SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR EXCAVATING AN AGGREGATE THROUGH AN ACCESS HOLE

FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to a system and method for excavating an aggregate from below or beside a foundation through an access hole. In particular, the present disclosure relates to a system and method for removing an aggregate from under or beside a concrete slab through a radon mitigation and/or chemical vapor extraction access hole.

BACKGROUND

Radon mitigation and/or chemical vapor extraction systems are often employed in residential and commercial buildings for reducing occupant exposure to the dangerous gases or vapors. Of the forementioned, radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas, which exists in trace amounts in the atmosphere and in the soil, and which can increase the chances of lung cancer to those over exposed. Most radon exposure occurs inside homes, schools, or and/or workplaces because the gas enters the buildings through cracks and holes in the foundation and becomes trapped. Chemical vapors underneath a foundation may be present due to a leak, spill, or a natural cause that may require mitigation due to local, state, or federal guidelines/requirements. These vapors may be toxic to occupants or wildlife and must be controlled. Some vapors may also be inert in nature, but may react with other substances, leading to a potential hazard.

Many buildings include underground radon mitigation systems and/or chemical vapor extraction systems that extend through the building and into the ground (e.g., through the foundation and into the soil). The radon mitigation systems and/or chemical vapor extraction systems include a fan that continuously pulls radon or vapors from the soil and exhausts it out of the building to prevent accumulation. The underground radon mitigation systems and/or chemical vapor extraction systems are often installed after the building has been built, and in some instances, access to below the buildings foundation can be limited (e.g., when the crawl space is small or the building is built directly on a concrete slab). As such, installing the underground radon mitigation systems and/or chemical vapor extraction systems can be cumbersome.

For example, in a typical installation, an access hole approximately 2 to 8 inches in diameter may be drilled in the foundation of the building to provide access to the soil below. Subsequently, approximately 5 to 50 gallons of soil must be removed and/or excavated to create sufficient space for the radon sump. The removal/excavation of the soil is traditionally difficult due to the small size of the hole through which to operate, creating a hazard by reaching through the access hole (personal entrapment) and risk of damaging utilities/systems that may exist beneath the surface (plumbing, electrical, HVAC, etc.) from mechanical damage by augers, picks, digging tools, etc.

As such, an improved system and method for the removal/excavation of soil through an access hole is desired in the art.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Aspects and advantages of the systems and methods in accordance with the present disclosure will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be obvious from the description, or may be learned through practice of the technology.

In accordance with one embodiment, a system for excavating an aggregate from below a foundation through an access hole is provided. The system includes an air compressor and an air line fluidly coupled to the air compressor. The system further includes a valve disposed in fluid communication on the air line, and an end effector in fluid communication with the air compressor. The end effector extends between a first end coupled to one of the air line or the valve and a second end. The end effector is sized to fit through the access hole. The system further includes a nozzle coupled to the second end of the end effector.

In accordance with another embodiment, a method of excavating an aggregate from below or beside a foundation through an access hole is provided. The method includes inserting an end effector through the access hole towards the aggregate. The method further includes supplying a flow of compressed air from the air compressor to the end effector at least partially with an air line fluidly coupled to the air compressor. The method further includes actuating a valve from a closed position to an open position to provide the flow of compressed air to the end effector. The valve disposed in fluid communication on the air line. The method further includes expelling the flow of compressed air from a nozzle coupled to the end effector to loosen the aggregate.

These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present systems and methods will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the technology and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the technology.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A full and enabling disclosure of the present systems and methods, including the best mode of making and using the present systems and methods, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forth in the specification, which makes reference to the appended figures, in which:

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a system for excavating an aggregate from below a foundation through an access hole in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of an end effector in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of a sealing plate in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 illustrates a side view of a nozzle in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5 illustrates a side view of a nozzle in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 illustrates a side view of a nozzle in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the nozzle shown in FIG. 6 from along the line 7-7 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 illustrates a side view of a nozzle in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 9 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the nozzle shown in FIG. 8 from along the line 9-9 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 10 illustrates a side view of a nozzle in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 11 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the nozzle shown in FIG. 10 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 12 illustrates a flow chart of a method for excavating an aggregate from below a foundation through an access hole in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the present systems and methods, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation, rather than limitation of, the technology. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications and variations can be made in the present technology without departing from the scope or spirit of the claimed technology. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present disclosure covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

The detailed description uses numerical and letter designations to refer to features in the drawings. Like or similar designations in the drawings and description have been used to refer to like or similar parts of the invention. As used herein, the terms “first”, “second”, and “third” may be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not intended to signify location or importance of the individual components.

