Element for slope stabilization, comprising a modular connecting and anchoring system

Abstract

An element (10) for slope stabilization particularly in the field of avalanche protection, ground, scree and rock retention or streambed stabilization, having a substantially cross-shaped strut part (1) in the form of a framework which defines a plane and is composed of a plurality of struts (2) that are coupled together, having a planar holder (3) fastened to the strut part (1), and having an anchor rod (4) or anchor element which projects rearwardly substantially perpendicular to the holder (3) and to the strut part (1) and which is fastened to the strut part (1), wherein: between each free end of the anchor rod (4) and the struts (2) are provided holding cables (15) for bracing the anchor rod (4) at a predetermined specific angle to the plane of the holder (3); on each free end of the struts (2) the element (10) is provided with a modular connecting system (20) which has at least one connection portion (5) that extends perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the struts (2) and is in the form of a tubular connecting piece or through-hole directly provided in the strut (2) for the purpose of coupling to adjoining elements (10) and with the simultaneously integrated possibility of anchoring the element (10) in the ground.

Description

[0001] Slope stabilization element with modular connection and anchoring system

[0002] The present invention relates to an element for slope stabilization, particularly in the field of avalanche protection, gliding snow, soil, scree, and rock retention, or stream and bank stabilization, as defined in the preamble of claim 1. Such elements for slope stabilization are also frequently used in road construction, settlement construction, or railway construction on the sides of routes to protect against scree or lateral soil from landslides. Such elements for stabilizing scree, soil, or stream bed stabilization are also used to specifically secure areas in the mountains or on slopes that are prone to avalanches or scree flows.A main area of ​​application for such elements for slope stabilisation is also road construction, when cuts are made into the mountainous terrain on the sides of roads in order to secure these side areas against later loss of soil or rock, particularly in the event of storms or similar.

[0003] Such an element for slope stabilization or embankment stabilization, known in the prior art, is described, for example, in WO 2022 / 171434 A1. This element comprises a strut section made up of struts connected in a cross-shaped manner in a central anchoring plate, in which a flat support in the form of a grid is spanned via wires. A central anchor rod, which is connected to the struts of the strut section, serves to secure the element upstream and to hold it in a scree slope or in the ground. The individual struts of the strut section in this previously known element can be folded together in pairs using a special mechanism in order to be smaller for transport. The slope stabilization elements described therein have proven their worth.

[0004] However, there are applications where a number of such elements must be arranged side by side on a slope. For such applications, the individual strut sections of the adjacent elements must then be laboriously connected to one another, for example using screw plates or screw connections that must be attached to the grid or to the areas of the strut section from the outside. In some cases, it has also been shown that anchoring with only the central anchor rod is not always sufficient. In such cases, the previously known elements of this type are then fixed in the ground individually to the grid sections or via specially attached screwed clamps with so-called anchor brackets.In a second step, the corresponding ground anchors, which can be implemented as screw anchors or micropiles, for example, can then be indirectly fixed to the elements using these protruding anchor brackets. All of this is relatively time-consuming and requires a large number of individual components that must be attached to the elements on site, often in difficult terrain. Furthermore, the anchoring in the ground is often not very secure, and unwanted detachment can occur even with elements secured with ground anchors. Last but not least, the alignment and firm fixation in various applications when using several adjacent elements of this type for slope stabilization with such a system has not yet been satisfactorily solved.

[0005] Against this background, the object of the present invention is to enable improved securing of slope protection elements across their entire width in the ground, even at multiple points, while simultaneously firmly fixing both the individual slope protection elements and a combination of several such elements arranged together at a construction site. Furthermore, the elements according to the invention are intended to enable greater variability and more adaptability with regard to installation and fixation on site, while reducing overall costs.

[0006] This object is achieved with a slope stabilization element having the features of claim 1. Advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0007] According to the invention, as defined in claim 1, an element for slope stabilization, particularly in the field of avalanche protection, soil, scree and rock retention or stream bed stabilization, is provided with a substantially cross-shaped strut part in the form of a framework spanning a plane, comprising several struts coupled to one another, with a flat support attached to the strut part and an anchor rod or anchor element projecting rearwardly substantially perpendicular to the support and the strut part, which is attached to the strut part preferably via a ball joint or other articulated connection, wherein between a free end of the anchor rod and the struts, holding cables are provided for bracing the anchor rods at a preset specific angle, in particular an angle of approximately 90°, or a slightly deviating angle, to the plane of the support, wherein the element is characterized in thatthat at the free ends of the struts there is a modular connection system which comprises at least one connecting section extending transversely to the longitudinal axis of the struts in the form of a pipe socket or through-hole provided directly in the strut for coupling with adjacent elements and at the same time integrating the possibility of, for example, horizontal and / or vertical ground anchoring of the element, i.e. anchoring in the ground or in the rubble at the point of installation of the element.

