APPLICATION FOR LETTRES PATENT

A new and useful improvement entitled "HIGHWAY MEDIAN BARRIER WITH GUARD SHIELD SUBASSEMBLY"

CROSS-REFERENCE TO ARELATED APPLICATION

This application is a Continuation-In-Part of United States Patent Application Serial Number 11/766,083 filed June 20, 2007; which is a Continuation-ln-Part of United States Patent Application Serial Number ] 1/530,647 filed September 11, 2006, which is a Continuation-In- Part of United States Patent Application Serial Number 10/978,880 filed June 29, 2004. The legal benefit and priority of these previously filed applications is expressly claimed, all of which are hereby incorporated by this application in their entireties.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

All patents, patent applications and publications cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety in order to more fully describe the state of the arts as known to those skilled therein as of the date of the invention described herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is concerned generally with penetration-resistant shield assembly fabrications (known here throughout as a non-limiting guard shield assembly), constructions and assemblies useful for the protection of living human and animal subjects from high velocity projectiles and explosion fragments in both civilian and military combat situations; and is directed particularly to highway median barrier assemblies having a guard shield comprised of configured and dimensioned plates which have been prepared as penetration-resistant laminated constructs composed of asymmetric composite materials and which are able to protect and defend living subjects from accidental traumatic injury and/or death.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

It is an unfortunate and undisputed fact today that, over the course and duration of even an average human lifetime, one encounters many threatening situations and perilous circumstances which are potentially injurious, if not actually life endangering. For example, the perilous and frequently tragic danger to human life and limb caused by the exploding charges, bombs and other detonated devices of terrorist attacks; the dangers and vulnerabilities of law enforcement or military personnel in crowd control situations; and the always-present dangers and often imminent vulnerabilities to the bodies and lives of soldiers, sailors, and airmen caused by modern weaponry and ordinance during training exercises or in actual combat situations.

Clearly however, the degree of jeopardy to the body and life of a living human or animal subject or user will vary in severity and degree with each of these commonly occurring circumstances and risk categories. Also, the precise nature of the threat and the time duration for the risk of injury encountered within each of these different situations is disparate and markedly diverse.

Nevertheless, what is uniformly shared among all these unpredictable conditions and uncertain predicaments is the very real danger to life and limb caused by the penetration and subsequent shattering of solid objects and/or the direct physical impact of flying items or high velocity projectiles, regardless of how they came to be moving entities traveling at speed. Thus, there is a mutually shared need for living beings to avoid the risk of injury and death in all of these hazardous situations and/or high risk occurrences, as well as a commonly held desire to protect one's person and well-being against the potentially serious injurious effects caused by physical contact with solid objects, shattered fragments, and moving projectiles traveling at even moderate speeds.

Guard Shields:

Some of the solutions to these problems have included various transparent ballistic shields or solid shields with limited viewing areas. For transparent shields, the heavy weight of a transparent ballistic shield that can provide sufficient protection for the broad type and increasing lethality of modern ballistics makes hand-held shields impractical . Similarly, the use of solid shields dangerously restricts the user's ability to view the hostile environment. For both these types of shields, these barriers typically also leave a portion of the users body dangerously exposed.

Mobile barriers that roll on the ground have been another attempted type of solution to the inherent problems. For example, United States Patent Numbers 6,907,811 and 6,622,607 exemplify and illustrate mobile bullet resistant barriers. These proposed solutions are problematic, however, in both instances. The barriers as described in either patent are not designed to accommodate the vertical mobility issues associated with the weight of modern ballistic plates, nor are they designed to accommodate the need for rapid and frequent reconfiguration and mobile vertical deployment and plate shield maneuvering. Furthermore, neither allows for easy barrier assembly and disassembly in the field. Therefore, these patents teach only the use of preassembled barriers, and allow the user no capability to maintain the barrier in the field, should a portion of the barrier become disabled. Here again, these preassembled barriers are difficult to maneuver, transport and store.

Highway Median Barriers:

A highway median barrier today is the tapered concrete barrier that is typically used on many narrow highway medians to prevent vehicle crossovers into oncoming traffic. Although it

is not clear exactly when or where the first concrete median barriers were made, concrete highway median barriers certainly existed and were used in the mid-1940s on US Highway 99, on the descent from the Tehachapi Mountains in the central valley south of Bakersfield, California. This first generation of concrete highway median barriers was developed (a) to minimize the number of out-of-control trucks penetrating the previously-existing barriers; and (b) to eliminate the need for costly and dangerous median barrier maintenance in high-accident locations with narrow medians. These concerns that are as valid today as they were 60 years ago [Transportation Research Board, National Research Council, NCHRP Synthesis 244, "Guardrail and Median Barrier Crashworthiness", 1997, Chapter 5], ft is believed that the first concrete median barrier used in New Jersey was installed in 1955; and as it first appeared, it was only 18 inches tall. In effect, the barrier looked like a low vertical wall with a curb on each side. Once deployed for used, many operational problems were observed. Thus, over time, the overall shape was changed; and the height was initially increased to 24 inches, and then finally to 32 inches in 1959.

The presently well known and commonly seen highway barrier shape came into being at that time. In essence, going upward from the highway surface, the first 2 inches of barrier rises vertically from the pavement; the next 10 inches of barrier rises at a 55-degree angle; and the remainder of the barrier height rises at an 84-degree angle (as measured from horizontal).

It is interested to note that New Jersey did not use crash-testing of cars to develop the median barrier's shape. Instead, the New Jersey state highway department observed the accident results of its barrier installations; and via these accident statistics, evolved the shape of the barrier to what it is today. Both New Jersey and California continued experimenting with highway median barrier shapes in the early 1960s; and the New Jersey barrier form was widely

adopted by California, they installed 132 miles median barriers by 1972 and 680 miles of median barriers by 1988. The median barrier's use has expanded to and been adopted by nearly every state since then.

It is also of some value to recognize that there are in fact not less than six different concrete median barrier designs, although the New Jersey barrier is the most-used design. These different barrier shapes are commonly used on single-faced roadside barriers, as bridge parapets, as retaining walls in earth-fill sections; and as solid barriers against rock cuts and slides.

Some of the barrier styles and formats differences are also quite interesting: The Ontario tall-wall barrier has the same side slopes as the New Jersey barrier, but it is 42 inches high. The F-shape barrier is similar to the New Jersey barrier, but the bottom section is lower and the slope angle is a bit flatter.

The Constant-slope barrier is 42 inches high and the sides have a single slope of 79 degrees. The Constant-slope barrier is the latest concept of a highway median barrier and was developed using crash-testing. About a mile of this barrier style has been installed on Interstate Route 95 in Virginia, just north of the 1-295 interchange north of Richmond.

Ih comparison, the GM barrier is now considered obsolete. General Motors developed the GM barrier in conjunction with the Texas Transportation Institute in the early 1970s. It looks similar to the New Jersey barrier, but is fatter, and the slope breakpoint is about 3 inches higher. The GM barrier shape was developed by crash testing at a time when cars were very large. The New Jersey barrier has a lower slope breakpoint, and it is compatible with the smaller sized cars that were produced beginning about 1980 or so.

