U.S. patent application number 12/658606 was filed with the patent office on 2011-08-11 for segmented ballast base support structure and rail and trolley structures for unstable ground.
Invention is credited to William L. French, SR..
Application Number | 20110194900 12/658606 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 44353844 |
Filed Date | 2011-08-11 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110194900 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
French, SR.; William L. |
August 11, 2011 |
Segmented ballast base support structure and rail and trolley
structures for unstable ground
Abstract
Unstable ground is found in many situations in many locations
around the world and causes such locations to be unsuitable for
building without further support or stabilization. Unstable ground,
such as landfills, can be used for beneficial purposes as opposed
to laying dormant. A segmented ballast base support structure
according to an embodiment of the present invention can be
configured to support free-standing structures, such as solar power
collection systems and wind turbines. The segmented ballast base
support structure can be deployed at unstable ground sites without
digging or expensive filling stabilization techniques. Segments of
the base support structure can be precast at an offsite location
and transported to a site in segments and sections. The segmented
base support structure allows for a cost effective solution to
digging, as well as an easier method of shipping and transporting
structures that would otherwise have to be built on site.
Inventors: |
French, SR.; William L.;
(Lexington, MA) |
Family ID: |
44353844 |
Appl. No.: |
12/658606 |
Filed: |
February 10, 2010 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
405/229 ;
104/106; 405/302.7 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E02D 17/202 20130101;
E02D 27/016 20130101; E02D 27/02 20130101; F24S 25/70 20180501;
E02D 27/08 20130101; H02S 20/10 20141201; Y02E 10/728 20130101;
Y02E 10/72 20130101; F24S 25/617 20180501; E02D 17/20 20130101;
F03D 13/22 20160501; E04H 12/20 20130101; F24S 25/10 20180501; E02D
3/00 20130101; E02D 27/425 20130101; Y02E 10/50 20130101; Y02E
10/47 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
405/229 ;
405/302.7; 104/106 |
International
Class: |
E02D 31/00 20060101
E02D031/00; E02D 17/20 20060101 E02D017/20; E01B 25/22 20060101
E01B025/22 |
Claims
1. An apparatus for supporting a free-standing superstructure, the
apparatus comprising: segments of a base support structure
including interconnection features; linkages configured to couple
to the interconnection features in a manner interconnecting the
segments which, in an interconnected state, collectively serve as
the support structure to support a free-standing superstructure on
an unstable ground.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the segments have defined top
and bottom surfaces and further comprising a ground treatment
including a layer of pliable material spanning the bottom surfaces
of the segments.
3. The apparatus of claim 2 wherein the ground treatment includes a
bottom layer and at least one upper layer, the bottom layer being
the layer of pliable material and the at least one upper layer
having sufficient adaptability to track topological state changes
of the bottom layer due to topological state changes in the
unstable ground beneath the bottom layer while maintaining
sufficient integrity to serve as a platform upon which the base
support structure continuously supports the free-standing
superstructure in a substantially stable orientation across
topological state changes of the unstable ground.
4. The apparatus of claim 3 wherein the segments include multiple
grips protruding from the bottom surface configured to interact
with the at least one upper layer of the ground treatment in a
manner enabling the segments to resist lateral movement.
5. The apparatus of claim 2 wherein the pliable material is liquid
permeable.
6. The apparatus of claim 2 wherein the pliable material has a
tensile strength able to withstand movement of the first and second
segments relative to each other over a predetermined range.
7. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the base support structure is
configured to support the free-standing superstructure in a
substantially stable orientation during occurrences of extreme
natural forces acting upon the superstructure, including high wind,
earthquake, and blizzard conditions.
8. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the segments are configured to
change orientation relative to other segments as a function of the
linkages and interconnection features.
9. The apparatus of claim 8 wherein forces transmitted into a first
subset of segments by the free-standing superstructure are
transmitted into a second subset of segments at a reduced level as
a function of the linkages and interconnection features.
10. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein a first subset of segments are
enclosed by a second subset of segments.
11. The apparatus of claim 10 wherein the first and second subsets
of segments are circular.
12. The apparatus of claim 10 wherein the first and second subsets
of segments are non-circular.
13. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein multiple segment elements
compose each of the segments and wherein the linkages are
configured to couple adjacent segment elements of the same size to
each other and adjacent segment elements of different sizes from
each other.
14. The apparatus of claim 13 wherein the multiple segment elements
composing the segments of the same size are interchangeable.
15. The apparatus of claim 13 wherein the multiple segment elements
are each configured to be separable from and reattachable to
corresponding segment elements of the base support structure.
16. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein a first subset of segments are
not enclosed by a second subset of segments, and vice-versa.
17. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the segments of the base
support structure are a base tier of segments configured to support
an upper tier of segments, the upper tier of segments being
configured to reside between the base support structure and the
free-standing superstructure, wherein segments of the upper tier of
segments are coupled to the base support structure via inter-tier
linkages and configured to support coupling of the free-standing
superstructure to themselves.
18. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the segments of the base
support structure are cementitious.
19. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the segments are rail
structures to which an adjustable trolley structure, wherein the
trolley structure is configured to support a superstructure or
superstructure element.
20. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the interconnection features
include at least one of the following: chamfers, sockets,
cylinders, or interconnected locks.
21. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the linkages include at least
one of the following: chamfers, bolts, latches, cables, grips, or
interconnected locks.
22. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising couplings
configured to enable the free-standing superstructure to be coupled
to the base support structure, wherein the couplings are selected
from a group consisting of: chamfers, bolts, sockets, latches,
cylinders, interconnected locks, straight holes, tapered holes,
clamps, guy-wires, cables, hinges, and ball joints.
23. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the free-standing
superstructure includes a renewable energy power generation
device.
24. The apparatus of claim 22 wherein the renewable energy power
generation device includes at least one of the following devices:
solar panels, solar arrays, photovoltaics, solar cells, heat
engines, wind turbines, or biomass converters.
25. A method for supporting a free-standing superstructure, the
method comprising: maintaining an interconnection between segments
of a base support structure; and supporting a free-standing
superstructure coupled to the segments in a manner of a unified
base support structure to support the free-standing superstructure
thereon on an unstable ground.
26. The method of claim 25 wherein the segments have defined top
and bottom surfaces and further comprising treating the unstable
ground with a layer of pliable material spanning the bottom
surfaces of the segments and gaps therebetween.
27. The method of claim 26 wherein treating the unstable ground
includes treating the unstable ground with a bottom layer and at
least one upper layer, the bottom layer being the layer of pliable
material and the at least one upper layer having sufficient
adaptability to track topological state changes of the bottom layer
due to topological state changes in the unstable ground beneath the
bottom layer while maintaining sufficient integrity to serve as a
platform upon which the base support structure continuously
supports the free-standing superstructure in a substantially stable
orientation across topological state changes of the unstable
ground.
28. The method of claim 27 further comprising: protruding grips
from the bottom surfaces of the segments into the at least one
upper layer; and resisting lateral movement through interaction of
the grips with the at least one upper layer of the ground
treatment.
29. The method of claim 26 further comprising enabling liquid to
pass from the unstable ground to the segments.
30. The method of claim 26 wherein treating the unstable ground
with a layer of pliable material includes configuring the pliable
material to withstand movement of the segments relative to other
segments over a predetermined range.
31. The method of claim 25 wherein supporting the free-standing
superstructure includes supporting it in a substantially stable
orientation during occurrences of extreme natural forces acting
upon the superstructure, including high wind, earthquake, and
blizzard conditions.
