A shock-resistant device

Abstract

A shock-resistant device (100; 100') comprises a main body (1; 1') which has an elongate form, is internally hollow and delimited by an external surface (S; S') and extends along a longitudinal axis (X; X'). The shock-resistant device further comprises a base portion (2) which is intended to be anchored to the ground in order to fix the shock-resistant device (100; 100') to the ground. The base portion (2; 2') has a cross-section (D2; D'2) which is greater than the cross-section (D1; D'2) of the main body (1; 1') in order to increase the stability on the ground of the shock-resistant device (100; 100'). The main body (1; 1') and the base portion (2; 2') are made from plastics material having a flexural modulus of elasticity between approximately 0.4 and approximately 1.5 GPa. The main body (1; 1') and the base portion (2; 2') are made in a single piece in order to increase the resistance to impacts of the shock-resistant device.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to shock-resistant devices to be used in particular for industrial premises.

[0002] In industrial workplaces, which are characterized by a continuous and conspicuous transit of goods, operators, machinery dedicated to the transport and packaging thereof, it is possible to encounter a number of impacts and accidental collisions. In particular, there may occur both impacts between different movement devices and impacts between the movement devices and the walls of the premises, in which the movement occurs. Such impacts and collisions, on the basis of the violence of the impacts, may cause more or less serious damage to the movement devices themselves and / or the surfaces of the premises involved and, consequently, may involve a relatively considerable cost for the business. Sometimes, the impacts may also involve the operators with more or less serious consequences.

[0003] In order to overcome or limit these disadvantages, there is provision for using shock-resistant devices which are positioned near the zones which are most exposed to any impacts, or in order to delimit some working zones or storage devices.

[0004] Such shock-resistant devices comprise a cylindrical body which is internally hollow and made from a polymer material which withstands the impacts and is intended to attenuate the impacts and a metal base having a base portion which is secured to the ground and a reinforcement element which is intended to be received in the cylindrical body so as to removably connect the metal base to the cylindrical body. Such shock-resistant devices further comprise a closure element which is intended to close the cylindrical body at the opposite side with respect to the metal base. The metal base is fixed to the ground by means of screws or other fixing elements in order to secure the shock-resistant device to the ground.

[0005] In order to mount the known shock-resistant devices, there is provision for providing the metal base, inserting the cylindrical body in the reinforcement element in order to connect the cylindrical body to the metal base, closing the free end of the cylindrical body with the closure element and finally anchoring the metal base to the ground.

[0006] The Applicant has observed that the shock-resistant devices constructed according to the prior art have a number of disadvantages.

[0007] In particular, the Applicant has observed that the shock-resistant devices constructed according to the prior art are sometimes not very reliable or stable; in fact, particularly in the case of more violent collisions, they can become disengaged from the ground or even become fractured too.

[0008] In some cases, therefore, the known shock-resistant devices are not capable of correctly stopping the impact with damage to the devices and / or premises involved and / or the operators present in the surrounding areas.

[0009] Therefore, maintenance or replacement operations for the known shock-resistant devices are often required.

[0010] The Applicant has further noted that the shock-resistant devices constructed according to the prior art are rigid and therefore, during the impacts, do not have sufficient resilient deformation. This involves the known shock-resistant devices not correctly absorbing the impacts or providing a response to the impact which is very violent and sometimes with a resultant inadequate deceleration of the vehicles and / or machines involved in the impacts.

[0011] This defect is particularly evident when the impact or the collision involves the lower portion of the known shock-resistant devices, that is to say the metal plate. In this case, in fact, the energy of the impact is discharged to the metal plate and therefore the shock-resistant device behaves like a shock-resistant device which is completely made from metal.

[0012] The Applicant has further noted that there are available a number of shock-resistant devices which conversely have a very high resilience and which flex by becoming resiliently deformed in the presence of impacts even of a modest magnitude. These devices, if subjected to a high-energy impact, caused, for example, by the impact with a vehicle, become deflected and bend without actually absorbing the impact or decelerating the vehicle itself in an evident manner. Such devices at the end of the interaction with the vehicle or generally at the end of the impact return to the original form. Such devices, although they are not damaged permanently following the impact, do not allow a vehicle to be braked efficiently or an impact to be absorbed. Therefore, such devices do not ensure the safety for the operators who are working in the surroundings of such devices. In fact, such devices have merely the function of visually signalling the impact which occurred between the vehicle and the device itself.

[0013] Therefore, the Applicant has perceived that, on the one hand, it is important for the shock-resistant devices to have a high level of resilient deformability in order to ensure low decelerations, which are not abrupt, of the vehicles / machines involved in the impact in order to ensure the safety of the operators of the vehicles and, at the same time, for the shock-resistant devices to be resistant and reliably anchored to the ground. The Applicant has perceived the need for the shock-resistant devices to have a high level of plastic deformability.

[0014] The Applicant has further found that it is necessary for the shock-resistant devices to apply a specific resistance to the impacts so as to brake the bodies by which they are struck and to prevent damage or danger to the operators who are working near the devices themselves.

[0015] In light of these considerations, the Applicant has perceived the need for providing a shock-resistant device which could, at least partially, overcome the disadvantages set out in relation to the prior art.

[0016] Particularly, the Applicant has perceived the need to provide a shock-resistant device which allows the impacts to be absorbed effectively and which is stable and durable over time.

[0017] The Applicant has established that, by constructing a shock-resistant device as defined in claim 1, it will be possible to overcome at least some of the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0018] According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a shock-resistant device comprising a main body which has an elongate form, is internally hollow and delimited by an external surface. The main body extends along a longitudinal axis between a first longitudinal end and a second opposite longitudinal end.

[0019] Preferably, the shock-resistant device further comprises a base portion which extends from the second longitudinal end and which is intended to be anchored to the ground in order to fix the shock-resistant device to the ground.

[0020] It is preferable for the base portion to have a cross-section which is greater than the cross-section of the main body. This allows an increase in the stability on the ground of the shock-resistant device.

[0021] It is preferable for the base portion to be made in a single piece with the main body.

[0022] Preferably, the main body and the base portion, being made in a single piece, are constituted by a shock-resistant plastics material having a flexural modulus of elasticity or bending modulus between approximately 0.4 and approximately 1.5 GPa. These data are obtained with measurements carried out with a standard procedure, such as the procedures ASTM D790 or ISO 178. The uncertainty relating to such data obtained by means of these procedures does not exceed 1% of the effective value.

[0023] Owing to the invention, it is possible to construct a shock-resistant device which is reliable and resistant. In particular, the construction of the shock-resistant device as a single piece makes the system more reliable and more stable with respect to devices constructed according to the prior art. In fact, in the event of collisions, different portions of the shock-resistant device are prevented from becoming detached from each other.

[0024] Furthermore, with the known devices in the event of violent impacts there is an impact between the metal plate and the hollow body with a resultant fracture of the hollow body itself. Conversely, the configuration of the shock-resistant device of the invention avoids this defect and therefore allows the integrity of the main body to be maintained. With the formation of the shock-resistant device of the invention, the formation of a critical point between the metal component and the plastics material component is avoided and consequently the fracture of the hollow member is avoided following violent impacts. Vice versa, the stability of the shock-resistant device is increased following the impacts.

