With Piercing Or Expanding Earth Anchor Patents (Class 52/155)
  • Patent number: 6412444
    Abstract: An anchor and tether animal restraining device having a line extending between a pair of anchors. At least one of the anchors is an angle-spike anchor having an angled portion for providing control over the line and, further, a smooth walled enclosure partially covering a base portion of the angle portion for preventing entanglement of a leash which attaches an animal, such as a dog, to the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2002
    Inventor: Vaughn P. Esham
  • Patent number: 6405684
    Abstract: A turtle harvesting tool for locating and retrieving turtles from marshes. The turtle harvesting tool includes a rod having a first end and a second end. The first end is generally pointed. The rod has an arc therein such that a hook is defined. The arc is located nearer the second end than the first end. The rod has a break therein generally located between the first and second ends such that a first portion and a second portion of the rod are defined. A coupling member removably engages an end of the first portion to an end of the second portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2002
    Inventors: Robert D. Ferran, Mary B. Ferran, Robert P. Ferran, Richard T Ferran, Randy D. Ferran, Rodney J. Ferran, Scott D. Ferran
  • Patent number: 6401408
    Abstract: A stake having first and second generally planar members intersecting along a common longitudinal axis extending from a leading end adapted for ground penetration to a trailing end with a striking surface includes a plurality of steps toward the trailing end adapted for supporting posts of varying diameters. Support pads extend in a circumferential direction about the longitudinal axis from the steps to provide a support surface for securing a posts of varying diameters and/or shapes with a fastener. In one embodiment, the stake includes a number of holes extending through at least one of the first and second members and the first and second members include scalloped edges with a common apex at the leading end. In another embodiment, the second member includes a triangular portion with an apex displaced relative to the apex of the first member which may include a triangular or trapezoidal portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Assignee: Plastics Research Corporation
    Inventors: Carl I. Schwartz, Richard C. Kruyer, Richard A. Gauthier
  • Patent number: 6401407
    Abstract: The present invention provides an earth anchor to secure a cover over a trench or hole in the ground. The device has a retaining cap which is attached to a rod. Extendible arms are connected to the rod below the cap. The end of the rod opposite the cap is inserted into the hole or trench until the cap rests at ground level, either on separate cover plates or on the ground itself. For large holes, the cap retains separate cover plates over the hole; for small holes, the cap acts as a cover itself. The arms are extended by a jack screw, rack and pinion, or other means until they contact the substrate or underside of the cover plates and clamp the same between the cap and the arms. The cover can be removed by reversing the motion of the jack screw or rack and pinion, and retracting the arms, thereby freeing the device to be removed from the whole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Assignee: Stay-Put Safety Plate Distribution, Inc.
    Inventor: Doy T. Humphrey
  • Patent number: 6402432
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for installing a pile or load-bearing element into soft ground, wherein a non-percussive force, rather than a percussive force such as that applied by a hammer or a jack, is applied to the top of a hole-forming tool or pile (1) so as to push the hole-forming tool or pile (1) in a substantially continuous motion to a first depth into the ground, and wherein the hole-forming tool or pile (1) is then pushed in a non-percussive manner to a second depth while being simultaneously rotated. A cast-in-situ pile is formed in soft ground by pushing a hole-forming tool (1) provided with fins (3) at its base into the ground. Once the required level has been reached, the hole-forming tool (1) is rotated and concrete or grout is pumped through the body of the hole-forming tool so as concomitantly to help displace and replace the soil swept away by the fins (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Assignee: Kvaerner Cementation Foundations Limited
    Inventors: Melvin Gerard England, Wilfred George Kenneth Fleming, Roger Martin Darke
  • Publication number: 20020066240
    Abstract: A spiral stake includes a handle structure which facilitates transfer of downwardly and torsionally directed forces from a user's hand to the stake during installation in the ground at a selected location. The spiral stake includes a spiral section, and a straight transition section extending between the handle and the spiral section. A portion of the handle contacting the users palm when downward and torsional force is applied thereto presents a convex curvature of suitable dimension and shape characteristics to distribute resistive forces comfortably to the user's hand. In a preferred embodiment, an opposed region of the handle contains a series of indentations forming a grip for the corresponding reception of the user's fingers, resulting in improved ergonomic feel and force-transfer efficiency.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2000
