BARRIER SYSTEM AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING AND INSTALLATION THEREOF

Abstract

 "information on abstract not available".

Description

Field of the invention

[0001] The invention relates to a barrier system for controlling the passage of a vehicle, comprising a rotatable barrier, which comprises: an aboveground element adapted for movement in a plane substantially parallel to a driving surface, wherein the aboveground element is moveable between a first position in which the aboveground element blocks the passage of the vehicle and a second position in which the passage of the vehicle is possible; and a belowground element comprising a control room. The invention further relates to a method of manufacturing a barrier system and a method of installing a barrier system.

Background art

[0002] Such a barrier system is known from US 2005/0249552, which shows a barrier system with a turntable providing an upper surface which is rotatable in the plane of a driving surface. On the turntable, a plurality of impact elements are mounted on the upper surface, in a pattern having a spacing which is configured to allow passage there through by narrow vehicles, such a bicycles, and pedestrians, and to prevent passage of wider vehicles, when the turntable is rotated to a second position. The platform is substantially circular, having a row of impact elements arranged thereon which does not coincide with the centre of rotation of the turntable. To be able to turn the row of elements away for allowing a vehicle to pass, the turntable is relatively large, which makes the barrier system very conspicuous in the streetscape and which can lead to dangerous situations if a vehicle is (partly) on the turntable during the rotation movement. The turntable is supported along the circumferential edge by wheels or ball bearings for stable and reliable turning. A disadvantage of these rolling elements is that they must be lubricated and cleaned regularly to continue to work properly.

Summary of the invention

[0003] The object of the invention is to provide a barrier system which is safer and more reliable in use.

[0004] According to the invention, a barrier system as described above is provided, wherein the belowground element is sealed at the upper side with a metal cover plate and arranged to be installed in the ground, such that an upper surface of the cover plate is mainly coplanar with the driving surface, wherein the control room comprises a turntable having an axis of rotation which is perpendicular to the driving surface. The turntable comprises a first and a second part which are rotatable relative to each other, the first part being releasably connected to an inner surface of the control room and an end of the second part protruding through an opening in the cover plate and being releasably connected to a lower surface of the aboveground element. The aboveground element comprises a metal plate and a heavy object attached thereto, the metal plate forming the bottom surface of the aboveground element, which bottom surface is less than or equal to an area of a bottom of the heavy object and is connected to the second part of the turntable such that a vertical distance between the cover plate and the metal plate is negligible so that these slide over one another during rotation between the first and second position.

[0005] By a vehicle, a vehicle from a group of broader (motor) vehicles is meant, which group of vehicles comprises cars, buses, trucks, trailers and the like. The heavy object has a mass chosen such that it can stop vehicles of a certain mass and a certain maximum speed. The heavy object is thus an object that is blocking by weight. The shape and material choice of the heavy object can be adapted to specific project requirements and aesthetic wishes.

[0006] The aboveground element rotates in its entirety, with the metal plate being completely covered by the heavy object, which extends vertically above the driving surface, so that under normal circumstances it is not possible for a vehicle to be (partly) on the aboveground element when it is moving between the first and second positions, thereby providing increased safety for traffic moving along and through the barrier system.

[0007] The turntable forms a rotatable connection between the belowground element and the aboveground element, which connection, again depending on project specific requirements or choices, can be placed both centrally or off-center in the horizontal plane. Since the vertical distance between the cover plate of the belowground element and the metal plate of the aboveground element is negligible, the plates slide over each other when the heavy object is moved between the first position and the second position. As a result, the heavy object is optimally supported. In addition, the metal plate increases the strength of the aboveground element.

[0008] The aboveground element is preferably designed in such a way that it has a center of gravity which is located in the horizontal plane above the rotatable connection. Due to the negligible distance between the cover plate and the metal plate, dirt has hardly any access between the plates, enabling a low friction between both plates being maintained without additional measures. The aboveground element has a considerable freedom of form, which means that it can contribute to an aesthetically beautiful and practical street scene. For example, it can be a stone or a concrete block, on which a further decorative object may be mounted. The heavy object can also be a bench or a planter.

[0009] By means of a single one of these barrier elements it is already possible to achieve a desired barrier for larger vehicles such as cars, the barrier element having an off-center rotatable connection. As a result, in the first position, a passage between a fixed barrier element and an end of the aboveground element is narrower in the longitudinal direction thereof than the width of the vehicle. In the second position, a passage between an end of the aboveground element in the width direction and a fixed barrier element is wider than the width of the vehicle.

[0010] Alternatively, two of these rotatable barrier elements with heavy objects oblong in the horizontal plane can be arranged side by side in the barrier system and the passage can be successfully closed for larger vehicles such as cars, with the objects in the first, closed position, the objects being longitudinally aligned with one another. In the second, open position, where the objects are longitudinally parallel to each other, a passage for such vehicles is provided.

