SUPER-ENHANCED, ADJUSTABLY BUOYANT FLOATING ISLAND
A floating island comprising one or more layers of nonwoven mesh material and optional buoyant nodules. The mesh material is optionally coated with a spray-on elastomer or inoculated with nutrients or microorganisms. The island can include buoyant growth medium, floats, buoyant blocks, a prefabricated seed blanket, a dunking feature, capillary tubes, wicking units and/or bell flotation units. A larger embodiment is comprised of nonwoven mesh material, buoyant nodules, supplemental flotation units, stepping pads and optional load distribution members. Other optional features include a stepping stone flotation assembly, a stepping stone/vertical buoyant member flotation assembly, and a floating log assembly. The buoyancy of the island can be adjusted with a rigid framework of horizontal members, vertical members that can be moved vertically within the island, and/or a framework of prefabricated flotation tubes and cross members. The present invention also covers a floating island with a boat docking location.
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This application claims the priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/574,121 filed on 24 May 2004.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a super-enhanced, adjustably buoyant floating island that can be deployed in ponds, lakes, rivers or any other body of water to monitor, regulate and improve water quality, enhance plant and animal life, and complement the natural surroundings.
2. Description of the Related Art
In bodies of water such as ponds and lakes, algae growth and the natural process of eutrophication can lead to an increase in land mass and corresponding decrease in water volume, the killing of fish and other organisms, and the diminishment of aesthetic appearance. Various floating mechanisms have been devised with the aim of purifying water, cultivating plants, dispensing fertilizer, or counteracting the effects of eutrophication. None of these inventions anticipates the combination of features provided by the present invention.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,799,440 (Ishikawa et al., 1998) discloses a floating island comprising: (i) a planter with holes in it to allow the roots of the plants to grow into the water and to supply water to the soil in the planter; and (ii) an oxygen-generating agent container attached to the bottom of the planter. The planter is made of a foamed resin with a reinforcing film of polyurethane elastomer on the surface. The invention also includes: (i) a layer of porous material on the inner surface of the bottom of the planter that has an aerobic microorganism immobilized in it; and (ii) a plant cultivation bag to hold the soil. In the preferred embodiment, the oxygen-generating agent is calcium peroxide, and the soil in the planter is covered with a net or fabric that is permeable to water and air and is not harmful to the plants. In addition to generating oxygen, calcium peroxide also eliminates phosphorus, thereby restricting algae growth.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,086,161 (Burton, 1978) sets forth an ecological system and method for counteracting the effects of eutrophication in bodies of water such as marshlands, inland ponds and lakes. The system uses clusters of bark fibers positioned in the upper, relatively oxygen-rich zones of such bodies of water. These bark clusters attract and hold excessive nutrient deposition in the form of colloidal wastes and aquatic algae and also provide a safe habitat for algae predators and feeders.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,086,755 (Tepper, 2000) provides a floating hydroponic biofiltration device for use in a body of water containing plant-eating fish. The invention includes a float, a mesh and a matting. The float contains an aperture devoid of soil in which a terrestrial plant is inserted. The mesh is at a substantial depth below the float and serves to enable passage of oxygenated water to the plant roots while excluding large plant-eating fish. The mesh also serves as a substrate surface for the growth of nitrogen-converting bacteria, which convert the ammonia of fish waste to nitrates useful to plants. The matting anchors the plant roots and partially excludes plant-eating fish from a portion of the plant roots. In the preferred embodiment, the mesh and matting are formed of plastic.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,766,474 (Smith et al., 1998) and U.S. Pat. No. 5,528,856 (Smith et al., 1996) set forth a biomass impoundment management system that uses sunlight to purify water. The main purpose of this invention is to control impurities in water impoundments, such as ammonia, nitrogen, phosphorous and heavy metals. It is well known that nitrogen and phosphorous are a primary food source for various undesirable algae species, and ammonia and heavy metals are toxic to humans, fish and other organisms. This invention aims to purify water by allowing rooted bottom dwelling plants to grow and remain healthy on the bottom of a water impoundment while allowing rootless floating plants to grow and remain healthy above them. The non-rooted, floating plants are contained in a large surface area provided by elongated channels, which are oriented in a North-South direction to take full advantage of the sun. The elongated channels are designed to take advantage of wave activity to increase productivity.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,337,516 (Hondulas, 1994) sets forth an apparatus for treating waste water that includes a waste water basin and a number of wetland plants in floating containers. The idea underlying this invention is that the root systems of the wetland plants will treat the waste water. The extent of growth of the root systems is controlled by an adjustable platform associated with each floating container, so that the aerobic and anaerobic zones within the waste water basin are controlled and can be adjusted or varied as required. Similarly, U.S. Pat. No. 5,106,504 (Murray, 1992) covers an artificial water impoundment system designed to remove biologically fixable pollutants from urban or industrial waste water using aquatic plants to absorb pollutants.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,536,988 (Hogen, 1985) relates to a floating containment barrier grid structure for the containment of floating aquatic plants in a body of water. This invention is designed to facilitate the commercial cultivation and harvesting of aquatic plants. The grid structure consists of elongated flexible sheets that are interconnected at spaced intervals along their longitudinal axes to form a plurality of barrier sections in a web-like arrangement. Through the use of an anchoring means, the barrier grid is tensioned so that certain portions of the structure are submerged beneath the surface of the water by a device that harvests the floating aquatic plants.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,037,360 (Farnsworth, 1977) and U.S. Pat. No. 3,927,491 (Farnsworth, 1975) disclose a raft apparatus for growing plants by means of water culture or hydroponics. The raft floats on a nutrient solution, and buoyancy of the rafts is increased during plant growth by placing a small raft on a larger raft or on auxiliary buoyancy means. U.S. Pat. No. 5,261,185 (Kolde et al., 1973) also involves an apparatus floating on a nutrient solution. In this invention, rafts are floated in a water culture tank filled with nutrient solution, plant containers are inserted in vertically oriented channels in the raft, and the plants are cultivated by gradually moving the raft from one end of the water culture tank to another.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,487,588 (Lewis, III et al., 1984) addresses a submersible raft for the cultivation of plant life such as endangered sea grasses. The raft is manufactured from standard polyvinyl chloride tubing and fittings.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,014,838 (Asher, 2000) discloses a simple floatable unit for decorative vegetation. U.S. Pat. No. 5,836,108 (Scheuer, 1998) describes a floating planter box comprising a polyhedral planar base member of a synthetic foam resin less dense than water and an optional anchoring means.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,312,601 (Patrick, 1994) and U.S. Pat. No. 5,143,020 (Patrick, 1992) involve a simple apparatus for dispensing fertilizer in a pond. The invention consists of a flotation structure surrounded by a porous material such as a net sack and an opening in the flotation structure through which fertilizer is dumped. The fertilizer is dissolved by water flowing through the net sack at the bottom of the flotation structure.
U.S. Patent Application Pub. No. US 2003/0208954 (Bulk) relates to a floating planter for plants and fish. The planter is made of closed cell plastic foam and includes recesses for above-water pot holders and a floating underside support for oxygenating underwater plants. The island has passageways downward through the island structure that open into the water and allow plant roots to reach the water. The island also has cavities that function as shelter for amphibious creatures such as frogs.
In addition to the patents and patent application discussed above, there are a number of patents and at least one published patent application that deal with growth medium for plants. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,207,733 (Perrin, 1993) involves the use of a low-density, rigid, unicellular (i.e., closed cell) expanded polyurethane foam that is perforated to facilitate the passage of emergent plant roots and to provide voids for water absorption and retention.
