GB2495344A

GB2495344A - Reflective kerbstones

Info

Publication number: GB2495344A
Application number: GB1202014.5A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Vikas Kumar
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2011-10-05
Filing date: 2012-02-06
Publication date: 2013-04-10
Also published as: GB201117078D0; GB201202014D0

Abstract

The reflective kerbstones may be formed from plastic, concrete or recycled polymer materials and are provided with reflective or retro-reflective banding 6. A gap is preferably provided surface of the kerbstone within which a reflective/retro-reflective sheet can be placed. The reflective material may be fitted with nuts and bolts 7 or screws or may be self-adhesive.

Description

INTELLECTUAL

*. . PROPERTY OFFICE Applicalion No. GB1202014.5 R.TM Datc:8 Jonc 2012 The following terms are registered trademarks and should be read as such wherever they occur in this document: Flexibright Diamond Grade Intellectual Property Office is an operaling name of Ihe Patent Office www.ipo.gov.uk

Description

Title: REFLECTIVE KERBSTONE

Background:

I do hereby submit the new invention for Reflective Kerbstone. I request you that the patent may be granted to myself based on the information submitted in this application.

When the vehicles or pedestrians are using the toads, the current kerbs which Highway Agencies and Local Authorities are using do not provide adequate visibility and warning to the users which makes driving difficult in adverse weather or poor lit areas or at night. To overcome this I have invented a new revolutionary kind of Kerbstone which would be visible in all weather conditions from near and also from a distance. This will enable the road users to clearly see the road edges, traffic island edges and road layout whether it is dark, rainy or normal condition and also enable to flow the rain or spilled water off kerbs. As this invention would çnfijm to AS EN standards, it will dearly save lives, prevent accidents due to poor visibility of road edges especially in wintery and rainy weather, and also save millions of pounds not only for Local Authorities and Highway Agencies but for Insurance companies and to road users as well.

Advantages: Kerbs channels and edgings have been used to restrain the edges of roads and footways since Roman times and precast concrete kerbs have been in use for over seven decades.

The concrete kerbs are widely used by Highway Agency and Local Councils to maintain highway to meet modern needs of road safety including vehicle containment. These vehicle containment kerbs and products also facilitate bus access to all on the bus stop. The kerbs help both able and disabled people to safely use the road. They mark the difference between road and footway, giving a visual warning to pedestrians and vehicles about the change of road/cmssing level. They are also used to create Traffic islands for pedestrian crossing.

This invention is for a unique kind of Reflective Kerbstone which will revolutionise the way people use road. Due to its unique design and features, this invention improves road safety significantly. It is likely to prevent many accidents which occurs due to poor visibility of road edges saving millions of pounds of Highway Agencies and Local Authorities in repair bills. In addition to this it is also likely to save millions of pounds of Insurance companies as there are likely to be less claims, therefore would help pass on the benefits of the savings to its consumers.

Kerbs, channels and edgings are used wherever a pavement edge restraint or drainage channel is required, including ÷ Pedestrian areas 4 Traffic Islands 4 Domestic drives C' Pedestrian Crossings + Public, private & commercial footways O School playgrounds * Pedestrian/vehicular precincts and driveways 4 carriageways industrial pavements New versions of the kerb solution continue to be developed to meet specific demands. For example, high containment kerbs offer simple system for passive traffic control, contributing towards better road safety and protecting pedestrians. Other precast concrete kerb products have been developed to facilitate access by wheelchair users, people with prams, the ambulant disabled and others. These Kerbs are manufactured using three main processes semi -dry, wet pressed and wet cast, although the majority are produced by hydraulic pressing, with some very specialist kerb components like wet cast. The kerbs are useful for the effective edging to roads and footways in historic towns and conservation areas as well.

Some other kerb manufactured today are quite light weight but strong and also come with interlocking. These kerbs are easy to lift and install. Some of these light weight kerbs are manufactured using blend of recycled Polymers and are tested to specifications by BBA in accordance with BS EN 1340 and compressive strength (BS607212). Majority of Kerbstone is Grey in colour and is used to give edging to roads so the road users and pedestrians can spot the difference in both areas. BUT due to dark or dull colour, they are very difficult to see. Whether it is dark or rainy or adverse weather condition, the grey colour kerb makes it difficult for road users (vehicles) and pedestrians to spot the difference in both areas.

