U.S. patent application number 10/955731 was filed with the patent office on 2005-02-24 for retaining wall system.
This patent application is currently assigned to Ecoflex Australia Pty Limited. Invention is credited to Callinan, Garry, Cashman, Glen.
Application Number | 20050042039 10/955731 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 27157991 |
Filed Date | 2005-02-24 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050042039 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Callinan, Garry ; et
al. |
February 24, 2005 |
Retaining wall system
Abstract
A retaining wall system (10) is defined which includes a
plurality of tyres (11) arranged in a plurality of courses (14).
The tyres can be offset within the wall and can be cut in various
ways to advantageously improve the strength of the wall. In
addition, reinforcing (25, 30, 32) formed from tyres or conveyor
belts can be associated with the wall system to improve the
structural stability of the wall.
Inventors: |
Callinan, Garry;
(Merewether, AU) ; Cashman, Glen; (Charlestown,
AU) |
Correspondence
Address: |
LAFF, WHITESEL, CONTE & SARET, LTD.
401 North Michigan Avenue
Chicago
IL
60611
US
|
Assignee: |
Ecoflex Australia Pty
Limited
Newcastle
AU
|
Family ID: |
27157991 |
Appl. No.: |
10/955731 |
Filed: |
September 30, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
10955731 |
Sep 30, 2004 |
|
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|
09428508 |
Oct 27, 1999 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
405/284 ;
405/15 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E02D 2300/0003 20130101;
E02B 3/122 20130101; E02D 29/02 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
405/284 ;
405/015 |
International
Class: |
E02D 029/02 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Apr 27, 1998 |
WO |
PCT/AU98/00302 |
Apr 28, 1997 |
AU |
PO 6452 |
Jul 3, 1997 |
AU |
PO 7677 |
Oct 21, 1997 |
AU |
PO 9901 |
Claims
1-72. (canceled)
73: A retaining wall for retaining an embankment or similar
structure including a plurality of tyres arranged in a plurality of
courses adjacent to the embankment and such that a central axis of
each tyre in an outer face of the retaining wall is inclined to
both vertical and horizontal, wherein at least some of the tyres
are each cut to remove a substantial proportion of one of the side
walls and are arranged in the wall so that the remaining uncut side
wall generally faces downwards.
74: A retaining wall as claimed in claim 73, wherein each tyre's
central axis is inclined to vertical at a batter angle ranging from
10.degree. to 20.degree..
75: A retaining wall as claimed in claim 73, wherein adjacent
courses are separated by a fill material or abut.
76: A retaining wall as claimed in claim 74, wherein adjacent
courses are separated by a fill material or abut.
77: A retaining wall as claimed in claim 75, wherein adjacent
courses are separated by a fill material by a distance that is half
a tyre's diameter.
78: A retaining wall as claimed in claim 76, wherein adjacent
courses are separated by a fill material by a distance that is half
a tyre's diameter.
79: A retaining wall as claimed in claim 73, wherein each tyre is
at least partially filled with a fill material, and further fill
material fills gaps between the tyres, and between the tyres and
the embankment.
80: A retaining wall as claimed in claim 79, wherein the fill
material includes concrete at the lowest course of tyres, or a
granular or particulate, free draining material.
81: A retaining wall as claimed in claim 80, wherein the granular
particulate material is selected from a group consisting of cobble,
sand and/or shredded tyre.
82: A retaining wall for retaining an embankment or similar
structure including a plurality of tyres arranged in a plurality of
courses adjacent to the embankment and such that a central axis of
each tyre in an outer face of the retaining wall is inclined to
both vertical and horizontal, wherein at least some of the tyres
are each cut in a plane between opposing side walls thereof and are
arranged in the wall so that both sides walls generally face
downwards.
83: A retaining wall as claimed in claim 82, wherein each tyre's
central axis is inclined to vertical at a batter angle ranging from
10.degree. to 20.degree..
84: A retaining wall as claimed in claim 82, wherein adjacent
courses are separated by a fill material or abut.
85: A retaining wall as claimed in claim 83, wherein adjacent
courses are separated by a fill material or abut.
86: A retaining wall as claimed in claim 84, wherein adjacent
courses are separated by a fill material by a distance that is half
a tyre's diameter.
87: A retaining wall as claimed in claim 85, wherein adjacent
courses are separated by a fill material by a distance that is half
a tyre's diameter.
88: A retaining wall as claimed in claim 82, wherein each tyre is
at least partially filled with a fill material, and further fill
material fills gaps between the tyres, and between the tyres and
the embankment.
89: A retaining wall as claimed in claim 88, wherein the fill
material includes concrete at the lowest course of tyres; or a
granular or particulate, free draining material.
90: A retaining wall as claimed in claim 88, wherein the granular
particulate material is selected from a group consisting of cobble,
sand and/or shredded tyre.
