AU2017381398B2

AU2017381398B2 - Substrate compression means

Info

Publication number: AU2017381398B2
Application number: AU2017381398A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Bryan PEACH
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2016-12-23
Filing date: 2017-12-19
Publication date: 2023-12-07
Anticipated expiration: 2037-12-19
Also published as: WO2018112519A1; AU2017381398A1

Abstract

The present invention relates to means for providing anchorage or support in a substrate such as soil or snow. The invention finds use in the building construction arts, as well as in other anchorage and support applications. Provided is a substrate compression means configured to be buried in a hole formed in a substrate, the substrate compression means configured to, when buried, compress a substrate against the hole wall when a force is applied to the substrate compression means. The compression means may have (i) a central portion having an axis, and (ii) two or more faces extending from the central portion, and furthermore may be configured such that, when buried, upon application of a force along the axis of the central portion the faces divert the applied force perpendicularly and toward the hole wall. Each of the two or more faces may have a paired face such that, when buried, one of the paired faces is directed generally upwardly and the other of the paired faces is directed generally downwardly such that upon application of an upward force along the axis of the central portion the upwardly directed face diverts the upward force perpendicularly and toward the hole wall, and upon application of a downward force along the axis of the central portion the downwardly directed face diverts the downward force perpendicularly and toward the hole wall.

Description

SUBSTRATE COMPRESSION MEANS

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to means for providing anchorage or support in a substrate such as soil or snow. The present invention finds use in the building construction arts, as well as in other anchorage and support applications.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

There are many situations where it is necessary or desirable to engage a substrate. Typically, the need arises to anchor an item into the ground, the snow, or other material. For example, in building construction and fence construction a post may be anchored into the ground, the post acting to support a component such as a rail or a bearer. In other applications a post may be anchored into the ground for the purpose of erecting signage or to suspend shade cloth.

Ground engagement may also be required to stabilise a platform on the ground, and therefore useful as a foundation of sorts. In another application, the engagement means may be used to anchor a cable or a rope into the ground. Such anchors are used to stabilize radio transmission towers, or to secure light aircraft to the ground of an airfield.

A problem with prior art anchor/support means is that concrete is often required to secure the means into the substrate. For example in securing a post into the ground, a hole is dug and one end of the post placed in the hole. Concrete is then disposed about the post and allowed to cure, this adding cost and time to the installation. A post installed in this way relies to an extent on the weight of the concrete to provide pull-out resistance, there typically being little if any soil above the upper concrete surface. Furthermore, concrete can act to degrade posts made of certain materials. The addition of concrete also prevents the post being easily removed and reused in another location, given the need to remove the concrete adhered to the post. In some circumstances, concrete is not used and the post is directly buried in the ground. While this avoids the problems relating to concreting, it is often necessary for the hole to relatively deep. As a general guide, about one-third of the post's length should be buried. Even where deeply buried a post is still liable to pull-out, especially in the considerable period taken for the soil to settle about the post. A further problem is that is that torsional forces may be occasioned on a post (however buried) leading to unwanted rotation of a post. Lateral forces may also act on a post (however buried) to cause unwanted tilting of the post.

A further problem arises in the need to install a post strictly vertically. Prior art post supports/anchors often include a plate which is secured to the ground by jack-hammering piles through the plate and into the ground. A post is then typically attached to the plate. As will be understood for the post to be strictly vertical the plate must be installed strictly horizontally. Strictly horizontal installation is difficult, with even a slight inclination of the plate leading to significant unwanted displacement of the upper terminus of the post from ideal.

Many of the problems referred to above apply equally where no post is involved and the engagement means is an anchor.

It is an aspect of the present invention to overcome or alleviate the prior art by providing improved anchor/support means. The improvement may be in any one of more of cost of fabrication, cost of installation, ease of installation, time taken for installation, the need for other components to effect installation, pull-out resistance, push-down resistance, resistance to torsional forces, resistance to lateral forces, service life, and ability to recycle. In demountable buildings the ground anchors can be removed and reused when the building is relocated. In some instances, no advantage is provided with the present invention being a useful alternative to prior art anchor/support means. The discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles and the like is included in this specification solely for the purpose of providing a context for the present invention. It is not suggested or represented that any or all of these matters formed part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the present invention as it existed before the priority date of each claim of this application.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one aspect, but not necessarily the broadest aspect, the present invention provides substrate compression means configured to be buried in a hole formed in a substrate, the substrate compression means configured to, in use, compress a substrate against the hole wall when a force is applied to the substrate compression means.

In one embodiment of the first aspect, the substrate compression means comes (i) a central portion having an axis, and (ii) two or more faces extending from the central portion

In one embodiment of the first aspect, the substrate compression means of claim 2 configured such that, when buried, upon application of a force along the axis of the central portion the faces divert the applied force perpendicularly and toward the hole wall.

In one embodiment of the first aspect, each of the two or more faces has a paired face such that, when buried, one of the paired faces is directed generally upwardly and the other of the paired faces is directed generally downwardly such that upon application of an upward force along the axis of the central portion the upwardly directed face diverts the upward force perpendicularly and toward the hole wall, and upon application of a downward force along the axis of the central portion the downwardly directed diverts the upward force perpendicularly and toward the hole wall.

