Cutting tool adapter and method of underpinning structures using cutting tool adapter for soil mixing
AssigneeSchnabel Foundation Company
InventorsMatthew J. Niermann, Walter W. Trail, Jr.
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A cutting tool adapter for creating an underpinning structure and method of creating the underpinning structure are provided. In some examples, the cutting tool adapter may connect a cutting tool to a working machine arm to enable the cutting tool to cut and dislodge soil below an existing foundation or structure. As the soil is cut and dislodged, it is mechanically mixed with an additive, such as a cementitious material, via the cutting tool. The mixed soil and additive may then harden in the area below the existing structure or foundation to create an underpinning structure to provide additional support for the existing structure or foundation.
Claims21
A method of underpinning an existing structure, comprising:
- creating an approach pit in an area adjacent to soil below the existing structure;
- inserting a mechanical cutting tool into the approach pit, the mechanical cutting tool including at least a rotatable drum and plurality of cutting blades attached thereto and inserting the mechanical cutting tool into the approach pit including rotating the mechanical cutting tool about a first axis of rotation to a substantially horizontal position, wherein the first axis of rotation is located between the mechanical cutting tool and an arm of a working machine;
- cutting and dislodging soil below the existing structure by rotating the drum and plurality of cutting blades relative to a remaining portion of the cutting tool and about a second axis of rotation different from the first axis of rotation;
- introducing an additive to the soil below the existing structure;
- using the mechanical cutting tool, mixing the soil and the additive in an area below the existing structure;
- and
- allowing the mixed soil and additive to harden forming an underpinning structure below the existing structure.
A method of underpinning an existing structure, comprising:
- creating an approach pit in an area adjacent to soil below the existing structure with a mechanical cutting tool, the mechanical cutting tool including at least a drum and plurality of cutting blades attached thereto;
- rotating the mechanical cutting tool to a substantially horizontal position, rotating the mechanical cutting tool including rotating the drum and plurality of cutting blades;
- cutting and dislodging soil below the existing structure by rotating the drum and plurality of cutting blades relative to a remaining portion of the cutting tool;
- introducing an additive to the soil;
- using the mechanical cutting tool, mixing the soil and the additive in an area below the existing structure;
- and
- allowing the mixed soil and additive to harden forming an underpinning structure below the existing structure.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.