The new revolutionary Reflective Kerb can be made either using Precast concrete or recycled polymers or mix of both and can easily me bade off-site under factory condition.

Precast concrete kerbs would be mechanically handled and laid on site to optimise efficiency and ensure consistent quality. Reflective jCerbstone must comply with aIr aspects of test procedures stipulated in current Standards designed to replicate performance in use over time. The European Standard BS EN 1340, Concrete Kerb Units -Requirements and Test Methods provides this reassurance for precast concrete kerbs.

Keeping all these things mind our new revolutionary invention of Reflective Kerbstone will also be made off site. This new revolutionary Reflective Kerbstone wilt have a reflective strip 6 (Figure 2A on Drawings -Page 1 and subsequent figures) instafled just above 175 mm from bottom of kerbstone (above waterline and facing road) as shown in figure 1, 24, 2B, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 & 9. This can be done by using many methods, one of which is by installing the nuts 7 (Figure 2A on Drawings -Page 1 and subsequent figures) in the kerb while it is semi dry condition, and is in its mould and while it is being manufactured off site. Once it is completely dry, a CJass I or Class 2 retro reflective sheet 6 (Figure 2A on Drawings -Page 1 and subsequent figures) approved by BS ES Standards such as 3M 4081 or any such approved material can be affixed on top of the Kerbstone with the help of bolts or setscrews 7 (Figure 2A on Drawings -Page 1 and subsequent figures). The retro reflective sheet can be of any size, shape or colour approved by Department of Transport, highway Agency, Local Authorities or any relevant authorities. As per our designs below it is ether 25mm, 40mm or 50mm, 75mm or 100mm in height but it depends on the Department of Transport, Highway Agency, Local Authority or any relevant authorities to specify the size required.

Second method could be to install a durable vacuum foamed polypropylene plastic sheet or alloy sheet or sheet made with any kind of metal or plastic as shown in 11 (Figure 8 on Drawings -Page 5 and subsequent figures) matching the same width, height and length of self adhesive retro reflective sheet during the manufacturing process. The polypropylene sheet can be attached to the kerb either when it is semi dry so that it gets embedded in the kerb or to affix it using nuts & screws 7 (Figure 2A on Drawings -Page 1 and subsequent figures) after the kerb is dry and is fully ready. Application of durable self adhesive retro reflective sheet such as VC 612 Flexibright or 3290i by 3M or retro reflective sheet such as 3M 4081 takes place on top of the polypropylene sheet or alloy sheet or sheet made with any kind of metal or plastic, once the manufacturing process of the kerbstone is complete.

This retro reflective self adhesive sheeting is approved by BS Standards and can easily be maintained and replaced. This revolutionary reflective kerbstone is expected to be highly cost effective as the reflective sheets can easily be removed and replaced within very little time.

The Reflective Kerbstone would be manufactured as per guidelines laid out by British Standards and would also demonstrates conformity to the 85 EN 1340. These tests include: + Strength *. Weathering resistance * Abrasion Resistance + Slip/Skid Resistance What this invention will be used for: 4 Road Safety and improved visibifity of kerbs on roads.

4 Greater Visibility of traffic islands on the road.

4 Provide additional strength to the edge of the carriageway while making it highly visible for oncoming vehicular traffic or to pedestrian 4 To provide a combined safe and highly visual kerb embedded with reflectors for clear visibility to road users be it motorist, pedestrian or cyclist.

* Main components and how they work.

+ Kerbstone (Concrete, Precast Recycled Polymers or any other kind) 6 Reflectors C. Nut & Bolt -to be fitted off site during manufacturing of Reflective Kerbstone for easy installation or removal or replacement. Reflectors will be embedded in the manufacturing process.