In one embodiment of the first aspect, two of the two or more faces form a substantially opposed pair of faces.

In one embodiment of the first aspect, each of the pair of substantially opposed faces is disposed at a substantially opposite angle to each other. In one embodiment of the first aspect, the two or more faces are disposed at substantially equal intervals about the perimeter of the central region.

In one embodiment of the first aspect, the two or more faces are each disposed at alternating angles to each other.

In one embodiment of the first aspect, the angle made by at least one face of the two or more faces with the axis is greater than or equal to about 1 degree, or 5 degrees, or 10 degrees, or 15 degrees, or 20 degrees, or 25 degrees, or 30 degrees, or 35 degrees or 40 degrees. In one embodiment of the first aspect, the angle made by at least one face of the two or more faces with the axis is less than or equal to about 45 degrees, or 40 degrees, or 35 degrees, or 30 degrees, or 25 degrees, or 20 degrees, or 15 degrees, or 10 degrees, or 5 degrees or 1 degree. In one embodiment of the first aspect, the angle made by at least one face of the two or more faces with the axis angle is between about 5 degrees and about 20 degrees.

In one embodiment of the first aspect, the angle made by at least one face of the two or more faces with the axis is between about 5 degrees and about 10 degrees.

In one embodiment of the first aspect, the substrate compression means comprises two pairs of substantially opposed faces.

In one embodiment of the first aspect, all faces are disposed at substantially the same angle to the axis, with the proviso that the same angle may be a positive angle and a negative of the same magnitude when viewed from the same point.

In one embodiment of the first aspect, at least one pair of substantially opposed faces are disposed at substantially the same level relative to the central portion.

In one embodiment of the first aspect, all faces are disposed at substantially the same level relative to the central position.

In one embodiment of the first aspect, the faces are substantially planar.

In one embodiment of the first aspect, the faces are substantially elongate.

In one embodiment of the first aspect, the faces have a perimeter describing a regular geometric shape.

In one embodiment of the first aspect, the regular geometric shape is a square or a rectangle. In one embodiment of the first aspect, each face is configured as a discrete structure. In one embodiment of the first aspect, each discrete structure is a plate or a fin.

In one embodiment of the first aspect, most of an entire edge, or an entire edge of each of the faces extends from the central portion.

In one embodiment of the first aspect, the central portion is substantially elongate and the axis is the long axis of the central portion.

In one embodiment of the first aspect, the central portion is a post having a regular cross- sectional geometry.

In one embodiment of the first aspect, the post has a square or circular geometry.

In one embodiment of the first aspect, the substrate compression means comprises faces at two levels with reference to the substantially elongate central portion.

In one embodiment of the first aspect, the faces of the first level are disposed at substantially the same angle as the faces of the second level. In one embodiment of the first aspect, the faces of the first level are in register with faces of the second level.

In one embodiment of the first aspect, two faces that are in register are disposed at the same angle, albeit in opposite directions.

In one embodiment of the first aspect, the total area of the faces of the first level is higher than the total area of the faces of the second level.

In one embodiment of the first aspect, a space exists between the faces of the first level and the faces of the second level.

In one embodiment of the first aspect, the substrate compression means comprises an attachment means configured to allow attachment of an item in need of anchorage or support, the attachment portion extending from or incorporated into the central portion. In one embodiment of the first aspect, the item in need of anchorage or support is a post, a wire, a cable, a rope, a string, a rigid brace member, a platform (or part thereof), or a footing. In one embodiment of the first aspect, the substrate compression means comprises an exposed portion configured to extend above the substrate when the substrate compression means is buried.

In one embodiment of the first aspect, the exposed portion is substantially continuous with the central portion.

In one embodiment of the first aspect, the exposed portion is a member useful in supporting any one or more of: a building structure (or part thereof), a fence structure (or part thereof), a sign structure (or part thereof), a shade cloth (or part thereof),

In one embodiment of the first aspect, the exposed portion is substantially elongate and is coaxial with the central portion

In one embodiment of the first aspect, the exposed portion is configured to extend at least about 1 meter, 2 meters, 3 meters, 4 meters, 5 meters, 6 meters, 7 meters, 8 meters, 9 meters or 10 meters.

In a second aspect, the present invention provides a building structure or a fence structure or a sign structure or a shade cloth erection comprising the substrate compression means of any embodiment of the first aspect of the invention.

In a third aspect, there is provided a method of providing an anchorage for a wire, a cable, a rope, a string, a rigid brace member, a platform (or part thereof), or a footing, the method comprising the step of:

providing the substrate compression means of any embodiment of the first aspect of the invention,

forming a hole in a substrate of sufficient dimension to bury at least the faces of the substrate compression means,

disposing the substrate compression means in the hole, and depositing a material about the substrate compression means so as to secure the substrate compression means into the substrate.

In a fourth aspect, the present invention provides a method of providing a stable attachment or support for a building structure or a fence structure or a sign structure or a shade cloth erection, the method comprising the steps of:

disposing the substrate compression means in the hole, and

depositing a material about the substrate compression means so as to secure the substrate compression means into the substrate. In one embodiment of the second aspect, or the third aspect, or the fourth aspect, the material deposited around the substrate compression means is the same material, or substantially the same type of material removed from the substrate to form the hole.

