Patent Publication Number: US-9428918-B2

Title: Modular cover for support column

Description:
This application is a continuation application of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/143,974, filed Dec. 30, 2013, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/747,635 filed Dec. 31, 2012, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/913,618 filed Dec. 9, 2013. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The invention relates to a modular cover for support structures having multiple cover segments connected together using multiple connection techniques. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Covers for support structures, such as columns, include sleeves, shields, and wraps that cover the support structure. The covers are for protecting a support structure of, for example, a bridge or an overpass commonly located along roadways. 
     In areas where snow and ice accumulate, and the snow is removed from the road by a snow plow or other snow removal device, road salts, chemicals, and other materials incidentally adhere to the support columns along the road. In many instances, the support structures are made of concrete. As a result, erosion and deterioration of the supports occurs necessitating major repair, which is costly. 
     One preventative measure available to inhibit corrosion of the concrete support is supplied by routine painting of the supports. However, painting is expensive, poses a safety risk to workers, and disrupts traffic in areas where the maintenance is taking place. Also, the paint only lasts for a short period of time. Accordingly, the painting process only assists in the preventative maintenance, and becomes a continuous/recurring procedure. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The modular cover for support structures having multiple cover segments according to embodiments of the invention prevents the deterioration of the support structure while protecting it from the elements and chemicals mixed into precipitation. In particular, the invention is directed to the prevention of concrete spalling due to snow and chemicals (e.g., road salts) adhering to the surface of the concrete, without affecting the structural integrity of the bridge or overpass once the cover is installed. The cover will accommodate supports of any height and any shape. 
     Thus, the apparatus aims to prevent catastrophic bridge failures caused by the erosion of supports. The cover prevents the support member from peeling, rotting, or absorbing water and the cover therefore becomes resistant to salt corrosion. 
     The cover segments when connected together are aesthetically appealing. The modular cover is easy to install, cost effective, and environmentally friendly. The cover is lightweight, may be made of recyclable/recoverable material (green technology), and reduces safety issues/hazards that normally are associated with industry standard maintenance practices, such as the painting along roadways. Upon application of the present invention, road closures would be less frequent and bridge support life cycles would be longer. 
     It is an object of the present invention to provide a modular cover that protects support structures from corrosion and thereby overcome the drawbacks of the prior art. Further, it is an object of the present invention to provide a modular cover made of inexpensive material that a worker may install quickly and without difficulty. It is another object of the embodiments of the invention to provide modular cover that can be molded into shapes and designs that fit multiple shapes of supports structures. It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a cover that is light-weight and durable. Another object of the present invention is to provide vertical and lateral connecting features on the cover segments that allow one cover segment of multiple cover segments connected to form a cover to be uninstalled while leaving the other cover segments of the cover installed. 
     It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a modular cover for surrounding a support structure, including: a plurality of cover segments modularly connected to form the cover; lateral connectors formed on opposite sides of each cover segment in the lateral direction; top grooves formed periodically into a top flange member, which extends inwardly around the top surface of each cover segment; bottom extending members extending in a downward direction along a bottom surface of each cover segment; and a plurality of contact members formed as an indentations in the outer surface of each cover segment extending inward; wherein the lateral connectors of one side of a cover segment connect to corresponding lateral connectors formed on the opposite side of another cover segment, the bottom extending members of a cover segment fit into corresponding top grooves of another cover segment when cover segments are stacked vertically to form the cover. The cover segments are formed of high density polyethylene. On one side of the cover segment the lateral connectors are formed as a protruding member extending outwardly, and on the opposite side of the cover segment, the lateral connectors are formed as an accepting member for accepting the protruding member. Further, upon connection, the lateral connectors form a mechanical connection. The lateral connectors, top flange member, and bottom extending members, are formed as one piece. 
     The cover segment further includes a bottom extending flange member which extends in an inward direction around the bottom surface of each cover segment, wherein the bottom extending members are formed to extend in a downward direction off of the bottom extending flange member, and upon vertical stacking of cover segments to form the cover the bottom surface of the bottom extending flange member contacts the top surface of the top flange member. The lateral connectors on one side of the cover segment are formed to have top and bottom concave surfaces, the lateral connectors on the opposite side of the cover segment are formed to have top and bottom concave surfaces and are formed to accept the lateral connectors on the one side of a cover segment, the later connectors on the one side of the cover segment and the lateral connectors on the opposite side of another cover segment connect such that a side edge of each cover segment connected is flush when connected, and a flexible fastener is used to secure the connection made between the lateral connectors, the flexible fastener is guided by the top and bottom concave surface of the lateral connector on the opposite side of the cover segment. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a cover according to an embodiment of the invention surrounding a support column. 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view of the cover shown in  FIG. 1  having two cover segments. 
         FIG. 3  is a plan view of first and second pairs of cover segments, each segment of one pair joined laterally with the other segment of the pair, and the first and second pairs stacked vertically according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 4  is a top view of the cover of the present invention. 
         FIG. 5  is a cross section of the cover of the first embodiment taken along line  5 - 5  of  FIG. 4 . 
         FIG. 6  is an enlarged partial sectional view of a connecting area of the cover segments of the first embodiment. 
         FIG. 7  is a cross section of the cover of the first embodiment along the  7 - 7  line of  FIG. 4 . 
