DESC:FIELD OF INVENTION
The present invention relates to a system constructed for holding or stabilizing hill/cut slopes, specifically addressing concerns related to slope instability and landslides more specifically for welded/mesh.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
Slope stability refers to condition of inclined soil or rock slopes to withstand or undergo movement. The stability of a natural or a man-made slope can be affected by a number of predisposing factors, that either leads to increase in the stress or by decrease the strength of a natural or a man-made slope, resulting in slope failure/slope slide.

There are numerous factors that can trigger slope failure such as intense or prolonged rainfall, rapid snowmelt, progressive soil saturation, increase of water pressure within the slope, earthquakes, aftershocks of the earthquakes, internal erosion, surface or toe erosion, artificial slope loading during any construction, slope cutting while making space for roadways, railways or buildings, or slope flooding due to floods, dam overflow etc. The unstable and unprotected slope can lead to numerous problems such as landslide, and that can be fatal and can lead to loss of property and life.

There are various prior art and players in the market such as Geobrugg, 3S, Maccaferri etc. who have developed wired mesh that are used as a drape to control slope erosion. The prior arts disclose meshes made of wire and the wired meshes are then connected together with the help of other wires, clips, ropes or just by overlap without a stitch. The meshes as disclosed in the prior art may or may not use fixing arrangement and cable connections. The said fixing arrangements act as a separate unit and are used separately over the meshes to pin the meshes to the soil anchors. The cable connection does act as a separate unit and are connected to the mesh with nail head. The wired meshes as detailed in the prior art have some disadvantages such as low resistance capacity, low stiffness, disconnection and lesser durability. Therefore, there lies a requirement to for a strong, stiff, durable and a high resistance capacity mesh that can help in strengthening of the soil layers or weathered rock by protecting and/or stabilizing slopes of earth surface such as sloppy hills, lands, cut surfaces and surface area of the unstable loose soil.

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION
The object of the invention is to provide a hill/cut slope stabilization system that combines strength, adaptability, and ease of installation, addressing the challenges associated with slope instability and landslides.

The primary objective of the present invention is to provide an efficient and versatile system for holding or stabilizing siding of earth land surfaces such as hill/cut slopes.

Another objective of the invention is to enhance the stability of hill/cut slopes by employing a robust rebar mesh structure. The interconnected horizontal and vertical bars/wires, combined with a spiral wire connecting mechanism, contribute to stronger and more flexible joints. This enhances the overall stability of the slope, mitigating the risk of instability and landslides.

Yet another objective of the invention is to provide a versatility system for allows the system to adapt to different environmental conditions and project requirements and which can be configured in various angles/directions with respect to the axis so that the system can be used in diverse terrains and slope configurations.

Yet another object of the invention is to provide the system made up of metals, alloys such as steel.

One more object of the invention is to provide a lightweight stabilizing system where the system as a whole or its parts thereof can be made of any suitable material such as polymers, glass or carbon fibers or mixtures thereof. Preferably, the polymers can be homo or co-polymers.

One more object of the invention is to provide a system for holding or stabilizing hill/cut slope, said system comprising a plurality of horizontal bars and vertical bars, which form one or more mesh panels, one or more spiral wires to connect consecutive mesh panels, said spiral wires wound over two or more horizontal or vertical bars at the edges of the mesh panels; one or more spike plates, each spike plate comprising at least one hole, one or more rotating means and one or more claws; one or more connecting means for connecting the mesh panels to the hill/cut slope, each connecting means comprises a rod having a head at one end for holding each spike plate through the hole and the mesh panels. The rods can be of any shape and size. The length and width of the rod can vary depending upon the nature of the slop/hill face/structures and working environment/surrounding.
One more object of the invention is to provide a system wherein the mesh is made of materials selected from steel, plastic, alloys, or iron, coated with substances like hot dip Zinc, Zinc Aluminum galvanization, epoxy, or resin for corrosion resistance.
One more object of the invention is to provide a system wherein the mesh bars are arranged orthogonally with a spacing of 25mm to 175mm, preferably 50mm to 150mm and a diameter of 2mm to 20mm, preferably 4mm to 12mm. The spiral wires connecting mesh panels have a diameter of 2mm to 10mm and a pitch of 15mm to 60mm.
One more object of the invention is to provide a system wherein the rotating means is a rod-shaped, key head-shaped, or star-shaped element. The fixing means is a rotatable L-shaped or hook element engaging with the mesh panels. The claws on the spike plate secure the mesh panels and spike plates to the hill/cut slope. The spike plate is in the shape of an expend cup having top and bottom sides, the hole is at the centre of the spike plate, the rotating means and claws are arranged at the bottom side of the spike plate. The thickness and shape of the spike plate can vary depending upon the requirements.
One more object of the invention is to provide a system further comprising rods or cables running between the edges of two mesh panels for providing additional stability to the mesh panels on the hill/cut slope.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION
The present invention describes a system for holding or stabilizing a structure or slope. The system comprising a rebar mesh having bars/wires arranged in horizontal and vertical manner, connected by spirals and/or fixed by using spike plates for slope stabilization. The mesh strengthens the top layer of soil or weather rock by wrapping or supporting unstable loose surface with a combination of welded rebar mesh and soil anchors.

