Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a structure for reinforcing granular materials, such as sand or small sized gravel, used in construction of roads and foundations, and more specifically to reinforce sand and small gravel by placing the textured mesh structure in between beds of the materials.

BACKGROUND
[0002] Generally, geogrids (hereinafter also referred to as mesh structures in this document) have multiple benefits and are used in various type of civil engineering construction applications. A mesh structure (geogrid) is typically a geosynthetic material consisting of connected parallel set of tensile units (referred to as ribs) with an aperture of a sufficient size to allow strike-through of the surrounding soil, gravel, etc., or any other geotechnical materials. These mesh structures are designed to provide reinforcement, stability, filtration etc., when used with properly sized aggregate fills. These mesh structures involved extruding molten plastic into grid patterns and are generally made from polypropylene, polyethylene or polyester and widely used in civil engineering applications.
[0003] Mesh structures are deployed for example in building firm working surfaces over soft ground conditions, enhance the life of the structure and provide a long service life. Such mesh structures are typically used in construction of roads, pavements, retaining walls and foundations. The mesh structures normally work by providing reinforcement to surface (soil) through their tensile resistance and interlocking the granular structure or soil material placed over them, and the open aperture of the mesh structure allows for confining material within and increasing the shear strength of the overlying granular fill.
[0004] Different types of mesh structures may be used in the construction for example uniaxial structures, biaxial structures triaxial etc. Mesh structures are used to provide dependable results for soil reinforcement, earth retention, soil erosion control etc. Though square biaxial geogrids are commonly used, triangular and hexagonal mesh structures are also finding increasing use. Currently available structures (geogrids) of different shapes for soil reinforcement consists of a smooth surface. Though the shape of the apertures for these mesh structures has evolved considerably, the surface of these polymeric mesh structures has remained largely unchanged and having a textured surface will provide numerous advantages in terms of their interactions with soils and providing stability to the construction structure. Thus, there is a need to overcome some of the limitations in these mesh structures available in the prior art.

