Technical Field
[0001] The present ivention regards the protective barriers' technical field. In particular
it refers to the technical field of the sound-resistant and sound-absorbent barriers.
State of the Art
[0002] The different structure and material types commonly used for the realization of noise
barriers, allow to obtain different outcomes.
[0003] In particular there are, according to the material used, noise barriers typically
"sound-absorbent" and others typically "sound-resistant".
[0004] The "sound-absorbent" feature of a barrier represents the quantity or the percentage
of the sound absorbed from the barrier respect to the quantity of the sound reflected
toward the source. In this case the "sound-absorbent" is measured with a sound transmitter
and receiver placed on the same side of the barrier.
[0005] On the other hand the feature of "sound-absorbent" represents the amount of sound
that does not pass to the opposite part of the barrier respect to the sound transmitter.
In this case the sound transmitter and the receiver will be positioned in the two
parts that are opposite respect to the barrier.
[0006] It is clear how these two features are antithetic respect to each other, but it is
also evident how both of them are important to obtain an efficient noise barrier.
It is also clear how important is a coexistence of the two features.
[0007] Indeed, the sole sound-absorbent forces, for example in a street passed through by
cars, to put protections on both sides and for a long range. Indeed, a good sound-absorbent
barrier protects well what is found "behind" the protections, but on the other hand,
the sound "bounce back" on the same barrier from one side of the street to the other,
to then hit against build-up area in the distance.
[0008] On the other side the "sound-absorbent" as far as its efficiency, allows always the
passage of a certain measure of noise through the barrier, although the "bounce-back"
effect of the noise is highly contained.
[0009] To limit the streets or areas in general and protect them from the noise, are used
protections constituted by panel systems that are sustained by supporting elements.
The panels are put side by side to each other and supported by vertical structure
that remain on sight. Beyond the typical features of sound-absorption and sound-barrier
of the material used, these structures do no allow an efficient damping of the noise
since there are points of discontinuity caused by the vertical post at sight.
[0010] In
EP1172484 is, for example, described a particular sound barrier according to the features mentioned
above. In particular it is made by a supporting base 2 that supports the panel systems
10 which are inserted inside frames fitted to the supporting base 2.
[0011] However this particular structure is in such a way that does not allow a continuity
of the noise-control panel system. The noise-control structure does not result to
be homogeneous and provided with continuity, but is interrupted by the vertical supporting
and retaining elements. Naturally, this determinates a deep inefficiency of this sound-control
devices, since the interruption of structural continuity makes fall the sound-control
capacity in correspondent to the interruption of the panel system.
[0012] Moreover these particular panel systems are sound-absorbent but not much sound-barrier
(28/32 db). They are, indeed, generally constituted by metal, plastic, transparent
plastic or similar material, and thus hardly machinable and expensive. Therefore the
realization of eventual grooving or other engravings in order to rise the sound-absorption
of the panel, is impossible to make in loco and must be planned at the moment of the
planning. In this way eventual changes to the same panel are impossible and consequently
the modification of the entire sound-control structure is required. Moreover, the
eventual reinforcements to be inserted inside the sound-absorbent panel system, as
for example nets or bars, result to be very expensive.
[0013] There are sound-controlling barriers, made in concrete, which are very sound-resistant
(40 dB) but not much sound-absorbent, and with the flaw of being too heavy. This forces
to realize both a supporting structure in reinforced concrete and an apposite appropriate
fundament of opportune dimensions able to support them when installing in loco.
[0014] At last, these barriers are assembled entirely on the site rising considerably both
the installation's costs and timing.
[0015] With the aim to cut down the realization's costs of these sound-controlling devices,
it is often recur to use pre-existent structures on which are adjusted panels to accomplish
somehow the sound-absorbent function.
[0016] For example, in
WO2005/071166 is described a very simple panel able to absorb the noise, and which is integrated
to a pre-existent structure, as a guardrail of a street or a simple fence. However,
opposite to such a constructive simplicity, there are many limitation in the matter
of the functionality of this device.
[0017] The sound-controlling panel system shall be, indeed, joined to the pre-existent structure
in a firm and safe way, to be able to resist to the wind, weather conditions, and
also to shocks. This forces the same panel system to have a height limited and proportional
to the height of the pre-existent guardrail or fence that works as a support. We are
therefore forced to limit the dimensions independently from the real sound-controlling
necessities. This way, for example, the noises released from aloft sources will not
be efficiently screened.
[0018] Moreover, is anyway difficult, also in this case, to obtain both an excellent sound-absorption
and sound-isolation.
Disclosure of invention
[0019] It is therefore the aim of the present invention to supply a noise filtering barrier
that resolves all the above mentioned inconveniences.
[0020] In particular the aim of the present invention is to give a noise filtering barrier
that has both excellent sound-absorption and sound-isolation features.
[0021] Moreover the aim of the present invention is to give a sound-filtering barrier that
is light, allowing this way installations that do not require hefty and expensive
fundaments.
[0022] It is also the aim of the present invention to give a sound filtering barrier that
is economical and easily pre-assembly in plant, to then be installed in loco.
