A support for anchoring into the ground, a barrier and a method of installing the support

Abstract

The present invention relates to a support (1) for anchoring in the ground, a barrier and a method of installing the supports. The present support has a body (2) extending in a height direction, where one or more wing elements (6) are mounted to the side surface of the body. The wing elements have an L-, U- or T-shaped profile formed by one or two wing portions (12) and a base portion (11). The base portion or wing portion is mounted to the body by fasteners. Protective cover elements are arranged relative to the fasteners. A top element is arranged at the local top end of the wing element. The wing portion is provided with means for mounting one or more external elements.

Description

[0001] A support for anchoring into the ground, a barrier and a method of installing the support

[0002] Field of the Invention

[0003] The present invention relates to a support for anchoring into the ground, having a body extending in a length direction from a top end to a bottom end, the body extending further in a width direction and in a depth direction, the support is configured for supporting noise barrier elements or wall elements.

[0004] The present invention further relates to a barrier comprising a plurality of supports and a method of installing the supports.

[0005] Background of the Invention

[0006] It is known to install noise barriers along areas suffering from noise pollution, such as roads, railways and the like. The noise barrier comprising a plurality of upright supports anchored into the ground, where one or more noise barrier elements are positioned and secured between a pair of adjacent supports. Each noise barrier element has a front side and a back side, between which a sound absorbing material is arranged for absorbing the sound from one or both sides.

[0007] Upright supports are also used to install other types of barriers, such as security fences, where individual barrier elements are positioned and secured between each pair of adjacent supports. Upright supports are further used to support wall elements of buildings or other structures. Some upright supports are also used to support masts, lighting poles and road signs, where a transition piece is arranged at the top end of the support.

[0008] A common method of installing the supports, is to drill or suck a hole in the ground, wherein an optional reinforced cage is arranged within the hole. The support is then lifted into position and lowered into the hole. Concrete is then poured into the hole and the support is levelled off. Finally, the concrete is left to cure. The top surface of the concrete may be used as a shelf for installing the lowermost barrier or wall element, alternatively a separate bracket may be mounted above the concrete top surface. However, this method takes time and increases the overall installation costs. Another method of installing the supports, is to use a pile driver to drive the supports into the ground without drilling a hole first. The pile driver may use a heavy weight to hammer the supports into the ground, where the weight is repetitively brought into contact with the top end of the support. Alternatively, the pile driver may use a vibrating system that is positioned on the top of the support, where the supports are vibrated into the ground.

[0009] It is known that the wind acting on the wall or barrier introduces a bending moment on the supports. The strength of the soil may vary along the depth due to different soil conditions, similarly the wind profile may vary along the height of the barrier. Rain and drought may also affect the strength of the soil. Therefore, the supports may tilt if the supports are not properly dimensioned in accordance with the strength of the ground and the bending moments acting on the barrier or supports.

[0010] One way to solve this problem, is to drive the support further into the ground or to increase the overall volume of the anchoring structure.

[0011] The supports for noise barriers produced by TerraWing comprise a hollow cylindrical pole, where one or two sets of wings are welded onto the exterior surface of the pole. Each set comprises two opposite facing wings extending in the length direction. The wings are heavy duty plates due to the welding requirements and the dimensions thereof are determined based on the soil conditions. The supports are hammered into the ground and an adjustable transition piece is subsequently mounted onto the top end of each support. The supports are custom made, which increases the total production costs.

[0012] Object of the Invention

[0013] One objection of the present invention is to solve the abovementioned problems of the prior art.

[0014] One object of the present invention is achieved by a support, barrier and method that reduces the risk of the supports tilting after installation.

[0015] One object of the present invention is achieved by a support, barrier and method that is cheap and easy to install at a certain site. One object of the present invention is achieved by a support, barrier and method that is versatile and easy to adapt to different applications.

[0016] Description of the Invention

[0017] One object of the present invention is achieved by a support for anchoring into the ground, according to claim 1, having a body extending in a height direction from a top end to a bottom end, the body extending further in a width direction and in a length direction, the support comprising at least one wing element arranged on at least one side surface of the body and extending in the height direction characterised in that the at least one wing element comprises a base portion connected to at least one wing portion, wherein the base portion or wing portion is configured to be mounted to the body by fasteners.

