U.S. patent application number 10/154874 was filed with the patent office on 2003-11-27 for barrier system.
Invention is credited to Avdek, Joseph Russel, Becklin, Douglas, Bodimer, Gilbert Daniel, Boulais, Keith E., Cicha, Jeffrey Allen, Harrold, Brent Thomas, Jacobs, Richard Herman, Mechache, Susan Renae.
Application Number | 20030219308 10/154874 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 29548968 |
Filed Date | 2003-11-27 |
United States Patent
Application |
20030219308 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Boulais, Keith E. ; et
al. |
November 27, 2003 |
Barrier system
Abstract
A barrier system is provided for absorbing the forces generated
during collisions with vehicles. The system includes a plurality of
interconnectable modular blocks that have a controlled rate of
compression. The blocks connect with one another while allowing
pivotable movement. In addition, an anchor system is provided that
allows one or more blocks to be secured to the ground or to the
floor, while still allowing the secured blocks some degree of
pivotable movement.
Inventors: |
Boulais, Keith E.; (Mounds
View, MN) ; Becklin, Douglas; (Fridley, MN) ;
Bodimer, Gilbert Daniel; (Burnsville, MN) ; Avdek,
Joseph Russel; (Eden Prairie, MN) ; Cicha, Jeffrey
Allen; (Hudson, WI) ; Jacobs, Richard Herman;
(Minneapolis, MN) ; Harrold, Brent Thomas;
(Burnsville, MN) ; Mechache, Susan Renae; (St.
Louis Park, MN) |
Correspondence
Address: |
DORSEY & WHITNEY LLP
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY DEPARTMENT
50 SOUTH SIXTH STREET
MINNEAPOLIS
MN
55402-1498
US
|
Family ID: |
29548968 |
Appl. No.: |
10/154874 |
Filed: |
May 24, 2002 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
404/6 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E01F 15/145 20130101;
E01F 13/024 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
404/6 |
International
Class: |
E01F 013/00 |
Claims
I claim:
1. A barrier comprising: a plurality of pivotably coupled modular
blocks, each having a compressible hollow interior and a vent.
2. The barrier of claim 1, further comprising: an anchor having a
base fixed into a position and an anchor pin rotatably coupled with
one of the modular blocks and pivotably coupled to the base.
3. The barrier of claim 2, wherein the anchor further comprises a
spring coupled between the base and anchor pin, wherein the spring
is biased to resist pivotable movement between the anchor pin and
the base.
4. The barrier of claim 3, wherein the anchor further comprises: a
base shaft extending from the base in a direction parallel to the
anchor pin; and a plate coupling the anchor pin to the spring so
that the anchor pin is offset from the base shaft.
5. The barrier of claim 1, wherein each modular block further
comprises: a proximal end having a proximal tab depending
therefrom; and a distal end having a gap configured to receive a
proximal tab from an adjoining modular block.
6. The barrier of claim 5 wherein the proximal tab is arcuate and
the gap is arcuate so that pivotable movement between two adjoining
modular blocks is permitted.
7. The barrier of claim 5, wherein the gap is defined by an upper
distal tab having a first channel and a lower distal tab having a
second channel and the proximal tab includes a third channel
configured to align with both a first channel and a second channel
of an adjacent modular block to receive a pin.
8. The barrier of claim 1, wherein each of the modular blocks
includes a side panel having a rib.
9. A barrier comprising: means for absorbing an impact; and means
for coupling the means for absorbing impact.
10. The barrier of claim 9, further comprising means for anchoring
the means for absorbing an impact.
11. The barrier of claim 9, further comprising means for
controlling the compression of the means for absorbing an
impact.
12. A modular block for use in a barrier system, comprising: an
upper surface, a lower surface, a first side panel, a second side
panel, a proximal end and a distal end that define a hollow
interior cavity; an arcuate proximal tab depending from the
proximal end and having a channel therethrough; an upper distal tab
depending from the distal end and having a channel therethrough; a
lower distal tab depending from the distal end and having a channel
therethrough; a distal gap formed between the upper distal tab and
the lower distal tab, the distal gap being similar to the proximal
tab; and a vent allowing venting of the hollow interior cavity upon
compression of the modular block.