    Publication date: June 6, 2002
    Inventor: Jeffrey J. Chizmas
  • Patent number: 6370827
    Abstract: A ground anchor rod drilled into soil is held in place by a generally rectangular stabilizer having various side thicknesses of about 2-1 cm from a top to a bottom portion and a front and backside having a width of about 20 cm. The front face contains multiple depressions over its entire surface for receiving soil. The backside has two parallel spaced. apart vertical protrusions for enclosing a portion of the ground anchor rod when the stabilizer is hammered into the ground juxtaposed to the ground anchor rod. The stabilizer is made from a high strength plastic such as ABS and can withstand loads in excess of four thousand pounds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Inventor: Dan Chalich
  • Patent number: 6360495
    Abstract: A sand spike system anchors a cable in an earthen substrate. A penetrator connected to the cable has folded petal-shaped sections of spring steel propelled into the earth by a propellant. Cables connected to opposite petal-shaped sections help arrest penetration and spread the folded petal-shaped sections outwardly to increase the resistance to tensile loads. Sand spike system may use a delay activated or an electrically initiated propellant to drive the penetrator into the earth instead of mechanical, hydraulic, or pneumatic force. This permits remote initiation of sand spikes from a safe distance on land or underwater. In addition, each sand spike creates far a greater surface area to entrain and use the earthen substrate and not friction to anchor, and, as a consequence, it safely bears greater tensile loads on the cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2002
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventor: Stephen J. Schelfhout
  • Patent number: 6349514
    Abstract: A ground stake is disclosed having a plurality of blades extending outwardly from a longitudinal axis. The blades are connected along the length of the axis by at least one conical rib to promote retention of the stake within the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2002
    Assignee: Adams Mfg. Corp.
    Inventor: William E. Adams
  • Publication number: 20010045067
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for reinforcing a ground on which is disposed a loading structure, comprising a series of structural inclusions disposed in the ground and adapted to mechanically reinforce said ground, the inclusions having a diameter D comprised between substantially 0.2 m and 0.6 m, two adjacent inclusions being separated by a distance (A) such as 2D≦A≦10 D, the series of inclusions being made of a material having a Young's modulus of between 500 and 10,000 MPa, a load transmitting layer interposed between the ground and the loading structure, said layer having a Young's modulus less than the Young's modulus of the series of inclusions, a first nominal height between two adjacent inclusions of the series, and a second height less than the first nominal height at locations situated just above the series of inclusions, where the load transmitting layer is plastically compressed by the inclusions which partially penetrate within the load transmitting layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2001
    Publication date: November 29, 2001
    Inventor: Jean-Marie Cognon
  • Publication number: 20010045068
    Abstract: A ground anchor rod drilled into soil is held in place by a generally rectangular stabilizer having various side thicknesses of about 2-1 cm from a top to a bottom portion and a front and backside having a width of about 20 cm. The front face contains multiple depressions over its entire surface for receiving soil. The backside has two parallel spaced apart vertical protrusions for enclosing a portion of the ground anchor rod when the stabilizer is hammered into the ground juxtaposed to the ground anchor rod. The stabilizer is made from a high strength plastic such as ABS and can withstand loads in excess of four thousand pounds.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 1999
    Publication date: November 29, 2001
    Inventor: DAN CHALICH
  • Publication number: 20010039769
    Abstract: A ground anchor, such as a tent peg, includes a channel-section, ground-penetrating base member, and a second member at or adjacent one end of the base member. The second member projects (or is capable of projecting) from the base member at an inclination thereto and is provided with an attachment point for a tether.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventor: Robert John Orr
  • Publication number: 20010034981
