Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
WO 2022/023702
PCT/GB2021/051736
Title: System, Apparatus and Method for Installation of Street Furniture
Field of the Invention
The present invention relates, inter alia, to a pre-fabricated modular system
for the
installation of both a vehicle restraint system and at least one item of
street furniture;
and a pre-fabricated extension module for use in the system; and to a method
of
installing both a vehicle restraint system and at least one item of street
furniture.
Background of the Invention
It has been known for many decades to install crash barriers (now known as
"vehicle
restraint systems") along the outer edge of motorway carriageways and along
the
central reservation. Such vehicle restraint systems are also used on many non-
motorway routes.
s Methods and systems for installing a vehicle restraint system ("VRS") should
be
distinguished from methods and systems for installing bollards, as the
requirements
and features of the two are very different. With a VRS, the horizontal barrier
(a
substantially continuous metal rail or wire) is mounted on or attached to
uprights ¨ the
spacing between the uprights is too great to be sure that they will prevent a
typical
vehicle (such as an average size saloon car) passing between them. Thus the
presence
of the horizontal barrier is essential to the efficacy of the system. In
contrast, bollard
systems comprise discrete individual bollards mounted close together with an
interval
or spacing between them which is too small to permit the passage of a typical
vehicle.
Thus, with bollard systems, typically just one or at most two will be impacted
by the
collision of a single vehicle and thus the bollards themselves must be
robustly
constructed, and filinly anchored, to rcsist the forces of an impact. With a
vehicle
restraint system, the horizontal barrier itself serves to dissipate the force
of an impact
to a large extent, and typically to spread the force of the impact among two
or more
uprights. As a result the upright support posts can be much less robustly
constructed
than bollards. In addition, bollards are typically used in comparatively small
installations (perhaps up to a few tens of metres) whilst vehicle restraint
systems may
run. for tens of kilometres ¨ thus the cost considerations in each instance
are very
different.
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There are many different vehicle restraint systems in use, which differ to
some extent
in design and dimensions, but they are all generally similar and intended to
prevent
vehicles from crossing from one carriageway to the other, or to prevent
vehicles from
colliding with, or entering, roadside hazards.
A vehicle restraint system typically comprises a horizontal steel member,
attached to a
plurality of vertical steel support posts which are positioned at intervals.
Each support
post must be stably anchored, in order to resist impact in the event of a
vehicle
to crashing into the crash barrier.
Currently there are three ways most commonly used in the UK to anchor vehicle
restraint system support posts. These are: (i) "driven post"; (ii) "excavated
foundation"; and (iii) "surface-mounted post".
In the 'driven post' technique, the support post is simply driven into the
ground,
typically to a depth of 1 to 1.5 metres. This technique is cheap and easy and
probably
that which is most often employed. However, it requires that the ground is
soft
enough to drive in the post but hard enough to provide adequate support, and
that
zu there are no services (e.g. electric cables, drains, sewers, gas or
water pipes) or other
obstacles buried beneath the relevant location. If the driven post technique
is not
suitable, one of the other methods must be used. In particular, these do not
require
penetration into the ground to such a great depth. In the "excavated
foundation"
technique, a hole (of variable size) is dug, and the support post embedded in
a
concrete foundation formed in the excavated hole (with or without a metal
socket
therein to accommodate the post). The excavated hole is usually at least 600
mm
deep and typically 800-1000 mm deep to accommodate a support post and anchor
it
adequately. In other circumstances it may be necessary to use a surface-
mounted
post. Typically, in this method, the support post is welded to a steel cradle,
which in
turn is bolted to holes in a concrete surface, the holes being filled with a
synthetic
resin which cures to fittnly anchor the cradle and attached post to the
surface.
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Whatever technique is used to anchor the support post, the 'strength' of
anchoring
must pass the associated "push test" ¨ there are principally two tests, using
a force of
either 6 kiloNewtons or 9 kiloNewtons applied to the post (laterally, in the
same
direction that a vehicle would impact the post). The amount of 'give' in the
post must
be less than a particular threshold.
The various methods of anchoring posts all suffer from a variety of
disadvantages.
One very significant disadvantage is a lack of certainty regarding the
suitability of a
particular post-anchoring technique for a particular location, which makes
planning
very difficult. In particular because the characteristics of the ground, in
which the
posts are to be anchored, cannot be predicted in advance, and will tend to
vary along
the length of a road construction project, it is not possible to predict what
type of
anchor, (and, for example, what size of excavation) will be required to meet
the push
test criteria, without a needless over-specification of the anchor, which of
course adds
unnecessarily to the cost of the project.
Another disadvantage may often be a lack of "serviceability". If a post is
damaged in
a collision, it can often be quite difficult to replace it, and repairs are
thus quite
complex.
21)
A further problem is that the speed of installation of the posts (especially
if using a
technique other than the "driven post") can be rather slow.
GB 2000852.0 (unpublished at date of filing of the present application)
discloses a
modular, pre-fabricated concrete foundation for installing a vehicle restraint
system,
which is aimed at overcoming or ameliorating some of the aforementioned
problems.
The present invention concerns, inter alia, improvements to and/or
modifications of,
the modular foundation described in GB 2000852Ø A copy of GB 2000852.0 is
attached hereto as an annex.
Summary of the Invention
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In a first aspect, the invention provides a pre-fabricated modular system for
installation of both a vehicle restraint system and at least one item of
street furniture;
the system comprising at least one pre-fabricated foundation module comprising
a
plurality of attachment points for securely attaching a vehicle restraint
system to the
foundation module; and at least one pre-fabricated extension module, which
comprises one or more attachment points for securely attaching at least one
item of
street furniture to the extension module; and wherein the extension module is
adapted
and configured to engage with the foundation module.
to In a second aspect the invention provides a pre-fabricated extension
module,
comprising one or more attachment points for securely attaching at least one
item of
street furniture to the extension module, the extension module being adapted
and
configured to engage with a pre- fabricated foundation for a vehicle restraint
system.
The pre-fabricated foundation module is preferably of the sort disclosed in GB
2582430, but this is not essential.
The precise nature of the engagement between the foundation module and the
extension module is not critical to the invention. However, it is important
that the
zo engagement is of sufficient extent and dimension such that the extension
module
benefits from the inertia and rigidity of the foundation module. In this way,
the
effective inertia and rigidity of the extension module is increased and, as a
result, the
mass and dimensions of the extension module can be reduced compared to those
which would be required if the extension module were a "stand alone" footing
for the
item of street furniture. Generally speaking, the extension module will thus
be less
massive than the foundation module.
In some embodiments, the foundation module will be installed first, and the
extension
module will be installed overlying the foundation module. In other
embodiments, this
arrangement will be reversed and the foundation module will overlie the
extension
module. In yet other embodiments, the extension module may be installed at one
end
of a foundation module, or between the ends of adjacent foundation modules.
Desirably, the foundation module and the extension module will comprise
cooperating
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surfaces, such that the respective modules can be positioned on, beneath,
around or
abutting one another in frictional engagement.