[0008] The modular connection system according to the invention is thus a connection element or connection point integrated directly into the ends of the struts, which is implemented, for example, in the end points of the respective struts of the strut section for slope stabilisation as a connection element provided in the strut itself or firmly connected thereto, i.e. integrated. The form of the modular connection system thus provided enables both a firm and secure fixation of both a connection between adjacent individual slope stabilisation elements and an anchoring of the same in the ground. This anchoring can be achieved, for example, via anchor elements which are mounted through the hole or pipe socket at the end of the struts, whereby at the same time the coupling with adjacent slope stabilisation elements at the same location takes place using the same elements.

[0009] With this kind of integrated, modular connection with a dual function, adjacent slope protection elements can be firmly and securely coupled together, while simultaneously securing them to the underlying soil within the same connecting element. The separate fastening elements previously required for these two purposes, which had to be screwed onto these elements or struts, for example, for attaching brackets for ground anchors, are no longer necessary. This increases the strength of the connection points, both in terms of connecting adjacent elements and anchoring them in the soil.Secondly, this modular connection system, integrated directly into the end areas of the slope protection elements' struts, allows for a wide variety of fastening, assembly, and coupling options that were not available with prior art elements of this type. Even in difficult and steep slope situations, this simplified design allows for a wide variety of modifications and adaptations to the specific application of the slope protection elements according to the invention.

[0010] The strut section, formed from cross-connected struts, and the attached flat support, for example in the form of a grid or wire mesh, ensure secure support over a relatively large area of ​​soil at the installation site. The rear anchor rod, mounted centrally on the strut section and with a relatively long extension relative to the width of the element, can be used to securely fixate the element, for example, by inserting it into the soil or by means of attached support blocks or similar devices, if the element is installed or erected without being fully embedded in the soil, for example as an avalanche protection device.The modular connection system according to the invention, which is further provided at the free ends of the struts and comprises at least one connection section extending transversely to the longitudinal axis of the struts for assembly or a corresponding hole or opening, also allows for the direct attachment of additional anchoring points, connecting elements, or the like for coupling the elements in place with adjacent similar elements or for securing or fixing and anchoring the element, even at the four corners of the strut section. The modular connection system according to the invention thus enables versatile applications as required, with secure fixing and assembly of the elements in place.

[0011] The element can, for example, be provided in the form of a row of several such elements lying next to each other, coupled together to form a solid overall structure by directly fixing the struts to one another, without the need for additional, complex external connections fastened using screws or retaining brackets, which must be attached, for example, to the outside of the struts or to the wire mesh serving as a flat support. This ensures very stable anchoring directly to the struts in the ground in several directions. The individual elements can be securely attached both horizontally and in a vertical direction perpendicular to the horizontal direction using the modular connection system, which features a connection section provided directly in the end section of the struts.

[0012] Because the modular connection system is provided in the form of an opening of the connecting section extending directly into the struts, for example in the form of a pipe socket or through hole, a secure and firm fixation can be achieved with comparatively little effort and at reduced costs, even without the need for additional external elements such as clamps, screw connections, tensioning elements, etc. The modular connection system according to the invention is characterized by high overall strength and security in the connection, which applies both to coupling with adjacent neighboring elements and to anchoring in the ground at one or more ends of the struts, depending on requirements and the specific application.In this way, a type of combined fixation / coupling is enabled at the free ends of the strut section of the elements according to the invention, i.e., a jointly interacting and jointly coupled at a single point. Both the holding forces of the elements to one another (connection purpose) and the firm fixation and securing in the ground (anchoring effect) are achieved with one and the same modular connection system at the common point of the connecting section via corresponding components that are inserted and inserted there.

[0013] This eliminates the need for additional fixing elements such as screwed-on plates with anchor holes or similar devices. Fixing takes place directly in the connecting section or the through hole in the strut part itself, which is present in the material of the struts at their free ends. The invention therefore offers further significant improvements regarding the joint installation of such slope stabilization elements, which are to be provided adjacently over a larger area. The overall statics for mounting in the ground are also further improved, since additional anchor rods can be provided at the respective free ends in addition to the central anchor rod.With the modular connection system according to the invention, further elements can also be attached directly to the struts of the strut part, for example necessary nets, grids or other components to be attached to the element for a complete realization of completely coupled and firmly fixed slope protection or embankment protection.

