Handling Or Treating Preformed Modular Unit Patents (Class 404/73)
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Publication number: 20110170950Abstract: This invention relates to a monolithic foundation (1) system with homopolymer/resist ant aggregate pavement with a semi-continuous configuration, which uses a pavement with load transfer elements (5) for the induction of joints. It is essentially characterized in that it comprises a foundation (1) having high-density expanded polystyrene blocks, which supports a semi -continuous cement concrete pavement, the pavement formwork being formed by the polystyrene blocks of the foundation. Each one of the load transfer plates (5) is comprised of two anchors (6) with two rebars (7) for alignment of a joint inductor (8), and a ball joint (9) which, at the load support moment, rotates anticlockwise and, at the support moment generated by the load transfer plates, performs a clockwise movement.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 3, 2009Publication date: July 14, 2011Inventor: Manuel Filipe Ramos Lopes Leonardo
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Publication number: 20110142539Abstract: There is provided a temporary restoration member (lining mats (1), nonslip pins (2), lock pins (3), stoppers (4), fixing pins (5)) for simplifying the construction work for temporarily restoring a road surface when a paved road surface (B) is excavated to lay piping, and a method for restoring the road surface using the member. Each of the lining mats (1) is a rectangular rubber plate provided with a thick central part (11), two thin side parts (12), and pinholes (16) at appropriate locations that pass through the mats from the front surface to the reverse surface. The lining mats are laid out to cover a backfilled surface so that the side edges of the mats are disposed on the paved road surface (B). Cylindrical nonslip pins (2) are driven into the pinholes, and lock pins (3) are driven into the cylindrical part of the nonslip pins to fix the lining mats. Latching protrusions (42) of stoppers (4) are inserted into the pinholes to connect adjoining mats.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 22, 2009Publication date: June 16, 2011Applicant: MEIWA KOGYO CO., LTD.Inventor: Shigeaki Sekine
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Patent number: 7960042Abstract: Paving blocks for photocatalytic paving comprising at least a base layer in cementitious material and a surface layer based on a cementitious composition comprising: at least a hydraulic binder, a photocatalyst capable of oxidizing organic and inorganic polluting substances present in the environment in the presence of environmental light, air and humidity, at least an aggregate, water and, optionally, a water reducing additive.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 2004Date of Patent: June 14, 2011Assignee: Italcementi S.p.A.Inventors: Luigi Cassar, Roberto Cucitore, Carmine Pepe
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Publication number: 20110110717Abstract: A structure for supporting vehicular traffic is supported by the ground and includes a panel and first and second longitudinally-extending foundations. The panel has a top surface on which vehicular traffic is supported, a bottom surface opposite the top surface, first and second lateral sides, a leading side and a trailing side. The leading and trailing sides space the first and second longitudinal sides from each other. The first and second longitudinally-extending foundations cooperate to support the panel such that a space is defined between the road surface panel and a surface of the ground.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 5, 2010Publication date: May 12, 2011Applicant: NOWAK & EISENHARDT LLCInventor: Robert Eisenhardt
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Publication number: 20110052318Abstract: A method for installing a paver system includes positioning a first grid substrate adjacent to a second grid substrate. The first grid substrate and the second grid substrate are flexibly bridged with a first paver piece. A first portion of the first paver piece is movably coupled with the first grid substrate at a first joint, and a second portion of the first paver piece is movably coupled with the second grid substrate at a second joint, the first and second grid substrates and the first paver piece forming an articulated paver linkage. A second paver piece is coupled with the second grid substrate. A third paver piece is coupled with the first grid substrate. The articulated paver linkage is fit within the specified area by movement of at least one of the first, second and third paver pieces and the first and second grid substrates. The movement is transmitted along the articulated paver linkage to maintain a specified alignment and spacing of the first, second and third paver pieces.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 26, 2008Publication date: March 3, 2011Inventors: Steven George Smith, Steven John Thorkelson
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Publication number: 20110052317Abstract: A method of constructing a roadway having an embedded linear synchronous motor (LSM) utilizes prefabricated modules. Structurally, each module comprises a top plate, a multiple-phase winding tied to the top plate, and a concrete mold encapsulating the winding. With the modules prefabricated, the roadway is constructed by first excavating a trench to position a foundation at the trench bottom. Then a mud matt is positioned on the foundation. Next, the modules are laid end-to-end on the mud matt. Thereafter, the windings in adjacent modules are electrically interconnected through joints. Further, the joints are covered by junction boxes, and the trench around the roadway is filled in with aggregate.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 3, 2009Publication date: March 3, 2011Inventors: Philip L. Jeter, Husam gurol, In-Kun Kim
