Protection of penetration meter

Abstract

A method and apparatus for an improved cone penetration experiment by providing a support sleeve providing lateral support for a cone penetration instrument assembly, interlocking elements for use in the support sleeve, a system for performing a cone penetration experiment, and a method of performing a cone penetration experiment. The invention further relates to improvements in sustainability and environmental development: we together create a safe and livable world with their hands.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a support sleeve for providing lateral support to a penetrometer assembly, and more particularly, to an interlocking element for the support sleeve, a system for performing a cone penetration test, and a method of performing a cone penetration test. Unlocking the understanding from geographical data, the present invention further relates to improvements in sustainability and environmental development: we work together to create a safe and livable world. Background Art

[0002] There is a general and ongoing need to improve the quality and efficiency of subsurface testing to determine the properties of soil at a particular depth. These subsurface properties may be soil type, density, water content, shear modulus, etc., which can be used for foundation planning and / or management. These soil properties may play a crucial role in, for example, infrastructure projects, but can also be used to map soil properties for different purposes, such as environmental projects, coastal resilience projects, or dam integrity projects. For example, to determine what type of foundation is required for a particular building or infrastructure project, the soil type and its properties must be investigated.

[0003] One method of performing such tests is known as the cone penetration test. The cone penetration test or penetrometer test (CPT) is a geotechnical investigation method for determining soil and groundwater properties, in which a penetrometer probe is pushed into the soil for measurement. Typical parameters measured by the probe are cone tip resistance, sleeve friction, and pore water pressure. Generally, the test method involves pushing the instrumented penetrometer into the ground at a controlled rate, with its tip facing downwards.

[0004] Known methods of performing such CPT utilize a penetrometer assembly consisting of multiple rod segments that form a string of rods, with the penetrometer located at the tip capable of measuring at the desired depth. These rods are used to transmit the thrust to the penetrometer at the end of the string of rods. Thus, the penetrometer assembly refers to at least one rod and a penetrometer connected to the end of the first rod. The first rod segment is pushed into the ground using a hydraulic jack. Then, the second rod segment is positioned and connected to the first rod segment, and the assembly is further pushed into the ground using a hydraulic jack. This process is repeated until the desired depth is reached, or the maximum thrust is achieved.

[0005] As the length of the rod increases, the pressure provided to the top segment to insert the rod into the soil typically increases, thereby increasing the risk of instrument failure. Such failure may be due to lateral buckling of the rod. This problem typically occurs when the penetrometer assembly, especially the rod, has insufficient lateral support relative to the penetration force required to push the penetrometer. For example, a small deviation from the ideal vertical penetration direction can cause buckling and failure of the penetrometer assembly. Such buckling mainly occurs in the rod of the penetrometer assembly.

[0006] This problem is particularly relevant when a soft soil layer overlies a harder soil layer. In such cases, the soft soil layer cannot provide sufficient lateral support for the penetrometer assembly to prevent buckling when the penetrometer reaches the underlying hard soil layer. Due to the lateral pressure acting on the penetrometer assembly, the hard soil layer typically allows a greater penetration force to be applied to the penetrometer. Thus, the hard soil layer provides support for the penetrometer assembly as the assembly cannot easily move outwards through the displacement of the hard soil layer. On the other hand, the soft soil layer covering the hard soil layer cannot provide such lateral pressure while still requiring a large penetration force to break through the underlying hard soil layer. Thus, buckling of the penetrometer assembly, particularly the rod, is a persistent problem, especially in such soil compositions.

[0007] Known solutions to limit buckling failures are to provide a casing for the penetrometer assembly that can provide the lateral support that may be lacking in soft soils in order to reduce the likelihood of buckling. Such a casing is provided in segments similar to one or more rods of the penetrometer assembly and is arranged around the rod segments of the penetrometer assembly as needed to provide additional lateral support to the penetrometer assembly. Such casing systems typically consist of pipe segments connected by threaded distal ends.

[0008] The provision of such casing systems is very time-consuming and thus increases operating costs. As a result, the use frequency of the casing systems is reduced, leading to an increased risk of penetrometer failures (especially rod failures) and associated costs.

[0009] Recent advancements in CPT systems have stemmed from the development of coiled CPT systems, where the penetrometer assembly is not provided by multiple rod segments but instead by a continuous rod wound into a coiled shape. Thus, the coiled CPT system eliminates the need to segment the penetrometer assembly into multiple rods, thereby shortening the operation time and improving the measurement results as the testing is no longer interrupted.

[0010] However, in such coiled CPT systems, known casing systems cannot be provided as the pipe segments of the casing cannot be provided to a continuous coiled CPT system with a continuous rod as it is not a segmented system. Thus, the coiled CPT system can only be used when the risk of penetrometer buckling, especially rod buckling, is relatively low. In other cases, due to the lack of lateral support related to the penetration force, the continuous rod of the coiled CPT system cannot be used at the required depth.

[0011] The prior art of known coiled CPT systems does not provide a solution for providing lateral support to the penetrometer assembly to prevent buckling failures.

