Pier bracket and sleeve connection for an anchor assembly

Abstract

Pier bracket apparatuses, systems, and methods for supporting a structure are disclosed herein, where the pier bracket may include a seat configured to receive at least one structural member of the structure, a tubular member coupled to the seat, and a sleeve coupled to the tubular member via an interference fit, the sleeve configured to receive the one or more structural piers.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE AND PRIORITY CLAIM UNDER 35 U.S.C. §119

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 779,707 entitled “Pier Bracket and Sleeve Connection for an Anchor Assembly” filed on March 28, 2025, which is assigned to the assignee hereof and the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein.TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a pier bracket assembly for supporting a structure, and in particular a pier bracket assembly having a member for receiving a sleeve and a structural pier device inserted therethrough.BACKGROUND

[0003] A pier bracket assembly is described and, more particularly, a pier bracket assembly for use in an anchor assembly including a structural pier device, such as a helical anchor or a push pier, to provide support to a structure, for example, by underpinning the structure.

[0004] Anchor assemblies, including structural pier devices, function under compression as footings or underpinning for structures, such as building foundations, walls, platforms, towers, bridges, and other structures. Anchor assemblies are used in both new construction as well as in the repair of settled and damaged footings and foundations of existing buildings and other structures. Conventional repair systems comprising anchor assemblies lift and support the structure at or near its original unsettled position.

[0005] Structural pier devices used in anchor assemblies typically include helical anchors or push piers. A helical anchor includes a shaft that carries one or more bearing plates, or flights, generally arranged in a helical configuration on the shaft. In use, powered rotation is communicated to the shaft to screw the helical anchor into the ground to bedrock or to load-bearing strata sufficiently stable to support the desired structure. Once inserted into the ground, the structure to be supported may be built or repaired with some or all of its weight carried by the helical anchor. In new construction, a plurality of helical anchors may be strategically positioned and hydraulically screwed into the ground to a desired depth. Once in place, the anchors are tied together and interconnected by settling them within reinforced concrete. For settled or damaged structures, helical anchors are often positioned along portions of, and utilized to repair, the structure by lifting and supporting the settling structure.

[0006] Push piers are linear shafts driven (e.g., hydraulically, or otherwise) into the ground alongside the structure to be supported until the push piers reach bedrock or a load bearing strata region at which the piers experience a desired amount of resistance sufficient to support the structure. Once a series of push piers are driven into the ground, the structure is raised by a desired amount and fastened to the push piers with a pier bracket assembly. The push piers and bracket assemblies are coupled to one another in order to support the building.

[0007] At the interface between the push piers and the bracket assembly may be a sleeve through which the piers are inserted. The sleeve may extend through a corresponding member (e.g., tubular member, or the like) of the bracket assembly to aid in directing the piers into the ground. If the coupling between the sleeve and the tubular member is inadequate, the piers may inadvertently be driven towards the bedrock at an undesired angle, become unsupported by the bracket, cause installation issues due to the sleeve slipping with respect to the bracket assembly, or the like.

[0008] For the foregoing reasons, there is a need for a new pier bracket assembly for use with structural pier devices in an anchor assembly.BRIEF SUMMARY

[0009] Disclosed herein are structural support apparatuses and / or methods of installation thereof for supporting and / or repairing structures. The anchor assembly comprises a bracket assembly coupled to one or more structural piers inserted into ground to support a structure. The bracket assembly may comprise a pier bracket including a seat configured to receive at least one structural member of the structure, and a tubular member coupled to the seat. The anchor assembly further includes a sleeve coupled to the tubular member of the pier bracket using one or more engagement features. The engagement features may include a flare, tapered flare, fins, polygonal feature, dimples, or the like, to form an interference fit between the sleeve and the tubular member to provide resistance to axial and / or rotational displacement, which reduces the risk of unintended movement that could otherwise result in misalignment or unintended disassembly. The sleeve is further configured to receive the one or more structural piers used to support and / or raise the structure.

[0010] One embodiment of the invention is an anchor assembly configured to support a structure. The anchor assembly comprises a pier bracket comprising a seat configured to receive at least one structural member of the structure, and a tubular member coupled to the seat. The anchor assembly further comprises a sleeve coupled to the tubular member via an interference fit, and one or more piers, wherein the sleeve receives the one or more piers.

[0011] In further accord with embodiments, the sleeve comprises an engagement feature.

[0012] In other embodiments, the sleeve defines an upper portion and a lower portion, and wherein the engagement feature is proximate the upper portion of the sleeve.

[0013] In yet other embodiments, the engagement feature extends radially outwardly from an outer surface of the sleeve.

[0014] In still other embodiments, the engagement feature comprises a flare.

[0015] In other embodiments, the engagement feature comprises a tapered flare.

[0016] In further accord with embodiments, the engagement feature comprises at least one fin.

[0017] In other embodiments, the engagement feature comprises a polygonal feature.

[0018] In still other embodiments, the engagement feature comprises at least one dimple.

[0019] In yet other embodiments, wherein the tubular member comprises an engagement feature.

[0020] In other embodiments, the tubular member defines an upper portion and a lower portion, and wherein the engagement feature is proximate the upper portion of the tubular member.

[0021] In further accord with embodiments, the engagement feature extends radially inward from an inner surface of the tubular member.

[0022] In other embodiment, the engagement feature comprises a flare, a tapered flare, one or more fins, a polygonal feature, or one or more dimples.

[0023] In still other embodiments, the sleeve resists rotational movement or axial movement relative the tubular member.

[0024] In yet other embodiments, the sleeve is press fit into the tubular member as a result of the sleeve being slidably received by the tubular member.

[0025] In other embodiments, the sleeve is coupled to the tubular member as a result of a deformation of the tubular member.

[0026] In further accord with embodiments, the sleeve is coupled to the tubular member as a result of a deformation of the sleeve.

[0027] Another embodiment of the invention is a sleeve for an anchor assembly. The sleeve comprises a tube having a proximal end and distal end and an engagement feature on the proximate end comprising a polygonal feature. The polygonal feature is formed by expanding at least a portion of the tube adjacent the proximal end of the tube, and the sleeve is configured to be coupled with a tubular member of a pier bracket and for receiving one or more piers to support a structure.