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Publication number: 20100196095Abstract: Disclosed are pavement markers and a mobile highway marking apparatus for advancing in a forward direction along a paved surface of a highway for applying a paint stripe to the paved surface and applying pavement markers at intervals on the paint stripe. The marking apparatus includes a dispenser that is configured for moving a sequence of the pavement markers from the bottom of an upwardly extending stack of the pavement markers first in the forward direction and then down a sloped chute in a rearward direction to the paint stripe without turning the pavement markers over.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 30, 2009Publication date: August 5, 2010Applicant: Fortson-Peek Company, Inc.Inventor: Mark S. Bjorklund
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Patent number: 7744306Abstract: Disclosed is an alkyd resin-based pre-manufactured thermoplastic airport runway signage that is applied in relatively large sections onto an airport runway. The pre-manufactured preformed thermoplastic formed as a continuous sheet and wound onto a take-up spool. The runway surface is prepared with a CCS epoxy primer and the preformed thermoplastic is unwound from the take-up spool and positioned onto the runway surface. When the pre-manufactured thermoplastic signage is in a desired location it is initially rolled conforming to the runway surface. Heat is applied to the rolled surface to a preferred temperature with an infra-red (IR) heater to melt and adhere the pre-manufactured thermoplastic signage into the runway surface.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 2007Date of Patent: June 29, 2010Inventors: Robert F. Greer, Alexander F. Cady
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Patent number: 7740413Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2006Date of Patent: June 22, 2010Inventor: Thomas Grayson
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Patent number: 7722287Abstract: An athletic surface having a resilient layer operatively positioned on the supporting structure including a top playing surface; and a bottom surface associated with the supporting base structure. The bottom surface associated with the supporting base structure includes a first side surface and a second side surface, both of which extend in the longitudinal direction of the layer. The said bottom surface also includes a first end surface and a second end surface, both of which extend in the transverse direction of the layer. The top playing surface of the athletic flooring system includes a drainage facilitating means associated with the top surface.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 2007Date of Patent: May 25, 2010Assignee: Fieldturf Tarkett Inc.Inventor: Kevin Swank
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Patent number: 7717641Abstract: The present application relates to a barrier assembly used to block access, improve security, and landscape property. The barrier assembly comprises at least a support assembly so configured to secure to the ground; a retractable assembly so configured to be received within the support assembly; and a locking assembly attached to the retractable assembly, the locking assembly comprising (a) a locking rod assembly configured to hold the retractable assembly in at least a first fixed position, (b) a tamper proof lock configured to maintain the orientation of the locking rod assembly, and (c) a locking tool configured to access the tamper proof lock and adjust the locking rod assembly so that the retractable assembly can be adjusted from the first fixed position to a second fixed position.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2008Date of Patent: May 18, 2010Inventor: David L Stice
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Publication number: 20100086349Abstract: An apparatus and a method for disabling a ground engaging traction device of a land vehicle includes at least one penetrator configured to breach the traction device, an articulated strap configured to move between a retracted arrangement and an extended arrangement, an inflatable bladder configured to deploy the articulated strip to the extended arrangement, and a retractor configured to retract the articulated strip to the retracted arrangement. The articulated strip includes a plurality of plates coupled to the penetrators and a plurality of joints, wherein individual joint couples individual adjacent plates.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 6, 2009Publication date: April 8, 2010Inventors: Martin A. Martinez, Patrick Barnhill, Brian Rosner
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Patent number: 7645090Abstract: A method for at least slowing a vehicle moving along a surface, the method comprising: providing first and second panels rotatably disposed on the surface and capable of extending above the surface, wherein each of the first and second panels rotate in a different and opposite direction; providing at least one center panel disposed between the first and second panels, the center panel being capable of being deployed into a position extended from the surface; detecting at least one of a vehicle speed, vehicle type, and vehicle weight; and controlling one or more of the first, second, and center panels based on the detecting.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2008Date of Patent: January 12, 2010Assignee: Omnitek Partners LLCInventors: Jahangir S. Rastegar, Thomas Spinelli
