A confined space lateral backfilling device and method of use thereof

Abstract

This invention relates to the field of transverse backfilling, and discloses a transverse backfilling device for confined spaces and its usage method. The transverse backfilling device for confined spaces includes: a walking mechanism, which includes a base and a walking track mounted on the base; an adjustment mechanism disposed on the base; and a stepped compaction block connected to the adjustment mechanism. The adjustment mechanism is used to adjust the vertical height of the stepped compaction block and drive the stepped compaction block to reciprocate horizontally. During the horizontal reciprocating compaction process by the adjustment mechanism, the invention uses a stepped compaction block, which forms a stepped layered interface with natural joints through horizontal reciprocating compaction, interlocking with the subsequent backfill layer, inhibiting settlement cracks and collapse, and enhancing the stability of the backfill structure. An adjustable counterweight mechanism counteracts the transverse backfilling overturning moment, preventing the device from tipping over and reducing power loss. Vertical and horizontal linear actuators work in conjunction with the walking track to enable all-round mechanized layered backfilling, adapting to various confined spaces, reducing labor, improving construction efficiency, and shortening the construction period.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of lateral backfilling technology, and more specifically, to a confined space lateral backfilling device and its method of use. Background Technology

[0002] Confined space backfilling is a key construction process for underground structures, foundation pits, pipe galleries, and equipment foundations in building, municipal, and highway engineering projects. It provides homogeneous lateral support for the main structure, balances earth pressure, controls uneven settlement, and protects foundation piles; protects the waterproofing layer, prevents water seepage, resists soil frost heave and erosion, and extends structural lifespan; stabilizes foundation pit enclosures, reduces the risk of collapse and suffocation, and ensures construction safety; restores site elevation and topography, adapts to various site functions, and reduces dust and soil erosion.

[0003] Traditional confined space backfilling technology is mainly used for narrow, low-lying work areas such as foundation pits, the sides of underground structures, gaps in pipe corridors, and the perimeter of piers, where large machinery cannot access. It typically employs a construction method of layered filling and compaction using manual labor and small machinery. Common fill materials such as plain soil, lime-soil, and graded sand and gravel are generally used. The moisture content is controlled according to design requirements. The fill material is spread manually or fed by simple machinery, and layers of a certain thickness are laid. Then, small equipment such as vibratory rammers, internal combustion impact rammers, and hand-held vibratory rammers are used to compact each layer. In some sandy soil areas, water-based compaction is used to assist in densification. For areas requiring high compaction or with very limited space, plain concrete or rubble concrete is used for direct pouring and filling. When backfilling under cantilevered slabs, the limited space often prevents equipment from compacting the backfill and makes layered backfilling impossible. This type of confined space backfilling process relies on manual operation and the compaction of the fill material by its own weight. It does not require complex material proportions or pumping equipment. The construction principle is simple and the materials are readily available. However, it is significantly limited by space conditions and has problems such as poor compaction uniformity, blind spots in corners, inadequate compaction in deep areas, low construction efficiency, and high labor intensity. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention provides a confined space lateral backfilling device and its usage method, solving the technical problems of confined space lateral backfilling devices and their usage methods in related technologies.

[0005] This invention provides a confined space lateral backfilling device, comprising: The traveling mechanism includes a base and traveling tracks mounted on the base; The adjustment mechanism is located on the base; Stepped compaction blocks, connected to the adjustment mechanism; The adjustment mechanism is used to adjust the vertical height of the stepped compacted block and drive the stepped compacted block to reciprocate in the horizontal direction; During the horizontal reciprocating compaction process of the regulating mechanism, the stepped compaction block causes the backfill material to form a naturally interlocked stepped layered interface after compaction. This layered interface forms an interlocking structure with the subsequent backfill layer to prevent interlayer settlement cracks and backfill collapse.