The term “fluid” may be a gas or a liquid. The term “fluid communication” means that a fluid is capable of making the connection between the areas specified.

As used herein, the terms “upstream” (or “forward”) and “downstream” (or “aft”) refer to the relative direction with respect to fluid flow in a fluid pathway. For example, “upstream” refers to the direction from which the fluid flows, and “downstream” refers to the direction to which the fluid flows. However, the terms “upstream” and “downstream” as used herein may also refer to a flow of electricity. The term “radially” refers to the relative direction that is substantially perpendicular to an axial centerline of a particular component, the term “axially” refers to the relative direction that is substantially parallel and/or coaxially aligned to an axial centerline of a particular component and the term “circumferentially” refers to the relative direction that extends around the axial centerline of a particular component.

Terms of approximation, such as “about,” “approximately,” “generally,” and “substantially,” are not to be limited to the precise value specified. In at least some instances, the approximating language may correspond to the precision of an instrument for measuring the value, or the precision of the methods or machines for constructing or manufacturing the components and/or systems. In at least some instances, the approximating language may correspond to the precision of an instrument for measuring the value, or the precision of the methods or machines for constructing or manufacturing the components and/or systems. For example, the approximating language may refer to being within a 1, 2, 4, 5, 10, 15, or 20 percent margin in either individual values, range(s) of values and/or endpoints defining range(s) of values. When used in the context of an angle or direction, such terms include within ten degrees greater or less than the stated angle or direction. For example, “generally vertical” includes directions within ten degrees of vertical in any direction, e.g., clockwise or counter-clockwise.

Here and throughout the specification and claims, range limitations are combined and interchanged, such ranges are identified and include all the sub-ranges contained therein unless context or language indicates otherwise. For example, all ranges disclosed herein are inclusive of the endpoints, and the endpoints are independently combinable with each other.

Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a system 100 for excavating an aggregate 112 from below a foundation 116 through an access hole 114. For example, in exemplary implementations, the system 100 may be used for removing soil or other compacted aggregate 112 from beneath or beside the foundation 116 of a building (e.g., commercial or residential) through an access hole 114. As used herein, the term “foundation” may include but is not limited to a slab (e.g., concrete) upon which a building rests (which may or may not include one or more footers underneath the slab), asphalt driveways or parking lots, wooden floors, or any other solid material resting on the aggregate/ground. However, vapor extraction systems may not always be near or beneath a building. For example, a vapor extraction system may be installed in an asphalt parking lot or in a grass/turf field where a chemical was spilled. As such, the system 100 may be used for excavating an aggregate in a variety of scenarios. Additionally, as used herein, the term “access hole” may include but is not limited to an opening defined through the foundation (such as a round, square, slot, narrow cut, or any other shaped opening). Particularly, the system 100 may be used for clearing a cavity 150 in the ground beneath or beside a buildings foundation 116 when the only means of accessing the ground is through the access hole 114 (e.g., the building rests on a concrete slab in contact with the ground or the crawlspace under or beside the foundation 116 is too small to access otherwise). With reference to vapor extraction in an open field, a 1 to 3 foot hole may be drilled through the dirt/turf before excavating a cavity therebelow.

Use of the system 100 described herein advantageously reduces hazards of reaching through the access hole 114 (personal entrapment) and risk of damaging utilities/systems that may exist beneath the surface (plumbing, electrical, HVAC, etc.) from mechanical damage by augers, picks, digging tools, etc.