13. The modular block of claim 12, further comprising a plurality
of ribs disposed on the first side panel.
14. The modular block of claim 13, further comprising a flat panel
for receiving printed matter disposed between two of the plurality
of ribs.
15. The modular block of claim 12, further comprising a cylindrical
spacer having a channel therethrough and shaped so that the
cylindrical spacer can be selectively received within the distal
gap.
16. A go-kart track barrier system comprising: a plurality of
pivotably interconnectable compressible modular blocks, each having
a vent to control a rate of compression of the modular blocks,
wherein a course of the modular blocks define at a least a portion
of the go-kart track; and an anchor having a first end that is
fixed into position and second end pivotably coupled with the first
end and rotatably coupled with a modular block.
17. The barrier system of claim 16 wherein each block includes a
plurality of ribs.
18. The barrier system of claim 17, wherein the ribs are positioned
to correspond with an abutting surface of a go-kart.
19. The barrier system of claim 18, wherein the abutting surface is
a bumper.
20. The barrier system of claim 16, wherein a first course of
modular blocks defines an interior boundary of the go-kart track
and a second course of modular block defines an exterior
boundary.
21. The barrier system of claim 16, wherein a first course of
modular blocks is coupled with a second course of modular blocks
with a tee connector.
22. A barrier system comprising: a plurality of compressible
modular blocks, wherein each block includes; a proximal tab having
a channel therethrough and an arcuate abutting surface; and an
upper and lower distal tab that define a distal gap wherein the
distal gap includes an arcuate receiving surface and the distal gap
is shaped to receive a proximal tab from an adjoining modular
block, the upper and lower distal tabs each having a channel
therethrough so that a connecting pin passing through the channel
of the upper and lower distal tabs of a first block and through the
channel of the proximal tab of a second block pivotably couple the
first block and the second block.
23. The barrier system of claim 22, wherein each block further
includes a vent to control a rate of compression.
24. The barrier of claim 22, further comprising: an anchor having a
base fixed into a position and an anchor pin rotatably coupled with
the first block and pivotably coupled to the base.
25. The barrier of claim 24, wherein the anchor pin is coupled with
the one of the modular blocks by passing through the channel of the
upper distal tab and through the channel of the lower distal tab of
the first block.
26. The barrier of claim 25, wherein the anchor pin also passes
through the channel of the proximal tab of the second block.
27. The barrier of claim 25, wherein the anchor further comprises a
spring coupled between the base and anchor pin, wherein the spring
is biased to resist pivotable movement between the anchor pin and
the base.
28. The barrier of claim 27, wherein the anchor further comprises:
a base shaft extending from the base in a direction parallel to the
anchor pin; and a plate coupling the anchor pin to the spring so
that the anchor pin is offset from the base shaft.
29. The barrier of claim 22 further comprising tee connector to
interconnect a first course of modular blocks to a second course of
modular blocks.
30. The barrier of claim 22 wherein each modular block includes a
plurality of ribs.
31. The barrier of claim 22, wherein the modular block define a
go-kart track.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to barriers. More
specifically, the present invention relates to modular vehicle
barrier systems.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] In almost any context where a person uses a vehicle, there
are a number of potential risks to the safety of that person. One
risk is that the vehicle will collide with an object causing injury
to the person and/or damage to the vehicle. Often times, such
collisions occur with objects that are deliberately placed in
specific locations to serve a variety of purposes. For example, a
driver will encounter any number of objects along a highway such as
telephone or utility poles, highway dividers, or bridge supports to
name a few.
[0003] In some contexts, repetitive and frequent collisions are
expected. For example, go-kart racing has become particularly
popular. In go-karting, the vehicles are relatively small and
light; however, the driver is completely exposed and the speeds
achieved can be very high. For example, with concession go-karts,
speeds of about 40 MPH are common. Concession go-karting generally
means that for a fee, a person is allowed to ride a go-kart around
a track and is generally available to the public. In go-kart
racing, go-karts are currently achieving speeds in excess of 80
MPH, further increasing the risk.
