APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR COVERING A BOLLARD

Abstract

An apparatus for covering a bollard includes a cushioned panel having opposing first and second side edges, the panel including a cushion member and an outer covering at least partially covering the cushion member; a connection device for connecting the first and second side edges together; and, the cushioned panel having an open condition and a wrapped condition, the open condition including the cushioned panel being substantially planar and the wrapped condition including the first side edge being connected with 0 the second side edge by the connection device and the cushioned panel forming a sleeve sized and configured to surround a bollard.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to protecting devices, and more particularly to an apparatus and method for protecting vehicles against damage from bollards.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Establishments designed to accommodate relatively slow moving vehicular traffic, such as fast food drive-throughs, bank drive-throughs and carwashes, are frequently provided with bollards—barriers, posts and similar structures to control or direct traffic in the proper path and to prevent vehicles from being driven onto landscaping or into a building or oncoming traffic. Although bollards provide a measure of protection for the establishment's property, vehicles that come in contact with a bollard often sustain paint or structural damage. Even though usually the driver's fault, a measure of ill will thereafter associated with the damage may very well keep the driver from ever again doing business with the bollard owner. What is needed is a device to retard or prevent damaging contact from occurring between a vehicle and a bollard.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Generally speaking, an apparatus is provided for covering a bollard, the apparatus being sized and configured for application to a variety of differently configured barriers.

An apparatus for covering a bollard includes a cushioned panel having opposing first and second side edges, the panel including a cushion member and an outer covering at least partially covering the cushion member; a connection device for connecting the first and second side edges together; and, the cushioned panel having an open condition and a wrapped condition, the open condition including the cushioned panel being substantially planar and the wrapped condition including the first side edge being connected with the second side edge by the connection device and the cushioned panel forming a sleeve sized and configured to surround a bollard.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a device for preventing or limiting damage to a vehicle from contact with a bollard.

Other object and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of the preferred embodiment.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view an apparatus 10 for covering a bollard 5 in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a plan view of apparatus 10 in its open condition 18.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the apparatus 10 of FIG. 2 taken along the lines 3-3 and viewed in the direction of the arrows.

FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of a portion of the apparatus 10 of FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the apparatus 10 of FIG. 1 taken along the lines 5-5 and viewed in the direction of the arrows.

FIG. 5a is a view of the portion of the apparatus of FIG. 4 in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a plan view of apparatus 10 showing cushion member 14 in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of apparatus 10 of FIG. 3 showing cushion member 14 in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the apparatus 10 of FIG. 1 taken along the lines 8-8 and viewed in the direction of the arrows.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view an apparatus 60 for covering a bollard in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the apparatus 60 of FIG. 9 taken along the lines 10-10 and viewed in the direction of the arrows.

FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of a portion of the apparatus 60 of FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 is a plan view of an apparatus 90 for covering a bollard in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is top view of the apparatus 90 of FIG. 12.

FIG. 14 is a top view of the apparatus 90 of FIG. 12 showing a connection device in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a side, cross-sectional view of an apparatus 120 for covering a bollard in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the apparatus 10 of FIG. 1 shown applied to a horizontal barrier.

FIG. 17 is an elevational view of an apparatus 140 for covering a bollard in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 18 is an enlarged side view of first connector element 142 of the apparatus 140 of FIG. 17.

FIG. 19 is a rear elevational view of an apparatus 150 for covering a bollard in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of an apparatus 160 for covering a bollard in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of an apparatus 170 for covering a bollard in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF THE SELECTED EMBODIMENT

For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated herein and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended. Any alterations and further modifications in the described processes, systems or devices, and any further applications of the principles of the invention as described herein, are contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates.

The present invention is contemplated for use with bollards which, as used herein, are barriers, posts and similar structures positioned to control or direct traffic in the proper path and to prevent vehicles from being driven onto landscaping or into a building or oncoming traffic. Bollards are often made of a metal such as steel or of concrete. In one form, bollards comprise one or more rigid posts arranged across a road or path to close the road or path to certain vehicles. For example, two bollards can be mounted close enough to each other to form a barrier to automobile traffic, but far enough apart to permit the passage of special-purpose vehicles (e.g. carts or bicycles).

