Patent Description:
Flooding is an overflow of water from water bodies such as rivers, lakes, or oceans that submerges land that is usually dry. Flooding may occur as water overtops or breaks levees, resulting in some of that water escaping its usual boundaries.

In an areal flood, surface runoff (also known as overland flow) may occur as rainwater accumulates on flat or low lying land. This may be caused by saturated soil, by rain arriving more quickly than the soil can absorb it, or by impervious surfaces (roofs and pavements) sending their runoff to surrounding soil which cannot absorb all of it.

A barrier may be placed temporarily around a specific area to keep floodwater or water runoff from entering an area to be protected.

Various systems exist for creating barriers to protect homes, buildings or grounds against the risk of flooding and surface runoff, but also against overflows of sludge or industrial liquid.

In some systems, the barrier may be formed by assembling several modules together. The modules can be conveyed separately and assembled to each other on site. It is therefore possible to erect a protective barrier adapted to the specific area to be protected.

In the modular system described in <CIT>, it is proposed to load each module with incoming water, so that stability and anchoring are obtained naturally by the weight of the liquid entering and staying in each module. When not in use, each module may be reassembled into a stowed position, facilitating transport and storage.

However, the assembly and disassembly of the modules described in <CIT> between the stowed position and a working position is relatively complex. The number of components necessary for assembling each module is relatively high, resulting in time consuming assembly and disassembly processes. This can be especially detrimental when the modules are to be deployed in an emergency situation.

There is therefore a need for a simplified module for implementation in a protective barrier.

It is proposed a module according to claim <NUM> adapted to form a protective barrier against liquid runoff or flooding the module being movable between a working position and a stowed position, the module comprising:.

Thanks to this arrangement, it is proposed a simple and reliable construction for a module to be implemented in a protective barrier. In the working position, the module may be suitably stable and anchored to retain water on one side of the module. In the stowed position, the module may be a compact box, suitable for transport and storing. Moving the module from the stowed to the working position comprises moving the retention member and deploying the waterbag. No additional mounting or fixing of the waterbag is involved. The deployment of the module may be quick, and suited for emergency situations.

Further, the flexible waterbag can be very large and receive large quantities of liquid. The module can be very stable in the working position while remaining compact in the stowed position.

The following features, can be optionally implemented, separately or in combination one with the others.

The retention member may be at least rotatably mounted to the base. The retention member may be folded over the base when switching between the stowed position and the working position. The module is simple and quick to assemble or disassemble.

The base may comprises a pin configured to be clipped into an elongated hole of the retention member. Switching between the stowed and the working position may be a slide and pivot motion of the base relative to the retention member. The joint between the base and the retention member is simple and may be easily implemented.

The waterbag may be embedded with a reinforcement adapted to compress when the module is moved from the working position to the stowed position. The waterbag is not dismantled when stowing the module. The waterbag may be stored into the box simply by compressing the waterbag against the retention member. The reinforcement participates in the satisfactory folding of the waterbag into the module.

The waterbag may be cylindrical, and the reinforcement may be an arcuate member, preferably the reinforcement may be a spiral reinforcement. Such a shape and construction of the reinforcement improves the reliability of the folding of the waterbag into the box. In addition, such a shape and construction improves the rigidity of the waterbag.

The wall of the retention member may comprise v-shaped ribs adapted to come into contact with the liquid to be retained when the module is in the working position. Such ribs generate disturbances in the liquid and/or the wind coming into contact with the wall of the retention member, so that the force applied by the liquid and/or the wind is reduced. Such ribs also improve the rigidity of the wall, even if the wall is relatively thin and lightweight.

The module may comprise a grate fitted in the opening of the retention member. The grate may prevent objects carried by the liquid to pass through the opening of the retention member and flow into the waterbag.

The grate may be removably mounted to the opening, preferably the grate may be removed by rotation of the grate relative to the retention plate. It is therefore possible to remove the grate from the module, for access to the waterbag. The waterbag and/or the grate may be easily maintained and cleaned.

The module may further comprise a rear plate removably mounted to an extremity of the waterbag distant from the retention member, wherein the rear plate is contained in in the box when the module is in the stowed position. The rear plate may be used to connect various components such as sensors, valves and/or pipes. Further, the rear plate may be removed and an additional waterbag may be mounted to the module, forming an extension. The rear plate may be stored in the box when the module is in the stowed position. The rear plate may be fitted into the box as a result of the folding of the waterbag. No dismantling of the rear plate may be involved, and moving the module from the stowed to the working position remains quick and simple.

The module may further comprise a connecting plate, wherein: the connecting plate is mounted to the retention member to extend along a lateral side of the retention member when the module is in the working position, and the connecting plate is adapted to fit into a slot formed in the base when the module is in the stowed position. In the working position, the connecting plate enables multiple modules to be connected together and form a protective barrier. The use of a connecting plate, separate from the retention member, provides more flexibility in the orientation of neighboring modules as opposed to directly mounting a retention member to another. In the stowed position, the connecting plate may be slid into the slot for compact storage. Such storage may prevent loose components of the module from being lost during transport or storage.

