BE1030492B1 - POLE FOR ABSORBING HIGH ENERGY SHOCK - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a shock-absorbing post for collision protection comprising a base element, a primary shock element, at least one internal shock element and connecting elements, wherein the base element comprises a base plate and a hollow connection profile, wherein the connection profile is attached to the base plate and extends perpendicularly to the bottom plate, wherein the primary shock element and the at least one internal shock element are hollow profiles extending perpendicular to the bottom plate, wherein the connecting profile is placed within the primary shock element, wherein the at least one internal shock element has a shorter length than the primary shock element, and wherein the at least one internal shock element is placed at the bottom plate within the connection profile. The invention also relates to a method and a use.

Description

POLE FOR ABSORBING HIGH ENERGY SHOCK

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a shock absorbing post for protection against collisions, more particularly for protection against high energy shock impacts. The present invention relates to a method for assembling such a shock absorbing post and to a use of the shock absorbing post. pole and/or the method for collision protection withstand a shock of at least 12 KJ].

STATE OF THE TECHNOLOGY

Shock-absorbing posts for collision protection are known and are mainly used to reduce the risk of injury to people or to prevent damage to infrastructure or valuable goods. Such bollards are used, for example, in parking lots, in warehouses or industrial installations, where there is mixed traffic of vehicles and people or where heavy vehicles, such as forklift trucks or trucks, can cause significant damage to a building, infrastructure or stored goods.

A first type of known shock-absorbing posts has a metal base element to which a vertical tube is screwed. The tube is made of an elastically deformable material. However, this type of shock-absorbing piles is not suitable for absorbing a high energy shock, for example a shock of more than 3 kJ. During an impact, the tube bends and cuts the metal base element in the tube, damaging the tube. High stresses are created in the pipe around the bolts, causing further damage and very often failure of the shock-absorbing post.

A second type of known shock-absorbing posts also has a metal base member, onto which a first elastically deformable tube is pressed and bolted. Foam materials are attached to the surfaces of the first tube to absorb some of the shock. A second elastically deformable tube is placed over the first tube and the foam materials. This type of shock-absorbing post is also not able to withstand collisions with high energy shocks.

In the event of a collision, the second tube will slide over the first tube. The second tube deforms only slightly, releasing only a small part of the energy

© BE2022/5333 shock is absorbed by the second tube and the foam materials. Most of the energy is absorbed by the first tube, often resulting in the failure of the first tube near the metal base element.

The present invention aims to find a solution for at least some of the above-mentioned problems and disadvantages.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention and embodiments thereof serve to provide a solution for one or more of the above disadvantages. To this end, the present invention relates to a shock-absorbing post for collision protection according to claim 1.

This shock-absorbing pile is advantageous because it can absorb high energy shocks of more than 3 k] through the use of a primary shock element and at least one internal shock element. Due to the connecting elements, the primary shock element will not slide over the at least one internal shock element, causing it to primary shock element must absorb its share of the shock energy and it is avoided that the shock energy is mainly absorbed by the at least one internal shock element, resulting in a failure of the at least one internal shock element. Because the at least one internal shock element has a shorter length than the primary shock element, the primary shock element will first deform elastically and only when the primary shock element is sufficiently bent and it touches at least one internal shock element will the at least one internal shock element begin to elastically deform to deform and absorb energy. The shock-absorbing pile gradually becomes stiffer under elastic deformation. The placement of the at least one internal shock element in the connection profile is especially advantageous to prevent the connection profile from cutting into the inside of the primary shock element, resulting in structural damage to the shock-absorbing pile and ultimately its failure. When bending, the primary shock element will mainly contact the at least one internal shock element and not or only to a limited extent the connecting profile.

Preferred embodiments of the shock-absorbing pile are shown in one of claims 2-10.

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A specific preferred embodiment relates to an invention according to claim 4.

This embodiment is especially favorable for a long shock-absorbing pile, where the high energy shock of more than 3 kJ is expected at a relatively high level above the surface. This could lead to the buckling of the shock-absorbing post. Simply increasing the height of at least one internal shock element would make the shock-absorbing post stiffer, thus avoiding the buckling of the shock-absorbing post, but it would also increase the elastic deformation of the shock-absorbing post and therefore the absorption of the shock energy. The shock energy will be largely transferred to the base element. This can cause the base element to crack, the shock-absorbing post to separate from the surface and/or the surface to be damaged. In each of these cases, the shock-absorbing post failed. By adding an anti-buckling element, which is placed in the at least one internal shock element and has a longer length than the at least one internal shock element, buckling of the shock-absorbing pile is prevented, while the shock-absorbing pile still retains the high energy of can absorb the shock. Because the shock is at a high level, a level above the at least one internal shock element, and because the anti-buckling element is not in contact with the primary shock element, the primary shock element will elastically deform as before and first absorb the energy of the shock. Before the primary shock element bends too much and risks buckling, the primary shock element touches the anti-buckling element and some of the shock energy is transferred to the anti-buckling element. With further elastic deformation of the primary shock element, it becomes at least one internal shock element also elastically deformed and the high energy of the shock at a high level above the surface is successfully absorbed in the nel shock absorbing pile.

In a second aspect, the present invention concerns a method according to claim il.

This method is very beneficial because it provides a shock absorbing pile that can withstand a high energy shock, even higher than 3 Kk] without the shock absorbing pile failing. The primary shock element, the base element nor at least one internal shock element is damaged by impact. The shock-absorbing post remains firmly attached to the surface, without

+ BE2022/5333 to damage the surface. In the event that a part of the shock-absorbing post is damaged, the shock-absorbing post can be easily dismantled and the damaged part can be easily replaced, unlike a shock-absorbing post where a tube is pressed onto the base element. The method also allows flexible mounting of the shock absorbing post, depending on the expected shock energy to be withstood and the level above the surface where the shock can be expected, by simply changing the number of internal shock elements and the length of the internal shock elements .

Preferred embodiments of the method are shown in one of claims 12-14,

In a third aspect, the present invention concerns a use according to claim 15,

The advantageous effect of its use as described herein is that it can provide crash protection that can withstand an impact of at least 12 KJ, that can be easily repaired in the event of damage and that can be adjusted in a flexible manner depending on the expected shock energy and the level above the surface where the shock can be expected.

DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Figure 14 shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a shock-absorbing pile according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 1B shows a sectional view of the shock absorbing post of Figure 1A,

Figure 2A shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a shock-absorbing pile, similar to the shock-absorbing pile of Figure 1A, but with additional elements,

Figure 2B shows a sectional view of the shock absorbing post of Figure 2A,

Figure 3A shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a shock-absorbing pile, similar to the shock-absorbing pile of Figure

2A, but with an external shock element and two internal shock elements of a different length than Figure 2A,

Figure 3B shows a cross-sectional view of the shock absorbing post of Figure 3A. 5

Figure 4A shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a shock-absorbing pile, similar to the shock-absorbing pile of Figure

ZA, but with only one internal shock element and with an anti-buckling element.

Figure 48 shows a sectional view of the shock absorbing post of Figure 4A,

Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional view of a shock absorbing pile similar to the shock absorbing pile of Figure 4A, while absorbing a shock at a high level above the surface.

Figure SA shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a shock-absorbing pile, similar to the shock-absorbing pile of Figure 2A, but without an external shock element.

Figure 6B shows a cross-sectional view of the shock absorbing post of Figure 6A.

Figure 7A shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a shock-absorbing pile, similar to the shock-absorbing pile of Figure 2A, but with only one internal shock element, more specifically the longest internal shock element,

Figure 7B shows a cross-sectional view of the shock absorbing post of Figure 7A.

Figure SA shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a shock-absorbing pile, similar to the shock-absorbing pile of Figure 7A, but without an external shock element.

Figure 8B shows a cross-sectional view of the shock absorbing post of Figure

S.A.,

Figure 9A shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a shock-absorbing pile, similar to the shock-absorbing pile of Figure 2A, but with only one internal shock element, more specifically the shortest internal shock element.