         FIG. 8  is a partial sectional view of the cover segments of the first embodiment showing a stand off feature of the cover segments according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 9  is a partial sectional view of the cover segments showing a tongue and groove feature for vertically attaching cover segments according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 10  is a partial plan view of the cover segments of the first embodiment showing cable ties for horizontally or laterally connecting cover segments. 
         FIG. 11A  is a top view of a segment of the cover. 
         FIG. 11B  is a plan view of a cover segment of  FIG. 11A . 
         FIG. 12A  is a top view of a cover segment of the cover according to another embodiment. 
         FIG. 12B  is a plan view of the cover segment of  FIG. 12A . 
         FIG. 13  is a partial perspective view of the cover segments to be joined laterally according a second embodiment of the present invention which uses a sleeve connection feature for horizontally connecting cover segments. 
         FIG. 14A  is a top view of the sleeve of the second embodiment. 
         FIG. 14B  is a partial perspective view of the sleeve of the second embodiment. 
         FIG. 15  is a top view of cover segments of the second embodiment showing two cover segments connected using the sleeve connection feature for horizontally connecting cover segments. 
         FIG. 16  is a partial perspective view of cover segments according to a third embodiment of the present invention in which a band connection horizontally connects the cover segments. 
         FIG. 17  is a top view that shows the band connector for the cover segments of the third embodiment. 
         FIG. 18  is a partial top view of the cover segments of the third embodiment showing two cover segments connected using the rubber tie connection feature for horizontally connecting cover segments. 
         FIG. 19  is a perspective view showing two segments of a cover of a fourth embodiment. 
         FIG. 20  is a plan view showing a segment of the cover of the fourth embodiment. 
         FIG. 21  is a cross sectional view of the cover of the fourth embodiment taken along line  21 - 21  line of  FIG. 20 . 
         FIG. 22  is a partial sectional view taken from  FIG. 21  of the cover of the fourth embodiment showing one end of a connector for horizontally connecting cover segments. 
         FIG. 23  is a partial sectional view taken from  FIG. 21  of the cover of the fourth embodiment showing one end of a connector for horizontally connecting cover segments. 
         FIG. 24  is a perspective view of the cover and vertical jack according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 25  is a plan view of a vertical jack of according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 26  is a perspective view showing a cover assembly raised by a vertical jack according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 27  is a perspective view showing a cover assembly supported by a pole support according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 28  is a plan view of a pole support according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 29  is a perspective view showing an assembly installed under a raised assembly according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 30  is a perspective view showing the support jack supporting multiple stacked assemblies according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 31  is a perspective view of a cover according to an embodiment of the invention surrounding a support column. 
         FIG. 32A  is a perspective view of a cover segment of the cover in  FIG. 31  of an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 32B  is another perspective view of a cover segment of the cover in  FIG. 31  of an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 33A  is a perspective view of a side of a cover segment of an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 33B  is a perspective view of a cover segment of an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 33C  is a perspective view of a side of a cover of an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 33D  is a perspective view of the bottom of a cover segment according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 34A  is a plan view of cover segments connected to form a cover of the present invention. 
         FIG. 34B  is a cross section taken along line I-I of a cover shown in  FIG. 34A . 
         FIG. 35  is an enlarged partial sectional view of a vertical connection of cover segments. 
         FIG. 36  is an enlarged partial sectional view of a vertical connection of cover segments. 
         FIG. 37A  is a top view of a cover of an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 37B  is a cross section taken along line I-I of a top view of the cover of  FIG. 37A . 
         FIG. 38  is an enlarged partial sectional view of a vertical connection of cover segments. 
         FIG. 39  is an enlarged partial sectional view of a lateral connection of cover segments. 
         FIG. 40A  is a top view of a cover of an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 40B  is a cross section taken along line I-I of the cover shown in  FIG. 40A . 
         FIG. 41  is an enlarged partial sectional view of a vertical connection of cover segments. 
         FIG. 42  is a perspective view showing the stacking and nesting features of an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 43  is a plan view showing one cover segment of multiple cover segments removed while leaving the remaining cover segments installed. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     The modular cover for support structures according to embodiments of the invention has multiple cover segments connected together using multiple connection techniques. Although the examples of the uses of the modular cover or cover apparatus refer to covering support structures, which are column supports for a bridge or an overpass, the invention is not limited to that use. The cover may be adapted and modified to fit around structures of many shapes and sizes. Additionally, the cover segments of the modular cover 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 cover segments are preferably made of high density polyethylene. The cover segments may be structured according to the shape of the support structure to be covered, e.g., a column of circular cross section. The present invention is not limited to any of the mold process listed above. 
       FIG. 1  shows a modular cover or cover apparatus  2  according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The cover  2  is comprised of a plurality of cover segments  10  according to the first embodiment that are connected to each other to cover a support structure  1 . The support structure  1  as referred to herein is a bridge support column, pier, pillar, pole, abutment or any other component used to support an overpass or a bridge, etc. The figures show a cover  2  in a circular form configured to cover a concrete support structure  1  that has a cylindrical shape. Although the figures show the cover in a circular form to cover a structure that has a cylindrical shape, the cover segments may be manufactured to cover support structures of any shape, such as rectangular, and the shape of the cover is not limited to that shown in the figures. 
     The cover is modular in that segments  10  are connected laterally (horizontally) together, and also vertically together (stacked on one another) to cover a support structure in situ. Preferably, the cover segments  10  are joined laterally in one vertical layer. The vertical layer is lifted so that another vertical layer of segments  10 , which have been joined laterally around the support  1 , can be connected. The lifted vertical layer is then lowered onto the lower vertical layer to connect in the vertical direction. The vertical layers of the stacked modular cover  1  are able to be continued to achieve a vertical stack of a desired overall height. 