As one example, the foundation module may be formed with a plurality of
apertures
and the extension module may be formed with a raised portion of suitable shape
and
dimension such that the raised portion is partially or wholly received within
an
aperture in an overlying foundation module; or, conversely, the extension
module may
be formed with a downwardly projecting portion such that, when the extension
module is installed overlying a foundation module, the downwardly projecting
portion
io of the extension module is partially or wholly received within an
aperture in the
underlying foundation module. Additionally or alternatively, the foundation
and
extension modules may be provided with respective cooperating grooves and
ridges
which engage one another when the modules are installed.
In a third aspect, the invention provides a prefabricated foundation module
for use in
installation of both a vehicle restraint system and at least one item of
street furniture,
the module comprising a plurality of attachment points for securely attaching
a
vehicle restraint system to the foundation module, and one or more attachment
points
for securely attaching at least one item of street furniture to the foundation
module.
In the module of the third aspect, the plurality of attachment points for
securely
attaching a vehicle restraint system will conveniently be aligned, typically
at or near
the centre line of the module. The street furniture attachment point or points
will
desirably be set to one side of the aligned vehicle restraint system
attachment points
so that, in use, the item or items of street furniture will be behind the
vehicle restraint
system relative to a vehicle passing along the carriageway so that, in
general, a
vehicle cannot impact the street furniture without first colliding with the
vehicle
restraint system, which collision will absorb some of the kinetic energy of
the vehicle.
The item of street furniture to be attached to the foundation module, or
extension
module, as the case may be, will most commonly be a lighting column for a
street
light, but any item of street furniture can be attached. Examples include
direction
signs, road signs, warning signs, traffic cameras, traffic lights and signals,
emergency
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telephones, supports for overhead gantries, safety fencing, acoustic damping
fencing,
and so on.
The foundation module, or extension module, as the case may be, may comprise a
plurality of street furniture attachment points. These may be identical, so as
to provide
a plurality of alternative positions for a single item of street furniture.
Alternatively,
the arrangement can provide for attachment of multiple units of an identical
item of
street furniture. Yet a further possibility is the incorporation in the
foundation module,
or extension module, as the case may be, of multiple attachment points of
different
io types, to permit the attachment of different types of street furniture
to the module. For
example, a single foundation or extension module may permit the attachment of
both
a lighting column and a fence. A convenient type of attachment point for use
on the
foundation module or extension module, as the case may be, is a NAL socket,
which
is widely used for the attachment and mounting of street furniture items.
Yet more flexibility can be present in the system. For example, each
foundation
module may have only one site which can be occupied by a single extension
module
so as to engage with the foundation module. Alternatively, each foundation
module
could be provided with a plurality of sites, each of which could be occupied
by a
zu extension module. This allows a single extension module to be located at
one of
several different sites on the foundation module, offering a degree of choice
where the
extension module, and hence the item of street furniture to be attached to the
extension module, is positioned. Alternatively, two or more extension modules
could
occupy respective engagement sites on a single foundation module thus
permitting,
for example, the attachment of one item to two different, spatially separated,
extension modules (which may be desirable for greater strength and rigidity),
or the
attachment of two or more items of street furniture (which may be the same or
different to one another) within the length of verge or central reservation
taken up by
a single foundation module.
Desirably the foundation module consists, or is predominantly formed of,
concrete.
The concrete may preferably comprise metal reinforcement. Preferred metal
(e.g.
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steel) reinforcement will comprise a plurality of metal rods running along the
long
axis of the foundation module. If desired, one or more further transverse
metal
reinforcement rods may be provided, substantially at a right angle to the long
axis of
the foundation module.
In typical embodiments the foundation module will comprise a substantially
rectilinear shape, similar to a concrete beam. Each modular section of
foundation
module will normally be essentially identical and, in practice, a plurality of
such
modules will be laid end to end to achieve the desired length of run of
foundation
module. The precise dimensions of the foundation modules are not critical, but
a
typical embodiment of the invention may be 6 to 8 metres in length, about 800
to
1200 mm wide and 200 to 400 mm in height.
The foundation module will, in use, generally be located in a shallow trench.
The
is depth of the trench will advantageously be less than the depth
reached by the bottom
of a support post driven into the ground in the "driven post" technique, and
will be
less than the depth of excavation normally required for the "excavated
foundation"
technique. Conveniently the trench will be 150-250mm deep, preferably about
200mm deep. In this way, a benefit of the invention is that such a relatively
shallow
zo trench is less likely to impact on buried services, and the
person skilled in the art will
have more freedom in deciding where to position the vehicle restraint system.
The
strength and inertia of the foundation module is such that a relatively
shallow trench is
sufficient to provide adequate anchorage. Indeed, in extremis (and typically
only for
temporary installations) it may be possible for the foundation module to be
used
25 above ground, without any trench.
It is highly preferred that the foundation module is perforated or aperture,
as
explained below.
30 There is a considerable variety of commercially available vehicle
restraint systems,
and these will typically dictate the interval between attachment points on the
foundation module. For example, one system in widespread use has support posts
located 1600 or 3200 mm apart, depending on the rigidity required in the
system,
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whilst another commonly-used system has support posts at intervals of 2000mm;
and
the interval between attachment points on the foundation module of the
invention may
preferably correspond to one of these commonly-used distances, but other
embodiments with different intervals, for use with other vehicle restraint
systems, are
perfectly feasible and envisaged in the present invention.
In one embodiment, the foundation module resembles a ladder, with transverse
portions or "rungs" at regular fixed intervals across the foundation module
where the
attachment points are provided. The foundation module between the rungs is
to apertured or perforated, typically with one aperture or perforation
between each pair
of adjacent "rungs". The apertures or perforations are conveniently positioned
along
the centre line of the foundation module. Advantageously the apertures or
perforations extend over more than half of the separation between adjacent
attachment
points.
One purpose of the apertures or perforations in the foundation module is to
facilitate
access to any services which might be locatable or located beneath the
foundation
module, thereby fairly readily permitting inspection, maintenance or repair of
the
services as required. Another purpose of the apertures or perforations is to
facilitate
drainage of rain water and the like. In order to facilitate access to
underlying services,
it is highly preferred that any metal reinforcing components present in the
foundation
module do not extend into the apertures or perforations. For this reason, the
use of
reinforcing mesh or grids is preferably avoided, and instead reinforcing bars
or rods,
which can be offset beyond the side of the apertured portions of the
foundation
module, are advantageous.
However, it may be preferable that some or all of the apertures are provided
with a
mesh, typically made of steel, which is removably located within the
apertures. Such
mesh is to be distinguished from the structural reinforcing elements which are
embedded within the concrete of the foundation module and cannot be removed
therefrom. The purpose of the removable mesh is to permit the passage of
rainwater
or other fluids through the apertures, whilst preventing the ingress of soil,
leaves or
the like. Water or other fluid passing through the apertures may enter a
drainage
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channel provided in an optional conduit unit described below. The removable
mesh
may be secured within the apertures by releasable attachment means, such as
screws,
clips or the like. The mesh may be removed to facilitate access to services
located
beneath the foundation module.
