SOUND BARRIER PANEL AND GLARE SCREEN

Various implementations include a sound barrier panel including first and second polymeric foam portions, a rubber membrane, and a polyurea coating. The first and second polymeric foam portions each have a first surface, a second surface opposite and spaced apart from the first surface, a first end, a second end opposite and spaced apart from the first end, a top end, and a bottom end opposite and spaced apart from the top end. The second surface of the first polymeric foam portion abuts a first surface of the rubber membrane, and a second surface of the rubber membrane abuts the first surface of the second polymeric foam portion. The polyurea coating covers at least the first surface of the first polymeric foam portion and the second surface of the second polymeric foam portion.

BACKGROUND

Sound barrier walls are built along highways to reduce the noise produced by motor vehicles traveling on the highways. The sound barriers must meet specific standards based on the regulations set by local governments. These government standards can include noise deflection tests, impact tests, and flammability tests.

Currently, many sound barriers are manufactured using concrete sound barrier panels. These concrete panels are capable of meeting the above listed standards for highway sound barriers. However, due to their weight, concrete sound barrier panels require large construction equipment to lift and position the sound barrier panels, making installation of the concrete sound barrier panels difficult, time consuming, and costly. Thus, a need exists for a sound barrier panel that is light weight but capable of meeting the required government standards for highway sound barriers.

SUMMARY

The present devices and systems include improved sound barrier panels, sound barrier systems, glare screens, and glare screen systems. The sound barrier panels and systems are light weight but still have properties that allow the panels and systems to pass governmental noise deflection, impact, flammability, and wind tests.

Various implementations include a sound barrier panel. The sound barrier panel includes a first polymeric foam portion, a rubber membrane, a second polymeric foam portion, and a polyurea coating. The first polymeric foam portion has a first surface, a second surface opposite and spaced apart from the first surface, a first end, a second end opposite and spaced apart from the first end, a top end, and a bottom end opposite and spaced apart from the top end. The rubber membrane has a first surface and a second surface opposite and spaced apart from the first surface. The second surface of the first polymeric foam portion abuts the first surface of the rubber membrane. The second polymeric foam portion has a first surface and a second surface opposite and spaced apart from the first surface. The second surface of the rubber membrane abuts the first surface of the second polymeric foam portion. The polyurea coating covers at least the first surface of the first polymeric foam portion and the second surface of the second polymeric foam portion.

In some implementations, the sound barrier panel further includes at least one metal stud extending from the first end of the first polymeric foam portion to the second end of the first polymeric foam portion.

In some implementations, the polyurea coating covers the first polymeric foam portion, the rubber membrane, the second polymeric foam portion, and the at least one metal stud.

In some implementations, the at least one metal stud includes a first metal stud and a second metal stud. The first metal stud extends along the top end of the first polymeric foam portion, and the second metal stud extends along the bottom end of the first polymeric foam portion.

In some implementations, the at least one metal stud further includes a third metal stud and a fourth metal stud. The third metal stud extends along the first end of the first polymeric foam portion, and the fourth metal stud extends along the second end of the first polymeric foam portion.

In some implementations, the at least one metal stud is 14-gauge galvanized steel or thicker.

In some implementations, the at least one metal stud is couplable with another metal stud.

In some implementations, the at least one metal stud is couplable with another metal stud by a tongue and groove joint.

In some implementations, the first polymeric foam portion has a length of 20 feet from the first end to the second end.

In some implementations, the first polymeric foam portion and the second polymeric foam portion include 1-pound density expanded polystyrene.

In some implementations, the first polymeric foam portion and the second polymeric foam portion include from 1-pound density to 10-pound density expanded polystyrene. In some implementations, the first polymeric foam portion and the second polymeric foam portion include from 3-pound density to 5-pound density expanded polystyrene.

In some implementations, the rubber membrane has a thickness of ⅛ inch as measured from the first surface of the rubber membrane to the second surface of the rubber membrane.

In some implementations, the sound barrier panel has a weighted transmission loss of at least 20 dBA.

In some implementations, the polyurea coating has an ASTM E84 fire retardant rating of Class A (Class I).

In some implementations, the sound barrier panel passes the Missile Impact Test per Miami-Dade PA 201, the Positive Cyclic Load Test per Miami-Dade PA 203, and the Negative Cyclic Load Test per Miami-Dade PA 203.

Various other implementations include a sound barrier system. The sound barrier system includes a first sound barrier panel and a second sound barrier panel. Each of the first sound barrier panel and the second sound barrier panel includes a first polymeric foam portion, a rubber membrane, a second polymeric foam portion, a polyurea coating, and at least one metal stud. The first polymeric foam portion has a first surface, a second surface opposite and spaced apart from the first surface, a first end, and a second end opposite and spaced apart from the first end. The rubber membrane has a first surface and a second surface opposite and spaced apart from the first surface. The second surface of the first polymeric foam portion abuts the first surface of the rubber membrane. The second polymeric foam portion has a first surface and a second surface opposite and spaced apart from the first surface. The second surface of the rubber membrane abuts the first surface of the second polymeric foam portion. The polyurea coating covers at least the first surface of the first polymeric foam portion and the second surface of the second polymeric foam portion. The at least one metal stud extends from the first end of the first polymeric foam portion to the second end of the first polymeric foam portion. The at least one metal stud of the first sound barrier panel is coupled to the at least one metal stud of the second sound barrier panel.

In some implementations, the at least one metal stud of each of the first sound barrier panel and the second sound barrier panel includes a first metal stud and a second metal stud.

In some implementations, the polyurea coating covers the first polymeric foam portion, the rubber membrane, the second polymeric foam portion, and the at least one metal stud.

In some implementations, the first metal studs of the first and second sound barrier panels extend along the top ends of the first polymeric foam portions, respectively, and the second metal studs of the first and second sound barrier panels extend along the bottom ends of the first polymeric foam portions, respectively.

In some implementations, the at least one metal stud of each of the first and second sound barrier panels further includes a third metal stud and a fourth metal stud. The third metal studs extend along the first ends of the first polymeric foam portions of the first and second sound barrier panels, and the fourth metal studs extend along the second ends of the first polymeric foam portions of the first and second sound barrier panels.

In some implementations, the at least one metal stud is 14-gauge galvanized steel or thicker.

In some implementations, the at least one metal stud of the first sound barrier panel is coupled to the at least one metal stud of the second sound barrier panel by a tongue and groove joint.

