Patents by Inventor Robert E. Townsend, Jr.

Robert E. Townsend, Jr. has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 8810432
    Abstract: Methods and apparatuses are provided for improved traffic control devices including a continuous central hanger support system that is integral to the traffic control device and provides a central load path. In an embodiment of the invention, the terminal housing and traffic signal housing of the traffic control device can be included in a single unit housing. A single unit housing can also include an integral backplate. Also provided are span wire clamps, tether clamps, and mast arm clamps that can be used to affix the continuous central hanger of the traffic control device to various fixtures such as a single span wire, two span wires, a pole or a mast arm. The continuous central hanger integrated with the single unit housing can provide the traffic control device with improved securement of electrical components and structural stability for survivability during high wind events as compared to conventional traffic signal devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Inventor: Robert E. Townsend, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8749402
    Abstract: Reinforcement devices and systems for holding a traffic control assembly in compression are provided. The traffic control assembly includes a traffic signal disconnect hanger and/or a traffic signal and a first span wire positioned above the traffic control assembly. In some embodiments, the reinforcement device includes an upper support device connected to the first span wire where the upper support device has a length that is greater than a width of the traffic control assembly and the upper support device is configured to spread the load of the traffic signal assembly to the first span wire. The reinforcement device includes a lower support device operably connected to the traffic signal, a first vertical support member, and a second vertical support member where the first and second vertical members are tensioned when the upper support device, the lower support device and the first and second vertical support members are connected together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Inventor: Robert E. Townsend, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8659445
    Abstract: Reinforcement devices and systems for holding a traffic control assembly in compression are provided. The traffic control assembly includes a traffic signal disconnect hanger and/or a traffic signal and a first span wire positioned above the traffic control assembly. In some embodiments, the reinforcement device includes an upper support device connected to the first span wire where the upper support device has a length that is greater than a width of the traffic control assembly and the upper support device is configured to spread the load of the traffic signal assembly to the first span wire. The reinforcement device includes a lower support device operably connected to the traffic signal, a first vertical support member, and a second vertical support member where the first and second vertical members are tensioned when the upper support device, the lower support device and the first and second vertical support members are connected together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Inventor: Robert E. Townsend, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20140048669
    Abstract: Reinforcement devices and systems for holding a traffic control assembly in compression are provided. The traffic control assembly includes a traffic signal disconnect hanger and/or a traffic signal and a first span wire positioned above the traffic control assembly. In some embodiments, the reinforcement device includes an upper support device connected to the first span wire where the upper support device has a length that is greater than a width of the traffic control assembly and the upper support device is configured to spread the load of the traffic signal assembly to the first span wire. The reinforcement device includes a lower support device operably connected to the traffic signal, a first vertical support member, and a second vertical support member where the first and second vertical members are tensioned when the upper support device, the lower support device and the first and second vertical support members are connected together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2013
    Publication date: February 20, 2014
    Inventor: Robert E. Townsend, JR.
  • Publication number: 20140042288
    Abstract: Methods and apparatuses are provided for improved traffic control devices including a continuous central hanger support system that is integral to the traffic control device and provides a central load path. In an embodiment of the invention, the terminal housing and traffic signal housing of the traffic control device can be included in a single unit housing. A single unit housing can also include an integral backplate. Also provided are span wire clamps, tether clamps, and mast arm clamps that can be used to affix the continuous central hanger of the traffic control device to various fixtures such as a single span wire, two span wires, a pole or a mast arm. The continuous central hanger integrated with the single unit housing can provide the traffic control device with improved securement of electrical components and structural stability for survivability during high wind events as compared to conventional traffic signal devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2013
    Publication date: February 13, 2014
    Inventor: Robert E. Townsend, JR.
  • Publication number: 20130248673
    Abstract: Methods and apparatuses are provided for improved traffic control devices including a continuous central hanger support system that is integral to the traffic control device and provides a central load path. In an embodiment of the invention, the terminal housing and traffic signal housing of the traffic control device can be included in a single unit housing. A single unit housing can also include an integral backplate. Embodiments with an integral backplate can provide a solar energy generation system that utilizes a traffic signal's exterior surface as a substratum to secure thin-film photo cell laminates (TFPVL). The continuous central hanger integrated with the single unit housing can provide the traffic control device with improved securement of electrical components and structural stability for survivability during high wind events as compared to conventional traffic signal devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Applicant: CENTRAL PATH SIGNAL TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventor: Robert E. Townsend, JR.
