WO2008114261A2

WO2008114261A2 - Fence

Info

Publication number: WO2008114261A2
Application number: PCT/IL2008/000388
Authority: WO
Inventors: Joshua Waldhorn
Original assignee: Joshua Waldhorn
Priority date: 2007-03-19
Filing date: 2008-03-19
Publication date: 2008-09-25
Also published as: IL182026A0; WO2008114261A3

Abstract

The present invention provides a barrier, wherein the barrier is an upwardly immobilized barrier (UIB) comprising a barrier, comprising at least one netting (5) adapted to avoid or hinder penetration of actuated members, and at least one balloon (1) immobilizing the netting from the nettings top portion.

Description

FENCE

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to a fence, more specifically, to an upwardly immobilized barrier and method of preventing passage of actuated members.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Terror attacks on civilian territories or strategic locations are recently common in various places, such as the US, Israel, Iraq etc. for example, at least 14 people have been killed and hundreds injured as a result of Qassam rocket fire at Israeli targets. Various protecting means have been suggested, including anti-effraction panel (EP EPl 422490); anti-aircraft defense; systems for protection of ships against low-altitude air attack means (RU2285632); and RU2218641, which discloses an elongated cumulative explosive charge in envelope, protective unit to absorb fragmentation mass, electric detonator, wires to switch on electric detonator, radio receiver to receive unblanking signal and to activate electric detonator, radio transmitter to send signal to radio receiver, cable box to house wires connected to cores of cable with the aid of taps and unseparable enclosure. A cost-effective and highly useful protecting means adapted to avoid or hinder passage of actuated weapons and other members is still a long felt need.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is hence the object of the present invention to disclose a cost-effective barrier, wherein this barrier is an upwardly immobilized barrier (UIB). The UIB comprises of a barrier, comprising inter alia at least one netting (5) adapted to avoid or hinder penetration of actuated members, and at least one balloon (1) immobilizing said netting from said nettings top portion.

At least one netting is held vertically (i.e., approximately perpendicular to the ground) by at least one balloon. Alternatively or additionally, at least one netting is held horizontally (i.e., approximately in parallel to the ground) by at least one balloon. Similarly, at least one netting may further immobilized to the ground (9) by means of at least one ground anchor (7). The barrier may comprise of at least one frame and at least one netting. The UIB may comprise one or more netting. Those nettings are preferably arranged in an array selected from a group consisting of (/) at least one top netting and at least one lower netting; (H) side-by-side relation; (Hi) multilayered netting; (z^'v) at least one netting is characterized by a main plane being tilted or perpendicular in respect to the main plane of at least one netting or any combination thereof. The UIB may comprise of different nettings. The UIB may be adapted to avoid or hinder penetration of actuated members, wherein those actuated members are of different size or type. Optionally, the actuated members are selected from solids, especially missiles, rockets, airplanes, birds, insects or microorganisms; liquids; aerosols; gases, especially chemical and biological warfare agents, dust, smoke, hazardous vapors, explosive or flammable elements and compositions, oxidizers; physical hazardous, or any combination thereof. The UIB may additionally comprise of one or more ground immobilizers, being e.g., a fixed member or a maneuverable member. This maneuverable member is preferably yet not exclusively selected from a group consisting of one or more vehicles, especially cars, trucks, tanks, armored vehicles, trains, ships or any other marine vessel. The aforesaid netting may comprise of at least one wing-like member adapted to maneuver said netting or said UIB in at least one direction selected from a group consisting of (i) left or right; (H) upward; (/^"/^"/) downward; or a combination of the same. The wing is possibly in either integral or modular connection with one or more of the follows: said balloon; said netting; said ground immobilizer. The wing is possibly an integral portion of at least one segment of the netting; optionally wherein the direction of the wing is controlled by means selected from remote controls, wireless controllers, feedbacked controls, external controllers, integrated controls or a combination of the same. Possibly, the at least one netting is in connection with two or more balloons. This at least one balloon is possibly in connection with two or more nettings.

It is in the scope of the invention wherein an array of UIBs comprising two or more UIBs as defined in any of the above is disclosed. This array is possibly selected from at least one cascade of UIBs, at least one series of UIBs, one or more parallel UIBs or a combination thereof.

It is also in the scope of the invention wherein the UIB is adapted to protect a given territory from projected weapons, especially mortar shells, missiles, rockets, helicopters, gliders, airplanes, airplanes' bombs, artillery or a combination thereof. Possibly and in a non-limiting manner, the territory is selected from a group consisting of urban, industrial, roads, train rails, junctions and highways, borders, strategic locations, airports, marine ports, electric producing plants, electric wiring, hospital, storage facilities or the like. The size, high, type and/or location of the UIB and netting is possibly provided in correlation with the parameters related by the territory, actuated object (e.g., weapon) location, distance from UIB and type. Optionally, the netting is shaped as a tubular member. The UIB is possibly adapted to barrier passage of dust, debris and other hazardous related to location of constriction. Alternatively, the UIB is especially adapted to eliminate fire and smoke risks. Alternatively, the UIB is especially adapted to encapsulated, optionally to further decompose chemical, biological or radiological warfare agents. Alternatively, the UIB is especially adapted to protect airfields from flying birds. Alternatively, the UIB is especially adapted to protect crops from migrating locusts or other either insects or other flowing pathogens.

