Traffic Steering Device Or Barrier Patents (Class 404/6)
  • Publication number: 20100008721
    Abstract: The invention relates to a vehicle restraint system provided for delimiting roadways and including guide barriers (1) which are placed next to one another in a detachable manner. Each guide barrier (1) includes a housing-type base body (2) that can be placed upright on the ground and a guide rail (14) arranged above the base body (2). The guide rail (14) and the base body (2) can be coupled together by means of tension rods (19), wherein each tension rod (29) is connected to the guide rail (14) with an upper end (20) and can be tightened at a bottom end (22) in an abutment (23) arranged in the base body (2). The guide rail (14) and the base body (2) are suitably arranged at a vertical distance from one another by spacers (30), with the tension rod (19) extending through the spacers (30).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2007
    Publication date: January 14, 2010
    Applicant: HEINTZMANN SICHREHEITSSYSTEME GMBH 7 CO. KG
    Inventors: Horst Lass, Werner Heimann, Walter Klein, Barbara Von Linsingen-Hintzmann
  • Publication number: 20100000167
    Abstract: A moveable barrier includes a frame having a plurality of spaced apart frame members and a reinforcing layer fastened to at least one of the frame members. A first concrete portion at least partially embeds at least one of the frame members, and a foot assembly is attached to the frame. The foot assembly is rotatable from a stored position generally in-plane with the frame, to a deployed position generally normal to the plane of the frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2008
    Publication date: January 7, 2010
    Inventor: Stephen Jirsa
  • Publication number: 20100003078
    Abstract: A car-attack defending apparatus includes a pressure-sensitive reaction module, an emergent airbag-inflation module, a crash barrier module, and an integral exterior unit module, wherein the pressure-sensitive reaction module has a pressure-sensitive setting and triggering mechanism, the emergent inflation airbag module has an emergent airbag expansion mechanism, and the crash barrier module has a crash-resistant steel plate. The car-attack defending apparatus can be disposed at entrances of specific buildings or restricted areas, so that at the moment a suspected car ignores warning and attempts to access the site, the emergent airbag expansion mechanism will be triggered, by the weight of the car, so as to expand the airbag simultaneously, and to stretch the crash-resistant steel plate to form a barrier. As such, the suspected car can be prevented from moving further, allowing checkpoint personnel a safe standoff distance from car bombs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2008
    Publication date: January 7, 2010
    Applicant: National Taipei University of Technology
    Inventors: Chih-Hong Huang, Yu-Chou Wu
  • Patent number: 7641417
    Abstract: A tire deflation device includes (1) a component having a plurality of bores, (2) a plurality of spikes removably insertable into the plurality of bores and (3) a keeper within each among the plurality of bores, the keeper being configured to contact a sidewall surface of a spike among the plurality of spikes and to exert force upon the sidewall surface. In an embodiment, the tire deflation device includes (a) a component including a bore in a material, the bore including a receiving region, a sidewall surface and a base surface, (b) a channel extending from the sidewall surface into the material, (c) a keeper having a first section housed within the channel and a second section which extends past the sidewall surface into the receiving region, and (d) a spike removably insertable into the bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: Battelle Energy Alliance, LLC
    Inventor: Stacey G. Barker
  • Patent number: 7641416
