Abstract: Disclosed and described herein are embodiments of an articulated utility pole that facilitates repair and/or reinstallation in the event of damage to the pole caused by wind loading (e.g., storms), trees or other items striking the utility lines, collisions with the poles, and the like. Also disclosed herein are methods of repairing and/or re-installing the articulated utility pole. Further disclosed herein are components for fabricating an articulated utility pole.

Abstract: Disclosed and described herein are embodiments of an articulated utility pole that facilitates repair and/or reinstallation in the event of damage to the pole caused by wind loading (e.g., storms), trees or other items striking the utility lines, collisions with the poles, and the like. Also disclosed herein are methods of repairing and/or re-installing the articulated utility pole. Further disclosed herein are components for fabricating an articulated utility pole.

Abstract: Disclosed and described herein are embodiments of an articulated utility pole that facilitates repair and/or reinstallation in the event of damage to the pole caused by wind loading (e.g., storms), trees or other items striking the utility lines, collisions with the poles, and the like. Also disclosed herein are methods of repairing and/or re-installing the articulated utility pole. Further disclosed herein are components for fabricating an articulated utility pole.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system, method and apparatus for irrigation control and data management. According to a preferred embodiment, an irrigation control system may include a data collection module which receives and stores system data generated by sensors and supporting systems including irrigation, drive, weather, sensor and electrical systems of a mechanized irrigation system. According to preferred embodiments, the system preferably also includes a system control module which transmits system control instructions to system components. Additionally, the present invention also includes a display module which provides a display of graphical user interfaces embedded with system data and selectable control instructions.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system, method and apparatus for irrigation control and data management. According to a preferred embodiment, an irrigation control system may include a data collection module which receives and stores system data generated by sensors and supporting systems including irrigation, drive, weather, sensor and electrical systems of a mechanized irrigation system. According to preferred embodiments, the system preferably also includes a system control module which transmits system control instructions to system components. Additionally, the present invention also includes a display module which provides a display of graphical user interfaces embedded with system data and selectable control instructions.

Abstract: The invention provides an elongated structure comprising a pole having a wall around a hollow core as a tubular body part extending along a length axis. A base section of the wall of the tubular body part is connected to an H-shaped frame extending from a foot of the pole along the length axis, said H-shaped frame being arranged in the core. The wall at the location of the H-shaped frame is provided with a door, said door in closed position being flush with the wall and in opened position providing access to the core.

Abstract: A self-rightening post system is configured to secure a post in a casing in a desired or vertical orientation and to self-righten the post upon the removal of a deflecting force, such as from a car or lawnmower. A self-rightening post system utilizes a plurality of adjustable retainer assemblies that are configured between the post and the inside surface of the casing to produce a self-rightening force upon deflection of the post. The plurality of adjustable retainer assemblies may be configured around the post and/or on opposing sides of the post to ensure that the post will self-righten regardless of the direction of a deflecting force. The casing may be a tube and the self-rightening post system may allow the post to rotate within the casing thereby allowing a user to change a desired rotational orientation.

Abstract: A striking assembly for martial arts training is provided. The striking assembly includes a base plate configured to be secured to the ground, a support unit having a support plate and a post extending from the support plate, and a striking unit having a main body configured to receive a portion of the post and a striking pad covering at least a portion of the main body. The support plate and the base plate are connected by three or more resiliently deformable isolators. In response to striking impacts, the isolators resiliently deform to create a deflection angle between a normal to the support plate and a normal to the base plate, and resiliently return to their undeformed dimensions at the conclusion of the striking impact such that the normal to the support plate returns to being substantially parallel to the normal to the base plate.

Abstract: A modular anti-impact protection, comprising a main module (10), comprising: an outer body (11), which has at least one internal cavity; an inner body (12), provided with at least one internal cavity, and configured to be inserted at least partially into the cavity of the outer body (11).

