Security column

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to protective building elements and methods of manufacturing and providing such protective building elements. Protective building elements as disclosed herein may be utilized in various applications related, but not limited to, those requiring protection of perimeter security devices and associated power and / or data connections from ballistic, blast and physical attack.

Description

SECURITY COLUMN

[0001] This application is an international patent application that claims the benefit of priority and is entitled to the filing date pursuant to Article 8 of the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application 63 / 674,421, filed July 23, 2024, the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0002] The security of utilities, buildings, and structures are many times taken for granted, whether they are government embassies, commercial offices, universities / schools, airports, entertainment / sporting venues, shopping malls and hospitals, for example. While international terrorist attacks make the news, such events are typically never expected at the local or national level. Countries are starting to realize the importance of strong homeland and border security. Governments, utility companies’ electricity, oil, and gas, and other critical infrastructure buildings are re-evaluating the safety and security of their personnel and physical assets. The world has changed, making safety and security a high priority for practically everyone.

[0003] Accordingly, utility companies, gas companies, water companies, government agencies, commercial companies, and individuals are taking into consideration various ballistic, blast, forced entry, seismic, and weather hazards (e.g., hurricanes, storms, tornadoes) in considering building construction materials. For example, various fences and / or walls are typically provided along at least a portion of a perimeter of an asset that is being protected. Such fences and walls are conventionally provided and made of one or any combination of brick, reinforced concrete, wood, steel and chain-link, for example. Their usage typically requires a combination of different materials or multiple layers of material, for example, such as various combinations of aramid fibers, synthetic fiber, laminated sheets of special plastics, polycarbonates, carbon fibers, basalt which all require multiple layers and need to be used in conjunction with another material to provide certain levels of protection, which does not normally include blast protection. Furthermore, available conventional systems normally only cover one threat.

[0004] Improved materials, protective building compositions, structures and systems are the subject of the applicant’s co-pending application UE3BP1-0002USP1, titled “Protective Building Compositions, Uses, Products and Systems”.

[0005] In addition to physical barriers such as fences and walls, perimeter protection frequently includes use of perimeter security devices, for example security video cameras, perimeter lighting, motion sensors, alarm systems, intrusion detection systems and perimeter access control systems. For example, security devices may be mounted on free-standing posts external to aInternational Patent Application UE3BP1-0004WO Dillon, et al., Security Columnperimeter of an asset that is being protected, or they may be attached to an interior or exterior element of a fence or wall. Such security devices are difficult, time consuming, and expensive to install, and the installation may be less secure and robust as compared to devices mounted more integrally with the physical barriers. In addition, such security devices may rely on physical connectivity to other elements of a security system, for example by means of power and I or communications cables. It is often difficult, time consuming, and expensive to make such physical connections, which may require complex routing of power or communication cables. In addition, where such power or communication cables are exposed, they may be less secure and robust.

[0006] The present disclosure sets forth structures which simplify installation of perimeter security devices and make the installation of such devices more secure and robust. In particular, the present disclosure provides structures that allow for rapid, secure, and robust installation of perimeter security devices to supports or mountings. Additionally, or alternatively, the present disclosure sets forth structures that enable efficient, secure, and robust provisioning of power and / or communication for perimeter security devices.

[0007] The present disclosure relates to protective building elements and methods of manufacturing / providing same. Protective building elements as disclosed herein may be utilized in various applications related, but not limited to, those requiring protection of perimeter security devices and associated power and / or data connections from ballistic, blast and physical attack.SUMMARY

[0008] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a protective building element comprising one or more internal conduits for power and / or communications cabling. In an embodiment of this aspect, the protected building element is in the form of a column, optionally having a core channel. The column may, for example, have a square or rectangular section. This provides a secure structure on which perimeter security devices can be efficiently, securely, and robustly mounted, cabling can be efficiently, securely, and robustly routed, and the perimeter security devices and associated cabling run through the internal conduits are better protected from the elements and from physical attack. In some embodiments, the column is free-standing, and may be situated, for example, exterior to a perimeter wall. In some embodiments, the column is provided with one or more external and vertical grooves for engagement with protective panels, for example when the column is intended to form part of a protective walling system. The vertical grooves may be on opposite sides of the column or on adjacent sides if the column is to form a corner of a wall.International Patent Application UE3BP1-0004WC Dillon, et al., Security Column

[0009] In an embodiment, the column is formed from a composite material comprising cement, an aggregate and water. For example, include a mixture of cement, sand and / or stone, carpet particles as well as rubber particles and a plurality of admixtures. In particular embodiments, the composition can include at least three admixtures and water. This provides a pourable cement slurry that can be utilized as an in-fill material as well as poured into a mold of a desired shape to provide a building block or building panel having desired dimensions. Suitable composite materials are disclosed in the applicant’s co-pending application UE3BP1-0002USP1, titled “Protective Building Compositions, Uses, Products and Systems”.

[0010] In some embodiments, the composite material is reinforced, for example the composite material is reinforced with a steel cage. Such reinforcement is known to the person of skill in the art, for example in the context of reinforcement bars and cages (rebar) for concrete structures. In other embodiments, the composite material is reinforced with one or more fibers selected from steel fiber, glass fibers, textile fibers, polyfibers, or a combination thereof.

[0011] In some embodiments, the column comprises a mounting bracket for attachment of one or more perimeter security devices, wherein the mounting bracket is secured to an upper surface of the column and wherein the mounting bracket comprises an internal space that abuts the one or more internal conduits, thus allowing cabling for the device or devices to run between the column and the mounting bracket without impediment. The mounting bracket can be made of any suitable material, for example steel tubing having a circular or square cross section. In an embodiment, the mounting bracket may comprise a base plate that is affixed to the upper surface of the column, for example using suitable bolts, a vertical element and a horizontal element forming a T-bar. The horizontal member may extend beyond the exterior dimensions of the column.

[0012] Any known type of perimeter security device can be attached to the mounting bracket. For example, the one or more perimeter security devices may be selected from security video cameras, perimeter lighting, motion sensors, alarm systems, intrusion detection systems and perimeter access control systems. Power and or communication cables for each device can be run internally through the mounting bracket and onwards into the column, providing protection for substantially the entire length of the cables.

