WO2015039163A1

WO2015039163A1 - Portable barrier

Info

Publication number: WO2015039163A1
Application number: PCT/AU2014/000548
Authority: WO
Inventors: Colin Campbell West
Original assignee: Framelock Structures Pty Ltd
Current assignee: Framelock Structures Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2013-09-23
Filing date: 2014-05-23
Publication date: 2015-03-26
Anticipated expiration: 2016-03-23

Abstract

A portable barrier (11) comprises a base portion (13), a barrier portion (15) mounted on the base portion (13) for movement between an erected condition upstanding from the base portion (13) and a collapsed condition. The barrier portion (15) has a first edge portion (52) and the base portion (13) having a second edge portion (73). The first and second edge portions (52), (73) being adapted to cooperate when the barrier portion (15) is in the erected condition to restrain the barrier portion (15) against upward movement with respect to the base portion (13). A lock (35) is provided for releasably locking the barrier portion (15) against movement with respect to the base portion (13) out of the erected condition.

Description

Portable Barrier

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001 ] This invention relates to a portable barrier and also to a plurality of such portable barriers connected together to provide a barrier assembly.

[0002] The barrier assembly has been devised particularly, although not necessarily solely, for crowd control.

BACKGROUND ART

[0003] The following discussion of the background art is intended to facilitate an understanding of the present invention only. The discussion is not an acknowledgement or admission that any of the material referred to is or was part of the common general knowledge as at the priority date of the application.

[0004] It is known to install barriers for crowd control, particularly at sporting and concert events.

[0005] Typically, crowd control barriers comprise a plurality of modular barriers connected together. The modular barriers are of metal construction, comprising a base portion and a barrier portion upstanding from the base. The modular barriers are collapsible and of light-weight construction for storage and transportation in a compact condition, but nevertheless are sturdy when in operation to provide an effective barrier.

[0006] One such barrier is disclosed in the applicant's international patent application WO 2009/052556. This barrier has proved to be particularly successful, owing to its construction which provides a safe and aesthetically pleasing arrangement.

[0007] The barrier disclosed in WO 2009/052556 comprises a base portion and a barrier portion mounted on the base portion for movement between an erected condition upstanding from the base portion and a collapsed condition in which the barrier portion lays down to rest upon the base portion. The barrier portion and the base portion each comprise a peripheral frame. In the erected condition, the barrier portion abuts a stop on the base portion and a locking system is provided for releasable locking the barrier portion in the erected condition. While not disclosed in WO 2009/052556, the locking system comprises one or more locking bolts each adapted to be received in aligned locking holes provided in the barrier portion and the base portion to secure the barrier portion in the erected condition. Specifically, there are two locking bolts for installation on opposite sides of the barrier.

[0008] While the locking system is effective in securing the barrier portion in the erected condition, it does require a specific action in the barrier assembly process to install the locking bolts. Failure to install at least one of the locking bolts (through inadvertence or otherwise) can result in the assembled barrier being unstable, ineffective and a potential hazard should it collapse.

[0009] Further, assembly of a barrier assembly comprising a plurality of barriers may require installation of locking bolts in a large number of barriers, adding considerably to the time and effort required to assemble the barrier assembly.

[0010] It is against this background, and the problems and difficulties associated therewith that the present invention has been developed.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[001 1 ] According to a first broad aspect of the present invention there is provided a portable barrier comprising a base portion, a barrier portion mounted on the base portion for movement between an erected condition upstanding from the base portion and a collapsed condition, the barrier portion having a first edge portion and the base portion having a second edge portion, the first and second edge portions being adapted to cooperate when the barrier portion is in the erected condition to restrain the barrier portion against upward movement with respect to the base portion, and a lock for releasably locking the barrier portion against movement with respect to the base portion out of the erected condition.

[0012] Preferably, in the collapsed condition the barrier portion locates against the base portion to provide a compact arrangement.

[0013] The barrier is in a collapsed condition when the barrier portion is collapsed to locate against the base portion, and the barrier is in an assembled condition when the barrier portion is erected to extend upwardly from the base portion to perform a barrier function. [0014] The cooperation between the first edge portion and the second edge portion, in conjunction with the lock, provides a locking system which is operable to secure the barrier portion in the erected condition as part of the assembly process, without necessitating further action.

[0015] Preferably, the first and second edge portions are configured for mating engagement when the barrier portion is in the erected condition thereby cooperating to restrain the barrier portion against upward movement with respect to the base portion.

[0016] In one preferred embodiment, the first and second edge portions are each of a cross-sectional profile configured for mating engagement. In one arrangement, each of the first and second edge portions may be configured to define a lip and a channel, with the arrangement being that the lip of each edge portion is receivable in the channel of the other edge portion thereby to provide the mating engagement. Preferably, the lip of each edge portion is snugly receivable in the channel of the other edge portion.

[0017] The first edge portion may be defined by a frame member of the barrier portion. The frame member may comprise an extruded metal section.

[0018] The second edge portion may be defined by a frame member of the base portion. The frame member may comprise an extruded metal section.

[0019] In another preferred embodiment, one of the edge portions may comprise a male section receivable in a mating female section of the other edge portion. The male section may comprise a projection mounted on said one edge portion. The projection may be configured as a tongue. The mating female section may comprise a cavity in the other edge portion. The cavity may be configured as a slot to receive the tongue.

[0020] Preferably, the barrier portion is hingedly connected to the base portion for movement between the erected and collapsed conditions.

[0021 ] With this arrangement, the barrier portion can swing with respect to the base portion between the erected and collapsed conditions. In particular, the barrier portion can fold with respect to the base portion from the erected condition into the collapsed condition in which the barrier portion rests upon the base portion to provide a compact arrangement. [0022] Preferably, the barrier portion in swinging into the erected condition moves the first edge portion towards, and into engagement with, the second edge portion.

[0023] Preferably, a strut structure is hingedly connected between the barrier portion and the base portion to provide bracing for the barrier portion when it is in the erected condition. With this arrangement, the strut structure provides a hinged connection, whereby the barrier portion is hingedly connected to the base portion.

