Abstract: There is disclosed an apparatus and method for visual identification of valves in multi valve distribution and transmission systems, and particularly for municipal utility infrastructures such as mainline, connection, drain, pressure district, pressure regulating and pressure sustaining valves. In an embodiment, color coded valve box inserts are made to specifications, inserted and secured into place at the opening of multiple valve boxes to easily and accurately identify the different types or sizes of valves. Each color represents a different type or size of valve, as established by the municipality. A color coding chart identifying the different types or sizes of valves may be placed at each point of access to the valves to assist in identification of the different types of valves.

Abstract: A process and system for detecting the presence of a person overboard including: setting the perimeter of an area to scan, scanning said area 180 degrees in azimuth utilizing a laser beam for receiving a reflection of said laser beam off said person, detecting said reflection and playing back a video recording of said trajectory of the person, wherein the area above and below the perimeter of an area to scan is continuously video recorded and wherein upon detecting the target, one or more of audio and visual alarms alert that crew, and wherein an alarm with location is sent to PDA system with GPS coordinates time and date. Additionally a launched deploys a device to track the person overboard, and allows persons on the ship or in a control center to ascertain the location of the person overboard.

Abstract: The method uses a location device and a timing element to determine the location of a protection device at various periods of time. During these periods of time, the human may be participating in a variety of activities and positions.

Abstract: An apparatus aids in indicating the location of pipe and conduit that may be within or behind walls. Specifically, an in-wall pipe and conduit location indicator apparatus helps to indicate the presence and location of pipes and conduit disposed behind drywall wallboard within a room in a building. Methods of using the same are further provided.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include methods and apparatuses relating to pointer range designators. In an embodiment, a marking on a pointer and a rotation of the pointer may designate the distance from a location to an object.

Abstract: A water activated device having a lower casing with a cavity into which a spring is received, followed by a plunger and a bobbin. The lower casing attaches to an upper casing which houses a floatation member and includes a central aperture sized to allow the plunger to pass. The bobbin is sandwiched between the floatation member and the plunger. The floatation member defines a line holding dispensing spool such that one end of a line is attached to the spool and the opposite end of the line is attached to the device. The bobbin is the water sensitive trigger: when the water comes in contact with the bobbin, the bobbin starts to disintegrate losing its structural integrity, allowing force to enable the spring, forcing the plunger against the floatation member which discharges the floatation member from the upper casing. Once the floatation member is discharged, the floatation member floats to the water surface.

Abstract: A plurality of biodegradable stakes for use as trail markers that are coated with a biodegradable coating comprised of an adhesive and a fluorescing compound for inserting into the ground such that the coated surface of the marker is exposed at various distances from each other such that the stakes glow when a source of ultra-violet light is present and thus form a route or trail by which a person can find their way to a point of interest even in low light conditions, while remaining unobtrusive so that one has difficulty seeing the stake without ultraviolet light and unless one is specifically looking for it thereby not detracting from the natural appearance of the location.

Abstract: The method uses a location device and a timing element to determine the location of a protection device at various periods of time. During these periods of time, the human may be participating in a variety of activities and positions.

Abstract: The traphouse safety flag is an electromechanical safety device mounted at the roofline of a traphouse intended to replace the traditional safety cone or cloth flag that is commonly used to indicate to the shooters that the traphouse is occupied and shooting cannot commence. A “no flag” detent position energizes the normal trap shooting control mechanism while indicating to the shooters that the traphouse and personnel are secure. The safety flag obscures the entrance to the traphouse in a shooting position and if the flag is moved out of the no flag detent position for any reason, the trap shooting control mechanism is deactivated and will not accept a launch command from the shooter.

