EP2923023A1

EP2923023A1 - A flood barrier for an opening

Info

Publication number: EP2923023A1
Application number: EP13811137.2A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Gary Leathem
Original assignee: Rsjr Innovations
Current assignee: Rsjr Innovations
Priority date: 2012-11-22
Filing date: 2013-11-22
Publication date: 2015-09-30
Anticipated expiration: 2033-11-22
Also published as: GB201221037D0; WO2014079992A1; EP2923023B1

Abstract

A barrier (1) for preventing ingress of water through an opening, the barrier (1) comprising a frame (2) having a base frame member (3) and two lateral upright frame members (4) and a flexible barrier member (5). The flexible barrier member (5) having all or a substantial part of three peripheral portions of the flexible barrier member (5) permanently attached along all or a substantial part of the length of the base frame member (3) and the two lateral upright members (4) so that no relative movement occurs between the permanently attached parts of the peripheral portions of the flexible barrier (5) and the upright lateral frame members (4) when the barrier (1) is deployed between a stowed position and a deployed position.

Description

A FLOOD BARRIER FOR AN OPENING

The present invention relates to a barrier apparatus and in particular to an apparatus for preventing ingress of flood waters through an opening.

Flooding is periodic problem for much of the UK, with most regions experiencing some level of flood conditions every few years. Worldwide, some areas can experience severe flooding on an annual basis. While infrastructure improvements in the form of drainage and flood retention measures can help to prevent flood water reaching buildings, these measure can only do so much and once breached, there is often little between the oncoming flood water and the buildings in its path. The UK environment agency predicts that up to 5,000,000 UK homes are at significant risk of flooding with the possibility of this figure increasing due to the effects of climate change on sea levels.

When flooding does occur, the cost to rectify the damage caused can amount to billions of pounds. The devastating UK floods of 2007 cost a total of £3.2 billion, including more than £2 billion in costs to homeowners and businesses. While the 2007 flooding was extreme, the average annual bill for flooding has been rising for some years and it is estimated that in 2012 it will amount to over £1 billion for the first time. Moreover, due to the increasing impact and cost of flooding, some homes in England and Wales are coming dangerously close to being labeled as uninsurable because of the risks involved.

Considering the huge impact flooding can have, there are still few options for individual buildings to protect themselves from its effects. Once the infrastructure defenses are broken, individual building defenses mainly consist of sandbags and other such basic barrier methods. While not widely utilized, some additional methods of flood prevention exist which form a watertight barrier across the doorways of a building, preventing access of water. Many of the existing solutions require large reservoirs/retraction chambers to be dug beneath the doorway to which the barrier is to be applied. Retrofitting these devices to existing properties can be difficult, expensive, and detrimental to the aesthetic of the doorway area. In addition, existing solutions require the barrier to be slid or pulled within a movable seal which is typically located on each side of the door. The movable nature of certain components of the seal is typically the weakness of the existing flood defense barriers as effectively sealing between parts movable relative to one another is not easily achievable, at least not without adding significant expense and complexity to the design.

Another potential weakness is the structure of the seal itself, even when the seal is an immovable one. Simple clamps often fail as the pressure exerted by the water can be high, especially at areas of significant depth. The high pressures allow the water to find routes through simply clamped set-ups such as that provided by one flat surface clamped to another with a membrane or other such barrier means therebetween.

With the previously mentioned issues surrounding flooding of homes considered a serious risk with regards to insurance, it will become increasingly important that individual building owners and occupants can find a better yet cost effective means to protect their assets should a flood occur and the infrastructure defenses be breached.

It is an object of the present invention to obviate or mitigate the problem of providing a flood defense barrier for openings in a building which negates the need for a seal arrangement having a flexible barrier that slides or moves relative to the lateral uprights supporting the flexible barrier in the deployed position in or on the building. Furthermore, it is an object to obviate the requirement for a large reservoir/retraction chamber to be created beneath the building opening.

Accordingly, the present invention provides a barrier configured for preventing ingress of water through an opening, the barrier comprising a frame having a base frame member and two lateral upright frame members and a flexible barrier means having all or a substantial part of three peripheral portions of the flexible barrier means permanently attached along all or a substantial part of the length of the base frame member and the two lateral upright members so that no relative movement occurs between the permanently attached parts of the peripheral portions of the flexible barrier and the upright lateral frame members when the barrier is deployed between a stowed position and a deployed position. Accordingly, the present invention provides a door frame having an integrally formed barrier configured for preventing ingress of water through an opening, the barrier comprising a frame having a base frame member and two lateral upright frame members and a flexible barrier means having all or a substantial part of three peripheral portions of the flexible barrier means permanently attached along all or a substantial part of the length of the base frame member and the two lateral upright members so that no relative movement occurs between the permanently attached parts of the peripheral portions of the flexible barrier and the upright lateral frame members when the barrier is deployed between a stowed position and a deployed position.

Ideally, the permanent attachment between the flexible barrier and the frame remains in place in both the stowed position and the deployed position.

Ideally, the height of the flexible barrier is predetermined so that the flexible barrier extends to a height above that of typical flood waters. By typical flood waters we mean the average height flood waters reach above ground floor level.

Advantageously, as the seal between the flexible barrier and the frame remains permanently attached during stowing, deployment, and operation, the barrier can maintain its watertight integrity without the requirement to move the lateral peripheral portions of the flexible barrier relative to the uprights of the frame and thus compromise the associated seal.

Ideally, the opening is an opening in a building structure.

Preferably, the opening is an opening in another structure such as a perimeter or other such wall.

Ideally, the flexible barrier means is contained in cavities in the frame members in the stowed position.

Preferably, the frame members comprise at least one channel section.

Ideally, the at least one channel section comprises walls defining the cavity there between for housing the flexible barrier means in the stowed position.

Preferably, the cavity comprises extended portions for locating excess material of the flexible barrier means therein in the stowed position. Advantageously, the extended portions provide more space into which the flexible barrier means can be retracted, simplifying stowage of the flexible barrier means.

Preferably, the frame comprises a U-shaped channel section having a base frame section and two upright frame sections, one upright frame section being locatable at or about each end of the base frame section.

Ideally, the two upright frame sections and the base frame section are separate components which are joined to form the u-shaped section.

Preferably, at least one upright frame section is movably attached to the base frame.

Ideally, the at least one upright frame section is pivotally attached to the base frame at their corresponding ends.

Preferably, both upright frame sections are pivotally attached to the base frame at their corresponding ends.

Ideally, the upright frame sections comprise two intermediate upright frame sections having a pivotable joint disposed therebetween.

Preferably, the lower of the two intermediate upright frame sections is pivotably attached to the base frame section.

Preferably, the pivotable joint between the two intermediate upright frame sections is movable.

Advantageously, the pivotable joints between the two intermediate upright frame sections and between the lower intermediate upright frame section and the base section allows the upright frame sections to fold in a scissor type action.

Preferably, the base frame section has at least two separable components.

Advantageously, the separable base frame sections allow the barrier to be located into the recess of an opening by temporarily reducing the overall length of the barrier.

Ideally, the two separable components of the base frame are joined by a jointing section, preferably centrally.

Alternatively, the u-shaped section is formed in one piece. Ideally, the frame is locatable along the bottom and extends at least partially upwards along the sides of the building opening.

Advantageously, when in the stowed position, the flexible barrier means is entirely locatable in the cavity of the at least one channel section.

Ideally, the frame is manufactured from metal or metal alloy.

Preferably, the frame is treated to be anti-corrosive.

Ideally, the frame is manufactured from aluminum or steel.

Preferably, the steel is galvanized or stainless.

Alternatively, the frame is manufactured from a composite material such as glass reinforced plastic or a similar material.

Further alternatively, the frame is manufactured from a plastic material.

Ideally, where the frame is manufactured from a plastic material, the frame is provided with additional support struts and/or support webs.