[0012] Therefore, there is a need for improved support casings and methods for conducting cone penetration tests. Summary of the Invention

[0013] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a support sleeve for providing lateral support to a penetrometer assembly is provided. The penetrometer assembly includes a penetrometer and at least one penetrometer rod. In an advantageous embodiment, the penetrometer assembly may include an elongate rod arranged for use in a coiled CPT system. The penetrometer is attached to the distal end of the penetrometer rod to form the penetrometer assembly. The support sleeve of the present invention includes at least two interlocking elements, the at least two interlocking elements including a receiving portion for at least partially receiving and accommodating the penetrometer assembly, and a locking mechanism arranged to connect the at least two interlocking elements such that the at least two interlocking elements are laterally interlocked. That is, the interlocking elements may advantageously be laterally interlocked such that they are not permitted to move in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the assembly.

[0014] In one embodiment, the receiving portion of the interlocking element may be arranged to form a cylindrical sleeve space having a substantially circular cross-section. The cylindrical sleeve space is arranged to at least partially laterally surround the penetrometer assembly as the penetrometer assembly is advanced into the soil. In one embodiment, the cylindrical sleeve space may be arranged to completely surround the penetrometer assembly as the penetrometer assembly is advanced into the soil. The cylindrical sleeve space may be arranged to laterally surround at least a portion of the penetrometer rod and / or the penetrometer provided at the distal end of the penetrometer rod. In one embodiment, the support sleeve may be provided on a penetrometer assembly including a single rod arranged for a coiled CPT system and a penetrometer connected to the distal end of the rod. In another embodiment, the support sleeve may be provided on a penetrometer assembly including a plurality of penetrometers connected together to form an elongate penetrometer rod, and the penetrometer is provided at the distal end of the first penetrometer rod. That is, the present disclosure provides a support sleeve that may advantageously be applied to a coiled CPT system, but may also be applied to a conventional segmented CPT system that requires additional lateral support.

[0015] Advantageously, by providing the support sleeve according to the present invention, a coiled penetrometer assembly or a segmented penetrometer assembly may be equipped with a sleeve to support the penetrometer assembly and prevent it from buckling laterally. Specifically, since the interlocking elements of the support sleeve are arranged to enclose the penetrometer assembly as the penetrometer assembly is advanced into the soil during CPT, it is not necessary to provide it to the penetrometer assembly in segments. Known sleeve systems cannot be provided to a coiled CPT system because the pipe segments of the sleeve cannot be arranged around the elongate rod due to it being a continuous system. The support sleeve provided by the present disclosure alleviates this problem by using the at least two interlocking elements to define a cylindrical sleeve space arranged to laterally enclose the penetrometer assembly.

[0016] Thus, even in cases where the risk of buckling of the penetrometer assembly is relatively high, such as, for example, when a soft soil layer overlies a hard soil layer, a coiled CPT system can be used. The lateral support provided by the support casing to the penetrometer assembly limits the risk of buckling, especially in areas where the soil itself cannot provide sufficient lateral support to the penetrometer assembly to withstand the axial pressure applied to it.

[0017] The at least two interlocking elements being laterally interlocked means that the interlocking elements cannot be disengaged from each other by lateral movement alone. "Lateral" herein refers to being substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal extension direction of the penetrometer assembly or the axial direction of the relevant components of the penetrometer assembly. Thus, when two or more interlocking elements are provided such that the penetrometer assembly is disposed within the cylindrical casing space, accidental separation of the interlocking elements is prevented.

[0018] Separation of the interlocking elements can be achieved in the following ways: for example, sliding one interlocking element relative to the other along the axial direction; rotating one interlocking element relative to the other or relative to the penetrometer assembly; or by means of separating fixtures, screws, etc. Once the interlocking elements are disposed around the penetrometer assembly, the locking mechanism secures the interlocking elements in place to prevent accidental separation.

[0019] In one embodiment, the interlocking elements may comprise a metallic material, advantageously steel. In one embodiment, the interlocking elements may be coated with a wear-resistant coating, such as but not limited to ceramics, alumina ceramics, silicon carbide ceramics, zirconia ceramics, cast basalt, refractory cement, epoxy wear-resistant compounds, wear-resistant steel, tungsten carbide, thermal spray coatings, etc. Alternatively, or additionally, the interlocking elements are heat-treated, for example to increase the hardness of the material. In one embodiment, the interlocking elements have an axial length between about 2 cm and 40 cm, advantageously between about 4 cm and 20 cm, more advantageously between about 6 cm and 15 cm, further more advantageously between about 7 cm and 10 cm, and further more advantageously about 8 cm between the top end and the bottom end.

[0020] In one embodiment, the cylindrical casing space defined by the receiving portions of the at least two interlocking elements defines an inner diameter between about 10 mm and 150 mm, advantageously between about 20 mm and 100 mm, more advantageously between about 30 mm and 60 mm, and further more advantageously between about 40 mm and 50 mm.

