Flexible support
US6375385B1 · kind B1 · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 4, 1999 |
| Grant date | Apr 23, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 4, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE01F9/65
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A flexible support is constructed by mechanically laminating a plurality of relatively wide, thin, elongate flexible members together. The members are preferably formed of spring steel, and each individually is quite flexible due to the thin configuration. Preferably, each of the members is curved about its longitudinal axis to provide additional rigidity. The members are used to support traffic delineators, road signs, and/or other objects as desired, with the strength and resiliency required being adjusted by adjusting the number of individual members comprising each laminated support. The flexibility may be further adjusted by placement of one or more tension adjusters at one or more points along the length of the laminated support, with the attachments for the tension adjusters also being used to secure the laminations together. The fasteners used may be installed through holes formed through the support, or may pass laterally about the sides or edges of the support. The tension adjusters may also be used for securing signs or other objects to the support, and/or for the attachment of additional brackets extending laterally from the support for holding additional signs or other…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.