[0011] The control room of the belowground element can be arranged such that the belowground element has a width and a length equal to or less than the width and length of the heavy object. As a result, the maximum surface area of the upper surface of the metal cover plate that is exposed when the aboveground element is partially turned therefrom is less than half of the bottom surface of the aboveground element.

[0012] In one embodiment, the control room further comprises an electric or hydraulic drive motor connected to the turntable by a worm gear drive and arranged to rotate the turntable between the first and second positions and a control unit connected to the drive motor and arranged to receive a control signal from a remotely located control panel and to generate an activation signal for turning the drive motor on and off based on a received control signal.

[0013] By using a worm gear, the position of the aboveground element relative to the belowground element is locked when the drive motor is switched off. If desired, an additional locking element can be added to strengthen the barrier system against larger and heavier vehicles.

[0014] The choice of the drive motor type, electric or hydraulic, can differ per project depending on the circumstances in which the barrier system is to be placed. For example, a hydraulic drive motor is more resistant to moisture and can transfer large forces. The advantage of an electric drive motor is that it is often more compact and contains fewer parts, since it does not require an external compressor.

[0015] The control unit can receive control signals that are entered remotely through a control panel. This control panel can be, for example, a panel connected wired or wireless to the control unit or an app on a computer, telephone or tablet.

[0016] In an embodiment, the end of the second part of the turntable that protrudes through the opening in the cover plate, extends into the heavy object and the metal plate comprises a corresponding protrusion in which the end of the second part is received to form the connection between the belowground and aboveground elements. In this manner, the protruding end of the second part of the turntable forms a simple detachable connection with the aboveground element, wherein the aboveground element cannot be moved with respect to the belowground element after installation, other than with a lift element such as a crane. In a preferred embodiment, the end of the second portion and the inner volume of the bulge have matching polygonal cross-sections so that a torque generated by the turntable is directly transferred to the aboveground element through the protrusion. As a result, no additional connections are required between the turntable and the metal plate. The heavy object can be detachably connected to the metal plate, but since no additional connecting means are present between the metal plate and the second part of the turntable, it is also possible to manufacture and install the aboveground element as an inseparable whole.

[0017] In an embodiment, the protrusion of the metal plate is provided with a plurality of non-vertical anchoring pins, and the heavy object is fixedly connected around the protrusion and non-vertical anchoring pins. The heavy object may be made of a hardening material, such as concrete, with the metal plate with the protrusion placed in the material before it cures, or the heavy object may be provided with a cavity into which the protrusion is placed and around which curable material is added for providing a fixed connection between the heavy object and the metal plate.

[0018] In a further embodiment, the metal plate has a width and length equal to a width and a length of an underside of the heavy object and the thickness of the metal plate is between 10 mm and 22 mm, preferably between 12 mm and the 20 mm and the metal plate is provided on a top side with a plurality of vertical anchoring pins which are arranged in a pattern on the upper surface of the metal plate. The heavy object is provided with vertical openings in a corresponding pattern in which the anchoring pins are received and anchored.

[0019] Anchoring of the anchoring pins in the corresponding vertical openings can for instance take place by means of bolts, which are tightened onto the anchoring pins from the top of the heavy object. The vertical openings can then be sealed, so that the heavy object cannot simply be detached and removed by a malicious party, but such that this remains possible, for example, to carry out scheduled maintenance. In the latter situation, the heavy object can then be lifted off the anchoring pins by means of a crane or forklift truck, after which the connection between the metal plate and the belowground part of the barrier element is exposed so that this connection can also be detached in order to gain access to the control room for regular maintenance and / or repair work.

[0020] By tightening the anchoring pins, the metal plate is pulled against the heavy object, so that the metal plate is strengthened by the heavy object. As a result, the metal plate can be made thin, and therefore be relatively light-weight.

[0021] In an embodiment, the barrier system comprises an belowground anchoring or foundation plate which is connected to the belowground element.

[0022] Advantageously, the barrier system is thereby configurable depending on a center of gravity and the dimensions of the aboveground element, as well as the soil properties of the ground in which the belowground element is applied, ensuring that the belowground element is maintained stable when the aboveground element is in the first or second position or rotates between these positions. Whether an anchorage or foundation plate is required and the dimensions thereof depend on the soil in which the barrier system is to be installed, as well as the size and weight of the aboveground element and the required level of protection provided by the barrier system.

[0023] In a further embodiment, the upper surface of the cover plate and / or the bottom surface of the metal plate is provided with a plastic layer.

[0024] In order to further reduce any friction between the bottom surface of the metal plate and the upper surface of the cover plate, the cover plate and / or the metal plate can be provided with a plastic layer, such as, for example, a Teflon layer. A lower friction ensures that less force is required to turn the aboveground part, so that less energy is required for the turning movement and, if necessary, a lighter drive motor can be used in the barrier system.

