US20110170958A1 - Soil reinforcing connector and method of constructing a mechanically stabilized earth structure - Google Patents
Soil reinforcing connector and method of constructing a mechanically stabilized earth structure Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20110170958A1 US20110170958A1 US12/861,632 US86163210A US2011170958A1 US 20110170958 A1 US20110170958 A1 US 20110170958A1 US 86163210 A US86163210 A US 86163210A US 2011170958 A1 US2011170958 A1 US 2011170958A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- facing
- vertical
- wire
- wires
- lift
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
- E02D—FOUNDATIONS; EXCAVATIONS; EMBANKMENTS; UNDERGROUND OR UNDERWATER STRUCTURES
- E02D29/00—Independent underground or underwater structures; Retaining walls
- E02D29/02—Retaining or protecting walls
- E02D29/0225—Retaining or protecting walls comprising retention means in the backfill
- E02D29/0241—Retaining or protecting walls comprising retention means in the backfill the retention means being reinforced earth elements
Definitions
- MSE Mechanically Stabilized Earth
- the basic MSE technology is a repetitive process where layers of backfill and horizontally placed soil reinforcing elements are positioned one atop the other until a desired height of the earthen structure is achieved.
- grid-like steel mats or welded wire mesh are used as earthen reinforcement elements.
- the reinforcing mats consist of parallel transversely extending wires welded to parallel longitudinally extending wires, thus forming a grid-like mat or structure.
- Backfill material and the soil reinforcing mats are combined and compacted in series to form a solid earthen structure, taking the form of a standing earthen wall.
- a substantially vertical wall may then be constructed a short distance from the standing earthen wall.
- the vertical wall not only serves as decorative architecture, but also prevents erosion at the face of the earthen wall.
- the soil reinforcing mats extending from the compacted backfill may then be attached directly to the back face of the vertical wall in a variety of configurations.
- the vertical wall will frequently include a plurality of “facing anchors” either cast into or attached somehow to the back face of the wall at predetermined and/or spaced-apart locations. Each facing anchor is typically positioned so as to correspond with and couple directly to the end of a soil reinforcing mat. Via this attachment, outward movement and shifting of the vertical wall is significantly reduced.
- Embodiments of the disclosure may provide a mechanically stabilized earth structure.
- the mechanically stabilized earth structure includes a wire facing having a bend formed therein to form a horizontal element and a vertical facing, the horizontal element having initial and terminal wires each coupled to a plurality of horizontal wires, and the vertical facing having a plurality of vertical wires coupled to a plurality of facing cross wires and a top-most cross wire.
- the mechanically stabilized earth structure also includes a soil reinforcing element having a plurality of transverse wires coupled to at least two longitudinal wires having upwardly-extending extensions, and a connection device having a bearing plate with one or more longitudinal protrusions configured to receive the upwardly-extending extensions, the connection device being configured to couple the soil reinforcing element to the vertical facing.
- the mechanically stabilized earth structure includes a first lift which includes a first wire facing having a first horizontal element and a first vertical facing, the first horizontal element having initial and terminal wires coupled to a plurality of horizontal wires, and the first vertical facing having a plurality of vertical wires coupled to a plurality of facing cross wires including a last facing cross wire and a top-most cross wire vertically-disposed above the last facing cross wire.
- the first life also includes a first soil reinforcing element having a plurality of transverse wires coupled to at least two longitudinal wires having upwardly-extending extensions, and a first connection device having a first bearing plate with one or more longitudinal protrusions configured to receive the upwardly-extending extensions of the first soil reinforcing element, the first connection device being configured to couple the soil reinforcing element to the first vertical facing.
- the first life also includes backfill disposed on the first wire facing to a first height above the last facing cross wire of the first vertical facing.
- the mechanically stabilized earth structure also includes a second lift disposed on the backfill of the first lift, the second lift, which includes a second wire facing having a second horizontal element and a second vertical facing, and a second soil reinforcing element disposed on the second horizontal element and having a plurality of transverse wires coupled to at least two longitudinal wires having upwardly-extending extensions.
- the second lift also includes a second connection device having a second bearing plate with one or more longitudinal protrusions configured to receive the upwardly-extending extensions of the second soil reinforcing element, the second connection device being configured to couple the second soil reinforcing element to the first and second vertical facings.
- inventions of the disclosure may also provide a method of constructing a mechanically stabilized earth structure.
- the method includes providing a first lift includes a first wire facing bent to form a first horizontal element and a first vertical facing, the first vertical facing having a plurality of vertical wires coupled to a plurality of facing cross wires including a last facing cross wire and a top-most cross wire vertically-disposed above the last facing cross wire.
- the method also includes placing a first quantity of backfill on the first lift to a first height above the first horizontal element, and coupling a first soil reinforcing element to the first vertical facing at the first height and on top of the first quantity of backfill.
- the method further includes placing a second quantity of backfill atop the first quantity of backfill and the first soil reinforcing element to a second height above the last facing cross wire of the first vertical facing, and disposing a second lift atop the first lift, the second lift includes a second wire facing bent to form a second horizontal element and a second vertical facing, the second vertical facing having a plurality of vertical wires coupled to a plurality of facing cross wires including a last facing cross wire and a top-most cross wire vertically-disposed above the last facing cross wire.
- the method also includes placing a third quantity of backfill on the second lift to a third height above the second horizontal element, and coupling a second soil reinforcing element to the second vertical facing at the third height and on top of the third quantity of backfill.
- the method further includes placing a fourth quantity of backfill atop the third quantity of backfill and the second soil reinforcing element to a fourth height above the last facing cross wire of the second vertical facing.
- FIG. 1A is an isometric view of an exemplary facing anchor assembly, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 1B is a side view of the assembly shown in FIG. 1A .
- FIG. 1C is an isometric view of the exemplary facing anchor assembly of FIG. 1 connected to a soil reinforcing element and facing, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 2A is an isometric view of the exemplary facing anchor assembly of FIG. 1 with an exemplary connection apparatus, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 2B is an isometric view of the assembly of FIG. 2A , where the exemplary connection apparatus is engaged, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 3 is an isometric view of an exemplary facing anchor configuration, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 4A is a side view depicting an exemplary connection of the facing anchor assembly to a facing, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 5A is an isometric view of an exemplary facing anchor configuration, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 5B is a side view the exemplary facing anchor configuration depicted in FIG. 5A .
- FIG. 6A is an isometric view of the exemplary facing anchor assembly of FIG. 1 with an exemplary connection apparatus, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 6B is a side view of the exemplary facing anchor assembly of FIG. 6A .
- FIG. 6C is an isometric view of the exemplary facing anchor assembly of FIG. 6A coupled to a facing, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 6D is an isometric view of the exemplary facing anchor assembly of FIG. 6A coupled to a facing, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 7A is a side view of an exemplary mechanically stabilized earth structure system, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 7B is an isometric view of an exemplary wire facing used in the system shown in FIG. 7A , according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 8A is an isometric view of an exemplary connection device used to couple a soil reinforcing element to a wire facing, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 8B is a plan view of the connection device shown in FIG. 8A .
- FIG. 8C is an exploded side view of the connection device shown in FIG. 8A and the system shown in FIG. 7A , according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 8D is a side view of another exemplary mechanically stabilized earth structure system, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 8E is a side view of another exemplary mechanically stabilized earth structure system, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure.
- first and second features are formed in direct contact
- additional features may be formed interposing the first and second features, such that the first and second features may not be in direct contact.
- exemplary embodiments presented below may be combined in any combination of ways, i.e., any element from one exemplary embodiment may be used in any other exemplary embodiment, without departing from the scope of the disclosure.
- the facing anchor assembly 100 may include a pair of plates 102 that can be horizontally-disposed when in exemplary operation.
- Each plate 102 may be made of carbon steel, such as a low alloy steel, but may also be manufactured from other high-strength materials exhibiting similar strength characteristics, such as other metals, ceramics or high-strength plastics.
- each plate 102 may have a vertically-disposed tab 104 at one end and define a trough 105 at the other end.
- each plate 102 Interposed between the tab 104 and the trough 105 of each plate 102 may be at least two longitudinally-offset transverse protrusions 106 . At least one coupling perforation 108 located between the transverse protrusions 106 can be defined in each plate 102 . Moreover, at least one facing perforation 110 may be defined on each tab 104 and at least one plate perforation 112 may be defined between the tab 104 and the transverse protrusion 106 closest to the tab 104 .
- the facing anchor assembly 100 may be configured to receive and secure a soil reinforcing element 114 ( FIGS. 1B and 1C ).
- An exemplary soil reinforcing element 114 may encompass a welded wire grid having at least two longitudinal wires 116 disposed substantially parallel to each other, and a series of transverse wires 118 welded or otherwise attached to the longitudinal wires 116 in a generally perpendicular fashion.
- the spacing between each longitudinal wire 116 may be about 2 in. to about 4 in., while the spacing between each transverse wire 118 may be about 6 in.
- the particular spacing and configuration of the longitudinal wires 116 and transverse wires 118 may vary to accommodate an assortment of MSE applications without departing from the scope of the disclosure.
- a first transverse wire 118 a and a second transverse wire 118 b may be captured and seated within the longitudinally-offset transverse protrusions 106 of at least one plate 102 .
- the first and second transverse wires 118 a,b may be located on the underside or opposite side of the soil reinforcing element 114 , thereby capturing and seating the transverse wires 118 a,b in the transverse protrusions 106 of the opposing plate 102 .
- yet other exemplary embodiments may include soil reinforcing elements 114 with transverse wires 118 attached to both the top and the bottom portions of the longitudinal wires 116 , thereby seating transverse wires 118 in all or at least one of each transverse protrusion 106 of each plate 102 .
- each plate 102 may be used to secure one or more transverse wires 118 within the transverse protrusions 106 , thereby generally securing the soil reinforcing element 114 to the plates 102 .
- a nut 120 and bolt 122 assembly including washers 124 disposed on either side, may be used to tighten down on the soil reinforcing element 114 .
- tightening the nut 120 and bolt 122 assembly may effectively prevent the removal of the first and second transverse wires 118 a,b from the transverse protrusions 106 of at least one plate 102 . This may also serve to clamp or otherwise secure the longitudinal wires 116 between the two plates 102 , thereby creating a frictional or biasing engagement therebetween.
- securing the first and second transverse wires 118 a,b within the transverse protrusions 106 may equally distribute shear stresses along the length of the transverse wires 118 a,b , instead of focusing shear forces at a singular weld point.
- clamping the longitudinal wires 116 between the plates 102 may distribute tensile forces between each longitudinal wire 116 , instead of relying on a single wire during shifting of the MSE structure.
- the exemplary facing anchor assembly 100 may be used to secure a facing 126 to an earthen formation 128 .
- the earthen formation 128 may encompass an MSE structure having a plurality of soil reinforcing elements 114 extending horizontally into the earthen formation 128 to add tensile capacity thereto.
- the facing 126 may generally define an exposed face (not shown) and a back face 130 .
- the exposed face may encompass a decorative architectural facing and the back face 130 may be located adjacent the earthen formation 128 .
- the facing 126 may consist of individual precast concrete panels or, alternatively, a plurality of interlocking precast concrete modules or wall members that are assembled into interlocking relationship.
- the precast concrete panels may be replaced with a uniform, unbroken expanse of concrete or the like which may be poured on site.
- a portion of the facing anchor assembly 100 may be cast directly into the facing 126 to secure the assembly 100 against removal.
- the tabs 104 of each plate 102 may be part of the portion cast into the facing 126 and may serve to provide rigidity and stability to the resulting connection.
- the plates 102 may be cast into the facing 126 so as to be vertically-offset from each other and define a gap adapted to accommodate the receipt of a soil reinforcing element 114 . In operation, the gap defined between adjacent plates 102 may generally flex to allow entry of a soil reinforcing element 114 .
- the plates 102 may not be cast into the facing 126 , but may be bolted, or otherwise attached, directly to the back face 130 .
- holes may be drilled into the back face 130 of the concrete facing 126 to correspond to the facing perforations 110 defined on each tab 104 .
- a bolt and washer assembly (not shown), or other connective means, may be used to secure the plates to the back face 130 .
- a connector pin 202 such as in the shape of a “U,” may be inserted into the respective troughs 105 defined on each plate 102 , thereby holding the ends of the plates 102 together and securing the first and second transverse wires 118 a,b against removal from the transverse protrusions 106 .
- a connector pin 202 such as in the shape of a “U”
- FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrated is another exemplary embodiment of securing a soil reinforcing element 114 to the facing anchor assembly 100 .
- a connector pin 202 such as in the shape of a “U,” may be inserted into the respective troughs 105 defined on each plate 102 , thereby holding the ends of the plates 102 together and securing the first and second transverse wires 118 a,b against removal from the transverse protrusions 106 .
- the connector pin 202 may be made of steel bar-stock or a bent length of rebar or molded from high strength plastics or other durable materials.
- each leg of the U-shaped connector pin 202 may include a small bead 204 (only one shown) disposed on the inside portion of the end of each leg.
- the bead 204 may include a small globule of welded or other durable material and may be configured to prevent removal of the connector pin 202 once engaged with the troughs 105 .
- the U-shaped connector pin 202 may have at least one end that is cold-formed to create a knob (not shown) configured to prevent the removal of the connector pin 202 once engaged with the troughs 105 .
- the nut 120 and bolt 122 assembly would not be required in this exemplary embodiment, thus reducing the number of loose parts needed to make a secure connection.
- the facing anchor assembly 300 may include a pair of plates 302 that can be horizontally-disposed during operation. Similar to the facing anchor assembly 100 described above, each plate 302 may include a vertically-disposed tab 304 having at least one plate perforation 306 defined therein that may be used to directly couple to the back face 130 of a facing 126 . Each plate 302 may also include a single, longitudinally-offset transverse protrusion 308 for receiving and seating a first transverse wire 118 a attached or otherwise coupled to the longitudinal wires 116 of a soil reinforcing element 114 .
- the transverse protrusion 308 of the top plate 302 may receive the first transverse wire 118 a , but in other exemplary applications the transverse wires 118 may be located on the underside of the soil reinforcing element 114 , thus the first transverse wire 118 a may be captured and seated within the transverse protrusions 308 of the opposing bottom plate 302 .
- other applications may include soil reinforcing elements 114 with transverse wires 118 attached to both the top and the bottom of the longitudinal wires 116 , thereby seating transverse wires 118 in the transverse protrusion 308 of each plate 302 .
- a coupling assembly 310 can be used to clamp the longitudinal wires 116 between the plates 302 , thereby creating a frictional or biasing engagement configured to prevent the removal of the soil reinforcing element 114 from the facing anchor assembly 300 . Clamping the longitudinal wires 116 between the plates 302 may also securely seat the first transverse wire 118 a within the transverse protrusion 308 , thereby distributing shear stresses equally along the length of the transverse wire 118 a and further preventing the removal of the first transverse wire 118 a from the facing anchor assembly 300 .
- FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrated is an exemplary configuration of connecting at least two soil reinforcing elements 114 to a corresponding exemplary facing anchor assembly 100 , as generally described herein.
- FIG. 4A depicts a side view of a connection configuration including two soil reinforcing elements 114 vertically-offset from each other.
- FIG. 4B depicts a top view of a connection configuration including two soil reinforcing elements 114 horizontally-offset from each other.
- the offset distance between each soil reinforcing element connection may depend on the specific application or stress requirements of the overall MSE structure.
- the plates 102 of the facing anchor assembly 100 can be cast into the back face 130 of the facing 126 , similar to the embodiment discussed above with reference to FIG. 1C . In other embodiments, the plates 102 may be bolted directly to the back face 130 , as also discussed above.