Ideally, the frame is manufactured from any material with sufficient strength and rigidity to take the forces applied through the flexible barrier from the flood water so that the frame does not buckle or pull away from a structure in which it is retained.

Ideally, the frame is integral of a door frame, window frame, or other such frame of an opening in a building.

Preferably, the flexible barrier means is permanently attached to the frame along the two upright frame sections and the base frame section.

Ideally, the permanent attachment is locatable inside the cavity of the frame.

Advantageously, once fixed, the flexible barrier means prevents ingress of flood water to the height of the permanent attachment on the upright sections.

Preferably, the flexible barrier means is configured to maintain the permanent attachment between itself and the frame at all times and to extend between the upright sections of the frame, across an opening in a building in the deployed position. Ideally, the flexible barrier means is deployed from within the frame into a deployed position wherein the flexible barrier means extends between the upright sections of the frame, across an opening in a building.

Preferably, the flexible barrier means comprises an excess of material beyond that required to span the opening in a building.

Advantageously, as the flexible barrier means comprises an excess of material the flexible barrier means can be deployed without the need to move the peripheral portions of the flexible barrier relative to the uprights of the frame maintaining the integrity of the permanently attached seal.

Ideally, the excess of material comprises side sections which extend from the portion of the flexible barrier means permanently attached to the upright frame sections.

Ideally, the side sections are of generally triangular shape.

Preferably, the excess of material further comprises a base section extending from the portion of the flexible barrier means permanently attached to the base section of the frame.

Ideally, the excess material has predefined fold means. Advantageously, the predefined fold means assist with the stowing of the flexible barrier in the cavity of the frame.

Ideally, the base section and the side sections of material form a one piece flexible barrier.

Ideally, the base section and the side sections are continuous along their

corresponding sides to form the one piece flexible barrier.

Ideally, the flexible barrier comprises a single piece component having a peripheral portion forming a u-shaped frame connection portion and a central panel being integrally formed with and protruding upwardly from the base of the u-shaped portion, the central panel being separable from and attachable to the lateral portions of the u-shaped frame connection portion by watertight sealing means. Advantageously, this allows the flexible barrier means to be readily deployed and stowed. Alternatively, the flexible barrier comprises several barrier components joined about their corresponding sides.

Ideally, the attachable and separable portions of the flexible barrier are joined by a watertight joint.

Preferably, the attachable and separable portions of the flexible barrier are joined by a watertight zip arrangement.

Ideally, at least part of the periphery of the flexible barrier component is a frame engaging portion of the flexible barrier component.

Preferably, the frame engaging portion of the flexible barrier component extends along the base frame portion and the lateral upright frame portions and forms a watertight seal with the base frame portion and the lateral upright frame portions or intermediate components thereof.

Ideally, the frame engaging portion of the flexible barrier component has a base barrier portion which extends along the base frame portion and forms a watertight seal with the base frame portion or intermediate component thereof.

Preferably, the frame engaging portion of the flexible barrier component has at least two side barrier portions, at least one of which extends along each lateral upright frame portion and forms a watertight seal with the lateral upright frame portion or intermediate components thereof.

Ideally, the side barrier portions extend from the watertight seal they form with the lateral upright frame portions in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the lateral upright frame portions and towards the opposing lateral upright frame portion, the side barrier portion terminating in a joinable edge.

Preferably, the frame engaging portion of the flexible barrier component comprises multiple barrier components which are sealably joinable to form a continuous barrier component extending along the base frame portion and substantially along the lateral upright frame portions. Preferably, at least one additional barrier component is configured to join the joinable edges of the frame engaging barrier component to form a complete barrier which spans an internal space defined by the frame portions.

Ideally, the base portion of the frame engaging barrier component has an extended portion which extends substantially vertically upwards when the barrier is in the deployed position and is formed integrally with the base portion but is separable from at least a portion of the side barrier portions. Advantageously, this base portion is stowable in the base frame member under normal conditions.

Ideally, the extended portion of the base portion has a complementary joining edge which, when in the deployed position aligns with the joining edge of the side barrier portions.

Preferably, when the joining edges of the side barrier portions and the extended portion of the base portion are joined, the flexible barrier spans the internal space defined by the frame portions.

Ideally, the joining edges of the side barrier portions and the extended portion of the base portion are joinable to each other via a watertight zip arrangement.

Advantageously, the side barrier portions and base barrier portions can remain in their permanently attached position in both the stowed position and the deployed position, and any position therebetween.

Advantageously, this arrangement allows use of less material and requires less time and skill to stow the flexible barrier means.

Preferably, the flexible barrier means is manufactured from a flexible plastic material. Ideally, the flexible barrier means is manufactured from PVC, neoprene, or woven fabric.

Preferably, the flexible barrier means is manufactured from polyurethane coated nylon.

Preferably, the flexible barrier means is formed from any material capable of being watertight under flood water pressure and being capable of absorbing the forces transmitted via the flood water. Alternatively, at least part of the flexible barrier means is manufactured from an elastomeric material capable of elastic deformation.

Advantageously, the return of the elastomeric material to its undeformed state can be used to aid deployment and/or stowage of the flexible barrier means.

Preferably, stowing aid means are locatable on the flexible barrier means.

Ideally, the stowing aid means are flexible strips of elastomeric material.

Preferably, the stowing aid means are elastomeric portions formed integrally with the flexible barrier material.

Preferably, the stowing aid means urge the flexible barrier means into the stowed position.

Ideally, support means are attachable to at least a portion of the free peripheral edge of the flexible barrier means.

Preferably, the support means are rods, channels, or bars.

Ideally, the support means are stowable in or on the frame in the stowed position. Preferably, the support means is provided by the cover for the base section of the frame. Advantageously, a single component is designed to serve two functions.

Preferably, the support means is attachable along the side of the base section of the flexible barrier distal that and opposing the side attachable to the housing.

Ideally, when in the deployed position, the support means is locatable along the top of the deployed flexible barrier means and spans between the uprights across the width of the opening in the building.

Preferably, in the deployed position, the ends of the support means are attachable to the frame at corresponding attachment points locatable on the upright sections of the frame.

Alternatively, the support means are attachable along the non-perpendicular sides of the triangular portions of the excess material formed by the side sections of the flexible barrier.

Ideally, each side section of the flexible barrier has a separate support means attachable thereto. Ideally, when in the deployed position, the separate support means can be coupled together to span between the upright sections across the width of the doorway.

Advantageously, the support means aid the user to deploy the flexible barrier means and/or provide additional support with regards to strengthening the top portion of the flexible barrier means which spans between the uprights across the width of the opening in the building in the deployed position.

Alternatively, one or more of the upright frame sections has an extendable section for forming the support means.

Ideally, the extendable section is selectively projectable from the at least one upright frame section.

Preferably, once extended, the extendable section spans between the upright frame sections across the width of the doorway.

Ideally, the extendable section spans across the frame diagonally, in the main plane of the opening, from an upper portion of upright frame section to a lower portion of the opposing upright frame section.

Preferably, both upright frame sections have extendable portions.

Alternatively, the support means comprises at least one scissor mechanism locatable in at least one of the upright frame sections.

Ideally, the at least one scissor mechanism is locatable in at least one upright frame section in a vertical position.

Preferably, the at least one scissor mechanism comprises two rigid members having a pivot therebetween at their first ends.

Ideally, a first rigid member is rotatably coupled to the frame at a second end and a second rigid member is movably coupled to the frame or freely movable at a second end.

Preferably, when the second end of the second rigid member is moved vertically, the pivot between the two rigid members is projected towards a center point between the two upright frame sections. Advantageously, the scissor mechanism can be deployed to provide rigidity to the barrier means.

Ideally, frame connection members are incorporated into the flexible barrier means.

Preferably, the frame connection members are configured to form a connection with the upright frame sections in the deployed position.

