FIELD

[0001 ] Various embodiments of a mounting assembly for mounting a bollard to a base and a bollard assembly are described in this specification.

SUMMARY

[0002] Exemplary embodiments of a mounting assembly for use in mounting a boilard to a base comprise

a base connector for connecting the mounting assembl to the base, the base connector including a fastening arrangement that is configured for operative

engagement with the base such the base connector is operatively connected to the base at a position aligned with or below an upper surface of the base;

a bollard connector for connecting the bollard to the mounting assembly; and a biasing mechanism arranged between the base connector and bollard connector for biasing the mounting assembly and thus the bollard into an upright condition, the base and the biasing mechanism being configured to enable the bollard to be deflected towards a substrate to accommodate a vehicle striking and passing over the boilard and to enable the bollard to return to its upright condition,

[0003] The biasing mechanism may include a coil spring that is connected between the base connector and the bollard connector, the coil spring being configured for deflection when the bollard is deflected towards the substrate.

[0004] The base may be generally planar and may define an opening, the base connector including an upper retainer for positioning on the upper surface of the base and a lower retainer for positioning on a lower surface of the base, the fastening arrangement being configured for fastening the retainers to each other and the biasing mechanism to the upper retainer, such that the base is received between the retainers and the biasing member is secured with respect to the base.

[0005] The upper and lower retainers each include a central spacing formation that can be positioned in the opening and a flange extending from the spacing formation, the fastening arrangement being configured to engage the spacing formations so that at least an inner peripheral region of the base can be received between the flanges. [0006] Each spacing formation may define an opening and the openings can be brought into register with each other, the fastening arrangement including a fastener that can be received through the ope ings and which is operable to fasten the spacing formations and thus the retainers together.

[0007] The coil spring may be configured for engagement with the fastener so that the fastener can also serve to fasten the coil spring to the upper retainer.

[0008] A threaded socket may be arranged in a lower end of the coil spring so that the fastener can be threaded into the socket.

[0009] The base may be generally planar and may define an opening, the base including a first coupling member that is at ieast partially received in the opening, the mounting assembly including a second coupling member that is fastened to the biasing member and is configured for coupling to the first coupling member.

[0010] The second coupling member may define a threaded formation to permit the second coupling member to be threaded onto a lower end of the coil spring.

[001 13 The first coupling member may include one part of a twist and release coupling positioned in the opening below the upper surface of the base and the second coupling member may include another part of the twist and release coupling so that the parts can engage or disengage by lowering and twisting the mounting assembly or twisting and raising the mounting assembly.

[0012] At Ieast a lower portion of the bollard connector may be hollow, the mounting assembly including an insert that can be received in said tower portion, the insert being configured for operative engagement with the mounting assembly.

[0013| At Ieast one pin may extend from the insert, the, or each, pin being receivable through a respective opening in a wall of the bollard to secure the insert to the bollard.

[00143 The pin(s) may be spring mounted on the insert so that the pi (s) can be depressed from outside the bollard to release the bo!lard from the insert.

[0015] The insert may define one or more openings to accommodate one or more fasteners that can be received through a wall of the bollard to fasten the insert to the bollard.

[00183 A shank of a bolt can be received through the insert so that the insert can be bolted to the bollard.

[00173 A threaded socket may be received in an upper end of the coil spring so that the insert can be fastened to the coil spring with a suitable threaded fastener received through part of the insert. [0018] The insert may define a threaded formation to permit an upper end of the coil spring to be threaded into the insert.

[0019] Exemplary embodiments of a method of mounting a bollard to a base with a mounting assembly as described above comprise the steps of:

connecting the mounting assembly to the base with the fastening arrangement by operatively engaging the fastening arrangement to the base at a position below an upper surface of the base; and

connecting the bollard to the mounting assembly with the bollard connector.

[0020] Exemplary embodiments of a bollard assembly comprise

a bollard; and

a mounting assembly as described above.

[00213 Exemplary embodiments of a bollard assembly comprise

a base;

a mounting assembly that is mountable on the base; and

a bollard, the bollard being mountable on the mounting assembly to extend from the base, wherein

the mounting assembly includes

a base connector for connecting the mounting assembly to the base;

a bollard connector for connecting the bollard to the mounting assembly; and a biasing mechanism for biasing the mounting assembly and thus the bollard into an upright condition, the base and the biasing mechanism being configured to enable the bollard to be deflected towards a substrate to accommodate a vehicle striking and passing over the bollard assembly while the base is inhibited from being displaced relative to the substrate and to enable the bollard to return to its upright condition.