- the facing 126 may include a concrete panel or wall having reinforcing 402 cast therein to provide added reinforcement and tensile strength to the facing 126 .
- the reinforcing 402 can include a plurality of transverse members 404 and a plurality of horizontal members 406 , thereby forming a grid.
- the reinforcing 402 may be cast into the facing 126 in front of the tabs 104 of the plates 102 to provide additional lateral strength for the anchor assembly 100 by adding supplementary resistance to being pulled out of the concrete.
- a swiveling facing anchor 500 may provide a connection for a soil reinforcing element 114 that is capable of swiveling in a horizontal plane.
- Employing the exemplary swiveling facing anchor 500 may prove advantageous in areas where a vertical obstruction, such as a drainage pipe, catch basin, bridge pile, or bridge pier may be encountered in the MSE backfill field. To avoid such obstructions, the soil reinforcing element 114 may simply be swiveled out of range of the obstruction, yet maintain a secure connection.
- the swiveling facing anchor 500 may generally include the facing anchor assembly 100 , as described above, but may also include a swivel plate 502 and a retainer plate 508 .
- the swivel plate 502 may have a first transverse protrusion 504 and a second transverse protrusion 506 for seating and securing first and second transverse wires 118 a,b .
- other embodiments may include a swivel plate 502 having more or less transverse protrusions 506 to fit a variety of applications.
- the retainer plate 508 may include a first elevation 507 at a first end bound in conjunction with the facing anchor assembly 100 , and a second elevation 509 at a second end bound in conjunction with the swivel plate 502 .
- the retainer plate 508 may be configured to provide a binding surface where the longitudinal wires 116 of the soil reinforcing element 114 can be clamped into biasing engagement with swivel plate 502 .
- the retainer plate 508 may simply include the second elevation 509 to provide the binding or biasing engagement to the longitudinal wires 116 , without departing from the scope of the disclosure.
- the swiveling facing anchor may further include a first coupling assembly 510 and a second coupling assembly 518 .
- the first coupling assembly 510 may be used to couple the facing anchor assembly 100 to both the swivel plate 502 and the retainer plate 508 .
- the first coupling assembly 510 may include a bolt 511 and nut 516 assembly having a washer disposed at each end, but may also include other means of mechanical coupling without departing from the scope of the disclosure.
- the bolt 511 may be extended through the coupling perforation 108 defined in each plate 102 and also extended through separate concentric perforations 512 , 514 defined in both the swivel plate 502 and the retainer plate 508 , respectively.
- the nut 516 may be tightened onto the bolt 511 to secure the swivel plate 502 and the retainer plate 508 from removal.
- the second coupling assembly 518 may be substantially similar to the first coupling assembly 510 and may be used to couple the swivel plate 502 to the retainer plate 508 , and also may serve to seat the first and second transverse wires 118 a,b within the first and second transverse protrusions 504 , 506 , respectively. As described above, coupling the swivel plate 502 to the retainer plate 508 may also provide a binding engagement to the longitudinal wires 116 of the soil reinforcing element 114 .
- a bolt 520 of the second coupling assembly 518 may be extended through a coupling perforation 522 defined in the swivel plate 502 , and also extended through a retainer perforation 524 defined in the retainer plate 508 .
- a nut 526 may be tightened onto the bolt 520 to effectively clamp down on the longitudinal wires 116 , thereby creating a frictional engagement configured to prevent the removal of the soil reinforcing element 114 .
- the soil reinforcing element 114 may be pivoted within the earthen formation 128 to avoid any vertical obstructions present therein, as noted above.
- the soil reinforcing element 114 including the swivel plate 502 and retainer plate 508 coupled thereto, may rotate or swivel about an axis X and rotatingly translate along a horizontal plane in the direction of arrow A.
- the first coupling assembly 510 may be fully tightened for permanent use.
- FIGS. 6A-6D illustrated is another exemplary facing anchor 600 that may be used to secure a soil reinforcing element 114 to a facing 602 .
- the facing 602 may include a vertically-disposed, welded wire grid having a series of vertical wires 604 welded or otherwise coupled to a series of horizontal wires 606 .
- the facing 602 may be secured to an earthen formation (not shown), such as layers of backfill in an MSE structure, via a connection between the facing anchor 600 and the soil reinforcing elements 114 , and configured to aid in the prevention of the loosening or raveling of the soil between successive layers of soil reinforcing.
- the exemplary facing anchor 600 may be a device capable of receiving and securely seating one or more transverse wires 118 of the soil reinforcing element 114 , and simultaneously connecting the soil reinforcing element 114 to at least one horizontal wire 606 ( FIGS. 6C and 6D ) of the facing 602 .
- the facing anchor 600 may include first and second sides 608 , 610 connected by a connecting member 612 at one end.
- the connecting member 612 may include a 180° bend or turn in the structure of the facing anchor 600 , thereby defining a gap 611 ( FIG. 6B ) between the first and second sides 608 , 610 .
- the gap 611 may be configured to accommodate at least one transverse wire 118 coupled to the longitudinal wires 116 .
- the connecting member 612 may also define a vertical slot 613 , as will be further discussed below.
- Each side 608 , 610 may define two transverse protrusions 614 . However, other exemplary embodiments may define more or less than two transverse protrusions 614 to thereby fit other applications.
- a coupling perforation 616 and a trough 618 may also be defined on each side 608 , 610 . In embodiments having two transverse protrusions 614 , as illustrated, the coupling perforation 616 of each side 608 , 610 may be concentrically defined therebetween.
- the first and second sides 608 , 610 of the facing anchor 600 can be mirror images of each other.
- the facing anchor 600 may be coupled to a soil reinforcing element 114 and the facing 602 as described below.
- the connecting member 612 of the facing anchor 600 may be configured to receive, or be hooked on a horizontal wire 606 of the facing 602 between two adjacent vertical wires 604 .
- a pin 619 may be inserted into the vertical slot 613 defined in the connecting member 612 .
- the pin 619 may provide a biasing engagement against both the horizontal wire 606 and the vertical slot 613 of the facing anchor 600 .
- a coupling assembly 620 may be used to secure a first and a second transverse wire 118 a,b within the transverse protrusions 614 of at least one side 608 , 610 of the facing anchor 600 .
- Other embodiments may seat and secure more or less than two transverse wires 118 to the facing anchor 600 , including having transverse wires 118 seated and secured within transverse protrusions 614 of both sides 608 , 610 , or any combination thereof.
- the coupling assembly 620 may include a bolt 621 and nut 622 assembly having a washer disposed at each end, but may also include other means of mechanical coupling without departing from the scope of the disclosure.
- the bolt 621 may be extended through the coupling perforations 616 of each side 608 , 610 and the nut 622 may be tightened onto the end of the bolt 621 to clamp down on the longitudinal wires 116 and prevent the removal of the soil reinforcing element 114 .
- FIG. 6D another exemplary method of coupling the facing anchor 600 to a facing 602 is depicted.
- a connector pin 624 such as in the shape of a “U,” may be used to secure the sides 608 , 610 of the facing anchor 600 together, thereby further securing the first and second transverse wires 118 a,b against removal from the transverse protrusions 614 .
- the connector pin 624 may be inserted laterally into the troughs 618 defined on each side 608 , 610 of the facing anchor 600 .
- the connector pin 624 may include a small bead 626 disposed on the inside portion of each leg of the connector pin 624 .
- the bead 626 may include a small globule of welded material and may be configured to prevent removal of the connector pin 624 once in place.
- FIG. 7A illustrates a side view of an exemplary system 700 of constructing an MSE structure to a desired height.
- the system 700 can be characterized as one or more levels or lifts, such as a first lift 702 a being generally disposed below a second lift 702 b . While only two lifts 702 a,b are shown in FIG. 7A , it will be appreciated that any number of lifts may be used to fit a particular application and reach a desired height for the MSE structure.
- the second lift 702 b may be stacked atop a mass of backfill 704 disposed upon or otherwise added to a particular height with respect to the first lift 702 a.
- Each lift 702 a,b may include a wire facing 706 having one or more soil reinforcing elements 708 coupled thereto. Similar to the soil reinforcing element 114 described above, the soil reinforcing element 708 , as shown in FIGS. 7 A and 8 A- 8 C, may include a wire grid having at least two longitudinal wires 116 disposed substantially parallel to each other, and a series of transverse wires 118 welded or otherwise attached to the longitudinal wires 116 in a generally perpendicular fashion. Each longitudinal wire 116 , however, may include an upwardly-extending extension 709 disposed at its lead end. In one embodiment, each extension 709 may be disposed at about 90° with respect to the longitudinal wires 116 . In other embodiments, however, each extension 709 may be configured at greater or less than 90° with respect to the longitudinal wires 116 .
- One or more struts 710 may also be coupled to each wire facing 706 and adapted to maintain the wire facing 706 in a predetermined angular configuration.
- the backfill 704 may be sequentially added to the system 700 in a plurality of layers configured to cover the soil reinforcing elements 708 , thereby providing tensile strength to each wire facing 706 and preventing their outward displacement.
- FIG. 7B illustrates a back face isometric view of an exemplary wire facing 706 as used in the system 700 .
- Each wire facing 706 of the system 700 may be fabricated from several lengths of cold-drawn wire welded and arranged into a mesh panel.
- the wire mesh panel can then be folded or otherwise shaped to form a substantially L-shaped assembly including a horizontal element 712 and a vertical facing 714 , or first and second vertical facings 714 a and 714 b , respectively, as shown in FIGS. 7A and 7C .
- the horizontal element 712 may include a plurality of horizontal wires 716 welded or otherwise attached to one or more cross wires 718 , such as an initial wire 718 a , a terminal wire 718 b , and a median wire 718 c .
- the initial wire 718 a may be disposed adjacent to and directly behind the vertical facing 714 , thereby being positioned inside the MSE structure.
- the terminal wire 718 b may be disposed at or near the distal ends of the horizontal wires 716 .
- the median wire 718 c may be welded or otherwise coupled to the horizontal wires 716 and disposed laterally between the initial and terminal wires 718 a,b .
- any number of cross wires 718 can be employed without departing from the scope of the disclosure.
- the median wire 718 c may be excluded from the system 700 .
- the vertical facing 714 can include a plurality of vertical wires 720 extending vertically with reference to the horizontal element 712 and laterally-spaced from each other.
- the vertical wires 720 may be vertically-extending extensions of the horizontal wires 716 .
- the vertical facing 714 may also include a plurality of facing cross wires 722 vertically-offset from each other and welded or otherwise attached to the vertical wires 720 .
- a top-most cross wire 724 may be vertically-offset from the last facing cross wire 722 and also attached to the vertical wires 720 in like manner.
- each vertical wire 720 may be separated by a distance of about 4 inches on center from adjacent vertical wires 720 , and the facing cross wires 722 may also be separated from each other by a distance of about 4 inches on center, thereby generating a grid-like facing composed of a plurality of square voids having a 4′′ ⁇ 4′′ dimension.
- the spacing between adjacent wires 720 , 722 can be varied to more or less than 4 inches to suit varying applications and the spacing need not be equidistant.
- the top-most cross wire 724 may be vertically-offset from the last facing cross wire 722 by a distance X, as will be discussed in more detail below.
- the wire facing 706 may further include a plurality of connector leads 726 a - g extending from the horizontal element 712 and up the vertical facing 714 .
- each connector lead 726 a - g may include a pair of horizontal wires 716 (or vertical wires 720 , if taken from the frame of reference of the vertical facing 714 ) laterally-offset from each other by a short distance.
- the short distance can vary depending on the particular application, but may generally include about a one inch separation.
- each connector lead 726 a - g may be equidistantly-spaced from each other along the horizontal element 712 and/or vertical facing 714 , and configured to provide a visual indicator to an installer as to where a soil reinforcing element 708 may be properly attached, as will be described in greater detail below.
- each connector lead 726 a - g may be spaced from each other by about 12 inches on center. As can be appreciated, however, such relative distances may vary to suit particular applications.
- one or more struts 710 may be operatively coupled to the wire facing 706 .
- the struts 710 may be coupled to both the vertical facing 714 and the horizontal element 712 at appropriate locations.
- Each strut 710 may be prefabricated with or include a strut connector 728 disposed at each end of the strut 710 and configured to fasten or otherwise attach the struts 710 to both the horizontal element 712 and the vertical facing 714 .
- the strut connector 728 may include a hook that is bent about 180° back upon itself.
- the strut connector 728 may include a wire loop disposed at each end of the struts 710 that can be manipulated, clipped, or otherwise tied to both the horizontal element 712 and the vertical facing 714 .
- the struts 710 can be coupled to the horizontal element 712 and the vertical facing 714 by any practicable method or device known in the art.
- Each strut 710 may be coupled at one end to at least one facing cross wire 722 and at the other end to the terminal wire 718 b .
- one or more struts 710 may be coupled to the median wire 718 c instead of the terminal wire 718 b , without departing from the scope of the disclosure.
- each strut 710 may be coupled to the wire facing 706 in general alignment with a corresponding connector lead 726 a - g .
- the struts 710 can be connected at any location along the respective axial lengths of any facing cross wire 722 and terminal wire 718 b , without departing from the scope of the disclosure.
- the struts 710 may be coupled to a vertical wire 720 of the vertical facing 714 and/or a horizontal wire 716 of the horizontal element 712 , respectively, without departing from the scope of the disclosure.
- the struts 710 are generally coupled to the wire facing 706 before any backfill 704 ( FIG. 7A ) is added to the respective lift 702 a,b of the system 700 .
- the struts 710 may be adapted to prevent the vertical facing 714 from bending past a predetermined vertical angle.
- the struts. 710 may be configured to maintain the vertical facing 714 at or near about 90° with respect to the horizontal element 712 .
- the struts 710 can be fabricated to varying lengths or otherwise attached at varying locations along the wire facing 706 to maintain the vertical facing 714 at a variety of angles of orientation.
- the struts 710 may allow installers to walk on the backfill 704 of the MSE structure, tamp it, and compact it fully before adding a new layer or lift 702 .
- FIGS. 8A-8C illustrated is various views of an exemplary connector or connection device 730 as used in the system 700 for coupling the soil reinforcing element 708 to the wire facing 706 , and in particular to the vertical facings 714 a and 714 b of the first and second lifts 702 a and 702 b , respectively.
- FIG. 8A is an isometric view of the connection device 730
- FIG. 8B is a plan view of the connection device 730
- FIG. 8C is an exploded cross-sectional side view of the connection device 730 .
- connection device 730 is shown connecting first and second vertical facings 714 a,b , it will be appreciated that the connection device 730 may equally be used to couple a soil reinforcing element 708 to a single vertical facing 714 , as is the case with the first lift 702 a depicted in FIG. 7A and in both lifts 102 a,b in FIG. 80 described below.
- connection device 730 may include at least one bearing plate 732 having one or more longitudinal protrusions 740 configured to receive or otherwise seat the upwardly-extending extensions 709 of the soil reinforcing element 708 when installed in the system 700 .
- the longitudinal protrusions 740 may serve to centralize the soil reinforcing element 708 with respect to the bearing plate 732 and prevent the soil reinforcing element 708 from shifting or otherwise moving from side to side. This may prove advantageous during settling and/or thermal contraction and expansion of the MSE structure where the soil reinforcing element 708 may otherwise become dislodged from the system 700 and thereby weaken the structural integrity of the MSE structure.
- the bearing plate 732 may be configured to accommodate or otherwise receive a rod 734 , such as a threaded rod, via a perforation (not shown) centrally-defined within the bearing plate 732 .
- the rod 734 may be a bolt, but may also be a length of rebar or other rigid material.
