AU2021217422A1

AU2021217422A1 - A barrier

Info

Publication number: AU2021217422A1
Application number: AU2021217422A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Hugh Kane
Original assignee: Firepicket Pty Ltd
Current assignee: Firepicket Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2020-02-07
Filing date: 2021-02-08
Publication date: 2022-09-01
Also published as: WO2021155446A1

Abstract

In one aspect, a barrier (5, 305) for use in crisis response operations is disclosed. Broadly, in one form, the barrier comprises a body configured for providing a face for (i) deflecting oncoming thermal radiation upwards of the barrier, and or (ii) containing flood water(s). In one form, a barrier (5) for use in deflecting thermal radiation is disclosed. The barrier (5) comprises a body (10) configured for providing a deflecting face (15) for deflecting oncoming thermal radiation upwards of the barrier (5). In another form, a barrier (305) drawing from the principles of the barrier (5) provides a face for use in deflecting or containing flood water(s).

Description

A Barrier

Technical field

[01] In one aspect, a barrier for use in responding to fire or flood events is disclosed. In one form, the barrier is used for (i) deflecting oncoming thermal radiation upwards of the barrier, and or (ii) containing flood waters.

Background

[02] In regions where natural disasters present a constant (and seasonal) threat, effective mitigation/suppression equipment (or solutions) are always sought to supplement conventional response strategies/operations, especially equipment/solutions which can operate requiring minimal human effort in situations bearing substantive risk. Such on-going threats from crisis events are typical in countries like, for example, Australia, where bush/forest fires and/or seasonal floods occur regularly placing rural assets/persons at significant risk.

[03] A common crisis situation requiring execution of substantive response operations on a regular basis in Australia and the USA are forest/bush/wild fires. A significant and often underestimated component of an approaching fire front is the emanating radiant heat (or thermal radiation). In the advancement of a fire front, radiant heat pre-heats the fuel (flora, for example) in front of the fire front causing the fuel to be become even more flammable. The most effective protection from radiant heat is distance.

[04] In many rural situations, fire fronts can advance very quickly and alter course without notice. In situations where an advancing fire front is being actively monitored, preparation for implementing an appropriate fire mitigation strategy can be a significant factor in working to combat or mitigate the effects of the fire as it approaches. However, the radiant heat of the approaching fire can operate to significantly reduce (human) efforts to adequately prepare fire mitigation equipment/strategies. Any capability that can operate to protect against radiant heat transmission to procure additional preparation time for implementing a fire mitigation/suppression strategy has the potential to be of significant value in protecting valued assets that lie in the path of an advancing fire front. [05] Another significant and often underestimated example of a crisis situation experienced regularly in Australia and elsewhere is flooding. Flood waters which quickly accumulate have inestimable flow and a high potential for damage. Flood waters rise and fall quickly due to, for example melting ice bodies, excessive rains, saturated ground or unsaturated ground with poor absorption capacity, natural geographical features and/or a number of other environmental factors. Often as runoff attempts to settle, flow is created which can be deceivingly strong and destructive. Such flow has resulted in disruption, damage and fatal incidences year after year.

[06] It is against this background that the embodiments described herein have been developed.

Summary

[07] According to a first principal aspect, there is provided a barrier comprising a body configured for providing a face for (i) deflecting oncoming thermal radiation upwards of the barrier, and for (ii) substantially containing flood water(s).

[08] According to a second principal aspect, there is provided a barrier comprising: a body configured for providing a deflecting face for deflecting oncoming thermal radiation upwards of the barrier.

[09] According to a third principal aspect, there is provided a barrier comprising: a body configured for providing a face for containing flood water(s).

[010] In one embodiment, the body is formed from more than one constituent units or modules configured so as to provide the face. In an embodiment the barrier has each of the faces of the second and third aspects.

[Oil] Embodiments of the barrier described herein may be configurable for operable use in response operations to mitigate against threats involving different crisis events, for example, threats from fire, and threats from flooding. Thus, in one form, embodiments of the barrier arranged substantially in accordance with the principles described herein serve to, in one form, provide a solution that can be used (with, in one form if possible, minimal reconfiguration) to combat different threats. Accordingly, in seeking to achieve the latter, embodiments of the above principal aspects, and any of those described below, may comprise any of the following features either individually or in combination.

[012] The shape of the face or deflecting face (hereinafter, deflecting face) is configured so that it is operable in deflecting or directing the oncoming thermal radiation upwards of the barrier, thereby seeking to dissipate the thermal energy away from a zone subject to protection from the barrier. In this manner, thermal energy is sought to be prevented from striking any valued asset (such as for example, a structure, person, vegetation, animal) that is in the ‘protected zone’. It is also envisaged that the hot air flow will also, on encountering the deflecting face, carry embers and or like solid material (related to the fire) entrained in the hot air flow, thereby serving to substantially reduce the impact of embers causing ignition in the protected zone. Accordingly, in one embodiment, the shape/configuration of the deflecting face is configured operable for deflecting or directing any embers or related solid like material associated with (and or entrained therein) the oncoming thermal radiation upwards of the barrier.

[013] In one embodiment, the deflecting face is configured so as to be of substantially planar form and aligned so as to deflect oncoming thermal radiation upwards of the barrier. The deflecting face may be configured so as to comprise a curved or nonlinear portion/section/region.

[014] In one embodiment, the body is of finite length comprising opposite sides extending along a length of the body between opposite ends thereof.

[015] In one embodiment, the body, is configured of shell-like form.

[016] In one embodiment, the deflecting face is a part or a portion of one of the opposites sides of the body.

[017] In one embodiment, one or both of the opposite sides of the body is/are of substantially planar form. [018] In one embodiment, the opposites sides of the body are arranged substantially in convergent relation with one another.

[019] In one embodiment, the body is of a generally triangular or truncated triangular form in vertical cross-section, having a base, proximal the supporting ground, and converging by way of relative alignment of the substantially planar sides so as to provide an apex (or truncated apex) spaced vertically (forming an uppermost end) from the base. In this manner, the body tapers from its base toward its uppermost end.

[020] In one embodiment, the barrier comprises a medium associable with one or more portions of the body and operable for reflecting and or absorbing thermal radiation. In this manner, use of a reflective or insulative material or coating configured for covering a portion of the body can operate to protect the material from which the body is formed from absorbing thermal energy (ie. heat) beyond the material’s inherent thermal capacity, thereby seeking to prevent overheating and potential ignition in the event the barrier is subject to direct fire incursion or protracted exposure to heat.

[021] In one embodiment, the medium is connectable (releasably or otherwise) with the body and arranged so as to extend substantially across one or more portions of the body.

[022] In one embodiment, the medium is arranged so as to extend substantially across portions of one or both opposite sides of the body.

[023] In one form, the medium is a heat shield.

[024] In one embodiment, the heat shield is provided in the form of a material substrate (for example, a fire blanket or similar) configured for reflecting and or absorbing thermal radiation. The heat shield may further comprise one or more materials having a high specific heat capacity and/or low thermal conductivity.

[025] In one embodiment, the heat shield is provided in the form of a coating (for example, an appropriate paint or similar applied to one or more portions of the body or one or more or both opposite sides of the body).

[026] In one embodiment, the heat shield is provided in the form of a high temperature thermoplastic material, coating, or substrate. [027] Since the face will be subjected to intense temperatures of a fire front the face should preferably be devoid of features that are contrary to or will diminish the effectiveness of the face deflecting oncoming thermal radiation.

[028] In one embodiment, the body of the barrier provides one or more coupling arrangements provided at one or both of spaced apart ends of the body that join the opposite sides of the body. In this manner, adjacently disposed barriers can be coupled together in an end-to-end relationship for forming an assembly of like configured barriers.

[029] Since in embodiment where the face received the flood waters and they can create a high force applied against the respective face, the coupling arrangements need to be strong enough to cope with this force. In the case of a barrier only being used as a fire barrier, the couplings would not need to accommodate such a force.

[030] In one embodiment, the or each coupling arrangement is one which is releasable.

[031] In one embodiment, the or each coupling arrangement is configured so as to enable adjacently coupled barriers to be in hinged relation with each other. In this manner, adjacently coupled barriers can be aligned at an angle relative to each other in an end-to-end relationship so that assemblies involving multiple barriers can be arranged so as to substantially follow a linear or non-linear path as might be required to suitably conform or comply with a nonuniform or uneven topography at which such assemblies may be deployed for operable use. In one embodiment, the assembled barriers can also be deployed in ranks, such as for example, by way of strategically placing barrier walls behind each other in such a way so as to provide for a substantially continuous deflection of radiated heat and/or embers. Such an arrangement may be particularly effective where the fire front is predicted to follow an uphill course, for example.

[032] In one embodiment, the coupling of respective bodies of adjacent barriers in forming an assembly of barriers is configured so as to establish, to the extent possible, a fluidic seal therebetween for seeking to reduce the permeability (of thermal radiation and/or flood waters, for example) of the barrier assembly.

[033] In one embodiment, the fluidic seal is formed by way of an interaction of adjacently disposed (or facing) portions of respective barrier bodies or constituent modules. In one form, the fluidic seal is created by way of one or more portions of the barrier (or constituent modules) deforming (eg. due to a media accommodated within the module) so as to interact (eg. abut against) with a portion of an adjacently disposed module (or constituent module thereof), which portion of said adjacently disposed module may be behaving in a like manner or not. In this manner, the interaction due to the deformation (mutual or otherwise) serves to provide an interference between the relevant portions sufficient to reduce the permeable nature therebetween.

[034] In one embodiment, the fluidic like seal may be formed by one or more additional component(s) (eg. sealing elements, membranes, substrates) placed between coupled bodies, more specifically, where, for example, bodies are not coupled in the same orientation.

[035] In one embodiment, the barrier is portable or moveable for ready deployment purposes.

[036] In one embodiment, the body is formed or assembled in a modular manner, by way of, for example, more than one constituent modules.

[037] In one embodiment, each of the constituent modules are arranged or assembled in stacked relation in forming the body of the barrier.

[038] In one embodiment, each of the constituent modules are configured so as to be registrable in stacked relation in forming the body of the barrier. Preferably, the modules are stackable one atop one other, that is only one on top of another, not side by side (but still connected end to end). In a preferred form the barrier is two or more preferably three modules high.

