EP2212473A1

EP2212473A1 - Crowd barrier

Info

Publication number: EP2212473A1
Application number: EP08842693A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Colin Campbell West
Original assignee: Framelock Structures Pty Ltd
Current assignee: Framelock Structures Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2007-10-22
Filing date: 2008-10-22
Publication date: 2010-08-04
Also published as: AU2008316302A1; US20100301295A1; WO2009052556A1; EP2212473A4

Abstract

A portable barrier (11) comprising a base portion (13) and a barrier portion (15). The base portion (13) is adapted to rest on the ground and the barrier portion (15) is moveable relative to the base portion between a collapsed condition in which it locates against the base portion for compactness and an erected condition in which it extends upwardly from the base portion to perform a barrier function. A connection means (100) is provided for connecting adjacent barriers (11) together to form a barrier assembly (10). The connection means (100) is in the form of a pin connection system comprising spigots (101) on one side of the barrier (11) and corresponding sockets (103) on the other side of the barrier, the arrangement being that the spigots (101) of one barrier engage in the corresponding sockets (103) of an adjacent barrier thereby to provide a connection between the two barriers. The barrier portion (15) comprises a panel (33) supported within a peripheral frame (31), the peripheral frame having a recess (50) into which an adjacent edge portion of the panel (33) is received and concealed. Welding (typically spot welding) is used to secure the panel (33) within the surrounding peripheral frame (51).

Description

Crowd Barrier Field of the Invention

This invention relates to a portable barrier and also to a plurality of such portable barriers connected together to provide a barrier assembly.

The barrier assembly has been devised particularly, although not necessarily solely, for crowd control.

Background Art

The following discussion of the background art is intended to facilitate an understanding of the present invention only. The discussion is not an acknowledgement or admission that any of the material referred to is or was part of the common general knowledge as at the priority date of the application.

It is known to erect barriers for crowd control, particularly at sporting and concert events.

Typically, crowd control barriers comprise a plurality of modular barriers connected together. The modular barriers are of metal construction, comprising a base and a barrier portion upstanding from the base. The modular barriers are collapsible and of light-weight construction for storage and transportation in a compact condition, but nevertheless are sturdy when in operation to provide an effective barrier.

Because of the need for lightweight construction it is known to form the upstanding barrier portion using a peripheral frame with an infill barrier panel within the frame. Typically, the barrier panel comprises perforated sheeting. It is usual to secure the barrier panel at its edge to the peripheral frame by way of welding. While this is effective, it is not necessarily adequately safe and aesthetically pleasing, as the edge of the barrier panel is exposed, as is the welding. In particular, the exposed edge of the barrier panel can present surfaces which have the potential to injure persons handling the barrier members.

It is against this background, and the problems and difficulties associated therewith that the present invention has been developed. Summary of the Invention

According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a portable barrier comprising a base portion, a barrier portion mounted on the base portion for movement between an erected condition upstanding from the base portion and collapsed condition, connection means on at least one side of the portable barrier for releasably connecting the barrier to an adjacent barrier, the barrier portion comprising a panel supported within a peripheral frame, the peripheral frame having a recess into which an adjacent edge portion of the panel is received and concealed, and means for captively retaining the edge portion of the panel in the recess.

Typically, the panel comprises a perforation panel. However, the panel may take any other appropriate form, including a solid panel. The panel may present a surface which can carry india such as instructional or promotional material. Further the panel may be formed (either wholly or partially) of a transparent, translucent or opaque material

Preferably, the means for captively retaining the edge portion of the panel in the recess comprises welding between the panel and the peripheral frame. Preferably, the panel is rectangular and the peripheral frame comprises four frame elements arranged in a rectangular configuration, one corresponding to each side of the rectangular panel.

Preferably, each frame element has a longitudinal channel defining the recess for receiving the adjacent side edge of the panel.

The barrier portion may comprise one panel or a plurality of panels. By way of example, the barrier portion may comprise one or more upper panels and lower panels, with a common frame element therebetween, the common frame element forming part of a peripheral frame for the or each upper panel and also forming part of a peripheral frame for the or each lower panel.

The frame element at the upper end of the barrier portion may be configured to present an exposed surface which is profiled (such as by being rounded) for safety and aesthetic purposes.

Preferably, the barrier portion is hinged Iy connected to the base portion for movement between the erected and collapsed conditions.

Preferably, a strut structure is hingedly connected between the barrier portion and the base portion to provide bracing for the barrier portion when it is in the erected condition. Preferably, the strut structure is so disposed so as to be on the side of the barrier portion away from the crowd to be controlled.

Preferably, the strut structure comprises two struts.

Preferably, a step is provided between the two struts when the barrier portion is in the erected condition.

Preferably, the base portion defines a platform on the side of the barrier exposed to the crowd to be controlled. With this arrangement, members of the crowd can stand on the platform to increase the stability of the barrier when in operation. Preferably, the platform comprises grating.