The popularity of the New Jersey barrier style and the basic reason for the prevalent New Jersey barrier profile - is to redirect a vehicle that hits it. When the moving vehicle strikes the New Jersey barrier shape, the vehicle's wheels and sheet metal on the impacting side will ride upward to prevent vehicle rollover. Cars, trucks and busses alike are all redirected upon impact. Also, the Jersey Barrier concrete profile is very heavy, weighing nearly 600 lbs. per linear foot of barrier; and it is often cast-in-place or slip-formed onto a concrete footer with steel dowel anchors. Because of this weight and placement, a tractor-trailer impacting the New Jersey barrier at a lS-degree angle at 60mph will be successfully redirected upward in direction by the barrier. The problem, however, is that the total height of the New Jersey barrier is only 32 inches in all. Thus, as has been repeatedly observed in highway accidents, if the force of the redirected uplift for the vehicle is strong enough, the uplifted moving vehicle will sometimes cross over the top of the concrete barrier itself and actually fly into the oncoming traffic moving in the opposite direction.

Furthermore, to increase the height of the barrier or alter its current profile is economically unfeasible. To make the current shape and 32 inch height for the New Jersey barrier, the usual cost per linear foot is presently two to three times the cost of a steel guardrail median barrier. Thus, the idea of making a higher concrete barrier with a reduced ability of the driver to see the oncoming traffic moving in the opposite direction has found no support whatever.

Overview

It is therefore apparent that the present highway median barrier art has the shortcoming of not providing enough protection to prevent out-of-control moving vehicles from penetrating and

crossing over the presently existing barriers into oncoming traffic. Therefore, there is a clear and current need for an improved highway median barrier having a guard shield assembly that addresses and overcomes these shortcomings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention addresses the aforementioned shortcomings, and benefits the user by utilizing fabricated penetration-resistant plates which can be employed as guard shields in highway median barrier assemblies, which capitalize on both the plate's protective and configurable features and also upon the mobility and maneuverability of the guard shield assembly configurations. These penetration-resistant and transparent plates are described in great detail infra, as is their use in the multiple highway median barrier assembly embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of illustration and with reference to the accompanying example drawings in which:

Fig. 1 is an illustration of one embodiment of a highway median barrier having a guard shield comprising a plurality of secured plates; and

Fϊg. 2 is an illustration of the embodiment of Fig. 1 where a partially assembled guard shield is shown demonstrating the manner in which a plurality of individual plates relate and may be assembled, including one example of raising and lowering the individual plates.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

I. Overall Scope Of The Present Invention

The present invention is an uniquely improved highway median barrier assembly whose structures, constructions, and array formats are capable of protecting living subjects traveling in cars, trucks and buses from a range and variety of moving vehicles and flying objects which typically differ in size, shape and mass; can travel at moderate to high rates of speed; and often cause serious injury or death as a consequence of physical impact. More specifically, the present invention relates to protecting living human and animal subjects who travel on highways in cars, trucks and buses through the use of three-dimensional designed highway median barriers which use transparent or translucent penetration-resistant plates as a joined upper protective panel and height-extending section of the barrier's structure and profile. These purposefully designed highway median barrier assemblies will protect living subjects from rapidly moving vehicles traveling in the opposite direction, from flying projectiles, and from exploding fragments as they move along our roads and highways.

More specifically, the present invention relates to protecting living subjects through the use of guard shield transparent or translucent panel sections mounted upon a preformed median barrier which have been manufactured in advance as purposely formulated laminated composite plates. The formulated laminated composite plates serving as the guard shield panels comprise multiple layers of asymmetric composite materials joined in overlay series which are then configured, sized, and optionally contoured to pre-chosen specifications for use as penetration- resistant plates. The guard shield panel subassembly further comprises a support frame and one or more securing elements or means for holding and securing the frame relative to the top of the solid median barrier itself.

White the present invention is expected and intended to appear in multiple embodiments and in different median barrier formats, a preferred example 5 and embodiment s of the invention will be described in detail hereinafter, albeit with the clear understanding that the particulars of the embodiment s are only illustrative and representative of the many different formats and applicability for the present invention; and that the true breadth of the invention is not limited in form nor restricted in scope to the exemplary embodiment β provided herein.

Definitions, Titles & Terminology:

To provide greater clarity and ease of comprehension, as well as to avoid ambiguities in wording and a confusion of nomenclature, the following titles, terms and definitions are provided. As concerns the description and details of the present invention, the following terms, definitions, and meanings will be employed routinely and consistently.

The term "Guard Shield Subassembly" as used herein refers to a protective panel, sheet, section, or substantially planar format comprising one or more penetration-resistant plates and structural frame and securing elements to hold and support said plates. The prepared in advance plates may be used as a single layer; or comprise a substrate having more then one layer, each layer being accommodated for in the construction of the subassembly frame in a manner that the frame structure can hold, support and secure multiple layers of plates. Thus, the plates of the substrate may be bolted one on top of the other, or be held together by an adhesive, or be positioned and supported by sliding multiple plates into a multiple groove inner frame configuration, or be annealed in other ways available to those of ordinary skill in the art. The guard shield subassembly may further comprise any number of securing elements or means which allow for the plate(s) and the supporting frame to be positioned, held, supported and

secured to the top of a pre-existing highway median barrier having its own particular dimensions, overall shape, and cross-sectional profile.

The terms "Composite and composite material" as used herein refers to a formulated composition or prepared substance composed of different chemical constituents which are combined or blended together to form a single synthetic compound having certain physical attributes and/or chemical properties.

The term "Layer" as used herein refers to a planar sheet, film, fabric, or covering of matter formed using only one formulated composition or individual substance.

The term "Substrate" as used herein refers to a single bed, stage or tier of matter formed using two or more distinct layers of matter having differently formulated compositions and different substances in series or sequential sequence.

The terms "Stratum and/or strata" as used herein refers to a more general title and common name for any plane, coating or ply of material which exists and can be identified as being either a layer or a substrate.

The terms "Stack, stack of matter, and/or stacked material" as used herein refers to a plurality of different layers, or a plurality of different composed substrates, or a plurality of different layers and substrates joined together in combination as a single aggregate.

The terms "Laminate and laminated construct" as used herein refers to at least one stack and usually multiple discrete stacks of matter joined together in sequence, which form a unified entity and single article of manufacture.

The term "Plate" as used herein refers to a pane, panel or slab of determinable dimensions, configuration, volume, and mass which is prepared and exists as a laminated construct formed as multiple layers of asymmetric composite materials. The plates may be flat

surfaced to be deployed in an appropriate frame, or be rounder on the sides and top, so long as the supporting framework can accommodate the alternative plate shapes. Examples of plate capacity to resist high velocity projectile penetration can be found throughout the present specification, including Table 1 and Experimental Examples 1-3, infra.

