Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a retaining wall strength analysis device that is capable of providing a comprehensive solution for assessing and maintaining retaining walls by accurately evaluating wall strength and considering various factors, including materials, cracks, ground stability, and vibrations as well as automatically detects weak zones and alerts users via a 3D map if renovation is required, ensuring pro-active maintenance and safety, thereby potentially preventing structural failures and accidents.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Retaining walls are critical structural elements in civil engineering, ensuring stability and safety in various environments, including construction sites, transportation infrastructure, and residential areas. These walls withstand lateral earth pressures, protecting adjacent structures and preventing soil erosion. However, retaining walls are susceptible to failures due to factors like inadequate design, poor construction, and degradation over time.

[0003] Traditionally, retaining wall strength assessment relies on visual inspections by experts, manual calculation methods, physical testing, and two-dimensional analysis tools. Visual inspections are subjective and prone to human error, while manual calculations often oversimplify complex structural dynamics. Physical testing, such as drilling and sampling, is invasive, costly, and limited in scope. Moreover, two-dimensional analysis tools neglect critical three-dimensional factors.

[0004] US6527483B1 discloses a retaining wall assembly includes a plurality of block elements having a major face wall and minor face wall and a pair of opposing converging walls connecting the major face wall and the minor face wall. The block elements are arranged in multiple rows with a mesh grid separating predefined rows of block elements. The block elements define an open core into which a plurality of anchoring stones is distributed. A synthetic resin is also dispersed in the open cores of the block elements to provide a positive connection between the anchoring stones and the mesh grid, thereby reinforcing the position of the retaining wall.

[0005] WO2005116346A2 discloses a method for constructing a graviloft retaining wall comprising the steps of: constructing a base slab-cum leveling course (IEIFGH) comprising one of the ingredients cement concrete, rubble and masonary; constructing a retaining wall (ABCDEE1) in several parts, a first part (JKEE1) constituting of ingredient identical to said base slab-cum-leveling course; backfilling i.e. placement of earth behind the retaining wall and suitably compacting upto a level (KKI); constructing a second portion (SDKJ) of said retaining wall (ABCDEE1) in one or plurality of lift depending upon a height (DE) of said second portion (SDEE1) of the retaining wall, simultaneous placing of earth behind the .retaining wall define clearly during construction of the parts of the retaining wall, at least upto a commencing level (SD) of construction of a loft (S1CMLDS); constructing the loft (S1CMLDS) at a level (SD) comprising reinforced concrete slab; constructing a remaining part (ABCSI) of the retaining wall (ABCDEE1) either in two installments or in a single installment depending on the height of the remaining past of the regaining walk (ABCDEE1).

[0006] Conventionally, there exists many devices that are capable of retaining wall strength, however these existing devices are fails in detecting weak zones in the wall and ground surface, which cause defects in integrity of the wall. In addition, these existing devices are also incapable of providing recommendation about needed renovation, which led to structural failures and accidents.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that requires to be capable of streamlining the process of retaining walls by measuring wall strength and look into various factors such as materials, cracks, ground stability, and vibrations. Furthermore, the developed device also needs to be potent enough of monitoring weak zones in the wall and accordingly alerts the user by providing a 3D (three-dimensional) map, in case the renovation is required.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of analyzing the strength of a retaining wall by considering various factors such as materials used, cracks, ground stability, and vibrations, providing a comprehensive evaluation of the wall's condition.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of ensuring proactive maintenance and safety by automatically detecting weak zones in the wall and ground surface, and alerts the user via a 3-D map, if renovation is required.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of providing a user with precise data and recommendations for renovation, enabling informed decision-making and potentially preventing structural failures and accidents.

