Impact Absorbing Flexible Barricade Patents (Class 49/9)
  • Patent number: 11214934
    Abstract: A variety of systems, methods, and compositions are disclosed, including in one method, a security arm barrier system, the system comprising: a drive stanchion mounted to a first substructure; an arm barrier coupled to the drive stanchion, wherein the arm barrier further comprises: a first member, wherein a proximal end of the first member is coupled to the drive stanchion; a second member, wherein a proximal end of the second member coupled to a distal end of the first member; and an articulating joint that couples the first member and the second member, and an energy absorbing material disposed within the first member and the second member; and a receiver stanchion mounted to a second substructure capable of receiving a distal end of the second member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2022
    Assignee: B & B Roadway and Security Solutions, LLC
    Inventors: Paul Matthews, Mark Ivey, Ron Johnson
  • Patent number: 11117842
    Abstract: Encapsulated seeds, processes for making encapsulated seeds and processes for establishing and improving seed beds and seed bed germination. The encapsulated seeds improve soil productivity through enhancements in soil fertility, soil condition/tilth, and control of soil moisture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2021
    Inventor: Michael Krysiak
  • Patent number: 9695560
    Abstract: A barrier system including an elastic net coupled to a cable, an energy absorption member coupled between the cable and an anchoring assembly, and an actuation assembly coupled to the net and configured to rotate the net about an axis of rotation between a closed position restricting vehicle access through the barrier system, and an open position allowing vehicle access through the barrier system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2017
    Inventor: Stephen Neusch
  • Patent number: 9151445
    Abstract: A caution and barrier system for danger of electrical arcing is disclosed. The caution and barrier system includes at least two elongate arms that attach to respective sides of a piece of equipment. The arms carry warning indicia. Some embodiments attach via traditional mounting hardware, while others mount magnetically to the equipment. The arms may also pivot and may comprise separate sections attached together by hinges. Yet other versions of the arms may be mounted on equipment using a multi-position magnetic mount. The caution and barrier system is particularly suitable for use with high voltage apparatus where electrical arcing is likely.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2015
    Assignee: Safe-T-Arms, L.L.C.
    Inventor: David M. Forehand
  • 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
  • Patent number: 8806805
    Abstract: A bendable barrier boom (1) designed to serve as a vehicle barrier, comprises a boom column, a barrier boom (1), and a drive for pivoting the barrier boom (1) between the blocked and the open position. The barrier boom includes a first barrier boom section (2), which is connected to the drive for pivoting the barrier boom (1), and a second barrier boom section (3), which is connected to the first barrier boom section (2) via an articulated joint (4). To maintain the second barrier boom section (3) in the horizontal position, provision is made for a cord (5) arranged in the first barrier boom section (2) parallel to its longitudinal axis that is tightened and clamped around two guide rollers (6, 8). The cord (5) and guide rollers (6, 8) operate to maintain the second boom section in the horizontal position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Skidata AG
    Inventors: Mario Melkes, Jürgen Schieren
  • Patent number: 8651165
    Abstract: The present invention is generally concerned with a breakaway door panel system comprising an impact resistant panel pivotally assembled to a pair of connecting members mountable to a door adjacent a first end and a second end of the panel respectively, and at least one impact releasable panel locking device comprising a first compliant holding element mounted at an end of the panel, a second complementary compliant holding element mounted to one of the connecting member adjacent the panel end, and a connecting bar releasably connecting the first holding element to the second holding element, whereby, when an impact force of at least a predetermined strength in applied to the panel, the bars are extracted from at least one of their respective holding elements, leaving the panel break away from the door, pivoting in the direction of the impact force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Inventors: Gia Loc Huynh, Viet Pham, Marco Foster
  • Patent number: 8640996
    Abstract: An example includes an apparatus for releasing a railroad gate in at least two directions. The example includes a primary pivot member and a secondary pivot member pivotally connected to the primary pivot member, with one end of the railroad crossing connectable to the secondary pivot member. In the example the primary pivot member is rotable around a primary pivot of the apparatus, the primary pivot member rotable in a first direction against a first spring bias and in a second direction, opposite the first direction, against a second spring bias other than the first spring bias, and wherein the secondary pivot member is rotable around a secondary pivot of the apparatus, the secondary pivot member rotable in the first direction against a third spring bias other than the first spring bias and the second spring bias.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: MTR, Inc.
