Underwater Modular Structure Labyrinth for Wave Energy Dissipation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing underwater structures, such as dams, fail to effectively dissipate wave energy, leading to erosion and deposition of sediments, deterioration of coastal protection installations, and disturbances to the underwater environment.
Innovation Solution
An underwater modular structure comprising a labyrinth defined by the contours of multiple modules and connectors, which forces incoming water to pass through, dissipating wave energy through turbulence and friction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a conventional underwater structure such as a dam is used, then coastal protection is provided, but wave energy is not effectively dissipated leading to erosion and deposition of sediments
Solution Approach 1:
The underwater structure is divided into multiple separate modules arranged in a series configuration, creating a segmented barrier that forces waves to pass through multiple sections. This segmentation increases the path length and creates turbulence at each module interface, enhancing wave energy dissipation while maintaining coastal protection functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The structure extends in the horizontal dimension parallel to the coastline rather than vertically like a traditional dam. This dimensional change creates a labyrinthine path that forces waves to travel along the structure, increasing exposure to friction and turbulence, thereby dissipating wave energy more effectively while still providing coastal protection.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a dam structure is used to protect the coast, then coastal protection is achieved, but erosion and deposition of sediments occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented modular design creates multiple small barriers rather than one large dam, which reduces the concentrated force on sediments. The gaps between modules allow controlled water flow that prevents excessive erosion while still providing protective barrier function against storm surges and high waves.
Solution Approach 2:
The structure utilizes hydraulic principles by allowing water to flow through and along the modules rather than completely blocking it. This controlled hydraulic flow reduces sediment erosion by maintaining natural water movement patterns while still providing coastal protection during extreme events.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a traditional underwater structure is used, then wave barrier function is provided, but turbulence and friction are insufficient to dissipate wave energy
Solution Approach 1:
The structure extends horizontally along the coastline creating a three-dimensional labyrinthine path, forcing waves to travel parallel to the structure for extended distances. This dimensional approach maximizes the surface area contact between water and structure, enhancing friction-based energy dissipation while maintaining effective wave barrier functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple modular sections create repeated turbulence zones as waves pass through each module, increasing the cumulative effect of friction and turbulence. The segmented design ensures that wave energy is progressively dissipated across multiple interaction points rather than in a single location.
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 structure reduces wave impact on coastlines and structures, minimizing erosion and promoting a healthier underwater ecosystem by stimulating nutrient distribution and local marine life.
Implementation Method 1
dissipating wave energy through turbulence and friction
Implementation Method 2
dissipating wave energy through turbulence and friction
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 2B
AI summary
The invention relates to an underwater modular structure comprising a plurality of modules, at least one connector that interlocks the plurality of modules and a labyrinth defined by contours of at least the plurality of modules. Each module of the underwater modular structure comprises at least one connector insertion opening that is configured to receive a connector therethrough. Further, the at least one connector is an elongate member arranged through at least one connector insertion opening of each of the plurality of modules thereby interlocking the plurality of modules. The labyrinth of such underwater modular structure may at least in part be defined by outer and/or inner contours of the plurality of modules. The invention also relates to a module of or for an underwater modular structure according to the invention. Finally, the invention relates to a method of constructing an underwater modular structure, the method comprising the steps of sinking a plurality of modules to a seabed, each module comprising at least one connector insertion opening, and interlocking the plurality of modules with at least one connector that is an elongate member, by arranging the at least one connector through at least one connector insertion opening of each of the plurality of modules, to form a labyrinth defined by contours of at least the plurality of modules. Such method may further comprise the step of filling at least part of the underwater modular structure with a filler.