32. The method of claim 25 wherein maintaining the interconnection
includes enabling the segments to change orientation relative to
each other as a function of the interconnection.
33. The method of claim 25 wherein maintaining the interconnection
includes maintaining radial interconnections of a first segment to
a second segment.
34. The method of claim 33 wherein the segments are circular.
35. The method of claim 33 wherein the first and second segments
are non-circular.
36. The method of claim 25 wherein maintaining the interconnection
includes reducing forces transmitted from the free-standing
superstructure to a segment at a reduced level from the forces
transmitted from the free-standing structure to another segment as
a function of the interconnection.
37. The method of claim 25 wherein each of the segments include
multiple segment elements and wherein maintaining the
interconnection includes maintaining an interconnection of adjacent
segment elements of the same size and adjacent segment elements of
different sizes.
38. The method of claim 37 further including enabling segment
elements of the same size to be interchangeable.
39. The method of claim 37 further including enabling the multiple
segment elements to separate from and reattach to corresponding
segment elements of the base support structure.
40. The method of claim 25 wherein maintaining the interconnection
includes maintaining a lateral interconnection between the
segments.
41. The method of claim 25 wherein maintaining the interconnection
includes maintaining an interconnection between the base support
structure, as a base tier of segments, and an upper tier of
segments, the upper tier of segments residing between the base
support structure and the free-standing superstructure.
42. The method of claim 25 wherein the segments of the base support
structure are cementitious.
43. The method of claim 25 wherein the segments are rails; and
wherein supporting the free-standing superstructure includes
enabling the free-standing superstructure to move along the rails
in an adjustable manner.
44. The method of claim 25 wherein the segments include at least
one of the following: chamfers, sockets, cylinders, or
interconnected locks.
45. The method of claim 25 wherein maintaining the interconnection
includes employing at least one of the following interconnection
elements: chamfers, bolts, latches, cables, grips, or
interconnected locks.
46. The method of claim 25 wherein supporting a free-standing
superstructure includes maintaining a coupling between the
free-standing superstructure and the base support structure,
wherein maintaining the coupling includes employing a coupling
selected from a group consisting of: chamfers, bolts, sockets,
latches, cylinders, interconnected locks, straight holes, tapered
holes, clamps, guy-wires, cables, hinges, and ball joints.
47. The method of claim 25 further including enabling access to
energy from a renewable energy power generation device coupled to
the free-standing superstructure.
48. The method of claim 46 wherein the renewable energy power
generation device includes at least one of the following devices:
solar tracking systems, solar tracking systems for thermal energy,
solar arrays, photovoltaics, solar cells, heat engines, wind
turbines, or biomass converters.
49. An apparatus for supporting a free-standing superstructure, the
apparatus comprising: means for maintaining an interconnection
between segments of a base support structure; and means for
supporting a free-standing superstructure coupled to the segments
in a manner of a base support structure to support the
free-standing superstructure thereon on an unstable ground.
50. A method of stabilizing an unstable ground for supporting a
free-standing superstructure, the method comprising: treating the
unstable ground with a layer of pliable material; positioning
bottom surfaces of segments above the layer of pliable material;
maintaining an interconnection between the segments in a manner of
a base support structure; and enabling the first and second
segments to allow a free standing superstructure to be coupled
thereto.
51. The method of claim 50 further comprising applying an upper
layer between the pliable material and the segments prior to
positioning the segments above the pliable material.
52. A landfill comprising: unstable ground; interconnected segments
of a base support structure positioned on the unstable ground and
configured to serve as a unified base support structure; and a
renewable energy power generation device coupled to the base
support structure.
53. The landfill of claim 52 further including an energy storage
facility configured to store energy generated by the renewable
energy power generation device.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] Current methods of stabilizing unstable ground require
drilling, digging, filling, or other intrusive methods in order to
make the unstable ground available for supporting a free-standing
structure.
[0002] Unstable ground is found in many situations and in many
locations around the world, and causes such locations to be
unsuitable for building without further support or stabilization.
Such unstable grounds can include areas of natural disasters (e.g.,
mudslides, earthquakes, and sink holes), areas of man-made
weaknesses (e.g., landfills, brownfields, groundfills, and
Superfund sites), or other surface areas that are otherwise
unstable or unsuitable for normal building conditions. A person of
ordinary skill in the art will note that the term "ground" as used
herein does not specifically mean the soil at the surface of the
earth but can be any surface, high or low (e.g., the top of
building or other structure, bottom of a ravine, or basement of a
building).
[0003] Prior art techniques for forming a support system for a
free-standing structure include excavating the ground and pouring a
cementitious or similar material directly into a form or base
structure located on the site. Such prior art support systems
formed on site are employed at stable ground locations such that
the ground does not shift or fail before, during, or after
construction of the support system. Shifting or failing ground can
cause difficulty when forming the support structure and impart
negative effects to any structure later connected thereto.
[0004] An example of unstable ground is a landfill, which is a site
for the disposal of waste materials by burial. Historically,
landfills have been the most common methods of organized waste
disposal, and they remain so in many places around the world. A
landfill also may refer to ground that has been filled-in with soil
and rocks instead of waste materials. Landfills experience severe
shaking of the ground in an earthquake and often experience
internal shifting or movement due to the nature of such areas. Once
materials are no longer to be added to landfills, the landfills are
typically capped with a material that prevents the materials and
potentially dangerous byproducts from releasing to the environment.
Care is taken to avoid disturbing the cap or otherwise penetrating
or disturbing the landfill.
[0005] As overcrowding of developed areas intensifies each year,
land re-use strategies have become important for dormant landfills.
Some of the most common usages are for parks, golf courses, and
other sports fields, which do not require large free-standing
structures that cannot be deployed without considerable excavation
or other processes and which can be constructed without disturbing
the landfill underneath.
[0006] Sites with unstable ground, such as landfills, are
frequently unoccupied, wasted spaces due to lack of ground
stability and because building would require increased time,
effort, and expense to make the land suitable for building. Thus,
such sites are continually abandoned or dormant. Because landfills
and other unstable ground locations are often cleared of any
natural or synthetic structures (e.g., trees or buildings), the
locations can provide large areas with easy access to sunlight,
wind, or other energy sources. Although such sites appear to be
serviceable for building energy-collecting or generating
superstructures, as described above, the grounds are too unstable
absent cost prohibitive pretreatment (e.g., drilled or excavated);
thus, using prior art techniques, any superstructure for supporting
energy collecting or generating devices needs to be installed on a
stable structure firmly connected to a stable ground. To do that,
the unstable ground is currently required to be excavated or filled
at specific locations or as a whole to a significant depth to
provide any hope at all for providing steady support. Moreover,
because landfills or other unstable grounds are predictably
unstable with variability from site to site, it is difficult to
anticipate how difficult excavation and other processes will be to
render the area useful for supporting free-standing structures.
Such unpredictability adds to reluctance of developers and
municipals to commit to projects in which unstable grounds must
first be excavated or filled. Therefore, vast amounts of otherwise
useful geographic areas are allowed to remain dormant and void of
any useful purpose.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] Embodiments of the present invention enable free-standing
structures, such as solar power collection systems and wind turbine
generators, to be deployed at unstable ground sites, such as
landfills, brownfields, groundfills, and Superfund sites, without
digging or similar pretreatment of the unstable ground.