Optionally, the UIB as defined above is either multi-layered netting or a single layer composed of one or more of the following: (J) passive barrier means; (U) active barrier means; and (Hi) pro-active barrier means. Optionally, at least one netting comprising explosives adapted to neutralize weapons or any other actuated members before, whilst or after penetrating said netting, communicated netting or neighboring netting. Alternatively, at least one netting comprising electrical wiring adapted to neutralize weapons or any other actuated members before, whilst or after penetrating said netting, communicated netting or neighboring netting. Alternatively, at least one netting comprising sonic means adapted to neutralize weapons or any other actuated members before, whilst or after penetrating said netting, communicated netting or neighboring netting. Alternatively, at least one netting comprising biological, chemical, physical and/or mechanical means adapted to neutralize weapons or any other actuated members before, whilst or after penetrating said netting, communicated netting or neighboring netting.

Another object of the invention method of providing a barrier, wherein the barrier is an upwardly immobilized barrier (UIB). This method comprising steps of obtaining at least one barrier, comprising at least one netting (5) adapted to avoid or hinder penetration of actuated members, and at least one balloon (1) immobilizing said netting from said nettings top portion; and, setting said one or more UIBs in a manner that penetration of actuated members is avoided or hindered. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

In order to understand the invention and to see how it may be implemented in practice, a preferred embodiment will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein

Fig. 1 to Fig. 65 schematically illustrates UIBs according to various embodiments of the present invention.

Fig. 66 to Fig. 77 schematically illustrates the calculated results for the blocking of the flight of Palestinian Kassam Type III ground-to-ground missiles being fired toward civilian population centers at the rate of about a few dozen per day at a range of approximately 10 km.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

The following description is provided, alongside all chapters of the present invention, so as to enable any person skilled in the art to make use of said invention and sets forth the best modes contemplated by the inventor of carrying out this invention. Various modifications however, will remain apparent to those skilled in the art, since the generic principles of the present invention have been defined specifically to provide an upwardly immobilized barrier.

Reference is now made to Fig. 1, presenting a barrier (1), held by at least one balloon (1), (e.g., zeppelin) (2) by means of a plurality of anchoring wires (3), possibly isolated by isolators and/or actuated by motors, engines etc (all denoted as 4). The barrier is at least partially comprises of a netting (5) adapted to avoid penetration of actuated members, e.g., missiles, rockets or the like. Optionally, barrier (1) is further immobilized to the ground (9) by means of anchor 7, possibly filled with infilling matter. It is hence in the core of the invention wherein barrier 1 is immobilized by upper anchoring means (here, at least one balloon), so as an upwardly immobilized barrier (UIB, 1) is obtained. The fundamental construction of the UIB is set by at least one balloon, and at least one barrier connected to this one or more balloons.

The term 'balloon' refers hereinafter in a non-limiting manner to any either rigid or non-rigid gas filled balloon, zeppelin, dirigible, airship or buoyant aircraft that can be elevated upwardly and/or steered and propelled through the air. The term refers to rigid airships (for example, Zeppelins) had rigid frames containing multiple, non-pressurized gas cells or balloons to provide lift. Rigid airships did not depend on internal pressure to maintain their shape. The term is also referring to non-rigid airships (blimps) use a pressure level in excess of the surrounding air pressure in order to retain their shape. The term also refers to semirigid airships, like blimps, require internal pressure to maintain their shape, but have extended, usually articulated keel frames running along the bottom of the envelope to distribute suspension loads into the envelope and allow lower envelope pressures. The term also refers to metal-clad airships characterized by being both rigid and non-rigid airships, utilizing a very thin, airtight metal envelope, rather than the usual rubber-coated fabric envelope. The term also refers to hybrid airship is a general term for an aircraft that combines characteristics of heavier-than-air (airplane or helicopter) and lighter than air technology. The balloon of the present invention is adapted to be located at high altitudes, e.g., 2 to 20Km, where wind is hardly blown. By immobilizing the netting to the ground, total fixation of the UIB is provided. Balloons are possibly filled with helium, hot air, hydrogen etc. Alternatively, the balloons are at least partially comprised of a plurality (i.e., one or more) vacuum chambers, compartments segments etc. It is well in the scope of the invention wherein a balloon is comprised of both vacuum chambers and helium, or any combination of the same.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the balloon comprising at least one vacuum chamber, section, compartment, or portion. This vacuum chamber is characterized by an improved lifting capacity in respect to the commercially available balloons, and is considerably safer than the helium or hydrogen balloons. Preferably, yet not exclusively, the vacuum chambers are at least partially made by composite materials, such as materials comprising nylon, fiberglass, carbon, titanium, various resins etc. It is still in the scope of the invention wherein the vacuum pumps are located (i) on ground or (H) on the balloon, wherein the operation of the vacuum is remotely provided by a computerized means.

It is in the scope of the invention wherein at least a portion of the balloon is characterized in a non-limiting manner by a circular cross-section (e.g., round,- oval, parabola etc), polygonal cross-section (rectangular etc), crescent or semi- crescent shapes, star-like shapes or a combination thereof.

The term 'barrier' refers hereinafter in a non-limiting manner to any elevated structure used to obstruct passage in a given direction, anchored to at least one balloon. The term also refers to any device that does or is intended to protect a target from a hazard or threat. The term also refers to a physical boundary stopping large objects from becoming supersonic. The term relates also to any barrier comprises of at least one continuous or non-continuous frame and at least one netting, at least temporarily immobilized by the frame.