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Figure 98 shows a cross-sectional view of the shock absorbing post of Figure

SA.

Figure 104 Shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a shock-absorbing pile, similar to the shock-absorbing pile of Figure

SA, but without an external shock element.

Figure 10B shows a cross-sectional view of the shock absorbing post of Figure 10A.

Figure 114 shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a shock-absorbing pile, similar to the shock-absorbing pile of Figure 4A, but without an external shock element and only one internal shock element with a length equal to the length of the anti-buckling element of the shock-absorbing pile from Figure 4A,

Figure 118 shows a cross-sectional view of the shock absorbing post of Figure ilA.

Figure 124 shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a shock-absorbing pile, similar to the shock-absorbing pile of Figure 2A, but with an external shock element and two internal shock elements with a different length than Figure 2A and with an additional internal shock element,

Figure 12B shows a cross-sectional view of the shock absorbing post of Figure 12A.

Figure 13A shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a shock-absorbing pile with an external shock element, internal shock elements and an anti-buckling element formed as a single profile.

Figure 13B shows a cross-sectional view of the shock absorbing post of Figure 13A.

Figure 144 shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a shock absorbing pile with a primary shock element of shorter length and smaller diameter compared to the shock absorbing pile of Figure 2A, with no external shock elements and only one internal shock element.

Figure 14B shows a cross-sectional view of the shock absorbing post of Figure 14A.

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Figure 154 shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a shock-absorbing pile, similar to the shock-absorbing pile of Figure 14A, but with an internal shock element of longer length compared to the shock-absorbing pile of Figure 14A.

Figure 158 shows a cross-sectional view of the shock absorbing post of Figure i5A.

Figure 164 shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a shock-absorbing pile, similar to the shock-absorbing pile of Figure i4A, but with an additional internal shock element.

Figure 16B shows a cross-sectional view of the shock absorbing post of Figure 16A.

Figure 174 shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a shock-absorbing pile, similar to the shock-absorbing pile of Figure 16A, but with internal shock elements of a different length than the shock-absorbing pile of Figure 16A,

Figure 17B shows a cross-sectional view of the shock absorbing post of Figure 17A.

Figure 18A shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a shock-absorbing pile, similar to the shock-absorbing pile of Figure 14A, but with an internal shock element of shorter length compared to the shock-absorbing pile of Figure 14A and with an anti-buckling element.

Figure 188 shows a cross-sectional view of the shock absorbing post of Figure 1BA.

Figure 19A shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a shock-absorbing post according to an embodiment of the invention, wherein the shock-absorbing post comprises a connector for connecting a horizontal rail to the shock-absorbing post,

Figure 19B shows a sectional view of the shock absorbing post of Figure 19A,

Figure 20A shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a shock-absorbing pile, similar to the shock-absorbing pile of Figure 1SA, but with additional elements.

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Figure 20B shows a cross-sectional view of the shock absorbing post of Figure 20A.

Figure 21A shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a shock-absorbing pile, similar to the shock-absorbing pile of Figure 4A, but with a primary shock element and an anti-buckling element with a larger diameter, and a first external shock element and a first internal shock element with a larger diameter and a shorter length.

Figure 21B shows a cross-sectional view of the shock absorbing post of Figure 21A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in the description of the invention, including technical and scientific terms, have the meanings commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. By way of further guidance, definitions included to better appreciate the teachings of the present invention,

As used herein, the following terms have the following meanings: 'A', 'the' and 'it', as used herein, include both singular and plural referents unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. By way of example, ' a sub-fund' to one or more sub-funds, 'Comprise', 'comprising' and 'includes' and 'consisting of' as used herein are synonymous with 'containing', 'containing', 'containing' or 'involving', 'involving' ', 'involves' and are inclusive or open terms that specify the presence of what follows (e.g. a component) and exclude the presence of additional, non-genreed components, features, elements, parts, steps, which are well known in the state of the art or described therein, does not matter.

Furthermore, the terms 'first', 'second', 'third' and the like are used in the description and in the claims to distinguish similar elements and not necessarily to describe an order, either sequential or chronological, unless otherwise indicated. it is understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances

9 BE2022/5333 and that the embodiments of the invention described herein are suitable for operating in a different order than described or shown herein.

Quoting numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numbers and fractions included within that range, as well as the quoted endpoints.

While the terms 'one or more' or 'at least one', such as one or more or at least one member(s) of a group of members, is self-explanatory, the term includes by means! of further explanation, including a reference to one of the members, or to two or more of the members, such as every 23, 24, 25, 26 or 27, etc. of the members, and to all mentioned members,

Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" means that a specific feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, occurrence of the phrases "in one embodiment" or 'in an embodiment' at various places throughout this specification do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment, but may do so. Furthermore, the specific features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments. Furthermore, while some of the embodiments described herein include some, but not others, include features included in other embodiments, combinations of features of different embodiments are intended to be within the scope of the invention, and constitute different embodiments as would be understood by one skilled in the art. For example, in the following claims, each of the claimed embodiments may be included in any combination can be used.

In the context of this document, extending substantially perpendicular to a plane, for example a surface or a plate, means that the angle between a direction in which something extends on the plane and the plane is 90° + 15°, preferably 90 ° + 10°, more preferably 90° + 5° and even more preferably 90° + 3°,

In the context of this document, substantially parallel means that two directions make an angle of maximum 15°, preferably maximum 10°, more preferably maximum 5° and even more preferably maximum 3°,

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In the context of this document, when referring to the energy that a shock absorbing pile can withstand, the shock absorbing pile has been tested according to the PAS13:2017 standard.

In a first aspect, the invention concerns a shock-absorbing post for collision protection.

In a preferred embodiment, the shock absorbing post includes a base element for mounting the absorbent post to a surface, a primary shock element for absorbing a shock from a collision, connecting elements for connecting the primary shock element to the base element and at least one internal shock element .

The base element comprises a bottom plate and a hollow connecting profile for connecting the primary shock element to the base element using the connecting elements. The base element is preferably made of metal, more preferably steel. The base plate is intended to be placed with one side on the surface, The surface is for example a concrete floor of a warehouse or an asfall surface of a parking lot, The base plate includes holes for attaching the base element to the surface with bolts, screws, anchors or other suitable means. The bottom plate comprises at least four holes, preferably at least five and more preferably at least six holes. The holes are preferably evenly distributed around the center of the bottom plate. Optionally, the base plate is provided with an extra hole in the middle to prevent plastic deformation of the base plate in the event of impact. The connecting profile is firmly attached to the base plate. The connecting profile is preferably welded to the bottom plate. The connecting profile extends along a longitudinal direction. The connecting profile extends almost perpendicular to the bottom plate. This means that the longitudinal direction of the connecting profile is almost perpendicular to the base plate and when placed on a surface, almost perpendicular to the surface.

The connecting profile is a hollow profile.

The primary shock element is a hollow profile made of a polymer, preferably a polyolefin, such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) and polybutylene (PB), and more preferably polypropylene (PP). The primary shock element extends in a longitudinal direction. The primary shock element extends almost perpendicular to the bottom plate. This means that the longitudinal direction of the connecting profile and the longitudinal direction of the primary shock element are almost parallel,

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The connecting profile is placed within the primary impact element. Consequently, the connecting profile cannot be directly impacted during a collision. The connecting profile is protected against collisions by the primary shock element.

The primary shock element is connected to the connecting profile by means of the connecting elements. Non-exhaustive examples of connecting elements are screws, bolts, bolts and nuts, rivets, wedges, etc.