As used herein, the term “aggregate” may include any compacted mass of fragments or particles, such as but not limited to soil, sand, clay, rock fragments, or other suitable ground material. Particularly, the term “aggregate” may refer to the soil found beneath or beside the concrete slab or foundation 116 of a building (such as a residential or commercial building).

As shown in FIG. 1, the system 100 may include an air compressor 102. For example, in various embodiments, the air compressor 102 may be any suitable air compressor capable of pressurizing (or compressing) and storing air to be used with one or more components of the system 100. In particular embodiments, the air compressor 102 may include a compressor 104 for pressurizing air from the atmosphere (such as a rotary screw compressor, a single stage piston compressor, a dual stage piston compressor, or other suitable compressor). The compressor 104 may be fluidly coupled to a storage tank 106, such that compressed air exiting the compressor 104 may be stored or housed within the storage tank 106 for use in the system 100. In exemplary embodiments, the air compressor 102 may be a portable compressor, such that it is sized and configured to be moved by a single user (e.g., lighter than about 100 lbs.). In such embodiments, the air compressor 102 may include one or more wheels 108 in order to easily transport the air compressor 102. In many buildings, the radon mitigation access hole 114 is often placed in a corner or otherwise hard to reach area, and therefore the portable compressor 102 may be advantageous due to its compact size.

In many embodiments, an air line 110 may be fluidly coupled to the air compressor 102. The air line 110 may be a flexible hose or tube that transports compressed air from the air compressor 102 to the end effector 124 without dropping the pressure of the air. For example, the air line 110 may fluidly couple the air compressor 102 to the end effector 124. In some embodiments, the air line 110 may extend from the air compressor 102 to the end effector 124, and a valve 118 may be disposed in fluid communication on the air line 110 between the air compressor 102 and the end effector 124. In particular embodiments, the air line 110 may extend directly from the air compressor 102 to the valve 118, and the valve 118 may couple directly fluidly couple to the end effector 124. As used herein, the term “line” may refer to a hose, piping, or tube that is used for carrying fluid(s).

In exemplary embodiments, the valve 118 may be disposed in fluid communication on the air line 110. The valve 118 may be selectively actuated (e.g., mechanically via a lever 122 and/or remotely via a controller) between an open position and a closed position. For example, the valve 118 may be selectively opened to allow for a flow of compressed air from the air compressor 102 to the end effector 124. By contrast, when the valve 118 is in a closed position, the flow of compressed air from the air compressor 102 is restricted or otherwise prevented. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 1, the valve 118 may include a handle 120 and a lever 122. In such embodiments, an operator or user may control the direction and orientation of the end effector 124 and nozzle 130 by gripping the handle 120, and the lever 122 may be selectively actuated to switch the valve 118 between the closed position and the open position. In many embodiments, the end effector 124 may rotate independently relative to the handle 120. For example, a rotation device (e.g., a rotating coupling, two way nozzle, etc.) may be installed between the handle 120 and the end effector 124, thereby allowing the end effector 124 to rotate 360° relative to the handle 120.

In exemplary embodiments, the system 100 may further include an end effector 124 in fluid communication with the air compressor 102. The end effector 124 may be a hook shaped or partially curved pipe that provides a flow of compressed air from the air line 110 to the nozzle 130. In some embodiments, the end effector 124 may be a rigid pipe (e.g., formed of metal or plastic material), such that it does not generally bend or flex when under pressure or applied force (e.g., less than 50 lbf). Alternatively, in other embodiments, the end effector 124 may be partially compliant, such that it maintains its shape when not exposed to any applied forces but may partially bend or flex (e.g., elastically deform) when exposed to an external force (e.g., an applied force less than 50 lbf). In yet still further embodiments, the end effector 124 may be non-rigid, such as a rubber hose or tube that freely bends or flexes when exposed to an ambient environment or the force of gravity alone.

