Portable Patents (Class 116/63P)
  • Patent number: 5592898
    Abstract: A lane marker includes a base, an illuminator, and a frangible bracket resably holding the illuminator in the lowered position on the base. A cantilever embedded in the bracket extends therefrom along the illuminator and is stronger than the bracket. The marker also includes a vertically expandable spring whose coils are compressed in a planar array against the base, one section of the spring biasing the illuminator to swing up from the lowered position. A keeper section of the spring connects to the illuminator and bears on the coils to keep them compressed against the base. An end of the keeper section latches to the base until the frangible bracket is broken. When the bracket breaks, the spring swings up the keeper section along with the illuminator so as to free the keeper section's end from the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 14, 1997
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: John G. Korpi
  • Patent number: 5580156
    Abstract: A marker apparatus including a retroreflector constituted by three reflective surfaces arranged on three surfaces of a trigonal pyramid and a light source disposed on an optical axis of the retroreflector. A lens is provided in front of the retroreflector and a condensing lens is formed on the lens for condensing light emitting from the light source. A plurality of retroreflectors are provided continuously on the same plane in such a manner that directions of the three reflective surfaces, which constitute each of the retroreflector, are different from one another, and a front view of the retroreflector is regular hexagonal. A wall surface is formed between the three reflective surfaces constituting each retroreflector so that the wall surface directed in parallel with an optical axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1996
    Assignee: Koito Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshio Suzuki, Nobuo Matsukawa, Kazunori Tamura
  • Patent number: 5572188
    Abstract: An erectable and collapsible warning signal reflector assembly includes a pair of crossed arms that are pivotally connected to one another at their crossing point and are further attached to a vertical post stand at the same point. An elongated hollow box is used as a stand. The bottom of the vertical post is positioned into an opening in a top lid cover of the elongated box stand. When the crossed arms and post are rotated along the same plane, the entire assembly can be fit into the elongated box for storage purposes. Electrically powered lights are located on at least one side of each of the arms. The lights can be powered by a battery and switch inside each of the arms. Alternatively, the lights can be powered by an adapter plug that can be inserted into a conventional cigarette lighter. Alternatively, the lights can be reflector covers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 5, 1996
    Inventor: Robert A. McDowell, II
  • Patent number: 5570972
    Abstract: A combination mounting flange and handle for attaching a flasher light unit to a plastic traffic barricade is disclosed herein. A handle is integrally molded to each of the barricade panels to allow for convenient dismantling and transportation of the barricade. A flange is molded onto each handle so that a flasher light unit may be affixed to a handle using a fastening bolt. The position of the mounted flasher light unit near the cross-bars of the barricade prevents the unit from being knocked out of placement by common road or construction disturbances. The shape and position of the handle allows for simplified usage and easier access to the fastening bolt by the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 5, 1996
    Assignee: Plasticade Products Corporation
    Inventors: Geoffrey M. Glass, Wayne J. Brocka, Douglas C. Madsen
  • Patent number: 5560732
    Abstract: A safety delineator is provided having either a conical or a tubular body portion, which has an improved handle feature permitting easy and comfortable full hand gripping of the delineator. The invention additionally solves a longstanding problem common to prior art support bases for delineators and the like, by providing a convenient handle, molded integrally with the support base element, for picking up the base. The inventive handle not only provides a convenient means for grabbing the delineator, but it also provides an additional advantage with respect to conical delineators, in that it prevents them from sticking together when they are stacked. Two types of inventive support bases are disclosed. One is a base molded from a heavy solid material, such as rubber, and includes additional advantageous features such as anti-skid grippers on the bottom surface of the base element and stacking rings molded onto the upper surface of the base element for assisting in compactly stacking a plurality of bases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 1, 1996
    Assignee: Traffix Devices
    Inventors: Jack H. Kulp, James P. Sullivan
  • Patent number: 5551370
    Abstract: A warning triangle assembly including an isometric triangle having an isometric recess at a central portion, the isometric recess being symmetrical to the isometric triangle, the isometric triangle being composed of three angular portions each having a large V-shaped side, a small V-shaped side, a first end side and a second end side, the first end side being provided with a protrusion, the second end side of one of the angular portions being formed with a recess adapted to receive the protrusion of the first end side of another one of the angular portions, the large V-shaped side being provided with a male fastener at one end and a female fastener at another end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 3, 1996
    Inventor: Wen-Chin Hwang
  • Patent number: 5551177
    Abstract: The sign includes a frame having a hub and plural arms extending therefrom. A web is disposed over the frame and may be secured thereto. A support for the sign is attached to at least one of the arms of the frame. The web may be either fully-attached to the frame, may be partially attached thereto, or may be removable from the frame. The web may include some type of reflective device or some type of illuminated device for further calling attention to the sign. The sign web is two-sided, and may contain lettering or other indicia on either one or both sides thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 3, 1996
    Assignee: Sportniks, Inc.