91: A retaining wall for retaining an embankment or similar
structure including a plurality of courses adjacent to the
embankment, wherein at least some of the tyres are each cut to
remove a substantial portion of a first side wall, and whereby each
such tyre is positioned in the wall with a second remaining side
wall facing downwards, with a liner being arranged adjacent to the
second side wall, and with the removed first side wall being
positioned on top of the liner and adjacent to the second side
wall.
92: A retaining wall as claimed in claim 91, wherein a central axis
of each tyre in an outer face of the retaining wall is inclined to
both vertical and horizontal.
93: A retaining wall as claimed in claim 92, wherein each tyre's
central axis is inclined to vertical at a batter angle ranging from
10.degree. to 20.degree..
94: A retaining wall as claimed in claim 91, wherein adjacent
courses: are separated by a fill material; or abut.
95: A retaining wall as claimed in claim 92, wherein adjacent
courses: are separated by a fill material; or abut.
96: A retaining wall as claimed in claim 93, wherein adjacent
courses: are separated by a fill material; or abut.
97: A retaining wall as claimed in claim 91, wherein adjacent
courses are separated by a fill material by a distance that is half
a tyre's diameter.
98: A retaining wall as claimed in claim 92, wherein adjacent
courses are separated by a fill material by a distance that is half
a tyre's diameter.
99: A retaining wall as claimed in claim 93, wherein adjacent
courses are separated by a fill material by a distance that is half
a tyre's diameter.
100: A retaining wall as claimed in claim 91, wherein each tyre is
at least partially filled with a fill material, and further fill
material fills gaps between the tyres, and between the tyres and
the embankment.
101: A retaining wall as claimed in claim 92, wherein each tyre is
at least partially filled with a fill material, and further fill
material fills gaps between the tyres, and between the tyres and
the embankment.
102: A retaining wall as claimed in claim 93, wherein each tyre is
at least partially filled with a fill material, and further fill
material fills gaps between the tyres, and between the tyres and
the embankment.
103: A retaining wall as claimed in claim 100, wherein the fill
material includes: concrete at the lowest course of tyres; or a
granular or particulate, free draining material.
104: A retaining wall as claimed in claim 103, wherein the granular
particulate material is selected from a group consisting of cobble,
sand and/or shredded tyre.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to retaining walls and methods
for forming the same, more particularly, to retaining walls that
utilise tyres and conveyor belts in their construction. When the
term "retaining walls" is used in this specification, it includes
walls used for retaining embankments, such as in civil engineering
applications (eg. road construction, public works etc), but also
includes breakwaters and groins, protecting walls, walls in tunnels
and at piers, quays, etc.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Discarded tyres and conveyor belts from the automotive,
mining and aviation industries represent a significant and growing
environmental problem, due to difficulties with disposal,
environmental breakdown and/or incineration.
[0003] Retaining walls formed from tyres are known in the art. For
example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,480,255 discloses an impact absorbing
barrier for highways, formed from whole tyres and half tyres, and
in-filled with sand material. FR 2,682,700 discloses the use of
tyres in a retaining wall where one side wall of the tyre has been
removed.
[0004] U.S. Pat. No. 5,378,088 discloses a retaining wall formed
from a plurality of segmented automobile tyres. Side wall segments
disposed horizontally form a front row of the wall, and tread
segments of the tyres are connected to the side wall segments and
extend rearwardly therefrom to provide additional support to the
front row. However, the method of forming the front row is both
complex and time consuming, requiring excessing tyre cutting, the
use of rods 17, additional rods 24 and a relatively complex
assembly procedure. Furthermore, the tread segments 20 are provided
solely to support the front wall and there is no disclosure of the
segments providing any reinforcing stability to any fill material
that might be arranged behind the front wall.
[0005] It would be advantageous if at least preferred embodiments
of the present invention provided a retaining wall and a method for
forming the same that improves upon, or at least provides a useful
alternative to, the retaining walls formed from tyres that exist in
the prior art.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a
retaining wall for retaining an embankment or similar including a
plurality of tyres arranged in a plurality of courses adjacent to
the embankment and such that a central axis of each tyre is offset
from vertical.
[0007] An advantage of such a construction is that a sloping
embankment can be formed which then provides additional support to
the retaining wall, and additional strength.
[0008] Typically, each tyre's central axis is offset from vertical
at a batter angle ranging from 10.degree. C. to 20.degree. C. Use
of this angle has been observed in practice to provide ease of
construction of the retaining wall whilst still retaining the
advantages of the inclination of the wall.
[0009] Adjacent courses can be separated by a fill material,
optionally by a distance that is half a tyre in diameter.
Alternatively, adjacent courses can abut. Each tyre can at least
partially (but typically completely) be filled with a fill
material, and further fill material can be used to fill gaps
between the tyres, and between the tyres and the embankment.
