U.S. patent application number 10/669998 was filed with the patent office on 2004-03-25 for barrier device with external reinforcement structure.
Invention is credited to Yodock, Guy C., Yodock, Leo J. III, Yodock, Leo J. JR..
Application Number | 20040057792 10/669998 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 21873549 |
Filed Date | 2004-03-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040057792 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Yodock, Leo J. III ; et
al. |
March 25, 2004 |
Barrier device with external reinforcement structure
Abstract
A barrier device comprises a top wall, a bottom wall, opposed
end walls and opposed side walls interconnected to form a hollow
interior in which a pair of spaced openings are formed which extend
between the side walls. An external reinforcement structure is
provided to enhance the structural integrity of the barrier device,
including first and second beams each located along one of the side
walls which are connected to one another by a mounting device
extending through the openings in the hollow interior, or,
alternatively, are mounted within a seat formed in each side wall
between the opposed ends of the barrier device. The beams of one
barrier device, in turn, are connected end-to-end with the beams of
adjacent barrier devices to form an essentially continuous wall of
barriers which resist disengagement from one another and exhibit
improved resistance to being broken apart upon impact by a
vehicle.
Inventors: |
Yodock, Leo J. III;
(Hollywood, FL) ; Yodock, Leo J. JR.; (Fort
Lauderdale, FL) ; Yodock, Guy C.; (Fort Lauderdale,
FL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
HOLLAND & KNIGHT, LLP
ONE EAST BROWARD BLVD.
SUITE 1300
FT LAUDERDALE
FL
33301
|
Family ID: |
21873549 |
Appl. No.: |
10/669998 |
Filed: |
September 24, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10669998 |
Sep 24, 2003 |
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10033974 |
Dec 19, 2001 |
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6666616 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
404/6 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E01F 15/088 20130101;
E01F 15/086 20130101; E01F 15/083 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
404/006 |
International
Class: |
E01F 013/00 |
Claims
I claim:
1. A barrier device, comprising: a top wall, a bottom wall, opposed
end walls and opposed side walls interconnected to collectively
form a hollow interior; at least one opening extending through said
hollow interior from one of said side walls to the other of said
side walls; a barrier reinforcement structure including a first
beam extending along one of said side walls, a second beam
extending along said other side wall and a mounting device which
extends through said at least one opening in said hollow interior
and connects to each of said first and second beams.
2. The barrier device of claim 1 in which said at least one opening
comprises a first opening and a second opening spaced from said
first opening, said first and second openings being adapted to
receive the tines of a fork lift.
3. The barrier device of claim 1 in which each of said first and
second beams is a box beam having a generally square cross
section.
4. The barrier device of claim 1 in which said mounting device is a
bracket inserted within said at least one opening, said bracket
having a first end protruding from one side wall and a second end
protruding from the other side wall, said first beam being
connected to said protruding first end of said bracket and said
second beam being connected to said protruding second end of said
bracket.
5. The barrier device of claim 4 in which said at least one opening
forms a channel within said hollow interior, said bracket
comprising a plate having opposed sides and said first and second
ends, and a pair of arms each mounted to one of said sides of said
plate, said arms resting atop a wall formed by said channel in said
hollow interior and providing a space between said plate and said
wall to permit the insertion of the tines of a fork lift while said
bracket remains in place within said channel.
6. The barrier device of claim 1 in which said mounting device
comprises cooperating telescoping members extending from each of
said first and second beams through said at least one opening in
said hollow interior.
7. The barrier device of claim 6 in which a sleeve is connected
generally perpendicularly to said first beam, and an arm is
connected generally perpendicularly to said second beam, said
sleeve and said arm extending into said at least one opening in
said hollow interior with said arm telescoping into said sleeve to
connect said first and second beams together.
8. The barrier device of claim 1 in which each of said top wall,
bottom wall, opposed side walls and opposed end walls has an inner
surface within said hollow interior, each of said inner surfaces
mounting a layer of foam material.
9. The barrier device of claim 8 in which said layer of foam
material has a thickness in the range of about 0.5 to 6 inches.
10. The barrier device of claim 1 in which said hollow interior is
substantially filled with a foam material.
11. A barrier device, comprising: a top wall, a bottom wall,
opposed end walls and opposed side walls interconnected to
collectively form a hollow interior; a first opening and a spaced,
second opening each extending through said hollow interior from one
of said side walls to the other of said side walls; a first bracket
carried within said first opening and a second bracket carried
within said second opening, each of said first and second brackets
having a first end protruding from one side wall and an opposite,
second end protruding from the other side wall; a first beam
extending along said one side wall and mounted to said protruding
first ends of said first and second brackets, and a second beam
extending along said other side wall and mounted to said protruding
second ends of said first and second brackets.
12. The barrier device of claim 11 in which each of said first and
second beams is a box beam having a generally square cross
section.
13. The barrier device of claim 11 in which said first and second
openings each form a channel within said hollow interior, said
bracket comprising a plate having opposed sides and said first and
second ends, and a pair of arms each mounted to one of said sides
of said plate, said arms resting atop a wall formed by said channel
in said hollow interior and providing a space between said plate
and said wall to permit the insertion of the tines of a fork lift
while said bracket remains in place within said channel.
14. The barrier device of claim 11 in which each of said top wall,
bottom wall, opposed side walls and opposed end walls has an inner
surface within said hollow interior, each of said inner surfaces
mounting a layer of foam material.
15. The barrier device of claim 14 in which said layer of foam
material has a thickness in the range of about 0.5 to 6 inches.
16. The barrier device of claim 11 in which said hollow interior is
substantially filled with a foam material.
17. A barrier device, comprising: a top wall, a bottom wall,
opposed end walls and opposed side walls interconnected to
collectively form a hollow interior; a first opening and a spaced,
second opening each extending through said hollow interior from one
of said side walls to said other side wall; a first beam located
along one of said side walls, a pair of spaced sleeves extending
generally perpendicularly to said first beam, a second beam located
along the other of said side walls, a pair of spaced arms extending
generally perpendicularly to said second beam, said arms being
dimensioned to be inserted within said sleeves; said sleeves of
said first beam each extending through one of said first and second
openings in position to telescopically receive one of said arms of
said second beam so that said first and second beams are connected
together along said opposed side walls.
18. The barrier device of claim 17 in which each of said top wall,
bottom wall, opposed side walls and opposed end walls has an inner
surface within said hollow interior, each of said inner surfaces
mounting a layer of foam material.