Preferably, the base portion comprises a base frame adapted to rest on the ground, with the grating attached to the base frame.

The grating may comprise a plurality of planks. Typically, the ribbed planks comprise extruded metal sections welded at their ends to the base frame.

Preferably, the planks are profiled (such by provision of ribbing) to enhance grip and thereby reduce the likelihood of a person slipping while standing or walking on the platform.

Preferably, the planks are disposed in spaced apart relationship to define the grating, the spacings between the planks facilitating shedding of water from the platform.

Preferably, the outer edge of the platform (being the edge remote from the erected barrier portion) is configured to define a ramp surface. This is for the purpose of providing a relatively smooth transition between the upper surface of the platform and the adjacent ground surface, thereby reducing the likelihood of a member of the crowd tripping against the edge of the platform.

Preferably, the ramp surface is defined by an extruded member (such as an extruded metal section) configured for the purpose.

Preferably, the outer edge of the platform is defined by an element of the base frame. Means may be provided for releasably anchoring the base portion to the ground. The anchoring means may comprise anchoring pegs adapted to engage the base portion and be driven into the ground.

Preferably, the connection means comprises at least one pin joint connector. The pin joint connector may comprise a projecting pin defining a spigot on one side of the barrier and a socket on the other side of the barrier, the arrangement being that the socket of one barrier is adapted to receive to receive a corresponding spigot on an adjacent barrier.

Preferably, the barrier has at least two pin joint connectors. The two pin joint connectors comprises may two spigots on one side and two corresponding sockets on the other side, one spigot being on the base portion and the other spigot being on the barrier portion.

Preferably, the spigot on the base portion projects from the base frame element defining the ramp section of the platform.

Preferably the base frame element is configured at one end to receive the pin defining the spigot and configured at the other end as a corresponding socket. Typically, the base frame element is configured as an extruded hollow section.

The barrier portion may incorporate an access way. The access way may comprise a gate incorporated in the barrier portion and moveable between open and closed conditions. Preferably, the gate comprises a hinged gate.

For certain applications the barrier portion when in the erected condition extends to a height which can be overlooked by at least the majority of persons likely to be in the crowd to be controlled. In this arrangement, the barrier assembly effectively provides a low barrier fence.

In certain other applications, the barrier portion may extend to a height likely to exceed the typical height of persons likely to be in the crowd. In this arrangement, the barrier assembly effectively provides a high barrier fence.

The portable barrier may further comprise a side element comprising an elongate structure having a longitudinal inner side face and a longitudinal top face, the elongate structure being adapted to locate against an abutment defined by the base portion with the longitudinal inner side face contacting the abutment and the longitudinal top face providing an extension of a platform surface defined by the base portion, the outer side of the elongate structure opposed to the longitudinal inner side face being configured to provide a ramp surface.

The portable barrier may further comprise an extension comprising a lower extension portion adapted to locate on the upper end of the barrier portion and an upper extension portion adapted to extend upwardly of the lower extension portion to provide an extension barrier section as an extension of the barrier portion.

According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided a side element for a portable barrier according to the first aspect of the invention wherein the side element comprises an elongate structure having a longitudinal inner side face and a longitudinal top face, the elongate structure being adapted to locate against an abutment defined by the base portion with the longitudinal inner side face contacting the abutment and the longitudinal top face providing an extension of ae platform surface defined by the base portion, the outer side of the elongate structure opposed to the longitudinal inner side face being configured to provide a ramp surface.

According to a third aspect of the invention there is provided an extension for a portable barrier according to the first aspect of the invention wherein the extension comprises a lower extension portion adapted to locate on the upper end of the barrier portion and an upper extension portion adapted to extend upwardly of the lower extension portion to provide an extension barrier section as an extension of the barrier portion.

According to a fourth aspect of the invention there is provided a barrier assembly comprising a plurality of barriers according to a first aspect of the invention connected one to another. With this arrangement, the barrier assembly can form a continuous barrier fence inhibiting passage from one side of the barrier assembly to the other. One or more access ways may be incorporated in the barrier fence.

Brief Description of the Drawings The invention will be better understood by reference to the following description of several specific embodiments thereof as shown in the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a barrier according to the first embodiment, the barrier being viewed from the front side thereof which in use is exposed to a crowd to be controlled;

Figure 2 is a view similar to Figure 1 except that the barrier is viewed from the rear side thereof which is isolated from the crowd to be controlled;

Figure 3 is a side view of the barrier;

Figure 4 is a plan view of the barrier;

Figure 5 is a front elevational view of the barrier;

Figure 6 is a rear elevational view of the barrier;

Figure 7 is a perspective view of the barrier in a collapsed condition;

Figure 8 is a plan view of the barrier in the collapsed condition;

Figure 9 is a side elevational view of the barrier in the collapsed condition;