The terms "Asymmetric and asymmetry" as used herein refers to a physical property and dimensional attribute of matter which describes the individual thickness (or girth) for either a layer, or a substrate, or a stack of matter which may exist as part of the laminated composite, and where the thickness of one specific material layer, substrate, or stack within the laminate composite varies, is non-uniform, or is different from other individual layers, substrates, or stacks present in the composite as a whole.

The terms "Penetration-resistance (and of being penetration-resistant)" as used herein refers to the physical property and attribute of a material to withstanding being pierced, split or fragmented and to prevent being penetrated by the impact force of a moving object traveling at a measurable rate of speed.

The term "High velocity" as used herein refers to a Projectile with a rate of speed in the range from approximately 1500 to 9000 (or more) feet per second (fps).

The terms "Explosion fragments" as used herein refers to any type of high velocity projectiles whose speed is generated by an explosion or an explosive force.

The term "Opaque" as used herein refers to a material which is totally absorbent of visible light rays of a specified wavelength and thus fails to allow visibility when viewing through the material from one side to the other.

The term "Transparent" as used herein refers to a material which allows the visible light rays of a specified wavelength to pass without substantial absorption and thus allows visibility

when viewing through the material from one side to the other.

The term "Translucent" as used herein refers to a material which is capable of transmitting light, but through which no image or object can be seen.

The terms "Raising and lowering element" or means, as used herein refers to one or more elements capable of moving an object or objects, in multiple directions relative to another object or other obj ects. Typical raising and lowering elements include but are not limited to hydraulic or worm drive jacks that are used to raise, lower and support items such as the tongues of boat trailers. Some examples of appropriate raising and lowering elements are jacks manufactured by Fulton Performance Products of Mosinee, WI, USA and those offered for sale by Michigan Truck Spring of Saginaw, MI, USA. Examples of appropriate hydraulic raising and lowering elements are hydraulic jacks and hydraulic pump and cylinder assemblies offered for sale by Enerpac of Milwaukee, WI and those marketed under the Simplex® brand by Templeton, Kenly and Company of Broadview, IL. Other examples of raising and lowering elements include but are not limited to hydraulic pistons, motors, gears, chains, wheels, pulleys or other methods of transferring a force.

II. The Nature And Kinds Of The Asymmetrical Composite Materials Used In Making

The Laminated Constructs

A. The Laminated Constructs As Tangible Workpieces It is critical and essential to recognize and appreciate the nature and dimensional requirement for the asymmetrical composite materials used in the making of the laminated constructs - which are subsequently employed as tangible workpieces and component parts in the making of the assemblies of the present invention. As defined above, the characteristic of

"asymmetry" refers to the thickness dimension of a composite material, a size dimension which exists and is part of the laminated construct organization. Asymmetry is an essential physical requirement and unique feature which identifies and describes the individual differences in thickness (or girth) for either a layer or a substrate composed of a particular composite material, wherein the thickness of that composite material in a discrete one stack of the laminate construct varies, or is inconsistent, or is measurably different from the thickness(es) of that same composite material in any other individual stack(s) also then present within and forming a component part of the laminated construct as a single unitary article.

The use of asymmetric intermediate materials is also expected and envisioned with the use of different substrate materials, with one or more distinct layers situated as a stratum. Examples of such stratum uses are: employing glasses of different types; utilizing a variety of different polycarbonates; using alternative formulations of steel and other metallic alloys; incorporating refractory ceramics of varying formulations; and applying Kevlar, S Glass steel meshes, and other previously manufactured synthetic compositions.

As a simple illustrative example, if a first layer formed of a particular composite material has a thickness dimension of 1.5 mm, then at least one of the subsequent layers or strata using or applying that same composite material must be quantitatively different in thickness (or girth) from the 1.5 mm thickness dimension employed by the first layer. Thus, layers or strata that are 1.3 mm, 1.4 mm, 1.6 mm, and the like (i.e., not 1.5 mm in size) are acceptable as asymmetric examples. In addition, a single composite material may be employed within a series of different asymmetric stacks; which, in the alternative, may be present as a plurality of only asymmetric layers, or exist as a solid mixture of asymmetric and symmetric layers/strata in combination.

As a simple illustrative example therefore, if the construct of choice is a laminated solid

article that comprises a plurality of separately positioned and distinguishable single layers, all of which are identically composed of the same composite material, then each of the individually positioned layers must be asymmetric, or be different, in its thickness dimension. Thus each distinct and distinguishable layer formed of the same substance constitutes an individual stratum which differs from all the others by its thickness (or girth) dimension. In this manner, each of the individual layers, albeit formed of the same composite material, has a singular thickness which differs from the others; and each layer (or stratum) is positioned one on top of the other as a series of overlays such that the totality of multiple asymmetric layers in combination thereby forms a single unitary stack. Then, by repeating this process and maintaining the asymmetry of thickness requirement for each discrete stack, a plurality of (i.e., two or more) different asymmetrical stacks can be prepared; and each of these individually prepared stacks can then be joined together in sequential series to form a fused and consolidated laminated construct.

It will be noted that the joining of multiple individual asymmetrical stacks together to achieve a merged and unified laminated construct can be achieved by using one or more of the many commonly available adhesives which can be applied in different ways; or by bonding the prepared stacks together using one or more of the conventionally known bonding techniques that are well known in industry and widely documented in the technical literature. Material bonding or curing procedures that utilize heat, compression, chemical reactions, radiation, and UV light are preferred and commonplace in this technical field [See for example, the laminate manufacturing techniques described within United States Patent 5,443,883, the entire text of which is expressly hereby incorporated by reference].

B. The Choice Of Composite Materials

It will be intuitive to those of skill in the art that a wide range of composite materials can be used in the making of discrete layers, substrates and stacks for the manufacture of the laminated construct, each chosen composite material being able and well suited to provide particular properties. For example, a variety of prepared-in-advance composite materials can be employed, which typically include plastics, glass, aluminum silicates, ionomer resins, metals, rubbers, rigid aramid fiber materials, synthetic film, fabric, ceramics, or different combinations of these materials. These prepared-in-advance composite materials are frequently used in the fabrication of light-transmitting - i.e., opaque, translucent, and transparent -laminated constructs.

It will be noted in particular that a variety of opaque and clear ceramic materials are available under the trademark TOR VEX® from E. I. Du Pont de Nemours & Co.; and that rigid and flexible aramid fibers, such as those sold under the trademark KEVLAR®, are very desirable for use. Furthermore, a range of desirable composite materials identified by the trademarks SENTRYGLAS® and SENTRYGLAS PLUS® are commercially sold; and a frequently used plastic composite material available under the trademark LEXAN® - are all manufactured and sold today by E. I. Du Pont de Nemours & Co. Other prepared light-transmitting composite materials are commercially available under the trademark VISTASTEEL™ from American Defense Systems, Inc., New York (http://www.americandefensesystems.net).

Tn addition, and as merely a second illustrative list of representative choices, an alternative category of suitable composite materials typically includes polybenzoxazole ("PBO"); polybenzothiazole ("PBT') polymers or related copolymers; thermoplastic polymers (such as polyethylene, polycarbonate, etc.); thermosetting polymers (such as vinyl ester, polyvinyl butyral ("PVB"), epoxy resins, polyvinyl urethanes, etc.); and elastomers (such as

polybutadiene, natural rubber, etc.).

