Permeable Paving Material and Method of Installation

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 63/661,747, filed on Jun. 19, 2024; the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

This disclosure is generally directed to pavement structures that are permeable for draining precipitation and other forms of liquid, stormwater management, and environmental sustainability, belonging to a technical field of building materials and sponge cities.

Decorative surfacing and similar pavements of the like have become widely popular and used in various applications, particularly in both residential and commercial spaces. With respect to residential spaces, decorative surfacing and pavements are popular and commonly used for walkways, outdoor patios, sidewalks, and driveways to provide an aesthetically pleasing element to a particular environment. With respect to commercial spaces, decorative surfacing and pavements may also be popular around buildings and commercial areas for providing a similar aesthetically pleasing element to a particular environment.

However, such use of decorative surfacing and similar pavements has various drawbacks and/or detriments in various weather conditions. In one instance, decorative surfacing and similar pavements may have limitations with respect to drainage of precipitation provided in outdoor environments. In this instance, such precipitation that falls onto these types of surfaces and pavements may puddle and remain present on the top surfaces causing issues of traction for people or vehicles traversing over these surface and pavements. In another instance, decorative surfacing and similar pavements may also retain and trap precipitation or liquids (like water) inside of the structure which could result in damage and/or destruction of the structure during freezing and thawing conditions. In another instance, cold climates present significant challenges for pavement performance and longevity, particularly during freeze-thaw cycles. Decorative surfacing and conventional pavements, often composed of cement, asphalt, or their composites, tend to have poor permeability, which not only reduces natural water infiltration but also allows precipitation and liquids to become trapped within the pavement structure. This trapped moisture can freeze and expand, leading to internal stress, cracking, and eventual structural failure. Furthermore, these impermeable surfaces contribute to high surface runoff rates, up to 70-80% of rainfall and snowmelt, placing additional strain on urban drainage systems, reducing road safety, and causing environmental and economic disruptions. In another instance, the use of decorative surfaces and pavements can reduce the natural pervious areas, thereby increasing anthropization impact and elevating the risk of urban flooding and excessive surface runoff. In another instance, constructing and/or installing these types of decorative surfacing requires extensive amounts of time and effort when laying and installing the required structural and drainage components in a given environment. As such, installation of these types of decorative surfacing and/or pavement structures may incur extensive costs and labor in order to have a functional paving structure while simultaneously providing an aesthetically pleasing element.

In one aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide a permeable paving structure. The permeable paving structure includes a stabilizer that is adapted to be engaged with a ground surface in at least two planes. The permeable paving structure also includes a base course layer that operably engages with the stabilizer. The permeable paving structure also includes a wearing course layer that operably engages with the base course layer and with the stabilizer. The stabilizer is configured to stabilize the base course layer and the wearing course layer in the at least two planes.

In another aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide a permeable paving structure. The permeable paving structure includes at least one stabilizer adapted to be engaged with a ground surface in at least two planes. The permeable paving structure also includes a base course layer operably engaged with the stabilizer. The permeable paving structure also includes a wearing course layer operably engaged with the base course layer and with the at least one stabilizer. The at least one stabilizer is configured to stabilize the base course layer and the wearing course layer in the at least two planes.

This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the fluid permeates through each of the at least one stabilizer, the base course layer, and the wearing course layer for complete infiltration of fluid in a subgrade of the ground surface. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include an underdrain system positioned in at least the base course layer and a subgrade of the ground surface; wherein the underdrain system is configured to capture fluid permeating through the base course layer and to direct the fluid away from the permeable paving structure. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the underdrain system comprises: a drainage channel operable with the base course layer and the at least one stabilizer; and a drainage pipe positioned inside of the drainage channel. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the at least one stabilizer is a geomembrane to prevent complete infiltration of the fluid into the subgrade of the ground surface. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the at least one stabilizer further comprises: a first stabilizer adapted to be engaged with a support structure in a first plane of the at least two planes; and a second stabilizer operably engaged with the base course layer and the wearing course layer in a second plane of the at least two planes that is non-parallel to the first plane; wherein the second stabilizer is separate from the first stabilizer. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the wearing course layer comprises: a first aggregate formed of a first material; a second aggregate formed of a second material different from the first material; and a plurality of voids defined between the first and second aggregates. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the first material is stone, and the second material is glass. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the base course layer comprises: a first aggregate section in communication with the wearing course layer and defining a first thickness; and a second aggregate section in communication with the first aggregate section and spaced apart from the wearing course layer and defining a second thickness that is one of equal to or greater than the first thickness. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the wearing course layer further defines a third thickness that is less than the first thickness and the second thickness. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the base course layer further comprises: a first aggregate having a first plurality of stone, wherein each stone of the first plurality of stone defines a first length; and a second aggregate having a second plurality of stone, wherein each stone of the second plurality of stone defines a second length that is less than the first length. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the wearing course layer further comprises: a binder for binding an aggregate of the wearing course layer together to form the wearing course layer as a unitary member. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the underdrain system includes a drainage pipe positioned inside of at least the base course layer.

