Segmented Ground Anchor with Divergent Facets for Asphalt
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ground anchors are ineffective in asphalt, lacking substantial vertical pullout resistance and off-angle strength, and they damage the surface, require frequent removal, and allow water infiltration, making them unsuitable for repeated use and flush mounting.
Innovation Solution
A ground anchor system with a primary anchor body and downwardly extending facets that spread upon installation, combined with a tension sleeve for pretensioning, providing enhanced friction and stability, and a design that allows for flush mounting and sealing to prevent water infiltration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If straight male anchors are used in asphalt, then off-angle strength is sustained, but vertical pullout resistance is ineffective and surrounding asphalt surfaces are damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The anchor is segmented into multiple facets (typically three) that are initially collinear during installation but diverge outward upon installation. This segmentation allows the anchor to distribute loads across multiple contact points with the ground, providing both vertical pullout resistance and off-angle strength while minimizing surface damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The anchor transitions from a one-dimensional straight configuration during installation to a three-dimensional divergent configuration after installation. The facets spread outward in radial directions, creating multiple planes of friction and mechanical interlocking with the ground, thereby achieving superior holding power in both vertical and off-angle directions.
2Ease of operation
If current anchors are removed after each use, then flush mounting is achieved, but repeated use is not allowed and holes are created weakening the asphalt
Solution Approach 1:
The anchor system includes a removable cap that seals around the anchor body, creating a waterproof seal without requiring removal of the anchor itself. The cap can be removed and reinstalled for repeated use, while the anchor remains permanently embedded in the asphalt, maintaining both flush mounting and repeated use capability.
3Ease of manufacture
If current anchors are used in asphalt, then installation is simple, but water and other elements infiltrate the previously sealed surface
Solution Approach 1:
A removable cap serves as an intermediary sealing element between the anchor and the environment. The cap features a seal (such as an O-ring) that creates a waterproof barrier around the anchor body, preventing water and other elements from infiltrating the asphalt surface while allowing the anchor to remain permanently installed.
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 anchor system achieves improved vertical and off-angle strength, allows for repeated use without surface damage, and maintains the asphalt seal, ensuring stability and preventing water ingress.
Implementation Method 1
the outward force generated by the interaction of the tip end with the support surface
Data Source
AI summary
A ground anchor system shaped and dimensioned for secure attachment within a support surface. The ground anchor system includes a primary anchor body extending along a longitudinal axis and including a first end and a second end. A coupling member is associated with the first end of the anchor body. A fastening assembling extends from the second end of the anchor body, the fastening assembly being composed of a plurality of downwardly extending facets, wherein each facet includes a first end and a second end. The first end of each facet is secured to the second end of the anchor body and the second end extends away from the anchor body. The second end of each facet includes a tip end having a facing surface cut at an obliquely oriented angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the anchor body such that upon installation into the support surface the second end of each of the plurality of facets is forced outwardly from the longitudinal axis as a result of the outward force generated by the interaction of the tip end with the support surface.