Articulated barrier
Patent Information
- Application Number
- PCT/US2025/016289
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-02-18
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-27
Smart Images
Figure US2025016289_27082026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] SPECIFICATION
[0002] TO ALL WHOM IT MAY CONCERN
[0003] Be it known that we, Tyler Brookhart, George Brookhart, and Darin Dittman, citizens of the United States, have invented new and useful improvements in an articulated barrier as described in this specification.
[0004] COPYRIGHT NOTICE
[0005] Some portions of the disclosure of this patent document may contain material subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or ensuing disclosure as it appears on record at the Patent and Trademark Office but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.
[0006] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0007] Various types of traffic barricades and barriers are known in the prior art. Traffic barricades and barriers may be categorized by type (for example, as pedestrian barricades, traffic barriers, and construction barricades) or by duration (such as by temporary or permanent barriers).
[0008] Traffic barricades and barriers include traffic cones (the familiar orange cones), bollards (short cylindrical posts), A-frame barriers (erectable, fence-like structures typically comprising parallel slats disposed horizontally between legs or posts), barrels (typically ballastable), and parapets (more substantial, prismatic barriers which may be ballastable or heavyweight such as reinforced concrete, including, for example, so-called “Jersey” barriers).Generally, solid and ballastable parapets are devised to absorb substantial impact and not just signal closure or restricted access as is typically the case for pedestrian and temporary or less permanent barriers. Heavyweight parapets used to divide traffic lanes and section off construction areas along highways and roads, for example, are frequently devised of reinforced concert, serried along a perimeter connected end to end in a secure manner to resist separation under impact. Different means of effectuating secure interconnection of these parapets is seen in the art. Some provide for interlocking surfaces into which additional locking elements may be secured (e.g.j U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,722,282 and 8,864,108). Some require bolting together (e.g. U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,654,768 and 8,079,774). Others devise exterior frames which gird sections of the parapet and effectively bind them together e.g.j U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,666,616; 7,600,942; and 7,351,002). Still more provide seating of sections of the parapet into a base element e.g.j U.S. Pat. No. 11,773,549). Some enable articulated interconnection, to position a contiguous barrier around a curved or cornered extent (e.g.j U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,416,364 and 7,537,411). Frequently, some sort of complementary bracketing system is employed (e.g.j U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,416,364; 9,127,424; and 11,028,545).
[0009] However, what is needed is an improved articulated barrier that enables securement of sections together while enabling some articulated movement through at least one degree of freedom and which is additionally stablizable by insertion of a stake member which may include signaling elements.
[0010] FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0011] The present invention relates to a barriers and barricades generally, and more particularly, to an articulated barrier devised to present a sectional barrier, barricade, or parapetwhich is configured to separate between sections along a specific separation length and rotate sections relative to each other within a defined deflection angle and thereby accommodate a sequence of stages of separation and rotation.
[0012] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0013] Traffic barriers are incorporated into urban planning to safeguard pedestrian and cycle traffic and to control, separate, and restrict traffic within designated lanes along specified routes. Generally, traffic barriers may be categorized into permanent, semi-permanent, and temporary barriers or barricades, generally devised to divert and direct vehicular traffic and separate traffic lanes or restrict vehicular and pedestrian entry into barricaded areas such as road closures, construction zones, and maintenance areas. Such barriers are generally modular, consisting of sections which are connectable or arrangeable together to cover a desired extent or to demark a required boundary.
[0014] Generally, more permanent or heavy barriers used to restrict vehicular traffic and divide traffic lanes (referred to as “parapets” herein) comprise a prismatic extent which, in the case of more temporary barriers, may be ballastable to add mass (such as the additionality of sand or water to fill an interior volume) or, in the case of more permanent barriers (or barriers with a desired higher impact tolerance), be rendered of concrete or a reinforced concrete substrate. Such parapets are typically comprised of relatively large, generally prismatic sections connectable end to end to serry a boundary without gaps. Interconnection of the relevant sections is typically effectuated by correlated elements or forms that are devised to fit the sections together by sliding or complementary seating or engagement, whereby the barrier is joinable into an aggregatedwhole. Integrity is increased by use of coupling or connecting elements to secure the sections together.