    Inventors: John H. Cowgill, Charles W. Elroy, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5544614
    Abstract: A barricade assembly is made up from a plurality of panel units which can be secured together to provide a barricade of adjustable height. Each panel unit has spaced parallel side legs and a planar cross member extending transversely between the legs. A hinge mechanism allows two panel units to be releasably hinged together at their upper ends so that they can be angled relative to one another in a free-standing, open position. Two or more panel units can also be releasably secured together in vertical alignment to adjust the height of the assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1996
    Assignee: VBCO
    Inventor: Veronica B. Cushman
  • Patent number: 5512876
    Abstract: The device according to the present invention allows the timed lighting in following phases of the structure and of the signals provided on two kinds of emergency triangles, a first one (2) provided on the vehicle, and a second one (3) that may be seen at distance, when the vehicle is forced to stop due to a damage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1996
    Inventor: Vincenzo Brusca
  • Patent number: 5497294
    Abstract: A conspicuity enhancer includes a case defining an optical cavity having an output optical window. The conspicuity enhancer also includes first and second linear light sources forming a V. Each linear light source has a light emitting device that inserts light into one end of the light source. The other end of each light source is attached to the case such that each linear light source is in optical communication with the optical cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Assignee: Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: John F. Dreyer, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5483917
    Abstract: A light reflecting traffic direction wand including a wand, the wand being positionable in a vertical orientation with an upper extent of an enlarged size and a lower extent of a reduced size, the upper extent and lower extent being formed in a curved configuration about a common vertical center of rotation, the upper extent being axially longer than the lower extent, the lateral extent of the upper extent being larger than the lateral extent of the lower extent; and a plurality of strips of reflective material secured to the interior surface of the upper and lower extent, such reflective material includes an upper strip located adjacent to the upper edge of the upper extent, an enlarged intermediate extent secured to the majority of the extent of the interior surface of the upper extent and a T-shaped member having its upper horizontal extent in the lower region of the upper extent and having its vertical component extent downwardly from the upper extent to the lower portion of the lower extent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 16, 1996
    Inventor: Dale L. Walker
  • Patent number: 5484225
    Abstract: A two-part traffic channelizing device including a recycled rubber base (or other suitable material) having a slot with a textured interior surface extending therethrough and a vertically upwardly extending vertical member coated with reflective material and releasably inserted inside the slot, forming a friction/compression fit between the vertical member and the textured interior surface of the slot. The vertical member is held in position in the slot by friction/compression alone. Upon impact, the vertical member pops out of the slot, and the device is reassembled simply by reinserting the vertical member into the slot; no replacement parts are necessary, except for accessory items such as lighting devices or power sources.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 16, 1996
    Assignee: Protection Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Randy L. Warner
  • Patent number: 5482398
    Abstract: A portable and collapsible safety reflector and barricade for use adjacent a stranded vehicle. The barricade includes multiple sets of "x" linkages, each formed of two bars hinged together in the middle for free pivoting. Each corner of each set of linkages is pivotally connected to separate corner links, with each corner link being common between two of the sets. As such, the "x" linkages for a three dimensional structure with corner links at each of the corners of this structure. Two sets of these corner links also mount support staffs, each fixed to a lower one of the associated set of corner links, and mounted for sliding movement with respect to an upper one of the associated set of corner links. The support staffs each mount an end of a band of flexible reflective material. The free ends of the staffs also include mounting cups to receive a light, flare, flag, or other safety signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 9, 1996
    Inventor: Gerald E. Finke
  • Patent number: 5475386
    Abstract: A trailer mounted apparatus for use along roadways and convertible between a folded-transport position and an erected-operational position. When in the operating position, one signal unit is elevated on the side of the roadway, and another signal unit is elevated over a traffic lane at sufficient height so as to not pose a hazard to traffic. The apparatus has a fixed upright mast with a hinged mast extension which angles upwardly and laterally away from the top of the upright mast. A foldable arm with inner and outer arm portions is hinged to the top portion of the mast extension. When in the erected position alongside a roadway, the mast extension elevates the foldable arm which extends from the top portion of the mast extension across the trailer and out and over the traffic lane. One signal unit is attached to the outer end of the foldable arm and the other unit is attached to the mast extension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 12, 1995
    Assignee: ADDCO Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Eugene H. Luoma
  • Patent number: 5469157
    Abstract: A barricade light is retrofitted to receive a light emitting diode circuit. The circuit includes both a pulse activated switch and light sensitive switch for operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 21, 1995
    Assignee: CBD, Inc.