[0028] In further accord with embodiments, the engagement feature further comprises a flare at the proximal end of the tube adjacent the polygonal feature.

[0029] Another embodiment of the invention is a method for supporting a structure. The method comprises installing a pier bracket to at least one structural member of the structure. The pier bracket comprises a seat configured to receive the at least one structural member of the structure, and a tubular member coupled to the seat. The method further comprises installing a sleeve to the tubular member via an interference fit and installing one or more piers through the sleeve. The method also comprises securing a drive assembly to the pier bracket and the one or more piers and advancing the one or more piers downwardly to reach bedrock or a load bearing strata to support the structure.

[0030] The above summary is provided merely for purposes of summarizing some example embodiments to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it will be appreciated that the above-described embodiments are merely examples and should not be construed to narrow the scope or spirit of the disclosure in any way. It will be appreciated that the scope of the present disclosure encompasses many potential embodiments in addition to those here summarized, some of which will be further described below.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] Having thus described embodiments of the disclosure in general terms, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings. The components illustrated in the Figures may or may not be present in certain embodiments described herein. Some embodiments may include fewer (or more) components than those shown in the Figures.

[0032] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a pier bracket assembly, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0033] FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the pier bracket assembly as shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0034] FIG. 3 is a right side elevation view of an embodiment of the pier bracket assembly as shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0035] FIG. 4 is a front elevation view of the pier bracket assembly as shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0036] FIG. 5 is a rear elevation view of the pier bracket assembly as shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0037] FIG. 6 is a top plan view of the pier bracket assembly as shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0038] FIG. 7 is a bottom plan view of the pier bracket assembly as shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0039] FIG. 8 is a bottom plan view of the pier bracket assembly as shown in FIG. 8 with a support plate removed for clarity, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0040] FIG. 9 is a side elevation view of the pier bracket assembly including a pier cap and threaded rods for use with the pier bracket assembly, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0041] FIG. 10 shows a side view, an end elevation view and a top plan view of a pier cap for use with the pier bracket assembly as shown in FIG. 9, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0042] FIG. 11 is a side elevation view of an anchor assembly including the pier bracket assembly as shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0043] FIG. 12A is a side elevation view of a welded collar sleeve for use with the pier bracket assembly as shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0044] FIG. 12B is a side elevation view of a flared sleeve for use with the pier bracket assembly as shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0045] FIG. 12C is a side elevation view of a tapered sleeve for use with the pier bracket assembly as shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0046] FIG. 12D is a side elevation view of a swaged sleeve for use with the pier bracket assembly as shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0047] FIG. 12E is a top plan view of a pier bracket assembly having a tapered tubular member, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0048] FIG. 12F is a side elevation view of a fin sleeve having fins for use with the pier bracket assembly as shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0049] FIG. 12G is a top plan view of the fin sleeve shown in FIG. 12F, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0050] FIG. 12H is a top plan view of a pier bracket assembly having a fin tubular member with fins, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0051] FIG. 12I is a side elevation view of a polygonal sleeve having a polygonal feature for use with the pier bracket assembly as shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0052] FIG. 12J is a top plan view of the polygonal sleeve shown in FIG. 12I, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0053] FIG. 12K is a top plan view of a pier bracket assembly having a polygonal tubular member with a polygonal feature, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0054] FIG. 12L is a side elevation view of a dimpled sleeve having dimples for use with the pier bracket assembly as shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0055] FIG. 12M is a perspective view of a pier bracket assembly having a dimpled tubular member with dimples, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0056] FIG. 12N is a top plan view of the dimpled tubular member of the pier bracket assembly shown in FIG. 12M, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0057] FIG. 13 is an exploded side elevation view of the anchor assembly as shown in FIG. 11, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0058] FIG. 14 is an exploded rear elevation view of the pier bracket assembly as shown in FIGS. 11 and 13, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0059] FIG. 15 is a partially exploded side elevation view of the anchor assembly as shown in FIG. 11, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0060] FIG. 16 is an end view and a side elevation view joined structural pier devices, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0061] FIGS. 17A, 17B, 17C, 17D, 17E and 17F, are a schematic view of steps in a nipple crimping process for joining tubes of structural piers, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0062] FIG. 18 is a process flow for raising a foundation of a structure using a pier bracket assembly, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0063] Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all, embodiments of the disclosure are shown. Indeed, the disclosure may be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Where possible, any terms expressed in the singular form herein are meant to also include the plural form and vice versa, unless explicitly stated otherwise. Also, as used herein, the term “a” and / or “an” shall mean “one or more,” even though the phrase “one or more” is also used herein. Furthermore, when it is said herein that something is “based on” something else, it may be based on one or more other things as well. In other words, unless expressly indicated otherwise, as used herein “based on” means “based at least in part on” or “based at least partially on.” Like numbers refer to like elements throughout.

[0064] Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate corresponding or similar elements throughout the several views, embodiments of a pier bracket assembly are shown in FIGS. 1-8 and generally designated at 20. The pier bracket 20 may be configured for use with an anchor assembly 10, as illustrated in one embodiment in FIGS. 9, 11 and 13-15, including a structural pier device (otherwise described as a pier assembly having one or more piers) that is inserted into the ground under force in order to support the weight of a structure, such as a building foundation, a wall, footers, or the like. The structural pier device may comprise one or more helical anchors or push piers. A method of securing the pier bracket 20 to the structure allows one to interconnect the structural pier device and the structure in the field at the installation site for supporting the structure.

[0065] The pier bracket 20 may be a one piece monolithic body member 22, such as an L-shaped seat 24, as well as a ground-engaging support plate 26 (e.g., sand plate, or the like). In other embodiments, the body member 22 may be made from multiple pieces coupled together. The L-shaped seat 24 may include a base leg 28 and an orthogonal upper leg 29 joined to each other at a junction, wherein the base leg 28 extends horizontally and the orthogonal upper leg 29 extends vertically to define a corner structure. In other embodiments, the body member 22 may be a seat having a different shape. In some embodiments, the junction may be defined by a right angle. In other embodiments, the junction may be defined by an obtuse or acute angle.