[0024] Preferably, the strut structure is so disposed so as to be on a side of the barrier portion away from a crowd to be controlled.

[0025] Preferably, the strut structure comprises two struts.

[0026] Preferably, a cross-member is provided between the two struts when the barrier portion is in the erected condition.

[0027] Preferably, the cross-member is adapted to releasably engage the barrier portion when the latter is in the erected condition. With this arrangement, the cross- member can function as the lock for releasably locking the barrier portion against movement with respect to the base portion out of the erected condition.

[0028] Preferably, the cross-member is pivotally movable into an operative condition in which it is adapted to engage the barrier portion when the latter is in the erected condition to restrain the barrier portion against swinging movement out of the erected condition.

[0029] Preferably, the cross-member is pivotally movable out of the operative condition for disengagement from the barrier portion and into a collapsed condition in which it can rest upon the barrier portion when the latter is in the collapsed condition.

[0030] Preferably, the cross-member is mounted on the struts for pivotal movement between the operative and collapsed conditions.

[0031 ] Preferably, the cross-member is configured as a step.

[0032] In the operative condition, the step may provide a platform for standing or resting, or for placement of objects. With this arrangement, security personnel can stand on the step for better visibility or to increase the stability of the barrier when in operation. [0033] Preferably, the barrier also includes a lock that is associated with the cross- member and that is for locking the cross-member to the barrier portion when the barrier portion is in the erected condition. It is preferred that the lock includes a latch pin that is supported by the cross-member, and a latch hole in the barrier portion for receiving the latch pin such that the cross-member is thereby locked to the barrier portion. It is also preferred that the lock includes a spring for biasing the latch pin towards a locked position. Moreover, it is preferred that the latch pin includes a handle. Preferably, the handle comprises a screw that is screwed into a threaded hole in the latch pin such that the screw projects from the latch pin. It is preferred that the screw is a cap screw. It is preferred that the cross-member includes a slot through which the handle projects.

[0034] Preferably, the base portion comprises a base frame adapted to rest on the ground, with a grating attached to the base frame.

[0035] Anchoring means may be provided for releasably anchoring the base portion to the ground. The anchoring means may comprise an anchoring peg adapted to engage the base portion and be driven into the ground.

[0036] The anchoring means may be configured for operation with two barriers according to the invention positioned in side-by-side relation, whereby the anchoring means performs an anchoring function for both barriers. For this purpose, the anchoring means may comprise two anchoring pegs and a bridge portion interconnecting the two anchoring pegs, whereby the anchoring pegs can be engaged with adjacent base portions of the two barriers positioned in side-by-side relation, with the bridge portion extending between the two barriers.

[0037] If so desired, the locking system can be supplemented by a secondary locking system. The secondary locking system may, for example, comprise a locking system of the type described above in relation to the prior art; that is, one or more locking bolts each adapted to be received in aligned locking holes provided in the barrier portion and the base portion to secure the barrier portion in the erected condition.

[0038] It is expected that such a secondary locking system would not be required in ordinary circumstances; however, the feature may be provided if particular circumstances require its use. [0039] Preferably, the barrier also includes a pin latching system for locking the barrier to an adjacent barrier. It is preferred that the pin latching system includes a latch pin that includes a locking lug and that is supported by the barrier, and a slotted entry hole in the barrier for receiving the locking lug of the adjacent barrier, wherein the barrier is able to be locked to the adjacent barrier by inserting the locking lug of one of the barriers into the slotted entry hole of the other barrier, and then rotating the latch pin that includes the inserted locking lug relative to the slotted entry hole into which the locking lug is inserted so that the inserted locking lug is inhibited from being removed from the slotted entry hole. Preferably, the latch pin extends through a latch pin- receiving hole in the barrier. It is particularly preferred that the latch pin-receiving hole is located in the base portion of the barrier such that the base portion supports the latch pin, and that the slotted entry hole is also located in the base portion. It is preferred that the latch pin is a loose fit in the latch pin-receiving hole. Preferably, the locking lug is provided by a cross-pin that extends through a cross-pin-receiving hole in the latch pin. It is also preferred that the latch pin includes a handle. Preferably, the latch pin is L- shaped so that a leg of the latch pin provides the handle. Additionally, it is preferred that the latch pin is threaded, and that the pin latching system also includes a threaded lock nut that is threaded onto the latch pin and that is operable to tension or tighten the latch pin after the barrier has been locked to the adjacent barrier. Preferably, the base portion includes a recessed formation for receiving the locking lug, and the lock nut is operable to clamp the latch pin into a stable position in which the locking lug is maintained in the recessed formation. It is preferred that the lock nut is knurled.

[0040] According to a second broad aspect of the present invention there is provided a barrier assembly comprising a plurality of barriers according to the first broad aspect of the present invention disposed one adjacent another.

[0041 ] With this arrangement, the barrier assembly can form a continuous barrier fence inhibiting passage from one side of the barrier assembly to the other. One or more access ways may be incorporated in the barrier fence.

[0042] In certain applications, at least some of the adjacent barriers may be connected one to another. Preferably, at least some of the adjacent barriers are connected one to another such that they are locked to each other.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0043] Further features of the present invention are more fully described in the following description of several non-limiting embodiments thereof. This description is included solely for the purposes of exemplifying the present invention. It should not be understood as a restriction on the broad summary, disclosure or description of the invention as set out above. The description will be made with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a first preferred embodiment of a portable barrier according to the present invention, with the barrier shown in an assembled condition;

Figure 2 is a side view of the barrier;

Figure 3 is a view similar to Figure 1 , except that only a portion of the barrier is shown;

Figure 4 is fragmentary cross-sectional view of the barrier that depicts a cross- member resting on an intermediate frame member;

Figure 5 is a further perspective view of the barrier in a partly collapsed condition;

Figure 6 is a fragmentary perspective view of the partly collapsed barrier depicted in figure 5;

Figure 7 is a side view of the collapsed barrier after it has been further collapsed;