In many embodiments, such as shown in FIG. 1, the end effector 124 may extend between a first end 126 coupled to one of the air line 110 or the valve 118 and a second end 128. In particular embodiments, the first end 126 of the end effector 124 is directly fluidly couple to the valve 118. In other embodiments (not shown), the end effector 124 may couple to a terminal end of the air line 110, and the valve 118 may be positioned in fluid communication on the air line 110 between the air compressor 102 and the end effector 124. In some embodiments, the first end 126 of the end effector 124 may be fixedly coupled to the valve 118 (e.g., via a weld joint or a braze joint). In other embodiments, the first end 126 of the end effector 124 may be removably coupled to the valve 118 via a threaded connection.

In exemplary embodiments, a nozzle 130 may be coupled to the second end 128 of the end effector 124. For example, in some embodiments, nozzle 130 may be fixedly coupled to the second end 128 of the end effector 124 (e.g., via a weld joint or a braze joint). In other embodiments, the nozzle 130 may be removably coupled to the second end 128 of the end effector 124 (e.g., via a threaded connection). The nozzle 130 may be configured to expel the flow of compressed air from the air compressor 102 to loosen the aggregate 112. For example, the nozzle 130 may expel the compressed air with sufficient velocity and pressure to break up or loosen the compacted aggregate 112. As should be appreciated, the aggregate 112 (or soil) beneath the foundation 116 of a building is compacted for strength (e.g., the soil particles are pressed together such that there is little to no gaps therebetween). As such, the nozzle 130 shown and described herein advantageously expels and directs compressed air with sufficient velocity and pressure to loosen the aggregate 112 so it can be easily removed (e.g., via a vacuum 152 or other means).

In exemplary embodiments, the system 100 may further include a vacuum 152 for removing or collecting loosened aggregate 112 from the cavity 150. In various embodiments, the vacuum 152 may be any suitable vacuum-generating device capable of collecting soil or other ground-based compounds from the cavity 150. In particular embodiments, the vacuum 152 may include a collection tank 154 and a hose 156. The hose 156 may be in communication with the collection tank 154. In exemplary implementations, the collection tank 154 may be disposed above the foundation 116, and the hose 156 may be inserted into the cavity 150 through the access hole 114 in order to suction, collect, or otherwise remove loosened aggregate 112 (e.g., soil) contained therein.

In many embodiments, the system 100 may further include a sealing plate 300. The sealing plate 300 may be sized and shaped to extend across and cover the access hole 114 to prevent (or block) aggregate 112 from flying out of the access hole 114 (e.g., towards the operator of the end effector 124). Additionally, the sealing plate 300 may be sized and shaped to correspond with the size and shape of the access hole 114. For example, the sealing plate 300 may be rectangular, square, circular, or any other suitable shape. In exemplary embodiments, as shown in FIG. 1, the sealing plate 300 may be in sealing contact with the foundation 116 (or other surface on which it is being utilized), in order to prevent aggregate 112 from exiting the access hole 114.

FIG. 2 illustrates an enlarged side view of the end effector 124 coupled to the nozzle 130, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, the end effector 124 may include a straight portion 158, with or without a curved portion 160. For example, in some embodiments, the end effector 124 may be entirely straight. In other embodiments, as shown in FIG. 2, the end effector may include a curved portion 160. Particularly, the straight portion 158 may extend from the first end 126 to the curved portion 160, and the curved portion 160 may extend from the straight portion 158 to the second end 128. Particularly, the straight portion 158 may extend generally linearly from the first end 126 coupled to the air line 110 to the curved portion 160 of the end effector 124. The straight portion 158 may define a length 162 of between about 8 inches and about 48 inches, or such as between about 10 inches and about 40 inches, or such as between about 15 inches and about 35 inches. The length 162 of the straight portion 158 may advantageously provide additional leverage (e.g., for the operator/user) to allow the end effector 124 to variably extend through the access hole 114 and into the cavity 150. In some embodiments, the end effector 124 may be length adjustable. For example, the straight portion 158 may include one or more telescoping tubes or pipes that can extend to adjust the length 162 of the end effector 124.