[0018] This provides a support that is cheap and easy to install compared to conventional supports, since no holes or reinforced concrete anchors are needed. The present support is versatile and easy to adapt to different applications compared to conventional supports. The present wing elements are intended to be mounted to the body of the support onsite by fasteners, thus eliminating the need for any welding. This reduces the production costs and allows for easier handling of the supports.

[0019] The present support has a body extending in a height direction from a top end to a bottom end. The body further extends in a width direction from a first side to a second side. The body further extends in a length direction from a front side to a back side. The dimensions of the body are selected based on the soil conditions and the bending moments acting on the supports. The body has an upper portion intended to be located above the ground level and a lower portion intended to be located below the ground level.

[0020] A number of wing elements are arranged on the body between the top end and the bottom end. Each wing element has a local height in the height direction and a local width in the width direction. The wing element has a base portion configured to be mounted to the body unlike the wing element of TerraWing. The wing element further has a wing portion with a predetermined surface area which acts as a pressure distributing plate. This counteracts the bending moment and eliminates the tilting of the support. The dimensions and location of the wing element are selected based on the soil conditions and the bending moments acting on the supports.

[0021] Here, the term ‘connected to’ should be understood, unless otherwise specified, as including the two pieces being integrated together or joined together by fasteners.

[0022] In one embodiment, the at least one wing element has an overall L-shaped profile comprising a first wing portion connected to one side edge of the base portion, the first wing portion having a local height and local width.

[0023] The wing element may comprise a single wing portion arranged at an angle relative to the base portion, thus forming an overall L-shaped profile. Preferably, the wing portion may be arranged parallel to the width direction of the support, or perpendicular to the base portion. However, the wing portion may also be arranged in an inclined angle relative to the width direction, or at an obtuse or acute angle relative to the base portion. This allows the wing portion to be arranged at the front or back side of the support depending on the desired configuration.

[0024] In one embodiment, the at least one wing element further comprises a second wing portion connected to an opposite side edge of the base portion to an overall U-shaped profile, the second wing portion also having a local height and local width.

[0025] The wing element may also comprise two wing portions each arranged at an angle relative to the base portion, thus forming an overall U-shaped profile. Preferably, the wing portions may be arranged parallel to the width direction of the support, or perpendicular to the base portion. However, one or both wing portions may also be arranged in an inclined angle relative to the width direction, or at an obtuse or acute angle relative to the base portion. Alternatively, the U-shaped profile may also be formed by two L- shaped wing elements arranged front-to-front. This provides added stability as the soil between the two wing portions may be used to further counteract the bending moment.

[0026] For example, the local height and / or local width of the first wing portion may be equal to the local height and / or local width of the second wing portion. Alternatively, the local height and / or local width of the first wing portion may differ from the local height and / or local width of the second wing portion. This allows the surface area of each wing portion to be individually adapted to the soil conditions and bending moments.

[0027] In one embodiment, the at least one wing element has an overall T-shaped profile comprising a first wing portion connected to a side surface of the base portion, the first wing portion having a local height and local width.

[0028] The wing element may comprise a single wing portion arranged at an angle relative to the base portion, thus forming an overall T-shaped profile. Preferably, the wing portion may be arranged parallel to the width direction of the support, or perpendicular to the base portion. However, the wing portion may also be arranged in an inclined angle relative to the width direction, or at an obtuse or acute angle relative to the base portion. This allows the wing portion to be arranged between the front and back sides of the support depending on the desired configuration.

[0029] For example, the base portion may comprise a side surface extending between the opposite facing side edges. The wing portion may extend along a centre line of the base portion, or the wing portion may be offset relative to and extend parallel to the centre line.

[0030] In one embodiment, the support comprises a first wing element and at least a second wing element arranged at an angle relative to each other in a circumference direction, and / or a first wing element and at least a third wing element arranged at individual distances from the top or bottom end.

[0031] The number of wing elements and their individual locations on the body may be selected based on the soil conditions and the bending moments. Preferably, a first set of wing elements may be arranged on the body at a first distance measured from the local top end to the top or bottom end. Preferably, all wing elements of the first set may be arranged at the same distance from the top or bottom end. Alternatively, one or more wing elements of the first set may be offset relative to at least another wing element of the first set in the height direction. The local top ends of one or more wing elements of the first set may thus be arranged below or above the ground level depending on the desired configuration. A total surface area may thus be formed by a single set of wing elements where the counteracting pressure acts on this total surface area during tilting.

