Base member and impact absorbing post for impact at low height

Abstract

The current invention relates to a base member (2) for mounting an impact absorbing post (1) on a surface, comprising a bottom plate (6) and a hollow connection profile (5) for connecting a primary impact member (4) to the base member (2), wherein the connection profile (5) is firmly fixed to the bottom plate (6) and extends substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate (6), wherein the connection profile (5) comprises at the free end lips (14), wherein the lips (14) extend substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate (6) and wherein the lips (14) are spaced around a circumference of the free end (8). The invention also relates to an impact absorbing post (1), a kit and a method for assembling the impact absorbing post (1).

Description

[0001] BASE MEMBER AND IMPACT ABSORBING POST FOR IMPACT AT LOW HEIGHT

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates to a base member for mounting an impact absorbing post on a surface, more specifically for mounting an impact absorbing post for impact collision protection at low height. The present invention also relates to such an impact absorbing post, a method, and a kit for assembling the impact absorbing post and to a use of the impact absorbing post and / or the method and / or the kit for collision protection resilient to an impact of at least 3 kJ at a height of at most 400 mm.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Impact absorbing posts for collision protection are known and are especially used to reduce the risk of harm to humans or to avoid damage to infrastructure or valuable goods. Such impact posts are for instance used in parking lots, warehouses, or industrial facilities, where you have mixed traffic of vehicles and humans or where you have heavy duty vehicles, such as forklift trucks or lorries, that could cause substantial damage to a building, to infrastructure or stored goods.

[0006] A known impact absorbing post has a metal base member, on which a vertical tube is bolted. The tube surrounds the metal base member. The tube is made from an elastically deformable material. However, this type of impact absorbing posts is not suited for absorbing a high energy impact, for instance an impact of more than 2.5 kJ. During collision the tube bents and the metal base member cuts in the tube at the side of the impact, damaging the tube. Cutting the tube by the metal of the base member can be avoided by placing the tube inside the metal base member. However, this causes another problem, being that at an impact of more than 2.5 kJ the tube buckles at the side opposite to the impact. A further problem with both impact absorbing posts is that high tensions occur in the tube around the bolts, resulting in further damage and very often in a failure of the impact absorbing post.

[0007] BE2022 / 5333 discloses a high energy impact absorbing post. A particular embodiment of such high energy impact absorbing post comprises a primary impact member, an outer impact member, a first inner impact member and an anti-buckling member. The impact absorbing post is suited for absorbing impacts with an energy of at least 14 kJ up to a level of at least 700 mm above the surface. The impact absorbing post will not buckle or be cut by the metal base member. However, in some applications it is only required to protect against impact with lower energy at lower height. For instance, it is very well possible that only midsize forklift trucks are present inside a warehouse. These forklift trucks will hit the impact absorbing post at a height of at most 400 mm with an energy that is around 3 kJ. The impact absorbing post is over dimensioned and too expensive due to the ability to withstand a high impact energy of at least 14 kJ up to a level of at least 700 mm above the surface. BE2022 / 5333 also discloses a simpler variant of the impact absorbing post, comprising a primary impact member and only a single inner impact member. Such impact absorbing post is suited for absorbing impacts with an energy of at least 3 kJ up to a level of at least 300 mm above the surface. Although this impact absorbing post is much simpler and more cost effective, it still comprises two hollow profiles made from a polymer. There is a need to further simplify the construction of an impact absorbing post for impact at low height.

[0008] GB2522275 describes a barrier system comprising posts and rails connected by couplings. The barrier system comprises a foot plate for connection to a post. The foot plate comprises a body including ground anchor fixing points. The body includes a generally cylindrical part that up stands from a base and is inserted into the post. Once inserted, pins are inserted through the apertures on the post, the slots in the base plate and so that parts of the pins extend between the post and base plate at four positions. It should be noted that the upper portion of the cylindrical component comprises several rigid ribs, designed to remain inflexible and resistant to bending.

[0009] The present invention aims to resolve at least some of the problems and disadvantages mentioned above.

[0010] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] In a first aspect, the current invention relates to a base member for mounting an impact absorbing post on a surface according to claim 1.

[0012] The lips at the free end of the connection profile are advantageous for increasing the stiffness of an impact absorbing post near the base member. This avoids a large elongation of a primary impact member on impact around a connecting member with which the primary impact member is attached to the connection profile of the base member. At the same time free spaces between the lips allow the primary impact member to stretch more at the location of these free spaces. A bigger part of the surface of the primary impact member is stretched, spreading tensions more evenly in the primary impact member and reducing a maximum strain in the primary impact member on impact. The risk of the primary impact member rupturing on impact is significantly reduced with a base member according to the first aspect.

[0013] Preferred embodiments of the base member are shown in any of the claims 2 to 11.

[0014] A specific preferred embodiment relates to a base member according to claim 4.

[0015] An equal profile in opposite directions for the tops of the lips and the valleys between the lips is advantageous for having a gradual distribution of tensions in the connection profile and more importantly a gradual distribution of tensions in the primary impact member. This is additionally beneficial because it simplifies the production of the connection profile. The connection profile can be obtained by cutting the profile of the lips into a longer profile, resulting in two shorter connection profiles. In this way, material loss during production is minimized.

[0016] In a second aspect, the current invention relates to an impact absorbing post according to claim 12.

[0017] The impact absorbing post is advantageous because due to the use of a base member according to the first aspect, it can withstand impact of at least 3 kJ at a low height without rupture. Additionally beneficial is that the impact absorbing post has a minimal number of components, making it a very cost-efficient solution and simple to produce.

[0018] Preferred embodiments of the impact absorbing post are shown in any of the claims 13 to 16.

[0019] In a third aspect, the present invention relates to a method according to claim 17.

[0020] This method is very beneficial because it provides an impact absorbing post that can withstand impact of at least 3 kJ at a low height without failure of the impact absorbing post. The impact absorbing post remains firmly fixed to the surface, without damaging the surface. This method is additionally beneficial because it only requires a minimal number of components to assemble the impact absorbing post.

[0021] A preferred embodiment of the method is shown in the claim 18.

[0022] In a fourth aspect the present invention relates to a kit according to claim 19.

[0023] The kit is beneficial because it allows to assemble an impact absorbing post with a minimal number of components that can withstand impact of at least 3 kJ at a low height.

[0024] In a fifth aspect the present invention relates to a use according to claim 20.

[0025] The use as described herein provides an advantageous effect that a collision protection can be provided that is resilient to an impact of at least 3 kJ at low height with a minimal number of components.

[0026] DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0027] Figure 1 shows an impact absorbing post according to the prior art after impact.

[0028] Figure 2 shows another impact absorbing post according to the prior art after impact.

[0029] Figure 3 shows yet another impact absorbing post according to the prior art during impact, suited for absorbing high impact energy at both low and high height.

[0030] Figure 4 shows the distribution of strain in an impact absorbing post according to the prior art during impact at low height.

[0031] Figure 5 shows the distribution of strain in another impact absorbing post according to the prior art during impact at low height.

