Barrier structure for blast protection

Abstract

A barrier structure (10) comprises a container (16) for receiving liquid. The container has a top (18) comprising at least one outlet, and front and rear external walls (12, 14) formed from self-supporting, flexible, resilient material. Internal walls (20) are located in the container between the front external wall (12) and the rear external wall (14) and are movable towards or away from either one or both of the front (12) and rear (14) external walls. The barrier structure provides protection against explosions and the like, and any projectiles, shrapnel and fires produced as a result.

Description

[0001] BARRIER STRUCTURE FOR BLAST PROTECTION

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present invention relates to structures for providing protection against explosions and the like, and any projectiles, shrapnel and fires produced as a result.

[0004] SUMMARY

[0005] A first aspect of the present invention provides a barrier structure comprising: a plurality of external walls defining a container for receiving liquid, the container having a top comprising at least one outlet, said external walls including a front external wall and a rear external wall; and at least one internal wall located in said container between said front external wall and said rear external wall, wherein at least said front external wall is formed from self-supporting, flexible, resilient material, and wherein said at least one internal wall is movable towards or away from either one or both of said front and rear external walls.

[0006] Optionally, either one or both of the front and rear external walls are formed from semi-rigid material.

[0007] Preferably, said external wall, said rear external wall, and said at least one internal wall are parallel, or substantially parallel, with each other, and / or said at least one internal wall comprises a plurality of internal walls that are preferably parallel with each other.

[0008] Typically, said at least one internal wall is made from flexible material.

[0009] Preferably, said at least one internal wall is made from flexible, non-resilient material.

[0010] Optionally, said at least one internal walls comprises a single sheet of material.

[0011] Preferably, said at least one internal wall comprises a plurality of strips extending in a top-to-bottom direction of the container.

[0012] Optionally, said at least one internal wall is suspended in the container.

[0013] Preferably, said at least one internal wall is suspended via at least one supporting structure, and / or other suspension means, and wherein, optionally, said at least one supporting structure and / or suspension means is configured to suspend said at least one internal wall directly or indirectly from any one or more of said external walls, said top, a cover or other structure located at the top of the container or the top of the barrier structure, and / or a bottom of the container.

[0014] Preferably, said at least one internal wall is releasably held in a deployed state.

[0015] Typically, said at least one internal wall is releasably held by retaining means located in the container, conveniently at a bottom of the container, said retaining means being configured to releasably receive or engage with a portion of, conveniently a bottom portion of, said at least one internal wall.

[0016] Typically, the retaining means comprises a rod or other retaining structure in which a slot is formed, said slot being configured to releasably retain said portion of said at least one internal wall, optionally by means of a friction fit or by being configured to resiliently grip said portion.

[0017] Preferably, at least one intermediate wall is located in said container between the front and rear external walls, said at least one intermediate wall being formed from flexible, resilient material, preferably semi-rigid material.

[0018] Preferably, said at least one intermediate wall extends parallel, or substantially parallel, with the front and rear external walls, and / or with said at least one internal wall, or otherwise in a side-to-side direction of the container.

[0019] Typically, at least a respective one of said at least one internal wall is located between any one or more of: the front external wall and said at least one intermediate wall; the rear external wall and said at least one intermediate wall; and adjacent instances of said at least one intermediate wall.

[0020] Preferably, the barrier structure further includes at least one tie connecting said front external wall to said rear external wall or to an adjacent internal wall, or connecting either one of said front external wall and said rear external wall to an intermediate structure in said container, and / or connecting said front external wall to an adjacent internal wall, and / or adjacent internal walls to each other, and / or said intermediate structure to one or more adjacent internal walls.

[0021] Optionally, said supporting structures and / or said suspension means comprise at least one tie connecting said front external wall to an adjacent internal wall, and / or adjacent internal walls to each other, and / or said intermediate structure to one or more adjacent internal walls, and / or and said rear external wall to an adjacent internal wall and / or said intermediate structure.

[0022] Optionally, said at least one tie extends perpendicularly between the front external wall, internal walls, intermediate structure, and / or rear external wall, and / or perpendicularly between said front external wall and said intermediate structure or between said rear external wall and said intermediate structure.

[0023] Typically, said intermediate structure is said at least one intermediate wall.

[0024] Optionally, said at least one tie is formed from flexible material, preferably semi-rigid material, and is preferably held in tension.

[0025] Optionally, said at least one outlet is provided in a cover that covers the top of the container. Preferably, said cover includes a plurality of spaced apart outlets distributed over the top of the container.

[0026] Optionally, said outlets decrease in size from the front or rear edges of the top to the centre of the top.

[0027] Optionally, said outlets are arranged in rows running parallel, or substantially parallel, with the front and rear external walls.

[0028] Preferably, the, or each, outlet comprises an aperture, preferably a covered aperture, and the or each aperture may be covered by a flap or a rupturable membrane.

[0029] Typically, said cover is formed from flexible material, for example plastics.

[0030] Typically, said front and rear external walls are formed from plastics, for example polycarbonate or acrylic, metal, for example steel or aluminium, or reinforced cardboard.

[0031] Preferably, the barrier structure further includes side walls extending between said front and rear walls, and said side walls may be formed of the same material as said front and rear external walls.

[0032] Optionally, said at least one internal wall is formed from plastics, for example PVC.

[0033] Optionally, said at least one intermediate wall is formed from plastics, for example polycarbonate or acrylic, metal, for example steel or aluminium, or reinforced cardboard.

[0034] Typically, said container is filled with liquid or gel.

[0035] Preferably, said cover is formed from a rupturable material, and / or includes at least one rupturable seam or other formation, and is configured to provide said at least one outlet upon rupturing of said rupturable material and / or of said at least one rupturable seam or other formation.

[0036] Optionally, said at least one internal wall comprises a respective aperture through which said at least one tie passes.