In some implementations, the first polymeric foam portion has a length of 20 feet from the first end to the second end.

In some implementations, the first polymeric foam portion and the second polymeric foam portion include 1-pound density expanded polystyrene.

In some implementations, the first polymeric foam portion and the second polymeric foam portion include from 1-pound density to 10-pound density expanded polystyrene. In some implementations, the first polymeric foam portion and the second polymeric foam portion include from 3-pound density to 5-pound density expanded polystyrene.

In some implementations, the rubber membrane has a thickness of ⅛ inch as measured from the first surface of the rubber membrane to the second surface of the rubber membrane.

In some implementations, the sound barrier panel has a weighted transmission loss of at least 20 dBA.

In some implementations, the polyurea coating has an ASTM E84 fire retardant rating of Class A.

In some implementations, the first sound barrier panel and second sound barrier panel pass the Missile Impact Test per Miami-Dade PA 201, the Positive Cyclic Load Test per Miami-Dade PA 203, and the Negative Cyclic Load Test per Miami-Dade PA 203.

Various other implementations include a glare screen. The glare screen includes a screen polymeric foam portion, a polyurea coating, and at least one coupling bracket. The screen polymeric foam portion has a first surface, a second surface opposite and spaced apart from the first surface, a first end, a second end opposite and spaced apart from the first end, a top end, and a bottom end opposite and spaced apart from the top end. The polyurea coating covers at least the first and second surfaces of the screen polymeric foam portion. The at least one coupling bracket is for coupling the glare screen to a barrier. The at least one coupling bracket is embedded in the screen polymeric foam portion and extends from the bottom end of the screen polymeric foam portion.

In some implementations, the at least one coupling bracket includes a first coupling bracket and a second coupling bracket. The first coupling bracket is structured to be coupled to a first surface of a barrier, and the second coupling bracket is structured to be coupled to a second surface of a barrier.

In some implementations, the at least one coupling bracket includes a first coupling bracket, a second coupling bracket, a third coupling bracket, and a fourth coupling bracket. The first and third coupling brackets are structured to be coupled to a first surface of a barrier and the second and fourth coupling brackets are structured to be coupled to a second surface of a barrier.

In some implementations, the at least one coupling bracket includes a first coupling bracket, a second coupling bracket, a third coupling bracket, a fourth coupling bracket, a fifth coupling bracket, and a sixth coupling bracket. The first, third, and fifth coupling brackets are structured to be coupled to a first surface of a barrier and the second, fourth, and sixth coupling brackets are structured to be coupled to a second surface of a barrier.

In some implementations, the at least one coupling bracket defines at least one fastener opening.

In some implementations, the at least one coupling bracket includes a first bracket section, a second bracket section, and a third bracket section. The first bracket section is embedded in the screen polymeric foam portion, the second bracket section extends along the bottom end of the screen polymeric foam portion, and the third bracket portion extends away from the screen polymeric foam portion.

In some implementations, the screen polymeric foam portion includes a first screen polymeric foam portion and a second screen polymeric foam portion. The glare screen further includes a rubber membrane having a first surface and a second surface opposite and spaced apart from the first surface. The second surface of the first screen polymeric foam portion abuts the first surface of the rubber membrane, and the second surface of the rubber membrane abuts the first surface of the second screen polymeric foam portion.

In some implementations, the rubber membrane has a thickness of ⅛ inch as measured from the first surface of the rubber membrane to the second surface of the rubber membrane.

In some implementations, the screen polymeric foam portion includes 1-pound density expanded polystyrene.

In some implementations, the screen polymeric foam portion includes from 1-pound density to 10-pound density expanded polystyrene. In some implementations, the screen polymeric foam portion includes from 3-pound density to 5-pound density expanded polystyrene.

In some implementations, the polyurea coating has an ASTM E84 fire retardant rating of Class A.

In some implementations, one of the first end or the second end of the screen polymeric foam portion is couplable to the other of the second end or the first end of the screen polymeric foam portion of another glare screen by a tongue and groove joint.

In some implementations, one of the first end or the second end of the screen polymeric foam portion is couplable to the other of the second end or the first end of the screen polymeric foam portion of another glare screen by a lap joint.

Various other implementations include a glare screen system including a barrier and a glare screen as described above. The barrier has a first barrier surface and a second barrier surface opposite and spaced apart from the first barrier surface. The at least one coupling bracket is coupled to the first barrier surface or the second barrier surface.

In some implementations, the at least one coupling bracket includes a first coupling bracket and a second coupling bracket. The first coupling bracket is coupled to the first barrier surface, and the second coupling bracket is coupled to the second barrier surface.

In some implementations, the at least one coupling bracket includes a first coupling bracket, a second coupling bracket, a third coupling bracket, and a fourth coupling bracket. The first and third coupling brackets are structured to be coupled to a first surface of a barrier and the second and fourth coupling brackets are structured to be coupled to a second surface of a barrier.

In some implementations, the at least one coupling bracket includes a first coupling bracket, a second coupling bracket, a third coupling bracket, a fourth coupling bracket, a fifth coupling bracket, and a sixth coupling bracket. The first, third, and fifth coupling brackets are structured to be coupled to a first surface of a barrier and the second, fourth, and sixth coupling brackets are structured to be coupled to a second surface of a barrier.

In some implementations, the at least one coupling bracket defines at least one fastener opening.

In some implementations, the at least one coupling bracket includes a first bracket section, a second bracket section, and a third bracket section. The first bracket section is embedded in the screen polymeric foam portion, the second bracket section extends along the bottom end of the screen polymeric foam portion, and the third bracket portion extends away from the screen polymeric foam portion.

In some implementations, the screen polymeric foam portion includes a first screen polymeric foam portion and a second screen polymeric foam portion. The glare screen further includes a rubber membrane having a first surface and a second surface opposite and spaced apart from the first surface. The second surface of the first screen polymeric foam portion abuts the first surface of the rubber membrane and the second surface of the rubber membrane abuts the first surface of the second screen polymeric foam portion.

In some implementations, the rubber membrane has a thickness of ⅛ inch as measured from the first surface of the rubber membrane to the second surface of the rubber membrane.

In some implementations, the screen polymeric foam portion includes 1-pound density expanded polystyrene.

In some implementations, the screen polymeric foam portion includes from 1-pound density to 10-pound density expanded polystyrene. In some implementations, the screen polymeric foam portion includes from 3-pound density to 5-pound density expanded polystyrene.