The term 'stack' refers hereafter to a set or array of two or more interconnected balloons as defined above. The stack of balloons, according to one embodiment of the invention, comprises a multiple balloons, e.g., balloons with a rectangular cross section, interconnected by various connecting means, such as, for example, any type of cables, straps (e.g., elastic straps), rails, bolts, nets, envelopes, frames, spines, glue, rubber belts, belts, magnets and electromagnets, hooks & loops (Velcro™-like) materials, vacuum connecting means etc. The number of the balloons per each stack is varies as function of the determined e.g., height, weight, size of the fence to be carried. The number is provided either (i) in a predetermined manner, i.e., before erecting the fence's construction or (H) at any time after the erection of the fence's construction. It is further in the scope of the invention wherein the balloons are adapted to the said stack configuration by means of size, shape and composition. Hence for example, balloons with at least partial rectangular shape are especially adapted for such a stack configuration.

The term 'netting' refers hereinafter in a non-limiting manner to any barriering means, especially to netting comprises fibers woven in a grid-like structure. The term also relates to barriers such as sieves, leaches, sifters, colanders, filters, strainers, nets, fences, apertured members, non-apertured members, membranes, semi-permeable or non-permeable sheets or fibers, porosive materials, or any combination thereof. The netting is optionally and in a non- limiting manner composed of materials selected inter alia from a group consisting of polymers, metals and metal alloys, composite materials, foams, inorganic materials, organic materials such as carbohydrates, proteins, silk and silk-like compositions, lipids, or any mixtures thereof. The term is also related to netting being at least partially rigid and/or at least partially flexible; netting being of various degrees of porosity, e.g., continuous netting comprising no porosity (an intact sheet for example), a non-continuous netting comprising about 99.99% porosity or more (e.g., a net), or a combination thereof. Said net is of any shape, size or type. It is either single layered or multilayered. It is characterized by a uniform thickness varies from few microns or less to several centimeters or more. It is constructed homogeneously, heterogeneously or in various segments, some are homogeneous and some are heterogeneous. It is possibly enforced with reinforcing materials, compositions, segments, wiring, or the like. It is colored or comprises data imprinted thereon, such as camouflage, advertisements, artistic features, or the like. The term data relates in a non-limiting manner to text, notes, drawing, video, colors or a combination thereof. The netting is possibly adapted for passive, active and/or proactive activity. It is optionally comprises of additives, selected in a non-limiting manner from biocides, repelling agents, colorants, UV and/or IR blockers. UV absorbers, X-ray blockers, radiation blockers, radar blockers, fillers, modifying agents, perfumes, ion-exchanging means, rubber, elastifyers, enforcing means, electronic warfare, actuating means, propelling means, sensors, detectors, diagnostic means or the like.

The term 'actuated members' refers hereinafter in a non-limiting manner to any object or composition to be at least partially barriered by the aforesaid barrier. This member is either a living organism, such as bacteria, spores, viruses, dust mists, locusts, birds, etc, or non-living members, such as compositions in gas phase and/or, aerosol or liquid phase, such as chemical humidity, vapors, smells, odors, scents, aromas, warfare agents, toxins, smoke, volatiles, hazardous, dust, fine particles, hazardous vapors, explosive or flammable elements and compositions, oxidizers; solid phase, such as warheads or any other damaging part of a projectile weapons; mortar shells, or any low velocities shells fired from muzzle-loading indirect weapons; shells of high-arcing ballistic trajectories, such as low-range tactic missiles, medium range and long-range strategic missiles etc; howitzers, artillery or any other means for large caliber weapons, firing explosive shells or rockets; missiles or any other projectiles propelled as a weapon at a target; aircrafts, such as airplanes, helicopters, gliders etc. The also refers to any physical matter or composition, such as heat, light, especially IR and UV emission, radiation or any process of emitting energy in the form of waves or particles, such as electromagnetic radiation, a stream of photons; gamma radiation, which is high-energy electromagnetic waves; ultraviolet radiation, also known as UV; Infrared radiation, also known as heat; gravitational radiation, a predicted consequence of general relativity; particle radiation, radiation by means of particles that have a rest mass; alpha radiation, composed of the nuclei of helium-4 atoms; beta radiation, consisting of energetic electrons or positrons; neutron radiation etc.

It is in the scope of the invention wherein the UIBs and nettings are provided commercially by trade names of W.J.UIBs and W.J.Saftynets, respectively, moreover, those UIBs are environmental friendly.

It is hence in the core of the invention wherein barrier 1 is immobilized by upper anchoring means (here, at least one balloon), so as an upwardly immobilized barrier (UIB, 1) is obtained. The fundamental construction of the UIB is set by at least one balloon, and at least one barrier connected to this one or more balloons. Reference in now made to figure 2, illustrating an out-of-scale top view of a schematic runway in an airport (201), with one airplane (202) to protect against terrorist missiles or birds. The protection is provided, according to one embodiment of the invention, by means of two sets of networked UIBs on either side. The properties or characteristics of each of the networked UIBs can be different or similar. Hence for example, the height of each barrier is determined by the height of the supporting balloon, by the length of the anchoring wires (3) etc.

It is in the scope of the invention wherein at least a portion of the UIBs are located in the territory to be protected; at least a portion is located outside this territory or a combination of the two. Two or more UIBs or UIB arrays can be obtained in a side-by-side configuration to increase the barrier factor of the system.