[0025] Alternatively or in addition to the use of the Teflon layer, roller elements can be used to further reduce the friction. These roller elements are arranged in the bottom surface of the metal plate in a circular pattern along and near the circumference of the opening in the upper surface of the cover plate. The rolling elements are, for example, small ball bearings or wheels which are arranged in the metal plate in such a way that they protrude minimally from the bottom surface thereof, so that the vertical distance between the cover plate and the metal plate remains negligible and the metal plate rests mainly on the cover plate.

[0026] In an embodiment, the opening in the cover plate is provided with a dam / raised edge which extends vertically upward from the upper surface.

[0027] The upright edge prevents any water, for example as a result of a rain shower, which possibly flows between the aboveground element and the belowground element, from ending up in the control room. In order to keep a distance between the metal plate and the cover plate as small as possible, a matching groove or opening may be provided in the bottom surface of the metal plate. Additionally, it is possible to provide the control room with a drain at a lower side, for discharging any water that does end up in the control room, for example when the cover plate has been removed for maintenance or by condensation.

[0028] In an embodiment, the heavy object weighs at least 300 kg.

[0029] Due to the weight of the object, it is not easy to move and is able to stop larger motor vehicles. The final weight of the heavy object in a barrier system that is to be installed is determined per project on the basis of project-specific security requirements. The required weight can be obtained, for example, by manufacturing the heavy object by using one or more materials having a high mass density, such as stone, concrete or metal. The heavy object can also be weighted by filling it with, for example, water or earth.

[0030] In a further embodiment, the aboveground element is provided with at least one recess in a side face of the heavy object, the recess comprising an open channel extending between the recess and a position in the bottom surface of the metal plate above the opening in the cover plate.

[0031] The recess can be used to provide a sensor and / or lighting to or in a side face of the heavy object. Through the channel, the sensor and / or lighting can be connected to the control unit and the drive motor, so that it is supplied with power and control signals.

[0032] For example, sensors may be mounted and configured with the control unit to provide an obstruction signal to the control unit in the event of an obstruction in a rotational movement of the aboveground element between the first and second positions, and the control unit being arranged to, after receiving the obstruction signal, send an activation signal to the drive motor so that the drive motor shuts down or turns the aboveground element away from the obstruction. Through the at least one sensor ensuring that the drive motor is switched off, or that the element is turned away from the obstruction, it is prevented that a vehicle or person is being hit by the heavy object when a turning movement is switched on and this vehicle or person is still in the path thereof. It is also possible to install a sensor that can receive a signal from a transmitter on which the control unit switches on a movement of the aboveground element to the second position. For example, to provide automatic passage for vehicles equipped with this transmitter.

[0033] Furthermore, it is possible to install a signal element in the barrier system for signaling traffic when a movement is initiated and / or when access is free for larger vehicles. The signal element can, for example, emit a sound signal or a light signal. Lighting can also be added in one or more side surfaces of the heavy object to enhance visibility at night or in bad weather.

[0034] A manufacturing method for making a barrier element for a barrier system according to an embodiment comprises the steps of:

a) providing an open top box construction and a turntable having a first and a second part, said parts being rotatable relative to one another about an axis of rotation;

b) inserting the turntable into the box construction, such that the axis of rotation is perpendicular to the open top and connecting the first part to an inner surface of the box construction;

c) arranging a cover plate on the open top of the box construction, which cover plate is provided with a round opening through which the second part of the turntable protrudes, such that the surface of the end of the second part of the turntable extends to be substantially flush with an upper surface of the cover plate, or wherein the end of the second part of the turntable extends to a predetermined height above the cover plate and has a cross section parallel to the cover plate which is polygonal;

d) providing a metal plate with an elongated surface having a length, and a width which is equal or smaller than half of the length, and a heavy object comprising stone or concrete, with a bottom surface which is at least the same size as the metal plate and having a height of at least 0.4 m;

e) providing a centrally located connection point in the metal plate, for making a releasable connection between the metal plate and the second part of the turntable such that the surface of the end of the second part of the turntable is on an underside of the metal plate and providing connecting means to the top of the metal plate, which connecting means are adapted to detachably connect the heavy object to the metal plate, or
providing a connection point in the metal plate by providing a protrusion in the metal plate which fits over the second part of the turntable extending above the cover plate, such that a bottom surface of the metal plate abuts an upper surface of the cover plate, for the releasable connection of the metal plate to the second part of the turntable, and the application of connecting means to the protrusion for connecting the heavy object to the metal plate.

