Floating Patents (Class 405/26)
  • Patent number: 11866899
    Abstract: A triadic recurve implosion flood navigation for in-situ tailoring yearn system—[TRINITY-D20] has a tailoring mechanism comprising a first unit having an arc-shaped first arcuate portion, and a second unit having an arc-shaped second arcuate portion, the first and second units stagger each other with concave arcuate surfaces facing opposite directions by center axes of curvature of the first and second arcuate portions parallelling each other to cause an arcuate end of the first arcuate portion locate between two arcuate ends of the second arcuate portion and separated from the concave arcuate surface of the second arcuate portion by a first distance, and to cause an arcuate end of the second arcuate portion locate between two arcuate ends of the first arcuate portion and separated from the first arcuate portion by a second distance, thereby the first and second arcuate portions jointly define a curved channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2022
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2024
    Assignee: TUNGHAI UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Kuo-wei Chiu, Davina Doras Cranstoun
  • Patent number: 11534672
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for generating a wave in a body of water may include altering a flow of water as it is urged through an inlet, contoured passage, and outlet. For example, a primary flow of water may be altered so that one or more secondary flows are created at angles to the direction of primary flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2022
    Assignee: KA'ANA WAVE COMPANY INC.
    Inventor: James Alexander Watson
  • Patent number: 11235219
    Abstract: A self-propelled waterborne wave riding system includes a vessel having at least one motor and control system for navigating and propelling the vessel along a body of water. A rider section is located along the top of the vessel and includes a lower platform at the front of the vessel, an upper platform at the back of the vessel, and an elongated angled ride surface that extends between the upper and lower platforms. A pump system is provided along the vessel and includes an impeller assembly that is mechanically coupled to an inboard motor and a water pipe. Water received by the impeller is directed through the water pipe to a horizontally oriented nozzle in the lower platform which pushes the water over the ride surface. Openings in the upper platform return the used water into the body of water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2022
    Inventor: Eliu Perez
  • Patent number: 10975537
    Abstract: A flexible and displaceable wave-energy dissipation system includes a number of wave-energy dissipating system cells arranged forming a cell-type network. The system further includes one or more anchors securing the system to a floor or foundation site beneath a water body. Each anchor can include a vertical structural element securable to a plurality of concrete platforms or caps. The system cell can include one or more wave-energy dissipating units including a respective buoy. The buoys can be height-adjustable. Chains or other flexible links may connect the buoys to the anchors in various directions. The wave-energy dissipating units, when connected to one another, create a movable, wave-energy dissipating structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2021
    Inventor: Marco Escandell
  • Patent number: 10932452
    Abstract: The present invention provides aquaculture assemblies for culturing oysters in deep waters and includes at least one structure adapted for culturing an aquacultural species; at least one floatation means; and at least one anchoring means connecting said floatation means to the sea bed; wherein said structure is connected to or comprises said floatation means or said floatation means comprises said structure; and wherein said assembly is adapted for supporting said at least one structure either: a) substantially above the water surface at low-tide, and at least substantially below the water surface at high-tide, or b) substantially just below the water surface at low-tide, and fully below the water surface at high-tide. Methods for culturing aquacultural species using assemblies according to the invention are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2021
    Inventors: Steven J. Leslie, Yvonne E. Young
  • Patent number: 10619316
    Abstract: A multipurpose combined flexible floating breakwater, wherein each water-surface wave absorbing structure comprises a rubber buoy, a bearing rope passing through a central hole of the rubber buoy, active shackles connected at two ends of the bearing rope, and anti-sliding devices arranged at two ends of the rubber buoy to prevent the rubber buoy from sliding on the bearing rope randomly; a connecting structure comprises a cross-shaped pull ring and a connecting anchor chain, the cross-shaped pull ring is used for connecting adjacent water-surface wave absorbing structures in the same row, and the connecting anchor chain with two ends connected with the active shackles is used for connecting adjacent water-surface wave absorbing structures in different rows; and the purpose of mooring is achieved through a mooring system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2020
    Assignee: JIANGSU UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
    Inventors: Chunyan Ji, Xiaokang Deng, Jianting Guo
  • Patent number: 9976270