[0022] Exemplary embodiments of an accessory for a bollard assembly having a base and a bo Hard extending from the base comprise

a mounting assembly that is mountable on the base, the mounting assembly including

a base connector for connecting the mounting assembly to the base;

a bollard connector for connecting the bollard to the mounting assembly; and a biasing mechanism for biasing the mounting assembly and thus the bollard into an upright condition, the biasing mechanism being configured to enable the bollard to be deflected towards a substrate to accommodate a vehicle striking and passing over the boilard assembly while the base is inhibited from being displaced relative to the substrate and to enable the bollard to return to its upright condition.

[0023] The bollard may be of a moulded plastics material.

[0024] The base may be in the form of a generally planar element with sufficient weight to support the bollard in an upright condition, !n one embodiment, the base may be of a flexible materia! such as reconstituted ground or comminuted rubber, in another embodiment, the base can be of a moulded flexible material, such as an eiastomeric material.

[0025] The biasing mechanism may be a coil spring that is interposed between the base connector and the bollard connector. The coil spring may be configured to be bent in excess of 90 degrees without coils being urged out of alignment or being deformed out of an operative condition.

[0026] The bollard may be tubular. The bollard may also be cylindrical. The boilard connector may include a cylindrical support structure that is dimensioned to be received in the bollard. The support structure may define a recess in which one end of the spring can be received.

[0027] The cylindrical support structure may include a locking arrangement to lock the support structure to the bollard. The locking arrangement may be in the form of one or more locking pins thai can be received through corresponding openings in the bollard. The locking pins may be spring mounted on the support structure so that they can be depressed against a bias of a spring to release the bollard from the support structure.

[0028] The bollard may be of a translucent material that is capable of being lit from within. A lighting arrangement may be positioned or located in the bollard to light up the bollard. The bollard may also include a window so that light generated in the bollard can be emitted from the window to enhance visibility of the boilard, particularly at night.

[0029] Also, light from outside can pass through a wall of the bollard. A solar cell can therefore be mounted on the support structure to generate electrical power for a rechargeable battery that can be used to light the boilard.

[00303 The word "bollard" is to be given its broad i terpretatio as encompassing various forms of posts that are used in public and other areas for a number of purposes. One such purpose is to guide, direct or bar traffic in the form of vehicles and/or pedestrians. Furthermore, it is to be understood that any number of vehicles and/or pedestrians can constitute "traffic", in the context of this specification, the boilard assembly can serve as a barrier, for example, with rope or cord interconnecting a number of the bollard assemblies, a guide, for example with suitable colours and/or lighting or any other form of traffic guidance, control or indicating function, in some cases, "bollard" also covers a non-cylindricai elongate article, such as a flat traffic indicator of the type that may be found alongside a road. "Bollard" might also cover standalone articles, such as sculptural or ornaments articles used in public spaces and that might experience damage if not permitted to flex and return to an original position.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] Figure 1 shows a schematic side sectioned view of a lower part of an exemplary embodiment of a boilard assembly,

[0032] Figure 2 shows an exemplary embodiment of an accessory for the bollard assembly of figure 1.

[0033] Figure 3 shows the accessory of figure 2 mounted in a base of the bollard assembly.

[0034] Figure 4 shows another view of the accessory for the bollard assembly.

[0035] Figure 5 shows an exemplary embodiment of a bollard assembly in a deflected condition.

[0036] Figure 6 shows a top part of the bollard assembly of figure 1.

[0037] Figure 7 shows a plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a base of the bollard assembly.

[0038] Figure 8 shows a side sectioned view of the base of figure 8.

[0039] Figure 9 shows a view from above of an exemplary embodiment of a mounting assembly for the bollard assembly.

[0040] Figure 10 shows a view from the side of the mounting assembly of figure 9.

[004 3 Figure 11 shows a view from below of the mounting assembl of figure 9.

[0042] Figure 12 shows a view from the side of the mounting assembly of figure 9 mounted on a base.

[00433 Figure 13 shows a view from above of part of a base connector arranged on the base.

[00443 Figure 14 shows a view from above of another part of a base connector arranged on the base.

[0045] Figure 15 shows a fastener used to secure the parts of figures 13 and 14 to each othe with the base interposed between the parts. [0046] Figure 18 shows a view from underneath of the parts of figures 13 and 14 connected or secured together with the fastener of figure 15,

[0047] Figure 17 shows various components of the mounting assembly of figure 9.

[0048] Figure 18 shows a bottom plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a mounting assembly for the bollard assembly.

[0049] Figure 19 shows a side view of the mounting assembly of figure 18.

[0050] Figure 20 shows a top plan view of the mounting assembly of figure 18.

[00513 Figure 21 shows a further side view of the mounting assembly of figure 18, [0052] Figure 22 shows a three dimensional vtewof the mounting assembly of figure 18.

[0053] Figure 23 shows a side view of a coil spring assembly suitable for a mounting assembly for the bollard assembly.