[0023] It is also the aim of the present invention to give a sound-filtering barrier that
is versatile and adjustable to any required applications.
[0024] These and other aims are obtained by the present sound filtering barrier, able to
delimitate a general area or a transition course, that comprises at least a panel
with a predetermined height, placed along said area or transition course, and supporting
elements, characterized by the fact that in correspondence to at least one side face
(2') of the panel (2) is obtained a slot (4') with a predetermined depth inside which
it is placed at least a vertical supporting post (4) firmly joined to the slot (4')
and such to define a module (1), for which said module (1) result to be movable for
an installation in loco.
[0025] In this manner it is obtained a modular structure that is easily movable and has
at least a supporting element intended to sustain the structure and placed inside
an apposite site derived laterally.
[0026] Moreover the module (1) is able to be joined to at least another module (1) placed
on its side in correspondence to the respective lateral faces (2') defining a barrier
(101) with a corresponding length, the respective lateral faces (2') of the panels
(2) constituting at least said two modules (1) placed side by side to each other result
to be adjacent covering up the at sight supporting elements.
[0027] This way the noise isolation quality of the barrier is optimised, since there are
no structural elements that interrupt the continuity of the panel system. Moreover
the eventual addition of modules allow to change the length of the barrier 101.
[0028] Moreover the vertical supporting post (4) firmly joined to the slot (4') of the panel
(2), is connected firmly to a second vertical supporting post rigidly joined inside
a second slot relatively to a second panel and defining a second module (1) place
side by side to said first module (1) in a way that said lateral sides of said panels
result to be in contact to each other along their entire length.
[0029] This last one represents one of the many possibilities of connection between the
modules.
[0030] According to the preferred configuration of the invention, in correspondence to each
of the two respective lateral faces (2') of the panel (2) is obtained a slot (4')
with a predetermined depth, inside which it is respectively placed a vertical supporting
post (4) firmly joined to the respective slot (4') in a manner to define a module
(1), said predetermined depth of said slot (4') is such that each respective vertical
supporting post (4) is totally contained inside of it, said module (1) can be rigidly
joined to a second module (1) placed side by side to said first module (1) in a way
that said lateral faces of the respective panels result to be in contact to each other
along their entire height realizing a continuous sound-controlling barrier (101)without
vertical post at sight.
[0031] According to the preferred configuration of the invention each module has, therefore,
two posts rigidly joined to it and totally hided inside the slots 4.
[0032] Advantageously each module (1) comprises a plurality of panels (2) overlapped to
each other in a way to change the overall height of each module (1).
[0033] According to a preferred solution each module (1) constituting said barrier (101)
is supplied with two vertical posts, which are immerse into a concrete casting 10
adjusted according to a groove-and-tongue joint and such to allow the approach of
the modules so that the respective lateral faces are in contact to each other for
their entire height.
[0034] This way, thanks to the groove-and-tongue joint realized in plant, each module 1
is ready for the installation in loco simply by placing it on the apposite curb. Thus,
result to be fast both the assembling of the barrier 101 in loco and its eventual
length variance in a future.
[0035] Therefore the panel (2) overlapped and firmly joined to the respective two vertical
supporting posts (4) inside the respective slots, determinates a modular type structure
that is independent and self-supporting.
[0036] Advantageously the panels (2) are made in autoclaved aerated concrete, also known
as "Porenbeton".
[0037] The advantages of this material are that it is light and not expensive, beyond the
fact that is easily machinable.
[0038] Advantageously it is possible to connect firmly a plurality of modules (1) to each
other in a way to change the gross length of said barrier (101).
[0039] Moreover each panel (2) constituting said module (1) comprises at least a hole (17'),
which passes through its entire height, within which are inserted appropriate compacting
means.
[0040] Advantageously all the panels (2) constituting a module (1)are supplied with two
holes (17') placed with a predetermined distance between them, each of the two is
coaxial to the correspondent two holes (17') of the panel (2) placed above and/or
down and in a way such to be able to insert compacting means through the entire height
of the module (1).
[0041] The compacting means comprise at least a tension rod (5), with its respective plate
in base contrast (12)inserted inside the hole (17') of the overlapped panels, and
drafting means.
[0042] The drafting means comprise, on the other hand, an upper plate 17 for a pre-tensioning
of half screwed bolts 18 such that the module 1 made by said pluralities of panels
(2) and by said two vertical posts (4)is pre-assemble at site and entirely transportable
for the laying.
[0043] This allows to easily compact each module, maintaining the panels that constitute
it, stable between them, and transport the whole for the laying.
[0044] As already mentioned the advantage of the Porenbeton is its workability. This makes
it possible to realize on each panel that define a module a plurality of vertical
holes (60) along their entire height.
[0045] Moreover there are a plurality of horizontal holes (50) with a predetermined depth
that is lower respect to the section of said panels (2) intersecting said vertical
holes (60) in a manner to create a variable number of helmhotz cavity resonators that
increase the sound-absorption of said module.
[0046] Advantageously the slot (4') has a height coinciding with at least a portion of said
height of said panel (2).
