Erosion Protection Patents (Class 405/302.6)
-
Publication number: 20120177449Abstract: A method for controlling dust on a saline lakebed is disclosed comprising several methods such as a Brine Membrane method, an Interim method and a Springtime Conservation method. A Master method for determining which of the three methods to use under certain circumstances is described. Prospective application of the methods is for dry lakebeds, such as the Owens Lakebed in California.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 9, 2011Publication date: July 12, 2012Inventor: David P. Groeneveld
-
Publication number: 20120170982Abstract: A silt barrier comprises a plurality of filter elements, each filter element, in use, having a height direction, a width direction and a length direction and being adapted to allow the passage of water therethrough in the width direction and to resist the passage of silt therethrough in the width direction. In an embodiment the filter medium comprises a single type of material which combines: (a) filtration characteristics adequate to provide an effective silt barrier and; (b) deformation/resilience characteristics adequate to allow said filter element to return substantially to its original height after being compressed in its height direction by a vehicle passing thereover.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 3, 2010Publication date: July 5, 2012Applicant: BETA VISION PRODUCTS AUSTRALIA PTY LTDInventor: Salvatore Vasta
-
Patent number: 8210776Abstract: The invention relates to a method for improving the strength of a porous or permeable material. The invention particularly relates to a method comprising: contacting at least one type of calcification bacteria with a porous or permeable material; contacting the calcification bacteria with a calcification medium; said method or process further comprising: contact the calcification bacteria with an adhesion agent and the assimilation of the adhesion agent by the calcification bacteria. The invention can be used for reinforcing floors, in particular liquefiable floors, for the stabilization of slopes, for the calcification of non organic or organic substrates, and for the restoration or protection of a frontage.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2008Date of Patent: July 3, 2012Assignee: Soletanche FreyssinetInventors: Sabine Darson-Balleur, Olivier Girinsky
-
Publication number: 20120155972Abstract: Bedding material for livestock or Hydromulch for soil treatment is produced by extruding straw mixed with bio-char through a conventional cubing system. The cubing process generates friction in turn changing the properties of the straw making the straw particles highly absorbent while binding the bio-char and any dust into the mixture. The mixture can be used for bedding where the bio-char acts as an absorbent. The mixture can also be used in soil remediation by spreading over the soil in dry or Hydromulch where the bio-char acts to filter contaminants and can act as a binder for an fertilizer admixed into the mixture for seeding.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 16, 2012Publication date: June 21, 2012Inventors: Stephane Gauthier, Eugene Gala
-
Publication number: 20120128436Abstract: The present disclosure provides a disk for reducing scour around a pile, such as a monopole, installed in the seabed. The disk has a pile opening through which the pile protrudes. The disk includes a peripheral skirt for embedding into the seabed below the portion of the disk installed above the seabed. The disk can include partitions for segmenting chambers of the disk. The disk can include mesh on the top, bottom, or both surfaces with one or more fill bags installed in the chambers. The disk can include chambers that can be filled with fluidized fill material, such as grout or concrete. The fill material can be inserted into the fill bags through conduits with valves that can be remotely operated with an ROV. The fill material can also be injected below the disk using the conduits for support on the seabed.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 23, 2010Publication date: May 24, 2012Applicant: TECHNIP FRANCEInventor: Peter Graham HARRIS
-
Patent number: 8172486Abstract: An engineering-purpose netted vegetation blanket including a plurality of mesh units arrayed and interwoven into rows. The mesh units each have borders loop-knitted using threads to form a double-layer structure including an upper and a lower thread layer, and a plurality of curved threads that are so woven to locate between the upper and the lower thread layer and be sequentially arrayed and extended between two adjacent ones of the borders while protruding from a plane defined by the borders. The mesh units are so arrayed that the mesh units in any two adjacent rows are in staggered relation, such that a void is formed between any two adjacent mesh units.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 2009Date of Patent: May 8, 2012Assignee: Seven States Enterprise Co., Ltd.Inventor: Yi-Hui Wang
-
