Barrier system

Abstract

A barrier system is provided for absorbing the forces generated during collisions with vehicles. The system includes a plurality of interconnectable modular blocks that have a controlled rate of compression. The blocks connect with one another while allowing pivotable movement. In addition, an anchor system is provided that allows one or more blocks to be secured to the ground or to the floor, while still allowing the secured blocks some degree of pivotable movement.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to barriers. More specifically, the present invention relates to modular vehicle barrier systems.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] In almost any context where a person uses a vehicle, there are a number of potential risks to the safety of that person. One risk is that the vehicle will collide with an object causing injury to the person and/or damage to the vehicle. Often times, such collisions occur with objects that are deliberately placed in specific locations to serve a variety of purposes. For example, a driver will encounter any number of objects along a highway such as telephone or utility poles, highway dividers, or bridge supports to name a few.

[0003] In some contexts, repetitive and frequent collisions are expected. For example, go-kart racing has become particularly popular. In go-karting, the vehicles are relatively small and light; however, the driver is completely exposed and the speeds achieved can be very high. For example, with concession go-karts, speeds of about 40 MPH are common. Concession go-karting generally means that for a fee, a person is allowed to ride a go-kart around a track and is generally available to the public. In go-kart racing, go-karts are currently achieving speeds in excess of 80 MPH, further increasing the risk.

[0004] To define a go-kart course, a rigid structure (e.g., a wall) can be provided to define the course and that structure could then be protected. More commonly, some type of safety barrier is actually utilized to define the course. For example, stacked rubber tires can be bolted or otherwise connected together to define a course having any desired shape. If a go-kart crashes into the barrier, the resiliency of the rubber along with the shape of the tires provide somewhat of a cushioning effect. It had been found that when tires are bolted or otherwise connected together, the structure is surprisingly rigid and is not ideally suited as a track barrier.

[0005] Another type of go-kart track barrier includes a plurality of blocks that are aligned to define the track. A number of these blocks are secured together with a cable that wraps around them, again making the barrier more rigid. This is necessary to prevent the go-kart from simply going through the barrier and striking an object or a person behind the barrier.

[0006] Thus, while barriers are available to provide some degree of safety in different contexts, there exists a need for an improved vehicle safety barrier.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] The present invention, in one embodiment, includes modular block that is pivotably interconnected with one or more other blocks to define a barrier system. The barrier system is extendable to any length and can be used to protect an object or to define a course of any shape, such as a go-kart track. Each modular block is hollow and is provided with an exposed vent. Upon impact, the block collapses to a certain extent. The vent controls the rate at which the contents of the block are expelled under a given force, thus controlling the compression rate of the block. In addition, the contents of the block affect the rate of compression. For example, a block filled with air will compress more rapidly and with greater ease that a block filled with water or sand. A fixed anchor system is provided to secure the end blocks to the ground. The anchor system is fixed to the ground at one end and is coupled to the block at the other end. The anchor system allows for pivotal movement so that the block has some freedom of movement. Anchors can also be used at intermediate points along the barrier to define the contour of the barrier system. The modular blocks are interconnectable through a tab and slot configuration and each modular block can be pivoted with respect to an adjoining block.

[0008] In one embodiment, the present invention is a barrier comprising a plurality of pivotably coupled modular blocks, each having a compressible hollow interior and a vent.

[0009] In another embodiment, the barrier further includes an anchor having a base fixed into a position and an anchor pin rotatably coupled with one of the modular blocks and pivotably coupled to the base.

[0010] In another embodiment, the anchor further comprises a spring coupled between the base and anchor pin, wherein the spring is biased to resist pivotable movement between the anchor pin and the base.

[0011] In another embodiment, the anchor further comprises a base shaft extending from the base in a direction parallel to the anchor pin. The anchor also includes a plate coupling the anchor pin to the spring so that the anchor pin is offset from the base shaft.

[0012] In another embodiment, the present invention includes a plurality of means for absorbing an impact and means for coupling the means for absorbing impact.