U.S. Pat. No. 2,639,549 (Wubben et al., 1953) describes a hydroponic growth medium that comprises a gravel bed that rests on a perforated bottom, which in turn rests on top of a ridged ground plate. A pump and gutters are used to circulate a nutrient solution throughout the gravel bed.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,224,292 (Anton, 1993) discloses a growth medium that consists of a layer of hollow nonwoven polyester fibers, wherein the lumens (or hollow insides) of the fibers contain a plant adjuvant (or something that assists plant growth), such as plant nutrients, fungicides, algaecides, weed killers and pesticides.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,615,539 (Obonai et al., 2003) provides a water-retaining support comprised of a hydrogel-forming polymer that is used as a plant growth medium. The object of the Obonai invention was to provide a hydrogel that would retain water without inhibiting plant root growth.
U.S. Patent Application Pub. No. US 2003/0051398 (Kosinski) involves a soil substitute that consists of fiberballs made of a biodegradable polymer fiber (for example, polyester) with a specific cut length and average dimension. The patent application includes a claim for a method of supporting plant growth by contacting plant material with the fiberball growth medium.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIONThe present invention covers several different embodiments of a floating island comprising one or more layers of nonwoven mesh material. The present invention can be deployed in ponds, lakes, rivers or any other body of water to improve water quality, enhance plant and animal life, and complement the natural surroundings. Larger embodiments of the present invention may help prevent the greenhouse effect through carbon sequestration, which involves the removal of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and the conversion of carbon to biomass. The larger embodiments of the present invention may also be used for farming or even habitation on or in bodies of water.
The nonwoven mesh material of the present invention can be coated with a spray-on elastomer, inoculated with nutrients, or inoculated with aerobic or anaerobic microorganisms. The floating island can also comprise buoyant nodules that are manufactured into the mesh material or integrated into the mesh material during assembly. The layers of mesh material can be joined together by an adhesive, and holes can be formed into the top layer or layers for plants or flotation materials. The island can include floats, buoyant blocks, a dunking feature, capillary tubes and/or wicking units. It can also include a top cover that is optionally biodegradable and that protects seeds that are either integrated into the top cover or placed underneath it.
In an alternate embodiment, the floating island includes bell flotation units comprising an air compressor, tubing, a solenoid valve, a control wire and one or more bells. The bells can be formed of thermoplastic, closed cell foamed metal, amorphous metal, cement or plastic.
The present invention also includes a larger embodiment that can bear the weight of one or more people. This larger embodiment is comprised of at least one layer of nonwoven mesh material, buoyant nodules, supplemental flotation units and stepping pads. This embodiment optionally includes one or more load distribution members or an adjustably buoyant framework comprising prefabricated flotation tubes and cross members. Other optional features include a stepping stone flotation assembly, a stepping stone/vertical buoyant member flotation assembly, and a floating log assembly. The buoyancy of the island can be adjusted with a rigid framework that comprises one or more horizontal members and, optionally, a water tube, an air control valve, and an air tube. The island can also include upper and lower vertical members that can be moved vertically within the island to further adjust its buoyancy.
The present invention also covers a floating island with a boat docking location that is shaped so that the docked boat is mostly surrounded by island material. Low abrasion padding can be placed around the inner perimeter of the boat docking location to provide extra protection for the boat hull.
Any of the embodiments of the present invention can be supplemented with additional island modules that are comprised of a single layer of nonwoven mesh material impregnated with buoyant material.
The present invention also includes a prefabricated seed blanket that can be used to seed the island. It also includes a bonded growth medium for use in connection with the floating island of the present invention and several methods of manufacturing a floating island with the bonded growth medium of the present invention.
The present invention encompasses a method of attaching various layers of nonwoven mesh material, a method of forming holes in the nonwoven mesh material, and a method of fabricating a floating island from scrap pieces of nonwoven mesh material. It also includes a method of constructing floating islands by creating multiple island cutouts from the nonwoven mesh material.
- 1 Top layer (nonwoven mesh embodiment)
- 2 Middle layer (nonwoven mesh embodiment)
- 3 Bottom layer (nonwoven mesh embodiment)
- 4 Nonwoven mesh material
- 5 Buoyant nodules (nonwoven mesh embodiment)
- 6 Cut holes
- 7 Potted plant units
- 8 Adhesive
- 9 Floats
- 10 Foam sealant
- 11 Buoyant blocks
- 12 Landscaping pin
- 13 Bent end section of landscaping pin
- 14 Steel spike
- 15 Head end of steel spike
- 16 Lower end of steel spike
- 17 Electric or compressed air drill
- 18 Mandrel
- 19 Scrap pieces of mesh material
- 20 Outer covering
- 21 Tightly packed nonwoven mesh
- 22 Loosely packed nonwoven mesh
- 23 Small fish or baitfish
- 24 Large predator fish
- 25 Buoyant spacers
- 26 Water pockets
- 27 Flexible line
- 28 Pulley
- 29 Anchor block
- 30 Island (dunking embodiment)
- 31 Capillary tubes
- 32 Absorbent top cover
- 33 Plants growing above waterline
- 34 Wicking units
- 35 Floating island (“bell” embodiment)
- 36 Compressor
- 37 Tubing
- 38 Solenoid valve
- 39 Control wire
- 40 Bell (flotation)
- 41 Internal space
- 42 Pond water level
- 43 Seed blanket
- 44 Lower seed-containment layer
- 45 Middle composite seed layer
- 46 Upper seed-containment layer
- 47 Aquatic plant seeds
- 48 Binder
- 49 Supplemental flotation unit
- 50 Stepping pad
- 51 Load distribution member
- 52 Artificial stepping stone
- 53 Artificial tree limb
- 54 Stepping stone flotation assembly
- 55 Lower stepping stone
- 56 Upper stepping stone
- 57 Connecting cable unit
- 58 Island body (generic)
- 59 Stepping stone/vertical buoyant member assembly
- 60 Vertical buoyant member
- 61 Floating tree limb assembly
- 62 Lower artificial tree limb
- 63 Upper artificial tree limb
- 64 Variable buoyancy, rigid framework
- 65 Horizontal members
- 66 Water tube
- 67 Air control valve
- 68 Air tube
- 69 Perforated pipe
- 70 Inflatable bag
- 71 Holes in perforated pipe
- 72 Lower vertical member
- 73 Upper vertical member
- 74 Watertight cap
- 75 Collar
- 76 Locking pin
- 77 Locking pin holes
- 78 Locking straps
- 79 Wheel
- 80 Skid
- 81 Prefabricated flotation tube
- 82 Prefabricated cross members
- 83 Protective pipe
- 84 Strap
- 85 Pipe positioning device
- 86 Attachment post
- 87 Flotation unit (single attachment point)
- 88 Barbed attachment spike
- 89 Float (single attachment point flotation unit embodiment)
- 90 Buoyant feature
- 91 Retaining pin
- 92 Dual-ring buoy
- 93 Snap-on connector
- 94 Fully penetrating receiver unit
- 95 Pipe (receiver unit)
- 96 Lower flange
- 97 Upper flange
- 98 Partially penetrating receiver unit
- 99 Protective floating structure
- 100 Shoreline
- 101 Waves
- 102 Identical mass-produced islands
- 103 Connectors (modular island)
- 104 Modular island structure
- 105 First island in multiple cutout design
- 106 Second island in multiple cutout design
- 107 Central opening within first island
- 108 Third island in multiple cutout design
- 109 Central opening within second island
- 110 Skeleton frame island
- 111 Skeleton frame
- 112 Floor
- 113 Divider
- 114 Buoyant intrusions (skeleton island)
- 115 Soil growth medium
- 116 Soil-based plants
- 117 Matrix-based plants
- 118 Natural organic material
- 119 Synthetic organic material
- 120 First growth compartment
- 121 Second growth compartment
- 122 Prefabricated planter unit
- 123 Shell (prefabricated planter unit)
- 124 Island comprising bonded growth medium
- 125 Bonded growth medium
- 126 Porous matrix (bonded growth medium embodiment)
- 127 Buoyant inclusions (bonded growth medium embodiment)
- 128 Capillary channels (bonded growth medium embodiment)
- 129 Peat fibers (or similar material)
- 130 Binder
- 131 Embedded seeds
- 132 Topcoat seeds
- 133 Nutrient particles
- 134 Buoyant pellets
- 135 Infiltration zone
- 136 Floating island with pumped water distribution system
- 137 Water distribution system
- 138 Water pump
- 139 Distribution pipes
- 140 Nonwoven mesh island body (pumped filtration embodiment)
- 141 Aquatic plants selected for nutrient uptake
- 142 Enclosure tray
- 143 Air bubbles
- 144 Perforations (tray)
- 145 Floating island (boat docking embodiment)
- 147 Low-abrasion padding
- 148 Anchor optimized for multiple wind directions
- 149 Barb (anchor)
- 150 Ring attachment point (anchor)
The present invention is superior to any existing floating island-type technology because it provides a super-enhanced habitat for plants, improves water quality, discourages algae populations, slows the process of eutrophication, provides a habitat for fish and small animals, and is designed to be aesthetically pleasing. It is distinguishable from any of the patents reviewed above because it is designed to enhance the existing natural plant and animal habitat. Installation of the present invention does not require the draining of water, construction of a submerged substructure, fitting or alteration of a pond liner, or disturbance of existing flora or fauna. By virtue of its design, the present invention results in only minimal water displacement, which allows the pond or other water body to retain its carrying capacity and does not adversely affect the health of the water body.
