Abstract: A method for shaking vehicles comprises driving them over a series of appropriately spaced-apart, mutually parallel bars to vigorously shake the wheels, undercarriage, and body to free them of dirt, gravel and debris. An apparatus may have bars with the appropriate spacing. A track may include a frame and the spaced-apart bars may form part of the frame. The track may be large enough to accommodate all the wheels of a vehicle at once. Alternatively, smaller tracks may be flexibly connected end-to-end to form a shaker that will receive right and left hand wheels of the vehicle on respective rows. The shaker may be deployed onto a bed of aggregate that is sufficiently coarse to allow the fallen dirt to sift or be washed through the bed of aggregate. The aggregate may also assist in holding the shaker in place and may provide ramps at the ends of the shaker.

Abstract: A water-ballasted molded plastic barrier system incorporates barrier segments wherein each segment employs a sawtooth reflective design, designed to prevent the tire of a vehicle, impacting the barrier, from climbing up the side of the barrier segment. Adjacent barrier segments are attached together using an interlocking knuckle design, having a lug pin connection system. Wire rope cable assemblies are internally molded into each barrier segment to create an impenetrable cable fence. The wire rope cable assemblies include steel bushings which are molded into the interlocking knuckles to further strengthen the barrier system.

Abstract: Methods for determining need for treating a vehicle travel surface include sensing, at a first time, a characteristic of a vehicle travel surface from a mobile sensor. Sensed characteristics include temperature, friction coefficient, material volumetric buildup, e.g., composition, such as an amount or percentage of ice or snow, density, depth, freeze point and chemical concentrations. The sensed characteristic is recorded as a first measurement in a database, and GIS information correlating a location with the first measurement is attached. The characteristic of the vehicle travel surface is sensed at a second time, at the location, and recorded in the database, for example as a second measurement. GIS information correlating the location with the second measurement may be attached, and the first and second measurements compared.

Abstract: In combination with a placers/spreader having a frame including at least two side bolsters standing parallel to the subgrade path and at least two cross beams spanning the subgrade path forming a conveyor supporting structure. A rail system is attached spanning the frame, and has a roll in/roll out conveyor with a cantilevered support at one of the side bolsters and a support for attachment to and support from the rail system. The conveyor moves in traversing motion across the frame to distribute concrete. The improvement comprises a strike off beam and spreader plow assembly for trailing attachment to the frame of a placer/spreader. We thus disclose a strike off beam with spreader plow assembly which can be removably attached to either side of a placer/spreader to avoid the necessity of relocating the receiving conveyor when the location of the access road changes from one side to the other or direction of spreading changes.

Abstract: A concrete lid for an in-ground utilities box includes a plastic reinforcement structure filled with concrete. The plastic reinforcement structure includes one or more plastic sidewalls that protect the edges of the lid from damage. The upper and lower surfaces of the lid are exposed concrete (with the exception of the upper and lower edges of the one or more plastic sidewalls). The one or more plastic sidewalls laterally surround a plastic reinforcement grid, which is centrally located between the upper and lower edges of the one or more plastic sidewalls. The one or more plastic sidewalls can be integrally formed with the plastic reinforcement grid. The plastic reinforcement grid reinforces the concrete lid, eliminating the need for separate reinforcement material. Support struts can be used to support the plastic reinforcement grid while wet concrete is being poured into the plastic reinforcing structure.

Abstract: A detectable warning system, for tactilely signaling the presence of a terrain transition to a pedestrian, using a plurality of detectable warning domes that are arranged in a grid within a warning dome tiles. The warning dome tiles comprises heat resistant detectable warning domes and connecting surface. A base layer sheet of thermoplastic is applied and adhered to the pavement surface prior to the application of the detectable warning tiles. A top layer of thermoplastic is applied and adhered to, and conformed to the warning domes. The detectable warning domes protrude from the pavement surface in an evenly spaced pattern that is detectable by the pedestrian using a cane or other guidance instrument.