[0013] In another embodiment, the present invention is a modular block for use in a barrier system that comprises an upper surface, a lower surface, a first side panel, a second side panel, a proximal end and a distal end that define a hollow interior cavity. The modular block also includes an arcuate proximal tab depending from the proximal end and having a channel therethrough, an upper distal tab depending from the distal end and having a channel therethrough, a lower distal tab depending from the distal end and having a channel therethrough and a distal gap formed between the upper distal tab and the lower distal tab. The distal gap is similar to the proximal tab. The modular block also includes a vent allowing venting of the hollow interior cavity upon compression of the modular block.

[0014] In another embodiment, the present invention is a go-kart track barrier system comprising a plurality of pivotably interconnectable compressible modular blocks, each having a vent to control a rate of compression of the modular blocks, wherein a course of the modular blocks define at a least a portion of the go-kart track. The system also includes an anchor having a first end that is fixed into position and second end pivotably coupled with the first end and rotatably coupled with a modular block.

[0015] In another embodiment, the present invention is a barrier system comprising a plurality of compressible modular blocks, wherein each block includes a proximal tab having a channel therethrough and an arcuate abutting surface. Each block also includes an upper and lower distal tab that define a distal gap wherein the distal gap includes an arcuate receiving surface and the distal gap is shaped to receive a proximal tab from an adjoining modular block, the upper and lower distal tabs each having a channel therethrough so that a connecting pin passing through the channel of the upper and lower distal tabs of a first block and through the channel of the proximal tab of a second block pivotably couple the first block and the second block.

[0016] While multiple embodiments are disclosed, still other embodiments of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description. As will be apparent, the invention is capable of modifications in various obvious aspects, all without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the drawings and detailed description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] FIG. 1 is perspective view of a modular block of a barrier system consistent with the principals of the present invention.

[0018] FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a plurality of modular blocks.

[0019] FIG. 3 is partially sectional, perspective view of an anchor system.

[0020] FIG. 4 is top, planar view illustrating the barrier system wrapped around an object.

[0021] FIG. 5 is a top planar, partially sectional view illustrating a first course of modular blocks interconnected with a second course of modular blocks.

[0022] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a barrier system defining a go-kart racing track.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] In general, the present invention provides a barrier system suitable to absorb and manage the impact of vehicle collisions, while protecting one or more objects and/or defining a course of travel for the vehicle. FIG. 1 illustrates a modular block 10 that is useful in forming such a barrier system. Generally, a plurality of the modular blocks 10 will be interconnected to form the barrier system.

[0024] The modular block 10 is a hollow structure having a proximal end 12 and a distal end 14. Disposed therebetween are a pair of side panels 18 (only one is visible in FIG. 1), an upper surface 20, and a bottom surface 22. The modular block 10 can be constructed from any suitable material that provides sufficient strength to resist the expected collisions while still providing an appropriate degree of flexibility. Plastic, such as low to medium density polyethylene, is one suitable choice in the go-kart context. For larger vehicles traveling at high speeds, such as in NASCAR racing, a stronger material such as polyurethane may be utilized.

[0025] The size of the modular block 10 as well as the thickness of the material will vary depending upon the expected use of the barrier system. For example, for concession go-karts, an exemplary modular block 10 may be about 52 inches in overall length, may have a height of about 20 inches and width of about 16 inches. The wall thickness may be about {fraction (3/16)} of an inch. With these dimensions and thickness, about 50% of the strength of an air filled modular block 10 is utilized when a 450 pound go-kart (weight of go-kart and driver) strikes the block 10 at a speed of 40 MPH. For the higher speed go-kart racing, the wall thickness can be increased and/or a material can be used to fill in the block 10, as explained in greater detail below.

[0026] A vent 24 is provided on a raised portion 25 of the upper surface 20 of the modular block 10. The vent 24 is an orifice into the hollow interior cavity of the modular block 10. When the modular block 10 is struck by a vehicle or any moving object having sufficient force, the side panel 18 will be deflected inward to some degree. In order for this to occur, the contents within the hollow cavity are at least partially expelled through the vent 24. By properly selecting the size of the vent 24, the rate of compression under a given force can be chosen.

[0027] After a collision having a certain force of impact, the modular block 10 may be deformed. That is, the resiliency of the modular block 10 will normally cause it to re-expand into the shape illustrated after certain collisions. This re-expansion will generate a vacuum which draws air into the hollow interior through vent 24. However, some impacts may deform the modular block 10 beyond the point where its resiliency can cause it to re-expand. In such a case, pressurized air (or another medium) can be introduced through the vent 24 to re-expand the modular block 10.

