JP2000501468A - Reinforced soil structure - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) [Summary] A retaining wall element (2) for use in a reinforced soil structure (1), the retaining wall element having a reinforcing portion (60) extending substantially across the retaining wall element, This reinforcement has a connection point at one end which is connected to the soil stabilizing member (4) and / or the adjacent retaining wall element.

Description

Description: TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to a retaining wall element having a reinforced soil structure such as a soil stabilizing structure, and to a reinforced soil structure having a retaining wall composed of such a retaining wall element. .

 Background Art In civil engineering projects, it is often required to build an earth structure such as an embankment. Such structures must hold a large amount of soil firmly so as not to collapse, and generally use at least one steep retaining wall for this purpose. One method of structurally stabilizing the soil is the so-called tie anchor method, in which a number of sturdy retaining wall elements hold the soil behind and pass through the soil. The retaining wall element is held in place by a tie or the like connected to the anchor. As an alternative method, the soil can be stabilized using multiple frictional stabilization elements that extend from the retaining wall of the structure (meaning the wall portion of the retaining wall structure, the same applies hereinafter) into the soil behind. . In this configuration, the soil is stabilized by frictional engagement with, for example, a strip, sheet or grit-like soil stabilizing element. Usually, the retaining wall of the structure consists of several retaining panels made of concrete panels connected to the front end of the frictional stabilizing element. Many of these system configurations are known from GB-A-1 324 686.

 It is known from GB-A-1 324 686 to make retaining walls from multiple panels, such as concrete panels connected to soil stabilization strips. In some of the systems described, the lugs (ears, protrusions) form a connection point in the panel that connects to the cast soil stabilization strip. These systems have been very successful, but have some drawbacks. In particular, the concrete panels need to be relatively thick because the panels have to be rigidly connected to the soil stabilization strips and the forces have to be transmitted between the panels and the strips. As the panel thickness increases, material usage increases, transportation costs increase, and panel handling becomes more difficult in the field.

 GB-A-1 324 686 proposes to connect a soil stabilizing strip to a pin located in a vertical hole in the edge of a concrete retaining wall element. However, commercial production of this system has not been achieved, presumably because panel thicknesses have been overcome to overcome the load concentration created by the connection of the panel and soil stabilization strip at the panel edges. It seems that it is necessary to thicken.

 DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a retaining wall element for use in a reinforced soil structure, comprising a reinforcing portion extending substantially across the element, wherein the reinforcing portion is at one end or at one end thereof. A retaining wall element is provided having a connection point for coupling to a soil stabilizing member and / or an adjacent retaining wall element in the vicinity.

 The present invention also extends to a reinforced soil structure configured using such a plurality of retaining wall elements and a method of constructing such a reinforced soil structure.

 Since the reinforcement substantially crosses the retaining wall element, it can increase the strength of the retaining wall element and effectively transfer forces between the retaining wall element and the soil stabilizing member and / or between adjacent retaining wall elements. You. As a result, the remaining portion of the retaining wall element can be made thinner, and thus the weight can be reduced as compared with the conventional retaining wall element. Therefore, the weight of the retaining wall element can be considerably reduced, the material used can be reduced, and the transportation, handling and construction costs can be reduced.

 When connecting points are used to connect the retaining wall element to the soil stabilizing member, a conventional retaining wall element structure is used in which the connecting point is located inside the edge of the retaining wall element. It can be simplified compared to retaining wall elements.

 The reinforcement can extend across the retaining wall element, but preferably extends up and down, i.e. vertically, when the retaining wall element forms part of the retaining wall, or it can be inclined When the retaining wall element itself is inclined rearward on the retaining wall surface, it is preferable that the retaining wall element be extended by giving an inclination angle inclined backward to the vertical.

 The stiffening portion can be provided inwardly from the edge of the retaining wall element, for example, two reinforcements can be provided inwardly from the respective opposite edge of the retaining wall element. Alternatively, the reinforcing portion may be provided at the edge of the retaining wall element. For example, two reinforcing portions may be provided at respective opposite edges of the retaining wall element. In a preferred embodiment, reinforcements are provided at each edge of the retaining wall element. Therefore, the plurality of reinforcing portions extend all around the retaining wall element.

 The reinforcement can be formed in several ways, for example, integrally with the remaining part of the retaining wall element. Thus, if the retaining wall element is formed by pouring concrete in a conventional manner, ribs and other reinforcing shaped members can be molded as part of the retaining wall element. The connection point of the soil stabilizing member and / or of the adjacent retaining wall element may thus be determined, for example, by molding a connecting pin or lug projecting from the reinforcing profile or by providing a hole in the reinforcing profile. Formed at one end of the stiffening profile by inserting a connecting pin or lug (which may be a separate pin or lug, or may be formed on a soil stabilizing member or adjacent retaining wall element) Is done. In the above-mentioned examples of the plurality of reinforcing portions extending on the peripheral surface of the retaining wall element, these reinforcing portions may be thick peripheral extending flanges surrounding the central thin portion. This retaining wall element therefore presents a shallow open box shape. The connection point is therefore provided in the flange at the corner of the retaining wall element.

 As an alternative to molding the stiffening part of the retaining wall element integrally with the rest, the stiffening part can be constituted by a member made of a different material from the rest of the retaining wall element. This stiffening part can be attached to the outside of the retaining wall element, for example in the form of an external brace, provided that at least the retaining wall element is cast concrete, and the reinforced part is at least partially at the retaining wall element. It is preferable to provide it inside. This is achieved by casting the reinforcement in place.

 The invention can further provide that the retaining wall element can be formed using a metal plate or sheet, such as steel, for example, to make the stiffening portion rigid. Such retaining wall elements can be thinner than those made of concrete. As mentioned earlier, the method of forming the stiffening portion is varied and the stiffening portion can be cast integrally with the retaining wall element. The stiffening part is thus formed, if desired, by bending the metal, for example using a press. This is most conveniently done near the edge of the panel. The bent portion may be, for example, only vertical edges, but it is preferred that all edges be bent inward by about 90 °. Preferably, each bend margin is equal from each edge of the panel and forms a rim extending circumferentially so that the retaining wall element has a shallow open box shape.

 When having such a bend, it is generally desirable that the connection point be a separate member or assembly attached to the reinforcement. In this preferred shallow box shape, the connection points are provided at the structurally strongest corners. If multiple assemblies are provided, each one is located at a corner. The assembly is tied in place, preferably by welding. A typical configuration has two pin-like connectors at the upper corner and two pin-receiving connectors (eg, holes or tubes) at the lower corner.

 Alternatively, the stiffening portion is provided as a separate (typically elongated) stiffening member. This is tied to the retaining wall by conventional methods, for example, by bolts, rivets, adhesive or welding. However, welding is preferred because the connection is made over almost the entire length of the reinforcing member, and the welding may be continuous welding or partial welding, for example by spot welding.