Reference is now made to Fig. 3, presenting an out-of-scale side view (left illustration) and rear view (right illustration) of barrier (1), here especially adapted to block a swarm of locusts. For this purpose, netting (5) may be constructed in a manner that the MESH of the netting is high enough to prevent insects (301) passing through. Moreover, the netting may be treated with biocide, especially insecticides and repellents. Reference is still made to figure 4, presenting another embodiment of the present invention, wherein two or more nets are set in one UIB, so as to provide a plurality of MESH sizes. Moreover the nets may be segmented, arranged in as a mosaic, being either continuous or contained one within the other. Also in this embodiment the MESH may be provided diagonally or with horizontal and vertical axes, the netting can be strong and large in its upper portion and vice versa in its lower portion. The physical characteristics may differ such that one portion of the netting is rigid other portions are flexible. For example the upper portion may provide protection against missiles while the lower portion provides protection against birds or other animals. The horizontal or otherwise tilted or umbrella-like UIBs are adapted for protecting a predetermined territory from hazardous, climate conditions and actuating members of any size or type. It is further in the scope of the invention wherein the UIBs and nets are provided in at least reversible connection with weights o immobilizers (302).

Reference is now made to figure 4, illustrating an out-of-scale portion of multi-layered netting (5A-5C). Here for example, one layer is a polymeric or metal support netting, one layer is a flexible continuous sheet, soaked, doped or otherwise containing chemicals e.g., biocides, repellents, black carbon, metal salts, enzymes, diluents etc. A third layer is a filter- like layer adapted to prevent dust and fine particles from passing through the barrier. According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, the multi-layered netting is composed of (ι) passive barrier means; (H) active barrier means; and (///) pro-active barrier means. The passive barrier means is provided by the strength characteristics of the netting, for example the passive barrier is composed of polymeric or metal support netting, aluminum, metal alloys etc. The active barrier is provided by a netting that is doped, soaked or otherwise containing chemicals, explosives, biocides, repellents, black carbon, metal salts, enzymes, diluents etc that react on impact with the object or animal. In this embodiment the pro-active barrier is provided by netting capable of detecting the approach of a foreign body, either a terrorist missile, animal etc. and by feed-backed means actively repel the foreign body before impact with the barrier by any appropriate means, for example, laser, chemical or biocide spray, explosives etc.

It is in the scope of the invention wherein the UIBs are provided as modular segments, replaceable in case that one or more UIBs are in non-functioning conditions. Said replacement is immediate, rapid and cost effective.

Reference is now made to figure 5, schematically representing an out-of-scale side view (left illustration) and a rear view (right illustration) of multi-layered netting. The rear view illustrates three layers of netting, for example a passive barrier, an active barrier and a proactive barrier. In this embodiment the side view illustrates a ....

Reference is now made to figure 6, presenting an out-of-scale schematic side-view of an UIB, presenting a barrier (1), held by at least one balloon (2) by means of a plurality of anchoring wires (3), possibly isolated by isolators (4). The barrier is at least partially comprised of a solid netting (5), so as to prevent the penetration of all matter, In this embodiment for example the barrier may be composed of filter-like material to prevent the penetration of dust and fine particles from passing through the barrier.

Reference is now made to figure 7, presenting an out-of-scale side view of an UIB, with a barrier composed of two types of segmented netting of any size or shape. Here for example the netting in its upper portion is characterized of a first shape of area Al and a lower portion characterized by a second shape of area A2. In this embodiment the two portions are in a ratio of 1 : 1. Here for example the upper portion may provide a proactive barrier means against missiles, while the lower portion may provide a passive barrier against insects or birds. Reference is now made to figure 8, representing the same, wherein the proportion of the two portions of the barrier is 2:1. In this embodiment the upper portion is characterized by a third shape of area A3 and the lower portion is characterized by netting with shape A2.

Reference is now made to figure 9, representing the same, wherein the barrier is made in total with a net characterized by a shape A3. Shape A3 is possibly selected in a non-limiting manner from one or more vents or fans, some may be constructed to allow air to flow throughout the netting aperture, and/or some may be constructed so that activation of the aforesaid vents of fans actuate the UIB to a defined direction.

Reference is now made to figure 10, representing the same, wherein the barrier is composed of 4 segments. In this embodiment there is stratification of the segments, such that segments 1 and 3 are composed of netting of the same type, characterized by shape A4 and segments 2 and 4 are characterized by shape A2.

Reference is now made to figure 11, representing the same, wherein the vertical distance (gap) between the two segmented netting is bigger than the gap provided in figure 10. Moreover, it is in the scope of the invention wherein the two or more nettings are provided in an arrangement comprises of top and bottom nettings. Additionally or alternatively the two or more nettings are in an arrangement comprises of nettings provided in a side-by-side configuration; or in a combination of top-and-bottom and side-by-side configuration.

It is in the scope of the invention wherein UIBs are a flat sheet, as schematically illustrated in figures 1-11; or in any other shape, e.g. curved shape, zigzagged cross section, tubular form etc.

A tubular UIB or equivalent structures are effective for isolating a predetermined territories. Hence for example, macro-climate control is provided for heating, cooling, relative humidity control etc.

It is in the scope of the invention wherein the UIB is further adapted to isolate a given territory from electrical sparks, whether conditions and lightning.

