Nested Mixing and Jet Grouting Tool for Deep Soil Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for deep soil stabilization are limited in depth and unsuitable for treating soils with high water content or clay, as they require large equipment and cannot effectively mix these materials.
Innovation Solution
A process involving a mixing tool and a jet grouting tool, where the mixing tool is sunk to a first depth, then the jet grouting tool is extended to a second depth while rotating or pivoting, introducing a suspension to erode and mix the soil, allowing for the creation of columnar or semi-columnar soil improvement bodies that can support deeper loads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If conventional deep soil stabilization methods are used, then soil mixing is achieved, but the working depth is limited to 15-20m and large equipment is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies nesting by placing the jet grouting tool (with nozzles for suspension injection) inside the mixing tool's central cavity. The jet tool can be extended to greater depths through the mixing tool, allowing the system to reach deeper soil layers without requiring proportionally larger external equipment. The inner jet tool operates independently within the outer mixing tool structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the soil stabilization function into two independent tools: a mixing tool for mechanical soil mixing and binder introduction, and a jet grouting tool for high-pressure suspension injection and soil erosion. This segmentation allows each tool to be optimized for its specific function and enables the jet tool to extend to greater depths through the mixing tool's central space.
2Adaptability or versatility
If mechanical mixing tools are used in soils with high water content or clay, then mixing is attempted, but the tools cannot effectively mix these materials
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two soil treatment methods into one integrated system: mechanical mixing (deep soil stabilization) and jet grouting (high-pressure suspension erosion and mixing). This combination allows the system to handle difficult soils like clay and high-water-content soils by using the jet grouting tool's high-pressure suspension to erode and mix soils that are resistant to mechanical mixing alone.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses hydraulic principles by introducing a suspension (typically cement-based) under high pressure through nozzles on the jet grouting tool. This high-pressure jet erodes the soil particles and mixes them with the binder, effectively treating soils with high water content or clay that are difficult to mix mechanically. The hydraulic jet action overcomes the resistance of cohesive soils.
3Length of stationary object
If jet grouting is used to treat deeper soils, then deeper stabilization is achieved, but the process time increases due to sequential operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous operation by allowing the jet grouting tool to be extended to the full treatment depth while the mixing tool continues its mixing operation. The suspension injection and soil erosion occur continuously as the tool is advanced, and the mixing action continues simultaneously. This eliminates idle time between sequential operations and maintains continuous productive action throughout the process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary action by pre-positioning the jet grouting tool within the mixing tool before reaching the treatment depth. The suspension injection system is prepared and positioned in advance, allowing immediate high-pressure injection when the tool reaches the target depth, rather than requiring assembly or setup at depth. The dual-tool configuration is established beforehand to enable simultaneous operations.
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
Enables deep soil stabilization in unfavorable soils and at greater depths, producing homogeneous, strengthened soil bodies that can transmit forces effectively, even in immiscible soils, with the option to use the same binder for both methods for process efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
introducing a suspension to erode and mix the soil
Implementation Method 2
the soil in this second soil region erodes and a suspension in this second soil region is introduced
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4
AI summary
The method involves drilling a mixing tool (8) under rotary motion up to a depth (T1), where floor is mixed in a floor area (26). A jet tool (9) is drilled up to another depth (T2) below the mixed floor area. The jet tool is pulled under rotary- or pivot movement with activated jet nozzles. The floor is eroded in another floor area (27), which lies below the former floor area. A suspension is attached in the latter floor area. The mixing tool and the jet tool are pulled from the floor. An independent claim is included for a device for manufacturing floor elements.