Distortable; E.g., Flexible Strand-type Barricade Patents (Class 49/34)
  • Patent number: 11826815
    Abstract: A tensioning apparatus for pulling together respective ends of a previously severed high-tension cable and, thus, repairing and restoring tension upon a unified cable includes a base member defining a pair of guide channels spaced apart along a common longitudinal axis. The tensioning apparatus includes a pair of tensioning arms positioned in the pair of guide channels, respectively, that is slidably movable between a relaxed configuration displaced from one another and a tensioned configuration proximate one another. Each tensioning arm includes a gripper member configured to clamp onto the respective ends of the severed cable. Hydraulic or pneumatic power is operatively coupled to the pair of tensioning arms for selectively actuating movement of the pair of tensioning arms along the guide channels between the relaxed and tensioned configurations. In other words, the ends of the severed cable are pulled tightly toward one another and joined together under tension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2023
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2023
    Inventor: Benjamin Wickham
  • Patent number: 11746486
    Abstract: A vehicle escape ramp arresting system that includes a narrowed internal width and includes housing connection that limits the peak initial load that can be applied to a metal tape during a vehicle impact with a net and allows a housing associated with the system to rotate about both the vertical and horizontal axes to aid in slowing an errant vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2021
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2023
    Assignee: IMPACT TECHNOLOGIES VI
    Inventors: Michael Kempen, Michael Brackin
  • Patent number: 11560678
    Abstract: A safety device that prevents tripping over forklifts or other material handling equipment includes a stand attachable to the horizontal fork and a pole of adjustable length extending upward. The device further includes a retractable barrier extending from the top of the pole across to the vertical mast of the forklift. The device preferably incorporates magnets which attach it to an idle forklift as described, and also attach the collapsed device to other portions of the vehicle when in use moving goods. This keeps the device conveniently available for use when the forklift is idle. And when the barrier is erected, nearer eye level, well above the floor, despite the forks sticking out in the aisle, persons passing by are much more likely to notice the forks and step around them.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2023
    Inventor: Montserrat Llobet
  • Patent number: 10807836
    Abstract: The invention discloses a wind protection anchoring system for a bridge crane and a method, wherein the system comprises four wind protection pull rods mounted on the bridge crane and four ground wind protection foundations corresponding to the four wind protection pull rods; the wind protection pull rod comprises a pull rod body, a pull rod nut, a driving device and a lock pin; the pull rod nut is connected to the pull rod body with threads thereon and mounted on the bridge crane; the top end of the pull rod body is fixedly provided with a driven device and the bottom end is connected to a lock pin; a lock pin fixing groove is formed on the ground wind protection foundation, at which mounted a fixing plate opened with a first opening and a second opening; the driving device is driven by the wind protection anchoring control module to enable the pull rod body to descend and enter into the lock pin fixing groove through the second opening, and enable the pull rod body to ascend and being blocked by the first o
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2020
    Assignees: QINGDAO PORT INTERNATIONAL CO., LTD., QINGDAO NEW QIANWAN CONTAINER TERMINAL CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Liangang Zhang, Minghui Zheng, Jiemin Yang, Wei Zhang, Wangyang Liu, Yanchun Wang, Zhaofu Wang
  • Patent number: 9091091
    Abstract: An energy absorbing sports board assembly that is not fixed to the floor of the arena but is allowed to move relative to the arena floor. The system utilizes vertical and horizontal tension to return the structure to its original position after deflection from impact from within the playing surface of the sports arena. The bottom portion, which is covered with a dasher board, rotates relative to the see-through material making up the top portion (glass). Because the sports board system is not attached to the floor of the arena, hockey players sliding along the ice during a hockey game are protected from concussion and paralyzing injuries to a greater extent than current systems which are fixed to the arena floor. The flexible connection between panels allows one or more panels to slide outward from the playing surface on impact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2015
    Inventors: Dean L Sicking, Cody S. Stolle