[0021] In one embodiment, when interlocked, the at least two interlocking elements define an outer diameter between about 20 mm and 180 mm, advantageously between about 40 mm and 140 mm, more advantageously between 50 mm and 90 mm, and further more advantageously between about 60 mm and 80 mm.

[0022] In one embodiment, each of the at least two interlocking elements defines a semi-cylindrical shape such that the two interlocking elements define a cylindrical sleeve space. In one embodiment, the interlocking element defines a semi-cylindrical shape such that the receiving portion is arranged to surround half of the cone penetrometer assembly. Alternatively, three or more interlocking elements may be provided to form a cylindrical sleeve space. For example, three interlocking elements may be provided such that each of the three interlocking elements advantageously defines one-third of the full cylinder diameter. That is, the three interlocking elements may define a complete circle to define a cylindrical sleeve space.

[0023] In this embodiment, three or more interlocking elements may be provided such that at least two of the three interlocking elements form a staggered arrangement in the axial direction. The cylindrical sleeve space may be composed of a plurality of interlocking elements. It is most advantageous to have two interlocking elements to laterally define the cylindrical sleeve space because while achieving the beneficial effects of the present invention, the number of interlocking components is minimized, thus simplifying the assembly mechanism.

[0024] In one embodiment, the support sleeve includes a first plurality of interlocking elements provided in a first string and a second plurality of interlocking elements provided in a second string. In the context of the present invention, a string should be understood as at least two longitudinally connected interlocking elements. The interlocking elements provided in the first string and the second string are longitudinally connected to form a string. The interlocking elements longitudinally connected to form the first string and the second string may be interlocked with opposite interlocking elements. That is, the interlocking elements provided in the first string may be interlocked with the opposite interlocking elements provided in the second string. Therefore, the interlocking elements in the string are longitudinally connected to form a string and are arranged to be laterally interlocked with the interlocking elements of the opposite string. In one embodiment, the support sleeve includes at least two strings of interlocking elements. In one embodiment, the support sleeve includes a first string of interlocking elements, a second string of interlocking elements, and a third string of interlocking elements. The interlocking elements provided in these three strings are longitudinally connected to form a string and are arranged to be laterally interlocked to form a cylindrical sleeve space, which is arranged to surround the CPT assembly and engage with the CPT assembly.

[0025] Advantageously, the first string and the second string may be composed of interlocking elements positioned in the axial direction such that the top end of the first interlocking element is located below the bottom end of the second interlocking element. The first string and the second string may include interlocking elements that are not physically connected but are only held together when they are advanced around the cone penetrometer into the soil.

[0026] Advantageously, when the cone penetrometer assembly is advanced into the soil, the first string and the second string may be arranged to be provided around the cone penetrometer assembly such that the interlocking elements of the first string are interlocked with the interlocking elements of the second string.

[0027] By providing interlocking elements on a first string and a second string, the interlocking elements can engage therewith when the penetrometer is advanced into the soil. The two strings are constituted by axially positioned - i.e., positioned one above the other - interlocking elements, and advantageously, when the penetrometer assembly is advanced into the soil, the two strings are respectively disposed on both sides of the penetrometer assembly. In an advantageous embodiment, the two strings can allow their interlocking elements to engage with each other in a zipper-like manner, such that the support sleeve surrounds from opposite sides of the advancing penetrometer assembly, thereby forming a cylindrical sleeve space around the penetrometer assembly.

[0028] In one embodiment, the first and / or second string can be formed by interlocking elements axially connected by a connecting mechanism, wherein the connecting mechanism attaches the top end of the first interlocking element to the bottom end of the second interlocking element to form a string.

[0029] The interlocking elements can be advantageously connected such that each string contains a plurality of axially aligned interlocking elements. The connecting mechanism between the top end of the first interlocking element and the bottom end of the second interlocking element can be any suitable connecting mechanism. The connecting mechanism can be provided by a flexible connection between the interlocking elements, for example, a rubber or other flexible seal between the top and bottom ends of the two interlocking elements. The connecting mechanism can also be provided by a mechanical connection, such as a pivot connection made of a pin. The connecting mechanism can be provided by nuts and bolts, rivets or other suitable fastening means.

[0030] In one embodiment, the top end of the interlocking element can include a protrusion having a through hole perpendicularly oriented with respect to the direction of the penetrometer assembly and / or the axial extension direction of the receiving portion. The bottom end of the interlocking element includes an orifice defined between two opposing protrusions, each protrusion having a similarly oriented through hole, and the orifice is arranged to receive the protrusion at the top end of the interlocking element. When the protrusion at the top end of the first interlocking element is disposed in the orifice between the two protrusions at the bottom end of the second interlocking element, a pin can be advanced through the through hole of the protrusion, thereby connecting the top end and the bottom end of the interlocking element together, so that they allow relative rotation between the two interlocking elements.

