Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a method and a device for monitoring the water volume change, and a computer device and a storage medium. The method includes: acquiring a lake shoreline change sequence, a lake area change sequence, and a combined altimetry water level sequence; obtaining a lake water level sequence based on the combined altimetry water level sequence and the lake shoreline change sequence; calculating a first regressive relationship between the lake water volume and the lake water level based on the lake area change sequence and the lake water level sequence; and obtaining a lake water volume change sequence based on the lake water level sequence and the first regressive relationship between the lake water volume and the lake water level.

Abstract: Embodiments provide a quay wall attachment and a method for promoting biodiversity in a marine environment. The quay wall attachment includes a quad plate and a module. The quad plate is secured to a portion of a quay wall located underwater. The module includes a coral module, a fish module, a plant module, and combinations of the same. The coral module includes living corals and is secured to the quad plate. The fish module includes a hollow space and is secured to the quad plate. The plant module includes living marine plants and a hollow space, and is secured to the quad plate.

Abstract: An apparatus for impeding beach erosion includes a sea-facing barrier wall penetrated by large holes that allow water mixed with sand to enter the apparatus. Smaller holes provided in a rear wall allow the water to drain out after the entrained sand has settled. An underlying water reservoir fills with the drained water and gravitationally anchors the apparatus. The reservoir can be buried in the sand or placed on top thereof. The top of the barrier wall can be curved to direct water back toward the sea. The barrier wall can extend above the rear wall, and a backstop wall can form an additional sand-collecting chamber behind the rear wall. The walls can be made from plywood, metal, or plastic. Embodiments can be disassembled and/or folded for transport and storage. Internal reinforcing partition walls can extend between the barrier and rear walls. The apparatus can be further anchored by stakes.

Abstract: An apparatus for impeding beach erosion is light, inexpensive to install, and easy to remove. The apparatus includes a sea-facing barrier wall penetrated by large holes that allow water mixed with sand to enter the apparatus. After the entrained sand has settled, the water drains out through smaller holes provided in a rear wall. The top of the barrier wall can be curved to direct water back toward the sea. The barrier wall can extend above the rear wall, and a backstop wall can be provided that forms an additional sand-collecting chamber behind the rear wall. The walls can be made from plywood, metal, or plastic between one quarter and two inches thick. Embodiments can be disassembled and/or folded for transport and storage. Internal reinforcing partition walls can extend between the barrier and rear walls. The apparatus can be anchored by a base and/or anchoring stakes.

Abstract: A system for simultaneously driving multiple piles into the ground to create A-frame type structures that are anchored by piles running at angles to one other and to the ground. The system comprises a guide assembly and an actuator for moving piles through the guide assembly and the actuator (such as a meshing gear, ratchet or rollers) that engages a slots or teeth in the side portion of the pile to drive the piles into the ground.

Abstract: The subject invention pertains to a method and apparatus for inducing a lateral load for the purpose of increasing the force needed to lift a pile and/or increasing the downward and/or lateral load bearing capacity of a pile. The pile can be a driven or pushed displacement pile, a driven or pushed non-displacement pile, any type of bored pile, or any combination. In an embodiment, the subject invention can enhance pile performance by increasing (prestressing) permanently the lateral pressure between a pile and its surrounding soil. The subject invention can provide directional displacement through induced lateral loading of installed piles. Embodiments of the subject invention can incorporate embedded lateral loads in one or more piles.

Abstract: A wave energy conversion arrangement comprising—at least two modules (M1, M2) each of which comprises—at least one first float (P1) and at least one second float (P2) coupled mechanically with each other by means enabling for reciprocal and independent displacing of these floats in relation to each other over a predetermined length segment along separate straight lines parallel to each other; —at least one elementary energy conversion arrangement (7) using reciprocating movement of said at least one first float (P1) of a given module (M1, M2) relative to said at least one second float (P2) of this module (M1, M2), —connecting means (16) for alternative detachable connecting with each other—; —wherein said elementary energy conversion arrangements (7) of the adjoining modules (M1, M2) are energetically coupled with each other constituting a main energy conversion arrangement (15).

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.