    Inventors: Thom D. Carpenter, Lee R. Heimann
  • Patent number: 5460115
    Abstract: A temporary roadway marker having an L-shape that includes a base adapted to be attached to the roadway surface and an upwardly extending leg on which a reflective strip may be mounted is disclosed. The body of the roadway marker is formed of two materials having different flexural moduli, thus allowing the upper portion of the roadway marker to be formed of a material having a flexural modulus similar to that of the reflective strip. This helps to prevent stress concentration in the interface in between the reflective strip and the upper portion of the roadway marker, thus reducing cracks and failure of the reflective strip. In addition, it allows the base and the transition between the base and the upwardly extending leg to be formed of a more flexible material, which allows better flexing without breakage and the base to conform to the roadway surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 24, 1995
    Assignee: Davidson Plastics Corporation
    Inventors: Peter A. Speer, Harry J. Glutting, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5435662
    Abstract: Marker devices, each comprising a base with an upright post thereon, are molded from an elastomeric material. A marker device is attached by adhesive on the base thereof to each paint striping on a worn down street and each maintenance cover mounted on the worn down street. Once the marker devices are in place on the worn down street, the posts thereof must withstand the punishment of not only being flattened by truck tires, and the tracts of a paving machine that is being used to lay down the new coating of hot asphalt on the worn down street, but also the hot asphalt, and still spring back to their upright position. Thus, when the stripings are to be repainted on the resurfaced street and when the maintenance covers are to be adjusted upwardly to the level of the new coating of asphalt on the resurfaced street their exact locations on the street are immediately indicated by the posts of the marker devices without having to make any measurements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 25, 1995
    Inventors: Donald M. Brown, Michael P. Manion
  • Patent number: 5422638
    Abstract: A conventional STOP/SLOW traffic control sign mounted on a pole is supported and remotely operated by a portable stand having a tubular support mounted on a foldable frame which also carries a remotely controlled drive assembly so that the sign can be operated at a safe distance even by a person with disabilities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 6, 1995
    Assignee: Quintech, Inc.
    Inventors: Samuel Singer, Harry Krasnikoff, Richard E. Miller, Frank C. Elling
  • Patent number: 5417514
    Abstract: The application describes an automatically deployable terrain marking dev used to identify off-road safe-travel lanes for vehicles. The marking device has a base comprising a heavy ground engagement dish and a canister set on the ground engagement dish. The canister holds reagents of a foam formation system that can be triggered to form a expanding fluid foam that later hardens. A flexible inelastic base wall forms part of the base and mates to the ground engagement dish to form a sealed compartment containing the canister. A flexible tube frame assembly is communicated with the canister such that the tube frame assembly extends and expands during foam formation. The frame assembly thus has both a compact condition in which at least a part of the assembly folds upon a portion of the base and has an expanded condition in which the assembly is filled with hardened foam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 23, 1995
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: John G. Korpi
  • Patent number: 5400019
    Abstract: A portable traffic control device for temporary use capable of both automatic and manual operation which portable control device can be raised or lowered by hand and having a horizontal boom which folds down to a vertical position and with an adjustable and collapsible tripod stand and an electrical control circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 21, 1995
    Inventor: Alfonso J. Riscoe, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5382112
    Abstract: A folding road barrier includes a cross member, two folding stands pivotal connected to two opposite ends of the cross member at the bottom, a shade roller supported on and turned between two supports on the front side of the cross member for showing warning words, a signal lamp assembly mounted on the cross member at the top and controlled to give a flashing signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 17, 1995
    Inventor: Hsiang-Wen Fu
  • Patent number: 5375554