[0031] In one embodiment, the connecting mechanism between the interlocking elements in the string can be formed such that only a single degree of freedom of movement is allowed between the interlocking elements. In an advantageous embodiment, the connecting mechanism between the interlocking elements can only allow relative rotation of the interlocking elements with respect to another interlocking element, and the rotation is allowed to occur around the connecting mechanism. Advantageously, rotation is allowed such that the top end of the interlocking element can move away from the penetrometer assembly while the bottom end of the interlocking element remains in place. Thus, through the rotation of the interlocking elements relative to each other, the string can be opened like a zipper. Similarly, the rotation of the interlocking elements allows the string to close, such that the penetrometer assembly is enclosed when it is advanced into the soil.

[0032] In one embodiment, the support sleeve may include three or more strings, each string having a plurality of interconnected interlocking elements, wherein the interlocking elements are arranged to enclose the penetrometer assembly within its cylindrical sleeve space. In such an embodiment, the three or more strings open and close similarly, advantageously by one-way rotation between the interlocking elements. The three or more strings are then arranged to allow their interlocking elements to enclose around the penetrometer assembly.

[0033] In one embodiment, the support sleeve may further include end elements that connect to the ends of the first string and the second string such that the end elements connect the first string to the second string. Advantageously, the end elements further include a connection mechanism arranged to connect the end elements to the first string and the second string.

[0034] By providing end elements that connect the first string and the second string, a starting point for connection is provided for the engagement of the penetrometer assembly with the strings. The end elements thus align the first string and the second string and make the start-up process of the penetrometer test more efficient.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the at least two interlocking elements may be arranged to interlock such that the interlocking elements define an axial offset relative to each other. Advantageously, it causes the top portion of the first interlocking element of the at least two interlocking elements to be arranged to engage with the bottom portion of the second interlocking element of the at least two interlocking elements.

[0036] By providing interlocking elements such that they define an axial offset, each interlocking element interlocks with at least two other interlocking elements. This provides a robust arrangement as it eliminates the structure's dependence on the axial connection mechanism of two interlocking elements in the string. If the interlocking elements do not define an axial offset relative to each other, a pair of laterally opposed interlocking elements only connect to each other and not to other interlocking elements.

[0037] In this case, the tensile force on the support sleeve is transmitted to the axial connection mechanism between the interlocking elements. Therefore, the axial connection mechanism needs to be manufactured more robustly to withstand this tensile force. The offset between the interlocking elements on the opposing strings reduces the dependence on the axial load on the connection mechanism.

[0038] In one embodiment, the locking mechanism includes at least one protrusion extending from an interlocking element, which is arranged to engage with an orifice of another interlocking element. In one embodiment, the at least one protrusion extending from the interlocking element includes a stepped profile. Similarly, in such an embodiment, the orifice arranged to receive the protrusion also includes a stepped profile. The stepped profile can advantageously define a height difference between the protrusion and the orifice when moving outward from the receiving portion. Thus, two laterally interlocked elements cannot be separated from each other by lateral movement.

[0039] Two laterally opposed interlocking elements can be interlocked by the locking mechanism such that the protrusion of one interlocking element engages with the orifice in the other interlocking element. In one embodiment, the protrusion can be located on an axially extending straight edge, which is arranged to face the axially extending straight edge of another interlocking element including the orifice. Then, the protrusion of the locking mechanism engages with the orifice of the opposing interlocking element. In such an embodiment, some interlocking elements may only have orifices, while some other interlocking elements only have protrusions.

[0040] In one embodiment, the locking mechanism may further include at least one orifice provided on the interlocking element, which is arranged to receive the protrusion of another interlocking element. In such an embodiment, the locking mechanism includes a protrusion and an orifice arranged to receive another protrusion. This enables the interlocking elements to be produced simultaneously without the need to produce, for example, male and female versions. Advantageously, each interlocking element includes the locking mechanism.

[0041] In one embodiment, the protrusion may extend outward in an upward direction towards the top end of the interlocking element. Advantageously, the orifice extends inward in an upward direction towards the top end of another interlocking element.

[0042] By causing the protrusion to extend outward and in an upward direction towards the top end of the interlocking element, lateral displacement of the interlocking element is prevented when the locking mechanism interlocks the interlocking elements.

[0043] In one embodiment, the interlocking elements can be laterally interlocked to form a cylindrical sleeve space having a substantially circular cross-section. Thus, the cylindrical sleeve space is hollow to enable a penetrometer to be placed within the cylindrical sleeve space.

[0044] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an interlocking element for a support sleeve according to any of the embodiments disclosed herein, the interlocking element including a receiving portion for at least partially receiving and accommodating a penetrometer assembly, and a locking mechanism arranged to laterally interlock the interlocking element to another interlocking element.

[0045] Advantageously, the receiving portion of the interlocking element is arranged to form part of a cylindrical sleeve space having a substantially circular cross-section. In one embodiment, when the penetrometer assembly is advanced into the soil, the cylindrical sleeve space can be arranged to laterally surround the penetrometer assembly.