Referring to FIG. 1, a single bollard 5 is shown positioned proximal a drive-in window 6 to keep an approaching driver in the desired roadway 8 and from getting too close to the building 9 and drive-in window 6. To the bollard 5 is applied an apparatus 10 for covering a bollard and for protecting against damage to a vehicle in accordance with the present invention.

Referring to FIGS. 2-4, apparatus 10 in its open state forms a generally planar, cushioned and rectangular panel 11 with opposing side edges 12 and 13. Apparatus 10 generally includes a cushion member 14, an outer covering 15 and a connection device 16 for connecting one edge 12 of panel 11 to opposing edge 13 to form a protective sleeve 17, as shown in FIG. 1. Cushion member 14 is a single, generally rectangular sheet of cushion material, such as and without limitation, a block of foam or foam-like material and referred to hereinafter simply as foam. Foams are available in a variety of forms and can contain plastics, polymers, elastomers, thermoset plastics, thermoset resins, thermoplastics, metal, metal alloy and/or ceramic materials. Such foams can comprise, by example and without limitation, ABS, acrylics, epoxy resins, fluoropolymers, synthetic rubbers or elastomers, nitrile rubber, plastics or elastomers, water-based and water-borne resins and latex materials. Generally, the foam is selected according to its various properties—bulk density, tensile strength, tensile modulus, elongation, tear strength, and use temperature—to provide good wear and weather resistance in view of its intended use location and possible vehicular abuse, and to provide satisfactory resistance to damage to a vehicle should a low-speed impact occur, as described herein.

The foam sheet forming cushion member 14 generally forms a plurality of mutually parallel, trapezoidal sections 21 connected serially to each other along their base edges, which creates between each pair of adjacent trapezoidal sections 21 a trapezoidal valley 22, and a connecting strip 23. In one embodiment, cushion member 14 starts as a single, rectangular block of foam with sections cut therefrom to form the valleys 22. The foam block is between about 1.2 and 3.0 inches thick, has a density between about 2.5 and 6.0 lb/ft³, and has an ILD between about 30 and 90 pounds. ILD (Indentation Load Deflection) is a measure of how much force it takes to compress the foam 25% of its thickness. Methods for measuring ILD are found to vary slightly. Here, ILD is measured using a plate 8 inches square depressed centrally on a foam sample at least 24 inches square. Preferably, the thickness of the foam block used for cushion member 14 is about 1.5 inches, the density is about 3.0 lb/ft³ or greater, and the ILD is about 40 pounds or greater. Alternative embodiments are contemplated wherein the thickness of such foam block is about 2.0 inches. Alternative embodiments are contemplated wherein the thickness is about 1.5 inches, the density is about 4.0 lb/ft³ or greater, and the ILD is about 40 pounds or greater. Alternative embodiments are contemplated wherein the thickness is about 1.5 inches, the density is about 2.5 lb/ft³ or greater, and the ILD is about 50 pounds or greater. Alternative embodiments are contemplated wherein the ILD of the foam block is about 70 pounds or greater for whatever thickness and density is used. Alternative embodiments are contemplated wherein the foam block has a thickness of about 1.5 inches and an ILD of about 70 pounds or greater.

The opposing side edges of cushion member 14 (at 12 and 13) are cut like valleys 22 at an angle, as shown in FIG. 3, so that the outer walls 24 and 25 of each of the opposing outer sections 26 and 27 will be of identical dimension and angle. When rectangular panel 11 is rolled around from its open condition 18 (generally planar as shown in FIG. 2) to a wrapped condition 19 forming a cylindrical sleeve 17 (FIG. 1), the valleys 22 permit the cushion member 14 to bend at its connecting strips 23, with the trapezoidal sections 21 generally moving to a mutually abutting, but largely uncompressed configuration, as shown in FIG. 5. Valleys 22 may be formed with trapezoidal cross-sections, with rectangular cross-sections (FIG. 5a) or with any other shape that permits rectangular panel 11 to be rolled around to form the cylindrical sleeve 17 and preferably minimize the degree of precompression of the sections 21. That is, in its cylindrical configuration (17), the trapezoidal, rectangular or other shaped sections 21 have been compressed very little, thus reserving the majority of their cushioning ability for a vehicular impact. It is preferred that sections 21 and valleys 22 be dimensioned so that when rectangular panel 11 is rolled around to form cylindrical sleeve 17 of a particular diameter, the side walls 24 and 25 of adjacent sections 21 are abutting each other and under little compression. Alternative embodiments are contemplated wherein trapezoidal sections 21 and valleys 22 be dimensioned so that when rectangular panel 11 is rolled around to form cylindrical sleeve 17 of a particular diameter, the side walls 24 and 25 of adjacent trapezoidal sections 21 are abutting each other and under greater compression to minimize slippage between adjacent trapezoidal sections 21. Alternative embodiments are contemplated wherein the valleys 22 are formed in a shape other than trapezoidal and, when rectangular panel 11 is rolled around to form cylindrical sleeve 17 of a particular diameter, the side walls the adjacent sections are at least substantially or entirely abutting each other. Alternative embodiments are contemplated wherein cushion member 14 has no valleys formed therein, but is a solid block of foam or foam-like material (FIG. 6). Alternative embodiments are contemplated wherein cushion member 14 comprises multiple cushion elements, such as a base cushion element 28 and an inner cushion element 29 (FIG. 7). Base and inner cushion elements 28 and 29 may be made of the same foam material or different materials (foam and/or other cushion material) having different properties, such as different bulk densities, tensile strengths and tear strengths.

