Highway Or Street Marker Patents (Class 40/612)
  • Patent number: 6584716
    Abstract: A vandal and weather resistant sign is disclosed including a support plate having a plurality of regularly spaced rectangular openings and replaceable tiles carried by and fixed to the plate. The plate is adapted to be fixed to a mounting surface such as a utility pole or the like with the reverse face of the plate against the mounting surface. The tiles are fixed to the reverse face of the plate wherein indicia on the obverse face of the tile is visible through the plate openings. The edges of the tile are concealed and protected by the plate so as to make the tile edges less susceptible to attack by vandals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Assignee: Permar Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: David LeRoy Paul
  • Publication number: 20030110673
    Abstract: A special material used to provide covering to the sharp edges of traffic and public signs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2001
    Publication date: June 19, 2003
    Inventor: Dimitrous D. Tomboris
  • Publication number: 20030101628
    Abstract: A marking assembly for the marking of particular traffic situations and objects comprises a front row of viewing openings, which are separated from one another by view obstacles (5), at least one back row of view obstacles (6), which are provided at a distance from one another, the view obstacles (5) of the front row contrasting with respect to the view obstacles (6) of the back row. Distances between the viewing openings in the front row and distances between the view obstacles (6) of the back row are so small that a plurality of viewing openings in the front row and a plurality of view obstacles (6) of the back row lie within the field of view of the traffic participant. The field of view of the traffic participant at the same time offers a view, via the plurality of viewing openings in the front row, of an interference pattern of contrasting view obstacles (6), which are covered to a greater or lesser extent by the view obstacles (5) of the front row, of at least one of the back rows.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2002
    Publication date: June 5, 2003
    Inventor: Marcel Peter Gort
  • Patent number: 6568877
    Abstract: A delineator pole (10) includes a top portion (10A), a center portion (10C) and a bottom portion (10B) and is intended to be rotatably mounted in the ground (50) adjacent a road. When a bumper contacts the delineator pole the bumper rotates the delineator pole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Inventor: Donald F. Behrens
  • Patent number: 6560906
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2003
    Assignee: Marketing Displays, Inc.
    Inventor: David U. Hillstrom
  • Patent number: 6550731
    Abstract: A device capable of firmly mounting a sign of direction to a post is disclosed. A cylindrical connector is fitted into the top end of the post, while an annular locking member is fitted over the connector. The locking member has a plurality of longitudinal locking grooves on its external surface at regularly spaced positions. The locking grooves individually have a T-shaped cross-section. A sign holder is slidably and detachably locked to the locking grooves of the locking member and is used for holding the sign on the post. The sign holder is provided with both a slide insert part and a sign holding part, thus being locked to the locking member at the insert part and holding the sign at the sign holding part. A plurality of longitudinal locking grooves may be directly formed on the external surface of the post in place of a separate locking member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Inventor: Yong Soo Kim
  • Patent number: 6543165
    Abstract: A folding traffic-warning device includes an enclosure and enclosure base define first and second ballast compartments, which may be filed with sand, liquid or other material to provide stability during use. A circuit and a battery holder are carried between the first and second ballast compartments. The circuit provides power to a plurality of LEDs carried by a stationary light bar and first and second folding light bars. The folding light bars may be moved between an operational position and a storage position. An axle passing through the enclosure has an upper end attached to the stationary light bar and a lower end attached to a stabilizer bar. In an in-use or operational position, the stabilize bar is oriented perpendicular to the enclosure. In a storage position, the stabilizer bar is oriented parallel to the enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2003
    Inventors: Paul V Youseph, Michael D. Small
  • Patent number: 6536744
    Abstract: A displaying bumper guard for fuel dispensers that includes a sign-holding frame assembly mounted on an inverted U-shaped bumper guard member with the bumper guard legs imbedded in the ground level concrete or concrete ledge. The device includes a frame for supporting a sign and a mounting assembly for securing the frame to the bumper guard member. The visual square footage of the frame, viewed normally thereto, is much larger than that of the bumper guard member thus providing a good visual barrier for the dispensers. In one exemplary embodiment, the bracket assembly is releasably secured to the center leg of the guard member and includes at least one and preferably two displaced mounting surface located a short distance from the side profile of the bumper guard member. The frame includes at least one and preferably two spaced elongated reinforcement frame rails or bars secured to the frame sides to strengthen the frame and to cooperate with the mounting surface by being releasably secured thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Assignee: Technalink, Inc.
