Abstract: A motor vehicle car body framing apparatus for use at a welding station, the apparatus including a gate having a frame structure and a plurality of tooling members carried by the frame structure for use in positioning components of the vehicle body at the welding station for welding. The tooling members are mounted on the frame structure by a plurality of mounting brackets. Each mounting bracket includes a base member mounted on the frame structure and a riser mounted on the base and mounting a respective tooling member. The riser is fixedly mounted on the base by a single central fastener bolt which may include a reduced diameter portion sized to breakaway in response to predetermined impact against the riser. The interface between the riser and the base comprises a plurality of contact points arranged in concentric relation with respect to the fastener bolt.

Abstract: A prefabricated concrete pad having embedded anchoring stud assemblies and anchoring tabs for receiving anchoring stakes therethrough. The studs are preferably notched to cause the studs to break-away during higher speed vehicle impact. During lower speed vehicle impact, the studs stay intact and the concrete pad will tilt thereby allowing the mailbox/sign to move thus reducing the potential damage.

Abstract: A device that facilitates the support of a post or shaft in such a way that the post is connected rigidly to a foundation or otherwise connected to a fixed position. If a condition arises that causes the post to become stressed physically the device will allow separation of the post from a mounting on the foundation or fixed position before the said post is physically damaged. The post itself may be round, square, rectangular, channel shape, or any other shape in profile. In some cases the post is the primary support for such things as roadside sign posts, signs, signals, lights, warnings, or markers, that are commonly held by the roadside in a fixed and elevated position so that they are easily visible to passing motorists, cyclists, or pedestrians. The device can also be used to support other types of signs, signals, or devices unrelated to traffic or transport.

Abstract: A support that includes a detachable element which has one border, of which at least a portion is attached to the support, with the border portions attached to the support all being so attached by weakened attachment seams, where the support also includes at least two lines of weakness that allow the support to be separated into at least two portions connected by a weakened attachment seam to the detachable element, with each of the lines of weakness being such that, when the support is bent along this line of weakness until it breaks, none of the weakened attachment seams breaks totally. Also disclosed is a method for the detachment of such a detachable element as well as a method for the manufacture of such a support.

Abstract: A safety device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) for a cantilevered beam (86) pivotally mounted adjacent one end thereof to a support surface is adapted to bridge the beam and the support surface (84) and is structured so that when coupled to the beam and support surface, the safety device maintains the beam in a substantially fixed cantilevered condition until a downward force exceeding a threshold is applied to the beam and thereafter controls downward pivoting of the beam.

Abstract: A breakaway device for locking connected objects in relation to one another comprises a first magnetic field structure attached to a first object and a second magnetic field structure attached to a second object. The first magnetic field structure becoming attached to the second magnetic field structure when substantially aligned. The first structure and the second structure becoming detached when subjected to a force that overcomes a spatial force between the first magnetic field structure and the second magnetic field structure. The first magnetic field structure and the second magnetic field structure having magnetic field sources with polarities and positions in accordance with a code corresponding to a desired spatial force function.

Abstract: A packaging machine includes an article conveyor for transporting articles in a flow direction and a plunger assembly for displacing articles from the article conveyor. The plunger assembly is supported and positioned by a system that includes a frame assembly and a pressure sensitive coupling as means for releasably fixing the position of the plunger assembly. The frame assembly includes a first frame structure that is attached to the plunger assembly and a second frame structure. The first frame structure and the second frame structure are slidably coupled to one another such that a resistive force that overcomes the holding power of the pressure sensitive coupling will cause the first frame structure to slide and translate the plunger assembly out of its operating position in which it can displace the articles.

Abstract: A support post assembly with mounting bracket assembly and hinge plate with defined bend lines and break points are provided to prevent or reduce damage to objects attached to the support post assembly. The hinge plate has an enhanced section having a channel formed transversely thereacross to function as a bend line when the support post assembly is subjected to a predetermined force. A section of reduced or removed material further directs the force to the weakened area to guide the bending, and openings in the bend line guide breaking or tearing of the plate. Damage is limited to the hinge plate, which is easily replaced. A mounting bracket assembly having a two-piece body for connecting or splicing support posts together includes a strap with crosspiece configured to provide a desired bend line or breakpoint.