In one embodiment of the second aspect, or the third aspect or the fourth aspect, the method comprises the step of compacting the material deposited around the substrate compression means in a sequential manner as the hole is filled.

In one embodiment of the second aspect, or the third aspect or the fourth aspect, the compaction results in the substrate returning to substantially its stability when undisturbed.

In one embodiment of the second aspect, or the third aspect or the fourth aspect, all or the majority of material deposited about the substrate compression means is the material that was removed to form the hole. In one embodiment of the second aspect, or the third aspect or the fourth aspect, the method is devoid of the use of concrete, gravel, cement or water as the material deposited about the substrate compression means. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 shows diagrammatic ally an embodiment of the present invention in the form of a post.

FIG. 2 shows diagrammatic ally the post of FIG. 1 disposed in a hole dug into the ground, and before the step of filling the hole with substrate.

FIG. 3 shows diagrammatic ally a post embodiment of the present invention disposed in a hole, the hole filled with substrate, to demonstrate the lateral transfer of a vertical force (upward or downward) via the substrate to the wall of the hole. The horizontal arrows show the direction of force against the hole wall.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" or similar wording means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, but may. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments.

Similarly it should be appreciated that the description of exemplary embodiments of the invention, various features of the invention are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure and aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various inventive aspects. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed invention requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the claims following the Detailed Description are hereby expressly incorporated into this Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of this invention.

Furthermore, while some embodiments described herein include some but not other features included in other embodiments, combinations of features of different embodiments are meant to be within the scope of the invention, and from different embodiments, as would be understood by those in the art.

In the claims below and the description herein, any one of the terms "comprising", "comprised of or "which comprises" is an open term that means including at least the elements/features that follow, but not excluding others. Thus, the term comprising, when used in the claims, should not be interpreted as being limitative to the means or elements or steps listed thereafter. For example, the scope of the expression a method comprising step A and step B should not be limited to methods consisting only of methods A and B. Any one of the terms "including" or "which includes" or "that includes" as used herein is also an open term that also means including at least the elements/features that follow the term, but not excluding others. Thus, "including" is synonymous with and means "comprising".

The invention has been described with reference to certain advantages. It is not suggested or represented that each embodiment of the invention have all of the advantages described. Any particular embodiment may have only a single advantage. In some embodiments, the invention may provide no advantage and merely provide a useful alternative to the prior art.

In a first aspect the present invention provides substrate compression means configured to be buried in a hole formed in a substrate, the substrate compression means configured to, in use, compress a substrate against the hole wall when a force is applied to the substrate compression means. Applicant has discovered that the wall of a hole provides a useful face against which soil (for example) may be compressed. Without wishing to be limited in theory in any way, it is thought that the compressed soil acts in a manner similar to undisturbed soil in so far as an anchor, a support (or similar contrivance) in the soil is firmly retained in the hole against any force. The force may be an upward pulling force, or a downward pushing force, or a lateral force or a torsional force.

In one embodiment, Applicant proposes that an object is more securely engaged with a substrate where the object comprises opposing faces which are angled with reference to the vertical. For example, where it is desired to more securely retain a post in the ground, the buried region of the post is provided with substantially opposed faces disposed at an angle to the vertical. Without wishing to be limited by theory in way, it is proposed that the angled faces act to direct any force acting in the vertical (i.e. having a vector parallel to the post) against the walls of the hole in which the post is buried. Thus, at least a portion of a vertically directed force acting to the post out of the hole is directed laterally toward the hole wall, the hole wall (being composed of compacted earth or other substantially solid material) being capable of bearing a compressive force, thereby conferring improved pull-out and push-down resistance on the post.

Advantageously, this improved retention in the substrate (which may manifest as pull-out resistance or push-down resistance) may (at least in some circumstances) obviate the need for concreting the buried part of a post, or at least require the use of less concrete. In addition or alternatively, the post hole may not need to be buried as deep as would otherwise be required to confer similar pull-out resistance. In addition or alternatively, a greater resistance to torsional and/or lateral forces on the post may be conferred, such that the requirement for a brace or other stabilising means is lessened or obviated. A further advantage is found in that a very high level of pull out resistance is conferred virtually immediately after burial of the substrate compression means. Prior art posts do not achieve significant pull-out resistance for days, weeks or even months after installation in the ground. This delay in achieving maximum pull-out resistance is noted even where the soil is compacted about the post during installation. Engagement means of the present invention dos not rely on passive settling of the soil over time to achieve maxim or near maximum pull-out resistance. Instead, it is proposed that the direction of pull-out or push-down forces against the hole wall by the faces obviates or lessens the need for passive settling of soil about compression means. In some embodiments, at least 90% or 100% of maximum pull-out or push-down resistance is conferred in less than 1 hour, 12 hours, 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 1 week, 1 month, 2 months, 3 months, 4 months, 5 months or 6 months after installation where soil is compacted about the engagement means during installation. The period of time is typically reliant on the degree to which the substrate is actively compacted by the installer when filling the hole. Where, the substrate is deliberately well packed about the substrate compression means, such resistance may be conferred virtually immediately.