    Inventor: Edwin J. Luetzow
  • Patent number: 8601739
    Abstract: A gate arm saver is provided. The gate arm saver includes a cam and cam follower arrangement. A biasing element biases the cam follower into engagement with a detent formed in the cam upon rotation of the cam from a rest position due a loading placed upon a gate arm extending from the gate arm saver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Siemens Rail Automation Corporation
    Inventor: Jerry C. Deitchman
  • Patent number: 8485478
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: MTR, Inc.
    Inventor: Edwin J. Luetzow
  • 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
  • Patent number: 8474183
    Abstract: The present invention relates to horticultural products and a method for making gardening products which have a dye or fragrance added to the products.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: ENCAP, LLC.
    Inventors: Michael D. Krysiak, Bryan A. Fish, Daniel P. Madigen
  • Publication number: 20130152471
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an industrial high-speed door assembly having a reduced door panel width and having guides for guiding the door which extend into a passageway but are resilient, tough, or resiliently collapsible, to either withstand impacts from vehicle collisions or moveable during opening of the door to avoid collisions while returning for guidance upon closing the door.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2012
    Publication date: June 20, 2013
    Inventors: Brian Norbert Drifka, Arno Klein, John Sonn, Donald P. Grasso, Daniel J. Gregoriou, Walenty Kalempa
  • Publication number: 20130133261
    Abstract: A composite blast door, when used as an exterior door of a protected structure, can significantly decrease the risk of life threatening hazards to interior occupants. The composite blast door is composed of outer sheets of steel, intermediate sheets of fiber reinforced polymers (FRP), and a filled core of vaporized aluminum. Rubber gaskets may be used as a buffer layer between the FRP and vaporized aluminum core. Fabrication begins with a door skeleton created from steel framing elements, either hollow structural steel members or channels. Afterwards, the rear panels are attached to the door skeleton in inward order: beginning with the outer steel plate, then the FRP sheet and lastly the optional rubber gasket. The door can now be used as a form to receive the vaporized aluminum filling. After filling, the front panels are attached in the reverse order as the rear panels; rubber first, then FRP, then steel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2011
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Inventor: Hyung Jin Choi
  • 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: 8240618
    Abstract: A multiple direction railroad gate release mechanism which is attached between the mount arms of a railroad gate actuator and a crossing arm to prevent breakage of the crossing arm due to impingement in either a frontal or rearward direction by a vehicle or other outside force. A primary pivot arm assembly allows a released movement of the crossing arm in reaction to frontal impingement and returns the crossing arm to the original and detent position subsequent to an impingement in order to maintain grade crossing protection. Spring assemblies, a shock absorber and a spring centering assembly act to return the primary pivot arm assembly and attached crossing arm to a normal detent position. A secondary pivot arm assembly is secured to the primary pivot arm assembly whereby the secondary pivot arm assembly can act independently of the primary pivot arm assembly to allow released movement and return of the crossing arm in reaction to rear impingement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: MTR Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Edwin J. Luetzow
  • Patent number: 8171681
    Abstract: An inflatable shutter is provided. The shutter comprises a protective layer and at least one air bladder, and is attached to the outside of a building structure. The shutter is positioned outside the building structure adjacent a window or other opening in order to protect the window or other opening from high velocity winds and flying debris during storms. The shutter may be removed from the outside of the building and compactly stored during periods of nonuse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignee: Qualitas Manufacturing Incorporated
    Inventor: James V. Miller
  • Patent number: 8161681
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Inventor: Michael T. Treihaft
  • 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: 8043024
    Abstract: A light weight, high strength cable supported by a longitudinal device that is capable of stopping a 15,000 lb vehicle at speeds exceeding 30 mph and provides for manual operation by one (1) person, whereas the barrier may pivot, move vertically, or swivel horizontally to control vehicle passage. Typically, the cable is embedded within a longitudinal support device and remains concealed. During normal operations where the vehicle barrier is moved, there is no tension on the cable and it remains unfastened. If a vehicle impact occurs, the cable immediately engages and fastens to the end support structures to resist vehicle impact forces. The light weight cable and longitudinal support device provides span distances exceeding 24 feet across a vehicle travel path, while requiring only one (1) person to manually move the barrier. The light weight cable and longitudinal support device also minimizes the counterweight size. The barrier may be moved by an operator from either side of the vehicle travel path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2011