    Abstract: A device is provided for damping hydrosound in liquid emitted from a sound-emitting body in the liquid. The device includes a plurality of envelope bodies distributed in the liquid in an area of the hydrosound-emitting body and at a distance from each other. A material, diameter and pressure of each envelope body is configured such that a natural frequency of the envelope body corresponds to an emitted frequency range of the hydrosound so as to dampen the hydrosound. The device also includes at least one mass body disposed in the liquid. The envelope bodies are connected to the mass bodies so as to prevent the envelope bodies from rising up in the liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2018
    Inventor: Karl-Heinz Elmer
  • Patent number: 9812112
    Abstract: Acoustic resonators are formed by injection molding or other process that allows the shape, size, orientation, and arrangement of each resonator to be customized. Customizing the features of the resonators allows their resonance frequency to be adjusted based on their intended deployment. A non-periodic or non-uniform arrangement of the resonators can increase the level of noise reduction compared to a periodic or uniform arrangement of the resonators. A chain guard includes a recess to receive a chain that supports a plurality of resonator rows or frames. In the stowed configuration, the chain guard pivots towards the row/frame to more compactly stow a panel of resonators.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: Board of Regents, The University of Texas System
    Inventors: Mark S. Wochner, Andrew R. McNeese, Kevin M. Lee, Preston S. Wilson
  • Patent number: 9739023
    Abstract: A rapid-deployment system for containing oil spills and similar water contaminations comprises a pre-manufactured sleeve having air-inflatable or gas-inflatable compartments and water inflatable compartments. In some embodiments uninflated sleeve is stored as a reel of sleeve material, and the deployment system, optionally mounted in a small boat, comprises a machine for inflating the air and water compartments at the site of a spill. In some embodiments, air and/or water compartments may be self-inflating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: HARBO Technologies Ltd.
    Inventors: Arnon Shany, Boaz Ur, Haim Greenberg
  • Patent number: 9607601
    Abstract: A system for reducing noise emissions in underwater environments is presented. The system can be extended to applications in any two-fluid environments where one fluid (gas) is contained in an enclosed resonator volume connected to the outside environment at an open end of the resonator body. The resonators act as gas-containing (e.g., air) Helmholtz resonators constructed into solid panels that are submerged in the fluid medium (e.g., sea water) in the vicinity of a noise generating source. The oscillations of the trapped air volume in the resonators causes reduction of certain noise energy and a general reduction in the transmitted noise in the environment of the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Board of Regents, The Univesity Systems
    Inventors: Preston Wilson, Kevin M. Lee, Mark S. Wochner, Hector L. Mendez Martinez
  • Patent number: 9315963
    Abstract: An offshore atoll system includes a continuous barrier, the continuous barrier having one or more modular sections coupled together, wherein each of the one or more modular sections have at least one concave surface positioned at a sea surface. The continuous barrier also includes one or more thrusters disposed along a length thereof. The continuous barrier is provided to reduce a magnitude of incoming waves on at least one side of the continuous barrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2016
    Assignee: Deep Down, Inc.
    Inventor: Ron Smith
  • Patent number: 9115476
    Abstract: A floating wave attenuator including a plurality of elongated pipes, each including a plurality of corrugated pipes connected end-to-end, wherein the elongated pipes are secured together into a triangular formation oriented substantially between a protected area and anticipated wave activity, to provide a cross section against the wave activity, an opening at each end of the elongated pipes, for providing the elongated pipes to be substantially filled with water due to wave activity, and a plurality of cables for securing a selected corrugated pipe at its desired location within the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2015
    Inventors: Tim Osby, Max Volk
  • Patent number: 9085865
    Abstract: The inventive wave dissipating device includes a sea surface sheet to be installed along a sea surface, a sea submergence sheet to be installed below the sea surface sheet generally parallel to the sea surface sheet in sea, and connection ropes connecting the sheets to each other. The sea surface sheet has a predetermined area, and functions as a float to float on the sea surface in an installed state. The sea submergence sheet has the same area as the sea surface sheet When the sea surface sheet is likely to be moved by the tsunami, the sea submergence sheet functions as a weight to prevent the movement of the sea surface sheet, thereby dissipating the wave.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2015
    Inventor: Kaichiro Kamei
  • Patent number: 8974143
    Abstract: An offshore atoll system includes a continuous barrier positioned at a sea surface and configured to reduce a magnitude of incoming waves on at least one side of the continuous barrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Assignee: Deep Down, Inc.
