Device for holding landfill material and decorative panel

Abstract

A device for holding landfill material and a trim panel, the device having at least a vertical structure, a horizontal structure, and a strut for engaging the vertical structure and the horizontal structure, the strut comprising at least a first hook. The horizontal structure has at least: a front portion extending longitudinally rearward from a lower portion of the vertical structure; an anchoring structure on a rear side of the front portion for engaging the first hook of the strut, the laterally extending fixing rod, or a combination thereof, for fixing the rearward extending reinforcement plate to the anchoring structure; and a rear portion on a rear side of the anchoring structure.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 620,065, filed on January 11, 2024. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to a retaining wall system for stabilizing an earth structure, and in particular, to a retaining wall system having a wire basket and a decorative panel. Background Art

[0004] Retaining wall systems have been widely used to stabilize civil structures. These systems generally include forming, installing or otherwise fixing a rigid wall structure of a suitable material (such as concrete, stone, etc.), and then filling the wall structure with soil or soil on one side. Thus, the fixed wall structure retains and stabilizes the soil. In some applications, a reinforcing structure (such as steel bars or geosynthetics) may be coupled to the wall structure for improving its stability.

[0005] Geosynthetics such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) resins are already widely used, for example in Tensar Uniaxial (UX) geogrids (Tensar is a registered trademark of Tensar Incorporated, Alpharetta, Georgia, USA) are used to stabilize civil structures, which have excellent advantages such as high bending stiffness, high tensile modulus, high resistance to biological and / or chemical degradation commonly encountered in the material, etc.

[0006] However, there remains a need for an effective method of using flexible polymer geogrids (also known as "soft sheets") to mechanically interlock reinforced earthworks with panel decks or other solid structures and two-stage concrete panel systems having concrete panels built on a reinforced welded wire mesh subsystem.

[0007] Therefore, there is a continuing need for novel retaining wall systems for stabilizing civil structures. Summary of the invention

[0008] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a device for retaining landfill material is provided, the device comprising at least: a vertical structure; a horizontal structure; and a support rod for joining the vertical structure and the horizontal structure, the support rod comprising at least a first hook; wherein the horizontal structure comprises at least: a front portion extending longitudinally rearward from a lower portion of the vertical structure; an anchoring structure located on the rear side of the front portion, for joining the first hook of the support rod, a laterally extending fixing rod or a combination thereof, for fixing the rearwardly extending reinforcement plate to the anchoring structure; and a rear portion, located on the rear side of the anchoring structure.

[0009] In some embodiments, the anchoring structure includes at least a first laterally extending anchoring wire coupled to the anterior portion.

[0010] In some embodiments, the reinforcing plate includes at least a geogrid overlapping the horizontal structure and extending rearward, the geogrid including at least a plurality of lateral spacer strips extending longitudinally between a plurality of transverse bars, the thickness of each of the plurality of transverse bars being greater than the thickness of the plurality of strips; the plurality of transverse bars including a first transverse bar located on the front side of a first anchor wire; and the anchoring structure is configured to engage a first hook, a fixing rod, or a combination thereof to form a stopper for preventing the first transverse bar from moving rearward.

[0011] In some embodiments, the first hook is an upwardly curved hook on the rear side of the strut for engaging the first anchoring wire from the front bottom side thereof.

[0012] In some embodiments, the first hook is located on the front side of the strut and includes at least: an upwardly bent hook portion extending from the body of the strut or otherwise transitioning to engage the first anchor wire; and an end extending upward from the upwardly bent hook portion for contacting the first transverse bar of the geogrid and fixing the first transverse bar to the horizontal structure.

[0013] In some embodiments, the end of the first hook is a downwardly curved hook portion that transitions forward from the upwardly curved portion to receive the fixing rod.

[0014] In some embodiments, the geogrid is disposed above the horizontal structure and extends rearwardly.

[0015] In some embodiments, the geogrid is disposed below the horizontal structure and extends rearward; and a portion of the plurality of strips between the first transverse rod and the first anchor wire extends upward over the horizontal structure, wherein a fixing rod is clamped between the portion of the plurality of strips and the horizontal structure for fixing the geogrid to the horizontal structure.

[0016] In some embodiments, the anchoring structure further comprises: a second laterally extending anchoring wire located posterior to and adjacent to the first anchoring wire, the first anchoring wire and the second anchoring wire forming a laterally extending slot therebetween.

[0017] In some embodiments, the brace is configured to extend between the first transverse bar and the first anchor wire, wherein the first hook engages the first anchor wire and the second anchor wire for securing the geogrid to the horizontal structure.

[0018] In some embodiments, the first hook is located on the rear side of the strut and includes at least: an upwardly curved portion extending from the body of the strut for engaging the first anchor wire; and a downwardly curved portion transitioning rearwardly from the upwardly curved portion (i.e., located on the rear side of the upwardly curved portion and transitioning from it) for engaging the second anchor wire.

[0019] In some embodiments, the geogrid is arranged above or below the horizontal structure, wherein the first transverse bars extend through the slot and are located on vertically opposite sides of the horizontal structure.

[0020] In some embodiments, the brace is configured to extend from a rear side of the second anchor wire, wherein the first hook engages at least the first anchor wire for securing the geogrid to the horizontal structure.

[0021] In some embodiments, the first hook is located on the front side of the strut and includes at least: an upwardly curved portion extending from the body of the strut; and a downwardly curved portion transitioning forward from the upwardly curved portion (i.e., located on the front side of the upwardly curved portion and transitioning from it) for engaging the first anchor wire.

[0022] In some embodiments, the upwardly curved portion is configured to receive a fixation rod and engage the second anchor wire via the fixation rod.

[0023] In some embodiments, the geogrid is arranged below the horizontal structure, wherein a portion of the geogrid is sandwiched between the second anchor wire and the fixing rod.

[0024] In some embodiments, the geogrid is disposed above the horizontal structure, wherein the first transverse bar extends through the slot and is located below the horizontal structure.

[0025] In some embodiments, the first hook is located on the front side of the strut and includes at least: an upwardly bent portion extending from the body of the strut for engaging the first anchor wire and the second anchor wire; and an end extending upward from the upwardly bent hook portion for contacting the first transverse bar of the geogrid and fixing the first transverse bar to the horizontal structure.

[0026] In some embodiments, the end of the first hook is a downwardly curved hook portion that transitions forward from the upwardly curved portion to receive the fixing rod.

[0027] In some embodiments, the first transverse bar is arranged above the horizontal structure.

[0028] In some embodiments, a portion of the geogrid located on the rear side of the first transverse bar extends through the slot and is disposed below the horizontal structure.

[0029] In some embodiments, a geogrid is disposed above a horizontal structure.

[0030] In some embodiments, the strut is constructed to extend from the rear side of the first anchor wire; the first hook is located on the front side of the strut and includes at least: an upwardly bent hook portion extending from the body of the strut for engaging the first anchor wire, and a downwardly bent portion located on the front side of the upwardly bent portion and transitioning therefrom for receiving a fixing rod; and a reinforcing plate is arranged above the horizontal structure and wraps around the fixing rod.

[0031] In some embodiments, the strut is constructed to extend from the rear side of the second anchor wire; the first hook is located on the front side of the strut and includes at least: an upwardly bent hook portion extending from the body of the strut for receiving a fixing rod and engaging the second anchor wire via the fixing rod, and a downwardly bent portion located on the front side of the upwardly bent portion and transitioning from it for engaging the first anchor wire; and a reinforcement plate is arranged above the horizontal structure, wherein a portion of the reinforcement plate extends downward through the slot, wraps around the fixing rod below the horizontal structure, extends upward through the slot and extends rearward.

[0032] In some embodiments, the strut is constructed to extend from the rear side of the second anchor wire; the first hook is located on the front side of the strut and includes at least: an upwardly bent hook portion extending from the body of the strut for engaging the first anchor wire and the second anchor wire, and a downwardly bent portion located on the front side of the upwardly bent portion and transitioning therefrom for receiving a fixing rod; and a reinforcement plate is arranged above the horizontal structure, wherein a portion of the reinforcement plate wraps around the fixing rod.

[0033] In some embodiments, a reinforcement plate is arranged above the horizontal structure, wherein a portion of the reinforcement plate extends downward through the slot, wraps around the fixing rod, extends upward through the slot and extends rearward; and the fixing rod has a diameter greater than the width of the slot and / or extends laterally between and engages a pair of lateral spacing structure wires on laterally opposite sides of the slot to prevent the fixing rod from moving through the slot.