[0037] Optionally, said at least one tie is positioned to pass between adjacent strips, and wherein, optionally, a recess is provided in an edge of each strip, the respective recess of adjacent strips being aligned to provide an aperture through which a respective tie passes.

[0038] Typically, either one or both of said front and rear external walls is planar, or convex or concave. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0039] Figure 1 is an isometric view of a barrier structure embodying the present invention;

[0040] Figure 2 is an isometric view of a container, the container being part of the barrier structure of Figure 1 and 2a;

[0041] Figure 2a is an isometric view of an alternative barrier structure embodying the present invention;

[0042] Figure 3 is a plan view of the container of figure 1 ;

[0043] Figure 3a is a plan view of the container of Figure 2 and 2a;

[0044] Figure 4 is a side view of an internal wall, the internal wall being part of the barrier structure of Figure 1 , 2 or 2a;

[0045] Figure 5 is an isometric view of a tie for use with the barrier structure of Figure 1 , 2 or 2a;

[0046] Figure 6 is an isometric view of a rod for use with the barrier structure of Figure 1 or Figure 2a;

[0047] Figure 6a is an isometric view showing the internal of a barrier structure, with a magnified view of how the rods of figure 5 are incorporated;

[0048] Figure 7 is a plan view of the container of Figure 2 and 2a;

[0049] Figure 7a is a magnified view of outlets of a cover for use with the container of Figure 2 and 2a;

[0050] Figure 8 is a plan view of a base, the base being part of the barrier structure of Figure 1 , accompanied by a magnified view of the slots; and

[0051] Figure 8a is an isometric view of a base, the base being part of the barrier structure of Figure 2a.

[0052] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0053] Figure 1 is an isometric view of a barrier structure 10 embodying the present invention. The barrier structure 10 is configured to provide protection against the effects of blasts, explosions or the like and may be referred to as a blast screen. Typically, the barrier structure comprises container 16 and base 32. The barrier structure comprises a container 16 defined by a plurality of external walls.

[0054] Figure 2 is an exemplary diagram of container 16. In preferred embodiments, the container 16 comprises a front external wall 12, a rear external wall 14 and side external walls 15. Typically, the external walls define a container which is cuboidal or substantially cuboidal in shape. Preferably, length L of the front 12 and rear 14 external walls is greater than depth D2as defined by side walls 15 of container 16. Preferably, front 12 and rear 14 external walls are parallel or at least substantially parallel to each other. However, in alternative embodiments, the external walls may take any suitable shape, for example either or both front 12 and rear 14 external walls of container 16 may be convex, concave or planar. The distance between the front 12 and rear 14 external walls defines depth Di. In the exemplary embodiment of figure 2, depth D2is larger than the depth Di, such that the container 16 forms a serifed “I” shape in plan view of structure 10 in the deployed state. In other words, the container 16 has a respective foot portion of depth D2at each end of a main portion of depth Di, the foot portions preferably being perpendicular to the main portion in plan view in the deployed state. Said foot portions are configured to deflect shrapnel or the like back toward the explosion source, or to another barrier structure 10, such that the damage resulting from the explosion is localised or isolated to a limited area. In other preferred embodiments, however, depths Di and D2may be of the same, or substantially the same value, such as that shown in the embodiments of figure 1 and 3, which show the basic arrangement of the barrier structure 10, being of single depth Di = D2. In further alternative embodiments, container 16 may take a triangular, circular, or any suitable polygonal shape in plan view.

[0055] In preferred embodiments, container 16 forms the same or substantially the same shape as base 32 when viewed from above in the deployed state, such as shown in the exemplary embodiments of figures 1 , 2a, and 8, where both container 16 and base 32 form either a serifed “I” shape, or a rectangle. However, base 32 and container 16 may be of different shapes. For example, the base 32 may take a serifed “I” shape and the container 16 a rectangular shape. In alternative embodiments, the base 32 may take any suitable shape, for example, the base may be cuboidal, triangular, circular, or any shape which provides at least stability to structure 10 and support for container 16.

[0056] In preferred embodiments, the at least one of the plurality of external walls of container 16 are comprised of self-supporting material, such that they remain in the desired deployed state without requiring further means for supporting the container 16. Preferably, at least one of the plurality of external walls of container 16 is comprised of flexible, semi-rigid, and resilient material. These material properties mean that the external walls are configured to withstand a threshold level of force or pressure, which in turn depends on the type and thickness of the chosen material, before shattering. Further, said properties allow that the external walls possess some inherent elasticity, such that they are configured to flex inwardly toward the internal of barrier structure 10 in response to an explosion, as explained in further detail below. Preferably, at least front external wall 12 comprises a material which is flexible, semi-rigid, and resilient. Typically, both front 12 and rear 14 external walls comprise a material with said properties. Conveniently then, barrier structure 10 possesses a symmetry such that it provides equally effective protection from either the side of front external wall 12 or of rear external wall 14. Preferably, each of the plurality of external walls 12, 14, and 15, comprises material which is semi-rigid, flexible and resilient. In this manner, preferably, the external walls of container 16 form a single body to be inserted into base 32. However, in alternative embodiments, any and / or each of the external walls may comprise an individual unit to be separately inserted into base 32 to form container 16. In these alternative embodiments, there may be means for receiving and retaining each external wall. For instance, barrier structure 10 may comprise a frame extending at least partially from base 32 to top 18 of structure 10, or alternatively, any other suitable receiving and retention means.

[0057] Examples of materials which may be used for the external walls include, but are not limited to, acrylic, polycarbonate, toughened glass, aramid, Kevlar, corrugated or non-corrugated metal such as steel or aluminium, impregnated toughened glass, sheet metal, reinforced cardboard, ribbed metal, corrugated paper with inner water proofing or other suitable material. In preferred embodiments, container 16 is made of transparent material, to prevent visual obstruction of the surroundings. Optionally, the external walls may also be coated in a clear film to enhance safety. For instance, in the event of one or both of the external walls shattering, this film would prevent shards of material, comprising the external walls, from being projected into the surrounding area, by keeping the shards together. Optionally, this clear film may also allow for projection of images, such as advertisements or instructional videos, onto barrier structure 10.