Outer covering 15 comprises a strong, flexible and water resistant or waterproof material, such as that typically used for tarpaulins. Such material may comprise a cloth such as a polyester or synthetic fiber canvas coated or treated with plastic, latex or other material that enhances its strength, water resistance and/or durability. In one embodiment, outer covering 15 comprises an awning or marine grade fabric from Glen Raven, Inc. of Glen Raven, N.C. It is preferable that such material accept printing to enable application of designs, images and text.

Outer covering 15 is a single sheet of material that covers the entire outside surface 31 of cushion member 14, extends therefrom over the top end 32 and bottom end 33 of cushion member 14, and therefrom back some distance toward the vertical midline 34 to its opposing edges 36 and 37. Between edge 36 and top end 32, outer covering 15 is connected to itself at the opposing outer edges 12 and 13 of rectangular panel 11 (at 38 and 39) to form an upper pocket 38. Outer covering 15 similarly defines a lower pocket 41. Together, upper and lower pockets 40 and 41 receive and hold cushion member 14, as shown. A worn or damaged cushion member 14 can thus easily be removed and replaced with a new cushion member 14. Or, a particular cushion member 14 can be replaced with a cushion member 14 having different cushioning or other properties.

Alternative embodiments are contemplated wherein at least some portion of the cushion member 14 is more permanently fixed to the outer covering. For example and without limitation, portions of cushion member 14 can be glued to outer covering 15, such as along portions of one or more of the trapezoidal sections 21 (as at 42 between top end 32 and end 36). While such permanent bonding between outer covering 15 and cushion member 14 may preclude interchangeability of cushion member 14, it may increase the integrity, durability and life of protective sleeve 17. Alternative embodiments are contemplated wherein outer covering 15 is sized so that its opposing ends 36 and 37 contact and connect with each other to completely enclose cushion member 14, which thus protects cushion member 14 from dirt and debris.

Connection device 16 comprises a connection strip 43 and first and second connector elements 44 and 45. Connection strip 43 extends laterally from edge 12, comprises the same material as that of outer covering 15 and is connected thereto by any appropriate means such as sewing or gluing. Alternatively, connection strip can be an uninterrupted portion of outer covering 15 extending laterally of side edge 12. In the present embodiment, connector elements 44 and 45 are Velcro® strips (one being the hooks, the other the loops), with connector element 44 being a first Velcro® strip 46 affixed to the outer surface 47 of outer covering 15 along edge 13. Connector element 45 comprises two Velcro® strips 48 and 49 affixed to the inner side of connection strip 43 along edge 12, as shown. When rectangular panel 11 is rolled around to form cylindrical sleeve 17, edges 12 and 13 are brought proximal one another—here, edges 12 and 13 are brought together in mutual abutment (FIG. 5), and the innermost Velcro® strip 48 aligns and engages with strip 46 to hold edges 12 and 13 together. The two or more Velcro® strips 48 and 49 (or one or more such strips of varying sizes) provide adjustability for bollards 5 of varying diameters. Thus for a slightly larger bollard 5, rectangular panel 11 can be wrapped around the bollard 5 until edges 12 and 13 are brought as close together as possible. Connection strip 43 and its Velcro® strips 48 and 49 are then pulled to overlap and engage with the mating Velcro® strip 46. Alternative embodiments are contemplated wherein connection strip 43 is sized and shaped differently such as, and without limitation, extending farther outwardly from edge 12 or comprising two or more individual straps spaced apart between the top and bottom ends 32 and 33 and extending outwardly from edge 12. Each such strap would be provided a Velcro® element on its inner side of the type appropriate to engage with mating such elements affixed on the outer surface 47 proximal to edge 13. Alternative embodiments are contemplated wherein connection device 16 comprises any other appropriate structure and elements capable of securely connecting edges 12 and 13 together, or close together, to form a sleeve sized to surround a bollard 5. Such alternative structure may include, without limitation, any of the following: laces, hooks, eyes, grommets, clasps and hasps. Alternative embodiments are contemplated wherein rectangular panel 11 can be held in a cylindrical sleeve configuration by elements that surround the panel such as, and without limitation, worm clamps, elastic cords, ropes and flexible and inflexible rings.