    Abstract: An anchoring member is provided for anchoring an object to a supporting surface having a bore for receiving the anchoring member. The anchoring member comprises an elongate cylindrical body having a penetrating end arranged to be embedded in the bore and an exposed end opposite the penetrating end. The exposed end is configured differently than the penetrating end for distinguishing which end is to be embedded into the bore. At least part of the outer surface of the body is threaded adjacent the exposed end. An adhesive compound arranged to be coated about the penetrating end of the body secures the body within the bore. A heat generating compound located within a chamber in the body generates ambient heat for assisting in setting and curing the adhesive compound for anchoring the body in the bore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2001
    Publication date: November 1, 2001
    Inventors: William G. Steed, David Langtry
  • Patent number: 6286270
    Abstract: An anchor used in concrete construction serves both as a bar termination and as a transition or starter bar anchor for use between pours or at forms for poured-in-place construction, or at the surfaces of precast elements. The anchor includes a core and is of relatively short axial extent, which has substantial peripherally continuous deformations which provide a large area bonding surface relative to the diameter or area of the core. In a preferred form, the increased bonding surface area is created by a circumferentially continuous flute or ridge which has a substantial height relative to the core. In a preferred form, the ridge is the form of a continuous helix. The height of the rib is preferably about ⅓ the axial spacing or pitch. The core includes bar sockets at one or both ends which may be designed to accommodate bar ends for a variety of mechanical connections, although tapered thread connections are preferred.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Inventors: Paul Gruson, Anionius M. Kies
  • Patent number: 6272798
    Abstract: A post anchor capable of being in ground soil comprising an elongated metal rod, a drive section located at a first end of the rod and a boring section located below the drive section and substantially adjacent a second end of the rod. The drive end includes a drive connector, a stabilizing cap, and a mounting apparatus. The mounting apparatus mounting the stabilizing cap for swiveling motion relative to the drive end so that the stabilizing cap is adjusted for surface alignment with the ground soil when the anchor is set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2001
    Inventor: Norman F. Cockman
  • Patent number: 6256942
    Abstract: A stake system for utilization within various types of soil conditions without require various designs of stakes. The inventive device includes a shaft having a spiked end, a hook secured to the upper end of the shaft, and a pair of first prongs secured to the lower portion of the shaft. The first prongs are comprised of a bendable material for allowing adjustment of the angle with respect to the shaft. If the invention is utilized within light soil, sand or gravel, the first prongs are preferably extended at a significant angle with respect to the shaft. If the invention is utilized within heavy soil, the first prongs are preferably parallel to or slightly extended from the shaft. In an alternative embodiment, a pair of second prongs are attached to the shaft in addition to the first prongs for increasing the gripping within the soil surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Inventor: Michael A. Schatz
  • Patent number: 6237289
    Abstract: An improved wing-type ground anchor. The ground anchor includes a central body portion, wings radiating laterally from the body portion, and a leg portion at the front end of the body portion GROUND ANCHOR that operates like a star-point drill for penetrating the ground. The sides of the leg portion each include a plurality of sharpened leading side edges which are longitudinally offset from each other. Each of the wings also includes a plurality of sharpened leading side edges which are longitudinally offset with respect to each other. The offset leading side edges and wing edges progressively extend greater distances laterally outward from the body portion along the length of the leg portion and the wings. Since smaller side edges and wing edges are advanced first, the staged side and wing edges facilitate passage of the ground anchor through soil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Assignee: Foresight Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas E. Jewett, John Yapundich
  • Patent number: 6230451
    Abstract: An ice skating rink structure comprising a plurality of boards and a plurality of brackets is provided. Each of the brackets has a U-shaped support for holding one or more of the boards and has at least one downward projection for insertion into the ground. The downward projection of the bracket is inserted into the ground and boards are placed within the U-shaped support such that the boards define the shape of an ice skating rink. A liner is placed inside of the ice skating rink and water is poured onto the liner and allowed to freeze and form an ice skating rink. By using boards with different heights, the present invention allows for the quick assembly of an ice skating rink on level or unlevel ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2001
    Assignee: Sto-Cote Products, Inc.