In the working position, the connecting plate may be rotatably mounted about an axis parallel to the lateral side of the retention member and the module further comprises a pressure latch adapted to lock the connecting plate in a desired orientation. Such a mounting of the connecting plate provides flexibility in the orientation between two consecutive modules. In addition, the pressure latch enables flexibility in the strength of the interlock between the connecting plate and the retention member. A security system may be implemented.

The module may further comprise first sealing means extending along the lateral side of the retention member and configured to be compressed by the connecting plate, second sealing means extending along an edge of the connecting plate configured to be compressed against the ground, and/or third sealing means extending along an side of the retention member configured to be in contact with the ground. The connection between consecutive modules may be satisfactorily sealed, and water may be prevented from leaking across the protective barrier.

The module may further comprise at least one support leg, wherein the support leg is mounted to the base and the retention member when the module is in the working position; and the support leg is mounted to a lateral side of the retention member to extend along the lateral side of the retention member when the module is in the stowed position. The support leg improves the rigidity of the module when the module is in the working position. The support leg can also be used to manipulate the module (such as moving it during use). The support leg can be stored attached to the box, preventing loose components from being lost or separated from the rest of the module.

The module may further comprise a biasing mechanism mounted to the base, and the biasing mechanism may comprise an elastic member configured to bias the support leg towards the retention member. When no force is applied on the retention member (ie no liquid is acting on the retention member), the elastic member may generate a forward inclination of the retention member relative to the base. Such an inclination may prevent play due to the clearance between different parts. The inclination may also improve the sealing between the ground and the bottom side of the retention member. When liquid is acting on the retention member, the force of the liquid causes the support member to act against the elastic member. The retention member may be positioned to extend vertically relative to the ground and be securely held in place.

The support leg is symmetrical about a cross sectional plane of the support leg. The deployment and stowing of the module may be facilitated, as the support leg may be mounted in any orientation.

The base may comprise a weakened portion onto which the support leg is mounted. Thus, in case of an impact on the retention member, the weakened portion may break. The weakened portion provides damping and prevents the breakage of other parts of the module. The module may remain operational following an impact.

The module may further comprise at least anchoring hook arranged on a lateral side of the retention member and adapted to cooperate with an anchoring peg pushed into the ground and/or comprising a wall joint arranged on a lateral side of the retention member and adapted to fix the module to a wall or building.

In another aspect, it is proposed a protective barrier according to claim <NUM> against liquid runoffs or floods. comprising two or more modules, each module being movable between a working position and a stowed position, each module comprising:.

<FIG> illustrates a protective barrier <NUM> adapted to retain a liquid on one side of the protective barrier <NUM>. By liquid, it is understood essentially liquid, more or less viscous fluids, such as water, sludge, or industrial liquid. The protective barrier <NUM> can be used in a wide variety of situations, to protect a specific area, a building and the like.

As shown in <FIG>, the protective barrier <NUM> comprises a plurality of modules <NUM> connected together to form a cohesive unit. The modules <NUM> are independent from one another but can be assembled together to form the protective barrier <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, two neighboring modules <NUM> may be assembled in different orientations from each other. The barrier <NUM> formed with the modules <NUM> may be a linear barrier, or a convex or concave barrier <NUM>. The modules <NUM> may be orientated relative to one another depending on the specific area to be protected.

Each module <NUM> generally comprises a base <NUM>, a retention member <NUM> and a waterbag <NUM>. Each module <NUM> may adopt a working position and a stowed position.

<FIG> illustrates a module <NUM> in the working position, wherein water is retained at a front side A of the module <NUM>, and a rear side B is protected. The base <NUM> extends parallel to the ground to anchor and weigh the module <NUM> to the ground, so that the module <NUM> can be held in place even when liquid is applying pressure on the front side A of the module <NUM>. The retention member <NUM> extends vertically relative to the base <NUM> to retain liquid at the front side A of the module <NUM>. The waterbag <NUM> is configured to be filled with liquid, to participate in the stability and anchoring of the module <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a module <NUM> in the stowed position, such as during storage or transport. The module <NUM> can be disassembled and arranged to form a box. The box is formed by the base <NUM> and the retention member <NUM>, wherein the retention member <NUM> extends generally parallel to the base <NUM>. The box defines an interior cavity where the waterbag <NUM> may be stored. The waterbag <NUM> may be folded into the box, without dismantling the waterbag <NUM> from the module <NUM>. Other components of the module <NUM> may also be stored. Thus, the module <NUM> may form a compact and practical structure for storage and transport. Loss of components forming the module <NUM> during transport or storage may be prevented.

In the illustrated example, the retention member <NUM> encloses the base <NUM> in the stowed position. In other words the base <NUM> is fitted inside the retention member <NUM> when the module <NUM> is in the stowed position. However, alternatively, the base <NUM> may enclose the retention member <NUM> in the stowed position, and the retention member <NUM> may be fitted inside the base <NUM>.