- the rod 734 may be configured to extend through the perforation (not shown) of the bearing plate 732 and further through any adjacent vertical facings 714 , such as vertical facings 714 a,b , as best seen in FIG. 8C . Once extended through the bearing plate 732 and adjacent vertical facings 714 a,b , the rod 734 may be secured from removal by threading a nut 736 or similar device onto its end.
- the nut 736 may be omitted and the rod 734 may be bent to one side, thereby preventing its removal.
- a washer 738 may be interposed between the nut 736 and the vertical facings 714 a,b . As the nut 736 is tightened, the washer 738 may be forced into engagement with the outside surface of the first vertical facing 714 a.
- connection device 730 may be coupled to the vertical facings 714 a,b at a connector lead 726 a - g , such as connector lead 726 a as shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B .
- the washer 738 may be appropriately sized so as to properly engage the outside surface of the connector lead 726 a .
- the connection device 730 may be coupled at any location of the vertical facing 714 , for example, between adjacent vertical wires 720 ( FIG. 7B ).
- a larger washer 738 or similar device is contemplated in order to adequately engage each vertical wire 720 and secure the soil reinforcing element 708 from removal. Consequently, any size washer 738 may be used to suit a particular application so as to adequately engage the vertical facing 714 .
- the first lift 702 a may be disposed substantially below the second lift 702 b , with its vertical facing 714 a being placed laterally in front of or adjacent the vertical facing 714 b of the second lift 702 b .
- Backfill 704 may be added to at least a portion of the first lift 702 a to a first height or distance Y above the last facing cross wire 722 .
- the second lift 702 b may be disposed on top of the backfill 704 , thereby being placed a distance Y above the last facing cross wire 722 .
- the first height or distance Y can be any distance or height less than the distance X, or the vertically-offset distance between the last facing cross wire 722 and the top-most cross wire 724 .
- the distance Y can be up to but less than the distance X, thereby providing backfill 704 up to but just below the top-most cross wire 724 of the vertical facing 714 a.
- connection device 730 may be configured to not only couple a soil reinforcing element 708 to a single vertical facing 714 or a pair of vertical facings 714 a,b , but it may also facilitate a sliding or slidable engagement between adjacent lifts 702 a and 702 b .
- the nut 736 may be “finger-tightened,” or tightened so as to nonetheless allow vertical movement of either the first or second lift 702 a,b with respect to each other.
- Tightening the nut 736 may bring the bearing plate 732 and/or upwardly-extending extensions 709 into engagement with the vertical facing 714 b of the second lift 702 b , having the soil reinforcing element 708 resting on or at least adjacent the initial wire 718 a . Tightening the nut 736 may also bring the washer 738 into engagement with the vertical facing 714 a of the first lift 702 a , as discussed above. In at least one embodiment, tightening the nut 736 may further bring the top-most cross wire 724 of the first vertical facing 714 a into engagement with the second vertical facing 714 b and thereby further prevent the outward displacement of the second vertical facing 714 b .
- the top-most cross wire 724 is not necessarily brought into contact with the second vertical facing 714 b , but the second vertical facing 714 b may be held in its angular configuration by the strut 118 and connection device 120 disposed on the last facing cross wire 722 .
- the distance Y can be characterized as a distance of settlement over which the second lift 702 b may be able to traverse without binding on the first lift 702 a and thereby weakening the structural integrity of the MSE system.
- the soil reinforcing elements 708 may be attached to the vertical facings 714 a,b at multiple locations and at any vertical height relative to the respective horizontal elements 712 a,b .
- one or more soil reinforcing elements 708 may be vertically-offset from the horizontal elements 712 a,b a distance Q.
- a first quantity of backfill 704 a may be placed on the first horizontal element 712 a of the first lift 702 a and compacted to a first height Q above the first horizontal element 712 a .
- a soil reinforcing element 708 may then be placed on top of the first quantity of backfill 704 a and coupled or otherwise attached to the first vertical facing 714 a using the connection device 730 as generally described above.
- a second quantity of backfill 704 b may then be placed atop the first quantity of backfill 704 a to a second height Y above the last facing cross wire 722 .
- the second height Y can be below the top-most cross wire 724 to facilitate the connection of another soil reinforcing element 708 to the first vertical facing 714 a .
- the second height Y may provide the soil reinforcing element 708 a settling distance. It will be appreciated, however, that a soil reinforcing element 708 is not required to be placed atop the second quantity of backfill 704 b .
- the soil reinforcing element 708 may be omitted and the second lift 702 b may be placed directly on top of the second quantity of backfill 704 b , without departing from the scope of the disclosure. It will further be appreciated, that the soil reinforcing element 708 placed atop the first quantity of backfill 704 a may also be omitted, and instead the first and second quantities of backfill 704 a,b may be combined into a single mass, as shown in FIG. 7A .
- the second height Y of the second quantity of backfill 704 b may extend to the top-most cross wire 724 , or otherwise be level therewith once compacted. Accordingly, the second lift 702 b may be placed directly on top of the first lift 702 a by engaging the second quantity of backfill 704 b . While not shown, it will be appreciated that a soil reinforcing element 708 may be placed within the second quantity of backfill 704 b , as generally described with reference to FIG. 8D .
- the second lift 702 b may be constructed substantially similar to the first lift 702 a , but may also include one or more struts 710 as described above. While not specifically shown in FIG. 8D , one or more struts 710 may also be added to the first lift 702 a , without departing from the disclosure. In one or more embodiments, the strut 710 may be laterally-offset (e.g., laterally into or out of the page in FIG. 8D ) from the soil reinforcing elements 708 . In other embodiments, the strut 710 may be interposed between the longitudinal wires 116 of the soil reinforcing elements 708 , as shown in FIG. 8B .
- a third quantity of backfill 704 c may be placed on the second horizontal element 712 b of the second lift 702 b to a third height Q above the second horizontal element 712 b .
- the first and third height Q may be substantially similar, but may otherwise differ, depending on the application.
- the fourth quantity of backfill 704 d may be added atop the third quantity of backfill 704 c to a fourth height Y above the last facing cross wire 722 of the second vertical facing 714 b .
- the second and fourth height Y may be substantially similar, but may otherwise differ, depending on the application.
- the second vertical facing 714 b of the second lift 702 b may be laterally-offset from the first vertical facing 714 a of the first lift by a distance Z, thereby forming a terraced wall.
- the distance Z may vary depending on the application.
- the second lift 702 b may be able to settle the second distance Y, as described above. Where the soil reinforcing element 708 disposed atop the second quantity of backfill 704 b is omitted, the second lift 702 b may be able to settle a distance greater than the second distance Y.
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Environmental & Geological Engineering (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- General Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Mining & Mineral Resources (AREA)
- Paleontology (AREA)
- Civil Engineering (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- Piles And Underground Anchors (AREA)
- Coupling Device And Connection With Printed Circuit (AREA)
Abstract
A system and method of constructing a mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) structure. A wire facing is composed of horizontal and vertical elements. A soil reinforcing element has a plurality of transverse wires coupled to at least two longitudinal wires having lead ends that upwardly-extend. A bearing plate includes one or more longitudinal protrusions configured to receive and seat the upwardly extending lead ends and couple the soil reinforcing element to the wire facing, and in particular to the vertical element. Multiple systems can be characterized as lifts and erected one atop the other to a desired MSE structure height.
Description
- The present application is a continuation-in-part of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/684,479, entitled “Wave Anchor Soil Reinforcing Connector and Method,” which was filed on Jan. 8, 2010, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
- Retaining wall structures that use horizontally positioned soil inclusions to reinforce an earth mass in combination with a facing element are referred to as Mechanically Stabilized Earth (MSE) structures. MSE structures can be used for various applications including retaining walls, bridge abutments, dams, seawalls, and dikes.
- The basic MSE technology is a repetitive process where layers of backfill and horizontally placed soil reinforcing elements are positioned one atop the other until a desired height of the earthen structure is achieved. Typically, grid-like steel mats or welded wire mesh are used as earthen reinforcement elements. In most applications, the reinforcing mats consist of parallel transversely extending wires welded to parallel longitudinally extending wires, thus forming a grid-like mat or structure. Backfill material and the soil reinforcing mats are combined and compacted in series to form a solid earthen structure, taking the form of a standing earthen wall.
- In some instances, a substantially vertical wall, typically made of concrete or steel facing panels, may then be constructed a short distance from the standing earthen wall. The vertical wall not only serves as decorative architecture, but also prevents erosion at the face of the earthen wall. The soil reinforcing mats extending from the compacted backfill may then be attached directly to the back face of the vertical wall in a variety of configurations. To facilitate the connection to the earthen formation, the vertical wall will frequently include a plurality of “facing anchors” either cast into or attached somehow to the back face of the wall at predetermined and/or spaced-apart locations. Each facing anchor is typically positioned so as to correspond with and couple directly to the end of a soil reinforcing mat. Via this attachment, outward movement and shifting of the vertical wall is significantly reduced.
- Although there are several methods of attaching soil reinforcing elements to facing structures, it nonetheless remains desirable to find improved anchors and anchor-designs offering less expensive alternatives and greater resistance to shear forces inherent in such structures.
- Embodiments of the disclosure may provide a mechanically stabilized earth structure. The mechanically stabilized earth structure includes a wire facing having a bend formed therein to form a horizontal element and a vertical facing, the horizontal element having initial and terminal wires each coupled to a plurality of horizontal wires, and the vertical facing having a plurality of vertical wires coupled to a plurality of facing cross wires and a top-most cross wire. The mechanically stabilized earth structure also includes a soil reinforcing element having a plurality of transverse wires coupled to at least two longitudinal wires having upwardly-extending extensions, and a connection device having a bearing plate with one or more longitudinal protrusions configured to receive the upwardly-extending extensions, the connection device being configured to couple the soil reinforcing element to the vertical facing.
- Other embodiments of the disclosure may provide a mechanically stabilized earth structure. The mechanically stabilized earth structure includes a first lift which includes a first wire facing having a first horizontal element and a first vertical facing, the first horizontal element having initial and terminal wires coupled to a plurality of horizontal wires, and the first vertical facing having a plurality of vertical wires coupled to a plurality of facing cross wires including a last facing cross wire and a top-most cross wire vertically-disposed above the last facing cross wire. The first life also includes a first soil reinforcing element having a plurality of transverse wires coupled to at least two longitudinal wires having upwardly-extending extensions, and a first connection device having a first bearing plate with one or more longitudinal protrusions configured to receive the upwardly-extending extensions of the first soil reinforcing element, the first connection device being configured to couple the soil reinforcing element to the first vertical facing. The first life also includes backfill disposed on the first wire facing to a first height above the last facing cross wire of the first vertical facing. The mechanically stabilized earth structure also includes a second lift disposed on the backfill of the first lift, the second lift, which includes a second wire facing having a second horizontal element and a second vertical facing, and a second soil reinforcing element disposed on the second horizontal element and having a plurality of transverse wires coupled to at least two longitudinal wires having upwardly-extending extensions. The second lift also includes a second connection device having a second bearing plate with one or more longitudinal protrusions configured to receive the upwardly-extending extensions of the second soil reinforcing element, the second connection device being configured to couple the second soil reinforcing element to the first and second vertical facings.
- Other embodiments of the disclosure may also provide a method of constructing a mechanically stabilized earth structure. The method includes providing a first lift includes a first wire facing bent to form a first horizontal element and a first vertical facing, the first vertical facing having a plurality of vertical wires coupled to a plurality of facing cross wires including a last facing cross wire and a top-most cross wire vertically-disposed above the last facing cross wire. The method also includes placing a first quantity of backfill on the first lift to a first height above the first horizontal element, and coupling a first soil reinforcing element to the first vertical facing at the first height and on top of the first quantity of backfill. The method further includes placing a second quantity of backfill atop the first quantity of backfill and the first soil reinforcing element to a second height above the last facing cross wire of the first vertical facing, and disposing a second lift atop the first lift, the second lift includes a second wire facing bent to form a second horizontal element and a second vertical facing, the second vertical facing having a plurality of vertical wires coupled to a plurality of facing cross wires including a last facing cross wire and a top-most cross wire vertically-disposed above the last facing cross wire. The method also includes placing a third quantity of backfill on the second lift to a third height above the second horizontal element, and coupling a second soil reinforcing element to the second vertical facing at the third height and on top of the third quantity of backfill. The method further includes placing a fourth quantity of backfill atop the third quantity of backfill and the second soil reinforcing element to a fourth height above the last facing cross wire of the second vertical facing.
- The present disclosure is best understood from the following detailed description when read with the accompanying Figures. It is emphasized that, in accordance with the standard practice in the industry, various features are not drawn to scale. In fact, the dimensions of the various features may be arbitrarily increased or reduced for clarity of discussion.
-
FIG. 1A is an isometric view of an exemplary facing anchor assembly, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 1B is a side view of the assembly shown inFIG. 1A . -
FIG. 1C is an isometric view of the exemplary facing anchor assembly ofFIG. 1 connected to a soil reinforcing element and facing, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 2A is an isometric view of the exemplary facing anchor assembly ofFIG. 1 with an exemplary connection apparatus, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 2B is an isometric view of the assembly ofFIG. 2A , where the exemplary connection apparatus is engaged, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 3 is an isometric view of an exemplary facing anchor configuration, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 4A is a side view depicting an exemplary connection of the facing anchor assembly to a facing, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 5A is an isometric view of an exemplary facing anchor configuration, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 5B is a side view the exemplary facing anchor configuration depicted inFIG. 5A . -
FIG. 6A is an isometric view of the exemplary facing anchor assembly ofFIG. 1 with an exemplary connection apparatus, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 6B is a side view of the exemplary facing anchor assembly ofFIG. 6A . -
FIG. 6C is an isometric view of the exemplary facing anchor assembly ofFIG. 6A coupled to a facing, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 6D is an isometric view of the exemplary facing anchor assembly ofFIG. 6A coupled to a facing, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 7A is a side view of an exemplary mechanically stabilized earth structure system, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 7B is an isometric view of an exemplary wire facing used in the system shown inFIG. 7A , according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 8A is an isometric view of an exemplary connection device used to couple a soil reinforcing element to a wire facing, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 8B is a plan view of the connection device shown inFIG. 8A . -
FIG. 8C is an exploded side view of the connection device shown inFIG. 8A and the system shown inFIG. 7A , according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 8D is a side view of another exemplary mechanically stabilized earth structure system, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 8E is a side view of another exemplary mechanically stabilized earth structure system, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. - It is to be understood that the following disclosure describes several exemplary embodiments for implementing different features, structures, or functions of the invention. Exemplary embodiments of components, arrangements, and configurations are described below to simplify the present disclosure; however, these exemplary embodiments are provided merely as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, the present disclosure may repeat reference numerals and/or letters in the various exemplary embodiments and across the Figures provided herein. This repetition is for the purpose of simplicity and clarity and does not in itself dictate a relationship between the various exemplary embodiments and/or configurations discussed in the various Figures. Moreover, the formation of a first feature over or on a second feature in the description that follows may include embodiments in which the first and second features are formed in direct contact, and may also include embodiments in which additional features may be formed interposing the first and second features, such that the first and second features may not be in direct contact. Finally, the exemplary embodiments presented below may be combined in any combination of ways, i.e., any element from one exemplary embodiment may be used in any other exemplary embodiment, without departing from the scope of the disclosure.