4. Vacuum Foamed Polypropylene Sheet OR 4 Alloy sheet or sheet made with any kind of metal or plastic + High grade Class 1/2 Reflective self adhesive strips (BRITISH STANDARDS APPROVED) as per present guidelines or any future guidelines as & when available.

+ Reflector on the surface area of reflective kerb (BRITISH STANDARDS APPROVED) as per present guidelines or any future guidelines as & when available.

In order that the invention and design can be more clearly understood, characteristics and features with specifications are described below and with reference to attached drawings. In the drawings: Figure 1 on Description Page 1: Is overview of the reflective kerbstones.

Drawings Pages: Figure 2A Page 1: is the overview of the design of curved reflective kerbstone.

Figure 2A Page 1: 1 shows the surface level of the reflective kerbstone.

Figure 24 Page 1: 2 shows the smooth curved shape of the reflective kerbstone.

Figure 2A Page 1: 3 shows the height of the reflective kerbstone.

Figure 2A Page 1: 4 Shows width of the reflective kerbstorie.

Figure 2A Page 1: 5 shows the waterline of the reflective kerbstone which helps in installation process.

Figure 2.4 Page 1: 6 shows the reflective strip/banding & indicating its installation position.

Figure 2A Page 1: 7 shows the nuts and bolts/screws & their installation position during manufacturing process for easy maintenance after instahation.

Figure 2A Page 1: 8 shovs cur:e at ar angle between 12 to 15 degree or as approved by relevant authorities.

Figure 28 Page 1: is the overview of the design of straight/standard reflective kerbstone.

Figure 26 Page 1: 1 shows the surface level of the reflective kerbstone.

Figure 26 Page 1: 3 shows the height of the reflective kerbstone.

Figure 28 Page 1: 4 Shows width of the reflective kerbstone.

Figure 26 Page 1: 5 shows the waterline of the reflective kerbstone which helps in installation process.

Figure 28 Page 1: 6 shows the reflective strip/banding & indicating its installation position Figure 26 Page 1: 7 shows the nuts and bolts/screws & their installation position during manufacturing process for easy maintenance after installation.

Figure 3 Page 2: is the overview of the design of curved reflective kerbstone.

Figure 3 Page 2: 3 shows the height of the reflective kerbstone.

Figure 3 Page 2: 4 Shows width of the reflective kerbstone.

Figure 3 Page 2: 5 shows waterline of the reflective kerbstone which helps in installation process.

Figure 3 Page 2: 7 shows the nuts and bolts/screws & their installation position during manufacturing process for easy maintenance after installation.

Figure 3 Page 2: 8 shows the angle of the reflective kerbstone, normally 12 to 15 degree or as approved by relevant authorities.

Figure 3 Page 2: 10 shows width of the surface of reflective kerbstone.

Figure 3 Page 2: 11 shows the width of the angular curve.

Figure 3 Page 2: 12 shows proposed height and placement of reflective strip.

Figure 3 Page 2: 14 shows the length of the reflective kerbstone.

Figure 4 Page 2: is the overview of the design of straight reflective kerbstone.

Figure 4 Page 2: 3 shows the height of the reflective kerbstone.

Figure 4 Page 2: 4 Shows width of the reflective kerbstone.

Figure 4 Page 2: 5 shows waterline of the reflective kerbstone which helps in installation process.

Figure 4 Page 2: 7 shows the nuts and bolts/screws & their installation position during manufacturing process for easy maintenance after installation.

Figure 4 Page 2: 10 shows the width of surface of reflective kerbstone.

Figure 4 Page 2: 12 shows proposed height and placement/position of reflective strip.

Figure 4 Page 2: 14 shows the length of the reflective kerbstone.

FigureS Page 3: is the overview of the design of reflective kerbstone.

Figure 5 Page 3: 1 shows the surface level of the reflective kerbstone.

Figure 5 Page 3: 2 shows the curved shape of the reflective kerbstone, Figure 5 Page 3: 3 shows the height of the reflective kerbstone.

Figure 5 Page 3: 4 shows the width of the reflective kerbstone.

Figure 5 Page 3: 5 shows waterline of the reflective kerbstone which helps in installation process.