[0015] The present articulated barrier provides a novel coupling system between adjacent sections of a parapet, barrier or barricade, which system allows for an amount of play within at least one degree of freedom when the mass of a section is displaced relative to an adjacent section, as when the barrier is subjected to concentrated and substantial force as may occur during vehicular impact for example. A slight separation and rotation of sections is accommodated, within approximately 6° to 6.7° of play, whereby force of impact may be absorbed to some degree within this “separation length” and “displacement angle.” However, the coupling system prevents complete separation of the sections (unless the structural integrity of the materials is completely compromised causing the coupling elements to entirely fail and break apart).
[0016] The current articulated barrier, therefore, has been devised to enable expedient erection, coupling adjacent sections together along vertical axes whereby a male connector is embraced by a female connector. Separation of the sections is effectuated by lifting either section relative to the other up a specific vertical distance to decouple the male and female connectors’ embrace. In an example embodiment contemplated herein, the male connector generally includes a tubular section oriented generally vertically, connected with a flange member which may be integrated with the end of a parapet or barrier section and interconnected with reinforcing rebar or other lattice or strengthening elements disposed therein. In this example embodiment, the tubular section is disposed to enclose an open channel therethrough. In this example embodiment, the female connector includes at least a pair of plate members set vertically and spaced a part inparallel to define an intermediary space. The intermediary space is sized to accommodate the tubular section of the male connector therebetween. In this example embodiment, each of the pair of plate members includes a deflected portion terminating edgewise thereupon wherein each of the plate members presents a terminal edge more proximal to each other than the plate members proper. Thus, the intermediary space is narrowed between the terminal edges of the pair of plate members. The female connector may also be set endwise in a section of the articulated barrier interconnected with interior reinforcing elements, such as rebar or other lattice or strengthening elements.
[0017] The tubular section of the male connector includes an outer radius or transverse axis that is greater than the width of the intermediary space disposed between the terminal edges of the pair of plate members. The tubular section of the male connector is therefore prevented from passage between the terminal edges of the plate members. The flange member, however, readily fits between the terminal edges. Thus, the amount of separation and displacement which can be borne between the two sections of the articulated boundary is a function of the length of the x axis of the flange member and the length and angle of deflection of the deflected portions. In an example embodiment contemplated herein, the deflected portions are disposed at approximately 45° relative to the plate members and the angle of deflection accommodated between the sections of the articulated barrier is contemplated to be approximately 6° to 6.7°. This angle of deflection may be accommodated in one or two degrees of freedom, namely within a transverse plane relative to the longitudinal axis of the sections of the articulated barrier, but also within a sagittal plane relative thereto. The length of separation is the length of the flange member x-axis.Movement of sections of the articulated barrier relative to each other along the length of separation and within the angle of deflection may absorb force of impact. This movement accommodates a sequence of stages of separation and rotation before failure. The articulated barrier is generally situational in a closed position (with ends of adjacent sections abutting or almost abutting) to an open position (with ends linearly separated along the length of separation), and from the open position to a rotated position (with ends angularly separated through the deflection angle).
[0018] The articulated barrier may be further secured in situ by action of a stake member inserted through the open channel of the male connector. This stake member may be driven into the underlying ground surface a certain depth, or be otherwise anchored, and may also include signaling elements interconnectable therewith. Where a signaling element is electrical (such as a light, for example), it may be interconnectable with a power source in circuit by contact of at least portions of the stake member with at least corresponding portions of the male connector, or be battery or solar powered, for example. Additional means of powering or connecting an electrical signaling device in circuit are contemplated as within scope of this disclosure.
[0019] The present invention also contemplates means of interconnecting reinforcing elements with the male and female connectors by which to distribute impact force throughout the articulated barrier and through the coupling of each section as well as to increase integrity of the articulated barrier as a whole. At least one elongate reinforcing member is contemplated to be situated interior to each section of the articulated barrier. This reinforcing member may comprise rebar or other material exhibiting a requisite tensile strength. Ends of the reinforcing member are configured to engage with or against the flange member at one end and the pair of plate membersat the other. In an example embodiment contemplated herein, the at least one reinforcing member is configured to engage ends against or around a transverse member disposed through the flange member at one end and the pair of plate members at the other. Additional and other means of effectuating interconnection of the at least one reinforcing member and the male and female connectors by which to distribute force of impact throughout the articulated barrier, as well as bolster the integrity of the barrier as a whole, are contemplated as within scope of this disclosure.