In another aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide another permeable paving structure. The permeable paving structure includes a first stabilizer adapted to be engaged with a support structure in at least two planes. The permeable paving structure also includes a base course layer that operably engages with the first stabilizer. The permeable paving structure also includes a second stabilizer that operably engages with the base course layer and is separate from the first stabilizer. The permeable paving structure also includes a wearing course layer that is in operative communication with the base course layer and with the second stabilizer. Each of the first stabilizer and the second stabilizer is configured to stabilize the base course layer and the wearing course layer in the at least two planes.

In another aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide a method of installing a permeable paving structure. The method includes steps of: compacting a subgrade of a ground surface; installing a stabilizer with the subgrade; wherein the stabilizer provides structural support in a first plane; installing a base course layer with the stabilizer and the subgrade; expanding the stabilizer subsequent to the base course layer being installed with the stabilizer; wherein the stabilizer provides structural support in a second plane; and installing a wearing course layer with the base course layer and the stabilizer.

In another aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide a method of installing a permeable paving structure. The method includes steps of: compacting a subgrade of a ground surface; installing at least one stabilizer with the subgrade; wherein the at least one stabilizer provides structural support in at least one plane; installing a base course layer with the at least one stabilizer and the subgrade; expanding the at least one stabilizer subsequent to the base course layer being installed with the at least one stabilizer; wherein the at least one stabilizer provides structural support in a second plane; and installing a wearing course layer with the base course layer and the at least one stabilizer.

This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that fluid permeates through each of the at least one stabilizer, the base course layer, and the wearing course layer for complete infiltration of fluid in the subgrade of the ground surface. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include steps of: positioning an underdrain system in at least the base course layer and the subgrade of the ground surface; capturing fluid permeating through the base course layer; and directing said fluid away from the permeable paving structure and the subgrade. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the step of positioning the underdrain system further comprises: defining a drainage channel of the underdrain system in the base course layer and the at least one stabilizer and in the subgrade; and positioning a drainage pipe of the underdrain system inside of the drainage channel. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include a step of: diverting the fluid away from the subgrade of the ground surface by that least one stabilizer; wherein the at least one stabilizer is a geomembrane. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the step of installing at least one stabilizer further comprises: installing a first stabilizer with a support structure in a first plane of the at least one plane; and installing a second stabilizer operably engaged with the base course layer and the wearing course layer in at least another plane that is non-parallel to the at least one plane; wherein the second stabilizer is separate from the first stabilizer. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include a step of: binding an aggregate of the wearing course layer, by a binder, together to form the wearing course layer as a unitary member. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the step of installing the base course layer further comprises: installing a first aggregate section in communication with the wearing course layer and defining a first thickness; and installing a second aggregate section in communication with the first aggregate section and spaced apart from the wearing course layer and defining a second thickness that is one of equal to or greater than the first thickness. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the step of positioning the underdrain system further comprises: positioning a drainage pipe of the underdrain system inside of at least the base course layer.

Similar numbers refer to similar parts throughout the drawings.

illustrates a pavement structure which is generally referred to as. As discussed in greater detail below, the permeable pavement structureis configured to provide water mitigation through said permeable pavement structurefor draining precipitation and stormwater management of various forms. In certain instances, permeable pavement structuremay also provide or include an aesthetically pleasing element (e.g., desired colors, patterns, designs, etc.) to the surrounding environment. In one instance, permeable pavement structuresupports environmental sustainability initiatives and aligns with the principles of sponge city development by enhancing natural water absorption and reducing surface runoff.

In the present disclosure, the permeable pavement structureis installed below a ground surfaceinside of a hole or support structuredefined in the ground surface. As best seen in, the support structureincludes a subgradeand a pair of sidewallsthat extends vertically upward from the subgrade. In one exemplary embodiment, a subgrademay be a compacted surface prior to the permeable pavement structurebeing installed inside of the support structure. As discussed in greater detail below, the permeable pavement structureprovides water mitigation through said permeable pavement structurefrom the ground surfaceto the subgradeand/or to the pair of sidewalls. Such components and features of the permeable pavement structurethat provides such water mitigation are discussed in greater detail below.

