Device for detection of falling objects that distinguishes between the rocks retained or allowed to pass according to their size and impact energy.

Abstract

 Device for detection of falling objects that distinguishes between the rocks retained or allowed to pass according to their size and impact energy, particularly applicable for protection of land travel routes, communications routes or other infrastructures, in certain areas of these that may be affected by falling objects that can obstruct or damage them. It consists of a barrier (1) made up of mesh (2) attached to some posts (3) equipped with a number of connectors (30) that have outlets connected to an electrical cable (31), which has a closed circuit connection to a battery centre (35) and a transmitter and antenna or optic fibre cable power supply control centre (36). The connectors (31) are used for insertion of plugs (6) that, as a result of the limits (12) especially designed for this purpose, secure the mesh (2) while also closing the mentioned electrical circuit. The battery centre (35) generates the power required to maintain the system active, the transmitter and antenna or optic fibre cable power supply control centre (36) being connected to the system in such a way that, when the current cannot complete the circuit because one of the connectors (30) has been released, because there has been a failure in the battery centre (35), or any other reason, it sends an alarm signal to a control centre it is connected to.

Description

PURPOSE OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The invention, as stated in the heading of this descriptive report, refers to a device for detection of falling objects that distinguishes between the rocks that are retained or allowed to pass according to their size and impact energy. It provides several advantages and innovative technical features for the purpose it is intended for, as well as others that are inherent to its design and construction. These features, which are described in detailed below, represent a significant improvement in the state of the art.

[0002] More specifically, the purpose of the invention is primarily that of an innovative system that can be used to detect the falling of any type of object on a specific area. It is made up of a retaining wall equipped with a fusible device and an electrical device, and properly connected to a control centre. It is especially applicable for detection of falling rocks or other objects that can obstruct or damage travel routes for some types of land transport such as railways, highways or roads for transport of people and goods, or other infrastructures such as aqueducts, gas pipelines or electrical wiring that are used for transport of products, power or communication systems.

[0003] This new patent intends to include patent number P200900175 and additional patent number P200901603, which describes in detail a specific application of the system that is very effective, in a European patent.

FIELD OF APPLICATION OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The field of application for this invention is in the technical sector that controls and detects obstacles and damage to land communication routes and infrastructures.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] At present, as a reference for the state of the art, it should be pointed out that the applicant is not aware of the existence of any other device for detection of falling objects with technical, structural and design features that are similar to those of the device described here. Its main purpose is to contribute a rapid and effective system to the state of the art that can prevent any type of accident caused by obstruction or damage to the transport route, detecting it in time to provide the appropriate warning, while also enabling prompt action by the maintenance services in order to be able to restore the service as soon as possible.

[0006] The additional patent presents a specific detailed solution of the system with aspects that have been improved compared to the first patent. This European patent achieves an extremely effective device, but it does not rule out the existence of other solutions that are equally effective covered by the first more generic patent.

[0007] The specific solution described in the additional patent shows improvements in the details with regard to the fusibility of the connectors placed on the posts, which facilitate selection of the rocks retained or allowed to pass through the barrier depending on their size and impact energy. The construction and finishing details have also been improved.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The device for detection of falling objects proposed in this invention is designed to be a noteworthy novelty in its field of application since the objectives described above can be achieved as a result of its implementation. The specific features that allow this to occur are stated in the final claims included with this descriptive report.

[0009] Specifically, the proposed device described above consists of a barrier that is connected to a control centre.

[0010] This barrier is equipped with a closed circuit electrical system. It is placed so that it protects the travel route or infrastructure involved, opposite the area where there may be falling objects, so that interruption of the circuit caused by an object falling on the barrier triggers activation of an alarm in the control centre it is connected to.

[0011] For this purpose, the device comprises essentially the following elements:

• A mesh, sheet or fabric, which can be a metal mesh with single, double or triple torsion (e.g., steel, aluminium, copper), a mesh made of synthetic materials (e.g., polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, polypropylene), a fabric mesh (woven or non-woven) and/or any other type of mesh, which can also be substituted by a sheet made of the same materials described above. It will have a variable height, depending on the location and slope where it is placed, as well as the type of route or structure to be protected.
• Some posts, which can be open or closed, metal (e.g., steel, aluminium, copper), concrete and/or plastic (e.g., polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, polypropylene) profiles or tubes. The cables for the closed electrical circuit of the device described in the invention are placed inside the posts. These posts have several bore holes for insertion of the plugs that secure the mesh to the posts, using stops especially designed for this purpose, and close the electrical circuit when they are connected to the appropriate outlet.

