Abstract:
Apparatus and method of operation for controlling vehicular traffic entering or leaving a secured facility. The apparatus consists of a tire-puncturing spikes assembly, movable post assemblies, ditch/cover assemblies, fixed posts, a gate arm, and a safety hose & pressure switch assembly. Tire-puncturing spikes are mounted on a rotateable shaft imbedded in the roadway that will raise or lower the spikes in conjunction with the gate arm to control traffic. Movable posts can be raised or lowered to stop or permit traffic movement. Mechanically operated ditch covers can be opened to provide impassable traps for vehicles (or tanks). A gate arm operated in conjunction with the spikes will direct vehicles to stop before reaching raised spikes. A safety pressure switch and hose assembly is located immediately downstream of the spikes assembly and will automatically activate the entire apparatus into a "failsafe" mode if a vehicle passes over the hose while the spikes are in the raised position. Fixed pipe barriers imbedded in concrete will channel vehicles over and prevent bypassing of the controllable system.