[0046] In one embodiment, the interlocking element may define a semi-cylindrical shape such that the receiving portion is arranged to surround half of the penetrometer assembly. In additional or alternative embodiments, the locking mechanism may include at least one protrusion extending from the interlocking element, the protrusion being arranged to engage with an orifice of another interlocking element. In one embodiment, the protrusion may extend outward from the interlocking element in an upward direction to the top end of the interlocking element.

[0047] In one embodiment, the interlocking element may further include an orifice arranged to receive a protrusion extending from another interlocking element.

[0048] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a system for performing a cone penetration test, comprising: a penetrometer assembly including an elongate penetrometer rod and a penetrometer connected to the distal end of the elongate penetrometer rod, the penetrometer rod being wound into a substantially circular shape; a bending device arranged to straighten or bend the penetrometer rod, the bending device being arranged to deform the penetrometer rod from its substantially circular shape into a substantially straight shape and from the substantially straight shape into a substantially circular shape, and to position the penetrometer assembly above the soil to be penetrated; a first sleeve guide and a second sleeve guide located on opposite sides of the penetrometer assembly; a first plurality of interlocking members according to any one of the embodiments disclosed herein, arranged in a first string above the first sleeve guide; and a second plurality of interlocking members according to any one of the embodiments disclosed herein, arranged in a second string above the second sleeve guide. Advantageously, when the penetrometer assembly is advanced into the soil, the first plurality of interlocking members and the second plurality of interlocking members are arranged to interlock to enclose the penetrometer assembly.

[0049] In one embodiment, the first sleeve guide and / or the second sleeve guide may be a first sleeve roller and / or a second sleeve roller such that the strings of interlocking members are arranged around the sleeve rollers.

[0050] In one embodiment, the system may further include a drive system arranged to provide a penetration force to the penetrometer assembly and / or the support sleeve. Advantageously, the cone penetration force is between about 1 ton and 40 tons, more advantageously between about 5 and 35 tons, and even more advantageously between about 15 and 25 tons. Advantageously, the drive system is arranged to continuously advance the penetrometer assembly at a constant speed.

[0051] The drive system can be arranged to clamp the penetrometer assembly by a first clamp and a second clamp located below the first clamp. The first clamp can engage with the penetrometer rod to drive the assembly into the ground by movement in the downward direction. When reaching the end position of the first clamp, the second clamp engages with the rod while the first clamp disengages from the rod. Then, the first clamp moves in the upward direction in the disengaged state, while the second clamp moves in the downward direction while engaging with the rod. When reaching the end position of the second clamp, the second clamp can disengage, the first clamp can engage with the rod, and the process can be repeated. Alternatively, one of the clamps can be static such that it engages with the rod while the other clamp disengages while moving upward and then re-engages with the rod. Other drive systems can be similarly applied to systems for performing cone penetration tests.

[0052] In one embodiment, the drive system can be set to drive the penetrometer assembly into the ground separately from the support casing. A separate casing drive system can be provided to drive the support casing into the soil separately or simultaneously with the penetrometer assembly. The casing drive system operates in a manner similar to the drive system of the penetrometer assembly. In such an embodiment, a bending device is provided above the drive system so that the penetrometer rod is straightened when being handled by the drive system. Below the drive system, first and / or second casing guides are located on opposite sides of the penetrometer assembly. A casing drive system is provided below the casing guides, which is set to engage with the support casing once its interlocking elements engage with each other to enclose the penetrometer assembly.

[0053] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a method of performing a cone penetration test is provided, the method comprising the steps of: providing a coiled penetrometer assembly coiled into a substantially circular shape; providing a support casing according to any of the embodiments disclosed herein; advancing the penetrometer assembly into the soil; and wrapping the casing around the penetrometer assembly while the penetrometer assembly is being advanced into the soil.

[0054] In one embodiment, the penetrometer assembly can be advanced into the soil without the support casing. Once the risk of buckling is determined, the penetrometer assembly is withdrawn from the soil. Then, the support casing is applied to the penetrometer assembly when the penetrometer assembly is advanced into the soil again.

[0055] In one embodiment, the penetrometer assembly can be advanced into the soil together with the support casing. A drive system can be provided to drive the penetrometer assembly and the support casing. Alternatively, a drive system can be provided for the penetrometer and a drive system can be provided for the support casing. These systems operate in a similar manner.

[0056] In one embodiment, the penetrometer assembly may be advanced with the support casing to a predetermined point. After reaching the predetermined point, the penetrometer assembly may be further pushed into the soil while the support casing remains in place. In one embodiment, the predetermined point may be a depth in the soil where the soil is harder than the soil of the hard portion covering the soil. In this embodiment, the penetrometer assembly is supported by the support casing in the soft portion of the soil, and below the soft soil, lateral support is provided by the hard soil itself.