Reference is hence made to figure 12, presenting a perspective out-of-scale view of a tubular UIB comprising a plurality of N balloons, N is and integer number equal or higher 1, here N equals 3, and a tubular nettings (1201). The UIB of Fig. 12 is especially adapted to accommodate or envelop a construction to be either built or diminished. Here, the UIB avoids from fragments of the buildings (1202) construction (1203), stones or dust to pass the netting and contaminate or harm the environment. Reference is now made to figure 13, presenting the tubular UIB as defined above, adapted to fire-control purposes. In this example, the netting (1301) avoids continuous ventilation of the fire (1302), hence facilitating its rapid distinguish. In this embodiment, a wide area (here, trees 1303) is treated. Reference is made now to figure 14, presenting the same fire distinguishing or controlling system, especially adapted to a focused and well targeted area, e.g., fire in one or few buildings (1401).

Reference is now made to figure 15, schematically illustrating an out-of-scale presentation of an UIB adapted to protect marine vessels (1501) form missiles attack. The protection is enabled in deep waters and in marine ports, e.g., by UIBs located at sea-side (1502), and not land-side.

The UIB protecting system is also useful for terrain cases. Hence for example, reference in now made to figure 16, presenting a zoom-out of the eastern and south-western borders of the State of Israel. It is hence in the scope of the present invention wherein an array (e.g., a series-) of UIBs protecting means is provided along the south-western border (Fig. 17) and eastern (Fig. 18) borders.

The vertical UIBs described in figures 1 to 18 are adapted to avoid undesired objects, in either solid phase (such as rockets, birds, dust and building debris), liquid phase, aerosols, gas phase (e.g., smoke, oxygen, and chemical warfare agents) or a combination of those phases, especially wherein those objects flow approximately in parallel to the ground.

Reference is now made to figure 19, illustrating an out-of-scale horizontal array of UIBs. According to this embodiment, the netting is spread in parallel to the ground (1902), hence adapted to protect from vertically actuated objects, here mortar (1901) shells, rockets and missiles.

Reference is now made to figure 2OA, illustrating an out-of-scale scheme of horizontal UIBs system, comprising four balloons, especially adapted for protecting urbane (2002) territories from projected (2001) rockets, e.g., by immobilizing a continuous netting by means of several (here 4) balloons.

Reference is now made to figure 2OB, illustrating an out-of-scale lateral cross section of the same.

Reference is now made to figures 21 and 22 A-C, illustrating an out-of-scale scheme of a multiple UIBs system, especially adapted for protecting a predetermined territory from its various sides. Fig. 22A illustrates a case wherein two sides of the protected territory is protected by a means of a fixedly provided UIBs, wherein a third side of the territory is protected by a mobile UIB (here by cars 2101). Figs. 22B and 22C illustrate similar case wherein horizontal netting protects from various weapons.

It is also in the scope of the present invention wherein electrically charged armor is integrated with the UIB as described in any of the above. Electrically charged armor comprises of at least two thin shells, separated by insulating material. The outer shell holds an enormous electrical charge, while the inner shell is a ground. If an incoming heat jet penetrates the outer shell and forms a bridge between the shells, the electrical energy discharges through the jet, disrupting it.

It is acknowledge in this respect that the UIBs are adapted to generate, store and/or supply electric power form wind turbines, solar radiators, heat radiators, Peltier cells or a combination of the same.

Reference is now made to figures 23 A and 23B, illustrating an out-of-scale scheme of UIBs with active protection. At least a portion of the netting is adapted to conduct an electrical stream or magnetic filed or both. Such netting is useful in activating war-heads having for example piezoelectric trigger. Such netting is also useful for ionizing various chemical warfare agents, hence avoiding their penetration thorough anionic, cationic or zwitterionic charged barriers, filters and meshes.

It is in the scope of the present invention wherein explosive reactive armor is integrated with the UIB as described in any of the above. For example, the reactive amour comprises layers of high explosive sandwiched between steel plates or other sheet-like members. When a shaped-charge warhead hits the netting, the explosive detonates and pushes the steel plates or other sheet-like members into the warhead, disrupting the flow of the charge's liquid metal penetrator. It is in the scope of the invention wherein UIBs comprising explosive reactive armor from various types, such as explosive reactive armor (ERA), self-limiting explosive reactive armour (SLERA), non-energetic reactive armor (NERA), non-explosive reactive armour (NxRA), and electric reactive armor. Unlike ERA and SLERA, NERA and NxRA modules can withstand multiple hits, but a second hit in exactly the same location will still penetrate.

It is also in the scope of the present invention wherein non-explosive reactive armour is integrated with the UIB as described in any of the above. The non-explosive reactive armour is spaced armor which uses materials which change their geometry so as to increase protection under the stress of impact

It is also in the scope of the present invention wherein a pro-active protection system is integrated with the UIB as described in any of the above, pro-active protection systems use a sensor to detect an incoming projectile and explosively launch a counter-projectile into its path.

Reference is now made to figure 24, illustrating in a zoon-in manner an out-of-scale scheme of a tube-like netting (2404) of an UIB comprising an explosive reactive armor (2401) according to one embodiment of the invention. A yarn or a fiber (2403) or a wire of the netting comprises one or more explosive vesicles (2402).

Reference is now made to figure 25, illustrating an out-of-scale scheme of a netting of an UIB comprising an explosive reactive armor according to an embodiment of the invention (left scheme). A cross section of the same is also presented (right scheme), illustrating a possible embodiment wherein an array of explosive yarns, fibers or wires of the netting. It is acknowledged in this respect that the explosives are located at one surface of the netting, two sides of the netting and/or in its inner portion. Hence for example, a multilayered structure is possible, wherein at least one layer, or at least one segment in this layer contain explosive materials.

