Abstract: The forming of sonic noise alert pattern, (SNAP), type depressions using a milling through procedure. A cutting head, having a smaller diameter than would fit the resultant depression, is used. Elevational control of the cutting head is regulated by passage across the surface under treatment. Repetitive cycling of this elevational control is used to install a series of depressions. The elevational control results in a gradual lowering and gradual raising of the cutting head. During cutting a significant longitudinal distance is traveled by the cutting head. Cam wheels are disclosed for providing the elevational control. Various transfer means are discussed to transfer the elevational control to the cutting head. These include direct transfer and reverse transfer. Proportional transfer is explained with examples given. Example machines are detailed capable of practicing the invention.

Abstract: The use of impact force to cause an impression to be transferred to an asphalt road surface in a repetitive manner to form a series of depressions. The use of hydraulic, pneumatic and gravity drop as power sources are discussed. Imprint plates having single impression or a plurality of impressions are disclosed. Various shapes for the resulting depressions are explained including a shape that matches current milled depressions. Several methods of installing the series are discussed including stationary stamping, where the machine is paused during stamping, continuous stamping and continuous machine movement with imprint plate pause relative to the surface under treatment. The latter discloses a methodology wherein the imprint plate is transferred rearward on the transport vehicle at a pace equal to the advance of the transport vehicle. Various gauging means are explained to ensure that the resulting depressions are within predetermined parameters which prevent overstamping and understamping.

Abstract: The use of a cam member having a plurality of camming groups to cause a raising and lowering motion to be transferred to a cutting head to install a series of SNAP depressions in the surface of an asphalt road. Two cutting methods are disclosed, the first allowing cutting through the cut, the second allowing a near plunge cut to be made. Cutting through the cut permits a smaller diameter cutting drum than would fit the resulting cut while providing for a smooth action to the cutting procedure. A near plunge cut permits adaptation of existing equipment utilizing current use cutting drum which diameter approximate the shape of the resulting cut. Proper spacing is ensured by having the cam member in direct communication with the surface under treatment with movement provided by the installing machine. The optional adaptation of a skip pattern within the series is taught.

Abstract: A machine and method of use to form Sonic Noise Alert Pattern (SNAP) type depressions in the surface of an asphalt road in a series to line the edge or center of a road. The machine installs a plurality of depressions in a group during a single cutting procedure. A repetition of these cutting procedures results in the desired series being formed. The machine has a single rotary type milling head with spaced sets of bits which will engage the surface of the road. Only where the spaced sets contact the surface will the cutting action be performed. From a stationary position an initial plunge cut brings the rotary cutting head in contact with the surface. Then a lateral movement of the rotary cutting head results in elongating and forming the desired sized depressions. Then the rotary cutting head is raised, the machine is advanced and the prior steps are repeated in repetition until the desired number of depressions have been formed.

Abstract: A machine that cuts sonic noise alert pattern (SNAP) depressions into the upper surface of asphalt highways. This machine is designed to cut depressions having a rectangular shape, with opposing transitional edges, which are relatively perpendicular to the edge of the road surface, and each have a smooth, even transition from the road surface to the cut depression. Further having a predetermined, but variable, depth along the center of the depression cut, with this center of the cut located at a relatively midpoint between the transitional edges. Additionally having an uniform section of virgin, uncut, asphalt located between each set of adjacent depression cuts. The machine, which has at least one rotating cutting head, moves longitudinally, relative to the desired placement of the individual cuts, in a non-stop, uninterrupted manner.