    Abstract: A rocking road emergency warning sign which is simple of construction and practical of use comprises a main body, a base, a top cover and a warning sign in which said main body is a spiral-shaped body formed by a resilient thin metal plate, said spiral-shaped body can be uncoiled into a triangular cone shape, the top portion of which has holes for attaching the warning sign. In addition, reflective papers or paints can be applied to both sides of the thin metal plate for intensifying the warning effect when the main body is swaying in the wind. The base is a substantially flat plate having a magnet on its bottom for sticking onto the metal part of the car. Also, clipping device are available at the cover to latch the top cover with the base together for carrying and storing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 27, 1994
    Inventor: Tai C. Yen
  • Patent number: 5375553
    Abstract: This invention relates to a traffic cone and in particular to one which includes a conical body having a top, a flexible bag having an upper mouth, an annular member mounted on the mouth of the flexible bag and having an outer wall and an inner wall between which there is a recessed wall portion adapted to engage the top of the conical body, whereby the flexible bag may be expanded in the conical body to receive water, sand, earth, rock, or the like, so as to enable the conical body to stand firmly on the ground when in use and the traffic cone may be piled up on another one when not in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 27, 1994
    Inventor: Chen S. Chen
  • Patent number: 5357246
    Abstract: A portable torso mounted signal device for communicating traffic directives to pedestrians, airport terminal, and vehicular traffic comprising of four strategically placed colored lenses on a board (10); board (10) is shaped in such a manner as to accommodate two lenses (12,14), circular in shape which are vertically positioned, a second pair of lenses arrow shaped (16,18), horizontally positioned on the face of the signal device. The device is self-contained in that a harness (60), power source (66), electrical circuits, and electrical switches (82) to control illumination of colored lenses are all fixed to this same board. Indicating lights (74) on the posterior surface inform the operator which lenses are illuminated during operation. The signal device is readily portable, requires no assembly, ready for immediate use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 18, 1994
    Inventor: Martin E. Wendelken, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5339765
    Abstract: A visual message indicating barricade is presented having a support means adapted to hold the barricade in a relatively upright position, at least one body affixed to said support by a securing means, at least one selectively movable member connected to the body, and at least one visually discernible message presented corresponding to each of the members, wherein the members can be selectively positioned in either a concealing or a revealing position with respect to the visual message corresponding thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 23, 1994
    Inventor: James E. Ward
  • Patent number: 5329875
    Abstract: A signalling device for roads or work sites. The device has a locked position and an unlocked position. In its locked position, when the device is prepared for use, its legs (15) project downwards while its notches (9) surround sections (8) of torsion bars (7, 8). These torsion bars are then raised up along with an indicator panel (1) which temporarily bends when the wind exceeds a certain strength. The device and the panel requires, no ballast and the panel is wind-resistant even on uniform road paving.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 19, 1994
    Inventor: Beatrice Feuvray
  • Patent number: 5327850
    Abstract: An extrudable roadway marker (11) is provided having enhanced stability. The roadway marker has a constant cross section along a centerline (A--A) that allows the roadway marker to be manufactured by extrusion. The base (13) of the roadway marker has a series of adjacent parallel grooves (27) that provide a large adhesive surface. Downwardly extending gripping edges (19) assist in attaching the roadway marker to a roadway surface. In one form, the sides of the roadway marker have reflective tape recesses (17) for receiving and protecting reflective strips 23. A raised rumble portion (15) provides a physical rumbling cue. A recess (25) reduces the weight of the roadway marker. The ends of the marker can be sheared flat or inclined. The parallel grooves may form sharp teeth where they join. The sharp teeth project away from the center of the roadway marker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 12, 1994
    Assignee: Davidson Plastics Company
    Inventors: Michael W. Sly, Peter A. Speer, Harry J. Glutting
  • Patent number: 5305705
