DEVICE AND METHOD FOR FLOOR PROTECTION, COASTAL PROTECTION, OR SCOUR PROTECTION

The invention relates to a device and a method for flood protection, coastal protection, or scour protection. Such devices and methods are used, for example, to protect coastlines, islands, structures built at and in the ocean, canals, harbors, and bottoms of bodies of water. Their essential task consists in guaranteeing lasting protection against the effects of waves, storm tides, currents, and tidal action. Devices known according to the state of the art are dunes, dikes, revetments, wave breakers, groins, pile dams, flood barriers, and approach piers. A disadvantage of these devices is that because of the currents and forces that act on them, they are constantly exposed to destruction, and this requires complicated repair work.

Another disadvantage is that the known protective measures are complicated, but nevertheless often insufficient with regard to their protective effect. For example, groins often cannot stop the loss of land, and have disadvantageous effects on ecosystems due to their effect on water flow. So-called tetrapods, heavy concrete parts that serve as wave breakers, also have significant disadvantages. These structures produce harmful currents that prevent sedimentation of sand and thus actually accelerate the loss of land. In the offshore sector, for example in the case of monopiles of wind energy systems, it is the state of the art to pile up approximately 500 to 1000 metric tons of stones as scour protection. After the systems are decommissioned in about 20 years, this pile of stones will represent a dangerous barrier for the fishing industry.

In the sector of coastal protection, methods for shoreface nourishment are used, so that waves run up onto the land surface at as flat an angle as possible. However, these methods are connected with high costs, because the sand is constantly carried away by the water, and therefore nourishment has to take place on a continuing basis.

It is therefore the task of the invention to offer a device and a method for flood protection, coastal protection, or scour protection, which offer durable, cost-advantageous, and, in this connection, effective protection.

This task is accomplished in that the device for flood protection and coastal protection has one or more elastic panels as well as fastening means for fixing the panels in place at the locations to be protected. The back or underside of the panels serves as a contact surface for the ground or the subsurface, and the front or the top of the panels serves as a run-up surface for water or waves, or, in the offshore sector, as protection against eroding sand eddies and water eddies. In this connection, the flexibility of the panels has multiple advantages. For one thing, the panels adapt themselves to the course of the coastline or to uneven areas of the ground, and for another, the panel can absorb the energy of the waves and eddies because of its flexibility and elastic properties, and is therefore more resistant and durable than known, rigid devices. The device can furthermore be walked on by people and driven on by vehicles. Another advantage is that the device is not hazardous for persons who are swimming or in the event of a collision with water vehicles. The elastic panels can be composed of one layer or can consist of multiple layers. The elastic panels can be laid directly onto a ground surface, for example in beach regions that are at risk of flooding. They can also lie below the surface, in that they are first laid and afterward, sand nourishment is carried out, so that they lie invisibly underneath the sand or ground surface. In this connection, the sand or ground surface can be situated on land or also under the surface of the water or ocean. The device can be used to protect structures close to the coast or bodies of water, or also as scour protection for offshore structures. Scour is understood to be erosion phenomena of a water-covered bottom caused by currents. In the offshore sector, the proposed scour protection has the advantage that is can be easily removed again and leaves an ocean bottom free of barriers.

In a preferred embodiment, the elastic panels consist of rubber. Rubber is a particularly light, resistant, durable, and recyclable material. A significant advantage of rubber is its resistance to salt water, i.e. no corrosion occurs. Because of the long durability of the material and its resistance, the protective device is practically maintenance-free. The rubber can furthermore be produced in environmentally friendly manner, from natural rubber. It has been shown that particularly good protection is achieved if the panel has a thickness of about 2 cm. Suitable elastic panels are available with a surface area of about a square meter, or as rolls having a width of several meters and a length of up to several hundred meters. They can be transported to the locations to be protected as rolls, in a manner, and can be unrolled and attached there.

The elastic panels are connected with one another by means of vulcanization, or mechanically, by means of connecting means. In this way, larger sections of a region at risk can be protected, in other words up to several square kilometers or more. An optional water-tight connection of the panels, such as that formed when connecting them by means of vulcanization, for example, prevents the subsurface from becoming saturated or washed away.