    Abstract: A vehicle barrier deployment system comprises a base member, at least two lifting members, at least one barrier member, and an actuation assembly. The lifting members are pivotally secured to the base member, and are operable to be selectively raised and lowered in a vertical direction relative to the base member. The at least one barrier member is in communication with the lifting members, and is configured to stop a moving vehicle when the lifting members are in a raised position. The actuation assembly is in communication with the lifting members, and is operable to selectively raise and lower the lifting members by moving at least a portion of each of the lifting members in a direction transverse to a traffic lane. The barrier member may comprise chains, a guardrail, or other structures. The system may be mobile or may be fixed (e.g., embedded in ground) in a particular location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Inventor: Gary Dale Miracle
  • Publication number: 20090317185
    Abstract: A vehicle arresting device comprises a net intended to be laid flat on the ground in the path of a target vehicle with an array of upwardly-directed spikes attached to the net along a leading portion, so that when a vehicle runs over the device some of the spikes engage in its front tires and the net is caused to wrap around the front wheels, being pulled tight under the vehicle to prevent further rotation of those wheels. There are two rows of spikes, with the spikes in the second row being substantially longer than the spikes in the leading row. The gauge of the netting also varies, with the leading strip which includes the shorter spikes and back towards the longer spikes being of a thinner gauge, the portion from the longer spikes back to approximately the mid length of the net being of a thicker gauge, and the trailing portion reverting to the thinner gauge. These measures help to ensure that the net is capable of arresting a wide range of vehicles, from passenger cars to trucks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2008
    Publication date: December 24, 2009
    Applicant: QINETIQ LIMITED
    Inventors: Christopher Drew COOMBER, Philip John DANDY, Brett Robert LOWERY, Christopher James LYDDON
  • Publication number: 20090311044
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a safety trailer has semi-tractor hitches at both ends and a safety wall that is fixed to one side of the trailer. That side, however, can be changed to the right or left side of the road, depending on the end to which the truck attaches. A caboose can be attached at the end of the trailer opposite the tractor to provide additional lighting and impact protection. Optionally, the trailer can be equipped with overhead protection, lighting, ventilation, onboard hydraulics, compressors, generators and other equipment, as well as related fuel, water, storage and restroom facilities and other amenities.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2008
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Applicant: IWAPI INC.
    Inventors: Kevin K. Groeneweg, David Meyerink, Duane Meyerink, LeRoy Severson
  • Publication number: 20090297263
    Abstract: In a concrete safety barrier element (11, 12) with at least one tension member (3) for connection with an end face to another concrete safety barrier element (12), it is proposed for ensuring high degree of safety and simple handling, to provide—as viewed in the operating position—at least one vertical guide groove (22) for a damping element (4) on at least one of the end faces (21), wherein the guide groove (22) includes lateral boundaries (23) for the damping element (4), and wherein the guide groove (22) is configured for insertion of the damping element (4) from the top.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2006
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Applicant: DELTA BLOC EUROPA GMBH
    Inventors: Mathias Redlberger, Franz Spitzer
  • Publication number: 20090290324
    Abstract: A safety trailer has semi-tractor hitches at both ends and a safety wall that is fixed to one side of the trailer. That side, however, can be changed to the right or left side of the road, depending on the end to which the truck attaches. A caboose can be attached at the end of the trailer opposite the tractor to provide additional lighting and impact protection. Optionally, the trailer can be equipped with overhead protection, lighting, ventilation, onboard hydraulics, compressors, generators and other equipment, as well as related fuel, water, storage and restroom facilities and other amenities.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2009
    Publication date: November 26, 2009
    Applicant: IWAPI INC.