Apparatus 10 is contemplated to be preformed into its protective sleeve 17 and slid over a bollard 5 or to be wrapped loosely or tightly around the bollard 5 and its edges 12 and 13 then connected together with the connection device 16. In either case, it is often desired to secure apparatus 10 in place to inhibit or prevent theft and/or to maintain apparatus 10 in a particular position. Apparatus 10 is also thus provided with a securing device 53 that includes a base connection element 54, a sleeve connection element 55 and a connector 56. Base connection element 54 is an eye bolt which is secured into the ground by any appropriate means, such as by screwing eye bolt 54 into a hole in the ground or, as in the case of a concrete sidewalk or the like, positioning eye bolt 54 in place during the forming of the concrete. Sleeve connection element 55 is a grommet provided in outer covering 15, outside of cushion member 14 and proximal the bottom end 33. Connector 56 is an elastic cord that extends between eye bolt 54 and grommet 55. In the event protective sleeve 17 is impacted by a vehicle, it may spin about bollard 5. Apparatus 10 may be provided with printing 57 on its outside surface 31 to provide a desired message in text and/or images, such as and without limitation, advertising, helpful information, or a warning message. If protective sleeve 17 is provided with printing, which is desired to be oriented in a specific direction to always be visible in a certain way, elastic cord 56 will permit protective sleeve 17 to be rotated somewhat about bollard 5, but it will then pull sleeve 17 back to its desired orientation. Elastic cord 56 is shown extending through eye bolt 54 and grommet 55 and fixed to itself by clamp rings 58. Alternative embodiments are contemplated wherein cord 56 is provided with a snap ring or other mechanism facilitating easy removal of cord 56 when desired.

Referring to FIGS. 9-11 there is shown an apparatus 60 in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention. Apparatus 60, like apparatus 10 of FIGS. 1-8, includes a cushion member 61 and an outer covering 62 that together form a hooded sleeve 64. Cushion member 61 and outer covering 62 are both hood shaped and are sized to generally match and fit over a desired bollard 65, as shown. Like outer covering 15 of apparatus 10, the covering material 62 covers the entire outside of cushion member 61, wraps under the bottom end 66, and up a desired distance to its distal edge 67. Outer covering 62 is connected to cushion member 61, like outer covering 15, in any appropriate manner, such as gluing at one or multiple locations.

The bollard 65 is shown here including a base plate 69, which is secured to the ground 70 by bolt and nut combinations 71. Apparatus 60 includes a securing device 74 that includes a base connection element 75, a sleeve connection element 76 and a connector 77. Base connection element 75 is an eye bolt fixed in any appropriate manner to base plate 69 (such as by being screwed into base plate 69 or welded thereto). Connection element 76 is a tab that extends from outer covering 62 proximal the bottom end 66 and has a grommet 78 sized for receipt of the connector 77. Connector 77 is a cord, preferably elastic. Alternative embodiments are contemplated wherein connector 77 comprises any other appropriate element for securely connecting sleeve 64 to the ground or bollard 65, such as and without limitation, a chain, bar, rod or cable. Connector 77 may also include any appropriate locking mechanism, such as and without limitation, a padlock, key lock or similar device in place of or in addition to the cord, chain, bar, rod, cable or other device connecting element.

