Traffic Director Patents (Class 404/9)
  • Patent number: 6220781
    Abstract: A vehicle stopping device having a panel of material with a split extending from one end of the panel toward an opposite end of the panel, a tactile surface formed adjacent to one of the panel and adapted to attach to a tire rolling thereover, and a reinforcement sash affixed to the panel of material and extending in a partial loop around the split seam. The reinforcement sash has a first end affixed adjacent to the tactile surface and a second end affixed to the tactile surface on an opposite side of the split seam from the first end. The panel has a width dimension suitable for extending across a roadway. The tactile surface extends across this width dimension. The panel is capable of being folded into a concertina. The tactile surface can be either an adhesive applied onto a top surface of the panel of material, an adhesive retained within a plurality of blisters affixed along a forward edge of the panel of material, or a plurality of barbs extending upwardly from the top surface of the panel of material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Assignee: Purple & Green Research, Inc.
    Inventor: Douglas Miller
  • Patent number: 6203242
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a crash barrier which is adapted to be arranged in the middle of a dual carriageway and which is composed of a plurality of elongate barrier elements (1), preferably made of concrete, which are arranged successively with the short side of the respective barrier elements neighboring each other. Neighboring barrier elements (1, 1′) are interconnected by means of articulated connections (5, 6, 5′, 6′, 8) which prevent lateral displacement of the interconnected short sides relative to each other, but permit force-absorbing deformation of the crash barrier by pivoting of the barrier elements relative to each other in case a vehicle collides with the crash barrier. Each barrier element has at least two projecting connecting elements (5, 6) from each short side, which are connected with corresponding connecting elements (5′, 6′) of a neighboring barrier element (1′) by means of a rod (8) which is passed through holes (7) in each connecting element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Inventor: Gunnar Englund
  • Patent number: 6203241
    Abstract: An inertial barrier system comprised of inertial barriers formed of two modules, each of them being differently sized and being adapted to stack one upon the other. An interlocking geometry on each of the mating ends of modules assists in obtaining a secure stacking arrangement, and also assists in varying the volumetric capacity of each of the two modules. Thus, when the smaller of the two modules is the upper module, facing upwardly so that its volumetric capacity is available for filling by a particulate ballasting material, a lighter weight barrier is obtained. On the other hand, when the two modules are inverted, and the larger one is the upper module, its greater volumetric capacity ensures that, once filled by the ballasting material, a heavier barrier will result. Advantageously, each module is sized to ensure a barrier of the proper weight when it is placed in the position of the upper module and is properly filled by a worker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Inventor: David C. Gertz
  • Patent number: 6200063
    Abstract: A guide barrier system, especially for forming or securing traffic roads with a plurality of guide sections, which are arranged in at least one row one behind the other and can be connected to one another, wherein each guide section has a middle piece which is directed essentially in parallel to the direction of the traffic road and is elastically deformable at right angles to its longitudinal axis. A plurality of supports extend essentially at right angles to the middle piece with support surfaces extending essentially symmetrically to the middle piece provided at the middle piece. The said support surfaces are arranged at mutually spaced locations from one another at the middle piece to achieve the deformability of the middle piece. Two respective, mutually adjacent guide sections can be detachably connected to one another by means of a coupling piece engaging spaces located between the supports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2001
    Inventor: Klaus Fritzinger
  • Patent number: 6190084
    Abstract: A modular separating barrier element including a frame of generally rectangular structure which is molded from synthetic material and which borders an inner panel having plain regions and regions having perforations and other regions having reinforcing ribs. Detachable feet are coupled rotatably to the lower ends of the shorter sides of the structure of the element. The shorter sides have elements for complementary coupling with other elements of adjacent barriers. Each of the shorter sides may include a pair of projections, those of one of the sides having respective vertical through-holes and those of the other side having respective pairs of coaxial rods which extend vertically and which can be fitted in the holes of the projections of an adjacent barrier element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Assignee: Construcciones Mecánicas Marés, S.A.