Publication number: 20120063854Abstract: A system for covering various types of ground where water and wind erosion protection are needed comprises a composite of at least one geotextile tufted or knitted with synthetic yarns (forming a synthetic turf), an open grid mesh, and a geo-filter (filter fabric). The filter fabric is positioned in direct contact with the ground surface, the open grid mesh is positioned over the filter fabric, and the synthetic turf is positioned over the open grid mesh. The system provides a beneficial erosion protection that does not require maintenance and can be used to cover slopes without requiring vegetative support and/or a topsoil layer. An optional sand layer can be placed atop the synthetic turf as desired as infill to ballast the material and protect the system against wind uplift.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 13, 2011Publication date: March 15, 2012Inventors: Michael AYERS, Jose URRUTIA
-
Patent number: 8127515Abstract: An assembly for inhibiting wind erosion including an anchorage structure, an erosion mat and a retaining member. The anchorage structure includes a downwardly facing base surface, an upwardly facing anchorage surface, and a rigid elongate member. The anchorage structure is supportable on its base surface with the elongate member in an upright position. The anchorage structure is disposed within a plant growing medium with the elongate member extending upwardly through the erosion mat. A retaining member is secured to the elongate member and engages the upwardly facing surface of the erosion mat to inhibit the removal of the erosion mat. The assembly can be used in a green roof system by placing a drainage layer on the roof and a filter fabric between the plant growing medium and the drainage layer. The anchorage structure is positioned above the filter fabric.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 2011Date of Patent: March 6, 2012Assignee: Green Roof Solutions, Inc.Inventor: Kurt Z. Horvath
-
Patent number: 8113739Abstract: A sand drift prevention method in which a plurality of columnar sandbags made of a tubular knit fabric are placed so as to cross over one another, and in such a pitch that 3 to 30 sandbags are disposed for every ten meters, and in which the cross-sectional area of each of the columnar sandbags is 10 to 400 cm2. A method of forming and improving the vegetation in sandy soil in which drift of sand is prevented by the sand drift prevention method, a plant desired to grow is grown in the sandy soil surface exposed as being surrounded by columnar sandbags placed so as to cross over one another. A tubular knit fabric for a columnar sandbag employed in these methods, and, in particular, the tubular knit fabric knitted by use of a polylactic-acid fiber.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 2008Date of Patent: February 14, 2012Assignees: Toray Industries, Inc., Mitsukawa & Co., Ltd.Inventors: Osamu Mito, Kazuya Matsumura, Koji Sasaki, Takenobu Okumura, Shigeto Matsumoto, Makoto Maeda
-
Publication number: 20120034039Abstract: Disclosed is a landscape erosion control unit for retaining landscaping materials that includes a base structure and a plurality of retention structures attached to the base structure. Each retention structure of the plurality of retention structures includes a strip and a plurality of protruding members extending outwardly from the strip. Each protruding member of the plurality of protruding members is configured to hold the landscaping materials. Each protruding member of the plurality of protruding members has a bottom portion extending from the strip, a top portion away from the strip, and an intermediate portion between the top portion and the bottom portion. Each retention structure is configured as an integral unit from a material by at least one of cutting and patterning the material. Further, disclosed are a retention structure and a method for fabricating the landscape erosion control unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 9, 2011Publication date: February 9, 2012Inventor: Victoria Lynn Hawkins-Maxwell
-
Patent number: 8100609Abstract: An apparatus and method for controlling water flow, soil erosion, and/or sediment flow in and around a construction site. The apparatus includes a three-dimensional, water-permeable polypropylene filled geotextile pocket that is secured to the ground with a supporting structure. The apparatus includes a tail portion that is placed flat against the ground, facing upstream against the direction of water flow. The tail portion can be secured with pins that provide protection against movement of the tail portion and reduce an amount of sediment passing under the apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2009Date of Patent: January 24, 2012Inventor: Ken Wilson
-
Patent number: 8092122Abstract: A connection device for fastening two expanded cellular confinement structures includes an insertion member having insertion ends, an insertion member extension, an integral shank, and a handle member. A cellular confinement system includes first and second webs of cells made from strips bonded together in spaced apart areas. The strips form walls of the cells and at least some of the cells define open slots. At least one connection device fastens the first web and the second web together through the open slots. A method of fastening two expanded cellular confinement structures includes aligning two expanded cellular confinement structures; inserting an insertion member of a connection device through open slots; and turning the connection device.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2008Date of Patent: January 10, 2012Assignee: Reynolds Consumer Products, Inc.Inventors: Daniel F. Senf, Kai Tietjen, Cory Schneider, William Handlos, Gary M. Bach
-
