Fl ELD OF THE I NVENTI ON

The present invention relates to an impact absorbing post for collision protection, more specifically for high energy impact collision protection. The present invention also relates to a method for assembling such an impact absorbing post and to a use of the impact absorbing post and/or the method for collision protection resilient to an impact of at least 12 kJ.

BACKGROUND

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

A first type of known impact absorbing posts has a metal base member, on which a vertical tube is bolted. The tube is made from an elastically deformable material. However, this type impact absorbing posts is not suited for absorbing a high energy impact, for instance an impact of more than 3 kJ. During collision the tube bends and the metal base member cuts in the tube, damaging the tube. High tensions occur in the tube around the bolts, resulting in further damage and very often in a failure of the impact absorbing post.

A second type of known impact absorbing posts also has a metal base member, on which a first elastically deformable tube is pressed and bolted. Foams are attached to the surfaces of the first tube to absorb part of the impact. A second elastically deformable tube is placed over the first tube and the foams. This type of impact absorbing post cannot withstand high energy impact collisions either. During collision, the second tube will slide over the first tube. The second tube deforms only limited, resulting in that just a small part of the energy of the impact is absorbed by the second tube and the foams. Most of the energy is absorbed by the first tube, often resulting in failure of the first tube near the metal base member. US 4 522 530 discloses a self-erecting roadway marking post. The marking post is able of being repetitively bent through an angle of ninety degrees and of returning to an upright straight position. Consequently, this post is not suited as an impact absorbing post.

DE 297 22 257 describes a traffic beacon with a tubular shaft and an adapter attached to the shaft for fastening the traffic beacon to a base plate. The attachment must be flexible enough to allow the traffic beacon to lay flat when the traffic beacon is run over by a vehicle, without launching the base plate in the air. Again, this makes the traffic beacon unsuited for use as an impacted absorbing post.

FR 2 616 818 concerns a mast for supporting signalization panels. The mast has the advantage that it does not tear off in the event of a collision. However, the mast will deform plastically at the base, which is unwanted for an impact absorbing post.

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

SUMMARY OF THE I NVENTI ON

The present invention and embodiments thereof serve to provide a solution to one or more of above-mentioned disadvantages. To this end, the present invention relates to an impact absorbing post for collision protection according to claim 1.

This impact absorbing post is advantageous as it can absorb high energy impacts of more than 3 kJ due to the use of a primary impact member and at least one inner impact member. Due to the connecting members, the primary impact member will not slide over the at least one inner impact member, forcing the primary impact member to absorb its part of the impact energy and avoiding that the impact energy is mainly absorbed by the at least one inner impact member, resulting in a failure of the at least one inner impact member. Because the at least one inner impact member has a shorter length than the primary impact member, the primary impact member will deform elastically first and only when the primary impact member is bent sufficiently and touches the at least one inner impact member, the at least one inner impact member will start deforming elastically and absorbing energy. The impact absorbing post becomes gradually stiffer when deforming elastically. The placement of the at least one inner impact member inside the connection profile is especially advantageous to avoid that the connection profile cuts at the inside of the primary impact member, resulting in structural damage to the impact absorbing post and finally in failure of it. While bending, the primary impact member will touch mainly the at least one inner impact member and not or only in a limited way the connection profile.

Preferred embodiments of the impact absorbing post are shown in any of the claims 2 to 10.

A specific preferred embodiment relates to an invention according to claim 4.

This embodiment is especially beneficial when having a long impact absorbing post, where the high energy impact of more than 3 kJ is expected to occur at a relative high level above the surface. This could result in buckling of the impact absorbing post. Simply increasing the height of the at least one inner impact member would make the impact absorbing post stiffer, avoiding the buckling of the impact absorbing post, but it would also reduce the elastic deformation of the impact absorbing post and consequently the absorption of the impact energy. The impact energy will be transferred to a large extent to the base member. This could result in that the base member cracks, the impact absorbing post comes off the surface and/or that the surface is damaged. In any of these cases, the impact absorbing post failed. By adding an anti-buckling member, that is placed inside the at least one inner impact member and has a longer length than the at least one inner impact member, buckling of the impact absorbing post is avoided, while the impact absorbing post can still absorb the high energy of the impact. Because the impact is at a high level, a level above the at least one inner impact member, and because the anti-buckling member is not in contact with the primary impact member, the primary impact member will as before deform elastically and absorb the energy of the impact first. Before the primary impact member bends too much and risks to buckle, the primary impact member touches the anti-buckling member and a part of the impact energy is transferred to the anti-buckling member. With further elastic deformation of the primary impact member, the at least one inner impact member is also getting elastically deformed, and the high energy of the impact at a high level above the surface is successfully absorbed in the whole impact absorbing post.

In a second aspect, the present invention relates to a method according to claim 11.

This method is very beneficial because it provides an impact absorbing post that can withstand impact with high energy, even higher than 3 kJ, without failure of the impact absorbing post. The primary impact member, the base member nor the at least one inner impact member will be damaged on impact. The impact absorbing post remains firmly fixed to the surface, without damaging the surface. In the eventuality that a member of the impact absorbing post is damaged, the impact absorbing post can be easily dismantled and the damaged part can be simply replaced, this in contrast to an impact absorbing post where a tube is pressed on the base member. The method also allows a flexible assembly of the impact absorbing post depending on the expected impact energy that should be withstood and the level above the surface where the impact can be expected, by simply changing for instance the number of inner impact members and the length of the inner impact members.

Preferred embodiments of the method are shown in any of the claims 12 to 14.

In a third aspect the present invention relates to a use according to claim 15.

The use as described herein provides an advantageous effect that a collision protection can be provided that is resilient to an impact of at least 12 kJ, that can be easily repaired in the eventuality of damage and that can be adapted in a flexible way depending on the expected impact energy and the level above the surface where the impact can be expected.

DESCRI PTI ON OF Fl GURES

Figure 1 A shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 1 B shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 1A.

Figure 2A shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post, similar to the impact absorbing post of Figure 1A, but with additional elements.

Figure 2 B shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 2A.

Figure 3A shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post, similar to the impact absorbing post of Figure 2A, but with an outer impact member and two inner impact members with a different length compared to Figure 2A.

Figure 3 B shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 3A. Figure 4A shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post, similar to the impact absorbing post of Figure 2A, but with only one inner impact member and with an anti-buckling member.

Figure 4 B shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 4A.

Figure 5 shows a sectional view of an impact absorbing post similar to the impact absorbing post of Figure 4A while absorbing an impact at a high level above the surface.

Figure 6A shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post, similar to the impact absorbing post of Figure 2A, but without an outer impact member. Figure 6 B shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 6A.