[0066] In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the base leg 28 may extend horizontally from the junction a greater distance than the upper leg 29 vertically. However, in other embodiments, the base leg 28 may extend horizontally from the junction a lesser or equal distance than the upper leg 29 extends vertically.

[0067] In the embodiments shown, the shape of the base leg 28 and upper leg 29 is generally that of a rectangle. However, in other embodiments, base leg 28 and / or upper leg 29 may take the form of a square, circle, polygon, or any other suitable shape.

[0068] The base leg 28 of the L-shaped seat 24 may be configured to extend under and support the structure to be supported. In some embodiments, the L-shaped seat may be fastened to the structure. As such, spaced slots 31 may be provided in the upper leg 29 for receiving fasteners for securing the pier bracket 20 to the structure. In some embodiments, two slots 31 may be provided. In other embodiments, fewer than two or more than two slots 31 may be provided.

[0069] Additionally, or alternatively, the base leg 28 may include spaced slots 31 for receiving fasteners for securing the pier bracket 20 to the structure. In some embodiments, two slots 31 may be provided. In other embodiments, fewer than two, or more than two, slots 31 may be provided.

[0070] The support plate 26 (e.g., sand plate, or the like) provides a base for vertically standing the pier bracket 20 when the pier bracket 20 is not secured to the structure. In the embodiment shown, the shape of the sand plate 26 is square and may be of any suitable dimension. In alternative embodiments, the shape may be other than square, such as a rectangle, circle, polygon, or any other suitable shape.

[0071] One or more side plates 30 (e.g., a pair of truncated triangular side plates, or the like) may extend from and interconnect the base leg 28 of the seat 24 and the support plate 26. The side plates 30 may taper in width from their connection at an upper edge to the base leg 28 to a smaller width at their connection at a lower edge to the sand plate 26. One or both of the side plates 30 may define openings 32 (e.g., of any size or shape) sized to fit one or more fingers or a hand so that an installer has a handhold for carrying the pier bracket 20.

[0072] The side plates 30 may converge from the outer free edge of the base leg 28 to the inner edge of the base leg 28. The inner edges of the side plates 30 may project beyond the upper leg 29 of the L-shaped seat 24 and may be integral with a member 34 for receiving a sleeve 38. The member 34 that receives the sleeve 38 is illustrated as hollow longitudinal tubular member 34 extending substantially parallel with the upper leg 29. The tubular member 34 is illustrated as a circular cylindrical member; however, it should be understood that the tubular member may have other shapes, such as half-circular, oval, triangular, square, rectangular, polygonal, unform, non-uniform, or any other type of shape. Moreover, the tubular member 34 may be closed or may be at least partially open (e.g., having a slot, or the like, extending at least partially through the longitudinal length of the tubular member 34).

[0073] The upper end of the tubular member 34 may be secured to the upper leg 29 via a flange 36 connected between a point intermediate the length of the upper leg and the tubular member 34. The tubular member 34 may define an axial through-bore configured to receive an elongated sleeve 38 for passing shaft sections of a structural pier device, as will be described below. The sleeve 38 may be a hollow female tubular element having outer diametrical dimensions larger than that of the structural support devices. The sleeve may be made of any material, but in some embodiments is made of steel or another metal. In some embodiments, such as those illustrated in FIGS. 1-6, the tubular member 34 may have a circular transverse cross-section. However, in other embodiments, such as those that will be described in detail herein, the tubular member 34 may include features or alternate geometry that improves the receiving and securing of the elongated sleeve 38 within the tubular member 34 of the pier bracket 20.

[0074] In some embodiments, the tubular member 34 may support a pair of opposed ears 40 extending outwardly from the periphery of the tubular member 34 and parallel with the flange 36. The flange 36 and each of the ears 40 may define one or more bolt holes 42 so that the pier bracket 20 may be fastened to the underpinning drive assembly. The peripheral edges of both the flange 36 and the ears 40 may be rounded at their corners. This configuration greatly facilitates placement of the drive assembly proximate the pier bracket 20 in preparation for driving the structural devices. As best seen in FIG. 9, a threaded rod connector 44 may extend through each of the pairs of bolt holes 42 for attachment to the drive assembly (not shown). Nuts and washers (or other types of connectors, such as other fasteners, clips, clamps, pins, dowels, or the like) may be used to attach each rod 44 and a pier cap 66 (as illustrated in some embodiments in FIG. 10) to the pier bracket 20. It is to be understood that any number and size of rods (e.g., at least partially threaded rods, or the like) 44 may be used with corresponding pre-drilled bolt holes 42.

[0075] In one embodiment, the pier bracket 20 may be constructed of galvanized hardened alloy steel to prevent corrosive deterioration of the pier bracket 20 over time. However, it shall be understood that the pier bracket 20 and the subcomponents thereof (or any other components in the anchor assembly) may be fabricated from any suitable material, including, but not limited to carbon steel, stainless steel, cast iron, aluminum, titanium, magnesium, bronze, copper alloys, fiber-reinforced polymer composites, carbon fiber-reinforced polymer composites, ceramic matrix composites (CMC), or the like, which may or may not have a coating (e.g., a galvanized, galvannealed, aluminum, zinc, other element, combination thereof, or the like coating). In some embodiments, the pier bracket 20 and subcomponents thereof (or any other components in the anchor assembly) may be of the same material. In other embodiments, subcomponents of the pier bracket 20 may be a different material than other subcomponents of the pier bracket 20 (or any other components in the anchor assembly).

[0076] As will be described in further detail with respect to FIG. 18, the anchor assembly, including the pier bracket 20 thereof, provides an improved method of assembling the anchor assembly in the field to the structure and within the ground. The method generally comprises providing a structural pier device for insertion through the sleeve 38 in the pier bracket 20 to form the anchor assembly that supports the structure. The shaft of the structural pier device may be inserted through the sleeve 38 and forced into the ground such that the structural pier device is anchored into the ground. The improved coupling of the sleeve 38 to the pier bracket 20 restricts slippage of the sleeve 38 with respect to the tubular member 34 of the pier bracket 20. Referring to FIG. 11, an assembled anchor assembly, generally designated at 50, is shown supporting a wall 52 of a structure. The anchor assembly 50 may include a structural pier device in the form of a push pier 54.

