Traffic Steering Device Or Barrier Patents (Class 404/6)
  • Publication number: 20120207541
    Abstract: An end treatment array for crash attenuation includes a transition barrier module formed of side walls, end walls, a top wall, and a bottom wall, wherein the module walls together define an enclosed interior space. The end treatment array further includes a containment impact sled having an axially extending frame. The frame has a width sufficient to contain the transition barrier module within the frame when in an assembled configuration, and has an axial length which is at least one-half the length of the transition barrier module. The frame defines an interior volume, the purpose of which is to contain a substantial portion of the transition barrier module in the assembled configuration, and to contain debris caused by destruction of the plastic barrier modules in a vehicular impact. The containment impact sled is attached to the transition barrier module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2012
    Publication date: August 16, 2012
    Applicant: TRAFFIX DEVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Geoffrey B. Maus, Felipe Almanza, Jeremy W. Smith
  • Publication number: 20120207542
    Abstract: A mechanism for the absorption of the kinetic energy of a vehicle frontally impacting against a containment system, such as an impact attenuator or barrier terminal, by means of the longitudinal propagation of the plastic deformation of one or more longitudinal deformable metallic profiles produced by means of a rigid ram which is displaced along the deformable profile, intercepting part of its cross-section, joined to a structural element of the system which receives and transmits the impact of the vehicle being displaced along the containment system, the deformable profile being directly or indirectly fixed to the ground and therefore remaining static during the impact.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2010
    Publication date: August 16, 2012
    Applicant: Hierros Y Aplanaciones, S.A. (HIASA)
    Inventor: Antonio Amengual Pericas
  • Patent number: 8240947
    Abstract: A barrier for arresting a vehicle. The barrier includes a net spanning an area through which the vehicle may pass, an anchor coupled to the net, a support arm arranged on one side of the area through which the vehicle may pass, a raising/lowering mechanism for raising and lowering the support arm, and a release mechanism arranged on the support arm, the release mechanism having an upper and a lower protrusion forming an interior space to accommodate a member coupled to the net, and the member and the release mechanism become uncoupled upon application to the net of at least a predetermined threshold force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Smith & Wesson Security Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew A. Gelfand, Eddie N. Barnes, Ronald Lee Childers, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8235625
    Abstract: A water-ballasted barrier system incorporates a concave reflective design, wherein outer walls of the barrier segment are configured in a concave manner. The concave section is designed to prevent the tire of a vehicle, impacting the barrier, from climbing up the side of the barrier segment, by pocketing the tire in the curved center portion of the barrier wall. Adjacent barrier segments are attached together using an interlocking knuckle design, having a lug pin connection system. In some embodiments, wire rope cable is internally molded into each barrier segment to strengthen the barrier system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Traffix Devices, Inc.
    Inventors: Jack H. Kulp, Felipe Almanza
  • Publication number: 20120195683
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a a security bollard and, in particular, to a security bollard designed to be used as a protective measure to be placed in front of shop fronts and Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs) that may be subjected to ramming by vehicles. The bollard includes a first upright hollow member having an outer wall defining a chamber, and a plurality of vertical longitudinal jamming rods disposed inside the chamber. Each jamming rod has associated therewith a biasing means for biasing the members in a longitudinal direction so as to act like a disk brake on cutting implements attempting to cut through the jamming rods, and to also dose the gap created by the cut should the cutting implement be retrieved and cutting attempted again.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2012
    Publication date: August 2, 2012
    Inventor: Michael O'Connell
  • Patent number: 8231303
    Abstract: The present invention relates to road spikes that can made of long fiber reinforced thermoplastics that, when deployed, are geometrically positioned to puncture or disable a tire. The spikes can be formed of a long fiber reinforced thermoplastic containing 10-70% long fibers by weight. Spikes of this material can be made as direct and/or alternative replacements for existing metal spikes or as unique integrated devices. One integrated component is a device having several piercing elements that are deployed in a vertically divergent manner spaced about a vertical axis wherein at least one piercing element is directed towards the direction of the oncoming vehicle. In one embodiment deployable from a string, this is accomplished through the use of spikes with six piercing elements that are self-leveling and self-centering. In another embodiment, several clusters can be fixed to a tube that is foldable and extendable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: Plasticomp, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen T. Bowen, Larry E. Tiedemann, Eric Jay Wollan, Raj Narain Mathur