[0013] In some embodiments, the column is further provided with a cap, which lies between the upper surface of the column and the mounting bracket. Typically, the cap includes one or more apertures that coincide with the internal conduits present in the column and the internal structure of the mounting bracket to accommodate the required power and communication cables. TheInternational Patent Application UE3BP1-0004WC Dillon, et al., Security Columncap may be made of the same material as the column or a different material. The cap may extend beyond or overhang the external dimensions of the column on one, more than one or all sides.

[0014] In an embodiment, the column comprises an aperture for mounting a junction box, wherein the junction box provides for connecting one or more power and / or communications cables to the one or more perimeter security devices. In an embodiment, the aperture is on an inside face of the column, away from potential attack, and at a convenient height for user interaction. A junction box, for example a secure enclosure, can be secured within the aperture, for example using brackets and suitable fixings. The junction box provides adaptability, for example by permitting configuration of connections between a power supply and communications cabling and the one or more perimeter security devices.

[0015] In an embodiment, separate conduits for power and communications cables are provided below the junction box and a single conduit is provided above the junction box extending to the upper surface of the column. That is, all cabling running between the junction box and the upper surface of the column, and then on to the mounting bracket and one or more perimeter security devices is run through a common conduit.

[0016] In an embodiment the single conduit above the junction box is (i) a flexible conduit, and / or (ii) aligned with and in proximity to the core channel. A flexible conduit allows the conduit to bend around reinforcing elements, for example a rebar cage, and may be positioned in the required orientation before the composite material is formed in the mold. A conduit aligned with and in proximity to the core channel of the column allows reinforcing elements such as a rebar cage to be positioned around the core channel and conduit before the composite material is formed in the mold and may provide an additional degree of protection for the conduit.

[0017] An additional aspect of the present disclosure provides a protective walling system comprising at least two columns of the first aspect and at least one protective panel disposed between the columns. Any number of columns and panels can be arranged to provide, for example a linear wall, or a complete perimeter wall surrounding an asset that requires protection.

[0018] In an embodiment, the protective walling system, further comprises at least one mounting bracket secured to an upper surface of at least one of the columns and at least one perimeter security device secured to the at least one mounting bracket. In practice, more than one column, multiple columns, or even all columns of the protective walling system will be provided with mounts and perimeter security devices. Each column, or each column provided with a mounting brackets and external security device(s), may be provided with devices of the same or of aInternational Patent Application UE3BP1-0004WC Dillon, et al., Security Columndifferent type. For example, some columns may be provided with security cameras and other columns provided with motion sensors or security lighting.

[0019] In some embodiments, the protective walling system, further comprises one or more connection boxes, wherein each connection box comprises an aperture to receive power and / or communications cabling from at least one of the columns and one or more further apertures to provide power and / or communications connections to adjacent connection boxes. For example, each column provided with perimeter security device(s) may be associated with a connection box, allowing power to be distributed to all devices and enabling communication to and from all devices. In an embodiment, at least one connection box provides connection to a power source, for example a mains electricity connection, and / or a communication control center for controlling and managing the perimeter security devices.

[0020] In an embodiment, each connection box is located below the column from which it receives power and / or communications cabling. For example, the connection box may be below or adjacent to the base of the relevant column and may be completely or partially underground.

[0021] In a further aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of producing a protective building element comprising one or more internal conduits for power and / or communications cabling composite material comprising cement, comprising (a) forming a mold comprising providing the required shape, (b) pouring a composite material slurry comprising cement, an aggregate and water into the mold, (c) allowing the composite material to harden, and (d) removing the mold. For example, the conduits may be formed using mold elements that are removed after the composite material has hardened. Alternatively, conduit elements may be retained and not removed, for example if flexible conduits are used, as described in respect of the first aspect.

[0022] In an embodiment, the method may comprise any one or more of the following steps: a. Determining the internal and external dimensions of a form;b. Preparing and assembling a form corresponding to the determined dimensions; c. Confirming the form is correctly aligned, e.g. to provide right angles where required; d. Positioning blockouts corresponding to internal apertures, conduits and channels in the final structure, confirming correct placement and securing blockouts to prevent movement during pouring of the composite material slurry;e. Ensuring all forms are supported, secured and / or braced so as to maintain appropriate position, shape and levels during pouring of the composite material slurry;International Patent Application UE3BP1-0004WO Dillon, et al., Security Columnf. Optionally lining the form with a form liner, ensuring the liner is correctly positioned and free of defects that might transfer to the finished product;g. Applying a suitable form release agent;h. Adding and ensuring correct positioning of any reinforcing elements, e.g. rebar cages; i. Closing the form system;j. Mixing a composite material as disclosed herein;k. Optionally adding fiber reinforcement to the composite material;l. Pouring the composite material into the form;m. Allowing the composite material to harden;n. Removing the form and and / or any supporting structures not incorporated in the final product; ando. Confirming that the final product meets the required specifications for same and / or internal and external dimensions.

[0023] Suitable materials are described above in relation to the first aspect and are disclosed in the applicant’s co-pending application UE3BP1-0002USP1, titled “Protective Building Compositions, Uses, Products and Systems”.

[0024] In an embodiment of this aspect, the protected building element is in the form of a column, optionally having a core channel.

[0025] In an embodiment, wherein a steel cage and / or one or more fibers selected from steel fiber, glass fibers, textile fibers, polyfibers, or a combination thereof are added to the mold prior to step (b).

[0026] In an embodiment, wherein the protective building element is produced as a single piece, and mot made in multiple parts which are subsequently joined. This may provide for greater structural integrity and avoid potential weaknesses facilitating access to cabling present within the internal conduits.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate aspects of the disclosed subject matter in at least one of its exemplary embodiments, which are further defined in detail in the following description. Features, elements, and aspects of the disclosure are referenced by numerals with like numerals in different drawings representing the same, equivalent, or similar features, elements, or aspects, in accordance withInternational Patent Application UE3BP1-0004WC Dillon, et al., Security Columnone or more embodiments. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles herein described and provided by exemplary embodiments of the invention. More generally, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the drawings are schematic in nature and are not to be taken literally or to scale in terms of material configurations, sizes, thicknesses, and other attributes of an apparatus according to aspects of the present invention and its components or features unless specifically set forth herein. In such drawings:

[0028] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a security column disclosed herein;

[0029] FIG. 2 shows a vertical cross-section of FIG. 1 , taken at 2-2;

[0030] FIG. 3 shows a vertical cross-section of FIG. 2, taken at 3-3;