    Inventor: Michael John Lamore
  • 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
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20100275515
    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: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2010
    Publication date: November 4, 2010
    Inventors: Matthew A. Gelfand, Joseph Vellozzi, John S. Paner, Norman D. Mackenzie, Shubin Ruan, D. Lance Bullard, JR., Dean C. Alberson
  • Patent number: 7814706
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: State of Florida, Department of Transportation
    Inventor: Louis A. Gamache
  • Publication number: 20100229467
    Abstract: A crash barrier apparatus for a structure opening that is closable with a movable door, the door being constructed and arranged with a security structure to close off the structure opening. The specific security structure of the referenced crash barrier apparatus includes, in one embodiment, a first support that is anchored to a first base surface, a second support that is anchored to a second base surface, and a beam received by the supports. In other embodiments, cable arrangements are used.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2009
    Publication date: September 16, 2010
    Inventors: Mark R. Perkins, Christopher J. Sipe
  • 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: 7775252
    Abstract: A vertically moving door of a truck loading dock includes a disconnectable horizontal joint that provides the door with a barrier position, wherein an upper section of the door can be separated from a lower section to create a ventilation area between the two. The ventilation area allows fresh outside air to enter the building, while the lower section remains at its lowermost position for safety and security. More specifically, the lower section serves as a barrier that helps prevent someone or something from accidentally falling through the doorway when a truck is not present at the dock. A lightweight, resilient strap can be attached to the lower section of the door to help protect that section from an otherwise damaging impact. A lattice of straps or a mesh can be installed across the ventilation area to help secure the building against theft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Rite-Hite Holding Corporation
    Inventors: Ronald P. Snyder, Jason D. Miller, Donald P. Grant, Paul J. Maly, Joseph A. Manone, Daniel M. Anderson, Ronald W. Bennett, Mark G. Petri
  • Publication number: 20100192464
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2008
    Publication date: August 5, 2010
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Makoto Hirai
  • Publication number: 20100154344
    Abstract: A steel rope safety system includes at least one steel rope having at least one strand, and the at least one rope or at least one strand is compacted. Further, a method is provided for making a steel rope safety system comprising the step of providing at least two wires, the step of stranding the wires thereby forming a strand for a rope and the step of compacting the strand. There is likewise provided the use of compacted steel ropes as impact reducing material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2010
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Inventors: Xavier Amils, Dale King
  • 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: 7641416
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Inventor: Gary Dale Miracle
  • Publication number: 20090151255
    Abstract: An article for securing a window film to a window frame includes an elongate body having a first end and a second end, a first portion having a first attachment surface extending from the first end to the second end, a connecting portion extending outwardly from the first portion opposite the first attachment surface, and a second portion joined with the end of the connecting portion opposite the first portion. Methods of anchoring an applied window film to a window frame using the article are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2007
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Inventors: Christopher A. Haak, Ryan B. Prince, Mario A. Perez, Steven R. Austin
  • Publication number: 20090145029
    Abstract: A guard fence for use in a drop test includes a frame defining a test area, four support legs respectively connected to the frame for supporting the frame, and four buffer curtains made of elastic materials and respectively disposed between two adjacent support legs for encircling the test area. As a result, when a drop test is conducted, the buffer curtains can effectively prevent the test sample from an undesired impact.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2008
    Publication date: June 11, 2009
    Applicant: UNIVERSAL SCIENTIFIC INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Jeng-Yan TONG, Se-Xin HSU, Ya-Ting YANG, Chia-Hung TSOU, Mei-Chung KAO
  • Publication number: 20090090060