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Patent number: 7614819Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 4, 2009Date of Patent: November 10, 2009Assignee: Schram Management CompanyInventors: Clifford R. Mirman, Jon M. Schram
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Publication number: 20090252552Abstract: A supplemental access cover is adapted to cover an access cover. The supplemental access cover includes a layer of material having a thickness in the range of 0.01 inch to 1.5 inches, and an apparatus for attaching the layer of material to the access cover. A method for paving uses the supplemental access cover. The method includes locating an access cover within an area to be paved, attaching a supplemental cover to the access cover, and paving over the access cover and the supplemental cover. The method for paving also includes relocating the access cover, and removing the supplemental cover from the access cover.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 7, 2008Publication date: October 8, 2009Inventors: Dwight G. Wiedrich, Christopher Michael Larson, James Lee McCain, Lee Dean Mastell
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Patent number: 7594778Abstract: Useful in a construction environment, for example, the protection system is installed over a surface to be protected, various configurations of a protection system are installed over a portion of an infrastructure improvement, such as a sidewalk, curb, gutter, or other structure. Traffic crossing the surface of the infrastructure improvement is then directed over the protection system to avoid damage that could otherwise occur due to the application of topical weight directly on the surface. The protection system may include ramps that facilitate traffic over the protected surface.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2007Date of Patent: September 29, 2009Inventor: Sergei C Baranoff
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Publication number: 20090238641Abstract: A system for anchoring a parking curb is provided which may include an anchoring rod and a plate. The anchoring rod bisects the plate and is parallel to the thickness of the plate. The anchoring rod may bisect the plate through a center point of the plate. The plate may be secured to the anchoring rod. In some embodiments, the anchoring rod and plate can be manufactured as one piece. The plate may be of any suitable shape, including square and rectangular.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 18, 2008Publication date: September 24, 2009Inventor: Raymond TAMBURRO
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Patent number: 7581900Abstract: Pre-cast curbside access ramp and methods of making and installing the same. In a preferred embodiment, the pre-cast ramp is a quasi-trapezoidal member shaped to include an integrally formed curb portion, a trapezoidal central portion disposed behind the curb portion and a pair of generally triangular side portions disposed behind the curb portion and seamlessly transitioning from opposite sides of the central portion. The ramp is made using a forming apparatus comprising an inner form positioned within an outer form. The inner form, which is more shallow than the outer form, is filled with gravel. A steel grid is then positioned within the outer form and over the inner form. The outer form is then filled with concrete, which is then shaped, screeded, edged, grooved, troweled and allowed to harden within the outer form. When removed from the outer form, the bottom of the cast is provided with a weight-reducing recess.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2006Date of Patent: September 1, 2009Inventor: Edmund T. Kochling
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Patent number: 7455475Abstract: An environmentally sound method for applying or fixing elements (2) to constructed objects used for road traffic. The element (2), which is at least partially made of a material that can be liquefied by mechanical energy, is positioned on the surface, is pressed against the surface, and is simultaneously subjected to a local mechanical stimulation to liquefy the liquefiable material, and the element (2) binds with the surface upon re-solidifying. A mobile device (1) for applying elements (2) of this type, includes device that can travel via rolls or rollers (4, 5) and that is provided with at least one oscillating unit (10) including a sonotrode (6), a converter (7) and of an amplifier (8), and with a generator (9). The element (2) may be a marking or signaling element to be applied to roads or tunnel walls.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2006Date of Patent: November 25, 2008Assignee: Woodwelding AGInventors: Gerhard Plasonig, Christoph Niederhauser
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Patent number: 7448176Abstract: System and apparatus for repair of concrete surfaces, and a method of using the same, having slab removal plates, slab replacement plates, slab transport/replacement frame carrier vehicles, slab injection/guide collars for application of fluid binding material as support for the replacement slabs, and microprocessor controlled global satellite coordinates, wireless transmission, and bar code identification for slab replacement.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 2004Date of Patent: November 11, 2008Inventor: William M. Drake