[0031] FIG. 4 shows a horizontal cross-section of FIG. 2, taken at 4-4;

[0032] FIG. 5 shows a horizontal cross-section of FIG. 2, taken at 5-5;

[0033] FIG. 6 shows a plan view of a security column disclosed herein illustrating a mounting bracket provided with various perimeter security devices;

[0034] FIG. 7 shows a plan view of a security column disclosed herein illustrating a mounting bracket provided with various perimeter security devices; and

[0035] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a security column disclosed herein installed as part of a perimeter wall.Listing of Reference Numbers Associated with DrawingsRef. No. Element10 Security column12 First side of security column 1014 Second side of security column 1016 Back face of security column 1018 Front face of security column 1022 First groove of first side 1224 Second groove of second side 1430 Back face aperture of back face 1640 Junction box50 Lower conduit of security column 1060 Upper conduit of security column 10International Patent Application UE3BP1-0004WC Dillon, et al., Security Column62 Upper conduit of security column 1070 Cap of security column 1080 Mounting bracket of security column 1082 Base plate of mounting bracket 8084 Vertical section of mounting bracket 8086 Horizonal section of mounting bracket 8088 Interior channel of mounting bracket 8090 Core channel of security column 10100 Connection box102 First side aperture of connection box 100104 Second side aperture of connection box 100106 Upper aperture of connection box 100112 First underground conduit114 Second underground conduit200 Perimeter security device202 LiDAR object detection device204 Sound detection device206 Thermal and / or visual imaging device208 Radar object detection device210 Security lighting212 Thermal imaging detection device214 Motion detection device216 Panoramic visual imaging device218 Directional visual imaging device220 Audio device300 Perimeter wall panel400 Security barrier systemDETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] Disclosed herein is a protective building element comprising one or more internal conduits for power and / or communications cabling. An exemplary protective building element is in the form of a column and can be used protect power and / or communications cabling to and from one or more perimeter security devices such as security video cameras, perimeter lighting, motion sensors, alarm systems, intrusion detection systems and perimeter access control systems. The protective building element, e.g. the column, typically provides structures and features that enable rapid, efficient, secure, and robust installation of perimeter security devices including associated cabling for power or communications, and improved protection for the cabling and for the perimeter security devices, for example attempts to disable or destroy the devices.

[0037] A column disclosed herein is intended to form part of a security barrier system comprising alternating security columns and perimeter wall panels which, in combination, define a securityInternational Patent Application UE3BP1-0004WC Dillon, et al., Security Columnperimeter wall. As shown in FIGS. 1-7 an exemplary security column 10 is a rectangularly-shaped structure with a width, length, and height and having a first side 12, a second side 14, a back face 16, and a front face 18. First side 12 is opposite second side 14, while back face 16 is opposite front face 18 with back and front faces 16, 18 each being perpendicular to first and second sides 12, 14. As best seen in FIGS. 1 & 5, in some embodiments, when security column 10 is used as an interior column, first and second sides 12, 14 have first and second lateral grooves 22, 24 for engaging with each side of a perimeter wall panel. In some embodiments, when security column 10 is used as a corner column, first side 12 and front face 16, have first and second lateral grooves 22, 24 for engaging with each side of a perimeter wall panel. Such engagement between security column 10 and the perimeter wall panel provide integrity of the security barrier system in the face of ballistic, blast, seismic or weather hazards, or in the event of physical attack.

[0038] Although depicted as a four sided structure, security column 10 can be any shape with the proviso that the shape of security column 10 is configured to properly receive a perimeter wall panel. Non-limiting examples of a shape of security column 10 include a polygonal shape, such as, e.g., a triangular shape, a square shape, a rectangular shape, a pentagonal shape, a hexagonal shape, a heptagonal shape or an octagonal shape; a star polygonal shape, such as, e.g., a pentagrammic shape, a heptagramic shape, an octagramic shape or decagramic shape; or a closed curved shape such as, e.g., a circular shape, an ovoidal shape, an oblong shape, or any other closed curved shape. In some embodiments, when security column 10 is a pentagonally-shaped structure with a width, length, and height and used as a corner column, pentagonal-shaped security column 10 has a first side 12, a second side 14, a first back face 16a, a second back face 16b, and a front face 18. First side 12 is opposite first back face 16a, while second side 14 is opposite second back face 16b with front face 16 being between first and second sides 12, 14. In some embodiments, when pentagonal-shaped security column 10 is used as a corner column, first side 12 and front face 16, have first and second lateral grooves 22, 24 for engaging with each side of a perimeter wall panel.

[0039] Referring to FIGS. 1-3, back face 16 of security column 10 is provided with a back face aperture 30 for installing a junction box 40 which houses connections between power and communications cabling entering security column 10 from underneath which is accommodated in one or more lower conduits 50. Although depicted as having four lower conduits 50, security column 10 can have one or more lower conduits 50, such as, e.g., one lower conduit 50, two lower conduits 50, three lower conduits 50, four lower conduits 50, five lower conduits 50, or more as required by the power and electrical needs of a particular security column 10. In some embodiments, when security column 10 is used as a corner column, second lateral groove 24 of front face 16 will be positioned near second side 14 so that when a perimeter wall panel isInternational Patent Application UE3BP1-0004WO Dillon, et al., Security Columnengaged, the perimeter wall panel lies in front of junction box 40 so that junction box 40 is located within the interior of a security barrier system.

[0040] Above junction box 40, cabling to one or more perimeter security devices 200 is typically accommodated by one or more upper conduits 60 which runs from junction box 40 to a desired location for mounting one or more perimeter security devices 200. One or more upper conduits 60, 62 can be run to an upper surface of security column 10, to a surface of first side 12 of security column 10, to a surface of second side 14 of security column 10, to a surface of back face 16 of security column 10, and to a surface of front face 18 of security column 10, or any combination thereof. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1 -3, upper conduit 60 runs to an upper surface of security column 10. Similarly, FIGS. 2 & 3 depicts upper conduit 62 runs to a surface of back face 16 of security column 10. Although depicted as having two upper conduits 60, security column 10 can have one or more upper conduits 60, such as, e.g., one upper conduit 60, two upper conduits 60, three upper conduits 60, four upper conduits 60, five upper conduits 60, or more as required by the power and electrical needs of a particular security column 10.