19. The barrier device of claim 18 in which said layer of foam
material has a thickness in the range of about 0.5 to 6 inches.
20. The barrier device of claim 17 in which said hollow interior is
substantially filled with a foam material.
21. A barrier wall, comprising: a number of individual barrier
devices connected end-to-end, each of said barrier devices
including: (i) a top wall, a bottom wall, opposed end walls and
opposed side walls interconnected to collectively form a hollow
interior; (ii) at least one opening extending through said hollow
interior from one of said side walls to the other of said side
walls; (iii) a barrier reinforcement structure including a first
beam extending along one of said side walls, a second beam
extending along said other side wall and a mounting device which
extends through said opening in said hollow interior and connects
to each of said first and second beams; connecting structure
located at each end of said first beam and said second beam of each
barrier device, said connecting structure being effective to
connect said first beam of one barrier device to said first beam of
an adjacent barrier device and said second beam of said one barrier
device to said second beam of said adjacent barrier device.
22. The barrier wall of claim 21 in which said mounting devices of
each of said barrier devices is a bracket inserted within said at
least one opening, said bracket having a first end protruding from
one side wall and a second end protruding from the other side wall,
said first beam being connected to said protruding one end of said
bracket and said second beam being connected to said protruding
other end of said bracket.
23. The barrier wall of claim 22 in which said at least one opening
forms a channel within said hollow interior bracket comprising a
plate having opposed sides and said first and second ends, and a
pair of arms each mounted to one of said sides of said plate, said
arms resting atop a wall formed by said channel in said hollow
interior, and providing a space between said plate and said wall to
permit the insertion of the tines of a fork lift while said bracket
remains in place within said channel.
24. The barrier device of claim 21 in which said mounting devices
of each of said barrier devices comprise cooperating telescoping
members extending from each of said first and second beams through
said at least one opening in said hollow interior.
25. The barrier wall of claim 24 in which a sleeve is connected
generally perpendicularly to said first beam, and an arm is
connected generally perpendicularly to said second beam, said
sleeve and said arm extending into said at least one opening in
said hollow interior with said arm telescoping into said sleeve to
connect said first and second beams.
26. The barrier wall of claim 21 in which said connecting structure
comprises a connector bar inserted within and connected to one end
of each of said first and second beams of each barrier device, said
connector bar protruding from said one end of said first and second
beams of one barrier device and being inserted into and mounted
within an end of the first and second beams of an adjacent barrier
device to interconnect said barrier devices.
27. The barrier wall of claim 21 in which said first and second
beams of each of said barrier devices have opposed ends, said
connecting structure including an extension formed at one end of
each of said first and second beams of each barrier device, said
extensions having a smaller cross-sectional area than the other end
of said first and second beams, said extensions of said first and
second beams of one barrier device being inserted within and
connected to said other ends of the first and second beams of an
adjacent barrier device to connect the two barrier devices
together.
28. The barrier wall of claim 21 in which said top wall, bottom
wall, opposed end walls and opposed side walls of each barrier
device has an inner surface within said hollow interior, each of
said inner surfaces mounting a layer of foam material.
29. The barrier wall of claim 28, in which said layer of foam
material has a thickness in the range of about 0.5 to 6 inches.
30. The barrier wall of claim 21 in which said hollow interior of
each barrier device is substantially filled with a foam
material.
31. A barrier device, comprising: a top wall, a bottom wall,
opposed end walls and opposed side walls interconnected to
collectively form a hollow interior; a seat formed in each of said
side walls; a barrier reinforcement structure including a first
beam mounted within said seat in one of said side walls, and a
second beam mounted within said seat in the other of said side
walls.
32. The barrier device of claim 31 in which said seat in each of
said side walls extends along the length of said side walls between
said opposed end walls.
33. The barrier device of claim 31 in which each of said first and
second beams is a box beam having a generally square cross section
with a hollow interior.
34. The barrier device of claim 31 in which each of said side walls
has an inner surface within said hollow interior and an outer
surface spaced from said inner surface, each of said seats having a
generally square cross section and extending inwardly from said
outer surface.
35. The barrier device of claim 31 in which each of said first and
second beam is a generally rectangular-shaped slat.
36. The barrier device of claim 35 in which each of said side walls
has an inner surface within said hollow interior and an outer
surface spaced from said inner surface, each of said seats having a
generally rectangular cross section and extending inwardly from
said outer surface.
37. A barrier wall, comprising: a number of individual barrier
devices connected end-to-end, each of said barrier devices
including: (i) a top wall, a bottom wall, opposed end walls and
opposed side walls interconnected to collectively form a hollow
interior; (ii) a seat formed in each of said side walls; (iii) a
barrier reinforcement structure including a first beam mounted
within said seat in one of said side walls, and a second beam
mounted within said seat in the other of said side walls;
connecting structure located at each end of said first beam and
said second beam of each barrier device, said connecting structure
being effective to connect said first beam of one barrier device to
said first beam of an adjacent barrier device and said second beam
of said one barrier device to said second beam of said adjacent
barrier device.
38. The barrier wall of claim 37 in which each of said first and
second beams is a generally rectangular-shaped slat.
39. The barrier wall of claim 38 in which each of said side walls
has an inner surface within said hollow interior and an outer
surface spaced from said inner surface, each of said seats having a
generally rectangular cross section and extending inwardly from
said outer surface.
40. The barrier wall of claim 38 in which said slats mounted to
said side walls of each of said barrier devices have opposed ends
which protrude beyond said end walls of said barrier devices, said
connecting structure including a througbore formed in the
protruding ends of said slats of each barrier device, said
throughbore in said slat of one barrier device aligning with said
throughbore in said slat of an adjacent barrier device in position
to receive a connector extending through said throughbores to
secure said slats together.
41. The barrier wall of claim 37 in which each of said first and
second beams is a box beam having a generally square cross section
with a hollow interior.
42. The barrier wall of claim 41 in which each of said side walls
has an inner surface within said hollow interior and an outer
surface spaced from said inner surface, each of said seats having a
generally square cross section and extending inwardly from said
outer surface.
43. The barrier wall of claim 41 in which said box beams mounted to
said side walls of each of said barrier devices have opposed ends
which protrude beyond said end walls of said barrier devices, said
connecting structure including a bracket extending between the
protruding end of a box beam of one barrier device and the
protruding end of a box beam of an adjacent barrier device to
connect said box beams together.