Abstract: A frangible mount for a vehicle differential that includes a first horizontal mounting flange, a second mounting flange parallel to and vertically offset from the first mounting flange, and a generally circular differential shaft bushing holder portion with a central axis transverse to the first and second mounting flanges. The mount also includes a first transition integrally formed with, and between, the first mounting flange and the receiver portion, a notch defined between the first mounting flange and the first transition, and a second transition integrally formed with, and between, the second mounting flange and the receiver portion. When an axial force is applied to the bushing holder portion in excess of a threshold value, either the first transition or the first mounting flange fracture and either the second transition or the second mounting flange fracture, thus, allowing the bushing holder portion to be displaced apart from the first mounting flange and second mounting flange.

Abstract: When a predetermined rupture load is applied to a mounting bracket formed on an attachment part, a rupture develops in the mounting bracket, and the attachment part can be separated from a base part by this rupture. The mounting bracket, in which a slit extending in a direction intersecting a loading direction of a rupture load is formed, includes a rigid portion disposed at one side of the slit and a breakable portion disposed at the other side of the slit which is breakable because of the presence of the bolt.

Abstract: A sectional I-beam post for use along a roadside in which the post has a first elongate lower section securable via a first slip type coupling to a base anchored in the ground. Slip movement of such coupling is in a direction across the length of the post. The first coupling includes L-shaped brackets with one leg thereof attached to the post by bolts so as to be detachable therefrom and notches in the outer end of the other leg which projects outwardly from the post A second elongate upper post section has the lower end thereof connected to the upper end of the first post section by a second slip type coupling. Slip movement of the second coupling is in a direction lengthwise of the post. The second coupling includes an end plate bolted to at least one post section including at least one notch that providing a slip connection with the other post section.

Abstract: A system for absorbing energy to attenuate a force caused by an impact includes: an elongated tubular element; a fixed ring having a plurality of wedge-shaped flanges associated with the elongated tubular element; and a mobile element associated with the fixed ring. In response to movement toward the wedge-shaped flanges, the mobile element interacts with the wedge-shaped flanges, which in turn interact with the elongated tubular element so as to trigger collapse of the elongated tubular element.

Abstract: A safety device for a cantilevered beam pivotally mounted adjacent one end thereof to a support surface is adapted to bridge the beam and the support surface and is structured so that when coupled to the beam and support surface, the safety device maintains the beam in a substantially fixed cantilevered condition until a downward force exceeding a threshold is applied to the beam and thereafter controls downward pivoting of the beam.

Abstract: A pivot assembly that can be retrofitted to existing traffic poles. The pivot assembly comprises a bearing assembly disposed between a top plate and a bottom plate. The bottom plate connects to the existing pole foundation with the standard anchor bolt arrangement. Similarly, the top plate connects to the base plate of the traffic pole using additional bolts. Bearings in the pivot assembly allow the pole to rotate relative to the foundation. Preferably, roller bearings are utilized, as these can be contained substantially within the pivot assembly without extending down into the foundation or up into the pole. This means the pivot assembly can be installed in existing, standard traffic poles and foundations without modifying either. The pivot assembly does not interfere with existing wiring or access openings.

Abstract: A hydraulic unit is elastically supported by means of elastomer elements, through which bolts pass, on two legs of a mounting bracket that extend perpendicular to one another. The leg of the mounting bracket has recesses, open counter to the mounting direction of the unit, for receiving the elastomer element. With clamping means disposed on the bolt, the elastomer element is axially shortened and pressed against both the recess and side faces, located on either side of the recess, of the leg of the mounting bracket. With the shortened elastomer element, a positive and nonpositive engagement with the leg of the mounting bracket is achieved.

Abstract: A signpost, sign and a coupling mechanism for connecting the sign and signpost. The coupling mechanism incorporates a replaceable shear pin of appropriate material and strength so as to facilitate shearing of the pin in high wind conditions, thereby unlocking the coupling mechanism and allowing the sign to rotate freely about the axis of the signpost. The invention, as described, safely contains a sign attached to a signpost while reducing the possibility of wind forces damaging the sign and/or sign and signpost combination.