       FIG. 2  shows a pair of cover segments  10  that when laterally joined cover a circular cylindrical support  1 . Each of the segments  10  includes lateral connectors  50 , support legs  30 , support leg slots  40 , a plurality of stand offs  20 , groove interconnector  70 , and tongue interconnectors  80 . When cover segments  10  are connected using the lateral connectors  50 , support legs  30 , support leg slots  40 , groove interconnector  70 , and tongue interconnectors  80 , a uniform cover  2  is provided that is impermeable to a precipitation and resultant chemical mixture from the application of chemicals (e.g., road salts) added to a roadway. 
     As shown primarily in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , a plurality of stand offs or spacers  20  are formed in each cover segment  10 . The stand offs are arranged in evenly spaced intervals on the cover segment  10  about 60 degrees apart in one embodiment; however, the arrangement may be adjusted according to the support structure  1  being covered. 
     The stand offs  20  are formed as a pocket molded inwardly from the outer surface  3  of the cover segment  10  and as a result extend inwardly toward the support structure  1  when the cover segment  10  is installed. As a result of the formation, a stand off pocket  22  is formed. The stand offs  20  function as spacers to keep the cover  2  from being held in full contact with the surface of the support structure  1 . Additionally, as shown in  FIG. 8 , which is a detailed view of the cross sectional view of  FIG. 7  taken along line  7 - 7  of  FIG. 4 , a gap  21  for tolerance of expansion may be provided between the stand off  20  and the surface of the support structure  1 . The gap  21  allows for expansion of the support column  1  material (concrete) due to fluctuations in temperature, for example. Accordingly, the stand offs  20  are not all in contact with the support structure  1 , and depending on the expansion state of the support structure  1 , a gap  21  may exist between the support structure  1  and several of the stand offs  20 . 
     Each cover segment  10  is provided with a plurality of support legs  30  according to embodiments of the invention, which are formed along the base or bottom portion  5  of the cover segment  10 .  FIGS. 1 and 2  show support legs  30  extending downwardly from a bottom edge  34  of the segment  10  to make contact with the surface of the ground or other area surrounding the support structure  1 . Additionally, support legs  30  provide a point of contact with the area surrounding the support structure  1  that are suitable for supporting the weight of the cover  2 . Two support legs  30  per segment  10  are shown in the drawings; however, additional support legs  30  are possible for supporting a segment  10 . 
       FIG. 1  shows the support legs  30  to have a square profile, however the profile of the support legs  30  may alternatively be tapered, pointed or curved at the ground engaging portion. An additional function of the support legs  30  is to raise or elevate the bottom portion  5  of the cover segment  10  so that a clearance  60  is provided between the bottom edge  34  and the area surrounding the base of the support structure  1  to provide for space at the bottom of the segment in which air can flow. At the top portion  4  of the cover, air is also able to flow through channels  8 . By permitting air flow underneath the cover  2 , between the cover  2  and the support structure  1 , and through the top portion  4 , accumulation of moisture is prevented. Additionally, the support legs  30  elevate the cover segment  10  to enable a worker to inspect the integrity of the support column  1  by viewing the support structure  1 . For example, visual observation is available for the detection of spalling or defects. The clearance  60  created as a result of the support legs  30  further allows a space for a worker to conduct maintenance of the support structure  1 . The support legs  30  also provide an area for liquid, such as rain water, to escape. 
       FIG. 1  shows a first pair of segments  10  on which are stacked a second pair of segments  10  to form a modular cover  2  having a total of four segments  10 . Each cover segment  10  is provided with a plurality of support leg slots  40  along a top portion  4  of the cover. The support leg slots  40  are formed into the outer surface  3  of the top portion  4  of each cover segment  10  and are formed into a shape that accepts the corresponding support leg  30  of a vertically adjacent segment  10  when the segments  10  of a second pair are stacked on top of a first pair, as shown in  FIG. 1 . Upon connection, the outer surface  3  of the support leg  30  of the upper cover segment in  FIG. 1  is flush with the outer surface  3  of the cover segment  10  below. It is apparent that the support legs  30  of one cover segment  10  align with the support leg slots  40  of another cover segment in that the support legs  30  and the support leg slots  40  are spaced at the same intervals. The support leg  30  and support leg slot  40  engagement when the cover segments  10  are being stacked in the installation process, assists in the alignment of the cover segments  10 . 
       FIG. 9  is an enlarged detailed view of the area circled and labeled in  FIG. 7 .  FIG. 7  is a cross sectional view of a cover  2  taken along line  7 - 7  of  FIG. 4 .  FIG. 9  shows the tongue  80  of an upper stacked segment  10  engaged with the groove  70  of a lower segment  10  of cover segments  10  that are stacked vertically. As shown in  FIG. 1 , a plurality of groove interconnectors  70  are formed on the top portion  4  of each cover segment  10 . The groove interconnectors  70  are arranged at intervals in alignment with the corresponding tongue interconnectors  80 , which are formed along the bottom portion  5  of each cover segment  10 . Groove interconnectors  70  are formed as J-shaped flanges that provide a groove opening outwardly which accepts the corresponding tongue connectors  80  which are formed along the bottom edge  34  as shown in  FIG. 1 , for example. This enables the tongue interconnector  80  of an upper vertically adjacent cover segment to engage the groove interconnector  70  of a vertically adjacent and lower cover segment  10  to connect the cover segments  10  together. 