SUMMARY
[0005] Embodiments of the present disclosure a structure (single unit of a geogrid) which includes a plurality of units wherein each of the plurality of units has a base structure with a predefined length, a predefined height and a predefined width. In a further embodiment, the base structure is provided with a plurality of predefined pattern structures along the length on a first surface and/or a second surface, wherein the second surface is opposite to the first surface and wherein the plurality of predefined pattern structure extends across the width of the base structure. A further embodiment includes a unit grid structure formed by combining a plurality of units in a predetermined manner. A further embodiment includes a unit mesh structure formed by combining a plurality of unit grid structure. A further embodiment includes a bed structure formed by a plurality of mesh structures wherein the plurality of mesh structures is sandwiched between a first sand bed and a second sand bed. In a further embodiment multiple such layers may be formed for the sand bed in a civil engineering application. Other embodiments are also disclosed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0006] The detailed description is described with reference to the accompanying figures. Features, aspects, and advantages of the subject matter of the present disclosure will be better understood with regard to the following description and the accompanying drawings. The figures are intended to be illustrative, not limiting, and are generally described in context of the embodiments, and it should be understood that it is not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure to these particular embodiments. In the figures, the same numbers may be used throughout the drawings to reference features and components. In order that the present disclosure may be readily understood and put into practical effect, reference will now be made to exemplary embodiments as illustrated with reference to the accompanying figures. The figures together with detailed description below, are incorporated in and form part of the specification, and serve to further illustrate the embodiments and explain various principles and advantages.
[0007] Figure 1A illustrates an exemplary unit 100A which forms a base for building the mesh structure in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0008] Figure 1B illustrates another exemplary unit 100B which forms a base for building the mesh structure in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0009] Figure 1C illustrates an exemplary unit 100C wherein two-units 100A are joined forming an anchor point for the grid structure in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0010] Figure 1D illustrates an exemplary structure 100D formed by joining multiple units 100A, 100B for creating the grid structure in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0011] Figure 1E illustrates an exemplary structure 100E illustrating the two surfaces, a first plane and a second plane which is opposite to the first plane, for the grid structure in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0012] Figure 1F illustrates an exemplary part of unit 100A illustrating a pictorial representation of the pattern on unit 100A in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0013] Figure 1G illustrates an exemplary part of a supporting structure of Figure 1D formed at the joint between two units in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0014] Figure 1H illustrates an exemplary pictorial representation of a grid structure formed by additive manufacturing in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0015] Figure 2A illustrates an exemplary square grid structure 200A with an inclined pattern on the unit in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0016] Figure 2B illustrates an exemplary mesh grid structure 200B with a inclined pattern on the unit in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0017] Figure 3A illustrates an exemplary a triangular grid structure 300A with an inclined pattern on the unit in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0018] Figure 3B illustrates an exemplary mesh grid structure 300B with a inclined pattern on the unit in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0019] Figure 4A illustrates an exemplary a hexagonal grid structure 400A with an inclined pattern on the unit in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0020] Figure 4B illustrates an exemplary mesh grid structure 400B with an inclined pattern on the unit in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0021] Figure 5 is an exemplary bed structure 500 using the mesh grid structure in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0022] Figures 6A illustrates an exemplary measurement of the bearing pressure versus footing settlement response for unreinforced sand bed and reinforcements for a first mesh structure in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0023] Figures 6B illustrates another exemplary measurement 600B of the bearing pressure versus footing settlement response for unreinforced sand bed and reinforcements for a square grid mesh structure in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0024] Figures 6C illustrates another exemplary measurement 600B of the bearing pressure versus footing settlement response for unreinforced sand bed and reinforcements for a triangular grid mesh structure in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0025] Figures 6D illustrates another exemplary measurement 600B of the bearing pressure versus footing settlement response for unreinforced sand bed and reinforcements for a hexagonal grid mesh structure in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0026] Figure 7 illustrates an exemplary measurement for bearing capacity ratio versus footing settlement for different types of unit mesh structures with a texture of the different pattern structures in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0027] The following describes technical solutions in exemplary embodiments of the subject matter of the present disclosure with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this application as disclosed herein, "at least one" means one or more, and "a plurality of" means two or more. The term "and/or" describes an association relationship for describing associated objects and represents that three relationships may exist. For example, A and/or B may represent the following cases: Only A exists, both A and B exist, and only B exists, where A and B may be singular or plural. The character "/" usually indicates an "or" relationship between the associated objects. "At least one item (piece) of the following" or a similar expression thereof means any combination of the items, including any combination of singular items (piece) or plural items (pieces). For example, at least one item (piece) of a, b, or c may represent a, b, c, a and b, a and c, b and c, or a, b, and c, where a, b, and c each may be singular or plural.
[0028] It should be noted that in this application articles “a”, “an” and “the” are used to refer to one or to more than one (i.e., to at least one) of the grammatical object of the article. The terms “comprise” and “comprising” are used in the inclusive, open sense, meaning that additional elements may be included. It is not intended to be construed as “consists of only”. Throughout this specification defined above, unless the context requires otherwise the word “comprise”, and variations such as “comprises” and “comprising”, will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element or step or group of elements or steps but not the exclusion of any other element or step or group of elements or steps. The term “including” is used to mean “including but not limited to”. “Including” and “including but not limited to” are used interchangeably. In the structural formulae given herein and throughout the present disclosure, the following terms have been indicated meaning, unless specifically stated otherwise.
[0029] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in the disclosure, including technical and scientific terms, have meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. By means of further guidance, term definitions are included for better understanding of the present disclosure. The term ‘about’ as used herein when referring to a measurable value such as a parameter, an amount, a temporal duration, and the like, is meant to encompass variations of ±10% or less, preferably ±5% or less, more preferably ±1% or less and still more preferably ±0.1% or less of and from the specified value, insofar such variations are appropriate to perform the present disclosure. It is to be understood that the value to which the modifier ‘about’ refers is itself also specifically, and preferably disclosed.