It is also in the scope of the invention wherein the term 'explosive material' relates in a non- limiting manner to one or more materials being that either is chemically or otherwise energetically unstable or produces a sudden expansion of the material usually accompanied by the production of heat and large changes in pressure, and typically also a flash and/or loud noise, upon initiation or explosion. The term 'explosive material' also relates to low explosives that are combustible substances that decomposes rapidly in a deflagration reaction, but does not explode under normal conditions. Under certain conditions, though, it is possible for them to detonate, usually through initiation with high explosives. The term 'explosive material' also relates to high explosives that undergo detonation at rates of 1,000 to 9,000 meters per second. High explosives are provided, in a non-limiting manner, to primary explosives, secondary explosives and tertiary explosives. Primary explosives are being extremely sensitive to shock, friction, and heat, to which they will respond by burning rapidly or detonating. The best-known primary compound is nitroglycerine. Secondary explosives, also called base explosives, are relatively insensitive to shock, friction, and heat. They may burn when exposed to heat or flame in small, unconfined quantities, but detonation can occur. These are sometimes added in small amounts to blasting caps to boost their power. Dynamite, TNT, RDX, PETN, HMX, and others are secondary explosives. PETN is often considered a benchmark compound, with materials that are more sensitive than PETN being classified as primary explosives. Tertiary explosives, also called blasting agents, are so insensitive to shock that they cannot be reliably detonated by practical quantities of primary explosive, and instead require an intermediate explosive booster of secondary explosive. Examples include an ammonium nitrate/fuel oil mixture and slurry or 'wet bag' explosives.

Reference is now made to figures 26-50 A, illustrating an out-of-scale side view of a netting of an UIB according to various embodiments of the present invention.

Reference is now made to figures 51, illustrating out-of-scale lateral cross-sections of three examples of winged-UIB according to another set of embodiments of the present invention. Those nettings comprising apertures, at least a portion of those apertures are characterized by a main axis being curved or otherwise not-horizontal. A wing-like cross-section is one possible shape, enabling either elevating the netting of the netting upwards or landing it downwards. According to another embodiment of the invention, the non-horizontal axis of the apertures enables right/left maneuverability of the UIB. Hence for example, one or more segments of the netting comprise upwardly oriented wings and one or more segments are directed either to the right or to the left. According to another embodiment of the invention, the direction of the wings is changeable, i.e., by either wire or wireless remote-controlled maneuvering the direction of the wings, the movement of the UIB is facilitated.

Reference is now made to figure 52 describing either static or maneuverable UIB, adapted to barrier mountainous landscape (5201). The barrier is projected on said landscape linearly such that a minimum length of expensive barrier is required; wherein other commercially available fencing systems are enforced along the mountains in a tortuous (i.e., long and expensive) manner. The UIB is perfectly adapted to protect territories located at high altitude, where other

Reference is now made to figure 53, presenting the movement of a maneuverable UIB, here for example in one dimension: from a lower position (left scheme) to a higher position (right scheme).

Additionally or alternatively, the aforesaid 3D or 2D movement of the UIB is provided in by any suitable means, such as armored vehicles or cars (5401) (See Fig. 54), non-armored vehicles, (See Fig. 55) etc interconnected to said UIB. Additionally or alternatively, the aforesaid 3D or 2D movement of the UIB is provided solely by the UIB abilities to maneuver itself. Hence, reference is made to figure 56A presenting an UIB located above a predetermined territory, wherein figure 56B presents the same, wherein said UIB is located outside the territory, e.g., by utilizing propelling means located in or adjacent the balloon, the immobilizing carriers, the nettings, wings of the nettings, propelling means located adjacent the netting or any combination thereof. The term 'propelling means' refers to any means adapted to maneuver, actuate, immobilize, elevate or lower, move or rotate the whole UIB and/or at least a portion of the netting.

Reference is now made to figures 57 and 58, schematically illustrating out-of-scale top view scheme of either maneuverable or affixed horizontal nettings, anchored to four (Fig. 57), two (Fig. 58) or any other number of balloons. Figures 59 and 60 schematically illustrating out- of-scale perspective views of the four balloons and two balloons UIBs, respectively.

Reference is now made to figures 61, schematically illustrating out-of-scale side view of an UIB having combination of several nettings (5A-5C), lower netting (5C), for example, is adapted for avoiding passage of any kind of actuated members and weapons, e.g., mortar shells (6101), middle netting is adapted for example to avoid passage of rockets (6102), and higher netting is adapted, for example, to avoid passage of airplanes thorough this territory.

Reference is now made to figure 62, schematically illustrating out-of-scale side view of a mobile UIB having combination of one nettings, adapted for example to avoid passage of rockets. The high of the netting is a function of the distance between the UIB and the launcher; e.g., the closer the launcher from the UIB, the lower is the middle of the nettings and vice versa.

Reference is now made to figure 63, schematically illustrating out-of-scale side view of a mobile UIB having combination of one nettings, adapted for example to avoid passage of rockets. The high of the netting is a function of the distance between the UIB and the launcher; e.g., the closer the launcher from the UIB, the lower is the middle of the nettings and vice versa.