Referring to FIGS. 12-14 there is shown an apparatus 90 in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention. Apparatus 90, like apparatus 10 of FIGS. 1-8, includes a cushion member 91 and an outer covering 92 that together form a generally rectangular panel 93 that can be rolled around to form cylindrical protective sleeve (not shown). Also like cushion member 14 of apparatus 10, cushion member 91 comprises a foam or foam-like material. Cushion member 91 is encased within outer covering 92 and the resulting generally rectangular panel 93 is then pinched along parallel strips 94 to form a series of parallel cushion panels 95. Pinched strips 94 act like hinges to enable panel 93 to be rolled around and formed into a protective cylindrical sleeve, like that of sleeve 17, which can be slid over a bollard 5. Apparatus 90 also includes an appropriate connection device, which includes connection strips 98 and 99. Connection strips 98 and 99 extend outwardly from the opposing outer cushion panels 100 and 101, respectively, and are provided with first and second connector elements 102 and 103. Like connector elements 44 and 45 of apparatus 10 of FIG. 3, connector elements 102 and 103 comprise mating Velcro® elements that, when panel is rolled around and formed into a protective cylindrical sleeve, overlap and engage each other to connect the opposing sides of panel 93, at cushion panels 100 and 101, together.

Alternative embodiments are contemplated wherein the connection device of apparatus 90 has different configurations, which all still operate to secure the opposing sides of panel 93, at panels 100 and 102, together. For example and without limitation, FIG. 14 shows an apparatus 110 in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention wherein the generally rectangular panel 111 has only one connection strip 112 extending outwardly from the cushion panel 113 at one side of the panel, the connection strip 112 being formed along the plane 114 of the outer side of panel 111. When panel 111 is rolled around and formed into a protective cylindrical sleeve, the connector element 116 (a Velcro® strip) affixed to the inner side of connection strip 112 overlaps and engages with its mating connector element 117 (a Velcro® strip).

Apparatus 90 is contemplated to have a securing device, like that of apparatus 10 and/or 60, to secure apparatus 90 with the associated bollard or ground structure.

Alternative embodiments are contemplated wherein outer covering 15 comprises multiple pieces of material connected together in any appropriate manner, such as and without limitation, by sewing, gluing, Velcro®, hooks, clasps or links.

Referring to FIGS. 15 there is shown an apparatus 120 in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention. Apparatus 120 is similar to apparatus 10 except that the securing device 121 is positioned at the top of the sleeve 122. Securing device 121 includes the base connection element (eye bolt) 125 being mounted to the bollard 126 at the top thereof by appropriate means such as by being screwed or welded thereto. Securing device 121 further includes the sleeve connection element 127 to include a flap 128 extending from the top of sleeve 122 and having a grommet 129. Sleeve connection element 127 is contemplated to have alternative structure, as desired, such as the grommet being located directly in and at the top of sleeve 122, or a cord or other element connected with or extending from sleeve 122, or any other appropriate structure, which allows a connector 132 to extend between base connection element 125 and sleeve 122 and to secure sleeve 122 with bollard 126. The sleeve connection element 127 here includes a cord 133 secured as by a closed loop through grommet 129 and a second cord 134 connected to base connection element 125. A lock 135 connects cords 133 and 134 together. While base connection element 125 is fixedly connected to bollard 126, alternative embodiments are contemplated wherein the base connection element is structured for its mounting to bollard 126, to cord 134 and/or directly to the lock 135 to permit the sleeve 122 to spin freely about bollard 126 and for the connector to move with it. Either or both of cords 133 and 134 may be elastic. Alternative embodiments are contemplated wherein connector 132 comprises any other appropriate element(s) to connect sleeve 122 to bollard 126 including, without limitation, ropes, chains, wires, straps, links, and worm clamps. The location and configuration of the sleeve connection element 127 of sleeve 122 permits sleeve 122 to be used with a bollard 126 with the securing device being top mounted (FIG. 15) or bottom mounted (as in FIGS. 1 or 10).

The bollards 5 described herein are contemplated to exist in an unlimited number of places, such as, and without limitation: garage entrances, parking garages, parking lots, drive-throughs (e.g. pharmacies, fast-food restaurants, banks), carwashes, freestanding ATM machines, roads and landscaped areas around buildings. The apparatuses 10, 60, 90, 110 and 120 are contemplated to be sized and configured for use with any and all such bollards.

