Patent Publication Number: US-2005116213-A1

Title: Pole assembly for a mesh fence and mesh fence having a pole assembly

Description:
This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/517,109, filed Nov. 5, 2003, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION  
      1. Field of the Invention  
      The present invention is directed to mesh fences that are generally utilized as removable safety barriers. In particular, the present invention is directed to pole assemblies attachable to the mesh of the mesh fence.  
      2. Description of Related Art  
      Mesh fences have been commonly utilized as removable safety barriers. In this regard, whereas such mesh fences have been utilized in various different applications, such mesh fences are frequently used as safety barriers for swimming pools and the like where fencing is desirable to keep small children from accidentally drowning, or otherwise being injured. Mesh fences are made from a long piece of flexible mesh made of woven nylon or other appropriate material(s) to which a plurality of poles are attached. Generally, the mesh has reinforced edge hems to increase strength and prevent tearing. The poles attached to the mesh define multiple panels. The poles are slid into mounting receptacles which are essentially sleeved receiving holes that are positioned along the periphery of the swimming pool thereby forming a fence around the swimming pool. Such mesh fences are well known in the art as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,553,833 to Bohen, U.S. Pat. No. 5,664,769 to Sadinsky et al., and U.S. Pat. No. 5,794,990 to Coppedge.  
       FIG. 53  shows a portion of a conventional mesh fence  1100  that utilizes conventional methods and devices for attaching the poles  1104  to the mesh  1102 . The mesh  1102  may be provided with a reinforcing edge hems  1103 . Generally, each of the poles  1104  are attached to the mesh  1102  using an attachment plate  1106  and a plurality of screws  1108 , each pole  1104  at least partially defining mesh panels  1107  and  1107 ′. The pole  1104  is attached to a continuous mesh  1102  in the manner described below.  
      As shown in the partial cross sectional view of  FIG. 54 , the mesh  1102  is positioned between the outer surface of the pole  1104  and the inner surface of the attachment plate  1106 . Then, a plurality of screws  1108  are used to attach the attachment plate  1106 , together with the mesh  1102 , to the pole  1104 . Once constructed, the lower portion  1105  of the pole  1104  is inserted into a mounting receptacle (not shown).  
      The mesh fences so constructed are advantageous in that they are economical to manufacture and install when compared to other types of fencing. Most of the available mesh minimizes the visual impact of the mesh fence since the mesh panels are partially see through. In addition, the mesh fence can be readily removed, and because the panels of the mesh fence are flexible, the mesh fence can be rolled for storage. Furthermore, an access opening may be integrated into the mesh fence by merely providing two separate panels adjacent to one another so that the poles may be lifted out of the mounting receptacle and moved aside so as to provide an entry way through the mesh fence.  
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
      The above advantages have allowed such mesh fences to gain in popularity, especially in swimming pool applications. However, because fencing is used to provide a barrier in various applications and are not uniform in shape or size, custom installation of the mesh fence is required. For example, in the swimming pool applications, one swimming pool may be a rectangle while another swimming pool may have an intricate shape with various curvatures and designs. Thus, care must be taken to properly attach the poles to the mesh so that when the poles are inserted into the corresponding mounting receptacle, the mesh panels between adjacent poles are taut to provide an effective safety barrier.  
      A significant disadvantage of the conventional mesh fences which attach the poles to the mesh in the conventional manner shown in  FIGS. 53 and 54  discussed above is that it is very cumbersome to attach the attachment plate using screws. Because the mesh is secured using about ten screws for each pole, and each screw must be threaded into the pole, the process of installing a conventional mesh fence is labor intensive requiring the fastening of literally hundreds of screws. Even if the poles are secured to the mesh and sold as a prefabricated mesh fence, some degree of customization is required to accommodate for the various shapes and sizes in which the mesh fence is used, as well as for providing gates.  
      If the poles are attached at incorrect locations along the mesh so that the defined mesh panels are too short, one or more of the poles may not be properly aligned for insertion into the corresponding mounting receptacles thereby preventing use of the mesh fence. Alternatively, if the poles are attached at incorrect locations along the mesh so that the defined mesh panels are too long, the mesh panel between two adjacent poles would not be taut. In such an improperly installed state, the mesh panel may allow the panel to be pushed inwardly which would defeat the purpose of having the mesh fence. For example, in the swimming pool application, an oversized mesh panel may allow a child to reach the swimming pool.  
      The above described conventional poles may be repositioned along the mesh to correct such misalignment of the poles. However, the attachment plate and the screws must be removed, and reattached elsewhere on the mesh which requires significant time and effort. In addition, because the screws pierce through the mesh, the mesh becomes damaged with series of numerous holes that reduce the strength of the mesh. This is especially problematic since the series of holes are aligned and extend into the midsection of the mesh, thus, significantly reducing the strength of the fencing. Furthermore, such holes detract from the aesthetic appeal of the completed mesh fence.  
      In view of the foregoing, an advantage of the present invention is in providing a mesh fence that is economical to manufacture.  
      Another advantage of the present invention is in providing a mesh fence that is easy to assemble and set up.  
      Still another advantage of the present invention is in providing a mesh fence having poles that minimize damage to the mesh when the poles are attached to the mesh.  
      Yet another advantage of the present invention is in providing a mesh fence in which the poles can be readily detached from the mesh.  
      These and other advantages are provided by a mesh fence in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention comprising a mesh, and a pole assembly secured to the mesh. The pole assembly includes a receiving member with a channel and a retaining member, at least a portion of the retaining member being dimensioned to be received in the channel of the receiving member together with a segment of the mesh retained in the channel. Thus, the pole assembly is secured to the mesh. The receiving member preferably includes protrusions that at least partially define the channel, the protrusions being spaced apart to provide a gap open to the channel.  
      In accordance with one embodiment, the retaining member includes extending hooks that interlock with the protrusions of the receiving member with a segment of the mesh retained between the retaining member and the receiving member. The hooks are dimensioned to deflect, and at least partially spring back, as the hooks interlock with the protrusions. In accordance with another embodiment, the retaining member is substantially circular in cross-section, and sized to be received in the channel of the receiving member together with the segment of the mesh retained in the channel. In this regard, the protrusions may at least partially define a substantially circular channel, and the retaining member may be implemented as a cylindrical rod.  
      In still another embodiment, the retaining member includes a shank and an enlarged portion. The shank is dimensioned to fit between the protrusions, and the enlarged portion is sized to be received in the channel with a segment of the mesh. The enlarged portion of the retaining member is preferably larger than the gap between the protrusions. In one implementation, the enlarged portion may have a circular cross-sectional shape. In another implementation, the enlarged portion may have a triangular cross-sectional shape. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the portion of the retaining member received in the channel may be shaped corresponding to the shape of the channel. In such an embodiment, the portion of the retaining member received in the channel is sized to snugly fit in the channel with a segment of the mesh retained between the retaining member and the receiving member.  
      In yet another embodiment, the retaining member includes an outer portion that extends over the gap between the protrusions, the outer portion of the retaining member being arc shaped in one implementation. A retention cap that is adapted to be secured to the outer portion of the retaining member may also be provided. In still another embodiment of the mesh fence, the retaining member includes a chamfered end for facilitating assembly of the receiving member and the retaining member.  
      Moreover, the pole assembly may be provided with a slide prevention mechanism that prevents the retaining member from sliding in the channel. In this regard, in one implementation, the retaining member may be provided with a through hole, and the receiving member may be provided with an engagement hole perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the channel. In this implementation, the slide prevention mechanism includes a fastener that is inserted through the through hole of the retaining member, and engaged to the engagement hole of the receiving member. In another implementation, the slide prevention mechanism may include a threaded fastener sized to engage the channel along the longitudinal direction of the channel. In still another implementation, the slide prevention mechanism includes an insert sized to be received in the channel, the insert including a threaded hole, and a set screw that abuts against the channel, perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the channel, to thereby lodge the insert in the channel.  
      The receiving member may be substantially tubular and may include a reinforcing web. In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the mesh fencing includes an anchor device that secures the pole assembly to a surface. In this regard, the receiving member may be substantially tubular with a substantially hollow center, and the anchor device may include an extension member sized to be received in the hollow center. In another embodiment, the anchor device includes at least one fastener to secure the receiving member to the anchor device. In yet another embodiment, the anchor device further includes an expansion fastener adapted to be received in a hole provided in the surface, and expanded to secure the anchor device in the hole.  