For best results, a very preferred listing of prepared-in-advance composite materials typically includes many diverse kinds and types of glass, ionomer resins, polycarbonates, steel, ceramics, KELVAR, and S Glass steel mesh. For example, AR 500 steel (a high hardened steel manufactured by a variety of different specialty steel manufacturers) and ionomer resins (existing as sodium salts or potassium salts) are available under the trademark SURL YN® from E. I. Du Pont de Nemours & Co., or under the trademark PRHvtACORE® from the Dow Chemical Company. ft will be appreciated that the different and diverse listings of suitable composite materials provided herein are merely illustrative and representative of the commercially available choices; and the examples of the above-given listings should not be construed as being exclusive or limiting in any manner. Many other prepared-in-advance composite materials are suitable for use, are commonly known and may be easily obtained from commercial sources, some of which are alternative formulations or species of the aforementioned materials. Accordingly, any given list of such composite materials is deemed to be non-inclusive, incomplete, and unnecessary for practitioners ordinarily skilled in this technical field.

C. The Penetration-Resistance Properties Provided By The Asymmetric Composite

Materials

The property and demonstrable attribute of penetration-resistance to impact or attack by rapidly moving objects is one of the most essential and critical qualities provided by the asymmetric composite materials in the laminated constructs. However, the presence or absence of this crucial property - effective resistance to penetration by the impact force of a moving object of determinable size, mass, and velocity - for any formulated composition or

manufactured substance is neither apparenζ nor foreseeable, nor predictable. To the contrary, recognition that the attribute of penetration- resistance actually exists and is provided by any specific composite material, particular chemical compound, or individual composition of matter depends almost entirely upon direct experimental testing and empirical proof. This was previously and remains today the prevailing view of practitioners within this technical field, and the underlying reasons for this position and commonly accepted belief are abundantly clear.

It will be recognized and appreciated that the overall force generated by a moving object at the time of its impact upon any formulated composition of matter or manufactured substance will largely vary with and depend upon two distinct factors, which are: (a) the object's physical qualities and intrinsic characteristics, such as its dimensions, volume, shape, mass (or weight), malleability, tensile strength, and hardness; and (b) the rate of speed or travel velocity for the moving object at the moment of impact.

Thus, for example, when evaluating penetration-resistance among similar thicknesses of the same substance, the capability to avoid being penetrated by an impact force will markedly deviate and vary when the moving object is one of the following: (i) a 2000 pound car driven at 45-95 miles per hour by an out-of-control driver; or (ii) a 8 foot length of 2x4 inch lumber moving between 100-125 miles per hour as a result of hurricane force winds; or (iii) a 9 millimeter lead bullet traveling at 2500-9000 fps after being fired from a hand gun.

Also, as an operational guideline, an object having a larger size and mass will typically travel at a relatively slow to moderate rate of speed, and thus will require a lesser degree of resistance property to prevent penetration of the material upon impact. Conversely, an object of small size and mass will often travel at a much greater rate of speed; and thus the material will be required to demonstrate a much greater degree of penetration-resistance to avoid being pierced,

punctured, perforated, fragmented, or shattered.

Accordingly, if the test material undergoing experimental evaluation empirically demonstrates effective penetration-resistance to high-velocity projectiles of small mass and size, then it may be properly believed and expected that that test material will provide more than adequate penetration-resistance properties against the impact force generated by moving objects of larger size and mass.

Through prolonged empirical testing, it has been empirically determined that the prepared-in-advance composite material plates used herein for making a laminated composite are durable and effective in terms of their capabilities to withstand penetration by high velocity projectiles. To demonstrate this penetration-resistance plate capacity, and as one exemplary illustration representative of such compositions and formulations generally, the empirical data and details of Table 1 are provided below.

Table 1

Clearly, Table 1 presents the empirical results of multiple performance tests experimentally conducted using a variety of different composite material plates of varying thicknesses. The empirical data of Table 1 illustrates that the attribute of effective penetration- resistance does exist in fact as a distinct and demonstrable property for a range of different composite materials, and in particular identifies a variety of diverse substances able to resist penetration after being impacted by high-velocity projectiles.

In addition, it will be appreciated that while Table 1 displays the penetration-resistance of many effective composite materials, the data provided by this table does not present nor illustrate the other compositions or substances that were empirically tested, but which failed to resist being penetrated by the moving projectiles. Thus, all the composite materials identified within Table 1 either meet or exceed the recognized and accepted testing parameters and guidelines deemed necessary for intended use as impervious compositions and impenetrable substances. For example, the sample composite asymmetric target plates of Table 1 were subjected to ballistic testing conditions as described in the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) Standard-0108.01, entitled "Ballistic Resistant Protective Materials." The federal NIJ Standards are herein incorporated in their entirety by reference.

Consequently, the embodiments of the laminated composite plates, which may employ such materials as multiple individual layers joined together in overlay series as a unitary article, have set new performance standards for penetration-resistance which were previously held to be unobtainable (For further examples of projectile penetration defeat, see specifically Examples 1, 2, and 3 infra).

D. The Organization Structure Of And Range Of Formats For The Laminated Constructs While the range and variety of layer, substrate and stack specifications are well illustrated by the examples described herein, it will be expressly understood that these particulars are presented solely for representative purposes only, as many other embodiments are considered to be within the scope of the invention.

Organization:

For example, a laminated construct may comprise any number of layers, substrates, and stacks that are fabricated using many different kinds or types of composite materials, each varying in the thickness dimension; and the laminated construct will, of necessity, be made to meet and satisfy the exact objectives sought.

Accordingly, it is deemed to be within the scope of the present invention that a laminated construct can be fabricated using various composite materials in structural formats comprising not less than 3 layers and not more then 20 layers joined in overlay series; and in structural formats comprising not less than 1 discrete stack and not more than 24 discrete stacks laminated together in sequential series. In general, a laminated construct may vary from less than 1.5 inches to more than 2 feet in overall thickness.

In some preferred embodiments of the invention, the resulting laminated constructs will comprise and utilize multiple composite materials in formats comprising from 3 to 10 layers in overlay series, and from 3 to IS discrete stacks in joined in sequential series. In the most preferred embodiments of the invention, it is contemplated one or more composite materials would be present as discrete layers or individual substrates in a range of thicknesses varying from about O.S inches to about S.O inches in size.

Structural Format Alternatives:

It will be clear to those of ordinary skill in the art that a host of different materials can be used in fabrication of the laminated constructs to suit the particular goals and desired objectives. For example, one generally useful embodiment of a laminated construct uses a choice of composite materials wherein the layers, substrates and stacks are created from plastics, glass, aluminum silicates, ionomer resins, metals, rubbers, rigid aramid fiber materials, synthetic film, fabric, ceramics or combinations of these materials.