[0028] Various materials can be contained within the hollow interior. For example, air, water, other liquids, sand, foam, or saw dust are just some of the possibilities. The particular material chosen will modify the overall mass, resiliency, and resistance of a given modular block 10. In addition, the various materials will affect the compression rate of the modular block 10 for a given vent 24 size. Of course, a given material could be added to partially fill the hollow cavity, allowing air to remain in the unfilled portion of the cavity. In such a case, it may often only be air that is expelled from the vent 24 during minor collisions.

[0029] Side panel 18 may include a plurality of ribs 26 disposed below (as illustrated) a flat face 28. The flat face 28 can serve as an area to place various kinds of advertising, warnings, instructions, directions, or other printed matter. The printed matter could be added to another material such as paper, cardboard or any other suitable material which is then temporarily or permanently affixed to the flat face 28. Alternatively, the printed matter could be applied directly to the flat face 28 through various printing, painting, or any other marking techniques. The opposite side (not illustrated) can also include ribs and/or a flat panel or it could have a different configuration altogether.

[0030] The ribs 26 and a rib 30 disposed above (as illustrated) the flat face 28 serve a variety of purposes. The ribs 26, 30 are raised from the side panel 18 and can be constructed in a variety of ways. For example, in one embodiment modular block 10 is constructed from plastic and the ribs 26, 30 are simply molded portions of the structure. Alternatively, the ribs 26, 30 could be separate structural elements that are added to the side panel 18.

[0031] The ribs 26, 30 serve to provide additional strength to the modular block 10. In addition, at least ribs 26 are positioned to be the likely point of impact for a given collision. For example, in one context the modular blocks 10 will be used as a vehicle barrier to define a go-kart track, as will be described in greater detail below. Some go-karts are provided with a bumper that defines the outer perimeter of the go-kart. For such a case, the position of the ribs 26 and the overall size of the modular block 10 could be chosen so that position of the ribs 26 coincides with the size and location of the bumpers. This allows the most likely point of impact to occur at a strengthened location. In addition, in a context such as go-karting, collisions are to be expected frequently. Thus, the ribs 26, 30 can be made or painted to have a color that matches that of the bumpers so that normal wear and tear is less visible. Alternatively, the ribs 26, 30 could be colored as a warning indicator.

[0032] The number, location, and configuration of the ribs 26, 30 can be modified. For example, the ribs 26, 30 could be made to have an enlarged, flattened contact area to increase the amount of area that is in contact with the colliding vehicle. Likewise, the number of ribs can be increased to achieve a similar result. If desired, the thickness of the side wall can just be increased and no ribs may be provided.

[0033] To form the modular block 10, various known molding techniques could be utilized. Rotational molding can be used wherein a powder resin is placed inside a mold. The mold is rotated about three axes while simultaneously being heated. The powder melts, conforms to the shape of the mold and is then allowed to cool. Blow molding could also be utilized to form the modular block 10.

[0034] The modular block 10 has a shape that allows a plurality of blocks to be securely and pivotably coupled together. More specifically, an arcuate proximal tab 32 depends from the proximal end 12. Depending from the distal end 14 are an arcuate upper distal tab 34 and an arcuate lower distal tab 36, which together define a distal gap 38 therebetween. Each of the tabs 32, 34, 36 may be hollow and coupled with the hollow interior, or may be solid members. The distal gap 38 has an arcuate receiving surface 42 for receiving a similarly arcuate abutting surface 40 of the proximal tab 32. That is, the proximal tab 32 of one modular block 10 is inserted into the distal gap 38 of an adjacent modular block 10. The shape of the arcuate abutting surface 40 and the receiving surface 42 facilitate rotational movement between the adjacent modular blocks 10.

[0035] The adjacent modular blocks 10 need to secured together once the proximal tab 32 has been inserted into the distal gap 38. A connecting pin 50 is inserted through a upper distal pin channel 46, a proximal pin channel 44 of the adjacent modular block 10, and the lower distal pin channel 48. A pin cap 42 prevents the connecting pin 50 from passing all of the way through. Once so assembled, connected modular blocks 10 are linked together; however, they can rotate or pivot with respect to one another.