- Additionally, certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, various entities may refer to the same component by different names, and as such, the naming convention for the elements described herein is not intended to limit the scope of the invention, unless otherwise specifically defined herein. Further, the naming convention used herein is not intended to distinguish between components that differ in name but not function. Additionally, in the following discussion and in the claims, the terms “including” and “comprising” are used in an open-ended fashion, and thus should be interpreted to mean “including, but not limited to.” All numerical values in this disclosure may be exact or approximate values unless otherwise specifically stated. Accordingly, various embodiments of the disclosure may deviate from the numbers, values, and ranges disclosed herein without departing from the intended scope. Furthermore, as it is used in the claims or specification, the term “or” is intended to encompass both exclusive and inclusive cases, i.e., “A or B” is intended to be synonymous with “at least one of A and B,” unless otherwise expressly specified herein.
- Referring to
FIGS. 1A-1C , illustrated is an exemplary facinganchor assembly 100 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In at least one embodiment, the facinganchor assembly 100 may include a pair ofplates 102 that can be horizontally-disposed when in exemplary operation. Eachplate 102 may be made of carbon steel, such as a low alloy steel, but may also be manufactured from other high-strength materials exhibiting similar strength characteristics, such as other metals, ceramics or high-strength plastics. Furthermore, eachplate 102 may have a vertically-disposedtab 104 at one end and define atrough 105 at the other end. Interposed between thetab 104 and thetrough 105 of eachplate 102 may be at least two longitudinally-offsettransverse protrusions 106. At least onecoupling perforation 108 located between thetransverse protrusions 106 can be defined in eachplate 102. Moreover, at least one facingperforation 110 may be defined on eachtab 104 and at least oneplate perforation 112 may be defined between thetab 104 and thetransverse protrusion 106 closest to thetab 104. - In one or more embodiments, the facing
anchor assembly 100 may be configured to receive and secure a soil reinforcing element 114 (FIGS. 1B and 1C ). An exemplarysoil reinforcing element 114 may encompass a welded wire grid having at least twolongitudinal wires 116 disposed substantially parallel to each other, and a series oftransverse wires 118 welded or otherwise attached to thelongitudinal wires 116 in a generally perpendicular fashion. In an exemplary embodiment, the spacing between eachlongitudinal wire 116 may be about 2 in. to about 4 in., while the spacing between eachtransverse wire 118 may be about 6 in. As can be appreciated, however, the particular spacing and configuration of thelongitudinal wires 116 andtransverse wires 118 may vary to accommodate an assortment of MSE applications without departing from the scope of the disclosure. - As illustrated in
FIGS. 1B and 1C , a firsttransverse wire 118 a and a secondtransverse wire 118 b may be captured and seated within the longitudinally-offsettransverse protrusions 106 of at least oneplate 102. In other exemplary embodiments, the first and secondtransverse wires 118 a,b may be located on the underside or opposite side of thesoil reinforcing element 114, thereby capturing and seating thetransverse wires 118 a,b in thetransverse protrusions 106 of the opposingplate 102. Moreover, yet other exemplary embodiments (not illustrated herein) may includesoil reinforcing elements 114 withtransverse wires 118 attached to both the top and the bottom portions of thelongitudinal wires 116, thereby seatingtransverse wires 118 in all or at least one of eachtransverse protrusion 106 of eachplate 102. - The
coupling perforations 108 of eachplate 102 may be used to secure one or moretransverse wires 118 within thetransverse protrusions 106, thereby generally securing thesoil reinforcing element 114 to theplates 102. For example, as illustrated inFIG. 1B , anut 120 and bolt 122 assembly, includingwashers 124 disposed on either side, may be used to tighten down on thesoil reinforcing element 114. In exemplary operation, tightening thenut 120 and bolt 122 assembly may effectively prevent the removal of the first and secondtransverse wires 118 a,b from thetransverse protrusions 106 of at least oneplate 102. This may also serve to clamp or otherwise secure thelongitudinal wires 116 between the twoplates 102, thereby creating a frictional or biasing engagement therebetween. - As can be appreciated, securing the first and second
transverse wires 118 a,b within thetransverse protrusions 106 may equally distribute shear stresses along the length of thetransverse wires 118 a,b, instead of focusing shear forces at a singular weld point. Moreover, clamping thelongitudinal wires 116 between theplates 102 may distribute tensile forces between eachlongitudinal wire 116, instead of relying on a single wire during shifting of the MSE structure. - Referring to
FIG. 1C , the exemplary facinganchor assembly 100 may be used to secure a facing 126 to anearthen formation 128. Theearthen formation 128 may encompass an MSE structure having a plurality ofsoil reinforcing elements 114 extending horizontally into theearthen formation 128 to add tensile capacity thereto. The facing 126 may generally define an exposed face (not shown) and aback face 130. The exposed face may encompass a decorative architectural facing and theback face 130 may be located adjacent theearthen formation 128. In one or more embodiments, the facing 126 may consist of individual precast concrete panels or, alternatively, a plurality of interlocking precast concrete modules or wall members that are assembled into interlocking relationship. In another embodiment, the precast concrete panels may be replaced with a uniform, unbroken expanse of concrete or the like which may be poured on site. - In at least one embodiment, a portion of the facing
anchor assembly 100, and more particularly theplates 102, may be cast directly into the facing 126 to secure theassembly 100 against removal. As illustrated, thetabs 104 of eachplate 102 may be part of the portion cast into the facing 126 and may serve to provide rigidity and stability to the resulting connection. Theplates 102 may be cast into the facing 126 so as to be vertically-offset from each other and define a gap adapted to accommodate the receipt of asoil reinforcing element 114. In operation, the gap defined betweenadjacent plates 102 may generally flex to allow entry of asoil reinforcing element 114. - In another exemplary embodiment, the
plates 102 may not be cast into the facing 126, but may be bolted, or otherwise attached, directly to theback face 130. For example, holes may be drilled into theback face 130 of the concrete facing 126 to correspond to the facingperforations 110 defined on eachtab 104. A bolt and washer assembly (not shown), or other connective means, may be used to secure the plates to theback face 130. - Referring now to
FIGS. 2A and 2B , illustrated is another exemplary embodiment of securing asoil reinforcing element 114 to the facinganchor assembly 100. As illustrated, aconnector pin 202, such as in the shape of a “U,” may be inserted into therespective troughs 105 defined on eachplate 102, thereby holding the ends of theplates 102 together and securing the first and secondtransverse wires 118 a,b against removal from thetransverse protrusions 106. As will be appreciated, describing the U-shaped pin as shown inFIGS. 2A and 2B is not meant to be limiting to the disclosure by any means, but instead any shape or type of pin or clasping mechanism may be used to hold the ends of theplates 102 together besides a U-shaped pin, without departing from the scope of the disclosure. In one or more embodiments, theconnector pin 202 may be made of steel bar-stock or a bent length of rebar or molded from high strength plastics or other durable materials. Furthermore, each leg of theU-shaped connector pin 202 may include a small bead 204 (only one shown) disposed on the inside portion of the end of each leg. In one or more embodiments, thebead 204 may include a small globule of welded or other durable material and may be configured to prevent removal of theconnector pin 202 once engaged with thetroughs 105. Further, theU-shaped connector pin 202 may have at least one end that is cold-formed to create a knob (not shown) configured to prevent the removal of theconnector pin 202 once engaged with thetroughs 105. As can be appreciated, thenut 120 and bolt 122 assembly would not be required in this exemplary embodiment, thus reducing the number of loose parts needed to make a secure connection. - Referring now to
FIG. 3 , illustrated is another exemplary embodiment of a facinganchor assembly 300, according to one or more embodiments of the disclosure. In at least one embodiment, the facinganchor assembly 300 may include a pair ofplates 302 that can be horizontally-disposed during operation. Similar to the facinganchor assembly 100 described above, eachplate 302 may include a vertically-disposedtab 304 having at least oneplate perforation 306 defined therein that may be used to directly couple to theback face 130 of a facing 126. Eachplate 302 may also include a single, longitudinally-offsettransverse protrusion 308 for receiving and seating a firsttransverse wire 118 a attached or otherwise coupled to thelongitudinal wires 116 of asoil reinforcing element 114. - As illustrated, the
transverse protrusion 308 of thetop plate 302 may receive the firsttransverse wire 118 a, but in other exemplary applications thetransverse wires 118 may be located on the underside of thesoil reinforcing element 114, thus the firsttransverse wire 118 a may be captured and seated within thetransverse protrusions 308 of the opposingbottom plate 302. Moreover, other applications (not specifically illustrated herein) may includesoil reinforcing elements 114 withtransverse wires 118 attached to both the top and the bottom of thelongitudinal wires 116, thereby seatingtransverse wires 118 in thetransverse protrusion 308 of eachplate 302. - A
coupling assembly 310 can be used to clamp thelongitudinal wires 116 between theplates 302, thereby creating a frictional or biasing engagement configured to prevent the removal of thesoil reinforcing element 114 from the facinganchor assembly 300. Clamping thelongitudinal wires 116 between theplates 302 may also securely seat the firsttransverse wire 118 a within thetransverse protrusion 308, thereby distributing shear stresses equally along the length of thetransverse wire 118 a and further preventing the removal of the firsttransverse wire 118 a from the facinganchor assembly 300. - Referring now to
FIGS. 4A and 4B , illustrated is an exemplary configuration of connecting at least twosoil reinforcing elements 114 to a corresponding exemplary facinganchor assembly 100, as generally described herein. Specifically,FIG. 4A depicts a side view of a connection configuration including twosoil reinforcing elements 114 vertically-offset from each other.FIG. 4B depicts a top view of a connection configuration including twosoil reinforcing elements 114 horizontally-offset from each other. As can be appreciated, the offset distance between each soil reinforcing element connection may depend on the specific application or stress requirements of the overall MSE structure. - In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the
plates 102 of the facinganchor assembly 100 can be cast into theback face 130 of the facing 126, similar to the embodiment discussed above with reference toFIG. 1C . In other embodiments, theplates 102 may be bolted directly to theback face 130, as also discussed above. In at least one embodiment, the facing 126 may include a concrete panel or wall having reinforcing 402 cast therein to provide added reinforcement and tensile strength to the facing 126. The reinforcing 402 can include a plurality oftransverse members 404 and a plurality ofhorizontal members 406, thereby forming a grid. Moreover, the reinforcing 402 may be cast into the facing 126 in front of thetabs 104 of theplates 102 to provide additional lateral strength for theanchor assembly 100 by adding supplementary resistance to being pulled out of the concrete. - Referring now to
FIGS. 5A and 5B , illustrated is an exemplary embodiment of a swiveling facinganchor 500 that may provide a connection for asoil reinforcing element 114 that is capable of swiveling in a horizontal plane. Employing the exemplaryswiveling facing anchor 500 may prove advantageous in areas where a vertical obstruction, such as a drainage pipe, catch basin, bridge pile, or bridge pier may be encountered in the MSE backfill field. To avoid such obstructions, thesoil reinforcing element 114 may simply be swiveled out of range of the obstruction, yet maintain a secure connection. - As illustrated, the swiveling facing
anchor 500 may generally include the facinganchor assembly 100, as described above, but may also include aswivel plate 502 and aretainer plate 508. Theswivel plate 502 may have a firsttransverse protrusion 504 and a secondtransverse protrusion 506 for seating and securing first and secondtransverse wires 118 a,b. As can be appreciated, other embodiments may include aswivel plate 502 having more or lesstransverse protrusions 506 to fit a variety of applications. Theretainer plate 508 may include afirst elevation 507 at a first end bound in conjunction with the facinganchor assembly 100, and asecond elevation 509 at a second end bound in conjunction with theswivel plate 502. In at least one embodiment, theretainer plate 508 may be configured to provide a binding surface where thelongitudinal wires 116 of thesoil reinforcing element 114 can be clamped into biasing engagement withswivel plate 502. In other exemplary embodiments, theretainer plate 508 may simply include thesecond elevation 509 to provide the binding or biasing engagement to thelongitudinal wires 116, without departing from the scope of the disclosure. - The swiveling facing anchor may further include a
first coupling assembly 510 and asecond coupling assembly 518. Thefirst coupling assembly 510 may be used to couple the facinganchor assembly 100 to both theswivel plate 502 and theretainer plate 508. In at least one embodiment, thefirst coupling assembly 510 may include abolt 511 andnut 516 assembly having a washer disposed at each end, but may also include other means of mechanical coupling without departing from the scope of the disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, thebolt 511 may be extended through thecoupling perforation 108 defined in eachplate 102 and also extended through separateconcentric perforations swivel plate 502 and theretainer plate 508, respectively. Thenut 516 may be tightened onto thebolt 511 to secure theswivel plate 502 and theretainer plate 508 from removal. - The
second coupling assembly 518 may be substantially similar to thefirst coupling assembly 510 and may be used to couple theswivel plate 502 to theretainer plate 508, and also may serve to seat the first and secondtransverse wires 118 a,b within the first and secondtransverse protrusions swivel plate 502 to theretainer plate 508 may also provide a binding engagement to thelongitudinal wires 116 of thesoil reinforcing element 114. Abolt 520 of thesecond coupling assembly 518 may be extended through acoupling perforation 522 defined in theswivel plate 502, and also extended through aretainer perforation 524 defined in theretainer plate 508. Anut 526 may be tightened onto thebolt 520 to effectively clamp down on thelongitudinal wires 116, thereby creating a frictional engagement configured to prevent the removal of thesoil reinforcing element 114. - Referring to
FIG. 5A , before completely tightening thefirst coupling assembly 510, thesoil reinforcing element 114 may be pivoted within theearthen formation 128 to avoid any vertical obstructions present therein, as noted above. For example, thesoil reinforcing element 114, including theswivel plate 502 andretainer plate 508 coupled thereto, may rotate or swivel about an axis X and rotatingly translate along a horizontal plane in the direction of arrow A. Once theelement 114 is positioned in an adequate location avoiding MSE mass obstructions, thefirst coupling assembly 510 may be fully tightened for permanent use. - Referring now to
FIGS. 6A-6D , illustrated is another exemplary facinganchor 600 that may be used to secure asoil reinforcing element 114 to a facing 602. The facing 602, as shown inFIGS. 6C and 6D , may include a vertically-disposed, welded wire grid having a series ofvertical wires 604 welded or otherwise coupled to a series ofhorizontal wires 606. The facing 602 may be secured to an earthen formation (not shown), such as layers of backfill in an MSE structure, via a connection between the facinganchor 600 and thesoil reinforcing elements 114, and configured to aid in the prevention of the loosening or raveling of the soil between successive layers of soil reinforcing. - In at least one embodiment, the exemplary facing
anchor 600 may be a device capable of receiving and securely seating one or moretransverse wires 118 of thesoil reinforcing element 114, and simultaneously connecting thesoil reinforcing element 114 to at least one horizontal wire 606 (FIGS. 6C and 6D ) of the facing 602. As illustrated, the facinganchor 600 may include first andsecond sides member 612 at one end. In one embodiment, the connectingmember 612 may include a 180° bend or turn in the structure of the facinganchor 600, thereby defining a gap 611 (FIG. 6B ) between the first andsecond sides gap 611 may be configured to accommodate at least onetransverse wire 118 coupled to thelongitudinal wires 116. Moreover, the connectingmember 612 may also define avertical slot 613, as will be further discussed below. - Each
side transverse protrusions 614. However, other exemplary embodiments may define more or less than twotransverse protrusions 614 to thereby fit other applications. Acoupling perforation 616 and atrough 618 may also be defined on eachside transverse protrusions 614, as illustrated, thecoupling perforation 616 of eachside second sides anchor 600 can be mirror images of each other. - Referring to
FIG. 6C , the facinganchor 600 may be coupled to asoil reinforcing element 114 and the facing 602 as described below. In at least one embodiment, the connectingmember 612 of the facinganchor 600 may be configured to receive, or be hooked on ahorizontal wire 606 of the facing 602 between two adjacentvertical wires 604. To secure the facinganchor 600 to thehorizontal wire 606, and prevent its removal therefrom, apin 619 may be inserted into thevertical slot 613 defined in the connectingmember 612. In at least one embodiment, thepin 619 may provide a biasing engagement against both thehorizontal wire 606 and thevertical slot 613 of the facinganchor 600. - Similar to the
coupling assemblies FIG. 6C ) may be used to secure a first and a secondtransverse wire 118 a,b within thetransverse protrusions 614 of at least oneside anchor 600. Other embodiments may seat and secure more or less than twotransverse wires 118 to the facinganchor 600, including havingtransverse wires 118 seated and secured withintransverse protrusions 614 of bothsides coupling assembly 620 may include abolt 621 andnut 622 assembly having a washer disposed at each end, but may also include other means of mechanical coupling without departing from the scope of the disclosure. In exemplary operation, thebolt 621 may be extended through thecoupling perforations 616 of eachside nut 622 may be tightened onto the end of thebolt 621 to clamp down on thelongitudinal wires 116 and prevent the removal of thesoil reinforcing element 114. - Referring to