[0034] In some embodiments, the anchoring structure includes at least a plurality of laterally distributed, upwardly extending and downwardly bent metal wire portions, which form a fixing channel for receiving a fixing rod; the reinforcing plate includes at least a geogrid overlapping the horizontal structure and extending rearward, the geogrid including at least a plurality of lateral spacer strips extending longitudinally between a plurality of transverse bars, the thickness of each of the plurality of transverse bars being greater than the thickness of the plurality of strips; the plurality of transverse bars including a first transverse bar located on the front side of a first anchoring wire; and the geogrid is arranged above the horizontal structure, wherein the first transverse bar is on the front side of the fixing channel and a portion of the geogrid is below the fixing rod.

[0035] In some embodiments, one or both of the front and rear portions of the horizontal structure include a plurality of laterally spaced longitudinally extending wires.

[0036] In some embodiments, the horizontal structure includes a plurality of laterally spaced wires extending longitudinally from a front portion to a rear portion thereof.

[0037] In some embodiments, one or both of the front and rear portions of the horizontal structure include one or more longitudinally spaced laterally extending reinforcing wires.

[0038] In some embodiments, the vertical structure includes at least a plurality of laterally spaced vertically extending wires.

[0039] In some embodiments, the vertical structure includes at least a panel.

[0040] In some embodiments, the pole further comprises a second hook for engaging the vertical structure.

[0041] In some embodiments, the device further comprises: a rearwardly extending reinforcement plate secured to the anchoring structure.

[0042] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a decorative panel for coupling to the front side of a mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) retaining wall panel, the decorative panel comprising: an inclined front surface such that when a plurality of devices and a plurality of correspondingly coupled decorative panels are vertically stacked, the front surfaces of the plurality of decorative panels form a substantially flat surface.

[0043] In some embodiments, the decorative panel includes an extrusion on a top portion thereof and a recess on a bottom portion thereof such that when a plurality of MSE retaining wall panels are vertically stacked with a plurality of corresponding coupled decorative panels, the extrusion of a lower one of the plurality of decorative panels extends into the recess of a higher one of the plurality of decorative panels.

[0044] In some embodiments, the decorative panel is a solid panel.

[0045] In some embodiments, the decorative panel includes a hollow interior and a plurality of openings located on its front wall, top wall and / or bottom wall in fluid communication with the hollow interior; and the hollow interior includes a reservoir located in the rear portion of the bottom wall for storing water flowing therein.

[0046] In some embodiments, the trim panel includes a water port in fluid communication with the hollow interior.

[0047] In some embodiments, the decorative panel further includes a water tank including: an inlet; a first outlet fluidly connected to the water interface; and a second outlet located below the first outlet, the second outlet fluidly connected to the water interface via an outlet valve.

[0048] In some embodiments, the inlet is configured to periodically fill the water tank with water, and the outlet valve is configured to periodically discharge the water from the water tank into the hollow interior of the decorative panel.

[0049] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a trim panel for coupling to a front side of an MSE retaining wall panel is provided, the trim panel comprising: one or more containers, each container including a hollow interior with an open top for growing plants therein.

[0050] In some embodiments, each container further comprises a plurality of openings on the front wall, the rear wall and / or the bottom wall thereof in fluid communication with the hollow interior.

[0051] In some embodiments, the hollow interior of each container includes a reservoir in the rear portion of the bottom wall for storing water flowing therein.

[0052] In some embodiments, the decorative panel includes a plurality of containers; and a first container at a lower height among the plurality of containers has a size greater than a size of a second container at a higher height among the plurality of containers. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0053] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) retaining wall system according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, the MSE retaining wall system including a basket and a geogrid extending longitudinally rearwardly therefrom;

[0054] Figure 2A yes Figure 1 Plan view of the geogrid shown;

[0055] Figure 2B yes Figure 2A A side view of the geogrid shown;

[0056] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a basket of the MSE retaining wall system shown, the basket including a bottom structure and one or more braces joining the vertical structure and the horizontal structure;

[0057] Figure 4A yes Figure 3 A perspective view of the base structure of the basket shown;

[0058] Figure 4B yes Figure 4A a front view of the base structure shown;

[0059] Figure 4C yes Figure 4A A plan view of the base structure shown;

[0060] Figure 4D yes Figure 4A a side view of the base structure shown;

[0061] Figure 4E yes Figure 4A The base structure shown is along Figure 4C A cross-sectional view of section line AA is shown;

[0062] Figure 5A yes Figure 3 A front view of the support poles of the basket shown;

[0063] Figure 5B yes Figure 5A a side view of the strut shown;

[0064] 6A to 7D Shows assembly according to some embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 3 The process of a basket is shown, wherein a geogrid is secured to the basket, wherein:

[0065] Fig. 6A yes Figure 4A A perspective view of the base structure shown with the geogrid extending thereto,

[0066] Figure 6B yes Fig. 6A Plan view of base structure and geogrid shown,

[0067] Figure 6C yes Fig. 6A The base structure and geogrid shown are along Figure 6B The cross-sectional view along the section line BB is shown,

[0068] Fig.6D yes Figure 6C An enlarged view of part C in FIG.

[0069] Fig. 7A is a perspective view of the assembled basket with the geogrid fixed to it,

[0070] Figure 7B yes Fig. 7A A plan view of the basket and geogrid shown,

[0071] Figure 7C yes Fig. 7A A cross-sectional view of the basket and geogrid shown, and

[0072] Fig.7D yes Figure 7C An enlarged view of part E in FIG.

[0073] Figure 8 yes Fig. 7A A cross-sectional view of a basket and geogrid filled with landfill material is shown;

[0074] Fig.9A is a plan view of a base structure of a basket according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0075] Fig. 9B yes Fig.9A A cross-sectional view of the base structure shown along section line FF;

[0076] Fig. 10A is a plan view of a base structure of a basket according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0077] Fig. 10B yes Fig. 10A A cross-sectional view of the base structure shown along section line GG;

[0078] Fig.11A is a cross-sectional view of a basket and a geogrid secured to the basket according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0079] Fig. 11B yes Fig.11A An enlarged view of part H in FIG.

[0080] Fig. 12A is a front view of a brace according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0081] Fig. 12B yes Fig. 12A a side view of the strut shown;

[0082] Fig.13 is a cross-sectional view of a basket and a geogrid secured to the basket according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0083] Fig.14A is a front view of a brace according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0084] Fig. 14B yes Fig.14A a side view of the strut shown;

[0085] Fig.15 is a cross-sectional view of a base structure of a basket according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0086] Fig.16A According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, Fig.14A and Fig. 14B The struts and Fig.15 a cross-sectional view of a basket of a base structure and a geogrid secured to the basket;

[0087] Fig. 16B yes Fig.16A An enlarged view of part J in FIG.

[0088] Fig.17 is an enlarged view of a portion of a basket and a geogrid secured thereto according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0089] Fig.18A is a cross-sectional view of a basket and a geogrid secured to the basket according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0090] Fig.18B yes Fig.18A An enlarged view of part L in FIG.

[0091] Fig.19A is a front view of a brace according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0092] Fig.19B yes Fig.19A a side view of the strut shown;

[0093] Fig. 20A is a cross-sectional view of a basket and a geogrid secured to the basket according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0094] Fig. 20B yes Fig. 20A An enlarged view of a portion M in FIG.

[0095] Fig.21A is a front view of a brace according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0096] Fig.21B yes Fig.21A a side view of the strut shown;

[0097] Fig.22A is a cross-sectional view of a basket and a geogrid secured to the basket according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0098] Fig. 22B yes Fig.22A An enlarged view of part N in FIG.

[0099] Fig.23 is a cross-sectional view of a base structure of a basket according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0100] Fig.24A is a cross-sectional view of a basket and a geogrid secured to the basket according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0101] Fig. 24B yes Fig.24A An enlarged view of part P in FIG.

[0102] Fig.25A is a plan view of a base structure of a basket according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0103] Fig.25B yes Fig.25A A cross-sectional view of the base structure shown along section line MM;

[0104] Fig.26A yes Fig.25A A plan view of a base structure and a geogrid to be secured to the base structure is shown;

[0105] Fig.26B yes Fig.26A A cross-sectional view of the base structure and geogrid along section line QQ is shown;

[0106] Fig.26C yes Fig.26B An enlarged view of part R in FIG.