[0004] To define a go-kart course, a rigid structure (e.g., a wall)
can be provided to define the course and that structure could then
be protected. More commonly, some type of safety barrier is
actually utilized to define the course. For example, stacked rubber
tires can be bolted or otherwise connected together to define a
course having any desired shape. If a go-kart crashes into the
barrier, the resiliency of the rubber along with the shape of the
tires provide somewhat of a cushioning effect. It had been found
that when tires are bolted or otherwise connected together, the
structure is surprisingly rigid and is not ideally suited as a
track barrier.
[0005] Another type of go-kart track barrier includes a plurality
of blocks that are aligned to define the track. A number of these
blocks are secured together with a cable that wraps around them,
again making the barrier more rigid. This is necessary to prevent
the go-kart from simply going through the barrier and striking an
object or a person behind the barrier.
[0006] Thus, while barriers are available to provide some degree of
safety in different contexts, there exists a need for an improved
vehicle safety barrier.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] The present invention, in one embodiment, includes modular
block that is pivotably interconnected with one or more other
blocks to define a barrier system. The barrier system is extendable
to any length and can be used to protect an object or to define a
course of any shape, such as a go-kart track. Each modular block is
hollow and is provided with an exposed vent. Upon impact, the block
collapses to a certain extent. The vent controls the rate at which
the contents of the block are expelled under a given force, thus
controlling the compression rate of the block. In addition, the
contents of the block affect the rate of compression. For example,
a block filled with air will compress more rapidly and with greater
ease that a block filled with water or sand. A fixed anchor system
is provided to secure the end blocks to the ground. The anchor
system is fixed to the ground at one end and is coupled to the
block at the other end. The anchor system allows for pivotal
movement so that the block has some freedom of movement. Anchors
can also be used at intermediate points along the barrier to define
the contour of the barrier system. The modular blocks are
interconnectable through a tab and slot configuration and each
modular block can be pivoted with respect to an adjoining
block.
[0008] In one embodiment, the present invention is a barrier
comprising a plurality of pivotably coupled modular blocks, each
having a compressible hollow interior and a vent.
[0009] In another embodiment, the barrier further includes an
anchor having a base fixed into a position and an anchor pin
rotatably coupled with one of the modular blocks and pivotably
coupled to the base.
[0010] In another embodiment, the anchor further comprises a spring
coupled between the base and anchor pin, wherein the spring is
biased to resist pivotable movement between the anchor pin and the
base.
[0011] In another embodiment, the anchor further comprises a base
shaft extending from the base in a direction parallel to the anchor
pin. The anchor also includes a plate coupling the anchor pin to
the spring so that the anchor pin is offset from the base
shaft.
[0012] In another embodiment, the present invention includes a
plurality of means for absorbing an impact and means for coupling
the means for absorbing impact.
[0013] In another embodiment, the present invention is a modular
block for use in a barrier system that comprises an upper surface,
a lower surface, a first side panel, a second side panel, a
proximal end and a distal end that define a hollow interior cavity.
The modular block also includes an arcuate proximal tab depending
from the proximal end and having a channel therethrough, an upper
distal tab depending from the distal end and having a channel
therethrough, a lower distal tab depending from the distal end and
having a channel therethrough and a distal gap formed between the
upper distal tab and the lower distal tab. The distal gap is
similar to the proximal tab. The modular block also includes a vent
allowing venting of the hollow interior cavity upon compression of
the modular block.
[0014] In another embodiment, the present invention is a go-kart
track barrier system comprising a plurality of pivotably
interconnectable compressible modular blocks, each having a vent to
control a rate of compression of the modular blocks, wherein a
course of the modular blocks define at a least a portion of the
go-kart track. The system also includes an anchor having a first
end that is fixed into position and second end pivotably coupled
with the first end and rotatably coupled with a modular block.