  • Patent number: 8875440
    Abstract: The present invention is a safety barrier for providing safety to forklifts while loading boxcars. The safety barrier includes a stationary structure attached to a barrier structure via a linking structure. The stationary structure comprises a number of bollards and the linking structure comprises a first portion and a second portion for attaching to the bollards. The barrier structure comprises a barrier end mounted to the linking structure by way of support posts, a pair of weighted ends attached to the linking structure by way of support posts. The barrier structure is rotatably mounted upon the linking structure such that barrier structure articulates between a deployed position and a non-deployed position to ensure safety to forklifts during loading procedures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Inventors: Jose Duran, Antonio Roa
  • Publication number: 20140245665
    Abstract: A method for covering an end of a housing for an engine. A cover is positioned relative to the end of the housing for the engine. The cover comprises a structure, a flange comprised of a deformable material extending from the structure around a circumference of the structure, and a retaining feature configured to extend from a middle portion of the structure such that the retaining feature and the flange form a channel configured to receive the end of the housing. The cover is moved in a direction towards the end of the housing for the engine such that the retaining feature extends into an inlet of the engine through an opening of the housing to form an interference fit between the retaining feature and a portion of an interior surface of the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2014
    Publication date: September 4, 2014
    Applicant: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Rick Earl Sparks, Shelby T. Dobbs
  • Patent number: 8595975
    Abstract: Gateway for providing controlled access from an entrance point to an exit point, having two wall elements defining a corridor in between the wall elements, and having a movable close off element or elements that have an open position and a closed position, whereby in the open position the corridor between the entrance point and the exit point provides a free passageway, and whereby in the closed position the corridor is closed off and passage from the entrance point to the exit point is prevented, wherein the movable close off elements or elements is/are embodied as at least one flexible band movable from within a wall element to at least in part outside that wall element, whereby in the open position the flexible band(s) is/are substantially rectilinear and positioned inside the wall element, and whereby in the closed position the flexible band(s) is/are bent to extend at least in part outside the wall element towards the other wall element to close up the passageway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Royal Boon Edam International B.V.
    Inventor: Niels van de Water
  • Publication number: 20130239482
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for remotely blocking a cavity of a component of an energized electrical transmission system. A protector has a blocking part for blocking the cavity of the component. The protector has a hotstick connector. A dielectric hotstick has an engagement part such as a hook at a remote end of the dielectric hotstick. The hook may be removably connected to the external point of attachment for remote installation of the blocking part blocking the cavity within a component, such as a piece of equipment or support structure. The blocking part may be remotely installed blocking the cavity using a dielectric hotstick operated by a user who is in a position outside a safe Limit of Approach. The blocking part may comprise a compressible material such as rubber or memory foam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2012
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Inventors: Leo MORIN, Keith I. YEATS, Martin S. NILES, Casey Douglas MERRILLS, Edmond LEROUZIC
  • Patent number: 8475077
    Abstract: A nonlethal barrier system includes a first base having a frame, a shaft and a brake. The brake includes a stationary magnet physically coupled to the frame such that the shaft passes through the stationary magnet. Further, the brake includes an adjustable magnet that creates a magnetic field with the stationary magnet, where the strength of the magnetic field is alterable by rotating the adjustable magnet. A slab physically coupled to the shaft is disposed in the magnetic field. A net is furled around the shaft of the first base such that when an external force is applied to the net, the shaft of the first base rotates and unfurls at least a portion of the net. The slab applies a resistance, based on the strength of the magnetic field, to the shaft of the first base to control the rate at which the net unfurls from the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Inventor: Terry Howell