    Inventor: Ron Smith
  • Publication number: 20140369755
    Abstract: Buoyancy compensated erosion control modules and systems are provided. One embodiment includes a shell having at least one wall oriented at an off-vertical angle, a substantially enclosed inner cavity, the inner cavity at least partially filled with a foam core, a perimeter footing at the bottom of the shell, the perimeter footing having a lower cavity that is open on the bottom, at least one vertical pile sleeve and at least one battered pile sleeve, and at least one connector to couple the module to a second module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Publication date: December 18, 2014
    Inventors: Grant Jansen, Austin Huang
  • Publication number: 20140328628
    Abstract: The present invention provides a floating flap gap which has a door body with a forward end which is able to swing upwards, in a direction in which the water flows into an opening or at an access way, around a base end thereof serving as a fulcrum. The door body is attached to one end of a wire rope, and an auxiliary force generating means is attached to the other end thereof. This structure makes it possible to prevent an overflow during the initial influx of water and to enhance the ability of the door body to follow the water level when the door body begins to lower. This structure additionally makes it possible to mitigate a shock which occurs when raising of the door body is completed and when lowering of the door body is completed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2012
    Publication date: November 6, 2014
    Applicant: HITACHI ZOSEN CORPORATION
    Inventors: Kyouichi Nakayasu, Toshiaki Morii, Ryouta Yoshiki, Masaki Inui, Yuuichirou Kimura
  • Publication number: 20140205381
    Abstract: A wildlife deterrent for preventing waterfowl egress from bodies of water, said wildlife deterrent consisting of a sheet material, attachment and securing means, where the sheet material is secured in proximity to the shoreline of the body of water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2013
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Inventor: Neil L. McClure
  • Publication number: 20140178130
    Abstract: The inventive wave dissipating device includes a sea surface sheet to be installed along a sea surface, a sea submergence sheet to be installed below the sea surface sheet generally parallel to the sea surface sheet in sea, and connection ropes connecting the sheets to each other. The sea surface sheet has a predetermined area, and functions as a float to float on the sea surface in an installed state. The sea submergence sheet has the same area as the sea surface sheet When the sea surface sheet is likely to be moved by the tsunami, the sea submergence sheet functions as a weight to prevent the movement of the sea surface sheet, thereby dissipating the wave.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2013
    Publication date: June 26, 2014
    Inventor: Kaichiro KAMEI, II
  • Publication number: 20140161532
    Abstract: A constrained buoy experiencing vortex-induced, in-line and transverse angular motions and designed to absorb and attenuate the energies of streams, rivers and localized ocean currents is described. Referred to as a Finned-Spar-Buoy (FSB), the buoy design can be considered an exoskeleton, in that vertical fins are externally mounted on a vertical cylindrical float. The fins increase the drag coefficient by enhancing the wake losses. The FSB operates as a single unit or as a component of an array, depending on the application. The FSB can adjust to high-water events caused by tides, storm surges or spring-melting runoffs because the FSB can move axially along a center-staff which is attached to an anchor pole at a pivot point. The buoy-staff system is allowed to rotate in any angular direction from the vertical, still-water orientation of the center-staff. The FSB has a relatively small diameter-to-draft ratio, analytically qualifying the buoy as a slender-body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2012
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Applicant: MURTECH, INC.