[0047] Alternatively the slot (4') has a height coinciding with said height of said panel
(2).
[0048] Moreover, at least one vertical supporting post relative to a module (1) connects
firmly to a second module (1) abreast to it, inserting inside the respective second
slot (4') of said second module a groove-and-tongue joint so that said respective
lateral faces of said panels constituting the module will result to be in contact
to each other along their entire height.
[0049] This connection requires then a backfilling 10 during the installation after the
positioning.
[0050] Moreover, alternatively, at least a slot of a module is bereft of its respective
supporting post (4) and such that the exceeding portion of the vertical supporting
post (4) of the first module (1) is incoming into said second lateral slot of said
second module in a way that the respective lateral faces of said module (1) result
to be in contact to each other along their entire height.
[0051] This represents an alternative solution respect the preferred one.
[0052] Thus the barrier (101) is made by two module (1) placed side by side and alternatively
provided with and bereft of the vertical posts (4).
[0053] Moreover the stable connection of said vertical supporting post (4) inside said slot
of the panel (2) is obtained by means of a plate (15) or similar, firmly joined respectively
to the slot and to the vertical supporting post by means of bolts, screws or similar.
[0054] The connection of the vertical supporting post of the panel to the second slot of
the second panel is made through connection means such as screws, bolts and similar.
[0055] The stable joint of the vertical supporting post of the panel to the second vertical
supporting post of the second panel is realized by means of metallic plates (25) or
similar fixed on the respective vertical supporting posts through screws, bolts and
similar.
[0056] Moreover the space volume defined by the slots (4') is further on filled up with
a concrete casting 10 once the module (1) is assembled, said fluid defines a groove-and-tongue
joint to facilitate the connection between a module and the other.
[0057] The solidifier fluid is concrete, cement or similar.
[0058] On the panels are obtained appropriate notches able to damp the sound intensity and
the design of the module.
Brief description of drawings
[0059] Further features and advantages of the present invention will be clearer with the
description of some of its pattern realization that follows, made to illustrate but
not limit, with reference to the annexed drawings, in which:
- Figure 1 shows a continuous sound-controlling barrier, in particular is visible how
the sound barrier is made of modular elements (1) that are prefabricated and placed
close to each other in adherence.
- Figure 2, shows in section and view a module constituted by the in plant assemblage
of its main elements.
- Figure 3 shows a particular configuration of the invention that improves the sound-controlling
features through refraction.
- Figure 4 shows in section the coupling groove-and-tongue profile of two overlapped
panels.
- Figure 5 and 6 show in detail the assemblage of the structural elements.
- Figure 7 shows the supporting structure of the barrier constituted by two vertical
supporting posts that statically support the entire system.
- Figures 8, 9, 10 and 20 show the lateral joining typologies between the panels and
thus between the modules.
- Figure 11 show another view of the barrier.
- Figure 12 and figure 13 show, according to another solution of the invention, a basic
module and an additional module of a composed barrier.
- figure 14 shows the joining point of the composed barrier with external flanges on
both sides.
- figure 15 shows the joining point of the composed barrier but with external flange
on only one side.
- figure 16 shows the joining point of the composed barrier but with a retraction flange.
- figure 17 shows the assemblage phase of a composed barrier with a retraction connection.
- figure 18 shows schematically a barrier module provided with drillings and notches
on its surface.
- figure 19 shows schematically a joint between two barrier modules where a panel is
not connected to posts.
Description of some chosen pattern realizations
[0060] With reference to figure 1, it is represented a barrier 101 according to the invention,
composed by the assemblage of modules 1 pre-assembled in plant and placed close to
each other in adherence with the groove-and-tongue joint. In this way it is obtained
a barrier with any lenght depending on the needs. The height of the barrier, and therefore
of each module 1, is obtained by overlapping each panel 2 constituting each module
1. Thus, the barrier has a variable expansion, both in length and in height, according
to the noise protection needs of the track and of the territory.
[0061] In particular the assemblage of the barrier happens on the installed vertical ledge,
adequately dimensioned depending on the geometric features of the barrier, of the
installation place and of the soil. The vertical ledge follows the altimetry of the
road route, so that the modules 1 of the barrier always lean on a horizontal place
compensating the variations of the elevation with height variance from each module.
[0062] The type of joint to the ground is anyway prior art and equivalent systems can be
easily used, without moving apart from the present inventive concept.
[0063] With reference to figure 2, is further on described the single module in its unit
and the single important component that constitute it. In particular it is described
the supporting structure of the module realized with two vertical posts 4 that support
statically the entire system under the wind, seismic, and weight action. The profiles
of the posts could be of any kind, as for example of HEA or similar.
[0064] Each single panel 2, overlapped to obtain the desired height of the module, is joined
to the two vertical posts 4. In particular, each panel in correspondence to its two
lateral faces 2', have a slot 4' within which it is inserted and placed the vertical
posts 4.
[0065] Joining means will be then used to firmly join the two vertical posts 4 inside the
respective slots 4'. In particular, as still shown in figure 2, it could be used L
shaped plates 15 screwed respectively on the post and on the upper surface of each
single panel.