Here, the retention member <NUM> is mounted to the base <NUM> via a slide and pivot joint. In other words, the articulation between the base <NUM> and the retention member <NUM> allows for rotation and linear motion in one direction. Change from the working position to the stowed position is a slide and pivot motion. The base <NUM> may be pulled out from the retention member <NUM>, and rotated relative to the retention member <NUM>. Such a motion is quick and simple, so that the module <NUM> may be promptly deployed in emergency situations.

The components of the module <NUM> will now be described in more detail.

As more visible on <FIG>, the base <NUM> is a hollow, boxed shaped structure. The base <NUM> comprises a bottom surface 14a destined to be in contact with the ground, two side walls 14b and a rear wall 14c extending vertically from the edges of the bottom surface 14a.

Here, the bottom surface 14a is paralleleipedic, in particular rectangular. Such a bottom surface 14a provides a good contact area between the base <NUM> and the ground. However, the bottom surface 14a may be square, or any other shape. In some examples, gripping means, such as rugosities, may protrude from the bottom surface 14a of the base <NUM> to improve friction between the base <NUM> and the ground.

The side walls 14b of the base <NUM> may provide mounting and support means for other components of the module <NUM>.

In particular, as more visible on <FIG>, a front extremity of each side wall 14b (distant from the rear wall 14c) comprises a pin <NUM> adapted to be clipped into elongated holes <NUM> formed in the retention member <NUM>. The pins <NUM> enable rotational motion of the base <NUM> relative to the retention member <NUM>. The rotational motion may be around an axis X1 extending across the base <NUM>, normal to the side walls 14b. The pin <NUM> may for example be inserted into an orifice of the side wall 14b and locked onto the base <NUM> by a nut. Such a pin <NUM> may be easily fixed to the side wall 14b after the base <NUM> is manufactured, for example by injection molding or thermoforming.

Each side wall 14b may also comprise a recess <NUM> adapted to receive a support leg <NUM> of the module <NUM> when the module <NUM> is in the working position. In some examples, an insert <NUM> may be provided in the recess <NUM> to increase the rigidity of the side wall 14b around the recess <NUM>. The insert <NUM> may protect the base <NUM> from damage in case of an impact on the module <NUM>. The base <NUM> may remain intact, and the insert <NUM> may be easily replaced.

Further, each side wall 14b may comprise a storage hole <NUM> adapted to receive a protrusion of the support leg <NUM> when the module <NUM> is in the stowed position. The storage hole <NUM> may be aligned with a storage hole <NUM> formed in the retention member <NUM>. The protrusion may thus extend through the base <NUM> and the retention member <NUM>, participating in holding the module <NUM> in the stowed position.

The rear wall 14c of the base <NUM> may comprise a slot <NUM> adapted to receive a connecting plate <NUM>. The connecting plate <NUM> may be stored in the box when the module <NUM> is in the stowed position by sliding the connecting plate <NUM> into the slot <NUM>. Storing the connecting plate <NUM> in the box prevents the connecting plate <NUM> from being lost during storage or transport. Further, the slot <NUM> provides quick access to the connecting plate <NUM>, participating in the fast assembly of the protective barrier <NUM>. The slot <NUM> may also provide a handle for sliding and pivoting the base <NUM> relative to the retention member <NUM>. In some examples, a clip may be provided to secure the connecting plate <NUM> once inserted in slot <NUM>, preventing unintended removal of the connecting plate <NUM> during transport.

In addition, ribs <NUM> may extend across the base <NUM>, between the two side walls 14b. The ribs <NUM> may provide support for the waterbag <NUM> when the module <NUM> is in the working position. The waterbag <NUM> may extend from the front of the base <NUM> (where the retention member <NUM> is mounted) to the rear wall 14c when the module <NUM> is in the working position and be supported by the ribs <NUM>.

The base <NUM> may be formed in a strong plastic material, for example HDPE (High Density PolyEthylene), PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride), PP (Polypropylene), ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) or equivalent. The base <NUM> may be formed by injection molding, thermoforming or any other suitable manufacturing process. The manufacture of the base <NUM> may therefore be relatively cheap and repeatable. The base <NUM> may be a sturdy and solid part while remaining relatively lightweight. The pins <NUM> and the insert <NUM> may be inserted after molding;.

The retention member <NUM> is also a hollow box shaped structure comprising a wall <NUM>, destined to come into contact with the liquid to be retained, an opening <NUM> for letting liquid pass therethrough, and four sides 16a, 16b, 16c extending vertically from the edges of the wall <NUM>.

The wall <NUM> is a thin structure comprising v-shaped ribs. In the illustrated example, the wall <NUM> is formed by a series of v-shaped cross sections. However, the wall <NUM> could also comprise a smooth surface and the v-shaped ribs could protrude from the smooth surface. The v-shaped ribs are adapted to come into contact with the liquid to be retained, to generate disturbances in the liquid and/or the wind coming into contact with the wall <NUM>, so that the force applied by the liquid and/or the wind is reduced.

