Description

Technical Field

This invention relates to a barrier, in particular for infrastructures or constructions, especially for separating lines of communication, such as railways, roads or the like, from the surrounding environment.

Background Art

Known in the prior art are barriers for separating lines of communication, such as railways, from the surrounding environment. Each barrier comprises a lower part which supports an upper part placed on top of the lower part.

In these prior art barriers, the lower supporting part comprises a plurality of segments which are lined up along the direction of extension of the barrier and which are in the form of identical, structurally resistant segments placed on a structurally resistant foundation of corresponding dimensions.

In practice, prior art barriers for railway lines have a lower barrier part and an upper barrier part made of a metallic material, where the supporting part under the metallic barrier is made of reinforced concrete cast on site. These prior art barriers present considerable installation problems and costs.

In another form of the prior art barriers of the type described above, the lower part is divided into prefabricated segments made of reinforced concrete, which are aligned along the longitudinal direction of extension of the barrier and which are adapted to fully support the upper, preferably metallic, part of the selfsame barrier. These underlying supporting segments, which are the same as each other in structure and function, are excessively heavy and difficult to position. Furthermore, each segment must be placed on a bulky and suitably reinforced foundation which entails considerably lengthy preparations and high production costs.

Moreover, the setting up of these prior art barriers requires considerable working precision, which is difficult to achieve on site. In effect, installation tolerances are tight because all the parts must be precisely aligned to ensure that the joints are stressed in optimal manner by passing vehicles/trains. Summary of the Invention

It is therefore provided a new solution as an alternative to the solutions known up to now and/or in particular proposes to overcome one or more of the above mentioned drawbacks and/or problems.

The invention accordingly provides a barrier, in particular for infrastructures or constructions, especially for separating lines of communication, such as railways, roads or the like, from the surrounding environment and comprising a lower part supporting an upper part of the same barrier, the lower supporting part comprising a plurality of segments; the barrier being characterized in that it comprises segments forming a respective load-bearing member and segments forming a respective infill member and which are alternated with and connected to the load-bearing segments.

The infill segments, because they do not need to be as structurally resistant as the other segments, can be made lighter in weight, with simpler foundations which are more economical and less time-consuming to prepare.

Brief Description of the Drawings

These and other innovative aspects are set out in the appended claims and the technical features and advantages of the invention are also apparent from the detailed description which follows of non-limiting example embodiments of it with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

- Figure 1 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a barrier according to this invention under working conditions, that is to say, installed, in this particular case, alongside a railway line;

- Figure 2A is a transversal cross section of the preferred embodiment of the barrier at a load-bearing segment of it;

- Figure 2B is a transversal cross section of the preferred embodiment of the barrier at a non-load-bearing segment of it;

- Figure 2C is a front view of the preferred embodiment of the barrier;

- Figure 3A is a schematic top plan view of the preferred embodiment of the barrier, with the segments perfectly lined up with each other;

- Figure 3B is a schematic top plan view of the preferred embodiment of the barrier, showing in particular adjacent segments which are positioned at an angle to each other to form a curved stretch of the barrier; - Figure 3C is a top plan view of a pair of segments, showing in particular the interconnection means by which they are joined to each other;

- Figures 3D and 3E are views similar to that of Figure 3C but showing, respectively, a second and a third preferred embodiment of the interconnection means for joining the barrier segments to each other;

- Figures 3F and 3G schematically illustrate the third preferred embodiment of the interconnection means for joining the barrier segments to each other, in a side view and a top plan view, respectively;

- Figures 3H and 31 are schematic perspective views illustrating the connection between the segments according to the third preferred embodiment of the interconnection means applied to a still further embodiment of the load- bearing and non-load-bearing segments shown in more detail in Figures 27A and 27B;

- Figure 4 is a front view of a preferred embodiment of the load-bearing segment of the barrier;

- Figure 5 is a longitudinal cross section of the preferred embodiment of the load-bearing segment;

- Figure 6 is a top plan view showing only the load-bearing segment;

- Figure 7 is a horizontal cross section through the line VII- VII of Figure 5; - Figure 8 is a horizontal cross section through the line VIII- VIII of Figure

5;

- Figure 9 is a front view of a preferred embodiment of the non-load- bearing or infill segment of the barrier;

- Figure 10 is a longitudinal vertical cross section of the preferred embodiment of the non-load-bearing segment;

- Figure 11 is a top plan view showing only the preferred embodiment of the non-load-bearing segment of the barrier;

- Figure 12 is a horizontal cross section through the line ΧΠ-ΧΙΙ of Figure 10 showing the non-load-bearing segment of the barrier;

- Figure 13 is a horizontal cross section through the line ΧΠΙ-ΧΠΙ of Figure

10 showing the non-load-bearing segment of the barrier;

- Figures 14 and 15 are perspective views showing steps in the assembly of the preferred embodiment of the barrier;

- Figures 16A to 16E are horizontal cross sections of a detail showing the sound insulating and sealing strip of the barrier; - Figures 17A to 17C are front views from above and horizontal cross sections of a preferred embodiment of an infill segment comprising a passage door;

- Figure 18 is a top plan view of a second preferred embodiment of the barrier, showing in particular a load-bearing segment of short, stubby type to make angled barrier stretches which are necessary to avoid obstacles or the like;

- Figures 19A and 19B are a front view and a transversal cross section through the line XIX-XIX of Figure 19 A, showing a third preferred embodiment of the barrier according to the invention;

- Figures 19C and 19D are vertical cross sections through the lines XIX'-

XIX' and XIX"-XIX", respectively, showing only the load-bearing segment of the third preferred embodiment of the barrier illustrated in Figures 19A and 19B;

- Figure 20 illustrates in a front view the third preferred embodiment of the barrier with infill segment made of a transparent material;

- Figures 21 and 22 illustrate, in transversal cross sections of the barrier, a second and a third preferred embodiment of a supporting plinth of the load- bearing segment;

- Figures 23A to 24B are transversal cross sections of details of the barrier, showing a first preferred embodiment of a bolt slackening prevention element;

- Figures 25A and 25B are transversal cross sections of details of the barrier, showing a second preferred embodiment of a bolt slackening prevention element;

- Figure 26 is a transversal cross section of a further preferred embodiment of the barrier;

- Figures 27 A and 27B schematically illustrate in top views a further preferred embodiment of the segments of the barrier according to the invention, and show in particular a step preceding and a step following the fitting of the non- load-bearing segment on the load-bearing segment. Description of the Preferred Embodiments of the Invention

The accompanying drawings illustrate a preferred embodiment 10 of a barrier, in particular for infrastructures or constructions, especially for delimiting or separating lines of communication, such as roads, motorways, railways or the like, from the surrounding environment.