[0006] As a further optimization of the present invention, the adjustment mechanism includes a vertical linear actuator and a horizontal linear actuator. The vertical linear actuator is vertically mounted on the base, and the output end of the vertical linear actuator is fixedly connected to the horizontal linear actuator. The output end of the horizontal linear actuator is fixedly connected to the stepped compaction block.

[0007] As a further optimization of the present invention, a mounting shell is fixedly installed on the base, and the mounting shell covers the outside of the vertical linear actuator. A vertically extending sliding opening is provided on one side of the mounting shell, and the horizontal linear actuator passes through the sliding opening and slides with the sliding opening through a slider.

[0008] As a further optimization of the present invention, the vertical linear actuator and the horizontal linear actuator are hydraulic cylinders or pneumatic cylinders.

[0009] As a further optimization of the present invention, the base is also provided with a counterweight mechanism, which includes a positioning rod vertically fixed on the base and at least one counterweight block sleeved on the positioning rod. The counterweight blocks can be added or removed and stacked on the positioning rod.

[0010] As a further optimization of the present invention, the base is also provided with a seat and an operating table, and the operating table is connected to the walking track and the adjustment mechanism for control.

[0011] As a further optimization of the present invention, the side of the stepped compacted block facing the backfill material has a stepped surface, and the stepped surface includes at least two steps.

[0012] As a further optimization of the present invention, the bottom of the vertical linear actuator is fixed to the upper surface of the base, and the horizontal linear actuator is located above the vertical linear actuator with its extension and retraction direction perpendicular to the axis of the vertical linear actuator.

[0013] As a further optimization of the present invention, the counterweight mechanism is located on the side of the base away from the adjustment mechanism, and is used to balance the overturning moment generated during lateral backfilling.

[0014] A method for lateral backfilling of confined spaces, employing the aforementioned lateral backfilling device for confined spaces, is characterized by comprising the following steps: Step 1: Pre-construction preparation: Clean the base layer of the backfill area, inspect the external protective structure, prepare backfill material that meets the requirements, and debug the backfilling device; Step 2: Move the backfilling device to the position of the cantilevered structure plate, so that the walking track is parallel to the cantilevered plate, and the extension and retraction direction of the horizontal linear actuator is perpendicular to the outer protective structure. Step 3: Adjust the stepped compacted block to the minimum height of the required backfill layer using the vertical linear actuator, and extend the horizontal linear actuator so that the outer side of the stepped compacted block faces the outer retaining structure; Step 4: Fill the space between the outer enclosure structure and the stepped compacted blocks with backfill material; Step 5: Control the horizontal linear actuator to reciprocate and extend, driving the stepped compaction block to move laterally. Utilize its stepped surface to form a naturally interlocked stepped layered interface after compaction of the backfill material. This layered interface forms an interlocking structure with the subsequent backfill layer, preventing interlayer settlement cracks and avoiding backfill collapse. Step 6: Observe the stability of the backfilling device during the backfilling process. If there is a tendency to tip over or move, add counterweights to the counterweight mechanism. Step 7: After completing the backfilling of the current area, move the tracked vehicle to the next work area and repeat steps 3 to 6. Step 8: After the current layer of backfilling and compaction is completed, use a vertical linear actuator to lift the stepped compacted block to the height of the next layer. Repeat steps 2 to 6 until the entire confined space is backfilled.

[0015] The beneficial effects of this invention are as follows: 1. The confined space transverse backfilling device of the present invention, by setting stepped compaction blocks and forming a naturally interlocked stepped layered interface of backfill material during horizontal reciprocating compaction, forms an interlocking structure with the subsequent backfill layer, preventing interlayer settlement cracks and backfill material collapse, achieving the interlocking effect in one go, solving the problem of weak joints and settlement caused by the inability to interlock in traditional layered backfilling, and improving the overall stability and durability of the backfill structure.

[0016] 2. The confined space transverse backfilling device of the present invention, by setting an adjustable counterweight mechanism and placing it on the side of the base away from the adjustment mechanism, can flexibly increase or decrease the counterweight according to the backfilling situation on site, balance the overturning moment generated by the reaction force of the backfill material during transverse backfilling, prevent the device from tipping over or sliding, and at the same time avoid excessive counterweight causing power system loss, thus achieving a balance between operational stability and energy saving and environmental protection.