The opening <NUM> is formed on a lower portion of the wall <NUM> of the retention member <NUM>, wherein the lower portion of the wall <NUM> is a portion neighboring the ground when the module <NUM> is in the working position. An upper portion of the wall <NUM>, opposite the lower portion, is a solid surface for providing rigidity to the retention member <NUM>. The opening <NUM> illustrated is a circular opening, but the opening <NUM> may be any other shape.

Here, the four sides 16a, 16b, 16c of the retention member <NUM> enclose the base <NUM> when the module <NUM> is in the stowed position. The base <NUM> may be received inside the volume defined by the retention member <NUM> in the stowed position, forming a compact box (see <FIG>).

The lateral sides 16a of the retention member <NUM>, defined as the sides extending vertically from the ground when the module <NUM> is in the working position, provide mounting and/or storage means for other components of the module <NUM>.

Each bottom extremity of the two lateral sides 16a (extremities neighboring the ground when the module <NUM> is in the working position) comprises the elongated hole <NUM> adapted to cooperate with the pin <NUM> mounted to the side wall 14b of the base <NUM>. The elongated holes <NUM> enable rotational and linear motion in one direction of the base <NUM> relative to the retention member <NUM>. The elongated holes <NUM> participate in the slide and pivot motion of the base <NUM> relative to the retention member <NUM>. The elongated holes <NUM> are simple to manufacture, in particular when the retention member <NUM> is injection molded or thermoformed.

Each lateral side 16a may also comprise a mounting hole <NUM> and storage holes <NUM> destined to cooperate with a support leg <NUM>. The support leg <NUM> may be screwed to the mounting hole <NUM> to provide rigidity to the module <NUM> in the working position. The support leg <NUM> may be clipped and/or screwed to the storage holes <NUM> for storage when the module <NUM> is in the stowed position.

In addition, a groove <NUM> is formed in each lateral side 16a, to extend along the lateral side 16a. A connecting plate <NUM> may be inserted into the groove <NUM>, to extend along the lateral side 16a of the module12. Another module <NUM> may then be connected to the connecting plate <NUM>.

The bottom and top sides 16b, 16c of the retention member <NUM>, respectively defined as the side in proximity to the ground and the side distant from the ground when the module <NUM> is in the working position, may also comprise mounting and securing means, in particular for the connecting plate <NUM>. As will be described later, a pin <NUM> may extend from the bottom side 16c, parallel to the lateral sides 16b, to cooperate with the connecting plate <NUM> and form a pivot joint with the connecting plate <NUM>. A pressure latch <NUM> may be mounted on the top side 16b of the retention member <NUM>, to lock the connecting plate <NUM> in place. The connecting plate <NUM> may be pivoted in a direction parallel to the lateral sides 16a of the retention member <NUM>, and then locked in place when the connecting plate <NUM> is in a desired orientation.

In some examples, each side 16a, 16b, 16c of the retention member <NUM> may comprise handles. The handles may enable easy manipulation of the module <NUM> during storage and transport. The handles may also be used to switch the module <NUM> between the working and the stowed positions.

The retention member <NUM> may be formed in a strong plastic material, for example HDPE (High Density PolyEthylene), PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride), PP (Polypropylene), ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) or equivalent. The retention member <NUM> may be formed by injection molding, thermoforming, or any other suitable process. The manufacture of the retention member <NUM> may also be cheap and repeatable. The overall module <NUM> may remain relatively lightweight. Mounting and securing means, such as a thread in mounting hole <NUM>, pin <NUM> and pressure latch <NUM> may be fixed to the retention member <NUM> after molding.

The waterbag <NUM> is a flexible structure fixed to the retention member <NUM> to surround the opening <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, the waterbag <NUM> may be deployed when the module <NUM> is in the working position, to receive water passing though the opening <NUM>. The waterbag <NUM> may extend along the base <NUM>, for example by being supported by the ribs <NUM> formed in the base <NUM>. The waterbag <NUM> provides stability and anchoring to the module <NUM> in the working position. As illustrated in <FIG>, the waterbag <NUM> may be pushed against the retention member <NUM> to be fitted inside the box. When the module <NUM> is switched from the working to the stowed position, the waterbag <NUM> may be compressed towards the retention member <NUM>. Fitting the waterbag <NUM> into the box is simple, and does not require dismantling of the waterbag <NUM> from the retention member <NUM>.

In the illustrated example, the waterbag <NUM> is cylindrical. Such a shape enables for reliable folding of the waterbag <NUM> when the module <NUM> is moved to the stowed position. Alternatively, the waterbag <NUM> may be any other shape suited to surround the opening <NUM> and be stored inside the box.

The waterbag <NUM> may be embedded with one or more reinforcements <NUM>. The reinforcement <NUM> may for example be a metallic wire providing rigidity to the waterbag <NUM>. The reinforcement <NUM> participates in the satisfactory folding of the waterbag <NUM> into the module <NUM>. When the waterbag <NUM> is cylindrical, the reinforcement <NUM> may be an arcuate member, for example a spiral reinforcement, to further improve rigidity and reliable folding of the waterbag <NUM>.

