Flood protection devices and method

Abstract

The invention concerns devices protecting a built object against flood and excessive tidewaters. A preferred embodiment of the device generally comprises a built object, including a body (20), capable of substantially vertical displacement, mounted upon displaceable footings (22), which rest upon a foundation (30) absence flood conditions. The device comprises internal chambers (100L), (100R) arranged inside foundation (30). Each internal chamber is connected through pipes and taps with an external chamber (45) collecting a non-hydraulic liquid, preferably floodwater. The device comprises directing members (26), guiding said displacement, preferably made as a system of telescopically jointed snug-fitting barrels secured to the foundation and indirectly to the footings. The device comprises a number of nonfloatable lifting member units (104L) and (104R), each disposed inside one internal chamber. The invention is characterized in that the unit contains suitable hydraulic liquid which in conjunction with other elements of the unit are capable to seal the body of non-hydraulic liquid, preferably floodwater, confined in the internal chamber, effectively transmitting the liquid pressure to body (20) in the direction of said displacement, elevating body (20), and protecting the built object or its parts from flood or tidewaters. Other embodiments and ramifications describe modifications of the built object, including outside walls separated from body (20) for substantial reducing its weight, combinations with additional floatable lifting members, using additional pump means increasing the lifting capacity, reducing the costs, controlling said displacement of body (20).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to devices protecting against floods and excessive tidewaters.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Struggling for survival in flood conditions from ancient times, people have undertaken numerous measures to protect themselves and their properties against floods. In flood-prone areas, they have built houses raised above the ground level to keep them off the floodwaters. This substantially complicates the constructions, makes them inconvenient to use. Different natural, industrial, and agricultural factors have lately caused enormous floods and excessive tidewaters with substantial material damages and life-threatening situations. This has produced many different measures of protection against such conditions.

Many of them were dedicated to separation of floodwaters from protected areas or buildings, controlling the flow of water through dikes. As mentioned in the prior art, many improvements in the field concern redesigning and renewing dyke systems. All those improvements require huge movements of earth, the sacrificing of large areas of land, and, accordingly, big scale investments. Wooden planks, sand bags, temporary sand fills are common means, used to separate floodwaters from protected constructions, have proven to be unsatisfactory. Additionally, there is a lot of improvements, which involve water separation barriers and similar property protection systems, for instance, protection of property inside buildings being filled with floodwater. Those devices are often of insufficient capacity to withstand the excessive water levels. Therefore, most of the known devices have contained means to prevent floodwaters from a physical contact with an object needed protection from such waters. The object itself remains intact.

Maintenance of those structures usually requires specially trained task force, storage, transportation, proper and timely installation that substantially increases the overall cost and decreases efficiency of the devices. Such structures can rapidly become structurally weakened to the point of failure. Also, most of such devices are time consuming for adjustment and preparation before flood conditions, inconvenient for operation and maintenance by a layperson, such as a usual owner of a home, especially, in an emergency situation.

The art also refers to an exclusively dry-land based modular housing unit having a solid foam float, attached to the underside of the housing unit (Winston, U.S. Pat. No. 5,347,949). This floatable house, made of wood, uses the buoyancy force of floodwater, which lifts the house above the flood water level. It however restricts the use of that construction mainly to wooden structures, and requires substantial space beneath of the house to place the foam float.

Another example is the use of pontoons for lifting of objects, such as houses, industrial and commercial buildings, etc., which is shown in Mays, U.S. Pat. No. 6,050,207. According to Mays, a sufficiently large pontoon, capable of supporting and lifting the object (or its proportional part, in case of several pontoons), is disposed in a special device termed liquilift of two types: sealed and nonsealed. The liquilift transmits the buoyancy force of a liquid exerted onto the pontoon to elevate the object. The sealed liquilift includes an outside casing for placing the liquid, and a pontoon containing a sealed cavity within. A pump means controls distribution of the liquid between the casing and the cavity. The other type, nonsealed liquilift, allows outside liquid to flow free in and out the casing or to be pumped by a pump means. The description of both types of the liquilift suggests that the liquilift will start lifting the object not immediately after a flood begins, but only when the level of the operating liquid in the outside casing reaches a certain point. At this point, the weight of the operating liquid body occupied by a part of the pontoon below the level is equal to the weight of the object plus the weight of the pontoon. Another issue should be addressed: the pontoon must be sufficiently strong that it does not collapse from the load. This requires additional measures to reinforce the pontoon that leads to an increase of the pontoon's weight, which, in turn, requires employing pontoons with greater volume to elevate the same object. AU these circumstances might substantially increase the cost of the liquilifts and foundation, as well as earth excavation works, especially for heavy objects.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One of the aims of this invention is to provide new and useful devices for protection of a preferably newly constructed modular home, building, transportation means, such as a trailer, and the like, herein collectively named a built object, located on a ground area normally not covered by waters, against flood conditions and excessive tide waters. In general, the devices include such built objects capable of substantially vertical displacement and lifting-returning components capable to elevate such built objects preferably during floods or excessive tidewaters and to return the built objects generally to their at-rest position, when floods or excessive tidewaters leave the ground area.

Another aim of this invention is to provide a device for protection of such built object from flood or excessive tide waters, using lifting-returning components, capable to cause the displacement of the built object, and primarily empowered by hydrostatic or buoyancy forces created substantially by the flood or tide waters.

Another aim of this invention is to operate the device substantially in an autonomous mode, without significant involvement of people, transportation, storage means, thereby reducing the overall maintenance cost and time needed to activate such built object for protection from flood conditions, increasing chances to save lives and material values.

Another aim of the invention is to provide the lifting of the built object immediately after a flood begins, without a delay, which can be of particular use when the flood starts suddenly, for example, when a conventional dyke system fails to keep the floodwater.

Another aim of the invention, accomplished in the fourth and fifth embodiments, is to provide a rigid construction of a lifting member unit capable to efficiently transmit the hydrostatic pressure of floodwater to the body of a heavy weighted built object to provide its elevation, and reasonably reduce earth excavation and drilling works, as well as the volume occupied by the lifting-returning components.

Other aims of the invention will become apparent from a consideration of the drawings, ensuing description, and claims as hereinafter related.

The description of the invention, discussed herein below, will show the following advantages of the devices:

the invention presents a novel family of devices, which in general can be operated by a person with very little training. An important advantage of these devices is that they need very simple actions from the maintainer, if at all, to set them ready for protecting such built object from the flood. The devices do not require large capital investments, can be implemented with new construction buildings, modular homes, special premises for animals, livestock, bees, and plants, storage means, etc., which are mostly located in frequent flood areas;

the present invention is distinguished over the prior art in particular by the capability of the devices to protect an individual home located in a flood-prone area versus protection the whole are. This allows the devices to be implemented for new construction homes, without huge investment in scaled projects related to substantial movement of earth;

since the main protection effect of the devices is substantially caused by flood water itself, the activation of the devices do not demand special installation immediately prior to a flood. The activation action is generally to open a liquid entrance for the second, third, and fourth embodiments. The first embodiment does not require even that, since it starts operation automatically when the flood water level matches the buoyancy level set by the designer of a particular construction;

operation of the first, second, third, and fourth embodiments does not generally require a special source of energy for lifting, the energy is mainly supplied by the flood itself,

a ramification of the second embodiment allows the designer to substantially reduce the hydrostatic or buoyancy forces required for elevation of the built object. This is achieved by lifting only a body and displaceable footings of the built object, which are separated from outside walls of the built object. Such outside walls can be made of materials capable to protect the body from mechanical damage, high and lower temperatures, winds, and other natural factors. The weight of the outside walls, however, will not affect the lifting capacity of the device. This principle can be used with the other embodiments of the invention as well;

ramifications of the fifth embodiment, discussed herein below, describe modified devices, which use for the lifting purpose a water source another than flood, or use a liquid another than water. Such a device is apparently capable to elevate the built object not only during a flood, but generally also before a flood, if necessary.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1-I is a partial orthogonal view from the bottom of the device in at-rest position, according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The G-G line represents the ground surface throughout the description.