      In still another embodiment of the present invention, the anchor device includes a tube carrier sized to receive an end of the pole assembly therein. In one implementation, the tube carrier includes an angled wedge for engaging an outer peripheral surface of the pole assembly to secure the pole assembly in the tube carrier. In another embodiment, the tube carrier may be rotatably mounted to allow angling of the pole assembly to be adjusted. The anchor device may also include a guide channel member that allows position of the pole assembly to be adjusted.  
      In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, the mesh fence may further include a gate assembly, and an interconnecting mechanism that interconnects the gate assembly to a pole assembly. Furthermore, a pole latch that is attachable to the pole assembly may be implemented for securing the pole assembly to an adjacent object. In one implementation, the pole latch comprises a pivotable hook that includes a threaded portion sized to allow engagement by a nut.  
      Another aspect of the present invention is in providing a pole assembly securable to a mesh, the pole assembly comprising an elongated receiving member having protrusions that at least partially define a channel extending substantially through the receiving member, the protrusions being spaced apart to provide a gap open to the channel, and an elongated retaining member dimensioned to be at least partially received in the channel of the receiving member together with a segment of the mesh retained in the channel to secure the pole assembly to the mesh.  
      Still another aspect of the present invention is in providing a method for assembling a mesh fence comprising the steps of providing a mesh having a first side and a second side, providing at least one pole assembly including a receiving member having a channel extending substantially therethrough, and a retaining member dimensioned to be at least partially received in the channel of the receiving member, placing the receiving member on one of the first side and the second side of the mesh, placing a segment of the mesh in the channel of the receiving member, and inserting at least a portion of the retaining member into the channel of the receiving member with the segment of the mesh retained between the retaining member and the receiving member.  
      In accordance with another embodiment, the step of inserting at least a portion of the retaining member in the channel includes sliding an enlarged portion of the retaining member into the channel from one end of the receiving member. In still another embodiment, the step of inserting at least a portion of the retaining member in the channel includes pressing the portion of the retaining member into the channel through the gap.  
      Yet another aspect of the present invention is an anchoring device for securing a fence pole to a surface, the anchoring device including an extension member attachable to the fence pole to secure the anchoring device to the fence pole, and an expansion fastener securably connected to the extension member, the expansion fastener being sized to be received in a hole provided in the surface, and expanded to secure the anchor device in the hole. In this regard, in one embodiment, the expansion fastener may include a plurality of gripping wings and an axially displaceable nut that contacts the plurality of gripping wings, and is displaceable to radially expand the plurality of gripping wings to lodge the anchoring device in the hole. The plurality of gripping wings and the nut may have tapered surfaces. In still another embodiment, the fence pole may be substantially tubular with a substantially hollow center, and the extension member may be sized to be received in the center.  
      In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention, an anchoring device for securing a fence pole to a surface is provided, the anchoring device including a guide channel member adapted to be affixed to the surface, the guide channel member having an elongated dimension, and a tube carrier movably engaging the guide channel member in a manner that the tube carrier is movable along the elongated dimension of the guide channel to allow position of the tube carrier to be adjusted. In one implementation, the tube carrier is tubular, and sized to receive an end of the fence pole therein. In another implementation, the tube carrier includes an angled wedge for engaging an outer peripheral surface of the fence pole to secure the fence pole in the tube carrier. In still another implementation, the tube carrier is rotatably mounted to allow angling of the fence pole.  
      In accordance with still another aspect of the present invention, pole latch device is provided including an eye fastener having an opening, and a pivotable hook with a threaded portion sized to pass through the opening of the eye fastener and allow engagement by a nut.  
      These and other advantages and features of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments of the present invention when viewed in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. 
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       FIG. 1  is a mesh fence in accordance with one example embodiment of the present invention that is applied to swimming pools.  
       FIG. 2  is an enlarged frontal view of a pole assembly secured to the mesh in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.  
       FIG. 3  is an end view of the pole assembly of  FIG. 2  with the top cap removed.  
       FIG. 4  is a perspective view of a portion of the receiving member for the pole assembly of  FIG. 3 .  
       FIG. 5  is a perspective view of a portion of the retaining member for the pole assembly of  FIG. 3 .  
       FIG. 6  is another end view of the pole assembly of  FIG. 2  with the top cap and the mesh removed.  
       FIG. 7  is an end view of one pole assembly secured to an end of the mesh.  
       FIG. 8  is an end view of a pole assembly secured to a mesh in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.  
       FIG. 9  is an end view of the retaining member of the embodiment of  FIG. 8 .  
       FIG. 10  is an end view of the pole assembly of  FIG. 8  where the retaining member is provided with a retention cap.  
       FIG. 11  is an enlarged view of the retention cap of  FIG. 10 .  
       FIG. 12  is an end view of a pole assembly in accordance with still another embodiment of the present invention.  
       FIG. 13A  is a front view of a receiving member for a pole assembly in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.  
       FIG. 13B  is an end view of the receiving member of  FIG. 13A .  
       FIG. 14A  is a front view of a receiving member for a pole assembly in accordance with still another embodiment of the present invention.  
       FIG. 14B  is an end view of the receiving member of  FIG. 14A .  
       FIG. 15A  is a side view of the retaining member for a pole assembly in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.  
       FIG. 15B  is an end view of the retaining member of  FIG. 15A .  
       FIG. 16A  is a side view of the retaining member for a pole assembly in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.  
       FIG. 16B  is an end view of the retaining member of  FIG. 16A .  
       FIG. 17A  is a cross-sectional side view of a pole assembly in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.  
       FIG. 17B  is an end view of the pole assembly of  FIG. 17A .  
       FIG. 18A  is a cross-sectional side view of a pole assembly in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.  
       FIG. 18B  is a cross-sectional view of the pole assembly of  FIG. 18A  as viewed along B-B.  
       FIG. 18C  is a cross-sectional view of the pole assembly of  FIG. 18A  as viewed along C-C.  
       FIG. 19  is a side profile view of another fastener that may be used in the pole assembly shown in  FIGS. 18A  to  18 C.  
       FIG. 20A  is a cross-sectional side view of a pole assembly in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.  
       FIG. 20B  is a cross-sectional view of the pole assembly of  FIG. 20A  as viewed along B-B.  
       FIG. 20C  is a cross-sectional view of the pole assembly of  FIG. 20A  as viewed along C-C.  
       FIG. 21A  is a side view of the retaining member for a pole assembly in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.  
       FIG. 21B  is an end view of the retaining member of  FIG. 21A .  
       FIG. 21C  is an underside view of the retaining member of  FIG. 21A .  
       FIG. 22A  is a cross-sectional side view of a pole assembly in accordance with still another embodiment of the present invention.  
       FIG. 22B  is a cross-sectional view of the pole assembly of  FIG. 22A  as viewed along B-B.  
       FIG. 22C  is a partial cross-sectional frontal view of the pole assembly of  FIG. 22B .  
       FIG. 22D  is a cross-sectional view of the pole assembly of  FIG. 22C  as viewed along D-D.  
       FIG. 23  is a perspective view of an anchor device in accordance with one example implementation.  
       FIG. 24  is a frontal view of a pole assembly having an anchor device of  FIG. 23  that is secured thereto.  
       FIG. 25  is a partial cross-sectional view of an anchor device in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.  
       FIG. 26  is a partial cross-sectional view of the anchor device of  FIG. 25  installed in a surface with a pole assembly secured thereto.  
       FIG. 27  is a partial cross-sectional view of an anchor device in accordance with still another embodiment of the present invention.  
       FIG. 28A  is a frontal view of a guide channel member in accordance with one example implementation.  
       FIG. 28B  is a top view of the guide channel member of  FIG. 28A .  
       FIG. 29A  is a frontal view of an anchor device in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention.  
       FIG. 29B  is a top view of the anchor device of  FIG. 29A .  
       FIG. 29C  is a cross-sectional view of the anchor device of  FIG. 29A  as viewed along C-C of  FIG. 29B .  
       FIG. 30A  is a top view of an anchor device in accordance with still another embodiment of the present invention, but with the tube carrier removed.  
       FIG. 30B  is a cross-sectional view of the anchor device of  FIG. 30A  as viewed along A-A, together with the tube carrier.  
