AN ADJUSTMENT DEVICE AND METHOD FOR A FOUNDATION

Abstract

 The present disclosure is a device and a method for the adjustment of the position between a pile or other types of foundations and the item to be anchored to the foundation. Adjustments can be made for translation, rotational angle, and cant angle. This is especially beneficial for applications where the foundations need to line up; such as for fence work, and light poles.
The invention uses an interface plate (4) that is attached to a foundation (1) by an interface connector (8). One or more locking devices (5) are located inside passages in the interface plate (4) and able to rotate freely. Risers (10) and sloped risers (101) inserted between the interface plate (4) and the rotation base (71) allow for cant angle and height adjustment. The rotational angle adjustment is provided by a freely rotatable base (71) that is locked in position on use by bolts through an upper plate (6) and into the interface plate (4).

Description

THE FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an adjustment device for a foundation comprised of:

(a) an interface connector comprised of a top and bottom surfaces; and

(b) an interface plate comprised of a top and a bottom surface, one or more locking passages parallel to the surfaces' interface plate, and one or more interface plate grooves perpendicular to the top and bottom surfaces of the interface plate ; and

(c) a locking device with one or more receiving holes ; and

(d) a post rotation base comprised of a top and bottom surface; and

(e) a post connection unit comprised of a top and bottom side; and

(f) an upper plate comprised of a top surface, bottom surface, one or more upper plate grooves perpendicular to the surfaces of the upper plate, and a post rotation base hole ; and

(g) a plurality of bolts.

[0002] The present invention also relates to a method of adjusting the position of the post connection unit of the adjustment device in accordance with the present invention.

[0003] The present invention further relates to a foundation adjustment system.

[0004] The present invention also relates to the use of the adjustment device for a foundation in accordance with the present invention.

[0005] The present invention thus concerns a foundation and, more particularly, a device for the adjustment of lateral position, height, rotational angle, and cant at the junction between a foundation and support pole; along with associated methods, systems, and uses.

BACKGROUND

[0006] The anchoring of posts in earthen ground is used in a wide range of applications. A few, of the many, possible examples include: guardrails, fencings, lamp posts and poles for supporting power lines. To avoid having to dig holes and fill them with concrete around an inserted post or pole, it is often cheaper and easier to simply drive a foundation directly into the dirt, asphalt, etc.

[0007] A pile, typically a hollow tube, is driven into the ground surface with a hydraulic hammer. This is done until the top of the pile is entirely (or almost entirely) level with the ground. Usually the pile will have fins attached to it in order to increase the stability of the system against movement. The combination of fins and a pile is one of the most common types of foundations used for installations that do not involve digging a hole.

[0008] In order to install a support post or pole, some sort of interface is needed between the top of the foundation and the bottom of the support.

TECHNICAL PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED

[0009] As mentioned previously, an interface is required between the top of the foundation and the bottom of the support. Two common types of interfaces are show in FIGs. 1A and 1B. Both of these leave a gap between the top and bottom plate of the interface.

[0010] Uneven ground makes it close to impossible to get the alignment perfect during the foundation's installation. For some cases, such as the installation of a single support post, simply being able to level the post is enough. In other cases, such as installing a row of supports for a fence, for example, adjustments will not only be needed for height, but translational position, cant, and the rotational angle of the post itself.

[0011] There are several inventions that have attempted to address these issues. Some relevant background information can be found in EP 1613821 B1, US 8568055 B2 US 5957424 A, NO 325205 B1, NO 324580 B1, US 6540196 B1, US 20100272505 A1, US 6273390 B1, and US 20110248143 A1. The two most relevant for the present invention are patents EP 1613821 B1 and US 8568055 B2. FIGs 1A and 1 B show the invention from EP 1613821 B1. FIGs 1C, 1D, and 1E show the invention from US 8568055 B2.

[0012] Both of these use two plates. The lower plate is attached the top of the foundation and the upper plate is attached to the bottom of the support post or pole. The two plates are then fastened together. The different ways that these inventions are fastened allows for different types and methods of adjustments.

[0013] EP 1613821 B1 uses a center bolt to adjust the rotation of the attached support post. US 8568055 B2 uses a disc with grooves in it to adjust this rotational angle. Both of these inventions have a relatively small degree of rotational freedom.

[0014] The distance between the two plates is adjusted in both EP 1613821 B1 and US 8568055 B2 using a combination of bolts and nuts. US 8568055 B2 uses these bolts and nuts to adjust the cant angle between the two plates as well. This can put considerable force on the bolt, because it is not able to be at any other angle than roughly perpendicular to the plates. Another problem is that the nuts themselves will make poor contact with the plates when adjusting for the desired cant angle. These methods of adjustments leave an air gap in between the upper plate and the interface plate.

[0015] US 8568055 B2 has no possible movement in the plane parallel to the ground (translational movement), while EP 1613821 B1 has translational adjustment in only a single direction.

[0016] When installing a large number of posts or poles, it is not the insertion of the foundations into the ground that is the most time consuming. It is the installation of the interface and making the necessary adjustments to get the three dimensional position correct.