    Abstract: Fall-through protection comprising a frame composed of four profiled sections, each consisting of profiled section parts. These profiled section parts can be displaced with respect to one another in order to adjust the length of the profiled sections. Couplings are provided in order to fix the adjusted length. Each profiled section has a stop which engages with the edge of the opening to be covered. Inside the profiled sections, a net is arranged. According to a particular embodiment, said net is attached to the profiled sections by means of plates which have eyelets which can be opened and closed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2008
    Publication date: April 9, 2009
    Applicant: KENNETT GMBH
    Inventor: Hans Antonius BORRA
  • Publication number: 20090090059
    Abstract: Embodiments of this invention include describe an improved apparatus and method for using ropes with security units/barriers deployed in water or on land. The ropes are preferrably deployed with hollow plastic tubes which protect the ropes from abrasion, UV light, and damage from animals. A rope contained within a tube is under no stress until an intruding object impacts the security barrier and the security barrier reaches its elastic limit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2007
    Publication date: April 9, 2009
    Inventor: Justin Bishop
  • 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
  • Patent number: 7354637
    Abstract: A fitting type damper and a process thereof being capable of increasing largely slipping torque in strength are ones that the large slipping torque can be increased not only when the damper is a new product but also after a heat aging test and/or a durability test are performed. And, the damper is one that ?-mercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane 4, which is an organosilane used as a non-slip agent, is adhered and fitted between a hub 1 formed by some metal parts and a rubber elastic body 3, and between a inertia mass body 2 formed by some metal parts and the rubber elastic body 3.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2008
    Assignee: Fukoku Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Seiichi Tagawa, Mikihito Ogawa
  • Patent number: 7249909
    Abstract: The specification and drawing figures describe and show a vehicle restraining system that includes a truss assembly. A rotateable drum is repositionable on the truss assembly. A gravitationally deployable vehicle restraining device is removably attachable to the drum and to the truss assembly. At least one cable is disengageably connectable to the drum and to the truss assembly. A plurality of guide rods is installed on the truss assembly in opposing spaced-apart pairs, and a boom is provided that is repositionable on the plurality of guide rods. At least one motor is mountable on the boom for both repositioning the boom on the plurality of guide rods and for rotating the drum to enfold the gravitationally deployable vehicle restraining device on the drum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Inventor: Michael Van Bibber
  • Patent number: 7154394
    Abstract: A hidden security device for a container of cargo transportation includes a case provided with an electronic processing unit; a tightly-seized device, including a plate, extending from the case, on which a displacement sensor communicating with the electronic processing unit is provided at a predetermined place; and a tightly-seized part, perpendicularly extending from the plate and having a flexing end; and an antenna, communicating with the electronic processing unit and extending out from the case to the flexing end of the tightly-seized part. The present security device can accurately record the time and frequency of opening the door plates of the container, and meanwhile it is disposed on the inner side of the door plates, and is readily concealed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Assignee: China International Marine Containers (Group) Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yuanda Zhou
  • Patent number: 7125197
    Abstract: A vehicle capture net disposed between a pair of towers each of which includes a shaft, a pair of spools coupled to the shaft, and a pair of straps connected to the net. Each strap is wound on a spool. A brake is coupled to the shaft and to the spools for providing a restraining force of increasing magnitude as the straps are unwound. Unwinding of the straps from the spools advances the pair of spools on threaded portions of the shaft to compress the adjacent braking surfaces against each other. The vehicle is stopped by deploying a vehicle capture net connected to at least one pair of straps each wound on a spool, permitting the vehicle to collide with the capture net and to unwind the straps from corresponding spools, and providing a restraining force of increasing magnitude on the straps as the straps are unwound from the spools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Inventors: Bohdan Krewsun, Brad Carr
  • 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: 6984432
