Abstract: A component of an Autonomous Vehicle (AV) system, the component having at least one processor; and a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium including instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to decode data encoded in a signal, wherein the data identifies a pattern of protrusions embedded in a driving surface, the signal being received from at least one vehicle sensor resulting from a vehicle driving over the pattern of protrusions in the driving surface.

Abstract: A method, which can be implemented by a control unit, for carrying out a localization of at least one vehicle by a vehicle-side control unit includes receiving measuring data from at least one sensor, ascertaining at least one marking from the measuring data, and associating the ascertained marking with a marking entered into a digital map for determining a position.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus for controlling a speed regulator are described. A monitor detects a speed of a vehicle. A speed regulator controller retracts the speed regulator from an extended configuration to a retracted configuration based on the detected speed in response to the vehicle traveling at a speed less than a defined speed, the speed regulator being configurable to extend and retract.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a base assembly positionable on a work surface. A first elongated member is pivotally coupled to the base assembly. A second elongated member is affixed to the first elongated member. The second elongated member is configured to pivotally move and intimately contact a vehicle, and to hinder movement of the vehicle over and past the base assembly in response to the vehicle pivotally moving the first elongated member, with a weight of the vehicle received by the base assembly.

Abstract: A pre-fabricated load bearing structural assembly includes a foundation, a pole, and a cap. At least one of the foundation and the cap is unitary fabricated with at least one internal cellular and/or volumetric enclosure that transfers lateral and axial stresses away from the pole. A pole section disposed inside a foundation pole cavity is configured to rest on a corresponding support structure centrally disposed at the bottom of the cavity. The pole section exterior wall/s profile and dimensions in proximity to the pole cavity aperture is/are precisely defined. At least one cap, precisely fabricated, fills in the gap between the exterior wall/s of the pole and the inner wall/s of the pole cavity in proximity to the aperture opening of the pole cavity. The pole resting on the corresponding centrally disposed structure at the bottom of the pole cavity is plumbed by the precisely fabricated cap.

Abstract: A vehicle curb with advertising system including a bottom panel that is connected to a lower curved panel which is then connected to an upper curved panel. These panels distribute axial and translational forces, imparted by the vehicle's tires, by taking advantage of corrugation and curved designs. Further, the upper curved panel is connected to an upper retaining lip, which is then connected to a front concave panel, which is then connected to a lower front retaining lip. The two retaining lips contact the vehicle's tires and together with the concave panel, distribute the externally applied forces throughout the system. Further, the two front retaining lips provide an attaching means for a user to attach a logo or advertisement to the system. The system also has pads connected to the bottom panel that resist the externally applied forces by “gripping” the underlying floor, thus effectively stopping the vehicle without slippage.

Abstract: A vehicle barrier apparatus includes a base and a deployable element. The deployable element is rotatably coupled to the base, enabling transition from a stored orientation to a deployed orientation. The deployable element can engage a vehicle physically in the deployed orientation to impair vehicle motion. An actuating mechanism is mechanically coupled to the deployable element cause the deployable element to move from the stored orientation to the deployed orientation responsive to a trigger. The apparatus may include a triggering device that detects the vehicle and provides the trigger to the actuating mechanism responsive to the detection. In addition, or alternatively, the apparatus can include a communications interface that receives a trigger communication from a remote location and causes the trigger to be provided to the actuating mechanism. The apparatus may be portable.

Abstract: A method for mounting a Weigh-In-Motion (WIM) sensor in a roadway that includes a surface layer and a base layer directly adjacent to the surface layer includes making a groove that extends down to the base layer of the roadway. The WIM sensor is inserted into the groove, and then grout is poured into the groove onto the WIM sensor. A WIM sensor for being embedded in a groove beneath the exposed upper surface of a roadway includes a force introduction flange with an upper surface and having a lateral surface connected by an edge to the upper surface so that the lateral surface is disposed at an angle with respect to the upper surface.

