Patent Publication Number: US-9404230-B2

Title: Modular top shield for support column

Description:
This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/065,248 filed Oct. 17, 2014. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The invention relates to a modular top cover or shield for covering the top end of a support structure. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Corrosion of reinforcing bars and pre-stressed tendons is one of the most significant and unremitting factors related to the deterioration of bridges. Of approximately 500,000 bridges in the United States, about 80,000 of these are rated structurally deficient. Corrosion of bridge components is the underlying cause of many of the deficiency ratings, with many additional bridges showing early signs of imminently serious corrosion. In combination with water and oxygen, the main cause of corrosion is the chemical reaction of chloride ions originating from: (1) de-icing salts applied to roadways in regions where snow accumulation may be significant; or (2) saltwater that is commonly present in settings adjacent to marine environments. Chloride ions that penetrate concrete can react with underlying steel reinforcement. This reaction can expand the reinforcement and cause the overlying concrete to crack, spalling, and de-bond. This degradation may be further accelerated by vibration from traffic. The shield of the present invention is aimed at deterring the corrosive action of roadway solutions on the vertical surfaces—i.e. the splash zone. An additional threat to bridge infrastructure includes corrosion and deterioration of components within the pier cap area, which occurs below the road deck and at the top of the supporting column. 
     The pier cap area houses a bearing assembly. Bearing assemblies vary in their sizes and designs but typically consist of: (1) a pedestal that is anchored to the top of the pier cap; and (2) an overlying bearing that supports the underside of the road deck while accommodating limited structural movement. The bearing assembly and overall pier cap area is susceptible to corrosion and deterioration that mainly results from solutions entering the area from the above roadway. (An example of this is a salt solution that may bypass expansion joints within an overlying road deck.) 
     Typically, the pedestal is anchored to the top of the pier cap. As a result of the wicking effect from the roadway above, at the point of attachment, road solution may penetrate the concrete. This penetration propagates downward fracturing the concrete. Over time, the concrete is slowly eaten away thereby removing the static compressive surface that supports the bridge. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     An object of the present invention is to provide a top shield that deters the corrosion and deterioration of components within the pier cap area. To further the goal, it is an object to eliminate any road solution (liquid or debris) from ever contacting the main body of the bearing along with the top of the pier cap. 
     A gasket is provided which may consist of a blade of flexible material that fits snugly around the vertical sidewall of the bearing or undersurface of the beam without the use of an adhesive, although this is not a limitation. In one example, the flexible material is applied under slight compression to keep solutions from infiltrating the bearing assembly while allowing for mobility (e.g., thermal expansion and contraction) of the bearing. 
     The top shield may also be used in conjunction with a gasket assembly, which includes the aforementioned gasket. The top shield further diverts solution away from the bearing assembly and pier cap. The top shield consists of a clam-shell design that allows for quick removal and convenient inspection of the pier cap area. In cases where the height of a bearing assembly is very large, a beam bracket may be required for assembly. Those having ordinary skill in the art recognize that pier caps and bearing assemblies exist in different configurations, and therefore the design of the top shield may be altered to fit a respective pier caps and bearing assemblies while still encompassing the spirit of the invention. Further, although the invention is described herein with reference to the following figures, top shields and gasket assemblies may be designed without departing from the spirit of the invention according to the application of the top shield and gasket assembly combination. The top surfaces of the top shield of the present invention are also angled to shed liquid and debris away from the center of the shield. 
     In an embodiment, the top shield is substantially round, which consists of semicircular segments, although this is not a limitation or a requirement. The assembled shield includes a central opening that accommodates the bearing and surrounding gasket assembly. Radial aligned grooves direct solution away from the central area of the shield and downward toward sets of concentric channels. These channels allow for solution to flow toward the outer margins and then off the shield. A semicircular shaped connector is compressed and frictionally fit into indentations within the two segments of the shield. This connector provides: (1) a mechanical linkage between the two segments of the shield; and (2) a means of anchoring the gasket and umbrella shield assemblies to the top of support structures. 
     Another embodiment provides an umbrella shield that has a square or rectangular profile. This umbrella of this embodiment includes: (1) a central opening that accommodates the bearing and surrounding gasket assembly; (2) four faces that slope away from the center of the shield; and (3) supports that rest on the upper surface of the pier cap. The shield segments of may be connected by securing raised anchors with wraps or cable ties. 
     One embodiment provides ridges on left and right sides of the shield that diverts solution toward the front and rear of the shield, thus inhibiting flow towards laterally-adjacent sections of a supporting beam. The left and right ridges also allow for the inclusion of an assembly bracket that may be fastened with rivet or bolts or some other type of mechanical attachment. 
     Another embodiment of the shield includes a channel or rain gutter type element around the periphery of the shield that allows for relatively even dispersion of solution away from the shield. Further, in an embodiment, the outer margins of the shield extend beyond the diameter of an outer cover of a support column, which allows solutions diverted by the shield assembly to fall below (e.g., directly to the ground) without contacting the support column or an outer shield of the support column, if covered. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of three top shields each covering a support column according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view of shield segments connected to form a shield according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view of a segment of the top shield shown in  FIG. 1  according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 4  is a bottom view of the top shield shown in  FIG. 1  according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 5  is a top view of three top shields corresponding to the top shields of  FIG. 1  each covering a support column according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 6  is a cross sectional view of the top shield along the line  6 - 6  of  FIG. 5 . 
         FIG. 7  is a cross sectional view of the top shield along the  7 - 7  line of  FIG. 5 . 
         FIG. 8  is a detailed view of the encircled area of  FIG. 7  showing a joining member of each segment when the segments are assembled. 
         FIG. 9  is a perspective view of a top shield according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 10  is a bottom view of the top shield shown in  FIG. 9  according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 11  is a perspective view of a segment of the top shield shown in  FIG. 9  according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective view of the top shield according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 13  is a detailed view of the encircled region of  FIG. 12  showing the bumps, passage, and outer annular channel according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 14  is a collar used to connect top shield segments according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 15  is a bottom view of a segment of the top shield shown in  FIG. 12  according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 16  is a perspective view of the top shield of  FIG. 12  using a beam support collar according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 17  is a perspective view of the top shield of  FIG. 12  using a beam support collar according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 18  is a perspective view of a beam support collar used to connect shield segments and suspend the shield from a structure according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 19  is a perspective view of the gasket assembly assembled around a bearing block of a support column according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 20  is a perspective view of a gasket assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 21  is a perspective view of a gasket according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 22  is a top view of a gasket assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 23  is a cross sectional view taken along the line  23 - 23  of  FIG. 22 . 
         FIG. 24  is a perspective view of shield segments connected to form a shield on top of a support column and around a bearing block according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 25  is a top view of a shield according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 26  is a perspective view of two shield segments, a collar, and a bracket assembly used to connect two cover segments according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 27  is a top view of a shield segment according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 28  is a bottom view of a shield segment according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 29  is a top view of a shield segment showing bearing block notches according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 30  is a partial cross sectional view along the line  132  of  FIG. 29 . 
