With Traffic Director Or Controller; E.g., One-way Patents (Class 49/49)
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Patent number: 8181392Abstract: An automatic gate arm damage prevention system includes a lift arm that is coupled to a lifting apparatus. The lift arm has an outer end, an upper side, a lower side, a first lateral side and a second lateral side. A channel extends into the outer end and the upper side so that the channel is bounded by the first and second lateral sides and the lower side. An elongated member has a first end and a second end. The first end is positioned in the channel. A pivot pin extends through the channel and through the elongated member and the lift arm to pivotally couple the elongated member to the lift arm. The second end is pivotable upwardly with respect to the lift arm.Type: GrantFiled: October 1, 2009Date of Patent: May 22, 2012Inventor: Raymond E. Farber
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Patent number: 8176684Abstract: Method, together with the devices implementing said method, for controlling the closing and opening movements of a movable barrier (103) so as to prevent a dangerous impact with an obstacle or crushing thereof, said movable barrier (103) comprising a closing edge having, positioned thereon, one or more sensors (108) connected to a first transceiver (27b) able to exchange a signal with a second fixed transceiver (27a) in communication with a control unit which manages the movement of the barrier (103), comprising a step defining for said signal a communications protocol consisting of more than two signal configurations (A, B, C, D).Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2005Date of Patent: May 15, 2012Assignee: Nice SpAInventor: Oscar Marchetto
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Patent number: 8176677Abstract: An automated guide rail apparatus includes a fixed wall that includes a pair of vertical supports attached to and extending upwardly from a floor surface and a horizontal support attached to the vertical supports. The fixed wall is positioned adjacent to a hazardous area. A movable wall is attached to the fixed wall and is movable laterally toward or extended away from the fixed wall to increase or decrease a combined length of the fixed and movable walls. The movable wall prevents access to the hazardous area when the movable wall is extended away from the fixed wall. A drive assembly is mounted on the fixed wall and moves the movable wall outwardly from the fixed wall when the drive assembly is actuated. An actuating assembly is in communication with the drive assembly to actuate the drive assembly when a hazardous condition is determined by the actuating assembly.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2008Date of Patent: May 15, 2012Inventor: Baron H. Blackmon, III
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Patent number: 8161681Abstract: A gate arm for a swing gate incorporates a release mechanism that releases the gate arm and therefore allows the gate to swing freely about its hinges when inwardly-directed pressure applied to the gate exceeds a threshold level. The gate arm also includes a spring-loaded pivot joint that applies pressure to the gate when the gate is operating normally and is in the closed position, and further works cooperatively with the release mechanism to prevent damage to the operator and gate arm when the gate is forced open.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2008Date of Patent: April 24, 2012Inventor: Michael T. Treihaft
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Patent number: 8127492Abstract: A barrier mechanism for providing selective access to a passageway on the floor of a lobby, room or pavilion. It utilizes a frame and carriage assembly thereon, a panel which is swivelable to selectively overlie and block the passageway, and an electric motor which powers the carriage assembly and moves the panel. A group of power components, including a driver operated by the motor and other linkages on the frame, provide simultaneous translating movement of the carriage assembly and panel and swiveling of the panel, synchronized to bring about a “wrap-around” effect to the latter. Optionally, the panel can be locked in either its blocking or its access position. Important safety features are incorporated in the mechanism, to prevent inadvertent injury to passageway personnel.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2009Date of Patent: March 6, 2012Inventors: Robert R. Hellman, Sr., Robert R. Hellman, Jr.
