Oklahoma Patent of the Month – October 2022
Roadway signs need a good foundation to withstand the test of time, weather, and use. Depending on the ground, the post might be either directly driven into the ground or it might require some concrete base. Unfortunately, the first option has little support. The second option may crack during heating and cooling cycles. These challenges add up over time, requiring regular maintenance. This is not only time consuming – it can be especially difficult in remote areas. Gregory Enterprises, Inc. has developed an alternative solution.
Pile foundations are often used in full-scale construction. This method creates a deep foundation using a series of columns constructed or inserted into the ground to transmit loads to a lower level of subsoil. Inspired by this known method, Gregory Enterprises has designed a helical pile foundation system. Their patented solution uses a shaft with a helical disk at one end and a post support at the other. The helical disk drives the shaft into the ground. Spinning the post while driving it into the ground creates a screw-like source of stability. A series of fins further stabilize the post against the ground.
This design increases the lateral strength of the sign in most soil types. Better strength means less maintenance, and fewer trips out to fix roadway signs.
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