Abstract: A support device for a hollow traffic marker utilizing a base having a foot positioned at the ground surface. A boss extends from the base. A flexible sleeve positions over the outer surface of the boss, the hollow traffic marker lies within the flexible sleeve. A gap within the flexible sleeve separates the first and second spacers.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a joint device (9) for mounting a sign post (95) or the like, comprising a first member (1) being connectable to a basis (99), and a second member (2) being connectable to a base portion (96a) of the sign post (95). A linkage (3) connects the first member (1) to the second member (2) such that the second member (2) is movable with respect to the first member (1) between an alignment position and a tilting position. A restoring means (4) which comprises an elastic element (40) and a deforming element (45) for cooperation with the elastic element (40) returns the two members (1, 2) towards the alignment position. The elastic element (40) is received in an interior pipe storage space (25) which is recessed in the first member (1) and the second member (2).

Abstract: Traffic monitoring apparatus with a housing 1, which has several longitudinal profiles 2, 3, 4, 5, which are aligned parallel to a vertical axis H and which are arranged circumferentially around the vertical axis H and enclose an inner housing chamber 18, wherein at least one of the longitudinal profiles 2, 3, 4, 5 has an outer wall 6, forming the outer face 8, and an inner wall 7, forming the inner face 9, facing to the inner housing chamber 18.

Abstract: In one embodiment, an electric vehicle charging station comprises a body attached to a base, wherein the base is operably connected to a deflector mechanism, wherein the body moves from a rest position disposed along a major axis of the electric vehicle charging station to an impact position, with an articulation angle disposed therebetween, upon an impact having a force greater than or equal to 5 kiloNewtons.

Abstract: A sign assembly includes a base, a pair of spring members, and a panel. The spring members include a resilient portion that includes attachment means at a first end to enable attachment of the spring member to the base. The spring members also include a generally straight rod that extends from a second end of the resilient portion. The panel defines a pair of openings at a lower edge configured to slidably receive the rod of the spring members. The amount by which the rod slides into the panel is configured to secure the panel in an upright position.

Abstract: An advertising system for a bollard includes a bollard shield that can be installed over a conventional bollard. The bollard shield includes a shield inner diameter greater than the bollard outer diameter, forming a shield gap between the bollard and the bollard shield. One or more compressible foam pads are positioned in the shield gap between the bollard and the bollard shield. A resilient bollard sheath can be rolled onto the bollard shield. The bollard sheath includes advertising or graphical materials disposed thereon. The bollard sheath is generally replaceable without replacing the entire bollard shield. A removable sheath panel may be detachably secured on the bollard sheath to provide additional advertising or graphical material. The sheath panel may be interchangeably and replaced with additional sheath panels having different advertising information.

Abstract: Present invention relates to a connecting piece connecting legs (13) and a crossbar (10) of a free-standing portable display sign particularly suitable for installation in outdoor.

Abstract: A self-positioning light fixture having an elongated body with a bottom self-righting segment. The elongated body comprises a pair of elongated body portions mateable along a vertical parting plane with components of the light fixture, such as the shock mount for the lamp assembly, an air circulating fan, and counterweights, being retained and supported within the body portions as an incident to assembly and securement of the body portions. The self-righting segment and counterweights are designed for optimally uprighting the fixture from tipped positions with minimum counterweighting and without excessive force or rocking movement of the fixture. Further features of the light fixture include air vent openings in the body that prevent or minimize entry of rain water and contaminants, an easily accessible gripping handle for facilitating movement of the light fixture, and a reflector shield adapted for easy selective positioning about the lamp assembly for the desired light direction.

Abstract: An alignment guide for maintaining perpendicularity between an elongated anchor rail secured to an overhead support and a sign supporting elongated adjustment rail, comprising: a guide housing having an anchor rail receiving channel arranged across an upper surface thereof; an adjustment rail receiving channel arranged across a lower side of the guide housing, wherein the anchor rail receiving channel and the adjustment rail receiving channel are perpendicular to one another.