[0032] Optionally, at least a second set of wing elements may be arranged on the body at at least a second distance measured from the local top end to the top or bottom end. The at least second set of wing elements may be located between the bottom end and the first set of wing elements. Preferably, all wing elements of the second set may be arranged at the same distance from the top or bottom end. Alternatively, one or more wing elements of the second set may be offset relative to at least another wing element of the second set in the height direction. Thereby, the total surface area may be distributed amongst multiple individual wing elements. This allows the wing elements to be located at depths where the counteracting pressure has the greatest effect.

[0033] The dimensions and / or the number of wing elements in the second set may be smaller than the wing elements of the first set, or vice versa. Alternatively, the dimensions and / or number of wing elements in the first and second sets may be equal.

[0034] Depending on the desired configuration and application, further sets of wing elements may be arranged on the body between the second set and the bottom end.

[0035] In example, the first and second sets may each comprise one, two, three, four or more wing elements arranged at an angle relative to each other in a circumference direction.

[0036] In a special embodiment, the first wing element has an overall U-shaped profile and the second or third wing element has an overall L-shaped profile, and / or the first wing element and the second or third wing element have an overall L-shaped profile, wherein the wing portion of one wing element is arranged at the front side and the wing portion of another wing element is arranged at the back side.

[0037] The individual wing elements within the first set and / or the second set may all have the same profile. Alternatively, one wing element within the first set and / or the second set may have a profile that differs from at least another wing element within the first set and / or the second set. This further allows the configuration of each set of wing elements to be adapted to the soil conditions and bending moments. For example, the wing elements may all have the same overall U- or L-shaped profile. Alternatively, two or more of the wing elements may have differ profiles.

[0038] In a special embodiment, the local length, the local height and / or the local width of the first wing element is equal to or differs from the local length, the local height and / or the local width of the second or third wing element.

[0039] The individual wing elements within the first set and / or the second set may all have the same dimensions. Alternatively, one wing element within the first set and / or the second set may have dimensions that differ from at least another wing element within the first set and / or the second set. This further allows the dimensions of each wing element to be adapted to the soil conditions and bending moments.

[0040] For example, all wing elements may have wing portions with the same local height and / or local width. Alternatively, two or more of the wing elements may have wing portions with different local heights and / or local widths. For example, all wing elements may have the same local length, or the wing elements may have different local lengths.

[0041] In one embodiment, a local length of the at least one wing element corresponds to or is less than a length of the body.

[0042] The body may have a length measured between the front side and the back side in the length direction. Similarly, the wing element may have a local length measured in the length direction.

[0043] The wing element may have a local length that is equal to the length of the body. The wing portion may thus be aligned with the front side and / or the back side of the body. Alternatively, the wing element may have a local length less than the length of the body. This allows for adjustment of the wing element in the length direction.

[0044] In one embodiment, the at least one wing portion has a local top end and a local bottom end, wherein the local bottom end is arranged at an inclined angle relative to the body in the height direction. The top end may have predetermined end profile, such as a straight end profile. This end profile may be arranged perpendicularly with the height direction of the body.

[0045] Further, the bottom end may have a predetermined end profile, such as a straight or curved profile. This end profile may also be arranged perpendicularly with the height direction of the body. Alternatively, this end profile may be arranged in an inclined angle relative to the height direction of the body. This reduces the resistance when driving the support into the ground.

[0046] In one embodiment, the at least one wing element further comprises a top element arranged at the top end, preferably the top element is configured to act as a shelf for an external barrier or wall element or to act as a mounting bracket for mounting an external shelf element.

[0047] The top element may be a top portion connected to the base portion which may project outwards in the height direction. The top portion may be bend along a bending line until it is flushed with the local top edges of the wing portions. In this configuration, the local length of the top portion may at least correspond to the local length of the wing element, so that it rests on the wing portions when bend. The top portion may also be shaped as a separate top, which may be mounted to one or both wing portions so that it is held in a fixed position. Optionally, the base portion, the wing portions and the top portion may form an integrated piece. The top portion may be shaped as a solid, continuous top, a perforated top or a mesh.

[0048] Alternatively, the top portion may be flushed with the base portion in the height direction and comprise at least one mounting hole for mounting a separate shelf element. Optionally, the mounting hole may be an elongated hole for adjustment of the shelf element.

