Sustainable bike lane barriers

Abstract

Sustainable bike lane barriers are provided. The sustainable bike lane barrier system includes a plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers interconnected with each other. Each sustainable bike lane barrier of the plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers includes a protrusion and a cavity. The protrusion of a first sustainable bike lane barrier of the plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers is inserted into the cavity of a second sustainable bike lane barrier of the plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers. The sustainable bike lane barrier system also includes at least one fastener extending through the protrusion of the first sustainable bike lane barrier, the cavity of the second sustainable bike lane barrier, and into the ground to interlock the plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers and to secure the sustainable bike lane barrier system to the ground.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 734,678, filed 16 Dec. 2024, and entitled SUSTAINABLE BIKE LANE BARRIERS, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to sustainable bike lane barriers.BACKGROUND OF CERTAIN ASPECTS OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0003] Some bike lanes may run along city streets next to lanes of traffic intended for heavier vehicles, such as cars and trucks. This arrangement may pose a risk to cyclists because the proximity to heavier vehicles may increase the likelihood of a collision between the heavier vehicles and the cyclists. Some bike lanes may include barriers that separate the bike lane from the lanes of traffic intended for heavier vehicles. However, at least some of the bike lane barriers are low profile, insubstantial, and intermittently positioned between the bike lane and the lanes of traffic intended for heavier vehicles. As such, the bike lane barriers may not be substantial enough to prevent a vehicle entering into or impinging on a bike lane, at least partially resist impingement of the vehicle into the bike lane, or reduce the likelihood of a vehicle entering into a bike lane.

[0004] Bike lane barriers are typically made of a non-sustainable material such as concrete, plastic, and / or a non-sustainable material filled with water. For example, some bike lane barriers may be made of concrete and may be reinforced with rebar or some other material. At least some jurisdictions require that contractors for large projects consider using sustainable materials in the project and some jurisdictions require that contractors actually use sustainable materials in the project if sustainable materials are available.

[0005] Accordingly, there is a need for a bike lane barrier that is formed of sustainable materials where the bike lane barrier is substantial enough to prevent a vehicle entering into or impinging on a bike lane, at least partially resist impingement of the vehicle into the bike lane, or reduce the likelihood of a vehicle entering into a bike lane.BRIEF SUMMARY OF SOME ASPECTS OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a sustainable bike lane barrier system including a plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers interconnected with each other. Each sustainable bike lane barrier of the plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers includes a protrusion and a cavity. The protrusion of a first sustainable bike lane barrier of the plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers is inserted into the cavity of a second sustainable bike lane barrier of the plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers. The sustainable bike lane barrier system also includes at least one fastener extending through the protrusion of the first sustainable bike lane barrier, the cavity of the second sustainable bike lane barrier, and into the ground to interlock the plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers and to secure the sustainable bike lane barrier system to the ground.

[0007] Another aspect of present disclosure relates to a sustainable bike lane barrier system including a plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers interconnected with each other. Each sustainable bike lane barrier of the plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers includes a protrusion, a cavity, and a platform positioned on a top of the sustainable bike lane barrier. The protrusion of a first sustainable bike lane barrier of the plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers is inserted into the cavity of a second sustainable bike lane barrier of the plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers. The sustainable bike lane barrier system also includes at least one fastener extending through the protrusion of the first sustainable bike lane barrier, the cavity of the second sustainable bike lane barrier, and into the ground to interlock the plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers and to secure the sustainable bike lane barrier system to the ground. The sustainable bike lane barrier system further includes at least one accessory attached to the platform.

[0008] Yet another aspect of present disclosure relates to a sustainable bike lane barrier system including a plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers positioned next to each other. Each sustainable bike lane barrier of the plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers defines an asymmetrical shape including at least one vertical side configured to be oriented away from a bike lane and at least one angled side configured to be oriented toward the bike lane. The sustainable bike lane barrier system also includes at least one fastener extending through each sustainable bike lane barrier of the plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers and into the ground to secure the sustainable bike lane barrier system to the ground.

[0009] There are other novel aspects and features of this disclosure. They will become apparent as this specification proceeds. Accordingly, this brief summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description. The summary and the background are not intended to identify key concepts or essential aspects of the disclosed subject matter, nor should they be used to constrict or limit the scope of the claims. For example, the scope of the claims should not be limited based on whether the recited subject matter includes any or all aspects noted in the summary and / or addresses any of the issues noted in the background.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] A further understanding of the nature and advantages of the embodiments may be realized by reference to the following drawings. In the appended figures, similar components or features may have the same reference label.

[0011] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an example sustainable bike lane barrier system in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded view of the sustainable bike lane barrier system illustrated in FIG. 1 in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 3 illustrates an end view of the sustainable bike lane barrier system illustrated in FIG. 1 in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 4 illustrates a side view of the sustainable bike lane barrier system illustrated in FIG. 1 in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 5 illustrates a top view of the sustainable bike lane barrier system illustrated in FIG. 1 in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 6 illustrates a bottom view of the sustainable bike lane barrier system illustrated in FIG. 1 in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 7 illustrates an end view of the sustainable bike lane barrier system illustrated in FIG. 1 in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 8 illustrates a sectional view of the sustainable bike lane barrier system illustrated in FIG. 1 in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 9 illustrates several views of an alternative sustainable bike lane barrier in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of the sustainable bike lane barrier shown in FIG. 9 in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 11 illustrates several views of an alternative sustainable bike lane barrier in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 12 illustrates several views of an alternative sustainable bike lane system in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 13 illustrates several views of the alternative sustainable bike lane system shown in FIG. 12 in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 14 illustrates various views of an alternative sustainable bike lane system in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 15 illustrates various views of the alternative sustainable bike lane system shown in FIG. 14 in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 16 illustrates various views of an alternative sustainable bike lane system in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 17 illustrates various views of the alternative sustainable bike lane system shown in FIG. 16 in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 18 illustrates various views of an alternative sustainable bike lane system in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 19 illustrates various views of a portion of the alternative sustainable bike lane system shown in FIG. 18 in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 20 illustrates various views of a portion of the alternative sustainable bike lane system shown in FIG. 18 in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 21 illustrates various views of an alternative sustainable bike lane system in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 22 illustrates various views of the alternative sustainable bike lane system shown in FIG. 16 in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0033] While the embodiments described herein are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail herein. However, the exemplary embodiments described herein are not intended to be limited to the particular forms disclosed. Rather, the instant disclosure covers all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the appended claims.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] The systems and methods disclosed herein relate to, among other things, a sustainable bike lane barrier and a sustainable bike lane barrier system that may be used for a variety of purposes including use as a traffic barrier for bike lanes. The sustainable bike lane barriers described herein are formed of a waste material and a binder that binds the waste material into a specific shape for a specific use. Additionally, the waste material and the binder may be combined in different ratios with different compositions such that the material that forms the sustainable bike lane barrier may be tailored to specific uses. Moreover, the shape of the barriers may be tailored to a specific shape to suit a specific function. Accordingly, the sustainable bike lane barriers described herein are formed of a sustainable material with a tailored composition and shape to suit a specific function.

[0035] Specifically, in the illustrated embodiments, the waste material used to form the sustainable bike lane barriers described herein is used tires. In alternative embodiments, the waste material may be any material including, but not limited to, recycled plastics, recycled wood, and / or any other sustainable or recyclable material. The binder includes a polyurethane binder, an optional colorant, an optional catalyst, and a small amount of water. The used tires are ground to form a crumb rubber, and the binder is formulated to bind the crumb rubber into a formed sustainable bike lane barrier. Specifically, the binder has been formulated to bind the crumb rubber into the sustainable bike lane barrier without using heat. More specifically, the catalyst within the binder quickly forms the sustainable bike lane barrier such that heat is not required.