Abstract: A clear protective cover on a roadway marker for protecting reflective sheeting located on the marker. The protective cover prevents the reflective sheeting from being displaced from the marker when impacted, for example, by vehicle. The protective cover can be formed from a clear, high-impact strength, polycarbonate material. A stiffening element located within the roadway marker increases the stiffness and resiliency of the roadway marker. The stiffening element provides more spring to return the roadway marker back to a substantially erect position after being deflected, for example, by a vehicle. The stiffening element can be a formed from a hard material such as PVC and can have the shape of a ball, cylinder, puck, oblong, or other suitable shape.

Abstract: A flexible marker post assembly having a base, first and second members of an elastomeric material secured to the base and extending upwardly therefrom, the first and second flexible members each having respective first and second side walls with a concave recess formed on each of the side walls, substantially rigid post mounted intermediate of an upper portion of the first and second flexible members with the post having a lower end secured to an upper portion of the first and second flexible members. The provision of concave recesses permits a better bending action when the post is struck at an angle.

Abstract: The method of providing non-stop mowing access to a street sign comprising of providing a support for a street sign which moves from a first position in the path of the mower blade to a second position out of the path of the mower blade as the mower blade approaches, and providing that the support for the street sign moves back from the second position to the first position when the mower blade has passed the street sign.

Abstract: A cable marker pole system is described for marking the location of buried utility cabling. The cable marker pole system includes a base for embedding in earth or concrete, and a two-part pole assembly that couples with the base. The two-part pole assembly includes a spring coupling the two pole members to allow the pole assembly to flex if struck. A sign is attached to the top of the pole assembly to indicate what is buried.

Abstract: A self-righting post assembly includes an elastomeric hinge tube and an elastomeric inner member is disposed in the hinge tube. In one embodiment, an extension post is disposed over the hinge tube. A sign panel can be secured to the extension post. In one embodiment, the inner member is free of any engagement with the hinge tube. In one embodiment, the hinge tube is secured to a base, preferably with a vertically oriented fastener. A method of assembling the post assembly is also provided.

Abstract: A bendable mailbox or sign post comprises a foundation defined at one of a dirt, a concrete, and an asphalt surface. A top assembly releasably couples with the foundation and has a plate and a stub extending upward from the plate. The elongated post extends vertically from a bottom end connected with the top assembly. A resilient interconnection is provided between the post and the top assembly, whereby the post pivots about the bottom end and deflects from its vertical orientation when a lateral force is applied to the post and the post returns to the vertical orientation when no lateral force is applied. A frangible interconnection may be provided between the resilient interconnection member and one of the post and the stub.

Abstract: A post structure for installation along a street or road with a base supporting the post structure in a yieldable manner. A coupling joining the base and post structure includes a resilient member urging the post structure into a normal, pre-determined position on the base. An upper end of the base serves as a fulcrum for momentary post structure movement. A modified form of the yieldable support includes a housing with spring and fastener assembly with the housing having inclined surfaces which cooperate with inclined surfaces on the base upper end, insuring return of the tipped post structure back to the pre-determined relationship with the base after momentary displacement.

Abstract: There is provided a knock down signpost comprising a post member (6) and a lower body member (10) held together by a spring (3) having a preload when the post is vertical, acting two flat surfaces (8) creating an initial resistance to motion off the horizontal. Two steel cables (114) transmit the force of the spring and are spaced apart which allows the cables to act as a non rotation mechanism. Two round protrusions (16) in the post member (6) locate into two matching clearance holes (14) in the lower body for post alignment. A shock tube (4) is fitted over the cable and internal to the spring to prevent over compression and provides a mechanical stop. As the top assembly is rotated chamfered edges (15) of the post member (6) engage and interlock into an annular groove (13) to act as a pseudo-hinge.