[0049] The top element may also be shaped as one or more rods or beams that may extend through the opposite facing wing portions. The rods or beams may be mounted or fixed to the wing portions by nuts, locking pins or the like. In this embodiment, the top element also acts as a strengthening element, as the rods or beams extending between opposite facing wing portions further stabilises the wing portions of the wing element, when pushed into the soil, which may further counteract the bending moment. Thereby, the top element strengthens the wing element.

[0050] The top portion itself may thus act as a shelf for the positioning of a lowermost barrier or wall element. Alternatively, the top portion may act as mounting bracket for mounting a shelf element. The shelf element may be mounted by one or more fasteners.

[0051] In a special embodiment, the top element may be shaped as a top plate having a predetermined surface area, wherein the top plate may be arranged perpendicularly to the wing portions.

[0052] The top element may also be shaped as a stabilising top plate having a predetermined surface area. The top plate may be arranged perpendicular to the wing portions so that it extends in the length direction. This top plate may thus prevent the support from sinking further into the ground and may indirectly keep the support in an upright position. This may be particularly relevant if the soil conditions are very poor.

[0053] In one embodiment, the at least one wing portion of the at least one wing element is configured to be mounted to the base portion by fasteners, and / or the at least one wing portion and the base portion of the at least one wing element are formed as a continuous element.

[0054] The base portion and the wing portions may be manufactured as separate pieces, which may then be mounted together by fasteners, such as bolts, screws or rivets. This allows the base portion to be manufactured as a standardised component, where the individual wing components may be manufactured in accordance with the soil conditions and bending moments at the installation location. This further simplifies the production of the wing elements.

[0055] The base portion may comprise a mounting flange extending along one or both side edges. Alternatively, the mounting flange may be arranged on the side surface between the side edges. The wing portion(s) may then be mounted to this mounting flange. Alternatively, the base portion may have an L-shaped profile with two legs, where one leg is mounted to the wing portion and one leg is mounted to the body. The wing portion may also an L-shaped profile with two legs, where the base portion may be mounted to one leg. The base portion and wing portion may be arranged back-to-back to form an overall T-shaped profile.

[0056] Alternatively, the base portion and the wing portions may be manufactured as a single, continuous piece. Optionally, the base portion and one of the wing portions may be manufactured as a continuous piece, while the other wing portion may be mounted to the base portion by fasteners. This also allows for a simplified production of the wing elements.

[0057] Optionally, the body, the raw continuous piece and the raw separate pieces may be worked into their final shape in a finishing step, e.g., by grinding, sanding, cutting, etc. The continuous piece and separate pieces may further be coated, e.g., by galvanization, and / or painted in the finishing step. This protects the pieces as they are exposed to the soil conditions and, optionally, also to the atmospheric conditions.

[0058] The body and / or the wing elements may be produced by extrusion, pultrusion, casing or moulding. However, other production techniques may also be used.

[0059] In one embodiment, the base portion of the at least one wing element is formed by the body of the support.

[0060] Depending on the configuration of the support, the base portion may be formed by the body of the support. Thus, the wing portions may be mounted directly to the body by fasteners. This allows for an alternative mounting of the wing portions.

[0061] In one embodiment, the support further comprises at least one cover element arranged relative to the fasteners, wherein the at least one cover element is configured to protect the fasteners during installation. The wing portions or the base portion may be mounted to the body of the support by a number of fasteners. A protective cover may be placed over the head and / or the end of each fastener. This protects the fasteners when driving the supports into the ground.

[0062] Alternatively, the cover element may be formed by an integrated profile on the base portion or the wing portion. This integrated profile may be arranged relative to the location of the fasteners. For example, this profile may have a triangular or ring-shaped profile projecting from the side surface of the base or wing portion. For example, the cover element may be a recessed area around the mounting hole for the fastener so that the head of the fastener is partly concealed within this recessed area.

[0063] Alternatively, the cover element may be formed by a rounded head on the fastener. The cover element may also be formed by a collar on the head and / or on the nut of the fastener.

[0064] Alternatively, the cover element may be shaped as an elongated element with a through hole for receiving the fastener. One portion of this elongated element may be pre-bend, or it may be manually bend after mounting, so that it projects away from the side surface of the base or wing portion. As the support is driven into the ground, the bend portion is bend further by the soil until it contacts the head or end of the fastener. This protects the fastener when driving the supports into the ground.