[0012] The posts are preferably anchored to the ground by concrete foundations, where the post will be embedded in a bridle joint made intentionally in the concrete so that the post can be replaced immediately in the event of breakage.

[0013] In the specific solution patented, the posts are formed by UPN or U-shaped sheet profiles, with a variable height depending on the characteristics of the location where they are placed.

[0014] If the posts are open, they will be closed with a cover on the upper part and will have a sheet screwed into the open part. They will also be equipped with the elements required to prevent water from entering inside the posts.

• Cables. Galvanised steel cables will be used. Their function is to transmit the tension caused by the falling of objects on the mesh to the connectors, which are made of plugs and outlets. The cable is attached to the mesh. It passes through some U-shaped flat bars welded to the plug sheet, so it can be pulled on. If the impact energy of the object is greater than the minimum amount calculated, the plug will be released from the outlet where it is housed and the electrical circuit will be opened so that the system sends an alarm signal to the control centre.

[0015] The cables are placed horizontally, with a variable separation between them that depends on the total height of the posts. The cables finish at the beginning and end of each barrier section. They are attached to some T-sections cemented to the ground.

• Some connectors, which are made of plugs and outlets placed in the posts. The purpose of the plugs is to attach the mesh to the posts by using some special stops and close the electrical circuit, since they are connected to the outlets. The outlets are placed above the cable protected inside the posts. The plugs are connected to the sockets to close the electrical circuit. The plugs are also attached to the mesh by a fastening chain, so that they will not be lost and can be recovered easily when they are released.

[0016] In the specific solution patented, the connectors are formed by the plugs, outlets, switches, "end of stroke" devices and by the fusible threaded rods/screws or flanges. Their functions are: secure the mesh to the posts and keep the electrical circuit closed, or open the circuit if there are falling objects that surpass the minimum power threshold established when they hit the mesh.

[0017] Entering into detail on each of the components described above that make up the connectors for the specific solution patented, it should be pointed out that the plugs are formed by square or rectangular limit plates with a hollow metal "pin" welded on one of the sides.

[0018] This pin has a chamfer on the upper side of the far end to raise and maintain pressure on the switch for the "end of stroke" device when the plug is inserted into the outlet to close the electrical circuit.

[0019] The far end of the pin (i.e., the end opposite the limit plate) can lead to a closing cover, depending on the final solution chosen to make the system work.

[0020] The limit plates for the plugs have some U-shaped clamps welded on the side opposite that of the pin weld, which allows the cables to pass through them.

[0021] Bore holes will be made on the corners of the limit plates to allow passage of the cables used to attach them to the mesh and prevent them from being lost when the plugs are released from the outlets due to the force transmitted by the objects when they fall on the system.

[0022] The plugs will be placed in the holes on the posts and inserted into the outlets by fusible threaded rods/screws or flanges.

[0023] Depending on the option used, and always for the specific application patented, if fusible threaded rods or screws are used, the limit plates of the plugs can have a bore hole near the centre to allow passage of these fusible threaded rods or screws.

[0024] In addition, also depending on the option chosen in the specific solution patented, the end of the "pin" opposite the limit plate can have a closing cover.

[0025] If use of flanges is chosen, in the specific application patented, the limit plates on the plugs will not have a bore hole in the centre. The end of the pin opposite the limit plate will not have a closing cover. It will have a ring welded horizontally on both of its side edges. The flange will clasp this ring and the one located on the angle bar welded to the inside of the posts.

[0026] In the specific application patented, the outlets are formed by a metal plate strip that is welded to the inside of the posts in each of the holes made on the posts to allow passage of the plugs. It will be shaped like a "socket" that adapts to the pin of the plug.

[0027] The end of this strip that is opposite its weld to the post will not have a closing cover and will be supported by an angle bar that is welded horizontally to the two wings on this post.

[0028] In the specific application protected by the additional patent, a circular threaded bore hole will be made on the upper side of the strip. This will allow passage of the cylindrical switch for the "end of stroke" device and fasten it.

[0029] In order to ensure that the "end of stroke" device is completely attached, a nut can be welded on the circular bore hole on the strip, which allows to screw this device into the strip.

[0030] Finally, in the specific solution patented, the "end of stroke" connector is a device that is attached to the electrical circuit with a cylindrical switch located on one of its ends. It is placed vertically and screwed into the strip, which forms part of the outlet, so that the cylindrical switch is aligned with the circular hole made on the strip, and can pass through it if there is no resistance.