FIG. 6D , another exemplary method of coupling the facinganchor 600 to a facing 602 is depicted. Similar to embodiments disclosed with reference toFIGS. 2A and 2B , aconnector pin 624, such as in the shape of a “U,” may used to secure thesides anchor 600 together, thereby further securing the first and secondtransverse wires 118 a,b against removal from thetransverse protrusions 614. Theconnector pin 624 may be inserted laterally into thetroughs 618 defined on eachside anchor 600. In at least one embodiment, theconnector pin 624 may include asmall bead 626 disposed on the inside portion of each leg of theconnector pin 624. In one or more embodiments, thebead 626 may include a small globule of welded material and may be configured to prevent removal of theconnector pin 624 once in place. - Referring now to
FIGS. 7A-7B ,FIG. 7A illustrates a side view of anexemplary system 700 of constructing an MSE structure to a desired height. Thesystem 700 can be characterized as one or more levels or lifts, such as afirst lift 702 a being generally disposed below asecond lift 702 b. While only twolifts 702 a,b are shown inFIG. 7A , it will be appreciated that any number of lifts may be used to fit a particular application and reach a desired height for the MSE structure. In one embodiment, thesecond lift 702 b may be stacked atop a mass ofbackfill 704 disposed upon or otherwise added to a particular height with respect to thefirst lift 702 a. - Each
lift 702 a,b may include a wire facing 706 having one or moresoil reinforcing elements 708 coupled thereto. Similar to thesoil reinforcing element 114 described above, thesoil reinforcing element 708, as shown in FIGS. 7A and 8A-8C, may include a wire grid having at least twolongitudinal wires 116 disposed substantially parallel to each other, and a series oftransverse wires 118 welded or otherwise attached to thelongitudinal wires 116 in a generally perpendicular fashion. Eachlongitudinal wire 116, however, may include an upwardly-extendingextension 709 disposed at its lead end. In one embodiment, eachextension 709 may be disposed at about 90° with respect to thelongitudinal wires 116. In other embodiments, however, eachextension 709 may be configured at greater or less than 90° with respect to thelongitudinal wires 116. - One or
more struts 710 may also be coupled to each wire facing 706 and adapted to maintain the wire facing 706 in a predetermined angular configuration. Thebackfill 704 may be sequentially added to thesystem 700 in a plurality of layers configured to cover thesoil reinforcing elements 708, thereby providing tensile strength to each wire facing 706 and preventing their outward displacement. -
FIG. 7B illustrates a back face isometric view of an exemplary wire facing 706 as used in thesystem 700. Each wire facing 706 of thesystem 700 may be fabricated from several lengths of cold-drawn wire welded and arranged into a mesh panel. The wire mesh panel can then be folded or otherwise shaped to form a substantially L-shaped assembly including ahorizontal element 712 and avertical facing 714, or first and secondvertical facings FIGS. 7A and 7C . Thehorizontal element 712 may include a plurality ofhorizontal wires 716 welded or otherwise attached to one or more cross wires 718, such as aninitial wire 718 a, aterminal wire 718 b, and amedian wire 718 c. Theinitial wire 718 a may be disposed adjacent to and directly behind thevertical facing 714, thereby being positioned inside the MSE structure. Theterminal wire 718 b may be disposed at or near the distal ends of thehorizontal wires 716. Themedian wire 718 c may be welded or otherwise coupled to thehorizontal wires 716 and disposed laterally between the initial andterminal wires 718 a,b. As can be appreciated, any number of cross wires 718 can be employed without departing from the scope of the disclosure. For instance, in at least one embodiment, themedian wire 718 c may be excluded from thesystem 700. - The
vertical facing 714 can include a plurality ofvertical wires 720 extending vertically with reference to thehorizontal element 712 and laterally-spaced from each other. In one embodiment, thevertical wires 720 may be vertically-extending extensions of thehorizontal wires 716. Thevertical facing 714 may also include a plurality of facingcross wires 722 vertically-offset from each other and welded or otherwise attached to thevertical wires 720. Atop-most cross wire 724 may be vertically-offset from the last facingcross wire 722 and also attached to thevertical wires 720 in like manner. - In at least one embodiment, each
vertical wire 720 may be separated by a distance of about 4 inches on center from adjacentvertical wires 720, and the facingcross wires 722 may also be separated from each other by a distance of about 4 inches on center, thereby generating a grid-like facing composed of a plurality of square voids having a 4″×4″ dimension. As can be appreciated, however, the spacing betweenadjacent wires top-most cross wire 724 may be vertically-offset from the last facingcross wire 722 by a distance X, as will be discussed in more detail below. - The wire facing 706 may further include a plurality of connector leads 726 a-g extending from the
horizontal element 712 and up thevertical facing 714. In an embodiment, eachconnector lead 726 a-g may include a pair of horizontal wires 716 (orvertical wires 720, if taken from the frame of reference of the vertical facing 714) laterally-offset from each other by a short distance. The short distance can vary depending on the particular application, but may generally include about a one inch separation. In one embodiment, eachconnector lead 726 a-g may be equidistantly-spaced from each other along thehorizontal element 712 and/or vertical facing 714, and configured to provide a visual indicator to an installer as to where asoil reinforcing element 708 may be properly attached, as will be described in greater detail below. In at least one embodiment, eachconnector lead 726 a-g may be spaced from each other by about 12 inches on center. As can be appreciated, however, such relative distances may vary to suit particular applications. - Still referring to
FIG. 7B , one ormore struts 710 may be operatively coupled to the wire facing 706. As illustrated, thestruts 710 may be coupled to both thevertical facing 714 and thehorizontal element 712 at appropriate locations. Eachstrut 710 may be prefabricated with or include astrut connector 728 disposed at each end of thestrut 710 and configured to fasten or otherwise attach thestruts 710 to both thehorizontal element 712 and thevertical facing 714. In at least one embodiment, thestrut connector 728 may include a hook that is bent about 180° back upon itself. In other embodiments, however, thestrut connector 728 may include a wire loop disposed at each end of thestruts 710 that can be manipulated, clipped, or otherwise tied to both thehorizontal element 712 and thevertical facing 714. As can be appreciated, however, thestruts 710 can be coupled to thehorizontal element 712 and the vertical facing 714 by any practicable method or device known in the art. - Each
strut 710 may be coupled at one end to at least one facingcross wire 722 and at the other end to theterminal wire 718 b. In other embodiments, one ormore struts 710 may be coupled to themedian wire 718 c instead of theterminal wire 718 b, without departing from the scope of the disclosure. As illustrated, eachstrut 710 may be coupled to the wire facing 706 in general alignment with acorresponding connector lead 726 a-g. In other embodiments, however, thestruts 710 can be connected at any location along the respective axial lengths of any facingcross wire 722 andterminal wire 718 b, without departing from the scope of the disclosure. In yet other embodiments, thestruts 710 may be coupled to avertical wire 720 of thevertical facing 714 and/or ahorizontal wire 716 of thehorizontal element 712, respectively, without departing from the scope of the disclosure. - The
struts 710 are generally coupled to the wire facing 706 before any backfill 704 (FIG. 7A ) is added to therespective lift 702 a,b of thesystem 700. During the placement ofbackfill 704, and during the working life of thesystem 700, thestruts 710 may be adapted to prevent the vertical facing 714 from bending past a predetermined vertical angle. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the struts. 710 may be configured to maintain the vertical facing 714 at or near about 90° with respect to thehorizontal element 712. As can be appreciated, however, thestruts 710 can be fabricated to varying lengths or otherwise attached at varying locations along the wire facing 706 to maintain the vertical facing 714 at a variety of angles of orientation. Once properly installed, thestruts 710 may allow installers to walk on thebackfill 704 of the MSE structure, tamp it, and compact it fully before adding a new layer or lift 702. - Referring now to
FIGS. 8A-8C , with continued reference toFIGS. 7A and 7B , illustrated is various views of an exemplary connector orconnection device 730 as used in thesystem 700 for coupling thesoil reinforcing element 708 to the wire facing 706, and in particular to thevertical facings second lifts FIG. 8A is an isometric view of theconnection device 730,FIG. 8B is a plan view of theconnection device 730, andFIG. 8C is an exploded cross-sectional side view of theconnection device 730. Although theconnection device 730 is shown connecting first and secondvertical facings 714 a,b, it will be appreciated that theconnection device 730 may equally be used to couple asoil reinforcing element 708 to a singlevertical facing 714, as is the case with thefirst lift 702 a depicted inFIG. 7A and in both lifts 102 a,b inFIG. 80 described below. - In one or more embodiments, the
connection device 730 may include at least onebearing plate 732 having one or morelongitudinal protrusions 740 configured to receive or otherwise seat the upwardly-extendingextensions 709 of thesoil reinforcing element 708 when installed in thesystem 700. As can be appreciated, in embodiments having more than twolongitudinal wires 116, with corresponding more than two upwardly-extendingextensions 709, there may be a corresponding number oflongitudinal protrusions 740 to accommodate eachextension 709. Thelongitudinal protrusions 740 may serve to centralize thesoil reinforcing element 708 with respect to thebearing plate 732 and prevent thesoil reinforcing element 708 from shifting or otherwise moving from side to side. This may prove advantageous during settling and/or thermal contraction and expansion of the MSE structure where thesoil reinforcing element 708 may otherwise become dislodged from thesystem 700 and thereby weaken the structural integrity of the MSE structure. - The bearing
plate 732 may be configured to accommodate or otherwise receive arod 734, such as a threaded rod, via a perforation (not shown) centrally-defined within thebearing plate 732. In at least one embodiment, therod 734 may be a bolt, but may also be a length of rebar or other rigid material. Therod 734 may be configured to extend through the perforation (not shown) of thebearing plate 732 and further through any adjacentvertical facings 714, such asvertical facings 714 a,b, as best seen inFIG. 8C . Once extended through thebearing plate 732 and adjacentvertical facings 714 a,b, therod 734 may be secured from removal by threading anut 736 or similar device onto its end. In other embodiments, thenut 736 may be omitted and therod 734 may be bent to one side, thereby preventing its removal. In at least one embodiment, awasher 738 may be interposed between thenut 736 and thevertical facings 714 a,b. As thenut 736 is tightened, thewasher 738 may be forced into engagement with the outside surface of the first vertical facing 714 a. - As illustrated, the
connection device 730 may be coupled to thevertical facings 714 a,b at aconnector lead 726 a-g, such as connector lead 726 a as shown inFIGS. 8A and 8B . Accordingly, thewasher 738 may be appropriately sized so as to properly engage the outside surface of theconnector lead 726 a. In other embodiments, however, theconnection device 730 may be coupled at any location of thevertical facing 714, for example, between adjacent vertical wires 720 (FIG. 7B ). In such an embodiment, alarger washer 738 or similar device is contemplated in order to adequately engage eachvertical wire 720 and secure thesoil reinforcing element 708 from removal. Consequently, anysize washer 738 may be used to suit a particular application so as to adequately engage thevertical facing 714. - In exemplary operation, with continued reference to
FIGS. 7A and 8C , thefirst lift 702 a may be disposed substantially below thesecond lift 702 b, with its vertical facing 714 a being placed laterally in front of or adjacent the vertical facing 714 b of thesecond lift 702 b. Backfill 704 may be added to at least a portion of thefirst lift 702 a to a first height or distance Y above the last facingcross wire 722. Thesecond lift 702 b may be disposed on top of thebackfill 704, thereby being placed a distance Y above the last facingcross wire 722. As will be appreciated, the first height or distance Y can be any distance or height less than the distance X, or the vertically-offset distance between the last facingcross wire 722 and thetop-most cross wire 724. For example, the distance Y can be up to but less than the distance X, thereby providingbackfill 704 up to but just below thetop-most cross wire 724 of the vertical facing 714 a. - According to embodiments disclosed herein, the
connection device 730 may be configured to not only couple asoil reinforcing element 708 to a singlevertical facing 714 or a pair ofvertical facings 714 a,b, but it may also facilitate a sliding or slidable engagement betweenadjacent lifts second lifts 702 a,b, thenut 736 may be “finger-tightened,” or tightened so as to nonetheless allow vertical movement of either the first orsecond lift 702 a,b with respect to each other. Tightening thenut 736 may bring thebearing plate 732 and/or upwardly-extendingextensions 709 into engagement with the vertical facing 714 b of thesecond lift 702 b, having thesoil reinforcing element 708 resting on or at least adjacent theinitial wire 718 a. Tightening thenut 736 may also bring thewasher 738 into engagement with the vertical facing 714 a of thefirst lift 702 a, as discussed above. In at least one embodiment, tightening thenut 736 may further bring thetop-most cross wire 724 of the first vertical facing 714 a into engagement with the second vertical facing 714 b and thereby further prevent the outward displacement of the second vertical facing 714 b. However, in other embodiments, thetop-most cross wire 724 is not necessarily brought into contact with the second vertical facing 714 b, but the second vertical facing 714 b may be held in its angular configuration by thestrut 118 andconnection device 120 disposed on the last facingcross wire 722. - Placing the
second lift 702 b a distance Y above the last facingcross wire 722 allows thesecond lift 702 b to vertically shift the distance Y in reaction to MSE settling or thermal expansion/contraction of the MSE structure before coming into contact with the last facingcross wire 722 and potentially thestrut 710 of thefirst lift 702 a. Accordingly, the distance Y can be characterized as a distance of settlement over which thesecond lift 702 b may be able to traverse without binding on thefirst lift 702 a and thereby weakening the structural integrity of the MSE system. - Referring now to
FIGS. 8D and 8E , in other exemplary embodiments thesoil reinforcing elements 708 may be attached to thevertical facings 714 a,b at multiple locations and at any vertical height relative to the respectivehorizontal elements 712 a,b. For example, as depicted inFIG. 8D , one or moresoil reinforcing elements 708 may be vertically-offset from thehorizontal elements 712 a,b a distance Q. In operation, a first quantity ofbackfill 704 a may be placed on the firsthorizontal element 712 a of thefirst lift 702 a and compacted to a first height Q above the firsthorizontal element 712 a. Asoil reinforcing element 708 may then be placed on top of the first quantity ofbackfill 704 a and coupled or otherwise attached to the first vertical facing 714 a using theconnection device 730 as generally described above. - A second quantity of
backfill 704 b may then be placed atop the first quantity ofbackfill 704 a to a second height Y above the last facingcross wire 722. As shown inFIG. 8D , the second height Y can be below thetop-most cross wire 724 to facilitate the connection of anothersoil reinforcing element 708 to the first vertical facing 714 a. As generally described above, the second height Y may provide the soil reinforcing element 708 a settling distance. It will be appreciated, however, that asoil reinforcing element 708 is not required to be placed atop the second quantity ofbackfill 704 b. Instead, thesoil reinforcing element 708 may be omitted and thesecond lift 702 b may be placed directly on top of the second quantity ofbackfill 704 b, without departing from the scope of the disclosure. It will further be appreciated, that thesoil reinforcing element 708 placed atop the first quantity ofbackfill 704 a may also be omitted, and instead the first and second quantities ofbackfill 704 a,b may be combined into a single mass, as shown inFIG. 7A . - As shown in
FIG. 8E , the second height Y of the second quantity ofbackfill 704 b may extend to thetop-most cross wire 724, or otherwise be level therewith once compacted. Accordingly, thesecond lift 702 b may be placed directly on top of thefirst lift 702 a by engaging the second quantity ofbackfill 704 b. While not shown, it will be appreciated that asoil reinforcing element 708 may be placed within the second quantity ofbackfill 704 b, as generally described with reference toFIG. 8D . - The
second lift 702 b may be constructed substantially similar to thefirst lift 702 a, but may also include one ormore struts 710 as described above. While not specifically shown inFIG. 8D , one ormore struts 710 may also be added to thefirst lift 702 a, without departing from the disclosure. In one or more embodiments, thestrut 710 may be laterally-offset (e.g., laterally into or out of the page inFIG. 8D ) from thesoil reinforcing elements 708. In other embodiments, thestrut 710 may be interposed between thelongitudinal wires 116 of thesoil reinforcing elements 708, as shown inFIG. 8B . - After the optional placement of the
strut 710, a third quantity ofbackfill 704 c may be placed on the secondhorizontal element 712 b of thesecond lift 702 b to a third height Q above the secondhorizontal element 712 b. The first and third height Q may be substantially similar, but may otherwise differ, depending on the application. After asoil reinforcing element 708 is placed atop the compacted third quantity ofbackfill 704 c and coupled to the second vertical facing 714 b with aconnection device 730, a fourth portion ofbackfill 704 d may be added and compacted. The fourth quantity ofbackfill 704 d may be added atop the third quantity ofbackfill 704 c to a fourth height Y above the last facingcross wire 722 of the second vertical facing 714 b. The second and fourth height Y may be substantially similar, but may otherwise differ, depending on the application. - Referring to both
FIGS. 8D and 8E , the second vertical facing 714 b of thesecond lift 702 b may be laterally-offset from the first vertical facing 714 a of the first lift by a distance Z, thereby forming a terraced wall. As can be appreciated, the distance Z may vary depending on the application. In embodiments having asoil reinforcing element 708 disposed atop the second quantity ofbackfill 704 b, thesecond lift 702 b may be able to settle the second distance Y, as described above. Where thesoil reinforcing element 708 disposed atop the second quantity ofbackfill 704 b is omitted, thesecond lift 702 b may be able to settle a distance greater than the second distance Y. - The foregoing has outlined features of several embodiments so that those skilled in the art may better understand the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art should appreciate that they may readily use the present disclosure as a basis for designing or modifying other processes and structures for carrying out the same purposes and/or achieving the same advantages of the embodiments introduced herein. Those skilled in the art should also realize that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, and that they may make various changes, substitutions and alterations herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.
