Hollow Post Ground Anchor with Nested Helical Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for installing posts in the ground, such as using ground anchors, often lack sufficient lateral stability, especially for applications like fencing where high stability is required.
Innovation Solution
The method involves embedding a post or stub in the ground and using ground anchors that extend below the surface to capture the lower end of the post or stub, providing additional stability by screwing into the earth and using a rotational driver to secure the post in place.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional ground anchors are used to support posts, then the posts can be installed in the ground, but the lateral stability is insufficient for high-stability applications like fencing
Solution Approach 1:
The ground anchor is inserted through a hollow post, with the anchor nesting within the post structure during installation. The anchor passes through the post's central cavity and is screwed into the ground, creating a nested configuration where the anchor is contained within the post assembly during installation, then extends below ground to provide stabilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is divided into distinct functional segments: the hollow post structure, the ground anchor with helical blades, and the interaction zone where the anchor engages both the post and ground. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the post provides above-ground structure, while the anchor provides below-ground anchoring.
2Reliability
If the ground anchor is driven deep into the ground to improve stability, then lateral stability increases, but the installation time and effort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The hollow post is prepared in advance with a central cavity and opening at the lower end, allowing the ground anchor to be directly inserted without requiring separate excavation or complex alignment procedures. The post itself serves as the installation guide and container for the anchor.
Solution Approach 2:
The ground anchor's helical blades automatically engage with the ground as the anchor is rotated into place, creating its own anchoring mechanism through the screwing action. The anchor's design allows it to self-secure into the ground without requiring additional fastening steps or complex installation equipment beyond a simple rotating driver.
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 significantly enhances the lateral stability of posts, making it suitable for applications like fencing by ensuring the post is firmly anchored, improving installation efficiency and stability retention.
Implementation Method 1
a helical shape at an outer end and an interlocking shape at the opposite end which is then caused to be rotated about its longitudinal axis and effect a screwing of the ground anchor into the ground
Implementation Method 2
have an impinging shape with a portion of the stub or lower portion of the post so as to hold this post or stub then more positively in position
Data Source
AI summary
A method of securing an elongate member in the ground which includes the steps of embedding the member within a matching size and shaped hole in the ground then ensnaring the member with a ground anchor that passes substantially through the member intersecting the member. The invention also applies to a member with a ground anchor positioned therein and also having a lightening nut.