  • Publication number: 20130064480
    Abstract: One embodiment relates to an instant closure mechanism comprising first and second flat, strip like sealing structures having a first orientation, first and opposing second ends; first and opposing second edges; a first pivot member dividing the sealing structures into an first and second portions, and a contour including at least one curved portion having a large gradual radius intersecting at least one of the first end and the second end. At least two second pivot members having an orientation perpendicular to the first orientation; a tab member enabled to pivot from a first flat position to a second bent position, and a sealing member coupled to the tab member via the horizontal pivot member. The sealing members are joined, providing a sealing interface, and whereby pivoting the tab member imparts a deformation of at least one of the two sealing structures resembling the contour of the first pivot members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventor: Vishaal B. Verma
  • Patent number: 8240947
    Abstract: A barrier for arresting a vehicle. The barrier includes a net spanning an area through which the vehicle may pass, an anchor coupled to the net, a support arm arranged on one side of the area through which the vehicle may pass, a raising/lowering mechanism for raising and lowering the support arm, and a release mechanism arranged on the support arm, the release mechanism having an upper and a lower protrusion forming an interior space to accommodate a member coupled to the net, and the member and the release mechanism become uncoupled upon application to the net of at least a predetermined threshold force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Smith & Wesson Security Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew A. Gelfand, Eddie N. Barnes, Ronald Lee Childers, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8118516
    Abstract: An energy absorbing system having a stanchion, a linearly extendable energy absorber coupled to the stanchion, a net coupled to the energy absorber, wherein the net transfers force to the energy absorber, and a securing mechanism that maintains tension between the net and the energy absorber until acted upon by tensile forces of at least a minimum threshold force, wherein at least a portion of the system is retractable into the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: Smith & Wesson Security Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew A. Gelfand, Joseph Vellozzi, John S. Paner, Norman D. Mackenzie, Shubin Ruan, D. Lance Bullard, Jr., Dean C. Alberson
  • Patent number: 8001724
    Abstract: A rotating barrier having a rotating arm assembly has at least one blocking arm which is formed at least over part of its length by a resiliently flexible core piece and is provided with an outer sheath.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: Skidata AG
    Inventors: Gregor Ponert, Thomas Grasmann
  • Publication number: 20110162280
    Abstract: A portable, extensible, and standalone security delimiter, comprising a multiplicity of portable towers with a multiplicity of links pivotally interconnected, forming a lattice structure that couple the multiplicity of portable towers with one another to enable the security delimiter expand out from a compact collapsed state to a selectably expanded operational state along a reciprocating span axis. The security delimiter further includes a latch mechanism that locks the security delimiter in the selectably expanded operational state at a desired longitudinal span, along the reciprocating span axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2010
    Publication date: July 7, 2011
    Inventor: Jia Hong Yu
  • Patent number: 7901155
    Abstract: In order to stop a moving vehicle without injury to occupants, a vehicle barrier is provided having a pair of platforms disposed on opposite sides of a roadway, and a capture net extending across the roadway between the platforms. Each platform has a rotatably mounted spool attached to a different end of the net, and a dual acting extension-compression shock absorber pivotally mounted to the spool, such that when the force or energy of an impacting vehicle on the net is applied to the shock absorbers, via rotation of the spools. Rotation of spools operate the shock absorbers in compression, and if needed, in extension. In railroad crossing application, two of the vehicle barriers are provided on either side of the railroad tracks to prevent vehicles from crossing the railroad tracks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Taylor Devices, Inc.
    Inventor: John C. Metzger
  • Patent number: 7832957
    Abstract: A removable barricade system. The system having a first sleeve to be affixed to a first bollard, a second sleeve to be affixed to a second bollard, and a barricade attached to the first and second sleeves. The barricade blocks the area between the first and second bollards.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Universal Safety Response, Inc.