[0066] Other joining systems could be anyway used without having to move apart from the
present inventive concept.
[0067] As still shown in figure 2, the slots 4' have such a depth to receive inside , according
to the preferred configuration of the invention, the entire vertical posts 4 which,
therefore, "vanish" inside of them.
[0068] In this way, as highlighted in figure 1, it is possible during the installation to
join to each other more modules 1 that have been pre-assembled in plant, so that there
are no visible supporting elements. Indeed, the modules placed side by side to each
other will match perfectly to each other along the lateral sites and will result in
contact along their respective heights. It is possible this way to change the length
of the structure 101 without having never supporting elements that interrupt the continuity
to the detriment of the sound-isolation and noise-absorption capacities of the same.
[0069] In particular, as highlighted in figure 8, 9, 10, and 20, the joint between two panels,
and therefore, consequently, also between a first and a second module that are adjacent
one close to the other, can happen according to other equivalent modes.
[0070] Referring to figure 8, for example, two male connector plates 25 are welded along
the head of the post 4 of one of the two modules to be joined, while in the other
post relative to the second module placed on the side is left a female slot in a way
to create a groove-and-tongue joint. After the laying of the modules, it is preferable
to make a finishing concrete casting 10 inside the sites 4'to make the structure more
firm and to avoid any kind of discontinued point (look also at figure 2).
[0071] Referring to figure 9 (preferred configuration), a sole connector plate 25 is welded
along the vertical axis of the post 4. As in the preceeding case, in the other module
it is left a female slot to create a groove-and-tongue joint. In this way, it is necessary
to make in plant the finishing concrete casting 10 to obtain the groove-and-tongue
joint sites. This solution is preferable in a curve laying situation of the barrier
as it follows better the profile. Moreover all the module that constitute the barrier
101 result to be ready for the installation or in loco with a groove-and-tongue joint
that helps the coupling. It is clear how, also in this case, it is efficient the approach
of the modules, which will perfectly match without leaving any visible supporting
post that interrup the continuity of the barrier.
[0072] With reference to figure 10 (preferred configuration for the straight routes) it
is realized a male/female pattern inside the formwork of the head made, still, through
the finishing concrete casting 10 realized in plant.
referring to figure 20 it is alternatively realized a male-female pattern inside the
formwork of the head still made through the connecting casting 10. Also this solution
is preferred in a curved laying situation as it follows better the profile.
[0073] For the realization of the casting 10 it can be used thin aerated concrete Rck 250
(sand and concrete), with fluidifying and antishrinkage additive.
[0074] Without moving apart from the present inventive concept, according to a second preferred
realization pattern of the invention, nothing would avoid to approach one to the other
the modules, alternatively constituted by panels 2 that have supporting elements 4
and panels 2 that don't, and therefore with their respective empty site 4' (look at
figure 19). In this manner it would be enough to use a supporting element 4 that has
a greater depth respect to the site 4' withing which it is inserted, and to make the
connection to the adjacent panel by simply using the exceeding part of the post that
will be inserted into the empty site 4' of the corresponding panel. The connection
can then be made in a traditional manner, with screws, bolts and similar or with the
finishing casting 10.
[0075] Each single panel 2 (look still at figure 2) is made in a sole homogeneous material
and in particular in autoclavable aerated concrete called "Porenbenton". This material
is typically sound-isolating and result to be lighter respect to the traditional concrete
used, reducing, consequently, the costs of the realization of the fondation.
[0076] Moreover, this material is not stiff, therefore it absorbs eventual striking energies
and has a very low specific weight that could correspond to 500 Kg/m
3 ro 600 Kg/m
3 or 700 Kg/m
3, depending on the request, and consequently it does not constitute any kind of danger
in case of breakdown of some pieces during an accident.
[0077] Other features that characterize this material are that it is a R=120' material,
that means it is a great fire barrier, and therefore a further safety source for the
buildings around the streets in case of accidents where are found cars on fire. Moreover,
it is a material that does not need any kind of maintainance, indeed it completely
inert, does not react, when in contact to corroding substances, oxidize or wear out.
At last, it is a material that can be easily worked, even with groovings, and therefore
give to the object a design, and also embellish it with graphics or graffiti on demand
of the customer.
[0078] Thanks to its typical workability, it is also possible to improve its sound-absorbing
qualities according to the needs, thanks to a specific drilling system made on the
panels 2 that constitute the module 1.
[0079] In particular, according to another preferred configuration of the invention (look
figure 18), it is possible to have a system of vertical holes 60 that go through the
entire height of the module and intersect the horizontal holes 50, realizing this
way a type of risonator of "Helmholtz". Both the axle base of the vertical holes 60
and the number of the horizontal holes 50 can be changend according to the sound-absoption
value we want to obtain.
[0080] In particular, it is possible to supply each module 1 with only the vertical holes
60 and only after, in base of the future needs, realizeon the barrier the horizontal
holes 50 in order to imrpove the sound-absorption features.
