Portable Patents (Class 116/63P)
  • Patent number: 6158379
    Abstract: A supplemental reflective and informational member securable to a mounting member positionable within the C-shaped channel of existing traffic sign posts. The supplemental reflective and informational member can provide information of a safety, directional or commercial nature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Inventor: Albert A. Burlando
  • Patent number: 6150949
    Abstract: An optical display device for the representation of signs, especially road signs, in a display frame attached to a support device. The display frame is comprised of strip-shape display segments located at a distance from each other. In order to obtain a small-sized display device perpendicular to the direction in which an observer moves, the support device is aligned in a substantially parallel position to the given direction in which the observer moves, and the display frame is designed to include several display segments, located at a distance from each other, placed behind each other in the direction of movement and corresponding to the chronological order in which the sign is to be represented. The display segments are substantially parallel to the surface normals of the support device for the display frame or inclined at an angle of less than 45.degree. to the surface normals and assigned opposite the sightline of the observer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Assignee: Damback-Werke GmbH
    Inventors: Bernd Eschbach, Erwin Baumstark
  • Patent number: 6149339
    Abstract: A foldable road marker is formed of a pair of panels each having a central stem portion integrally connected with side panel portions. The panels each having an elongated slot with the stem portion and slots being coaxial. Each stem portion is fitted within the slot of the opposite panel for interconnecting the panels. The panels are pivotable relative to each other into a position in which they are transverse to each other or, alternatively, into a folded position in which they are generally parallel and closely overlap to each other for storage. Guide members are formed in the slots of each of the panels for slideably fitting within vertically arranged guide channels formed in the stem portions of their opposite panel for guiding the assembly of, and the positions of, the panels relative to each other. Detents are provided for holding the panels in their transverse position for marker use or, alternatively, in their folded, parallel storage position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Inventors: James Sinclair Salloum, Wilburn Alden White, David Alden White, Edward Cullin Smith, John Quinn Nelson
  • Patent number: 6134820
    Abstract: A hand-held wafer-like signal which is essentially flat octagonally shaped with a handle at the lower end. It has a front side and a back side. The front side is a unitary construction made by plastic injection molding and has a reflector surface, one-half of a handle and a one-half of a cylindrical light housing which is essentially perpendicular to the reflective surface. There is a back side which is also made by injection molding and also has a reflective surface inside an octagonal frame, one-half of a battery container and one-half a cylindrical light housing. The one-half front and back sides are secured together as by screwing and when assembled it becomes a lightweight weatherproof hand-held signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Inventor: Robert L. Martinez
  • Patent number: 6115951
    Abstract: A portable and compact retroreflective sign system includes a base, a winding mechanism roller attached to the base, and a retroreflective roll-up sheeting having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is attached to the roller and the sign is wound about the roller. A sign support is attached to the base for supporting the roll-up sign in an unrolled position, wherein the sign support is extendible from the base. An attachment means is present at the second end of the retroreflective roll-up sheeting for attaching the sheeting to the sign support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Assignee: Reflexite Corporation
    Inventors: James X Jing, Tsunenori Matsunaga, Takashi Kawai
  • Patent number: 6101967
    Abstract: A plastic barricade assembly including two leg and panel units pivotally interconnected. Each leg and panel unit comprises first and second leg members and a plurality of panel members, the members being separately blow molded. The first leg members of each leg and panel unit are identical to each other and, at the same time, different than the second leg members of each leg and panel unit which are, in turn, identical to each other. Each leg and panel unit is assembled by bolting a first and second leg member together with a plurality of panel members. The leg and panel members of each unit are bolted together in interlocking relationship.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Assignee: Plasticade Products Corporation
    Inventors: Geoffrey M. Glass, Wayne J. Brocka, Douglas C. Madsen
  • Patent number: 6100800
    Abstract: A vehicle emergency warning system which is suitable for automatic deployment. The vehicle emergency warning system includes first and second movably joined elements bearing warning indicia. The first element may be biased upwardly so as to stand upright with the second element forming a base. The vehicle emergency warning system is compact, lightweight and may be easily moved so that it may be positioned at the front, alongside or in back of the stopped vehicle and is particularly suitable for roof mounting. The vehicle emergency warning system may be folded flat and can be readily built into a compartment in the vehicle so that it may be deployed without the need for the driver or passenger to exit the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Inventor: Ali Sigari
  • Patent number: 6079899
    Abstract: A raised road marker has a flat bottom surface with an outer periphery. At least one cavity opens onto the bottom surface laterally inwardly of the periphery and extends upwardly into the marker body. A venting groove extends along the bottom surface from the cavity to the periphery to provide a vent for air trapped in the cavity when the marker is urged into a pool of adhesive to secure the marker to a roadway. The venting of air provides a stronger bond between the marker and adhesive. Markers having a rounded top surface may be provided with a flat bottom portion with abutment surfaces to facilitate movement of a line of the markers in an automated system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2000
    Assignee: Winter Beaver, Inc.
