Articulable Erosion Control Mattress with Rough Bottom Surface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing articulating erosion control mattresses made of interconnected concrete blocks are labor-intensive to manufacture and handle due to their heavy weight and complex assembly, and they require large machines for installation, which are cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for forming and rolling a flexible concrete mattress with interconnected blocks, where the blocks have a rough bottom surface for frictional engagement and smooth side and top surfaces, allowing for easy handling and installation by unrolling the mattress with the rough surface facing downwards, utilizing a trolley with a roller system to transport and deploy the mattress.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional concrete blocks are used for erosion control mattresses, then erosion control function is provided, but the blocks are heavy and difficult to transport and install
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from solid concrete to a cellular concrete structure with air voids. This reduces the density and weight of the blocks while maintaining the erosion control function through the interconnected cellular structure that provides stability and friction on the ground surface.
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional casting methods are used, then blocks are formed, but the bottom surface is smooth which reduces frictional engagement with ground
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different surface qualities to different parts of the block. The bottom surface is formed with a rough texture to maximize frictional engagement with the ground, while the top and side surfaces maintain smooth finishes for aesthetic purposes. This local differentiation of surface quality resolves the contradiction between ease of manufacture and ground engagement effectiveness.
3Reliability
If mattresses are made with rough surfaces for ground engagement, then friction is improved, but the appearance becomes unsightly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different surface qualities to different parts of the block. The bottom surface is formed with a rough texture to maximize frictional engagement with the ground, while the top and side surfaces maintain smooth finishes for aesthetic purposes. This local differentiation of surface quality resolves the contradiction between ease of manufacture and ground engagement effectiveness.
4Ease of operation
If large machines are used for installation, then mattresses can be deployed, but the machines are cumbersome and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the mattress into smaller, manageable blocks connected by flexible tensiles. This segmentation allows the mattress to be handled in smaller sections that can be installed with simpler, less cumbersome equipment, reducing the size and complexity of installation machinery while maintaining the overall functionality of the erosion control system.
5Shape
If blocks are cast with smooth surfaces, then appearance is improved, but frictional engagement with ground is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different surface qualities to different parts of the block. The bottom surface is formed with a rough texture to maximize frictional engagement with the ground, while the top and side surfaces maintain smooth finishes for aesthetic purposes. This local differentiation of surface quality resolves the contradiction between ease of manufacture and ground engagement effectiveness.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach reduces labor and manufacturing time, enables efficient transportation and installation of the erosion control mattress, and provides effective ground coverage with improved frictional engagement to prevent sliding, while maintaining a smooth appearance on the sides and top.
Implementation Method 1
a rough bottom surface for frictionally engaging a ground surface for erosion control
Data Source
AI summary
An articulating mattress of blocks interconnected with tensiles seated therein, said blocks having opposing longitudinal and transverse sides and a top surface each of a smooth surface by contact with a mold surface during casting and a bottom surface having a rough surface by screeding the flowable casting material from an open side of a mold formwork. The mattress inverted with a rolling apparatus for installation with the rough surface in frictional contact on a ground surface for erosion control, said mattress rolling apparatus having base, front wheels, and steerable rear wheels, with a rolling mechanism for rolling the articulating mattress. An apparatus and a method of casting an articulable mattress with a rough bottom surface for erosion control are disclosed.