In some implementations, the polyurea coating has an ASTM E84 fire retardant rating of Class A.

In some implementations, one of the first end or the second end of the screen polymeric foam portion is couplable to the other of the second end or the first end of the screen polymeric foam portion of another glare screen by a tongue and groove joint.

In some implementations, one of the first end or the second end of the screen polymeric foam portion is couplable to the other of the second end or the first end of the screen polymeric foam portion of another glare screen by a lap joint.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various implementations include a sound barrier panel. The sound barrier panel includes a first polymeric foam portion, a rubber membrane, a second polymeric foam portion, and a polyurea coating. The first polymeric foam portion has a first surface, a second surface opposite and spaced apart from the first surface, a first end, a second end opposite and spaced apart from the first end, a top end, and a bottom end opposite and spaced apart from the top end. The rubber membrane has a first surface and a second surface opposite and spaced apart from the first surface. The second surface of the first polymeric foam portion abuts the first surface of the rubber membrane. The second polymeric foam portion has a first surface and a second surface opposite and spaced apart from the first surface. The second surface of the rubber membrane abuts the first surface of the second polymeric foam portion. The polyurea coating covers at least the first surface of the first polymeric foam portion and the second surface of the second polymeric foam portion.

Various other implementations include sound barrier system. The sound barrier system includes a first sound barrier panel and a second sound barrier panel. Each of the first sound barrier panel and the second sound barrier panel include a first polymeric foam portion, a rubber membrane, a second polymeric foam portion, a polyurea coating, and at least one metal stud. The first polymeric foam portion has a first surface, a second surface opposite and spaced apart from the first surface, a first end, a second end opposite and spaced apart from the first end, a top end, and a bottom end opposite and spaced apart from the top end. The rubber membrane has a first surface and a second surface opposite and spaced apart from the first surface. The second surface of the first polymeric foam portion abuts the first surface of the rubber membrane. The second polymeric foam portion has a first surface and a second surface opposite and spaced apart from the first surface. The second surface of the rubber membrane abuts the first surface of the second polymeric foam portion. The polyurea coating covers at least the first surface of the first polymeric foam portion and the second surface of the second polymeric foam portion. The at least one metal stud extends from the first end of the first polymeric foam portion to the second end of the first polymeric foam portion. The at least one metal stud of the first sound barrier panel is coupled to the at least one metal stud of the second sound barrier panel.

Various other implementations include a glare screen. The glare screen includes a screen polymeric foam portion, a polyurea coating, and at least one coupling bracket. The screen polymeric foam portion has a first surface, a second surface opposite and spaced apart from the first surface, a first end, a second end opposite and spaced apart from the first end, a top end, and a bottom end opposite and spaced apart from the top end. The polyurea coating covers at least the first and second surfaces of the screen polymeric foam portion. The at least one coupling bracket is for coupling the glare screen to a barrier. The at least one coupling bracket is embedded in the screen polymeric foam portion and extends from the bottom end of the screen polymeric foam portion.

Various other implementations include a glare screen system including a barrier and a glare screen as described above. The barrier has a first barrier surface and a second barrier surface opposite and spaced apart from the first barrier surface. The at least one coupling bracket is coupled to the first barrier surface or the second barrier surface.

FIGS. 1 and 2show a sound barrier panel100. The sound barrier panel100includes a rubber membrane sandwiched between a first polymeric foam portion polymeric foam portion and a second polymeric foam portion, four metal studs each extending along either the top end, bottom end, and side ends of the sandwiched portions, and a polyurea coating covering the rubber membrane, the first polymeric foam portion, the second polymeric foam portion, and the metal studs. The sound barrier panel100is capable of deflecting sound and is durable enough to withstand sever weather. Two or more sound barrier panels100can be vertically stacked on each other to form a taller, sound barrier system.

The rubber membrane102of the sound barrier panel100is an effective sound deflecting barrier due to its high density. The rubber membrane102has a first end104and a second end106opposite and spaced apart from the first end104, and a top end108and a bottom end110opposite and spaced apart from the top end108. The rubber membrane102also has a first surface112and a second surface114opposite and spaced apart from the first surface112. The first surface112and second surface114of the rubber membrane102extend from the first end104of the rubber membrane102to the second end106of the rubber membrane102and from the top end108of the rubber membrane102to the bottom end110of the rubber membrane102. The rubber membrane102has a thickness of ⅛ inch as measured from the first surface112of the rubber membrane102to the second surface114of the rubber membrane102. Although the rubber membrane102is used for sound deflection in the sound barrier100shown inFIGS. 1 and 2, in other implementations, another sound deflecting material could be used instead of a rubber membrane, such as cork, dense glass, sheet metal, or any other material with a high enough density to deflect the desired level of noise for the particular environment in which the sound barrier panel is designed to be used.

The first and second polymeric foam portions116,130add thickness to the sound barrier panel100for structural support. The first polymeric foam portion116of the sound barrier panel100has a first end118and a second end120opposite and spaced apart from the first end118, and a top end122and a bottom end124opposite and spaced apart from the top end122. The first polymeric foam portion116also has a first surface126and a second surface opposite128and spaced apart from the first surface126. The first surface126and second surface128of the first polymeric foam portion116extend from the first end118of the first polymeric foam portion116to the second end120of the first polymeric foam portion116and from the top end122of the first polymeric foam portion116to the bottom end124of the first polymeric foam portion116. The first polymeric foam portion116shown inFIGS. 1 and 2is manufactured from 1-pound density expanded polystyrene because of the material's light weight, low cost, and ease of manufacturing. However, in other implementations, the first polymeric foam portion can be expanded polystyrene having any other density. In some implementations, the first polymeric foam portion has a density of 1-10 pounds. In some implementations, the first polymeric foam portion has a density of 3-5 pounds. In some implementations, the first polymeric foam portion is manufactured from urethane foam, polyurea foam, polyurethane foam, extruded polystyrene, or any other foam board or fiber board.