    Inventors: Michael E. McCormick, Robert Murtha
  • Patent number: 8747023
    Abstract: A wave break structure having a body with a bulkhead and a first pontoon and a second pontoon. The first pontoon is positioned on one side of the bulkhead and the second pontoon is positioned on the opposite side of the bulkhead. The bulkhead extends substantially above the first and second pontoons. The bulkhead and the pontoons are integrally formed together of a metallic material. The bulkhead having a first wall extending at least 45° with respect to a second wall of said bulkhead so as to have an inverted V-shaped configuration. A crushed stone coating is applied to a surface of the bulkhead.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Inventor: Robert Walker
  • Patent number: 8739725
    Abstract: A marine barrier gate includes a pleated row of buoyant panels movable between an expanded position and a retracted position, where the panels are substantially parallel. A first buoy is attached to a first end of the panel row, and a second buoy is remote from the panels when the panels are in the retracted position. The second buoy has a tow winch and cable attached to a second end opposite the first end, for moving the panels from the retracted position to the expanded position. The first buoy comprises a catenary winch and cable movably engagable with the panels and attached to the second buoy. When the panels are in the retracted position, the catenary winch sets a length or tension of the catenary cable such that it absorbs catenary loads on the barrier when the panels are moved to the expanded position by the tow winch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: HALO Maritime Defense Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Justin Bishop
  • Patent number: 8695947
    Abstract: A security barrier system includes a security barrier unit including a first panel group, a second panel group, a connecting member for connecting the first panel group and the second panel group. The first and second panel groups are disposed substantially in parallel and face each other. Each of the first and second panel groups includes one or more sub-panel groups, each of which includes barrier panels arranged in line, intermediate members each disposed between adjacent barrier panels, rope tubes and ropes. Each barrier panel has a front face, a rear face and side faces and has channels passing through from one side face to another side face. The rope tubes are disposed in the channels, respectively, so that the rope tubes pass through the barrier panels and the intermediate members. The barrier panels and the intermediate members are connected by the ropes disposed in the rope tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Halo Maritime Defense Systems
    Inventor: Justin Bishop
  • Patent number: 8678709
    Abstract: According to the invention, a security net can be erected in or on water or on the ground and is provided with a net or net-like structure (1) manufactured substantially from wire material, rope material, strand material or plastics material (2). The net (1) is bent together and forms longitudinal flanks (3, 4) and at least one arched region (5). The overlapping longitudinal flanks (3, 4) can be connected together and several stabilizers (8) are associated with the net (1). In cross-section, the net (1) is constructed similarly to a teardrop, with the arched region (5) lying on or at least partially in the water. In this way, a largely double-walled security system is obtained, which is able to intercept impacting objects reliably and moreover gently, because the net and the three-dimensional protective net structure is deformable due to the relative flexibility thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Geobrugg AG
    Inventors: Peter Utz, Stephan Wartmann
  • Patent number: 8647014
    Abstract: A buoy for use in reducing the amplitude of waves in water and a system making use of plural buoys to create a floating breakwater. Each buoy is arranged to be constrained, e.g., connected to an anchor, and comprising a body e.g., a cylindrical member having at least one outwardly projecting fin, that is configured to be resonant and impedance matched. The buoy and anchoring approach allows for self-tuning to the changes in the wave spectrum due to the tidal or storm surge induced changes in the water depth. The body of the floating buoy is not limited to circular cylinder, and could be square, hexagonal, triangular, etc. but must have at least one exterior mounted fin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Murtech, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael E. McCormick, Robert Murtha
  • Patent number: 8636101
    Abstract: A device for damping and scattering hydrosound and wave motions in water includes a plurality of envelope bodies, each enclosing a gas and each spaced at a distance from one another and surrounded by the water, wherein the device is configured to receive water flowing through it in a direction of sound propagation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Inventor: Karl-Heinz Elmer
  • Patent number: 8622650
    Abstract: The instant invention describes a multi-purpose rotational barrier unit and a system of interconnected barrier units which function in multiple environments, including aquatic environments and land-based environments. The multi-purpose rotational barrier unit has a design configuration which provides hydro-dynamic stability in strong currents and high waves and resists roll over. The multi-purpose rotational barrier unit comprises a plurality of equally sized walls interconnected to form side walls and a bottom wall. Connected to the side walls and the bottom wall are two opposing end walls which define a hollow interior portion. The opposing end walls contain one or more rotation members which are constructed and arranged to provide the barrier unit rotational movement which is independent from the movement of other barrier units directly attached to its opposing walls or units which may indirectly be attached as part of a larger barrier wall system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Inventor: Robert Lifton
  • Patent number: 8585318