[0054] Figure 24 shows a side sectioned view through A-A of the coii spring assembly of figure 23.

[0055] Figure 25 shows a plan view of the coil spring assembly of figure 23.

[0056] Figure 26 shows a bottom plan view of a retainer of a base connector suitable for a mounting assembly for the bollard assembly.

[0057] Figure 27 shows a side view of the retainer.

[0058] Figure 28 shows a side secttoned view of the retainer.

[0059] Figure 29 shows a top plan view of the retainer.

[0060] Figure 30 shows a top plan view of an insert suitable for a mounting assembly for the bollard assembly.

[0061] Figure 31 shows a side view of the insert.

[0062] Figure 32 shows a bottom plan view of the insert.

[0063] Figure 33 shows another side view of the insert.

[0064] Figure 34 shows a side sectioned view of the insert taken though A-A in figure 33.

[00853 Figure 35 shows a three dimensional view of the insert.

[00663 Figure 36 shows a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a mounting assembly suitable for the bollard assembly.

[00673 Fi u e 37 shows a top plan view of the mounting assembly of figure 38.

[0068] Figure 38 shows a bottom plan view of a coupling member for connection to a coil spring and suitable for use with a mounting assembly.

[0069] Figure 39 shows a side view of th coupling member of figure 38. [0070] Figure 40 shows a bottom plan view of the coupling member of figure 38 engaged with a coupling member for fastening to a base and suitable for use with a mounting assembly.

[0071] Figure 41 shows the coupling members disengaged.

[0072] Figure 42 shows a view from the side of a keyhole or slot formation of the coupli g member for fastening to the base of the bollard assembly.

[0073] Figure 43 shows a view from below of the part of the keyhole or slot formation shown in figure 42.

[0074] Figure 44 shows a side, exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of a bollard assembly.

[0075] Figure 45 shows a three dimensional, exploded view of the bollard assembly of figure 25.

[0076] Figure 46 shows an internal thread of the coupling member of figure 38 for threading onto the coil spring.

[0077] Figure 47 shows an internal thread of an insert for threading onto the coil spring.

[0078] Figure 48 shews a side sectioned view of an exemplary embodiment of a bollard assembly incorporating an exemplary embodiment of a mounting assembly.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0079] In figure 1 , a bollard 10 of an exemplary embodiment of a bollard assembly is mounted on a base 12 with an exemplary embodiment of a mounting assembly 14.

[0080] The mounting assembly 14 includes a base connector 18 for connecting the mounting assembly 14 to the base 12. A bollard connector 18 connects the bollard 10 to the mounting assembly 14.

[0081 ] The mounting assembly 14 includes a biasing mechanism in the form of a coil spring 20 to bias the assembly 14 and thus the bollard 10 into an upright condition.

[0082] The base 12 and the coil spring 20 are configured to enable the bollard 10 to be deflected towards a substrate to accommodate a vehicle striking and passing over the bollard assembly and to enable the bollard to return to its upright condition. The base 12 can be configured to resist frictionaily displacement relative to the substrate by the vehicle. S

[0083] The bollard 10 Is of a moulded plastics material. The bollard 10 can be a conventional bollard.

[0084] The base 12 is a generally planar element with sufficient weight to support the bollard in an upright condition. The base 12 can be of a number of different materials, in this example, the base 12 is moulded of a flexible material, for example, an elastomeric material. The weight and material of the base 12 is selected so that the base 12 is inhibited from lateral displacement or sliding over the substrate while the bollard 0 is deflected to accommodate a vehicie passing over the bollard. One example of a suitable material for the base is recycled tyre rubber. Such material is particularly suited for use on roads because of its inherent characteristics.

[0085] The base 12 and the bollard 10 are dimensioned so that, when the bollard 10 is bent ove or def lected to accommodate a vehicle, the overall height of the base 12 and the bollard 10 is less than about 100 mm to 200 mm, for example, about 140 mm. This allows most standard passenger vehicles to pass over the bollard 10 when it is so bent over or deflected.

[0086] The bollard connector 18 includes a cylindrical support structure in the form of an insert 22 that can be received in the bollard 10. The insert 22 includes a locking or connecting arrangement to lock or connect the insert to the bollard 10. The locking or connecting arrangement is in the form of a pair of pins 24 that can be received through corresponding openings 28 defined in the bollard 10. The locking pins 24 are each mounted on the insert 22 with a spring mechanism 2S to bias the pins 24 a ay from the insert 22 and through the openings 28 to retain or lock the bollard 10 to the insert 22. The pins 24 and associated mechanisms 26 are configured so that the pins 24 can be depressed to release the bollard 10 from the insert 22.