Abstract: Provided is an aquifer replenishing pavement formed above soil having a sand lens above the aquifer and a clay layer above the sand lens. The pavement includes an aggregate leach field having an aggregate top surface, and an aggregate bottom surface abutting the clay layer. The pavement further includes a pavement layer having an exposed pavement top surface, and a pavement bottom surface abutting the aggregate leach field. A surface drain extends through the pavement layer to drain fluid from the exposed pavement top surface to the aggregate leach field. An aggregate drain extends from the aggregate leach field into the sand lens through the clay layer to drain fluid from the aggregate leach field into the aquifer. A filter is disposed within one of the surface drain and the aggregate drain. The filter is configured to remove foreign particulates from fluid passing therethrough.

Abstract: A transportation system for rider propelled vehicles, zero-emission vehicles, and pedestrians is disclosed. The system includes pathways (517, 317, 717, 519, 119, 319, 719, 919, 523, 123, 323, 723, 923, 525, 325, 725) that are integrated into a building structure (101) or a series of building structures (100, 300, 500, 700, 900) connected by bridges (34, 35, 36, 37, 30, 31, 32, 33) which have an overall downward sloping grade. Elevators (515, 520, 522, 527, 115, 120, 122, 127, 315, 320, 322, 327, 715, 720, 722, 727, 915, 920, 922, 927) are utilized to transport riders, vehicles, and pedestrians to the integrated pathway.

Abstract: A flexible marker device comprises a marker body having a bottom end and a top end, and a base for supporting the marker body. The base has an aperture in a center portion thereof and a groove extending about the aperture in an upper surface of the base. The bottom end of the marker body is at least partially disposed within the groove. A cured material, preferably polyurethane, is disposed in the groove to thereby secure the marker body to the base.

Abstract: In combination with a placers/spreader having a frame including at least two side bolsters standing parallel to the subgrade path and at least two cross beams spanning the subgrade path forming a conveyor supporting structure. A rail system is attached spanning the frame, and has a roll in/roll out conveyor with a cantilevered support at one of the side bolsters and a support for attachment to and support from the rail system. The conveyor moves in traversing motion across the frame to distribute concrete. The improvement comprises a strike off beam and spreader plow assembly for trailing attachment to the frame of a placer/spreader. We thus disclose a strike off beam with spreader plow assembly which can be removably attached to either side of a placer/spreader to avoid the necessity of relocating the receiving conveyor when the location of the access road changes from one side to the other or direction of spreading changes.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a system and method for a seamless curb system suitable for a sanitary environment while providing an energy absorbing structure. The multicellular structure has a substantially uniform cross section. The structure is formed of hi-density, energy absorbing, expanding polypropylene foam, similar to bumper systems used in cars and trucks. An outer shell is disposed over at least a front portion of the structure. The outer shell may be stainless steel or a polyurea/polyaspartic reinforced coating, as examples. The elements are sealed to each other in an end to end relationship adjacent to a wall to form an energy absorbing protective barrier to the wall. At least one anchor is disposed in a slot in the floor of the manufacturing facility to provide support.

Abstract: A method for controllably releasing venting gases from a manhole space around the perimeter of a manhole cover by allowing the manhole cover to rise up in stages upon development of upward forces in an explosion to vent gases developed by the explosion while being restrained from being completely blown free except under extreme conditions. A lock body mounts a latch slide which has an outer end and which can be extended to prevent removal of the manhole cover. When a shear pin fails the lock body pivots down, to a limited extent, and a secondary shear pin can also be included allowing the cover to be blown completely free upon development of pressures of a great magnitude. A slotted skirt is used to direct venting gas flow so as to retard the inflow of free air and attenuate the explosion.