[0025] The geometry without any interruption in continuity, eliminating critical points and variations in rigidity as a result of different materials or the superimposition of two materials, allows a resilient / plastic deformation which is approximately 10 times greater than a product with a base made of iron. This deformation is directly proportional to the absorption of energy, as a result of which the vehicle is stopped, and inversely proportional to the deceleration so as to minimize the counter-impact for the user while driving the vehicle and the force transmitted to the vehicle and the flooring.

[0026] As a result of the features of the invention, the shock-resistant device when it is struck by impacts of a specific intensity has a mainly resilient behaviour, absorbing the impacts and becoming reversibly deformed, and when it is struck by impacts with a greater intensity, it has a plastic behaviour in order to absorb the impacts by becoming deformed but irreversibly.

[0027] The fracture of the main body would involve the necessary replacement of the shock-resistant device and / or the risk that the intended premises is not correctly protected. With the shock-resistant device of the invention, however, it is possible to reduce the frequency of replacement of the shock-resistant devices while at the same time maintaining adequate protection.

[0028] Furthermore, with the shock-resistant device of the invention it is possible to modulate and optimize the capacity for absorption of the impacts and at the same time the mechanical resistance of the shock-resistant device.

[0029] Furthermore, using plastics material according to the invention allows an increase in the tendency to resilient / plastic deformation, reducing the possibility of powerful counter-impacts in the event of impacts which are also violent. This allows a limitation on the damage resulting from the impacts both on the walls but also on the vehicles and the operators thereof.

[0030] The construction of a shock-resistant device in a single piece and using a single material for constructing it allows an increase in the capacity for absorbing the impacts of the shock-resistant device of the invention and the homogeneity of reaction to impacts. Furthermore, the potential occurrence of breaking points as a result, for example, of different materials having different behaviours in response to the impacts is minimized.

[0031] Therefore, there is obtained a shock-resistant device having a high resistance to impacts and which allows the impacts to be damped effectively.

[0032] Using a plastics material allows the construction of a shock-resistant device which is particularly suitable for being used in aggressive environments, such as, for example, humid or salty environments, such as fishmongers or the like, without any risk of damage or corrosion.

[0033] With the known shock-resistant devices, in order to construct shock-resistant devices which are suitable for being used in the above-mentioned environments it will in fact be necessary to construct the base portion from a metal which is resistant to corrosion, with a resultant increase in the relevant costs.

[0034] The present invention, in one or more of the above-described aspects, may further have at least one of the preferred features described below.

[0035] Preferably, the shock-resistant device is made from thermoplastic material.

[0036] Preferably, the thermoplastic material is selected from the group comprising polyolefins, in particular polyethylene or polypropylene, or polyvinyls, in particular PVC.

[0037] Preferably, these materials are selected on the basis of their properties of controlled plastic deformation. In particular, the polyolefin plastics materials have a good capacity for absorbing energy without being subjected to fractures, but can at the same time become deformed under a significant load without breaking.

[0038] Such materials are easy to process and recycle, economical and have mechanical properties which are suitable for absorbing impacts.

[0039] Therefore, it is possible to construct a shock-resistant device which provides a good compromise between resistance and resilient deformability and plastic deformability. This allows the energy of the impacts to be absorbed by means of resilient deformation and plastic deformation, effectively dissipating the energy of the impacts. In the event of impacts with limited energy, the device of the invention becomes resiliently and plastically deformed in a limited manner without this compromising the re-use of the device itself.

[0040] Preferably, the shock-resistant device of the invention is made from a material having elongation at break between 100 and 600% when measured in accordance with the standard UNI EN ISO 527-2. Preferably, the shock-resistant device of the invention has a traction resistance between 10 and 30 MPa when measured in accordance with the standard UNI EN ISO 527-2.

[0041] Preferably, the shock-resistant device of the invention is made from a material having a modulus of elasticity between 100 and 600 MPa when measured in accordance with the standard UNI EN ISO 527-2.

[0042] Preferably, the shock-resistant device of the invention is made from a material having a yield strength between 10 and 20 MPa when measured in accordance with the standard UNI EN ISO 527-2.

[0043] Preferably, the main body has a smooth external surface, which is therefore easy to clean.

[0044] In some advantageous versions, the main body is provided with channels which extend along a longitudinal axis of the shock-resistant device and which are intended to adjust the plastic deformation and rigidity of the shock-resistant device itself. Such channels are preferably uniformly arranged on the external surface of the main body so as to promote a uniform plastic deformation of the device following the impact. By suitably sizing and positioning the channels, in fact, it is possible to adjust the plastic deformation and rigidity.

[0045] In a preferred version, the base portion is internally hollow.

[0046] Preferably, the base portion and the main body are configured so that there is defined a single cavity which extends between the base portion and the main body. The provision of a main body and a base portion which are both hollow allows the deformation of the shock-resistant device and the absorption of the impacts thereby to be facilitated.

[0047] Preferably, the shock-resistant device is in the form of a single piece having a thickness greater than 10 mm, preferably between 12 mm and 30 mmm.

[0048] Preferably, the material, thickness, form and dimensions of the device of the invention are selected so as to ensure a moment of inertia of the surface (second moment of area) greater than 10 7< mm 4< .

[0049] The second moment of area is a measurement of the capacity of a structure to withstand bending / deformation; the greater is the value of the second moment of area, the more rigid will be the structure. These values are calculated according to the standards defined by UNECE R58.

[0050] The value of the second moment of area depends on the dimensions and the form of the body as well as the material from which the shock-resistant device is made.

[0051] The shock-resistant device has a hollow body with a desired thickness, the value of the thickness influences the second moment of area.

[0052] Therefore, by varying the thickness of the shock-resistant device, the form of the shock-resistant device and the material from which it is formed, it is possible to obtain a shock-resistant device having a desired second moment of area.

[0053] Preferably, the shock-resistant device is constructed with colours and / or with finishes with a high level of visibility so as to allow the various operators to instantly identify the position of the shock-resistant devices and therefore of the vulnerable areas, limiting the risk of collisions. Preferably, the base portion has a cross-section with a diameter between approximately 250 mm and approximately 450 mm.

[0054] Preferably, the main body has a cross-section with a diameter between approximately 100 mm and approximately 250 mm.

[0055] Preferably, the main body has a height between approximately 400 mm and approximately 1250 mm.

[0056] Preferably, the shock-resistant device further comprises a body portion having a connection portion which extends between the base portion and the body portion and which is also made in one piece with the base portion and the main body. A shock-resistant device having a single piece is thereby defined.

[0057] In this manner, the base portion, the connection portion and the body portion follow each other along the longitudinal axis of the main body.

[0058] In fact, the Applicant has observed that the geometries of the shock-resistant device can also influence the mechanical behaviour following the impact of the shock-resistant device. Therefore, the Applicant has verified that the presence of the connection portion increases the robustness and the tendency towards resilient deformation of the shock-resistant device.