[0017] A concern is safety. These interfaces are can be under a considerable load. This is not normally a concern when the system is not under any forces. But because of the air gap between the interface plate and the upper plate, the interface is inherently weak. Wind can put considerable force upon the interface device. Impact on the support pole or post, particularly in a collision, can easily cause deformation of the interface device. In the worst case, it will rip the interface out of the foundation. Even without a dramatic impact incident, the day to day movement of the system will create wear and tear on the device.

[0018] There is therefor a need for an interface device that can be set up and quickly adjusted to a wide range of positions. This includes translational adjustments. Additionally, an adjustment of cant angles that does not cause undue stress on the bolts and poor connection to the plates is desired. There is also a need for an interface that withstands more forces, and lasts longer, than currently available options.

SHORT SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0019] Thus the adjustment device of the present invention is described by:

the bottom surface of the interface plate is attached to the top surface of the interface connector;

the locking device is located inside the locking passages in the interface plate; the receiving holes in the locking device are aligned roughly with the interface plate grooves;

the bottom surface of the post rotation base moveably rests upon the top surface of the interface plate; the bottom side of the post connection unit is connected to the top surface of the post rotation base; both the post connection unit and the post rotation base are aligned generally along the same axial axis;

the bottom surface of the upper plate rests upon the top surface of the interface plate; the post rotation base is located inside the post rotation base hole;

the upper plate and the interface plate are connected together through the bolt passing through the upper plate groove and the interface plate groove, and into the receiving hole in the locking device.

[0020] In accordance with a first aspect of the adjustment device, the interface plate is comprised of:

(a) an interface plate middle comprised of a left side and a right side that are located roughly perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the adjustment device; and one or locking passages roughly parallel to the left and right sides of the interface plate middle;

(b) a first and a second interface plate side each comprised of a left and a right side; with one or more interface plate side grooves that are roughly perpendicular to the left and right interface plate sides and which line up one or more of the locking passages in the interface plate middle; with one or more interface plate top grooves which are roughly parallel to the left and right interface plate sides;

wherein:

the left side of the interface plate middle is removably attached to the right side of the first interface plate connector;

the right side of the interface plate middle is removably attached to the left side of the second interface plate connector;

the locking passages in the interface middle plate align with the interface plate side grooves to form a passage for the locking device.

[0021] In accordance with a second aspect of the adjustment device the upper plate is fixedly connected to the rotation base.

[0022] In accordance with a third aspect of the adjustment device one or more risers are inserted between the top surface of the interface plate and the bottom surface of the upper plate, more preferably one or more of the sloped risers has an independent angle of inclination of between 0,5° and 60°, preferably between 2° and 20°, as measured when the sloped riser is placed upon a level surface.

[0023] In accordance with a forth aspect of the adjustment device of the present invention one or more components are made of a composite material, preferably reinforced plastics.

[0024] Thus the method of the present invention comprises the following steps:

(a) loosening or removing the connection between the upper plate and the interface plate;

further comprising one or more of the following steps:

(b) adjusting the translational position by moving the upper plate with respect to the lower plate by using the upper plate grooves;

(c) adjusting the translational position by moving the upper plate with respect to the lower plate using the interface plate grooves;

(d) adjusting the rotational angle by rotating the post connection unit;

(e) adjusting the height position by performing one or more of the following steps:

(i). inserting one or more risers underneath the post rotation base; between the upper plate and the interface plate;

(ii). adjusting the height of the interface plate sides to the same height;

(f) adjusting the cant in one or more directions, by performing one or more of the following steps:

(iii). inserting one or more sloped risers underneath the post rotation base; between the upper plate and the interface plate;

(iv). changing the height difference between each of the interface plate sides;

then performing the following step:

(g) reestablishing the connection between the upper plate and the interface plate.

[0025] Thus the foundation adjustment system of the present invention is described by the following:

(a) a foundation;

(b) an interface connector;

(c) the device of the present invention in accordance with any of claims 1 to 8;

(d) post connection unit.

[0026] Thus use of the adjustment device of the present invention is for the adjustment of the rotational angle, translational position, height, and/or cant of the post connection unit.

PURPOSES AND ADVANTAGES OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

[0027] The foundation interface device in accordance with the present invention is developed for adjustment of the translational position, height, and cant between a foundation and a support post. Additionally, it also allows the adjustment of the rotation angle of the attached support post. The present invention has several advantages over previous solutions to the technical problems discussed previously.

[0028] The present invention does not use a plurality of nuts to make height adjustments between the upper plate and the interface plates. Instead, risers are inserted between the plates when adjusting height. This is a much faster process than fiddling with numerous nuts. Additionally, there is no air gap on four thin bolts. This gives the interface device much more strength against applied forces. There is also less wear on the device, because it can not move as easily during normal operation.

[0029] In a similar manner, the cant angle is adjusted using sloped risers. Not only is this much faster than the process of trying to adjust cant using four systems of bolts and nuts, it also does not leave an air gap. In addition, the fastening between the interface plate and the upper plate is much better in the present invention. The rods that are inside the interface plate are able to freely rotate in their holes. That means that the bolt can be angled when the cant angle needs to be adjusted. This leads to less force on the bolt, partly because it engages at less of an angle, and a better connection between the fastener and the plates.