[0010] Typical fill materials include concrete (for example at the
lowest course of tyres and at intermittent courses (eg. every
alternating course) in the tyre wall construction). Granular or
particulate, optionally free draining materials, can also be
employed, for example, such as cobble, sand and/or shredded tyre.
The use of shredded tyre further assists in the disposal of
additional discarded tyres and is thus environmentally
advantageous.
[0011] Typically at least some, and in some cases all, of the tyres
are each cut either:
[0012] (a) in a plane between opposing side walls thereof, and can
then be arranged in the walls so that both side walls generally
face downwards; or alternatively (and/or additionally)
[0013] (b) so as to remove a substantial proportion of one of the
side walls, so that the tyres are arranged in the wall so that the
remaining uncut side wall generally faces downwards.
[0014] With option (a), typically a section of the tyre remains
uncut to provide a hinge for pivoting of the tyre portions
thereabout, thereby increasing the strength of the wall (ie. with
each tyre half being attached to another tyre half). Alternatively,
in (b), the removed side wall can be arranged in the tyre to be
adjacent to the remaining side wall when the tyre is located in the
wall. This provides a more stable base in the tyre for the in-fill
of material, and optionally allows for the positioning of a liner
between the removed and remaining side walls, thereby covering the
lower opening of the tyre when arranged in the wall, and making the
tyre better capable of retaining fill therein.
[0015] Optionally, at least some or all of the tyres are provided
with drain holes (eg. drilled therethrough).
[0016] In an alternative construction, the retaining wall can be
formed from solid tyres (or a mixture of solid and hollow tyres).
Suitable solid tyres include discarded forklift tyres and solid
tyres from the mining industry. The advantage of using solid tyres
is that excessive fill does not need to be employed, and the
deformation that can occur with hollow tyre retaining walls is
substantially overcome.
[0017] Alternatively, the deformation where hollow tyres are
employed can also be ameliorated or eliminated by strengthening the
tyre tread wall and side wall(s) (eg. by lining the inside of the
tread wall with further cut tyre tread--cut to suitable lengths).
For example, two additional tread sections can be positioned inside
the tyre to abut the inner face of the tyre tread section (with one
section being located inside the other). In addition, extra tyre
rings (ie. cut tyre side walls) can be positioned within the hollow
tyre prior to filling (for example up to four additional rings can
be employed at the base of a hollow tyre). Such arrangements have
been found to strengthen hollow tyres in the retaining wall and to
prevent deformation, and to also help in disposing of even more
waste (second hand) tyres.
[0018] In a second aspect of the present invention there is
provided a retaining wall for retaining an embankment or similar
that is formed from a plurality of tyres wherein at least some of
the tyres are each cut:
[0019] (a) in a plane between opposing side walls thereof to define
two portions, and such that a section of the tyre remains uncut to
provide a hinge for pivoting of the tyre portions thereabout, and
so that the tyres can be arranged in the wall such that both side
walls generally face downwards; and/or
[0020] (b) to remove a substantial proportion of one of the side
walls wherein the removed side wall is arranged in the tyre to be
adjacent to the remaining side wall, and the tyres are arranged in
the wall so that the remaining uncut side wall generally faces
downwards.
[0021] Such an arrangement makes for the easy in-filling of each
course of tyres when the wall is being constructed (ie. there is
little or no upper side wall to deflect fill material being
arranged in the tyres). Also, the judicious cutting in this manner
can provide a wall that is even stronger than one formed from a
number of individual "intact" tyres.
[0022] In a third aspect, the present invention provides a
retaining wall for retaining an embankment or similar including a
reinforcing section extending rearwardly into the wall from an
outer portion thereof, the reinforcing section being part of the
retaining wall and being formed from:
[0023] (a) portions/sections cut from one or more tyres; and/or
[0024] (b) conveyor belt portions/sections.
[0025] The reinforcing section can be used with retaining walls
formed with conventional facing materials (eg. concrete or stone).
In this case the reinforcing can replace existing reinforcing
materials (such as geofabric materials). The reinforcing section
can also be used very simply in an earthen batter retaining wall
(ie. having no particular facing material other than the earth
itself). However, most preferably the reinforcing section is used
with a face formed from a plurality of tyres in a plurality of
courses (as described below).
[0026] Such reinforcing provides a structurally stable retaining
wall (and is quite different in function to and simpler than, for
example, the arrangement defined in U.S. Pat. No. 5,378,088).
[0027] When the wall facing material is formed from tyres and when
at least some of the tyres in the wall section have an intact
tread, such tyres additionally define an enclosure into which fill
material can be arranged. This means that there is no need for the
employment of rods or pylons (which are otherwise required in the
arrangement shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,378,088).
[0028] Further, because the reinforcing can be constructed
essentially from tyres or conveyor belts and fill material, it is
simpler and economically more expedient than existing
arrangements.