[0087] The insert 22 defines a recess 36 in which one end 38 of the coil spring 20 is fastened.

[0088] The base connector 16 includes a base plate 30. A cylindrical mounting stub 32 extends from the base plate 30. The base 12 defines an opening 33 in which the stub 32 can be an interference fit to retain the base 12 on the base plate 30.

[0089] A cylindrical wall 34 extends from the base plate 30 to be concentric with, and internal of, the stub 32. An opposite end 40 of the coil spring 20 is received and secured in the wall 34. Thus, the stub 32 and the wall 34 define a fastening arrangement of the base connector. [0090] The wali 34 and the stub 32 define an annular recess 42. A lower end 44 of the bollard 10 is received in the recess 42 as a snug or interference fit at position aligned with or below an upper surface 35 of the base 12. The lower end 44 is defined by a flared or skirt portion 46 that is received in the annular recess 42 by pushing down on the bollard 10. it follows that the coil spring 20 and the insert 22 are received entirely in the bollard 10. This provides the bollard 10 with the appearance of a conventional bollard. This a!so serves to protect the spring 20 and the insert 22 from inclement weather and, to some degree, from rain and splashing resulting from passing vehicles, [0091] Furthermore, it will be appreciated that the bollard 10 can be substantially the same as a conventional bollard with the exception of the openings 28, It follows that an existing bollard can be customised for mounting on the mounting assembly 14.

[0092] The coil spring 20 is selected so that it can repetitively fiex into the position shown in figure 5 and back out again. Aiso, the coils are not deformed and do not move out of alignment or slip past each other when in the deflected condition shown in figure 5.

[0093] The base plate 12 has a diameter of between about 160 mm a nd 180 mm, for example about 170 mm. The stub 32 has an outer diameter of between about 105 mm and 125 mm, for example, about 113 mm. The wall 34 has an outer diameter of between about 85 mm and 100 mm, for example, about 93 mm.

[0094] A height of the mounting assembly 14 is between about 160 mm and 200 mm, for example, about 180 mm. A thickness of the base plate 30 is between a out 3 mm and 7 mm, for example, about 5 mm. A height of the stub 32 and the wail 34 is between about 25 mm and 35 mm, for example, about 30 mm. A length of the insert 22 is between about 60 mm and 100 mm, for exampfe about 80 mm.

[0095] The coil spring 20 has an unextended length of between about 120 mm and 180 mm, for example, about 150 mm. An outer diameter of the spring 20 is between about 75 mm and 95 mm, for example, about 88 mm. Spring wire of the spring 20 has a diameter of between about 5 mm and 7 mm, for exampte, about 5.9 mm. The spring 20 has between 20 and 30 coils, for example, 26 coils. The spring wire is of conventional spring steel.

[0096] The bollard 10 has a height of between about 1 m and 1 ,7m. The base 12 is configured to support the bollard 10 in an upright condition in normal use. The combination of the base 12 and the spring 20 is such that the bollard 10 can be deflected to accommodate a vehicle passing over the bollard with a minimal extent of movement of the base 12 relative to the substrate. Furthermore, the combination of the spring 20 and the base 12 is such that damage to the bollard 10 is minimised as a result of being struck by the vehicle.

[0097] A fit of the flared or skirt portion 46 in the recess 36 is such that, when the bollard 10 is struck, the portion 46 can pop out of or disengage from the recess 36 substantial without damage to, or minimising damage to, the bollard 10.

[0098] The bollard 10 is of a translucent plastics material. It follows that the bollard is capable of being lit from within. Thus, an elongate LED lighti g assembly 48 is mounted on the insert 22 to exte d into the bollard 10. A solar cell assembly 50 with a

rechargeable battery 52 is mounted on the insert 22 to power the LED assembly 48 via a suitable lead 54. The transluceney of the bollard 10 permits the battery 52 to be charged while the insert 22 is positioned in the bollard 10.

[0099] The bollard 10 includes a lens structure 56 (figure 6). The lens structure 58 is positioned in a wall 58 of the bollard 10 so that light from the LED assembly 48 can be emitted from the bollard 10 through the lens structure 56.

[0100] in figures 7 and 8, there is shown an exemplary embodiment of a base 60 for use with the bollard assembly. With reference to the preceding drawings, like reference numbers refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified. The use of common reference numerals is. not intended to limit the scope of the appended claims or the definitions in the Summary portion. It is also to be understood that the components descrtbed in the preceding drawings can be interchanged with the components described below, where practical, to arrive at embodiments that are also to be considered as forming the subject matter of this description.

[0101] The base 60 is hexagonal in plan and defines the opening 33. A solar cell assembly 62 is embedded in the base 60. Electrical leads 64 extend from the soiar cell assembly 62 to the opening 33 for connection to the LED assembly 48.