[0014] The inventive solution for a novel slope stabilization element also offers a rigid and thus very secure fixation option, which can be implemented in many different ways, at the free ends of the struts of the strut portion of the element: For example, a pipe socket is integrated by welding almost directly into the material of the struts themselves, i.e., it is firmly fixed, or a corresponding hole is provided in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis of the strut, i.e., essentially at 90° to the plane of the flat support. This virtually single-point fixation ensures both a connection to adjacent, neighboring elements and secure fixation and anchoring of the element or a combination of multiple elements in the ground.The latter is possible in both horizontal and vertical directions if corresponding connecting elements are provided by inserting them into the connecting element at the free end of the struts. Thus, a type of combined fixing and connection option is provided with the modular connection system according to the invention. The modularity lies in the fact that the connection options and the insertion of ground anchors, etc., can be individually and variably adapted to each application. Even with fewer ground anchors, good fixing in the ground is thus possible. With this innovative type of connecting and anchoring of such elements, even quite large-scale slope protection systems that are firmly held together and securely fixed in the ground can be realized with the invention.

[0015] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the connecting section at the free end of the element's struts has an adapted shape with areas for the simultaneous, in particular optional, attachment of a connecting plate and for inserting or passing through at least one anchor element. The connecting section of the modular connection system provided at the free ends of the strut parts is thus provided, according to the invention, with shape-matching areas for attaching or inserting various adapted connecting elements. For example, a pipe socket is firmly integrated by welding into the connecting section, which is provided with slightly protruding areas adapted for the attachment, insertion, or attachment of both flat connecting plates with corresponding holes and for anchoring with anchor bolts or similar.The resulting modular connection system has adapted internal and / or external shapes at the connecting sections of the struts for attaching, attaching, or inserting additional elements, such as dome plates or pipe sockets for holding screw anchors. This allows for secure fixation both in the ground and lateral fixation by connecting to other adjacent elements at the corresponding connecting sections. A single connection point thus provides various technical functions for improved stability and securing of the slope protection elements.

[0016] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the modular connection system of the slope protection elements according to the invention comprises plate, tube, and / or profile elements that can be positively inserted or plugged onto the connecting section of the struts and are each adapted in shape for connection or anchoring purposes. In this way, a type of modular construction kit is provided for connection, anchoring, or coupling with other elements. The modular connection system comprises elements that can be positively inserted or plugged onto the connecting section and are adapted in shape such that they provide initial support and fixation at least in one direction through the positive fit. The connection and anchoring options are thus further increased.The elements provided in this modular system or as plug-in components can be plugged or inserted into each other and into the struts. This means they can be inserted or inserted into a hole or pipe socket in the connecting section of the struts, either individually or in combination. This ensures good support and secure fixation of the elements, even at the free ends of the strut section.

[0017] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, insertable module tube parts are provided at the free ends of the struts, whose diameter is adapted to the connecting section of the modular connection system and which can be inserted into the connecting section. Such module tube parts or spherical plates have the advantage that they are pre-fixed to the struts by simply inserting them into the connecting section. The coupling is achieved by the form-fitting connection between the tube section or pipe socket, which is adapted in diameter, while slippage is prevented by an end-side plate element or collar element on the module tube parts. The module tube parts are also well suited for the secure fixation and screwing of ground anchors, which can be passed through them.