    Inventor: Martin C. Pettesch
  • Patent number: 6524412
    Abstract: A method for forming and applying a roadside display system is disclosed. Character-shaped are formed in a thermoplastic polymer resin material with a highly reflective face. A readily available sheet cutting die press allows the characters, numerals or letters, to be cut on site with a minimum of effort. Typically, a matching set of character-shaped inserts are cut from a second sheet of thermoplastic polymer resin material with a different color, contrast and reflectance. The inserts are placed in the corresponding character-shaped apertures cut in the first sheet and then a reactant, in the form of contact cement, is used to adhere the sign to a roadside curb. An exothermic reaction occurs between the reactant and thermoplastic polymer resin material which adheres the thermoplastic polymer resin material to the curbside.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Inventor: Phillip L. Smith
  • Publication number: 20030033743
    Abstract: A sign stand is provided having a foldable support mechanism for quickly and conveniently manipulating the sign panel from a deployed state to a folded state. The fold-up sign panel assembly includes a foldable support mechanism having a hinge assembly coupling the upper and lower vertical brace members. The horizontal brace members are pivotally secured to the hinge assembly. A latch mechanism is operable for releasably retaining the foldable support mechanism in the deployed state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2001
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventors: David U. Hillstrom, Brian J. Hillstrom
  • Patent number: 6522263
    Abstract: A traffic control system includes a vertically and horizontally disposed pole. The vertically disposed pole has a lower end mounted to a ground surface while an upper end mounts the horizontally disposed pole at a right angle. The horizontally disposed pole extends out over a vehicular roadway and, at least a pair of signal assemblies are mounted to the horizontally disposed pole for controlling vehicular traffic which may pass by an emergency vehicle rescue station. The signal assemblies illuminate a light bulb signal sequence upon activation by a programmable central control panel and instruct vehicular traffic to stop. A receive and antenna receive a wireless signal sent from a remote location within the rescue station. A pair of verification lights mount on the traffic control system and directed towards the rescue station provide a means for indicating to emergency vehicle operators that the illumination sequence is operating properly and that all light bulbs in the signal assembly are illuminating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2003
    Assignee: R.D. Jones, Right of Way, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard D. Jones
  • Patent number: 6519884
    Abstract: A road sign having a plate mounted on a post. The plate has a primary traffic symbol on one side providing first traffic information. There is at least one secondary traffic symbol on the one side of the plate providing secondary traffic information unrelated to the first traffic information. The secondary traffic symbol is in a position on the plate to indicate the general location of the secondary information relative to the sign.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2003
    Inventor: Robert Duhamel
  • Patent number: 6516573
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2003
    Assignee: Tyco Flow Services AG
    Inventors: Kevin R. Farrell, Paul C. Stallman, II, Fred Kuhn, Richard Berkemeier
  • Patent number: 6508024
    Abstract: A new and improved highway sign or billboard advertising structure having a vertical support post on which a sign face support structure is mounted. Each of these sign face support structures has a scaffold mounted adjacent the bottom of the sign face extending inwardly toward the support. A housing encompasses the entire sign face support structure. The housing has openings therein through which the sign faces may be viewed. The housing being environmentally sealed to exclude birds, rodents and insects from the enclosed space between opposite sign faces surrounding the multiple scaffoldings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2003
    Inventor: Kevin L. Hale
  • Patent number: 6508195
    Abstract: A retractable safety marker is a device designed to provide motorists with advance warning of disabled vehicles and/or work zone areas. The device has been designed to withstand reasonable winds through the use of two base supports, a retractable support element and a partially reflectorized casing made from a porous cloth or nylon type material. The retractable arms allow for the device to easily expand to height consistent with traffic engineering design standards when in operation and then compact when it is in storage. The two base supports are designed not only to provide the necessary structural stability but to also open and close about the retractable support element thus providing for additional compactness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2003
    Inventor: John M. Tipaldo
  • Patent number: 6488441
    Abstract: According to the invention, blocks (10) are formed of rigid colored material shaped as mosaic components of the road sign; the sign is then composed by arranging the blocks (10) as a mosaic, and incorporatedly inserting the blocks (10) into the upper layer (40) of the wearing course, in such a manner that the upper surface of the mosaic road sign is substantially coplanar with the road surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2002
    Assignee: Impianti 2000 S.N.C. di Valcavi Anna E.C.