[039] In one embodiment, registrability between adjacently stacked constituent modules involves a plurality of formations which extend from a side (for example, a lower facing side) of one of the adjacently stacked constituent modules and are each receivable in a corresponding recess provided in a side (for example, an upward facing side) of the other of the adjacently stacked constituent modules. In this manner, the constituent modules can be stacked vertically in a manner in which adjacent modules can remain in a desired positional relationship relative to each other by way of the mutual registration. Such registration can be passive, or involve an affirmative releasable locking means so that adjacent constituent modules can be positively interconnected.

[040] In one embodiment, the body of the barrier may be braced across one or both sides of the body using an appropriate bracing assembly.

[041] In one embodiment, such a bracing assembly involves one or more bracing elements configured so as to interconnect adjacently stacked constituent modules.

[042] In one embodiment, the or each bracing element is operable so as to engage (for example, so as to pass or thread therethrough) one or more slots or apertures carried or provided by one or both adjacently stacked constituent modules.

[043] In one embodiment, the or each bracing element is operable so as to engage or interact with one or more slots or apertures (for example, so as to pass or thread therethrough) carried or provided (in a substantially integral manner or otherwise) by one or both adjacently stacked constituent modules, whereby an end of the or each bracing elements (or a region at or near said end) locates within a socket or recess formed or provided (in a substantially integral manner or otherwise) with one of the adjacently stacked constituent modules. In one form, a suitable fastening system (for example, a mechanical fastening system) may be used to confirm connection of the or each bracing elements with any of the adjacently stacked constituent modules or any of the slots, apertures, sockets or recesses carried/supported thereby.

[044] In one embodiment, one or more of the constituent modules forming the barrier comprise portions which extend outward from or beyond one or more respective sides or edges of the relevant constituent module.

[045] In one embodiment, the or each outward extending portion(s) are configured so as to overlap with portions of an adjacent disposed barrier or constituent module thereof when assembled relative thereto, or overlap with portions of an adjacent disposed constituent module when stacked therewith. In this manner, an overlap of the outward extending portion(s) with a portion of an adjacent barrier or constituent module seeks to reduce permeation of a characteristic of a threat (for example, thermal radiation of an approaching fire threat or flood waters of a flood threat) between (i) adjacently disposed constituent modules assembled to form the body or (ii) adjacently disposed barriers (for example, in an assembly of barriers used in defining a protective boundary).

[046] In one embodiment, the or each outward extending (or overlapping) portion(s) extend along a substantial portion of a respective side or edge of the barrier or constituent module.

[047] In one embodiment, one or more of the or each outward extending (or overlapping) portion(s) of a first constituent module overlaps with a portion of an adjacently disposed barrier or constituent module thereof, and or overlaps with a portion of a constituent module adjacently disposed relative to said first constituent module.

[048] In one embodiment, one or more constituent modules used in forming a body of a first barrier comprises:

(i) a first outward extending portion extending along a substantial portion of a first side or edge of the constituent module for overlapping with a portion of a constituent module of another barrier, and

(ii) a second outward extending portion extending along a substantial portion of a second side or edge of the constituent module for overlapping with a portion of an adjacently disposed constituent module used in the forming of the first barrier.

[049] In one form, the first outward extending portion is aligned so as to extend substantially in the vertical plane, for example, a generally vertically extending edge (left and/or right side, for example) of the relevant constituent module. In another form, the second outward extending portion is aligned so as to extend substantially in the horizontal plane, for example, a horizontal edge (upper and/or lower, for example) of the relevant constituent module.

[050] In one embodiment, one or more outward extending portions may comprise one or more apertures operable for use as lifting eyes/padeyes for deployment/handling purposes (of the barrier or constituent modules). [051] In one embodiment, one or more outward extending portions may comprise one or more apertures operable for use in the interconnection between adjacently disposed or stacked constituent modules.

[052] In one embodiment, any of the constituent modules forming the body, is/are configured of shell-like form.

[053] In one embodiment, the body, or any of the constituent modules forming the body, is/are configured having an interior region into which a weight conferring media is removably insertable.

[054] In one embodiment, the body, or any of the constituent modules forming the body, is/are formed of a hollow or shell-like form in providing a respective interior region. In one form, the body, or any of the constituent modules forming the body, comprise internal reinforcing structure for use in maintaining or increasing structural integrity of the relevant constituent module.

[055] In one embodiment, the weight conferring media comprises any of: water, soil, sand (or the like), either separately or in combination.

[056] In one embodiment, the weight conferring media comprises a thermo-gel substance operable as an extinguishant and or fire retardant in the fire area should the integrity of the body of the barrier (or any constituent module) be breached or compromised. This seeks to prevent rekindling of the fire in that area, effectively seeking to provide a limited fire break. Water filled barriers may also operate so as to provide an extinguishant characteristic and or the ability to assist in retarding the following fire thereby reducing the possibility/risk of the fire rekindling.

[057] In one embodiment, for the case where the interior region accommodates water, the barrier may operate as a source or supply of water for use in fire mitigation/suppression or medical emergency operations.

[058] In one embodiment, the body, or any of the constituent modules forming the body, is/are configured having one or more apertures or openings through which the weight conferring media can be introduced into respective interior region(s), and/or removed therefrom. [059] In one embodiment, the body, or any of the constituent modules forming the body, is/are configured having one or more first apertures or openings through which the weight conferring media can be introduced into respective interior region(s), and or one or more second apertures or openings through which the weight conferring media can be removed from respective interior region(s). In one embodiment, the apertures or openings are accessible to or can be provided with the flood waters (eg. pumped) so as to fill the body with water from a floor for storage. Advantageously, the same stored water could be later used for firefighting or fire retarding purposes.

[060] In one embodiment, a filter or sieve may be provided at the opening to remove or reduce debris in flood waters from entering the body.

[061] In one embodiment, the body, or any of the constituent modules forming the body, is/are configured having one or more valves, connections or fittings, such as for example a Storz valve or coupling. In one form, the Storz valve or coupling is a Storz fire hose connection/coupling (for example, a 65mm size Storz fire hose connection).

[062] In an embodiment, the one or more valves, connections or fittings may be provided in the form of a standard fire hose connection, such as a garden hose connection, such as, for example, a quick connect. The person skilled in the art would appreciate that various types and sizes of valves, connections of fittings are suitable for the purpose envisaged by this disclosure.

[063] In one embodiment, the body, or any of the constituent modules forming the body, comprises one or more valves, connections or fittings for transfer of media to/from each of the respective interior region(s).

[064] In one embodiment, the one or more valves, connections or fittings are spaced apart or spaced from one another and or located/positioned at or near one or more sides or edges of the or each body, or any of the constituent modules forming the body. In one form, the valves, connections or fittings are located/positioned at or near one or more opposite sides or edges of the or each body (or any of the constituent modules forming the body). [065] In one embodiment, the body, or any of the constituent modules forming the body, is/are configured having one or more drain units for allowing media contained within the body or relevant constituent module(s) to exit same. In one form, one or more constituent module comprises two such drain units.

[066] In one embodiment, the body, or any of the constituent modules forming the body, is/are configured having one or more valve(s), connections or fittings units for use in filling the body or relevant constituent module(s) with media.

[067] In one embodiment, the or each valve unit for use in filling the body or relevant constituent module(s) with media is spaced from at least (or more) drain unit(s).

[068] In one embodiment, a set of one or more valve units for use in filling the body or a constituent module(s) with media are positioned adjacent a side or edge of the relevant body or constituent module(s), and spaced from a set of one or more valve or drain units for allowing media contained within the relevant body or constituent module(s) to exit same, and which may be positioned adjacent another side or edge of the relevant body or constituent module(s).

[069] In one form, a set of one or more valve units for use in filling the body or a constituent module(s) with media are positioned adjacent a first side or edge of the relevant body or constituent module(s), and spaced from a set of one or more valve or drain units for allowing media contained within the body or relevant constituent module(s) to exit same, which valve or drain units for allowing media contained within the body or relevant constituent module(s) to exit same are positioned adjacent a second side or edge of the relevant body or constituent module(s) that is substantially below said first side or edge.

[070] In one embodiment, any of the constituent modules forming the body of a barrier may be arranged so as to be in fluid communication with each other so that media held or contained within one constituent module can be transferred to another constituent module.

[071] In one embodiment, one or more valve units for use in filling a first constituent module of a barrier body with media is/are arranged in fluid communication with one or more respective valve or drain units of a second constituent module of the barrier so that media contained in the second constituent module can be transferred (eg. drained therefrom) to the first constituent module. Such transfer may be facilitated with the assistance of gravity, or a suitable pump means may be configured operable to assist in the transfer of media between relevant constituent modules.

[072] In one embodiment, the or each body, or any of the constituent modules forming the body, comprises one or more valves configured operable for releasing pressure and/or preventing a vacuum forming or developing in a relevant body/module(s).

[073] In one embodiment, any of the constituent modules are configured so as to operably interact for allowing/enabling fluid communication between respective internal regions of adjacently disposed or interconnected/stacked constituent modules forming the body.

[074] In one embodiment, any of the constituent modules forming the body comprise or carry/support one or more of the coupling arrangements operable for coupling adjacent barriers together.

[075] In one embodiment, the body of the barrier (or a constituent module) is configured so as to provide, at a base of the body, one or more wheel assemblies operable for use in maneuvering of the barrier.

[076] In one embodiment, the or each wheel assembly is configured so as to be retractable within a portion of the base of the body when not required for maneuvering purposes.

[077] In one embodiment, the barrier may comprise a first constituent module providing a base of the barrier, and another constituent module providing an apex of the barrier.

[078] In one embodiment, the body is formed from three constituent modules, a first constituent module providing a base of the barrier, another constituent module providing an apex of the barrier, and a further constituent module provided intermediate the constituent modules forming the base and the apex of the barrier, whereby said constituent modules are each configured so as to form the deflecting face of the body when assembled together in stacked relation. [079] In one embodiment, the or each wheel assembly is provided with the constituent module forming the base of the barrier.

[080] In one embodiment, the body of the barrier, or any of the constituent modules that form the body, each comprise, host, or carry, at any location thereon, a means for determining (and or relaying/transmitting) the location or position of the relevant body (or module) and or a means for identifying the relevant host body/module. In this manner, the location/position of the relevant body/module may be monitored. For example, monitoring of the location/position of the body of the barrier, or any of the constituent modules that form the body, can aid in retrieval operations.

[081] In one embodiment, the body of the barrier, or any of the constituent modules that form the body, each comprise, host, or carry a global positioning system (GPS) module or device, such as for example a GPS transmitter or receiver module/device capable of receiving, broadcasting or transmitting the location/position of the relevant body or module for receipt by any suitable receiving device.