[0107] Fig. 27 is a plan view of a base structure according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0108] Fig.28 is a side view of a solid decorative panel according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0109] Fig.29 yes Fig.28 a cross-sectional view of the decorative panel shown attached to the basket;

[0110] Fig.30 is a cross-sectional view of a plurality of baskets arranged in a stack, wherein Fig.28 The decorative panels shown are attached to each basket;

[0111] Fig.31 is a cross-sectional view of a hollow decorative panel according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0112] Fig.32 According to some embodiments of the present disclosure Fig.31 A cross-sectional view of two trim panels coupled together is shown;

[0113] Fig.33 is a cross-sectional view of a plurality of baskets arranged in a stack, wherein Fig.31 The decorative panels shown are attached to each basket;

[0114] Fig.34 is a cross-sectional view of a hollow decorative panel for growing plants according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0115] Fig.35is a cross-sectional view of a hollow decorative panel for growing plants according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, wherein the decorative panel includes a watering channel for fluid connection to a water source;

[0116] Fig.36 According to some embodiments of the present disclosure Fig.35 A cross-sectional view of a hollow trim panel shown fluidly connected to a water tank;

[0117] Fig.37 is a cross-sectional view of a hollow decorative panel for growing plants according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0118] Fig.38 is a cross-sectional view of a plurality of baskets arranged in a stack, wherein Fig.37 The decorative panels shown are attached to each basket;

[0119] FIG. 39A to FIG. 39D An MSE retaining wall system according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown, the MSE retaining wall system comprising a basket and a flexible, uniform thickness, single-piece reinforcement plate extending longitudinally rearwardly therefrom, wherein:

[0120] Fig.39A This is a three-dimensional diagram of the MSE retaining wall system.

[0121] Fig.39B yes Fig.39A Plan view of the MSE retaining wall system shown,

[0122] Fig.39C yes Fig.39A A cross-sectional view of the MSE retaining wall system along section line SS is shown, and

[0123] Fig.39D yes Fig.39C An enlarged view of part T in FIG.

[0124] FIG. 40A to FIG. 40C Show Fig.39A Basket of the MSE retaining wall system shown, wherein:

[0125] Fig.40A yes Fig.39A A perspective view of the basket of the MSE retaining wall system shown,

[0126] Fig.40B yes Fig.40A A plan view of the basket shown, and

[0127] Fig.40C yes Fig.40A A cross-sectional view of the basket is shown along section line UU;

[0128] Fig.41Ais a plan view of a base structure of a basket according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0129] Fig.41B yes Fig.41A A cross-sectional view of the base structure shown along section line VV;

[0130] FIG. 42A to FIG. 42C An MSE retaining wall system according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown, the MSE retaining wall system comprising Fig.41A The base structure shown is a basket with a geogrid extending longitudinally rearwardly therefrom, wherein:

[0131] Fig.42A This is the plan view of the MSE retaining wall system.

[0132] Fig.42B yes Fig.42A A cross-sectional view of the MSE retaining wall system along section line WW is shown, and

[0133] Fig.42C yes Fig.42B Magnified view of section X in FIG.

[0134] Fig.43A is a perspective view of an MSE retaining wall system according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0135] Fig.43B yes Fig.43A A cross-sectional view of the MSE retaining wall system is shown;

[0136] Fig.44 is an enlarged view of a portion of a basket having a geogrid secured thereto according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0137] Fig.45 is an enlarged view of a portion of a basket having a geogrid secured thereto according to yet other embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0138] Fig.46A showing a basket having a geogrid secured thereto according to yet further embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0139] Fig.46B yes Fig.46A an enlarged view of portion Y in FIG. ; and

[0140] Fig.47 is an enlarged view of a portion of a basket having a geogrid secured thereto according to still further embodiments of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0141] Now turn to Figure 1, which shows a mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) retaining wall system according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, and the system is generally identified using the reference numeral 100. As shown, the MSE retaining wall system 100 includes: a basket 120 for receiving landfill material (e.g., rock, gravel, earth, soil, etc.) therein, and one or more reinforcing geogrids 220 attached, coupled or otherwise fixed to a lower portion (e.g., the bottom of the basket) of the basket 120 and extending substantially horizontally rearward from the basket in a longitudinal direction. For ease of illustration, the geogrid is presented in a dark color.

[0142] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, geogrids are made of suitable geosynthetics for use in reinforcing the structure of soil, crushed stone, etc. Figure 2A and Figure 2B As shown, the geogrid 220 in these embodiments is made of a semi-flexible geosynthetic material (such as a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) resin) and includes a plurality of lateral spacer bars 222 (also referred to as strands or ribs) extending longitudinally between a plurality of thickened lateral or transverse bars 224 (i.e., laterally extending bars). More specifically, the longitudinal bars 222 are substantially flexible and the transverse bars 224 are generally rigid.

[0143] like Figure 3 As shown, the basket 120 includes a base structure 122 formed by welding a wire mesh. More specifically, the base structure 122 includes a vertical structure 124 at a front end 132 thereof, and a horizontal structure 126 extending rearwardly and substantially horizontally from a lower portion (such as a bottom) of the vertical structure 124 along a longitudinal direction to a rear end 134 of the basket 120. One or more laterally spaced struts 128 join the vertical structure 124 and the horizontal structure 126 to form a basket having one or more triangular structures. In some embodiments, the lateral spacing of the struts 128 can be any suitable spacing, such as uniform spacing (i.e., equal spacing between adjacent struts) or uneven spacing.

[0144] In these embodiments, the base structure 122 and the struts 128 are wire structures (such as wires, rods, etc.) made of suitable materials with suitable strength (such as galvanized steel, stainless steel, etc.). For ease of description, the terms "wires" and "rods" are used interchangeably hereinafter.

[0145] exist FIG. 4A to FIG. 4E Details of the base structure 122 (or more specifically, its vertical structure 124 and horizontal structure 126) are shown in FIG. It should be noted that the drawings in this disclosure are for illustrative purposes only and may not be to scale.

[0146] As shown, the vertical structure 124 includes a pair of vertical wires 142 that are laterally spaced apart from each other. One or more vertically spaced reinforcing wires 144 extend laterally between the pair of vertical wires 142 and are coupled to the front side 132 of the vertical wires 142 via a suitable coupling device (such as welding, wire tying, etc.) for supporting the vertical wires 142. To further strengthen the vertical structure 124, a plurality of vertical reinforcing wires 146 are laterally distributed between the two vertical wires 142 and coupled to the one or more reinforcing wires 144. As will be described in more detail later, the vertical reinforcing wires 146 in these embodiments also extend horizontally to the horizontal structure 126 for reinforcement purposes.

[0147] The vertical structure 124 also includes an upper anchoring structure 148 at a predetermined height for engaging one or more struts 128 (described in more detail later). In these embodiments, the upper anchoring structure 148 includes a wire (also identified by reference numeral 148) extending laterally between the pair of vertical wires 142 and coupled to the front side 132 of the pair of vertical wires 142 and the vertical reinforcing wire 146 via a suitable coupling device so as to also provide support for the vertical wires 142 (i.e., act as a reinforcing wire).

[0148] The horizontal structure 126 in these embodiments includes a pair of laterally spaced structural wires 152 extending longitudinally rearward from the bottom of the vertical structure 124 for maintaining the integrity of the horizontal structure 126, and a laterally extending rear wire 154 coupled on its bottom side to the rear end 134 of the structural wire 152. In these embodiments, the pair of structural wires 152 is formed by the pair of vertical wires 132 extending into the horizontal structure 126.

[0149] The horizontal structure 126 also includes a lower anchor structure 160 longitudinally intermediate the front end 132 and the rear end 144 of the horizontal structure 126. The lower anchor structure 160 includes a pair of longitudinally spaced anchor wires 162A and 162B extending laterally between the pair of structural wires 152 and coupled to the bottom sides thereof, thereby forming a laterally extending slot 164 therebetween for receiving an end of a geogrid therethrough (not shown; described in more detail later). For ease of description, the portion between the rear anchor wire 162B and the rear end 134 of the horizontal structure 126 is referred to as the rear portion 170 of the horizontal structure 126.