The exact type of attachment point provided on the foundation module is not
critical
to the present invention, and several different designs of attachment point
can be
envisaged. (Equally, the type of attachment points provided on the extension
modules
is not critical to performance of the invention.) Generally, however, each
attachment
a) point on the foundation module facilitates the secure anchoring
of a (substantially
vertical) support post for a VRS barrier. The attachment points on the
foundation
module are desirably predetermined, and conveniently are at a fixed, and
preferably
regular, interval along the foundation module. It is a highly preferred
feature of the
invention that the support post, once attached to the foundation module, is
sufficiently
firmly anchored that it will be guaranteed to meet the 6 kiloNewton or 9
kiloNewton
push test, as appropriate. The inventor had found that, in tests, the support
post will
typically deform rather than the foundation module moving.
In this way, using the pre-fabricated foundation module of the invention, a
planner
planning the construction of a road can know in advance, with certainty, that
the
specified support posts for a vehicle restraint system will, when in position,
pass the
appropriate anchor push test. Further, it avoids any need to test the
conditions of the
ground along the edge of the carriageway to ascertain what type of post anchor
would
be suitable.
In order to provide the necessary anchoring capability for the support posts,
the
foundation module of the invention can readily be designed with sufficient
rigidity
and mass/inertia. The requirements for these parameters will depend on the
manner in
which the pre-fabricated foundation module is to be used, and the location of
its
deployment. It is envisaged therefore that, in practice, a range of pre-
fabricated
foundation modules may be produced with different dimensions and mass, such
that a
skilled person planning a road construction can select those pre-fabricated
foundation
modules which are most appropriate for the particular construction. Thus, for
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example, bigger and more massive pre-fabricated foundation modules may be
appropriate if the foundation modules are to be surface-exposed and/or used on
ground of relatively low resistance; whilst smaller and less massive pre-
fabricated
foundation modules may be appropriate for situations in which the foundation
module
will be sited within a trench which is back-filled to a significant extent.
Other advantages stemming from the invention may include:
(a) increased speed of installation ¨ the foundation modules can be rapidly
installed, there is no need to conduct ground testing, and generally less need
to
perform any excavation by hand (which slows down the rate of construction);
(b) increased flexibility ¨ as the foundation module does not need to be
positioned
as deep as driven posts, there is less risk of damage to underlying services
during
installation of the vehicle restraint system, and less likelihood of
underground
is obstructions interfering with the preferred siting of the support posts;
(c) increased reliability ¨ the support post positions are predetermined by
the
attachment points on the foundation module, leaving less chance of error by
workmen
on site;
(d) reusability ¨ the foundation module can be easily dug up and re-used
e.g. if
utilised on a temporary construction site or if a carriageway is re-routed,
and
especially in view of the modular nature of the foundation module, one or more
sections of foundation module can be easily replaced (e.g. if damaged);
(e) increased ease of access to services located beneath the vehicle
restraint
system, due to the perforated or aperture nature of the preferred foundation
module;
(f) reduced verge requirement ¨ currently, due to health and safety
considerations,
it is standard practice in the industry to avoid installing driven posts, or
machine-
excavated foundations, within 1000 mm of underground services ¨ as a result, a
great
width of verge is required to install both services and vehicle restraint
systems whilst
allowing for the 1000 mm separation between the two. In contrast, the present
system
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potentially allows for the vehicle restraint system to overlie any services
with far less
risk than conventional installation techniques, such that a narrower verge can
be used;
and
(g) increased compliance with Highway Construction Details ("HCD") ¨ there
is,
in principle, a requirement that any concrete used in the installation of the
vehicle
restraint system should be allowed to cure for 28 days before the road is
opened to
traffic. In practice this is frequently disregarded, but the use of a pre-
fabricated
concrete foundation module allows the regulation to be observed.
In one embodiment, each attachment point on the foundation module comprises a
socket formed in, and optionally through, the foundation module, such that a
support
post may be passed into, and preferably through, the foundation module. The
support
post will typically extend about 300 to 500 mm below the foundation module,
preferably 250 to 350 mm. If desired, the socket may be provided with a sleeve
or
liner, which may optionally be removable from the foundation module. The
sleeve or
liner is conveniently formed of metal such as steel.
In one embodiment, the sleeve or liner is dimensioned so as to be received
snugly
zo within the socket formed in the foundation module, but may extend beneath
the
foundation module by a length (e.g. 100-500 mm) suitable to accommodate a
bottom
part of a support post. The sleeve or liner may project above the foundation
module
by an amount e.g. in the range 0-50 mm. The sleeve or liner, if formed as a
separate
component, removable from the foundation module, may possess a small flange
portion or collar, extending around the upper surface about the socket, so as
to help
retain the sleeve or liner in a desired positon relative to the foundation
module.
In some embodiments the sleeve or liner may desirably be formed with a
pointed,
conical, or generally tapered or wedge-shaped lower end, to facilitate
insertion into
the ground beneath the foundation module.
The sockets formed in the foundation module may, in preferred embodiments,
take
the form of generally cylindrical apertures through the foundation module
which, in
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cross-section, may typically be circular or, more desirably square or
rectangular in
section. The most convenient shape is a rectangular section cylinder, which
conforms
to the shape and dimensions of commonly-used support posts (e.g. a 'Z'
¨section
support post, although other commonly used support posts are formed with an
'H' or
s 'I' ¨shaped section; any of these can be accommodated by suitably shaped and
dimensioned sockets in the foundation module).
In other embodiments, the foundation module may comprise a plurality of
sockets,
with or without metal sleeves or liners, and the support posts do not
necessarily
o extend beneath the foundation module.
In such embodiments, the foundation module may conveniently be of increased
dimension in depth around the sockets, compared to the majority of the
foundation
module, so as to enhance the rigidity of the foundation module around the
sockets, the
is better to resist any force imposed as a result of a vehicle colliding
with the vehicle
restraint system. In addition, it may be advantageous to provide each socket
with at
least one drain hole, so that rain or other water cannot accumulate in the
socket and
facilitate corrosion or other degradation of a fence post within the socket.
20 In some embodiments, one or more sockets in the foundation module may be
provided with retaining means for retaining a support post within the socket.
The
retaining means is preferably readily releasable so that a support post
retained in the
socket can be readily removed if desired. In this way, if a support post is
damaged
(e.g. as a result of a vehicle colliding with the post or barrier), it may
readily be
25 replaced with a new support post. In one embodiment, the plurality of
sockets in the
foundation module are each formed with a pair of bores in the walls thereof,
one on
each side of the socket, which are aligned. In use a retaining bolt or pin
(e.g made of
steel) is inserted into one of the bores in the socket wall, and then passed
through a
corresponding pre-formed hole towards or near the base of the support post
when the
30 post is inserted into the socket, and thence into the other aligned bore
in the opposite
socket wall. For ease of removal of the retaining bolt or pin, it is
preferable that the
bores extend at least on one side, and desirably on both sides, right through
the
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attachment point to an adjacent aperture. The retaining bolt is preferably
releasably
secured within the socket by a nut or the like.
In another embodiment, each attachment point on the foundation module
substantially
corresponds to a conventional mounting position for a surface-mounted post.