A minimalist format

As an illustration of how to make a generally useful embodiment, one can manufacture a minimal, three layer (single stack), laminated construct comprised of asymmetric composite materials. This minimalist format comprises one sheet of glass, one ionomer resin interlayer, and one polycarbonate sheet - which are collectively superimposed over one another as overlays and are permanently joined together in sequential series to form a laminate sheet. The three individual composite materials can and are easily joined together to form a unified single article using any of the joining methods commonly known in this art.

Also if desired, one or more other composite materials can be added as additional layers or substrates to the minimalist three layer (single stack) laminate recipe, to meet the purposes and goals of the particular project. Thus, if and when desired, the minimal three-layered (single stack) fabrication can be further bonded to one or more independently manufactured asymmetric stacks in a manner that produces a more durable and more penetration-resistant laminated construct, which further eliminates spall (i.e. small flying glass shards), a frequently seen event when ordinary glass shatters.

Moreover, in this minimalist three layer (one stack) laminate embodiment, it has been found that all three layers and composite materials can be dimensioned to extend no more then 1.5 inches in overall thickness; and that this minimal laminated construct format is itself capable of withstanding any penetration or piercing from the impact force of 12 shots from a 7.62 mm M80 standard NATO rounds, with the entire grouping of shots being spaced less then 3 inches apart. Also, as concomitant features, the minimal three layer (one stack) laminated construct is transparent and resists spall.

Furthermore, if the maker chooses to increase the overall thickness (depth) of the minimal three (one stack) laminated construct to 2.0 inches overall, this format of the laminated construct will withstand penetration of a conventional round fired from a 0.50 caliber machine gun; and, furthermore, if the overall thickness (depth) of the minimal three (one stack) laminated construct is increased to 2.5 inches overall, this format of the fabricated laminate article is able and sufficient to stop penetration from a .50 caliber armor-piercing round.

High velocity projectile resistance formats

Another generally useful embodiment of the fabricated laminated construct pertains to the use of opaque, translucent, and/or transparent composite materials that are capable of preventing penetration by high velocity projectiles, high velocity explosion fragments, or combinations of these. The term "high velocity" as used herein, is defined as projectile velocities in the range from approximately 1500 to 9000 or more fps, velocities typically demonstrated by various explosion fragments. "Explosion fragments", in turn, is defined as any type of high velocity projectiles whose velocity is generated by an explosion (e.g. including explosions caused by heat, pressure, electricity, compressed air, water, etc.). The phrase "high velocity

projectiles" therefore includes both ballistic projectiles, such as bullets; and also encompasses shotgun scatter, bomb shrapnel, and metal or other type material fragments caused by large bombs, improvised explosive devices ( ⁴ TEDs"), blast mines, and those types of hand grenades equivalent in force to an M67 fragmentation grenade detonated at a horizontal distance of 5 meters.

It is contemplated and expected that high velocity projectiles and explosion fragments can derive from any number of firearms or explosive devices. Three common examples of high velocity projectiles are: a 7.62 x 39 x AP (steel core) bullet [manufactured at Plant 71, 1986, and Plant 3, 1989] fired from an AK 47 (Rumania) rifle [number 155 H Comp B Ml 07 No. D544]; metal shrapnel fragments generated by the detonation blast of a 155 mm artillery shell; and a .30caI APM2 armor piercing projectile. All of the proceeding projectiles achieve surface impact at velocities capable of providing NIJ Level IV protection to surfaces that withstand penetration of said projectiles.

Transparent, translucent and opaque embodiments and formats

Alternative formats of the asymmetric laminated construct contemplate using composite materials that are substantially transparent, or alternatively are substantially opaque. The term "opaque", as defined herein, identifies a material that fails to allow reasonable amounts of visibility when viewing through from one side of the material to the other. In comparison, the term "transparent", defines a substantially clear material that allows for a reasonable amount of visibility when viewing through from one side of the material to the other, while the term "translucent" defines a material capable of transmitting visible light rays, but through which no clear image or object can be seen.

It is believed that the transparent, translucent, or opaque formats of the laminated constructs will likely be either tinted or colored light-transmitting fabrications. Generally speaking, the formats pertaining to opaque laminate composites will comprise at least one layer of a metal or alloy material; while those embodiments pertaining to transparent and translucent laminate composite typically will not contain any metal material, but will comprise material layers that allow for the passage of visible light rays. These formats allow for the utilization of transparent composites materials in instances where both explosive blast mitigation and visual function are to be maintained, such as in guard shield assemblies.

EU. The Fabricated Laminated Constructs As Penetration-Resistant Plates A. Specifically Configured, Dimensioned, And Contoured Plates

Each laminated construct, often utilizing opaque, translucent, and/or transparent composite materials, is fabricated initially as a unitary flat plate (i.e., a planar pane, panel or slab); which is then capable of being sized, molded, shaped, bent, and/or contoured into a plurality of radically different, three-dimensional configurations and volumetric orientations. The possibilities include: specifications as to length, width and height, density, and mass; use of geometric and non-geometric configurations; availability of concave and convex orientations; existence of uniform and non-uniform curves and bends; presence of regular and irregular patterns; desirability of sculpted and non-sculpted models; and appearance of template and non- template fashioned forms.

It is also expected and intended that a range and variety of differently configured, dimensioned and/or contoured plates will be individually prepared in advanced; and that these prepared plates will be able to be arranged, assembled, and/or arrayed as a collective, with a

supporting framework, to produce penetration-resistant shields and impenetrable protective plating.

For the benefit of the intended user, several illustrative applications and uses are presented below.

B. Guard Shield Subassembly Kits Produced In Advance It is intended and expected that produced-in-advance guard shield subassembly kits subsequently to be used by the actual purchaser or intended beneficiary will be one major commercial format and manner of sale for the fabricated plates prepared from the laminated constructs. Accordingly, every produced-in-advance kit will comprise: one or more fabricated laminated constructs comprised of asymmetric composite materials, which have been produced as specifically sized and configured and/or contoured, penetration-resistant plates and then are suitable for on-site placement and positioning in a subassembly as guard shield panes, panels, and slabs; and includes a purposefully designed attachment frame or supporting framework which serves as the structural support for positioning, holding, and securing the individual fabricated plates in their proper respective positions and intended alignments along the top of a pre-existing highway median barrier. The kits may also include specific means to secure one or more fabricated plates within the support frame, one or more maneuvering elements or means, and one or more raising and lowering elements or means.

Clearly there are expected and intended to be a wide range and variety of kits produced in advance to meet a variety of different use demands and contingencies; and each type of produced in advance kit will, in turn, be sold and delivered to the actual purchaser or intended user, through conventional sales methods, distribution and warehousing systems, and common

transportation carriers to the given mailing address or indicated geographic location for installation by the purchaser or a service technician.

Tn each instance, the configured, dimensioned, and contoured plates are prepared as individual laminated constructs comprised of asymmetric laminate layers in series which are typically composed of composite materials such as plastics, glass, aluminum silicates, ionomer resins, metals, rubbers, aramid fiber materials, or combinations thereof. The fabricated plates have been individually sized, shaped, and in certain instances contoured or curved (by subjecting them to heat, light, and pressure); and the fabricated plates are prepared in advance as panes, panels and/or slabs to be fitted individually into a designated position or location within a customized or pre-designed frame, frame subassembly or support structure using adhesives, bonding materials, physical locking methods or other methods conventionally known in the art to join, lock, house or seal the plates to or within the framework.