As illustrated in Figure 1, a first and a second barrier 10 can be installed on each side of a line of communication, such as a railway line, in order to delimit the space occupied by the rails and the service area adjacent thereto from the surrounding environment and also to isolate the surrounding environment acoustically from the line of communication.

As illustrated, the barrier 10 comprises a lower part 11 supporting an upper part 13 of the same barrier.

As illustrated, the upper part 13 extending above and upwardly from the lower part 11.

More specifically, the lower part 11 of the barrier comprises a plurality of segments 12, 14, which, as illustrated, are preferably lined up, or placed side by side, along the direction of longitudinal extension of the selfsame barrier 10, that is to say, along the direction which follows, or extends parallel to, the line of communication.

Advantageously, the barrier 10 comprises segments 12 which are adapted to form a respective load-bearing member and segments 14 which are in turn adapted to form a respective infill member, the infill segments being alternated with, and connected to, the load-bearing segments 12.

As may be inferred, the respective segment 12, 14 is in the form of a prismatic member having a preferably rectangular base and made preferably of reinforced concrete, with lightening means or members, if necessary, as will become clearer as this description continues.

The respective segment 12, 14 thus has a top face 12a, 14a, relative to which the upper part 13 of the barrier extends upwardly, a bottom face 12b, 14b preferably resting on an underlying supporting surface or on a corresponding foundation, opposite lateral faces 12c, 12d, 14c, 14d, which connect respective segments 12, 14 to each other, a front face 12e, 14e, which is directed towards the line of communication, and a rear face 12f, 14f, which is directed outwards, away from the line of communication.

In practice, the respective segment 12, 14, viewed from above, has an elongate shape whose long side extends along the direction of extension of the barrier.

Further, the opposite lateral faces 12c, 12d, 14c, 14d of the respective segment 12, 14 are parallel or substantially parallel to each other.

The top and bottom faces and the front and rear faces are, moreover, also parallel or substantially parallel to each other As illustrated, once the barrier is installed, the lateral faces 12c, 12d of one segment 12 face the opposed lateral faces 14c, 14d of the adjacent segment 14, as shown in particular in Figures 3 A and 3B.

As illustrated, interconnection means 15 are also advantageously provided for joining the segments, in particular, adjacent segments 12, 14, to each other.

More specifically, as illustrated, the segments each have a respective direction of extension, or longitudinal axis of extension, denoted by the reference character "L".

Advantageously, the segment interconnection means 15 are adapted to allow the segments 12 and 14 to be arranged according to a respective angle "A", as illustrated in Figure 3B.

More specifically, the segment interconnection means 15 are adapted to allow the segments 12 and 14 to be arranged according to any angle within a suitable angular interval.

For example, the angular interval is included between -5° and +5° relative to the longitudinal direction of extension L of the barrier, that is to say, the longitudinal direction of extension L of the respective adjacent segment, as may be easily inferred from Figures 3 A and 3B.

That way, a barrier can be constructed which can conveniently follow the curved stretches of the infrastructure it is associated with, that is to say, which can be provided with curved stretches such as to allow it to avoid natural or artificial obstacles that would otherwise interrupt its structural continuity.

The interconnection means 15 are thus provided between adjacent segments 12 and 14, that is, between segments which follow on from each other uninterruptedly according to the direction of extension of the line of communication they are associated with.

Advantageously, the interconnection means 15 for joining adjacent segments are adapted to transmit horizontal stress.

Also, advantageously, the interconnection means 15 for joining adjacent segments are adapted to transmit stress which is perpendicular to the barrier or perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L of the respective segment.

As illustrated, advantageously, the segment interconnection means 15 are provided between the facing lateral faces 12c, 12d, 14c, 14d of adjacent segments 12, 14.

As illustrated, advantageously, the interconnection means 15 for joining adjacent segments are provided between the facing lateral faces 12c, 12d, 14c, 14d of adjacent segments 12 and 14.

The segment interconnection means 15 thus constitute hinge means which, in particular, allow one segment to be arranged at a suitable angle A relative to the other segment.

As may be easily inferred from Figure 3C, the segment interconnection means 15 comprise a respective socket 15a, 15b which is recessed relative to the respective segment face 12c, 12d, 14c, 14d, and into which an engagement element 15c extends, the engagement element 15c being adapted to act in conjunction with the surface 15a, 15b defining the socket which receives the engagement element 15c.

More specifically, as clearly shown in Figure 3C, respective sockets 15a, 15a and 15b, 15b are provided which are recessed relative to the respective lateral face 12c, 12d, 14c, 14d of the respective segment.

As illustrated, the respective socket 15a, 15b extends vertically, in particular for the full height of the respective segment and, in particular, has a semicircular profile.

As illustrated, when the segments 12 and 14 are perfectly lined up with each other, there is a spacing or distance "d" between the opposed faces 12c, 14d, or 12d, 14c, of adjacent segments.

Under the same conditions of perfect longitudinal alignment, the opposed faces 12c, 12d, 14c, 14d of adjacent segments are parallel or substantially parallel to each other.

As illustrated, the connecting element 15c extends vertically and, in particular, for the full height of the respective segments 12, 14.

In practice, the connecting element 15c has an outside surface 15d which engages the corresponding surface 15a, 15b defining the respective socket, the outside engagement surface 15d extending circumferentially and being, in particular, in the form of a corresponding cylindrical surface.

The connecting element 15c is thus in the form of an element to be interposed between the opposite sockets 15a, 15b of adjacent segments 12, 14.

In practice, the elongate interposed element 15c is inserted between the sockets 15a and 15b to act in conjunction with the surfaces, in particular the curved surfaces, delimiting the sockets.

More specifically, as illustrated, the interposed or engagement element 15c is in the form of an elongate metal tubular element.

In practice, the interposed element 15c is provided between opposed lateral faces 12c, 12d, 14c, 14d of adjacent segments 12, 14.