[0065] In one embodiment, the at least one wing portion comprises means for mounting one or more external components.

[0066] The wing portions may be fitted with means for mounting one or more external components. The means may be arranged along the top end and / or along a side edge of the wing portion. For example, the means may be dedicated mounting holes or areas formed in the wing portion. However, other types of mounting means may also be used.

[0067] These mounting means may be used to mount skirts configured to close off the area between the barrier elements and the ground. The mounting means may also be used to temporary mount boards to form an enclosed area between the wing portions of the wing element. The enclosed area may be filled with concrete for on-site casting of concrete skirts. The board may be removed after the concrete is cured. Thereby providing wing element with increased strength, which further stabilises the wing portions of the wing element, when pushed in the soil and further counteracting the bending moment.

[0068] However, the mounting means may also be used to mount other types of elements.

[0069] In one embodiment, at least the wing portions of the at least one wing element is made of a metallic material, a composite material or a plastic material.

[0070] Here, the term ‘metallic material’ should be understood as metals and metal alloys, such as aluminium or steel. The composite material comprises fibre reinforced materials, wherein the fibres may be made of carbon, aramid or glass. The plastic material may be a durable plastic material, such as HDPE material.

[0071] The body may be made of a metallic material, a composite material or a plastic material. Similarly, the wing elements may be made entirely of a metallic material, a composite material or a plastic material. Alternatively, the base portion and the wing portion may be made of different materials.

[0072] In one embodiment, the body has a H-shaped profile or a hollow tube profile.

[0073] The supports may preferably have a H-shaped or a hollow tube profile. However, the body may also have other profiles. This allows for a rigid and sturdy body for transferring moments and forces from the barrier or wall elements into the ground.

[0074] The base portion may have a shape that is adapted to follow the profile of the body. For example, the base portion may have a flat, curved or bend profile conformed to the profile of the side surface of the body.

[0075] One object of the present invention is achieved by a barrier according to claim 15, such as a noise barrier or a security fence, comprising a plurality of upright supports spaced apart and anchored into the ground, where one or more barrier elements are positioned between each adjacent pair of supports, each barrier element has a front side and a back side, characterised in that the supports are configured as described in any one of the preceding claims.

[0076] It provides a barrier where the risk of the supports tilting after installation is eliminated, or at least reduced to a minimum. The wing elements of the supports counteracts the tilting of the supports, this further reduces the risk of any damages to the barrier elements. This ensures that the barrier remains in the upright position even during changing soil and weather conditions.

[0077] The supports may be erected with a predetermined spacing that corresponds to the width of the barrier elements. Each barrier element may be secured to another barrier element and / or to the supports. Finally, a cap or cover may be mounted at the top of the barrier. The barrier elements may rest on the shelf formed by the top element or on a separate shelf mounted to the wing element.

[0078] Further, additional components, such as skirts, may be mounted to the wing element either before or after positioning the barrier elements between the supports. This allows for a simpler installation of the barrier components.

[0079] One object of the present invention is achieved by a method of installing supports, according to claim 16, comprising:

[0080] - providing a plurality of supports as described in any one of the preceding claims,

[0081] - lifting one support into an upright position relative to an installation location using a lifting unit, and

[0082] - driving the one support into the ground, preferably by vibrations.

[0083] The present support described above allows for a cheap and simple installation as no holes or concrete anchoring structures are needed. The present supports are installed by simply driving the supports into the ground, preferably by vibrations. However, the supports may also be hammered into the ground. The top end of the support is connected to a vibration system, which is further connected to a lifting unit, e.g., a crane. The support is then lifted into an upright position and positioned at the desired installation location.

[0084] The vibration system is then activated, and the supports are driven into the ground until the top end of the support reaches the desired height. The vibrating system is disconnected and removed from the support. The process is then repeated for the next support. Thereby allowing for a fast and simple installation of multiple supports.

[0085] In one embodiment, the at least one wing element is mounted to the body of the one support before driving the one support into the ground or before lifting the one support into the upright position.

[0086] The present invention allows for an easy handling and transport of the supports, as the bodies may be packed and transported separately from the wing elements. The wing elements may then be mounted to the respective bodies on-site. This may be done when the supports are in an upright position before driving them into the ground. Alternatively, the wing elements may be mounted before lifting the supports into position.