[0077] The sleeve 38 may be received in the tubular member 34 of the pier bracket 20. To restrict the separation of the sleeve 38 from the tubular member 34 (e.g., prevent, reduce the chance of separation, rotation, or the like), and thereby reduce the chances of misalignment of the anchor assembly 50 and / or push pier 54, or separation over time between the sleeve 38 and the tubular member 34, the sleeve 38 may include at least one engagement feature to engage with the tubular member 34. Additionally, or alternatively, the tubular member 34 of the pier bracket 20 may include at least one engagement feature to engage with the sleeve 38. Various configurations and implementations of the at least one engagement feature will be described in greater detail herein with respect to subsequent figures.

[0078] The effectiveness of the at least one engagement feature depends on the process of coupling the sleeve 38 to the tubular member 34 of the pier bracket 20. To couple the sleeve 38 to the tubular member 34, the sleeve 38 may be assembled with the tubular member 34 using axial and / or radial pressing techniques. For axial pressing, hydraulic or mechanical presses, linear actuators, arbor presses, or the like, may apply an axial force to advance the sleeve 38 longitudinally into the tubular member 34. In some embodiments, the pressing may be performed manually, such as with or without tools. As the sleeve 38 progresses into the tubular member 34, the at least one engagement feature may engage with the inner surface of the tubular member 34 (or outer surface of the sleeve 38 in embodiments that include at least one engagement feature on the tubular member 34) to radially deform the at least one engagement feature, the sleeve 38, and / or the tubular member 34 (e.g., the outer and / or inner surfaces, or the like of any of the foregoing). In doing so, a frictional interface and interference fit is established between the tubular member 34 and the sleeve 38.

[0079] For radial pressing, crimping tools, swaging machines, radial presses, collet devices, or the like, may apply circumferential radial pressure around the tubular member 34 such that when radial compression occurs, the tubular member 34 deforms inwardly. This inward deformation may result in the at least one engagement feature being displaced inwardly and deforming of the at least one engagement feature, the sleeve 38, and / or the tubular member 34 (e.g., the outer and / or inner surfaces, or the like of any of the foregoing) to yield a frictional interface and interference fit therebetween. In some embodiments, the pressing may be performed manually, such as with or without tools.

[0080] Example embodiments of the engagement features will now be described henceforth with respect to FIGS. 12A-12N. As shown in FIG. 12A, the sleeve 38 may include an engagement feature such as a ring collar 39. The ring collar 39 may be welded to the periphery at a proximal end to form an annular shoulder and thereby hold the sleeve 38 in the tubular member 34. Indeed, the annular shoulder may extend circumferentially around the proximal end and have an outer diameter larger than the inner diameter of the bore of the tubular member 34. In some embodiments, one or more ring collars 39 may be sized and / or used to improve the coupling of the sleeve 38 with the tubular member 34 (e.g., a ring may be sized to deform the tubular member 34) and / or restrict an end of the sleeve 38 from passing through the tubular member 34.

[0081] In some embodiments, such as that which is shown in FIG. 12B, the proximal end of the sleeve 38 may include one or more flares 41 to couple the sleeve 38 to the tubular member 34. Additionally, or alternatively, the tubular member 34 of the pier bracket 20 may be flared for coupling the sleeve 38 thereto. In some embodiments, one or more flares 41 may be sized and / or used to improve the coupling of the sleeve 38 with the tubular member 34 (e.g., a flare may be sized to deform the tubular member 34) and / or restrict an end of the sleeve 38 from passing through the tubular member 34.

[0082] It shall be appreciated that the flare 41 illustrated in FIG. 12B may be the result of outward expansion of the diameter of the sleeve 38, which results in a curved or bell-shaped profile. Stated differently, the flare 41 may follow a rounded or parabolic contour transitioning from the otherwise cylindrical shape of the sleeve 38. In some embodiments, such as that which is illustrated in FIG. 12C, the proximal end of the sleeve 38 may include a tapered flare 68 characterized by a gradual, linear increase / reduction in diameter along the axial length of the sleeve 38, resulting in a substantially conical profile. In other embodiments, the flare 41 may include a tapered flared portion 68, as illustrated in some embodiments in FIG. 12C, an untampered flared portion (as illustrated in some embodiments in FIG. 12D, which has the same outer diameter for at least a portion of the tube), and / or a flared end 41 (as illustrated in FIG. 12B). Additionally, or alternatively, as shown in FIG. 12E, the inner surface of the tubular member 34 of the pier bracket 20 may include a substantially linear decrease in diameter to result in a similar tapered flare 68 for coupling to the sleeve 38. The forming of the flare 41, such as the tapered flare 68 may be the result of one or more of several manufacturing methods. For example, the flare 41, such as the tapered flare 68 may result from machining operations such as turning or grinding, in which material is selectively removed from the outer diameter of the sleeve 38 (and / or the inner diameter of the tubular member 34) to achieve the desired diameter change(s). Additionally, or alternatively, forming methods such as flaring, swaging, cold-working, and / or hot-working may deform the material of the sleeve 38 and / or tubular member 34 to create the flare 41, such as the tapered flare 68. While flaring is typically used to create a cone-shaped end, and swaging is typically used to create a cylindrical section, it should be understood that the features described herein are not limited to these specific manufacturing techniques. As such, it should be understood that any metal working process that expands and / or contracts (e.g., radial expansion or narrowing of an entire diameter, a specific location thereof, or the like) at least a portion of the sleeve 38 (or tubular member 34) may be used to form the engagement features of the present disclosure. Additionally, or alternatively, hydraulic expansion / compression techniques may be used in conjunction with internal or external dies to achieve the desired flare 41, such as the tapered flare 68. Additionally, or alternatively, the initial fabrication of the sleeve 38 and / or tubular member 34 may result in the desired flare 41, such as through suitably designed casting molds or forging. Additionally, or alternatively, the flare 41 may be separately fabricated and joined to the sleeve 38 (e.g., via welding, pressing, or the like).