       FIG. 31  is a perspective view of a guide channel member in accordance with one example implementation.  
       FIG. 32  is a perspective view of a guide channel member in accordance with still another example implementation.  
       FIG. 33  is a perspective view of a guide channel member in accordance with yet another example implementation.  
       FIG. 34  is a frontal view of a gate in accordance with one example implementation.  
       FIG. 35  is a perspective view of an interconnecting mechanism in accordance with one example implementation.  
       FIG. 36  is an end view of the interconnecting mechanism shown in  FIG. 35 .  
       FIG. 37A  a perspective view of an interconnecting mechanism in accordance with another example implementation.  
       FIG. 37B  is a frontal view of one end of the interconnecting mechanism of  FIG. 37A .  
       FIG. 38  is an end view of an interconnecting mechanism clearly showing one implementation of how the interconnecting mechanism may be pivotably secured to a gate pole.  
       FIG. 39  is an end view of an interconnecting mechanism clearly showing one implementation of how the interconnecting mechanism may be pivotably secured to a gate pole.  
       FIG. 40  is a frontal view of another interconnecting mechanism illustrating how the swing arm may be pivoted.  
       FIG. 41  is a perspective view of an interconnecting mechanism in accordance with yet another example implementation.  
       FIG. 42  is an end view of the interconnecting mechanism of  FIG. 41 .  
       FIG. 43  is a frontal view of a pole latch in accordance with one example implementation.  
       FIG. 44  is an enlarged frontal view of the pole latch shown in  FIG. 43 .  
       FIG. 45  is a frontal view of the pole latch of  FIG. 44  for securing a pole assembly to a wall surface.  
       FIG. 46  is a frontal view of a pole latch in accordance with another example implementation.  
       FIG. 47  is a frontal view of a pole latch in accordance with still another example implementation for securing a pole assembly to a wall surface.  
       FIG. 48  is an end view of the pole latch shown in  FIG. 47 .  
       FIG. 49  shows a bolt and nut combination that may be used in conjunction with the pole latch of  FIGS. 47 and 48 .  
       FIG. 50  shows a pad lock that may be used in conjunction with the pole latch of  FIGS. 47 and 48 .  
       FIG. 51  is a frontal view of a pole latch in accordance with yet another example implementation for securing a pole assembly to a wall surface.  
       FIG. 52  is an end view of the pole latch shown in  FIG. 51 .  
       FIG. 53  is an enlarged frontal view of a conventional prior art pole attached to the mesh.  
       FIG. 54  is a cross sectional view of a conventional prior art pole attached to the mesh. 
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT  
       FIG. 1  shows a mesh fence  10  in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention that avoids the disadvantages of conventional mesh fences, and also provides various advantages over conventional mesh fences. As will be evident by the discussion herein below, the mesh fence  10  in accordance with the illustrated embodiment is economical to manufacture, and is also easy to assemble and set up. In addition, it will also be evident how the present invention provides pole assemblies that reduce damage to the mesh when the poles are attached to, and removed from, the mesh. In particular, it will be evident how the present invention reduces the necessities for screws that are used in the prior art to secure the poles to the mesh fence. Thus, the present invention reduces the number of holes in the mesh fence as compared to prior art mesh fences so that the strength of the mesh is not significantly reduced.  
      Referring to  FIG. 1 , an example mesh fence  10  is illustrated surrounding a swimming pool  2 . Of course, the mesh fence  10  in accordance with the present invention may be readily applied to other applications to provide a barrier to a particular area, and not just around swimming pools. However, the example application of a swimming pool is used herein because mesh fences have been very successfully used in swimming pool applications for the reasons described previously. Moreover, whereas the swimming pool  2  is substantially circular so that the mesh fence  10  surrounding the swimming pool  2  is also substantially circular, the mesh fence  10  may be implemented in any shape desired to provide a barrier of an appropriate shape and size.  
      The mesh fence  10  of the illustrated example in  FIG. 1  is implemented as a plurality of fence sections, each section including a plurality of pole assemblies  12  that are secured to an elongated segment of mesh  14  in a manner further described in detail below. The mesh  14  is preferably made of flexible woven nylon or other appropriate material that can withstand various weather conditions, and also strong enough for the desired application. For example, in the illustrated embodiment as applied to swimming pools, the mesh  14  is implemented to resist forces that can be typically exerted by a child without tearing.  
      Once the plurality of pole assemblies  12  are secured to the mesh  14 , the plurality of pole assemblies  12  are secured to a surface such as a deck surface. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of pole assemblies  12  are inserted into holes  16  that are positioned in the deck surface along the periphery of the swimming pool  2 , thereby forming the mesh fence  10  around the swimming pool  2 . In this regard, the holes  16  may be provided with mounting receptacles (not shown) known in the art which retaining the pole assemblies  12  in the upright position as shown. When the plurality of pole assemblies  12  are attached to the mesh  14  in the manner shown, a plurality of panels are defined by the portion of mesh  14  between two adjacent pole assemblies  12 .  
      An access area  20  may be provided to allow an individual to pass through the mesh fence  10  to gain access to the area barricaded by the mesh fence  10 , the access area  20  being formed by panels  22  and  24 . In particular, panel  22  terminates with the pole assembly  23  which is positioned in the ground in very close proximity to pole assembly  25  of panel  24 . By removing one or both of the pole assemblies  23  and  25  from their respective holes  16 , panels  22  and/or  24  can be moved away from each other to provide an opening to allow access to the swimming pool  2 . Of course, any gap between the pole assemblies  23  and  25  of panels  22  and  24 , respectively, should be small enough to prevent an individual such as a child from passing through the access area  20  when the access area  20  is in the closed configuration shown in  FIG. 1 .  
      Optionally, a latching mechanism or a pole latch may be provided on the pole assemblies  23  and  25  that secure them together to prevent passage through the access area  20  as described in further detail below. In the illustrated embodiment, because the fence  10  is implemented as a plurality of sections of mesh, a plurality of access areas can be formed around various peripheral portions of the mesh fence  10 . Each of the sections of the fence  10  may be sized to facilitate installation and removal from the holes  16 . For example, each section may be approximately  12  feet in length and have five or six pole assemblies secured to the segment of mesh. Of course, in other embodiments, the sections and/or the mesh fence itself may be implemented with any desired dimensions or any number of pole assemblies, and the present-invention should not be construed to be limited to a particular implementation.  
       FIG. 2  illustrates an enlarged view of a portion of a pole assembly  12  in accordance with one example embodiment of the present invention, the pole assembly  12  being secured to the mesh  14 . In the illustrated embodiment, the mesh  14  has reinforced hems  28  to increase strength and prevent tearing at the edges of the mesh  14 . The pole assembly  12  includes a receiving member  30  and a retaining member  40  that allow securement of the pole assembly  12  to the mesh  14 , the details of the receiving member  30  and retaining member  40  being discussed in further detail below.  
      An optional top cap  48  is also installed on the upper end of the pole assembly  12  in the embodiment shown in  FIG. 2 . The top cap  48  covers any sharp edges of the pole assembly  12  that may be otherwise exposed, and further enhances the appearance of the pole assembly  12 . It should also be understood that in the illustrated embodiment of  FIG. 2 , the mesh  14  is a single, continuous mesh  14  to which the pole assembly  12  is secured. However, a mesh fence itself may be made with a plurality of elongated mesh segments as previously noted. Moreover, in yet another embodiment, each panel between two adjacent pole assemblies may be a separate segment of mesh.  
       FIG. 3  is an end view of the pole assembly  12  of  FIG. 2  with the top cap  48  removed so that various features of the receiving member  30  and the retaining member  40  can be clearly seen. In particular, the receiving member  30  includes a channel  34  that receives at least a portion of the retaining member  40 , while retaining a segment  17  of mesh  14  therein. The details of the receiving member and the retaining member  40  are discussed in further detail below.  
       FIG. 4  shows a perspective view of a portion of the receiving member  30  of the pole assembly  12  in accordance with the embodiment shown in  FIG. 3 . As shown, the receiving member  30  of the illustrated embodiment is elongated and substantially circular in cross-section. The receiving member  30  includes a channel  34  that is at least partially defined by protrusions  36  that are parallel to each other and define a gap  37  that opens to the channel  34 . In addition, the receiving member  30  has a substantially hollow center  31 .  