       FIG. 9  shows a portion of the tongue interconnector  80  that fits into the space provided by the groove interconnector  70  so that the end portion of the tongue interconnector fits up against the back of the groove, abutting upstanding flange portion  71  with an appropriate tolerance for accommodating expansion and contraction due to changes in temperature, for example. In this way, the outer surface  3  of each cover segment  10  is even with each other segment  10  so that the outer surfaces  3  of the segments are flush with each other. The tongue interconnector  80  engages the groove interconnector  70  such that the flat bottom portion  81  of the tongue  80  engages the adjacent flat portion  72  of groove interconnector  70 , with appropriate tolerance, to provide a connection between adjacent, vertically stacked cover segments  10 . Through the engagement of the groove interconnector  70  and tongue interconnector  80 , the stacked cover segments  10  are appropriately aligned so that the so that the outer surfaces  3  of the segments  10  are flush with each other to provide an appearance that the segments  10  form a continuous, essentially uninterrupted outer surface to the eye of the observer. 
     Each cover segment  10  includes a plurality of lateral connectors  50  formed on the sides  6 A,  6 B of each cover segment  10 . The lateral connectors  50  are arranged to align with corresponding lateral connectors  50  and connect in their respective ways and according to the following descriptions of the embodiments. 
       FIG. 4  shows a different view of the cover  2  shown in  FIG. 3  and  FIG. 5  is a cross section of  FIG. 4  across the  5 - 5  line. The cover segment  10  of the first embodiment includes a plurality of connector tabs  51  and a plurality of tab receivers  52 , constituting lateral connectors  50 , formed into the cover segment  10 . The connector tabs  51  are formed on one side ( 6 B in  FIG. 2 ) of a cover segment  10  and tab receivers  52  are formed on the opposite side ( 6 A in  FIG. 2 ) of a cover segment  10 .  FIG. 2  shows two cover segments  10 , which are not connected; while  FIG. 1  shows the cover segments  10  connected to form a cover  2  of the present invention. Sliding the connector tabs  51  on one cover segment  10  into the tab receivers  52  of another cover segment  10  makes a lateral connection. As shown in  FIG. 2 , the tab receivers  52  of side  6 A of the cover segment  10  are configured to receive the connector tabs  51  of side  6 B of another cover segment  10 . 
     Upon connection, as shown in  FIG. 1 , the faces of the edges of each side  6 A,  6 B contact and abut each other to form a seam in the cover  2 . However, the integrity of the cover  2  is not diminished as a result of the seam. 
     As shown in  FIG. 6 , when the connector tab  51  and tab receiver  52  are connected only the tab receiver  52  is visible on the outside. The connector tab  51  and tab receiver  52  are formed to extend outward from the outer surface  3  of the cover segment  10 . 
     The shape of the connector tab  51  is structured to correspond with the shape of the tab receiver  52  so that the connector tab  51  fits in the tab receiver  52 . In particular, the top concave portion  53 A of the tab receiver  52  is shaped to correspond to the top concave portion  55 A of the connector tab  51 . Additionally, the bottom concave portion  53 B of the tab receiver  52  is shaped to correspond to the bottom concave portion  55 B of the connector tab  51 . As a result of this configuration, the connector tab  51  fits firmly inside the tab receiver  52 . The lateral connectors  50  of each embodiment provide for appropriate tolerance for accommodating expansion and contraction due to changes in temperature, for example. 
       FIG. 10  shows a flexible fastener  54 , which is preferably a zip-type tie. Upon connection of the cover segments  10  according to the first embodiment, the fastener  54  is placed around the tab receiver  52  and fastened to maintain the connection of the tab receiver  52  and connector tab  51 . The top surface of the top concave portion  53 A and bottom surface of bottom concave portion  53 B of the tab receiver  52  guide the fastener  54  and provides for a notch-type area for the fastener  54  to be placed. 
     The cover segment  10  of the second embodiment of the present invention includes lateral connectors  50  of another configuration.  FIGS. 13 and 15  show connector blocks  110 , which are fastened using a sleeve  100 . A plurality of connector blocks  110  are provided on the sides  6 A,  6 B of each cover segment  10 . The connector blocks  110  are preferably formed in a block or cube type shape and extend outward from the outer surface  3  of the cover segment  10 . As shown in  FIGS. 13 and 15 , a stop block  111  is provided on each connector block  110  to engage the sleeve  100 . A C-shaped sleeve  100  is shown in  FIGS. 14A and 14B  which has 4 faces and is shaped to slide down the connector blocks  110  to maintain the connection of the cover segments  10 . Sleeve notches  112  are formed to accept the open face of the sleeve  100 . 
     The open ended face of the sleeve  100  faces the cover and slides down through sleeve notches  112  formed into each connector block  110 . The sleeve notches  112  accept the opposing open ends of the sleeve  100  and allow the sleeve  100  to slide down and engage stop blocks  11 . The faces of the connector blocks  110  contact and abut each other when the sleeve  100  is in place, as shown in  FIG. 15 . 