That way, between adjacent segments there is provided a connection 15 which is such as to allow the selfsame segments to be arranged at a suitable angle A in a horizontal plane or in a plane perpendicular to the direction of extension of the segment in height.

As illustrated, the sockets 15a, 15b of this preferred embodiment of the interconnection means are formed both on the load-bearing segment 12 and on the infill segment 14. More specifically, the socket 15a is provided on the load- bearing segment 12. Further, as illustrated, the socket 15b is provided on the infill segment 14.

The respective socket 15a, 15b is delimited by a corresponding surface, which is formed directly on the body of the segment and, in particular, is defined by a face, in particular a curved surface, made of conglomerate, in particular cementitious conglomerate.

In a second preferred embodiment of the segment interconnection means, illustrated in Figures 3B, 14 and 15, the segment interconnection means 150 comprise an engagement element 150c which is integral with the respective segment, in particular the infill segment 14.

More specifically, the segment interconnection means comprise an engagement element 150c which extends from a corresponding face, in particular, a lateral face 14c, 14d of the respective segment 14.

In practice, the segment interconnection means 15 comprise an engagement element 150c which extends from a corresponding face 14c, 14d of the respective infill segment.

Advantageously, the connecting element 150c has an external engagement surface 150d, which is semicircular or semicylindrical in shape and which engages the semicircular face defining the socket 15a that is recessed relative to the lateral surface 12c, 12d of the load-bearing segment 12.

More specifically, as illustrated, the engagement element 150c, 150'c is integral with a plate 150e, 150'e, in particular, a plate made of a metallic material, which is bolted into one or more matching bushes embedded into the respective segment 14.

More specifically, as illustrated in Figures 14 and 15, first interconnection means 150c and second interconnection means 150'c are provided at different heights. Upper interconnection means 150c are provided at the upper end of the respective segment. Also provided are lower interconnection means 150'c, located at an intermediate zone of the respective segment.

In practice, the respective plate 150e, 150'e which mounts the respective engagement element 150c, 150'c extends in height, or vertically, for a certain distance and the respective engagement element 150c, 150'c in turn extends in height, or vertically, for a certain distance.

In turn, the socket 15a, which is identical to the socket of the first preferred embodiment and which acts in conjunction with the engagement portion 150c, extends vertically for the full height of the segment 12.

As illustrated in Figure 3D, the plate 150'e for mounting the respective engagement element 150'c, 150'c is integral with corresponding tie rod means 150'f, 150'f, in the form of bolts screwed into horizontal bushes which are embedded in the respective segment 14, and which, in particular, are in the form of opposite, first and second tie rods, which extend substantially parallel to the front and rear faces 14e, 14f of the segment 14, remaining near the selfsame faces.

In practice, as illustrated, the tie rod means 150'f, 150'f extend on the opposite side of the plate 150'e from which the engagement element 150'c extends, remaining lateral thereto or transversal to the sides thereof.

As illustrated, in both the first and second embodiments, the engagement element for the respective matching socket it acts in conjunction with is situated at a substantially central position of the respective face, in particular of the lateral face, of the respective segment.

Figures 3E to 31 illustrate a third preferred embodiment of the segment interconnection means, denoted by the reference numeral 250.

The segment interconnection means 250 have components which are similar to those of the second preferred embodiment described above and are not therefore commented on again in detail, the similar parts being denoted by the same reference numerals as those used for the second preferred embodiment of the interconnection means.

In the third preferred embodiment, too, first interconnection means 250 and second interconnection means 250' are provided at different heights.

Upper interconnection means 250 are provided at the upper end of the respective segment. Also provided are lower interconnection means 250', located at an intermediate zone of the respective segment.

In the third preferred embodiment, the upper and lower interconnection means on the respective segment, comprise a respective engagement element 250c, 250'c which is adapted to define means of retention to the adjacent segment along a direction longitudinal of the respective segment.

In practice, the connecting element 250c which extends along, and is integral with, the respective segment, in particular the infill segment 14, extends from a respective mounting plate 150e, 150'e at the corresponding face of the selfsame segment, the plate being made of a metallic material, like the corresponding plate of the second preferred embodiment.

The connecting element 250c, 250'c makes it possible to join the segment 14 to the adjacent segment, in particular to the load-bearing segment 12, also constraining it so it can move only along a longitudinal direction, that is to say, longitudinally along a direction away from the corresponding segment 12.

In practice, advantageously, the respective connecting element 250c, 250'c is adapted to define means for fastening to the adjacent segment 12.

The respective connecting element 250c, 250'c extends vertically for a certain distance along the height of the respective segment 12.

Advantageously, the connecting element 250c, 250'c has a respective enlarged or wide engagement portion 251c and a corresponding extension portion 252c which, in particular, extends from the face of the corresponding load-bearing segment 14, the portion 252c bearing the enlarged or wide engagement or fastening portion 251c.

In practice, the connecting element 250c has a respective engagement or fastening portion 251c which extends transversely to the extension portion 252c, in particular on both sides thereof.

More specifically, the connecting element 250c, 250'c is in the form of a T- shaped element which is designed to extend into a respective closed retaining socket 250a through a corresponding slit 250' ' ' .

In practice, as illustrated, in the third preferred embodiment, the connection means on the respective segment, in particular of the load-bearing segment, comprise a respective retaining socket 250a for the respective engagement element 250c.

The respective socket 250a, which, as illustrated, has a generally quadrangular shape, extends vertically for the full height of the respective segment 12.

More specifically, as illustrated, the retaining socket 250a has an elongate slit 250" ' which is provided at the front face of the segment or opens onto the corresponding face of the segment, in particular onto the lateral face 12c, 12d of the respective segment.

The elongate slit 250' " allows the shank or extension portion 252c of the engagement element 250c with the enlarged or wide portion 251c to be inserted or passed into the socket 250a and acts in conjunction with the surface defining the socket and is retained by the retaining socket 250a.

As illustrated, the retaining socket 250a has a peripheral surface for engaging the fastening or engagement element 250c, that is, it acts in conjunction with the latter, and has front retaining walls 1253, 1254 which delimit between them the slit 250' " for the insertion and passage of the engagement element 250c.