Figure 10 is a rear elevational view of the barrier in the collapsed condition;

Figure 11 is a perspective view of a barrier portion of the barrier;

Figure 12 is a rear elevational view of the barrier portion;

Figure 13 is a plan view of the barrier portion;

Figure 14 is a side elevational view of the barrier portion;

Figure 15 is an exploded view of the barrier portion, illustrating the various components thereof;

Figure 16 is perspective view of a mesh panel forming part of the barrier portion; Figure 17 is an elevational view of the barrier portion;

Figure 18 is a fragmentary view of the mesh panel, illustrating in particular the configuration of perforations in the panel;

Figure 19 is a perspective view of a top rail of the barrier portion;

Figure 20 is a side elevational view of the top rail;

Figure 21 is an end view of the top rail, illustrating in particular the cross-sectional profile thereof;

Figure 22 is a view similar to Figure 21 except that it is on an enlarged scale;

Figure 23 is an elevational view of a side frame element of the barrier portion;

Figure 24 is a plan view of the side frame element of Figure 23;

Figure 25 is an end view of the side frame element, illustrating in particular the cross-sectional profile thereof;

Figure 26 is a view similar to Figure 25, except that it is on a larger scale;

Figure 27 is an elevational view of a vertical intermediate frame element forming part of the barrier portion;

Figure 28 is an end view of the frame element as shown in Figure 27;

Figure 29 is a view similar to Figure 28, except that it is on a larger scale;

Figure 30 is a perspective view of a horizontal intermediate frame element forming part of the barrier portion;

Figure 31 is an elevational view of the horizontal frame element;

Figure 32 is an end view of the horizontal frame element;

Figure 33 is a perspective view of a connection pin forming part of the barrier portion; Figure 34 is a side view of the connection pin;

Figure 35 is an end view of the connection pin;

Figure 36 is a plan view of the connection pin;

Figure 37 is an exploded view of the base portion of the barrier, illustrating the various components thereof

Figure 38 is an end view of a frame element for the base portion which provides a ramp for the platform.

Figure 39 is a perspective view of a connection pin adapted to be fitted to the base portion;

Figure 40 is an end view of the pin;

Figure 41 is a plan view of the pin;

Figure 42 is a perspective view of a step incorporated in the barrier;

Figure 43 is an exploded perspective view of the step, illustrating the various components thereof;

Figure 44 is a perspective view of a barrier according to a second embodiment, viewed from the front side thereof;

Figure 45 is a perspective view of the barrier shown in Figure 44 viewed from the rear side thereof;

Figure 46 is a side view of the barrier;

Figure 47 is a front elevational view of the barrier;

Figure 48 is a rear elevational view of the barrier;

Figure 49 is a plan view of the barrier;

Figure 50 is a perspective view illustrating a barrier assembly involving barriers according to the first and second embodiments in combination; Figure 51 is a side view of the barrier assembly as shown in Figure 50;

Figure 52 is a front view of the barrier assembly;

Figure 53 is a detailed view of part of part of Figure 52 illustrating in particular the connection between barriers in the barrier assembly;

Figure 54 is a rear view of the barrier assembly;

Figure 55 is a detailed view of part of Figure 54 illustrating in particular the connection between the low and high barriers;

Figure 56 is a schematic view of a barrier assembly incorporating barriers according to the second embodiment fitted with barrier extensions, some barrier extension being shown extending at an angle to vertical and others being shown extending vertically; extending vertically;

Figure 57 is a schematic view of a single barrier according to the second embodiment fitted with a barrier extension shown inclined to the vertical;

Figure 58 is a further perspective view of the arrangement shown in Figure 57;

Figure 59 is a cross-sectional view of a top rail of a barrier for use with the barrier extension;

Figure 60 is a perspective view of the barrier extension;

Figure 61 is a further prespective view of the barrier extension from the other side;

Figure 62 is a view from one end of the barrier extension;

Figure 63 is a view from the other end of the barrier extension;

Figure 64 is a perspective view of two side elements for use with a barrier according to either of the first or second embodiments;

Figure 65 is a fragmentary perspective view of the two side elements in position ready for installation on a barrier; and Figure 66 is a fragmentary perspective view of the two side elements installed in position on the barrier.

Figure 67 is a perspective view of one of the side elements; and

Figure 68 is a perspective view of the other one of the side elements.

Best Mode(s) for Carrying Out the Invention

The embodiments shown in the drawings are each directed to a barrier assembly 10 comprising a plurality of modular barriers 11 connected together. Each barrier 11 is of light weight construction and collapsible into a compact condition for portability.

Referring to Figures 1 to 43, the barrier 11 of the first embodiment comprises a base portion 13 and a barrier portion 15. The base portion 13 is adapted to rest on the ground and the barrier portion 15 is moveable relative to the base portion between a collapsed condition in which it locates against the base portion for compactness (as illustrated in Figures 7 to 10) and an erected condition in which it extends upwardly from the base portion to perform a barrier function (as illustrated in Figures 1 to 6).