    Inventor: Luigi Solimeā€²
  • Patent number: 6477800
    Abstract: A device is provided for attachment to utility poles, trees, and the like, which positions one or more light reflective panels within channels in a bifurcated, double halo shaped housing. The housing swings open into two sections for changing the panels. The housing is mounted on the pole by first attaching two X-braces to the pole and then fastening the housing to the braces with screws. The housing is constructed of resilient materials, such as rubber, which provide energy absorption in the event a car impacts the device and pole. Panels can contain general messages, traffic warnings and any number of signals or designs. Locking plates are provided for locking the device about the pole are provided. When properly positioned on a pole the panel or panels circumvent all or part of the pole and are highly visible when the headlights of oncoming vehicles strike the panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Inventor: Stephanie Olivia Payne
  • Publication number: 20020162259
    Abstract: A sign system is disclosed for use with a parking lot which includes a plurality of parking spaces. The sign system comprises at least first and second monuments, a plurality of signs, and at least first and second cable segments suspended between the first and second monuments in a spaced relationship to each other. Each of the plurality signs is disposed adjacent to and bearing indicia identifying a corresponding one of the plurality of parking spaces and is affixed to both of the first and second cable segments in a steadying relationship. The first monument includes first and second weights, each of which is coupled respectively to a corresponding one of the first and second cable segments, whereby tension is applied to each of the first and second cable segments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2001
    Publication date: November 7, 2002
    Inventors: Kurt Monigle, Charles A. Hahn, Thomas Wilson
  • Patent number: 6463687
    Abstract: A safety sign is provided which includes a collapsible tripod base that removably supports a hollow tube therein. The hollow tube stores a foldable fabric sign therein which includes pockets at the upper, left and right corners thereof and defines a mast for the sign. The sign is supported on the base by a vertical support rod and includes a horizontal cross member. The horizontal cross member is twistable independently of the base and mast wherein this free-floating arrangement facilitates assembly of the sign while also permitting the sign to twist during windy conditions and allow the wind to spill around the sign in order to prevent the sign from toppling over.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Inventor: Edward J. Dorstewitz
  • Publication number: 20020121035
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2001
    Publication date: September 5, 2002
    Applicant: Dicke Tool Company
    Inventors: Grant D. Dicke, James G. Kokenas, Donald E. Hans
  • Publication number: 20020104242
    Abstract: A flagger traffic control apparatus comprises a standard with a pyramidal umbrella mounted on the standard top end as one or more display panels with traffic control indicia thereon, typically traditional stop and slow signs. Because the display umbrella is large, it also offers protection to the flagger from sun and rain. A transceiver is mounted on the standard so a flagger holding the standard can continue to manage the sign apparatus while speaking into and hearing the transceiver hands-free. A second display panel, typically similar to the traditional flagger sign with “stop” indicia on one side projecting in concert with an umbrella panel with “stop” indicia, is mounted intermediate the standard. A third display panel, similar to the second display panel, may also be mounted on the standard orthogonal to the second display panel. A light, typically stroboscopic or flashing, on the top of the umbrella also aids is attracting the attention of the oncoming traffic.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2001
    Publication date: August 8, 2002
    Inventor: Kermit Haugen
  • Publication number: 20020100408
    Abstract: A traffic control signal is provided for an intersection at which a first street and a second street meet. The streets are nearly parallel. The sign is for motorists on the first street. The sign is shaped to prevent a motorist on the second street from inadvertently reading the sign.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2001
    Publication date: August 1, 2002
    Inventor: Phillip J. Fricano
  • Publication number: 20020083630
    Abstract: The invention detailed herein provides for a new method of improving the vehicular capacity of a conventional road by utilizing at least one conditionally adjusted speed (CAS) limit who's adjustment is based upon at least one seasonal and/or situational parameter or guideline. Moreover, the implemental rapidity of CAS limits is also superior to most solutions presently under consideration because their integration into existing traffic control systems does not create any appreciable technological, implemental or legal difficulties. This method therefore, not only improves the overall vehicular capacity of conventional roads but does so without increasing either driver or governmental costs. Reductions in the use of fuel and land as well as diminishing the overall travel times, accident rates, and emissive pollution associated with vehicular transportation are other distinct benefits also provided by this method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2001