Figure 5 Page 3: 6 shows the reflective strip/banding & indicating its installation position (this figure 5 is for kerb near the exit or turning).

Figure 5 Page 3: 7 shows the nuts and bolts/screws & their installation position during manufacturing process for easy maintenance after installation.

Figure 5 Page 3: 8 shows curve at an angle between 12 to 15 degree or as approved by relevant authorities.

Figure 6 Page 3: is the overview of the design of Radius reflective kerbstone.

Figure 6 Page 3: 3 shows the height of the Radius reflective kerbstone.

Figure 6 Page 3: 4 shows the width and surface of the Radius reflective kerbstone.

Figure 6 Page 3: 5 shows waterline of the Radius reflective kerbstone which helps in installation process.

Figure 6 Page 3: 7 shows the nuts and bolts/screws & their installation position during manufacturing process for easy maintenance after installation.

Figure 6 Page 3: 12 shows height and placement of reflective strip.

Figure 6 Page 3: 15 shows another view of radius reflective kerbstone.

Figure 7 Page 4: is the overview of the design of Quadrant reflective kerbstone.

Figure 7 Page 4: 3 shows the height of Quadrant reflective kerbstone.

Figure 7 Page 4: 4 shows width approved by British Standards for Quadrant reflective kerbstone.

Figure 7 Page 4: 5 shows waterline of the reflective kerbstorie which helps in installation process.

Figure 7 Page 4: 7 shows the nuts and bolts/screws & their installation position during manufacturing process & for easy maintenance after installation.

Figure 7 Page 4: 12 shows height and placement of reflective strip.

Figure 7 Page 4: 16 shows another view of the Quadrant reflective kerbstone Figure JA Page 4: is the overview of the design of Eievation of Quadrant reflective kerbstone.

Figure 7A Page 4: Quadrant in these sizes have following profile: + Bullnosed type QBN, to match corresponding kerb type BN, or cl_it n_fl_._._.J 4-. .... flLJfl 4-._ -l-.-k I.-..-l-. ,-UD) UQ.

I Cit I?OLLCI CU tC *4J 41.) I IW.LI t4CI LI I.7frC I ti-J. I LI17.r *. 45° Splayed type QSP to match kerb types S. Standard Sizes Are: 1. JOSxl5Omm 2-305x225mm 3. 455x150mm 4. 455x225mm Figure 7A Page 4: 3 shows the two heights approved by British Standards for Quadrant reflective kerbstone.

Figure 7A Page 4: 4A shows one of the two the widths approved by British Standards of Quadrant reflective kerbstone.

Figure 7A Page 4: 4B shows second of the two widths approved by British Standards of Quadrant reflective kerbstone.

Figure 7A Page 4: Quadrant are available in 4 standard sizes as explained above.

S

Figure 8 Page 5: is the overview of the design of curved reflective kerbstone.

Figure 8 Page 5: 6 shows the reflective strip/banding as approved by relevant authorities (proposed sizes mentioned in Claim 2).

Figure 8 Page 5: 7 shows the nuts and bolts/screws & their installation position during manufacturing process & for easy maintenance after installation.

Figure 8 PageS: 17 shows the Polypropylene Sheet or alloy sheet or sheet made with any kind of metal or plastic or any such material approved by relevant authorities which is to be attached to kerb to affix retro reflective sheet or self adhesive retro reflective material.

Figure 9 Page 5: is the overview of the design of reflective kerbstone.

Figure 9 Page 5: 6 shows the reflective strip/banding as approved by relevant authorities (proposed sizes mentioned in Claim 2).

Figure 9 Page 5: 7 shows the nuts and bolts/screws & their installation position during manufacturing process & for easy maintenance after installation.

Figure 9 PageS: 17 shows the Polypropylene Sheet or alloy sheet or sheet made with any kind of metal or piastic or any such materiai approved by reievant authorities which is to be attached to kerb to affix retro reflective sheet or self adhesive retro reflective material.

Figure 9 Page 5: 18 shows the reflectors and its placement on surface of reflective kerb.