[0030] With the present invention it is very easy to adjust the rotational position. The fastening between the plates is loosened or removed, the pole or post rotated to the desired angle, and the plates are fastened back together. This is a much faster and easier method than previous solutions.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0031] 

FIG. 1A

discloses an isometric view of a common adjustment device.

FIG. 1B

discloses an isometric view of another common adjustment device.

FIG. 1C

discloses a front view of a common rotational adjustment device.

FIG. 1D

discloses a front view of a common elevation adjustment device.

FIG. 1E

discloses a front view of a common cant adjustment device.

FIG. 2

discloses an isometric view of an embodiment of the present invention

FIG. 3A

discloses an exploded isometric view of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3B

discloses an exploded isometric view of an alternate embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4A

discloses cross sectional front view of the present invention.

FIG. 4B

discloses an isometric cross sectional view of the present invention.

FIG. 5A

discloses an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5B

discloses a front cross sectional view of an alternate embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6

discloses an isometric cross sectional view of the inside of the present invention.

FIG. 7

discloses a transparent isometric view of interface plate and the upper plate of the present invention.

FIG. 8A

discloses a side view of the present invention in a use position.

FIG. 8B

discloses a side view of the present invention in a use position.

FIG. 8C

discloses a side view of the present invention in a use position.

FIG. 8D

discloses a side view of an alternate embodiment disclosed in FIG. 3B

FIG. 9A

discloses a top view of the present invention.

FIG. 9B

discloses a top view of the present invention.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS USED:

[0032] 

1

Foundation

2

Pile

21

Pile Top

3

Fin

4

Interface Plate

41

Interface Plate Groove

42

Interface Plate Middle

43(a,b)

Interface Plate Side

431 (a,b)

Interface Plate Side Grooves

432(a,b)

Interface Plate Top Grooves

5

Locking Device

50

Bolt

51

Nut

52

Washer

53

Interface Fastening Aid

54

Receiving Hole

55

Locking Passage

6

Upper Plate

61

Upper Plate Grooves

62

Post Rotation Base Hole

7

Post Connection Unit

71

Post Rotation Base

8

Interface Connector

82

Interface Connector Middle

83(a,b)

Interface Connector Side

10

Riser

101

Sloped Riser

11

Support Post

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0033] Using the attached drawings, the technical contents, and detailed descriptions, the present invention is described. Alternate embodiments will also be presented.

[0034] Reference is made to FIGs 1A and 1B. These disclose an isometric view of two very common adjustment devices for use with a foundation. Both of these figures show an interface plate 4 that contains through holes in the center and at each of the corners. Additionally there is an interface plate groove 41 in the center of the interface plate 4 giving additional attachment strength, translational adjustment (adjustment of the device from front to back, and side to side), and rotational adjustment, and attaches the device to the top of the pile 21. A bolt 50 is inserted through the corner holes of the interface plate 4. Nuts 51 and washers 52 are fitted onto the bolt 50 to attach the interface plate 4 to the top of the upper plate 6 (not shown).

[0035] Reference is made to FIGs 1C, 1D, and 1E. These figures disclose front views of common methods of adjusting rotation, elevation, and cant of a support post 11 (not shown) with respect to the interface plate 4 that is attached to the pile top 21 (not shown) of a foundation 1 (not shown). Rotational adjustment is obtained through the circular grooves 41 in the interface plate 4. The nut 51 is loosed from the bolt 50. The interface plate 4 can then be rotated through a fixed range of angles.

[0036] Elevation adjustment is performed through four or more nuts 51 on a single bolt 50 located at the corners of the interface plate 4 and the upper plate 6. One nut 51 is affixed to the bolt 50 below the upper plate 6, with another affixed above the upper plate on the same bolt 50. A further set of nuts 51 is affixed in the same way, to the same bolt 50, above and below the interface plate 4. To adjust the cant angle, the nuts 51 are lowered such that one or more corners of the upper plate 6 are lowered. Both of these adjustments result in an air gap between the upper plate 6 and the interface plate 4.

[0037] Reference is made to FIG. 2. This discloses an isometric view of an embodiment of the present invention. It is shown in the engaged position. A pile 2 has fins 3 attached to it. The pile 2 is attached to the present invention by the interface connector 8. The bottom part of the interface plate 4 is attached to the top part of the interface connector 8. A through hole henceforth referred to as a locking passage 55 (not shown), passes through the interface plate 4 and a locking device 5 is inserted into this hole. An interface fastening aid 53 is used to fasten the upper plate 6 to the interface plate 4. The rotation base 71 is located in between the upper plate 6 and the interface plate 4. The fastening of these two holds the rotational base 71 in a fixed position.

[0038] A post connection unit 7 is connected to the post rotation base 71. The locking device 5 is arranged so that it can rotate within the hole in the interface plate 4. The rotation of the locking device 5 allows for it to approximately match the incoming approach angle from the interface fastening aid 53; insuring a secure fit. This approach angle will change as the angle between the upper plate 6 and interface plate 4 changes. The rotation of the locking device 5 could be accomplished through the use of tools, or through the processes of using the interface fastening aid 53.

[0039] The interface fastening aid 53 is shown as a combination of a bolt, washer, and nut. But one skilled in the art would be able to use other means for such an attachment. Examples could include a fastening means that had a wide enough head to secure the two plates together without falling through their grooves. An embodiment of the present invention uses a threaded interface fastening aid 53 that threads into the threaded receiving holes 54 (not shown) in the locking device 5. There are other methods of making this connection that are possible. For example, a bolt that expands as it is tightened could be used for the interface fasting apparatus 53.