A rear plate <NUM> may be mounted on the rear end of the waterbag <NUM>, distant from the retention member <NUM>. The rear plate <NUM> may provide a communication area and options for implementing to the module <NUM>. For example, the rear plate <NUM> may be used for fitting valves, pipes, or sensors. The rear plate <NUM> may be removably mounted to the rear end of the waterbag <NUM>, so that the rear plate <NUM> may be removed and the rear end may be connected to another waterbag <NUM>, providing an extension to the module <NUM>.

As illustrated on <FIG>, the rear plate <NUM> may be pushed towards the retention member <NUM> when the waterbag <NUM> is compressed. The rear plate <NUM> may be stored inside the box when the module <NUM> is in the stowed position, as a result of compressing the waterbag <NUM>. The rear plate <NUM> does not need to be dismantled from the waterbag <NUM> when the module is switched from the working position to the stowed position.

In some examples, the waterbag <NUM> and the rear plate <NUM> may be mounted to the retention member <NUM> and to the rear end of the waterbag <NUM> respectively by encircling. Encircling may consist in a metallic strip firmly constraining the waterbag <NUM> to the retention member <NUM> and the rear plate <NUM> to the waterbag <NUM>.

As visible on <FIG> and <FIG>, a grate <NUM> may be mounted to the retention member <NUM> to surround the opening <NUM> of the retention member <NUM>. In the illustrated example, the grate <NUM> is a circular or discoid grate <NUM> fitted into the opening <NUM>. The grate <NUM> prevents objects carried by the liquid to pass through the opening <NUM> of the retention member <NUM> and flow into the waterbag <NUM>.

The grate <NUM> may be rotatably mounted so as to be removed by rotation of the grate <NUM> relative to the retention member <NUM>. For example, the grate <NUM> may be removed by a quarter turn of the grate <NUM> relative to the retention member <NUM>. Removal of the grate <NUM> gives access to the waterbag <NUM>, for example for cleaning purposes. In some examples, the grate <NUM> may comprise a locking mechanism to prevent accidental removal of the grate <NUM> when the module <NUM> is in the working position. The locking mechanism may be released by an adapted tool.

The grate <NUM> may comprise a series of v-shaped bars. Each bar may be separated by a space for letting water flow through the opening <NUM>. A bottom of each "v" may be oriented towards the waterbag <NUM> when the grate <NUM> is mounted to the retention member <NUM>. Thus, the v-shapes may participate in the draining of the waterbag <NUM> after use.

Alternatively, the grate <NUM> may be formed as a continuous surface. The cross section of the grate <NUM> may be a continuous series of "v" shapes. Apertures <NUM> may be formed at the bottom of each "v" (oriented towards the waterbag <NUM> when the grate <NUM> is mounted to the retention member <NUM>) to allow water through the opening <NUM>. A top portion of the grate <NUM> may comprise small holes to evacuate the air trapped in the waterbag <NUM> whilst water flows through apertures <NUM>. The filling of the waterbag <NUM> may be improved, and any buoyancy of the waterbag <NUM> may be avoided.

As illustrated, the module <NUM> may also comprise one or more support legs <NUM>. In the illustrated example, the module <NUM> comprises two support legs <NUM>. The support legs <NUM> may be bars adapted to extend between the base <NUM> and the retention member <NUM> when the module <NUM> is in the working position. For example, a support bar <NUM> may be provided on either side of the waterbag <NUM>. The support legs <NUM> provide additional rigidity to the module <NUM> in the working position. The support legs <NUM> are also adapted to be attached to the lateral sides 16a of the retention member <NUM> to extend along the lateral side 16a. The support legs <NUM> may be secured to the box when the module <NUM> is in the stowed position, preventing loss of the support legs <NUM> during storage or transport.

In the illustrated example, a first extremity of each support leg <NUM> comprises a protrusion adapted to be clipped into the recess <NUM> formed in the side wall 14b of the base <NUM> and into the storage holes <NUM>, <NUM> formed in the base <NUM> and the retention member <NUM>. When the module <NUM> is in the working position, the protrusion may be clipped into the recess <NUM>. When the module <NUM> is in the stowed position, the protrusion may extend through the retention member <NUM> and the base <NUM> (via storage holes <NUM>, <NUM>). The protrusion may participate in locking the module <NUM> in the stowed position.

The opposite extremity of the support leg <NUM> may comprise a screw adapted for fixing the support leg <NUM> to the mounting hole <NUM> of the retention member <NUM> and for being inserted into another storage hole <NUM> formed in the retention member <NUM>. The screw fixing provides secure mounting of the support leg <NUM>.

For example, support legs <NUM> can be made of light metal, such as aluminum, or strong plastic material, for example HDPE (High Density PolyEthylene), PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride), PP (Polypropylene), ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) or equivalent. Support legs <NUM> may be cheap and easily sourced, without compromising the overall weight of the module <NUM>;.

