Innovation Description and Benefit:

The Patch Marker is a low-cost, safety-focused solution that allows supervisors to pre-mark asphalt patch locations without leaving their vehicle. Traditionally, marking patches required stopping, exiting the truck, and using multiple safety measures, creating hazards and inefficiencies. This innovation repurposes common components—such as a barricade leg, shovel holder, actuator, and a simple switch—into a truck-mounted system powered by the vehicle’s cigarette lighter. With the push of a button, operators can spray precise start and stop marks while driving, eliminating the need for lane closures or TMAs. The device is easy to build for under $100, improves crew safety, and streamlines patching operations.