In a natural floating island, the roots of living plants are supported in a substrate composed mainly of other living roots, dead roots, and partially decomposed organic materials derived from dead plants and microbes. This natural substrate is mimicked by the island matrix of the present invention, whose rigid structure and porosity provide an ideal environment for the establishment of growing roots.
In a natural floating island, microbial gas production provides a contribution to island buoyancy. In the present invention, the matrix fibers (nonwoven mesh) provide a large surface area for naturally occurring and introduced microbes that convert pond nutrients into gasses that provide buoyancy.
In a natural floating island, the plants that have adapted successfully for island life generally provide their own buoyancy. For example, a fifty-foot tall larch tree can survive on a natural floating island because the buoyancy of the island in the vicinity of the tree is sufficient to support the weight of the tree; while a short distance away, the buoyancy of the island is only adequate to support the weight of two-foot tall leatherleaf plants. In each case, the plant roots and the biological community surrounding the roots provide adequate buoyancy to support the weight that is imposed by the above-water portion of the plant. Plants that cannot support their own weight are generally sparse on natural floating islands. In the present invention, plants with known self-generating buoyancy can be selected for use on islands where long-term, self-sustaining buoyancy is required.
In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the floating island is comprised of a nonwoven mesh material. This embodiment is shown in
In
With respect to the embodiments shown in
This method of producing an opening in the mesh is superior to cutting a hole because it requires much less effort, is faster, and produces a temporary hole that contracts around any installed adhesive, plant, or seed. This method is superior to melting a hole because it does not produce noxious fumes. An example of a suitable steel spike is ⅜-inch in diameter and 12 inches in length, available from McMaster-Carr (part number 97033A320). Larger diameter holes may be opened by substituting a custom manufactured mandrel 18 for the lower section 16. Such larger holes may be useful for installing rooted plants.
All of the embodiments depicted in
h=(2σ cos θ/γr)
where
h=capillary rise (length)
σ=surface tension (force per unit length)
θ=wetting angle
γ=specific weight of water
r=radius of tube
The capillary tubes 31 can be fabricated from any suitable material, for example, flexible PVC tubing, semi-rigid polyethylene tubing, or rigid acrylic tubing.
The wicking units 34 may be preferable to capillary tubes 31 for certain applications because they may enable a higher maximum water rise and may be less prone to bio-fouling. One equation that can be used to determine the theoretical maximum rise due to fabric wicking is provided in the AUTEX Research Journal (see reference list) as follows:
where
Hmax=equilibrium suction height
N=number of fibers in bundle
RV=radius of fiber
P=% liquid from surface of bundle
Q=% non-wetted fibers from surface of bundle
μ=filling
ρ=density of liquid
σLG=interfacial tension liquid-air
θ=contact angle
For the embodiments shown in
Referring to
In order to raise the island to a shallower draft, a signal is sent via the control wire 39, which causes the solenoid valve 38 to shut. Simultaneously, the compressor 36 is turned on, causing air to flow through the tubing 37 into the internal space 41. This air will raise the air pressure in the internal space 41, thereby forcing a portion of water out of the bottom of the bell 40 (in other words, displacing the water that is in the internal space 41). As the water within the internal space 41 is displaced by air, the buoyancy of the bell unit increases, thereby causing a net increase in buoyancy of the floating island, which causes the island 35 to rise partially out of the water. The water level can be set at any desired level between minimum and maximum by shutting off the compressor when the desired air volume in the internal space 41 is achieved.
The bells 40 may be fabricated from any suitable material that is impermeable to air, strong, lightweight and durable. Suitable materials include, but are not limited to, thermoplastics such as polyethylene, foamed thermoplastics such as styrene foam, and closed cell foamed metals such as FOAMINAL, which is produced by Fraunhofer USA. Another material that shows promise for use in this application is foamed amorphous metal, which is currently being tested by LiquidMetal Corporation and other companies.
The internal space 41 may optionally be filled with highly porous material that is permeable to both air and water. This highly porous material may be comprised of any suitable material, including, but not limited to, polyester mesh (such as POLY-FLO from Americo), open-cell foamed metal (such as DUOCEL foamed aluminum from ERG Materials and Aerospace), or open-cell foamed amorphous metal. One advantage of filling the internal space 41 with porous material is that it provides additional surface area for growing beneficial microorganisms. Another advantage is that it provides extra strength and rigidity to the bell unit.
The bell flotation units provide a method for adjusting the overall buoyancy of the floating island, thereby allowing a person to manually adjust the draft of the island. This method can be used with any floating island embodiment. One advantage of this feature is that it provides a periodic water supply to plants and seeds that are located above the normal waterline, by temporarily lowering the island to a near-submerged position and then returning it to a normal position. Another advantage is that it adds buoyancy to the floating island to compensate for the negative buoyancy created by growing plants.
The purpose of the lower containment layer 44 is to prevent the seeds from falling through the mesh body of the island. The lower containment layer 44 may be comprised of any suitable material that retains the seeds while allowing plant roots to pass through. Examples of suitable materials for the lower containment layer include fine nonwoven polyester mesh (such as polyester air filter material), coarse woven cloth (such as cheesecloth), and thermoplastic elastomer (“TPE”).
The purpose of the upper containment layer 46 is to prevent loss of seeds by air or water currents prior to the time they sprout and take root. The thickness and density of the upper containment layer 46 must not be so great as to prevent the sprouted plants from penetrating the upper containment layer 46 and being exposed to sunlight. Examples of suitable materials for the upper containment layer 46 include fine nonwoven polyester mesh (such as polyester air filter material), coarse woven cloth (such as cheesecloth), and TPE. In some cases, it may be beneficial to use a relatively thin, transparent material for the upper containment layer 46 and a thicker, denser material for the lower containment layer 44. In other cases, it may be preferable for both the upper and lower containment layers 44, 46 to be constructed of the same or similar materials.