[0020] In an example embodiment contemplated herein, the transverse members and corresponding portion so of each flange member and pair of plate members configured to engage therewith, are molded into ends of each section of the articulated barrier. In an example embodiment contemplated herein, the sections of the articulated barrier are rendered of reinforced concrete, however, it should be understood by persons skilled in the art that other and additional materials from which to render the sections are contemplated herein, the essential details regarding the inventive disclosure common to joining barriers and barricades in general without deviating from the essential structures as set forth herein.
[0021] Thus has been broadly outlined the more important features of the present articulated barrier so that the detailed description thereof that follows may be better understood and in order that the present contribution to the art may be better appreciated. Objects of the present articulated barrier are particularly pointed out in the claims forming a part of this disclosure. For better understanding of the articulated barrier, its operating advantages and specific objects attained by its uses, example embodiments of the articulated barrier are set forth in the accompanying drawings and description.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0022] FIGURES
[0023] Figure 1 is an elevation view of an example embodiment of a male connector.
[0024] Figure 2 is an elevation view of an example embodiment of a female connector.
[0025] Figure 3 is top-diagonal elevation view of an example embodiment of a male connector engaged interior to an intermediary space of an example embodiment of a female connector.
[0026] Figure 4 is an elevation view of an example embodiment of a male connector installed in a parapet or barrier whereby a tubular section is disposed outfacing from an end of the parapet or barrier.
[0027] Figure 5 is an elevation view of an example embodiment of a female connector installed in a parapet or barrier whereby a pair of plate members is disposed outfacing from an end of the parapet or barrier.
[0028] Figure 6 is a transparent elevation view of a parapet or barrier having example an embodiment of a male connector installed at one end an example embodiment of a female connector installed at the other end which are both interconnected with reinforcing elements disposed longitudinally through the parapet or barrier.
[0029] Figure 7 is a series of raised side elevation views of an example embodiment of a male connector engaged with an example embodiment of a female connector at varying degrees of separation between a closed position and an open position.Figure 8 is a side elevation view of an example embodiment of a male connector engaged with a female connector wherein the male connector has partially rotated within a sagittal plane relative to the female connector.
[0030] Figure 9 is a raised elevation view of an example embodiment of a male connector engaged with a female connector wherein the male connector has partially rotated in a transverse plane relative to the female connector.
[0031] Figure 10A illustrates an example embodiment of a parapet or barrier foreshortened for purposes of illustration, showing sections of the parapet or barrier in a closed position.
[0032] Figure 10B illustrates the example embodiment of the parapet or barrier shown in Figure 10A, but with the parapet or barrier illustrated transparently wherein example embodiments of the male and female connectors are rendered visible therein.
[0033] Figure 11A is a top elevation view of an example embodiment of a parapet or barrier foreshortened for purposes of illustration, showing sections of the parapet or barrier separated to an open position along a longitudinal axis relative to the parapet or barrier.
[0034] Figure 11B illustrates the example embodiment of the parapet or barrier shown in Figure 11A, but with the parapet or barrier illustrated transparently wherein example embodiments of the male and female connectors are rendered visible therein.
[0035] Figure 12A is a side elevation view of an example embodiment of a parapet or barrier foreshortened for purposes of illustration, showing removal or installation of a section of the parapet or barrier via vertical translational movement relative thereto whereby example embodiments of the male and female connectors are either coupled and decoupled.Figure 12B illustrates the example embodiment of the parapet or barrier shown in Figure 12A, but with the parapet or barrier illustrated transparently wherein example embodiments of the male and female connectors are rendered visible therein.
[0036] Figure 13A is a side elevation view of an example embodiment of a parapet or barrier foreshortened for purposes of illustration, showing sections of the parapet or barrier rotated to an open position within a transverse plane relative thereto.
[0037] Figure 13B illustrates the example embodiment of the parapet or barrier shown in Figure 13A, but with the parapet or barrier illustrated transparently wherein example embodiments of the male and female connectors are rendered visible therein.
[0038] Figure 14A is a side elevation view of an example embodiment of a parapet or barrier foreshortened for purposes of illustration, showing sections of the parapet or barrier rotated to an open position within a sagittal plane relative thereto.