         FIG. 31  is a detailed view of the encircled area of  FIG. 30  showing the angled surfaces of the shield segment according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 32  is detailed perspective view of a shield segment according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 33  is a perspective view of a bracket assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 34  is a perspective view of a collar according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 35  is a cross sectional view along the line  134 - 134  of  FIG. 25 . 
         FIG. 36  is a detailed view of the encircled area of  FIG. 35  showing the angled surface of the collar channel according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 37  is a cross sectional view of two shield segments stacked on one another, which shows the stacking and nesting elements of the shield segments. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part of the disclosure, and in which are shown by way of illustration, and not of limitation, exemplary embodiments by which the invention may be practiced. In the drawings, like numerals describe substantially similar components throughout the several views. Further, it should be noted that while the detailed description provides various exemplary embodiments, as described below and as illustrated in the drawings, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described and illustrated herein, but can extend to other embodiments, as would be known or as would become known to those skilled in the art. Reference in the specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “this embodiment,” or “these embodiments” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the invention, and the appearances of these phrases in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Additionally, in the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that these specific details may not all be needed to practice the present invention. In other circumstances, well-known structures, materials, have not been described in detail, and/or may be illustrated in block diagram form, so as to not unnecessarily obscure the present invention. 
     Although the examples of the uses of the modular shield refer to covering support structures, which are column supports for a bridge or an overpass, the invention is not limited to that use. The shield may be adapted and modified to fit around structures of many shapes and sizes. Additionally, the shield segments of the modular shield may be injection molded, by standard plastic manufacturing process methods &amp; materials, such as thermoforming, blow molding, compression, rotomold, and forms of injection molded processes. The shield segments are preferably made of high density polyethylene. The shield segments may be structured according to the shape of the support structure to be covered, e.g., a column of circular cross section or column of quadrilateral cross section. The present invention is not limited to any of the mold process listed above. 
     It should be further understood by those skilled in the art that although the foregoing description has been made on embodiments of the invention, the invention is not limited thereto and various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit of the invention and the scope of the appended claims. 
     The present invention relates to a top cover or shield that placed on the top end of a support column to protect the top surfaces of the column and shed water and debris away from the column itself. Although not a limitation or a requirement, the shield is typically made of polyethylene thermoform, is lightweight, UV protective and may be formed in different colors and different textures to blend in with its environment when installed. In addition, the top shield may be made of a clam shell design, which allows for ease of installation and removal. 
     Support columns may be of a substantially circular or quadrilateral profile or may be of a shape having many sides. The shield, although shown to be substantially square or rounded may be configured to protect the support column and other structural features no matter the profile shape. Throughout the description the radial direction may be used to describe elements of the shield segments  112  even though the shield segments  112  are not in the shape of complete circles. Rather the segments may be semi-circular in shape. 
       FIG. 1  is a perspective view of three top shields each covering a support column according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 1  shows a typical structural arrangement including three support columns  1 , which are exemplary support columns  1  of those used to support a bridge or overpass used by vehicles, for example. In  FIG. 1 , there is a horizontal member  3  connecting each of the support columns  1  which is part of the structure of the bridge. Throughout the disclosure, the support columns  1 , horizontal member  3 , and other parts of the support structure are described as being made of concrete or having an outer layer of concrete. However, the shield  10  of the present invention may be applied to support structures composed of materials other than concrete. The top of the support column  1  is shown to include a bearing block  4  and the shield segments  12  may be formed in a corresponding shape.  FIG. 1  shows a bearing block  4  supporting an I-beam  2 . As is apparent in the figures, in some embodiments the outline shape of the shield  10  may be quadrilateral, in other cases the shape may be round. The shield  10  may be formed to correspond to many shapes or structures of the bearing block  4  and is not limited to what is shown. When the shield segments  12  are assembled to form a shield  10 , the shield has an open center  26 . In addition, although not a limitation or requirement, the support columns  1  shown in at least  FIG. 1  each have a column support cover  15 , which is a protective layer around the outside of column surface shielding the outer surface (e.g., concrete) of the support column  1  from liquid and/or debris. An exemplary column support cover  15  is shown in commonly owned and presently pending U.S. application Ser. No. 14/143,974. 
       FIG. 2  is a perspective view of shield segments connected to form a shield according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown the shield  10  is arranged on top of the support column  1  and horizontal member  3 . As will become apparent in the following figures and descriptions, the shield  10  may be composed of two shield segments  12  joined together at a seam  13 . Throughout the following description, the shield  10  is described as being in two segments  12 , which are joined/connected together to form the shield  10 . However, the shield  10  may formed of more than two segments  12  without departing from the spirit of the invention. Forming the shield in two segments  12  allows for ease of installation (assembly) and removal (disassembly). The segment design also allows for repairs to the structure (e.g., support column, bearing block etc.) to be conducted easily since only a segment of the shield needs to be removed to uncover an area that needs to be repaired or further inspected. 
     The edges along the seam  13  engage each other in a tongue and groove arrangement  35 , although the structure of the parts of the shield segments  12  that engage each other are not limited to the tongue and groove structure  35 . The shield segments  12  are held in the engaged arrangement to form a shield using fasteners around joining members  16 . The flexible fasteners allow a person to easily install and remove the shield as necessary as compared to a permanent fastener. 
     As mentioned above, it is an object of the present invention to provide a shield  10  that prevents liquid (e.g., rain water, solution) and other particulate (e.g., debris) from falling onto the surface of the support column  1  or the bearing block  4 . In particular, the structure of the shield  10  is formed such that liquid and debris that falls onto the shield is directed away from the center of the shield. Further, the liquid and debris is guided away from two sides (of four) of the shield. Instead the liquid and debris is guided off the other of the two sides (not having a vertical extending lip  17 ). 
     In  FIG. 2 , the shield composed of two shield segments and has four outer edges  18 . In  FIG. 2 , the two outer edges  18  having the vertical extending lip  17  are opposite to each other and the outer edges  18  that do not have the vertical lip  17  are opposite to each other. The shield  10  is pitched (i.e., sloped, graded, or drafted) to bias liquid or debris away from the center and allow the liquid or debris to fall away using gravity along the outer edges  18  not having the vertical extending lip  17 . In other words, the two outer edges  18  that do not have vertical extending lips  17  allow liquid and debris to run off the edge (to the ground surface below). One purpose of having two outer edges  18  that include the vertical extending lips  17  is to prevent liquid or debris from falling onto the horizontal member  3 . As mentioned above, liquid or debris falling onto the horizontal member  3  can degrade the material of the horizontal member  3 . In some embodiments, the top surface of the shield segments  12  are drafted away from the seam  13  to direct liquid and debris away from the edges of the segments  12  constituting the tongue and groove connections  35 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 2 , the outer edges  18  have a thickness extending in the vertical direction (i.e. toward the ground). The thickness is shown as a face along the outer edge  18  in  FIGS. 2 and 4  in the outer edges  18  not having the upward extending vertical lip  17 . This face prevents liquid from curling back under the outer edge  18  and dripping below. Rather, the liquid falls off the outer edge  18  without curling under. In the alternative, edges  18  may not have a thickness so as to prevent liquid from curling back under the outer edge  18  and dripping below. Rather, the edges  18  may also include a downward extending vertical edge. 
