Collapsible construction barrier

Abstract

A collapsible path barrier has at least three integrally-formed wall sections with a plurality of living hinges, as a series, joining each adjacent pair of wall sections, the at least three wall sections including two endmost wall sections joinable to form an upright structure. A collapsible path barrier may include a plurality of interconnected wall sections each having a top-facing side, where one of the top-facing sides has a pocket adapted for securely holding a light. A thermoformed unitary plastic object may include at least two wall sections, at least one hinge member connecting adjacent interior ones of the wall sections' longitudinal sides, the hinge member comprising a plurality of interconnected living hinges, where a nominal thickness of the at least one hinge members of the thermoformed unitary plastic object approximates 0.100 inch.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The invention relates generally to structure of thermoformed objects and, more particularly, to improvements for collapsible type warning / safety barriers and related objects. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] Traffic barrels are well known for use in roadways, such as for warning drivers of hazards like road construction and repair. Such barrels may be a high visibility, plastic, and of a shape and size similar to a standard 55 gallon drum. Traffic barrels are typically yellow or orange in color and are formed of a thick plastic material that endures significant wear and tear while being relatively lightweight yet sturdy. A ballast material such as sand may be placed therein to keep a traffic barrel from being affected by wind or by being slightly jarred by being hit by a passing vehicle. The ballast also keeps the traffic barrel from tipping over and rolling into the path of oncoming traffic. [0003] Other forms of warning barriers are used for various...

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