    Inventor: John L. Green
  • Patent number: 6071037
    Abstract: A traffic control barrier consisting of an inverted, first barrel liner base, a circular connecting ring fitted over the bottom of the base, a second, upright, barrel liner fitted within the circular connecting ring, and an inverted, third barrel liner placed atop the second barrel liner and snapped together with a pair of rubber clips. A second embodiment eliminates the third barrel liner and a floor shelf is supported within the second barrel liner to form a product display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2000
    Inventor: Andy Holt
  • Patent number: 6053658
    Abstract: Disclosed is an improved roadway information display apparatus wherein scrap tire particles are molded to form a support base and opposed lengths of elastomeric material of corded ply construction are fastened to the support base so as to provide a flexibly hinged connection for a vertically extending information display board. For improved visibility, the display board may be highlighted by photo-cell operated LEDs, powered by a solar panel charged battery pack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2000
    Inventor: Henry C. Gibson, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6036400
    Abstract: An impact recovery delineation quick connect/disconnect adapter system having plate studs and a pin that when added to the impact recovery delineation system allows the delineation panel, support post and load cell to be quickly connected to and/or disconnected from the supporting base (fixed or portable) with speed and without the use of any tools. The adapter plate which is connected to the load cell provides for radially aligned slots in a recessed platform to allow the plate to engage and lock with studs that are connected to the supporting base when the load cell is rotated about its vertical axis. The studs are particularly geometrically configured and have shoulder that is larger than the barrel and a head that is larger than the shoulder which results in a mechanical locking between the plate slots and the studs upon rotation of the plate with respect to the stationary studs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Assignee: Flexco
    Inventor: Richard O. Clark
  • Patent number: 6035567
    Abstract: A hazard warning sign assembly having a sign plate displaying a warning message, and at least one flashing light and horn for generating visual and audible signals for attracting attention to the sign. A rechargeable battery pack forms a detachable handle for the sign plate and the signal housing. A telescoping pole portion mounted to the lower end of the elongate battery pack is provided for height adjustment of the assembly. Manually operable switch buttons control actuation of the flashing light and horn units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Inventor: Robert W. Cameron
  • Patent number: 6019542
    Abstract: A D-shaped base fits tightly over a barrel to add ballast to the barrel. The base is perimeter weighted to increase resistance to tipping of the barrel. The interior circumference is designed to fit tightly on the barrel. The outer circumference includes a flat portion to resist rolling of the barrel if tipped over. As a result, if the barrel is tipped over, the base stays tightly fitted to the barrel, but if an automobile collides with the barrel, the base releases to reduce the possibility of damage to the automobile or barrel or base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2000
    Assignee: Bent Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Bruce C. Bent, James A. Bent
  • Patent number: 6017602
    Abstract: A device for use as a meter pit or a traffic barrel, having double-walled construction in which one wall is a substantially smooth inner wall and a second outer wall is a corrugated wall, wherein the corrugated wall may be a singular wall extending from one end of the inner wall to the other end of the inner wall or a plurality of exterior walls attached sequentially at various points to the inner wall, the exterior corrugated walls may be linked to one another by a series of smooth walls. The corrugated wall has small, individual corrugations with the individual corrugations including a pair of trough walls and a crest, the small size of the individual corrugations making the device light-weight and impact resistant. The drum device is extruded and contains a polyolefin mixture, which preferably contains recycled and virgin polyethylene materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2000
    Inventors: Stephen W. Baker, Douglas A. Baker
  • Patent number: 6014941
    Abstract: A traffic delineator includes a cylinder and a base. The base has a hole therethrough to permit the cylinder to be inserted into the base and the base then holds the cylinder down. A grip is formed in the center section of the cylinder to increase ease of carrying the delineator. The cylinder may also include a handle and means for affixing traffic warning lights and flags. The base may include means for holding removable ballast. The cylinder is formed by blow molding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2000
    Assignee: Bent Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Bruce C. Bent, James A. Bent
  • Patent number: 6003256
    Abstract: A collapsible sign comprises at least one flexible sheet with a first message bearing side and a second side which has at least one horizontal support member attached to the second side of the sheet. At least one vertical support member is received free of interconnection with the horizontal support members by a pocket attached to the second side of the sheet. The sign includes a fastening device detachably interconnecting the vertical support member to the pocket. After the vertical support member is removed from the pocket, the sheet may be rolled up or rolled around the vertical support member for compact storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1999