    Inventor: Kevin K. Groeneweg
  • Publication number: 20090285629
    Abstract: A compact vehicle tire puncturing and deflating assembly for use by law enforcement personnel in preventing high-speed chases comprising a base having a first end and a second end a spike holder attached to the first end of the base, the spike holder being permitted to rotate from a first closed position generally parallel to the base and a second tire puncturing position at an acute angle to the base; and a plurality of spikes attached to the spike holder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2007
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Inventor: Ardeshir Dhondy
  • Patent number: 7618212
    Abstract: A barrier device comprises a top wall, a bottom wall, opposed end walls and opposed side walls interconnected to form a hollow interior in which a pair of spaced openings are formed which extend between the side walls. An external reinforcement structure is provided to enhance the structural integrity of the barrier device, including first and second beams each located along one of the side walls which are connected to one another by a mounting device extending through the openings in the hollow interior, or, alternatively, are mounted within a seat formed in each side wall between the opposed ends of the barrier device. The beams of one barrier device are connected end-to-end with the beams of adjacent barrier devices to form an essentially continuous wall of barriers which resist disengagement from one another and exhibit improved resistance to being broken apart upon impact by a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Inventors: Leo J. Yodock, III, Leo J. Yodock, Jr., Guy C. Yodock
  • Publication number: 20090279948
    Abstract: A barrier adapted to be set up for temporary traffic control comprises a man-portable unit placed on the ground from which a boom, preferably in the form of a reelable tube, can be withdrawn. The boom extends at an oblique angle to the ground in its “down” position and a motor within the ground-standing unit can raise and lower it between that position and an “up” position at a greater angle to the ground in which traffic can pass.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2007
    Publication date: November 12, 2009
    Applicant: QINETIQ LIMITED
    Inventor: David John Allsopp
  • Patent number: 7614830
    Abstract: Embodiments of retaining wall systems suitable for use as a traffic barrier for roadways include a prefabricated concrete retaining wall section and a pour-in-place footing. Another system includes a pre-cast retaining wall section and a pre-cast footing. In use, a plurality of retaining wall sections may be placed side-by-side in close proximity to one another to allow for a continuous retaining wall to be constructed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2009
    Assignee: Tri-State Construction, Inc.
    Inventor: Greg Ritke
  • Patent number: 7614819
    Abstract: A post assembly having a first post member, a second post member positioned within the first post member, and a sleeve member installed in the ground. The first and second post members are insertable into the sleeve member and the second post member is rotatable relative to the first post member and the sleeve member to inhibit separation of the first post member and the second post member from the ground sleeve. The first post member includes a first passage, the second post member includes a second passage having a first section and a second section, and the sleeve member includes a latch pin that travels along the first and second passages. When the latch pin is in a particular position within the first and second passages, removal of the first post member and the second post member from the sleeve member is inhibited.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2009
    Assignee: Schram Management Company
    Inventors: Clifford R. Mirman, Jon M. Schram
  • Patent number: 7611305
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Inventors: Jahangir S. Rastegar, Thomas Spinelli
  • Patent number: 7607856
    Abstract: A bollard system includes leveling legs for each section of the system, support plates rotated to distribute force to supporting beams, and connecting angles to join together adjacent sub-assemblies within a single installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Inventor: Niraj Patel
  • Patent number: 7607645
    Abstract: A highway crash barrier structure with an improved interlocking system includes a plurality of rigid sections disposed end-to-end in interlocking relationship with one another. The ends of each rigid upright section are provided with a reshaped JJ Hooks® connection. Each hook member has an extending vertical lip which is bent into a “J” shaped cross-section to engage a similar lip on the hook member of the adjacent section such that lateral movement of the respective sections is prevented. However, the respective sections of the system can be easily placed or removed by vertically displacing them. In addition, the interlocking plates at each end of the upright sections are vertically lengthened while the number of bars welded to the plate is increased to reduce the rotational moment of the sections and increase shear transfer between adjacent sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Assignee: Easi-Set Industries
    Inventor: Rodney Smith
  • Publication number: 20090263190
    Abstract: A barrier (B) for arresting motion of a vehicle driven in an incoming direction (V) and having wheels (18) with tires that couple to fasteners (20) retained in a substrate (10). The substrate has a thickness (T) and is disposed on the ground (G). The fasteners are single-piece fasteners configured for self-retention into the substrate thickness and into a wheel driven over a fastener. A fastener may be configured for engagement via the top surface (14) of the substrate or via the bottom surface (16) of the substrate which has a base (31) with at least one prong (30) or a base (31) with at least one prong and at least one hook (35). The substrate is either a three-dimensional woven web of loops, or a full, or a foamed substrate. The fasteners are introduced into and may be retrieved out of the substrate either manually or mechanically.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2009
    Publication date: October 22, 2009
    Inventor: Iftach SEGAL
  • Publication number: 20090263191
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a vehicle disablement device that includes deployment of a tire puncture strip in front of the tire of a moving vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2009
    Publication date: October 22, 2009
    Inventors: Michael P. Moormeier, Todd O'Halloran
  • Patent number: 7604268
    Abstract: A trailer crash attenuation assembly includes a longitudinal hollow member adapted to act as a hydraulic cylinder at one end, hydraulic fluid disposed in the hydraulic cylinder and a tank connected to the hydraulic cylinder to receive and store said hydraulic fluid expressed from the hydraulic cylinder. A first longitudinal telescopic member is adapted to slide into and out of the longitudinal hollow member and is adapted to act a piston. Two other longitudinal hollow members are positioned substantially parallel to and on either side of the first longitudinal hollow member and are connected to the first longitudinal hollow member. Two telescopic members are adapted to slide into and out of the two other longitudinal hollow members respectively. A casing is connected at its proximal end to all three longitudinal hollow members, is adapted at its distal end to receive a crash cushion; and has a pair of wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2009
    Assignee: TMA Acquisition, LLC
    Inventor: Albert W. Unrath, Sr.
