Abstract: A barrier structure includes at least one panel disposed to extend generally along a fence line, the panel having an engaging element for pivotal joining of the panel to a member of the structure (such as a post or another panel). The engaging element includes an arcuate surface that extends from a proximal region of the engaging element to a distal end thereof. The arcuate surface has a predetermined radius of curvature that exceeds the length of the engaging element between the proximal region and the distal end.

Abstract: A free standing barrier structure consists of two or more modular panels of height and length significantly greater than thickness, disposed to extend generally along a fence line, and a connector for pivotal joining of adjacent modular panels. Each connector consists of a cylinder element of a first diameter and having an upper surface and a lower surface, and a rod element of a second diameter relatively smaller than the first diameter, the cylinder element and rod element being joined in coaxial arrangement. Each modular panel defines at least one vertical tunnel adjacent each end, each tunnel defining a first portion of size and diameter for receiving the cylinder element snuggly therewithin and further defining a second portion, coaxial with the first portion, of diameter for receiving the rod element therewithin, and joiners for connectors in tunnels of adjacent modular panels.

Abstract: A post and panel barrier system employs posts which are contoured to provide a constant maximum bending stress for anticipated wind pressure distributions. Posts and associated panel assemblies permit adjacent panels to meet at angles ranging from 0.degree. to 360.degree.. Panel assemblies used in the barrier system may be folded so that thermal movement and spacing tolerances are automatically compensated. Posts and panels may be decoupled to allow relative vertical displacements.

Abstract: Panels have tensioning formations at their edges that are engaged upon support members via resilient compressive loadbearing elements. In the constructions shown the tensioning formations comprise integral, semicylindrical edge portions of the panels and the load-bearing elements comprise mating resilient rods inserted into the semicylindrical formations. The panels are relatively thin extrusions of transparent polycarbonate resin forming an acoustical barrier structure. Thermal expansion and contraction is accommodated by mutual action of the panels and the resilient load-bearing elements. A transparent acoustical barrier wall along a highway and a noise barrier canopy over a rapid transit line are shown.

Abstract: Sound/noise barriers are shown that are useful along a noise source such as a rail or other right of way or next to a utility substation. The barriers have a profile characterized generally by an upwardly extending noise barrier wall and an upper, sideways projecting element. The wall reflects the noise to an advantageous point for absorption while the sideways projecting element performs a number of simultaneous functions. In various embodiments it serves as a barrier for upwardly reflected noise; as a protector, against the weather for sound absorptive devices, in particular sound absorptive materials that lie below it; as an emergency or safety walkway; as a beam strength structural element; as a support for another barrier placed above it; as a base in cases where the barrier is reversed for operation in a different mode; and as a cooperative element with noise baffles such as may be attached to rail cars and other noise sources.