      To increase the strength of the receiving member  30 , and hence increase the strength of the pole assembly  12 , the receiving member  30  in the illustrated embodiment is further provided with a reinforcing web  38 . Of course, in other embodiments, the receiving member  30  may have various other cross-sectional shapes instead of the circular cross-sectional shape of the present embodiment. For example, the receiving member  30  may be oval, square, or rectangular in shape. Of course, the particular features of the receiving member  30  and the engagement mechanism  32  of the illustrated embodiment is provided as one example only and may be implemented differently in other embodiments.  
      The receiving member  30  may be made of aluminum and may be formed with the channel  34  integral therewith as shown. The receiving member  30  may be made from various other materials including steel, plastic, and composite materials, and be provided with differently arranged webbing.  
       FIG. 5  is a perspective view of a portion of the retaining member  40  for the embodiment of the pole assembly  12  shown in  FIG. 3 . The retaining member  40  has a generally elongated shape, and at least a portion of the retaining member  40  is dimensioned to be received in the channel of the receiving member  30 . In the illustrated embodiment, the retaining member  40  includes extending hooks  44  dimensioned to interlock with the protrusions  36  of the receiving member  30 . In particular, the hooks  44  are dimensioned to interlock with the protrusions  36  of the engagement mechanism  32  with the segment  17  of the mesh  14  retained in the channel  34  so that the pole assembly  12  is secured to the mesh  14 . In this regard, the hooks  44  are dimensioned to deflect, and at least partially spring back as the hooks  44  interlock with the protrusions  36  of the receiving member  36 .  
      As shown, the retaining member  40  includes an outer portion  41  that extends over the gap  37  of the retaining member  40 . In the illustrated implementation, the outer portion  41  is arc shaped to correspond to the shape of the receiving member  30  which is circular in the present embodiment. The outer portion  41  provides a clean look to the assembled pole assembly  12  as shown in  FIG. 2 . Of course, the retaining member  40  may have a different shape to better correspond to the shape of the receiving member  30  in other embodiments. As shown, the hooks  44  that engage the protrusions  36  are cantilevered and extend from the outer portion  41  in the present embodiment. The retaining member  30  may be formed from various materials including plastic and composite materials. In this regard, the hooks  44  that engage the protrusions  36  of the receiving member  30  may be integrally formed on the retaining member  40 , for example, by injection molding or extrusion.  
       FIG. 6  is another end view of the pole assembly  12  of  FIG. 2  with the top cap  48  and the mesh  14  removed.  FIG. 6  more clearly shows how the hooks  44  of the retaining member  40  engages the protrusions  36  of the receiving member  30 . As noted, the hooks  44  of the retaining member  40  are dimensioned to deflect and at least partially spring back as the hooks  44  engage the protrusions  36 , even with a segment of the mesh  14  retained as shown in  FIG. 3 . In this manner, the mesh  14  is clamped between the hooks  44  and the protrusions  36  so that the pole assembly  12  is securely attached to the mesh  14 .  
       FIG. 7  shows an end view of a pole assembly  23  that is attached to one end  15  of the mesh  14  to provide access area  20  described above relative to the mesh fence  10  of  FIG. 1 . As shown, the pole assembly  23  is structurally the same as the other pole assemblies  12  in that it includes a receiving member  30  having protrusions  36 , and a retaining member  40  having hooks  44 . A segment of the mesh  14  having the end  15  is received between the receiving member  30  and the retaining member  40  in the manner previously described so that the pole assembly  23  is securely attached to the mesh  14 .  
      In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a method for assembling a mesh fence such as mesh fence of  FIG. 1  is provided. The method is described herein referring to  FIG. 3  which shows a pole assembly  12  secured to the mesh  14 . The method includes the steps of providing a mesh  14  having a first side “A” and a second side “B”, and providing at least one pole assembly  12 . As described, the pole assembly  12  includes a receiving member  30  having protrusions that at least partially define a channel  34 . The retaining member  40  is dimensioned to be at least partially received in the channel  34 . The method also includes the steps of placing the receiving member  30  on the first side A or the second side B of the mesh  14 , placing a segment of the mesh  14  in the channel  34  of the receiving member  30 , and inserting at least a portion of the retaining member  40  into the channel  34  of the receiving member  30  with the segment of the mesh  14  retained therein.  
      The step of inserting at least a portion of the retaining member  40  in the channel  34  may be attained in variety of ways. For example, in the illustrated embodiment where the retaining member  40  is implemented with deflecting hooks  44 , the receiving member  30  and the retaining member  40  may be pressed together to secure the receiving member  30  and the retaining member  40  together with the segment of mesh  14  being retained in the channel  34 . Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, the hooks  44  are pressed into the channel  34 , the hooks  44  being deflected and inserted past the protrusions  36 . The hooks  44  at least partially spring back so that the hooks.  44  engage the protrusions  36  with the mesh  14  securely retained between the receiving member  40  and the retaining member  40  as shown in  FIG. 3 . Alternatively, the step of inserting at least a portion of the retaining member  40  in the channel  34  may be attained by sliding the desired portion of the retaining member  40  into the channel from one end of the receiving member  40 .  
      By providing a plurality of pole assemblies  12  that are attached to the mesh  14  in the manner described, the mesh fence  10  may be easily and cost effectively provided. In particular, the pole assemblies  12  can be quickly attached to the mesh  14  at various locations along the mesh  14  by assembling the receiving members  30  and the retaining members  40  with the mesh  14  therein between in the manner described. This reduces the need for driving screws into the pole as required in conventional mesh fences which entails significant amount of time and labor, and avoids the weakening of the mesh that can result from a series of holes in the mesh.  
      In addition, in accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the pole assembly  12  can be disassembled and detached from the mesh  14  by separating the retaining member  40  and the receiving member  30 . In the present embodiment, the hooks  44  may be disengaged from the protrusions  36  by removing the cap  48  and sliding the retaining member  40  upward so that the retaining member  40  is effectively slid off the receiving member  30 . Of course, any other appropriate method may be used to separate the retaining member  40  from the receiving member  30  to thereby release the segment of retained mesh  14 .  
       FIG. 8  is an end view of a pole assembly  50  in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention that can be secured to the mesh  14 . Similar to the previously described embodiment, the pole assembly  50  includes a receiving member  52  and a retaining member  60 . As shown, the receiving member  52  includes parallel protrusions  56  which at least partially define the channel  54 . The receiving member  52  in the present embodiment is tubular and is also provided with reinforcing web  58  to increase the strength of the receiving member  52 , and correspondingly, increase the strength of the pole assembly  50 .  
      As also shown in  FIG. 8 , the pole assembly  50  includes a retaining member  60 , the details of which is more clearly shown in  FIG. 9 . The retaining member  60  includes shank  66  that is sized to fit between the parallel protrusions  56  of the receiving member  52 . In addition, the retaining member  60  includes an enlarged portion  64  that is implemented in the present embodiment as a bulb with a substantially circular cross section. The enlarged portion  64  is provided at a tip of shank  66  in the present embodiment. The enlarged portion  64  is sized to be received in the channel  54  of the receiving member  52  with a segment of the mesh  14  retained therein in the manner shown in  FIG. 8 . As also shown, the enlarged portion  64  is sized larger than the gap between the protrusions  56  of the receiving member  52 . This prevents the retaining member  60  from becoming separated from the receiving member  52  through the gap between the protrusions  56 .  
      The retaining member  60  includes an outer portion  61  sized to cover the gap between the protrusions  56  of the receiving member  52  to enhance visual appeal to the assembled pole assembly  50 . The mesh  14  extends into the channel  54  by passing underneath the outer portion  61  of the retaining member  60 , and between the engaging protrusion  56  and the shank  66 . The mesh  14  wraps around the enlarged portion  64 , and exits the channel  54  in a reverse manner at the opposite side so that the pole assembly  50  is securely attached to the mesh  14 . The retaining member  60  may be made of plastic or other appropriate material in any appropriate manner such as by extrusion or molding.  
      In the embodiment of  FIG. 8 , it has been found that the retaining member  60  becomes cocked in the channel  54  of the receiving member  52  when the mesh  14  is subjected to tension such as when a person pushes on the mesh  14  when the mesh fencing is installed. The cocking of the retaining member  60  further acts to grip the mesh  14 , and correspondingly, further secures the mesh  14  to the pole assembly  50 .  