Figure 7 A shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post, similar to the impact absorbing post of Figure 2A, but with only one inner impact member, more precisely the longest inner impact member.

Figure 7 B shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 7A.

Figure 8A shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post, similar to the impact absorbing post of Figure 7A, but without an outer impact member. Figure 8 B shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 8A.

Figure 9A shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post, similar to the impact absorbing post of Figure 2A, but with only one inner impact member, more precisely the shortest inner impact member.

Figure 9 B shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 9A.

Figure 1 OA shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post, similar to the impact absorbing post of Figure 9A, but without an outer impact member. Figure 1 OB shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 10A.

Figure 1 1 A shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post, similar to the impact absorbing post of Figure 4A, but without an outer impact member and only one inner impact member with a length equal to the length of the anti-buckling member of the impact absorbing post of Figure 4A.

Figure 1 1 B shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 11A. Figure 1 2A shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post, similar to the impact absorbing post of Figure 2A, but with an outer impact member and two inner impact members with a different length compared to Figure 2A and with one additional inner impact member.

Figure 1 2B shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 12A.

Figure 1 3A shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post with an outer impact member, inner impact members and an anti-buckling member that is formed as a single profile.

Figure 1 3B shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 13A.

Figure 1 4A shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post with a primary impact member with a shorter length and a smaller diameter compared to the impact absorbing post of Figure 2A, with no outer impact members and only one inner impact member.

Figure 1 4B shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 14A.

Figure 1 5A shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post, similar to the impact absorbing post of Figure 14A, but with an inner impact member with a longer length compared to the impact absorbing post of Figure 14A.

Figure 1 5B shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 15A.

Figure 1 6A shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post, similar to the impact absorbing post of Figure 14A, but with an additional inner impact member.

Figure 1 6B shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 16A.

Figure 1 7 A shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post, similar to the impact absorbing post of Figure 16A, but with inner impact members with a different length compared to the impact absorbing post of Figure 16A.

Figure 1 7B shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 17A.

Figure 1 8A shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post, similar to the impact absorbing post of Figure 14A, but with an inner impact member with a shorter length compared to the impact absorbing post of Figure 14A and with an anti-buckling member.

Figure 1 8B shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 18A. Figure 1 9A shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post according to an embodiment of the invention, wherein the impact absorbing post comprises a connector for connection of a horizontal rail to the impact absorbing post.

Figure 1 9B shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 19A.

Figure 20A shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post, similar to the impact absorbing post of Figure 19A, but with additional elements.

Figure 20B shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 20A.

Figure 21 A shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post, similar to the impact absorbing post of Figure 4A but with a primary impact member and an anti-buckling member with a bigger diameter, and a first outer impact member and a first inner impact member with a bigger diameter and a shorter length.

Figure 21 B shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 21A.

DETAI LED DESCRI PTI ON OF THE I NVENTI ON

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

As used herein, the following terms have the following meanings:

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

"Comprise", "comprising", and "comprises" and "comprised of" as used herein are synonymous with "include", "including", "includes" or "contain", "containing", "contains" and are inclusive or open-ended terms that specifies the presence of what follows e.g. component and do not exclude or preclude the presence of additional, non-recited components, features, element, members, steps, known in the art or disclosed therein. Furthermore, the terms first, second, third and the like in the description and in the claims, are used for distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily for describing a sequential or chronological order, unless specified. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and that the embodiments of the invention described herein are capable of operation in other sequences than described or illustrated herein.

The recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numbers and fractions subsumed within that range, as well as the recited endpoints.

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

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

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

In the context of this document, substantially parallel means that two directions make an angle of at most 15°, preferably at most 10°, more preferably at most 5° and even more preferably at most 3°. In the context of this document, when referring to the energy that an impact absorbing post can withstand, the impact absorbing post has been tested according to the standard PAS13:2017.

In a first aspect, the invention relates to an impact absorbing post for collision protection.

In a preferred embodiment the impact absorbing post comprises a base member for mounting the absorbing post on a surface, a primary impact member for absorbing an impact of a collision, connecting members for connecting the primary impact member to the base member and at least one inner impact member.

The base member comprises a bottom plate and a hollow connection profile for connecting the primary impact member to the base member using the connecting members. The base member is preferably made of metal, more preferably steel. The bottom plate is intended to be placed with one side on the surface. The surface is for instance a concrete floor of a warehouse or an asphalt surface of a parking lot. The bottom plate comprises holes for attaching the base member to the surface by using bolts, screws, anchors or other suitable means. The bottom plate comprises at least four holes, preferably at least five holes and more preferably at least six holes. The holes are preferably equally distributed around the centre of the bottom plate. Optionally, the bottom plate comprises an extra hole in the center to avoid plastic deformation of the bottom plate during impact. The connection profile is firmly fixed to the bottom plate. Preferably the connection profile is welded to the bottom plate. The connection profile extends along a longitudinal direction. The connection profile extends substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate. This means that the longitudinal direction of the connection profile is substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate and when installed on a surface substantially perpendicular to the surface. The connection profile is a hollow profile.

The primary impact member is a hollow profile made from a polymer, preferably a polyolefin, such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) and polybutylene (PB), and more preferably polypropylene (PP). The primary impact member extends in a longitudinal direction. The primary impact member extends substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate. This means that the longitudinal direction of the connection profile and the longitudinal direction of the primary impact member are substantially parallel. The connection profile is placed inside the primary impact member. Consequently, the connection profile cannot be impacted directly during a collision. The connection profile is protected by the primary impact member against collision. The primary impact member is connected to the connection profile by use of the connecting members. Non-limiting examples of connecting members are screws, bolts, bolts and nuts, rivets, wedges, ...

The at least one inner impact member is a hollow profile made from a polymer, preferably a polyolefin, such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) and polybutylene (PB), and more preferably polypropylene (PP). The material may be different from or the same as the material from which the primary impact member is made. Preferably the material is the same as the material from which the primary impact member is made. This is beneficial when recycling the impact absorbing post. The at least one inner impact member extends in a longitudinal direction. The at least one inner impact member extends substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate. This means that the longitudinal direction of the connection profile, the longitudinal direction of the primary impact member and the longitudinal direction of the at least one inner impact member are substantially parallel. The at least one inner impact member has a shorter length than the primary impact member. Said length is measured perpendicularly from the bottom plate to an opposing end of the at least one inner impact member, respectively an opposing end of the primary impact member. This means that in the case of multiple inner impact members, every inner impact member has a length shorter than the length of the primary impact member. The at least one inner impact member has a longer length than the connection profile. Said length is measured perpendicularly from the bottom plate to an opposing end of the at least one inner impact member, respectively an opposing end of the primary impact member. This means that in the case of multiple inner impact members, every inner impact member has a length longer than the length of the connection profile. The at least one inner impact member is placed at the bottom plate inside the connection profile. As a result, the connection profile surrounds the at least one inner impact member at the side of the bottom plate and the at least one inner impact member protrudes from the connection profile.