[0032] Figure 6 shows an impact absorbing post according to an embodiment of the current invention.

[0033] Figure 7 shows the distribution of strain in the impact absorbing post of Figure 6 during impact at low height. Figure 8 shows an impact absorbing post according to an alternative embodiment of the current invention.

[0034] Figures 9A and 9B show an impact absorbing post according to another alternative embodiment of the current invention.

[0035] Figure 10 show an impact absorbing post according to another alternative embodiment of the current invention.

[0036] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0037] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in disclosing the invention, including technical and scientific terms, have the meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. By means of further guidance, term definitions are included to better appreciate the teaching of the present invention.

[0038] As used herein, the following terms have the following meanings:

[0039] "A", "an", and "the" as used herein refers to both singular and plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. By way of example, "a compartment" refers to one or more than one compartment.

[0040] "Comprise", "comprising", and "comprises" and "comprised of" as used herein are synonymous with "include", "including", "includes" or "contain", "containing", "contains" and are inclusive or open-ended terms that specifies the presence of what follows e.g. component and do not exclude or preclude the presence of additional, non-recited components, features, element, members, steps, known in the art or disclosed therein.

[0041] Furthermore, the terms first, second, third and the like in the description and in the claims, are used for distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily for describing a sequential or chronological order, unless specified. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and that the embodiments of the invention described herein are capable of operation in other sequences than described or illustrated herein. The recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numbers and fractions subsumed within that range, as well as the recited endpoints.

[0042] Whereas the terms "one or more" or "at least one", such as one or more or at least one member(s) of a group of members, is clear per se, by means of further exemplification, the term encompasses inter alia a reference to any one of said members, or to any two or more of said members, such as, e.g., any >3, >4, >5, >6 or >7 etc. of said members, and up to all said members.

[0043] Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment but may. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to a person skilled in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments. Furthermore, while some embodiments described herein include some, but not other features included in other embodiments, combinations of features of different embodiments are meant to be within the scope of the invention, and form different embodiments, as would be understood by those in the art. For example, in the following claims, any of the claimed embodiments can be used in any combination.

[0044] In the context of this document, extending substantially perpendicular to a plane, for instance a surface or a plate, means that the angle between a direction wherein something extends to the plane and the plane is 90° ± 15°, preferably 90° ± 10°, more preferably 90° ± 5° and even more preferably 90° ± 3°.

[0045] In the context of this document, substantially parallel means that two directions make an angle of at most 15°, preferably at most 10°, more preferably at most 5° and even more preferably at most 3°.

[0046] In the context of this document, substantially horizontal means that an element makes an angle with a perfectly horizontal plane of at most 15°, preferably at most 10°, more preferably at most 5° and even more preferably at most 3°. In the context of this document, when referring to the energy that an impact absorbing post can withstand, the impact absorbing post has been tested according to the standard PAS13:2017.

[0047] In the context of this document, impact at low height is an impact at a level of at most 400 mm above a surface whereon an impact absorbing post is installed.

[0048] In the context of this document, impact at high height is an impact at a level of at least 500 mm above a surface whereon an impact absorbing post is installed.

[0049] In the context of this document, strain is elongation, deformation or change in the dimensions of a body as the result of applied stress, expressed either as a relative unit change, or as a percentage.

[0050] In the context of this document, a lip is a projecting edge. It is an extended part of the connection profile at the free end, oriented substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate and arranged around the circumference of the free end.

[0051] In a first aspect, the invention relates to a base member for mounting an impact absorbing post on a surface.

[0052] The base member comprises a bottom plate and a hollow connection profile for connecting a primary impact member to the base member. Preferably the hollow connection profile is suited for connecting the primary impact member to the base member using one or more connecting members. Alternatively, the hollow connection profile is suited for connecting the primary impact member to the base member by pressing the primary impact member on the hollow connection profile. It is clear that the hollow connection profile can be suited for both connecting the primary impact member to the base member using one or more connecting members and for connecting the primary impact member to the base member by pressing the primary impact member on the hollow connection profile.

[0053] A primary impact member has to be understood in this context as a hollow profile extending substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate, that forms a most outer surface of an impact absorbing post. Non-limiting examples of connecting members are screws, bolts, bolts and nuts, rivets, wedges, connection tubes, ... The base member is preferably made of metal, more preferably steel. The bottom plate is intended to be placed with one side on the surface. The surface is for instance a concrete floor of a warehouse or an asphalt surface of a parking lot. The bottom plate comprises holes for attaching the base member to the surface by using bolts, screws, anchors, or other suitable means. The bottom plate comprises at least four holes, preferably at least five holes and more preferably at least six holes. The holes are preferably equally distributed around the center of the bottom plate. Optionally, the bottom plate comprises an extra hole in the center to avoid plastic deformation of the bottom plate during impact. The connection profile is firmly fixed to the bottom plate. Preferably the connection profile is welded to the bottom plate. The connection profile extends along a longitudinal direction. The connection profile extends substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate. This means that the longitudinal direction of the connection profile is substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate and when installed on a surface substantially perpendicular to the surface. The connection profile is a hollow profile.

[0054] In a preferred embodiment the connection profile has a free end. This is the end of the connection profile that is not attached to the bottom plate. The connection profile comprises at the free end lips. The lips extend substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate. This means that the lips point away from the bottom plate. The lips are preferably an integral part of the connection profile. The lips are spaced around a circumference of the free end of the connection profile. Preferably, the lips are evenly spaced around the circumference of the free end of the connection profile. Preferably all lips are equal. Between every two lips is a free space. In case all lips are equal, preferably all free spaces between two lips are equal. Preferably the number of lips is at least two, more preferably at least three, even more preferably at least four, just even more preferably at least five, and most preferably at least six.

[0055] The applicant established that a length of a connection profile with a regular crosssection and without lips is an important factor for the impact energy that can be withstood on impact at low height. When the length of the connection profile is too short for an impact of a certain energy, a primary impact member attached to the base member will elongate the most around the holes through which the connecting members are mounted. High tensions occur in the primary impact member around the connecting members, often resulting in a failure of the impact absorbing post. When the length of the connection profile is increased, the primary impact member will deform less at a bottom end, so near the bottom plate of the base member. It is as if the primary impact member is stiffer at the bottom end due to the longer length of the connection profile. The primary impact member will stretch less around the holes through which the connecting members are mounted but must deform more starting from the free end of the connection profile in order to absorb the same impact energy. When the length of the connection profile is too long, very high tension will occur in the primary impact member near the free end of the connection profile. The free edge of the connection profile cuts in the primary impact member, damaging it and likely results in failure of the impact absorbing post. Depending on the impact energy, an optimal length for the connection profile could be determined.