In addition to the embodiments described above, the present invention encompasses a larger version of the floating island that is designed to support the weight of one or more persons. An advantage of this design is that plants growing on the floating island can be watered by walking around on the surface of the island, thereby temporarily causing a localized area of the island surface to be depressed to the water level.
In order to provide the required load distribution (and thereby prevent local sagging) of the island surface due to point loads (such as persons) supported by the island, the load distribution members must have sufficient stiffness. The stiffness of a pipe is a function of the pipe diameter, the pipe wall thickness, and the bending modulus of the pipe material. Depending on the size of the island and the design loads, useful pipe diameters may range from about one inch to about 18 inches; useful wall thickness may range from about 1/16 inch to about one inch; and useful bending modulus may range from about 5,000 pounds per square inch (psi) to 500,000 psi, as measured by ASTM Standard D747-02. These same principles would apply to hose or any other material from which the load distribution members are constructed.
The islands shown in
In the middle example, the stepping stone/vertical buoyant member flotation assembly 59 is comprised of an artificial stepping stone 52 and a vertically installed buoyant member 60. The buoyant member 60 may be comprised of air-filled or closed cell foam-filled plastic pipe or other similar material. The buoyant member 60 may be attached to the island body 58 by adhesive (not shown), cable ties (not shown) or other conventional means.
In the right example, the floating tree limb assembly 61 is comprised of a lower artificial tree limb 62, an upper artificial tree limb 63, and a connecting cable assembly 57. The lower tree limb 62 is normally submerged, thus providing buoyancy to the island structure. Additional buoyancy is provided to the structure when the upper tree limb 63 is also partially or fully submerged. It should be noted that the buoyant components (the stepping stones 52, 55, 56 and the tree limb 53, 62, 63) may be replaced with conventional buoyant building materials such as closed cell foam blocks or cylinders (not shown). The natural shapes of the stepping stones 52, 55, 56 and tree limbs 53, 62, 63, however, provide aesthetic appeal to the structure.
In an alternative embodiment, shown in
Referring again to
To increase the buoyancy of the structure, the locking pin 76 is removed and the vertical members 72, 73 are pushed downward, deeper into the water. The vertical members are then locked into the new position via the locking pin 76. If required, an additional vertical member (not shown) may be connected to the top of the upper vertical member 73, and the vertical members may be positioned even deeper into the water. Locking straps 78 are used to keep the framework 64 attached to the mesh matrix body of the island (not shown).
In addition to providing buoyancy to the floating island, the framework 64 provides a rigid, load-distributing understructure, which can help to support the weight of persons walking on the island. The design of the framework 64 allows the buoyancy to be evenly distributed across the surface of the island, thereby eliminating “high spots” and “low spots” that would otherwise be produced by unconnected buoyant nodules located within the island body. Launching the floating island structure from shore into the water after construction may be facilitated by adding optional wheels 79 and/or skids 80 to the horizontal members 65 of the framework. The wheels and/or skids are preferably buoyant. If the horizontal members are sufficiently rigid, they can serve as skids, thus facilitating the launch of the island into the water without damaging the matrix and eliminating the need to add separate skids.
In a preferred embodiment, the cross members 82 are manufactured in several standard lengths, such as five feet, ten feet and fifteen feet. The straps 84 may be comprised of any relatively stiff and corrosion-resistant material, such as galvanized steel channels, aluminum tubing or rigid plastic tubing. The pipe positioning devices 85 are attached in pairs to the straps 84 by conventional means, with a positioning device 85 on each side of a pipe 83. The island body attachment posts protrude through holes cut into the island body (not shown). Nuts and washers (not shown) are used to secure the island body to the attachment posts 86. The flotation tubes 81 can be manufactured in several standard lengths, such as five feet, ten feet and fifteen feet. They are comprised of materials as previously described in connection with
The framework depicted in
In
With respect to any of the above embodiments, additional thin and lightweight island modules may be attached around the perimeter of the main central floating island in order to provide additional shade and plant growth area, thereby increasing the water quality benefits of the island. These additional island modules can be made of a single layer of nonwoven mesh material or similar suitable material, impregnated with buoyant material. While the central floating island could support larger plants, these “satellite” module islands could support short plants such as grasses and sedges. In addition, any of the embodiments of the present invention could be combined with artificial vegetation, if desired, for additional cosmetic effect.
In yet another embodiment of the present invention, concentric multiple cutouts provide numerous islands with reduced constructions costs.
The multiple concentric cutout design shown in
The soil growth medium 115 is comprised of natural organic material 118, such as peat, and of synthetic organic material 119, such as pieces of nonwoven polyester scrap material. Bonded growth medium (not shown, described more fully below) may be infused into the skeleton frame 111, floor 112, and/or divider 113. The bonded growth medium provides a durable environment for seed germination and plant growth.
The relative growth rates of soil-based plants 116 and matrix-based plants 117 may be controlled by adjusting the nutrient concentrations and interstitial spacings of the soil growth medium 115 and skeleton frame 111. For example, by setting the nutrient level in the soil growth medium 115 higher than the nutrient level in the skeleton frame 111, the roots of the matrix-based plants 117 will grow faster, while the tops of the soil-based plants will grow faster. Similarly, plant growth rates may be manipulated by adjusting the percentage of interstitial space in the soil growth medium 115 and skeleton frame 111. For example, adding more synthetic organic material 119 to the natural organic material 118 will increase the volume of interstitial spaces within soil growth medium 115, thereby increasing the growth rate of microbes and macrophytes within the soil growth medium 115.
With the skeleton-frame embodiment described above, the growth rates of plant roots on different zones of the island can be manipulated to improve the value of the island for fish and wildlife habitat. In a preferred embodiment, the nutrient levels in the perimeter zone (the skeleton frame) are set at a relatively low level by using bonding agents without added nutrients around the perimeter, while the nutrient levels in the center soil growth medium area are set at a relatively high level by placing nutrient additives into the soil growth medium mixture. In this embodiment, the roots of plants in the perimeter zone will grow rapidly through the matrix into the pond water in search of nutrients, thereby forming an underwater perimeter “curtain” of roots. Conversely, the roots of plants in the central nutrient-rich soil growth medium zone will be able to obtain sufficient nutrients from a relatively small root mass; therefore, these roots will be slow to penetrate through the matrix into the water below. By this means, an underwater root zone will be formed under the island that has a relatively long, dense outer ring and a relatively short, slender-root center area. This embodiment will be attractive to small fish that seek refuge and food within the inner area because larger predator fish will be excluded by the outer ring.
The skeleton-frame island embodiment of the present invention is capable of supporting plant growth over its entire surface area, while conventional “floating planters” have a non-permeable flotation ring around their perimeter that is not capable of supporting plant growth. The ability of the skeleton frame island embodiment of the present invention to support plant growth over the entire surface offers significant advantages for water-quality applications, as well as providing a more natural, visually appealing appearance than conventional floating planters.
Nonwoven mesh scrap material from the cutting and shaping of the skeleton frame 111 and floor 112 may provide a low-cost source of synthetic organic material 119. Adding synthetic organic material 119 will also reduce the saturated weight of the soil growth medium 115, thereby reducing the volume of buoyant intrusions 114 required to float the skeleton frame island 110.