The second polymeric foam portion130of the sound barrier panel100has a first end132and a second end134opposite and spaced apart from the first end132, and a top end136and a bottom end138opposite and spaced apart from the top end136. The second polymeric foam portion130also has a first surface140and a second surface142opposite and spaced apart from the first surface140. The first surface140and second surface142of the second polymeric foam portion130extend from the first end132of the second polymeric foam portion130to the second end134of the second polymeric foam portion130and from the top end136of the second polymeric foam portion130to the bottom end138of the second polymeric foam portion130. The second polymeric foam portion130shown inFIGS. 1 and 2is manufactured from 1-pound density expanded polystyrene because of the material's light weight, low cost, and ease of manufacturing. However, in other implementations, the second polymeric foam portion can be expanded polystyrene having any other density. In some implementations, the second polymeric foam portion has a density of 1-10 pounds. In some implementations, the second polymeric foam portion has a density of 3-5 pounds. In some implementations, the second polymeric foam portion is manufactured from urethane foam, polyurea foam, polyurethane foam, extruded polystyrene, or any other foam board or fiber board.

The sound barrier panel100shown inFIGS. 1 and 2has a length of 20 feet as measured from the first end118of the first polymeric foam portion116to the second end120of the first polymeric foam portion116. The sound barrier panel100also has a height of 4 feet as measured from the top end108of the first polymeric foam portion116to the bottom end110of the first polymeric foam portion116. The sound barrier panel100further has a thickness of 6 inches as measured from the first surface126of the first polymeric foam portion116to the second surface142of the second polymeric foam portion130. However, in other implementations, the lengths, heights, and thicknesses are any other size based on the intended use of the sound barrier panel.

When assembled, the second surface114of the first polymeric foam portion116abuts the first surface112of the rubber membrane102, and the second surface114of the rubber membrane102abuts the first surface140of the second polymeric foam portion130.

The sound barrier panel100includes a first metal stud144, a second metal stud144′, a third metal stud144″, and fourth metal stud144′″. The four metal studs144,144′,144″,144′″ create a frame around the ends of the sound barrier panel100to add structural stability to the sound barrier panel100. Each of the four metal studs144,144′,144″,144′″ has a middle portion146,146′,146″,146′″, a first side portion156,156′,156″,156′″, and a second side portion166,166′,166″,166′″. Each of the middle portions146,146′,146″,146′″ has a first end148,148′,148″,148′″ and a second end150,150′,150″,150′″ opposite and spaced apart from the first end148,148′,148″,148′″, and an inner surface152,152′,152″,152′″ and an outer surface154,154′,154″,154′″ opposite and spaced apart from the inner surface152,152′,152″,152′″. Each of the first side portions156,156′,156″,156′″ has a first end148,148′,148″,148′″ and a second end160,160′,160″,160′″ opposite and spaced apart from the first end148,148′,148″,148′″, and an inner surface152,152′,152″,152′″ and an outer surface opposite154,154′,154″,154′″ and spaced apart from the inner surface152,152′,152″,152′″. Each of the second side portions166,166′,166″,166′″ has a first end168,168′,168″,168′″ and a second end170,170′,170″,170′″ opposite and spaced apart from the first end168,168′,168″,168′″, and an inner surface172,172′,172″,172′″ and an outer surface174,174′,174″,174′″ opposite and spaced apart from the inner surface172,172′,172″,172″. The first ends148,148′,148″,148′″ of the middle portions146,146′,146″,146′″ are coupled to the first ends148,148′,148″,148′″ of the first side portions156,156′,156″,156′″ such that the inner surfaces152,152′,152″,152′″ of the middle portions146,146′,146″,146′″ are disposed at a ninety degree angle to the inner surfaces152,152′,152″,152′″ of the first side portions156,156′,156″,156′″. The second ends of the middle portions146,146′,146″,146′″ are coupled to the first ends168,168′,168″,168′″ of the second side portions166,166′,166″,166′″ such that the inner surfaces152,152′,152″,152′″ of the middle portions146,146′,146″,146′ are disposed at a ninety degree angle to the inner surfaces172,172′,172″,172′ of the second side portions166,166′,166″,166′″. Thus, each of the four metal studs144,144′,144″,144′″ has a squared U-shape cross-section as viewed in a plain perpendicular to the inner surfaces152,152′,152″,152′ of each of the middle portion146,146′,146″,146′″ of each respective metal stud144,144′,144″,144′″. Each of the four metal studs144,144′,144″,144′ comprises 14-gauge galvanized steel, but in other implementations, the metal studs comprise any material and any thickness to make the sound barrier panel have the desired strength and flexibility characteristics for the environment in which the sound barrier panel is designed to be used.

The inner surface152of the middle portion146of the first metal stud144is disposed on the top ends108,122,136of the rubber membrane102, the first polymeric foam portion116, and the second polymeric foam portion130. The inner surface162of the first side portion156of the first metal stud144is disposed along the first surface126of the first polymeric foam portion116, and the inner surface172of the second side portion166of the first metal stud144is disposed along the second surface142of the second polymeric foam portion130. The first metal stud144extends from the first ends104,118,132of the rubber membrane102, the first polymeric foam portion116, and the second polymeric foam portion130to the second ends106,120,134of the rubber membrane102, the first polymeric foam portion116, and the second polymeric foam portion130. Two eyebolts188are coupled to the first metal stud144to aid in installation of the sound barrier panel100.

The inner surface152′ of the middle portion146′ of the second metal stud144′ is disposed on, and extends along, the bottom ends110,124,138of the rubber membrane102, the first polymeric foam portion116, and the second polymeric foam portion130. The inner surface162′ of the first side portion156′ of the second metal stud144′ is disposed along the first surface126of the first polymeric foam portion116′, and the inner surface172′ of the second side portion166′ of the second metal stud144′ is disposed along the second surface142of the second polymeric foam portion130. The second metal stud144′ extends from the first ends104,118,132of the rubber membrane102, the first polymeric foam portion116, and the second polymeric foam portion130to the second ends106,120,134of the rubber membrane102, the first polymeric foam portion116, and the second polymeric foam portion130.

The inner surface152″ of the middle portion146″ of the third metal stud144″ is disposed on, and extends along, the first ends104,118,132of the rubber membrane102, the first polymeric foam portion116, and the second polymeric foam portion130. The inner surface162″ of the first side portion156″ of the third metal stud144″ is disposed along the first surface126of the first polymeric foam portion116, and the inner surface172″ of the second side portion166″ of the third metal stud144″ is disposed along the second surface142of the second polymeric foam portion130. The third metal stud144′ extends from the top ends108,122,136of the rubber membrane102, the first polymeric foam portion116, and the second polymeric foam portion130to the bottom ends110,124,138of the rubber membrane102, the first polymeric foam portion116, and the second polymeric foam portion130.