An impact absorbing post according to the current embodiment is advantageous as it can absorb high energy impacts of more than 3 kJ due to the use of a primary impact member and at least one inner impact member. Due to the connecting members, the primary impact member will not slide over the at least one inner impact member, forcing the primary impact member to absorb its part of the impact energy and avoiding that the impact energy is mainly absorbed by the at least one inner impact member, resulting in a failure of the at least one inner impact member. Because the at least one inner impact member has a shorter length than the primary impact member, the primary impact member will deform elastically first and only when the primary impact member is bent sufficiently and touches the at least one inner impact member, the at least one inner impact member will start deforming elastically and absorbing energy. The impact absorbing post becomes gradually stiffer when deforming elastically. The placement of the at least one inner impact member inside the connection profile is especially advantageous to avoid that the connection profile cuts at the inside of the primary impact member, resulting in structural damage to the impact absorbing post and finally in failure of it. While bending, the primary impact member will touch mainly the at least one inner impact member and not or only in a limited way the connection profile.

In a preferred embodiment the impact absorbing post comprises at least one outer impact member. The at least one outer impact member is a hollow profile made from a polymer, preferably a polyolefin, such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) and polybutylene (PB), and more preferably polypropylene (PP). The material may be different from or the same as the material from which the primary impact member and/or the at least one inner impact member are made. Preferably the material is the same as the material from which the primary impact member and the at least one inner impact member are made. This is beneficial when recycling the impact absorbing post. The at least one outer impact member extends in a longitudinal direction. The at least one outer impact member extends substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate. This means that the longitudinal direction of the connection profile, the longitudinal direction of the primary impact member, the longitudinal direction of the at least one inner impact member and the longitudinal direction of the at least one outer impact member are substantially parallel. The at least one outer impact member has a shorter length than the primary impact member. The at least one outer impact member has a longer length than the at least one inner impact member. Said lengths are measured perpendicularly from the bottom plate to respectively an opposing end of the at least one outer impact member, an opposing end of the primary impact member and an opposing end of the at least one inner impact member. This means that in the case of multiple outer impact members, every outer impact member has a length shorter than the length of the primary impact member and that every outer impact member has a length longer than the length of the at least one inner impact member, meaning in the case of multiple inner impact members, that every outer impact member has a length longer than the length of every inner impact member. The at least one outer impact member is placed inside the primary impact member. The at least one outer impact member is placed at the bottom plate outside the connection profile. As a result, the at least one outer impact member surrounds the connection profile at the side of the bottom plate.

This embodiment is especially advantageous when having a very high impact energy of for instance more than 10 kJ. For such an impact, it is necessary to have an impact absorbing post that is strong, but can still deform elastically to absorb the energy of the impact. Simply strengthening the primary impact member would reduce the possibility to deform elastically and the ability to absorb the impact energy, increasing the risk of damage to the primary impact member and failure of the impact absorbing post. The at least one outer impact member is beneficial because the primary impact member can still deform elastically easily and absorb energy due to the shorter length of the at least one outer impact member, but it will not break because it is more quickly supported by the at least one outer impact member than by the at least one inner impact member due the absence of the connection profile between the primary impact member and the at least one outer impact member.

In a further embodiment the at least one outer impact member is a series of subsequent outer impact members. Every subsequent outer impact member is placed inside a previous outer impact member. Every subsequent outer impact member has a shorter length than the previous outer impact member. Said lengths are measured perpendicularly from the bottom plate to an opposing end of the outer impact members. Subsequent outer impact members may, but do not have to have a same thickness. This embodiment has the same advantages as described before. This embodiment is additionally beneficial because the stiffness of the impact absorbing post is increasing towards the bottom plate, causing a elastic deformation of the impact absorbing post that is spread along the length of the impact absorbing post and reduces the elastic deformation near the base member. Because the elastic deformation is spread along the length of the impact absorbing post, the total displacement of the impact absorbing post in the direction of the impact is more limited compared to a situation where the elastic deformation is mainly concentrated in a single zone of the impact absorbing post, increasing the safety behind the impact absorbing post. Changing the thickness of subsequent outer impact members gives more flexibility to spread the elastic deformation of the impact absorbing post along its length. In a preferred embodiment the impact absorbing post comprises an anti-buckling member. The anti-buckling member is a hollow profile made from a polymer, preferably a polyolefin, such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) and polybutylene (PB), and more preferably polypropylene (PP). The material may be different from or the same as the material from which the primary impact member, the at least one inner impact member and/or the at least one outer impact member are made. Preferably the material is the same as the material from which the primary impact member, the at least one inner impact member and when present the at least one outer impact member are made. This is beneficial when recycling the impact absorbing post. The anti-buckling member extends in a longitudinal direction. The anti-buckling member extends substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate. This means that the longitudinal direction of the connection profile, the longitudinal direction of the primary impact member, the longitudinal direction of the at least one inner impact member, the longitudinal direction of the at least one outer impact member when present and the anti-buckling member are substantially parallel. The anti-buckling member has a shorter length than the primary impact member. The anti-buckling member has a longer length than the at least one inner impact member. The anti-buckling member has a longer length than the at least one outer impact member when present. Said lengths are measured perpendicularly from the bottom plate to respectively an opposing end of the anti-buckling member, an opposing end of the primary impact member, an opposing end of the at least one inner impact member and an opposing end of the at least one outer impact member. This means that in the case of multiple inner impact members, every inner impact member has a length shorter than the length of the anti-buckling member and in the case of multiple outer impact members, every outer impact member has a length shorter than the length of the anti-buckling member. The anti-buckling member is placed inside the at least one inner impact member.