[0058] The barrier structure 10, and the thickness of external walls, are sized suitably to the environment in which the structure 10 is deployed. The optimal size of the structure 10 is selected based on several factors, such as pedestrian traffic in the area, the size of the building or object for which structure 10 has been employed, and the likelihood of a threat, in the form of explosions or the like, in the area. For instance, the structure cannot be impracticably large such that it obstructs pathways or entrances, but must not be so small such that it fails to provide adequate blast mitigation. By way of example, if structure 10 were to be deployed in front of a government building or sports venue, i.e., where the building is large, but a lot of pedestrian traffic must be accommodated, exemplary dimensions of structure 10 suitable for this application may be a length (L) of 3m, a height (H) of 2.4m and a depth (Di) of 0.3m. Further, and advantageously, the user may also wish to employ the structure 10 as a means of crowd control, as well as a means for blast mitigation. This may be achieved by, for example, placing several barrier structures 10 side-by-side via external side walls 15, or by employing a single barrier structure with an accordingly longer length L, as well as a narrower depth Di, but thicker external walls, to accommodate pedestrians whilst providing sufficient protection from explosions. By way of example, the structure 10 may be configured to extend through the depth of a staircase which zigzags or spirals through a large venue, for instance, by having a height H of similar dimensions to the depth of the staircase. Optionally, in this implementation, handrails may be incorporated on the outside of the external walls 12, 14, 15 for use when ascending or descending the staircase. In this manner, the barrier structure 10 may act as a means of blast protection and crowd control. The structure 10 may be small enough to be placed next to an unknown, potentially dangerous, device, to allow Army Technical Officers (ATOs), for example, to approach the device for closer inspection.

[0059] Figure 3 is a plan view of container 16. Within the container 16 is at least one internal wall 20. Preferably, within container 16 is a plurality of internal walls 20. In preferred embodiments, each of the at least one internal walls 20 is parallel or at least substantially parallel to at least the front 12 and, optionally, rear 14 external wall. Typically, each of the at least one internal walls 20 are parallel or at least substantially parallel to each other. In typical embodiments, at least one of the internal walls 20 extends at least partially across length L of container 16. Typically, each of the at least one internal walls 20 is the same or substantially the same length L of container 16, as defined by the distance between side walls 15. However, in alternative embodiments, such as that shown in figure 3a, optionally, the internal 20 and intermediate 26 wall(s) may extend only to the foot portions of the container, for example. In typical embodiments, the at least one internal wall 20 extends at least partially through height H of container 16. Preferably, each of the least one internal walls 20 is the same or substantially the same height H as container 16.

[0060] In preferred embodiments, the plurality of internal walls 20 are equally spaced from each other through depth Di of container 16. Preferably, the plurality of internal walls 20 are arranged symmetrically about a plane which extends in parallel and centrally between the front 12 and rear 14 external walls. This preferred arrangement further enhances the symmetry making the barrier structure 10 an equally effective mitigant to explosions originating from either side of the barrier structure 10. In alternative embodiments, however, the internal walls 20 may be irregularly spaced between the external walls 12 and 14 and / or lack symmetry about the central plane. Said alternative embodiments may be more suited to environments where, for example, explosions are expected to originate from only one direction.

[0061] In preferred embodiments, each of the plurality of internal walls 20 comprises flexible material. In preferred embodiments, each of the plurality of internal walls 20 comprises flexible, non-resilient material. These material properties, and the chosen thickness of said material, mean that internal walls 20 are easily moveable towards the internal of container 16 in response to the inward flexing of an adjacent external wall, as explained in detail below. Further, these material properties mean that the internal walls 20 are not susceptible to tearing, and thus may act as a shield to shrapnel or projectiles resulting from an explosion, if the external wall facing the explosion, shatters. The internal walls 20 may comprise any, or a mixture of any, of the following exemplary materials: PVC, treated cardboard, corrugated metal, toughened glass, plastic sheets, cotton or canvas sheets, or any other suitable material. Preferably, internal walls 20 comprise transparent material such that the barrier structure does not create a visual obstruction.

[0062] In some embodiments, each of the at least one internal walls 20 comprises at least one strip 20A, preferably, a plurality of strips 20A, extending in a top-to-bottom direction of container 16 when barrier structure 10 is in a deployed state. Figure 4 is an exemplary diagram of an internal wall 20 comprising six strips 20A, but in alternative embodiments, each internal wall 20 may comprise any suitable number of strips 20A. In the exemplary embodiment of figure 4, each of the strips are of equal length Lssuch that the sum of the lengths is length L (ZLS=L), and are of equal height Hs, which is, preferably, the same, or substantially the same, as height H of the container 16. Alternatively, however, each of the strips may be of differing lengths and heights. By having each internal wall 20 comprise a plurality of strips 20A, the ability of each internal wall 20 to move in a localised manner is improved. In the exemplary embodiments of figures 2 and 2a, each of the plurality of strips 20A is rectangular in shape. However, in alternative embodiments, each of the plurality of strips 20A may take any suitable shape and need not all take the same shape.