A conventional surface-mounted post is typically formed with an H-shaped base
plate,
the two arms of the 'H' being flattened flange portions with a hole disposed
towards
each end, such that there are four holes in total in the base plate. Four
corresponding
io holes are drilled in the road surface, foundation or other solid surface
on which the
surface-mounted post is to be positioned, and a metal anchor or fixing is
placed in
each of the holes in the solid surface and fixed therein by the curing of a
synthetic
resin. The base plate of the post is then attached to these anchors or fixings
by
positioning metal studs or fasteners, such that each stud or fastener passes
through one
of the holes in the base plate and enters into a strong, screw-threaded
engagement
with a respective one of the metal anchors or fixings in the solid surface.
Accordingly, in embodiments of the invention adapted and configured for use
with
surface-mounted posts, it may be desired for each attachment point to be
provided
with at least one (preferably a plurality) of pre-drilled or otherwise pre-
formed holes,
to indicate the desired position of metal anchors or fixings to be inserted to
anchor the
support post to the foundation module. It is possible however, that at least
some, or
even all, of the holes in the attachment point are not pre-formed but are
introduced in
situ, typically by drilling. The post will then be attached to the foundation
module in
substantially conventional manner by metal studs, fasteners, nuts or other
securing
means which enter into a screw-threaded engagement with the anchors or fixings
already secured in the foundation module.
Indeed, in a preferred embodiment of the invention for use with surface-
mounted type
posts, the (typically metal) anchors or fixings may be already present in the
foundation module as supplied to the construction site. In particular, it may
be
preferred to incorporate the anchors or fixings at the concrete-casting stage
of the
foundation module (i.e. substantially at the outset), which eliminates the
need to drill
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holes into the foundation module, after the concrete has set, to accommodate
the
anchors or fixings.
It will be appreciated that, whilst it is possible that two or more different
types of VRS
attachment point may be present on a single foundation module, it will
generally be
advantageous that a single type of VRS attachment point is present on a single
foundation module.
It is a preferred feature of the invention that opposed ends of the foundation
module
it) are shaped so as to co-operate with the opposed ends of other
foundation modules in
accordance with the invention. In one embodiment, one end of a foundation
module
is shaped to form a male member, and the opposed end of the foundation module
is
reciprocally shaped to form a female member, such that the male member of a
first
foundation module may co-operate with the female member of a second foundation
s module. A convenient selection of male and female members comprises a male
member in the shape of a projecting trapezium or an inverted triangle with the
apex
truncated, and the female member being formed as a reciprocally shaped re-
entrant
trapezium or the re-entrant base of a truncated triangle. More especially, the
opposed
ends are desirably shaped and dimensioned so as to permit a first foundation
module
20 to be moved in a substantially vertical plane relative to a second
foundation module,
but so as to resist lateral (and/or rotational) relative movement in at least
one direction
in a substantially horizontal plane. In this way, a second foundation module
can be
lowered into place, adjacent to, and in co-operating engagement with, a
previously
positioned first foundation module.
Thus, for example, conveniently, once the abutting ends of adjacent foundation
modules have been placed in engagement, the foundation modules may be
separated
by lifting one or other of the foundation modules in a substantially vertical
plane, but
the foundation modules cannot be separated by relative horizontal movement in
a
transverse direction at right angles to the long axis of the foundation
module. Where
the first and second foundation modules engage with an interlocking (e.g.
dovetail)
engagement, the foundation modules will resist relative movement in any
direction in
a horizontal plane. In other simpler embodiments, relative movement in a
horizontal
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plane generally along the long axis of the foundation modules may still be
permitted,
but transverse movement generally at right angles to be the long axis of the
foundation modules is resisted. Such an embodiment thus permits a first
foundation
module to be connected to a second foundation module by relative horizontal
movement thereof along the long axis of the aligned foundation modules, or by
relative vertical movement of the two aligned foundation modules.
In yet another embodiment, the ends of adjacent foundation modules are adapted
and
configured so as to allow for at least some relative rotational or pivotal
movement in a
io horizontal plane. As an example of such an embodiment, the
foundation module may
be formed with a projecting male member at one end and a reciprocally shaped
female
recess at the other end, wherein the male member has a curved face, which may
preferably describe a substantial part of a circle. Where the male member is
semi-
circular or describes less than half of a circular arc, and the female recess
is
reciprocally shaped and is a semi-circular recess or describes less than half
of a
circular arc, then the opposed male and female ends of adjacent foundation
modules
can be engaged and disengaged by simple relative longitudinal movement,
pushing
the two foundation modules together to engage, or pulling them apart to
disengage.
However, if desired, the foundation modules may be formed with a projecting
male
member which describes an arc of more than 180 of a circle (e.g. 220-2700),
and the
reciprocal female recess similarly describes an arc of greater than 1800. In
such an
embodiment, there is an interlocking engagement between the male member and
female recess, such that the opposed ends of adjacent foundation modules
cannot be
engaged or disengaged by simple relative longitudinal movement in a horizontal
plane, but can be engaged or disengaged by relative vertical displacement.
In such embodiments as described in the preceding paragraphs, one or both ends
of
the foundation module are preferably formed with an angled shoulder portion,
which
permits a greater angle of relative rotational or pivotal movement between
adjacent,
engaged foundation modules.
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It will be apparent that, in embodiments of the invention which allow for some
limited
relative rotational or pivotal movement of adjacent foundation modules,
adjacent
foundation modules can be engaged with one another (e.g. by relative vertical
displacement, sliding or dropping one foundation module into engagement with
its
neighbour), and rotated through a desired angle to impart a desired change of
direction or 'kink' in a run of foundation modules.
It will also be apparent to those skilled in the art that, in embodiments of
the invention
in which an extension module is adapted and configured to be positioned
between,
to and engage with, the end portions of respective foundation
modules, the various
shapes and geometries described above in relation to foundation modules can be
adopted in, or mirrored by, corresponding or co-operating surfaces of the
extension
module, as necessary, to allow the extension module to engage with the
foundation
module.
In addition, or as an alternative, to the aforementioned shaped co-operating
ends of
adjacent foundation modules, in some embodiments the foundation module may be
provided with connecting means, which functions to connect the opposed ends of
adjacent foundation modules. For example, in one embodiment, one or more bores
zo (preferably two) are provided at each end of a foundation
module), which bores are
preferably sufficiently long to communicate with the aperture nearest the end
of the
foundation module. In this way a metal bolt, tie or the like may be inserted
into one
end of a bore, and pass through into an aligned, co-operating bore formed in
the end
of the adjacent foundation module, and secured therein by a nut or other
fastener.
Typically an M24 (i.e. 24mm diameter) bolt and associated nut is suitable for
this
purpose. M24 bolts are readily available commercially in lengths up to about
240mm.
Conveniently a pair of bores is formed at each end of the foundation module.
Notwithstanding the preceding paragraph, in preferred embodiments of the
system
and method of the invention, adjacent foundation modules are held in position
without
requiring the aid of metal fixings between them and without being set in
concrete
footings, which cures about them. Typically the foundation modules are held in
place
primarily by their own weight and by engagement of co-operating shaped ends of
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respective adjacent foundation modules. In like manner, additionally or
alternatively,
in preferred embodiments of the system and method of the invention, one or
more
extension modules are held in position on a foundation module without
requiring the
aid of metal fixings thereto and without being set in a concrete footing which
cures
s about it. Typically the extension module is held in place by the weight
of the
foundation module and by engagement of co-operating shaped portions of the
extension module(s) and foundation module which engage with one another.