The hill/cut slope stabilization system of the present invention represents the critical need for effective solutions in preventing slope instability and potential landslides. At the core of the system is a mesh constructed from a diverse array of materials such as steel, plastic, alloys, or iron. This material flexibility allows for adaptation to various environmental conditions and specific project requirements. Preferably the mesh undergoes a coating process to sustain its durability and resistance to environmental factors such as corrosion. The cooling process and cooling materials are selected in such a way to suite the various requirement of the system. Options for coating include hot-dip Zinc, Zinc-Aluminum galvanization, epoxy, or resin, ensuring robust defense against weathering and moisture exposure.

The configuration of the mesh having horizontal and vertical bars arranged orthogonally. This structured framework significantly contributes to the overall stability of the slope. A critical factor in slope stabilization is the spacing between these horizontal and vertical bars, offering flexibility within the range of 25mm to 150mm or more to accommodate specific slope stabilization requirements and variations in terrain. The diameter of the bars falls within the range of about 4mm to 12mm, ensuring structural strength and stability crucial for withstanding the forces exerted on slopes.

Spiral wires used to connect consecutive mesh panels, contributing to the overall integrity and flexibility of the system. The primary function of these spiral wires is to link adjacent mesh panels, creating a continuous and flexible surface that allows the system to adapt to the natural contours of the slope. The diameter of these wires preferably ranges from 2mm to 10mm, providing the necessary strength and flexibility to facilitate a robust connection between mesh panels. The pitch, or the distance between consecutive spirals, is designed with consideration for optimal performance, ranging from 15mm to 60mm to accommodate variations based on the specific demands of the slope and anticipated stresses.

Spike plates used for securing the mesh to the slope, providing a stable foundation for the entire system. The primary purpose of spike plates is to anchor the mesh firmly to the slope, preventing displacement or failure. Equipped with a rotatable fixing means, spike plates engage with the bars of the mesh. This mechanism facilitates a secure and adjustable connection, allowing for precise installation and adaptation to slope variations. The rotating means on the spike plate enables the rotation of the fixing means, essential for efficient engagement and disengagement during installation, adjustment, or maintenance processes. Claws on the spike plate enhance the grip between the rebar mesh and the structure and/or slope, ensuring a robust and reliable connection that contributes to the overall stability and effectiveness of the system. Each clow, preferably has one or more sharp ends/spicks.

The spike plate features at least one hole that serves a specific purpose in facilitating further connections within the stabilization system. This hole acts as a point of connection for a connecting means, such as welding, screws or bolts, allowing for additional attachments that contribute to the overall structural integrity and adaptability of the system.

Rods or cables are used in enhancing stability by running between the edges of two mesh panels. These components serve to reinforce the connection between adjacent mesh panels, contributing to the overall stability of the system, especially in areas where additional support is required.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 discloses the meshes present in the prior art
FIG. 2(a) and 2(b) discloses the structure of the novel mesh with soil anchors for hill / cut slope stabilization
FIG. 3(a) discloses welded rebar mesh
FIG. 3(b) discloses spirals used to connect the consecutive mesh panels
FIG. 3(c) and 3(d) discloses spirals with or without cable used to connect the consecutive mesh panels
FIG. 4(a), 4(b) discloses the rear view and the front view of spike plates that helps welded rebar mesh to be pinned to the soil anchors
FIG. 4(c), 4(d) discloses the locking features of spike plates

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The present invention describes the subject matter for patenting with specificity to meet statutory requirements. However, the description itself is not intended to limit the scope of this patent application. The principles described herein may be embodied in many different forms.

Illustrative embodiments of the present invention now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all embodiments of the invention are shown. Indeed, the invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout.

