The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Aug. 20, 2002
Filed:
Oct. 20, 1999
Leora H Saviano, Norwalk, CT (US);
Paul G Saviano, Norwalk, CT (US);
Other;
Abstract
A flexible structural barrier is provided which is capable of yielding upon application of excessive force and immediately recovering to a rigid state with removal of the force, without either sustaining damage or imparting damage to the source of the force. The flexible structural barrier is made of a flexible material arranged to form a generally tubular structure when an appropriate air flow is establish therethrough. The flexible structural barrier is normally in a retracted or collapsed condition and is extended to an extended condition by the appropriate air flow, either automatically or upon demand. The barrier preferably includes an air flow source which is connected in fluid communication with the flexible material and is adapted to establish the appropriate air flow through the flexible material. The barrier may further include a return mechanism which is arranged to retract the flexible material from the extended condition to the retracted or collapsed condition when the air flow is stopped or not established. Although the barrier has many other applications, it is especially adapted for use in connection with a school bus to deter vehicles from passing the bus when stopped to load or unload students. The barrier is also especially adapted for use in connection with a semi-tractor trailer to deter vehicles from entering the swing-space when the semi-tractor trailer is turning.