[0008] An example embodiment of the present invention includes an
apparatus (or corresponding method) comprising a base support
structure for supporting a free-standing superstructure when
positioned thereon on unstable ground. The base support structure
can be created by interconnecting segments through use of linkages
that are coupled to interconnection features of the segments in
such a manner that the interconnected segments act as a unified
base support structure.
[0009] The segments of the base support structure may have a wide
surface area or may have a narrow surface area in the form of
rails. In one embodiment, the base support structure has
negligible, if any, flexibility between adjacent segments. In an
alternative embodiment, the base support structure has some
flexibility between adjacent segments, in which case rubber of
appropriate durometer (or other material with a softness less than
that of the segments) may be positioned between the adjacent
segments and, further, the interconnection features and linkages
enable flexing between adjacent segments in this embodiment.
[0010] The base support structure can be implemented on top of a
ground treatment that can include a layer of a pliable material,
such as a stabilization fabric, spanning beneath the segments,
including embodiments with gaps therebetween. Above the layer of
pliable material, which can be considered a bottom layer, the
ground treatment can include multiple layers between the unstable
ground and the base support structure such that an upper layer of
the ground treatment can be sufficiently adaptable so as to track
topological state changes of any of the other layers or the
unstable ground beneath the layers. An example of the upper layers
of the ground treatment may include a layer of selectable thickness
of compactable material, such as gravel or processed material, and
further optionally including a second (or more) upper layer(s) of
aggregate material, such as stone. This configuration of ground
treatment allows for flexibility of the ground treatment such that
it can constantly adjust for, compensate for, or track topological
state changes beneath the bottom layer of pliable material caused
by a shifting of the unstable ground (or its cap if so
configured).
[0011] In an embodiment in which the segments of the base support
structure are firmly interconnected with negligible, if any,
flexibility therebetween, the base support structure experiences
little, if any, orientation state changes (e.g., pitch or roll)
since it moves as a whole with balance of weight across its entire
bottom surface area. In an embodiment in which some flexibility
between adjacent segments is allowed, there may be some
inter-segment orientation stage changes, but, the base support
structure moves substantially as a whole with balance of its weight
across its entire bottom surface; therefore, again, the base
support structure as a whole experiences little, if any,
orientation state changes.
[0012] In one embodiment, the base support structure is completely
uncoupled from any structure firmly locked in place, such as a
piling extending through the unstable ground to a stable ground
below it. In an alternative embodiment, the base support structure
has a limited connection to a structure firmly locked in place.
[0013] The bottom layer of the ground treatment can be a liquid
permeable, pliable material that can be strong and durable so as to
withstand movement from the base support structure or the unstable
ground and withstand changes in orientation of segments of the base
support structure, either as a unified whole or relative to other
segments. The ground treatment, particularly in embodiments with
the pliable material and at least one upper layer, can be
implemented in a manner such that it continues to maintain
sufficient integrity to serve as a platform for the base support
structure such that the free-standing structure coupled to the base
support structure can be maintained in a stable orientation across
topological state changes of the unstable ground. Further, the
segments may have grips protruding from a bottom surface to adhere
to a ground treatment layer better than without the grips.
[0014] Further embodiments of the present invention include a base
support structure that can support a free-standing superstructure
in a stable orientation, even during extreme natural occurrences
such as high winds, earthquakes, and blizzard conditions. In one
embodiment, the segments of the base support structure have fixed
orientation relative to other segments. In another embodiment, the
segments of the base support structure can change orientation
relative to the other segments as allowed by the linkages and
interconnection features so as to provide segmented support for the
free-standing structure, as well as allowing the forces from the
superstructure to be transmitted from segment to segment at reduced
levels.
[0015] The segments , or ring or other shapes defined thereby, of
the base support structure can be configured in any manner of
shapes and sizes, including, but not limited to, circular, ovular,
rectangular, square, polygonal with various angular vertices,
triangular, e.g., hexagonal, octagonal, heptagonal, and irregularly
shaped (e.g., jigsaw puzzle shapes), or side-by-side versions of
the same. Further, the segments composing the base support
structure can be of different shapes and sizes. The shape of the
aggregate base support structure may be defined by the individual
segments.
[0016] Further example embodiments of the present invention include
segment elements that can be separable from and reattachable to
corresponding segment elements of the base support structure. The
base support structure can include additional segment elements
assembled and interconnected vertically (i.e., an upper tier) or
horizontally (e.g., "stabilizer wings") as may be necessary to
support a free-standing superstructure in a manner different from
or better than the base support structure does absent the
additional vertical or horizontal segments.
[0017] Example embodiments of the present invention include
multiple segments and segment elements that compose the segments
that are interchangeable with similar segment elements, all of
which can be coupled to adjacent segments via linkages and
interconnection features. The terms "segments" and "segment
elements" may be used interchangeably herein. The linkages,
interconnection features, and couplings for a free-standing
superstructure can include at least one of the following: chamfers,
sockets, cylinders, interconnected locks, bolts, latches, cables,
grips, holes, clamps, guy-wires, hinges, ball joints, and ball grid
arrays.
[0018] In one embodiment, the base support structure is formed
through pouring cement (or other curable liquid) into a cast, and
allowing the cement (or other liquid) to cure. The difference
between this and the above-described embodiments is that the base
support structure of this embodiment is seamless. Because trucks
carrying such liquids are heavy enough to disturb the landfill,
other techniques are employed to bring the liquid to a site on
which the form is to be cast, such as pipeline or helicopter. While
economically disadvantageous compared to the segment embodiment,
casting the base support structure is still possible in this
manner. Further, cement and other liquids are generally best cast
at a single pouring, thus creating difficulty of having a cement
mixer truck reaching a site without disturbing the landfill or
other unstable ground. However, other liquids may not have a
problem of being carried by very light vehicles transporting small
amounts into a form over the course of a period of time (e.g.,
hours or days), then applying a curing agent, such as a small
amount of other liquid in concentrated form or even a frequency of
light (e.g., ultraviolet), thereby effectively accomplishing the
same non-disturbance of the unstable ground as was done through the
precast segmented embodiment described above. It should be
understood that wood and other natural or synthetic materials may
also be utilized to form the base support structure provided other
criteria (e.g., weight bearing strength and weathering) are
met.
[0019] Further embodiments of the present invention include the
free-standing superstructure coupled to the base support structure,
where a renewable energy power generation device may be attached to
the superstructure. The free-standing superstructure can be any
renewable energy power generation device such as: solar tracking
systems, solar tracking systems for thermal energy, solar arrays,
photovoltaics, solar cells, heat engines, wind turbines, biomass
converters, or other such renewable energy power generation device
as may be supported by the base support structure.
[0020] Other embodiments of the invention include treating a
surface of the unstable ground to support a device, such as a
renewable energy generating device, by applying a layer of pliable
material, optionally applying thereon layer(s) of other materials
(e.g., rocks, gravel, sand) that can adjust to changes of
topological states of the pliable material caused by the unstable
ground, and a base support structure as described above.
[0021] Yet another embodiment includes a landfill (or other similar
area) with unstable ground, base support structure, renewable
energy generation device (or other device, such as a wireless
communications tower antenna) coupled to the base support
structure, and, optionally, an energy storage (or communications
equipment storage) facility.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0022] The foregoing will be apparent from the following more
particular description of example embodiments of the invention, as
illustrated in the accompanying drawings in which like reference
characters refer to the same parts throughout the different
views.
[0023] The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead
being placed upon illustrating embodiments of the present
invention.