[0015] In another embodiment, the present invention is a barrier
system comprising a plurality of compressible modular blocks,
wherein each block includes a proximal tab having a channel
therethrough and an arcuate abutting surface. Each block also
includes an upper and lower distal tab that define a distal gap
wherein the distal gap includes an arcuate receiving surface and
the distal gap is shaped to receive a proximal tab from an
adjoining modular block, the upper and lower distal tabs each
having a channel therethrough so that a connecting pin passing
through the channel of the upper and lower distal tabs of a first
block and through the channel of the proximal tab of a second block
pivotably couple the first block and the second block.
[0016] While multiple embodiments are disclosed, still other
embodiments of the present invention will become apparent to those
skilled in the art from the following detailed description. As will
be apparent, the invention is capable of modifications in various
obvious aspects, all without departing from the spirit and scope of
the present invention. Accordingly, the drawings and detailed
description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not
restrictive.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] FIG. 1 is perspective view of a modular block of a barrier
system consistent with the principals of the present invention.
[0018] FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a plurality of
modular blocks.
[0019] FIG. 3 is partially sectional, perspective view of an anchor
system.
[0020] FIG. 4 is top, planar view illustrating the barrier system
wrapped around an object.
[0021] FIG. 5 is a top planar, partially sectional view
illustrating a first course of modular blocks interconnected with a
second course of modular blocks.
[0022] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a barrier system defining a
go-kart racing track.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0023] In general, the present invention provides a barrier system
suitable to absorb and manage the impact of vehicle collisions,
while protecting one or more objects and/or defining a course of
travel for the vehicle. FIG. 1 illustrates a modular block 10 that
is useful in forming such a barrier system. Generally, a plurality
of the modular blocks 10 will be interconnected to form the barrier
system.
[0024] The modular block 10 is a hollow structure having a proximal
end 12 and a distal end 14. Disposed therebetween are a pair of
side panels 18 (only one is visible in FIG. 1), an upper surface
20, and a bottom surface 22. The modular block 10 can be
constructed from any suitable material that provides sufficient
strength to resist the expected collisions while still providing an
appropriate degree of flexibility. Plastic, such as low to medium
density polyethylene, is one suitable choice in the go-kart
context. For larger vehicles traveling at high speeds, such as in
NASCAR racing, a stronger material such as polyurethane may be
utilized.
[0025] The size of the modular block 10 as well as the thickness of
the material will vary depending upon the expected use of the
barrier system. For example, for concession go-karts, an exemplary
modular block 10 may be about 52 inches in overall length, may have
a height of about 20 inches and width of about 16 inches. The wall
thickness may be about {fraction (3/16)} of an inch. With these
dimensions and thickness, about 50% of the strength of an air
filled modular block 10 is utilized when a 450 pound go-kart
(weight of go-kart and driver) strikes the block 10 at a speed of
40 MPH. For the higher speed go-kart racing, the wall thickness can
be increased and/or a material can be used to fill in the block 10,
as explained in greater detail below.
[0026] A vent 24 is provided on a raised portion 25 of the upper
surface 20 of the modular block 10. The vent 24 is an orifice into
the hollow interior cavity of the modular block 10. When the
modular block 10 is struck by a vehicle or any moving object having
sufficient force, the side panel 18 will be deflected inward to
some degree. In order for this to occur, the contents within the
hollow cavity are at least partially expelled through the vent 24.
By properly selecting the size of the vent 24, the rate of
compression under a given force can be chosen.
[0027] After a collision having a certain force of impact, the
modular block 10 may be deformed. That is, the resiliency of the
modular block 10 will normally cause it to re-expand into the shape
illustrated after certain collisions. This re-expansion will
generate a vacuum which draws air into the hollow interior through
vent 24. However, some impacts may deform the modular block 10
beyond the point where its resiliency can cause it to re-expand. In
such a case, pressurized air (or another medium) can be introduced
through the vent 24 to re-expand the modular block 10.
[0028] Various materials can be contained within the hollow
interior. For example, air, water, other liquids, sand, foam, or
saw dust are just some of the possibilities. The particular
material chosen will modify the overall mass, resiliency, and
resistance of a given modular block 10. In addition, the various
materials will affect the compression rate of the modular block 10
for a given vent 24 size. Of course, a given material could be
added to partially fill the hollow cavity, allowing air to remain
in the unfilled portion of the cavity. In such a case, it may often
only be air that is expelled from the vent 24 during minor
collisions.