[0012] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The present invention relates to a retaining wall strength analysis device that is capable of delivering a thorough retaining wall evaluation, combining precise strength assessment (considering materials, cracks, ground stability, and vibrations) with automated weak zone detection and alerts via 3D (three dimensional) mapping, facilitating proactive maintenance, enhanced safety, and reduced risk of structural failures and accidents.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a retaining wall strength analysis device, comprising a cuboidal body developed to be positioned over a ground surface constructed with a retaining wall, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit installed on the body to capture multiple images surroundings of the body for monitoring exact location of the wall, multiple motorized tracked wheels arranged beneath the body to move the body towards the detected location of the wall, a piezoelectric transducer configured with the body by means of an L-shaped telescopically operated rod to get extend and place the transducer in the ground surface, a motorized hinge arranged with a chamber attached with the body for tilting the chamber to streaming sand and gravel on every side of the transducer, a motorized slider is assembled with the hinge to move the hinge and the chamber together for streaming the sand and gravel all over the transducer and an electronic valve arranged with a water container on the body to dispense water forcefully.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the proposed device further comprises of a an L-shaped telescopically operated bar mounted with the body and configured with a plate, which have multiple pins, the bar get extend and inserting pins in the ground surface, a motorized clamp to grip edge of the wall to allow a vibrating sensor, which is installed with the clamp to monitor vibrations in wall due to motion of other vehicles in surroundings, a GPR (Ground Penetrating Radar) installed on the body to monitor weak zones in the ground surface, an evaluation module linked with the microcontroller analyzes the requirement of strength for the wall, a 3-D mapping module linked with the microcontroller to produce a 3-D map of wall to aid in construction of the wall and a battery is associated with the device to supply power to electrically powered components which are employed herein.

[0016] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of a retaining wall strength analysis device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0019] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0020] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0021] The present invention relates to a retaining wall strength analysis device that is capable of offering an integrated solution by optimizing strength evaluation (incorporating materials, cracks, stability, and vibrations) with automated weak spot identification and 3D (three-dimensional) visual alerts, ensuring pro-active upkeep, improved safety, and minimized likelihood of structural incidents.

[0022] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view of a retaining wall strength analysis device is illustrated, comprising a cuboidal body 101, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 114 mounted on the body 101, motorized tracked wheels 102 configured underneath the body 101, an L-shaped telescopically operated rod 103 configured with the body 101 and equipped with a piezoelectric transducer 104, a motorized hinge 105 configured with a chamber 106 attached with the body 101, a motorized slider 107 is configured with the hinge 105, an electronic valve 108 attached with a water container 109 mounted on the body 101, an L-shaped telescopically operated bar 110 installed with the body 101 and installed with a plate 111 equipped with plurality of pins 112 and a motorized clamp 113 installed on the body 101.

[0023] The device disclosed herein, comprises of a cuboidal body 101, which serves as a main structure of the device and developed to be positioned over a ground surface that is constructed with a retaining wall. The process begins where a user provides input commands over a computing unit installed with a user-interface associated with the device wirelessly, about accessing strength of the wall as well as different materials and their amount required in construction of the wall.

[0024] After the user provide input commands over the computing unit, a microcontroller, which is linked with the computing wirelessly processes these provided commands and monitors wall strength in accordance with the user-defined details, wherein the microcontroller is wirelessly linked with the computing unit with the help of a communication module which includes, but not limited to Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) module, Bluetooth module, GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication) module.

[0025] After monitoring wall strength, the microcontroller activates an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 114 installed on the body 101 to capture multiple images surroundings of the body 101, which helps in monitoring exact location of the wall. The artificial intelligence based imaging unit 114 is constructed with a camera lens and a processor, wherein the camera lens is adapted to capture a series of images of the surrounding present in proximity to the body 101.

[0026] The processor carries out a sequence of image processing operations including pre-processing, feature extraction, and classification. The image captured by the imaging unit 114 is real-time images of the body 101’s surrounding. The artificial intelligence based imaging unit 114 transmits the captured image signal in the form of digital bits to the microcontroller. The microcontroller upon receiving the image signals compares the received image signal with the pre-fed data stored in a database and constantly determines accurate location of the wall.

[0027] Based on the detected location of the wall, the microcontroller actuates multiple motorized tracked wheels 102 arranged beneath the body 101 to move the body 101 towards the detected location of the wall. The tracked wheels 102 consist of rugged threads or cleats that provide traction and prevent slipping of the body 101. The wheels 102 are connected to an electric motor which propels the body 101 forward or backward. This allows the body 101 to move efficiently across surfaces like gravel, dirt, mud, or uneven terrain.