FIG. 1-II is a partial sectional view (V1-V1) of the device in at-rest position, according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 1A-II is a partial sectional view (V1A-V1A) of the device, according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 1-III is a perspective view of block 13, according to a ramification of the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2-I is a partial orthogonal view from the bottom of the device in at-rest position, according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2-II is a partial sectional view (V2-V2) of the device in at-rest position, according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2A-II is a partial sectional view (V2A-V2A) of the device in the lifted position during its operation, according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2-III is a partial front sectional view of directing member 26 in at-rest position, according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2A-III is a partial front sectional view of directing member 26 device in the lifted position during its operation, according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2-IV is a partial orthogonal view from the bottom of the device in at-rest position, according to a ramification of the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2-V is a partial sectional view (V21-V21) of the device in at-rest position, according to a ramification of the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2A-V is a partial sectional view (V21A-V21A) of the device in the lifted position during its operation, according to a ramification of the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3-I is a partial orthogonal view from the bottom of the device in at-rest position, according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3-II is a partial sectional view (V3-V3) of the device in at-rest position, according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3A-II is a partial sectional view (V3A-V3A) of the device in the lifted position during its operation, according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4-I is a partial orthogonal view from the bottom of the device in at-rest position, according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4-II is a partial sectional view (V4-V4) of the device in at-rest position, according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4A-II is a partial sectional view (V4A-V4A) of the device in the lifted position during its operation, according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4-III is a partial sectional front view of lifting member 104L and internal chamber 100L in at-rest position, according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4-IV is a partial plan view of hull 108 from the bottom, according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4-V is a partial plan view of limiting members 122, according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4-VI is a partial schematic view of water taps 97L and 97R, and an conventional adjustment control system 97S, according to a ramification of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5-II is a partial sectional view (V5-V5) of the device in at-rest position, according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5-I is a partial sectional front view of lifting member 104M and internal chamber 100L in at-rest position, according to a ramification of the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5-IV is a partial sectional view (V6-V6) of the device in at-rest position, according to a ramification of the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

First Embodiment (FIG. 1-I, FIG. 1-II, FIG. 1A-II, FIG. 1-III)

• 13—block (ramification)
• 13H—hollow space (ramification)
• 16—directing extendable member
• 17—directing retuning member
• 18—anchor member
• 20—body
• 22—displaceable footings
• 22H—footing hollow
• 23—displaceable footings
• 40—lifting member

Second Embodiment (FIG. 2-I, FIG. 2-II, FIG. 2A-I, FIG. 2-III, FIG. 2A-III, FIG. 2-IV, FIG. 2-V, FIG. 2A-V)

• 20—body
• 21—outside walls (ramification)
• 22—displaceable footings
• 22H—footing hollow
• 25—space
• 26—directing members
• 26T1, 26T2, 26T3—directing barrels
• 26E—extendable connections
• 28—internal chamber
• 30—foundation
• 32—foundation hollow
• 32P—pipes
• 37—limiting shelf
• 38—pipe
• 39—sewage tap
• 40—lifting member
• 40C—conventional drive
• 41—liquid entrance
• 42—external pipe
• 43—sewage tap
• 45—external chamber
• 46—additional lifting members
• 48—flood water tap

Third Embodiment (FIG. 3-I, FIG. 3-II FIG. 3A-II)

• 20—body
• 22—displaceable footings
• 23—displaceable footings
• 26—directing members
• 30—foundation
• 32—foundation hollows
• 32P—pipes
• 40—lifting members
• 40C—conventional drives
• 41—liquid entrance
• 45—external chamber
• 51—conventional air compressors (ramification)
• 58L, 58R, 58L1, 58R1—internal chambers
• 65, 651—external pipes
• 68, 68M, 681, 681M—internal pipes
• 69—sewage taps
• 71—outlet hoses (ramification)
• 72—inlet hoses (ramification)
• 78, 781—taps

Fourth embodiment (FIG. 4-I, FIG. 4-II, FIG. 4A-II, FIG. 4-III, FIG. 4-IV, FIG. 4-V, FIG. 4-VI)

• 20—body
• 22—displaceable footings
• 23—displaceable footings
• 26—directing members
• 26C—conventional drive
• 30—foundation
• 32—foundation hollows
• 32P—pipes
• 41—liquid entrance
• 43—sewage tap
• 45—external chamber
• 48—flood water tap
• 69—sewage tap
• 79—sewage tap
• 80—plates
• 83—liquid collecting hub
• 96—common pipe
• 97L, 97R—internal taps (ramification)
• 97S—conventional control system (ramification)
• 98L, 98R—internal pipes
• 100L, 100R—internal chambers
• 102—bottom footings
• 104L, 104R—lifting member units
• 106—hull
• 108—vertical hollow channel
• 109—screw holes
• 110—shelf
• 114—horizontal grooves
• 116—bottom space
• 118—internal space
• 120—top space
• 122—limiting members
• 122D—lower edge
• 123—through vertical holes
• 124—upper cover
• 125—through vertical holes
• 126—bolts
• 130—protective covers

Fifth embodiment (FIG. 5-II, FIG. 5-III, FIG. 5-IV)

• 20—body
• 22—displaceable footings
• 23—displaceable footings
• 26—directing members
• 26C—conventional drive
• 30—foundation
• 32—foundation hollows
• 32P—pipes
• 41—liquid entrance
• 43—sewage tap
• 44—pipe
• 45—external chamber
• 47—conventional liquid pump
• 47CR—conventional reversible liquid pump (ramification)
• 48—tap
• 49—alternative source of liquid (ramification)
• 69—sewage tap
• 79—sewage tap
• 80—plates
• 83—liquid collecting hub
• 96—common pipe
• 98L, 98R—internal pipes
• 100L, 100R—internal chambers
• 102—bottom footings
• 104L, 104R—lifting member units
• 104M—modified lifting member (ramification)
• 106M—modified hull (ramification)
• 130—protective covers

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

While the invention may be susceptible to embodiment in different forms, there is shown in the drawings, and will be described in detail herein, five specific embodiments of the present invention, including their ramifications, with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered an exemplification of the principles of the invention, and is not intended to limit the invention to that as illustrated and described herein.

I. Description of First Embodiment

Referring to the drawing, on FIG. 1-I (orthogonal view from the bottom, at-rest position), FIG. 1-II (V1-V1 sectional view, at-rest position), there is shown a device for protection of a built object from flood and excessive tidewaters. In general, the device comprises a combination of the built object and lifting-returning components.

The built object includes a body (20) of the built object. The built object includes a number of displaceable footings (22). On FIG. 14 four such displaceable footings are shown, attached to the bottom of body 20. In its at-rest position, body 20 rests particularly upon the displaceable footings 22. In their at-rest positions, displaceable footings 22 rest upon the ground surface. Displaceable footings 22 each have inside a footing hollow (22H). The built object includes a number of displaceable footings (23). On FIG. 1-I four such displaceable footings 23, attached to the bottom of body 20 are shown. In its at-rest position, body 20 rests particularly on the displaceable footings 23.

The lifting-returning components of this embodiment include a number of directing extendable members (16), preferably suitable ropes, used to provide the return of body 20 directly to its at-rest position, substantially without horizontal displacement.

Each of directing extendable members 16 is generally attached by its upper end to a directing returning member (17), substantially a bobbin with a spiral spring, providing for orderly return, substantially orderly rewinding of the suitable ropes onto the bobbins. Directing returning members 17 are generally mounted inside footing hollows 22H.

The lifting-returning components include a plurality of anchor members (18), substantially suitable posts, properly secured in the ground. Each directing extendable member 16 by its lower end is generally attached to one of anchor members 18.

The lifting-returning components include a lifting member (40), preferably a pontoon, made of an appropriate material. Lifting member 40 is preferably attached to the bottom of body 20. Lifting member 40 generally fills the space between displaceable footings 22 and 23. Lifting member 40 is a floatable lifting means with an average specific weight less than the specific weight of water. The volume and weight of lifting member 40 are generally sufficient to provide buoyancy in a water environment of itself, body 20 and displaceable footings 22 and 23. Optionally, parts of lifting member 40 may be outstanding beyond the boundaries of body 20 to increase the combined buoyancy of the built object and lifting member 40.

II. Operation of First Embodiment

The operation of the first embodiment is reflected on FIG. 1A-II (V1A-V1A partial sectional view). Absence flood waters, displaceable footings 22 and 23, and lifting member 40 are situated in their lowest at rest position, resting on the ground. In its at-rest position, body 20 rests upon displaceable footings 22 and 23. Directing extendable members 16 are not extended, and orderly and compactly placed with directing returning members 17 inside footing hollows 22H. When a flood starts, at a predetermined level of floodwater on the ground, lifting member 40 begins to move upward, pushing the bottom of body 20 with displaceable footings 22 and 23 from their lowest at-rest position. This lifts the built object to a predetermined height, protecting the built object or its parts from the flood.