[082] In one embodiment, the body of the barrier, or any of the constituent modules that form the body, each comprise, host, or carry radio frequency identification (RFID) module(s)/hardware configured for storing an identifier (for example, a unique identifier) associated with the relevant body/module. In this manner, each module, for example, can be associated with a unique identification code so that each can be readily identified when required (for example, for an emergency situation outlined below, or for retrieval operations).

[083] In one embodiment, the body of the barrier, or any of the constituent modules that form the body, each comprise, host, or carry circuitry configured operable with the GPS receiver or GPS transmitter so as to store GPS data and or transmit GPS data received from either. In one embodiment, the circuitry is configured operable with the RFID hardware for storing identification data for transmission purposes.

[084] In one embodiment, the body of the barrier, or any of the constituent modules that form the body, may be provided with one or more sensor modules for monitoring or surveilling one or more characteristics (eg. temperature, humidity, etc) for real-time monitoring/surveillance purposes. Any such sensor modules may comprise any of the following: thermal (eg. temperature) sensors, infrared (IR) sensors, humidity (eg, relative humidity) sensors, moisture sensors, air temperature sensors, gas sensors, smoke sensors. The data deriving or emanating from any such sensors may be logged or stored locally (for example, using any appropriate form of data processing and or storage means, device, or arrangement) and or transmitted (eg. in real-time or in an intermittent manner) to a target remote location using, for example, any appropriate data processing and or transmission protocol(s).

[085] In one embodiment, the circuitry comprises a processor module for enabling any of data handling, data receiving, data transfer, data transmitting events.

[086] In one embodiment, the body of the barrier, or any of the constituent modules that form the body, each comprise, host, or carry a power source configured for powering/enabling any means required for powering circuitry required for enabling hardware/software for determining the location/position of the relevant body or module, RFID hardware, and or for transmitting related data at regular intervals or otherwise.

[087] In one embodiment, the position of the relevant host body or module is broadcast or transmitted for receipt by any suitable receiving device. In this manner, the position and or identification of each host body or constituent module can be monitored.

[088] In one embodiment, the circuitry is configured operable with a communication module that is in communication with a network or system (for example, a centralised network/system, of national and or global reach/coverage) operable remote from the body of the barrier, or any of its constituent modules.

[089] In one embodiment, the body of the barrier, or any of the constituent modules that form the body, each comprise, host, or carry a means operable for sending, by way of the circuitry, an emergency transmission triggered by a user (at the relevant body or module), which transmission comprises at least any of the following: the location/position of the host body or module, the identifier associated with the host body or constituent module. In this manner, a user has the means for signalling an alert in an emergency situation by way of the barrier structure or any of its constituent modules. [090] In one embodiment, the body of the barrier, or any of the constituent modules that form the body, may be formed from, at least in part, any fire retardant material. In one form, such a material may comprise polypropylene (PP) material (which is an economical material offering a combination of high performance physical, mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties not found in other thermoplastic materials). Fire retardant PP materials also offer high chemical resistance in corrosive environments, organic solvents, degreasing agents, and electrolytic attack. In other arrangements, use of PP material could be used with a tetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) external coating for exploiting (at the least) its high resistance to high temperature and hydrophobic, not-wetting capabilities. The skilled reader would be aware of appropriate materials that could be used to form the body of the barrier or any of its constituent modules so as to operate in accordance with the principles described herein.

[091] In one embodiment, various metallic materials, such as for example, appropriate grades of aluminium can also be used to form the barrier or any of its constituent modules.

[092] In one embodiment, the body of the barrier, or any of the constituent modules that form the body, may be formed from, at least in part, graphene. In other embodiments, the body of the barrier, or any of the constituent modules that form the body, may be formed from, at least in part, a graphene enhanced polymer. Such barriers could be manufactured using standard injection and/or reaction injection molding (RIM) techniques.

[093] In one embodiment, the barrier may be portable or permanent. Thus, the skilled reader would readily appreciate that the principles described herein could be used to form a permanent structure.

[094] According to a fourth principal aspect, there is provided a barrier comprising: a body formed of an assembly of more than one constituent modules, each of the constituent modules configured so as to, in forming the body, provide a face for:

(i) deflecting oncoming thermal radiation upwards of the barrier, and or

(ii) containing flood water(s). [095] The body or any of the constituent modules forming same may comprise, incorporate, or exemplify any of the features described above, individually or in combination, in relation to the barriers of the first, second, or third principal aspects, or as otherwise described herein.

[096] According to a fifth principal aspect, there is provided a barrier module for use in forming a barrier, the barrier module comprising: a body configured so as to be operable with one or more other constituent parts or bodies used in the forming of the barrier so as to provide a face for:

(i) deflecting oncoming thermal radiation upwards of the barrier, and or

(ii) containing flood water(s).

[097] According to a sixth principal aspect, there is provided a barrier module for use in forming a barrier, the barrier module comprising: a body configured so as to be operable with one or more other constituent parts or bodies used in the forming of the barrier, the body configured so as to, when assembled with the or each other constituent parts or bodies, assist in providing a face for:

(i) deflecting oncoming thermal radiation upwards of the barrier, and or

(ii) containing flood water(s).

[098] Any of the bodies of respective barrier module(s) of the fifth or sixth principal aspects, or the barrier formed by way of an assembly of constituent barrier modules of said principal aspects, may comprise, incorporate, or exemplify any of the features described above, individually or in combination, in relation to the barrier of the first, second, third or fourth principal aspects described herein, or embodiments of same as otherwise described herein.

[099] According to a seventh principal aspect, there is provided a barrier or barrier assembly or structure comprising more than one barriers arranged substantially in accordance with any of the first, second, third, or fourth principal aspects, or as otherwise described herein, or more than one barriers formed from more than one barrier modules arranged substantially in accordance with any of the fifth or sixth principal aspects, or as otherwise described herein, the barriers connected together in an end-to-end relationship to form said barrier or barrier assembly or structure. In one embodiment, such barrier assemblies or structures may be used in crisis response operations.

[0100] According to an eighth principal aspect, there is provided a method for forming a barrier, the method comprising: forming or providing more than one barrier modules arranged substantially in accordance with the barrier modules of the above described principal aspects or as otherwise described herein, and assembling the barrier modules to form the barrier.

[0101] According to a ninth principal aspect, there is provided a method for forming a barrier assembly or structure, the method comprising: forming or providing:

(i) more than one barriers arranged substantially in accordance with any of the first, second, third, or fourth principal aspects, or as otherwise described herein, or

(ii) a barrier assembly arranged substantially in accordance with the seventh principal aspect, or as otherwise described herein, or

(iii) one or more barriers formed substantially by way of the method of the eighth principal aspect, and connecting the barriers together in an end-to-end relationship to form the barrier assembly or structure.

[0102] In one embodiment, the barriers are connected together in an end-to-end relationship so as to form or follow a substantially linear or non-linear path. [0103] In one embodiment, the barriers are connected together in an end-to-end relationship so as to form or follow a portion of a path that substantially follows a portion of a topography of a region at which the barrier assembly or structure is deployed.

[0104] In one embodiment, one or more of the constituent modules forming one or more barriers of the barrier assembly or structure, or one or more of the barriers of the barrier assembly or structure, are configured so as to accommodate a quantity of a weight conferring media for increasing a stability of the relevant barrier.

[0105] According to a tenth principal aspect, there is provided a method for deflecting thermal radiation, the method comprising: forming or configuring a body of a barrier so as to provide a deflecting face operable for deflecting oncoming thermal radiation upwards of the barrier.

In one embodiment, the method further comprises positioning a face so as to deflect oncoming thermal radiation.

[0106] According to an eleventh principal aspect, there is provided a method for containing flood water(s), the method comprising: forming or configuring a body of a barrier so as to provide a face for use in deflecting or containing flood water(s).

In one embodiment, the method further comprises positioning the barrier so as to offer/present the face to oncoming/approaching flood water(s) for containing same

[0107] According to a twelfth principal aspect, there is provided a method for forming a barrier module, the method comprising: forming or configuring a body of the barrier module so as to be operable with one or more other constituent parts used in forming the barrier; configuring the body so as to provide a deflecting face operable for use in deflecting oncoming thermal radiation upwards of the formed barrier.

According to a thirteenth principal aspect, there is provided a method for forming a barrier module, the method comprising: forming or configuring a body of the barrier module so as to be operable with one or more other constituent parts used in forming the barrier; configuring the body do as to provide a face for use in containing flood water(s).

[0108] According to another principal aspect, there is provided a method of fire or flood mitigation comprising deploying and or assembling a barrier or barrier assembly or structure comprising one or more barriers or barrier assemblies or structures as described herein, in or about a region the subject of a prospective fire or flood water threat.

[0109] In one embodiment, the method further comprises positioning a face of the barrier for use as a deflecting face for deflecting oncoming thermal radiation of the prospective fire threat or deflecting or containing oncoming flood water(s) of the prospective flood water threat.

[0110] According to a further principal aspect, there is provided a barrier for use in defining, at least in part, a protective boundary, the barrier comprising: more than one interconnectable bodies each configured so as to, on assembly together, provide a face for use in deflecting or containing a characteristic of a threat approaching the protective boundary, one or more of said bodies configured along a portion of one or more of its edges so as to overlap with a portion of an adjacent interconnected body and or a portion of a body of an adjacently disposed barrier for seeking to reduce permeability of the protective boundary.

[0111] In one embodiment, the threat is a fire event and the relevant characteristic is thermal radiation.

[0112] In one embodiment, the threat is a flood event and the relevant characteristic is flood water(s).

[0113] According to a further principal aspect, there is provided a barrier comprising: a body formed of an assembly of more than one constituent modules, each of the constituent modules configured so as to, in forming the body, provide a barrier or barrier structure for use in containing flood water(s).

[0114] In a further aspect, there is provided a barrier assembly formed from a plurality of barriers arranged substantially as described herein, the barriers arranged so as to form a boundary resistive to approaching flood water(s) in operating to protect a region from said flood water(s).

[0115] According to another principal aspect, there is provided a barrier comprising a body configured for providing (i) a face for deflecting oncoming thermal radiation upwards of the barrier, and or (ii) a means for use in containing flood water(s).

[0116] According to a further principal aspect, there is provided a barrier comprising: a body (formed by way of an assembly of constituent modules or otherwise) configured for providing a deflecting face for deflecting oncoming thermal radiation upwards of the barrier.

[0117] According to another principal aspect, there is provided a barrier comprising: a body (formed by way of an assembly of constituent modules or otherwise) configured for use as a means for containing flood water(s).