[0017] 3. The confined space lateral backfilling device of the present invention realizes the all-round movement of stepped compacted blocks in the vertical and horizontal directions through the coordinated control of vertical and horizontal linear actuators. It can adapt to confined spaces of different heights and widths. Combined with the mobility of the walking track, it realizes mechanized and continuous layered backfilling operations, reduces manual input and labor intensity, improves construction efficiency, and shortens the construction period. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of a confined space transverse backfilling device proposed in this invention.

[0019] Figure 2 This is a top view of a confined space lateral backfilling device proposed in this invention.

[0020] Figure 3 This is a side view of the mounting shell in a confined space lateral backfilling device proposed in this invention.

[0021] In the picture: 1. Base; 2. Tracked walking mechanism; 3. Adjustment mechanism; 31. Vertical linear actuator; 32. Horizontal linear actuator; 33. Mounting housing; 331. Slide port; 4. Stepped compacted blocks; 5. Cantilever; 51. External enclosure structure; 6. Seats; 7. Control panel; 8. Counterweight mechanism; 81. Positioning rod; 82. Counterweight block. Detailed Implementation

[0022] The subject matter described herein will now be discussed with reference to exemplary embodiments. It should be understood that these embodiments are discussed only to enable those skilled in the art to better understand and implement the subject matter described herein, and changes may be made to the function and arrangement of the elements discussed without departing from the scope of this specification. Various processes or components may be omitted, substituted, or added as needed in the examples. Furthermore, features described in some examples may be combined in other examples.

[0023] Example 1 like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, Embodiment 1 of the present invention provides a confined space lateral backfilling device. The device includes a base 1 as a walking mechanism and a walking track 2 installed on the base 1. The walking track 2 can adapt to walking under different environmental conditions and can reach any designated position under the control of the operator to realize fixed-point operation. The base 1 is used to connect the walking tracks 2 on the left and right sides and provide a mounting base for other components.

[0024] An adjustment mechanism 3 is provided on the base 1. The adjustment mechanism 3 is connected to a stepped compaction block 4. The adjustment mechanism 3 is used to change the vertical height of the stepped compaction block 4 and drive it to move back and forth in the horizontal direction, thereby filling and compacting the backfill material in the confined space (e.g., the area below the cantilever 5).

[0025] Preferably, the adjusting mechanism 3 includes a vertical linear actuator 31 and a horizontal linear actuator 32. The vertical linear actuator 31 is vertically mounted on the base 1, and its output end is fixedly connected to the horizontal linear actuator 32. The output end of the horizontal linear actuator 32 is fixedly connected to the stepped compaction block 4. The vertical linear actuator 31 is used to control the working height of the stepped compaction block 4, and the horizontal linear actuator 32 is used to drive the stepped compaction block 4 to extend and retract in the horizontal direction, so as to realize the lateral compression and compaction of the backfill material.

[0026] More preferably, a mounting shell 33 is fixedly installed on the base 1. The mounting shell 33 covers the outside of the vertical linear actuator 31. A vertically extending sliding opening 331 is provided on one side of the mounting shell 33. The horizontal linear actuator 32 passes through the sliding opening 331 and slides with the sliding opening 331 through a slider, thereby providing guidance when the vertical linear actuator 31 drives the horizontal linear actuator 32 to move up and down, ensuring smooth movement.

[0027] The vertical linear actuator 31 and the horizontal linear actuator 32 can be hydraulic cylinders or pneumatic cylinders, i.e., hydraulic or pneumatic, to provide thrust and reciprocating motion.