     Third embodiment includes yet another form of lateral connectors  50  of the present invention. Each cover segment  10  has a plurality of flange portions  120  for joining cover segments  10  in the lateral direction. As shown in  FIGS. 16 and 18 , the flange portions  120  extend outward from the outer surface  3  of cover segment  10  and are provided on the sides  6 A,  6 B of each cover segment  10 . Upon connection of the cover segments  10  in the lateral direction to form a cover  2 , the flange portions  120  of respective cover segments  10  become aligned and abut each other so that the respective faces of the flange portions  120  contact each other. The faces of the flange part  123  are substantially flat and are formed substantially perpendicular to the outer surface  3  of the cover  10 . Further, upon abutment the faces of the flange part  123  appear even and flush to an observer. 
     As shown in  FIG. 18 , a shoulder portion  121  and a tie notch are formed into each flange portion  120 . Flange portions  120  are provided with a tapered outer portion  124  that is useful for accepting a band  130  which can be fit around the outer most end of the tapered portions  124 , expand over the shoulder portions  121  and become seated to encircle the flange portions  120  for retaining the flange portions  120  in abutment with one another. 
     The band  130  functions to keep the face of the flange parts  123  in contact. In other words, the band  130  maintains the lateral connection between the substantially flat face of the flange part  123  and as a result, maintains the connection of the cover segments  10  to form a cover  2 . The band  130  is preferably a stretch band, which allows for relative expansion due to changes in temperature caused by weather changes, for example. The band  130  includes an opening  131  to fit around the flange portions  120  and may be made of a flexible material, such as rubber. 
       FIG. 19  shows the lateral connectors  50  of the fourth embodiment of the present invention. On each side  6 A,  6 B of the cover segment  10  are disposed a plurality of overlying parts for securing the cover segments  10  to an adjacent cover segment  10  in the lateral direction (or for securing opposite sides  6 A,  6 B of the cover segment so they connect). 
       FIG. 21  shows a cross section taken along  21 - 21  of  FIG. 20  of the cover segment  10  of the fourth embodiment showing cap part  141  and concave shaped structure  140 . At one end, a concave shaped structure  140  has a shell  148  with a shoulder step flange  142  that fits within a cap part  141 , through the open cavity of cap part  141 . The concave shaped structure  140  has a living hinge (not shown) that provides rotation of the shell  148  about hinge line  146 . When the shell  148  swings down 90° from the position shown in  FIG. 22  to be in line with the cover segment  10 , the cap  141  fits over the shell  148  to securely fasten the concave shaped structure  140  and cap part  141  together. As shown in  FIG. 23 , the cap  141  has a terminal flange  144  that engages the step flange  142  and is kept in the position by a bias force applying area  145  that is preferably molded into the cap part  141 . Upon connection of the concave shaped structure  140  and the cap part  141 , the edges  143 A and  143 B of the cover segment abut each other evenly and are flush to an observer. 
     Each of the cover segments  10  of the embodiments of the present invention may be shaped to correspond to the shape of the support structure.  FIG. 2 . shows two cover segments  10  that are each shaped in 180° semi circles to form a cover, when connected, around a support column  1  that has a circular cross section. However, the cover segments  10  may be shaped to form around a column or post with n (n is an integer) number of flat or curved faces. As an example, the cover segments may be shaped to form a cover around a support structure which has a cube, box, or square type structure that has 4 flat faces. 
     Another example of the shape of a support structure that the cover segments of the present invention may be shaped to cover is one that has two flat opposing sides and two curved opposing sides. In this example, a combination of linearly shaped cover segments and curve shaped cover segments are connected to form a cover according to the techniques herein described. 
     Additionally, the present invention allows for the module connection of cover segments of varying lengths (as measured form one side  6 A to the other  6 B). For example,  FIGS. 11A and 11B  show a cover segment  10  may be formed in a 120° segment (which has a length shorter than a 180° cover segment) and  FIGS. 12A and 12B  show a cover segment  10  may be formed in a 90° segment (which has a length shorter than a 120° segment). 
     The outer surface  3  of each cover segment  10  may also be customized with a variety of profiles and textures for aesthetic appeal. For example, the outer surface may resemble brick, stone, or concrete. The outer surface  3  may be any color and preferably a color that suits its environment. 
     The cover segments  10  and components (except for sleeve  100  and band  130 ) discussed above are also preferably molded using a single mold so that the cover segment is formed to be one piece that includes the lateral connectors  50  and vertical connecting techniques. The components may also be separately manufactured and added to a cover segment. 
     Described next are embodiments of devices and processes for installing the cover  2  of the present invention. Cover segments  10  are first connected laterally using any of the lateral connection techniques described in the embodiments of the present invention. For reference, the connection of cover segments  10  in the lateral direction around a support column  1  will be referred to herein as an assembly of cover segments  10 . In order to cover the vertical span of a support column  1 , multiple assemblies are stacked vertically (in layers) to a desired height. 
       FIG. 24  shows cover segments  10  connected to form an assembly (laterally connected cover segments  10 ) in a first position. One or more vertical jacks  160  are provided to lift an assembly to a second position shown in  FIG. 26 . The vertical jacks  160  may be used to lift or lower any of the combination of the cover segments  10  described above. Additionally, the vertical jacks  160  are portable and capable of raising and lowering multiple assemblies that have been vertically staked on top of one another. 