[0039] Figure 14B illustrates the example embodiment of the parapet or barrier shown in Figure 14A, but with the parapet or barrier illustrated transparently wherein example embodiments of the male and female connectors are rendered visible therein.
[0040] Figure 15 is an elevation view of an example embodiment of a stake member insertable through an example embodiment of a male connector to further secure a parapet or barrier in position as well as to support signaling elements (as shown in FIG. 16).
[0041] Figure 16 illustrates a variety of example embodiments of a parapet or barrier in use and shows a variety of signaling elements installed to example embodiments of a stake member as well as an example embodiment of a divider or privacy screen.Figure 17 illustrates a sequence showing an example embodiment of a parapet or barrier correcting velocity of an automobile after a collision therewith.
[0042] Figure 18 illustrates an example embodiment of a parapet or barrier showing drainage under channels disposed in the parapet or barrier.
[0043] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0044] In order that the present articulated barrier may be more readily understood by persons skilled in the art, example embodiments are included herein in illustration. These figures are supplied as examples only and should not be construed to limit the claimed subject matter. It should be understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art, where not diverging from the inventive matter set forth and claimed, some variation is contemplated as within scope of this disclosure. For example, some example embodiments herein are depicted in use with parapets and heavy-duty reinforced concrete barriers used to divide traffic lanes and protect pedestrians from vehicular traffic. However, it should be readily understood, that the instant invention is applicable with other barriers and barricades, including temporary and more lightweight barriers and barricades seen in the traffic and pedestrian arts. The terms “barrier,” “barricade,” and “parapet” are used herein synonymously throughout whereby the instant articulated barrier, designated by the numeral 10 herein, should be understood as including any barrier for which joining of adjacent sections may be desirable to section one area off from another, even where a particular barrier or barricade or parapet is illustrated in exemplification thereof.
[0045] Turning now to FIG. 1, example embodiment of male connector 100 is shown. Male connector 100 is devised for use with female connector 200 (see, e.g, FIG. 3) and includes tubular section 102 and flange member 104. Apertures 108 are disposed through flange member 104 bywhich male connector 100 may, in this example embodiment, interconnect with reinforcing elements 500 disposed interior to barrier 10 with which male connector 100 is devised for use.
[0046] In the example embodiment shown, tubular section 102 includes a 2” outer diameter and a 93 / 8” length. In the example embodiment depicted, flange member 104 is disposed edgewise upon surface of tube member 102 and extends 4 ” perpendicularly therefrom. Flange member 104 is %” thick, 4 ” wide, and 6” tall. Tubular section 102 extends 1 5 / 8” above and below flange member 104. Open channel 106 extends through tubular section 102. Two 1” diameter apertures 108 are disposed through flange member 104 through which cross bars 70 engage. In this example embodiment, cross bars 70 are disposed to engage with reinforcing elements 500 disposed interior to barrier 10, as shown for example in FIG. 6. In the example embodiment depicted in FIG. 1, flange member 104 may be anchored interior to ends of a barrier 10. Additional and other means of anchoring male connector to a barrier, barricade, or parapet are contemplated as within scope of this disclosure. In the example embodiment depicted, male connector 100 is contemplated to be wrought of steel or other metal, alloy, or material suited to the purpose.
[0047] FIG. 2 illustrates an example embodiment of female connector 200. Female connector 200 includes pair of plate members 202, disposed spaced apart and generally parallel on either side of intermediary space 300. Each of pair of plate members 202 includes deflected portion 204 deflected approximately 45° towards each other. Intermediary space 300 is narrowed at gap 302 between ends of deflected portions 204 relative to intermediary space 300. Pair of plate members 202 includes apertures 208 disposed through each of said pair of plate members 202, wherethrough reinforcing elements 500 interior to barrier 10 are enabled to interconnect. Femaleconnector 200, therefore, is disposed with at least a substantial portion of each of the pair of plate members 202 disposed anchored at or interior to an end of a barrier 10. In the example embodiment illustrated, female connector 200 is devised for situation upon a concrete parapet, with portions anchored interior to reinforced concrete {see, e.g, FIGS. 4 and 5). Pair of plate members 202 is anchored with each plate member 202 spaced apart such that tubular section 102 of male connector 100 may be slidingly engaged into intermediary space 300 by vertical positioning but prevented from separation therefrom by horizontal displacement. In other words, intermediary space 300 has a width that is greater than the outer diameter of tubular section 102, but gap 302 between deflected portions 204 is less than the outer diameter of tubular section 102. In the example embodiment depicted, female connector 200 is contemplated to be wrought of steel or other metal, alloy, or material suited to the purpose.