Patent number: 8083441Abstract: A hermetic load distributor mat is disclosed, for sealing soils that are unstable or have low bearing capacity, and for optimally distributing loads over such soil. The mats connect together to form a stable, hemetically-sealed floor. The joints between the mats have a flexible seal. The mats are assembled together empty, and then are filled with a fluid such as water, the weight of which stabilizes and stiffens the mat and favorably distributes external loads.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2010Date of Patent: December 27, 2011Inventor: Bruno Antonio Caracchini Garcia
-
Patent number: 8052348Abstract: An erosion control wall system is provided and methods of making it that protect a bank, beach or bluff from soil/sand erosion. The erosion control system includes a plurality of wall members, each formed to have a front face that dissipates and deflects the energy from oncoming waves and a rear face with a stabilizing member extending therefrom for securing the wall member in position along a bank or bluff, or in the water adjacent to a bank, bluff or beach for example. The wall sections are self-stabilizing by action of sand, gravel and/or stone flowing over the wall section and anchoring the stabilizing member. The erosion control wall sections may be constructed on-site using slip form construction methods.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2008Date of Patent: November 8, 2011Assignees: Miki LeonhartInventor: Wesley A. Mahan
-
Publication number: 20110229275Abstract: An erosion control device is placeable on a ground surface for serving as a barrier to the passage of soil past the control device. The control device includes a bag member that includes an upper member and a lower member that define a hollow pocket between the upper member and the lower member. A filler material is placed within the pocket member to impart a pillow-like shape to the bag member. The filler material is includes filler elements derived from shredded tires.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 11, 2011Publication date: September 22, 2011Inventors: Michael Winings, Steven Hahn
-
Publication number: 20110217128Abstract: Sediment control devices include a planar apertured threshold member, a planar apertured outflow member, and a planar filter member between the threshold and outflow members. The members lie in parallel planes, and there is substantially no hollow space between the threshold member and the outflow member.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 9, 2011Publication date: September 8, 2011Inventors: John H. McGinn, Vincent P. Morris
-
Patent number: 8011860Abstract: An earth anchor of the pivoting type having an essentially cylindrical body, a blind bore extending thereinto from a trailing axial end of the cylindrical body and a leading edge projecting from a leading end of the body, the leading edge being formed as a rounded surface adapted for penetration through reinforcement paths while minimizing severing of the strands of the mat.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2010Date of Patent: September 6, 2011Assignee: Foresight Products, LLCInventor: William G. Stahm
-
Publication number: 20110158753Abstract: At a location where unevenness 1000 is present, the condition of a seabed 200 is investigated in advance to examine the respective numbers of large filter units 51 and small filter units 52 to be used, and the position where the large filter units 51 and the small filter units 52 are to be installed. Based on the investigation result, the small filter units 52 are installed on the bottom of the unevenness 1000. The large filter units 51 are installed on the upper surface formed by the installed small filter units 52, and are leveled so that the upper surface formed by the installed large filter units 51 becomes flush with the seabed 200.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 28, 2010Publication date: June 30, 2011Applicants: Kyowa Co., Ltd., Sumitomo CorporationInventors: Takahito Ohkubo, Toshihiro Tanaka, Nobuyoshi Oike, Hironori Kawamura, Shinichi Tanaka, Ikuo Moriyama, Motoo Yoshioka
-
Patent number: 7966779Abstract: An assembly for inhibiting wind erosion including an anchorage structure, an erosion mat and a retaining member. The anchorage structure includes a downwardly facing base surface, an upwardly facing anchorage surface, and a rigid elongate member. The anchorage structure is supportable on its base surface with the elongate member in an upright position. The anchorage structure is disposed within a plant growing medium with the elongate member extending upwardly through the erosion mat. A retaining member is secured to the elongate member and engages the upwardly facing surface of the erosion mat to inhibit the removal of the erosion mat. The assembly can be used in a green roof system by placing a drainage layer on the roof and a filter fabric between the plant growing medium and the drainage layer. The anchorage structure is positioned above the filter fabric.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2005Date of Patent: June 28, 2011Assignee: Green Roof Solutions, Inc.Inventor: Kurt Z. Horvath
-