For the avoidance of doubt it is not represented that all embodiments of the invention described, drawn, or included in the ambit of the claims herein will have all advantages described herein. Indeed, some embodiments may have no advantage whatsoever and instead provide only a useful alternative to prior art anchoring and support means. Moreover, some embodiments of the present invention may (at least in one respect) be disadvantageous over a prior art anchoring and support means.

The present substrate compression means may comprise a central portion having an axis. In the example of a post, the central portion is typically the elongate member comprising the majority portion of the post. However, it is not necessary that the central portion be elongate so as to provide a longitudinal axis. For example, the central portion may be a plate configured to be buried substantially horizontally within the substrate, in which case the axis extends perpendicular to the plane of the plate. In another example, the central portion may be cuboid in which case the axis may extend perpendicular through two opposing faces of the cuboid, or through to opposing vertices of the cuboid. In yet a further example, the central region may be spherical in which case the axis may be any line extending through the centre of the sphere. It will be understood that the aforementioned options are not limiting with the skilled person having the benefit of the present specification being amply enabled to conceive and assess the suitability of further forms of the central region using no more than routine experimentation.

In some embodiments, the central region may be a minor overall portion of the substrate compression means. This may be the case where the substrate compression means is configured as a ground anchor, configured to allow for the attachment of a wire or a rope as more fully described infra.

The present substrate compression means may comprise two or more faces. Without wishing to be limited by theory, it is proposed that the function of the faces is to direct a force (including a pull-out force, a push-down force, a torsional force or a lateral force) against a hole wall. Thus, it is proposed that the faces present a sufficiently broad face and are configured to be sufficiently resistant to deformation so as to provide the proposed transfer of force to the hole wall. For example, where a plate is used to present a generally upwardly directed face and a generally downwardly directed face, both faces of the plate work independently depending on the direction of an applied force. In the case of a loadbearing post in a general construction one face of the plate will come into play in download and the other face of the plate will come into play in uplift. Accordingly, the plate can be said to have dual functionality. Which face of the plate that comes into play is dependent on the direction of force. Any faces oriented generally upwardly (when installed) will confer resistance to pull-out forces, and any generally downwardly oriented face will confer resistance to push-down forces. Thus, a generally broad structure used to provide faces of the substrate compression means will provide both (i) a generally upwardly oriented face to confer pull-out resistance and (ii) a generally downwardly oriented face to confer push-down resistance. Both pull-out and pushdown forces will also act to compress substrate laterally against the hole wall, thereby securing the substrate compression means into the substrate.

It is preferred that the faces are generally configured (in terms of shape or construction material) are resistant to binding with the soil. Without wishing to be limited by theory, it is thought that any significant binding may cause an upward or downward movement of substrate (as distinct from the lateral compression of substrate against the hole wall), so as to cause an undesired release the substrate engagement means from the substrate. In accordance with general desire to avoid substrate binding, the faces may be fabricated so as to avoid frictional engagement with the substrate. Thus, the may lack any obvious roughness and may in some embodiments be deliberately smoothed or even polished. Certain coatings may be used so as to avoid substrate binding such as paints, sealers, polymers, plastics, Teflons and the like.

Each of the faces may be discrete in nature, with each face in one embodiment being configured as a discrete fin extending from the central region. In some embodiments, the faces are not discrete and a formed as regions of a continuous structure. For example, the faces may formed by an undulating ribbon-like collar structure encircling the central region. Bends in ribbon- like collar structure provide the two or more angled faces required in the substrate compression means.

The faces extend from the central region, according to the present invention. The faces may be unitarily formed with the central region (by casting or moulding for example) or may be attached thereto (such as by way of a weld, a fastener, an adhesive, or an interference fit). The substrate engagement means can be fabricated at least in part from any material that can be welded, formed, cast or injection moulded. Where attached, the faces may be attached in any way deemed suitable by the skilled person having the benefit of the present specification. Most commonly, where the central region is a metal post, the faces will be welded along their edges to the buried portion of the post. In other embodiments however, the post may be made of wood in which case the faces may each have a spike allowing to the face to be driven into the post like a nail. Alternatively, the faces may be welded to a cup-like metal structure which is applied over the buried terminus of the post and bolted thereto for permanence. In another version, the face may be disposed on a collar which is slipped onto the post and then fixed thereto. Where the substrate compression means is a post, it will be typical to dispose the faces toward the terminus of the buried region of the post. Generally the faces will not extend beyond the terminus so as to allow the terminus to sit flush on the hole floor without interference from the faces. In some embodiments, the substrate compression means is not for the purpose of securing a post in a substrate and may be configured only to provide an anchor point. In such situations, the central region may be no more than a plate or a structure of relatively limited depth. These embodiments may require the faces to extend beyond the central region (either above the central region, or below the central region, or both above and below the central region). Given that the edges of the faces may not be fully attached to or continuous with the central region, the face may be required to have a higher resistance to deformation given the limited support provided by the central region.

Where the central region is simply a plate, it will be appreciated that only a single point of contact is provided between the plate edge and the face edge and so the entire engagement means must be engineered to prevent deformation or detachment of any part. In such an embodiment both plate and face will typically be fabricated from relatively thick steel plate and attached to each other by an appropriately resilient weld. Without wishing to be limited by theory in any way, the invention may be operable by way of a sliding motion along the faces to achieve a shifting of the load from a vertical up or down force to a horizontal force against the wall of the hole.