[0150] In these embodiments, the pair of wires 162A and 162B also serve as a pair of lateral reinforcing wires. Those skilled in the art will recognize that in some embodiments, the horizontal structure 126 may include one or more longitudinally spaced reinforcing wires extending laterally between the pair of structural wires 152 and coupled to the bottom side thereof via a suitable coupling device for supporting the structural wires 152.

[0151] To further reinforce the horizontal structure 126, a plurality of first reinforcing wires 172 are laterally distributed between the two structural wires 152, each of which extends rearward from the front end 132 of the horizontal structure 126 to the top side of the front anchor wire 162A. In these embodiments, the first reinforcing wires 172 are formed by extending the lower portion of the vertical reinforcing wires 146 rearward from the front end 132 of the horizontal structure 126 to the front anchor wire 162A.

[0152] The horizontal structure 126 also includes a plurality of second reinforcing wires 174 distributed laterally between the two structural wires 152, each of which extends rearwardly from the top side of the rear anchor wire 162B to the top side of the rear wire 154. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, each of the second reinforcing wires 174 may be in any suitable lateral position, such as a lateral position corresponding to a corresponding one of the first reinforcing wires 172.

[0153] Figure 5A and Figure 5B Strut 128 is shown. As shown, strut 128 is made of an elongated metal wire and includes an elongated body 182, an upper hook 184 located at a first end of elongated body 182 for engaging upper anchoring structure 148, and a lower hook 186 located at a second end of elongated body 182 opposite to the first end for engaging lower anchoring structure 160. In these embodiments, upper hook 184 is located at the front side of elongated body 182 and is bent downward (or more specifically, downward and rearward) for engaging upper anchoring structure 148 from the top thereof. Lower hook 186 is located on the rear side of elongated body 182 and includes an upwardly bent portion 188A that transitions rearwardly to a downwardly (or more specifically, downwardly and forwardly) bent portion 188B (i.e., downwardly bent portion 188B is located on the rear side of upwardly bent portion 188A and transitions therefrom).

[0154] As used herein, the term "upward bend" refers to a bent wire portion that forms an opening that faces upward. The term "downward bend" refers to a bent wire portion that forms an opening that faces downward. The term "forward bend" refers to a bent wire portion that forms an opening that faces forward. The term "backward bend" refers to a bent wire portion that forms an opening that faces backward. These "directional bend" terms may be combined and refer to bent wire portions that form an opening that faces the direction mentioned in the term. For example, the term "downward and forward bend" refers to a bent wire portion that forms an opening that faces downward and faces forward.

[0155] 6A to 7D An exemplary process of assembling the basket 120 and securing the geogrid 220 thereto is shown.

[0156] like FIG. 6A to FIG. 6D As shown, the user extends the end 302 of the geogrid 220 longitudinally forward from the rear side of the horizontal structure 126 (indicated by arrow 304) to place the end 302 of the geogrid 220 on top of the rear 170 of the horizontal structure 126; the end 302 includes a transverse rod 224A to be fixed to the horizontal structure 126 (for ease of description, referred to as a "fixed transverse rod" hereinafter).

[0157] The user then extends the end 302 of the fixed transverse bar 224A further forward through the slot 164 of the lower anchor structure 160 to position the fixed transverse bar 224A below the horizontal structure 126 (and below the front anchor wire 162A).

[0158] like 7A to 7D As shown, the user positions the strut 128 next to the bar 222 of the geogrid 220, and slides the lower hook 186 of the strut 128 from the top of the horizontal structure 126 through the space on the front side of the lower anchor structure 160 (i.e., from the front side of the front anchor wire 162A) and then slightly pulls the strut 128 upward so that the upward bent portion 188A of the lower hook 186 engages the front anchor wire 162A from the bottom of the front anchor wire, and the second downward bent portion 188B extends through the slot 164 of the lower anchor structure 160 and engages the rear anchor wire 162B from the top of the rear anchor wire.

[0159] In these embodiments, the vertical structure 124 and the horizontal structure 126 are slightly flexible. Therefore, the user can pull the brace 128 forward and upward and engage the upper hook 184 with the upper anchor structure 148 from the top of the upper anchor structure. Thus, the brace 128 engages the vertical structure 124 and the horizontal structure 126 to form a triangular structure. Other braces 128 can be installed in a similar manner.

[0160] Optionally but preferably, the user may pull the geogrid 220 back slightly to engage the fixed transverse bars 224A with the installed struts 128 .

[0161] The basket 120 is then assembled with the geogrid 220, which is attached or otherwise secured to the basket. Figure 8 As shown, landfill material 322 (such as soil, gravel, etc.) can be filled into the basket 120 and onto the geogrid 220. The triangular structure formed by the struts 128 and the vertical and horizontal structures 124, 126 provides sufficient strength and stability to contain the landfill material in the basket 120.

[0162] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the landfill material 322 may induce tension on the geogrid 220. Although the geogrid 220 is typically highly tensile, at least in the longitudinal direction, excessive tension may cause the fixed transverse bars 224A (which are fixed to the basket 120) to break from the geogrid 220 and cause a detachment between the basket 120 and the geogrid 220.

[0163] In these embodiments, when the end 302 of the geogrid 220 overlaps the rear portion 170 of the horizontal structure 126, the friction therebetween provides additional reinforcement to counteract the tension applied to the geogrid 220 and relieves the tension applied to the fixed transverse bars 224A, thereby significantly improving the integrity and strength of the joined basket 120 and geogrid 220.

[0164] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that various embodiments are readily available. For example, in the above embodiment, the second reinforcing wire 174 extends from the rear anchor wire 162B to the rear wire 154. Fig.9A and Fig. 9B In some of the embodiments shown, some or all of the second reinforcing wires 174 may extend from the rear anchor wire 162B beyond the rear wire 154 .

[0165] In such Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B In some of the illustrated embodiments, the horizontal structure 126 may not include the rear wire 154 .

[0166] Fig.11A and Fig. 11B FIG. 1 shows a geogrid 220 secured to a basket 120 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The geogrid 220 is secured to the basket 120 similarly to FIG. 7A to 7D As shown, except in these embodiments, the end 302 of the geogrid 220 is below the horizontal structure 126 and extends upward through the slot 164 so that the fixed transverse bars 224A are located on top of the horizontal structure 126.

[0167] Fig. 12A and Fig. 12B shows a brace 128 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, and Fig.13 Show use Fig. 12A and Fig. 12B The support rods 128 are shown to secure the geogrid 220 to the basket 120. The support rods 128 are similar to Figure 5A and Figure 5B The braces shown, except in Figure 5A and Figure 5B The upper hook 184 in the illustrated embodiment is located on the front side of the elongated body 182, while the upper hook 184 in these embodiments is located on the rear side of the elongated body 182. Fig.13As shown, the brace 128 in these embodiments engages the upper anchor structure 148 from the bottom of the upper anchor structure.

[0168] Fig.14A and Fig. 14B A strut 128 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. As shown, the strut 128 is made of an elongated metal wire and includes an elongated body 182, an upper hook 184 located at a first end of the elongated body 182 for engaging the upper anchoring structure 148, and a lower hook 186 located at a second end of the elongated body 182 opposite to the first end for engaging the lower anchoring structure 160. In these embodiments, the upper hook 184 is located at the front side of the elongated body 182 and is bent downward (or more specifically, downward and backward) for engaging the upper anchoring structure 148 from the top of the upper anchoring structure. The lower hook 186 is located on the front side of the elongated body 182 and includes an upward (or more specifically, upward and forward) bent portion 188A that transitions forward to a downward (or more specifically, downward and backward) bent portion 188B (i.e., the downward bent portion 188B is located on the front side of the upward bent portion 188A and transitions therefrom). As will be shown subsequently, the upwardly curved portion 188A is sized sufficiently to receive the posterior anchor wire 162B and the fixation rod therein.

[0169] Fig.15 1 and 12. The base structure 122 (or more specifically, the vertical structure 124 and horizontal structure 126) of the basket 120 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. The vertical structure 124 in these embodiments is generally similar to FIG. 4A to FIG. 4E The horizontal structure 126 is similar to FIG. 4A to FIG. 4E A horizontal structure is shown, except that the rear anchor wire 162B is at the same height as the second reinforcing wire 174.