[0041] An upper surface of security column 10 is provided with a cap 70 which covers the upper surface of security column 10 and can serve to prevent physical access to the interior of security column 10 and / or to protect the interior of security column 10 from water ingress and the like. In some embodiments, cap 70 can extend past column 10, as shown in FIG. 1 where cap 70 overhangs the upper surface of first and second sides 12, 14, and back and front faces 16, 18. In some embodiments, cap 70 can be flush with security column 10, as shown in FIGS. 6 & 7 where cap 70 does not extend past the upper surface of first and second sides 12, 14, and back and front faces 16, 18.

[0042] As illustrated in FIGS. 1-3, 6 8( 7, a mounting bracket 80 is affixed to cap 70 of security column 10. via a base plate 82. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIGS. 1-3, 6 8( 7, mounting bracket 80 also comprises a vertical section 84 and an internally connected horizontal section 86. Mounting bracket 80 is typically oriented with horizontal section 86 funning from the inside to the outside face of security column 10 (i.e. perpendicular to a wall) to enable suspension of one or more perimeter security devices 200 beyond the line of a panel wall of a security barrier system. Mounting bracket 80 may be provided with one or more interior channels 88 to enable connectivity between one or more perimeter security devices 200 and the power and / or communications cabling housed within mounting bracket 80.

[0043] Although depicted as four sided structures, vertical and horizontal sections 84, 86 of mounting bracket 80 can be any shape with the proviso that the shape of vertical and horizontalInternational Patent Application UE3BP1-0004WC Dillon, et al., Security Columnsections 84, 86 is configured to properly receive one or more perimeter security devices 200 as well as the power and / or communications cabling. Non-limiting examples of a shape of vertical and horizontal sections 84, 86 include a polygonal shape, such as, e.g., a triangular shape, a square shape, a rectangular shape, a pentagonal shape, a hexagonal shape, a heptagonal shape or an octagonal shape; a star polygonal shape, such as, e.g., a pentagrammic shape, a heptagramic shape, an octagramic shape or decagramic shape; or a closed curved shape such as, e.g., a circular shape, an ovoidal shape, an oblong shape, or any other closed curved shape.

[0044] Further details of the interior of exemplary column 10 are shown in the vertical sections of FIG. 2 and FIG. 3. FIG. 2 shows the interior of column 10 viewed from the direction of the back face 16 while FIG. 3 shows the interior of security column 10 viewed from first side 12. As illustrated, lower conduits 50 run from the base of security column 10 to back face aperture 30 where each lower conduit 50 connects to junction box 40 and upper conduit 60, which connects to junction box 40 extends upward from back face aperture 30 towards the upper surface of security column 10. As best seen in FIG. 3, upper conduit 60 extending upward towards the upper surface of security column 10 curves towards a core channel 90 of security column 10, an exits the top of security column 10 and cap 70 at an exit point that aligns with one or more interior channels 88 of mounting bracket 80, thus providing a contiguous passage for power and / or communication cabling between security column 10 and mounting bracket 80. This alignment of upper conduit 60 and one or more interior channels 88 of mounting bracket 80 can also be seen in FIG. 4 and FIG. 5, which horizontal cross-sections of security column 10. FIG. 5 additionally shows the location of internal and external structures that are hidden by cap 70 in FIG. 4. In particular, FIG. 5 shows core channel 90 of security column 10, first and second lateral grooves 22, 24 for engaging with perimeter wall panels, and the locations of upper conduit 60 above back face aperture 30 for junction box 40 and lower conduits 50 below back face aperture 30 for junction box 40.

[0045] The placement of one or more perimeter security devices 200 can be located both on mounting bracket 80 as well as security column 10. For example, as shown in FIG. 6 one or more perimeter security devices 200 can be mounted on each end of vertical section 84 of mounting bracket 80, along vertical section 84 of mounting bracket 80, along horizontal section 86 of mounting bracket 80, and on security column 10 itself. In addition, a wide variety of perimeter security devices 200 can be employed. Non-limiting examples include one or more imaging devices like a visual imaging device (directional or panoramic) including a video camera, a thermal imaging device, a visual / thermal imaging device, an optical gas imaging device, one or more one or more object detection devices like a radar or a Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR), one or more sound detection device, one or more motion detection device, one or more security lights,International Patent Application UE3BP1-0004WC Dillon, et al., Security Columnone or more audio devices like an alarm or a speaker, or one or more wireless sensors. For example, FIG. 6 shows first side view 12 of security column 10 showing a variety of security devices 200 that can be mounted on mounting bracket 80, with LiDAR object detection device 202 and sound detection device 204 attached to horizontal section 86 of mounting bracket 80 overhanging back face 16 of security column 10, thermal and / or visual imaging device 206, radar object detection device 208, security lighting 210, and thermal imaging device 212 attached to horizontal section 86 of mounting bracket 80 overhanging front face 18 of security column 10, and a speaker 220 attached to vertical section 84 of mounting bracket 80. Additional perimeter security devices 200 are mounted on column 10, motion detection device 214 and panoramic visual imaging device 216 attached to back face 16 of column 10. An alternative arrangement is shown in FIG. 7 which shows back face 16 view of security column 10 having mounting bracket 80 provided with two directional visual imaging devices 218. It will be understood that the selection of one or more perimeter security devices 200 and the specific combinations of devices 200 attached to mounting bracket 80 and security column 10 can be varied to meet user requirements. It will also be understood that the positioning of one or more perimeter security devices 200 to mounting bracket 80 and security column 10 can be varied to meet user requirements.

[0046] As has been noted above, security columns disclosed herein in combination with perimeter wall panels for a perimeter security wall which comprises a security barrier system. An exemplary arrangement is shown in FIG. 8, which provides a schematic illustration of security column 10 installed as part of a perimeter wall panel 300 of security barrier system 400, viewed from an interior area of security barrier system 400. FIG. 8 also shows the location of a connection box 100 below the base of security column 10. As illustrated, one or more lower conduits 50 of security column 10 are affixed using standard connecting systems to one or more upper apertures 106 of connection box 100 creating one or more continuous conduits to house power and / or communications cabling. In some embodiments, each of the one or more apertures 106 is fitted with a female adaptor while each of the one or more lower conduits 50 is fitted with a male adaptor. Connection box 100 also has first and second side apertures 102, 104 linked to first and second underground conduits 112, 114 using standard connecting systems and providing power and / or communications cabling connections to adjacent connection boxes 100. In some embodiments, first and second underground conduits 112, 114 are fitted with female adaptors while to first and second underground conduits 112, 114 are fitted with male adaptors. This allows each security column 10 that is provided with one or more perimeter security devices 200 to be connected with other such security columns 10 within security barrier system 400 as a whole, allowing power to be distributed to all perimeter security devices 200 and enabling communication to and from all perimeter security devices 200. It is envisaged that provision of connection boxes 100 and / or firstInternational Patent Application UE3BP1-0004WC Dillon, et al., Security Columnand second underground conduits 112, 114 will provide an integrated security system including the option of connection to a power source, for example a mains electricity connection, and / or a communication control center for controlling and managing one or more perimeter security devices 200.