    Inventor: Matthew A. Gelfand
  • Patent number: 7785031
    Abstract: A heavy duty ground retractable automobile barrier for a railroad crossing. Concrete bunkers are placed at each side of a roadway. An upstanding concrete-filled steel pipe fixed in each bunker has a sleeve for rotational and axial movement. Shock absorbers are mounted on each sleeve. A net extends across the road and is attached to the opposite ends of the shock absorbers. Collision of an automobile with the net creates tensile forces in the net. The shock absorbers expand while rotating about the pipe's axis in response to tensile forces from the net that meet or exceed a minimum threshold. Forces from the net pass through the axis of the steel pipe. The net is stored in a pit transverse the roadway parallel to the railroad tracks and is raised and lowered as appropriate. The net includes a cable that extends across the road in a wave pattern, having peaks, valleys and midpoints, wherein tangents of the wave midpoints are at least 90 degrees from tangents of the peaks and valleys.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Assignee: Universal Safety Response, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Vellozzi, Matthew A. Gelfand, John S. Paner, Norman D. Mackenzie, Shubin Ruan, D. Lance Bullard, Jr., Dean C. Alberson
  • Patent number: 7690859
    Abstract: In order to stop a moving vehicle without injury to occupants, a vehicle barrier is provided having a pair of platforms disposed on opposite sides of a roadway, and a capture net extending across the roadway between the platforms. Each platform has a rotatably mounted spool attached to a different end of the net, and a dual acting extension-compression shock absorber pivotally mounted to the spool, such that when the force or energy of an impacting vehicle on the net is applied to the shock absorbers, via rotation of the spools. Rotation of spools operate the shock absorbers in compression, and if needed, in extension. In railroad crossing application, two of the vehicle barriers are provided on either side of the railroad tracks to prevent vehicles from crossing the railroad tracks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: Taylor Devices, Inc.
    Inventor: John C. Metzger
  • Patent number: 7472943
    Abstract: A pane arrangement for closing an opening in the outer shell of the motor vehicle, has a closed position tightly closing the opening, and an open position partially clearing the opening. A flexible pane is connected without hinges to the vehicle to seal the opening. At least a first partial region of the pane is permanently connected to the outer shell of the vehicle, and at least a second partial region of the pane can be bent out of the closed position by deformation of the pane. Similarly, a body element of a motor vehicle with contains a flexible plate which is connected to the vehicle without hinges, at least a first partial region of the plate being permanently connected to the outer vehicle shell, and at least a second partial region of the plate being able to be bent away from the outer vehicle shell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Assignee: Webasto AG
    Inventor: Peter Oberhaus
  • Patent number: 7441983
    Abstract: An energy absorbing system. The system includes two anchors, a net mechanically coupled thereto and spanning a roadway, and a first raising/lowering arm arranged on one side of the roadway. The first raising/lowering arm mechanically coupled to and supporting an upper portion of the net via a first upper frangible tensioner and mechanically coupled to and supporting a lower portion of the net via a first lower frangible tensioner. A second raising/lowering arm arranged on another side of the roadway, the second raising/lowering arm mechanically coupled to and supporting an upper portion of the net via a second upper frangible tensioner and mechanically coupled to and supporting a lower portion of the net via a second lower frangible tensioner. The first and second upper and first and second lower frangible tensioners decouple from the net upon application of a predetermined force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Assignee: Universal Safety Response, Inc.
    Inventor: Matthew Gelfand
  • Patent number: 7384211
    Abstract: Cable crash barrier apparatus precludes unwanted ingress and egress and electronically monitors breaches. Substantial thickness of the cable provides mechanical integrity resistant to, for example, a 400 lb. vehicle traveling at speeds up to at least about 52 miles per hour, while flexibility protects a central conducting member effective for forming a low-voltage circuit, the cable being supported by a plurality of anchoring members and not detracting from overall aesthetic of the area being circumnavigated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2008
    Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: William Ah-Min Wong
  • Patent number: 7374362
    Abstract: In order to stop a moving vehicle without injury to occupants, a vehicle barrier is provided having a pair of platforms disposed on opposite sides of a roadway, and a capture net extending across the roadway between the platforms. Each platform has a rotatably mounted spool attached to a different end of the net, and a dual acting extension-compression shock absorber pivotally mounted to the spool, such that when the force or energy of an impacting vehicle on the net is applied to the shock absorbers, via rotation of the spools. Rotation of spools operate the shock absorbers in compression, and if needed, in extension. In railroad crossing application, two of the vehicle barriers are provided on either side of the railroad tracks to prevent vehicles from crossing the railroad tracks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Assignee: Tayco Developments, Inc.