One or more kinds and types of securing elements or means for holding and securing the supporting frame and prepared penetration-resistant panels relative to the top of the solid median barrier itself are preferably included as part of the kit. While the variety of securing means which can be employed for this purpose are quite large, one preferred manner of securing the guard shield subassembly in its intended position upon the top of the pre-existing median barrier is illustrated by Figs. 1 and 2 respectively.

Once the guard shield subassembly is erected and secured in its intended place along the top of a pre-existing highway median barrier, the erected structure will serve as a height extending protective safety fence, obstructing wall, and impediment that can effectively protect human and animal subjects traveling in cars, trucks and buses from the impact force of out-of- control moving vehicles and other fast moving objects which are redirected and uplifted in

direction after initially striking the solid highway median barrier.

C. Portability Of And On-site Installation Of Kits

Each and every kit envisioned herein is intended to be both portable and transportable on demand to a particular geographic site or locale whenever and as needed. The means for properly assembling and/or installing all the component parts of each kit regardless of location has been considered and typically has been included as one extra element added to the kit's component parts. Also included within each kit are specific means and articles for installing the components at the ultimate site of need or at a particular assembly location. For these reasons also, any other needed or desirable equipment {e.g. computers, software, telephone, vehicles, and other materials apparatus), and hardware (e.g. tools, etc.), useful for the proper assembly and installation of the kit components are contemplated to be readily available and at hand. In certain other versions and formats of the kit, the individual component parts constituting the kit as a whole will be based upon and in compliance with specified measurements or particular engineering specifications, and/or exact architectural drawings; and, at least in these instances, the prepared plates and framework support will rely completely upon these previously given specifics and particulars.

In addition, the produced-in-advance kits are envisioned and expected to be warehoused as accumulated inventory and then subsequently delivered upon demand, order, or sale, as well as in accordance with a preset time schedule. In this manner, the proper type and number of kits will routinely be available to meet the needs of the individual buyer or user, and to satisfy the particular nuances of a particular project; and to comply with the requirements defined by communications between parties, private or government contracts, and specific project

coordinators. Quality control, including project testing, is also contemplated as necessary to meet the demands or expectations of the prospective purchaser.

Accordingly, this invention is not limited to the individual embodiments disclosed, but is intended to cover all modifications that are within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. Further, the description of the specific embodiments of the invention fully reveal the general nature of the invention so that others can readily modify and/or adopt for various purposes such specific embodiments without departing from the general concept; and therefore such adaptations and modifications are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. All references and patents referred to are intended to be incorporated herein by reference.

IV. The Guard Shield Subassembly As A Whole

The present invention is a guard shield subassembly; and it presumes both the existence and presence of at least one type of conventionally known and used highway median barrier as a workpiece. The guard shield subassembly is suitable for use as an improvement to any and all of the six different concrete median barrier designs presently known and used today. Thus, the New Jersey barrier, the most-used design, is employed herein for illustrative and descriptive purposes. However, equally suitable as a workpiece is the Ontario tall-wall barrier, which has the same side slopes as the New Jersey barrier, but it is 42 inches in height; and the F-shape barrier which is similar to the New Jersey barrier, but has a lower bottom section and a flatter slope angle; and the Constant-slope barrier which is 42 inches high and whose sides have a single slope of 79 degrees; and even the now obsolete GM barrier, which looks similar to the New Jersey barrier, but is fatter in profile and whose slope breakpoint is higher by about 3 inches.

A Preferred Embodiment:

A preferred embodiment of the present invention is illustrated by Figs. 1 and 2 respectively. Fig. 1 shows the guard shield subassembly after it has been erected, positioned, and secured to the top of a pre-existing highway median barrier. Fig. 2 shows the process of how the guard shield subassembly is erected, is properly positioned, and becomes reliably secured to the top of a pre-existing highway median barrier. For purposes of accurate information and ease of understanding, the description of the instant invention will utilize both Figs. 1 and 2 concurrently.

The highway median barrier

Initially, it is important to understand that the highway median barrier 50 is a pre-existing article which serves as a workpiece upon which the guard shield subassembly 100 is erected and secured in-situ. As a manufactured article, the highway median barrier 50 has a substantially flat top 52, two sloping sides 54, two end walls 56, and a bottom 58 (not shown).

The particular highway median barrier 50 shown in Figs. 1 and 2 is presented as being the New Jersey type, which is a concrete barrier approximately 32 inches in total height, is approximately 6 feet in length, and weighs about 600 lbs. The profile or cross-sectional appearance of the barrier 50 typically is as follows: the first 2 inches of barrier rises vertically from the pavement; the next 10 inches of barrier rises at a 55 -degree angle; and the remainder of the barrier height rises at an 84-degree angle (as measured from horizontal).

The guard shield subassemblv

The guard shield subassembly is comprised of three essential elements: (i) at least one

penetration-resistant plate previously prepared as an individual laminated construct comprised of asymmetric laminate layers in series; (ii) a supporting framework of predetermined dimensions and configuration which can house, hold and support the penetration-resistant plate(s) upright in position, and which in turn can be placed at will and secured on-demand in-situ over and along the top of a pre-existing highway median barrier, and (iii) on-demand securing means suitable for fastening and anchoring the supporting framework and the penetration-resistant plate(s) housed therein over and along the top of a pre-existing highway median barrier.

As illustrated by Figs. 1 and 2 respectively, two individual penetration-resistant plates 120 have been prepared for insertion into a supporting framework 140, which has been mounted upon and attached to the flat top 52 of the highway median barrier 50. Each plate 120 appears rectangularly-shaped, and in this instance is typically three feet in length, 2 feet in height, and 3 inches in thickness. Each plate 120 appears as a prepared planar sheet of laminated composite material which is hoisted into proper position, aligned, and individually inserted into the open U- shaped channel 142 of the supporting framework 140 via a mechanical hoist.

The supporting framework 140 has been mounted upon the flat top 52 of the highway median barrier 50. The primary purpose of the supporting framework 140 is to house, hold, and maintain each penetration-resistant plate 120 in a vertical, perpendicular, and upright position along the top of a pre-existing highway median barrier. To achieve this purpose, the supporting framework 140 is structured to present a single U-shaped channel 142 into which one perimeter edge of each rectangularly-shaped penetration resistant plate 120 is inserted. The linear length of the supporting framework 140 is substantially similar or identical to the length of the median barrier 50; and the single U-shaped channel 142 has extended sidewalls 144 which hold and maintain both penetration-resistant plates 120 in an upright position over the top 52 of the

highway median barrier 50.

The supporting framework 140 is also intentionally designed and specifically constructed to provide a preformed mounting bracket 150 (or saddle shelf) which is placed upon and attached to the flat top 52 and uppermost exterior surface of the highway median barrier 50. In this respect, the supporting framework - in addition to providing the structural means for holding and maintaining each penetration-resistant plate 120 in an upright position - provides median barrier mounting means in the form of the mounting bracket 150, which is an integral part of the overall structure of the supporting framework 140.