[0029] Side panel 18 may include a plurality of ribs 26 disposed
below (as illustrated) a flat face 28. The flat face 28 can serve
as an area to place various kinds of advertising, warnings,
instructions, directions, or other printed matter. The printed
matter could be added to another material such as paper, cardboard
or any other suitable material which is then temporarily or
permanently affixed to the flat face 28. Alternatively, the printed
matter could be applied directly to the flat face 28 through
various printing, painting, or any other marking techniques. The
opposite side (not illustrated) can also include ribs and/or a flat
panel or it could have a different configuration altogether.
[0030] The ribs 26 and a rib 30 disposed above (as illustrated) the
flat face 28 serve a variety of purposes. The ribs 26, 30 are
raised from the side panel 18 and can be constructed in a variety
of ways. For example, in one embodiment modular block 10 is
constructed from plastic and the ribs 26, 30 are simply molded
portions of the structure. Alternatively, the ribs 26, 30 could be
separate structural elements that are added to the side panel
18.
[0031] The ribs 26, 30 serve to provide additional strength to the
modular block 10. In addition, at least ribs 26 are positioned to
be the likely point of impact for a given collision. For example,
in one context the modular blocks 10 will be used as a vehicle
barrier to define a go-kart track, as will be described in greater
detail below. Some go-karts are provided with a bumper that defines
the outer perimeter of the go-kart. For such a case, the position
of the ribs 26 and the overall size of the modular block 10 could
be chosen so that position of the ribs 26 coincides with the size
and location of the bumpers. This allows the most likely point of
impact to occur at a strengthened location. In addition, in a
context such as go-karting, collisions are to be expected
frequently. Thus, the ribs 26, 30 can be made or painted to have a
color that matches that of the bumpers so that normal wear and tear
is less visible. Alternatively, the ribs 26, 30 could be colored as
a warning indicator.
[0032] The number, location, and configuration of the ribs 26, 30
can be modified. For example, the ribs 26, 30 could be made to have
an enlarged, flattened contact area to increase the amount of area
that is in contact with the colliding vehicle. Likewise, the number
of ribs can be increased to achieve a similar result. If desired,
the thickness of the side wall can just be increased and no ribs
may be provided.
[0033] To form the modular block 10, various known molding
techniques could be utilized. Rotational molding can be used
wherein a powder resin is placed inside a mold. The mold is rotated
about three axes while simultaneously being heated. The powder
melts, conforms to the shape of the mold and is then allowed to
cool. Blow molding could also be utilized to form the modular block
10.
[0034] The modular block 10 has a shape that allows a plurality of
blocks to be securely and pivotably coupled together. More
specifically, an arcuate proximal tab 32 depends from the proximal
end 12. Depending from the distal end 14 are an arcuate upper
distal tab 34 and an arcuate lower distal tab 36, which together
define a distal gap 38 therebetween. Each of the tabs 32, 34, 36
may be hollow and coupled with the hollow interior, or may be solid
members. The distal gap 38 has an arcuate receiving surface 42 for
receiving a similarly arcuate abutting surface 40 of the proximal
tab 32. That is, the proximal tab 32 of one modular block 10 is
inserted into the distal gap 38 of an adjacent modular block 10.
The shape of the arcuate abutting surface 40 and the receiving
surface 42 facilitate rotational movement between the adjacent
modular blocks 10.
[0035] The adjacent modular blocks 10 need to secured together once
the proximal tab 32 has been inserted into the distal gap 38. A
connecting pin 50 is inserted through a upper distal pin channel
46, a proximal pin channel 44 of the adjacent modular block 10, and
the lower distal pin channel 48. A pin cap 42 prevents the
connecting pin 50 from passing all of the way through. Once so
assembled, connected modular blocks 10 are linked together;
however, they can rotate or pivot with respect to one another.
[0036] A doughnut shaped cylindrical spacer 56 can be provided to
fill in a distal gap 38 that will not be receiving a proximal tab
32 from another modular block 10. Generally, when this occurs an
anchor system (as described in more detail below) will be provided
instead of the connecting pin 50; however, the concept is the same.