As more visible on <FIG>, each module <NUM> may also comprise a connecting plate <NUM>. The connecting plate <NUM> may be mounted to a lateral side 16a of the module <NUM> to extend along the lateral side 16a when the module <NUM> is in the working position. The connecting plate <NUM> may be used to attach the module <NUM> to another module <NUM>. The connecting plate <NUM> may also provide an interface for mounting sensors and/or valves. Sensor/valve integration or replacement may be facilitated when they are mounted to the connecting plate <NUM>.

The connecting plate <NUM> is a generally flat plate. However, alternatively, the connecting plate <NUM> may comprise v-shaped ribs adapted to come into contact with the liquid to be retained, to generate disturbances in the liquid and/or the wind coming into contact with the wall <NUM>, so that the force applied by the liquid and/or the wind is reduced.

The connecting plate <NUM> is mounted to the lateral side 16a of the retention member <NUM> to be rotatable in a direction Z1 parallel to the lateral side 16a. Modules <NUM> may be connected to form a barrier <NUM> adapted to the specific area to be protected. When two modules <NUM> are joined together by the connecting plate <NUM>, there is a first rotational articulation in direction Z1 parallel to the lateral side 16a of a first module <NUM> and a second rotational articulation in direction Z2 parallel to the lateral side 16a of a second module <NUM>. The double articulation provides flexibility in the orientation of the first module <NUM> relative to the second module <NUM>.

As visible on <FIG>, a bottom surface of the connecting plate <NUM> (destined to be close to the ground) comprises a hole <NUM> in which can be inserted in the pin <NUM> protruding from the bottom side 16b of the retention member <NUM> to form a pivot joint with the retention member <NUM>. Further, the connecting plate <NUM> comprises rounded edges <NUM> adapted to be inserted in the grooves <NUM> formed in either lateral side 16a of the retention member <NUM>. The pivot joint and rounded edges enable rotation of the connecting plate <NUM> in the direction Z1 parallel to the lateral sides 16a. The angle formed by two retention members <NUM> of two connected modules <NUM> to be comprised between <NUM>° and <NUM>°.

As shown on <FIG>, a top surface of the connecting plate <NUM>, opposite to the bottom surface, may comprise a pin <NUM> configured to engage with the pressure latch <NUM> on the top side 16c of the retention member <NUM>. The pressure latch <NUM> may engage with the pin <NUM>, to lock the connecting plate <NUM> in a desired orientation. The use of such a pressure latch <NUM> enables the locking of neighboring modules <NUM> to be more or less secure, so that a security system may be put in place. For example, the connecting plate <NUM> may be set to give way if the force exerted by incoming liquid exceeds a threshold.

As shown in <FIG>, the connecting plate <NUM> may also be inserted and clipped into the slot <NUM> formed in the base <NUM> when the module <NUM> is in the stowed position. The connecting plate <NUM> may be stored in the box formed by the base <NUM> and the retention member <NUM> when the module <NUM> is in the stowed position. As mentioned above, storing the connecting plate <NUM> in the box prevents the connecting plate <NUM> from being lost during storage or transport.

The connecting plate <NUM> may be formed in a strong plastic material, for example HDPE (High Density PolyEthylene), PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride), PP (Polypropylene), ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) or equivalent. The connecting plate <NUM> may be formed by injection molding, thermoforming, or any other suitable process.

In some examples, the module <NUM> may also comprise spacer. The spacer may cooperate with the pins <NUM> protruding from the bottom surface of two modules <NUM> intended to be fixed next to each other. The spacer may be slotted into the pins <NUM> to maintain a desired amount of space between the two modules <NUM> prior to mounting the connecting plate <NUM>.

Alternatively, two neighboring modules <NUM> may be directly connected to one another. For example, a groove in a lateral side of a first module may be adapted to cooperate with a tongue formed in a lateral side of a second module.

Anchoring means may be provided on either side of the module <NUM>. In the example of <FIG>, a hook <NUM> may be fixed to each lateral side 16a of the retention member <NUM>. An anchoring peg <NUM> may be passed through the hook <NUM> and be pushed into the ground. The use of the hook <NUM> may improve the insertion of the peg <NUM> into the ground, participating in the satisfactory anchoring of the module <NUM>.

Alternatively or in addition, a wall joint may be mounted to either side of the retention member <NUM>, to allow fixing of the module <NUM> to a wall or building.

First sealing means <NUM> may extend within each groove <NUM> extending along the lateral sides 16a of the retention member <NUM>. The first sealing means <NUM> may for example be rubber strips inserted into the grooves <NUM> formed in the lateral sides 16a. The first sealing means <NUM> may be compressed when a connecting place <NUM> is inserted in the groove <NUM>, providing suitable sealing. Leakage of water between the retention member <NUM> and the connecting plate <NUM> may be prevented.