Patent number: 7955030Abstract: Sediment control devices (SCDs) include an apertured threshold member and an apertured outflow member, and optionally a filter member between the threshold and outflow members. In some SCDs1 the outflow member has a smaller aperture size than the threshold member, or vice versa. In some SCDs, a filter is placed in front of the threshold member. In some SCDs, there is a substantially hollow sediment control chamber (SCC) between the threshold and outflow members; in others, there is little or no hollow space between the threshold and outflow members. The SCDs can be constructed so that they are resistant to damage by wheeled traffic. The SCDs can be used to control sediment in run-off from a construction site, as drain covers, or as retaining members for lawns or planting areas. A number of SCDs can be joined together to form assemblies which are useful for stabilizing a land mass, for example a gully or river bank.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 2006Date of Patent: June 7, 2011Assignee: Ertec Environmental Systems LLCInventors: John H. McGinn, Vincent P. Morris
-
Patent number: 7950878Abstract: An erosion control system for reducing shoreline erosion resulting from wave action, runoff and hydrostatic pressure. The system includes a flexible geotextile provided over a shoreline. A plurality of rigid erosion control mats are provided over the flexible geotextile and secured in place by a plurality of anchors secured into the shoreline. The geotextile, erosion control mat and anchors may be adjusted to accommodate shorelines of varying slopes and susceptibility to erosion.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2010Date of Patent: May 31, 2011Assignee: Erosion Tech, LLCInventor: Thomas J. Carpenter
-
Patent number: 7922421Abstract: A bulk container and method suitable for forming an interlinked wall. In one embodiment, the bulk container may generally include sidewalls, lifting straps for transporting the container, and a closeable top. Linking loops may be provided on at least one sidewall which are each configured to be engaged by connecting members to link adjacent bulk containers together for forming an interlinked wall. In one embodiment, the connecting member is a belt which may be tensioned. Another possible embodiment includes a linking strap affixed to the sidewall panel and to which the linking loops may be attached or formed as an integral part thereof. A barrier wall system and method of forming the same from interlinked bulk containers is also provided. The barrier wall system is suitable for use in, but not limited to, shoreline erosion protection and flood control applications.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2005Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Urban Environmental Corp.Inventors: Jon McGillick, Sr., Jon J. McGillick, Jr., Melanie McGillick
-
Patent number: 7901160Abstract: An environmental barrier device includes a first member and a second member. The first member may be constructed of a first sheet material and may have a memory retaining shape. The first member may be oriented in a generally upright position and is resiliently deflectable from the generally upright position. The second member may be secured to the first member and may be constructed of a second sheet material, which may be flexible and may define a filter media. The filter media may allow the passage of water and preclude the passage of dirt and silt. The environmental barrier device includes a lower portion for positioning below ground level and an upper portion for positioning above ground level. The environmental barrier device may be driven over or otherwise deflected from a generally upright orientation and the first member may automatically return the environmental barrier device to the generally upright orientation.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 2008Date of Patent: March 8, 2011Assignee: Siltshield, LLCInventors: Mark D'Andreta, Stephen Mini
-
Patent number: 7891914Abstract: A geotextile tube is provided. The geotextile tube includes a first sheet and second sheet that both have first portions with a first weave pattern and second portions with a second weave pattern. The first portion of the first sheet covers a larger surface area than the second portion of the first sheet. Likewise, the first portion of the second sheet covers a larger surface area than the second portion of the second sheet. A seam contacts and attaches the second portion of the first sheet to the second portion of the second sheet.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2008Date of Patent: February 22, 2011Assignee: Flint Industries, Inc.Inventors: Joe Lamon Smallwood, William Alton Smallwood
-
Publication number: 20110002747Abstract: A turf reinforcement mat (10) comprises at least one polymer net layer (11); a non-woven mat (13) comprising a plurality of multi-dimensional polymer fibers (15); and, a polymer yarn (80, 81), stitching the net layer to the non-woven mat. A method for erosion control and revegetation facilitation comprises providing a turf reinforcement mat comprising at least one polymer net layer; a non-woven mat comprising a plurality of multi-dimensional polymer fibers; and, a polymer yarn, stitching the net layer to the non-woven mat; laying the turf reinforcement mat on a section of ground to be reinforced; securing the turf reinforcement mat to the ground; distributing soil and seed onto the turf reinforcement mat such that the section of ground is quickly revegetated and thereby protected from further erosion.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 13, 2010Publication date: January 6, 2011Inventors: Sidney M. Weiser, Patti Weaver, Warren Sickler