[0170] like Fig.16A and Fig. 16BAs shown, the user positions the end 302 of the geogrid 220 below the rear portion 170 of the horizontal structure 126, wherein the fixed transverse rod 224A of the geogrid 220 is located on the front side of the front anchor wire 162A. The user then extends the brace 128 downward from the rear side of the lower anchor structure 160 (or more specifically, the rear anchor wire 162B) through the horizontal structure 126. The user extends the fixed rod 324 laterally through the opening of the upwardly bent portion 188A of the lower hook 186 of each brace 128 located below the end 302 of the geogrid 220, and pulls the brace 128 upward to engage the downwardly bent portion 188B with the front anchor wire 162A from the top of the front anchor wire, so that the fixed transverse rod 224A is on the front side thereof. After the upper hook 184 of the brace 128 engages the upper anchor structure 148 of the vertical structure 124, the upwardly bent portion 188A of the lower hook 186 of the brace 128 presses the securing rod 324 against the rear anchor wire 162B with the end 302 of the geogrid 220 sandwiched therebetween.

[0171] In some embodiments, Fig.14A and Fig. 14B The struts 128 and the fixing rods 324 shown may also be connected to other base structures 122 (such as FIG. 4A to FIG. 4E The base structure 122 shown, Fig.9A and Fig. 9B The base structure 122 shown or Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B The base structure 122 shown is used together.

[0172] like Fig.17 As shown, the user can position the end 302 of the geogrid 220 on top of the rear portion 170 of the horizontal structure 126 and extend the fixed transverse bars 224A of the geogrid 220 downward through the slots 164 to position the fixed transverse bars 224A below the horizontal structure 126. The user can then extend the brace 128 downward from the rear side of the lower anchor structure 160 (or more specifically, the rear anchor wire 162B) through the horizontal structure 126 and pull the brace 128 upward so that the downwardly bent portion 188B engages the front anchor wire 162A from the top of the front anchor wire.

[0173] In such Fig.18A and Fig.18B In some of the embodiments shown, Fig.14A and Fig. 14B The illustrated brace bars 128, as well as the securing bars 324, may also be used to secure a flexible reinforcement sheet 240 (such as a geotextile sheet made of a suitable geosynthetic material) to the basket 120. Unlike the geogrid 220 described above, the reinforcement sheet 240 does not include any thickening transverse bars.

[0174] As shown, the end 242 of the reinforcement plate 240 is positioned on top of the horizontal structure, extends downward through the slot 164 of the lower anchor structure 160, wraps around the fixing rod 324 below the horizontal structure, extends upward through the slot 164 of the lower anchor structure 160, and then extends rearward to be sandwiched between the reinforcement plate 240 and the horizontal structure. Rearward tension (e.g., caused by the landfill material) causes the fixing rod 324 to press against the rear anchor wire 162B with a portion of the reinforcement plate 240 (or more specifically, a portion of the end 242 of the reinforcement plate 240) therebetween, which causes increased friction to counteract the rearward tension and prevent the reinforcement plate 240 from coming out of the basket 120. The friction between the end 242 and the reinforcement plate 240 above it and the friction between the end 242 and the horizontal structure also help to counteract the rearward tension and prevent the reinforcement plate 240 from coming out of the basket 120.

[0175] Fig.19A and Fig.19B A support bar 128 is shown according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The support bar 128 in these embodiments is similar to Fig.14A and Fig. 14B The brace shown, except that the upwardly curved portion 188A of the lower hook 186 is large enough to engage Fig. 20A and Fig. 20B Both anchor wires 162A and 162B of the lower anchor structure 160 are shown.

[0176] Fig. 20A and Fig. 20B Show use Fig.19A and Fig.19B The illustrated example of a support rod 128 assembling the basket 120 and securing the geogrid 220. In this example, the base structure 122 is connected to the Fig.15 Same as shown.

[0177] like Fig. 20A and Fig. 20BAs shown, the user positions the end 302 of the geogrid 220 below the rear portion 170 of the horizontal structure 126, and extends the fixed transverse rods 224A of the geogrid 220 upward through the slots 164 to position the fixed transverse rods 224A above the horizontal structure 126. The user then extends the brace 128 downward from the rear side of the lower anchor structure 160 (or more specifically, the rear anchor wire 162B) through the horizontal structure 126, and pulls the brace 128 upward to engage the upwardly bent portion 188A with both the anchor wires 162A and 162B of the lower anchor structure 160 from the bottom of both. Then, the user extends the fixing rod 324 laterally through the downwardly bent portion 188B of the lower hook 186 of each strut 128, and pulls the geogrid 220 backward so that the tip of the downwardly bent portion 188B of the lower hook 186 presses the fixing transverse bars 224A of the geogrid 220 to provide improved fixing of the geogrid 220. The fixing rod 324 prevents the fixing transverse bars 224A of the geogrid 220 from sliding off the horizontal structure 126.

[0178] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the fixed transverse bar 224A of the geogrid 220 need not be the first transverse bar 224A of the geogrid 220. Fig. 20A As shown, the fixed transverse bar 224A is a second transverse bar of the geogrid 220 and the end portion 302 includes a first transverse bar 224B located on a front side of the fixed transverse bar 224A.

[0179] Fig.21A and Fig.21B A support bar 128 is shown according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The support bar 128 in these embodiments is similar to Fig.19A and Fig.19B The brace shown, except that the upwardly curved portion 188A of the lower hook 186 is large enough to engage Fig.22A and Fig. 22B Both anchor wires 162A and 162B of the lower anchor structure 160 are shown.

[0180] Fig.22A and Fig. 22B Show use Fig.21A and Fig.21B The illustrated example of a support rod 128 assembling the basket 120 and securing the geogrid 220. In this example, the base structure 122 is connected to the FIG. 4A to FIG. 4E Same as shown.

[0181] like Fig.22A and Fig. 22BAs shown, the user positions the end 302 of the geogrid 220 below the rear portion 170 of the horizontal structure 126, and extends the fixed transverse rods 224A of the geogrid 220 upward through the slots 164 to position the fixed transverse rods 224A above the horizontal structure 126. The user then extends the brace 128 downward from the rear side of the lower anchor structure 160 (or more specifically, the rear anchor wire 162B) through the horizontal structure 126, and pulls the brace 128 upward to engage the upwardly bent portion 188A with both the anchor wires 162A and 162B of the lower anchor structure 160 from the bottom of both. Then, the user extends the fixing rod 324 laterally through the downwardly bent portion 188B of the lower hook 186 of each strut 128, and pulls the geogrid 220 backward so that the tip of the downwardly bent portion 188B of the lower hook 186 presses the fixing transverse bars 224A of the geogrid 220 to provide improved fixing of the geogrid 220. The fixing rod 324 prevents the fixing transverse bars 224A of the geogrid 220 from sliding off the horizontal structure 126.

[0182] In some embodiments, the struts 128 are used to engage the base structure 122 and are not used to secure the geogrid 220. For example, Fig.23 The base structure 122 in these embodiments is shown. As shown, the lower anchoring structure 160 of the horizontal structure 126 includes a plurality of laterally distributed upwardly extending and downwardly bent wire portions 340 (e.g., each downwardly bent wire portion 340 is located between a pair of first reinforcing wires 172 and second reinforcing wires 174), forming a plurality of laterally distributed upwardly extending bumpers 340, each of which has a downwardly facing opening 342. Therefore, the downwardly facing opening 342 forms a fixing channel for receiving a fixing rod under the plurality of downwardly bent wire portions 340.

[0183] like Fig.24A and Fig. 24B As shown, the user positions the end 302 of the geogrid 220 on top of the rear portion 170 of the horizontal structure 126, wherein the fixing transverse bars 224A of the geogrid 220 are positioned on the front side of the bumpers 340. The user then extends the fixing rods 344 laterally through the fixing channels (i.e., the openings 342 of each bumper 340) to clamp the fixing rods 344 between the bumpers 340 and the end 302 of the geogrid 220 to secure the geogrid 220 to the basket 120.

[0184] Fig.25A and Fig.25B FIG. 1 shows a base structure 122 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The base structure 122 is similar to Fig.9A and Fig. 9BThe base structure is shown, except that in these embodiments, the lower anchor structure 160 includes a single anchor wire 162 extending laterally between the two structural wires 152.

[0185] like FIG. 26A to FIG. 26C As shown, the user can extend the end 302 of the geogrid 220 below the rear portion 170 of the horizontal structure 126, wherein the fixed transverse rods 224A of the geogrid 220 are positioned in front of the anchor wires 162. The user then pulls upwardly the portion 312 of the strips 222 of the geogrid 220 between the fixed transverse rods 224A and the anchor wires 162, so that the strip portions 312 are positioned above the horizontal structure 126, and the fixing rods 344 are extended laterally between the strip portions 312 and the horizontal structure 126, so as to clamp the fixing rods 344 therebetween to secure the geogrid 220 to the basket 120.