Furthermore, there may be some occasions where it is appropriate to
secure the cylindrical spacer 56 with the connecting pin 50.
Whether an anchor or the connecting pin 50 is utilized, it passes
through spacer channel 58 to secure the cylindrical spacer 56
within the distal gap 38.
[0037] FIG. 2 illustrates a barrier system 70 including three
modular blocks 10, 60 and 64. The blocks 60 and 64 are coupled
together, the block 10 is positioned to be received by the block
60, and cylindrical spacer 58 is positioned to be received by
distal gap 38. As is apparent, any number of modular blocks 10 can
be coupled together to form a barrier system 70 of any length. In
addition, because each modular block 10 is pivotably coupled to the
adjacent block, virtually any shape or pattern can be defined by
the barrier system 70.
[0038] For barrier systems 70 designed to protect larger and/or
faster moving vehicles, various modifications can be made. For
example, the overall dimensions can be increased. For full size
automobiles (especially in a racing context), the modular blocks 10
may be five or six feet tall. The wall thickness can also increase.
In addition, the interlinking of one modular block 10 to another
can be modified. That is, as illustrated each block has one
proximal tab 32 and one distal gap 38. This could be increased so
that any number of proximal tabs and a corresponding number of
distal gaps are produced in a dove-tail type relationship.
[0039] A barrier system 70 as described thus far would be useful in
providing a barrier along an existing structural object, such as a
wall. That is, the barrier system could simply be placed in the
proper position and it would provided some degree of protection
during collisions.
[0040] The barrier system 70 becomes even more useful when used
with the anchor system 80 illustrated in FIG. 3. In summary, the
anchor system 80 can be used to secure the endpoint(s) of the
barrier system to the ground or a floor. In addition, the anchor
system 80 can be used to secure any number of intermediate points
along the barrier system 70.
[0041] The ground 85 (or a floor or other supporting platform) is
prepared by creating a hole 87 sufficiently deep and having a
sufficient diameter to receive an anchor base 82 and an anchor
sleeve 84. The anchor base 82 is preferably permanently secured to
the bottom of the hole 87. This can be accomplished by using
cement, epoxy or another appropriate bonding material.
Alternatively, the base 82 could have expandable "fingers" that can
be driven outward (into the ground 85) after the base 82 is
positioned as illustrated. A base shaft 86 is coupled with the
anchor base 82 and extends to the top of the hole 87. An anchor
plate 90 is positioned perpendicularly to and rotatably coupled
with the base shaft 86. A spring 88 interconnects the anchor plate
90 with the anchor base 82. Thus, anchor plate 90 is able to rotate
in the direction indicated by Arrow A by overcoming the spring
force of spring 88. Once so rotated, the spring force will return
the anchor plate 90 to its rest position when the opposing force,
i.e., a collision, is removed.
[0042] An anchor pin 92 is securely attached to the anchor plate 90
and may include a removable anchor pin cap 94. Anchor pin 92 can be
used instead of any given connecting pin 50 to interconnect any two
modular blocks 10 or to become the terminus of a barrier system 70
by simply securing the unattached end of one modular block 10. In
the latter case, cylindrical spacer 56 can be used to obscure the
distal gap 38. Thus, anchor system 80 serves to couple one or more
modular blocks 10 to a fixed location in the ground 85. Because of
the ability of the anchor system 80 to allow some degree of
rotational movement, the modular block(s) 10 also are able to move
somewhat during a collision. Were this not the case, the anchor
points of the barrier system 70 would basically be rigid and
potentially hazardous.