     Further, the outer edges  18  are stepped down from the top surface of the shield  10  and extend outward, as mentioned above. As a result of outer edge  18  being stepped down from the top surface of the shield, a vertical face  24  is provided. The vertical extending lip  17  also forms a channel for liquid or debris to guide liquid or debris around the corners to the outer edges  18  not having the vertical lip  17 . One vertical boundary of the channel is the vertical face of the shield segment  24 . Another vertical boundary of the channel formed is the inner facing surface of the vertical extending lip  17 . The channel is also formed by outer edge  18 . 
     Channels  14  are formed as grooves in the top surface of the shield segments  12  and as grooves in the face  24  of the shield segments. The channels  14  along with the slope of the shield segments  12  guide liquid and debris away and off of the top surface of the shield  10  onto the outer edges  18 . In addition, the channels  14  provide structure to the shield segments. The channels  14  also provide for structure during the molding process of the shield segments  12 . 
     A rounded corner vertical extending lip  30  is also provided which guides liquid/debris so that the liquid/debris in the channel (formed by the inner facing surface of the vertical extending lip  17  and vertical face of shield segment  24 ) is further prevented from falling off the shield  10  until the rounded corner vertical lip  30  tapers off to the adjacent outer edge  18 , as shown. The vertical component (height) of the rounded corner vertical lip  30  tapers to be flat with the outer edge  18  on one side, while the vertical component on the other side of the corner  30  is the same height as the vertical lip  17 . Alternatively, the rounded corner vertical lip  30  may be not be tapered at one end to be flush with the outer edge  18 , rather the rounded corner vertical lip  30  may have a straight edge (at a 90 degree angle or other angle) joining the adjacent outer edge  18 . 
     Although better shown in  FIGS. 6 and 7 , the outer edges  18  extend outward (horizontally) further than the outer surface of a cover  15  being used to shield the support column  1 . As a result, the falling liquid/debris do not contact the outer surface of the cover  15 . Of course, if a cover  15  is not used, then the outer edges  18  necessarily extend further than the outer surface of the support column  1 . In some embodiments, only the outer edges  18  not having the vertical extending lip  17  extend further than the outer surface of the cover  15  from the center of the support column  1  in the radial direction. 
       FIG. 3  is a perspective view of a segment  12  of the top shield shown in  FIG. 1  according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 3  shows a shield segment  12  together with a gasket assembly  20 . The gasket assemblies  20  are formed on top of the outer surface of the shield segment  12 . The gaskets  88  of the gasket assembly  20  make contact with the bearing block  4  surface (or other structure between the support column and road surface) to prevent liquid and debris from passing through the contact portion of the gasket  20  and the outer surface of the bearing block  4 . 
       FIG. 3  additionally shows the tongue and groove connector portions of each shield segment. A tongue edge  37  and a groove edge  36  is shown. The tongue and groove engagement will be described below with respect to  FIG. 8 . Support members  22  are shown to extend downward from the bottom surface of the shield segment  12 . As discussed in more detail below, the support members are inserted into pockets  23  formed into the shield segment  12 . In addition,  FIG. 3  shows the joining member  16  provided on each side of the segment along the tongue and groove connector  35  edges of the segment  12 . Further,  FIG. 3  shows that rounded corner vertical lip  30  extends from the side having the vertical edge  17  to the adjacent side (outer edge  18 ) not having the vertical edge  17 . 
       FIG. 4  is a bottom view of the top shield shown in  FIG. 1  according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 4  shows the support members  22 , which extend downward from the bottom surface of each shield segment  12 . The support members  22  support the shield  10  and contact the top surface of the support column  3 . The support members  22  may be of a desirable length (e.g., 2 inches) and of desirable shape (e.g., circular cross section or quadrilateral cross section) depending on the position of the bearing block  4  on the support column  1  or the structural features of the top surface of the support column  1 . For example, if the top of the support column is not flat and has stepped sections, some support members  22  may be of different lengths so each support member  22  contacts the bearing block  4  or other structure. The pockets  23  may be formed in a shape corresponding to the support members  22  and to accept an end of the support member  22 . The support members  22  may be molded into each shield segment  12  or they may be separately manufactured and fitted into pockets  23  formed into the shield segment  12 . In such a case, the support members  22  fit in and engage the pockets  23  in a compression fitting. The support members  22  may also be made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or other type of plastic.  FIG. 4  shows four support members  22  on each shield segment  12 , but of course more or less than four could be provided. It is also noted that  FIG. 4  shows the channels  14  as grooves in the top surface of each shield segment  12 . 
     The support members  22  raise the shield and provide an air gap between the shield  10  and the top of the support column  3 . Other shields may sit directly on top or of the support column or other supporting structures or slightly above the top of the support column or other supporting structures and therefore do not provide for an air gap substantial enough for inspection or for permitting air flow. The air gap provided by support members  22  allow for air to flow between the shield  10  and top of the support column  10 . In addition, the air gap allows a person to inspect the top of the support column  1 , bearing block  4  and other structural components as well as the shield  10  without needing to remove or dissemble the shield. Accordingly, the shield of the present invention allows for an inspector to easily inspect the support column and other structural components. This is an object of the present invention. 
       FIG. 5  is a top view of three top shields each covering a support column, which are connected by a horizontal member according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 6  is a cross sectional view taken along the line  6 - 6  of  FIG. 5 .  FIG. 6  shows the support members  22  contacting the top of the support column  3 . 
     The cross section illustrated in  FIG. 6  shows the outer edge  18 , which does not have a vertical lip  17 . As mentioned above, the outer edge  18  is substantially flat and extends horizontally.  FIG. 6  additionally shows the tapered edge of the rounded corner vertical lip  30 .  FIG. 6  also shows that the top surface of the shield  10  is inclined or sloped with the edges around the open center higher than the outer edges  18  in the vertical direction. As mentioned above, the liquid or debris is channeled along a channel formed by the outer edge  18 , vertical lip  17 , vertical face of shield segment  24  and rounded corner vertical lip  30  to an outer edge  18  that does not have a vertical lip  17 . In other words, the graded or sloped structure of the shield  10  along with the structural features described above (e.g., outer edge  18 , vertical lip  17 , channels  14 , and rounded corner vertical lip  30 ) guides liquid and debris by force of gravity. 