Figure 8 is a fragmentary cross-sectional view of the barrier that depicts the cross-member hinged to a strut and resting on the intermediate frame member;

Figure 9 is a perspective view of a frame element defining a first edge portion of a barrier portion of the barrier;

Figure 10 is an end view of the frame element shown in Figure 9;

Figure 1 1 is a view similar to Figure 10, but showing the first edge portion of the barrier portion in mating engagement with a second edge portion of a base portion of the barrier, the latter being shown only partly and in dotted outline; Figure 12 is a perspective view of a frame element defining the second edge portion of the base portion of the barrier;

Figure 13 is an end view of the frame element shown in Figure 12;

Figure 14 is a view similar to Figure 13, but showing the second edge portion of the base portion in mating engagement with the first edge portion of the barrier portion, the latter being shown in dotted outline;

Figure 15 is a fragmentary perspective view of a second preferred embodiment of a portable barrier according to the present invention, with the barrier shown in an assembled condition;

Figure 16 is a rear view of the lower part of the barrier shown in Figure 15;

Figure 17 is a sectional perspective view of the arrangement shown in Figure 16, illustrating in particular the first edge portion of the barrier portion in mating engagement with a second edge portion of a base portion of the barrier;

Figure 18 is a schematic perspective view of the barrier portion of the second preferred embodiment;

Figure 19 is a detail view of part of Figure 18, illustrating in particular the first edge portion of the barrier portion;

Figure 20 is a schematic perspective view of the base portion of the second embodiment;

Figure 21 is a detail view of part of Figure 20, illustrating in particular the second edge portion of a base portion;

Figure 22 depicts an upper portion of the cross-member of a third preferred embodiment of a portable barrier that includes a lock for locking the cross- member to the barrier portion of the barrier;

Figure 23 depicts a lower portion of the cross-member and the lock for locking the cross-member to the barrier portion of the barrier; g

Figure 24 is a perspective view of a latch pin of the lock for locking the cross- member to the barrier portion of the barrier;

Figure 25 is a rear view of the barrier portion of the barrier according to the third preferred embodiment that has an intermediate frame member that includes a latch hole for receiving the latch pin depicted in figure 24;

Figure 26 is a perspective view of a latch pin and other components of a pin latching system of the third preferred embodiment;

Figure 27 is a perspective view depicting the latch pin of the pin latching system installed in a side member of a base portion of the barrier according to the third preferred embodiment when the latch pin is in a retracted position;

Figure 28 is a perspective view depicting the latch pin in an extended position;

Figure 29 depicts the extended latch pin as it is about to be inserted into a slotted latch hole in a base portion side member of an adjacent barrier; and

Figure 30 depicts the two barriers shown in figure 29 secured together by the pin latching system.

[0044] In the drawings like structures are referred to by like numerals throughout the several views. The drawings shown are not necessarily to scale, with emphasis instead generally being placed upon illustrating the principles of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0045] The preferred embodiments shown in the drawings are each directed to a modular barrier 1 1 adapted to cooperate with a plurality of similar such barriers to provide a barrier assembly (not shown).

[0046] The modular barrier 1 1 is of light weight construction and collapsible into a compact condition for portability.

[0047] The first preferred embodiment of the barrier 1 1 according to the present invention is shown in Figures 1 to 13. The barrier 1 1 comprises a base portion 13 and a barrier portion 15. The base portion 13 is adapted to rest on the ground, and the barrier portion 15 is moveable relative to the base portion 13 between a collapsed condition in which it locates against the base portion 13 for compactness and an erected condition in which it extends upwardly from the base portion 13 to perform a barrier function.

[0048] The barrier 1 1 is in a collapsed condition when the barrier portion 15 is collapsed to locate against the base portion 13. Similarly, the barrier 1 1 is in an assembled condition when the barrier portion 15 is erected to extend upwardly from the base portion 13 to perform a barrier function.

[0049] The barrier 1 1 has a front side 16 adapted to be so positioned as to be exposed to an area in which a crowd is to be accommodated and controlled, and a rear side 18 opposite to that area.

[0050] Bracing 17 is provided for supporting the barrier portion 15 in the erected condition. The bracing 17 is located on the rear side 18 of the barrier portion 15. The bracing 17 comprises a strut structure. The strut structure comprises two struts 19 each pivotally connected at one end to the base portion 13 by hinge 21 and also pivotally connected at the other end to one end of the barrier portion 15 by hinge 23 (that end being the end of the barrier portion 15 which is the upper end when the barrier portion 15 is in the erected condition).

[0051 ] A cross-member 25 is supported between the bracing 17 and the barrier portion 15. The cross-member 25 is pivotally connected to the bracing M 7 so as to be collapsible as the barrier 1 1 moves from the assembled condition to the collapsed condition.

[0052] The cross member 25 presents a broad surface 26 which is uppermost when the barrier portion 15 is in the erected condition, thereby providing a support surface which functions as a step on which crowd control personnel can stand or sit as necessary while the crowd control barrier is in use during an event.

[0053] In the arrangement shown, the cross-member 25 is of rectangular configuration comprising two opposed longitudinal sides 27 and two opposed ends 28. The cross-member 25 is pivotally mounted between the two struts 19 by hinges 29 at the opposed ends 28 adjacent longitudinal side 27a. The other longitudinal side 27b is provided with an abutment 30 for engagement with the barrier portion 15 when the latter is in the erected condition, as will be described in more detail later. In the arrangement shown, the abutment 30 is of angular cross-section, presenting an upper abutment face 30a and a side abutment face 30b. When the cross-member 25 is pivoted into an operative condition in which the abutment 30 is in engagement with the barrier portion 15 when the latter is in the erected condition, the cross-member 25 functions as a lock 35, the purpose of which will be explained later.

[0054] The barrier portion 15 comprises a frame structure 31 and a plurality of barrier panels 33 supported within the frame structure 31 . In the arrangement shown, each barrier panel 33 comprises a perforated sheet, typically a perforated aluminium sheet. The panels 33 are not shown in Figure 1 .