A maximum height shown on FIG. 1A-II as Δh, up to which body 20 can be lifted, may generally be determined as greater than the maximum expected level of flood waters in given location. This generally allows the designer to choose the required length of directing extendable members 16, when designing a particular construction.

When the flood ends, directing returning members 17 cause directing extendable members 16 to orderly return to their at-rest position, preventing horizontal displacement of body 20 relatively to its at-rest position. At a predetermined level of floodwaters, lifting member 40, displaceable footings 22 and 23, body 20 displace downward to their at-rest position, and the device is ready for a new cycle.

III. Ramifications of First Embodiment

As a ramification of the first embodiment, body 20 of the built object is provided by specially designed hollow walls, or walls filled with a light material, performing the function of additional lifting members. Such specially designed walls may include blocks (13), having a configuration shown on FIG. 1-III (a perspective view of block 13). Blocks 13 have hollow space 13H inside, which can also function as heat insulator. Such measures may lead to a reduction of the overall specific weight of said built object, thereby increasing its buoyancy. At a certain total hollow volume, or a combination of materials, which such specially designed walls made of, the weight of the built object may be reduced to an amount, enabling said built object to float with a minimum use, or even without the use, of lifting members. This principle can be implemented with other embodiments of the invention as well.

As a ramification of the first embodiment, shown on FIG. 1-II, lifting members 40 are made detachable and removable. They can be attached to body 20 before a flood. Therefore, the space, occupied by lifting members 40 at the time of flood or excessive tidewaters, may be used for other purposes during normal non-flood time.

As a ramification of the first embodiment, shown on FIG. 1-II, lifting members 40 are inflated immediately prior to flood or excessive tidewaters. Therefore, the space occupied by non-inflated lifting members 40 is less than the space occupied by inflated lifting members 40. The difference of the spaces may be used for other purposes during normal non-flood time.

IV. Description of Second Embodiment

Referring to the drawings, shown on FIG. 2-I (orthogonal view from the bottom, at-rest position), FIG. 2-II (V2-V2 sectional view, at-rest position), FIG. 2-III (partial sectional view), the second embodiment of the device for protection of the built object generally comprises a combination of the built object and lifting-retuning components.

The built object includes a body (20) of the built object. In its at-rest position, body 20 rests upon a number of displaceable footings (22). On FIG. 2-I four such displaceable footings are shown, attached to the bottom of body 20. In their at-rest positions, displaceable footings 22 rest upon the ground surface. Each of displaceable footings 22 has inside a footing hollow (22H). The built object includes a foundation (30), having preferably vertical walls, which substantially serve to support displaceable footings 22 in their at-rest position. The built object includes foundation hollows (32) of preferably cylindrical shape, made in foundation 30. Foundation hollows 32 are substantially coincided with footing hollows 22H.

The lifting-returning components of this embodiment include directing members (26), substantially contained inside foundation hollows 32. Each directing member 26 substantially comprises: a number of directing barrels (26T1, 26T2, 26T3), telescopically enclosed into each other, substantially made of a proper metal. Only three such barrels are shown on FIG. 2-II, and FIG. 2-III. Directing barrel 26T1 is the lower barrel made non-movable, mounted on the bottom of foundation hollow 32, and preferably has the most diameter, and the least height. Directing member 26 preferably has one or more intermediate directing barrels 26T2, depending on the requirements of a particular construction. Directing barrel 26T3 is the upper barrel and preferably has the least diameter and the most height. Directing barrels 26T2 and 26T3 are made movable. Directing barrels 26T1, 26T2, 26T3 have anti-snag means for preventing them from snagging, when they are fully expanded. Directing members 26 each has a number of extendable connections (26E), preferably suitable springs, attached by their lower ends substantially to the top of the upper barrel 26T3, and attached by their upper ends substantially to the ceiling of the corresponding footing hollow 22H. Only one extendable connection 26E is shown on FIG. 2-III. Extendable connections 26E are movable in conjunction with displaceable footings 22, and upper barrel 26T3. Therefore, the movable parts of directing element 26 substantially include extendable connections 26E, and directing barrels 26T3, and 26T2.

The lifting-returning components of this embodiment include an internal chamber (28) situated substantially below the built object and built in foundation 30. Internal chamber 28 has a pipe (38), providing for internal chamber 28 to receive a liquid, substantially flood water. Internal chamber 28 has a sewage tap (39) enabling internal chamber 28 to free off the liquid contained inside internal chamber (28). Sewage tap 39 is capable to be controlled through a conventional drive (40C). Internal chamber 28 has a limiting shelf (37) mounted on the inner walls of internal chamber 28, above the horizontal level of the location of pipe 38.

The lifting-returning components of this embodiment include a lifting member (40), preferably a pontoon, made of an appropriate material. Lifting member 40 is situated inside internal chamber 28 between its inner walls of internal chamber 28, and the inward walls of displaceable footings 22. Limiting shelf 37 supports lifting member 40 it its at-rest position. There is generally a space (25) between the top of lifting member 40 and the bottom of body 20 in at-rest position. The volume and weight of lifting member 40 are generally sufficient to provide buoyancy in a water environment of itself, body 20 and displaceable footings 22. The bottom of lifting member 40 is substantially associated with a conventional drive (40C) to control sewage tap 39 and shut it off, when movable parts of directing member 26 reach their maximum height. Drive.40C is generally capable to shut off tap 39, when lifting member 40 returns to its lowest position, and to open tap 39, when lifting member 40 starts moving downward. Drive 40C is generally capable to shut off tap 39, when the liquid starts to flow into internal chamber 28.

The lifting-returning components of this embodiment include a number of additional lifting members (46), preferably pontoons, attached to the bottom of body 20, generally situated between displaceable footings 22 above the upper surface of foundation 30. As an option, additional lifting members 46 may be covered by conventional decorative sheets (not shown herein), made of a proper material, covering the outward sides of additional lifting members 46 between displaceable footings 22 along the perimeter of body 20 from its bottom to the ground level.

The lifting-retuning components of this embodiment include liquid entrance (41), preferably made in the form of a metal cone, generally having a conventional tap and filter (not shown herein). Liquid entrance 41 allows for an external chamber (45) to receive the liquid, substantially flood water. External chamber 45 is preferably made in the form of a barrel closed from the lower end, and jointed to liquid entrance 41 from the upper end of external chamber (45). External chamber 45 is substantially jointed on its lower part to an external pipe (42), connecting external chamber 45 with a tap (48), controlling liquid flow into pipe 38 and internal chamber 28. Tap 48 is capable to shut off and open liquid flow from external chamber 45 into pipe 38. External chamber 45 generally has a sewage tap (43), used to free off external chamber 45 and foundation hollows 32 from floodwaters. Foundation hollows 32 each is connected to a pipe (32P). Pipes 32P are connected to external pipe 42, enabling foundation hollows 32 to free off floodwater through sewage tap 43. Generally sewage taps 39, 43, liquid entrance 41, and tap 48 are capable to be remotely controlled from a convenient location.

V. Operation of Second Embodiment

The operation of the second embodiment is reflected on FIG. 2A-I (V2A-V2A sectional view). Absence flood waters, liquid entrance 41 and tap 48, and sewage taps 39 and 43 are shut. Body 20 is situated in its lowest position at rest. Displaceable footings 22 are situated in their lowest at-rest positions, resting on foundation 30. The movable parts of directing members 26 are not expanded. Lifting member 40 is situated in its at-rest position, as follows: the top of lifting member 40 is positioned preferably above the ground level, the bottom of lifting member 40 rests upon limiting shelf 37. When a flood starts, flood waters flow through open entrance 41 into external chamber 45, and further through pipe 42, open tap 48 into pipe 38, internal chamber 28. While floodwaters are filling in internal chamber 28, sewage taps 39 and 43 are shut. At a predetermined level of water in internal chamber 28, lifting member 40 starts moving upward from its lowest at-rest position, and its upper part moves into space 25, until the top of lifting member 40 reaches the bottom of body 20. Lifting member 40 pushes body 20 upward, lifting the built object to a predetermined height, thereby protecting the built object or its upper parts from the flood.