The prefabricated planter unit 122 is comprised of a shell 123, soil growth medium 115, optional plants 116 and optional seeds (not shown). The shell 123 is comprised of a material such as coir or nonwoven polyester matrix that is permeable to water and penetrable by plant roots.
The soil growth medium 115 may include pH buffers and modifiers to optimize plant growth for specific conditions. For example, when an island is deployed in acidic pond water with plants that prefer neutral or alkaline pH water, the soil growth medium can comprise calcium carbonate or other similar substance that increases the pH of the water surrounding the plant roots, thereby giving these roots an optimized growth environment during their early growth stage. Similarly, substances that reduce the pH of water can be added to the soil growth medium 115 when an island is deployed in alkaline waters with plants that prefer neutral or acidic pH. Peat is an example of a material that can provide an acidic pH environment.
The present invention also encompasses a bonded growth medium that is optimized for germinating and nurturing plants in an aquatic setting. The bonded growth medium of the present invention is designed specifically to be used as a component of a floating island, although it may be used in other applications as well. As described more fully below, the bonded growth medium encompasses a number of optional features to optimize it for various conditions and for use with a variety of plant species. The bonded growth medium is described below as used with islands comprising a continuous matrix top surface, but can be equally well employed with the skeleton frame island embodiment.
As shown schematically in
The first purpose of the peat fibers 129 is to retain water and absorb radiant sunlight energy, thus providing optimal conditions for plant germination and growth. The second purpose of the peat fibers 129 is to provide a natural, visually appealing surface. A third purpose of the peat fibers is to prevent sunlight from contacting the fibers within the matrix, thereby preventing the growth of algae within the matrix. A fourth purpose of the peat fibers is to reduce the pH of water adjacent to plant roots. The purpose of the binder 130 is to attach the peat fibers 129 and seeds 132, 133 to the matrix 126, and to prevent them from being lost due to wind or wave action. Nutrient particles 133 may be comprised of commercial slow-release plant fertilizer or similar material. Buoyant pellets 134 may be comprised of perlite, polystyrene, or other lightweight closed cell materials. The buoyant pellets provide additional buoyancy to the structure if required for a particular application.
The first purpose of the bonded growth medium 125 is to provide an optimal growth environment for seeds and plants. A second optional purpose of the bonded growth medium 125 is to provide a low-permeability gas barrier around the outer surface of the island, thereby trapping within the body of the island water vapor and gases produced by microbes. The water vapor minimizes “air pruning” of plant roots, and the other gasses provide additional buoyancy to the island structure. The bonded growth medium 125 also serves as a protective agent to prevent deterioration of the matrix 126 and buoyant inclusions 127 by ambient ultraviolet (“UV”) sunlight. The UV protection may be provided by the natural light-absorbing qualities of the peat fibers or similar material 129, or the UV protection of the bonded growth medium 125 can be boosted by adding a UV-blocking agent to the uncured bonded growth medium mix prior to application. One example of a suitable common UV-blocking agent is carbon black.
In one embodiment, the binder 130 is comprised of a porous and permeable material, such as open cell polyurethane foam or cellulose (similar to kitchen sponges). In this embodiment, the binder transports water to the seeds 131, 132 and plants (not shown) from the capillary channels 128, or from the water body (not shown) in which the island is floating. In another embodiment, the binder 130 is comprised of nonporous thermoplastic such as TPE or other nonporous, non-permeable binder material. In this embodiment, the ratio of peat fibers 129 and binder 130 is designed so that the proportion of peat fibers 129 is sufficient to serve as the water transport medium through the bonded growth medium 125.
The bonded growth medium 125 is preferably manufactured as a viscous liquid in the uncured state, which changes to a flexible solid after curing. The uncured bonded growth medium 125 is poured or sprayed over the top of the matrix and binds to the matrix 126 during the curing process. An infiltration zone 135 occurs where bonded growth medium 125 infiltrates into the matrix 126 prior to curing. In the case where the temperature of the uncured bonded growth medium 125 is low enough for seeds to survive, the embedded seeds 131 may be added to the mixture during manufacture, and the topcoat seeds 132 may be sprinkled onto the uncured bonded growth medium 125 after it has been applied to the matrix 126. In the case where the temperature of the uncured bonded growth medium 125 is excessive for seed survival, embedded seeds 131 may be installed via holes punched into the partially or fully cured bonded growth medium 125 after it has cooled sufficiently, and topcoat seeds 132 may be attached by a conventional nontoxic adhesive.
The embedded bonded growth medium shown in
A second method of manufacturing the embedded bonded growth medium involves injecting the uncured bonded growth medium into each sheet of matrix prior to stacking. This method can be used in connection with nonwoven mesh materials such as Americo's POLY-FLO, which is typically supplied in two-inch thick sheets. Multiple layers of matrix sheets are stacked and bonded to make a floating island, as shown in
A third method of manufacturing the embedded bonded growth medium involves stacking the matrix layers prior to injecting the bonded growth medium. Injection is accomplished as described above. In this embodiment, the bonded growth medium may act as an adhesive to bond the layers of matrix.
As alluded to above in connection with the discussion of
Further contributing to the filter effect, the plants that are grown on the island can be selected on the basis of their ability to contribute to the removal of phosphorus and other nutrients from the water body. Specifically, the wetland plants that utilize phosphorus in large quantities include: Scirpus validus (Bulrush), Phragmites coinmunis (common reed), and Typa latifola (cattail). Plant uptake of phosphorus during the algae growing season will reduce the amount of phosphorus available for algae production and thereby impact the eutrophication process. It is expected that the types of plants listed above, if grown on the floating island of the present invention, could reduce the overall phosphorus concentration in the water passing through the floating island by 40 to 70%. The amount of nutrients removed by this process will be proportional to the hydraulic loading rate for the island (i.e., the rate at which water passes through the island). Various mechanisms, such as a water pump, could be used to increase the hydraulic loading rate and, therefore, the amount of nutrient removed. In addition, the structure of the island could be adjusted to take maximum advantage of its filtering capacity. For example, the profile of the island above the water surface could be increased to a higher level in order to provide a greater unsaturated volume of media through which water could be filtered.
To enhance the filter effect of the present invention, a water distribution system may be used to pump water from beneath the island and spread it across the surface of the island, allowing the water to percolate through the fibers of the island matrix (or the nonwoven mesh material) for biological treatment.
The system shown in
In a preferred embodiment, the tray 142 is constructed of lightweight plastic, such as polyethylene, that is impermeable to both water and plant roots. In an alternative embodiment, the tray 142 is constructed of a material such as TPE that is impermeable to water but that is capable of being penetrated by growing plant roots. The island essentially sits in the tray, and the tray is attached to the floating island by any conventional fastening method.
The purpose of the optional air bubbles 143 is to increase the rate of aerobic conversion of nutrients by microbes. The energy source for the compressed air (not shown) that produces these bubbles may be utility electricity, solar-electric, wind-mechanical, wind-electric, or other suitable means.
In addition to the beneficial effects discussed above, the floating islands of the present invention can also facilitate the process of carbon sequestration, which has become the subject of relatively new international environmental policies that provide financial incentives for growing plants that sequester carbon. Carbon sequestering is accomplished by growing plants that uptake carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and convert it via photosynthesis to organic carbon within the plant. This process reduces the greenhouse effect of atmospheric carbon dioxide by reducing the concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. In floating islands, carbon dioxide is reduced by direct removal from the atmosphere by the plants, and it is also reduced by microbial processes occurring below the waterline within the root community and matrix of the islands. When dissolved carbon dioxide is removed from water, it causes a corresponding reduction in atmospheric carbon dioxide because carbon dioxide will migrate from the air to the water in order to reestablish equilibrium between atmospheric and dissolved gas phases after the dissolved gas concentration in the water is reduced by the islands. Floating islands offer a novel and unique means for sequestering carbon because they can be installed at locations where typical carbon-sequestering plants (e.g., pine trees) cannot thrive.
