Street Traffic Patents (Class 116/63R)
  • 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: 6158919
    Abstract: A marker post having a breachable coating for providing a visual indication of the presence of an object, with the marker post comprised of glass fibers supported in a resin containing a secondary pigment to provide an internal color to the marker post, and with the breachable coating containing an ultraviolet blocking agent, with the breachable coating having a principle pigment of a color that is the same or substantially the same color as the secondary pigment in the resin so that in the event the breachable coating having the principle color pigment is breached, the underlying secondary pigment in the resin will be visible through the breached coating so that a viewer observing the marker post from a distance will see the marker post as one color even though two distinct surfaces of the marker post are exposed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Inventor: Scott D. Landes
  • Patent number: 6160495
    Abstract: A device for presenting multiple illuminated messages and a method for making same. The device includes a uniformly thick panel of transparent material having at least one elongated and continuous passageway therein forming a message to be indicated. The passageway is filled with gas and materials that emit light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Assignee: deMco Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Lon A. Demink, Bernard Diffin
  • 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: 6119621
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a modular cone. The modular cone includes a tubular member and a selectively collapsible base member coupled to the tubular member, wherein the base member may be selectively collapsed and stored within the tubular member. In addition, different embodiments of the modular cone include reflective surfaces, a self-storing barrier tape, and various caps such as a strobe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Assignee: Barbara Johnson
    Inventor: Mike Johnson
  • Patent number: 6116812
    Abstract: A snowplowable retro-reflective pavement marker having a reflector mounted between a pair of flanged side ramps and a pair of center ramps. The side ramps have longitudinal flanges extending outwardly from each of the ramps to position the base properly with respect to the road surface. The flanges are tapered to provide a smooth contour for guiding snowplow blades when approaching from the side. The center ramps extend longitudinally on either side of the reflector to guide a snowplow blade when it engages the marker at a steep angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Assignee: Pac-Tec, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter H. Hedgewick
  • Patent number: 6113307
    Abstract: A highway delineator device comprising an elongate tube having a bottom end, a top end, an inside surface, and an outside surface, and configured for use as a highway delineator. The bottom end of the tube comprises means for connecting the tube to a base support in such a manner that the tube is in a vertical configuration, and the top end of the tube having at least three different cross-sections comprising (i) a top cross-section flattened together with opposing inside surfaces sealed together to fully close the top end of the tube and having opposing outside surface in parallel relationship for receiving a top edge of reflective material without curvature, (ii) an intermediate cross-section having an elongate gap extending between the opposing inside surfaces, said outside surfaces along the gap being slightly arcuate to provide a flattened surface for receiving a lower section of reflective material with moderate curvature, and (iii) a lower cross-section having a circular configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Assignee: Carsonite International
    Inventors: Ernest Joyner, III, Patrick J. Ladolcetta
  • Patent number: 6109820
    Abstract: A flexible marker assembly and base for traffic control markers or other purposes. The flexible marker assembly includes a substantially vertical flat marker mounted in a receptacle in a base. A first and second longitudinal arcuate surface is provided on a first and second side of the marker for supporting the flexible marker when the marker is bent, as may occur when the marker is impacted by a vehicle. The flat marker is inserted within a receptacle and is secured to the base by an anchor plate, which is either inserted within the receptacle or positioned below the base to engage the marker. The longitudinal arcuate surfaces have channels formed therein to allow access to fasteners, which connect the marker to an anchor plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Assignee: Flexstake, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert K. Hughes, Sr.