    Inventors: Fred Leach, H. Jeanne Leach, legal representative
  • Patent number: 5993103
    Abstract: A control barrier is provided having a barrier wall with one or two support legs attached thereto. The barrier wall has a front face with a display recess formed therein and an internal cavity for selective filling with a ballast material. Each of the support legs are hingedly mounted to the back face of the barrier wall so as to selectively fold flat. Each support leg has an interior surface defining an internal chamber for selective filling with a ballast material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Assignee: Off the Wall Products LLC
    Inventor: Marc E. Christensen
  • Patent number: 5986576
    Abstract: A remote control portable traffic signaling device (10) and system (94) for controlling a flow of traffic. The remote control portable traffic signaling system (94) includes the portable signaling device (10) and a plurality of warning flashers (76). The portable signaling device (10) includes a remote control unit (42) and a signal head (11) having an LED display device (50) and a microprocessor (46). The remote control unit (42) transmits a control signal to be received by the microprocessor (46) for use in controlling a message communicated by the LED display device (50). A base unit (30) including a storage compartment for housing the power source (36) is connected to the signal head (11) for supplying power to the microprocessor (46) and LED display device (50) via a connection wire (38) extending through a pole (24) positioned therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Inventor: Sheldyn Kyle Armstrong
  • Patent number: 5959554
    Abstract: A traffic control device has a base (14) and a sign (16) rotatably carried by the base. The sign has at least two sides, one of which bears a "GO" indication and the other a "STOP" indication. A radio control means (11) causes a motor in the base to position the sign with the "GO" and "STOP" sides alternately in substantially the same angular position relative to the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Assignee: Charles Vincent Armstrong
    Inventors: Charles Vincent Armstrong, James Bonner
  • Patent number: 5933095
    Abstract: A traffic beacon, which can be used as a guiding device, particularly for street traffic, has a top member which is provided with warning or informative signs. The top member flips over when a vehicle drives over it. The lower end of the top member is connected via a tilting joint to a foot plate or directly to the street surface. Each tilting joint is provided with a spring-loaded locking device, a first stop holding the top member in the vertical position and a second stop serving as a locking device for the top member in a prone position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1999
    Inventor: Wilhelm Junker
  • Patent number: 5908262
    Abstract: A basally adhered, self-recovering traffic lane delineator has a cylindrical post made of flexible material, having the air outlet and inlet on the center of its upper surface, and a supplementary support panel placed and adhered underneath the post. The support panel supports a lower part of the post and is adhered on the ground. Owing to its small package volume, the delineator is easy to move and safeguard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 1, 1999
    Inventor: Eui Sig Ahn
  • Patent number: 5900826
    Abstract: A portable traffic control comprising two display units, each responsive to a transmitter's radio signals, each display unit comprising a "stop" and a "go" lamp, the light from all lamps viewable by a person positioned between the display units. The system is optionally equipped with an audio warning means for detecting vehicles that ignore a display unit stop light, the display units each preferably employing a simplified circuit with a servo motor mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 4, 1999
    Inventor: Gary J. Farber
  • Patent number: 5879103
    Abstract: The present invention relates to markers manufactured from skis. In accordance with the invention, the structure of a ski is modified to enable its use as an object which may be driven into soil or snow to designate the presence of underground objects, to delineate or identify a border or as a post for signage or fencing. The process of the invention relates to the modification of a ski by treating or removing the existing outer surfaces of a ski and providing new outer surfaces to the ski which may include graphics or notices specific to its new use. In order to inhibit the removal of a marker from soil or snow after placement, the marker may be provided with a barb system on its underground portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 9, 1999
    Inventor: Bob Baillie
  • Patent number: 5860386
    Abstract: An apparatus for use as a sign or display, for example as a traffic barricade, includes a base that has a hollow cavity that can be filled with ballast, such as sand or water. A receiver is formed in the base to pivotably receive interchangeable vertical signs having display areas with instructions or attention grabbing indicia. The base and vertical sign also cooperate to hold the sign vertical until overcome by a certain amount and direction of force, at which time the sign pivots down to prevent breakage of the apparatus. It can be easily replaced to its original position. The base also cooperates with other removeable items such as a barrel type device which would matably fit around the perimeter of the base. The base is disassemblable from the sign or barrel for handling and storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 19, 1999
    Assignee: Service Signing, Inc.