[0057] Various embodiments of the present disclosure will be discussed in detail below. Although specific implementations are discussed, it should be understood that this is for illustrative purposes only. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other components and configurations may be used without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the following description and drawings are for illustrative purposes only and should not be considered limiting. To provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure, many specific details are described. However, in some cases, well-known or conventional details are not described to avoid obscuring the description. References to embodiments in this disclosure may refer to the same embodiment or any other embodiment. Therefore, such references are related to at least one embodiment herein.

[0058] Reference to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The phrase "in one embodiment" appearing throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it necessarily an independent or alternative embodiment mutually exclusive of other embodiments. Additionally, various features are described herein that may be present in some embodiments and not in others.

[0059] The terms used in this specification generally have their ordinary meanings in the art, in the context of the present disclosure, and in the particular context in which each term is used. Any one or more of the terms discussed herein may have alternative languages and synonyms, and no special significance should be attributed to whether a term is elaborated or discussed in detail herein. In some cases, synonyms for certain terms are provided. Listing one or more synonyms does not exclude the use of other synonyms. Examples anywhere in this specification (including examples of any of the terms discussed herein) are for reference only and are not intended to further limit the scope and meaning of the present disclosure or any example term. Similarly, the present disclosure is not limited to the various embodiments given in this specification.

[0060] Examples of instruments, devices, methods, and their related results according to embodiments of the present disclosure are listed below, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. Note that titles or subtitles may be used in the examples for the convenience of the reader, but this should in no way limit the scope of the present disclosure. Unless otherwise defined, the meanings of technical and scientific terms used herein are the same as those commonly understood by those of ordinary skill in the field to which the present disclosure pertains. In case of conflict, the present document (including the definitions) shall prevail.

[0061] Other features and advantages of the present disclosure will be set forth in the following description, and some of the features and advantages will be apparent from the description, or can be learned by practicing the principles disclosed herein. The features and advantages of the present disclosure can be realized and obtained by the means and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. These and other features of the present disclosure will be more fully apparent from the following description and the appended claims, or can be learned by practicing the principles disclosed herein. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0062] To describe the manner in which the above and other advantages and features of the present disclosure can be achieved, the principles briefly described above will be described in more detail with reference to specific embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that these drawings only depict exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and should not be considered as limiting its scope. By using the drawings, the principles herein are described and explained more specifically and in detail, wherein:

[0063] Figure 1 is a side view of an embodiment of the present invention, showing a support sleeve in a partially open position;

[0064] Figure 2 is a side view of an embodiment of the present invention, showing a support sleeve in a closed position;

[0065] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the present invention, showing a support sleeve in a partially open position around a penetrometer assembly;

[0066] Figure 4 shows a three-dimensional view of an embodiment of the present invention, which shows an interlocking element;

[0067] Figure 5 shows a three-dimensional view of an embodiment of the present invention, which shows an interlocking element;

[0068] Figure 6 shows a three-dimensional view of an embodiment of the present invention, which shows a terminal element; and

[0069] Figure 7 shows a side view of an embodiment of the present invention, showing a system for performing a cone penetration test. Detailed implementation mode

[0070] The following is a description of certain embodiments of the present invention, given by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0071] See Figure 1 , which shows a side view of the support sleeve 10. The support sleeve includes a plurality of interlocking elements 2. The interlocking elements 2 are positioned such that two opposite interlocking elements 2 form a cylindrical sleeve space 22, which is arranged to laterally surround the penetrometer assembly 11, as Figure 3 shown. The interlocking element 2 includes a receiving portion 21, which is arranged to at least partially receive and accommodate the penetrometer assembly.

[0072] When the interlocking elements 2 are interlocked laterally, the receiving portion 21 forms a cylindrical sleeve space 22, which is arranged to accommodate the penetrometer assembly 11. The illustrated embodiment of the present invention includes two strings of interlocking elements. The first string 4 is shown on the left side and the second string 5 is shown on the right side. Both the first string 4 and the second string 5 are composed of a plurality of interlocking elements 2, and these interlocking elements 2 are connected to each other by a connecting mechanism 6.

[0073] The connecting mechanism 6 allows the interlocking elements 2 to rotate relative to each other in a direction axial to the penetrometer assembly 11, so that the first string 4 and the second string 5 can be opened to allow the penetrometer assembly 11 to be positioned in the cylindrical sleeve space 22 formed by the receiving portions 21 of the interlocking elements 2. The first string 4 and the second string 5 are interlocked in a zipper manner to form a closed sleeve around the penetrometer assembly 11.

[0074] The interlocking elements 2 of the support sleeve 10 include a locking mechanism 3 to lock the interlocking elements 2 to each other. Specifically, the locking mechanism 3 is arranged to interlock the laterally opposite interlocking elements 2 to each other. As shown in the figure, the interlocking elements 2 are engaged with each other in such a way that the interlocking elements cannot be removed laterally without rotating relative to each other. Therefore, when the interlocking elements 2 are interlocked, they can only be unlocked from each other by rotating the top interlocking element 2 engaged with the opposite interlocking element 2.