The barrier 11 has a front side 16 adapted to be so positioned as to be exposed to an area in which a crowd is to be accommodated and controlled, and a rear side 18 on the opposite to that area.

Bracing 17 is provided for supporting the barrier portion 15 in the erected condition. The bracing 17 is located on the rear side of the barrier portion 15. The bracing 17 comprises two struts 19 each pivotally connected at one end to the base portion 13 by hinge 21 and also pivotally connected at the other end to one end of the barrier portion 15 by hinge 23 (that end being the end of the barrier portion which is the upper end when the barrier portion is in the erected condition).

The barrier portion 15 abuts a stop 25 on the base portion 13 when in the erected condition. A locking means (not shown) is provided for releasably retaining the barrier portion 15 in the erected condition in abutment with the stop 25.

A cross member 27 is supported between the bracing 17 and the barrier portion 15. The cross member 27 is pivotally connected between the bracing 17 and the barrier portion 15 so as to be collapsible as the barrier portion 15 moves from the erected condition to the collapsed condition.

The cross member 27 presents a broad surface 29 which is uppermost when the barrier portion 15 is in the erected condition, thereby providing a support surface on which crowd control personnel can stand or sit as necessary while the crowd control barrier is in use during an event.

The barrier portion 15 comprises a frame structure 31 and a plurality of barrier panels 33 supported within the frame structure. In the arrangement shown, there are four barrier panels, comprising two upper barrier panels 33a in side-by-side relation and two lower barrier panels 33b also in side-by-side relation. Each barrier panel 33 comprises a perforated sheet, typically a perforated aluminium sheet as shown in Figures 16, 17 and 18.

Each barrier panel 33 is of rectangular construction, having an upper edge 35, a lower edge 37, and two side edges 39.

The frame structure 31 comprises an upper frame member 41 which provides a top rail 42, a lower frame member 43, and two side frame members 45. Further, the frame structure 31 comprises two intermediate frame members 47, one intermediate frame member 48 being disposed vertically when the barrier portion

15 is in the upright condition and the other intermediate frame member 49 being disposed horizontally when the barrier portion 15 is in the erected condition. With this arrangement, the frame structure 31 defines a peripheral frame 51 about each screen member 33. By way of example, peripheral frame 51 around each screen panel 33a comprises a portion of the upper frame member 41 at its upper end, a portion of the horizontal intermediate frame member 49 at its lower end, a portion of side frame member 45 adjacent one side and a portion of the vertical intermediate frame member 47 adjacent the other side.

In the arrangement shown, the horizontal intermediate frame member 49 comprises two sections 49a, 49b. The sections 49a, 49b are disposed on opposed sides of the vertical intermediate frame member 48.

The various frame members incorporate recesses 50 into which the adjacent edges of the barrier panel are received and concealed. The various frame elements are configured specifically for this purpose. Specifically, the upper frame member 31 is provided with a longitudinal channel 53 which provides the respective recess 50 to receive the adjacent edges of the two upper barrier panels 33a. Similarly, the bottom frame member 43 is provided with a longitudinal channel 55 which provides the respective recess 50 to receive the adjacent edges of the two lower panels 33b. Each side frame member 45 is provided with a longitudinal channel 57 which provides the respective recess 50 to receive the side edges of the adjacent upper panel 33a and lower panel 33b. Further, the sides of the vertical intermediate frame member 48 are provided with two opposed recesses 58, 59 which provides the respective recesses 50 to receive the edges of the adjacent upper and lower barrier panels 33a, 33b. Finally, the upper and lower edges of the intermediate panel 49 are provided with channels 61 , 62 which provide the respective recesses 50 to receive the adjacent edges of the upper and lower barrier panels 33a, 33b.

With this arrangement, the edges of each barrier panel 33 is received and concealed within the recesses 50 in the frame structure 31. Welding (typically spot welding) is used to secure each panel 33 with respect to its surrounding peripheral frame 51.

The top rail 42 comprises an extruded metal section which presents a rounded profile on the upper side thereof for safety and aesthetic purposes.

The base portion 13 comprises a peripheral frame structure 80 of generally rectangular configuration, comprising a first end member 81 , a second end member 82, and two side members 83. The hinges 21 connecting the struts to the base portion 13 are mounted on the second end member 82, as best seen in Figure 37. As the barriers 11 are typically intended to be disposed one adjacent another in abutting relationship, each side member 83 provides an abutment 84

The base portion 13 incorporates a platform 85 located at the front side barrier portion 15 (that side being the side that corresponds to the crowd being controlled). In this way, members of the crowd can stand on the platform 85 and in so doing provide further stability to the barrier assembly 10. The platform 85 defines an upper platform surface 86.