    Inventor: Pere Mares Ibañez
  • Patent number: 6186699
    Abstract: A safety delineator is provided which includes a conical body portion to which is attached one or more vertical panels. The delineators may be stacked without removing the vertical panels, since each vertical panel is particularly designed to warp around the conical body portion to which it is attached as another vertical delineator slides over it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2001
    Assignee: Traffix Devices, Inc.
    Inventors: Jack H. Kulp, Billy E. Wehring
  • Patent number: 6179516
    Abstract: A collapsible crash barrier for use as and end treatment for a commonly known “Jersey Barrier” provides a frame assembly having a tubular construction and circular guides to control axial collapse of the barrier. A saddle is provided to rest upon and end section of a “Jersey Barrier” and slides along the top of a barrier when axially impacted by a vehicle in order to further control the collapse of the barrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Assignee: The Texas A&M University System
    Inventors: Don L. Ivey, Richard A. Zimmer
  • Patent number: 6168346
    Abstract: A spacer for supporting a horizontally extending guard rail on a vertically extending post in a roadway safety barrier system includes a first portion that is secured to the guard rail and a second portion that is secured to the post. The first and second portions are shaped to correspond with the shapes of the guard rail and the post secured thereto. For example, if the guard rail is formed having an undulating cross sectional shape, the first portion of the space is formed having a corresponding undulating cross sectional shape. One or more bores are formed through the spacer between said first and second faces for receiving a bolt for securing the guard rail and the post to the spacer. The spacer is formed from a thermoplastic material that is recyclable, will not absorb water, stable under the ultraviolet and other radiation generated by the sun, will not splinter, crack, or delaminate in use, and is more cost effective than conventional wooden spacers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2001
    Inventor: Ronald E. Ernsberger
  • Patent number: 6164865
    Abstract: A lightweight barrier with locking devices at the top, middle, and bottom. Each barrier has an I-shaped male tab and a matching female slot. The I-shaped male tab is inserted into the female slot on an adjacent barrier. Locking pins are inserted through lower end upper extensions of the I-shaped male tab of the barrier near the bottom and the middle. The locking pins extend through both barriers such that the first and second barriers are secured together at the bottom and the middle. Another locking device is positioned at the top of the barrier which consists of a hinged locking bar held by a hinge pin. When the barrier is mated with an adjoining barrier, the hinged locking bar extends over the adjoining barrier to fit within a locking cavity. The locking bar is then secured to the other barrier to retain it in the locking cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Inventor: Gerald L. McCallum
  • Patent number: 6158919
    Abstract: A marker post having a breachable coating for providing a visual indication of the presence of an object, with the marker post comprised of glass fibers supported in a resin containing a secondary pigment to provide an internal color to the marker post, and with the breachable coating containing an ultraviolet blocking agent, with the breachable coating having a principle pigment of a color that is the same or substantially the same color as the secondary pigment in the resin so that in the event the breachable coating having the principle color pigment is breached, the underlying secondary pigment in the resin will be visible through the breached coating so that a viewer observing the marker post from a distance will see the marker post as one color even though two distinct surfaces of the marker post are exposed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Inventor: Scott D. Landes
  • Patent number: 6149338
    Abstract: A visual barrier for highway use, comprising a horizontal web having a width and a length, wherein the length is greater than the width; and an undulating vertical web orthogonally connected to and extending away from the horizontal web, wherein the vertical web is formed of a thermoplastic material, and in which the horizontal web may be undulating, with first surfaces having holes therethrough and second surfaces without holes, wherein the second surfaces are facing toward oncoming traffic and the first surfaces and the holes are facing away from oncoming traffic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Inventor: John Derrick Anderson
  • Patent number: 6149339
    Abstract: A foldable road marker is formed of a pair of panels each having a central stem portion integrally connected with side panel portions. The panels each having an elongated slot with the stem portion and slots being coaxial. Each stem portion is fitted within the slot of the opposite panel for interconnecting the panels. The panels are pivotable relative to each other into a position in which they are transverse to each other or, alternatively, into a folded position in which they are generally parallel and closely overlap to each other for storage. Guide members are formed in the slots of each of the panels for slideably fitting within vertically arranged guide channels formed in the stem portions of their opposite panel for guiding the assembly of, and the positions of, the panels relative to each other. Detents are provided for holding the panels in their transverse position for marker use or, alternatively, in their folded, parallel storage position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Inventors: James Sinclair Salloum, Wilburn Alden White, David Alden White, Edward Cullin Smith, John Quinn Nelson