[0055] The frame structure 31 comprises an upper frame member 41 which provides a top rail 42, a lower frame member 43, and two side frame members 45.

[0056] Further, the frame structure 31 comprises two intermediate frame members 47, 49, one intermediate frame member 47 being disposed vertically when the barrier portion 15 is in the erected condition and the other intermediate frame member 49 being disposed horizontally when the barrier portion 15 is in the erected condition.

[0057] In the arrangement shown, the horizontal intermediate frame member 49 comprises two sections disposed on opposed sides of the vertical intermediate frame member 47.

[0058] With this arrangement, the frame structure 31 defines a peripheral frame about the barrier panels 33.

[0059] The horizontal frame member 49 presents an upper face 51 and a side face 53. When the cross-member 25 in engagement with the barrier portion 15 when the latter is in the erected condition, the abutment 30 on the cross-member 25 engages the horizontal frame member 49, as best seen in Figure 6. More particularly, the upper abutment face 30a of the abutment 30 rests on the upper face 51 of the horizontal intermediate frame member 49 and the side abutment face 30b of the abutment 30 locates against the side face 53 of the horizontal intermediate frame member 49.

[0060] The various frame members defining the frame structure 31 incorporate recesses 50 into which the adjacent edges of the barrier panels 33 are received and concealed. The various frame elements are configured specifically for this purpose. [0061 ] With this arrangement, the edges of each barrier panel 33 are received and concealed within the recesses 50 in the frame structure 31 . Welding (typically spot welding) is used to secure the panels 33 in the frame structure 31 .

[0062] The top rail 42 comprises an extruded metal section which presents a rounded profile on the upper side thereof for safety and aesthetic purposes.

[0063] The lower fame member 43 constitutes an edge portion 52 of the barrier portion 15, the purpose of which will be explained later. The edge portion 52 will hereinafter be referred to as the first edge portion 52.

[0064] The base portion 13 comprises a peripheral frame structure 60 of generally rectangular configuration, comprising a first end member 61 , a second end member 62, and two side members 63.

[0065] The base portion 13 further comprises an intermediate member 64 extending between the two side members 63. The intermediate frame member 64 is disposed between the two end members 61 , 62 at a location from which the barrier portion 15 extends upwardly when in the erected condition. With this arrangement, the intermediate member 64 represents a transition between the front side 16 and the rear side 18 of the barrier 1 1 .

[0066] The hinges 21 connecting the struts 19 to the base portion 13 are mounted on the second end member 62.

[0067] As the barriers 1 1 are typically intended to be disposed one adjacent another in abutting relationship, each side member 63 provides an abutment face.

[0068] The base portion 13 incorporates a platform 65 located at the front side of the barrier 1 1 (that side being the side that corresponds to the crowd being controlled). In this way, members of the crowd can stand on the platform 65 and in so doing provide further stability to the barrier assembly. The platform 65 defines an upper platform surface 66.

[0069] The platform 65 comprises a grating 67 defined by a plurality of planks 69 extending between the two side members 63 in the section of the base portion between the first end member 61 and the intermediate member 64 . The planks 69 are in spaced apart relationship to define gaps which constitute drainage spaces for shedding water from the platform 65.

[0070] The first end member 61 forms part of the platform 65 and defines a ramp surface at the outermost edge thereof. The ramp surface is inclined to provide a transition between the ground surface and the upper surface 66 of the platform 65 which is slightly elevated above the ground.

[0071 ] The intermediate member 64 constitutes an edge portion 73 of the base portion 13, the purpose of which will be explained later. The edge portion 73 will hereinafter be referred to as the second edge portion 73.

[0072] The first edge portion 52 of the barrier portion 15 and the second edge portion 73 of the base portion 13 are adapted to cooperate when the barrier portion 15 is in the erected condition to restrain the barrier portion 15 against upward movement with respect to the base portion 13.

[0073] The cooperation between the first edge portion 52 of the barrier portion 15 and the second edge portion 73 of the base portion 13, in conjunction with the lock 35, provides a locking system which is operable to secure the barrier portion 15 in the erected condition as part of the assembly process, without necessitating further action.

[0074] More particularly, the first and second edge portions 52, 73 are configured for mating engagement when the barrier portion 15 is in the erected condition thereby cooperating to restrain the barrier portion 15 against upward movement with respect to the base portion 13.

[0075] In this first embodiment, the first and second edge portions 52, 73 are each of a cross-sectional profile configured for mating engagement.

[0076] In the arrangement illustrated, the first and second edge portions 52, 73 are each configured to define a lip 81 and a channel 83, with the arrangement being that the lip 81 of each edge portion is receivable in the channel 83 of the other edge portion thereby to provide the mating engagement. Preferably, the lip 81 of each edge portion is snugly receivable in the channel 83 of the other edge portion.

[0077] Figures 8 and 9 illustrated the cross-sectional profile of the lower fame member 43 which provides the first edge portion 52 of the barrier portion 15, depicting lip 81 a and channel 83a. Figure 10 is a view similar to Figure 9 but showing the first edge portion 52 in mating engagement with the second edge portion 73, with the latter being shown only partly and in broken outline.

[0078] Figures 1 1 and 12 illustrated the cross-sectional profile of the intermediate member 64 which provides the second edge portion 73 of the base portion 13, depicting lip 81 b and channel 83b. Figure 13 is a view similar to Figure 12 but showing the second edge portion 73 in mating engagement with the first edge portion 52, with the latter being shown in broken outline.