The platform 85 comprises a grating 87 defined by a plurality of planks 89 extending between the two side members 83, 84. The planks 89 are in spaced apart relationship to define gaps 91 therebetween. The gaps 91 provide drainage spaces for shedding water from the platform 85.

In the arrangement shown, each plank 89 comprises an extruded metal section, the cross section of which is shown in Figure 37. The first end member 81 forms part of the platform 85 and defines a ramp surface 93 at the outermost edge thereof. The ramp surface 93 is inclined to provide a transition between the ground surface and the upper surface 86 of the platform which is slightly elevated above the ground.

The first end member 81 comprises an extruded metal section 82, the cross section of which is illustrated in Figure 38. The metal section 82 is of tubular construction defining a central passage 97 which is open at both ends.

Means (not shown) are provided for releasably anchoring the base portion 13 to the ground. The anchoring means may comprise anchoring pegs adapted to engage the base portion, the anchoring pegs being adapted to pass through anchoring holes in the peripheral frame structure 80 and be driven into the ground.

A connection means 100 is provided for connecting adjacent barriers 11 together to form the barrier assembly 10. The connection means 100 is in the form of a pin connection system comprising spigots 101 on one side of the barrier 11 and corresponding sockets 103 on the other side of the barrier, the arrangement being that the spigots 101 of one barrier engage in the corresponding sockets 103 of an adjacent barrier thereby to provide a connection between the two barriers. There is some tolerance in the fit between each spigot 101 and socket 103 to accommodate some unevenness in the ground surface on which the barriers 11 are assembled together.

In the arrangement illustrated, there are two spigots 101 and two corresponding sockets 103, one spigot 101a and its corresponding socket 103a are provided on the top rail 42 of the barrier portion 15 and the other spigot 101 b and the corresponding socket 103b are provided on the first end member 81 of the base portion 13.

The spigot 101a is defined by a pin 111 received in the adjacent open end of the top rail 42 of the barrier portion 15. The pin 111 has inner section 112 which is accommodated within the top rail 42 and an outer section 113 which projects from the top rail to define the spigot. The configuration of the pin 111 is illustrated in Figures 33 to 36. The pin 111 is retained in the end of the top rail 42 by a locking element 115 such a locking screw 117 inserted in the sidewall of the top rail 42 to lockingly engage the inner section 112 of the pin 111. The spigot 101b is defined by a pin 121 accommodated in the adjacent open end of the first end member 81 of the base portion 13. The pin 121 has inner section

122 which is accommodated within the first end member 81 and an outer section

123 which projects from the first end member to define the spigot 101b. The configuration of the pin 121 is illustrated in Figures 39 to 41. The pin 121 is retained in the end of the first end member 81 by a locking element 125 such a locking screw 127 inserted in the sidewall of the first end member 81 to threadingly engage in a threaded hole 129 formed in the inner section 122 of the pin 121.

The socket 101b is defined by the open end of the top rail 42, and the socket 103b is defined by th eopen end of the fierst end member 81.

The various metal sections used in construction of the barrier 11 are of Aluminium in this embodiment, but they of course can be of any other appropriate material (metal or otherwise).

The barrier 11 according to this embodiment is constructed of components that can be readily assembly together, typically by welding. The various frame members typically comprise extruded metal sections configured for the purpose, thereby providing a construction that is aesthetically pleasing. The pin connections 100 are simple yet highly effective in that they are constructed using pins that are received and retained within the ends of frame members forming part of the overall construction.

While not shown in the drawings, for certain applications the barrier portion 15 may incorporate an access way such as a hinged gate.

The barrier 11 according to the first embodiment when connected with similar such barriers provides the barrier assembly 10 extending to a height that can be overlooked by at least the majority of persons likely to be in the crowd to be controlled. In this arrangement, the barrier assembly effectively provides a low barrier fence.

There may be applications where a higher barrier assembly may be required. By way of example, there may be a requirement for a barrier assembly of a height likely to exceed the typical height of persons likely to be in the crowd. In such an arrangement, the barrier assembly would effectively provide a high barrier fence. Referring now to Figures 44 to 49 there is shown a barrier 11 according to a second embodiment of extended height in order to be incorporated in an assembly which can provide a high fence. The barrier 11 according to the second embodiment is similar in many respects to the first embodiment and corresponding reference numerals are used to identify corresponding parts.

In this second embodiment, the barrier portion 15 has an upper extension section 150, with the top rail 42 being located at the top of the extension section 150. A second intermediate horizontal rail 151 is provided at the bottom of the extension section.

The top rail 42 has spigot 101 as was the case with the first embodiment. The second intermediate rail has a spigot 153 and also a corresponding socket 155. The spigot 153 comprises a pin 157 and the socket 155 comprises a hole 159 in side frame member 45.

The barriers 11 according the first and second embodiments are configured to fit together, as shown in Figures 50 to 55. This provides a barrier assembly 10 incorporating two different heights as necessary at particular locations along the length of the barrier assembly.