[0018] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the modular connection system for coupling and anchoring the element comprises at least one connecting plate with an elongated hole or, alternatively, with two parallel holes arranged next to one another for the simultaneous insertion and connection of two adjacent connecting sections of the elements. Such a connecting plate can thus also be used to secure and connect elements across multiple elements with adjacent elements arranged next to or above them. For this purpose, the connecting plate has a type of elongated hole or two separate holes or recesses arranged next to one another, which, simply by inserting it onto, for example, a slightly protruding welded pipe socket on the connecting section, allow for fixation during assembly and attachment of the elements.After anchoring with a through-hole ground anchor or a screw connection, a very firm and secure coupling with multiple elements can be achieved, so that a complete element that is virtually one-piece in terms of stability and force absorption can be provided at the location of the connection section for securing a slope or embankment, even over a large area. According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, a modular pipe section is provided with two holes, pipe sections, or openings aligned at approximately 70° to 120°, preferably 90°, to each other for differently aligned anchor elements. The modular pipe section can preferably be attached to the struts by simply inserting it into the connection section and then offers fixation at one point of the element in two directions, for example to ensure vertical and simultaneous horizontal securing in the soil of a slope.One anchoring with one or more ground anchors or soil anchors can be passed directly through the pipe section of the modular pipe section, while the second anchoring option is then provided at an opening or hole in the, for example, shoe-like profile element of the modular pipe section. An opening or hole can also be provided in the form of a laterally open cut in a plate part of the modular pipe section, as long as a firm fixation of ground anchors to the modular pipe section is ensured in order to ensure the installation and retention in the ground at the element's location in two different aligned directions offset by approximately 70° to 120°, preferably 90°, from each other. In this way, a type of double anchoring option is provided at one and the same point on the element, namely a connection section at optionally one free end (or several) of a strut part.

[0019] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, a spherical plate with a diameter adapted for insertion, in particular with a pipe socket and a plate-shaped retaining collar, is provided for combined and, in this respect, simultaneous coupling and anchoring to the connecting section of a strut. Such a spherical plate can be used for improved fixation and easier screwing of ground anchors. The screw head is thus held by the retaining collar, while being securely and accurately guided in the pipe socket for penetration into the ground. Coupling with other adjacent elements can also be directly achieved, for example, if the spherical plate has a larger lateral extension with a second hole section or similar. With this type of spherical plate, further improved anchoring can be achieved at the free ends of the struts of the element.According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, a sheet metal profile with retaining edges that project at least partially at right angles at the edge on the connecting section or the free ends of the struts of the strut part of the element is provided as the connecting plate on the modular connecting system. By attaching such a connecting plate to, for example, slightly protruding pipe sockets on the connecting section, an initial fixation of the connecting plate in several directions can be achieved. The slightly protruding edges already provide lateral support for the connecting plate, preventing it from twisting, slipping, or shifting relative to the structure of the element on the struts. The attachment and assembly of the modular connecting system are thus significantly simplified with the invention, which also implies reduced costs.

[0020] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the modular connection system is implemented as a type of plug-in modular system with parts that are dimensionally coordinated. Such a modular system, with the option of plugging or attaching the individual, form-matched elements into or onto one another, also makes it possible to accommodate different dimensions, for example, with regard to the diameters of ground anchors, etc. Furthermore, the individual components can be secured against each other by simply plugging them together, essentially at the point of the connecting section. Lateral force absorption is thus ensured simply by plugging them together, and their final form fit only needs to be secured by a terminal anchor or screw connection.

[0021] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the struts of the element are provided as tubular elements, in particular metallic tubular elements, and have a substantially rectangular or square cross-section. The struts thus have very high inherent rigidity and strength against torsion, deformation, and for absorbing forces that may act on the slope stabilizing element. Furthermore, unlike the I-shaped or T-shaped cross-section of conventional metal supports for such elements, it is easily possible to attach the connecting section directly into the tubular material of the struts. The struts offer sufficient space on their flat front and rear surfaces for attaching connecting parts, connecting elements, coupling elements, etc. for providing the modular connection system.

[0022] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, a wire mesh or netting is provided as a flat support on the slope stabilizing element. Such a netting or netting can be easily installed between the roughly cross-shaped struts of the strut section and secured, for example, between the ends of the struts via wire ropes firmly connected around the perimeter. This type of flat support has the advantage of being continuous against water while still providing secure support for debris or soil to stabilize slopes.

[0023] Further features, advantages, and aspects of the present invention will be described in more detail below using several embodiments of the invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. In the drawings:

[0024] Fig. 1a and Fig. 1b show in a plan view and in a side view a first embodiment of an element according to the invention for slope stabilization with a retaining net as a flat holder and connecting sections of the modular connection system provided at the free ends of the struts;

[0025] Fig. 2 is a side view of an embodiment of a slope stabilization element according to the invention with attached anchors by means of anchor rod and ground anchors in horizontal and vertical directions at the connecting section of the modular connection system;

[0026] Fig. 3 is a plan view of an embodiment of several elements coupled together for slope protection according to the invention with the modular connection and coupling system according to the invention in a composite application;

[0027] Fig. 4 is a partial perspective view of an embodiment of the slope stabilizing element according to the invention with a modular connection system in the region of the connecting section with two adjacent elements and a ground anchor in the horizontal direction;