The apparatuses 10, 60, 90 and, 110 and 120 are also contemplated for use on bollards or barriers having configurations other than shown in FIGS. 1-15. For example and without limitation, referring to FIGS. 16-19, a generally horizontal road barrier 139 (also a bollard, as used herein) can be covered with apparatus 10 by wrapping it around the such barrier and connecting the opposing edges 12 and 13 together using the connection device. Alternative embodiments are contemplated wherein the connection device comprises structure other than the connection strip 43 and Velcro® strips 46, 48 and 49. For example, referring FIG. 17 there is shown an apparatus 140 for covering a bollard shown in FIG. 17 in accordance with another embodiment of apparatus 10 wherein the connection device comprises first and second connector elements 142 and 143, each of which comprises a first strap 144 connected to the outer surface 47 of outer covering 15 along edge 12 and a second strap 145 connected to the outer surface 47 of outer covering 15 along edge 13. Straps 144 and 145 are securely connected to outer covering by any appropriate means, such as sewing. Strap 144 forms a loop, securing holding a pair of rings 148 and 149. Second strap is manually extended around one loop 148 and back under the second loop 149 and pulled tight, as shown in FIG. 18, to securely, but removably connecting connector elements 142 and 143, and thereby opposing edges 12 and 13, together. Alternative embodiments are contemplated wherein straps 144 and 145 are not provided with rings, but instead are merely tied together.

Another embodiment of a connection device for connecting opposing edges 12 and 13 together around a railing or other structure to be covered is shown in FIG. 19 where an apparatus 150, otherwise identical to apparatus 10, includes a number of grommets 151 proximal to the opposing edges 12 and 13. Connection devices here include bungee cords 153 that can be connected between any pair of grommets to enable apparatus 150 to be appropriately wrapped around the barrier 139. Reinforcing stitching 155 is provided proximal the grommets 151 and edges 12 and 13, as desired.

Referring to FIG. 20, there is shown an apparatus 160 in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention. Apparatus 160, which is otherwise identical to apparatus 10 of FIGS. 1 and 2, the connection device includes grommets 161 being provided along all four edges of the panel 162, thereby enabling it to be hung by appropriate cords 163, which have hooks 164 at their opposing ends, as shown in FIG. 20. The configuration of apparatus 160 enables it to be hung from a rafter or other structure, for example, in a garage to protect a car door from being opened into a nearby structure and damaged thereby. Apparatus 160, as well as apparatuses 10, 60, 90, 110, 120, 140, 150 and 170 (FIG. 1), are contemplated to be positioned in virtually any possible position proximal an item to be protected or from which protection is desired and are to be secured there at by the various connection means described herein.

Referring to FIG. 21, there is shown an apparatus 170 in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention. Apparatus 170, like apparatus 10 of FIGS. 1 and 2 and other apparatuses disclosed herein, includes a cushion member 171 and an outer covering 172 that together form a generally rectangular panel 173 that can be rolled around to form a cylindrical protective sleeve (not shown). Also like cushion member 14 of apparatus 10, cushion member 171 comprises a foam or foam-like material that is made to a particular desired shape. As shown in FIG. 21, cushion member 171 is generally rectangular, but could be formed in any size and shape to result in the desired cylindrical or other configuration for the particular bollard or other device to be covered. Cushion member 172 is shown to be a simple rectangular panel, but alternative embodiments are contemplated wherein cushion member 172 is provided with groove, cuts, or other non-planar configuration, as with panel 11 of FIG. 2, to facilitate forming panel 171 into a cylindrical sleeve.