Ideally the connection between the frame connection members and the upright frame sections is a quick fit connection.

Preferably, the connection between the frame connection members and the upright frame sections is a snap or press fit connection.

Ideally, the connection between the frame connection members and the upright frame sections forms a watertight seal.

Ideally, the frame connection members are rigid rods sewn into the flexible barrier means.

Preferably, the frame connection means are locatable at or about the area of the flexible barrier means between the side sections and the base section.

Alternatively, the frame connection members are formed integrally with the flexible barrier means during manufacture.

Advantageously, the frame connection member allows the excess material of the flexible barrier means to be connected to the frame along the side sections in the deployed position, providing greater stability and preventing bulging of the flexible barrier.

Preferably, the flexible barrier means has a means for retaining a cord.

Ideally, at least a part of the peripheral portion of the flexible barrier means has a through channel formed therein.

Preferably, the through channel is formed by folding the material of the flexible barrier back upon itself and joining a part of the now opposing surfaces leaving a channel there between.

Alternatively, the channel is formed by the attachment of additional material to at least part of the peripheral portions of the flexible barrier means. Further alternatively the channel is formed by the attachment of loops of material to at least part of the peripheral edge of the flexible barrier means.

Ideally, the loops are attached by welding, stitching, adhering or bonding or any other method providing sufficient strength to ensure the flexible barrier remains in position during use.

Preferably, the loops are attached by any means capable of preventing the barrier pulling away from the fixing under the weight of the flood water.

Ideally, a cord extends along the through channel.

Ideally, a cord is slidably movable in the through channel.

Preferably, the cord is also threadable through the peripheral portion of the flexible barrier not in contact with the frame.

Ideally, the cord is manufactured from nylon or similar material.

Alternatively, the cord is a webbing type material.

Ideally, the flexible barrier has a plurality of cords.

Preferably, where the flexible barrier has more than one cord, the flexible barrier has more than one through channel formed therein or the through channel is split so as to form more than one through channel therein.

Ideally, the peripheral portions of the flexible barrier are permanently attached to the uprights and the base member of the frame by an adhesive fixing.

Alternatively, the permanent attachment is provided by a clamping arrangement.

Alternatively, the permanent attachment is an adjustable clamping arrangement.

Advantageously, as the clamping arrangement can be adjusted, the flexible barrier can be replaced if required.

Ideally, the peripheral portions of the flexible barrier means are permanently attached to the upright frame member and the base frame members via compression of the peripheral portions of the flexible barrier means against a part of the frame via the clamping

arrangement. Preferably, the permanent attachment provided by the clamping arrangement ensures a watertight seal is formed between the frame and the flexible barrier means.

Preferably, the clamping arrangement comprises a first clamping member and a second clamping member.

Ideally, the second clamping member is a movable clamping member.

Ideally, the clamping arrangement comprises first and second mutually opposing clamping surfaces.

Preferably, at least one of the clamping surfaces is movable with respect to the other.

Ideally, at least one of the clamping surfaces is movable towards the other.

Preferably, at least one of the clamping surfaces has a recess formed therein for receiving the portion of the flexible barrier means carrying the cord.

Ideally, the recess is formed so that the cord is slidable with respect to the flexible barrier means.

Preferably, the flexible barrier means has multiple cords.

Ideally, at least one of the clamping surfaces has at least one recess formed therein which correspond to the at least one cord.

Advantageously, as at least one clamping surface has a recess for accommodating the peripheral portion of the flexible barrier means carrying the cord, or each cord where there are multiple cords, the flexible barrier means can be clamped to provide a watertight seal while still permitting the cord to be slidable relative to the flexible barrier means.

Preferably, one of the clamping surfaces is provided by an internal wall of the cavity of the frame members.

Preferably, one or more additional seals are provided by the clamping arrangement.

Ideally, the peripheral portion of the flexible barrier means can be double or triple sealed to the corresponding portion of the frame.

Ideally, the at least one additional seal is a fixed seal.

Preferably, the at least one additional fixed seal is formed by compression of the material of the flexible barrier means by the clamping means. Alternatively, an additional fixing is employed to form the at least one additional fixed seal.

Ideally, the at least one additional fixed seal is an adhesive seal.

Preferably, where the additional seals require the flexible barrier means to be fixably sealed between the clamping means, the flexible barrier means has slackening means for allowing relative movement between the fixably sealed and non-fixably sealed portions of the flexible barrier means.

Ideally, the slackening means is a corrugated or ribbed portion of the flexible barrier means between the fixably sealed portion of the flexible barrier means and the non-fixably sealed portion.

Advantageously, a fixed additional seal can be provided while allowing flexibility for an adjacent non fixed or semi-fixed seal.

Advantageously, if the seal formed by the clamping arrangement fails, redundancy is built into the watertight nature of the barrier due to the presence of additional seals.

Ideally, the frame acts as the first clamping surface.

Preferably, where the frame acts as the first clamping surface the second clamping surface is the movable clamping surface of the movable clamping arrangement.

Ideally, the movable clamping surface has the recess, or multiple recesses where multiple cords are utilized, formed therein.

Alternatively, the portion of the frame acting as a clamping surface has the recess, or multiple recesses where multiple cords are utilized, formed therein.

Preferably, the movable clamping surface of the movable clamping arrangement is movably attachable to the frame via an adjustable mechanical fixing.

Ideally, the movable clamping surface of the movable clamping arrangement is movably attachable to the frame via mechanical adjustable means such as one or more threaded bolts.

Preferably, as the mechanical adjustable means are tightened, the movable clamping surface moves towards the frame, compressing the flexible barrier means there between. Alternatively or additionally, the first clamping member has a retention means for retaining the movable clamping member in position.

Ideally, the retention means of the first clamping member is a clip or hook means.

Preferably, the movable clamping arrangement has means for engaging the retaining means of the first clamping member.

Ideally, at least a portion of the movable clamping means is contactable by the retention means of the first clamping member such that the movable clamping means is held in position once placed to compress the flexible barrier means.

Ideally, the movable clamping surface extends along the entire length of the frame. Preferably, the clamping arrangement is a V-clamp arrangement.

Preferably, the flexible barrier has at least one movement restriction means configured to help maintain its position when clamped by the clamping arrangement.

Ideally, the at least one movement restriction means of the flexible barrier is a portion of material which is thicker than the remainder of the flexible barrier material.

Preferably, the at least one movement restriction means protrudes from a clamping arrangement facing surface of the flexible barrier towards at least one of the clamping surfaces.

Ideally, at least one of the clamping surfaces have at least one corresponding receiving means which is formed to receive the at least one movement restriction means of the flexible barrier means.

Advantageously, once the clamping arrangement is secured such that it compresses the flexible barrier means, the at least one movement restriction feature of the flexible barrier means is inserted into the at least one receiving feature of at least one of the clamping means making it more difficult to remove the flexible barrier means from the clamping arrangement by exerting a pulling force having at least a component in the lateral direction of the longitudinal axis of the frame section attached thereto. Further advantageously, the irregular path which the barrier is forced to assume also provides a more arduous path for fluid to travel should the fluid attempt to squeeze alongside the flexible barrier means in an attempt to traverse the clamping arrangement.

Ideally, there are multiple movement restriction features and a corresponding number of receiving features insertable thereinto.

Alternatively, the movement restriction feature is an area of reduced thickness in the flexible barrier means.

Ideally, where the movement restriction feature is an area of reduced thickness in the flexible barrier means, the receiving feature of the at least one clamping surface is a protrusion insertable into the area of reduced thickness of the flexible barrier means.

Ideally, the first clamping surface has at least one movable clamping surface receiving means formed therein.

Preferably, the movable clamping surface is shaped to be insertable into the movable clamping surface receiving means of the first clamping surface.