[0024] FIG. 1A is a diagram of an area of unused ground on which
embodiments of the present invention allow unstable ground sites to
be used for collection of renewable energy.
[0025] FIG. 1B is a diagram of a segmented ballast base support
structure according to an embodiment of the present invention that
supports a free-standing superstructure to withstand extreme
natural occurrences.
[0026] FIG. 1C is a series of diagrams of a free-standing
superstructure coupled to an embodiment of the present invention
that adapts to topological state changes of unstable ground beneath
it.
[0027] FIG. 2A is a top view of a segmented ballast base support
structure with multiple segment elements arranged in a ring
shape;
[0028] FIG. 2B is a top view of a segmented ballast base support
structure with multiple segment elements arranged in an octagonal
shape;
[0029] FIG. 2C is a top view of a segmented ballast base support
structure according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0030] FIG. 3 is a diagram of an embodiment of the present
invention that illustrates scalability of a segmented ballast base
support structure;
[0031] FIG. 4 is a side view of linkages and interconnection
features optionally defined on or in segments of the segmented
ballast base support structure;
[0032] FIG. 5 is a side view of a ground treatment compilation used
to improve support of a structure on unstable ground;
[0033] FIG. 6A is a diagram of a multi-tiered segmented ballast
base support structure;
[0034] FIG. 6B is a side view of interconnection features between
tiers of segmented ballast base support structures;
[0035] FIG. 7A is side view of a structure site according to an
embodiment of the present invention that supports a rail structure
with adjustable trolley structure to couple to a
superstructure;
[0036] FIG. 7B is a side view of a structure site according to an
embodiment of the present invention that supports a rail structure
with adjustable trolley for interconnection with a
superstructure;
[0037] FIG. 8 is a front view of an adjustable trolley for coupling
a rail structure with a superstructure according to an embodiment
of the present invention; and
[0038] FIG. 9 is a diagram of a landfill on which embodiments of
the present invention allow multiple renewable energy power
generation devices to be implemented.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0039] A description of example embodiments of the invention
follows. Renewable energy refers to energy generated from natural
resources, such as sunlight, wind, rain, tides, or geothermal heat,
which are naturally replenished. Some renewable energy power
generation technologies are criticized for being intermittent,
unsightly, loud, and vast in size, yet the renewable energy market
continues to grow. One environmental issue surrounding renewable
energy power generation technologies is the large amount of land
required to harvest energy, which otherwise can be used for other
purposes. Embodiments of the present invention allow for renewable
energy power generation devices ("power generation devices") to be
placed or built in areas that are away from view and otherwise are
not usually built upon, such as landfills, brownfields, or
Superfund sites.
[0040] Example embodiments of the present invention provide a
support structure for such power generation devices that can be
placed or built upon unstable ground, generally considered to be
ground having low bearing capacities ("unstable ground"). The
support structure provided applies low ground pressure based on its
ability to distribute weight across its entire bottom surface area
with substantially equal distribution and without penetrating the
unstable ground or cap thereon or penetrating the unstable ground
but in acceptable or environmentally friendly manner. Thus,
embodiments of the present invention help solve political and land
availability problems regarding renewable energy power generation
technologies.
[0041] FIG. 1A is an illustration of an unstable ground 101, such
as a landfill, on which an embodiment of the present invention,
which includes a segmented base support structure 105, has been
deployed at multiple structure sites 111. The structure sites 111
may be distributed about the unstable ground 101 in a selectable
manner due to ease of deployment of the segmented base support
structure 105. Ease of deployment is facilitated by segments of the
segmented base support structure 105 being configured to be
positioned on top of the unstable ground 101 and being configured
to be interconnected at the site to form the segmented base support
structure 105. The segments can be precast and transported to the
structure sites 101. Optionally, the unstable ground 101 can be
pretreated ground layers 107, and the segmented base support
structure 105 can be assembled on the ground layers 107.
Free-standing superstructures 115 can then be attached to the base
support structure 105. Thus, the structure sites 111 can include
ground treatment layer(s) 107, segmented base support structure(s)
105, and free-standing superstructures 115.
[0042] In another embodiment, the base support structure may be
seamless through pouring of concrete into a cast at the site. Still
other embodiments may be segmented or seamless and have properties
as described above and below to serve as a base support structure
able to meet criteria or requirements for use on an unstable
ground. For purposes of example only, the embodiments presented
below focus on a segmented base support structure, but it should be
understood that the teachings herein apply to a seamless base
support structure embodiment, as well.
[0043] The free-standing superstructures 110 can support renewable
energy power generation, such as solar power collection assemblies
118 or wind power collection assemblies 119, and other types of
devices, such as wireless tower antennas associated with base
transceiver stations. The power generation devices 118 and 119 can
transmit collected or generated energy to an energy storage
facility 125 via energy transmission cables 120. The energy storage
facility 125 can contain energy storage battery units 126 or other
energy storage device known in the art, optionally physically
organized on energy storage shelving unit(s) 127. Further, the
energy storage facility 125 can include switches (not shown) to
provide energy directly to the outside world without intermediate
storage or provide stored energy from the batteries 126, where both
sources of energy can be delivered to the outside world via energy
access cable(s) 128. It should be understood that the "outside
world" may be power transmission cables of a power grid (not
shown), electric powered vehicles that get recharged at the energy
storage facility 125, or other systems that consume or transport
electric power.
[0044] In some embodiments, the base support structure 105 can be
configured to support multiple different superstructures
simultaneously, such as the solar power collection assemblies 118
and wind power collection assemblies 119. Further, multiple base
support structures 105 can be mechanically coupled together and
provide support for superstructures larger than one base support
structure 105 can support on its own.
[0045] FIG. 1B is a diagram of a structure site 111 employing an
example embodiment of the present invention that includes the
ground treatment 107 and base support structure 105 on which a free
standing superstructure 115 is installed. The free-standing
superstructure 115 can be a solar power collection assembly 118
using any commercially available or custom designed free-standing
superstructure components, such as a shaft or pole 116, to which a
static or dynamic device can be attached, such as a solar panel
array 117 or wind turbine (not shown), respectively.
[0046] The base support structure 105 can be assembled using
multiple segments 130a, 130b, which may be assembled using multiple
segment elements 135a-1 . . . 4 and 135b-1 . . . 4, attached via
linkages and interconnection features (shown in FIGS. 2A-2C and 4
and described in reference thereto) in order to form a unified base
support structure, which is simply a base support structure in an
assembled state. The terms "base support structure" and "unified
base support structure" may be used interchangeably herein.
[0047] The base support structure 105 can be cementitious and
precast at an off-site location for transportation to the unstable
ground location. Alternatively, casting may be done in situ.
Further, the base support structure 105 can be made of other
materials, such as metals, or combination of materials. Regardless
of the manufacturing process or materials, assembly or partial
assembly can be done at the structure sites 111, allowing for low
cost transportability and handleability, among the technical
benefits provided by the segmented base support structure 105.
[0048] Further, because the base support structure 105 can be
placed on the surface of the unstable ground, no digging,
excavation, or filling of the unstable ground is necessary. In
other words, the base support structure can be precast to whatever
size and form necessary, in as many segments or segment elements as
is necessary, and be transported in multiple segments for
unification on site. Using this "segments" and "segment elements"
approach makes realizable a base support structure that would
otherwise be a massive and extremely heavy apparatus and,
potentially, not be transportable.