  • Patent number: 6149134
    Abstract: A guardrail system including a rail and rail connectors is described wherein the rail is formed of several elongated tubes which are integrally molded at the tube sidewalls. The tubes preferably have polygonal cross-sections with sidewalls situated in horizontal and vertical planes, with the vertical sidewalls of the various tubes staggered at different depths within the rail. Connections between rails may be achieved by internal connectors which fit within the tubes of adjacent rails, and/or by use of external connectors which receive the ends of adjacent rails. Such internal and external connectors may also be used to reinforce damaged rails to restore their performance characteristics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Assignee: Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation
    Inventors: Lawrence Colin Bank, Thomas Russell Gentry
  • Patent number: 6142701
    Abstract: A traffic management system is provided including a primary dispensing post and a banner having an inboard coupled to the primary dispensing post to be dispensed and retracted by way of a crank. The banner has traffic managing indicia positioned thereon. Further, a terminal post is connected to an outboard edge of the banner for maintaining the same upright.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Inventor: George Falcon
  • Patent number: 6132132
    Abstract: A water-borne road marking paint is disclosed characterised in that incorporated within the paint are particles of a solid polymer or inorganic compound, which are capable of absorbing water. Preferred particles are ion exchange resin beads. Incorporation of such particles either during or immediately after application of the paint results in a substantial improvement in the speed of drying of the paint on the road.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Assignee: Rohm and Haas Company
    Inventors: Marico Giuseppe Pirotta, Angelo Sanfilippo, Andrew Paul Trapani
  • Patent number: 6127020
    Abstract: A method of making a retroreflective marking material is provided, the method has the steps of: (a) providing an enclosed-lens retroreflective sheet having a top surface and a bottom surface and comprising a cover layer and a monolayer of retroreflective elements; (b) applying a conformance layer to the bottom surface of the retroreflective sheet; and (c) laminating a configuration member to the conformance layer thereby creating first portions and second portions in the sheet, the first portions being arranged in an upwardly contoured profile and the second portions being arranged in a lower, substantially planar position. A retroreflective article made by the method is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2000
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Chester A. Bacon, Jr., Louis C. Belisle, deceased, Larry K. Stump, Terry R. Bailey, T. Ian Bradshaw, Dale H. Haunschild, Gregory F. Jacobs
  • Patent number: 6116811
    Abstract: A warning barricade apparatus for restricting pedestrian and vehicular traffic and having an increased ability to minimize dislocation of an associated lighting unit upon vehicular impact, while also facilitating removal of the lighting unit for relocation and battery replacement. The warning barricade apparatus comprises a barricade member, an associated lighting unit, a lighting unit sleeve, and an overlaying member. The lighting unit sleeve comprises opposing retaining wall members, which define a lighting unit retention region. The overlaying member covers at least a portion of the lighting unit retention region, and preferably conforms to at least a portion of the lighting unit contour. Upon insertion of the lighting unit into the lighting unit retention region, the overlaying member comes into contact with or partially covers at least a portion of the lighting unit, and a securing member, such as a bolt, anchors the lighting unit to the lighting unit sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Assignee: WLI Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: LeRoy L. Goff
  • Patent number: 6109821
    Abstract: A roadway marker comprises a solid body member having a lower generally planar surface configured to be adhered directly to a roadway surface. The marker is injection molded as a one-piece structure from a closed-cell foam thermoplastic material using a chemical blowing agent. The bottom surface of the body member may be formed with slight recesses or protrusions such that the entire bottom of the marker fills with adhesive when the marker is installed. Thus, maximum adhesive surface area is provided between the marker and the roadway surface. Further, the closed-cell foam construction creates a marker body which is strong, economical to mold and which does not shrink after molding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Inventors: Anthony A. Montalbano, Sidney A. Heenan, Loren M. Lundtveit
  • Patent number: 6109754
    Abstract: A reflective marker is disclosed. The marker comprises at least one rotatable reflective element contained within an interior volume of an at least partially transparent container, such that the at least one reflective element is visible from outside the container. A drive motor is provided for rotating the at least one reflective element within the container to create a visually striking appearance. The drive motor is powered by at least one rechargeable power source; a recharging device is associated with the at least one rechargeable power source and further with at least one photovoltaic cell, the recharging device operative to recharge the at least one rechargeable power source using electricity supplied by the at least one photovoltaic cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Inventor: Rob Steele