[0087] Description of the Drawing

[0088] The present invention is described by example only and with reference to the drawings, wherein:

[0089] Fig. 1 shows a first embodiment of a support according to the present invention, Fig. 2 shows a cross section of the wing elements shown in fig. 1,

[0090] Fig. 3 shows the support and wing elements of fig. 1 seen from the top end,

[0091] Fig. 4 shows a second embodiment of the support,

[0092] Fig. 5 shows a wing element with a U-shaped profile,

[0093] Fig. 6 shows a first arrangement of two wing elements with an L-shaped profile,

[0094] Fig. 7 shows a second arrangement of the wing elements shown in fig. 6,

[0095] Fig. 8 shows a set of wing elements arranged relative to each other,

[0096] Fig. 9 shows a third arrangement of the wing elements shown in fig. 6,

[0097] Fig. 10 shows two wing elements orientated in different directions,

[0098] Fig. 11 shows the wing element with two alternative embodiments of a top element, Fig. 12 shows an alternative embodiment of the wing element, Fig. 13 shows the wing element with a T-shaped profile,

[0099] Fig. 14 shows an alternative embodiment of the wing element shown in fig. 13,

[0100] Fig. 15 shows a further alternative embodiment of the wing element shown in fig. 13, Fig. 16 shows the fasteners with a cover element,

[0101] Fig. 17 shows the wing elements with means for mounting external components, and Fig. 18 shows a barrier according to the present invention.

[0102] In the following text, the figures will be described one by one, and the different parts and positions seen in the figures will be numbered with the same numbers in the different figures. Not all parts and positions indicated in a specific figure will necessarily be discussed together with that figure.

[0103] Detailed Description of the Invention

[0104] Fig. 1 shows a first embodiment of a support 1 according to the present invention. The support 1 comprises a body 2 extending in a height direction from a top end 3 to a bottom end 4. An upper portion 2a of the body 2 is intended to be positioned above a ground level 5. A lower portion 2b of the body 2 is intended to be positioned below the ground level 5.

[0105] The support 2 is driven into the ground, preferably by a vibrating system. Thus, no holes or anchoring concrete structure is needed to install the supports 2.

[0106] The support 2 comprises at least one wing element 6 arranged on a side surface 8 of the body 2. Here, two wing elements 6 are arranged on opposite sides of the body 2. The wing elements 6 are arranged between a front side 7 and a back side 9 of the support 2.

[0107] Here, the local top end of the wing elements 6 is located at a distance, D, below the ground level 5, thus fully concealing the wing elements in the ground. However, the local top end of the wing elements 6 may also be located at a distance above the ground level, thus partly concealing the wing elements in the ground.

[0108] Fig. 2 shows a cross section of the wing elements 6 along the line A-A shown in fig. 1. The wing elements 6 are mounted to the body 2 by fasteners 10. Here, two mounting points are shown, but more or less mounting points may be used. Fig. 3 shows the support 2 and wing elements 6 seen from the top end 3. Here, the body 2 has a H-shaped profile, but it may also have a tube profile. The body 2 extends in a width direction from a first side to a second side. Further, the body 2 extends in a length direction from the front side 7 to the back side 9. The body 2 has a height Hs, a width Wsand a length Ls.

[0109] Here, a first wing element 6a is arranged at the first side and a second wing element 6b is arranged at the second side. Each wing element 6a, 6b has a U-shaped profile comprising a base portion 11 and two opposite facing wing portions 12. Each wing portion 12 has a local height Hwand a local width Ww. The wing element 6 further has a local length Lw. The first and second wing elements 6a, 6b together has a total width Ww-w.

[0110] Here, the local length Lwof the wing elements 6a, 6b is less than the length Lsof the body 2. However, the wing elements 6a, 6b may have a local length Lwcorresponding to the length Lsof the body 2.

[0111] Fig. 4 shows a second embodiment of the support 2 where a first set 13 of wing elements 6 is arranged at a first distance Di from the bottom end 4. At least a second set 14 of wing elements 6 is arranged at a second distance D2 from the bottom end 4.

[0112] Here, the dimensions of the first wing element 6a are equal to the dimension of the second wing element 6b. The first and second wing elements 6a, 6b form part of the first set 13. However, the first and second wing elements 6a, 6b may have different dimensions.