Claims (25)
1. A mechanically stabilized earth structure, comprising:
a wire facing having a bend formed therein to form a horizontal element and a vertical facing, the horizontal element having initial and terminal wires each coupled to a plurality of horizontal wires, and the vertical facing having a plurality of vertical wires coupled to a plurality of facing cross wires and a top-most cross wire;
a soil reinforcing element having a plurality of transverse wires coupled to at least two longitudinal wires having upwardly-extending extensions; and
a connection device having a bearing plate with one or more longitudinal protrusions configured to receive the upwardly-extending extensions, the connection device being configured to couple the soil reinforcing element to the vertical facing.
2. The structure of claim 1 , wherein the connection device further comprises:
a rod extensible through a perforation defined in the bearing plate and the vertical facing;
a washer radially disposed about the rod adjacent an outside surface of the vertical facing; and
a nut coupled to the rod and configured to force the washer into engagement with the outside surface of the vertical facing.
3. The structure of claim 2 , wherein the connection device is coupled to the wire facing at a connector lead extending from the horizontal element and up the vertical facing.
4. The structure of claim 2 , wherein the connection device is coupled to the wire facing at adjacent vertical wires and the washer is sized to engage each adjacent vertical wire.
5. The structure of claim 1 , further comprising a strut having a first end coupled to the vertical facing and a second end coupled to the horizontal element, the strut being configured to maintain the vertical facing at a predetermined angle with respect to the horizontal element.
6. The structure of claim 5 , wherein the first end of the strut is coupled to one of the plurality of facing cross wires disposed below the top-most cross wire and the second end of the strut is coupled to the terminal wire.
7. A method of constructing a mechanically stabilized earth structure, comprising:
providing a first lift comprising a first wire facing bent to form a first horizontal element and a first vertical facing, the first horizontal element having initial and terminal wires coupled to a plurality of horizontal wires, and the first vertical facing having a plurality of vertical wires coupled to a plurality of facing cross wires including a last facing cross wire and a top-most cross wire vertically-disposed above the last facing cross wire;
seating upwardly-extending extensions of one or more longitudinal wires of a first soil reinforcing element within one or more longitudinal protrusions defined on a first bearing plate;
extending a first rod through a first perforation defined on the first bearing plate and further through the first vertical facing;
engaging an outside surface of the first vertical facing with a first washer disposed radially about an end of the first rod, the first washer being forced into engagement with the outside surface of the first vertical facing by a first nut coupled to the end of the first rod; and
placing backfill on the first lift to a first height above the last facing cross wire of the first vertical facing.
8. The method of claim 7 , further comprising coupling a first end of a strut to the first vertical facing and a second end of the strut to the first horizontal element, the strut being configured to maintain the first vertical facing at a predetermined angle with respect to the first horizontal element.
9. The method of claim 8 , wherein the first end of the strut is coupled to the last facing cross wire and the second end of the strut is coupled to the terminal wire.
10. The method of claim 7 , further comprising placing a second lift on the backfill of the first lift, the second lift comprising a second wire facing bent to form a second horizontal element and a second vertical facing.
11. The method of claim 10 , wherein the second lift is not in contact with the first lift but is completely supported by the backfill of the first lift.
12. The method of claim 10 , further comprising:
seating upwardly-extending extensions of one or more longitudinal wires of a second soil reinforcing element within one or more longitudinal protrusions defined on a second bearing plate extending a second rod through a second perforation defined on the second bearing plate and further through the second and first vertical facings;
engaging the outside surface of the first vertical facing with a second washer disposed radially about an end of the second rod, the second washer being forced into engagement with the outside surface of the first vertical facing by a second nut coupled to the end of the second rod and configured to allow the second lift to slidingly engage the first lift for at least the first height.
13. A mechanically stabilized earth structure, comprising:
a first lift comprising:
a first wire facing having a first horizontal element and a first vertical facing, the first horizontal element having initial and terminal wires coupled to a plurality of horizontal wires, and the first vertical facing having a plurality of vertical wires coupled to a plurality of facing cross wires including a last facing cross wire and a top-most cross wire vertically-disposed above the last facing cross wire;
a first soil reinforcing element having a plurality of transverse wires coupled to at least two longitudinal wires having upwardly-extending extensions;
a first connection device having a first bearing plate with one or more longitudinal protrusions configured to receive the upwardly-extending extensions of the first soil reinforcing element, the first connection device being configured to couple the soil reinforcing element to the first vertical facing; and
backfill disposed on the first wire facing to a first height above the last facing cross wire of the first vertical facing; and
a second lift disposed on the backfill of the first lift, the second lift comprising:
a second wire facing having a second horizontal element and a second vertical facing;
a second soil reinforcing element disposed on the second horizontal element and having a plurality of transverse wires coupled to at least two longitudinal wires having upwardly-extending extensions;
a second connection device having a second bearing plate with one or more longitudinal protrusions configured to receive the upwardly-extending extensions of the second soil reinforcing element, the second connection device being configured to couple the second soil reinforcing element to the first and second vertical facings.
14. The structure of claim 13 , wherein the first connection device further comprises:
a first rod extensible through a perforation defined on the first bearing plate and the first vertical facing;
a first washer radially disposed about the first rod adjacent an outside surface of the first vertical facing; and
a first nut coupled to the first rod and configured to force the first washer into engagement with the outside surface of the first vertical facing.
15. The structure of claim 14 , wherein the first connection device is coupled to the first wire facing at a connector lead extending from the first horizontal element and up the first vertical facing.
16. The structure of claim 14 , wherein the first connection device is coupled to the first wire facing at adjacent vertical wires and the first washer is sized to engage each adjacent vertical wire.
17. The structure of claim 13 , wherein the second connection device further comprises:
a second rod extensible through a perforation defined on the second bearing plate and further through the second and first vertical facings;
a second washer radially disposed about the second rod adjacent an outside surface of the first vertical facing; and
a second nut coupled to the second rod and configured to force the second washer into engagement with the outside surface of the first vertical facing.
18. The structure of claim 17 , wherein the second vertical facing slidably engages the first vertical facing for a distance less than or equal to the first height.
19. A method of constructing a mechanically stabilized earth structure, comprising:
providing a first lift comprising a first wire facing bent to form a first horizontal element and a first vertical facing, the first vertical facing having a plurality of vertical wires coupled to a plurality of facing cross wires including a last facing cross wire and a top-most cross wire vertically-disposed above the last facing cross wire;
placing a first quantity of backfill on the first lift to a first height above the first horizontal element;
coupling a first soil reinforcing element to the first vertical facing at the first height and on top of the first quantity of backfill;
placing a second quantity of backfill atop the first quantity of backfill and the first soil reinforcing element to a second height above the last facing cross wire of the first vertical facing;
disposing a second lift atop the first lift, the second lift comprising a second wire facing bent to form a second horizontal element and a second vertical facing, the second vertical facing having a plurality of vertical wires coupled to a plurality of facing cross wires including a last facing cross wire and a top-most cross wire vertically-disposed above the last facing cross wire;
placing a third quantity of backfill on the second lift to a third height above the second horizontal element;
coupling a second soil reinforcing element to the second vertical facing at the third height and on top of the third quantity of backfill; and
placing a fourth quantity of backfill atop the third quantity of backfill and the second soil reinforcing element to a fourth height above the last facing cross wire of the second vertical facing.
20. The method of claim 19 , wherein coupling the first soil reinforcing element to the first vertical facing at the first height further comprises:
seating upwardly-extending extensions of the first soil reinforcing element within one or more longitudinal protrusions defined on a first bearing plate;
extending a first rod through a perforation defined on the first bearing plate and further through the first vertical facing; and
engaging an outside surface of the first vertical facing with a first washer disposed radially about an end of the first rod, the first washer being forced into engagement with the outside surface of the first vertical facing by a first nut coupled to the end of the first rod.
21. The method of claim 19 , wherein coupling the second soil reinforcing element to the second vertical facing at the third height further comprises:
seating upwardly-extending extensions of the second soil reinforcing element within one or more longitudinal protrusions defined on a second bearing plate;
extending a second rod through a perforation defined on the second bearing plate and further through the second vertical facing; and
engaging an outside surface of the second vertical facing with a second washer disposed radially about an end of the second rod, the second washer being forced into engagement with the outside surface of the second vertical facing by a second nut coupled to the end of the second rod.
22. The method of claim 19 , further comprising coupling a third soil reinforcing element to the first vertical facing at the second height before disposing the second lift on the second quantity of backfill.
23. The method of claim 19 , wherein the second height is level with the top-most cross wire.
24. The method of claim 19 , further comprising disposing the second lift on the second quantity of backfill such that the second vertical facing is laterally-offset from the first vertical facing a distance Z.
25. The method of claim 19 , further comprising coupling a first end of a strut to the second vertical facing and a second end of the strut to the second horizontal element, the strut being configured to maintain the second vertical facing at a predetermined angle with respect to the second horizontal element.