[0081] Being, moreover, the "Porenbeton" an easily machinable material, it is possible to
realize on each module some groovings 51 that increase the sound-absorption features
(look still at figure 18).
[0082] According to another preferred configuration of the invention and still thanks to
the workability features of the material, it is possible to insert as the last panel
of the sound barrier a noise reducer opportunately with a trapezoidal shape (loof
at figure 3). Preferably a trapezoidal panel 103 is used with the face inclined toward
the noise source, to improve the sound-barrier features, because of sound rays refraction.
[0083] Thus, as said, each single panel has two slots 4' in correspondence to its two lateral
faces 2' in a way to be able to insert and join the respective posts (look at figure
2 and 11). Therefore, in order to "stack" one on the other each single panel, and
obtain a module 1, it is realized a system of prestressed type through opportune compacting
means.
[0084] In particolar (look at figure 6) the compacting means comprise two stainless tie
bars that are threaded on the top 5 and have a plate in base contrast (12). The single
panels 2 are inserted singularly one on top of the other on the tie bars while the
plate 12 is in contrast. Opportune tie bars means will allow then the finishing of
the panel's packing. In particular some bolts 18 will be screwed to the top thread
of the two tie bar closing the panels through plate 17. In this way it is possible
to realize a prestress that makes the set of the panels compact in a manner to have
an enbloc and selfbearing module. For this aim each panel has two through holes 17'
within which are inserted the tie bars 5 for their entire length and pack the pile.
[0085] In order to help the bearing of a panel on another one maintaining the hold, the
upper and lower supporting base of the panel 2 can be worked according to the groove-and-tongue
profile. In figure 4 it is indeed indicated the particular toothed profile 104 and
105 that allows the coupling of the two panels one on top of the other. Further components
that can help the junction between the panels can be easily used, as for example mortar
or similar.
[0086] It is now described a possible assembly procedure in plant of the sole module 1.
[0087] It is distinguished (look at figure 5 and figure 2) a first realization phase of
a supporting base for the panels constituted by plates 11, 12, 13, and 14 that are
welded to each other. In particular are positioned two lateral plates 11 that are
joined respectively, for example through welding, to two metal plates 13 and afterwards
are welded on these plates 11 the respective vertical posts 4.
[0088] The post will therefore have the same height of the finished sound-resistant barrier
and will therefioe result to be joint to the plate 13 through plates 11.
[0089] Afterwards (look figure 6) the central plates 12, which have the two tie bars welded
on them, are joined both to the central plate 14, and to the lateral plates 11 through
the lateral plates 13. The plates are therefore joint to the respective plates through
welding obtaining so a supporting base structure ready to receive the pile of panels
2.
[0090] Alternatively to the use of the central plate 14, of the lateral plates 13 and of
the central plates 12, it is possible to join the lateral plates 11 with a U profile
or with a sole plate or with a HEA 160 profile.
[0091] To make the supporting structure more rigid it is alternatively possible to weld
also, both to the lateral plate 11 and to the post 4, two stiffening gusset plate
6, one internally and the other one externally (look at figure 7 and also figure 2).
These have a double function; the first one is to make the joint between the post
and the plate more stable, while the second one is to create some slots for the fitting
tie bars in the foundation 102, visible in figure 5.
[0092] When the supporting structure is assembled, it is possible to insert the panels 2,
but only after the two open lateral slots have been realized on them (look at figure
6 or figure 7). Only to illustrate but not limite the present invention, the slots
could have 190x190x62.5 mm dimensions. Moreover are realized also the two through
holes 17' that will receive the two tie bars 5.
[0093] In case we want to improve the sound-absorbing features of the module, there can
be, as already mentioned, realized on each single panel the through holes 60 and the
horizontal holes 50 intercepting the holes 60.
[0094] To help the insertion operation, inside the panels there are sling hooks for their
movement. The panels will then have to be inserted and piled up one on top of the
other and the first panel will rest directly on the plates of the structure's base.
[0095] The panels will then have to be lifted and piled up one on top of the other in a
manner to allow the holes 17' to be inserted inside the two tie bars 5, and clamp
the whole with the drafting means for the closure, as screws, bolts and plates.
[0096] Moreover, with reference to figure 7, in correspondence to the lower surface relative
to the lower panel, that is the one that comes in contact with the base of the supporting
structure, must be realized an ulterior process that consists in a grooving that allow
the embedding inside the panel of the stiffening gusset plates 6.
[0097] Afterwards it is possibile to insert one on top of the other the panels 2 inside
the supporting structure, make the finishing casting inside the slots 4', and the
tapping for the groove-and-tongue joints between the different modules. This way it
is obtained a module with a predetermined height and ready for the installation and
the laying in the chosen location. As already mentioned, to obtain the chosen length
of the barrier, it would be enough to make the connection between a modular element
and the following one as described in figure 8, 9, 10, and 20.
[0098] Moreover, all these solutions, hide the visible supporting elements, which result
to be contained inside their site. Therefore the modules will be in contact to each
other for their entire height and the concrete casting 10 will make the coupling more
efficient.