There may be circumstances where it Is desirable to extend the height of the barrier assembly 10 even further. An extension 161 is provided for that purpose, as shown in Figures 56 to 63

The extension 161 comprises a lower extension portion 163 adapted to locate on the top rail 42 of the baσier 11, and an upper extension portion 165 adapted to extend upwardly of the lower extension portion 163 to provide an extension barrier section 167 as an extension of the barrier portion 15 provided by the barrier 11.

The lower extension portion 163 comprises a beam 171 formed as an extruded metal section. The underside of the beam 171 incorporates a longitudinal recess

173 of the cross-sectional profile corresponding to the rounded profile of the upper side of the top rail 42. In this way, the beam 171 can snugly locate on the top rail

42, as shown in the drawings. Because the top rail 42 has a rounded upper surface, and because the recess 173 in the beam 171 is of a corresponding profile, the beam can locate on the top rail 42 at various angular positions white maintaining snug engagement therewith.

^•The upper extension portion 165 comprises a frame structure 181 and a barrier panels 183 positioned within the frame structure. The frame structure 181 includes a top element 185. In this embodiment, the top element 185 is formed of a metal extrusion of the same as that used for the top rail 42.

A connection means is provided for connecting adjacent extensions 161 one to another. The connection means comprises a pin connection system 191 comprising a spigot 193 on one side of the frame structure 181 and a corresponding socket 195 on the other side of the frame structure, the arrangement being that the spigot 193 on one extension 161 can engage a corresponding socket 195 on an adjacent extension 161 , thereby to provide a connection between the two adjacent extensions. In the arrangement shown, the spigot 193 and socket 195 are associated with the top element 185.

The spigot 193 is defined by a pin 194 received in the adjacent open end of the top element 185. The The socket 195 is define dby the adjacent open end of the top element 181.

In the illustrated arrangement, the beam 171 can assume two angular positions, one corresponding to the upper extension portion 165 extending vertically (as shown at 197 in Figure 56 of the drawings), and an angular position inclined to the vertical (as shown at 199 in Figure 56, and also in Figures 57 and 58).

The beam 171 is adapted to be fastened to the top rail 42 to fix the extension 161 at the desired angular position with respect to the barrier 11. In the arrangement illustrated, the beam 171 is detachably secured to the top rail 42 by a bolting arrangement. For this purpose, the beam 171 has bolt holes (not shown) extending laterally therethrough at intervals along its length, and the top rail 42 is provided with a first set of bolt holes 201 at intervals along the length thereof and a second set of bolt holes 203 also at intervals along the length thereof. The bolt holes 201 in the first set are oriented for mounting the extension 161 in the vertical position and the bolt holes 203 in the second set are oriented for mounting the extension 161 in the position inclined to the vertical.

In Figure 59 of the drawings, the bolt holes 201 , 203 are depicted in the side wall of the tubular top rail 42.

The bolt holes 201 , 203 may be defined by bushes (not shown) incorporated in the top rail 42. In an arrangement, the bushes would extend laterally within the top rail 42 to provide lateral support and structural strength for accommodating loadings likely to be exerted on the top rail through the bolted connections. Because the top rail 42 incorporates the two sets of bolt holes 201 , 203, it is designed to accommodate the extension 161 in either of the two available angular positions (being vertical and inclined to the vertical in the arrangement illustrated), depending of the requirements at the time.

In circumstances where a barrier assembly 10 requires an increase in height, it is simply a matter of fitting an extension 161 to the upper edge of the barriers 11 within the barrier assembly. Depending on the circumstances involved, it may not be necessary to fit extensions 161 to all of the barriers in a barrier assembly, rather only to some of the barriers.

Where the barrier extension is inclined to the vertical, the inclination would typically be in the direction towards the area in which a crowd is being controlled, thus increasing the difficulty for persons within the crowd to scale the extended barrier.

While the extension described and illustrated is adapted for mounting in two available angular positions, it should be understood that the extension can be arranged to have only one available position, or alternatively a range of angular positions beyond two.

The barriers 11 are typically intended to be disposed one adjacent another, as illustrated in the previous embodiments, with the platforms 85 of adjacent barriers 11 in abutting relationship through their respective abutments 84.

The abutment 84 can, however, present a hazard in circumstances where they are exposed in the barrier assembly 10. One such situation may arise with the particular barrier 11 at the end of a line of barriers connected one to another to provide the barrier assembly 10. Another such situation may arise when there is a barrier at a corner intersection between two lines of barriers in a barrier assembly.

Referring now to Figures 64 to 68 there is shown a set side elements 210 adapted to be installed in relation to the barriers 11 to provide a ramp surface 213 at a side of a platform 85 which otherwise might be exposed; that is, to provide the ramp surface 213 in association with an exposed abutment 84. The set 210 comprises a first side element 211 and a second side element 212. In certain applications, the set of elements 210 would be used with a particular barrier. In other applications, only one of the side elements 211 , 212 would be used with a particular barrier.