-
Patent number: 7862259Abstract: An anchor system for an erosion control surface. The system includes a resilient strap and a one-way retainer, which may be inserted utilizing a single operator and inexpensive tools. The resiliency of the system biases the erosion control surface into the ground and prevents undesired movement of the erosion control surface.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 2006Date of Patent: January 4, 2011Assignee: Erosion Tech, LLCInventor: Thomas J. Carpenter
-
Publication number: 20100296877Abstract: The cellular structure product in honeycomb form is made by assembling superposed bands of the same width. Two adjacent bands are attached to one another by a plurality of first series and second series of staples. Each of the cells of the product breaks down into two opposite portions belonging to two adjacent bands, these two portions being connected together at the edges of the cell by a first series and a second series of staples aligned according to the band width. The alignment of staples of each of the series can be done across the band width by a stapler fitted with an anvil holder offset laterally, after positioning of the anvil of the stapler under two adjacent bands. In the non-deployed product, each band is thus stapled alternately twice with a lower band and twice with an upper band.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 10, 2008Publication date: November 25, 2010Inventor: Yves Durkheim
-
Patent number: 7828499Abstract: An erosion control system for reducing erosion under effluent flow conditions. The system includes an erosion control mat anchored over an erosion susceptible area. The anchoring system uses an anchor positioned below the soil, connected to the mat by a flexible strap. Due to its high shear resistance, the system may be used in high effluent flow areas, such as drainage ditches and creeks.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2007Date of Patent: November 9, 2010Assignee: Erosion Tech, LLCInventor: Thomas J. Carpenter
-
Publication number: 20100278595Abstract: This disclosure relates to soil erosion and the establishment of an appropriate seed bed. More specifically, the disclosure relates to a composition applied to exposed soil wherein the composition comprises organic material produced when the methane is burned from green manure and dried. This organic material combines seed and a liquid carrier, such that the substance can be hydraulically applied to the desired area. Fertilizer or other nutrients are often added to the mixture to further enhance the product and to encourage growth.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 29, 2010Publication date: November 4, 2010Inventors: Dan Codd, Jim Hand
-
Patent number: 7820560Abstract: A turf reinforcement mat (10) comprises at least one polymer net layer (11); a non-woven mat (13) comprising a plurality of multi-dimensional polymer fibers (15); and, a polymer yarn (80, 81), stitching the net layer to the non-woven mat. A method for erosion control and revegetation facilitation comprises providing a turf reinforcement mat comprising at least one polymer net layer; a non-woven mat comprising a plurality of multi-dimensional polymer fibers; and, a polymer yarn, stitching the net layer to the non-woven mat; laying the turf reinforcement mat on a section of ground to be reinforced; securing the turf reinforcement mat to the ground; distributing soil and seed onto the turf reinforcement mat such that the section of ground is quickly revegetated and thereby protected from further erosion.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2003Date of Patent: October 26, 2010Assignee: Propex Operating Company LLCInventors: Sidney M Weiser, Patti Weaver, Warren Sickler
-
Patent number: 7815400Abstract: The present invention is directed to a retainer assembly for anchoring environmental containment and remediation materials in a desired location. The retainer assembly includes a buoyant retainer structure and an anchor assembly attached thereto. The anchor assembly defines the limits of motion of the retainer in three dimensions with respect to a selected anchor point and permits the anchor assembly to float within these limits. The anchor assembly also includes an attachment mechanism to secure the remediation materials to the retainer structure.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2008Date of Patent: October 19, 2010Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventor: Robert Louis DeAngelis
-
Patent number: 7811029Abstract: A soil stabilization system comprised of recent courses of soil bags woven and/or intertwined with geogrid and soil stabilization bodies pierce the soil stabilization bodies and protrusions on sides which protrude into the soil bags of the adjacent courses. Protrusions on the soil stabilization bodies shall protrude through holes in the geogrid to help anchor the soil bags relative to each other.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 2007Date of Patent: October 12, 2010Assignee: Agrecol, LLCInventors: William T. Graham, Mark Doudlah, William N. Isermann, Jay Settersten, Robert A Walker, Paul Collins
-