 When the reinforcement is exposed, for aesthetic reasons, the reinforcement is usually located on the back of the retaining wall element. However, this is not required, and in some designs, the reinforcement is visible on the front side.

 The connection points are provided by brackets or other connecting retaining elements cast or fixed to the reinforcement. Preferably, however, the connection point is provided by a connection pin. By doing so, it is easy to position a connector such as a hole, loop or hook formed at the end of the soil stabilizing member around the connecting pin during construction. Additionally or alternatively, adjacent panels may be attached to corresponding portions of the adjacent panels by engaging pins.

 In some preferred embodiments, the connecting pin is connected to the back of the retaining wall element, preferably providing a clearance between the back of the retaining wall element and the pin. This configuration is particularly useful when a seat retaining wall is employed. One way to achieve this configuration is to bend the pins or attach the pins to a bracket.

By providing the clearance, the soil stabilizing member can be connected to the retaining wall element without providing a large gap between the vertically adjacent retaining wall elements.

 This bent pin may be connected to the back of the molded retaining wall element, but if one wishes to use such a pin, the preferred configuration is to partially cast the pin into the retaining wall element. Thus, the pin has three parts: a first part that is cast into the retaining wall element, a second part that projects outwardly from the back of the retaining wall element to provide an offset, and a third part that provides a connection point.

 In most configurations, the third portion is substantially parallel to the first portion, and therefore parallel to the back of the retaining wall panel (element).

 In the simplest retaining wall element only one connecting pin is required, but if this pin is used to connect the soil stabilizing element to the retaining wall element, the pin will be connected to the soil stabilizing element. Retaining wall elements must be used with great care so as not to generate a couple around the pin that could be caused by this, which would make the structure unstable. Therefore, it is preferable to use a plurality of pins (for example, two) and connect each to a different soil stabilizing member.

 The connecting pin can be provided separately from the retaining wall element, for example, received in a hole in one end of the reinforcement.

 However, alternatively, the pins can be fixed to the retaining wall element.

 A retaining wall element is typically configured to cooperate with another retaining wall element to create a retaining wall surface of the reinforced earth structure. It is a great advantage that the connection pin can be used to provide a connection point for the soil stabilizing member and to be connected to another retaining wall element provided with suitable pin receiving means such as holes, depressions, collars, loops or hooks. . Accordingly, the retaining wall element preferably has receiving means, such as an adjusting element for receiving the connecting pin.

 The double use of such connecting pins simplifies the design. The connection arrangement of the pins in the receiving means is most suitable for connecting vertically adjacent retaining wall elements. At the time of construction, one retaining wall element is installed, and when the retaining wall element is not yet connected to the soil stabilizing member, and thus is not anchored to the underlying soil, this pin connection will The wall element is held in place by the underlying retaining wall element.

 If the retaining wall element is assembled with similar elements and is flat and forms, for example, a vertical retaining wall, the connecting pins and the receiving means are usually parallel to the retaining wall. However, it is necessary to make the vertically adjacent retaining wall elements at different angles, for example, the retaining element in the lower tier is vertical and the retaining element above it tilts backward. might exist. The configuration using the connecting pin and the receiving means can absorb such an angle change. For example, the connecting pin and / or the receiving means of the retaining wall element is angled (not parallel) with respect to the main plane of the retaining wall element. This is possible.

 The retaining wall element may, for example, be provided with a deformable strip between the edges of the retaining wall element and above the upper edge of one or more retaining wall elements located below the retaining wall element. It can be designed to have a bottom edge that rests. The configuration of the pins and receiving means thus assists in positioning and supporting the retaining wall elements during construction, but usually does not provide substantial load transfer between adjacent retaining wall elements. However, in some preferred embodiments, the receiving means is configured to provide an abutment with which a connecting pin of an adjacent similar retaining wall element abuts at least during application. This is very effective. Because, in a completed and stable reinforced soil structure, the weight of the retaining wall element is generally supported by frictional engagement with the underlying soil (supported by the soil via soil stabilizing members), and such support is dependent upon the construction process. Is not obtained.

 Thus, the retaining wall element has a receiving means with an abutment engaging element, with which the connecting pin of the other retaining wall element engages, so that the force is different from one retaining wall element. To the other retaining wall elements via pins and receiving means, rather than via the edges of those retaining wall elements. Therefore, it is not necessary to design and construct the edge of the retaining wall element to support the adjacent retaining wall element during construction. In the case of vertically adjacent retaining wall elements, the weight of one retaining wall element or of the retaining wall element on it places an axial compressive load on the connecting pin. Yet another advantage is that when the structure is completed, adjacent retaining wall elements are less likely to be damaged by their relative movement. Furthermore, since the edges of the panel do not directly engage each other, the degree of freedom in selecting the shape of the retaining wall element is further increased, and the allowable dimension of the retaining wall element is increased apart from the connecting pin and the receiving means. Can be. Yet another advantage is that there is no need for interlocking features such as dovetails along the edges or dovetails with lips and tenons. Thus, the edges may be straight from front to back, although the cross-sectional shape may be locally different near the connecting pin or receiving means when looking at the cross-section. As will be understood from the above description, various advantages are derived from the configuration in which the receiving means provides the engaging means with which the connecting pins of the adjacent similar retaining wall elements engage during construction. It is believed that this development itself is inventive, and thus, from the second aspect, the present invention is a retaining wall element for use with a similar retaining wall element in a reinforced earth structure, the first similar A connecting pin for abuttingly engaging the adjacent retaining wall element; and receiving means for receiving a connecting pin of a second similar adjacent retaining wall element, the receiving means including a pin for the second similar adjacent retaining wall element. It is possible to provide a retaining wall element including an engaging element that abuts and engages.

 As described above, this configuration allows the force to be transmitted between the adjacent retaining wall elements by the connecting pin and the receiving means without passing through the edge of the retaining wall element.

Thereby, construction can be simplified, and damage to the adjacent edge can be prevented.

Such a retaining wall element does not necessarily need to have the reinforcing portion and the soil stabilizing member connection point described in relation to the first embodiment of the present invention, but it is preferable that the retaining wall element be provided. Other features of the connecting pins and receiving means described herein can be used in the second preferred embodiment of the present invention.

 The configuration of the connecting pin and receiving means interconnecting the retaining wall elements can be designed such that the connecting pin abuts against the rigid member, and such a configuration can provide low cost construction or relatively long service life. It is suitable for a design that estimates short. Preferably, however, the receiving means or connecting pins comprise a deformable member such as a block or pad of an elastomeric material, for example rubber, plastic, cork and the like. The purpose of such deformable members is to absorb, at least to some extent, the relative movement of the retaining wall elements caused by the subsidence of the soil when the retaining wall elements are assembled to form a retaining wall structure. The purpose is to give tolerances to the assembly of the wall elements. The deformable member may be provided separately from the retaining wall element during construction, or may be attached to the retaining wall element prior to assembly.