While clearly open to optimization for any given application, the angles of the surfaces to the axis of the central region may be greater than about 5 degrees, but less than about 20 degrees. At least some angle is required so as directed a pull-out force to the hole wall (thereby resisting that force) however too great an angle may present large effective face to the force leading in turn a very large force on the face causing deformation or detachment of the face. Thus, a balance may be reached between the need to robustly engineer the faces so as to resist such deformation (and therefore increase cost) and having sufficient pull-out resistance for the particular application.

In any event, the faces may be configured according to routine experiments with the understand that the construction and angling of faces is sufficient so as to cause the application of a sufficient lateral compressive force on the hole wall in response to the application of an expected force, the lateral compressive force in turn being sufficient so as to prevent pull-out or push-down or twisting or lateral movement of the substrate compression means.

In one embodiment, at least two of the faces extend from the central region so as to be substantially opposed. It is proposed that the substantial opposition of the faces evenly direct forces to substantially opposed regions of the hole wall thereby better stabilising the entire substrate compression means.

In some cases, the faces are not substantially opposed but nevertheless evenly distributed about the perimeter of the central region. For example, six faces may be provided about a circular post with no two faces being strictly opposed, in which case the pull-out forces exerted on the faces nevertheless substantially balance around the post axis so as to provide overall stability.

To better distribute any force, it is preferred that an even number of faces is provided (such as two, four, six, eight, ten or twelve) comprising one or more pairs of faces, with the faces of a pair being substantially opposed to each other. In less preferred embodiments, an odd number of faces (such as three, five, seven, nine or eleven) may be provided, with the faces being evenly distributed about the periphery of the central region.

Where the faces form substantially opposed pairs, it is preferable that each face is angled at the same or similar degrees to the axis of the central region, although angled in the opposite direction. For example, the first face of an opposed pair may be angled at 10 degrees sloping upwardly from left to right, with the second face angled at 10 degrees sloping downwardly from left to right, where both faces are viewed from the same direction. Thus, an X-shape may be formed by the two faces when viewed from a single point and where the second face is disposed directly posterior to the first face.

Typically the faces are disposed at the same level with reference to the central portion. Where the central portion is a post, the faces may be disposed the same or similar distance from the buried terminus of the post. This arrangement is generally preferred given the proposal that forces would be directed against the hole wall at the same level. This arrangement is not essential however, and a staggered arrangement will nevertheless possess utility. A face of the present engagement means is typically completely planar, however may not be so in which case it will at least comprise a planar component. Where not completely planar, the angle at which the face is disposed relative to the axis of the central region is calculated by reference to the planar component. Curved faces having no planar component are nevertheless considered as potentially operable in the context of the invention. For example the curve may be in one dimension only, and in which case the angle made with the axis of the central region may be defined by reference to a line connecting two ends of the face. Where the face is curved in two dimensions (to form a bowl-like structure), the angle made with the axis of the central region may be defined by reference to a line connecting any two points about the edge of the face.

Preferably, each of the opposing faces are of substantially the same or similar size and shape. Furthermore, each of the opposing faces may have substantially the same or similar resistance to deformation and in which case will typically be fabricated from the substantially the same or similar material.

The dimensions of each face may be determined by reference (theoretically or experimentally) by reference to the required resistance to any pull-out, torsional or lateral force. Where the required resistance is relatively low, then dimensions may be relatively small given the need to transfer a lesser force to the hole wall. Conversely, where the required resistance is relatively high, then dimensions may be relatively large given the need to transfer a greater force to the hole wall. Where the central region is constructed to allow it, the faces may be provided at two levels (and preferably two discrete levels) along the central region. For example, where the central region is a post, the first (lower) level of faces may be comprised of the faces described herein supra disposed toward the buried terminus of the post, with the second (higher) level of faces are disposed away from the buried terminus of the post. Typically, a space exists between the upper edge of the highest face of the first level and the lower edge of the lowest face of the second level.

As will be appreciated, in any event the second level of faces are position not so distal to the buried terminus of the post so as to remain exposed when the post is buried. Thus, when installed, the first and second level of faces are buried. Preferably, the upper level faces are disposed at a depth of no less than 1.5 times the length of the face. For example, where an upper level face has a length of 20 cm the post is buried such that (upon filling) at least 30 cm of soil overlays the face.

It is proposed that this second level of faces functions so as to improve resistance to torsional forces and lateral forces. As will be appreciated, a post extending a distance above the substrate provides for significant leverage of a lateral forces applied about the exposed terminus of the post. Moreover, in some applications a portion of a post extending above the substrate may experience significant torsional forces after installation.

The second level of faces may be the same or similar in configuration with respect to the faces of the first level. Accordingly, each of the faces of the second level may be discrete in nature, with each face in one embodiment being configured as a discrete fin extending from the central region. In some embodiments, the faces of the second level are not discrete and a formed as regions of a continuous structure.

The faces of the second level extend from the central region, and may be unitarily formed with the central region or may be attached thereto. This includes any of the preferred embodiments disclosed supra with reference to the first level.