       FIG. 7  is a cross sectional view of the support column having the top shield taken along the line  7 - 7  of  FIG. 5 .  FIG. 7  shows the joining member  16 , which will be described in more detail below. The dashed lines of  FIG. 7  show that the outer edge  18  extends beyond the outer surface of the cover  15  of the support column  1 . As a result, liquid or debris falling off outer edge  18  is guided away from the cover so the liquid or debris does not fall onto the surface of the cover  15 . The shield although shown to be square and symmetric in drawings does not need to be. For example, the sides running along the horizontal member  3  may be longer or shorter than sides opposite. 
       FIG. 8  is a detailed view of the encircled area of  FIG. 7  showing a joining member  16  of each segment  12  when the segments  12  are assembled to form a shield  10 . Note that the view of  FIG. 8  shows the bearing block  4  to provide clarity.  FIG. 8  shows the joining member  16  of each segment in more detail. As noted above, the shield  10  is formed by joining two shield segments  12  together on top of the support column  1  and around structure elements of the support column (e.g., the bearing block  4 ). Each shield segment  12  has two protrusions  38 , which make up the joining member  16  (see  FIG. 2 ), formed as protruding from the top surface of the shield segment  12 . The protrusions  38  are formed to engage with a flexible fastener  39 , which may be a zip-type tie. The flexible fastener  39  is placed around each protrusion  38  and fastened to maintain the engagement of the tongue and groove connection  35 . The flexible fastener  39  and tongue and groove connection  35  allow for a person to disassemble the shield  10  easier when compared to a shield made of a whole piece (i.e. not in segments) or having permanent fastening means. By removing the flexible fastener  39 , the segments  12  may be separated (disjoined along the tongue and groove connector  35 ) and one segment  12  may be pulled away (for inspection or repair, for example). 
     The protrusions  38  are shown to be symmetrical, although this is not a requirement. The protrusions  38  also include a tab portion  40  which extends over the top surface of the shield segment  12 . The tab  40  creates a slot for the fastener  39  to fit under and prevents the fastener  39  from slipping off the protrusions  38 . The fastener  39  is then tightened or fastened to keep the shield segments  12  engaged at the seam  13 . 
       FIG. 8  also shows the tongue and groove connecting edges  35 . As shown in  FIG. 3 , on one side of the inner edge of the shield segment  12 , there is a groove edge  36  and on the other side of the inner edge there is a tongue edge  37 . When two shield segments  12  are joined/assembled, the corresponding tongue edge  37  of one shield segment  12  engages and fits into the corresponding groove edge  36  of the other shield segment  12 . The tongue and groove engagement  35  forms a seam  13 .  FIG. 8  shows the cross section of the tongue and groove engagement. As shown, the groove edge  36  has a groove for accepting and engaging with the tongue edge  37  having a tongue member. Respective surfaces of the tongue and grooved edges abut and engage each other thereby forming the seam  13  with an appropriate tolerance for accommodating expansion and contraction due to changes in temperature, for example. 
       FIG. 9  is a perspective view of a top shield according to an embodiment of the present invention. The shield shown in  FIGS. 9-11  shares similar structural elements and features as that of the shield shown in  FIGS. 1-8 . One similarity is the segments  12  use a tongue and groove connector  35  to join the two segments  12 . The differences between the shields shown in  FIGS. 1-8  and the shields shown in  FIGS. 9-11  are described below and some elements that are the same are not repeated. For example, the shield shown in  FIGS. 9-11  each also have the pockets  23 , support members  22 , tongue and groove connection  36 ,  37 , respectively, and joining member  16  with flexible fastener  39 . Instead of using joining members  16  to maintain the connection between two connected (engaged) shield segments  12 , the shield  10  of  FIG. 9  employs a connection assembly  48 , which may be a bracket  45  using rivets  46  to connect the segments  12 . The outside vertical edge  44  of the assembly  48  is formed to extend vertically above the top surface of the shield  10  along the inside outer edge  18  (instead of outside of the outer edge  18 , as in the formation of the vertical lip  17 ) on two sides opposite to each other. As mentioned above, the top surface of each shield segment  12  is graded away from the open center  26  to direct liquid and debris away from the seam  13 . As a result, the inside raised vertical edge  47  prevents liquid and debris from flowing onto the outer edge  18  having the raised vertical edge  47 , 48  and instead the liquid and debris flows to the outer edges  18  not having the raised vertical edge  47 , 44 . 
     The outside vertical edge  44  of the assembly  48  has holes  43  for accepting a rivet  46  (e.g., screw or the like), which are used to fasten the two segments  12  using a bracket  45  (shown in  FIG. 10 ). As shown, the connection assembly  48  is formed on opposite sides of the shield  10 . The connection assembly  48  has a width bound by the outside vertical edge of the assembly  44  and the inside vertical edge of the assembly  47 . The width forms a substantially hollow area (or pocket) within the shield segment suitable for a bracket  45  to be placed inside of (as shown in  FIG. 10 ). In addition, the edges  44 , 47  of the connection assembly  48  extend toward a corner, away from the seam  13  along the outer edge  18 . In one embodiment, the edges  44 , 47  of the connection assembly  48  do not wrap around corner, rather the edges  44 , 47  taper off before the corner, as shown in  FIG. 9 . In the alternative, the edges  44 ,  47  extend to wrap around the corner. 
     The top surface of the shield segments  12  are drafted away from the open center  26 . In addition, top surface of the shield segments  12  are drafted away from the seam  13  to direct liquid and debris away from the edges of the segments  12  constituting the tongue and groove connections  35 . 
       FIG. 10  is a bottom view of the top shield shown in  FIG. 9  according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in  FIG. 10 , when two shield segments  12  are joined, a tongue and groove engagement  35  is established, as discussed above. Further, a bracket  45  is provided on the underside of the shield  10 , which traverses the seam  13  on the underside of the shield  10  in the pocket formed by the connection assembly  48 . The bracket  45  may be fastened using a rivet  46  (i.e., pin, bolt, screw, or the like).  FIG. 9  shows may be used to fasten the bracket  45  of the connection assembly  48  thereby securing the two shield segments  12  in a fixed joined state. 
       FIG. 11  is a perspective view of a segment of the top shield shown in  FIG. 9  according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 11  shows the bracket  45  within the pocket formed by the connection assembly  48  on the underside of the shield  10 .  FIG. 11  shows the tongue  37  and groove  36  edges formed along the seam  13  of each segment  12 . 
       FIG. 12  is a perspective view of a top shield according to an embodiment of the present invention. The shape of the outer perimeter of the shield  51  shown in  FIG. 12  is circular or rounded rather than quadrilateral. As mentioned, the shield  51  has an open center  26  which may be quadrilateral or rounded in shape. The shield  51  shown in  FIG. 12  additionally includes the gasket assembly  20 , which is explained in greater detail below. The outer edge  58  around the shield  51  shown in  FIG. 12  extends beyond the outer surface of the support column cover  15  (similarly to other embodiments explained above). The shield  51  is made of two segments  12 , which when assembled to form the shield  10 , the two segments join together at the seam  55 . Rather than providing protrusions  38  with a fastener  39  used to secure the two segments in an assembled state, the segments  12  of the shield of  FIG. 12  are joined by a rounded substantially semicircular collar  52  (shown in  FIG. 14 ). 