The present invention describes a system for holding or stabilizing a hill / cut slope. The system, as in FIG 2(a)-(b), comprises of one or more rebar mesh (100) having bars/wires arranged in horizontal and vertical manner, said horizontal and vertical bars/wires are interconnected by any connecting means such as welding. Two rebar meshes (100) are connected through a spiral wire (101) which spiral over the last two horizontal or vertical bars/ wire located at the edges of two panels of the rebar mesh (100). Said spiral wire (101) enables the joints of the rebar mesh (100) to be stronger and flexible and allows to customize the length of the mesh (100). Said rebar mesh (100) are fixed to the surface or slope by one or more spike plates (102). The spike plates (102) have a body that can be in any shape such as rectangular, circular, oval, hexagon etc. The body of the spike plates (102) has one or more fixing means (200) to fix the spike plates (102) to the rebar mesh (100), and one or more claws (201) at the edges of the body of the spike plate (102) to fix the rebar mesh (100) and the spike plate (102) with the structure or the slope. Said fixing means (200) is a rotatable L shaped or hook in order to engage the spike plate (102) with the bars of the rebar mesh (100). The fixing means (200) can be rotated by a rotating means (202) located at the top side of the spike plate (102). Said spike plate (102) has at least one (300) for accommodating a connecting means (400) to the body, the mesh and the structure or the slope. The connecting means (400) can be a screw or a nut and bolt system or a nail.

To enhance durability and corrosion resistance, both the rebar mesh (100) and the accompanying spike plates (102) undergo galvanization. The galvanization process involves compounds selected from Zinc, Zinc Aluminum, Zinc Ammonium Chloride fluxes, or other alloys, epoxy, or resins. This ensures corrosion resistance, longer durability, and sustained performance.
Two meshes (100) are connected through spiral wires (101) that spiral over the last two horizontal or vertical bars/wires located at the edges of two panels of the rebar mesh (100). This innovative approach strengthens the joints of the rebar mesh (100), adding flexibility, and allows customization of the mesh length. The diameter of the spiral wire (101) ranges from 2mm to 10mm, with a preferred measurement of 4mm. The pitch of the spiral wire (101) ranges between 15mm to 60mm, with a preferred measurement of 25mm, ensuring adaptability to specific slope requirements.
The rebar mesh (100) is affixed to the slope or structure using one or more spike plates (102). The spike plates (102) have a body that can take various shapes, including rectangular, circular, oval, hexagonal, etc. The body of the spike plates (102) features one or more fixing means (200) to attach the spike plates (102) to the rebar mesh (100) and one or more claws (201) at the edges for securing the rebar mesh (100) and the spike plate (102) to the structure or slope. The fixing means (200) is a rotatable L-shaped or hook structure designed to engage with the bars of the rebar mesh (100). Rotation of the fixing means (200) is facilitated by a rotating means (202) located at the top side of the spike plate (102). The spike plate (102) also includes at least one hole (300) for accommodating a connecting means (400) to the body, the mesh, and the structure or slope. The connecting means (400) can be a screw, a nut and bolt system, or a nail.
As disclosed in FIG. 3(a)-(d), the connection between two panel rebar meshes (100) involves a rod or cable (500) running between the two horizontal or vertical bars/wires located at the edges of two panels of the rebar mesh (100). This rod or cable (500) assists in fixing the rebar mesh (100) panels tightly on the structure or slope.
FIG. 4(a)-(d) discloses the rotating means (202) located at the top side of the spike plate (102). This rotating means (202) can take various shapes, such as rod-shaped, key head-shaped, star-shaped, etc. FIG. 4(c) and 4(d) illustrate a two-step process to fix the fixing means (200) to the mesh (100). The rotating means (202) connects to the fixing means (200), allowing the user to rotate the fixing means (200) to either lock the spike plate (102) on the rebar mesh (100) or unlock the spike plate (102) from the rebar mesh (100).
ADVANTAGES OF THE PRESENT INVENTION:
? The system of present invention are galvanized using Zinc (minimum 500 GSM) coating thus corrosion protection is assured to increase durability of the system. Good galvanization improves the longevity and long-term performance.

? It is manufactured in panels which are easy to handle and install at site.

? Spirals are used to join the panels, thus length can be increase with ease. Spirals make the joints stronger and flexible.

? The problems associated with the settlement and deformation is resolved due to the use of spirals as connectors between the panels. It makes the system more flexible.

? Cables are used to tighten the mesh, can easily pass through the spirals thus the installation methodology becomes simple.

? Spike plates help to fix the system tightly on the sloped surface of loose soil layers.