[0079] The barrier portion 15 can swing with respect to the base portion 13 between the erected and collapsed conditions. In swinging into the erected condition, the barrier portion 15 moves the first edge portion 52 towards, and into engagement with, the second edge portion 73. This mating engagement is best seen in Figures 10 and 13. Once the barrier portion is in the erected condition, the cross-member 25 is pivoted into an operative condition in which the abutment 30 is in engagement with the barrier portion 15, as best seen in Figure 6, thereby to function as the lock 35. When the cross- member 25 in engagement with the barrier portion 15 when the latter is in the erected condition, the upper abutment face 30a of the abutment 30 rests on the upper face 51 of the horizontal intermediate frame member 49, and the side abutment face 30b of the abutment 30 locates against the side face 53 of the horizontal intermediate frame member 49. Interaction between the side abutment face 30b of the abutment 30 and the side face 53 of the horizontal intermediate frame member 49 restrains the barrier portion 15 against swinging movement which would allow the first edge portion 52 to withdraw from engagement with the second edge portion 73.

[0080] The cooperation between the first edge portion 52 of the barrier portion 15 and the second edge portion 73 of the base portion 13, in conjunction with the lock 35, provides the locking system which is operable to secure the barrier portion 15 in the erected condition as part of the assembly process, without necessitating further action, as previously explained.

[0081 ] When the assembled barrier 1 1 is to be removed, it is merely necessary to lift the cross-member 25 to cause it to pivot away from, and out of engagement with, the barrier portion 15, thereby to release the lock 35. The barrier portion 15 can then swing towards the rear side 18 of the barrier 1 1 and fold with respect to the base portion 13 into the collapsed condition in which the barrier portion 15 rests upon the base portion to provide a compact arrangement.

[0082] Means (not shown) are provided for releasably anchoring the base portion 13 to the ground. The anchoring means may comprise anchoring pegs adapted to engage the base portion 13, the anchoring pegs being adapted to pass through anchoring holes 85 in the peripheral frame structure 60 and be driven into the ground. The anchoring means may be configured for operation with two barriers 1 1 positioned in side-by-side relation, whereby the anchoring means performs an anchoring function for both barriers. For this purpose, the anchoring means may comprise two anchoring pegs and a bridge portion interconnecting the two anchoring pegs, whereby the anchoring pegs can be engaged with adjacent base portions of the two barriers positioned in side- by-side relation, with the bridge portion extending between the two barriers 1 1.

[0083] A connection system 87 may be provided for connecting adjacent barriers 1 1 together in side-by-side abutting relation to form the barrier assembly. In the arrangement shown, the connection system comprises a pin connection system comprising spigots 88 on one side of the barrier 1 1 and corresponding sockets (not shown) on the other side of the barrier 1 1 , the arrangement being that the spigots 88 of one barrier 1 1 engage in the corresponding sockets of an adjacent barrier 1 1 thereby to provide a connection between the two barriers 1 1 . There is some tolerance in the fit between each spigot 88 and socket to accommodate some unevenness in the ground surface on which the barriers 1 1 are assembled together.

[0084] The various metal sections used in construction of the barrier 1 1 are of aluminium in this embodiment, but they of course can be of any other appropriate material (metal or otherwise).

[0085] The barrier 11 according to this embodiment is constructed of components that can be readily assembly together, typically by welding. The various frame members typically comprise extruded metal sections configured for the purpose, thereby providing a construction that is aesthetically pleasing. In particular, the frame members 43, 64 comprise extruded metal sections.

[0086] Referring now to Figures 14 to 20, there is shown a second preferred embodiment of the barrier 1 1 according to the present invention. The second preferred embodiment is similar in some respects to the first preferred embodiment and corresponding reference numerals are used to identify corresponding parts.

[0087] In this second preferred embodiment, one of the edge portions 52, 73 is provided with a male section 91 and the other edge portion is provided with a mating female section 93, with the male section 91 being receivable in the female section 93 to restrain the barrier portion 15 against upward movement with respect to the base portion 13.

[0088] In this embodiment, the male section 91 comprises one or more projections 95 mounted on the first edge portion 52 and the female section 93 comprises one or more counterpart cavities 97 provided on the second edge portion 73. In the arrangement shown, each projection 95 is configured as a tongue and the corresponding cavity 97 is configured as a slot formed in the second edge portion 73 to receive the tongue. The projections 95 comprise angular elements 99, having one web 99a welded or otherwise secured to the lower frame member 43 which provides the first edge portion 52 of the barrier portion 15, and the other web 99b protruding to provide the projection 95.

[0089] The barrier portion 15 can swing with respect to the base portion 13 between the erected and collapsed conditions. In swinging into the erected condition, the barrier portion 15 moves the first edge portion 52 towards the second edge portion 73, with the projection 95 aligning with, and entering, the respective cavities 97. Once the barrier portion 15 is in the erected condition, the cross-member 25 is pivoted into the operative condition in which the abutment 30 is in engagement with the barrier portion 15, thereby to function as the lock 35, as was the case with the first preferred embodiment.

[0090] The barrier 1 1 according to the second preferred embodiment does not require the lower fame member 43 and the intermediate member 64 to be extruded or otherwise formed into profiles which are configured for mating engagement. Rather, it merely requires the lower fame member 43 which provides the first edge portion 52, and the intermediate member 64 which provides the second edge portion 73, to be fabricated in a manner which facilities the necessary mating engagement.

[0091 ] In this way, the second preferred embodiment of the barrier 1 1 according to the present invention is advantageous in that it can be constructed using components which might otherwise be used for an existing barrier arrangement, such as that disclosed in WG 2009/052556 or some other similar barrier arrangement involving a locking system comprising one or more locking bolts each adapted to be received in aligned locking holes provided the barrier portion and the base portion to secure the barrier portion in the erected condition. Such existing barrier arrangements can be modified as necessary to incorporate the projections 95 and the cavities 97.

[0092] This would allow a production system set up to produce barriers of the type disclosed in WO 2009/052556, or some other existing barrier arrangement requiring locking bolts, to be modified to produce barriers according to the present invention.

[0093] In circumstances where a barrier 1 1 according to the present invention is constructed using components which might otherwise be used for an existing barrier arrangement, such as that disclosed in WO 2009/052556, it may be that the barrier so constructed retains the original locking system; that is, a locking system comprising one or more locking bolts each adapted to be received in aligned locking holes provided in the barrier portion and the base portion to secure the barrier portion in the erected condition. In such circumstances, the retained locking system may be used as a secondary locking system to supplement the locking system described above involving cooperation between the first edge portion 52 of the barrier portion 15 and the second edge portion 73 of the base portion 13, in conjunction with the lock 35.