  • Patent number: 8231302
    Abstract: In a vehicle guideway having a vehicle track, a guidance system is provided comprising one or more guide curbs installed along a length of the guideway, and a low-friction coating or coatings presented by the curbs, a vehicle's tires, or both, the coating or coatings reducing friction and wear in the event of contact between the tires and the one or more guide curbs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Inventor: Homer T McCrary
  • Patent number: 8230628
    Abstract: A mounting arrangement for securing signs at select positions along the length of a concrete barrier is provided by forming a longitudinally extending groove within one side of the barrier and slideably positioning a bolt within the channel so that the bolt is captured within the channel for longitudinal movement relative thereto and extends through the groove and to the exterior of the barrier. The bolt extends through a sign support on the exterior of the barrier. A nut engaged with the bolt draws the sign support into secure engagement with the exterior surface of the barrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: Meadow Burke, LLC
    Inventors: Michael J. Recker, Raymond R. Sullivan, Bernard J. Roman
  • Patent number: 8226322
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Inventor: Joey W. Blair
  • Patent number: 8226321
    Abstract: A parking bumper shell that can be easily filled with a heavy form-filling material (such as concrete) to form a parking bumper is provided. The parking bumper shell may be injection molded from durable, brightly-colored, UV- and weather-resistant plastic. Undercuts, such as in the form of a plurality of undercut wings or z-puller pins, may be disposed on the interior of the parking bumper shell's top and side walls to aid in holding the parking bumper shell and the heavy filling material together. The parking bumper shell may also include internally projecting hollow extensions that are adapted to receive anchoring posts. While the parking bumper shell is being filled, it may be placed in a rigid frame which helps the shell to keep its shape during filling. The parking bumper shells are light-weight, nestable, and do not require internal steel rebar reinforcement, thereby greatly reducing transportation costs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: Tuf-Tite, Inc.
    Inventor: Theodore W. Meyers
  • Publication number: 20120177439
    Abstract: The present invention is a portable vehicle barrier, which is used to easily and effectively block vehicle access to restricted areas. The present invention comprises a front base, a rear base, spikes, and multiple folding arms. The folding arms are used to connect individual barriers to form a larger barrier so they can block small or large areas as needed. The spikes drive into the ground slowing oncoming vehicles and eventually stopping them as the barrier cantilevers intruding vehicles on the front base. For storage and transportation the folding arms can be folded to rest alongside the front base and rear base, while the rear base can be folded to rest atop the front base. A plurality of arm housings are located along the front and rear base, and are use to secure the folding arms in the deployed or storage states.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2012
    Publication date: July 12, 2012
    Inventors: Uzi MORE, Henry MORGENSTERN
  • Patent number: 8215866
    Abstract: A portable perimeter defense system is provided that is configured for preventing unwanted intrusions by vehicles or other heavy and fast-moving vehicles into a protected area while also providing requisite ballistic resistance capabilities. The defense system includes at least one individual modular barrier that can be readily transported to a point of use and can be secured in place without requiring heavy equipment or power sources, such as electricity. The modular barrier includes a front plate configured to provide ballistic protection in the direction of impact and to provide an impact surface capable of withstanding impact. The front plate extends upwardly from a base plate and a kick plate extends outwardly from the rear or aft side of the front plate. The front or fore edge of the base plate defines a vehicle engaging interface, the rear or aft edge of the base plate is arcuate and defines a ground engaging interface, and the rear or aft edge of the kick plate defines a ground engaging interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Inventor: Peter D. Whitford
  • Patent number: 8215865
    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: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: RSA Protective Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Richard S. Adler, John Crawford
  • Patent number: 8215864
    Abstract: An impact attenuator system includes a hyperelastic member that comprises an energy-absorbing material which behaves in a rate-independent hyperelastic manner so that its permanent set is minimized and the material can absorb tremendous amounts of impact energy while remaining fully recoverable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Battelle Memorial Institute