[0075] Now refer to Figure 2 , which shows a side view of the support sleeve 10 in a closed configuration. As shown in the figure, the locking mechanism 3 interlocks the interlocking elements 3 so that they cannot be removed only by lateral movement. Due to the connecting mechanism 6, the rotation of the interlocking elements 2 relative to each other allows the interlocking elements 2 to be unlocked.

[0076] In the illustrated embodiment, the interlocking elements 2 are arranged to interlock such that an axial offset is defined between the interlocking elements 2. Accordingly, the top portion 23 of the first interlocking element 2 is arranged to engage with the bottom portion 24 of another interlocking element 2. Thus, each interlocking element 2 engages with two other interlocking elements 2, which improves the structural integrity of the support sleeve 10.

[0077] Now referring to Figure 3 , a cross-sectional view of a support sleeve 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. The support sleeve 10 is disposed around a penetrometer assembly 11, which includes a penetrometer 12 and a rod 13. Advantageously, the rod 13 is an elongate rod that is disposed within a cylindrical sleeve space 22 formed by the receiving portions 21 of the interlocking elements 2.

[0078] As shown, the penetrometer assembly 11 is arranged to extend through the end element 7 of the support sleeve 10. This ensures that the sensors in the penetrometer 12 can still measure appropriate soil properties while the rod 13 is supported by the support sleeve.

[0079] Now referring to Figure 4 and Figure 5 , a three-dimensional view of an embodiment of the interlocking element 2 is shown. The interlocking element 2 includes a connecting member 6, which includes a protrusion 6A with a through-hole at the top of the interlocking element 2 and an orifice 6C between two protrusions 6B with through-holes at the bottom of the interlocking element 2. This configuration can also be reversed, with the orifice provided at the top of the interlocking element 2.

[0080] The locking mechanism 3 of the interlocking element 2 includes two protrusions 31 located at the top portion 23 of the interlocking element 2 and two orifices 32 located at the bottom portion 24 of the interlocking element 2. The protrusions 31 of the interlocking element 2 are arranged to engage with the orifices 32 of another interlocking element 2 so that the elements 2 are laterally interlocked, thereby forming a cylindrical sleeve space 22 to laterally support the penetrometer assembly 11.

[0081] Now referring to Figure 6 , a three-dimensional view of an end element 7 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. The end element 7 is arranged to be connected to the ends of the first string 4 and the second string 5 such that the end element 7 connects the first string 4 to the second string 5. The end element 7 includes a connecting mechanism 6 to connect to the interlocking elements 2 of the first string 4 and the second string 5. The end element 7 also includes a tapered portion 71. The tapered portion 71 of the end element 7 advantageously reduces friction when the support sleeve 10 is advanced into the soil.

[0082] Now referring to Figure 7, showing a system 100 for conducting a cone penetration test. The system includes a penetrometer assembly 11, which includes an elongate penetrometer rod 13 and a penetrometer 12 connected to the distal end of the elongate penetrometer rod 13. The penetrometer rod 13 is wound into a generally circular shape.

[0083] The system further includes a bending device 101 arranged to straighten or bend the penetrometer rod 13. The bending device 101 is arranged such that the cone penetrometer rod 13 is deformed from its substantially circular shape to a substantially straight shape, or from a substantially straight shape to a substantially circular shape. The penetrometer assembly 11 is disposed above the soil 102 to be penetrated.

[0084] The system further includes a first casing guide 111 and a second casing guide 112. The first casing guide 111 and the second casing guide 112 are located on opposite sides of the penetrometer assembly 11.

[0085] The system further includes a first plurality of interlocking members according to any of the embodiments disclosed herein, which are provided in a first column 4 above the first casing guide 112, and further includes a second plurality of interlocking members according to any of the embodiments disclosed herein, which are provided in a second column 5 above the second casing guide 112.

[0086] When the penetrometer assembly 11 is advanced into the soil 102, the first plurality of interlocking members and the second plurality of interlocking members are arranged to interlock to surround the penetrometer assembly 11. A drive system 113 may be provided to drive the penetrometer assembly and the support casing.

[0087] The present invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments discussed above. It will be understood that these embodiments are subject to various modifications and alternatives well known to those skilled in the art.

[0088] In addition to the above, further modifications may be made to the structures and techniques described herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Accordingly, although specific embodiments have been described, these are merely examples and do not limit the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A support sleeve (10) for providing lateral support to a penetrometer assembly (11), comprising: at least two interlocking elements (2), said at least two interlocking elements (2) comprising a receiving portion (21) for at least partially receiving and accommodating the penetrometer assembly (11), and a locking mechanism (3) arranged to connect said at least two interlocking elements (2) such that said at least two interlocking elements (2) are laterally interlocked, wherein the receiving portion (21) of the interlocking element (2) is arranged to form a cylindrical sleeve space (22) having a substantially circular cross-section, and the cylindrical sleeve space (22) is arranged to laterally surround the penetrometer assembly (11) when the penetrometer assembly (11) is advanced into the soil.

