Indopod concrete armour block for resisting wave action

Abstract

The present invention discloses an indopod concrete armour block for resisting wave action. The armour block comprises at least one first hexagonal mass (102) and at least one second hexagonal mass (104), disposed on opposite ends of the armour block. The first hexagonal mass (102) and second hexagonal mass (104) are connected by a hexagonal stem (106), which maintains a fixed spatial relationship between masses. The at least one first hexagonal mass (102) and the at least one second hexagonal mass (104) are configured to engage with adjacent blocks by direct surface contact, restricting movement and distributing forces across interconnected armour blocks.

Description

INDOPOD CONCRETE ARMOUR BLOCK FOR RESISTING WAVE ACTION

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of Coastal and Harbour Engineering. Specifically, it relates to the wave dissipating block for dissipating waves and reinforcing coastal structures.

[0002] Wave hydrodynamics: When wind blows at high speeds over vast stretches of the ocean for the prolonged period, it transfers energy to the water body, resulting in the formation of waves. Waves have crests and troughs, with the wave height defined as the vertical distance between crest and trough, and the wavelength as the horizontal distance between two consecutive crests. The time taken for two successive crests to pass a point is known as the wave period. Below the wavy surface, water particles move in circular paths, with the diameter of the circle decreasing with depth. As waves travel from deep waters towards the coast, they undergo several transformations due to the differing seabed topography in shallow coastal waters. These transformations comprise refraction, where the wave crests align parallel to the shore; shoaling, where wave height initially decreases and then increases while the wavelength decreases, leading to wave steepening; and finally, breaking, where the wave dissipates its energy on the slope. The extent of these transformations depends on the slope of the shallow seabed.

[0003] Harbours and Coasts: Harbours are designed to create calm waters, shielding them from the effects of ocean waves. A primary structure in harbours, the breakwater, is built to resist incoming wave energy, maintaining tranquility within the harbour for safe handling of vessels and cargo. Breakwaters are commonly constructed in a rubble mound form, resembling a trapezoid, with layers of rocks increasing in size towards the outer surface. The side slope facing the sea, which faces the brunt of wave action, is protected by concrete armour blocks. These blocks are exposed to relentless wave impacts, with waves striking every few seconds and imparting significant dynamic force. In such environments, stability is challenging, necessitating a design that dissipates wave energy effectively by dispersing it in multiple directions. Over the years, various shapes of armour blocks have been developed to enhance energy dissipation, with their efficiency assessed through model studies. The performance of an armour block is often evaluated by its Hudson's stability number or KD value, which indicates its stability under wave action.

[0004] Seawalls are coastal defense structures built at the boundary between land and sea, protecting the coastline from erosion. As waves approach the shore, they undergo transformations such as those described above, eventually breaking on the beach and expending their energy on the slope. Seawalls, similar in design to breakwaters, are constructed to withstand the force of breaking waves, safeguarding the land from erosion and damage.

[0005] Breakwaters face significant dynamic forces as waves crash against them at frequent intervals. Armour blocks placed on the side slopes must be stable enough to withstand continuous wave impacts. Therefore, wave energy needs to be dissipated, typically by pulverizing and dispersing it in different directions. This principle has guided the design of various armour block shapes over recent decades. The performance of these blocks, typically measured by the Hudson's stability number (KD value), has been rigorously tested under controlled conditions, such as in wave flumes. Some designs achieve high stability numbers, indicating superior performance in resisting wave energy. Additionally, effective interlocking characteristics are crucial for stability, ensuring that the blocks work collectively rather than as independent units.

[0006] One notable armour block design, the Dolos, was developed in South Africa but experienced structural failures, most notably in the Sines breakwater in Portugal. The Dolos blocks suffered from structural and hydraulic failures, leading to significant damage. This failure led to improvements in design, resulting in the Kolos block, which has been successfully implemented in projects like the breakwaters at Krishnapatnam harbour. The present invention, an Indopod armour block, represents a further modification of the Kolos design, aiming to enhance stability and energy dissipation.

[0007] Breakwater section: The design of a breakwater or seawall section involves various parameters, comprising side slopes, type and size of the main armour, crest elevation, and crest width. These parameters are determined based on factors like wave data, which can be obtained from wave atlases or wave rider buoy observations, providing essential information on deep-water wave characteristics. Wave analysis helps estimate the height and type of waves impacting the structure at different contours, indicating whether the wave will break on the structure or pass as a non-breaking wave. For effective energy dissipation, armour blocks need to be designed to withstand breaking waves, with their size often determined using Hudson's or Van der Meer's formulae. These formulas take into account wave, armour block, and sectional parameters to determine the optimal section and size of the main armour for specific site conditions. At the breakwater’s round head, where wave action is most intense, larger armour blocks are typically used to provide maximum resistance. Casting these armour blocks in place on the underwater slopes is not feasible due to constant wave impact, so they are usually cast at a nearby site and transported for placement.

[0008] Thus, in light of the above discussion, it is implied that there is need for an indopod concrete armour block for resisting wave action and method thereof, which is reliable and does not suffer from the problems discussed aboveObject of Invention

[0009] The main objective of the present invention is to provide an armour block structure to dissipate the wave energy and to reinforce coastal structures.

[0010] Another objective of the present invention is to provide armour block structure for better interlocking between the armour blocks to resist dislocation due to impinging waves.

[0011] Another object of the invention is to provide an armour block structure comprising at least one first hexagonal mass and at least one second hexagonal mass, disposed on opposite ends of the armour block and connected by a hexagonal stem to maintain a fixed spatial relationship.

[0012] Another object of the invention is to provide an armour block structure with surface features or projections on the hexagonal masses, configured to enhance interlocking with adjacent blocks.

[0013] Another object of the invention is to ensure structural stability of the armour block through an interlocking mechanism that resists dislocation under wave action.

[0014] Another object of the invention is to provide an armour block that is scalable in size and adaptable for various coastal applications, comprising high-energy wave environments.

[0015] Another object of the invention is to enable the alignment and rotation of the hexagonal masses during wave action, to improve dissipation of wave energy and structural performance

[0016] This invention is illustrated in the accompanying drawings, throughout which, like reference letters indicate corresponding parts in the various figures

[0017] The embodiments herein will be better understood from the following description with reference to the drawings, in whichFig. 1

[0018] depicts / illustrates a three-dimensional views of a 4 cubic meter Indopod armour block, in accordance with an embodiment;Fig. 2

[0019] depicts / illustrates a three-dimensional views of a 6 cubic meter Indopod armour block, in accordance with an embodiment;Fig. 3

[0020] depicts / illustrates a three-dimensional views of a 7 cubic meter Indopod armour block, in accordance with an embodiment; andFig. 4

[0021] illustrates a method for manufacturing an armour block for dissipating wave energy and reinforcing coastal structures, in accordance with an embodiment.Statement of Invention

[0022] The present invention discloses an indopod concrete armour block for resisting wave action. The armour block comprises at least one first hexagonal mass and at least one second hexagonal mass, disposed on opposite ends of the block. A hexagonal stem connects the first hexagonal mass and the second hexagonal mass, maintaining a fixed spatial relationship between them. The first hexagonal mass and the second hexagonal mass are configured to engage with adjacent blocks through direct surface contact, thereby restricting movement and distributing forces across interconnected blocks. The hexagonal stem aligns the hexagonal masses and may enable rotational movement of the masses in case of wave action. The armour block may further comprise surface features or projections on the hexagonal masses to enhance interlocking with adjacent blocks, providing improved structural stability in applications such as breakwaters, seawalls, and erosion control systems.Detailed Description

[0023] The embodiments herein and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained more fully with reference to the non-limiting embodiments that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and / or detailed in the following description. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques are omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein. The examples used herein are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the embodiments herein may be practiced and to further enable those of skill in the art to practice the embodiments herein. Accordingly, the examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments herein.

[0024] The present invention discloses an armour block structure (Indopod) for resisting wave action. Indopod is a further modification of Kolos.

[0025] The armour block consists of two hexagonal masses (Fluke) connected together by a hexagonal stem (Shank). These hexagonal masses provided very good interlocking properties to the blocks. The Indopod is essentially a two-layer block. The block interlocks on placement. The orthogonal masses provide a three-dimensional characteristic to the block.

[0026] Multiple units of the armour block structure act as a breakwater for enhancing the dissipation of waves. They interlock nicely with each other to resist dislocation by impinging waves.

[0027] As seen from the figures (l to 3), the blocks have a three-dimensional characteristic. They interlock nicely with each other to resist dislocation by the impinging waves. This means that the blocks do not act individually.

[0028] depicts / illustrates an armour block 100 comprising at least one first hexagonal mass 102 positioned at a first end of the armour block, and at least one second hexagonal mass 104 positioned at second end of the armour block relative to the at least one first hexagonal mass 102. A hexagonal stem 106 connecting the at least one first hexagonal mass 102 and the at least one second hexagonal mass 104, wherein the hexagonal stem 106 maintains a fixed spatial relationship between the first hexagonal mass and the second hexagonal mass 104, are configured to engage with adjacent blocks by direct surface contact, restricting movement and distributing forces among interconnected armour blocks.

[0029] In an embodiment, the first hexagonal mass 102 comprises a geometrically shaped structure with six equal-length sides, designed to interact with adjacent armour blocks. The first hexagonal mass 102 comprises at least one of surface features or projections, which are configured to engage corresponding features on adjacent blocks. The surface features or projections enable enhanced engagement, restricting a relative movement between adjacent blocks and enabling force distribution across interlocked structure. The first hexagonal mass 102 may be constructed from plain cement concrete mass, providing the necessary strength to withstand the repeated forces exerted by waves. In some embodiments, the first hexagonal mass 102 may comprise alternative shapes, such as modified hexagonal or polygonal forms, provided they enable similar engagement with adjacent blocks.

[0030] In an embodiment, the second hexagonal mass 104, disposed on the opposite end of the armour block relative to the first hexagonal mass 102, comprises a structure identical or substantially similar to the first hexagonal mass 102. The second hexagonal mass 104 is also configured to engage with adjacent blocks via direct surface contact. The second hexagonal mass 104 functions in coordination with the first hexagonal mass 102 to restrict movement and distribute forces along the block structure. The second hexagonal mass 104 may similarly comprise surface features or projections, enabling it to interlock with adjacent blocks and further contribute to the dissipation of wave energy. Like the first hexagonal mass 102, the second hexagonal mass 104 is constructed from a durable material, such as cement concrete mass, to ensure longevity in coastal applications.

[0031] In an embodiment, the hexagonal stem 106 connects the first hexagonal mass 102 and the second hexagonal mass 104 and serves to maintain a fixed spatial relationship between the first hexagonal mass 102 and the second hexagonal mass 104. The hexagonal stem 106 is a structural element that aligns the first hexagonal mass 102 and the second hexagonal mass 104 in a predetermined spatial orientation. The spatial orientation refers to relative positioning of the first hexagonal mass 102 and the second hexagonal mass 104, which are aligned along length of the armour block such that they are positioned at opposite ends. The hexagonal stem 106 may be integrally formed with the first hexagonal mass 102 and the second hexagonal mass 104 or connected through secure fastening techniques, depending on manufacturing process. The hexagonal stem 106 is configured to enable the first hexagonal mass 102 and the second hexagonal mass 104 to rotate about the stem axis in case of wave action, providing flexibility and enhancing structural stability of the interconnected armour block. In some embodiments, the hexagonal stem 106 may comprise a tapered or non-uniform cross-section to further optimize engagement and alignment with adjacent blocks.

[0032] In an embodiment, the armour block comprising the first hexagonal mass 102, the second hexagonal mass 104, and the hexagonal stem 106, is dimensioned and arranged to ensure optimal engagement and force transmission across the contact surfaces of the block and adjacent blocks. In particular, the dimensions of the hexagonal masses are selected to enable efficient wave dissipation through interlocking with adjacent blocks. The armour block may comprise multiple layers of interlocking blocks to further enhance dissipation of wave energy, and the first hexagonal mass 102 and the second hexagonal mass 104 may be positioned at various angles to optimize their interlocking function.

[0033] In case of deployment, the armour block is placed within coastal structure, such as a breakwater, with the first hexagonal mass 102 and second hexagonal mass 104 engaging directly with adjacent blocks. The engagement of surface features or projections ensures that the blocks remain securely interlocked under wave action, restricting movement and distributing forces throughout the armour block system. The hexagonal stem 106 aligns the block in a predetermined direction during placement, ensuring consistency across the breakwater.

[0034] In an embodiment, the present invention may also comprise alternative configurations of the first hexagonal mass 102 and the second hexagonal mass 104, such as variations in surface geometry, stem length, or construction material, provided that these variations enable the same interlocking function and force distribution. Furthermore, the armour block may be adapted for various coastal environments, comprising breakwaters, seawalls, or other wave-dissipating structures, and may comprise at least one of reinforced concrete, composite materials, or other durable substances capable of withstanding marine environments, among others.

[0035] illustrates a three-dimensional view of a 6 cubic meter Indopod armour block. The armour block comprises at least one first hexagonal mass and at least one second hexagonal mass, both disposed on opposite ends of the block. These hexagonal masses are connected by a hexagonal stem, which maintains a fixed spatial relationship between the masses. The 6 cubic meter Indopod is dimensioned to provide substantial surface contact with adjacent blocks when deployed, thereby restricting movement and distributing forces across the block system. The larger size of the block depicted inis particularly suited for high-energy coastal environments, where enhanced wave dissipation is required. The surface features or projections on the hexagonal masses enable the block to interlock with adjacent units, ensuring stability within the armour block structure.

[0036] illustrates a three-dimensional view of a 7 cubic meter Indopod armour block. Similar to the block depicted in, the 7 cubic meter Indopod comprises a first hexagonal mass, a second hexagonal mass, and a connecting hexagonal stem. The increased size of the block depicted inenables for even greater engagement with adjacent blocks, enhancing the overall stability and force distribution in the armour block system. The larger dimensions of this block make it ideal for deployment in environments subject to extreme wave action, where its mass and interlocking design can more effectively resist dislocation. As with the other embodiments, the block is configured with surface features or projections on the hexagonal masses to enable direct engagement with adjacent blocks, providing robust structural support.

[0037] illustrates a method 400 for manufacturing an armour block for dissipating wave energy and reinforcing coastal structures. The method begins with forming at least one first hexagonal mass positioned at a first end of the armour block, as depicted at step 402. Subsequently, the method 400 discloses forming a hexagonal stem that connects the at least one first hexagonal mass and the at least one second hexagonal mass, wherein the hexagonal stem comprises a geometric configuration that stabilizes the orientation of the armour block and enables interlocking engagement with adjacent blocks, as depicted at step 404. Thereafter, the method 400 discloses forming at least one second hexagonal mass positioned at an opposite end of the armour block relative to the at least one first hexagonal mass, as depicted at step 406. Thereafter, the method 400 discloses configuring the at least one first hexagonal mass and the at least one second hexagonal mass with surface features or projections that are structured to engage with features on adjacent blocks, thereby restricting movement and distributing forces among interconnected armour blocks, as depicted at step 408.

[0038] The advantages of the current invention include:

[0039] Enhanced Wave Dissipation: The unique interlocking design of the Indopod armour block enables efficient dissipation of wave energy. The block’s hexagonal masses and interlocking surface features distribute the energy across multiple interconnected blocks, reducing the impact of waves on coastal structures.

[0040] Improved Stability: The armour block’s three-dimensional structure, comprising the first hexagonal mass, second hexagonal mass, and hexagonal stem, provides superior stability. The engagement between blocks restricts movement, reducing the likelihood of dislocation during wave action, even under high-energy conditions.

[0041] Superior Interlocking Mechanism: The surface features or projections on the hexagonal masses enable the blocks to interlock effectively. This interlocking prevents independent movement of individual blocks, forming a cohesive structure that can withstand dynamic forces from waves and other environmental conditions.

[0042] Customizable Block Sizes: The invention is available in various sizes, such as 6 cubic meters and 7 cubic meters, enabling for customization based on the specific energy levels of the coastal environment. This scalability makes the Indopod armour block adaptable for use in a wide range of marine settings, from moderate to extreme wave conditions.

[0043] Efficient Force Distribution: The dimensioning and arrangement of the block’s components enable efficient transmission of forces across the entire structure. This distribution of forces minimizes the stress on individual blocks, extending the lifespan of both the blocks and the coastal structures they reinforce.

[0044] Durability in Marine Environments: Constructed from materials such as cement concrete mass, the Indopod armour block offers excellent resistance to environmental degradation, ensuring long-term performance in marine environments. The robust construction enables the blocks to resist erosion, corrosion, and mechanical wear, even after prolonged exposure to sea conditions.

[0045] Rotational Flexibility: The hexagonal stem enables the hexagonal masses to rotate slightly in case of wave action, providing flexibility that enhances the block’s ability to absorb and dissipate energy. This flexibility contributes to the overall resilience of the block structure under repeated wave impacts.

[0046] Ease of Installation: The design of the Indopod armour block, comprising its alignment mechanism via the hexagonal stem, enables straightforward placement and alignment during installation. This reduces installation time and costs while ensuring that the blocks are securely placed within the structure.

[0047] Versatility in Application: The armour block system is versatile and can be used in various types of coastal infrastructure, such as breakwaters, seawalls, groynes, and other marine defense systems. Its adaptability to different settings ensures widespread applicability for reinforcing coastal structures against wave action.

[0048] Reduced Maintenance Requirements: The interlocking design and robust construction of the Indopod armour block reduce the need for frequent maintenance. The blocks remain stable and functional over long periods, reducing operational and maintenance costs for coastal protection projects.

[0049] Applications of the current invention include:

[0050] Breakwater Structures: The Indopod armour block is ideal for constructing breakwaters, which are essential for protecting coastal areas and harbors from strong wave action. The block’s ability to dissipate wave energy through interlocking mechanisms helps maintain tranquil waters behind the breakwater, making it safer for ships and preventing erosion of coastal infrastructure.

[0051] Seawalls: The invention can be used in seawall construction, where coastal land is protected from erosion and wave-induced damage. The Indopod armour blocks can be placed along the base of seawalls, distributing the force of breaking waves and preventing the collapse or degradation of the structure over time.

[0052] Groynes: The Indopod armour block system is highly effective in constructing groynes, which are structures extending from the shore to prevent longshore drift and protect beaches. The blocks provide stability against wave forces and help retain sediment, ensuring that beaches remain intact and resistant to erosion.

[0053] Artificial Reefs: The Indopod armour block can be applied in creating artificial reefs to protect shorelines by reducing the energy of incoming waves. Artificial reefs built using Indopod blocks can provide additional benefits, such as serving as habitats for marine life, while protecting coastal ecosystems from erosion.

[0054] Harbor and Port Facilities: The Indopod armour block can be employed to reinforce harbor and port facilities, where it can protect docking areas, piers, and shipping lanes from wave forces. By dissipating wave energy, the blocks help maintain calm conditions within the harbor, ensuring safe loading and unloading operations.

[0055] Riverbank and Inland Waterways Protection: The Indopod armour block is also suitable for riverbank and inland waterway protection, where high flow rates and turbulent currents can cause erosion. The blocks can be deployed along the banks to stabilize the soil and prevent land loss, ensuring that rivers and canals maintain their navigability.

[0056] Coastal Erosion Control: The invention is ideal for use in coastal erosion control projects, where it helps to prevent the retreat of coastlines by reducing the wave energy. The blocks can be placed in strategic locations to break the energy of waves before they reach the shore, protecting coastal habitats, infrastructure, and properties.

[0057] Offshore Wind Farms: The Indopod armour block can be used in offshore wind farm foundations to protect the bases of wind turbines from wave action and scouring. The blocks provide a stable foundation for the turbine structures and ensure that the sea floor around the turbine remains intact.

[0058] Marina Construction: The invention can be applied in marina construction, where the Indopod blocks help protect the area from wave action, enabling boats to be moored safely. The blocks help create calm waters in the marina, preventing damage to vessels and marina infrastructure.

[0059] Fisheries and Aquaculture: The Indopod armour block can be used in fisheries and aquaculture operations, where wave dissipation is necessary to protect fish pens or other enclosures in coastal waters. The blocks can be arranged to shield these facilities from wave impact, promoting safer and more stable environments for aquaculture.

[0060] The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and / or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modification within the scope of the embodiments as described here.

Claims

An armour block for dissipating wave energy and reinforcing coastal structures, comprising:at least one first hexagonal mass (102) positioned at a first end of the armour block;at least one second hexagonal mass (104) positioned at second end opposite to the first end of the armour block relative to the at least one first hexagonal mass (102);a hexagonal stem (106) connecting the at least one first hexagonal mass (102) and the at least one second hexagonal mass (104); andwherein the at least one first hexagonal mass (102) and the at least one second hexagonal mass (104) are configured to engage with adjacent blocks by direct surface contact, restricting movement and distributing forces among interconnected armour blocks.The armour block as claimed in claim 1, wherein the hexagonal stem (106) comprises a geometric configuration to maintain a fixed spatial relationship between the at least one first hexagonal mass (102) and the at least one second hexagonal mass (104).The armour block as claimed in claim 1, wherein the hexagonal stem (106) connects the at least one first hexagonal mass (102) and the at least one second hexagonal mass (104) in a fixed spatial orientation.The armour block as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one first hexagonal mass (102) and the at least one second hexagonal mass (104) are arranged to rotate about the hexagonal stem (106) during wave action.The armour block as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one first hexagonal mass (102) and the at least one second hexagonal mass (104) comprise at least one of surface features or projections configured to engage with features on adjacent blocks.The armour block as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one first hexagonal mass (102) and the at least one second hexagonal mass (104) are dimensioned and arranged such that applied forces are transmitted across the contact surfaces of the hexagonal masses (102, 104) to adjacent blocks.The armour block as claimed in claim 1, wherein the hexagonal stem (106) is configured to align the at least one first hexagonal mass (102) and the at least one second hexagonal mass (104) in a predetermined direction during placement.A method for manufacturing an armour block for dissipating wave energy and reinforcing coastal structures, comprising:forming at least one first hexagonal mass (102) positioned at a first end of the armour block;forming at least one second hexagonal mass (104) positioned at an second end of the armour block relative to the at least one first hexagonal mass (102);forming a hexagonal stem (106) that connects the at least one first hexagonal mass (102) and the at least one second hexagonal mass (104), wherein the hexagonal stem (106) comprises a geometric configuration that stabilizes the orientation of the armour block and enables interlocking engagement with adjacent blocks;configuring the at least one first hexagonal mass (102) and the at least one second hexagonal mass (104) with surface features or projections that are structured to engage with features on adjacent blocks, thereby restricting movement and distributing forces among interconnected armour blocks.The method as claimed in claim 7, comprising integrating surface features or projections onto the at least one first hexagonal mass (102) and the at least one second hexagonal mass (104), wherein the surface features are structured to enable direct surface contact with adjacent blocks.The method as claimed in claim 7, comprising forming the hexagonal stem (106) with a fixed spatial orientation relative to the at least one first hexagonal mass (102) and the at least one second hexagonal mass (104), thereby stabilizing the armour block during placement and operation.The method as claimed in claim 7, comprising dimensioning the at least one first hexagonal mass (102) and the at least one second hexagonal mass (104) such that applied forces are transmitted across their contact surfaces to adjacent blocks, enhancing the stability of the armour block structure.The method as claimed in claim 7, comprising aligning the hexagonal stem (106) to the at least one first hexagonal mass (102) and the at least one second hexagonal mass (104) in a predetermined direction during placement within coastal structure.The method as claimed in claim 7, comprising rotationally configuring the at least one first hexagonal mass (102) and the at least one second hexagonal mass (104) about the hexagonal stem (106), such that the masses can rotate about the stem in case of wave action, for providing flexibility and structural adaptability.The method as claimed in claim 7, comprising casting the armour block from cement concrete mass to ensure durability and structural integrity in marine environments, wherein the cement concrete mass enables the block to resist erosion, wave impact, and long-term degradation.

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