    Inventor: John C. Metzger
  • Publication number: 20080060271
    Abstract: Devices for arresting a wheeled vehicle with rubber tires, comprising elongated flexible member (11) such as strips, mats, cables or chains disposed along the direction of motion and adapted to wrap around the tires using a tire attaching means (14) such as barb, spike or adhesive, the tire attaching means being fixed to the proximal end of the flexible member with respect to the vehicle's motion, and an arresting means (16) such as a rod attached to the distal end of the flexible member and adapted to interfere with the vehicle motion. The spikes may be anchoring in the tire and the cable or chain may be strong enough to tear the tires. The devices may be disposed in a flat housing with movable cover for allowing free passage of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2005
    Publication date: March 13, 2008
    Inventors: Ofer Beniamin, Dvir Arkin, Elyakim Reshef, Moshe Shani, Mordehay Yardeny, Avraham Atiias, Moshe Israel Granoi, Joseph Cohen, David Ben-Harosh
  • Patent number: 7178790
    Abstract: A stanchion has three tapes arranged in spaced relation along the upstanding post for controlling pedestrian traffic. Each stanchion/post has four guide grooves that extend the entire length of the post. Each stanchion is of annular cross section having an inner or inside surface adapted to receive a cylindrical spool around which is wound the individual tape or line. The free end of each tape has a locking element of triangular configuration adapted to be received in the guide groove of an adjacent post. The spools serve to retract each tape so as to provide continuous tension in the tape that is deployed or extended between its associated stanchion and another such post or stanchion. Each tape extends through a rectangular slot provided for this purpose at vertically spaced locations along the post/stanchion. Corresponding locations in the adjacent guide grooves of each post are provided with fittings that form stops for tapes from other stanchions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2007
    Inventor: Ricardo Augusto de Lorenzo
  • Patent number: 7014388
    Abstract: An anti-vehicle security system that includes a truss assembly formed with a plurality of monolithic stanchions. A container having a hinged door is fixed on the truss assembly. The system also includes two spaced-apart guides that extend from within the container to a portion of the truss assembly in ground contact. A gravitationally deployable restraining device, which may be stored in and deployed from the container, includes sleeves, clips and keepers to deploy the restraining device to snare a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Inventor: Michael Van Bibber
  • Patent number: 6997637
    Abstract: Roadway barrier system and method are disclosed for decelerating a moving vehicle in a controlled manner and for retaining the decelerated vehicle. A net or mesh of the roadway barrier system receives and captures the moving vehicle. The net or mesh is secured to anchors by energy absorbing straps. The energy absorbing straps deploy under a tensional load to decelerate the moving vehicle, the straps providing a controlled resistance to the tensional load over a predefined displacement or stroke to bring the moving vehicle to rest. Additional features include a sacrificial panel or sheet in front of the net that holds up the net or mesh while deflecting vehicles that collide only tangentially with the roadway barrier system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
    Inventors: William C. Schneider, P. James Locke
  • Patent number: 6969050
    Abstract: A crowd control stanchions having an extendible tape in which a weighted pulley system rather than a spring mechanism is used to maintain tape tension when the tape is extended and to retract the tape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2005
    Inventor: Hugh G Loebner
  • Patent number: 6935059
    Abstract: A crime scene fence post having a post base and an elongated post. The top end of the post has a lead-in notch, a slit, and a slot concatenated along the longitudinal axis of the post for easy installation and hold of a crime scene fence tape. The bottom end of the post has a tenon and the center of the post base has a mortise so that the post and the post base can be joined together to form a self-supported crime scene post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2005
    Inventor: Hungkun James Chang
  • Patent number: 6845589
    Abstract: A gate for controlling passage through an opening including a first support located on one side of the opening, a second support located on the other side of the opening, at least one elongate member, having a first and a second end, extendable across the opening between the first and second support; and a control for releasing the at least one elongate member to whereby enable passage through the opening and drawing in the elongate member to thereby restrict passage through the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2005
    Assignee: Matilda Products Ltd.