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Patent number: 7435034Abstract: A fascine comprises a plurality of elongate hollow inflatable pipes (10). The pipes (10) can be surmounted by a trackway (11) formed by track sections (28) that are also inflatable. The pipes (10) in the track sections (28) can be vacuum packed for compact transportation and easy deployment.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2004Date of Patent: October 14, 2008Assignee: Survitec Group LimitedInventors: Tommy Scott, Peter Gordon
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Patent number: 7419327Abstract: A method for fabricating and forming a continuous covered area, such as a sidewalk or patio, employing vertically interlocking tessellated components. One embodiment, termed PORTAPAVE™, achieves this interlocking via an array of uniquely configured two-sectioned pavers. Each paver has a first section of a first shape and a second section of a second shape impressed upon the first section and bonded together. In one embodiment, first sections of pavers are installed in a bottom layer to form a cavity between them having the same shape as the second section of a paver that is inverted onto the pavers of the bottom layer, thus providing a top layer. Each inverted paver in this top layer is fitted to interlock in that cavity formed between the un-inverted pavers in the bottom layer.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2006Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the ArmyInventor: Charles A. Weiss, Jr.
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Publication number: 20080175662Abstract: A portable porous pavement system includes a plurality of porous pavement units and a plurality of clamping devices, in which each of the porous pavement units is connected to an adjacent porous pavement unit by at least one clamping device. Each clamping device includes a first bracket and a second bracket. The first bracket defines a slot arrangement. The second bracket is in intimate communication with the slot arrangement of the first bracket. The second bracket has a twisted arrangement to secure the second bracket and the first bracket together. Two adjacent walls of two adjacent porous pavement units are sandwiched between the first bracket and the second bracket to secure the two adjacent porous pavement units together.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 22, 2008Publication date: July 24, 2008Inventors: Ricardo Schmalbach, Mario Moreno, Daniel F. Senf, Gary M. Bach
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Patent number: 7399139Abstract: A device and method for contouring three-dimensionally curved surfaces includes an elongated contouring assembly that is supported at two locations by height adjustment mechanisms that raise and lower the two locations of the contouring assembly independently of each other. The contouring assembly creates a three-dimensionally curved surface as it passes over an area to be contoured. The control of at least one location of the contouring assembly is based on a comparison of the measured position of one portion of the contouring assembly with a profile of the surface to be leveled that is stored in a computer memory. Control of the height of the other location is preferably based on the height above a physical reference measured with a proximity sensor. A pivot or tilting controller may control the tilting of the contouring assembly to follow the slope of the profile stored in computer memory.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2005Date of Patent: July 15, 2008Assignees: Somero Enterprises, Inc., Michigan Technological UniversityInventors: Carl B Kieranen, Charles A Hallstrom, Glen R Simula, Nils P Ruonavaara, James D Waineo
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Patent number: 7393017Abstract: An improved pocket-sized book capable of one-handed manipulation. The book has informational pages among which a user may navigate by using only the hand holding the book. The book has finger slots for receiving the fingers of a user and a thumb restraint for securing the thumb and thumb mass to prevent both from interfering with either the turning of the pages or the user's view of the information printed thereon. By placing his or her finger on one of the tabs and providing an upward rotational force on the book, a user is able to open the book to the desired section and view the information printed on the pages therein. A guard attached to the side of the book blocks the lateral movement of the pages so that the pages do not become askew.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2004Date of Patent: July 1, 2008Inventors: Andrea Carmichael, Bobby Frese
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Patent number: 7387463Abstract: An apparatus for separating and lifting a manhole cover from a cover mounting ring without disturbing the mounting ring includes a body, a lever arm and lifting arm pivotally connected to the body with the outer end of the lifting arm extending outwardly from the first end of the body, an preferably hydraulic actuator for raising and lowering the outer end of the lifting arm, and a ring engagement plate extending outwardly from the first end of the body below the lifting arm, to be received over the cover mounting ring. The apparatus may be constructed by modifying a conventional hydraulic floor jack. Upon activation of the hydraulic actuator lifting force is imposed between the cover and the cover mounting ring to separate and lift the cover without disturbing the mounting ring.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 2005Date of Patent: June 17, 2008Inventor: Walter T. Winn, Jr.