In preferred embodiments, the ends of the foundation module are made, and/or
the
to foundation modules positioned, in such a way as to allow for thermal
expansion and
contraction of the foundation module. For example, for a foundation module
substantially consisting of concrete, an 8000mm long foundation module might
be
expected to extend or contract in length by up to 4mm.
is Generally the ends of the foundation module will be perpendicular to the
long axis of
the foundation module. However it may be convenient for some foundation
modules
to have at least one end which is at an angle of e.g. between 5 and 40 degrees
to the
long axis of the foundation module, where the foundation module is to be
installed
along a curved section of carriageway. It will be apparent that, if desired,
both
zo opposed ends of the foundation module may be set at an angle to the long
axis of
other than 90 . This angle may be the same at both ends, or may be different.
Equally,
an extension module for use in the invention may be provided with opposed ends
which may not be parallel to one another (e.g. at an angle of between 5 and 40
).
zs It may be desirable, in some embodiments, for the foundation module of
the invention
to be held in place by bracing means. This may be especially desirable where
the
ground is insufficiently stable to provide adequate support for the foundation
module
and/or where the foundation module is to be installed on a narrow verge at a
roadside.
The bracing means may, for example, comprise a stake or post, typically of
metal (e.g.
30 steel) which is driven into the ground. The bracing means might act on a
front or rear
edge of the foundation module. Additionally or alternatively the foundation
module
may be provided with one or more bracing holes (e.g. formed in the transverse
portions and/or at the end regions of the foundation module), through which a
bracing
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stake or post may be driven. The bracing means may advantageously be secured
in
place by concrete, or the bracing means may be provided with a welded plate,
flange
or collar which can be attached to the foundation module by a conventional
"surface
mounted" technique, of the sort already described elsewhere. In one
embodiment, the
foundation module is formed with one or more bracing holes of 120 x 50mm
dimension, which accommodate a widely-used metal post acting as a bracing
means.
As will be apparent, the system of the present invention further typically
comprises an
extension module adapted and configured to engage with the foundation module.
The
to foundation module provides a footing for one or more items of
street furniture. The
item of street furniture may include, but is not limited to, one of the
following: a street
light, a road sign, and emergency telephone, a yardage counter, a light for a
road sign.
The extension module will preferably be substantially formed of concrete,
optionally
Is reinforced concrete. The extension module will comprise a
suitable attachment point
or anchorage for the relevant item of street furniture. In a typical
embodiment the
extension module will comprise an NAL-socket, which is widely used as an
anchor
for various items of street furniture.
2u The system of the invention allows for the substantially
simultaneous installation of
both a vehicle restraint system and one or more items of street furniture,
since the
footings and attachment points for both the VRS and the street furniture can
be
positioned and installed in essentially a single operation. This greatly
simplifies
planning and implementation of highway construction projects. For example, a
25 motorway verge or other highway boundary can be completely
simulated or modelled
on a computer in advance of construction, since all of the components required
may
be pre-fabricated with predetermined characteristics (size, strength etc.). In
addition,
the various components may be assembled or disassembled in situ and are
reusable.
Since the components can be installed "in one go" by a single contractor, the
system
30 of the invention avoids the need to coordinate multiple contractors during
the
construction project. In particular, the invention provides for the provision
of
attachment points for multiple independent systems on a single pre-cast
concrete
block.
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Another unique feature of the invention, in preferred embodiments, is as
follows:
conventionally, it is necessary to position a lighting column so as to be
outside the
"working width" of a vehicle restraint system i.e. the lighting column is
beyond the
maximum extent of deflection of the crash barrier (in the event of a vehicle
impacting
the barrier), such that the occupants of the vehicle cannot be harmed by the
lighting
column. With the present invention, a combined crash barrier/lighting column
unit can
be investigated in a test impact to demonstrate that a lighting column,
possibly within
the "working width" of the crash barrier, will not harm the occupants of an
impacting
vehicle. As a result of such tests, using standardised components, it will be
possible to
position lighting columns (or other items of street furniture) within the
working width
of a crash barrier, and thereby reduce the width of the verge or otherwise
reduce the
width required to install the street furniture.
is In a fourth aspect, the invention provides a method of installing a
vehicle restraint
system and at least one item of street furniture, the method comprising the
steps of:
(a) positioning a selected prefabricated foundation module, as previously
defined
above, at a desired location;
(b) attaching at least one VRS support post to an attachment point on the
foundation
module;
(c) providing at least one attachment point for attaching an item of street
furniture,
said street furniture attachment point being present either on the foundation
module,
or on an extension module, which extension module, if present, is positioned
in
engagement with the foundation module.
The method will generally further comprise the step (d) of attaching a VRS
barrier to
the support post. Preferably a plurality of support posts will be attached to
the
foundation module, and typically a plurality of foundation modules will be
deployed,
each having a plurality of support posts attached thereto.
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The method will also typically further comprise the step (e) of attaching an
item of
street furniture to the street furniture attachment point.
In those embodiments of the invention in which an extension module is
utilised, the
extension module will be positioned in engagement with one or more foundation
modules. The sequence in which the various modules are positioned will depend
on
the characteristics of the embodiment employed. Thus, for example, foundation
modules may be positioned initially, and one or more extension modules
subsequently
deployed on top of the foundation modules, or this sequence may be reversed.
In
to those embodiments in which an extension module is deployed between
neighbouring
foundation modules, will normally be desirable for one of the foundation
modules to
be deployed first, followed by the extension module, and then the second
foundation
module. However, in principle, this sequence can be varied (for example, the
two
foundation modules could be deployed initially, followed by installation the
extension
module therebetween; or the extension module could be deployed initially,
followed
by the deployment of a respective foundation module on either side of the
extension
module). In any event, it is a feature of such embodiments that the extension
module
is adapted and configured so as to engage with at least one foundation module.
The method may also advantageously comprise an initial step of excavating a
trench
of length and width suitable to accommodate one or more of the selected pre-
fabricated foundation modules. Desirably the trench is dug by machine. The
depth of
the trench may depend on several factors, including, for example: the depth
below
ground level of any underlying services (such as drains, sewers, electric
cables or gas
pipes); communication cables or hard ground. Typically the trench will be 150-
250mm in depth.
It will be appreciated that the method of the invention will normally involve
positioning a plurality of foundation modules, most or all of which will be of
substantially identical design and construction. Desirably the end of one
foundation
module will be shaped and dimensioned so as to engage with the opposed end of
another foundation module, such that the step of positioning the foundation
modules
may involve placing adjacent foundation modules into engagement or even
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interlocking relationship with one another. Optionally, in addition, or as an
alternative, to the aforementioned engagement, connecting means such as metal
bolts
or ties may be inserted into bores provided at the ends of adjacent foundation
modules, and secured with nuts or other fasteners, the bores of adjacent
foundation
modules being aligned to receive the bolts.
If any preliminary excavation has been required, some or all of the spoil may
be back-
filled onto the foundation module once the support posts have been anchored to
the
foundation module. This back-filling may be performed before or after the
vehicle
restraint member/crash barrier has been attached to the support posts.