[0047] Access to any or all connection boxes 100 may be provided via a suitable hatch or access port. For the purposes of maintaining security, access to connection boxes 100 is only available from inside a perimeter wall or is restricted by one or more locking mechanisms, to prevent unauthorized access and disconnection of one or more perimeter security devices 200.

[0048] It will be understood that the selection of one or more perimeter security devices 200 and the specific combinations of devices 200 attached to mounting bracket 80 can be varied to meet user requirements.

[0049] The present disclosure also includes a method of producing a protective building element or column of the present disclosure. The method typically comprises forming a protective building element or column comprising one or more internal conduits for power and / or communications cabling composite material comprising cement, by carrying out at least the steps (a) forming a mold comprising providing the required shape, (b) pouring a composite material slurry comprising cement, an aggregate and water into the mold, (c) allowing the composite material to harden, and (d) removing the mold. For example, the conduits may be formed using mold elements that are removed after the composite material has hardened. Alternatively, conduit elements may be retained and not removed, for example if flexible conduits are used, as described in respect of the first aspect.

[0050] It is envisaged that the method will comprise any one or more of the following steps: a. Determining the internal and external dimensions of a form;b. Preparing and assembling a form corresponding to the determined dimensions; c. Confirming the form is correctly aligned, e.g. to provide right angles where required; d. Positioning blockouts corresponding to internal apertures, conduits and channels in the final structure, confirming correct placement and securing blockouts to prevent movement during pouring of the composite material slurry;e. Ensuring all forms are supported, secured and / or braced so as to maintain appropriate position, shape and levels during pouring of the composite material slurry; f. Optionally lining the form with a form liner, ensuring the liner is correctly positioned and free of defects that might transfer to the finished product;g. Applying a suitable form release agent;International Patent Application UE3BP1-0004WC Dillon, et al., Security Columnh. Adding and ensuring correct positioning of any reinforcing elements, e.g. rebar cages; i. Closing the form system;j. Mixing a composite material as disclosed herein;k. Optionally adding fiber reinforcement to the composite material;l. Pouring the composite material into the form;m. Allowing the composite material to harden;n. Removing the form and and / or any supporting structures not incorporated in the final product; ando. Confirming that the final product meets the required specifications for same and / or internal and external dimensions.

[0051] Whilst the preparation and construction of the form to provide the specific design properties of the final product, e.g. a column of the present disclosure, and the composition of the composite material are based on the content of the present disclosure, the person of skill in the art will be familiar with general considerations of preparing and assembling forms and use of reinforcement from the manufacture of poured and molded concrete structures, reinforced concrete structures and the like. In the same way, the person of skill in the art is familiar with the use of form liners, form release agents, and general considerations for removing the form and releasing the final product.EXAMPLES

[0052] The following non-limiting examples are provided for illustrative purposes only in order to facilitate a more complete understanding of representative embodiments now contemplated. These examples should not be construed to limit any of the embodiments described in the present specification, including those pertaining to the security columns, perimeter wall panels, security barrier systems, or methods and uses disclosed herein.Example 1

[0053] Security columns according to the present disclosure have been made by molding a composite material as described herein including an internal steel rebar cage for reinforcement. A mold for a security column comprises four side panels, a top panel and a bottom panel. Initially side panels representing first side 12, back and front faces 16, 18 as well as top and bottom panels are assembled. Next, a sleeve used to form core channel 90 is positioned within the assembled box mold and rebar is placed in a manner that surrounds core channel 90. Junction box 40, one or more lower conduits 50, and one or more upper conduits 60 are then assembledInternational Patent Application UE3BP1-0004WC Dillon, et al., Security Columnin assembled box mold in a position adjacent to the side panel representing back face 16. In this example, a female adaptor is used to affix one or more lower conduits 50 and one or more upper conduits 60 to junction box 40. The remaining side panel representing second side 14 is then secured to seal the mold and a concrete slurry is pumped into the interior of the mold. After the concrete has cured, the mold is disassembled. Power and communications cabling were then run through security column 10 via junction box 40, one or more lower conduits 50, and one or more upper conduits 60. The security columns were rectangular in cross section with internal and external faces having a length of 20 inches and the side faces having a length of 26 inches. The column height, excluding the cap structure, was 96 inches. The columns were provided with grooves on either side for engagement with sections of a security wall, each groove being 4 inches wide and an aperture for receiving a junction box approximately 48 inches above the base of the column and approximately 7.5 inches wide by 3.75 inches high.

[0054] Different security columns were constructed with varying arrangements of internal conduits. For the lower conduits, one version of the column was constructed with five conduits below the aperture for the junction box, two flanking conduits and three central conduits arranged as a linear cluster. In another version of the security column, there were four equally spaced conduits below the aperture for the junction box. A further version had five conduits arranged as two planking pairs and one central conduit. In all versions, the conduits had internal dimensions of 2 inches by 2 inches.

[0055] Different arrangements of the upper conduit extending upwards from the junction box were also made. In one version 2 inch flexible conduit was bent around the rebar cage before addition of the composite material and the flexible conduit was left in place following hardening and removal of the mold elements. In another version using the same flexible conduit material, the upper conduit was arranged to run parallel to and close to the core channel of the column over substantially all of its length, so that the rebar cage could be fitted around the core channel and upper conduit.