Abstract: A marker for marking a ground surface is disclosed, and includes a shaft having a bottom end and a top end. The shaft includes an insertion portion for insertion into the ground. The insertion portion is located at the bottom end of the shaft. The shaft includes a mast portion for extending above the ground surface when the insertion portion is at least partially inserted into the ground. The shaft includes an engagement portion located between the insertion portion and the mast portion with the insertion portion being located between the engagement portion and the bottom end. The engagement portion is configured to be engaged and pushed to cause insertion of the shaft into the ground.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the present invention includes an apparatus to aid in parking a vehicle. The apparatus includes a mounting member, a horizontal member, a vertical member, and an indicator. The horizontal member is coupled to the mounting member. The horizontal member extends from the vehicle and defines a required distance from a side of the vehicle to a first periphery of a parking space. The vertical member is coupled to the horizontal member that defines a second periphery. The indicator is coupled to the vertical member such that the first periphery may be compared with the second periphery in aligning the vehicle within the parking space.

Abstract: A rescue device includes a control module to sense an avalanche, sense the direction of the surface and establish a target path to the surface. A nozzle is selected or oriented by the control module along the target path. A fluid reservoir is connected to the nozzle to force a fluid through the nozzle along the target path to the surface. This allows rescuers to identify the location of a victim and also provides an air path to the victim.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for marking the location of a buried object in which the location of the buried object is determined and a barhole driver or plunger bar having a detachable plug element and a marking material for marking the location of the buried object is driven into the ground proximate the location of the buried object. The detachable plug element detaches from the plunger bar as the plunger bar is removed from the ground, leaving a substantially continuous path of the marking material in the ground extending substantially continuously from proximate the detachable plug element to the ground surface.

Abstract: A whisker marker system is disclosed for marking a ground surface having an installation apparatus a whisker marker, a marker strip, and a whisker fastener. The installation apparatus includes a housing, an elongate driver shaft for connection to a power driver for rotating the driver shaft. The drive shaft has the forward end a driver bit. A slide body is coupled to the housing for moving between an extended position and a retracted position. The slide body has a guide channel for receiving a marker strip. A marker includes a whisker marker for visually marking a location on a surface and a threaded fastener for holding the whisker marker in place. The whisker marker includes a bunch of flexible strands that form an indicator flag. The flexible strand bunch has a bunching device attached at its longitudinal center. A pair of apertures are located opposite each other in the bunching device. The marker strip includes threaded fasteners, such as a screw, having whisker markers attached in a strip.

Abstract: A marker installation system is disclosed for inserting a marker of the type having shaft with a bottom end for inserting into a ground surface and an engagement portion of the shaft separated from the bottom end by an insertion portion of the shaft. The apparatus includes a magazine assembly defining a magazine space configured to receive at least one marker. The magazine space has a push position in the magazine space for receiving the at least one marker. The apparatus further comprises a push assembly mounted on the magazine assembly. The push assembly is configured to engage the engagement portion of the shaft of the marker located in the push position and push the marker from the magazine assembly when the push assembly is actuated. A plurality of the markers are bonded together such that each of the markers can be removed from the rest of the plurality when it is desired to insert a marker into the ground.

Abstract: A marker installation apparatus is disclosed for inserting a marker of the type having shaft with a bottom end for inserting into a ground surface and an engagement portion of the shaft separated from the bottom end by an insertion portion of the shaft. The apparatus includes a magazine assembly defining a magazine space configured to receive at least one marker. The magazine space has a push position in the magazine space for receiving the at least one marker. The apparatus further comprises a push assembly mounted on the magazine assembly. The push assembly is configured to engage the engagement portion of the shaft of the marker located in the push position and push the marker from the magazine assembly when the push assembly is actuated. A plurality of the markers are bonded together such that each of the markers can be removed from the rest of the plurality when it is desired to insert a marker into the ground.

Abstract: Signaling methods and apparatuses are described for preventing flood irrigation water from overflowing in a trench, field, or other area. Signaling devices may include indicators such as a reflector, a flag, a light, or a sound device provided on an end of an elongate member having its opposite end engaged with the ground. A stake is driven into the ground near the elongate member in the trench or other area where water will flow. A breakaway link such as a strip of paper is engaged to either the indicator or the elongate member and also to the stake, causing the elongate member to be bent downward, with the breakaway link located in the trench where water will flow. When exposed to the flow of water, the breakaway link weakens and eventually tears such that the elongate member springs upward carrying the indicator with it, signaling an operator that water has reached that location in the trench.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a permanently placed retractable hazard and boundary marker. The hazard and boundary marker comprises a cylinder housing placed vertically beneath the ground or a playing, walking, or driving surface, and having an upper opening at or slightly above the ground or surface level. Said cylinder housing having an enlarged removable cylinder housing cap with a diameter greater than the cylinder housing attached to its upper opening. A retractable hazard and boundary marker rod is inserted through a hole in the center of the cylinder housing cap into the cylinder housing, allowing the rod to be lowered into the cylinder housing. The rod is elevated through the cylinder housing cap into a visible position by pulling on the widened top of the rod or a pull ring inserted through a hole bored into the top end of the rod.