    Publication date: July 4, 2002
    Inventor: Robert Victor Marcon
  • Publication number: 20020073586
    Abstract: A vertically disposed placard has two sections, one disposed over the other, with the upper section of the placard attached to a pole, standard or other mount. A hinge connects the bottom perimeter edge of the fixed section with the top perimeter edge of the lower, pivotable section, allowing the front surface of the pivotable section to rotate and fold flat against the front surface of the upper, fixed section. A catch mechanism releaseably holds the two sections flat against each other, preventing the pivotable section from unfolding. An electrical controller is attached to the back surface of the fixed section of the placard and senses when a condition to which the sign is responsive occurs. Upon the occurrence, the controller causes release of the catch mechanism, allowing the pivotable section to unfold under the force of a bias (e.g., spring) and/or gravity, or by an electric motive means to display the front surfaces of both sections of the placard.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventor: Bruce H. Backe
  • Publication number: 20020059893
    Abstract: A foldable warning triangle for a vehicle is provided which includes an upper panel shaped as the upper half of a triangle; and a lower panel shaped as the lower half of a triangle, the upper panel being rotatably connected to one side of the lower panel via a pivot pin. The foldable warning triangle according to the present invention can be folded such that the triangle can be mounted in a relatively small trunk lid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2001
    Publication date: May 23, 2002
    Inventor: Suk-Hwan Kim
  • Patent number: 6389721
    Abstract: A foldable safety sign includes a base and a sign member. The sign member can either be fold and slide when mounted on the base or detached from the base. Accordingly, the store length of the foldable safety sign is much shorter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Inventor: Chin-Lai Yang
  • Patent number: 6389720
    Abstract: A triangle road sign having a bottom rack, a left frame bar and a right frame bar respectively pivoted to two distal ends of the bottom rack and detachably coupled to each other to form a triangle rack with the bottom rack, a device for securing the triangle rack to the inside of a car, indicator lights respectively installed in the bottom rack, the left frame bar and the right frame bar and controlled to flash by a control switch at the bottom rack, a solar collector installed in the bottom rack to collect solar energy and to convert collected solar energy into electricity for the signal lights at the bottom rack, the left frame bar and the right frame bar, a battery box installed in the bottom rack and controlled by the control switch to provide the necessary working voltage to the signal lights, an alternating current adapter controlled by the control switch to convert alternating current power supply to direct current power supply for the signal lights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Inventor: Chin-Keng Hsieh
  • Publication number: 20020053152
    Abstract: A hand-held portable sign employs pulsed light to increase visibility. A battery compartment is located remotely from the upper portion of the sign. Flaps are defined in a flexible sign expanse to allow wind to pass through.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2001
    Publication date: May 9, 2002
    Inventor: Raymond V. Collins
  • Patent number: 6381889
    Abstract: A bracing sleeve which includes a base portion and a cover portion. The base portion of the sleeve is affixed along a bracing surface of a flexible sign. The base portion includes a batten recess for receiving the terminal end of a batten. The batten recess is defined by walls disposed along longitudinal sides of the base portion in opposing relation and extending outwardly from the base portion. The walls define tracks along the base wall longitudinal sides. The cover portion includes a recess side and an exterior side, the cover portion is in sliding engagement with the base portion. The cover portion is movable between a first position wherein the batten recess is exposed, and a second interlocked position wherein the batten recess is enclosed by the cover portion. The cover portion and said base portion include releasable interlocking elements which cooperate to releasably interlock the cover portion in the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignee: Eastern Metal of Elmira, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Knapp
  • Patent number: 6374524