It is also in the scope of the invention wherein the term Biological warfare (BW), also known as germ warfare hereinafter refers to the use of any pathogen (bacterium, virus or other disease-causing organism) as a weapon of war. Note that using nonliving toxic products, even if produced by living organisms (e.g., toxins), is considered chemical warfare under the provisions of the Chemical Weapons Convention. A BW may be intended to kill, incapacitate or seriously impede an adversary. It may also be defined as the material or defense against such employment.

It is also in the scope of the invention wherein the term "radiological warfare" hereinafter refers to the use of any radiological dispersion device or substance designed to spread radioactive material with the intent to kill, and cause disruption psychologically and financially by impacting a city or nation.

Radiological weapons have been suggested as a possible weapon of terrorism used to create panic and casualties in densely populated areas. They could also render a great deal of property useless for an extended period, unless costly remediation was undertaken. The radiological source greatly impacts the effectiveness of a radiological weapon, including inter alia 137Cs, used in radiological medical equipment, 60Co, 241Am, 252Cf, 192Ir, 238Pu, 90Sr, and 226Ra. All of these isotopes, except for the latter, are created in nuclear power plants. While the amount of radiation dispersed from the event will likely be minimal, the fact of any radiation may be enough to cause panic and disruption.

It is also in the scope of the invention wherein the term chemical warfare hereinafter refers to warfare (and associated military operations) using the toxic properties of chemical substances to kill, injure or incapacitate an enemy. Chemical warfare is different from the use of conventional weapons or nuclear weapons because the destructive effects of chemical weapons are not primarily due to any explosive force. The use of nonliving toxic products produced by living organisms (e.g., toxins such as botulinum toxin, ricin, or saxitoxin) is considered chemical warfare under the provisions of the Chemical Weapons Convention.

Reference is now made to figure 64 , schematically illustrating out-of-scale side view of a mobile UIB adapted for example to avoid passage of dust (6401), irritants, chemical warfare dust agents, biological warfare dust agents, biological toxins, radiological dusts, radiological aerosols, biological warfare aerosols, chemical warfare aerosols, bacterial and/or fungal spores , bacterial and fungal agents.

Reference is now made to figure 65, schematically illustrating out-of-scale side view of a UIB having a spring-like netting (6502), segmented spines (6503) or double helix structure (6504). This structure has a rotatable or stretchable or twistable structure. The structure is possibly attached to a weather vane-like member (6505), e.g., a vane-like member rotating around a hinge and/or possible attached to the ground by an immobilizer (6507). Reference is now made to figures 66 to 77, illustrating the calculated results of the blocking of the flight of Palestinian Kassam Type III ground-to-ground missiles being fired toward civilian population centers at the rate of about a few dozen per day at a range of approximately 10 km. The calculations were performed considering three possible outcomes: (1) breaking the fins of the missile; (2) deceleration of the missile; (3) disintegration of the missile. Bending of the fins, changes in the directions of the falling pieces, and combinations of different outcomes were not investigated.

FIG. 66 shows a sample nominal trajectory (altitude as a function of range) of a Kassam Ill- type missile. At a range of 7 km, the missile reaches an altitude of approximately 4 km, and lands at a range of approximately 10 km from the firing point. FIG. 67 shows the velocity of the missile as a function of range, and indicates that the missile reaches its maximum velocity approximately 1 km downrange, approximately 4 seconds after it is fired (FIG. 68). Similarly, the point at which the missile achieves its maximum kinetic energy (about 5200 kJ) occurs after it has traveled approximately 1 km (FIG. 69).

A separate calculation was performed for the case in which the fins separate from the body of the missile. FIG. 70 illustrates that the fins of a Kassam-type missile are connected to the body only by a few welds, and hence are not strongly held to the body. FIG. 71 shows the missile after the fins have separated, and that the center of gravity (CG) moves forward as the mass at the back of the missile has been lost. FIG. 72 shows a calculated trajectory for a missile in which the fins break off at the peak of the trajectory. According to this calculation, the range of the missile is reduced significantly upon loss of the fins (about 7 km instead of about 10 km). FIG. 73 considers the trajectory of a missile in which the fins separate from the body at a range of about 3 km (one-third of the missile's range). In this case, the missile's range is reduced to less than 5 km, well short of any populated area.

Succeeding figures show calculations of the extent to which the velocity of the missile must be reduced in order to prevent its landing in a populated area (i.e. reducing its effective range from 10 km to 7 km). FIG. 74 shows a calculation for the case in which the decelerating force is applied at the peak altitude. According to this calculation, under these conditions, the velocity at the peak altitude must be reduced 56 m/s if this goal is to be attained. FIG. 75 shows a similar calculation for the case in which the decelerating force is applied at a range of about 3 km. Under these conditions, the velocity must be reduced to 150 m/s at a range of 3 km in order for the total range to be reduced to 7 km. The final set of calculations considers the case in which the missile disintegrates (the warhead separates from the body). FIG. 76 presents a calculation for the case in which the missile disintegrates at the peak of its trajectory; in this case, the range is reduced from 10 km to about 8 km. If, on the other hand, the missile disintegrates about 3 km from its firing point, the range is calculated to be reduced to about 6 km (FIG. 77).

Claims

1. A barrier, wherein said barrier is an upwardly immobilized barrier (UIB) comprising a barrier, comprising at least one netting (5) adapted to avoid or hinder penetration of actuated members, and at least one balloon (1) immobilizing said netting from said nettings top portion.

2. The UIB according to claim 1, wherein at least one netting is held vertically (i.e., approximately perpendicular to the ground) by at least one balloon.