[0028] A piezoelectric transducer 104 configured with the body 101 by means of an L-shaped telescopically operated rod 103. After positioning the body 101 in close proximity to the detected location of the wall, the microcontroller actuates the rod 103 to get extend and place the transducer 104 in the ground surface. The telescopic rod 103 as mentioned herein are powered by a pneumatic unit that utilizes compressed air to extend and retract the rod 103. The process begins with an air compressor which compresses atmospheric air to a higher pressure.

[0029] The air cylinder of the pneumatic unit contains a piston that moves back and forth within the cylinder. The cylinder is connected to one end of the telescopic rod 103. The piston is attached to the telescopically operated rod 103 and its movement is controlled by the flow of compressed air. To extend the telescopic rod 103 the piston activates the air valve 108 to allow compressed air to flow into the chamber 106 behind the piston. As the pressure increases in the chamber 106, the piston pushes the telescopic rod 103 to the desired length for positioning the transducer 104 in the ground surface.

[0030] Simultaneously, the microcontroller actuates a motorized hinge 105 arranged with a chamber 106 attached with the body 101 for tilting the chamber 106 to streaming sand and gravel on every side of the transducer 104. The hinge 105 consist of a pair of leaf that are connected with each other via a rod 103, wherein the rod 103 is coupled with a motor that is interlinked with the microcontroller for leaning the chamber 106 to pour sand and gravel around the transducer 104.

[0031] Herein, a motorized slider 107 is assembled with the hinge 105 that is actuated by the microcontroller to move the hinge 105 and the chamber 106 together for streaming the sand and gravel all over the transducer 104. The slider 107 consists of a motor, and a rail unit integrated with ball bearings to allow smooth linear movement. As the motor rotates the rotational motion of the motor is converted into linear motion through a pair of belts and linkages. This linear motion provides a stable track and allows the smooth translation of the hinge 105 and chamber 106 for pouring the sand and gravel all over the transducer 104.

[0032] At the same time, the microcontroller actuates an electronic valve 108 arranged with a water container 109 on the body 101 to dispense water forcefully. The electronic valve 108 works by utilizing electrical energy to automize the flow solution in a controlled flow pattern by converting the pressure energy of a fluid into kinetic energy, which increases the fluid's velocity. The electric valve 108 is connected to a liquid source, i.e., a water. Upon actuation of valve 108 by the microcontroller, the electric motor or the pump pressurizes the incoming water, increasing its pressure significantly. High pressure enables the water to be sprayed out with a high force.

[0033] The microcontroller synchronously allowed the transducer 104 to monitor pressure exerted by the water while passing through the sand. The transducer 104 are employed to measure pressure variations in sand-water interactions. The transducer 104 is in the ground surface so the transducer 104 exposing its sensing element to the water flow. As water passes through the sand, it exerts pressure on the transducers 104 diaphragm, causing it to deflect. This deflection applies mechanical stress to the piezoelectric material, altering its electrical resistance.

[0034] The change in resistance is directly proportional to the applied pressure. A Wheatstone bridge circuit converts this resistance change into a voltage output, which is then measured to determine the pressure. The transducer 104 measures the initial pressure when no water is flowing and continuously updates the microcontroller as water flows, providing real-time monitoring of pressure fluctuations.

[0035] The database stored with information like type of cracks and the impact of the crack, then the microcontroller with the help of the imaging unit 114 monitors type of crack on the wall and accordingly ingress the database to evaluate presence weak zones in the wall. An L-shaped telescopically operated bar 110 mounted with the body 101 and configured with a plate 111, which have multiple pins 112. After determining the weak zones, the microcontroller actuates the bar 110 to get extend and inserting pins 112 in the ground surface.

[0036] The extension of the bar 110 is powered by a pneumatic unit that utilizes the compressed air to extend and retract the bar 110 for pressing the pins 112 inside the ground surface for detecting sliding of soil after penetration of pin, which results in monitoring of stability of the ground surface. Simultaneously, the microcontroller actuates the wheels 102 to place the body 101 in close proximity of the wall’s edge.