    Abstract: A portable traffic signaling and emergency response device including a hand cart. A battery is secured to the hand cart. A CB radio is secured to the hand cart. The CB radio is operatively coupled with the battery. A warning sign is provided having a first side with “stop” printed thereon. The warning sign has a second side with “slow” printed thereon. A pair of warning flags are provided with each having a handle extending downwardly therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Inventor: Donald Capps
  • Patent number: 6375385
    Abstract: A flexible support is constructed by mechanically laminating a plurality of relatively wide, thin, elongate flexible members together. The members are preferably formed of spring steel, and each individually is quite flexible due to the thin configuration. Preferably, each of the members is curved about its longitudinal axis to provide additional rigidity. The members are used to support traffic delineators, road signs, and/or other objects as desired, with the strength and resiliency required being adjusted by adjusting the number of individual members comprising each laminated support. The flexibility may be further adjusted by placement of one or more tension adjusters at one or more points along the length of the laminated support, with the attachments for the tension adjusters also being used to secure the laminations together. The fasteners used may be installed through holes formed through the support, or may pass laterally about the sides or edges of the support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Inventor: Gregory B. Kennedy
  • Patent number: 6376009
    Abstract: A first compound is applied to the polymeric coating of the display unit and the polymeric coating is ground with the first compound to even out a surface of the polymer coating. A second compound is then applied to the polymeric coating and ground on the polymeric coating to form a protective coating on the polymeric coating with the second compound. The protective coating is cleaned and a first polishing compound is applied to an oscillating polishing machine to polish the protective coating with the first polishing compound. A second polishing compound is then applied on the polishing machine and the protective coating is polished with the second polishing compound to form a polishing surface coating on the protective coating so that the retro reflection is at least 11 candela/m2/lux.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Inventor: Hans Bergvall
  • Patent number: 6338214
    Abstract: The present invention 10 discloses a kit for creating messages 18 for road signs 14. Included is a road sign blank 20 having a plurality of ferrous-like strips 22 mounted thereon, wherein the strips are sized to receive properly sized magnetic letters 24 which will form the words 36 of the message on the sign. A template 26 is provided having perpendicular alignment projections 28 thereon wherein the projections 28 are selectively placed in order to properly position the template 26 in relation to the sign 20 so that the magnetic letters 24 can be properly placed on the sign 20 by placing the letters 24 in cooperation with a plurality of numbers 30 and tic marks 32 selectively visibly placed on the template 26.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2002
    Inventor: Randy Held
  • Publication number: 20010054970
    Abstract: A traffic control system includes a vertically and horizontally disposed pole. The vertically disposed pole has a lower end mounted to a ground surface while an upper end mounts the horizontally disposed pole at a right angle. The horizontally disposed pole extends out over a vehicular roadway and. At least a pair of signal assemblies are mounted to the horizontally disposed pole for controlling vehicular traffic which may pass by an emergency vehicle rescue station. The signal assemblies illuminate a light bulb signal sequence upon activation by a programmable central control panel and instruct vehicular traffic to stop. A receive and antenna receive a wireless signal sent from a remote location within the rescue station. A pair of verification lights mount on the traffic control system and directed towards the rescue station provide a means for indicating to emergency vehicle operators that the illumination sequence is operating properly and that all light bulbs in the signal assembly are illuminating.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2001
    Publication date: December 27, 2001
    Applicant: R.D. JONES, RIGHT OF WAY, INC.
    Inventor: Richard D. Jones
  • Patent number: 6293035
    Abstract: A bracket for securing a sign to a post, includes a clamp formed as a flanged open substantially cylindrical body having facing arms adapted to be brought together by a bolt for holding the sign, the tightening of the bolt being both effective for attaching the sign to the bracket and the bracket to the post. The sign defines a slot having an open end for allowing the sign to be inserted between the arms of the body without having to completely unscrew the bolt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2001
    Assignee: Kalitec Signalisation Inc.