  • Patent number: 8540392
    Abstract: Methods and apparatuses are provided for improved traffic control devices including a continuous central hanger support system that is integral to the traffic control device and provides a central load path. In an embodiment of the invention, the terminal housing and traffic signal housing of the traffic control device can be included in a single unit housing. A single unit housing can also include an integral backplate. Also provided are span wire clamps, tether clamps, and mast arm clamps that can be used to affix the continuous central hanger of the traffic control device to various fixtures such as a single span wire, two span wires, a pole or a mast arm. The continuous central hanger integrated with the single unit housing can provide the traffic control device with improved securement of electrical components and structural stability for survivability during high wind events as compared to conventional traffic signal devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Inventor: Robert E. Townsend, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20130241380
    Abstract: Reinforcement devices and systems for holding a traffic control assembly in compression are provided. The traffic control assembly includes a traffic signal disconnect hanger and/or a traffic signal and a first span wire positioned above the traffic control assembly. In some embodiments, the reinforcement device includes an upper support device connected to the first span wire where the upper support device has a length that is greater than a width of the traffic control assembly and the upper support device is configured to spread the load of the traffic signal assembly to the first span wire. The reinforcement device includes a lower support device operably connected to the traffic signal, a first vertical support member, and a second vertical support member where the first and second vertical members are tensioned when the upper support device, the lower support device and the first and second vertical support members are connected together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2013
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Inventor: Robert E. Townsend, JR.
  • Publication number: 20130146733
    Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods for reinforcing a traffic control assembly are provided. In some embodiments, a retrofitted traffic control assembly configured to reinforce a traffic signal assembly in high wind conditions is provided. The reinforcement devices include connection assemblies for reinforcing the portion of a traffic control assembly positioned between a traffic signal disconnect hanger or a traffic signal and an upper span wire, for example. In certain embodiments, one or more stiffening members may be placed in, on, or adjacent to a traffic signal and/or a traffic signal disconnect hanger to further reinforce the traffic signal assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2013
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Inventor: Robert E. Townsend, JR.
  • Publication number: 20130095710
    Abstract: Methods and apparatuses are provided for improved traffic control devices including a continuous central hanger support system that is integral to the traffic control device and provides a central load path. In an embodiment of the invention, the terminal housing and traffic signal housing of the traffic control device can be included in a single unit housing. A single unit housing can also include an integral backplate. Also provided are span wire clamps, tether clamps, and mast arm clamps that can be used to affix the continuous central hanger of the traffic control device to various fixtures such as a single span wire, two span wires, a pole or a mast arm. The continuous central hanger integrated with the single unit housing can provide the traffic control device with improved securement of electrical components and structural stability for survivability during high wind events as compared to conventional traffic signal devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2012
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Applicant: Central Path Signal Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: ROBERT E. TOWNSEND, JR.
  • Publication number: 20130087672
    Abstract: The subject invention pertains to traffic signal disconnect housings having curvatural, arcuate-shaped surfaces that better bear and distribute gravitational and wind induced loading throughout the disconnect housing. In addition, structural reinforcements are provided, as well as support components such as removable, elongated hubs; removable doors; and hook-type hinges.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2012
    Publication date: April 11, 2013
    Inventor: Robert E. Townsend, JR.