The floating islands of the present invention can be positioned over nutrient-rich, oxygen-depleted marine zones, such as the “dead zone” in the Gulf of Mexico. The term “dead zone” generally refers to the situation in which nutrient-rich water flows into an ocean from a river, algae in the ocean water near the surface consume those nutrients and produce oxygen in the process, the algae cells eventually die and sink toward the bottom of the ocean, where the algae cells consume oxygen as they decay. Due to the large number of algae cells falling to the bottom of the ocean, all of the oxygen near the bottom is consumed, and there is no oxygen left in the water for fish, lobsters, or other animals, thus creating a “dead zone” near the ocean bottom. Within the dead zone, the water is nutrient-rich but oxygen-poor. Above the dead zone, near the ocean's surface, the water is both nutrient- and oxygen-rich.
In this situation, water from the dead zone can be pumped over the island (e.g., by windmills on the island), where it will provide nutrients to plants growing on the island. The plants on the island use sunlight energy to combine carbon dioxide from the air with nutrients in the water to make plant mass. This process removes carbon dioxide from the air (reducing the greenhouse effect) and sequesters the carbon in plant biomass. Additionally, when the “dead zone” water is pumped to the surface, new water circulates into the dead zone to replace the water that has been pumped out. This process accomplishes two beneficial effects: reduction of the dead zone and carbon sequestration.
In order to maximize the cost effectiveness of marine-based, carbon-sequestering islands, the islands can be designed so that they are “self-growing” by selecting plants that will provide lateral expansion of the surface of the island during their normal growth and death cycle. Examples of marine plants that could create their own substrate and expand laterally include seaweeds of the genera Eucheuma and Kappaphycus. Examples of plants that may tolerate a saline environment include Sea Rush (Juncus maritimus), Sea Lavender (Limoniun latifolia) and similar species. By fostering the growth of plants that tolerate saline environments and provide lateral expansion, the originally installed islands act as “island seeds” that grow larger over time.
Another method that could be used to expand the surface area of the floating islands of the present invention involves a biological adhesive and bonding process, such as that described for the marine mussel Mytilus edulus in the book Biomimicry (Janine Benus, HarperCollins, 1997). The mussel produces cross-linked strands of protein with very high cohesive and adhesive properties, and the mussel-produced adhesive can be applied underwater. This adhesive material would be useful for bonding matrix fibers in the floating islands, for “growing” islands after deployment, and for trapping sediment particles from the water, thereby improving water clarity. “Growing the islands” could be accomplished by periodically dosing the edges of an island with biological adhesive. Because the adhesive remains sticky when wet, it would tend to catch debris such as grass, leaves and twigs floating in the water. This debris would adhere to the edges of the island and provide a substrate for plant growth, thereby causing the island to expand laterally. The adhesive would also trap fine waterborne and windblown sediment particles that contact the island. The biological adhesive could be manufactured by mussels or reproduced synthetically in a laboratory.
The integral boat-docking feature has several useful applications. First, it provides a safe location for storing boats during storms because the flexible nature of the nonwoven mesh island matrix provides an energy-absorbing support for the boat hull during periods of high waves and/or wind. Second, the boat docking area provides an efficient method of supporting the boat during egress and ingress of passengers who may be visiting the island for pleasure or maintenance. Third, the island can be used to provide additional docking facilities where existing docking space is limited or expensive. Fourth, the island can be used as a means for concealing a boat and passengers for hunting or wildlife photography purposes. Although the structure of
Although numerous embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many changes and modifications may be made without departing from the invention in its broader aspects. The appended claims are therefore intended to cover all such changes and modifications as fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention.
REFERENCES
- AUTEX Research Journal, Vol. 3, No. 2, Association of Universities for Textiles, June 2003, p. 68.
- Joseph B. Franzini and E. John Finnemore, Fluid Mechanics, 9th ed., McGraw-Hill Company, 1997.
- Robert Kadlee and Robert Knight, “Treatment Wetlands,” Lewis Publishers, 1995.
Claims
1. (canceled)
2. (canceled)
3. (canceled)
4. (canceled)
5. (canceled)
6. (canceled)
7. A floating island comprising one or more layers, wherein at least one of the layers is comprised of water-permeable, nonwoven mesh material and buoyant nodules, and wherein the buoyant nodules are manufactured into the mesh material.
8. (canceled)
9. The floating island of claim 7, wherein the buoyant nodules are comprised of closed cell polymer foam.
10. (canceled)
11. The floating island of claim 7, wherein the buoyant nodules are comprised of polystyrene.
12. (canceled)
13. A floating island comprising one or more layers of nonwoven mesh material, wherein the layers are joined by an adhesive.
14. The floating island of claim 13, wherein the adhesive comprises a hot-melt glue.
15. The floating island of claim 13, wherein the adhesive comprises polyurethane foam.
16. The floating island of claim 13, wherein the adhesive comprises soy-based foam.
17. (canceled)
18. A floating island comprising scrap pieces of nonwoven mesh material, buoyant nodules, and an outer covering.
19. The floating island of claim 18, wherein the outer covering is fabricated by placing a bundle of scrap pieces of nonwoven mesh material into a heatable mold, heating the mold to the melting point of the nonwoven mesh material, and allowing the outer fibers of the bundle to soften and fuse.
20. The floating island of claim 18, wherein the outer covering is fabricated by softening and fusing the outer fibers of a bundle of scrap pieces of nonwoven mesh material with a solvent.
21. The floating island of claim 20, wherein the solvent is di-octyl phosphate.
22. The floating island of claim 18, wherein the outer covering is comprised of nylon netting.
23. A floating island comprising an upper section of relatively tightly packed nonwoven mesh and a lower section of relatively loosely packed nonwoven mesh.
24. The floating island of claim 23, wherein the density of the upper section of nonwoven mesh is selected so as to optimize it for plant root growth and durability.
25. The floating island of claim 23, wherein the density of the lower section of nonwoven mesh is selected so as to provide openings between the mesh fibers that offer security and feeding habitat for small baitfish.
26. (canceled)
27. (canceled)
28. A floating island comprising one or more layers of nonwoven mesh material and further comprising floats that are installed into the floating island during assembly of the layers.
29. The floating island of claim 28, wherein the floats are comprised of hard plastic.
30. The floating island of claim 28, wherein the floats are comprised of foam fish net floats.
31. A floating island comprising one or more layers of water-permeable, nonwoven mesh material and expanding foam.
32. (canceled)
33. (canceled)
34. (canceled)
35. A floating island comprising one or more layers of water-permeable, nonwoven mesh material and one or more buoyant blocks.
36. (canceled)
37. A floating island comprising capillary tubes and an absorbent top cover.
38. A floating island comprising wicking units and an absorbent top cover.
39. The floating island of claim 38, wherein the wicking units are comprised of fabric.
40. The floating island of claims 37 or 38, wherein the absorbent top cover is planted with seeds.
41. The floating island of claims 37 or 38, wherein the absorbent top cover is coated with a mixture of seeds and adhesive.