     In addition, the top surface of the shield of  FIG. 12  is drafted away from the center to allow liquid and particles to fall off the shield  51 . Further, radial channels  53  are provided to guide the liquid and debris and are shaped as grooves in the top surface of the shield segments. The shield of  FIG. 12  also has an outer annular channel  50 , which the collar  52  is placed into. The heads  64  of each collar  52  (see  FIG. 14 ) fit into slots  54  formed into the top surface of the shield  51  and the outer channel  50 . The slots  54  have a shape corresponding to the heads  64  to accept the heads  64 . The heads  64  form a mechanical or compression fitting into the slots  54  upon assembly of the shield segments  12 . The pair of slots  54  are located opposite each other and one slot  54  of the pair is for fitting the head  64  of one collar  52  and the other slot  54  of the pair is for fitting the head  64  of the other collar  52 . Further, the slots  54  are shown to be essentially 90 degrees away from the seam  55  around the shield  51 , but this is not a limitation or requirement. 
     Located at intervals are passages  56 , which are indentations formed into the top surface of the shield  51 . The passages  56  allow liquid/debris to flow from the outer annular channel  50  through the passages  56  to the outer edge  58  located below. The bottom surface of the outer annular channel  50  and the bottom surface of the passage  56  are aligned so as to allow the passage of liquid/debris. As shown, the outer edge  58  is an annular stepped down edge formed around the perimeter of the shield  51 . Around the outer edge  58  and extending in a downward vertical direction is a vertical edge  60 . The vertical edge  60  is formed at an angle with respect to the outer edge  58  and may be less than 90 degrees (perpendicular to the outer edge  58 ). As shown in  FIG. 12 , the passages  56  are formed in intervals around the shield, but the passages  56  do not necessarily need to formed at intervals. Also, fewer or more passages  56  may be formed into the top surface of the shield. In addition, a well  59  is formed at each passage  56  to accept liquid and debris from the passage  56 . The bottom of the well  59  is flush with the outer edge  58 . 
     As a result of the structure shown in  FIG. 12  and explained above, liquid/debris may flow from the top surface of the shield  51  near the center down the radial channels  53  into the outer annular channel  50  through the passage  56  into the well  59  onto the outer edge  58  and off the vertical edge  60  (to the ground below). In some embodiments, the shield  51  extends beyond the outer surface of the support column  1  or cover  15  of the support column  1  so that falling liquid or debris does not contact the outer surface of the support column  1  or cover  15  of the support column  1 . 
       FIG. 13  is a detailed view of the encircled region of  FIG. 12  showing the bumps, passage, and outer annular channel according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 13  shows bumps  66  are formed extending inward toward the outer annular channel  50  to contact and engage with the collar  52 . The collar  52  engages the bumps  66  for compression fitting to keep the collar  52  in place once the shield  51  is constructed. A pair of bumps  66  is shown to be formed in the outer annular channel  50  at each radial channel  53 , however, the bumps  66  do not need to be formed at each radial channel  53 ; the bumps  66  may be formed in different locations that keep the collar  52  in place. 
     Further and as mentioned above,  FIG. 13  shows that the bottom of the passage  56  is flush and aligns with the outer annular channel  50 . The bottom of the passage  56  may also be included or graded to promote the flow of liquid/debris. 
       FIG. 14  is a collar used to connect top shield segments according to an embodiment of the present invention. In an embodiment the collar  52  is made of rust resistant metal (e.g., aluminum). The collar  52  can be any length suitable for securing the connection of the shield segments. Of course, the position of the slots  54  depends on the length of the collars  52 . The shape of the collar  52  is generally round to fit into the outer channel  50 . As shown, the collar  52  is a semicircular shape, since two are used to secure the shield  51 . As mentioned above, the collar  52  fits into the outer annular channel  50  and the body of the collar  63  engages with bumps  66 , while the heads of the collar  64  fit into and engage with the slots  54 . 
       FIG. 15  is a bottom view of a segment of the top shield shown in  FIG. 12  according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 15  shows the outer annular channel  50 , radial channels  53 , passages  56 , and wells  59  formed into the surface of the shield  51 . In addition, the bottom side of the well  59  contacts the bearing block  4  (or other structure on top of the support column  1 ). The contact  68  area of the well  59  supports the shield  51  on the top of the support column (or block bearing  4 , as the case may be). 
     The contact areas  68  enable the top surface of the shield to sit above the top of the support column and provide an air gap between the shield  10  and the top of the support column  10 . The air gap allows for air to flow between the shield  10  and top of the support column  10 . In addition, the air gap allows a person to inspect the top of the support column  1 , bearing block  4  and other structural components as well as the shield  10  without needing to remove or dissemble the shield. Accordingly, the shield of the present invention allows for an inspector to easily inspect the support column and other structural components. This is an object of the present invention. 
       FIG. 16  is a perspective view of the top shield of  FIG. 12  using a beam support collar according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 17  is another perspective view of the top shield of  FIG. 12  using a beam support collar  70  according to an embodiment of the present invention. The round top shield  51  according to an embodiment of the present invention as shown in  FIGS. 16 and 17  is similar to the shield shown in  FIG. 12 . In some practical applications of embodiments of the present invention, the structure(s) on top of the support column  1  (e.g., pier cap, bearing block  4 ) are too large for a top shield of other embodiments to be practically installed onto the top of the support column  1 . In such cases, the shield  51  of the  FIGS. 16 and 17  may be installed with a beam support collar having collar  70  extensions  74  that attach to a support beam using mechanical attachments  72 , such as a screw clamp. 
     Similar to embodiments described above the shield uses gaskets  88  of gasket assembly  20  and the outer edge of the shield  51  extends beyond the outer surface of the support column  1 , whether having a cover  15  or not, as shown by the dashed lines in  FIG. 16 . The support column  1  is shown to have a cover  15  in  FIG. 16 . In addition, the heads  64  of the beam support collar  70  fit into slots  54  to secure the shield  51  once installed and uses bumps  66  at one end of each channel  50  to provide a mechanical engagement of the body of the beam support collar  70  in the outer annular channel  50 , such as compression fit or friction fit. It is noted that there are many similarities between the structure of the shield shown in  FIGS. 16 and 17 , but only some are noted above. 
       FIG. 18  is a perspective view of a beam support collar used to connect shield segments and suspend the shield from a structure according to an embodiment of the present invention. The beam support collar  70  shown in  FIG. 18  is shown without the mechanical attachments  72  used to attach the collar to the I beam  2 . The mechanical attachments  72  may be a clamp or screw type fitting to attach to the I beam  2 .  FIG. 18  shows there are three collar extensions  74 , however, the number of collar extensions  74  may be more or less. The mechanical attachments  72  are provided at the I-beam  2  side of the collar extensions  74 . 