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Publication number: 20080131203Abstract: An application process for an environmentally friendly water soluble acrylic emulsion paver sealant. The process described herein supports environmentally friendly application, a cost effective application that can be completed in 1 day without the normal “drying time” of other sealants and other application processes. The process stated herein is not sensitive to moisture as with other sealants. The sealant can be applied under wet or dry conditions and provides deep sealing with the application of a flood coat. The ability to apply a flood coat of sealant under wet or dry conditions speeds the application of the sealant and results in the elimination of the normally necessary “drying time” required in the application of other sealants. Furthermore, the application of a flood coat under wet conditions minimizes the formation of effervescence. The described process herein further supports a host of sealant additives to improve the environmental characteristics of the sealant.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 30, 2006Publication date: June 5, 2008Inventor: Richard Colletti
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Patent number: 7374141Abstract: A clip including two plates that preferably are substantially parallel, a spacer that connects the plates and that holds the plates apart by a gap, and at least one part of a hook-and-loop fastener attached to at least one of the plates opposite the other of the plates. Also, a clip including a plate, one or more structures for fastening the plate to an object, and at least one part of a hook-and-loop fastener attached to the plate. In addition, a method of using such clips.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2003Date of Patent: May 20, 2008Inventor: David Holden
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Patent number: 7354220Abstract: A utility cover system and method of covering and sealing an access cover for a utility entrance within a road surface. The utility cover system includes an outer frame having an opening defined by an inner edge, and a wedge cover of resilient material having an outer mating edge that fits within the opening of the outer frame. The wedge cover is removably positionable to cover the access opening by passing through the opening defined in the outer frame.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2005Date of Patent: April 8, 2008Inventor: Robert F. Corr
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Publication number: 20080044225Abstract: A manhole installation and repair assembly. The assembly has a first load carrying member and a second load carrying member. Each load carrying member has a midspan seat arranged substantially at a midspan location of the respective load carrying member's. The midspan seats form a crossmember joint, the joint enables the load carrying member's to be arranged in the same plane and also provides for structural continuity between the load carrying members. The load carrying member's each have ground engaging locations and manhole ring retainer elements to grab on to the manhole ring holding the ring and cover in suspension below the load carrying members. An inflatable form liner is used to span the gap between the manhole ring and the top of the manhole cone.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 22, 2007Publication date: February 21, 2008Inventor: Tom Swartz
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Publication number: 20070269267Abstract: A cover removal apparatus in embodiments of the invention may include one or more of the following features: (a) a frame, (b) an electromagnet, (c) a power source electrically coupled to the electromagnet for selectively energizing the electromagnet, (d) means for positioning the electromagnet relative to a cover, the means for positioning coupled to the frame and to the electromagnet, (e) means for loosening the cover, and (f) a hydraulic actuator that forces the second hydraulic ram and the hammer toward the cover to apply a loosening force to the cover with the hammer device.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 19, 2006Publication date: November 22, 2007Inventor: David Roberts
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Patent number: 7249913Abstract: A filled artificial turf includes a plurality of filled artificial turf sections which can be disconnected, rolled up and stored and then later unrolled and reconnected, thereby to enable a facility to accommodate a wide variety of sporting and non-sporting events, with no adverse effects on the playability of the turf. Each of the sections includes a backing, fibers secured to the backing, and a particulate fill with the fibers being of sufficient density and texture so as to substantially hold the particulate fill to the backing during rolling and unrolling. The sections also include hook and loop fasteners along the edges thereof, to facilitate simple and cost-effective connection and disconnection of the sections.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2004Date of Patent: July 31, 2007Assignee: Coevin Licensing, LLCInventor: Stephen L. Linville