[0030] It should be noted that in this application, the term such as "example" or "for example" or “exemplary” is used to represent giving an example, an illustration, or descriptions. Any embodiment or design scheme described as an "example" or "for example" in this application should not be explained as being more preferable or having more advantages than another embodiment or design scheme. Exactly, use of the word such as "example" or "for example" is intended to present a related concept in only a specific manner.
[0031] It should be understood that in the embodiments of the present subject matter that "B corresponding to A" indicates that B is associated with A, and B can be determined based on A. However, it should be further understood that determining B based on A does not mean that B is determined based on only A. B may alternatively be determined based on A and/or other information.
[0032] In the embodiments of this application, "a plurality of" means two or more than two. Descriptions such as "first", "second" in the embodiments of this application are merely used for indicating and distinguishing between described objects, do not show a sequence, do not indicate a specific limitation on a quantity of devices in the embodiments of this application, and do not constitute any limitation on the embodiments of this application.
[0033] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure relate to structure 100D including plurality of units 100A, 100B. In an exemplary embodiment, each plurality of units 100A, 100AB includes at least base structure 101 wherein base structure 101 has predefined or predetermined length 107, predefined or predetermined height 108 and predefined or predetermined width 109. In an exemplary embodiment, length 107, height 108 and width 109 of each plurality of units 101 may be chosen based on the application or the end use of the mesh structure (referred to also as textured mesh structures or geogrids). In an exemplary embodiment, base structure 101 may be provided with plurality of predefined pattern structures 114. In an exemplary embodiment, predefined pattern structures 114 extend along entire length 107 of unit 101 on first surface 152 and/or second surface 154. In an exemplary embodiment, plurality of predefined pattern structure 114 extends across width 109 of base 101.
[0034] In an exemplary embodiment, pattern 114 (reference to pattern made in this document refers to a plurality of predefined patterns, which is generally referred to as pattern(s)) may be made of different shapes. In an exemplary embodiment, patterns 114 may be inclined lines or diamond shapes, or circular shape or rectangular shape or polygonal shape. In an exemplary embodiment, the pattern may be inclined in the range of 30 degrees to about 70 degrees. It should be obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art that the shape and size of the patterns may vary with a variation in inclination of the pattern on the base, and all such variations fall within the scope of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, the length, width, and height of the structure may vary according to the application where the structure is used.
[0035] In an exemplary embodiment, pattern 114 may be provided above base 101 and patterns 114 may have predefined height 111 above base 101. In an exemplary embodiment, when the mesh structure is used to reinforce sand, the mesh structure or each of the unit grid structures used to make the mesh structure may have varying heights between 0.4 mm to about 1 mm, and these texture heights may be considered based on the average diameter of sand particle, which is in the range of about 0.7 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, the mesh structures having a height of pattern 114 (surface texture) greater than the average diameter of sand may result in higher load bearing capacity. In an exemplary embodiment, therefore, considering sand the height of the pattern may be in the range of about 75 microns to about 7 mm. It should be obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art that when other particles like gravel are used, the height of the patterned structure may vary accordingly, and all such variations fall within the scope of the present disclosure.
[0036] In an exemplary embodiment, plurality of units 100A, 100B may be affixed in a predetermined design or predefined design. In an exemplary embodiment, patterns 114 may be formed above base 101, and patterns 114 may have predetermined height 111. In an exemplary embodiment, height 111 of pattern 114 may be shorter than height 108 of base 101. It should be obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art that the pattern (texture) may be formed on base 101, and pattern 114 and may be one side 152 of base 101 and/or on both sides 152, 154 of base 101. In an exemplary embodiment, if first surface 152 points in an upward direction then second surface 154, which is opposite first surface 152, will point in a downward direction. In an exemplary embodiment, pattern 114 may be formed on a first side 152 or on a second side 154 or on both sides 152, 154.
[0037] In an exemplary embodiment, each unit 101 has a first end 103A and a second end 103B. In an exemplary embodiment, first end 103A of first unit 101A may be affixed to second end 105A of second unit 101B forming joint 113. Joint 113 is common to first unit 101A and to unit 101B. In an exemplary embodiment, first unit 101A and second unit 101B may have the same texture or pattern 114. In an exemplary embodiment, first unit 101A and second unit 101B may have different patterns 114. In an exemplary embodiment, first unit 101A may include inclined line patterns and second unit 101B may include diamond shaped patterns. It should be obvious to a person of ordinary skill that the formation of joint 113 is only illustrative in nature and joint 113 and units 101 are formed together either by means of a mould or by additive manufacturing methods. Similarly, the free end 103B and 105B of unit 101 may be coupled to another unit 101 forming a desired pattern, for example a triangle, a square, polygonal shape etc.
[0038] In an exemplary embodiment, common joint 113 between first unit 101A and second unit 101B is provided with supporting structure 116 (also referred to as an anchor in this document). In an exemplary embodiment, supporting structure 116 may have extended base 132 which is formed on base 101. In an exemplary embodiment, extended base 132 may be at least equal to height 108 of base 101. In an exemplary embodiment, supporting structure 116 may have tapering structure 135 from base 132 in an upward direction forming tip 137, considering supporting structure 116 is on the side facing the top, i.e., vertically upward. In an exemplary embodiment, height 137 of supporting structure 116 includes height 108 of base plus height 133 of tapering structure 135. In an exemplary embodiment, height 133 of tapering structure 135 of supporting structure 116 may be higher than or equal to height 111 of patterned structure 114 (patterns and/or textures).
[0039] In an exemplary embodiment, predefined pattern structure 114 may be inclined strokes and/or cross lines and/or diamond shaped and/or polygonal shaped or any other shape with an inclination of the being in a range of about 30 degrees to about 70 degrees. In a preferred embodiment, pattern 114 may have an inclination between 40 – 50 degrees. In an exemplary embodiment, pattern 114 stretches along length 107 of unit 101A, 100B, and across width 109 of the unit 101A, 101B. In an exemplary embodiment, pattern 114 may be formed on first surface 152 and/or on second surface 154, where in a XY plane if first surface 152 when placed in a horizontal position points in an upward direction, vertically pointing towards the top, then in the same plane, second surface 154 points in a downward direction, i.e., pointing vertically downwards. In an exemplary embodiment, supporting structures 116 may be provided on first surface 152 and/or on second surface 154 or may be provided on either first surface 152 or second surface 154. Providing supporting structure 116 on both first surface 152 and second surface 154, especially when both first surface and second surface are patterned 114, provides greater strength and stability of the mesh structure.