Permeable pavement structureincludes a stabilizer, generally referred to as, that operably engages with the subgradeand the pair of sidewallsto provide soil stabilization and/or mechanical soil stabilization. As best seen in, the stabilizerincludes a first endA that operably engages with a first sidewall of the pair of sidewalls, and a second endB that operably engages with a second sidewall of the pair of sidewallsand is opposite to the first endA. The stabilizeralso includes an inner surfaceC that extends between the first endA and the second endB and faces in a first direction inwardly from the subgradeand the pair of sidewalls. With this configuration, the inner surfaceC is spaced apart from the subgradeand pair of sidewallssuch that the inner surfaceC is free from engaging with these subgradeand the pair of sidewalls. The stabilizeralso includes an outer surfaceD that extends between the first endA and the second endB and faces in a second direction outwardly towards the subgradeand the pair of sidewalls; the second direction is opposite to the first direction. With this configuration, the outer surfaceD directly contacts the subgradeand any pair of sidewallssuch that the outer surfaceD operably engages with this subgradeand pair of sidewalls.

Still referring to stabilizer, the stabilizeralso includes a set of first support wallsE and a set of second support wallsF. As best seen in, each wall of the set of first support wallsE extends in a first direction from the first endA to the second endB along a first axis. Still referring to, each wall of the set of second support wallsF extends a second direction along a second axis that is non-parallel or perpendicular to the first axis of each wall of the set of first support wallsE. Still referring to, a set of openingsG is also defined by the set of first support wallsE and the set of second support wallsF. In the present disclosure, each opening of the set of openingsG is defined by a pair of first support walls of the set of first support wallsE and a pair of second support walls of the set of second support wallsF.

In the present disclosure, the set of first support wallsE and the set of second support wallsF define a grid pattern or lattice pattern that extends between the first endA and the second endB. In this configuration, the set of first support wallsE and the set of second support wallsF creates a configuration that provides tensile strength in two axes. As such, each opening of the set of openingG may be defined as a two-dimensional square that is defined by a pair of first support walls of the set of first support wallsE and a pair of second support walls of the set of second support wallsF. In one example, stabilizermentioned herein may be a conventional stiff biaxial geogrid. In other exemplary embodiments, the stabilizermay have any suitable configuration based on the positioning of the set of first support wallsE and the set of second support wallsF.

As mentioned previously, the stabilizerdirectly contacts and engages with the subgradeand the pair of sidewallsto provide soil stabilization and mechanical ground stabilization for course layers of the permeable pavement structure. In other embodiments, the stabilizermay directly contact and engage with one or both of the subgradeand the pair of sidewalls. In one example, the stabilizermay only directly contact and engage with the subgrade. In another example, the stabilizermay only directly contact and engage with one or more sidewalls. As discussed in greater detail below, the stabilizermay also provide mechanical ground stabilization to one or more course layers of the permeable pavement structure.

Permeable pavement structurealso includes a base course layerthat is installed inside of the support structureand operably engages with the stabilizer. As best seen in, the base course layerincludes the top surfaceA that is spaced apart from the subgrade, and a bottom surfaceB that directly contacts the subgradeand a portion of the stabilizerdefined between the first andA and the second endB. The base course layercomprises aggregateC that forms the top surfaceA and the bottom surfaceB. The aggregateC may include various types and/or shapes of material to form the base course layer. The base course layermay also define a plurality of drainage passagewaysD that extends from the top surfaceA to the bottom surfaceB. In the present disclosure, the aggregateC defines each drainage passageway of the plurality of drainage passagewaysD from the top surfaceA to the bottom surfaceB. Such inclusion of the plurality of drainage passagewaysD allows for precipitation (e.g., rain, snow, sleet, water, and other forms of precipitation or water) to drain through the base course layerand into the subgradeor into a pair of sidewalls.

Still referring to base course layer, the base course layerdefines a first thicknessF. As best seen in, the first thicknessF is defined between the top surfaceA and the bottom surfaceB. It should be understood that the first thicknessF may be any suitable thickness dictated by the implementation of the permeable pavement structure. In one example, the stone aggregateC used to form the base course layermay consist of clear stone with a nominal size of approximately 19 mm. In one example, a first thickness of a base course layer mentioned herein may be between 150 mm up to 300 mm or between approximately 6 inches or up to approximately 12 inches when measured between a top surface of the base course layer and a bottom surface of the base course layer. In another example, a first thickness of a base course layer mentioned herein may be 300 mm or approximately 12 inches when measured between a top surface of the base course layer and a bottom surface of the base course layer; such first thickness of a base course layer of a permeable pavement structure may be desired when the permeable pavement structure is intended to be used for walkways, patios, tree pits, driveways, sidewalks, and similar implementations that experience light or moderate force. In another example, a first thickness of a base course layer mentioned herein may be 455 mm or approximately 18 inches when measured between a top surface of the base course layer and a bottom surface of the base course layer; such first thickness of a base course layer of a permeable pavement structure may be desired when the permeable pavement structure is intended to be used for parking lot stalls, parking lot driving areas or roads, loading docks, and similar implementations that experience high force. In yet another example, a first thickness of a base course layer mentioned herein may be 610 mm to 900 mm approximately 24 inches to 36 inches when measured between a top surface of the base course layer and a bottom surface of the base course layer; such first thickness of a base course layer of a permeable pavement structure may be desired when the permeable pavement structure is intended to be used for large areas with medium traffic load and high rainfall intensity and significant stormwater runoff, where enhanced stormwater management performance is required.