      As noted, the enlarged portion  64  is sized larger than the gap between the protrusions  56  in the illustrated embodiment. Correspondingly, the retaining member  60  is preferably installed from the ends of the receiving member  52 . More specifically, the pole assembly  50  is secured to the mesh  14  by inserting a segment of the mesh in the channel  54 , and sliding the enlarged portion  64  of the retaining member  60  into the channel  54  at the exposed end of the receiving member  52  with the segment of mesh received within the channel  54 . Alternatively, the mesh  14  may be held together with the retaining member  60  as the retaining member  60  is slid onto the receiving member  52  so that the channel  54  receives the enlarged portion  64  and the segment of mesh in the channel  54 . Of course, in alternative embodiments, the receiving member  52  may be dimensioned and made from a slightly compressible material such as plastic so that it can be snapped into the channel with the mesh  14 .  
       FIG. 10  is an end view of the pole assembly  50  of  FIG. 8  where the retaining member  60  is provided with a retention cap  70 . The provision of the retention cap  70  is especially useful in embodiments where the mesh  14  terminates at the pole assembly, for example, to provide a access area in the manner previously described relative to  FIG. 1 . In particular, as shown in  FIG. 10 , the end of the mesh  14  is wrapped around the outer portion  61  of the retaining member  60 , and retained thereon by the retention cap  70 .  
       FIG. 11  is an enlarged view of the retention cap  70  which includes an interior portion  72  sized to retain the outer portion  61  of the retaining member  60  together with the end of the mesh  14  in the manner shown in  FIG. 10 . The retention cap  70  of the illustrated embodiment includes an engagement hook  74  and a clip detent  76 . The retention cap  70  is installed onto the outer portion  61  of the retaining member  60  by initially inserting one end of the outer portion  61  into the interior portion  72 , and engaging it with the engagement hook  74 . The retention cap  70  is pressed onto the retaining member  60  so that the clip detent  76  engages the other end of the outer portion  61 , thereby securing the retention cap  70  in the manner shown. As can be readily appreciated, the retention cap  70  further secures the mesh  14  so that the pole assembly  50  does not detach from the mesh  14  upon application of tension on the mesh  14 . In this regard, this is especially desirable if the pole assembly  50  is attached to an edge segment of the mesh  14 . In addition, the use of the retention cap  70  also enhances the visual appeal by hiding from view, the edge segment of the mesh  14 .  
       FIG. 12  is end view of a pole assembly  80  in accordance with still another embodiment of the present invention that can be secured to the mesh  14 . The pole assembly  80  includes a receiving member  82  and a retaining member  90 . As shown, the receiving member  82  includes parallel protrusions  86  which at least partially define a substantially circular channel  84 . The retaining member  90  in the illustrated embodiment is implemented as a circular rod sized to be received within the channel  84  together with the mesh  14  in the circular channel  84  in the manner shown. Hence, the retaining member  90  is shaped corresponding to shape of the channel  84 , the retaining member  90  being completely received in the channel  84  together with the segment of the mesh  14 .  
      More specifically, the retaining member  90  is sized to fit snugly within the channel  84  when inserted into the channel  84  together with the mesh  14  so that the mesh  14  is disposed and held between the retaining member  90  and the receiving member  82 . The retaining member  90  is sized so that the mesh  14  does not move within the channel  84  upon application of tension to the mesh  14 . Of course, in other embodiments, the channel  84  may be shaped differently and the retaining member  90  may be correspondingly shaped to be received therein, or shaped in any appropriate manner to be received in the channel while retaining the segment of mesh therein.  
      In a similar manner to the embodiment of  FIG. 8  discussed above, the retaining member  90  shown in  FIG. 12  may be inserted into the channel  84  at an end of the receiving member  82 . The retaining member  90  may be made of plastic or other appropriate material. Of course, unlike the previously described embodiments, the protrusions of the receiving member  82  that secures the pole assembly  80  to the mesh  14  is visible since no outer portion is provided in the illustrated embodiment.  
       FIGS. 13A and 13B  show front and end views, respectively, of a receiving member  100  for a pole assembly in accordance with another implementation. In referencing both of these figures, the receiving member.  100  is substantially elongated and tubular in shape. The receiving member  100  includes a channel  102  that is partially defined by protrusions  104  as most clearly shown in  FIG. 13B . In addition, the receiving member  100  includes webbing  105  that further define the channel.  102 , the webbing  105  is provided with holes  106  and  108  that may be used to secure a retaining member in the manner described in further detail below.  
       FIGS. 14A and 14B  show front and end views, respectively, of receiving member  110  in accordance with still another implementation. Similar to the previously described embodiment, the receiving member  110  includes a channel  112  that is partially defined by the protrusions  114 . However, in the illustrated embodiment, the receiving member  110  is only provided with a single hole  108 .  
       FIGS. 15A and 15B  show side and end views, respectively, of a retaining member  120  in accordance with one example implementation that may be utilized with the receiving members described relative to  FIGS. 13A  to  14 B. As can be seen, the retaining member  120  is substantially elongated in shape, and includes an enlarged portion  122  that is sized to be received in a channel of a receiving member. As most clearly shown in  FIG. 15B , the enlarged portion  122  of the retaining member  120  has a circular cross-sectional shape. The retaining member  120  includes a shank  124  that is dimensioned to fit between the protrusions of the receiving member, and also includes an outer portion  126  which extends over the gap between the protrusions.  
       FIGS. 16A and 16B  show front and end views of a retaining member  130  in accordance with another example implementation. The retaining member  130  is substantially similar to that discussed above relative to  FIGS. 15A and 15B  in that the enlarged portion  132 , the shank  134 , and outer portion  136  are provided. However, in the illustrated embodiment, the retaining member  130  is provided with a chamfer  138  at one end of the enlarged portion  132 . Provision of the chamfer  138  allows the retaining member to be easily assembled with a receiving member such as those described above relative to  FIGS. 13A  to  14 B. In particular, the chamfer  138  allows the enlarged portion  132  to be slid into the corresponding channel of the receiving member, together with the segment of mesh retained in the channel as previously described. Of course, the chamfer may also be provided on the opposite end of the retaining member  130 , such provision allowing the retaining member  130  to be installed into the channel from either direction.  
       FIGS. 17A and 17B  show a cross-sectional side view, and an end view, respectively, of a pole assembly  140  in accordance with one example embodiment of the present invention. As shown in these figures, the pole assembly  140  includes a receiving member  142  having a channel  143 , and a retaining member  144 . The receiving member  142  is implemented as a substantially elongated tube having a hollow center  149 , the channel  143  being at least partially defined by protrusions  145  that, in the present embodiment, extend parallel to each other along the length of the receiving member  144 . In addition, the receiving member  142  of the pole assembly  140  includes webbing  147 .  
      The enlarged portion  150  of the retaining member  144  is received in the channel  143  of the receiving member  142 . The shank  152  extends through the gap between the protrusions  145  while the outer portion  154  extends over the gap between the protrusions  145 . As shown, the enlarged portion  150  is sized to retain a small segment of mesh  14  in the channel  143  of the receiving member  142 . In the illustrated embodiment, fasteners  156  pass perpendicularly through the retaining member  144 , and are secured to the webbing  147  of the receiving member  142 . A top cap  148  is provided in the illustrated embodiment to prevent moisture from entering the pole assembly  140 , and to further enhance cosmetic appeal.  
      It is also noted that in the illustrated embodiment, the fasteners  156  are perpendicular to the channel  143 , and thus, pierce through the mesh  14  so that the mesh will not slide in the channel  143 . However, as can be seen in the cross-sectional view of  FIG. 17A , the mesh  14  is pierced at the very top edge and at the very bottom edge thereof. Consequently, even if the pole assembly  140  is removed from the mesh  14 , and resecured at a different location to adjust its position along the mesh  14 , the strength and visual appeal of the mesh fencing is not significantly degraded as compared to the prior art. In this regard, as noted, prior art methods for securing fence poles to the mesh included utilizing plurality of fasteners along the pole so that the mesh is pierced with numerous holes extending along the vertical height of the mesh, thereby decreasing its strength and its esthetic appeal when the fence pole is positioned elsewhere on the mesh.  