[0029] Typically, the reinforcing section is attached to the wall
facing structure and may either be formed from a plurality of tread
sections, or from a plurality of side wall sections, and optionally
(or alternatively) from a plurality of conveyor belt sections. Both
the tread sections and side wall sections can be cut from
additional tyres, and the conveyor sections can be cut from a
single conveyor belt. The sections can then be joined together to
define the reinforcing section.
[0030] Preferably the sections are joined to define a grid
formation, which thereby replaces the existing geogrids used in the
prior art. It should be appreciated that prior art geogrids are
typically formed from woven and non-woven textiles, optionally
reinforced with polymer; or from polymeric fibres. Such geogrids
and reinforcing materials tend to be very expensive, whereas the
use of tyres and conveyor belts is both environmentally and
economically advantageous and, again, is a simpler option.
[0031] In the grid formation, individual sections can be attached
or linked to and/or threaded through adjacent sections to define
the grid formation.
[0032] Also, a reinforcing section can be provided for each course
and is typically arranged to extend generally horizontally or to be
inclined downwardly into the wall.
[0033] Each plurality of courses typically defines a "row".
Accordingly, in an alternative construction, a plurality of rows of
tyres can be arranged adjacent to the embankment.
[0034] In a fourth aspect, the present invention also provides a
method for forming a retaining wall for retaining an embankment or
similar including the steps of:
[0035] (a) forming a base for the retaining wall adjacent to the
embankment and that slopes downwardly to the embankment from
surrounding ground; and
[0036] (b) arranging a plurality of tyres in a plurality of courses
adjacent to the embankment and along the base.
[0037] As above, the batter angle of the so-formed wall typically
ranges from 10.degree. C. to 20.degree. C. offset from the
vertical.
[0038] Typically, a course of tyres is laid and each tyre is then
at least partially (preferably completely) in-filled with the fill
material prior to laying the next course.
[0039] In addition, each course of tyres can be arranged to be
offset (along the line of the course) from adjacent course(s).
[0040] In a fifth aspect, the present invention provides a method
for forming a retaining wall from a plurality of tyres including
the step of cutting at least some of the tyres:
[0041] (a) in a plane between opposing side walls thereof, wherein
a section of the tyre remains uncut to provide a hinge for pivoting
of the tyre portions thereabout, and then arranging those tyres in
the walls so that both side walls generally face downwards;
and/or
[0042] (b) to remove a substantial portion of one of the side
walls, with the removed side wall being arranged in the tyre to be
adjacent to the remaining side wall, and then arranging those tyres
in the wall so that the remaining uncut side wall generally faces
downwards.
[0043] Such a method is employed with hollow tyres (not solid
tyres).
[0044] In a sixth aspect, the present invention provides a method
for forming a retaining wall for retaining an embankment or similar
including the step of positioning in the wall a reinforcing section
that is formed from portions/sections cut from one or more tyres or
from one or more conveyor belts.
[0045] Thus, the method can be used to form any type of retaining
wall that requires a reinforcing section, and the advantage is that
typical geogrid or geofabric materials used as reinforcing sections
can be replaced by sections formed from tyres or conveyor
belts.
[0046] Preferably a face of the wall is defined by arranging a
plurality of elements in a plurality of courses adjacent to the
embankment to define the wall face. Such elements can be
construction elements used in conventional reinforcing wall faces,
such as concrete blocks, stone blocks etc. Alternatively, the
construction elements can be formed from a plurality of tyres
(optionally cut in accordance with the teachings of the present
invention).
[0047] Typically, the reinforcing section is attached prior to or
after the arranging of at least one course of construction elements
in a face of the wall.