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Patent number: 8118517Abstract: A rubber manhole cover, suitable for attaching to a top of a metal manhole lid, includes at least two bonded layers of rubber material of differing properties, including a bottom layer of a first rubber material, and a top layer of vulcanized rubber material, the top and bottom layers functioning as a single unit.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2010Date of Patent: February 21, 2012Inventors: John Kelley, David Elder
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Patent number: 8118516Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 12, 2010Date of Patent: February 21, 2012Assignee: 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
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Patent number: 8112938Abstract: A controlled gate system is comprised of a barrier arm which is pivotally connected to a first fixed support. A motion detector is secured to a second fixed support spaced a predetermined distance from the first fixed support and in alignment therewith to create a restricted passageway with the barrier arm normally resting in an obstructing position within the passageway. The barrier arm is arrested at the obstructing position by a solenoid actuated latch which is disengaged by the motion detector. The arc of displacement of the barrier arm is also restricted to permit passage through the passageway in a single direction. Under certain conditions a controller will permit the barrier arm to be disengaged to permit passage in the passageway in opposed directions. The motion detector of the preferred embodiment is constituted by a further barrier arm.Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 2009Date of Patent: February 14, 2012Assignee: Les Ateliers Bolduc et Freres Inc.Inventors: René Bolduc, Yvan Mercier
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Publication number: 20120011774Abstract: A barrier gate comprising: a generally stationary barrier frame; a pivot member in communication with the barrier frame; a swing arm in communication with the pivot member, and rotatable with respect to the barrier frame; a barrier arm in fixed communication with the swing arm; an electro-magnet in fixed communication with one of the barrier frame and the swing arm, the electro-magnet is energizable and de-energizable; a strike plate in fixed communication the other of the barrier frame and the swing arm, and magnetically attachable to the electro-magnet when the electro-magnet is energized, and when the strike plate is magnetically attached to the electro-magnet the barrier gate is in a first position, when the swing arm is rotated generally about 90° from the first position the barrier gate is in an second position; at least one force acting on the swing arm such that the force tends to rotate the swing arm from the first position to the second position; where when the electro-magnet is energized and magnetType: ApplicationFiled: July 15, 2010Publication date: January 19, 2012Inventor: Roger R. Arnaud
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Patent number: 8096727Abstract: A temporary barricade in the form of a retractable post system. In one configuration, the post is lowered into the ground, such that the top of the post is flush with the ground surface, leaving an unobtrusive configuration that one can walk over, drive over, and so forth. In another configuration, however, the post can be pulled up from the ground, and with a moderate rotational twisting motion, locked into vertical position, thereby providing a strong barrier to traffic and other situations.Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 2007Date of Patent: January 17, 2012Inventors: Chris Parenti, Abel Gutierrez
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Patent number: 8087846Abstract: This application concerns traffic control devices, such as bollards, configured for storage of a bollard coupling adapted to extend between a bollard and an adjacent structure. Bollards are disclosed that comprise a body defining an interior body volume and a first aperture. A bracket fixedly attached to the body defines a second aperture. The bracket is configured to reversibly receive a bollard engaging member fixedly attached to an end portion of a bollard coupling. In a first position, at least a portion of the bollard engaging member extends through the first aperture, and in a second position, the portion of the bollard engaging member extends through the second aperture. A cap being releasably secured to the body provides access to the interior body volume and at least partially retains the bollard engaging member. Associated bollard arrangements and methods are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2009Date of Patent: January 3, 2012Inventor: James Ringelberg
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Publication number: 20110271593Abstract: Disclosed is a vehicle passage control device capable of suppressing damage and breakage of an opening/closing bar thereof to the minimum, and suppressing damage and the like of a vehicle to the minimum even if the vehicle collides with the opening/closing bar. The vehicle passage control device is a vehicle passage control device in which an opening/closing bar 12 that regulates passage of a vehicle is provided, the vehicle passage control device being installed at a passage gate of an entrance or exit of a toll road or the like. The vehicle passage control device performs opening/closing control for the opening/closing bar 12 to rotationally move and upspring obliquely upward in front in a passing direction of the vehicle. An inclined angle ? at which the opening/closing bar 12 rotationally moves and upsprings obliquely upward remains within a range from approximately 25 degrees to approximately 55 degrees with respect to a road surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 24, 2010Publication date: November 10, 2011Inventors: Shinichi Hayashida, Toshio Uchimaru, Yutaka Yamamoto