  • Patent number: 6101967
    Abstract: A plastic barricade assembly including two leg and panel units pivotally interconnected. Each leg and panel unit comprises first and second leg members and a plurality of panel members, the members being separately blow molded. The first leg members of each leg and panel unit are identical to each other and, at the same time, different than the second leg members of each leg and panel unit which are, in turn, identical to each other. Each leg and panel unit is assembled by bolting a first and second leg member together with a plurality of panel members. The leg and panel members of each unit are bolted together in interlocking relationship.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Assignee: Plasticade Products Corporation
    Inventors: Geoffrey M. Glass, Wayne J. Brocka, Douglas C. Madsen
  • Patent number: 6102612
    Abstract: A pavement marker comprising a base member and a signal device for sending a light signal to a driver of an oncoming vehicle further includes a longitudinally extending tire directing hood member that directs tire contact away from the upper edge, upper portion, and upper generally corner portions of the signal device front face, while allowing tire contact with the lower portion of the signal device front face. The signal device front face is at a predetermined recess depth in said pavement marker, and is at a predetermined angle with respect to the roadway surface. The marker can be either a snowplowable marker or a sun country marker. The signal device optionally can be mounted on a base member by a mechanical interlock. Optional drainage channels can be provided in the base member to allow drainage of fluid from in front of the lower portion of the signal device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Assignee: Stimsonite Corporation
    Inventors: Robert M. Pricone, Anthony J. Montalbano, Liviu A. Coman, Michael E. Flader, Loren M. Lundtveit, Edward V. Nick, Sidney A. Heenan, deceased, by Ronald A. Sandler, executor, Jeffrey Tidaback
  • Patent number: 6099200
    Abstract: An energy absorbing, retractable security barrier used to stop the movement of vehicles. The device is employed to control access to entranceways, driveways, roads and to secure a security perimeter around buildings and objects requiring such protection. The device consists of a reinforced telescoping bollard inserted into a foundation casing which is imbedded below ground. The device is manually operated and is extended by a self-contained gas-charged spring lift mechanism. The device contains a locking mechanism for securing the telescoping bollard in the extended and retracted positions. When in the retracted position the bollard is flush with the surface and can be traversed by a vehicle. The device is of simple design, easily installed and easily maintained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Inventors: John J. Pepe, Klaus Goeken
  • Patent number: 6095716
    Abstract: A safety delineator is provided which includes a conical body portion to which is attached one or more vertical panels. A new and improved handle feature permits easy and comfortable full hand gripping of the delineator and also prevents sticking and jammning together of a plurality of the delineators when they are stacked. The delineators may be stacked without removing the vertical panels, since each vertical panel is particularly designed to wrap around the conical body portion to which it is attached as another vertical delineator slides over it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2000
    Assignee: Traffix Devices, Inc.
    Inventors: Jack H. Kulp, Billy E. Wehring
  • Patent number: 6082926
    Abstract: A novel energy absorbing module is described which is relatively inexpensive, easy to make and provides for a relatively consistent crush resistance along its length when impacted axially. The module is made up of a generally cylindrical metal member which is formed from a roll of sheet metal that is wound into a tube having a spiral cross-section. A layer of spacer material, such as polyethylene foam, is placed adjacent the sheet metal so that the winds of the spiral are separated from one another. The energy absorbent module of the present invention provides a relatively constant and predictable level of crush resistance which makes it particularly suitable for such applications as an insert for a guardrail end treatment or other crash barrier. The module is formed by rolling a sheet of metal, or similar material, and the spacer sheet into a tubular or cylindrical form. A portion of one end of the module is then crushed slightly by impact loading.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2000
    Assignee: Texas A&M University System
    Inventor: Richard A. Zimmer
  • Patent number: 6084709
    Abstract: A delineator easily recognized by the driver even when attached at a moderate curve of a road includes colorless transparent reflectors attached inclined by a prescribed angle with respect to an aluminum base and amber transparent reflectors attached inclined in the opposite direction. Each reflector has a reflex reflecting element, an optical axis of which is inclined in the same direction as the corresponding reflector. Thus light beams entering in a direction parallel to the surface on which the delineator is attached can also be reflected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2000
    Assignee: Cateye Co. Ltd.