[0048] Also, instead of only using tyres in the reinforcing section
(for example discarded tyres) conveyor belts can be employed
(especially discarded conveyor belts). For example, nylon woven
conveyor belts from the mining industries (being conveyor belts
that do not have any steel or metal content) can be employed. Such
conveyor belts have a high tensile strength and therefore provide
desirable strength characteristics when used as reinforcing in
retaining walls.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0049] Notwithstanding any other forms which fall within the scope
of the present invention, preferred forms of the invention will now
be described, by way of example only, with reference to the
accompanying drawings in which:
[0050] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional side elevation of a retaining
wall according to a first embodiment of the invention;
[0051] FIG. 2 is a plan view of a tyre cut in a plane between
opposing side walls;
[0052] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional side elevation of an alternative
retaining wall according to a second embodiment of the
invention;
[0053] FIG. 4 is a sectional view of the retaining wall of FIG. 3
taken at A-A;
[0054] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional side elevation of an alternative
retaining wall according to a third embodiment of the
invention;
[0055] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional side elevation of an alternative
retaining wall according to a fourth embodiment of the
invention;
[0056] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional side elevation of an alternative
retaining wall according to a fifth embodiment of the
invention;
[0057] FIG. 8 shows a cross-sectional perspective view of a
reinforcing wall constructed in accordance with a preferred method
according to the present invention;
[0058] FIG. 9 shows an underside plan view of two tyres of a tyre
course, illustrating the mode of attachment of reinforcement for
use in a preferred retaining wall;
[0059] FIGS. 10 and 11 show side schematic elevations of two
alternative methods for attaching reinforcing to a tyre;
[0060] FIGS. 12 and 13 show plan views of two alternative methods
for interlocking reinforcing in a reinforcing grid formation
according to the invention;
[0061] FIGS. 14 to 16 show components of reinforcing, prior to
being attached in the manner shown in perspective in FIG. 17;
[0062] FIGS. 18 and 19 show respectively plan and perspective views
of a tyre with a side wall removed therefrom;
[0063] FIG. 20 shows a line of tyre side walls, and tied together,
being an alternative type of reinforcing according to the
invention;
[0064] FIGS. 21 to 25 show various tyre side wall reinforcing
arrangements;
[0065] FIG. 26 shows an arrangement in plan for a pair of tyres,
typically employed at a retaining wall edge or corner;
[0066] FIG. 27 shows a perspective view of a tyre facing, for
rendering a course of tyres suitable for receiving a fabric or
textile coating;
[0067] FIGS. 28 to 30 show further alternative means of attaching
tyre treads to whole tyres; and
[0068] FIGS. 31 and 32 show, respectively, plan and side elevations
of a further preferred embodiment in which reinforcing is provided
by conveyor belts.
MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
[0069] A preferred embodiment of a retaining wall 10 according to
the current invention for retaining an embankment 100 or similar,
comprises a plurality of tyres 11 each having a cavity 12 defined
therein at least partially filled with a fill material 13.
(Alternatively tyres 11 can be solid tyres from forklifts, mining
vehicles etc. In this latter case use of less fill material and a
more stable wall can result). In the preferred embodiment, each
cavity 12 is substantially filled with the fill material 13. The
tyres 11 are arranged in a plurality of courses 14 adjacent to the
embankment 100. Further fill material 15 substantially fills gaps
between each of the tyres 11 and between the tyres 11 and the
embankment 100.
[0070] The embankment 100 is typically excavated away from ground
line 102 to define a wall at an angle to the vertical of
approximately 10.degree. to 20.degree., with the retaining wall 10
similarly having a batter angle of 10.degree. to 20.degree.. In the
preferred embodiments depicted, the retaining wall 10 has a batter
angle of approximately 14.degree. (eg. the central axis of each
tyre in the wall is inclined at 14.degree. with respect to
vertical). Taller walls will typically require a larger batter
angle for stability, whilst smaller walls can employ smaller batter
angles so as to reduce the space occupied by the retaining wall 10.
As well as for retaining typical embankments as used in landscaping
and the like, retaining walls of the current invention may be used
with other embankments including those used as noise barriers or
waterway walls (sea walls) etc.
[0071] Thus, each tyre 11 is typically arranged such that a central
axis thereof is offset from vertical at an angle approximately
equal to the batter angle. With this incline of the tyres 11 to
match the batter angle, the stability of the wall 10 is enhanced by
reducing the reliance on friction between the courses 14 of tyres
11 for shear stability. In prior art retaining wall designs where
shear stability has not been considered to be of prime concern, the
tyres 11 have been laid flat with each subsequent course 14 set
back from the adjacent lower course 14 to provide the batter angle
of the wall 10.
[0072] The tyres 11 are typically arranged such that the tyres 11
of a given course 14 are offset from those of the adjacent lower
course 14 in a typical brickwork fashion. In the preferred
embodiments depicted, adjacent courses 14 are separated by the
further filler material 15, here giving a separation between
courses 14 of approximately half a tyre 11 diameter. Alternatively,
the tyres 11 of adjacent courses 14 may abut, with the further
filler material 15 filling gaps between surfaces of the adjacent
tyres 11 which do not abut.
[0073] The tyres 11 are also typically separated from the
embankment 100 by the further filler material 15. Alternatively the
tyres 11 may abut the embankment 100 with the further filler
material 15 filling gaps where the surface of the tyres 11 do not
abut the embankment 100.
[0074] For larger retaining walls as depicted in FIGS. 3 and 4, two
rows 16a,16b of tyres 11 may be used to complete each course 14.
Utilisation of two rows 16a,16b increases the stability of the
retaining wall 10 enabling increased wall height. The adjacent
tyres 11 in the two rows 16a,16b are typically horizontally offset
as depicted in FIG. 4 and may also be vertically offset as depicted
in FIG. 3.
[0075] The foundation 101 for the retaining wall 10 is here
excavated below the ground line 102 to help secure the lowermost
course 14a in place. To further secure the lowermost course 14a,
the tyres 11 thereof are filled with concrete as the fill material
13 (tyres shown as shaded). A stabilised sand base may be employed
for the foundation 101. Alternatively, the foundation can be a
concrete base (optionally reinforced). For construction with a
waterway wall, where the tyres 10 will act as the interface with
the water, every second course of tyres 11 is typically filled with
concrete to increase the mass of the wall and thereby reduce any
possible instability resulting from wave action.