    Inventors: Ian Reginald Thompson, Ralph Tony Sarich
  • Patent number: 6598260
    Abstract: A liquid barrier system for protecting selected areas of flooring from liquid flow. The liquid barrier system includes a pair of end assemblies adapted for abutting a surface of a floor, and an elongate barrier assembly having two ends, each one of the barrier assembly ends being coupled to an associated one of the end assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2003
    Inventor: Michael D. Sharpe
  • Patent number: 6543185
    Abstract: A revolving door (1) comprising at least two operating sashes (2, 3) and at least three arc-shaped side walls (4, 5, 6), arranged opposite one or several entrance passages (7, 8) or exit passages (9, 10) at the drum periphery. The door is characterised in that it comprises a control mechanism acting on the operating sashes (2, 3) for extending or retracting the arc-shaped lateral walls (4, 5, 6) which open or close access to the passages. The door is applicable in particular to passenger traffic in airports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2003
    Assignee: Pentagon Management Limited
    Inventor: Jean-Marie Borelli
  • Patent number: 6485225
    Abstract: Throughway barrier apparatus comprises a pair of housings (51, 52; 151, 152) to be sited one to each side of a throughway (58). Each housing is provided with an upstanding surface (53, 54) of magnetic material, the two surfaces (53, 54) facing one another. A movable device (65) is magnetically coupled to each upstanding surface, and drive means (60) are arranged to move the magnetically coupled device upwardly and downwardly of the surface (53, 54). A barrier element such as a chain, cable, boom or the like extends across the throughway (58), the barrier element (55; 155a, 155b) being in use connected to the two said movable devices (65) for movement therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Inventor: Joseph Peter William Baker
  • Patent number: 6382869
    Abstract: An above-grade trafficway barrier adapted to arrest heavy vehicles, with an obstruction member extending between opposite sides of the trafficway, and controlled by its known mass deposed upon the grade level and preferably by spaced inertia blocks deposed at opposite sides of the trafficway, the known mass not to exceed the strength of the obstruction member and coupling thereof regardless of the vehicle mass. Impact force being gradually applied and dissipated by the known mass through a lever system with simultaneous roll, turn and sliding movements of said spaced masses; whereby the obstruction member is not subjected to greater force exerted by the impacting vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Inventor: Harry D. Dickinson
  • Patent number: 6370821
    Abstract: A flexible gate is disclosed which comprises a plurality of segments. The segments may be connected by at least one coupling. When the flexible gate is acted on by a force, the flexible gate may flex. When the force is no longer present, the flexible gate may return to a substantially straight position. The segments may be removed or added as needed to repair broken segments or to adjust the length of the flexible gate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Inventors: David W. McCord, Joseph R. Pace, Joseph A. Pace
  • Patent number: 6349503
    Abstract: A flexible barrier system is described that can be lowered or raised from a remote location using an accompanying remote control device which is either lockable or not lockable. The motor and mechanics used to raise and lower the chain are modular for easy repair and replacement, and enclosed in a protective covering in order to protect them from damage or tampering.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2002
    Assignee: IJOT Development, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael A. Gompertz, Klaus Silbermann, Arthur B. Dawson
  • Patent number: 6335074
    Abstract: A thermal insulation panel exhibits little or no warping due to temperature differences between different portions of the panel. The panel comprises insulation material and an envelope for encapsulating the insulation material. The envelope comprises a base member and a cover member. The cover member is supported by the base member in a floating and sealing engagement with the base member. The cover member can slide relative to the base member to compensate for differential thermal expansion effects on the respective base member and cover member. In an alternative embodiment the cover member is adapted to be exposed to a temperature significantly below the temperature to which the base member is exposed. The cover member is formed of a metal having a low coefficient of thermal expansion to compensate for differential thermal expansion effects in the respective base member and cover member. The cover member and the base member are joined to provide the envelope with a hermetic seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2002
    Assignee: Praxair Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Theodore Hall Gasteyer, III, Gary Dee Lang
  • Patent number: 6312188