Abstract: A beach erosion mitigation device is provided that includes an elongated, tubular member configured to be tethered to the shoreline and attenuate wave energy. The tubular member comprises a corrugated construction having enclosed air pockets that afford buoyancy. The ends of the tubular member are open, while along its length are disposed a set of overflow openings and a set of venturi openings. The venturi openings receive incoming water from the breaking wave and direct it axially along the interior of the tubular member. The overflow openings and the open ends allow water to escape prior to the next wave arrival. The device is placed alone, or in groups, along a shorefront to directly receive the energy of breaking waves. The energy thereof is attenuated by the structure of the device and via its redirection therethrough, thereby combating beach erosion caused by storm swells and high energy waves.

Abstract: A transportable wave suppressor and sediment collection (WSSC) system positionable in deep water along a coastline of a body of water, having a plurality of sections, each section further including a base portion having an upper floor portion, a forward wall, rear wall and two sidewalls and an open bottom end portion for being positioned on a floor of the body of water; at least a pair of raised elongated members positioned on the upper surface of the upper floor of the base; an upper portion to be secured to the base portion, the upper section having a angulated front wall to receive the flow of water through a plurality of flow pipes as the water engages each section; at least a pair of elongated openings in the upper portion for receiving the raised elongated members positioned on the upper surface of the upper wall of the base to define a means for securing the base to the upper portion.

Abstract: The invention has to do with a hydro-technique architectural system, capable to annihilate any tsunami waves size, destined in principle to the protection of people, animals, infrastructure and the existent architecture and the coastal environment of seas and oceans. The invention is composed of a PSS system made of one or many reinforced concrete tubes (preferable having a rectangular section) (A), for discharge/intake the tsunami wave (TW). PSS system contains an intake gate (B), for the (TW), an evacuation gate (C), and two floaters (D) and (E), permitting the (TW) to enter and exit in and out to the PSS system. The entire tsunami protection system, may be built using many PSS tubes with one or several intake and evacuation gates as necessary. The PSS system can also be used for protection against tidal waves and coastal erosions.

Abstract: A flexible wave-energy dissipation system includes: a plurality of brace units arranged along a horizontal direction and each including front and rear braces; a plurality of energy-dissipating posts each disposed between the front and rear braces of the corresponding brace unit and including a first spring unit connected to the front brace of the corresponding brace unit and a rod body connected to the first spring unit; a plurality of hanging cable units each connected to one front brace, one rear brace and one rod body, such that the posts are inclined upwardly and rearwardly; and an energy dissipation device including an energy-dissipating net unit disposed between two adjacent posts, and a plurality of second spring units connected between the net unit and the two adjacent posts.

Abstract: A barrier system and a method for dissipating energy in a body of fluid provides one or more barrier units each having an outer wall that defines a hollow inner chamber. Each barrier unit has a lower aperture and an upper aperture so fluid can flow in and out of the hollow inner chamber. Upward movement of fluid within the inner chamber is deflected inwardly and energy of the fluid is dissipated. The buoyancy of the barrier unit is controlled by a control system. Multiple barrier units can be used together to dissipate energy within a body of water over a large area. The barrier units can be easily assembled and deployed into a body of water. Where the barrier system is used in an ocean or another large body of water, the barrier units may be deployed from a ship, and may be anchored to the seafloor.

Abstract: A mobile marine barrier (1) comprising a base (2) and a hood (8) located at a distal end thereof is described. The hood (6) comprises a funnel (15) and a distal surface (18) located therein which allows the hood (6) to morph its shape, size and strength so as to give adaptable coastal protection against naturally occurring events. This is achieved by incorporating a telescopic funnel such that the length of the hood (6) and thus the area of its open end can be altered so as to vary the quantity of water directed towards the distal surface (18). The hood (16) may also comprise a mobile face (17) that forms part of variable volume chamber (26) located within the hood (8) which can be filled and emptied with fluids.

Abstract: A transportable wave suppressor and sediment collection (WSSC) system, including a method of installing same, the system installed to suppress wave action and provide land restoration along the shore of a body of water, such as a coastline, which includes a plurality of interconnected sections of the system, each section including a base, a forward wall, and a rear wall, having a plurality of fluid flow pipes extending from the forward wall to the rear wall, for allowing water including sediment to flow into the pipes at the forward wall and exit the pipes at the rear wall. There is further provided a one-way valve member at the rear wall exit of each pipe, so that water carrying sediment cannot return through the pipe as the wave action recedes from the coastline. There is provided a flow opening including a weir between multiple sections so that water can flow therethrough.