The inner surface152′″ of the middle portion146′″ of the fourth metal stud144′″ is disposed on, and extends along, the second ends106,120,134of the rubber membrane102, the first polymeric foam portion116, and the second polymeric foam portion130. The inner surface162′″ of the first side portion156′″ of the fourth metal stud144′″ is disposed along the first surface126of the first polymeric foam portion116, and the inner surface172′″ of the second side portion166′″ of the fourth metal stud144′″ is disposed along the second surface142of the second polymeric foam portion130. The fourth metal stud144′″ extends from the top ends108,122,136of the rubber membrane102, the first polymeric foam portion116, and the second polymeric foam portion130to the bottom ends110,124,138of the rubber membrane102, the first polymeric foam portion116, and the second polymeric foam portion130.

The polyurea coating190covers the entirety of the exposed portions of the rubber membrane102, the first polymeric foam portion116, the second polymeric foam portion130, and the four metal studs144,144′,144″,144″. The polyurea coating190adds strength and fire resistance to the sound barrier panel100. The polyurea coating190shown inFIGS. 1 and 2has an ASTM E84 fire retardant rating of Class A. However, in other implementations, the polyurea coating has an ASTM E84 fire retardant rating of Class B or Class C.

The polyurea coating190inFIGS. 1 and 2is covered in an outer layer192comprising paint. The outer layer192is added to the sound barrier panel100for aesthetic purposes and to add ultraviolet resistance to the sound barrier panel100. In some implementations, the outer layer includes a logo or advertisement. In some implementations, the outer layer is an aggregate surface or an adhesive. The outer layer can comprise different surfaces and textures (for example, cement applications) depending on the aesthetic purpose or functional requirements. In some embodiments, the polyurea coating is a pure polyurea coating. A pure polyurea coating can be obtained as a result of reaction of diisocyanates and amines, resulting in urea linkages. In some embodiments, the polyurea coating is the Forever Bond polyurea coating (Forever Bond 55/125/10 and/or the Forever Bond 180 FR) available from Coatings International, LLC (Marietta, Ga.). Additional polyurea coatings are known in the art and are commercially available from various companies, for example, ArmorThane, VersaFlex, Arma Coatings, and Huntsman Corporation. In some embodiments, the polyurea coating can be a hybrid coating, comprising polyurea and, for example, polyurethane.

Fully assembled, the sound barrier panel100shown inFIGS. 1 and 2has a weighted transmission loss of 27 dBA and a Sound Transmission Class (“STC”) rating of STC-29 as calculated according to ASTM E90. The sound barrier panel100is strong enough to pass the Missile Impact Test per Miami-Dade PA 201, the Positive Cyclic Load Test per Miami-Dade PA 203, and the Negative Cyclic Load Test per Miami-Dade PA 203.

FIG. 3shows another implementation of a sound barrier panel300. The first metal stud344has a middle portion346, a first side portion356, and a second side portion366similar to the first metal stud144in the implementation shown inFIGS. 1 and 2, but the first side portion356and the second side portion366of the first metal stud344shown inFIG. 3are not coupled to the middle portion346. Rather, a first stepped portion376is coupled to the first end348of the middle portion346and the first end358of the first side portion356, and a second stepped portion382is coupled to the second end350of the middle portion346and the first end368of the second side portion366. The first stepped portion376and the second stepped portion382each have an inner surface378,384and an outer surface380,386opposite and spaced apart from the inner surface378,384.

The second metal stud344′ has a middle portion346′, a first side portion356′, and a second side portion366′ similar to the second metal stud144′ in the implementation shown inFIGS. 1 and 2, but the first side portion356′ and the second side portion366′ of the second metal stud344′ shown inFIG. 3are not coupled to the middle portion346′. Rather, a first stepped portion376′ is coupled to the first end348′ of the middle portion346′ and the first end358′ of the first side portion356′, and a second stepped portion382′ is coupled to the second end350′ of the middle portion346′ and the first end368′ of the second side portion366′. The first stepped portion376′ and the second stepped portion382′ each have an inner surface378′,384′ and an outer surface380′,386′ opposite and spaced apart from the inner surface378′,384′.

The top ends322,336and bottom ends324,338of the first polymeric foam portion316and the second polymeric foam portion330in the sound barrier panel300ofFIG. 3have been modified to accommodate the shape of the first metal stud344and second metal stud344′.

The outer surfaces364,380,386of the middle portion346, first stepped portion376, and second stepped portion382of the first metal stud344are sized to be disposed on the outside surfaces364′,380′,386′ of the middle portion346′, first stepped portion376′, and second stepped portion382′ of the second metal stud344′, respectively, to form a tongue in groove joint. The tongue in groove joint provides additional strength to connected sound barrier panels, as described below.

FIGS. 4 and 5show a side view and a perspective view, respectively, of a sound barrier system494including a first sound barrier panel400and a second sound barrier panel500. Both the first sound barrier panel400and the second sound barrier panel500are the same implementation of the sound barrier panel300shown inFIG. 3. The outer surfaces464,480,486of the middle portion446, the first stepped portion476, and the second stepped portion482of the first metal stud444of the first sound barrier panel400contact the outer surfaces564′,580′,586′ of the middle portion546′, the first stepped portion576′, and the second stepped portion582′ of the second metal stud544′ of the second sound barrier panel500, respectively.

Two I-beams496are vertically oriented and spaced apart from each other such that the first ends and second ends of each of the first sound barrier panel400and the second sound barrier panel500can be slidably disposed within the channels498in the I-beams496to form the sound barrier system494. By stacking additional sound barrier panels between the two I-beams496and onto the first and second sound barrier panels400,500and/or by including additional vertical I-beams496adjacent the existing two I-beams496and stacking additional sound barrier panels in the channels498of the I-beams496, sound barrier systems of various sizes and shapes can be constructed.

FIGS. 6-8show a glare screen600including a rubber membrane602, a first screen polymeric foam portion616, a second screen polymeric foam portion630, a polyurea coating690, a first coupling bracket644, and a second coupling bracket644′. The glare screen600can be coupled to a top end724of a barrier700to provide a visual barrier above the barrier. In some implementations, the glare screen600includes a rubber membrane602to deflect sound.