Abstract: An extension plate for use in a compactor includes an elongate body extending between a first surface configured to be coupled to the compactor frame and a second surface configured to be coupled to a support of the compactor. The first surface includes a first opening aligning with an opening into an interior of the compactor. A second opening in at least one of the elongate body or the second surface communicates with the first opening to allow passage of a hose through the extension plate and through the opening in the frame into the interior space.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are a method of applying an asphalt waterproofing membrane material for buildings and bridge decks using sawdust. More specifically, disclosed is a method for applying a waterproofing membrane composition having excellent waterproofing ability using sawdust, such that the composition is not broken down by external force and can function as a waterproofing material.

Abstract: A concrete structure for replenishing an aquifer and a method for constructing the same is provided. The structure is comprised of a pavement layer with surface drains that extend through the pavement layer and into an aggregate leach field. The leach field includes leach lines spanning the leach field. An aggregate drain extends from the leach field into a sand lens. Precipitation which falls upon the structure thus flows through the surface drain, absorbed into the aggregate leach field, and transported to the aggregate drains by way of aggregate leach lines. The water is then absorbed into the sand lens, ultimately replenishing the aquifer. Existing conventional pavement structures are retrofitted by the removal of a section of the pavement, and filling the same with porous concrete.

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 means 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: In one aspect of the invention a method includes the steps of providing a channel attached to a vehicle adapted to transverse an area, the channel being in communication with at least one supply of pavement rejuvenation material, and the area having a layer of pavement aggregate; positioning the channel so that at least a portion of the channel is disposed within the layer; and adding the pavement rejuvenation material into the layer from an opening in the channel positioned below the surface of the layer.

Abstract: A manhole cover includes a security device, preferably located beneath an upper surface thereof. A cover removing apparatus includes a magnetic element to hold the cover, when a pin of the apparatus is engaged with the security device of the cover. A push force, which may be applied through a port in the upper surface of the cover, for example, by the pin member, can deform, and thereby unlock, a spring-loaded locking member of the security device. The security device may further include at least one elongate member, which is caused to move from a first position to a second position, by the push force, in order to disengage the cover from a manhole, so that the cover may be removed from the manhole.

Abstract: A flexible heating mat is provided. The mat comprises a plurality of sections, connected to each other by arch ribs. The arch ribs form a flexible, preferably raised, ceiling and a closed space above the precipitation-covered surface. Each section comprises a tube, capable of conducting a melting substance therethrough and dissipating it through at least one jet for melting of ice and/or drying of moisture. In other embodiments, the mat comprises at least one snow-mashing member. The mat may further comprise a pump for pumping out the melt and/or recycling the melting medium. Other embodiments are provided, and each of the embodiments described herein can be used alone or in combination with one another. The method of using the mat is also described and claimed.

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.

Abstract: The repair of pavement is performed by placing rigid waterproof asphalt fiber panels over the existing pavement before placing the asphalt concrete overlay on the pavement. The panels are cemented in place with liquid asphalt to the existing worn pavement and to the new asphalt concrete overlay; also the asphalt panels are similarly used in the construction of new pavement wherein the panels are placed between the two layers of the new asphalt concrete or between the asphalt concrete and the rock leveling course.

Abstract: A road patching vehicle for patching damaged areas or potholes of various sizes and shapes on a roadway includes a boom assembly pivotally mounted at or on the forward end of the vehicle with a nozzle mounted at or toward the forward end of the boom. Various hoses connect the nozzle to a source of pressurized air, a source of patching emulsion (such as an asphalt emulsion), and a source of a rock aggregate with the vehicle operator controlling the flows individually or in various combinations thereof to prepare and then fill the pothole or other road defect to effect a patch. The nozzle is mounted on a pivot or journal to allow controlled pivoting or tilting of the nozzle under control of the operator in at least one degree of freedom. In a variant of the preferred form, the nozzle is mounted for control pivoting or tilting under the control of the operator in at least two degrees of freedom.