[0031] When the switch is pressed, since it is supported by the pin of the plug, the circuit will be closed and it will allow normal passage of current through it.

[0032] When the switch is not pressed, the circuit will open, preventing normal circulation of the current, so that the system will send an alarm signal to the control centre.

[0033] Therefore, regardless of whether there are other solutions that are just as effective protected by the first more generic patent, the operation of the system for the specific solution patented in the additional patent will be as follows:

[0034] When an object falls and hits the mesh, the mesh will become deformed and transmit tension to the cables.

[0035] The cable, which is deformed, will pull on the limit plates of the plugs.

[0036] If the force pulling on the plug cable is greater than the resistance of the fusible threaded rod/screw or flange, calculated previously based on the rocks it is designed to retain or allow passage of as a result of their size and impact energy, it will break and the plug will be released from the strip. As a result, the switch for the "end of stroke" device will go down through the hole made on the upper side of the strip.

[0037] When the switch for the "end of stroke" device goes down, the electrical circuit will remain open. As a result, the system will send an alarm signal to the control centre.

[0038] This system for detection of falling objects that distinguishes between the rocks retained or allowed to pass according to their size and impact energy is designed to allow formation of different lowering planes for the mesh/cable system depending on the size of the rock, the place where it hits and its falling energy, minimising the possibility of breakage of the system.

[0039] As a result of this behaviour, as well as the ease of replacement of the posts damaged by rocks hitting them, this system is very simple to maintain. Therefore, costs are significantly reduced.

• A circuit formed by a cable that is properly protected and has a closed circuit connection to a battery centre and a transmitter and antenna or optic fibre cable power supply control centre. The cable passes through the inside of the posts, where it is connected to several outlets for insertion of the plugs that secure the mesh, as described above. The return of the cable to the battery is properly protected and/or buried.
• The battery centre is appropriate for generating the power required to maintain the system active. Its specific features will depend on the needs of each particular case. The batteries can also be charged with a solar or photovoltaic plate in order to generate continuous electrical power, or any other system of power supply. They will be kept in a place that is appropriately protected from falling objects.
• And a transmitter and antenna or optic fibre cable power supply control centre, which are connected to the system so that, when the current cannot complete the circuit because a connector has been released, there has been a battery failure, or for any other reason, it sends an alarm signal to the control centre. It will also be placed in an appropriate location of the barrier that is protected from falling objects.

[0040] As a result, when an object falls and hits the mesh attached to the posts by the plugs, if it is large enough and has sufficient force to release one of the plugs from the outlets and break the fusible component, the electrical circuit will be interrupted and the antenna will send an alarm signal to the control centre.

[0041] If the fallen object that hits the mesh does not have sufficient force to release one of the plugs and break the fusible component, the alarm will not be triggered in spite of the blow to the mesh, because the mesh will have stopped it. Therefore, it will not be a danger to the roadway, travel route or structure protected.

[0042] If the object hits the post and has sufficient force to break it or deform it, one of the plugs will be released due to the breakage of the fusible component and the alarm signal will be sent. If the object that hits the post does not break or deform it, the plugs will not be released, since the fusible component will not have been broken. Therefore, the signal will not be sent.

[0043] The proposed system has been shown to have significant advantages compared to the systems used at present, since maintenance is very inexpensive and it is easy to replace immediately after it has operated.

[0044] The device described for detection of falling objects that distinguishes between the rocks retained or allowed to pass according to their size and impact energy represents an innovative structure with structural and construction features that have not been used previously for this purpose. For these reasons, as well as its high level of practical utility, there is sufficient basis to be granted the exclusive privilege requested.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0045] To supplement the description provided and aid in better understanding the features of the invention, a set of diagrams that provide an example, without any limitation, have been included with this descriptive report and form an integral part hereof. These diagrams represent the following:

Figures of patent number P200900175

[0046] Generic Figure 1: diagram of the front view of the barrier that makes up the device considered in this invention, which shows the main parts and components it is equipped with, as well as their design and layout.

[0047] Generic Figure 2: vertical cross section of one of the posts the mesh of the device is attached to. It shows the method used to attach it to the ground since these posts also support the barrier.

[0048] Generic Figure 3: an enlarged view of detail A marked in Figure 2, which shows the design of the connectors for the electrical circuit the device is equipped with.

