Smart Breakwall Diversion System Wave Energy Dissipation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional shoreline erosion control systems do not effectively utilize wave energy and are not resilient, leading to structural weaknesses and damage to surrounding properties, while also failing to coexist with natural habitats.

Innovation Solution

The Smart Breakwall Diversion System (SBDS) employs a unique void-opening and diverter system that redirects and absorbs wave energy, using a laser-cut void pattern and step diverter design to manage wave energy, integrated stone for structural support, and a pressure release cover plate for drainage, creating a harmonious environment for aquatic life.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If solid sheet pile or solid concrete break walls are used to absorb 100% of wave energy, then wave energy is fully absorbed, but structural integrity is weakened and surrounding properties are damaged

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewave energy absorptionVSAvoidstructural integrity

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of energyVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The breakwall incorporates a porous structure with voids and openings that allow wave energy to pass through and dissipate gradually, rather than being fully absorbed by a solid structure. This porous design reduces the force concentration on the wall while still achieving wave energy dissipation, preventing structural damage and protection of surrounding properties.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #31Porous materials

2Loss of energy

If steel cage fill with stones or rubble mound structures are used to absorb wave energy, then wave energy is absorbed initially, but the structure weakens over time as stones are moved by wave force

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewave energy absorptionVSAvoidstructural stability over time

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of energyVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The breakwall is designed as a segmented structure with modular components including concrete elements and stone placements. The void openings and structured voids create discrete zones that manage wave energy in segments, preventing the cumulative force from dislodging entire sections. This segmentation maintains structural stability while achieving wave energy absorption.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Object-affected harmful factors

If conventional sea wall systems work against wave energy, then erosion protection is provided, but wave energy is not utilized effectively and resilience is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveshoreline erosion protectionVSAvoidresilience and wave energy utilization

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The breakwall design converts the harmful wave energy into a beneficial force by allowing waves to flow through the porous structure and controlled voids. The wave energy that would otherwise damage the shoreline is redirected through the structure's void openings and structured voids, dissipating energy gradually while protecting the shoreline. This approach provides erosion protection while maintaining resilience and utilizing wave energy constructively.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

SBDS effectively reduces wave energy impact on surrounding residents, maintains structural integrity, and supports coexistence with natural habitats, requiring minimal maintenance and adapting to changing water levels.

Implementation Method 1

diverter system that redirects and absorbs the flow of wave energy

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectWave energy redirection:

Implementation Method 2

A step diverter design slows down wave energy and redirects it back towards the lake in a controlled manner

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectWave energy dissipation:

Implementation Method 3

A pressure release cover plate may also act as a drainage system

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPressure release:

Implementation Method 4

integrated stone may not only absorb the under-wave current, it provides essential structural base elements

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectWave energy absorption:

Data Source

PatentUS11072900B2Smart breakwall diversion system

Publication Date: 2021.07.27 KETTAVONG PEPSY M

AI summary

A system is provided for diverting water at a shoreline to prevent erosion. The smart breakwall diversion system provides a resilient design that uses incoming water-flow to reduce the impact of wave action on a shoreline. Features of the system include openings and diverters that absorb and redirect the flow of wave forces. A laser-cut pattern on a steel cover of the front of the system can be artist-designed and act as protection against floating debris, as well as prevent fish and other aquatic life from entering. A step diverter design reduces velocity of incoming water and redirects it back towards the body of water in a controlled manner. The smart breakwall diversion system decreases the impact of wave energy on immediate and surrounding waterfront property.