Modular Wave-Break with Dissipating Holes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for mitigating wave energy near shorelines are either costly, inflexible, or ineffective in conforming to the shoreline's contours, failing to adequately dissipate wave energy and protect against erosion.
Innovation Solution
A modular wave-break system featuring a tapered base and interconnected modules with dissipating holes and passage holes, allowing for custom deployment and effective energy dissipation, while allowing sea creatures to pass through.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If traditional seawalls are affixed to the land, then wave energy dissipation is achieved, but installation cost increases and ecological passage is blocked
Solution Approach 1:
The wave break structure is divided into multiple modular segments that can be independently manufactured and then assembled in various configurations. Each module contains dissipating holes and passage holes, allowing the system to achieve wave energy dissipation while reducing installation complexity and cost compared to monolithic seawalls.
Solution Approach 2:
The wave break modules incorporate dissipating holes through their walls, creating a porous structure that allows wave energy to be dissipated as water passes through. This porous design also includes passage holes that maintain ecological connectivity while achieving the energy dissipation function.
2Loss of energy
If breakwater modules are assembled in a straight line, then wave energy dissipation is achieved, but adaptability to shoreline contours is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The modular design enables the wave break structure to be configured in various patterns including straight lines, curves, and irregular shapes to match different shoreline contours. Each module is a standardized unit that can be arranged flexibly to adapt to the specific geometry of the coastline while maintaining consistent wave energy dissipation performance.
3Reliability
If modular wave-breaks are deployed in custom arrangements, then shoreline protection is improved, but structural stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple modular wave break units are connected to each other through interlocking mechanisms and anchoring systems, combining their individual structural strengths to create a stable collective structure. The modules work together as an integrated system, distributing loads and forces across the entire structure to maintain stability in custom configurations.
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
The modular system efficiently dissipates wave energy, protects shorelines from erosion, and can be custom arranged to fit varying shoreline configurations, reducing installation costs and maintaining ecological passage for marine life.
Implementation Method 1
dissipating holes integrally formed in the wall
Implementation Method 2
passage holes integrally formed in the wall
Data Source
AI summary
A modular wave-break includes a wall, a tapered base attached to the wall, and an anchor attached to the base. The wall includes a set of dissipating holes integrally formed in the wall and a set of passage holes integrally formed in the wall. A set of eyebolts are connected to the wall. Reinforcing structural rods are embedded in the wall, the tapered base, and the anchor to provide strength. Mounting holes in the tapered base enable the modular wave-break to be secured to a water bottom surface. Multiple modular wave-breaks may be interconnected to form a single wave-break.