The at least one internal shock element is a hollow profile made of a polymer, preferably a polyolefin, such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) and polybutylene (PB), and more preferably polypropylene (PP). The material may differ from or equal to the material from which the primary shock element is made. Preferably the material is equal to the material from which the primary shock element is made. This is beneficial when recycling the shock-absorbing post. The at least one internal shock element extends in a longitudinal direction. The at least one internal shock element extends almost perpendicular to the bottom plate. This means that the longitudinal direction of the connecting profile, the longitudinal direction of the primary shock element and the longitudinal direction of the at least one internal shock element are virtually parallel. The at least one internal shock element has a shorter length than the primary shock element. Said length is measured perpendicularly from the bottom plate to an opposite end of the at least one internal shock element, respectively an opposite end of the primary shock element. This means that in the case of multiple internal shock elements, each internal shock element has a length that is shorter than the length of the primary shock element. The at least one internal shock element has a longer length than the connecting profile. Said length is measured perpendicularly from the bottom plate to an opposite end of the at least one internal shock element, respectively an opposite end of the primary shock element. This means that in the case of multiple internal shock elements, each internal shock element has a length that is longer than the length of the connecting profile. The at least one internal shock element is placed at the bottom plate within the connection profile. As a result, the connection profile surrounds the at least one internal shock element on the side of the bottom plate and the at least one internal shock element protrudes from the connection profile.

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A shock-absorbing pile according to the present embodiment is advantageous because it can absorb high energy shocks of more than 3 kJ through the use of a primary shock element and at least one internal shock element. Due to the connecting elements, the primary shock element will not slide over the at least one internal shock element, as a result of which the primary shock element must absorb its share of the shock energy and the shock energy is prevented from being mainly absorbed by the at least one internal shock element, resulting in a failure. of the at least one internal shock element. Because the at least one internal shock element has a shorter length than the primary shock element, the primary shock element will first deform elastically and only when the primary shock element is sufficiently bent and it touches at least one internal shock element will the at least one internal shock element begin to elastically deform to deform and absorb energy, The shock-absorbing pile gradually becomes stiffer during elastic deformation. The placement of at least one internal shock element in the connection profile is especially advantageous to prevent the connection profile from cutting into the inside of the primary shock element, resulting in structural damage to the shock-absorbing pile and ultimately its failure. the primary shock element mainly touches the at least one internal shock element and not or only to a limited extent the connection profile,

In a preferred embodiment, the shock-absorbing post comprises at least one external shock element. The at least one external shock element is a hollow profile made of a polymer, preferably a polyolefin, such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) and polybutylene (PB), and more preferably polypropylene (PP). The material may be different from or the same as the material from which the primary shock element and/or the at least one internal shock element are made. Preferably the material is the same as the material from which the primary shock element and the at least one internal shock element are made. This is beneficial when recycling the shock-absorbing pile. The at least one external shock element extends in a longitudinal direction. The at least one external shock element extends almost perpendicular to the bottom plate. This means that the longitudinal direction of the connecting profile, the longitudinal direction of the primary shock element, the longitudinal direction of the at least one internal shock element and the longitudinal direction of at least the external shock element are almost parallel. The at least one external shock element has a shorter length than the primary shock element. The at least one external shock element has a longer length than the at least one internal one

13 BE2022/5333 shock element. Said lengths are measured perpendicularly from the bottom plate to an opposite end of the at least one external shock element, an opposite end of the primary shock element and an opposite end of the at least one internal shock element, respectively. This means that in the case of multiple external shock elements, each external shock element has a length that is shorter than the length of the primary shock element and that each external shock element has a length that is longer than the length of at least one internal shock element, which in the case of multiple internal shock elements means that each external shock element has a length that is longer than the length of each internal shock element. The at least one external shock element is placed within the primary shock element. The at least one external shock element is placed at the bottom plate outside the connecting profile. As a result, the at least one external shock element surrounds the connection profile on the side of the bottom plate.

This embodiment is particularly advantageous with a very high shock energy of, for example, more than 10 kJ. For such a shock it is necessary to have a shock absorbing post that is strong, but can still deform elastically to absorb the energy of the shock. A simple reinforcement of the primary shock element would improve the ability to deform elastically and the ability to absorb shock energy, increasing the risk of damage to the primary shock element and failure of the shock absorbing post. The at least one external shock element is advantageous because the primary shock element can still easily deform elastically and absorb energy due to the shorter length of the at least one external shock element, but it will not break because it is more quickly supported by the at least one external shock element shock element than by the at least one internal shock element due to the absence of the connecting profile between the primary shock element and the at least one external shock element.

In a further embodiment the at least one external shock element is a series of successive external shock elements. Each subsequent external shock element is placed within a previous external shock element. Each subsequent external shock element has a shorter length than the previous external shock element. Said lengths are measured perpendicularly from the bottom plate to an opposite end of the external shock elements. Successive external shock elements can, but do not have to, have the same thickness.

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This embodiment has the same advantages as described earlier. This embodiment is also favorable because the stiffness of the shock-absorbing post increases towards the bottom plate, which causes an elastic deformation of the shock-absorbing post that is spread over the length of the shock-absorbing post and the elastic deformation in the vicinity of the base element. Because the elastic deformation spreads over the length of the shock-absorbing pile, the total displacement of the shock-absorbing pile in the direction of the shock is more limited compared to a situation in which the elastic deformation is mainly concentrated in a single zone of the shock-absorbing post, increasing safety behind the shock-absorbing post. Changing the thickness of successive external shock elements provides more flexibility to spread the elastic deformation of the shock-absorbing pile along its length.

In a preferred embodiment, the shock-absorbing post comprises an anti-buckling element. The anti-kinking element is a hollow profile made of a polymer, preferably a polvolefin, such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) and polybutylene (PB), and more preferably polypropylene (PP). The material may be different from or the same as the material from which the primary shock element, the at least one internal shock element and/or the at least one external shock element are made. Preferably the material is the same as the material from which the primary shock element, the at least one internal shock element and, if present, the at least one external shock element are made. This is beneficial when recycling the shock-absorbing post. The anti-buckling element extends in a longitudinal direction. The anti-buckling element extends essentially perpendicular to the bottom plate. This means that the longitudinal direction of the connecting profile, the longitudinal direction of the primary shock element, the longitudinal direction of the at least one internal shock element, the longitudinal direction of the at least one external shock element if present and the anti-buckling element are almost parallel. The anti-buckling element has a shorter length than the primary shock element. The anti-buckling element has a longer length than the at least one internal shock element. The anti-buckling element has a longer length than the at least one external shock element if present. Said lengths are measured perpendicularly from the bottom plate to an opposite end of the anti-buckling element, an opposite end of the primary shock element, an opposite end of the at least one internal shock element and an opposite end of the at least one external shock element, respectively. This showed that in the case of multiple internal shock elements, each internal shock element has a length that is shorter than the length of the anti-buckling element and in the case of multiple external shock elements, each external shock element has a length that is shorter than the length of the anti-buckling element. the anti-kinking element. The anti-buckling element is placed within the at least one internal shock element.

This embodiment is especially favorable for a long shock-absorbing pile, where the high energy shock of more than 3 k] is expected at a relatively high level above the surface. This could lead to buckling of the shock-absorbing post. By simply increasing the height of the at least one internal shock element or the at least one external shock element if present, the shock absorbing post would become stiffer, thus avoiding buckling of the shock absorbing post, but it would also increase the elastic deformation of the shock absorbing post. pile and consequently the absorption of the shock energy. The shock energy will be largely transferred to the base element. This can lead to the base element cracking, the shock-absorbing post detaching from the surface and/or the surface being damaged. In each of these cases the shock-absorbing post failed, Due to a by adding an anti-buckling element, which is placed in the at least one internal shock element and has a longer length than the at least one internal shock element and the at least one external shock element if present, buckling of the shock-absorbing post is prevented, while the shock-absorbing pole can still absorb the high energy of the shock,

Because the shock is at a high level, a level above the at least one internal shock element and the at least one external shock element if present, and because the anti-buckling element is not in contact with the primary shock element, the primary shock element will operate as before. elastically deform and first absorb the energy of the shock, Before the primary shock element bends too much and risks buckling, the primary shock element touches the anti-buckling element and part of the shock energy is transferred to the anti-buckling element, With further elastic deformation of the primary shock element, the at least one external shock element if present and the at least one internal shock element are also elastically deformed and the high energy of the shock at a high level above the surface is successfully absorbed throughout the shock absorbing pile.