Permeable pavement structurealso includes a wearing course layerthat is installed inside of the support structureand operably engages with the stabilizer. As best seen in, the wearing course layeris laid on and positioned above the base course layer. As best seen in, the wearing course layerincludes the top surfaceA that is spaced apart from the base course layerand is external to the support structure, and a bottom surfaceB that directly contacts and lays on the top surfaceA of the base course layer.

The wearing course layeralso comprises aggregateC that forms the top surfaceA and the bottom surfaceB. The aggregateC may include various types and/or shapes of material to form the wearing course layer. The wearing course layermay also define a plurality of drainage passagewaysD that extends from the top surfaceA to the bottom surfaceB. In the present disclosure, the aggregateC defines each drainage passageway of the plurality of drainage passagewaysD from the top surfaceA to the bottom surfaceB. Such inclusion of the plurality of drainage passagewaysD allows for precipitation (e.g., rain, snow, sleet, water, and other forms of precipitation or water) to drain through the wearing course layerand into base course layerso that such precipitation is absorbed into the subgradeor into a pair of sidewalls. It should be understood that based on the structural configuration of the base course layerand the wearing course layer, the plurality of the drainage passagewaysD of the base course layerand the plurality of the drainage passagewaysD of the wearing course layerare in fluid communication with one another for draining precipitation.

Still referring to the wearing course layer, the aggregateC discussed above and illustrated inis stone aggregateC that forms the wearing course layer. In one example, each stone of the stone aggregateC may have a length that ranges from 2 mm to 5 mm to form the wearing course layer. In other exemplary embodiments, aggregateC may include other suitable and/or conventional material or type that would create rigidity to the wearing course layerwhile also permitting the option of draining precipitation and/or water through the wearing course layerat a desired flow rate. It should also be understood that aggregateC may be of any gradation or color depending on the implementation of the permeable pavement structurethat are mentioned herein.

The wearing course layeralso includes a binder or similar resin materialE that binds the aggregateC together to form the wearing course layeras a unitary member or piece. It should be understood that binderE may completely or partially encapsulate the aggregateC while still enabling the aggregateC to define the plurality of drainage passagewaysD. In one example, binderE may be a polyurethane (or PU) based binder that binds the aggregateC together to form the wearing course layeras a unitary member or piece. In another example, binderE may be a polyurethane (PU)-based binder, comprising between 4% and 7% by weight of the aggregateC, that binds the aggregateC together to form the wearing course layeras a unitary member or piece. In the present disclosure, the binderE may also be elastic and/or flexible in that the binderE may bend and/or flex in one or more directions. Such elasticity and/or flexibility of the binderE prevents or at least mitigates the risks of potential damage or destruction of the wearing course layerand other components of the permeable pavement structure(e.g., stabilizer) during freeze and thaw cycles in climates that experience such fluctuations in temperature. Such elasticity and/or flexibility of the binderE also prevents or at least mitigates the risks of potential damage or destruction of the wearing course layerwhen the wearing course layerexperiences an uniaxial pressure or load at elevated temperatures in climates that experience relatively high temperatures. As such, the wearing course layer, with assistance from the binderE, may allow for deformation and fatigue resistance in different climates as well as resistance to physical wear or stress applied to the wearing course layer(e.g., resistance to snow plowing and other similar physical wear or stress). The binderE may also be resistant to various chemicals commonly placed on pavements and other surfaces, including deicing salts, chlorine, oils, solvents, weak acids or bases, ozone, bromine, and other chemicals that the binderE may experience from the surrounding environment.