       FIG. 19  is a perspective view of the gasket assembly assembled around a bearing block  4  of a support column according to an embodiment of the present invention. The gasket assembly may be installed separately from the shields  10 . Typically, the gasket assembly  20  is installed above the shield  10  and below the support beam (I-beam)  2 . The gasket assembly  20  includes corner assemblies  78 , which are provided on each corner of the bearing block  4 . Of course, if the bearing block  4  is not rectangular in shape, it may contain fewer or more corners and therefore a corresponding number of corner assemblies can be assembled for the gasket assembly  20 . In general, one or more rods  76  each support a gasket between the corner assemblies  78 . 
     In addition, the upper edge of each gasket (angled edge)  85  may be tapered along the surface that contacts the bearing block  4 . As a result of the tapering, the thickness of the upper edge  85  may be thinner than the thickness near the lower edge  87 . In other words, liquid and debris are prevented from dripping down the outer surface of the bearing block  4  on top support column  1  through the gaskets  88 . Rather, the gasket  88  wicks the liquid down and away from the outer surface (e.g., concrete) of the bearing block  4 . As mentioned above, the gaskets  88  may be biased toward the bearing block  4  to apply pressure to ensure contact and therefore create a seal by a spring or other tension member, for example (not shown). Further,  FIG. 3  shows two gaskets  20  arranged on adjacent sides of the shield segment  12 . 
     The shield  10  has an open quadrilateral center. The gasket assembly  20  is attached around the open quadrilateral center  26  and the upper angled edge of the gasket  85  contacts the bearing block  4  to form a seal preventing liquid and debris from falling between the bearing block  4  and the shield  10 . 
     The gasket  88  may be formed of plastic or rubber or any other material capable of forming a seal against the bearing block  4 . As mentioned above, the gasket  88  may consist of a blade of flexible material that fits snugly around the vertical sidewall of the bearing or undersurface of the beam without the use of an adhesive, although this is not a limitation. In one example, the flexible material is applied under slight compression to keep solutions from infiltrating the bearing assembly while allowing for mobility (e.g., thermal expansion and contraction) of the bearing. 
       FIG. 20  is perspective view of a gasket assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 20  shows each corner assembly  78  has a notch  79  which conforms to the outer corner of the bearing block  4 .  FIG. 20  shows the notch  79  is squared (at a right angle), however, the notch may be formed of any shape that conforms to the shape of the outer corner of the bearing block  4  to which it is being assembled. A rivet (e.g., screw or bolt) is used to attach each corner assembly  78  to the bearing block. As shown in the rivet  80  penetrates through the corner assembly into the bearing block  4  (the actual penetration of the rivet into the bearing block  4  is not shown). Each corner assembly also has one or more slots  81  for accepting respective ends of the rods  76 . The rods are threaded at both ends to accept a nut  82  to secure the rod in place once each end of the rod is assembled into each respective slot of each corner assembly. The rods may be made of plastic or metal. The rods are preferably rust resistant. 
       FIG. 21  is a perspective view of a gasket according to an embodiment of the present invention. The gasket  88  has a hollow center  86  to accept the rod  76 . As mentioned above, the rod  76  slides through the opening of the hollow center  86  to support the gasket  88  on the rod. The gasket has an angled edge  85 , which contacts the outer edge of the bearing block  4  to wick away moisture and debris. The angled edge has characteristics similar to a wiper blade on a car windshield. As shown, another edge  87  extends from the rod along the length of the gasket. 
       FIG. 22  is a top view of a gasket assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 23  is a cross section taken along the line  23 - 23  of  FIG. 22 .  FIG. 23  shows the gasket  88  having angled edge  85  and edge  87  extending away from the rod  76 . The angled portion of the edge is shown to face up, rather than down toward the bearing block  4 . 
       FIG. 24  is a perspective view of shield segments  112  connected to form a shield  110  on top of a support column  101  and around a bearing block according to an embodiment of the present invention. The top shield  110 , like the shield  10  described above, has a round shape (e.g.,  FIG. 12 ).  FIG. 24  shows a top shield  110 , which is two shield segments  112  connected together. The support column  101  and other parts of the support structure are described as being made of concrete or having an outer layer of concrete. But, this is merely an example of the application of the shield  110 . The top shield  110  may be applied to structures other than support structures and the structures may be composed of materials other than concrete. The top of the support column  110  is shown to include a bearing block  104 . Bearing blocks and other associated hardware are of various shapes and sizes. The shape of the center portion of the shield  110  may be configured to accommodate any shape or size of the bearing block which it surrounds. In other words, the shield  110  may be formed to correspond to many shapes or structures of the bearing block  104  and is not limited to what is shown. 
     Like the shields described above and as is apparent in the following figures and descriptions, the shield  110  may be composed of two shield segments  112  joined together at a seam  113 . Throughout the following description, the shield  110  is described as being in two segments  112 , which are joined/connected together to form the shield  110 . However, the shield  110  may formed of more than two segments  112  without departing from the spirit of the invention. Forming the shield in two segments  112  allows for ease of installation (assembly) and removal (disassembly). Further, a seam  113  may refer to the edge or side of a respective shield segment  112  or a where shield segments  112  contact or abut each other when they are connected or assembled. The segmented design also allows for repairs to the structure (e.g., support column, bearing block etc.) to be conducted easily since only a segment of the shield needs to be removed to uncover an area that needs to be repaired or further inspected. The top shield  110  may also be configured to include the gasket assembly described above. 
     As mentioned above, it is an object of the present invention to provide a shield  110  that prevents liquid (e.g., rain water, solution) and other particulate (e.g., debris) from falling onto the surface of the support column  101  or the bearing block  104 . In particular, the structure of the shield  110  is formed such that liquid and debris that falls onto the shield is directed away from the center of the shield and onto the ground below without contacting the surface of the support structure. The liquid and debris are guided off the sides of a shield through a slot or cut out  123  formed in the vertical lip  117 . The shield  110 , when formed by connecting two or more shield segments  112 , may essentially have a conical shape or a dome-type shape. Such that a center portion is higher in the vertical direction than the outer perimeter of the top shield  110 . 
     The top shield in  FIG. 24  shows two cover segments which may be connected with a bracket assembly  116 . As shown, the outer most vertical lip  117  has notches or guidelines  121  which may guide installation personnel to cut or otherwise form a cutout or slot  123  in the vertical extending lip  117 . The notches or guidelines  121  may be formed every 10 degrees around the shield segment  112  (i.e., vertical lip  117 ), for example. The guidelines  121  may be impressions and may be a thinner thickness than the thickness of the vertical lip  117  not including a guideline  121  to allow for removal of a portion of the vertical lip  117  between two guidelines  121  to from a slot  123 . The cutout or slots  123  may not be formed until the point of installation. The cutouts or slots  123  allow for the installation personnel to configure where the exit for liquid or debris falling onto the shield  110  may be. Until the slots  123  are formed, the vertical lip  117  is a continuous barrier or wall. The shield segments  112  are also pitched (i.e., sloped, graded, or drafted) to bias liquid or debris away from the center and allow the liquid or debris to fall away using gravity through the slots  123  in the vertical lip  117 . For example, the top main surface  107 , intermediate main surface  108 , and outer main surface are sloped or angled downward away from the center of the shield segment  112 . Additionally, the outer edge  118  may be formed lower in the vertical direction than the outer main surface  115 , which may be formed lower in the vertical direction than the intermediate surface  108 , which may be formed lower in the vertical direction than the top main surface  107 . The top main surface  107 , intermediate surface  108 , and outer main surface of each cover segment  112  may also be drafted (i.e., angled) away from the seam  113 . 