Abstract: An artificial ground reef has an attached implanting body to allow seaweed to readily attach and inhabit the artificial ground reef. The artificial ground reef has a main body having an upper member and lower member. Seawater flows in all directions through a plurality of through-holes on a lower part of the lower member. A detachment groove is formed on a plurality of locations of the upper face of the main body. An implanting body has a lower part detachably connected to the detachment groove. The implanting body is separated from the main body and connected detachably to the detachment groove of the main body when seaweed is attached and inhabiting the outer periphery. The main body and implanting body are porous concrete to aid with attachment and inhabitation of the seaweed.

Abstract: Protection of a shoreline from erosion caused by wave action and reclaiming lost land areas by use of one or more barriers having a porosity to allow a portion of the wave to pass through the barrier at a reduced force causing the slower water to release sediment behind the barriers. Further by redirecting and dissipating the full force of waves, additional damage can be prevented.

Abstract: An apparatus for rebuilding a sand beach along a shore line is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a generally hollow module having an interior space, the interior space adapted to be filled with ballast material, the module having a landward surface and a generally opposing seaward surface when positioned along the shore line, a flow through passage extending through the interior space between the landward surface and the seaward surface, the flow through passage permitting flow of sand laden water between the landward surface and the seaward surface, and a removable portal providing access to the interior space to permit introduction of ballast material into the interior space when the module is placed along the shore line.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for coastal protection, comprising at least one porous composite of stones and plastics which is fixed at a point.

Abstract: The present invention is directed toward various valving arrangements to control the flow of granular material. In one embodiment, a valve is provided which facilitates flow of the material in one direction, but resists flow in another direction. In another embodiment, a retaining wall is provided with a plurality of generally horizontal passageways, which, under normal circumstances, resist passage of the flowable granular material positioned therebehind and, under modified circumstances, can serve as relief valves to avoid pressure on the wall which might cause the wall to move in an undesirable manner. In a third embodiment, a plurality of valving units is provided for beach retention of sand through efficient separation of sand from incoming waves.

Abstract: A system and method for prevention of erosion utilizing a sub-tidal platform designed to be lodged at a beachhead. The sub-tidal platform will be placed under water and will contain at least one or a plurality of main trusses exhibiting a curvilinear convex shape and containing a plurality of gates and at least one or a plurality of intermittent trusses exhibiting a curvilinear convex shape and containing a plurality of gates which, when in their closed position, decelerate material entrained with liquid and allow for deposit of said material in the spaces formed by the trusses.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a breakwater, particularly, to a prefabricated breakwater which is assembled in a stepped manner, having the improvements in the construction workability and prevention of the marine pollution due to the permeability of ocean currents together with the original wave dissipation function for the protection of ships or all kinds of the establishments in the harbor.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a water movement device comprising a flexible wall (1) placed in water close to the surface, substantially vertically in a static rest state, made up of optionally perforated (5) massive unit blocks (4) assembled to one another in strings by cables (2, 3) on which said blocks (1) are threaded or on which said blocks are crimped, said cables comprising: a series of cables (2) disposed vertically (ZZ?) side by side, parallel to one another, and a second series of cables (3) disposed horizontally (XX?) one above another and in parallel, and said vertical cables (2) being suspended or tensioned at their top ends and/or respectively tensioned or moored at their bottom ends, and said blocks including empty orifices (5) passing through them between the front and rear faces (1-1, 1-2) of said wall (1), and/or empty spaces (7) between said blocks, such that said orifices (5) and/or empty spaces between said blocks (7), if any, confer overall porosity on said wall lying in the range 5%

Abstract: A bridge includes a bridge includes a pier, and a hooked collar at least formed on upstream surface of the pier. The anti-scour structure includes at least one hook extending upwardly. The hook configured for guiding water flow or downflow to move upwardly thereby protect river bed from being scoured.

Abstract: Swell attenuating device comprising a horizontal plate slightly immersed in the incident sea swell, this plate being held in position under the free surface of the water and presenting perpendicular upstream (12) and downstream (14) edges raised to a positive dimension above the free surface of the water, so that the incident sea swell cannot propagate freely over the plate, each of the upstream and downstream edges being extended at their base by a tab-shaped element (12A, 14A) of the same specific length, the assembly thus forming a symmetrically profiled structure in the form of a so-called “camel's back”, device wherein one at least of the two elements formed by the perpendicular upstream edge and the plate part, or raft (10A), laid between the upstream and downstream edges comprises orifices (20) over part of its surface.

