ZKXKZ LLC — Department of Transportation SBIR Phase II: 142FH3

Description

In Phase I, ZKxKZ designed, developed and demonstrated an approach for fabrication and rapid installation of low cost modular mini-roundabouts made from recycled plastic boards. Phase 1 culminated in the demonstration of half-scale 24’ diameter roundabout’s center circle made with the recycled boards. The same material and modular construction approach can be applied to other roundabout features, such as splitter islands. Phase II will feature two major types of activity. Lab testing will be conducted to verify suitability of the recycled plastic boards and associated ground anchors for the roundabout application, with special tests created to evaluate durability and hold down features. The majority of Phase II work will center on identification of locations for prototype roundabout installations in cities around the country. ZKxKZ has already reached an agreement for the site of our first Phase II installation. It is expected that prototype roundabouts will be installed early enough in the program to allow the team to monitor the performance of the systems over a period of operational exposure, and use this data to adjust future designs for any observed shortcomings. The ultimate objective of Phase II will be establishment of a low cost mini-roundabout product suitable for commercial sale.