    Inventors: James C. Kennedy, Jr., Charles R. Miele, Chuck A. Plaxico, Joseph R. Preston, Jay R. Sayre, W. Scott Versluis, Carl J. Serman, Kary L. Valentine
  • Patent number: 8210767
    Abstract: An access delay vehicle barrier for stopping unauthorized entry into secure areas by a vehicle ramming attack includes access delay features for preventing and/or delaying an adversary from defeating or compromising the barrier. A horizontally deployed barrier member can include an exterior steel casing, an interior steel reinforcing member and access delay members disposed within the casing and between the casing and the interior reinforcing member. Access delay members can include wooden structural lumber, concrete and/or polymeric members that in combination with the exterior casing and interior reinforcing member act cooperatively to impair an adversarial attach by thermal, mechanical and/or explosive tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: Sandia Corporation
    Inventors: David J. Swahlan, Jason Wilke
  • Patent number: 8206056
    Abstract: A barrier system includes at least first and second reinforced concrete posts, each concrete post including at least one conduit formed therethrough having first and second ends and a strain relief sector formed therein at the first end of the conduit. At least one tension cable extends between the posts. The tension cable extends through the conduit of each post and has a cable end secured to the post at the second end of each post's conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: Patriot Barrier Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Michael Lester O'Banion, William Alan George
  • Patent number: 8202019
    Abstract: A vehicle arresting device comprises a net intended to be laid flat on the ground in the path of an oncoming vehicle to be arrested. Two rows of barbed spikes are attached to the net along its leading edge. When a vehicle runs over the device the spikes lodge in its front tires and the net is caused to wrap around the front wheels, eventually being pulled tight under the vehicle so that the tension in the net prevents further rotation of the wheels and the vehicle is brought to a stop. The net is manufactured such that in its deployed condition it has sufficient lateral stretch to allow it to become fully wrapped around the front wheels before the tension builds up to a level at which there might otherwise be a risk of the spikes being pulled from the tires.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignee: Qinetiq Limited
    Inventors: Christopher James Lyddon, Adrian Mark Woodhouse, Julian Glen Moody
  • Patent number: 8197156
    Abstract: A shallow mounted fixed vehicle barrier device for prohibiting vehicular access to a facility or area. The shallow mounted fixed vehicle barrier device includes a barrier system having a passive position and a support system adapted to maintain the barrier system in the passive position. In the passive position, the barrier system prevents vehicles from passing by or through to the protected facility or area. The shallow mounted fixed vehicle barrier device always remains in the passive position and, therefore, never allows vehicles access to the secured facility or area, after installation. The barrier system includes a bollard and, optionally, a bollard sleeve. The support system includes a base frame attached to the bollard, such that the base frame is adapted to secure the bollard during vehicular attack. The shallow mounted fixed vehicle barrier device can be installed in a foundation having a depth of less than twelve inches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Inventors: Mitch Morgan, Ilan Lindenboim
  • Publication number: 20120134745
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2010
    Publication date: May 31, 2012
    Inventor: Joey W. Blair
  • Patent number: 8186905
    Abstract: A non-lethal vehicle device provides for the selective, remotely-deployed controlled stop of a targeted vehicle regardless of wheel or undercarriage configuration. The device is comprised of a combination of a remote arm/safe mechanism, a remote deployment controller, spike/membrane deployment mechanism(s), a “speed bump” type housing that can protrude (be driven over until deployed) or be submerged, and one or more membranes with a plurality of spikes. A combination of sensors may provide independent deployment once armed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: Pacific Scientific Energetic Material Company (Arizona), LLC
    Inventors: Mynor J. Castro, Robert Arthur McCoy, William Grant Seeglitz, Edwin Allen Spomer
  • Publication number: 20120128416
    Abstract: The barrier is formed by a solid body of soft material (1, 1?) with, embedded within, a series of elastic elements (2, 2?, 4, 5) that can be embedded directly in the body (V) or embedded within elements (3, 3?) of a soft material like that of the body (1, 1?), forming a type of bollard inside said body (1, 1?). The internal elastic elements may be constituted by helical springs (2, 2?), bands (4) or rods (5) and, in any event, the body (1) is capable of being bent over, following the same bend as the internal elastic elements (2-3?, 4-3? and 5-3?).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2010
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Inventor: Jose Manuel Sanchez De La Cruz
  • Patent number: 8181392