42. The floating island of claim 41, wherein nutrients are added to the mixture of seeds and adhesive.
43. (canceled)
44. (canceled)
45. (canceled)
46. (canceled)
47. (canceled)
48. (canceled)
49. (canceled)
50. (canceled)
51. (canceled)
52. (canceled)
53. A floating island comprising at least one layer of nonwoven mesh material, supplemental flotation units and stepping pads.
54. The floating island of claim 53, further comprising buoyant nodules.
55. The floating island of claim 53, wherein the supplemental flotation units are comprised of polyurethane foam sealant.
56. The floating island of claim 53, wherein the supplemental flotation units are comprised of closed cell polymer foam.
57. The floating island of claim 53, wherein the stepping pads are comprised of outdoor carpeting.
58. The floating island of claim 53, wherein the stepping pads are comprised of synthetic stones made of molded fiberglass.
59. The floating island of claim 53, further comprising one or more artificial stepping stones.
60. (canceled)
61. The floating island of claim 53, further comprising one or more closed cell foam blocks.
62. The floating island of claim 53, further comprising one or more closed cell foam cylinders.
63. A floating island comprising at least one layer of nonwoven mesh material and one or more load distribution members.
64. The floating island of claim 63, wherein the load distribution members are comprised of pipe.
65. The floating island of claim 63, wherein the load distribution members are comprised of hose.
66. The floating island of claim 63, wherein the load distribution members are comprised of aluminum channels.
67. The floating island of claim 63, wherein the load distribution members are comprised of metal foam.
68. The floating island of claim 63, wherein the load distribution members are comprised of amorphous metal foam.
69. The floating island of claim 63, wherein the diameter of each load distribution member is in the range of about one inch to about 18 inches, wherein the wall thickness of the each load distribution member is in the range of about 1/16 inch to about one inch, and wherein the useful bending modulus of each load distribution member is in the range of about 5,000 psi to 500,000 psi.
70. A floating island comprising a stepping stone flotation assembly, wherein the stepping stone flotation assembly comprises at least two artificial stepping stones and a connecting cable unit.
71. The floating island of claim 70, wherein the connecting cable unit is comprised of plastic rope.
72. The floating island of claim 70, wherein the connecting cable unit is comprised of rustproof metal cable.
73. A floating island comprising a stepping stone/vertical buoyant member flotation assembly, wherein the stepping stone/vertical buoyant member flotation assembly comprises an artificial stepping stone and a vertically installed buoyant member.
74. The floating island of claim 73, wherein the buoyant member is comprised of air-filled plastic pipe.
75. The floating island of claim 73, wherein the buoyant member is comprised of closed cell foam-filled plastic pipe.
76. (canceled)
77. A floating island comprising a rigid framework, wherein the rigid framework comprises one or more horizontal members.
78. The floating island of claim 77, wherein the horizontal members are filled with air.
79. The floating island of claim 77, wherein the horizontal members are filled with foam.
80. The floating island of claim 77, further comprising at least one layer of nonwoven mesh material and locking straps that hold the mesh material to the rigid framework.
81. (canceled)
82. (canceled)
83. (canceled)
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87. (canceled)
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89. (canceled)
90. A floating island comprising an adjustably buoyant framework of prefabricated flotation tubes and cross members.
91. The floating island of claim 90, wherein each flotation tube comprises a protective pipe, an inflatable tube, an air tube, and an air control valve.
92. The floating island of claim 90, wherein each cross member comprises a strap, a plurality of pipe positioning devices, and a plurality of island body attachment posts.
93. The floating island of claim 92, wherein the strap is comprised of galvanized steel channels.
94. The floating island of claim 92, wherein the strap is comprised of aluminum tubing.
95. The floating island of claim 92, wherein the strap is comprised of rigid plastic tubing.
96. The floating island of claim 92, wherein the pipe positioning devices are attached in pairs to the straps, with a pipe positioning device on each side of a pipe.
97. The floating island of claim 90, wherein the cross members are positioned above the flotation tubes to provide a flat base for the island body.
98. The floating island of claim 90, wherein each cross member comprises a strap and a plurality of island body attachment posts, and wherein the straps are bent around the flotation tubes to hold them in place.
99. A floating island comprising one or more single attachment point flotation units, wherein each flotation unit comprises a barbed attachment spike and a float.
100. The floating island of claim 99, wherein the barbed attachment spikes are comprised of corrosion-resistant metal.
101. The floating island of claim 99, wherein the barbed attachment spikes are comprised of rigid plastic.
102. The floating island of claim 99, wherein the float is comprised of a buoyant and durable material.
103. The floating island of claim 99, wherein the barbed attachment spike is positioned within a hole inside the float.
104. A floating island comprising a flotation unit, a buoyant feature and a means for attaching the flotation unit to the buoyant feature.
105. The floating island of claim 104, wherein the means for attaching the flotation unit to the buoyant feature is a retaining pin.
106. (canceled)
107. (canceled)
108. (canceled)
109. (canceled)
110. (canceled)
111. (canceled)
112. (canceled)
113. (canceled)
114. (canceled)
115. (canceled)
116. (canceled)
117. A floating island comprising a skeleton frame, a floor, buoyant intrusions, soil growth medium, soil-based plants and matrix-based plants, wherein the skeleton frame and floor are comprised of a porous matrix, and wherein the matrix-based plants are grown in portions of the island that are comprised of the porous matrix.
118. The floating island of claim 117, further comprising at least one divider, wherein the divider(s) is/are comprised of a porous matrix.
119. The floating island of claim 117, wherein the porous matrix is nonwoven mesh material.
120. The floating island of claim 117, wherein the matrix-based plants are grown on portions of the island that are comprised of the nonwoven mesh material
121. The floating island of claim 117, wherein the soil growth medium comprises natural organic material and synthetic organic material.
122. The floating island of claim 121, wherein the synthetic organic material is pieces of nonwoven polyester matrix scrap.
123. The floating island of claim 117, further comprising bonded growth medium, wherein the bonded growth medium comprises peat fibers and binder.
124. The floating island of claim 123, wherein the bonded growth medium is infused into the skeleton frame and/or floor.
125. The floating island of claim 118, further comprising bonded growth medium, wherein the bonded growth medium comprises peat fibers and binder, and wherein the bonded growth medium is infused into the divider(s).
126. (canceled)
127. (canceled)
128. (canceled)
129. (canceled)
130. (canceled)
131. (canceled)
132. (canceled)
133. (canceled)
134. (canceled)
135. (canceled)
136. A floating island comprising bonded growth medium, porous matrix, and buoyant inclusions.
137. The floating island of claim 136, wherein the bonded growth medium is comprised of peat fibers and binder.
138. The floating island of claim 137, wherein the binder is comprised of a porous and permeable material.
139. The floating island of claim 138, wherein the porous and permeable material is open cell polyurethane foam.
140. The floating island of claim 138, wherein the porous and permeable material is cellulose.
141. The floating island of claim 137, wherein the binder is comprised of a nonporous, non-permeable material.
142. The floating island of claim 141, wherein the nonporous, non-permeable material is thermoplastic.
143. The floating island of claim 137, wherein the ratio of peat fibers to binder is designed so that the proportion of peat fibers is sufficient to serve as the water transport medium through the bonded growth medium.
144. The floating island of claim 137, wherein the bonded growth medium is further comprised of embedded seeds.
145. The floating island of claim 137, wherein the bonded growth medium is further comprised of topcoat seeds.
146. The floating island of claim 137, wherein the bonded growth medium is further comprised of nutrient particles.
147. The floating island of claim 146, wherein the nutrient particles are comprised of commercial slow-release plant fertilizer.