[0028] In this embodiment, the stepped compaction block 4 has a stepped surface on the side facing the backfill material. The stepped surface includes at least two steps. During the horizontal reciprocating compaction process, the stepped compaction block 4 causes the backfill material to form a naturally interlocked stepped layered interface after compaction. This layered interface forms an interlocking structure with the subsequent backfill layer, thereby preventing interlayer settlement cracks and avoiding the collapse of the backfill material. This structure allows the layered interlocking effect to be achieved in one compaction without the need for additional processes.

[0029] In addition, the base 1 is also equipped with a seat 6 and an operating platform 7. The seat 6 is for the operator to sit on, and the operating platform 7 is connected to the walking track 2 and the adjustment mechanism 3 by means of control (e.g., electrical control or hydraulic control). The operator can control the walking, steering and extension and retraction of the vertical linear actuator 31 and the horizontal linear actuator 32 through the operating platform 7.

[0030] Example 2 This embodiment is a further optimization based on Embodiment 1, such as... Figures 1 to 3As shown, a counterweight mechanism 8 is also provided on the base 1. The counterweight mechanism 8 includes a positioning rod 81 vertically fixed on the base 1 and at least one counterweight block 82 sleeved on the positioning rod 81. The counterweight blocks 82 can be added or removed on the positioning rod 81 to achieve adjustable counterweight. The counterweight mechanism 8 is located on the side of the base 1 away from the adjustment mechanism 3. It is used to balance the overturning moment generated by the reaction force of the backfill material transmitted to the device through the stepped compaction block 4 and the adjustment mechanism 3 during transverse backfilling, preventing the device from tipping over or moving. The operator can add or remove the number of counterweight blocks 82 according to the backfilling situation on site: if the device is found to be moving outward or tipping over, the counterweight is added; if the counterweight is too heavy and causes excessive power system loss, the counterweight can be reduced, thereby achieving green energy saving.

[0031] Example 3 This embodiment, in conjunction with the above-described device, provides a method for lateral backfilling in confined spaces, which includes the following steps: First, prepare for construction: clean the base layer, inspect the outer protective structure 51, prepare backfill material that meets the requirements, and conduct a comprehensive inspection and commissioning of the equipment.

[0032] Then the backfilling device is moved to the position of the cantilever structure plate, so that the walking track 2 is parallel to the cantilever plate of the cantilever 5, and the extension direction of the horizontal linear actuator 32 is perpendicular to the outer protective structure 51. Next, the stepped compacted block 4 is adjusted to the minimum height of the required backfill layer by the vertical linear actuator 31, and the horizontal linear actuator 32 is extended so that the outer side of the stepped compacted block 4 faces the outer retaining structure 51. After backfill material is filled between the outer enclosure structure 51 and the stepped compaction block 4, the horizontal linear actuator 32 is controlled to reciprocate and extend, and the stepped surface of the stepped compaction block 4 is used to compact the backfill material laterally, so that the compacted backfill surface forms a naturally interlocked stepped layered interface.

[0033] If the device is observed to have a tendency to tip over or move during the compaction process, add counterweight 82. After the current area is backfilled, the walking track 2 moves to the next work area and repeats the above steps. When the current layer is completely backfilled and compacted, the stepped compaction block 4 is lifted to the height of the next layer by vertical straight line execution 31 and the backfilling continues until the entire confined space is backfilled. After the construction is completed, the device is cleaned and moved to the storage location.

[0034] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but the embodiments are not limited to the specific implementation methods described above. The specific implementation methods described above are merely illustrative and not restrictive. Those skilled in the art can make many other forms under the guidance of the embodiments described above, all of which are within the protection scope of the embodiments described above.

Claims

1. A confined space lateral backfilling device, characterized in that, include: The walking mechanism includes a base (1) and a walking track (2) mounted on the base (1). Adjustment mechanism (3) is mounted on base (1); A stepped compaction block (4) is connected to an adjustment mechanism (3); The adjustment mechanism (3) is used to adjust the vertical height of the stepped compaction block (4) and drive the stepped compaction block (4) to move back and forth in the horizontal direction; During the horizontal reciprocating compaction process of the regulating mechanism (3), the stepped compaction block (4) causes the backfill material to form a naturally interlocked stepped layered interface after compaction. This layered interface forms an interlocking structure with the subsequent backfill layer to prevent interlayer settlement cracks and backfill collapse.