The rubber membrane602of the glare screen600is an effective sound deflecting barrier due to its high density. The rubber membrane602has a first end604and a second end606opposite and spaced apart from the first end604, and a top end608and a bottom end610opposite and spaced apart from the top end608. The rubber membrane602also has a first surface612and a second surface614opposite and spaced apart from the first surface612. The first surface612and second surface614of the rubber membrane602extend from the first end604of the rubber membrane602to the second end606of the rubber membrane602and from the top end608of the rubber membrane602to the bottom end610of the rubber membrane602. The rubber membrane602has a thickness of ⅛ inch as measured from the first surface612of the rubber membrane602to the second surface614of the rubber membrane602. InFIGS. 6-8, in other implementations another sound deflecting material could be used instead of a rubber membrane, such as cork, dense glass, sheet metal, or any other material with a high enough density to deflect the desired level of noise for the particular environment in which the glare screen is designed to be used. In some implementations, the glare screen does not include a rubber membrane.

The first and second screen polymeric foam portions616,630add thickness to the glare screen600for structural support. The first screen polymeric foam portion616of the glare screen600has a first end618and a second end620opposite and spaced apart from the first end618, and a top end622and a bottom end624opposite and spaced apart from the top end622. The first screen polymeric foam portion616also has a first surface626and a second surface opposite628and spaced apart from the first surface626. The first surface626and second surface628of the first screen polymeric foam portion616extend from the first end618of the first screen polymeric foam portion616to the second end620of the first screen polymeric foam portion616and from the top end622of the first screen polymeric foam portion616to the bottom end624of the first screen polymeric foam portion616. The first screen polymeric foam portion616shown inFIGS. 6-8is manufactured from 1-pound density expanded polystyrene because of the material's light weight, low cost, and ease of manufacturing. In some implementations, the first screen polymeric foam portion has a density of 1-10 pounds. In some implementations, the first screen polymeric foam portion has a density of 3-5 pounds. In some implementations, the first screen polymeric foam portion is manufactured from urethane foam, polyurea foam, polyurethane foam, extruded polystyrene, or any other foam board or fiber board.

The second screen polymeric foam portion630of the glare screen600has a first end632and a second end634opposite and spaced apart from the first end632, and a top end636and a bottom end638opposite and spaced apart from the top end636. The second screen polymeric foam portion630also has a first surface640and a second surface642opposite and spaced apart from the first surface640. The first surface640and second surface642of the second screen polymeric foam portion630extend from the first end632of the second screen polymeric foam portion630to the second end634of the second screen polymeric foam portion630and from the top end636of the second screen polymeric foam portion630to the bottom end638of the second screen polymeric foam portion630. The second screen polymeric foam portion630shown inFIGS. 6-8is manufactured from 1-pound density expanded polystyrene because of the material's light weight, low cost, and ease of manufacturing. In some implementations, the second screen polymeric foam portion has a density of 1-10 pounds. In some implementations, the second screen polymeric foam portion has a density of 3-5 pounds. In some implementations, the second screen polymeric foam portion is manufactured from urethane foam, polyurea foam, polyurethane foam, extruded polystyrene, or any other foam board or fiber board. In implementations in which the glare screen does not include a rubber membrane, the glare screen may only include a first screen polymeric foam portion without a second screen polymeric foam portion.

The polyurea coating690covers the entirety of the exposed portions of the rubber membrane602, the first screen polymeric foam portion616, and the second screen polymeric foam portion630. The polyurea coating690adds strength and fire resistance to the glare screen600. The polyurea coating690shown inFIGS. 6-8has an ASTM E84 fire retardant rating of Class A. However, in other implementations, the polyurea coating has an ASTM E84 fire retardant rating of Class B or Class C.

The polyurea coating690inFIGS. 6-8is covered in an outer layer692comprising paint. The outer layer692is added to the glare screen600for aesthetic purposes and to add ultraviolet resistance to the glare screen600. In some implementations, the outer layer includes a logo or advertisement. In some implementations, the outer layer is an aggregate surface or an adhesive. The outer layer can comprise different surfaces and textures (for example, cement applications) depending on the aesthetic purpose or functional requirements. In some embodiments, the polyurea coating is a pure polyurea coating. A pure polyurea coating can be obtained as a result of reaction of diisocyanates and amines, resulting in urea linkages. In some embodiments, the polyurea coating is the Forever Bond polyurea coating (Forever Bond 55/125/10 and/or the Forever Bond 180 FR) available from Coatings International, LLC (Marietta, Ga.). Additional polyurea coatings are known in the art and are commercially available from various companies, for example, ArmorThane, VersaFlex, Arma Coatings, and Huntsman Corporation. In some embodiments, the polyurea coating can be a hybrid coating, comprising polyurea and, for example, polyurethane.

The first coupling bracket644and second coupling bracket644′ each have a first bracket section646,646′, a second bracket section656,656′ coupled to the first bracket section646,646′, and a third bracket section666,666′ coupled to the second bracket section656,656′. The first bracket section646of the first coupling bracket644is embedded in the first screen polymeric foam portion616, and the first bracket section646′ of the second coupling bracket644′ is embedded in the second screen polymeric foam portion630. The second bracket section656of the first coupling bracket644extends along the bottom end624of the first screen polymeric foam portion616, and the second bracket section656′ of the second coupling bracket644′ extends along the bottom end638of the second screen polymeric foam portion630. The third bracket section666of the first coupling bracket644extends away from the first screen polymeric foam portion616, and the third bracket section666′ of the second coupling bracket644′ extends away from the second screen polymeric foam portion630. The third bracket sections666,666′ of the coupling brackets644,644′ each define a plurality of fastener openings648for receiving fasteners.

FIGS. 7 and 8show the glare screen600coupled to a barrier700. The bottom ends624,638of the first screen polymeric foam portion616and the second screen polymeric foam portion630are disposed adjacent the top end724of the barrier700. The second bracket sections656,656′ of the first coupling bracket644and the second coupling bracket644′ extend beyond the edges of the top end724of the barrier700such that the third sections666,666′ of the first coupling bracket644and the second coupling bracket644′ extend adjacent the first and second surfaces726,742of the barrier700. Fasteners are then inserted through the plurality of fastener openings648in the third sections666,666′ of the first and second coupling brackets644,644′ and driven into the first and second surfaces726,742of the barrier700to couple the glare screen600to the barrier700.