This embodiment is especially beneficial when having a long impact absorbing post, where the high energy impact of more than 3 kJ is expected to occur at a relative high level above the surface. This could result in buckling of the impact absorbing post. Simply increasing the height of the at least one inner impact member or the at least one outer impact member when present would make the impact absorbing post stiffer, avoiding the buckling of the impact absorbing post, but it would also reduce the elastic deformation of the impact absorbing post and consequently the absorption of the impact energy. The impact energy will be transferred to a large extent to the base member. This could result in that the base member cracks, the impact absorbing post comes off the surface and/or that the surface is damaged. In any of these cases, the impact absorbing post failed. By adding an anti-buckling member, that is placed inside the at least one inner impact member and has a longer length than the at least one inner impact member and the at least one outer impact member when present, buckling of the impact absorbing post is avoided, while the impact absorbing post can still absorb the high energy of the impact. Because the impact is at a high level, a level above the at least one inner impact member and the at least one outer impact member when present, and because the anti-buckling member is not in contact with the primary impact member, the primary impact member will as before deform elastically and absorb the energy of the impact first. Before the primary impact member bents to much and risks to buckle, the primary impact member touches the anti-buckling member and a part of the impact energy is transferred to the anti-buckling member. With further elastic deformation of the primary impact member, the at least one outer impact member when present and the at least one inner impact member are also getting elastically deformed, and the high energy of the impact at a high level above the surface is successfully absorbed in the whole impact absorbing post.

In a preferred embodiment the at least one inner impact member is a series of subsequent inner impact members. Every subsequent inner impact member is placed inside a previous inner impact member. Every subsequent inner impact member has a shorter length than the previous inner impact member. Said lengths are measured perpendicularly from the bottom plate to an opposing end of the inner impact members. Subsequent inner impact members may, but do not have to have a same thickness. This embodiment has similar advantages as described before for the at least one outer impact member, being a series of subsequent outer impact members. This embodiment has the additional advantage that there is typically more space available inside the connection profile than between the primary impact member and the connection profile, because the primary impact member is preferably placed close to the connection profile to avoid a big translation of the primary impact member when a collision occurs. This allows typically to have more subsequent inner impact members than subsequent outer impact members, resulting in a better spread of the elastic deformation along the impact absorbing post. Changing the thickness of subsequent inner impact members gives more flexibility to spread the elastic deformation of the impact absorbing post along its length.

In an embodiment the connection profile, the primary impact member and the at least one impact member have a same shape for a cross-section, wherein the cross- section is made transverse to the longitudinal direction of respectively the connection profile, the primary impact member and the at least one impact member. The crosssections of said members have each a centre. Said centres are preferably superimposed seen in a direction transverse to the bottom plate. This embodiment is beneficial for transferring impact energy between said members, independent of a direction wherefrom an impact originates, because it is possible to place said member in such way that a distance between one of said members to an adjacent member of said members is along its circumference equal. Preferably the crosssection is circular.

In a further embodiment the connection profile, the primary impact member, the at least one impact member and the anti-buckling member have a same shape for a cross-section, wherein the cross-section is made transverse to the longitudinal direction of respectively the connection profile, the primary impact member, the at least one impact member and the anti-buckling member. This embodiment has the same advantages as described before.

In a preferred embodiment the impact absorbing post comprises a connector for connection of a horizontal rail to the impact absorbing post. The connector is suited for sliding the horizontal rail in or over the connector, for placing the horizontal rail in the connector or another suitable way of connecting the horizontal rail to the connector. The horizontal rail may be firmly attached to the connector, but does not need to. The connector extends substantially perpendicular to the impact absorbing post through the primary impact member. Preferably the primary impact member comprises an opening for allowing the connector to extend through the primary impact member. The connector may be firmly attached to the primary impact member, but does not need to. Preferably the connector is not firmly attached to the primary impact member. The impact absorbing post comprises an anti-buckling member, as described in previous embodiments. The anti-buckling member extends through the connector. The connector preferably comprises an opening for allowing the anti-buckling member to extend through the connector. The connector may be firmly attached to the anti-buckling member, but does not need to. Preferably the connector is not firmly attached to the anti-buckling member. A connector that is not firmly attached to the anti-buckling member and to the primary impact member allows easier elastic deformation of the impact absorbing post. This embodiment is beneficial to provide collision protection between impact absorbing posts. The connector can be loosely attached because it is held in a direction transverse to the bottom plate by the primary impact member and it is held in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction of the anti-buckling member by the anti-buckling member itself.

In a preferred embodiment the connecting members are at least two bolts and nuts. The bolts are traversing from a first side of the impact absorbing post through the impact absorbing post to a second opposing side of the impact absorbing post. A first bolt is substantially perpendicular to a second bolt. This embodiment is beneficial because the bolts are not only connecting the primary impact member, but also the at least one inner impact member and when present the at least one outer impact member and the anti-buckling member. Two substantially perpendicular bolts are advantageous to have a balanced distribution of the energy of the impact over the connecting members, independent of a direction wherefrom an impact originates. The bolts have at least a size M8, preferably at least MIO and even more preferably at least M12. A bigger size is advantageous to avoid that the primary impact member tears around the bolt on impact.

In a preferred embodiment the at least one inner impact member and when present the at least one outer impact member are formed as separate hollow profiles. This means that every inner impact member and when present every outer impact member is a separate profile. Every inner impact member is slidable relative to an adjacent inner impact member and when present every outer impact member is slidable relative to an adjacent outer impact member. This is beneficial for elastic deformation of the impact absorbing post and absorbing the energy of an impact.

In an alternative embodiment the at least one inner impact member and the at least one outer impact member are formed as a single profile with a stepped inside. The single profile has a recess to receive the connection profile. When present, the antibuckling member may or may not be integrated in the single profile. Preferably the anti-buckling member is integrated in the single profile. The single profile is advantageous for easy production and assembly of the impact absorbing post due to the reduced number of steps to assemble the impact absorbing post. However, some flexibility is lost concerning easy adaptation of dimensions of the at least one inner impact member and the at least one outer impact member.

It is clear from the description of this embodiment that when the at least one outer impact member is not present, a similar embodiment wherein the at least one inner impact member is formed as a single profile with a stepped inside is possible. It is also clear that a similar embodiment is possible wherein only the at least one outer impact member is formed as a single profile with a stepped inside. In these two last embodiments it is not required to foresee a recess for receiving the connection profile of the base member. It is also clear that these two last embodiments can be combined.

In an embodiment, the primary impact member, the at least one inner impact member and when present the at least one outer impact member and the antibuckling member are extrusion profiles. This is advantageous for easy manufacturing of said members.

In an embodiment, adjacent impact members from a group formed by the primary impact member and the at least one outer impact member are at a distance of at most 30 mm, preferably at most 20 mm, more preferably at a distance of at most 10 mm, even more preferably at a distance of at most 5 mm and most preferably at a distance of at most 2 mm, wherein the distance is measured as a shortest distance in a direction perpendicular to the impact member. This embodiment is advantageous for a good energy transfer between impact members.