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Patent number: 8033053Abstract: A security barrier apparatus which may be used in conjunction with an existing security gate or may be used as a stand-alone security barrier gate. The system uses a passive restraining device comprising a bollard having at least one catch horn extending therefrom which engages a corresponding structure on the gate to restrain the gate when impacted.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 2006Date of Patent: October 11, 2011Assignee: Performance Development CorporationInventors: Joe W. Anderson, Victor J. Kaminsky, Thomas A. Lancaster, III, Douglas J. Hornstra, Michael W. Light, James C. Powers, Richard W. Schenk
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Patent number: 8020603Abstract: A blocking element for a gate used as a checkpoint includes a housing having a height, a support having a second height and arranged in the housing, a horizontally directed pivot axis furnished on the support, and a pair of blocking vanes each of which are in a form of a circle sector, wherein the pair of blocking vanes are mounted, by way of a tapering sector inner side of the blocking vanes and such that the blocking vanes can pivot about the horizontally directed pivot axis. A drive motor is connected to the blocking vanes on the pivot axis, wherein the drive motor in response to a signal, slides one of the blocking vanes into the other in a telescopic manner from a position which blocks a passage of the gate into a position, which opens the passage of the gate, and wherein the blocking vanes can be drawn apart from one another in order to again block the passage of the gate.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2006Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Magnetic Auto Control GmbHInventor: Thomas Bürgin
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Publication number: 20110192086Abstract: Composed of a board display attachment to the access lift-gate, placed close to the lift-gate, with the same dimensions (measurements), moving in synchrony. It has at least 3 hooks placed at an appropriate distance according to the situation where the advertisement boards attach. The attachment takes place by threading the hooks trough the perforations located at the top and center of the advertisement boards; locking them in place while allowing them free movement within a 90 degree range. The hooks are placed at different intervals (distances) from the operating mechanism.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 23, 2009Publication date: August 11, 2011Inventor: Jose Muñoz-Cruzado Sánchez
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Patent number: 7963069Abstract: A safety device for motorized pedestrian access passageways, comprising a movement and supporting mechanism of an oscillating access shutter, which includes an electric motor (30) for activating the shutter, and a mechanical control system, which uses a series of levers (12, 13, 14, 14?), associated with respective elastic elements (22, 25), and a pushing element (31), suitable for allowing the automatic opening of the passageway, in the case of a lack of power supply, due, for example, to an electric black-out; in particular, the position in which the shutter almost completely closes the access passageway is an unstable equilibrium position, which is maintained thanks to the action of an electric motor (30), with an incorporated reducer, which contrasts the opening movement of the shutter, and the pushing element (31), which intervenes in the opening, when the shutter is positioned for completely closing the passageway.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2006Date of Patent: June 21, 2011Assignee: Gunnebo Entrance Control S.p.A.Inventor: Tomaso Ropelato
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Publication number: 20110113690Abstract: Some methods include rotating a crossing gate actuator around a vertical swing pivot of a crossing gate mount, along a vertical swing path and into a down position to block a path such that a crossing gate coupled to the crossing gate actuator blocks the path, with a spring biased crossing gate release mechanism maintaining the crossing gate in a center position blocking the path and decoupling a bar segment from the crossing gate to decouple a spring from biasing the crossing gate into the center position such that the crossing gate is free to swing around a horizontal swing pivot, perpendicular to the vertical pivot, and out of the path.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 11, 2010Publication date: May 19, 2011Inventors: Edwin J. Luetzow, Karla Luetzow
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Patent number: 7901155Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 11, 2010Date of Patent: March 8, 2011Assignee: Taylor Devices, Inc.Inventor: John C. Metzger
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Patent number: 7900399Abstract: A start gate assembly for use by a racer when racing on a ground surface is provided with a moveable start gate frame that is pivotally attached to a foundation platform and a moving mechanism for placing the moveable start gate frame in a ready position where the ready position is of sufficient height to obstruct forward movement of the racer. A control device is further provided that regulates the movement of the moveable start gate frame from the ready position to a go position and a start switch that activates the control device to initiate the moving mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2007Date of Patent: March 8, 2011Inventors: Gary Williams, Phillip Layne
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Patent number: 7862252Abstract: A vehicle barrier system. The vehicle barrier system includes a base, an arm hingably mechanically coupled to the base, a raising/lowering mechanism in mechanical communication with the arm, and a cable supported by the arm, the cable mechanically coupled to first and second anchors placed on opposite sides of an area through which a vehicle may pass, and the raising/lowering mechanism moves the arm and the cable between a first position and a second position.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2006Date of Patent: January 4, 2011Assignee: Universal Safety Response, Inc.Inventors: Matthew A. Gelfand, Brad Grubb, Jon Jackson