When the flood is over, sewage taps 39 and 43 are open, flood waters pour off from foundation hollow 32 through pipes 32P and sewage tap 43. Internal chambers 28 are emptied through sewage tap 39. The floodwater pressure in internal chamber 28 reduces enough to allow lifting member 40, displaceable footings 22, and body 20 to displace down. The movable parts of directing members 26 return down to their at-rest position in foundation hollows 32, causing displaceable footings 22 are not horizontally displaced relatively to foundation 30, when being returned to their at-rest position. Lifting member 40 displaces downward, until it meets limiting shelf 37, bringing lifting member 40 to its at-rest position.

A maximum height shown on FIG. 2A-II as Δh, up to which body 20 can be lifted, may generally be set up by the designer greater than the maximum expected level of flood waters in given location. This parameter is substantially determined by the weight of the built object and lifting member 40 and the buoyancy forces exerted by the flood water onto lifting member 40, generally depending on the volume of lifting member 40.

VI. Ramifications of Second Embodiment

As a ramification of the second embodiment, a directing member substantially comprises a combination of a conventional screw-shaped pair mechanism (not shown herein) of suitable parameters. Such screw-shaped pair has female threads, preferably inside footing hollows 22H, and mail threads on the upper part of the side surface of a suitable rod, positioned preferably vertically, properly secured by its bottom end in foundation hollow 32 and foundation 30. Such directing member is capable to direct a preferably vertical displacement of displaceable footings substantially without their horizontal displacement relatively to foundation 30 upon their return to at-rest positions.

As a ramification of the second embodiment, another suitable conventional mechanical or another drive is used as a directing member. Such mechanical or drive is capable to direct a preferably vertical upward and downward displacement of displaceable footings, substantially without their horizontal displacement, relatively to foundation, upon their return to at-rest positions.

As a ramification of the second embodiment, a suitable net, not shown herein, made of a preferably appropriate metal, secured on the inner walls of internal chamber 28 at a level above pipe 38, is used to substitute limiting shelf 37, for support of lifting members in their at-rest positions.

As a ramification of the second embodiment, the device may include a number of external chambers, or an external chamber may surround the built object along its perimeter. Swimming pools, plants watering facilities, decoration pools, etc. may also be used as an external chamber during a flood. Besides artificially made external chambers, melioration channels, ponds, riverbeds, lakes, and other natural water reservoirs may be used as external chambers as well.

As a ramification of the second embodiment, the built object of the device, shown on FIG. 2-IV, 2-V, and 2A-V, additionally includes outside walls (21) mounted on foundation 30, surrounding body 20. This device operates in a similar fashion as described above in the Operation of Second Embodiment section. In this ramification, only body 20, as part of the built object, is protected from floods and excessive tidewaters. Outside wails 21, being another part of the built object, are permanently attached to foundation 30. This ramification allows the designer to substantially reduce the level of floodwater pressure required for lifting. This purpose is achieved by lifting only body 20 and displaceable footings 22 of the built object, which are separated from outside walls 21. Body 20 and displaceable footings 22 are made of materials, which allow lifting member 40 to elevate body 20 and displaceable footings 22 to protect them, or their parts from floods of excessive tidewaters. Outside walls 21 are made of appropriate materials capable to sustain floodwater and protect body 20 generally from mechanical damage, high and lower temperatures, winds, and other natural factors, absence flood and excessive tidewaters. The weight of outside walls 21, however, will not adversely affect the lifting capacity of lifting member 40. This principle can also be applied to other embodiments of the present invention.

VII. Description of Third Embodiment

Referring to the drawings, shown on FIG. 3-I (orthogonal view from the bottom, at-rest position), FIG.3-II (V3-V3 sectional view, at-rest position), the third embodiment of the device for protection of the built object generally comprises a combination of the built object and lifting-returning components.

The built object includes a body (20) of the built object; a number of displaceable footings (22), described in the second embodiment, a number of displaceable footings (23), made of an appropriate material, attached to the bottom of body 20. On FIG. 3-I five displaceable footings 23 are shown. Displaceable footings 23 are capable of preferably vertical displacement upwardly and downwardly. The built object includes a foundation (30), substantially serving for support of displaceable footings 22 and 23 in their at-rest position, foundation hollows (32), described in the second embodiment. This configuration of foundation 30 allows to'strengthen the supporting capacity of foundation 30.

The lifting-returning components include directing members (26), described in the second embodiment.

The lifting-returning components include a number of generally identical internal chambers (58L, 58R, 58L1, 58R1), situated below the built object, substantially built in foundation 30. Accordingly to FIG. 3-I, internal chambers 58L, 58R, 58L1, 58R1 are connected to internal pipes (68, 68M, 681, 681M), mounted inside foundation 30, enabling internal chambers 58L, 58R, 58L1, 58R1 to receive floodwaters. Internal pipes 68, 68M, 681, 681M are connected to flood taps (78, 781). By the other ends, taps 78, 781 are respectively connected to external pipes (65, 651). External pipes 65, 651, by their other ends are connected with external chamber 45. The lifting-retuning components include pipes (32P), connecting foundation hollows 32 with external pipes 65, 651; a number of sewage taps (69), situated on the bottoms of internal chambers 58L, 58R, 58L1, 58R1, enabling them to pour off flood waters. Sewage taps 69 are capable to be controlled by mechanical or other conventional drives (40C), generally capable to shut off tap 69, when flood waters start to flow into internal chambers 58L, 58R, 58L1, 58R1, and to open tap 69, when lifting members 40 start moving downward.

The lifting-returning components include a number of lifting members (40), performed in the form of pontoons. Lifting members 40 are properly attached to the bottom of body 20. The lower portions of lifting members 40 are placed inside internal chambers 58L, 58R, 58L1, 58R1. Lifting members 40 are capable to displace preferably upward and downward jointly with body 20. Drives 40C, associated with lifting members 40, are generally capable to shut off taps 69, when lifting members 40 return to their lowest position.

The lifting-returning components include-liquid entrance (41), described in the second embodiment. Liquid entrance 41 is connected to an external chamber (45) described in the second embodiment. External chamber 45 is connected to external pipes (65, 651), correspondingly connected by their second ends to water taps (78, 781). External chamber 45 has a sewage tap (43) to free off external chamber 45 and foundation hollows 32 through pipes 32P from flood waters.

Generally taps 78, 781, and sewage taps 43 and 69 are capable to be remotely controlled from a convenient location.

VIII. Operation of Third Embodiment

The operation of the third embodiment of the device is reflected on FIG. 3A-II (sectional view). Absence floodwaters, 78 and 781 are shut. Body 20 is situated in its lowest at-rest position. Displaceable footings 22 and 23 are situated in their lowest at-rest positions, resting on foundation 30. The movable parts of directing members 26 are expanded. Lifting members 40, attached to the bottom of body 20, are being in their lowest at-rest position.

When a flood begins, flood waters flow through open entrance 41, external chamber 45, pipes 65 and 651, taps 78 and 781, pipes 68, 68M, 681, 681M, into internal chambers 58L, 58R, 58L1, 58R1. When the flood water inside internal chambers 58L, 58R, 58L1, 58R1 reaches a predetermined level, it causes lifting members 40 to start moving upward from their lowest at-rest position. Movable parts of directing members 26 move upward, foundation footings 32 are filled in with flood waters. Lifting members 40 push the bottom of body 20 upward, thereby lifting said built object to a predetermined height, protecting said built object or its parts from flood waters.

When the flood is over, and sewage taps 43 and 69 are open, the flood water inside internal chambers 58L, 58L1, 58R, 58R1, and foundation footings 32 pours off, the water level decreases enough to cause lifting members 40, displaceable footings 23, 22 and body 20 to displace down. The movable parts of directing members 26 are displaced downward, and returned into foundation hollows 32, causing displaceable footings 22 to be returned substantially to their at-rest positions, and not horizontally displaced relatively to foundation 30. At this point body 20 returns to its at-rest position. Then taps 78 and 781 are shut, the flood waters inside external chamber 45 are poured off through sewage tap 43, and foundation hollows 32 are poured off through pipes 32P, external pipes 65, 651 and sewage tap 43. Internal chambers 58L, 58R, 58L1, 58R1 are emptied through sewage taps 69, and the device is ready to a new cycle.

A maximum height shown on FIG. 3A-II as Δh, up to which body 20 can be lifted, may generally be determined as greater than the maximum expected level of flood waters in given location. This generally defines the length of fully expanded barrels 26T1, 26T2, 26T3, and extendable connection 26E.