As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the mounting bracket 150 comprises base shelf 152 and two perpendicularly angled solid side walls 154, 156. The internal spatial volume 158 encompassed within the interior of the mounting bracket 150 is substantially equal to the solid volume at the top 52 of the barrier 50; and the dimensions of the base shelf 152 and the two perpendicularly extending sidewalls 154, 156 are consistent with and conform to the size dimensions at the top 52 of the barrier 50.

A third feature and valuable aspect on the structure and construction of the supporting framework 140 is a series of triangularly-shaped projecting arm si 60, which are spaced apart and individually extend orthogonally from the linear axis and axial length of the U-shaped channel sidewalls of the framework. Each triangularly-shaped projecting arm 160 is joined to and integrated with a sidewall 144 of the framework 140; and each projecting arm 160 serves as a point of attachment and juncture by which the guard shield subassembly 100 becomes secured to the median barrier 50.

The erected guard shield subassembly 100 also employs on-demand securing means for fastening and anchoring the supporting framework and the penetration-resistant plate(s) housed

therein over and along the top of a pre-existing highway median barrier. The particular format and structure serving as the on-demand securing means illustrated by Figs. 1 and 2 for the preferred embodiment are a series of ring braces 170 and adjustable cables 180.

As seen therein, each ring brace 170 comprises a rotable ring 172 joined to an anchoring base 174 which is of sufficient size and length that a portion of each anchoring base 174 can be placed on the highway surface and positioned to lie under the bottom 58 of the median barrier 50. Once positioned under the barrier, the extended portion of the anchoring base 174 is firmly held in place by the weight of the highway median barrier itself, while the attached ring 172 remains rotable. As shown by Figs. 1 and 2, a series of four individual ring braces are placed on the highway surface under each sidewall 54 of the median barrier 50, thereby providing a total of eight ring braces 170 per barrier.

The adjustable cables 180 are attached on-demand to secure the erected guard shield subassembly firmly to the top 52 of the median barrier 50. Each adjustable cable has two attachable end 182, 184; and includes an adjustment section 186 (typically a screw-thread design) by which the cable length can be lengthened or shortened. A first cable end 182 is attached to the rotable ring 172 present at each ring brace 170. The second able end 184 is attached to one triangularly-shaped projecting arm 160 which then extend orthogonally from the axial length of the supporting framework.140. After each end 182, 184 of the cable has been joined to its proper connector, the adjustment section 186 is manipulated to shorten the cable's length and fasten a portion of the mounted supporting framework 140 firmly and positively to the top 52 of the highway median barrier 50.

Intended And Expected Variances: The penetration-resistant platefs):

Tn general, each penetration-resistant plate utilized in the guard shield subassembly will be NVD compatible, scratch resistant, capable of being heated and cooled repeatedly, offers UV protection, and creates little or no visual distortion of images for the viewer looking through the plate.

Each penetration-resistant plate will be composed of translucent, and/or transparent composite materials, and will be fabricated initially as a unitary flat plate {i.e., a planar pane, panel or slab) which is then sized, molded, shaped, bent, and/or contoured into the pre-chosen or desired three-dimensional configurations and volumetric particulars. The intended possibilities include: specifications as to length, width and height, density, and mass; use of geometric and non-geometric configurations; availability of concave and convex orientations; existence of uniform and non-uniform curves and bends; presence of regular and irregular patterns; desirability of sculpted and non-sculpted models; and the use of template and non-template fashioned forms.

Among the alternative formats for the plates(s) are those which substantially transparent, translucent, or substantially opaque. Transparent plates allow for a reasonable amount of visibility when viewing through from one side of the material to the other; while translucent plates are capable of transmitting visible light rays, but provide no clear image through the plate material; and opaque plates fail to allow reasonable amounts of visibility when viewed from one side of the plate material to the other. In addition, it is expected that the transparent and translucent formats of the penetration-resistant plates will likely be either tinted or colored light- transmitting fabrications. These formats allow for the utilization of transparent composites

materials in instances where both protection and visual function are to be maintained.

In each intended and expected instance of use, the configured, dimensioned, and/or contoured plate(s) has been sized, shaped, and in certain instances contoured or curved (by subjecting them to heat, light, and pressure); and is prepared in advance for use as a pane, or panel, or slab which is to be fitted individually into a designated position or location within a customized or pre-designed supporting framework using adhesives, bonding materials, physical locking methods or other methods conventionally known in the art to join, lock, house and seal the plates within the framework.

The supporting framework

1. The primary purpose of the supporting framework is to house, hold, and maintain each penetration-resistant plate of the subassembly in a vertical, perpendicular, and upright position along the top of a pre-existing highway median barrier. To achieve this purpose and goal, the supporting framework is expected and intended to exist in a wide range and variety of structural formats ; and can alternatively be designed and be constructed as: (i) an outer frame that completely surrounds and encompasses the exposed perimeter edges of the penetration-resistant platφ); (ii) a single edge frame that exists and is placed only along one dimensional edge of the penetration-resistant plate(s); (iii) a partial frame that is located along two or more dimensional edges forming the outer edge perimeter of the plate(s); (iv) an interlocking frame which is present between individual plates as well as surrounding one or more outer dimensional edges of the individual plates; and (v) a tandem frame which will hold and co-align the penetration- resistant plates of one subassembly with a second subassembly in tandem as a single framework.

In addition, each supporting framework can be a construct designed to provide one or

more internal frame channels such that each individual channel is able to house, hold and support a penetration-resistant plate within the guard shield subassembly. The frame channels are typically shaped to house and hold the edge of the plate; and the channels can be shaped to provide walls of varying height, strength, and material integrity sufficient to maintain each penetration-resistant plate of the subassembly in a vertical, perpendicular, and upright position along the top of a pre-existing highway median barrier. Moreover, the frame channels can comprise, but are not limited to, U-shaped frame channels, C-shaped channels, slotted cylinders, slotted tubes, slotted hollow rods, grooved plates or tracked shafts. Suitable materials for the frame channels may include, but are not limited to glass, metal, plastics, epoxies, polycarbonates, rubbers or ceramics.

It is also intended and expected that, in some instances, the supporting framework will include an inner lining or liner - i.e., a separate casing or coating which is placed around or is attached to one or more edges of a penetration-resistant plate prior to insertion of the plate into the supporting framework. The inner lining or liner functions as an enhancement to sustain and maintain the plates further in a vertical, perpendicular, and upright position; and thus any type of kind of material or article which provides this enhancement function for the supporting framework is deemed suitable for use. Thus, the inner lining may include, but is not limited to, articles such as rollers, clips, tracks, magnetic elements and/or adhesives; and materials available for use as inner liners include, but are not limited to, glass, metal, plastics, epoxies, polycarbonates, rubbers and/or ceramics.

