A fence insert is an object designed to fit or clip into standard chain-link fencing. Current products on the market include privacy slats that weave through the fence, plastic-shaped cups designed to clip into open cells, and two-part interlocking units which attach together at the crossover of fence wires.[1]

Patent for a fence insert (1893)

History

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The origin of fence inserts can be traced back to U.S. patent #507,952, filed by Clarence White of Minneapolis, Minnesota in 1893.[citation needed] The invention consists of "marbles or other loose independent filling pieces" sized to allow placement within the cells of a wire mesh. The purpose of the invention is described as providing "a convenient and economical means of lettering, ornamenting, or filling" the wire mesh.

Objectives

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There are three main objectives typically fulfilled by fence inserts. One is to provide privacy by converting chain link fencing into an opaque surface.[1] Another is to exploit the fence as a site for signage, often providing low-resolution displays of corporate logos, sports mascots or verbal messages. A third objective of fence inserts is to decorate otherwise plain fencing.[2]

See also

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References

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  1. ^ a b Fences and Retaining Walls McElroy, W. 1990.
  2. ^ Encyclopaedia Britannica - Wire 1957. Vol 23.
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