Although the glare screen600shown inFIGS. 6-8are shown with a first coupling bracket644and second coupling bracket644′, in other implementations, the glare screen includes only one coupling bracket or more than two coupling brackets.FIG. 9shows an implementation of a glare screen900including a first coupling bracket944, a second coupling bracket944′, a third coupling bracket1044, and a fourth coupling bracket1044′. Each of the first, second, third, and fourth coupling brackets944,944′,1044,1044′ are similar to the coupling brackets644,644′ in the implementation shown inFIGS. 6-8, but are shorter in length. The third sections966,1066of the first and third coupling brackets944,1044extend adjacent the first surface726of the barrier700, and the third sections966′,1066′ of the second and fourth coupling brackets944′,1044′ extend adjacent the first surface742of the barrier700. Fasteners are inserted through the plurality of fastener openings948,1048in the third sections966,966′,1066,1066′ of the first, second, third, and fourth coupling brackets944,944′,1044,1044′ and driven into the first and second surfaces726,742of the barrier700to couple the glare screen900to the barrier700.

FIG. 10shows an implementation of a glare screen1000including a first coupling bracket944, a second coupling bracket944′, a third coupling bracket1044, a fourth coupling bracket1044′, a fifth coupling bracket1144, and a sixth coupling bracket1144′. Each of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth coupling brackets944,944′,1044,1044′,1144,1144′ are similar to the coupling brackets644,644′ in the implementation shown inFIGS. 6-8, but are shorter in length. The third sections966,1066,1166of the first, third, and fifth coupling brackets944,1044,1144extend adjacent the first surface726of the barrier700, and the third sections966′,1066′,1166′ of the second, fourth, and sixth coupling brackets944′,1044′,1144′ extend adjacent the first surface742of the barrier700. Fasteners are inserted through the plurality of fastener openings948,1048,1148in the third sections966,966′,1066,1066′,1166,1166′ of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth coupling brackets944,944′,1044,1044′,1144,1144′ and driven into the first and second surfaces726,742of the barrier700to couple the glare screen1000to the barrier700.

FIGS. 11A-11Cshow an implementation of a glare screen1100similar to the glare screen600,900,1000shown inFIGS. 6-10. However, the glare screen1100shown inFIGS. 11A-11Cincludes tongue and groove features. Because the glare screen1100includes many of the same features as the glare screens600,900,1000shown inFIGS. 6-10, similar reference numbers to those used inFIGS. 6-10are used to designate similar features of the glare screen1100shown inFIGS. 11A-11C.

The glare screen1100includes a rubber membrane1102, a first screen polymeric foam portion1116, a second screen polymeric foam portion1130, a polyurea coating1190, a first coupling bracket1144, and a second coupling bracket1144′. The glare screen1100can be coupled to a top end724of a barrier700to provide a visual barrier above the barrier. In some implementations, the glare screen1100does not include a rubber membrane1102for deflecting sound.

The first and second screen polymeric foam portions1116,1130add thickness to the glare screen1100for structural support. The first screen polymeric foam portion1116of the glare screen1100has a first end1118and a second end1120opposite and spaced apart from the first end1118, and a top end1122and a bottom end1124opposite and spaced apart from the top end1122. The first screen polymeric foam portion1116also has a first surface1126and a second surface opposite1128and spaced apart from the first surface1126. The first surface1126and second surface1128of the first screen polymeric foam portion1116extend from the first end1118of the first screen polymeric foam portion1116to the second end1120of the first screen polymeric foam portion1116and from the top end1122of the first screen polymeric foam portion1116to the bottom end1124of the first screen polymeric foam portion1116. The first screen polymeric foam portion1116shown inFIGS. 11A-11Cis manufactured from 1-pound density expanded polystyrene because of the material's light weight, low cost, and ease of manufacturing. In some implementations, the first screen polymeric foam portion has a density of 1-10 pounds. In some implementations, the first screen polymeric foam portion has a density of 3-5 pounds. In some implementations, the first screen polymeric foam portion is manufactured from urethane foam, polyurea foam, polyurethane foam, extruded polystyrene, or any other foam board or fiber board.

The second screen polymeric foam portion1130of the glare screen1100has a first end1132and a second end1134opposite and spaced apart from the first end1132, and a top end1136and a bottom end1138opposite and spaced apart from the top end1136. The second screen polymeric foam portion1130also has a first surface1140and a second surface1142opposite and spaced apart from the first surface1140. The first surface1140and second surface1142of the second screen polymeric foam portion1130extend from the first end1132of the second screen polymeric foam portion1130to the second end1134of the second screen polymeric foam portion1130and from the top end1136of the second screen polymeric foam portion1130to the bottom end1138of the second screen polymeric foam portion1130. The second screen polymeric foam portion1130shown inFIGS. 11A-11Cis manufactured from 1-pound density expanded polystyrene because of the material's light weight, low cost, and ease of manufacturing. In some implementations, the second screen polymeric foam portion has a density of 1-10 pounds. In some implementations, the second screen polymeric foam portion has a density of 3-5 pounds. In some implementations, the second screen polymeric foam portion is manufactured from urethane foam, polyurea foam, polyurethane foam, extruded polystyrene, or any other foam board or fiber board. In implementations in which the glare screen does not include a rubber membrane, the glare screen may only include a first screen polymeric foam portion without a second screen polymeric foam portion.

The first ends1118,1132of the first polystyrene portion1116and second polystyrene portion1130and the second ends1120,1134of the first polystyrene portion1116and second polystyrene portion1130also include tongue and groove features. A tongue portion1170extends from the first ends1118,1132of the first polystyrene portion1116and second polystyrene portion1130, and a groove portion1180extends into the second ends1120,1134of the first polystyrene portion1116and second polystyrene portion1130.

The tongue portion1170includes a first side step1172adjacent the first surface1126of the first polystyrene portion1116, a second side step1172′ adjacent the second surface1142of the second polystyrene portion1130, a top step1174adjacent the top ends1122,1136of the first polystyrene portion1116and second polystyrene portion1130, and a bottom step1174′ adjacent the bottom ends1124,1138of the first polystyrene portion1116and second polystyrene portion1130. The tongue portion1170also includes a middle surface1176extending between the first side step1172, second side step1172′, top step1174, and bottom step1174′.

The groove portion1180includes a first side step1182adjacent the first surface1126of the first polystyrene portion1116, a second side step1182′ adjacent the second surface1142of the second polystyrene portion1130, a top step1184adjacent the top ends1122,1136of the first polystyrene portion1116and second polystyrene portion1130, and a bottom step1184′ adjacent the bottom ends1124,1138of the first polystyrene portion1116and second polystyrene portion1130. The tongue portion1180also includes a middle surface1186extending between the first side step1182, second side step1182′, top step1184, and bottom step1184′.