[0049] Figures of additional patent number P200901603

[0050] Figures 4 and 5 of the additional patent: both sections, horizontal and vertical respectively, of the barrier that makes up the device for detection of falling objects considered in this invention. They show a general view of the improvements included in this specific solution compared to the main patent. Figure 1 now includes an enlarged detail of the posts.

[0051] Figure 6 of the additional patent: perspective view of an example of construction of a plug using the variant with connection to the outlet with fusible threaded rods or screws, with a bore hole in the limit plate and without a cover for the pin.

[0052] Figure 7 of the additional patent: perspective view of the plug illustrated in the previous figure, after it has been connected to the outlet.

[0053] Figures 8 and 9 of the additional patent: perspective view of another variant of the plug and view of the plug connected to the outlet, respectively. The latter refers to a device with fusible threaded rod or screws but without a bore hole in the limit plate and with a cover on the end of the pin.

[0054] Figures 10 and 11 of the additional patent: perspective view of another variant of the plug and connection to the outlet, in this case, connected by a flange.

PREFERENTIAL CONSTRUCTION OF THE INVENTION

[0055] Based on the numbering used, the figures described above provide examples of preferential construction of the invention, which includes the parts and components indicated and described in detail below.

1. Barrier

2. Mesh

3. Posts

4. Outlets

5. Cables

6. Plugs

7. Upper cover of posts

8. U-shaped clamps for cable fastening

9. Plug limit plate

10. T-sections

11. "End of stroke" device

12. Plug pin

13. Chamfer

14. Switch

15. Pin closing cover

16. Bore holes to secure limit plate

17. Holes on posts

18. Outlet strip

19. Outlet angle bar

20. Switch screw aperture

21. Screws

22. Flanges

23. Central aperture of limit plate

24. Circular hole in angle bar sheet

25. Threaded hole in closing cover

26. Lower recess of pin

27. Window

28. Flange attachment rings

29. Front sheet of posts

30. Connectors

31. Closed circuit cable

32. Foundations

33. Bridle joint

34. Fastening chain

35. Battery centre

36. Transmitter and antenna or optic fibre power supply control centre

37. Solar or photovoltaic plate

[0056] Therefore, the device for detection of falling objects that distinguishes the rocks retained or allowed to pass according to their size and impact energy proposed by this invention, as indicated, is used primarily to protect certain areas of land travel routes, communications routes or other infrastructures that may be affected by falling objects that can obstruct or damage them. It is made up essentially of a barrier (1) that is placed in the appropriate position opposite this area. As a result of the components and devices it is equipped with, it can detect objects that fall on it by sending an alarm signal to a control centre it is connected to. For this purpose, this barrier (1), as shown in the figures described above, includes the following elements:

[0057] A mesh (2), which can be of any type, such as single, double or triple torsion metal (e.g., steel, aluminium, copper), made of synthetic materials (e.g., polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, polypropylene), or even fabrics (woven or non-woven), and can also consist of a sheet made of any of these materials.

[0058] The length and height of the mesh (2) will vary depending on the needs of each case. It will be attached to some posts (3), which can consist of open or closed profiles or tubes made of metal (e.g., steel, aluminium, copper), concrete and/or plastic material (e.g., polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, polypropylene).

[0059] These posts (3) will be equipped with a number of connectors (30) that close the electrical circuit. For this purpose, there are several bore holes (17) distributed lengthways on at least one of the sides. The holes (17) are suitable for inclusion of some outlets (4) that, properly connected to an electrical cable (31) that runs along the inside, are used for insertion of the plugs (6). The plugs have limits or pins (12) especially designed for this purpose that secure the mesh (2) while also closing the electrical circuit described above.

[0060] It should be pointed out that the posts (3) will be anchored to the ground, as shown in Figure 2, preferably by concrete foundations (32) in which the post (3) is embedded in a bridle joint (33) made intentionally in the concrete in order to facilitate rapid replacement of the post (3) in the event of breakage.

[0061] The plugs (6), as shown in the detail of Figure 3, are attached to the mesh (2) by a fastening chain (34), so they will not be lost and can be recovered easily when they are released.

[0062] The electrical circuit is formed by cables (31) that are properly protected and have a closed circuit connection to a battery centre (35) and a transmitter and antenna or optic fibre cable power supply control centre (36).

[0063] As described, the electrical cable (31) passes through the inside of the posts (3), where it is connected to the outlets (4) used for insertion of the plugs (6) that secure the mesh (2). The return of the electrical cable (31) to the battery centre (35) is adequately protected and/or buried.