IX. Ramifications of Third Embodiment

As a ramification of the third embodiment, lifting members, made in the form of pontoons, have outlet hoses (71), shown of FIG. 3-2, capable to let the air body out from lifting member 40 into the atmosphere. Each lifting member can have one or more hoses 71 for reserve. Lifting members have inlet hoses (72), shown of FIG. 3-2. Each lifting member can have one or more hoses 72 for reserve. Inlet hoses 72 are used to fill lifting members with compressed air. Inlet hoses 72 are connected to conventional air compressors (51), shown of FIG. 3-2, preferably situated inside body 20 of the built object. Compressors 51 are used to inflate lifting members 40. One or several compressors 51 may be used with an appropriate pipes connection and a conventional control device (not shown herein). As an option, a conventional control system (not shown herein) is used to manipulate the incoming air flow from compressors 51 through inlet hoses 72 to lifting member 40, and to manipulate the out-coming air flow from lifting member 40 through outlet hoses 71 to the atmosphere. This ramification enables to level the top surfaces of lifting members 40 to set the bottom of body 20 horizontally before and during the lifting. This ramification also enables to deflate lifting members 40 during the lifting, decreasing their buoyancy. It stops lifting, if the flood water level exceeds the expanding capacity of telescopic barrels 26T1, 26T2, 26T3, and extendable connection 26E, thereby preventing structural damage to the device.

As a ramification of the third embodiment, a conventional basement room (not shown herein), surrounding internal chambers 58L, 58R, 58L1, 58R1, is provided to immediately access the internal chambers 28, sewage tap 69, and taps 78, 781. Such room may generally be used with other embodiments of the present invention.

X. Description of Fourth (Preferred) Embodiment

The fourth embodiment of the device is considered the preferred embodiment of this invention. Referring to the drawings, shown on FIG. 4-I (orthogonal view from the bottom, at-rest position), FIG. 4-II (V4-V4 sectional view, at-rest position), FIG. 4-III, FIG. 4-IV, FIG. 4-V (partial views), the fourth embodiment of the device for protection of the built object generally comprises a combination of the built object and lifting-returning components.

The built object includes a body (20) of the built object; a number of displaceable footings (22), described in the second embodiment, a number of solid plates (80), preferably of a square-like form, made preferably of a suitable metal, attached to the bottom of body 20, a number of displaceable footings (23), described in the third embodiment. Displaceable footings 22 and displaceable footings 23 are suitably allocated around plates 80.

The built object includes a foundation (30), and foundation hollows (32), in general described in the third embodiment.

The lifting-returning components include directing members (26), described in the second embodiment.

The lifting-returning components include a number of substantially identical internal chambers (100L), (100R), preferably made of a suitable metal, having preferably cylindrical shape, and situated below the built object. Internal chambers 100L and 100R are generally built in and rest upon foundation 30. Internal chambers 100L and 100R have a number of preferably identical bottom footings (102), substantially made of an appropriate metal, mounted on the upper surface of the bottom of internal chambers 100L, 100R.

The lifting-returning components include a number of internal pipes (98L), (98R), mounted inside foundation 30, providing for internal chambers 100L and 100R to receive flood waters. Internal pipes 98L and 98R connect internal chambers 100L, 100R with a common pipe (96).

The lifting-returning components include an internal sewage tap (69), connected to common pipe 96. Tap 69 enables internal chambers 100L and 100R to pour off the floodwaters contained inside.

The lifting-returning components include a number of water impervious flexible protective covers (130), made of a suitable material, which can be repeatedly bent and straightened out without fracturing. Covers 130 preferably have an accordion-like shape and are situated around internal chambers 100L and 100R. The upper edge of cover 130 is attached to plate 80 by a sealed tight connection. The lower edge of cover 130 is attached to foundation 30 by a sealed tight connection. Covers 130 are used to prevent the floodwater pressure to be exerted onto the upper surface of shell 110 described below.

The lifting-returning components include pipes (32P) connected to foundation hollows 32 by their upper ends, and by their lower end connected to a liquid collecting hub (83), which joins pipes 32P and a sewage tap (79). Tap 79 is used to empty foundation hollows 32, pipes 32P, and hub 83 from flood waters after a flood.

The lifting-returning components include a number of lifting member units (104L), (104R), substantially made of appropriate metals. Lifting member units 104L, 104R each is positioned inside of the corresponding internal chambers 100L or 100R. Lifting member units 104L and 104R each comprises a hull (106), preferably of a cylindrical shape. Hull 106 is made movable preferably vertically. The upper side of hull 106 has a number of cylindrical screw holes (109). Hull 106 has a vertical hollow channel (108), made along the central axe of hull 106. The underside of the bottom of hull 106 has a number of horizontal grooves (114). All horizontal grooves 114 preferably form a symmetrical star of three or more legs, centering in the center of the bottom of hull 106 and ending at the bottom's perimeter as shown on FIG. 4-IV.

Lifting member units 104L and 104R each comprises a shelf (110), substantially of an annular shape, situated perpendicularly to the vertical axe of hull 106. Shelf 110 is attached by its inner surface to the outer surface of hull 106 along its entire perimeter at a suitable vertical level, and is movable in conjunction with hull 106. The outer surface of shelf 110 is snug-fitting to the inner walls of the corresponding internal chamber 100L or 100R.

The bottom of hull 106 is attached to a piston (112), positioned inside each of internal chambers 100L and 100R, substantially made of an appropriate metal, situated perpendicularly to the vertical axe of hull 106. Piston 112 is snug-fitting to the inner walls of the corresponding internal chamber 100L or 100R, and is movable in conjunction with hull 106. Pistons 112 are used to transmit the floodwater pressure, inside internal chambers 100L and 100R, to plates 80 and to the bottom of body 20.

The outer walls of hull 106, the underside of shelf 110, the free upper surface of piston 112, and the corresponding part of inner walls of internal chamber 100L or 100R, and additionally the volume of vertical hollow channel 108 and horizontal grooves 114, together form an internal space (118) generally for placing a body of an appropriate hydraulic liquid. Hydraulic liquid is. poured in from the upper end of vertical hollow channel 108 until internal space 118 is filled up with hydraulic liquid.

Then hull 106 is covered with an upper cover (124) preferably of a cylindrical shape, snug-fitting to the top surface of hull 106. Each upper cover 124 substantially has a number of through vertical holes (125), shown on FIG. 4-II. Through vertical holes 125 are used to insert bolts (126) capable to fit through holes 125 into screw holes 109, allowing to sealingly close vertical channel 108.

Therefore, each of lifting member units 104L and 104R includes hull 106, upper cover 124, shelf 110, and piston 112, assembled together and made movable preferably vertically upward and downward inside the corresponding internal chambers 100L or 100R. The space between the underside of piston 112 and bottom footings 102 forms a bottom space (116) above the bottom of the corresponding internal chambers 100L or 100R. A top space (120) is formed by the upper surface of shelf 110, a portion of the inner walls of the corresponding internal chambers 100L or 100R, and the outer side surface of hull 106 up to the top of the corresponding internal chambers 100L or 100R. Hydraulic liquid is generally capable to separate and prevent penetration of a body of floodwater, contained in bottom space 116, into space 120.

A term “non-hydraulic liquid” herein is referred to any liquid, which does not have an inherent property of the hydraulic liquid not to mix with water. Therefore a body of non-hydraulic liquid is confined within space 16.

The lifting member unit 104L or 104R is a nonfloatable lifting means with an average specific weight greater than the specific weight of water, inherently providing an overall high rigidity of the lifting means.

Another inherent feature of the lifting member unit is reflected in that its lifting capacity depends on the area of the underside of piston 112, the height of hull 106, and the height of internal chamber 100L or 100R. The deeper internal chamber 100L and therefore the lower the starting position of piston 112, the greater the pressure of non-hydraulic liquid exerted onto the underside of piston 112 at the starting point of the upward displacement of the lifting member unit. Consequently, increasing the heights of internal chambers 100L and 100R and hulls 106 results in reduction of the diameters of pistons 112 and internal chambers 100L and 100R, and vice versa, and thus enables to configure the lifting member units 104L and 104R and internal chambers 100L and 100R according to a particular construction of the built object and varying the volume of earth excavation or drilling works for the specific construction site.

The lifting-returning components include a number of limiting members (122), preferably made of a suitable metal. Limiting members 122 are capable to be attached, preferably by bolts 126, to the upper edges of vertical walls of internal chambers 100L and 100R. The preferable shape of said limiting members 122 is shown on FIG. 4-III, FIG. 4-V. Limiting members 122 are capable to limit the upward movement of the movable parts of lifting member units 104L and 104R, including: hull 106, upper cover 124, shelf 110, and piston 112. Limiting members 122 have a number of through vertical holes (123). A lower edge (122D) of limiting members, shown on FIG. 4-III of the inner underside surface of limiting members 122, determines the maximum upward displacement of the movable parts of lifting member units 104L and 104R.