[0118] According to another principal aspect, there is provided a multi-purpose barrier comprising a body (formed by way of an assembly of constituent modules or otherwise) configured for (i) providing a face for deflecting oncoming thermal radiation upwards of the barrier, and or (ii) use in containing flood water(s).

[0119] According to another principal aspect, there is provided a barrier for use in defining, at least in part, a protective boundary, the barrier comprising: more than one interconnectable bodies each configured so as to, on assembly together, provide a face for use in (i) deflecting oncoming thermal radiation upwards of the barrier or protective boundary, and or (ii) containing flood water(s), one or more of said bodies configured along a portion of one or more of its edges so as to overlap with a portion of an adjacent interconnected body and or a portion of a body of an adjacently disposed barrier for seeking to reduce permeability of the protective boundary.

[0120] According to another principal aspect, there is provided a kit of parts comprising any componentry described herein (either individually or in combination) for use in forming a barrier, a barrier assembly or structure arranged so as to substantially exemplify any of the embodiments of the principal aspects described herein, or as otherwise described herein.

[0121] According to another principal aspect, there is provided a kit of parts comprising more than one barrier modules for use in forming a barrier for deflecting thermal radiation, each of the barrier modules comprising a body configured so as to be operable with a body of another barrier module used in forming the barrier, said bodies each configured so as to, when assembled, provide a deflecting face configured operable for deflecting oncoming thermal radiation upwards of the barrier.

[0122] According to another principal aspect, there is provided a kit of parts comprising more than one barrier modules for use in forming a barrier for deflecting or containing flood water(s), each of the barrier modules comprising a body configured so as to be operable with a body of another barrier module used in forming the barrier, said bodies each configured so as to, when assembled, provide a face configured operable for deflecting or containing oncoming flood water(s).

[0123] Various principal aspects described herein can be practiced alone or combination with one or more of the other principal aspects, as will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the relevant art. The various principal aspects can optionally be provided in combination with one or more of the optional features described in relation to the other principal aspects. Furthermore, optional features described in relation to one example (or embodiment) can optionally be combined alone or together with other features in different examples or embodiments. [0124] For the purposes of summarising the principal aspects, certain aspects, advantages and novel features have been described herein above. It is to be understood, however, that not necessarily all such advantages may be achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment or carried out in a manner that achieves or optimises one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other advantages as may be taught or suggested herein.

[0125] It is to be understood that each document, reference, patent application or patent cited in this text is expressly incorporated herein in their entirety by reference, which means that it should be read and considered by the reader as part of this text. That the document, reference, patent application, or patent cited in this text is not repeated herein is merely for reasons of conciseness.

[0126] Furthermore, in this specification, where a literary work, act or item of knowledge (or combinations thereof), is discussed, such reference is not an acknowledgment or admission that any of the information referred to formed part of the common general knowledge as at the priority date of the application. Such information is included only for the purposes of providing context for facilitating an understanding of the inventive concept/principles and the various forms or embodiments in which those inventive concept/principles is/are exemplified.

Brief description of the drawings

[0127] Further features of the inventive principles are more fully described in the following description of several non-limiting embodiments thereof. This description is included solely for the purposes of exemplifying the inventive principles. It should not be understood as a restriction on the broad summary, disclosure or description as set out above. The description will be made with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of a barrier arranged in accordance with the principles described herein;

Figure 2 shows a further perspective view (in exploded form) of the embodiment of the barrier shown in Figure 1 ; Figure 3 shows a front elevation view of the embodiment of the barrier shown in Figures 1 and 2 (with bracing componentry removed);

Figure 4 shows a cross-section view through A-A (identified in Figure 3);

Figure 5 shows an end view of the embodiment of the barrier shown in the preceding Figures;

Figure 6 shows a rear elevation view of a component part (the base module of the barrier) of the embodiment of the barrier shown in the preceding Figures; and

Figure 7 shows a plane view of the component shown in Figure 6;

Figure 8 shows an end view of another embodiment of a barrier drawing from the principles described herein (for use in flood water threat mitigation) formed from top, middle, and base modules;

Figure 9 shows a front elevation view of the base module shown in the arrangement of the embodiment seen in Figure 8;

Figure 10 shows a rear elevation view of the base module shown in Figure 9;

Figure 11 shows a front elevation view of the top module shown in Figure 8;

Figure 12 shows a rear elevation view of the top module shown in Figure 11 ; and

Figure 13 shows an isometric view of the base module shown in Figure 8, and Figures 9 and 10.

[0128] In the figures, like elements are referred to by like numerals throughout the views provided. The skilled reader will appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions and/or relative positioning of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to facilitate an understanding of the various embodiments exemplifying the principles described herein. Also, common but well understood elements that are useful or necessary in a commercially feasible embodiment are often not depicted in order to provide a less obstructed view of these various embodiments. It will also be understood that the terms and expressions used herein adopt the ordinary meaning as is accorded to such terms and expressions with respect to their corresponding respective areas of inquiry and study except where specific meanings have otherwise been set forth herein.

[0129] It should be noted that the figures are schematic only and the location and disposition of the components can vary according to the particular arrangements of the embodiment(s) as well as of the particular applications of such embodiment(s).

[0130] Specifically, reference to positional descriptions, such as ‘lower’ and ‘upper’, and associated forms such as ‘uppermost’ and ‘lowermost’, are to be taken in context of the embodiments shown in the figures, and are not to be taken as limiting the scope of the principles described herein to the literal interpretation of the term, but rather as would be understood by the skilled reader.

[0131] Embodiments described herein may include one or more range of values (eg. size, length, height, width, displacement and field strength etc). A range of values will be understood to include all values within the range, including the values defining the range, and values adjacent to the range which lead to the same or substantially the same outcome as the values immediately adjacent to that value which defines the boundary to the range.

[0132] Other definitions for selected terms used herein may be found within the detailed description and apply throughout. Unless otherwise defined, all other scientific and technical terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood to one of ordinary skill in the art to which the embodiment(s) relate.

Detailed description

[0133] The words used in the specification are words of description rather than limitation, and it is to be understood that various changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of any aspect of the invention. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that a wide variety of modifications, alterations, and combinations can be made with respect to the above described embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of any aspect of the invention, and that such modifications, alterations, and combinations are to be viewed as falling within the ambit of the inventive concept. [0134] Throughout the specification and the claims that follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising”, will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers.

[0135] Furthermore, throughout the specification and the claims that follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word “include” or variations such as “includes” or “including”, will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers.

[0136] With reference to the Figures, there is shown a number of embodiments of a barrier for use in crisis response operations. Broadly, the barrier comprises a body configured for providing a face for use in seeking to mitigate adversity due to one or more crisis related events, such as for example, a forest or bush fire event, or a flood event. In one form, embodiments of the barrier arranged substantially in accordance with the principles described herein serve to, in one form, provide a body configured for providing a face for (i) deflecting oncoming thermal radiation upwards of the barrier, and or (ii) containing flood water(s). The principles described herein include within their scope related methods for forming the barrier, constituent modules or bodies of such barrier(s), and assemblies/structures formed from exemplifications of the barrier(s).

[0137] Figures 1 to 7 show generally an embodiment of a barrier (5) arranged in accordance with the present principles for use in a response aimed at combatting an approaching fire. Figures 8 to 13 show an embodiment (305) drawing from the principles of the barrier (5) outlined in respect of the barrier shown in Figures 1 to 7, but which is aimed at combatting or containing advancing/approaching flood water(s).

[0138] Wth reference to Figures 1 to 7, there is shown one embodiment of a barrier 5 configured for use in deflecting thermal radiation (often referred to as radiant heat) emanating from a fire front, eg. a moving fire front of a bush/forest/wild fire. Broadly, the barrier 5 comprises a body 10 having a deflecting face for deflecting oncoming thermal radiation upwards of the barrier 5.

[0139] The barrier 5 comprises a body 10 of finite length having opposite sides (first side 15, and second side 20), each of which are of substantially planar form and arranged in angled relation with each other (the planar forms being substantially convergent with each other as shown in Figure 1). A portion of the body 10 is configured for providing a deflecting face (the planar face of side 15 being the deflecting face in the embodiment shown in the Figures 1 to 7) that is configured for deflecting oncoming thermal radiation upwards of the barrier 5. The first side 15 is configured so that the deflected radiant heat is directed substantially above or upwards of the barrier 5 thereby dissipating/deflecting the energy away from a ‘protected zone’ - in Figure 1, the protected zone is to the right hand side of the second side 20 of the barrier 5, whereby the first side 15 is that which faces the oncoming fire front. In this manner, the angled nature of the first side 15 operates to deflect the radiant heat upwards of the barrier 5 and away from the protected zone. Thus, energy in the form of thermal radiation is prevented (to the extent possible) from striking any structure, vehicle, person, vegetation, or animal (etc) in the protected zone behind the barrier 5. It will be appreciated that the deflecting face may be configured so as to comprise one or more curved or nonlinear portions.

[0140] The barrier 5 is provided with a medium for reflecting and or absorbing thermal radiation, and arranged so as to extend across a substantial portion or region of the side 15. Examples of appropriate thermal radiation reflecting/absorbing mediums may comprise, reflective fire blankets (as currently used by Australian Fire and rescue services), intumescent paint coatings, high temperature thermosetting plastic coatings which could be bonded to the fire facing surfaces of the barrier 5 (or any of the fire facing surfaces, or otherwise, of any of its constituent modules 10i (base module), 102 (middle module), and IO3 (top module)) as will be described below. For the embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 7, the medium is provided in the form of a heat shield material 25 (for example, a fire blanket comprising a reflective and or insulating substrate) arranged so as to extend across a portion of the side 15, but could be provided so as to extend across substantial regions of both sides 15, 20 of the body 10. As seen in Figure 1 , a first edge 25UE of the heat shield 25 attaches at about an apex 10A of the body 10 (curling about the apex for attachment on the second side 20), and extends across the first side 15 where a second edge 25LE of the heat shield 25 attaches at about a lower edge of the base of the body 10 (adjacent the lower edge of the side 15). Where, for example, fire blankets are used as heat shields, a heavy duty hook and loop fastening system, such as the Velcro® fastening system, can be used for attachment purposes, for example, in combination with loops and ties which are tethered to anchor points (not shown in Figure 1) provided as part of the respective body/barrier/module moulding on the non-fire facing surface of the barrier 5 (ie. side 20 in the present embodiment) - it will be appreciated that fire facing and non-fire facing surface(s) of the body/barrier moulding could also provide such attachment points. Use of the heat shield 25 serves to reflect and/or absorb radiated heat thereby protecting the base materials of the barrier (or constituent modules 102, I O3) from heat absorption beyond their inherent thermal capacity by preventing overheating and/or ignition in case of direct fire incursion or protracted exposure to the heat.

