Abstract: A composite action support structure for a bridge or other civil infrastructure includes an elongate member made of a plastic material and providing load bearing capability. A cover plate is made of a plastic material and extends along at least a portion of the length of the elongate member. A lower surface of the cover plate is mated to the upper surface of the elongate member. A plurality of panels made of a plastic material are arranged at an angle to the cover plate, and a lower surface of each of the panels mates with an upper surface of the cover plate. The elongate member, the cover plate and the plurality of panels form a structural unit. The plastic materials used can include virgin plastic, thermoplastic, recycled thermoplastic composite, recycled structural composite, combinations thereof, and the like.

Abstract: Abutment and bridge designs include a bridge superstructure and abutment wherein the abutment has a vertical portion of a backwall that can be fixedly joined to the end face of the bridge superstructure without an interdisposed expansion joint. A downward facing surface of the bridge superstructure can be fixedly joined to an upward facing surface of the abutment, or alternatively, a bearing pad may be disposed therebetween. The abutment may further comprise a backwall made from a plurality of panels fixedly joined to a plurality of supporting piles. The abutments and bridge superstructure may be made substantially from composite materials including recycled structural composite and other thermoplastics.

Abstract: A composite action support structure for a bridge or other civil infrastructure includes an elongate member made of a plastic material and providing load bearing capability. A cover plate is made of a plastic material and extends along at least a portion of the length of the elongate member. A lower surface of the cover plate is mated to the upper surface of the elongate member. A plurality of panels made of a plastic material are arranged at an angle to the cover plate, and a lower surface of each of the panels mates with an upper surface of the cover plate. The elongate member, the cover plate and the plurality of panels form a structural unit. The plastic materials used can include virgin plastic, thermoplastic, recycled thermoplastic composite, recycled structural composite, combinations thereof, and the like.

Abstract: A hanging ornament adapted to be hung from a tree or the like including synchronized, animated elements accompanied by the playback of audible media. A direct current motor powers a plurality of synchronized rocker/cam assemblies, each of which controls and synchronizes the animation of individual facial features which are visible through the ornament housing. An internal source of direct current power energizes the DC motor and, upon activation, energizes the playback of recorded media.