Patent ID: 6371532
Filing Date: 2002-04-16
Classification: B60B,B60T

Abstract:
A device for distributing a traction enhancing material to a portion of road surface generally forward of one or more tires of a moving vehicle, the device comprising:an air duct attached to the vehicle, wherein the air duct defines an interior passageway, the air duct having: a scoop for receiving air incident on the moving vehicle; a nozzle for directing the air to the portion of road surface; and one or more elbows intermediate the scoop and nozzle, the elbow providing a smooth transition for air traveling from the scoop to the nozzle; a storage hopper adapted to store a volume of traction enhancing material wherein the hopper has an outlet channel; a valve assembly for selectively opening and closing an aperture defined by an intersection of the outlet channel and the air duct, wherein the valve assembly permits movement of the traction enhancing material from the hopper into the air duct where it becomes entrained with the air; and a control system for selectively activating the valve assembly in response to one or more control inputs.