Outer covering 172 has inner and outer sides 175 and 176, respectively, that are joined in any appropriate manner (such as sewing) at their opposing edges 177 and 178 and along the bottom edge 179, which creates a pocket 181, outer covering 172 thus defining an envelope for receipt of the cushion member 171. Pocket 181 is sized and configured to receive and somewhat tightly envelope cushion member 171, as shown. Outer covering 172 also includes a flap 183 extending upwardly from outer side 176 that is sized to fold over and close off the opening 184 of pocket 181. Velcro® strips 186 and 187 connected with flap 183 and inner side 175, respectively, permit flap 183 to be secured in a closed position, closing off pocket 181 and holding cushion member 171 therein. Alternative embodiments are contemplated wherein sides 175 and 176 are connected along their top and bottom and one side edge to create a pocket with an opening located at either side edge 177 or 178. Apparatus 170 also includes an appropriate connection device, which includes mating Velcro® connection strips 190, 191 and 192 that extend laterally from side edge 177, and includes Velcro® strips 193, 194 and 195 affixed to outer side 176, proximal side edge 178. These Velcro® strips permit cushioned panel 173 to be wrapped around a bollard and secured to itself (with some variability as to its circumference) to form a sleeve surrounding the bollard or other structure. Like outer covering 15 of apparatus 10 of FIG. 1, outer cover 172 is provided with indicia (not shown) on its outer side 176 to provide information, advertising and the like to consumers or other passers by. In the event that cushion member 171 is damaged or needs to be replaced with another cushion member of differing characteristics (density, ILD, etc.), cushion member 171 can easily be removed from its outer covering 172 and replaced with an alternative cushion member. Likewise, if the message or other indicia provided on outer covering 172 is desired to be changed, the cushion member 171 can be removed from such outer covering 172 and put into another outer covering having a different message.

Cushioned panel 173 can be applied to a bollard in any desired orientation. For example, it may be applied so that flap 183 is at the top or at the bottom. Apparatus 170 may also be provided with a securing device (not shown) of any of the types disclosed herein (such as device 53 in FIG. 8) or any other appropriate securing device to hold apparatus 170 in position relative to its bollard or other member to be covered and protected. Similarly, embodiments are contemplated wherein the connection device comprises any of the connection devices disclosed herein (such as shown in FIGS. 17-19) or any other connection device that appropriately positions and holds the opposing side edges 177 and 178 proximal one another to form the sleeve for covering the bollard or other device.

While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, the same is to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character, it being understood that only the preferred embodiment has been shown and described and that all changes and modifications that come within the spirit of the invention are desired to be protected.

Claims

1. An apparatus for covering a bollard, comprising:

a cushioned panel having opposing first and second side edges, said panel including a cushion member and an outer covering at least partially covering the cushion member;

a connection device for connecting the first and second side edges together; and,

said cushioned panel having an open condition and a wrapped condition, the open condition including said cushioned panel being substantially planar and the wrapped condition including the first side edge being connected with the second side edge by said connection device and said cushioned panel forming a sleeve sized and configured to surround a bollard.

2. The apparatus for covering a bollard of claim 1 wherein said cushioned panel in the open condition forms a substantially planar rectangle.

3. The apparatus for covering a bollard of claim 1 wherein said cushioned panel in the wrapped condition forms a cylinder.

4. The apparatus for covering a bollard of claim 1 wherein the cushion member has a thickness and is made of foam having a density and an ILD.

5. The apparatus for covering a bollard of claim 4 wherein the cushion member forms a plurality of serially connected trapezoidal cross-sectioned sections.

6. The apparatus for covering a bollard of claim 4 wherein the cushion member forms a plurality of serially connected rectangular cross-sectioned sections.

7. The apparatus for covering a bollard of claim 1 wherein the cushion member includes multiple cushion elements including a base cushion element and a second cushion element.

8. The apparatus for covering a bollard of claim 7 wherein the cushion member has properties including bulk density, tensile strength, tensile modulus, and tear strength, and wherein at least one value of said properties is different between the base cushion element and the second cushion element.

9. The apparatus for covering a bollard of claim 1 wherein the outer covering comprises a water resistant fabric.

10. The apparatus for covering a bollard of claim 1 wherein the outer covering bears indicia providing at least one of information, advertising, a trademark and a non-commercial design.

11. The apparatus for covering a bollard of claim 1 wherein the outer covering completely encloses the cushion member.

12. The apparatus for covering a bollard of claim 1 wherein the outer covering is securely bonded to the cushion member by an adhesive.

13. The apparatus for covering a bollard of claim 1 wherein the outer covering defines at least one pocket sized and configured to receive and hold the cushion member therein and to enable the cushion member to be removed and replaced.

14. The apparatus for covering a bollard of claim 1 wherein said connection device includes first and second Velcro® strips connected proximal the opposing first and second side edges, respectively, and configured for mutual engagement to connect the first and second side edges substantially together.