    Abstract: An automatic gate arm damage prevention system includes a lift arm that is coupled to a lifting apparatus. The lift arm has an outer end, an upper side, a lower side, a first lateral side and a second lateral side. A channel extends into the outer end and the upper side so that the channel is bounded by the first and second lateral sides and the lower side. An elongated member has a first end and a second end. The first end is positioned in the channel. A pivot pin extends through the channel and through the elongated member and the lift arm to pivotally couple the elongated member to the lift arm. The second end is pivotable upwardly with respect to the lift arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Inventor: Raymond E. Farber
  • Patent number: 8182169
    Abstract: A non-lethal energy absorbing vehicle barrier for decelerating an impacting vehicle a gate member disposed between first and second gate receivers that is deformable from a pre-impact configuration to an impact configuration. The gate member may include a first deformable energy absorption member having a first end coupled to the first gate receiver and a second end extending inward toward a center of the gate member; a second deformable energy absorption member having a first end coupled to the second gate receiver and a second end extending inward toward the center of the gate member; and a deforming member connecting the first and second deformable energy absorption members in an overlapping configuration. The deforming member is configured to engage and deform the first and second deformable energy absorption members as the gate member is deformed from the pre-impact configuration to the impact configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Energy Absorption Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Sean Thompson, Samuel Ross Stanley, Jr., Patrick A. Leonhardt, Donald C. Pyde
  • Publication number: 20120121326
    Abstract: Certain exemplary embodiments can provide a system, machine, device, and/or manufacture comprising a traffic separating median barrier comprising: a barrier body having a substantially uniform cross section along a longitudinally extending direction, said barrier body defining a body length extending along said longitudinally extending direction, a body width orthogonal to said body length, and a body height orthogonal to said body length and said body width, said barrier body terminating in a first barrier end region and a second barrier end region, said first barrier end region comprising a female interlocking structure attached to said barrier body, said second barrier end region comprising a male interlocking structure attached to said barrier body, said female interlocking structure adapted to interlock with said male interlocking structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2009
    Publication date: May 17, 2012
    Applicant: CONMAT GROUP, INC.
    Inventors: Michael L. Budd, SR., Roy D. Simmons, JR.
  • Publication number: 20120121325
    Abstract: A crash cushion includes a plurality of resilient, self-restoring tubes each having a center axis and an interior surface. At least some of the tubes are positioned such that respective ones of the center axes are spaced apart in a longitudinal direction. The center axis of at least one tube is substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis extending in the longitudinal direction, with the tube defining a diametral plane intersecting and oriented substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The center axis of the tube lies in the diametral plane. One or more segments are positioned in the tube, with the segments, or portions thereof, disposed on opposite sides of the interior surface of the tube. Each of the segments or portions is symmetrically secured to the tube relative to the diametral plane, with the tube being substantially open between the opposing segments. Various methods of using and assembling the crash cushion are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2011
    Publication date: May 17, 2012
    Inventors: Michael J. BUEHLER, Aaron J. COX
  • Publication number: 20120121324
    Abstract: A full precast traffic barrier and installation method and mechanically stabilized earth wall structures that incorporates joint reduction, increased rebar concentration, increased rebar strength, increased moment slab width, and increased concrete strength to meet Test Level 4 (TL-4) impact loading requirements of the Federal Highway Administration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2011
    Publication date: May 17, 2012
    Inventor: Joseph E. Rodriguez
  • Patent number: 8172204
    Abstract: Road safety barrier (10) usable in correspondence with a roadway and consisting of modular elements (11), each of which comprises a skirt (20, 120) having a front surface (27) facing towards the roadway. Each modular element (11) comprises at least a metal upright (12) which lies on a substantially vertical plane and is anchored to the roadway. The skirt (20, 120) is attached on the metal upright (12) in order to arrange, during use, the front surface (27) facing towards the roadway; the metal upright (12) comprises two lateral flanks (13) which diverge towards the front surface (27), and are joined together in a rear zone (35), distant from the front surface (27).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: M.D.S. Handels-Und Montagen Gesellschaft m.b.H.