[0028] Fig. 5 is a partial perspective view of an embodiment of an element according to the invention for slope stabilization in the application case of a connection point between two adjacent, coupled elements with anchoring possibility in both horizontal and vertical directions in relation to the ground;

[0029] Fig. 6 is a partial plan view of a further embodiment of the slope protection element according to the invention with a modular connection system in the region of a coupling between two adjacent slope protection elements;

[0030] Fig. 6a is an exploded view of the modular connection system of an element according to the invention for slope stabilization according to the embodiment of Fig. 6;

[0031] Fig. 6b is a partial side view of the embodiment of an element according to the invention for slope protection according to Fig. 6 in the area of ​​the modular, integrated connection system; and

[0032] Fig. 6c is a partial, perspective exploded view of the embodiment according to Fig. 6 in the area of ​​the modular connection system according to the invention.

[0033] An embodiment of an element 10 according to the invention for slope stabilization is shown in Fig. 1a, 1b and Fig. 2, respectively in side views and in a plan view. In this first embodiment, the element 10 for slope stabilization comprises a cross-shaped strut part 1 made of two struts 2 that are firmly connected to one another at an intersection point, at which an anchor rod 4 is attached for rear fixation. The strut part 1 is produced with a flat holder 3 as a retaining means in the form of a wire mesh 14 or a grid that is covered over essentially the entire area spanned by the struts 2 of the strut part 1. For this purpose, wires or rods or thick wire ropes are attached to the free ends of the struts 2, over which the wire mesh 14 of the flat holder 3 is spanned between the areas of the struts 2.Such elements 10 serve for slope stabilization, embankment stabilization, or avalanche protection and are erected in the field or installed in the ground on dependent embankment areas. For this purpose, an anchor rod 4 is provided in a central region of a support plate 17 of the strut part 1. This anchor rod 4 points rearward from the element 10 and is connected to the struts 2 via cables 15 to secure the alignment and position of the anchor rod 4. The anchor rod 4 is preferably mounted on the strut part 1 via a ball joint, thus being adjustable in its angular position to the plane of the bracket 3 of the slope stabilization element 10. An anchor base plate 18 can either be mounted on the free end of the anchor rod 4, or it can be anchored directly in the surrounding soil or rubble of a sloping area in the field (see also Fig. 2 and Fig. 3).According to an advantageous aspect, the anchor rod 4 is mounted on the strut part 1 in an articulated manner, allowing it to be easily pivoted in all directions. For this purpose, a ball joint connection can be provided between the anchor rod 4 and the struts 2.

[0034] According to the invention, a modular, i.e., variably combinable, connection system 20 for coupling and / or anchoring is provided on the slope stabilizing element 10 at the respective free ends of the struts 2 of the strut part 1. The connection system 20 according to the invention comprises at least one connection section 5, which is directly integrated into the struts 2 at their free ends. This connection section 5 extends in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis of the struts 2 and has a form of pipe sockets or through holes provided directly in the strut, which are shaped to provide a combined coupling to the adjacent, neighboring elements 10 and, at the same time, the possibility of, for example, horizontal and / or vertical anchoring of the element 10 in the surrounding earth or soil.

[0035] As a modular connection system 20, in this embodiment of Fig. 1a to Fig. 3, a connection section 5 in the form of a pipe socket or through-hole provided directly in the strut—for example, welded—is provided at each of the free ends of the struts 2. The connection section 5 thus serves for the attachment of fastening / coupling elements, which can be directly attached and inserted into the strut part 2 in the form of the modular connection system 20 according to the invention. In the connection section 5 of the modular connection system 20 according to the invention, the elements 10 each have a variable and diversely usable uniform connection point for coupling the elements 10 to the surrounding soil or a combination in the form of several adjacent such elements 10 for larger-area slope protection (see Fig. 3).

[0036] In the application of the exemplary embodiment of an element 10 according to the invention shown in Fig. 3, three essentially rectangular elements 10 are arranged next to one another in a row, with the first of the elements 10 on the left side being attached transversely and the second and third each being attached vertically. Here, too, the elements 10 have a modular connection system 20 in the form of connecting sections 5 provided at the free ends of the struts 2. In the connecting sections 5, some of the adjacent elements 10 are anchored by means of ground anchors or anchor elements 7, and some of the adjacent elements 10 are connected by means of a connecting plate 6.In the modular connection system 20 at the four ends of the strut parts 1, anchor elements 7 and / or connecting plates 6 are also provided in the connecting sections 5, which extend in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the struts 2, by simply inserting, screwing, and positively connecting them. This not only provides a connection option between the adjacently arranged elements 10, but also a firm attachment in the ground at specific points of the system of elements 10. In addition to the central anchor rods 4 attached to the center of the cross-shaped strut parts 1, this provides even better additional securing of the relatively large-area overall element made up of the individual elements 10 for slope stabilization, which is provided directly in the material of the struts 2.