[0049] Once the multiple segments and segment elements according to
an embodiment of the present invention are linked via linkages (not
shown) on the unstable ground 101, the segments form a unified base
support structure 105 that acts as both a unified structure and, in
some embodiments, a distributed segment structure, generally
dispersing weight and other forces evenly across the structure and
ground unless otherwise configured. In cases in which the base
support structure 105 is positioned on muddy surfaces, the base
support structure 105 may take advantage of suction (i.e., at each
segment or segment element). If the segments or segment elements
have gaps therebetween, the suction locations can be considered
distributed, allowing the structure 105 to withstand loss of
suction forces at a subset of segments or segment elements, such as
due to erosion of soil beneath the subset. Because the base support
structure 105 is unified yet distributes weight, it can be capable
of withstanding extreme conditions, such as high winds 102a,
earthquakes 102b, and blizzard conditions 102c, while maintaining
its integrity and supporting the free-standing superstructure 115
in a substantially stable orientation.
[0050] FIG. 1C is an illustration of a structure site 111 employing
an embodiment of the present invention, having an amount of
flexibility between segments or segment elements, over multiple
time periods (T=0, 1, . . . N). As illustrated in FIG. 1C at time
T=0, which may be just after assembly, the unstable ground 101 is
considerably flat and without movement, allowing the ground
treatment 107 and base support structure 105 positioned thereon to
be relatively even and calm, sometimes referred to as a nominal
state. Because the base support structure 105 and ground treatment
107 are in a nominal state relative to the unstable ground 101, the
segments of the base support structure are in their assembled
orientations relative to each other.
[0051] At time T=1, the unstable ground 101 has shifted (i.e.,
experienced a topological state change) due to some external force
or internal movement. Because the multiple segment elements 135a-c
are configured to retain characteristics of interconnected
segments, thus, capable of changing orientation relative to each
other as a function of the linkages and interconnection features
(not shown), the base support structure 105 is able to maintain
support of the superstructure 115 with substantially the same
orientation relative to its orientation at T=0.
[0052] At time T=N, the unstable ground 101 has further shifted due
to some external force or internal movement, and the multiple
segment elements 135a-c likewise change orientation relative to
each other. The ability of the multiple segment elements to change
orientation as a function of the linkages and interconnection
features upon shifting unstable ground allows for the constant
stabilization of the free-standing superstructure 115 without
exceeding structural limits of the overall base support structure
105 or allowing the superstructure 115 to collapse or tip.
[0053] In an embodiment in which the segments elements 135a-c of
the base support structure 105 cannot change orientation relative
to each other, the base support structure 105 if deployed on the
unstable ground 101 of FIG. 1C would not have angles between the
segment elements 135a-e and would only pitch or roll a minor
amount, if at all, from T=0 to T=N. Further, any amount of pitch
and roll can be compensated for in some embodiments through
mechanical adjustments between the base support structure 105 and
superstructure 115. Because the embodiment in which the segment
elements 135a-c do not change orientation relative to each other
has properties that are clearer than the embodiment having
flexibility between the segment elements 135a-c, the description
below addresses the latter embodiment in more particular
detail.
[0054] FIG. 2A is a top view of an example embodiment of the
present invention illustrating a segmented ballast base support
structure ("base support structure") 205 deployed on top of a
ground treatment (not shown), which can be formed on or applied to
the surface of unstable ground (not shown). The base support
structure 205 can include two or more segments 230a-b, which, in
turn, can each be defined by multiple respective segment elements
235a-1, 2 and 235b-1 . . . 4. The segment elements can be
interchangeable with corresponding segment elements in some
embodiments if the corresponding segments are the same (e.g.,
shape, size, and interconnection features).
[0055] In the example embodiment of FIG. 2A, the first and second
segments 230a and 230b are ring structures, such that the first
segment 230a is encircled by the second segment 230b. For ease of
reading with respect to FIG. 2A and other figures with multiple
concentric ring structures, regardless of shape of the ring
structures, the first segment 230a may be referred to as an "inner
ring structure," and the second segment 230b may be referred to as
an "outer ring structure." The inner ring structure 230a has an
outside edge 236a (i.e., circumference) that essentially matches to
the inside edge 236b (i.e., inner circumference) of the outer ring
structure 230b. Adjacent ones of the multiple segment elements of
the inner ring structure 230a are securely integrated together with
linkages 240. Adjacent ones of the multiple segment elements 235b-1
. . . 4 of the outer ring structure 230b can be similarly securely
integrated together with linkages 240. Adjacent ones of inner and
outer segment elements are securely integrated together with
linkages 240. The segment elements in an interconnected state form
a unified base support structure (as in FIG. 1B), while, in some
embodiments, maintain the properties and characteristics of
segmented elements. It should be understood that the linkages 240
can be configured to provide selectable amounts of flexibility
between adjacent segment elements, including zero flexibility.
Choices of how much flexibility in potential multiple degrees of
freedom (i.e., roll, pitch, and yaw, or other orientation degrees
of freedom) to allow the segments to have relative to each other
may be based on parameters associated with the unstable ground,
materials of the segment elements, or linkages, configuration of
interconnection features to which the linkages interconnect,
superstructure, expected weather conditions, and so forth.
[0056] In the center of the inner ring structure 230a, or other
segment(s) of the base structure as may be required by the
characteristics of the site and superstructure, are superstructure
connection coupling(s) 275 sized and spaced to bear the
superstructure. The superstructure connection coupling(s) 275 can
take on various forms, such as a raised area, beveled area,
imprinted area, carved-out area, or another such connection feature
and employ linkage(s) such that a superstructure (not shown) can be
attached to or fitted in the base support structure 205. In
alternative embodiments, the superstructure connection coupling(s)
275 can span the inner ring structure 230a and outer ring structure
230b, thereby providing a balanced load across the base support
structure 205. In some embodiments, the superstructure connection
coupling(s) 285 provide multi-degree of freedom movement to enable
the segment elements 235a-1, 2 and 235b-1 . . . 4 to change
orientation states relative to each other with more flexibility
than in embodiments in which the coupling(s) 275 connect the
superstructure to the segment elements with fixed orientation.
[0057] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that
various changes in forms and details of embodiments of the present
invention may be made herein without departing from the scope of
the invention encompassed by the appended claims. For example,
dimensions, materials, and shapes of elements herein can be varied
depending upon the situation at hand. For example, the ring
structures can be made into any shape or size. Further, features
defining segments and segment elements or defined in or by surfaces
of same can be formed with irregular shapes (not shown) and grooves
such that each segment is only able to be connected to its specific
matched element (e.g., a protruding triangular shape is matched to
a recessed triangular shape). Such shapes can help to provide
"instructions" or "guidelines" to follow when constructing and
assembling the segmented elements on site. Further, as mentioned
above, it can be useful to assemble the first and second segments
of the base support structure using segmented elements thereof for
many purposes, including, but not limited to, an easier ability to
ship, transport, assemble, etc. each element from an origin (e.g.,
manufacturing plant) to a destination (e.g., landfill).
[0058] FIG. 2B is a top view of an example embodiment of the
present invention illustrating a segmented ballast base support
structure 205 in an octagonal formation. It should be understood
that any other shape, such as a circle, polygon with vertices
having more or less angle than an octagon, or random shape, may
alternatively be employed. the circular and octagonal shapes are
embodiments presented herein in further detail for illustration
purposes only.