[0059] In some preferred versions, the connection portion is in the form of a truncated cone having a smaller base with a cross-section when viewed from above corresponding to that of the main body. In some versions, the connection portion has a greater base having a dimension when viewed from above less than the dimensions of the base portion so that there is defined on the base portion a zone without any connection portion.

[0060] This zone void of any connection portion is preferably in the form of a circular ring. Preferably, this connection portion is sloping from the base portion towards the main body. The cross-section of the connection portion decreases from the base portion towards the main body. This allows an increase in the resistance to impacts without excessively making the structure of the shock-resistant device heavier. This further allows the flexibility near the base portion to be maintained, avoiding undesirable fractures of the shock-resistant device.

[0061] This particular formation allows promotion of a flexion of the main body of the shock-resistant device in the event of impacts, reducing the probability of fracture of the shock-resistant device or the detachment of the main body from the base portion.

[0062] Furthermore, any detachments of the base portion from the ground are avoided.

[0063] In other words, in the event of impacts, the upper portion of the main body will tend to flex resiliently or plastically, absorbing the blow caused by the impact. At the same time, the connection portion allows discharge of the energy of the impact, remaining more rigidly secured to the base portion.

[0064] In one embodiment, the connection portion is substantially frustoconical, sloping from the base portion towards the main body.

[0065] In some versions, the connection portion has a greater base having a dimension when viewed from above corresponding to the dimensions of the base portion.

[0066] In that case, the connection portion is constructed continuously with the base portion and with the main body and continuously connects the base portion and main body. Therefore, the cross-section of the shock-resistant device progressively decreases from the base portion to the main body. Preferably, the cross-section of the shock-resistant device decreases continuously from the base portion to the main body. In this manner, the base portion, connection portion and main body are contiguous and continuous so that they do not generate discontinuities along the longitudinal axis of the main body.

[0067] This particular formation of the connection portion promotes and increases the technical advantage conferred by the connection portion on the shock-resistant device. In particular, the counter-impact is attenuated more gradually because the frustoconical form sloping from the base portion allows the base portion to follow the flexion of the main body without bending and therefore without becoming detached from the ground, even in the event of relatively violent impacts.

[0068] This avoids the generation of points of instability in the region of the transition between the base portion and connection portion or between the connection portion and body portion. The connection portion is delimited by an external surface which is inclined with respect to the longitudinal axis of the main body, preferably at an angle between approximately 15° and approximately 70° with respect to the vertical, in a more preferable manner an angle between approximately 20° and approximately 60°.

[0069] The connection portion has a vertical extent between 50 and 300 m.

[0070] The provision of a connection portion allows an increase in the resistance to impacts of the shock-resistant device of the invention. In particular, the Applicant has found that the above-mentioned inclinations allow the production of a good response to impacts.

[0071] The provision of a connection portion which is contiguous and continuous with respect to the base portion prevents the definition of a discontinuity between the base portion and the main body in the region of which the device would tend to flex.

[0072] Furthermore, the frustoconical formation of the connection portion allows greater resistance to be applied counter to the flexion with respect to a formation of the shock-resistant device in which the main body is perpendicular to the base portion and there is defined a shock-resistant device having a T-shape, an angle, the main body extends along a longitudinal axis perpendicular to the base portion and in which there is a discontinuity between the cross-section of the main body and the cross-section of the base portion.

[0073] Furthermore, the provision of a connection portion with an inclined surface with respect to the direction of the longitudinal axis of the device allows an increase in the efficiency of absorption of the impacts.

[0074] Usually, the shock-resistant devices are positioned in a vertical position, that is to say with the longitudinal axis placed parallel with a vertical axis, and the impacts are usually directed in the direction of a horizontal axis. With the connection portion with an inclined surface, when an object or a vehicle strikes the shock-resistant device in the region of the connection portion with an impact which is directed in the horizontal direction, the force applied by the connection portion is directed perpendicularly to the surface of the connection portion itself. This reaction force has a horizontal component and a vertical component. If the surface were to be perpendicular to the direction of the impact, all the force would be dissipated in a single direction. Instead, the provision of a surface which is inclined with respect to the direction of the impact allows some of the force to be redirected and the component of the impact which could deform or move the shock-resistant device to be actually reduced.

[0075] The inclination of the external surface of the connection portion allows an increase in the contact time between the object (vehicle) and the surface of the connection portion, allowing a greater deformation and dissipation of the energy, and thereby reducing the immediate effect of the impact.

[0076] Furthermore, if the object, such as, for example, a vehicle, strikes the inclined surface, the contact surface between the shock-resistant device and the object is greater than a perpendicular surface, which means that the energy is distributed over a surface with a greater area, reducing the maximum pressure which the object applies to the surface itself.

[0077] Furthermore, in the presence of impacts the external frustoconical surface provides a reaction which is directed perpendicularly to the surface of the frustoconical portion and which therefore has a vertical component and a horizontal component. This allows, on the one hand, a reduction in the force directed horizontally to be opposed and transmission of the reaction in the vertical direction of the body.

[0078] Furthermore, the provision of a frustoconical connection surface involves not identifying a single flexion plane for the device and this flexion plane not being located in the region of the base portion but at the connection between the connection portion and the main body. This implies that only the main body of the device could involve flexion, the base portion and the connection portion effectively attenuating the impacts.

[0079] This increases the stability of the device.

[0080] Furthermore, the connection portion is preferably provided with a connection element which is configured as a ribbing.

[0081] More preferably, the connection portion is provided with a plurality of connection elements which are configured as ribbings. The connection elements extend between a first end, which is defined on the base portion, and a second end, which is defined on the main body.

[0082] The provision of at least one connection element which is configured as a ribbing improves the behaviour with respect to flexion of the shock-resistant device, maintaining the stability of the base portion, without excessively making the structure of the shock-resistant device heavier. The provision of one or more ribbings allows an increase in the stability of the shock-resistant device.

[0083] Preferably, the plurality of connection elements are positioned so that the respective first ends of the connection elements are uniformly spaced apart on the base portion and the respective second ends are uniformly spaced apart on the main body.

[0084] This ensures a homogeneous response of the shock-resistant device to the impacts to which it can be subjected, independently of the direction thereof.

[0085] In a preferred form, the connection portion of the shock-resistant device is provided with four connection elements which are configured as ribbings.

[0086] It has been found that this configuration allows optimization of the homogeneity in terms of the response to the impacts of the shock-resistant device. This formation allows an optimum compromise to be obtained between the deformation and stability of the shock-resistant device.

[0087] Preferably, the base portion of the shock-resistant device is provided with at least one cavity.

[0088] More preferably, the base portion of the shock-resistant device is provided with a plurality of cavities which alternate with the connection elements.

[0089] Preferably, the fixing elements can be connected to the shock-resistant device in the region of the cavities.

[0090] This configuration allows the shock-resistant device to be engaged with the ground in an easier and more stable manner, at the same time maintaining a flexion behaviour which is homogeneous in all directions. At the same time, the greater resistance of the connection portion is maintained in an unchanged state, which therefore increases the stability of the engagement of the base portion.

[0091] The base portion is further provided with fixing means which are intended to be connected to fixing elements in order to fix the shock-resistant device to the ground.