Ideally, the movable clamping surface forces a portion of the flexible barrier means into the movable clamping surface receiving means of the first clamping surface and traps the flexible barrier means therebetween when the clamping arrangement is secured.

Advantageously, as the flexible barrier means is forced into the movable clamping surface receiving means, the flexible barrier is more difficult to remove from the clamping arrangement by exerting a pulling force having at least a component in the lateral direction of the longitudinal axis of the frame section attached thereto.

Further advantageously, the irregular path which the barrier is forced to assume also provides a more arduous path for fluid to travel should the fluid attempt to squeeze alongside the flexible barrier means in an attempt to traverse the clamping arrangement.

Ideally, the cord can be tensioned manually, mechanically, electrically, pneumatically, or hydraulically.

Preferably, the cord can be tensioned remotely. Advantageously, tensioning of the cord results in the base section of the excess material being pulled towards the frame and forming a surface spanning between the two upright sections of the frame.

Preferably, an outlet is provided in the flexible barrier means at or about the top of the seal formed with the upright sections of the frame.

Ideally, the outlet is formed in the wall of the through channel formed in the flexible barrier means.

Preferably, the outlet permits an excess length of cord to protrude there from.

Ideally, the outlet permits a loop of cord to protrude there from.

Preferably, the frame also has an outlet through which the excess length of cord protrudes.

Ideally, pulling the excess length of cord protruding from the outlet tensions the cord. Preferably, once tensioned the cord is locked in place, maintaining the required level of tension.

Ideally, the cord is locked in place using projections locatable on the outside of frame.

Preferably, the cord is looped around the projections on the frame.

Ideally, the frame has at least one cover means.

Preferably, the cover means fit over the open face of the channel sections.

Ideally, the frame has a cover means for each channel section.

Preferably, the cover means for base section of the frame also acts as the support means.

Preferably, the barrier can be retro-fitted into an existing door frame.

Ideally, when retro-fitted into an existing door frame the housing is flush with the existing surfaces of the existing door frame.

Alternatively, the barrier can be manufactured as an integral part of a door frame.

In a still further arrangement, the barrier can be designed to be mechanically coupled to an outer surface of a wall on either the inside or outside of the door opening. Ideally, the wall is an internal wall in a building such as that forming part of a home, art gallery, or other such building where it is desirable to prevent internal damage by flood water.

Ideally, one or more frame members have one or more recesses formed for receiving a peripheral portion of the flexible barrier means, most preferably housing at least one cord.

Preferably, the one or more recesses extend along all or part of the length of the at least one frame member.

Ideally, the recess extends along a bottom corner of the frame member.

Preferably, the movable clamping arrangement is an elongate clamping bar having a clamping surface along one longitudinal edge of the clamping bar formed for compressing the peripheral portion of the flexible barrier means and the at least one cord into the one or more recess forming a watertight seal.

Ideally, a number of adjustable fasteners couple the elongate clamping bar to the frame and are spaced out longitudinally along the elongate clamping bar.

Preferably, there are two or more recesses formed for receiving two or more cords, the recesses extending along one corner of the frame members and being spaced apart a short distance from one another in a parallel configuration.

Ideally, a flood warning system is incorporated into the barrier comprising water detection means and alarm generating means.

The invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings which show by way of example several embodiments of an apparatus in accordance with the invention. In the drawing:

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of the barrier in a partly deployed position;

Figure 2 is a second perspective view of a first embodiment of the barrier in a more advanced stage of deployment;

Figure 3 is a perspective view of a frame without cover members;

Figure 4 is a second perspective view of the frame with cover members; Figure 5 is an exploded view of the frame;

Figure 6 is a detailed end view of a first embodiment of a clamping arrangement of the frame;

Figure 7 is a perspective view of the clamping arrangement;

Figure 8 is a part top plan view of the upright frame member with the covering members removed;

Figure 9 is a detail view of a component of the first embodiment of a clamping arrangement;

Figure 10 is a part top plan view of the upright frame member with the covering members removed and showing an additional sealing component;

Figure 1 1 is a perspective view of the barrier in a more advanced stage of deployment and showing the support member;

Figure 12 is a sectional view of a frame section of a second embodiment of the barrier having a clamping arrangement for use with a flexible barrier having a single cord;

Figure 13 is a perspective cut-away view of figure 12 showing the frame section having a clamping arrangement for use with a flexible barrier having a single cord;

Figure 14 is a sectional view of a frame section of a third embodiment of the barrier having a clamping arrangement for use with a flexible barrier having a single cord and having an internal channel for receiving the bolts of the clamping arrangement;

Figure 15 is a perspective cut-away view of figure 14 showing the frame section having a clamping arrangement for use with a flexible barrier having a single cord and having an internal channel for receiving the bolts of the clamping arrangement;

Figure 16 is a sectional view of a frame section of a fourth embodiment of the barrier having a clamping arrangement for use with a flexible barrier having a single cord;

Figure 17 is a cut-away perspective view of figure 16 showing the frame section having a clamping arrangement for use with a flexible barrier having a single cord; Figure 18 is a sectional view of a clamping arrangement of a fifth embodiment of the barrier wherein the movable clamping surface of the clamping arrangement is adapted to receive the flexible barrier thereunder;

Figure 19 is a cut away perspective view of figure 18 showing the clamping arrangement wherein the movable clamping surface of the clamping arrangement is adapted to receive the flexible barrier means thereunder;

Figure 20 is a sectional view of a clamping arrangement of a sixth embodiment of the barrier wherein the movable clamping surface of the clamping arrangement is adapted to receive the flexible barrier thereunder, the flexible barrier and/or a clamping surface having features for increasing grip between the flexible barrier and the clamping surface;

Figure 21 is a perspective view of figure 20 showing the clamping arrangement wherein the movable clamping surface of the clamping arrangement is adapted to receive the flexible barrier thereunder, the flexible barrier and/or a clamping surface having features for increasing grip between the flexible barrier and the clamping surface;

Figure 22 is a sectional view of a clamping arrangement of a seventh embodiment of the barrier wherein the flexible barrier and clamping surface of the clamping arrangement have movement restriction features in the form of complimentary ridged projections;

Figure 23 is a perspective view of figure 22 showing the clamping arrangement wherein the flexible barrier and clamping surface of the clamping arrangement have movement restriction features in the form of complimentary ridged projections;

Figure 24 is a sectional view of a clamping arrangement of an eighth embodiment of the barrier wherein the flexible barrier has two cords;

Figure 25 is a perspective view of the clamping arrangement of figure 24 wherein the flexible barrier has two cords;

Figure 26 is a sectional view of a ninth embodiment of the barrier showing a frame section having a clamping arrangement for use with a flexible barrier having a single cord, the movable clamping arrangement being formed for insertion into movable clamping arrangement receiving arrangement on the frame; Figure 27 is a perspective view of the frame section having a clamping arrangement of figure 26 for use with a flexible barrier having a single cord, the movable clamping arrangement formed for insertion into movable clamping arrangement receiving means on the frame;

Figure 28 a sectional view of a tenth embodiment of the barrier showing a frame section having a clamping arrangement for use with a flexible barrier having a single cord, the movable clamping arrangement being formed for insertion into movable clamping arrangement receiving arrangement on the frame;

Figure 29 is a perspective view of a frame section having the clamping arrangement of figure 28 for use with a flexible barrier having a single cord, the movable clamping arrangement being formed for insertion into movable clamping arrangement receiving arrangement on the frame;

Figure 30 is a sectional view of an eleventh embodiment of the barrier having a clamping arrangement wherein the movable clamping arrangement is held in place by a retention feature on the frame;

Figure 31 is a perspective view of the clamping arrangement of figure 30 wherein the movable clamping arrangement is held in place by a retention feature on the frame;

Figure 32 is a sectional view of a twelfth embodiment of the barrier having a clamping arrangement wherein the flexible barrier has a movement restriction feature in the form of a peripheral portion of increased thickness;