[0037] As the body 101 get positioned near to the edge of the wall, the microcontroller actuates a motorized clamp 113 to grasp edge of the wall. The clamp 113 includes a pair of flaps which are pivoted with each other for allowing the axial motion of the flaps required for clasping the edge of the wall, a DC motor is paired with the pivot joint that is activated by the microcontroller for providing a rotational motion to the joint for automating the movement of the flaps for gripping edge of the wall.

[0038] After gripping the edge of the wall, the microcontroller activates a vibrating sensor installed with the clamp 113 to monitor vibrations in wall due to motion of other vehicles in surroundings. The vibrating sensor typically an accelerometers, which works by measuring acceleration or changes in velocity. They consist of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) to detect and measure acceleration. These sensors are incredibly small and sensitive, allowing them to accurately capture even the slightest vibrations. In the context of monitoring vibrations experienced by the wall. When the wall experiences vibrations, the accelerometers detect the changes in acceleration and provide data on the intensity and frequency of the vibrations.

[0039] A GPR (Ground Penetrating Radar) installed on the body 101 to monitor weak zones in the ground surface. The GPR emit high-frequency electromagnetic pulses (typically in the microwave range) into the ground. These pulses penetrate the material being scanned. When they encounter boundaries between different materials (such as soil and rock, or soil and buried objects), some of the energy is reflected back to the GPR. The GPR detects these reflected signals. By analyzing the time, it takes for the signals to return and their strength, the GPR create a profile (or image) of subsurface structures and objects, and accordingly the microcontroller detecting week zones in the ground surface.

[0040] In accordance with the detected week zones in wall, force applied by water, week zone in ground surface, ground stability, and vibrations in the wall, the microcontroller activates an evaluation module linked with the microcontroller analyzes the requirement of strength for the wall. The evaluation module assesses the strength of a wall by considering various factors that impact its performance. The process begins with inputting parameters such as wall geometry, material properties, load conditions, soil properties, and design codes. The module then calculates the total load on the wall, including dead loads, live loads, wind loads, and seismic loads. Next, the module performs stress analysis to determine the tensile, compressive, and shear stresses in the wall due to the applied loads.

[0041] The material properties, such as strength, modulus of elasticity, and Poisson's ratio, are retrieved from a database or user input. A structural analysis, often using finite element methods, is then conducted to determine the wall's behavior under load. The evaluation module calculates the required strength of the wall based on the applied loads, material properties, and structural analysis. A factor of safety is applied to account for uncertainties and ensure reliable performance. The calculated strength is then compared with design code requirements.

[0042] In case the evaluated strength of the wall, the microcontroller activates a 3-D mapping module linked with the microcontroller to produce a 3-D map of wall, which helps in construction of the wall. The 3-D mapping module uses advanced protocols to create a digital 3-D model of a wall based on design specifications, surveys, or manual input. This model incorporates various components, including geometry, materials, reinforcement, and openings. The module generates a precise 3-D map, considering spatial relationships, material properties, structural loads, and construction sequencing. The resulting 3-D map is a detailed, interactive visualization of the wall, enabling users to rotate, zoom, and pan to inspect every aspect. The map then sent to the computing unit to alert the user for initiate renovation of the wall based on the generated map.

[0043] A battery is associated with the device to supply power to electrically powered components which are employed herein. The battery is comprised of a pair of electrode named as a cathode and an anode. The battery uses a chemical reaction of oxidation/reduction to do work on charge and produce a voltage between their anode and cathode and thus produces electrical energy that is used to do work in the device.