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Patent number: 7845876Abstract: A race gate has a base and a start bar connected to the base, where the start bar has an elevated start position and a level finish position. A release mechanism interconnects the base and the start bar and retains the start bar in the start position. A controller governs the release mechanism. The controller may be programmable to measure a preset time period and a random time period.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2007Date of Patent: December 7, 2010Assignee: BISS Product Development LLCInventors: James M. Burry, Daniel R. Seymour
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Patent number: 7845877Abstract: An enhanced vehicle barrier system. The enhanced vehicle barrier system including bases located on opposite sides of an area through which a vehicle may pass, first and second arms hingably mechanically coupled to a base, first, second and third members, a raising/lowering mechanism, and a cable in mechanical communication with at least one of the first, second, and third members, the cable having connecting points located on opposite sides of the area through which a vehicle may pass, and wherein, in one position, at least portions of the first, second, and third members and the cable may be high enough to encounter a front of a vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2007Date of Patent: December 7, 2010Assignee: Universal Safety Response, Inc.Inventors: Matthew A. Gelfand, Brad Grubb
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Patent number: 7818920Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for a barrier gate designed to control vehicular travel through a passageway. The invention disclosed employs a barrier arm, a housing, a motor and transmission, a rotary encoder, and a torque limiter assembly. The torque limiter assembly comprises a hub, spindle, brake disk, rotor, and a gland nut. The torque limiter assembly is mounted to the motor and transmission as well as connected to the barrier arm. The torque limiter assembly provides sufficient friction to rotate the barrier arm and also protects the internal gears and linkages of the transmission and motor from costly repair/replacement by preventing any unwanted rotation. In the event an outside force rotates the barrier arm, the rotary encoder in cooperation with a controller instantly recognizes the position of the barrier arm and further acts as a limit switch to send a signal to the motor to stop when the barrier arm is in place.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2007Date of Patent: October 26, 2010Inventors: Lynn R. Causey, Roger D. Causey
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Publication number: 20100263281Abstract: Cantilever gates (10) in the form of parallelograms include first and second bars (40) and a toe board (140) extending between and pivotally mounted to first and second posts (20, 30) and moveable between closed and open positions. Gas struts (46) assist in moving the gate (10). A lock (60) in the form of a pivotal latch (62) holds the gate (10) in its open position. A slide receptor (80) slideably receives the second post (30) as the gate (10) moves from the open to the closed position and can be removably secured to a support surface mounting plate (82). A pair of cantilever gates (10) can have their respective second posts (30) slideably related.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 21, 2010Publication date: October 21, 2010Inventors: Richard B. Stoffels, James G. Sidla
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Patent number: 7814706Abstract: A safety system for use with a boom gate. The boom gate includes a boom and a boom operator for moving the boom between a down position and an up position. The safety system also has a boom deflection detector for detecting deflection of the boom, such as deflection caused by collision of the boom with a vehicle. A control system is provided for actuating the boom operator to move the boom to the up position whenever deflection is detected.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2006Date of Patent: October 19, 2010Assignee: State of Florida, Department of TransportationInventor: Louis A. Gamache
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Publication number: 20100223850Abstract: An entry/exit gate includes a case and a stop board is pivotably connected to the case and extends through a slot of the case. A driving unit is located in the case and pivots the stop board. A cap is pivotably connected to the case and located above the slot of the case. The cap is mounted to the stop board and is connected to a resilient member which provides a force to pull the stop board into the case. When the stop board is pivoted and extends out from the slot of the case, the top of the stop board pushes the inside of the cap so that the cap is pivoted and covers the gap between the stop board and the case. When the stop board is retracted into the case, the cap is pulled back by the resilient member.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 1, 2010Publication date: September 9, 2010Inventor: Hsin-Ta Chen
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Patent number: 7785031Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 6, 2003Date of Patent: August 31, 2010Assignee: 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