Figure 33 is a perspective view of the clamping arrangement of figure 32 wherein the flexible barrier has a movement restriction feature in the form of a peripheral portion of increased thickness;

Figure 34 is a sectional view of a thirteenth embodiment of the barrier showing frame section having an alternative clamping arrangement for use with a flexible barrier having a single cord;

Figure 35 is a perspective view of a frame section having the clamping arrangement of figure 34 for use with a flexible barrier having a single cord; Figure 36 is a perspective view of the barrier in position across an opening with the flexible barrier in a deployed position and showing the frame portions;

Figure 37 is a perspective view of the frame portions in position on an opening and with the flexible barrier in a stowed position;

Figure 38 is a perspective view of the barrier in position across an opening with the flexible barrier means in a deployed position;

Figure 39 is a partial sectional view showing the frame portion formed integrally with a door frame;

Figure 40 is a partial perspective view showing the frame formed integrally with a door frame;

Figure 41 is a further partial sectional view showing the frame portion formed integrally with a door frame;

Figure 42 is a further partial perspective view showing the frame formed integrally with a door frame;

Figure 43 is a sectional view showing the flexible barrier in the stowed position in the base portion of the frame;

Figure 44 is a perspective cut-away view showing the flexible barrier in the stowed position in the base portion of the frame;

Figure 45 is a partial front view showing the flexible barrier in the deployed position and showing a portion of one zip;

Figure 46 is a partial perspective view showing the flexible barrier in the deployed position, the flexible barrier being housed in the frame and showing a portion of one zip;

Figure 47 is a partial side cut-away view showing the clamping arrangement and zip; Figure 48 is a partial front cut-away view showing the bottom portion of the zip; and Figure 49 is a partial perspective cut-away view of figure 48.

Referring to the drawings generally, there is shown a barrier indicated generally by the reference numeral 1 configured for preventing ingress of water through an opening in a building not shown. The barrier 1 has a frame 2 having a base frame member 3 and two lateral upright frame members 4 and a flexible barrier member 5 having all of three peripheral portions 6 of the flexible barrier member 5 permanently attached along the length of the base frame member 3 and the two lateral upright members 4. This means that no relative movement occurs between the permanently attached parts of the peripheral portions 6 of the flexible barrier member 5 and the upright lateral frame members 4 when the barrier 1 is deployed between the stowed position, see Figure 4 and the deployed position see Figures 1 and 2.

The permanent attachment between the flexible barrier member 5 and the frame 2 remains in place in both the stowed position and the deployed position. The height of the flexible barrier member 5 is predetermined so that the flexible barrier member 5 extends to a height above that of typical flood waters. By typical flood waters we mean the average height flood waters reach above ground floor level. Advantageously, as the seal between the flexible barrier member 5 and the frame 2 remains permanently attached during stowing, deployment, and operation, the barrier 1 can maintain its watertight integrity without the requirement to move the lateral peripheral portion 6 of the flexible barrier member 5 relative to the uprights 4 of the frame 2 so as not to compromise the associated seal.

The flexible barrier member 5 is contained in cavities 7 in the frame members 3, 4 in the stowed position. The frame members 3, 4 are manufactured channel section 3, 4 defining the cavities 7 there between for housing the flexible barrier member 5 in the stowed position. The frame 2 has a U-shaped channel section 3, 4 having a base frame section 3 and two upright frame sections 4, one upright frame section 4 being joined at each end of the base frame section 3 by a mitre joint or any suitable jointing arrangement. The two upright frame sections 4 and the base frame section 3 are separate components which are welded or mechanically fixed to form the u-shaped section.

In an embodiment not shown in the drawings, both upright frame sections are movably attached to the base frame by a pivotal joint at their corresponding ends. This embodiment aids the operator with stowing of the flexible barrier member 5 by pushing the excess material towards the cavities 7 by moving the upright frame sections about the pivotal joint.

The base frame section 3 has two separable components 1 1 , 12 see Figure 5.

Advantageously, the separable base frame sections 1 1 , 12 allow the barrier 1 to be located into the recess of an opening by temporarily reducing the overall length of the barrier 1 . The two separable components 1 1 , 12 of the base frame 3 are joined by a jointing section 14, preferably centrally. In use, the frame 2 is located along the bottom and extends at least partially upwards along the sides of a building opening. Advantageously, when in the stowed position, the flexible barrier member 5 is entirely located in the cavity 7 of the channel section 3, 4. The frame is manufactured from metal or metal alloy and is treated to be anti-corrosive. Specific materials for the frame 2 are aluminum or steel and the steel can be galvanized or stainless. Alternatively, the frame 2 can be manufactured from a composite material such as glass reinforced plastic or a similar material. It will of course be appreciated that the frame 2 can be manufactured from any material with sufficient strength and rigidity to take the forces applied through the flexible barrier member 5 from the flood water so that the frame 2 does not buckle or pull away from a structure in which it is retained.

The flexible barrier member 5 is permanently attached to the frame 2 along the two upright frame sections 4 and the base frame section 3. The permanent attachment is located inside the cavity 7 of the frame 2. Advantageously, once fixed, the flexible barrier member 5 prevents ingress of flood water to the height of the permanent attachment on the upright sections 4. The flexible barrier member 5 is configured to maintain the permanent attachment between itself and the frame 2 at all times and to extend between the upright sections 4 of the frame 2, across an opening in a building in the deployed position. In use, the flexible barrier member 5 is deployed from within the frame 2 into a deployed position wherein the flexible barrier member 5 extends between the upright sections 4 of the frame 2, across an opening in a building.

Referring particularly to Figures 1 and 2, the flexible barrier member 5 has an excess of material beyond that required to span the opening in a building. Advantageously, as the flexible barrier member 5 comprises an excess of material, the flexible barrier member 5 can be deployed without the need to move the peripheral portions 6 of the flexible barrier 5 relative to the uprights 4 of the frame 2 maintaining the integrity of the permanently attached seal. The excess of material has side sections 15 which extend from the portion of the flexible barrier member 5 permanently attached to the upright frame sections 4. The side sections 15 are of triangular shape. The excess of material also has a base section 16 extending from the portion of the flexible barrier member 5 permanently attached to the base section 3 of the frame 2. The excess material has a predefined fold arrangement.

Advantageously, the predefined fold arrangement assists with the stowing of the flexible barrier 5 in the cavity 7 of the frame 2. The base section 16 and the side sections 15 of excess material form a one piece flexible barrier 5. The base section 16 and the side sections 15 are continuous along their corresponding sides to form the one piece flexible barrier 5.

Alternatively, in an arrangement not shown in the drawings, the flexible barrier 5 comprises several barrier components joined about their corresponding sides. The flexible barrier components are joined by a watertight joint such as a watertight zip arrangement. Advantageously, this arrangement allows use of less material and requires less time and skill to stow the flexible barrier.

The flexible barrier means can be manufactured from a flexible plastic material such as PVC or similar materials or can be manufactured from a woven fabric material. It will of course be appreciated that the flexible barrier member 5 is formed from any material capable of being watertight under flood water pressure and being capable of absorbing the forces transmitted via the flood water. Alternatively, at least part of the flexible barrier member 5 is manufactured from an elastomeric material capable of elastic deformation. Advantageously, the return of the elastomeric material to its original state can be used to aid deployment and/or stowage of the flexible barrier member 5. Stowing/deployment aid arrangements are located on the flexible barrier member 5 including flexible strips of elastomeric material or elastomeric portions formed integrally with the flexible barrier material. The stowing/deployment aid arrangements urge the flexible barrier 5 into the stowed/deployed position.