148. The floating island of claim 137, wherein the bonded growth medium is further comprised of buoyant pellets.
149. The floating island of claim 148, wherein the buoyant pellets are comprised of a closed cell material.
150. The floating island of claim 149, wherein the closed cell material is perlite.
151. The floating island of claim 149, wherein the closed cell material is polystyrene.
152. The floating island of claim 137, wherein the bonded growth medium is further comprised of beneficial microbes.
153. The floating island of claim 137, wherein the bonded growth medium is further comprised of an ultraviolet light-blocking agent.
154. The floating island of claim 153, wherein the ultraviolet light-blocking agent is carbon black.
155. The floating island of claim 136, wherein the porous matrix is comprised of any lightweight, porous material penetrable by plant roots.
156. The floating island of claim 136, wherein the buoyant inclusions are comprised of any nontoxic buoyant material.
157. The floating island of claim 136, wherein the buoyant inclusions are comprised of closed cell foam.
158. The floating island of claim 136, wherein the buoyant inclusions are comprised of polyurethane spray foam.
159. The floating island of claim 136, further comprising capillary channels.
160. The floating island of claim 159, wherein the capillary channels are filled with wicking material.
161. The floating island of claim 160, wherein wicking material supplies water to the bonded growth medium.
162. The floating island of claim 160, wherein the wicking material comprises peat.
163. The floating island of claim 160, wherein the wicking material comprises polyester felt.
164. The floating island of claim 159, wherein the capillary channels are filled with bonded growth medium.
165. The floating island of claim 136, wherein the floating island comprises an outer surface, and wherein the bonded growth medium is attached to the outer surface of the floating island.
166. A floating island comprising at least two layers of nonwoven mesh material, wherein the layers are stacked and bonded together.
167. The floating island of claim 166, further comprising bonded growth medium, wherein the bonded growth medium is situated between the layers of nonwoven mesh material.
168. (canceled)
169. (canceled)
170. (canceled)
171. (canceled)
172. (canceled)
173. (canceled)
174. (canceled)
175. (canceled)
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198. (canceled)
199. (canceled)
200. (canceled)
201. (canceled)
202. (canceled)
203. (canceled)
204. A method of forming a floating island, comprising the steps of:
- (a) taking a bundle of scrap pieces of nonwoven mesh material;
- (b) placing the bundle of scrap pieces of nonwoven mesh material in a heatable mold;
- (c) heating the mold to the melting point of the nonwoven mesh material; and
- (d) allowing the outer fibers of the bundle to soften and fuse, forming a porous “skin” around the unmelted center pieces of mesh material.
205. A method of forming a floating island, comprising the steps of:
- (a) taking a bundle of scrap pieces of nonwoven mesh material;
- (b) applying a solvent to the outer fibers of the bundle; and
- (c) allowing the outer fibers to soften and fuse, forming a porous “skin” around the rest of the bundle.
206. A method of constructing a series of floating islands, comprising the steps of:
- (a) removing a section of material from a layer of nonwoven mesh material by cutting it out to form a first cutout;
- (b) removing a section of material from the first cutout by cutting it out to form a second cutout; and
- (c) continuing this process until the material has been used up or the desired number of islands has been achieved.
207. A method of manufacturing the floating island of claim 136 comprising the steps of:
- (a) pouring or spraying the bonded growth medium in a viscous liquid state onto the matrix; and
- (b) allowing the bonded growth medium to cure.
208. The method of claim 207, further comprising the step of:
- (c) adding topcoat seeds to the bonded growth medium before pouring or spraying it onto the matrix.
209. The method of claim 207, further comprising the step of:
- (c) sprinkling topcoat seeds onto the bonded growth medium after it has been poured or sprayed onto the matrix but before it has cured.
210. The method of claim 207, further comprising the step of:
- (c) installing embedded seeds into the bonded growth medium after it has partially or fully cured by punching holes into the bonded growth medium and inserting the seeds into the holes.
211. The method of claim 207, further comprising the step of:
- (c) attaching topcoat seeds to the bonded growth medium after it has cured using a nontoxic adhesive.
212. A method of manufacturing the floating island of claim 136, comprising the steps of:
- (a) wherein the porous matrix comprises multiple layers, injecting the bonded growth medium in an uncured, viscous state into each layer of matrix;
- (b) stacking the layers on top of one another; and
- (c) allowing the bonded growth medium to cure.
213. A method of manufacturing the floating island of claim 136, comprising the steps of:
- (a) wherein the porous matrix comprises multiple layers, stacking the layers on top of one another;
- (b) injecting the bonded growth medium in an uncured, viscous state between each layer of matrix;
- (c) allowing the bonded growth medium to cure.
214. A method of manufacturing the floating island of claim 137, comprising the steps of:
- (a) wherein the porous matrix comprises raw polyester fibers, adding the peat fibers to the raw polyester fibers in a mixing hopper;
- (b) adding latex binder to the mixture of raw polyester fibers and peat fibers, wherein the latex binder bonds the raw polyester fibers and peat fibers together.
215. A method of connecting a plurality of floating islands, wherein the floating islands are comprised of nonwoven mesh material, comprising the step of installing connectors between the islands, wherein the connectors are also comprised of nonwoven mesh material.
216. The method of claim 215, wherein the connectors are treated with bonded growth medium to facilitate plant growth.
217. A method of sequestering carbon, comprising the steps of:
- (a) installing a floating island on a body of water; and
- (b) growing on the island plants that uptake carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and convert it via photosynthesis to organic carbon within the plant.
218. The method of claim 217, further comprising the step of:
- (c) selecting plants that will provide lateral expansion of the surface of the island during their normal growth and death cycle.
219. (canceled)
220. (canceled)
221. The method of claim 217, further comprising the step of:
- (c) positioning the island over a nutrient-rich, oxygen-depleted marine zone.
222. The method of claim 221, further comprising the step of:
- (d) pumping water from the nutrient-rich, oxygen-depleted marine zone over the island, thereby allowing the plants on the island to use sunlight energy to combine carbon dioxide from the air with nutrients in the pumped water to make plant mass.
223. The method of claim 217, further comprising the step of:
- (c) using a biological adhesive to expand the surface area of the island by trapping and adhering to the island debris in the water and/or waterborne and windblown sediment particles that contact the island.
224. The floating island of claim 28, wherein the addition of the floats to the island imparts a flexibility to the island that allows it to undulate with wave action.
225. The floating island of claim 28, wherein the floats are not contiguous with one another, and wherein there is nonwoven mesh material between the floats.
226. The floating island of claim 31, wherein the addition of the expanding foam to the island imparts a flexibility to the island that allows it to undulate with wave action.
227. The floating island of claim 31, wherein the expandable foam is injected in nodules, wherein the nodules are not contiguous with one another, and wherein there is nonwoven mesh material between the nodules.
228. A floating island comprising one or more layers, wherein at least one of the layers is comprised of water-permeable, nonwoven mesh material, and wherein one of the nonwoven mesh layers is the top-most layer of the island.
Type: Application
Filed: Apr 20, 2005
Publication Date: Jun 4, 2009
Applicant: Fountainhead L.L.C. (Shepherd, MT)
Inventors: Bruce G. Kania (Shepherd, MT), Frank M. Stewart (Bozeman, MT), Russell F. Smith (Livingston, MT), Thomas N. Coleman (Livingston, MT), Alfred Cunningham (Bozeman, MT)
Application Number: 11/569,491
International Classification: C02F 3/32 (20060101); A01G 31/00 (20060101); B29C 65/02 (20060101); C02F 103/00 (20060101); B29C 37/00 (20060101);