On the side opposite the front longitudinal retaining wall 1253, 1254 there is a bottom wall or face 1250 and laterally of the bottom wall 1250 and of the front walls 1253, 1254, there are opposite lateral faces or wings 1251, 1252.

Advantageously, the retaining socket 250a is defined by a generally C- shaped profile embedded in the body of the respective segment and whose front wings 1253, 1254 are located at, and lie in the same plane as, the respective lateral face of the segment.

The C-shaped profile defining the socket 250a is held to the segment by tie rods 150f, 150'f which are the same as those described above for retaining the respective retaining element 150c, 150'c and are not described again in detail.

More specifically, the profile defining the respective retaining socket 250a is made of a metallic material and has respective wings 1253, 1254 defining the front walls or faces of the socket 250a, a core 1250 defining the bottom of the selfsame socket, and lateral wings 1251, 1252 connecting the core to the front wings.

As illustrated, the core and the front wings 1253, 1254 are parallel to the respective lateral face 12c, 12d of the segment, while the lateral wings 1252, 1253 are parallel to the front and rear walls of the selfsame segment.

As illustrated, the perpendicular extension and supporting portion 252c for the fastening portion 251c of the fastening element or means 250c is perpendicular to the respective wall 14c, 14d, while the enlarged portion 251c of the extension portion 250c extends, in particular, on both sides of the portion 252c and always transversely thereto, being positioned parallel to the corresponding face of the segment, in particular to the lateral face 14c, 14d of the segment.

As illustrated, the connecting elements are provided on the edges, or lateral faces, of the corresponding panel, like the matching sockets for receiving them.

In the third preferred embodiment, too, the respective fastening and mounting plate 150e, 150'e for the respective engagement element 250c, 250'c, is integral with corresponding tie rod means 150f, 150f, 150'f, 150'f which are inserted into the respective segment 14.

More specifically, the lower plate 150e has corresponding tie rods 150'f,

150'f which extend perpendicularly to the lateral faces of the segment 14, remaining inserted in corresponding bushes which are embedded in the segment and which extend near the front and rear faces of the segment.

In practice, as illustrated, the tie rod means 150'f, 150'f extend on the opposite side of the plate 150e from which the engagement element 250c extends, remaining lateral thereto, or at the sides thereof.

The upper plate 150e is in turn L-shaped and extends on an upper portion 1501 which rests on the top face of the segment 14, with corresponding tie rods 150f, which are inserted in matching bushes embedded in the panel and which retain the upper portion 1501 of the plate 150e, extending perpendicularly to the top face 14a of the segment 14 and remaining near the front and rear faces of the segment.

A similar plate and fastening for the upper part of the interconnection means is provided for the second preferred embodiment 150 of the interconnection means.

As illustrated, in the third embodiment, too, the engagement element and the respective socket it acts in conjunction with is situated at a substantially central position of the respective face, in particular of the lateral face, of the respective segment.

For the second and third embodiments of the segment interconnection means, advantageous means may be provided for preventing the slackening of the tie rods/bolts for connecting/tightening the upper plate to the selfsame segment. More specifically, the bolt slackening prevention element has one end for insertion into the head of the tie rod 150f and another end which defines an engagement surface for abutting against the upper part 1501 of the plate, in a manner substantially similar to the slackening prevention means provided for the tie rods which connect the upper barrier part 13 to the lower part, that is, to the load- bearing segments 12, as described in more detail below.

As may be inferred in particular from Figures 14 and 15, which show the interconnection means 150 of the second preferred embodiment, and in any case in a manner similar to the interconnection means 250 of the third preferred embodiment, as illustrated in Figures 3H and 31, the segment interconnection means 150, 250, 250' comprise a first and a second engagement element 150c, 150'c and 250, 250', respectively, which extend from a corresponding face 14c, 14d of the respective segment 14 and which are spaced from each other in height.

More specifically, the segment interconnection means 150, 250 comprise an engagement element 150c, 250c which is located at the upper part of the segment, in particular extending from the upper edge or face 14a of the segment 14.

Further, the segment interconnection means 150, 250' comprise an engagement element 150'c, 250'c, which is located at an intermediate zone of the side of the selfsame segment and which, more specifically, is positioned in height below the centre line of the segment.

Advantageously, the respective segment, in particular the load-bearing segment 12, has a fissure 150a, extending perpendicularly or horizontally, and which leads into the corresponding lateral lip, in particular into the lip facing the front of the segment, and delimiting the receiving socket 15a.

The perpendicular fissure 150'a leads into the socket 15a of the segment interconnection means and is adapted to form means for the passage, in a direction perpendicular to the segment, of a corresponding lower element 150'c for engaging the adjacent segment 14 in order to cause the engagement element 150'c to be inserted into the corresponding socket of the adjacent segment.

More specifically, the perpendicular fissure 150'a is positioned in height substantially at the centre line of the segment 12, or slightly below the centre line and in any case at a height such as not to be perpendicularly aligned with the intermediate engagement element 150'c of the adjacent segment 14 when in the inserted condition.

For the third preferred embodiment of the interconnection means a similar fissure is provided which is such as to allow the lower fastening element 250' to be inserted into the socket 250a of the segment 12.

That way, it is possible to insert an infill segment 14 between the load- bearing segments 12 without having to lift the infill segment completely above the load-bearing segments 12.

In effect, as well illustrated in Figures 14 and 15, once the segment 14 has been raised to a height such that the intermediate engagement means 150'c are at the fissure 150'a giving access to the socket 15a, it is sufficient to push the infill segment 14 towards the load-bearing segments 12, 12, as shown by the arrow F in Figure 14, to insert the lower engagement elements 150'c, 150'c on opposite lateral faces of the selfsame segment 14 into the respective socket 15a, 15a on the corresponding load-bearing segments 12, 12 between which the infill segment 14 must be positioned. Not having to lift the infill segment 14 to a great height in order to insert it facilitates operations by personnel in charge of installation and also avoids contact with overhead cables or other obstacles along the electrified railway line.

The respective segment 12, 14 is made of conglomerate, such as cementitious conglomerate or suitably reinforced concrete, and in particular, is provided with respective lightening means, as will become clearer as this description continues.

Further, the respective segment, in particular the infill segment 14, may comprise at least one panel of transparent material, in particular glass or plastic material, mounted on a suitable structure, in particular a metallic structure.