Still referring to wearing course layer, the wearing course layeris generally porous and may define a porosity based on the binderE that forms the wearing course layer. In the present disclosure, the porosity of wearing course layermay be between 16% up to 27% for allowing precipitation and other forms of water to drain through the wearing course layer. In one exemplary embodiment, the porosity of wearing course layermay be 27% (i.e., highest porosity) when the permeable pavement structureis implemented as a walkway, a patio, a tree pit, or similar pavement structure that is intended to experience similar force; such percentage of porosity may allow for the highest and/or greatest flow rate of precipitation and/or water through the wearing course layer. In this particular embodiment, approximately 38,000 liters per square meter per hour. In another exemplary embodiment, at least 5,660 gallons per square foot per hour may permeate and drain through the wearing course layer. In another exemplary embodiment, the porosity of wearing course layermay be 24% when the permeable pavement structureis implemented as a driveway, a sidewalk, or a similar pavement structure that is intended to experience similar forces. In another exemplary embodiment, the porosity of wearing course layermay be 22% when the permeable pavement structureis implemented as a parking lot stall or similar pavement structure that is intended to experience similar forces. In another exemplary embodiment, the porosity of wearing course layermay be 17% when the permeable pavement structureis implemented as parking lot driving area, road, or similar pavement structure that is intended to experience similar forces. In another exemplary embodiment, the porosity of wearing course layermay be 16% (i.e., lowest porosity) when the permeable pavement structureis implemented as a locking dock or similar pavement structure that is intended to experience similar force; such percentage of porosity may allow for the lowest flow rate of precipitation and/or water through the wearing course layer.

Depending on the porosity and/or density of the binderE, the wearing course layermay have various flexure strengths, tensile strength, and compressive strengths as well as various flow rates depending on said flexure strength, tensile strength, and compressive strengths. In one exemplary embodiment, the flexure strength of a wearing course layer mentioned herein may be about 6.1 MPa based on an aggregate that forms the wearing course layer. In another exemplary embodiment, the flexure strength of a wearing course layer mentioned herein may be between 2.08 MPa and 6.18 MPa based on an aggregate that forms the wearing course layer. In another exemplary embodiment, the tensile strength of a wearing course layer mentioned herein may have a range between 10.3 MPa to 75.8 MPa based on an aggregate that forms the wearing course layer. In another exemplary embodiment, the compressive strength of a wearing course layer mentioned herein may have a range between 21.3 MPa and 39.5 MPa based on an aggregate that forms the wearing course layer. In another exemplary embodiment, the tensile strength of a wearing course layer mentioned herein may have a range between 3.5 MPa and 5.5 MPa based on an aggregate that forms the wearing course layer. In another example, a binder of a wearing course layer mentioned herein may have a density between 1.0 g/cmto 1.2 g/cm, a water absorption of less than 0.5 percent, a tensile strength of 73 MPa to 76 MPa, and/or elongation of 240 percent to 250 percent.

It should be understood that binderE of wearing course layer(and other binders of wearing course layers mentioned herein) may have be a desired portion or amount for a permeable pavement structurebased on the implementation of permeable pavement structure. In one instance, a first portion or amount of binder may be used in a first application of a permeable pavement structure where such permeable pavement structure is used for walkways, patios, tree pits, driveways, sidewalks, green spaces, and similar areas that experience light force. In another instance, a second portion or amount of binder (which is greater than the first portion or amount discussed previously) may be used in a second application of a permeable pavement structure where such permeable pavement structure is used for parking lots, commercial areas, and areas with medium to high force that is greater than the light force mentioned previously.

Still referring to wearing course layer, the wearing course layerdefines a second thicknessF. As best seen in, the second thicknessF is defined between the top surfaceA and the bottom surfaceB. It should be understood that the second thicknessF may be any suitable thickness dictated by the implementation of the permeable pavement structure. In one example, a second thickness of a wearing course layer mentioned herein may be between 38 mm up to 50 mm or between approximately one and one-half inches or up to approximately 2 inches when measured between a top surface of the wearing course layer and a bottom surface of the wearing course layer. Depending on the implementation of the permeable pavement structure, the wearing course layer may define a thinner thickness that is within the range mentioned above when the permeable pavement structure is intended to be used for walkways, patios, tree pits, driveways, sidewalks, and similar that experience light or moderate force. Additionally, the wearing course layer may define a thicker thickness that is within the range mentioned above when the permeable pavement structure is intended to be used for parking lot stalls, parking lot driving areas or roads, loading docks, and similar implementations that experience high force.

In the present disclosure, the first thicknessF of the base course layeris greater than the second thicknessF of the wearing course layer. It should be noted that in other exemplary embodiments, the first thicknessF of the base course layerand the second thicknessF of the wearing course layermay define any suitable thickness relative to one another based on the implementation of the permeable pavement structure. In one exemplary embodiment, a first thickness of a base course layer may be equal to a second thickness of a wearing course layer. In another exemplary embodiment, a first thickness of a base course layer may be less than a second thickness of a wearing course layer

Permeable pavement structurealso defines an overall thicknessonce the permeable pavement structureis formed by stabilizer, the base course layer, and the wearing course layer. As best seen in, the overall thicknessis measured between the bottom surfaceB of the base course layerand the top surfaceA of the wearing course layer. In one exemplary embodiment, the overall thicknessmay be defined in a range between 188 mm up to 505 mm or between approximately 7½ inches to approximately 20 inches. In another exemplary embodiment, the overall thicknessmay be defined in a range between 188 mm up to 950 mm or between approximately 7½ inches to approximately 37½ inches. Depending on the implementation of the permeable pavement structure, the wearing course layer may define a thinner thickness that is within the range mentioned above when the permeable pavement structure is intended to be used for walkways, patios, tree pits, driveways, sidewalks, and similar that experience light or moderate force. Additionally, the wearing course layer may define a thicker thickness that is within the range mentioned above when the permeable pavement structure is intended to be used for parking lot stalls, parking lot driving areas or roads, loading docks, and similar implementations that experience high force.