[0102] The base 60 defines a handle opening 66 to facilitate movement of the base 60 from place to place.

[0103] in figures 9 to 12, reference numeral 70 generally indicates an exemplary embodiment of a mounting assembly. The mounting assembfy is suitable for use with the bollard 10, a conventional bollard, or with a bollard shown in figures 44 and 45, described bebw. With reference to the preceding drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts or components, unless otherwise specified. The use of common reference numerals is not intended to limit the scope of the appended claims or the definitions in the Summary portion. It is also to be understood that the components described in the preceding drawings can be interchanged with the components described below, where practical, to arrive at embodiments that are also to be considered as forming the subject matter of this description.

[0104] The insert 22 is of metal. For example, the insert 22 is of steel or aluminium.

[0105] The locking pins 24 are mounted on spring assemblies 72 arranged on respective ends of a rod or shaft 74 that can be positioned to span a volume defined by the insert 22 with the pins 24 extending through a cylindrical wall 76 of the insert 22.

[0106] The insert 22 includes a floor plate 78 that blanks off the volume. An upper socket (not shown) of the coii spring 20 is mounted on a bottom surface of the plate 78 with a suitable fastener, such as a bolt 80 received through the floor plate 78.

[0107] A bottom plate or threaded socket 82 (figure 17) is fastened to a bottom end of the spring 20. The threaded socket 82 has an opening 84 into whic a fastener of the fastening arrangement can be screwed.

[0108] The base connector 18 includes an upper retainer 86 and a lower retainer 88. The retainers 86, 88 include respective spacing formations 94, 96 and flanges 90, 92 that extend from respective spacing formations 94, 96 so that part of the base 12 can be received between the flanges 90, 92. The upper retainer 86 can include a spacing formation 94 that defines a right cylindrical recess when viewed from above. The lower retainer 88 can include a spacing formation 96 that defines a right cylindrical recess when viewed from below. The flanges 90, 92 extend radially from peripheries of the respective recesses.

[0109] Thus, a peripheral region 98 (figure 13 for example) of the base 12 about the opening 33 can be sandwiched or located between the flanges 90, 92.

[0110] Each of the formations 94, 96 defines a respective opening 99, 100. Thus, a bolt or other suitable fastener of the fastening arrangement can be inserted through the openings 99, 100, from underneath, to be threaded into the socket 82, so securing the spring 20 to the base 12, via the retainers 86, 88. Thus, the fastening arrangement is configured for operative engagement with the base such that the base connector 16 is operatively connected to the base at a position aiigned with, or below, the upper surface 35.

[011 | An example of a suitable fastener of the fastening arrangement is shown in figure 5 and referenced with numeral 102. The fastener 102 has a threaded shank 104 extending from a head 106. A handle or finger-grip formation extends from the head 106 so that a user can connect the spring 20 to the retainers 86, 88 without the need for tools. In this example, the finger grip formation is a pair of diametrically opposed rods or arms 108 that extend from the head 108.

[0112] The upper retainer 86 defines a number of circumferentially spaced openings 109 so that the flange 90 can be screwed to the base 12 with suitable self -tapping screws. The upper retainer 86 can form part of, and be supplied with, the base 12. This is facilitated due to the flange 90 being g nerally flush with a body of the base 12 and the spacing formation 94 being positioned in the opening 33. As a result, a plurality of the bases can be stacked flat against each other for storage and conveyance.

[0 13| In this example, the retainers 86, 88 are of metal, such as steel or aluminium.

[0114] in figures 18 to 22, reference numeral 150 generally indicates an exemplary embodiment of a mounting assembly. With reference to the preceding drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts or components, unless otherwise specified. The use of common reference numerals is not i tended to limit the scope of the appended claims or the definitions in the Summary portion. It is also to be understood that the components described in the preceding drawings can be interchanged with the components described below, where practical, to arrive at embodiments that are also to be considered as forming the subject matter of this description.

[0115] instead of the pins 24, a bolt 152 is received through the cylindrical wall 76 of the insert 22. The bolt 152 has a shank 154 that is received through the cylindrical wall 76 and through the wail 58 of the bollard 10. A nut 158 is threaded onto the shank 154 so that the bollard 10 can be secured to the insert 22 by tightening the nut 156.

[0116| The di mensions of the mounting assembly 150 var according to the bollard 10 with which it is intended to be used. In particular, the insert 22 has a shape that corresponds with a hollow, lower end of the bollard 10.

[0 17] in this example, the mounting assembly has an overall height of between about 150 mm and 200mm, for example, between about 170 mm and 180 mm. A diameter of the insert is between about 70 mm and 110 mm, for example between about 90 mm and 100 mm. A diameter of each retainer 86, 88 is between about 130 mm and 170 mm, for example between about 140 mm and 180 mm.