[0141] It is to be appreciated that the heat shield 25 could be provided in the form of a coating (for example, an appropriate paint applied to the portion of the deflecting face of side 15). Thus, in other embodiments, the heat shield 25 could be provided in the form of a thermoplastic material, coating, or substrate.

[0142] As shown in Figure 1 , a number of further like barriers 5’ and 5”, for example, can be arranged (by similar modular construction in accordance with the principles described below) to form, in an end-to-end arrangement, a larger barrier assembly or structure (as might be considered appropriate) for placement/deployment in the path of an advancing fire-front/bushfire for deflecting radiant heat (or, for example, rising flood waters). Thus, the barriers 5, 5’, and 5” (or more) can be used to provide immediate substantial relief from the effects of thermal radiation from the advancing fire front. As will be described below, the barriers 5, 5’, 5” can be coupled together in an end-to-end relationship so that each can be angled relative to each other so as to follow a linear or nonlinear path (depending on the topography/contouring of the deployment region/area). Furthermore, the assembled barriers (5, 5’, 5”) can also be deployed in ranks such as in strategically placing barrier walls (barrier assemblies/structures) behind each other in such a way so as to provide substantially continuous deflection of radiated heat and/or embers. Such arrangements may be particularly effective where the fire front is predicted to follow an uphill course, for example. As foreshadowed above, the above description also applies to use of like formed barriers when used in responses to rising flood waters for containment purposes.

[0143] The body 10 of the barrier 5 is of a generally triangular form in cross-section (see Figures 4 and 5) and formed in a modular build/assembly/construction involving three registrable constituent modules 10i, I O2, I O3 that when connected together cooperate so as to form/provide the angled sides 15, 20 of the barrier. As shown in Figure 1, the body 10 is formed of three modules 10i (providing a base module), I O2 (providing a mid-layer module), and I O3 (the upper most or top module forming the apex 10A of the body) arranged in stacked relation with each other. It will be appreciated that more or less than three constituent modules may be used while still consistent with the principles described herein. Further, each of the modules 10i, I O2, 103can be configured so as to be of various sizes and interchangeable as might be required for a specific response application. As the module (10i, I O2, I O3) widths (or their respective segment lengths in the length direction of each module) can vary from, for example, about 1m to about 3m, spacing and connectability is provided and enhanced over uneven ground. Smaller 300- 500mm wide units can also be provided where it is known that the topography of a protected zone undulates considerably. The skilled reader will appreciate that while the barrier 5 is formed from a modular arrangement, it could be provided as a single unit (or segment). The skilled reader would readily appreciate that the modules (10i, I O2, I O3) can be dimensioned in any manner so as to be suitably formed or configured for use in any area/region so as to substantially conform/comply with local topography/contouring. Furthermore, the barrier structures drawing from the principles described herein could be arranged so as to be permanent (or semi-permanent) structures.

[0144] Relative positioning between adjacent stacked modules is achieved by way of a plurality of formations extending from one constituent module for receipt in a respective or corresponding recess provided with an adjacent constituent module. In this manner, the underside of the base wall of each of the modules I O2 and I O3 are provided with a plurality of pegs P (6 shown) (see Figures 3, 4) that are dimensioned so as to be registrable with corresponding sockets S that are provided in the respective upper facing wall of each of the modules 10i and I O2. That is, as shown in Figure 3 and 4, each of the 6 pegs P extending from the underside of the base wall 54 of the upper (or top/apex) module I O3 are arranged so as to each register with a corresponding socket S seen in Figure 2, recessed in the upper facing wall 52 of module I O2. Similarly, each of 6 pegs P extending from the underside of the base wall 53 of the mid layer module I O2 are arranged so as to each register with a corresponding socket S recessed in the upper facing wall 51 of module 10i. In this manner, the body 10 of the barrier 5 can be assembled in a modular form in a stacked (or vertical like) manner. It will be appreciated that the pegs P could be configured with the corresponding sockets S so that both releasably lock together for providing an affirmative or confirmed engagement therebetween. The skilled reader will readily appreciate various forms of coupling systems that could confer such interlocking functionality.

[0145] Like with the connectable nature of the modules 10i, 102, IO3 (in a stacked, vertical manner), provision is made for the barrier 5 to be connected in an end-to-end relation with like formed barriers 5’, 5”, as shown in Figure 1. In this manner, various sizes of barrier structures can be formed to suit a variety of situations (eg. different topographies). Such connection is enabled by way of providing each of the modules 10i, IO2, IO3 with capability for releasably coupling with an adjacent or corresponding constituent module used in forming the body of an adjacently disposed barrier (5’ or 5”), for example.

[0146] As shown in Figures 3 and 5, a first end 26 of each (see Figures 2 and 3 showing the designation (261,2,3) of the first end 26 for each module) respective module IO2, IO3 is provided with two female connecting parts Fc, and a second end 28 of each (similarly, see Figures 2 and 3 showing the designation (281,2,3) of the second end 28 for each module) respective module 10i, IO2, IO3 is provided with two male connecting parts Me: each female connecting part Fc providing a circular shaped aperture spaced from the relevant end structure (eg. wall portion) and through which a round shaped spigot of the male connecting part Me (also spaced from its relevant end) of an adjacently disposed barrier may insert into (generally from above). Connection between the female Fc and male Me connecting parts provides a hinge like connection allowing a degree of rotation between connecting adjacent barriers. With reference to Figures 1, 2, 3, 6 and 7, each of the male connecting parts Me provided at the second end 28 of barrier 5” by respective modules IO2, IO3 respectively engage or connect with corresponding female connecting parts Fc provided by respective modules 10i, IO2, IO3 at the first end 26 of the barrier 5. Likewise, each of the male connecting parts Me provided at the second end 28 of the barrier 5 by respective modules 10i, IO2, IO3 respectively engage or connect with corresponding female connecting parts Fc provided by respective modules 10i, IO2, IO3 at the first end 26 of barrier 5’. [0147] While a female-male connection system has been shown in Figures 1 to 7, it will be appreciated that any form or type of coupling system may be used to releasably connect the ends of adjacent barriers (5, 5’, 5”) together. For example, a tongue and groove system. However, an advantage of the female/male coupling arrangement employed with the embodiment described/shown herein can be that adjacent barriers (5, 5’, 5”) can be aligned at desired angles relative to each for situations where an arrangement of barriers is desired to follow a curved or non-linear path (for example, in situations where the topography/contour of the intended deployment area is uneven and a linear alignment of the barriers is not possible or will result in a less effective barrier structure).

[0148] In addition to the use of the male-female connecting system between adjacent ends of barriers (5, 5’, 5”), a system for bracing across adjacently stacked barrier modules 10i, 102, IO3 can also be provided. As shown in Figure 1 , each of the modules 10i, IO2, IO3 are operable with an arrangement of slots 36A (carried by moulded brackets 36B) and sockets 36s that are operable with bracing elements 36 (see Figure 5) that can be configurable across one (or both) sides of adjacent stacked barriers (side 20 shown for the present case). In this manner, the connection between adjacently stacked barrier modules 10i, IO2, IO3 can be strengthened as the case may require. In substance, the brace elements 36 each insert from the higher stacked modules through slots 36A that are carried/provided with brackets 36B (which, for the embodiment shown, are formed as part of the body of the relevant module), and slid downward so as to locate into sockets 36s (provided both of modules IO2, 10i) provided integral with the body (or moulding) of the lower adjacent supporting module. As shown in Figure 1 , 2 x slots 36A carried by respective brackets 36B of module IO3 (each carried near a respective opposite end of the module IO3) receive a respective brace element 36 therethrough, which brace elements 36 pass through further respective slots 36A carried by respective brackets 36B of the lower adjacent module IO2 - each brace element 36 then being received by a respective socket 36s provided with the module IO2 as shown in Figures 1 and 5 (ie. each socket 36s being moulded as part of the body of the module IO2). Similarly, 2 x slots 36A (spaced inwardly of those carried by the module IO3 for bracing module IO3 with module IO2) carried by respective moulded brackets 36B of the module IO2 each receive a respective brace element 36 therethrough which passes through respective further slot 36A carried by respective brackets 36B provided with the module 10i - each brace element 36 then being received by a respective socket 36s provided with module 10i as shown in Figures 1 and 5 (ie. each socket 36s also being moulded as part of the body of the module 10i).

[0149] Any of the brackets 36B (which carry or host associated slots 36A) can be configured so as to double as carry handles to assist in handling of the respective modules, and or configured so as to provide more strength and stability to the barrier 5 (or any of its constituent modules 10i, 102, IO3). Each of the brace elements 36 can be fabricated from a high strength, high temperature thermosetting plastic and supplied, in at least one form, separately for installation when the relevant barrier (5, 5’, 5” etc) is built/assembled. A suitable fastening system (such as for example, a mechanical fastening system) may be used to confirm connection of the or each bracing elements 36 with any of the adjacently stacked constituent modules. The skilled reader would be aware of other ways in which such bracing between adjacently stacked modules could be achieved.

[0150] For want of a better analogy, construction of the barrier 5 can be likened to the construction of sand or water filled interlocking roadside barriers (but of marginally heavier construction) and connected in place by the connecting systems described above. Each barrier 5 is provided with the heat shield material 25 (fire-resistant and/or reflective) which is arranged so as to extend across a portion of one side (side 15 of the barrier 5 shown in Figures 1, 2, 4, and 5) of the barrier 5 that faces the approaching fire and radiated heat. However, depending on requirements, it will be appreciated that a further heat shield may be also provided on the opposing side (side 20, for example) thereby covering both sides of the body 10.

[0151] Embodiments of the barrier 5 seek to ameliorate the effects of heat radiation which may be transferred at great windspeeds towards vulnerable assets. The design and construction of the barrier 5 therefore needs to be substantial in order to withstand fire induced altered weather with the subsequent generation and rapidly rising development of heat with worsening conditions. The same functionality has substantial utility when responding to a flood crisis event for use in containing flood waters. To this end, for stability purposes, each of the modules 10i, IO2, IO3 are formed having a respective body that is generally hollow or of shell-like form having an interior region that is capable of receiving a media (for example, sand, soil, mud, water, etc) for conferring weight to the module. Any media having a handleable consistency (for insertion/removal from the interior of the relevant module) that can provide a weight conferring effect to the relevant module can be applicable for use. As shown in Figure 2 and Figure 4, respective bodies of the modules 10i, 102, IO3 are hollow or of shell-like form having an interior region allowing for a quantity of the relevant media to be accommodated therein. The bodies of each module 10i, IO2, IO3 are provided with reinforcement in the form of suitably shaped/formed stiffening elements 12 (eg. bulkhead like formations) provided internal of each body module as shown in Figures 6 and 7.