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.

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.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an embankment block. There are provided a base frame 30 having a center with a through hole, and a plurality of connection members 32 that are downwardly extended from an outer surface of a rim of the base frame 30 wherein a front end of the same has an outwardly bent connection part 38. A plurality of through holes 34 are formed in a rim of the base frame 30 wherein said through holes 34 vertically pass through by the partition plate 36. The connection member 32 is widened in an outer direction of the rim of the base frame 30 and is slanted at a certain slope.

Abstract: A device is provided for preventing shoreline erosion and for rebuilding the sand beach along the shoreline of a large body of water. A series of the devices are placed in side-by-side relation essentially parallel to the shoreline. The device includes a hollow plastic structure fillable with a heavy material, such as cement. The structure has a trapezoidal configuration to lower the center of gravity of the device and includes inclining front and rear walls converging toward each other to the top wall. The hollow plastic structure includes a plurality of tubular members extending from the front wall to the rear wall. The front and rear walls have access apertures opening to the tubular members. The tubular members gradually taper from a predetermined diameter at the access apertures in the front wall to half of the predetermined diameter at the access apertures in the rear wall to reduce the velocity of the flow of water to the large body of water.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of reducing the effects of hydrodynamic forces of waves and water currents in coastal environments (e.g., oceans, and coastal, river, lake, and reservoir banks). The apparatus is an oysterbreak having two basic designs adapted to allow for the attachment of oysters and other bio-fouling marine organisms, using the least amount of material. In one embodiment, the oysterbreak comprises a support structure and plurality of slats (i.e., relatively planar sections or surfaces) having growth layers made from tubing coated with a material capable of inducing aquatic sessile organism attachment and growth. In another embodiment, the oysterbreak comprises a plurality (e.g., two, three, four, five, six, etc.) of growth layers of regular polygonal-shaped members made from a material capable of inducing aquatic sessile organism attachment and growth that when stacked, form a relatively portable, breakwater module.

Abstract: A constructing method by using waste tires includes cutting sidewalls from waste tires; connecting multiple waste tires in series together by the sidewalls to form a layer of waste tires; filling the waste tires with ballast; and stacking another layer of waste tires on the previous layer with a staggered arrangement. An end member, being composed of a cut waste tire with two ends connected to an outer periphery of an unbroken waste tire, is provided at an end portion of the layers. Whereby, the construction built from waste tires can be used in projects such as a protection slope, road berm, riverbank, riverbed, etc., and has a good strength and a low cost.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a silt restoration device comprising a vertical support member having an upper end and a lower end, wherein the upper end is connected to an upper horizontal support member with the longitudinal length of the vertical support member being substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal length of the upper horizontal support member. At least one tire will be positioned on the vertical support member below the upper horizontal support member in a substantially vertical position. The tire will have a tread surface and a center space, wherein the vertical support member will impale the tread surface of the tire at two opposed points substantially along a diameter of the tire and substantially at a midpoint of a width of the tread surface.

Abstract: A barrier for reducing erosion along shorelines includes a barrier body formed as a unitary, molded plastic structure. In one embodiment, the barrier body has at least one elongate passage extending through it, between oppositely disposed first and second sides, and an interior reservoir. A port formed into the barrier body communicates with the interior reservoir to facilitate filling the reservoir with material to thereby add weight to the barrier. The barrier further includes at least one anchor formed into a side of the barrier body and associated with the passage to control shrinkage of the barrier body as it is being molded. In another embodiment, a method of making the barrier body includes placing plastic material in a mold, manipulating the mold to distribute the plastic material within the mold and thereby form the barrier body as a unitary piece, and reducing the shrinkage of the molded barrier body with the anchor.

Abstract: The method and apparatus for shoreline land mass reclamation which includes replacement of at least one groyne section along a shoreline wherein the section includes a pair of spaced stanchions which are connected by at least one linkage member which supports vertically extending baffle elements and wherein the at least one linkage member is piovtably connected such that the spaced stanchions may be vertically adjustable relative to one another.