[0056] The applicant found surprisingly that the lips at the free end of the connection profile are advantageous for increasing the stiffness of an impact absorbing post near the base member, consequently avoiding a large elongation of a primary impact member on impact around connecting members with which the primary impact member is connected to the connection profile of the base member, while at the same time the free spaces between the lips allow the primary impact member to stretch more at the location of these free spaces. A bigger part of the surface of the primary impact member is stretched, spreading tensions more evenly in the primary impact member and reducing a maximum strain in the primary impact member on impact, especially near the free end of the connection profile. The risk of the primary impact member rupturing on impact is significantly reduced. The effect that a bigger part of the surface of the primary impact member is stretched on impact is also very beneficial to reduce the risk on rupture in case the primary impact member is pressed on the base member.

[0057] The applicant found surprisingly that an impact absorbing post attached to a surface with a base member according to the current invention also increases the impact energy that the impact absorbing post can withstand to up to 40%. This will be discussed later in this document.

[0058] Additionally beneficial is that the lips are bendable on impact, avoiding the connection profile cutting at its free end in the primary impact member.

[0059] In a preferred embodiment the lips have a top that narrows gradually. This is advantageous to obtain a lip that becomes stiffer closer to a main body of the connection profile. This results in a more fluent transition from zones with relative low strain to zones with relative high strains. On impact, the primary impact member attached to the base member will bend and consequently the lips will also bend. The further the primary impact member bends, the more stiffer the lips are. The lips therefore function as a damper. Preferably, the top is rounded or has an end that is substantially parallel with the bottom plate. This is beneficial to avoid the top is spiky and would pierce or cut the primary impact member on impact.

[0060] In a preferred embodiment, there is a valley between every two lips. The valley corresponds with the free space between two lips. The valley narrows gradually. This is advantageous to obtain a lip that becomes stiffer closer to a main body of the connection profile. This results in a more fluent transition from zones with relative low strain to zones with relative high strains. This embodiment is especially beneficial in combination with the previously described embodiment wherein the lips have a top that narrows gradually.

[0061] In a further embodiment, the top of the lips and the valley have an equal profile oriented in opposite directions. The opposite directions are substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate. An equal profile in opposite directions for the tops of the lips and the valleys between the lips is advantageous for having a gradual distribution of tensions in the connection profile and more importantly a gradual distribution of tensions in the primary impact member. This is additionally beneficial because it simplifies the production of the connection profile. The connection profile can be obtained by cutting the profile of the lips into a longer profile, resulting in two shorter connection profiles. In this way, material loss during production is minimized.

[0062] In a preferred embodiment, the connection profile has a circular cross-section in a plane parallel to the bottom plate. Preferably the connection profile is made of a metal cylindrical hollow tube. The lips have a length measured in a direction perpendicularly from the bottom plate of at least 20% of an outer diameter of the circular cross-section. The length of the lips is measured from a lowest point, so closest to the bottom plate in a free space between two lips, to the top of a lip.

[0063] To absorb a higher impact energy, it is required to have a primary impact member with a bigger diameter. Consequently, a connection profile with a bigger outer diameter is also needed to attach the primary impact member to the base member. In order to allow a sufficient stretch of the primary impact member and to obtain a good spread of the tensions in the primary impact member and to limit the maximum strain, it is required to have lips with a minimum length. The lips should have a length of at least 20% of the outer diameter of the circular cross-section, preferably at least 22%, more preferably at least 24%, even more preferably at least 26% and most preferably at least 28%.

[0064] In a further embodiment the lips have a length measured in the direction perpendicularly from the bottom plate of at most 46% of the outer diameter of the circular cross-section, preferably at most 44%, more preferably at most 42%, even more preferably at most 40% and most preferably at most 38%. Lips with a length of more than 46% of the outer diameter of the circular cross-section do not substantially contribute to absorbing impact energy, because these longer lips will bend more easily due to increased torsional forces.

[0065] In an alternative further embodiment the lips have a length measured in the direction perpendicularly from the bottom plate of at most 90% of the outer diameter of the circular cross-section. The lips have a length of at least 65% of the outer diameter of the circular cross-section. The number of lips of the base member is two. The hollow connection profile has a length that is preferably at most 20% of the length of the lips. The length of the connection profile is measured in a direction perpendicularly to the bottom plate from the bottom plate to a lowest point, so closest to the bottom plate, in a free space between two lips. Preferably the lips and the free spaces between the lips have an equal width.

[0066] Preferably the lips have a length of at most 85%, more preferably at most 80%.

[0067] Preferably the lips have a length of at least 65%, more preferably at least 70% and even more preferably at least 75%.

[0068] The length of the connection profile is more preferably at most 17% of the length of the lips, even more preferably at most 14% and at most preferably at most 10%.

[0069] This embodiment is especially beneficial for mounting impact absorbing posts on a surface, wherein the impact absorbing posts are connected by a substantially horizontal crossbar. The substantially horizontal crossbar functions as a substantially horizontal impact barrier for absorbing impact at low height. The applicant noticed that due to the presence of the substantially horizontal crossbar, it suffices to have only two lips with a long length in comparison to the diameter of the circular crosssection and a hollow connection profile with a very limited length. The substantially horizontal crossbar increases the stiffness of the impact absorbing posts. The presence of only two lips increases the surface were the impact absorbing post can deform, spreading tensions in the primary impact member and reducing the change of tearing or buckling of the impact absorbing post.

[0070] In a preferred embodiment the lips have a top. The top is at a distance perpendicularly from the bottom plate of at least 130 mm, preferably at least 140 mm, more preferably at least 145 mm, even more preferably at least 150 mm and most preferably at least 155 mm. The top is at a distance perpendicularly from the bottom plate of at most 210 mm, preferably at most 200 mm, more preferably at most 195 mm, even more preferably at most 190 mm and most preferably at most 185 mm.

[0071] This embodiment is especially advantageous for mounting an impact absorbing post on a surface intended for collision protection with a forklift truck. The point of impact of a forklift truck is considered to be at a level of 300 mm above a surface.

[0072] To absorb impact energy at low height, it is required to have, as described before, a longer connection profile to limit elongations of the primary impact member around holes through which the connecting members are mounted. A lip with a top at a distance measured perpendicularly from the bottom plate of at least 130 mm is sufficient to avoid these holes rupture on impact. A bigger distance between the top of the lips and the bottom plate has a similar effect as a longer connection profile. When the top of the lips is at a distance measured perpendicularly from the bottom plate of more than 210 mm, very high tensions will occur in the primary impact member at the top of the lips. This could cause rupture of the primary impact member, and failure of the impact absorbing post.

[0073] This embodiment is especially advantageous in combination with previously described embodiments wherein the length of the lips is defined.

[0074] In a preferred embodiment, the connection profile comprises two pairs of opposite slotted holes for receiving connecting members. A line through a first pair of opposite slotted holes is perpendicular to a line through a second pair of opposite slotted holes. A slotted hole is advantageous to reduce tensions around the connecting members on impact because the connecting members are able to move during a collision. Two substantially perpendicular pairs of slotted holes are advantageous to have a balanced distribution of the energy of the impact over the connecting members, independent of a direction from where an impact originates. The slotted holes have a length of from 6 mm up to 12 mm, preferably from 7 mm to 11 mm, more preferably from 8 mm to 10 mm.