44. The barrier wall of claim 43 in which said bracket comprises a
first plate and a second plate each extending between said
protruding ends of said box beams of adjacent barrier devices, said
first and second plates being spaced from one another, a first
connector extending through said protruding end of said box beam of
one barrier device and mounting to each of said first and second
plates and a second connector extending through said protruding end
of said box beam of an adjacent barrier device and mounting to each
of said first and second plates.
45. The barrier wall of claim 41 in which said box beams mounted to
said side walls of each of said barrier devices have opposed ends
which protrude beyond said end walls of said barrier devices, said
connecting structure comprising a hitch device including a first
U-shaped member mounted to the protruding end of a box beam of one
barrier device, a second U-shaped member mounted to the protruding
end of a box beam of an adjacent barrier device and a coupler
connecting said first and second U-shaped members.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] This invention relates to barrier devices for vehicular and
vessel traffic control, soil erosion containment, impact
attenuation and the like which can be interconnected with one
another to define a continuous barrier wall structure and/or
connected in various combinations to form energy-absorbing cells,
and, more particularly, to barrier devices formed of a light weight
plastic having openings extending through the hollow interior of
the barrier which receive and mount external reinforcement
structure in the form of a pair of beams each extending along the
length of one of the side walls and are connected to one another
through the openings.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] A variety of different devices have been developed for
absorbing the kinetic energy of impact of colliding automobiles,
and for the containment of forces exerted by soil or water. Highway
barrier devices, for example, are intended to provide a continuous
wall or barrier along the center line of a highway when laid
end-to-end to absorb grazing blows from moving vehicles. One
commonly used highway barrier is formed of pre-cast reinforced
concrete, and is known as the "New Jersey" style barrier. Highway
barriers of this type have a relatively wide base including side
walls which extend vertically upwardly from the pavement a short
distance, then angle inwardly and upwardly to a vertically
extending top portion connected to the top wall of the barrier.
This design is intended to contact and redirect the wheels of a
vehicle in a direction toward the lane of traffic in which the
vehicle was originally traveling, instead of the lane of opposing
traffic. See U.S. Pat. No. 4,059,362.
[0003] One problem with highway barriers of the type described
above is the high weight of reinforced concrete. A barrier having a
typical length of twelve feet weighs about 2,800-3,200 pounds and
requires special equipment to load, unload and handle on site. It
has been estimated that for some road repairs, up to 40 percent of
the total cost is expended on acquiring, delivering and handling
concrete barriers. Additionally, concrete barriers have little or
no ability to absorb shock upon impact, and have a high friction
factor. This increases the damage to vehicles which collide with
such barriers, and can lead to serious injuries to passengers of
the vehicle.
[0004] In an effort to reduce weight, facilitate handling and
shipment, and provide improved absorption of impact forces, highway
barriers have been designed which are formed of a hollow plastic
container filled with water, sand or other ballast material such as
disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,681,302; 4,773,629; 4,846,306,
5,123,773 and 5,882,140. For example, the '302 patent discloses a
barrier comprising a container having a top wall, a bottom wall,
opposed side walls and opposed end walls interconnected to form a
hollow interior which is filled with water, and having fittings for
coupling one barrier to another to form a continuous wall. The
container structure is formed of a resilient material which is
deformable upon impact and capable of resuming its original shape
after being struck. Longitudinally extending, spaced traction
spoiler channels are said to reduce the area of potential impact
and thus the tendency of the vehicle to climb the walls of the
barrier and vault over it into the opposing lane of traffic.
[0005] The '629, '306, '773 and '140 patents noted above were
invented by the present inventor and represent further advances in
deformable highway barrier designs. The first two patents disclose
barriers which comprise a longitudinally extending container made
of semi-rigid plastic which is self-supporting, and has a
predetermined shape which is maintained when filled with water,
sand or other ballast material. Such devices are connected
end-to-end by a key insertable within grooves formed in the end
walls of adjacent barriers. Interconnected fill openings are
provided which permit adjacent barriers to be filled with water or
the like when laid end-to-end.
[0006] The '773 and '140 patents disclose further improvements in
barrier devices including side walls formed with higher curb
reveals, a horizontally extending step and vertical indentations in
order to assist in maintaining the structural integrity of the
container, and to create internal baffles for dampening movement of
water or other fluid within the container interior. Interlocking
male and female coupling elements are formed on opposite end walls
of the barrier to facilitate end-to-end connection thereof.
Additionally, such barriers are formed with channels or openings to
permit the insertion of the tines of a fork lift truck therein for
easy handling of the barriers.
[0007] Despite the improvements in highway barrier designs noted
above, some deficiencies nevertheless remain. One concern has been
with the ability of a wall of barriers, e.g. individual barriers
connected end-to-end, to withstand a direct impact by a speeding
vehicle. It has been found that plastic barriers tend to separate
from one another at their connections, and in some instances break
apart in response to the vehicle impact. Although concrete barriers
of the type described above also can break apart during a crash,
they are more resistant to that than plastic barriers and there is
a need for plastic barriers to demonstrate impact resistance
capabilities which more closely approximates those of concrete
barriers.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] It is therefore among the objectives of this invention to
provide a barrier device for use as a highway barrier or other
energy absorbing structure which is easily transported, handled and
assembled, but which is also resistant to being broken apart in
response to an impact with a vehicle.
[0009] These objectives are accomplished in a barrier device
comprising a top wall, a bottom wall, opposed end walls, and,
opposed side walls interconnected to form a hollow interior in
which a pair of spaced openings are formed which extend between the
side walls. An external reinforcement structure is provided to
enhance the structural integrity of the barrier device, including
first and second beams each extending along one of the side walls
which are connected to one another by a mounting device extending
through the openings, or, alternatively, are mounted within a seat
formed in each side wall between the opposed ends of the barrier
device. The beams of one barrier device, in turn, are connected
end-to-end with the beams of an adjacent barrier device to form an
essentially continuous, interconnected wall of barriers which
resist disengagement from one another and exhibit improved
resistance to being broken apart upon impact by a vehicle.
[0010] The openings extending through the hollow interior are fork
lift holes which are sized to receive the tines of a fork lift to
permit movement of the barrier device during loading, unloading and
assembly. In one presently preferred embodiment of this invention,
the external reinforcement structure comprises a first box beam and
a second box beam, each generally square in cross section and
formed of metal, rubber, composite material or the like. Each box
beam is hollow, at least at its opposite ends, in order to receive
and mount one end of a connector bar whose other end is mounted
within the box beam of an adjacent barrier device. The cross
section of the connector bar is sufficiently smaller than that of
the box beams to permit at least limited pivotal movement of the
connector bar within the beams, and hence, pivotal movement between
the adjacent barrier devices.