[0083] Referring now to FIG. 12D, in some embodiments, the proximal end of the sleeve 38 may include a swaged portion 69, defined by a substantially cylindrical cross-section. As a result of a swaging process (or other similar mechanical deformation process), the swaged portion 69 may be defined by a larger outer diameter than an outer diameter defining the adjacent portion 76 of the sleeve 38. In some embodiments, the outer diameter defining the swaged portion may be larger than a corresponding inner diameter on the tubular member 34, resulting in the desired interference fit upon assembling the sleeve 38 thereto (e.g., via pressing, or the like).

[0084] The swaged portion 69 of FIG. 12D is illustrated with an outer diameter substantially larger than that of the outer diameter defining the adjacent portion 76 of the sleeve 38. However, it should be appreciated that the difference between the outer diameter of the swaged portion 69 and the outer diameter of the adjacent portion 76 of the sleeve 38 may be smaller or larger, depending on the embodiment. For example, in certain embodiments, the swaged portion 69 may only include a slight increase in outer diameter relative the adjacent sleeve portion 76 (e.g., a diameter increase of 0.001 in, 0.005 in, 0.010 in, 0.050 in, 0.100 in, or the like), to minimize the amount of swaging required and thus reduce weakening or stress concentrations in the sleeve 38.

[0085] In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 12D, the sleeve 38 may include a transition 71 between the swaged portion 69 and the adjacent portion 76. In some embodiments, the transition 71 may be defined by a radius (e.g., a fillet, or similar to flare 41), while in other embodiments, the transition 71 may be a substantially straight and tapered (e.g., similar to the tapered flare 68). In other embodiments, the transition 71 may include compound curves, stepped configurations, chamfered edges, or the like. In yet additional embodiments, the swaged portion 69 may be separately fabricated and joined to the adjacent sleeve portion 76. In such embodiments, the transition 71, if present, may be defined by a weld seam or the like.

[0086] In some embodiments, alone or in combination with other embodiments, the proximal end of the sleeve 38 may include one or more fins 70. Referring now to FIG. 12F, the sleeve 38 may include fins 70 that project outwardly from an outer surface of the sleeve 38, where each fin 70 is defined by a substantially semi-circular cross-sectional profile. The fins 70 may extend radially from the sleeve 38 surface.

[0087] In some embodiments, the fins 70 may gradually taper inwardly or outwardly along an axial direction of the sleeve 38, such that the radial dimension of the fins 70 varies (e.g., increases or decreased) along the length thereof, effectively creating a tapered fin 70. Additionally, or alternatively, other dimensions of the fins 70 may vary along the axial length of the sleeve 38, including diameter, width, or the like. For example, the diameters of the semi-circular fins 70 may decrease gradually along the axial direction of the sleeve 38 such as to promote a more controlled engagement between the sleeve 38 and the tubular member 34 during the coupling process described above.

[0088] As illustrated in FIG. 12H, in some embodiments, alone or in combination with other embodiments, the tubular member 34 may include one or more fins 70 extending radially inward from the inner surface of the tubular member 34.

[0089] In some embodiments having multiple fins 70, the fins 70 may be spaced equidistant from one another around the surface on which the fins 70 are present (e.g., the inner surface of the tubular member 34 and / or the outer surface of the sleeve 38). In other embodiments, the fins 70 may be non-uniformly distributed around the surface on which the fins 70 are present.

[0090] While primarily described herein with reference to a substantially semicircular geometry, it shall be appreciated that alternative cross-sectional configurations of one or more of the fins 70 are contemplated, including but not limited to rectangular, square, polygonal, or combinations thereof.

[0091] The one or more fins 70 described herein may be formed on the sleeve 38 and / or tubular member 34 through various suitable manufacturing processes, such as previously described with respect to the flare 41. For example, machining processes, such as milling with rotary cutting tools, broaching, turning operations, or the like, may selectively remove material from the surface(s) of the sleeve 38 and / or the tubular member 34 to form fins 70. Additionally, or alternatively, deformation-based processes such as roll-forming, rotary swaging using contoured rollers or dies, or the like, may plastically deform the surface(s) of the sleeve 38 and / or the tubular member 34 to form fins 70. Additionally, or alternatively, casting methods such as die casting, investment casting, or the like, may be used to form fins 70 integral with the sleeve 38 and / or the tubular member 34.

[0092] Referring now to FIG. 12I, in some embodiments, alone or in combination with other embodiments, the proximal end of the sleeve 38 may include a generally polygonal feature 74, such as polygonal flare. Although the sleeve 38 illustrated in FIG. 12I depicts a polygonal feature 74 in addition to a flare 68, it shall be appreciated that the flare 68 may be omitted in some embodiments, and / or other engagement feature(s) described herein may be used.

[0093] The polygonal feature 74 may be defined by a substantially polygonal cross-sectional shape, for example, triangular, square, pentagonal, hexagonal, heptagonal, octagonal, or the like. While the foregoing polygonal profile examples are defined by equal side lengths, it shall be appreciated that any polygonal profile is contemplated, with either equal or unequal side lengths.

[0094] In some embodiments, the polygonal feature 74 defines both a portion of the outer surface and the corresponding inner surface of the sleeve 38, resulting in a substantially constant wall thickness throughout its cross-sectional profile. In other embodiments, the polygonal feature 74 defines only the outer surface of the sleeve 38, while the corresponding inner surface is circular or another non-matching shape, causing the wall thickness of the polygonal feature 74 to vary across its cross-sectional profile.

[0095] In some embodiments, a portion of the polygonal feature 74 may extend radially outward from the surface of the sleeve 38. For example, the polygonal feature 74 may have a maximum outer surface dimension (e.g., a diameter of a theoretical circle circumscribed about the polygonal shape) larger than a maximum outer surface dimension of a portion of the sleeve 38 that is not defined by the polygonal feature 74 (e.g., adjacent portion 76).

[0096] In some embodiments, the maximum outer surface dimension of the polygonal feature 74 is sized to be larger than an inner diameter of the tubular member 34 (e.g., the inner diameter defining the inner surface of the tubular member 34, or the inner diameter defining at least a portion of the inner surface of the tubular member 34).