[0035] The box construction with cover plate, which forms the outside of the belowground part, and the metal plate, which forms the bottom side of the aboveground part, can be made as standard components, usable for all applications. The heavy object can also be made as a standard component in a number of embodiments, for example as an angular block, planter and bench. Alternatively, the heavy object and possibly the metal plate can be adapted to specific project requirements.

[0036] Connecting means that may be used may include bolts, glue and / or profiles. Preferably the connecting means are detachable so that the heavy object is removable to provide access to the centrally located connection point, so that the box construction remains accessible for maintenance and repair. For example, the metal plate can be provided with a profile over which the heavy object can be moved by means of a sliding movement.

[0037] Preferably, the turntable has a length along the longitudinal direction approximately equal to the height of the box construction, such that a surface of one end of the second part of the turntable projects above the box construction when it is located inside the box construction for connecting the metal plate directly thereto, or the metal plate has a protrusion which extends into the heavy object for receiving the second part of the turntable protruding from the box construction, so that the metal plate and cover plate lie on top of one another.

[0038] In an embodiment, step b) further comprises:

• installing an electric or hydraulic drive motor in the box construction and connecting it to the turntable by means of a worm wheel drive, such that the second part of the turntable can be rotated back and forth at least a quarter of a turn relative to the first part of the turntable by the drive motor; and
• arranging a control unit adapted for receiving a control signal and to generate an activation signal based on a received control signal for switching on and off the drive motor and connecting the control unit to the drive motor.

[0039] Furthermore, the invention is directed to a manufacturing method for an aboveground element for a barrier system, comprising

providing a metal plate,

making a protrusion in the metal plate, comprising a hollow space shaped to fit over the end of the second part of the turntable of the barrier system

providing a plurality of non-vertical anchoring pins on an outside of the protrusion, and

applying a curing material over the protrusion to form the heavy object and / or permanently anchor the heavy object to the metal plate.

[0040] Further, the invention is directed to an installation method for a barrier system according to the claims.

Brief description of the drawings

[0041] Embodiments of a barrier system according to the present invention will be described by way of example, with reference to the attached drawings, in which:

Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of a barrier system according to the invention in the street scene, in the closed position;

Fig. 2 is a perspective top view of the barrier system of FIG. 1 in the open position;

Fig. 3 is a perspective front view of the rotatable barrier element of the barrier system of FIG. 1;

Fig. 4 shows the rotatable barrier element of FIG. 2, without heavy object;

Fig. 5 shows the belowground element of the rotatable barrier element of FIG. 2; and

Fig. 6 is a perspective top view of the belowground element of FIG. 5, without cover plate;

Fig. 7 is an exploded view of an alternative embodiment of a rotatable barrier element of a barrier system according to the invention.

Description of embodiments

[0042] Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of a barrier system 100 according to the invention in the street scene, in the closed position. The barrier system 100 consists of a series of barrier elements 5, 50 for barricading a driving surface G for motor vehicles, such as a car 1, wherein the driving surface G is part of, for example, a street, square or entrance to a building. Each barrier element consists of an elongated shaped aboveground element 4, 40, which extends vertically from the driving surface over a height h1 of at least 0.4m, and an associated belowground element 2, 20, which anchors the aboveground element in the soil. The barrier elements shown in FIG. 1 have an belowground and an aboveground element of equal length W of at least 2.5 meters, which are connected to each other such that, in the closed position as shown, the aboveground element rests completely on the belowground element. Depending on project specific requirements, the aboveground and belowground elements can also be chosen with lengths that differ from one another. A horizontal distance between any two barrier elements a1 placed side by side is less than the width B of a vehicle 1, such as the car shown, but preferably wide enough to allow passage of pedestrians and cyclists. For regular, controlled passage of motor vehicles, the barrier system 100 has two rotatable barrier elements 50, which are positioned side by side in the longitudinal direction, each of which comprising a rotatable connection between the aboveground element 40 and the belowground element 20. The aboveground elements 4, 40 have concrete blocks and concrete benches which block the passageway in the closed position. Thanks to the use of a material with a high mass density, such as concrete, the barrier element has sufficient mass to withstand a significant impact from a vehicle. The shape and dimensions of the aboveground elements can be determined per project based on security requirements and aesthetic preferences. For example, as alternative heavy objects, a boulder shape, a statue or a flower box can also be used for the top element 4, 40. The aboveground elements can also comprise other materials such as metal or other rock-like material.