[0186] In such Fig. 27 In some embodiments shown, the horizontal structure 126 may include more than two structural wires 152, each extending longitudinally from the vertical structure 124 to the rear end 134, thereby forming a plurality of lower anchor structures 160 for securing a plurality of geogrids 220 (not shown).

[0187] In the above-described embodiment, the rear portion 170 of the horizontal structure 126 is made of the same material as the rest of the horizontal structure 126. In some embodiments, the rear portion 170 of the horizontal structure 126 may be made of a different material.

[0188] In the above embodiment, the rear portion 170 of the horizontal structure 126 is integrated to the front portion of the horizontal structure 126 via the structural wire 152. In some embodiments, the rear portion 170 of the horizontal structure 126 may be connected to the front portion of the horizontal structure 126 via a suitable mechanism (such as welding, bolting, threading, etc.).

[0189] In the above-described embodiments, the rear portion 170 of the horizontal structure 126 is integrated or connected to the front portion of the horizontal structure 126 via the structural wire 152. In some embodiments, the rear portion 170 of the horizontal structure 126 is disconnected or otherwise separated from the front portion of the horizontal structure 126, wherein the front portion of the horizontal structure 126 includes the front anchor wire 162A and the rear portion 170 of the horizontal structure 126 includes the rear anchor wire 162B. The geogrid 220 can be secured to the horizontal structure 126 in a similar manner as described above, with the end 302 of the geogrid 220 overlapping the rear portion 170 of the horizontal structure 126.

[0190] In an embodiment, wherein the lower hook 186 of each strut 128 is engaged with both the front anchor wire 162A and the rear anchor wire 162B, the front and rear portions of the horizontal structure 126 are thereby connected via the strut 128, thereby making the horizontal structure 126 a single piece; and the friction force between the end 302 of the geogrid 220 and the rear portion 170 of the horizontal structure 126 provides additional reinforcement to counteract the tension applied to the geogrid 220 and relieve the tension applied to the fixed transverse rods 224A, thereby significantly improving the integrity and strength of the joined basket 120 and geogrid 220.

[0191] In an embodiment in which the lower hook 186 of each strut 128 does not engage both the front anchor wire 162A and the rear anchor wire 162B, the friction between the end 302 of the geogrid 220 and the rear portion 170 of the horizontal structure 126 still provides some additional reinforcement to counteract the tension applied to the geogrid 220 and relieve the tension applied to the fixed transverse bars 224A, thereby improving the integrity and strength of the joined basket 120 and geogrid 220.

[0192] In some embodiments, the MSE retaining wall system 100 may further include: one or more decorative panels for attachment to the basket 120. The decorative panels may be made of any suitable material, such as recycled plastic, etc.

[0193] Fig.28 The decorative panel 400 in these embodiments is shown. The decorative panel 400 includes a solid body 402 having an inclined front surface 404 and a vertical rear surface 406, so that the thickness of the decorative panel 400 increases from top to bottom. The decorative panel 400 also includes a plurality of hooks 412 (see FIG. 4 ) located at various heights for engaging the reinforcing wires 144 and 148 of the vertical structure 124. Fig.29 ) to attach the decorative panel 400 to the front side of the basket 120. Alternatively or in addition, the decorative panel 400 can be attached to the basket 120 using other suitable mechanisms (such as threaded connections, bolted connections, etc.).

[0194] like Fig.30 As shown, in some embodiments, a plurality of baskets 120 may be arranged in a vertical stack. As described above, a plurality of decorative panels 400 may be attached to the plurality of baskets 120. From bottom to top, each of the plurality of baskets 120 is offset backwards by a suitable distance so that the inclined front surface 404 of the decorative panel 400 forms an inclined and substantially flat surface.

[0195] In such Fig.31In some embodiments shown, the body 402 of the decorative panel 400 has a hollow interior 422 for weight reduction, with one or more holes, such as a first hole 424A on the top of the body 402 and a second hole 424B at the bottom thereof, to allow air to enter and flow out to accommodate expansion and / or contraction of the body 402 caused by, for example, temperature fluctuations. Fig.32 As shown, the trim panel 400 also includes an extrusion 432 on the top thereof and a recess 434 at the bottom thereof, so that two trim panels 400 may be vertically coupled together by extending the extrusion 432 of the lower trim panel 400A into the recess 434 of the upper trim panel 400B.

[0196] Return to reference Fig.31 , the front portion of the bottom wall of the body 402 (e.g., the portion on the front side of the recess 434) is higher than the rear portion of the bottom wall of the body 402 (e.g., the portion on the rear side of the recess 434), and the bottom section 436 of the front wall 404 extends downwardly below the front portion of the bottom wall of the body 402. Fig.32 , the bottom section 436 of the front wall 404 has a suitable height so that when two decorative panels 400 are coupled to their respective baskets and vertically coupled together, the front wall 404 thereof maintains a gap 438 for accommodating the settlement of the landfill material filled into the basket (which often causes a certain height reduction of the basket). In some embodiments where a larger settlement of the landfill material is expected, the user may cut off a portion of the bottom section 436 of the front wall 404 (up to the front of the bottom wall of the body 402).

[0197] like Fig.33 As shown, in some embodiments, a plurality of baskets 120 may be arranged in a vertical stack. As described above, a plurality of decorative panels 400 may be attached to the plurality of baskets 120. From bottom to top, each of the plurality of baskets 120 is offset backwards by a suitable distance so that the inclined front surface 404 of the decorative panel 400 forms an inclined and substantially flat surface.

[0198] Fig.344 is a cross-sectional view of a decorative panel 400 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, the body 402 of the decorative panel 400 has a hollow interior 422 so that the body can be used as a plant pot for plant growth. The decorative panel 400 also includes: a door 440 located at the upper portion of the rear wall for entering the interior 422 of the body 402, and a plurality of watering holes and / or grooves 442 located on its top wall, inclined front wall 404 and bottom wall to allow water such as rainwater to flow into the interior 422 or flow out of the interior to drain excess water. The bottom 436 of the inclined front wall 404 also includes at least watering holes and / or grooves 444 to allow water to flow to the decorative panel 400 below it (and thus flow into the interior 422 via its watering holes and / or grooves 442). In these embodiments, the hollow interior 422 includes a reservoir 446 around the rear of the bottom wall of the body 402 for storing water flowing into it.

[0199] Fig.35 is a cross-sectional view of a decorative panel 400 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The decorative panel 400 can be used as a top decorative panel to be stacked on a Fig.34 On top of one or more decorative panels shown.

[0200] As shown, the top trim panel 400 does not include the extrusion 432. Instead, the top trim panel 400 includes a water interface 452 that is in fluid communication with the interior 422 via a watering channel 454. Fig.36 As shown, a water tank 462 may be connected to the water interface 452 to provide water to the water interface. The water tank 462 may include an inlet with an automatic filling inlet valve for periodically filling the water tank, and an outlet with an automatic outlet valve for periodically supplying water to the water interface 452.

[0201] Fig.36 The top trim panel 400 is shown connected to a water tank 462. The water tank 462 includes an inlet pipe 464 connected to a water source and controlled by an inlet valve 466. The water tank 462 includes a first outlet pipe 472A, preferably near the top of the water tank 462, and a second outlet pipe 472B at a height lower than the first outlet pipe 472A. Both outlet pipes 472A and 472B are fluidly connected to the water interface 452 of the top trim panel 400. The second outlet pipe 472B is controlled by an outlet valve 474.

[0202] In these embodiments, the inlet valve 466 is preferably an automatic valve for periodically (e.g., every 10 days) filling the water tank 462. The outlet valve 474 is preferably an automatic valve and can be a normally closed valve, unless in the case of excessive watering, in which case the outlet valve 474 can be opened periodically or as needed to water the plants growing in the decorative panel 400. Under normal circumstances, the outlet valve 474 is closed, and whenever the water level in the water tank 462 reaches the height of the first outlet pipe 472A, the first outlet pipe 472A is used to water the plants growing in the decorative panel 400. Since the water tank 462 is filled periodically (e.g., every 10 days), the watering through the first outlet pipe 472A is also periodic, for example, every 10 days.

