University of South Florida

Danny Winters

Austin Gray Mullins

Gray Mullins

Rajan Sen

Christopher L Lewis

Mike Stokes

In one embodiment, a system for applying reinforcement material to an existing structure includes a work rail adapted to be temporarily secured to a bottom surface of the structure, adhesive applying apparatus supported by the work rail, the adhesive applying apparatus being adapted to form an adhesive layer on the bottom surface of the structure adjacent the work rail, and reinforcement material applying apparatus supported by the work rail, the reinforcement material applying apparatus being adapted to apply reinforcement material to the adhesive layer formed on the bottom surface of the structure.

Systems and methods for applying reinforcement material to existing structures

A method for increasing stiffness of bearing strata formed of soil, rock or other geomaterial includes the steps of injecting non-hardening pre-compression fluids, in the form of viscous non-hardening slurries that are pressurized beneath a foundation tip for extended periods of time, into the bearing strata to cause pre-compression of the bearing strata. This enhances end bearing capacity in poorly draining soils by providing more time to squeeze water from voids in the poorly draining soils. The bearing strata may also be mechanically pre-compressed. The non-hardening pre-compression fluids may be exchanged with grout to fill a void formed by cavity expansion and previously occupied by the non-hardening, pre-compression fluid. This grout is cured without external additional pressure. Grout may be used in lieu of non hardening pre-compression fluids to affect end bearing enhancement provided that external additional pressure is not applied to the grout while it cures.

Growing community of inventors

Tampa, FL, United States of America

Danny Winters