Abstract: Methods, apparatus and systems for tunable photonic harvesting for solar energy conversion and dynamic shading tolerance are provided herein. A method includes determining one or more of multiple portions of a solar photovoltaic module that are underperforming in relation to separate portions of the solar photovoltaic module; configuring multiple reflective surfaces to produce a given configuration of the multiple reflective surfaces in relation to a surface of the solar photovoltaic module based on said determining; collecting (i) direct solar radiation and (ii) diffuse solar radiation incident on a plurality of the multiple reflective surfaces; and distributing (i) the collected direct solar radiation and (ii) the collected diffuse solar radiation across the multiple portions of the solar photovoltaic module in a targeted manner based on the given configuration of the multiple reflective surfaces to offset the underperforming portions of the solar photovoltaic module by a given amount.

Abstract: A retractable, reflective pavement marker for delineating traffic lanes of roadways and a method of installing the same that provides improved protection from potentially damaging vehicle tires, snowplows, and environmental conditions. The marker incorporates a reflector assembly mounted to a piston that is depressible within a housing. A biasing member returns the reflector assembly to its normal position above the road surface. A compliant adhesive cooperates with an adhesive lock formed between the housing and the opening to ensure that the marker is reliably retained within the pavement. The adhesive and a chamfered opening prevent pavement spalling due to external forces. The housing includes a removable retainer through which the piston is reciprocally received. The retainer includes a plurality of coarsely pitched lead-in threads that cooperate with a threaded housing.

Abstract: A road marker device comprising: a housing comprising a flat top surface and configured to be inserted in a road such that the flat top surface is leveled with the road surface; a light source housing operatively coupled with the housing, the light source housing comprising at least one aperture protruding from the flat top surface; at least one light source installed in the light source housing, wherein the at least one light source is visible to users of the road through the at least one aperture; and a tilt mechanism installed in the housing and operatively coupled with the light source housing, the tilt mechanism configured to allow descent of the light source housing below the road surface once a pressure is applied on the light source housing.

Abstract: A road marker device comprising: a housing comprising a flat top surface and configured to be inserted in a road such that the flat top surface is leveled with the road surface; a light source housing operatively coupled with the housing, the light source housing comprising at least one aperture protruding from the flat top surface; at least one light source installed in the light source housing, wherein the at least one light source is visible to users of the road through the at least one aperture; and a tilt mechanism installed in the housing and operatively coupled with the light source housing, the tilt mechanism configured to allow descent of the light source housing below the road surface once a pressure is applied on the light source housing.

Abstract: A vehicle barrier apparatus includes a base and a deployable element. The deployable element is rotatably coupled to the base, enabling transition from a stored orientation to a deployed orientation. The deployable element can engage a vehicle physically in the deployed orientation to impair vehicle motion. An actuating mechanism is mechanically coupled to the deployable element cause the deployable element to move from the stored orientation to the deployed orientation responsive to a trigger. The apparatus may include a triggering device that detects the vehicle and provides the trigger to the actuating mechanism responsive to the detection. In addition, or alternatively, the apparatus can include a communications interface that receives a trigger communication from a remote location and causes the trigger to be provided to the actuating mechanism. The apparatus may be portable.

Abstract: A monitor detects a speed of a vehicle for controlling a speed regulator. A speed regulator controller configures a speed regulator based on the detected speed, the speed regulator being configurable to inflate to an extended configuration and deflate to a retracted configuration, the speed regulator controller configured to inflate the speed regulator to the extended configuration in a first mode and to deflate the speed regulator to the retracted configuration in the first mode based on the detected speed.

Abstract: A bollard security system for opening and shutting an entrance or exit to a passageway includes a plurality of bollards activated by a drive system including a counterweight. The system includes vehicle and or personnel recognition and authorization system for lowering the bollards. The system can be operated manually when the drive system is non-operational.

Abstract: Retractable floor barriers are provided that can be quickly opened and closed by pneumatic actuators and operated by the closing and opening of an electrical circuit. The retractable floor barriers can be used at the docks of trains and subway stations to prevent accidental falls therefrom.

Abstract: A pavement marker is disclosed that includes a base member, two opposite resilient members and an upright member that includes a reflective surface. The resilient members, comprised of polyurethane receive opposite arms that extend from the upright members and allow for pivotal motion when force is applied to the reflective surface of the upright member.