Abstract: A method of making artificial barrier islands or break waters. The method consists of driving a series of piles in the shape of the island, attaching a number of wire mesh sections, to form a fence around the perimeter of the piles, connecting the tops of the piles with cables, and then filling the formed enclosure with riprap (rock) material. Once the rock has reached the water surface, it is covered with suitable soil and vegetation to create the island. The piles and mesh are hidden below the water surface and the formed island takes on a natural appearance. In this way, the artificial island is a barrier to storms, thus protecting the shoreline and wetlands from erosion. Moreover, the artificial island creates an ideal habitat for birds, fish, reptiles and amphibians. In certain environments one island can protect approximately 10 times the amount of shoreline that lies behind it.

Abstract: An erosion control method and apparatus provides multiple concrete bodies for erosion control that each include tubular hollow bore sections. Each section has front and rear openings that communicate with the hollow bore. Each body is an elongated tapered pile-like member. The plurality of the concrete bodies can be installed side by side using a jetting pump that preferably occupies the bore, and with tongue and groove connections interlocking the bodies upon assembly. A plurality of the concrete bodies can be placed side by side to form a bulkhead or breakwater to protect a shoreline, bank, island or the like.

Abstract: A method for killing and removing mold and other biological contaminants from structural surfaces. The contaminated surface is enclosed and isolated in a containment area from other noncontaminated surfaces. A biocidal agent is applied to the contaminated surface to kill the contaminant. After the biocidal agent dryes, the contaminant is encapsulated. The contaminant and encapsulant are then removed from the surface by propelling frozen carbon dioxide pellets against the surface at a high velocity. The removed contaminants are collected and disposed of with a high volume air extractor equipped with filters. The containment area may be treated with ultraviolet radiation to kill any remaining contaminants which may be airborne or adhere to the containment area surfaces. A biocidal sealer may be applied to the formerly contaminated surface to prevent regrowth of the contaminant.

Abstract: A foundation comprising one or more layers or mattresses of tires, and a fill material provided within and/or between tires of each of the mattresses. The fill material is preferably a relatively coarse aggregate and provides a porous bed having relatively high drainage capacity. The lowermost mattress is typically wrapped in a porous sheet such as a geofabric cloth which is designed to allow the passage of water across the lowermost mattress whilst preventing the ingress of relatively finer material into the fill material and which can otherwise lead to degeneration of the foundation. At least some of the tires typically also have an upper sidewall removed therefrom.

Abstract: An erosion control device is a panel formed of spaced horizontal and spaced vertical rods joined together to create a frame upon which is mounted a sheet of silt fencing material. A plurality of such panels may be rotatably joined together to form different configurations of erosion control fencing. The panels are reusable and the silt fencing material may be replaced thereon. The silt fencing material may be used to form a pocket for sand, thus forming a sandbag at the base of the panel for controlling water flow. The panel may have affixed thereto at the base a narrow metallic strip for cutting into the ground as the panel is forced downward thereon.

Abstract: An apparatus and system for dissipating water wave energy and for shoreline control including a module with a generally hollow body, a pair of opposed flanges attached to adjacent corners of the body, a pair of axially aligned mounting apertures in the flanges for connecting the body to similar bodies for forming a wave energy dissipation system, and a recess disposed between the flanges. Each recess contains a plurality of boundary layer interrupting projections for substantially disrupting any laminar flow of water past the surface and creating turbulent flow.

Abstract: A sediment control barrier, comprising a ground contacting surface having a length suitable for controlling fluid flow across ground, barrier material extending perpendicularly from the ground contacting surface, means for securing the ground contacting surface to the ground; and the barrier material being structured to conform to a ground contour. A sediment control barrier is proposed that has slots to enable flexing of the barrier material. Another sediment control barrier is proposed having a graded permeability from a first, lower, non-zero permeability adjacent the ground contacting surface to a second, higher, permeability away from the ground contacting surface.

Abstract: A block for constructing a breakwater comprises a front wall in which horizontal projections are formed with transverse rectangular-shaped holes therebetween. Side walls extend from both ends of the front wall. A partition wall in which multiple holes are formed to communicate with the transverse rectangular-shaped holes is jointed to the side walls at both ends and spaced from the front wall. A detention area is defined by the front wall, partition wall and side walls for receiving the overflow waves through the transverse rectangular-shaped holes in the front wall.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a flow permeable port embankment, mainly constructed by multiple waste tires which are arranged in a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction. The port embankment includes multiple vertically arranged tires and multiple horizontally arranged tires that are combined with each other by fastening of cables. The horizontally arranged tires are poured with concrete. The port embankment can use a wave energy reduction device of central holes of the multiple vertically arranged tires, so that when a big wave or surge rushes into the port embankment through the central holes of the vertically arranged tires, the energy thereof is counteracted naturally and completely, so that the region in the port embankment is calm, thereby preventing ships in the port embankment from hitting each other.