[0063] The barrier structure typically includes means for maintaining the at least one internal wall 20 in the desired position within container 16, at least when barrier structure 10 is in a deployed state. In preferred embodiments, said means comprises one or more supporting structures extending between the front 12 and rear 14 external walls. Typically, said supporting structures comprise at least one tie 28, as shown in the exemplary diagram of figure 5, which extends within the container 16, as shown at least in figures 1 -2a. Preferably, said supporting means comprises a plurality of ties distributed through the container 16. Typically, in embodiments which have no intermediate wall 26, at least one tie 28 connects the front external wall 12 to an adjacent internal wall 20, at least one tie 28 connects adjacent internal walls 20 to each other, and at least one tie connects the rear 14 external wall to an adjacent internal wall 20. In embodiments with one or more intermediate walls 26, at least one tie 28 connects the front external wall 12 to an adjacent internal wall 20 or to an adjacent intermediate wall 26, at least one tie 28 connects adjacent internal walls 20 to each other, at least one tie connects intermediate walls 26 to adjacent internal walls 20, and at least one tie connects the rear 14 external wall to an adjacent internal wall 20 or to an adjacent intermediate wall 26. Preferably, said at least one tie 28 extends perpendicularly between the front external wall 12 and / or rear external wall 14 and / or intermediate walls 26 and / or internal walls 20. However, the ties 28 may extend at any angle suitable for upholding the internal walls 20.

[0064] Referring again to figure 5, preferably, each of the at least one ties 28 comprises means for adhering to the front external wall 12, and / or rear external wall 14, and / or intermediate wall(s) 26, and / or internal wall(s) 20. In preferred embodiments, said adhering means is in the form of feet 28a, which are joined by connecting limb 28b. In the exemplary diagram of figure 5, feet 28a take a substantially hemispherical shape. However, in alternative embodiments, feet 28a may be pyramidal, any take other suitable shape. Typically, each of the at least one ties 28 is fused or bonded, by feet 28a, to intermediate wall(s) 26, internal walls 20, and to the inside of the front 12 and rear 14 external walls by means of a suitable adhesive or bond. However, in alternative embodiments, the at least one tie 28 may form part of the container 16, extending from the walls, such that they comprise a single unit, or, for example, the ties 28 may extend through the external 12, 14 and / or intermediate 26 walls, with the attachment means located on and bearing against the outside of the container 16.

[0065] In preferred embodiments, the at least one tie 28 comprises material which is flexible and semi-rigid. Preferably, the at least one tie 28 comprises material which can flex when in compression, such as when the front 12 or rear 14 external wall flexes inwardly in response to an explosion, but remain rigid when in tension, such as when the structure 10 is in a rest state. Examples of suitable materials include, but are not limited to, wire, reinforced plastic or PVC. Such material properties mean that at least the internal wall(s) 20 are sufficiently supported, and can move freely through the container 16 when the barrier structure is in use.

[0066] Further, and advantageously, ties 28 also act as a means for maintaining the shape of the external walls, such that they are prevented from bowing or flexing outwardly in an undesired manner. However, in alternative embodiments, said means may take any suitable form, for example, container 16 may comprise lines, webbing or other structure(s) and which may be integrally formed with the container or fixed thereto, as is convenient.

[0067] In alterative embodiments, said means for maintaining the desire shape of the internal walls 20 holds or suspends each of the at least one internal walls 20 at top 18 of the structure 10, or at least at a height partially extending up height H of container 16, and is configured to receive a top portion of the internal wall 20. For example, said means may rod 22 in which a slot 24 is formed, the slot being configured to receive and hold the top portion of an internal wall 20, as in figure 6. In said embodiments, typically, each internal wall 20 is held by a corresponding rod 22. Alternatively, several or all of the plurality of internal walls 20 may be held by a single rod 22, or each strip 20A of internal walls 20 may be held by a respective rod 22 of the same or similar length. In further alternative embodiments, said securing means may take any other suitable form. Said securing means may be located, for example, along the side walls 15 or at the corners of container 16, or in any other suitable location. In alternative embodiments, the at least one tie 28 may be used in combination with the at least one rod 22. Alternatively, barrier structure 10 may comprise suspension lines or the like, extending in parallel to the front 12 and rear 14 external walls, over which internal walls 20 are draped. Optionally, barrier structure 10 may comprise tying means, whereby internal walls 20 are held by inserting one or more links into holes punctured in internal walls 20, said links typically being located at or adjacent to top 18 or sides 15 of container 16. Alternatively, the tying means may be in the form of one or more staples, pegs, clips, hoops or the like to secure and hold internal walls 20 in place, said tying means typically being located at or adjacent the top 18 or sides 15 of container 16.

[0068] In said embodiments, in which ties 28 do not act a means of suspension for the internal walls 20, the ties 28 are configured to pass through the internal walls 20, or optionally, between, said strips 20A. The internal walls 20 may comprise means for allowing the one or more strips 20A to move within container 16 unhindered by ties 28. Preferably, said means may comprise at least one aperture, slot, slit or other formation formed into the at least one internal wall 20 and / or the at least one strip 20A, each of said apertures aligning with the position of a respective tie 28 to provide a passage for the ties 28. In other embodiments, each of the at least one tie 28 is positioned to pass between adjacent strips 20A. Here, optionally, each of the at least one strips 20A may comprise recesses formed along its edges running parallel to height Hs, with the recesses of adjacent strips 20A aligning to form an aperture through which a respective tie 28 passes. In alternative embodiments, passages may be formed in any suitable manner, for example the at least one strip 20A may have a smaller length Lsat least partially along its height Hs, where, consequently, length Lsis sufficiently narrow at least at the location of the ties 28 to allow unhindered movement of the one or more strips 20A past the ties 28.

[0069] In these alternative embodiments, typically container 16 comprises a plurality of ties 28, and internal walls 20 a plurality of respective apertures or passages. Accordingly, where there is no intermediate wall 26, the one or more ties 28 connects at least the front 12 and rear 14 external walls together. In these alternative embodiments which also comprise an intermediate wall 26, at least one tie 28 connects the front external wall 12 to the intermediate wall 26, and at least one other tie connects the rear external wall 14 to the intermediate wall 26. In other embodiments in which there is more than one intermediate wall, there may be at least one tie 28 connecting the front external wall 12 to an adjacent intermediate wall, at least one tie connecting the rear external wall 14 to an adjacent intermediate walls 26, and at least one tie connecting adjacent intermediate walls 26 to each other.