 If the reinforcement extends substantially longitudinally through the retaining wall element, according to the first aspect of the invention, the force resulting from the interconnection of the retaining wall element with other retaining wall elements and the soil stabilizing member Ideal for absorbing the forces generated by coupling to In a particularly preferred embodiment, the connecting pin is provided at one end of the reinforcement and the receiving means is provided at the other end.

 As discussed above, the reinforcement reinforces the retaining wall element and thus increases the force acting on the reinforcing element, for example, the resistance to mountain loads acting on the back of the retaining wall element. It is understood that this structure provides flexibility in the design of the retaining wall element portion (which is visible during use). This gives the attractiveness that different materials than conventional materials, for example steel, plastic or synthetic materials, can be used for some or all of the retaining wall of the retaining wall element, and for aesthetic reasons the retaining wall element. The degree of freedom in selecting the shape of the material is increased, and the material and construction costs are reduced.

 The connecting pin and the receiving means can be separate members at the opposite edges of the retaining wall element, and are preferably connected so as to transmit the load by the reinforcement, as described above.

Preferably, however, the connecting pins and the receiving means of the retaining wall element are directly interconnected to form an elongated member. The connecting pin and the receiving means are so combined so as to form a reinforcement or its main part.

 One preferred method of forming such directly interconnected connecting pins and receiving means ("elongated members") is a pin receiving means, such as a hole formed in one end of the pin, or one end of the pin. To provide an elongated pin with a tube or collar around it. This results in a simple structure, in which force can be transmitted directly from the pins and the corresponding pin receiving means to the reinforcement and thus to the rest of the panel. During construction, this configuration transfers the weight of one panel directly to the reinforcement of the lower panel.

 A retaining wall assembled from multiple retaining wall elements can be arranged in a straight line with lower retaining wall elements, in which case the lateral position of the connecting pin is selected according to the desired position of the soil stabilizing member. it can. In fact, such a configuration is used when the connection point is at the corner of the retaining wall element. This configuration allows the curved retaining wall to be easily constructed.

 However, it may be desirable to configure the retaining wall as a brickwork with the lower retaining wall element retracting the retaining wall element above it by half the width of the element. To accomplish this, each of the pair of connecting pins is spaced from the side of the retaining wall element about a quarter width of the retaining wall element. This spacing is the normal spacing of the pins of the completed structure, and when the soil stabilizing member is attached to the pins or receiving means, the soil stabilizing members are equally spaced apart, so the force is reduced Evenly distributed. However, if desired, the elongate member formed by the connecting pin and the receiving means forms a reinforcement such that such spacing does not provide optimal reinforcement for the retaining wall element.

Each reinforcement is preferably provided on the inner side within a distance of not more than 1/4 width of the retaining wall element from the side of the retaining wall element. This preferred distance is 1/5 the width of the retaining wall element. Therefore, there is an advantage that the center of the elongated member is bent so that the distance between the connecting pin and the receiving means from the side is larger than the distance from the side of the retaining wall element at the center. This configuration is suitable for large retaining wall elements and is rarely needed for small retaining wall elements with small deflections.

 The present invention is applicable to retaining wall elements having a wide range of sizes, but preferably the retaining wall elements are relatively small, e.g., 0.5m x 0.5m or 0.85m x 0.85m square panels or 0.6m high. It is a rectangular panel that is 0.9m wide, 1.2m wide at 0.6m high, 0.7m wide at 0.5m high or 1.0m wide at 0.5m high. Such a small size can be made thinner, so it can be made lighter and easier to handle during construction.

Preferred concrete retaining wall elements are 100 mm or less, more preferably 80 mm or less or 50 mm or less. Retaining wall elements made of other materials are substantially thinner. Small fishing equipment can be used and the cost can be reduced. Furthermore, the use of small retaining wall elements allows the height to be equal to the vertical distance between the soil stabilizing members. Large retaining wall elements require two vertically spaced soil stabilizing members.

 Various types of soil stabilizing members can be used. For example, metal strips known from GB-A-1 324 686 or GB-A-1 563 317, polymer strips known from WO 94/23136 or "ladder" metal strips, metal grids also known from WO 94/23136. is there. If the connecting point of the retaining wall element is used for connection to the soil stabilizing member and a connecting pin is provided, the connection of the strip or grid to the retaining wall element can be made in accordance with the disclosure in the above mentioned material. it can. In one preferred configuration, a metal bar is used that passes around the connecting pin of the retaining wall element and is connected directly to the soil stabilizing member of the metal strip, for example, by welding. This is a particularly economical way of connecting retaining wall elements to soil stabilizing metal strips. The metal bar may be a loop extending around one connecting pin, or two or more connecting pins belonging to one retaining wall element or spanning several adjacent retaining wall elements. It can be a loop extending around. By rotating the metal bar around one or more connecting pins, the load of the soil stabilizing member can be distributed to the separated position of the retaining wall.

 In a preferred construction, the recess is formed in the retaining wall element at least at the point of connection. The front end of the soil stabilizing member is received in the recess and fixed to the connecting pin. As a result, the edge of the vertically adjacent retaining wall element abuts or slightly separates from the soil stabilizing member, so that the soil stabilizing member does not become entangled with the retaining wall element and is visible from between the panels. Nothing. In the above-mentioned shallow box shape, the same effect can be obtained by providing the rim inside at least in the region of the connecting pin. The provision of recesses is particularly useful when the same pins are connected to soil stabilizing members and adjacent retaining wall elements. Such recesses have the advantage whether the retaining wall element is made of metal or concrete.

 One soil stabilizing member can be used to connect two adjacent retaining wall elements in order to rigidly connect horizontal adjacent retaining wall elements. Alternatively or additionally, a separate connector interconnecting adjacent retaining wall element connection points can be used.

These connectors may be plates having two holes for receiving two connecting pins. This structure has the advantage of ensuring a correct lateral spacing of the retaining wall elements. The diameter of the holes can be slightly increased to provide a predetermined tolerance.

If desired, a third hole or other connecting means can be provided to cooperate with the soil stabilizing member. Preferably, the retaining wall element has indentations on the upper and lower edges of the element extending to one side of the element. This arrangement places the front end of the soil stabilizing member or a separate connector within the recess of the laterally adjacent retaining wall element and interconnects the connection points of these adjacent retaining wall elements. The precise lateral spacing of the retaining wall elements forms two laterally spaced points in the soil stabilizing member, extending these two points laterally between the retaining wall element and these points. Is determined by the front end of the soil stabilizing member. Such soil stabilizing members are considered to be inventive. Because it is not only used for the retaining wall elements disclosed herein, it can be used for a wide variety of retaining wall elements.