[0092] For example, there may be provided in the base portion at least one fixing hole intended to receive a fixing element in order to fix the shock-resistant device to the ground.

[0093] Preferably, the base portion is provided with a plurality of fixing holes, each one being intended to receive a corresponding fixing element in order to fix the shock-resistant device to the ground.

[0094] The fixing element can be selected from the ones known for the purpose in the field in a manner depending on the characteristics of the flooring to which the shock-resistant device would have to be fixed and the characteristics of the shock-resistant device itself.

[0095] The fixing element is preferably a screw or a nail or a screw type anchoring means, an expansion block, chemical type threaded bars or a threaded bush with a screw. Advantageously, in the region of each fixing hole there is provided a washer having a dimension greater than the dimensions of the fixing holes in order to distribute the force of the impact. This allows the stability of the fixing to the ground to be increased.

[0096] This method for anchoring to the ground allows speed and simplicity in the installation step and ensures an extensive contact surface between the shock-resistant device and the ground.

[0097] Furthermore, the shock-resistant device can advantageously be released from the ground and repositioned in order to be adapted and used again for other areas to be protected or for new requirements following installation.

[0098] Preferably, the at least one fixing hole and / or fixing holes of the plurality of fixing holes are provided in the region of the cavity and / or the cavities of the base portion.

[0099] In this manner, the fixing of the shock-resistant device to the ground is simplified, at the same time maintaining a good shock-resistant action.

[0100] Preferably, the shock-resistant device according to the invention can be produced by moulding, preferably rotational moulding.

[0101] The main body comprises an upper portion which is provided at the opposite side with respect to the base portion preferably having a convex-curved form.

[0102] In another version, the upper portion of the main body is planar. In one embodiment, the base portion is disk-shaped. In one embodiment, the main body is substantially cylindrical.

[0103] This version allows a particularly homogeneous response to the impacts to be obtained. This embodiment is particularly suitable for protecting isolated vulnerable points of a premises, such as corners of industrial portions, platform balances, loading bays, fire doors and refrigerating cells.

[0104] In another embodiment, the main body is delimited by an external surface comprising two or more surface portions which are connected to each other. Preferably, the external surface comprises a first surface portion and a second surface portion.

[0105] In particular, the external surface may have a first surface portion having a convex-curved surface towards the exterior and a second rectilinear surface portion which is connected to the first curved surface portion. Preferably, the first curved surface portion extends over an angle of at least 90°, even more preferably of at least 180°.

[0106] In one version, the second surface portion comprises three rectilinear faces which are connected so as to form a broken U-shaped surface.

[0107] The presence of a curved surface portion and a rectilinear surface portion allows optimization of the positioning of the shock-resistant device while maintaining a high level of response to impacts. In particular, this version of the shock-resistant device is particularly suitable for being positioned with the rectilinear surface portion directed towards a wall and with the curved surface portion directed towards the interior of the premises in which the shock-resistant device is positioned.

[0108] In this manner, the shock-resistant device can be positioned so as to be tightly against or very close to the wall while the curved surface portion optimizes the response to the impacts.

[0109] In one version, the shock-resistant device of the invention comprises at least one engaging device provided on the external surface of the main body. This at least one engaging device allows a protection element to be engaged with the shock-resistant device.

[0110] In one version of the shock-resistant device of the invention, the at least one engaging device comprises at least one engaging hole which is formed in the external surface of the main body. This at least one engaging hole allows a protection element to be engaged with the shock-resistant device.

[0111] In another version, the at least one engaging device comprises an engaging pin which projects from the external surface of the main body in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the main body and is intended to be inserted in a cavity of the protection element in order to engage a protection element with the shock-resistant device.

[0112] This allows a protection system suitable for protecting more extensive areas with respect to the shock-resistant device from the impacts to be constructed.

[0113] In some embodiments, the shock-resistant device comprises a plurality of engaging devices which are provided on the external surface of the main body of the shock-resistant device.

[0114] In one embodiment of the shock-resistant device, the plurality of engaging devices comprise a plurality of engaging holes which are formed in the external surface of the main body of the shock-resistant device.

[0115] In another version, the plurality of engaging devices comprise a plurality of engaging pins which project from the external surface of the main body in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the main body, each pin of the plurality of engaging pins being intended to be inserted in a cavity of a respective protection element in order to engage a protection element with the shock-resistant device.

[0116] In other versions, the shock-resistant device may be provided with one or more engaging holes and one or more engaging pins.

[0117] This allows engagement of the shock-resistant device with a plurality of protection elements or the engagement of the engaging elements with the shock-resistant device to be made more secure.

[0118] The protection elements may be, for example, grids or bars, for example, made from plastics material so as to be deformable following impacts.

[0119] In one version, the protection elements are configured so as to absorb any impacts themselves. In a preferred version, therefore, the protection elements are also shock-resistant protection elements.

[0120] In some versions, the protection elements are internally hollow bars.

[0121] Preferably, the protection elements are defined as elongate bodies with a main longitudinal development and are provided with ribbings which extend along their own longitudinal axis.

[0122] This allows the performance levels of the protection system constructed to be optimized.

[0123] Preferably, the engaging holes of the plurality of engaging holes are mutually spaced apart along the longitudinal axis of the shock-resistant device and allow one or more protection elements to be engaged with the shock-resistant device.

[0124] In a preferred version, the engaging holes of the plurality of engaging holes are aligned with each other.

[0125] The engaging pins of the plurality of engaging pins are preferably mutually spaced apart along the longitudinal axis of the shock-resistant device and allow one or more protection elements to be engaged with the shock-resistant device.

[0126] In a preferred version, the engaging pins of the plurality of engaging pins are aligned with each other.

[0127] In some versions, the shock-resistant device is provided with a row of engaging holes which are mutually aligned along the longitudinal axis and a row of engaging pins aligned along the longitudinal axis. Usually, the shock-resistant device is positioned by supporting the base portion on the ground and fixing the base portion to the ground by means of the fixing elements; furthermore, the shock-resistant device is preferably positioned so that the longitudinal axis is arranged substantially vertically.

[0128] Therefore, the longitudinal axis X is a vertical axis in the preferred version.

[0129] The provision of a plurality of engaging holes or engaging pins which are mutually spaced apart along the longitudinal axis allows the engagement of the protection elements at different heights, that is to say at different distances from the ground, so as to obtain effective protection even following impacts with movement devices with greater dimensions.

[0130] In one version, the shock-resistant device comprises a first row of engaging holes and a second row of engaging holes.

[0131] The engaging holes of the first row of engaging holes are provided on the first external surface portion in a manner mutually spaced apart and aligned along the longitudinal axis.

[0132] The engaging holes of the second row of engaging holes are provided on the second external surface portion in a manner mutually spaced apart and aligned along the longitudinal axis.

[0133] Preferably, the engaging holes of the first and second rows of engaging holes are positioned in a mutually corresponding position along the longitudinal axis so as to generate a plurality of through-holes through the main body.

[0134] In one version, the shock-resistant device comprises a first row of engaging pins and a second row of engaging pins.