In many embodiments, the curved portion 160 of the end effector 124 may extend along an arc, circular, or otherwise curvilinear path. For example, in many embodiments, the curved portion 160 may extend up to about 180° along a circular or curved path 165, such that the end effector 124 may expel compressed air in a direction parallel to the straight portion 158 of the end effector 124. The curved portion 160 of the end effector 124 may terminate at the second end 128, and the nozzle 130 may extend therefrom. In this way, the nozzle 130 may extend from the second end 128 of the end effector 124 generally parallel to the straight portion 158 of the end effector 124. Although the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate the curved portion 160 of the end effector 124 extending 180° along a circular (or curved) path 165, the curved portion 160 of the end effector 124 may extend about 30°, 60°, 90°, 120°, 150°, or over 180° (e.g., relative to the straight portion 158) along the circular (or curved) path 165 in other embodiments.

In exemplary implementations, the curved portion 160 of the end effector 124 may allow the end effector 124 to reach and direct compressed air towards otherwise hard to reach locations within the cavity 150 through the access hole 114. For example, the curved portion 160 allows the end effector 124 to direct a flow of compressed air towards the interior surface of the foundation 116. In exemplary embodiments, the curved portion 160 extends at least partially along (or entirely along in some embodiments) a circular path 165 having a radius of between about 1 inch and about 8 inches, or such as between about 2 inches and about 7 inches, or such as between about 3 inches and about 6 inches. Additionally, both the curved portion 160 and the nozzle 130 may include a length adjusting means, such as a telescoping tube or pipe assembly that can extend to adjust length.

In exemplary embodiments, the end effector 124 may be sized to fit through the access hole 114. For example, in varying embodiments, the end effector 124 may define a width 163 between the second end 128 and the straight portion 158. The width 163 may be smaller than the diameter of the access hole 114 in order to be inserted therethrough during operation. For example, in various implementations, the width 163 of the end effector 124 may be between about 2 inches and about 16 inches, or such as between about 4 inches and about 14 inches, or such as between about 6 inches and about 12 inches. As discussed above, in exemplary implementations of the present system 100, the access hole 114 may be a radon mitigation and/or chemical vapor extraction access hole 114 defined through the foundation 116 of a building. In such implementations, the access hole 114 may be between about 1 inch and about 20 inches, or such as between about 1 inch and about 10 inches, or such as between about 3 inches and about 8 inches, or such as between about 4 inches and about 7 inches.

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the sealing plate 300, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, the sealing plate 300 may include a frame 302 and a plate 304 extending across the frame 302. The sealing plate 300 may be rigid, and may be composed of a variety of materials, such as but not limited to plastic, metal, wood, or other suitable rigid materials. The plate 304 of the sealing plate may define an effector hole 306, through which the end effector 124 may extend during operation of the system 100. Additionally, the plate 304 may further define a vacuum hole 308 having a hose connection cylinder 310 positioned thereabout. In many implementations, the hose 156 of the vacuum 152 may extend through the vacuum hole 308 to collect loosened aggregate 112. However, in exemplary implementations, the hose connection cylinder 310 may be inserted into the hose 156.

FIGS. 4 through 6, 8, and 10 each illustrates a side view of a different embodiment of a nozzle 130, each in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. As should be appreciated, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment of the nozzle 130 can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present disclosure covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. As shown in FIGS. 4-6, 8, and 10, the nozzle 130 may have a variety of external shapes, which may make the nozzle 130 advantageous in certain operational scenarios.

Referring now specifically to FIG. 4, the nozzle 130 may extend generally axially from a first end 436 to a second end 434. The nozzle 130 may define an internal passage that extends from an inlet 440 defined at the first end 436 to an outlet 438 defined at the second end 434. As shown in FIG. 4, the nozzle 130 may include main body portion 442, a tapered portion 444, and a winged end portion 446. The main body portion 442 may have a generally round or polygonal cross-sectional shape and may extend from the first end 436 to the tapered portion 444. The tapered portion 444 may gradually reduce in thickness as the tapered portion 444 extends from the main body portion 442 to the winged end portion 446. The winged end portion 446 may extend from the tapered portion 442 to the second end 434. For example, the winged end portion 446 may partially define a recess 448, and the outlet 438 may be defined in the recess 448.