3. The UIB according to claim 1, wherein at least one netting is held horizontally (i.e., approximately in parallel to the ground) by at least one balloon.

4. The UIB according to claim 1, wherein at least one netting is further immobilized to the ground (9) by means of at least one ground anchor (7).

5. The UIB according to claim 1, wherein said barrier comprising at least one frame and at least one netting.

6. The UIB according to claim 1 comprising to or more netting, said nettings are arranged in an array selected from a group consisting of (J) at least one top netting and at least one lower netting; (U) side-by-side relation; (Hi) multilayered netting; (iv) at least one netting is characterized by a main plane being tilted or perpendicular in respect to the main plane of at least one netting or any combination thereof.

7. The UIB according to claim 6, comprising different nettings.

8. The UIB as defined in claim 1 or in any of its dependent claims, adapted to avoid or hinder penetration of actuated members, wherein said actuated members are of different size or type.

9. The UIB according to claim 1, wherein said actuated members is selected from solids, especially missiles, rockets, airplanes, birds, insects or microorganisms; liquids; aerosols; gases, especially chemical and biological warfare agents, dust, smoke, hazardous vapors, explosive or flammable elements and compositions, oxidizers; physical hazardous, or any combination thereof.

10. The UIB according to claim 1, additionally comprising one or more ground immobilizers.

11. The UIB according to claim 1 , wherein said ground immobilizer is a fixed member.

12. The UIB according to claim 1, wherein said ground immobilizer a maneuverable member.

13. The UIB according to claim 1, wherein said maneuverable member is selected from a group consisting of one or more vehicles, especially cars, trucks, tanks, armored vehicles, trains, ships or any other marine vessel.

14. The UIB according to claim 1, wherein said netting comprising at least one wing-like member adapted to maneuver said netting or said UIB in at least one direction selected from a group consisting of (/) left or right; (H) upward; (Hi) downward; or a combination of the same.

15. The UIB according to claim 14, wherein said wing is in either integral or modular connection with one or more of the follows: said balloon; said netting; said ground immobilizer.

16. The UIB according to claim 14, wherein said wing is an integral portion of at least one segment of the netting; optionally wherein the direction of said wing is controlled by means selected from remote controls, wireless controllers, feedbacked controls, external controllers, integrated controls or a combination of the same.

17. The UIB according to claim 1, wherein said at least one netting is in connection with two or more balloons.

18. The UIB according to claim 1, wherein said at least one balloon is in connection with two or more nettings.

19. An array of UIBs comprising two or more UIBs as defined in claim 1 or in any of its dependent claims.

20. The array of UIBs according to claim 19, said array is selected from at least one cascade of UIBs, at least one series of UIBs, one or more parallel UIBs or a combination thereof.

21. The UIB according to claim 1, adapted to protect a given territory from projected weapons, especially mortar shells, missiles, rockets, helicopters, gliders, airplanes, airplanes' bombs, artillery or a combination thereof.

22. The UIB according to claim 21, wherein territory is selected from a group consisting of urban, industrial, roads, train rails, junctions and highways, borders, strategic locations, airports, marine ports, electric producing plants, electric wiring, hospital, storage facilities or the like.

23. The UIB according to claim 1, wherein the size, high, type and/or location of the UIB and netting is in correlation with the parameters related by the territory, actuated object (e.g., weapon) location, distance from UIB and type.

24. The UIB according to claim 1 , wherein the netting is shaped as a tubular member.

25. The UIB according to claim 1, especially adapted to barrier passage of dust, debris and other hazardous related to location of constriction.

26. The UIB according to claim 1, especially adapted to eliminate fire and smoke risks.

27. The UIB according to claim 1, especially adapted to encapsulated, optionally to further decompose chemical, biological or radiological warfare agents.

28. The UIB according to claim 1, especially adapted to protect airfields from flying birds.

29. The UIB according to claim 1, especially adapted to protect corps from migrating locusts or other either insects or other flowing pathogens.

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30. The UIB according to claim 1, wherein said UIB is either multi-layered netting or a single layer composed of one or more of the following: (/) passive barrier means; (U) active barrier means; and (Ui) pro-active barrier means.

31. The UIB according to claim 1, wherein at least one netting comprising explosives adapted to neutralize weapons or any other actuated members before, whilst or after penetrating said netting, communicated netting or neighboring netting.

32. The UIB according to claim 1, wherein at least one netting comprising electrical wiring adapted to neutralize weapons or any other actuated members before, whilst or after penetrating said netting, communicated netting or neighboring netting.

33. The UIB according to claim 1, wherein at least one netting comprising sonic means adapted to neutralize weapons or any other actuated members before, whilst or after penetrating said netting, communicated netting or neighboring netting.

34. The UIB according to claim 1, wherein at least one netting comprising biological, chemical, physical and/or mechanical means adapted to neutralize weapons or any other actuated members before, whilst or after penetrating said netting, communicated netting or neighboring netting.

35. The UIB according to claim 1 or in any of its dependent claims, wherein said balloons are configured as a stack.

36. A method of providing a barrier, wherein said barrier is an upwardly immobilized barrier (UIB); said method comprising a. obtaining at least one barrier, comprising at least one netting (5) adapted to avoid or hinder penetration of actuated members, and at least one balloon (1) immobilizing said netting from said nettings top portion; and, b. setting said one or more UIBs in a manner that penetration of actuated members is avoided or hindered.