[0037] 4 and 5 show detailed views of two further exemplary embodiments of the elements 10 according to the invention with a modular connection system 20 at the free ends of the struts 2 of the strut part 1. In the variant in Fig. 4, an approximately rectangular connecting plate 6 with an elongated hole 9 extending across the respective connecting sections 5 is plugged onto a lower end of two adjacent elements 10 at the respective connecting sections 5. For this purpose, the connecting sections 5 in this example are formed with welded-in pipe sockets that project slightly forward and are of such dimensions that the connecting plate 6 with the elongated hole 9 can be easily plugged on. If required, a second rear connecting plate 19 can also be provided in order to couple the elements 10 from two sides.However, this is not absolutely necessary if the front connecting plate 6 is sufficient.

[0038] This creates a kind of positive connection between the parts 2, 6. The connecting sections 5 are therefore not provided with simple through holes in the tubular cross section of the material of the struts 2, but with, for example, welded-in pipe sockets, which enable a through hole in the connecting sections 5 pointing transversely to the longitudinal direction of the struts 2 for the combined and interacting connection / coupling with the ground and the adjacent elements 10 (cf. Fig. 3).

[0039] The connecting plate 6 can be further secured to the elements 10 using so-called U-bolts 16 if required. However, the connection and force absorption are primarily achieved by simply plugging it onto the protruding pipe sockets of the connecting section 5. An anchor element 7 is inserted and screwed into the left-hand connecting section 5 in Fig. 4 to securely fix the two elements 10 together in the ground. This essentially achieves a dual function of the modular connection system 20 in one place: Firstly, the anchor element 7 secures the common support in the ground, and the connecting plate 6, which is also inserted or plugged on, simultaneously ensures the firm connection and coupling of the two adjacent elements 10 by screwing in the anchor element 7.

[0040] This creates a quasi-rigid connection at the connecting section 5 with relatively simple measures, few individual parts, and low assembly effort. In the example in Fig. 4, a correspondingly shaped module pipe part 8 is inserted into the left-hand connecting section 5 to hold and guide the anchor element 7. This module pipe part 8 can, for example, have the shape of a spherical plate 13, i.e., a pipe socket 131 with a plate part or retaining collar 132 welded or bent onto the end, in order to achieve a type of counterbearing for the screw connection of the anchor element 7 and to achieve adaptation to the diameter of the respective anchor element 7. Direct anchoring in the connecting sections 5 without such a module pipe part 8 using appropriately dimensioned anchor elements 7 is also possible according to the invention.

[0041] In the variant shown in a perspective detailed view in Fig. 5, a connecting plate 6 and optionally also a rear connecting plate 19 are also attached to a lower end of the struts 2 of the strut parts 1, which plate engages over both connecting sections 5 of the adjacent elements 10 and thus securely holds them together simply by plugging them together in a form-fitting manner. Furthermore, a modified form of a modular tube part 12 is provided here: An angular metal profile element in the form of a shoe-like section 121 (angle shoe) is provided with plates aligned at approximately a right angle, i.e. approximately 90°, i.e. e.g. 70° to 120° to each other, with holes 11 or recesses and a pipe socket 122 in this example, into which anchor elements 7 can be screwed or fastened in combination in different directions to the modular connection system 20.In the example shown, both a horizontal anchoring with the upper anchor element 7, which is inserted through the connecting section 5 and essentially holds the connecting plate 6, and a vertical anchoring with the second, lower anchor element 7 are attached to the module tube part 12. This results in an even better anchoring of the elements 10 overall while simultaneously coupling the elements 10 to one another.