[0043] Fig. 2 shows a perspective top view of the barrier system of FIG. 1, with two rotatable barrier elements 50 located next to each other, in the open position. The elements have a width d which is at most equal to half the length W. In the open position, as shown, the aboveground elements 40 are rotated relative to the belowground elements 20, such that a horizontal distance a2 between the two aboveground elements 40 is wider than the width of a vehicle B, preferably at least 2.8 meters, allowing the passage of said vehicle. In FIG. 2, each aboveground element is off-center, viewed in the longitudinal direction, rotatably connected to the belowground element, wherein the two adjacent rotatable barrier elements 50 are mirror-symmetrical to each other, such that the passage a3 between each rotatable barrier element 50 and an adjacent fixed barrier element 5 is maintained to be narrower than the width of a vehicle B. The choice of the position of the rotatable connection of the rotatable barrier element 50 relative to the longitudinal direction W of the aboveground element can be chosen depending on the project and, for example, can also be placed in the centre. The mass distribution of the aboveground element is such that a center of gravity of the aboveground element 20 is in the horizontal plane centrally above the rotatable connection of the rotatable barrier element 50. It is also possible to place more than two rotatable barriers 50 side by side in the barrier system, so as to obtain a plurality of passages parallel to each other when all rotatable barriers 50 are rotated in the open position. These passages can be opened and closed simultaneously or separately. Further features of the rotatable barrier elements 50 are described in more detail with reference to Figs. 3-6.

[0044] Fig. 3 shows a perspective frontal view of a rotatable barrier element of the barrier system of FIG. 1. The aboveground element 40 comprises a heavy object 49, in the form of a concrete bench, and a metal plate 41, which are fixedly connected to each other and wherein a bottom 42 of the heavy object is directly connected to an upper side of the metal plate 41. The bottom 42 of the heavy object matches the top of the metal plate 41. The belowground element comprises a box construction 21 with a cover plate 29, which cover plate 29 closes off an open top side of the box construction 21 (see Fig. 6), so that the belowground element forms a closed unit. The aboveground element 40 is placed directly onto the belowground element 20, such that a bottom side of the metal plate 41 rests mainly on an upper side of the cover plate 29. The cover plate 29 is also a metal plate, the upper surface of which lies substantially flush with the road surface. The bottom surface of the metal plate 41 and the upper surface of the cover plate 29 are smooth surfaces, i.e. a friction coefficient between both surfaces is low. The aboveground element 40 is fixedly connected to the belowground element 20 by a rotatable connection, which connection is discussed further in reference to Figs. 5 and 6. During rotational movements of the aboveground element relative to the belowground element between the closed position, as shown in Fig. 1, and the open position, as shown in FIG. 2, the metal plate 41 and the cover plate 29 slide over each other, which requires relatively little force due to the low friction coefficient. The friction between both surfaces can be further reduced as desired by applying a plastic layer, such as a Teflon layer, to the upper surface of the cover plate 29 and/or the bottom surface of the metal plate 41 or by applying ball bearings or wheels in the bottom surface of the metal plate 41. Due to its weight and the anchoring to the belowground element 20, the aboveground element is not easily movable if the rotatable connection of the rotatable barrier element 50 is secured, so that unauthorized persons cannot gain access easily. The belowground element serves as a ballast and foundation for the aboveground element, wherein the size and shape of the belowground element depend on circumstances such as soil type. In order to guarantee sufficient stability and ballast, an additional foundation of, for example, concrete can be placed under and/or around the box construction 21. To make the passageway visible, lighting, such as red and/or green lamps, can be placed on or in a side surface of the heavy object. One or more sensors can also be arranged on or in one or more of the side surfaces, which sensors are adapted to register the presence of an object or a transmitted signal. To this end, one or more recesses can be provided in one or more side surfaces of the aboveground element, in which sensors and/or lights can be fitted as desired. In the rotatable connection between the aboveground element and the belowground element, an electrical feed-through facility may be provided to power provisions mounted in the heavy object, such as said lights, and enable connection to the controller.

[0045] Fig. 4 shows the barrier element of FIG. 2, without heavy object, such that it is visible that the metal plate 41 is provided with vertical anchoring pins 44 and that the metal plate 41 comprises a centrally located connection point 46 for the rotatable connection. The vertical anchoring pins 44 are, as an example, shown in a symmetrical pattern around the centrally located connection point 46, arranged near the periphery of the metal plate 41. In the heavy object (not shown) an equal number of vertical openings is provided in a corresponding pattern, for anchoring the anchoring pins 44 therein. This anchoring can take place, for example, by means of bolts, which are tightened from the top of the heavy object onto the anchoring pins. In the depicted example, eight anchoring pins are shown, but the amount of anchoring pins and their spacing may vary per project, depending on the dimensions of the heavy object and the metal plate. By tightening the bolts, the metal plate is pulled against the bottom of the heavy object. As a result, the metal plate is strengthened by the heavy object and the metal plate can have a relatively small thickness t, while still achieving sufficient support for and rigidity in the construction. The thickness of the metal plate depends on the weight and shape of the heavy object and is preferably between 10 mm and 22 mm, more preferably between 12 mm and 20 mm. It will be obvious that, if the heavy object is not orto a lesser extent used to reinforce the metal plate, metal plates with a greater thickness can also be used. The centrally located connection point 46 consists of a number of boreholes with bolts arranged therein, which form a releasable fixed connection to the rotating element discussed further with reference to Figs. 5 and 6. Since the centrally located connection point 46, when the heavy object is installed, is completely covered by the heavy object, the connection between the aboveground element 40 and the belowground element 20 is protected against rainwater, de-icing salt and other contaminants and is protected against easy loosening.