2. The design and structure of the supporting framework may and typically should also serve an important secondary purpose: To provide a preformed mounting bracket or saddle shelf which can be placed upon and attached to the flat top and uppermost exterior surface of a

highway median barrier. In this respect, the supporting framework - in addition to providing the structural means for holding and maintaining each penetration-resistant plate of the subassembly in an upright position - will also include median barrier mounting means typically present in the form of one or more right-angled walls and/or other angled support members which project outwardly to or tangentially from the linear axis and length of the frame wall housing the penetration-resistant plates. Such a framework design and structure is vividly presented in the preferred embodiment illustrated by Figs. 1 and 2 respectively.

It will also be readily recognized and appreciated that a great variety and wide range of structural formats serving as median barrier mounting means can be prepared by ordinarily skilled designers, architectural engineers, and trained craftsman working in this technical field. Accordingly, the mode and manner by which the supporting framework can be mounted upon and joined to the flat top and uppermost exterior surface of a highway median barrier is deemed to be a matter of engineering convenience, cost of manufacture, and personal choice.

3. The supporting framework, in the best formats, will also serve as a structural aid in helping to secure the framework to the barrier such that it remains fixed and fastened to the top of the highway median barrier. One excellent example is illustrated by the preferred embodiment shown in Figs. 1 and 2 respectively, in which a series of triangularly-shaped projecting arms are spaced apart and individually extend orthogonally from the linear axis and length of the frame wall housing the penetration-resistant plates.

Clearly, even within the confines of this preferred embodiment, a number of variances are available. For example, the spacing distance between each individual projecting arm need not be uniform and can be varied; the total number of projecting arms may be increased or

decreased; the actual dimensions of each projecting arm may change; and the overall configuration of the projecting arms need not be substantially triangular.

The on-demand securing means

In the completed assembly illustrated by Fig. 1 herein, the on-demand securing means are the third and final essential element of the guard shield subassembly; and this third element exists for and functions to provide a single outcome and result - to fasten and anchor the supporting framework and the upright penetration-resistant plate(s) housed therein over and along the top of a pre-existing highway median barrier.

The mode and manner of how this securing function is achieved is of no particular importance so long as the supporting framework (and the upright penetration-resistant plates) remains fixed and fastened to the top of the highway median barrier; and that the firmly secured supporting framework (and the upright penetration-resistant plates) does not give way, does not get loose, and does not fail over long durations of time and repeated exposures to heat and cold as well as to harsh and inclement weather.

VJ. Experiments And Empirical Data

To demonstrate the merits and value of the present invention, a series of planned experiments and empirical data are presented below. It will be expressly understood, however, that the experiments described and the results provided hereinafter are merely the best evidence of the subject matter as a whole which is the present invention; and that the empirical data, while somewhat limited in content, are only illustrative of the scope of the invention envisioned and claimed.

Experimental Example 1: Opaque Composite Material Blast Testing

The physical specifications of the opaque composite material being tested are provided by Table El below.

Table El

In order to test the capability of one embodiment of the present invention to withstand projectile and fragment penetration, a 12" x 12" opaque composite material test sample having the dimensions described in Table El was installed in a metal frame at a height of approximately 5 feet. The sample was then subjected to six consecutive 7.62 x 39 x AP steel core shots from an AK 47 rifle, followed by being further subjected to the metal shrapnel fragments from a detonation blast of a 155 mm shell placed at the distance of approximately 33 feet from the opaque composite material. The composite material remained at a height of approximately 5 feet above the ground, while the 155 mm shell was detonated at a height of approximately 8 feet

above the ground.

Results of the multiple impacts on the opaque composite material tested are provided by Table E2 below.

Table E2

After impact of the high velocity explosion fragments with the composite material of Table E2, it was determined by visual inspection that the composite material was not penetrated by any of the 7 blasts. The impact of the six ballistic projectiles on the 12" x 12" opaque composite material test sample was determined. The impact of the seventh blast, which was a shrapnel bomb blast, was scattered across the surface of the material. But it was determined by post ballistic testing that a 1.5" x .75" inch explosion fragment was stopped, and did not

penetrate the material. No spall was detected.

Experimental Example 2: Transparent Composite Material Blast Testing

Physical specifications of transparent composite material tested are provided by Table E3.

Table E3

In order to test the capability of one embodiment of the present invention to withstand projectile and fragment penetration, a 12" x 12" opaque composite material test sample having the dimensions described in Table E3 was installed in a metal frame at a height of approximately 5 feet. The sample was then subjected to three consecutive 7.62 x 39 x AP steel core shots from an AK 47 rifle, followed by being further subjected to the metal shrapnel fragments from a detonation blast of a 155 mm shell placed at the distance of approximately 33 feet from the opaque composite material. The composite material remained at a height of approximately 5 feet above the ground, while the 155 mm shell was detonated at a height of approximately 8 feet above the ground.

Results of the multiple impacts on the transparent composite material tested are provided by Table E4.

Table E4

After impact of the high velocity explosion fragments with the composite material of Table E4, it was determined by visual inspection that the composite material was not penetrated by any of the 4 blasts. The impact of the six ballistic projectiles on the 12" x 12" opaque laminated composite material test sample was determined. The impact of the forth blast, which was a shrapnel bomb blast, was scattered across the surface of the material. But it was determined by post ballistic testing that a 1.5" x .75" inch explosion fragment was stopped, and did not penetrate the material. Again, no spall was detected.

Experimental Example 3: NIJ Standard-0108.01 Level IV Experiment

Tn another experiment proving another embodiment of the plates of the instant invention withstanding high velocity projectile penetration, sample composite asymmetric target plates were subjected to ballistic testing conditions as described in the National Institute of Justice (NTJ) Standard-0108.01, entitled "Ballistic Resistant Protective Materials." The federal NTJ Standards are herein incorporated in their entirety by reference. In accordance with the requirements for the high Level IV protection required by the NIJ standards, target sample plates of one embodiment of the present invention of composite material target plates were subjected to single projectile discharges from a .30 caliber rifle using APM2 armor piercing projectile ammunition.

As is shown in Fig. 4, sυpra, the target plate in experiment #25 illustrates a strike face 400 of the target plate and the rear face 402 of the same target plate. Visual inspection of Fig. 4 indicates that no penetration by the armor piercing projectile occurred through the composite material plate strike face 400 or plate rear face 402.

After impact of the high velocity armor piercing projectiles with the composite material plates of Table ES, it was determined by visual inspection that the composite material was not

penetrated by either of the 2 separate armor piercing projectile discharge impacts, as was further established upon inspection that the experimental transparent composite target plates were determined to have protected the 'witness plates' located behind the composite target plates.

The illustrative characteristics of two asymmetric composite target plates (the center of the plates were impacted) are summarized in Table ES below. As is established, at impact velocities of 2,831 FPS and 2,860 FPS discharged from a .30 caliber rifle, the composite target plates defeated .30 caliber rifle armor piercing projectiles, as required for Level IV protection.

Table E5

While the foregoing invention has been described in some detail for purposes of clarity and understanding, these particular embodiments and examples are to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive. It will be appreciated by one skilled in the art from a reading of this specification and following claims that various changes in form and detail can be made without departing from the true scope of the invention.