The angle made by the faces of the second level may be greater than about 5 degrees, but less than about 20 degrees. In one embodiment, the angle made by at least one face of the two or more faces of the second level with the axis is greater than or equal to about 1 degree, or 5 degrees, or 10 degrees, or 15 degrees, or 20 degrees, or 25 degrees, or 30 degrees, or 35 degrees or 40 degrees. In another embodiment, the angle made by at least one face of the two or more faces of the second level with the axis is less than or equal to about 45 degrees, or 40 degrees, or 35 degrees, or 30 degrees, or 25 degrees, or 20 degrees, or 15 degrees, or 10 degrees, or 5 degrees or 1 degree. In yet a further embodiment, the angle made by at least one face of the two or more faces of the second level with the axis is between about 5 degrees and about 10 degrees.

At least some angle is required so as directed a lateral or torsional force to the hole wall (thereby resisting that force) however too great an angle may present large effective face to the force leading in turn a very large force on the face causing deformation or detachment of the face.

In one embodiment, at least two of the second level faces extend from the central region so as to be substantially opposed. In some cases, the second level faces are not substantially opposed but nevertheless evenly distributed about the perimeter of the central region. For example, six second level faces may be provided about a circular post with no two faces being strictly opposed. It is preferred that an even number of second level faces is provided (such as two, four, six, eight, ten or twelve) comprising one or more pairs of faces, with the faces of a pair being substantially opposed to each other. In less preferred embodiments, an odd number of second level faces (such as three, five, seven, nine or eleven) may be provided, with the faces being evenly distributed about the periphery of the central region.

Where the second level faces form substantially opposed pairs, it is preferable that each face is angled at the same or similar degrees to the axis of the central region, although angled in the opposite direction.

Typically the second level faces are disposed at the same level with reference to the central portion. Where the central portion is a post, the faces may be disposed the same or similar distance from the buried terminus of the post.

A second level face of the present engagement means is typically completely planar. Where not completely planar, the angle at which the face is disposed relative to the axis of the central region is calculated by reference to the planar component. Curved second level faces having no planar component are nevertheless considered as potentially operable in the context of the invention.

Preferably, each of the opposing second level faces are of substantially the same or similar size and shape. Furthermore, each of the opposing faces may have substantially the same or similar resistance to deformation and in which case will typically be fabricated from the substantially the same or similar material.

Typically, the expected lateral or torsional force that must be transferred to the second levels faces will be less than any expected pull-out force occasioned on a post, and so generally the second level faces are smaller and/or less resistant to deformation than the first level faces. Better economy in manufacture is provided where the second level faces are not over engineered. In one embodiment, a space exists between the first and second level faces. For example, where the faces are provided by fins, and the fins are applied to a post so as to anchor the post, a bare region of post exists between the first and second faces. Without wishing to be limited by theory in any way it is thought that pull-out resistance is lowered where insufficient space exists between the two levels. It is thought that upon application of a pull-out force the upper faces (especially when not deeply buried) can cause loosening of soil above the higher level fins, this in turn facilitating loosening of soil above the lower level fins which in turn may lead to the complete dis lodgement of the post from the soil. It will be appreciated that the existence of space will not be important in circumstances where only a push-down force is expected (such as where the present invention is used as a footing) given that the push down force cannot lead to loosening of soil above the upper level fins.

In some embodiments, a space (which may be measured from the upper edge of a lower level fin to the lower edge of an upper level fin, both fins being in register) exists which is at least about 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, or 95 cm in height. In some embodiments, the space is at less than about 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, or 95 cm in height.

The present invention has been disclosed thus far mainly by reference to a post used in building construction or fencing construction. Broader utility is contemplated, including configuration to comprise means for engaging another object for which anchorage and/or support is required. Typically the central region is configured so as to provide an attachment portion dedicated to engage the other object. For example, the central region of the substrate compression means may be configured to extend slightly above the surface of the ground and terminate in a post attachment means. Thus, the substrate compression means is buried in the ground, with the post being disposed upon and retained in some manner by the post attachment means. In this way the substrate compression means acts as a support and anchor for a post, with the post being secured to the ground along with the substrate compression means. The post attachment means may be configured to engage with an end or a side of a post, or a rail, or any other elongate member involved in building or fence construction); such means including a post support (optionally with aperture(s) for accepting a fastener), a socket, a sleeve, a stirrup, and the like. The post attachment means may simply be an extension of the central region above the ground level (and may itself be a short post) which allows for the fixation of other building hardware thereto, the hardware in turn allowing for attachment of an elongate building member.

When used in building construction, the present substrate compression means will be subject to significant load (push-down force) due to weight of the building resting thereon. It is anticipated that the present engagement means will similarly direct such forces to the walls of hole to provide resistance to sinking. However, given that there is no possibility of break through the soil surface when a downward force is applied, the resistance to sinking will generally be greater than the resistance to pull-out.

In some embodiments, the attachment means is configured to allow attachment of a wire, a rope, or a cable. In such embodiments, the attachment means may be a simple eye disposed above the ground or slightly below the ground to which a wire or similar may be threaded through and secured, or into which rigging hardware may be inserted with the rigging hardware being in turn used to attach a wire or similar. In these versions of the invention, the substrate compression means acts predominantly as an anchor, resisting pull-out forces applied by straining of the rope or similar. Accordingly, it is less likely that a second level of faces will be required given the relatively lower level of expected torsional or lateral forces applied.