 Viewed from the third aspect, the present invention is a soil stabilizing member for use in a reinforced soil structure, comprising: a set of laterally spaced attachment points for attachment to corresponding portions of a retaining wall of the reinforced soil structure; An earth stabilizing member is provided that extends laterally between attachment points to form a lateral space between the attachment points. With this configuration, the soil stabilizing member is used effectively, and the exact relative positions of the adjacent retaining wall elements are determined. By providing a lateral portion between the attachment points, which is preferably substantially flush with the retaining wall in use, the lateral spacing of the retaining wall elements is maintained very accurately.

 The transverse section may be provided separately from the rest of the soil stabilizing element and may be assembled therewith during the installation of the retaining wall, or alternatively, may be provided with the rest of the soil stabilizing element. It is fixed integrally.

 Preferably, the attachment points are openings, and these openings may be holes or loops formed in the plate portion of the soil stabilizing member. With a loop, two loops are formed in the continuous bar, thereby eliminating the need to weld the ends of the bar. Alternatively, the two bars can be bent to form respective loops, and the ends of the bars can be secured together, for example, by welding.

 As described above, it is preferable to provide a deformable member between adjacent retaining wall elements in order to handle the relative movement of the retaining wall elements due to the settlement of the soil. In a preferred configuration, the front portion of the soil stabilizing member is provided so as to be deformable. Such soil stabilizing members are considered to be inventive. Because it can be used not only for the retaining wall elements described here, but also for a wide variety of retaining wall elements.

 In view of the fourth aspect, the soil stabilizing member used in the reinforced soil structure of the present invention is a deformable front part that forms a deformable abutment element between vertically adjacent retaining wall elements of the reinforced soil structure. Is provided.

 This deformability is provided, for example, by deformable blocks or pads of rubber, plastic, or the like. This pad or the like may be provided separately from the rest of the soil stabilizing member and assembled with the rest during the installation of the retaining wall element, or alternatively, may be previously soiled, e.g. by an adhesive. Secured to the rest of the stabilizing member. Therefore, there is no need to provide a separate deformable member other than on the edge of the retaining wall element. If the retaining wall elements are connected to each other by pins, an annular deformable pad can be arranged around the pins.

 In one preferred configuration, the deformability is obtained by bending the front end of the soil stabilizing member to form a spring. Therefore, there is no need to add any material to provide deformability. The spring may be of various shapes, for example, it may be of the "C" type with flat sides. However, if the front end is in the form of at least one loop, it is a spring and acts as a hole (a hole formed by the loop) for receiving a suitable part of the retaining wall element such as a pin.

Such holes are preferably formed vertically and receive vertical pins. The loop so provided forms a coil spring. A gap is provided in an overlapping part of the soil stabilizing member forming the loop in a stress-free state, thereby enabling compressive deformation.

 Although a single loop may be provided, preferably the soil stabilizing member has a pair of loops and a portion extending laterally between the loops. The advantages of this configuration have been described above with respect to the third aspect of the invention.

 Several embodiments of the present invention will be illustratively described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is an elevation view of a reinforced soil structure according to the present invention.

 FIG. 2 is a longitudinal sectional view of a reinforced soil structure, showing a first embodiment of a retaining wall element.

 FIG. 3 is a diagram corresponding to a part of FIG. 2 and showing a relationship between two adjacent retaining wall elements.

 FIG. 4 is a longitudinal sectional view of one of the retaining wall elements of FIG.

 FIG. 5 is a rear view of the retaining wall element of FIG. 3.

 FIG. 6 is a plan view of the retaining wall element of FIG.

 FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the retaining wall element of FIG.

 FIG. 8 relates to a modification of the first embodiment and is a diagram corresponding to FIG.

 FIG. 9A is a partial perspective view of the soil stabilizing member of FIG. 3.

 FIG. 9B is a partial perspective view of another soil stabilizing member.

 FIG. 10 is a plan view showing the soil stabilizing member connected to the retaining wall element.

 FIG. 11 is a rear view of the second embodiment of the retaining wall element.

 FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of a retaining wall element.

 FIG. 13 is a side view of an end, which is a portion of a reinforced soil structure employing a retaining wall element of the type shown in FIG. 12, illustrating the connection of two adjacent retaining wall elements.

 FIG. 14 is a front view of a reinforced soil structure employing a retaining wall element of the type shown in FIG.

 FIG. 15 is a partial perspective view of a retaining wall element of the type shown in FIG.

 FIG. 16 is a rear view of the fourth embodiment of the retaining wall element.

 FIG. 17 is a plan view of the retaining wall element of FIG.

 FIG. 18 is a partial cross-sectional end side view showing the connection of two vertically adjacent retaining wall elements of the fourth embodiment.

 19a to 19g are front views of a reinforced soil structure using different types of retaining wall elements of the present invention.

 FIG. 20A is a schematic plan view of a reinforced soil structure of the present invention that forms a curved retaining wall.

 FIG. 20B is a schematic elevation view of a reinforced soil structure employing a retaining wall element of the present invention forming a retaining wall having a dog toe.

 FIG. 21a is a schematic perspective view of the foundation of the reinforced soil structure.

 21b-21f are a series of schematic cross-sectional views illustrating the construction of a reinforced soil structure employing the retaining wall element of the present invention.

 FIG. 22 is a vertical sectional view showing the connection of two non-parallel retaining wall elements.

 FIG. 23 is a vertical sectional view of a fifth embodiment of the retaining wall element.

 FIG. 24 is a rear view of the sixth embodiment of the retaining wall element.

 FIG. 25 is a schematic front view of a retaining wall structure using a number of retaining wall elements shown in FIG.

 FIG. 26 is a partial rear perspective view of a sixth embodiment of the retaining wall element.

 FIG. 27 is a perspective view of a connecting pin assembly used in the sixth embodiment.

 FIG. 28 is a perspective view of a connecting tube assembly used in the sixth embodiment.

 FIG. 29 is a schematic perspective view showing the connection between the panel and the soil stabilizing member of the sixth embodiment.

 FIG. 30 is a rear perspective view of the retaining wall element of the seventh embodiment.

 FIG. 31 is a partial cross-sectional side view showing the connection of two vertically adjacent retaining wall elements of the seventh embodiment.

 FIG. 32 is a horizontal sectional view of the connection of FIG. 31.

 FIG. 33 is a plan view of a plate forming a retaining wall element according to a seventh embodiment before bending.

 FIG. 34 is a rear view of the eighth embodiment of the retaining wall element.

 35 is a vertical sectional view taken along line AA of FIG.