Further, the respective segment, in particular the infill segment 14, may be made of steel, aluminium, plastic or wood, according to architectural or functional requirements, for example to obtain a higher level of sound insulation.

According to a particularly advantageous aspect, the respective segment 12, 14 comprises lightening means, as will become clearer as this description continues.

According to a further advantageous aspect, the barrier comprises a supporting foundation 16 for the segments 12, 14.

Advantageously, the respective load-bearing segment 12 has means for anchoring it to the foundation.

As may be inferred in particular from Figures 4, 5, 2A and 2C, the load- bearing segment 12 has a main or infill portion 120, with a generally rectangular prismatic shape, and a portion 121 defining means by which it is anchored to the foundation below it.

The means for anchoring to the foundation comprise a portion 121 which protrudes downwardly from the main body 120 of the load-bearing segment.

The anchoring portion 121 slots into a matching hollow or cavity 16c in the foundation, in particular of a foundation 16a of insulated type, such as a plinth or the like.

In practice, the respective load-bearing segment 12 has a lower portion 121 which is inserted into a corresponding, open-top socket for receiving the foundation and defined by peripheral walls for retaining the lower portion 121 of the load-bearing segment along a horizontal direction and which extend upwardly from a bottom face 16' of the receiving socket which the bottom portion of the segment rests on.

As illustrated, the foundation has respectively opposite and perpendicular walls 162a, 162b and 162c, 162d with respective inside faces which are opposed to corresponding faces of the bottom fastening portion 121 of the load-bearing segment 12.

In practice, the foundation, or plinth, thus comprises a bottom or base portion 162 from which there extend upwardly corresponding peripheral walls 162a, 162b, 162c, 162d defining between them a corresponding receiving socket 16c for a bottom portion 121 of the load-bearing segment 12.

As may be easily inferred from Figure 2B, the respective segment 14 in turn has an underside surface 14b for resting on a continuous foundation 16b which extends between respective insulated anchoring foundations 16a, 16a and which may, advantageously, be made of a material which is not particularly resistant, for example a plain casting of concrete of minimal thickness with a minimum of, or even totally without, metal reinforcement.

That way, the cost and construction time of the foundation are limited, with obvious advantages in terms of speed of construction of the barrier according to the invention and lower overall barrier construction costs.

In practice, advantageously, the respective load-bearing segment 12 is anchored to a respective foundation 16.

In practice, unlike the non-load-bearing segment 14, the respective load- bearing segment 12 is anchored to the respective foundation and is retained or constrained thereto according to a direction perpendicular to the respective segment, or according to a direction perpendicular to the line of communication.

Furthermore, the respective load-bearing segment 12 is anchored to a respective foundation and is retained or constrained thereto according to a direction longitudinal of the respective segment or barrier.

Furthermore, the respective load-bearing segment 12 is anchored to a respective foundation and is retained or constrained thereto according to a vertical direction, that is to say, the bottom of it rests on the foundation.

More specifically, the main portion or body 120 of the load-bearing segment has a respective underside surface 12b, running alongside the projecting anchoring portion 121, in particular along both sides thereof.

The entire underside surface of the non-load-bearing, infill segment 14, on the other hand, rests on the foundation below it, or in another embodiment illustrated in Figures 18 and from 19A to 19D, is adapted to rest partly on the isolated foundations 16a and mainly on the continuous foundation 16b.

As may be inferred in particular from Figures 5, 7 and 8, the load-bearing segment 12 has a resistant portion 122 in the form of a pillar member or post.

The resistant pillar member 122 defines, with the bottom part of it which extends from the underside surface 12b, the portion 121 for anchoring to the foundation.

The load-bearing segment presents, or defines, fixing means 123 for a surmounting portion of the barrier.

In practice, the resistant pillar member 122 extends vertically and bears fixing means 123 for a surmounting barrier.

The fixing means for a surmounting barrier 13 comprise a metal plate 123a which is connected to the main body 120 of the load-bearing segment 12 through the agency of corresponding anchor bolts 123b which are inserted into bushes 123'b extending into the segment 12 starting from the bottom surface 123c of the socket 123' .

The fixing means 123 for a surmounting barrier portion 13 are located at the top face of the load-bearing segment 12. More specifically, the fixing means 123 for a surmounting barrier 13 are located at a socket which is slightly recessed relative to the top face 12a of the main body of the load-bearing segment 12, as described above.

In practice, the socket has a bottom portion 123c placed above the pillar portion 122, and, preferably, vertically at the resistant pillar member or post 122, at a height or level below the top surface 12a of the segment 12.

The socket 123 is completed by a peripheral portion 123d which connects the top face 12a of the segment 12 with the recessed bottom face 123c of the socket for receiving the anchoring means for an upper barrier portion 13.

In the drawings, the socket for receiving the anchoring means 123 is labelled 123' in its entirety.

In practice, the anchoring means 123 for a surmounting barrier portion 13, that is, the socket 123'e for receiving the anchoring means for the upper barrier portion 13 are located at the resistant pillar member or post 122.

As mentioned, the anchoring means 123 comprise an anchor plate which is integral with tie rods 123b which are bolted into bushes 123'b embedded in the respective segment 12, and in particular which is made integral through the agency of adhesion means of cementitious material similar to the body of the segment.

The respective resistant pillar member or post 122 is made of reinforced cementitious conglomerate and has respective longitudinal reinforcements in the form of corresponding rods 122a and transversal reinforcing elements or brackets 122b, as shown in particular in Figures 5, 7 and 8.

Obviously, the brackets are suitably spaced and sized, like the vertical rods

122a, to confer suitable structural strength on the resistant pillar member 122.

As illustrated, the respective pillar member 122 is centrally positioned, along the longitudinal direction L, in the load-bearing segment 12.

As illustrated, the main infill portion 120 of the load-bearing segment 12 has an infill portion which extends laterally of the pillar member 122, and in particular comprises a first and a second infill portion 124, 125 extending laterally on opposite sides of the pillar member 122.

As illustrated, the lightening means, which are denoted in their entirety by the reference numeral 17 are housed in the respective lateral portions 124, 125 of the load-bearing segment 12.