    Inventors: Dale L. Schwab, Allison J. Baugher, Kenneth A. Budke, II
  • Patent number: 5832867
    Abstract: This invention provides a combination of ground position indicator and aircraft signaling devices for airborne personnel. The disclosed position indicator and signaling devices include a substantially pliable mesh web for deployment upon the ground, the web having a directional indicator and a color or other devices for contrast between the web and the ground so that the web is highly visible to airborne personnel who are in an overhead position adjacent to the ground upon which the web is deployed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1998
    Inventor: Charles N. Whicker, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5832866
    Abstract: A signing system in the form of a support staff, a flexible sign and a plurality of flag poles. One end of the respective poles being pivotally secured to the staff and an elongate, resilient foldable retaining member connected to the flag poles intermediate the ends thereof. Securing and positioning devices are provided for positioning the flag poles, wherein the flag poles can be moved from a storage position adjacent the staff to a display position only by stretching the retaining member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1998
    Inventor: Theodore L. Stoudt
  • Patent number: 5831522
    Abstract: A portable visual emergency signal device for generally indicating caution and for providing a beacon to guide emergency vehicles or personnel to an emergency site. The emergency signal device is sectioned into a plurality of wedges, each wedge having a translucent faceted face and a distinct color. The emergency signal device also contains a plurality of sequentially fired lamps and at least one reflective surface cooperating with the lamps to facilitate propagation of light energy. The emergency signal device further includes a battery and an alarm cooperating with the battery to indicate a low battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Inventors: Leonard E. Weed, Ronald J. Weed, Dwight V. Call
  • Patent number: 5791605
    Abstract: A railroad signaling device for conveying information to a train engineer comprises a pylon adapted to be secured to a cross tie of the railroad track at a location to be passed over by a train as the train moves down the track. The pylon has front and rear faces that bear indicia fabricated of a retroflective material to reflect the train's headlight back in the direction of the engineer. The pylon is located along the railroad track to be easily detectable by an engineer, especially in fog or inclement weather when the engineer's attention is focused down the track ahead.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1998
    Inventor: Thomas D. Howie, II
  • Patent number: 5788405
    Abstract: A vertical highway marker is provided having a mounting base, a marker post and a mounting bracket. The mounting bracket secures the marker post to the mounting base. The highway marker includes a flexible region which bends so that the marker post will rotate relative to the mounting base when the marker post is impacted by a vehicle. The mounting base is a low-profile, square rubber pad which may be driven over by a vehicle without disturbing the driver's control of the vehicle. A resilient member is disposed proximate to the flexible region of the highway marker for bending with and stiffening the flexible region. Blocking members extend on forward and rearward sides of the resilient member and the flexible region for limiting a range of bending over which the resilient member bends with the flexible region, such that the stresses within the resilient member are not substantially greater than the yield strength of the resilient member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1998
    Assignee: Lucy Caroline Beard
    Inventor: James Richard Beard
  • Patent number: 5775833
    Abstract: A breakaway highway delineator including a base member for resting on a roadway or other generally horizontal surface and a base member which is connected to the panel member. In a preferred embodiment, the panel member is moveable between a first, generally horizontal orientation and a second, generally vertical orientation. The base member has a cavity/receiving slot configured to hold part of the panel member when the panel member is disposed generally horizontally. The base member also interacts to hold the panel member generally vertical when the panel member is properly positioned within the base member so as (i) to prevent the panel member from being tipped over by gusts of wind and drafts created by trucks and other vehicles passing by the delineator, and (ii) to release the panel member when forcefully impacted, allowing the panel member to be pulled from the base member to minimize damage to vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1998
    Assignee: Rotational Molding of Utah
    Inventor: David Little
  • Patent number: 5775253