Priority Applications (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/861,632 US20110170958A1 (en) | 2010-01-08 | 2010-08-23 | Soil reinforcing connector and method of constructing a mechanically stabilized earth structure |
PCT/US2011/020194 WO2011084986A2 (en) | 2010-01-08 | 2011-01-05 | Soil reinforcing connector and method of constructing a mechanically stabilized earth structure |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/684,479 US8393829B2 (en) | 2010-01-08 | 2010-01-08 | Wave anchor soil reinforcing connector and method |
US12/861,632 US20110170958A1 (en) | 2010-01-08 | 2010-08-23 | Soil reinforcing connector and method of constructing a mechanically stabilized earth structure |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/684,479 Continuation-In-Part US8393829B2 (en) | 2010-01-08 | 2010-01-08 | Wave anchor soil reinforcing connector and method |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20110170958A1 true US20110170958A1 (en) | 2011-07-14 |
Family
ID=44258647
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/861,632 Abandoned US20110170958A1 (en) | 2010-01-08 | 2010-08-23 | Soil reinforcing connector and method of constructing a mechanically stabilized earth structure |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20110170958A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2011084986A2 (en) |
Cited By (13)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20110311317A1 (en) * | 2010-06-17 | 2011-12-22 | T & B Structural Systems Llc | Soil reinforcing element for a mechanically stabilized earth structure |
US20110311314A1 (en) * | 2010-06-17 | 2011-12-22 | T & B Structural Systems Llc | Mechanically stabilized earth welded wire facing connection system and method |
US20110311318A1 (en) * | 2010-06-17 | 2011-12-22 | T & B Structural Systems Llc | Mechanically stabilized earth system and method |
US20120224927A1 (en) * | 2010-06-17 | 2012-09-06 | T & B Structural Systems Llc | Mechanically stabilized earth welded wire facing connection system and method |
US8393829B2 (en) | 2010-01-08 | 2013-03-12 | T&B Structural Systems Llc | Wave anchor soil reinforcing connector and method |
US20130136544A1 (en) * | 2011-11-30 | 2013-05-30 | EarthTec International LLC | Mechanical earth stabilizing system including reinforcing members with enhanced soil shear resistance |
US8496411B2 (en) | 2008-06-04 | 2013-07-30 | T & B Structural Systems Llc | Two stage mechanically stabilized earth wall system |
US8632279B2 (en) | 2010-01-08 | 2014-01-21 | T & B Structural Systems Llc | Splice for a soil reinforcing element or connector |
US8632281B2 (en) | 2010-06-17 | 2014-01-21 | T & B Structural Systems Llc | Mechanically stabilized earth system and method |
US8632277B2 (en) | 2009-01-14 | 2014-01-21 | T & B Structural Systems Llc | Retaining wall soil reinforcing connector and method |
US9322143B1 (en) | 2014-04-09 | 2016-04-26 | Desmond D. Bryan | Retaining wall clamping assembly |
US9605402B2 (en) | 2009-01-14 | 2017-03-28 | Thomas P. Taylor | Retaining wall soil reinforcing connector and method |
US11519151B2 (en) | 2020-04-23 | 2022-12-06 | The Taylor Ip Group Llc | Connector for soil reinforcing and method of manufacturing |
Citations (95)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US991041A (en) * | 1911-02-24 | 1911-05-02 | Richard Toennes | Embankment-protector. |
US1144143A (en) * | 1913-05-17 | 1915-06-22 | James Mcgillivray | Revetment. |
US1813912A (en) * | 1927-10-27 | 1931-07-14 | Alexander C Robarge | Concrete building structure |
US1959816A (en) * | 1932-03-21 | 1934-05-22 | Crum Albert | Brick |
US1992785A (en) * | 1933-09-29 | 1935-02-26 | Otto A Steuer | Building structure and brick for the same |
US2137153A (en) * | 1938-02-02 | 1938-11-15 | Brozek Stanley | Ventilated block and wall construction |
US2208589A (en) * | 1938-05-31 | 1940-07-23 | Edward James Donaldson | Building material and method |
US2275933A (en) * | 1940-01-29 | 1942-03-10 | Bigelow Liptak Corp | Furnace wall |
US2316712A (en) * | 1940-05-17 | 1943-04-13 | Richard E Prince | Soil retaining wall for basement windows |
US2327640A (en) * | 1941-05-29 | 1943-08-24 | Adolph R Hendry | Surfacing mat for landing fields |
US2552712A (en) * | 1949-03-08 | 1951-05-15 | Ellis William Hite | Keyed building block wall |
US2703963A (en) * | 1952-02-26 | 1955-03-15 | Gutierrez Placido Alvarez | Sheet piling anchorage |
US2881614A (en) * | 1955-08-31 | 1959-04-14 | Preininger Milos | Building or construction blocks |
US3597928A (en) * | 1967-12-22 | 1971-08-10 | Jan Carel Pilaar | Erosion control |
US3680748A (en) * | 1971-02-23 | 1972-08-01 | Charles Brunhuber | Garment shoulder saver attachment for wire garment hangers |
US3998022A (en) * | 1970-01-02 | 1976-12-21 | Muse George B | Interlocking building blocks |
US4075924A (en) * | 1976-05-14 | 1978-02-28 | Mechanical Plastics Corporation | Anchor assembly for fastener |
US4116010A (en) * | 1975-09-26 | 1978-09-26 | Henri Vidal | Stabilized earth structures |
US4117686A (en) * | 1976-09-17 | 1978-10-03 | Hilfiker Pipe Co. | Fabric structures for earth retaining walls |
US4123881A (en) * | 1975-02-10 | 1978-11-07 | Muse George B | Wall structure with insulated interfitting blocks |
US4134241A (en) * | 1977-07-07 | 1979-01-16 | Energy Block Ltd. | Insulated building block |
US4286895A (en) * | 1978-06-29 | 1981-09-01 | Giovanni Poli | Underwater paving machine and concrete blocks therefor |
US4324508A (en) * | 1980-01-09 | 1982-04-13 | Hilfiker Pipe Co. | Retaining and reinforcement system method and apparatus for earthen formations |
US4329089A (en) * | 1979-07-12 | 1982-05-11 | Hilfiker Pipe Company | Method and apparatus for retaining earthen formations through means of wire structures |
US4341491A (en) * | 1976-05-07 | 1982-07-27 | Albert Neumann | Earth retaining system |
US4343572A (en) * | 1980-03-12 | 1982-08-10 | Hilfiker Pipe Co. | Apparatus and method for anchoring the rigid face of a retaining structure for an earthen formation |
US4391557A (en) * | 1979-07-12 | 1983-07-05 | Hilfiker Pipe Co. | Retaining wall for earthen formations and method of making the same |
US4411255A (en) * | 1981-01-06 | 1983-10-25 | Lee Kenneth S | Passive thermal storage wall structures for heating and cooling buildings |
US4470728A (en) * | 1981-06-11 | 1984-09-11 | West Yorkshire Metropolitan County Council | Reinforced earth structures and facing units therefor |
US4505621A (en) * | 1983-05-25 | 1985-03-19 | Hilfiker Pipe Co. | Wire retaining wall apparatus and method for earthen formations |
US4514113A (en) * | 1983-07-27 | 1985-04-30 | Albert Neumann | Earth retaining wall system |
US4616959A (en) * | 1985-03-25 | 1986-10-14 | Hilfiker Pipe Co. | Seawall using earth reinforcing mats |
US4643618A (en) * | 1985-02-11 | 1987-02-17 | Hilfiker Pipe Co. | Soil reinforced cantilever wall |
US4651975A (en) * | 1986-01-27 | 1987-03-24 | Howell Venice T | Insert member for chain link fences |
US4653962A (en) * | 1985-10-17 | 1987-03-31 | The Reinforced Earth Company | Retaining wall construction and method of manufacture |
US4661023A (en) * | 1985-12-30 | 1987-04-28 | Hilfiker Pipe Co. | Riveted plate connector for retaining wall face panels |
US4664552A (en) * | 1985-08-16 | 1987-05-12 | Cecil Schaaf | Erosion control apparatus and method |
US4710062A (en) * | 1985-07-05 | 1987-12-01 | Henri Vidal | Metal strip for use in stabilized earth structures |
US4725170A (en) * | 1986-10-07 | 1988-02-16 | Vsl Corporation | Retained earth structure and method of making same |
US4834584A (en) * | 1987-11-06 | 1989-05-30 | Hilfiker William K | Dual swiggle reinforcement system |
US4856939A (en) * | 1988-12-28 | 1989-08-15 | Hilfiker William K | Method and apparatus for constructing geogrid earthen retaining walls |
US4914876A (en) * | 1986-09-15 | 1990-04-10 | Keystone Retaining Wall Systems, Inc. | Retaining wall with flexible mechanical soil stabilizing sheet |
US4920712A (en) * | 1989-01-31 | 1990-05-01 | Stonewall Landscape Systems, Inc. | Concrete retaining wall block, retaining wall and method of construction therefore |
US4929125A (en) * | 1989-03-08 | 1990-05-29 | Hilfiker William K | Reinforced soil retaining wall and connector therefor |
US4952098A (en) * | 1989-12-21 | 1990-08-28 | Ivy Steel Products, Inc. | Retaining wall anchor system |
US4961673A (en) * | 1987-11-30 | 1990-10-09 | The Reinforced Earth Company | Retaining wall construction and method for construction of such a retaining wall |
US4968186A (en) * | 1990-02-22 | 1990-11-06 | Tricon Precast, Inc. | Mechanically stabilized earth system and method of making same |
US4993879A (en) * | 1989-03-08 | 1991-02-19 | Hilfiker William K | Connector for securing soil reinforcing elements to retaining wall panels |
FR2653183A1 (en) * | 1989-10-12 | 1991-04-19 | Rapid Sa | Fastener for fixing an element, for example a tubular element, to any wall |
US5044833A (en) * | 1990-04-11 | 1991-09-03 | Wilfiker William K | Reinforced soil retaining wall and connector therefor |
US5066169A (en) * | 1991-02-19 | 1991-11-19 | Gavin Norman W | Retaining wall system |
US5076735A (en) * | 1990-08-31 | 1991-12-31 | Hilfiker William K | Welded wire component gabions and method of making the same and construction soil reinforced retaining walls therefrom |
US5139369A (en) * | 1985-09-12 | 1992-08-18 | Jaecklin Felix Paul | Wall with gravity support structure, building element and method for construction thereof |
US5156496A (en) * | 1987-11-23 | 1992-10-20 | Societe Civile Des Brevets De Henri Vidal | Earth structures |
US5190413A (en) * | 1991-09-11 | 1993-03-02 | The Neel Company | Earthwork system |
US5207038A (en) * | 1990-06-04 | 1993-05-04 | Yermiyahu Negri | Reinforced earth structures and method of construction thereof |
USRE34314E (en) * | 1986-09-15 | 1993-07-20 | Keystone Retaining Wall Systems, Inc. | Block wall |
US5257880A (en) * | 1990-07-26 | 1993-11-02 | Graystone Block Co. | Retaining wall construction and blocks therefor |
US5259704A (en) * | 1990-11-08 | 1993-11-09 | Tricon Precast, Inc. | Mechanically stabilized earth system and method of making same |
US5417523A (en) * | 1993-10-29 | 1995-05-23 | Scales; John | Connector and method for engaging soil-reinforcing grid and earth retaining wall |
US5451120A (en) * | 1990-12-21 | 1995-09-19 | Planobra, S.A. De C.V. | Earth reinforcement and embankment building systems |
US5456554A (en) * | 1994-01-07 | 1995-10-10 | Colorado Transportation Institute | Independently adjustable facing panels for mechanically stabilized earth wall |
US5474405A (en) * | 1993-03-31 | 1995-12-12 | Societe Civile Des Brevets Henri C. Vidal | Low elevation wall construction |
US5484235A (en) * | 1994-06-02 | 1996-01-16 | Hilfiker; William K. | Retaining wall system |
USD366191S (en) * | 1994-01-24 | 1996-01-16 | Gay G Thomas | Lawn edge |
US5487623A (en) * | 1993-03-31 | 1996-01-30 | Societe Civile Des Brevets Henri C. Vidal | Modular block retaining wall construction and components |
US5494379A (en) * | 1993-08-30 | 1996-02-27 | The Reinforced Earth Company | Earthen work with wire mesh facing |
US5522682A (en) * | 1994-03-02 | 1996-06-04 | The Tensar Corporation | Modular wall block system and grid connection device for use therewith |
US5525014A (en) * | 1994-07-05 | 1996-06-11 | Brown; Richard L. | Horizontally-yielding earth stabilizing structure |
US5531547A (en) * | 1993-10-20 | 1996-07-02 | Kyokado Engineering Co., Ltd. | Reinforced earth construction |
US5533839A (en) * | 1994-02-17 | 1996-07-09 | Kyokado Engineering Co., Ltd. | Wall surface structure of reinforced earth structure |
US5582492A (en) * | 1995-10-18 | 1996-12-10 | Doyle, Jr.; Henry G. | Method and apparatus for an anchored earth restraining wall |
US5622455A (en) * | 1993-03-31 | 1997-04-22 | Societe Civile Des Brevets Henri Vidal | Earthen work with wire mesh facing |
US5702208A (en) * | 1994-06-02 | 1997-12-30 | Hilfiker; William K. | Grid-locked block panel system |
US5722799A (en) * | 1996-05-23 | 1998-03-03 | Hilfiker; William K. | Wire earthen retention wall with separate face panel and soil reinforcement elements |
US5730559A (en) * | 1993-08-30 | 1998-03-24 | Societe Civile Des Brevets Henri C. Vidal | Earthen work with wire mesh facing |
US5733072A (en) * | 1996-07-31 | 1998-03-31 | William K. Hilfiker | Wirewall with stiffened high wire density face |
USD393989S (en) * | 1996-03-08 | 1998-05-05 | Groves George D | Vegetation barrier |
US5749680A (en) * | 1996-11-05 | 1998-05-12 | William K. Hilfiker | Wire mat connector |
US5797706A (en) * | 1993-06-24 | 1998-08-25 | Societe Civile Des Brevets Henri Vidal | Earth structures |
US5807030A (en) * | 1993-03-31 | 1998-09-15 | The Reinforced Earth Company | Stabilizing elements for mechanically stabilized earthen structure |
US5947643A (en) * | 1993-03-31 | 1999-09-07 | Societe Civile Des Brevets Henri Vidal | Earthen work with wire mesh facing |
US5951209A (en) * | 1996-11-25 | 1999-09-14 | Societe Civile Des Brevets Henri C. Vidal | Earthen work with wire mesh facing |
US5971699A (en) * | 1991-02-11 | 1999-10-26 | Winski; Ernest P. | Case loading system |
US5975809A (en) * | 1997-11-07 | 1999-11-02 | Taylor; Thomas P. | Apparatus and method for securing soil reinforcing elements to earthen retaining wall components |
US5975810A (en) * | 1998-04-01 | 1999-11-02 | Taylor; Thomas P. | Geo-grid anchor |
US6024516A (en) * | 1997-08-05 | 2000-02-15 | Taylor; Thomas P. | System for securing a face panel to an earthen formation |
US6079908A (en) * | 1993-03-31 | 2000-06-27 | Societe Civile Des Brevets Henri Vidal | Stabilizing elements for mechanically stabilized earthen structure and mechanically stabilized earthen structure |
US6086288A (en) * | 1997-07-18 | 2000-07-11 | Ssl, L.L.C. | Systems and methods for connecting retaining wall panels to buried mesh |
USD433291S (en) * | 1996-10-09 | 2000-11-07 | Shamoon Ellis N | Garden edging |
US6186703B1 (en) * | 1998-03-12 | 2001-02-13 | Shaw Technologies | Mechanical interlocking means for retaining wall |
US6345934B1 (en) * | 1996-04-15 | 2002-02-12 | Jean-Marc Jailloux | Earth structure and method for constructing with supports having rearwardly located portions |
US20030108385A1 (en) * | 2001-12-10 | 2003-06-12 | Legrand S.P.A. | Joining clamp for a mesh cable tray and a connecting device comprising such a joining clamp |
US20040018061A1 (en) * | 2002-07-26 | 2004-01-29 | Jansson Jan Erik | Concrete module for retaining wall and improved retaining wall |
US6802675B2 (en) * | 2002-05-31 | 2004-10-12 | Reinforced Earth Company | Two stage wall connector |
Family Cites Families (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US6865857B1 (en) * | 1997-02-14 | 2005-03-15 | Josep Maria Adell Argiles | Integral reinforcing system for masonry walls |
US8079782B1 (en) * | 2008-05-16 | 2011-12-20 | Hilfiker William K | Semi-extensible steel soil reinforcements for mechanically stabilized embankments |
-
2010
- 2010-08-23 US US12/861,632 patent/US20110170958A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2011
- 2011-01-05 WO PCT/US2011/020194 patent/WO2011084986A2/en active Application Filing
Patent Citations (99)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US991041A (en) * | 1911-02-24 | 1911-05-02 | Richard Toennes | Embankment-protector. |
US1144143A (en) * | 1913-05-17 | 1915-06-22 | James Mcgillivray | Revetment. |
US1813912A (en) * | 1927-10-27 | 1931-07-14 | Alexander C Robarge | Concrete building structure |
US1959816A (en) * | 1932-03-21 | 1934-05-22 | Crum Albert | Brick |