    Inventor: Hiroshi Nakade
  • Patent number: 6079898
    Abstract: A roadway cover system for protecting sections of utility lines run across roadways or the like that includes a ramp structure having a protected passageway through which the utility lines can be routed. To prevent the utility lines from abrasive rubbing contact with the roadway surface, the ramp structure is provided with a resilient protective shield that, in use, is positioned between the utility line and the roadway to protect the utility line from abrasive rubbing contact with the roadway surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2000
    Inventor: Dennis J. St. Amant, III
  • Patent number: 6053657
    Abstract: A safety or traffic marker is capable of providing a continuous physical border between two locations. A housing, or one of several adapters, are employed in a conventional traffic cone to dispense an elongated strip of tape therefrom. In one embodiment, the housing is physically incorporated into the interior of the marker, and is adapted for easy insertion and removal of a tape or safety material dispenser. In order to achieve easy insertion of the tape dispenser into the housing, the upper portion of the marker is split into separable sections. Since the marker is fabricated from a deformable material, the upper portion can be manually separated into an opened position for insertion of the tape dispenser therein. Hook and loop fasteners may be used to fasten together the two sections into a closed position. Adapters may also be used in conjunction with conventional traffic markers for creating a continuous physical border between two or more locations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2000
    Assignee: Consolidated Edison Company of New York, Inc.
    Inventor: John A. Signorelli
  • Patent number: 6036399
    Abstract: A crash barrier that includes barrier sections that are overlappingly joined in assembly. Each section includes a concave center segment cojoined to upper and lower convex sections. Elongated longitudinally extended studs are punched out of one end of each section within the concave center segment. The studs are arranged to engage receiving slots in the other end of each section to facilitate assembly and alignment of the sections upon vertically disposed posts that are driven into the ground. A special machine for assembling and aligning the sections with the support posts is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Assignee: Les Profiles du Centre S.A.
    Inventor: Henri Schalk
  • Patent number: 6036400
    Abstract: An impact recovery delineation quick connect/disconnect adapter system having plate studs and a pin that when added to the impact recovery delineation system allows the delineation panel, support post and load cell to be quickly connected to and/or disconnected from the supporting base (fixed or portable) with speed and without the use of any tools. The adapter plate which is connected to the load cell provides for radially aligned slots in a recessed platform to allow the plate to engage and lock with studs that are connected to the supporting base when the load cell is rotated about its vertical axis. The studs are particularly geometrically configured and have shoulder that is larger than the barrel and a head that is larger than the shoulder which results in a mechanical locking between the plate slots and the studs upon rotation of the plate with respect to the stationary studs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Assignee: Flexco
    Inventor: Richard O. Clark
  • Patent number: 6024510
    Abstract: An adaptive speed restriction device is disclosed for use on roads against peeding vehicles. The device comprises an elongated hollow element having a preselected length defining a cavity, an impervious and elastic casing having at least one upper surface presenting a hump; at least one air outlet vent that allows for flow of air from inside the casing outwards to the open atmosphere when external pressure is exerted on the upper surface, the upper surface collapsible into a flat surface as air flows out of the cavity; and an air inlet vent that allows flow of air outside of the casing into the cavity when the external pressure is not exerted on the upper surface. When a vehicle passes over the hump, pressure is exerted on the upper surface which expels air outside through the air outlet vent. The maximum flow rate of air exiting the cavity is adaptive to the speed of the vehicle passing over the device. The air outlet vent can be adjusted to allow the device to accommodate various allowed vehicle speeds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2000
    Assignee: State of Israel, Ministry of Defense, Armament Develoment Authority
    Inventor: Yehuda Kamienchick
  • Patent number: 6022003
    Abstract: To reduce the danger of bodily harm to occupants of vehicles that leave the roadway, a guardrail system includes a guardrail terminal and a guardrail. The guardrail terminal includes cutting means positioned to cut said guardrail as guardrail moves within said guardrail terminal and the guardrail terminal moves with respect to the guardrail to cut the guardrail when impacted by a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2000