In practice, as illustrated, the lightening means for each lateral portion 124, 125 of the load-bearing segment 12 are in the form of corresponding blocks, in particular three blocks for each lateral portion, the blocks 17 being vertically distributed in height and are, in particular, spaced from each other to allow corresponding transversal resistant portions of the segment 12 to be inserted between them.

The respective lateral portion 124, 125 of the load-bearing segment 12 thus has transversal or horizontal resistant portions.

More specifically, as illustrated, each lateral portion 124, 125 of the load- bearing segment 12 has transversal or horizontal resistant portions 126 which extend laterally from the pillar member 122.

More specifically, there are four transversal resistant portions, or tie rods, 126 which extend from the pillar member 122 and which respectively define the lower surface and the upper surface of the main portion 120 of the segment and in such a way as to separate corresponding lightening blocks 17, that is to say, extending between the central block 17 of the plurality of vertically distributed blocks 17 and the upper and lower lightening block 17.

In practice, the load-bearing segment 12 has one or more transversal resistant portions 126, respectively extending between the respective lightening blocks 17, one transversal resistant portion 126 which defines the lower part of the main body 120 and one transversal resistant portion 126 which defines the upper part of the main body 120.

In practice, as illustrated, a first and a second intermediate transversal resistant portion 126 are interposed between corresponding lightening blocks 17.

The transversal resistant portions extend for the full transversal extension of the respective lateral segment portion 124, 125 of the barrier.

In practice, a plurality of transversal resistant elements are provided which are vertically distributed or spaced from each other.

In practice, interposed or provided between the transversal resistant elements or means 126 there is a plurality of lightening blocks 17 or at least one lightening block 17.

The respective transversal resistant element 126 forms a single part with the central resistant pillar member 122.

The respective transversal resistant element 126 is made of reinforced cementitious conglomerate and has respective bracket- like reinforcement rods with shaped horizontal and oblique portions. In Figures 5, 6 and 8, these rods are labelled 126a.

The respective load-bearing segment 12 also has a resistant outer shell 127, which defines a resistant front layer, a resistant rear layer and respective resistant lateral layers, labelled 127a, 127b, 127c, 127d, respectively.

The respective segment also has a resistant upper layer 127' and a resistant lower layer 127", which are in particular defined by the upper and lower transversal resistant portions 126, 126 of the segment.

The respective resistant layer, or outer shell, encloses, or is superposed over, the lightening means 17. The respective resistant layer 127 is made of reinforced cementitious conglomerate in a single piece with the other layers of the shell 127, that is, with the respective transversal resistant element 126, and in a single piece with the central pillar member or post 122.

The shells or layers defining the outer shell of the load-bearing segment 12 in turn comprise respective reinforcement elements which are in particular defined by corresponding transversal shaped brackets and metal meshing provided at the front and rear of the main portion 120, 146 of the segment 12.

As illustrated in Figures 9 to 13, the lightening means of the infill segment 14, which are denoted in their entirety by the reference numeral 19, are in the form of corresponding blocks, in particular three blocks 19, these blocks being vertically distributed in height, and in particular, being spaced from each other to allow insertion of corresponding transversal resistant portions of the segment 14.

The infill segment 14 thus has transversal or horizontal resistant portions 146.

More specifically, the infill segment 14 has transversal or horizontal resistant portions 146 which extend substantially for the full width or for almost the full width of the selfsame infill segment 14.

More specifically, there are four transversal resistant portions 146 which define the lower surface and the upper surface of the infill segment 14 and in such a way as to separate corresponding lightening blocks 19, that is to say, extending between the central block 19 of the plurality of vertically distributed blocks 19 and the upper and lower lightening blocks 19.

In practice, the infill segment 14 has one or more transversal resistant portions 146, respectively extending between respective lightening blocks 19, one transversal resistant portion 146 which defines the lower part of the infill segment 14 and one transversal resistant portion 146 which defines the upper part of the infill segment 14.

In practice, as illustrated, a first and a second intermediate transversal resistant portion 146 are interposed between corresponding lightening blocks 19.

In practice, a plurality of transversal resistant elements 146 are provided which are vertically distributed or spaced from each other.

In practice, interposed or provided between the transversal resistant elements or means 146 there is a plurality of lightening blocks 19 or at least one lightening block 19. The respective transversal resistant element 146 is made of reinforced cementitious conglomerate and has respective bracket-like reinforcement rods with shaped horizontal and oblique portions. In the drawings, these rods are labelled 146a.

The respective infill segment 14 also has a resistant outer shell 147, which defines a resistant front layer, a resistant rear layer and respective resistant lateral layers, labelled 147a, 147b, 147c, 147d, respectively.

The respective segment also has a resistant upper layer 147' and a resistant lower layer 147", which are in particular defined by the upper and lower resistant transversal portions, of the segment.

The respective resistant layer, or outer shell 147 encloses, or is superposed over, the lightening means 19.

The respective resistant layer 147 is made of reinforced cementitious conglomerate in a single piece with the other layers of the shell 147, that is, with the respective transversal resistant element 146.

The shells or layers defining the outer shell 147 of the infill segment 14 in turn comprise respective reinforcement elements which are in particular defined by corresponding transversal shaped brackets and metal meshing provided at the front and rear of the infill segment 14.

In practice, load-bearing and infill segments 12, 14 are provided which have one or more transversal or horizontal portions 126, 146.

Both the segments 12, 14 have a transversal resistant portion 126, 146 which extends between respective lightening blocks 17, 19.

For both the segments 12, 14, the transversal means comprise a plurality of transversal resistant elements 126, 146 which are vertically spaced from each other and between which there is an interposed lightening block 17, 19.

The respective segment 12, 14 has an outer shell 127, 147, in particular a resistant front layer 127a, 147a, a resistant rear layer 127b, 147b, a first and a second resistant lateral layers 127c, 127d, 147c, 147d, a resistant upper layer 127', 147' and a resistant lower layer 127", 147".

The respective resistant layer 127 or 147 thus defines a shell which encloses corresponding lightening means 17, 19.

The respective resistant layer, or outer shell 127, 147 is made in a single piece with the respective transversal resistant element 126, 146.

The respective resistant layer 127, 147, whether of the load-bearing segment or of the infill segment, is made of reinforced cementitious conglomerate, and in particular comprises corresponding horizontal transversal brackets and, at the front face or the rear face, a corresponding metal mesh.