    Abstract: A traffic marker body defined by a conical spiral arm (16) mounted for collapse into a flat core held in matching recess (22) in a base (12) by means of an automatic locking mechanism including a latch member (24) with friction reducing rollers (34, 36) to facilitate lateral travel along cam guide surfaces (38, 40, 48, 50) into alignment with a latch engaging member including a slot (46) to lock the traffic marker body (14) into a collapsed condition (FIG. 1). The adjacent segments of the spiral arms (16) are spaced sufficiently for air passageways passing through the body (14) for improved stability and to enhance visibility of elongate reflector members (54) woven in and out between adjacent segments of a spiral arm (16) with reflective surfaces on both sides for creation of visual depth and a twinkling effect for enhanced visibility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 26, 1994
    Inventor: Greg R. Gagliano
  • Patent number: 5303668
    Abstract: A self-stable, light weight, foldable and easily assembled road signaling device for disabled vehicle warning or the temporary channeling of traffic, comprising of a flexible warning panel and base. The polygonal panel and complimentary base are formed from the cut lines on an unitary flat sheet body. When the warning panel is folded upright, the base is formed from the remaining unit. Alternatively, the signaling device comprises of a flexible panel affixed to a flat light weight base. The panel is coated with fluorescent or reflective material. Shaped to reduce air drag and constructed of flexible material, in wind or turbulence, the whole warning panel will sway about the stationary base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 19, 1994
    Inventor: Andrew B. Huang
  • Patent number: 5294138
    Abstract: A traffic control cart includes a rolling wheel assembly, a base fixed on the rolling wheels, a column mounted on the base, an arm pivotally secured on one periphery wall of the column, a light device including at least a green light, a yellow light, and a red light being mounted on a top face of the column. The arm is allowed to reciprocate in a ninety-degree range from vertical position to horizontal position, in the meanwhile one color of the traffic lights is "on" thus controlling the traffic therearound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 15, 1994
    Inventor: Nan S. Yang
  • Patent number: 5287822
    Abstract: An improved portable warning marker of the type used to divert and/or guide motor vehicle traffic through or around roadway construction sites is disclosed. The warning marker may be of a foldable type including a plate member is pivotally attached to a flat base member, and a pair of wing members pivotally attached on opposite sides of the plate member so as to be independently tiltable from operative positions perpendicular to the plate and base members to a storage position against opposite broad surfaces of the plate member. Upon placing the wing members in their storage positions, the plate member is tiltable from an operative upright position to a downfolded storage position essentially parallel to the base member. A device for permitting a portable marker to be lifted through the use of a long handled tool having a hooked or forked end, which device is attached to an upper end of the marker is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 22, 1994
    Inventor: Roger K. Anderson
  • Patent number: 5265556
    Abstract: The present invention provides an advance warning traffic safety device for warning pedestrians, members of a road work crew, and other persons adjacent a road that a vehicle has strayed from the proper traffic path on the road and may endanger such persons. The advance warning safety device provides an audible alarm which serves as an advance warning to such persons downroad of the traffic safety device. The traffic safety device includes a pressurized fluid container for supplying compressed air to a plurality of horns in response to a vehicle collision with the traffic safety device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1993
    Inventor: J. Rodney Hall
  • Patent number: 5244302
    Abstract: A temporary road sign component or the like, comprising a panel integral with a stand for standing on the ground, with its base including at least two lengths of tube orthogonal to the panel and directed to rest on the ground via respective generator lines, and suitable for receiving substantially cylindrical ballasting pieces therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1993
    Inventor: Jean Ollivier
  • Patent number: 5201599
    Abstract: A two-piece, detachable traffic channelization element having an improved base element. The base element has a low profile, dome-like configuration with a ballast storage chamber. The storage chamber may be completely filled with a sand ballast and sealed in its storage condition by a cover secured to the chamber. The base element is molded of a resilient crush resistant plastic so that when it is fully ballasted, need not be ballasted again, and which low profile base can be traveled over by motor vehicles without engaging the base. The detached base, filled with ballast, can be continuously traveled on by motor vehicles, including loaded trucks, without damaging the base element and rendering it useless and the need to be replaced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 13, 1993
    Assignee: TrafFix Devices, Inc.