In some embodiments, the top of the foundation module when installed may be
slightly below the level of the surface of the carriageway, such that surface
water on
the carriageway may be readily drained onto the foundation module and then
pass
through the apertures therein. In other embodiments, the top of the foundation
module when installed may be substantially level with the surface of the
carriageway.
In still other embodiments, when installed the top of the foundation module
may be
above the surface of the carriageway, typically about 100-125mm above the
surface of
the carriageway. This arrangement has the advantage that the foundation module
may
zo form a kerb or edging to the carriageway. However, the side wall of the
foundation
module may then tend to prevent drainage of surface water from the carriageway
onto
the verge and/or onto the foundation module. To avoid this, the side wall of
the
foundation module may be provided with one or more drainage gaps to allow
water
from the carriageway to drain into the foundation module.
In some embodiments, the foundation module may be mounted or positioned on an
underlying conduit unit. The conduit unit may be a separate pre-fabricated
component, or may form an integral sub-component of the foundation module. The
conduit unit is conveniently formed of concrete. It is preferred that the
conduit is
separate from the foundation module, as this aids removal of the foundation
module
and the conduit unit in the event that access is required to the services etc.
located
beneath the conduit unit. The conduit unit may be provided in sections of the
same
length as the foundation module, or may be different (longer or shorter than
the
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foundation module). In one particular embodiment, the conduit unit is provided
in
pre-fabricated lengths of 2 metres or so (e.g. substantially shorter than the
foundation
module) in order to facilitate removal of one or two selected individual
conduit units
if desired.
In a preferred embodiment the conduit unit has a cross-section resembling
adjacent,
conjoined, letters "n" and "u", such that the conduit unit substantially
possesses
rotational symmetry of order 2 about its long axis.
The "n" shaped part of the conduit unit may form a protective arch over
services, laid
beneath the conduit unit. The services may comprise, for example, electrical
cables,
gas pipes and the like.
The "u" shaped part of the conduit unit may form a drainage channel to drain
away
surface water which falls onto the structure or which drains onto the
structure from
the surface of the carriageway.
In some embodiments the foundation module and the conduit unit are provided as
separate components. In this event, it is desirable that positioning guide
means is
provided on one or both units to assist in placing the foundation module in a
desired
position relative to the conduit unit. An example of such positioning guide
means is
to have co-operating surfaces formed on the foundation module and conduit
unit,
which guide means are formed with a stepped profile, e.g. a profile on the
upper edge
of a conduit unit which co-operates with a reciprocally stepped profile on the
bottom
edges of the foundation module.
In other embodiments, the foundation module and conduit unit may form a single
integrated component. For example, they may be cast ab in/ti as a single
component
in concrete, or they may be cast separately but assembled together after
manufacture
for delivery onsite as a single, pre-assembled component.
As noted above, an advantage of the foundation module of the invention is that
it is
reusable. Accordingly in some methods in accordance with the invention, there
may
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be a preliminary step of obtaining the selected pre-fabricated foundation
module by
digging up and/or repositioning a previously deployed foundation module. For
example, where a foundation module has been deployed to support a vehicle
restraint
at a temporary site, the foundation module may subsequently be reused at a
second or
further location.
The fabrication of the foundation module may be achieved by essentially
conventional
manufacturing techniques known in the industry, but with minor adaptations
suitable
for the invention. Thus, for example, a concrete foundation module in
accordance
with the invention may be made by pouring concrete into the mould cavity space
of a
metal mould of the desired size and shape. Desirably the wet concrete used is
of
grade ST5 or greater.
Prior to, during, or immediately after, the pouring of the concrete into the
mould
cavity, any desired metal reinforcing components will also be introduced into
the
mould cavity. In some embodiments (especially those intended for use with
conventional surface-mounted posts), metal anchors or fixings will also be
located, at
desired positions, in the mould cavity. A jig is conveniently employed to
ensure
accurate positioning of the metal anchors or fixings, which latter will form
an integral
part of the foundation module once the concrete has set.
The invention will now be further described by way of illustrative example and
with
reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
zs Figure 1A is a plan view of one embodiment of the invention;
Figure 1B is a side elevation of the embodiment shown in Figure 1A, with
additional
accessories;
Figures 1C and 1D are illustrations of the layout of integral steel
reinforcement bars
within one embodiment of the invention, as seen from above (1C) or one side
(1D);
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Figures 2 and 3 are perspective views of a system for installing a vehicle
restraint
system in accordance with the second aspect of the invention;
Figure 4 is a perspective view of a further embodiment of a system for
installing a
vehicle restraint system in accordance with the second aspect of the
invention;
Figures 5A-5C are various views of another embodiment of a foundation module
for
use in a system in accordance with the present invention;
up Figures 6-8 are partial views of various embodiments of a system in
accordance with
an aspect of the invention; and
Figure 9 is a perspective view of a system in accordance with the invention,
in situ,
with an installed VRS and various items of street furniture.
Examples
Example 1
A first embodiment of a foundation module suitable for use in the first or
second
aspects of the invention is shown in plan view in Figure 1A. The apparatus
comprises a pre-fabricated foundation module 2 of reinforced concrete. The
module
is about 8 m long, 1000 mm wide, and 200 mm deep. A first end of the module is
formed with a projecting male member 4, whilst an opposed second end of the
module
2 is formed with a re-entrant female member 6. The male member 4 and the
female
member 6 are reciprocally shaped, so that the male member 4 of a module 2 can
be
received within the female member 6 of another module 2 so as to create an
interlocking engagement, which permits relative movement of the two modules in
a
substantially vertical plane, but resists relative lateral movement in a
substantially
horizontal plane.
The module comprises four attachment points 8-8", which are at a fixed
interval of
2000 mm. Each of the attachment points 8-8¨ comprises an identical socket
through
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the entire depth of the module 2. As best seen in Figure 1B, each socket is
provided
with a removable steel liner or sleeve, locatable within the socket and
extending
beneath the module 2 into the ground below. The socket is of rectangular cross-
section, shaped and dimensioned to receive and retain the liner or sleeve,
which is in
turn shaped and dimensioned to receive the end of a commercially-available Z-
section
support post of common and conventional design.
Each attachment point 8-8" is provided in a respective 'rung' 10-10" across
the
module. Between adjacent rungs 10-10" is a large aperture 12-12" formed in the
cl module. Additional smaller apertures 14,14' are provided towards
opposite ends of
the module. The highly apertured nature of the module facilitates access to,
and
inspection, maintenance or repair of, any services underlying the module 2
when it is
in situ along the edge of a road carriageway.
s In order to use the apparatus, a trench of suitable dimensions is excavated
at the
desired location and the module is lowered into the trench. A steel sleeve or
liner 16
(seen in Figure 1A) is placed in each of attachment points 8-8¨ and driven
into the
ground, and a support post is then inserted into each steel sleeve or liner
16. The
dimensions of the sleeve or liner are such that a widely-used, commercially
available
20 support post may be snugly received within the sleeve or liner 16, so as
to be firmly
anchored by the sleeve and module. The mass and rigidity of the module 2
allows the
support posts to be firmly anchored without driving the posts to the depth of
penetration which would be required in the absence of the module.