[0011] The two box beams are connected to one another by a pair of
brackets each including a plate mounted at each edge to one of a
pair of upstanding legs. One bracket is inserted within each of the
fork lift holes and has a length dimension such that its ends
protrude from the side walls. Each box beam rests atop a protruding
end of both brackets and is bolted in place to connect it to the
bracket and, in turn, to the box beam on the other side wall.
Because the brackets have upstanding legs, clearance is provided
within each fork lift hole to receive the tines of a fork lift even
with the brackets and box beams in place.
[0012] In an alternative embodiment, a pair of box beams similar to
those noted above are employed except they are connected to one
another by telescoping members associated with each beam. One of
the box beams mounts a pair of sleeves extending perpendicular
thereto, and the other box beam mounts a pair of arms which align
with the sleeves and are inserted therein when the beams are
positioned along the side walls. The box beams associated with one
barrier device are connected to those of an adjacent barrier by
means of telescoping ends of the beams. One end of each beam has a
reduced cross sectional area which telescopes into the opposite end
of an adjacent beam having a larger cross section. The beams of one
barrier device may be connected to the beams of an adjacent barrier
device by a friction fit, or with fasteners such as bolts.
[0013] Additional embodiments of this invention employ "beams" in
the form of the box beams noted above, or solid slats, which are
mounted within longitudinally extending seats formed in the side
walls of each barrier device between the end walls. These seats
receive and frictionally maintain the beams in place, and
connecting structure is provided to mount the ends of each beam of
one barrier device to those of an adjacent barrier device.
[0014] In another aspect of this invention, a rotational molding
process is employed to combine crosslinkable high density
polyethylene material with polyethylene foaming pellets to form the
barrier device noted above with walls having an interior surface
covered with a layer of foam. The plastic, polyethylene walls have
a thickness on the order of about 0.25 inches, and the foam layer
is in the range of about 0.5 to 6 inches in thickness depending
upon the amount of foaming pellets used. Fill holes are formed in
the top wall of the barrier so that water, sand or other ballast
material can be introduced into the hollow interior and into
contact with the foam layer. In an alternative embodiment,
substantially the entire hollow interior of the barrier is filled
with foam material. Preferably, a liquid material is introduced
into the hollow interior through one or more of the fill holes,
which then cures to form a foam which expands to fill all or a part
of the entire volume of the barrier interior.
[0015] It has been found that barrier devices filled with foam can
be interconnected end-to-end to form a barrier wall which readily
floats in water, and the external reinforcement structure adds
overall strength, rigidity and resistance to separation and
breaking apart of individual barriers within such barrier wall.
These floating barrier walls can be used in various naval
applications to encircle ships or other assets, or to segregate
areas within a port or dock area, as desired.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] The structure, operation and advantages of the presently
preferred embodiment of this invention will become further apparent
upon consideration of the following description, taken in
conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:
[0017] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the barrier of this
invention;
[0018] FIG. 2 is a plan view of the barrier depicted in FIG. 1,
with a second barrier shown in phantom at one end;
[0019] FIG. 3 is a side view of the barrier of FIG. 1;
[0020] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of two barriers connected
end-to-end with one embodiment of the external reinforcement
structure of this invention;
[0021] FIG. 5 is an exploded, perspective view of the mounting
bracket employed with the barriers claim 4;
[0022] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the assembled reinforcing
structure of FIG. 5;
[0023] FIG. 7 is a cross sectional view of the barrier shown in
FIG. 1 depicting the foam layer along the walls within the barrier
interior;
[0024] FIG. 8 is a view similar to FIG. 7 except with the hollow
interior of the barrier device completely filled with foam.
[0025] FIG. 9 is a view similar to FIG. 4, except depicting an
alternative embodiment of the external reinforcement structure of
this invention;
[0026] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the mounting bracket
employed in the embodiment of FIG. 9;
[0027] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the assembled external
reinforcement structure of the barrier device in FIG. 9;
[0028] FIG. 12 is a side elevational view of a portion of FIG.
11;
[0029] FIG. 13 is a plan view of a portion of FIG. 11;
[0030] FIG. 14 is a view similar to FIG. 4, except illustrating a
still further embodiment of the barrier of this invention;
[0031] FIG. 14A is a cross sectional view of a portion of a side
wall and slat shown in FIG. 14;
[0032] FIG. 15 is a view similar to FIG. 14, except depicting
another barrier according to this invention;
[0033] FIG. 15A is an enlarged view of the encircled portion of
FIG. 15;
[0034] FIG. 15B is an alternative embodiment of the encircled
portion of FIG. 15 showing another connector structure for securing
adjacent barriers to one another; and
[0035] FIG. 15C is a cross sectional view of a portion of side wall
and box beam shown in FIG. 15.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0036] Referring initially to FIGS. 1-4, the barrier device 10 of
this invention comprises a top wall 12, a bottom wall 14, opposed
end walls 16, 18, and, opposed side walls 20, 22 which are
interconnected to collectively define a hollow interior 24. In the
presently preferred embodiment, each of the walls 12-22 are formed
of a semi-rigid plastic material chosen from the group consisting
of low density polyethylene, high density polyethylene,
acrylonitrile or butadiene styrene, high impact styrene,
polycarbonates and the like. These plastic materials are all
inherently tough and exhibit good energy absorption
characteristics. They will also deform and elongate, but will not
fail in a brittle manner at energy inputs which cause other
materials to undergo brittle failure. The surfaces of these types
of plastic materials are inherently smoother than materials from
which other barriers are typically constructed, therefore creating
less friction and reducing the likelihood of serious abrasion
injuries to vehicles and/or passengers who may come into contact
therewith. Additionally, materials of this type are unaffected by
weather and have excellent basic resistance to weathering, leaching
and biodegradation. Additives such as ultraviolet inhibitors can be
added thereto, making such materials further resistant to the
effects of weather. They also retain their mechanical and chemical
properties at low ambient temperatures.