[0036] The shape of the sustainable bike lane barriers may also be tailored to different uses. That is, the mold used to cure the mixture may be configured to have different shapes such that the sustainable bike lane barriers are useful for other applications. For example, the sustainable bike lane barriers may have shapes suitable for specific traffic conditions. Specifically, in some embodiments, the sustainable bike lane barriers may interlock with each other to provide more stability during potential vehicle impacts. Additionally, the sustainable bike lane barriers may include a redirecting or angled top that is configured to lift the tire of a vehicle and push the vehicle back into its lane without damaging or harming the vehicle or its occupants. Thus, the shape of the sustainable bike lane barriers described herein are tailored to protect bike lanes and cyclists from vehicles entering a bike lane. That is, the sustainable bike lane barriers described herein have a shape that is tailored to prevent a vehicle entering into or impinging on a bike lane, at least partially resist impingement of the vehicle into the bike lane, or reduce the likelihood of a vehicle entering into a bike lane.

[0037] Moreover, the sustainable bike lane barrier systems and sustainable bike lane barriers described herein are designed to be interconnected and substantial or robust enough to prevent a vehicle inadvertently drifting into a bike lane and potentially saving a cyclist within the bike lane from a collision that could result in injury to the cyclist. More specifically, at least some bike lane barriers merely include barriers that are spaced apart at regular intervals to separate a bike lane from other lanes of traffic. The barriers are not connected to each other, and, as such, a collision with a vehicle may dislodge the barrier because other connected barriers do not provide additional support. Additionally, at least some bike lane barriers have are not substantial or robust enough to actually prevent or reduce the likelihood of a vehicle inadvertently drifting into the bike lane. For example, at least some bike lane barriers have a low or narrow profile such that the barriers merely act as speed bumps or notifications that the vehicle is drifting into the bike lane. In contrast, the sustainable bike lane barrier systems and sustainable bike lane barriers described herein are designed to be interconnected, fastened to the ground, and substantial or robust enough to prevent a vehicle entering into or impinging on a bike lane, at least partially resist impingement of the vehicle into the bike lane, or reduce the likelihood of a vehicle entering into a bike lane.

[0038] Specifically, the sustainable bike lane barrier systems and sustainable bike lane barriers described herein do not merely separate or delineate the bike lane from other lanes of traffic. Rather, the sustainable bike lane barrier systems and sustainable bike lane barriers described herein are substantial enough and robust enough to actually prevent or reduce the likelihood of a vehicle inadvertently drifting into the bike lane. More specifically, the sustainable bike lane barrier systems and sustainable bike lane barriers described herein have a width of approximately 8 inches to approximately 24 inches and a height of approximately 8 inches to approximately 36 inches. More specifically, the width is approximately 10 inches to 18 inches, and the height is approximately 8 inches to 18 inches. The width and height of the sustainable bike lane barrier systems and sustainable bike lane barriers described herein are significantly longer than other bike lane barriers such that the sustainable bike lane barrier systems and sustainable bike lane barriers described herein are significantly more robust than other bike lane barriers.

[0039] Additionally, the sustainable bike lane barrier systems and sustainable bike lane barriers described herein do not require any heavy lifting equipment for installation or repair. Repair and installation are easily performed using readily available tools, and a single typical city work truck has the ability to transport all necessary materials, tools, and personnel. As such, the sustainable bike lane barrier systems and sustainable bike lane barriers described herein are modular, adaptable, and versatile. The waste material that the sustainable bike lane barrier systems and sustainable bike lane barriers described herein are made from and the short sections of the barriers allow the systems to follow the natural curvature of the road and adapt to imperfections in the road surface. Furthermore, the interlocking mechanism of the barriers enables the barriers to intentionally curve and follow the natural curvature of the road.

[0040] Finally, the sustainable bike lane barrier systems and sustainable bike lane barriers described herein are capable of easily receiving accessories to suit the needs of the municipality. For example, accessories such as reflectors, flex posts and bollards, traffic signage, lights, high visibility materials, and / or signposts. The traffic signage may include signs that provide directions or instructions such as merge signs, bikes only signs, arrows, one way signs, stop signs, yield signs, and / or any other sign. The waste materials that form the barriers easily receive a bolt or screw that can secure the accessories to the barrier. For example, simple wood screws or lag bolts can attach most accessories, with no need for pre-drilling or having to use epoxies and glues. In contrast, barriers made of concrete do not easily receive accessories because concrete is difficult to drill into and may become brittle. As such, the sustainable bike lane barrier systems and sustainable bike lane barriers described herein are capable of easily receiving accessories to suit the needs of the municipality.

[0041] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an example sustainable bike lane barrier system 100. FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded perspective view of the sustainable bike lane barrier system 100 illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 illustrates an end view of the sustainable bike lane barrier system 100 illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG. 4 illustrates a side view of the sustainable bike lane barrier system 100 illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG. 5 illustrates a top view of the sustainable bike lane barrier 100 illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG. 6 illustrates a bottom view of the sustainable bike lane barrier system 100 illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG. 7 illustrates an end view of the sustainable bike lane barrier system 100 illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG. 8 illustrates a sectional view of the sustainable bike lane barrier system 100 illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0042] As shown in FIGS. 1-8, the sustainable bike lane barrier system 100 includes a plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers 102 each configured to interlock with each other to form a strong and stable system for separating a bike lane from other traffic lanes or from pedestrian walking areas. Each sustainable bike lane barrier 102 generally includes a top 104, two narrow sides 106, two broad sides 108, and a bottom 110. In the illustrated embodiment, the two broad sides 108 have substantially the same shape and the two narrow sides 106 have different shapes to enable the sustainable bike lane barriers 102 to interlock with each other. Specifically, a first narrow end 112 of the two narrow sides 106 defines a cavity 114 for receiving a protrusion 116 from a second narrow end 118 of the two narrow sides 106. The example system of FIGS. 1-8 includes a first sustainable bike lane barrier 120, a second sustainable bike lane barrier 122, and a last or third sustainable bike lane barrier 128. As shown in the FIGS. 1-8, in the assembled configuration, the protrusion 116 of the second sustainable bike lane barrier 122 is inserted into the cavity 114 of the first sustainable bike lane barrier 120 to interlock the two barriers 120 and 122. A fastener 124 (a screw, a nail, or some other fastener) is then inserted through the top 104 of the first sustainable bike lane barrier 120 such that the fastener extends though the cavity 114 of the first sustainable bike lane barrier 120, through the protrusion 116 of the second sustainable bike lane barrier 122, and into the ground. The fastener 124 secures both barriers 120 and 122 to the ground and the protrusion / cavity system interlocks the barriers 120 and 122 to strengthen the system 100. This process is repeated for each of the barriers 102 in the system 100 until the bike lane ends or a barrier is otherwise not required. A sustainable bike lane barrier cap 126 is inserted into the last sustainable bike land barrier 128 to protect the cavity 114 of the last sustainable bike lane barrier 128 and end the system 100. On the opposite end of the system 100, the protrusion 116 of the first sustainable bike lane barrier 120 serves to cap the opposite end of the system 100.

[0043] As described herein, the sustainable bike lane barrier system 100 and sustainable bike lane barriers 102 are designed to be interconnected and substantial or robust enough to prevent a vehicle inadvertently drifting into a bike lane and potentially saving a cyclist within the bike lane from a collision that could result in injury to the cyclist. More specifically, at least some bike lane barriers merely include barriers that are spaced apart at regular intervals to separate a bike lane from other lanes of traffic. The barriers are not connected to each other, and, as such, a collision with a vehicle may dislodge the barrier because other connected barriers do not provide additional support. Additionally, at least some bike lane barriers have are not substantial or robust enough to actually prevent or reduce the likelihood of a vehicle inadvertently drifting into the bike lane. For example, at least some bike lane barriers have a low or narrow profile such that the barriers merely act as speed bumps or notifications that the vehicle is drifting into the bike lane. In contrast, the sustainable bike lane barrier system 100 and sustainable bike lane barriers 102 are designed to be interconnected and substantial or robust enough to prevent a vehicle entering into or impinging on a bike lane, at least partially resist impingement of the vehicle into the bike lane, or reduce the likelihood of a vehicle entering into a bike lane.