[0075] In an alternative embodiment, the connection profile comprises two pairs of opposite slotted holes for receiving connecting members. A line through a first pair of opposite slotted holes is parallel to a line through a second pair of opposite slotted holes. Both the line through the first pair of opposite slotted holes and through the second pair of opposite slotted holes are through two opposite lips.

[0076] A slotted hole is advantageous to reduce tensions around the connecting members on impact because the connecting members are able to move during a collision. This embodiment is especially beneficial in combination with a previous described embodiment, wherein the lips have a length measured in the direction perpendicularly from the bottom plate of at least 65% and at most 90% of the outer diameter of the circular cross-section. This embodiment comprises a hollow connection profile with a limited length, insufficient two receive two pairs of connecting members.

[0077] In a further or alternative embodiment, each lip comprises a top wherein said tops of the lips are interconnected by means of a ring. This configuration offers several advantages, particularly in facilitating an easier installation of the outer impact member. By interconnecting the tops of the lips with a ring, outwards overbending or an unwanted outwards deformation is minimized. Because the lips are connected at the top, they will no longer fold outward unwanted. The lips remain upright which will make mounting smoother because no lip will interfere with the mounting of the outer impact member. The ring ensures that all the lips stay together. This makes it easier to install the outer impact member onto the base member, as this configuration prevents unwanted bending of the lips, facilitating a smoother mounting process without interfering with the placement of the outer impact member. Additionally, the interconnected arrangement provides enhanced structural integrity, improved load distribution, increased durability, contributing to the overall effectiveness and convenience of the collision protection system. The lips are connected at a first end to the free end of the connection profile and at a second end to the ring. This arrangement results in the formation of a hole in the connection profile between the two lips.

[0078] Preferably, the ring is an integral part of the connection profile. Incorporating the ring as an integral component of the connection profile brings several notable advantages. Firstly, it streamlines the manufacturing process by simplifying the assembly, as there's no need to separately fabricate and attach the ring. This integration also bolsters the structural integrity of the base member, contributing to its overall stability and longevity. Furthermore, integrating the ring reduces the likelihood of detachment or failure during use, ensuring that the interconnected lips remain securely in place. This promotes a reliable and durable support system for the installation of the outer impact member.

[0079] Preferably, the ring is provided parallel to the bottom plate. This ensures that the load or force applied to the lips is evenly distributed along the length of the ring, preventing localized stress concentrations and promoting uniform support for the outer impact member.

[0080] Preferably, the ring is integrated into the connection profile and positioned farthest from the bottom plate.

[0081] Preferably, the ring has an outer diameter that is equal to or maximal 10% smaller, preferably maximal 5% smaller and even more preferably maximal 1% smaller than the outer diameter of the connection profile, most preferably matching it exactly.

[0082] In a second aspect, the invention relates to an impact absorbing post for collision protection.

[0083] The impact absorbing post comprises a base member for mounting the impact absorbing post on a surface, and a primary impact member for absorbing an impact of a collision. The base member comprises a bottom plate and a hollow connection profile. The base member is according to the first aspect of the invention.

[0084] The primary impact member is a hollow profile made from a polymer, preferably a polyolefin, such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) and polybutylene (PB), and more preferably polypropylene (PP). The primary impact member extends in a longitudinal direction. The primary impact member extends substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate. This means that the longitudinal direction of the connection profile and the longitudinal direction of the primary impact member are substantially parallel.

[0085] The connection profile is placed inside the primary impact member. Consequently, the connection profile cannot be impacted directly during a collision. The connection profile is protected by the primary impact member against collision. The primary impact member is connected to the connection profile by use of one or more connecting members. Non-limiting examples of connecting members are screws, bolts, bolts and nuts, rivets, wedges, connection tubes, ... Alternatively, the primary impact member is connected to the connection profile by pressing the primary impact member on the connection profile. It is clear that the primary impact member can be connected to the connection profile by both using one or more connecting members and by pressing the primary impact member on the connection profile.

[0086] The impact absorbing post is advantageous due to the use of a base member according to the first aspect, it can withstand impact of at least 3 kJ at a low height without rupture. Additionally beneficial is that the impact absorbing post has a minimal number of components, making it a very cost-efficient solution and simple to produce.

[0087] In a preferred embodiment the impact absorbing post comprises at least one outer impact member. The at least one outer impact member is a hollow profile made from a polymer, preferably a polyolefin, such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) and polybutylene (PB), and more preferably polypropylene (PP). The material may be different from or the same as the material from which the primary impact member is made. Preferably the material is the same as the material from which the primary impact member is made. This is beneficial when recycling the impact absorbing post. The at least one outer impact member extends in a longitudinal direction. The at least one outer impact member extends substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate. This means that the longitudinal direction of the connection profile, the longitudinal direction of the primary impact member and the longitudinal direction of the at least one outer impact member are substantially parallel. The at least one outer impact member has a shorter length than the primary impact member. Said lengths are measured perpendicularly from the bottom plate to respectively an opposing end of the at least one outer impact member and an opposing end of the primary impact member. This means that in the case of multiple outer impact members, every outer impact member has a length shorter than the length of the primary impact member. The at least one outer impact member is placed inside the primary impact member. The at least one outer impact member is placed at the bottom plate outside the connection profile. As a result, the at least one outer impact member surrounds the connection profile at the side of the bottom plate. It is clear that in this embodiment, the primary impact member cannot be connected to the hollow connection profile by pressing the primary impact member on the connection profile.

[0088] This embodiment is especially advantageous when having a high impact energy of, for instance more than 6 kJ. For such an impact, it is necessary to have an impact absorbing post that is strong but can still deform elastically to absorb the energy of the impact. Simply strengthening the primary object member would reduce the possibility to deform elastically and the ability to absorb the impact energy, increasing the risk of damage to the primary impact member and failure of the impact absorbing post. The at least one outer impact member is beneficial because the primary impact member can still deform elastically easily and absorb energy due to the shorter length of the at least one outer impact member, but it will not break because it is quickly supported by the at least one outer impact member due the absence of the connection profile between the primary impact member and the at least one outer impact member.

[0089] In a preferred embodiment the impact absorbing post comprises connecting members for connecting the primary impact member to the base member. The connecting members are at least two bolts and two nuts. The bolts are traversing from a first side of the impact absorbing post through the impact absorbing post to a second opposing side of the impact absorbing post. A first bolt is substantially perpendicular to a second bolt. This embodiment is beneficial because the bolts are not only connecting the primary impact member, but also the at least one outer impact member when present. Two substantially perpendicular bolts are advantageous to have a balanced distribution of the energy of the impact over the connecting members, independent of a direction wherefrom an impact originates. The bolts have at least a size MIO, preferably at least M12. A bigger size is advantageous to avoid that the primary impact member tears around the bolt on impact. The bolts have at most a size M16. Bolts with a size smaller than or equal to M16 are advantageous because the bolts will deform on impact, absorbing a part of the impact energy, where bigger bolts, such as M18, are stiffer and would not deform. This increases the risk that the primary impact member ruptures around the bolts. Bolts with a size smaller than or equal to M16 are additionally beneficial because it allows to place the bolts higher in a base member with identical dimensions than bolts with a size M18 or higher. Consequently, more material is left in the primary impact member between the bolt and the bottom plate of the base member, reducing further the risk of rupture of the primary impact member on impact.