[0048] FIG. 3 illustrates interconnection of example embodiments of male and female connectors 100, 200 wherein tubular section 102 is accommodated within intermediary space 300 between plate members 202. Gap 302 impedes movement of tubular section 102 therethrough. In the example embodiment shown, at least substantial portions of flange member 104 and plate members 202 are anchored interior to barrier 10. Reinforcing cross bars 70 are disposed through apertures 108, 208 and are in turn interconnected with additional reinforcing elements 500 see, e.g., FIG 6). In this example embodiment, reinforcing elements 500 may be rebar or other steel or compound rods or latticework wrought interior to barrier 10. As can be seen, separation or interconnection of male and female connectors 100, 200 is enabled by vertical relative motion. Raising either connector 100, 200 relative to the other a distance sufficient to clear tubular section 102 from intermediary space 300 enables decoupling of adjacent sections 12, 14. Eachsection of barrier 10 can thus be lowered into position to interconnect with adjacent sections of said barrier.
[0049] FIG. 4 illustrates an example embodiment of male connector 100 anchored to parapet 10. In this example embodiment, male connector 100 is disposed to protrude approximately 3.1” out of parapet surface 20. In this example embodiment, male connector 100 is anchored within parapet recess 22, which is itself 14” wide and at least 3.1” deep. Parapet 10 comprises a generally triangular cross section, with rounded apex 50. Channel 30 runs longitudinally under parapet footing 24 for drainage. Transverse channel 32 runs under parapet 10 between parapet footings 24 to enable drainage thereunder. See, e.g., FIG 18.
[0050] FIG. 5 shows an example embodiment of complementary female connector 200. In this example embodiment, at least a portion of each plate member 202 is disposed anchored interiorly to surface 20 of parapet 10. Longitudinal channel 30 is more readily visible in this depiction, because female connector 200 is disposed, in this example embodiment, outfacing from surface 20 without equivalent recess 22 as shown in FIG. 4. End surfaces 26 of parapet 10 sections 12 and 14 are therefor able to abut when male and female connectors 100, 200 are engaged.
[0051] In this example embodiment shown in FIG. 5, plate members 202 have a length of approximately 3.25” and are each disposed protruding from parapet surface 20 with lowermost edge 206 disposed approximately 8.25” off the ground. Deflected portions 204 present gap 302 narrowed with respect to intermediary space 300 whereby passage of tubular section 102 of male connector 100 is prevented passage through gap 302 but accommodated interior to intermediary space 300.
[0052] FIG. 6 illustrates an example embodiment wherein male and female connectors 100, 200are interconnected with interior reinforcing elements 500 run through barrier 10. In this example embodiment, reinforcing elements 500 comprise four parallel connector struts run with ends engaged against or upon cross bars 70 which laterally thread through apertures 108 in flange member 104 (at one end of parapet 10, whereat male connector 100 is disposed) and plate members 202 (at the other end of parapet 10, where female connector 200 is disposed). Force applied to interconnected male and female connectors 100, 200, therefore, is distributed along and through reinforcing elements 500, thereby increasing integrity of the articulated barrier 10 under stress.
[0053] An example embodiment of stake member 60 is also shown in FIG. 6. In this example embodiment, stake member 60 increases stability of parapet 10 by staking through open channel 106 in tubular section 102 of male connector 100 into the ground surface or other casing, footing, or caisson. Stake member 60 thus pins parapet 10 at ends whereat male connector 100 is disposed. Where sections of parapet 10 are joined together, stake member 60 may be used to further anchor barrier 10 in position and to post signaling elements 62 (such as signage, lights, or other elements such as extendible fencing or dividers or privacy screens) thereupon, as is detailed herein below.
[0054] An amount of translational and rotational separation, play, displacement, or movement between male and female connectors 100, 200 is accommodated within and by intermediary space 300. Linear separation is enabled axially in parallel with barrier 10’s longitudinal axis and accommodated between a closed position to an open position, defined by the span between barrier 10 exterior surface 20 and deflected portion, or 3.25” in the example embodiment shown herein (that is, essentially the length of the plate member protruding from surface 20 to thedeflected portion).