In an embodiment, adjacent impact members from a group formed by the at least one inner impact member and when present the anti-buckling member are at a distance of at most 30 mm, preferably at most 20 mm, more preferably at a distance of at most 10 mm, even more preferably at a distance of at most 5 mm and most preferably at a distance of at most 2 mm, wherein the distance is measured as a shortest distance in a direction perpendicular to the impact member. This embodiment is advantageous for a good energy transfer between impact members.

In an embodiment, adjacent impact members from a group formed by the at least one inner impact member and the at least one outer impact member are at a distance of at most 30 mm, preferably at most 20 mm, more preferably at a distance of at most 10 mm, even more preferably at a distance of at most 5 mm and most preferably at a distance of at most 2 mm, wherein the distance is measured as a shortest distance in a direction perpendicular to the impact member. This embodiment is advantageous for a good energy transfer between impact members.

In an embodiment, adjacent impact members from a group formed by the primary impact member and the at least one inner impact member are at a distance of at most 30 mm, preferably at most 20 mm, more preferably at a distance of at most 10 mm, even more preferably at a distance of at most 5 mm and most preferably at a distance of at most 2 mm, wherein the distance is measured as a shortest distance in a direction perpendicular to the impact member. This embodiment is advantageous for a good energy transfer between impact members.

In an embodiment, the bottom plate of the base member comprises an extra hole for attaching the base member to the surface. The extra hole is placed centrally in the bottom plate. The extra hole is advantageous to avoid plastic deformation of the bottom plate during impact. This embodiment is especially advantageous for bottom plates with big dimensions, for instance a circular bottom plate with a diameter of more than 300 mm or a square bottom plate with a side of 265 mm. This embodiment is especially advantageous for impact absorbing posts that should withstand an expected impact energy of more than 15 kJ.

It is clear for a person of ordinary skill in the art that the previously described embodiments of distances between impact members can be advantageously combined.

In a second aspect, the invention relates to a method for assembling an impact absorbing post for collision protection.

In a preferred embodiment the method comprises the steps of:

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

- attaching the bottom plate to the surface;

- placing a primary impact member on the base member;

- attaching the primary impact member to the base member, using connecting members.

The base member is preferably made of metal, more preferably steel. The bottom plate is intended to be placed with one side on the surface. The bottom plate comprises holes for attaching the base member to the surface by using bolts, screws, anchors or other suitable means. The bottom plate comprises at least four holes, preferably at least five holes and more preferably at least six holes. The holes are preferably equally distributed around the centre of the bottom plate. Optionally, the bottom plate comprises an extra hole in the center to avoid plastic deformation of the bottom plate during impact. The connection profile is firmly fixed to the bottom plate. Preferably the connection profile is welded to the bottom plate. The connection profile extends along a longitudinal direction. The connection profile extends substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate. This means that the longitudinal direction of the connection profile is substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate and substantially perpendicular to the surface. The connection profile is a hollow profile.

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

After placing the primary impact member on the base member, the connection profile is placed inside the primary impact member. Consequently, the connection profile cannot be impacted directly during a collision. The connection profile is protected by the primary impact member against collision.

Non-limiting examples of connecting members are screws, bolts, bolts and nuts, rivets, wedges, ...

The method comprises the additional step of placing at least one inner impact member. The at least one inner impact member is a hollow profile made from a polymer, preferably a polyolefin, such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) and polybutylene (PB), and more preferably polypropylene (PP). The material may be different from or the same as the material from which the primary impact member is made. Preferably the material is the same as the material from which the primary impact member is made. The at least one inner impact member extends in a longitudinal direction. The at least one inner impact member extends substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate. This means that the longitudinal direction of the connection profile, the longitudinal direction of the primary impact member and the longitudinal direction of the at least one inner impact member are substantially parallel. The at least one inner impact member has a shorter length than the primary impact member. Said length is measured perpendicularly from the bottom plate to an opposing end of the at least one inner impact member, respectively an opposing end of the primary impact member. This means that in the case of multiple inner impact members, every inner impact member has a length shorter than the length of the primary impact member. The at least one inner impact member has a longer length than the connection profile. Said length is measured perpendicularly from the bottom plate to an opposing end of the at least one inner impact member, respectively an opposing end of the primary impact member. This means that in the case of multiple inner impact members, every inner impact member has a length longer than the length of the connection profile. The at least one inner impact member is placed at the bottom plate inside the connection profile. As a result, the connection profile surrounds the at least one inner impact member at the side of the bottom plate and the at least one inner impact member protrudes from the connection profile. The at least one inner impact member can be placed before or after placing the primary impact member. Preferably the at least one inner impact member is placed before placing the primary impact member. The at least one inner impact member is preferably placed before attaching the primary impact member to the base member.

This method is very beneficial because it provides an impact absorbing post that can withstand impact with high energy, even higher than 3 kJ, without failure of the impact absorbing post. The primary impact member, the base member nor the at least one inner impact member will be damaged on impact. The impact absorbing post remains firmly fixed to the surface, without damaging the surface. In the eventuality that a member of the impact absorbing post is damaged, the impact absorbing post can be easily dismantled and the damaged part can be simply replaced, this in contrast to an impact absorbing post where a tube is pressed on the base member. The method also allows a flexible assembly of the impact absorbing post depending on the expected impact energy that should be withstood and the level above the surface where the impact can be expected, by simply changing for instance the number of inner impact members and the length of the inner impact members.

In a preferred embodiment the method comprises the additional step of placing at least one outer impact member. The at least one outer impact member is a hollow profile made from a polymer, preferably a polyolefin, such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) and polybutylene (PB), and more preferably polypropylene (PP). The material may be different from or the same as the material from which the primary impact member and/or the at least one inner impact member are made. Preferably the material is the same as the material from which the primary impact member and the at least one inner impact member are made. The at least one outer impact member extends in a longitudinal direction. The at least one outer impact member extends substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate. This means that the longitudinal direction of the connection profile, the longitudinal direction of the primary impact member, the longitudinal direction of the at least one inner impact member and the longitudinal direction of the at least one outer impact member are substantially parallel. The at least one outer impact member has a shorter length than the primary impact member. The at least one outer impact member has a longer length than the at least one inner impact member. Said lengths are measured perpendicularly from the bottom plate to respectively an opposing end of the at least one outer impact member, an opposing end of the primary impact member and an opposing end of the at least one inner impact member. This means that in the case of multiple outer impact members, every outer impact member has a length shorter than the length of the primary impact member and that every outer impact member has a length longer than the length of the at least one inner impact member, meaning in the case of multiple inner impact members, that every outer impact member has a length longer than the length of every inner impact member. The at least one outer impact member is placed inside the primary impact member. The at least one outer impact member is placed at the bottom plate outside the connection profile. As a result, the at least one outer impact member surrounds the connection profile at the side of the bottom plate. The at least one outer impact member can be placed before or after placing the primary impact member and/or the at least one inner impact member. Preferably the at least one outer impact member is placed before placing the primary impact member and after placing the at least one inner impact member. The at least one inner impact member is preferably placed before attaching the primary impact member to the base member.