[0113] Further, the dimensions of the first wing element 6a are equal to the dimension of a third wing element 6c of the second set 14. However, the first and third wing elements 6a, 6c may have different dimensions.

[0114] Fig. 5 shows a wing element 6 with a U-shaped profile, having a local top end 15 and a local bottom end 16. The local top end 15 is connected to the local bottom end 16 via a local side edge 17. Here, the local top end 15 has a straight edge profile arranged perpendicularly relative to the height direction of the base portion 11.

[0115] Further, the local bottom end 16 has a straight edge profile arranged at an inclined angle relative to the height direction of the base portion 11. Thus, a local maximum height of the wing element 6 is situated at the base portion 11.

[0116] Fig. 6 shows a first arrangement of two wing elements 6’ with an L-shaped profile. Each wing element 6’ has a base portion 11’ and one wing portion 12’.

[0117] Here, the two wing elements 6’ are arranged front-to-front so that they together form a U-shaped profile. The two base portions 11’ are mounted together via the fasteners 10.

[0118] Fig. 7 shows a second arrangement of the two wing elements 6’. Here, the wing elements 6’ are arranged on opposite side surfaces 8 of the body 2. Here, the body 2 is omitted for illustrative purposes.

[0119] The wing portion 12’ of the first wing element 6a is arranged at the front side 7 of the body 2. The wing portion 12’ of the second wing element 6b is arranged at the back side 9 of the body 2.

[0120] Fig. 8 shows a set of wing elements arranged relative to each other and comprising two wing elements 6, 6’ with different profiles. A first wing element 6a has an overall U- shaped profile with two wing portions 12. A second wing element 6b has an overall L- shaped profile with a single wing portion 12’.

[0121] Fig. 9 shows a third arrangement of the two wing elements 6’ where the two wing elements 6’ are orientated in the same direction. Here, both wing portions 12’ of the two wing elements 6’ are arranged at the front side 7 or back side 9 of the body 2.

[0122] Fig. 10 shows two wing elements 6’ orientated in different directions. The first wing element 6a forms part of a first set and the third wing element 6c forms part of a second set. Here, the first wing element 6a has an overall L-shaped profile where the wing portion 12’ is oriented at the front side 7. Further, the third wing element 6c has an overall L-shaped profile where the wing portion 12’ is oriented at the back side 9.

[0123] Fig. 11 shows the wing element 6 with two alternative embodiments of a top element. The top element is arranged at the local top end 15 of the wing element 6 and acts as a shelf for a lowermost barrier or wall element (see fig. 15).

[0124] The top element may be shaped as a solid top portion 18, which closes off the top of the wing element 6. Alternatively, the top element may be shaped as one or more rods 18’, which extend between the opposite facing wing portions 12.

[0125] Fig. 12 shows an alternative embodiment of the wing element 19. The wing element 19 comprises a base portion 20 having two opposite facing mounting flanges. A separate wing portion 21 is mounted to each of the mounting flanges via fasteners (not shown). Here, the wing element 19 has an overall U-shaped profile.

[0126] Fig. 13 shows the wing element 6” with a T-shaped profile, where the base portion 11” comprises single wing portion 12” extending along a centre line on the side surface of the base portion 11”.

[0127] Fig. 14 shows an alternative embodiment of the wing element 19’, where the base portion 20’ has an L-shaped profile with two legs connected to each other. Further, the wing portion 21’ also has an L-shaped profile with two legs connected to each other. The wing portion 21’ and the base portion 20’ are arranged back-to-back to form an overall T-shaped profile. One leg of the wing portion 21’ is mounted to one leg of the base portion 20’ by fasteners (not shown).

[0128] Fig. 15 shows a further alternative embodiment of the wing element 19”, where the base portion 20” has a T-shaped profile. A single mounting flange extends along a centre line of a side surface of the base portion 20”. A single wing portion 21” is then mounted to this mounting flange via fasteners (not shown).

[0129] Fig. 16 shows the fasteners 10 with a cover element 22 arranged at each location of the fasteners 10. The cover elements 22 are here shaped as an elongated element, where one portion of the element is bend so that it projects from a side surface of the base portion 11.

[0130] When the support 1 is driven into the ground, the soil will bend the projecting profile further untill it contacts the head or free end of the fastener 10. Thus, the cover element 22 will protect the fasteners against rocks, debris or the like located in the ground.

