Interlocked gridwork for retaining walls, and the like

Abstract

A gridwork or crib structure is formed from reinforced, injection molded plastic or injection molded structural foam plastic crossbeams, stringers and fascia members by interlocking the members and pinning the stringers together to form a structure which can function as a gravity retaining wall to retain earth, as a structural wall, or as a water wall. The individual crossbeams are laid end-to-end on conventional base footings and define elongated slots and holes into which are connected the stringers, which are then locked and pinned together, thereby forming an initial crib or grid layer at ground level. This crib or grid layer can be built up in height and depth to provide an open structure defining securement channels into which earth is filled. Use of slot and hole connections produce an adjustable interfitted grid which can assume a convex or concave curvature, or the usual linear form, or the grid can form a square corner. Consequently, it is relatively easy to build the crib or grid layers to follow uneven perimeters such as property lines, roads, hill sides, etc. Since the plastic crossbeams and stringers are quite light, it is very easy to erect the crib or grid, compared to working with metal, timber or concrete reinforcement beams. This enables its installation in inaccessible locations, since it does not require heavy equipment for its construction. Also, the opening in fascia elements of the crib or grid enables planting of vegetation into the earth fill for soil retention or decoration.