[0135] The engaging pins of the first row of engaging pins are provided on the first external surface portion in a manner mutually spaced apart and aligned along the longitudinal axis.

[0136] The engaging pins of the second row of engaging pins are provided on the second external surface portion in a manner mutually spaced apart and aligned along the longitudinal axis.

[0137] Preferably, the engaging pins of the first and second rows of engaging pins are positioned in a mutually corresponding position.

[0138] Preferably, the shock-resistant device comprises a connection bar comprising a connection body which is arranged internally with respect to the main body and a first engaging pin and a second engaging pin which are connected to the connection body and which are intended to project externally with respect to the external surface of the main body for engaging with a respective protection element. Preferably, the connection body, the first engaging pin and the additional engaging pin are made in a single piece.

[0139] Preferably, the connection bar has a substantially longitudinal development, the engaging pin and the additional engaging pin being connected at opposite ends of the connection body which are opposite along the transverse axis of the main body.

[0140] In one version, the engaging holes of the first row of engaging holes and the holes of the second row of engaging holes are provided on the main body in diametrically opposite positions.

[0141] In one version, the engaging holes of the first row of engaging holes and the holes of the second row of engaging holes are provided on the main body in such a position that the respective passing radii define a circular sector with an angle at the centre of approximately 90°. In other words, the engaging holes of the first row of engaging holes and the holes of the second row of engaging holes are arranged in such a manner that the respective axes extend along axes which are mutually perpendicular. In this manner, there can be connected to the engaging holes protection elements having a mutually perpendicular direction.

[0142] In one version, the engaging pins of the first row of engaging pins and the engaging pins of the second row of engaging pins are provided on the main body at such a position that the respective radii define a circular sector with an angle at the centre of approximately 90°. In other words, the engaging pins of the first row of engaging pins and the engaging pins of the second row of engaging pins are arranged in such a manner that the respective axes are mutually perpendicular. In this manner, the protection elements which are engaged with the engaging pins of the first row of engaging pins extend in a direction perpendicular to that of the protection elements which are engaged with the engaging pins of the second row of engaging pins.

[0143] In one embodiment, the second surface portion comprises three rectilinear faces which are mutually incident and connected so as to form a broken U-shaped surface. In particular, the surface portion comprises a first lateral face and an opposite second lateral face, the first and second lateral faces facing each other, and a central face which is interposed between the first and second lateral faces.

[0144] Preferably, the holes of the first row of engaging holes are provided in the first lateral face and the holes of the second row of engaging holes are provided in the second lateral face.

[0145] In one version, the engaging pins of the first row of engaging pins are provided on the first lateral face and the engaging pins of the second row of engaging pins are provided on the second lateral face.

[0146] In this version, each engaging pin of the first row of engaging pins and the corresponding engaging pin of the second row of engaging pins are provided on opposite faces of the connection body. In this manner, it is possible to engage with the shock-resistant device protection elements which extend in opposite directions, increasing the area of protection which can be obtained.

[0147] In one version, the engaging pins of the first row of engaging pins are provided on the first lateral face and the engaging pins of the second row of engaging pins are provided on the central face.

[0148] In this version, each engaging pin of the first row of engaging pins and the corresponding engaging pin of the second row of engaging pins are provided on incident faces of the connection body.

[0149] It is thereby possible to engage with the shock-resistant device protection elements which extend in mutually incident directions which are preferably perpendicular.

[0150] Preferably, there may be constructed a protection system comprising a plurality of shock-resistant devices which are arranged beside each other and spaced apart in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis of the shock-resistant device and one or more protection elements which are engaged with and extend between two adjacent shock-resistant devices of the plurality of shock-resistant devices.

[0151] Preferably, the protection elements extend in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis of the shock-resistant device.

[0152] The protection elements can extend substantially parallel with the ground.

[0153] This embodiment is particularly suitable for constructing protection systems with a barrier or railing.

[0154] This solution allows the construction of a shock-resistant protection system which protects from impacts which provide for different heights with respect to the ground and which provides a great contact surface and therefore a greater protected area.

[0155] This "barrier" type protection system is advantageous for the safety not only of the premises but also of the operators and more generally the pedestrians who access areas at risk of impact with moving carriages and vehicles.

[0156] By varying the positioning of the shock-resistant devices and the mutual distance between two adjacent shock-resistant devices, it is possible to obtain shock-resistant systems which are adapted to the configuration of the premises or the zone to be protected.

[0157] The features and advantages of the invention will be better appreciated from the detailed description of a number of preferred exemplary embodiments thereof which are illustrated by way of non-limiting example with reference to the appended drawings, in which: Figures 1 to 3 illustrate an embodiment of the shock-resistant device as a perspective view, front view and longitudinal section, respectively, Figures 4 to 6 illustrate an embodiment of the shock-resistant device as a perspective view, front view and longitudinal section, respectively, Figure 7 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the protection system; Figure 8 illustrates another embodiment of the shock-resistant device; Figure 9 is a perspective view of an additional exemplary embodiment of the protection system using the shock-resistant device of Figure 8; Figure 10 is a perspective, exploded view of the additional embodiment of the shock-resistant device in Figure 8; Figure 11 is a perspective, exploded view of an additional exemplary embodiment of the protection system using the shock-resistant device of Figure 10.

[0158] In the exemplary embodiments of Figures 1 to 3, there is generally designated 100 a shock-resistant device according to the present invention.

[0159] The shock-resistant device 100 comprises a main body 1 which is internally hollow and which is delimited by an external surface S and which extends along a longitudinal axis X between a first longitudinal end 1A and a second opposite longitudinal end 1B. The device 100 further comprises a base portion 2 which is provided in the region of the second end 1B of the main body 1 and which is intended to be supported on the ground in order to support the shock-resistant device 100. The shock-resistant device 100 is in the form of a single piece. The base portion 2 and the main body 1 are formed as a single piece.

[0160] The main body 1 comprises, in the version of Figures 1 to 3, a cylindrical body portion 10 which is substantially cylindrical and which has a cross-section with a diameter D1 and which is delimited by a rounded upper portion 8 which is convex towards the outer side. The body portion 10 extends between the first longitudinal end 1A and an intermediate section 1C of the main body 1.

[0161] The base portion 2 is in the form of a disk with a cross-section with a diameter D2 which is greater than the diameter D1 of the main body 1.

[0162] In general, the cross-section of the main body is smaller than the cross-section of the base portion.

[0163] The shock-resistant device 100 comprises a connection portion 3 which is interposed between the base portion 2 and the main body 1 and which extends from the base 2 as far as the intermediate section 1C of the main body 1. The connection portion 3 is also in the form of a single piece with the base portion 2 and the body portion 10. The connection portion 3 has a tapered form which is substantially frustoconical, sloping away from the base portion 2 towards the main body 1.

[0164] The connection portion 3 is delimited by an external surface SA which is inclined with respect to the longitudinal axis X of the main body at an angle α of approximately 20°.

[0165] The connection portion 3 is in the form of a truncated cone having a smaller base with a cross-section when viewed from above corresponding to that of the body portion 10 and a greater base having a dimension when viewed from above less than the dimensions of the base portion 2 so that there is defined on the base portion 2 a zone 2A without a connection portion 3 with a circular-ring-like form.