    Inventor: Jean LaPointe
  • Publication number: 20010013189
    Abstract: The present invention is a hierarchical wayfinding sign system. The sign system comprises a plurality of area-finder signs for providing directions to at least one area, such as of a city. Each area-finder sign has a color code key, at least one color coded area title and a route description portion. The sign system also comprises a plurality of site-finder signs within each area for providing directions to at least one site. Each site-finder sign has a color code key. A site listing portion having a background color corresponding to the area which the site-finder sign is in and a directions portion. Preferably, the area-finder signs and site-finder signs are placed and sequenced according to a grid system. The grid system defines a plurality of portal locations, gateway locations and decision point intersections. The portal locations provide a way onto a means of access to another area. The area-finder signs provide directions to the portals. The gateway locations define an entrance into an area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2000
    Publication date: August 16, 2001
    Inventor: Robert Firth
  • Patent number: 6253477
    Abstract: A retro-reflective sign is formed of a lens plate bearing indicia and having a front face and a rear face. The rear face is formed with a plurality of adjacent cube corner configurations having central axes, which configurations may reflect light rays approximately parallel to incoming light rays. The front face can be formed with adjacent rows of prisms that are saw-tooth shaped in cross-section. The prisms overlap the configurations and are shaped to bend incoming light rays towards the axes of their respective overlapped configurations and to re-bend the reflected light rays parallel to the incoming light rays. The lens plate is bowed so that its front face is convex and its rear face is concave. A rearwardly bowed support plate covers the rear face of the lens plate and the two plates are secured together along their peripheral edges for rigidifying the sign. The rear plate may be sufficiently light transparent to pass some light therethrough to backlight the indicia on the front plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2001
    Assignee: Hallmark Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Gregory J. Balint
  • Patent number: 6247258
    Abstract: A modular, mobile sign assembly which has the appearance of a permanent installation including a base module formed of a frame with a set of height-adjustable support posts and a pair of wheels on an axle for movement of the unit between locations, and a display module mounted on the base module providing a lighted sign with display panels having a battery of fluorescent lighting tubes within the sign and a message formed of letters or tiles through which the light projects, and an electrical source, either self-contained by the use of batteries or solar panels or by connection to a remote electrical source. The base module is provided with an appearance of permanence by the use of fascia support panels which are mounted to depend from the upper edge of the base frame to adjacent the ground and removable horizontal panel sections which cover the upper surface of the base module and form seating thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2001
    Inventor: John O'Malley
  • Patent number: 6237895
    Abstract: A crowd control rail assembly includes at least two foldable plastic barricades constructed from two substantially similar integrally molded planar frame units. A planar cross-panel at the upper end of the barricade includes a vertically elongated slot into which the end of an elongated plastic rail unit may be inserted. Notches are provided at each end of the rail. Dimensions of the rail are chosen so that it must be inserted into the slot substantially perpendicular to the planar face of the upper portion of the frame unit and, then when the notch engages the bottom of the slot and the barricade is unfolded, the rail is automatically and securely retained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Inventor: Kurt W. Thurston
  • Patent number: 6237883
    Abstract: A sign attachment bracket assembly for holding and securing a sign panel on an upright member of a sign stand. The assembly includes a spring member having a tab extending through an aperture on the surface of the upright member. The tab is releasably positionable between a locked position and an unlocked position. A first bracket member is slidably mounted on the upright member and supported by the tab. The first bracket member includes a slot adapted to receive a horizontally oriented cross-brace of the sign assembly. A second bracket member is movable relative to the first bracket member and encloses the slot of the first bracket member, thereby securing the cross-brace in the slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Assignee: Marketing Displays International
    Inventors: Yevgeniy M. Levin, David U. Hillstrom
  • Patent number: 6237268
    Abstract: A sign stand having an improved resilient member to dissipate the torque-moment created by wind forces acting against a sign stand. The resilient member includes a coil spring, at least one plug having a helical protrusion and at least one mounting bracket. The plug is threaded into an end of the coil spring and the mounting bracket is fastened to the plug. A locking tab on the mounting bracket engages a flat ridge machined into at least one coil of the coil spring. This configuration eliminates relative rotation between the coil spring and the mounting bracket and as such, permits the effective transmission of torque into the coil spring while eliminating the potential for failure at the spring/bracket joint due to fatigue, fracture or mechanical loosening. The design of the resilient member also permits the servicing of each component as well as substantial weight reductions in the base of the sign stand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Assignee: Marketing Displays International
    Inventor: Yevgeniy M. Levin
  • Patent number: 6233898