[0064] This battery centre (35), which will be appropriately placed in a location that is protected from falling objects, can be used to generate the power required to maintain the system active, with the specific features that are required in each specific case. It can be charged by a solar or photovoltaic plate (37) for production of continuous electrical power, or any other power supply system.

[0065] Finally, the transmitter and antenna or optic fibre cable power supply control centre (36) described above, which is also located on the barrier (1) so that it can be protected from falling objects, is connected to the system in such a way that, when the current cannot complete the circuit because one of the connectors (30) has been released, there has been a failure in the battery centre (35), or for any other reason, it sends an alarm signal to the control centre it is connected to.

[0066] Figures 4 to 11, which refer to the additional patent, provide details on one of the possible effective applications of the system considered in this patent, without prejudice to the fact that there may be other solutions that are equally effective that would also be under the scope of the protection covered by the initial generic patent.

[0067] According to the numbering used, Figures 4 to 11 show that the device considered in the invention described in the main patent consists of a barrier (1) made up of a mesh (2) attached to posts (3) equipped with connectors formed by outlets (4), which are linked to a cable (5) connected to an electrical circuit, and are appropriate for insertion of the plugs (6) that secure the mesh (2) while also closing the electrical circuit described above.

[0068] The posts (3) in this application, which describes the additional patent, are made of UPN or U-shaped sheet profiles. Some holes are made in the posts. Then they are equipped with outlets (4) that can be used for insertion of the plugs (6) in working position.

[0069] The posts (3) are closed from above by an upper cover (7) and have a front sheet (29) screwed into the open part. They are equipped with the components required for watertightness, to prevent water from entering the inside.

[0070] The cables (5) made of galvanised steel transmit the tension produced by the objects falling on the mesh to the connectors, which are formed by the plugs (6) and outlets (4). They are interwoven with the mesh (2) and placed horizontally so that each of them passes through some U-shaped clamps (8) welded to the limit plate (9) of the plugs (6), so that they can pull on it.

[0071] The cables (5) finish at the beginning and end of each barrier section (1). They are attached to some T-sections (10) cemented to the ground on both sides of these barrier sections (1), as shown in Figures 1 and 2.

[0072] The connectors, as indicated above, are formed by plugs (6) and outlets (4). They are also equipped with "end of stroke" (11) devices. There are three different options for connection between the plugs (6) and the outlets (4). Two of these options use threaded rods or screws. There is also an option with a flange, as described below.

[0073] With regard to the plugs (6), it is noteworthy that they are formed by a square or rectangular limit plate (9) with bore holes on the corners for attachment (16) of the fasteners that secure them to the mesh (2). A hollow metal "pin" (12) is welded on one of the sides. On the other side, as described previously, there is a U-shaped flat bar (8) for passage of the cables (5).

[0074] This pin (12) has a chamfer (13) on the upper side of the far end to raise and maintain pressure on the switch (14) for the "end of stroke" device (11) when the plug (6) is inserted into the outlet (4) used to close the electrical circuit.

[0075] The far end of the pin (12) (i.e., the end opposite the limit plate(9)) can lead to a closing cover (15), depending on the type of connection chosen to make the system work.

[0076] The plugs (6) will be placed in the holes (17) on the posts (3), inserted into the outlets (4) and secured to them by fusible threaded rods or screws, as shown in Figures 7 and 9, or by flanges, as shown in Figure 11.

[0077] The outlets (4) are formed by a metal sheet strip (18) that is welded to the inside of the posts (3), in each of the holes (17) made in them to allow passage of the pin (12) of the plugs (6), as described above. The shape of the "socket" will be appropriate for this pin.

[0078] The opposite end of this strip (18) is open. It is supported by an angle bar (19) that is welded horizontally to the two wings of the post (3).

[0079] On the upper side of the strip (18) there is a circular threaded aperture (20) for passage and fastening of the cylindrical switch (14) of the "end of stroke" device (11).

[0080] Optionally, a nut can be welded on the aperture of the strip (18) described above, which allows the "end of stroke" device (11) to be screwed into it.

[0081] The options for connection between the plugs (6) and outlets (4), as described above, are twofold: use of a solution with fusible threaded rods or screws (21) (Figures 6 to 9) or a solution that uses flanges (22) (Figures 10 and 11). If fusible threaded rods or screws (21) are used, they can be made of any material, but preferably plastic or metal will be used. The invention also considers two possible options.