The lightening means 17, 19 of the respective segment 12, 14 are in the form of corresponding blocks which are vertically distributed or spaced from each other, with transversal resistant portions 126, 146 interposed between them.

As mentioned, the foundation comprises isolated foundations, in particular in the form of respective plinths 16a, each having a respective cavity 16c for receiving a corresponding bottom extension 121 of the load-bearing segment.

As mentioned, the foundation comprises a respective continuous foundation

16b which is interposed and extends between corresponding isolated foundations 16a to define a supporting surface for the respective segment 14, in particular for the underside surface thereof.

In practice, advantageously, the foundation comprises a continuous foundation 16b which is in the form of a casting of cementitious conglomerate or lean foundation concrete adapted to form a plain supporting and installation surface.

As may be inferred from Figures 2A and 2B, the height of the continuous foundation 16b is smaller than, in particular much smaller than that of the isolated foundations 16a between which it extends.

Also, as may be inferred from the drawings, the upper part 13 of the barrier comprises supporting posts M, in particular in the form of respective metal H sections, which extend from the load-bearing segment 12 and which are fixed to the anchoring plate, and infill means, or panels 13b, intermediate between and connected to adjacent posts M, M and made of any suitable material, even transparent material.

Advantageously, the respective segment has, on its respective front face 12e, 14e, a covering layer 21 which defines sound absorbing means which in particular give the respective panel a corrugated surface.

Preferably, the covering layer is made of mineralized wood, expanded clay, in the form of a respective panel of rock wool, glass wool or polyesters in metallic or plastic containers.

The respective segment 12, 14 also has a corrugated surface 23 on its rear face.

The rear face might also be provided with a suitable decoration and in particular might be adapted to reproduce natural stone, brick or other facing. More specifically, the segment might also be coloured or painted in order to better fulfil the architectural function required of it.

As may be easily inferred from Figures 9 and 10, the respective segment, in particular the infill segment 14, has, in particular at a bottom lateral zone of it, a duct 25 to allow water to be drained out to the outside of the construction, infrastructure or railway line. The duct 25, which has a rectangular, or possibly also circular, tubular cross section, extends transversely and is open at both ends to allow rainwater to pass quickly and directly to the external drainage system.

As may be inferred from Figures 16A to 16E, this barrier comprises means

27 for acoustically sealing the space between the segments 12, 14, in particular between the lateral surfaces 12c, 12d, 14c, 14d of the segments 12, 14 on the side of the barrier facing towards .the construction or line of communication.

As illustrated, the means for acoustically sealing the space between the segments 12, 14, in particular between the lateral surfaces 12c, 12d, 14c, 14d of the segments 12, 14, are in the form of a respective seal of elastomeric material interposed between the opposed faces of adjacent segments 12, 14 and extending for the full height of the segments 12, 14.

More specifically, first and second preferred embodiments of the sealing means are illustrated in Figures 16A and 16B. Both of these preferred embodiments comprise an elastomeric element 27 with a main hollow body fixed to the segment by a portion 27' inserted into the body of the segment and which engages the surface opposite the segment with the face from which the inserted portion extends.

Third and fourth preferred embodiments of the sealing means are illustrated in Figures 16C and 16D. Both of these preferred embodiments comprise an elastomeric element 27, and a central body from which there extend laterally opposite flanges 327 for engaging recessed sockets 327' provided on the opposed surfaces of adjacent segments.

The fifth preferred embodiment, illustrated in Figure 16E, is in the form of an elastomeric plug 27 with quadrangular cross section, interposed between and engaging the opposed surfaces of adjacent segments.

Sealing strips, in particular for acoustic sealing, may also be provided which slot into matching C-shaped sockets 227 formed on the edge of the non- load-bearing segment 14 along which the latter abuts the load-bearing segment 12, as may be inferred from Figures 3H and 31. These sealing strips may be in the place of or additional to the seals 27 described above.

Figures 17A to 17C illustrate an advantageous infill segment 14' having a door 14'a for the passage of at least one person. The supporting structure of the segment 14' and the interconnection means 15' for joining it to the adjacent load- bearing segments 12 are identical to those described above.

Figure 18 illustrates a second preferred embodiment of the barrier, which comprises an advantageous segment, in particular a load-bearing segment 12', which, viewed from above, has a generally quadrangular base whose sides or edges are the same or substantially the same in length and whose interconnection means 15 for joining it to the adjacent infill segments 14 are identical to those described above.

In practice, advantageously, the interconnecting means 15 which join this short and stubby load-bearing segment 12' to the infill segments 14, also similar to those of the preferred embodiment described above, are provided between segment faces which are at an angle to each other, for example at an angle of 90°, as illustrated, or 45°, or any other convenient and desired angle.

That way, as illustrated in Figure 18, the barrier can be made to follow a desired and advantageous path, in particular a path around obstacles or the like.

The load-bearing segment 12' has a load-bearing pillar member 22 similar to that of the first preferred embodiment of the load-bearing segment and lateral extension portions 24', 25' which are supported by the pillar member or post 22 and which are provided on corresponding sides of the pillar member 22, in particular adjacent sides, preferably spaced from each other by an angle of 90°.

Figures 19A to 19D, illustrate a third preferred embodiment of the barrier, which has components identical to those of the embodiments described above and thus not described again so as to avoid making this description too lengthy, but which, unlike the embodiments described above, has a load-bearing segment 112 which consists mainly of resistant structure. The barrier illustrated in Figures 19A to 19D also comprises a non-load-bearing segment 14" which consists solely of a customary sound absorbing panel well known to an expert in the trade and which is fixed to the load-bearing segment 112 through corresponding C-shaped lateral profiles 114.

Further, the third preferred embodiment has a load-bearing segment 112 whose dimensions in width are advantageously reduced compared to the load- bearing segment 12 described above.

In practice, this load-bearing segment of reduced width has a central pillar member 22 which is identical to that of the first preferred embodiment of the load- bearing segment and from which there extend laterally side portions 112b, 112b of reduced width and having respective lightening means 17' whose width is reduced compared to those of the preferred embodiment of the load-bearing segment described above.

As illustrated, the segment 112, like the segment 12, has an outer shell 127 of preferably reinforced cementitious conglomerate and transversal stiffening portions 126 extending from the central pillar member 22 and also made of reinforced cementitious conglomerate.