  • Patent number: 7604430
    Abstract: The assembly of the mobile swing-gate is installed in the channel that is dug across the entire width of the road, and the sides of the excavation are reinforced by wall (5). The created recess is over-bridged by swing-gate (1). One side of swing-gate (1) is connected onto joint (2) that is fixed onto channel wall (5). The opposite side of swing-gate (1) is supported by support grate (3) that by its upper side leans against swing-gate (1) and by its lower side against the corner of wall (5). Steel rope (4) is attached at the upper side of the support grate. By pulling steel rope (4) the support grate (3) eludes bellow swing-gate (1) that remains without support at that side, rotates about joint (2) and falls into the channel, and in such a way a recess is opened in the road.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2009
    Inventor: Boris Pervan
  • Patent number: 7600942
    Abstract: A barrier device comprises a top wall, a bottom wall, opposed end walls and opposed side walls interconnected to form a hollow interior in which a pair of spaced openings are formed which extend between the side walls. An external reinforcement structure is provided to enhance the structural integrity of the barrier device, including first and second beams each located along one of the side walls which are connected to one another by adjustable mounting structure extending through the openings. The beams of one barrier device, in turn, are connected end-to-end with the beams of an adjacent barrier device to form an essentially continuous, interconnected wall of barriers which resist disengagement from one another and exhibit improved resistance to being broken apart upon impact by a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2009
    Inventors: Leo J. Yodock, III, Leo J. Yodock, Jr., Guy C. Yodock
  • Patent number: 7600282
    Abstract: A height-adjustable docking buffer is described for protecting facades when vehicles are docked in building openings. The docking buffer is made up of a fixed mounting frame and a height-adjustable buffer block for a loading ramp or a transfer bridge. The buffer block is designed as an essentially horizontal bumper bar, and includes an inflatable gasket, the ends of which are height-adjustably supported on two spaced, fixed mounting frames, preferably in the form of pillars. A method for operating the docking bar is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2009
    Inventor: Niclas Grunewald
  • Publication number: 20090250675
    Abstract: A vehicle barrier having an impact side, a reflection side opposite the impact side, and a plurality of interior walls extending between the impact side and the reflection side. The refection side, the impact side, and the plurality of interior walls are formed from vertically-oriented sheets of barrier material (when in the deployed configuration). Further, the refection side, the impact side, and the plurality of interior walls define multiple chambers. The chambers can be packed with fill material to stop an oncoming vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2009
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Inventors: Arthur Henry Cashin, Sheldrick Faris Hawkins, William McAdam Hawkins, Brian Andrew Hickle, Marc Douglas Verble, Frank Lee Hollowell, JR.