[0046] Fig. 5 shows the belowground element of the barrier element of FIG. 2, comprising the box construction 21 and the cover plate 29, wherein it is visible that the cover plate 29 is provided with an opening 27 at the location of the centrally located connection point of the metal plate, which was shown in FIG. 4. The size and shape of the opening 27 are such that a rotating element 22 provided in the belowground element with an upper end 23 lies completely in the opening 27, allowing a direct connection between the rotating element 22 and the centrally located connection point of the aboveground element and the rotating element 22 establishing the rotatable connection. As discussed in reference to FIG. 3, this connection is such that a bottom side of the metal plate 41 then abuts the upper side 28 of the cover plate 29. Along the outer circumference of the opening 27 an flange is arranged, which extends vertically upwards from the upper surface 28, and which serves as a damming wall. The damming wall prevents any water that, despite the direct contact between the aboveground and the belowground element, would pass between the metal plate and the cover plate 29 and reach the control room inside the box construction 21. In order to not prohibit the direct contact between the cover plate 29 and the metal plate, a matching groove is provided in the bottom surface of the metal plate around the centrally located connection point, in which the upright edge fits in a non-contacting manner.

[0047] Fig. 6 shows a perspective top view of the belowground element of FIG. 5, without cover plate, such that a control room 25 is visible inside the box construction 21 of the belowground element. The control room 25 comprises the rotary element 22, a drive motor 15, a worm wheel drive 11 and a control unit 17. The depicted rotary element 22 is also known as a turntable or slewing ring and consists of two ring-shaped parts which are rotatable with respect to each other, a centre of each ring-shaped part coinciding with the axis of rotation. A lower end 24 of the first of one the first ring-shaped parts is fixedly connected to the bottom of the box construction 25 so that the axis of rotation is vertical and the upper end 23 of the second ring-shaped part is parallel to the open top surface of the box construction. The drive motor 15 is connected by means of the worm wheel drive 11 to the second ring-shaped part of the rotary element 22, a rotary axis of the worm wheel drive 11 being perpendicular to the rotary axis of the rotary element 22 and engages the worm wheel drive 11 on an outer surface of the second ring-shaped part of the rotary element 22. As a result, the rotation of the second ring-shaped part relative to the first ring-shaped part is effected by means of the drive motor 15. The drive motor 15 shown is an electric drive motor. Alternatively, a hydraulic drive motor can be used. When the drive motor 15 is switched off, the worm gear drive 11 maintain the second ring-shaped part in a locked position with respect to the first ring-shaped part. The drive is preferably self-braking. As a result, it is not strictly necessary to include an additional locking means in the rotatable barrier 50, but an external brake element or additional locking means may be provided if desired. The control unit 17 is wired to the drive motor 15 and is arranged to receive a control signal from a remote control panel (not shown). On the basis of a received control signal from the control panel, the control unit 17 generates activation signals for switching on and off the drive motor 15. This control panel can for instance be a panel connected via wire or wirelessly to the control unit 17 or be an app on a computer, telephone or tablet. In order to prevent moisture from accumulating in the control room and causing damage and/or malfunctioning, a drainage can be included in the control room (not shown), for example through an outlet opening in the bottom plate, at the lowest point of the box construction 21. It is also possible to install a heating element in the control room 25, arranged to reduce condensation in the control room. Optionally, the box construction 21 is provided with a recess 21a over the entire outer circumference of the top edge, as shown in Fig. 6. This recess matches with the cover plate, which is not shown here, so that shifting between the cover plate and the box construction 21 are prevented without the use of additional fixation means. The flange of the recess 21a also impedes entry into control room by dirt and moisture. The control room shown is generously sized for the parts placed therein and can be reduced, but in principle the size of the control room inside the box construction can be adjusted to the minimum space required to accommodate the rotating element 22, the drive motor 15 with the worm wheel drive 11 and the control unit 17.