A support member 18 is attached to the free peripheral portions 19 of the flexible barrier member 5 and the support members 18 can be provided by rods or bars. The support members are stowable in or on the frame 2 in the stowed position. In the embodiment shown in the drawings, the support member 18 is provided by the cover 18 for the base section 3 of the frame 2. Advantageously, a single component 18 is designed to serve two functions. The support member 18 is attachable along the side of the base section 16 of the flexible barrier 5 distal that and opposing the side attached to the frame 2. When in the deployed position, the support member 18 is located along the top of the deployed flexible barrier member 5 and spans between the frame uprights 4 across the width of the opening in the building. In the deployed position, the ends of the support member 18 are attached to the frame 2 at corresponding attachment points located on the upright sections 4 of the frame 2.

In an alternative arrangement not shown in the drawings, the support members are attachable along the non-perpendicular sides 21 of the triangular portions 15 of the excess material formed by the side sections 15 of the flexible barrier 5. When in the deployed position, the separate support members can be coupled together to span between the upright sections 4 across the width of the doorway. Advantageously, the support means aid the user to deploy the flexible barrier means and/or provide additional support with regards to strengthening the top portion of the flexible barrier means which spans between the uprights across the width of the opening in the building in the deployed position.

The peripheral portions 6, 19, 21 of the flexible barrier member 5 has a through channel 25 formed therein, see Figures 6 and 8. The through channel 25 is formed by folding the material of the flexible barrier 5 back upon itself and joining a part of the now opposing surfaces leaving a channel 25 there between. Alternatively, the channel is formed by the attachment of additional material to at least part of the peripheral portions of the flexible barrier member 5. Further alternatively, the channel is formed by the attachment of loops of material to at least part of the peripheral portion of the flexible barrier 5. The loops can be attached by welding, stitching, adhering or bonding or any other method providing sufficient strength to ensure the flexible barrier remains in position during use. A cord 26 is located and is preferably slidably movable along the through channel and the cord 26 is manufactured from nylon or a similar material.

The peripheral portions 6 of the flexible barrier 5 are permanently attached to the uprights 4 and the base members 3 of the frame 2 by a movable clamping arrangement indicated generally by the reference numeral 27. Advantageously, as the clamping arrangement 27 can be moved, the flexible barrier 5 can be replaced if required. The peripheral portions 6 of the flexible barrier 5 are permanently attached to the upright frame members 4 and the base frame members 3 via compression of the peripheral portions 6 of the flexible barrier 5 against a part of the frame 2 via the clamping arrangement 27. The permanent attachment provided by the clamping arrangement 27 ensures a watertight seal is formed between the frame 2 and the flexible barrier member 5.

The clamping arrangement 27 has first and second mutually opposing clamping surfaces 31 , 32 see Figure 6 and one of the clamping surfaces 31 is movable towards the other. The clamping surface 31 has a recess 33 formed therein for receiving the portion of the flexible barrier 5 carrying the cord 26. The recess 33 is formed so that the cord 26 is slidable with respect to the flexible barrier 5 and the frame 2. One of the clamping surfaces 32 is provided by an internal wall 35 of the cavity 7 of the frame member 2. Advantageously, because the clamping arrangement 27 having a recess 33 for accommodating the portion of the flexible barrier 5 carrying the cord 26, the flexible barrier 5 can be clamped to provide a watertight seal while still permitting the cord 26 to be slidable relative to the flexible barrier and frame. This allows the excess material of the flexible barrier 5 to be moved from the stowed position to the deployed position. One or more additional seals are provided by the clamping arrangement 27 simply being designed to grip further parts of the peripheral portions 6 of the flexible barrier member 5. The flexible barrier 5 can be double or triple sealed to the frame 2. Advantageously, if the seal formed by the clamping arrangement fails, redundancy is built into the watertight nature of the barrier 1 due to the presence of additional seals.

The frame wall 35 acts as the first clamping surface 32 and the second clamping surface 31 is provided by a movable clamping member 37 having the clamping surface 31 . The movable clamping member 37 has the recess 33 formed therein. The movable clamping member 37 is movably attached to the frame 2 via an adjustable mechanical fixing 38 such as a threaded bolt and nut 38 passed through bores 41 in the clamping member see Figure 9. As the bolt is tightened, the movable clamping surface 31 moves towards the frame 2, compressing the flexible barrier 5 there between. The movable clamping member 37 extends along the entire length of the frame 2. The clamping arrangement 27 is a V-clamp

arrangement 37.

In figure 10, an alternative clamping arrangement 27 is shown where the material of the flexible barrier 5 is further extended past the cord 26 and secured to the frame by compression of the movable clamping member 37. This provides an additional seal, allowing redundancy should the initial seal fail. It would be understood by a person skilled in the art that more additional seals could be provided in a similar manner to build in further

redundancy.

In use, the cord 26 can be tensioned by the operator. Advantageously, tensioning of the cord 26 results in the base section 16 of the excess material being pulled towards the frame 2 and forming a surface spanning between the two upright sections 4 of the frame 2. An outlet is provided in the flexible barrier 5 at or about the top of the seal formed with the upright sections 4 of the frame 2. The outlet is formed in a wall of the through channel formed in the flexible barrier means. The outlet permits an excess length of cord 26 to protrude there from. The frame 2 also has an outlet 42 through which the excess length of cord 26 protrudes. In use, pulling the excess length of cord 26 protruding from the outlet 42 tensions the cord 26. Once tensioned the cord 26 is locked in place, maintaining the required level of tension. The cord 26 is locked in place using projections locatable on the outside of frame 2. The cord 26 is looped around the projections on the frame 2. The frame 2 has a cover 18, see Figure 5 for each channel section 3, 4. The cover 18 for the base section of the frame also acts as the support member 18.

The barrier 1 can be retro-fitted into an existing door frame using rawl plugs connectors 51 , see Figure 5 or similar fixing members. When retro-fitted into an existing door frame the frame 2 is flush with the existing surfaces of the existing door frame. Alternatively, the barrier 1 can be manufactured as an integral part of a door frame. In a still further arrangement, the barrier 1 can be designed to be mechanically coupled to an outer surface of a wall on either side of the door opening.

In a second embodiment as shown in figures 12 and 13, the peripheral portion 206 of the flexible barrier 207 is folded around the cord 201 which is located in a recess 202 extending longitudinally along the length of a bottom corner of the frame member 203 and held in position in the recess 203 by a portion of the movable clamping arrangement 204. The movable clamping arrangement 204 is fixed in position to the frame member 203 by a fasteners 205 which passes through the frame member 203. The movable clamping arrangement is an elongate clamping bar 21 1 having a clamping surface 212 along one longitudinal edge of the bar 21 1 formed for compressing the peripheral portion 206 of the flexible barrier 207 and the cord 201 into the recess 202 forming a watertight seal. A number of adjustable fasteners couple the elongate fastening bar 21 1 to the frame member spaced along and proximal the other longitudinal edge of the bar 21 1 .

In a third embodiment as shown in figures 14 and 15, the cord 201 is located in a recess 202 as in the second embodiment and again held in position by a portion of the movable clamping arrangement 204. In the third embodiment the fasteners 205 do not pass through the frame member 203, but rather pass into an internal channel 301 formed in the frame. Advantageously, no through holes must be formed in the frame compromising its integrity. The movable clamping arrangement is an elongate clamping bar 21 1 having a clamping surface 212 along one longitudinal edge of the bar 21 1 formed for compressing the peripheral portion 206 of the flexible barrier 207 and the cord 201 into the recess 202 forming _3Q a watertight seal. A number of adjustable fasteners couple the elongate fastening bar 21 1 to the frame member spaced along and proximal the other longitudinal edge of the bar 21 1 .