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Publication number: 20100192464Abstract: An obstacle device for vehicle driving experience is provided which includes a support arm (3) disposed outside a path (P) of a vehicle (V), a support rod (4) supported on the support part (3) and capable of swinging back and forth along the path (P), and an obstacle (5) attached to a tip of the support rod (4) and positioned within the path (P) of the vehicle (V), swing control means (30) being provided between the support part (3) and the support rod (4), the swing control means (30) making resistance to a return swing of the support rod (4) from a forward swing position to a rear larger than resistance to swinging of the support rod (4) to a front due to collision of the vehicle (V) with the obstacle (5). Thus, during vehicle driving experience, even if the vehicle collides with the obstacle, it is possible to mitigate the collision impact effectively and to place the obstacle at a fixed position easily and quickly after the collision.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 8, 2008Publication date: August 5, 2010Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.Inventor: Makoto Hirai
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Patent number: 7739834Abstract: Cantilever gates (10) in the form of parallelograms include first and second bars (40) and a toe board (140) extending between and pivotally mounted to first and second posts (20, 30) and moveable between closed and open positions. Gas struts (46) assist in moving the gate (10). A lock (60) in the form of a pivotal latch (62) holds the gate (10) in its open position. A slide receptor (80) slideably receives the second post (30) as the gate (10) moves from the open to the closed position and can be removably secured to the support surface mounting plate (82). A pair of cantilever gates (10) can have their respective second posts (30) slideably related.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 2007Date of Patent: June 22, 2010Assignee: Garlock Equipment CompanyInventors: Richard B. Stoffels, James G. Sidla
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Publication number: 20100115843Abstract: The invention relates to a gate for persons for cyclically opening a passage having at least one blocking element connected to a moveable carrier element and moveable from a blocking position blocking passage at a blocking site into a passage position allowing passage, having a blocking device for blocking the movement of the carrier element comprising at least one bar (18, 20) contacting a working surface (16) of the carrier element at least one contact point in a blockage position, the bar (18, 20) being moveable from the blockage position into an open position, the movement thereof at the contact point taking place in a first direction of motion, and the working surface (16) moving in a second direction of motion at the contact point when the carrier element moves.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 11, 2008Publication date: May 13, 2010Inventor: Thomas Gallenschuetz
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Publication number: 20100095593Abstract: A motorized bar barrier device, including a shaft (14) supporting the bar, a motor unit (12) for the rotation of the shaft and a unit (13) for offsetting the moment produced on the shaft by the weight of the bar. The offsetting unit (13) comprises a torsion spring (24) wrapped coaxially at the shaft and which has a first end (27) that is pushed by the rotation of the shaft to wind the spring when the shaft (14) is turned in a first direction starting from a neutral position and a second end (28) that is pushed by the rotation of the shaft to wind the spring when the shaft (14) is turned in a second opposite direction starting from the neutral position. This way, the system can provide offsetting of the moment produced by the weight of the bar in both the directions of rotation starting from the neutral position.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 5, 2008Publication date: April 22, 2010Applicant: Geniud S.p.AInventor: Mario Luca Mazzocchi
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Patent number: 7690859Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 10, 2008Date of Patent: April 6, 2010Assignee: Taylor Devices, Inc.Inventor: John C. Metzger
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Patent number: 7665929Abstract: A starting gate apparatus and method for use in bicycle races is provided. The starting gate includes a main platform, a plurality of gates connected to the main platform and a gate actuation arrangement to drive the gates from a bike stopping position to a bike releasing position. The gate actuation arrangement permits variations in at least one gate actuation parameter including an intermediate stopping position along a gate travel path, the driving force of the gate along the gate travel path, and/or an interval between initiation of an actuation sequence and actuation of the gate of the starting gate. Embodiments of the gate actuation arrangement permit a gate to independently act on an obstruction, provide for reversing, momentarily actuation of the gate during gate actuation or varying the duration or disposition of the interval of the gate actuation sequence.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 2007Date of Patent: February 23, 2010Assignee: ProStuff LLCInventors: Pierce Barker, III, Edmund W. Doherty, Jr., Roger Johns
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Publication number: 20100011665Abstract: Electro-mechanical and electronically controlled access devices are described for controlling access to a building, premises or area in a secure manner such that a subject who is deemed ineligible for access will be barred entry and may be optionally retained. The devices can contain multiple rotatable door panels, which can be positioned behind one another. The door panels can be controlled by mechanized arms or other control devices in order to control the passage through the device. The direction of flow through a device according to these embodiments is electronically controlled and may be changed at any point in time. At any instant in time, the flow through the device is unidirectional. Multiple devices can be stacked together to form clusters, which can be controlled according to traffic, time of day, or other factors.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 14, 2009Publication date: January 21, 2010Inventor: Robert Osann, JR.