The present invention extends to methods for providing an anchorage or a support for an object by way of burying a substrate compression means of the present invention in a substrate. It is contemplated in most embodiments the method, the substrate is the earth (including materials such as soil, clay, gravel, organic matter and the like). However other natural materials such as snow may also have utility.

In any event, a hole is formed in the substrate (manually or by machine) of sufficient depth and width so as to fully accommodate all faces of the engagement means. For best operation, well compacted substrate should be selected such that the walls of the hole are stable and therefore able to bear the forces directed thereto by the faces of the engagement means. Thus, dry sand would not make a suitable substrate given that a hole having stable walls cannot be formed, however sand that is permanently moist (but not wet) may be suitable given the ability to hold form. Preferably, the substrate is well compacted earth that is relatively difficult to dig and therefore capable of retaining a well formed hole having stable walls. In some embodiments of the method, the hole wall may be fortified by an insert or costing or similar.

The substrate compression means is lowered into the hole, and as deep as possible so as to ensure maximum soil volume above the faces. The substrate used to form the hole is then used to fill around the engagement means. To improve performance, the substrate is sequentially compacted about the engagement means as the hole is being filled. In other embodiments, a different material is used to fill around the substrate compression means. An advantage of the present method is that the substrate compression means may be installed plumb by hanging it vertically within the hole, and then filling in the hole whilst maintaining the strictly vertical orientation. Similarly, the substrate compression means may be installed at a desired level with reference to the ground by ensuring it is suspended at that level while filling in the hole and maintaining the desired level. These are substantial advantages over plate-type anchors and supports which are secured into the ground by piles. In these prior art supports and anchors, it is difficult to maintain a desired orientation and level whilst driving the piles into the ground.

The present invention will now be more particular described by reference to the following non- limiting embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT OF THE

INVENTION

Reference is made to FIG. 1, showing a highly preferred form of the invention useful in building construction. This embodiment used to support and anchor a post used in building construction. In FIG. 1 there is generally shown a substrate compression means 100 having a central region 102 which is essentially a tubular steel post of square cross-section. Extending from the central region 102 are a total of eight fins (six of which are shown and marked 104, 106). Each of the fins 104 and 106 is welded along its edge to the central region 102.

It will be noted that the fins are grouped according alternately at a lower level (fins 104a, 104b, 104c, and fourth fin not shown) and an upper level (106a, 106b, 106c and fourth fin not shown). In this preferred embodiment the fins 104 and 106 are fabricated from steel plate of 6 mm thickness, width of 75 mm and length selected from either 160 mm or 250 mm. It will be noted that the fins of the second level are of shorter (160 mm) length than those of the upper level (250 mm).

Each fin is a member of a pair of opposed fins. For example, fins 106b and 106c are an opposed pair, as is the pair of fins 104b and 104c.

The lower level fins are each disposed the same distance from the terminus 108 of the engagement means, this distance defining a terminal region 110 of the engagement means 100. Given that the terminus 108 is adapted to sit on the floor of a hole (not shown) the terminal region 110 acts as a spacer to dispose the fins 104 well above the hole floor. When filling soil in around the engagement means 100, the terminal region 100 ensures that soil is able to fully encase the fins 104 to provide for the most complete contact therewith. In this preferred embodiment, the terminal region 110 is 100 mm as measured from the terminus 104 to the lower edge of the lower fins 104. Between the upper and lower levels of fins there is an intervening region 112 of the central region 102. In this preferred embodiment, the intervening region is 150 mm as measured from the upper edge of the lower fins 104 to the lower edge of the upper fins 106. Disposed above the upper edges of the upper fins 106 is superior region 114 which in this embodiment is simply an extension of the central region 102. The superior region 114 may be of significant length and extending one meter or more above the ground surface (not shown) to provide, for example, a fence post. Alternatively, the superior region 114 may be much shorter and intended to extend only a short distance above the ground to provide an attachment point for post support hardware, for example. As another alternative, the superior region 114 may be intended to remain substantially buried with only an attached eye (not shown) extending beyond the ground surface to thereby provide an anchorage point for a wire or similar. The regions 102, 110, 112, and 114 are all continuous in this embodiment being formed from a single piece of tubular steel.

In this embodiment, all fins are planar and disposed at the same angle of about 9 degrees to the long axis of the central region 102. It will be noted that the four upper fins 106 are in register with the lower fins 104, with fins in register being angled in opposite directions to each other.

The fourth of the upper fins 106 (not shown) is disposed immediately behind the fin 106a and (if visible) would form an "X" shape with fin 106a. The fourth of the lower fins 104 (not shown) is disposed immediately behind the fin 104a and (if visible) would form an "X" shape with fin 104a.

Turning now to FIG. 2 there is shown the substrate compression means 100 of FIG. 1 disposed within a hole 200 dug into the earth 210. The earth surface is marked 220. The hole 200 has walls 230, a floor 240 and is shown unfilled. In this embodiment, the distance between the upper edge of upper fins is 150 mm, this depth being shown to be sufficient to provide a useful pull-out resistance when the hole 200 is filled and compacted.