[0166] The connection portion 3 is provided with four connection elements 5 which are configured as ribbings which extend between a first end 5A which is defined on the base portion 2 and a second end 5B which is defined on the main body 1. The walls of the connection elements 5 are inclined with respect to the longitudinal axis X.

[0167] The connection elements 5 are positioned so that the respective first ends 5A are uniformly spaced apart on the base portion 2 and the second ends 5B are uniformly spaced apart on the main body 1.

[0168] The base portion 2 is provided with four cavities 22 which are interposed between the first ends 5A of the connection elements 5.

[0169] The cavities 22 are provided with fixing holes 4 which are intended to receive fixing elements for fixing the shock-resistant device 100 to the ground. Fixing elements which are known in the sector can be used, such as, for example, screws or nails, screw type anchoring members, expansion blocks, chemical type threaded bars, threaded bush with a screw, which are inserted in the fixing holes 4. In the region of each fixing hole 4, there can further be provided a washer or similar element which has a cross-section greater than the fixing hole and which is intended to distribute the force of the impact. This allows the stability of the fixing to the ground to be increased.

[0170] In a version which is not shown, the shock-resistant device 100 is provided with at least one engaging hole for engaging a protection element with the shock-resistant device 100.

[0171] With reference to Figures 4 to 6, there is shown a second embodiment of the shock-resistant device according to the invention, in which parts corresponding to the parts of the shock-resistant device of Figures 1 to 3 will be indicated with the same reference numerals, followed by a prime mark, and will not be described in detail.

[0172] The shock-resistant device 100' comprises a main body 1' which is delimited by an external surface S' having at least one convex-curved surface portion S c , which extends over an angle of approximately 180° and a planar surface portion S p .

[0173] The planar surface portion S p comprises a first lateral face F 1 and an opposite second lateral face F 2 , the first and second lateral faces F 1 , F 2 facing each other, and a central face F c which is interposed between the first lateral face F 1 and the second lateral face F 2 . The planar surface portion S p is in the form of a "C".

[0174] The main body 1' of the shock-resistant device 100' comprises a plurality of engaging holes 6 which are formed on the external surface S' and which are mutually spaced apart along the longitudinal axis X'. The plurality of engaging holes 6 comprise a first row of engaging holes 6' which are provided on the first lateral face F 1 and a second row of engaging holes 6" which are provided on the second lateral face F 2 .

[0175] The engaging holes 6 F of the first row of engaging holes 6' are mutually spaced apart and aligned on the first lateral face F 1 along the longitudinal axis X' of the main body 1'.

[0176] The engaging holes 6 F of the second row of engaging holes 6" are mutually spaced apart and aligned on the second lateral face F 2 along the longitudinal axis X' of the main body 1'.

[0177] Furthermore, the engaging holes 6 F of the first row of engaging holes 6' and the second row of engaging holes 6" are positioned in a position mutually corresponding along the longitudinal axis X' so that there is defined a through-channel through the main body 1' so as to place in communication the first and second lateral faces F 1 , F 2 of the shock-resistant device 100'.

[0178] The engaging holes 6 F of the first and second rows of engaging holes 6', 6" allow the engagement with the shock-resistant device 100' of a plurality of protection elements which branch off in a transverse direction with respect to the longitudinal axis X' of the shock-resistant device 100'.

[0179] Figure 7 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a protection system 150 of the "barrier" or "railing" type comprising a first, second and third shock-resistant device 100'A, 100'B, 100'C which are constructed according to the present invention and which are intended to be fixed to the ground, arranged beside one another and spaced apart by a specific distance "d 3 " in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis X' of the shock-resistant devices 100'A, 100'B, 100'C.

[0180] The protection system 150 further comprises first protection elements 40A-40C which extend between the first and second shock-resistant devices 100'A, 100'B and second protection elements 40D-40F which extend between the second and third shock-resistant devices 100'B, 100'C.

[0181] Each of the protection elements 40A-40F is engaged in the region of two engaging holes 6 F of any two of the shock-resistant devices 100'A, 100'B, 100'C which are adjacent.

[0182] In particular, the first protection elements 40A-40C are engaged at the opposite ends thereof with the engaging holes 6 F of the second row of engaging holes 6" of the first shock-resistant devices 100'A and the engaging holes 6 F of the first row of engaging holes 6' of the second shock-resistant device 100'B.

[0183] The first protection elements 40A-40C are spaced apart along the vertical axis so as to be positioned at different heights Z 1 , Z 2 , Z 3 . The height is also defined as the distance of the protection element 40A-40C from the ground or from the flooring on which the shock-resistant devices is fixed.

[0184] The second protection elements 40D-40F are engaged at a first end thereof with the engaging holes 6 F of the second row of holes 6" of the second shock-resistant device 100'B and at an opposite end with the engaging holes 6 F of the first row of engaging holes 6' of the third shock-resistant devices 100'C.

[0185] The protection elements 40D-40F are spaced apart along the vertical axis so as to be positioned at different heights Z 4 , Z 5 , Z 6 . The height is defined as the distance of the protection element 40D-40F from the ground or from the flooring.

[0186] The protection elements 40A-40F extend in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis X' of the shock-resistant devices 100'A, 100'B, 100'C and extend substantially parallel with the ground.

[0187] The protection elements are made from flexible material, for example, a plastics material having a flexural modulus of elasticity or bending modulus between approximately 0.4 and approximately 1.5 GPa.

[0188] There is thereby obtained a protection system which allows optimization of the response to the impacts both in the region of the shock-resistant devices 100'A, 100'B, 100'C and in the region of the protection elements 40A-40F.

[0189] With reference to Figure 8 there is shown a third embodiment of the shock-resistant device according to the invention in which parts corresponding to the parts of the shock-resistant device of Figures 1 to 3 will be indicated with the same reference numerals, followed by a double prime mark, and will not be described in detail.

[0190] The connection portion 3" extends from the body portion 10" to the base portion 2" and has a frustoconical form with a smaller base equal to the dimension when viewed from above of the base portion 2" and a smaller base equal to the dimension when viewed from above of the body portion 10". The connection portion 3" is continuous and contiguous with the base portion 2" and the body portion 10".

[0191] The main body 1" is provided with a plurality of vertical profilings 11 which are provided on the external surface S" and which extend along the body portion 10" and the connection portion 3" and the base portion 2" and which are intended to promote the deformation of the shock-resistant device 100".

[0192] The shock-resistant device 100" is further provided with a plurality of connection bars 30 which are only partially visible and arranged partially internally with respect to the body portion 10" and which are spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal axis X" of the shock-resistant device 100".

[0193] Each connection bar 30 comprises a connection body which is positioned internally with respect to the body portion 10", which cannot be seen in the Figures, an engaging pin 7A, 7B, 7C and an additional engaging pin 7'A, 7'B, 7'C which are connected at diametrically opposite ends of the main body 1" and which are intended to project externally relative to the external surface S" of the body portion 10" in order to engage with a protection element.