[0042] Fig. 6 to Fig. 6c show various views of a further embodiment of a slope protection element 10 according to the invention with a modular connection / coupling system 20 for fixing, anchoring, and coupling to adjacent elements 10. Fig. 6 shows a partial plan view of the further embodiment of the slope protection according to the invention with an element 10 that comprises crosswise arranged struts 2 of a strut part 1, at the ends of which the modular connection system 20 already described for the previous embodiments is provided in a modified form. The modular connection system 20 according to the invention is shown in this embodiment in Fig.6 is provided from a modular tube part 12 with a type of double anchoring option: An angle shoe 121 is formed with a protruding pipe socket 122, which is inserted into a hole provided for this purpose in the corresponding dimension on the tubular connection section 5 of the end of the respective struts 2 of the strut part 1. Between the modular tube part 12 and the fastening section or connection section 5 of the strut 2, a connecting plate 6 is inserted, which is provided with a corresponding elongated hole 9, so that both the left slope protection element 10, provided with the fastening in this embodiment in the form of an anchor rod 7, and the adjacent slope protection element 10 can be firmly connected to one another and coupled quasi-rigidly to the strut ends.Integrated and at the same location in the connecting section 5 of the strut 2 of the left element 10, an anchor element 7 is also provided, which in this example is shown as a threaded rod and can be inserted through the interior of the pipe section of the connecting element 5 of the strut 2 and the pipe section 122 of the module pipe part 12 and fixed in the soil behind it (not shown).

[0043] This assembly of integrated and joint fixing and coupling of adjacent slope protection elements 10 is illustrated in the exploded side view of the exemplary embodiment according to the invention in Fig. 6a. As can be seen from the side view of Fig. 6a, in addition to a first anchor 7 mounted transversely to the clamping plane of the holding element 10, a second anchor 7 is mounted at an angle of approximately 70° in the further hole of the angle shoe 121, which, however, is not necessary and is only optional in this exemplary embodiment for an even more secure anchoring in the ground. The form of an exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 6 to Fig. 6c can also be realized in combination with the first exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 4, i.e.not with an angle shoe 121, but with a spherical plate 13 with anchoring provided only in one direction perpendicular to the clamping surface of the slope protection element 10 with a single anchor element 7. For this purpose, only an exchange of the module pipe part 12 with the module pipe part 8 is necessary. As can be clearly seen from Fig. 6a in the exploded view and the further illustrations of the side view Fig. 6b and the perspective, partially exploded view Fig. 6c, in this embodiment of the invention the modular connection system 20 is constructed from a type of angle shoe 121 with a pipe socket 122 attached to it. The pipe socket 122 is slightly smaller in diameter than the hole or opening at the ends of the struts 2 in the connection section 5, which here is provided, for example, in the form of a pipe socket with plate-shaped welding at the ends of the struts 2 formed as a rectangular tube. As can be seen in particular from Fig.6a, 6b and 6c, after the connecting plate 6 has been plugged in for coupling with the adjacent, similarly designed slope protection element 10, the latter is fastened via the elongated hole 9.

[0044] The connection plate 6 is attached here via a screw connection 21 with a screw part, in this example formed as a U-bolt 16, to the connecting ends of the struts 2. The connection plate 6 is thus firmly fixed to the individual end regions of the struts 2 of the adjacent two slope protection elements 10. The modular connection system 20 according to the invention also allows for fixation via ground-side anchor elements 7 at one and the same location, namely the connecting sections 5 of the struts 1, whereby these do not have to be attached at every point of such a system.However, the modular form of the connection system 20 allows, at selected or multiple locations on the respective ends of the cross-shaped struts 2 of the slope protection elements 10, secure fixing either only in one direction or in multiple directions at one and the same location via one and the same fixing option via the hole or the pipe socket in the connection section 5 of the respective struts 2. Fig. 6a also shows the combined form with two anchor elements 7, wherein the anchor element 7 shown vertically in Fig. 6a can be omitted if simple securing via the second anchor element 7 in the direction transverse to the clamping plane of the holding element 10 is sufficient in the respective application.

[0045] Fig. 6a and correspondingly Figs. 6b and 6c also show a possible form of securing the retaining cables 15. Here, a fastening 22 in the form of an eyelet-shaped element is shown, which is firmly connected to the strut part 2 by screwing or welding. The mounting of the retaining cables 15 can also be carried out in other ways, with the fastening of the retaining cables 15 preferably taking place near the end regions of the struts 2 of the cross-shaped strut part 1, outside of the securing region for the modular connection system / anchoring system 20 according to the invention.

[0046] The anchor elements 7 can be implemented as threaded rods with screw nuts 24, as shown, or can be other ground anchors or similar elements that can be firmly fixed in the ground. In any case, one form of fixation always occurs at one and the same point in a manner integrated into the strut 2 according to the invention, namely both for anchoring in the ground (anchor elements 7) and for coupling adjacent elements 10 (connecting plate 6), whereby this occurs both at an end region firmly coupled to the struts 2 and integrated into a similar fastening point or fastening point (pipe socket 5 or through hole in the material of the struts 2).