[0090] In a preferred embodiment, the impact absorbing post comprises at least one connector for connecting a substantially horizontal crossbar. A substantially horizontal crossbar is connected to the connector. The substantially horizontal crossbar is connected at a second opposite end to the connector of a second impact absorbing post. The second impact absorbing post is also according to the current invention. The substantially horizontal crossbar is suited as a substantially horizontal impact member. The substantially horizontal crossbar is a hollow profile made from a polymer, preferably a polyolefin, such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) and polybutylene (PB), and more preferably polypropylene (PP). The material may be different from or the same as the material from which the primary impact member is made. Preferably the material is the same as the material from which the primary impact member is made. This is beneficial when recycling the impact absorbing post. The substantially horizontal crossbar extends in a longitudinal direction.

[0091] This embodiment is especially beneficial with a previously described embodiment of a base member, wherein the lips have a length measured in the direction perpendicularly from the bottom plate of at least 65% and at most 90% of the outer diameter of the circular cross-section. The horizontal crossbar functions as a horizontal impact barrier for absorbing impact at low height. The horizontal crossbar increases the stiffness of the impact absorbing posts. The presence of only two lips increases the surface were the impact absorbing post can deform, spreading tensions in the primary impact member and reducing the change of tearing or buckling of the impact absorbing post.

[0092] In a further embodiment the impact absorbing post comprises connecting members for connecting the primary impact member to the base member. The connecting members are at least two bolts and two nuts. The bolts are traversing from a first side of the impact absorbing post through the impact absorbing post to a second opposing side of the impact absorbing post. The at least two bolts are substantially parallel to each other. The at least two bolts are traversing through two opposing lips of the base member. The at least two bolts are as described in a previous embodiment wherein a first bolt is substantially perpendicular to a second bolt.

[0093] This embodiment is with a previously described embodiment of a base member, wherein the lips have a length measured in the direction perpendicularly from the bottom plate of at least 65% and at most 90% of the outer diameter of the circular cross-section. This embodiment comprises a hollow connection profile with a limited length, insufficient two receive two pairs of connecting members.

[0094] In a third aspect, the invention relates to a method for assembling an impact absorbing post for collision protection.

[0095] The method comprises the steps of:

[0096] - installing a base member on a surface, wherein the base member comprises a bottom plate and a hollow connection profile;

[0097] - attaching the bottom plate to the surface;

[0098] - placing a primary impact member on the base member.

[0099] The base member is a base member according to the first aspect of the invention.

[0100] The primary impact member is a hollow profile made from a polymer, preferably a polyolefin, such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) and polybutylene (PB), and more preferably polypropylene (PP). The primary impact member extends in a longitudinal direction. The primary impact member extends substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate. This means that the longitudinal direction of the connection profile and the longitudinal direction of the primary impact member are substantially parallel.

[0101] By placing the primary impact member on the base member, the connection profile is placed inside the primary impact member. Consequently, the connection profile cannot be impacted directly during a collision. The connection profile is protected by the primary impact member against collision. The primary impact member is placed on the base member after attaching the bottom plate of the base member to the surface. Alternatively the primary impact member is placed on the base member before installing the base member on the surface and attaching the bottom plate to the surface. The primary impact member is connected to the connection profile by using one or more connecting members. Non-limiting examples of connecting members are screws, bolts, bolts and nuts, rivets, wedges, connection tubes, ... Alternatively, the primary impact member is connected to the connection profile by pressing the primary impact member on the connection profile. It is clear that the primary impact member can be connected to the connection profile both by using one or more connecting members and by pressing the primary impact member on the connection profile.

[0102] This method is very beneficial because it provides an impact absorbing post that can withstand impact of at least 3 kJ at a low height without failure of the impact absorbing post. The impact absorbing post remains firmly fixed to the surface, without damaging the surface. This method is additionally beneficial because it only requires a minimal number of components to assemble the impact absorbing post.

[0103] In a preferred embodiment the method comprises the additional step of placing at least one outer impact member. The at least one outer impact member is a hollow profile made from a polymer, preferably a polyolefin, such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) and polybutylene (PB), and more preferably polypropylene (PP). The material may be different from or the same as the material from which the primary impact member is made. Preferably the material is the same as the material from which the primary impact member is made. The at least one outer impact member extends in a longitudinal direction. The at least one outer impact member extends substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate. This means that the longitudinal direction of the connection profile, the longitudinal direction of the primary impact member, and the longitudinal direction of the at least one outer impact member are substantially parallel. The at least one outer impact member has a shorter length than the primary impact member. The at least one outer impact member has a longer length than the at least one inner impact member. Said lengths are measured perpendicularly from the bottom plate to respectively an opposing end of the at least one outer impact member, and an opposing end of the primary impact member. This means that in the case of multiple outer impact members, every outer impact member has a length shorter than the length of the primary impact member. The at least one outer impact member is placed inside the primary impact member. The at least one outer impact member is placed at the bottom plate outside the connection profile. As a result, the at least one outer impact member surrounds the connection profile at the side of the bottom plate. The at least one outer impact member can be placed before or after placing the primary impact member. Preferably the at least one outer impact member is placed before placing the primary impact member. The at least one outer impact member is preferably placed before attaching the primary impact member to the base member. It is clear that in this embodiment, the primary impact member cannot be connected to the connection profile by pressing the primary impact member on the connection profile.

[0104] This embodiment is especially advantageous when assembling an impact absorbing post for a high impact energy of, for instance more than 6 kJ. For such an impact, it is necessary to have an impact absorbing post that is strong but can still deform elastically to absorb the energy of the impact. Simply strengthening the primary impact member would reduce the possibility to deform elastically and the ability to absorb the impact energy, increasing the risk of damage to the primary impact member and failure of the impact absorbing post. The at least one outer impact member is beneficial because the primary impact member can still deform elastically easily and absorb energy due to the shorter length of the at least one outer impact member, but it will not break because it is quickly supported by the at least one outer impact member due the absence of the connection profile between the primary impact member and the at least one outer impact member.

[0105] In a fourth aspect, the invention relates to a kit for assembling an impact absorbing post for collision protection.

[0106] The kit comprises a base member according to the first aspect for mounting the impact absorbing post on a surface, and a primary impact member for absorbing an impact of a collision. Preferably the kit comprises further one or more connecting members for connecting the primary impact member to the base member. The primary impact member is a hollow profile made from a polymer, preferably a polyolefin, such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) and polybutylene (PB), and more preferably polypropylene (PP). The primary impact member is suited for being placed substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate around the connection profile.