       FIGS. 18A, 18B , and  18 C show various views of a pole assembly  160  in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. In particular,  FIG. 18A  shows a cross-sectional side view of the pole assembly  160 , while  FIG. 18B  shows a cross-sectional view along B-B of the pole assembly  160  as shown in  FIG. 18A . In addition,  FIG. 18C  shows a cross-sectional view of the pole assembly  160  as viewed along C-C.  
      As shown in these figures, the pole assembly  160  includes a receiving member  162  having a channel  163 , and a retaining member  164 . An enlarged portion  170  of the retaining member  164  is received in the channel  163  of the receiving member  162 , together with a segment of mesh  14  retained therein. Shank  172  of retaining member  162  extends between the protrusions  165  while the outer portion  174  of the retaining member  164  extends over the gap between the protrusions  165 .  
      In the illustrated embodiment, fasteners  176  prevent the retaining member  164 , as well as the mesh  14 , from sliding in the channel  163 . In this regard, the threaded fasteners  176  are sized to engage the channel  163  along the longitudinal direction of the channel  163  in the manner shown. The threads of the fasteners  176  engage the top and bottom edges of the mesh  14  as well as the tips of the protrusions  165  as most clearly shown in  FIG. 18B  so as to retain both the retaining member  164 , as well as the mesh,  14  in the channel  163 . In addition, a top cap  168  may be provided as shown. One advantage of the illustrated embodiment of the pole assembly  160  is that the mesh is not pierced. Consequently, the pole assembly  160  can be relocated on the mesh  14  with minimal damage to the mesh  14 .  
      Whereas  FIGS. 18A  shows fastener  176  which is implemented as a lock screw,  FIG. 19  shows a alternative fastener  180  implemented as a screw that may be used instead of the fasteners  176  shown. Of course, different types of fasteners may be used in other embodiments, and the present invention is not limited thereto.  
       FIG. 20A, 20B , and  20 C show various views of a pole assembly  190  in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention. As can be seen, the pole assembly  190  is similar to the pole assembly described above relative to  FIG. 18A  to  18 C. However, the retaining member  194  is implemented as a cylindrical rod that is sized to be received in the channel  193  of the receiving member  192 , together with a segment of mesh  14  therein. Fasteners  196  are provided and used to retain the retaining member  194  and the segment of mesh  14  so as to prevent the retaining member  194  and the mesh  14  from sliding in the channel  193 . Top cap  198  is also provided.  
       FIGS. 21A, 21B , and  21 C show various views of a retaining member  200  in accordance with yet another implementation. As clearly shown in  FIG. 21B , the retaining member  200  includes an enlarged portion  202 , a shank  204 , and an outer portion  206 . In contrast with the prior embodiments, the enlarged portion  202  is implemented to have a substantially triangular cross-section. As also shown in  FIG. 21A , a chamfer  210  is provided at one end of the enlarged portion  202  so as to facilitate insertion of the retaining member  200  into a channel of the receiving member. In this regard, as shown in  FIG. 21C  that illustrates an underside view of the retaining member  200 , the chamfer  210  is implemented to be pointed toward the edge, thereby further facilitating insertion of the enlarged portion  202  into a channel of a receiving member. Furthermore, referring again to  FIG. 21A , the retaining member  200  is provided with set screws  208  that can be utilized to prevent sliding of the mesh as described in further detail below.  
       FIGS. 22A  to  22 D show various views of a pole assembly  220  in accordance with still another embodiment of the present invention that utilizes a retaining member such as that described previously relative to  FIG. 21A  to  21 C. As can be seen, the pole assembly  220  includes a receiving member  222  that has a channel  226 . In addition, the retaining member  224  is also provided, the enlarged portion  225  of the retaining member  224  being received in the channel  226  of the receiving member  222 , together with a segment of mesh  14  therein. The retaining member  224  also includes an outer portion  228 .  
      To prevent the retaining member  224  from sliding within the channel  226 , inserts  230  are provided at the ends of the retaining member  224 . As most clearly shown in  FIGS. 22A and 22D , the inserts  230  are sized to be received in the channel  226 , and further include a threaded hole with a set screw  232  that can be threaded so that the inserts  230  abut against the channel  226  perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the channel  226 , to thereby lodge the insert  230  in the channel  226 . As most clearly shown in  FIG. 22D , the insert  230  is pressed up against the protrusions of the receiving member  222  by the set screw  232  so that the insert  230  acts as a physical barrier against sliding movement of the retaining member  224  in the channel  226 .  
      Moreover, as also clearly shown in  FIG. 22A , the retaining member  224  of the illustrated embodiment is provided with set screws  234  that press against the segment of mesh  14  that is received inside the channel  226 , thereby preventing sliding of the mesh  14  in the channel  226  of the receiving member  222 . This retention of the mesh  14  is attained with minimal damage to the mesh  14  so that the pole assembly  220  can be relocated along the mesh  14 .  
      The above described pole assemblies can be secured to segments of mesh so as to provide a fence. The pole assemblies can then be secured to a surface, such as a deck surface, in any appropriate manner to thereby provide a barrier. As noted, the pole assemblies may be inserted into holes directly. Alternatively, the pole assemblies may be further secured to an anchor device which facilitates securing of the pole assemblies to the surface. Various anchor devices are discussed in detail herein below for securing pole assembly to a surface. However, it should be understood that the anchor devices may be used in conjunction with conventional fence poles and that the present invention is not limited to use in conjunction with pole assemblies.  
       FIG. 23  shows a perspective view of an anchor device  240  in accordance with another aspect of the present invention. The anchor device  240  may be used to secure a fence pole such as the pole assemblies discussed above to a surface such as a deck surface. In this regard, the anchor device  240  includes an extension member  244  and a pin  242  that is sized to be received in a corresponding hole in the ground surface. As can be seen, the illustrated embodiment of the anchor device  240  is implemented such that the extension member  244  is shaped to be received in a hollow center of a fence pole. In this regard,  FIG. 24  shows how the anchor device  240  may be used to secure a pole assembly  250  which is implemented with a receiving member having a cross-sectional shape as shown in  FIGS. 13A and 13B . Because of the shape of the webbing in the receiving member  252 , the extension member  244  of the anchor device  240  is correspondingly shaped so as to be received in the hollow portion of the receiving member. One or more set screws may optionally be provided which pass through the receiving member  252 , and engage the extension member  244  to thereby secure the anchor device  240  and the pole assembly  250  together.  
       FIG. 25  shows an anchor device  260  in accordance with yet another implementation that may be used to secure a fence pole to a surface. In this regard,  FIG. 26  shows the anchor device  260  being used to secure fence pole  276  to the ground surface GS. In referring to these figures together, the anchor device  260  includes an expansion fastener  264  that is adapted to be received in a hole H provided in the ground surface GS. It should be initially noted that ground surface GS as used here can be any surface such as a deck, a patio, etc.  
      The anchor device  260  also includes an extension member  262  that is connected to the expansion fastener  264  by a threaded shaft  270  which is shown schematically by the dashed lines. As most clearly shown in  FIG. 25 , the expansion fastener  264  includes a plurality of gripping wings  266 , and an axially displaceable nut  268  that contracts the plurality of gripping wings  266 . As shown in  FIG. 25 , the plurality of gripping wings  266  and the nut  268  have tapered surfaces. When the extension member  262  is rotated, the nut  268  is displaced upwardly in  FIG. 25 , thereby causing radial expansion of the plurality of gripping wings  266  to lodge the anchoring device  260  in the hole H as shown in  FIG. 26 . The outward radial expansion of the plurality of gripping wings  266  insures that the extension member  262  can be used to secure the fence pole  276 , for example, using a plurality of set screws  278  in the embodiment shown in  FIG. 26 . Of course, a different number of set screws or other mechanisms for securing the fence pole  276  to the extension member  262  may be provided in other implementations of the present invention.  
       FIG. 27  shows a partial cross-sectional view of an anchor device  280  in accordance with another implementation that secures the fence pole  298  to the deck surface DS. As shown, the anchor device  280  includes a tube carrier  282  that is sized to receive an end of the fence pole  298  therein. The anchor device  280  also includes an angled wedge  286  that secures the fence pole  298  in the tube carrier  282 . In this regard, fastener  284  is provided in the anchor device  280 , which upon tightening, causes the angle wedge  286  to engage the outer peripheral surface of the fence pole  298 , and secure the fence pole  298  in the tube carrier member  282 .  