[0037] When using the barrier device 10 of this invention as a
highway barrier, the hollow interior 24 is preferably filled with a
"ballast" material such as water or other liquid, or a flowable
solid material such as sand, concrete and the like. For this
purpose, the walls 12-22 of barrier device 10 have a thickness in
the range of about one-eighth inch to one inch so as to perform
satisfactorily in service. The barrier device 10 is preferably in
the range of about six to eight feet in length, and, at the wall
thickness noted above, has a weight when empty of about 80 to 140
lbs. When filled with a liquid such as water, the overall weight of
the barrier is in the range of about 1400 to 2200 lbs. Flowable
solid material such as sand and the like increase the weight of
barrier 10 further.
[0038] For ease of understanding and discussion of the principal
aspects of this invention, the various structural elements of the
barrier device 10 are described below in relation to their
collective performance of a particular function of the barrier 10.
These functions include the ability of the barrier 10 to better
redirect and control the upper movement of a vehicle upon impact
therewith, the ability to resist lateral separation of adjacent
barriers 10 when they are joined end-to-end to form an essentially
continuous wall, the ability to resist break up or disintegration
of individual barriers in response to impact from a vehicle and the
ability to float in water.
[0039] Control of Vehicle Movement
[0040] The control of vehicle movement upon impact with the barrier
device 10 of this invention is achieved primarily by the material
with which the barrier 10 is constructed, and the configuration of
its side walls 20 and 22. Because both side walls 20, 22 are
identical in configuration, only side wall 20 is described in
detail herein, it being understood that the side wall 22 is formed
with the identical structure and functions in the same manner.
[0041] The side wall 20 includes a substantially vertically
extending curb reveal 26 which extends from the bottom wall 14 to a
horizontally extending ledge or step 28 best shown in FIG. 1.
Preferably, the curb reveal 26 has a vertical height of nine
inches, measured from the bottom wall 14 upwardly, which is at
least two inches greater than the curb reveals of other highway
barrier devices, such as disclosed, for example, in my prior U.S.
Pat. No. 5,123,773. The horizontal extent of the step 28 is
preferably on the order of about 11/2 inches measured in the
direction from the outer edge of curb reveal 26 toward the hollow
interior 24 of barrier device 10.
[0042] Extending upwardly at an acute angle from the step 28 is an
intermediate section 30 which terminates at a vertically extending
upper section 32. The upper section 32, in turn, extends from the
intermediate section 30 to the top wall 12 of barrier 10 which is
formed with a pair of fill holes 33 preferably having a diameter in
the range of about 3-4 inches. In the presently preferred
embodiment, a number of stabilizers 34 are integrally formed in the
intermediate section 30, at regularly spaced intervals between the
end walls 16, 18. Each stabilizer 34 includes a base 36 and opposed
sides 38 and 40. As best seen in FIG. 1, the base 36 of each
stabilizer 34 is coplanar with the step 28 and is supported by an
internally located support 42 shown in phantom lines in FIG. 3. The
sides 38, 40 of each stabilizer 34 taper inwardly, toward one
another, from the base 36 to a point substantially coincident with
the uppermost edge of intermediate section 30 where the upper
section 32 of side wall 20 begins. In the presently preferred
embodiment, a throughbore 44 extends from the base 36 of one or
more of the stabilizers 34, through the internal support 42 and out
the bottom wall 14 of barrier 10. One or more of these throughbores
44 receive an anchoring device such as a stake 46, shown in phantom
in FIG. 3, which can be driven into the ground or other surface
upon which the barrier device 10 rests to secure it in an
essentially permanent position thereon.
[0043] Enhanced control and redirection of the path of a vehicle
impacting the barrier device 10 of this invention is achieved with
the above-described structure as follows. The increased height of
the curb reveal 26 of side wall 20, e.g., nine inches compared to
seven inches or less for conventional barriers, is effective to
engage and redirect the tires of a vehicle toward the lane in which
the vehicle was traveling instead of in a direction toward the
barrier 10 or the opposing lane of traffic. The curb reveal 26 is
strengthened and reinforced by the presence of the horizontally
extending ledge or step 28 and the stabilizers 34.
[0044] In the event the vehicle tires nevertheless extend above the
curb reveal 26 upon impact, the intermediate and upper sections 30
and 32 are designed to resist further upward movement of the
vehicle therealong. While the stabilizers 34 in intermediate
section 30 function to add rigidity and stability to the overall
barrier 10, the intermediate section 30 is nevertheless designed to
at least partially collapse inwardly or buckle in response to the
application of an impact force thereto. The extent of inward motion
of buckling is controlled, at least to some extent, by the diameter
of the fill holes 33 in the top wall 12. When the barrier interior
24 is filled with water, for example, the impact of a vehicle with
a barrier side wall 20 or 22 causes such water to displace from the
area of contact. Some of the water is forcefully discharged from
the interior 24 through the fill holes 33, and the amount of such
energy displacement is dependent on the diameter of the holes 33.
The greater the diameter, the greater the amount of water
displaced, and, hence, the more the barrier side wall 20 or 22 is
permitted to buckle. It has been found that a fill hole 33 diameter
of about 3-4 inches, noted above, is optimum wherein sufficient
buckling of the side walls 20, 22 is permitted for the purposes
described below without permanent damage to the barrier 10 upon
impact with a vehicle. In the presently preferred embodiment, when
the intermediate section 30 buckles inwardly, a pivot point is
created about which the upper section 32 can move in a generally
downward direction. Consequently, the tire and/or bumper of the
vehicle is impacted by the upper section 32 of barrier device 10
and urged downwardly, back toward the pavement or ground along
which the vehicle was traveling. This substantially prevents the
vehicle from vaulting over the top of the barrier 10 and entering
the opposing lane of traffic. Despite such movement of the
intermediate and upper sections 30, 32 in response to impact, the
material from which barrier device 10 is constructed allows such
sections 30, 32 to return to their original shape after
deformation.
[0045] In the presently preferred embodiment, a drain hole 76 is
formed along each of the end walls 18 and 20 thereof near the
bottom wall 14 to allow passage of water and the like from one side
of the barrier device 10 to the other. Water or other flowable
material is introduced into the hollow interior 24 of the barrier
device 10 via the fill holes 33 formed in top wall 12. These fill
holes 33 can also receive the post of a sign or the like (not
shown) extendable into the barrier interior 24. As shown in FIG. 2,
a post boot 78 is formed at the bottom wall 14 of barrier 10, in
alignment with each fill hole 33, to receive and support the post
of a sign inserted through the fill hole 33. Preferably, the top
wall 12 is formed with an elongated channel 80 leading to each fill
hole 33 to allow for the flow of rainwater into the hollow interior
24. The top wall 12 is also formed with an internally extending
seat 82 which is adapted to mount an internal light fixture (not
shown) for illuminating the barrier device 10 from the inside. The
details of such lighting construction form no part of this
invention and are thus not discussed herein.