[0152] With reference to Figures 2 (showing an exploded form where the upper facing side of the mid-module IO2 is visible) and 7 (showing the base module 10i), placement (or filling) of the media into the modules 10i, and IO2 is by way of one or more apertures Ai and A2 respectively: two apertures Ai provided in the upper facing wall of the module 10i, and two apertures A2 provided in the upper facing wall of the module IO2. Of course, each of the apertures Ai, A2 are dimensioned or shaped so as to allow for convenient entry/insertion of the relevant media. The upper (or top/apex) positioned module IO3 is filled by way of ports A3 provided at or near an upper region of the module (IO3). The ports Ai, A2, A3, in at least one arrangement, are configured so as to incorporate pressure relief valves or similar so as to seek to avoid the risk/danger of water boiling. Should the pressure build up to burst the relief orifice (or relevant valve), then steam (which is an excellent extinguishant) will be released as a steam curtain through an appropriate outlet at the top of module IO3 and directed over the heat shield 25, serving/operating to both cool the fire and protect the body/modules from overpressure and possible bursting.

[0153] Filling (or draining) of the modules could also be achieved using filling (or draining) ports 52 placed on the second side 20 of each of the modules at any location, as shown as parts 314 with barrier 305 in Figures 8 to 13.

[0154] For use with rising flood waters, for example, stability of the barrier could be enhanced by providing the base module 10i (or module 310i, of the barrier 305 shown in Figures 8 to 13) with appropriately engineered/configured eyelets or padeyes that allow the base module to be anchored in the appropriate position/location to its supporting ground. The skilled reader will appreciate various anchoring systems that could be operable with the principles described herein.

[0155] Removal (or emptying) of the relevant media from each of the modules 10i, 102, I O3 is by way of respective ports 52 formed in the side wall of each respective modules, as shown in Figures 1 and 2. Each of the ports 52 comprises closures that can be operated to selectively close the respective port. Such ports 52 could also comprise or be configured so as to host valve units allowing fluid communication with a pump assembly for allowing selective removal of quantities of the water within the relevant module (for example, for cases where the modules are used as a source or supply of water). The skilled reader will readily appreciate the various types of ports/closures suitable for such purposes (for example, a simple inspection port used in the marine industry). Similarly, each of the apertures Ai , A2, A3 may also comprise respective closures and or valve assemblies. The closures and/or valve assemblies may comprise a means or device to prevent the creation of a vacuum, such as a vacuum breaker valve unit, as the media is released from the internal region of each of the modules 10i, I O2, I O3.

[0156] In one form, each of the modules could be configured so as to be in fluid communication with each other by way of the apertures Ai , A2 fluidly linking its host module with the module stacked thereabove/below. In this manner, a stack of vertically arranged and fluidly linked modules forming a barrier could each be filled with water (or with whatever media is selected) so that the formed barrier operates a single source of water (or media).

[0157] In cases where water is used as the weight conferring media, any of the modules 10i , I O2, I O3 can serve as a water supply for use by ground personnel, for either firefighting purposes and or for emergency use in medical situations, for example. Thus, where emergency situations have been downgraded, or in any other strategically acceptable moment, water contained within the modules I O2, I O3 can be drained for firefighting duties as appropriate, as the water is, in such a configuration, readily available and of a potentially considerable volume providing a source which can provide a substantial aid in continuing firefighting efforts. Furthermore, where fire may encroach upon the barrier 5 (or barriers), and in the unlikely event that the barriers are compromised or breached, then extinguishant is therefore provided at the point of ignition by means of the water contained in the modules 10i, IO2, IO3 - such release of the accommodated water occurring when fire has breached or compromised the integrity of the modules 10i, IO2, IO3 forming the/each barrier (5, 5’, 5”).

[0158] The design of each of the modules 10i, IO2, IO3 can be informed by the quantity or volume of media that each module needs to accommodate for a response operation. For example, in one embodiment, the base module 10i is designed so as to accommodate about 2,600 litres of water (or 4,940 kgs of wet sand for providing additional lower-down weight), the mid-layer module IO2 is designed so as to accommodate about 1,580 litres of water, and the upper/top module IO3 is designed so as to accommodate about 1 ,050 litres of water. Furthermore, the design of each of the modules IO2, IO3 can be informed by the general topography of the intended deployment area/region.

[0159] The modules 10i, IO2, IO3 are of substantial size but are dimensioned so to be maneuverable and mobile by way of one or more retractable wheel assemblies Rw provided with the base module 10i and operable between an extended condition (in which the relevant wheel of the wheel assembly is operable to allow for convenient moving of the barrier) and a retracted condition (shown in Figure 3) in which the wheel is caused to reside in an inoperable condition within a recess (for example) formed within the base wall of the base module 10i (as clearly seen in Figures 3, 4, 5, and 6 - the retractable wheels Rw being shown on the alternate side). The skilled reader would readily appreciate that any number of retractable wheels Rw may be provided and or configured according to any configuration suitable for enabling movement of the barrier as required.

[0160] Handles (which could be removable or retractable within the respective bodies of the modules 10i, IO2, IO3) or lifting eyes/padeyes can be fitted at one or both ends (26, 28) or sides (15, 20) of any of the modules 10i, IO2, IO3 for ease of deployment/handling/assembly (eg. compiling the modules together), and for setting each in position before filling with any of sand, wet sand, earth, thermo-gel substances, and water (as discussed below). In cases where a thermo-gel substance may be used, advantage could be seen in that such a substance would operate to provide an extinguishant and/or fire retardant (in the fire/deployment area) should the integrity (respective or otherwise) of the barrier or barrier assembly/structure be breached or compromised. Use of the thermo-gel substance therefore seeks to prevent rekindling of the fire in that area effectively providing a limited fire break. Water filled barriers also provide the extinguishant property if not the ability to retard the following fire thereby reducing the possibility/risk of the fire rekindling.

[0161] Any of the modules 10i,102,IO3, may be provided with one or more fixing/attachment points (for example, padeyes or similar attachment points) for lifting the modules as required. It is envisaged that two people could work together utilising ladders or mechanical lifting equipment as required for assembling the modules IO2, IO3 in assembling the barrier 5. It will be appreciated that bespoke separate trolleys or bogie cradles could be formed to assist in the handling of the modules IO2,IO3 in the forming of the barrier 5 - such additional equipment is, of course, largely dependent on the prospective use of the barrier 5 which can be, at least in part, driven by the geometry of the modules 10i,IO2,IO3.

[0162] The modules 10i,IO2,IO3 forming the body 10 of the barrier 5 are made or formed from a thermoplastic flame-resistant plastic (being an eco-friendly recyclable material). It will be appreciated that a thermosetting plastic could also be used in the forming of the modules 10i,IO2,IO3. The engineering design of each of the modules 10i,IO2,IO3 can be configured so as to ensure that sufficient strength can be conferred to each of the modules IO2,IO3 to accommodate materials having inherent weaker strengths.

[0163] Following from the above, it will be seen that embodiments of the barrier 5 provides a means of protecting people, the environment (including flora and fauna), domestic crops, wild animals, livestock (by means of corralling or shelter walls etc), domestic and business properties, roadways or compounds, essential communication and other infrastructure, including Government installations/facilities, high value assets (etc) by way of providing a barrier which performs as a deflector of radiated heat, as a protection from fire, and for containing flood waters. The barrier 5 can be used as a unit in the formation of a larger barrier structure/assembly, allowing also the barrier structure/assembly to extend or stretch in a linear or non-linear form to account for varying extents of surface topography/contouring of the intended deployment area/region.

[0164] In some embodiments which rely on water as a means of providing weight to the barrier module, the water can serve as an emergency source of water for supply purposes, and/or as an extinguishant (as described above). For example, the water supply can be used strategically by the firefighters on the ground (however, it must be borne in mind that such use of the water may reduce the thermal absorption capacity when acting as a barrier).

[0165] Embodiments of the barrier 5 can be configured so that the vertical height ranges from about 1 to about 3 meters high - for example, with each of the modules 10i, I O2, I O3 being configured so as to have a respective height from about 1 meter (for reference purposes, the accepted standard height of a single level of a house or building is about 2 meters). The barrier 5 (or additional barriers used in forming a larger barrier structure) may be set at a full 3m height for providing a defensive strategy for a double level structure, or, for example, in defense of a business/industrial structure. However, in cases where the asset requiring protection is even higher, the modules can be added to and constructed to the level required. It is intended that these ‘non-typical’ barriers would be designed or engineered for the specific intended purpose using the principles described herein in the forming of the constituent modules, ie. duplicating the same properties regarding basic design principles of fire/flood protection capability etc and using the same or very similar materials for construction and protection. Accordingly, while the body 10 of the barrier 5 described herein is formed from three constituent modules (a number currently considered appropriate for most applications), a higher number of modules could be designed and used for atypical situations (for example, to account for varying extents of land topography or asset size).

[0166] For example, a 2 meter high barrier of around 12 metres in length which, with the length of each module measuring around 3 meters, would require four barriers (5) arranged end-to-end, and could be assembled/deployed to defend a single level domestic building in the same way a brick wall may do so currently. In this example, each of the four barriers would consist of base 10i and mid-layer IO2 modules only. A side (15) of all modules 10i, IO2 would be associated with a heat shield material/substrate/coating (eg. a fire-resistant/reflective material) consistent with preparation of the barrier 5 and the principles described herein.

[0167] The skilled reader will appreciate that the principles described herein lend themselves to other related aspects, including methods for forming the barrier 5 and each of the constituent modules 102, I O3 so as to accord with the principles described herein. Furthermore, methods may be realised in the area of fire/flood mitigation in which strategies can be developed that involve forming and or deploying barriers and or assemblies of multiple like barriers at regions/areas that are subject to a fire/flood risk or threat.

[0168] It will also be appreciated that commercial forms of the barrier arranged substantially in accordance with the principles described herein could be provided in the form of a kit of parts. For example, such kits could be comprised of any of the components described herein for forming a barrier, barrier assembly or structure exemplifying any of the principles described herein.