  • Patent number: 6109821
    Abstract: A roadway marker comprises a solid body member having a lower generally planar surface configured to be adhered directly to a roadway surface. The marker is injection molded as a one-piece structure from a closed-cell foam thermoplastic material using a chemical blowing agent. The bottom surface of the body member may be formed with slight recesses or protrusions such that the entire bottom of the marker fills with adhesive when the marker is installed. Thus, maximum adhesive surface area is provided between the marker and the roadway surface. Further, the closed-cell foam construction creates a marker body which is strong, economical to mold and which does not shrink after molding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Inventors: Anthony A. Montalbano, Sidney A. Heenan, Loren M. Lundtveit
  • Patent number: 6107941
    Abstract: In order to minimize the risk to fire department and rescue vehicles as they enter into traffic, a traffic control system is provided. It includes a traffic signal assembly having a center light housing and a pair of outer light housings disposed on opposite sides thereof. The traffic control system includes a traffic sign assembly having warning information for vehicular and/or pedestrian traffic on one side thereof for mounting below the center housing of the traffic signal assembly. The traffic control system includes a solar panel to be mounted for maximizing solar energy collection in order to collect solar energy for delivery to and storage in a battery for illuminating bulbs in the housings. A sign light visually enhances the warning information on the sign.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Assignee: R. D. Jones, Right of Way, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard D. Jones
  • Patent number: 6104313
    Abstract: A remotely controlled, portable, automated flagman includes a shaft rotatably supported by a housing containing the drive mechanism and control electronics to selectively turn the shaft such that a "stop" or a "slow" sign is displayed at the option of a user. The user controls the display of the "stop" and "slow" signs by a remote control unit. A tripod or other type of support structure is attached to the housing so as to support the traffic control sign at the proper height above the ground. The automated flagman of the present invention can take the place of a human flagman with a handheld sign in zones where temporary traffic control is needed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Inventor: John F. Boyd, II
  • Patent number: 6099203
    Abstract: A marker post formed of a resilient materiel which is normally bendable without breaking, with the resilient material arranged in a triangular cross shape with internal webs therein to impart sufficient rigidity to the marker post to enable the marker post to be driven into most soils with the internal webs coacting to provide a restoring force to enable the marker post under many field conditions to return to a normally straight condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Inventor: Scott D. Landes
  • Patent number: 6059488
    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. For markers having a rounded top surface, there is preferably an indexing projection on the top surface and a complementary recess on the bottom surface. This enables interlocking of a plurality of markers in a vertical stack to prevent tilting of the markers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Assignee: Winter Beaver, Inc.
    Inventor: John L. Green
  • Patent number: 6019493
    Abstract: A high efficiency light which includes a conical lamp shade having a light reflecting inside wall, a circuit board mounted on inside the lamp shade and holding a set of LEDs, a hemispherical inner lens covered on the circuit board over the LEDs inside the lamp shade, the hemispherical inner lens having a center convex lens portion and a plurality of annular convex lens portions around the center convex lens portion, a flat intermediate lens covered on the front open side of the lamp shade, the flat intermediate lens having a center convex lens portion and a plurality of annular biconvex lens portions around the center convex lens portion, and a hollow rounded outer lens mounted on the front open side of the lamp shade over the flat intermediate lens and sealed by a packing ring, the hollow rounded outer lens having a center convex lens portion, a plurality of annular convex lens portions around the center convex lens portion, and a plurality of beehive-like convex lens portions around the annular convex lens
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2000
    Inventors: Jeffrey Kuo, Kwo-Sou Huang, Chan-Chuan Tai
  • Patent number: 6018926
    Abstract: An improved banner pole structure includes a first cylindrical tube, a pole head, a second cylindrical tube, and a bias frictional assembly. The pole head is threadedly coupled to the first cylindrical tube and the first cylindrical tube is telescopically received within the second cylindrical tube. The bias functional assembly is coupled to an end of the first cylindrical tube and frictionally engages an interior wall surface of the second cylindrical tube, responsive to rotation of the first cylindrical tube relative to the second cylindrical tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2000
    Inventor: Huang Chen-Chao
  • Patent number: 6019543
    Abstract: A foot for a traffic beacon, serving as routing device for road traffic, is proposed. At its lower end, the traffic beacon is coupled detachably with the foot. The traffic beacon, at least in its lower part, consists of a soft, elastic material and, at its lower edge, has a laterally protruding flange, which engages appropriately shaped recesses in the foot. These recesses are formed by clamping jaws, which can be bolted to a foot plate and, in each case, have a horizontal, inwardly protruding cross member. Nubs, protruding at the underside of the clamping jaws, press into the soft elastic material of the flange when the screws are tightened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2000
    Inventor: Wilhelm Junker
  • 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: 5975794
    Abstract: A snowplowable retro-reflective pavement marker having a reflector mounted between a pair of flanged side ramps and a pair of center ramps. The side ramps have longitudinal flanges extending outwardly from each of the ramps to position the base properly with respect to the road surface. The flanges are tapered to provide a smooth contour for guiding snowplow blades when approaching from the side. The center ramps extend longitudinally on either side of the reflector to guide a snowplow blade when it engages the marker at a steep angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Assignee: Pac-Tec, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter H. Hedgewick
  • Patent number: 5941655