[0048] Fig. 7 shows an exploded view of an alternative embodiment of a rotatable barrier element of a barrier system according to the invention. The elements are the same as those of the rotatable barrier element shown in Figs. 3 - 6, but the rotating element 22' is designed differently. Hereto, the metal plate 41' with which the heavy object 49' is connected to the belowground element 20 and the cover plate 29' of the box construction 21' are adapted. The rotating element 22', like the previously described rotating element 22, consists of two mutually rotatable ring-shaped parts, of which the center of each ring-shaped part coincides with the axis of rotation. A lower end of the first ring-shaped part (not shown) is fixedly connected to the bottom of the box construction 21' so that the axis of rotation is vertical and an upper end 23' of the second ring-shaped part extends through the opening 27' in the cover plate 29'. The top end 23' of the second ring-shaped part has an angular cross section, when viewed transversely to the axis of rotation. The metal plate 41' is provided with a protrusion which has a cross section corresponding to the cross-section of the upper end 23', so that it can be placed over the protrusion and a torque of the rotating element 22' is directly transmitted to the metal plate 41'. The protrusion forms the connection point 46' of the metal plate with the rotating element and also the connection point with the heavy object. In order to connect the heavy object to the metal plate 41', an outer surface of the metal plate 41' is provided with non-vertical anchoring pins 44'. The non-vertical anchoring pins 44' form a non-detachable connection between the heavy object and the metal plate 41' which is established by molding the heavy object at least in part around the protrusion 46'. To this end, the heavy object is at least partly made of a hardening material such as concrete, cement or resin, which is applied in liquid form around the protrusion 46' and cured. At a distance from the outer circumference of the opening 27' an upright flange is formed, which forms an upper surface 28' which is parallel to the top of the cover plate 29'. This upper surface 28' has an outer diameter substantially equal to an outer diameter of the metal plate 41' so that the metal plate 41' slides over the upper surface 28' when the aboveground element is rotated relative to the belowground element. Due to the upper surface 28' being higher than the topside of the cover plate, the surface also serves as a water barrier. In order not to disturb the direct contact between the cover plate 29' and the metal plate 41', it is not necessary in this arrangement to provide a matching groove in the bottom surface of the metal plate.

[0049] An alternative embodiment concerns a barrier system with a single rotatable element, wherein the point of rotation is placed off-center, so that the rotation of this element creates a passage between the rotatable element and an adjacent barrier element wide enough to allow a vehicle to pass. The embodiment of the aboveground element in this alternative embodiment is such that a center of gravity of the aboveground element is above the point of rotation.

[0050] The present invention has been described with reference to a number of exemplary embodiments as shown in the figures. Obvious modifications and alternative implementations of some parts or elements will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding the foregoing detailed description. The invention is intended to be construed as encompassing all such modifications and modifications to the extent that they fall within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. Barrier system for controlling a passage of a vehicle, comprising a rotatable barrier element, comprising:

an aboveground element configured for movement in a plane substantially parallel to a driving surface, the aboveground element being movable between a first position in which the aboveground element blocks the passage of the vehicle and a second position in which the passage of the vehicle is possible; and

a belowground element comprising a control room,

characterized in that

the belowground element is closed off with a metal cover plate at the upper side and is arranged to be installed in the soil, such that an upper surface of the cover plate is mainly coplanar with the driving surface, the control room comprising a turntable that is with an axis of rotation perpendicular to the drive surface and which comprises a first and a second part which are rotatable with respect to each other, the first part being detachably connected to an inner surface of the control room and an end of the second part extending through an opening in the cover plate and being detachably connected to a bottom surface of the aboveground element, and

wherein the aboveground element comprises a metal plate and a heavy object attached thereto, the metal plate forming the bottom surface of the aboveground element, which bottom surface area being less than or equal to an area of an underside of the heavy object and which is connected to the end of the second part of the turntable such that a vertical distance between the cover plate and the metal plate is negligible, such that the cover plate and metal plate slide over each other during rotation between the first and second position.

2. Barrier system according to claim 1, wherein the control room further comprises an electric or hydraulic drive motor which is connected to the turntable via a worm wheel drive and is arranged to rotate the turntable between the first and second positions, and a control unit, connected to the drive motor and adapted to receive a control signal from a remote control panel and generate an activation signal for switching the drive motor on and off based on a received control signal.

3. Barrier system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the end of the second part of the turntable protruding through the opening in the cover plate extends into the heavy object and wherein the metal plate comprises a corresponding protrusion in which the end of the second part is received, in order to form the connection between the belowground and aboveground elements.

4. Barrier system according to claim 3, wherein the protrusion of the metal plate is provided with a plurality of non-vertical anchoring pins with which the heavy object is fixedly connected, surrounding the protrusion with non-vertical anchoring pins.

5. Barrier system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the metal plate has a width and length which are equal to a width and a length of an underside of the heavy object and wherein the thickness of the metal plate is between 10 mm and 22 mm, preferably between the 12 mm and the 20 mm, and wherein, on a top side, the metal plate is provided with a number of vertical anchoring pins which are arranged in a pattern on the upper surface of the metal plate, and in which the heavy object is provided with vertical openings in a corresponding pattern in which the anchoring pins are received and anchored.