    Abstract: A warming triangle comprising structure erectable into a triangle, a case for containing the structure when collapsed for storage, the case being separable into two parts forming supports with means for receiving respective spaced apart base portions of the erected triangle to support it in an upright position, the erected triangle extending transversely of the Case parts when so supported.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1998
    Assignee: Beijing Success Electronic Company Limited
    Inventors: Song Quan, Wei Lin
  • Patent number: 5775834
    Abstract: A warning device adapted to be laid flat upon a road way produces an audible warning sound when contacted by the wheels of a moving vehicle. The device is comprised of a mat of flexible resilient material having an elongated configuration, and a series of semi-rigid apertured raised longitudinal bumps each with a plurality of segments therein forming a segmented metal bar contained therein and extending throughout the length of each bump. The bumps are spaced a few inches at most over a distance of two to three feet which allows resonant sound from the vibration of the bars and frictional interaction of short segments making up the bars to be transmitted to an overpassing vehicle traveling at high speeds. In addition, the segmented bars reinforce and extend the life of the mat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1998
    Inventor: Brian G. Jackson
  • Patent number: 5769563
    Abstract: A highway warning system which is capable of being temporarily secured to the road surface and easily removed from the road surface and provides drivers with an audible and vibration warning when approaching roadway construction sites. The system being a mat or plurality of mats temporarily secured to the road surface, the mat or mat having a wave-like upper surface defined by a series of alternating wave heights and troughs which when contacted by the wheels of a vehicle provide an audible sound as well as a slight vibration thereby warning the approaching driver to be alert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1998
    Inventor: Gregory Flynn
  • Patent number: 5762444
    Abstract: An A-frame barricade has the capability of being adjusted to a desired length. The barricade includes a pair of A-frame leg support members and a generally elongate beam assembly which connects the leg support members. The beam assembly is comprises two beam members which are slidably joined by interlocking elements to enable adjustment of the length of the barricade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1998
    Assignee: Cortina Tool & Molding Co.
    Inventor: Jeffrey M. Giannelli
  • Patent number: 5755528
    Abstract: A rubber stabilizing base includes a sidewall of a worn out steel belted radial tubeless truck tire. The sidewall is annularly shaped, with an inner edge and an outer edge. An intermediate portion of the rubber stabilizing base contacts the inner edge of the sidewall and joins the sidewall to the intermediate portion. A circumferential wall is connected to the intermediate portion. Both the intermediate portion and the circumferential wall are annular, and the circumferential wall includes at least one locking lip adapted to be engaged with the traffic channelizer drum to thereby connect the traffic channelizer drum to the unitary stabilizing base. An inner portion of the rubber stabilizing base has one or more steps disposed thereon. The steps are grippable by the hand of a user to facilitate easy movement of the rubber stabilizing base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1998
    Assignee: TrafFix Devices
    Inventors: Jack H. Kulp, Samuel J. Bechtle
  • Patent number: 5751212
    Abstract: A signaling device provides a means for signaling an operator of a vehicle that the lights of that vehicle are distracting and annoying to an operator of another vehicle. The signaling device includes at least one display member having a message, such as "DIM LIGHTS", positioned thereon for conveying the message to the operator of the vehicle. The message may be constructed from a reflective or fluorescent material for enabling the lights of another vehicle to illuminate the message. The signaling device may be stored within the vehicle by attaching the signaling device to a sun visor of the vehicle with a clip. The signaling device may include a plurality of display members for conveying the message and at least one attachment member for attaching together the display members. The signaling device further includes a handle for enabling a person to manipulate the sign. The attachment members and the handle may be constructed of a flexible material for enabling the signaling device to be folded during storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1998
    Inventor: Craig Alan Findley
  • Patent number: 5729926
    Abstract: A sign includes a frame having plural battens therein. A web is disposed over the frame. The web has opposed, co-extensive sides which form a pocket therebetween. The frame is located inside the pocket of the web. A support for the sign is provided which is attached to at least one of the frame battens and is contiguous therewith. At least one of the frame battens is fixed to the web and at least one of the frame battens is removable from the web.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 24, 1998
    Assignee: Sportniks, Inc.