The structural configuration of the permeable pavement structureis considered advantageous at least because the permeable pavement structureacts as a fully customizable floating and/or unitary structure that is housed inside of a ground surface or similar support structure. One advantage of the structural configuration is that the permeable pavement structureis that the permeable pavement structuremay include a certain thickness for each layer (e.g., base course layerand wearing course layer) based on the intended use of the permeable pavement structurewhile being held at such thickness by a stabilizer or biaxial member. Another advantage of the structural configuration of the permeable pavement structureis that the wearing course layermay be designed and configured with a predetermined density of aggregate (e.g., aggregateC) and a predetermined porosity of binder (e.g., binderE) to maximize a desired flexural and compressive strength along the wearing course layerwhile also providing a desired flow rate for draining precipitation or water through the wearing course layer. Another advantage of the structural configuration of the permeable pavement structureis that the wearing course layermay be designed to promote environmental sustainability by reducing surface runoff, recharging groundwater, and contributing to urban resilience in alignment with sponge city strategies, thereby mitigating urban flooding and improving overall stormwater management. Another advantage of the structural configuration of the permeable pavement structureis that the wearing course layermay be designed and configured with a binder (e.g., binderE) to maximize the desired flexural strength and enhance the frost resistance of the permeable pavement structure, which maintains mechanical integrity and permeability even under repeated freeze-thaw cycles, making it well-suited for cold climate applications.

The structural configuration of the permeable pavement structureis considered advantageous at least because the stabilizermay provide support in at least one or more planes based on the shape and/or configuration of the support structure. In the present disclosure, the stabilizermay provide support in a first plane (dashed line labeled “P” in) along the bottom surfaceB of the base course layer, a second plane (dashed line labeled “P” in) along a first portion of the base course layerand a first portion of the wearing course layeralong the first sidewall of the pair of sidewalls, and a third plane (dashed line labeled “P” in) along a second portion of the base course layerand a second portion of the wearing course layeralong the second sidewall of the pair of sidewalls. In the present disclosure, the first plane Pis vertically below the second plane Pand the third plane P, while the first plane Pis orthogonal to the second plane Pand the third plane P. In other exemplary embodiments, a stabilizer mentioned herein may provide support in one or more planes of a permeable pavement structure.

Having now discussed the components and features of pavement structure, a method of manufacturing and installing the permeable pavement structureis discussed in greater detail below.

Prior to installing a permeable pavement structure, the hole or support structuredefined in the ground surfaceis dug to a certain depth in the ground surfacebased on the intended use of installing permeable pavement structure. Once dug, the support structuremay be defined by the subgradeand the pair of sidewallsas discussed previously. If desired, the subgrademay be compacted by a desired compacting tool or machine to ensure the subgradeis free from being loose dirt and/or stone.

It should be noted that the subgrademay be prepared based on the intended application of the permeable pavement structure. In one instance, the subgrademay need proper or desired compaction prior to installing a base course layer (such as base course layer) when the permeable pavement structureis intended to be used for parking lots, commercial areas, residential areas, and similar areas the experience medium to high forces. In another instance, subgrademay be free from any compaction prior to installing a base course layer (such as base course layer) when the permeable pavement structureis intended to be used for walkways, patios, tree pits, driveways, sidewalks, green spaces, and similar areas that experience light forces. Such preparation methods of the subgradeensures a suitable foundation for the installation of the permeable paving structure.

Once the support structureis provided stabilizermay then be introduced into the support structure. As best seen in, the stabilizerdirectly contacts and engages with the subgradeand the pair of sidewalls. If desired, the stabilizermay be attached to the subgradeand/or the pair of sidewallsby one or more ground fasteners or connectors to prevent the stabilizerfrom shifting or moving inside of the support structure. In the present disclosure, the outer surfaceD of the stabilizerdirectly contacts and engages with the subgradeand/and the pair of sidewallswhile the inner surfaceC of the stabilizerfaces away from the subgradeand the pair of sidewalls.