Lifting member units 104L and 104R each is associated-with a conventional drive (26C), controlling the floodwater flow into internal chambers 100L or 100R. Drive 26C is capable to control tap 48 to shut off the flood water flow, when movable parts of lifting member units 104L and 104R rise to their maximum height, thereby protecting lifting member units 104L and 104R from destruction.

The lifting-returning components include liquid entrance (41), described in the second embodiment. Liquid entrance 41 is connected to an external chamber (45), described in the second embodiment. External chamber 45 is connected by its lower part to a tap (48), generally described in the second embodiment. Tap 48 is used to open and shut off the floodwater flow, from external chamber 45 to common pipe 96. External chamber 45 in its lower part has a sewage tap (43), described in the second embodiment. Generally, tap 48, sewage taps 43, 69, and 79 are capable to be remotely controlled from a convenient location.

“Liquid evacuation means” comprise the above mentioned sewage taps 43, 69, 79, pipes 32P, and liquid collecting hub 83.

XI. Operation of Fourth Embodiment

The operation of the fourth embodiment in the section is exemplified for the non-hydraulic liquid being floodwater.

The operation of the fourth embodiment of the device is reflected on FIG. 4A-II (V4A-V4A sectional view). The orthogonal plan view remains identical to that depicted on FIG. 4-I in at-rest position of the device. Absence floodwaters, entrance 41, tap 48, sewage taps 43, 69, 79 are shut. Body 20 is situated in its lowest at-rest position. Displaceable footings 22 and 23 are situated in their lowest at-rest positions resting on foundation 30. The movable parts of directing members 26 are not expanded. Lifting member units 104L and 104R are in their at-rest position, that is, pistons 112 rest upon bottom footings 102, whereas upper covers 124 are situated below plates 80. Vertical channel 108, horizontal grooves 114, and internal space 118 are filled up with hydraulic liquid. Covers 130 are being in their lowest most folded position.

When a flood starts, floodwaters flow through open entrance 41 into external chamber 45, and further through open tap 48, common pipe 96, into internal pipe 98L and bottom space 116, internal pipe 98R and bottom space 116. Hydraulic liquid inside internal space 118 seals the floodwater body, inside bottom space 116, preventing it from penetration into top space 120. At a predetermined amount of floodwater pressure inside bottom space 116, exerted onto the underside of pistons 112, the movable parts of lifting member units 104L and 104R start moving upward from their lowest at-rest position. During the movement, covers 130 gradually unfold.

At a predetermined level of the flood water, in bottom space 116, the top surfaces of upper covers 124, moving upwardly, meet the bottoms of plates 80, and further push plates 80 upward, lifting body 20 to a predetermined height, thereby protecting said built object or its parts from flood waters.

When the flood is over, sewage taps 43, 69, and 79 are open, the flood water, pours off external chamber 45 through tap 43, from internal chambers 100L and 100R through taps 69, and the flood water from foundation hollows 32 pours off through pipes 32P, hub 83, sewage tap 79. The floodwater pressure in bottom space 116 reduces enough to allow lifting member units 104L and 104R, plate 80, and body 20 to displace down. The movable parts of directing members 26 return into foundation hollows 32, causing displaceable footings 22 and 23 to be returned to their at-rest position, and not horizontally displaced relatively to foundation 30. Pistons 112 meet bottom footings 102, and rest upon them. Covers 130 displace down to their lowest maximum folded at-rest position.

At this point body 20 returns to its at-rest position. When external chamber 45 and foundation hollows 32 become empty, entrance 41, tap 48, sewage taps 43, 69, and 79 are shut, and the device is ready to a new cycle.

A maximum height shown on FIG. 4A-II as Δh, up to which body 20 can be lifted, may generally be determined as greater than the maximum expected level of flood waters in given location. If the actual floodwater level rises above the determined maximum height, upper covers 124 meet limiting members 122, thereby preventing lifting member units 104L and 104R, plates 80, and body 20 from further upward movement. Drive 26C, associated with the movable parts of directing member 26, causes tap 48 to shut the floodwater flow into internal chambers 100L and 100R. This protects the device from structural damage.

XI. Ramifications of Fourth Embodiment

As a ramification of the fourth embodiment, the device contains internal taps (97L), (97R), shown on FIG. 4-VI (schematic view), capable to be remotely controlled from a convenient location. Water taps 97L and 97R are accordingly connected, by their upper ends, to internal water pipes 98L, 98R, and, by their lower ends, to common water pipe 96. Taps 97L and 97R are preferably used in conjunction with a conventional control system (97S), schematically shown on FIG. 4-VI, situated in a convenient location. Conventional control system 97S is used to adjust water pressure in bottom space 116 of internal chambers 100L and 100R to set the top surfaces of upper covers 124 for each of lifting member units 104L and 104R on equal levels, before or during the time of a flood or excessive tide waters, thereby keeping body 20 substantially horizontally. There are only two taps 97L and 97R shown on FIG. 4-VI. Similar to the third embodiment, having four internal chambers and four lifting members, more than two internal chambers 100L and 100R and lifting member units 104L and 104R might be used in the fourth embodiment.

XIII. Description of Fifth Embodiment

Referring to the drawings, shown on shown on FIG. 5-I (orthogonal view from the bottom, at-rest position), FIG. 5-I (V5-V5 sectional view, at-rest position), the fifth embodiment of the device for protection of the built object generally comprises a combination of the built object and lifting-returning components.

The built object includes a body (20) of the built object; a number of displaceable footings (22), displaceable footings (23), plates (80), a foundation (30), foundation hollows (32), described in the previous respective embodiments.

The lifting-returning components include directing members (26), described in the second embodiment;

The lifting-returning components include internal chambers (100L), (100R), internal pipes (98L, 98R), connecting internal chambers 100L, 100R with a common pipe (96), bottom footings (102), water impervious flexible protective covers (130), all described in the previous respective embodiments.

The lifting-retuning components include pipes (32P) connected to a liquid collecting hub (83), a sewage tap (79), described in the previous respective embodiments.

The lifting-returning components include lifting member units (104L), (104R), described in the fourth embodiment.

The lifting-returning components include liquid entrance (41), an external chamber (45), a tap (48), a sewage tap (43), described in the second embodiment.

The lifting-returning components include a conventional liquid pump (47), connected by its first end to common pipe 96, and by its second end to pipe 44, described herein below. Liquid pump 47 is used to increase the lifting capacity of lifting member units 104L and 104R.

The lifting-returning components include a mechanical or another conventional drive (26C), associated with movable parts of directing member 26, capable to control tap 48 and liquid pump 47.

The lifting-returning components include a pipe (44), connected by the first end to tap 48, and by the other end to liquid pump 47. Generally liquid pump 47, tap 48, and sewage taps 43, 69, and 79 are capable to be remotely controlled from a convenient location.

XIV. Operation of Fifth Embodiment

The operation of the fifth embodiment of the device is reflected on FIG. 5A-II (V5A-V5A sectional view), and FIG. 4-II (partial sectional view). The orthogonal plan view for the operation is not shown herein separately, but remains identical to that depicted on FIG. 5-I in at-rest position of the device. Absence of floodwaters, body 20 is situated in its lowest at-rest position. Displaceable footings 22 and 23, and the movable parts of directing members 26 are situated in their lowest at-rest positions resting on foundation 30. Sewage taps 43, 69, 79, tap 48, and entrance 41, are shut. The movable parts of lifting member units 104L and 104R are in their at-rest position, that is, pistons 112 rest upon bottom footings 102, upper covers 124, are situated below plates 80. Vertical channel 108, horizontal grooves 114, and bottom space 118 are filled up with hydraulic liquid. Covers 130 are being in their lowest, most folded position.

When a flood starts, entrance 41, tap 48 are opened, flood waters flow through entrance 41, external chamber 45, pipe 42, tap 48, pipe 44, to liquid pump 47. Liquid pump 47 is turned on, and pumps incoming flood water into pipes 96, 98L, 98R, bottom space 116 of internal chambers 100L and 100R. Hydraulic liquid, being inside internal space 118, seals the air body and water body inside bottom space 116, preventing them from penetration into top space 120. At a predetermined amount of air and water pressure inside bottom space 116, exerted onto the underside of piston 112, the movable parts of lifting member units 104L and 104R start moving upward from their lowest at-rest position. During the movement, covers 130 gradually unfold. At a predetermined level of water in bottom space 116, the top surfaces of upper covers 124, moving upwardly, meet the bottoms of plates 80, and further push plates 80 upward, lifting body 20 to a predetermined height, thereby protecting the built object or its parts from flood waters.