[0059] Continuing to refer to FIG. 2B, the first and second
segments 230a and 230b, respectively, the segment elements 235a-1,
2 and 235b-1 . . . 4, and linkages 240 illustrated in FIG. 2B can
be substantially the same as corresponding elements described above
in reference to FIG. 2A. An advantage of forming a base support
structure with an octagonal (or certain other geometric shapes)
shape as compared to circular shapes is an ability to construct
multiple base support structures 205 next to each other with
maximized use of ground surface area. It will be understood by
those skilled in the art that the segments can be formed in a
multitude of different shapes and sizes as is found necessary for
different sites, working conditions, styles, etc.
[0060] FIG. 2C is a top view of another example embodiment of the
present invention illustrating a segmented ballast base support
structure 205 composed of a first segment 230a that is located at
the side of a second segment 230b and attached by linkages 240 and
interconnection features 245. Such a side-by-side formation of
segments is another possible configuration for the assembly of the
first segment 230a and the second segment 230b. It should be
understood that the side-by-side formation can be constructed
similar to the inner ring segments 235a-1, 2 of FIGS. 2A and 2B,
but in the embodiment of FIG. 2C, inner and outer ring segments
(not shown) may each be semicircles and may have links arranged in
a single axis between left and right hemispheres.
[0061] FIG. 3 is an illustration of an unstable ground 301 on which
an example embodiment of the present invention, which includes a
segmented base support structure 305, has been deployed.
[0062] The base support structure 305 can be assembled using
multiple segments 330a and 330b, which can be assembled using
multiple segment elements 335a-1, 2 and 335b-1 . . . 4,
respectively, optionally cementitious and precast at an offsite
location. Additional segment(s) 335c defined by segment elements
335c-1 . . . 5 can be similarly precast off site, at a same or
different time, and transported to the unstable ground 301 for
further assembly of the base support structure, which may be done
for scalability purposes. For example, a first superstructure 315a
of a certain size or type can be mounted to a base support
structure 305 assembled by segments 330a and 330b. But, for
whatever reason (e.g., newer model with change of type or size of
superstructure or higher power generation requirements), a larger
superstructure 315b is to be added to or replace a smaller
superstructure 315a at the structure site 311. The change of the
superstructure may drive requirements for additional or increased
support by the existing base support structure 305 from one having
two concentric ring structures 330a, 330b to one that necessitates
three concentric ring structures. In such a case, the base support
structure 305 can be enlarged by further assembly with additional
segment elements 335c-1 . . . 5, in this case a third ring
structure, which can be interconnected to the segment elements
335b-1 . . . 4 of the now-second ring structure 305b via linkages
and interconnection features (not shown), thereby providing
increased support for the larger superstructure 315b, which
includes distribution of weight on the unstable ground and ability
to withstand tipping or tilting forces of a larger or taller
superstructure. If necessary, the superstructure connection
coupling(s) 375 can be changed, enlarged, or reduced in order to
interconnect with the larger superstructure 315b.
[0063] FIG. 4 is an example embodiment of the present invention
illustrating a linkage 440 and corresponding interconnection
feature 445 that may be used to interconnect segments 430a, b or
segment elements 435a, b to each other, or the free-standing
superstructure to the segments or segment elements. In the case of
segments or segment elements, an interlocking feature set 446, with
a socket 447a defined in one segment or segment element and a tab
447b defined (in the form of cement or other material) protruding
from the other segment or segment element, can be employed to make
a stiffer coupling than a linkage can provide. It should be
understood that no "play" (i.e. movement) or a certain amount of
"play" may be allowed by the feature set 446 to allow orientations
of the segments or segment elements to be different, up to a limit
that causes the tab 447b or material around the socket 447a to
yield. The interlocking feature set 446 may, in some embodiments,
be considered a linkage (tab 447b) with interconnection feature
(socket 447a).
[0064] Continuing to refer to FIG. 4, in the case of segments 430a,
430b, the first segment 430a can be securely connected to the
second segment 430b using a plurality of different methods or
combination of methods. For example, the first and second segments
430a, b of the base support structure can be fitted with female and
male components of connector(s). The linkage 440 can be a male
component extruding from the second segment 430b and an
interconnection feature 445 can be a female component protruding
into the first segment 430a. Alternatively, both segments 430a, b
can have female (or male) components as interconnection features
445, and a male (or female) link 440 can be connected to each.
Linkages 440 and interconnection features 445 can be in any
formation or arrangement associated with the base support structure
and superstructure so as to provide support and unification of the
segments and structures. Other forms and manners of interconnecting
the structures can include, for example, using tubing, piping,
interconnecting shapes or forms, applying glue, etc. A plurality of
these linkages and interconnection features can be used,
implemented, added, and/or removed so as to provide sufficient
retaining force to hold each element to another element or
structure, as needed. For example, in an embodiment having
flexibility between orientations of adjacent segments, on a flat
surface that may experience a high degree of topological state
changes, structurally softer (i.e., more flexible) interconnections
may be useful to allow the segments of segment elements to track
the changes. On a high slope surface, structurally stiffer (i.e.,
less flexible) interconnection features may be useful to maintain
alignment in vertical and horizontal directions between
interconnected segments.
[0065] Linkages 440 and interconnection features 445 can be
implemented on all tiers and dimensions of the structures, as
required. For example, linkages may be installed on the side, top,
bottom, inside, outside, or around the structures and can include
any one of or combination of: chamfers, bolts, latches, cables,
rebar, grips, interconnected locks, ball-joints, or other forms of
linkages known in the art.
[0066] In addition to the linkages, other types of supporting and
reinforcing elements may be inserted, added, implemented, or
integrated with the other structures as is necessary from site to
site, such as interconnection features 445. For example, the
linkage 440 can be a bar (e.g., rebar) embedded within abase
support structure such that the segments of the base support
structure are joined together by placing the rebar into an
allocated hole 445 within another segment of the base support
structure to interlock the two segments. Although this linkage and
interconnection feature is disclosed as rebar, a number of other
connecting elements may be substituted therefore. Other such
interconnection features may include, but are not limited to,
chamfers, sockets, cylinders, interconnected locks, cups, ball
joints, etc.
[0067] The interconnecting mechanisms can be secured in a manner
known in the art during or after the construction of the segmented
base support structure to provide an intimate and secure contact
between the structures or a loose and flexible contact between the
structures.
[0068] FIG. 5 is an illustration of an unstable ground 101, such as
a landfill, on which an embodiment of the present invention, which
includes a segmented base support structure 505 on top of a ground
treatment 507, has been deployed. The ground treatment 507 can be a
compilation of materials that can be laid down on a surface layer
503 of the unstable ground 501. The ground treatment 507 can be
implemented in multiple layers, of multiple forms, at multiple
depths, with multiple compositions, or by multiple methods. For
example, in FIG. 5, a bottom layer 560 of the ground treatment 507
is located closest to the surface 503 of the unstable ground 501.
The bottom layer 560 can be any liquid permeable or impermeable
base material that can increase the stability of the ground surface
503. For example, bottom layer 560 can be a geosynthetic material
including, but not limited to, geotextiles, geogrids, geonets,
geomembranes, geosynthetic liners, geofoam, or geocomposites. While
the polymeric nature of such geosynthetic products makes them
suitable for use in the ground where high levels of durability can
be required, other products may also be employed. For example, the
bottom layer 560 can also be any natural or synthetic liner with
high-tensile strength, flexibility, and/or elongation without
failure. The bottom layer 560 may be designed to withstand stresses
imposed upon it by orientation differences in the segments or
segment elements above it, where the stresses may be transmitted to
the bottom layer via intermediate layers.