     Although apparent in the Figs., the top main surface  107 , intermediate main surface  108 , outer main surface  115  refer to surfaces of the cover segment that essentially face upward toward the I-beam  102 . Between the top main surface  107  and the intermediate main surface  108  in the radial direction a collar channel  150  is provided, which will be described in more detail below. An intermediate face  122 , which faces outward and spans in the vertical direction, may be formed at an oblique angle (angle other than 90°) or at a right angle with respect to the intermediate main surface  108 . The outer main surface  115  may be formed at an oblique angle or at a right angle with respect to the intermediate face  122 . As better shown in  FIG. 26 , the outer face  125 , which faces outward and spans in the vertical direction, may be formed at an oblique angle or at a right angle with respect to the outer main surface  115 . Further, the outer edge  118  may be formed at an oblique angle or a right angle with respect to the outer face  125  and the vertical lip  117  may be formed at an oblique angle or right angle with respect to the outer edge  118 . The outer edge  118  extends outward and away from the center of the shield segment  112  and the vertical lip extends substantially vertical. 
     The top main surface  107  may have the widest width in the radial direction among the intermediate main surface  108 , outer main surface  115 , and outer edge  108 . A Width of the top main surface  107  in the radial direction may be 15.25″. A width of the collar channel  150  in the radial direction may be 0.29″. A width of collar  152  may be 0.25″. A width of the intermediate main surface  108  in the radial direction may be 2.9″. A width of outer edge  118  in the radial direction may be 1″. Additionally, a height of the vertical lip  117  may be 2″. 
       FIG. 25  is a top view of a shield according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 25  shows an assembled shield  110  of two shield segments  112  around a bearing block  104 . The shield  110  in  FIG. 25  is shown above a horizontal member  103 , which may be made of concrete. As shown, the slots  123  in the vertical lip  117  are formed in a portion of the vertical lip  117  that is not above or over the horizontal member  103  in the vertical direction. This allows the liquid or debris to fall off the shield  110  away from the horizontal member  103 .  FIG. 25  shows two slots opposite to each other; however, there may be fewer or more than two slots and the slots do not need to be opposite to each other. 
     The top view of  FIG. 25  further shows radial channels  153  and radial ribs  154  disposed in the top main surface  107  of the shield segments  112 . The top main surface  107  of each shield segment  112  is the top surface closest to the center of the shield and each of the intermediate main surface  108 , outer main surface  115 , and outer edge  118  may be formed concentrically in each semi-circular shield segment  112 . The radial channels  153  may be grooves, channels, or concave depressions in the top main surface  107 , for example, that allow for liquid or debris to be channeled in the collar channel  150 , which will be described in more detail below. The lower end of each radial channel  153  in the vertical direction has a spout or opening into the collar channel  150 . The radial channels  153  provide structure and support for the cover segments  112 . There may be one or more radial channels  153  formed and the channels may be spaced apart evenly around the top main surface  107 . 
     One or more radial ribs  154  may be formed in the top main surface  107  of the cover segment  112 . The radial ribs  154  also provide structure and support for the cover segments  112 . The radial ribs  154  may be convex protrusions protruding out from the top main surface  107  and may be spaced apart evenly around the top main surface  107 . 
       FIG. 26  is a perspective view of two shield segments  112 , a collar  152 , and a bracket assembly  116  used to connect two cover segments  112  according to an embodiment of the present invention. In  FIG. 26 , two cover segments  112  with a collar  152  and the bracket assembly  116 , which both may be used to connect and fasten the shield  110 , when the two cover segments  112  are connected. Each of the collar  152  and the bracket assembly  116  will be explained in more detail below. 
     As mentioned, between the intermediate main surface  108  and the top main surface  107 , a collar channel  150  may be disposed in the top surface of the shield segment  112 . The width of the collar channel  150  in the radial direction should be wide enough for a collar  150  to be placed into and may not be wider than necessary for harboring or engaging the collar  150 . Further, the necessary depth of the collar channel  150  in the vertical direction is a depth sufficient to harbor the collar channel  150  so that a top surface of the collar channel  150  does not breach a plane of the top main surface  107  or intermediate surface  108 . 
     Near the seams  113  of a shield segment  112 , the outer edge  118  may include an angled portion  119 . At angled portion  119  of the outer edge  118 , the outer edge  118  rises to form a slope or angled surface at an oblique angle with respect to outer edge  118  to direct liquid or debris within the channel formed by the outer edge  118 , vertical lip  117 , and outer face  125  away from the seam  113 . 
       FIG. 26  further shows depressions or indentations  129  that may be formed in the intersection of the edges of the structure of the intermediate main surface  108  and intermediate face  122 . As will be explained with reference to  FIG. 37 , the depressions  129  provide for nested stacking of multiple shield segments  112 . One or more of the depressions  129  may be formed and they may be spaced apart in the intermediate main surface  108  and intermediate face  122  according to regular intervals. Further shown are stepped passages  159  which may be formed into the top main surface  107 , intermediate main surface  108  and intermediate face  122 . One or more stepped passages  159  may be formed and may be spaced apart according to a regular interval. 
     A stepped passage  159  may be an indentation or recess having stepped surfaces formed into at least one of the main surface  107 , intermediate main surface  108 , collar channel  150 , and intermediate face  122 . The stepped passage  159  allows liquid and debris to flow off the top main surface  107 , through the collar channel  150 , and continue through the intermediate top surface  108  and intermediate face  122  onto the outer main surface  115 . Two steps are shown facing upward and having corresponding outward facing vertical faces. 
     For example, a top portion of a stepped passage  157  may be formed in the top main surface  107  of each shield segment  112  between radial ribs  154 . The top portion of a stepped passage  157  is a concave depression formed into the top main surface  107  and the face that extends vertically downward from the top main surface  107 . The stepped passage has a top step which may be angled to allow liquid or debris to flow down through the collar channel  152 . The top step may also be flush with the collar channel  150 . Another concave portion of the stepped passage  159  may be formed into the intermediate main surface  108  and the intermediate face  122 . The intermediate main surface  108  may have tapered edges that are angled or sloped toward the stepped passage  159 . Another step may be formed in the bottom portion  156  of the stepped passage  159 . The step may be flush with outer main surface  115  and may be angled or sloped. The step may also be raised with respect to the outer main surface  115 . 