In a preferred embodiment, the at least one internal shock element is a series of successive internal shock elements. Each subsequent internal

16 BE2022/5333 shock element is placed within a previous internal shock element. Each subsequent internal shock element has a shorter length than the previous internal shock element. Said lengths are measured perpendicularly from the base plate to the opposite end of the internal shock elements. Successive internal shock elements may, but do not have to, have the same thickness.

This embodiment has similar advantages as previously described for the at least one external shock element, being a series of successive external shock elements. This embodiment has the additional advantage that there is usually more space available in the connecting profile than between the primary shock element and the connecting profile, because the primary shock element is preferably placed close to the connecting profile to prevent a large translation of the primary shock element when a collision occurs,

This typically allows to have more successive internal shock elements than successive external shock elements, resulting in better dispersion of the elastic deformation along the shock absorbing pile. Changing the thickness of successive internal shock elements gives more flexibility to the elastic deformation of the shock absorbing pile spread over its length.

In one embodiment, the connecting profile, the primary shock element and the at least one shock element have the same shape for a cross-section, wherein the cross-section is made transverse to the longitudinal direction of the connecting profile, the primary shock element and the at least one shock element, respectively. The cross-sections of the members each have a center. These centers preferably lie on top of each other in a direction transverse to the base plate. This embodiment is favorable for transferring shock energy between the said members, independently of a direction from which a shock originates, because it is possible to place the said member in such a way that a distance between any of the said members to an adjacent member of the said members along its perimeter is equal. Preferably the cross-section is circular.

In a further embodiment, the connecting profile, the primary shock element, the at least one shock element and the anti-buckling element have the same shape for a cross-section, wherein the cross-section is transverse to the longitudinal direction of the connecting profile, the primary shock element, the at least one shock element and the anti-buckling element is created. This embodiment has the same advantages as described earlier.

In a preferred embodiment, the shock-absorbing post comprises a connector for connecting a horizontal rail to the shock-absorbing post. The connector is suitable for sliding the horizontal rail in or over the connector, for placing the horizontal rail in the connector or another suitable way to connect the horizontal rail to the connector. The horizontal rail can be securely attached to the connector, but it does not have to be. The connector extends substantially perpendicular to the shock absorbing post through the primary shock element. Preferably, the primary shock element includes an opening to allow the connector to pass through the primary shock element. The connector may be securely attached to the primary shock element, but this is not necessary. Preferably, the connector is not securely attached to the primary shock element. The shock absorbing post includes an anti-buckling element, as described in previous embodiments, The anti-buckling element extends through the connector, The connector preferably includes an opening to allow the anti-buckling element to pass through the connector, The connector can be securely mounted on the anti-kinking elements are attached, but this is not necessary. Preferably, the connector is not firmly attached to the anti-buckling element, A connector that is not firmly attached to the anti-buckling element and to the primary shock element makes it easier to elastically deform the shock-absorbing post, This embodiment is favorable to provide collision protection between shock-absorbing posts. The connector can be loosely attached because it is held in a direction transverse to the bottom plate by the primary shock element and is held in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction of the anti-kink element by the anti-kink element itself.

In a preferred embodiment, the connecting elements are at least two bolts and nuts. The bolts move from a first side of the shock-absorbing post through the shock-absorbing post to a second opposite side of the shock-absorbing post. A first bolt is approximately perpendicular to a second bolt. This embodiment is favorable because the bolts connect not only the primary shock element, but also the at least one internal shock element and, if present, the at least one external shock element and the anti-buckling element. Two substantially perpendicular bolts are advantageous to have a balanced distribution of the shock energy over the connecting elements, regardless of a direction from which a shock originates. The bolts have at least a size MS, preferably at least M10 and even more preferably at least M12. A larger size is advantageous to prevent the primary shock element from tearing around the bolt during impact.

18 BE2022/5333

In a preferred embodiment, the at least one internal shock element and, if present, the at least one external shock element, are formed as separate hollow profiles. This means that each internal shock element and, if present, each external shock element is a separate profile. Each internal shock element is slidable relative to an adjacent internal shock element and, when present, each external shock element is slidable relative to an adjacent external shock element. This is beneficial for elastic deformation of the shock absorbing pile and absorbing the energy of a shock.

In an alternative embodiment, the at least one internal shock element and the at least one external shock element are formed as a single profile with a stepped interior. The single profile has a recess to receive the connecting profile. If present, the anti-buckling element may or may not are integrated into the single profile. Preferably the anti-buckling element is integrated into the single profile. The single profile is advantageous for easy production and assembly of the shock-absorbing post due to the reduced number of steps to assemble the shock-absorbing post. However, some flexibility is lost with regard to simple adjustment of the dimensions of the at least one internal shock element and the at least one external shock element.

From the description of this embodiment it is clear that when the at least one external shock element is not present, a similar embodiment in which the at least one internal shock element is formed as a single profile with a stepped interior is possible. It is also clear that a similar embodiment is possible in which only the at least one external shock element is formed as a single profile with a stepped interior. In these last two embodiments it is not required to provide a recess for receiving the connecting profile of the base element. It is also clear that these last two embodiments can be combined.

In one embodiment, the primary shock element, the at least one internal shock element and, if present, the at least one external shock element and the anti-buckling element are extrusion profiles. This is advantageous for easy manufacture of said members.

19 BE2022/5333

In one embodiment, adjacent shock elements of a group formed by the primary shock element and the at least one external shock element are located at a distance of at most 30 mm, preferably at most 20 mm, more preferably at a distance of at most 10 mm, even more preferably at a distance of at most 5 mm and most preferably at a distance of at most 2 mm, wherein the distance is measured as a shortest distance in a direction perpendicular to the shock element. This design is advantageous for good energy transfer between shock elements.

In one embodiment, adjacent shock elements of a group formed by the at least one internal shock element and, if present, the anti-buckling element are located at a distance of at most 30 mm, preferably at most 20 mm, more preferably at a distance of at most 10 mm, even more preferably at a distance of no more than 5 mm and most preferably at a distance of no more than 2 mm, whereby the distance is measured as a shortest distance in a direction perpendicular to the shock element. This design is advantageous for good energy transfer between shock elements.

In one embodiment, adjacent shock elements of a group formed by the at least one internal shock element and the at least one external shock element are located at a distance of at most 30 mm, preferably at most 20 mm, more preferably at a distance of at most 10 mm, even more preferably at a distance of no more than 5 mm and most preferably at a distance of no more than 2 mm, whereby the distance is measured as a shortest distance in a direction perpendicular to the shock element. This design is advantageous for good energy transfer between shock elements.

In one embodiment, adjacent shock elements of a group formed by the primary shock element and the at least one internal shock element are located at a distance of at most 30 mm, preferably at most 20 mm, more preferably at a distance of at most 1D mm, even more preferably at a distance of at most 5 mm and most preferably at a distance of at most 2 mm, wherein the distance is measured as a shortest distance in a direction perpendicular to the shock element. This design is advantageous for good energy transfer between shock elements.

In one embodiment, the base plate of the base element includes an additional hole for attaching the base element to the surface. The additional hole is

20 BE2022/5333 placed centrally in the base plate. The extra hole is advantageous to prevent plastic deformation of the base plate upon impact. This embodiment is especially advantageous for base plates with large dimensions, for example a circular base plate with a diameter of more than 300 mm or a square base plate with a side of 265 mm. This embodiment is especially advantageous for shock-absorbing piles that have to withstand an expected shock energy of more than 15 kJ,

It will be clear to a person skilled in the art of ordinary skill that the previously described embodiments of distances between shock elements can be advantageously combined.

In a second aspect, the invention concerns a method for assembling a shock-absorbing post for collision avoidance.

In a preferred embodiment, the method comprises the steps of: - mounting a base element on a surface, wherein the base element comprises a base plate and a hollow connection profile; - attaching the base plate to the surface; - placing a primary shock element on the base element; - attaching the primary shock element to the base element using connecting elements,

The base element is preferably made of metal, more preferably steel. The base plate is intended to be placed with one side on the surface. The base plate includes holes for attaching the base element to the surface with bolts, screws, anchors or other suitable means. The bottom plate comprises at least four holes, preferably at least five and more preferably at least six holes. The holes are preferably evenly distributed over the center of the base plate. Optionally, the bottom plate is provided with an extra hole in the middle to prevent plastic deformation of the bottom plate in the event of impact.