[0040] While FIG. 2 shows an embodiment of the present invention, it is not the only embodiment possible. The shape of both the interface plate 4 and the upper plate 6 could be other shapes than square. Suitable shapes would include, but are not limited to: round, rectangular, triangular, or other geometric shapes. The exact shape that would work best would depend on the shape of the interface connector 8. These would be determined by the application requirements and the type of foundation used.

[0041] FIG. 2 shows the preferred embodiment of the locking device 5 as a cylindrical shape. This allows for the locking device to rotate freely in its hole due to its circular cross section; thereby giving great flexibility in terms of the angle between the interface plate 4 and the upper plate 6. It is possible, however, to choose other shapes that may limit this angle. These forms would include triangular, square, rectangular, pentagons, hexagons, and other higher order polygons. The locking passage 55 (not shown) the interface plate 4 would be adjusted to fit the shape of the locking device 5.

[0042] Even though FIG. 2 shows that the locking device 5 being inserted into a smooth locking passage 55 (not shown), this is not a requirement. The locking could be textured if a higher friction environment was needed. Conversely, the locking passage 55 (not shown) could contain bearings, lubricant, lubricant reservoirs, or other parts to lower the friction and make it easier for the locking device 5 to rotate.

[0043] The preferred embodiment has two locking passages 55 (not shown) in the interface plate 4, but three or more holes and locking devices 5 could also be used if it was deemed that more attachment points were needed between the upper plate 6 and the interface plate 4; an example could be, but is not limited to, a need for additional strength provided by three or more locking device 5. It is also possible that the locking device 5 does not have a receiving hole 54. Instead it could simply have a divot, have threading but not a through hole, or other means to hold the front of a bolt in place.

[0044] The present invention places no limitation on the shape of the pile 2 or the top of the pile 21. One skilled in the art can easily adjust the shape of the interface connector 8 to suit the required needs.

[0045] Reference is made to FIG. 3A. This discloses an exploded isometric view of an embodiment of the present invention. This is the same as disclosed as FIG. 2. The fins 3 and pile 2 of FIG. 2 together form the foundation 1 of the other figures. To this foundation 1, an interface connector 8 is attached. This is connected to the bottom side of the interface plate 4. Locking devices 5 are inserted in locking passages 55 in the interface plate 4. The locking device 5 has receiving holes 54 to accept the end of the interface fastening aid 53. These receiving holes 54 are through holes in the locking device 5.

[0046] As in FIG. 2 the post rotation base 71 is placed, but not fastened in a fixed manner, on top of the interface plate 4. A post connection unit 7 is attached to the top of the post rotation base 71. Over the post connection unit 7 and the post rotation base is placed, but not affixed to, the upper plate 6. There are upper plate grooves 61 through the upper plate 6 and interface plate grooves 41 through the interface plate 4, respectively. These grooves allow for translational adjustment of the position of the post rotation base 71 and the upper plate 6. The interface fastening aid 53 passes through these grooves 61 and 41.

[0047] In FIG. 3A, the post rotation base 71 is shown as a cone frustum. Other smooth sided shapes could also be used. Examples include, but are not limited to, a torus, hemisphere, or cylinder. The upper plate 6 has a post rotation base hole 62 that is arranged such that the post rotation base 71 can be rotated when the post connection unit 7 angle needs changed. It is also arranged such that the post rotation base 71 does not move when the invention is in use. Another embodiment would use a post rotation base 71 that was a prism. Examples include, but are not limited to triangular, cube, pentagonal, hexagonal, and heptagonal. While this would mean that the post connection unit could not be rotated freely, it would be useful if a fixed rotational angle was needed.

[0048] In FIG. 3A, the shape of the interface connector 8 is that of a square pyramid frustum. This is an acceptable shape for attachment to the foundation 1 in a number of shapes; for example, but not limited to, circular or square pile ends. But it is conceivable that there will be situations where a cone frustum, pyramid (of different number of polygonal) frustum, or cylinders, or other shapes would be preferable to fit the shape of the foundation 1 and pile top 21. There are many other kinds of shapes that would be acceptable for the interface connector 8. These include, but are not limited to a cone, cylinder, or polygonal prism truncated. The interface connector 8 is shown hollow, but an alternative embodiment could be to use a solid piece instead. This may be favorable due to, for example, increased strength or decreased manufacture time. For similar reasons, the interface plate 4 could be a solid piece as well.

[0049] The interface connector 8 can be connected to the pile top 2 using a number of different methods. Examples include, but are not limited to, welding, clamps, expansion, friction, threads, and other apparatus to securely hold two different pieces together.

[0050] The preferred embodiment of the present invention is that the interface plate 4 and the interface connector 8 is in fact that the two components are connected by manufacture as a single piece. These two components could in fact be separate and connected together by a suitable means including welding, gluing, bolts, and other means of joining two pieces together.

[0051] While the preferred embodiment of the present invention is that the post rotation base 71 can rotate freely in the upper plate 6, before it is fixed in place, it is possible that the post rotation base 71 and the upper plate 6 are in fact connected in a fixed manner. This could include welds, bolts, or other manner appropriate for connected to materials together.