Abstract: A parking post capable of assuming retracted and protracted conformations includes a post moiety including an essentially elongated hollow body and a locking mechanism, adapted to secure the post in the protracted conformation. The parking post includes a pedestal moiety, including top and bottom frames, a housing connected to the top frame, at least two pulleys adapted to receive a string, at least two plummets vertically translatable within the pedestal moiety, the collective weight of which somewhat exceeds the weight of the post moiety. Strings are threaded onto the pulleys and interconnect the plummets with the jogs on the post moiety. An actuation mechanism is used to secure the parking post in the retracted and protracted conformations.

Abstract: The invention relates to a bay loading safety device including: —an articulated platform (14), whose level can be altered to adapt to the differences in height between a lorry trailer (10) and a loading bay (12), —a door (15) for shutting off access from (13) a building (11) opening onto the bay (12), —a set of buffers (16a, 16b) fixed on either side of the platform (14) to provide protection for the bay (12) when the lorry trailer (10) comes alongside the said bay (12), characterized in that it comprises, —a sensor (31) able to monitor a zone (34), called the crush zone, —a sensor (36) able to determine the distance of the lorry (10) from the bay (12), —an obstacle (35) that can be retracted during the travel of a lorry (10), so as to prevent it from coming alongside the bay (12) depending on whether the whole or part of a fixed or mobile object (17) situated in that zone (34) is present and on the distance of the lorry (10) from the bay (12).

Abstract: Systems and methods described herein provide for a flush-mounted vehicle control barrier having a shallow foundation. According to one aspect of the disclosure provided herein, a vehicle control barrier includes a sub-frame, a wedge plate, and an actuator mechanism that is coupled to the sub-frame and disposed within an interior space of the sub-frame.

Abstract: The system for remote control of retractable, ground-based vehicle barriers increases control of the emergency lane of the road by mounting ground signboards in the emergency lane to prevent any vehicle to pass through this lane and so the police vehicle or the ambulance can easily and quickly approach the site of accident through the emergency lane. The signboards include a U-shaped frame permanently mounted in the emergency lane and a panel pivotally attached to the frame. Servo motors are provided to rotate the panels between a vertical position providing a barrier to traffic and a horizontal position permitting an emergency response vehicle to travel through the emergency lane. The emergency response vehicle is provided with a remote control unit having a short-range transmitter that transmits a trigger signal that is received by a unit at the barrier sign to activate a motor controller to lower the sign.

Abstract: The invention relates to an access control device (20) comprising a first housing (21), an obstacle (25) mounted to move in translation in the first housing, a second housing (23) remote (34) from the first housing and receiving an electric motor-and-gearbox unit (26), a deformable link connected to the obstacle and co-operating with the unit, and a mechanical return device for returning the obstacle towards a position projecting out from the first housing, which return device is connected to the deformable link and is arranged in the second housing.

Abstract: A vehicle barrier control device for limiting vehicular access to an area. The vehicle barrier control device includes a barrier system having an active position and a passive position and a control system adapted to move the barrier system between the active position and the passive position. In the active position, the barrier system prevents vehicles from passing through. In the passive position, vehicles are permitted to pass through. The barrier system includes a buttress, movable barrier plate, traffic control arm and a traffic indicating light. The control system comprises a traffic arm motor, programmable logic controller, variable frequency drive, and actuator. The barrier system is temporarily bolted to a sub-frame set in concrete. An actuator motor mounted to an actuator reduces the need for typical hydraulic components. Using a variable speed and reversible actuator motor the present invention provides high-speed movements of the barrier plate for emergency conditions.

Abstract: Disclosed is a self-contained, pop-up bollard barrier system (10) that is capable of working from a single electromechanical actuator (29) with a series of belts (30) and pulleys (38, 38A). The system (10) is built in two parts that once the foundation vault (44) is in place, the internal apparatus or bollard assembly (11) can be removed as a unit for maintenance or can be completely replaced with another assembly to have a brand new barrier without the need of replacing or moving any of the initial foundation. The system (10) enhances the ability of the contractor on site to have a self contained product that only needs wiring and requires no grease while minimizing the installation cost, which is passed on to the end user.

Abstract: A road marker according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention has advantages that exterior impact transmitted from a tire may be absorbed by elastic force of a spring as a consequence of a transparent cover being completely inserted in an upper housing when a vehicle passes on a road marker. The road marker has further advantages in that a vehicle load may not be transmitted to a guide cover and thus breakage of the road marker may be prevented.

