support component.
7. The fence bracket (10) any preceding claim, wherein the base (14) further comprises at least one hole (34) suitable for receiving an anchor bolt for fixing the fence bracket (10) to hardstanding or hard ground.
8. The fence bracket (10) of any preceding claim, wherein the aperture (30) has an axis (Al) that is parallel to an axis (A2) of the first fence support (22) and parallel to an axis (A3) of the second fence support (24)).
9. The fence bracket (10) of any claim 8, wherein the axes (Al), (A2), (A3) are co-planar.
10. The fence bracket (10) of any preceding claim, wherein the first and second supports (22, 24) are suitable for mating with a fence post in sliding engagement.
11. The fence bracket (10) of claim 10, wherein the first and second supports (22, 24) are tubes suitable for receiving a fence post.
12. The fence bracket (10) of claim 11, wherein the first and second supports (22, 24) are configured such that in use the fence posts are uncovered over a distance (D3) between the bottom of the first and second supports (22, 24) and the ground to enable said fence posts to be fastened together with a fastener (50).
13. The fence bracket (10) of claim 2 or any claim dependent thereon wherein a top surface of the first and second fence post supports (22, 24) is below the tab (28) such that in use the fence posts received by the first and second supports (22, 24) are uncovered enabling said fence posts to be fastened together with a fastener (50) such that pulling upward engages the fastener (50) with the tab (28) preventing fence post removal.
14. A fence bracket system (100) comprising: a fence bracket (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 13; and further comprising at least one ancillary component (110).
15. The fence bracket system (100) of claim 14 wherein the at least one ancillary component (110) is at least one: an arm (70); and/or a fastener (50) and/or a levelling device.
16. The fence bracket system (100) of claim 14 or 15 wherein the fence bracket system (100) further comprises an ancillary support component (120); wherein the ancillary support component (120) is one of: a stabilizer; or a brace; or a camera pole; or a solar light; or a flag pole; or a fixture.
17. The fence bracket system (100) of any of claims 14 to 16 wherein the at least one ancillary component (110) is an arm (70) and wherein the arm (70) comprises an aperture engaging portion (72) disposed at one end of said arm (70) configured to removably engage aperture (30) of the fence bracket (10).
18. The fence bracket system (100) of claim 17 wherein the arm (70) further comprises an arm aperture (74) disposed at a second end of said arm (70) suitable for receiving a fastener (50).
19. The fence bracket system (100) of any of claims 14 to 18 wherein the at least one ancillary component (110) further comprises a fastener (50).
20. A fence bracket (1010) suitable for use with a fence post comprising: a body (1012) comprising a portion (32) suitable for receiving a ground-penetrating member (40); and, a support (1022) configured to connect to a fence post, the support provided on the body (1012) such that the support is pivotable about at least one axis relative to the body (1012).
21. The fence bracket (1010) of claim 20, wherein the support is pivotable about at least two axes relative to the body (1012).
22. The fence bracket (1010) of claim 21, wherein the two axes are normal to each other, and to a main axis of the support.
23. The fence bracket (1010) of any of claims 20 to 22, wherein the body has a base (1014), a front wall (1020), a first side wall (1016) and a second side wall (1018), and wherein the support is mounted to the front wall.
24. A fence bracket system (900) comprising: 33 a base subassembly (902) configured to support the base of a fence post, the base subassembly comprising a fence bracket (1010) according to any one of claims 20 to 24; and, a brace subassembly (904), the base subassembly comprising: an elongate brace member; a body at a first end of the elongate brace member, the body comprising a portion suitable for receiving a ground penetrating member; a post bracket at a second end of the elongate brace member, the post bracket configured to engage with a fence post at a position spaced-apart from the ground.
25. A fence bracket system (900) according to claim 24, wherein the post bracket is a post clamp configured to clamp a fence post in use.
26. A kit of parts comprising the components of the fence bracket system of any of claims 14 to 19 or claims 24 to 25.
27. The kit of parts of claim 26 further comprising at least one fence post and associated fence panel.
28. A fence assembly comprising: a fence bracket system of any of claims 14 to 19 or claims 24 to 25; and at least one fence post and associated fence panel.
29. A modular fence bracket kit, the kit comprising: a body (12) having a base (14), a front wall (20), a first side wall (16) and a second side wall (18), wherein the base comprises a mating formation (32) for a ground-penetrating member (40); and, a plurality of different fence-post supporting modules, the modules being interchangeably attachable to the body (12) to form a fence post support.
30. A modular fence bracket kit according to claim 29, a module of the plurality of modules comprising: a first support (22) and a second support (24) configured to connect to a first and second respective fence posts; and, a region comprising an aperture (30) suitable for receiving an ancillary component (70), the region comprising the aperture being disposed between the first support (22) and the second support (24).
31. A modular fence bracket kit according to claim 29 or 30, a module of the plurality of modules comprising: a support (1022) configured to connect to a fence post, the support provided such that the support is pivotable about at least one axis relative to the body (1012) in use.
32. A method of manufacturing a fence bracket comprising: cutting a shape from a material sheet; folding the shape to form a body comprising a base and a front wall (20); cutting an aperture into the material sheet; and connecting a support to the body.
33. The method of manufacturing a fence bracket of claim 32, further comprising: folding the shape to form a first and second side wall; joining the side walls to the front wall.
34. The method of manufacturing a fence bracket of claim 32 or 33 further comprising: welding the support to the body.