Continuous Loop Fasteners for Reinforced Ground Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for connecting flexible synthetic reinforcement strips to earth structures, particularly with concrete facings, face challenges such as constrained strip direction and visibility issues with mesh facings, leading to installation difficulties and vulnerability to damage.
Innovation Solution
A connection system using continuous closed-loop fasteners, which include hooking portions for the facing and extending portions that form loops to secure the reinforcement strips, allowing for flexible installation configurations and reduced exposure, along with a guide device for compressive stress management, and optionally using rigid or flexible fasteners based on the facing material.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional connection methods with intermediate connecting parts are used, then the connection between reinforcement strips and concrete facing can be achieved, but the direction of reinforcement strips is constrained and installation problems occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the intermediate connecting parts (such as concrete anchors or mechanical connectors) from the connection system. The reinforcement strip directly contacts the facing through friction and geometric interlocking, eliminating the need for intermediate elements that constrain strip direction. This extraction of intermediate components enables greater flexibility in strip placement while maintaining connection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new intermediary mechanism in the form of a groove or channel in the facing that guides and receives the reinforcement strip. This groove acts as a mediator that provides directional guidance without requiring intermediate connecting parts, allowing the strip to be installed in various configurations while maintaining reliable connection through friction and geometric constraint.
2Strength
If mesh type facing is used with flexible synthetic strips, then reinforcement can be provided, but the strips are directly visible and exposed to damage
Solution Approach 1:
The reinforcement strip is nested within a groove or channel in the facing structure. The strip is placed inside the groove and secured through friction and geometric interlocking, so that it is not visible from the exterior while still providing reinforcement. This nesting approach hides the strip within the facing geometry, protecting it from accidental or intentional damage while maintaining its structural function.
3Strength
If rigid fasteners are used to connect reinforcement strips to facing, then firm connection is achieved, but the fasteners are subject to shear stresses and deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a flexible groove or channel structure in the facing that conforms to the reinforcement strip geometry. This flexible geometric constraint provides firm connection through friction and shape matching, eliminating the need for rigid fasteners that would be subject to shear stresses. The flexible groove design allows the connection to accommodate minor deformations while maintaining strength.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a building including a facing, a backfill at the back of the facing, synthetic reinforcement strips distributed in the backfill, and a connection system between the reinforcement strips and the backfill. The connection system includes fasteners having the shape of a continuous closed loop, each including two first portions for hooking to the facing and, alternating with the first portions along the closed loop shape, two second portions extending towards the back of the facing where they are folded back to form two loops inside of which at least one reinforcement strip extends.