    Abstract: There is disclosed a device and associated method for impeding the motion of a land vehicle travelling along a pathway on a terrain surface. First and second supports are positioned at first and second sides of the pathway, respectively, each capable of being actuated from a compressed condition to an extended condition. A propulsion system is effective to actuate the supports. A barrier extends between the supports at a mean first height that is effective to permit passage of a vehicle when the supports are compressed and supported by each support at a mean second height effective to impede passage of the vehicle when the supports are extended. When the supports are compressed, vehicles pass over the barrier unimpeded. When the supports are extended, the barrier impedes the motion of a vehicle travelling along the pathway. At least one deceleration cable mechanically couples the barrier to a brake system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: John N. Ousterhout, John P. Marcotullio, David A. Edmonds, Randel L. Hoskins
  • Patent number: 6279276
    Abstract: A protective system for overhead doors on loading dock platforms for use in connection with a pair of pipe bollards permanently erected at each of the sides and in front of the door. The system includes a pair of net securing devices each having a mounting bracket allowing the assembly to be attached to the door, a variable linkage, and a bollard collar for fitting over the existing pipe bollard when the door comes down. A spring loaded bracket in connection with the bollard collar and variable linkage allows a netting connected between the bollard collars to move for a distance until the bollard collar abuts the pipe bollard to preclude damage to the door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2001
    Inventor: Paul James Knoll
  • Patent number: 6192627
    Abstract: A flexible barrier system is described that can be lowered or raised from a remote location using an accompanying remote control device which is either lockable or not lockable. The motor and mechanics used to raise and lower the chain are modular for easy repair and replacement, and enclosed in a protective covering in order to protect them from damage or tampering.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2001
    Assignee: IJOT Development Inc.
    Inventors: Michael A. Gompertz, Arthur B. Dawson, Klaus Silbermann
  • Patent number: 6135190
    Abstract: A remote-controlled mechanical device is described with a winding mechanism configured for preventing backwinding. The barrier can be lowered or raised from a remote location using an accompanying remote control device. The motor and mechanics used to raise and lower the chain are modular for easy repair and replacement, and enclosed in a protective covering in order to protect them from damage or tampering. The motor can be operated by alternating current or direct current to provide the user with flexibility and allow the barrier to be operated either by direct wire to an electrical source or by one or more batteries or recharging solar cells, and used in remote places where there is no access to electrical power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Assignee: IJOT Development, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael A. Gompertz, Art B. Dawson
  • Patent number: 6062765
    Abstract: The present invention to provides a rapidly deployable system and method for arresting the movement of a vehicle with minimal injury to the vehicle or its occupants. The invention provides a system which applies a braking force which varies according to vehicle weight and speed by utilizing a series of frangible rods for dissipating the energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Assignee: John A. Dotson
    Inventor: John Arthur Dotson
  • Patent number: 6035921
    Abstract: A gate control apparatus includes a gate support member, an arm pivotally mounted thereto and having gate members connected to the arm, a flexible line connected to the arm, a line takeup for carrying the flexible line, and an actuator for actuating the line takeup. The gate is opened and closed by the arm either being pivotally lowered to open the gate or pivotally raised to close the gate. A radio transmitter is used to send a signal to a radio receiver which energizes a motor to either rotate a shaft and spool one way or another which either takes up the flexible line to pivotally raise the arm which closes the gate or lets out the flexible line to pivotally lower the arm which opens the gate. The user can operate this gate control apparatus without ever having to leave one's vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Inventor: Darrel J. Minow
  • Patent number: 5993104
    Abstract: There is disclosed a transportable device and associated method for impeding the motion of a land vehicle travelling along a pathway on a terrain surface. First and second supports are positioned at first and second sides of the pathway, respectively, each capable of being actuated from a compressed condition to an extended condition. A propulsion system is effective to actuate the supports. A barrier extends between the supports at a mean first height that is effective to permit passage of a vehicle when the supports are compressed and supported by each support at a mean second height effective to impede passage of the vehicle when the supports are extended. When the supports are compressed, vehicles pass over the barrier unimpeded. When the supports are extended, the barrier impedes the motion of a vehicle travelling along the pathway. At least one deceleration cable mechanically couples the barrier to a brake system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Assignee: Primex Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: John P. Marcotullio, David A. Edmonds, Randel L. Hoskins
  • Patent number: 5871038