 FIG. 36 is a horizontal sectional view taken along line BB of FIG. 34.

 FIG. 37 is a vertical sectional view showing the connection of two vertically adjacent retaining wall elements of the eighth embodiment.

 FIG. 38 is a perspective view of the front end of the soil stabilizing member.

 FIG. 39 is a perspective view of an alternative example of the soil stabilizing member.

 FIG. 40 is a perspective view showing still another soil stabilizing member and one corner of a retaining wall element connecting the soil stabilizing member.

 Embodiment First, FIG. 1 shows a reinforced earth structure having a retaining wall composed of a plurality of separate retaining wall elements 2 in a panel shape. As can be seen from FIG. 2, these retaining wall elements are used in the form of a number of steps to form a retaining wall, and to hold the mountain (clod) 3 behind. The mountain is stabilized by a soil stabilizing member 4 extending rearward from the retaining wall element 2 to the inside of the mountain.

A series of concrete foundation blocks 5 are set underground at the bottom of the retaining wall.

 Each retaining wall element 2 is generally rectangular and has a width of 1 m, a height of 0.5 m and a thickness of approximately 75 mm. The retaining wall elements are molded as one concrete piece. Each retaining wall element 2 has a pair of elongate members 60 which are cast together (embedded) therein. The elongate member 60 includes a steel pin 6, which extends over substantially the entire height of the retaining wall element, with the top of the pin projecting from the upper surface of the retaining wall element. A steel tube 7, having a diameter slightly larger than the outer diameter of the pin, is welded around the lower end of the pin 6, this tube sticking out of the pin and projecting slightly below the lower surface of the retaining wall element (see FIG. 4). , 7 '). As can be seen from FIG. 3, the tube provides an opening 8 into which the pin projection 6 'of the adjacent retaining wall element is inserted as shown. The upper end of the pin projection 6 'is chamfered to facilitate installation. It can be seen that the pin 6 and the tube 7 interconnect vertically adjacent retaining wall elements. A rubber deformable block 9 is fitted in the tube near the end 6 "of the pin. In use, the rubber block 9 is used to extend the pin end 6 'of the upper and lower adjacent retaining wall element. , 6 ".

 The upper edge 10 and the lower edge 11 of the adjacent retaining wall elements 2, 2 are separated by a gap 13 to allow relative movement between the adjacent retaining wall elements 2, 2 and are thus separated. The fact that the block 9 provides some play in the opening 8 allows the subsidence of the structure to be accepted. The edges 10 and 11 are chamfered such that the gap 13 is wedge-shaped in longitudinal section larger at the front than at the rear. An insert 14 in the form of a geotextile strip or the like is attached to the rear of the adjacent retaining wall element to cover the gap 13 and prevent soil leakage.

 The soil stabilizing member 4 is connected to the retaining wall via its holes, loops or hooks at the upper edge of the retaining wall element 2 by receiving the projections 6 'of the pins 6. A recess 12 is provided in the upper edge 10 of the retaining wall element 2 around the pin protrusion 6 'to provide clearance between the soil stabilizing member 4 and the adjacent retaining wall element. This depression is shown in the plan view of FIG.

 The pins 6 also serve to reinforce the retaining wall element 2, while providing mutual engagement between adjacent retaining wall elements and between the retaining wall element and the soil stabilization strip. As can be seen from FIG. 7, the two pins are each set at a distance approximately one-fourth the width of the retaining wall element and inwardly from the sides of the retaining wall element, each of which is approximately the same as the retaining wall element 2. Reinforcing half of the body. The load of the mountain 3 acting on the back surface of the retaining wall is transmitted to the pin 6 via the concrete, and the pin 6 is tied to the soil stabilizing member 4, so that the load of the mountain 3 is transmitted to the strip.

 FIG. 8 shows a modified example of the retaining wall 2 ', in which the same reference numerals are used for the same components as those shown in another drawing. In this retaining wall, it is understood that the steel pin 6 is bent so that both ends 6 ', 6 "are offset backward (retracted). Thus, the main part of the pin is attached to the concrete retaining wall. Although buried, the ends do not protrude from the upper and lower edges of the molded retaining wall element 2 ', in which case there is no need to form a recess for receiving the soil stabilizing strip 4. Instead, the retaining wall element Behind 2 ', the strip fits into the protrusion of pin 6.

 FIG. 9A shows details of the soil stabilizing member 4. The soil stabilizing member 4 includes a reinforcing bar (steel bar) 4 a (for example, an 8 mm-diameter reinforcing bar usually used for concrete reinforcement) bent into a loop shape so as to engage with the protrusion 6 ′ of the pin 6. Both ends of the bar 4a are tied to a conventional galvanized steel strip 4b, preferably by welding.

 An alternative example of the soil stabilizing member 4 is shown in FIG. 9B. In this example, a similar steel bar 4c is bent into a triangular shape to form a loop, and as shown in FIG. 10, two pins belonging to the same retaining wall element or two pins belonging to adjacent retaining wall elements. Surround the projection 6 '. Again, the rear end of the bar 4c is fastened to the steel strip 4b. It is understood that the retaining wall element 2 shown in FIG. 10 can also be configured to include a recess 12a for receiving the laterally extending portion of the triangular bar 4c.

 In the second embodiment of the retaining wall element 2 shown in FIG. 11, the elongate member 60 is deformed, and its central portion 61 is offset from the upper and lower ends of the elongate member toward the side of the retaining wall element. With this configuration, the reinforcement or rigidity of the elongated members 60 is improved, and the projection 6 'and the tube 7 of each elongated member are separated from the side of the retaining wall element by a distance of 1/4 of the width of the retaining wall element. It can be located where.

 FIG. 12 shows a third embodiment relating to a retaining wall element 20 which can be used in place of the retaining wall element of FIG. 3 in the reinforced soil structure of FIG. The retaining wall element 20 comprises a substantially flat, rectangular steel plate 21 having the same height and width as the previously described retaining wall element. However, steel is significantly stronger than concrete, so only a thickness of 5 mm is needed. Two elongated members 60 are welded to the back of the retaining wall element. The pin structure includes a steel bar, the upper and lower ends 22 ′ of which are formed by bending the bar and are offset from the plane of the steel plate 21. The upper end 23 of the elongated member 60 corresponds to the pin portion 6 'of the previous embodiment and the pin portion of the pin of the modification of the embodiment, and does not protrude beyond the uppermost portion of the steel plate 21. Similarly, the lower end 24 corresponds to the tube 7 of the previous embodiment and has a tube 30 welded to the lower end. The tube 30 is provided so as to project beyond the bottom of the steel plate 21.

 As can be seen from FIG. 13, the steel tube and the upper end 23 of the pin cooperate and are connected as described above. The restoration block 25 is again provided in the tube.

