Guardrail terminals
US8517349B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 5, 2000 |
| Grant date | Aug 27, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 20, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE01F15/143
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
Devices and methods for supporting guardrail terminal installations that incorporate safety end treatments such as the GET and the SRT. Preferred embodiments are described wherein guardrail terminal installations are primarily anchored to the ground using weak support posts that are preferably made of metal. The ends of the guardrail installation are secured to the ground using breakaway posts. In operation, the weak posts permit the central portion of the guardrail installation to contain and redirect the vehicle during a lateral collision to the rail member. The anchorage provided by the breakaway end posts helps prevent the guardrail from being excessively displaced, thus preventing the impacting vehicle from breaking through the guardrail. In operation, guardrail terminal assemblies constructed in accordance with the present invention provide an improved support system for the rail member which is more forgiving than conventional strong post anchorages, thereby providing an improvement in safety. At the present time, the invention has particular application in some non-U.S. countries, where it is required or highly preferred that metal support posts be used either completely or…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.