[0082] In one of these options, shown in Figures 6 and 7, the limit plates (9) of the plugs (6) have a central aperture (23) for passage of these threaded rods or screws (21). A circular hole is made (24) on the vertical sheet that forms part of the angle bar (19). The height and plane of the hole are aligned with this central aperture (23) on the limit plate (9) so that the fusible threaded rods or screws (21) with the resistance calculated will be inserted into both holes.

[0083] In this first option, the fusible threaded rods or screws (21) will be fastened to the system formed by the connectors using threaded nuts (made of plastic or metal). The nuts will be fastened on both ends of the threaded rods or on the end opposite the screw head, on the outside of the plug limit plate (9) and/or the outside of the vertical sheet that forms part of the angle bar (19) located on the inside of the posts (3).

[0084] In a second option for connection between the plug (6) and outlet (4) with screws (21) or rods, shown in Figures 8 and 9, a circular hole (24) is made on the vertical sheet that forms part of the angle bar (19). The height and plane of this hole are aligned with the threaded hole (25) of the closing cover (15) on the far end of the pin (12). The fusible threaded rods or screws (21) with the resistance calculated will be inserted through both holes.

[0085] In this option, if a fusible threaded rod is used, it will be attached to the unit by a nut tightened on the back part of the vertical sheet that forms part of the angle bar.

[0086] On the lower base of the pin (12) of the plug (2) there is also a recess (26) so that the fusible threaded rods or screws can be removed when they break, after the system has been put into operation.

[0087] For the connection option with flanges (22), a rectangular window-shaped opening (27) is made on the vertical sheet that is part of the angle bar (19), where a horizontal ring (28) is welded, which crosses it, and it is aligned with another ring (28) welded to the end of the pin (12) of the plug (6). The resistance flange (22) will clasp both rings.

[0088] These flanges (22) can be made of any material, but preferably plastic or metal will be used.

[0089] Since the nature of this invention and how it is put into practice has been sufficiently described, it is not considered to be necessary to provide any additional explanation so that an expert on the subject has enough information to understand its scope and the advantages it provides, and reproduce the invention. It is noted that the essential aspects of the invention can be put into practice in other forms of construction that differ in detail from that indicated as an example, which will also be covered by the protection provided as long as the main principle is not altered, changed or modified.

Claims

1. DEVICE FOR DETECTION OF FALLING OBJECTS THAT DISTINGUISHES BETWEEN THE ROCKS RETAINED OR ALLOWED TO PASS ACCORDING TO THEIR SIZE AND IMPACT ENERGY, particularly applicable for protection of land travel routes, communications routes or other infrastructures, in certain areas of these that may be affected by falling objects that can obstruct or damage them, characterised by the fact that it is a barrier (1) made up of mesh (2) attached to some posts (3) equipped with a number of connectors (30) that have outlets (4) connected to an electrical cable (31), which has a closed circuit connection to a battery centre (35) and a transmitter and antenna or optic fibre cable power supply control centre (36). They are used for insertion of the plugs (6) that, as a result of the limits (12) especially designed for this purpose, secure the mesh (2) while also closing the electrical circuit described above; in which the battery centre (35) is able to generate the power required to maintain the system active, and in which the transmitter and antenna or optic fibre cable power supply control centre (36) is connected to the system in a way that, when the current cannot complete the circuit because one of the connectors (30) has been released, there has been a failure in the battery centre (35), or for any other reason, it sends an alarm signal to a control centre it is connected to.

2. DEVICE FOR DETECTION OF FALLING OBJECTS THAT DISTINGUISHES BETWEEN THE ROCKS RETAINED OR ALLOWED TO PASS ACCORDING TO THEIR SIZE AND IMPACT ENERGY, according to claim 1, characterised by the fact that the mesh (2) can be metal of single, double or triple torsion (e.g., steel, aluminium, copper) or fabric (woven or non-woven), or consist of a sheet made of any of these materials.

3. DEVICE FOR DETECTION OF FALLING OBJECTS THAT DISTINGUISHES BETWEEN THE ROCKS RETAINED OR ALLOWED TO PASS BY THEIR SIZE AND IMPACT ENERGY, according to claim 1, characterised by the fact that the posts (3) can consist of open or closed profiles or tubes, that can be made of metal (e.g., steel, aluminium, copper) or concrete and/or plastic material (e.g., polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, polypropylene).

4. DEVICE FOR DETECTION OF FALLING OBJECTS THAT DISTINGUISHES BETWEEN THE ROCKS RETAINED OR ALLOWED TO PASS BY THEIR SIZE AND IMPACT ENERGY, according to claims 1 to 3, characterised by the fact that in order to be equipped with the connectors (30) that close the electrical circuit, the posts (3) have several bore holes (17) distributed lengthways on at least one of the sides that are appropriate for installation of the outlets (4), because the electrical cable (31) the outlets (4) are connected to runs along the inside of the posts (3) and its return to the battery centre (35) is protected and/or buried.