The connecting profile is firmly attached to the base plate. The connecting profile is preferably welded to the bottom plate. The connecting profile extends in a longitudinal direction. The connecting profile extends almost perpendicular to the bottom plate. This means that the longitudinal direction of the connecting profile is almost perpendicular to the bottom plate and almost perpendicular to the surface. The connection profile is a hi profile.

21 BE2022/5333

The primary shock element is a ho! profile made of a polymer, preferably a polyolefin, such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) and polybutylene (PB), and more preferably polypropylene (PP). The primary shock element extends in a longitudinal direction. The primary shock element extends almost perpendicular to the bottom plate. This means that the longitudinal direction of the connecting profile and the longitudinal direction of the primary shock element are almost parallel.

After the primary shock element has been placed on the base element, the connecting profile is placed within the primary shock element. Consequently, the connecting profile cannot be directly impacted during a collision. The connecting profile is protected against collisions by the primary shock element.

Non-exhaustive examples of connecting elements are screws, bolts, nuts and bolts, rivets, wedges, etc.

The method includes the additional step of placing at least one internal shock element. The at least one internal shock element is a hollow profile made of a polymer, preferably a polyolefin, such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) and polybutylene (PB), and more preferably polypropylene (PP). The material may be different from or the same as the material the primary shock element is made of. Preferably the material is the same as the material from which the primary shock element is made. The at least one internal shock element extends in a longitudinal direction. The at least one internal shock element extends almost perpendicular to the bottom plate. This means that the longitudinal direction of the connecting profile, the longitudinal direction of the primary shock element and the longitudinal direction of the at least one internal shock element are virtually parallel. The at least one internal shock element has a shorter length than the primary shock element. The length is measured perpendicularly from the bottom plate to an opposite end of the at least one internal shock element, respectively an opposite end of the primary shock element. This means that in the case of multiple internal shock elements, each internal shock element has a length that is shorter than the length of the primary shock element. The at least one internal shock element has a longer length than the connecting profile. Said length is measured perpendicularly from the bottom plate to an opposite end of the at least one internal shock element, respectively an opposite end of the primary shock element. This means that in the case of multiple internal shock elements, each internal shock element has a length that is longer than the length of the connecting profile.

The at least one internal shock element is placed at the bottom plate within the connecting profile. As a result, the connecting profile surrounds the at least one internal shock element on the side of the bottom plate and the at least one internal shock element protrudes from the connecting profile. The at least one internal shock element can be placed before or after placing the primary shock element. Preferably, the at least one internal shock element is placed before placing the primary shock element. The at least one internal shock element is preferably placed before the primary shock element is attached to the base element.

This method is very beneficial because it provides a shock absorbing pile that can withstand a high energy shock, even higher than 3 k}, without the shock absorbing pile failing. The primary shock element, the base element nor at least one internal shock element is damaged by impact, The shock-absorbing post remains firmly attached to the surface, without damaging the surface, In the event that any part of the shock-absorbing post is damaged, the shock-absorbing post can post can be easily dismantled and the damaged part can be easily replaced, in contrast to a shock-absorbing post where a tube is pressed onto the base element. The method also allows flexible mounting of the shock-absorbing post, depending on the expected shock energy that needs to be absorbed. withstand and the level above the surface where the shock can be expected, by simply changing the number of internal shock elements and the length of the internal shock elements.

In a preferred embodiment, the method comprises the additional step of placing at least one external shock element. The at least one external shock element is a ho! profile made of a polymer, preferably a polyolefin, such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) and polybutylene (PB), and more preferably polypropylene (PP). The material may be different from or equal to the material from which the primary shock element and/or the at least one internal shock element are made. Preferably, the material is equal to the material from which the primary shock element and the at least one internal shock element are made. The at least one external shock element extends in a longitudinal direction. The at least one external shock element extends almost perpendicular to the bottom plate. This means that the longitudinal direction of the connecting profile, the longitudinal direction of the primary shock element, the longitudinal direction of the at least one internal shock element and the longitudinal direction of the at least one external shock element are virtually parallel. The at least one external shock element has a shorter length than the primary shock element. The at least one external shock element has a longer length than the at least one internal shock element. Said lengths are measured perpendicularly from the bottom plate to an opposite end of the at least one external shock element, an opposite end

End of the primary shock element and an opposite end of the at least one internal shock element. This means that in the case of multiple external shock elements, each external shock element has a length that is shorter than the length of the primary shock element and that each external shock element has a length that is longer than the length of at least one internal shock element, which in the case of multiple internal shock elements, this means that each external shock element has a length that is longer than the length of each internal shock element. The at least one external shock element is placed within the primary shock element. The at least one external shock element is placed at the bottom plate outside the connection profile. As a result, the at least one external shock element surrounds the connection profile on the side of the bottom plate. The at least one external shock element can be placed before or after placing the primary shock element. and/or the at least one internal shock element are placed. Preferably, the at least one external shock element is placed before placing the primary shock element and after placing the at least one internal shock element. The at least one internal shock element is preferably placed before the primary shock element is attached to the base element.

This embodiment is particularly advantageous with a very high shock energy of, for example, more than 10 kJ. For such a shock, it is necessary to provide a shock-absorbing pole that is strong, but can still deform elastically to absorb the energy of the shock. A simple strengthening of the primary shock element would reduce its ability to elastically deform and its ability to absorb the shock energy, thereby increasing the risk of damage to the primary shock element and the support of the shock absorbing pile. The at least one external shock element is advantageous because the primary shock element can still easily deform elastically and absorb energy due to the shorter length of the at least one external shock element, but it will not break because it is more quickly supported by the at least one external shock element shock element then through the at least one interior

24 BE2022/5333 shock element due to the absence of the connection profile between the primary shock element and the at least one external shock element. An additional advantage is that the step can be performed at a later stage, after the initial installation of the shock-absorbing post has been completed, when conditions change and the shock-absorbing post would need to be able to withstand higher shock energy. This allows for flexible installation of the shock-absorbing post possible.

In a preferred embodiment, the method comprises the additional step of installing an anti-buckling element. The anti-buckling element is a hot profile made of a polymer, preferably a polyolefin, such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) and polybutylene ( PB), and more preferably polypropylene (PP).

The material may be different from or equal to the material from which the primary shock element, the at least one internal shock element and/or the at least one external shock element are made. Preferably the material is equal to the material from which the primary shock element, the at least one at least one internal shock element and, if present, at least one external shock element are made. The anti-buckling element extends in a longitudinal direction. The anti-buckling element extends substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate. This means that the longitudinal direction of the connecting profile, the longitudinal direction of the primary shock element, the longitudinal direction of the at least one internal shock element, the longitudinal direction of the at least one external shock element if present and the anti-buckling element are virtually parallel.

The anti-buckling element has a shorter length than the primary shock element. The anti-buckling element has a longer length than the at least one internal shock element. The anti-buckling element has a longer length than the at least one external shock element if present. Said lengths are measured perpendicularly from the bottom plate to an opposite end of the anti-buckling element, an opposite end of the primary shock element, an opposite end of the at least one internal shock element and an opposite end of the at least one external shock element, respectively. This means that in the case of multiple internal shock elements, each internal shock element has a length that is shorter than the length of the anti-buckling element and in the case of multiple external shock elements, each external shock element has a length that is shorter than the length of the anti-kinking element.