In a fourth embodiment as shown in figures 16 and 17, the cord is located in a recess 202 as in the second embodiment and again held in position by a portion of the movable clamping arrangement 204. In the fourth embodiment the fasteners 205 pass through the frame 203 but the frame has a raised portion 401 and a channel 402 formed beneath the raised portion into which the fasteners 205 are secured. The movable clamping arrangement is an elongate clamping bar 21 1 having a clamping surface 212 along one longitudinal edge of the bar 21 1 formed for compressing the peripheral portion 206 of the flexible barrier 207 and the cord 201 into the recess 202 forming a watertight seal. A number of adjustable fasteners couple the elongate fastening bar 21 1 to the frame member spaced along and proximal the other longitudinal edge of the bar 21 1 .

Advantageously the surface of the frame through which the fastener passes 403 has no portions of protrusion and can as a result be fitted flush to other components. The ramps leading to the raised portion 401 act as a barrier to flood water slowly leaking through.

In a fifth embodiment as shown in figures 18 and 19, the flexible barrier 501 passes beneath the movable clamping arrangement 502. The movable clamping arrangement has a section 503 removed from its flexible barrier contacting surface 504 which allows the flexible barrier 501 to pass thereunder and be clamped between the movable clamping arrangement 502 and the base of the frame member 505. The movable clamping arrangement is an elongate clamping bar 51 1 having a clamping surface 512 along one longitudinal edge of the bar 51 1 formed for compressing the peripheral portion 515 of the flexible barrier 501 forming a watertight seal. A number of adjustable fasteners couple the elongate fastening bar 51 1 to the frame member spaced along and proximal the other longitudinal edge of the bar 51 1 .

In a sixth embodiment as shown in figures 20 and 21 , the movable clamping arrangement 601 has a section 602 removed from its flexible barrier contacting surface which accommodates passage thereunder by the flexible barrier 603. The surface of the splice 602 which contacts the flexible barrier 603 has a serrated surface texture 604 formed therein which increases grip on the flexible barrier 603. The movable clamping arrangement is an elongate clamping bar 61 1 having a clamping surface 612 along one longitudinal edge of the bar 61 1 formed for compressing the peripheral portion 615 of the flexible barrier 603 forming a watertight seal. A number of adjustable fasteners couple the elongate fastening bar 61 1 to the frame member spaced along and proximal the other longitudinal edge of the bar 61 1 .

In a seventh embodiment as shown in figures 22 and 23, the serrated surface texture 701 is formed on the portion of the frame 702 which opposes the portion of the movable clamping arrangement 703 having the splice 704 therein. The movable clamping

arrangement is an elongate clamping bar 61 1 having a clamping surface 612 along one longitudinal edge of the bar 61 1 formed for compressing the peripheral portion 615 of the flexible barrier 603 forming a watertight seal. A number of adjustable fasteners couple the elongate fastening bar 61 1 to the frame member spaced along and proximal the other longitudinal edge of the bar 61 1 .

In the sixth and seventh embodiments as described above, the flexible barrier 603 may have a serrated surface texture which compliments the serrated surface texture of the frame member and/or the movable clamping arrangement and as such further enhances the grip between these components.

In an eighth embodiment as shown in figures 24 and 25, the flexible barrier 801 has two cords 802, 803. Recesses 804, 805, are formed in the frame member 806 which are complimentary in shape to the cords 802, 803. The cords 802, 803, and the flexible barrier 801 are held in the recesses 804, 805 by the movable clamping arrangement 807. The recesses extend along one corner of the frame member 806 and are spaced apart a short distance from one another in a parallel configuration.

Advantageously, the additional cord 803 and associated recess 805 make it more difficult for the flexible barrier 801 to be removed from between the frame member 806 and movable clamping arrangement 807, even if significant force is applied. In addition, the additional cord 803 and associated recess 805 provide a more arduous path for any water which attempts to pass between the flexible barrier 801 and the frame 806 and/or the movable clamping arrangement 807 and double seals the flexible barrier 801 to the frame member 806.

In a ninth embodiment as shown in figures 26 and 27, the movable clamping arrangement 901 is formed such that a portion 902 is inserted into a portion of the frame 903 adapted to receive the portion 902 of the movable clamping arrangement 901 . The portion 902 of the movable clamping arrangement 901 forces the flexible barrier 904 and cord 905 into the portion of the frame 903 decreasing the likelihood that the flexible barrier 904 and cord 905 could be removed from the clamping arrangement even if significant force is applied. The recess 907 is formed for receiving the flexible barrier 904, cord 905, and also a portion of the longitudinal edge of the clamping arrangement 901 having the clamping surface 910 so that when the clamping surface 910 is in position and fixed by the adjustable mechanical festeners, the actual bar abuts a portion of the surface of the recess 907.

In a tenth embodiment as shown in figures 28 and 29, the movable clamping arrangement 1001 has an upwardly turned lip 1002 extending along the same longitudinal edge of the clamping bar carrying the clamping surface inserted into a portion 1003 of the frame 1004 adapted to receive the upwardly turned lip 1002 of the movable clamping arrangement. The upwardly turned lip 1002 of the movable clamping arrangement 1001 is shaped to maximise the clamping effect on the clamped flexible barrier and cord and to reduce the risk of the cord and barrier slipping out of the clamping arrangement.

In an eleventh embodiment of the barrier as shown in figures 30 and 31 , the frame member 1 101 has a movable clamping arrangement retaining member 1 102. The movable clamping arrangement 1 103 has a member 1 104 for engaging the retaining member 1 102 of the frame 1 101 . The movable clamping arrangement 1 103 is held in position by the engagement between the retaining member 1 102 and the member for engaging the retaining member 1 104 once placed to compress the flexible barrier 1 105. The engagement member 1 104 and retaining member 1 102 are formed for press fitting engagement. Advantageously, the movable clamping arrangement 1 103 can be secured in place to compress the flexible barrier 1 105 without the use of fasteners such as that shown in embodiments one to ten. The engagement member 1 104 extends along the longitudinal edge of the clamping bar 1 103 distal to the clamping surface. The retaining member 1 102 is an elongate member protruding from the floor of the frame member 1 101 in a corresponding location.

In a twelfth embodiment as shown in figures 32 and 33, the flexible barrier 1201 has an area of increased thickness 1202 configured to help maintain its position when clamped by the movable clamping arrangement 1203. The area of increased thickness 1202 protrudes from a movable clamping arrangement facing surface 1204 of the flexible barrier 1201 . The movable clamping arrangement 1203 has a corresponding receiving feature 1205 which is formed to receive the area of increased thickness 1202 to further enhance the clamping effect producing a water tight seal of high integrity.

In a thirteenth embodiment as shown in figures 34 and 35, the movable clamping arrangement 1301 has a cord contacting end 1302 and a securing end 1203. The securing end is secured against a retaining feature 1304 formed on the frame and positioned such that the cord contacting end 1302 compresses the cord 1305 and the flexible barrier 1306. The bowed shape of the movable clamping arrangement 1301 allows for the use of less material than more solid movable clamping arrangements such as that of feature 901 of figure 26. An adjustable mechanical fastener acts on the bowed movable clamping arrangement passing through the movable clamping arrangement into a retaining nut housed in the frame member below. As the fastener is tightened the bowed movable clamping arrangement is straightened applying an increasing compressive force onto the cord contacting end and onto the flexible barrier and cord.

In any of the embodiments described above it is to be understood that the frame portions of the barrier can be installed separately, formed integrally within, or formed integrally and/or extruded as part of the frame members of the door frame or frame of any other such opening in which the barrier is to be utilised.

Figures 39 and 40 show the frame portions of the barrier 100 formed as an integral extrusion of a door frame 101 . In this case frame member 100 of the barrier is located behind the door 102. The clamping arrangement 1301 of figures 34 and 35 is used to clamp the flexible barrier 107 in the bottom corner of the frame member 100.

Figures 41 and 42 show the frame portions 103 of the barrier again extruded as part of the door frame 104 and behind the door 105. Figures 47 to 49 again show the barrier 106 in a deployed position with the zip 107 joining the u-shaped frame connecting portion 108 and the central panel 109.