Abstract: A structure (26) for supporting an array (22) of solar panels (24) in a solar energy collection system (20) includes a support assembly (42) formed from a rigid subassembly (44). The subassembly (44) includes a truss (68), a post (46) downwardly extending from the truss (68) for attachment to a footing (48), and posts (50) upwardly extending from the truss (68). The structure (26) further includes torsion tubes (34), each of which is pivotally retained by one of the posts (50) to form parallel rows (32) of torsion tubes (34). Multiple ganged piers (44) can be interconnected to increase the number of rows (32) of the system (20). The solar panels (24) are attached to the torsion tubes (34) to form the array (22). Each of the torsion tubes (34) may have a flat surface (164) for ready alignment and attachment of solar panels (24) onto the torsion tubes (34).

Abstract: An emergency signaling apparatus includes a portable base member, a telescopically adjustable and rectilinear pole, a plurality of brackets, and a flag directly coupled to the brackets and adaptable between compressed and expanded positions when the brackets are displaced along a longitudinal length of the pole. A mechanism is included for simultaneously articulating and linearly displacing the pole about at least two mutually exclusive axes respectively in such a manner that the flag is automatically returned to an equilibrium position defined along a vertically oriented plane after being biased about the at least two mutually exclusive axes.

Abstract: A marking device and a method for implementing the marking device is provided, where the marking device includes a marker base configured to be positioned within soil and a marker visual element, wherein the marker visual element is movably configurable between a first configuration and a second configuration relative to the marker base, wherein when the marker visual element is in the first configuration, the marker visual element is not easily seen from a distance and when the marker visual element is in the second configuration, the marker visual element is easily seen from a distance.

Abstract: A mount for mounting a sign to the post of an associated structure includes a base element fixedly mounted to the post that defines a hinge region and a base plane, and a support arm having a shoulder mounted at the shoulder to the base element. The support arm is pivotable about the base element between a first position parallel to the base plane and a second position transverse to the base plane. A pair of springs extend between and connect the base element and the support arm. The base element and the support arm are engaged with one another, and are maintained engaged with one another, only by the tension of the springs.

Abstract: A flexible route marker post which comprises an upright post having an upper end and a lower end, the lower end having first and second flexible members secured thereto, the lower end of the flexible members being secured to a base, the arrangement being such that there is a bending zone in between the upright post and the base. The upper end and the lower end of the post have a reinforcing material extending thereabout.

Abstract: A self-righting post assembly includes an elastomeric hinge tube and an elastomeric inner member is disposed in the hinge tube. In one embodiment, an extension post is disposed over the hinge tube. A sign panel can be secured to the extension post. In one embodiment, the inner member is free of any engagement with the hinge tube. In one embodiment, the hinge tube is secured to a base, preferably with a vertically oriented fastener. A method of assembling the post assembly is also provided.

Abstract: A deflectable sign spring base includes a bracket. A torsion spring between walls of the bracket walls includes first and second spring posts. The first spring post contacts a first bracket edge and the second spring post contacts an opposed second bracket edge. Spacing between the first and second edges is greater than the spring post spacing for a non-loaded spring. Spring post engagement with the edges separates the spring posts and induces a torsion spring preload force. A mast engaging member is rotatably connected to the bracket and in continuous contact with both spring posts. The member and mast are continuously urged to a vertical orientation by the torsion spring preload force until acted on by a second force overcoming the preload force, the preload force thereafter returning the member and mast to the vertical orientation after the second force is removed.

Abstract: A load assembly for a self-uprighting delineator which moves from a first upright position to a second yielded or deflected position upon impact and returns to the upright position after impact. The assembly has upper and lower cell elements that have cooperating and complimentary alignment members in the form of notches and ridges. When the assembly is twisted, the alignment members cause the upper and lower cells to properly align the spring loaded cables passing through cable passages in the elements.

Abstract: A signal to warn of the open condition of a sub-grade vault whose lid may be open or missing. A spring-loaded placard is held down in the vault by a closed lid and raises above the opening by its own stored energy when the lid is open or missing.