  • Patent number: 7597501
    Abstract: An energy absorbing terminal is described that is made up of a plurality of cells partially defined by cambered panels made of thermoplastic or another suitable material. The panels are supported upon rectangular frames. The cambered portion of the panels provides a predetermined point of flexure for each panel and, thus, allows for energy dissipation during a collision. The stiffness of the crash cushion may be varied by altering material thicknesses and diaphragm spacing. In operation, a vehicle colliding in an end-on manner with the upstream end of the energy absorbing terminal will cause each of the cambered panels to bend angularly at its point of flexure and, thus, cause the cells to collapse axially. The use of thermoplastic, such as polyethylene results in a reversible, self-restoring collapse for the terminal, meaning that the terminal is reusable after most collisions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: The Texas A&M University System
    Inventors: Dean C. Alberson, D. Lance Bullard, Jr., Christopher J. Karpathy, John F. Carney, III
  • Patent number: 7588387
    Abstract: A barrier includes a housing having a front wall and an opposing back wall each extending between opposing sidewalls. The housing also includes a floor and an interior surface bounding a chamber, the chamber communicating externally through an inlet opening. A first inset projects into the chamber from the front wall so as to form a recessed blind pocket on the front wall. A second inset projects into the chamber from the back wall so as to form a recessed blind pocket on the back wall. The first inset and the second inset are connected together within the chamber so that the chamber encircles the connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2009
    Assignee: Off the Wall Products, LLC
    Inventors: Marc E. Christensen, Greg H. Brown, David E. Cowan, Bryan D. Grabowski, Charles M. Mettler, Bruce E. Owens, Patricia Russell
  • Publication number: 20090226252
    Abstract: A barrier system of the type comprising posts or pillars from which webbing extends, commonly used to demark one area from another. The barrier system comprises a pillar that tapers from a larger area base to a smaller area top. A reel assembly is located at or proximate the base section and provides a deployable and retractable length of webbing that exits from the housing near the top. The plane of the webbing as it extends upwardly has its longitudinal direction extending generally upwardly and a guide, such as a conically tapered pulley, directs the webbing from a substantially vertically extending longitudinal configuration to a substantially horizontally extending configuration in which the webbing exits the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2005
    Publication date: September 10, 2009
    Inventor: David G. Field
  • Patent number: 7581351
    Abstract: A speed barrier includes a heavy lower barrier and a lighter upper gate. The barrier and gate may normally be positioned to allow or to restrict passing of vehicles. The barrier is configured to receive and survive the main impact of a vehicle attempting to ram through the speed barrier. The gate and barrier are coupled to allow an extension or a retraction of the gate and barrier in unison. The barrier and gate are supported by left and right columns, and an upper end of the gate is supported by the columns when the gate and barrier are extended.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Inventor: Christopher Lewis
  • Publication number: 20090208285
    Abstract: An anti-ram system and method of construction having a shallow mounted base pad from which extend a plurality of bollards. Very little or only a shallow excavation is required for the base of the bollard system, which can be partially or fully assembled prior to bringing it to the installation site. The shallow mounting pad or base of the bollard system of this invention may be formed or constructed in various ways and of various materials, and in various configurations. The shallow mounting pad or base is constructed so as to have considerable mass.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2005
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Inventors: Richard S. Adler, John Crawford
  • Patent number: 7575391
    Abstract: A system for protecting persons from impacts against road crash barriers in which the barrier rail has a curved upper part and has protuberances to absorb and decelerate the velocity of the vehicle or accident victim, and the posts supporting the barrier rail are provided with cladding formed of a number of concentric rings of variable thickness and made of material which deforms flexibly and recovers immediately which incorporates a housing designed to fit the post through pressure and a clamping effect in addition to any bar system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Assignee: Taexpa, S.L.