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Patent number: 7641416Abstract: A vehicle barrier deployment system comprises a base member, at least two lifting members, at least one barrier member, and an actuation assembly. The lifting members are pivotally secured to the base member, and are operable to be selectively raised and lowered in a vertical direction relative to the base member. The at least one barrier member is in communication with the lifting members, and is configured to stop a moving vehicle when the lifting members are in a raised position. The actuation assembly is in communication with the lifting members, and is operable to selectively raise and lower the lifting members by moving at least a portion of each of the lifting members in a direction transverse to a traffic lane. The barrier member may comprise chains, a guardrail, or other structures. The system may be mobile or may be fixed (e.g., embedded in ground) in a particular location.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 2007Date of Patent: January 5, 2010Inventor: Gary Dale Miracle
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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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Patent number: 7607858Abstract: An enhanced security manhole cover is disclosed, comprising a frame, outer cover, inner cover, crossbar, saddle, eyebolt, and padlock. The inner cover, which closes the lower opening in a manhole, includes a detent in the top surface for receiving the eyebolt. The crossbar is positioned above the inner cover and engages the walls of the frame. The crossbar includes a threaded hole that aligns with the detent. The saddle, an upside down U-shaped member, is positioned over the crossbar and includes a slot for the eyebolt to partially extend through. The saddle may include a shoulder on the base, to protect the eyebolt. The eyebolt passes partially through the saddle and crossbar and threads into the bore. The shackle of the padlock passes through holes in the upright of the U-shaped saddle below the crossbar, locking the saddle in place. The upper cover closes the top of the frame.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2008Date of Patent: October 27, 2009Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Director, The National Security AgencyInventors: Gary S. Mosholder, Thomas Zuby
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Patent number: 7604430Abstract: The assembly of the mobile swing-gate is installed in the channel that is dug across the entire width of the road, and the sides of the excavation are reinforced by wall (5). The created recess is over-bridged by swing-gate (1). One side of swing-gate (1) is connected onto joint (2) that is fixed onto channel wall (5). The opposite side of swing-gate (1) is supported by support grate (3) that by its upper side leans against swing-gate (1) and by its lower side against the corner of wall (5). Steel rope (4) is attached at the upper side of the support grate. By pulling steel rope (4) the support grate (3) eludes bellow swing-gate (1) that remains without support at that side, rotates about joint (2) and falls into the channel, and in such a way a recess is opened in the road.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2005Date of Patent: October 20, 2009Inventor: Boris Pervan
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Patent number: 7581351Abstract: A speed barrier includes a heavy lower barrier and a lighter upper gate. The barrier and gate may normally be positioned to allow or to restrict passing of vehicles. The barrier is configured to receive and survive the main impact of a vehicle attempting to ram through the speed barrier. The gate and barrier are coupled to allow an extension or a retraction of the gate and barrier in unison. The barrier and gate are supported by left and right columns, and an upper end of the gate is supported by the columns when the gate and barrier are extended.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 2006Date of Patent: September 1, 2009Inventor: Christopher Lewis
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Patent number: 7563051Abstract: The invention discloses a vehicle barrier system (10) including a barrier (46) movable between an open position to allow vehicle access therethrough and a closed position which prevents vehicle access therethrough. Barrier (46) is attached to barrier supports (48, 50) at either end of barrier (46) with barrier supports (48, 50) being secured to a ground engaging slide plate (52). The ground engaging slide plate (52) will slide after a predetermined force is applied thereto by vehicle (102) impact with barrier (46) to absorb the impact energy of vehicle (102).Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2004Date of Patent: July 21, 2009Assignee: Tallwang Holdings Pty. Ltd.Inventors: Nigel Buckley, Paul Morris Deed, Zeljko Macher
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Patent number: 7551995Abstract: An access system for a vehicle includes a gateway module that connects to the vehicle data bus, and an interface system coupled to the gateway module via a gateway bus. The interface system is also coupled to a ramp control subsystem that operates to stow and deploy a ramp for providing wheelchair access to the vehicle. A door control subsystem is coupled to the vehicle data bus and operates in response to data signals sent over the vehicle data bus. The gateway module is configured to relay signals relating to the status of the ramp from the gateway bus to the vehicle data bus to coordinate operation of the door and the ramp.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 2007Date of Patent: June 23, 2009Assignee: The Braun CorporationInventors: Keith D. Heigl, Justin C. Gilmore, Andrew L. Henseleit
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Patent number: 7533494Abstract: A railroad grade crossing assembly including a programmable controller. In a preferred embodiment, the crossing assembly includes at least one camera for the purpose of visually monitoring the crossing assembly and/or the area around the assembly. In another preferred embodiment, the crossing assembly includes a communication link for remotely monitoring and/or controlling the assembly.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2003Date of Patent: May 19, 2009Inventor: Thomas J. Burke