 The upper end 23 of the elongated member 60 serves to anchor the soil stabilizing member 4 thereto. Since the elongated member 60 is provided on the back of the steel plate, it is not necessary to provide a recess in the upper edge of the retaining wall element to receive the soil stabilizing member 4. Instead, as can be seen from FIG. 13, the soil stabilizing member 4 simply passes around the upper end 23 of the elongate member, lies below the tube 30 of the adjacent retaining wall element and is spaced from the plane of the steel plate. A block 26 extends between the elongated member 60 and the steel plate, and this block holds the soil stabilizing member 4 at the proper height relative to the steel plate 21.

 The steel plate 21 is significantly thinner than the concrete retaining wall element 2 of the previous embodiment. There is no need to chamfer the edges of the board. However, if you want to bevel for aesthetic or other reasons, it is possible. This embodiment is used to construct a structure that stabilizes soil by friction, as described above. The steel bar again has the function of reinforcing the retaining wall element 20 and in this regard it is noted that the steel bar is welded to the steel plate 21 along the entire length of the contact between the steel bar and the steel plate. I want to. This can be most clearly understood from FIG. Spot welding is sufficient instead of welding over the entire length.

 The steel retaining wall element 20 shown in FIGS. 16-18 is similar to that shown in FIGS. 12-15, except that the shape of the elongated member 60 is different. The central portion 61 of the elongate member is offset from the upper and lower ends of the elongate member toward the sides of the retaining wall element. This offset is similar to the offset of the elongated members provided on the concrete retaining wall element of FIG. 11, and the reason for the offset is the same. In this case, the offset portion 22 'is offset rearward and laterally. This embodiment also includes a pair of upper and lower transverse bars 62 that extend between the elongate members 60 and are used to keep the elongate members rigid behind the steel plate 21.

 FIG. 23 schematically illustrates a steel panel 21 ′ which is a modification of the steel plate panel. Here, a flange protruding rearward around the edge is provided. This helps to stiffen the panels and prevents adjacent panels from overlapping each other if the panels move due to the sinking of the panels. If it is desired to project the flange further behind the ends 22 ', 24 of the pins, cut out the flanges to allow the ends of the pins to pass through the flanges and interconnect the panel and strip. Can be made possible.

 A particular advantage of steel panels is that the panels can be easily fabricated in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, and that standard elongated members 60 can be welded to the rear surface of such panels. As can be seen from the series of elevations shown in FIGS. 19a-19g, this panel can create a variety of attractive retaining walls. In particular, the present invention can provide a retaining wall element having no upper and lower surfaces suitable for forming a seating surface of an adjacent retaining wall element. For example, the structure of FIG. 19c would be particularly difficult to build if a row of retaining wall elements had to be supported by the retaining wall element immediately below during construction.

 As can be seen from FIG. 20A, the retaining wall element of the present invention can be used to build an earth structure having a curved retaining wall 40. Although this figure shows an example using a concrete panel 2, it is also possible to use a steel plate panel 20. The retaining wall has a brick-laying effect when viewed from the elevation (as already described), with the central part of each retaining wall element 2 'in a given row being a set of adjacent retaining rows in the row below it. Arranged on the edge of wall element 2 ". Each pin is inserted at one quarter of the panel width on each side of the panel, so that it is directly aligned with the pin of the vertically adjacent retaining wall element. It can be seen that the pins effectively form a series of axes around which the retaining wall elements displace with respect to each other.

 FIG. 20B shows another modification in which a dog toose is provided. As in FIG. 20A, the panels are arranged to provide a brick-laying effect by the pins of vertically adjacent panels that are also interconnected. However, in this example, the panels are alternately angled in opposite directions for construction to form an angle with the plane of the retaining wall.

 21a to 21f illustrate a method of constructing an earth structure using the retaining wall element of the present invention. Here, the steel retaining wall element of the second embodiment is used, but this method is equally applicable to the first embodiment.

 First, as shown in FIG. 21a, a series of foundation blocks are created on site. The blocks are separated by a distance of half the width of the retaining wall element 20, and a short steel pin is set vertically 51 on the retaining wall element. The purpose of this short pin is to engage the tube 30 on the bottom row of retaining wall elements. To ensure that the structure is horizontal when it is completed, the top surfaces of all blocks 50 should be at the same level and the pins 51 should be short enough so that they do not hit the lower panel, or all. Either the pins should be long enough to hit the lower panel (in this case, the top ends of the pins must all be at the same level). In the latter case, slight differences in the level of block 50 are allowed.

 Next, the soil stabilizing strip 4 is connected to the short pin. The soil stabilization strip extends rearward from the pins (FIG. 21b), and then the first layer backfill 52 is made as shown in FIG. 21c. Note that the front 53 of the backfill is remote from the retaining wall area.

 Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 21D, the retaining wall elements 20 in the first row (stage) are positioned on the pins 51. The pins prevent the retaining wall element from tipping over. A set of soil stabilization strips 4 can further be connected to the upper ends 23 of the plurality of elongated members 60 of the retaining wall element 20 and placed on the backfill soil 52. Next, backfilling is started from behind the retaining wall to fill the soil stabilization strip. This backfilling ensures that the retaining wall element 20 is firmly held in place via the soil stabilizing strip before the backfill presses against the retaining wall element. As can be seen from FIG. 21f, here too, backfilling ends short of the retaining wall. Next, the second-stage retaining wall element 20 is connected to the first-stage retaining wall element, and the steps described first are repeated. Since the weight of the panel is supported by the pins of the lower panel, the risk of damaging the edge of the panel can be avoided or the need for a bearing surface on the edge of the panel can be eliminated. More layers are added as needed.

 FIG. 22 shows how vertically adjacent retaining wall elements form an angle with each other, forming a pin 6 with a rearwardly inclined upward extension 6 ′. This configuration, achievable with special connecting pins and receiving means, makes it possible to create sophisticated retaining wall shapes.

 A sixth embodiment of a retaining wall panel (element) 90 is shown in FIGS.

This retaining wall panel is formed from 4 mm thick flat steel plate and is suitable for structures up to 6 m in height. Thinner metals can be used for lower structures, and thicker metals can be used for higher structures. This retaining wall panel has a part which is bent at an angle of 90 ° rearward with respect to the center part which is 0.6 m square at the edge. This bent portion extending rearward is approximately 30 mm wide. A connecting pin 92 is provided at the upper corner and a tube 93 is provided at the lower corner.

When used, the panel 90 receives the tube 93 of the upper panel by the connecting pin 92 of each retaining wall panel 90, and forms a retaining wall as shown in FIG. Note that unlike the other embodiments, the vertical edges of the panel are not offset, but are aligned and configured like brickwork.