5. DEVICE FOR DETECTION OF FALLING OBJECTS THAT DISTINGUISHES BETWEEN THE ROCKS RETAINED OR ALLOWED TO PASS BY THEIR SIZE AND IMPACT ENERGY, according to claims 1 to 4, characterised by the fact that the posts (3) are anchored to the ground, preferably by concrete foundations (32) in which the post (3) is embedded in a bridle joint (33) made intentionally in the concrete.

6. DEVICE FOR DETECTION OF FALLING OBJECTS THAT DISTINGUISHES BETWEEN THE ROCKS RETAINED OR ALLOWED TO PASS BY THEIR SIZE AND IMPACT ENERGY, according to claims 1 to 5, characterised by the fact that the plugs (6) are attached to the mesh (2) by a fastening chain (34).

7. DEVICE FOR DETECTION OF FALLING OBJECTS THAT DISTINGUISHES BETWEEN THE ROCKS RETAINED OR ALLOWED TO PASS BY THEIR SIZE AND IMPACT ENERGY, according to claims 1 to 6, characterised by the fact that the battery centre (35) is charged by a solar or photovoltaic plate (37), or any other system of power supply.

8. DEVICE FOR DETECTION OF FALLING OBJECTS THAT DISTINGUISHES BETWEEN THE ROCKS RETAINED OR ALLOWED TO PASS BY THEIR SIZE AND IMPACT ENERGY, according to claims 1 to 7, characterised by the fact that, when an object falls, it hits the mesh (2) attached to the posts (3) by the plugs (6). If it is large enough and has enough force to release one of the plugs (6) from outlets (4), the electrical circuit is interrupted and the antenna (36) will send an alarm signal to the control centre.

9. DEVICE FOR DETECTION OF FALLING OBJECTS THAT DISTINGUISHES BETWEEN THE ROCKS RETAINED OR ALLOWED TO PASS BY THEIR SIZE AND IMPACT ENERGY, according to claims 1 to 7, characterised by the fact that, if the falling object that hits the mesh (2) does not have enough force to release one of the plugs (6), the alarm will not be triggered even though it has hit the mesh (2) because the mesh will have stopped it. Therefore, it will not be dangerous for the roadway, travel route, or structure protected.

10. DEVICE FOR DETECTION OF FALLING OBJECTS THAT DISTINGUISHES BETWEEN THE ROCKS RETAINED OR ALLOWED TO PASS BY THEIR SIZE AND IMPACT ENERGY, according to claims 1 to 7, characterised by the fact that, if the falling object hits the post (3) and has enough force to break it or deform it, one of the plugs (6) will be released and the alarm signal will sound. If the object that hits the post (3) does not break it or deform it, the plugs (6) will not be released and, as a result, the signal will not be triggered.

11. IMPROVEMENT OF THE INVENTION UNDER PATENT NO. P200900175 BY: DEVICE FOR DETECTION OF FALLING OBJECTS THAT DISTINGUISHES BETWEEN THE ROCKS RETAINED OR ALLOWED TO PASS BY THEIR SIZE AND IMPACT ENERGY, according to claims 1 to 10, made of a barrier (1), which includes a mesh (2), attached to posts (3) equipped with connectors formed by outlets (4) connected to a cable (5) that is attached to an electrical circuit and suitable for insertion of the plugs (6), which secure the mesh (2) while also closing the electrical circuit described above, characterised by the fact that they consist of posts (3) made of UPN or U-shaped sheet profiles in which the plugs (6) made up of a square or rectangular limit plate (9), which has a hollow metal "pin" (12) welded on one of its sides and a U-shaped clamp (8) that the cables (5) pass through on the opposite side, in which the cables finish at the beginning and end of each barrier section (1). They are attached to some "T" profiles (10) cemented to the ground on both sides of these barrier sections (1), in which the outlets (4) are formed by a strip (18) of metal sheet welded to the inside of the post (3) in each of the holes (17) made to allow passage of the pin (12) of the plugs (6). The opposite end of this strip (18) is open and is supported by an angle bar (19) welded horizontally to the two wings of the post (3). On the upper side of the strip (18) there is a circular threaded aperture (20) for passage and fastening the cylindrical switch (14) of the "end of stroke" device (11) that the connectors are equipped with.