    Inventor: James E. Stoller
  • Publication number: 20010000842
    Abstract: A longitudinal stabilizing system for a premanufactured building having support joists extending along the length of the underside of the building and being supported above the ground by upright piers. The system comprises at least one foundation plate, a joist connector, a plate connector, and a rectilinear strut. The foundation plate is placed between the pier and the ground. The joist connector attaches to the joist of the building. Plate clamps may be used in conjunction with the joist connector to grasp the joist. The plate connector attaches to the foundation plate. The strut is attached to the joist connector at one end and the plate connector at the other end such that the strut slopes downward from the joist towards the ground.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2000
    Publication date: May 10, 2001
    Inventor: Charles J. MacKarvich
  • Patent number: 6171022
    Abstract: The method for engaging a geosynthetic or erosion mat including a soil engaging layer to underlying ground includes the steps of feeding a length of twine out over the soil engaging layer of the mat, and pressing a loop of the twine into the ground at intermittent points therealong. If required, an enhancing step of compressing the ground over the pressed in twine may be incorporated into the method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2001
    Inventor: Stephen W. Decker
  • Patent number: 6128867
    Abstract: A ground anchor 20 with stabilizer cap 26 secures above ground objects, such as premanufactured buildings 50, during storms, high winds or ground tremors. The ground anchor has an anchor shaft 22 which is inserted into the ground and at least one auger blade 24 attached to the lower end of the anchor shaft. The auger blade engages the ground and forcibly draws the anchor shaft downwardly into the ground as the anchor shaft is rotated by an installation driver. The circular stabilizer cap 26, having a diameter greater than the auger blade, is mounted concentric to and normal to the upper end of the anchor shaft. Rigidly attached to the stabilizer cap is a skirt 30. The skirt rotates in unison with the anchor shaft, and engages and enters into the undisturbed ground outside the hole made in the ground by the auger blade. A tie down strap 62 connects a winch mount 36, attached to the top of the stabilizer cap, to the premanufactured building.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Inventor: Charles J. MacKarvich
  • Patent number: 6062771
    Abstract: A novel piling comprises a tubular member containing a plurality of passages therein. The piling includes a first rod longitudinally placed within the inner diameter of the tubular member, with the first rod having a first plurality of blades attached thereon. The first plurality of blades will be aligned with the plurality of passages. The piling also includes a gripping member adapted for rotating the blades from the inner diameter of the tubular member to an extended position protruding through the passages. The gripping member consist of a first gripping surface formed on the first end of the first rod and a rod holder, operatively attached to the second end of the tubular member. The rod holder will contain the second end of the rod so that the first rod may be rotated by a turning of the first gripping surface. The novel piling may also include a second plurality of passages therein, along with a second rod longitudinally placed within the inner diameter of the tubular member and adjacent the first rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Inventor: Kenneth B. Roberts
  • Patent number: 6058662
    Abstract: The invention provides exemplary earth anchors and methods for their use. In one exemplary embodiment an earth anchor comprises and elongate hub having a trailing end and a leading end. At least one blade is attached to the hub, with the plate having a discontinuous circular periphery. The blade is configured such that a continuous circle drawn around the periphery of the blade defines an area. The blade has an area that is less than about 70% of the area of the circle, and the ratio of a path at shear resistance for the blade to the perimeter of this circle is greater than about 90%. Tubular extensions are attached to the hub and poured above the hub to facilitate injection of a low-strength, impermeable non-cementitious chemical grout in order to seal potential paths for water created by installation of the anchor and thereby reducing the risk of increase rate of soil heave in expensive soils.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Assignee: Secure Products, LLC
    Inventor: Howard A. Perko
  • Patent number: 6050034
    Abstract: An anchoring apparatus for securing a pole into ground, which includes a tubular section being retained in the ground for supporting the pole. A support element is disposed on the open end of the tubular member, for supporting the pole proximate to the open end. The support element includes an annular outer member, which is rotatably disposed on the tubular section, and includes a support aperture eccentrically offset with respect to the center of the outer member. An annular inner member is rotatably disposed within the support aperture, and includes a receiving aperture eccentrically offset with respect to the center of the inner member, for supporting the pole. The outer member and inner member are respectively rotatable to vary the positions of the support aperture and the receiving aperture, so as to selectively tilt the poles longitudinal axis to a desired position with respect to the direction of the longitudinal axis of the tubular section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2000