      The anchor device  280  may be slidably mounted in a guide channel  288  so as to allow adjustment to the position of the anchor device  280 , and correspondingly, the fence pole  298 . As shown in  FIG. 27 , the guide channel member  288  may be directly integrated into the deck surface DS, for example, by installing the guide channel member  288  when the concrete of the deck surface DS is still uncured.  
       FIGS. 28A and 28B  show the frontal and top views, respectively, of the guide channel member  288  illustrated in  FIG. 27 . As shown most clearly in  FIG. 28A , the guide channel member  288  includes anchor support  292  that allows surface materials such as the concrete of the deck surface DS to fill around in the manner shown in  FIG. 27  such that the guide channel member  288  is firmly attached to support the anchor device  280  and the fence pole  298 .  FIG. 28B  shows that the guide channel member  288  has an elongated shape so as to allow the tube carrier  282  to be moved thereby allowing its position to be adjusted.  
       FIGS. 29A  to  29 C show various views of an anchor device  300  in accordance with another implementation for securing a fence pole to a surface that is vertical such as a deck edge surface DES. As shown in the frontal view of  FIG. 29A , the anchor device  300  includes a tube carrier  302  sized to receive an end of a fence pole therein. The tube carrier  302  is slidably mounted to a guide channel member  306  which allows the tube carrier  302  to be slid to alternative positions thereon. The tube carrier  302  is secured to the guide channel member  306  by fastener  308 . As most clearly shown in the cross-sectional view of  FIG. 29C , the fastener  308  passes through a slide washer  310  to engage the lock nut  312  inside the guide channel member  306 . Correspondingly, when the fastener  308  is tightened, the slide washer  310  and the lock nut  312  clamp against the guide channel member  306  to thereby secure the tube carrier  302  to the guide channel member  306 . Loosening the fastener  308  allows the tube carrier  302  to be moved along the guide channel member  306 .  
      In addition, as shown in  FIGS. 29A and 29C , the illustrated embodiment of the anchor device  300  further allows the tube carrier  302  to be rotated to as to allow angling of the fence pole received in the tube carrier  302 . This is attained by loosening the fastener  308 , and adjusting the angle of the tube carrier  302 , and retightening the fastener  308  so that the position of the tube carrier  302  is affixed. Of course,  FIG. 29A  to  29 C merely show one example of how the anchor device may be implemented to allow rotation of the tube carrier, and the angling of the fence pole, and the present has not limited thereto.  
       FIGS. 30A and 30B  show top and cross-sectional views of an anchor device  330  in accordance with still another embodiment of the present invention,  FIG. 30A  illustrating the anchor device with the tube carrier  342  removed for clarity purposes. As shown in these figures, the anchor device  330  includes a plurality of eye bolts  332  that are sized to receive the tube carrier  342  in the manner shown in  FIG. 30B . The eye bolts  332  are connected to tie rods  334  which are correspondingly mounted to guide channel member  346 . In this regard, the tie rods  334  extend through the slide washers  336  and engage the lock nuts  338  that are received in the guide channel members  346  to correspondingly secure the eye bolts  332  to the guide channel member  346 . In the manner previously described relative to the embodiment shown in FIGS.  29 A to  29 C, the guide channel member  346  allows the positioning of the tube carrier  342  to be adjusted.  
      In addition, the illustrated embodiment of the anchoring device  330  further allows adjustment to the angling of the tube carrier  342  relative to the deck edge surface DES. The adjustment to the angling of the tube carrier  342  may be attained by adjusting the relative lengths of the tie rods  334 . More specifically, by adjusting the lengths of the tie rods  334  to be different from one another, the tube carrier  342  can be angled toward, or away, from the deck edge surface DES, thereby correspondingly resulting in the angling of the fence pole received in the tube carrier  342 .  
       FIG. 31  shows a perspective view of a guide channel member  350  in accordance with another example implementation. In the illustrated embodiment, the guide channel member  350  is provided with two distinct channels  352  and  354 , the two channels being at least partially defined by a T-member  356 . The illustrated implementation of the guide channel member  350  allows easier installation of the guide channel member to a surface, such as a deck edge surface, in those implementations where parallel channels are desirable, for example, the anchor device discussed above relative to  FIGS. 30A and 30B . The guide channel member  350  shown in  FIG. 31  is further provided with a plurality of mounting holes  358  to allow guide channel member  350  to be mounted using appropriate fasteners.  
       FIG. 32  shows an end view of a guide channel  360  in accordance with another example implementation. The guide channel member  360  is implemented in a manner substantially similar to the guide channel member  350  of  FIG. 31  discussed above, except only a single channel is provided. As shown, fasteners  362  are utilized to secure the guide channel member  360  to the deck edge surface DES.  
       FIG. 33  shows an end view of a guide channel member  370  in accordance with yet another implementation. The guide channel member  370  is secured to the surface such as the deck edge surface DES shown using an adhesive  372 . The adhesive  372  may be any type of adhesive appropriate for the surface to which the guide channel member  370  is affixed.  
       FIG. 34  is a frontal view of a gate assembly  380  in accordance with one example implementation that may be used in conjunction with a mesh fence of the present invention. As shown, the gate assembly  380  includes a gate panel  381  having a frame  382  that provides rigid, peripheral structure to the mesh  384  supported within the frame  382 . The frame  382  is secured to a gate pole  388  via hinges  386  so as to allow the frame  382  to pivot about the gate pole  388  and allow an individual to pass through the gate assembly  380 . The gate pole  388  may be implemented with an anchor device  389  that can be installed and secured in a hole of a surface such as a deck surface, for example, in a manner previously described, so as to ensure proper securing of the gate assembly  380 .  
      A secondary gate pole  387  may be provided so that the gate assembly  380  may be latched closed using any appropriate latching mechanism (not shown). In this regard, the latching mechanism may be provided on the secondary gate pole  387  or on the frame  382  of the gate panel  381 . Of course, the gate assembly  380  may be latched closed to any appropriate object in any appropriate manner, and may even be latched to an adjacent pole assembly of a mesh fence. However, the illustrated implementation of the gate assembly  380  can be used to facilitate provision of a gate in an installation of a mesh fence. In particular, the mesh fence may be sized and installed so that two segments of the mesh fence end spaced from one another, to thereby provide an appropriately sized gap between the two segments. The gate assembly  380  can then be installed in the gap of the two segments to provide a gate for the mesh fence, the gate pole  388  and the secondary gate pole  387  being secured to the surface (such as a deck surface) in a similar manner to the poles of the mesh fence, or in any other appropriate manner.  
      To ensure proper securing of the gate assembly  380 , the gate pole  388  and the secondary gate pole  387  may be connected to the pole assemblies of the adjacent mesh fence segments. Such an attachment is desirable to prevent rotation of the gate pole  388  and/or the secondary gate pole  387  on which a gate latch may be provided. This is especially desirable if the gate assembly  380  is implemented with a spring or other biasing mechanism that causes the gate to close automatically. Such a spring or biasing mechanism would require the gate pole  388  to be firmly secured to the surface in order for the spring or biasing mechanism to exert the force required to close the gate panel  381 . In addition, if the gate pole  388  and the secondary gate pole  387  are connected to the pole assemblies of the adjacent mesh fence segments, the poles at the end of the mesh fence is further supported to resist the bending force that can be exerted by the taut mesh. FIGS.  35  to  42  show various implementations of how the gate pole and/or the adjacent pole of the gate assembly may be connected to adjacent pole assemblies.  
      In the above regard,  FIG. 35  shows an interconnecting mechanism  400  in accordance with one implementation that may be used to interconnect, and further secure, the gate pole  394  to an adjacent pole assembly  390 . The pole assembly  390  is secured to mesh  14 , the retaining member  393  securing an end edge segment of mesh  14  in the channel  391 . As shown, the pole assembly  390  defines an end or termination of one segment of mesh. The gate pole  394  is positioned adjacent to the pole assembly  390 , the gate pole  394  being provided with a slot  395  at the end edge thereof.  