    Assignee: The Board of Regents of the University of Nebraska
    Inventors: Dean L. Sicking, Brian G. Pfeifer
  • Patent number: 6022168
    Abstract: An apparatus permits guiding barriers resting on a street surface in the form of a track to be laterally shifted. The apparatus is fastened to a vehicle, and is moved along, together with the vehicle, in the longitudinal direction of the guiding barriers. The apparatus includes a guideway which has a curved portion extending behind the vehicle, such that a front portion of the guideway is laterally offset from a trailing portion thereof. The guideway has a generally U-shaped cross-section, upright legs of which guide the sides of the guiding barriers passing therethrough. A blade, disposed at the front end of the guideway, initially moves under the first guiding barrier. The first guiding barrier and the subsequent barriers constituting the track are pushed over the guideway, into a position which is offset laterally to the original position, and placed down again on the surface of the street.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2000
    Inventor: Wilhelm Junker
  • Patent number: 6019542
    Abstract: A D-shaped base fits tightly over a barrel to add ballast to the barrel. The base is perimeter weighted to increase resistance to tipping of the barrel. The interior circumference is designed to fit tightly on the barrel. The outer circumference includes a flat portion to resist rolling of the barrel if tipped over. As a result, if the barrel is tipped over, the base stays tightly fitted to the barrel, but if an automobile collides with the barrel, the base releases to reduce the possibility of damage to the automobile or barrel or base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2000
    Assignee: Bent Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Bruce C. Bent, James A. Bent
  • Patent number: 6019543
    Abstract: A foot for a traffic beacon, serving as routing device for road traffic, is proposed. At its lower end, the traffic beacon is coupled detachably with the foot. The traffic beacon, at least in its lower part, consists of a soft, elastic material and, at its lower edge, has a laterally protruding flange, which engages appropriately shaped recesses in the foot. These recesses are formed by clamping jaws, which can be bolted to a foot plate and, in each case, have a horizontal, inwardly protruding cross member. Nubs, protruding at the underside of the clamping jaws, press into the soft elastic material of the flange when the screws are tightened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2000
    Inventor: Wilhelm Junker
  • Patent number: 5993103
    Abstract: A control barrier is provided having a barrier wall with one or two support legs attached thereto. The barrier wall has a front face with a display recess formed therein and an internal cavity for selective filling with a ballast material. Each of the support legs are hingedly mounted to the back face of the barrier wall so as to selectively fold flat. Each support leg has an interior surface defining an internal chamber for selective filling with a ballast material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Assignee: Off the Wall Products LLC
    Inventor: Marc E. Christensen
  • Patent number: 5993105
    Abstract: A safety marker includes an hollow frusto-conical body; a base having an bowl-shaped main portion and a resiliently flexible skirt for yieldably stabilizing the marker against tipping relative to a supportive surface, the body being connected in upstanding relation to an inner portion of the base and concentric therewith, the base being formed to clear the cone defined by the inside surface of the body, the bowl being sufficiently large relative to the body and the base being weighted sufficiently that the marker is self-righting, the skirt being sufficiently flexible to be deflected against the bowl for preserving the self-righting capability of the marker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Inventor: Steven R. Chan
  • Patent number: 5975792
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved security control barrier for use in controlling ingress and egress to entranceways, exit ways, driveways, and parking spots. The device consists of a telescoping bollard inserted into a casing imbedded below ground and a locking mechanism for securing the telescoping bollard in the extended and retracted positions. The invention also serves as an effective anti-theft device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Inventors: Klaus Goeken, John J. Pepe
  • Patent number: 5964053
    Abstract: An improved structure of warning sign comprised of two warning plates, two pivot axles and several light reflexible sheets, wherein, the inner sides of two lateral edges on the top end of each warning plate each has a recess, a bevelled edge is provided above each recess, and two lateral engaging plates are provided under the two recesses of each warning plate, one of the lateral engaging plates of each warning plate has inside thereof a protruding engaging spot, and the other lateral engaging plate of the warning plate has inside thereof several arciform dents, each warning plate has on the inner side thereof two engaging plates with a wider spacing and two engaging plates with a narrower sparing, all the engaging plates each has a pivot hole, a square hole is provided between the engaging plates with wider spacings and the engaging plates with narrower spacings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1999