? Spike plates remain attached to the welded rebar mesh making the load transfer mechanism more efficient.
Some of the features of the present invention which compare with prior art are shown here below in table 1:

SI No Particulars Conventional/prior art Current invention
01 Facia unit Wire mesh is used as a drap to control erosion. It is available in entire rolls of different sizes. The diameter of wire remains 2 to 4mm. It is galvanized by Zinc-Aluminum coating of less than 300 GSM. Welded rebar mesh panel(s) is used as facia membrane and it is manufactured in panels. The rebar mesh panels of same/different sizes are made which are connected by spiral means.

Galvanization is done by Zinc coating making it more resistant to corrosion and ensuring longer durability and long-term performance.
02 Stitching Stitching is done either by clipping or just by overlap. Therefore, joints are weak zones. Spiral means are used to connect the panels. Spiral could be with or without a cable as per necessity. Thus, the joints are stronger and flexible and manufactured as per the requirement. The panels can be used in any combination (big or small of different gauges) for example stronger panels are at the bottom and lighter panels on the top.
03 Fixing arrangement
No properly defined arrangements are used without any fixing arrangement to connect to the soil. Spike plates are attached to the rebar mesh panels and the panels are connected to the soil anchors through spike plates. This makes the load transfer mechanism more efficient.
04 Cable Connection Cables are connected with nail head. Cable is integral part of the spiral and the load is transferred through spiral to the rebar mesh.
05 Durability The convention mesh is less durable due to its construction and can bear less load The present system is much durable and can withstand most stress/load. The present system is able to withstand 2 to 5 times more load/weight bearing and capable of 2 to 3 times more life than the conventional mesh of the same gauge, material and in the same working environment.
,CLAIMS:We Claim:
1. A system for holding or stabilizing hill/cut slope, said system comprising a plurality of horizontal bars (80) and vertical bars (90), which form one or more mesh panels (100),
one or more spiral wires (101) to connect consecutive mesh panels (100), said spiral wires (101) wound over two or more horizontal or vertical bars at the edges of the mesh panels (100);
one or more spike plates (102), each spike plate comprising at least one hole (300), one or more rotating means (202) and one or more claws (201);
one or more connecting means (400) for connecting the mesh panels (100) to the hill/cut slope, each connecting means comprises a rod having a head at one end for holding each spike plate (102) through the hole (300) and the mesh panels (100).

2. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the mesh (100) is made of materials selected from steel, plastic, alloys, or iron, coated with substances like hot dip Zinc, Zinc Aluminum galvanization, epoxy, or resin for corrosion resistance.

3. The system as claimed in any one of claims 1 -2, wherein the mesh (100) bars are arranged orthogonally with a spacing of 25mm to 175mm, preferably 50mm to 150mm and a diameter of 2mm to 20mm, preferably 4mm to 12mm.

4. The system as claimed in any one of claims 1 -3, wherein the spiral wires (101) connecting mesh panels have a diameter of 2mm to 10mm and a pitch of 15mm to 60mm.

5. The system as claimed any one of claims 1 -4, wherein the rotating means (202) is a rod-shaped, key head-shaped, or star-shaped element.

6. The system as claimed in any one of claims 1 -5, wherein the fixing means (200) is a rotatable L-shaped or hook element engaging with the mesh panels (100).

7. The system as claimed in any one of claims 1 -6, wherein the claws (201) on the spike plate (102) secure the mesh panels (100) and spike plates (102) to the hill/cut slope.

8. The system as claimed in any one of claims 1 -7, wherein the spike plate (102) is in the shape of an expend cup having top and bottom sides, the hole (300) is at the centre of the spike plate (102), the rotating means (202) and claws (201) are arranged at the bottom side of the spike plate (102), thickness and size of the spike plate (102) can vary depending on the requirements.

9. The system as claimed in any one of claims 1 -8, further comprising rods or cables (500) running between the edges of two mesh panels (100) for providing additional stability to the mesh panels on the hill/cut slope.

10. The system as claimed in any one of claims 1 -9, wherein the components of the system such as horizontal/vertical bars (80, 90), mesh panels (100), spike plates (102), spiral wires (101), connecting means (400) and rods /cables (500) can be made of any suitable material such as metals, alloys such as steel, polymers, glass or carbon fibres or mixtures thereof. Preferably, the polymers can be homo or co-polymers.

11. The system as claimed in any one of claims 1-10, wherein each connecting means (400) comprises a rod having a head at one end for holding each spike plate (102) through the hole (300) and the mesh panels (100), and the other part of the rod is of various shape, size and length.