    Abstract: A wave break structure having a body with a bulkhead and a first pontoon and a second pontoon. The first pontoon is positioned on one side of the bulkhead and the second pontoon is positioned on the opposite side of the bulkhead. The bulkhead extends substantially above the first and second pontoons. The bulkhead and the pontoons are integrally formed together of a metallic material. The body has a first tow bar and a second tow bar affixed at an end thereof. A plurality of ports extends through a thickness of bulkhead. The bulkhead and the pontoons have angled surfaces so that one body can nest within an adjacent body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Inventor: Robert Walker
  • Patent number: 8506205
    Abstract: Wave attenuation systems are disclosed. For example, a wave-attenuating panel can define a plane, a center-of buoyancy and a center-of-mass spaced from the center-of-buoyancy such that the panel is stably buoyant in a liquid with the plane oriented vertically. Wave attenuators are also disclosed. Such a wave attenuator can comprise a first row of support members extending vertically relative to a seabed and a second row of support members spaced from the first row. A vertically oriented, movable panel can be positioned between the first row and the second row, such that the panel is configured to rise and fall in a substantially vertical plane. Such wave attenuators can also comprise a second, fixed panel that remains submerged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Inventors: Allen J. Danskine, David H. Rytand, Daniel J. Jankelson, Justin W. Rawls
  • Publication number: 20130170909
    Abstract: A floating wave attenuator including a plurality of elongated pipes, each including a plurality of corrugated pipes connected end-to-end, wherein the elongated pipes are secured together into a triangular formation oriented substantially between a protected area and anticipated wave activity, to provide a cross section against the wave activity, an opening at each end of the elongated pipes, for providing the elongated pipes to be substantially filled with water due to wave activity, and a plurality of cables for securing a selected corrugated pipe at its desired location within the water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2012
    Publication date: July 4, 2013
    Inventors: Tim Osby, Max Volk
  • Patent number: 8287208
    Abstract: Wave attenuation systems are disclosed. For example, a wave-attenuating panel can define a plane, a center-of buoyancy and a center-of-mass spaced from the center-of-buoyancy such that the panel is stably buoyant in a liquid with the plane oriented vertically. Wave attenuators are also disclosed. Such a wave attenuator can comprise a first row of support members extending vertically relative to a seabed and a second row of support members spaced from the first row. A vertically oriented, movable panel can be positioned between the first row and the second row, such that the panel is configured to rise and fall in a substantially vertical plane. Such wave attenuators can also comprise a second, fixed panel that remains submerged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Inventors: Allen J. Danskine, David H. Rytand, Daniel J. Jankelson, Justin W. Rawls
  • Patent number: 8287209
    Abstract: Protective flood barrier system on the base of mobile protective flood barriers is offered. Each of these barriers comprises two or more filled elongate sleeves, a web, connecting theirs web and forming means. Envelops of said sleeves and said web are made from flexible impermeable material. These barriers are convenient for protection of separate houses, the extensive areas, as walls of a water basin. They allow reducing wind-induced waves and can be used for repair of earthen dams. The high-efficiency means accelerating installation of barriers are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Inventors: Boris Feldman, Alexander Feldman, Michael Feldman
  • Publication number: 20120251243
    Abstract: An offshore atoll system includes a continuous barrier positioned at a sea surface and configured to reduce a magnitude of incoming waves on at least one side of the continuous barrier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2012
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Applicant: DEEP DOWN, INC.
    Inventor: Ron Smith
  • Publication number: 20120076587
    Abstract: The present invention provides a movable breakwater that can do with a small amount of compressed air supplied to raise the buoyant steel pipe. The buoyant steel pipe 6 includes a buoyancy tank 6d in which gas is filled, an air chamber 6e provided above the buoyancy tank 6d, a penetration pipe 19 that penetrates through the buoyancy tank 6d and feeds compressed air supplied from a pressure accumulator tank 13 to the air chamber 6e, and an open chamber 6f, whose top side is open, provided above the air chamber 6e and in the buoyant steel pipe 6 at the upper end portion thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2010
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Applicant: MITSUBHISH HEAVY INDUSTRIES BRIDGE & STEEL STRUCTURES ENGINEERING CO., LTD
    Inventors: Hirofumi Inagaki, Yasuhiro Iida, Keiji Kanai, Makoto Kobayashi, Akira Sakaguchi, Taro Arikawa, Hirohide Kimura, Hisanobu Nagatomo, Kazuyoshi Kihara
  • Publication number: 20110299927
    Abstract: A buoy for use in reducing the amplitude of waves in water and a system making use of plural buoys to create a floating breakwater. Each buoy is arranged to be constrained, e.g., connected to an anchor, and comprising a body e.g., a cylindrical member having at least one outwardly projecting fin, that is configured to be resonant and impedance matched. The buoy and anchoring approach allows for self-tuning to the chances in the wave spectrum due to the tidal or storm surge induced changes in the water depth. The body of the floating buoy is not limited to circular cylinder, and could be square, hexagonal, triangular, etc but must have at least one exterior mounted fin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2011
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Applicant: MURTECH, INC.