[0203] In some embodiments, the top decorative panel 400 may include a laterally extending water channel in fluid communication with the water interface 452, so that a plurality of laterally arranged top decorative panels 400 may be fluidly connected by connecting the water channel of each top decorative panel 400 to the water interface 452 of its adjacent top decorative panel. Then, the water tank 462 may only need to be connected to one of the plurality of laterally arranged top decorative panels 400 to provide water to all of the top decorative panels.

[0204] Fig.37 4 is a cross-sectional view of a decorative panel 400 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The decorative panel 400 includes a rear wall 482 having a plurality of hooks 412 thereon for attaching to a basket, and one or more front walls 484 forming one or more pots 480 on the rear wall 482. Each pot 480 has a hollow interior 422 with an open top 486 suitable for growing plants therein. Each pot 480 also includes one or more overflow openings 488 on the rear wall 482, and one or more watering holes and / or slots 490 in the lower portion of the front wall 484 for allowing water to flow to the pot 480 below it.

[0205] Fig.38 A plurality of baskets 120 are shown in a vertically stacked arrangement, each basket having a Fig.37 The decorative panel 400 is shown. From bottom to top, each of the plurality of baskets 120 may be offset rearwardly by a suitable distance.

[0206] In the above embodiment, the MSE retaining wall system 100 uses a geogrid 220 fixed to the basket 120, wherein the geogrid 220 includes a plurality of thickened transverse bars 224 and a plurality of lateral spacer bars 222 extending longitudinally between the plurality of thickened transverse bars 224. In other embodiments, other suitable reinforcement panels may be used, such as geonets, geotextiles, etc., wherein such reinforcement panels may not include any thickened transverse bars 224 nor any longitudinal bars 222. Instead, such reinforcement panels may have a substantially uniform thickness and may be elongated single-piece panels.

[0207] FIG. 39A to FIG. 39D The illustrated MSE retaining wall system 100 has a basket 120 , and a flexible, uniform thickness, single piece reinforcement plate 220 secured to a horizontal structure 126 of the basket 120 .

[0208] like FIG. 40A to FIG. 40C As shown, the basket 120 is similar to Figure 3 The basket is shown except that the horizontal structure 126 of the basket 120 includes lateral wires 156 on the front side of the anchor structure 160 for engaging the plurality of struts 128 .

[0209] like Fig.39D 1, the end 302 of the reinforcement plate 220 is disposed on top of the rear portion 170 of the horizontal structure 126 of the basket 120, extends downward through the slot 164 of the lower anchor structure 160 of the horizontal structure 126, and wraps around the securing rod 324, then extends upward through the slot 164 of the lower anchor structure 160, and extends rearward to be sandwiched between the reinforcement plate 220 and the rear portion 170 of the horizontal structure 126. In these embodiments, the securing rod 324 has a sufficient length so that its two ends engage the bottom of the pair of lateral spacing structure wires 152 to secure the securing rod 324 in place and prevent it from moving upward through the slot 164. In some embodiments, the securing rod 324 may alternatively or additionally have a diameter greater than the width of the slot 164, which may also prevent the securing rod 324 from moving upward through the slot 164.

[0210] After the above installation, the reinforcing plate 220 overlaps the rear portion 170 of the horizontal structure 126 of the basket 120. After the landfill material is filled into the basket 120 and onto the reinforcing plate 220, the friction between the reinforcing plate 220 and the rear portion 170 of the horizontal structure 126 of the basket 120 further enhances the engagement of the reinforcing plate 220 with the basket 120.

[0211] Fig.41A and Fig.41B The base structure 122 of the basket 120 is shown according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The base structure 122 in these embodiments is similar to Figure 4AThe base structures are shown, except that the lower anchor structure 160 in these embodiments includes a single laterally extending anchor wire 162 and therefore does not have a slot 164.

[0212] like FIG. 42A to FIG. 42C As shown, the geogrid 220 is arranged on top of the rear portion 170 of the horizontal structure 126, wherein the transverse rods 224A of the end 302 of the geogrid 220 are located on the front side of the anchor wires 162. Then, a plurality of struts 128 extend from the rear side of the transverse rods 224A of the geogrid 220 and engage the vertical structure 124 and the horizontal structure 126. More specifically, each strut 128 includes an upper hook 184 that engages the upper anchor structure 148 of the vertical structure 124. As shown in Fig.42C As best shown in the figure, each strut 128 also includes an upwardly (or more specifically, upwardly and forwardly) bent lower hook 186 on its rear side that extends downwardly from the rear side of the transverse bar 224A of the geogrid 220 and engages the anchor wire 162 from at least the front and bottom sides of the anchor wire, thereby securing the transverse bar 224A (and therefore the geogrid 220) in place and preventing it from moving rearwardly away from the basket 120.

[0213] After the above installation, the geogrid 220 overlaps the rear portion 170 of the horizontal structure 126 of the basket 120. After the landfill material is filled into the basket 120 and onto the geogrid 220, the friction between the geogrid 220 and the rear portion 170 of the horizontal structure 126 of the basket 120 further enhances the engagement of the geogrid 220 with the basket 120.

[0214] In a similar FIG. 42A to FIG. 42C In some embodiments shown, the lower hook 186 of the strut 128 may be on the front side of the strut 128 and bend upward and rearward so that the lower hook may engage the anchor wire 162 from the rear and bottom sides of the anchor wire. However, in these embodiments, excessive rearward pulling force from the geogrid 220 may cause the strut 128 to disengage from the anchor wire 162.

[0215] Although in the above embodiments, the vertical structure 124 of the basket 120 is a wire structure, those skilled in the art will appreciate that in other embodiments, the vertical structure 124 of the basket 120 may be in any suitable form and made of any suitable material. Fig.43A and Fig.43B In some of the embodiments shown, the vertical structures 124 are in the form of vertical panels made of a suitable material such as concrete or steel.

[0216] As shown in the above embodiment, when the reinforcement plate 220 is fixed to the horizontal structure 126 of the basket 120, the reinforcement plate 220 substantially overlaps the rear portion 170 of the horizontal structure 126. The friction therebetween provides additional reinforcement to counteract the tension applied to the reinforcement plate 220, thereby significantly improving the integrity and strength of the joined basket 120 and reinforcement plate 220.

[0217] Fig.44 is an enlarged view of a portion of a basket 100 having a geogrid 220 secured thereto according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The basket 100 and the geogrid 220 are Fig. 20A and Fig. 20B Similar to that shown, except in these embodiments, the end 302 of the geogrid 220 is disposed above the horizontal structure 126, wherein the fixed transverse bars 224A of the geogrid 220 are located on the front side of the front anchor wires 162A.

[0218] Each strut 128 extends downward from the rear side of the lower anchor structure 160 (or more specifically, the rear anchor wire 162B) through the horizontal structure 126, wherein the upward bent portion 188A engages both the anchor wires 162A and 162B of the lower anchor structure 160 from the bottom of both of the anchor wires 162A and 162B of the lower anchor structure 160. The fixing rod 324 extends laterally through the downward bent portion 188B of the lower hook 186 of each strut 128, so that the tip of the downward bent portion 188B of the lower hook 186 presses the fixing transverse bar 224A of the geogrid 220 to provide improved fixing of the geogrid 220. The fixing rod 324 prevents the fixing transverse bar 224A of the geogrid 220 from sliding off the horizontal structure 126.

[0219] Fig.45 is an enlarged view of a portion of a basket 100 having a geogrid 220 secured thereto according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The basket 100 and geogrid 220 are similar to Fig.44 As shown, except in these embodiments, the ends 302 of the geogrid 220 wrap around the securing rods 324 .

[0220] Fig.46A and Fig.46B A basket 100 is shown with a geogrid 220 secured thereto according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The base structure 122 of the basket 100 is Fig.41A and Fig.41B Similar to that shown, wherein the horizontal structure 126 includes a single anchor wire 162. The struts 128 are similar to Fig.14A and Fig. 14BAs shown, the lower hook 186 is located on the front side of the slender body 182 and includes an upward (or more specifically, upward and forward) curved portion 188A that transitions forward to a downward (or more specifically, downward and rearward) curved portion 188B.