[0094] Indeed, in the arrangement illustrated in Figures 14 to 20, the components used as the lower fame member 43 and the intermediate member 64 are corresponding components used in construction of the barrier disclosed in WO 2009/052556, with modification to the lower frame member 43 to incorporate the angular elements 99 which provide the projections 95 and also modification to the intermediate member 64 to incorporate slots which provide the cavities 97. With this arrangement, the components used in the construction of the barrier illustrated in Figures 14 to 20 would also have the locking holes used in the original locking system.

[0095] It is expected that such a secondary locking system would not be required in ordinary circumstances; however, the feature may be useful if circumstances require its use.

[0096] If so desired, such a secondary locking system could be implemented on the barrier according to the first preferred embodiment. [0097] Referring to Figures 22-25, a third preferred embodiment of the barrier 1 1 according to the present invention has all of the features of the first or the second preferred embodiments. In addition, the barrier 1 1 includes a lock 1 10 that is associated with the cross-member 25 and that is for locking the cross-member 25 to the barrier portion 15 when the barrier portion 15 is in the erected condition. The lock 1 10 includes a latch pin 11 1 that that is supported by the cross-member 25. In particular, the latch pin 1 1 1 slidably extends through a hole 1 12 in a rib 1 13 on the underside of the cross-member 25, and a hole 114 that extends through the side abutment face 30b of the abutment 30 such that the latch pin 1 1 1 projects outwardly from the side abutment face 30b as shown in Figures 22 and 23. Latch pin 1 1 1 also includes a handle 1 15 that is provided by a cap screw 1 16 that is screwed into a threaded hole 1 17 in the latch pin 1 1 1 such that the screw 1 16 projects perpendicularly from the latch pin 1 1 1. The screw 1 16 also projects through a slot 1 18 in the broad surface 26 of the cross-member 25 near the abutment 30 so that a user can grasp the handle 1 15 and move the latch pin 1 11 from an extended or locked position to a retracted or unlocked position in which the latch pin 1 1 1 is retracted into the cross-member 25. A compressive coil spring 1 19 of the latch 1 10 biases the latch pin 1 11 towards the locked position.

[0098] Also, the intermediate frame member 47 of the barrier portion 15 includes a latch hole 120 of the lock 1 10. The latch hole 120 receives the latch pin 1 1 1 when the cross-member 25 is pivoted into the operative condition in which the abutment 30 is in engagement with the barrier portion 15 when the latter is in the erected condition. Receipt of the latch pin 1 1 1 in the latch hole 120 inhibits the cross-member 25 from being pivoted out of the operative condition so that the cross-member 25 is thereby locked to the barrier portion 15. A rounded head 121 of the latch pin 1 1 1 assists in the insertion of the pin 1 1 1 into the hole 120.

[0099] To pivot the cross-member 25 out of the operative condition, the latch pin 1 1 1 must first be disengaged from the latch hole 120. This is done by grasping the handle 1 15 of the latch pin 1 1 1 and then forcing the latch pin 11 1 against the bias of the spring 1 19 so that the latch pin 1 1 1 is retracted into the cross-member 25 and removed from the latch hole 120. Once the latch pin 1 1 1 has been disengaged or removed from the latch hole 120, the cross-member 25 can then be freely pivoted out of the operative condition. [00100] Another difference between the third preferred embodiment of the barrier 1 1 and the succeeding preferred embodiments of the barrier 11 is that it also includes a pin latching system 130 for locking the barrier 1 1 to an adjacent barrier of the same type. With reference to Figure 26, the pin latching system 130 includes a latch pin 131 that has a pair of locking lugs 132 that extend perpendicularly from the latch pin 131 and that are located adjacent one end of the latch pin 131 . The latch pin 131 also has a handle 133 that is located at an opposite end of the latch pin 131 to the lugs 132. The latch pin 131 is L-shaped so that a leg 134 of the latch pin 131 provides the handle 133. The locking lugs 132 are provided by a rolled cross-pin 135 that extends through a cross-pin-receiving hole 136 in the latch pin 131 . A shank 137 of the latch pin 131 includes a threaded portion 138 near the handle 133, and a threaded lock nut 139 is threaded onto the shank 137. The lock nut 139 includes a knurled portion 140 to allow the lock nut 139 to be operated (i.e. rotated/turned) manually by an installer using their fingers.

[00101 ] As can be seen in Figures 27 and 28, the latch pin 131 extends through a latch pin-receiving hole 141 in one of the side members 63 of the base portion 13 such that the base portion 13 of the barrier 1 1 thereby supports the latch pin 131 . The latch pin 131 is a loose fit with the latch pin-receiving hole 141 and is able to slide back and forth along the hole 141.

[00102] Referring to Figure 29, the pin latching system 130 also includes a slotted entry hole 142 that is located in the other one of the side members 63 of the base portion 13 such that the hole 142 is located opposite the latch pin 131. Figure 29 depicts part of the base portions 13 of two identical barriers 1 1 a and 1 1 b. The barriers 1 1 a and 1 1 b have been arranged side by side so that the latch pin 131 of the barrier 1 1 a is aligned with the slotted entry hole 142 of the barrier 1 1 b. The barriers 1 1 a, 1 1 b are able to be secured or locked together by inserting the latch pin 131 of the barrier 1 1 a into the slotted entry hole 142 of the barrier 1 1 b. Before this can be done, it is necessary to ensure that the locking lugs 132 of the latch pin 131 are properly aligned with the hole 142 so that the lugs 132 can be inserted into the hole 142 as well. Once the latch pin 131 of the barrier 1 1 a and its locking lugs 132 have been inserted into the hole 142, the pinning action is engaged by rotating the inserted latch pin 131 relative to the hole 142 through 90 degrees so that the received locking lugs 132 inhibit removal of the inserted latch pin 131 from the hole 142. [00103] The loose fit of the latch pin 131 in the hole 141 allows some misalignment between the two barriers 1 1 a, 1 1 b which are to be connected together by the pin latching system 130, such as for example when the two barriers 1 1 a, 1 1 b are positioned on uneven ground and the latch pin 131 of the barrier 1 1 a and the corresponding hole 142 on the barrier 1 1 b which is intended to receive the latch pin 131 and its locking lugs 132 are not perfectly aligned.