[0044] Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 1-8, each of the sustainable bike lane barriers 102 includes a main body 130, the protrusion 116 extending from the second narrow end 118 of the main body 130, the cavity 114 defined in the first narrow end 112. The main body 130, the protrusion 116, and the cavity 114 collectively define a base 132 of the sustainable bike lane barrier 102 that is the widest portion of the sustainable bike lane barriers 102 and is configured to be placed on the ground. The base 132 is configured to form a stable foundation for the sustainable bike lane barriers 102 and the system 100 because the base 132 is substantial or robust enough to reduce the risk of a vehicle inadvertently drifting into a bike lane. In some cases, the base 132 may be substantial or robust enough to prevent a vehicle inadvertently drifting into a bike lane and potentially saving a cyclist within the bike lane from a collision that could result in injury to the cyclist.

[0045] In the illustrated embodiments, the sustainable bike lane barrier 102 defines a barrier length 134 and a barrier width 136, the main body 130 defines a main body length 138 and a main body width 140, and the protrusion 116 defines a protrusion length 142 and a protrusion width 144. In the illustrated embodiment, the barrier width 136 is the same as the main body width 140, and the barrier length 134 is equal to the sum of the main body length 138 and the protrusion length 142. The protrusion width 144 is smaller than the barrier width 136 and the main body width 140 because the protrusion 116 is dimensioned to fit into the cavity 114 of another sustainable bike lane barrier 102. In alternative embodiments, the barrier width 136 may be larger than the main body width 140 because the platform 984 (illustrated in FIG. 9) may be wider than the main body 130.

[0046] More specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the barrier length 134 is approximately 18 inches to approximately 36 inches, approximately 25 inches to approximately 32 inches, approximately 28 inches to approximately 32 inches, or approximately 30 inches; the barrier width 136 is approximately 8 inches to approximately 16 inches, approximately 8 inches to approximately 12 inches, or approximately 10 inches; the main body length 138 is approximately 12 inches to approximately 30 inches, approximately 20 inches to approximately 30 inches, approximately 20 inches to approximately 28 inches, or approximately 24 inches; the main body width 140 is approximately 8 inches to approximately 16 inches, approximately 8 inches to approximately 12 inches, or approximately 10 inches; the protrusion length 142 is approximately 3 inches to approximately 12 inches, approximately 4 inches to approximately 10 inches, or approximately 6 inches; and the protrusion width 144 is approximately 3 inches to approximately 12 inches, approximately 4 inches to approximately 10 inches, or approximately 7 inches. In alternative embodiments, the barrier length 134, barrier width 136, the main body length 138, the main body width 140, the protrusion length 142, and protrusion width 144 may be any length that enable the sustainable bike lane barriers 102 described herein to operate as described herein.

[0047] In the illustrated embodiment, the barrier length 134, the barrier width 136, the main body length 138, the main body width 140, the protrusion length 142, and protrusion width 144 are long enough to stabilize the sustainable bike lane barrier system 100 and sustainable bike lane barriers 102 during a potential impact with a vehicle. Accordingly, t the barrier length 134, barrier width 136, the main body length 138, the main body width 140, the protrusion length 142, and protrusion width 144 are long enough to stabilize the sustainable bike lane barrier system 100 and sustainable bike lane barriers 102 during a potential impact with a vehicle to prevent the vehicle entering into or impinging on a bike lane, at least partially resist impingement of the vehicle into the bike lane, or reduce the likelihood of a vehicle entering into a bike lane.

[0048] Additionally, the main body 130 includes a redirecting top 146 positioned on the base 132. The redirecting top 146 is configured to redirect vehicles safely away from the bike lane by letting tires of the vehicle ride up a side 148 of the redirecting top 146, lifting the vehicle slightly and pushing the vehicle back into its lane, preventing rollovers or violent crashes. Additionally, the steep sides 148 of the redirecting top 146 handles sharper impacts by guiding the bumper of the vehicle upward to lift the vehicle and reduce friction, bringing the vehicle to a controlled stop. Moreover, the redirecting top 146 defines a height 150 of the sustainable bike lane barrier 102. The height 150 is higher than at least some bike lane barriers, and, as such, the height 150 of the sustainable bike lane barrier 102 and the shape of the redirecting top 146 makes the sustainable bike lane barriers 102 and the system 100 described herein more robust than at least some bike lane barriers.

[0049] Specifically, the sides 148 of the redirecting top 146 are oriented at an angle α relative to a vertical line from grade or are oriented at an angle β relative to grade. In the illustrated embodiment, the angle α is approximately 3° to approximately 30° and the angle β is approximately 93° to approximately 120° or up to 120°. In alternative embodiments, the angle α and the angle β may be any angle that enables the sustainable bike lane barriers 102 and the system 100 described herein to operate as described herein. The angled side 148 is configured to redirect vehicles safely away from the bike lane by letting tires of the vehicle ride up the side 148, lifting the vehicle slightly and pushing the vehicle back into its lane, preventing rollovers or violent crashes. As shown in FIG. 3, the relatively steep sides 148 of the redirecting top 146 are designed to lift the tire of a vehicle when the vehicle is traveling generally in the same direction as the bike lane but drifting into the bike lane. However, the sides 148 are not so angled that the vehicle easily drives over the barrier, and the angle α and the angle β are configured to redirect the vehicle rather than allowing the vehicle to drive over the barrier. The sides 148 lift the tire of the vehicle and push the vehicle back into the vehicle's lane. Thus, the shape of the redirecting top 146 may prevent the vehicle entering into or impinging on a bike lane, at least partially resist impingement of the vehicle into the bike lane, or reduce the likelihood of a vehicle entering into a bike lane.

[0050] Additionally, the height 150 of the sustainable bike lane barrier 102 is approximately 10 inches to approximately 16 inches. As discussed above, the height 150 is higher than at least some bike lane barriers and makes the sustainable bike lane barriers 102 and the system 100 described herein more robust than at least some bike lane barriers. Specifically, at least some bike lane barriers have a low profile that does not necessarily prevent or reduce the likelihood of a vehicle entering or impinging on a bike lane. For example, low profile bike lane barriers may not be used to continuously separate a bike lane from other vehicle lanes, i.e., they are positioned at regular intervals along the lanes of traffic and are merely meant to notify the vehicle operator that the vehicle is drifting into the bike lane by vibrating or bumping the tires. In contrast, the height 150 of the sustainable bike lane barrier 102 is at least 8 inches, at least 10 inches, at least 12 inches, at least 14 inches, or at least 16 inches to prevent or reduce the likelihood of a vehicle entering into a bike lane.

[0051] The redirecting top 146 defines a top 152, a first angled narrow end 154, and a second angled narrow end 156. In the illustrated embodiment, the top 152 is substantially flat, and the first angled narrow end 154 and the second angled narrow end 156 are both oriented at an angle γ relative to the top 152. The first angled narrow end 154 and the second angled narrow end 156 provide a surface that is generally oriented toward an operator of a vehicle, and a reflector 158 may be positioned on the first angled narrow end 154 and the second angled narrow end 156 to alert the operator of the vehicle of the location of the sustainable bike lane barrier 102. Specifically, the angle γ is configured to at least partially orient the reflector 158 in the direction of vehicular, bicycle, and pedestrian traffic. More specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the angle γ is approximately 25° to approximately 90°, approximately 30° to approximately 60°, approximately 35° or at least 25°. Additionally, the first angled narrow end 154 defines a fastener cutout 160 that defines a flat surface 162 positioned above the cavity 114. The fastener 124 is configured to be inserted through the flat surface 162, into the cavity 114, into the protrusion 116 of another sustainable bike lane barrier 102, and into the ground to attach two sustainable bike lane barriers 102 together and secure the system 100 to the ground.