Abstract: A street pole (1) extending substantially along a longitudinal direction (8) and comprising a hollow cylindrical body (6) extending around the longitudinal direction (8) along a circumferential direction (9), the hollow cylindrical body (6) comprising at least one overlap (2) of a first (3) and a second edge (4) of a circumferential side wall (7) forming the hollow cylindrical body (6), the hollow cylindrical body (6) comprising fastening means (5) for interconnecting the first and the second edge (3, 4), the overlap (2) having a length (10) extending substantially parallel along the longitudinal direction (8), wherein the overlap (2) has a width (11) extending substantially along the circumferential direction (9).

Abstract: A breakaway signpost connector enables a sign support member to be fastened to an anchor member. The connector includes at least one shear member and a coupler assembly. The shear member has a first end, a second end, and a necked down section between the first and second ends. The coupler assembly surrounds the shear member and includes a first opening and a second opening. The shear member first end extends through the first opening, and the shear member second end extends through the second opening.

Abstract: A cushion unit includes a frame having a plurality of corners, and a plurality of reinforcing corner plates respectively disposed in the corners. Each reinforcing corner plate has two main portions angled to each other to form a substantially L-shape, and two wing portions projecting respectively from the main portions. Each corner has two adjacent corner wall sections respectively formed with first engaging grooves for engagement with the wing portions of the respective reinforcing corner plate. The main portions of the reinforcing corner plates are disposed respectively on inner sides of the corner wall sections of the corners when the wing portions of the reinforcing corner plates engage respectively the first engaging grooves in the corner wall sections.

Abstract: A bumper support which includes a mounting plate adapted for mounting onto a face of a display case, a bumper retainer carried by the mounting plate and a bumper adapted to engage the bumper retainer. Force transmitting members are supported by the mounting plate and adapted to engage the bumper. Each of the force transmitting members has an upper bumper engaging portion and a lower display case engaging portion. Impacts upon the bumper of sufficient force to cause outward movement of the bumper are transmitted by the upper bumper engaging portion to the lower display case engaging portion, where such impact is diffused along the face of the display case.

Abstract: A combined mounting apparatus and electrical enclosure assembly that is adapted to be supported on a support surface includes a frame member that is adapted to be supported on the support surface. A mounting bracket is provided that is connected to the frame member. The mounting bracket includes an arm having an opening. An electrical enclosure is provided that is adapted to enclose an electrical component including a wire. The electrical enclosure has an opening formed therethrough. The electrical enclosure is supported on the frame member for pivoting movement about an axis defined by the opening of the mounting bracket and the opening of the electrical enclosure. The opening of the mounting bracket and the opening of the electrical enclosure form a passageway that is adapted to allow the passage of the wire therethrough.

Abstract: The breakaway support for overhead lines is a coordinated failure control device. The breakaway support for overhead lines sacrifices itself to ensure that the supporting structure is not damaged. The device has an intentional weak link. The breakaway support for overhead lines will release when the overhead line it is supporting receives a stress that exceeds the tensile strength of the weak link in the breakaway support for overhead lines. The stress causes the weak link to fail. The structure is not damaged and a repair crew can quickly affect repairs. It is much cheaper and easier to reconnect an overhead line than it is to replace or repair a structure and then reconnect the overhead line.

Abstract: A multiple mailbox mount has a vertical post adapted to be anchored in the ground. A body having two opposed, spaced-apart, vertical ends, a continuously-semicircular curved section extending between the vertical ends, and a midpoint, is attached to the vertical post at the midpoint. A horizontal bar extends between the vertical ends of the body.

Abstract: A breakaway banner support assembly for mounting to a vertical support structure having at least one mounting member connected to a support structure, a support rod extending along a generally horizontal plane for supporting a flexible banner, and a breakaway and return hinge interconnecting the support rod and said mounting member, said rod being pivotally movable along said generally horizontal plane between a display position and a breakaway position, said rod pivoting to a breakaway position in response to a force acting thereon so as to deflect said force and pivotally returning to said display position when said force dissipates.