    Abstract: Retroreflective article (10), e.g., in the form of a pavement marking, having raised, nonintegral protuberances (16) that exhibit good dry retroreflectivity and recover retroreflectivity quickly after exposure to water. The protuberances may comprise a thermoplastic polymer body and have at least two different portions. Partially embedded in the protuberances are different sets of optical elements (14) which are in optical association with a light scattering agent. The protuberances are disposed on top of a conformable base sheet (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1999
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Gregory F. Jacobs, Larry K. Stump
  • 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: 5904115
    Abstract: An assembly, preferably comprising a clearance pole, includes a first pole element with a first horizontal portion and a second vertical portion, and a second tubular pole element mounted to the ground, extending vertically, and receiving the first pole second portion. The first and second pole elements are mounted so that the first element is rotatable with respect to the second about a vertical axis. The slanted surface of an ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene block acts as a cam follower engaging a rod, bar, or tube which acts as a cam, the structures biasing the first pole element first portion to a home position. A dry lubricant is provided between the pole element bearing surfaces to provide relatively friction-free rotation between them.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 18, 1999
    Assignee: Lincoln Industries Division of Progress Rail Services
    Inventors: Michael Wayne Durbin, Michael J. Winn
  • 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: 5839850
    Abstract: The following constitution is employed for enhancing the visual recognition of a road traffic sign by presenting a road traffic sign composed of a solid pattern having shades as visual image. A marking pattern divided into plural sections is tightly formed on the road, and the adjacent sections are mutually different in lightness, so that, in the road traffic sign of the invention, a solid figure is recognized as the visual image of the marking pattern. Herein, the adjacent sections have a lightness difference of 1 or more in Munsell value, and the lightness of each section is selected at lightness in two to four stages set at mutually different Munsell values. Moreover, when the adjacent sections are colored in hues mutually different in lightness, a more solid visual image will be obtained due to the difference in hue among the sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1998
    Assignee: Sekisui Jushi Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Kazuhiro Noguchi, Nobuhisa Deki, Takeshi Nagata, Yohei Inagaki
  • Patent number: 5837350
    Abstract: Traffic delineators with vertically disposed retroreflective markings that exhibit high retroreflective brightness at high incidence angles and low incidence angles. The delineators are well suited for use on guard rails, Jersey barriers, bridge abutments, walls, barrels, posts, etc., especially in locations near intersecting traffic lanes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1998
    Assignee: Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: Gregory F. Jacobs
  • 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: 5822119
    Abstract: A retroreflective sheeting material comprising at least one retroreflective optical system (200, 300, 400) consisting of an entrance transmission optical element (201, 301) for receiving and focusing incident electromagnetic radiation from an irradiation source, and a reflective optical element (205, 405) for reflecting the incident electromagnetic radiation back toward the irradiation source; said reflective optical element being positioned in or near the effective focal point of the transmission optical element and the space between the optical elements optionally being constituted by a spacing material (202); wherein at least one of the optical elements (205, 301, 405) is a diffractive optical element, the reflective optical element (205, 405) for substantially all angles of incidence sends at least a part of the incident electromagnetic radiation back along the direction of the incoming chief ray (204), and the reflective optical element does not exclusively consist of a specular mirror type reflective op
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1998
    Assignee: Kell Erik Franke
    Inventors: Michael Rasmussen, Per Eld Ibsen, Jan Stensborg
  • Patent number: 5818640
    Abstract: This relates to a system for and method of illuminating a sign, so that drivers and observers may easily recognize and read the sign and billboard. The apparatus employs an external illumination source that is easy to inspect and maintain. The illumination source and the sign or billboard are separately installed from each other. Light emitted from the illumination source forms an incident angle (.theta.) in the range of 0.degree. to about 30.degree. at any point on the road sign. A road sign area of the sign is made of a retroreflective sheet having a wide observation angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1998
    Assignee: Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Yoshio Watanabe, Toshitaka Nakajima, Muneo Momozawa, Satoshi Kakishita
  • Patent number: 5734339
    Abstract: A crosswalk warning light system for warning drivers that a pedestrian has entered a crosswalk by shining a light onto the crosswalk and any pedestrians in the crosswalk. The crosswalk warning light system detects a pedestrian entering the crosswalk and activates the light so that a driver can see and avoid the pedestrian in the crosswalk. The crosswalk warning light system is timed so as to deactivate the light after a predetermined interval of time. The light source is selected from any conventional light source such as a scanning laser, a focused strobe light, or a focused incandescent light. The light source is supported above the crosswalk and aimed down toward the crosswalk so that the entire area defined by the crosswalk is illuminated. Further, by aiming the light source down on the crosswalk, the pedestrians are also illuminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1998
    Inventor: Terry B. Ogle
  • Patent number: 5731895
    Abstract: A reflective element mountable to a post comprises a body member having an internal keyway formed therein for sliding over the post. A bore is provided, preferably transversely through the body member, and is dimensioned to receive either a pin or a bolt which locks the element to the post. The body member in preferred form is cylindrical in shape. A reflective material such as in sheet form is wrapped around the outer surface of the body member. Thereby, the element is capable of reflecting light incident on its surface from 360 degrees around the element. The body of the element may be readily manufactured from a non-corroding plastic material as to provide years of service. By the construction of the element, it is also easily attached to a typical post used as a highway marker, such as a studded T-post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 24, 1998
    Assignee: CHS Acquisition Corp.