[00104] The threaded lock nut 139 allows the latch pin 131 of the barrier 1 1 a to be tightened or tensioned once engaged in the hole 142 of the other barrier 1 1 b as shown in Figure 30 so as to thereby retain the latch pin 131 in an engaged position so that the barriers 1 1 a, 1 1 b are clamped together.

[00105] The threaded lock nut 130 also allows the latch pin 131 to be clamped into a stable position when the barrier 1 1 is in a collapsed or stored condition. For this purpose, the side member 63 which supports the latch pin 131 has a recessed formation 143 (see Figures 27 and 28) which receives the locking lugs 132 when the barrier 1 1 is stored. The locking nut 139 can be tightened when the locking lugs 132 are received in the recess formation 143 so as to stabilise the latch pin 131 for transport. This ensures that the latch pin 131 does not flop around, remembering that it is a loose fit in the hole 141 in the side member 63 to accommodate some misalignment as mentioned above.

[00106] It should be appreciated that the scope of the invention is not limited to the scope of the preferred embodiments described.

[00107] While the present invention has been described in terms of preferred embodiments in order to facilitate better understanding of the invention, it should be appreciated that various modifications can be made without departing from the principles of the invention. Therefore, the invention should be understood to include all such modifications within its scope.

[00108] Reference to positional descriptions, such as "upper", "lower", "top" and "bottom", are to be taken in context of the embodiments depicted in the drawings, and are not to be taken as limiting the invention to the literal interpretation of the term but rather as would be understood by the skilled addressee. [00109] Additionally, where the terms "system", "device" and "apparatus" are used in the context of the invention, they are to be understood as including reference to any group of functionally related or interacting, interrelated, interdependent or associated components or elements that may be located in proximity to, separate from, integrated with, or discrete from, each other.

[001 10] Throughout this specification, unless the context requires otherwise, the word "comprise" or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A portable barrier comprising a base portion, a barrier portion mounted on the base portion for movement between an erected condition upstanding from the base portion and a collapsed condition, the barrier portion having a first edge portion and the base portion having a second edge portion, the first and second edge portions being adapted to cooperate when the barrier portion is in the erected condition to restrain the barrier portion against upward movement with respect to the base portion, and a lock for releasably locking the barrier portion against movement with respect to the base portion out of the erected condition.

2. The portable barrier defined by claim 1 , wherein in the collapsed condition the barrier portion locates against the base portion to provide a compact arrangement.

3. The portable barrier defined by any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cooperation between the first edge portion and the second edge portion, in conjunction with the lock, provides a locking system which is operable to secure the barrier portion in the erected condition as part of an assembly process, without necessitating further action.

4. The portable barrier defined by any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first and second edge portions are configured for mating engagement when the barrier portion is in the erected condition thereby cooperating to restrain the barrier portion against upward movement with respect to the base portion.

5. The portable barrier defined by claim 4, wherein the first and second edge portions are each of a cross-sectional profile configured for mating engagement.

6. The portable barrier defined by claim 5, wherein each of the first and second edge portions are configured to define a lip and a channel, with the arrangement being that the lip of each edge portion is receivable in the channel of the other edge portion thereby to provide the mating engagement.

7. The portable barrier defined by claim 6, wherein the lip of each edge portion is snugly receivable in the channel of the other edge portion.

8. The portable barrier defined by any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the first edge portion is defined by a frame member of the barrier portion.

9. The portable barrier defined by claim 8, wherein the frame member comprises an extruded metal section.

10. The portable barrier defined by any one of claims 5 to 9, wherein the second edge portion is defined by a frame member of the base portion.

1 1 . The portable barrier defined by claim 10, wherein the frame member comprises an extruded metal section.

12. The portable barrier defined by any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein one of the edge portions comprises a male section receivable in a mating female section of the other edge portion.

13. The portable barrier defined by claim 12, wherein the male section comprises a projection mounted on said one edge portion.

14. The portable barrier defined by claim 13, wherein the projection is configured as a tongue.

15. The portable barrier defined by any one of claims 1 1 to 14, wherein the mating female section comprises a cavity in the other edge portion.

16. The portable barrier defined by claim 15, wherein the cavity is configured as a slot to receive the tongue.

17. The portable barrier defined by any one of the preceding claims, wherein the barrier portion is hingedly connected to the base portion for movement between the erected and collapsed conditions.

18. The portable barrier defined by claim 17, wherein the barrier portion can swing with respect to the base portion between the erected and collapsed conditions.

19. The portable barrier defined by claim 18, wherein the barrier portion can fold with respect to the base portion from the erected condition into the collapsed condition in which the barrier portion rests upon the base portion to provide a compact arrangement.

20. The portable barrier defined by any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein the barrier portion in swinging into the erected condition moves the first edge portion towards, and into engagement with, the second edge portion.

21 . The portable barrier defined by any one of the preceding claims, wherein a strut structure is hingedly connected between the barrier portion and the base portion to provide bracing for the barrier portion when it is in the erected condition.

22. The portable barrier defined by claim 21 , wherein the strut structure provides a hinged connection, whereby the barrier portion is hingedly connected to the base portion.

23. The portable barrier defined by any one of claims 20 to 22, wherein the strut structure is so disposed so as to be on a side of the barrier portion away from a crowd to be controlled.

24. The portable barrier defined by any one of claims 20 to 23, wherein the strut structure comprises two struts.

25. The portable barrier defined by claim 24, wherein a cross-member is provided between the two struts when the barrier portion is in the erected condition.