 The structure of the panel 90, which is a shallow open box, can be seen from FIG. Since the bent portion 91 reinforces the panel, it can withstand the earth pressure without any other reinforcement. At each corner, the intersection of the rear bent edge 91 is cut off to receive a connecting pin assembly 95 and a connecting tube assembly 96.

 FIG. 27 shows the connecting pin assembly 95. The connecting pin assembly 95 includes a strip 98, which resembles a cut-out portion of the panel and has holes for passing pins. First, these components are welded together. The strip is bent such that a recess 97 is provided around the pin of the finished panel to receive the end of the soil stabilizing member. This recess prevents the soil stabilizing member from tangling in the upper panel or through the gap between adjacent panels.

 The connecting tube assembly 96 (FIG. 28) is formed from a steel plate 99 having the same thickness as the retaining wall panel. Tube 100 is welded to the lower surface of the plate.

 As can be seen from FIG. 26, the connecting tube assemblies are located at the respective corners of the retaining wall element such that the connecting pin 92 is directly above the tube 93. The assembly is first tack welded in place and later welded to the entire retaining wall element. Note that the lower end of the connecting pin is bent towards and welded to the vertical bending line of the retaining wall element (it abuts). The tube assembly 96 is welded to the front of the panel and the tube itself is located in a hole 102 in the lower edge 91 'of the panel. The corner of the panel is where the pin 92 and the tube 93 are located, and the three interconnected portions provided by the panel main part and the rim (ie, the bent portion 91 and the strip 98) which are the components of the panel. The presence of vertical elements makes it a very strong connection point.

 In the retaining wall structure, the connecting pins 92 and connecting tubes 93 of the vertically adjacent panels are interconnected as described above with respect to other embodiments. Therefore, a rubber pad is generally provided in the tube 93 to absorb the sink. However, the interconnection of horizontally adjacent panels is quite different.

 As shown in FIG. 29, a metal plate 105 having two holes 106 is provided through adjacent connecting pins 92, thereby connecting the two pins. The metal plate 105 is located in the recess 97 described above and separates adjacent retaining wall elements by an appropriate distance. The holes in the metal plate are a predetermined amount (5 mm in this case) larger than the pins 92 to absorb a predetermined amount of expansion and / or subsidence of the structure. The reinforced earth member made of an 8 mm diameter steel wire 110 is then passed around the pin 92. As in the previous embodiment, the panel layer can be added by engaging the tube 93 of the next layer panel with the pin 92.

 Forming a curved retaining wall structure is easier than in other embodiments because the vertical edges of the panels are lined up without offset to provide a bricking effect. The workmanship is also quite attractive, because the connection point is on the edge of the panel and that connection point is a good center of rotation.

 A retaining wall panel 90 of the seventh embodiment is shown in FIGS. The panel is made of 3 mm thick flat steel plate and has overall dimensions of 0.6 m x 0.6 m. The panel has the shape of a shallow open box, and has a bent portion 91 which is bent 90 ° rearward with respect to the central portion 130 at the edge thereof. The length extending rearward of the bent portion is about 60 mm. As shown in FIG. 33, each bending portion extending vertically has a bending line 111. Each horizontally extending fold has three fold lines 112, and when the plate is bent, the horizontally extending lip 113 enters behind and then vertically inward. It is formed to have a ledge 114 extending horizontally at the location. A recess 97 for receiving the front of the soil stabilizing member is formed behind the vertically adjacent lip (see FIG. 31). As shown in FIG. 30, adjacent edges of the bent portion 91 are welded at 115.

 A connecting pin assembly 95 is provided in each upper corner of the retaining wall panel 90 and engages a hole 116 in the lower ledge 114 at the lower corner of the upper panel. The connecting pin 92 is welded at its lower end to a bent portion 111 extending vertically between the central portion 130 and a bent portion 91 extending vertically. The pin 92 projects vertically through a hole 117 provided in the upper ledge 114.

 An eighth embodiment of the retaining wall panel is shown in FIGS. The retaining wall panel is molded of concrete and has a main central portion 130 surrounded by a flange 131 of increased peripheral thickness. The flange 131 extends around the perimeter of the panel and effectively provides four reinforcements across the panel, two reinforcements horizontally across the panel and two reinforcements vertically across the panel. A lip 113 and a ledge 114 extending horizontally are formed along the upper and lower edges of the panel, respectively.

As in the embodiment of FIGS. 30-33, the ledge 114 extends vertically inward from the lip and forms a recess 97 (see FIG. 37) behind the vertically adjacent lip 113, in which recess Receives the front end of the soil stabilizing member. As shown in FIG. 37, a chamfer 135 can be optionally provided on the entire periphery of the panel at the front edge of the flange 131.

 A vertical blind hole is formed by embedding the plastic tube 100 in the flange 131 adjacent the corner of the panel. During assembly, the connecting pin 92 with play is inserted into the tube 100 to position another panel over the panel. A longitudinal gap 140 is allowed between the top of the pin and the top of the upper panel tube 100 to allow some play for relative vertical movement of the panel. In this example, the gap is 5 mm.

 The example of the retaining wall panel shown in FIGS. 34 to 37 is a square of 0.5 m, the maximum thickness of the flange 131 is 100 mm, and the thickness of the central portion 130 is 40 mm. Although other dimensions are of course possible, this example illustrates the savings in center thickness and thus weight compared to known panels.

 The front of the soil stabilizing member 120 is shown in FIGS. 31, 32, 37 and 38. The front portion is formed from a continuous bar and is configured to have two loops 121 connected by a horizontal bar portion 122. The bars extend rearward as two parallel elongated portions 123 and are connected at appropriate lengthwise intervals by cross members 124.

Each loop 121 engages around a connecting pin 92 in a recess 97 between vertically adjacent retaining wall elements 90. The lateral spacing of the loops 121 is determined and held by the lateral bars 122 so that the front of the soil stabilizing member can determine the lateral spacing of laterally adjacent retaining wall elements.

 Each loop 121 forms a vertical space 125 between the horizontal bar portion 122 and the rearwardly extending portion 123, such that the adjacent retaining wall panels are moved relative to each other in the vertical direction, for example, by subsidence. When this is done, an extendable coil spring is formed. Therefore, for example, the initial interval of the lip 113 can be 5 mm, and the initial interval of the ledge 114 can be 20 mm. The soil stabilizing member can be formed from an 8 mm diameter bar, and the vertical space 125 in the loop can be 4 mm.

 The front of another soil stabilizing member 120 is shown in FIG. This member 120 differs from the soil stabilizing members of FIGS. 31, 32, 37 and 38 in that the horizontal bar portion 122 is formed by welding the ends of two bars. As in the previous example, the transverse bar is vertically spaced from the rearwardly extending portion 123, thereby forming a deformable spring.