6. Barrier system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the upper surface of the cover plate and/or the bottom surface of the metal plate is provided with a plastic layer and/or wherein rolling elements are arranged in the bottom surface of the metal plate in a circular pattern along and near the circumference of the opening in the upper surface of the cover plate.

7. Barrier system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the opening in the cover plate is provided with a dam wall/flange which extends vertically upwards from the upper surface.

8. Barrier system according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising an belowground anchor or foundation plate connected to the belowground element.

9. Barrier system according to any one of claims 1-8, wherein the aboveground element is provided with at least one recess in a side surface of the heavy object and which recess comprises an open channel which extends between the recess and a position in the bottom surface of the metal plate above the opening in the cover plate.

10. Method of manufacturing a barrier element for a barrier system, comprising:

a) providing an open top box construction and a turntable with a first and a second part, which parts are rotatable relative to each other about an axis of rotation;

b) inserting the turntable into the box construction such that the axis of rotation is perpendicular to the open top, and connecting the first part to an inner surface of the box construction;

c) arranging a cover plate on the open top of the box construction, which cover plate has a round opening through which the second part of the turntable protrudes, such that the surface of the end of the second part of the turntable extends almost flush with an upper surface of the cover plate, or wherein the end of the second part of the turntable extends to a predetermined height above the cover plate and has a cross section parallel to the cover plate which is polygonal;

d) providing a metal plate with an elongated surface having a length, and a width equal or less than half the length, and a heavy object comprising stone or concrete, with a bottom surface which is at least the same size as the metal plate and has a height of at least 0.4 m;

e) arranging a centrally located connection point in the metal plate, for making a releasable connection between the metal plate and the second part of the turntable such that the surface of the end of the second part of the turntable abuts an underside of the metal plate, and providing connecting means to the upperside of the metal plate, which connecting means are arranged to detachably connect the heavy object to the metal plate, or

arranging a connection point in the metal plate by providing a protrusion in the metal plate which fits over the second part of the turntable extending above the cover plate, such that a bottom surface of the metal plate abuts an upper surface of the cover plate, for the releasable connection of the metal plate to the second part of the turntable, and providing connecting means to the protrusion for connecting the heavy object to the metal plate.

11. A method of manufacturing a barrier element for a barrier system according to claim 10, wherein step b) further comprises

- installing an electric or hydraulic drive motor in the box construction and connecting it to the turntable by means of a worm wheel drive, such that the second part of the turntable can be rotated back and forth at least a quarter of a turn relative to the first part of the turntable by the drive motor; and

- arranging a control unit adapted to receive a control signal and to generate an activation signal on the basis of a received control signal for switching on and off the drive motor, and connecting the control unit to the drive motor.

12. A method of manufacturing an aboveground element for a barrier system according to claim 4, comprising
providing a metal plate,
arranging a protrusion in the metal plate, comprising a hollow space which is shaped such that it fits over the end of the second part of the turntable of the barrier system,
arranging multiple non-vertical anchoring pins on an outside of the protrusion, and
applying a curing material over the protrusion in order to form and/or permanently anchor the heavy object on the metal plate.

13. Method for installing a barrier system comprising a barrier element according to any one of claims 10 - 11, comprising:

i. arranging a box construction in the ground, such that the upper surface of the cover plate is flush with an intended upper surface of the ground;

ii. arranging a driving surface around the box construction such that an upper surface of the driving surface forms the intended upper surface of the ground; and

iii.

- connecting the connection point of the metal plate to the surface of the end of the second part of the turntable which protrudes through the round opening in the cover plate of the box construction;

- lowering the heavy object onto the metal plate, such that the connecting means engage with intended engagement points of the heavy object; and

- securing the connecting means,
or

- providing an aboveground element according to claim 12; and

- placing the aboveground element onto the box construction, such that the protrusion of the metal plate covers the end of the second part of the turntable of the barrier system and the metal plate abuts the cover plate.

14. The method of claim 13, further comprising the installation of at least a second barrier element according steps i - iii, wherein a horizontal distance between the central axis of each barrier element is such that when both barrier elements are each in a first position, the longitudinal direction of both heavy objects are in line with each other, a distance between the aboveground heavy objects being smaller than the width of a motor vehicle and, when both barrier elements are both in the second position, the longitudinal direction of both heavy objects are parallel to one another and perpendicular to in the first position, the distance between the overhead heavy objects being larger than the width of a motor vehicle.

15. A method for installing a barrier system according to claim 13 or claim 14 depending on claim 11, further comprising arranging at least one sensor in a side surface of the heavy object and connecting this sensor to the control unit inside the box construction, wherein the at least one sensor is arranged to transmit an obstruction signal to the control unit if an object is in a movement path of the heavy object extending between the first and second positions and the control unit is arranged to, after an obstruction signal has been received, send an activation signal to the drive motor for switching off the drive motor.

Drawing