    Inventors: Michael E. McCormick, Robert Murtha
  • Patent number: 8020836
    Abstract: A security barrier for use in a water location includes a plurality of barrier units, each having a plurality of individual panels; toppers attached between the barrier units for connecting the barrier units to one another and for disengaging the barrier units from one another when an impact occurs on the security barrier; butt plates attached between the toppers; a rope and a tube containing the rope for connecting individual panels; and a vertical pin for engaging the toppers and the butt plates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Halo Maritime Defense Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Justin Bishop
  • Patent number: 8007202
    Abstract: A system to protect structures in a marine environment from the effects of an impact force. The system includes a plurality of floatable devices (panels) and a plurality of fibrous networks. The fibrous networks include high tenacity fibers which extend at least in a generally horizontal direction and are in communication with the plurality of floatable panels. The plurality of fibrous networks are disposed in a generally parallel arrangement with respect to each other and are vertically spaced apart by a distance not exceeding about 12 inches (30.5 cm). The system is designed to be spaced from the structure to be protected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Honeywell International, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory A. Davis, Barbara M. Costain, Carolyn S. Westmark, Ashok Bhatnagar
  • Publication number: 20110150573
    Abstract: This invention relates to a novel water ballasted wave attenuator that can be used to diminish or eliminate the impact of waves on shorelines or objects located in or on water bodies. A water ballasted wave attenuator comprising: (a) a hollow shell formed of reinforced concrete; (b) a flotation medium disposed in the upper region of the interior of the reinforced concrete shell (a); (c) an air chamber disposed below the flotation medium (b) in the lower region of the interior of the reinforced concrete shell; and, (d) at least one water vent located in the interior of the reinforced concrete shell (a), said vent connecting the interior of the shell with the exterior of the shell.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2009
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Applicant: I.M.F.S. International Marine Floatation Systems Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Wittenberg, Lockhart Gordon Mccallum, Robert William Richard Field
  • Patent number: 7887254
    Abstract: A module for a wave attenuation system formed by connecting a plurality of panels in a structure positioned in a body of water, causes the dissipation of wave energy. Different configurations of panel, having different flow characteristics, used in the structure, and different types of connector used to connect panels, create different patterns of water flow within the structure, and contribute to wave energy dissipation. Units deployed in harbors, rivers, marinas and the like, help to prevent beach erosion and can facilitate beach nourishment. Embodiments can be utilized as a security barrier, preventing intrusion by trespassers, divers or various sized boats. A variety of sensors can be mounted to the structures, enabling detection of movement, chemical and biological agents, explosives or radiation. A submersible gate, comprising panels and a buoyancy control mechanism, allows for passage of boats and can be controlled remotely.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: Halo Maritime Defense Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Justin Bishop
  • Publication number: 20110002739
    Abstract: A durable, quickly deployable temporary floating breakwater (FBW) can protect areas in austere locations. A plurality of inflatable modules is encapsulated within a common cover, which holds the modules together and in some embodiments supports a causeway thereupon. A separate floating causeway can be included. Embodiments include a semi-permeable “sloping beach” section which causes waves to break before reaching the FBW. A bed of wave-energy-absorbing synthetic kelp can be attached to the sloping beach. The beach and/or kelp can include low-surface-energy fibers and films, such as olefins and polypropylenes, to remove oil from the water in case of an oil spill or accident. In embodiments, the FBW can be temporarily sunk to avoid extremely high seas, ice, and/or other surface hazards. The FBW is lightweight, can be quickly and compactly stowed, and in some embodiments can be transported and deployed from the deck of an LCU 1610.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2010
    Publication date: January 6, 2011
    Applicant: WARWICK MILLS, INC.