The first side step1172, second side step1172′, top step1174, bottom step1174′, and middle surface1176of the tongue portion1170of one glare screen1100are sized to be disposed on the first side step1182, second side step1182′, top step1184, bottom step1184′, and middle surface1186of the groove portion1180of another glare screen1100. Thus, the tongue portion1170extending from the first ends1118,1132of the first polystyrene portion1116and second polystyrene portion1130of one glare screen1100is disposed within the groove portion1180extending into the second ends1120,1134of the first polystyrene portion1116and second polystyrene portion1130of the other glare screen1100such that the ends of the glare screens1100are mechanically coupled together. The tongue in groove joint formed by the tongue portion1170and groove portion1180provides additional strength to connected the glare screens when mounted along the tops of the sound barriers described herein.

FIGS. 12A-12Cshow an implementation of a glare screen1200similar to the glare screen1100shown inFIGS. 11A-11C. However, the glare screen1200shown inFIGS. 12A-12Cincludes lap joint features. Because the glare screen1200includes many of the same features as the glare screen1100shown inFIGS. 11A-11C, similar reference numbers to those used inFIGS. 11A-11Care used to designate similar features of the glare screen1200shown inFIGS. 12A-12C.

The glare screen1200includes a rubber membrane1202, a first screen polymeric foam portion1216, a second screen polymeric foam portion1230, a polyurea coating1290, a first coupling bracket1244, and a second coupling bracket1244′. The glare screen1200can be coupled to a top end724of a barrier700to provide a visual barrier above the barrier. In some implementations, the glare screen1200does not include a rubber membrane1202for deflecting sound.

The first and second screen polymeric foam portions1216,1230add thickness to the glare screen1200for structural support. The first screen polymeric foam portion1216of the glare screen1200has a first end1218and a second end1220opposite and spaced apart from the first end1218, and a top end1222and a bottom end1224opposite and spaced apart from the top end1222. The first screen polymeric foam portion1216also has a first surface1226and a second surface opposite1228and spaced apart from the first surface1226. The first surface1226and second surface1228of the first screen polymeric foam portion1216extend from the first end1218of the first screen polymeric foam portion1216to the second end1220of the first screen polymeric foam portion1216and from the top end1222of the first screen polymeric foam portion1216to the bottom end1224of the first screen polymeric foam portion1216. The first screen polymeric foam portion1216shown inFIGS. 12A-12Cis manufactured from 1-pound density expanded polystyrene because of the material's light weight, low cost, and ease of manufacturing. In some implementations, the first screen polymeric foam portion has a density of 1-10 pounds. In some implementations, the first screen polymeric foam portion has a density of 3-5 pounds. In some implementations, the first screen polymeric foam portion is manufactured from urethane foam, polyurea foam, polyurethane foam, extruded polystyrene, or any other foam board or fiber board.

The second screen polymeric foam portion1230of the glare screen1200has a first end1232and a second end1234opposite and spaced apart from the first end1232, and a top end1236and a bottom end1238opposite and spaced apart from the top end1236. The second screen polymeric foam portion1230also has a first surface1240and a second surface1242opposite and spaced apart from the first surface1240. The first surface1240and second surface1242of the second screen polymeric foam portion1230extend from the first end1232of the second screen polymeric foam portion1230to the second end1234of the second screen polymeric foam portion1230and from the top end1236of the second screen polymeric foam portion1230to the bottom end1238of the second screen polymeric foam portion1230. The second screen polymeric foam portion1230shown inFIGS. 12A-12Cis manufactured from 1-pound density expanded polystyrene because of the material's light weight, low cost, and ease of manufacturing. In some implementations, the second screen polymeric foam portion has a density of 1-10 pounds. In some implementations, the second screen polymeric foam portion has a density of 3-5 pounds. In some implementations, the second screen polymeric foam portion is manufactured from urethane foam, polyurea foam, polyurethane foam, extruded polystyrene, or any other foam board or fiber board. In implementations in which the glare screen does not include a rubber membrane, the glare screen may only include a first screen polymeric foam portion without a second screen polymeric foam portion.

The first end1232of the second polystyrene portion1230and the second end1220of the first polystyrene portion1216also include lap joint features. A first lap joint portion1270extends from the first end1232of the second polystyrene portion1230, and a second lap joint portion1280extends from the second end1220of the first polystyrene portion1216.

The first lap joint portion1270includes a first side step1272adjacent the first surface1240of the second polystyrene portion1230, a second side step1272′ adjacent the second surface1242of the second polystyrene portion1230, a top step1274adjacent the top end1236of the second polystyrene portion1230, and a bottom step1274′ adjacent the bottom end1238of the second polystyrene portion1230. The first lap joint portion1270also includes a middle surface1276extending between the first side step1272, second side step1272′, top step1274, and bottom step1274′.

The second lap joint portion1280includes a first side step1282adjacent the first surface1226of the first polystyrene portion1216, a second side step1282′ adjacent the second surface1228of the first polystyrene portion1216, a top step1284adjacent the top end1222of the first polystyrene portion1216, and a bottom step1284′ adjacent the bottom end1224of the first polystyrene portion1216. The second lap joint portion1280also includes a middle surface1286extending between the first side step1282, second side step1282′, top step1284, and bottom step1284′.

The first side step1272of the first lap joint portion1270of one glare screen1200are sized to be disposed on the second side step1282′ of the second lap joint portion1280of another glare screen1200. Thus, the first lap joint portion1270extending from the first end1232of the second polystyrene portion1230of one glare screen1200is disposed adjacent the second lap joint portion1280extending from the second end1220of the second polystyrene portion1230of the other glare screen1200such that the ends of the glare screens1200are mechanically coupled together. The lap joint formed by the first lap joint portion1270and second lap joint portion1280provides additional strength to connected the glare screens when mounted along the tops of the sound barriers described herein.

A number of example implementations are provided herein. However, it is understood that various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure herein. As used in the specification, and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The term “comprising” and variations thereof as used herein is used synonymously with the term “including” and variations thereof and are open, non-limiting terms. Although the terms “comprising” and “including” have been used herein to describe various implementations, the terms “consisting essentially of” and “consisting of” can be used in place of “comprising” and “including” to provide for more specific implementations and are also disclosed.