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Patent number: 7244076Abstract: A method of installing paving blocks comprises preparing an area to be paved to a desired grade. A preformed, load-bearing sheet of material, e.g., extruded polystyrene, is placed on the prepared area. Paving blocks are then laid in a desired pattern on the sheet of material.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2004Date of Patent: July 17, 2007Assignee: Bend Industries, Inc.Inventor: Robert L. Whitson
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Patent number: 7234893Abstract: A method of making a membrane assembly by forming at least a pair of bottom sheet membranes and at least one top sheet membrane, wherein the bottom sheet membranes are adapted to attach to and cover respective pavement sections of a roadway, and constructing each top sheet membrane with a track, wherein each track receives edges of a corresponding pair of the bottom sheet membranes.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2006Date of Patent: June 26, 2007Assignee: Saint-Gobain Technical Fabrics Canada, LtdInventor: Gregory M. Lyons
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Patent number: 7207743Abstract: A method for constructing an automotive vehicle parking lot (10) on a land area (12) is provided. A composite drainage material (20) is provided through which water drains. The composite drainage material (20) comprises a polymeric open mesh core (22) between first and second layers (24 and 26) of a non-woven geo-textile fabric. The land area (12) is covered with the material (20) by placing rolls (28) of the material adjacent one another. The rolls (28) are unrolled over the land area (12) so that longitudinal edge portions (30 and 40) of adjacent rolls adjoin one another. A portion (34, 44) of the longitudinal edge portions (30 and 40) are overlapped and secured to each other, and not to the land area (12), to create a gapless and continuous surface (84) of the material (20), with the majority of the land area (12) lying underneath the material. The first layer (24) of each of the rolls (28) contacts the land area (12).Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2003Date of Patent: April 24, 2007Assignee: Polivka Parking Solutions LLCInventor: A. Basil Polivka, Jr.
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Patent number: 7144189Abstract: A locking cover apparatus for an opening in the ground is disclosed. The apparatus can be retro-fitted to an existing ground opening, or can be newly constructed ground opening fitted with the apparatus of the present invention. The apparatus features a keyed lock that has a projecting portion that fits under an existing or newly constructed shroud that is installed at ground level and around the ground opening.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2003Date of Patent: December 5, 2006Inventors: Brad Bongiovanni, Shawn Funderburk
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Patent number: 7101113Abstract: A self-guiding shopping cart collection, storage, and retrieval system is provided which is integrated into the parking lot construction. A collection channel is adjacent and parallel to a row of parking spaces which is formed as an inset trough configured to allow rolling translation of a shopping cart to a collection end. The collection channel has a generally planar floor and at least one inclined side bank with the floor being downwardly linearly inclined toward the collection end. Lateral feed channels intersect with the collection channel which are configured to allow rolling translation of a shopping cart from the parking lot into the collection channel. Thus, shopping carts from the parking lot are introduced into the lateral feed channels at the parking lot level and guided therethrough into the collection channel.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2005Date of Patent: September 5, 2006Inventor: Metra Hughes
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Patent number: 7004674Abstract: A pre-fabricated warped pavement slab and a forming system for making the slabs. The forming system includes a plurality of forming sections which can be adjusted so as to form a warped-plane pavement slab. Also disclosed are methods for making the pavement slab and forming system. Also disclosed is a method for installing the warped pavement slab.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2004Date of Patent: February 28, 2006Assignee: Fort Miller Co., Inc.,Inventor: Peter J. Smith
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Patent number: 6981818Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2004Date of Patent: January 3, 2006Assignee: Trackout Holding Company, LLCInventor: Jeffrey M. Lange