Abstract: An anchoring base for a delineating pole using the reconfiguration of protruding resilient mechanical members to facilitate insertion and resist the subsequent extraction force on the pole. The mechanical members extend outwards relative to the insertion rod longitudinal axis, and bend or configure upon insertion of the anchoring base, into a first position that facilitates insertion while impeding and resisting axial extraction forces, and upon subsequent rotation of the anchoring base, the mechanical members bend or reconfigure into a second position such that the extraction resistance force is significantly reduced. The anchoring base design may be used in conjunction with a spring cartridge having a plurality of interlocking members forming a rigid mechanical structure during rotation.

Abstract: A delineator post adapted to spring back to its original upright position after an impact comprises an inground socket permanently installed in a paved surface. A resilient plug having a lower end portion is inserted in the inground socket. The resilient plug has an upper end portion projecting upwardly from the inground socket. An anchor is provided for releasably anchoring the resilient plug to the inground socket. A post segment is fastened over the upper end portion of the resilient plug. The tension in the resilient plug when subject to a deformation as a result of an impact on the post segment returns the post segment back to its original upright position.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for decelerating a train are provided. The method including: disposing a movable surface configured to be moved by the train as the train passes the movable surface; and converting a kinetic energy of the train into potential energy upon movement of the movable surface by the train to thereby decelerate the train. The apparatus including a railway upon which a train travels. The railway including: a movable surface extending in a direction of the train's travel; and potential energy storage device operatively connected to the movable surface for converting a kinetic energy of the train into potential energy upon movement of the movable surface thereby slowing the train.

Abstract: A device for modifying the layout of a vehicle racing course in a wide track section thereof including an arrangement consisting of individual elements for defining the edge of the track located in the region of the track section, which can be displaced, either individually or in groups, from an initial configuration of the track section into a new configuration for reshaping a bend in the racing course or/and for dividing the racing course.

Abstract: A bollard assembly having a post and a sleeve. The post has a cylindrical post wall forming a cavity and a passage in the post wall. The passage has a first section that extends longitudinally along the post wall and a second section that intersects the first section and extends crosswise to the first section. The sleeve has a cylindrical sleeve wall forming a cavity and a latch pin that is attached to the sleeve wall and extends into the cavity. The sleeve is adapted to receive the post such that the latch pin travels through the passage in the post wall.

Abstract: A side guard for a roadway marker comprising an elongate rail member having a top and a bottom. A rooting pin extending from the bottom of the rail member. The rooting pin having a laterally open recess.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for slowing a vehicle. The method including: disposing a predetermined thickness of collapsible material over a base; disposing a plurality of panels over a top surface of the collapsible material over which the vehicle travels; and selectively either supporting one or more of the plurality of panels or allowing the collapsible material to be compressed under the weight of the vehicle.

Abstract: A speed bump device is provided. The speed bump device comprises a first parallelogram frame, wherein the frame comprises an upper nested beam and a lower nested beam, wherein the upper beam and the lower beam are connected by way of at least one pivotable connecting arm, wherein the lower beam comprises at least one depression and at least one raised section, and wherein the upper beam is displaceable, relative to the lower beam, by way of the at least one connecting arm, from a retracted position, through a maximally extended position, to a raised position. A road surface element may suitably overlie the upper beam.

Abstract: An adjustable bollard protects structures from collisions with objects and limits access to particular areas. The bollard includes a rigid post body and a leg structure secured to the rigid body. The leg structure includes at least two leg portions adapted to support the rigid post body, where the two leg portions are separated by a predetermined distance. The bollard further includes an adjustment mechanism coupled to the rigid body, the two leg portions, or both. The adjustment mechanism is configured to apply a force to the rigid post body to flex the rigid body to adjust the predetermined distance for installation of the at least two leg portions. The bollard is constructed of material with sufficient strength and toughness to withstand collisions with heavier industrial type equipment.