FIG. 5 illustrates a side view of another embodiment of the nozzle 130. As shown, the nozzle 130 may extend generally axially from a first end 536 to a second end 534. The nozzle 130 may define an internal passage that extends from an inlet 540 defined at the first end 536 to an outlet 538 defined at the second end 534. As shown in FIG. 5, the nozzle 130 may include a main body portion 542 and a conical (or frustoconical) portion 544. The main body portion 542 may have a generally round or polygonal cross-sectional shape and may extend from the first end 536 to the conical portion 544. The conical portion 544 may gradually reduce in diameter as it extends from the main body portion 542 to the second end 534.

FIG. 6 illustrates another embodiment of the nozzle 130. As shown, the nozzle 130 may have a generally cylindrical exterior shape. In such embodiments, the first end 134 (e.g., the outlet end of the nozzle 130) may be a flat or planar end 164. FIG. 7 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the nozzle 130 shown in FIG. 6 from along the line 4-4, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The nozzle 130 may define a cylindrical coordinate system having an axial direction A extending along the axial centerline 132, a radial direction R perpendicular to the axial centerline 132, and a circumferential direction C extending around the axial centerline 132.

As shown in FIG. 7 the nozzle 130 may define in internal passage 135 in fluid communication with the end effector 124. For example, the internal passage 135 may extend along the axial centerline 132 from an outlet 138 defined at the first end 134 of the nozzle 130 to an inlet 140 defined at the second end 136 of the nozzle 130. The inlet 140 may receive compressed air from the end effector 124 and the outlet 138 may expel the air to the environment (e.g., towards a compacted soil or aggregate 112).

The nozzle 130 described herein advantageously expels compressed air with an adequate differential pressure to produce a fluid stream of adequate velocity to loosen or breakup compacted soil below the foundation 116 of a building. For example, in many embodiments, the nozzle 130 may expel a flow of compressed air at a dynamic pressure of between about 80 psia and about 180 psi. In some embodiments, the nozzle 130 may expel the flow of compressed air at a dynamic pressure of between about 100 psia and about 140 psia. in particular embodiments, the nozzle 130 may expel the flow of compressed air at a dynamic pressure of between about 110 psia and about 130 psia.

In exemplary embodiments, the internal passage 135 of the nozzle 130 may include an outlet portion 142 and an inlet portion 144. For example, the outlet portion 142 may extend (e.g., axially extend) from the outlet 138 to the inlet portion 144, and the inlet portion 144 may extend (e.g., axially extend) from the outlet portion 142 to the inlet 140. As shown in FIG. 4, the axial length of the outlet portion 142 of the internal passage 135 may be longer than the axial length of the inlet portion 144, which may advantageously allow the velocity profile of compressed air to fully develop before being expelled from the outlet 138. In many embodiments, the outlet portion 142 may have a uniform diameter 143 along its length sized to fully develop the velocity profile of the compressed air prior to expelling the compressed air from the outlet 138. For example, in some embodiments, the outlet portion 142 may define a ratio of length (e.g., axial length) to diameter 143 of between about 2:1 and about 5:1. In other embodiments, the outlet portion 142 may define a ratio of length (e.g., axial length) to diameter 143 of between about 3:1 and about 4:1.