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Patent number: 6979145Abstract: An improved driveway gutter having a flexible gutter mat bridging the trough in the gutter for improving driving over driveway gutters. The mat is made of flexible material such as heavy rubber. The mat is placed with its flat bottom bridging the gutter, and fastened down by bolts in recessed holes in the mat. Because the mat is flexible, when a car drives over the mat it is forced down to conform with the gutter, and the top of the mat smoothes out the gutter for the car. When the weight is removed the mat springs back into shape bridging the gutter, so that the passage of water is not impeded. The fastening holes are deep enough that the fasteners do not protrude above the surface of the mat when it is deformed by a tire crossing the mat.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2005Date of Patent: December 27, 2005Inventor: Michael Kozlowski
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Patent number: 6962462Abstract: A pre-fabricated pavement slab having a binder distribution system and an interconnection system formed for attachment of the bottom surface of the slab, wherein both the binder distribution system and the interconnection system are accessible from the top surface of the slab, such that the binder material may be injected into the binder distribution and interconnection systems from the top surface of the slab.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2001Date of Patent: November 8, 2005Assignee: The Fort Miller Co., Inc.Inventor: Peter J. Smith
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Patent number: 6939078Abstract: A precast concrete slab and framing system is placed in walkways, curb ramps, platform edges, and areas of pedestrian traffic where they intersect with vehicular traffic, warning the visually handicapped of dangerous crossings. The precast slabs, which incorporate raised, truncated domes on the top side and a floated finish on the bottom side, are made to be set in the frame which has been set and cast into fresh concrete. A number of slabs are placed in a frame abutting each other on top of sand and the edges are filled with sand to lock them into place. The top surface is placed to be flush with the walking surface.Type: GrantFiled: September 3, 2004Date of Patent: September 6, 2005Assignee: Rampdome Systems LLCInventors: Jeffrey W. Anderson, Ricky Jack Eischen, Shawn L. Shelton, Delbert T. Shelton, Jr.
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Patent number: 6902349Abstract: A method for dispensing and applying a nested collated array of permanent raised pavement markers (RPMs), wherein portions of a release sheet are folded between successive ones of the permanent raised pavement markers (RPMs), and successive permanent raised pavement markers (RPMs) are disposed atop one another with an undersurface portion of one of the permanent raised pavement markers (RPMs) being disposed in contact with a successive one of the permanent raised pavement markers (RPMs), is disclosed. The method further comprises the use of a stripper plate, an indexable roller, a drive motor, and a program logic controller (PLC) for achieving the separating and dispensing steps.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2004Date of Patent: June 7, 2005Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventors: Chad M. Orthaus, Calice G. Courneya
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Patent number: 6902348Abstract: Apparatus and method are disclosed in connection with the separating, dispensing, and application of a plurality of temporary raised pavement markers (TRPMs), having substantially L-shaped configurations, which are arranged within a collated nested array upon a single release liner. Portions of the release liner are folded between successive ones of the pavement markers such that when the folded portions of the release sheet are unfolded in conjunction with the dispensing of a leading one of the pavement markers, the release liner is routed around a stripper plate and the temporary raised pavement markers (TRPMs) are effectively stripped from the release liner, deposited upon the pavement surface, and an application wheel affixes the temporary raised pavement markers (TRPMs) to the pavement surface.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2003Date of Patent: June 7, 2005Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventors: Chad M. Orthaus, Calice G. Courneya