Abstract: A solar energy lane marking system for a road surface having at least a traffic lane includes a set of lane markers, and a solar energy collection arrangement. The lane markers are for spacedly providing on the road surface to define the traffic lane, wherein each of the lane markers includes an illuminator for lane illumination. The solar energy collection arrangement is for controlling the set of lane markers in centralized manner to ensure sufficient and consistent illumination of the illuminators, and includes a solar energy collector for collecting solar energy, an energy storage, and a central processing circuitry. The central processing circuitry, which is electrically connecting the energy storage with the illuminators of the lane markers, operatively controls the illuminators of the lane markers as an illuminable road divider for identifying the traffic lane in case of low visibility of the traffic lane.

Abstract: A method for slowing a vehicle traveling over a movable surface in a direction of travel where the vehicle has a first wheel and at least a second wheel offset from the first wheel in a direction opposite to the direction of travel. The method including: deploying the movable surface to an open position; moving the movable surface to a closed position due to the weight exerted on the movable surface by the first wheel of the vehicle as it travels over the movable surface; locking the movable surface in the closed position to convert at least a portion of a kinetic energy of the vehicle into potential energy to slow the vehicle; and redeploying the movable surface to the open position such that at least the moving can be repeated due to the weight exerted on the movable surface by the second wheel of the vehicle.

Abstract: The invention relates to an infill which can be inserted into a bollard footing hole. The infill is designed such that it allows a bollard to be fit over it, and the infill fits within a footing hole. Methods of covering a footing hole are also bought.

Abstract: Traffic delineators may be surface mounted on either level or sloped surfaces. A delineator mounting system adapted for the surface-mounting of a delineator includes a base having a generally-planar bottom surface, a cavity in the base, a top surface, and walls forming an aperture through the top surface to the cavity. A coupling has legs, with at least one leg being interfitted with the cavity of the base, and at least one other leg extending through the aperture of the base. A delineator is fastened to the leg of the coupling extending through the aperture of the base.

Abstract: A protruding road warning device includes a base plate, at least one mounting spike, a cushioned pad and at least one reflector. The base plate has a bottom surface, a top surface and a breakable segment. The bottom surface has multiple fastening recesses, at least one groove and at least one connecting surface. The at least one groove is defined in the bottom surface. The at least one connecting surface corresponds to and is formed respectively inside the at least one groove. The at least one break segment is formed respectively between the at least one groove and the top surface. The at least one mounting spike is connected respectively to the at least one connecting surface on the bottom surface. The cushioned pad is mounted on the top surface of the base plate. The at least one reflector is mounted on the cushioned pad.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are passive and active vehicle arresting barrier systems that may be combined to provide anti-ram protection along an entire perimeter of a secured area including vehicle access points. A perimeter fence portion is a passive barrier system that stops an attacking vehicle within a predetermined penetration distance and may blend into an existing perimeter fence structure to provide an architecturally hidden structure. The access opening portion utilizes a collapsible road deck and an underlying pit that does not require hydraulic or electrical means to deploy.

Abstract: An automatic retractable delineator with a housing containing a reciprocating delineator post that reciprocates through an opening in the top surface of the housing. A raising and lowering mechanism is disposed inside the housing and is mechanically coupled to the post. The housing defines an inside cavity that is provided with positive pressure to create a pressure differential between the cavity and the atmosphere. As a result, the housing is substantially protected from the elements as the pressure differential prevents foreign objects and moisture such as dirt, salt, ice, snow or the like from entering the cavity.

Abstract: There is provided a lifting pole apparatus which can lift and lower a pole having such strength as to be capable of preventing cars from entering. The lifting pole apparatus comprises a cylindrical pole which is capable of lifting and lowering inside a housing case; a screw shaft hanging from a top portion of the pole inwardly; a stay disposed upright on a bottom portion of the housing case, and housed in the pole; a driving gear rotatably supported on the stay, and having a screw portion on a through hole disposed at a center axis thereof, the screw portion being threadably mounted on the screw shaft; at least two motors disposed on the stay for rotating the driving gear; and an electro-magnetic brake disposed on the stay for activating the brake on the rotation of the driving gear.

Abstract: A vehicle access control bollard for path entryways and restricted drives which allows access for approved vehicles through the use of a self-contained interior lowering mechanism. The three-piece bollard comprises a lower section which is concreted below grade, an intermediate section which houses the interior slip-fit hinge lowering assembly, and an upper section that stands vertically or can be lowered to an approximately four and one-half to five inch clearance height to allow approved vehicles to pass over. There are no exterior hinges, locks, or bolts, thereby giving the appearance of a single permanent non-movable bollard.