Each side element 210 comprises an elongate structure 215 presenting an inner face 217, an upper face 219 and the ramp surface 213 extending outwardly from the upper surface. The arrangement is such that the inner face 217 is adapted to abut the abutment 84 at one side of the platform 85, with the upper face 219 providing a continuation of the platform surface 86 and ramp surface 213 extending downwardly therefrom to provide a transition between the ground surface and the platform upper surface 86 (which is slightly elevated above the ground).

In the arrangement shown, the elongate structure 215 comprises an elongate member 223 of rectangular cross section having an inner longitudinal side 225 defining the inner face 217, an outer longitudinal side 229, and an upper longitudinal side 231 defining the upper face 219. The elongate structure 215 further comprises a side member 233 extending from one end of the elongate member 223 and terminating inwardly of the other end thereof. The elongate structure 215 still further comprises first and second end member 235, 237 one at each end of the side member 233. First end member 235 is not only at one end of the side member 233 but is also at the corresponding end of the metal section

82 which forms the first end member 81 of the platform 85, as shown in the drawings.

The elongate member 223, side member 233 and two end member 235, 237 are fixed together (such as by welding) to provide an integrated structure.

The side member 233 and the two end member 235, 237 are each of the same cross sectional profile as the metal section 82 at the outer edge of the platform 85. With this arrangement, the end members 235, 237 each present a ramp face 239 extending downwardly from the upper face 219 of the elongated member 223, as shown in the drawings.

Location means 241 are provided for locating the side element 210 with respect to the platform 85. The location means 241 provides a mechanical interconnection between the platform and the side element.

In the arrangement illustrated, the interconnection is provided by a connection means 243 comprising a first pin connection 245. The first pin connection 245 comprises a spigot 247 on the side element 210 adapted to locate in a socket 249 provided within the platform 85. The socket 249 is provided in the corresponding end of the metal section 82. The spigot 247 is provided at the free end of the first end member 235 and comprises a pin 248 received within and projecting axially from the metal section 82 which forms the first end member 93.

The connection means 243 further comprises a second pin connection 251 between the platform 85 and the side element 210. As previously explained, the platform is provided with a pin connection system 100 for connecting adjacent barriers together to form the barrier assembly, the pin connection system comprising spigot 101b and socket 103b. In circumstances where there is no adjacent barrier, there would be a spigot 101b or a socket 103b available for use in connecting the side element 210 to the adjacent platform 51. The available spigot 101 b or socket 103b is utilises in establishing the interconnection between the side element 210 and the platform 85. Specifically, one side element 211 is provided with a further spigot 253 adapted to engage in the available socket 103b. The further spigot 253 comprises a pin 255 received within and projecting axially from the metal section which forms the first end member 235. Further, the other side element 212 is provided with a socket 257 adapted to receive the available spigot 101 b. The socket 257 is provided in the end of the metal section 82 which forms the first end member 235.

The side member 233 is of a length generally equal to the extent of the platform 85 in the direction away from the barrier portion 15, and the elongate member 223 is of a length generally equal to the length of each of the two side members 83 of the peripheral frame structure 80 of the base portion 13. Consequently, the elongate structure 215 has an extension portion 261 corresponding to the section of the elongate member 223 extending beyond the side member 233. When the side element 210 is installed in position, the extension portion 261 extends adjacent the base portion 15 of the barrier 11 on the other side of the barrier portion 15.

The extension portion 261 is provided with means for mechanically coupling the extension portion to the base portion 15. Such means may comprise a hole 263 extending laterally through the elongate member 223, the arrangement being that the hole 263 can register with a corresponding hole existing in the adjacent side member 83 of the base portion 15 to receive a bolt for coupling the extension portion 261 to the base portion. Additionally, the extension portion 261 has provision for anchoring to the ground. In this regard, the extension portion 261 incorporates an anchoring hole 265 through which an anchoring peg can be inserted to anchor the side element 210 with respect to the ground.

One or both of the side elements 210 are employed in circumstances where a particular barrier 11 is installed in a manner which results in one of both of the abutments 84 at the sides of the platform being exposed and thus likely to present a hazard. When installed, the side element 210 provides the ramp surface

213 adjacent the particular abutment, thus reducing the effect of the hazard. The location means 241 provides a stable interconnection between the side element 210 and the base portion 15, ensuring that the installed side element 210 does not in itself present a hazard.

It should be appreciated that the scope of the invention is not limited to the scope of the embodiments described.

Modifications and improvements can be made without departing from the scope of the invention.

Throughout the specification and claims, unless the context requires otherwise, the word "comprise" or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers.