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Patent number: 6902350Abstract: A collated array of temporary raised pavement markers (TRPMs), or permanent half-track and full-track raised pavement markers (RPM), has the pavement markers disposed in a nested arrangement with portions of a release sheet folded between successive ones of the pavement markers such that when the folded portions of the release sheet are unfolded in conjunction with the dispensing of a leading one of the pavement markers, feather-edge boundary structure defined between the release sheet and the block of adhesive material upon the associated one of the pavement markers is effectively recombined with the primary mass of adhesive material upon the pavement marker such that the feather-edge structure is assimilated into the primary mass of adhesive material in order to readily permit the separation, peeling, and stripping of the release sheet from the pavement marker.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2004Date of Patent: June 7, 2005Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventors: Chad M. Orthaus, Calice G. Courneya
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Patent number: 6899489Abstract: A pre-fabricated warped pavement slab and a forming system for making the slabs. The forming system includes a plurality of forming sections which can be adjusted so as to form a warped-plane pavement slab. Also disclosed are methods for making the pavement slab and forming system. Also disclosed is a method for installing the warped pavement slab.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2002Date of Patent: May 31, 2005Assignee: Fort Miller Co., Inc.Inventor: Peter J. Smith
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Patent number: 6890124Abstract: A pre-cast textured tile system and method for positioning on walkways, crosswalks and other areas of pedestrian traffic for providing direction and warning to visually handicapped persons. The tile may be made for embedding in fresh concrete on a walking surface and have a substantially planar piece with a top surface and a bottom surface, the top surface having a plurality of raised elements and the bottom surface being scarified. A number of the tiles may be aligned so as to easily adapt to a number of different shapes and purposes. The tiles are not interconnected, but rather abut one another with at least one edge being flush to the walking surface.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2004Date of Patent: May 10, 2005Assignee: Detecto-Tile, Inc.Inventor: Peter J. Provenzano, III
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Patent number: 6832871Abstract: A collated array of temporary raised pavement markers (TRPMs), having substantially L-shaped configurations, has the pavement markers disposed in a nested arrangement with portions of a release sheet folded between successive ones of the pavement markers such that when the folded portions of the release sheet are unfolded in conjunction with the dispensing of a leading one of the pavement markers, feather-edge boundary structure defined between the release sheet and the block of adhesive material upon the associated one of the pavement markers is effectively recombined with the primary mass of adhesive material upon the pavement marker such that the feather-edge structure is assimilated into the primary mass of adhesive material in order to readily permit the separation, peeling, and stripping of the release sheet from the pavement marker.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 2002Date of Patent: December 21, 2004Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventors: Chad M. Orthaus, Calice G. Courneya
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Patent number: 6796740Abstract: Dispensing apparatus (2) for dispensing reflective elements, such as glass beads (4), onto a surface, typically a road surface, the apparatus (2) being attached to a vehicle. The glass beads (4) are placed in an inlet means (6) and directed along a path around a drive means (10), which drive means (10) imparts a velocity to the glass beads for subsequent delivery onto the surface through an outlet means (20). The glass beads (4) exit the outlet means (20) at a velocity having substantially the same magnitude as the magnitude of velocity at which the vehicle travels and a direction substantially opposite to the direction of travel of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2002Date of Patent: September 28, 2004Assignee: Potters Industries Inc.Inventors: Paul Joseph Chiron, Colin William Yob, Robert Alexander Carnaby
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Patent number: 6752566Abstract: The current invention includes a system and method for removing and replacing rigid slabs in pavement sections of highways, bridge decks, airport runways, and various other similar structures. The method may utilize a lifting frame which acts to remove damaged slabs in a single operation also is used to reinstall a replacement slab or panel while acting as external reinforcement and also serving to align and secure the replacement panel in the void left by the removed section while under bedding material is installed and cured under the new panel.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2003Date of Patent: June 22, 2004Assignee: Works R&D, Inc.Inventor: William Bruce Smith