Abstract: A remote pipe identifier system is implemented by a source vibrational transmitter mechanically attached to a selected pipe at one location which transmits vibrations into the source pipe. A technician is able to detect the vibrations in a remote location by using a sensitive detector and thus successfully identify the pipe of interest in his work quickly and without any invasive technique.

Abstract: A system for marking and detecting an underground utility is provided. In particular, the present invention relates to a system of risers that are each coupled to an underground utility. Additionally, a free end of each riser is indirectly coupled to an adjacent riser via a colored cable, wherein the colored cable is positioned at a predetermined height above the underground utility. Finally, the color of the cable is selected to visually identify the type of utility to which the system of risers is coupled.

Abstract: A deployable signaling device and method of use thereof which includes material with detectable properties such that it can be distinguished from a background when deployed in various environments. Such detectable properties may include visible detection, detection by hyperspectral imaging sensors, radio wave detection, and/or detection other electromagnetic differentiation from the background in which the material is associated or adjacent to. In one preferred form, the selectively detectable material has an deployable shape having a plurality of directional biasing elements associated with said material.

Abstract: A caution pole for embedding in a support medium for drawing attention to potential hazards includes a generally elongate pole body with a proximate end portion formed with a pointed tip for insertion into a support medium, a metal impact cap fitted over the end opposite the proximate end portion of the pole body, the impact cap including a generally cylindrical body having an access opening on one end thereof and a substantially planar surface opposing the access opening, and a clip disposed on the pole body having a base and an arm capable of securing an attachment to the caution pole.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for diverting the flight of birds in order to prevent collisions with overhead wires and cables, such as high-voltage lines. The inventive device comprises a system for fixing same to overhead wires and cables, from which a central body is suspended. The fixing system enables the device to be mounted to or removed from overhead wires and cables of different diameters manually by one person. The diversion device comprises a modular construction, thereby facilitating the transport thereof and the replacement of any part if necessary. Once assembled, the volume of the device is greater than that of the individual parts. All of the device is made form an electrically-insulating polymer material which does not corrode the cables or wires. Moreover, the device can move and the components thereof can have different colors in order to render same more visible. In addition, the components of the device are perforated such as to have low wind resistance.

Abstract: A device and method for identifying the tubes in a tubesheet, including locating a support element along a portion of the tubesheet with at least one means for identifying the location or condition of the adjacent tubes.

Abstract: An antenna ball assembly which can display a design or the like thereon and a method of use is disclosed. The antenna ball assembly has a body having a passage therethrough, a rearward projecting member and at least one flexible stopper. A flexible stopper is preferably positioned at each of the bottom and the top of an antenna. The body is positioned between the stoppers on the antenna with the antenna passing through the passage in the body. The rearward projecting member has a free end and is of a predetermined length with an extended width over at least a portion of the length, wherein the extended width is greater than the width of the antenna ball body. The rearward projecting member forms an angle of preferably from about 20° to less than 50° with the vertical axis of the passage through the body. The angled rearward projecting member controls the movement of the body, thereby allowing the body to move up the antenna as the antenna moves, such as when attached to a car.

Abstract: A goal to ground indicator device indicates a ready and/or upset condition of a ground supported goal such as a soccer goal that has at least one bar that lies in contact with the ground. The indicator device includes a base plate, a contact arm mounted to the base plate and movable relative to the base plate and an indicator arm mounted to the base plate for cooperation with the contact arm. The contact arm and a portion of the base plate are configured for contact with the bar. The indicator arm is movable relative to the contact arm between a ready position and an upset position. The indicator arm is positioned such that a portion of the contact arm cooperates with a portion of the indicator arm to temporarily maintain the indicator arm in the ready position. A biasing element biases the indicator arm to the upset position.