    Assignee: Klaus Krinner
    Inventor: Klaus Krinner
  • Patent number: 6047505
    Abstract: Load bearing capacity of a pile which is driven into the ground to support any of various structures is markedly increased following an initial period of pile driving. The pile includes a hollow pipe having a lower end region with longitudinal grooves which extend upward from an earth piercing shoe at the base of the pipe. An expansive force is exerted on the lower end region after the initial pile driving to rupture the pipe at the grooves and to bend strips of the pipe material outward for a first distance. Further pile driving bends the strips further outward as downward motion of the strips is resisted by the rim of the shoe and by ground which underlies the strips. This enables use of shorter piles and reduces driving time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2000
    Inventor: Robert E. Willow
  • Patent number: 6032498
    Abstract: A security system for securing personal property at a beach including two augers is provided. A pair of augers (15,16,50,100) are screwed into the sand. A crossbar (11,102) placed in loops (13,14,56) on the exposed ends of the augers. The crossbar is locked to the augers so that the augers may not be unscrewed from the sand. Items of personal property (31,140) may then be locked to the security device formed by the augers and crossbar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Inventors: Thomas M. Sherlock, Eric W. Kramer
  • Patent number: 6032880
    Abstract: A beach umbrella support is provided including a rigid hollow post. Also included is a spiral flange fixedly coupled to an outer surface of the post. At least one ear is fixedly coupled to the post and further fixed with respect to the flange for affording leverage. An umbrella rod is removably mounted within a top end of the post for being supported by the post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Inventors: Robert H. Verrills, Daphne Verrills
  • Patent number: 6021601
    Abstract: An anchor comprising a curved picket is provided. The picket has a first end and a second end and an attachment element, for receiving a trainer, positioned proximate to the first end of the picket. The second end of the curved picket is penetrable into a surface of a soil or other penetrable substance, in a manner that anchors the picket. The picket penetrates the root system of the plant. The root system provides additional anchoring support for the picket and the attached trainer. A trainer is attached near the first end of the picket and a plant is trained to grow along the trainer. The anchor is a simple and inexpensive device that firmly anchors a trainer near the ground while preventing the trainer from directly contacting the ground. The anchor is more resistant to winds and erosion when compared to conventional anchors. The tension on the trainer is adjustable after the anchor is set into the soil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2000
    Assignee: Growers Supply Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Carl Weathers, deceased, by Charlene M. Weathers, legal representative
  • Patent number: 5992103
    Abstract: Method and arrangement for anchorage in the soil by means of a ground anchor (1) in the form of a tube (2) in which at least two axial slots (3a, 3b) are arranged along at least one region of a tube wall in a part of the tube which is to be driven into the soil. This tube (2) is driven into the soil by cooperating with a pike (4) which is arranged in the tube (2) and which, after the tube has been driven in, is removed therefrom. The method according to the invention is characterized in that the tube (2) in at least one region with axial slots (3a, 3b) is subjected to a radial load by means of a tool (5) which is sunk into the tube and which is actuated so as to exert a controllable expansion of the tube is brought about in this region. The tool is removed from the tube when a predetermined degree of expansion has been attained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Inventors: Torbjorn Norman, Steve Johansson
  • Patent number: 5992435
    Abstract: A stake assembly includes a spike having a first end and a second end defining a longitudinal axis of the stake. A flange is connected at the second end of the spike and extends laterally therefrom, the upper surface of the flange forming the axially and extremity of the second end of the spike. A receptacle is recessed axially into the flange and second end of the spike. A resilient fastening member, such as a coiled spring, has a first end connected in the receptacle between the flange and the first end of the spike and a second end extending out of the receptacle beyond the upper surface of the flange. A tether or leash may be fastened to the second end of the resilient fastening member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Assignee: BS&B Safety Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary R. Kindell, Sharon D. Kindell
  • Patent number: 5988194