Abstract: A flag assembly includes an elongated and rectilinear shaft having opposed end portions situated adjacent a ground surface. The shaft includes a banner attached to one of the end portions having surface indicia imprinted thereon. A protective cover member is provided with a centrally registered countersunk bore situated therebelow. A frusto-conical spring member having axially opposed first and second end portions is conjoined to another end portion of the shaft and extends downwardly away therefrom along a vertical plane respectively. A bushing having a monolithically formed lower portion provided with a tapered diameter is inwardly offset from a diameter of the shaft. The bushing further has an axially registered upper portion operably conjoined to the spring member and cooperating with the shaft such that the spring member can be resiliently adapted between compressed and equilibrium positions to absorb vertically channeled impact forces encountered during installation procedures.

Abstract: A highway marker device is provided for marking the location of an object, such as a culvert, located adjacent to a highway. The marker device is comprised of a coil spring having a first end and a second end, wherein the coil spring is comprised of a plurality of windings around a spring axis. Further, a marker post is connected with the first end of the coil spring, wherein the marker post has a post axis and wherein the post axis is substantially perpendicular to the spring axis. Finally, the marker device is comprised of a mounting mechanism for connecting the device with the object such that the coil spring is substantially restrained from bending about the spring axis.

Abstract: A portable vehicle parking assistance device has a base and a vertical shaft to which is coupled a motion detecting sensor and an alerting mechanism; namely, a light or horn. The device also has a combination carbon monoxide and smoke detector, which is linked to the alerting mechanism. When the device is bumped by a vehicle during use or when the combination carbon monoxide and smoke detector detects the presence of these fumes, the alerting mechanism is actuated, thereby notifying the vehicle operator.

Abstract: A vehicular barrier post includes an upper tubular portion and a lower tubular stand-off. The upper portion is joined to a rocking base having a tubular bottom portion telescopically received in the stand-off. The upper end of a tension spring is secured to the upper body portion by a pin. The lower end of the spring is attached to a tension member, such as a chain, which passes through the stand-off so as to be received in a hole in a suitable external support. The chain is pulled past the external support and when the spring is appropriately tensioned, a locking pin is passed through the chain, preventing its reverse travel through the external support. The upper body portion is allowed to freely rock about the stand-off.

Abstract: An ornament display device configured to be mounted on a button or similar shaped member found on the top of conventional hats or the like. The display device of the present invention includes a base configured to be releasably mounted over the button, a flexible stem mounted on the top of the base and extending upwardly, and an ornament or signage member mounted on the upper end of the stem. The device of the present invention permits the ornament or signage member to be removably mounted on a convention athletic hat or cap in a highly visible manner attracting attention to the displayed ornament.

Abstract: An adjustable ornamental display apparatus includes a base with an upstanding support post releasably received therein. A mounting bracket having a pair of mounting arms is attached to an upper end of the support post. The apparatus includes a display board having front and back panels and having a configuration indicative of a festive occasion. The back panel defines a plurality of vertically spaced slots in parallel series, each slot having a configuration complementary to that of the mounting arms such that the display board may be coupled to the support post at selectable vertical positions through a mating relationship between selected slots and the mounting arms. The front panel defines a plurality of holes with each hole being initially covered with a perforated material that may be selectively punctured by rearwardly extending prongs of hanger brackets. The brackets are adapted to support ornaments corresponding to the festive occasion.

Abstract: The invention provides a portable, collapsible sign stand assembly in which a sign is suspended from a support tube. The support tube is connected to a support base through a connecting member which includes a plurality of weakening members which cause the connecting member to fail upon impact.

Abstract: A display fixture is provided for mounting to shelving in a retail store and presenting products or advertising so as to be more readily visible to the customer walking down the aisle. The display feature includes a mount, a coupler integrally provided with the mount for attachment of the mount to an upright surface such as a support of shelving or other retail displays, a display arm swingably carried by the mount, and a centering device on the extension arm which is positioned for receipt in a depression such as a hole in the mount. In a centered position, the display arm has an extension arm portion which extends preferably perpendicular to the upright surface with the centering device received in the depression, and which swings freely from the centered position with gravity returning the display arm to the centered position without the need for springs or other biasing devices.