[0069] The ground treatment 507 can include multiple other layers
above the bottom layer 560, for example, one or more top layers 565
(i.e., intermediate layers between the base structure and bottom
layer), which can be employed using some form of sediment, e.g.,
gravel, rock, sand cobble, pebble, or granules. The one or more top
layers 565 can also be implemented using other forms of natural or
synthetic materials. Example embodiments of the present invention
can use the same type of material for any of the ground treatment
layers 507, but completely different materials or some combination
of different and similar materials can alternatively compose the
layers.
[0070] Furthermore, the base support structure 505 can be placed on
top of the ground treatment 507. The base support structure 505 can
have a top surface 531 and a bottom surface 533, with the bottom
surface 533 being located closest (e.g., on) to the ground
treatment. The bottom surface 533 can employ grips 550 in order to
connect with more surface lateral resistance with the ground
treatment layer(s).
[0071] The ground treatment bottom layer 560 may be a liquid
permeable layer in situations in which it is beneficial for liquid
to permeate from the unstable ground to the structure site so as to
allow for a suction or suction-like effect to provide greater
holding force of the base support structure and the ground
treatment. Such suction may enable a subset of segment elements to
do the job of a much larger base that does not have suction forces
available. Forces acting on interconnected segment elements can be
evenly or unevenly dispersed across the segments if suction
releases in some areas but not in other areas.
[0072] FIG. 6A is a diagram of a multi-tiered structure 660
employing an example embodiment of the present invention that
includes a base support structure 630 and an upper tier structure
650. The base support structure 630 can be a base tier structure
assembled on the unstable ground 601, with or without pretreatment.
The upper tier structure 650 can be assembled on top of the base
support structure during initial assembly of the base support
structure 630 or at a later time.
[0073] The upper tier structure 650 can be assembled as a single
continuous structure (e.g., a platform of any material (not shown))
or as a multi-segmented structure similar to the base support
structure 630. The upper tier structure 650 can be assembled using
multiple segments including a first segment 655a interconnected to
a second segment 655b. Each segment 655a, 655b can be assembled
using multiple segment elements (not shown), which are
interconnected to each other and other segments via linkages and
interconnection features in a manner described above in reference
to FIGS. 2A-2C and 4.
[0074] Optionally, the upper tier structure 650 can be further
configured to be interconnected to a superstructure (not shown) via
superstructure connection coupling(s) 675. Some embodiments of the
upper tier structure 650 can be interconnected to other segments
and other tiers of structures via linkages 640 and interconnection
features 645 such that the segments and multi-tiered structure can
be in an interconnected state, collectively serving as a
multi-tiered, unified, support structure that retains the
characteristics of segmented structures as a function of the
linkages and interconnection features. An example advantage of a
base support structure 630 with multiple tiers is an ability to
retain a horizontal position of the upper tier 650 even if the base
tier 630 pitches or rolls, up to a limit defined by physical
constraints, to maintain orientation of the superstructure
positioned thereon.
[0075] In other embodiments of the multi-tiered structure 660, the
multi-tiered structure can employ multiple different types of
linkages and interconnection features such as necessary to properly
disperse different weights and forces imparted onto the structure
from external and internal forces (e.g., the coupled
superstructure). Some embodiments of the multi-tiered structure 660
can be interconnected via a ball grid array (described in reference
to FIG. 6B).
[0076] FIG. 6B is an illustration of a linkage and interconnection
feature, such as a ball grid array, in which an example embodiment
of the present invention can be employed to interconnect multiple
tiers of a base support structure and an upper tier structure. The
additional upper tier structure (as described in reference to FIG.
6A) can include multiple linkage and interconnection features (not
shown) in addition to or in place of the ball grid array. A ball
grid array can be implemented between two or more tiers of
structures such that interconnection feature sockets 645 can be
assembled in or on the top surface 631 of the bottom tier base
support structure 630. Linkages can be assembled in or on the
bottom surface 633 of the upper tier structure 650.
[0077] In some embodiments of the present invention, the
interconnection features 645 can include movable elements (e.g.,
ball bearings) such that when the upper tier structure 650 is
assembled on top of the bottom tier base support structure 630, and
the ball grid arrays of each structure are aligned, the upper tier
structure can move in connection with and reaction to the bottom
tier base support structure without increasing stresses or forces
between or among the structures. Further, the ball grid array
technique allows forces of the upper tier structure 650 to be
distributed uniformly at each ball grid location into the bottom
tier of the base support structure 630. Using the ball grid array
approach makes realizable a multi-tiered base support structure
that can maintain stabilization of a free-standing superstructure
as a function of a tilt range allowed between the upper and bottom
tiers. Further, extendable links, springs, or other elements to
raise or lower components of the interconnection features 645 may
be employed to compensate for change in spacing due to an angle
change between the upper tier structure 650 and bottom tier of the
base support structure 630.
[0078] FIG. 7A is a side view of a structure site 711 employing an
example embodiment of the present invention that includes the
ground treatment 707 and on which a rail structure with adjustable
trolley structure 770 is installed. The rail structure can be
considered segments and segment elements that are linear as
compared to the shapes of segments and segment elements described
above (e.g., FIG. 1B, segments 130a, 130b and segment elements
135a-1..4 and 135b-1..4), wherein a pair of rails or rail segments
can be considered a base support structure, so as to be easily
transportable and handled. For example, multiple rail structures
771 and multiple trolley structures 773 can be precast in any
available material (e.g., metal) off-site and transported to and
assembled on an unstable ground site. Alternatively, the rail
structure(s) 771 casting may be done in situ. The rail structures
771 can be interconnected by assembly components 740 and 745, or,
alternatively, interconnection can be implemented using surface
mounts or other such linkages to attach the rails and trolleys to
the ground treatment, or other such apparatus or structure. The
rail structures 771 can be arranged in any manner (e.g., different
angles, heights, widths, etc.) as is required from site to site and
can be rearranged or manipulated at a later time.
[0079] The rail structure 771 can be coupled to a beam structure
(shown in FIG. 8 and described in reference thereto) in order to
couple the rail structures 771 further to the adjustable trolley
structures 773, which are configured to enable support and
manipulation of structures or superstructures coupled thereto.
Further, the adjustable trolley 773 may incorporate support legs
774 for coupling to the superstructure or superstructure component,
such as solar panel array 717.
[0080] It should be understood that the forms of the rail structure
with adjustable trolley structure 770 can be its own individual
component deployed on a ground treatment on unstable ground.
Alternatively, the rail structure with adjustable trolley structure
770 can be deployed on or integrated with (e.g., formed during
precasting or casting of segments) a base support structure (not
shown). An embodiment deployed on or integrated with a base support
structure can include a slope adapter, such that the structure
elements (e.g., rails, trolleys, base support structure, etc.) can
be adjusted in any or particular direction.
[0081] FIG. 7B is an illustration of a rail structure 771,
adjustable trolley structure 773, support legs 774, and
superstructure 717, according to an example embodiment of the
present invention. The rail structures 771, which can vary in
length and dimension (e.g., 20'-50'), can be implemented or
arranged on the ground treatment (not shown), or other structure,
based on the parameters (e.g., width, height, weight) of the
superstructure to be coupled thereto. Further, the rail structures
771 can be coupled to a beam structure 772 such that the rail
structures and the beam structures form one continuous component or
multiple components interconnected using assembly components 740
and 745. Further, the beam structures 772 may include
corresponding, integrated or associated, mounting components 740
for interconnecting with the assembly components 740, 745 of the
adjustable trolley structures 773. The rail structure with
adjustable trolley structure 770 of this example embodiment is
configured to support one or more support legs 774 in a manner such
that the support legs 774 are configured to support a
superstructure or superstructure element, such as a solar panel
array 717. The rail structure with adjustable trolley structure 770
can be employed to assemble, rearrange, and/or disassemble the
superstructure or superstructure elements to or from the base
support structure by employing a "track" that allows ease of
movement onto and off of the base support structure.