Abstract: A method of surface seeded fine aggregate to produce simulated quarried stone. The method comprises preparing a subgrade, pouring a concrete mixture over the subgrate, and broadcasting one of fine sand and aggregate over 5% to 60% of an exposed surface of the concrete mixture. Alternatively, both the fine sand and the aggregate can be broadcast over 5% to 60% of the exposed surface of the concrete mixture to obtain a desired aesthetic effect as provided by the quarried stone.

Abstract: A tack emulsion pre-coating system for use in hot mix asphalt plant paving which comprises providing a triangular-shaped tack emulsion cart deployed ahead of a paver, and configured to operate under a conveyor from a transfer vehicle supplying the paver with HMA, where the cart comprises a forward spray bar which sprays tack emulsion on a surface located between the wheels of the paver so as not to leave tracks and with rear spray bars for spraying tack emulsion behind the wheels, but not behind a central area between the wheels of the paver.

Abstract: The present invention relates to method for the preparation of a dry material for use as an ultra high strength pavement as well as the dry granular pavement material manu-factured by the method, and furthermore the present invention also relates to a method for applying the ultra high strength pavement monolithic or to a subgrade.

Abstract: A portable walkway system comprising a plurality of frames composed of upright assemblies attached to post base assemblies and connected by upper and lower runners. Roof panels are connected across the upper runners and floor panels are connected across the lower runners to create a covered walkway system. The frames can be anchored to the ground to secure the walkway and the various components of the walkway can be assembled and secured with bolts or screws. The walkway can be assembled easily and quickly and is particularly useful with temporary or modular buildings, since it can be easily and fully disassembled and moved to a new location as the buildings are moved or replaced.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to a cover for a manhole or similar structure that encapsulates a traditional cover so as to extend the height of the cover. Generally, a conventional manhole cover is partially or entirely encapsulated in polyurethane to change its outside dimensions to match the environment of an intended location.

Abstract: A concrete structure for replenishing an aquifer and a method for constructing the same is provided. The structure is comprised of a pavement layer with surface drains that extend through the pavement layer and into an aggregate leach field. The leach field includes leach lines spanning the leach field. An aggregate drain extends from the leach field into a sand lens. Precipitation which falls upon the structure thus flows through the surface drain, absorbed into the aggregate leach field, and transported to the aggregate drains by way of aggregate leach lines. The water is then absorbed into the sand lens, ultimately replenishing the aquifer. Existing conventional pavement structures are retrofitted by the removal of a section of the pavement, and filling the same with porous concrete.

Abstract: An easily collapsible guardrail to separate opposing streams of traffic that includes specialized buffer blocks having chambers with two hollow interiors and with the interiors having a particular shape that promotes the movement of energy in a collapsing motion that allows the colliding vehicles to remain closer to the point of impact, minimizing any bouncing back into the moving stream of traffic. The specialized blocks are mounted to a post at two positions using staggered positioning of bolts, thereby removing the prior art single bolt that has been the cause of a lot of property damage and personal injury upon collision. The unique, staggered positioning of the bolts allows for directional movement of the vehicle away from the flow of traffic. Optionally, a specialized post can also be used that also minimizes the effects of a crash. The post is made of a rubber material that acts as a shock absorber and/or insulator.

Abstract: A road plate securing assembly for a roadway surface includes an assembly frame comprising a plurality of assembly frame members adapted for attachment to the roadway surface and each comprising a first surface, a second surface disposed at an acute angle with respect to the first surface, a uni-planar inner surface extending from the first surface to the second surface and a plate opening defined by the assembly frame members. A road plate can be fitted in the plate opening to cover a repair or construction area on the roadway. A road plate securing method is also disclosed.

Abstract: A pavement recycling machine is disclosed in one aspect of the invention as including a motorized vehicle to travel along a paved surface and having a direction of travel. A bank of substantially vertically oriented mill heads is connected to the motorized vehicle to break up the paved surface to create loose aggregate. These mill heads have axes of rotation that are substantially perpendicular to the paved surface. A controller is provided to control various operational parameters of the pavement recycling machine. These operational parameters may include, for example, the rotational speed and vertical height of the mill heads. A remote control device communicates with the controller to enable remote adjustment or monitoring of the operational parameters.