[0043] In one embodiment, spring 88 is dampened so that after a
collision the anchor plate 90 and thus the anchor pin 92 and any
modular block(s) 10 attached thereto slowly return to their rest
position. Without this dampening effect and if the spring tension
is high, a collision may occur that causes anchor pin 92 to
deflect. As it returns to its rest position, it may again collide
with the vehicle with force. A dampening of the spring 88 can
prevent this as can properly setting the spring tension of spring
88 based on the expected force of the collisions. The spring 88
also serves to absorb the force generated during the impact and
further enhance the performance of the safety barrier 70
[0044] As indicated above, the anchor system 80 can be utilized at
the starting or ending points of any barrier system 70. For
circular or closed loop courses, this would be the same point. In
addition, multiple anchors 80 can be positioned at any interval
desired to prevent the barrier system 70 from being moved out of
its predetermined shape or away from the object it is used to
secure. For example, an anchor 70 could be placed at every fifth or
sixth modular block 10 by using an anchor instead of the connecting
pin 50 to join two modular blocks 10.
[0045] The anchor system 80 can be constructed from steel or any
other suitable material. The pivoting action of the anchor 80,
along with the protective benefits of the attached modular block(s)
10 prevent injury and damage even when a collision occurs directly
at an anchor point.
[0046] FIG. 4 shows a barrier system 70 wrapping around an object
96 and simply illustrates the ability of the barrier system 70 to
assume any give shape.
[0047] FIG. 5 illustrate how two separate courses of the barrier
system 70 can be interconnected and also illustrates (in phantom)
the anchor system 80. As illustrated a first course 100 is
interconnected with a second course 102 by a tee connector 104. Tee
connector 104 is a flat plate having two holes therethrough. The
connecting pins 50 of the adjacent modular blocks 110, 112 are
passed through holes in tee connector 104. Tee connector 104 is
thin enough to be located in a space between proximal tab 32 and
distal gap 38. Any number of courses could be connected to form any
pattern or configuration. Two tee connectors 104 can be utilized
for each connection point. That is, one is above the proximal tab
32 and one is below the proximal tab 32.
[0048] Thus, a modular barrier system 70 has been provided that
absorbs the force and impact of collisions. This occurs because of
the structure of each individual modular block 10, which allows it
to compress in a controlled manner. In addition, each modular block
10 is pivotably coupled to either an adjacent modular block 10 or a
pivotable anchor 80. Thus, the barrier system 70 as a whole absorbs
collision impact by allowing the relevant modular blocks 10 to move
(to some degree) as a whole. That is, the barrier system 70 itself
can deform in a somewhat spring-like fashion.
[0049] Such a barrier system 70 can be used in a wide variety of
situations. By way of example and not meant to be limiting, the
barrier system 70 can be used as a safety barrier for automobiles
and motorcycles on roads and highways. Because of the easily
adjustable nature of the system, the barrier 70 can be used in
temporary situations such as road construction or in permanent
locations such as to surround a bridge support, as a guard rail,
for traffic diversion and control, in parking ramps/lots, or as a
highway divider. Barrier system 70 can be used anywhere collision
protection or vehicle diversion is necessary or desirable. The
barrier system 70 can also be used in warehouses, loading docks and
other industrial settings for forklifts and other industrial
equipment both to protect that equipment and to protect the
surroundings from that equipment. The system 70 can be used in
marine applications such as on piers, docks, or wharves. The system
70 can be used in all kinds of sporting an racing events such as
auto racing, snowmobile racing, motocross or for go-karts.
[0050] For use as a barrier on roads and highways, the barrier
system 70 should be sufficiently strong to not only protect the
vehicle occupants and the vehicles, but should also be able to be
subjected to significant impacts while remaining intact. That is,
it would be undesirable to have to replace various modular blocks
10 each time a collision occurs. Obvious, extremely serious
collisions would not be the norm, and when such extreme collisions
occur damage to the modular blocks 10 may be expected. Conversely,
in the go-kart context the force of the collisions there would be
unlikely to seriously damage the components of the barrier system
70. In the context of racing cars, such as in NASCAR, the large
size of the vehicle (e.g., 2000 pounds) coupled with speeds in
excess of 200 MPH can result in very violent collisions. The
contacted portion of the barrier system 70 would be expected to
provide the appropriate degree of protection; however, in this
context damaging or destroying one or more modular blocks 10 would
be acceptable. The barrier system 70 facilitates easy modification
and replacement allowing any damage components to be easily
replaced.
