Abstract An annular elastomer member is provided with a central opening and has an outer circumferential edge generally perpendicular to the top and bottom surface. The central opening is spaced inwardly from the outer circumferential edge and a plurality of circumferentially spaced openings are provided in the elastomer member between the opening and the circumferential edge. One of the surfaces is provided with an annular groove which is generally V-shaped in cross section and extends around the surface in spaced relation to each the central opening and the circumferential edge. The other surface is provided with a Vshaped groove so that the members may be stacked to provide a guard of desired vertical extent, with a support engaged at each end of the stacked elastomer members for positioning in relation to a structure. The central opening is provided with a plurality of spaced recesses with projections therebetween, which with the circumferentially spaced openings absorb movement of the elastomer members upon contact to inhibit damage thereto.
A guard for preventing damage by contact of floating vessels with structures in water covered areas comprising: a. an annular elastomer member having a central opening and an outer circumferential edge spaced therefrom; b. said member having a plurality of circumferentially spaced openings therein and extending through said member between the central opening and said outer circumferential edge of said annular member; c. said annular member having top and bottom surfaces; d. one of said surfaces having a recess therein; e. the other of said surfaces having a projection therein whereby said annular members may be stacked with the bottom surfaces of each engaging the top surface of the next adjacent member and with said projection engaging in the recess; f. support means for engaging in the central opening of a plurality of stacked annular members to position them in relation to a structure as a guard; and g. the central opening being defined by a plurality of recesses separated by projections extending circumferentially of the central opening, with the recesses extending toward the outer circumferential edge, with the projections having an inner surface for contact with the support member upon impact.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
192 words
A guard for preventing damage by contact of floating vessels with structures in water covered areas comprising: a. an annular elastomer member having a central opening and an outer circumferential edge spaced therefrom; b. said member having a plurality of circumferentially spaced openings therein and extending through said member between the central opening and said outer circumferential edge of said annular member; c. said annular member having top and bottom surfaces; d. one of said surfaces having a recess therein; e. the other of said surfaces having a projection therein whereby said annular members may be stacked with the bottom surfaces of each engaging the top surface of the next adjacent member and with said projection engaging in the recess; f. support means for engaging in the central opening of a plurality of stacked annular members to position them in relation to a structure as a guard; and g. the central opening being defined by a plurality of recesses separated by projections extending circumferentially of the central opening, with the recesses extending toward the outer circumferential edge, with the projections having an inner surface for contact with the support member upon impact.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
24 words
The invention of claim 1 wherein said annular projection and annular groove at least partially coincide with the circumferentially spaced openings in said body.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
15 words
The invention of claim 1 wherein the recesses and pRojections are generally rectangular in configuration.