    Abstract: A fitting type damper and a process thereof being capable of increasing largely slipping torque in strength are ones that the large slipping torque can be increased not only when the damper is a new product but also after a heat aging test and/or a durability test are performed. And, the damper is one that ?-mercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane 4, which is an organosilane used as a non-slip agent, is adhered and fitted between a hub 1 formed by some metal parts and a rubber elastic body 3, and between a inertia mass body 2 formed by some metal parts and the rubber elastic body 3.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2006
    Assignee: Fukoku Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Seiichi Tagawa, Mikihito Ogawa
  • Patent number: 6969185
    Abstract: A safety net that includes at least one illuminating element. The safety net is intended to be stored in a rolled-up fashion (similar to a roll-up window shade) in the trunk of a vehicle. When illuminated, the safety net provides a completely new and unique means of alerting oncoming traffic to a road hazard or other situation requiring traffic control. The safety net provides a warning means that will not be knocked over by the wind, as wind blows freely through the voids of the net. In addition, the safety net screens the scene from the view of those in oncoming traffic. The device may include a solid state controller that provides a variety of patterns or symbols to further enhance the visual safety features of the device. This can be accomplished by placing fiber optic strands in the net voids, or within the side illuminating fiber optic conduit itself. The device may also include metal cables to form a physical barrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2005
    Inventor: Darryl Adair
  • Patent number: 6672008
    Abstract: A railroad gate release mechanism which attaches between the mount arms of a railroad gate actuator and a crossing arm to prevent breakage of the crossing arm due to impingement by a vehicle. The railroad gate release mechanism includes a pivotable arm assembly which allows released movement in two directions of the crossing arm in reaction to impingement and returns the crossing arm to the original and detented position subsequent to impingement to maintain grade crossing protection. An alternative embodiment includes a pair of swing plates and an elongated arm to which is attached a crossing arm, the elongated arm with the attached crossing arm is pivoted to the pair of swing plates in such manner that the elongated arm and attached crossing arm can be pivoted aside without moving the swing plates for crossing arm maintenance without impeding vehicular traffic flow across the grade crossing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: MTR, Inc.
    Inventors: Edwin J. Luetzow, Richard L. Luetzow
  • Patent number: 6502356
    Abstract: There is described a profiled sash section for a window sash holding a window pane and intended for being installed in an outer frame of a blast resistant window. The sash section includes a main member enabling inter-engagement between the profiled sash member and the outer frame a window pane holding member for accommodating and securing an end portion of said window pane in the profiled sash member, and a reinforcing member designed to support the end portion of the window pane and to transmit blast pressure, if incidentally applied to the window pane, to the main member. For at least partially absorbing blast pressure energy applied to the window pane, the sash section is provided with damping means for deforming up to predetermined limit. Also described is a blast-resistant framework for a casement window, including the window sash assembled from the mentioned profiled sash sections and adapted for rigidly and air-tightly securing the window pane in the holders of the profiled sash members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Assignee: Arpal Aluminum Ltd.
    Inventor: Mordechay Emek
  • Patent number: 6470626
    Abstract: A railroad gate release mechanism which attaches between the mount arms of a railroad gate actuator and a crossing arm to prevent breakage of the crossing arm due to impingement by a vehicle. The railroad gate release mechanism includes a pivotable arm assembly which allows movement of the crossing arm in two directions in response to the impingement and returns the crossing arm to the original and detented position subsequent to the impingement to maintain grade crossing protection. Spring assemblies, a shock absorber and a spring centering assembly act to return the pivotable arm assembly and attached crossing arm to the normal detented position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Assignee: MTR, Inc.
    Inventors: Edwin J. Luetzow, Richard L. Luetzow
  • Publication number: 20020134020
    Abstract: The invention is a railroad gate release mechanism which attaches between the mount arms of a railroad gate actuator and a crossing arm to prevent breakage of the crossing arm due to impingement by a vehicle. A pivotable arm assembly allows released movement in two directions of the crossing arm in reaction to impingement and returns the crossing arm to the original and detented position subsequent to impingement to maintain grade crossing protection. Spring assemblies, a shock absorber and a spring centering assembly act to return the pivotable arm assembly and attached crossing arm to the normal detented position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2001
    Publication date: September 26, 2002
    Inventors: Edwin J. Luetzow, Richard L. Luetzow