[01 83 The bolt 152 is located between about 120 mm and 160 mm , for example, between about 30 mm and 150 mm, above the flange 90 of the upper retainer 86.

[01193 Figures 23 to 25 show an exemplary embodiment of a biasing mechanism in the form of a coil spring assembly 160 for use with the mounting assembly 150. [0120] The assembly 160 includes a coil spring 162. An internally threaded socket 164 is fitted into each end of the spring 162. An external, peripheral lip 166 bears against each end of the spring 162. One of the sockets 164 permits the floor plate 78 of the insert to be bolted to the spring assembly 160 with the bolt 80. The other of the sockets 164 permits the spring assembly 160 to be bolted to the upper retainer 86.

[0 21] The retainers can be fabricated in a number of ways. One example is shown in figures 26 to 29. in this example, the formations 94, 96 are formed by welding a cylindrical wall 168 to an internal periphery of the flange 90, 92. A blank 170 defining the opening 98, 100 is then welded to the cylindrical wall 168.

[0122] In figures 30 to 35, detail of the steel or aluminium insert 22 is shown.

[0123] The floor plate 78 is welded into place. The cylindrical wall 76 defines diametrically opposed openings 172 to accommodate the bolt 152.

[0124] Thus, a conventional bollard can be slightly modified by forming diametrically opposed openings to correspond with the openings 172. The bollard can then be slipped over the insert 22 and the bolt 152 pushed through the openings in the bollard and the openings 172. The nut 156 is then screwed on to the shank 154 to fasten the bollard to the insert 20.

[0125] In some cases, it is desirable that a number of the components be of a plastics material.

[0126] Thus, in figures 36 to 45, reference numeral 110 generally indicates a further exemplary embodiment of a mounting assembly for use with a bollard or bollard, an example of which is indicated in figures 36 and 37 with reference numeral 1 12. With reference to the preceding drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified. The use of common reference numerals is not intended to limit the scope of the appended claims or the definitions in the Summary portion. It is also to be understood that the components described in the preceding drawings can be

interchanged with the components described below, where practical, to arrive at embodiments that are also to be considered as forming the subject matter of this description.

[0127] The mounting assembly 1 0 includes an insert 114 that is similar to the insert 22. The insert 1 14 is of a plastics material. The locking pins 24 are spring-mounted in the insert 114.

[0128] The base connector 6 includes a first coupling member 16 that can be fastened to the base 12. The coupling member 116 defines a coupling formation that can extend into the opening 33. A second coupling member 118 is arranged on a lower end of the spring 20 and defines a complementary coupling formation. Thus, when the first coupling member 116 is fastened to the base 12, the spring 20 can be coupled to the base 12 via the second coupling member 118 at a position aligned with, or below, the upper surface 35 of the base 12, instead, the first coupling member 1 16 can form part of the base 12. Thus, the first coupling member 116 can be fastened to a body of the base 12 with the coupling formation extending into the opening 33.

[0129] The first coupling member 116 includes a sleeve 120. A flange 122 extends radially from an upper end of the sleeve 120. The flange 122 defines a series of openings 124 so that the flange 122 can be fastened to an upper surface of the base 12 with the sleeve 120 extending into the opening 33,

[0130] The sleeve 120 has dimensions that allow it to be received through the opening 33 with the flange 122 bearing against the base 12.

[013 3 A lower end of the sleeve 120 is partially closed by a floor 126. The floor 126 defines a slotted opening or slot 128. A stop member or stop 129 is arranged on the floor 126 adjacent an edge of the slot 128 {figures 40 to 43).

[0132] The second coupling member 118 includes a cap 130. A key formation or key 132 is arranged on the cap 130. The key 132 includes a lug 134 mounted on a shank 136 thai extends from the cap 130.

[0133] The lug 134 can be received through the slot 128. Then, the mounting assembly 110 is twisted so that e nds of the lug 134 engage the floor 126 to inhibit subsequent withdrawal of the second coupling member 118 from the first coupling member 116.

[0134] The stop 129 is positioned so that as the lug 34 rotates, it can bear against the stop 129, so inhibiting full 180° rotation of the lug 134, which would result in releasing the coupling members 116, 118 from each other.

[0135] Thus, in use, attachment and detachment of the mounting assembly 11Q from the base 12 is facilitated and can be carried out without the use of tools or the need for accessing the base 12 from underneath. Furthermore, such attachment and detachment is carried out bayonet-fashion, which only requires a twist and lifting or lowering of the bollard when it is attached to the mounting assembly.