Abstract: A deployable marker banner structure and system including (a) an elongate, rollable/unrollable fabric body having opposite ends, a long axis, and opposite faces, (b) shape-forming biasing structure operatively connected to the body, applying shape-forming biasing forces thereto at plural, spaced locations distributed along the body's long axis in a manner whereby, with the body unrolled, the biasing structure produces complex, alternating, longitudinally distributed convex and concave topography portions in the body's faces, with at least one each of such convex and concave topography portions disposed in each face of the body, and with each convex topography portion in one face of the body corresponding, and being complementary, to a companion concave topography portion located directly in the opposite face of the body, and (c) facial visibility-enhancing structure operatively present at least on the convex topography portions in the body's faces, urged by the mentioned topography portions into complex conve

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are described for marking stakes and carriers. Marking stakes have a body and tab. The body's proximal end and the tab can be tilted out of a plane containing the remainder of the body so that apertures on the body and the tab register with one another and the body is tensioned substantially upright. The body's length is sufficient so that when the proximal end is fastened to a mounting surface the distal end is visible. The body may be flexible, avoiding dislodged, broken, bent, or moved stakes and preserving lines, curves, grades, offsets, cuts, and fills. The stake can remain flat when not in use, overcoming the problem of handling and transporting bulky stakes. Marking stake carriers carry lengthy stakes and fasteners and fasten to surveying rods with various diameters, providing a simple and organized method to handle and transport marking equipment.

Abstract: The invention provides marking apparatus for a fire hydrant or other utilities fixtures comprising a mast-holding bracket comprising a hollow pipe, means for removably securing the pipe to the fire hydrant or other utilities fixtures and an elongated mast removably received in the hollow pipe, the mast comprising a solid cylindrical flexible core and a flexible outer shell for mounting on the core, further comprising fastening means for securing the mast to the pipe. The apparatus can be attached to the outlet of a fire hydrant, the hole for the lifting bolt of a transformer or to a junction box, or as part of a concrete pedestal.

Abstract: A marker post system for marking the location underground pipelines includes marker post holder which removably holds a marker post. The marker post holder is configured for releasable connection with an underground tube. Removal of the holder from the tube provides manual access to the interior chamber of the tube to facilitate cleaning the interior chamber and removing a broken segment of a marker post which otherwise would be difficult without digging up the tube. A substantially watertight seal is preferably provided between the holder and marker post to prevent water from entering the interior chamber of the underground tube.

Abstract: A target indicator for visual guidance of a container into secured engagement with a support surface by mating of at least one coupling. The coupling includes a support coupling fitting located on the support surface and a container coupling fitting located on the container. The target indicator includes an attachment at least partially formed with a high visibility exterior and configured to at least partially encircle a coupling fitting in use.

Abstract: A fallen game locator to aid the hunter in locating the precise location game was when shot. A cylindrical, cone shaped device with unspecified fluorescent or brightly colored series of rings on the exterior, working in conjunction with a target site viewer tube, extending through the small center tip of the cone shaped device, through and beyond the larger opening of the cone shaped device with the back plate in place, and secured to a riser so as to enable the series of colored rings to be seen from multiple locations, at a distance, with the naked eye, a scope, or binoculars, thus economizing the length of time required to find shot game.

Abstract: A survey marker having a rod with a pointed tip and a shank extending therefrom composed of a rod or rebar material. A head extending from a distal end of the rod opposite the point may include means for retaining a survey flag, means for engaging a drive tool, and means for alignment.

Abstract: A mobile mounting device for location signal safety flags used by off road riders to prevent collisions when riding in hilly terrain. The mounting device of the invention provides for a flag or whip receiving mounting socket configured to be selectively attached to the back side of a chest protector worn by the off road vehicle rider. It can be moved from rider to rider.