[0046] Resistance to Barrier Disengagement and Break Up
[0047] Another general aspect of the construction of the barrier
device 10 of this invention involves a number of elements designed
to resist disengagement of adjacent barrier devices 10 and 10' when
they are arranged end-to-end to form an essentially continuous
wall, and to resist the break up or disintegration of individual
barrier devices 10 and 10' in response to impact by a vehicle. Two
barrier devices 10 and 10' are depicted in FIGS. 4 and 9, which are
identical in structure and function. The same reference numbers are
therefore used to identify like structure, with the addition of a
"'" to the numbers associated with barrier 10' on the right-hand
side of FIGS. 4 and 9.
[0048] Each end wall 16 of barriers 10 is formed with an internally
extending recess 48 near the bottom wall 14, which receives an
outwardly protruding extension 52 formed on the end wall 18 of an
adjacent barrier 10. The upper portion of end wall 16 is formed
with a slot 56, and the upper portion of end wall 18 is formed with
a slot 58. Each slot 56, 58 has an inner, generally
cylindrical-shaped portion 59 and a narrower, substantially
rectangular-shaped portion 61 at their respective end walls 16, 18.
The slots 56, 58 extend from the top wall 12 downwardly to a point
near the juncture of the upper section 32 and intermediate section
30.
[0049] When two barrier devices 10 and 10' are oriented end-to-end,
with the end wall 16 of one barrier 10 abutting the end wall 18' of
an adjacent barrier 10', the slots 56, 58 collectively form a
barbell-shaped locking channel 60 shown in FIG. 4 and also depicted
in phantom at the bottom of FIG. 2. This locking channel 60
receives a coupler 62 having cylindrical ends 64, 66 and a
rectangular center section 67, which is removably insertable
therein and extends substantially along the entire length of the
locking channel 60. The cylindrical ends 64, 66 of coupler 62 pivot
within the correspondingly shaped cylindrical portions 59, 59' of
slots 56, 58', so that one barrier device 10 can be pivoted with
respect to an adjacent barrier 10' to assist with alignment
thereof, and to allow the barriers 10, 10' when placed end-to-end
to follow curves along a particular highway or other location where
they are placed.
[0050] Additionally, a pair of hollow channels 68 and 70 are
located within the hollow interior 24 of barrier device 10 and
extend between the side walls 20, 22. A portion of both channels
68, 70 is located in the intermediate section 30 of each side wall
20, 22, and extends partially into the upper sections 32 thereof.
The two channels 68, 70 are positioned in the spaces between the
three stabilizers 34 formed in the side walls 20, 22, and provide
added internal support to the barrier 10 so that it retains its
shape when filled with a ballast material. Each of the channels 68
and 70 define a pass-through hole or opening 72 adapted to receive
the tines of a forklift truck to permit handling of the barriers
10.
[0051] In the presently preferred embodiment, a drain hole 76 is
formed along each of the end walls 18 and 20 thereof near the
bottom wall 14 to allow passage of water and the like from one side
of the barrier device 10 to the other. Water or other flowable
material is introduced into the hollow interior 24 of the barrier
device 10 via the fill holes 33 formed in top wall 12. These fill
holes 33 can also receive the post of a sign or the like (not
shown) extendable into the barrier interior 24. As shown in FIG. 2,
a post boot 78 is formed at the bottom wall 14 of barrier 10, in
alignment with each fill hole 33, to receive and support the post
of a sign inserted through the fill hole 33. Preferably, the top
wall 12 is formed with an elongated channel 80 leading to each fill
hole 33 to allow for the flow of rainwater into the hollow interior
24. The top wall 12 is also formed with an internally extending
seat 82 which is adapted to mount an internal light fixture (not
shown) for illuminating the barrier device 10 from the inside. The
details of such lighting construction form no part of this
invention and are thus not discussed herein.
[0052] With reference to FIGS. 9-13, one embodiment of the external
reinforcement structure of this invention is shown. Preferably, the
reinforcing structure comprises a first beam 90 and a second beam
92 which are connected to one another by a pair of mounting
brackets 94 and 96. As shown, the beams 90, 92 are preferably
hollow box beams having a generally square cross section which can
be formed of metal, rubber, composite material or the like. The
mounting brackets 94 and 96 each include a plate 98 whose opposite
side edges are mounted to or integrally formed with vertically
upstanding legs 100 and 102. The mounting bracket 94 is inserted
within the opening 72 formed by channel 68, and the mounting
bracket 96 is inserted within the opening 72 formed by channel 70
such that opposite ends of each mounting bracket 94, 96 protrude
from one of the side walls 20 and 22. As best seen in FIGS. 9 and
11, with the mounting brackets 94, 96 in this position, the box
beams 90 and 92 are connected to respective ends of the brackets
94, 96 such as by bolts 104. Because the mounting brackets 94, 96
include the upstanding legs 100 and 102, the channels 72 are not
completely obstructed upon assembly of the beams 90, 92 and the
tines of a fork lift can still be inserted within the openings 72
with the mounting brackets 94, 96 and beams 90, 92 assembled to the
barrier 10 or 10'.
[0053] In order to interconnect the beams 90, 92 of one barrier
device 10 to those of an adjacent barrier device 10', a connector
bar 106 is inserted within one open end of each beam 90, 92 and
retained in place by bolts 104. The connector bars 106 have a cross
sectional area which is sufficiently less than that of the ends of
beams 90, 92 to permit pivotal motion of the beams 90, 92 of
barrier 10 relative to the beams 90', 92' of barrier 10' as
depicted in FIGS. 12 and 13. The view in FIG. 12 is representative
of vertically upward and downward relative movement of two beams 90
and 90' from barrier devices 10 and 10', respectively, which in the
orientation as shown, amounts to about 20 movement of each relative
to a horizontal plane 107 and 4.degree. of movement with respect to
one another. FIG. 13 illustrates relative side-to-side horizontal
movement of the beams 90 and 90' in an amount of about 4.degree.
measured from the horizontal plane 109 and about 8.degree. with
respect to one another. This feature enables one barrier device 10
to pivot relative to an adjacent barrier device 10' to accommodate
at least gradual curves and height differentials when forming a
barrier wall, and to facilitate assembly of the barriers 10,
10'.