[0076] The fill material 13 typically comprises a free draining
material in at least some of the courses 14. Here the free draining
fill material 13 is granular and is used in all but the lowermost
course 14a. Cobble has been found to be a suitable fill material
13, whilst the use of other free draining materials, including
shredded tyres is also desirable. Use of shredded tyres further
increases the recyclability of the discarded tyres, but they are
typically not used where the wall construction relies on its mass
for stability.
[0077] The further fill material 15, used to fill gaps between
tyres 11 and between the tyres 11 and embankment 100 is also here a
free draining granular material such as cobble. To further assist
in drainage, drain holes 17 may be provided in the tyres 11, and a
socked perforated sub-surface drain 18 or similar may be laid
between the lowermost course 14a and the embankment 100.
[0078] FIG. 2 depicts a tyre as used in a preferred embodiment
wherein at least some of the tyres 11 are each cut in a plane
between opposing sidewalls 19 thereof and arranged with both of the
sidewalls 19 facing generally downwards. This results in the inner
concave surface of each of the sidewalls 19 facing upwards,
facilitating filling of the cavity 12 with fill material 13 in the
region of the sidewalls 19. A section 20 of the tyre 11 may remain
uncut such that the sidewalls 19 remain hingedly attached at the
uncut section 20. Rather than cutting each tyre 11 into opposing
halves, the upper sidewall of the tyres 11 may be at least
partially removed to facilitate filling of the cavity 12 (see FIGS.
5, 15 and 16).
[0079] To increase the stability of the retaining wall 10, the
tyres 11 may be secured to each other and, if so desired, to the
embankment 100 or foundation 101 with the use of nylon rope or
similar. Reinforcing grids may also be used to secure one or more
of the courses 14 of tyres 11 to the embankment 100. Such
reinforcing grids typically extend at least approximately 0.7 m
into the embankment 100, depending on the wall 10 design, to ensure
stability and allow the construction of taller retaining walls 10.
The embankment 100 may be compacted to more securely hold the
reinforcing grid in place.
[0080] To reduce any fire hazard which the use of rubber tyres may
pose, the retaining wall 10 as a whole, or each of the tyres 11
individually, may be covered with a fire retardant material or
coating. Such a material which may be used is geofabric which is
also typically used as a liner 21 between the embankment 100 and
the retaining wall 10.
[0081] Referring to FIGS. 5 to 7 (where like reference numerals
will be used to denote similar or like parts) cross sectional views
of various alternative retaining walls are respectively shown.
[0082] FIGS. 5 to 7 also show associated desirable slopes of the
wall 10 (1 in 8) and the embankment 24 (1 in 4).
[0083] In the embodiment of FIG. 5, a drainage column 23 is
provided to extend between the tyre row 16 and the embankment 24.
This greatly assists in the release of water trapped in the wall
10. Typically, the drainage layer is defined by cobble backfill
(and in preferred embodiments is about 300 mm wide). FIG. 5 also
shows reinforcing 25 extending rearwardly from the tyre row 16 and
into the embankment. Whilst conventional reinforcing material such
as geofabric (eg geofabric terran 1000) can be used, in accordance
with preferred aspects of the present invention the reinforcing is
formed from longitudinal rubber strips (eg. defined from cut tyres
or conveyer belts) and optionally being formed into grid like
networks.
[0084] In construction of the wall 10 each tyre has respective
reinforcing attached thereto as each course is successively layed
(with the attachment of reinforcing being typically by the various
attachment mechanisms as described below). During construction of
the reinforcing section, controlled select fill 26 is positioned on
top of each reinforcing section and is compacted (typically in 200
mm layers to 98 percent of its maximum modified density).
[0085] Turning to FIG. 6, the arrangement shown in FIG. 5 has been
modified whereby the reinforcing 25 is looped through a respective
tyre and the loop is then closed within the embankment. In other
words, fill 26 is positioned inside and outside of the loop and
this provides an extremely strong structure (whereby the
reinforcing with the fill therein functions like an anchor).
[0086] Turning to FIG. 7, a further variation of the looped
reinforcing is shown. In this case, a further row of tyres 28 is
provided within the embankment itself (and thereby each tyre in row
28 is also filled in with the embankment fill 26). This interred
row of tyres enhances the anchor function of the reinforcement and
provides an extremely strong support for the outwardly facing row
of tyres 16.
[0087] The arrangements shown in FIGS. 5 to 7 provide an
enhancement over the retaining wall arrangements of FIGS. 1 to 4,
and also make better use of discarded tyres and conveyor belts
generally.