[0052] Reference is made to FIG. 3B. This discloses an exploded isometric view of an alternate embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the interface plate 4 and the interface connector 8 of FIG. 2 and FIG. 3A has been split into three components. The interface plate middle 42 has two locking passages 55 (not shown) perpendicular though the side of it: into which the locking device 5 is inserted. The interface plate middle 42 is moveably connected to two interface plate sides 43(a,b). This is achieved by aligning the through holes, henceforth referred to as the interface plate side grooves 431(a,b) of both interface plate sides 43(a,b) such that they form a linear cavity. A locking device 5 is inserted into this cavity and bolts or other fastening means are used to lock the interface plate sides 43(a,b) in place. The interface plate top grooves 432(a,b) are arranged such that they form a passage with the upper plate grooves 61 (not shown) of the upper plate 6 (not shown). Into this passage a bolt 50 is inserted. This bolt enters the receiving holes 54 of the locking device 5 and helps holding this embodiment of the invention together. A discussion of how this embodiment functions is given when describing FIG. 8D.

[0053] FIG. 3B shows that the interface connector 8 of FIG. 2 has been divided into 3 parts: Interface connector middle 82, and two interface connector sides 83(a,b). The top of the interface middle 82 is connected to the bottom of the interface plate middle 8. The top of the interface connector sides 83(a,b) is connected to the bottom of the corresponding interface plate side 43(a,b). In this way, when the interface plate sides 43(a,b) are brought toward the interface plate middle 42, the interface connector sides 83(a,b) are also brought toward the interface connector middle 82.

[0054] There are other embodiments of this split interface connect (82, 83a, and 83b). An alternate embodiment would omit the interface connector sides 83(a,b) entirely and use only the interface connector middle 82.

[0055] Both the interface plate top grooves 432(a,b) and interface plate side grooves 431(a,b) are shown as straight. But an alternate embodiment could use curves to give a wider range of motion for the system as the locking device 5 would have a wider range of motion.

[0056] For any embodiment of the present invention, it would be possible to divide the locking device 5 into two or more parts. This could be fixed inside either side of the interface plate, but still able to rotate. For example, the locking device 5 is inserted into a sleeve with an expansion means so it can't be removed, and then this is inserted into the locking passage 55. Another method to do this would be to make the end of the locking device 5 larger than the width of the locking passage 55. This larger end could fit into a larger cavity inside the interface plate 4.

[0057] While FIG. 3B shows the interface plate 4 and the interface connector 8 split into 3 parts, there are other possible configurations. It would be possible to split these into any number of parts instead. The most likely of these other embodiments would be by splitting it into two parts.

[0058] Reference is made to FIGs 4A and 4B. These disclose a cross sectional front view and an isometric cross section view of the present invention. The inside of the interface connector 8 is attached to the pile top 2. The bottom of the interface plate 4 is connected to the bottom of the interface connector 8.

[0059] The top of the interface plate 4 is connected to the bottom of the upper plate 6, by an interface fastening aid 53. There are locking passages 55 (not shown) in the interface plate 4 into which locking devices 5 are inserted. The post connection unit 7 is connected to the post rotation base 71 (not shown) which is placed between the top of the interface connection plate 4 and under the bottom the upper plate 6.

[0060] The present invention can be made out of number of different materials. The material should be strong, relatively light, and able to withstand different forces. But other materials can be used if cost or requirements demand it. A preferable embodiment for materials would be aluminum and steel, due to their strength and price. Composites are even more preferable, due to their properties of flexibility and resistance to forces from different directions. Other common materials are wood and concrete. The present invention could also be made of combinations of the previously discussed materials. Additionally, the thickness of the components of the present invention could be adjusted by one skilled in the art to meet application requirements.

[0061] A composite material is commonly understood to be a material made from two or more constituent materials with significantly different physical or chemical properties that, when combined, produce a material with characteristics different from the individual components. The individual components remain separate and distinct within the finished structure. The new material may be preferred for many reasons: common examples include materials which are stronger, lighter, or less expensive when compared to traditional materials.

[0062] Reinforced plastics are a recent class of composite materials in which the low modulus and temperature limitations of plastic is overcome by reinforcing it with fibers of high modulus.

[0063] Reinforced plastics find extensive use in many fields, such as automobiles and corrosion-resistant equipment like fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) tanks, vessels, etc.

[0064] Reinforced plastics, also known as polymer-matrix composite (PMC) and fiber reinforced plastics (FRP), consist of fibers (the discontinuous or dispersed, phase) in a polymer matrix (the composition phase). These fibers are strong and stiff and they have high specific strength (strength-to-weight ratio) and specific stiffness (stiffness-to-weight ratio). In addition, reinforced-plastic structures have improved fatigue resistance, greater toughness and higher creep resistance than similar structures made from steel. The preferred embodiment of the present invention uses reinforced plastics for some or all of the components.