  • Patent number: 8395531
    Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods for reinforcing a traffic control assembly are provided. In some embodiments, a retrofitted traffic control assembly configured to reinforce a traffic signal assembly in high wind conditions is provided. The reinforcement devices include connection assemblies for reinforcing the portion of a traffic control assembly positioned between a traffic signal disconnect hanger and an upper span wire, for example. In certain embodiments, one or more stiffening members may be placed in, on, or adjacent to a traffic signal and/or a traffic signal disconnect hanger to further reinforce the traffic signal assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Inventor: Robert E. Townsend, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8154425
    Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods for reinforcing a traffic control assembly are provided. In some embodiments, a retrofitted traffic control assembly configured to reinforce a traffic signal assembly in high wind conditions is provided, where the assembly includes a clamping assembly having clamping members that at least partially surround an existing traffic signal disconnect hanger, and bar members positioned substantially perpendicular to the clamping members. In certain embodiments, stiffening members may be placed in, on, or adjacent to a traffic signal and/or a traffic signal disconnect hanger to further reinforce the traffic signal assembly. Also provided are connection assemblies for reinforcing the portion of a traffic control assembly positioned between a traffic signal disconnect hanger and an upper span wire, for example.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Inventor: Robert E. Townsend, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8018350
    Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods for reinforcing a traffic control assembly are provided. In some embodiments, a retrofitted traffic control assembly configured to reinforce a traffic signal assembly in high wind conditions is provided, where the assembly includes a clamping assembly having clamping members that at least partially surround an existing traffic signal disconnect hanger, and bar members positioned substantially perpendicular to the clamping members. In certain embodiments, stiffening members may be placed in, on, or adjacent to a traffic signal and/or a traffic signal disconnect hanger to further reinforce the traffic signal assembly. Also provided are connection assemblies for reinforcing the portion of a traffic control assembly positioned between a traffic signal disconnect hanger and an upper span wire, for example.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Inventor: Robert E. Townsend, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20110155872
    Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods for reinforcing a traffic control assembly are provided. In some embodiments, a retrofitted traffic control assembly configured to reinforce a traffic signal assembly in high wind conditions is provided. The reinforcement devices include connection assemblies for reinforcing the portion of a traffic control assembly positioned between a traffic signal disconnect hanger and an upper span wire, for example. In certain embodiments, one or more stiffening members may be placed in, on, or adjacent to a traffic signal and/or a traffic signal disconnect hanger to further reinforce the traffic signal assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2010
    Publication date: June 30, 2011
    Inventor: Robert E. Townsend, JR.
  • Publication number: 20110089301
    Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods for reinforcing a traffic control assembly are provided. In some embodiments, a retrofitted traffic control assembly configured to reinforce a traffic signal assembly in high wind conditions is provided, where the assembly includes a clamping assembly having clamping members that at least partially surround an existing traffic signal disconnect hanger, and bar members positioned substantially perpendicular to the clamping members. In certain embodiments, stiffening members may be placed in, on, or adjacent to a traffic signal and/or a traffic signal disconnect hanger to further reinforce the traffic signal assembly. Also provided are connection assemblies for reinforcing the portion of a traffic control assembly positioned between a traffic signal disconnect hanger and an upper span wire, for example.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2010
    Publication date: April 21, 2011
    Inventor: Robert E. Townsend, JR.
  • Publication number: 20110089298
    Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods for reinforcing a traffic control assembly are provided. In some embodiments, a retrofitted traffic control assembly configured to reinforce a traffic signal assembly in high wind conditions is provided, where the assembly includes a clamping assembly having clamping members that at least partially surround an existing traffic signal disconnect hanger, and bar members positioned substantially perpendicular to the clamping members. In certain embodiments, stiffening members may be placed in, on, or adjacent to a traffic signal and/or a traffic signal disconnect hanger to further reinforce the traffic signal assembly. Also provided are connection assemblies for reinforcing the portion of a traffic control assembly positioned between a traffic signal disconnect hanger and an upper span wire, for example.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2010
    Publication date: April 21, 2011
    Inventor: Robert E. Townsend, JR.
  • Patent number: 7876236
    Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods for reinforcing a traffic control assembly are provided. In some embodiments, a retrofitted traffic control assembly configured to reinforce a traffic signal assembly in high wind conditions is provided, where the assembly includes a clamping assembly having clamping members that at least partially surround an existing traffic signal disconnect hanger, and bar members positioned substantially perpendicular to the clamping members. In certain embodiments, stiffening members may be placed in, on, or adjacent to a traffic signal and/or a traffic signal disconnect hanger to further reinforce the traffic signal assembly. Also provided are connection assemblies for reinforcing the portion of a traffic control assembly positioned between a traffic signal disconnect hanger and an upper span wire, for example.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: Signal Safe, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert E. Townsend, Jr.