Autonomous Modular Breakwater System for Dynamic Shoreline Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing breakwater systems lack the ability to dynamically construct, deconstruct, and reconstruct as needed, especially in locations without permanent structures, and they cannot adapt to varying wave conditions or perform maintenance efficiently.
Innovation Solution
An autonomous modular breakwater system comprising multiple submersible structures that can autonomously navigate, link, and reconfigure to form breakwaters based on predicted weather events, allowing for dynamic construction, deconstruction, and maintenance, with a controller determining the optimal configuration and location for the structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If permanent breakwater structures are installed, then shoreline protection is provided, but the system lacks adaptability to varying wave conditions and cannot be dynamically reconfigured
Solution Approach 1:
The breakwater system is divided into multiple independent modular structures that can be individually controlled and positioned. Each module can autonomously navigate and link with others, allowing the system to be reconfigured into different shapes and sizes to adapt to varying wave conditions while maintaining reliable shoreline protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The breakwater system transitions from a static permanent structure to a dynamic reconfigurable system. The modular structures can autonomously move, assemble, and disassemble based on real-time wave conditions and environmental factors, enabling the system to adapt its configuration optimally for different scenarios while providing consistent protection.
2Adaptability or versatility
If modular structures are used for dynamic construction, then adaptability and maintenance capability are improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each modular structure is equipped with autonomous navigation and control systems that enable self-positioning and self-linking. The modules can independently navigate to their designated positions and automatically couple with adjacent modules, reducing the need for complex external control infrastructure and simplifying the overall system operation despite the modular complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular structures are designed as universal units that can perform multiple functions: they can navigate autonomously, link with other modules to form various breakwater configurations, provide shoreline protection, and facilitate maintenance operations. This multi-functionality reduces the need for specialized components for each function, thereby managing system complexity.
3Productivity
If autonomous submersible structures are deployed, then productivity and response time are improved, but control and coordination difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller receives real-time data from sensors on each autonomous submersible structure regarding their positions, status, and environmental conditions. This feedback enables the controller to dynamically adjust navigation instructions and coordination commands, ensuring efficient assembly and disassembly operations while managing the complexity of controlling multiple autonomous units through continuous monitoring and adjustment.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and computer-readable media that implement an autonomous modular breakwater system. An example system includes a plurality of autonomous submersible structures, each configured to mechanically link to any other of the plurality of autonomous submersible structures to form a breakwater. The system includes a controller configured to perform operations including: determining a location for construction of a breakwater; determining an initial location of each of the plurality of autonomous submersible structures; selecting, based at least in part on the initial location of each of the plurality of autonomous submersible structures, a subset of the plurality of autonomous submersible structures for constructing the breakwater; and transmitting, to each of the selected autonomous submersible structures, instructions to transit from the respective initial location to the location for construction of the breakwater and to mechanically couple to at least one other autonomous submersible structure to form the breakwater.