[0065] Reference is made to FIG. 5A and 5B. These figures disclose different cross sectional views of two alternate embodiments of the present invention. The top part of the interface connector 8 is connected to the underside of the interface plate 4. Locking devices 5 are inserted into locking passage 55 (not shown in 5B) in the interface plate 4. Two risers 10 are placed on the top surface of the interface plate. An interface fastening aid 53 is used to fasten the upper plate 6 in a manner that holds the post rotation base 71 in a fixed position. The bottom of the post connection unit 7 is connected to the top of the post rotation base 71. A support post 11 is connected to the post connection unit 7 above the top of the post rotation base 71.

[0066] While FIG. 5A shows flat risers 10, FIG. 5B shows a sloped riser 101. Additionally FIG. 5A shows two risers 10, this is for illustration purposes only. One or more risers 10 can be used. One of the functions of the risers 10 is to elevate the upper plate 6 and the post rotation base 71 above the interface plate 4. This elevation could be accomplished using multiple risers 10 of different heights. This elevation could also be accomplished by using multiple risers 10 of the same height. Additionally a larger riser 10 could be used in the place of any or all of the smaller risers 10. An alternate embodiment is to use risers 10 together with sloped risers 101. As more than one riser 10 could be used together, more than one sloped riser 101 can be used together. These sloped risers 101 would not have to have their angle of inclination along the same axis. Any combination of sloped risers 101 and risers 10 are acceptable. A riser is a flat plate of even thickness, while a sloped riser has a wedge shape. In the case of multiple sloped risers 101, they do not have to be angled to tilt the post connection unit 7 in only one plane.

[0067] There are a wide range of acceptable dimensions for the risers 10 and sloped risers 101. It will depend on the nature of the exact job to be done. There are many factors to be considered including the load that the system will be under, the height and weight of the support post 11 than will be mounted on the foundation 1, weight, distance between successive foundations, average and gust wind speeds, etc. These are all things that one skilled in the art will be able to tailor to suit their needs.

[0068] Experience has shown that a sloped riser 101 can have an incline angle of between 0,5° and around 60° and still function. This is greater than the normal usage region of 2° to 20° that can occur during normal operation. These large angles are needed when a large angle is formed between the foundation 1 and level ground. This can be due to operator error, a limitation at the job site, or a problem with the ground. Multiple sloped risers 101 could be placed stacked on top of each other if a large angle was needed.

[0069] The thickness of the risers 10 has even more variation. The biggest limitation will be weight and the ability to easily handle the component. If large plates of metal are used, these can quickly become too heavy to easily manipulate. Composites can be much lighter, and thus the risers 10 can be made thicker and larger. Depending on the material, a thickness of between 1 and 75 cm, preferably between 5 and 25 cm, could be used. For practical purposes, a single riser 10 would have a thickness of 5 to 25cm. It would be trivial to build up to a large height by stacking many risers 10 on top of each other. But note that this is more weight of material handling problem and not a theoretical one. It is foreseeable that very thick risers and sloped risers could be made and installed using machine assistance.

[0070] The support post 11 can either be a separate part from the post connection unit 7, or the two can be integrated as a single part.

[0071] Reference is made to FIG. 6. This discloses an isometric horizontal cross sectional view of the inside of the interface plate 4 of the present invention. The locking device 5 is slid into the locking passage 55 in the interface plate 4. The interface fastening aid 53 pass into receiving holes 54 in the locking device 5.

[0072] Reference is made to FIG. 7. This figure discloses a transparent isometric view of interface plate and the upper plate of the present invention in the used position. The locking device 5 is within locking passages 55 in the interface plate 4. The interface fastening aid 53 is passed through the upper plate 6 and through the receiving holes 54. This figure also shows how the upper plate 6 is arranged such that it has a complimentary form for the shape for the post rotation base 71 (not shown).

[0073] Reference is made to FIGs 8A, 8B, and 8C. These figures disclose side views of the present invention in three different engaged positions. Translational adjustment of the upper plate 6 and the post connection unit 7 is achieved by using the grooves in the upper plate 61 (not shown) and interface plate 41(not shown). Cant and height adjustments are made using combinations of sloped risers 101 and risers 10 as needed.

[0074] The grooves in the upper plate 61 and the lower plate 41 have been shown in the present invention as being perpendicular to each other. While this is the preferred embodiment, alternative embodiments can include grooves 61 and 41 that are not perpendicular. If translational adjustment was desired in only one direction, the grooves 61 or 41 could be removed from the interface 4 or the upper plate 6. If translational adjustment was not desired at all, an alternate embodiment could be to remove the grooves 61 and 41 from both the interface plate 4 and the upper plates 6 and replace them with aligned through holes.

[0075] Reference is made to FIG. 8D. This discloses a side view of the alternate embodiment disclosed in FIG. 3B in an engaged position, where the interface plate 4 and the interface connector 8 shown in previous figures (FIGs. 8A to 8C)has been divided into three parts. The interface plate middle 42 is connected to the interface connector middle 82. The interface connector middle 82 is connected to the top of the foundation 1. The interface plate sides 43(a,b) bottom are connected to the top of the corresponding interface connector sides 83(a,b). The interface plate middle 42 is moveably in contact with the interface plate sides 43(a,b). A riser plate 10 is found between the interface plate sides 43(a,b) and the upper plate 6.

