Modular Retaining Wall Installation Using Fluid-Assisted Mandrel
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing retaining walls in tidal environments face structural integrity issues due to enormous pressures and loads, leading to connection failures and frequent repairs, and they often require excavation and trenching for installation, which is time-consuming and difficult.
Innovation Solution
A modular retaining wall system using linear and angled U-shaped or polygon-shaped channel modules with a self-aligning connection system, employing a double connection mechanism and pressurized fluid installation process to facilitate easier and faster installation, while allowing for angled constructions and self-draining capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional seawall elements are interconnected and pounded into the ground, then the seawall can resist enormous pressures and loads, but the connections between adjacent seawall elements ultimately fail and require replacement and repairs
Solution Approach 1:
The seawall is divided into discrete panel elements that can be individually installed and replaced. Each panel is a self-contained unit with interlocking features, allowing the wall to maintain overall structural integrity while enabling localized replacement of failed components rather than requiring complete seawall replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The panels are pre-assembled with interlocking features and connection mechanisms before installation. The interlocking edges and connection hardware are prepared in advance, allowing for quicker installation and replacement without requiring complex on-site assembly procedures.
2Reliability
If excavation and trenching are performed for installation, then the seawall can be properly anchored, but the installation process becomes time-consuming and difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The panels are prepared with pre-formed connection features and anchoring mechanisms before installation. The interlocking edges and connection hardware are assembled in advance, eliminating the need for time-consuming on-site fabrication or complex anchoring procedures during installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate connection elements and mounting structures that simplify the installation process. These intermediaries facilitate easier attachment to the ground and to adjacent panels, reducing the need for extensive excavation and trenching while maintaining anchoring stability.
3Reliability
If concrete or mortar is used to fill spaces between panels, then a water-tight joint is achieved, but the complexity and time required for installation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the need for concrete or mortar filling by incorporating integrated sealing features directly into the panel design. The sealing function is extracted from the installation process and built into the panel structure itself through gaskets, seals, or interlocking geometries that create water-tight joints without requiring additional materials or steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The panels are designed with self-sealing capabilities through their interlocking features. The connection mechanisms automatically create water-tight joints when panels are assembled, eliminating the need for manual sealing operations and reducing installation complexity while maintaining reliable water-tightness.
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
The modular system enhances structural integrity, reduces installation time and energy, minimizes rework, and allows for self-draining functionality, effectively addressing the challenges of land erosion and tidal noise reduction.
Implementation Method 1
ejecting pressurized fluid through the egress opening for the bottom portion of the fluid conduit while vibrating the mandrel to allow penetration of the U-shaped channel and mandrel into the location
Implementation Method 2
vibrating the mandrel to allow penetration of the U-shaped channel and mandrel into the location
Data Source
AI summary
A process for installing a modular retaining wall is illustrated and described having open or closed polygonal modules with channels disposed therein. The wall is set at least partially below a surface, the surface either being land-based or aqueous-based, and interfaces therebetween, e.g., shoreline. The modules of the wall are fastened to each other by respective fastening mating fasteners. The retaining wall is installed by a process employing a fluid-assisted internal mandrel.