[0052] The base 132 defines at least one first drainage slot 164 and / or at least one second drainage slot 166. The first drainage slot 164 is oriented along the barrier width 136, and the second drainage slot 166 is oriented along the barrier length 134. The drainage slots 164 and 166 facilitate water drainage from one side of the sustainable bike lane barrier 102 to the other. In alternative embodiments, the sustainable bike lane barrier 102 may not define or include the first drainage slot 164 and / or the second drainage slot 166.

[0053] In the illustrated embodiment, the cavity 114 and the protrusion 116 have complementary shapes such that the cavity 114 is configured to receive the protrusion 116. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the protrusion 116 has a substantially square base 168 and an angled top 170. Similarly, the cavity 114 also defines a substantially square base 172 configured to receive the substantially square base 168 of the protrusion 116 and an angled top 174 configured to receive the angled top 170 of the protrusion 116. The angled top 170 of the protrusion 116 may also include a reflector when the protrusion 116 defines an end of the system 100.

[0054] In the illustrated embodiment, the cavity 114 defines a cavity width, a cavity length, and a cavity height. Additionally, the protrusion 116 defines a protrusion height. In some embodiments, the dimensions of the cavity 114 substantially correspond to the dimensions of the protrusion 116. In some embodiments, the dimensions of the cavity 114 are slightly larger than the dimensions of the protrusion 116 to enable the protrusion 116 to be slightly turned within the cavity 114. Turning the protrusion 116 within the cavity 114 enables the system 100 to follow at least some curves of a bike lane and enables the system 100 to remain interconnected and stable along many bike lanes as they curve. In the illustrated embodiment, the cavity width is approximately 3 inches to approximately 12 inches, approximately 4 inches to approximately 10 inches, or approximately 7 inches; the cavity length is approximately 3 inches to approximately 12 inches, approximately 4 inches to approximately 10 inches, or approximately 6 inches; the cavity height is approximately 3 inches to approximately 12 inches, approximately 4 inches to approximately 10 inches, or approximately 6 inches; and the protrusion height is approximately the same as the cavity height. In alternative embodiments, the cavity width, the cavity length, the cavity height, and the protrusion height may be any length that enable the cavity 114 and the protrusion 116 to operate as described herein.

[0055] As discussed above, the sustainable bike lane barriers 102 described herein are formed of a waste material and a binder that binds the waste material into bike lane shapes described herein. The waste material and the binder may be combined in different ratios with different compositions such that the material that forms the sustainable bike lane barrier 102 may have portions with different densities or may be tailored to a specific shape to suit a specific function. For example, the material that forms the sustainable bike lane barrier 102 may be shaped into the specific bike lane barriers described herein. Accordingly, the sustainable bike lane barriers 102 described herein are formed of a sustainable material with a tailored composition and shape to suit the specific bike lane function.

[0056] Specifically, in the illustrated embodiments, the waste material used to form the sustainable bike lane barriers 102 described herein is used tires. In alternative embodiments, the waste material may be any material including, but not limited to, recycled plastics, recycled wood, and / or any other sustainable or recyclable material. The used tires are ground to form a crumb rubber, and the binder is formulated to bind the crumb rubber into a formed sustainable bike lane barrier 102. In the illustrated embodiments, the waste material is approximately 90% to approximately 99% by weight of the sustainable bike lane barrier 102, approximately 91% to approximately 99% by weight of the sustainable bike lane barrier 102, approximately 92% to approximately 99% by weight of the sustainable bike lane barrier 102, approximately 93% to approximately 99% by weight of the sustainable bike lane barrier 102, approximately 94% to approximately 99% by weight of the sustainable bike lane barrier 102, approximately 95% to approximately 99% by weight of the sustainable bike lane barrier 102, or approximately 95% to approximately 98% by weight of the sustainable bike lane barrier 102. In alternative embodiments, the composition of the waste material in the sustainable bike lane barriers 102 described herein may be any amount that enables the sustainable bike lane barriers 102 to operate as described herein.

[0057] The properties of the waste material and / or the processing conditions may be varied to tune or specify the final properties of the sustainable barrier. Specifically, a specific type of waste material may be selected to achieve a desired physical property within the sustainable barrier. For example, a denser waste material may be selected such that the sustainable bike lane barrier is denser and / or harder. The denser / harder sustainable bike lane barrier may be useful for specific uses or harsh environments. For example, the denser / harder sustainable bike lane barriers may be tailored for bike lane barriers in high traffic or higher speed areas where collisions may cause damage to softer / less dense barriers.

[0058] Conversely, a less dense waste material may be selected such that the sustainable bike lane barrier is less dense and / or softer. The less dense / softer sustainable bike lane barrier may be useful for specific uses or specific environments. For example, the less dense / softer sustainable bike lane barriers may be useful for situations where the bike lane barrier separates a bike lane from a pedestrian path. Additionally, the density of the sustainable bike lane barrier may also be varied based on the compression pressure used to from the barrier. A higher compression pressure increases the density of the sustainable bike lane barrier, and a lower compression pressure decreases the density of the sustainable barrier.

[0059] The binder includes a polyurethane binder, an optional colorant, a catalyst, and a small amount of water. The binder has been formulated to bind the crumb rubber into the sustainable bike lane barriers 102 described herein without using heat. More specifically, the catalyst within the binder quickly forms the sustainable bike lane barriers 102 such that heat is not required to cure the sustainable bike lane barriers 102. In the illustrated embodiments, the binder is approximately 10% to approximately 1% by weight of the sustainable bike lane barrier 102, approximately 9% to approximately 1% by weight of the sustainable bike lane barrier 102, approximately 8% to approximately 1% by weight of the sustainable bike lane barrier 102, approximately 7% to approximately 1% by weight of the sustainable bike lane barrier 102, approximately 6% to approximately 1% by weight of the sustainable bike lane barrier 102, approximately 5% to approximately 1% by weight of the sustainable bike lane barrier 102, or approximately 5% to approximately 2% by weight of the sustainable bike lane barrier 102. In alternative embodiments, the composition of the binder in the sustainable bike lane barriers 102 described herein may be any amount that enables the sustainable bike lane barriers 102 to operate as described herein.

[0060] The polyurethane binder includes a polyurethane adhesive. In the illustrated embodiment, the polyurethane binder includes an aromatic polyurethane binder. More specifically, the polyurethane binder may include Stobicoll® R 1142, Stobicoll® R 359, Stobicoll® R 1129, Stobicoll® R 382, Stobicoll® R 401, Stobicoll® R 1160, Polyval® GN416, Polyval® GN418, and / or Poly Tree® Fusion. In the illustrated embodiments, the polyurethane binder is approximately 10% to approximately 1% by weight of the waste material, approximately 10% to approximately 1.5% by weight of the waste material, approximately 9% to approximately 1% by weight of the waste material, approximately 8% to approximately 1% by weight of the waste material, approximately 7% to approximately 1% by weight of the waste material, approximately 6% to approximately 1% by weight of the waste material, approximately 5% to approximately 1% by weight of the waste material, or approximately 2.5% to approximately 2% by weight of the waste material. In alternative embodiments, the composition of the polyurethane binder in the sustainable bike lane barriers 102 described herein may be any amount that enables the sustainable bike lane barriers 102 to operate as described herein.

[0061] The colorant includes any material configured to dye the waste material and the binder a color. In the illustrated embodiments, the colorant is approximately 10% to approximately 1% by weight of the waste material, approximately 10% to approximately 1.5% by weight of the waste material, approximately 9% to approximately 1% by weight of the waste material, approximately 8% to approximately 1% by weight of the waste material, approximately 7% to approximately 1% by weight of the waste material, approximately 6% to approximately 1% by weight of the waste material, approximately 5% to approximately 1% by weight of the waste material, or approximately 5% to approximately 2.5% by weight of the waste material. In alternative embodiments, the composition of the colorant in the sustainable bike lane barriers 102 described herein may be any amount that enables the sustainable bike lane barriers 102 to operate as described herein.

