3D Printed Wave Mitigation Structure with Apertures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional wave mitigation structures constructed via precast techniques face issues such as joint sealing failures, shipping challenges, lack of flexibility, and repair difficulties, which compromise their effectiveness and durability.
Innovation Solution
The development of wave mitigation structures using additive manufacturing, specifically 3D printing, which eliminates the need for forms and allows for on-site construction, incorporating apertures and passageways to dissipate water pressure and integrate reinforcement structures for enhanced stability and flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If precast techniques are used to manufacture wave mitigation structures, then manufacturing efficiency and durability are improved, but joint sealing failures and flexibility are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The wave mitigation structure is divided into multiple precast panels that can be manufactured separately and then assembled together at the installation site. Each panel is a complete, durable unit that can be produced efficiently in a controlled environment, while the overall structure achieves flexibility through the modular arrangement of these segments.
2Strength
If precast techniques are used to manufacture wave mitigation structures, then structural strength is improved, but shipping and installation complexity are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the large wave mitigation structure into smaller, standardized precast panels, each panel maintains sufficient structural strength for its designated position while being small enough for manageable shipping and installation. This segmentation reduces the complexity of handling and installing massive single-piece structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The precast panels are designed as universal, standardized units that can be used in multiple positions and configurations within the wave mitigation structure. This standardization simplifies shipping arrangements and installation procedures, as the same panel design can be repeatedly installed using similar methods.
3Manufacturing precision
If precast techniques are used to manufacture wave mitigation structures, then manufacturing precision is improved, but repair difficulty is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
Segmenting the structure into discrete precast panels allows for precise manufacturing of each individual panel in a controlled environment, while also enabling localized repair of only the damaged panel rather than requiring repair of the entire structure. The modular design facilitates easy removal and replacement of problematic sections.
4Duration of action of stationary object
If precast techniques are used to manufacture wave mitigation structures, then durability is improved, but joint sealing reliability is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
While segmentation into precast panels enables durable individual units to be manufactured with high precision, it inherently creates joints between panels that are potential failure points for water infiltration and sealing issues.
5Adaptability or versatility
If 3D printing is used to manufacture wave mitigation structures, then flexibility and customization are improved, but manufacturing precision and durability are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the advantages of precast manufacturing (durability, precision) with 3D printing (customization, flexibility) by using 3D printing to create custom-shaped precast panels that maintain the structural integrity and dimensional accuracy of traditional precast methods while achieving the design flexibility and site-specific adaptability of additive manufacturing.
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
This approach enables the creation of robust, flexible, and durable wave mitigation structures that can be precisely tailored to site-specific dimensions, reducing installation challenges and improving long-term performance by dissipating wave energy through integrated apertures and passageways.
Implementation Method 1
at least one of the plurality of apertures and/or at least one passageway is arranged to accept water flow, current, waves, etc., therein and dissipate the water pressure and/or force by redirecting the water through the at least one of the plurality of apertures and/or at least one passageway
Data Source
AI summary
A wave-force mitigation structure, comprising at least one cluster section having at least one longitudinal passageway, the longitudinal passageway having at least one center point, the at least one center point defined by one of: an imaginary circumference; and, an internal edge of the at least one longitudinal passageway, the cluster section having a longitudinal opening in fluid communication with at least one adjacent passageway, and at least one reinforcement structure embedded within the at least cluster section and arranged proximate the internal edge of the at least one longitudinal passageway, wherein the cluster section is formed by the process of 3D printing.