[0047] With such an inventive form of variable connection, coupling, and anchoring of such slope protection elements 10 designed for heavy loads, several technical advantages are achieved. Not only is production simplified due to fewer individual parts, but secure fixation and simplified on-site assembly are also possible, even in difficult terrain such as mountains. Flexible adaptation to the respective soil conditions is also easily ensured with the inventive modular form of connection and anchoring of such slope protection elements 10.

[0048] Thus, various advantageous variants and embodiments can be produced with different and optionally interlocking modular tube parts, plate elements, or the like using the modular connection system 20 according to the invention at the respective specific connecting sections 5 of the free ends of the struts 2. The invention thus offers significant technical advantages with regard to adaptation to the respective on-site conditions, anchoring options, and a significant improvement in the stability, statics, and securing of the slope stabilization elements 10. List of reference symbols

[0049] Strut part

[0050] strut

[0051] Bracket (net or wire mesh 14)

[0052] anchor rod

[0053] Connecting section strut

[0054] connecting plate

[0055] Anchor element

[0056] Module pipe part

[0057] Slotted hole connecting plate

[0058] Element for slope stabilization

[0059] Hole for anchor element

[0060] Modular pipe part with double anchoring option

[0061] Angle shoe

[0062] pipe socket

[0063] dome plate

[0064] pipe socket

[0065] Retaining collar

[0066] Wire mesh from bracket 3

[0067] tether

[0068] U-screw

[0069] Holding plate anchor rod 4

[0070] Anchor base plate rear connection plate modular connection system

[0071] Screw connection plate 6

[0072] Fastening retaining rope 15

[0073] Washer anchor element 7

[0074] Nut anchor element 7

Claims

Claims 1. Element (10) for slope protection, particularly in the field of avalanche protection, soil, scree and rock retention or stream bed stabilisation, with a substantially cross-shaped strut part (1) in the form of a framework spanning a plane and consisting of several struts coupled to one another (2), with a flat holder (3) fastened to the strut part (1) and with an anchor rod (4) or anchor element projecting rearwardly substantially perpendicular to the holder (3) and the strut part (1) and which is fastened to the strut part (1), wherein between a free end of the anchor rod (4) and the struts (2) respective holding cables (15) for bracing the anchor rod (4) at a preset specific angle to the plane of the holder (3) are provided, characterized in that the element (10) has a modular connection system (20) at each of the free ends of the struts (2), which comprises at least one connection section (5) extending transversely to the longitudinal axis of the struts (2) in the form of a pipe socket or through hole provided directly in the strut (2) for coupling with adjacent elements (10) and at the same time the possibility of anchoring the element (10) to the ground integrated therein.

2. Element (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that the connecting section (5) has an adapted shape with areas for the simultaneous, in particular optional, attachment of a connecting plate (6) and for the insertion or passage of at least one anchor element (7).

3. Element (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the connecting system (20) comprises plate, tube and / or profile elements (6, 7, 8) which can be inserted or plugged onto the connecting section (5) in a form-fitting manner and are each adapted in shape for connecting or anchoring purposes.

4. Element (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that module tube parts (8, 12) adapted in diameter to the connecting section (5) and insertable are provided for a positive connection with it.

5. Element (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connecting system (20) has at least one connecting plate (6) with an elongated hole (9) or with two holes for simultaneous plugging onto and connecting two adjacent connecting sections (5).

6. Element (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a module tube part (12) is provided with two holes (11), tube sections or openings aligned at approximately 70° to 120°, preferably at 90°, to one another for anchor elements (7) aligned differently from one another.

7. Element (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that for the combined and, at this point, simultaneous coupling and anchoring to the connecting section (5), a dome plate (13) with a diameter adapted for insertion, in particular with a pipe socket (131) and a plate-shaped retaining collar (132), is provided.

8. Element (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a sheet metal profile with retaining edges projecting at right angles at least in sections on the edge side on the connecting section (5) or the struts (2) is provided as the connecting plate (6).

9. Element (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the modular connection system (20) is realized as a plug-in modular system with parts whose dimensions are coordinated with one another.

10. Element (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the struts (2) are provided as tubular elements and have a substantially rectangular or square cross-section.

1. Element (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the flat holder (3) is a wire mesh (14) or a net.

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