[0107] The kit is beneficial because it allows to assemble an impact absorbing post with a minimal number of components that can withstand impact of at least 3 kJ at a low height. In a fifth aspect, the invention relates to a use of an impact absorbing post according to the second aspect and / or a method according to the third aspect and / or a kit according to the fourth aspect for collision protection resilient to an impact of at least 3 kJ at a height of at most 400 mm.

[0108] The use as described herein provides an advantageous effect that a collision protection can be provided that is resilient to an impact of at least 3 kJ at low height with a minimal number of components.

[0109] A person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that an impact absorbing post according to the second aspect is preferably assembled executing a method according to the third aspect and preferably using a kit according to the fourth aspect, that a method according to the third aspect is preferably executed for obtaining an impact absorbing post according to the second aspect and that a kit according to the fourth aspect is preferably suited for assembling an impact absorbing post according to the second aspect, preferably using a method according to the third aspect. Accordingly, any feature described in this document, above as well as below, may relate to any of the five aspects of the present invention.

[0110] The invention is further described by the following non-limiting figures which further illustrate the invention, and are not intended to, nor should they be interpreted to, limit the scope of the invention.

[0111] DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0112] Figure 1 shows an impact absorbing post according to the prior art after impact.

[0113] The impact absorbing post (1) consists of a base member (2), comprising a bottom plate (6) and a connection profile (5), and a primary impact member (4). The bottom plate (6) is attached to a surface with bolts (3). The primary impact member (4) is attached to a connection profile (5) with connecting members (7). The primary impact member (4) is placed around the connection profile (5). Consequently, the connection profile (5) is not visible on Figure 1. The connection members (7) are bolts and nuts. The impact absorbing post (1) has been exposed at the right-hand side to an impact at high height. The primary impact member (4) is ruptured at the location of a free end (8) of the connection profile (5) at the side of the impact. The primary impact member (1) can rupture in a similar way when having a sufficiently strong impact at low height.

[0114] Figure 2 shows another impact absorbing post according to the prior art after impact.

[0115] The impact absorbing post (1) consists of a base member (2), comprising a bottom plate (6) and a connection profile (5), and a primary impact member (4). The bottom plate (6) is attached to a surface with bolts (3). The primary impact member (4) is attached to a connection profile (5) with connecting members (7). The primary impact member (4) is placed inside the connection profile (5). The connection members (7) are bolts and nuts. The impact absorbing post (1) has been exposed at the right-hand side to an impact at high height. The primary impact member (4) has buckled at the location of a free end (8) of the connection profile (5) at the left-hand side, opposite to the side of impact. The primary impact member (1) can buckle in a similar way when having a sufficiently strong impact at low height.

[0116] Figure 3 shows yet another impact absorbing post according to the prior art during impact, suited for absorbing high impact energy at both low and high height.

[0117] The impact absorbing post (1) consists of a base member (2), comprising a bottom plate (6) and a connection profile (5), a primary impact member (4), a first outer impact member (9), a first inner impact member (10) and an anti-buckling member (11). The primary impact member (4), the first outer impact member (9), the first inner impact member (10) and the anti-buckling member (11) are attached to the connection profile with the connecting members (7), being a bolt and nut. The first outer impact member (9) is placed around the connection profile (5) and the primary impact member (4) is placed around the first outer impact member (9). The first outer impact member (9) has a shorter length than the primary impact member (4). The first inner impact member (10) is placed inside the connection profile (5) and has a shorter length than the first outer impact member (9). The anti-buckling member (11) is placed inside the first inner impact member (10) and has a longer length than the first outer impact member (9). The impact absorbing post is hit at high height by a test block (12) with high impact energy of at least 14 kJ. The impact absorbing post (1) becomes gradually stiffer when not only the primary impact member (4), but subsequently also the first outer impact member (9) and the first impact member (10) bend. This makes that the impact absorbing post (1) does not rupture near the free end (8) of the connection profile (5). Although the impact is at high height, the anti-buckling member (11) avoids the impact absorbing post (1) buckles. Although this impact absorbing post (1) is very well suited for absorbing high energy impacts at both high and low height, it is over-engineered and overdimensioned for absorbing impacts at low heights of for instance a forklift truck. Such a forklift truck will hit the impact absorbing post (1) at a height of about 300 mm with an energy that is around 3 kJ.

[0118] Figure 4 shows the distribution of strain in an impact absorbing post according to the prior art during impact at low height.

[0119] The impact absorbing post (1) has a similar construction to the impact absorbing post (1) depicted in Figure 1. The primary impact member (4) has an outer diameter of 125 mm. The connection profile (5) is a metal hollow cylinder without lips at the free end (8) of the connection profile. The connection profile (5) has an outer diameter of 101.5 mm and a length, measured perpendicularly from the bottom plate (6) of 110 mm. The primary impact member (4) is attached by connecting members (7) to the connection profile (5). The connecting members (7) are bolts and nuts. The impact absorbing post (1) is hit by a test block (12) at a height of 300 mm perpendicularly from the bottom plate (6). Maximum strain (13) occurs around the connecting members (7). The maximum strain is 0.93. The primary impact member (4) ruptures at the position of the connecting members (7) at an impact energy of 2.3 kJ.

[0120] Figure 5 shows the distribution of strain in another impact absorbing post according to the prior art during impact at low height.

[0121] The impact absorbing post (1) is identical to the impact absorbing post (1) depicted in Figure 4, with the difference that the connection profile (5) has a length of 137.5 mm measured perpendicularly from the bottom plate (6). The impact absorbing post (1) is hit by the same test block (12) at a height of 300 mm measured perpendicularly from the bottom plate (6). Maximum strain (13) occurs near the free end (8) of the connection profile (5). The maximum strain is 0.841. The primary impact member (4) ruptures near the free end (8) at an impact energy of 2.5 kJ.

[0122] Figure 6 shows an impact absorbing post according to an embodiment of the current invention. The impact absorbing post (1) comprises a base member (2) for mounting the impact absorbing post (1) on a surface, a primary impact member (4) for absorbing an impact of a collision and connecting members (7) for connecting the primary impact member (4) to the base member (2). The base member (2) comprises a bottom plate (6) and a hollow connection profile (5) for connecting the primary impact member

[0123] (4) to the base member (2) using connecting members (7). The bottom plate (6) and the hollow connection profile (5) are made of steel in this particular embodiment. The connection profile (5) is firmly fixed to the bottom plate (6) and extends substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate (6). The bottom plate (6) is attached to a surface using bolts (3). The connection profile (5) has a free end (8). The connection profile

[0124] (5) comprises at the free end (8) lips (14). The lips (14) extend substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate (6). The lips (14) are evenly spaced around a circumference of the free end (8). The lips (14) are an integral part of the connection profile (5). All lips (14) are equal. The lips (14) have a top (16) that narrows gradually. The top (16) of the lips (14) has an end that is substantially parallel to the bottom plate (6). Between every two lips (14) is a free space, a valley (15). All valleys (15) are equal. The valleys (15) and the top (16) of the lips (14) have an equal profile oriented in opposite directions. The top (16) of the lips (14) is at a distance measured perpendicularly from the bottom plate (6) of 137.5 mm. The lips (14) have a length of 27.5 mm measured in a direction perpendicularly from the bottom plate (6). The length of the lips (14) is measured from a lowest point, so closest to the bottom plate