[0062] The catalyst or accelerant includes a polyether polyol-based catalyst configured increase polyurethane reactivity. In the illustrated embodiment, the catalyst or accelerant includes Stobiblend® Z 952.50, Stobiblend® Z 1959, and / or Polyval® 910624. In the illustrated embodiments, the catalyst is approximately 1% to approximately 0.001% by weight of the waste material, approximately 0.5% to approximately 0.001% by weight of the waste material, approximately 0.1% to approximately 0.001% by weight of the waste material, approximately 0.05% to approximately 0.001% by weight of the waste material, approximately 0.01% to approximately 0.001% by weight of the waste material, approximately 0.005% to approximately 0.001% by weight of the waste material, approximately 0.003% to approximately 0.001% by weight of the waste material, or approximately 0.002% by weight of the waste material. In alternative embodiments, the composition of the catalyst in the sustainable bike lane barriers 102 described herein may be any amount that enables the sustainable bike lane barriers 102 to operate as described herein. In some embodiments, the catalyst may not be included in the sustainable bike lane barrier 102. Rather, environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity levels will determine if catalyst is used, and how much catalyst is used.

[0063] In the illustrated embodiments, water is approximately 1% to approximately 0.01% by weight of the waste material, approximately 0.5% to approximately 0.01% by weight of the waste material, approximately 0.1% to approximately 0.01% by weight of the waste material, approximately 0.05% to approximately 0.01% by weight of the waste material, approximately 0.04% to approximately 0.01% by weight of the waste material, approximately 0.03% to approximately 0.01% by weight of the waste material, approximately 0.02% to approximately 0.01% by weight of the waste material, or approximately 0.02% by weight of the waste material. n alternative embodiments, the composition of water in the sustainable bike lane barriers 102 described herein may be any amount that enables the sustainable bike lane barriers 102 to operate as described herein. In some embodiments, water may not be included in the sustainable bike lane barrier 102. Rather, environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity levels will determine if water is used, and how much catalyst is used.

[0064] The waste material and the binder are combined into a mixture. The mixture is put into a mold, and the mold cures the mixture into the sustainable bike lane barriers 102 described herein at high pressure. The sustainable bike lane barrier 102 is then removed from the mold. In the illustrated embodiment, the catalyst enables the sustainable bike lane barrier 102 to be cured without the use of heat to cure the binder, substantially reducing costs and the complexity of the manufacturing process.

[0065] FIG. 9 illustrates several views of a sustainable bike lane barrier 902. FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of the sustainable bike lane barrier 902. The sustainable bike lane barrier 902 is substantially similar to the sustainable bike lane barrier 102 except the sustainable bike lane barrier 902 includes a platform 984 positioned on the redirecting top 146. The platform 984 is configured to support an accessory 986, such as, but not limited to, reflectors, flex posts and bollards, traffic signage, lights, high visibility materials, signposts, fencing, posts, and / or any other accessory that may be placed on top of the sustainable bike lane barrier 902.

[0066] In the illustrated embodiment, the platform 984 flares out from the sides 148 of the redirecting top 146 to make the top 104 wider to receive the accessory 986. The platform 984 defines a platform width 988 and a platform length 990. In the illustrated embodiment, the platform width 988 is approximately 9 inches to approximately 12 inches, and the platform length 990 is approximately 9 inches to approximately 24 inches. In alternative embodiments, the platform width 988 and the platform length 990 may be any length that enables the platform 984 to operate as described herein.

[0067] FIG. 11 illustrates several views of a sustainable bike lane barrier 1102. The sustainable bike lane barrier 1102 is substantially similar to the sustainable bike lane barrier 902 except the sustainable bike lane barrier 1102 does not include at least one first drainage slot 164 and / or at least one second drainage slot 166.

[0068] FIG. 12 illustrates several views of a sustainable bike lane system 1200. FIG. 13 illustrates several views of the sustainable bike lane barrier 1200. The sustainable bike lane system 1200 is substantially similar to the sustainable bike lane barrier system 100 except the sustainable bike lane barrier system 1200 includes two angled caps 1292 and 1294. The sustainable bike lane barriers 102 between the two angled caps 1292 and 1294 are the same as the sustainable bike lane barriers 102 in the sustainable bike lane system 100. The two angled caps 1292 and 1294 are configured to protect the cavity 114 and the protrusion 116 of the sustainable bike lane barriers 102 positioned on the end of the system 1200. Specifically, an angle δ of the two angled caps 1292 and 1294 is the same as the angle γ such that the ends of the system 1200 form a smooth angle from the top 104 of the sustainable bike lane barrier 102 to the ground.

[0069] FIG. 14 illustrates various views of a sustainable bike lane barrier system 1400. FIG. 15 illustrates various views of the sustainable bike lane barrier system 1400. The sustainable bike lane barrier system 1400 includes a plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers 1402 and 1404 configured to nest on top of each other to provide size flexibility for the sustainable bike lane barrier system 1400. Specifically, the sustainable bike lane barriers 1402 and 1404 include a small sustainable bike lane barrier 1402 and a large sustainable bike lane barrier 1404. The small sustainable bike lane barrier 1402 is configured to be secured to the ground or road by at least one fastener 1406, and the large sustainable bike lane barrier 1404 is configured to nest on top of the small sustainable bike lane barrier 1402. The large sustainable bike lane barrier 1404 is secured to the small sustainable bike lane barrier 1402 by at least one rod or dowl 1408 for easy removal.

[0070] In some jurisdictions, there are restrictions on the height of traffic barriers near buildings because emergency vehicles need access to the building. The sustainable bike lane barrier system 1400 provides height flexibility by including the large sustainable bike lane barrier 1404 nested over the top of the small sustainable bike lane barrier 1402. More specifically, a height of the small sustainable bike lane barrier 1402 is low enough to allow emergency vehicles to overcome the small sustainable bike lane barrier 1402 while still establishing a barrier between a bike lane and other traffic lanes. In the portions of the bike lane that require access for emergency vehicles, the small sustainable bike lane barrier 1402 is used to separate the bike lane from the rest of the road. In the portions of the bike lane that do not require access for emergency vehicles, the large sustainable bike lane barrier 1404 is nested on top of the small sustainable bike lane barrier 1402 to provide more protection.

[0071] Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the small sustainable bike lane barrier 1402 defines a small barrier height 1410, and the large sustainable bike lane barrier 1404 defines a large barrier height 1412. In the illustrated embodiment, the small barrier height 1410 is approximately 2 inches to approximately 6 inches, and the large barrier height 1412 is approximately 8 inches to approximately 24 inches. In alternative embodiments, the small barrier height 1410 and the large barrier height 1412 may be any length that enables the sustainable bike lane barrier system 1400 to operate as described herein.

[0072] As shown in FIG. 15, the large sustainable bike lane barrier 1404 is secured to the small sustainable bike lane barrier 1402 by at least one at least one rod or dowl 1408. The rods or dowls 1408 do not include threading and the large sustainable bike lane barrier 1404 is able to slide on and off of the rods 1408. As such, during operation, the height of the sustainable bike lane barrier system 1400 may be adjusted locally to suit the traffic needs at specific times. For example, if an event is planned on the street (such as a parade or a pop-up market), the large sustainable bike lane barriers 1404 can be removed from the small sustainable bike lane barriers 1402 to make walking easier for pedestrians during the event.