[0088] Referring now to FIG. 8, an alternative retaining wall 10'
in accordance with the present invention will be described. The
plurality of tyre courses are essentially the same as either of
those described in FIG. 1, or FIGS. 3 and 4. However, the retaining
wall of FIG. 5 additionally includes grid-like reinforcing 30
extending from a respective course of tyres and rearwardly into the
wall. As each course is successively laid, a respective grid-like
reinforcing 30 is laid to extend rearwardly from that course and
into the wall.
[0089] Once a course of tyres has been placed, the fill of the
retaining wall is brought up to an appropriate level and the
reinforcing grid is then laid onto that fill, before being covered
with further fill to lay the next reinforcing grid and so on (ie.
the grid can be attached to the tyre in situ by appropriate
techniques--described below). Alternatively, the reinforcing grid
can be pre-attached to the course of tyres, such that when the
course is laid, the grid is simultaneously laid.
[0090] The reinforcing grid as shown in FIG. 8 is typically formed
from a plurality of tyre treads which are joined end to end and are
criss-crossed until the appropriate lengths are achieved. Joining
to the tyre courses and of the grid itself can be effected through
adhesives, clamps, steel or textile ties, threading, screwing,
bolting etc. Various joining and threading techniques are described
below. Each grid can extend generally horizontally into the
retaining wall, or can be angled downwardly.
[0091] Referring now to FIG. 9, the attachment of tread lengths 32
to a respective pair of tyres is shown. The tread lengths are fed
through a slot 34 formed near the base of each tyre and are then
attached to the tyre lower side wall 19 either via screwing (eg.
tech screws), bolting, or adhesive 36. Further lengths of tyre
tread can then be attached to the free end of length 32 so that a
long length of tread extends into the wall (as shown in FIG.
8).
[0092] FIGS. 10 and 11 show alternative methods of attaching tread
lengths 32 to tyre 11. In FIG. 10, the tread length is either
positioned under the tyre, or fed through slot 34 and a clamp 38
then fastens the tread length to the tyre, ie. by clamping around
lower side wall 19. The clamp can be formed from stainless steel,
aluminium or other deformable metals.
[0093] In FIG. 11, the tread length is fed up through tyre hole 39
and looped over the side wall 19 and is then fed back through the
tyre side wall 19 via a slot 40 formed in the side wall (or
optionally back through slot 34). The tread length is then attached
back to itself via a tech screw, bolt, clamp, tie or adhesive
42.
[0094] Referring now to FIGS. 12 and 13, two alternative techniques
for forming the grid 30 are shown. In FIG. 12, tread length 32 is
threaded through tread length 32' via a slot 44 formed in tread
32'. In FIG. 13, tread length 32 is slotted through an arch 46,
that is formed by cutting two slots in tread length 32' and then
stretching the arch upwardly and sliding the tread length 32
therethrough.
[0095] In FIGS. 14 and 15 (which show plan and side elevations
respectively of the end of a tread length 32), the arch 46 is
formed near one end of the length. In FIG. 16, the slot 44 is
formed near the end of another tread length 32'. In FIG. 17, the
arch 46 is extended through slot 44 and a third tread length 32" is
then slotted under the arch 46. Thus, this arrangement has the dual
function of attaching tread length 32 to tread length 32' whilst
also enabling the formation of a criss-cross with tread length
32".
[0096] The grid-like reinforcing can also be formed from tyre side
walls 30' (or combinations of tread lengths with tyre side
walls).
[0097] FIG. 18 shows a plan view of a tyre 11 that has had its
upper side wall 19 removed therefrom. The upper side wall 19 can be
arranged inside tyre 11 and adjacent to lower side wall 19'. A
liner cut to appropriate shape (eg. formed from a woven geogrid
textile) can then be arranged between the upper and lower side
walls when the tyre forms part of a retaining wall structure.
Optionally, the upper side wall can be attached to the lower side
wall.
[0098] The arrangement of the liner in this manner functions to
provide an enclosed receptacle for receiving fill material therein.
Typically, the liner is a non-perishable, nylon, free draining and
optionally uv-resistant material.
[0099] FIG. 19 shows a perspective side elevation of the tyre 11
with its upper side wall removed and FIG. 20 shows three such
removed tyre side walls laid in a row, and attached together by
ties 48 (eg. textile or metallic ties or clamps etc). The line of
tyre side walls, can also be laid underneath a course of "whole"
tyres in the retaining wall construction, thereby creating extra
friction and lateral stability in the retaining wall.
Alternatively, a grid formation can be made by attaching together a
plurality of tyre side walls.
[0100] FIGS. 21 to 25 show various tyre side wall reinforcing type
grids. In FIG. 21, the tyre side walls overlap along line A, and
are attached together by varying size ties 48 and 48'.
[0101] In FIG. 22, none of the side walls overlap and thus, the one
size tie 48' can be used.
[0102] FIG. 23 shows an offset configuration where a tie clamp 50
is used to maintain the configuration.