    Inventor: Charles A. Howland
  • Publication number: 20100196098
    Abstract: Wave attenuation systems are disclosed. For example, a wave-attenuating panel can define a plane, a center-of buoyancy and a center-of-mass spaced from the center-of-buoyancy such that the panel is stably buoyant in a liquid with the plane oriented vertically. Wave attenuators are also disclosed. Such a wave attenuator can comprise a first row of support members extending vertically relative to a seabed and a second row of support members spaced from the first row. A vertically oriented, movable panel can be positioned between the first row and the second row, such that the panel is configured to rise and fall in a substantially vertical plane. Such wave attenuators can also comprise a second, fixed panel that remains submerged.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2010
    Publication date: August 5, 2010
    Inventors: Allen J. Danskine, David H. Rytand, Daniel J. Jankelson, Justin W. Rawls
  • Publication number: 20100074686
    Abstract: A structure for use in a body of water has at least one level that includes a boat lift, a narrow dock, or a larger entertainment area, or combinations of these items on multi-level structures (e.g. a boat lift on a first level and an entertainment area on a second level). The structure can be towed to or from a body of water independently of other structures. The structure includes a buoyancy system, e.g. at least one ballast tank or inflatable bladder, for allowing the structure to float in a buoyant state or to sink in a non-buoyant state into engagement with a bottom of the body of water. One or more structures such as these can be assembled to form an artificial breakwater by placing a wall or skirt on the windward side(s) thereof with each wall or skirt extending from below to significantly above the waterline. This forms a calmer area of water on the leeward side(s) thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2008
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Inventor: Carl K. Towley, III
  • Publication number: 20100067987
    Abstract: This invention relates to a novel water ballasted wave attenuator that can be used to diminish or eliminate the impact of waves on shorelines or objects located in or on water bodies. A water ballasted wave attenuator comprising: (a) a hollow shell formed of reinforced concrete; (b) a flotation medium disposed in the upper region of the interior of the reinforced concrete shell (a); (c) an air chamber disposed below the flotation medium (b) in the lower region of the interior of the reinforced concrete shell; and, (d) at least one water vent located in the interior of the reinforced concrete shell (a), said vent connecting the interior of the shell with the exterior of the shell.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2009
    Publication date: March 18, 2010
    Applicant: I.M.F.S. International Marine Floatation Systems Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Wittenberg, Lockhart Gordon McCallum, Robert William Richard Field
  • Publication number: 20090304448
    Abstract: The invention relates to a floating pontoon body (13) of concrete, configured to be tied together with at least another pontoon body (11,12,13) in order to provide a interconnected floating body (10), where the pontoon body (13) comprises a deck slab (15) of concrete and at least down from the deck slab (15), along the periphery of the deck slab extending vertical walls (16,16?) of concrete, forming a hollow body, and where said pontoon element (13) along its side edges is configured with upper and lower pulling ducts intended to receive tensioning cables (14) or the like, intended to tie together two or more pontoon elements (11,12,13) both along their upper and lower side edges. At least the pulling ducts extending along the lower edges are configured in such way that it is possible to add on one or more new pontoon elements subsequent to a stage where two or more pontoon elements already are connected, tied together and installed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2007
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Inventor: Arild Øvretveit
  • Patent number: 7575396
    Abstract: A wave attenuation system having a floating member, at least one anchor member, and a plurality of interconnected wave attenuation members. The floating member has a generally flat top surface and a bottom surface. The top surface is configured to be disposed above a waterline and the bottom surface is configured to be disposed below the waterline. The anchor member is disposed below the water line and is interconnected with the floating member through at least one elastic member. The wave attenuation members are connected to the floating member and disposed below the bottom surface of the floating member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Assignee: Team Reil, Inc.