    Inventor: Ramiro Tarazona de La Asunción
  • Publication number: 20090202296
    Abstract: A light weight, high strength cable supported by a longitudinal device that is capable of stopping a 15,000 lb vehicle at speeds exceeding 30 mph and provides for manual operation by one (1) person, whereas the barrier may pivot, move vertically, or swivel horizontally to control vehicle passage. Typically, the cable is embedded within a longitudinal support device and remains concealed. During normal operations where the vehicle barrier is moved, there is no tension on the cable and it remains unfastened. If a vehicle impact occurs, the cable immediately engages and fastens to the end support structures to resist vehicle impact forces. The light weight cable and longitudinal support device provides span distances exceeding 24 feet across a vehicle travel path, while requiring only one (1) person to manually move the barrier. The light weight cable and longitudinal support device also minimizes the counterweight size. The barrier may be moved by an operator from either side of the vehicle travel path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2008
    Publication date: August 13, 2009
    Inventor: Michael John Lamore
  • Patent number: 7572022
    Abstract: A safety trailer has semi-tractor hitches at both ends and a safety wall that is fixed to one side of the trailer. That side, however, can be changed to the right or left side of the road, depending on the end to which the truck attaches. A caboose can be attached at the end of the trailer opposite the tractor to provide additional lighting and impact protection. Optionally, the trailer can be equipped with overhead protection, lighting, ventilation, onboard hydraulics, compressors, generators and other equipment, as well as related fuel, water, storage and restroom facilities and other amenities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Assignee: IWAPI, Inc.
    Inventor: Kevin K. Groeneweg
  • Patent number: 7573379
    Abstract: A device when activated, disables a fleeing vehicle from within the operator's vehicle. The device mounts directly to the operator's vehicle. This device is controlled by the operator from within the vehicle by way of a control panel. When deemed necessary, the system is armed using a switch mounted on said panel. This allows for deployment upon activation of said switch. Upon positioning of operator car, the switch is activated, extending spike strip laterally. This places the spike strip under the pursued vehicle, in front of one or more of the tires. The operator applies the brakes of said vehicle, causing the spike strip to travel under the pursued vehicle's tire, disabling the vehicle. Upon traveling under the tire, the operator removes pressure from switch, causing the unit to safely stow itself. The system can then be re-deployed at will.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Assignees: Pursuit Management, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Patrick Moormeier, Todd Cory O'Halloran
  • Publication number: 20090196688
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a glare screen for road median barriers, which is configured not only to enable the locations of median barriers to be distinguished, both at night and in bad weather, but also to enable the road traffic conditions ahead to be determined. The glare screen for road median barriers according to the present invention includes a safety guidance lamp using solar power, by which the locations of median barriers can be easily distinguished at night or in bad weather, so that safe travel can be achieved and traffic accidents can be prevented from occurring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2007
    Publication date: August 6, 2009
    Inventor: Shin Nam Park
  • Patent number: 7568857
    Abstract: Anti-break-through safety barrier able to be used in correspondence with a site to be protected. The anti-break-through safety barrier comprises a plurality of modular elements coupled together so as to slide vertically with respect to the other. Each modular element comprises a stiff and armor-plated protecting wall, which is fixed laterally to a pair of supports. Each modular element is further movable between an inactive position, located below a determined trampling reference plane and a lifted position above the trampling reference plane to define a single compact protecting structure, stiff and armor-plated, anchored to the floor or to the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Assignee: Cos.Me. Costruzioni Metalliche SRL
    Inventor: Luciano Riotto
  • Patent number: 7566187
    Abstract: A towable, articulated elongated traffic barrier includes traffic barrier modules having articulating interconnected ends. A restrictor element restricts articulation between adjacent modules. Each module includes two spaced wheel assemblies positioned inwardly from the ends thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2009
    Assignee: Barrier Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Gerrit Dyke, Alvaro E. Morales Flores
  • Publication number: 20090185857
    Abstract: An energy absorbing system. The energy absorbing system includes a supporting member, a barrier mechanically coupled to the supporting member, the barrier pivotable between a first angular position and a second angular position, an energy absorber, at least a portion of which is immovably fixed, that is mechanically coupled to the supporting member, wherein the energy absorber absorbs energy when the supporting member travels from a first lateral position to a second lateral position, and a first rotation limiter mechanically coupled to one of the barrier and the supporting member that limits the barrier from pivoting beyond the second angular position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2009
    Publication date: July 23, 2009
    Inventors: Matthew A. Gelfand, Joel F. Hugghins
  • Patent number: 7563051
    Abstract: The invention discloses a vehicle barrier system (10) including a barrier (46) movable between an open position to allow vehicle access therethrough and a closed position which prevents vehicle access therethrough. Barrier (46) is attached to barrier supports (48, 50) at either end of barrier (46) with barrier supports (48, 50) being secured to a ground engaging slide plate (52). The ground engaging slide plate (52) will slide after a predetermined force is applied thereto by vehicle (102) impact with barrier (46) to absorb the impact energy of vehicle (102).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Assignee: Tallwang Holdings Pty. Ltd.