[0054] Referring now to FIGS. 4-6, an alternative embodiment of the
external reinforcement structure of this invention is shown. Box
beams 110 and 112 are provided, which, like the beams 90 and 92
noted above, are preferably square in cross section and formed of
metal, rubber, composite material or the like. The box beam 110 has
a pair of spaced arms 114 and 116 which extend perpendicularly
therefrom, and box beam 112 is formed with a pair of
perpendicularly extending sleeves 118 and 120. When the beams 110
and 112 are in position along the side wall 20 and 22,
respectively, the arms 114, 116 of beam 110 register and telescope
within the sleeves 118, 120 to hold them together. See FIG. 6.
[0055] Instead of a connector bar 106 used in the embodiment of
FIGS. 4-8, the beams 90, 92 of one barrier 10 are connected to
respective beams 90', 92' of an adjacent barrier 10' with reduced
area extensions 122 formed at one end of each beam 90, 92. As best
seen in FIG. 4, the extensions 122 at the end of beams 90, 92 of
barrier 10 are inserted within the respective aligning ends of the
beams 90', 92' of barrier 10' to connect them together. Such
connection can be a friction fit between the extensions 122 and
beams 90', 92' or bolts (not shown) can be employed.
[0056] Still further embodiments of the external reinforcement
structure according to this invention are shown in FIGS. 14 to 15C.
These embodiments differ from those described above because instead
of securing beams to mounting devices carried by channels 68 and
70, the barriers 10, 10' are modified to incorporate seats in each
side wall which mount a beam or slat. The protruding ends of such
beams or slats from one barrier are connected to those of an
adjacent barrier to form a barrier wall.
[0057] Referring initially to FIGS. 14 and 14A, each side wall 20
and 22 of the barrier 10 is formed with a seat 130 which extends
longitudinally between the opposed end walls 16 and 18. Each seat
130 extends from the outer surface of a respective side wall 20, 22
toward the hollow interior 24 of the barrier device 10, forming an
inner wall 132, a top wall 134 and a bottom wall 136. See FIG. 14A.
These walls 132, 134 and 136 of the seat 130 receive and tightly
frictionally engage a generally rectangular-shaped slat 138, which
is formed of metal or other rigid material and has a solid cross
section. Preferably, the depth of the seat 130 is approximately
equal to the thickness of the slat 138 so that the slat 138 is
substantially flush with the outer surface of the side walls 20, 22
when mounted in place.
[0058] As seen in FIG. 14, opposite ends 140 and 142 of each slat
138, and opposite end 140', 142' of slat 138', protrude beyond the
end walls 16, 18 of the barrier devices 10, 10' respectively, and
are formed with a through bore 144. In order to connect adjacent
barrier devices 10 and 10' together, the through bore 144 in the
protruding end 142 of slat 138 of barrier device 10 is aligned with
the through bore 144 in the protruding end 140' of the slat 138' in
the barrier device 10'. A bolt 146 is then inserted through the
aligning through bores 244 and secured by a nut. Alternatively, a
rod (not shown) can be inserted through the aligning through bores
144 and secured with a cotter pin.
[0059] Referring now to FIGS. 15-15C, essentially the same concept
described above in connection with FIGS. 14-14B is employed except
using box beams 150 instead of slats 138. The side walls 20 and 22
of barrier 10 are each formed with a seat 152 having a cross
section defined by an inner wall 154, spaced from the outer surface
of the side walls 20, 22, a top wall 156 and a bottom wall 158.
Each seat 152 frictionally engages a box beam 150, which are
essentially the same construction as the box beams 92 and 112
described above. Preferably, the depth of the seat 152 and the
width of the box beam 150 are approximately equal so that the box
beam 150 is flush with the outer surface of each side wall 20,
22.
[0060] Two different structures for connecting the box beams 150
and 150' of adjacent barriers 10 and 10' are depicted in FIGS. 15A
and 15B, although it is contemplated that other connectors could be
employed. As seen in FIG. 15, opposite ends 160 and 162 of each box
beam 150 protrude beyond respective end walls 16 and 18 of the
barrier device 10, and the ends 160', 162' of box beam 150'
protrude beyond the end walls 16', 18' of barrier device 10'. In
the embodiment of FIG. 1SA, the protruding end 162 of box beam 150
mounted to the barrier 10 is connected to the protruding end 160'
of the box beam 150' of the barrier 10' by a bracket 164. The
bracket 164 comprises a top plate 166 which spans between and rests
atop the protruding ends 162 and 160' of the box beams 150, 150',
and a bottom plate 168 extending along the bottom surface of the
protruding ends 162, 160'. A pin, bolt of other connector 170 is
inserted through one end of both plates 166, 168 and the box beam
150 of barrier 10, as well as the opposite end of both plates 166,
168 and the box beam 150' of the barrier 10'. Preferably, a pin is
employed for the connectors 170 to permit at least limited pivotal
motion of the barriers 10 and 10' relative to one another, i.e.,
each of the plates 166 and 168 can rotate about the pin connector
170, thus allowing the barriers 10, 10' to pivot.
[0061] An alternative embodiment of the connecting device between
the beams 150 and 150' of adjacent barriers 10, 10' is shown in
FIG. 15B. This connecting device, or "hitch connector," includes a
first U-shaped member 172 mounted to the protruding end 162 of
barrier 10, a second U-shaped member 174 mounted to the protruding
end 160' of barrier 10' and a coupler 176 extending between the
members 172, 174.
[0062] Preferably, the members 172, 174 are welded or other
permanently mounted to the beams 150, 150'. The coupler 176 is
formed in the general shape of a C-clamp with arms 178 and 180
which engage respective members 172, 174. The free ends of arms
178, 180 and are joined by a bolt 182 to secure the coupler 176 in
place. Each of the beams 150, 150' are permitted to pivot at their
connection to the coupler 176, which, in turn, allows the barriers
10 and 10' pivot relative to one another.
[0063] It is believed that the combination of; (1) the extension
52-recess 48 connection; (2) the coupler 62 and locking channel 60
engagement; (3) the stake(s) 46 or other anchoring device secured
within the throughbores 44 noted above, and (4) the external
reinforcing structure described in connection with a discussion of
FIGS. 4-6 and 9-15D collectively provides improved resistance to
disengagement between adjacent barriers 10 compared to prior
barrier designs.