This embodiment is especially advantageous when having a very high impact energy of for instance more than 10 kJ. For such an impact, it is necessary to provide an impact absorbing post that is strong, but can still deform elastically to absorb the energy of the impact. Simply strengthening the primary object member would reduce the possibility to deform elastically and the ability to absorb the impact energy, increasing the risk of damage to the primary impact member and failure of the impact absorbing post. The at least one outer impact member is beneficial because the primary impact member can still deform elastically easily and absorb energy due to the shorter length of the at least one outer impact member, but it will not break because it is more quickly supported by the at least one outer impact member than by the at least one inner impact member due the absence of the connection profile between the primary impact member and the at least one outer impact member. An additional advantage is that the step can be executed at a later stage, after the assembly of the impact absorbing post was initially finished, when conditions change and the impact absorbing post should be able to withstand a higher impact energy. This allows a flexible assembly of the impact absorbing post.

In a preferred embodiment the method comprises the additional step of placing an anti-buckling member. The anti-buckling member is a hollow profile made from a polymer, preferably a polyolefin, such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) and polybutylene (PB), and more preferably polypropylene (PP). The material may be different from or the same as the material from which the primary impact member, the at least one inner impact member and/or the at least one outer impact member are made. Preferably the material is the same as the material from which the primary impact member, the at least one inner impact member and when present the at least one outer impact member are made. The anti-buckling member extends in a longitudinal direction. The anti-buckling member extends substantially perpendicular to the bottom plate. This means that the longitudinal direction of the connection profile, the longitudinal direction of the primary impact member, the longitudinal direction of the at least one inner impact member, the longitudinal direction of the at least one outer impact member when present and the anti-buckling member are substantially parallel. The anti-buckling member has a shorter length than the primary impact member. The anti-buckling member has a longer length than the at least one inner impact member. The anti-buckling member has a longer length than the at least one outer impact member when present. Said lengths are measured perpendicularly from the bottom plate to respectively an opposing end of the antibuckling member, an opposing end of the primary impact member, an opposing end of the at least one inner impact member and an opposing end of the at least one outer impact member. This means that in the case of multiple inner impact members, every inner impact member has a length shorter than the length of the anti-buckling member and in the case of multiple outer impact members, every outer impact member has a length shorter than the length of the anti-buckling member. The antibuckling member is placed inside the at least one inner impact member.

This embodiment is especially beneficial when assembling a long impact absorbing post, where the high energy impact of more than 3 kJ is expected to occur at a relative high level above the surface. This could result in buckling of the impact absorbing post. Simply increasing the height of the at least one inner impact member or the at least one outer impact member when present would make the impact absorbing post stiffer, avoiding the buckling of the impact absorbing post, but it would also reduce the elastic deformation of the impact absorbing post and consequently the absorption of the impact energy. The impact energy will be transferred to a large extent to the base member. This could result in that the base member cracks, the impact absorbing post comes off the surface and/or that the surface is damaged. In any of these cases, the impact absorbing post failed. By adding an anti-buckling member, that is placed inside the at least one inner impact member and has a longer length than the at least one inner impact member and the at least one outer impact member when present, buckling of the impact absorbing post is avoided, while the impact absorbing post can still absorb the high energy of the impact. Because the impact is at a high level, a level above the at least one inner impact member and above the at least one outer impact member when present, and because the anti-buckling member is not in contact with the primary impact member, the primary impact member will as before deform elastically and absorb the energy of the impact first. Before the primary impact member bents to much and risks to buckle, the primary impact member touches the anti-buckling member and a part of the impact energy is transferred to the anti-buckling member. With further elastic deformation of the primary impact member, the at least one outer impact member when present and the at least one inner impact member are also getting elastically deformed, and the high energy of the impact at a high level above the surface is successfully absorbed in the whole impact absorbing post. An additional advantage is that the step can be executed at a later stage, after the assembly of the impact absorbing post was initially finished, when conditions change and the impact is expected at a higher level above the surface, for instance due to the introduction of another type of forklift trucks in a warehouse. This allows a flexible assembly of the impact absorbing post.

In a further embodiment, the method comprises the additional step of placing a connector for connection of a horizontal rail to the impact absorbing post. The connector is first extended through the primary impact member, whereafter the primary impact member is placed over the anti-buckling member, while extending simultaneously the anti-buckling member through the connector. The primary impact member comprises an opening for allowing the connector to extend through the primary impact member. The connector can be extended through the primary impact member by sliding the connector through the opening in the primary impact member. The connector comprises an opening for allowing the anti-buckling member to extend through the connector. The anti-buckling member can be extended through the primary impact member by sliding the anti-buckling member through the opening in the connector. The connector extends substantially perpendicular to the impact absorbing post through the primary impact member. This embodiment is beneficial to provide collision protection between impact absorbing posts. The connector can be loosely attached because it is held in a direction transverse to the bottom plate by the primary impact member and it is held in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction of the anti-buckling member by the anti-buckling member itself.

A person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that an impact absorbing post according to the first aspect is preferably assembled executing a method according to the second aspect and that a method according to the second aspect is preferably executed for obtaining an impact absorbing post according to the first aspect. Accordingly, any feature described in this document, above as well as below, may relate to any of the three aspects of the present invention.

In a third aspect, the invention relates to a use of an impact absorbing post according to the first aspect and/or a method according to the second aspect for collision protection resilient to an impact of at least 12 kJ.

The use as described herein provides an advantageous effect that a collision protection can be provided that is resilient to an impact of at least 12 kJ, that can be easily repaired in the eventuality of damage and that can be adapted in a flexible way depending on the expected impact energy and the level above the surface where the impact can be expected.

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

DESCRI PTI ON OF Fl GURES

Figure 1 A shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 1 B shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 1A.