[0076] The difference in the height between the two interface plate sides 43(a,b) determine the cant angle and height of the post connection unit 7 in a single plane. If one side of the same connection plate side 43a or 43b is at a different height than the other side of the same connection plate side, the cant angle can be easily adjusted in two dimensions. In this case a curved shape would be best for the interface plate side grooves 431(a,b). In the same manner, if the two interface plate sides were each raised to the same height, it would simply change the height of the post connection unit 7.

[0077] The interface plate middle 42 and the interface connector middle 82 are shown as shaded. This is the highlight the gap that is found between the riser 10 and the interface plate middle 42. This gap will usually be very small, but if it is large enough to cause strength concerns, something can be used to fill the gap. This could be a specialized riser 10 or sloped riser 101 can be inserted. Another option is to use hardening foam that can fill the gap.

[0078] As shown in FIG. 8C and FIG. 5A, different combinations of risers 10 and sloped risers 101 (not shown) can be used together in the alternate embodiment disclosed by FIG. 8D. If desired, this embodiment of the present invention the gross adjustment of height and cant can be done using the interface plate sides and then the fine adjustments made with the risers 10 and sloped risers 101. The other way around can be used if desired as well.

[0079] Reference is made to FIGs 9A and 9B. These disclose a top view of the present invention in two different rotation positions. A support post 11 is connected to post connection unit 7. The post rotation base 71 is connected to the post connection unit 7 on the opposite side as the support post 11. The upper plate 6 holds the post rotation base 71 in place with the use of an interface fastening aid 53 (not shown).

[0080] The rotation that is shown in going from FIG. 9A to FIG. 9B is achieved by loosening or removing the interface fastening aid 53 allowing for the removal or lifting of the upper plate 6. The post rotation base 71 is rotated into the desired position, and then the upper plate 6 is placed back and tightened by the interface fastening aid 53 (not shown). Note that there is a 360° choice of rotational angle.

[0081] The post connection unit 7 is shown in the figures as an "H" type and a type where the support post 11 is fitted inside the post connection unit 7. Other post connection unit shapes are possible, depending on the type of support post 11 that the user desires to use.

[0082] Even though the figures all show the present invention used with a metal pile, this is not the only application. It would not be outside of the skill of an ordinary person skilled in the art to attach the present invention to a concrete foundation. This could be accomplished through modifying the interface connector 8, or simply attaching the interface plate 4 directly to the foundation.

[0083] Use of the present invention for the adjustment of the rotational angle, translational position, cant, and height of a support post attached to a foundation 1 will now be explained. By using the grooves in the upper 61 and interface 41 plates, the translational position of the support post can be adjusted. To adjust the cant of the support post 11, sloped risers 101 are inserted between the upper plate 6 and the interface plate 4. To adjust the height of the support post 11, risers 10 are inserted between the upper plate 6 and the interface plate 4. The rotational angle of the support post 11 can be adjusted by loosening the connection between the upper plate 6 and the interface plate 6, rotating the post connection unit 7 to the desired angle, and tightening the connection between the upper plate 6 and the interface plate. Additionally, if using an embodiment as described in FIG. 3B, the interface plate sides 43(a,b) are set at different heights to adjust height and/or cant angle.

[0084] Please note that "steps of" is not to be interpreted as "steps for". The method of adjusting the position of the post connection unit 7 of an adjustment device for a foundation 1 is given by first:

(b) Loosening or removing the connection between the upper plate 6 and the interface plate 4.

[0085] Then performing one or more of the following repeatable steps:

(c) Adjusting the translational position by moving the upper plate 6 with respect to the lower plate 4 by using the upper plate grooves 61.

(d) Adjusting the translational position by moving the upper plate 6 with respect to the lower plate 4 by using the interface plate grooves 41.

(e) Adjusting the rotational angle by rotating the post connection unit 7.

(f) Adjusting the height position by performing one or more of the following steps:

(i). Inserting one or more risers 10 underneath the post rotation base 71 between the upper plate 6 and the interface plate 4.

(ii). Adjusting the height of the interface plate sides 43(a,b) to the same height.

(g) Adjusting the cant in one or more directions, by performing one or more of the following steps:

(i). Inserting one or more sloped risers 101 underneath the post rotation base 71 between the upper plate 6 and the interface plate 4.

(ii). Changing the height difference between each of the interface plate sides 43(a,b).

[0086] Followed by the step of:

(g) Reestablishing the connection between the upper plate 6 and the interface plate 4.

[0087] Note that the middle steps can be performed in any order or combination. They can also be done more than once. It is possible for the post rotation base 71 to be permanently connected to the upper plate if rotation of the post connection unit 7 is not needed or desired.

[0088] Even though the present invention is described herein as a separate device, it is meant to be able to function as a part of a system that is comprised of:

(a) A foundation 1.

(b) An interface connector.

(c) The device of the present invention.

(d) A post connection unit 7.

[0089] Where the first end of the present invention is attached to a foundation 1 and post connection unit 7 attached to the second end of the present invention. The support post 11 is connected to the present invention on the opposite side as the foundation 1 in a generally upright direction.