[0099] To help the connection of the panel of the barrier, placed one on top of the other,
the panels can further on be stuck by using mortar. In order, then, to facilitate
the overlap of a panel on another one, the panels 2 (look at figure 4) can be worked
in correspondence of their upper and lower surfaces according to toothed pattern 104
and 105.
[0100] Moreover to constrain each panel that constitutes the module with the vertical posts
4 placed inside the opened lateral sites 4', are used the plates 15 (look at figure
5), that are mechanically fitted to the vertical posts 4 through bolts and to the
panels through tubola nails for autoclaved aerated concrete.
[0101] Moreover, at the end of the assembly procedure, it is also possible to insert a finishing
casting, that can be aerated concrete or fluid rck concrete (sand and cement), in
the commisure between panel 2 and the tie bar 5 in correspondence to the hole 17'.
[0102] After the panels 2 have been inserted and before the eventual finishing casting solidifies,
it is necessary to clamp the vertical tie bars 5 through the two stop nuts 18 (look
at figure 2 and figure 6). In this way, through for example a dynamometrical plier,
it will be possible to clamp the panels to each other, packing this way the pile.
[0103] To finish the assembly of a countinuous monobloc sound-resistant barrier, it is then
necessary to insert also two closing plates 19 on top of the respective vertical posts
4, wich must be directly welded on them (look at figures 2 and 6). This way the structure
is closed and some eyebolts or hooks 20 are inserted on the tie bars 5, usefull for
the lifting and movement operations of the module.
[0104] To process the installation in loco, it will be enough to move on site the single
pre-assembled modules and join them in line one to each other as already described.
In this manner not even one supporting element will be visible, making the surface
completely homogeneous and prefectly suitable to accomplish the soundproof task.
[0105] Only to illustrate, and therefore to not limite the present invention, the panels
2 can be realized on project in different dimensions, with height that differs from
60 to 75 cm, length that differs from 50 to 600 cm, and depth from 24 to 50 cm, in
a way to make noise-barriers for any kind of profile with any kind of sweep and slope.
The elements, maintaning the same length and depth variations, can have a height tha
varies from 120 cm to 500/600 cm.
[0106] The panels, according to a second preferred configuration of the invention, can have,
similarly to what has been already described in figure 8, 9, 10, and 20, groove-and-tongue
joints in correspondence to the lateral faces 2' of each panel, in a way to eliminate
the points of discontinuity of the noise barrier and, in the same time, allow during
the assemply phase, an easy and fast alignment of the modules.
[0107] Thanks to the great workability of the material, it is possible both to insert some
transparent glazed parts, and to make some simple carving, for example longitudinal
continuous or discontinuous, along the modules.
[0108] For a continous noise barrier it is anyway possible to use panels that have the same
geometry of the ones in autoclavable aerated concrete but of another material as concrete,
lightened concrete, cement and fiber glaglass, or polymeric die with or without fibers
or similars without moving apart from the inventive concept.
[0109] Moreover it is possible to reinforce the stucture in "Porenbeton" with elements,
as electro-welded net, inserted inside of it.
[0110] The fact that the barrier has the supporting structure incorporated inside the same
panels ensures, moreover, a better aesthetic impact. This allows to install the barrier
not only in places with high traffic density, but also to screen the noise sources,
as industries located in urban units, allowing to build some decorative architectural
elements. Thus, by combining the aesthetic value of the product with the possibility
to install a barrier with a reduced height, allow to use it indifferently as a wall
enclosure too.
[0111] Therefore, by entering in detail in the preferred configuration, a monobloc barrier
is found, as represented in figure 2, that comprises a number of panels 2, reiforced
by double net in autoclaved aerated concrete, which can vary from a minimum of two
to a maximum of six depending on the desired height. The panels are overlapped one
on the other, through the groove-and-tongue profile of figure 4, and glued one on
the other, in a way to create a firm and continueos barrier without discontinuities
between the panels.
[0112] If the trapezoidal noise reducer is inserted, the last panel will be a trapezoidal
one reiforced by double net in autoclaved aerated concretem which will be assebled
in a way to have the surface raking toward the noise souce. This panel can have a
depth that varies from 35 cm in the lower part to 50 or 60 or 70 cm in the upper part.
[0113] The panels are supported by a supporting structure in heat galvanized stainless that
comprises two posts 4 and a supporting base to wich they are welded on. The posts
are dimensioned to resist to the wind, or to eventual earthquakes. Moreover to improve
the continuità of the panels, in site 4', realized to locate the vertical posts 4,
it is made a finishing concrete casting 10, with tapping to obtain the groove-and-tail
profile. This casting will optimize the coupling between the modules and, moreover,
it will allow to fill up the empty spaces between the structure and the panels, improving
further on the sound-absorbent feature of the barrier. Each module 1 is then placed
side by side to each other, with the joints described in figures 8, 9, 10, and 20,
obtaining this way the requested barrier.
[0114] Alternatively, to obtain variable heights with modules that comprise panels with
different heights and dimensions, it is possible to use buil-up barriers made by the
overlapping of two monobloc barriers that are then joined with a particular joint.