[0056] During installation of a security barrier system, a perimeter trench is excavated and one or more connection boxes 100 and associated first and second underground conduits 112, 114 are installed and are then run through the installed one or more connection boxes 100 and associated first and second underground conduits 112, 114. One or more upper apertures 106 are then installed to one or more connection boxes 100 at positions where one or more security columns 10 will be located. Power and communications cabling were then run through the installed one or more upper apertures 106. At each position where security column 10 will be installed a pier foundation having a depth of 6-9 feet is formed by constructing a form around oneInternational Patent Application UE3BP1-0004WC Dillon, et al., Security Columnor more upper apertures 106 at that site, rebar is then installed in the form so that the rebar traverses the foundation form and extends above the foundation form and above ground level to a height that is approximately one-half the height of security column 10. Concrete is then poured into the foundation form and allowed to cure. A crane is then used to position security column 10 over an appropriate position and suspended so that the foundation rebar extending above ground level is inserted into hollow channel 90 of security column 10 but enough space is left to enable the power and communications cabling exiting from one or more lower conduits 50 at the base of security column 10 to be connected to power and communications cabling exiting from one or more upper apertures 106 of connection box 100. Once power and communications cabling is connected, security column 10 is then completed lowered on top of the foundation. Grout is then poured into hollow channel 90 from the top of upright security column 10 and allowed to set, thereby affixing security column 10 to the foundation.

[0057] The security columns were then fitted with an upper cap 70 which was 3 inches thick and measuring 22 inches by 28 inches, positioned to provide an overhang of 1 inch on all sides relative to the column dimension. Mounting bracket 80 is then installed to security column 10 by first running power and communications cabling exiting one or more upper conduits 60 through interior channels 88 of mounting bracket 80 and then installing mounting bracket 80 to security column 10 by securing base plate 82 of mounting bracket 80 to cap 70 security column 10. Mounting bracket 80 comprises a 16 by 22 inch steel base plate, and vertical section extending 24 inches above the base plate and a horizontal section 72 inches in length. The vertical and horizontal section 84, 86 were both constructed from 6 inch square steel tubing having a thickness of 3 / 16 inches. The mounting bracket was positioned such that the horizontal section overhung the external edge of the cap by 21 inches and overhung the internal edge by 23 inches., and core channel 90

[0058] Once mounting bracket 80 to security column 10, one or more perimeter security devices 200 are secured to security column 10 by connecting power and communications cabling exiting each perimeter security devices 200 to power and communications cabling exiting security column 10 and / or mounting bracket 80 and affixing each perimeter security devices 200 in place.

[0059] In closing, foregoing descriptions of embodiments of the present invention have been presented for the purposes of illustration and description. It is to be understood that, although aspects of the present invention are highlighted by referring to specific embodiments, one skilled in the art will readily appreciate that these described embodiments are only illustrative of the principles comprising the present invention and such examples are not limiting thereto. As such, the specific embodiments are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed. The use of any and all examples or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”)International Patent Application UE3BP1-0004WC Dillon, et al., Security Columnprovided herein is intended merely to better illuminate the present invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention otherwise claimed. No language in the present specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of the invention.

[0060] In addition, groupings of alternative embodiments, elements, steps and / or limitations of the present invention are not to be construed as limitations. Each such grouping may be referred to and claimed individually or in any combination with other groupings disclosed herein. It is anticipated that one or more alternative embodiments, elements, steps and / or limitations of a grouping may be included in, or deleted from, the grouping for reasons of convenience and / or patentability. When any such inclusion or deletion occurs, the specification is deemed to contain the grouping as modified, thus fulfilling the written description of all Markush groups used in the appended claims. In addition, all methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. Therefore, it should be understood that embodiments of the disclosed subject matter are in no way limited to a particular element, compound, composition, component, article, apparatus, methodology, use, protocol, step, and / or limitation described herein, unless expressly stated as such.

[0061] While aspects of the invention have been described with reference to at least one exemplary embodiment, it is to be clearly understood by those skilled in the art that the invention is not limited thereto. Furthermore, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that certain changes, modifications, permutations, alterations, additions, subtractions, and sub-combinations thereof can be made in accordance with the teachings herein without departing from the spirit of the present invention. It is intended that the following appended claims and claims hereafter introduced are interpreted to include all such changes, modifications, permutations, alterations, additions, subtractions, and sub-combinations as are within their true spirit and scope. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is not to be limited to that precisely as shown and described by this specification. Rather, the scope of the invention is to be interpreted only in conjunction with the appended claims and it is made clear, here, that the inventor(s) believe that the claimed subject matter is the invention.

[0062] Certain embodiments of the present invention are described herein, including the best mode known to the inventors for conducting the invention. Of course, variations on these described embodiments will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. The inventor expects skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate, and the inventors intend for the present invention to be practiced otherwise than specifically described herein. Accordingly, this invention includes all modifications andInternational Patent Application UE3BP1-0004WC Dillon, et al., Security Columnequivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the above-described embodiments in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the invention unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

[0063] The words, language, and terminology used in this specification is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments, elements, steps and / or limitations only and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention, which is defined solely by the claims. In addition, such words, language, and terminology are to be understood not only in the sense of their commonly defined meanings, but to include by special definition in this specification structure, material or acts beyond the scope of the commonly defined meanings. Thus, if an element, step or limitation can be understood in the context of this specification as including more than one meaning, then its use in a claim must be understood as being generic to all possible meanings supported by the specification and by the word itself.

[0064] The definitions and meanings of the elements, steps or limitations recited in a claim set forth below are, therefore, defined in this specification to include not only the combination of elements, steps or limitations which are literally set forth, but all equivalent structure, material or acts for performing substantially the same function in substantially the same way to obtain substantially the same result. In this sense it is therefore contemplated that an equivalent substitution of two or more elements, steps and / or limitations may be made for any one of the elements, steps or limitations in a claim set forth below or that a single element, step, or limitation may be substituted for two or more elements, steps and / or limitations in such a claim. Although elements, steps or limitations may be described above as acting in certain combinations and even initially claimed as such, it is to be expressly understood that one or more elements, steps and / or limitations from a claimed combination can in some cases be excised from the combination and that the claimed combination may be directed to a sub-combination or variation of a subcombination. As such, notwithstanding the fact that the elements, steps and / or limitations of a claim are set forth below in a certain combination, it must be expressly understood that the invention includes other combinations of fewer, more, or different elements, steps and / or limitations, which are disclosed in above combination even when not initially claimed in such combinations. Furthermore, insubstantial changes from the claimed subject matter as viewed by a person with ordinary skill in the art, now known or later devised, are expressly contemplated as being equivalently within the scope of the claims. Therefore, obvious substitutions now or later known to one with ordinary skill in the art are defined to be within the scope of the defined elements. Accordingly, the claims are thus to be understood to include what is specificallyInternational Patent Application UE3BP1-0004WC Dillon, et al., Security Columnillustrated and described above, what is conceptually equivalent, what can be obviously substituted and also what essentially incorporates the essential idea of the invention.