[0036] A doughnut shaped cylindrical spacer 56 can be provided to fill in a distal gap 38 that will not be receiving a proximal tab 32 from another modular block 10. Generally, when this occurs an anchor system (as described in more detail below) will be provided instead of the connecting pin 50; however, the concept is the same. Furthermore, there may be some occasions where it is appropriate to secure the cylindrical spacer 56 with the connecting pin 50. Whether an anchor or the connecting pin 50 is utilized, it passes through spacer channel 58 to secure the cylindrical spacer 56 within the distal gap 38.

[0037] FIG. 2 illustrates a barrier system 70 including three modular blocks 10, 60 and 64. The blocks 60 and 64 are coupled together, the block 10 is positioned to be received by the block 60, and cylindrical spacer 58 is positioned to be received by distal gap 38. As is apparent, any number of modular blocks 10 can be coupled together to form a barrier system 70 of any length. In addition, because each modular block 10 is pivotably coupled to the adjacent block, virtually any shape or pattern can be defined by the barrier system 70.

[0038] For barrier systems 70 designed to protect larger and/or faster moving vehicles, various modifications can be made. For example, the overall dimensions can be increased. For full size automobiles (especially in a racing context), the modular blocks 10 may be five or six feet tall. The wall thickness can also increase. In addition, the interlinking of one modular block 10 to another can be modified. That is, as illustrated each block has one proximal tab 32 and one distal gap 38. This could be increased so that any number of proximal tabs and a corresponding number of distal gaps are produced in a dove-tail type relationship.

[0039] A barrier system 70 as described thus far would be useful in providing a barrier along an existing structural object, such as a wall. That is, the barrier system could simply be placed in the proper position and it would provided some degree of protection during collisions.

[0040] The barrier system 70 becomes even more useful when used with the anchor system 80 illustrated in FIG. 3. In summary, the anchor system 80 can be used to secure the endpoint(s) of the barrier system to the ground or a floor. In addition, the anchor system 80 can be used to secure any number of intermediate points along the barrier system 70.

[0041] The ground 85 (or a floor or other supporting platform) is prepared by creating a hole 87 sufficiently deep and having a sufficient diameter to receive an anchor base 82 and an anchor sleeve 84. The anchor base 82 is preferably permanently secured to the bottom of the hole 87. This can be accomplished by using cement, epoxy or another appropriate bonding material. Alternatively, the base 82 could have expandable “fingers” that can be driven outward (into the ground 85) after the base 82 is positioned as illustrated. A base shaft 86 is coupled with the anchor base 82 and extends to the top of the hole 87. An anchor plate 90 is positioned perpendicularly to and rotatably coupled with the base shaft 86. A spring 88 interconnects the anchor plate 90 with the anchor base 82. Thus, anchor plate 90 is able to rotate in the direction indicated by Arrow A by overcoming the spring force of spring 88. Once so rotated, the spring force will return the anchor plate 90 to its rest position when the opposing force, i.e., a collision, is removed.

[0042] An anchor pin 92 is securely attached to the anchor plate 90 and may include a removable anchor pin cap 94. Anchor pin 92 can be used instead of any given connecting pin 50 to interconnect any two modular blocks 10 or to become the terminus of a barrier system 70 by simply securing the unattached end of one modular block 10. In the latter case, cylindrical spacer 56 can be used to obscure the distal gap 38. Thus, anchor system 80 serves to couple one or more modular blocks 10 to a fixed location in the ground 85. Because of the ability of the anchor system 80 to allow some degree of rotational movement, the modular block(s) 10 also are able to move somewhat during a collision. Were this not the case, the anchor points of the barrier system 70 would basically be rigid and potentially hazardous.

[0043] In one embodiment, spring 88 is dampened so that after a collision the anchor plate 90 and thus the anchor pin 92 and any modular block(s) 10 attached thereto slowly return to their rest position. Without this dampening effect and if the spring tension is high, a collision may occur that causes anchor pin 92 to deflect. As it returns to its rest position, it may again collide with the vehicle with force. A dampening of the spring 88 can prevent this as can properly setting the spring tension of spring 88 based on the expected force of the collisions. The spring 88 also serves to absorb the force generated during the impact and further enhance the performance of the safety barrier 70

[0044] As indicated above, the anchor system 80 can be utilized at the starting or ending points of any barrier system 70. For circular or closed loop courses, this would be the same point. In addition, multiple anchors 80 can be positioned at any interval desired to prevent the barrier system 70 from being moved out of its predetermined shape or away from the object it is used to secure. For example, an anchor 70 could be placed at every fifth or sixth modular block 10 by using an anchor instead of the connecting pin 50 to join two modular blocks 10.