[0169] Each of the modules 10i, IO2, IO3 of the barrier 5 (and the modules 3101 , 3102,

3103 of the barrier 305 described below) can be made from fire retardant polypropylene (PP) material (which is an economical material offering a combination of high performance physical, mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties not found in other thermoplastic materials). Fire retardant PP materials also offer high chemical resistance in corrosive environments, organic solvents, degreasing agents, and electrolytic attack.

In other arrangements, use of PP material could be used with a tetrafluoroethylene ( PTFE) external coating for exploiting (at the least) its high resistance to high temperature and hydrophobic, not-wetting capabilities. The skilled reader would be aware of appropriate materials that could be used to form each of the modules 10i, IO2, IO3 (and modules 310i, 3102, 3103) so as to operate in accordance with the principles described herein. Metallic materials, such as for example, appropriate grades of aluminium can also be used to form the barriers 5, 305 and respective modules.

[0170] Embodiments of the barriers 5, 305 (and any one or more of its constituent modules) may be formed from, at least in part, graphene. In this manner, and as the skilled reader will appreciate, graphene has become known as one of the most promising nanomaterials because of its unique combination of properties: being one of the most thinnest yet strongest materials; it conducts heat better than many other materials; is a good conductor of electricity; it is optically transparent but so dense as to be impermeable to gases (for example, not even helium (the smallest gas atom), can pass through graphene). In other embodiments, the barriers 5, 305 (and any one or more constituent modules) may be formed from, at least in part, a graphene enhanced polymer for providing a lighter weight barrier manufactured to provide good heat resistance and strength, for use in situations, for example, where the barriers are used in areas less susceptible to fire but more susceptible to flooding. Such barriers could be manufactured using standard injection and/or reaction injection molding (RIM) techniques.

[0171] While the barrier structures described herein have portability in mind, they may be formed or configured so as to be permanently located/positioned. Thus, the skilled reader would readily appreciate that the principles described herein could be used to form permanent barrier assemblies/structures.

[0172] As foreshadowed, the principles upon which the modular barrier 5 are based can also be used to provide a barrier or modular barrier structure to assist in the mitigation or containing of developing/rising flood waters in a flood crisis event.

[0173] Figures 8 to 13 show an embodiment of a (modularly formed) barrier 305 that can be operable for use as a barrier to contain, to the extent possible, the progression of flood waters to an area separated by way of an assembly/structure of such barriers 305. While not specifically shown in Figures 8 to 13, any of the features described and shown in respect of the barrier 5 may be incorporated, either individually or in combination, with the barrier 305 as required. Omission of such features from that shown in Figure 8 to 13 is merely for explanative convenience.

[0174] Figure 8 shows an end view of the barrier 305 showing, arranged in stacked relation (in an interconnectable/registrable manner as described above), upper/top 3103, middle 3102, and base constituent modules 310i used in forming the barrier’s body. On assembly, the constituent modules provide the barrier 305 so as to comprise front 315 and rear 320 faces/sides. In one form, the height of each module is, for example, about 1 meter providing a total barrier height of about 3 meters. In another form, the length of each constituent module is about 2.1 meters, but the skilled reader would appreciate that the barrier/modules could be formed so as to be of any appropriate length, height, and/or width.

[0175] As seen in Figure 8, the top module 3103 comprises two drain units 314 positioned on the module’s respective rear side/face 320. In this regard, reference is made to Figure 12 showing the relative positioning of each of the two drain units 314 - located near respective lowermost opposite corner regions adjacent respective sides 328, 326. Furthermore, likewise, the middle module 3102 also comprises two drain units 314 positioned on the module’s respective rear side/face 320 near respective lowermost opposite corner regions adjacent respective sides 328, 326.

[0176] As also seen in Figure 8 both the base 310i and the middle module 3102 are each provided with valves 316 near respective upper edges (at about respective upper corner regions) of the module’s respective rear side/face 320 adjacent respective sides 328, 326. The valves 316 are configured operable for use in filling the respective modules with water or of any desired substance to suit the emergency at hand. In this regard, reference is made to Figure 10 (showing the base module 310i) showing the relative positioning of each of the (filling) valves 316 - being near the upper most opposite corner regions. Of course, the valves 316 (or other form of port/opening) could be on the front face 315 and indeed could be configured to receive flood waters. In doing so the weight of the barrier 10 can be proportional to the height of the rising flood water. Appropriate filtration could be provided to exclude material carried by the floor water from entering the barrier.

[0177] In one form, each of the constituent modules 310i , 3102, 3103 are fluidly linked (in the manner described above) so that the formed barrier 305 may serve as a single source of water (or whatever media is selected to be accommodated). For example, in one form, one or both of the drains 314 of the module 3103 may be fluidically connected with respective/corresponding adjacent valves 316 of the module 3102. Likewise, one or both of the drains 314 of the module 3102 may be fluidically connected with respective/corresponding adjacent valves 316 of the module 310i. In this manner, each of the modules of the barrier 305 can be placed in fluid communication with each other.

[0178] Both of Figures 11 and 12 show respective front (showing respective side/face 315) and rear (showing respective side/face 320) elevation views of the top module 3103 provided with an overlap portion 318 which extends outward a finite distance (for example, about 80 to 100mm) from the generally vertically extending edge/side 326 of the module 3103. The extension of the overlap portion 318 is configured so as extend along the full side edge of the deflecting face 315 of the module 3103. The extension of the overlap portion 318 can be any appropriate distance beyond the relevant edge/side from which it extends from.

[0179] The overlap portion 318 is configured so as to overlap with a corresponding top module 3103 of an adjacently disposed barrier or barrier module, for example, 305” (not shown, but implied with reference to the arrangement of the adjacently disposed barriers 5, 5’, 5” shown in Figure 1). In this manner, in operating to deflect thermal radiation and/or contain flood waters, the overlapping portions 318 seek to reduce any gaps between adjacent disposed modules or adjacently disposed barriers to improve functional performance in mitigating against characteristics (eg. radiant heat, water) intrinsic of the relevant threat passing the formed barrier assembly/structure.

Accordingly, the overlapable regions 318 (and indeed 319 described below) seek to stop both heat and water bleeding through/between the adjacently disposed barriers when assembled, or constituent modules thereof, as much as is practicable in individual circumstances. These overlapable regions (318, 319) can also be configured so as to act as stabilisers and locators so can be configured/designed so as to be larger/smaller than shown in the Figures as might be required.

[0180] Figures 9 and 10 show front (showing respective side/face 315) and rear (showing respective side/face 320) elevation views respectively of the base module 310i, and Figure 13 shows an isometric view of same. Both of Figures 9 and 10 show the base module 310i having an overlap portion 318 extending substantially from and along its generally vertically aligned/extending side 326 (in the same manner as that for the top module 3103), as well as a second overlap portion 319 (shown also in Figure 8 as applied to both the base 310i and the middle 3102 modules) which extends a finite distance (as with the overlap portion 318, of about 80 to 100mm) outward/upward from and substantially along the uppermost edge/side of the base module 310i of the side/face 315, and continues across the full length of the module. The overlap portion 319 serves to overlap with the lower region of the side/face 315 of the middle module 3102. Similar configuration of the overlap portions 318, 319 as shown in Figures 9 and 10 for the module 310i, is also applied to the middle module 3102. The extension of the overlap portion 319 can be any appropriate distance beyond the relevant edge/side from which it extends from. Again, in operating to deflect thermal radiation and/or flood waters, whichever the case, the overlapping portions 318, 319 (as used on all modules) seek to reduce permeability between adjacently disposed modules, or adjacently disposed modular barriers, to improve functional performance in deflecting thermal radiation and/or containing flood waters as might be required.

[0181] The skilled reader will appreciate that the overlap portions 318, 319 can be configured, either individually or in combination with each other, in any manner with any of the relevant modules/barriers so as to reduce permeability of a resulting broader barrier assembly/structure.

[0182] In some embodiments, the coupling of respective bodies of adjacent barriers in forming an assembly/structure of barriers can be configured so as to establish, to the extent possible, a fluidic like seal therebetween for seeking to reduce the permeability (of thermal radiation and/or flood water, for example) of the barrier assembly so formed. In such embodiments, the fluidic like seal can be formed by way of an interaction of interfacing portions of respective barrier/module bodies. For example, such an interaction could be achieved due to a change in the physical form of any of the relevant interfacing connecting/coupling portions of the respective bodies/modules (for example, the interaction could result due to any of the relevant interfacing portions increasing in size, or bulging to cause sufficient interference for reducing any interfacing gaps). As one example, the opposite sides 26, 28 of the barrier 5 could be configured by way of the engineering of the material/geometric form (for example, local stiffness/rigidity) of the relevant side portions and/or the selection of the relevant materials so that the sides (or portions thereof) deform (eg. bulge) outward following filling of the respective modules and abut against respective portions of an adjacently disposed barrier/module, whether such barrier/module is behaving in the same manner or not. This principle could also be used between adjacently disposed constituent modules when stacked vertically for forming the body of a barrier. Thus, the interference due to deforming/bulging portions of the modules can be used to reduce permeability both vertically across the height of a barrier (5, 305) formed by a modular stack of modules and horizontally across adjacently disposed barriers in forming a broader barrier assembly or structure. In this manner, the deforming or bulging/portions/sides (eg. left/right sides, and or upper/lower sides) from one or both adjacently disposed barriers, or adjacently disposed (stacked) modules, can be used to create a fluidic (to the extent possible) seal therebetween for seeking to reduce permeability of the resulting formed barrier assembly/structure.

[0183] Alternatively, the fluidic like seal could be formed using one or more additional component(s) (such as for example, sealing elements, membranes, substrates) placed between coupled bodies, more specifically, where, for example, bodies are not coupled in the same orientation.

[0184] Figures 9, 10, and 13 also show a Storz valve 317 (for example, a 65mm Storz fire hose type connection) provided in the base module 310i adjacent (inward of) the lowermost left-hand corner region. Provision of the Storz valve 317 allows the formed barrier 305 to be used as an auxiliary water tank. In this manner, and as noted above, when each of the modules 310i, 3102, 3103 are fluidly linked, each module can drain into the one below to allow water to be taken from a Storz connector by anyone using a compatible Fire hose adaptor (eg. a 65mm Storz adapter). The skilled reader will appreciate that any of the modules may be provided with a Storz adapter/valve.