[0065] Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing a characteristic, item, quantity, parameter, property, term, and so forth used in the present specification and claims are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term “about.” As used herein, the term “about” means that the characteristic, item, quantity, parameter, property, or term so qualified encompasses a range of plus or minus ten percent above and below the value of the stated characteristic, item, quantity, parameter, property, or term. Similarly, as used herein, unless indicated to the contrary, the term “substantially” is a term of degree intended to indicate an approximation of the characteristic, item, quantity, parameter, property, or term so qualified, encompassing a range that can be understood and construed by those of ordinary skill in the art. Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in the specification and attached claims are approximations that may vary. At the very least, and not as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the scope of the claims, each numerical indication should at least be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques.

[0066] Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and values setting forth the broad scope of the invention are approximations, the numerical ranges and values set forth in the specific examples are reported as precisely as possible. Any numerical range or value, however, inherently contains certain errors necessarily resulting from the standard deviation found in their respective testing measurements. Unless the context dictates the contrary, all ranges set forth herein should be interpreted as being inclusive of their endpoints and open-ended ranges should be interpreted to include only commercially practical values. Recitation of numerical ranges of values herein is merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate numerical value falling within the range. Unless otherwise indicated herein, each individual value of a numerical range is incorporated into the present specification as if it were individually recited herein. Similarly, all lists of values should be considered as inclusive of intermediate values unless the context indicates the contrary.

[0067] Use of the terms “may” or “can” in reference to an embodiment or aspect of an embodiment also carries with it the alternative meaning of “may not” or “cannot.” As such, if the present specification discloses that an embodiment or an aspect of an embodiment may be or can be included as part of the inventive subject matter, then the negative limitation or exclusionary proviso is also explicitly meant, meaning that an embodiment or an aspect of an embodiment may not be or cannot be included as part of the inventive subject matter. In a comparable manner,International Patent Application UE3BP1-0004WC Dillon, et al., Security Columnuse of the term “optionally” in reference to an embodiment or aspect of an embodiment means that such embodiment or aspect of the embodiment may be included as part of the inventive subject matter or may not be included as part of the inventive subject matter. Whether such a negative limitation or exclusionary proviso applies will be based on whether the negative limitation or exclusionary proviso is recited in the claimed subject matter.

[0068] The terms “a,” “an,” “the” and similar references used in the context of describing the present invention (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. Further, ordinal indicators - such as, e.g., “first,” “second,” “third,” etc. - for identified elements are used to distinguish between the elements, and do not indicate or imply a required or limited number of such elements, and do not indicate a particular position or order of such elements unless otherwise specifically stated.

[0069] When used in the claims, whether as filed or added per amendment, the open-ended transitional term “comprising”, variations thereof such as, e.g., “comprise” and “comprises”, and equivalent open-ended transitional phrases thereof like “including”, “containing” and “having”, encompass all the expressly recited elements, limitations, steps, integers, and / or features alone or in combination with unrecited subject matter; the named elements, limitations, steps, integers, and / or features are essential, but other unnamed elements, limitations, steps, integers, and / or features may be added and still form a construct within the scope of the claim. Specific embodiments disclosed herein may be further limited in the claims using the closed-ended transitional phrases “consisting of’ or “consisting essentially of” (or variations thereof such as, e.g., “consist of”, “consists of”, “consist essentially of”, and “consists essentially of”) in lieu of or as an amendment for “comprising.” When used in the claims, whether as filed or added per amendment, the closed-ended transitional phrase “consisting of” excludes any element, limitation, step, integer, or feature not expressly recited in the claims. The closed-ended transitional phrase “consisting essentially of” limits the scope of a claim to the expressly recited elements, limitations, steps, integers, and / or features and any other elements, limitations, steps, integers, and / or features that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristic(s) of the claimed subject matter. Thus, the meaning of the open-ended transitional phrase “comprising” is being defined as encompassing all the specifically recited elements, limitations, steps and / or features as well as any optional, additional unspecified ones. The meaning of the closed-ended transitional phrase “consisting of” is being defined as only including those elements, limitations, steps, integers, and / or features specifically recited in the claim, whereas the meaning of the closed-ended transitional phrase “consisting essentially of” is being defined as only including those elements, limitations, steps, integers, and / or features specifically recited in the claim and thoseInternational Patent Application UE3BP1-0004WC Dillon, et al., Security Columnelements, limitations, steps, integers, and / or features that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristic(s) of the claimed subject matter. Therefore, the open-ended transitional phrase “comprising” (and equivalent open-ended transitional phrases thereof) includes within its meaning, as a limiting case, claimed subject matter specified by the closed-ended transitional phrases “consisting of” or “consisting essentially of.” As such, the embodiments described herein or so claimed with the phrase “comprising” expressly and unambiguously provide description, enablement, and support for the phrases “consisting essentially of” and “consisting of.”

[0070] It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that many more modifications besides those already described are possible without departing from the inventive concepts herein. The inventive subject matter, therefore, is not to be restricted except in the spirit of the appended claims. Moreover, in interpreting both the specification and the claims, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest possible manner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms “comprises” and “comprising” should be interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized, or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are not expressly referenced. Where the specification claims refer to at least one of something selected from the group consisting of A, B, C .... and N, the text should be interpreted as requiring only one element from the group, not A plus N, or B plus N, etc.

[0071] Any claims intended to be treated under 35 ll.S.C. §112(f) will begin with the words “means for,” but use of the term “for” in any other context is not intended to invoke treatment under 35 ll.S.C. §112(f). Accordingly, Applicant reserves the right to pursue additional claims after filing this application, in either this application or in a continuing application.

[0072] It should be understood that the methods and the order in which the respective elements of each method are performed are purely exemplary. Depending on the implementation, they may be performed in any order or in parallel, unless indicated otherwise in the present disclosure.