Abstract: A holder for rod-like objects, such as pipes, cables or the like, has a holder portion and a slide which is pressed longitudinally into the holder portion. The holder portion has a pair of arms forming a trough into which the rod-like object is placed. The slide, forming an extension of the trough, has retaining elements that are moved by a wedging action when the slide is pushed into the holding portion, so as to contact the rod-like object to maintain its position on the holder.

Abstract: A compliant interface (14,16) for vehicular seat weight sensors minimizes parasitic stresses affecting sensor output. In one embodiment, an integral compliant interface (14) has an annular flange (14a) attached to a post extending from the sensor body with a first compliant member (14r) disposed between the annular flange and an upper elongated flange (14h) of a mounting bracket (14l) and a second compliant member (14s) disposed between the annular plate and a lower elongated flange (14k) to allow pivotal movement of the sensor limited by a motion stop member (14f) of annular flange (14b) engaging the lower flange. An overload cage (14u) may be placed over the sensor and attached to an additional flange (14l) to contain the sensor in the event of a failure of the mount in a catastrophic high speed crash. According to another preferred embodiment, an interface having upper and lower body members are formed with a sensor post receiving bore (16c) for attachment to the post.

Abstract: An apparatus includes an elongated body formed from recycled tire material. At least one reinforcing member extends within the body and is disposed between opposed end portions thereof. Such a reinforcing member is preferably positioned substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis and may have a substantially V-shape, a substantially U-shape or a substantially cylindrical shape, for example. The apparatus further includes a connecting mechanism for removably connecting select ones of the opposed end portions thereof to a support surface or an object, for example.

Abstract: A collision safety device having a breakaway coupling. The collision safety device comprises first and second post segments. A first shear plate is attached to the first post segment and a second shear plate is attached to the second post segment. The first shear plate has a first contact surface and the second shear plate has a second contact surface opposite the first contact surface. The first and second shear plates are releasably attached by a breakaway coupling including a band. Friction between the shear plates and strength of the band are adjustable such that the upper post is released from the lower post when subjected to a pre-selected collision force.

Abstract: A mounting bracket including an impact release mechanism for use in connection with helmet-mount lights and other devices. In one embodiment, the mounting bracket is a two-piece assembly comprising a base plate, an upright bracket configured to detach from the base plate upon a sufficient impact or force. In one embodiment, the impact release mechanism is configured to allow the upright bracket to break away from the base plate without affecting the subsequent utility of the mounting bracket. After the upright bracket detaches from the base plate, the mounting bracket can be reassembled by pressing the base plate and upright bracket together to engage the features associated with the impact release mechanism. Other embodiments of the present invention feature a one-use mounting bracket wherein the upright bracket is integrally formed to the base plate at predefined failure points that allow the upright bracket to break away from the base plate upon sufficient impact.

Abstract: A breakaway signpost connector for attaching a sign support member to an anchor member. The connector includes a shear member having a first end, a second end, and a necked-down section between the first and second ends. A spring surrounds the shear member and supports the necked-down section.

Abstract: A pedal support for a motor vehicle includes a first partial spindle, a second partial spindle, a clamp, a bracket connected to a crash-deformable bodywork part of the motor vehicle, and a stay in engagement with another part of the pedal support and connected to a crash-stable bodywork part of the motor vehicle. The bracket includes side walls, each having an outside. The first partial spindle and the second partial spindle are each mounted in one of said the walls and spaced apart in an axial direction. A spring force acts on the partial spindles in the axial direction. The clamp includes two parallel limbs, each limb being connected to one of the partial spindles and bearing against the outside of one of the side walls, such that a relative movement of the crash-deformable bodywork part to the crash-stable bodywork part urges the partial spindles away from each other so as to release a pedal supported by the partial spindles.

Abstract: A mechanical damping system for a structure is provided. The mechanical damping system comprises a tubular impact frame secured to the structure. A support frame is secured to the structure with the support frame spaced from the impact frame. An elongated member is provided having a first end and a second end. The first end is secured within the support frame and the second end is free from connection and extends into the impact frame. At least one impact mass is secured to the second end of the elongated member, the impact mass movable within and contactable with the impact frame.