[0040] In an exemplary embodiment, unit grid structure 160, 170, 180 may be formed by the combining plurality of units 100A, 100B in a predetermined or predefined manner, where plurality of unit has been discussed previously. In an exemplary embodiment, unit mesh structure (mesh structure) 200B, 300B, 400B may be formed by combining plurality of unit grid structure 169, 179, 180, where plurality of units and unit grid structure have been discussed previously. In an exemplary embodiment, mesh structures 520 may be sandwiched between first sand bed 510 and second sand bed 530. In an exemplary embodiment, multiple layers of mesh structures may be sandwiched between multiple sand bed layers. In an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of units 100A, 100B with pattern 114 may be produced by a mould and/or through additive manufacturing. In an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of unit grid structures 160, 170, 180 with pattern 114 may be produced by a mould and/or through additive manufacturing. In an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of mesh structures 200B, 300B, 400B with pattern 114 may be produced by a mould and/or through additive manufacturing.
[0041] Reference is now made to Figure 1A, which illustrates an exemplary unit 100A which forms a base for building the mesh structure in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Unit 100A has base 101, which may be prepared by a mold or by additive manufacturing techniques. Base 101 has length 107 defined by first end 103 and second end 105. Base 101 has width 109 and height 108. Length 107, width 109 and height 108 of unit 100A may be predetermined or predefined depending on the type of application and/or use of unit 100A and/or of a mesh structure that may be formed by multiple pieces of unit 100A joined together in a predetermined manner to provide a predetermined mesh structure. Base 101 has pattern 114 (also referred to as predefined pattern structure or textures or predefined textures) formed on first surface 115. Second surface 117 of base 101 is opposite to first surface 115 and may also have pattern 114 or may be plain, depending on the application and use of unit 100A. Surface 111 and surface 112 of base 101 which are towards the sides may or may not have any pattern 114.
[0042] In an exemplary case, pattern 114 may also be formed on the side surfaces 111 and 112. In exemplary case, considering the XY plane (two dimensional plane), if first surface 115 is considered to as pointing in a top or vertically upward direction, then second surface 117 is considered to be in a direction opposite first surface 115 and points in a bottom or vertically downward direction. Pattern 114 may be made to project outwards from first surface 115 and/or second surface 117. In an exemplary case if all four surfaces of unit 100A, i.e., first surface 115, second surface 117, third surface 111 and fourth surface 112 have patterns 114, then pattern 114 are made such that pattern 114 always projects in an outward direction from the respective surface. Pattern 114 may be spaced equidistant and/or may be formed at different predetermined distances and/or may be a combination of equidistant and predetermined different distances formed along length 107 of unit 100A.
[0043] In an exemplary case, unit 100A may be made from polymers or metals or organic materials or inorganic materials or naturally occurring materials such as wood. In an exemplary embodiment material such as polypropylene, polyethylene, or polyester may be used to manufacture or produce unit 100A, and it should be obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art that several other materials may be used to make unit 100A. Advantageously, unit 100A produced in accordance with the present disclosure provides better reinforcement and high stability when used in civil engineering works, for example for building sand beds as a base for making roads or buildings or any form of construction applications. In an exemplary case, in road construction work, a plurality of unit 100A of predefined length may be manufactured and placed in rows and/or columns providing reinforcement and stability to a bed structure. In an exemplary case, plurality of units 100A may be joined together to form a predetermined structure and these structures may be used for the purpose of reinforcement. Length 107, width 109 and height 108 of unit 100A may be variable and may vary depending on the application and use. It should be obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art that many different variation of unit 100A may be devised wherein unit 100A has pattern 114 on one of multiple surfaces, having varying length, width, and height, and all such variations fall within the scope of the present disclosure.
[0044] Reference is now made to Figure 1B, which illustrates another exemplary unit 100B which forms a base for building the mesh structure in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. All elements in Figure 1B will be similar to Figure 1A and have been discussed previously with respect to Figure 1A. Additionally, Figure 1B illustrates a variant of unit 100A, where pattern 114 may be formed on multiple surfaces. In an exemplary case, a first type of pattern 114 may be formed on a first surface 115 and the same pattern or a different pattern may be formed on the opposite surface 117. In an exemplary case, third surface 111 and/or fourth surface 112, which form the sides of unit 100B may also be provided with pattern 114. By providing pattern 114 on all four surfaces of unit 100B, the durability, reinforcement strength and stability of unit 100B is highly enhanced.
[0045] Reference is now made to Figure 1C, which illustrates an exemplary unit 100C wherein two-units 100A, 100B are joined forming an anchor point for creating the mesh structure in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As illustrated in Figure 1C, first unit 101A has first end 103A and second end 103B. Second unit 101B has first end 105A and second end 105B. First unit 101A and second unit 101B have pattern 114. Pattern 114 may be different or similar in nature, and pattern 114 may be on either one surface or multiple surfaces. First end 103A of first unit 101A and first end 105A of second unit 101B may be joined in a predetermined manner forming joint 113. Joint 113 is provided with supporting structure 116, and joint 113 between first unit 101A and second unit 101B is seamless. Joint 113 formed between first unit 101A and second unit 101B is at the same height of the units.
[0046] For purpose of illustration, first unit 101A and second unit 101B are shown with different patterns. In an exemplary embodiment, first unit 101A and second unit 101B may have the same pattern. It should be obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art that variation in pattern 114 may occur for the plurality of units joined together to form a gird structure and/or a mesh structure. In an exemplary embodiment, the units may be prepared by way of a mold or by additive manufacturing techniques.
[0047] Reference is now made to Figure 1D, which illustrates an exemplary structure 100D formed by joining multiple units 100A, 100B for creating a grid structure in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As illustrated in an exemplary embodiment, structure 100D includes a triangular structure and a square structure. It should be obvious that various other grid structures may be formed using unit 100A, 100B And all such variations of grid structures formed fall within the scope of the present disclosure.
[0048] In the exemplary case of forming a triangular structure, which may be produced or manufactured using a mold or additive manufacturing, three units 100A, 100B, having pattern 114 at least on one surface of each of the units are joined together. First unit 101A, second unit 101B and third unit 101C having pattern 114 on at least one surface and/or multiple surfaces are joined to form a triangular shape. The angles of the triangular shape formed by each unit may be predetermined or predefined. In an exemplary case, each triangular structure may be an equilateral triangle or an isosceles triangle or a scalene triangle or an acute triangle or a right angled triangle or an obtuse triangle. Each vertex of the triangle, where joint 113 (only one joint is illustrated) occurs is provided with supporting structure 116. In an exemplary embodiment, predetermined or predefined locations may also be selected on unit 100A, 100B wherein supporting structure may be formed, wherein the predetermined locations. In another exemplary embodiment, a square or rectangular grid structure consists of four units, first unit 101A, second unit 101B, third unit 101C and fourth unit 101D, where all four units are joined at right angles. If the length of each of the four units is equivalent, a square grid structure is formed. If the length of two units of the four units are equivalent, then depending on the position of the units, either a rectangular grid structure may be formed or a quadrilateral shaped grid structure may be formed. It should be obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art that by varying the number of units, a different type of grid structure may be formed, and all such grid structures fall within the scope of the present disclosure.