[0125] (6) in a valley (15) between two lips (14), to the top (16) of a lip (14). Consequently, the lowest point in the valley (15) is at a distance perpendicularly from the bottom plate (6) of 110 mm. The connection profile (5) has a circular cross-section with an outer diameter of 101.5 mm. The length of the lips (14) is thus 27% of the outer diameter of the connection profile (5). The primary impact member (4) is a hollow profile made from a polymer. The polymer is in this particular embodiment polypropylene. The primary impact member (4) extends substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate (6). The connection profile (4) is placed inside the primary impact member (4). The connecting members (7) are two bolts and two nuts, wherein the bolts are traversing from a first side of the impact absorbing post (1) through the impact absorbing post (1) to a second opposing side of the impact absorbing post (1). A first bolt is substantially perpendicular to a second bolt. The two bolts are M12 bolts.

[0126] Figure 7 shows the distribution of strain in the impact absorbing post of Figure 6 during impact at low height. The impact absorbing post (1) is identical to the impact absorbing post (1) depicted in Figure 6. The impact absorbing post (1) is hit by the same test block (12) as in Figure 4 and 5 at a height of 300 mm perpendicularly from the bottom plate (6). Maximum strain (13) occurs near the top (16) of the lips (14) of the connection profile (5) and near the connecting members (7). The maximum strain is 0.48, which is a serious reduction compared to Figure 4 and 5. The primary impact member (4) stretches over a wider area thanks to the presence of the valleys (15), resulting in medium strain (17) in this wider area. The primary impact member (4) ruptures at an impact energy of 3.5 kJ. This is 40% higher compared to the impact absorbing post of Figure 5.

[0127] Figure 8 shows an impact absorbing post according to an alternative embodiment of the current invention.

[0128] The impact absorbing post (1) is almost identical to the impact absorbing post (1) of Figure 6. The main difference is that the impact absorbing post (1) comprises an outer impact member (18). The outer impact member (18) is a hollow profile made of a polymer. The polymer of the outer impact member (18) is in this particular embodiment also polypropylene. The outer impact member (18) extends substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate (6). The outer impact member (18) has a shorter length than the primary impact member (4). The length is measured perpendicularly to the bottom plate (6). The outer impact member (18) is placed inside the primary impact member (4) and at the bottom plate (6) outside the connection profile (5). The outer impact member (18) is thus positioned in between the primary impact member (4) and the connection profile (5).

[0129] Figures 9A and 9B show an impact absorbing post according to another alternative embodiment of the current invention.

[0130] The impact absorbing post (1) has a similar structure as the previous described impact absorbing posts (1) according to the current invention. The impact absorbing post (1) comprises a connector (20) for connecting a substantially horizontal crossbar (19). The connector (20) comprises an opening in the primary impact member (4) and a profile with a square cross-section. The profile extends in a direction perpendicular to the base member (2) and through the substantially horizontal crossbar (19). The base member (2) has two lips (14) and two valleys (15), spread evenly along a circumference of the connection profile. The horizontal crossbar (19) extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the two lips (14). The connection profile (5) has a length measured in a direction perpendicular to the bottom plate (6) from the bottom plate (6) to a lowest point in a valley (15) of 14 mm. The lips (14) have a length of 155 mm measured in a direction perpendicular to the bottom plate (6) from the lowest point in a valley (15) to a top (16) of the lips (14). The connection profile (5) has a diameter of 219.1 mm. The top (16) of the lips (14) is at a height of 169 mm. The length of the lips (14) is rounded 71% of the diameter of the connection profile (5). The length of the connection profile (5) is 9% of the length of the lips (14). The impact absorbing post (1) comprises connecting members (7) for connecting the primary impact member (4) to the base member (2). The connecting members (7) are two parallel bolts and two nuts. The two parallel bolts are traversing through the two opposing lips (14) of the base member (2), the primary impact member (4) and the profile with the square cross-section.

[0131] Figure 10 shows an impact absorbing post according to an alternative embodiment of the current invention.

[0132] The impact absorbing post (1) comprises a base member (2) for mounting the impact absorbing post (1) on a surface, a primary impact member (4) for absorbing an impact of a collision and connecting members (7) for connecting the primary impact member (4) to the base member (2). The base member (2) comprises a bottom plate (6) and a hollow connection profile (5) for connecting the primary impact member

[0133] (4) to the base member (2) using connecting members (7). The bottom plate (6) and the hollow connection profile (5) are made of steel in this particular embodiment. The connection profile (5) is firmly fixed to the bottom plate (6) and extends substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate (6). The bottom plate (6) is attached to a surface using bolts (3). The connection profile (5) has a free end (8).

[0134] The connection profile (5) comprises at the free end (8) lips (14). The lips (14) extend substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate (6). The lips (14) are evenly spaced around a circumference of the free end (8). The lips (14) are an integral part of the connection profile (5). All lips (14) are equal. Each lip (14) has a top (16), wherein the tops (16) of the lips (14) are connected by means of a ring (21). Additionally, the tops (16) of the lips (14) are connected in such a way that between two lips (14) a hole is formed. The ring (21) and lips (14) are integral parts of the connection profile

[0135] (5). The ring (21) is an integral part of the connection profile (5). The ring (21) is substantially parallel to the bottom plate (6). The ring's (21) outer diameter is equal to the maximum or outer diameter of the connection profile (5). Between every two lips (14) is a free space or hole, comprising a valley (15). All valleys (15) are equal. The top (16) of the lips (14) is at a distance measured perpendicularly from the bottom plate (6) of 137.5 mm. The lips (14) have a length of 27.5 mm measured in a direction perpendicularly from the bottom plate (6). The length of the lips (14) is measured from a lowest point, so closest to the bottom plate (6) in a valley (15) between two lips (14), to the top (16) of a lip (14). Consequently, the lowest point in the valley (15) is at a distance perpendicularly from the bottom plate (6) of 110 mm.

[0136] The connection profile (5) has a circular cross-section with an outer diameter of 101.5 mm. The length of the lips (14) is thus 27% of the outer diameter of the connection profile (5). The primary impact member (4) is a hollow profile made from a polymer. The polymer is in this particular embodiment polypropylene. The primary impact member (4) extends substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate (6). The connection profile (4) is placed inside the primary impact member (4). The connecting members (7) are two bolts and two nuts, wherein the bolts are traversing from a first side of the impact absorbing post (1) through the impact absorbing post (1) to a second opposing side of the impact absorbing post (1). A first bolt is substantially perpendicular to a second bolt. The two bolts are M12 bolts.

