Patent · US Active

Method and apparatus for load testing a pile

US8517640B2 · kind B2 · utility

8Cited by
7References
28Claims
0Family size

Assignees

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateFeb 22, 2011
Grant dateAug 27, 2013
Priority date
Expiry dateFeb 22, 2031

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
  • CPC primaryE02D13/06
  • WIPO fieldCivil engineering
  • WIPO sectorOther fields

Abstract

Embodiments pertain to a bi-directional testing method and apparatus for use with a pile. One embodiment utilizes a helical pile central shaft divided into two sections. An expandable bi-directional testing apparatus that includes a sacrificial hydraulic jack, such as, for example, an Osterberg Cell®, that can be installed within the central shaft between the two sections. One or more tell tale rods can be attached to the bi-directional testing apparatus. During testing, expansion of the Osterberg Cell® causes the bi-directional testing apparatus to expand, which can result in movement of the one or more tell tale rods. The movement of the tell tale rods can be correlated to the force exerted by the Osterberg Cell® and provide information regarding the status load bearing capacity of the helical pile.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.