Abstract: An unobtrusive on-grade barrier. One embodiment comprises a concrete-lined trench over which a biased hinged plate is affixed to an end wall of the trench. The biased hinge holds the free end of the plate against a tab affixed to the other end wall, assuring the plate does not rise above grade. The plate is supported for vehicle passage by a sliding mechanism energized by an actuator controlled by a controller that may be automated or operated by security personnel. The barrier may be configured so that vehicles may approach from either end. Upon authorizing access to the driver, the vehicle is permitted to pass over the supported plate. If the driver is not authorized access, the support is slid out of the way and any vehicle attempting to pass slides into the trench. Embodiments may include means for clearing the trench of a trapped vehicle.

Abstract: A recessed delinator base for disposition in grooves in a highway or traffic support surface has a body member with leg portions attached to the body and extending outwardly therefrom. The body has a circular notch formed therein to accept a traffic delineator knuckle assembly. Within the notch and extending upwardly from the bottom thereof are a plurality of spaced apart studs. Each stud has and enlarged head portion. At least one detent receiving hole is provided in the bottom of the notch for accepting a detent lock pin for securing the knuckle assembly from rotation once placed within the recessed circular notch in the base. The ramping or sloping legs urge a clearing implement to slide along the top-most portion of the body member thereby avoiding engagement with the knuckle attachment studs when the support surface is cleared or cleaned.

Abstract: A post mounting arrangement for ground installation of a post comprising a tubular body portion (6) which is adapted to be installed into the ground and has an open end adapted to receive a post (2) to be supported. The open end of the tubular body portion comprises an enlarged flange portion defining a head portion (14) of the tubular main body portion (6). The head flange portion (14) includes a resilient retaining collar (12, 12?) adapted to receive and engage the post, and a strengthening band (8). The head portion (14) comprises a first recess (22) defined therein within which the said collar (12, 12?) is engaged and mounted, and a second recess (20) defined in the head portion adapted to receive the said strengthening band (8). The collar may comprise a shock absorbing element (12?) having a groove (42) capable of receiving an expansion ring (44) to lock the element into place and seal it both to the post (2) and the head portion (14).

Abstract: A road-marking system has at least a first lighting module (4) provided in a road surface (1). The lighting module (4) is provided with a plurality of light emitting surfaces (14, 14?, . . . ). The lighting module (4) has connection means (7, 7) for providing electrical connection between the lighting module (4) and the electrical current supply conductor (6). Preferably, the current supply conductor (6) is provided in a duct (8) provided with an opening (8?) at the location of the lighting module (4).

Abstract: A safety bollard, post or stanchion to protect adjacent a vehicular area, each bollard, post or stanchion being so designed to provide a progressively increasing resistance to bending and/or deformation on impact by a vehicle, whereby the force of impact is progressively absorbed by the bollard, post or stanchion and deformation of the vehicle whereby the vehicle is progressively decelerated.

Abstract: A retractable speed bump helps control the speed of a vehicle traveling through a special speed zone such as a school zone or a road construction site. A housing is either buried in the roadway or is placed into a ramp that seats on top of the roadway, the housing having a retractable canister therein, which canister extends above the housing in response to the speed of a vehicle as detected by a speed sensor. The greater the speed of the vehicle, the greater the level of extension of the canister. The canister may have tire shredding spikes or explosive charges therein.

Abstract: A roadway upon which a vehicle travels is provided in which the vehicle is decelerated. The roadway includes: a movable surface extending in a direction of the vehicle's travel; and a potential energy storage mechanism operatively connected to the movable surface for converting a kinetic energy of the vehicle into potential energy upon movement of the movable surface thereby slowing the vehicle. Also provided is a roadway upon which a wheeled vehicle travels in which the vehicle is accelerated. The roadway includes: a movable surface extending in a direction of the vehicle's travel; and a potential energy transfer mechanism operatively connected to the movable surface for transferring a stored potential energy associated with the movable surface into kinetic energy upon movement of the movable surface thereby propelling the vehicle.