[0073] Similar to the sustainable bike lane barriers 102, the sustainable bike lane barriers 1402 and 1404 each include the redirecting top 146 with similar angles for redirecting vehicles. Additionally, the sustainable bike lane barriers 1402 and 1404 each include angled surfaces 1414 for reflectors 1416. Furthermore, the sustainable bike lane barrier system 1400 also includes a small cap 1418 and a large cap 1420 for protecting the ends of the system 1400. Similar to the large and small sustainable bike lane barriers 1402 and 1404, the large cap 1420 is configured to nest on top of the small cap 1418, and the large cap 1420 is secured to the small cap 1418 by a rod or dowl 1408 for easy and convenient size flexibility of the sustainable bike lane barrier system 1400.

[0074] Additionally, both of the sustainable bike lane barriers 1402 and 1404 define at least one reflector indentations 1422 configured to include at least one additional reflector 1424. The reflector indentations 1422 each include a plurality of surfaces oriented at different angles to increase the reflectivity of the additional reflectors 1424. More specifically, the location, size, and angle of the reflector indentations 1422 have been configured to increase the visibility of the sustainable bike lane barriers 1402 and 1404. In the illustrated embodiment, the sustainable bike lane barriers 1402 and 1404 each include four reflector indentations 1422. In alternative embodiments, the sustainable bike lane barriers 1402 and 1404 may each include any number of reflector indentations 1422 that enable the sustainable bike lane barriers 1402 and 1404 to operate as described herein.

[0075] FIG. 16 illustrates various views of a sustainable bike lane barrier system 1600. FIG. 17 illustrates various views of the sustainable bike lane barrier system 1600. The sustainable bike lane barrier system 1600 is similar to the sustainable bike lane barrier system 1400 except the small sustainable bike lane barriers are designed to be smaller than the small sustainable bike lane barriers 1402 and they are designed to interconnect the large sustainable bike lane barriers. Specifically, sustainable bike lane barrier system 1600 includes a plurality of small sustainable bike lane barriers 1602 and a plurality of large sustainable bike lane barriers 1604. In the illustrated embodiment, the small sustainable bike lane barriers 1602 each have a specific shape for connecting adjacent large sustainable bike lane barriers 1604 together.

[0076] Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the small sustainable bike lane barriers 1602 each have a shape that is similar to the shape of the inlay in a butterfly joint, a dutchman joint, and / or a Nakashima joint. More specifically, the shape is narrow in the middle and wide at the ends (like a bow tie or a butterfly) to prevent the small sustainable bike lane barriers 1602 from becoming detached from the large sustainable bike lane barriers 1604 during a collision. The large sustainable bike lane barriers 1604 include a cavity 1606 at each end having a size and shape that corresponds to the small sustainable bike lane barriers 1602. During assembly, of the sustainable bike lane barrier system 1600 the small sustainable bike lane barriers 1602 are secured to the road by at least one fastener 1608. When necessary, the large sustainable bike lane barriers 1604 slide onto the small sustainable bike lane barriers 1602 by sliding the cavities 1606 over the small sustainable bike lane barriers 1602. The large sustainable bike lane barriers 1604 are temporarily secured to the small sustainable bike lane barriers 1602 by a friction fit. The large sustainable bike lane barriers 1604 may then be removed from the small sustainable bike lane barriers 1602 by pulling upward on the large sustainable bike lane barriers 1604. When the large sustainable bike lane barriers 1604 are removed, only the small sustainable bike lane barriers 1602 remain on the road. This system 1600 enables the large sustainable bike lane barriers 1604 to be removed for events and other activities in the street.

[0077] FIG. 18 illustrates various views of a sustainable bike lane barrier system 1800. FIG. 19 illustrates various views of a portion of the sustainable bike lane barrier system 1800. FIG. 20 illustrates various views of a portion of the sustainable bike lane barrier system 1800. The sustainable bike lane barrier system 1800 is asymmetrical in shape and provides a flexible height to tailor the system to various locations along the bike lane route. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the sustainable bike lane barrier system 1800 includes a plurality of lower sustainable bike lane barriers 1802 and a plurality of upper sustainable bike lane barriers 1804. The lower sustainable bike lane barriers 1802 are low profile barriers that extend along the entire length or most of the length of the bike lane. The upper sustainable bike lane barriers 1804 are attached to a top 1806 of the lower sustainable bike lane barriers 1802 and configured to provide additional height and protection to select sections of the bike lane. For example, in low speed areas, pedestrian areas, or areas where emergency vehicles need access, the lower sustainable bike lane barriers 1802 separates the bike lane from the other lanes of traffic. In contrast, in high speed or traffic areas where there is increased risk of a collision or where emergency vehicles do not need access, the upper sustainable bike lane barriers 1804 are attached to the lower sustainable bike lane barriers 1802 and provide additional height and protection to cyclists.

[0078] As shown in FIG. 19, the lower sustainable bike lane barrier 1802 has a low profile and a lower barrier height 1808 of approximately 2 inches to approximately 6 inches. The low profile of the lower sustainable bike lane barriers 1802 is suitable for low speed areas, pedestrian areas, or areas where emergency vehicles need access. In contrast, the upper sustainable bike lane barrier 1804 has an asymmetric profile and an upper barrier height 1810 of approximately 6 inches to approximately 24 inches such that the sustainable bike lane barrier system 1800 has a system height 1812 of approximately 8 inches to approximately 30 inches when the upper sustainable bike lane barriers 1804 are attached to the lower sustainable bike lane barriers 1802. The high profile of the combined system provides substantial and robust protection for cyclists in select areas of the bike lane.

[0079] Additionally, as discussed above, the upper sustainable bike lane barrier 1804 has an asymmetric profile that increases protection of cyclist within the bike lane while simultaneously reducing the risk that the cyclist crashes into the sustainable bike lane barrier system 1800. More specifically, the upper sustainable bike lane barrier 1804 defines a vertical side 1814 and an angled side 1816. The vertical side 1814 is oriented at approximately 90° relative to the ground and is configured to be oriented away from the bike lane and towards other lanes of traffic. The angled side 1816 is oriented at approximately 120° relative to the ground and is oriented towards the bike lane and cyclists within the bike lane. The angled side 1816 is configured to allow the tires of a bike to ride up the angled side 1816 such that the bike is pushed back into the bike lane without injuring the cyclist. The vertical side 1814 is configured to prevent a vehicle entering into or impinging on a bike lane, at least partially resist impingement of the vehicle into the bike lane, or reduce the likelihood of a vehicle entering into a bike lane. Accordingly, the asymmetric profile of the sustainable bike lane barrier system 1800 increases the safety of bike lanes and cyclists.

[0080] FIG. 21 illustrates various views of a sustainable bike lane barrier system 2100. FIG. 22 illustrates various views of the sustainable bike lane barrier system 2100. The sustainable bike lane barrier system 2100 has an asymmetrical shape that increases protection of cyclists within the bike lane while simultaneously reducing the risk that the cyclist crashes into the sustainable bike lane barrier system 2100. More specifically, the sustainable bike lane barrier system 2100 includes a plurality of sustainable bike lane barrier 2102 that each include a base 2104 and a redirecting top 2106. The base 2104 provides stability to the sustainable bike lane barrier 2102 during a collision while the redirecting top 2106 increases a height 2108 of the sustainable bike lane barrier 2102 to protect cyclists from vehicles entering the bike lane. The combination of the stability provided by the base 2104 and the height 2108 provided by the redirecting top 2106 provides more protection for cyclists than less robust bike lane barrier separators. Additionally, the asymmetric profile of the redirecting top 2106 also increases the safety of bike lanes and cyclists.

[0081] Specifically, the base and the redirecting top 2106 together define a vertical side 2110, and the redirecting top 2106 defines an angled side 2112. The vertical side 2110 is oriented at approximately 90° relative to the ground and is configured to be oriented away from the bike lane and towards other lanes of traffic. The angled side 2112 is oriented at approximately 45° relative to the ground and is oriented towards the bike lane and cyclists within the bike lane. The angled side 2112 is configured to allow the tires of a bike to ride up the angled side 2112 such that the bike is pushed back into the bike lane without injuring the cyclist. The vertical side 2112 is configured to prevent a vehicle entering into or impinging on a bike lane, at least partially resist impingement of the vehicle into the bike lane, or reduce the likelihood of a vehicle entering into a bike lane. Accordingly, the asymmetric profile of the sustainable bike lane barrier system 2100 increases the safety of bike lanes and cyclists.