[0115] For example, referring to figure 12, it is shown a basic module of a built-up barrier
constituted by a monobloc element 203 with height that varies from 250 to 375 cm,
while in the upper part there will be a monobloc barrier 204 with height that can
vary from 125 to 375 cm depending on the final requested height. Also for a built-up
barrier it is possible to insert, in order to improve the sound-controlling features,
a trapezoidal panel raking towards the noise source and with a thickness that varies
from 35 cm in the lower part to 50 or 60 or 70 cm in the upper part.
[0116] The monobloc module with height from 250 cm to 375 cm inserted in the lower part
of the built-up barrier, is composed by a number of panels that varies from 4 to 6.
[0117] The upper part of the built-up continuous barrier can be made by two, three or four
panels reiforced with double net in autoclaved aerated concrete 2 height 62.5 cm,
overlapped on each other, through the groove-and-tongue profile and glued. If the
trapezoidal noise reducer 3 is inserted, the last panel will be a trapezoidal one
reiforced by double net in autoclaved aerated concretem which will be assebled in
a way to have the surface raking toward the noise souce.
[0118] Also in this case the assemblig phases are identical to the ones already described
for a monobloc barrier and the indicated dimensions of the panels are not resticting.
Any other dimension could be used without moving apart from the present inventive
concept.
[0119] For the overlapping of the two modules it is sufficient to place the monobloc module
with height 250 cm and assemble the other module on top of it, as shown in figure
14, joining the two module through batten plates. In particular, the structural joining
of the two submodules can happen in many ways through the coupling in correspondence
of the vertical posts 4.
[0120] With reference to figure 14, for example, the joining of the vertical posts 4 happens
through the joint, by means of screw nuts, bolts with other perforated plates 21 joined
to them.
[0121] With reference to figure 15, the fitting happens through screw nuts and bolts in
correspondence to the same contact plates 21 on which the vertical posts 4 are welded.
The difference respect to the preceding method is that in this case the bolts are
placed inside the profile of the section bar and the access to the flange happens
from an opening on the head of the panel.
[0122] With reference to figure 16 and in particular to figure 17, the coupling happens
through a bayonet system, for which on top of the module that creates the base of
the built-up barrier, an entire HEA 100 profile, which works as a support, is welded.
[0123] As mentioned before, the laying of the modules, independently from the adopted solutions,
happens on the vertical ledge previously realized, with horizontal extrados plane,
and with a minimum width that equals to the ones of the panels 2 placed above. The
whole will have to be dimensioned according to the location, soil typology and to
the height of the sound-barrier. In case of slope traits, the difference in height
shall be overcomed by realizing steps with appropriate length. The laying of the barrier
is dry and the modules 1 are mechanically fitted by means of tie bars drowned in the
foundation casting in correspondence to the vertical posts 4.
[0124] With this method each module 1 is directly fitted and is independent from the other
modules found on the vertical ledge, morover each module is statically independent
from the others, this allows that each module could be removed anytime without demolishing
the others.
[0125] The above description of a specific shape is able to show the invention from the
conceptive point of view, in a way that others, by using the art, can modify and/or
adapt in different applications this specific shape without any further research and
without going apart from the inventive concept, and, therefore, it is intended that
these adaptations and transformations will be considered as equivalent to this specific
realization. The means and materials to make the many described functions can be of
various nature without exiting the area of the invention. it is intended that the
expressions or the terminology used have a simple descriptive aim and therefore not
limiting.
1. Sound filtering barrier, able to delimitate a general area or a transition course,
that comprises at least a panel with a predetermined height, placed along said area
or transition course, and supporting elements, characterized by the fact that in correspondence to at least one side face (2') of said panel (2) is obtained at
least a site (4') with a predetermined depth inside which it is placed at least a
vertical supporting post (4) firmly joined to said site (4') and such to define a
module (1), for which said module (1) result to be movable for an installation in
loco.
2. Sound filtering barrier, according to claim 1, where said module (1) is able to be
joined to at least another module (1) placed on its side in correspondence to the
respective lateral faces (2') defining a barrier (101) with a corresponding length,
said respective lateral faces (2') of said panels (2) constituting at least said two
modules (1) placed side by side to each other result to be adjacent covering up the
at sight supporting elements.
3. Sound filtering barrier, according to claim 1 and 2, where said vertical supporting
post (4) firmly joined to the site (4') of the panel (2), is connected firmly to a
second vertical supporting post rigidly joined inside a second site relatively to
a second panel and defining said module (1) place side by side to said said first
module (1) in a way that said lateral sides of said panels result to be in contact
to each other along their entire length.
4. Sound filtering barrier, according to claim 1, 2 and 3, where in correspondence to
each of the two respective lateral faces (2') of said panel (2) is obtained a site
(4') with a predetermined depth, inside which it is respectively placed a vertical
supporting post (4) firmly joined to said respective site (4') in a manner to define
a module (1), said predetermined depth of said site (4') being such that each respective
vertical supporting post (4) is totally contained inside of it, said module (1) can
be rigidly joined to at least a second module (1) placed side by side to said first
module (1) in a way that said lateral faces of the respective panels result to be
in contact to each other along their entire height realizing a continuous sound-controlling
barrier (101) without visible vertical posts.