Abstract: Described is a removable assembly for use on a fixed surface. The assembly includes a post having a base (42) and an attachment assembly (8). The attachment assembly includes a base plate (10) and a magnet assembly (12), both capable of carrying a magnetic current. The magnet assembly includes a housing (20) and a magnet (22) disposed within the housing. To use, the magnet assembly is placed adjacent the base plate, the magnetic forces attracting and holding them together. The magnet is positioned apart from the base plate while the housing contacts the base plate to form the magnet circuit. An attachment plate (30) is connected to the housing upper wall adjacent its outer surface. The attachment plate includes one or more outwardly projecting attachment bolts (26). As assembled, the bolts engage corresponding openings (48) in the post base (42).

Abstract: The invention provides a portable, collapsible sign stand assembly in which a sign is suspended from a support tube. The support tube is connected to a support base through a connecting member which includes a plurality of weakening members which cause the connecting member to fail upon impact. In other embodiments, the support tube is weakened by weakening members so as to fail upon impact. In one embodiment, the weakened portions are placed under tension.

Abstract: Described is a removable assembly for use on a fixed surface. The assembly includes a post having a base (42) and an attachment assembly (8). The attachment assembly includes a base plate (10) and a magnet assembly (12), both capable of carrying a magnetic current. The magnet assembly includes a housing (20) and a magnet (22) disposed within the housing. To use, the magnet assembly is placed adjacent the base plate, the magnetic forces attracting and holding them together. The magnet is positioned apart from the base plate while the housing contacts the base plate to form the magnet circuit. An attachment plate (30) is connected to the housing upper wall adjacent its outer surface. The attachment plate includes one or more outwardly projecting attachment bolts (26). As assembled, the bolts engage corresponding openings (48) in the post base (42).

Abstract: The present invention is a tray assembly comprising a holder, at least one tray, at least one securement device, and at least one support element. The holder is designed to fit into the cup holder in an automotive car console and accommodates one beverage container. The trays are joined to and extend outwardly from the holder and accommodate at least one food item. At least one tray is downwardly recessed to better accommodate the food items. The tray assembly is designed so that a plurality of the tray assemblies can be stacked together vertically. The arrangement of the trays is asymmetrical in such a way that a plurality of trays can be placed in closer proximity to a person or object, but do not upset the overall balance of the tray. The tray assembly contains at least one aperture in at least one tray, wherein the aperture acts as a receptacle for at least one container and maintains the containers in the vertical position.

Abstract: A mode switch assembly of an automobile having an impact/load absorbing apparatus includes a housing disposed in a center facia panel in an automobile, a circuit board installed in the housing, on which a switch having a shaft is installed, a support portion for supporting the circuit board a distance from the housing, a knob on the shaft and protruding from the center facia panel, and an impact/load absorbing unit so the knob and the shaft retract with respect to the center facia panel, breaking at least one side of the circuit board or the housing, when an impact/load is applied to the shaft through the knob.

Abstract: A modular sign stand. The preferred embodiment consists primarily of a base portion attached to a breakaway column. The base portion is intended to be driven into the ground. The breakaway column supports an attached sign. The breakaway column is pierced by one or more breakaway holes at a position just above the ground. When the sign stand is struck by a moving vehicle, the one or more breakaway holes cause the breakaway column to fracture in a predictable fashion near its attachment to the base. Several embodiments are disclosed, including one forming the breakaway column and the base as one integral unit.

Abstract: A modular sign stand. The preferred embodiment consists primarily of a base portion attached to a breakaway column The base portion is intended to be driven into the ground. The breakaway column supports an attached sign The breakaway column is pierced by one or more breakaway holes at a position just above the ground. When the sign stand is struck by a moving vehicle, the one or more breakaway holes cause the breakaway column to fracture in a predictable fashion near its attachment to the base.

Abstract: A yielding column for support mine roofs or the like includes a tube provided with one or more circumferential rows of slots which provide a preferred locus for buckling. A reinforcing sleeve within the tube prevents inward buckling, so that the buckled portions are easily seen.

Abstract: A breakaway post base includes a pair of adjacent slip plates to allow separation of the upper portion of a traffic sign or the like from its permanently mounted base. The two plates are triangular with notches at their apices, with the plates and related structure secured together by bolts through the apex notches. An impact on the upper post dislodges the bolts, allowing the upper post to move freely and preventing significant damage to the sign structure. At least one of the slip base plates includes a sleeve extending therefrom, into which one end of the post is installed. The post is prevented from rotating relative to the slip base by a series of set screws installed through the slip base sleeve and locking the post immovably therein. Thus, a sign supported by the present assembly cannot rotate relative to the slip base plate.