[0045] The anchor system 80 can be constructed from steel or any other suitable material. The pivoting action of the anchor 80, along with the protective benefits of the attached modular block(s) 10 prevent injury and damage even when a collision occurs directly at an anchor point.

[0046] FIG. 4 shows a barrier system 70 wrapping around an object 96 and simply illustrates the ability of the barrier system 70 to assume any give shape.

[0047] FIG. 5 illustrate how two separate courses of the barrier system 70 can be interconnected and also illustrates (in phantom) the anchor system 80. As illustrated a first course 100 is interconnected with a second course 102 by a tee connector 104. Tee connector 104 is a flat plate having two holes therethrough. The connecting pins 50 of the adjacent modular blocks 110, 112 are passed through holes in tee connector 104. Tee connector 104 is thin enough to be located in a space between proximal tab 32 and distal gap 38. Any number of courses could be connected to form any pattern or configuration. Two tee connectors 104 can be utilized for each connection point. That is, one is above the proximal tab 32 and one is below the proximal tab 32.

[0048] Thus, a modular barrier system 70 has been provided that absorbs the force and impact of collisions. This occurs because of the structure of each individual modular block 10, which allows it to compress in a controlled manner. In addition, each modular block 10 is pivotably coupled to either an adjacent modular block 10 or a pivotable anchor 80. Thus, the barrier system 70 as a whole absorbs collision impact by allowing the relevant modular blocks 10 to move (to some degree) as a whole. That is, the barrier system 70 itself can deform in a somewhat spring-like fashion.

[0049] Such a barrier system 70 can be used in a wide variety of situations. By way of example and not meant to be limiting, the barrier system 70 can be used as a safety barrier for automobiles and motorcycles on roads and highways. Because of the easily adjustable nature of the system, the barrier 70 can be used in temporary situations such as road construction or in permanent locations such as to surround a bridge support, as a guard rail, for traffic diversion and control, in parking ramps/lots, or as a highway divider. Barrier system 70 can be used anywhere collision protection or vehicle diversion is necessary or desirable. The barrier system 70 can also be used in warehouses, loading docks and other industrial settings for forklifts and other industrial equipment both to protect that equipment and to protect the surroundings from that equipment. The system 70 can be used in marine applications such as on piers, docks, or wharves. The system 70 can be used in all kinds of sporting an racing events such as auto racing, snowmobile racing, motocross or for go-karts.

[0050] For use as a barrier on roads and highways, the barrier system 70 should be sufficiently strong to not only protect the vehicle occupants and the vehicles, but should also be able to be subjected to significant impacts while remaining intact. That is, it would be undesirable to have to replace various modular blocks 10 each time a collision occurs. Obvious, extremely serious collisions would not be the norm, and when such extreme collisions occur damage to the modular blocks 10 may be expected. Conversely, in the go-kart context the force of the collisions there would be unlikely to seriously damage the components of the barrier system 70. In the context of racing cars, such as in NASCAR, the large size of the vehicle (e.g., 2000 pounds) coupled with speeds in excess of 200 MPH can result in very violent collisions. The contacted portion of the barrier system 70 would be expected to provide the appropriate degree of protection; however, in this context damaging or destroying one or more modular blocks 10 would be acceptable. The barrier system 70 facilitates easy modification and replacement allowing any damage components to be easily replaced.

[0051] FIG. 6 illustrates a portion of a go-kart track 120 defined by vehicle barrier system 70. Two courses of modular blocks 10 are used. The first is the interior boundary 140 and the second is the exterior boundary 150. The track 120 is defined by the area between the interior boundary 140 and the exterior boundary 150. As illustrated, under virtually any collision scenario go-kart 122 will collide with one or more modular blocks 10.