In addition, second sealing means <NUM> may extend along the bottom surface of the connecting plate <NUM>, destined to be in contact with the ground when the module <NUM> is in the working position. The second sealing means <NUM> may be a rubber strip fixed to the bottom surface of the connecting plate <NUM>. The second sealing means <NUM> prevent leakage of water to the rear side B of the module <NUM>. The connection between modules <NUM> may be watertight.

In some examples, third sealing means may also extend along the bottom side 16b of the retention member <NUM>. The third sealing means may also be a rubber strip extending along the bottom side 16b. The third sealing means prevent leakage of water from the front side A of module <NUM> to the rear side B of module <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate an alternative embodiment for the module <NUM> described above.

As shown on <FIG>, in this embodiment, the support leg <NUM> may be symmetrical about a cross sectional plane of the support leg <NUM>. Each extremity of the support leg <NUM> may comprise a pin <NUM>. In the working position, one pin <NUM> may be fitted to the mounting hole <NUM> formed in the lateral side 16a of the retention member <NUM> and another pin <NUM> may be inserted into an L shaped slot <NUM> formed in the side wall 14b of the base <NUM>. In the stowed position, each pin <NUM> may be fitted into storage holes <NUM> of the retention member <NUM>. The deployment and stowing of the module <NUM> may be facilitated, as the support leg <NUM> may be mounted in any orientation.

As more visible <FIG>, the L shaped slot <NUM> comprises a vertical portion <NUM> extending from the edge of the side wall <NUM> towards the bottom surface 14a of the base <NUM>. The vertical portion <NUM> is adapted to the insertion of the pin <NUM> of the support leg <NUM> when assembling the module <NUM> in the working position. The borders of the vertical portion <NUM> may comprise a chamfer <NUM> to facilitate insertion of the pin <NUM> into the vertical portion <NUM>.

The L shaped slot <NUM> further comprises a horizontal portion <NUM> extending from the vertical portion <NUM> towards the rear wall 14c of the base <NUM>. The horizontal portion <NUM> enables the pin <NUM> to translate parallel to the side wall 14c. The pin <NUM> may be elastically solicited by a biasing mechanism <NUM>, as will be described in more detail below.

Further, the side wall 14b of the base <NUM> may comprise a main panel <NUM> and adjacent panel <NUM> extending parallel to the main panel <NUM> in the area where the support leg <NUM> is to be mounted to the base <NUM>. The L shaped slot <NUM> is formed on adjacent panel <NUM>. The adjacent panel <NUM> may be of a smaller thickness than the main panel <NUM>. The adjacent panel <NUM> therefore defines a weakened portion <NUM> of the side wall 14b. In case of an impact on the retention member <NUM>, such as a tree trunk hitting the retention member <NUM>, the weakened area <NUM> may break under the sudden load. The breakage provides damping and prevents damaging other parts of the module <NUM>. Thus, the module <NUM> may still be operational following the impact.

The main panel <NUM> and adjacent panel <NUM> may define a recess <NUM> into which the biasing mechanism <NUM> may be mounted. The recess <NUM> may be closed at its top surface (opposite the bottom wall 14a) by a lid <NUM> to protect the biasing mechanism <NUM>.

Turning to <FIG>, the biasing mechanism <NUM> comprises a spring <NUM>, a slider <NUM> and a piston <NUM>.

The spring <NUM> presses against an abutment surface <NUM> formed at the rear end of the recess <NUM> and extends towards the L shaped slot <NUM>. In the working position of the module <NUM>, the spring may exert a force on the pin <NUM> of the support leg <NUM>, thereby acting on the support leg <NUM> and, by extension, the retention member <NUM>. When no force is applied on the retention member <NUM> (i.e. no liquid is acting on the retention member <NUM>), the spring <NUM> may generate a forward inclination of the retention member <NUM> relative to the base <NUM>. Such an inclination may prevent play due to the clearance between different parts. The inclination may also improve the sealing between the ground and the bottom side 16b of the retention member <NUM> (third sealing means). When liquid is acting on the retention member <NUM>, the force provided by the liquid causes the support member <NUM> to push against the spring <NUM>. The pin <NUM> may slide along horizontal portion <NUM> of the L shaped slot <NUM>, securing the support leg <NUM> in the horizontal portion <NUM> of the L shaped slot <NUM> and positioning the retention member <NUM> vertical to the ground (<FIG>).

The slider <NUM> may be a rod extending through the spring <NUM> to maintain the spring <NUM> in position. An opening <NUM> may be provided in the abutment surface <NUM> to enable the slider <NUM> to protrude from the recess <NUM> when the spring <NUM> is compressed under the action of the pin <NUM> (<FIG>).

The piston <NUM> comprises a front surface <NUM> configured to contact the pin <NUM> of the support leg <NUM> and a rear surface <NUM> configured to contact the spring <NUM>. The piston <NUM> may slide within the recess <NUM> due to the forces exerted by the pin <NUM> or the spring <NUM>. The piston <NUM> provides an interface between the pin <NUM> and the spring <NUM>. The lid <NUM> and the bottom wall 14a of the base <NUM> may comprise ridges <NUM> configured to stop the movement of the piston <NUM> under the action of the spring <NUM>. In addition, the piston <NUM> may comprise a stopper <NUM> extending from the front surface <NUM> of the piston <NUM>. The stopper <NUM> provides a bearing surface for the pin <NUM>, preventing its accidental removal from the vertical portion <NUM> of L shape slot <NUM> in the working position (<FIG>).