Once the stabilizeris positioned, the base course layermay then be introduced into the support structureand installed with the stabilizer. In the present disclosure, the aggregateC may engage with the subgradethrough the stabilizerwhile also engaging with the stabilizer. Similarly, the aggregateC may also engage with the pair of sidewallsthrough the stabilizerwhile also engaging with the stabilizer. Such force applied by the aggregateC stretches and/or expands the stabilizerin one or more directions to place tension along the entire length of the stabilizermaking the pavement structuremore rigid and stiff to prevent the permeable pavement structure, including the base course layer, from shifting or moving inside of the support structure.

As the aggregateC is placed in the support structure, the aggregateC begins to define the plurality of drainage passagewaysD to provide drainage and/or water irrigation through the base course layer. It should be understood that any suitable number of drainage passageways of the plurality of drainage passagewaysD may be defined based on the placement and arrangement of the aggregateC. The amount of aggregateC needed to form the base course layeris dependent upon the intended use of the permeable pavement structure; as such, the first thicknessF of the base course layeris dependent upon the intended use of the permeable pavement structure.

Once the base course layeris installed, the wearing course layermay then be introduced into the support structureand installed with the stabilizerand the base course layer. In the present disclosure, the aggregateC may engage with the subgradethrough the stabilizerwhile also engaging with the stabilizer. Similarly, the aggregateC may also engage with the pair of sidewallsthrough the stabilizerwhile also engaging with the stabilizer. Similar to the aggregateC of the base course layer, the force applied by the aggregateC stretches and/or expands the stabilizerin one or more directions to place tension along the entire length of the stabilizermaking the pavement structuremore rigid and stiff to prevent the permeable pavement structure, including the wearing course layer, from shifting or moving inside of the support structure.

As the aggregateC is placed in the support structure, the aggregateC begins to define the plurality of drainage passagewaysD to provide drainage and/or water irrigation through the wearing course layer. It should be understood that any suitable number of drainage passageways of the plurality of drainage passagewaysD may be defined based on the placement and arrangement of the aggregateC. The amount of aggregateC needed to form the wearing course layeris dependent upon the intended use of the permeable pavement structure; as such, the second thicknessF of the wearing course layeris dependent upon the intended use of the permeable pavement structure. Once the aggregateC is installed, the binderE is then applied to the aggregateC so that aggregateC is bound as a unitary member or piece to form the wearing course layer. It should be understood that the binderE applied to the aggregateC will have a predetermined porosity based on the intended use of the permeable pavement structure. Upon such installation of the wearing course layer, the permeable pavement structureis complete and defines the overall thicknessthat is based on the intended use of the permeable pavement structure.

Once the permeable pavement structureis installed, precipitation or water (generally labeled as) that falls and permeates into the permeable pavement structuredrains through the permeable pavement structureand into the ground surface. As best seen in, precipitationis diagrammatically shown as rain drops falling from the external environment that surrounds the permeable pavement structure. As the precipitationinitially flows through the wearing course layer(denoted asin), the precipitationmay travel at a first flow rate based on the porosity of the binderE as well as the density and/or size of each passageway of the set of passagewaysD defined by the aggregateC. Similarly, the precipitationmay travel at a second flow rate as the precipitationtravels through the base course layerbased on the density and/or size of each passageway of the set of passagewaysD defined by the aggregateC. Once the precipitationexits the base course layer, the precipitationthen enters and is absorbed into at least the subgrade, which may then be drained into an underground drainage pipe or tile. While not illustrated herein, the precipitationmay be absorbed into one or both of the sidewalls of the pair of sidewalls, which may then be drained into an underground drainage pipe or tile.

While the permeable pavement structureis described and illustrated as being installed inside of the support structure, the permeable pavement structuremay be constructed completely outside of the support structuregiven that the permeable pavement structureis a unitary member. As such, the steps discussed above as to installing the permeable pavement structuremay be performed away and/or remote from the support structure. In this instance, additional tools and/or structures may be used to provide assistance when forming this permeable pavement structureaway from the desired support structure.

illustrates an alternative permeable pavement structure′ that is similar to the permeable pavement structurediscussed above and illustrated in. Particularly, permeable pavement structure′ includes a stabilizer′, a base course layer′, and a wearing course layer′ that are substantially similar to the stabilizer, the base course layer, and the wearing course layerof the permeable pavement structure.

However, in this particular embodiment, permeable pavement structure′ includes a peripheral drain barrier or structure (hereinafter “drain barrier”) that is generally referred to as′. As best seen in, the drain barrier′ includes a top surfaceA′ that is substantially parallel with a top surface (e.g., top surfaceA) of the wearing course layer′, a bottom surfaceB′ that is opposite to and below the top surfaceA′, and aggregateC′ that forms the drain barrier′ between the top surface′ and the bottom surfaceB′. The aggregateC′ may include various types and/or shapes of material, such as stone or other material, to form the drain barrier′. The drain barrier′ may also define a plurality of drainage passagewaysD′ that extends from the top surfaceA′ to the bottom surfaceB′. In the present disclosure, the aggregateC′ defines each drainage passageway of the plurality of drainage passagewaysD′ from the top surfaceA′ to the bottom surfaceB′. Such inclusion plurality of drainage passagewaysD′ allows for precipitation (e.g., rain, snow, sleet, water, and other forms of precipitation or water) to drain through the drain barrier′ and into a drainage pipe or similar drainage member, which is discussed in greater detail below.