[0049] In an exemplary embodiment, each supporting structure 116 at joint 113 is at least equal to or higher than the height of pattern 114 on the surface. In an exemplary case, if base is of height X, and pattern 114 is of height Y, then total height of unit with pattern may be Z which is a sum of the height of the base and the height of the pattern. In an exemplary case, if W is the height of the supporting structure, the W = Z, where Z is defined as the height of the unit. Height of the joint will be the same as the height of the base, i.e., if the height of joint is V, the height at the joint X = V, and V < X + Y. Supporting structure 116 as illustrated has a base and a tapering structure from the base in an outward direction from the base of unit.
[0050] Reference is now made to Figure 1E, which illustrates an exemplary structure 100E illustrating the two surfaces, a first plane and a second plane which is opposite to the first plane, for the grid structure in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Each gird structure 100E may be formed by a mold or by additive manufacturing techniques. As illustrated in Figure 1E, an exemplary square grid structure has been considered. The square grid structure has four units and each of the four units has a pattern 114, which may be the same or different. The first plane 152 shows one surface of the grid structure, where first plane 152 points in a vertically upward direction, and the central portion is hollow. In an exemplary case, the entire mesh structure instead of units 100A, 100B, may be produced as sheets, wherein the sheets have patterns as disclosed previously, and it should be obvious that all such variations fall within the scope of the present disclosure. The grid structure shows pattern 114 on all four units and as mentioned previously, pattern 114 may be similar on all four units or may be different on all four units or may have multiple variances of pattern 114.
[0051] Second plane 154 is the plane opposite to first plane and illustrates the bottom side of the four units, each of the units having a pattern that may be the same or different or have combinations of different variations of patterns. At joint 113 on each of first plane 152 and second plane 154, supporting structures 116 are provided. The direction of the arrow indicates the plane. The arrow point outwards indicates first plane 152 and the arrow point away indicates second plane 154, second plane 154 is opposite to first plane 152. In an exemplary embodiment, units 100A, 100B may be provided across the square, in different orientations, wherein pattern 114 may be on units on first plane 152 or on second plane 154 or on both planes, thereby creating different variants of the grid structure. In an exemplary embodiment, a square grid structure may be provided with a star grid structure within the square grid structure. Several other different variations in design of the grid structures may be possible and it should be obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art that all such variations fall within the scope of the present disclosure.
[0052] Reference is now made to Figure 1F, which illustrates an exemplary part of unit 100A illustrating a pictorial representation of the pattern 114 on unit 100A in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In the exemplary case a part of unit 100A is illustrated, where unit 100A has width 109 and height 108. Unit 100A can be of varying length as discussed previously. On the base height, i.e., height 108 of unit 101A, various types of patterns 114 may be formed. Pattern 114 has height 111, which is above height 108 of unit base. In an exemplary embodiment, if unit 101A has height 108 of X mm/cm, then pattern 114 is formed above height 108 of X mm/cm, where pattern 114 has height of Y mm/cm. Pattern 114 with height 111, i.e., Y mm/cm is inclined at an angle in the range of 30 degrees or about 70 degrees depending on the application and/or use requirements. In a preferred embodiment, the angle of inclination of pattern 114 is in a range of about 40 – 50 degrees from the horizontal base. However, it should be obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art that the inclination may deviate from the preferred embodiment mentioned herein and may be anywhere in the range cited between 30 degrees to 70 degrees depending on the application and/or use and the materials that needs to be reinforced. As illustrated in exemplary Figure 1E, pattern 114 is diamond shaped, and is only for the purpose of illustration and it should be obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art that various other shapes, such an line, crisscross lines, triangle, circular, quadrilateral, polygonal etc., or a combination of these shapes may be accommodated having an inclination angle as mentioned above depending on the application and/or use of the grid structure and the material to be reinforced.
[0053] Reference is now made to Figure 1G, which illustrates an exemplary part of a supporting structure of Figure 1D formed at the joint between two units in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Supporting structure 116 is formed at joint 113 and supporting structure 116 has extended base 132 at joint 113. Extended base 132 has height 108, which is equivalent to the height of the unit. Tapering structure 133, for example a conical structure, is formed on extended base 132, having base 135 and tapering edge 137, having height 134. Total height 136 of supporting structure 116 is sum of height 108 of extended base and height 134 of tapering structure. Supporting structure is therefore at least equal in height to the height 111 of pattern 114 or greater than height 111 of pattern 114. In an exemplary embodiment, if X is the height of the extended base and Y is the height of the pattern, then the height Z of the supporting structure may be given by the simple equation Z = X + Y. Supporting structure 116 acts as anchor points for the grid structure.
[0054] Reference is now made to Figure 1H, which illustrates an exemplary pictorial representation of a grid structure formed by additive manufacturing in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. An exemplary embodiment illustrates square grid structure 160, triangular grid structure 170 and hexagonal grid structure 180. In each of the grid structures diamond shaped patterns 114 and supporting structure 116 are illustrated. Units forming the grid structure, patterns and supporting structure have been previously disclosed. As illustrated these grid structures have been produced by additive manufacturing, which includes lying down and bonding many successive layers of a material to achieve the desired shape. It should be obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art that various other shapes and patterns may be manufactured or produced by additive manufacturing, and all such variations fall within the scope of the present disclosure. Additive manufacturing may be used to produce single gird structures or combine a plurality of grid structures to form a mesh structure. In another exemplary embodiment, molds of a desired shape and size may be made to produce the desired shape and size of a gird or a plurality of grids.
[0055] Figure 2A illustrates an exemplary a square grid structure 200A with an inclined pattern on the unit in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In the exemplary case, formation of square grid pattern 200A has been disclosed previously. Each square grid structure will consist of patterns 114 on one surface or multiple surfaces as required, and each joint in the of the square grid structure is provided with supporting structure 116. Units, patterns and supporting structures have been disclosed previously. As disclosed previously, the length, height and width of each unit may be variable, and the shape and size of the patterns formed on the unit may also vary. The patterns may be formed on either one surface or on multiple surfaces, including the sides, providing better reinforcement and stability.