[0055] As shown in FIG. 7, linear separation is accommodated between the closed position and the open position. See also FIG. 10A and 10B (closed position) and 11A and 11B (open position). Such expansion between sections 12, 14 of barrier 10, for example, allows for some absorption of force under impact.
[0056] FIGS. 7A, 7B, and 7C depict stages of linear, translational separation of example embodiments of male and female connectors 100, 200 in the direction of the longitudinal axis of barrier 10, or within a sagittal plane relative to barrier 10. FIG. 7 A depicts the closed position, with male and female connectors 100, 200 in closest connection; FIG. 7B depicts linear separation with tubular section 102 moved to a position in the middle of intermediary space 300; and FIG. 7C depicts maximum linear separation for the example embodiment depicted, wherein sections of parapet 10 are disposed furthest apart while maintaining interconnection between male and female connectors 100, 200.
[0057] As shown in FIG. 8, rotational deflection, play, or movement is also enabled along thej / -axis relative to barrier 10, or within a coronal plane relative thereto, wherein tubular section 102 of male connector 100 may position angularly to some degree interior to intermediary space 300, thereby allowing some give or play. (As has been described previously, and is evident from the depictions herein, translational vertical movement between male and female connectors 100, 200 enables separation of interconnected barriers where male connector 100 (or alternatively, female connector 200) is lifted sufficiently for tubular section 102 to clear intermediary space 300.) FIG. 9 illustrates rotational deflection between example embodiments of male and female connectors 100, 200 within the 2-axis relative to barrier 10, or within a transverse plane relativethereto. Deflection of male and female connectors 100, 200 within a transverse plane relative to barrier 10 enables rotational displacement of sections 12, 14 whereby force of impact is absorbed. These situations and stages of separation and deflection are further illustrated in FIGS. 10A, 10B (closed barrier); 11A, 11B (linear separation along the x-axis); 12A, 12 B (vertical separation or installation of sections); 13A, 13B (lateral displacement along the ^-axis); and 14A, 14B (displacement upon the j / - axis). In each of these said FIGS., example embodiments of barrier 10 have been foreshortened for purposes of illustration and, in these example embodiments, are depicted generally as parapets. Reinforcing elements 500, as shown in example embodiment in FIG. 6, for example, have not been included for means of clarity in visual representation; however, in the example embodiments depicted, reinforcing elements 500 are contemplated to engage against cross bars 70 to distribute force of impact therethrough and increase integrity of the articulated barrier 10 across all sections 12, 14, 16 in use.
[0058] In the example embodiments shown, the configuration of female connector 200 in relation to male connector 100 is such that translational movement of approximately 3.25” is accommodated in linear separation of sections 12, 14, 16 in the direction of the longitudinal axes of parapet 10 and approximately 6 to 6.7° rotational play is enabled in rotational displacement.
[0059] FIG. 15 illustrates a detail view of barrier 10 wherein stake member 60 is shown configured for insertion through open channel 106 disposed in tubular section 102 of male connector 100. Stake member 60 is configured to anchor into the ground surface, footing, casing, caisson, or other structure underlying barrier 10. Stake member 60 may include additional features and signaling elements 62, such as signage or lighting, or may support or extend screening elements for privacy. See, e.g., FIG. 16D.In the example embodiment depicted in FIG. 16A, barrier 10 is shown dividing bicycle lane 80 from roadway 90. Signage 62 is incorporated upon stake member 60 at end of section 12. On the other side of roadway 90, barrier 10 has been installed to section off outside dining area 40. Privacy screen or fencing 64 is shown installed between stake members 60 to obstruct line of sight and to dampen noise of traffic on roadway 90.
[0060] FIG. 16B shows an example embodiment where a light or other illuminable member 62 is installed to stake member 60. Means of interconnecting illuminable member 62 with power are contemplated as within scope of this disclosure, including, for example, by wires run along, upon, or even interior to barrier 10. FIG. 16C illustrates an example embodiment of stake member 60 having signage 62 installed to signal a traffic pattern or, as in this example embodiment, presence of a crosswalk, to road -users traveling proximal to barrier 10. Additional and other signs and signals are contemplated as within scope of this disclosure, including but not limited to, traffic lights, traffic signs, alerts, warnings, speed signals, sensors, and other measuring devices and signals (not shown).