Patent number: 7811028Abstract: A check tube is sealed on one end and may be open on the opposite end. The check tube may have a cape, a flap and/or a hood attached to the check tube to, among other things, anchor the check tube and/or to prevent water flow, and thus erosion, between adjacent check tubes, beneath the check tube and/or downstream of the check tube. A temporary pocket defining a subset of the volume of the check tube is provided in the check tube and filled with fill material that expands after being introduced to water. Just prior to, during or after installation of the check tube, the pocket is opened, broken or dissolved and the check tube is introduced to water thereby allowing the fill material to expand to the full volume of the check tube.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2008Date of Patent: October 12, 2010Assignee: Agrecol, LLCInventors: Mary de la Rosa, William T. Graham, William N. Isermann, Mark Doudlah, Robert Walker, Paul Collins, Jay Settersten
-
Publication number: 20100239376Abstract: Technical Sector: Field of the construction and more specifically in reference to natural land or prepared with earthmoving machinery land cover. Description of the Invention: New type of floor (mat) for load distribution and sealing of unstable soils or low bearing capacity. Basically the idea is to convert the solids which are traditionally a floor for these applications in pressure vessels so as to gain the following advantages: During transport, the inner spaces are empty, representing a minimum weight. The installation is done with empty internal spaces, which allows easy handling. Once installed, the element is filled with a fluid, usually water, so that: Externally, her weight stabilizes it on the spot and, internally, enables the creation of pressures very favorably distribute the external load and yet it stiffen as to allow transmission of it to the floor in an extended area. It has flexible joints of a stamp on the periphery of each mat.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 17, 2010Publication date: September 23, 2010Inventor: Bruno Antonio Caracchini Garcia
-
Patent number: 7789594Abstract: An earth anchor of the pivoting type having an essentially cylindrical body, a blind bore extending thereinto from a trailing axial end of the cylindrical body and a leading edge projecting from a leading end of the body, the leading edge being formed as a rounded surface adapted for penetration through reinforcement paths while minimizing severing of the strands of the mat.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 2007Date of Patent: September 7, 2010Assignee: Foresight Products, LLCInventor: William G. Stahm
-
Publication number: 20100212560Abstract: The invention relates to a geomat for preventing erosion, for recultivating fallow land and for cultivating plants, said mat being completely biodegradable, cost-effective and simple to produce and fulfilling all ecological requirements. According to the invention, the geomat substantially consists of a continuous strand (1) of untreated sheep's wool, arranged in a serpentine to form the desired width of the mat and held together in a longitudinal direction.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 27, 2008Publication date: August 26, 2010Inventors: Jan Holland-Moritz, Raik Holland-Moritz
-
Patent number: 7762745Abstract: The present invention is a silt fence installer of unique design wherein the frame is angular rather than longitudinal and the fabric chute assembly is oriented parallel with the angular frame. This arrangement results in an installer with a generally perpendicular trailing edge, a fabric chute assembly with a closed leading edge and no need for hinged relationship between the sidewalls, and simple fabric threading with a single directional turn of the fabric. Further, the angular frame results in a shorter installer able to be more responsive to turns. In addition, the invention includes a sliding offset hitch wherein a silt fence installer may be adjusted laterally by hand due to strategic placement of rollers.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 2006Date of Patent: July 27, 2010Inventor: Aaron Burchland
-
Patent number: 7762746Abstract: A transportable and reusable silt fencing system for use at a construction site to prevent sediment and soil erosion comprises tension rods, a male section, a female section, and a fencing material having sleeve supports for the rods to slide in and support the fencing material. The tension rods are collapsible. The rods collapse when a truck drives over the fence, but re-assume their original form once the truck has passed. If a fence longer than the fencing section is required, additional fencing sections may be attached by connecting a male section of one fence section with the female section of another fence section.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2007Date of Patent: July 27, 2010Inventor: Gary Berenyi
-
Patent number: 7758285Abstract: A gooseneck frame is attached to the forward ends of a pair of lift arms which extend forwardly from a vehicle such as a skid steer vehicle with the forward end of the gooseneck frame being secured to the forward end of a silt fence installing machine so that the silt fence installing machine is pulled through the ground in advance of the vehicle. An improved coulter disk includes a cylindrical hub which limits the downward movement of the coulter disc with respect to the ground.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2008Date of Patent: July 20, 2010Inventor: John O'Dell
-