[0082] The systems and methods disclosed herein relate to, among other things, a sustainable bike lane barrier and a sustainable bike lane barrier system that may be used for a variety of purposes including use as a traffic barrier for bike lanes. The sustainable bike lane barriers described herein are formed of a waste material and a binder that binds the waste material into a specific shape for a specific use. Additionally, the waste material and the binder may be combined in different ratios with different compositions such that the material that forms the sustainable bike lane barrier may be tailored to specific uses. Moreover, the shape of the barriers may be tailored to a specific shape to suit a specific function. Accordingly, the sustainable bike lane barriers described herein are formed of a sustainable material with a tailored composition and shape to suit a specific function.

[0083] Specifically, in the illustrated embodiments, the waste material used to form the sustainable bike lane barriers described herein is used tires. In alternative embodiments, the waste material may be any material including, but not limited to, recycled plastics, recycled wood, and / or any other sustainable or recyclable material. The binder includes a polyurethane binder, an optional colorant, an optional catalyst, and a small amount of water. The used tires are ground to form a crumb rubber, and the binder is formulated to bind the crumb rubber into a formed sustainable bike lane barrier. Specifically, the binder has been formulated to bind the crumb rubber into the sustainable bike lane barrier without using heat. More specifically, the catalyst within the binder quickly forms the sustainable bike lane barrier such that heat is not required.

[0084] The shape of the sustainable bike lane barriers may also be tailored to different uses. That is, the mold used to cure the mixture may be configured to have different shapes such that the sustainable bike lane barriers are useful for other applications. For example, the sustainable bike lane barriers may have shapes suitable for specific traffic conditions. Specifically, in some embodiments, the sustainable bike lane barriers may interlock with each other to provide more stability during potential vehicle impacts. Additionally, the sustainable bike lane barriers may include a redirecting or angled top that is configured to lift the tire of a vehicle and push the vehicle back into its lane without damaging or harming the vehicle or its occupants. Thus, the shape of the sustainable bike lane barriers described herein are tailored to protect bike lanes and cyclists from vehicles entering a bike lane. That is, the sustainable bike lane barriers described herein have a shape that is tailored to prevent a vehicle entering into or impinging on a bike lane, at least partially resist impingement of the vehicle into the bike lane, or reduce the likelihood of a vehicle entering into a bike lane.

[0085] Moreover, the sustainable bike lane barrier systems and sustainable bike lane barriers described herein are designed to be interconnected and substantial or robust enough to prevent a vehicle inadvertently drifting into a bike lane and potentially saving a cyclist within the bike lane from a collision that could result in injury to the cyclist. More specifically, at least some bike lane barriers merely include barriers that are spaced apart at regular intervals to separate a bike lane from other lanes of traffic. The barriers are not connected to each other, and, as such, a collision with a vehicle may dislodge the barrier because other connected barriers do not provide additional support. Additionally, at least some bike lane barriers have are not substantial or robust enough to actually prevent or reduce the likelihood of a vehicle inadvertently drifting into the bike lane. For example, at least some bike lane barriers have a low or narrow profile such that the barriers merely act as speed bumps or notifications that the vehicle is drifting into the bike lane. In contrast, the sustainable bike lane barrier systems and sustainable bike lane barriers described herein are designed to be interconnected, fastened to the ground, and substantial or robust enough to prevent a vehicle entering into or impinging on a bike lane, at least partially resist impingement of the vehicle into the bike lane, or reduce the likelihood of a vehicle entering into a bike lane.

[0086] Specifically, the sustainable bike lane barrier systems and sustainable bike lane barriers described herein do not merely separate or delineate the bike lane from other lanes of traffic. Rather, the sustainable bike lane barrier systems and sustainable bike lane barriers described herein are substantial enough and robust enough to actually prevent or reduce the likelihood of a vehicle inadvertently drifting into the bike lane. More specifically, the sustainable bike lane barrier systems and sustainable bike lane barriers described herein have a width of approximately 8 inches to approximately 24 inches and a height of approximately 8 inches to approximately 36 inches. The width and height of the sustainable bike lane barrier systems and sustainable bike lane barriers described herein are significantly longer than other bike lane barriers such that the sustainable bike lane barrier systems and sustainable bike lane barriers described herein are significantly more robust than other bike lane barriers.

[0087] Additionally, the sustainable bike lane barrier systems and sustainable bike lane barriers described herein do not require any heavy lifting equipment for installation or repair. Repair and installation are easily performed using readily available tools, and a single typical city work truck has the ability to transport all necessary materials, tools, and personnel. As such, the sustainable bike lane barrier systems and sustainable bike lane barriers described herein are modular, adaptable, and versatile. The waste material that the sustainable bike lane barrier systems and sustainable bike lane barriers described herein are made from and the short sections of the barriers allow the systems to follow the natural curvature of the road and adapt to imperfections in the road surface. Furthermore, the interlocking mechanism of the barriers enables the barriers to intentionally curve and follow the natural curvature of the road.

[0088] Finally, the sustainable bike lane barrier systems and sustainable bike lane barriers described herein are capable of easily receiving accessories to suit the needs of the municipality. For example, accessories such as reflectors, flex posts and bollards, traffic signage, lights, high visibility materials, and / or signposts. The traffic signage may include signs that provide directions or instructions such as merge signs, bikes only signs, arrows, one way signs, stop signs, yield signs, and / or any other sign. The waste materials that form the barriers easily receive a bolt or screw that can secure the accessories to the barrier. For example, simple wood screws or lag bolts can attach most accessories, with no need for pre-drilling or having to use epoxies and glues. In contrast, barriers made of concrete do not easily receive accessories because concrete is difficult to drill into and may become brittle. As such, the sustainable bike lane barrier systems and sustainable bike lane barriers described herein are capable of easily receiving accessories to suit the needs of the municipality.

[0089] The description set forth herein, in connection with the appended drawings, describes example configurations and does not represent all the examples that may be implemented or that are within the scope of the claims. The term “exemplary” used herein means “serving as an example, instance, or illustration,” and not “preferred” or “advantageous over other examples.” The detailed description includes specific details for the purpose of providing an understanding of the described techniques. These techniques, however, may be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to avoid obscuring the concepts of the described examples.

[0090] In the appended figures, similar components or features may have the same reference label. Further, various components of the same type may be distinguished by following the reference label by a dash and a second label that distinguishes among the similar components. If just the first reference label is used in the specification, the description is applicable to any one of the similar components having the same first reference label irrespective of the second reference label.

[0091] The description herein is provided to enable a person skilled in the art to make or use the disclosure. Various modifications to the disclosure will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other variations without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Thus, the disclosure is not limited to the examples and designs described herein, but is to be accorded the broadest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.Terminology and Interpretative Conventions

[0092] Any methods described in the claims or specification should not be interpreted to require the steps to be performed in a specific order unless stated otherwise. Also, the methods should be interpreted to provide support to perform the recited steps in any order unless stated otherwise.

[0093] Spatial or directional terms, such as “left,”“right,”“front,”“back,” and the like, relate to the subject matter as it is shown in the drawings. However, it is to be understood that the described subject matter may assume various alternative orientations and, accordingly, such terms are not to be considered as limiting.

[0094] Articles such as “the,”“a,” and “an” can connote the singular or plural. Also, the word “or” when used without a preceding “either” (or other similar language indicating that “or” is unequivocally meant to be exclusive—e.g., only one of x or y, etc.) shall be interpreted to be inclusive (e.g., “x or y” means one or both x or y).