    Abstract: A reflective mounting member mountable to a traffic sign post to augment the warning capability of the sign post or to provide a text message, the sign post being defined by a rear wall, divergent side walls extending from said rear wall and terminating in opposing planar flanges thereby defining a U-shaped longitudinal channel, the mounting member having a U-shaped channel formed therein such that it mates about the exterior of the U-shaped channel of the traffic sign post and is mounted thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2001
    Inventor: Albert A. Burlando
  • Patent number: 6209598
    Abstract: The sign covering of the present invention is an all weather covering for concealing the insignia side of a sign, and more particularly a roadway sign. The covering is made of a weather resistant fabric, such as polypropylene, and is light enough for a single person to install. The sign covering does not damage the sign nor is it susceptible to the elements. Typically, straps affixed to a sheet covering the insignia side of the sign hold the cover in place. The straps are tied at the back of the sign using a cord fitted through the eyelets of grommets positioned at the free end of each strap and into the corresponding grommets that are positioned at the opposite edge of the sheet. Once securely attached, the sign cover effectively hides the insignia side of the sign from view.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2001
    Inventor: Todd H Petrey
  • Patent number: 6195925
    Abstract: A safety warning flag assembly for use with highway trucks provides for a foldable placard which is attachable to the front end of a highway truck. The placard, attached longitudinally along the front bumper is foldable along its longitudinal length. When closed, the placard essentially becomes part of the bumper. When opened, the placard displays a warning sign to oncoming traffic. With the placard in its open position, a flag receiving fixture attached to the placard allows a conically shaped flag and flag holder to be received within the fixture. In an alternative embodiment, the flag fixture is functionally adapted to receive the flag from various angles such that the flag can be flown at its most effective angle for warning traffic of the approaching wide load. In another alternative embodiment, the flag fixture may be attachable to other parts of the truck and may be used in conjunction with the warning placard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2001
    Inventor: Clements M. Werner
  • Patent number: 6190757
    Abstract: Coatable thermal mass transfer precursor compositions, suitable for producing thermal mass transfer donor elements, are described, the coatable compositions comprising a polyalkylene binder precursor; an acrylic binder precursor; an effective amount of a pigment to provide the desired color to a thermal mass transfer composition using the coatable composition; and d) a diluent (preferably water) in which the polyalkylene binder precursor, acrylic binder precursor, and pigment are all dispersed therein. Signage articles produced using the donor elements are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Lisa Flatt Nelson, Hsin-Hsin Chou, Christopher E. Kunze
  • Patent number: 6186463
    Abstract: A releasable coupling assembly for support ribs associated with sign panels, and the like elongated support members. Force generated by a knob and threaded shaft is applied to a pressure plate through a lever arm. The lever arm is arranged so as to provide a reduced mechanical advantage which limits applied force to the rib. The lever arm may also be made resilient to limit force applied to a rib being clamped.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2001
    Assignee: Dicke Tool Company
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Williams, Grant D. Dicke, James George Kokenes
  • 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: 6151821
    Abstract: A road sign includes an installation portion provided with a lighting window, a sign display portion that includes a sign member that uses light to display a prescribed sign, and a light-guide structure that guides light entering the lighting window to the sign member to display the sign by reflecting or transmitting the light. The road sign configuration renders the sign clearly visible even when the light comes from car headlights on a low-beam setting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2000
    Inventor: Kenichi Nakajima
  • Patent number: 6150949
    Abstract: An optical display device for the representation of signs, especially road signs, in a display frame attached to a support device. The display frame is comprised of strip-shape display segments located at a distance from each other. In order to obtain a small-sized display device perpendicular to the direction in which an observer moves, the support device is aligned in a substantially parallel position to the given direction in which the observer moves, and the display frame is designed to include several display segments, located at a distance from each other, placed behind each other in the direction of movement and corresponding to the chronological order in which the sign is to be represented. The display segments are substantially parallel to the surface normals of the support device for the display frame or inclined at an angle of less than 45.degree. to the surface normals and assigned opposite the sightline of the observer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Assignee: Damback-Werke GmbH
    Inventors: Bernd Eschbach, Erwin Baumstark
  • Patent number: 6148555
    Abstract: A cover or envelope having one open end fits over a traffic sign to cover the sign and its message; new information is presented to motorists by appropriate indicia on a front outer surface of the envelope. A rear side of the envelope includes a slit in its center; the slit extends most of the length of the back side and opens to accommodate the bulk of a post or standard on which the sign is mounted. At the bottom, open edge of the cover, metal rods are incorporated into hems on the cover's edge and have protruding loops or tabs thereon; the loops receive a padlock or other means by which the cover is secured in place over the signboard to prevent the cover's unauthorized removal. For a diamond-shaped signboard, two perpendicular slits divide the rear of the cover into triangular panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Inventors: Mark A. Beauchamp, John A. Burrus