    Abstract: A remote-controlled mechanical locking chain gate has an electrically controlled winding mechanism with a locking device to keep the chain tight and prevent the chain from loosening when pressure is applied to the chain thus putting it into a locked position. The chain gate can be lowered or raised from a remote location using an accompanying remote control device. The motor and mechanics used to raise and lower the chain are modular for easy repair and replacement, and enclosed in a protective covering in order to protect them from damage or tampering. The motor can be operated by alternating current or direct current to provide the user with flexibility and allow the gate to be operated either by direct wire to an electrical source or by one or more batteries or recharging solar cells, and used in remote places where there is no access to electrical power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1999
    Assignee: IJOT Development, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael A. Gompertz, Art B. Dawson
  • Patent number: 5829912
    Abstract: There is disclosed a transportable device for non-destructively impeding the motion of a land vehicle travelling along a pathway. First and second telescoping devices located on either side of the pathway support a barrier. When the telescoping supports are compressed, the vehicles pass over the barrier unimpeded. When the telescoping supports are extended, the barrier impedes the motion of a land vehicle. At least one deceleration cable mechanically couples the barrier to a braking system. The braking system applies a continuous deceleration force to the vehicle of typically less than 2 g, bringing the vehicle to a stop without damaging either the vehicle or vehicle occupants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Assignee: Primex Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: John P. Marcotullio, David A. Edmonds, Randel L. Hoskins
  • Patent number: 5816946
    Abstract: Portable safety system for isolating an on-deck batter during a baseball or softball game comprises one or more poles, a length of cord long enough to surround an on-deck area, structure to support the cord and a fastening system for fastening the ends of the cord to the poles or to each other. The safety system may be free-standing and entirely supported by poles, or partly supported by a backstop commonly found on baseball fields in addition to one or more poles. The poles may have holes, brackets, a spring loaded roller, or part of a hook and loop system to support the cord. The fastening system comprises hooks, hook and loop material, or similar structures. The poles also contain structural elements to help in securely wrapping the cord around the poles for storage and transport. The safety system is lightweight, portable, inexpensive, and easy to assemble and disassemble.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1998
    Inventor: Bennett S. Grossman
  • Patent number: 5752559
    Abstract: A wire gate control apparatus includes a base sleeve having an aperture near the top thereof and a longitudinal slot at the bottom thereof and further having a keeper biasedly mounted at the aperture, and further includes a plunger slidably disposed within the sleeve and having first and second apertures spaced apart and a horizontal slot disposed between the first and second apertures and adapted to engage the keeper to lock the plunger in predetermined place and having a detent adapted to slide within the longitudinal slot, and also includes an arm pivotally mounted near its bottom to a pair of brackets fixedly attached to the sleeve, and having wire-connecting member spaced along the length thereof. The detent contacts the arm to close the wire gate and moves out of contact with the arm to lower the arm and open the wire gate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1998
    Inventor: Darrel J. Minow
  • Patent number: 5653058
    Abstract: A railway gate arm assembly including a gate arm which is mounted to permit pivoting about a longitudinal axis when an external force is applied to the gate arm thereby causing the latter to swivel out of a vertical plane, and at least two torsion springs, one mounted on each side of the gate arm and having depending spring legs which engage against corresponding sides of the gate arm and bias the gate arm to a vertical position so if the gate arm is caused to swivel out of a vertical plane by an external force, it will be returned to the vertical plane by the depending spring legs when the external force is removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 5, 1997
    Assignee: Western-Cullen Hayes, Inc.
    Inventor: Jerry J. Zaimins
  • Patent number: 5649396
    Abstract: A semaphore type loading dock safety barrier for use across a vehicle passageway to prevent accidentally driving a vehicle off the end of the loading dock. A barrier mount is attached to a guidepost inside the loading dock doorway and is horizontally rotatable about a vertical axis. A rigid barrier arm is rotatably affixed to the barrier mount so that the barrier arm raises and lowers vertically in a semaphore arm fashion. The barrier arm is typically constructed from an I-beam or box beam and is of sufficient strength to resist vehicle impact. A receiving rest is attached to an opposite guidepost inside the loading dock doorway and is horizontally rotatable about a vertical axis and positioned to receive the free end of the barrier arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 22, 1997
    Inventor: Michael J. Carr