2. The support sleeve (10) according to claim 1, wherein, The at least two interlocking elements (2) each define a semi-cylindrical shape such that two interlocking elements (2) define a cylindrical sleeve space (22).

3. The support sleeve (10) according to claim 1 or 2, said support sleeve (10) comprising a first plurality of interlocking elements (2) arranged in a first string (4) and a second plurality of interlocking elements (2) arranged in a second string (5), wherein the first string (4) and the second string (5) are formed by interlocking elements (2) positioned in an axial direction such that the top end (23) of a first interlocking element (2) is located below the bottom end (24) of a second interlocking element (2), Among them, and the first string (4) and the second string (5) are arranged to surround the penetrometer assembly (11) when the penetrometer assembly (11) is advanced into the soil such that the interlocking elements (2) of the first string (4) are interlocked with the interlocking elements (2) of the second string (5).

4. The support sleeve (10) according to claim 3, wherein, The first string (4) and / or the second string (5) are formed by interlocking elements (2) axially connected by a connecting mechanism (6), wherein the connecting mechanism (6) attaches the top end (23) of a first interlocking element (2) to the bottom end (24) of a second interlocking element (2) to form the string.

5. The support sleeve (10) according to claim 3 or 4, further comprising end elements (7) connected to the ends of the first string (4) and the ends of the second string (5) such that the end elements (7) connect the first string (4) to the second string (5).

6. The support sleeve (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The at least two interlocking elements (2) are arranged to interlock such that the interlocking elements (2) define an axial offset relative to each other such that the top portion of a first one of the at least two interlocking elements (2) is arranged to engage the bottom portion of a second one of the at least two interlocking elements (2).

7. The support sleeve (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The locking mechanism (3) comprises at least one protrusion (31) extending from the interlocking element (2), said protrusion (31) being arranged to engage an aperture (32) of another interlocking element (2).

8. The support sleeve (10) according to claim 7, wherein, The locking mechanism (3) further comprises at least one aperture (32) provided in the interlocking element (2), said aperture (32) being arranged to receive a protrusion (31) of another interlocking element (2).

9. The support sleeve (10) according to claim 7 or 8, wherein, The protrusion (31) extends in an upward direction outwardly towards the top end (23) of the interlocking element (2).

10. The support sleeve (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The interlocking elements (2) are interlocked laterally to form a cylindrical sleeve space (22) having a substantially circular lateral cross-section.

11. An interlocking element (2) for a support sleeve (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, the interlocking element (2) comprising: a receiving portion (21) for at least partially receiving and accommodating a penetrometer assembly (11), and a locking mechanism (3) arranged to laterally interlock the interlocking element (2) to another interlocking element (2), wherein the receiving portion (21) of the interlocking element (2) is arranged to form part of a cylindrical sleeve space (22) having a substantially circular cross-section, the cylindrical sleeve space (22) being arranged to laterally surround the penetrometer assembly (11) when the penetrometer assembly (11) is advanced into the soil.

12. The interlocking element (2) according to claim 11, wherein, The interlocking element (2) defines a semi-cylindrical shape such that the receiving portion (21) is arranged to surround around half of the penetrometer assembly (11).

13. The interlocking element (2) according to claim 11 or 12, wherein, The locking mechanism (3) includes at least one protrusion (31) extending from the interlocking element (2), the protrusion (31) being arranged to engage with an orifice (32) of another interlocking element (2).

14. A system (100) for performing a cone penetration test, comprising: - a penetrometer assembly (11) including an elongate penetrometer rod (13) and a penetrometer (12) connected to the distal end of the elongate penetrometer rod (13), the penetrometer rod (13) being wound into a substantially circular shape; - a bending device (101) arranged to straighten or bend the penetrometer rod (13), the bending device (101) being arranged such that the penetrometer rod (13) is deformed from its substantially circular shape to a substantially straight shape, or from a substantially straight shape to a substantially circular shape, and such that the penetrometer assembly (11) is positioned above the soil (102) to be penetrated; - a first sleeve guide (111) and a second sleeve guide (112), the first sleeve guide and the second sleeve guide being located on opposite sides of the penetrometer assembly (11); - a first plurality of interlocking members according to any one of claims 11 to 13, provided in a first string (4) above the first sleeve guide (111); and - a second plurality of interlocking members according to any one of claims 11 to 13, provided in a second string (5) above the second sleeve guide (112), wherein when the penetrometer assembly (11) is advanced into the soil, the first plurality of interlocking members and the second plurality of interlocking members are arranged to interlock to surround the penetrometer assembly (11).

15. A method for performing a cone penetration test, the method comprising the steps of: - Provide a penetrometer assembly (11) comprising an elongate penetrometer rod and a penetrometer connected to the distal end of the elongate penetrometer rod, the penetrometer rod being wound into a substantially circular shape; - Provide a support sleeve (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 10; - Advance the penetrometer assembly (11) into the soil; And - While the penetrometer assembly is being advanced into the soil, surround the penetrometer assembly with the sleeve.

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