Publication number: 20100158617Abstract: An erosion control wall system is provided and methods of making it that protect a bank, beach or bluff from soil/sand erosion. The erosion control system includes a plurality of wall members, each formed to have a front face that dissipates and deflects the energy from oncoming waves and a rear face with a stabilizing member extending therefrom for securing the wall member in position along a bank or bluff, or in the water adjacent to a bank, bluff or beach for example. The wall sections are self-stabilizing by action of sand, gravel and/or stone flowing over the wall section and anchoring the stabilizing member. The erosion control wall sections may be constructed on-site using slip form construction methods.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 19, 2008Publication date: June 24, 2010Inventor: Wesley A. Mahan
-
Patent number: 7740042Abstract: The invention provides large surface area geogrids with a high tensile strength, a method and apparatus for producing them, and their use as drain and reinforcement grids and as fences. The method for the continuous production of geogrids which have a large surface area and comprise thermoplastic bars which cross one another and are joined together by welding at the areas where they cross one another is characterized in that single-layer, homogeneous, molecular-oriented plastic bars with a high tensile strength are used and a multiplicity of crossing areas arranged behind one another and next to one another are intermittently welded simultaneously using the vibration-welding technique. In this method, a newly developed vibration-welding apparatus is used, which is characterized in that it has at least one vibration device which can be used to weld at least 100 crossing areas, preferably up to 500 crossing areas, simultaneously.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 2007Date of Patent: June 22, 2010Assignee: Naue GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Georg Heerten, Volkhard Muller, Stephan Priewich, Werner Uehlemann
-
Patent number: 7736097Abstract: An environmental barrier device includes a first member and a second member. The first member may be constructed of a first sheet material. The first member may have a memory retaining shape. The first member may be normally oriented in a generally upright position and resiliently deflectable from the generally upright position. The second member may be secured to the first member. The second member may be constructed of a second sheet material. The second sheet material may be flexible and may define a filter media. The filter media may allow the passage of water and preclude the passage of dirt and silt. The environmental barrier device includes a lower portion for positioning below ground level and an upper portion for positioning above ground level. The environmental barrier device may be driven over or otherwise deflected from a generally upright orientation and the first member may automatically return the environmental barrier device to the generally upright orientation.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2006Date of Patent: June 15, 2010Assignee: M&D Environmental Barriers, LLPInventors: Mark D'Andreta, Stephen Mini
-
Patent number: 7708503Abstract: In at least certain embodiments of the present invention, the present invention provides a plastic netting for use in various erosion control netting assembles. In at least one embodiment, the assembly comprises a first extruded plastic net, a second extruded plastic net secured to the first net, and a fiber matrix disposed between the nets. In at least another embodiment, the assembly comprises a first extruded plastic net, and a fiber matrix secured to and/or under the netting. In at least another embodiment, the net serves as a mulch control netting when secured to the ground over a mulch material. In yet another embodiment, the net serves as a turf reinforcement. In at least one embodiment, the net comprises a plurality of openings sufficiently sized, to enable small animals to traverse or weave through the erosion control netting assembly without getting trapped in the openings.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 2007Date of Patent: May 4, 2010Assignee: Conwed Plastics LLCInventors: Bartley J. Kohel, Keith E. Misukanis, Christopher P. Hakanson
-
Publication number: 20100104379Abstract: Disclosed is a structure as a ‘blanket’ constituted by blocks preferably of concrete linked (in orthogonal directions) through chords, wires, strings made of materials resistant to strengths, and the chemical environment wherein it is placed, all in order to resist hydraulic actions. The blocks basically constitute a body formed by two truncated-conic linked by their bases and located (bonded) one beside the other in a same plane, allowing the blanket to intimately adapt to the shape of the underlying surface. This layout allows the blankets to pile up one upon the other, since the block hemi-bodies fit in the empty spaces of the blankets. This geometrical advantage allows the distribution of hydraulic forces in the three directions of space, where de layers behave as a sole flexible structure. This latter aspect is the fundamental innovation (vertical fitting), like the block geometry, with disposition thereof upon a resistant mesh (articulations).Type: ApplicationFiled: March 7, 2008Publication date: April 29, 2010Applicants: CONSEJO NACIONAL DE INVESTIGACIONES CIENTIFICAS Y, UNIVERSIDAD NACIONAL DE CORDOBA, INIS BIOTECH LLCInventors: Juan Carlos Amuchastegui, Andrés Rodriguez, Franco Matias Francisca, Carlos Marcelo Garcia Rodriguez