[0070] In preferred embodiments, the plurality of ties 28 are spaced apart regularly throughout container 16, to provide uniform stability to structure 10. In the exemplary embodiments of figures 1 , 2 and 2a, there are thirty ties 28 which are arranged in three columns comprising ten ties 28, and five rows comprising six ties 28, with fifteen ties 28 connecting the front external wall 12 to the intermediate wall 26, and fifteen ties 28 connecting the intermediate wall 26 to the rear external wall 14. By arranging ties 28 in columns, strips 20A of internal walls 20 may conveniently be placed between said columns, such that the strips can move unimpeded by the ties when the structure is in use. However, in alternative embodiments, there may be any number of ties 28, and they may be arranged in any suitable fashion to allow unhindered movement of internal walls 20.

[0071] In preferred embodiments, each of the at least one internal walls 20 is releasably held in a deployed state. The barrier structure 10 typically includes means for releasably holding the internal walls 20 in the deployed state. Preferably, the holding means is located at the bottom of the container 16 and may be configured to releasably receive a bottom portion of the curtain. In this manner, each of the at least one internal walls 20 may move away from at least one of the front external wall 12 and rear external walls 14 when barrier structure 10 is in use, as explained in further detail below. Figure 6 is an exemplary diagram of said holding means. Preferably, the holding means comprises rod 22 in which slot 24 is formed, the slot being configured to releasably receive and retain a bottom portion of internal wall 20. In preferred embodiments, rod 22 is configured to releasably retain a bottom portion of internal wall 20 by means of a friction fit or by being configured to resiliently grip said portion. In alternative embodiments, the holding means may take any other suitable form, for example comprising one or more sacrificial or frangible tie connecting internal wall 20 to container 16, the, or each, tie typically being located at or adjacent the bottom of the container.

[0072] Figure 6a is an exemplary diagram of a manner in which the rods 22 may be incorporated into the barrier structure 10. In preferred embodiments, rod(s) 22 are located within container 16. By incorporating said means into the container 16, container 16 is liquid-tight. In alternative embodiments, however, the rod(s) 22 may be located within base 32. Preferably, each internal wall 20 is releasably held by a corresponding rod 22. However, in alternative embodiments, several or all of the internal walls 20 may be held by a single rod 22, or at least one strip 20A may be held by a single rod 22.

[0073] Referring back to the preferred embodiment of figure 3, within container 16 is at least one intermediate structure 26. In preferred embodiments, the at least one intermediate structure 26 is a wall positioned between the front 12 and rear 14 external walls. Preferably, the at least one intermediate wall 26 extends in parallel, or substantially parallel, to the front external wall 12, rear external wall 14 or the at least one internal wall 20, or at least in a side-to-side direction of the container 16. Typically, the at least one intermediate wall 26 extends in parallel, or substantially parallel, to the front external wall 12, rear external wall 14 and the at least one internal wall 20.

[0074] In preferred embodiments, intermediate wall 26 extends at least partially across length L and height H of container 16. Typically, intermediate wall 26 is the same or substantially the same height H and length L as the front 12 and rear 14 external walls. Preferably, intermediate wall 26 is formed as part of container 16 and extends from side wall 15 to side wall 15. However, in alternative embodiments, intermediate wall 26 may be a separate unit to be inserted into container 16 at least when barrier structure 10 is in a deployed state. In said alternative embodiments, barrier structure 10 may comprise means for receiving and retaining intermediate wall 26 in a deployed state. For example, side walls 15 may comprise protrusions on the internal side of container 16, said protrusions forming tracks into which intermediate wall 26 is received. Alternatively, base 32 may comprise a slot or recess into which the intermediate wall 26 may be separately inserted.

[0075] In preferred embodiments, the at least one intermediate wall 26 comprises flexible and resilient material. Preferably, intermediate wall 26 comprises flexible, resilient, semi-rigid material. Typically, intermediate wall 26 comprises material which is self-supporting. In preferred embodiments, intermediate wall 26 is formed of the same or at least substantially the same material as the external walls. Alternatively, the intermediate walls may be of the same material as internal walls 20 but of greater thickness. The at least one intermediate wall 26 may be acrylic, polycarbonate, toughened glass, aramid, Kevlar, corrugated or non-corrugated metal such as steel or aluminium, for example, impregnated toughened glass, sheet metal, reinforced cardboard, ribbed metal, or corrugated paper with inner water proofing, or any other suitable material.

[0076] In preferred embodiments, intermediate wall 26 is located centrally within container 16 such that it is an equal distance from the front 12 and rear 14 external walls. In embodiments where there is a plurality of intermediate walls 26, preferably intermediate walls 26 and internal walls 20 are arranged symmetrically about a plane extending in parallel and centrally between the front 12 and rear 14 external walls, conveniently with an intermediate wall 26 aligned with said central plane. This symmetrical arrangement again allows the structure 10 to provide equally effective protection from blasts originating in either direction about the central plane. However, in alternative embodiments, the at least one intermediate wall 26 may be arranged in a non-symmetrical manner about the central plane. For example, intermediate wall 26 may be placed closer to either the front 12 or rear 14 external wall, for instance, in environments where threats in the form of explosions or the like are expected to arise only from one direction and thus a non-symmetrical arrangement may be optimal. In preferred embodiments, there is: at least one internal wall 20 positioned between the front external wall 12 and an adjacent intermediate wall 26; at least one internal wall 20 positioned between the rear external wall 14 and an adjacent intermediate wall 26; and, in embodiments where there is more than one intermediate wall 26, at least one internal wall 20 positioned between adjacent intermediate walls 26 in container 16.

