Patent ID: 7090428
Filing Date: 2006-08-15
Classification: E01F

Abstract:
1. A protector for the vertical support posts of a safety rail barrier for vehicles, the safety rail barrier comprising a stamped sheet rail supported on a plurality of metallic channel-shaped support posts fixed into the ground, the posts optionally having a double-“T”- or “U”-shaped cross-section wherein the safety rail is supported above the ground with a separation between the lower edge of the rail and the ground exposing a portion of the vertical post to possible ground-sliding contact by an accident victim wherein the protector comprises an integral body having an extruded outer profile configured to surround a respective support post except for a vertically open section wherein the integral body has a generally U-shaped internal configuration permitting the integral body to conform with and attach to the support post wherein the support post can be received through the open section and into the internal U-shaped configuration permitting assembly and placement of the protector around the support post and wherein the integral body has multiple internal partitions defining cells, the cells providing a compressible internal structure capable of absorbing shock in the event of impact by an accident victim.