[0064] Flotation of Barrier Devices
[0065] With reference to FIG. 7, in one preferred embodiment of
this invention structure is provided to allow the barrier devices
10 and 10' to float by resisting leakage of water within which the
device 10 is placed into the hollow interior 24 of the barrier
device 10. Each of the walls 12, 14, 16, 18, 20 and 22 is formed
with an inner surface 130 located within the hollow interior 24 and
an exterior, outer surface 132. These inner surfaces 130 receive a
foam layer 134 having a thickness in the range of about 0.5 to 6
inches. The remainder of the hollow interior 24 is open and can be
filled with ballast material through fill holes 33 in the manner
described above. The foam layer 134 is effective to seal the inner
surface 130 of each wall and substantially prevent leakage of water
into the hollow interior 24. Additionally, the foam layer 134 is
puncture resistant, particularly as its thickness is increased, and
therefore resists leakage even if the plastic walls of the barrier
are damaged by fork lifts or other equipment during transit or
assembly of the barriers 10.
[0066] The method of forming the barrier device 10 with the foam
layer 94 forms no part of this invention, and is therefore not
discussed in detail herein. Generally, a rotational molding process
is employed in which a polyethylene resin and polyethylene foaming
pellets are combined in a mold to form the completed barrier. Each
of the walls 12, 14, 16, 18, 20 and 22 is therefore formed of a
high density polyethylene using this molding technique, preferably
having a thickness on the order of about 0.25 inches. One type of
polyethylene resin suitable for forming the plastic walls of the
barrier 10 are commercially available from ExxonMobil Chemical
under the trademark "PAXON," Type Numbers 7004 and 7204 rotational
molding resins.
[0067] One foam material which can be employed in the rotational
molding process noted above to form the foam layer 134 is
commercially available from Equistar Chemicals, Inc. of Houston,
Tex. under the trademark "PETROTHENE." A structural foam,
semi-rigid foam or flexible PETROTHENE foam may be employed in the
barrier 10 and 10' of this invention, whose properties and type
numbers are as follows:
1 Property Nominal Value Units MSTR005-Structural Foam Density 7
lb/ft.sup.3 Compressive Modulus 800 psi Shrinkage (w/MSTR003, 4
skin) 0.010-0.015 in/in Thermal Conductivity (k) 0.435 BTU in/hr
ft.sup.2 .degree. F. MSTR008-Semi-Rigid Foam Density 4 lb/ft.sup.3
Compressive Modulus 180 psi Shrinkage (w/MSTR003, 4 skin)
0.010-0.015 in/in Thermal Conductivity (k) 0.384 BTU in/hr ft.sup.2
.degree. F. MSTR007-Flexible Foam Density 2 lb/ft.sup.3 Compressive
Modulus 35 psi Shrinkage (w/MSTR003, 4 skin) 0.010-0.015 in/in
Thermal Conductivity (k) 0.357 BTU in/hr ft.sup.2 .degree. F.
[0068] In most instances it is contemplated that a semi-rigid foam
would be employed to form the foam layer 134, such as PETROTHENE
Type No. MSTR008, depending on the particular application for which
the barrier device is intended. If additional structural rigidity
is required, a denser foam with increased compressive modulus may
be used such as PETROTHENE Type No. MSTR005. Further, the overall
thickness of the foam layer 134 can be controlled in the molding
process to increase or decrease the rigidity of the barrier 10,
i.e., the thicker the foam layer 94 the more rigid the walls
12-22.
[0069] Referring now to FIG. 8, a further embodiment of this
invention is shown in which the hollow interior 24 of the barrier
10 is completely filled with a foam material to form a solid foam
body 136. One presently preferred foaming material is a
two-component polyether-based, low density pour-in-place urethane
foam commercially available from North Carolina Foam Industries of
Mount Airy, N.C. under the name "NCFI Low Density Pour System
31-120." The resin properties and reaction properties of this
material are as follows:
2 31-120R 31-120A TYPICAL RESIN PROPERTIES: Viscosity @ 72.degree.
F. 500 cps 200 cps Weight Per Gallon 9.5 lbs. 10.2 lbs. Appearance
amber liquid brown liquid Shelf Life 6 months 6 months MIX RATIO:
Ratio By Weight 100 parts 107 parts Ratio By Volume 100 parts 100
parts TYPICAL REACTION PROPERTIES: Hand Mix @ 72.degree. F. Cream
Time, seconds 32 Gel Time, seconds 140 Rise Time, seconds 210
Density (FRC) 1.9 pcf
[0070] As noted above and shown in FIGS. 4 and 9, adjacent barriers
10 can be connected end-to-end to form a barrier wall. With the
barriers filled with foaming material to form a solid foam body 136
within the hollow interior 24, the individual barriers 10 and
collectively formed barrier wall readily floats in water. Although
the embodiment of the barrier 10 shown in FIG. 7 will also float,
it is contemplated that that the provision of a foam body 136
within the barrier interior 24 will result in a more durable
structure with better integrity in the event of impact with a
vessel or other object. A barrier wall formed with individual
barrier devices 10 and 10' of the type shown in FIG. 13 can be
utilized in a variety of marine applications to encircle vessels
and other objects in the water, as well as to prevent access to
given areas within a port or docking area as desired. Further
resistance to impact is provided with the addition of the external
reinforcement structure shown in FIGS. 4-6 or 9-13, in combination
with the barrier devices 10 including foam material depicted in
FIGS. 7 and 8.
[0071] While the invention has been described with reference to a
preferred embodiment, it should be understood by those skilled in
the art that various changes may be made and equivalents
substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope
of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to
adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the
invention without departing from the essential scope thereof.
[0072] For example, while the barrier 10 of FIG. 8 is illustrated
with a foam body 136 which substantially entirely occupies the
volume of the hollow interior 24, a foam body of lesser volume
could be employed. Additionally, the "external reinforcing
structure" of this invention is characterized as a "beam" and
depicted in the Figs. as either a hollow member having a generally
square cross section (FIGS. 4-6, 9-13 and 15-15C) or a solid,
substantially rectangular-shaped slat (FIGS. 14 and 14A). It should
be understood that the term "beam" as used herein is not limited to
the particular structures shown, but is meant to broadly include
hollow and solid members of essentially any cross sectional shape
as well as members whose outer surface includes openings such as a
cage structure or the like.
[0073] Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited
to the particular embodiment disclosed as the best mode
contemplated for carrying out this invention, but that the
invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of
the appended claims.
* * * * *