Abstract: A method for haul road design based on greenhouse gas emissions comprises receiving a first set of performance data associated with a plurality of machines and establishing a greenhouse gas emission limit for the plurality of machines based on the first set of performance data. A target greenhouse gas emission level for each of the plurality of machines is determined based on the greenhouse gas emission limit, and total effective grade is determined based on the target greenhouse gas emission level for the respective machine. The method also includes generating a haul road design based on the total effective grade.

Abstract: A method for controllably releasing venting gases from a manhole space around the perimeter of a manhole cover by allowing the manhole cover to rise up in stages upon development of upward forces in an explosion to vent gases developed by the explosion while being restrained from being completely blown free except under extreme conditions. A lock body mounts a latch slide which has an outer end and which can be extended to prevent removal of the manhole cover. When a shear pin fails the lock body pivots down, to a limited extent, and a secondary shear pin can also be included allowing the cover to be blown completely free upon development of pressures of a great magnitude. A slotted skirt is used to direct venting gas flow so as to retard the inflow of free air and attenuate the explosion.

Abstract: Method of recycling a crushed asphalt concrete comprising a friable mixture of asphalt and aggregate particles produced by breaking down a recycled asphalt/aggregate concrete by milling or crushing or the like. The aggregate particles include a substantial portion of the surfaces thereof which are substantially free of adhered asphalt material. The crushed asphalt concrete is mixed with a minor amount of hydraulic cement and water to produce a plastic mixture of the crushed asphalt concrete and hydraulic cement. The plastic mixture is transported to a utilization site such as a building site, road or parking lot and spread on a substrate surface to provide a layer of asphalt concrete pavement. The layer of asphalt concrete pavement has a 7-day compressive strength, typically no more than 1,000 psi, e.g., 150-800 psi. The cement is present in an amount within the range of 1-14 wt. %, more specifically, within the range of 2-10 wt. % of the crushed asphalt concrete and any added aggregate.

Abstract: A mat system includes a surface and at least first and second mat units. Each mat unit includes a respective plurality of blocks interlinked by respective cables that pass through the blocks. Each mat unit includes cable loops along at least one side section thereof. The first and second mat units are positioned on the surface in proximity to each other with cable loops of the first mat unit extending toward the second mat unit and cable loops of the second mat unit extending toward the first mat unit. A plurality of interconnecting blocks are positioned between the first mat unit and the second mat unit. Each interconnecting block includes an underside with downwardly open channels formed therein. The cable loops of the first and second mat units are positioned within the channels of the interconnecting blocks to cover the cable loops.

Abstract: A system and method for electrical power generation utilizing vehicle traffic on roadways is disclosed. According to one embodiment, a power generation system comprises one or more standard hydraulic cylinders, one or more electro-mechanical generators, and one or more hydraulic accumulators coupled to a hydraulic motor.

Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for a barrier gate designed to control vehicular travel through a passageway. The invention disclosed employs a barrier arm, a housing, a motor and transmission, a rotary encoder, and a torque limiter assembly. The torque limiter assembly comprises a hub, spindle, brake disk, rotor, and a gland nut. The torque limiter assembly is mounted to the motor and transmission as well as connected to the barrier arm. The torque limiter assembly provides sufficient friction to rotate the barrier arm and also protects the internal gears and linkages of the transmission and motor from costly repair/replacement by preventing any unwanted rotation. In the event an outside force rotates the barrier arm, the rotary encoder in cooperation with a controller instantly recognizes the position of the barrier arm and further acts as a limit switch to send a signal to the motor to stop when the barrier arm is in place.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of fabricating road surfaces in cold climates for ice roads. In one embodiment the road surface includes: a combination of water and sawdust that is placed on the road surface and frozen.