[0097] In some embodiments, the polygonal feature 74, or a portion thereof, may gradually taper inwardly or outwardly along an axial direction of the sleeve 38, such that one or more dimension of the polygonal feature 74 varies along the length thereof. For example, the circumscribed diameter of a hexagonal polygonal feature 74 may decrease or increase gradually along the axial direction of the sleeve 38 such as to promote more or less engagement between the sleeve 38 and the tubular member 34 during the coupling process described above.

[0098] As illustrated in FIG. 12K, in some embodiments, alone or in combination with other embodiments, the tubular member 34 may include a polygonal feature 74 along the inner surface of the tubular member 34.

[0099] The polygonal feature 74 described herein may be formed on the sleeve 38 and / or tubular member 34 through various suitable manufacturing processes, such as previously described with respect to the engagement features. For example, machining processes, such as milling with rotary cutting tools, broaching, turning operations, or the like, may selectively remove material from the surface(s) of the sleeve 38 and / or the tubular member 34 to form polygonal feature 74. Additionally, or alternatively, deformation-based processes such as roll-forming, rotary swaging using contoured rollers or dies, or the like, may plastically deform the surface(s) of the sleeve 38 and / or the tubular member 34 to form polygonal feature 74. Additionally, or alternatively, casting methods such as die casting, investment casting, or the like, may be used to form polygonal feature 74 integral with the sleeve 38 and / or the tubular member 34. Additionally, or alternatively, the polygonal feature 74 may be formed through an extrusion process during fabrication of the sleeve 38 and / or tubular member 34. Additionally, or alternatively, the polygonal feature may be separately fabricated and joined to the sleeve 38 (e.g., via welding, pressing, or the like).

[0100] In some embodiments, the polygonal feature 74 may extend the entirety of the axial length of the sleeve 38 and / or tubular member 34. In other embodiments, the polygonal feature 74 may only extend along a portion of the axial length of the sleeve 38 (e.g., the proximal end) and / or tubular member 34.

[0101] Polygonal feature 74 may be defined by sides 72 and corners 73 (e.g., a feature joining two sides 72). In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 12J, sides 72 are shown as substantially straight, with corners 73 being shown as being rounded features. It should be appreciated that sides 72 may alternatively have curvatures directed outwardly from a centroid of the polygonal shape defined by polygonal feature 74 (i.e., convex sides), or curvatures directed inwardly toward the centroid (i.e., concave sides). Variations in side curvature may be a result of the manufacturing process selected, the degree of material deformation in forming polygonal feature 74, characteristics of material(s) used, or the like. Additionally, or alternatively, corners 73 may have various embodiments, such as sharply pointed, flattened, chamfered, rounded, or the like.

[0102] In some embodiments, instead of the polygonal feature 74, the sleeve 38 may have a single projection (e.g., pear-shaped cross-section) or two projections (e.g., an oval shaped cross-section, or other cross section if the projections are not opposite each other). The sleeve 30 having one or more projections may be formed in the same or similar way as the flared and / or swaged sleeve 38 having the polygonal feature 74.

[0103] In some embodiments, alone or in combination with other embodiments, the proximal end of the sleeve 38 may include one or more dimples 78 (otherwise described as projections, or the like). Referring now to FIG. 12L, the sleeve 38 may include dimples 78 that project radially outward from an outer surface of the sleeve 38. The dimples 78 may be defined by a substantially convex protrusion along the outer surface of the sleeve 38. However, the dimples 78 may have any type of shape. In some embodiments, the inner surface of the sleeve 38 proximate each dimple 78 may be substantially undisturbed, resulting in a smooth uninterrupted inner surface. In other embodiments, the inner surface of the sleeve 38 may include a concave deformation proximate each dimple 78 as a result of the fabrication process used to form each dimple 78.

[0104] As illustrated in FIG. 12N, in some embodiments, alone or in combination with other embodiments, the tubular member 34 may include one or more dimples 78 extending radially inward from the inner surface of the tubular member 34. In some embodiments, the outer surface of the tubular member 34 proximate each dimple 78 may be substantially undisturbed, resulting in a smooth uninterrupted outer surface. In other embodiments, the outer surface of the tubular member 34 may include a concave deformation proximate each dimple 78 as a result of the fabrication process used to form each dimple 78.

[0105] In some embodiments that include a series of dimples 78 spaced apart from one another in an axial direction (e.g., the axial direction of the tubular member 34 and / or sleeve 38), the distance of projection of each subsequent dimple 78 along the axial direction may gradually increase or decrease to result in a taper inwardly or outwardly along the axial direction of the sleeve 38 and / or tubular member 34. Additionally, or alternatively, other dimensions of the dimples 78 may vary along the axial length of the sleeve 38, including diameter, width, or the like. For example, the diameters of the spherical dimples 78 may decrease gradually along the axial direction of the sleeve 38 such as to promote a more controlled engagement between the sleeve 38 and the tubular member 34 during the coupling process described above.

[0106] In some embodiments having multiple dimples 78, the dimples 78 may be spaced uniformly from one another in the axial direction of the sleeve 38 and / or tubular member 78. In other embodiments, the dimples 78 may be non-uniformly distributed from one another in the axial direction of the sleeve 38 and / or tubular member 78. Additionally, or alternatively, each of the one or more dimples 78 may be located in the same position in the axial direction of the sleeve 38 and / or tubular member but may be distributed circumferentially about the surface on which the dimples 78 are located. In such embodiments, the dimples 78 may be distributed circumferentially in a uniform manner, such that each dimple 78 has an equal radial distribution relative to each other. Alternatively, the dimples 78 may be distributed circumferentially in a non-uniform manner.

[0107] While shown graphically in FIGS. 12L-12N as having substantially spherical geometry, it shall be appreciated that alternative shapes of one or more of the dimples 78 are contemplated, including but not limited to rectangular, square, polygonal, uniform, non-uniform, or combinations thereof. In other embodiments the dimples 78 may be formed in both the sleeve 38 and the tubular member 34 such that the dimples 78 act as opposing keys and grooves (e.g., slots and / or projections, or the like) to align the sleeve 38 and the tubular member 34, as well as provide the interference fit described herein.