2. The confined space transverse backfilling device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The adjustment mechanism (3) includes a vertical linear actuator (31) and a horizontal linear actuator (32). The vertical linear actuator (31) is vertically mounted on the base (1). The output end of the vertical linear actuator (31) is fixedly connected to the horizontal linear actuator (32). The output end of the horizontal linear actuator (32) is fixedly connected to the stepped compaction block (4).

3. A confined space lateral backfilling device according to claim 2, characterized in that: A mounting shell (33) is fixedly installed on the base (1). The mounting shell (33) covers the outside of the vertical linear actuator (31). A vertically extending slide (331) is opened on one side of the mounting shell (33). The horizontal linear actuator (32) passes through the slide (331) and slides with the slide (331) through a slider.

4. A confined space lateral backfilling device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The vertical linear actuator (31) and the horizontal linear actuator (32) are hydraulic cylinders or pneumatic cylinders.

5. A confined space lateral backfilling device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The base (1) is also provided with a counterweight mechanism (8), which includes a positioning rod (81) vertically fixed on the base (1) and at least one counterweight block (82) sleeved on the positioning rod (81). The counterweight block (82) can be added or removed and stacked on the positioning rod (81).

6. A confined space lateral backfilling device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The base (1) is also equipped with a seat (6) and an operating table (7), which is connected to the walking track (2) and the adjustment mechanism (3) for control.

7. A confined space lateral backfilling device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The stepped compacted block (4) has a stepped surface on the side facing the backfill material, and the stepped surface contains at least two steps.

8. A confined space lateral backfilling device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The bottom of the vertical linear actuator (31) is fixed to the upper surface of the base (1), and the horizontal linear actuator (32) is located above the vertical linear actuator (31) and its extension direction is perpendicular to the axis of the vertical linear actuator (31).

9. A confined space lateral backfilling device according to claim 5, characterized in that: The counterweight mechanism (8) is located on the base (1) on the side away from the adjustment mechanism (3) to balance the overturning moment generated during lateral backfilling.

10. A method for lateral backfilling in confined spaces, employing a lateral backfilling device for confined spaces as described in any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that: Includes the following steps: Step 1: Pre-construction preparation: Clean the base layer of the backfill area, inspect the external protective structure, prepare backfill material that meets the requirements, and debug the backfilling device; Step 2: Move the backfilling device to the position of the cantilever structure plate, so that the walking track (2) is parallel to the suspension plate of the cantilever (5), and make the extension direction of the horizontal linear actuator (32) perpendicular to the outer protective structure (51). Step 3: Adjust the stepped compacted block (4) to the minimum height of the required backfill layer using the vertical linear actuator (31), and extend the horizontal linear actuator (32) so that the outer side of the stepped compacted block (4) faces the outer retaining structure (51). Step 4: Fill backfill material between the outer enclosure structure (51) and the stepped compacted block (4); Step 5: Control the horizontal linear actuator (32) to reciprocate and extend, driving the stepped compaction block (4) to move laterally. Utilize its stepped surface to make the backfill material form a naturally interlocked stepped layered interface after compaction. This layered interface forms an interlocking structure with the subsequent backfill layer, preventing interlayer settlement cracks and avoiding backfill collapse. Step 6: Observe the stability of the backfilling device during the backfilling process. If there is a tendency to tip over or move, add counterweights (82) to the counterweight mechanism (8). Step 7: After completing the backfilling of the current area, move the walking track (2) to the next work area and repeat steps 3 to 6. Step 8: After the current layer is backfilled and compacted, the stepped compacted block (4) is lifted to the height of the next layer by the vertical linear actuator (31). Steps 2 to 6 are repeated until the entire confined space is backfilled.

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