The anti-buckling element is placed within the at least one internal shock element,

25 BE2022/5333

This embodiment is especially beneficial when mounting a long shock-absorbing pile, where the high energy shock of more than 3 kJ is expected at a relatively high level above the surface. This could lead to buckling of the shock-absorbing post. By simply increasing the height of the at least one internal shock element or the at least one external shock element if present, the shock absorbing post would become stiffer, thus avoiding buckling of the shock absorbing post, but it would also increase the elastic deformation of the shock absorbing post. reduce the pile and therefore the absorption of the shock energy. The shock energy will be largely transferred to the base element. This can cause the base element to crack, the shock-absorbing post to detach from the surface and/or the surface to be damaged. In each of these cases, the shock absorbing pile failed by adding an anti-buckling element, which is placed in the at least one internal shock element and has a longer length than the at least one internal shock element and the at least one external shock element if present , buckling of the shock-absorbing post is prevented, while the shock-absorbing post can still absorb the high energy of the shock,

Because the shock is at a high level, a level above the at least one internal shock element and above the at least one external shock element if present, and because the anti-buckling element is not in contact with the primary shock element, the primary shock element will as previously elastically deform and first absorb the energy of the shock, Before the primary shock element bends too much and risks buckling, the primary shock element touches the anti-buckling element and part of the shock energy is transferred to the anti-buckling element. With further elastic deformation of the primary shock element, the at least one external shock element if present and the at least one internal shock element are also elastically deformed and the high energy of the shock at a high level above the surface is successfully absorbed into the entire shock absorbing pile . An additional advantage is that the step can be carried out at a later stage, after the initial installation of the shock absorbing pile has been completed, when conditions change and the shock is expected at a higher level above the surface, for example by the introduction of another type of forklift in a warehouse. This allows flexible mounting of the shock-absorbing post.

In a further embodiment, the method includes the additional step of placing a connector for connecting a horizontal rail to the shock-absorbing post. The connector is first stretched through the primary shock element, after which the primary shock element is placed over the anti-kinking element, while at the same time the anti-kinking element is stretched through the connector. The primary shock element includes an opening to allow the connector to pass through the primary shock element. The connector may be extended through the primary shock element by sliding the connector through the opening in the primary shock element. The connector includes an opening to allow the anti-kink element to pass through the connector. The anti-kink element can be inserted through the primary shock element by sliding the anti-kink element through the opening in the connector. The connector extends substantially perpendicular to the shock absorbing post through the primary shock element. This embodiment is advantageous to provide contact protection between shock absorbing posts. The connector can be loosely attached because it is held in a direction transverse to the base plate by the primary shock element and is held in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction of the anti-buckling element by the anti-buckling element itself.

A skilled person with ordinary skill will appreciate that a shock-absorbing pile according to the first aspect is preferably assembled by carrying out a method according to the second aspect and that a method according to the second aspect is preferably carried out to obtain a shock-absorbing pile according to the first aspect. Accordingly, any feature described in this document, both above and below, may relate to any of the three aspects of the present invention.

In a third aspect, the invention concerns a use of a shock-absorbing post according to the first aspect and/or a method according to the second aspect for collision protection resistant to a shock of at least 12 k].

The advantageous effect of its use as described herein is that it can provide crash protection that can withstand an impact of at least 12 3, that can be easily repaired in the event of damage and that can be adjusted in a flexible manner depending on the expected shock energy and the level above the surface where the shock can be expected.

The invention is further described by the following non-limiting figures which further illustrate the invention and are not intended, nor should they be construed, to limit the scope of the invention.

DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Figure 4A shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a shock-absorbing pile according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 1B shows a cross-sectional view of the shock absorbing post of Figure 1A,

The shock-absorbing post (1) comprises a primary shock element (2), a base element (3), a first external shock element (7), a first internal shock element (9), a second internal shock element (10) and connecting elements (8). (3) comprises a circular base plate (4) and a connecting profile (6). The base plate (4) is placed on a surface, for example a concrete surface. The base plate (4) includes holes (5) for attaching the base element (3} to the surface. The connecting profile (6) is a hollow cylindrical profile. connecting shaft profile (6) is firmly attached to the base plate (4). The connecting profile (6) is used to connect the primary shock element (2) to the base element (3). The primary shock element (2), the first external shock element ( 7), the first internal shock element (9) and the second internal shock element (10) are hollow cylindrical profiles. Note that the primary shock element (2), the first external shock element (7), the first internal shock element (93 and the second internal shock element (10) do not all have the same thickness. The first external shock element (7) is placed inside the primary shock element (2) and outside the connection profile (6) at the bottom plate (4). The first external shock element (7) has a shorter length than the primary shock element (2). The first internal shock element (9) is placed at the bottom plate (4) within the connecting profile (6). The second internal shock element (10) is placed within the first internal shock element (9). The first internal shock element (9) has a shorter length than the primary shock element (2) and the first external shock element (7). The second internal shock element (10) has a shorter length than the first internal shock element (9). The first internal shock element (9) and the second internal shock element (10) have a longer length than the connecting profile (6). The first internal shock element (9) and the second internal shock element (10) are a series of consecutive internal shock elements, with each subsequent internal shock element being placed within a previous internal shock element and each subsequent internal shock element having a shorter length than the previous internal shock element. The connecting elements (8) are two bolts and nuts that pass from a first side of the shock absorbing post (1) through the primary shock element (2), the first external shock element (7), the first internal shock element (9), the second internal shock element (10) and connecting profile (6) of the base element (3). The two bolts are substantially perpendicular to each other. The primary shock element (2) has an outer diameter of 200 mm and a length of 1160 mm. The first external shock element (7) has an outer diameter of 174 mm and a length of 480 mm. The connecting profile (6) has an outer diameter of 159 mm and a length of 160 mm. The first internal shock element (9) has an outer diameter of 142 mm and a length of 380 mm. The second internal shock element (10) has an outer diameter of 125 mm and a length of 280 mm. The shock-absorbing post (1) is capable of absorbing impacts with an energy of at least 14 k] to a level of at least 480 mm above the surface,

Figure 2A shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a shock-absorbing pile, similar to the shock-absorbing pile of Figure 1A, but with additional elements.

Figure 2B shows a cross-sectional view of the shock absorbing post of Figure 2A.

The bottom plate (4) of the base element (3) is attached to the surface using screws (12) through the holes (5). The basic element (3) is protected by a basic protection (14). The primary shock element (2) is located at one end, opposite the basic element (3) by a cover (13).

Figure 3A shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a shock-absorbing pile, similar to the shock-absorbing pile of Figure 2A, but with an external shock element and two internal shock elements with a different length than Figure ZA.

Figure 3B shows a cross-sectional view of the shock absorbing post of Figure 3A.

The first external shock element (7) has a length of 400 mm. The first internal shock element (9) has a length of 300 mm. The second internal shock element (10) has a length of 200 mm. The shock-absorbing post (1) is suitable for absorbing impacts with an energy of at least 14 K] to a level of at least 400 mm above the surface.

Figure 4A shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a shock-absorbing pile, similar to the shock-absorbing pile of Figure 2A, but with only one internal shock element and with an anti-buckling element.

Figure 4B shows a cross-sectional view of the shock absorbing post of Figure 4A,

The anti-kink element (15) is a hollow cylindrical profile. The anti-kinking element (15) is placed within the first internal shock element (9). The anti-kinking element (15) has a shorter length than the primary shock element (2) and a longer length than the first external shock element (7) and the first internal shock element (9). The anti-buckling element (10) has an outer diameter of 125 mm and a length of 700 mm. The shock-absorbing post (1) is suitable for absorbing impacts with an energy of at least 14 kJ to a level of at least 700 mm above the surface.

Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional view of a shock absorbing pile similar to the shock absorbing pile of Figure 4A, while absorbing a shock at a high level above the surface.

The shock absorbing post (1) is struck by a test object (16) at a level of 600 mm above the surface. The test object (16) collides horizontally with the shock-absorbing pile (1) with a shock energy of at least 10 Kk]. The primary shock element (2) starts to buckle at the level of the shock. However, buckling is avoided because the primary shock element (2) touches the anti-buckling element (15) and transfers part of the shock energy to the anti-buckling element (15). . Only increasing the height of the first external shock element (7}, the first internal shock element (9) and the second internal shock element (10) of the shock absorbing post (1) of Figure ZA would result in a stiffer shock absorbing post (1) which cannot deform as much elastically and would absorb less shock energy, leading to the failure of the shock absorbing pile (1). Also clearly visible in Figure 5 is that due to the presence of the first internal shock element (9), the primary shock element

30 BE2022/5333 (2) and the first external shock element (7) are not cut by the connecting profile (6) while they are elastically deforming.