26. The portable barrier defined by claim 25, wherein the cross-member is adapted to releasably engage the barrier portion when the latter is in the erected condition.

27. The portable barrier defined by claim 26, wherein the cross-member can function as the lock for releasably locking the barrier portion against movement with respect to the base portion out of the erected condition.

28. The portable barrier defined by any one of claims 25 to 27, wherein the cross- member is pivotally movable into an operative condition in which it is adapted to engage the barrier portion when the latter is in the erected condition to restrain the barrier portion against swinging movement out of the erected condition.

29. The portable barrier defined by claim 28, wherein the cross-member is pivotally movable out of the operative condition for disengagement from the barrier portion and into a collapsed condition in which it can rest upon the barrier portion when the latter is in the collapsed condition.

30. The portable barrier defined by claim 29, wherein the cross-member is mounted on the struts for pivotal movement between the operative and collapsed conditions.

31 . The portable barrier defined by any one of claims 25 to 30, wherein the cross- member is configured as a step.

32. The portable barrier defined by claim 31 , wherein in the operative condition, the step provides a platform for standing or resting, or for placement of objects.

33. The portable barrier defined by any one of claims 25 to 32, wherein the barrier also includes a lock that is associated with the cross-member and that is for locking the cross-member to the barrier portion when the barrier portion is in the erected condition.

34. The portable barrier defined by claim 33, wherein the lock includes a latch pin that is supported by the cross-member, and a latch hole in the barrier portion for receiving the latch pin such that the cross-member is thereby locked to the barrier portion.

35. The portable barrier defined by claim 34, wherein the lock also includes a spring for biasing the latch pin towards a locked position.

36. The portable barrier defined by any one of claims 34 to 35, wherein the latch pin includes a handle.

37. The portable barrier defined by claim 36, wherein the handle comprises a screw that is screwed into a threaded hole in the latch pin such that the screw projects from the latch pin.

38. The portable barrier defined by claim 37, wherein the screw is a cap screw.

39. The portable barrier defined by any one of claims 36 to 38, wherein the cross- member includes a slot through which the handle projects.

40. The portable barrier defined by any one of the preceding claims, wherein the base portion comprises a base frame adapted to rest on the ground, with a grating attached to the base frame.

41 . The portable barrier defined by any one of the preceding claims, wherein anchoring means is provided for releasably anchoring the base portion to the ground.

42. The portable barrier defined by claim 41 , wherein the anchoring means comprises an anchoring peg adapted to engage the base portion and be driven into the ground.

43. The portable barrier defined by any one of claims 41 to 42, wherein the anchoring means is configured for operation with two of the portable barriers positioned in side-by-side relation, whereby the anchoring means performs an anchoring function for both barriers.

44. The portable barrier defined by claim 43, wherein the anchoring means comprises two anchoring pegs and a bridge portion interconnecting the two anchoring pegs, whereby the anchoring pegs can be engaged with adjacent base portions of the two barriers positioned in side-by-side relation, with the bridge portion extending between the two barriers.

45. The portable barrier defined by any one of the preceding claims, wherein the locking system is supplemented by a secondary locking system.

46. The portable barrier defined by claim 45, wherein the secondary locking system comprises one or more locking bolts each adapted to be received in aligned locking holes provided in the barrier portion and the base portion to secure the barrier portion in the erected condition.

47. The portable barrier defined by any one of the preceding claims, wherein the barrier also comprises a pin latching system for locking the barrier to an adjacent barrier.

48. The portable barrier defined by claim 47, wherein the pin latching system includes a latch pin that includes a locking lug and that is supported by the barrier, and a slotted entry hole in the barrier for receiving the locking lug of the adjacent barrier, wherein the barrier is able to be locked to the adjacent barrier by inserting the locking lug of one of the barriers into the slotted entry hole of the other barrier, and then rotating the latch pin that includes the inserted locking nut relative to the slotted entry hole into which the locking lug is inserted so that the inserted locking lug is inhibited from being removed from the slotted entry hole.

49. The portable barrier defined by claim 48, wherein the latch pin extends through a latch pin-receiving hole in the barrier.

50. The portable barrier defined by claim 49, wherein the latch pin-receiving hole is located in the base portion of the barrier such that the base portion supports the latch pin, and the slotted entry hole is also located in the base portion.

51 . The portable barrier defined by any one of claims 49 to 50, wherein the latch pin is a loose fit in the latch pin-receiving hole.

52. The portable barrier defined by any one of claims 48 to 51 , wherein the locking lug is provided by a cross-pin that extends through a cross-pin-receiving hole in the latch pin.

53. The portable barrier defined by any one of claims 48 to 52, wherein the latch pin includes a handle.

54. The portable barrier defined by claim 53, wherein the latch pin is L-shaped so that a leg of the latch pin provides the handle.

55. The portable barrier defined by any one of claims 48 to 54, wherein the latch pin is threaded, and the pin latching system also comprises a threaded lock nut that is threaded onto the latch pin and that is operable to tension or tighten the latch pin after the barrier has been locked to the adjacent barrier.

56. The portable barrier defined by claim 55, wherein the base portion includes a recessed formation for receiving the lock nut, and the lock nut is operable to clamp the latch pin into a stable position in which the locking lug is maintained in the recessed formation.

57. The portable barrier defined by any one of claims 55 to 56, wherein the lock nut is knurled.

58. A barrier assembly comprising a plurality of barriers according to any one of claims 1 to 57 disposed one adjacent another.

59. The barrier assembly defined by claim 58, wherein the barrier assembly forms a continuous barrier fence inhibiting passage from one side of the barrier assembly to the other.

60. The barrier assembly defined by claim 59, wherein one or more access ways are incorporated in the barrier fence.

61 . The barrier assembly defined by any one of claims 58 to 60, wherein at least some of the adjacent barriers are connected one to another.

62. The barrier assembly defined by claim 61 , wherein at least some of the adjacent barriers are connected one to another such that they are locked to each other.

63. A portable barrier substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the drawings.

64. A barrier assembly substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the drawings.