In this drawing the central region of the substrate compression means 110 extends a short distance above the earth surface 220 to provide a relatively short attachment region 250 onto which a metal sleeve 260 is slid onto and engages via pin 270 extending through both sleeve 260 and attachment region 250. The sleeve 260 may be used to engage with a further building member (not shown). The substrate compression means as shown in FIG. 2 (although with hole 200 filled with soil) has been demonstrated to bear a pull-out force of 3000 kg immediately after installation, as measured by way of attaching a load cell to the post of the substrate compression means and applying an upwardly directed force to the load cell.

Reference is now made to FIG. 3 to more fully describe a proposed rationale for operation of the substrate compression means. This diagram shows how a movement along the axis of an elongated shaft or post in either direction can by virtue of the placement of plates along the shaft can divert the load in a perpendicular manner (i.e. at right angles to the shaft ) to the walls of a cylindrical hole. This is achieved by compacting earth or similar around the area of the plates that are fixed to the shaft. Seen in this diagram is a post where the areas of compressive load are shown being directed towards the walls of the hole. When the force is directed towards "C" (as occurs in uplift of the post) Plate "A" redirects the force from the vertical upward force to a horizontal force against the wall of the hole (see shaded area "W"). When the force is directed towards "D" (as occurs with a load bearing post) Plate "A" redirects the vertical downward force to a horizontal force towards the wall of the hole (see shaded area "X"). When the force is directed towards "D" (as occurs with a load bearing post) Plate "B" redirects the vertical downward force to a horizontal force towards the wall of the hole (see shaded area "Y"). When the force is directed towards "C" (as occurs in uplift with a post) Plate "B" redirects the force from the vertical upward force to a horizontal force against the wall of the hole (see shaded area "Z").

In the description provided herein, numerous specific details are set forth. However, it is understood that embodiments of the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, structures and techniques have not been shown in detail in order not to obscure an understanding of this description.

In the following claims, any of the claimed embodiments can be used in any combination.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. Substrate compression means configured to be buried in a hole formed in a substrate, the substrate compression means configured to, when buried, compress a substrate against the hole wall when a force is applied to the substrate compression means.

2. The substrate compression means of claim 1 comprising (i) a central portion having an axis, and (ii) two or more faces extending from the central portion.

3. The substrate compression means of claim 2 configured such that, when buried, upon application of a force along the axis of the central portion the faces divert the applied force perpendicularly and toward the hole wall.

4. The substrate compression means of claim 2 or claim 3 wherein each of the two or more faces has a paired face such that, when buried, one of the paired faces is directed generally upwardly and the other of the paired faces is directed generally downwardly such that upon application of an upward force along the axis of the central portion the upwardly directed face diverts the upward force perpendicularly and toward the hole wall, and upon application of a downward force along the axis of the central portion the downwardly directed face diverts the downward force perpendicularly and toward the hole wall.

5. Substrate compression means of any one of claims 2 to 4 wherein two of the two or more faces form a substantially opposed pair of faces.

6. The substrate compression means of claim 5 wherein each of the pair of substantially opposed faces is disposed at a substantially opposite angle to each other.

7. The substrate compression means of any one of claims 2 to 6 wherein the two or more faces are disposed at substantially equal intervals about the perimeter of the central region.

8. The substrate compression means of claim 7 wherein the two or more faces are each disposed at alternating angles to each other.

9. The substrate compression means of any one of claims 2 to 8 wherein the angle made by at least one face of the two or more faces with the axis is greater than or equal to about 1 degree, or 5 degrees, or 10 degrees, or 15 degrees, or 20 degrees, or 25 degrees, or 30 degrees, or 35 degrees or 40 degrees.

10. The substrate compression means of any one of claims 2 to 8 wherein the angle made by at least one face of the two or more faces with the axis is less than or equal to about 45 degrees, or 40 degrees, or 35 degrees, or 30 degrees, or 25 degrees, or 20 degrees, or 15 degrees, or 10 degrees, or 5 degrees or 1 degree.

11. The substrate compression means of any one of claims 2 to 8 wherein the angle made by at least one face of the two or more faces with the axis angle is between about 5 degrees and about 20 degrees, or between about 5 degrees and about 10 degrees.

12. The substrate compression means of any one of claims 2 to 11 comprising two pairs of substantially opposed faces.

13. The substrate compression means of claim 12 wherein at least one pair of

substantially opposed faces are disposed at substantially the same level relative to the central portion.

14. The substrate compression means of any one of claims 2 to 13 wherein the faces are substantially planar and/or substantially elongate.

15. The substrate compression means of any one of claims 2 to 14 wherein the faces have a perimeter describing a regular geometric shape.

16. The substrate compression means of any one of claims 2 to 15 wherein the central portion is substantially elongate and the axis is the long axis of the central portion.

17. The substrate compression means of claim 16 comprising faces at two levels with reference to the substantially elongate central portion.

18. The substrate compression means of claim 17 wherein the faces of the first level are disposed at substantially the same angle as the faces of the second level.

19. The substrate compression means of claim 17 wherein the faces of the first level are in register with faces of the second level.

20. The substrate compression means of claim 19 wherein two faces that are in register are disposed at the same angle, albeit in opposite directions.