As shown in FIG. 4, the inlet portion 144 may extend from the inlet 140 and converge radially inwardly in a downstream direction. For example, the inlet portion 144 may radially converge (e.g., towards the axial centerline 132) as it extends from the inlet 140 to the outlet portion 142. The inlet portion 144 advantageously increases velocity and pressure of the compressed air prior to entrance into the outlet portion 142. In exemplary embodiments, the inlet portion 144 may include a threaded segment 146 and a tapered segment 148. In many embodiments, the nozzle 130 may threadably couple to the end effector 124 via the threaded segment 146 of the inlet portion 144 (e.g., via corresponding threads on the exterior of the end effector 124). Alternatively, the nozzle 130 may be coupled to the end effector 124 via other means, such as welding or brazing. In many embodiments, the threaded segment 146 may extend from the inlet 140 to the tapered segment 148, and the tapered segment 148 may extend from the threaded segment 146 to the outlet portion 142. Both the threaded segment 146 and the tapered segment 148 may extend axially and radially with respect to the axial centerline 132 of the nozzle 130. Particularly, the threaded segment 146 and the tapered segment 148 define different slopes. For example, the threaded segment 146 may extend a shorter radial distance, and a greater axial distance, than the tapered segment 148. Likewise, the tapered segment 148 may extend a longer radial distance, and a shorter axial distance, than the threaded segment 146. In this way, the threaded segment 146 may define a first slope (e.g., radial distance over axial distance), and the tapered segment 148 may define a second slope (e.g., radial distance over axial distance). The first slope may be smaller than the second slope. In exemplary embodiments, the tapered segment 148 may define an angle between the axial centerline of between about 50° and about 130°. In this way, the tapered segment 148 may advantageously increase the velocity of the compressed air prior to entrance into the outlet portion 142 without causing a significant increase in component stress experienced by the nozzle 130.

FIG. 8 illustrates another embodiment of the nozzle 130, and FIG. 9 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the nozzle 130 shown in FIG. 8 from along the line 9-9, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, the nozzle 130 may include a main body 802 that extends generally axially from a first end 836 to a second end 834. The nozzle 130 may define an internal passage 835 that extends from an inlet 840 defined at the first end 836 to one or more outlets 838 defined in the main body 802. As shown, the nozzle 130 may have a generally cylindrical exterior shape. In such embodiments, the first end 134 may be a solid end wall 804, such that no pressurized air may permeate or pass therethrough.

FIG. 10 illustrates yet another embodiment of the nozzle 130, and FIG. 11 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the nozzle 130 shown in FIG. 10 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, the nozzle 130 may extend generally axially from a first end 1036 to a second end 1034. the nozzle 130 may define an internal passage 1035 that extends from an inlet 1040 defined at the first end 1036 to an outlet 1038 defined at the second end 1034. As shown in FIG. 10, the nozzle 130 may include a main body portion 1042 and a conical (or frustoconical) portion 1044. The main body portion 1042 may have a generally round or polygonal cross-sectional shape and may extend from the first end 1036 to the conical portion 1044. The conical portion 1044 may gradually reduce in diameter as it extends from the main body portion 1042 to the second end 1034. As shown in FIG. 11, the internal passage 1035 may include an inlet portion 1002 and an outlet portion 1006. The inlet portion 1002 may extend along an axial centerline 1004 of the nozzle 130 from the inlet 1040 to the outlet portion 1006. The outlet portion 1006 may extend from the inlet portion 1002 at an angle with respect to the axial centerline 1004 to the outlet 1038, such that the outlet portion 1006 is sloped or slanted with respect to the axial centerline 1004. Referring now to FIG. 12, a flow diagram of one embodiment of a method 1200 of excavating an aggregate 112 from below or beside a foundation 116 through an access hole 114 is illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter. In general, the method 1200 will be described herein with reference to the system 100 described above with reference to FIGS. 1 through 4 in the context of creating a cavity 150 below the foundation 116 of a building through a radon mitigation system access hole 114. However, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that the disclosed method 1200 may generally be utilized for clearing, removing, or excavating compacted aggregate 112 (e.g., soil) from behind or beneath a foundation 116 through an access hole 114. In addition, although FIG. 12 depicts steps performed in a particular order for purposes of illustration and discussion, the methods discussed herein are not limited to any particular order or arrangement. One skilled in the art, using the disclosures provided herein, will appreciate that various steps of the methods disclosed herein can be omitted, rearranged, combined, and/or adapted in various ways without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.

In exemplary embodiments, the method 1200 may include a step 1202 of inserting an end effector 124 through the access hole 114 towards the aggregate 112. For example, as described above, the end effector 124 may be sized to fit lengthwise through an access hole 114 (such as a radon mitigation access hole drilled in the foundation 116 of a building). Particularly, the curved portion 160 of the end effector 124 may be inserted into the access hole 114. Depending on the depth of the cavity 150 desired beneath the foundation 116, the straight portion 158 of the end effector 124 may also be inserted through the access hole 114 up to its entire length 162.