It should be understood that each drainage passageway of the plurality of drainage passagewaysD′ is greater than the each drainage passageway of a plurality of drainage passageways (e.g., plurality of drainage passagewaysD) defined by the aggregate of the wearing course layer′. With such configuration, the drain barrier′ is configured to receive and drain precipitation and other runoff received from the surrounding environment, including the sloped surfaceof ground surface, prior to the same precipitation and runoff reaching the wearing course layer′. As such, any external elements and/or material that is included in the precipitation or runoff, including dirt, vegetation, and other similar material found in areas that permeable pavement structure′ would be installed, are drained through the drain barrier′ prior to the same precipitation and other runoff reaching the wearing course layer′. By including the drain barrier′, external elements and/or material that is included in the precipitation or runoff is substantially free from interacting with and being drained by the wearing course layer′ which could result in unwanted issues, including blockages created inside of the wearing course layer′ by said external elements and/or material included in the runoff.

Still referring to drain barrier′, the drain barrier′ defines a drain thicknessF′. As best seen in, the drain thicknessF′ is defined between the top surfaceA′ and the bottom surfaceB′. In the present disclosure, the drain thicknessF′ is greater than a thickness of the wearing course layer′ and is less than a thickness of the base course layer′. In other exemplary embodiments, the drain thicknessF′ may be any suitable thickness dictated by the implementation of the permeable pavement structure′. In one example, a drain thickness mentioned herein may be less than a thickness of a wearing course layer mentioned herein and a thickness of a base course layer mentioned herein. In another example, a drain thickness mentioned herein may be greater than a thickness of a wearing course layer mentioned herein and a thickness of a base course layer mentioned herein.

Upon installation, the drain barrier′ may operably engage with one or more stabilizers′. In the present disclosure, a single stabilizer′ operably engages with the drain barrier′. However, a guard or material may be placed around the drain barrier′ to prevent unwanted runoff from entering into the adjacent layers of the permeable pavement structure′, including the base course layer′ and the wearing course layer′. As such, a solid and/or non-permeable guard or material may be placed around the drain barrier′ so that the runoff is drained exclusively by the drain barrier′ and is prevented from entering into the adjacent layers of the permeable pavement structure′.

Drain barrier′ may also be in fluid communication with a drainage pipe or member′. As best seen in, drainage pipe′ is positioned below the drain barrier′ to receive any precipitation and/or runoff collected by the drain barrier′. In the present disclosure, the drainage pipe′ may be a perforated pipe or weeping tile that is configured to receive precipitation and/or runoff along the entire length of the drainage pipe′. The drainage pipe′ may also be held by a sublayer or drainage layer′. In one example, the sublayer′ may be additional material that is added with the permeable pavement structure′. In another example, the sublayer′ may be formed by the ground surfacesuch that sublayer′ is a cutout or carved out portion of the ground surface.

It should be understood that drain barrier′ and the drainage pipe′ may also be configured to prevent any escapement of said precipitation and/or runoff into the surrounding components of the permeable pavement structure′ (i.e., base course layeror wearing course layer′) as well as surrounding ground elements or structures. As such, added material and/or barriers may be added between the drain barrier′ and the drainage pipe′ to prevent unwanted precipitation and runoff from entering into the base course layeror wearing course layer′.

In operation, the drain barrier′ is configured to receive and drain unwanted precipitation and runoff prior to being received by the remaining components of the permeable pavement structure′, including base course layeror wearing course layer′. As best seen in, precipitation or runoff, generally referred to as′, is rushing down a sloped surfaceof the ground surfacethat is adjacent to the permeable pavement structure′. As the runoff′ passes over the aggregateC′ of drain barrier′, the runoff′ enters into one or more drain passageways of the plurality of drain passagewaysD′ defined between one or more stones of the aggregateC′. As the runoff′ travels downwardly through the drain barrier′, the runoff′ is then drained into the drainage pipe′ and transported away from the permeable pavement structure′ to a downstream sewer system or collection area. As mentioned above, the runoff′ collected and drained by the drain barrier′ and drainage pipe′ may not enter into surrounding components of the permeable pavement structure′, such as base course layer′ and wearing course layer′, and the surrounding ground or support structures, including sublayerand sidewalls.