    Inventors: Ronald E. Owczarzak, William J. Cienkus, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5660768
    Abstract: A retroreflective structure has a window side and a facet side. The facet side has a plurality of steps with treads and risers intersecting at an angle. The risers include an array of retroreflective elements. Preferably, the elements are cube-corner prisms. The method includes forming the structure by polymerizing a polymerizable material in a mold having a facet side including a tiered structure having a plurality of steps with treads and risers intersecting at an angle and wherein the risers include an array of retroreflective elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 26, 1997
    Assignee: Reflexite Corporation
    Inventor: Helmut Walter
  • Patent number: 5654705
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method for prompting pedestrians to look and listen for turning vehicles includes an animated pictorial message formed in the image of a pair of scanning eyes (46,48) and generated by a pedestrian signal control (54) connected to a pedestrian signal display (32). The image (46,48) can be activated by a traffic control (52) or a motion detector (64) connected to the pedestrian signal control (54). A voice circuit (56) and speakers (58) connected to the pedestrian signal control (54) generate an audible message at the same time the image (46,48) is being displayed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 5, 1997
    Inventors: Ronald Van Houten, J. E. Louis Malenfant
  • Patent number: 5618130
    Abstract: A roadway marker or other article has a narrow slot through which a tab associated with a static mixing container is passed. Before placing the marker, the mixing container is drawn manually through the slot toward one side, thereby bursting internal seals or walls in the mixing container that separate two or more adhesive components, forcing the components to flow and mix, and finally to discharge the mixed adhesive onto the opposite surface of the marker in the correct mix proportions and quantity needed to attach the marker in place. The mixing container is flexibly collapsible and when initially containing the components has a larger cross section than the slot. A pull tab extends from the container for pulling the container though the slot or passageway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 8, 1997
    Inventor: Theodore R. Flint
  • Patent number: 5605414
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for protecting a barrier with a resilient pad, an objective of which being to reduce damage caused by incidental contact therewith. The protector includes a resilient membrane, advantageously made of foam, incarcerated by a cover. The outside surface of the cover may also be decorated with commercial advertising to take advantage of the prominent location of barriers at gas pump islands and drive-through businesses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 25, 1997
    Assignee: Johnny M. Fuller
    Inventors: Johnny M. Fuller, Halley D. Fuller
  • 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: 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
  • 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: 5568406
    Abstract: A method and system to detect and identify a target vehicle displaying a switched or invalid license plate includes a license plate reader to read the plate number carried by a target vehicle in its area. A pair of spaced laser beams measures the speed and length of the traveling vehicle. The read license plate numbers are compared with a data base of registered vehicles to obtain the length of the vehicle registered for that plate. If the registered length differs from the measured length, the plate may be illegally on the target vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 22, 1996
    Inventor: Eliot S. Gerber
  • Patent number: 5559509
    Abstract: A cross-walk warning light system for warning drivers that a pedestrian has entered a cross-walk by shining a light, preferably a laser, having a beam parallel to the cross-walk. The cross-walk warning light system detects a pedestrian entering the cross-walk and activates a light that is aimed across the intersection, thus the driver sees this beam of light, which is projected across the intersection and is warned of the presence of a pedestrian in the cross-walk. The cross-walk warning light system is timed so as to deactivate the light after a predetermined interval of time. In the preferred embodiment, a first and an adjacent laser are spaced apart a distance substantially the width of the crosswalk, provide parallel beams of light on each side of the cross-walk. Also in the preferred embodiment, a second laser, disposed at the opposite end of the crosswalk, provides a second beam of light, aimed substantially co-linearly with the first.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 24, 1996
    Inventor: Terry B. Ogle
  • Patent number: 5518337
    Abstract: A traffic delineator has a hollow cylindrical shell which may be of a preselected color over a preselected portion of the cylindrical shell with a wall thickness which is smaller at its top than at its bottom. As a result of the reduced weight at the top of the shell, the delineator has better recovery than delineators with constant wall thickness shells. In addition, the reduced wall thickness requires less material thereby permitting the shell to be made from a higher recovery, higher cost material, such as polyurethane. In one embodiment the wall thickness varies continuously from top to bottom and in another embodiment there is a series of steps with a constant wall thickness section between steps. The delineator has a smaller diameter base which provides rigidity and permits the delineator to be releasably supported by a support stand having a recess which releasably engages the base in a preselected orientation, held therein by a pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 21, 1996