    Inventor: Luigi Serafin
  • Patent number: 8167512
    Abstract: A barrier assembly includes a barrier having an interior surface and an opposing exterior surface extending between a first end and an opposing second end. The interior surface bounds a chamber that is adapted to receive a ballast. The barrier also has an internal sidewall extending between top and bottom surfaces of the barrier so as to bound a passage extending completely through the barrier between the top and bottom surfaces. The barrier assembly also includes an elongated coupler extending down through the passage and projecting below the bottom surface of the barrier. A means for securing the coupler within the passage is formed on or attached to the coupler. The means for securing the coupler within the passage prevents the coupler from being removed from the passage while allowing the coupler to freely rotate within the passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Assignee: Off the Wall Products, LLC
    Inventor: Marc E. Christensen
  • Publication number: 20120093581
    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. 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 also minimizes the counterweight size. The barrier may be moved by an operator from either side of the vehicle travel path. Both fixed and unfixed end support structures may be utilized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2011
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Inventor: Michael John Lamore
  • Publication number: 20120090207
    Abstract: An advertising system for a bollard includes a bollard shield that can be installed over a conventional bollard. The bollard shield includes a shield inner diameter greater than the bollard outer diameter, forming a shield gap between the bollard and the bollard shield. One or more compressible foam pads are positioned in the shield gap between the bollard and the bollard shield. A resilient bollard sheath can be rolled onto the bollard shield. The bollard sheath includes advertising or graphical materials disposed thereon. The bollard sheath is generally replaceable without replacing the entire bollard shield. A removable sheath panel may be detachably secured on the bollard sheath to provide additional advertising or graphical material. The sheath panel may be interchangeably and replaced with additional sheath panels having different advertising information.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2011
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Inventor: Brandon Steele Johnston
  • Patent number: 8157471
    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: February 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: Trinity Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter Bergendahl, Don J. Gripne, Charles R. Norton, Elzard Sikkema
  • Patent number: 8152408
    Abstract: Barrier elements provide security from terrorist threats by ability to withstand both vehicle collisions and explosive blasts. Each barrier element is prefabricated to include a massive block of durable material, preferably of high strength concrete, with at least one tunnel extending at least partially between respective cavities in two opposite sides of the block. Each barrier element also includes at least one beam that is preferably made of steel and extends through one such tunnel. Multiple blocks are positionable slidably on top of the ground side-against-side with their beams coupled longitudinally to one another at least approximately end-to-end. Retainer means can be used to block coupling means from entry into the tunnels. Forces from a vehicle collision or an explosive blast can cause barrier elements to rotate relative to one-another when the couplings between beams hinge or bend as the durable material that interferes with the rotation breaks away.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Kontek Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Barclay J. Tullis, Roger Allen Nolte, Charles Merrill
  • Patent number: 8152406
    Abstract: A crash barrier system is provided that generally includes a hydraulic actuator driven piston operably connected to a hydraulic circuit and the crash barrier. In general, the hydraulic circuit includes a normal-UP and normal-DOWN section, an emergency-UP section, and an external pressure relief valve. In order to automatically provide corrective action in the event of an overpressure condition, the external pressure relief valve is connected to the hydraulic circuit. Upon occurrence of condition that causes the hydraulic fluid pressure to exceed a predetermined value, hydraulic fluid is released through the pressure relief valve to maintain the pressure at or below the predetermined value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventor: Bandar Ali Al-Qahtani
  • Patent number: 8152407
    Abstract: A crash barrier system is provided that generally includes a hydraulic actuator driven piston operably connected to a hydraulic circuit and the crash barrier. In general, the hydraulic circuit includes a normal-UP and normal-DOWN section, an emergency-UP section, and an overpressure relief sub-system. In order to automatically provide corrective action in the event of an overpressure condition, the overpressure relief sub-system includes an external pressure relief valve that is connected to the hydraulic circuit. Upon occurrence of condition that causes the hydraulic fluid pressure to exceed a predetermined value, hydraulic fluid is released through the pressure relief valve to maintain the pressure at or below the predetermined value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventor: Bandar Ali Al-Qahtani
  • Patent number: 8154396
    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: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Pursuit Management, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael P. Moormeier, Todd O'Halloran
  • Publication number: 20120082511
    Abstract: A reusable energy-absorbing crash attenuator comprises a base, a rail disposed on and extending along a length of the base, and a plurality of energy absorbing modules slidably disposed on the rail. Each of the energy absorbing modules comprises a first module portion and a second module portion which are attached together. Each of the module portions comprise plastic, preferably high density polyethylene (HDPE), and have a combination of concave and convex curvature. A plurality of fender panels are disposed in adjoining end-to-end fashion along each side of the length of the crash attenuator. The fender panels are arranged to slide together in telescoping fashion upon impact of the crash attenuator by a vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2011
    Publication date: April 5, 2012
    Applicant: TRAFFIX DEVICES, INC.
    Inventors: John D. McKenney, Jack H. Kulp
  • Patent number: 8147163
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for inhibiting the motion of a vehicle comprising a housing having a cavity, the cavity adapted to contain a net so that the net may be made available for release on command; tire engagement spikes supported by the housing, the spikes being movable to a first position to engage the tires of an oncoming vehicle, the spikes also being movable to a second position to avoid tire engagement, the spikes being positioned to grasp the net when in the first position; and an actuator for moving the spikes between the first and the second positions on command, wherein the spikes comprise at least two barbs adapted to penetrate a pneumatic tire, the spikes also having a hook for grasping a loop of the leading edge of the net.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Exponent, Inc.