[0056] Figure 2B illustrates an exemplary quadrilateral mesh grid structure 200B with an inclined pattern on the unit in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The quadrilateral mesh grid structure 200B may be formed using additive manufacturing or by using a mould. The quadrilateral mesh grid structure 200B consists of a plurality of grid structure 200A arranged in an array, wherein the size and shape of the array may depend on the application and/or use of the mesh grid structure. As illustrated quadrilateral mesh grid structure 200B has inclined lines pattern 214 and supporting structures 216 at each joint in the mesh structure. It should be obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art that various other specific patterns and/or multiple patterns may be formed on the quadrilateral mesh grid structure 200B. Patterns 214 and supporting structures 316 are illustrated only on one surface (facing vertically upwards) for the quadrilateral mesh grid structure 200B. However, it should be obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art that patterns 214 and supporting structure 216 may be formed on the bottom side of the quadrilateral mesh grid structure 200B, and also along the other sides of the quadrilateral mesh grid structure 200B. The quadrilateral mesh grid structure 200B may be a square grid mesh structure or a rectangular grid mesh structure or may be of any other form. The quadrilateral mesh grid structure 200B as illustrated may also be provided with units within each grid structure or within selected grid structures depending on the application and/or use of the quadrilateral mesh grid structure 200B.
[0057] Figure 3A illustrates an exemplary a triangular grid structure 300A with an inclined pattern on the unit in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In the exemplary case, formation of triangular grid pattern 300A has been disclosed previously. Each triangular grid structure will consist of patterns 314 on one surface and/or multiple surfaces as required, and each joint in the of the triangular grid structure is provided with supporting structure 116. Units, patterns and supporting structures have been disclosed previously. As disclosed previously, the length, height and width of each unit may be variable, and the shape and size of the patterns formed on the unit may also vary. The patterns may be formed on either one surface or on multiple surfaces, including the sides, providing better reinforcement and stability.
[0058] Figure 3B illustrates an exemplary mesh grid structure 300B with an inclined pattern on the unit in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The triangular mesh grid structure 300B may be formed using additive manufacturing or by using a mould. The triangular mesh grid structure 300B consists of a plurality of grid structure 300A arranged in an array, wherein the size and shape of the array may depend on the application and/or use of the mesh grid structure. As illustrated triangular mesh grid structure 300B has inclined lines pattern 314 and supporting structures 316 at each joint in the mesh structure. It should be obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art that various other specific patterns and/or multiple patterns may be formed on the triangular mesh grid structure 300B. Patterns 314 and supporting structures 316 are illustrated only on one surface (facing vertically upwards) for the triangular mesh grid structure 300B. However, it should be obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art that patterns 314 and supporting structure 316 may be formed on the bottom side of the triangular mesh grid structure 300B, and also along the other sides of the triangular mesh grid structure 300B. The triangular mesh grid structure 200B as illustrated may also be provided with units within each grid structure or within selected grid structures depending on the application and/or use of the triangular mesh grid structure 300B.
[0059] Figure 4A illustrates an exemplary a hexagonal grid structure 400A with an inclined pattern on the unit in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In the exemplary case, formation of triangular grid pattern 300A has been disclosed previously. Each hexagonal grid structure will consist of patterns 314 on one surface and/or multiple surfaces as required, and each joint in the of the hexagonal grid structure is provided with supporting structure 116. Units, patterns and supporting structures have been disclosed previously. As disclosed previously, the length, height and width of each unit may be variable, and the shape and size of the patterns formed on the unit may also vary. The patterns may be formed on either one surface or on multiple surfaces, including the sides, providing better reinforcement and stability.
[0060] Figure 4B illustrates an exemplary mesh grid structure 400B with an inclined pattern on the unit in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The polygonal (in this exemplary case hexagonal) mesh grid structure 400B may be formed using additive manufacturing or by using a mould. The polygonal mesh grid structure 300B consists of a plurality of grid structure 400A arranged in an array, wherein the size and shape of the array may depend on the application and/or use of the mesh grid structure. As illustrated polygonal mesh grid structure 400B has inclines lines pattern 414 and supporting structures 416 at each joint in the mesh structure. It should be obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art that various other specific patterns and/or multiple patterns may be formed on the polygonal mesh grid structure 400B. Patterns 414 and supporting structures 416 are illustrated only on one surface (facing vertically upwards) for the polygonal mesh grid structure 400B. However, it should be obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art that patterns 414 and supporting structure 416 may be formed on the bottom side of the polygonal mesh grid structure 400B, and also along the other sides of the polygonal mesh grid structure 400B. The polygonal mesh grid structure 400B as illustrated may also be provided with units within each grid structure or within selected grid structures depending on the application and/or use of the polygonal mesh grid structure 400B.
[0061] Figure 5 is an exemplary bed structure 500 using the mesh grid structure in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In an exemplary case a mesh structure 520 is sandwiched between a first sand bed 510 below the mesh structure 520 and second sand bed 530 above mesh structure 520. Because of the patterns 114 and supporting structure 116 on both sides of the mesh structure and/or additionally on the sides of the mesh structure, better reinforcement and stability is provided to the sand beds. In a further embodiment, multiple layers of sand beds may be sandwiched between multiple mesh structure layers. In an exemplary embodiment, not shown in the Figure, a second mesh structure may be placed on sand bed 530, and another sand bed may be placed on top of the second mesh structure layer. In this way multiple layers may be formed providing better stability to the construction structure.
[0062] Figures 6A illustrates an exemplary measurement 600A of the bearing pressure versus footing settlement response for unreinforced sand bed and reinforcements 600A for a first mesh structure in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The X-axis indicates bearing pressure in Kilo Pascals and the Y axis indicates normalized footing settlement (S/B), which is computed by dividing the footing settlement (S) with the width of the footing (B) and expressed as a percentage. In the exemplary case, unreinforced sand bed exhibited general shear failure with a value of S/B percentage increasing with applied pressure until a peak pressure is reached at an S/B value of 9% and the thereafter, the settlement continued without any increase in the applied pressure.