[0136] In one application, the insert 114 can be permanently or temporarily attached to the boilard 10. The first coupling member 116 can be pre-attached to the base 12 or can form part of the base 12. Thus, a user can simply position the bollard 10 appropriately, with gravity dropping the lug 134 through the slot, and twist the bollard 10 to engage the base 12. When removed, the base 12 remains substantially fiat since the sleeve 120 terminates in the opening 120 and the flange 122 lies fiat on the upper surface 25. This facilitates stacking of the bases for transport or storage while the base 12 serves to protect the sleeve 20 and associated coupling formation.

[0137] In figures 44 and 45, the insert 1 14 is shown attached to the bollard 10 with a number of screws or fasteners 138 that are screwed through a wall 140 of the bollard 10. Thus, the insert 1 14 includes a number of threaded openings 141 to receive the screws 138. This embodiment is illustrative of an exemplary embodiment of a method of connecting the mounting assembly 1 10 to a conventional bollard. In that method, the screws, in the form of self -tapping screws, can simply be screwed through the wait of the boliard without the need to make holes or openings. Alternatively, holes or openings can be formed in the wall of the bollard to accommodate the screws or fasteners 138 that are threaded into the openings 141.

[0138] In one example, the insert 114 defines a threaded passage 142. An interna! thread 144 of the passage 142 corresponds with the external profile of the spring 20 so that the spring 20 can be screwed into the passage 142. Likewise, the cap 130 defines an internally threaded passage 143 with an interna! thread 145 so that the cap 130 can be screwed onto the spring 20.

[0139] Further in this example, the coupling members 116, 1 18 are of a plastics material, in particular, the coupling members 116, 1 18 can be moulded or machined of the plastics material.

[0140] It is to be appreciated that in the embodiments shown in figures 36 to 45, the second coupli ng me mber 118 can form an iniegra I part of the base 12. Thus, the base 12 can be moulded or otherwise fabricated to define the floor 128 and the opening or slot 128 in the floor 126. If follows that the base 12 can also be moulded or otherwise fabricated to define the stop 129. Thus, there would be provided a two-piece assembly in the form of the mounting assembly 1 10 and the base 12 such that the mounting assembly 1 10 can be coupled directly to the base 2.

[0141] The inventor(s) envisages that it may be desirable for the metal retainers 86, 88 to be used with the insert 1 14, which can be of a plastics-type material. Thus, in figure 48, reference numeral 180 generally indicates, schematically, an exemplary embodiment of a bollard assembly that incorporates a further exemplary embodiment of a mounting assembly 182. With reference to the preceding drawings, !ike reference numerals refer to like parts, unless otherwise specified. The use of common reference numerals is not intended to limit the scope of the appended claims or the definitions in the Summary portion. It is also to be understood that the components described in the preceding drawings can be interchanged with the components described below, where practical, to arrive at embodiments that are also to be considered as forming the subject matter of this description,

[0142] In various exemplary embodiments, the coil spring 162 can have an overall length of between about 130 mm and 180 mm, for example between about 150 mm and 160 mm. The outside diameter of the cot! spring 162 is between about 30 mm and 50 mm, for example between about 35 mm and 45 mm. The spring wire diameter is between about 2 mm and 5 mm, for example between about 3 mm and 4 mm. The spring wire is of steel that is used conventionally for spring fabrication,

[0143] The inventor has found that such spring characteristics provide a spring that can bend sufficiently and over 90 degrees to accommodate the bending over of a bollard while a vehicle passes over the bollard. At the same time, the coils of the spring 162 tend not to slip past each other, which would be undesirable, since the spring could be damaged overtime and cease functioning,

[0144] An exemplary embodiment of a method includes fitting a conventional bollard to either of the mounting assemblies described above. Many conventional bollards have a relatively thin wall of a plastics material. This allows them to deform and bend over without damaging a vehicle that strikes the bollard. Such bollards can be mounted on some form of base to provide stability. Alternatively, they can be mounted directly on a substrate.

[0145] The method entails ma king openings in the wall of the bollard to suit the locking pins 24 or the shank 54 of the bolt 152. The bollard is then slipped ove the insert 22, 114 until its lower end is adjacent or abuts the base 12 and the pins 24 pop out through the holes or the shank 154 can be inserted through the holes and the openings 172 allowing the bollard to be secured to the mounting assembly.

[0146] The above exemplary embodiments allow the use of a base 12 that is simply a flat sheet of rubber-like material, such as recycled tyre rubber, with the opening S3 and, optionally, an opening to define a handle. Such a sheet is a relative low cost item. Also, the thickness of the sheet is selected so that the sheet has a suitable weight for portage and for providing stability to the bollard. When of recycled tyre rubber, the sheet is resistant to abrasion by a road surface and inherentl provides a suitable level of friction to enhance the stability of the bollard. [0147] In the above exemplary embodiments, the mounting assembly is located within the bollard and the base. Thus, the mounting assembly is protected from elements of the external environment, such as rain and water splashing from puddles.