[0185] As shown in Figure 13, the overlap portion 319 is provided with three sets of lifting eyes 323 spaced along its extension across the length of the base module 310i. As the skilled reader will appreciate, provision of the lifting eyes 323 assists in deployment of the module/barrier. Furthermore, the base module 310i is provided with three retaining/lifting lugs 321 (substantially opposite the lifting eyes 323) for use in, in at least one form, connecting the base module 310i with the mid module 3102 and or for use in deployment/lifting/assembly purposes. Of course, the lifting eyes 323 and retaining/lifting lugs 321 can be used for any convenient purpose when handling the modules.

[0186] While not shown in specific detail in Figures 8 to 13, the form, configuration, construction of the middle module 3102 is substantially the same as that of the base module 310i (with or without a Storz valve/adapter).

[0187] Consistent with that shown in Figure 2, a top surface of the base module 310i could be provided with two apertures 352 at each end for fluid filling purposes (for example, in addition to the use of filling valves 316). [0188] The modules 310i, 3102, 3103 of the modular barrier 305 can be formed using any of the materials described above in relation to the modules 10i, 102, IO3 for the barrier 5. In one form, each of the modules 310i, 3102, 3103 (and indeed the modules 10i, IO2,

IO3) are formed from an appropriate grade aluminium material.

[0189] The body/modules of the barrier 5, 305 or any of their constituent modules (10i, IO2, IO3, 310i, 3102, 3103) may each comprise, host, or carry (at any portion/region thereon) a means of determining the location or position of the relevant body (or module) and or a means for identifying the relevant host body/module (from others that might be part of a larger barrier assembly or structure). In this manner, the location/position of the relevant body/module may be monitored, either actively or passively. For example, such monitoring of the location/position of the relevant bodies of the barrier assembly/structure, or any of the constituent modules, has the potential to aid significantly in retrieval operations following a bush/forest fire event.

[0190] Each of the modules 310i , 3102, 3103 can be configured so as to hold an intended volume of media, eg. water, thermo-gel substance, etc. In one form, example volumes of media arranged to be held by the modules 310i, 3102, 3103 may be as follows: the volume of media held by the base module 310i may be about 1,740 litres; the volume of media held by the middle module 3102 may be about 1,200 litres; and the volume of media held by the upper/top module 3103 may be about 580 litres. Of course, such volumes can be revised as appropriate.

[0191] In one form, the body/module(s) may comprise, host, or carry a global positioning system (GPS) device, such as for example a GPS receiver or transmitter device capable of receiving and broadcasting/transmitting the position of the relevant body/module for receipt using any suitable receiving device. The body/module(s) may comprise, host, or carry a radio frequency identification (RFID) hardware (passive or active) configured for storing an identifier (for example, a unique identifier) associated with the relevant body/constituent module. In this manner, each module, for example, can be associated with a unique identification code so that each can be readily identified when required.

[0192] The body/modules may each comprise circuitry configured operable with the GPS receiver or GPS transmitter so as to store GPS data and or transmit GPS data received from either. In one embodiment, the circuitry is configured operable with the RFID hardware for storing identification data for transmission purposes. Such circuitry may comprise a processor module for enabling any of data handling, data receiving, data transfer, data transmitting events. The body/modules may comprise a power source (for example, battery, solar) configured for powering any circuitry or hardware required for enabling operation of hardware/software for determining the location/position of the relevant body or module, RFID hardware, and or for transmitting related data at regular intervals or otherwise. The position of the relevant host body/module can be broadcast or transmitted for receipt by any suitable receiving device. In this manner, the position and identification of each host body or constituent module can be monitored. The circuitry may be configured operable with a communication module that is in communication with a network or system remote from the barrier. Such a network/system may be part of a national or global communication network.

[0193] The body/modules of the barrier may be provided with one or more sensor modules for monitoring purposes (for example, for real-time monitoring/surveillance or otherwise). Any such sensor modules may comprise any one or more of the following: thermal (eg. temperature) sensors, infrared (IR) sensors, humidity (eg, relative humidity) sensors, moisture sensors, air temperature sensors, gas sensors, smoke sensors. The data of any such sensors may be logged locally and or transmitted (in real-time or in an intermittently manner) using any appropriate data transmission protocol. The latter described capability offers utility where barriers are set remotely and not overseen by human operators due to the proximity of a fire, for example. In some embodiments, transmitter devices may be developed and employed (for example, set within the body of one of the barrier units or constituent modules) for transmitting real time temperature information (or other characteristic information of value) to one or more authorities or relevant bodies involved in a crisis response operation. Such functionality can be seen, in at least one aspect, as a complementary ‘add-on’ to location monitoring functionality using GPS (described above) or AIS technology (described below).

[0194] For emergency purposes, the body of the barrier, or any of the constituent modules, may each comprise, host, or carry a means operable for sending, by way of the circuitry, an emergency transmission triggered by a user (at the barrier, body, or module), which transmission comprises at least any of the following: the location/position of the host body or module, the identifier associated with the host body or constituent module. In this manner, a user has a means for signaling an alert which includes their location (being that of the relevant body/module) in an emergency situation by way of the barrier structure (or any of its constituent modules).

[0195] The skilled reader would readily appreciate that other forms of data transmission are possible, such as for example, systems employing high (or very high, or ultra-high) frequency radio technology, or systems which incorporate communications technology similar to that used in marine environments such as for example, the widely used automatic identification system (AIS) communications technology.

[0196] It will be appreciated that future patent applications maybe filed in Australia or overseas on the basis of, or claiming priority from, the present application.

[0197] It is to be understood that the following claims are provided by way of example only and are not intended to limit the scope of what may be claimed in any such future application. Features may be added to or omitted from the provisional claims at a later date so as to further define or re-define the invention or inventions.

Claims

1. A barrier comprising a body configured for providing a face for (i) deflecting oncoming thermal radiation upwards of the barrier, and for (ii) substantially containing flood water(s).

2. A barrier according to claim 1 , wherein the body is formed from more than one constituent units or modules all of which are configured so as to contribute so as to provide the face.

3. A barrier according to claim 2, wherein the constituent units are coupled so as to provide a fluidic seal therebetween.

4. A barrier according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the shape of the face is configured to be of substantially planar form and aligned so as to deflect oncoming thermal radiation upwards of the barrier and to direct any flood water along a length of the barrier.

5. A barrier according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the body is of a shell like form with a hollow inside for receiving a weight.

6. A barrier according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein opposites sides of the body are arranged substantially in convergent relation with one another.

7. A barrier according to claim 6, wherein the body is of a generally triangular or truncated triangular form in vertical cross-section, having a base, proximal the supporting ground, and converging by way of relative alignment of the substantially planar sides so as to provide an apex, or truncated apex, spaced vertically forming an uppermost end from the base.

8. A barrier according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the barrier comprises a medium associable with one or more portions of the body and operable for reflecting and or absorbing thermal radiation.

9. A barrier according to claim 8, wherein the medium is connectable with the body and arranged so as to extend substantially across one or more portions of the body.

10. A barrier according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the body of the barrier provides one or more coupling arrangements provided at one or both of spaced apart ends of the body that join the opposite sides of the body.

11. A barrier according to claim 10, wherein the or each coupling arrangement is one which is releasable.

12. A barrier according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the or each coupling arrangement is configured so as to enable adjacently coupled barriers to be in a hinged relation with each other.

13. A barrier according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the coupling arrangement provides a fluidic seal between ends of adjacent bodies.

14. A barrier according to claim 13, wherein the fluidic seal is formed by interaction of adjacently disposed portions of respective barrier bodies or constituent modules.

15. A barrier according to any one of claims 2 to 15, wherein each of the constituent modules are arranged or assembled in stacked relation in forming the body of the barrier.

16. A barrier according to claim 15, wherein each of the constituent modules are configured so as to be registrable in stacked relation in forming the body of the barrier.

17. A barrier according to claim 16, wherein registrability between adjacently stacked constituent modules involves a plurality of formations which extend from a side of one of the adjacently stacked constituent modules and are each receivable in a corresponding recess provided in a side of the other of the adjacently stacked constituent modules.

18. A barrier according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the body of the barrier may be braced across one or both sides of the body using an appropriate bracing assembly so as to receive the weight of flood waters on the face.

19. A barrier according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the body receives a weight conferring media.

20. A barrier according to claim 19, wherein the weight conferring media comprises a thermo-gel substance operable as an extinguishant and or fire retardant.

21. A barrier according to claim 19, wherein the weight conferring media is water that is held within a hollow of the body.

22. A barrier according to claim 20, wherein barrier is configured to receive the water from flood waters.

23. A barrier according to any one of claims 19 to 22, wherein the body, or any of the constituent modules forming the body, is/are configured having one or more first apertures or openings through which the weight conferring media can be introduced into respective interior region(s), and or one or more second apertures or openings through which the weight conferring media can be removed from respective interior region(s).

24. A barrier according to claim 23, wherein the body, or any of the constituent modules forming the body, is/are configured having one or more valves, standard size fire and or garden hose connections or fittings.

25. A barrier according to any one of claims 1 to 24, wherein the barrier comprises a first constituent module providing a base of the barrier, and another constituent module providing an apex of the barrier.

26. A barrier according to any one of claims 1 to 24, wherein the body is formed from three constituent modules, a first constituent module providing a base of the barrier, another constituent module providing an apex of the barrier, and a further constituent module provided intermediate the constituent modules forming the base and the apex of the barrier, whereby said constituent modules are each configured so as to form the deflecting face of the body when assembled together in stacked relation.

27. A barrier according to any one of claims 1 to 26, wherein the body of the barrier, or any of the constituent modules that form the body, each comprise, host, or carry a positioning system capable of receiving, broadcasting or transmitting the location/position of the relevant body or module for receipt by any suitable receiving device.

28. A barrier according to any one of claims 1 to 26, wherein the body of the barrier, or any of the constituent modules that form the body, each comprise, host, or carry an identification module configured for storing an identifier associated with the relevant body/module.

29. A barrier comprising: a body configured for providing a deflecting face for deflecting oncoming thermal radiation upwards of the barrier, the body formed of stackable modules, where the modules are connected end to end with the end to end connection having an interlock and overlap to substantially prevent fluid from passing from the deflecting face to an opposite side of the barrier.

30. A barrier comprising: a body configured for providing a face for containing flood water(s) and a heat shield for deflecting a fire front.

31. A barrier comprising: a body configured for providing a face for containing flood water(s) and a hollow for receiving the water for storage.

32. A barrier comprising a body configured for providing a face for (i) deflecting oncoming thermal radiation upwards of the barrier, and a face for (ii) substantially containing flood water(s).