The impact absorbing post (1) comprises a primary impact member (2), a base member (3), a first outer impact member (7), a first inner impact member (9), a second inner impact member (10) and connecting members (8). The base member (3) comprises a circular bottom plate (4) and a connection profile (6). The bottom plate (4) is to be placed on a surface, for instance a concrete surface. The bottom plate (4) comprises holes (5) for attaching the base member (3) to the surface. The connection profile (6) is a hollow cylindrical profile. The connection profile (6) is firmly attached to the bottom plate (4). The connection profile (6) is used for connecting the primary impact member (2) to the base member (3). The primary impact member (2), the first outer impact member (7), the first inner impact member (9) and the second inner impact member (10) are hollow cylindrical profiles. Remark that the primary impact member (2), the first outer impact member (7), the first inner impact member (9) and the second inner impact member (10) do not all have the same thickness. The first outer impact member (7) is placed inside the primary impact member (2) and at the bottom plate (4) outside the connection profile (6). The first outer impact member (7) has a shorter length than the primary impact member (2). The first inner impact member (9) is at the bottom plate (4) placed inside the connection profile (6). The second inner impact member (10) is placed inside the first inner impact member (9). The first inner impact member (9) has a shorter length than the primary impact member (2) and the first outer impact member (7). The second inner impact member (10) has a shorter length than the first inner impact member (9). The first inner impact member (9) and the second inner impact member (10) have a longer length than the connection profile (6). The first inner impact member (9) and the second inner impact member (10) are a series of subsequent inner impact members, wherein every subsequent inner impact member is placed inside a previous inner impact member and wherein every subsequent inner impact member has a shorter length than the previous inner impact member. The connecting members (8) are two bolts and nuts traversing from a first side of the impact absorbing post (1) through the primary impact member (2), the first outer impact member (7), the first inner impact member (9), the second inner impact member (10) and connection profile (6) of the base member (3). The two bolts are substantially perpendicular to each other. The primary impact member (2) has an outer diameter of 200 mm and a length of 1160 mm. The first outer impact member (7) has an outer diameter of 174 mm and a length of 480 mm. The connection profile (6) has an outer diameter of 159 mm and a length of 160 mm. The first inner impact member (9) has an outer diameter of 142 mm and a length of 380 mm. The second inner impact member (10) has an outer diameter of 125 mm and a length of 280 mm. The impact absorbing post (1) is suited for absorbing impacts with an energy of at least 14 kJ up to a level of at least 480 mm above the surface.

Figure 2A shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post, similar to the impact absorbing post of Figure 1A, but with additional elements.

Figure 2B shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 2A. The bottom plate (4) of the base member (3) is attached to the surface with the use of screws (12) through the holes (5). The base member (3) is protected by a base protection (14). The primary impact member (2) is closed at an end, opposing the base member (3) by a cover (13).

Figure 3A shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post, similar to the impact absorbing post of Figure 2A, but with an outer impact member and two inner impact members with a different length compared to Figure 2A.

Figure 3B shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 3A.

The first outer impact member (7) has a length of 400 mm. The first inner impact member (9) has a length of 300 mm. The second inner impact member (10) has a length of 200 mm. The impact absorbing post (1) is suited for absorbing impacts with an energy of at least 14 kJ up to a level of at least 400 mm above the surface.

Figure 4A shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post, similar to the impact absorbing post of Figure 2A, but with only one inner impact member and with an anti-buckling member.

Figure 4B shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 4A.

The anti-buckling member (15) is a hollow cylindrical profile. The anti-buckling member (15) is placed inside the first inner impact member (9). The anti-buckling member (15) has a shorter length than the primary impact member (2) and a longer length than the first outer impact member (7) and the first inner impact member (9). The anti-buckling member (10) has an outer diameter of 125 mm and a length of 700 mm. The impact absorbing post (1) is suited for absorbing impacts with an energy of at least 14 kJ up to a level of at least 700 mm above the surface.

Figure 5 shows a sectional view of an impact absorbing post similar to the impact absorbing post of Figure 4A while absorbing an impact at a high level above the surface.

The impact absorbing post (1) is hit by a test object (16) at a level of 600 mm above the surface. The test object (16) collides horizontally with the impact absorbing post (1) with an impact energy of at least 10 kJ. The primary impact member (2) starts to buckle at the level of impact. However, buckling is avoided because the primary impact member (2) touches the anti-buckling member (15), transferring a part of the impact energy to the anti-buckling member (15). Only increasing the height of the first outer impact member (7), the first inner impact member (9) and the second inner impact member (10) of the impact absorbing post (1) of Figure 2A would result in a stiffer impact absorbing post (1) that cannot deform elastically as much and would absorb less impact energy, leading to failure of the impact absorbing post (1). Clearly visible as well on Figure 5 is that due to the presence of the first inner impact member (9) the primary impact member (2) and the first outer impact member (7) are not cut by the connection profile (6) while deforming elastically.

Figure 6A shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post, similar to the impact absorbing post of Figure 2A, but without an outer impact member.

Figure 6 B shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 6A.

The impact absorbing post (1) is suited for absorbing impacts with an energy of at least 12 kJ up to a level of at least 380 mm above the surface.

Figure 7A shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post, similar to the impact absorbing post of Figure 2A, but with only one inner impact member, more precisely the longest inner impact member.

Figure 7 B shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 7A.

The impact absorbing post (1) is suited for absorbing impacts with an energy of at least 12 kJ up to a level of at least 480 mm above the surface.

Figure 8A shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post, similar to the impact absorbing post of Figure 7A, but without an outer impact member.

Figure 8 B shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 8A.

The impact absorbing post (1) is suited for absorbing impacts with an energy of at least 10 kJ up to a level of at least 380 mm above the surface.

Figure 9A shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post, similar to the impact absorbing post of Figure 2A, but with only one inner impact member, more precisely the shortest inner impact member.

Figure 9 B shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 9A.

The impact absorbing post (1) is suited for absorbing impacts with an energy of at least 12 kJ up to a level of at least 480 mm above the surface. Figure 1 0A shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post, similar to the impact absorbing post of Figure 9A, but without an outer impact member. Figure 1 OB shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 10A.

The impact absorbing post (1) is suited for absorbing impacts with an energy of at least 10 kJ up to a level of at least 280 mm above the surface.

Figure 1 1 A shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post, similar to the impact absorbing post of Figure 4A, but without an outer impact member and only one inner impact member with a length equal to the length of the anti-buckling member of the impact absorbing post of Figure 4A.

Figure 1 1 B shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 11A.

The impact absorbing post (1) is suited for absorbing impacts with an energy of at least 10 kJ up to a level of at least 700 mm above the surface.

Figure 1 2A shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post, similar to the impact absorbing post of Figure 2A, but with an outer impact member and two inner impact members with a different length compared to Figure 2A and with one additional inner impact member.

Figure 1 2B shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 12A.