    Inventors: Nigel Buckley, Paul Morris Deed, Zeljko Macher
  • Patent number: 7559535
    Abstract: A guardrail support, attachment and positioning block used to space guardrails from support posts is disclosed. The positioning or spacer block is a generally rectangular block having corded-out cavities to reduce weight and tabs or projections for cooperatively engaging the sides and top of a support post as well as the edges of the guardrail during roadway safety barrier system installation. Webbing within one or more of the cavities may be used for additional structural support. To optimize the strength to weight characteristics of the spacer block, the spacer block may be formed by low-pressure injection molding. The spacer block may also be formed from virgin and/or recycled plastic material and/or include virgin or recycled rubber material, such as that obtained from the regrind of used tires, and/or another elastomeric materials from other sources.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Assignee: K.E.S.S. Inc.
    Inventor: David T. King
  • Publication number: 20090175680
    Abstract: An energy absorbing system. The system includes an energy absorber mechanically coupled to a net, a joint mechanically coupled to an anchor, and a support mechanically coupled to the net via a frangible connector. The frangible connector may uncouple the support from the net upon application of at least a threshold force to the frangible connector. The joint may pivot on a horizontal axis and support the energy absorber at a predetermined angle relative to ground level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2008
    Publication date: July 9, 2009
    Inventor: Matthew Gelfand
  • Patent number: 7556243
    Abstract: An apparatus for preventing a collision between a vehicle and an end of a Metal Beam Guide Fence. A transition device is attached to a modified section of the Metal Beam Guide Fence. The transition device and modified section are configured to allow passage of cables of a High Tension Cable Barrier through the Metal Beam Guide Fence and the transition device. The High Tension Cable Barrier redirects the colliding vehicle away from the end of the Metal Beam Guide Fence. The transition device and modified section are also configured to interact with the cables of the High Tension Cable Barrier to transfer and spread the collision load from the high tension cables to the Metal Beam Guide Fence.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2009
    Inventor: John P. Williams
  • Publication number: 20090162142
    Abstract: A blocking system or blocking body (1) is provided that is composed of at least four means or members (2) that have a common base (3) and in the transport state are pivoted upwards so that the tips (2.1) of all means (2) lie in one plane, wherein the means (2) in the active state are orientated in such a way that at least three tips (2.1) form contact points (9) on a surface (8) and at least the fourth means (2) pointing upwards penetrates one of the wheels when it is run over. This type of crow's foot (blocking body (1)) can be delivered by means of a thrower or by depositing it into the terrain in which the vehicles are situated, and whose continued travel is to be prevented.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2008
    Publication date: June 25, 2009
    Applicant: Rheinmetall Landsysteme GmbH
    Inventor: Hermann Grosch
  • Patent number: 7547157
    Abstract: A barrier device comprises a top wall, a bottom wall, opposed end walls and opposed side walls formed of plastic material which interconnect to form a hollow, closed interior in which the inner surface of each wall is covered with a layer of foam material and then the remainder of the hollow interior is filled with a ballast material such as water, sand, rubber, concrete and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2009
    Inventors: Leo J. Yodock, III, Leo J. Yodock, Jr., Guy C. Yodock
  • Patent number: 7544009
    Abstract: A combined guardrail and cable safety system is disclosed. In one aspect, the present invention teaches a safety barrier including a plurality of cable posts spaced from each other and disposed adjacent to a roadway. At least two cables are releasably engaged with and supported by the cable posts. The cable posts and the two cables cooperate with each other to prevent a vehicle from leaving the roadway. A plurality of guardrail posts are spaced from each other and disposed adjacent to the roadway longitudinally spaced from the plurality of cable post. A guardrail beam is fixedly coupled to the plurality of guardrail posts and including slots. The two cables extend from the cable posts through respective slots formed in the guardrail beam permitting each cable to engage a respective cable anchor bracket securely fastened to a portion of the guardrail beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Assignee: Trinity Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter Bergendahl, Don J. Gripne, Chuck Norton, Elzard Sikkema