-
Patent number: 7695219Abstract: An erosion control system for reducing shoreline erosion resulting from wave action, run-off and hydrostatic pressure. The system includes a flexible geotextile provided over a shoreline. A plurality of rigid erosion control mats are provided over the flexible geotextile and secured in place by a plurality of anchors secured into the shoreline. The geotextile, erosion control mat and anchors may be adjusted to accommodate shorelines of varying slopes and susceptibility to erosion.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2008Date of Patent: April 13, 2010Assignee: Erosion Tech, LLCInventor: Thomas J. Carpenter
-
Publication number: 20100040420Abstract: A soil stabilisation and irrigation arrangement is proposed, comprising a useable area (10) and a water compensating device (22) disposed outside the useable area (10). The useable area (10) is formed from a basin (14) which is constructed as watertight and in which a drainage device (18) is arranged near the bottom, and which contains a footing (20); the water compensating device (22) is formed from a water receiving space (23) which is provided with a water inlet (24) and a water outlet (26) and which is in communication with the drainage device (18) of the useable area (10); and the useable area (10) further comprises an arrangement of soil stabilising mats (32) in the footing (20) above the drainage device (18), wherein the soil stabilising mats (32) are embodied as permeable to water.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 6, 2006Publication date: February 18, 2010Inventor: Werner Otto
-
Patent number: 7638445Abstract: This invention generally relates to the production of a composite yarn or non-woven strand wherein a core of super absorbent fibers or polymers (SAP's) having a swell factor of approximately 25% and greater are encapsulated by a nonwoven membrane of defined porosity. The membrane is then sealed in a fashion to generally deter or prevent the SAP material from migrating out of the core as water is freely absorbed and desorbed from the composite yarn structure. The strands of yarns or strips of non-woven material are subsequently constructed into an open or unorientated fabric formation. When used as a subterranean fabric, structure or material, the resultant fabric structure retains moisture while permitting normal root growth and allowing excess water to pass through and beneath the fabric while facilitating movement of water from lower levels to the surface.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2007Date of Patent: December 29, 2009Inventor: Gilbert Patrick
-
Patent number: 7632039Abstract: In accordance with at least one methodology of the present disclosure, an excavating machine (e.g., excavator, backhoe, bulldozer, etc.) moves an excavating apparatus (e.g., a bucket, blade, etc.) such that the excavating apparatus skims the underwater surface of a beach close to the shoreline to gather sand thereby forming a shallow trench in such surface. The depth of trench is small so that the effects of the sand removal to the contour of the beach is quickly compensated by the wave action of the ocean. Although the depth of the removed layer of sand is small, a significant amount of sand can be gathered by continuing the skimming operation over a much longer horizontal distance relative to the vertical depth of the removed sand. Moreover, by repeating the skimming operation along a shoreline, large amounts of sand can be gathered from the underwater surface of a beach close to the shoreline without a significant prolonged impact to the beach's underwater surface contour.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2006Date of Patent: December 15, 2009Inventor: Frank L. Patterson
-
Publication number: 20090257827Abstract: An apparatus and method for controlling water flow, soil erosion, and/or sediment flow in and around a construction site. The apparatus includes a three-dimensional, water-permeable polypropylene filled geotextile pocket that is secured to the ground with a supporting structure. The apparatus includes a tail portion that is placed flat against the ground, facing upstream against the direction of water flow. The tail portion can be secured with pins that provide protection against movement of the tail portion and reduce an amount of sediment passing under the apparatus.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 11, 2009Publication date: October 15, 2009Inventor: Ken Wilson
-
Patent number: RE42680Abstract: An improved method and apparatus for constructing a soil reinforced earthen retaining wall wherein successive soil reinforcing mats embedded within an earthen formation have bent-up face elements which are slidably engaged to enable the earthen formation to settle without bulging the face elements. Backing mats are disposed behind the face elements for movement relative thereto in generally vertical planes. The backing mats serve to support the successive soil reinforcing mats and permit the mats to more toward one another to accommodate settling of the formation without bulging of the face elements.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2004Date of Patent: September 6, 2011Assignee: Hilfiker Pipe CompanyInventors: Harold K. Hilfiker, William B. Hilfiker