     One embodiment of a vertical jack  160  is shown in  FIG. 25  and is provided with a base  165  that supports a jack shaft structure  168 . The jack shaft  168  is connected to a base  165  by a base bracket  161 . The support jack  160  is also provided with a crank mechanism  163 , which is connected to the jack shaft  168  by a crank mechanism bracket  167 . The crank mechanism  163  may include a winch mechanism provided to crank a cable  169  which is attached at one end to a jack stand off insert  166 . The other end of the cable  169  is attached to a spool of the crank mechanism  163  as it goes through a pulley  162 , which is provided on top of the vertical jack shaft  168 . As shown in  FIG. 24 , one end of the jack stand off insert  166  is inserted into a stand off pocket  22  of a cover segment  10 . The opposite end of the jack stand off insert  166  fits into and is guided by a track inside of the jack shaft  168 . The track spans vertically along the jack shaft  168  and allows the jack stand off insert  166  to move in the vertical direction. 
     The jack stand off insert  166  is shaped to fit into the stand off pocket  22 , which is molded inwardly from the outer surface  3  of the cover segment  10  to form a stand off  20 . Accordingly, the jack stand off insert  166  is of a shape and structure corresponding to the stand off pocket  22 . Upon inserting the jack stand off insert  166  into the stand off pocket  22  of the cover, the assembly is ready to be raised by a worker by using the crank mechanism  163  to install another vertical layer of cover segments below the initial cover assembly, which is in the second position as shown in  FIG. 26 . Upon lifting the initial assembly to a desired position, one or more a pole supports  170  are inserted into an available stand off pocket  22  (i.e., not used by a vertical jack). A pole support  170  is inserted by a worker and maintains the raised position of the initial assembly in a reliable manner, for safety, for example. Additionally, the pole supports  170  are capable of supporting more than one layer of vertically stacked assemblies. 
     As shown in  FIG. 28 , a base  172  and pole stand off insert  173  are connected to the pole support shaft  174  using a suitable fixed, pivoted or fixable hinged connection, such as by welding or using a threaded fastener. While the pole support shaft  174  is shown to be used at an angled position with respect to the vertical direction, the pole may be set in a substantially vertical position. In order to secure the pole stand off insert  173  firmly fitted into a stand off pocket  22 , a fastening member may be attached therebetween or a cable secured around the periphery of the cover assembly linking several poles together. 
       FIG. 29  shows another assembly of cover segments  10  installed under the initial assembly which is raised in the second position. The jack stand off insert  166  of the vertical jack  160  is inserted into a stand off pocket  22  of the lower assembly as the pole support  170  supports the above layer. The lower assembly is then raised with the vertical jack  160  to engage the above assembly in the manner described above. In the alternative, the jack stand off insert  166  of the vertical jack  160  may be inserted into the stand off pocket  22  of the above assembly and then lowered to engage the assembly inserted below after the pole support  170  has been removed. 
       FIG. 30  shows the above and below cover assemblies raised using vertical jack  160  (only one of which is shown for clarity). As shown, the jack stand off insert  166  is inserted into a stand off pocket  22  of the lower assembly. A worker then cranks the crank mechanism to raise the lower assembly, and thereby all assemblies stacked on top, to a desired height to add an additional assembly below, if necessary. 
     The vertical jack and the pole supports are also useful for disassembly of the modular cover of the embodiments of the present invention. 
       FIG. 31  shows a modular cover or cover apparatus  2  according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. The cover  2  is comprised of a plurality of cover segments  10  that are connected to each other to cover a support structure  1 . The support structure  1  as referred to herein is a bridge support column, pier, pillar, pole, abutment or any other component used to support an overpass or a bridge, for example. The figures show a cover  2  in a circular form configured to cover a concrete support structure  1  that has a cylindrical shape. Although the figures show the cover in a circular form to cover a structure that has a cylindrical shape, the cover segments may be manufactured to cover support structures of any shape, such as rectangular, and the shape of the cover is not limited to that shown in the figures. 
     The cover is modular in that segments  10  are connected laterally (horizontally) together, and also vertically together (stacked on one another) to cover a support structure in situ. Preferably, the cover segments  10  are joined laterally in one vertical layer. The vertical layer is lifted so that another vertical layer of segments  10 , which have been joined laterally around the support  1 , can be connected underneath the lifted vertical layer. The lifted vertical layer is then lowered onto the lower vertical layer to connect in the vertical direction. The vertical layers of the stacked modular cover  1  are able to be continued to achieve a vertical stack of a desired overall height. 
     When cover segments  10  are connected using the below described connections, a uniform cover  2  is provided that is impermeable to a precipitation and resultant chemical mixture from the application of chemicals (e.g., road salts) added to a roadway. 
     Each of the cover segments  10  of the embodiments of the present invention may be shaped to correspond to the shape of the support structure.  FIG. 31 . shows three cover segments  10  that are each shaped in 120° segments to form a cover, when connected, around a support column  1  that has a circular cross section. However, the cover segments  10  may be shaped to form around a column or post with n (n is an integer) number of flat or curved faces. As an example, the cover segments may be shaped to form a cover around a support structure which has a cube, box, or square type structure that has 4 flat faces. 
     Another example of the shape of a support structure that the cover segments of the present invention may be shaped to cover is one that has two flat opposing sides and two curved opposing sides. In this example, a combination of linearly shaped cover segments and curve shaped cover segments are connected to form a cover according to the techniques herein described. Additionally, the present invention allows for the module connection of cover segments of varying lengths. For example, a cover segment  10  may be formed in a 180° segment or formed in a 90° segment (which has a length shorter than a 120° segment). 