      As most clearly shown in  FIG. 36 , the interconnecting mechanism  400  includes channel extensions  402  and  404 . The channel extensions  402  and  404  are appropriately sized to be received in the channel slots  395  of the gate pole  394 , and the channel  391  of the pole assembly  390 , respectively. Thus, the gate pole  394  and the pole assembly  390  are interconnected together so that rotation of the gate pole  394  is prevented. To ensure proper retention of the interconnecting mechanism  400 , corresponding top caps  392  and  396  may be installed at the ends of the pole  390  and the adjacent pole  394 , respectively.  
      As noted, alternative interconnecting mechanisms may be utilized. In this regard,  FIG. 37A  shows an alternative implementation of an interconnecting mechanism  414  which includes swing arm  420  that is pivotably mounted to the gate pole  410  by a fastener  422 . The swing arm  420  includes a slot  416  that is sized to engage fastener  424  that is secured to the fence pole  412 . The details of the slot  416  on the swing arm  414  is shown most clearly in the partial frontal view of  FIG. 37B .  
      The fasteners  422  and  424  used in conjunction with a swing arm may be implemented in any appropriate manner. In this regard,  FIG. 38  shows one example implementation of a interconnecting mechanism  430  where the swing arm  436  is pivotably secured to the gate pole  434  by a bolt and nut  435  combination that extend through the gate pole  434  to pivotably secure the swing arm  436 . The fastener  433  to which the slot of the swing arm  436  engages is implemented as a screw secured to the fence pole  432 .  
       FIG. 39  shows an interconnecting mechanism  440  substantially similar to that discussed above relative to  FIG. 38  in that the swing arm  446  is pivoted to engage fastener  443 . However, the fastener  445  that pivotably secures the swing arm  446  to the gate pole  444  is implemented as a screw instead of a bolt and nut combination noted.  FIG. 40  is noted for merely showing an alternative configuration for the slot  452  provided on the swing arm  454  which can be pivoted in the direction of arrow “P” about fastener  456  to allow engagement with fastener  458 .  
       FIG. 41  shows a perspective view of another interconnecting mechanism  460  in accordance another implementation,  FIG. 42  showing an end view for clarity. As most clearly shown in these figures, the interconnecting mechanism  460  includes a first arm  462 , and a second arm  464  that are pivotably mounted to the gate pole  466  via fastener  468 . The two arms are pivotably secured on opposite sides of the gate pole  466  so that they are spaced apart from each other. As most clearly shown in  FIG. 42 , the first arm  462  and the second arm  464  are spaced sufficiently to receive fence pole  470  therebetween. Consequently, the gate pole  466  is prevented from rotating about its longitudinal axis when in the gate assembly is implemented with a spring or other biasing mechanism.  
      As noted above, the mesh fence in accordance with the present invention may be implemented with a plurality of mesh segments, each segment having a plurality of fence poles that are secured to a ground surface such as a deck surface. In this regard, adjacent sections of mesh may be secured together so as to prevent removal of one section of the fence. Moreover, depending on the application, the mesh fence may also be secured to a wall surface.  
       FIG. 43  shows two adjacent segments of a mesh fence in which pole assemblies  474  and  476  are secured to the ground surface to thereby provide a barricade. A pole latch  480  is provided to secure the two pole assemblies  474  and  476  together. In this regard,  FIG. 44  shows an enlarged view of the pole latch  480  shown in  FIG. 43 . The illustrated implementation of the pole latch  480  includes a pivotable hook  482  that is secured to the pole assembly  498  via eye screw  484 . Another eye screw  486  is secured to the pole assembly  498 , or other desired surface, to which the pivotable hook  482  engages.  
      In the illustrated embodiment, a slide lock  488  is biased to the closed configuration shown in  FIG. 44  by biasing spring  490  such that the slide lock  488  must be actuated in order for the pole latch  480  to be used. In this regard, the slide lock  488  may be displaced toward the right in the illustrated implementation of  FIG. 44  and the end of the pivotable hook  482  passed through the eye screw  486 . The slide lock  488  can then be released thereby locking the sections of the mesh fence together. Moreover, the pivotable hook  480  may also be provided with a threaded tip  494  that is sized to be engaged by nut  492  so that the pole latch  480  cannot be unhooked without tools for removing the nut  492 . Of course, if the threaded tip  494  and the nut  492  is provided, the slide lock  488  and the biasing spring  490  need not be provided.  
       FIG. 45  merely shows the pole latch  480  discussed above relative to  FIGS. 43 and 44 , but being used to secure the pole assembly  498  to the wall surface WS. Correspondingly, the pole latch mechanisms may be utilized in any appropriate manner.  
       FIG. 46  illustrates a pole latch mechanism in accordance with yet another implementation. As shown, the pole latch  500  includes a U-bracket,  502  with threaded tips  508  and  510  that are sized to be received in eye screws  504  and  506 , respectively. Nuts  512  and  514  are then secured to the threaded tips  508  and  510  of the U-bracket  502 , respectively. The eye screw  504  may be secured to a pole assembly while the eye screw  506  may be secured to an adjacent pole or a wall surface. In this manner, a fence pole can be secured to an adjacent pole or a wall surface.  
       FIGS. 47 and 48  show front and top views of a pole latch  520  in accordance with still another implementation. The pole latch  520  includes an eye screw  522  secured to the fence pole  528 . A double eye bracket  524  is pivotably attached to the eye screw  522  such that eye  525  aligns with the eye screw  526  secured to the wall surface WS in the manner shown. With the eye  525  and the eye screw  526  aligned in the manner shown, a fastener such as the nut and bolt  530  combination shown in  FIG. 49 , or a pad lock  536  shown in  FIG. 50 , can be inserted therethrough and secured to secure the fence pole  528  to the wall surface WS.  
       FIGS. 51 and 52  show front and top views, respectively, of a pole latch  540  in accordance with still another implementation. As shown, the pole latch  540  includes an eye screw secured to a fence pole  549 , and an eye screw  548  secured to the wall surface WS. In addition, the pole latch  540  also includes a locking ring  542  that passes through the eye screws  546  and  548  as shown. The locking ring  542  includes a threaded section  545  that is engaged by the lock nut  544 , thereby securing the fence pole  549  to the wall surface WS.  
      It should be appreciated that the above described embodiments and implementations of the mesh fence, pole assemblies, anchor devices, interconnecting mechanisms, and pole latches, are merely provided as examples and the present invention should not be construed to be limited thereto. The described embodiments and implementations may be modified in other embodiments and implementations.  
      In view of the above, it should be evident that present invention provides a mesh fence that avoids the disadvantages of conventional mesh fences, and also provides various advantages over conventional mesh fences. It should now also be evident how the present invention provides a mesh fence that is economical to manufacture, and is also easy to assemble and set up. In addition, it should also be evident how the present invention provides a mesh fences that minimize damage to the mesh when the poles are attached to, and removed from, the mesh.  
      Furthermore, it should also be evident to one of ordinary skill in the art that the present invention also provides a novel method for assembling a mesh fence. The method includes providing a mesh having a first side and a second side, providing at least one pole assembly including a receiving member having a channel extending substantially therethrough, and a retaining member dimensioned to be at least partially received in the channel of the receiving member. The method also includes placing the receiving member on one side of the mesh, placing a segment of the mesh in the channel of the receiving member, and inserting at least a portion of the retaining member into the channel of the receiving member with the segment of the mesh retained between the retaining member and the receiving member.  
      In the various illustrated embodiments discussed above, the receiving member includes protrusions that at least partially define the channel, the protrusions being spaced apart to provide a gap. The retaining member may also include a shank and an enlarged portion, the shank being dimensioned to fit between the protrusions, and the enlarged portion being sized to be received in the channel with the segment of the mesh. Accordingly, the step of inserting at least a portion of the retaining member in the channel may include sliding the enlarged portion of the retaining member into the channel from one end of the receiving member. Alternatively, if deflecting hooks are provided on the retaining member, the step of inserting at least a portion of the retaining member in the channel may include pressing the portion of the retaining member into the channel through the gap.  
      While various embodiments in accordance with the present invention have been shown and described, it is understood that the invention is not limited thereto. The present invention may be changed, modified and further applied by those skilled in the art. For example, the receiving member and/or the retaining member, as well as the specific details of the engagement mechanism and/or the interlocking mechanism, may be readily changed or otherwise modified. Therefore, this invention is not limited to the detail shown and described previously, but also includes all such changes and modifications.