Abstract: A vehicular barrier post includes an upper tubular portion and a lower tubular stand-off. The upper portion is joined to a rocking base having a tubular bottom portion telescopically received in the stand-off. The upper end of a tension spring is secured to the upper body portion by a pin. The lower end of the spring is attached to a tension member, such as a chain, which passes through the stand-off so as to be received in a hole in a suitable external support. The chain is pulled past the external support and when the spring is appropriately tensioned, a locking pin is passed through the chain, preventing its reverse travel through the external support. The upper body portion is allowed to freely rock about the stand-off.

Abstract: A sign stand has a mast with a flexible upper portion. The flexible upper portion of the mast inhibits the mast from piercing a windshield of a vehicle when the sign stand is struck by the vehicle. The sign stand may have a sign mounted on the mast flexible upper portion. Additionally, a top end of the mast flexible upper portion extends beyond a top edge of the sign. The mast flexible upper portion may have other items attached to it, such as a flag holder, a light mounting bracket, a light, or sign mounting brackets. The sign mounted to the flexible upper mast may be metal, such as aluminum, composite materials, or fabric. The mast also has a lower portion that is connected to a support stand. The mast lower portion may be flexibly connected to the support stand. The mast may be made up of two or more parts. The mast may be telescopic. The upper and lower portions of the mast may be in a telescopic relationship.

Abstract: A display fixture is provided for mounting to shelving in a retail store and presenting products or advertising so as to be more readily visible to the customer walking down the aisle. The display feature includes a mount, a coupler for attachment of the mount to an upright surface such as a support of shelving or other retail displays, a display arm swingably carried by the mount, and a centering device on the extension arm which is positioned for receipt in a depression such as a hole in the mount. In a centered position, the display arm has an extension arm portion which extends perpendicular to the upright surface with the centering device received in the depression, and which swings freely from the centered position with gravity returning the display arm to the centered position without the need for springs or other biasing devices.

Abstract: An improved monitor for sports stadiums consisting of a module, which adopts a flat parallelepiped shape, and is fitted on its front side with a display screen, The module is supported by a structure comprising a frame, a base and two shock absorbers mounted between the base and frame to permit backward movement of the frame upon impact. The display screen is based on light emitting diode (LED) technology suitable for displaying moving images and advertisements, covered by a polycarbonate sheet, and contains a hemispherical protrusion that is fitted around each of the light points formed by the light emitting diodes. The shock absorbers are adjustable via holes in the base and frame and there is a handle and latch to permit easy transport of the monitor.

Abstract: A portable sign stand comprising a base, at least one leg attached to the base at at least one attachment point, and a sign supporting member pivotally mounted to the base at a pivot point. The pivot point is disposed at a lower position on the base than all of the attachment points.

Abstract: A system of stanchions used to warn about the depth of a swimming pool. The stanchions stand upright and carry a “no dive” warning message about the depth of the pool. Each stanchion can have a flexible base that allows it to flex from a generally vertical position to a horizontal position if someone bumps into it. The stanchions can be read from any direction of approach. The height of the stanchion indicates the depth of the bottom of the pool adjacent to where it is standing.

Abstract: A system and method for warning an individual of entry into an unsafe zone, particularly one that includes a floor or overhead conveyor, comprises a plurality of flexible upright members. The members are arranged to cover or affront the unsafe zone and are at a height so that an individual will contact and deform the members. Such contact then warns the individual that he or she is entering or approaching an unsafe zone. The flexible upright members can be arranged in separable or integral fashion on one or more bases. When using a plurality of bases, the bases can be sized and arranged to cover or abut any configuration of an unsafe zone.