In many embodiments, the method may further include a step 1204 of supplying a flow of compressed air from the air compressor 102 to the end effector 124 at least partially with an air line 110 fluidly coupled to the air compressor 102. In particular embodiments, the compressed air may be supplied continuously to the end effector 124 once the valve 118 is set to an open position (e.g., by pushing the lever 122). For example, the compressed air may be supplied to the end effector 124 at a dynamic pressure of between about 80 psia and about 180 psia. In some embodiments, the compressed air may be supplied to the end effector 124 at a dynamic pressure of between about 100 psia and about 140 psia. In particular embodiments, the compressed air may be supplied to the end effector 124 at a dynamic pressure of between about 110 psia and about 130 psia.

The method 1200 may further include a step 1206 of actuating a valve 118 from a closed position to an open position to provide the flow of compressed air to the end effector 124. The valve 118 may be disposed in fluid communication on the air line 110. For example, the valve 118 may be selectively actuated (e.g., mechanically via a lever and/or remotely via a controller) between an open position and a closed position. For example, the valve 118 may be selectively opened to allow for a flow of compressed air from the air compressor 102 to the end effector 124. By contrast, when the valve 118 is in a closed position, the flow of compressed air from the air compressor 102 is restricted or otherwise prevented.

In exemplary embodiments, the method 1200 may further include a step 1208 of expelling the flow of compressed air from a nozzle 130 coupled to the end effector 124 to loosen the aggregate 112. For example, the outlet 138 of the nozzle 130 may be directed at compacted aggregate 112 (such as soil) beneath the foundation 116 (e.g., through the access hole 114), and the compressed air may be subsequently expelled or ejected from the nozzle 130 towards the compacted aggregate 112 to break up or loosen the aggregate 112. As should be appreciated, the aggregate 112 (or soil) beneath the foundation 116 of a building is compacted for strength (e.g., the soil particles are pressed together such that there is little to no gaps therebetween). As such, the nozzle 130 shown and described herein advantageously expels and directs compressed air with sufficient velocity and pressure to loosen the aggregate 112 so it can be easily removed (e.g., via a vacuum 152 or other means). Additionally, the end effector 124 may include a curved portion 160, and the nozzle 130 may be coupled to the terminal end of the curved portion 160. In this way, the nozzle 130 may advantageously be directed at an interior surface of the foundation 116 to loosen aggregate 112 in the proximate area.

In some embodiments, the method 1200 may further include a step of collecting the loosened aggregate 112 with a vacuum 152. For example, the vacuum 152 may include a hose 156 that may be inserted through the access hole 114 in order to remove or collect aggregate 112 that has been loosened by the compressed air exiting the nozzle 130. In exemplary embodiments, the step 1208 of expelling the flow of compressed air from the nozzle 130 to loosen the aggregate 112 and the step of collecting the aggregate 112 with the vacuum 152 may occur simultaneously. In this way, the nozzle 130 and the vacuum 152 may operate simultaneously or independently to clear or increase the size of the cavity 150 as desired.

In many embodiments, the method may further include a step of creating (and/or increasing the size of) a cavity 150 below the foundation 116 by loosening aggregate 112 with the nozzle 130 and collecting the loosened aggregate 112 with the vacuum 152. In some embodiments, the aggregate 112 may be first loosened by the nozzle 130, and the vacuum 152 may subsequently remove the loosened aggregate 112. In other embodiments, the nozzle 130 and the vacuum 152 may operate simultaneously in conjunction with one another. In various embodiments, the creating a cavity 150 step may be performed until the cavity 150 below the foundation 116 is between about 1 cubic foot and about 8 cubic feet, or such as between about 2 cubic feet and about 7 cubic feet, or such as between about 3 cubic feet and about 6 cubic feet.

This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR EXCAVATING AN AGGREGATE THROUGH AN ACCESS HOLE

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