Figure SA shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a shock-absorbing pile, similar to the shock-absorbing pile of Figure 2A, but without an external shock element.

Figure SB shows a cross-sectional view of the shock-absorbing post of Figure

GO.

The shock absorbing post (1) is suitable for absorbing impacts with an energy of at least 12 k] up to a level of at least 380 mm above the surface.

Figure 7A shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a shock-absorbing pile, similar to the shock-absorbing pile of Figure 2A, but with only one internal shock element, more specifically the longest internal shock element,

Figure 7B shows a cross-sectional view of the shock absorbing post of Figure 7A.

The shock-absorbing post (1) is suitable for absorbing impacts with an energy of at least 12 k] to a level of at least 480 mm above the surface.

Figure SA shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a shock-absorbing pile, similar to the shock-absorbing pile of Figure 7A, but without an external shock element.

Figure 8B shows a cross-sectional view of the shock absorbing post of Figure

S.A.,

The shock-absorbing post (1) is suitable for absorbing impacts with an energy of at least 10 KJ] to a level of at least 380 mm above the surface.

Figure 9A shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a shock-absorbing pile, similar to the shock-absorbing pile of Figure 2A, but with only one internal shock element, more specifically the shortest internal shock element.

3 BE2022/5333

Figure 98 shows a cross-sectional view of the shock absorbing post of Figure

SA.

The shock absorbing post (1) is suitable for absorbing impacts with an energy of at least 12 0 to a level of at least 480 mm above the surface.

Figure 104 Shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a shock-absorbing pile, similar to the shock-absorbing pile of Figure 9A, but without an external shock element.

Figure 108 shows a cross-sectional view of the shock absorbing post of Figure i0A.

The shock absorbing post (1) is suitable for absorbing impacts with an energy of at least 10 k] to a level of at least 280 mm above the surface.

Figure 114 shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a shock-absorbing pile, similar to the shock-absorbing pile of Figure 4A, but without an external shock element and only one internal shock element with a length equal to the length of the anti-buckling element of the shock-absorbing pile from Figure 4A,

Figure 118 shows a cross-sectional view of the shock absorbing post of Figure ilA.

The shock absorbing pile (1) is suitable for absorbing impacts with an energy of at least 10 k] up to a level of at least 700 mm above the surface.

Figure 12A shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a shock-absorbing pile, similar to the shock-absorbing pile of Figure 2A, but with an external shock element and two internal shock elements with a different length than Figure 2A and with one additional internal shock element,

Figure 12B shows a cross-sectional view of the shock absorbing post of Figure - 12A.

The third internal shock element (11) is placed within the second internal shock element (10). The third internal shock element (11) has a shorter length than the second shock element (10). The third internal shock element (11) has a longer length than the connecting profile (6). The first internal shock element (9), the second internal shock element (10) and the third internal shock element (11) are a series of consecutive internal shock elements, with each subsequent internal shock element being placed within a previous internal shock element and each subsequent internal shock element being a shorter one. length than the previous internal shock element. The first external shock element (7) has a length of 550 mm. The first internal shock element (9) has a length of 450 mm. The second internal shock element (10) has a length of 350 mm. The third internal shock element (11) has an outer diameter of 104 mm and a length of 250 mm. The shock-absorbing pile {1} is suitable for absorbing impacts with an energy of at least 16 k] to a level of at least 550 mm above the surface,

Figure 13A shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a shock-absorbing pile with an external shock element, internal shock elements and an anti-buckling element formed as a single profile.

Figure 13B shows a sectional view of the shock absorbing post of Figure 13A,

The first external shock element (7), the first internal shock element (9), the second internal shock element (10) and the anti-buckling element (15) are formed as a single profile (17). The single profile (17) has a stepped inside (19). The single profile (17) has a recess (18) to receive the connecting profile {6} of the base element (3). The first external shock element (7) has an outer diameter of 174 mm and a length of 480 mm,

The first internal shock element (9) has an outer diameter of 142 mm and a length of 340 mm. The second internal shock element (10) has an outer diameter of 125 mm and a length of 250 mm. The anti-kink element (15) has an outer diameter of 105 mm and a length of 700 mm. The shock-absorbing post (1) is suitable for absorbing impacts with an energy of at least 16 k] to a level of at least 700 mm above the surface.

Figure 14A shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a shock absorbing pile with a primary shock element of shorter length and smaller diameter compared to the shock absorbing pile of Figure 2A, with no external shock elements and only one internal shock element.

Figure 14B shows a cross-sectional view of the shock absorbing post of Figure 14A.

The primary shock element (2) has an outer diameter of 125 mm and a length of 750 mm. The connecting profile (6) has an outer diameter of 101.5 mm and a length of 125 mm. The first internal shock element (9) has an outer diameter of 88 mm and a length of 300 mm. The shock absorbing post {1} is suitable for absorbing impacts with an energy of at least 3 k3] to a level of at least 300 mm above the surface,

Figure 15A shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a shock-absorbing pile, similar to the shock-absorbing pile of Figure 14A, but with an internal shock element of longer length compared to the shock-absorbing pile of Figure 14A,

Figure 15B shows a cross-sectional view of the shock absorbing post of Figure 15A.

The first internal shock element (9) has a length of 500 mm. The shock-absorbing post (1) is suitable for absorbing impacts with an energy of at least 3 Kk] to a level of at least 500 mm above the surface.

Figure 16A shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a shock-absorbing pile, similar to the shock-absorbing pile of Figure 14A, but with an additional internal shock element.

Figure 16B shows a sectional view of the shock absorbing post of Figure 16A,

The second internal shock element (10) has an outer diameter of 56 mm and a length of 200 mm. The shock-absorbing post (1) is suitable for absorbing impacts with an energy of at least 5 k} to a level of at least 300 mm above the surface.

Figure 17A shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a shock-absorbing pile, similar to the shock-absorbing pile of Figure 16A, but with internal shock elements of a different length than the shock-absorbing pile of Figure 16A.

34 BE2022/5333

Figure 17B shows a cross-sectional view of the shock absorbing post of Figure 17A.

The first internal shock element (9) has a length of 350 mm. The second internal shock element (10) has a length of 250 mm. The shock absorbing post (1) is suitable for absorbing impacts with an energy of at least 5 kJ to a level of at least 350 mm above the surface.

Figure 18A shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a shock-absorbing pile, similar to the shock-absorbing pile of Figure 14A, but with an internal shock element of shorter length compared to the shock-absorbing pile of Figure 14A and with an anti-buckling element.

Figure 188 shows a cross-sectional view of the shock absorbing post of Figure 1BA.

The first internal shock element (9) has a length of 250 mm. The anti-kink element (15) has an outer diameter of 66 mm and a length of 500 mm.

The shock-absorbing post (1) is capable of absorbing impacts with an energy of at least 5 k] to a level of at least 500 mm above the surface,

Figure 1984 shows a perspective view in cross-section of a shock-absorbing post according to an embodiment of the invention, wherein the shock-absorbing post comprises a connector for connecting a horizontal rail to the shock-absorbing post.

Figure 19B shows a sectional view of the shock absorbing post of Figure 19A,

The connector (20) is suitable for connecting a horizontal rail to the shock-absorbing post (1). The connector (20) extends substantially perpendicular to the shock absorbing post {1} through the primary shock element (23). The primary shock element (23 includes an opening to allow the connector (20) to pass through the primary shock element (2). shock-absorbing post {1} includes an anti-buckling element (15). The anti-buckling element (15) is a beam-shaped hollow profile. The anti-buckling element (15) extends through the connector (20). The connector (20) includes an opening to allow the anti-kink element (15) to pass through the connector (20). The connector (20) is held in a direction transverse to the bottom plate (4) by

35 BE2022/5333 the primary shock element (2) and is held in a direction transverse to a longitudinal direction of the anti-buckling element (15) by the anti-buckling element (15) itself.