15. The apparatus for covering a bollard of claim 14 wherein the first and second Velcro® strips are connected substantially parallel to the first and second side edges.

16. The apparatus for covering a bollard of claim 1 wherein said connection device includes at least first and second straps fixedly connected to the outer covering proximal the first and second side edges, respectively, the at least first and second straps being sized and configured to be tied together.

17. The apparatus for covering a bollard of claim 1 wherein said connection device includes at least first and second straps fixedly connected to the outer covering proximal the first and second side edges, respectively, said connection device further including a pair of rings fixed secured to one of the at least first and second straps and being sized and configured to securely engage with the other of the at least first and second straps to connect the opposing first and second side edges together.

18. The apparatus for covering a bollard of claim 1 wherein said connection device includes the cushioned panel having top and bottom edges and the outer covering having a plurality of grommets positioned at least along the opposing side edges, and wherein said connection device includes at least one cord configured to engage with grommets at opposing edges to secure such opposing edges together around a bollard.

19. The apparatus for covering a bollard of claim 1 wherein said connection device includes the cushioned panel having top and bottom edges and the outer covering having a plurality of grommets positioned along the opposing side edges and opposing top and bottom edges.

20. The apparatus for covering a bollard of claim 1 further including securing means for securing the apparatus to the bollard.

21. The apparatus for covering a bollard of claim 20 wherein the bollard is mounted to ground and wherein said securing means includes a base connection element, a sleeve connection element and a connector, the base connection element being connected to one of the bollard and the ground, the sleeve connection element being connected with the outer covering, and the connector sized and configured to connect the base connection element with the sleeve connection element.

22. The apparatus for covering a bollard of claim 21 wherein the sleeve connection element includes a grommet fixed to the outer covering.

23. The apparatus for covering a bollard of claim 21 wherein the sleeve connection element includes a tab connected with the outer covering, the tab including a grommet.

24. The apparatus for covering a bollard of claim 21 wherein the base connection element is an eye bolt.

25. The apparatus for covering a bollard of claim 21 wherein the connector is an elastic cord.

26. The apparatus for covering a bollard of claim 21 wherein the connector includes a lock to securely connect the apparatus to the bollard and to selectively permit disconnection therefrom.

27. The apparatus of claim 4 wherein the thickness is between about 1.2 and 3.0 inches.

28. The apparatus of claim 27 wherein the thickness is about 1.5 inches.

29. The apparatus of claim 4 wherein the density is between about 2.5 and 6.0 lb/ft3.

30. The apparatus of claim 29 wherein the ILD is about 40 pounds or greater.

31. The apparatus of claim 29 wherein the ILD is about 70 pounds.

32. The apparatus of claim 31 wherein the thickness is about 1.5 inches.

33. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the outer covering defines a pocket with an opening, the pocket and opening sized and configured to substantially and entirely receive the cushion member.

34. The apparatus for covering a bollard of claim 33 wherein the outer covering includes an inner side and an outer side and further includes a flap connected to one of the inner and outer sides and configured to cover and close off the opening of the pocket.

35. The apparatus for covering a bollard of claim 34 wherein the outer covering includes flap connection means connected with the flap and the other of the inner and outer sides to releasably connect the flap with such other of the inner and outer sides.

36. A method for covering a bollard, comprising:

providing an apparatus for covering a bollard including a cushioned panel having opposing first and second side edges, said panel including a cushion member and an outer covering at least partially covering the cushion member; a connection device for connecting the first and second side edges together; and, said cushioned panel having an open condition and a wrapped condition, the open condition including said cushioned panel being substantially planar;

forming the wrapped condition by connecting the first side edge to the second side edge with said connection device to form a sleeve; and,

positioning the apparatus proximal the bollard so that the apparatus forms a sleeve surrounding the bollard.

37. The method for covering a bollard of claim 36 wherein said providing step includes the cushioned panel in the open condition forming a substantially planar rectangle.

38. The method for covering a bollard of claim 36 wherein said providing step includes the cushion member having a thickness and being made of foam having a density and an ILD.

39. The method for covering a bollard of claim 38 wherein said providing step includes the ILD being about 70 pounds.

40. An apparatus for covering a bollard comprising:

a cushioned cylinder including a foam cushion member and an outer covering, the outer covering defining a pocket sized and configured to interchangeably receive and hold the cushion member.