[0194] The engaging pin 7A, 7B, 7C and the corresponding additional engaging pin 7'A, 7'B, 7'C are preferably arranged at the same vertical height. Furthermore, the engaging pin 7A, 7B, 7C and the corresponding additional engaging pin 7'A, 7'B, 7'C are arranged in diametrically opposite positions on the external surface S" of the body portion 10".

[0195] The engaging pins 7A, 7B, 7C, 7'A, 7'B, 7'C of the shock-resistant device 100" are arranged so as to form a first row of engaging pins 70A and a second row of engaging pins 70'A. The engaging pins 7A, 7B, 7C of the first row of engaging pins 70A are aligned along the longitudinal axis X" of the shock-resistant device 100" and are spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal axis X" so as to engage one or more protection elements 41A, 41B, 41C with the shock-resistant device 100". Similarly, the engaging pins 7'A, 7'B, 7'C of the second row of engaging pins 70'A are aligned along the longitudinal axis X" of the shock-resistant device 100" and are spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal axis X" so as to engage one or more protection elements 41A, 41B, 41C with the shock-resistant device 100".

[0196] In the version shown, the engaging pins 7A, 7B, 7C, 7'A, 7'B, 7'C of the first and second rows 70A, 70A' of engaging pins are provided on the same connection bar 30 and are arranged at vertical heights which are mutually identical and corresponding, respectively, but in other versions the engaging pins 7A, 7B, 7C of the first row of engaging pins 70'A can be staggered with respect to the corresponding engaging pins 7'A, 7'B, 7'C of the second row of engaging pins 70'A.

[0197] In this case, each engaging pin 7A, 7B, 7C, 7'A, 7'B, 7'C is in the form of a different body and can be provided with a respective connection portion which is arranged internally with respect to the body portion 10".

[0198] In the version of Figure 8, the engaging pins 7A, 7B, 7C, 7'A, 7'B, 7'C are arranged in positions diametrically opposite each other.

[0199] These shock-resistant devices 100" can be used to obtain a protection system 200 such as the one shown in Figure 9 comprising two shock-resistant devices 100"A, 100"B which are intended to be fixed to the ground and which are beside each other and spaced apart by a specific distance in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis X" of the shock-resistant devices 100"A, 100"B.

[0200] The protection system 200 further comprises a plurality of protection elements 41A, 41B, 41C which are intended to be engaged with the first and second shock-resistant devices 100"A, 100"B.

[0201] Each protection element 41A, 41B, 41C is intended to be engaged at the opposite longitudinal ends thereof in the region of two engaging pins 7A, 7B, 7C, 7'A, 7'B, 7'C of two adjacent shock-resistant devices 100"A, 100"B, respectively. The protection elements 41A, 41B, 41C are spaced apart along the vertical axis so as to be positioned at different heights. The height is also defined as the distance of the protection element 41A, 41B, 41C from the ground or the flooring on which the shock-resistant devices 100" is fixed.

[0202] The protection elements 41A, 41B, 41C extend in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis X" of the shock-resistant devices 100"A, 100"B and extend substantially parallel with the ground.

[0203] In this manner, the protection elements 41A, 41B, 41C are aligned if the engaging pins 7A, 7B, 7C, 7'A, 7'B, 7'C are provided at the same vertical height and / or if the support plane is substantially horizontal.

[0204] The protection elements 41A, 41B, 41C are in the form of bars with a main longitudinal development which are internally hollow so as to receive therein the engaging pins 7A, 7B, 7C, 7'A, 7'B, 7'C of the shock-resistant device 100"A, 100"B.

[0205] The protection system 200 is further provided with fixing elements 201 for mutually fixing the protection elements 41A, 41B, 41C and the shock-resistant devices 100"A, 100"B.

[0206] With reference to Figure 9, there is shown a fourth embodiment of the shock-resistant device 1000 according to the invention in which parts corresponding to the parts of the shock-resistant device of Figures 8 will be indicated with the same reference numerals and will not be described in detail.

[0207] The shock-resistant device 1000 of Figure 9 differs from the one shown in Figure 8 substantially as a result of the position of the engaging pins of the first row of engaging pins 70A and the second row of engaging pins 70'A.

[0208] In this version, in fact, the engaging pins 7A, 7B, 7C of the first row of engaging pins 70A and the engaging pins 7'A, 7'B, 7'C of the second row of engaging pins 70'A extend along axes parallel with the transverse axis Y" of the main body 1" but perpendicular to each other. The engaging pins 7A, 7B, 7C of the first row of engaging pins 70A and the engaging pins 7'A, 7'B, 7'C of the second row of engaging pins 70'A are provided on the external surface so as to extend along axes which are mutually perpendicular. In this manner, there can be connected to the engaging elements protection elements 41A, 41B, 41C having a direction perpendicular to each other.

[0209] It is possible to obtain protection systems 300 such as the one shown in Figure 11 in which the protection elements 41A, 41B, 41C which are engaged with the same shock-resistant device 1000A extend in mutually perpendicular directions.

[0210] Each protection element 41A, 41B, 41C is engaged at the opposite longitudinal ends thereof in the region of two engaging pins 7A, 7B, 7C, 7'A, 7'B, 7'C of two mutually adjacent shock-resistant devices 1000A, 1000B or 1000A, 1000C, respectively.

[0211] The protection elements 41A, 41B, 41C are spaced apart along the vertical axis so as to be positioned at different heights Z 1 , Z 2 , Z 3 .

[0212] The protection elements 41A, 41B, 41C extend in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis X" of the shock-resistant devices 100"A, 100"B and extend substantially parallel with the ground.

[0213] The shock-resistant devices 100", 1000 can be used in various combinations in accordance with the form and the development desired for the protection system to be used and the features of the protection elements 41A, 41B, 41C.

[0214] It is possible to construct protection systems comprising at least one first shock-resistant device and one second shock-resistant device which are intended to be positioned on the ground at a specific distance from each other so that the at least one engaging device of the first shock-resistant device faces the at least one engaging device of the second shock-resistant device and at least one protection element which is arranged with and which extends between the first shock-resistant device and the second shock-resistant device in the region of the respective engaging devices.

[0215] It is possible to construct protection systems comprising at least one first shock-resistant device and one second shock-resistant device which are intended to be positioned on the ground at a specific distance from each other so that the at least one engaging hole of the first shock-resistant device faces the at least one engaging hole of the second shock-resistant device and at least one protection element which is engaged with and extends between the first shock-resistant device and the second shock-resistant device in the region of the respective engaging holes.

[0216] It is possible to construct protection systems comprising at least one first shock-resistant device and one second shock-resistant device which are intended to be positioned on the ground at a specific distance from each other so that the at least one engaging pin of the first shock-resistant device faces the at least one engaging pin of the second shock-resistant device and at least one protection element which is engaged with and extends between the first shock-resistant device and the second shock-resistant device in the region of the respective engaging pins.

[0217] The protection system may comprise a first shock-resistant device and one second shock-resistant device which are intended to be positioned on the ground at a specific distance from each other so that the engaging devices, engaging holes or engaging pins of the first shock-resistant device face the engaging devices, engaging holes or engaging pins, of the plurality of engaging devices of the second shock-resistant device and a plurality of protection elements which are engaged with and extend between the first shock-resistant device and the second shock-resistant device in the region of the respective engaging devices of the respective pluralities of engaging devices.