[0131] Fig. 17 shows the wing elements 6 with means 23 for mounting external components.

[0132] The means 23 are arranged along the side edge 17 and further along the top end 15. The means 23 are here shaped as mounting holes for mounting one or more external components, such as skirts.

[0133] Fig. 18 shows a barrier 24 according to the present invention. The barrier 24 comprises a plurality of supports 1 anchored into the ground and spaced apart by a predetermined distance. One or more barrier elements 25 are positioned between each pair of adjacent supports 1. The lowermost barrier element 25 may rest on the shelf formed by the top element 18, 18’ arranged at the top end 15 of the wing elements 6.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A support (1) for anchoring into the ground, having a body (2) extending in a height direction from a top end (3) to a bottom end (4), the body (2) extending further in a width direction and in a length direction, the body (2) having a H-shaped profile and the body (2) comprising a front side (7) and a back side (9) and a side surface (8) arranged between the front side (7) and the back side (9), the support (1) comprising at least one wing element (6) arranged on at least one side surface (8) of the body (2) and extending in the height direction, wherein the at least one wing element (6) comprises a base portion (11) connected to at least one wing portion (12), wherein the base portion or wing portion (11, 12) is configured to be mounted to the body (2) by fasteners.

2. The support according to claim 1, characterised in that the at least one wing element (6’, 6”) has an overall L- or T-shaped profile comprising a first wing portion (12’, 12”) connected to one side edge or a side surface of the base portion (11’, 11”), the first wing portion (12’, 12”) having a local height and local width.

3. The support according to claim 2, characterised in that the at least one wing element (6) further comprises a second wing portion (12) connected to an opposite side edge of the base portion (11) to an overall U-shaped profile, the second wing portion (12) also having a local height and local width.

4. The support according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that the support (1) comprises a first wing element (6a) and at least a second wing element (6b) arranged at an angle relative to each other in a circumference direction, and / or a first wing element (6a) and at least a third wing element (6c) arranged at individual distances from the top or bottom end (3, 4).

5. The support according to claim 4, characterised in that the local length, the local height and / or the local width of the first wing element (6a) is equal to or differs from the local length, the local height and / or the local width of the second or third wing element (6b, 6c).

6. The support according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterised in that a local length of the at least one wing element (6) corresponds to or is less than a length of the body (2).

7. The support according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterised in that the at least one wing portion (12) has a local top end (15) and a local bottom end (16), wherein the local bottom end (16) is arranged at an inclined angle relative to the body (2) in the height direction.

8. The support according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterised in that the at least one wing element (6) further comprises a top element (18, 18’) arranged at the top end (15), preferably the top element (18, 18’) is configured to act as a shelf for an external barrier or wall element (22) or to act as a mounting bracket for mounting an external shelf element.

9. The support according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterised in that the at least one wing portion (12”) of the at least one wing element (6”) is configured to be mounted to the base portion (11 ”) by fasteners, and / or the at least one wing portion (12) and the base portion (11) of the at least one wing element (6) are formed as a continuous element.

10. The support according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterised in that the base portion (11”) of the at least one wing element (6”) is formed by the body (2) of the support (1).

11. The support according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterised in that the support (1) further comprises at least one cover element (19) arranged relative to the fasteners, wherein the at least one cover element (19) is configured to protect the fasteners during installation.

12. The support according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterised in that the at least one wing portion (12) comprises means (20) for mounting one or more external components.

13. The support according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterised in that at least the wing portions (12) of the at least one wing element (6) is made of a metallic material, a composite material or a plastic material.

14. A barrier, such as a noise barrier or a security fence, comprising a plurality of upright supports (1) spaced apart and anchored into the ground, where one or more barrier elements (22) are positioned between each adjacent pair of supports (1), each barrier element (22) has a front side and a back side, characterised in that the supports (1) are configured as described in any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. A method of installing supports, comprising:- providing a plurality of supports (1) as described in any one of claims 1 to 13,- lifting one support (1) into an upright position relative to an installation location using a lifting unit, and- driving the one support (1) into the ground, preferably by vibrations.

16. The method according to claim 15, characterised in that the at least one wing element (6) is mounted to the body (2) of the one support (1) before driving the one support (1) into the ground or before lifting the one support (1) into the upright position.

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