Rockfall Net Anchor Plate Layout for Safer Slope Retrofitting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing slope stabilization systems are inflexible, difficult to retrofit, and pose high assembly risks, necessitating a more adaptable and safer method for rockfall prevention.

Innovation Solution

A method involving the use of connecting elements between anchors and anchor plates, secured with central fastening holes and radially arranged fastening holes, to stabilize slopes with protective nets or gabion grids, utilizing image recognition for identifying potential rock masses and strategically placing anchors.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional slope stabilization systems are used, then basic rock protection is provided, but flexibility and ease of retrofitting are poor

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility and ease of retrofittingVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The stabilization system is divided into modular components: individual anchors, separate anchor plates, and discrete connecting elements. This segmentation allows flexible assembly and retrofitting by enabling selective installation and replacement of individual components without requiring complete system replacement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The anchor plate serves multiple functions: it provides a mounting surface for connecting elements, distributes loads across the anchor structure, and enables various configuration options for different rock protection scenarios. This multi-functionality increases system adaptability while maintaining relatively simple individual components.

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

2Reliability

If complex installation procedures are used, then reliable rock protection is achieved, but installation risks and difficulties increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverock protection reliabilityVSAvoidinstallation ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Anchor plates are pre-assembled with connecting elements and fastening mechanisms before field installation. This preliminary preparation ensures proper component alignment and connection integrity, reducing installation errors and risks while maintaining reliable rock protection through pre-verified assembly procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The anchor plate acts as an intermediary component between the anchor and the connecting elements. It simplifies the connection process by providing standardized attachment points and interfaces, making installation more straightforward while ensuring reliable force transmission and rock protection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If custom components are manufactured for each project, then specific protection requirements are met, but production costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecustomization capabilityVSAvoidproduction cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The anchor plate is designed as a universal component that can be used across different rock protection projects with varying requirements. By providing multiple fastening holes and standardized interfaces, a single component design accommodates various configurations and customization needs without requiring custom manufacturing for each project, thereby reducing production costs.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The system achieves customization through parameter variations rather than complete redesign. The anchor plate's fastening hole positions, connecting element lengths, and anchor specifications can be adjusted to meet specific protection requirements while maintaining the same basic component architecture, enabling cost-effective production through standardized manufacturing processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentEP4589075B1Method for preventing falling of stone or the like and network arrangement therefor
Publication Date: 2026.05.20 BREITBACH GRUNDBAU GMBH
  • EP4589075B1 patent drawingFigure 1.1~1.2
  • EP4589075B1 patent drawingFigure 2.1~2.2
  • EP4589075B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a method for preventing rockfall. In a method according to the invention, at least potentially falling or sliding rock masses are identified, in particular by means of image recognition software. Furthermore, in a further method step, anchors (3) to be replaced and/or set are selected and set. Furthermore, securing areas with the identified rock masses to be secured are spanned with at least the net (4). For each anchor (3), an anchor plate (10) is attached to the respective anchor (3). Furthermore, at least one connecting element (2) is connected to two associated anchor plates (10). The invention further relates to a net arrangement (1) for preparing and/or additionally securing a protective measure, for example using a net (4) that covers a slope or a section of a slope to prevent rockfall, secure slopes and rocks, or the like.In a network arrangement according to the invention, each anchor (3) is rigidly connected to a single anchor plate (10).