[0082] FIG. 8 is a side view of an adjustable trolley structure
873, according to an example embodiment of the present invention,
which includes support legs 874, deployed thereto. The adjustable
trolley structure 873 can further include a gear and wrench
mechanism interconnecting and securing the adjustable trolley
structure 873 to the beam structures 872 by employing assembly
components 840, 845 that can include: locks, racks, set screws,
ball bearing sockets, ball bearing joints, ball grid arrays, ball
and socket joints, support beams, etc.
[0083] In an example embodiment of FIG. 8, the support legs 874 can
be configured to be adjustable (e.g., vertically, horizontally,
rotationally, etc.), for example, such that the support legs 874
may be different heights at different times, or different heights
relative to other support legs 874. The top portion of the support
legs 874 can be interconnected to a superstructure or
superstructure element (not shown), assembly components 840 and
845. The adjustable trolley structure 873 may be configured to
enable manual or mechanical manipulation of the coupled support
legs 874 such that the support legs 874 can sustain any calculated
movements from the base support structure so as to maintain a
stable orientation of the coupled superstructure as a function of
the linkages and interconnection features of the base support
structure (not shown).
[0084] Further, example embodiments of the rail structure with
adjustable trolley 870 can be configured to be automatically
adjusted via a motorized angle control and angle sensor mechanism
("sensor") (not shown) as may be necessary to operate embodiments
of the present invention in a dynamic manner. The sensor can be
incorporated into the base support structure or other such
structure as may be necessary, and can be defined by a switch, such
as a mercury tilt switch, which can allow for the flow of electric
current in an electric circuit in a manner that is dependent on the
switch's physical orientation relative to a structure, such as a
segment (area or rail type), support leg 874, solar panel or other
structure having a known relationship with the superstructure. For
example, if the base support structure or segment of same changes
orientation for whatever reason, the mercury tilt switch connects
electric current to activate the motorized angle control to cause
the rail structure with adjustable trolley structure 870 or
mechanism thereon to move in an angle and/or orientation opposite
to the base support structure so as to maintain a stable
orientation (e.g., vertical or angular) of the coupled
superstructure.
[0085] Optionally, embodiments of the present invention can employ
an internal or external electronic heating system, which can
operate either manually (e.g., turned on as needed) or mechanically
(e.g., in conjunction with an automatic activation device that can
trigger the heating system to turn on when sensors sense
precipitation or freezing temperatures), such that the mercury tilt
switch, sensor, or other such device (e.g., rotational elements
associated with the superstructure) that can be affected by
temperature or ice can function. Alternatively, the rail structure
with adjustable trolley structure 870 can be manually adjustable
via a winch (or similar apparatus as is known in the art) such that
the rails and other system elements can be deployed without
electronic sensors or other systems.
[0086] FIG. 9 is an illustration of a landfill on unstable ground
901, on which an embodiment of the present invention, which
includes a rail structure and adjustable trolley structure 970, has
been deployed at multiple structure sites 911.
[0087] The landfill 901 can include an energy storage facility 925
(shown in FIG. 1A and described in reference to same), methane
extraction system (not shown) employing pipes 991, drainage system
992, alarm house systems for monitoring methane levels 993, and any
other landfill components as is known in the art. The structure
sites 911 can be distributed about the landfill 901 in a selectable
manner due to ease of deployment of the segmented base support
structure 905. The structure sites 911 can further be deployed on
the segmented base support structures 905, such as structures 205
described in reference to FIGS. 2A-2C, may be positioned on ground
treatments 907, such as one described in reference to FIG. 5.
Alternatively, the structure sites 911 can include a rail structure
and adjustable trolley structure 970 (see the rail structure and
trolley structure 770 of FIG. 7A), which can be deployed on a
ground treatment 907 on a southern-facing slope.
[0088] In some embodiments of the present invention, the rail
structure and adjustable trolley structure 970 is deployed on a
southern-facing slope, for maximum sun exposure, particularly if
supporting static solar panels, and can include fixed
superstructures 915 (e.g., with solar panel arrays) that can be
adjusted seasonally to account for different conditions (e.g.,
solar movement). Alternatively, the superstructures can be dynamic,
such that the superstructure 915 can be adjusted in a thirty
degree)(30.degree. range from East to West, or vice versa, from a
nominal state. The nominal state can include a fixed point facing
due south, and the 30.degree. range can be 30 degrees to the East
and/or 30 degrees to the West. Such dynamic movement of the rail
structure with adjustable trolley structure 970 can include
separating the trolley structures from the rail structures so as to
be individually adjusted on or around the slope. The segmented rail
structure may be preferable to the segmented base support structure
for slopes, including 1:1, 2:1, 3:1, or 4:1 slopes, where 1:1
refers to a slope defined by one foot out and one foot down, 2:1
refers to a slope two feet out and one foot down, and so forth).
The segmented rail structure may also be used on a flat
surface.
[0089] Another example embodiment of the present invention is a
cementitious segmental ballast base support system useful for
supporting a solar or wind power generating device on unstable
grounds comprising an octagonal shape formed from two or more
octagonal and segmental rings comprising: a. an inner octagonal
ring made from two or more securely integrated octagonal and
segmented circular parts having a center designed to contain said
generating device structure, and, b. an outer octagonal ring made
from segmented quadrants securely connected together and formed
around said inner ring and securely attached thereto, whereby each
segment of each ring is pre-cast cementitious material and each
part of each ring is securely fashioned by a series of connecting
points to each of said rings.
[0090] Yet another example embodiment of the present invention is a
cementitious segmental ballast base support system useful for
supporting a solar or wind power generating device on unstable
grounds comprising a circular shape formed from two or more
circular and segmental rings comprising: a. an inner circular ring
made from two or more securely integrated and segmented circular
parts having a center designed to contain said generating device
structure, and, b. an outer circular ring made from segmented
quadrants securely attached thereto, whereby each segment of each
ring is pre-cast cementitious material and each part of each ring
is securely fashioned by a series connecting points to each of said
rings.
[0091] A further embodiment is a ballast base support system of the
foregoing two embodiments wherein each of said segmented elements
has a top, a bottom, an outer edge, an inner edge and two sides,
wherein each of said sides is chamfered in a manner to form locking
edges so that when each element adjoins another, the locking edges
are mated to further ensure a tight connection. The ballast base
support system may include a series of plates integrated along each
of said sides on the outer edge thereof and said plates are bolted
together with matching plates on adjoining elements to further
ensure a tight connection. The ballast base support system may
further include reinforcing elements added to the cementitious
material used to form said elements and further reinforce said
elements. The ballast base support may still further include a
series of holes formed along said sides in a downward manner so as
to permit bolts to be inserted therein and to further ensure a
tight connection when elements are joined together.
[0092] While this invention has been particularly shown and
described with references to example embodiments thereof, it will
be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in
form and details may be made therein without departing from the
scope of the invention encompassed by the appended claims.
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