Reliale Lightweight Easy-Use Multi-Helix Soil Anchors for Deployable Structures and Shelters

A hybrid helical anchor is proposed as the hold-down system for army tents and shelter complexes. The new anchor comprises a steel shaft with tapered helices which are perforated and surface-modified for enhanced drivability. Both manual and power-driveninstallations are possible. The development effort involves an integrated analytical/experimental investigation based on the fundamental principles of soil-anchor interaction. The following objectives will be accomplished in the proposed Phase IIresearch: (1) Optimize the global anchor design with respect to uplift capacity, drivability, durability, weight and production cost; (2) Refine the optimum system design through perforation and modification of helices to enhance drivability whileretaining desirable uplift capacity, durability and economy; (3) Modify contact surfaces of the anchor through application of solid lubricants to enhance drivability through reduced soil/anchor friction, with due consideration given to system durabilityand production cost; (4) Develop manual and power-driven installation systems; (5) Develop chemical stabilizers for application of the anchor in problem soils; (6) Fully develop strategies for transfer of the technology to markets for deployablestructures; and (7) Refine the anchor system for broader geotechnical applications.Helical soil anchors will have the following tangible benefits when compared with current alternatives (wooden stakes and steel pins): (1) more than quadrupled load-carryingcapacity, and substantially enhanced wind and blast resistance; (2) rapid and convenient installation/removal, which can be power-driven; (3) reduced weight and bulk; (4) competitive cost; (5) good long-term durability; and (6) compatibility with existingarmy shelter-to-anchor attachment systems. Among military soft wall shelters that can benefit form this anchor system are the General Purpose line of tents (GP), Modular General Purpose Tent Shelter (MGPTS), Lightweight Extreme Weather Shelters (LEWS),Modular Expandable Shelters (TEMPERS), MCPS, Marine Corps Post, Army Maintenance Shelters, and Chemically and Biologically Protected Shelters (CBPS). In commercial tent markets, the new anchor system would replace wooden stakes and steel pins. Othermarkets for the product include anchorage of small retaining walls, soil slope stabilization, foundation systems for small structures in difficult soils, and anchorage of utility pole guy wires.