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Publication number: 20090119997Abstract: A fixture includes a support structure having a flexible arm which carries an input device. The input device is in communication with a moveable vehicle barrier and controls its operation. The flexible arm flexes in response to an applied force so that the input device can move if it is engaged by a vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 9, 2007Publication date: May 14, 2009Inventor: Rob Jason Evans
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Patent number: 7524135Abstract: 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: June 6, 2008Date of Patent: April 28, 2009Assignee: Schram Management CompanyInventors: Clifford R. Mirman, Jon M. Schram
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Publication number: 20090084038Abstract: The subject matter of the invention is a device for preventing persons from boarding a vehicle, more specifically a bus, through the open door opening, said device including a stopper system (10) that is pivotal outward from the interior of the vehicle, said stopper system (10) including two rows of a plurality of arms that are arranged on top of one another said arms (20) are individually pivotable toward the outside, said arms (20), which are lying on one plane with respect to one another, being oriented so as to point angularly outward.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 22, 2007Publication date: April 2, 2009Applicant: Hubner GmbHInventor: Thorsten Sprenger
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Patent number: 7507051Abstract: An adjustable bollard protects structures from collisions with objects and limits access to particular areas. The bollard includes a rigid post body and a leg structure secured to the rigid body. The leg structure includes at least two leg portions adapted to support the rigid post body, where the two leg portions are separated by a predetermined distance. The bollard further includes an adjustment mechanism coupled to the rigid body, the two leg portions, or both. The adjustment mechanism is configured to apply a force to the rigid post body to flex the rigid body to adjust the predetermined distance for installation of the at least two leg portions. The bollard is constructed of material with sufficient strength and toughness to withstand collisions with heavier industrial type equipment.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2007Date of Patent: March 24, 2009Assignee: McCue CorporationInventors: David S. McCue, Daniel B. Ballou, Adam P. Stevens, Brent Hild, Teodoro A. Mesa, Genesis J. McDermott
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Publication number: 20090046451Abstract: A solar-powered parking space barrier block is configured as a one-piece molded housing of a high strength, transparent plastic material in which a photovoltaic solar panel and a DC energy storage module are inclosed. A pair of white light LED lamps provide end panel marker illumination, two yellow light LED lamps provide hazard warning illumination and a rechargeable supercapacitor storage module provides operating power. A power control circuit enables use of the solar panel as a photosensor to automatically energize the LED lamps when ambient skylight falls below a predetermined safe visibility level, and removes operating power from the LED lamps when ambient skylight rises above a predetermined safe visibility level.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 16, 2007Publication date: February 19, 2009Inventor: SCOTT C. HOOVER
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Publication number: 20090038226Abstract: A child safety window block consists of a block of material of which one face has a tacky adhesive. The block by the adhesive can be affixed to a window frame to limit the opening travel of the window to a ventilating gap which is too small for a child to pass out of the window. One block variation is a design with a push button switch which activates a sounder and which is reset to off by a concealed switch accessible with a narrow pointed tool. Another design incorporates a radio wireless button. The wireless receiver door bell sounder can activate any of a variety of attached security alarm features. Another variation uses a magnet or Velcro as part of the block fastening mounting.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 10, 2007Publication date: February 12, 2009Inventors: Gerald Angelo Morrone, Louis Samuel Tedesco
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Patent number: 7484906Abstract: A vehicle crash cushion for decelerating a vehicle includes first, second and third bays. The first bay is positioned forwardly of the second bay and the second bay is positioned forwardly of the third bay. The first, second and third bays each have energy absorbing structures with first, second and third impact strengths respectively. The first impact strength is greater than the third impact strength, which is greater than the second impact strength. In another aspect, a deformable tube is at least partially filled with a secondary component, which filled portion has a greater deformation strength than unfilled portions of the tube. In another aspect, a vehicle crash cushion includes first and second side panels. A connector includes a first strap portion disposed in a valley of and connected to the first side panel and a second strap portion disposed adjacent to and connected to a ridge of the second side panel.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 2007Date of Patent: February 3, 2009Assignee: Energy Absorption Systems, Inc.Inventors: John F. La Turner, Michael H. Oberth, Douglas E. Wilkinson
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Patent number: 7481598Abstract: A moveable barrier operator system includes a telescoping barrier arm. A motor is coupled to the telescoping barrier arm for extending the telescoping barrier arm from a retracted position to an extended position and retracting the arm from the extended position to the retracted position. A controller is coupled to the motor for selectively activating the motor to extend and retract the arm.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2006Date of Patent: January 27, 2009Assignee: The Chamberlain Group, Inc.Inventor: Tom J. Jankovsky