12. IMPROVEMENT OF THE INVENTION UNDER PATENT NO. P200900175 BY: DEVICE FOR DETECTION OF FALLING OBJECTS THAT DISTINGUISHES BETWEEN THE ROCKS RETAINED OR ALLOWED TO PASS BY THEIR SIZE AND IMPACT ENERGY, according to claim 11, characterised by the fact that the posts (3) are closed from above by an upper cover (7) and have a front sheet (29) screwed into the open part, which is equipped with watertight components to prevent water from entering inside.

13. IMPROVEMENT OF THE INVENTION UNDER PATENT NO. P200900175 BY: DEVICE FOR DETECTION OF FALLING OBJECTS THAT DISTINGUISHES BETWEEN THE ROCKS RETAINED OR ALLOWED TO PASS BY THEIR SIZE AND IMPACT ENERGY, according to claim 11, characterised by the fact that the cables (5) are made of galvanised steel and are attached to the mesh (2) placed horizontally.

14. IMPROVEMENT OF THE INVENTION UNDER PATENT NO. P200900175 BY: DEVICE FOR DETECTION OF FALLING OBJECTS THAT DISTINGUISHES BETWEEN THE ROCKS RETAINED OR ALLOWED TO PASS BY THEIR SIZE AND IMPACT ENERGY, according to claim 11, characterised by the fact that the pin (12) of the plugs (6) has a chamfer (13) on the upper side of its far end in order to raise and maintain pressure on the switch (14) for the "end of stroke" device (11).

15. IMPROVEMENT OF THE INVENTION UNDER PATENT NO. P200900175 BY: DEVICE FOR DETECTION OF FALLING OBJECTS THAT DISTINGUISHES BETWEEN THE ROCKS RETAINED OR ALLOWED TO PASS BY THEIR SIZE AND IMPACT ENERGY, according to claims 11 to 14, characterised by the fact that for connection between the plugs (6) and outlets (4), in a construction option in which fusible threaded rods or screws (21) are used, preferably made of plastic or metal, the limit plates (9) of the plugs (6) have a central aperture (23) to allow passage of these threaded rods or screws (21). A circular hole is made (24) on the vertical sheet that forms part of the angle bar (19), with a height and plane that are aligned with this central aperture (23) on the limit plate (9) so that the fusible rods or screws (21) with a calculated resistance will be inserted in both holes, depending on the rock to be retained or allowed to pass through the barrier (1), secured with threaded nuts (made of plastic or metal) on both ends of the threaded rods or on the end opposite the screwhead, on the outside of the limit plate (9) of the plugs and/or the outside of the vertical sheet that forms part of the angle bar (19) located inside of the posts (3).

16. IMPROVEMENT OF THE INVENTION UNDER PATENT NO. P200900175 BY: DEVICE FOR DETECTION OF FALLING OBJECTS THAT DISTINGUISHES BETWEEN THE ROCKS RETAINED OR ALLOWED TO PASS BY THEIR SIZE AND IMPACT ENERGY, according to claims 11 to 14, characterised by the fact that for connection between the plugs (6) and outlets (4), in an alternative construction option in which fusible threaded rods or screws (21) are used on the vertical sheet that forms part of the angle bar (19), a circular hole (24) is made, with height and plane aligned with the threaded hole (25) of the closing cover (26) on the far end of the pin (12), and the fusible threaded rods or screws (21) with a calculated resistance are inserted depending on the rock that is to be retained or allow to pass through the barrier (1), with a recess (26) on the lower base of the pin (12) of the plug (2) to be able to remove the fusible threaded rods or screws when they break, after the system has been put into service.

17. IMPROVEMENT OF THE INVENTION UNDER PATENT NO. P200900175 BY: DEVICE FOR DETECTION OF FALLING OBJECTS THAT DISTINGUISHES BETWEEN THE ROCKS RETAINED OR ALLOWED TO PASS BY THEIR SIZE AND IMPACT ENERGY, according to claims 11 to 14, characterised by the fact that for the connection between the plugs (6) and outlets (4), in a construction option in which flanges (22) are used on the vertical sheet that forms part of the angle bar (19), a rectangular window-shaped opening (27) is made, which a horizontal ring (28) that crosses it is welded to, and it is positioned to be aligned with another ring (28) welded to the end of the pin (12) of the plug (6), so that the flange (22) with a calculated resistance clasps both rings, depending on the rock that is to be retained or allowed to pass through the barrier (1).

Drawing