A maximum height shown on FIG. 5A-II as Δh, up to which body 20 can be lifted, may generally be determined as greater than the maximum expected level of flood waters in given location. If the actual flood water level rises above the determined maximum height, upper covers 124 meet limiting rings 122, thereby preventing lifting member units 104L and 104R, plates 80, and body 20 from further upward movement. Drive 26C, associated with the movable parts of lifting member units 104L and 104R, causes tap 48 and liquid pump 47 to shut off This stabilizes the pressure inside internal chambers 100L and 100R, protecting lifting member units 104L and 104R from destruction.

When the flood is over, liquid pump 47 is turned off, sewage taps 43, 69, 79 are opened, the flood water pours off external chamber 45 and internal chambers 100L and 100R respectively through taps 43 and 69. The floodwater pressure in bottom space 116 reduces enough to allow lifting member units 104L and 104R, plate 80, and body 20 to displace down. Flood waters leave foundation hollows 32 through pipes 32P, hub 83, and opened tap 79. The movable parts of directing member 26 return into foundation hollows 32, causing that displaceable footings 22 and 23 to be returned to their at-rest position, and not horizontally displaced relatively to foundation 30. Pistons 112 meet bottom footings 102, and then rest upon them. Covers 130 displace down to their lowest maximum folded at-rest position. At this point body 20 returns to its at-rest position. When external chamber 45, and foundation hollows 32 become empty, entrance 41, tap 48, sewage taps 43, 69, and 79 are shut, and the device is ready to a new cycle.

XV. Ramifications of Fifth Embodiment

As a ramification of the fifth embodiment, the device, illustrated on FIG. 5-IV, includes a conventional reversible liquid pump (47CR), which pumps water from an alternative source (49), another than flood or excessive tidewaters. In such a case, pipe 42, by its first end, is connected to tap 48, and pipe 42 is connected to source 49 by its second end. Accordingly, entrance 41, external chamber 45, sewage tap 43 are not used in this ramification. Pump 47CR is capable to reverse the liquid flow to return the liquid from internal chambers 100L, 100R to source 49, when body 20 returns to its at-rest position.

As a ramification of the fifth embodiment, the device, illustrated on FIG. 5-IV, includes a conventional reversible liquid pump (47CR), which is connected to an alternative source (49). In this ramification, source 49 uses for the lifting purpose a liquid another than water. Such liquid is capable to seal its body inside bottom space 116, shown on FIG. 5-III, preventing the liquid body from penetration into top space 120. A modified lifting member (104M), shown on FIG. 5-III, generally includes piston 112, attached to the bottom of a modified hull (106M), preferably made in the form of a solid barrel, movable substantially vertically. Modified lifting member 104M is capable to transfer the liquid pressure from the underside of piston 112 to plates 80, causing the displacement of body 20, thereby protecting the built object or its parts from flood waters. In all other aspects, this ramification operates similarly to the previous ramification of the fifth embodiment.

The above discussed ramifications of the fifth embodiment introduce modified devices, which use for the lifting purpose a water source another than flood, or use a liquid another than water. Such a device might be capable to elevate the built object not only during a flood, but also before a flood, if necessary.

While particular embodiments and ramifications of the invention have been shown and described in detail, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that changes and modifications of the present invention, in its various aspects, may be made without departing from the invention in its broader aspects, some of which changes and modifications being matters of routine engineering or design, and others being apparent only after study. As such, the scope of the invention should not be limited by the particular embodiments and ramifications described herein but should be defined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents. Accordingly, the aim in the appended claims is to cover all such changes and modifications as fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A device for protection of a built object, such as a modular home, building, transportation means, and the like, and people, animals, livestock, plants, and other items inside said built object, generally located on a ground area, normally not covered by waters, from floods or excessive tide waters, said device comprising

said built object normally being in an at-rest position generally on said ground area, said built object capable of generally vertical displacement upward and downward, and

lifting-returning means capable to elevate said built object from said at-rest position to a predetermined height before or during floods or excessive tide waters, and to return said built object generally to said at-rest position when floods or excessive tide waters leave said ground area, thereby protecting said built object or parts thereof from flood or excessive tide waters.

2. A device for protection of a built object, such as a modular home, building, transportation means, and the like, and people, animals, livestock, plants, and other items inside said built object, generally located on a ground area, normally not covered by waters, from floods or excessive tide waters, said device comprising

said built object normally being in an at-rest position generally on said ground area, said built object capable of generally vertical displacement upward and downward, and

lifting-retuning means, preferably empowered by hydrostatic or buoyancy forces, preferably created by flood or tide waters, said lifting-returning means being capable to cause said displacement of said built object generally upward from said at-rest position to a predetermined height, substantially during floods or excessive tide waters, and generally downward to said at-rest position, substantially when said floods or excessive tide waters leave said ground area, thereby protecting said built object or parts thereof from flood or excessive tide waters.

3. The device according to claim 2, wherein said built object generally comprising

a body,

a plurality of displaceable footings, preferably attached to the bottom of said body, at least two of said displaceable footings each having inside

a footing hollow, and

said lifting-returning means generally comprising

a plurality of lifting members, substantially suitable pontoons, preferably attached to the bottom of said body,

a plurality of directing extendable members, substantially suitable ropes, having an upper end and a lower end,

a plurality of directing returning members, capable to provide orderly return of said directing extendable members, substantially said directing returning members each being performed in the form of a bobbin with a spiral spring capable to provide orderly rewinding of said rope onto said bobbin, said directing returning members each being preferably mounted inside one of said footing hollows, said upper end of each said directing extendable member preferably attached to one of said directing returning members,

a plurality of anchor members, substantially suitable posts, secured in said ground area, said lower end of each said directing extendable members being attached to one of said anchor members.

4. The device according to claim 3, wherein

at least one of said plurality of lifting members being performed in the form of a bottom or walls of said body, said bottom or walls, containing hollows, thereby providing additional buoyancy forces during flood or excessive tide waters.

5. The device according to claim 3, wherein

at least one of said plurality of lifting members being performed in the form of a bottom or walls of said body, made of materials having specific weight less than the specific weight of water, thereby providing additional buoyancy forces during flood or excessive tide waters.

6. The device according to claim 3, wherein

said lifting members made detachable and removable, providing another usage of the space, occupying by said lifting members during flood or excessive tide waters, at the time of absence of flood or excessive tide waters.

7. The device according to claim 3, wherein

said lifting members made in the form of pontoons capable to be inflated before or during flood or excessive tide waters, and deflated after flood or excessive tide waters leave said ground area, providing another usage of the space, occupying by said lifting members during flood or excessive tide waters, at the time of absence of such flood or excessive tide waters.

8. The device according to claim 2, wherein

said built object generally comprising a combination of

a body, including a bottom,

a plurality of displaceable footings, substantially attached to said bottom of said body and generally supporting said body in said at-rest position, at least two of said displaceable footings each containing inside a footing hollow,

a foundation situated in said ground area, said foundation supporting said displaceable footings, when said displaceable footings supporting said body being situated in said at-rest position, said foundation containing inside a plurality of foundation hollows, generally situated under corresponding said footing hollows,

said lifting-returning means generally comprising

sewage means, partially connected by pipes to said foundation hollows to empty said foundation hollows after flood or excessive tide waters leave said ground area,

liquid entrance means, generally including an external chamber, substantially made in the form of a barrel jointed with a liquid entrance fixed in the upper part of said barrel, said liquid entrance generally capable to collect liquid from a suitable outside liquid source, preferably flood or excessive tide waters, a number of connecting pipes preferably connected to a lower part of said external chamber, said liquid entrance means, preferably including liquid control means to regulate a liquid flow from said external chamber into said connecting pipes, said external chamber preferably connected to said sewage means capable to empty particularly said external chamber from flood or excessive tide waters,

a number of lifting members, substantially suitable pontoons, preferably detached from said body, said lifting members capable to elevate said body and said displaceable footings, using preferably buoyancy forces exerted substantially onto the underside of said lifting member, said buoyancy forces being created by flood or excessive tide waters,

a number of internal chambers, each accommodating at least one of said lifting members, said internal chambers generally arranged inside said foundation and generally connected to said liquid entrance means, said internal chambers generally connected to said sewage means capable to empty particularly said internal chambers substantially from water,

a plurality of directing members, each substantially comprising at least two telescopically jointed and expandable barrels situated preferably vertically, wherein said telescopically extendable barrels generally comprising an upper barrel, a lower barrel, and, preferably, a suitable number of intermediate barrels arranged between said lower barrel and said upper barrel, wherein said telescopically extendable barrels arranged properly snug-fitting into each other, and having anti-snag means for preventing said telescopically expandable barrels from snagging in a position of their fill expansion relatively to each other, the bottom end of said lower barrel being attached to the bottom of corresponding said foundation hollow,

said directing members, each generally comprising an extendable connection, substantially a suitable spring, said extendable connection having an upper end and a lower end, said lower end of said extendable connection attached to the top of said upper tube, and said upper end of said extendable connection attached to the top of corresponding said footing hollow.