Abstract: The present invention is a general structural member assembly. A basic structural unit of the present invention has two adjacent shafts, both further having a cross sectionally triangular shape with a longitudinal side completely or substantially mostly removed to form legs. The leg ends are formed or machined such that they present two outward surfaces generally parallel to the open face of a first adjacent shaft. The outward surfaces of the leg ends are then positionally fixed, albeit with some flexible movement in some embodiments, to generally have a parallel and longitudinal interface with the longitudinal outside edges of a solid side of a second shaft. A stacked assembly may be formed from the structural members capable of sediment retention or accumulation.

Abstract: An engineered log jam for controlling stream flow characteristics is formed from multiple layers of logs. A first layer intended to be placed parallel to stream flow consists of two or more generally parallel logs. In normal use these would be anchored to the stream bottom. A second layer of logs is placed on top of the first. This also consists of a plurality of spaced apart logs crossing the first layer. The second layer logs are angled with respect to each other to control and direct water flow passing over and through the structure. A third layer of spaced apart logs crosses the second layer logs and further acts to direct water flow. Additional layers may be used as might be dictated by the use environment. The logs are permanently joined to each other at the points of crossing.

Abstract: An integral concrete body for erosion control includes three separate sections of differing configuration. The sections include a lower tapered section that is in the form of an elongated tapered pile-like member. The upper section of the concrete body is generally rectangular. A transitional section that is also tapered forms a connection between the upper and lower portions of the concrete body. The plurality of the concrete bodies can be installed side by side with tongue and groove connections interlocking the bodies upon assembly. A plurality of the concrete bodies can be placed side by side to form a bulkhead or breakwater. In one embodiment, each concrete body can be comprised of separate connectable members. Anchors can be used to support the concrete bodies laterally, to prevent tilting or tipping when exposed to erosion, wind, or wave action.

Abstract: An apparatus for use in erosion control comprising a primary member and a secondary member pivotally connectable to the primary member to form a unit. The unit can be connected to another like unit to form a protective network of such units.

Abstract: An offshore reef assembly includes semi-cylindrical reef members extending generally perpendicular to the shore line and arranged in upper and lower tiers so that the open side of the upper tier faces downwardly and the open side of the lower tier faces upwardly. The semi-cylindrical members in the upper tier are offset from those of the lower tier to divide and deflect vertically moving water laterally through an ogee curvature from one reef member to a laterally offset and inverted reef member, thus dividing and dissipating the kinetic energy of the water to cause the deposition of sand and particulates on the bottom around the reef assembly. The reef assembly is inexpensive both to construct and install.

Abstract: WavBrakerSteps is a hydrodynamic structure comprising a main form (20, 22, 24, 26), a series of inclined upward ramped steps in the shape of a sine wave curve. WavBrakerSteps redirect and dissipate the relentless attacks by energizes and forces of sea waves, wind waves, tidal forces, ship and boat wakes. These energies and forces scour and erode the base or toe, the supporting structures, of waterfront bulkheads, seawalls and seacoasts. The action by waves flowing upward and then downward over the inclined, curved and ramped WavBrakerSteps prevents undercutting, undermining and sinking from occurring. These natural actions protect the beach environment.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of reducing the effects of hydrodynamic forces of waves and water currents in coastal environments (e.g., oceans, and coastal, river, lake, and reservoir banks). The apparatus is an oysterbreak having two basic designs adapted to allow for the attachment of oysters and other bio-fouling marine organisms, using the least amount of material. In one embodiment, the oysterbreak comprises a support structure and plurality of slats (i.e., relatively planar sections or surfaces) having growth layers made from tubing coated with a material capable of inducing aquatic sessile organism attachment and growth. In another embodiment, the oysterbreak comprises a plurality (e.g., two, three, four, five, six, etc.) of growth layers of regular polygonal-shaped members made from a material capable of inducing aquatic sessile organism attachment and growth that when stacked, form a relatively portable, breakwater module.