It should be noted that, in the illustrated embodiment, the biasing mechanism <NUM> comprises a spring <NUM>. However, the biasing mechanism <NUM> could comprise any other elastic member <NUM> adapted to exert bias the pin <NUM> of the support member <NUM> towards the retention member <NUM>. For example, the elastic member <NUM> may be shape memory foam or a hydraulic piston. <NUM>) Deployment.

In the following, a method for moving the module <NUM> from the stowed position to the working position will be described in more detail.

Initially, the module <NUM> is in the stowed position. The retention member <NUM> and the base <NUM> form a box. In particular, the box is formed by the base <NUM> being fitted into the retention member <NUM>. The waterbag <NUM> is compressed inside the box. The support legs <NUM> are clipped on either lateral side 16a of the retention member <NUM>. The connecting plate <NUM> is stored in the slot <NUM> formed in the rear wall 14c of the base <NUM>. The grate <NUM> may be attached to the opening <NUM> of the retention member <NUM>. The components of the module <NUM> are attached to or stored in the box, preventing loss of components and facilitating storage and transport.

When the module <NUM> is to be used, the connecting plate <NUM> is removed from the slot <NUM> in the rear wall 14c of the base <NUM>, by sliding the connecting plate <NUM> out of the slot <NUM>. The connecting plate <NUM> may be inserted into one of the grooves <NUM> formed in the lateral sides 16a of the retention member <NUM>. The hole <NUM> on the bottom of the connecting plate <NUM> may engage with the pin <NUM> extending from the bottom side 16b of the retention member <NUM>. The connecting plate <NUM> may then be oriented in the desired orientation, depending on the shape of the modular barrier <NUM> to be erected. When the desired orientation is obtained, the pressure latch <NUM> may be engaged with the pin <NUM> formed on the top surface 16c of the connecting plate <NUM>, to lock the connecting plate <NUM> in place.

The base <NUM> may be pulled out from the retention member <NUM>. In particular, a user may grab the slot <NUM> formed in the rear wall 14c of the base <NUM> and rotate the base <NUM> relative to the retention member <NUM>. When the retention member <NUM> extends vertically relative to the base <NUM>, the base <NUM> may be pushed towards the retention member <NUM> until the pins <NUM> on each side wall 14b of the base <NUM> clip into the elongated holes <NUM> on each the lateral sides 16a of the retention member <NUM>.

The support legs <NUM> may be unclipped from either lateral side 16a of the retention member <NUM>. An extremity of each support leg <NUM> may be clipped into the recess <NUM> formed in the side walls 14b of the base <NUM> and the other extremity of each support leg <NUM> may be screwed to the mounting hole <NUM> formed in the lateral side 16a of the retention member <NUM>.

In the alternative embodiment, the pins <NUM> of the support legs may be removed from the lateral sides 16a of the retention member <NUM>. A pin <NUM> may be inserted into the mounting hole <NUM> formed in the lateral side 16a of the retention member <NUM> and a pin <NUM> may be inserted into the L shaped slot <NUM>.

The waterbag <NUM> may be pulled out from the retention member <NUM>, to extend along the base <NUM>. It should be noted that no additional mounting of the waterbag <NUM> is involved.

The module <NUM> may be connected to another module <NUM> by the connecting plate <NUM> to form a protective barrier <NUM>, by joining the connecting plate <NUM> to a lateral side 16a of a second module <NUM>. Alternatively or in addition, the module <NUM> may be anchored to the ground by the anchoring means or mounted to a wall or building by the mounting point.

Claim 1:
A module (<NUM>) adapted to form a protective barrier (<NUM>) against liquid runoff or flooding, the module (<NUM>) being movable between a working position and a stowed position, the module (<NUM>) comprising :
- a base (<NUM>) adapted to anchor the module (<NUM>) to the ground;
- a retention member (<NUM>) comprising a wall (<NUM>) adapted to retain liquid and an opening (<NUM>) adapted to let liquid pass therethrough, wherein the retention member (<NUM>) is mounted to the base (<NUM>) to:
∘ extend vertically relative to the base (<NUM>) when the module (<NUM>) is in the working position, and
∘ extend parallel to the base (<NUM>) to form a box with the base (<NUM>) when the module (<NUM>) is in the stowed position;
characterised in that said module (<NUM>) furhter comprises
- a flexible waterbag (<NUM>) fixed to the retention member (<NUM>), wherein
∘ the waterbag (<NUM>) is supported by the base (<NUM>) and adapted to receive liquid passing though the opening (<NUM>) when the module (<NUM>) is in the working position, and
∘ the waterbag (<NUM>) is contained in the box when the module (<NUM>) is in the stowed position.