Claims

The Claims Defining the Invention is as Follows:

1. A portable barrier comprising a base portion, a barrier portion mounted on the base portion for movement between an erected condition upstanding from the base portion and collapsed condition, connection means on at least one side of the portable barrier for releasably connecting the barrier to an adjacent barrier, the barrier portion comprising a panel supported within a peripheral frame, the peripheral frame having a recess into which an adjacent edge portion of the panel is received and concealed, and means for captively retaining the edge portion of the panel in the recess.

2. A portable barrier according to claim 1 wherein the panel comprises a perforation panel.

3. A portable barrier according to claim 1 or 2 wherein the means for captively retaining the edge portion of the panel in the recess comprises welding between the panel and the peripheral frame.

4. A portable barrier according to claim 1 , 2 or 3 wherein the panel is rectangular and the peripheral frame comprises four frame elements arranged in a rectangular configuration, one corresponding to each side of the rectangular panel.

5. A portable barrier according to claim 4 wherein each frame element has a longitudinal channel defining the recess for receiving the adjacent side edge of the panel.

6. A portable barrier according to claim 1 , 2 or 3 wherein frame element at the upper end of the barrier portion is configured to present an exposed surface which is profiled (such as by being rounded) or each for safety and aesthetic purposes.

7. A portable barrier according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the barrier portion is hingedly connected to the base portion for movement between the erected and collapsed conditions and wherein there is provided a strut structure is hingedly connected between the barrier portion and the base portion to provide bracing for the barrier portion when it is in the erected condition, the strut structure being so disposed as to be on the side of the barrier portion away from the crowd to be controlled, and a cross-member supported on the strut structure to provide a step when the barrier is in the erected condition.

8. A portable barrier according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the base portion defines a platform on the side of the barrier exposed to the crowd to be controlled

9. A portable barrier according to claim 8 wherein the base portion comprises a base frame adapted to rest on the ground and grating attached to the base frame, the grating being configured to provide grip and to facilitate shedding of water from the platform.

10. A portable barrier according to claim 8 or 9 wherein the platform has an outer edge remote from the erected barrier portion configured to define a ramp surface.

11. A portable barrier according claim 10 wherein the ramp surface is defined by an extruded member configured for the purpose.

12. A portable barrier according to claim 10 or 11 wherein the outer edge of the platform is defined by an element of the base frame.

13. A portable barrier according to any one of the preceding claims further comprising means for releasably anchoring the base portion to the ground.

14. A portable barrier according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the connection means comprises a pin joint connector.

15.A portable barrier according to claim 14 wherein the pin joint connector comprises a projecting pin defining a spigot on one side of the barrier and a socket on the other side of the barrier, the arrangement being that the socket of one barrier is adapted to receive a corresponding spigot on an adjacent barrier.

16. A portable barrier according to claim 15 wherein the connection means comprises two pin joint connectors comprising two spigots on one side and two corresponding sockets on the other side, one spigot being on the base portion and the other spigot being on the barrier portion.

17.A portable barrier according to claim 16 wherein the spigot on the base portion projects from the base frame element defining the ramp section of the platform.

18. A portable barrier according to claim 17 wherein the base frame element is configured at one end to receive the pin defining the spigot and configured at the other end as a corresponding socket.

19.A portable barrier according to claim 18 wherein the base frame element comprises an extruded hollow section.

20. A portable barrier according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the barrier portion incorporates an access way.

21. A portable barrier according to any one of the preceding claims further comprising a side element comprising an elongate structure having a longitudinal inner side face and a longitudinal top face, the elongate structure being adapted to locate against an abutment defined by the base portion with the longitudinal inner side face contacting the abutment and the longitudinal top face providing an extension of ae platform surface defined by the base portion, the outer side of the elongate structure opposed to the longitudinal inner side face being configured to provide a ramp surface.

22.A portable barrier according to any one of the preceding claims further comprising an extension comprising a lower extension portion adapted to locate on the upper end of the barrier portion and an upper extension portion adapted to extend upwardly of the lower extension portion to provide an extension barrier section as an extension of the barrier portion.

23.A side element for a portable barrier according to any one of claims 1 to

20 wherein the side element comprises an elongate structure having a longitudinal inner side face and a longitudinal top face, the elongate structure being adapted to locate against an abutment defined by the base portion with the longitudinal inner side face contacting the abutment and the longitudinal top face providing an extension of ae platform surface defined by the base portion, the outer side of the elongate structure opposed to the longitudinal inner side face being configured to provide a ramp surface.

24.An extension for a portable barrier according to any one of claims 1 to 20 wherein the extension comprises a lower extension portion adapted to locate on the upper end of the barrier portion and an upper extension portion adapted to extend upwardly of the lower extension portion to provide an extension barrier section as an extension of the barrier portion.

25. A portable barrier substantially as herein described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

26.A barrier assembly comprising a plurality of barriers according to anyone of claims 1 to 22 connected one to another.

27.A battier assembly substantially as herein described with reference to the accompanying drawings.