Self-retaining post protector

Abstract

A post protector with integrally molded self-retaining features to help secure this device to the base of wooden posts to prevent damage that is typically caused by corded grass trimming tools. This four panel device can be assembled to free standing posts or posts that are used in pre-existing fence construction, and it contains features to allow the post protector to be modified to accommodate swing set support posts. The integrated self-retaining features of this device can also be used to market or display this device in retail outlets. In another embodiment of this invention, an integrally molded flange or a series of flanges are used to prevent grass or vegetation from growing between the self-retaining post protector and the post itself. In yet another embodiment of this invention this device contains flanges on each of the four panels to prevent the rotating cord from moving over the top edge to further protect the post.

1 . A self-retaining post protector for protecting a square or rectangular post comprised of: 
 a device having typically four panels integrally connected through continuous material construction, and is further defined by having two interior panels and two exterior panels that are manufactured with appropriately sized reduced cross sections at respective corners to allow this device to be easily folded for assembly, which is made possible through the use of standard molding process that will produce this device in a flat or developed state. Said reduction in cross section creates hinges to connect respective panels for self-retaining continuity and strength. Through the use of features exclusive to this device and respective manufacturing techniques, this device can also be designed to fit a variety of geometrically shaped posts, such as circular or octagonal sections.    
   
   
       2 . The post protector of  claim 1  wherein the geometry of said post protector is conducive and suitable, but not limited to, the use of Polypropylene material of appropriate grade and composition.  
   
   
       3 . The post protector of  claim 1 , further comprising an integrally molded flange on the top edge of each of the panels described in  claim 1  that are projected outward with an appropriate length to prevent rotating cord of grass trimmer from moving over top edge of this device to further protect post from inadvertent damage.  
   
   
       4 . The post protector of  claim 1 , further comprising an integrally molded tab centrally located on the edge of one of the two exterior panels described in  claim 1  with an integrally molded retention feature on said tab to attach to and through a facilitating opening on the second exterior panel to provide a means of retention upon assembly to secure and locate device described in  claim 1  to a post.  
   
   
       5 . The post protector of  claim 1 , further comprising an integrally molded tab or a plurality of molded tabs on and along the edge of one of the two exterior panels described in  claim 1  with an integrally molded retention feature on said tab(s) to attach to and through facilitating opening(s) on the second exterior panel to provide a means of retention upon assembly to secure and locate device described in  claim 1  to post.  
   
   
       6 . The post protector of  claim 1 , further comprising an integrally molded tab on and along the entire edge of one of the two exterior panels described in  claim 1  with an integrally molded retention feature on said tab to attach to a facilitating opening that is integrally molded on and along the entire edge of the second exterior panel to provide a means of retention upon assembly to secure and locate device described in  claim 1  to post.  
   
   
       7 . The post protector of  claim 1 , having an integrally molded attachment feature on exterior panel used to accommodate and facilitate attachment of said molded tab described in  claim 4  for use in marketing and displaying this device described in  claim 1  by means of accommodating standard looped-wire hangers typically used in retail businesses.  
   
   
       8 . The post protector of  claim 1 , having an integrally molded attachment features on exterior panel used to accommodate and facilitate attachments of said molded tabs described in  claim 5  for use in marketing and displaying this device described in  claim 1  by means of accommodating standard looped-wire hangers typically used in retail businesses.  
   
   
       9 . The post protector of  claim 1 , having integrally molded sets of holes on exterior panels described in  claim 1  for use in marketing and displaying of this device described in  claim 1  by means of accommodating standard wire rods typically used in retail businesses.  
   
   
       10 . The post protector of  claim 1 , further comprising an integrally molded single flange or a plurality of flanges on inside surfaces of the interior and exterior panels described in  claim 1  that would be directed inward to contact the post to prevent grass or vegetation from growing between the said post protector and the post itself. Said molded flange(s) can also used to create an opposing force in self-retaining feature described in  claim 4  and  claim 5  to further strengthen joint.  
   
   
       11 . A post protector as in any of the preceding claims that further comprises integrally molded grooves that reside on the inside surfaces of the interior and exterior panels described in  claim 1  that correspond and equate to the resultant standard angle of common swing set support posts, to provide a means of guiding modification of present invention prior to assembly and installation on to said posts.