Figure 204 shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a shock-absorbing pile, similar to the shock-absorbing pile of Figure 194, but with additional elements.

Figure 20B shows a cross-sectional view of the shock absorbing post of Figure 20A.

The primary shock element (2) is closed at one end, opposite the base element (3) by a cover (13).

Figure 21A shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a shock-absorbing pile, similar to the shock-absorbing pile of Figure 4A, but with a primary shock element and an anti-buckling element with a larger diameter, and a first external shock element and a first internal shock element with a larger diameter and a shorter length.

Figure 21B shows a sectional view of the shock absorbing post of Figure 21A,

The anti-kink element (15) is a hollow cylindrical profile. The anti-kinking element (15) is placed within the first internal shock element (9). The anti-kinking element (15) has a shorter length than the primary shock element (2) and a longer length than the first external shock element (7) and the first internal shock element (9). The primary shock element (2) has an outer diameter of 250 mm and a length of 1160 mm. The first external shock element (7) has an outer diameter of 225 mm and a length of 350 mm. The connecting profile (6) has an outer diameter of 194 mm and a length of 167 mm. The first internal shock element (9) has an outer diameter of 176 mm and a length of 301 mm. The anti-kink element (10) has an outer diameter of 142 mm and a length of 700 mm. As the base plate (4) grows large, in this embodiment the base plate (4) is attached to the surface with an additional screw (12) through an additional hole (5) centrally in the base plate to prevent plastic deformation of the base plate upon impact. . The shock-absorbing post (1) is capable of absorbing impacts with an energy of at least 20 kJ to a level of at least 650 mm above the surface,

38 BE2022/5333

The elements in the figures are: 1. Shock-absorbing post 2. Primary shock element 3. Base element 4, Base plate 5. Hole 6. Connecting profile 7. First external shock element 8. Connecting elements © First internal shock element 10. Second internal shock element il. Third internal shock element 12. Screw 13. Cover 14, Basic protection 15. Anti-kinking element 16. Test object 17. Single profile! 18. Cutout 19. Stepped inside 20. Connector

Claims (15)

CONCLUSIONS 1. Shock-absorbing crash protection post comprising a base element for mounting the absorbent post on a surface, a primary shock element for absorbing a shock from a collision and connecting elements for connecting the primary shock element to the base element, the base element being a base plate and comprises a hollow connection profile for connecting the primary shock element to the base element using the connection elements, wherein the connection profile is firmly attached to the bottom plate and extends substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate, wherein the primary shock element is a hollow profile made of a polymer, wherein the primary shock element extends substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate and wherein the connecting profile is placed inside the primary shock element, characterized in that the shock-absorbing post comprises at least one internal shock element, wherein the at least one internal shock element has a hollow profile is made of a polymer, wherein the at least one internal shock element extends substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate, wherein the at least one internal shock element has a shorter length than the primary shock element, wherein the length is measured perpendicular to the bottom plate and wherein the at least one internal shock element is placed at the bottom plate within the connection profile, 2. Shock-absorbing post according to claim 1, wherein the shock-absorbing post comprises at least one external shock element, wherein the at least one external shock element is a hollow profile made of a polymer, wherein the at least one external shock element extends substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate , wherein the at least one external shock element has a shorter length than the primary shock element and a longer length than the at least one internal shock element, wherein the length is measured perpendicular to the bottom plate and wherein the at least one external shock element is within the primary shock element and is placed outside the connection profile at the bottom plate. 3. Shock-absorbing pile according to claim 2, wherein the at least one external shock element is a series of successive external shock elements, with each subsequent external shock element within a 38 BE2022/5333 earlier external shock element is placed and each subsequent external shock element has a shorter length than the previous external shock element, whereby the length is measured perpendicular to the bottom plate. 4. Shock-absorbing post according to any of the preceding claims 1-3, wherein the shock-absorbing post comprises an anti-buckling element, wherein the anti-buckling element is a hollow profile made of a polymer, wherein the anti-buckling element extends substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate , wherein the anti-buckling element has a shorter length than the primary shock element and a longer length than the at least one internal shock element, wherein the length is measured perpendicular to the bottom plate and wherein the anti-buckling element is placed within the at least one internal shock element . 5. Shock-absorbing post according to any of the preceding claims 2-3 and claim 4, wherein the anti-buckling element has a longer length than the at least one external shock element, wherein the length is measured perpendicular to the bottom plate. 6. Shock-absorbing post according to any of the preceding claims 4-5, wherein the shock-absorbing post comprises a connector for connecting a horizontal rail to the shock-absorbing post, wherein the connector extends substantially perpendicular to the shock-absorbing post through the primary shock element and wherein it anti-kink element extends through the connector. 7. Shock-absorbing pile according to any of the preceding claims 1-6, wherein the at least one internal shock element is a series of successive internal shock elements, wherein each subsequent internal shock element is placed within a previous internal shock element and each subsequent internal shock element has a shorter length than the previous internal shock element, where the length is measured perpendicular to the bottom plate. 8. Shock-absorbing post according to any of the preceding claims 1-7, wherein the connecting elements are at least two bolts and nuts, wherein the bolts cross from a first side of the shock-absorbing post through the shock-absorbing post to a second opposite side of the shock-absorbing post, wherein a first bolt is substantially perpendicular to a second bolt. 9. A shock-absorbing post according to any one of the preceding claims 2-8, wherein the at least one internal shock element and the at least one external shock element are formed as a single profile with a stepped inside, and wherein the single profile has a recess to accommodate the connecting profile. received. 10, a shock-absorbing post according to any of the preceding claims 4-5 and claim 9, wherein the anti-buckling element is integrated into the single profile. 11. Method for assembling a shock-absorbing post for collision protection, comprising the steps of: - mounting a base element on a surface, wherein the base element comprises a base plate and a hollow connection profile, wherein the connection profile is firmly attached to the base plate and located in extends substantially perpendicular to the base plate; - attaching the base plate to the surface; - placing a primary shock element on the base element, wherein the primary shock element is a hollow profile made of a polymer, wherein the primary shock element extends substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate and wherein the connecting profile is placed within the primary shock element; - attaching the primary shock element to the base element, using connecting elements; characterized in that the method comprises the additional step of placing at least one internal shock element, wherein the at least one internal shock element is a hollow profile made of a polymer, wherein the at least one internal shock element is located substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate, wherein the at least one internal shock element has a shorter length than the primary shock element, wherein the length is measured perpendicular to the bottom plate and wherein the at least one internal shock element is placed at the bottom plate within the connecting profile. +0 BE2022/5333 12. Method according to claim 11, wherein the method comprises the additional step of placing at least one external shock element, wherein the at least one external shock element is a hollow profile made of a polymer, wherein the at least one external shock element is substantially extends perpendicular to the bottom plate, wherein the at least one external shock element has a shorter length than the primary shock element and a longer length than the at least one internal shock element, wherein the length is measured perpendicular to the bottom plate and wherein the at least one external shock element is placed inside the primary shock element and outside the connection profile at the bottom plate. Method according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the method comprises the additional step of placing an anti-kinking element, wherein the anti-kinking element is a hollow profile made of a polymer, wherein the anti-kinking element is located substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate, wherein the anti-buckling element has a shorter length than the primary shock element and a longer length than the at least one internal shock element, wherein the length is measured perpendicular to the bottom plate and wherein the anti-buckling element is within the at least one internal shock element is placed. A method according to claim 13, wherein the method comprises the additional step of placing a connector for connecting a horizontal rail to the shock-absorbing post, wherein the connector is first stretched through the primary shock element, after which the primary shock element is placed over the anti-shock element. kinking element is placed, while at the same time the anti-kinking element is stretched through the connector. 15. Use of a shock-absorbing post according to any one of the preceding claims 1-10 and/or a method according to any one of the preceding claims 11-14 for collision protection that can withstand a shock of at least 12 KJ.