Hollow Block Mesh Foundation for Weak Ground Reinforcement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional foundation methods for structures on weak ground require either deep foundations with high costs or complex top-base foundations, which are costly and labor-intensive.

Innovation Solution

A mesh foundation construction method using hollow blocks, where the ground is reinforced by arranging hollow blocks in a mesh form, filling the hollow parts with gravel or sandy soil, and casting a concrete foundation to increase supporting force without the need for deep foundations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If deep foundations (piles, piers) are used to reinforce weak ground, then the supporting force is sufficient to hold upper structures, but construction costs increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesupporting forceVSAvoidconstruction cost
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The ground reinforcement is divided into multiple discrete hollow blocks arranged in a mesh pattern, rather than using continuous deep foundations. Each hollow block acts as an independent reinforcement element, collectively providing the necessary supporting force while reducing material and construction costs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of uniformly reinforcing the entire ground with deep foundations, the invention applies reinforcement locally at specific points where hollow blocks are positioned. The hollow blocks concentrate reinforcement where needed, providing sufficient supporting force while minimizing overall construction costs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Ease of manufacture

If top-base foundation with concrete blocks and filler gravel is used, then the ground is reinforced without deep foundations, but the construction process becomes complicated and costly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveavoidance of deep foundationsVSAvoidconstruction process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention merges the reinforcement function and the structural element into a single hollow block component. The hollow blocks inherently provide ground reinforcement while their hollow structure allows for filler material placement, combining multiple functions into one element and simplifying the construction process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The hollow blocks serve multiple functions: they act as structural reinforcement elements, provide cavities for filler material to enhance ground stabilization, and form a mesh pattern for distributed load bearing. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies construction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Strength

If top-shaped concrete piles are installed with connector rebars and welded rings, then the ground is reinforced, but the construction process involves critical and complex steps

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveground reinforcementVSAvoidconstruction simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The hollow blocks are designed as simple, pre-fabricated elements that can be easily manufactured and installed without requiring complex on-site assembly operations like welding. The blocks are placed and filled in a straightforward sequence, making the construction process more accessible and simpler to execute.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

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 method effectively reinforces weak ground to support structures without deep foundations, reducing subsidence and construction costs while simplifying the process.

Implementation Method 1

filling the hollow parts with a filler, which includes one or more of gravel and sandy soil

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGravitation: Gravitation

Data Source

PatentUS9359740B2Mesh foundation construction method using hollow blocks
Publication Date: 2016.06.07 ACEALL
  • US9359740B2 patent drawing
  • US9359740B2 patent drawing
  • US9359740B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A mesh foundation construction method using hollow blocks is disclosed. The method may include: leveling an upper part of a ground selected for reinforcing; arranging a multiple number of hollow blocks adjacent to one another in a mesh form such that one side touches the upper part of the ground, where a hollow block includes an enclosed sidewall that defines a hollow part, which penetrates from said one side to the other side; and filling the hollow parts with a filler, which includes one or more of gravel and sandy soil. With this method, a ground that does not provide a supporting force sufficient to hold an upper structure can be reinforced to support an upper structure without forming a deep foundation, such as piles, etc.