    Abstract: An anchoring system and method for temporary structures is disclosed. The system comprises: At least a first stake having a shaft with a lower end for insertion into the ground, and an upper end including a loop; at least a second stake having a shaft with a lower end for insertion into the ground, and an upper end including at least one hook. When the lower ends of the at least first and second stakes are inserted into the ground, the lower ends of the stakes are angled away from each other, the shaft of the second stake is received through the loop of the first stake, and a portion of the shaft of the first stake is received within the at least one hook, whereby the at least first and second stakes are in a mutually interlocked condition which prevents the at least first and second stakes from being independently extracted from the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Inventor: Larry Phillip Collins
  • Patent number: 5975808
    Abstract: A pile assembly which is driven into the earth for building foundations of engineering and construction employs a leading pile comprising a hollow column having a plurality of openings formed in a side wall thereof and a lower sharpened tip end and an open upper end, a wedge component having a plurality of elongated wedge members. The wedge component is movable downwardly in a space within the column. The leading pile has a guide component for guiding said elongated wedge members through the openings of the column into the earth when the wedge means is depressed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Inventor: Yasuhiro Fujita
  • Patent number: 5943831
    Abstract: A handle for pulling or lifting a sheet with leaves thereatop. A handle has a rod shaped main body. The handle is extendable through holes in the sheet. In one design of the handle, a spring biased latch closes adjacent portions of the handle to prevent accidental disengagement of the handle from the sheet. Another handle design has an elastically deformable main body to releasably hold the sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1999
    Inventor: William H. Pangburn
  • Patent number: 5910087
    Abstract: A control joint for forming and controlling concrete structures such as floors and tilt-up walls. The joint has a base and an upstanding web with an off-set section and is preferably extruded from plastic. In alternate embodiments, the joint has a base and a web with a removable top cap for forming a chamber or recess in the completed product. A reusable, reinforced form for structures such as stem walls is also disclosed which form can be cut at spaced-apart locations to the desired length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 8, 1999
    Inventor: Randy A. Carter
  • Patent number: 5899030
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to the use of a post anchor adaptable to impact insertion into the earthen ground to rigidly support a post extending above ground level. The post anchor is functional without requiring the use of concrete to reinforce the post anchor within the earthen ground. A driveable member and a locking member cooperate to form each post anchor. The driveable member must be formed from at least one piece of a sheet material. The sheet material is subjected to a deforming process to render definable unique panels thereon definable from adjacent panels by a linear juncture. A post engaging channel cooperates with a plurality of ground engaging fins to provide displacement resistance properties to the post anchor. A secure attachment, using the locking member, occurs to secure the post to the driveable member following placement of both the post and the driveable member during the installation procedure. Either a single sheet piece or multiple sheet pieces form the driveable member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 4, 1999
    Inventor: David H Barefield
  • Patent number: 5890842
    Abstract: A ground anchor includes a planar drive head with a shank extending therefrom. The shank includes a plurality of inline segments with each segment including a cylindrical shaft portion and a cone-shaped tapered portion. The tapered portion of each upstream segment is connected to a shaft portion of an adjacent downstream segment. This relationship presents a plurality of indentations along the length of the shaft. Upon penetration of the shank into the ground, the earth collapses into the indentations which resist withdrawal of the anchor from the ground due to forces acting on the structure secured to the anchor such as a tarpaulin or the like. The planar drive head lies adjacent the ground to preclude above ground interference.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 6, 1999
    Inventor: Henry W. Dahill
  • Patent number: 5884439
    Abstract: An adjustable concrete form comprises at least one tube and an adjustable stake having a post and a tube cradle. The tube has at least one drainage aperture providing the form with drainage. The adjustable stake is configured for adjustably supporting the tube in spaced-apart relation to an excavation bottom. The post has at least one slender end to facilitate driving the post partially into the excavation bottom. The tube cradle is configured for releasable engagement with the tube to thereby secure the tube relative to the post and to support the tube in spaced-apart relation to the excavation bottom. The tube cradle is adjustably connected to the post so that adjustment of the post relative to the cradle effectuates adjustment of the tube relative to the excavation bottom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1999
    Assignee: Hess Bros., L.L.C.