[0051] FIG. 6 illustrates a portion of a go-kart track 120 defined
by vehicle barrier system 70. Two courses of modular blocks 10 are
used. The first is the interior boundary 140 and the second is the
exterior boundary 150. The track 120 is defined by the area between
the interior boundary 140 and the exterior boundary 150. As
illustrated, under virtually any collision scenario go-kart 122
will collide with one or more modular blocks 10.
[0052] Support poles 126 represent any solid object that may be
adjacent the track 120 and might otherwise pose a collision hazard
to the go-kart 122. Support poles 126 may include some amount of
padding 128, however a direct collision at speed would still be
dangerous. With barrier 70, one or more modular blocks 10 will
absorb the impact and reduce the risk of injury even if a collision
were to occur near support pole 126.
[0053] Alternatively, the go-kart 122 could collide with the
barrier 70 at some point removed from the support pole 126. In such
a case, a number of things will occur. First, in light collisions
the resiliency of the barrier 70 as a whole may deflect the go-kart
122 back into the track, serving the function of maximizing the
on-track time of each go-kart 122 especially in concession
go-karting where speeds are comparatively reduced, but driver skill
and experience is often absent. In harder collisions, one or more
modular blocks 10 may be caused to pivot and this action may be
enough to absorb the impact and either stopping the go-kart 122,
deflecting it back into the track, or allowing the driver to regain
control without injury or damage. In even harder collisions, one or
more modular blocks 10 may also compress with the compression
resistance being determined by the material forming the modular
block 10, the material contained within the hollow interior, and
the escape rate as defined by the vent 24. After such a collision,
the compressed modular block 10 may have sufficient resiliency to
re-expand on its own or pressurized air may be blown into the
hollow interior through the vent 24.
[0054] No end points are illustrated in FIG. 6. If any exist, an
anchor 80 would be used to secure that end point. Alternatively,
both the interior boundary 140 and the exterior boundary 150 could
form complete loops. In either case, anchors 80 will be positioned
at various points to control the shape of the course. By way of
example, anchor locations 130 and 132 are illustrated. Even if an
anchor point is where a collision occurs, the pivoting action
allowed by the anchor 80 in combination with the modular blocks 10
safely absorbs the force of impact.
[0055] As illustrated, the height of a bumper 124 of go-kart 122
generally corresponds with the positioning of the ribs 26. Thus,
the ribs 26 will be the location of any localized abrasions or
scuffing that occurs from repeated collisions. To diminish the
appearance of these abrasions or scuffing, ribs 26 can be dyed,
formed, or painted to have the same color as the bumpers 124.
[0056] As it may be desirable to frequently modify the go-kart
course over time, barrier system 70 can be easily moved and
otherwise modified. The connecting pins 50 and anchor pins 92 can
easily be removed from their corresponding modular blocks 10,
allowing for any desired adjustment or modification. There may be
times when anchor locations are no longer being utilized after such
modifications. The anchor system 80 (FIG. 3) can be removed from
the ground 85 with relative ease. Because in some embodiments,
anchor base 82 is permanently fixed in place, that portion alone
will remain in the ground. Appropriate covers can be placed over
the exposed holes 87 when an anchor system 80 is removed.
[0057] During operation of the go-kart track facility, operators of
the facility will have need to access various portions of the
track. Thus, modular blocks 10 are constructed with sufficient
strength and sufficiently planar upper surfaces (and preferably
sufficient width) to allow people to walk across the tops of the
modular blocks 10.
[0058] While the barrier system 70 has been illustrated as defining
a go-kart track, it can also be used for other purposes. For
example, barrier system 70, or some portion thereof, can be used to
define a boundary. The barrier system 70 can also be used with any
bridges on the course to both guide and protect the go-kart.
[0059] Those skilled in the art will further appreciate that the
present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without
departing from the spirit or central attributes thereof. In that
the foregoing description of the present invention discloses only
exemplary embodiments thereof, it is to be understood that other
variations are contemplated as being within the scope of the
present invention. Accordingly, the present invention is not
limited in the particular embodiments which have been described in
detail therein. Rather, reference should be made to the appended
claims as indicative of the scope and content of the present
invention.
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