[0137] Furthermore, the impact absorbing post (1) comprises an outer impact member (18). The outer impact member (18) is a hollow profile made of a polymer. The polymer of the outer impact member (18) is in this particular embodiment also polypropylene. The outer impact member (18) extends substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate (6). The outer impact member (18) has a shorter length than the primary impact member (4). The length is measured perpendicularly to the bottom plate (6). The outer impact member (18) is placed inside the primary impact member (4) and at the bottom plate (6) outside the connection profile (5). The outer impact member (18) is thus positioned in between the primary impact member (4) and the connection profile (5). The elements in the figures are:

[0138] 1. Impact absorbing post

[0139] 2. Base member

[0140] 3. Bolts

[0141] 4. Primary impact member

[0142] 5. Connection profile

[0143] 6. Bottom plate

[0144] 7. Connecting members

[0145] 8. Free end of connection profile

[0146] 9. First outer impact member

[0147] 10. First inner impact member

[0148] 11. Anti-buckling member

[0149] 12. Test block

[0150] 13. Maximum strain

[0151] 14. Lip

[0152] 15. Valley

[0153] 16. Top

[0154] 17. Medium strain

[0155] 18. Outer impact member

[0156] 19. Substantially horizontal crossbar

[0157] 20. Connector

[0158] 21. Ring

Claims

CLAIMS1. Base member for mounting an impact absorbing post on a surface, comprising a bottom plate and a hollow connection profile for connecting a primary impact member to the base member, wherein the connection profile is firmly fixed to the bottom plate and extends substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate, characterized in that the connection profile has a free end, wherein the connection profile comprises at the free end lips, wherein the lips extend substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate and wherein the lips are spaced around a circumference of the free end.

2. Base member according to claim 1, wherein the lips have a top that narrows gradually.

3. Base member according to claim 1 or 2, wherein between every two lips there is a valley that narrows gradually.

4. Base member according to claim 3, wherein the top of the lips and the valley have an equal profile oriented in opposite directions.

5. Base member according to any of the previous claims 1-4, wherein the connection profile has a circular cross-section in a plane parallel to the bottom plate, wherein the lips have a length measured in a direction perpendicular to the bottom plate of at least 20% of an outer diameter of the circular crosssection.

6. Base member according to claim 5, wherein the lips have a length measured in the direction perpendicular to the bottom plate of at most 46% of the outer diameter of the circular cross-section.

7. Base member according to claim 5, wherein the lips have a length of measured in the direction perpendicular to the bottom plate of at least 65% and at most 90% of the outer diameter of the circular cross-section, wherein the number of lips is two.

8. Base member according to any of the previous claims 1-7, wherein the lips have a top, wherein the top is at a distance perpendicularly from the bottom plate of at least 130 mm and at most 210 mm.

9. Base member according to any of the previous claims 1-8, wherein the connection profile comprises two pairs of opposite slotted holes for receiving connecting members, wherein a line through a first pair of opposite slotted holes is perpendicular to a line through a second pair of opposite slotted holes.

10. Base member according to any of the previous claims 1-8, wherein the connection profile comprises two pairs of opposite slotted holes for receiving connecting members, wherein a line through a first pair of opposite slotted holes is parallel to a line through a second pair of opposite slotted holes, and wherein both the line through the first pair of opposite slotted holes and through the second pair of opposite slotted holes are through two opposite lips.

11. Base member according to any of the previous claims 1-10, wherein each lip comprises a top, said tops of the lips being interconnected by means of a ring.

12. Impact absorbing post for collision protection, comprising a base member for mounting the impact absorbing post on a surface, and a primary impact member for absorbing an impact of a collision, wherein the base member comprises a bottom plate and a hollow connection profile, wherein the primary impact member is a hollow profile made from a polymer, wherein the primary impact member extends substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate and wherein the connection profile is placed inside the primary impact member, characterized in that the base member is according to any of the previous claims 1-10.

13. Impact absorbing post according to claim 12, wherein the impact absorbing post comprises at least one connector for connecting a substantially horizontal crossbar, wherein a substantially horizontal crossbar is connected to the connector, wherein the substantially horizontal crossbar is connected at a second opposite end to the connector of a second impact absorbing post, and wherein the substantially horizontal crossbar is a hollow profile made from a polymer.

14. Impact absorbing post according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the impact absorbing post comprises at least one outer impact member, wherein the at least one outer impact member is a hollow profile made of a polymer, wherein the at least one outer impact member extends substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate, wherein the at least one outer impact member has a shorter length than the primary impact member, wherein the length is measured perpendicularly from the bottom plate and wherein the at least one outer impact member is placed inside the primary impact member and at the bottom plate outside the connection profile.

15. Impact absorbing post according to any of the previous claims 12-14, wherein the impact absorbing post comprises connecting members for connecting the primary impact member to the base member, wherein the connecting members are at least two bolts and two nuts, wherein the bolts are traversing from a first side of the impact absorbing post through the impact absorbing post to a second opposing side of the impact absorbing post, wherein a first bolt is substantially perpendicular to a second bolt and wherein the at least two bolts and two nuts have a size of at least MIO and at most M16.

16. Impact absorbing post according to any of the previous claims 12-14, wherein the impact absorbing post comprises connecting members for connecting the primary impact member to the base member, wherein the connecting members are at least two bolts and two nuts, wherein the bolts are traversing from a first side of the impact absorbing post through the impact absorbing post to a second opposing side of the impact absorbing post, wherein the at least two bolts are substantially parallel to each other, wherein the at least two bolts are traversing through two opposing lips of the base member, and wherein the at least two bolts and two nuts have a size of at least MIO and at most M1617. Method for assembling an impact absorbing post for collision protection comprising the steps of:- installing a base member on a surface, wherein the base member comprises a bottom plate and a hollow connection profile;- attaching the bottom plate to the surface;- placing a primary impact member on the base member, wherein the primary impact member is a hollow profile made from a polymer, wherein the primary impact member extends substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate and wherein the connection profile is placed inside the primary impact member; characterized in that the base member is according to any of the previous claims 1-11.

18. Method according to claim 17, wherein the method comprises the additional step of placing at least one outer impact member, wherein the at least one outer impact member is a hollow profile made of a polymer, wherein the at least one outer impact member extends substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate, wherein the at least one outer impact member has a shorter length than the primary impact member, wherein the length is measured perpendicularly from the bottom plate and wherein the at least one outer impact member is placed inside the primary impact member and at the bottom plate outside the connection profile.

19. Kit for assembling an impact absorbing post for collision protection, the kit comprising a base member for mounting the impact absorbing post on a surface, and a primary impact member for absorbing an impact of a collision, wherein the base member comprises a bottom plate and a hollow connection profile, wherein the primary impact member is a hollow profile made from a polymer, wherein the primary impact member is suited for being placed substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate around the connection profile, characterized in that the base member is according to any of the previous claims 1-11.

20. Use of an impact absorbing post according to any of the previous claims 12- 16 and / or a method according to any of the previous claims 17-18 and / or a kit according to claim 19 for collision protection resilient to an impact of at least 3 kJ at a height of at most 400 mm.

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