    Inventors: Cleve Ivan Bare, Brian John Smyth, John David Pye
  • Patent number: 8132980
    Abstract: A system whereby a disabling spike strip is deployed from the rear undercarriage of a vehicle is enabled by a dashboard-mounted switch powered by the vehicle electrical system. The spike strip comprises a main body and two (2) extensions which are deployed outwardly from each side of the main body by the action of internal compression springs. The undersides of the main body and each extension are provided with a plurality of skid pads. The spike strip further comprises front and rear stabilizer bars. The purpose of the pads and the stabilizers are to retain the location of the spike strip against the pavement and against the action of a trailing vehicle's wheels. The top portion of the spike strip comprises a plurality of fixed and spring-loaded spikes being designed to shred the tires of the trailing vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2012
    Inventor: Justin D. Lee
  • Publication number: 20120057930
    Abstract: A collapsible material system for slowing a vehicle. The system including: a predetermined thickness of collapsible material disposed over a base; a covering disposed over a top surface of the collapsible material over which the vehicle travels; and a transition portion that further includes: a predetermined thickness of collapsible transition material disposed over a base; and a transition covering disposed over a top surface of the collapsible material over which the vehicle travels. Where one of the collapsible transition material and the transition covering have a different characteristic from the collapsible material and the covering, respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2011
    Publication date: March 8, 2012
    Inventors: Jahangir S. Rastegar, Thomas Spinelli
  • Publication number: 20120057931
    Abstract: Arresting beds for decelerating vehicles, especially passenger air-crafts unable to stop on available run-way, including a vehicle arresting system. The vehicle arresting system also includes a bed filled with foamed glass aggregate with particle sizes ranging from 0.25 cm to 15 cm and nominal void fractions from about 70 to 98%, and a top cover covering the upper surface of the bed of foamed glass aggregate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2011
    Publication date: March 8, 2012
    Applicant: NORSK GLASSGJENVINNING AS
    Inventor: Jon A. Narmo
  • Patent number: 8128310
    Abstract: A vehicle restraint system is provided, comprised of an easily installable and transportable base having a deployable vehicle retention means contained therein. In particular, a rigid base over which vehicles may drive is provided, having a deployable vehicle retention means, such as a net or flexible panel, disposed in the base. In addition, lockable rollers, deployable plates and tire puncturing devices are disposed in the base, to prevent or resist movement of the vehicle relative to the base. The base is merely laid upon a surface, and requires no mounting thereto. Upon impact with a vehicle, the vehicle is retained on the base, and the forward motion/inertia of the vehicle is depleted via frictional engagement (sliding) of the base over the mounting surface, wherein the base and vehicle come to a controlled stop within a short distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: Unified Designs, Inc.
    Inventors: Frank J. Dindl, Kenneth R. Jones, Christopher J. Strianse
  • Publication number: 20120051837
    Abstract: A barricade is provided for crowd control. The barricade includes a first frame support member having an upper end, a lower end, an upper opening adapted for receiving an end of a first upper beam therein and a lower opening. A second frame support member is positioned at an acute angle to the first support frame member and has an upper end, a lower end adjacent the lower end of the first frame support member, an upper opening adapted for receiving an end of a second upper beam therein and a lower opening. A lower beam has a first end receivable in the lower opening of the first frame support member and a second end receivable in the lower opening of the second frame support member to interconnect the first and second frame support members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventors: Bruce A. Thompson, Mark A. Hanson
  • Publication number: 20120044046
    Abstract: A remotely controlled parking space barrier for preventing access to a reserved parking space by unauthorized vehicles includes a barrier assembly. The assembly includes an anchoring member and a rotatable barrier member that is rotatable between a relatively flat position that can be driven over and a vertical or blocking position for preventing vehicular access to the space. The remotely controlled parking space also includes a plurality of studs for anchoring the anchoring member within the parking space. The mechanism also includes an electric motor for rotating the barrier member between a generally flat and a generally vertical position. A lighting system includes a plurality of lights, an alarm and a first sensor for sensing an unauthorized vehicle within a predetermined distance from the entrance to the parking space and actuates flashing lights and sounds an audible alarm when an unauthorized vehicle approaches the entrance to the parking space or parks in front of the parking space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2010
    Publication date: February 23, 2012
    Inventor: Ahmed I.S.I. Al-Jafar
  • Patent number: 8118516