    Inventors: Jack H. Kulp, John D. McKenney, James P. Sullivan
  • Patent number: 5199814
    Abstract: An impact recovery delineation system comprises a base member that provides improved mechanical and chemical bonding to the road surface and a portable base that provides a rigid center portion and flexible ends to maintain the position of the delineator device after vehicle impact. A sealed, pneumatic tube of high impact resistant material composition acts as a delineator post and is adapted to receive modified load cells. Upper and lower load cell elements are provided with cable passages to allow side-by-side placement of wire rope cables. The passages are particularly geometrically configured and have two radiused edges and two straight edges which result in rapid bending and recovery of the delineator post system upon high speed impact, in any direction, by an automotive vehicle. A vented signage panel having air vents therein to reduce wind resistance, improve and speed recovery of the impacted system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 6, 1993
    Assignee: Flexco
    Inventors: Richard O. Clark, Richard M. Milton
  • Patent number: 5199375
    Abstract: A folding warning marker includes three tubular stays each having first upper ends joined together by torsional coil springs. A flexible, brightly colored and reflective fabric cover is received over the stays. The torsional coil springs bias each adjacent pair of the three stays apart, forming isosceles triangles such that the fabric cover forms a pyramidal configuration. An apex region of the flexible cover is reinforced to withstand the stress induced by the torsional coil springs. Lower ends of each of the tubular stays are received in respective pockets formed on an interior surface adjacent the lower peripheral edge of the fabric cover. The stays may be manually forced into a parallel relation to form a compact closed position of the warning marker for storage and transportation purposes. The warning marker may be retained in the closed position by a securing strap or a storage tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 6, 1993
    Inventor: Mike V. Johson
  • Patent number: 5197408
    Abstract: An integrated self-storing flag holder for flags on flagstaffs that have an elongate slot in the proximal end, comprising a main support plate having positioning means to engage the elongate slots and elongate fasteners extending through the slots to secure the flagstaffs in display position and to permit the respective flagstaffs to pivot to the storage position is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 30, 1993
    Assignee: Sign-Up Corporation
    Inventor: Theodore L. Stoudt
  • Patent number: 5195453
    Abstract: An insert device for a hollow traffic cone utilizing an element having a first portion capable of lying within the hollow traffic cone and a second portion extending to the exterior of the hollow traffic cone. An intermediate portion connects the first and second portions and possesses a reduced dimension relative to the second portion of the element to permit gripping of the element by the user. The element may be wedged or fastened to the hollow traffic cone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1993
    Inventor: David A. McGibbon, II
  • Patent number: 5196961
    Abstract: A road sign includes: a rotor disk rotatably mounted on a frame having a retroreflective sheet formed on a first surface of the rotor disk capable of reflecting any incident light projecting onto the retroreflective sheet for forming a bright surface of said disk, and a light-absorptive surface formed on a second surface of the rotor disk opposite to the first surface capable of absorbing incoming lights projecting onto the light-absorptive surface for forming a dark surface of the disk, whereby upon a blowing of wind on the rotor disk, the disk will be rotated to subsequently orient the first bright surface frontwardly and then orient the second dark surface frontwardly, thereby causing a flashing operation for serving as an effective road sign.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1993
    Inventor: Chih-Kuo Sun
  • Patent number: 5168827
    Abstract: The signaling device (20) has a signaling body (21) and a holding device (22). The signaling body (21) is designed as a cornet-like hollow body which has four wall regions (24; 27) adjoining one another in the circumferential direction, of which two diametrically opposite wall regions (24) form the wide sides of the signaling body (21) and of which the other two likewise diametrically opposite wall regions (27) form the narrow sides of the signaling body (21). The wall regions (27) on the narrow side have the form of a conical shell. The wall regions (24) on the wide side are preferably flat. Between the signaling body (21) and the holding device (22) there is a coupling device (23). The wall regions (27) on the narrow side have above the foot (28) of the signaling body (21) in each case a recess (33; 34), which has a certain height and which extends in the circumferential direction up to the transitional point with the neighboring wall region (24) on the wide side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1992
    Inventor: Wilhelm Junker
  • Patent number: 5156486
    Abstract: A traffic control marker and marker base is described taking the form of a dome-shaped resilient body member whose ends lie in a flat plane and whose sides are outwardly flared. The marker can be formed by cutting a used pneumatic tire into arcuate segments, each of which can be forcefully inverted to automatically provide such body member. In many circumstances, the bodies alone, colored with eye-catching fluorescent or reflective coatings, can be effectively used for traffic control markers. And in other circumstances they can serve as a resilient light-weight base whereon various visual indicators such as a flag, sign, reflector, or light can be removably mounted in various ways to rise therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1992
    Inventor: Carl E. Davidson
  • Patent number: 5122781
    Abstract: A hazard warning device for use in place of a conventional flare has a lamp assembly using a long shelf life battery to over-run light emitting diodes under control of a low duty cycle low frequency oscillator. The lamp assembly is built into a lens at one end of a baton-like device, the remainder of which is a stem provided with a strut assembly similar to an umbrella frame which can be deployed between a folded condition with the struts lying against the stem and a deployed condition in which it forms a tripod support for the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1992
    Assignee: Bolan Trading Inc.