[0052] Support poles 126 represent any solid object that may be adjacent the track 120 and might otherwise pose a collision hazard to the go-kart 122. Support poles 126 may include some amount of padding 128, however a direct collision at speed would still be dangerous. With barrier 70, one or more modular blocks 10 will absorb the impact and reduce the risk of injury even if a collision were to occur near support pole 126.

[0053] Alternatively, the go-kart 122 could collide with the barrier 70 at some point removed from the support pole 126. In such a case, a number of things will occur. First, in light collisions the resiliency of the barrier 70 as a whole may deflect the go-kart 122 back into the track, serving the function of maximizing the on-track time of each go-kart 122 especially in concession go-karting where speeds are comparatively reduced, but driver skill and experience is often absent. In harder collisions, one or more modular blocks 10 may be caused to pivot and this action may be enough to absorb the impact and either stopping the go-kart 122, deflecting it back into the track, or allowing the driver to regain control without injury or damage. In even harder collisions, one or more modular blocks 10 may also compress with the compression resistance being determined by the material forming the modular block 10, the material contained within the hollow interior, and the escape rate as defined by the vent 24. After such a collision, the compressed modular block 10 may have sufficient resiliency to re-expand on its own or pressurized air may be blown into the hollow interior through the vent 24.

[0054] No end points are illustrated in FIG. 6. If any exist, an anchor 80 would be used to secure that end point. Alternatively, both the interior boundary 140 and the exterior boundary 150 could form complete loops. In either case, anchors 80 will be positioned at various points to control the shape of the course. By way of example, anchor locations 130 and 132 are illustrated. Even if an anchor point is where a collision occurs, the pivoting action allowed by the anchor 80 in combination with the modular blocks 10 safely absorbs the force of impact.

[0055] As illustrated, the height of a bumper 124 of go-kart 122 generally corresponds with the positioning of the ribs 26. Thus, the ribs 26 will be the location of any localized abrasions or scuffing that occurs from repeated collisions. To diminish the appearance of these abrasions or scuffing, ribs 26 can be dyed, formed, or painted to have the same color as the bumpers 124.

[0056] As it may be desirable to frequently modify the go-kart course over time, barrier system 70 can be easily moved and otherwise modified. The connecting pins 50 and anchor pins 92 can easily be removed from their corresponding modular blocks 10, allowing for any desired adjustment or modification. There may be times when anchor locations are no longer being utilized after such modifications. The anchor system 80 (FIG. 3) can be removed from the ground 85 with relative ease. Because in some embodiments, anchor base 82 is permanently fixed in place, that portion alone will remain in the ground. Appropriate covers can be placed over the exposed holes 87 when an anchor system 80 is removed.

[0057] During operation of the go-kart track facility, operators of the facility will have need to access various portions of the track. Thus, modular blocks 10 are constructed with sufficient strength and sufficiently planar upper surfaces (and preferably sufficient width) to allow people to walk across the tops of the modular blocks 10.

[0058] While the barrier system 70 has been illustrated as defining a go-kart track, it can also be used for other purposes. For example, barrier system 70, or some portion thereof, can be used to define a boundary. The barrier system 70 can also be used with any bridges on the course to both guide and protect the go-kart.

[0059] Those skilled in the art will further appreciate that the present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or central attributes thereof. In that the foregoing description of the present invention discloses only exemplary embodiments thereof, it is to be understood that other variations are contemplated as being within the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the present invention is not limited in the particular embodiments which have been described in detail therein. Rather, reference should be made to the appended claims as indicative of the scope and content of the present invention.

Claims

1. A barrier comprising:

a plurality of pivotably coupled modular blocks, each having a compressible hollow interior and a vent.

2. The barrier of claim 1, further comprising:

an anchor having a base fixed into a position and an anchor pin rotatably coupled with one of the modular blocks and pivotably coupled to the base.

3. The barrier of claim 2, wherein the anchor further comprises a spring coupled between the base and anchor pin, wherein the spring is biased to resist pivotable movement between the anchor pin and the base.

4. The barrier of claim 3, wherein the anchor further comprises:

a base shaft extending from the base in a direction parallel to the anchor pin; and

a plate coupling the anchor pin to the spring so that the anchor pin is offset from the base shaft.

5. The barrier of claim 1, wherein each modular block further comprises:

a proximal end having a proximal tab depending therefrom; and

a distal end having a gap configured to receive a proximal tab from an adjoining modular block.