    Abstract: An energy absorbing system having a stanchion, a linearly extendable energy absorber coupled to the stanchion, a net coupled to the energy absorber, wherein the net transfers force to the energy absorber, and a securing mechanism that maintains tension between the net and the energy absorber until acted upon by tensile forces of at least a minimum threshold force, wherein at least a portion of the system is retractable into the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: Smith & Wesson Security Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew A. Gelfand, Joseph Vellozzi, John S. Paner, Norman D. Mackenzie, Shubin Ruan, D. Lance Bullard, Jr., Dean C. Alberson
  • Patent number: 8096727
    Abstract: A temporary barricade in the form of a retractable post system. In one configuration, the post is lowered into the ground, such that the top of the post is flush with the ground surface, leaving an unobtrusive configuration that one can walk over, drive over, and so forth. In another configuration, however, the post can be pulled up from the ground, and with a moderate rotational twisting motion, locked into vertical position, thereby providing a strong barrier to traffic and other situations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Inventors: Chris Parenti, Abel Gutierrez
  • Publication number: 20120003039
    Abstract: The present invention provides a roadway barrier or guard rail system which has a post (12) which passes through the carriage (20) with the carriage (20) being free to move up along the post (12). The carriage (20) is prevented from moving down the post (12) by means of a stop or restraint (12.60,12.50,12.40,12.30) which is separate from and underneath the carriage (20) and which the carriage (20) abuts, with the stop or restraint (12.60,12.50,12.40,12.30) being located on the post (12). The carriage (20) is not otherwise restrained from moving up the post except by the curved channels through the carriage (20) which engage the extremities of the post, and the friction this may produce.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2010
    Publication date: January 5, 2012
    Applicant: Industrial Galvanizers Corporation Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Hayden Wallace, Terry Colquhoun, Henry John Hare, Mark Whiteside
  • Patent number: 8087846
    Abstract: This application concerns traffic control devices, such as bollards, configured for storage of a bollard coupling adapted to extend between a bollard and an adjacent structure. Bollards are disclosed that comprise a body defining an interior body volume and a first aperture. A bracket fixedly attached to the body defines a second aperture. The bracket is configured to reversibly receive a bollard engaging member fixedly attached to an end portion of a bollard coupling. In a first position, at least a portion of the bollard engaging member extends through the first aperture, and in a second position, the portion of the bollard engaging member extends through the second aperture. A cap being releasably secured to the body provides access to the interior body volume and at least partially retains the bollard engaging member. Associated bollard arrangements and methods are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Inventor: James Ringelberg
  • Patent number: 8087847
    Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus used to launch a tire deflation device into the path of a fleeing vehicle. The present invention makes use of a guide frame to support and guide the tire deflation device towards the intended destination. The energy storing mechanism stores the energy required to launch the tire deflation device. The push train delivers the energy to the tire deflation device. The launching of the tire deflation device is triggered by a wireless remote system, otherwise known as the wireless trigger mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Inventor: Robert L. Scott
  • Publication number: 20110318100
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are various embodiments of systems related to modular earth retaining wall systems. In one embodiment, among others, a precast retaining wall block configured for assembly into a retaining wall includes a front face portion, a web portion extending outwardly from a rear surface of the front face portion, and aligning elements. The web portion includes a vertical center portion and left and right protrusions extending outwardly from the lower sides of the vertical center portion. The left and right protrusions may be substantially triangular. The aligning elements extend downwardly from a bottom surface of the left and right protrusions for locking the precast retaining wall block to the vertical center portion associated with an underlying precast retaining wall block associated with an underlying row.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2011
    Publication date: December 29, 2011
    Applicant: Earth Reinforcement Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Thomas L. Rainey
  • Patent number: 8083433
    Abstract: An example of a vehicle barrier system for arresting an impacting vehicle of substantial mass within a selected distance of the fence includes a pair of terminal posts positioned in and secured to the ground in a spaced apart relationship; at least three cables, each cable having opposing terminal ends hingedly connected respectively to each of the terminal posts, the at least three cables held in tension a distance above a grade of the ground and vertically spaced apart from one another in relation to the grade; and a line post secured in the ground and positioned between the pair of terminal posts, the line post holding a portion of each of the cables.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignee: Neusch Innovations, LP
    Inventor: William H. Neusch