    Inventor: Ching-Rong Liu
  • Patent number: 5961249
    Abstract: A lockable and removable barrier assembly (10) includes a post (32) which is removably mounted in a sleeve (12). The bottom end (32B) of the post is mounted in the top end (12A) of the sleeve such that a securing opening (14) of the sleeve is aligned with a securing opening (35) of the post. A securing mechanism (42) is located in the inner chamber (32C) of the post. The securing mechanism includes a securing lever (52) which is pivotably mounted at the bottom end (52B) to a mounting bracket (44). The lever includes a securing lug (58) which extends through a securing opening in the post and sleeve to secure the post in position in the sleeve. The top end (52A) of the lever is held in the secured position by a lock (60) which extends through a hole in the end of the lever and through a hole in the locking bracket (48) mounted on the sidewall of the post in the inner chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1999
    Assignee: Board of Trustees operating Michigan State University
    Inventors: Dennis R. Hansen, Clarence M. Hansen
  • Patent number: 5947632
    Abstract: A water-borne road marking paint is characterized in that incorporated within the paint are particles of a solid polymer or inorganic compound, which are capable of absorbing water. Preferred particles are ion exchange resin beads. Incorporation of such particles either during or immediately after application of the paint results in an accelerated speed of drying of the paint on the road.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Assignee: Rohm and Haas Company
    Inventors: Marico Giuseppe Pirotta, Angelo Sanfilippo, Andrew Paul Trapani
  • Patent number: 5938370
    Abstract: Safety barriers for directing and separating traffic on roads, highways and construction sites which include through-holes or passageways for animals to pass through. The through-holes or passageways are configured so that distal edges of the through-hole or passageway openings downstream from traffic flow are obtusely angled with respect to adjacent sides of the barriers, and thereby able to deflect vehicles which might strike the barriers at the openings. The through-holes or passageways allow small animals to pass through the barriers and thereby escape being struck by vehicles. The through-holes or passageways can include sloped bottoms to prevent animals from nesting therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Inventor: Michael S. Gzybowski
  • Patent number: 5933095
    Abstract: A traffic beacon, which can be used as a guiding device, particularly for street traffic, has a top member which is provided with warning or informative signs. The top member flips over when a vehicle drives over it. The lower end of the top member is connected via a tilting joint to a foot plate or directly to the street surface. Each tilting joint is provided with a spring-loaded locking device, a first stop holding the top member in the vertical position and a second stop serving as a locking device for the top member in a prone position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1999
    Inventor: Wilhelm Junker
  • Patent number: 5927896
    Abstract: An inertial barrier system is provided which is comprised of inertial barriers formed of two modules, each of them being differently sized and being adapted to stack one upon the other. An interlocking geometry on each of the mating ends of modules assists in obtaining a secure stacking arrangement, and also assists in varying the volumetric capacity of each of the two modules. Thus, when the smaller of the two modules is the upper module, facing upwardly so that its volumetric capacity is available for filling by a particulate ballasting material, a lighter weight barrier is obtained. On the other hand, when the two modules are inverted, and the larger one is the upper module, its greater volumetric capacity ensures that, once filled by the ballasting material, a heavier barrier will result. Advantageously, each module is sized to ensure a barrier of the proper weight when it is placed in the position of the upper module and is properly filled by a worker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1999
    Inventor: David C. Gertz
  • Patent number: 5917326
    Abstract: The guidance system of the invention includes at least two spaced, permanently magnetized regions that each produce a magnetic field. The two permanently magnetized regions can be provided at either side of another region that produces a magnetic field of less intensity than the permanently magnetized regions, and in one embodiment, the former region produces no magnetic field. The system may also include portable means for detecting the magnetic fields produced by the permanently magnetized regions, and that sensor may be mounted to a cane for use by a person. In another embodiment, the permanently magnetized regions contrast with either each other or the region that produces a magnetic field of less intensity, or have different surface characteristics, or both.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1999