As shown in figures 43 and 44, it is possible to house the flexible barrier 106 in the existing frame members of existing PVC extruded frame member doors without additional forward or rearward protruding frame members of the type shown in figures 39 to 42. When the flexible barrier 106 is in the stowed position it is positioned within the base portion 1 10 of the frame. The base portion of the frame has a cover 1 1 1 which protects and prevents the flexible barrier 106 from being visible when stowed but which is easily removable in the event of a flood.

Figure 45 and 46 also show the barrier located in the existing door frame members with the flexible barrier 106 in a deployed position. The zips 107 join the upright frame connection portion 108 of the flexible barrier and the central panel 109. In this embodiment it is possible to form or cut longitudinal slots into the door facing surfaces of the upright door frame members to allow access to the upright frame connecting portions 108 of the flexible barrier 106. Quick release means such as a pull string are attached to the upright frame connecting portion 108 for deployment.

As shown in figures 36 to 38, in use the barrier is initially in a stowed position as in figure 37. When deployment of the barrier is required, a user would remove the cover 1 1 1 from the base portion 1 10 of the frame and any additional covers provided on the side frame portions (not shown), releasing all portions of the flexible barrier 106 from the frame. The user would proceed by pulling the zips 107 upwards to join the u-shaped frame connection portion 108 and the central panel 109 of the flexible barrier. In Figure 36 and 37 the barrier is retrofitted to the reveals of the door. In figure 38, the barrier is integrally formed with the door frame, aluminium or PVC or any suitable material. Where the clamping arrangement is to be fixed to a PVC or other plastic or composite frame, suitable reinforcing means such as metal rods or bars proximal the clamping arrangement can be implemented.

In relation to the detailed description of the different embodiments of the invention, it will be understood that one or more technical features of one embodiment can be used in combination with one or more technical features of any other embodiment where the transferred use of the one or more technical features would be immediately apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art to carry out a similar function in a similar way on the other embodiment.

In the preceding discussion of the invention, unless stated to the contrary, the disclosure of alternative values for the upper or lower limit of the permitted range of a parameter, coupled with an indication that one of the said values is more highly preferred than the other, is to be construed as an implied statement that each intermediate value of said parameter, lying between the more preferred and the less preferred of said alternatives, is itself preferred to said less preferred value and also to each value lying between said less preferred value and said intermediate value.

The features disclosed in the foregoing description or the following drawings, expressed in their specific forms or in terms of a means for performing a disclosed function, or a method or a process of attaining the disclosed result, as appropriate, may separately, or in any combination of such features be utilised for realising the invention in diverse forms thereof as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1 . A barrier for preventing ingress of water through an opening, the barrier comprising a frame having a base frame member and two lateral upright frame members and a flexible barrier means having all or a substantial part of three peripheral portions of the flexible barrier means permanently attached along all or a substantial part of the length of the base frame member and the two lateral upright members so that no relative movement occurs between the permanently attached parts of the peripheral portions of the flexible barrier and the upright lateral frame members when the barrier is deployed between a stowed position and a deployed position.

2. A barrier according to claim 1 , wherein the permanent attachment between the

flexible barrier and the frame remains in place in both the stowed position and the deployed position.

3. A barrier according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the height of the flexible barrier is predetermined so that the flexible barrier extends to a height up to 1 .2m.

4. A barrier according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the opening is an opening in a building structure or another structure such as a perimeter or other such wall.

5. A barrier according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the frame members comprise at least one channel section, the at least one channel section comprising walls defining a cavity therebetween, at least a portion of the cavity housing the flexible barrier means in the stowed position.

6. A barrier according to claim 5, wherein the frame comprises a U-shaped channel section having a base frame section and two upright frame sections, one upright frame section being locatable at or about each end of the base frame section, the two upright frame sections and the base frame section being separate components which are joined to form the u-shaped section, or formed as one integral component, the frame being locatable along the bottom and extending at least partially upwards along the sides of an opening.

7. A barrier according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the base frame

member has at least two separable components allowing the barrier to be located into the recess of an opening by temporarily reducing the overall length of the barrier.

8. A barrier according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the frame is

manufactured from any one of or any combination of metals or metal alloys including but not limited to aluminum, steel, galvanized or stainless steel, composite material such as glass reinforced plastic or similar, or a plastic material.

9. A barrier according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the frame is formed integrally with a door frame, window frame, or other such frame of an opening in a building either within the existing frame members of the door frame, window frame, or other such frame, or as an extrusion or other such projection therefrom.

10. A barrier according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the flexible barrier means comprises one or more components, the flexible barrier having a peripheral frame connecting portion and a central panel being integrally formed with and protruding upwardly from the base of the frame connecting portion, the central panel being separable from and attachable to lateral portions of the frame connecting portion by watertight sealing means.

1 1 . A barrier according to claim 10, wherein the watertight sealing means are watertight zips.

12. A barrier according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the flexible barrier means is manufactured from any one of or any combination of a flexible plastic material such as PVC, neoprene, woven fabric, or polyurethane coated nylon.

13. A barrier according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a peripheral portion of the flexible barrier means has a means for enhancing clamping.

14. A barrier according to claim 13, wherein the means for enhancing clamping is at least one through channel formed in at least a part of the peripheral portion of the flexible barrier means, the at least one through channel being formed by folding the material of the flexible barrier means back upon itself and joining a part of the opposing surfaces leaving at least one through channel there between.

15. A barrier according to claim 14, wherein at least one cord extends along the through channel of the flexible barrier means.

16. A barrier according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the permanent

attachment of the peripheral portions of the flexible barrier means is provided by an adjustable clamping arrangement.

17. A barrier according to claim 16, wherein the clamping arrangement is an adjustable clamping arrangement such that the peripheral portions of the flexible barrier means are permanently attached to the frame members via compression of the peripheral portions of the flexible barrier means against a part of the frame via the adjustable clamping arrangement, forming a watertight seal.

18. A barrier according to claim 16 or 17, wherein the adjustable clamping arrangement comprises a first clamping member and a second clamping member, the second clamping member being a movable clamping member, the clamping members comprising respective first and second mutually opposing clamping surfaces.

19. A barrier according to claim 16 when dependent on claim 13, wherein the clamping arrangement has at least one recess formed therein for receiving the portion of the flexible barrier means having the means for enhancing clamping.

20. A barrier according to any one of claims 18 or 19, wherein the movable clamping member of the adjustable clamping arrangement is movably attachable to the frame via adjustable mechanical means, such that as the adjustable mechanical means are tightened, the movable clamping member moves towards the frame, compressing the flexible barrier means therebetween.

21 . A barrier according to any one of claims 18 to 20, wherein the first clamping member has a retention means for retaining the movable clamping member in position, the movable clamping member having means for engaging the retention means of the first clamping member such that the movable clamping member is held in position.

22. A barrier according to any one of claims 16 to 21 , wherein the flexible barrier and/or the first clamping member and/or the second clamping member has at least one movement restriction means configured to help maintain the position of the flexible barrier means when clamped by the adjustable clamping arrangement.

23. A barrier according to any one of claims 5 to 22, wherein the frame has a detachable cover means, the cover means being fittable over one or more open face of the frame.

24. A barrier according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the peripheral portion of the flexible barrier means can be double or triple sealed to the corresponding portion of the frame.

25. A door frame having an integrally formed barrier configured for preventing ingress of water through an opening, the barrier comprising a frame having a base frame member and two lateral upright frame members and a flexible barrier means having all or a substantial part of three peripheral portions of the flexible barrier means permanently attached along all or a substantial part of the length of the base frame member and the two lateral upright members so that no relative movement occurs between the permanently attached parts of the peripheral portions of the flexible barrier and the upright lateral frame members when the barrier is deployed between a stowed position and a deployed position.

26. A barrier substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to and/or as shown in the accompanying drawings.