[0063] Figures 6B illustrates another exemplary measurement 600B of the bearing pressure versus footing settlement response for unreinforced sand bed and sand bed reinforced with a square grid mesh structure in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. Again as illustrated in the Figure 6B, line 610 (diamonds) indicated a measure of the bearing pressure against the normalized footing settlement percentage for the square grid mesh structure with the no pattern. Line 620 (triangles) indicates a measure of the bearing pressure against the normalized footing settlement percentage for the square grid mesh structure with the pattern on the top, pointing in a vertically upward direction. Line 630 (open circles) indicates a measure of the bearing pressure against the normalized footing settlement percentage for the square grid mesh structure with the pattern on the bottom, pointing in a vertically downward direction. The maximum bearing pressure observed was higher for Line 620 and Line 630 compared to Line 610, indicating that mesh structures with patterns could sustain more pressure at a given settlement percentage compared to the mesh structure without a pattern. The mesh structure with the pattern on the top, pointing in a vertically upward direction represented by Line 620 is advantageous compared to the mesh structure with the pattern on the bottom, pointing in a vertically downward direction represented by Line 630.
[0064] Figures 6C illustrates another exemplary measurement 600B of the bearing pressure versus footing settlement response for unreinforced sand bed and reinforcements for a triangular grid mesh structure in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. Again as illustrated in the Figure 6C, Line 615 (diamonds) indicated a measure of the bearing pressure against the normalized footing settlement percentage for the triangular grid mesh structure with no pattern. Line 625 (triangles) indicates a measure of the bearing pressure against the normalized footing settlement percentage for the triangular grid mesh structure with the pattern on the top, pointing in a vertically upward direction. Line 635 (open circles) indicates a measure of the bearing pressure against the normalized footing settlement percentage for the triangular grid mesh structure with the pattern on the bottom, pointing in a vertically downward direction. The maximum bearing pressure observed was higher for Line 625 and Line 635 compared to Line 615, indicating that mesh structures with patterns could sustain more pressure at a given settlement percentage compared to the mesh structure without a pattern. The mesh structure with the pattern on the top, pointing in a vertically upward direction represented by Line 625 is advantageous compared to the mesh structure with the pattern on the bottom, pointing in a vertically downward direction represented by Line 635.
[0065] Figures 6D illustrates another exemplary measurement 600D of the bearing pressure versus footing settlement response for unreinforced sand bed and reinforcements for a hexagonal grid mesh structure in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. Again, as illustrated in the Figure 6D, Line 617 (solid circle) indicated a measure of the bearing pressure against the normalized footing settlement percentage for the hexagonal grid mesh structure with the no pattern. Line 627 (triangles) indicates a measure of the bearing pressure against the normalized footing settlement percentage for the hexagonal grid mesh structure with the pattern on the top, pointing in a vertically upward direction. Line 637 (open circles) indicates a measure of the bearing pressure against the normalized footing settlement percentage for the hexagonal grid mesh structure with the pattern on the bottom, pointing in a vertically downward direction. The maximum bearing pressure observed was higher for Line 627 and Line 637 compared to Line 617, indicating that mesh structures with patterns could sustain more pressure at a given settlement percentage compared to the mesh structure without a pattern. The mesh structure with the pattern on the top, pointing in a vertically upward direction represented by Line 627 is advantageous compared to the mesh structure with the pattern on the bottom, pointing in a vertically downward direction represented by Line 637.
[0066] In the exemplary case illustrated above in Figure 6B – Figure 6D, patterned mesh structures of different apertures were placed at a depth of 0.25B below the footing, where B is the width of the footing. The sand beds reinforced with patterned mesh structures showed distinct improvement in bearing capacity as compared to the sand beds reinforced with mesh structures without any pattern, regardless of the aperture shape of the mesh structure. In an exemplary case, the additive manufactured (3D printed) mesh structures may have surface pattern only on one side, as the other side is in contact with the flat touch bed of the printer. In an exemplary case, tests were carried out with mesh structures placed in two different orientations, with the pattern pointing in a vertically upward direction and with the pattern pointing in a vertically downward direction. In an exemplary embodiment, superior performance was observed where the mesh structures with the patterns appointing in a vertically upward direction compared to the mesh structures with the patterns pointed in a vertically downward direction. In an exemplary embodiment, this highlights that the benefit of surface pattern is more significant when the pattern is present on the upper surface of the mesh structure and pointing in a vertically upward direction. In an exemplary embodiment, provisions of surface texture on the upper surface provides more passive resistance against the lateral movement of sand under the loading and results in a higher bearing capacity compared to the resistance offered by the mesh structures with the pattern on its lower surface. In an exemplary embodiment, among the different aperture shapes, a maximum bearing capacity was observed with hexagonal shaped mesh structure followed by triangular shaped mesh structure and the square shaped mesh structure. In an exemplary embodiment, this highlights the efficient interlocking of sand particles within the hexagonal shaped mesh structure than the other mesh shaped structures. In an exemplary embodiment, it may therefore be concluded that the hexagonal shaped mesh structure with pattern on upper surface may be recommended for obtaining maximized benefits for reinforcement and stability.
[0067] Figure 7 illustrates an exemplary measurement for bearing capacity ratio versus footing settlement for different types of unit mesh structures with different pattern structures in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. Line 710 (solid square) represents a measure of the variation of bearing capacity ratio with normalized footing settlement for sand bed with a square shaped mesh structure. Line 720 (solid triangle) represents a measure of the variation of bearing capacity ratio with normalized footing settlement for sand bed with a triangular shaped mesh structure. Line 730 (solid circle) represents a measure of the variation of bearing capacity ratio with normalized footing settlement for sand bed with a hexagonal shaped mesh structure. All these mesh structures had patterns on their upper surface, which is pointing vertically upward.
[0068] In an exemplary embodiment, the parameter bearing capacity ratio (BCR) was calculated to quantify the increase in bearing pressure for different mesh grid structures with patterned upper surface. In an exemplary embodiment, BCR is a non-dimensional parameter, which is obtained by dividing the bearing pressure of the reinforced bed at a specific settlement with the bearing pressure of the unreinforced bed at the same settlement. As illustrated in the exemplary study, among the different patterned mesh structures (textured geogrids), hexagonal shaped mesh structures exhibited the maximum BCR value.
[0069] Although the present disclosure has been described with reference to several preferred embodiments, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the preferred embodiments disclosed here. Embodiments of the present disclosure are intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Although the foregoing disclosure has been described in some detail for purposes of clarity of understanding, it will be apparent that certain changes and modifications may be practised within the scope of the appended claims. Examples of the present disclosure have been described in language specific to structural features and/or methods. It should be noted that there are many alternative ways of implementing both the process and structure of the present invention. Accordingly, embodiments of the present disclosure are to be considered illustrative and not restrictive, and the invention is not to be limited to the details given herein but may be modified within the scope and equivalents of the appended claims. It should be understood that the appended claims are not necessarily limited to the specific features or methods described. Rather, the specific features and methods are disclosed and explained as examples of the present disclosure. , Claims:We Claim:

1. A structure 100D, the structure 100D comprising a plurality of units 100A, 100B, wherein each of the plurality of units 100A, 100B comprises:
a base structure 101 wherein the base structure 101 has a predefined length 107, a predefined height 108 and a predefined width 109;
the base structure 101 provided with a plurality of predefined pattern structures 114 along the length 107 on a first surface 115 and/or a second surface 117, wherein the plurality of predefined pattern structure 114 extend across the width 109 of the base structure 101.

2. The structure 100D as claimed in claim 1, wherein the predefined pattern structure 114 being provided with a predefined height 111 above the base structure 101.

3. The structure 100D as claimed in claim 1, wherein the predefined pattern structure being provided on a third surface 111 and/or on a fourth surface 114.

4. The structure 100D as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of units 100A, 100B are affixed and/or manufactured in a predetermined design or predefined design.

5. The structure 100D as claimed in claim 2, wherein the predefined pattern structure 114 is formed above the base 101, the predefined pattern structure having a height 111 above the base 101.

6. The structure 100D as claimed in claim 5, wherein the height 111 of the predefined pattern structure 114 is shorter than the height 108 of the base 101.

7. The structure 100 D as claimed in claim 2, wherein the predefined pattern structure 114 is at an angle inclined, wherein the angle of inclination may be on either side of a vertical, the vertical formed when the base 101 is in the horizontal position.

8. The structure 100D as claimed in claim 8, wherein the predefined pattern structure 114 is inclined at an angle ranging between 30 degrees to 70 degrees or between 120 degrees to 160 degrees from the horizontal base 101.

9. The structure 100D as claimed in claim 1, wherein a first end 103A of a first unit 101A is affixed to a first end 105A of a second unit 101B forming a common joint 113.

10. The structure 100D as claimed in claim 9, wherein the common joint 113 is provided with a supporting structure 116.

11. The structure 100D as claimed in claim 10, wherein the supporting structure 116 comprises:
an extended base 132 formed on the base 101, the extended base 132 being at least equal in height to the height 108 of the base 101, and a tapering structure 133 formed from the base 132 in an upward direction forming a tip 137.

12. The structure 100D as claimed in claim 11, wherein a total height 137 of the supporting structure 116 includes the height 108 of the base and the height 134 of the tapering structure 133.

13. The structure 100D as claimed in claim 12, wherein the height 134 of the tapering structure 133 of the supporting structure 116 is greater than or equal to the height 111 of the predefined patterned structure 114.

14. The structure 100D as claimed in claim 2, wherein the predefined pattern structure 114 is inclined strokes and/or cross lines and/or diamond shaped patterns and/or polygonal shaped patterns, wherein the predefined patten structure 114 stretches along the length 107 of the unit 101A, 100B and extends between the width 109 of the unit 101A, 101B.

15. The structure 100D as claimed in claim 10, wherein the supporting structure is provided on the first surface 115 and/or the second surface 117.

16. The structure 100D as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of units 100A, 100AA and the predefined pattern structure 114, 124 is produced by a mould and/or through additive manufacturing.

17. A unit grid structure 160, 170, 180 formed by the combining a plurality of units 100A, 100B in a predetermined manner as claimed in claims 1 to 16.

18. A unit mesh structure 200B, 300B, 400B formed by combining a plurality of unit grid structure 160, 170, 180 as claimed in claim 17.

19. A bed structure 500 formed by a plurality of mesh structures 520 as claimed in claim 18, wherein the plurality of mesh structures 520 is sandwiched between a first sand bed 510 and a second sand bed 530.

Dated this 09th day of November 2023
Indian Institute of Science
By their Agent & Attorney

Dr. Eric W B Dias
Reg No IN/PA- 1058
of Khaitan & Co