    Inventors: John Hess, III, Harold Hess
  • Patent number: 5881495
    Abstract: A combination turf stake and frame construction assembly for establishing a framework construction upon a ground surface. The turf stake includes an elongate spike portion having a first inserting end, a second supporting end and a plurality of vane portions projecting in circumferentially spaced apart and axially directed fashion substantially along the spike portion. A substantially polygonal shaped body defining a hollowed and interior cavity is integrally formed atop the second supporting end of the turf stake and substantially corresponds to a likewise polygonally shaped and inserting end of a selected elongate frame construction member so as to engage the elongate member in a friction fit manner. A plurality of turf stakes and frame construction members can be employed to assemble any desired framework construction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1999
    Assignee: Roll-Tech, Inc.
    Inventor: J. Matthew Clark
  • Patent number: 5864993
    Abstract: An auxiliary stake or stabilizer for reinforcing a rod turned into the ground and placed under tension from a guy wire. The stabilizer has a flattened body characterized by a partially circular groove extending longitudinally along the body. The groove engages the rod and prevents the stabilizer from being displaced from parallel orientation to the rod while the stabilizer is being driven into the ground. The groove is preferably partially circular, for cooperating with rods having circular cross section. The stabilizer has a broadened head for receiving impacts and driving forces, and a tapered distal end for readily penetrating the ground. A preferred material is recycled plastic, which is substantially impervious to natural deterioration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1999
    Inventor: Raymond Wells
  • Patent number: 5850715
    Abstract: The ground anchor comprises two substantially triangular shaped plate members mounted to an elongate, substantially cylindrical member. The plate members are pivotably mounted on the elongate member so as to be selectively and pivotably moveable relate to the elongate member between a first or storage position, wherein the plate members abut or overlie one another, or a second or in-use position wherein the plate members extend away from one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 22, 1998
    Inventor: Rex William Francis
  • Patent number: 5832672
    Abstract: A device for anchoring a corner of a beach blanket or towel to the sand of a beach. The device includes a clamp removably attachable to the corner of the beach blanket or the towel for enabling the corner to be anchored to the sand of the beach, and a spike removably receivable in an eyelet defined on the clamp, for anchoring the clamp and thus the corner of the beach blanket or towel to the sand of the beach. The spike includes a locking mechanism for locking and unlocking the spike within the eyelet of the clamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1998
    Inventors: Scott Griffiths, Richard Davis
  • Patent number: 5819477
    Abstract: The apparatus can secure a building having a roof, with a plurality of lines and a plurality of ground anchors, which are planted around the building peripherally. The lines are adapted to be attached to the ground anchors and routed over the building. Netting material spans the lines at the roof. The apparatus may also have at least one cinch transversely spanning the lines at the roof of the building. At least one lashing may be directed transversely to the predetermined azimuthal direction and may be connected between one of the lines and one of the anchors. A plurality of tubular boots may separately encircle corresponding ones of the anchors for providing peripheral clearance around the anchors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1998
    Assignee: Hurricane Straps Inc.
    Inventor: George Gaffney
  • Patent number: 5809700
    Abstract: The ground engaging restraint device (2) comprises a ground spike (4) and a clasp (6). Comprising the clasp is a head (48), a pin (50) and a pair of arms (52) having teeth (64). The ground spike has a receiver (12) having a bore (20) and circumferential notches (24), an elongated shaft (16) having a ground-engaging stop (18). In one embodiment the shaft has a plurality of interconnected webs (36), and in another embodiment the shaft has a helical blade (72) fixed concentrically about the shaft. A portion of an article (14) is placed over and inserted into the bore by placing the clasp over the receiver, causing the pin to enter the bore and frictionally engage the article between the pin and the bore. Teeth of a pair of arms engage a plurality of notches (24) on the receiver, removably retaining the clasp on the receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1998
    Assignee: Anjowa, Inc.