9. The device according to claim 2, wherein said built object generally comprising

a body,

a plurality of displaceable footings, preferably attached to the bottom of said body, and

outside walls, generally mounted on said ground area, surrounding said body, said outside walls, absence flood and excessive tide waters, being capable to protect said body from mechanical damage, winds, low or high temperature, and other factors, negatively affecting said body.

10. The device according to claim 8, wherein

said lifting members performed in the form of suitable pontoons, said lifting members furnished with incoming hoses, by their first ends connected to said lifting members, and out-coming hoses by their first ends connected to said lifting members and by their second ends connected to the atmosphere,

said lifting members capable to be inflated, substantially by compressors connected to the second ends of said incoming hoses, said lifting members capable to be deflated during flood or excessive tide waters,

said lifting members being preferably associated with a conventional adjustment control system used to manipulate incoming air flow from said compressors through said incoming hoses, and out-coming air flow from said lifting member through said out-coming hoses to the atmosphere, which allows to level the top surfaces of said lifting members being in a physical contact with said bottom of said body during the lifting, thereby to set said body horizontally,

said adjustment control system enables to deflate said lifting members, when necessary, to decrease the buoyancy of said lifting members to stop lifting if the flood water level exceeds the expanding capacity of said directing elements, thereby preventing structural damage to the device.

11. The device according to claim 2, wherein

said built object generally comprising a combination of

a body, including a bottom,

a plurality of displaceable footings, substantially attached to said bottom of said body and generally supporting said body in said at-rest position, at least two of said displaceable footings each containing inside a footing hollow,

a foundation situated in said ground area, said foundation supporting said displaceable footings, when said displaceable footings supporting said body being situated in said at-rest position, said foundation containing inside a plurality of foundation hollows, generally situated under corresponding said footing hollows,

said lifting-returning means generally comprising a combination of

sewage means, particularly connected by pipes to said foundation hollows to empty said foundation hollows after flood or excessive tide waters leave said ground area,

liquid entrance means, generally including an external chamber, substantially made in the form of a barrel jointed with a liquid entrance fixed in the upper part of said barrel, said liquid entrance generally capable to collect liquid from a suitable outside liquid source, preferably using flood or tide waters, a number of connecting pipes preferably connected to a lower part of said external chamber, said liquid entrance means preferably including liquid control means to regulate a liquid flow from said external chamber into said connecting pipes, said external chamber preferably connected to said sewage means,

a plurality of directing members, each substantially comprising at least two telescopically jointed and expandable barrels situated preferably vertically, wherein said telescopically expandable barrels generally comprising an upper barrel, a lower barrel, and, preferably, a suitable number of intermediate barrels, arranged between said lower barrel and said upper barrel, wherein said telescopically expandable barrels arranged properly snug-fitting into each other, and having anti-snag means for preventing said telescopically expandable barrels from snagging in a position of their fill expansion relatively to each other, the bottom end of said lower barrel being attached to the bottom of corresponding said foundation hollow,

said directing members, each substantially comprising an extendable connection, substantially a suitable spring, said extendable connection having an upper end and a lower end, said lower end of said extendable connection being generally attached to the top of said upper barrel, and said upper end of said extendable connection being generally attached to the top of corresponding said footing hollow,

a number of internal chambers, generally arranged inside said foundation and connected to said liquid entrance means, said internal chambers each having preferably vertical side walls, a preferably horizontal bottom and a number of bottom footings, mounted on the upper surface of said bottom of each said internal chamber,

a number of water impervious flexible protective covers, made of a suitable material, which can be repeatedly bent and straightened out without fracturing, said protective covers preferably having an accordion-like shape and being situated around said internal chambers, the upper edge of said protective cover having means to be attached to said bottom of said body by a sealed tight connection, the lower edge of said protective cover having means to be attached to said foundation by a sealed tight connection, preventing flood and excessive tide waters from entering from the above into said internal chambers,

a number of lifting members, each substantially mounted inside one of said internal chambers capable to accommodate one of said lifting members, said lifting members being capable to elevate said body and said displaceable footing, using preferably hydrostatic forces being preferably created by flood or excessive tide waters, said lifting members each generally comprising

a hull, preferably of a cylindrical shape, preferably made of suitable metal, having inside a hollow channel, made preferably along the vertical central axe of said hull, said hull having a number of grooves cut on the underside bottom surface of said hull, said hull arranged movable preferably vertically upward and downward,

a shelf, preferably of an annular shape, substantially made of an appropriate metal, preferably situated perpendicularly to the vertical axe of said hull, said shelf being attached by its inner surface to the outer surface of said hull along its entire perimeter at a suitable vertical level, the outer surface of said shelf being snug-fitting to said side walls of said internal chamber,

a piston, preferably of a cylindrical shape, positioned inside said internal chamber, substantially made of an appropriate metal, attached to the underside surface of the bottom of said hull, said piston being preferably situated perpendicularly to the vertical axe of said hull, said piston being snug-fitting to the inner surface of said side walls of said internal chamber, said piston being used to transmit pressure of said liquid, flowing from said suitable outside liquid source into said internal chamber, to said bottom of said body, causing said displacement of said built object,

an upper cover, preferably of a cylindrical shape, substantially made of an appropriate metal, said upper cover snug-fitting to the top surface of said hull, said upper cover having means for proper closing said hollow channel of said hull,

a volume limited by the outer side walls of said hull, the underside of said shelf, the free upper surface of said piston, a corresponding part of the inner surface of said walls of said internal chamber, said volume additionally including said hollow channel and said grooves, forming a space for placing preferably an appropriate hydraulic liquid capable to separate and prevent penetration of a body of said liquid from said suitable outside liquid source into the space above said shelf,

a number of limiting members, preferably made of a suitable metal, said limiting members having attachment means to be attached to the upper edges of said side walls of said internal chamber, said limiting members capable to limit the upward displacement of said shelf and said hull of said lifting member to a predetermined maximum height,

a conventional drive, associated with said lifting member and said liquid entrance means, said conventional drive being capable to control liquid flow into said internal chambers, and to shut liquid flow into said internal chambers, when said hull being risen to said predetermined maximum height, protecting said lifting member from destruction

12. The device according to claim 11, wherein

said lifting-returning means further including

a conventional liquid pump, having an entrance, generally connected to said liquid entrance means, and having an exit, generally connected to said internal chambers, said liquid pump being used to increase lifting capacity of said lifting members.

13. The device according to claim 11, wherein

said lifting-returning means further including

a conventional reversible liquid pump, having an entrance, generally connected to said liquid entrance means, and having an exit, generally connected to said internal chambers, said liquid pump being used to empower said lifting members.

14. A method of protection of a built object, such as a modular home, building, transportation means, and the like, and people, animals, livestock, plants, and other items inside said built object, located on a ground area, normally not covered by waters, from flood or excessive tide waters, said built object generally being in an at-rest position on said ground area, said method comprising the steps of

associating said built object, capable of generally vertical displacement upward and downward, with lifting-returning means, capable to elevate said built object and to return said built object generally to said at-rest position, said lifting-retuning means preferably empowered by hydrostatic or buoyancy forces, preferably created by flood or tide waters,

lifting said built object by the use of said lifting-retuning means before or during flood or excessive tide waters to a predetermined height, thereby protecting said built object or part thereof from flood or excessive tide waters, and

returning said built object preferably to said at-rest position by the use of said lifting-returning means after said flood or excessive tide waters leave said ground area.