  • Patent number: 7540682
    Abstract: A control barrier includes a barrier wall having a front face and an opposing back face each extending between a top end and an opposing bottom end, a first recess being formed on the front face at the bottom end of the barrier wall. A first slot extends through the barrier wall from the first recess to the back face. An elongated first leg is coupled with the barrier wall so that the first leg can selectively rotate and can selectively slide. A first foot is mounted on the elongated first leg, the first foot being selectively movable between a first position wherein the first foot is at least partially disposed within the recess of the barrier wall and a second position wherein the first foot is rotated a least 45° relative to the first position and is removably positioned within the slot extending through the barrier wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2009
    Assignee: Off the Wall Products LLC
    Inventors: Marc E. Christensen, David J. Lipniarski
  • Patent number: 7538688
    Abstract: Temporary safety zones are established by deploying a plurality of safety icons connected by extensible, brightly colored, retro-reflective tapes. The tapes are retracted within the housings of the safety icons. A plurality of modules having different functions are removably affixed to the base of the safety icons, the modules including sensors, beacons, transceivers, detection devices, and audio receivers and video cameras. Because the modules are manually interchangeable, the safety zones can be implemented for specific, interchangeable circumstances, e.g., a surveillance station, portable helipad, landing strip, and restricted area barriers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Inventor: Robin Hardie Stewart
  • Patent number: 7536973
    Abstract: Plastic blow molded board-like members include a plurality of longitudinally extending, laterally spaced aligned channels/grooves in opposite sides of the members. Each of the channels has closely spaced apart side walls and inner end walls. The inner end walls of aligned channels in opposite sides of the member are joined together to provide a relatively high strength reinforced core. The ends of the members are completely closed during the blow molding process for increased strength and to keep out dirt and moisture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Assignee: Plastic Safety Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles M. Mettler, Gregory H. Brown
  • Patent number: 7537411
    Abstract: An end connector for a barrier device is provided which permits articulation of one barrier device through a relatively large angle with respect to an adjacent barrier device, so that a barrier wall may be formed of a plurality of barrier devices connected end-to-end having a significantly curved shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Inventors: Leo J. Yodock, Jr., Leo J. Yodock, III, Guy C. Yodock
  • Publication number: 20090129860
    Abstract: A vehicle crash cushion for decelerating a vehicle includes first, second and third bays. The first bay is positioned forwardly of the second bay and the second bay is positioned forwardly of the third bay. The first, second and third bays each have energy absorbing structures with first, second and third impact strengths respectively. The first impact strength is greater than the third impact strength, which is greater than the second impact strength.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2009
    Publication date: May 21, 2009
    Applicant: ENERGY ABSORPTION SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: JOHN F. LATURNER, MICHAEL H. OBERTH, DOUGLAS E. WILKINSON
  • Patent number: 7530548
    Abstract: Consistent and reliable releasing of a guardrail during a vehicle impact is enabled by a releasable fastener for safety structures along a highway. The release of secured components such as guardrail is controlled, and precise positional cooperation is provided between securing members and the guardrail. Forces may be attenuated to further optimize response.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Inventor: Carlos M. Ochoa