US1992785A (en) * | 1933-09-29 | 1935-02-26 | Otto A Steuer | Building structure and brick for the same |
US2137153A (en) * | 1938-02-02 | 1938-11-15 | Brozek Stanley | Ventilated block and wall construction |
US2208589A (en) * | 1938-05-31 | 1940-07-23 | Edward James Donaldson | Building material and method |
US2275933A (en) * | 1940-01-29 | 1942-03-10 | Bigelow Liptak Corp | Furnace wall |
US2316712A (en) * | 1940-05-17 | 1943-04-13 | Richard E Prince | Soil retaining wall for basement windows |
US2327640A (en) * | 1941-05-29 | 1943-08-24 | Adolph R Hendry | Surfacing mat for landing fields |
US2552712A (en) * | 1949-03-08 | 1951-05-15 | Ellis William Hite | Keyed building block wall |
US2703963A (en) * | 1952-02-26 | 1955-03-15 | Gutierrez Placido Alvarez | Sheet piling anchorage |
US2881614A (en) * | 1955-08-31 | 1959-04-14 | Preininger Milos | Building or construction blocks |
US3597928A (en) * | 1967-12-22 | 1971-08-10 | Jan Carel Pilaar | Erosion control |
US3998022A (en) * | 1970-01-02 | 1976-12-21 | Muse George B | Interlocking building blocks |
US3680748A (en) * | 1971-02-23 | 1972-08-01 | Charles Brunhuber | Garment shoulder saver attachment for wire garment hangers |
US4123881A (en) * | 1975-02-10 | 1978-11-07 | Muse George B | Wall structure with insulated interfitting blocks |
US4116010A (en) * | 1975-09-26 | 1978-09-26 | Henri Vidal | Stabilized earth structures |
US4341491A (en) * | 1976-05-07 | 1982-07-27 | Albert Neumann | Earth retaining system |
US4075924A (en) * | 1976-05-14 | 1978-02-28 | Mechanical Plastics Corporation | Anchor assembly for fastener |
US4117686A (en) * | 1976-09-17 | 1978-10-03 | Hilfiker Pipe Co. | Fabric structures for earth retaining walls |
US4134241A (en) * | 1977-07-07 | 1979-01-16 | Energy Block Ltd. | Insulated building block |
US4286895A (en) * | 1978-06-29 | 1981-09-01 | Giovanni Poli | Underwater paving machine and concrete blocks therefor |
US4329089A (en) * | 1979-07-12 | 1982-05-11 | Hilfiker Pipe Company | Method and apparatus for retaining earthen formations through means of wire structures |
US4391557A (en) * | 1979-07-12 | 1983-07-05 | Hilfiker Pipe Co. | Retaining wall for earthen formations and method of making the same |
US4324508A (en) * | 1980-01-09 | 1982-04-13 | Hilfiker Pipe Co. | Retaining and reinforcement system method and apparatus for earthen formations |
US4343572A (en) * | 1980-03-12 | 1982-08-10 | Hilfiker Pipe Co. | Apparatus and method for anchoring the rigid face of a retaining structure for an earthen formation |
US4411255A (en) * | 1981-01-06 | 1983-10-25 | Lee Kenneth S | Passive thermal storage wall structures for heating and cooling buildings |
US4470728A (en) * | 1981-06-11 | 1984-09-11 | West Yorkshire Metropolitan County Council | Reinforced earth structures and facing units therefor |
US4505621A (en) * | 1983-05-25 | 1985-03-19 | Hilfiker Pipe Co. | Wire retaining wall apparatus and method for earthen formations |
US4514113A (en) * | 1983-07-27 | 1985-04-30 | Albert Neumann | Earth retaining wall system |
US4643618A (en) * | 1985-02-11 | 1987-02-17 | Hilfiker Pipe Co. | Soil reinforced cantilever wall |
US4616959A (en) * | 1985-03-25 | 1986-10-14 | Hilfiker Pipe Co. | Seawall using earth reinforcing mats |
US4710062A (en) * | 1985-07-05 | 1987-12-01 | Henri Vidal | Metal strip for use in stabilized earth structures |
US4664552A (en) * | 1985-08-16 | 1987-05-12 | Cecil Schaaf | Erosion control apparatus and method |
US5139369A (en) * | 1985-09-12 | 1992-08-18 | Jaecklin Felix Paul | Wall with gravity support structure, building element and method for construction thereof |
US4653962A (en) * | 1985-10-17 | 1987-03-31 | The Reinforced Earth Company | Retaining wall construction and method of manufacture |
US4661023A (en) * | 1985-12-30 | 1987-04-28 | Hilfiker Pipe Co. | Riveted plate connector for retaining wall face panels |
US4651975A (en) * | 1986-01-27 | 1987-03-24 | Howell Venice T | Insert member for chain link fences |
US4914876A (en) * | 1986-09-15 | 1990-04-10 | Keystone Retaining Wall Systems, Inc. | Retaining wall with flexible mechanical soil stabilizing sheet |
USRE34314E (en) * | 1986-09-15 | 1993-07-20 | Keystone Retaining Wall Systems, Inc. | Block wall |
US4725170A (en) * | 1986-10-07 | 1988-02-16 | Vsl Corporation | Retained earth structure and method of making same |
US4834584A (en) * | 1987-11-06 | 1989-05-30 | Hilfiker William K | Dual swiggle reinforcement system |
US5156496A (en) * | 1987-11-23 | 1992-10-20 | Societe Civile Des Brevets De Henri Vidal | Earth structures |
US4961673A (en) * | 1987-11-30 | 1990-10-09 | The Reinforced Earth Company | Retaining wall construction and method for construction of such a retaining wall |
US4856939A (en) * | 1988-12-28 | 1989-08-15 | Hilfiker William K | Method and apparatus for constructing geogrid earthen retaining walls |
US4920712A (en) * | 1989-01-31 | 1990-05-01 | Stonewall Landscape Systems, Inc. | Concrete retaining wall block, retaining wall and method of construction therefore |
US4929125A (en) * | 1989-03-08 | 1990-05-29 | Hilfiker William K | Reinforced soil retaining wall and connector therefor |
US4993879A (en) * | 1989-03-08 | 1991-02-19 | Hilfiker William K | Connector for securing soil reinforcing elements to retaining wall panels |
FR2653183A1 (en) * | 1989-10-12 | 1991-04-19 | Rapid Sa | Fastener for fixing an element, for example a tubular element, to any wall |
US4952098A (en) * | 1989-12-21 | 1990-08-28 | Ivy Steel Products, Inc. | Retaining wall anchor system |
US4968186A (en) * | 1990-02-22 | 1990-11-06 | Tricon Precast, Inc. | Mechanically stabilized earth system and method of making same |
US5044833A (en) * | 1990-04-11 | 1991-09-03 | Wilfiker William K | Reinforced soil retaining wall and connector therefor |
US5207038A (en) * | 1990-06-04 | 1993-05-04 | Yermiyahu Negri | Reinforced earth structures and method of construction thereof |
US5257880A (en) * | 1990-07-26 | 1993-11-02 | Graystone Block Co. | Retaining wall construction and blocks therefor |
US5076735A (en) * | 1990-08-31 | 1991-12-31 | Hilfiker William K | Welded wire component gabions and method of making the same and construction soil reinforced retaining walls therefrom |
US5259704A (en) * | 1990-11-08 | 1993-11-09 | Tricon Precast, Inc. | Mechanically stabilized earth system and method of making same |
US5451120A (en) * | 1990-12-21 | 1995-09-19 | Planobra, S.A. De C.V. | Earth reinforcement and embankment building systems |
US5971699A (en) * | 1991-02-11 | 1999-10-26 | Winski; Ernest P. | Case loading system |
US5066169A (en) * | 1991-02-19 | 1991-11-19 | Gavin Norman W | Retaining wall system |
US5190413A (en) * | 1991-09-11 | 1993-03-02 | The Neel Company | Earthwork system |
US5474405A (en) * | 1993-03-31 | 1995-12-12 | Societe Civile Des Brevets Henri C. Vidal | Low elevation wall construction |
US5807030A (en) * | 1993-03-31 | 1998-09-15 | The Reinforced Earth Company | Stabilizing elements for mechanically stabilized earthen structure |
US6336773B1 (en) * | 1993-03-31 | 2002-01-08 | Societe Civile Des Brevets Henri C. Vidal | Stabilizing element for mechanically stabilized earthen structure |
US5622455A (en) * | 1993-03-31 | 1997-04-22 | Societe Civile Des Brevets Henri Vidal | Earthen work with wire mesh facing |
US5487623A (en) * | 1993-03-31 | 1996-01-30 | Societe Civile Des Brevets Henri C. Vidal | Modular block retaining wall construction and components |
US6050748A (en) * | 1993-03-31 | 2000-04-18 | Societe Civile Des Brevets Henri Vidal | Stabilizing elements for mechanically stabilized earthen structure |
US5507599A (en) * | 1993-03-31 | 1996-04-16 | Societe Civile Des Brevets Henri C. Vidal | Modular block retaining wall construction and components |
US5947643A (en) * | 1993-03-31 | 1999-09-07 | Societe Civile Des Brevets Henri Vidal | Earthen work with wire mesh facing |
US6079908A (en) * | 1993-03-31 | 2000-06-27 | Societe Civile Des Brevets Henri Vidal | Stabilizing elements for mechanically stabilized earthen structure and mechanically stabilized earthen structure |
US5797706A (en) * | 1993-06-24 | 1998-08-25 | Societe Civile Des Brevets Henri Vidal | Earth structures |
US5730559A (en) * | 1993-08-30 | 1998-03-24 | Societe Civile Des Brevets Henri C. Vidal | Earthen work with wire mesh facing |
US5494379A (en) * | 1993-08-30 | 1996-02-27 | The Reinforced Earth Company | Earthen work with wire mesh facing |
US5531547A (en) * | 1993-10-20 | 1996-07-02 | Kyokado Engineering Co., Ltd. | Reinforced earth construction |
US5417523A (en) * | 1993-10-29 | 1995-05-23 | Scales; John | Connector and method for engaging soil-reinforcing grid and earth retaining wall |
US5456554A (en) * | 1994-01-07 | 1995-10-10 | Colorado Transportation Institute | Independently adjustable facing panels for mechanically stabilized earth wall |
USD366191S (en) * | 1994-01-24 | 1996-01-16 | Gay G Thomas | Lawn edge |
US5533839A (en) * | 1994-02-17 | 1996-07-09 | Kyokado Engineering Co., Ltd. | Wall surface structure of reinforced earth structure |
US5522682A (en) * | 1994-03-02 | 1996-06-04 | The Tensar Corporation | Modular wall block system and grid connection device for use therewith |
US5702208A (en) * | 1994-06-02 | 1997-12-30 | Hilfiker; William K. | Grid-locked block panel system |
US5820305A (en) * | 1994-06-02 | 1998-10-13 | Taylor; Thomas P. | T-block wall system |
US5484235A (en) * | 1994-06-02 | 1996-01-16 | Hilfiker; William K. | Retaining wall system |
US5525014A (en) * | 1994-07-05 | 1996-06-11 | Brown; Richard L. | Horizontally-yielding earth stabilizing structure |
US5582492A (en) * | 1995-10-18 | 1996-12-10 | Doyle, Jr.; Henry G. | Method and apparatus for an anchored earth restraining wall |
USD393989S (en) * | 1996-03-08 | 1998-05-05 | Groves George D | Vegetation barrier |
US6345934B1 (en) * | 1996-04-15 | 2002-02-12 | Jean-Marc Jailloux | Earth structure and method for constructing with supports having rearwardly located portions |
US5722799A (en) * | 1996-05-23 | 1998-03-03 | Hilfiker; William K. | Wire earthen retention wall with separate face panel and soil reinforcement elements |
US5733072A (en) * | 1996-07-31 | 1998-03-31 | William K. Hilfiker | Wirewall with stiffened high wire density face |
USD433291S (en) * | 1996-10-09 | 2000-11-07 | Shamoon Ellis N | Garden edging |
US5749680A (en) * | 1996-11-05 | 1998-05-12 | William K. Hilfiker | Wire mat connector |
US5951209A (en) * | 1996-11-25 | 1999-09-14 | Societe Civile Des Brevets Henri C. Vidal | Earthen work with wire mesh facing |
US6086288A (en) * | 1997-07-18 | 2000-07-11 | Ssl, L.L.C. | Systems and methods for connecting retaining wall panels to buried mesh |
US6024516A (en) * | 1997-08-05 | 2000-02-15 | Taylor; Thomas P. | System for securing a face panel to an earthen formation |
US5975809A (en) * | 1997-11-07 | 1999-11-02 | Taylor; Thomas P. | Apparatus and method for securing soil reinforcing elements to earthen retaining wall components |
US6186703B1 (en) * | 1998-03-12 | 2001-02-13 | Shaw Technologies | Mechanical interlocking means for retaining wall |
US5975810A (en) * | 1998-04-01 | 1999-11-02 | Taylor; Thomas P. | Geo-grid anchor |
US20030108385A1 (en) * | 2001-12-10 | 2003-06-12 | Legrand S.P.A. | Joining clamp for a mesh cable tray and a connecting device comprising such a joining clamp |
US6802675B2 (en) * | 2002-05-31 | 2004-10-12 | Reinforced Earth Company | Two stage wall connector |
US20040018061A1 (en) * | 2002-07-26 | 2004-01-29 | Jansson Jan Erik | Concrete module for retaining wall and improved retaining wall |
Cited By (17)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US8496411B2 (en) | 2008-06-04 | 2013-07-30 | T & B Structural Systems Llc | Two stage mechanically stabilized earth wall system |
US9605402B2 (en) | 2009-01-14 | 2017-03-28 | Thomas P. Taylor | Retaining wall soil reinforcing connector and method |
US8632277B2 (en) | 2009-01-14 | 2014-01-21 | T & B Structural Systems Llc | Retaining wall soil reinforcing connector and method |
US8393829B2 (en) | 2010-01-08 | 2013-03-12 | T&B Structural Systems Llc | Wave anchor soil reinforcing connector and method |
US8632279B2 (en) | 2010-01-08 | 2014-01-21 | T & B Structural Systems Llc | Splice for a soil reinforcing element or connector |
US8632282B2 (en) * | 2010-06-17 | 2014-01-21 | T & B Structural Systems Llc | Mechanically stabilized earth system and method |
US20120224927A1 (en) * | 2010-06-17 | 2012-09-06 | T & B Structural Systems Llc | Mechanically stabilized earth welded wire facing connection system and method |
US8632280B2 (en) * | 2010-06-17 | 2014-01-21 | T & B Structural Systems Llc | Mechanically stabilized earth welded wire facing connection system and method |
US8632278B2 (en) * | 2010-06-17 | 2014-01-21 | T & B Structural Systems Llc | Mechanically stabilized earth welded wire facing connection system and method |
US20110311317A1 (en) * | 2010-06-17 | 2011-12-22 | T & B Structural Systems Llc | Soil reinforcing element for a mechanically stabilized earth structure |
US8632281B2 (en) | 2010-06-17 | 2014-01-21 | T & B Structural Systems Llc | Mechanically stabilized earth system and method |
US20110311318A1 (en) * | 2010-06-17 | 2011-12-22 | T & B Structural Systems Llc | Mechanically stabilized earth system and method |
US8734059B2 (en) * | 2010-06-17 | 2014-05-27 | T&B Structural Systems Llc | Soil reinforcing element for a mechanically stabilized earth structure |
US20110311314A1 (en) * | 2010-06-17 | 2011-12-22 | T & B Structural Systems Llc | Mechanically stabilized earth welded wire facing connection system and method |
US20130136544A1 (en) * | 2011-11-30 | 2013-05-30 | EarthTec International LLC | Mechanical earth stabilizing system including reinforcing members with enhanced soil shear resistance |
US9322143B1 (en) | 2014-04-09 | 2016-04-26 | Desmond D. Bryan | Retaining wall clamping assembly |
US11519151B2 (en) | 2020-04-23 | 2022-12-06 | The Taylor Ip Group Llc | Connector for soil reinforcing and method of manufacturing |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2011084986A2 (en) | 2011-07-14 |
WO2011084986A3 (en) | 2015-07-16 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US20110170958A1 (en) | Soil reinforcing connector and method of constructing a mechanically stabilized earth structure | |
US8393829B2 (en) | Wave anchor soil reinforcing connector and method | |
AU2011268417B2 (en) | Mechanically stabilized earth welded wire wall facing system and method | |
US8734059B2 (en) | Soil reinforcing element for a mechanically stabilized earth structure | |
US8632277B2 (en) | Retaining wall soil reinforcing connector and method | |
US7722296B1 (en) | Retaining wall soil reinforcing connector and method | |
WO2011084989A2 (en) | Splice for a soil reinforcing element or connector | |
CA2802521C (en) | Mechanically stabilized earth welded wire wall facing system and method | |
US8177458B2 (en) | Mechanically stabilized earth connection apparatus and method | |
US11519151B2 (en) | Connector for soil reinforcing and method of manufacturing | |
US8632281B2 (en) | Mechanically stabilized earth system and method | |
US8632280B2 (en) | Mechanically stabilized earth welded wire facing connection system and method | |
US20150132070A1 (en) | Mechanically stabilized earth system and method |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: T & B STRUCTURAL SYSTEMS LLC, TEXAS Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:TAYLOR, THOMAS P.;REEL/FRAME:025319/0098 Effective date: 20101105 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |