Patent Publication Number: US-8967918-B2

Title: Anchor arrangement for use with open mat system; open mat system; and methods for reinforcing earth

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of application Ser. No. 13/069,954, filed Mar. 23, 2011, issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,651,771 which application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     This disclosure concerns an anchor arrangement for use with an open mat system to reinforce earth, such as soil or ground or turf and provide mechanical protection over highly erosive areas. This disclosure also concerns open mat systems utilizing such anchor arrangements and methods for use. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Highly erosive areas include storm water pipe outfalls, curb outfalls, over-flow structures, and shorelines. In regions where there is a high shear force resulting from excessive velocities and turbulences, environmental scour can result. 
     To prevent scour, turf reinforcement mats have been provided. Such mats provide mechanical protection over these highly erosive areas and are typically placed over soil cover. Anchors are needed to secure the mat to the earth, turf, soil, or ground. Improvements in anchor arrangements and mat systems are desirable. 
     SUMMARY 
     In one aspect, an anchor arrangement for use with an open mat system to reinforce turf is provided. The anchor arrangement includes an anchor head constructed and arranged to be embedded in earth. A cable is connected to the anchor head. A cable connector device is provided. The cable is inserted into the connector device, and the connector device holds the cable against withdrawal from the connector. A brace having a receiver is provided. The cable connector device is removably oriented within the receiver in the brace. 
     In one embodiment, the brace comprises a pair of legs joined at a bight section to form a u-shaped receiver. Each of the legs has a mat holding segment extending from an end opposite of the bight section. The cable connector device is removably oriented in the u-shaped receiver. 
     In one embodiment, the cable connector device, when oriented in the u-shaped receiver, is even with or below each mat holding segment. 
     In another aspect, an open mat system to reinforce turf is provided. The system includes at least a first open grid mat against the turf. The open grid mat includes a matrix of rigid members defining open pockets in between the rigid members. At least one anchor arrangement to secure the mat to the turf is provided. The anchor arrangement includes an anchor head embedded in the earth, a cable connected to the anchor head, a cable connector device, and a brace. The cable is inserted into the cable connector device, and the connector device holds the cable against withdrawal from the connector device. The brace has a pair of legs joined at a bight section to form a u-shaped receiver. Each of the legs has a mat holding segment extending from an end opposite of the bight section. The u-shaped receiver is oriented within a first one of the open pockets, and each mat holding segment is oriented in a direction against the rigid members. The cable connector device is removably oriented in the u-shaped receiver within the first open pocket. 
     In one embodiment, there is at least a second open grid mat against the turf. Each of the first and second mats has a pair of side edges and a pair of end edges between the side edges. The at least second open grid mat is adjacent to the first mat so that one of the end edges of the first mat is overlapping one of the end edges of the second mat. There is at least one rivet through the overlapping end edges to secure the first and second mats together. 
     In one embodiment, there is at least a third open grid mat against the turf. The third open grid mat has a pair of side edges and a pair of end edges between the side edges. The at least third open grid mat is adjacent to the first mat so that one of the side edges of the first mat is overlapping one of the side edges of the third mat. There is at least one spring clip around the overlapping side edges to secure the first and third mats together. 
     In one embodiment, each of the first mat, second mat, and third mat side edges have tabs separated by recessed areas. The recessed areas of each of the mats are sized and arranged to receive the tabs of another of the mats. 
     In one embodiment, the spring clip includes at least a first arm and a second arm joined by a bridge section to form a u-shape. The first arm has a first lance projecting therefrom, the first lance having a free end. The free end extends in a direction toward the second arm and the bridge section. The second arm has a second lance projecting therefrom, the second lance having a free end. The free end of the second lance extends in a direction toward the first arm and the bridge section. 
     In one embodiment, the first, second, and third mats are part of a plurality of open grid mats arranged adjacent to each other and against the turf. Each of the open grid mats is a matrix of rigid members defining open pockets in between the rigid members. Each of the mats has a pair of side edges and a pair of end edges between the side edges. The mats in the plurality are arranged so that one of the end edges of one mat overlaps one of the end edges of another of the mats, and one of the side edges of one mat overlaps one of the side edges of another of the mats. Each of the mats of the plurality has at least four anchor arrangements per mat. There are at least three rivets through overlapping end edges of each of the mats. There are at least two spring clips around the overlapping side edges of the mats. 
     In another aspect, a method of reinforcing turf is provided. The method includes laying a first open grid mat against the turf, the open grid mat being a matrix of rigid members defining open pockets in between the rigid members. The mat has a top and an opposite bottom. The bottom is against the turf. The method also includes the step of securing the mat to the turf by embedding an anchor head in the earth by inserting the anchor head into the earth through a first one of the open pockets. The anchor head has a cable connected thereto extending from the anchor head in the earth and through the first open pocket. The cable has a portion secured to a cable connector device holding the cable against withdrawal from the connector. The cable connector device is inserted into a receiver in a brace. The brace and cable connector device are inserted into the first open pocket. There is also the step of pulling the cable through the cable connector device to engage the anchor head. 
     In on example, the brace has integrated into the interior portion a set of projections that restricts the connector device from disengaging in an upward direction when the cable is tensioned for final tightening of the anchor system. 
     In one embodiment, the method includes after the step of pulling the cable through the cable connector device, cutting the cable a distance above the cable connector device to form a cut end; looping the cut end back in a direction toward the cable connector device; and then inserting the cut end into the cable connector device. 
     In one embodiment, the step of inserting the brace and cable connector device includes recessing the cable connector device within the first open pocket relative to the top of the mat. 
     In one embodiment, the step of inserting the cable connector device into a receiver in a brace includes inserting the cable connector device into a brace comprising a pair of legs joined at a bight section to form a u-shaped receiver. Each of the legs has a mat holding segment extending from an end opposite of the bight section. 
     In one embodiment, the step of inserting the brace and cable connector device into the first open pocket includes inserting the u-shaped receiver within the first open pocket so that each mat holding segment is oriented in a direction against the top of the mat. 
     In one embodiment, the method further includes laying a second open grid mat against the turf and adjacent to an end edge of the first open grid mat, and securing the first mat and second mat together by inserting at least one rivet through adjacent end edges of the mats. 
     In one embodiment, the method further includes laying a second open grid mat against the turf and adjacent to a side edge of the first open grid mat, and securing the first mat and second mat together by interlocking the adjacent side edges and snapping at least one clip around the adjacent side edges of the mats. 
     In another aspect, a clip connecting together adjacent open grid mats is provided. The clip includes a first arm and a second arm joined by a bridge section to form a u-shape. The first arm has a first lance projecting therefrom with a free end. The free end extends in a direction toward the second arm and the bridge section. The second arm has a second lance projecting therefrom with a free end. The free end of the second lance extends in a direction toward the first arm and the bridge section. 
     In one embodiment, the first lance projects at an angle of 30-45° relative to the first arm, and the second lance projects at an angle of 30-45° relative to the second arm. 
     In one embodiment, the first lance is oriented a distance of greater than 50% of an overall length of the first arm from the bridge section, and the second lance is oriented a distance of greater than 50% of an overall length of the second arm from the bridge section. 
     It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the invention, as claimed. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate example embodiments of the invention and together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a schematic, perspective view of one embodiment of an open mat system, constructed in accordance with principles of this disclosure; 
         FIG. 2  is a top view of one of the mats used in the open mat system of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3  is a front view of an anchor arrangement for use with the open mat system of  FIG. 1 , constructed in accordance with principles of this disclosure; 
         FIG. 4  is a schematic side view showing one step of inserting the anchor arrangement of  FIG. 3  into earth, in accordance with principles of this disclosure; 
         FIG. 5  is a schematic, side view illustrating another step of installing the anchor arrangement of  FIGS. 3 and 4  into earth, in accordance with principles of this disclosure; 
         FIG. 6  is a side view of one embodiment of a brace used in the anchor arrangement of  FIG. 3 , constructed in accordance with principles of this disclosure; 
         FIG. 7  is a side view of an anchor head and cable used as part of the anchor arrangement of  FIG. 3 , constructed in accordance with principles of this disclosure; 
         FIG. 8  is a cross sectional view of one embodiment of a cable connector device used with the anchor arrangement of  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 9  is a top view of the cable connector device of  FIG. 8  removably oriented in a receiver of the brace of  FIG. 6 , constructed in accordance with principles of this disclosure; 
         FIG. 10  is a side view of the cable connector device being held by the brace of  FIG. 9 , constructed in accordance with principles of this disclosure; 
         FIG. 11  is a top view of the anchor arrangement of  FIG. 3  operably installed in the open mat of  FIG. 2 , constructed in accordance with principles of this disclosure; 
         FIG. 12  is a side view of a spring clip used to secure adjacent mats together, constructed in accordance with principles of this disclosure; 
         FIG. 13  is a schematic, side view showing the spring clip of  FIG. 12  connecting together overlapping side edges of adjacent mats, constructed in accordance with principles of this disclosure; 
         FIG. 14  is a schematic, perspective view of a rivet being used to secure overlapping end edges of two adjacent mats; and 
         FIG. 15  is a schematic, perspective view showing the rivet and adjacent mats of  FIG. 14  after insertion of the rivet. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     A. Overview 
     In reference now to  FIG. 1 , an open mat system to reinforce turf is shown generally at  20 . The system  20  is shown reinforcing the turf  21  along a shoreline  22 . To prevent scour, the system  20  includes turf reinforcement mats  24  placed over soil cover. In the system of  FIG. 1 , the system  20  includes a plurality of mats  24 . The plurality of mats  24  are arranged adjacent to each other and against the turf. Preferred ways of connecting individual mats  24  are described below. 
       FIG. 2  is a top view of one embodiment of mat  24 . The mat  24  may be constructed in accordance with U.S. Pat. No. 4,953,501 incorporated herein by reference. Preferably, the mat  24  comprises an open grid mat of a matrix of rigid members  28  defining open pockets  30  between the rigid members  28 . In the example shown, the pockets are square-shaped. 
     In the preferred embodiment, the open grid mat  24  is made from a hard rigid plastic, such as polypropylene or polyethylene. The use of polymeric material will result in a sturdy mat  24  with high strength and relatively low weight. 
     A variety of sizes can be used. In preferred embodiments, each mat  24  has a length of at least 3 feet, preferably 4 feet (48 inches) and width of at least 1 foot, preferably 2 feet (24 inches). As can be seen in  FIG. 2 , the mat  24  has a general rectangular shape. 
     Mat  24  includes opposite, parallel end edges  32 ,  33 . Extending between the end, edges  32 ,  33  are opposite, parallel side edges  35 ,  36 . The side edges  35 ,  36  define the length, while the end edges  32 ,  33  define the width. The members  28  form a grid between the end edges  32 ,  33  and side edges  35 ,  36 . 
     In preferred embodiments, each of the side edges  35 ,  36  have a plurality of tabs  38  separated by recessed areas  40 . In use, when adjacent mats  24  are arranged next to each other, with side edges  35 ,  36  adjacent and aligned, the recessed areas  40  of one mat  24  is sized and arranged to receive the tabs  38  of the mat  24  that is adjacent to it. In this manner, there is at least a portion of one of the side edges  35 ,  36  overlapping a portion of the side edges  35 ,  36  of the adjacent mat without protruding. An example of this can be seen in  FIG. 13 , described below. Through the tabs  38  and recessed areas  40 , the mats  24  intersect with each other along the side edges  35 ,  36  and form a smooth joint therebetween. 
     The opposite end edges  32 ,  33  of the mat  24  are constructed and arranged to overlap with each other, when arranged adjacent to another mat  24 . For example, as can be seen in  FIG. 2 , the end edge  32  has a recessed shelf  42 , while the end edge  33  has an overlap extension  44 . When one mat  24  is aligned with the end edge of another mat  24 , they are aligned so that the shelf  42  in received under the overlap extension  44 , to help create an even, smooth, and non-protruding joint or connection point. This can be seen in  FIG. 15 , explained further below. 
     Each of the mats  24  also has a thickness or height from a top upper surface  46  to an opposite bottom turf engaging surface  48  ( FIG. 15 ). In typical embodiments, this height or thickness is about 0.5 inches. 
     As can be seen in  FIG. 2 , in the preferred embodiment, each mat  24  includes a first grid section  50  and a second grid section  52  separated by a strip  54  of solid, non grid area. Typically, the strip  54  has a length that is equal to about one column  56  of pockets  30 . The matrix  26  can be described as a plurality of columns  56  of pockets  30 , intersecting with rows  57  of pockets  30 . 
     B. Example Anchor System 
     As mentioned in the background section, open mat systems to prevent or reduce the incidence of scour need to be effectively anchored. Prior anchor systems have used high profile projections that extend above the mat. This high profile can lead to hazards and problems such as persons tripping and falling. Further, the high profile, in combination with high flow hydraulic conditions, can create turbulence in what would otherwise be a laminar flow condition. Turbulence can lead to hydraulic instability and result in increased forces lifting the mat and the soil beneath. 
     In  FIG. 3 , one useful anchor arrangement that solves these problems is shown generally at  60 . The anchor arrangement  60  is high strength, reliable, and is adjustable to having a low profile relative to the mat  24  to minimize hydraulic flow turbulence and to reduce hazards such as tripping, falling, and cutting. The anchor arrangement  60  is adjustable and can be tightened or re-cinched, if needed. 
     1. Example Anchor Head 
     In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 3 , the anchor arrangement  60  includes an anchor head  62  (or foot). The anchor head  62  is constructed and arranged to be embedded in earth  23 . In the embodiment shown, the anchor head  62  includes a nose  64  and an opposite tail  66 . In the embodiment shown, the tail  66  is tapered. The tail  66  defines an opening  68  ( FIG. 4 ) that is sized to receive a removable drive rod  70 . In this manner, the drive rod  70  can be inserted into the opening  68  in the tail  66  and used to push the anchor head  62  into the earth  23  until reaching a suitable depth below the surface of the turf  21 . The drive rod  70  is then removed from the anchor head  62  and out of the earth  23 . 
     At that stage, the anchor head  62  is set in the earth  23  to help lock it in place by moving the anchor head  62  from its initial position to a set position. The initial position includes the nose  64  of the anchor head  62  being at the lowest most relative point of the anchor head  62 , with the opposite tail  66  being at the highest relative point of the anchor head  62 . The set position includes a horizontal position, in which the anchor head  62  is rotated so that the nose  64  is relatively even with the tail  66 , such as the orientation shown in  FIG. 3 .  FIG. 5  shows the anchor head  62  as it is being rotated from the initial position of  FIG. 4  to the set position of  FIG. 3 . 
     One useful anchor head  62  is described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,044,513, incorporated herein by reference. Other embodiments may be used. The anchor head  62  can be made from metal or a polymeric material. 
     2. Example Cable 
     The anchor arrangement  60  further includes a cable  72  connected to the anchor head  62 . The cable  72  should have a sufficient tensile strength to help secure the mats  24  in the turf  21  against high shear load due to water or other fluid. One suitable cable  72  includes flexible steel cable, such as 3/32 inch galvanized steel cable, nylon coated. The cable may also be made from a polymeric material. 
     The cable  72  is connected to the anchor head  62 . For example, as can be seen in  FIGS. 3 and 7 , the anchor head  62  has a through hole  74  with the cable  72  extending therethrough to connect the cable  72  to the anchor head  62 . In one implementation, a crimp  76  is used to connect the cable  72  to itself so that the cable  72  forms a loop  78  through the through hole  74  in the anchor head  62 . 
     After the anchor head  62  is inserted in the earth  23 , as shown in  FIG. 4 , the rod  70  is removed, and the cable  72  is used to exert a pulling force on the anchor head  62 . This pulling force acts on the area of the anchor head  62  in which the cable  72  is connected to it. As can be seen in  FIGS. 3 ,  5 , and  7 , the cable  72  is connected at the through hole  74 , which is about midway between the tail  66  and nose  64 . The pulling force exerted by the cable  72  at this mid-section  80  of the anchor head  62  will cause the anchor head  62  to rotate from a vertical position ( FIGS. 4 and 7 ) about 90° to a horizontal position ( FIG. 3 ). This is because the pulling force on the cable  72  encounters resistance by the earth  23  that is pushing against the tapered tail  66  of the anchor head  62 . This resistance by the earth  23  on the tail  66  prevents the anchor head  62  from being pulled straight out of the channel  82  ( FIGS. 4 and 5 ) that was created by the insertion of the anchor head  62  and the drive rod  70 . Rather, the earth  23  causes resistance against the tail  66 , which causes the anchor head  62  to rotate to the anchored or set position, as shown in  FIG. 3 . 
     3. Example Cable Connector Device 
     In reference again to  FIG. 3 , the anchor arrangement  60  depicted includes a cable connector device  84 . The cable  72  is inserted into the cable connector device  84  in a first direction, and a connector device  84  holds the cable  72  against withdrawal from the connector device  84  in a direction opposite from the first direction. 
     An example of one embodiment of connector device  84  is illustrated in cross-section in  FIG. 8 . In the embodiment shown, the connector device  84  includes a body  86 , preferably a metal body, having a pair or twin bores  88 ,  89  sized to receive the cable  72 . As can be seen in  FIG. 8 , the cable connector device  84  includes a spring loaded wedge arrangement  90  within the body  86 , which squeezes the cable  72  within the body  86  to hold the cable  72  against withdrawal from the body  86  of the connector device  84  in a direction opposite from the first direction. 
     The body  86  of the connector device  84  has first and second opposite ends  92 ,  93 . Each of the bores  88 ,  89  extend completely between the first end  92  and second end  93 . In the embodiment shown, the bore  88  has an insertion hole  95  into the body  86  through the first end  92  and an exit hole  96  through the second end  93 . The bore  89  has an insertion hole  98  through the second end  93  and an exit hole  99  through the first end  92 . 
     In this manner, cable  72  could be inserted through the insertion hole  95  of the bore  88 , until emerging from the exit hole  96 . The wedge arrangement  90  would prevent the cable  72  from being withdrawn from the connector device  84  back through the insertion hole  95 . Similarly, the cable  72  could be inserted through the insertion hole  98  of the bore  89  and through the body  86  until emerging through the exit hole  99 . The wedge arrangement  90  would prevent the cable  72  from being retracted from the body  88  through the insertion hole  98 . 
     In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 8 , the wedge arrangement  90  includes first and second wedges  101 ,  102 . The first wedge  101  is oriented within the body  86  so that it protrudes in the bore  88 . A first spring  104  urges the first wedge  101  against an internal stop surface  106  within the body  86 , when no cable  72  is present in the bore  88 . When the cable  72  is inserted through the insertion hole  95  at the first end  92 , the cable  72  engages the first wedge  101  and pushes it against the first spring  104 . Serrations or teeth  108  on the first wedge  101  dig into the cable  72  and help to prevent the cable  72  from being removed from the body  86  through the insertion hole  95  of the bore  88 . 
     The second wedge  102  operates analogously as the first wedge  101  with respect to the bore  89 . As such, the second wedge  102  protrudes into the bore  89  and includes a second spring  110  urging the second wedge  102  against stop surface  112  when no cable is within the bore  89 . The second wedge  102  includes serrations or teeth  114  that dig into and by way of friction hold the cable  72  that is inserted through the insertion hole  98  at the second end  93  of the body  86 . In this manner, cable  72  inserted through the insertion hole  98  will push against the second wedge  102  and will emerge from the exit hole  99 . The teeth  114  and the wedge shape of the second wedge  102  prevent the cable  72  from being withdrawn through the insertion hole  98 . 
     The body  86  also includes access bores  116 ,  117  from each respective first end  92  and second end  93 . The access bores  116 ,  117  are generally parallel to the bores  88 ,  89  and allow insertion of a rod-like tool for pushing the respective wedge  101 ,  102  out of contact with the cable  72 , in case the cable  72  needs to be removed from the connector device  84 . 
     One useful connector device  84  is described in patent publication US 2004/0048522, incorporated herein by reference. A commercially available connector device can be obtained under the trade name Gripple®, made by Gripple, Inc., Aurora, Ill. 
     In use, one of the bores  88 ,  89  will hold the cable  72  as it extends from above the turf, through the connector device  84 , and ending at the anchor head  62 . 
     4. Example Brace 
     In reference to  FIGS. 3 and 6 , the anchor arrangement  60  further includes a brace  120 . The brace  120  defines a receiver  122 , which is used to removably hold the connector device  84 . 
     The brace  120  has the primary function of holding the connector device  84  relative to the mats  24  so that the anchor arrangement  60  stays in place, holding the mat  24  in place. In preferred embodiments, the brace  120  holds the connector device  84  within one of the pockets  30 , so that the connector device  84  is recessed relative to the top upper surface  46  of the mat  24 . 
     While a variety of implementations are contemplated, in the particular embodiment illustrated, the brace  120  includes a pair of legs—first leg  124  and second leg  125 . The first and second legs  124 ,  125  are joined at a joining section, such as a bight section  127 . In the preferred arrangement shown, the first leg  124 , second leg  125 , and adjoining bight section  127  is a single, one piece construction that forms receiver  122 . Preferably, the receiver  122  is a u-shaped receiver  130 . 
     In the example embodiment of  FIG. 6 , each of the first leg  124  and second leg  125  includes a nipple or projection  131 ,  132  extending from the respective leg  124 ,  125  inwardly into the receiver  122 . The projections  131 ,  132 , in the embodiment shown, are located closer to the bight section  127  than to an open mouth  134  of the receiver  122 . The projections  131 ,  132  help to hold the connector device  84  within the receiver  122  by engagement against the body  86  of the connector device  84 . The projections  131 ,  132  also assure that the connector device  84  can be inserted and removed into and from the brace  120  only when the brace  120  is not inset into the mats  24 . 
     Still in reference to  FIG. 6 , this embodiment of the brace  120  includes first and second mat holding segments  136 ,  137 . In the example shown, the first leg  124  has first mat holding segment  136  extending from the mouth  134  of the receiver  122 . It also extends from an end  138  opposite of the bight section  127 . Similarly, the second leg  125  has second mat holding segment  137  extending from the mouth  134 , which also corresponds to an end  139  opposite of the bight section  127 . 
     In preferred embodiments, the first mat holding segment  136  is angled between 85° and 95° of the first leg  124 , while the second mat holding segment  137  is angled between 85° and 95° of the second leg  125 . Typically, the first and second mat holding segments  136 ,  137  will be at about a 90° angle relative to their respective legs  124 ,  125 . The first and second mat holding segments  136 ,  137  function to engage in a direction toward, and preferably against, the members  28  of the mat  24 . See, for example,  FIG. 11 . In  FIG. 11 , the brace  120  holding the connector device  84  can be seen oriented within one of the pockets  30 . The mat holding segments  136 ,  137  are pressed against members  28  of the grid or matrix  26 . In the preferred orientation, the brace  120  is sized so that when the brace  120  is holding the connector device  84 , it is oriented within the pocket  30  so that the brace  120  extends diagonally through the pocket  30 . As such, the first mat holding segment is against an intersection of two of the members  28 , while the second mat holding segment  137  is also against an intersection of two of the members  28  located diagonally from the location of where the first mat holding segment  136  is oriented. 
     When oriented in the manner shown in  FIG. 11 , the u-shaped receiver  130  generally extends diagonally between opposite corners  141 ,  142 , as where the first and second mat holding segments  136 ,  137  are located. The connector device  84 , which is located within the u-shaped receiver  130 , projects or extends beyond the sides  144 ,  145  of the brace  120  and extends diagonally between the other corners  147 ,  148  of the pocket  30 . 
     In the example embodiment shown in  FIG. 6 , each of the mat holding segments  136 ,  137  has a free end  150 ,  151  angled relative to the respective mat holding segment  136 ,  137 . As shown in  FIG. 6 , the free ends  150 ,  151  are angled from the respective mat holding segments  136 ,  137  downwardly in a direction toward the remaining portion of the brace  120  in a direction toward the bight section  127 . 
     A variety of materials can be used for the brace  120 . In one useful embodiment, the brace is made from steel, such as 12-gauge, hot rolled steel. The steel may have corrosion inhibitors such as a zinc clear chromate plate finish, although such a finish is optional. The overall width between the projections  131 ,  132  would be about 0.25-0.35 inch. The width of each leg  124 ,  125  would be about 0.4-0.6 inch. Typical width across a widest section of the body  86  of the connector device  84  would be about 0.85-0.95 inch, such that the connector device  84  extends beyond the sides  144 ,  145  ( FIGS. 9 and 10 ) of the brace  120  by about 0.15-0.25 inch on each side  144 ,  145 . The radius of the bight section  127  would be about 0.18 inch. The overall height of the brace  120  from the tip of the bight section  127  to the top of the first and second holding segments  136 ,  137  would be about 1.5-1.6 inches. The overall width across the widest part of the brace  120  between free end  150  and free end  151  would be about 2.8-3.0 inches. Alternatively, the brace  120  can be molded out of a polymeric material, which will be resistant to corrosion, have a longer life, and has a lower cost. 
     5. Example Method of Use 
     In use, the mat  24  is secured to the earth  23  by embedding the anchor head  62  in the earth  23  by inserting the anchor head  62  into the earth  23  through a first one of the open pockets  30 . This can be done, for example, by using drive rod  70  into the opening  68  in the anchor head  62  and pressing the anchor head  62  into the earth  23  by use of the rod  70 . This is done until the anchor head  62  is at the desired level of depth within the earth  23 . 
     The anchor head will have cable  72  connected thereto, and it will extend from the anchor head  62  and through the first open pocket  30 . The connector device  84  will be holding the cable  72  against withdrawal from the connector device  84 . The cable connector device  84  is then inserted into the receiver  122  in the brace  120 . The brace  120  and the cable connector device  84  are then inserted or placed into the first open pocket  30 . Preferably, they will be placed so that the first and second mat holding segments  136 ,  137  are oriented against intersecting members  28  so that the brace  120  is oriented diagonally across the pocket  30 . The connector device  84  will be even with or below the first and second mat holding segments  136 ,  137  and recessed relative to the top  46  of the mat  24 . 
     The cable  72  is then pulled through the cable connector device  84  to engage the anchor head  62 , which will move the anchor head  62  from the insertion position to a set position. Specifically, in the embodiment shown, this will rotate the anchor head  62  from a relatively vertical position in which the tail  66  is above the nose  64 , to a relatively horizontal position, in which the tail  66  and nose  64  are relatively even. 
     After the step of pulling the cable  72  through the cable connector device  84 , the cable  72  is preferably cut some distance above the cable connector device  84  to form a cut end  73  ( FIG. 11 ). The cut end  73  is then looped back in a direction toward the cable connector device  84  and then the cut end is inserted into the available bore  88 ,  89  of the connector device  84 . See  FIG. 11 . 
     C. Example Mat Connectors 
     1. Example Clip 
     In reference now to  FIGS. 12 and 13 , a clip  154  is shown for connecting together adjacent open grid mats  24 .  FIG. 13  shows a side view of clip  154  and a cross section of side edges  35 ,  36  of adjacent mats  24 . For purposes of illustration, the two mats  24  depicted in  FIG. 13  are referred to as first mat  156  and second mat  157 .  FIG. 12  shows a side view of the clip  154 . 
     In the example embodiment shown in  FIGS. 12 and 13 , the clip  154  has a first arm  159  and second arm  160  joined by a bridge section  162 . Together, the first arm  159 , second arm  160 , and bridge section  162  form a generally rectangular u-shape. In the embodiment shown, the first arm  159  and second arm  160  is angled relative to the bridge section  162  at about 90°, but can vary between 47° and 53°. 
     The first arm  159  has a first lance  164  projecting from the first arm  159 , and having a free end  165 . The free end  165  extends in a direction toward the second arm  160  and the bridge section  162 . In example embodiments, the first lance  164  is angled between 10° and 80°, for example about 20-50° relative to the first arm  159 . 
     Similarly, the second arm  160  has a second lance  167  projection from the second arm  160 . The second lance  167  has a free end  168 , that extends in a direction toward the first arm  159  and the bridge section  162 . The second lance  167  extends generally at the same angle relative to the second arm  160  as the first lance  164  extends relative to the first arm  159 . In general, each of the first lance  164  and second lance  167  is oriented a distance of greater than 50% of an overall length of each of the first and second arms  159 ,  160  from the bridge section  162 . That is, the first lance  164  is located adjacent to the free end  170  of the first arm  159 , and the second lance  167  is located adjacent to the free end  171  of the second arm  160 . 
     The first and second arms  159 ,  160  fit around the overlapping side edges  35 ,  36  of the first and second mats  156 ,  157 . In preferred embodiments, the clip  154  is sized so that there is a form of an interference fit, and the clip  154  is a spring clip  154 , that snaps around to tightly hold and squeeze the first and second mats  156 ,  157 . 
     In  FIG. 13 , it can be seen how the recessed area  40  of the first mat  156  receives the tab  38  of the second mat  157 . The first arm  159  and second arm  160  extend from the top upper surface  46  of the mats  156 ,  157  along the sides of the members  28  through the open pockets  30  so that the lances  164 ,  167  extend or project below the turf-engaging surface  48  of the mats  156 ,  157 . 
     In use, the mats  24  are arranged adjacent to each other, so that the side edges  35 ,  36  of adjacent mats  156 ,  157  are immediately next to each other, with the recessed areas  40  receiving the tabs  38 . This helps to create and even, smooth intersection or engagement point. The spring clip  154  is snapped around overlapping side edges  35 ,  36  to secure the mats  156 ,  157  together. The lances  164 ,  167  extend below the mats  156 ,  157  such that they dig into the turf  21  and further help secure the mats  156 ,  157  to the turf  21 . In preferred embodiments, when two adjacent mats  24  are connected along their side edges  35 ,  36 , there are at least two spring clips  154 , spaced apart from each other, around the overlapping side edges  35 ,  36  of the adjacent mats  156 ,  157 . 
     A variety of embodiments are contemplated. One useful embodiment includes making the clip  154  from  22  gauge spring steel, heat treated to 60-70 HR30N. The clip  154  will have a width between the arms  159 ,  160  of about 1-1.1 inches. Each arm  159 ,  160  will have an overall length from the bridge section  162  to its free end  170 ,  171  of about 0.8-0.9 inch. The free ends  165 ,  168  of each of the lances  164 ,  167  extend a distance of about 0.3-0.4 inch. The width of each of the arms  159 ,  160  can be about 0.7-0.8 inch. Each of the lances  164 ,  167  is approximately centered between the width of each of the arms  159 ,  160  and will have a length of about 0.2-0.3 inch. 
     2. Example Rivet 
     Attention is directed to  FIGS. 14 and 15 , in which an example embodiment of a connection system for the end edges  32 ,  33  of adjacent mats  24  are illustrated. In  FIGS. 14 and 15 , the mats  24  will represent adjacent first and second mats, referred to as first mat  174  and second mat  175 . It should be understood, however, that the first mat  174  and second mat  175  are mats both constructed in accordance with the description of mat  24 , and as shown in  FIG. 2 . The end edge  32  is shown as being on the first mat  174 , while the end edge  33  is shown on the second mat  175 . As described above, the end edge  32  has shelf  42  that receives the overlap extension  44  of the end edge  33 . 
     When adjoining adjacent mats  24 , such as first and second mats  174 ,  175  along the end edges  32 ,  33 , the mats  174 ,  175  are arranged so that there is a smooth meeting or joint or intersection point along the end edges  32 ,  33 . This is done by placing the overlap extension  44  into the shelf  42 . At least one rivet  178  is used through apertures  180  in the end edges  32 ,  33  to secure the first and second mats  174 ,  175  together. Apertures  180  can be seen in  FIG. 2  and  FIG. 14 . These apertures  180  are aligned, when the end edges  32 ,  33  are arranged adjacent to each other. The rivet  178  is then inserted, to connect the first and second mats  174 ,  175  together and form a smooth joint. In  FIG. 2 , it can be seen how there are more apertures  180  in end edge  32  than in end edge  33 . This helps to allow the mats  174 ,  175  to be aligned along their end edges  32 ,  33  without requiring a perfect matchup, so long as an aperture  180  in end edge  32  is coaxially aligned with an aperture end edge  33 . 
       FIG. 14  shows the mats  174 ,  175  before being connected together along end edges  32 ,  33 , along a midpoint of the mats  174 ,  175 . Rivet  178  is shown extending through aperture  180  in mat  174 , and being aligned with aperture  180  in mat  175 .  FIG. 15  shows the mats  174 ,  175  after being connected together at end edges  32 ,  33 , from a view along the side edge  36  of the mats  174 ,  175 . 
     In example embodiments, there are at least three rivets  178  through the overlapping end edges  32 ,  33  of each of the mats  24 . The rivets  178  can be made from a hard plastic or from metal. 
     Other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice as disclosed herein. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary only.