Claims

1. Shock-resistant device (100; 100') comprising: a main body (1; 1') which has an elongate form, is internally hollow and delimited by an external surface (S; S') and extends along a longitudinal axis (X; X') between a first longitudinal end (1A; 1'A) and a second opposite longitudinal end (1B; 1'B), a base portion (2) which is provided in the region of said second longitudinal end (1B; 1'B) and which is intended to be anchored to the ground in order to fix said shock-resistant device (100; 100') to the ground, said base portion (2; 2') having a cross-section (D2; D'2) which is greater than the cross-section (D1; D'2) of the main body (1; 1') in order to increase the stability on the ground of said shock-resistant device (100; 100'), said main body (1; 1') and said base portion (2; 2') being made from plastics material having a flexural modulus of elasticity between approximately 0.4 and approximately 1.5 GPa, said base portion (2; 2') being made in a single piece with said main body (1; 1') in order to increase the resistance to impacts of said shock-resistant device (100; 100').

2. Shock-resistant device (100; 100') according to the preceding claim, wherein said shock-resistant device (100; 100') is made from thermoplastic material, the thermoplastic material being selected from the group comprising polyolefins, in particular polyethylenes and polypropylene, and polyvinyls, in particular PVC.

3. Shock-resistant device (100; 100') according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said main body (1; 1') further comprises a connection portion (3; 3') which extends between said base portion (2; 2') and a body portion (10") of said main body (1; 1') and which is made in one piece with the base portion (2; 2') and said body portion (10"), said connection portion (3; 3') being provided with at least one connection element (5; 5') which is configured as a ribbing which extends between a first end (5A; 5'A) which is defined on the base portion (2; 2') and a second end (5B; 5B') which is defined on said main body (1; 1').

4. Shock-resistant device (100; 100') according to the preceding claim, wherein said connection portion (3; 3') is provided with a plurality of connection elements (5; 5') which are configured as ribbings and which are positioned in such a manner that the respective first ends (5A; 5'A) are equally spaced apart on said base portion (2; 2') and said second ends (5B; 5B') are equally spaced apart on said main body (1; 1'), the connection portion (3; 3') preferably being provided with four connection elements (5; 5').

5. Shock-resistant device (100; 100') according to claim 3 or 4, wherein said connection portion (3; 3') is delimited by an external surface (SA) which is inclined with respect to the longitudinal axis (X; X') of the main body at an angle (α) between approximately 15° and approximately 70°, preferably at an angle (α) between approximately 20° and approximately 60°.

6. Shock-resistant device (100') according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said connection portion (3; 3') is in the form of a truncated cone having a smaller base with a cross-section when viewed from above corresponding to that of the body portion (10") and a greater base having a dimension when viewed from above corresponding to that of the base portion (2).

7. Shock-resistant device (100; 100') according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said base portion (2; 2') is provided with a plurality of cavities (22; 22') which are intended to receive a fixing element in order to fix the shock-resistant device to the ground.

8. Shock-resistant device (100') according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said main body (1') is delimited by an external surface (S') having at least one convex-curved surface portion (Sc) which extends over an angle of at least 90°, preferably at least 180°, in a particularly preferred form the convex-curved surface portion is a circular surface portion.

9. Shock-resistant device (100') according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said main body (1; 1') is provided with channels which extend along the longitudinal axis (X') of the shock-resistant device, said channels preferably extending along said body portion and said connection portion.

10. Shock-resistant device (100; 100') according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said main body (1; 1') comprises at least one engaging device which is provided on the external surface (S; S') of said main body (1; 1') in order to engage at least one protection element (40A-40F) with said shock-resistant device (100; 100'), said at least one engaging device preferably being an engaging hole or an engaging pin.

11. Shock-resistant device (100; 100') according to the preceding claim, wherein said main body (1; 1') comprises a plurality of engaging holes (6) which are formed on said external surface (S; S') of said main body (1; 1'), the engaging holes (6F) of the plurality of engaging holes (6) being mutually spaced apart along said longitudinal axis (X; X') of the said body (1; 1'), said plurality of engaging holes (6) preferably comprises a first row of engaging holes (6'), the engaging holes (6F) of the first row of engaging holes (6') being formed in a portion of said external surface (S; S') and being mutually spaced apart and aligned along the longitudinal axis (X; X') and a second row of engaging holes (6"), the engaging holes (6F) of the second row of engaging holes (6") being formed in a second portion of the external surface (S; S') and being mutually spaced apart and aligned along the longitudinal axis (X; X'), the engaging holes (6F) of the first row of engaging holes (6') and the second row of engaging holes (6") being positioned in a mutually corresponding position along the longitudinal axis (X; X') so that there is defined a single through-channel through the main body (1; 1').

12. Shock-resistant device (100; 100') according to the preceding claim, wherein said main body (1; 1') comprises a plurality of engaging pins (7) which project from the external surface (S; S') of the main body (1; 1'), the engaging pins of the plurality of engaging pins being mutually spaced apart along the longitudinal axis (X; X') of the main body (1; 1'), the plurality of engaging pins preferably comprise a first row of engaging pins, the engaging pins of the first row of engaging pins being formed in a portion of said external surface (S; S') and being mutually spaced apart and aligned along the longitudinal axis (X; X') and a second row of engaging pins, the engaging pins of the second row of engaging pins being formed in a second portion of said external surface (S; S') and being mutually spaced apart and aligned along the longitudinal axis (X; X'), the engaging pins of the first row of engaging pins and the second row of engaging pins being positioned in a mutually corresponding position along the longitudinal axis (X; X').

13. Protection system (150) comprising at least one shock-resistant device (100') according to any one of claims 10 to 12 and at least one protection element (40A-40F) which is engaged with the shock-resistant device (100') in the region of the at least one engaging hole (6F).

14. Protection system (150) comprising at least a first shock-resistant device (100'A) according to any one of claims 10 to 12 and a second shock-resistant device (100'B) according to any one of claims 10 to 12, which are intended to be positioned on the ground at a specific distance (d3) from each other so that said at least one engaging device (6F) of the first shock-resistant device (100'A) faces the at least one engaging device (6F) of the second shock-resistant device (100'B) and at least one protection element (40A-40F) which is engaged with and extends between said first shock-resistant device (100'A) and said second shock-resistant device (100'B) in the region of the respective engaging devices (6F).

15. Protection system (150) according to any one of claims 13 and 14, comprising at least a first shock-resistant device (100'A) and a second shock-resistant device (100'B) which are intended to be positioned on the ground at a specific distance (d3) from each other so that the engaging devices (6F) of the plurality of engaging devices (6) of the first shock-resistant device (100'A) face the engaging devices (6F) of the plurality of engaging devices (6) of the second shock-resistant device (100'B) and a plurality of protection elements (40A-40F) which are engaged with and extend between the first shock-resistant device (100'A) and the second shock-resistant device (100'B) in the region of the engaging devices (6F) of the respective pluralities of engaging devices (6).

Images