[0073] Finally, all patents, patent publications, and other references cited and identified in the present specification are individually and expressly incorporated herein by reference in their entirety to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. These publications are provided solely for their disclosure prior to the filing date of the present application. The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge from any country. In addition, where a definition or use of a term in an incorporated reference is inconsistent or contraryInternational Patent Application UE3BP1-0004WO Dillon, et al., Security Columnto the definition of that term provided herein, the definition of that term provided herein applies and the definition of that term in the reference does not apply. Lastly, nothing in this regard is or should be construed as an admission that the inventors are not entitled to antedate such disclosure by virtue of prior invention or for any other reason. All statements as to the date or representation as to the contents of these documents are based on the information available to the applicant and do not constitute any admission as to the correctness of the dates or contents of these documents.

Claims

International Patent Application UE3BP1-0004WC Dillon, et al., Security ColumnCLAIMS1. A protective building element comprising one or more lower conduits, a junction box, one or more upper conduits, a mounting bracket having an interior channel, and one or more perimeter security devices,wherein the one or more lower conduits run from a base of the protective building element to the junction box,wherein the one or more upper conduits run from the junction box to one or more side walls or the top of the protective building element,wherein power and / or communications cabling are contained within the one or more lower conduits, the junction box, the one or more upper conduits, and the interior of the mounting bracket and provide communication connectivity to the one or more perimeter security devices; andwherein the column is formed from a composite material comprising cement, an aggregate and water.

2. The protected building element of claim 1, wherein the protected building element is in the form of a column.

3. The protected building element of any one of claims 1-2. further comprising a core channel located in the interior of the protected building element that traverses from the base to the top of the protected building element.

4. The protected building element of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the composite material is reinforced with a steel cage.

5. The protected building element of any one of claims 1-4, wherein the composite material is reinforced with one or more fibers selected from steel fiber, glass fibers, textile fibers, polyfibers, or a combination thereof.

6. The protected building element of any one of claims 1-5, wherein the mounting bracket is a T-shaped structure having a vertical section and a horizontal section.International Patent Application UE3BP1-0004WC Dillon, et al., Security Column7. The protected building element of any one of claims 1-6, wherein the one or more perimeter security devices comprise one or more imaging devices like a visual imaging device (directional or panoramic), a thermal imaging device, a visual / thermal imaging device, an optical gas imaging device, one or more one or more object detection devices like a radar or a Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR), one or more sound detection device, one or more motion detection device, one or more security lights, one or more audio devices like an alarm or a speaker, or one or more wireless sensors, or any combination thereof.

8. The protected building element of any one of claims 1 -7, wherein the junction box is fitted into an aperture located in the protected building element.

9. The protected building element of any one of claims 1-8, wherein the one or more lower conduits and the one or more upper conduits are composed of a flexible material.

10. The protected building element of any one of claims 1-8, wherein the one or more lower conduits and the one or more upper conduits are composed of a metal material.

11. A protective walling system comprising at least two columns of any one of claims 1-10 and at least one protective wall panel disposed between the columns.

12. The protective walling system of claim 11, further comprising at least one mounting bracket secured to an upper surface of at least one of the columns and at least one perimeter security device secured to the at least one mounting bracket.

13. The protective walling system of claim 12, further comprising one or more connection boxes, wherein each connection box comprises an aperture to receive power and / or communications cabling from at least one of the columns and one or more further apertures to provide power and / or communications connections to adjacent connection boxes.

14. The protective walling system of claim 13, wherein each connection box is located below the column from which it receives power and / or communications cabling.

15. A method of producing a protective building element comprising one or more internal conduits for power and / or communications cabling composite material comprising cement, comprising (a) forming a mold comprising providing the required shape, (b) pouring a composite material slurry comprising cement, an aggregate and water into the mold, (c) allowing the composite material to harden, and (d) removing the mold.International Patent Application UE3BP1-0004WC Dillon, et al., Security Column16. The method of claim 15, wherein the protected building element is in the form of a column, optionally having a core channel.

17. The method of claim 15, wherein a steel cage and / or one or more fibers selected from steel fiber, glass fibers, textile fibers, polyfibers, or a combination thereof are added to the mold prior to step (b).

18. The method of claim 15, wherein the protective building element is produced as a single piece.

19. A column comprising one or more internal conduits for power and / or communications cabling and one or more perimeter security devices.

20. The protected building element of claim 19, wherein the one or more internal conduits are composed of a flexible material, a metal material, or a combination thereof.

21. The column of claim 19 or 20, wherein the column is formed from a composite material comprising cement, an aggregate and water.

22. The column of any one of claims 19-21, wherein the composite material is reinforced with a steel cage.

23. The column of any one of claims 19-22, wherein the composite material is reinforced with one or more fibers selected from steel fiber, glass fibers, textile fibers, polyfibers, or a combination thereof.

24. The column of any one of claims 19-23, further comprising a mounting bracket for attachment of one or more perimeter security devices, wherein the mounting bracket is secured to an upper surface of the column and wherein the mount comprises an internal space that abuts the one or more internal conduits.

25. The column of any one of claims 19-24, wherein the one or more perimeter security devices comprise one or more imaging devices like a visual imaging device (directional or panoramic), a thermal imaging device, a visual / thermal imaging device, an optical gas imaging device, one or more one or more object detection devices like a radar or a Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR), one or more sound detection device, one or more motion detection device, one orInternational Patent Application UE3BP1-0004WC Dillon, et al., Security Columnmore security lights, one or more audio devices like an alarm or a speaker, or one or more wireless sensors, or any combination thereof.

26. The column of any one of claims 19-25, further comprising a junction box, wherein the junction box provides for connecting one or more power and / or communications cables to the one or more perimeter security devices.

27. The column of claim 26, wherein the one or more internal conduits comprise one or more conduits for power and communications cables below the junction box and one or more conduits above the junction box extending to the upper surface of the column.

28. The column of any one of claims 19-27, further comprising a core channel.

29. A protective walling system comprising at least two columns as defined by any one of claims 19-28 and at least one wall panel disposed between the columns.

30. The protective walling system of claim 29, further comprising at least one mount secured to an upper surface of at least one of the columns and at least one perimeter security device secured to the at least one mount.

31. The protective walling system of claim 29 or 30, further comprising one or more connection boxes, wherein each connection box comprises an aperture to receive power and / or communications cabling from at least one of the columns and one or more further apertures to provide power and / or communications connections to adjacent connection boxes.

32. The protective walling system of claim 31 , wherein each connection box is located below the column from which it receives power and / or communications cabling.

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