[0077] Top 18 of the barrier structure comprises at least one outlet 30. The arrangement is such that, during use, liquid or gel in container 16 is expelled from the container 16 through the outlet(s) 30. This expulsion may help to extinguish any fire caused by an explosion or the like, and / or provide a protective liquid wall. In preferred embodiments, top 18 comprises a plurality of outlets 30 distributed over top 18 of the container. Figure 7 is a plan view of container 16 of the exemplary embodiments of figures 2 and 2a. Preferably, said outlets 30 decrease in size from the edges (as defined by front 12, rear 14 and side 15 external walls), to the centre of top 18. In the exemplary diagram of figure 7a, plurality of outlets 30 comprise circular outlets of diameter d2 at the edges, and of smaller diameter di at the centre of top 18. However, in alternative embodiments, said outlets 30 may comprise any range of diameters or be of the same diameter, and may take any suitable shape. Exemplary dimensions of apertures suited to this application include, but are not limited to, diameters in the range of 2mm to 50mm, dependent on the structure they are employed to protect. Preferably, outlets 30 are arranged in rows which run in parallel, or substantially parallel, to the front 12 and / or rear 14 external walls. Typically, said at least one outlet 30 or preferably, plurality of outlets 30, is provided in cover 29 placed over top 18 of container 16. In preferred embodiments, said cover is formed of flexible, non-resilient material, such as plastics, but may be formed of any suitable material. Said cover may be pivoted at an end of top 18 of container 16, or may be a separate unit to be placed or rolled out on top of the container, or slid into tracks comprised on top 18 of the container. Preferably, each of the plurality of outlets 30 is in the form of an aperture punctured in cover 29. Optionally, each of said apertures is covered in a flap, or rupturable membrane. Conveniently, said flaps or membranes maintain the cleanliness of the liquid within container 16 by preventing detritus from entering container 16 when structure 10 is in a deployed state, but present little resistance to the expulsion of liquid when the structure is in use. In preferred embodiments, the flaps or membranes may comprise very thin rubber, or any other suitable material.

[0078] In preferred embodiments, the barrier structure 10 comprises a base 32, which provides support to the barrier structure 10 when deployed and optionally, means for attaching barrier structure 10 to the surface on which it is deployed. Figure 8 is a plan view of a preferred embodiment of the base 32.Typically, at least base 32 forms a rectangular or substantially rectangular shape in plan view when the structure is deployed. However, in alternative embodiments, such as that exemplified in figure 8a, the base may form a serifed “I” shape, in plan view when the structure is deployed. This alternative profile provides additional stability to the structure when in use, i.e., by reducing the possibility of the structure toppling forward or backward. The base 32 typically includes means for engaging with container 16, and in preferred embodiments, the at least one intermediate wall 26. Preferably, said engaging means is configured to receive a bottom portion of container 16. However, in alternative embodiments, barrier structure 10 may comprise a similar component to base 32, but that is configured to receive side external walls 15, such that the structure may be fixed to, for example, the vertical walls of a building, when deployed, rather than to the ground. In further alternative embodiments, the structure 10 may be supported via its top end in a deployed state, such that the bottom of the structure 10 is not in contact with the floor. This may be executed, for example, by projecting “limbs”, which extend vertically from the top end of side walls 15 when the structure is deployed. In this manner, the flow of water from top 18 of the structure is unimpeded.

[0079] Preferably, the means for receiving a bottom portion of the container comprises slots 32a and 32c for receiving the external walls of container 16 and typically, the at least one intermediate wall 26, respectively. Preferably, slot 32a and 32c take the same shape, or substantially the same shape as the bottom portion of the container 16 in plan view. Typically, the container 16 is engaged with the base 32 by means of one or more clamps, braces, vices, screws or the like. Conveniently, this means container 16 may be replaced after use or if damaged, while the base remains deployed. However, in alternative embodiments, the container 16 may be held in the base 32 by means of a suitable binder or adhesive. Alternatively, slots 32a and typically, 32c, may be configured to receive and fit with (e.g. by means of a friction fit) a bottom portion of the container 16. For instance, the slots may be shaped and dimensioned to receive and hold at least a lower portion of container 16 (which in turn, preferably, comprises intermediate wall 26) such that the slots provide sufficient support for the container alone.

[0080] In preferred embodiments, base 32 typically comprises means for releasably receiving the at least one internal wall 20. Preferably, as described above, container 16 comprises said receiving means, which in turn comprises rods 22 in which at least one slot 24 is formed, into which a respective internal wall is inserted. In said embodiments, base 32 may comprise at least one slot 32b for receiving and retaining a respective rod 22. Alternatively, a slot 32b may be configured to receive a plurality of rods 22. In said embodiments, rods 22 may be fixed in slots 32b by means of a suitable adhesive, or alternatively, clamps, vices or the like. In alternative embodiments, slots 32b may themselves act as slots 24, such that no rods 22 are required, and slots 24 are incorporated in base 32.

[0081] Typically, the base 32 comprises means for stabilizing the barrier structure 10. Preferably, the base 32 is configured such that the centre of gravity of barrier structure 10 is close to the surface on which the structure is deployed. In preferred embodiments, the base 32 may form a receptacle for a filling material such as concrete, silicon gel, water or the like. Typically, the base 32 would be partially filled with said filling material, such that slots 32a, b, c, d are of a certain depth within the base 32, meaning a sufficient portion of the container 16 may be inserted into the slots, to provide support to the container 16. The material comprising the base 32 may be chosen by the user to suit the application of the barrier structure 10. For instance, if the structure is intended to be a permanent / semi-permanent feature, concrete may be suitable as it provides long-term stability to the structure when deployed; however, if the structure 10 is to be employed as a temporary feature, a lighter material such as silicon gel may be more suitable to allow for ease of transport, implementation and removal. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the base 32 may comprise wheels on its underside to achieve the same. Advantageously, said embodiments may be easily implemented in scenarios involving bomb disposal, where the barrier structure is temporarily deployed to surround a potential explosive while it is being defused. Said embodiments may be in the form of a bottomless cube, whereby, for example, five containers 16 are joined together as sides of said cube, which is placed over the potential bomb to encapsulate it. Another exemplary implementation, in which the use of wheels may be advantageous, may be to surround, partially surround, a spokesperson. For instance, the person may be speaking inside a venue or outside a government building, and the barrier structures may be wheeled into position such that they act both as a means for protection and as a means for crowd control.