    Inventor: D. Joe Modlin
  • Patent number: 5517395
    Abstract: A cover for attachment to a traffic light is provided including a transparent shell having an aerodynamically configured outer surface and a peripheral edge surrounding an interior of the cover, the peripheral edge including a seal thereabout to prevent moisture from entering the interior and accumulating on an inner surface of the cover when attached to the traffic light. Once attached, the cover provides an overall aerodynamic configuration to the combined traffic light and cover assembly while permitting visibility of the traffic signal lights through the transparent shell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 14, 1996
    Inventor: Ira B. Weissman
  • Patent number: 5515807
    Abstract: An extrudable one-way 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 (19) that provide a large adhesive surface. A downwardly extending gripping edge (14) assists in attaching the roadway marker to a roadway surface. An inclined surface (23) of the one-way roadway marker receives a reflective tape strip (31) that is protected by a lip (29) lying along the upper edge of the inclined surface. A raised rumble portion (15) provides a physical rumbling cue. The parallel grooves form sharp teeth (21) where they join. The sharp teeth project away from the inclined surface of the roadway marker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 14, 1996
    Assignee: Davidson Plastics Corporation
    Inventors: Peter A. Speer, Harry J. Glutting, Michael W. Sly
  • 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: 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: 5474017
    Abstract: A parking space holder including a plurality of telescoping sections that can be locked in an upright, extended position to block an entrance to a parking area or space. When unlocked, the space holder can be collapsed to a position generally flush with the parking surface to allow passage of a car. The user may use any number of the devices to designate a parking area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 12, 1995
    Inventors: Habib Mohebbi, Hamid Dadashzadeh
  • Patent number: 5474016
    Abstract: An overhead clearance warning includes an over the road horizontal member with several spaced apart depending chains carrying cylinders. The cylinders are preferably hollow plastic or aluminum and are provided with reflective stripes. The chains and cylinders are arranged so that the distance from the road surface to the bottoms of the cylinders is substantially the same as or slightly less than the overhead clearance of which the system is warning. When a vehicle which is taller than the overhead clearance approaches the warning system, the reflective stripes on the cylinders provide a visual warning of the low clearance condition. If the visual warning is ignored, the tall vehicle will strike the hollow cylinders and a relatively loud audible warning will result without damaging the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 12, 1995
    Inventor: William J. Haney
  • Patent number: 5462004
    Abstract: An emergency warning flag system adapted to mark areas for use solely by emergency vehicles including a vertically extending, elongated flag pole having an upper end and a lower end; a flexible flag secured with respect to the upper end of the flag pole; a horizontal aperture extending diametrically through the lower end of the flag pole; a base unit formed generally in the shape of an inverted truncated cone with a vertical slot extending through the upper extent of the cone; attachment means extending downwardly from the base member for securement to the ground; a pin extending horizontally through the hole in the lower end of the flag pole and secured at its ends into the base at a central extent of its vertical slot; and a spring adapted to secure the flag pole in a vertical orientation during normal operation and use of warning motorists not to park thereadjacent, the flag being pivotable about the pin to a generally horizontal orientation when hit by a vehicle moving in contact with the pole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 31, 1995
    Inventor: Clayton E. McGlothin
  • 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: RE36930
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method for prompting pedestrians to look and listen for turning vehicles includes an animated pictorial message formed in the image of a pair of scanning eyes (46,48) and generated by a pedestrian signal control (54) connected to a pedestrian signal display (32). The image (46,48) can be activated by a traffic control (52) or a motion detector (64) connected to the pedestrian signal control (54). A voice circuit (56) and speakers (58) connected to the pedestrian signal control (54) generate an audible message at the same time the image (46,48) is being displayed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Inventors: Ronald Van Houten, J. E. Louis Malenfant