    Inventors: John H. Cowgill, Charles W. Elroy, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5729215
    Abstract: A battery operated safety strobe barricade, particularly suited for school crossings. The use of a battery pack that is rechargeable and can be separated from the barricade enables the apparatus to be particularly well suited to safety situations where high visibility and weight are considerations. The A-frame stand section is fabricated from low weight aluminum so that it can be carried by even the smallest crossing guard. The rechargeable battery pack features a dual rate charger so that the unit can be left to charge continuously. The battery pack has a low voltage disconnect feature so that catastrophic battery discharge is avoided thus prolonging the life of the battery. A high visibility strobe light mounted on a telescoping pipe enables the unit, despite its light weight construction, to provide a warning beacon that can be easily seen at great distances, even in the daylight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 17, 1998
    Inventor: Richard A. Jutras
  • Patent number: 5722788
    Abstract: A traffic delineator includes a barrel and a base. Wheels are mounted to the delineator to permit rolling of the delineator. The barrel has a domed top for added strength. When removed from the base, the barrel may be stacked by nesting another barrel into the cavity of the first barrel. The barrel includes a handle. Traffic warning lights and flags may be affixed to the barrel. Removable ballast may be held by, contained in, or used on, the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1998
    Assignee: Bent Manfacturing Company
    Inventors: Bruce C. Bent, James A. Bent
  • Patent number: 5713694
    Abstract: A resilient and flexible base for a two-piece traffic channelizer is provided that does not require external ballasting to stabilize the channelizer against wind forces and vacuum forces created by passing vehicles and minor impacts from a vehicle. The base is formed of a hardenable liquid resin such that the base is resilient and flexible after curing and has a specific gravity greater than about 1.25. The base further includes at least one flexible footpad for generating a restoring moment when the channelizer is subjected to a tipping force, such as a minor impact. The composition of the liquid resin includes at least one off-grade polyvinylchloride (PVC) resin, a plasticizer and a specific gravity increasing agent. A method is also provided for forming the base by slush molding at least a portion of the hardenable liquid resin adjacent the interior surface of a molding cavity. The base formed by the disclosed method is also self-lubricating and resistant to chemical degradation and extreme temperatures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 3, 1998
    Assignee: Radiator Specialty Company
    Inventors: Albert F. Monda, Milton Darrell Hinnant
  • Patent number: 5694110
    Abstract: A signal device for alerting and informing surrounding persons. The inventive device includes a hand-held, illuminated signal assembly which can be manually manipulated to signal information to passing motorists. A power supply belt can be worn by a user and is electrically coupled to the signal assembly to provide electrical power needed for illumination thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 2, 1997
    Inventor: Tim Clifford
  • Patent number: 5680121
    Abstract: In a direction display device which indicates direction by an arrow, a translucent direction display portion is formed on an outside housing. A rotation roller is disposed within the housing to be rotated by a motor. Inclined stripes are formed on the rotation roller, and therefore, by the drive force of the motor, the rotation roller rotates in the housing. As a result, the inclined stripes on the rotation roller move in the direction display portion of the housing as if the stripes move in the same direction as the arrow direction. By indicating a direction by the arrow of the direction display portion and the direction of a movement direction of the inclined stripes of the rotation roller, visibility of the indicated direction is increased. In the case that the display device has two arrow portions, the arrow portions to be used is reversed from one to the other and the direction of movement of the inclined stripes is reversed also.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 21, 1997
    Inventors: Hiromitsu Shiozaki, Tatsuo Fukaya
  • Patent number: 5670954
    Abstract: A traffic beacon apparatus has an upper portion comprising a panel member which is attached in an upright position by coupling member to base pedestal. The coupling member is a hollow shell structure formed of an elastic material. The panel member attaches to a top of the coupling member by bolts and barbed projections which are inserted into slots in the top of the coupling member. The coupling member has a flange along a lower perimeter thereof which couples with the base pedestal. The elastic material of the coupling member is more flexible than the panel member which is formed from a relatively stiff material. Apertures are formed in opposing sides of the coupling member to define a bending portion. Sides of the coupling member disposed between the apertures flex and bend when the traffic beacon is struck by a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 23, 1997
    Inventor: Wilhelm Junker
  • Patent number: 5627513
    Abstract: A portable visual emergency signal device for generally indicating caution and for providing a beacon to guide emergency vehicles or personnel to an emergency site. The emergency signal device is sectioned into a plurality of wedges, each wedge having a translucent faceted face and a distinct color. The emergency signal device also contains a plurality of sequentially fired lamps and at least one reflective surface cooperating with the lamps to facilitate propagation of light energy. The emergency signal device further includes a battery and an alarm cooperating with the battery to indicate a low battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 6, 1997