25 Once the support posts have been secured to the module, the spoil
excavated in the
digging of the trench may be partially or wholly back-filled on top of the
module 2,
depending on the requirements of the constructor, and the vehicle restraint
harrier or
crash barrier is attached to the anchored support posts by wholly conventional
means
(e.g. nuts and bolts).
In the embodiment illustrated, the sleeve or liner 16 is shaped and
dimensioned so as
to snugly receive a conventional 170 x 49inm 'Z' section post.
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If desired, the foundation module 2 can also be provided with one or more
attachment
points for securely attaching at least one item of street furniture to the
foundation
module. This permits, if desired, the optional omission of an extension module
from
the system of invention.
Figures 1C and 1D illustrate an embodiment generally similar to that
illustrated in
Figures 1A/1B (although shorter, and with fewer 'rungs' 10 and apertures 12),
and
like components are denoted with common reference numerals. The Figures
illustrate
the internal arrangement of the integral steel reinforcing bars provided in
the
I() foundation module. These comprise four parallel pairs of main
bars 3 along the long
axis of the module, which are joined by a plurality of transverse members, of
which a
representative example is denoted by reference numeral 5. The transverse
members
are situated within the 'rungs' 10. All the bars 3, 5 are of conventional H10
size. It is
apparent from the Figures that the reinforcement bars do not protrude into the
apertures 12.
Example 2
Referring to Figure 2, there is illustrated a step in the installation of a
vehicle restraint
system in accordance with the method of the invention. The method comprises
installation of a foundation module 2, of the embodiment shown in Figures lA &
1B,
together with a plurality of vertical support posts 20-20". Each support post
20-20"
is a conventional Z-section steel post, which is received in a respective one
of the
corresponding attachment points 8-8" (shown in Figure 1A) and the associated
sleeve
or liner 16 (shown in Figure 1B).
A conventional horizontal steel crash barrier can then be attached to the
support posts
20-20" by nuts and bolts, the support posts being apertured to permit the
passage of
suitably sized bolts.
A further example illustration of an installation method in accordance with
the
invention is shown in Figure 3. The illustrated example comprises a foundation
module 2. At each of the plurality of attachment points on the module is a
vertical
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support post 20-20". These are anchored to the foundation module 2 via their
integral base plate, of the type used conventionally to anchor a surface-
mounted post.
The support posts 20-20' with welded base plate are anchored to the module 2
by
two-part metal bolts sunk into holes drilled into the foundation module 2. A
bottom
s part or anchor is positioned in the foundation module; and a top part is
passed through
a pre-formed hole in the base plate and into screw-threaded engagement with
the
bottom part or anchor. Conveniently the bottom part or anchors are
incorporated into
the module 2 at the casting stage, which avoids the need for subsequently
drilling
holes into the module, after it has set, to accommodate the anchors. Four two-
part
bolts are used, one at each corner of the base plate, and a liquid synthetic
resin is used
to fill the residual volume. The resin is allowed to cure, such that the base
plates, and
their attached support posts 20-20", are firmly anchored. A conventional 'W'-
section
steel crash barrier 22, is then attached in a substantially horizontal plane
to the
substantially vertical support posts 20-20". Again, the attachment is by use
of
conventional fixings, such as nuts and bolts.
As described in relation to Example 1, the foundation module 2 illustrated in
Figure 3
could be provided with one or more attachment points for securely attaching at
least
one item of street furniture to the foundation module.
It will be noted that the foundation module 2 in Figure 3 differs in certain
details from
the foundation module 2 shown in Figures 1A/1B & 2. One difference is the
absence
of sockets penetrating through the entire depth of the foundation module in
Figure 3.
In addition it can be seen that, because the system in Figure 3 requires the
use of base
zs plates, having a relatively wide base, to attach the vertical support
posts 20 etc., the
transverse members 10 are substantially wider than the corresponding
transverse
members of the module shown in Figures 1A/1B & 2.
Example 3
Figure 4 and illustrates a vehicle restraint system, installed using an
embodiment of a
system in accordance with the invention. The illustrated embodiment is
generally
similar to that shown in Figures 2 and 3, and common reference numerals are
used to
indicate like components.
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Figure 4 shows the system installed in situ along the outer edge of a
carriageway 30.
The foundation module 2 is mounted above a pre-fabricated services conduit
unit 32.
The conduit unit 32 has a cross-section resembling conjoined adjacent letters
"n" and
"u", such that the conduit unit substantially possesses rotational symmetry of
order 2
about its long axis. The conduit unit is conveniently formed of concrete.
The "n" shaped part 34 of the conduit unit 32 forms a protective arch over
services 36,
laid beneath the conduit unit. The services may comprise, for example,
electrical
u) cables, gas pipes and the like.
The "u" shaped part 38 of the conduit unit 32 forms a drainage channel to
drain away
surface water which falls onto the structure or which drains onto the
structure from
the surface of the carriageway 30, which is substantially flush with the top
of the
foundation module 2. In this way, the system can help reduce the build-up of
standing
water on the surface of the carriageway.
One or more of the apertures 12, 14 etc. in the foundation module are provided
with a
metal (e.g. steel) mesh which permits the passage of rain or other
precipitation into
the channel 38, whilst preventing the ingress of soil, leaves and the like
which might
otherwise partially or wholly block the channel 38.
The mesh is not embedded within the concrete of the module 2 but is instead
readily
removable from the module, being attached thereto by releasable attachment
means,
such as screws, clips or the like, or simply resting on a flange or ledge
portion of the
foundation module. The mesh has an array of square holes of about lOmm sides,
and
may be covered by an optional layer of drainage-permitting material such as
20mm
flint filter stone or similar.
In the illustrated embodiment, the prefabricated foundation module 2 and the
prefabricated conduit unit 32 are shown as separate components, the outer
edges of
the conduit unit 32 having a stepped profile which engages with a co-operating
profile
on the outer edges of the module 2. This engagement facilitates alignment of
the
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foundation module 2 with the conduit unit 32 such that the foundation module
can
easily be placed in the desired position relative to the conduit unit.
In other embodiments, the module 2 and conduit unit 32 may form a single
integrated
component. For example, they may be cast ab initio as a single as a single
component
in concrete, or they may be case separately but assembled together after
manufacture
for delivery onsite as a single, pre-assembled component.
Example 4
Figures 5A-5C are various views of a further embodiment of a foundation module
of
use in a system/method in accordance with the invention.
Figure 5A is a perspective view of a pair of foundation modules which are in
an
is interlocking engagement which allows for limited relative rotational or
pivotal
movement of the engaged adjacent foundation modules. Figures 513 and 5C are
plan
views of the engaged portions of the foundation modules, showing that the
engagement allows for limited relative rotational or pivotal movement of the
foundation modules in a horizontal plane.
Where the features shown in Figures 5A-5C are generally equivalent or
correspond to
features shown in other drawings they are indicated with common reference
numerals.
Referring to Figures 5A-5C, two identical foundation modules 2, 2a have ends
adapted and configured so as to allow for at least some relative rotational or
pivotal
movement in a horizontal plane. The foundation modules 2, 2a are each provided
with a projecting male member 4 which has a curved face describing about 260-
2700
of a circular arc. The male member 4 of foundation module 2 is received within
the
reciprocally shaped female recess 6 formed on the end of foundation module 2a.