[0103] FIG. 24 shows a tyre side wall having a plurality of holes
52 formed (eg. drilled) therethrough. The side walls can then be
overlapped as shown in FIG. 25 and fastened together at fastening
points 54 (eg. via a cable tie, bolt, screw etc).
[0104] Various other configurations of the grid-like reinforcing
formed from the plurality of tyre side walls are possible. As with
the arrangement of FIG. 8, the reinforcing can be attached to a
respective tyre course 14 prior to the laying of the course or
subsequent to the laying of the course.
[0105] FIG. 26 shows a pair of tyres 11 having a roll of tyre tread
60 positioned therebetween and clamped to each tyre via clamps 62.
This arrangement is typically employed with tyres at the corner of
a retaining wall to give those tyres extra strength and to build
stability and also extra impact resistance (eg. as provided by the
tyre tread roll). Such an arrangement also helps in maintaining the
height of the course at the corner (ie. preventing sagging).
[0106] FIG. 27 shows a line of tyres 11 in a course 14, and having
a tread length 32 attached to the front (and/or rear) face of the
course. The tyre length can be attached via screws, clamps,
adhesives etc. Such an arrangement provides a flat surface along
the course, which is far more receptive for fabric and/or textile
coatings (eg. geofabrics) often employed in retaining walls.
[0107] Referring to FIG. 28, an alternative mechanism for attaching
a tread section 32 to a tyre is shown. In the arrangement of FIG.
28, a bar or rod 70 (optionally of galvanised steel or fibreglass)
is inserted through a slot 46 and is then positioned above the
upper side wall of an uncut tyre 11. The pressure of the fill and
other courses on top of this arrangement ensures its structural
stability. Similarly, in FIG. 29, a section of tread 72 is slotted
through slot 46 to achieve a similar effect to the arrangement of
FIG. 28.
[0108] Referring to FIG. 30, a so-called "dead man" configuration
is shown (similar to that shown in FIG. 7), primarily to provide an
anchoring and tensioning aid to the reinforcing grid 30.
Essentially, a course of tyres 14' for each reinforcing grid 30 is
laid adjacent to the embankment (to be enclosed within the
retaining wall when finally constructed). That course of tyres is
thus connected to the free ends of the retaining grid which, at
their opposing ends, are attached to the course of tyres 14 (ie. at
the front of the retaining wall). The course of tyres at the rear
of the grid aid in the strength of the entire retaining wall, and
also assist in tensioning of the retaining grid (ie. when the
course 14' is pulled or urged rearwardly).
[0109] Referring to FIGS. 31 and 32, a retaining wall 10" formed
from a plurality of tyres 11 has a similar batter angle to that
shown in FIG. 1. The construction of the retaining wall is similar
to that previously described for FIGS. 1 to 8.
[0110] However, rather than employing reinforcing formed from cut
tyres, conveyor belt strips 80 can be employed.
[0111] Typically conveyor belt strips that are 200 to 300
millimetres wide, and that are discarded by the mining industries
are employed. Such strips are typically formed from a high tensile
strength, nylon woven conveyor belt, and typically strips that do
not have any metal content (e.g., steel which would otherwise
corrode within the wall) are employed.
[0112] As can be seen in FIGS. 31 and 32, each strip extends
between tyre courses 14, and is typically attached to beading 82 on
a front section of the tyre.
[0113] The conveyor belt strip is typically connected to the
beading using a proprietary conveyor belt connection (e.g., a 20KN
working cap).
[0114] The conveyor belt strips can also include cross strips 80',
so that a grid formation (as previously described) is formed.
[0115] Typically the conveyor belts are attached to the tyres,
although in some circumstances, the conveyor belt strips can simply
lie adjacent to the tyre wall without being attached thereto.
[0116] One advantage with conveyor belt strips is that they
generally come in very long lengths, and therefore there is no need
to join lengths of strip together to form an elongate section
extending into the wall. This is also advantageous when a grid like
criss-crossing formation in the reinforcing is employed. The
conveyor strips can also be threaded, and linked etc. as defined
above.
[0117] As shown in FIG. 32, the strips can extend generally
horizontally into the reinforcing portion of the wall, or
alternatively they can be arranged to extend downwardly (inclined)
into the wall.
[0118] As with the tyre section reinforcing, the conveyor belt
strips can be anchored at their remote end, and in fact all of the
arrangements and modes of attachment described above for the tyre
sections can be equally employed with the conveyor belt sections
(and thus will not be described again).
[0119] Engineering analysis has indicated that retaining walls in
accordance with the present invention compare favourably with
current typical retaining walls such as timber crib, concrete crib
or segmental brickwork walls, whilst generally being less
expensive, lighter in weight and providing a solution to the
problem of discarded tyre and conveyor belt disposal.
[0120] Whilst the invention has been described with reference to a
number of preferred embodiments, it should be appreciated that the
invention can be embodied in many other forms.
* * * * *