[0082] Optionally, the base 32 may comprise means for securing the structure 10 to the surface on which it deployed. Preferably, said securing means may be in the form of at least one fixing portion 32d. Said fixing portion 32d may comprise an aperture or threaded insert for receiving a nail or screw or the like to fasten the base 32 to the surface. In this manner, the venue, or other environment, in which the structure is deployed may comprise permanent receiving portions over which the fixing portions are placed, such that a fastener may be easily inserted and removed. Conveniently, this enhances the ability of the structure to be implemented on a temporary, semi-permanent or even permanent basis, and to be easily replaced after use. Alternatively, said means may be in the form of a suitable adhesive applied to the base 32 or surface or both, such that fixing portions 32d may not be necessary.

[0083] Optionally, the base 32 may comprise further means to allow ease of transport of the barrier structure 10. Conveniently, said means may comprise one or more recesses or passages 32e formed in the base 32, into which, for instance, the tines of a forklift, straps or the like may be inserted, as evident in the exemplary embodiment of figure 8a.

[0084] The following is an example of how the foregoing features operate in unison to form a structure which provides effective protection against explosions and the like. Container 16, at least, is filled, or substantially filled, with a liquid material such as water or gel with a sufficiently low viscosity. Barrier structure 10 is placed in a deployed state, such that either front 12 or rear 14 external wall is facing a direction in which a threat (for instance, an explosion or gunfire) is most likely to originate.

[0085] In the following example, front external wall 12 is facing in the direction of an explosion. However, due to the symmetrical nature of the structure in preferred embodiments, blast mitigation is equally effective no matter if it is the front or rear external wall facing the blast. In response to the explosion, front external wall 12 flexes inwardly toward an adjacent internal wall, 20. This motion forces liquid, for instance water, upwards to be expelled from top 18 of the structure via outlets 30 of diameter d2. Simultaneously, this inward flexing causes an adjacent internal wall 20 to be released from the holding means at base 32 and move backward (i.e., away from the explosion), toward either another adjacent internal wall 20, or intermediate wall 26, depending on the layout of structure 10 employed. This movement causes more water to expel from increasingly central rows of outlets 30. Continued backward movement of the internal walls causes expulsion of water from apertures 30 of smaller diameter, di in the central region of top 18. By virtue of this smaller aperture size, the liquid expelled from said apertures is at a greater velocity, and thus reaches a greater height, which in turn results in a larger “wall” of water than that expelled from apertures of diameter d2 upon initial deflection of the front external wall 12. Advantageously, this wall of water not only acts as a barrier to any burning projectiles which may fire above structure 10, but may also extinguish, or at least quench, any flames in front of the barrier structure. This significantly reduces the possibility of conflagration, and hence the difficulty faced by firefighters in attending to any remaining flames. Further, the motion of the external and internal walls absorbs energy from the explosion, meaning the barrier structure mitigates structural damage which would otherwise result in the building it has been employed to protect. Depending on the force exerted by the blast, intermediate wall 26 may also flex toward rear external wall 14, and cause the backward motion of internal walls 20 positioned between the intermediate wall and rear external wall 14, resulting in further expulsion of water. In some scenarios, the explosion or the like may be sufficiently forceful such that front external wall 12 shatters upon flexing inwardly. As a result, the backward movement of internal walls 20 may be curtailed, and less liquid expelled from top 18 of the structure. However, internal walls 20 are preferably formed from material which is not liable to shattering, and thus remains a barrier to projectiles, shrapnel, bullets and the like, and continues to absorb the energy of the blast. Further, even if liquid is not expelled from top 18, the shattering of front external wall 12 allows the liquid within container 16 to be released to quench fires in the immediate vicinity of the structure. Still further, advantageously, the presence of the at least one intermediate wall 26 allows that the structure may operate even when the front external wall has shattered. For instance, if the explosion is not an isolated event, and further blasts occur immediately after, intermediate wall 26 may act as front external wall 12, flexing inwardly to cause the backward movement of internal walls 20, and the expulsion of remaining liquid from top 18 between the intermediate wall and rear external wall 14. The foregoing is merely an example of the manner in which barrier structure 10 may be implemented. For example, barrier structure 10 may be in the form of a bottomless cube to be placed over a potential explosive. Alternatively, structure 10 may be utilised inside the walls of a building, for instance underground or in the ceiling, and thus prevent damage to adjacent floors. Still further, the barrier structure may be adapted to act as fuel containers in land, sea, or air-based vehicles.

[0086] The invention is not limited to the embodiments described herein but can be amended or modified without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . A barrier structure (10) comprising: a plurality of external walls defining a container (16) for receiving liquid, the container having a top (18) comprising at least one outlet, said external walls including a front external wall (12) and a rear external wall (14); and at least one internal wall (20) located in said container between said front external wall (12) and said rear external wall (14), wherein at least said front external (12) wall is formed from self- supporting, flexible, resilient material, and wherein said at least one internal wall (20) is movable towards or away from either one or both of said front (12) and rear (14) external walls.

2. The barrier structure of claim 1 , wherein either one or both of the front (12) and rear (14) external walls are formed from semi-rigid material.

3. The barrier structure of claim 1 or 2, wherein said front external wall (12), said rear external wall (14) and said at least one internal wall (20) are parallel, or substantially parallel, with each other, and / or wherein said at least one internal wall comprises a plurality of internal walls that are preferably parallel with each other.