The
interlocking engagement created by the insertion of male member 4 into the
female
recess 6 prevents engagement and disengagement of the foundation modules 2, 2a
by
simple relative longitudinal movement. Instead, the foundation modules 2, 2a
are
engaged or disengaged by relative vertical displacement.
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As apparent from the Figures, the arrangement allows for some limited relative
rotational or pivotal movement of the two foundation modules 2, 2a in a
horizontal
plane. The angle of rotational movement permitted is increased by the presence
of
angled, sloping shoulder portions 66 either side of the male member 4 and, to
a lesser
extent, by the slightly angled sloping shoulder portions 68 either side of the
female
recess 6.
Example 5
io Referring to Figure 6, a first embodiment of a system in accordance with
the present
invention comprises two prefabricated foundation modules 2, 2', and a
prefabricated
extension module 200. The foundation modules 2, 2' are formed of reinforced
concrete. Each foundation module comprises a plurality of steel rods running
along
the long axis of the module, with further transverse metal rods substantially
at a right
angle to the long axis of the foundation module. Each foundation module
resembles a
ladder, with transverse portions 10 or "rungs" at regular fixed intervals
across the
module, on which the attachment points are provided. Between neighbouring
rungs is
an aperture, such that a plurality of apertures is formed in each foundation
module. In
the illustrated embodiment these apertures are positioned along the of the
module
One purpose of the apertures provided in the foundation module is to
facilitate access
to services located beneath the module, thereby limiting inspection,
maintenance or
repair of the services as required. Another purpose of the apertures is to
facilitate
drainage of rainwater or the like.
The end of the module 2, and the end of the module 2', are shaped and
dimensioned
so as to form a co-operating engagement therebetween, in the absence of the
extension module 200. Each foundation module 2, 2' is substantially
rectilinear and
approximately 6 m in length.
The attachment points on the foundation module may be of any convenient type.
In
the embodiment illustrated, a hole or socket (not shown) is formed or provided
in each
of a plurality of the transverse rungs 10 of the foundation modules. Each hole
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socket is able to receive a substantially vertical support post, to which post
a vehicle
restraint barrier may be attached by conventional means.
The extension module 200 is shaped and dimensioned to fit between, and engage
with, the otherwise adjacent ends of the foundation modules 2, 2'.
Accordingly, in the
illustrated embodiment, one side of the extension module 200 is provided with
a
recess or groove 199 which accommodates a cooperatively shaped projecting
portion
4 on the end of the foundation module 2, and the opposite side of the
extension
module 200 is formed with a projecting portion 201 which is received within a
co-
io operating recess or groove 6 in the end of the foundation module 2'. It
will be
apparent that, in the embodiment illustrated in Figure 6, an extension module
may be
positioned at the end of each foundation module 2. Alternatively, fewer
extension
modules may be employed, such that at some locations neighbouring foundation
modules 2 will directly engage with one another.
In the embodiment shown in Figure 6, the extension module 200 is provided with
a
single attachment point for attachment thereto of a lighting column 208 for a
street
light. The size and shape of the extension module is such that the attachment
point,
and the lighting column attached thereto, may be set back from the vehicle
restraint
barrier by a desired amount. Accordingly, in the event of a vehicle impacting,
and
deforming, the vehicle restraint barrier, the lighting column is set back
sufficiently
such that it will not cause injury to any occupants of the vehicle.
A second embodiment of a system in accordance with the invention is shown in
Figure 7. A third embodiment of a system in accordance with the invention is
shown
in Figure 8. The embodiments are generally similar to that illustrated in
Figure 6 and
like components are denoted by common reference numerals. In Figure 7, the
extension module 200 is formed with a parallel-sided groove in its upper
surface.
When placed in combination with an overlying foundation module 2, the groove
in
the upper surface of the extension module 200 accommodates part of the
foundation
module. In addition, a square or rectangular shaped raised portion 203 at one
end of
the extension module is snugly received within a co-operatively shaped
aperture in the
foundation module. In this way a close-fitting engagement is created between
the
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extension module 200 and the overlying foundation module 2. In the illustrated
embodiment, the extension module 200 has an attachment point for a lighting
column
208 for a street light. The shape of the extension module is such that, when
in situ, is
set back from a vehicle restraint system mounted on the foundation module 2.
It will
also be appreciated that the foundation module comprises a second aperture
which is
co-operatively shaped to engage with extension module 200. As a result, the
extension module 200 can be positioned towards either end of the foundation
module
2; alternatively, two separate (but substantially identical) extension modules
200 may
be positioned in engagement with a single foundation module 2.
Referring to Figure 8, the illustrated embodiment is essentially the reverse
of that
shown in the preceding Figure. Thus, the extension module 200 overlies the
foundation module 2. At one end region of the underside of the extension
module 200
is a square or rectangular downward-projecting portion, which is snugly
received
within a co-operatively shaped aperture formed in the foundation module 2,
such that
the extension module 200 and the foundation module 2 are in a close-fitting
frictional
engagement. In addition, the main body of the extension module 200 butts up in
contact with the exterior surface of the foundation module 2.
zo Example 6
Figure 9 shows a perspective view of a system in accordance with an aspect of
the
invention, in situ along the edge of a carriageway 30, with an installed
vehicle
restraint system 22 together with various installed items of street furniture.
The
system is broadly similar to that shown in Figure 4, and like components are
denoted
by common reference numerals.
The installation system comprises two foundation modules 2, 2' an extension
module
200 located between the two foundation modules 2, 2' and a pre-fabricated
services
conduit unit 32 beneath the foundation module. The conduit unit 32 has a cross-
section resembling conjoined adjacent letters "n" and "u", such that the
conduit unit
substantially possesses rotational symmetry of order 2 about its long axis.
The
conduit unit is conveniently formed of concrete.
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The "n" shaped part 34 of the conduit unit 32 forms a protective arch over
services 36,
laid beneath the conduit unit. The services may comprise, for example,
electrical
cables, gas pipes and the like.
The "u" shaped part 38 of the conduit unit 32 forms a drainage channel to
drain away
surface water which falls onto the structure or which drains onto the
structure from
the surface of the carriageway 30, which is substantially flush with the top
of the
foundation module 2. In this way, the system can help reduce the build-up of
standing
water on the surface of the carriageway.
Each foundation module 2, 2' comprises a plurality of attachment points for
respective support posts 20, to which posts 20 a horizontal steel barrier 22
of a vehicle
restraint system (VRS) is attached. In addition to the VRS attachment points,
the
foundation modules 2, 2' comprise a plurality of further attachment points to
which
is various items of street furniture are attached. These items of street
furniture include a
pedestrian safety fence 202, a yardage counter 204, and an acoustic damping
fence
206. These items of street furniture are all on the far side of the vehicle
restraint
system relative to the carriageway 30. The edge of the foundation modules 2,
2'
nearest to the carriageway 30 is formed with a plurality of drainage
perforations 210,
which permit drainage of surface water from the carriageway 30 into the
drainage
channel of the conduit unit 32.
The extension module 200 is shaped and dimensioned so as to co-operate with
the
respective end portions of the two foundation modules 2, so as to engage with
each
thereof. The extension module 200 has an attachment point for a lighting
column 208.
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