    Inventor: Malcolm C. Saubolle
  • Patent number: 5117765
    Abstract: A traffic signaling device is provided which enables a roadway work site flagman to selectably control the traffic instructions displayed to motorists traveling in opposite directions through the use of multiple louver sets which may be selectably interposed to change the message presented to motorists.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 2, 1992
    Inventor: Thomas G. Wahl
  • Patent number: 5115343
    Abstract: A truncated pyramidal pylon, has retroreflectant side walls each sloping at 8.degree.-10.degree. to the vertical for helicopters and 3.degree.-6.degree. to the vertical for fixed wing aircraft. The pylon may be constructed as a permanently erected unit or as a collapsible arrangement from hingedly connected flat surfaces, with a surface corresponding to each side, foldable to provide the assembled pylon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1992
    Inventor: Reginald S. Bennett
  • Patent number: 5106226
    Abstract: A warning system construction for slowing traffic by alerting a driver of impending danger, said construction including a supporting base structure such as a mounting frame having longitudinal spaced apart main frame members and a plurality of cross members fixed to said longitudinal members in longitudinal spaced apart relationship with raised segments mounted on selected cross members to engage the tires of a vehicle to notify the driver of impending danger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1992
    Inventors: Charles E. Fanslow, Mark A. Hollander
  • Patent number: 5097790
    Abstract: A flagger gate for roadway construction sites. The flagger gate includes a base which pivotally mounts an elongated arm. The arm may be pivoted from a lowered position where the arm extends horizontally into a lane of the roadway to a raised position where the arm extends vertically. A first sign member is located on the arm near the free end thereof, and will typically be a stop sign. A second sign is located below the arm between the free end of the arm and the base, such that the sign extends towards the roadway when the arm is raised. A linkage is provided for rotating the signs during rotation of the arm. Specifically, the first sign faces traffic when the arm is lowered, but faces upwardly when the arm is raised. The second sign faces the base when the arm is lowered, but faces traffic when the arm is raised. This eliminates confusion as to which sign to obey.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 24, 1992
    Assignee: Graham-Migletz Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert L. Massey
  • Patent number: 5079046
    Abstract: A pompon has flexible streamers formed of transparent plastic, preferably PET, in which the transparent flexible plastic contains a fluorescent dye such that when the plastic is cut to form the streamers, the cut edges provide a glowing effect in the presence of light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 7, 1992
    Assignee: Maui Toys, Inc.
    Inventor: Brian D. Kessler
  • Patent number: 5046885
    Abstract: A plastic barricade is rigidized with limiting bolt and hinge so that it can be open to a fixed freestanding position of, for example, 40.degree.. Downward or collision forces with the barricade are compensated by providing compression molded end walls in the recesses in which the limiting bolt is placed. In addition, the hinge which includes a cylindrical male boss and a C-shaped female socket accommodates such forces by reason that the C-socket is also compression molded and includes additional strut means connected to its associated leg on the barricade frame unit for distributing any forces on the C-socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 10, 1991
    Inventor: Kurt W. Thurston
  • Patent number: 5038704
    Abstract: The present invention provides a portable, temporary railroad signaling device which may be tenaciously secured onto a railroad rail and its use. The device includes an adjustable and fixed clamping mechanism for clasping onto a railroad rail placed therewithin, which mechanism when tightly drawn together mechanically biases and wedges the rail therebetween. The device advantageously includes a collapsible arm to mount and support a signaling unit thereupon an internal housing for stowing a signaling unit therewithin and a lock for locking the clamped device onto the rail to protect the device against unauthorized tampering.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1991
    Inventors: Thomas R. Dean, Kenneth T. Christenson
  • Patent number: RE34691
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a light weight, fluid charged, stackable, and easily placeable traffic barrier. The barrier includes a lightweight frame, made up of a skin or other lightweight framing elements. The barrier includes an interior bladder chamber for charging with a weighting fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 9, 1994
    Inventor: John M. White