Patent ID: 7237591
Filing Date: 2007-07-03
Classification: E01F

Abstract:
1. A barrier system that may be subject to an impact, the barrier system comprising: a first support member; a first take-up member; a second support member laterally spaced apart from the first support member such that a horizontal gap exists between the first support member and the second support member; a flexible barrier adapted to receive the impact, the flexible barrier includes a proximal end attached to the first take-up member and a distal end that can be releasably coupled to the second support member, wherein the flexible barrier can selectively retract onto the first take-up member and extend out in a direction toward the second support member; and incremental stopping means that provide a plurality of discrete, spaced-apart stopping points that limit an extent to which the flexible barrier can extend in the direction toward the second support member, the incremental stopping means being coupled to the flexible barrier and the first support member such that more of the impact can be reacted by the first support member than by the first take-up member.