Ground Anchor Post With Helical Blade For Lateral Stability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for installing posts in the ground, such as helical screw augers and ground screw anchors, often fail to provide adequate lateral support, especially in unconsolidated soils or when the post is subjected to high strain, leading to instability.

Innovation Solution

A ground anchor assembly comprising a ground anchor post with a helical blade portion and a hollow main post that engages the anchor post, transferring lateral forces into the soil through a coupling mechanism, including a locking nut and self-leveling washers, to stabilize the post.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If traditional helical screw auger or ground screw anchor methods are used, then installation simplicity is maintained, but lateral support and stability are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelateral supportVSAvoidinstallation system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The ground anchor assembly is divided into distinct functional segments: the ground anchor post with helical blade for soil engagement, the hollow main post for structural support, the ground anchor support device for lateral force distribution, and the coupling member for secure connection. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together to provide superior lateral support compared to traditional single-component systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If ground screw anchor is installed below ground level, then post stability is improved, but installation complexity and time increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepost stabilityVSAvoidinstallation time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The ground anchor post is pre-assembled with the coupling member attached to its upper end before installation. The hollow main post is also prepared in advance with its internal threaded section ready for engagement. This preliminary preparation of components allows for rapid assembly at the installation site, reducing overall installation time while ensuring proper alignment and connection for maximum stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Ease of operation

If hollow main post is made hollow for reduced weight, then ease of installation is improved, but structural strength may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of installationVSAvoidstructural strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The hollow main post is constructed from high-strength materials that provide adequate structural strength despite the hollow configuration. The combination of the hollow post with the ground anchor support device and coupling member creates a composite structural system where the overall strength exceeds that of solid alternative designs, while maintaining the weight and installation advantages of the hollow configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

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 solution provides exceptional resistance to lateral forces and facilitates quick, efficient installation of posts, reducing costs and improving stability compared to traditional methods.

Implementation Method 1

a coupling member to couple the hollow main post to the ground anchor post

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThreaded engagement: Screw

Implementation Method 2

any lateral forces applied to the hollow main post is transferred out through to the ground anchor support device

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 3

the lower end having a helical blade portion, a rotating drive engaging end located on the upper end

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHelical screw anchoring: Archimedes Screw

Data Source

PatentEP3329051B1Supporting post improvements
Publication Date: 2020.07.08 FERAL
  • EP3329051B1 patent drawingFigure 1~3
  • EP3329051B1 patent drawingFigure 4~7
  • EP3329051B1 patent drawingFigure 8~10

AI summary

A ground anchor assembly for quick and effecient installation into the ground, the assembly having a ground anchor post with a shaft with an upper end and lower end, the upper end having a threaded shaft section and the lower end having a helical blade portion, a rotating drive engaging end located on the upper end, a ground anchor post support device and a hollow main post wherein the hollow main post slidably engages the upper end of the ground anchor post when inserted into the ground and any lateral forces applied to the hollow main post is transferred out through to the ground anchor support device.