    Inventor: John W Cederlund
  • Patent number: 7572083
    Abstract: A floating breakwater system comprises a plurality of modules that are flexibly affixed together. The modules are affixed together to make up a plurality of vertical panels made up of the modules and the vertical panels themselves are flexibly affixed together in generally parallel relationship. Each individual module has a front face that faces the oncoming wave. There are at least two inlets in the front surface and corresponding outlets in the rear surface and passageways between the inlets and the outlets such that the water propelled by the wave passes through the at least two passageways. Each passageway is tapered inwardly in the direction of the flow of the water and each passageway has a main longitudinal axis. The respective axes are angled inwardly toward each other and converge at a point displaced rearwardly from the outlets so that the water that passes through the passageways intersect at the point and the energy of the wave is dissipated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Assignee: Elemental Innovation Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Bishop, Justin Bishop
  • Patent number: 7556451
    Abstract: A precast steel reinforced concrete bridge unit has an arcuate top wall integrally connecting opposite side walls, and a series of precast reinforced concrete counterforts are releasably connected to the top wall of the bridge unit at laterally spaced intervals. The counterforts have vertical end surfaces spaced from an end surface of the bridge unit, and end portions of reinforcing bars project from the vertical end surfaces of the counterforts. An end surface of the bridge unit is located on a horizontal casting surface, and a reinforced concrete headwall is cast on the casting surface with the reinforcing bars depending from the counterforts embedded in the concrete forming the headwall. After curing, the concrete headwall and counterforts are removed as a unit from the bridge unit to facilitate handling and shipping of the bridge unit and headwall and counterfort unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2009
    Assignee: Contech Bridge Solutions Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy J. Beach, Jeffrey Von Handorf
  • Patent number: 7527453
    Abstract: A ribbed module is provided having a ribbed exterior surface defining a plurality of grooves and channels along the surface for receiving water and directing the water in a direction different from that in which it is received to reduce wave energy. The module is formed as a single integral unit, or as a pair of halves having complementary mating locking elements which when engaged join the halves to form the ribbed module. A buoyancy system is also included to adjust the buoyancy of the module for positioning of same at a select position in the water. A plurality of modules are connected to provide breakwaters which reduce the effects of wave action on the shore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Assignee: Wave Dispersion Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Dennis G. Smith
  • Publication number: 20090110484
    Abstract: A surge breaker and barrier system comprising a surge breaker wall on a first surface of a concrete floatable structure, a surge barrier wall, substantially watertight, spaced from the breaker wall on the second surface of a concrete floatable structure and an anchor for fixing the floatable concrete structure or structures at a predetermined location.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2008
    Publication date: April 30, 2009
    Inventors: O. Wayne Fillingame, Saad Moustafa, William J. Dares, JR.
  • Patent number: 7524139
    Abstract: A connector for a wave attenuation system formed by connecting a plurality of panels in a structure positioned in a body of water; the system causes the dissipation of wave energy. Different configurations of panel, having different flow characteristics, used in the structure, and different types of connector used to connect panels, create different patterns of water flow within the structure, and contribute to wave energy dissipation. Units deployed in harbors, rivers, marinas and the like, help to prevent beach erosion and can facilitate beach nourishment. Embodiments can be utilized as a security barrier, preventing intrusion by trespassers, divers or various sized boats. A variety of sensors can be mounted to the structures, enabling detection of movement, chemical and biological agents, explosives or radiation. A submersible gate, comprising panels and a buoyancy control mechanism, allows for passage of boats and can be controlled remotely.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2009
    Assignee: Elemental Innovation, Inc.
    Inventor: Justin Bishop
  • Patent number: 7524140
    Abstract: An externally-adjustable module for a wave attenuation system formed by connecting a plurality of panels in a structure positioned in a body of water, causes the dissipation of wave energy. Different configurations of panel, having different flow characteristics, used in the structure, and different types of connector used to connect panels, create different patterns of water flow within the structure, and contribute to wave energy dissipation. Units deployed in harbors, rivers, marinas and the like, help to prevent beach erosion and can facilitate beach nourishment. Embodiments can be utilized as a security barrier, preventing intrusion by trespassers, divers or various sized boats. A variety of sensors can be mounted to the structures, enabling detection of movement, chemical and biological agents, explosives or radiation. A submersible gate, comprising panels and a buoyancy control mechanism, allows for passage of boats and can be controlled remotely.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2009
    Assignee: Elemental Innovation, Inc.
    Inventor: Justin Bishop