       FIG. 27  is a top view of a shield segment according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 27  shows the connection member  140  and the connection portion  146  that is formed on each shield segment  112 . A connection portion  146  may be formed on one side of a cover segment along the seam  113 . The connection portion  146  may be recessed with respect to the top surface of the top main surface  107  and may be recessed with respect to the top surface of the intermediate main surface  108 . The connection portion  146  may be a surface that a bracket of the bracket assembly  116  engages with upon assembly of the shield using at least two shield segments  112 . The depth of the recession of the connection portion  146  may be such that a top surface of a top bracket  130  is flush with the top main surface  107 . In addition, one or more holes  147  may be formed in the connection portion to receive rivets of the connection assembly  116 . Further, as shown, a connection portion tab  148  extends in a downward direction off the seam  113  and may extend at a right angle or oblique angle with respect to the top main surface  107 . The connection portion tab extends downward in the vertical direction at least enough to enter a radial slot  143  of a connection member  140  of another shield segment  112 . 
     A connection member  140  may be formed along a seam  113  at a right angle on a side opposite of the shield segment  112  that the connection portion  146  is formed. The connection member  140  may include a slot  143  in the radial direction through at least one of the top main surface  107 , intermediate main surface  108 , outer main surface  115 , and outer edge  118 . The radial slot  143  may have a depth at least sufficient enough for a connection portion tab  148  of another shield segment  112  to enter. In other words the depth of the radial slot  143  may correspond of the depth of the connection portion tab  148 . The connection member  140  may be sloped or angled away from center in a downward direction. Further, at a same radial distance from a center of the shield segment  112 , the top surface  141  of the connection member  140  is lower in the vertical direction than the top main surface  107 . As shown, one or more holes  142  may be provided in the connection member  140 . 
     Upon assembly or connection of two, for example, shield segments  112 , the connection portion  146  of one shield segment  112  fits overtop of the connection member  140  of another shield segment  112 . The slot  143  accepts the connection portion tab  148 . In other words, the connection portion tab  148  fits in the slot  143  and the slot  143  may make a mechanical connection with the connection portion tab  148 . Additionally, the top surface  141  of the connection member may abut the bottom surface (underneath) of the connection portion  146 . 
       FIG. 28  is a bottom view of a shield segment according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 28  shows the bottom surfaces of the depressions  129  and the bottom surfaces of the stepped passage  159 . The bottom surface of the stepped passage  159  may have a contact portion  168  which may come into contact with the top surfaces of the support structure  101 .  FIG. 28  also shows the bottom surfaces of the slot  143  of the connection member  140  and the connection portion tab  148 . Additionally,  FIG. 28  shows the bottom surfaces of convex formed radial ribs  154  and concave formed radial channels  153 . 
       FIG. 29  is a top view of a shield segment showing bearing block notches according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 29  shows a slot  123  formed in the vertical lip  117  and notches or cutouts  124  formed in the vicinity of the center of the top main surface  107 . At one stage of manufacturing the center of the top main surface of the shield segment  112  does not include notches  124 . The notches  124  may be measured and cut out according to the shape and size of a bearing block  104 . In addition, a grid pattern may be formed over the center of the shield segment  112  (shown in  FIGS. 26 and 27 ) as a guide for measuring the notches  124 .  FIG. 29  also shows a center recess portion  114 , which is a dimple or concave portion that biases liquid and debris away from the notches  124 . 
       FIG. 30  is a partial cross sectional view along the line  132 - 132  of  FIG. 29 .  FIG. 31  is a detailed view of the encircled area of  FIG. 30  showing the angled surfaces of the shield segment according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 31  shows a slot  123  formed by removal of a portion of the vertical lip  117 . As shown in the detailed view, the liquid and debris runs off the edge of the outer edge  118  in the area of the slot  123 . As mentioned above, the outer edge  118  may be an essentially flat surface that is angled downward at an oblique angle with respect to the flat surface of the outer face  125 . Outer main surface  115  is also essentially flat and angled downward at an oblique angle with respect to the intermediate face  122  (although not shown in  FIG. 31 ).  FIG. 31  further shows the bottom portion  156  of the stepped passage  159  including a step of the bottom portion  156 . As shown in  FIG. 31 , the vertical lip  117  may not be 90° perpendicular to the outer edge  118 ; rather, the vertical lip  117  may be angled (oblique) with respect to vertical. 
       FIG. 32  is detailed perspective view of a shield segment according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 32  is a detailed view of the angled portion  119  of the outer edge  118 . As shown, the side of the angled portion  119  closest to the seam  113  is higher than the remaining portion of the outer edge  118  in the vertical direction. Between the angled portion  119  and the outer edge  118 , an angled step  120  may be formed. The angled portion  119  serves to bias liquid and debris away from the seam. Each end of the outer edge  18  may be provided with the angled portions  119 . The top of the angled portion  119  near the seam  113  may be flush with or at a same height in the vertical direction as the outer main surface  115 . 
       FIG. 33  is a perspective view of a bracket assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. The bracket assembly  116  may include a top bracket  130 , bottom bracket  128 , and one or more rivets  127  (e.g., bolts) for securing the top bracket  130  and the bottom bracket  128 . With reference to  FIG. 29 , a top bracket  130  may engage with the surface of the connection portion  146  and a bottom bracket  128  may engage with a bottom surface of the connection member  140 . The bolts  127  are placed through corresponding holes  142  and  147 .  FIG. 33  shows the top bracket  130  and the bottom bracket  128  having a rectangular shape, however, this is merely one example and brackets of other shapes may be used. In addition, other bracket techniques known in the art may be used to connect shield segments  112  using the connection portion  146  and connection member  140 . 
       FIG. 34  is a perspective view of a collar according to an embodiment of the present invention. In an embodiment the collar  152  is made of rust resistant metal (e.g., aluminum). The collar  152  can be any length suitable for securing the connection of the shield segments. The shape of the collar  152  is generally round to fit into the collar channel  150 . One end of the collar  152  may attach to another end of the collar  152  using a bolt assembly  151 . 
       FIG. 35  is a cross sectional view along the line  134 - 134  of  FIG. 25  and  FIG. 36  is a detailed view of the encircled area of  FIG. 35  showing the angled surface of the collar channel according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 36  shows that at least a portion of the face  160  of the collar channel  150  that is closest to the center of the shield segment  112  has a cavity forming an “under cut,” which prevents the collar  152  from slipping out of the collar channel  150  when the collar  152  is installed. One or more portions of the face of the collar channel  150  may have the cavity  160 . The cavity  160  may mechanically engage the collar  152 . 
       FIG. 37  is a cross sectional view of two shield segments stacked on one another, which shows the stacking and nesting elements of the shield segments. A bottom surface  131  of the depression  129  may contact a top surface of top surface of the intermediate main surface  108  upon nesting multiple shield segments  112 . 
     It is further understood by those skilled in the art that although the foregoing description has been made on embodiments of the invention, the invention is not limited thereto and various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit of the invention and the scope of the appended claims.