[0044] The present invention works best in following manner, where the cuboidal body 101 as disclosed in the invention is developed to be positioned over the ground surface to retain the wall, the artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 114 to capture multiple images surroundings of the body 101 for monitoring exact location of the wall, multiple motorized tracked wheels 102 to move the body 101 towards the detected location of the wall, the L-shaped telescopically operated rod 103 get extend and place the transducer 104 in the ground surface, the motorized hinge 105 tilting the chamber 106 to streaming sand and gravel on every side of the transducer 104, the motorized slider 107 to move the hinge 105 and the chamber 106 together for streaming the sand and gravel all over the transducer 104, the electronic valve 108 to dispense water forcefully. Simultaneously, the L-shaped telescopically operated bar 110 get extend and inserting pins 112 in the ground surface, the motorized clamp 113 grip edge of the wall to allow the vibrating sensor to monitor vibrations in wall due to motion of other vehicles in surroundings. Further, the GPR (Ground Penetrating Radar) to monitor weak zones in the ground surface, the evaluation module analyzes the requirement of strength for the wall, the 3-D mapping module to produce the 3-D map of wall to aid in construction of the wall and the battery to supply power to electrically powered components which are employed herein.

[0045] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) A retaining wall strength analysis device, comprising:

i) a cuboidal body 101 positioned on a ground surface constructed with a retaining wall, wherein a user-interface inbuilt in a computing unit wirelessly associated with said device for enabling a user to give input commands for accessing strength of said wall along with inputting details regarding different materials and their amount used in construction of said wall;
ii) a microcontroller wirelessly linked with said computing unit that processes said input commands and determines wall strength based on said user-defined details;
iii) activates an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 114 paired with a processor mounted on said body 101 for capturing and processing multiple images of surroundings, respectively, for detecting exact location of said wall, wherein said microcontroller actuates motorized tracked wheels 102 configured underneath said body 101 for maneuvering and positioning said body 101 near said wall;
iv) an L-shaped telescopically operated rod 103 configured with said body 101 and equipped with a piezoelectric transducer 104, wherein said microcontroller actuates said rod 103 to extend for positioning said transducer 104 in said ground surface, followed by actuation of a motorized hinge 105 configured with a chamber 106 attached with said body 101 to tilt said chamber 106 for pouring sand and gravel around said sensor;
v) an electronic valve 108 attached with a water container 109 mounted on said body 101 that is actuated by said microcontroller to open for dispensing water at a high pressure in view of allowing said transducer 104 to detect force applied by said water upon passing through said sand;
vi) a database linked with said microcontroller and stored with information regarding type of cracks and its impact, wherein said microcontroller via said imaging unit 114 detects type of cracks on said wall, and accesses said database for determining presence of weak zones in said wall;
vii) an L-shaped telescopically operated bar 110 installed with said body 101 and installed with a plate 111 equipped with plurality of pins 112, that is actuated by said microcontroller to extend for penetrating said pins 112 in ground surface, for allowing said imaging unit 114 to detect stability of ground surface by detecting sliding of soil upon penetration of pin, wherein said microcontroller actuates said wheels 102 for maneuvering and positioning said body 101 near edge of said wall, followed by actuation of a motorized clamp 113 to grip edge of said wall to allow a vibrating sensor arranged with said clamp 113 to detect vibrations in wall during motion of vehicles in surroundings;
viii) a GPR (Ground Penetrating Radar) arranged on said body 101 for detecting week zones in said sound surface, wherein an evaluation module integrated within said microcontroller evaluates strength of said wall required based on said week zones in wall, force applied by water, week zone in ground surface, ground stability, and vibrations in said wall; and
ix) a 3-D mapping module integrated within said microcontroller, wherein in case said evaluated strength exceeds said determined strength of wall, said microcontroller via said 3-D mapping module generates a 3-D map of wall to be constructed which is sent to said computing unit for notifying said user to carry out renovation of said wall as per said 3-D map.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a motorized slider 107 is configured with said hinge 105 that is actuated by said microcontroller for translating said hinge 105 along with said chamber 106 to evenly pour said sand and gravel around said transducer 104.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said microcontroller is wirelessly linked with said computing unit via a communication module which includes, but not limited to Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) module, Bluetooth module, GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication) module.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said L-shaped telescopically operated rod 103 and L-shaped telescopically operated bar 110 are powered by a pneumatic unit that includes an air compressor, air cylinder, air valve 108s and piston which works in collaboration to aid in extension and retraction of said rod 103 and bar 110.

5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a battery is associated with said device for supplying power to electrical and electronically operated components associated with said device.