Abstract: A breakaway member for a sign-stand having a two piece mast that supports a sign includes a first end that connects to a first mast piece which is secured to the sign, a second end that connects to a second mast piece, and a breakaway section that fractures therethrough upon impact thereby carrying the first end, the first mast piece and the sign away from the second mast piece. In a preferred embodiment, the breakaway member has a generally I-beam shaped cross-section. The first and second mast pieces have a generally rectangular and hollow cross-section. The first end of the breakaway member is disposed in the first mast piece, the second end of the breakaway member is disposed in the second mast piece, and the breakaway section is located between the first and second mast pieces.

Abstract: A yieldable portable highway sign stand is provided. The sign stand comprises a base, and a sign support coupled to and extending upwardly from the base for supporting a highway sign above the ground. The sign support includes a generally rigid, generally upright portion having a first breakaway section that is yieldable along a first direction when subjected to a sufficient load at least partially along the first direction, and a second breakaway section that is yieldable along a second direction when subjected to a sufficient load at least partially along the second direction.

Abstract: A mechanical damping system for a structure is provided. The mechanical damping system comprises a tubular impact frame secured to the structure. A support frame is secured to the structure with the support frame spaced from the impact frame. An elongated member is provided having a first end and a second end. The first end is secured within the support frame and the second end is free from connection and extends into the impact frame. At least one impact mass is secured to the second end of the elongated member, the impact mass movable within and contactable with the impact frame.

Abstract: A portable signpost assembly having a portable base structure and a frangible support post coupled to the portable base structure. The frangible support post includes a plurality of corners, wherein at least one of the corners, when viewed in cross section, includes a notch formed therein that promotes localized fracturing of the frangible support post upon contact from a motor vehicle. This enables the frangible support post to be broken away from the portable base structure upon impact from an errant vehicle to permit the sign and support post to travel over the vehicle without entering the passenger compartment.

Abstract: A breakaway coupling for a support structure having a first post and a second post, where the breakaway coupling has a first plate coupled to the first post, a second plate coupled to the second post and breakably coupled to the first plate, and a bearing positioned between the first plate and the second plate having a bearing member located in an opening of the bearing housing and contacting at least one of the first and second plates.

Abstract: A support post or coupling for a sign post assembly having an integrated breakaway system. The post or coupling has a selected predetermined shape and is adapted for carrying an associated structure. The post or coupling includes an integral weakened region providing an area of structural weakness for allowing the support post to shear upon impact by a vehicle traveling at a minimum speed and impacting the support post from a desired impact angle. The integral weakened region is formed by reducing the cross-sectional area of a portion of the support post such that it is slightly less than the cross-sectional area of the remainder of the support post. The integral weakened region may be formed by swaging the support post, by scoring a groove within the support post, or by creating a series of dimples or perforations within the support post.

Abstract: A safety device may be used to provide separation in the event of a side impact collision. The device may be used in a utility pole guy wire system, interposed between the guy wire and the ground anchor. The device operates in bending. A lateral force of sufficient magnitude applied to the device by the errant vehicle causes a rod within the device to break in tension, even though the tensile strength of the rod may be greater than that of the guy wire. In operation, certain massive portions of the device are tied safely to the ground, while other portions are pulled over the moving vehicle by the tension of the guy wire. The invention may be designed to tolerate axial loads, but to fail reliably when a side force exceeds a desired threshold. When installed in series with a utility pole guy wire, the invention will withstand all normal tensile and incidental loads, and will release when subjected to a high side force as from an automobile impact.

Abstract: A steering column mounting bracket is provided with break-away capsules integrally formed therewith from the same material as the mounting bracket allowing the capsules to have a more consistent break-away load and reduce noise within the cabin of a vehicle.

Abstract: An insulator capable of supporting the conductor of an electric fence including at least one retaining portion capable of retaining at least one fixing element to the insulator prior to the insulator being fixed to a support structure with the fixing element.