6. The barrier of claim 5 wherein the proximal tab is arcuate and the gap is arcuate so that pivotable movement between two adjoining modular blocks is permitted.

7. The barrier of claim 5, wherein the gap is defined by an upper distal tab having a first channel and a lower distal tab having a second channel and the proximal tab includes a third channel configured to align with both a first channel and a second channel of an adjacent modular block to receive a pin.

8. The barrier of claim 1, wherein each of the modular blocks includes a side panel having a rib.

9. A barrier comprising:

means for absorbing an impact; and

means for coupling the means for absorbing impact.

10. The barrier of claim 9, further comprising means for anchoring the means for absorbing an impact.

11. The barrier of claim 9, further comprising means for controlling the compression of the means for absorbing an impact.

12. A modular block for use in a barrier system, comprising:

an upper surface, a lower surface, a first side panel, a second side panel, a proximal end and a distal end that define a hollow interior cavity;

an arcuate proximal tab depending from the proximal end and having a channel therethrough;

an upper distal tab depending from the distal end and having a channel therethrough;

a lower distal tab depending from the distal end and having a channel therethrough;

a distal gap formed between the upper distal tab and the lower distal tab, the distal gap being similar to the proximal tab; and

a vent allowing venting of the hollow interior cavity upon compression of the modular block.

13. The modular block of claim 12, further comprising a plurality of ribs disposed on the first side panel.

14. The modular block of claim 13, further comprising a flat panel for receiving printed matter disposed between two of the plurality of ribs.

15. The modular block of claim 12, further comprising a cylindrical spacer having a channel therethrough and shaped so that the cylindrical spacer can be selectively received within the distal gap.

16. A go-kart track barrier system comprising:

a plurality of pivotably interconnectable compressible modular blocks, each having a vent to control a rate of compression of the modular blocks, wherein a course of the modular blocks define at a least a portion of the go-kart track; and

an anchor having a first end that is fixed into position and second end pivotably coupled with the first end and rotatably coupled with a modular block.

17. The barrier system of claim 16 wherein each block includes a plurality of ribs.

18. The barrier system of claim 17, wherein the ribs are positioned to correspond with an abutting surface of a go-kart.

19. The barrier system of claim 18, wherein the abutting surface is a bumper.

20. The barrier system of claim 16, wherein a first course of modular blocks defines an interior boundary of the go-kart track and a second course of modular block defines an exterior boundary.

21. The barrier system of claim 16, wherein a first course of modular blocks is coupled with a second course of modular blocks with a tee connector.

22. A barrier system comprising:

a plurality of compressible modular blocks, wherein each block includes;

a proximal tab having a channel therethrough and an arcuate abutting surface; and

an upper and lower distal tab that define a distal gap wherein the distal gap includes an arcuate receiving surface and the distal gap is shaped to receive a proximal tab from an adjoining modular block, the upper and lower distal tabs each having a channel therethrough so that a connecting pin passing through the channel of the upper and lower distal tabs of a first block and through the channel of the proximal tab of a second block pivotably couple the first block and the second block.

23. The barrier system of claim 22, wherein each block further includes a vent to control a rate of compression.

24. The barrier of claim 22, further comprising:

an anchor having a base fixed into a position and an anchor pin rotatably coupled with the first block and pivotably coupled to the base.

25. The barrier of claim 24, wherein the anchor pin is coupled with the one of the modular blocks by passing through the channel of the upper distal tab and through the channel of the lower distal tab of the first block.

26. The barrier of claim 25, wherein the anchor pin also passes through the channel of the proximal tab of the second block.

27. The barrier of claim 25, wherein the anchor further comprises a spring coupled between the base and anchor pin, wherein the spring is biased to resist pivotable movement between the anchor pin and the base.

28. The barrier of claim 27, wherein the anchor further comprises:

a base shaft extending from the base in a direction parallel to the anchor pin; and

a plate coupling the anchor pin to the spring so that the anchor pin is offset from the base shaft.

29. The barrier of claim 22 further comprising tee connector to interconnect a first course of modular blocks to a second course of modular blocks.

30. The barrier of claim 22 wherein each modular block includes a plurality of ribs.

31. The barrier of claim 22, wherein the modular block define a go-kart track.