    Assignee: Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Bernard A. Gonzalez, Richard L. Patten
  • Patent number: 5908262
    Abstract: A basally adhered, self-recovering traffic lane delineator has a cylindrical post made of flexible material, having the air outlet and inlet on the center of its upper surface, and a supplementary support panel placed and adhered underneath the post. The support panel supports a lower part of the post and is adhered on the ground. Owing to its small package volume, the delineator is easy to move and safeguard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 1, 1999
    Inventor: Eui Sig Ahn
  • Patent number: 5908263
    Abstract: A void-forming preform for installing a light fixture in a pavement, such as a poured concrete slab, or other structure comprises an upper chamber for receiving the light fixture, a ledge for supporting the light fixture, and a lower chamber for holding a length of wiring entering the lower chamber through a port. In a further embodiment, adjustable standoffs are formed in the bottom of the preform. The standoffs may be bent down to provide support for the preform on a pavement base prior to forming the pavement, and allow easy and fine adjustment of the height of the preform in relation to the final grade of the pavement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 1, 1999
    Assignee: Concrete Paving Innovations LLC
    Inventors: Thomas Patrick Conners, Eric Petrilla
  • Patent number: 5899628
    Abstract: A road anti-dazzle device that is installed on a safety island to prevent car lights from stimulating drivers' eyes so as to avoid possible road accidents. The device includes a cylinder made of high-density polyethylene materials. The cylinder has a plurality of longitudinal adjacent curved faces that have turbulent functions to enhance the cylinder's resistance to wind pressure. The cylinder has an elongated slot on a bottom portion thereof. A bolt is passed through a securing disk and into the bottom end of the cylinder. The bolt passes out from the elongated slot so that a circumferential flange of the securing disk presses against the bottom portion of the cylinder. A long-handle spanner is used to extend into a through hole at an upper end of the cylinder to lock the bolt into a threaded hole in the ground. The cylinder is firmly positioned on the ground by the securing disk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 4, 1999
    Inventor: Chang Pei-Chi
  • Patent number: 5895169
    Abstract: A removable and collapsible barricade post assembly for the restriction of vehicular traffic. The barricade post assembly has a novel base assembly that allow the post assembly to be removed from its mounting bracket which is normally permanently affixed to the ground. Alternatively, the post assembly can remain attached to its mounting bracket while being lowered to allow the passage of vehicular traffic. The barricade post assembly has a number of security features to restrict the unauthorized removal or collapsing of the barricade post. A cover assembly to enhance security and to provide weather protection for the barricade post assembly is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1999
    Assignee: Carl David Holm
    Inventors: Carl D. Holm, Kyle Anderson
  • Patent number: 5879103
    Abstract: The present invention relates to markers manufactured from skis. In accordance with the invention, the structure of a ski is modified to enable its use as an object which may be driven into soil or snow to designate the presence of underground objects, to delineate or identify a border or as a post for signage or fencing. The process of the invention relates to the modification of a ski by treating or removing the existing outer surfaces of a ski and providing new outer surfaces to the ski which may include graphics or notices specific to its new use. In order to inhibit the removal of a marker from soil or snow after placement, the marker may be provided with a barb system on its underground portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 9, 1999
    Inventor: Bob Baillie
  • Patent number: 5876020
    Abstract: A guardrail for a road or highway includes spaced uprights or posts on which are mounted deformable spacers which carry a longitudinal rail. The rail is formed by two wave shaped strips mounted together in a FIG. 8 profile by fastening ribs positioned in the open areas of the FIG. 8. The spacer has a straight lower portion that extends diagonally upward from the upright to the rail, a center portion fastened to the rail, and an upper portion curved to meet the upright. The spacer deforms to lift the rail upon impact. Additional tubular rails are provided on the uprights above the rail height.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1999
    Assignee: Autostrada del Brennero S.P.A.
    Inventor: Vittorio Giavotto