Abstract: A cable identification system for locating and identifying an elongated cable includes a first elongated tape member and a second elongated tape member joined together at a hinge angle. The elongated marker is provided with a plurality of longitudinally spaced slot portions and a plurality of longitudinally spaced tab portions. The elongated marker has a lower vertical portion with about a 180° hinge angle and fixed connection to a cable and an upper portion with a selected hinge angle for extension thereof either above a ground level of a backfilled trench in a vertical direction, or below and parallel to the ground level of the backfilled trench in a horizontal direction.

Abstract: A cable marker includes a flag for connection to a support stake, wherein the flag has a center portion for connection to the support stake and includes a first side portion having an exterior display surface for an identification sign and a second side portion having an exterior display surface for an identification sign. By using a first side portion having an exterior display surface with an identification sign and a second side portion having an exterior display surface with an identification sign, the problem of not knowing the type of underground line being identified by the marker is avoided.

Abstract: A device for marking a location. The device coming in two separate pieces, namely a ground stake and a marking post. The ground stake configured for insertion into a ground surface. The marking post configured for attachment to the ground stake. The post is preferably removable from the stake so that when livestock are present, if they uproot or displace the marking post portion of the device, the ground stake remains in the ground still marking the location. If a survey crew or other individual is at the marking location after the post has been removed, they can replace the post (or insert a replacement post) to return the device to its full functionality.

Abstract: A device for flagging an object buried in the snow includes a flag housed in a pouch, and held within the pouch by a closure mechanism such as a snap closure or a hook-and-loop closure. The flag is attached to a tether by means of an encircling element that passes around the closure mechanism (for example the encircling element could comprise a loop on the pouch end of the tether). As the encircling element is tugged on sharply, it forces the closure mechanism open, which allows the flag to exit the pouch, unfurling as it goes. The flag is attached via the tether to the object to be flagged, such as a ski, while the pouch remains fastened to a base object such as a ski boot. The system may also be used to locate avalanche victims, in which case the flag is attached to the person, thus providing a visual clue to the location of the victim buried below the surface of the avalanche.

Abstract: A marker for locating an underground object such as a utility line features an elongate, flexible body, with an aperture near one end. The aperture has a “keyhole” shape which imparts sufficient stiffness in the marker so that it does not readily bend or flex at the aperture when handling the marker, while also allowing the marker to break near the aperture when a firm force is applied to the marker.

Abstract: A marker stake for locating a boundary reference point on a sports field can be buried and out of sight when not in use, and then quickly located using an electronic receiver which detects a signal emitted by an electronic marker in the marker stake. Various field boundary indicators can be removably attached to the marker stake. The stake may be embodied in a cylindrical body constructed of a moldable polymer with a socket at one end for receiving a pin or post of the field boundary indicator, and the electronic marker embedded inside the body. The electronic marker may be a passive LC marker tuned to a frequency associated with a known field sport. Different sets of such marker stakes tuned to different frequencies may be used to mark and relocate reference points for multiple sports played on the same field.

Abstract: The lamellar or strip-shaped floor marking, in particular for means of transportation, in particular airplanes, having a photoluminescent layer on which covering elements which appear dark in comparison with the luminous layer and which serve as a directional indication are arranged in such a way that acute-angled markings pointing in a direction are formed. The covering elements extend over the entire width of the floor marking and taper on both sides at one of their ends so that a recess bounded by an acute-angled isosceles triangle is formed there. The covering elements are substantially adjacent to one another, at least in groups, in such a way that the distance between them is smaller than approximately three times their longitudinal extent.

Abstract: An emergency rescue device and system are provided comprising a plurality of reflective emergency rescue strands. The plurality of reflective strands are housed within a canister. An activation element deploys the reflective strands away from the user in a multi-directional pattern. In the case of an avalanche victim, the reflective strands enable immediate visual identification of the general location of the victim. A rescuer may then pull on one of the exposed strands to exactly locate the victim. The reflective strands may be ejected away from the user in a number of ways to include activation of a combustible propellant, an explosive charge, or compressed source of gas integrated within the canister. Alternatively, a plurality of compressed springs within the canister may be used to eject the reflective strands, or the user may manually deploy the strands.