    Inventors: Leonard E. Weed, Ronald J. Weed, Dwight V. Call
  • Patent number: 5621992
    Abstract: A self standing floor sign (10) comprising two end panels (12 and 14), and two side panels (16), the two side panels (16) pivotably secured between the end panels (12 and 14), and the side panels (16) having a hinge oriented within an approximate center of the side panels (16) to allow the side panels (16) to collapse in a generally inwardly direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 22, 1997
    Assignee: Rubbermaid Commercial Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Jonathan N. Mandell, Glenn E. Tomblin
  • Patent number: 5613798
    Abstract: A traffic channelizing device has a base unit made from the sidewalls of used car or other vehicle tires, using tread portions as a stabilizer between two sidewalls, wound spirally and having an outer band with a protruding loop which results in the resilient integral base unit having a significantly reduced propensity to roll when the device is overturned. The device has the advantages of being highly resistant in wind and impact, yet being readily removable and stackable with substantially less manpower and transportation space than for existing devices. If the central hole for the upper sidewall portion of the base unit is larger than that for the lower sidewall portion, the device retains the traffic safety feature of the base being separable from the body portion in the event of a high impact, even where the upper portion comprises more than one sidewall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 25, 1997
    Inventor: Josef J. Braverman
  • Patent number: 5606931
    Abstract: A small, compact device which, when dropped or thrown from a moving vehicle, opens up and causes a visible flag or marker to be deployed at the upper end of a spring wire originally contained within the device. The device is formed of two mating cylindrical or spherical sections held together by a frangible or easily breakable bonding assembly which will fracture or open under the stress caused by dropping the device and subsequent contact with the ground. While riding or operating a piece of machinery, should a pothole be located or, if for any other reason, should the operator wish to mark a location, he merely drops one of these devices, the unit hits the ground, opens, and the marker deploys.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 4, 1997
    Inventor: Richard G. Rogers
  • Patent number: 5599132
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are disclosed for providing easily replaceable reflective surfaces for highway barricade barrels. A plurality of plastic bands are provided for securing around the exterior surfaces of the barricade barrels. The plastic bands have outer sides through which a plurality of holes extends. Strips of a reflective tape are secured to the outer sides of the plastic bands. The reflective tape has an adhesive backing which is used for securing the tape to the outer sides of the plastic bands. Mechanical fasteners are passed through the holes to fasten the plastic bands to the barricade barrels. The bands are fastened to the barrels with reflective surfaces of the reflective tape facing outward, away from the barricade barrels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 4, 1997
    Assignee: Flexstake, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert K. Hughes, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5598654
    Abstract: A collapsible sign (20) includes a frame (26) having a hub (30) and plural arms (42, 44, 46, 48, 50) extending therefrom. A web (28) is disposed over the frame (26) and is secured thereto. A support (52) for the sign is attached to at least one of the arms of the frame. At least some of the arms (42, 44, 46, 50) include a hinge element (42H, 44H, 46H, 50H) which is rotatably mourned about a pivot point (38P, 40P) on the hub. The arms may be divided into web-support arms (46, 48, 50) and sign-support arms (42, 44), wherein the sign-support arms may be fixed to a handle (53) or other standard for support the sign. The sign-support arms may also double as web-support arms in aiding to support the web in an expanded condition. In some instances, one of the arms (48) may be fixed to the hub in a non-rotatable condition. The web may be either fully-attached to the frame, or may be partially attached thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 4, 1997
    Assignee: Sportniks, Inc.
    Inventors: John H. Cowgill, Charles W. Elroy, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5597262
    Abstract: A traffic bollard mountable to a path surface for providing a barrier to a vehicle moving on the path surface. The bollard includes a stanchion member extending along a longitudinal axis from an upper distal end to a lower proximal end biasedly attachable to the path surface in a normally upright position. The stanchion member is flexible along substantially the entire extent of its longitudinal axis to be resiliently deflectable from its normally upright position upon the bollard being contacted with a predetermined amount of force by the moving vehicle. At least one collar is rotatably mounted about the stanchion member along the longitudinal axis thereof. The collar extends intermediate the distal and proximal ends of the stanchion member and freely rotates about the longitudinal axis thereof upon being contacted by the moving vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 28, 1997
    Assignee: Dale W. Beavers
    Inventors: Dale W. Beavers, Jerry F. Fischer, Vince Dicola, John D. Boyer