5. Sound filtering barrier, according to one or more of the previous claims, where each
module (1) comprises a plurality of panels (2) overlapped to each other in a way to
change the overall height of each module (1).
6. Sound filtering barrier, according to one or more of the previous claims, where each
module (1) constituting said barrier (101) is supplied with two vertical posts, which
are immerse into a concrete casting 10 adjusted according to a groove-and-tongue joint
and such to allow the approach of the modules so that the respective lateral faces
are in contact to each other for their entire height.
7. Sound filtering barrier, according to one or more of the previous claims, where said
panels (2) overlapped and firmly joined to the respective two vertical supporting
posts (4) inside the respective sites, determinates a modular type structure that
is independent and self-supporting.
8. Sound filtering barrier, according to one or more of the previous claims, where said
panels (2) are realized in autoclavable aerated concrete, known also as "Porenbenton".
9. Sound filtering barrier, according to one or more of the previous claims, where it
is possible to connect firmly a plurality of modules (1) to each other in a way to
change the gross length of said barrier (101).
10. Sound filtering barrier, according to one or more of the previous claims, where each
panel (2) constituting said module (1) comprises at least a hole (17'), which passes
through its entire height, within which are inserted appropriate compacting means.
11. Sound filtering barrier, according to claim 10, where all the panels (2) constituting
a module (1)are supplied with two holes (17') placed with a predetermined distance
between them, each of said two holes of each panel being coaxial to the correspondent
two holes (17') of the panel (2) placed above and/or down and in a way such to be
able to insert compacting means through the entire height of said module (1).
12. Sound filtering barrier, according to claim 10 and 11 , where said compacting means
comprise at least a tension rod (5), with its respective plate in base contrast (12)inserted
inside said at least one hole (17') of the overlapped panels, and drafting means.
13. Sound filtering barrier, according to claim 12, where said drafting means comprise,
an upper plate 17 for a pre-tensioning of half screwed bolts such that the module
(1) made by said pluralities of panels (2) and by said two vertical posts (4)is pre-assemble
at site and entirely transportable for the laying.
14. Sound filtering barrier, according to one or more of the previous claims, where on
said panels that define a module are realized a plurality of vertical holes (60) alonf
their entire height.
15. Sound filtering barrier, according to claim 14, where there are a plurality of horizontal
holes (50) with a predetermined depth that is lower respect to the section of said
panels (2) intersecting said vertical holes (60) in a manner to create a variable
number of "Helmhotz" cavity resonators that increase the sound-absorption of said
module.
16. Sound filtering barrier, according to claim 1, where said site (4') has a height that
coincides to at least a portion of said height of said panel (2).
17. Sound filtering barrier, according to claim 1, where said site (4') has a height that
coincides to said height of said panel (2).
18. Sound filtering barrier, according to one or more of the previous claims, where at
least one vertical supporting post relative to a module (1) connects firmly to a second
module (1) abreast to it, by being inserted inside the respective second slot (4')
of said second module a groove-and-tongue joint so that said respective lateral faces
of said panels constituting the module will result to be in contact to each other
along their entire height.
19. Sound filtering barrier, according to one or more of the previous claims, where at
least a slot of a module is bereft of its respective supporting post (4) and such
that the exceeding portion of the vertical supporting post (4) of the first module
(1) is incoming into said second lateral slot of said second module in a way that
the respective lateral faces of said module (1) result to be in contact to each other
along their entire height.
20. Sound filtering barrier, according to claim 17 ,where said barrier (101) is made by
two modules (1) placed side by side and alternatively provided with and bereft of
said vertical posts (4).
21. Sound filtering barrier, according to one or more of the previous claims, where said
stable connection of said vertical supporting post (4) inside said slot of the panel
(2) is obtained by means of a plate (15) or similar, firmly joined respectively to
the slot and to the vertical supporting post by means of bolts, screws or similar.
22. Sound filtering barrier, according to one or more of the previous claims, where said
connection of said supporting vertical post of said panel to said second site of said
second panel is realized through connection means as screws, bolts, and similars.
23. Sound filtering barrier, according to one or more of the previous claims, where said
stable joint of said vertical supporting post of the panel to said second vertical
supporting post of said second panel is realized by means of metallic plates (25)
or similar fixed on the respective vertical supporting posts through screws, bolts
and similar.
24. Sound filtering barrier, according to one or more of the previous claims, where the
space volume defined by said slots (4') is further on filled up with a concrete casting
10 once the module (1) is assembled, said fluid defines a groove-and-tongue joint
to facilitate the connection between a module and the other.
25. Sound filtering barrier, according to claim 24 and 6, where said solidifier fluid
is concrete, cement or similar.
26. Sound filtering barrier, according to one or more of the previous claims, where on
said panels are obtained appropriate notches able to damp the sound intensity and
the design of the module.