4. The barrier structure of any preceding claim, wherein said at least one internal wall (20) is made from flexible material, preferably non-resilient material, optionally wherein said at least one internal wall (20) is formed from plastics, for example PVC.

5. The barrier structure of any preceding claim, wherein said at least one internal walls comprises a single sheet of material.

6. The barrier structure of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein said at least one internal wall (20) comprises a plurality of strips (20A) extending in a top-to-bottom direction of the container (16).

7. The barrier structure of claim 1 , wherein said at least one internal wall (20) is suspended in the container (16), and wherein, optionally, said at least one internal wall (20) is suspended via at least one supporting structure, and / or other suspension means, and wherein, optionally, said at least one supporting structure and / or suspension means is configured to suspend said at least one internal wall directly or indirectly from any one or more of said external walls, said top, a cover or other structure located at the top of the container or the top of the barrier structure, and / or a bottom of the container.

8. The barrier structure of any preceding claim, wherein said at least one internal wall is releasably held in a deployed state, optionally by retaining means (22) located in the container (16), conveniently at a bottom of the container (16), said retaining means being configured to releasably receive or engage with a portion of, conveniently a bottom portion of, said at least one internal wall (20).

9. The barrier structure of claim 8, wherein the retaining means (22) comprises a rod or other retaining structure in which a slot (24) is formed, said slot being configured to releasably retain said portion of said at least one internal wall, optionally by means of a friction fit or by being configured to resiliently grip said portion.

10. The barrier structure of any preceding claim, wherein at least one intermediate wall (26) is located in said container between the front (12) and rear (14) external walls, said at least one intermediate wall being formed from flexible, resilient material, preferably semi-rigid material, optionally wherein said at least one intermediate wall (26) is formed from plastics, for example polycarbonate or acrylic, metal, for example steel or aluminium, or reinforced cardboard, wherein preferably said at least one intermediate wall (26) extends parallel, or substantially parallel, with the front (12) and rear (14) external walls, and / or with said at least one internal wall (20), or otherwise in a side-to-side direction of the container (16).1 1 . The barrier structure of claim 10, wherein at least a respective one of said at least one internal wall (20) is located between any one or more of: the front external wall (12) and said at least one intermediate wall (26); the rear external wall (14) and said at least one intermediate wall (26); and adjacent instances of said at least one intermediate wall (26).

12. The barrier structure of any preceding claim, further including at least one tie (28) connecting said front (12) external wall to said rear (14) external wall or to an adjacent internal wall (20), or connecting either one of said front external wall and said rear external wall to an intermediate structure in said container (16), and / or connecting said front (12) external wall to an adjacent internal wall (20), and / or adjacent internal walls (20) to each other, and / or said intermediate structure to one or more adjacent internal walls (20).

13. The barrier structure of any preceding claim when dependent on claim 7, wherein said supporting structures and / or said suspension means comprise at least one tie (28) connecting said front (12) external wall to an adjacent internal wall (20), and / or adjacent internal walls (20) to each other, and / or said intermediate structure to one or more adjacent internal walls (20), and / or and said rear (14) external wall to an adjacent internal wall (20) and / or said intermediate structure.

14. The barrier structure of claim 12 or 13, wherein said at least one tie (28) extends perpendicularly between the front external wall (12), internal walls (20), intermediate structure, and / or rear external wall (14), and / or perpendicularly between said front external wall (12) and said intermediate structure or between said rear external wall (14) and said intermediate structure.

15. The barrier structure of any one of claims 12 to 14, when dependent on claims 10 or 11 , wherein said intermediate structure is said at least one intermediate wall (26), and preferably wherein said at least one tie (28) is formed from flexible material, preferably semi-rigid material, and is preferably held in tension.

16. The barrier structure of any preceding claim, wherein said at least one outlet is provided in a cover (29) that covers the top (18) of the container, preferably wherein said cover (29) includes a plurality of spaced apart outlets (30) distributed over the top of the container, optionally wherein said outlets (30) decrease in size from the front or rear edges of the top to the centre of the top.

17. The barrier structure of claim 16, wherein said outlets (30) are arranged in rows running parallel, or substantially parallel, with the front (12) and rear (14) external walls.

18. The barrier structure of any preceding claim, wherein the, or each, outlet comprises an aperture, preferably a covered aperture, and wherein the or each aperture may be covered by a flap or a rupturable membrane.

19. The barrier structure of any one of claims 16 to 18 , wherein said cover (29) is formed from flexible material, for example plastics.

20. The barrier structure of any preceding claim, wherein said front (12) and rear (14) external walls are formed from plastics, for example polycarbonate or acrylic, metal, for example steel or aluminium, or reinforced cardboard, and optionally wherein either one or both of said front (12) and rear (14) external walls is planar, or convex or concave.21 . The barrier structure of any preceding claim, further including side walls (15) extending between said front and rear walls, and wherein said side walls may be formed of the same material as said front (12) and rear (14) external walls.

22. The barrier structure as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein said container (16) is filled with liquid or gel.

23. The barrier structure of claim 16, and any one of claims 17 to 22 when dependent on claim 16, wherein said cover (29) is formed from a rupturable material, and / or includes at least one rupturable seam or other formation, and is configured to provide said at least one outlet upon rupturing of said rupturable material and / or of said at least one rupturable seam or other formation.

24. The barrier structure of any one of claims 12 to 15, wherein said at least one internal wall (20) comprises a respective aperture through which said at least one tie (28) passes.

25. The barrier structure of any one of claims 12 to 15, when dependent on claim 6, wherein said at least one tie (28) is positioned to pass between adjacent strips, and wherein, optionally, a recess is provided in an edge of each strip, the respective recess of adjacent strips being aligned to provide an aperture through which a respective tie (28) passes.

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