Low Profile Road Marker Protector

Abstract

Disclosed is a protector for a retro-reflective road marker mounted on a road that includes a top surface that has a generally flat region and a bottom surface oppositely disposed from the top surface. The generally flat region has an opening where the retro-reflective road marker can be at least partially mounted to the protector by deforming studs located along the perimeter of the opening such that the retro-reflective road marker is moveable independent from the protector. The protector is made from a moldable polymer and the top surface is operable to protect the road reflector from motor vehicle tires passing thereover.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60 / 979,302, filed Oct. 11, 2007, which is incorporated herein by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]This invention relates generally to retro-reflective marker for mounting to roads. More specifically, the invention relates to a plastic protector for retro-reflective markers mounted to roads.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]In many regions, plastic retro-reflective road markers are mounted to the road surface to delineate the lanes. Retro-reflective markers mounted directly onto or into the road surface are damaged by the passing of motor vehicle tires over the markers. In particular, heavy motor vehicles such as trailer hauling trucks can cause significant damage and shorten the useable lifetime of retro-reflective road markers placed on the highway.[0004]Additionally, it has been difficult to accurately position plastic retro-reflective road markers with...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The patent describes a protector for a retro-reflective road marker that can protect the marker from damage caused by tires on the road. The protector has a flat top surface and a bottom surface with a cavity and tabs for attachment to the road surface. The top surface has side rails and a center portion with a ramp for the reflector to move independently. The bottom surface can also have tabs and a cavity. The protector is made from moldable polymer and can be easily attached to the road surface. The technical effect of this invention is to provide a safer and more durable retro-reflective road marker that can withstand damage from tires and maintain its reflective properties."

Problems solved by technology

Retro-reflective markers mounted directly onto or into the road surface are damaged by the passing of motor vehicle tires over the markers.

In particular, heavy motor vehicles such as trailer hauling trucks can cause significant damage and shorten the useable lifetime of retro-reflective road markers placed on the highway.

Additionally, it has been difficult to accurately position plastic retro-reflective road markers with respect to the road surface.

If the retro-reflective marker is placed too low within the pavement surface, the lens is obscured and there is insufficient light reflected from the lens to delineate the lane.

In contrast, if the retro-reflective marker extends too far above the road surface, it can become a hazard for vehicles passing over it and suffers premature damage due to tires passing over it.

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