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: A method and composition of matter used to reduce icing of roads, bridges, and overpasses where the wearing course of the paved structure contains expanded plastic polymer. The expanded plastic polymer functions as insulation and reduces the likelihood that the wearing course of the structure will freeze over, thereby lessening the danger drivers face during colder months.

Abstract: An apparatus, method, and system are disclosed, which provide a means of real time surface profile evaluation in wet cement. The sliding profiler can be pulled behind various stages in a paving train. The user is alerted to profile discrepancies while the cement is still pliable and afforded the opportunity to make adjustments to the paving process, to include additional finishing. The system is made of affordable components and thus is appropriate for construction projects of different scale. In addition, multiple sliding profilers can measure the profile of multiple wheel paths simultaneously. The system can measure profile changes of less than 150 mils. Use of the system described herein will contribute to better roadways at lower costs.

Abstract: A composite material comprises: an open grid comprising at least two sets of strands. Each set of strands has openings between adjacent strands. The sets are oriented at a substantial angle to one another. A tack film is laminated to the open grid. The tack film has first and second major surfaces, such that a material of the tack film at its first and second major surfaces is a material including about 50% or more of resinous non-asphaltic component and about 50% or less of asphaltic component.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for consolidating roadways, wherein at least one plastic is applied to the surface and/or in the interior of the roadway.

Abstract: This invention is a novel system for resisting barrier breach resulting from kinetic energy (i.e. ramming impacts). It consists of lightweight, sectional or continuous barriers made of a breach resistant fiber reinforced polymer resin matrix composite, which may be fabricated on site. The barriers are lightweight and thin enough that they may be used in many spaces where barriers made from conventional construction materials are impossible, impractical, or undesirable.

Abstract: Actual conditions of a roadway segment are estimated by providing roadway condition data to a processor for the roadway segment from a plurality of different types of sources of the roadway condition data, assigning a quality to each of the plurality of different types of sources of the roadway condition data, and estimating in the processor the actual conditions of the roadway segment by using the roadway condition data and the quality of each of the plurality of different types of sources of the roadway data. The quality determines weightings given to each of the plurality of different types of sources.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device and method for sealing a manhole structure. A band with a relatively rigid angled corner engages the upper margin of a manhole structure. Adhesives may also be used with the band to enhance the seal with the manhole structure.

Abstract: A method for bonding together an existing substrate layer and a pavement layer, such that a strong adhesive bond is formed by using a tack coat, provided by an asphalt emulsion, in between the layers as the bond coat. The tack coat layer is a low-tracking coating which cures quickly such that the pavement layer may be applied to the substrate, hours to days after the emulsion is applied to the substrate. The asphalt emulsion comprises at least a first phase of from about 30% to about 70% of an asphalt composition, about 30% to about 70% water, and about 0.1% to about 3.0% emulsifying agent, stabilizer and/or additives, or 0.1% to about 30% if polymeric or other additives are also included.

Abstract: A water-pervious pavement structure comprising wearing course comprising a water-pervious combination of recycled glass and aggregate bound together with a flexible adhesive binder and held within a plurality of connected, open grid pockets; and a layer of unbound recycled glass disposed under the wearing course capable of adsorbing contacting hydrocarbons carried with water through the wearing course. In a preferred embodiment, the wearing course comprises about 30 wt. % to about 80 wt. % recycled glass and about 20 wt. % to about 70 wt. % aggregate bound together by a cured resin binder within the grid pockets.

Abstract: Provided herein are a concrete dowel placement device and methods of use. The device 100 generally comprises a dowel receiving sleeve 110, a flange 120 formed to extend perpendicularly and completely about an open end b of the dowel receiving sleeve and at least one tooth-like locking structure 140a,b integrally formed on the outer surface 111 of the sleeve and proximate to the flange. The combination of the flange and the tooth-like locking structure secures the deviced to a concrete form so that a dowel rod 150 or piece of rebar placed therein maintains its position during a concrete pour.

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.