    Inventors: Warren H. Roush, Anne F. Roush, Jo Ellen Bradley
  • Patent number: 5797226
    Abstract: A drive anchor (10) for use with a stabilizing foundation system of a manufactured home mounted upon piers includes an elongated rectilinear, C-shaped in cross section support bracket (12) that defines sets of offset holes (20 and 26, 24 and 30, and 22 and 28) that receive drive rods (31, 32, 33) which are driven through the holes and into the ground. The anchor can be installed in all densities of soil, including rock, by driving the rods through and between the rocks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1998
    Inventor: Charles J. MacKarvich
  • Patent number: 5775848
    Abstract: Anchoring devices for securing diverse types of structures to the earth or soil, or to rock walls and formations, such as are frequently employed for anchoring gas and petroleum-product pipelines, guy-supported towers, utility poles, large-sized retaining walls and building foundations, among numerous other types of application. In order to render each of the above-described anchoring devices more user-friendly and compatible with the environment, while facilitating the installation thereof in the applicable bore holes, drilled holes or earth trenches, while also reducing the production and assembling steps required in the manufacture of the various anchoring devices, a suitable retentive encompassing packaging structure tightly encases each of the anchoring devices which will maintain the components of the respective anchoring devices in their assembled pre-installed and retracted condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1998
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Willis J. Blankinship, Daniel V. Hamilton, Stephen W. Odneal
  • Patent number: 5775037
    Abstract: Ground anchors of the type which are attached to cables and rods and driven into the ground and tilted transversely by tensioning the cable. A ground anchor comprising a body portion having a generally triangular cross-section extending substantially along its length having generally concave sides and a continuous convex lower surface from one edge of the body portion where the sides and lower surface meet to an opposite edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1998
    Assignee: Platipus Anchors Limited
    Inventor: Charles Simon James
  • Patent number: 5765321
    Abstract: A ground engaging stake used to anchor and support equipment with respect to the soil includes an I-beam and a spring assembly which engages the I-beam. The I-beam includes a web plate and a pair of end plates which extend perpendicularly to the web plate at opposite edges thereof. A pair of guide plates are spaced from and parallel to a middle portion of the web plate. A pair of cams are mounted on each side of the web plate adjacent a bottom end thereof. The spring assembly includes a pair of spaced parallel springs rigidly attached to one another at a top thereof by a center stop. A pair of side stop blocks are attached to the top outer surface of each spring. Springs 32 extend between a slot formed between the guide plates and web plate of the I-beam. The spring is driven downwardly causing the springs to deflect against an angled top surface of each cam and bend slightly outwardly away from the I-beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1998
    Assignee: Barbco, Inc.
    Inventor: James S. Barbera
  • Patent number: 5740684
    Abstract: A security system for securing personal property at a beach including two augers is provided. A pair of augers (15,16,50,100) are screwed into the sand. A crossbar (11,102) placed in loops (13,14,56) on the exposed ends of the augers. The crossbar is locked to the augers so that the augers may not be unscrewed from the sand. Items of personal property (31,140) may then be locked to the security device formed by the augers and crossbar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1998
    Inventors: Thomas M. Sherlock, Eric W. Kramer
  • Patent number: 5732516
    Abstract: An improved anchor for a sign support includes a square tube having a plurality of holes along a center line on at least two opposing sides or all four sides. One end of the square tube has two points at opposing corners of the square tube and edges connecting the two points to the sides of the square tube to facilitate easier insertion of the anchor into the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1998
    Assignee: Western Highway Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven J. Ellsworth
  • Patent number: RE36550
    Abstract: An adjustable mounting for a post system for use in aligning and maintaining a post attached thereto to a desired vertical attitude to a ground surface. The adjustable mounting includes, as embodiments, a ball segment and seat combination that are movable with respect to one another, and in another embodiment involves a pair of interactive tapered washers, with the embodiments all including arrangements for clamping together the components that is a single bolt type fastener that is for maintaining the components of the adjustable mounting between a ground stake top surface, or ground surface, and a post bottom end or post insert base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2000
    Inventor: Ronald R. West