[0061] FIG. 16D illustrates an example embodiment of fencing, divider, or privacy screen 64 supported by stake member 60 and installed to parapet 10. In an example embodiment contemplated as within scope of this disclosure, fencing, divider, or privacy screen 64 may be deployable from stake member 60 or supported upon stake member 60 or installed between stake members 60 upon parapet 10. Various embodiments are contemplated as within scope of this disclosure or varying structural capacities to screen, shade, insulate, wall, or otherwise divide one side of barrier or parapet from the other.
[0062] FIG. 17 illustrates an example embodiment of barrier 10 having a generally triangularcross-section which, by virtue of its sloped surfaces, directs and redirects collisions by vehicles in a direction parallel with the roadway. Velocity is corrected when the car is lifted by the front wheel riding up the sloped surface.
[0063] In the example embodiment shown in FIG. 18, drainage is shown under section of parapet 10 through transverse channel 32. In this example embodiment, each section 12, 14 includes transverse channel 32 and longitudinal channels 30 (see, e.g., FIGS. 12B and 15). Transverse channel 32 allows drainage under section 12 to prevent fluid containment by parapet 10. Longitudinal channels 30 enable fluid flow under footings 24 of sections 12, 14 in a longitudinal direction relative to barrier, whereby flow from transverse channel 32 may flow through longitudinal channels 30 into adjacent transverse channels 32, where the lay of the land directs run off in such a manner, such that water is not impeded by the barrier. Additional and other means of permeation and throughflow of runoff are contemplated as within scope of this disclosure.
Claims
CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:
1. An articulated barrier comprising complementary connectors configured to interconnect sections of the barrier together, said complementary connectors comprising:at least a male connector comprising:a tubular section;a flange member disposed upon at least a portion of a surface of the tubular section along a height of the tubular section, said flange member having a width;at least a female connector comprising:a pair of plate members settable spaced apart and generally in parallel to define an intermediary space, each of said pair of plate members having:a parallelepiped section having a width; and a deflected portion distally deflected towards the other of the pair of plate members when the pair of plate members are set spaced apart and generally in parallel;wherein the intermediary space is narrowed by each said deflected portion to define a gap;wherein the pair of plate members is settable spaced apart in one end of a section of the barrier to accommodate the tubular section of the male connector set in the end of another section of the barrier within the intermediary space; wherein adjacent sections of the barrier are connectable together by vertically slotting the tubular section of one section of the barrier between the pair of plate members on another section of the barrier, such that the deflected portions prevent translational separation of the sections of the barrier by impeding passage of the tubular section through the gap while accommodating translational separation along the width of the flange member and some rotational play between the male and female connectors relative to each other along the width of the flange member and between the width of each of the pair of plate members within the intermediary space;whereby the sections of the barrier may move apart linearly and angularly while maintaining connection of the male and female connectors to absorb the force of impact with the barrier.
2. The articulated barrier of claim 1 wherein each deflected portion is disposed at approximately 45° relative to each plate member.
3. The articulated barrier of claim 2 wherein adjacent sections of the barrier are separable between a closed position and an open position;wherein the tubular section of the male connector is disposed within the intermediary space farthest from the gap when the barrier is disposed in the open position; andwherein the tubular section of the male connector is disposed within the intermediary space closest to the gap when the barrier is in the closed position.
4. The articulated barrier of claim 3 wherein the articulated barrier separates along a linear longitudinal axis up to the width of the flange member.
5. The articulated barrier of claim 4 wherein separation of the articulated barrier accommodates deflection of adjacent sections within a transverse plane, rotating the tubular section relative to the barrier up to an angle of approximately 6 to 6.7°.
6. The articulated barrier of claim 4 wherein separation of the articulated barrier accommodates deflection of adjacent sections within a sagittal plane, rotating the tubular section relative to the barrier up to an angle of approximately 6 to 6.7°.
7. The articulated barrier of claim 5 wherein the tubular section of the male connector further comprises an open channel disposed therethrough.
8. The articulated barrier of claim 6 wherein the tubular section of the male connector further comprises an open channel disposed therethrough.