As illustrated in Figure 20, the third preferred embodiment of the barrier comprises a non-load-bearing segment 14" ' which consists solely of a customary transparent panel well known to an expert in the trade.

Figure 21 illustrates a further preferred embodiment of the barrier, which has components identical to those of the embodiments described above and thus not described again so as to avoid making this description too lengthy, but whose foundation for the load-bearing segment, unlike the embodiments described above, is defined by a prefabricated plinth 116 provided between two string course elements 116', 116' between which the prefabricated plinth 116 is secured. The load-bearing segment 12 is suitably anchored to the plinth 116, in particular using grouting obtained, for example, from quick setting casting mortar. Further, in this embodiment, the load-bearing segment 12 does not have the protruding anchoring portion 121 of the pillar member 122.

Figure 22 illustrates a further preferred embodiment of the barrier, which has components identical to those of the embodiments described above and thus not described again so as to avoid making this description too lengthy, but whose foundation for the load-bearing segment, unlike the embodiments described above, is defined by a prefabricated plinth 216 provided between two string course elements 216', 216' between which the prefabricated plinth 216 is secured. The load-bearing segment 12 is suitably anchored to the plinth 216, in particular using fastening bolts inserted into corresponding threaded bushings embedded in opposite walls of the plinth 216, defining the socket into which the load-bearing segment is inserted and which have a respective end for abutting against the opposed front and rear faces of the load-bearing segment. In this embodiment, too, the load-bearing segment does not have the protruding anchoring portion 121 of the pillar member 122.

Figures 23 A to 24B, illustrate a further preferred embodiment of the barrier, which has components identical to those of the embodiments described above and thus not described again so as to avoid making this description too lengthy, but whose connection between the load-bearing segment and the barrier portion 13 above it, unlike the embodiments described above, has advantageous means for preventing the slackening of the bolts 123b by which the post M of the upper barrier part 13 is connected to the load-bearing segment 12 of the barrier part below it. The first preferred embodiment of the bolt slackening prevention means comprises, for each anchor bolt 123b, a plate-like element 129 fixable in engageable/disengageable manner to the connecting element, and in particular having a shaped end 129a designed to be coupled to the head of the connecting element. The other end of the bolt slackening prevention element 129 defines a surface 129b for engaging a matching abutment surface of the barrier when the bolt slackening prevention element 129 and the corresponding connecting element 123b rotate, the engagement surface 129b being defined by the inside or vertical face of a downwardly directed portion 129c of the bolt slackening prevention element 129. In practice, as illustrated, in particular in Figure 23B, the bolt slackening prevention element 129, if viewed from the side, has the general shape of an L with, at one end of it, a bent portion 129a for coupling to the connecting element 123b.

Figures 25 A and 25B illustrate a second preferred embodiment 219 of the bolt slackening prevention means. This second bolt slackening prevention element 219b has, if viewed from the side, a stepped shape, with a lower end portion 219b for engaging a corresponding surface of the barrier and at one end of which there extends a shaped portion 219a for coupling to the connecting element 123b.

The barrier contemplates two preferred embodiments for the fastening of the upper barrier part 13 to the load-bearing segment 12 of the lower part.

In a first preferred embodiment of the means for fastening the upper barrier part 13 to the load-bearing segment 12, as illustrated in Figure 2A, the plate 123a of the post M of the upper barrier part 13 is housed in a suitable recess or pocket 123', and is bolted to the load-bearing segment 12 by suitable threaded anchoring means 123b bolted into bushes which are embedded in the selfsame load-bearing segment 12, the recess or pocket being filled with cementitious mortar and/or resin in order to embed and fix the anchor bolts 123b.

In a second preferred embodiment of the means for fastening the upper barrier part 13 to the load-bearing segment 12, as illustrated in Figures 23 A and 25A, the plate 123a of the post M of the upper barrier part 13 is placed on the top surface 12a of the segment 12 or, if necessary, on the bottom surface of a recess or pocket of reduced height adapted to accommodate only a part of the anchor plate, and letting the top face of the selfsame plate remain exposed. The latter embodiment is not illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The plate is bolted to the load-bearing segment 12 by suitable threaded anchoring means 123b bolted into bushes which are embedded in the selfsame load-bearing segment 12 and then grouted using suitable cementitious mortar and/or resin in such a way that only the bottom of the plate is grouted, while its top face and the anchor bolts are left free of grouting.

In a further preferred embodiment of the barrier, illustrated in Figure 26, the barrier comprises a load-bearing segment whose lower portion to be inserted into the socket in the plinth extends for the same length as the selfsame load-bearing segment and is advantageously oblique relative to the plinth.

Advantageously, in a yet further embodiment of the barrier, illustrated in Figures 27 A and 27B, and partly reproduced in detail also in Figures 3H and 31, and where the components similar to those of the previous embodiments are labelled with the same reference characters and, for brevity and convenience, will not be described again in detail, the respective infill segment 14 has a portion R which is longitudinally recessed relative to the corresponding lateral face 14c, 14d, and in particular a first and a second longitudinally recessed portion R, R provided on opposite sides of the segment, and which, in use, is adapted to accommodate a portion S which protrudes longitudinally from the respective lateral face 12c, 12d of a corresponding load-bearing segment 12.

As illustrated, the recess R and the protrusion S are provided at the back of the respective segment 12 and 14, that is to say, on the side facing the environment surrounding the infrastructure and preferably define mutual coupling means for the load-bearing segment when the infill segment is applied to the load- bearing segment.

As may be easily inferred from the drawings, the height of the upper barrier part 13 is greater than that of the lower barrier part 12, the upper barrier part 13 being in particular almost twice as high as the lower barrier part 12. Moreover, as may be easily inferred from the drawings, the upper barrier part 13 extends in substantially the same plane as the lower barrier part 12.

Further, the lightening means or blocks 17, 19 may be made, for example, of expanded polystyrene or any other suitable light-weight material.

The invention described above is susceptible of industrial application. It would be obvious to one skilled in the art that several changes and modifications can be made to the invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, described in depth above. In particular, one skilled in the art could easily imagine further embodiments of the invention comprising one or more of the features described herein. Moreover, it will be understood that all the details of the invention may be substituted by technically equivalent elements.