[0108] The one or more dimples 78 described herein may be formed on the sleeve 38 and / or tubular member 34 through various suitable manufacturing processes, as previously discussed herein with respect to the other engagement features. For example, machining processes, such as milling with rotary cutting tools, broaching, turning operations, or the like, may selectively remove material from the surface(s) of the sleeve 38 and / or the tubular member 34 to form dimples 78. Additionally, or alternatively, deformation-based processes such as roll-forming, rotary swaging using contoured rollers or dies, or the like, may plastically deform the surface(s) of the sleeve 38 and / or the tubular member 34 to form dimples 78. Additionally, or alternatively, casting methods such as die casting, investment casting, or the like, may be used to form dimples 78 integral with the sleeve 38 and / or the tubular member 34.

[0109] In addition to the methods described above with respect to coupling the sleeve 38 to the tubular member 34, in some embodiments that utilize the dimples 78, the sleeve 38 may be secured within the tubular member 34 through a crimping process. This process may include plastically deforming the sleeve 38 and the tubular member 34 to create a mechanically interlocked connection. For example, a punch may be driven transversely into the tubular member 34 once a sleeve 38 has been inserted therein (with or without and opposing die), indenting the material to form one or more dimples 78 around the tubular member 34 that extend through and into the sleeve 38, thereby establishing a mechanically coupled interface.

[0110] It should be understood that one or more of the engagement features described herein may be utilized in the sleeve 38 and / or the tubular member 34 of the pier bracket 20. It should also be understood that, in some embodiments, features such as grooves, ridges, serrations, surface roughing, or other surface modifications, may be provided on the one or more engagement features to improve the mechanical interlock (e.g., frictional engagement as a result of an interference fit) with the tubular member 34.

[0111] Referring now to FIGS. 13-14, the pier device (or pier assembly) in some embodiments may be a push pier 54 comprising of a plurality of tubular shaft sections inserted through the sleeve 38 and forced into the ground 56 so as to form an anchor to carry the loading of the wall 52. The first of a plurality of shaft sections of the push pier 54 may comprise a lower starter, or lead, section 58. As shown in the exploded views of FIGS. 13 and 14, the push pier lead section 58 includes an elongated main tubular shaft section having a proximal end and a distal end. Secured to the lower distal end of the lead section 58 may be a ground penetrating member, commonly known in the art as a friction collar 59, to facilitate penetration of the ground upon insertion. In alternate embodiments, instead of a friction collar 59, the lead section 58 may have a flared portion with or without a reinforcement member (e.g., ring, or the like) located within the flared portion to improve the strength of the ground penetrating member. The upper outer proximal end of the lead section 58 may form a terminal female coupling end which facilitates connection of an extending shaft to which one or more additional shaft extensions are connected. In other embodiments, the proximal end of the lead section 58 may have a terminal male coupling end which facilitates connection to one or more additional shaft extensions. It should be understood that other couplings (e.g., fasteners, welds, or the like) may be used to couple the two or more pier sections, as described in some embodiments in further detail below.

[0112] Referring to FIG. 15, additional push pier extension shafts 60 may be added. The shafts 60 have similar inside and outside diametrical dimensions as the push pier lead section 58. Axial end-to-end connection of adjoining shafts may take the form of and be constructed in any of a variety of ways. In an embodiment shown in FIG. 16, the connection may be formed by joining the hollow ends of adjoining shafts using a nipple crimping process. The nipple crimping process comprises inserting a hollow tubular coupling insert 62 into the ends of the shaft sections 60. As shown, the coupling insert 62 may be in the form of a male coupling element, but it is contemplated that it may take the form of a female coupling element without departing from the scope of the invention herein. The male coupling insert 62 has a reduced outer diameter just slightly less than the inner diameter of the shaft sections so as to facilitate connection thereto. This allows the coupling insert 62 to mate with corresponding female coupling sections of the additional adjoining extension shaft sections.

[0113] The coupling insert 62 may be fixed in the ends of contiguous shaft sections through the use of the nipple crimping process shown in FIGS. 17A-F. A punch 64 (e.g., a rounded punch, or the like) may be driven transversely into the joined tubular sections and coupling inserts to form dimples in one or more locations (e.g., in some embodiments at least three locations) spaced in the circumference of the tubes. This process facilitates attachment of additional extension shafts and creates a joint (e.g., fused joint, or the like) between the two adjoining shafts. In other embodiments, connectors, such as fasteners (e.g., bolts, nuts, screws, pins, dowels, or the like), clips, clamps, or the like) may be utilized to secure adjoining male and female coupling shaft sections. Alternatively, the coupling sections may be welded or threaded together. In the latter embodiment, the female coupling section may be comprised of a hollow female tubular element with outer diametrical dimensions the same as or approximating that of the shaft. The interior surface of the female coupling, however, tapers radially inwardly from its free end and may be threaded. The male coupling insert may be similarly constructed as a hollow tubular member but has a threaded free end which may be reverse-tapered for receipt in the tapered threaded end of the female shaft ends.

[0114] Referring now to FIG. 18, in use, initially an area of earth may be excavated immediately adjacent a foundation or other structure to expose the footer of the foundation, as shown in block 1802. This excavation area may extend slightly beneath the base of the footer. At block 1804, a chipping hammer may be used to prepare the footer for mounting the pier bracket. The vertical and bottom faces of the footer should be free (e.g., substantially, mostly, or completely) of dirt, debris, and loose concrete to provide firm bearing surfaces for the pier bracket 20. At block 1806, the pier bracket 20 may be mounted on the underpinning drive assembly and then lowered into the excavation area adjacent the foundation. At block 1808, the pier bracket 20 may then be seated against the footer and fastened to the foundation through steel concrete anchors. At block 1810, an underpinning anchor assembly may then be attached through the pier bracket 20. As shown in block 1812, the installer will slide the sleeve 38 into the tubular member 34 to the couple the two components together (e.g., in some embodiments the coupling occurs by using push piers and drive assembly, or the like). At block 1814, the drive assembly, including a hydraulic ram in some embodiments, then drives the push piers 54, 58 downward into the ground. At block 1816, additional shaft sections 60 of the push pier 54 may be added as necessary, until bedrock or a sufficient load bearing strata is reached. Thereafter, as shown in block 1818, the drive assembly may be removed from the pier bracket 20 and the foundation may be raised to the desired level in a conventional manner.