[0148] The base 12 remains in the form of a relatively flat sheet when the bollard and mounting assembly are removed. This facilitates stacking of multiple bases for transport or storage. Also, in some cases, it may be desirable to move bollards from place to place fairly often. It can be inconvenient and time consuming to move the base 12 as well, which will be heavier than the bollard and mounting assembly, in one application, for example with the mounting assembly 1 10, the bollard can be twisted, lifted and conveyed to another base. The base is flat, allowing vehicles to pass over the base, if necessary while the bollard is deployed elsewhere, !n this application, the base 12 can be relatively heavy and can be placed in a semi-permanent manner on a road or similar surface. Furthermore, such a base can be placed in a preformed depression or recess to present a generally flat surface for vehicles or pedestrians. With proper pre-piacement of the bases 12, a limited number of bollards and associated mounting assemblies can be used to set up different traffic control arrangements,

[0149] Throughout the specification, including the claims, where the context permits, the term "comprising" and variants thereof such as "comprise" or "comprises" are to be interpreted as including the stated integer or integers without necessarily excluding any other integers.

[0150] It is to be understood that the terminology employed above is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The described embodiments are intended to be illustrative of the invention, without limiting the scope thereof. The invention is capable of being practised with various modifications and additions as will readily occur to those skilled in the art.

[0151] Various substantially and specifically practical and useful exemplary

embodiments of the claimed subject matter, are described herein, textually and/or graphically, including the best mode, if any, known to the inventors for carrying out the claimed subject matter. Variations (e.g., modifications and/or enhancements) of one or more embodiments described herein might become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading this application. The inventors expect skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate, and the inventors intend for the claimed subject matter to be practiced other than as specifically described herein. Accordingly, as permitted by law, the claimed subject matter includes and covers ail equivalents of the claimed subject matter and afl improvements to the claimed subject matter. Moreover, every combination of the above described elements, activities, and ail possible variations thereof are encompassed by the claimed subject matter unless otherwise clearly indicated herein, clearly and specifically disclaimed, or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

[0152] The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language {e.g., "such as") provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate one or more embodiments and does not pose a limitation on the scope of any claimed subject matter unless otherwise stated. No language in the specification shouid be construed as indicating any non- claimed subject matter as essentia! to the practice of the claimed subject matter.

[0153] The use of words that indicate orientation or direction of travel is not to be considered limiting. Thus, words such as "front", "back", "rear", "side", "up", down", "upper", "lower", "top", "bottom", "forwards", "backwards", "towards", "distal", "proximal", "in", "ouf a nd synonyms, antonyms and derivatives thereof have been selected for convenience only, unless the context indicates otherwise. The inventor envisages that various exemplary embodiments of the claimed subject matter can be supplied in any particular orientation and the claimed subject matter is intended to include such orientations.

[0154] Thus, regardless of the content of any portion (e.g., title, field, background, summary, description, abstract, drawing figure, etc.) of this application, unless clearly specified to the contrary, such as via explicit definition, assertion, or argument, or clearly contradicted by context, with respect to any claim, whether of this application and/or any claim of any application claiming priority hereto, and whether originally presented or otherwise:

a. there is no requirement for the inclusion of any particular described or ilfustrated characteristic, function, activity, or element, any particular sequence of activities, or any particular interrelationship of elements; b. no characteristic, function, activity, or element is "essential"; c. any elements can be integrated, segregated, and/or duplicated; d. any activity can be repeated, any activity can be performed by multiple entities, and/or any activity can be performed in multiple jurisdictions; and e. any activity or element can be specifically excluded, the sequence of activities can vary, and/or the interrelationship of elements can vary. [0155] The use of the terms "a", "ah", "said", "the", and/or similar referents in the context of describing various embodiments (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. The terms "comprising," "having," "including," and "containing" are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning "including, but not limited to,") unless otherwise noted.

[0156] Moreover, when any number or range is described herein, unless clearly stated otherwise, that number or range is approximate. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value and each separate sub range defined by such separate values is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. For example, if a range of 1 to 10 is described, that range includes all values therebetween, such as for example, 1.1, 2.5, 3.335, 5, 6,179, 8.9999, etc., and includes all sub ranges

therebetween, such as for example, 1 to 3.65, 2.8 to 8.14, 1.93 to 9, etc.

[0157] Accordingly, every portion (e.g., title, fieid, background, summary, description, abstract, drawing figure, etc.) of this application, other than the claims themselves, is to be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not as restrictive, and the scope of subject matter protected by any patent that issues based on this application is defined only by the claims of that patent.