     The outer surface  3  of each cover segment  10  may also be customized with a variety of profiles and textures for aesthetic appeal. For example, the outer surface may resemble brick, stone, or concrete. The outer surface  3  may be any color and preferably a color that suits its environment.  FIGS. 31 and 32B  show an example of a brick pattern on the outer surface  3  of each cover segment  10 . While explaining the following embodiment of the cover segment  10 , there are similarities to the above described embodiments, which are apparent, and therefore those descriptions are not repeated. 
     The cover segments  10  and components discussed above are also preferably molded using a single mold so that the cover segment is formed to be one piece that includes the lateral connectors  250  and vertical connecting techniques. Those having ordinary skill in the art also understand that the vertical and horizontal connecting components may be separately manufactured and added to a cover segment instead of using a single mold. Further, the cover segments of the below described embodiment ( FIGS. 24-30 ) use the jack assembly described above in the same manner to install the cover around the support column. 
     In  FIG. 31 , a total of six cover segments  10  are connected to form a cover  2 . Each cover segment has support legs  230 ,  231 . When a cover is constructed of a multiple cover segments  10  stacked on top of each other in the vertical direction the support legs  230 ,  231  of the lower cover segments support the cover segment  10  of the cover segments  10  above it. The support legs  230 ,  231  of the lowest cover segment contact the ground surface. As shown in the illustration of the front and back side of a 120° section cover segment  10 , the cover segment has three support legs including a middle support leg  230  and side support legs  231 . As shown in  FIG. 32A , each support leg  230 ,  231  is made of a double ribbed  233  design for strengthening characterizes, although other designs may be implemented to further improve the strength of the support legs  230 ,  231 . The support legs  230 ,  231  will be discussed in more detail below. 
     Each cover segment  10  has a top interconnector member  270  formed into and along the top edge of the cover segment. The top interconnector  270  extends inward and toward the support structure  1  to be covered at essentially a 90° angle with respect to the surface of the cover segment  10 . As shown in  FIGS. 32A and 32B , the top interconnector  270  has middle and side grooves  272 ,  271 , respectively, for engaging with and fitting into an indentation in each support foot  234 , which is explained in more detail below. Upon vertically connecting cover segments  10 , shown in  FIG. 31 , the top surface of the top interconnector  270  abuts with the lower surface of the bottom extension  280  member. 
     The bottom extension  280  is formed along and into the bottom edge of the cover segment  10 . The bottom extension extends inward and towards the support structure  1  to be covered at essentially a 90° angle with respect to the surface of the cover segment  10 . As shown in  FIG. 32A , the bottom extension has a downward extending flange  281 , which extends in a downward direction at essentially a 90° angle with respect to bottom extension  280 . As shown in  FIG. 32A , the downward extending flange  281  extends from the bottom extension  280  along the bottom extension  280 . In addition, the support legs  230 ,  231  include a support leg downward extending flange  282  extending off and downward from each support leg  230 ,  231 . 
     A plurality of stand offs  221 ,  222  are formed in each cover segment. The stand offs  221 ,  222  are formed as a pocket molded inwardly from the outer surface  3  of the cover segment  10  and as a result extend inwardly toward the support structure  1 . The stand offs  221 ,  222  function as a contacting point between the cover and the outer surface of the support structure  1  being covered. As shown in  FIG. 32A , middle stand offs  222  have a slightly different structure than side stand offs  221 . The middle stand offs  222  have a flange  227  extending in respective directions depending on the position of the middle stand off  222  relative to the cover segment  10 . For example, the middle stand off  222  in the center of the cover segment  10  has a flange  227  extending to the side, while the flange in the upper middle stand off  222  has a flange  227  extending in an upward direction. The flanges  227  are for packing and shipping the cover segments in a stacked position, which will be discussed in more detail below. The flanges  227  fit into and engage with an indentation  228  formed into each middle stand off  222 . Accordingly, as the cover segments  10  are stacked for shipping, each flange  227  engages with corresponding indentation  228 . 
     The side stand offs  221  have a stepped portion  223  formed into the pocket thereby forming a second pocket  225 . This feature is also for packing and shipping the cover segments  10  in a stacked position and will be explained in more detail below. Upon stacking for shipping, the stepped side corner  224  fits into the pocket  225  in a nested position. 
     Similar to other embodiments explained above, the cover segment  10  of this embodiment includes lateral connectors  251  and  252 . Upon assembly, the connector tab  251  fits inside and engages with the tab receiver  252  to form a mechanical connection. As shown in  FIGS. 32A and 32B , the tab receivers  252  and tab connectors  251  are formed to extend outward with respect to the surface of the cover  3 . As shown in  FIG. 31 , upon lateral connection of cover segments  10 , only the tab receiver  252  is visible when viewing the cover  2  from the outside. 
       FIG. 33D  shows a bottom perspective view of the cover segment  10 . As shown in  FIG. 33D , portions of the bottom extension  280  do not extend inward as far as other portions of the bottom extension  280 . For example, a portion denoted at  283  in  FIG. 33D , does not extend as far inward relative to the outer surface of the cover segment  10  as a middle portion of the bottom extension  280 . Further, on the side support legs  231 , the outer rib of the rib formation  233  is made to be smaller and not extend as far in the outward direction. In addition, as shown in  FIGS. 33A and 33C , each support leg  230 ,  231  includes an indentation  234 . Upon vertical connection, the edge of the middle groove  272  slides into and engages the indentation  234  of the middle support leg  230 . Similarly, upon vertical connection, the edges of the side grooves  271  slide into and engage the indentations  234  of the side support legs  231 , respectively.  FIG. 33D  also shows that the support legs  230 ,  231  are set back inwardly due to their formation off the bottom extension  280 . 