[0115] It is understood that helical anchors could also be used as the structural pier device. When using helical anchors, the helical anchors are secured to the underpinning drive assembly and turned into the ground in the conventional manner. Additional sections of the helical anchor may be added as necessary, until bedrock or a sufficient load bearing strata is reached. Thereafter, the drive assembly may be removed. The pier bracket 20 may then be slipped over the exposed end of the last helical anchor for interconnecting the helical anchor and the foundation or the pier bracket 20 may be pre-installed before the helical anchors are driven into the ground.

[0116] The introduction of one or more engagement features to the sleeve 38 (e.g., outer surface of the sleeve 38, or the like) and / or the tubular member 34 (e.g., inner surface of the tubular member 34) improves the mechanical interlock between these components, thereby improving the stability and alignment of the pier assembly (e.g., the push piers, or the like) during installation. The engagement features described herein, including a flare, tapered flare, fins, polygonal feature, dimples, or the like, provide resistance to axial and / or rotational displacement, which reduces the risk of unintended movement that could otherwise result in misalignment or unintended disassembly. A more secure coupling between the sleeve 38 and the tubular member 34 improves the accuracy of transfer of driving forces along the intended axis and reduces the likelihood of the push piers deviating from their designated path as they advance toward bedrock.

[0117] A more robust connection between the sleeve 38 and the tubular member 34 also restricts (e.g., prevents, reduces the chance of, or the like) disengagement or unintended slippage that could compromise the structural support. If the coupling between these components is inadequate, the push piers may shift in a manner that reduces their load-bearing capacity or causes them to lose proper engagement with the bracket 20. The inclusion of engagement features helps maintain a continuous and stable interface, resulting in improved effectiveness and reliability of the structural support system.

[0118] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. It will be further understood that terms used herein should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of this specification and the relevant art and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein. Certain terminology is used herein for convenience only and is not to be taken as a limitation on the disclosure. For example, words such as “upper,”“lower,”“left,”“right,”“horizontal,”“vertical,”“upward,” and “downward” merely describe the configuration shown in the figures. The referenced components may be oriented in an orientation other than that shown in the drawings and the terminology, therefore, should be understood as encompassing such variations unless specified otherwise.

[0119] It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being “connected,”“coupled,” or “operatively coupled” to another element, the elements can be formed integrally with each other, or may be formed separately and put together. Furthermore, “connected,”“coupled,” or “operatively coupled” to can mean the element is directly connected, coupled, or operatively coupled to the other element, or intervening elements may be present between the elements. Furthermore, “connected,”“coupled,” or operatively coupled” may mean that the elements are detachable from each other, or that they are permanently coupled together.

[0120] While certain exemplary embodiments have been described and shown in the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that such embodiments are merely illustrative of and not restrictive on the broad disclosure, and that this disclosure is not limited to the specific constructions and arrangements shown and described, since various other changes, combinations, omissions, modifications and substitutions, in addition to those set forth in the above paragraphs, are possible. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that various adaptations, modifications, and combinations of the just described embodiments can be configured without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure. Therefore, it is to be understood that, within the scope of the appended claims, the disclosure may be practiced other than as specifically described herein.

Claims

1. An anchor assembly configured to support a structure, the anchor assembly comprising:a pier bracket comprising:a seat configured to receive at least one structural member of the structure; anda tubular member coupled to the seat;a sleeve coupled to the tubular member via an interference fit; andone or more piers;wherein the sleeve receives the one or more piers.

2. The anchor assembly of claim 1, wherein the sleeve comprises an engagement feature.

3. The anchor assembly of claim 2, wherein the sleeve defines an upper portion and a lower portion, and wherein the engagement feature is proximate the upper portion of the sleeve.

4. The anchor assembly of claim 2, wherein the engagement feature extends radially outwardly from an outer surface of the sleeve.

5. The anchor assembly of claim 2, wherein the engagement feature comprises a flare.

6. The anchor assembly of claim 2, wherein the engagement feature comprises a tapered flare.

7. The anchor assembly of claim 2, wherein the engagement feature comprises at least one fin.

8. The anchor assembly of claim 2, wherein the engagement feature comprises a polygonal feature.

9. The anchor assembly of claim 2, wherein the engagement feature comprises at least one dimple.

10. The anchor assembly of claim 1, wherein the tubular member comprises an engagement feature.

11. The anchor assembly of claim 10, wherein the tubular member defines an upper portion and a lower portion, and wherein the engagement feature is proximate the upper portion of the tubular member.

12. The anchor assembly of claim 10, wherein the engagement feature extends radially inward from an inner surface of the tubular member.

13. The anchor assembly of claim 10, wherein the engagement feature comprises a flare, a tapered flare, one or more fins, a polygonal feature, or one or more dimples.

14. The anchor assembly of claim 1, wherein, as a result of the interference fit, the sleeve resists rotational movement or axial movement relative to the tubular member.

15. The anchor assembly of claim 1, wherein the sleeve is press fit into the tubular member as a result of the sleeve being slidably received by the tubular member.

16. The anchor assembly of claim 1, wherein the sleeve is coupled to the tubular member as a result of a deformation of the tubular member.

17. The anchor assembly of claim 1, wherein the sleeve is coupled to the tubular member as a result of a deformation of the sleeve.

18. A sleeve for an anchor assembly, the sleeve comprises:a tube having a proximal end and distal end,an engagement feature on the proximate end comprising a polygonal feature;wherein the polygonal feature is formed by expanding at least a portion of the tube adjacent the proximal end of the tube; andwherein the sleeve is configured to be coupled with a tubular member of a pier bracket and for receiving one or more piers to support a structure.

19. The sleeve of claim 18, wherein the engagement feature further comprises:a flare at the proximal end of the tube adjacent the polygonal feature.

20. A method for supporting a structure, the method comprising:installing a pier bracket to at least one structural member of the structure, wherein the pier bracket comprises:a seat configured to receive the at least one structural member of the structure; anda tubular member coupled to the seat;installing a sleeve to the tubular member via an interference fit; andinstalling one or more piers through the sleeve;securing a drive assembly to the pier bracket and the one or more piers; andadvancing, using the drive assembly, the one or more piers downwardly to reach bedrock or a load bearing strata to support the structure.

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