The third inner impact member (11) is placed inside the second inner impact member (10). The third inner impact member (11) has a shorter length than the second impact member (10). The third inner impact member (11) has a longer length than the connection profile (6). The first inner impact member (9), the second inner impact member (10) and the third inner impact member (11) are a series of subsequent inner impact members, wherein every subsequent inner impact member is placed inside a previous inner impact member and wherein every subsequent inner impact member has a shorter length than the previous inner impact member. The first outer impact member (7) has a length of 550 mm. The first inner impact member (9) has a length of 450 mm. The second inner impact member (10) has a length of 350 mm. The third inner impact member (11) has an outer diameter of 104 mm and a length of 250 mm. The impact absorbing post (1) is suited for absorbing impacts with an energy of at least 16 kJ up to a level of at least 550 mm above the surface. Figure 1 3A shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post with an outer impact member, inner impact members and an anti-buckling member that is formed as a single profile.

Figure 1 3B shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 13A.

The first outer impact member (7), the first inner impact member (9), the second inner impact member (10) and the anti-buckling member (15) are formed as a single profile (17). The single profile (17) has a stepped inside (19). The single profile (17) has a recess (18) to receive the connection profile (6) of the base member (3). The first outer impact member (7) has an outer diameter of 174 mm and a length of 480 mm. The first inner impact member (9) has an outer diameter of 142 mm and a length of 340 mm. The second inner impact member (10) has an outer diameter of 125 mm and a length of 250 mm. The anti-buckling member (15) has an outer diameter of 105 mm and a length of 700 mm. The impact absorbing post (1) is suited for absorbing impacts with an energy of at least 16 kJ up to a level of at least 700 mm above the surface.

Figure 1 4A shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post with a primary impact member with a shorter length and a smaller diameter compared to the impact absorbing post of Figure 2A, with no outer impact members and only one inner impact member.

Figure 1 4B shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 14A.

The primary impact member (2) has an outer diameter of 125 mm and a length of 750 mm. The connection profile (6) has an outer diameter of 101,5 mm and a length of 125 mm. The first inner impact member (9) has an outer diameter of 88 mm and a length of 300 mm. The impact absorbing post (1) is suited for absorbing impacts with an energy of at least 3 kJ up to a level of at least 300 mm above the surface.

Figure 1 5A shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post, similar to the impact absorbing post of Figure 14A, but with an inner impact member with a longer length compared to the impact absorbing post of Figure 14A.

Figure 1 5B shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 15A.

The first inner impact member (9) has a length of 500 mm. The impact absorbing post (1) is suited for absorbing impacts with an energy of at least 3 kJ up to a level of at least 500 mm above the surface. Figure 1 6A shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post, similar to the impact absorbing post of Figure 14A, but with an additional inner impact member.

Figure 1 6B shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 16A.

The second inner impact member (10) has an outer diameter of 66 mm and a length of 200 mm. The impact absorbing post (1) is suited for absorbing impacts with an energy of at least 5 kJ up to a level of at least 300 mm above the surface.

Figure 1 7 A shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post, similar to the impact absorbing post of Figure 16A, but with inner impact members with a different length compared to the impact absorbing post of Figure 16A.

Figure 1 7B shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 17A.

The first inner impact member (9) has a length of 350 mm. The second inner impact member (10) has a length of 250 mm. The impact absorbing post (1) is suited for absorbing impacts with an energy of at least 5 kJ up to a level of at least 350 mm above the surface.

Figure 1 8A shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post, similar to the impact absorbing post of Figure 14A, but with an inner impact member with a shorter length compared to the impact absorbing post of Figure 14A and with an anti-buckling member.

Figure 1 8B shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 18A.

The first inner impact member (9) has a length of 250 mm. The anti-buckling member (15) has an outer diameter of 66 mm and a length of 500 mm. The impact absorbing post (1) is suited for absorbing impacts with an energy of at least 5 kJ up to a level of at least 500 mm above the surface.

Figure 1 9A shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post according to an embodiment of the invention, wherein the impact absorbing post comprises a connector for connection of a horizontal rail to the impact absorbing post.

Figure 1 9B shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 19A.

The connector (20) is suited for connection of a horizontal rail to the impact absorbing post (1). The connector (20) extends substantially perpendicular to the impact absorbing post (1) through the primary impact member (2). The primary impact member (2) comprises an opening for allowing the connector (20) to extend through the primary impact member (2). The impact absorbing post (1) comprises an anti-buckling member (15). The anti-buckling member (15) is a beam-shaped hollow profile. The anti-buckling member (15) extends through the connector (20). The connector (20) comprises an opening for allowing the anti-buckling member (15) to extend through the connector (20). The connector (20) is held in a direction transverse to the bottom plate (4) by the primary impact member (2) and is held in a direction transverse to a longitudinal direction of the anti-buckling member (15) by the anti-buckling member (15) itself.

Figure 20A shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post, similar to the impact absorbing post of Figure 19A, but with additional elements.

Figure 20B shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 20A.

The primary impact member (2) is closed at an end, opposing the base member (3) by a cover (13).

Figure 21 A shows a sectional perspective view of an impact absorbing post, similar to the impact absorbing post of Figure 4A but with a primary impact member and an anti-buckling member with a bigger diameter, and a first outer impact member and a first inner impact member with a bigger diameter and a shorter length.

Figure 21 B shows a sectional view of the impact absorbing post of Figure 21A.

The anti-buckling member (15) is a hollow cylindrical profile. The anti-buckling member (15) is placed inside the first inner impact member (9). The anti-buckling member (15) has a shorter length than the primary impact member (2) and a longer length than the first outer impact member (7) and the first inner impact member (9). The primary impact member (2) has an outer diameter of 250 mm and a length of 1160 mm. The first outer impact member (7) has an outer diameter of 225 mm and a length of 350 mm. The connection profile (6) has an outer diameter of 194 mm and a length of 167 mm. The first inner impact member (9) has an outer diameter of 176 mm and a length of 301 mm. The anti-buckling member (10) has an outer diameter of 142 mm and a length of 700 mm. As the bottom plate (4) is getting big, the bottom plate (4) is attached in this embodiment to the surface with an extra screw (12) through an extra hole (5) centrally in the bottom plate to avoid plastic deformation of the bottom plate during impact. The impact absorbing post (1) is suited for absorbing impacts with an energy of at least 20 kJ up to a level of at least 650 mm above the surface.

The elements in the figures are:

1. Impact absorbing post

2. Primary impact member

3. Base member

4. Bottom plate

5. Hole

6. Connection profile

7. First outer impact member

8. Connecting members

9. First inner impact member

10. Second inner impact member

11. Third inner impact member

12. Screw

13. Cover

14. Base protection

15. Anti-buckling member

16. Test object

17. Single profile

18. Recess

19. Stepped inside

20. Connector