       FIG. 34B  is cross section along the line I-I of a cover formed of cover segments  10  stacked in the vertical direction shown in  FIG. 34A .  FIG. 35  is a detailed view of the connection between the middle groove  272  of top interconnector  270  and middle support leg  230 . Upon vertical connection of cover segments  10 , the support legs  230 ,  231  slide into the corresponding grooves  271 ,  272  in the top interconnector  272 . Accordingly, due to the set back formation of the support legs relative to outer surface of the cover  3  (shown in  FIG. 33D ), when vertically stacked, the support legs  230 ,  231  of the upper cover segment  10  are not seen from the outside. 
       FIG. 36  is a detailed view of the connection between a side groove  271  and a side support leg  231 . The side groove  271  has two edges  274  and  275  and the side groove  271  is formed so that one edge  274  of the side groove  271  is formed deeper into top interconnector  270  than another edge  275  of the side groove  271 . The support legs  230 ,  231  sliding into corresponding grooves  272 ,  271 , respectively, also function as a guide for radial alignment of the cover segments  10  as they are connected in the vertical direction. 
       FIG. 37B  is a cross section taken along line I-I of a top view of the cover of an embodiment of the present invention shown in  FIG. 37A .  FIG. 38  is a detailed view of the lateral connector  250  showing the mechanical connection of connector tab  251  and tab receiver  252 . Upon lateral connection of two cover segments, shown in the cross section view of  FIG. 38 , for example, the connector tab  251  fits into the tab receiver  252 . As shown in  FIG. 38 , the top side  256  of the connector tab  251  abuts the lower surface of the top concave portion  253  of the tab receiver  252 . The outward facing side  257  of the connector tab  251  abuts the inner surface of the outward facing side  259  of the tab receiver  252 . Further, the bottom side  258  of the connector tab  251  abuts the upper surface of the bottom concave portion  255  of the tab receiver  252 . A flexible fastener  54  is shown that is preferably a zip-type tie. The fastener  54  is placed around the tab receiver  252  and fastened to maintain the connection of the tab receiver  252  and connector tab  251 . The top surface of the top concave portion  253  and bottom surface of bottom concave portion  255  of the tab receiver  252  guide the fastener  54  and provides for a notch-type area for the fastener  54  to be placed. 
       FIG. 39  is an enlarged partial cross section view of a middle support leg  230  of an upper cover segment  10  engaging with the middle groove  272  of a lower cover segment  10 , upon stacking cover segments vertically. As shown, the middle groove  272  abuts the bottom extension  280  forming a flush and continuous seam where the upper cover segments and the lower cover segments contact each other. Further, the middle groove  272  abuts and engages the surface of the support foot indentation  234  of the middle support leg  230 . The indentation  234  have a corresponding shape so that the top interconnector  270  abuts and engages the indentation  234  in a flush manner. 
       FIG. 40B  is a cross section taken along line I-I of a top view of the cover  2  shown in  FIG. 40A .  FIG. 41  is an enlarged partial cross section view showing top interconnector  270  abutting bottom extension  280 . As described above, the abutment shown creates a seam around the circumference of the cover when the cover segments  10  are connected in a vertically and laterally. The top interconnector  270  abuts and contacts with the top interconnector  270  around the cover  2  in a flush and substantially even manner. As shown in  FIG. 41 , a downward extending flange extends downwards further than a thickness of the top interconnector  270 . As mentioned above, the downward extending flange  281  extends in a downward direction at essentially a 90° angle with respect to bottom extension  280 . The downward extending flange  281  prevents outside materials (e.g., snow, ice, dirt, chemicals, particulate) from getting between the cover  2  and the support column  1  at the horizontal seam. 
       FIG. 42  shows the stacking and nesting features of the cover segments  10  for delivering the cover segments  10 . As noted above, the middle stand offs  222  have a flange member  227  that extends outwards from the pocket (stand off). As shown in  FIG. 42 , the flange member  227  of the middle stand off  222  fits into the indentation of another middle stand off  222  when arranged and oriented correctly. With respect to the side stand offs  221 , each one has a stepped portion  223  thereby forming a smaller pocket  225 . Upon stacking for shipping, the stepped side corner  224  fits into the pocket  225  when correctly arranged, thereby nesting the side stand off partially within another. Further, when stacked, as a result of the nesting features shown in  FIG. 42 , the top interconnector  270  and bottom extension  280  are prevented from being compacted by the cumulative weight of stacked cover segments  10 . Therefore, the top interconnector  270  and bottom extension  280  retain their form while stacked so as not be bent or otherwise deformed by the force of adjacent cover segments in the stacked position. 
     An advantage of the present invention is that after installing the cover segments  10  to form a cover  2  around a support column  1 , a worker is able to remove one cover segment  10  of the cover  2  and leave the remaining cover segments installed.  FIG. 43  is an illustration of one cover segment  10  removed while the other cover segments  10  forming the cover remain installed. In other words, a worker can take one cover segment away from the cover to inspect the support structure  1 , for example, and the remaining cover segments  10  of the cover  2  are left in a stable condition. One cover segment  10  may be uninstalled without uninstalling adjacent or any other cover segments  10  of the cover  2 . 
     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.