 The front of yet another soil stabilizing member is shown in FIG. In this case, the rearwardly extending portion 123 of the soil stabilizing member is a flat strip with ribs, as known from GB-A-1 563 317. The front end of the strip is welded to a laterally extending plate 122. Holes 121 are formed in the plate 122 at laterally spaced intervals. The retaining wall panel 90 has an upwardly projecting pin 92 into which one of the holes 121 engages to attach the soil stabilizing member to the retaining wall element. An annular deformable pad 140 is provided in a pin shape, and a deformable front portion is provided on the soil stabilizing member. Alternatively, pad 140 may be attached to the soil stabilizing member prior to retaining wall assembly.

 As a modification of the configuration in FIG. 40, the portion 123 extending rearward may be a tie bar, and the rear end may be firmly connected to an anchor embedded behind the retaining wall.

[Procedure amendment]

[Submission date] June 3, 1998 (1998.6.3)

[Content of amendment] Claims 1. A soil stabilizing member for use in a reinforced soil structure, comprising a laterally spaced mounting point for mounting to a corresponding portion of a retaining wall of the structure, and a lateral space extending laterally between the mounting points. And a soil stabilizing member comprising: 2. The soil stabilizing member according to claim 1, wherein the attachment point is an opening formed by two loops provided in a continuous bar. 3. A soil stabilizing member for use in a reinforced soil structure, the deformable front end having a deformable abutment element between vertically adjacent retaining wall elements of the structure when used. Soil stabilizing member to be formed. 4. 4. The soil stabilizing member of claim 3, wherein said front end is bent to form a spring. 5. The soil stabilizing member according to claim 4, wherein the front end is at least one loop. 6. The soil stabilizing member of claim 5, comprising a pair of loops and a portion extending laterally between the loops. 7. A retaining wall element for use in a reinforced soil structure, comprising a reinforcing portion extending substantially across the retaining wall element, wherein the reinforcing portion has a soil stabilizing portion member and an adjacent support at or near an end. A retaining wall element having a connection point for connecting to a wall element. 8. 8. The retaining wall element of claim 7, wherein said connection points are provided by connection pins. 9. 9. The retaining wall element of claim 8, further comprising receiving means for receiving a connecting pin of an adjacent similar retaining wall element. Ten. 10. The retaining wall element of claim 9, wherein said receiving means comprises an engaging element for abuttingly engaging a connecting pin of said adjacent similar retaining wall element. 11． 11. The retaining wall element according to claim 8, 9 or 10, wherein the connecting pin is fixed to the retaining wall element. 12． The retaining wall element of claim 11, wherein said connecting pin comprises a fixed metal plate. 13. 11. The retaining wall element according to claim 8, 9 or 10, wherein the connecting pin is supplied separately from the retaining wall element. 14. The retaining wall element according to any one of claims 7 to 13, wherein the reinforcing portion is formed by bending a portion of the retaining wall element. 15． 15. The retaining wall element according to any one of claims 7 to 14, comprising a plurality of reinforcements extending substantially all around the retaining wall element. 16． The retaining wall element according to any one of claims 7 to 15, comprising a depression extending to one side of the retaining wall element at upper and lower edges of the retaining wall element. 17． A retaining wall element for use with another similar retaining wall element in a reinforced earth structure, comprising an engaging pin for engaging a first adjacent similar retaining wall element, and a second adjacent similar retaining wall element. Retaining means for receiving a connecting pin of the retaining wall element, said receiving means comprising an engaging element against which said second adjacent similar retaining wall element abuts. 18． A reinforced soil structure having a retaining wall, comprising the retaining wall element according to any one of claims 7 to 17, wherein the soil stabilizing member is connected to the retaining wall element. 19. A soil stabilizing member according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a retaining wall including the retaining wall element according to any one of claims 7 to 17. A reinforced soil structure comprising a soil stabilizing member connected to a wall element.

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Claims (19)

[Claims] Claims: 1. A retaining wall element for use in a reinforced soil structure, comprising a reinforcing portion extending substantially across the retaining wall element, wherein the reinforcing portion has an earth stabilizing portion at or near an end. A retaining wall element having a connection point for coupling to a member and an adjacent retaining wall element. 2. The retaining wall element according to claim 1, wherein said connection point is provided by a connection pin. 3. The retaining wall element of claim 2, further comprising receiving means for receiving a connecting pin of an adjacent similar retaining wall element. 4. The retaining wall element according to claim 3, wherein said receiving means comprises an engaging element for abuttingly engaging a connecting pin of said adjacent similar retaining wall element. 5. The retaining wall element according to claim 2, wherein said connecting pin is fixed to said retaining wall element. 6. The retaining wall element according to claim 5, wherein said connecting pin comprises a fixed metal plate. 7. The retaining wall element according to claim 2, wherein said connecting pin is supplied separately from said retaining wall element. 8. The retaining wall element according to claim 1, wherein the reinforcing portion is formed by bending a portion of the retaining wall element. 9. The retaining wall element according to claim 1, comprising a plurality of reinforcing portions extending substantially all around the retaining wall element. 10. The retaining wall element according to claim 1, further comprising a depression extending to one side of the retaining wall element at upper and lower edges of the retaining wall element. 11. A retaining wall element for use with another similar retaining wall element in a reinforced earth structure, comprising an engaging pin for engaging a first adjacent similar retaining wall element, and It has receiving means for receiving the connecting pins of two adjacent similar retaining wall elements, said receiving means comprising an engaging element against which said second adjacent similar retaining wall element abuts. Retaining wall element. 12. A reinforced soil structure having a retaining wall, comprising the retaining wall element according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the soil stabilizing member is connected to the retaining wall element. Reinforced soil structure. 13. A soil stabilizing member for use in a reinforced soil structure, comprising: a laterally spaced mounting point for mounting to a corresponding portion of a retaining wall of the structure; and a laterally extending space between the mounting points. Soil stabilizing member comprising: a portion providing a lateral space. 14. The soil stabilizing member according to claim 13, wherein the attachment point is an opening formed by two loops provided in a continuous bar. 15. A soil stabilizing member for use in a reinforced soil structure, comprising a deformable front end, said front end being deformable between vertically adjacent retaining wall elements of said structure when used. An earth stabilizing member that forms a contact element. 16. The soil stabilizing member according to claim 15, wherein said front end is bent to form a spring. 17. The soil stabilizing member according to claim 16, wherein said front end is at least one loop. 18. The soil stabilizing member according to claim 17, comprising: a pair of loops; and a portion extending laterally between the loops. 19. The soil stabilizing member according to any one of claims 13 to 18, further comprising a retaining wall including the retaining wall element according to any one of claims 1 to 11. A reinforcing soil structure comprising a soil stabilizing member connected to the retaining wall element.