Claims

1. Adjustment device for a foundation (1) comprised of:

(a) an interface connector (8) comprised of a top and a bottom surface; and

(b) an interface plate (4) comprised of a top and a bottom surface, one or more locking passages (55) parallel to the surfaces' interface plate, and one or more interface plate grooves (41) perpendicular to the top and bottom surfaces of the interface plate (4); and

(c) one or more locking devices (5) with one or more receiving holes (54); and

(d) a post rotation base (71) comprised of a top and a bottom surface; and

(e) a post connection unit (7) comprised of a top and a bottom side; and

(f) an upper plate (6) comprised of a top surface, a bottom surface, one or more upper plate grooves (61) perpendicular to the surfaces of the upper plate (6), and a post rotation base hole (62); and

(g) a plurality of bolts (50);

CHARACTERIZED in that:

the bottom surface of the interface plate (4) is attached to the top surface of the interface connector (8);

one or more of the locking devices (5) are located inside the locking passages (55) in the interface plate (4); the receiving holes (54) in the locking devices (5) are aligned roughly with the interface plate grooves (41);

the bottom surface of the post rotation base (71) moveably rests upon the top surface of the interface plate (4); the bottom side of the post connection unit (7) is connected to the top surface of the post rotation base (71); both the post connection unit (7) and the post rotation base (71) are aligned along the same axial axis;

the bottom surface of the upper plate (6) rests upon the top surface of the interface plate (4); the post rotation base (71) is located inside the post rotation base hole (62);

the upper plate (6) and the interface plate (4) are connected together through the bolt (50) passing through the upper plate groove (61) and the interface plate groove (41), and into the receiving hole (54) in the locking device (5).

2. Adjustment device for a foundation (1) in accordance with claim 1, wherein the interface plate (4) is comprised of:

(a) an interface plate middle (42) comprised of a left side and a right side that are located roughly perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the adjustment device; and one or more locking passages (55) roughly parallel to the left and right sides of the interface plate middle (42);

(b) a first and a second interface plate side (43a,b) each comprised of a left and a right side; with one or more interface plate side grooves (431a,b) that are roughly perpendicular to the left and right interface plate sides (43a,b) and which line up one or more of the locking passages (55) in the interface plate middle (42); with one or more interface plate top grooves (432a,b) which are roughly parallel to the left and right interface plate sides (43a,b);

CHARACTERIZED in that:

the left side of the interface plate middle (42) is removably attached to the right side of the first interface plate connector (43a);

the right side of the interface plate middle (42) is removably attached to the left side of the second interface plate connector (43b);

the locking passages (55) in the interface middle plate (42) align with the interface plate side grooves (431 a,b) to form a passage for the locking device (55).

3. Adjustment device for a foundation (1) in accordance with claim 1 or 2, CHARACTERIZED in that the upper plate (6) is fixedly connected to the rotation base (71).

4. Adjustment device for a foundation (1) in accordance with claim 1 to 3, CHARACTERIZED in that one or more risers (10) are inserted between the top surface of the interface plate (4) and the bottom surface of the upper plate (6).

5. Adjustment device for a foundation (1) in accordance with claim 4, CHARACTERIZED in that one or more risers (10) have an independent thickness of between 1 and 75 cm, preferably between 5 and 25 cm.

6. Adjustment device for a foundation (1) in accordance with claim 1 to 3, CHARACTERIZED in that one or more sloped risers (101) are inserted between the top surface of the interface plate (4) and the bottom surface of the upper plate (6).

7. Adjustment device for a foundation (1) in accordance with claim 6, CHARACTERIZED in that one or more of the sloped risers (101) has an independent angle of inclination of between 0,5° and 60°, preferably between 2° and 20°, as measured when the sloped riser (101) is placed upon a level surface.

8. Adjustment device for a foundation (1) in accordance with claim 1 to 3, CHARACTERIZED in that one or more of the components are made of a composite material, preferably reinforced plastics.

9. Method of adjusting the position of the post connection unit (7) of the adjustment device for a foundation (1) in accordance with any of claims 1 to 8, CHARACTERIZED by comprising the following steps:

(a) loosening or removing the connection between the upper plate (6) and the interface plate (4);

further comprising one or more of the following steps:

(b) adjusting the translational position by moving the upper plate (6) with respect to the lower plate (4) by using the upper plate grooves (61);

(c) adjusting the translational position by moving the upper plate (6) with respect to the lower plate (4) using the interface plate grooves (41);

(d) adjusting the rotational angle by rotating the post connection unit (7);

(e) adjusting the height position by performing one or more of the following steps:

(iii). inserting one or more risers (10) underneath the post rotation base (71); between the upper plate (6) and the interface plate (4);

(iv). adjusting the height of the interface plate sides (43a,b) to the same height;

(f) adjusting the cant in one or more directions, by performing one or more of the following steps:

(v). inserting one or more sloped risers (101) underneath the post rotation base (71); between the upper plate (6) and the interface plate (4);

(vi). changing the height difference between each of the interface plate sides (43a,b);

then performing the following step:

(g) reestablishing the connection between the upper plate (6) and the interface plate (4).

10. Foundation adjustment system CHARACTERIZED by the following:

(a) the foundation (1);

(b) the interface connector (8);

(c) the device of the present invention in accordance with any of claims 1 to 8;

(d) the post connection unit (7).

11. Use of the adjustment device for a foundation (1) in accordance with claims 1 to 8 for the adjustment of the rotational angle, translational position, height, and/or cant of the post connection unit (7).

Drawing