7. An articulated barrier comprising complementary connectors configured to interconnect sections of the barrier together, said complementary connectors comprising:at least a male connector disposed at one end of each section of the barrier, said male connector comprising:a tubular section having an open channel disposed therethrough; a flange member disposed upon at least a section of a surface of the tubular section along a height of the tubular section, said flange member having a width;at least a female connector disposed at the other end of each section, said female connector comprising:a pair of plate members disposed generally in parallel to define an intermediary space, each of said pair of plate members having:a parallelepiped section having a width; and a deflected portion distally deflected at approximately 45° towards the other of the pair of plate members;wherein the intermediary space is narrowed by each said deflected portion to define a gap, said gap narrower than the intermediary space;wherein adjacent sections of the barrier are connectable together by vertically slotting the tubular section of one section of the barrier between the pair of plate members on another section of the barrier, such that the deflected portions prevent translational separation of the sections of the barrier by impeding passage of the tubular section through the gap while accommodating translational separation along the width of the flange member and some rotational play between the male and female connectors relative to each other along the width of the flange member and between the width of each of the pair of plate members;whereby the sections of the barrier may move apart linearly and angularly while maintaining connection of the male and female connectors to absorb the force of an impact with the barrier.
8. The articulated barrier of claim 7 wherein each of the pair of plate members of the female connector include apertures for threadable interconnection with a cross-strut member disposed therethrough.
9. The articulated barrier of 7 wherein the male and female connectors interconnect with reinforcing rebar disposed upon, around, within, or interior to each section of the said barrier.
10. The articulated barrier of claim 7 wherein the open channel accommodates a stake member insertable therethrough to interconnect with the ground, a caisson, or an underlying structural element.
11. The articulated barrier of claim 7 wherein separation of the articulated barrier accommodates deflection of adjacent sections within a transverse plane, rotating the tubular section relative to the barrier up to an angle of approximately 6 to 6.7°.
12. The articulated barrier of claim 7 wherein separation of the articulated barrier accommodates deflection of adjacent sections within a sagittal plane, rotating the tubular section relative to the barrier up to an angle of approximately 6 to 6.7°.
13. The articulated barrier of claim 8 wherein the male and female connectors interconnect with reinforcing rebar disposed interior each section of the said barrier.
14. The articulated barrier of 9 wherein the male and female connectors interconnect with reinforcing rebar disposed interior each section of the said barrier.
15. An articulated barrier comprising complementary connectors configured to interconnect sections of the barrier together to define a boundary of linear extent, said complementary connectors comprising:at least a male connector disposed at one end of each section of the barrier, said male connector comprising:a tubular section having an open channel disposed therethrough; a flange member disposed upon at least a section of a surface of the tubular section along a height of the tubular section, said flange member having a width;at least one aperture disposed through the flange member for interconnection with a cross strut inserted therethrough whereby interconnection or reinforcing elements upon, around, within, or interior to the barrier with the cross strut translates force applied to the male connector through the barrier as a whole;at least a female connector disposed at the other end of each section of the barrier, said female connector comprising:a pair of plate members disposed generally in parallel to define an intermediary space, each of said pair of plate members having:a parallelepiped section having a width; anda deflected portion distally deflected at approximately 45° towards the other of the pair of plate members;wherein the intermediary space is narrowed by each said deflected portion to define a gap, said gap narrower than the intermediary space;at least one aperture disposed through each plate member for interconnection with a cross strut inserted therethrough whereby interconnection or reinforcing elements upon, around, within, or interior to the barrier with the cross strut translates force applied to the male connector through the barrier as a whole;wherein adjacent sections of the barrier are connectable together by vertically slotting the tubular section of one section of the said barrier between the pair of plate members on another section of the said barrier, such that the deflected portions prevent translational separation of adjacent sections of the barrier by impeding passage of the tubular section through the gap while accommodating translational separation along the width of the flange member and some rotational play between the male and female connectors relative to each other along the width of the flange member and between the width of each of the pair of plate members and through an angle of approximately 5° within atransverse plane relative thereto and an angle of approximately 6.7° within a sagittal plane relative thereto;whereby the sections of the barrier may move apart linearly and angularly while maintaining connection of the male and female connectors to absorb the force of an impact with the barrier while maintaining integrity of the barrier as a whole.