Abstract: A marker pole for embedding in a support medium for drawing attention to potentially hazardous subsurface structures within the support medium includes a generally elongate pole body molded from a generally brightly colored plastic material with a penetrating end formed with a tapered tip for insertion into the support medium, the taper being greater than forty-five degrees from a centerline longitudinal axis of the; and a metal impact cap fitted over the end opposite the penetrating end, the impact cap including a generally cylindrical body having an access opening on one end thereof and a substantially planar surface opposing the access opening, the planar surface being in substantial contact with the upper surface of the pole body for enhanced force transmission between the impact cap and the pole body during insertion of the pole into the support medium using an impact producing tool.

Abstract: A golf course marker comprising of at least one extendable member made of multiple telescoping sections capable of existing in a fully contracted configuration under ground or a fully extended configuration above the ground, and housed in an underground container.

Abstract: A method of reducing congestion on a roadway is disclosed comprising dividing selected lengths of selected normal lanes of a roadway into two commuter lanes, providing distinctive lane markings to identify the commuter lanes, and dynamically designating selected lengths of selected lanes as either normal lanes or pairs of commuter lanes. In order to dynamically change lane configurations, a set of indicators can be provided as lane markers together with a control system to alter particular lane configurations between normal lanes and commuting lanes both cyclically according to a preprogrammed schedule and dynamically in response to sensed vehicle traffic volume, unusual events such as accidents, weather, and so on. Commuter lanes are designated cyclically and dynamically in response to traffic conditions to increase the capacity of the affected road. Normal lanes are designated at other times.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for locating underground obstructions are disclosed. One embodiment of the present invention comprises an elongate probe with a first and second end and a first internal fluid passageway, a handle disposed on the elongate member, and a tip disposed on an end of the elongate member, wherein the tip comprises a second internal fluid passageway in fluid communication with the first internal passageway, and a flexible hose connection disposed on the elongate member, wherein the connection is disposed between the first end and the second end and the connection is in fluid communication with the first internal passageway.

Abstract: An emergency rescue device and system are provided comprising a plurality of reflective emergency rescue strands. The plurality of reflective strands are housed within a canister. An activation element deploys the reflective strands away from the user in a multi-directional pattern. In the case of an avalanche victim, the reflective strands enable immediate visual identification of the general location of the victim. A rescuer may then pull on one of the exposed strands to exactly locate the victim. The reflective strands may be ejected away from the user in a number of ways to include activation of a combustible propellant, an explosive charge, or compressed source of gas integrated within the canister. Alternatively, a plurality of compressed springs within the canister may be used to eject the reflective strands, or the user may manually deploy the strands.

Abstract: A marker for a golf course and a method for using the marker that can have a changeable message. The marker can have a transparent plastic outer body, a display means, a changeable message and an anchoring device. There can also be an adhesive pad that can connect the anchoring device to the transparent plastic outer body. The display means can be visible through eh transparent foldable plastic outer body.

Abstract: A utility location indicator apparatus for indicating the location and general direction of lie of an underground utility includes a marker being configured to extend upwardly from a utility pipe to indicate a location of the utility pipe under a ground surface. The marker is elongated to extend upwardly through the ground over the utility pipe. A plurality of incremental indicia is positioned on the marker and incrementally extending along a length of the marker. The incremental indicia is configured to indicate a depth of the ground positioned over the utility pipe to alert a user to the depth the user can dig before encountering the utility pipe. A saddle is integrally coupled to a first end of the marker. The saddle is configured to extend over a portion of a circumference of the utility pipe to maintain alignment of said marker with the utility pipe.

Abstract: A method and device to navigate excavation towards a target buried in an excavatable material, for example excavation near an underground pipeline by excavation equipment. The device generally comprises indicating material arranged to be buried in the ground in proximity to the target. The indicating material is arranged to be frangible for permitting a portion of the indicating material to be removed from a remainder either by tearing, separation at separated sections or separation at perforated lines of severance. Different visual proximity indicators on the indicating material cause different sections of the indicating material to be visually distinct from one another corresponding to different degrees of proximity to the target. In use, the indicating material is placed in the ground and excavation towards the target results in portions of the material being removed. Proximity is indicated by associating which section a removed portion of the indicating material corresponds with.