[0221] In these embodiments, the end 302 of the geogrid 220 is arranged above the horizontal structure 126, wherein the fixed transverse rod 224A of the geogrid 220 is located on the front side of the anchor wire 162. Each strut 128 extends downwardly through the horizontal structure 126 from the rear side of the lower anchor structure 160 (or more specifically, the anchor wire 162), wherein the upward curved portion 188A engages the anchor wire 162 from the bottom of the anchor wire. The fixing rod 324 extends laterally through the downward curved portion 188B of the lower hook 186 of each strut 128, so that the tip of the downward curved portion 188B of the lower hook 186 presses the fixed transverse rod 224A of the geogrid 220 to provide improved fixation of the geogrid 220. The fixing rod 324 prevents the fixed transverse rod 224A of the geogrid 220 from sliding off the horizontal structure 126.

[0222] Fig.47 is an enlarged view of a portion of a basket 100 having a geogrid 220 secured thereto according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The basket 100 and geogrid 220 are similar to Fig.46A and Fig.46B As shown, except in these embodiments, the ends 302 of the geogrid 220 wrap around the securing rods 324 .

[0223] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that these various embodiments and / or features thereof may be customized and / or combined as needed or desired. In addition, although embodiments have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art will appreciate that changes and modifications may be made without departing from its scope as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A device for retaining landfill material, the device comprising at least: vertical structure; Horizontal structure; as well as a brace for engaging the vertical structure and the horizontal structure, the brace comprising at least a first hook; Wherein, the horizontal structure at least includes: a front portion, the front portion extending longitudinally rearward from a lower portion of the vertical structure, an anchor structure located on a rear side of the front portion for engaging the first hook of the strut, a laterally extending securing rod, or a combination thereof, for securing a rearwardly extending reinforcement plate to the anchor structure; and A rear portion is located on the rear side of the anchoring structure.

2. The device for retaining landfill material according to claim 1, wherein: The anchoring structure includes at least a first laterally extending anchoring wire coupled to the front portion.

3. The device for retaining landfill material according to claim 2, wherein: The reinforcing plate comprises at least a geogrid overlapping and extending rearwardly from the horizontal structure, the geogrid comprising at least a plurality of lateral spacer strips extending longitudinally between a plurality of transverse bars, each of the plurality of transverse bars having a thickness greater than a thickness of the plurality of strips; wherein the plurality of transverse rods includes a first transverse rod located on a front side of the first anchoring wire; and Wherein, the anchoring structure is configured to engage the first hook, the fixing rod, or a combination thereof to form a stopper for preventing the first transverse rod from moving backward.

4. The device for retaining landfill material according to claim 3, wherein: The first hook is an upwardly curved hook on the rear side of the strut for engaging the first anchor wire from the front bottom side of the first anchor wire, or Wherein, the first hook is located at the front side of the support rod and at least comprises: an upwardly curved hook portion transitioning from the body of the strut for engaging the first anchor wire, and A downwardly curved hook portion is located at a front side of the upwardly curved hook portion and transitions therefrom for receiving the fixing rod for fixing the first transverse bar of the geogrid to the horizontal structure.

5. The device for retaining landfill material according to claim 3, wherein: The geogrid is arranged below the horizontal structure and extends backward; and wherein a portion of the plurality of strips between the first transverse rod and the first anchoring wire extends upwardly above the horizontal structure, wherein the fixing rod is clamped between the portion of the plurality of strips and the horizontal structure for fixing the geogrid to the horizontal structure.

6. The device for retaining landfill material according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein: The anchoring structure further includes a laterally extending second anchoring wire located posterior to and adjacent to the first anchoring wire, the first anchoring wire and the second anchoring wire forming a laterally extending slot therebetween.

7. The device for retaining landfill material according to claim 6, wherein: The reinforcing plate comprises at least a geogrid overlapping and extending rearwardly from the horizontal structure, the geogrid comprising at least a plurality of lateral spacer strips extending longitudinally between a plurality of transverse bars, each of the plurality of transverse bars having a thickness greater than a thickness of the plurality of strips; wherein the plurality of transverse rods includes a first transverse rod located on a front side of the first anchoring wire; and wherein the anchoring structure is configured to engage the first hook, the fixing rod, or a combination thereof to form a stopper for preventing the first transverse rod from moving backwards, wherein the brace is configured to extend between the first transverse rod and the first anchor wire, wherein the first hook engages the first anchor wire and the second anchor wire for securing the geogrid to the horizontal structure; or The strut is configured to extend from a rear side of the second anchor wire, wherein the first hook engages at least the first anchor wire for securing the geogrid to the horizontal structure.

8. The device for retaining landfill material according to claim 7, wherein: The first hook is located at the rear side of the support rod and comprises at least: an upwardly curved portion transitioning from the main body of the strut for extending between the first transverse rod and the first anchor wire and engaging the first anchor wire, and a downwardly curved portion located at a rear side of the upwardly curved portion and transitioning therefrom for engaging the second anchoring wire; or Wherein, the first hook is located at the front side of the support rod and at least comprises: an upwardly curved portion transitioning from the main body of the strut for extending from a rear side of the second anchor wire, and a downwardly curved portion located forward of and transitioning from the upwardly curved portion for engaging the first anchoring wire; or Wherein, the first hook is located at the front side of the support rod and at least comprises: an upwardly curved portion transitioning from the main body of the strut for extending from a rear side of the second anchor wire to join the first anchor wire and the second anchor wire, and A downwardly curved hook portion is located at a front side of the upwardly curved portion and transitions therefrom for receiving the fixing rod for fixing the first transverse bar of the geogrid to the horizontal structure.

9. The device for retaining landfill material according to claim 8, wherein: The upwardly curved portion transitions from the main body of the strut for extending from a rear side of the second anchor wire and receiving the fixation rod to engage the second anchor wire via the fixation rod.

10. The device for retaining landfill material according to claim 3, wherein: The strut is configured to extend from a rear side of the first anchor wire; Wherein, the first hook is located at the front side of the support rod and at least comprises: an upwardly curved hook portion transitioning from the body of the strut for engaging the first anchor wire, and a downwardly bent portion located at a front side of the upwardly bent hook portion and transitioning therefrom for receiving the fixing rod; and Wherein, the reinforcing plate is arranged above the horizontal structure and wraps the fixing rod.

11. The device for retaining landfill material according to claim 6, wherein: The anchoring structure includes at least a first laterally extending anchoring wire coupled to the front portion, wherein the strut is configured to extend from a rear side of the second anchoring wire; Wherein, the first hook is located at the front side of the support rod and at least comprises: an upwardly curved hook portion transitioning from a body of the strut; and a downwardly curved portion located forwardly of the upwardly curved hook portion and transitioning therefrom for engaging the first anchoring wire; and wherein the downwardly bent portion is configured to engage the first anchor wire, wherein the upwardly bent hook receives the fixing rod and the portion of the reinforcing plate that wraps the fixing rod to engage the second anchor wire via the fixing rod; or the upwardly bent hook is configured to engage the first anchor wire and the second anchor wire, wherein the downwardly bent portion receives the fixing rod.

12. The device for retaining landfill material according to claim 6, wherein: The anchoring structure includes at least a first laterally extending anchoring wire coupled to the front portion, wherein the reinforcement plate is disposed above the horizontal structure, wherein a portion of the reinforcement plate extends downwardly through the slot, wraps around the securing rod, extends upwardly through the slot, and extends rearwardly; and Wherein, the fixing rod has a diameter greater than the width of the slot and / or extends laterally between and engages a pair of lateral spacing structural wires on laterally opposite sides of the slot to prevent the fixing rod from moving through the slot.

13. The device for retaining landfill material according to claim 3, wherein: The anchoring structure comprises at least a plurality of laterally distributed wire portions extending upward and bending downward, wherein the wire portions form a fixing channel for receiving the fixing rod; wherein the reinforcement plate comprises at least a geogrid overlapping the horizontal structure and extending rearwardly, the geogrid comprising at least a plurality of lateral spacer strips extending longitudinally between a plurality of transverse bars, the thickness of each of the plurality of transverse bars being greater than the thickness of the plurality of strips; wherein the plurality of transverse rods includes a first transverse rod located on a front side of the first anchoring wire; and Therein, the geogrid is arranged above the horizontal structure, wherein the first transverse bars are on the front side of the fixing channel and parts of the geogrid are below the fixing bars.

14. The device for retaining landfill material according to any one of claims 1 to 5 and 7 to 13, further comprising: The rearwardly extending reinforcement plate is fixed to the anchor structure.

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