[0095] The term “and / or” shall also be interpreted to be inclusive (e.g., “x and / or y” means one or both x or y). In situations where “and / or” or “or” are used as a conjunction for a group of three or more items, the group should be interpreted to include one item alone, all the items together, or any combination or number of the items.

[0096] The terms have, having, include, and including should be interpreted to be synonymous with the terms comprise and comprising. The use of these terms should also be understood as disclosing and providing support for narrower alternative embodiments where these terms are replaced by “consisting” or “consisting essentially of.”

[0097] Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers or expressions, such as those expressing dimensions, physical characteristics, and the like, used in the specification (other than the claims) are understood to be modified in all instances by the term “approximately.” At the very least, and not as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the claims, each numerical parameter recited in the specification or claims which is modified by the term “approximately” should be construed in light of the number of recited significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques.

[0098] All disclosed ranges are to be understood to encompass and provide support for claims that recite any and all subranges or any and all individual values subsumed by each range. For example, a stated range of 1 to 10 should be considered to include and provide support for claims that recite any and all subranges or individual values that are between and / or inclusive of the minimum value of 1 and the maximum value of 10; that is, all subranges beginning with a minimum value of 1 or more and ending with a maximum value of 10 or less (e.g., 5.5 to 10, 2.34 to 3.56, and so forth) or any values from 1 to 10 (e.g., 3, 5.8, 9.9994, and so forth).

[0099] All disclosed numerical values are to be understood as being variable from 0-100% in either direction and thus provide support for claims that recite such values or any and all ranges or subranges that can be formed by such values. For example, a stated numerical value of 8 should be understood to vary from 0 to 16(100 % in either direction) and provide support for claims that recite the range itself (e.g., 0 to 16), any subrange within the range (e.g., 2 to 12.5) or any individual value within that range (e.g., 15.2).

[0100] The terms recited in the claims should be given their ordinary and customary meaning as determined by reference to relevant entries in widely used general dictionaries and / or relevant technical dictionaries, commonly understood meanings by those in the art, etc., with the understanding that the broadest meaning imparted by any one or combination of these sources should be given to the claim terms (e.g., two or more relevant dictionary entries should be combined to provide the broadest meaning of the combination of entries, etc.) subject only to the following exceptions: (a) if a term is used in a manner that is more expansive than its ordinary and customary meaning, the term should be given its ordinary and customary meaning plus the additional expansive meaning, or (b) if a term has been explicitly defined to have a different meaning by reciting the term followed by the phrase “as used in this document shall mean” or similar language (e.g., “this term means,”“this term is defined as,”“for the purposes of this disclosure this term shall mean,” etc.). References to specific examples, use of “i.e.,” use of the word “invention,” etc., are not meant to invoke exception (b) or otherwise restrict the scope of the recited claim terms. Other than situations where exception (b) applies, nothing contained in this document should be considered a disclaimer or disavowal of claim scope.

[0101] The subject matter recited in the claims is not coextensive with and should not be interpreted to be coextensive with any embodiment, feature, or combination of features described or illustrated in this document. This is true even if only a single embodiment of the feature or combination of features is illustrated and described in this document.

Claims

1. A sustainable bike lane barrier system comprising:a plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers interconnected with each other, each sustainable bike lane barrier of the plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers comprises a protrusion and a cavity, wherein the protrusion of a first sustainable bike lane barrier of the plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers is inserted into the cavity of a second sustainable bike lane barrier of the plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers; andat least one fastener extending through the protrusion of the first sustainable bike lane barrier, the cavity of the second sustainable bike lane barrier, and into the ground to interlock the plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers and to secure the sustainable bike lane barrier system to the ground.

2. The sustainable bike lane barrier system of claim 1, wherein each sustainable bike lane barrier of the plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers comprises:a waste material;a binder mixed with the waste material and configured to bind the waste material into the sustainable bike lane barrier, wherein the binder comprises a catalyst configured to enable the binder to bind the waste material into the sustainable bike lane barrier.

3. The sustainable bike lane barrier system of claim 1, wherein each sustainable bike lane barrier of the plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers defines a sustainable bike lane barrier height of at least 8 inches.

4. The sustainable bike lane barrier system of claim 1, wherein each sustainable bike lane barrier of the plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers defines a sustainable bike lane barrier width of at least 8 inches.

5. The sustainable bike lane barrier system of claim 1, wherein each sustainable bike lane barrier of the plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers comprises a base and a redirecting top.

6. The sustainable bike lane barrier system of claim 5, wherein the redirecting top comprises a flat top and two angled sides.

7. The sustainable bike lane barrier system of claim 6, wherein the two angled sides are each oriented at an angle of up to 120° relative to grade.

8. The sustainable bike lane barrier system of claim 6, wherein the redirecting top further comprises two angled narrow ends.

9. The sustainable bike lane barrier system of claim 8, wherein the two angled narrow ends are each oriented at an angle of at least 25° relative to the flat top.

10. The sustainable bike lane barrier system of claim 9, wherein one of the two angled narrow ends defines a fastener cutout that defines a flat surface positioned above the cavity and configured to receive the at least one fastener.

11. A sustainable bike lane barrier system comprising:a plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers interconnected with each other, each sustainable bike lane barrier of the plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers comprises a protrusion, a cavity, and a platform positioned on a top of the sustainable bike lane barrier, wherein the protrusion of a first sustainable bike lane barrier of the plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers is inserted into the cavity of a second sustainable bike lane barrier of the plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers;at least one fastener extending through the protrusion of the first sustainable bike lane barrier, the cavity of the second sustainable bike lane barrier, and into the ground to interlock the plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers and to secure the sustainable bike lane barrier system to the ground; andat least one accessory attached to the platform.

12. The sustainable bike lane barrier system of claim 11, wherein the at least one accessory comprises reflectors, flex posts and bollards, traffic signage, lights, high visibility materials, or signposts.

13. The sustainable bike lane barrier system of claim 11, wherein each sustainable bike lane barrier of the plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers comprises:a waste material;a binder mixed with the waste material and configured to bind the waste material into the sustainable bike lane barrier, wherein the binder comprises a catalyst configured to enable the binder to bind the waste material into the sustainable bike lane barrier.

14. The sustainable bike lane barrier system of claim 11, wherein each sustainable bike lane barrier of the plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers defines a sustainable bike lane barrier height of at least 8 inches.

15. The sustainable bike lane barrier system of claim 11, wherein each sustainable bike lane barrier of the plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers defines a sustainable bike lane barrier width of at least 8 inches.

16. A sustainable bike lane barrier system comprising:a plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers positioned next to each other, each sustainable bike lane barrier of the plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers defines an asymmetrical shape including at least one vertical side configured to be oriented away from a bike lane and at least one angled side configured to be oriented toward the bike lane; andat least one fastener extending through each sustainable bike lane barrier of the plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers and into the ground to secure the sustainable bike lane barrier system to the ground.

17. The sustainable bike lane barrier system of claim 16, wherein each sustainable bike lane barrier of the plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers comprises a lower sustainable bike lane barrier and an upper sustainable bike lane barrier attached to a top of the lower sustainable bike lane barrier.

18. The sustainable bike lane barrier system of claim 17, wherein the upper sustainable bike lane barrier defines the at least one vertical side and the at least one angled side.

19. The sustainable bike lane barrier system of claim 17, wherein at least one lower sustainable bike lane barrier does not include the upper sustainable bike lane barrier attached to the top of the lower sustainable bike lane barrier.

20. The sustainable bike lane barrier system of claim 16, wherein each sustainable bike lane barrier of the plurality of sustainable bike lane barriers comprises:a waste material;a binder mixed with the waste material and configured to bind the waste material into the sustainable bike lane barrier, wherein the binder comprises a catalyst configured to enable the binder to bind the waste material into the sustainable bike lane barrier.

Images