The flexibility or the rigidity of the panels is improved, as necessary, in that the elastic panels have one or more inserts, particularly of woven textile, or a reinforcement of steel rods, steel wires, or steel cables in the material. The panels can then furthermore absorb greater pressure forces and tensile forces, and can also be walked on or driven on.

In order to prevent excessive deformation of the elastic panels by means of suction forces of retreating water, additional, external reinforcement elements are provided for the elastic panels, in addition to the reinforcing woven fabric or inserts made of steel as mentioned above. Another possibility consists in reinforcing the elastic panels with concrete beams. In this connection, the panels can be reinforced in one direction by the inner steel reinforcement, and additionally, in the other direction, by the concrete beams disposed on the surface. Because of its weight, the concrete beam can also serve as a fastening means.

The elastic panels are fixed in place at the locations to be protected, by means of fastening means. This can be, for example, a side of a dike, a dune, or an escarpment of a coast that faces the water. Earth screws, ground spikes, or cement wash anchors, by means of which the panels are securely anchored in the subsurface, are particularly suitable as fastening means. For this purpose, the elastic panels have openings through which the fastening means are passed. The openings are then covered by a head of the earth screws, ground spikes, or cement wash anchors, in each instance. However, the fastening means can also lie on the elastic panels, such as concrete beams or filled-in sand.

Particularly stable anchoring is possible by means of a cement wash anchor. This comprises a pipe having a pipe plate disposed at the upper end, which plate has a hole for the upper pipe opening as well as an upper inside thread for a closure screw having a head plate. At the lower end of the pipe, there is a drill crown. A liquid cement suspension or another binder is pressed through the pipe, and the cement wash anchor is driven into the ground as this happens. The cement that exits at the lower pipe opening surrounds the pipe and anchors it in the ground, with shape fit, after the cement has hardened. Afterwards, the elastic panel is laid over the pipe plate of the cement wash anchor with a hole, and the closure screw is screwed into the inside thread of the pipe through the hole. The elastic panel or the elastic panels connected with one another are thereby braced between pipe plate and head plate, in water-tight manner, and securely anchored in the ground.

In order to prevent backwashing of the device, a sheet pile wall, angled away relative to the panels, is provided at its two lateral ends, in each instance. In this connection, the sheet pile wall can be a separate part set onto the panels. It can also be formed as an end section of the elastic panels themselves, which section has a curvature at its beginning and thereby extends away from the water in the direction toward the land side.

One or more ground panels disposed essentially horizontally and connected with the device are provided as an additional fastening means. The ground panels serve as a large-area contact for the device and thus prevent it from sinking into the subsurface. The ground panels can lie directly on the ground surface or can be disposed within the subsurface. The elastic panels are furthermore connected with ground panels by means of support elements that run horizontally or at a slant. The support elements thus fix the elastic panels in place in a position that is vertical or inclined relative to the ground panel, in that a self-supporting frame is formed. In the case of this embodiment, it is therefore not necessary that the panels lie on the subsurface with their back when they are installed. The support elements have the purpose of preparing the device for sand nourishment and preventing additional and double work afterwards. Another advantage consists in that the ground panels and the support elements absorb pressure forces and suction forces that act on the elastic panels. Support elements that run in the longitudinal direction also absorb forces that run in this direction. In total, the device is therefore stabilized by means of ground panels and support elements.

Further fixation and stabilization of the device results from the fact that the ground panels have anchor elements for being anchored in the subsurface.

The elastic panels have contact elements that run along their lower edge, which elements are preferably configured as approximately T-shaped profiles in vertical cross-section. The contact elements serve for fixation and stabilization of the device.

The elastic panels have depressions or elevations on their top, in order to hold sand or other ground material in place. In this way, removal of sand due to aeolian transport is prevented or reduced. The depressions or elevations can be formed by an additional layer that is applied by means of gluing or vulcanization. Alternatively, the elastic panel can also be formed in one piece, whereby the depressions and elevations are cut out of the material of the elastic panel.

The elastic panels can have water drain openings that go through them. In this way, water does not collect above the elastic panels during high tide, but rather the water runs off into the ground through the panels. In this way, it is prevented that the water forms a liquid suspension with the sand, which could then easily be washed away. Therefore the sand remains lying above the elastic panels and serves as additional protection. In addition, a water-permeable, sand-impermeable filter layer, particularly a nonwoven fabric layer, is provided, preferably on the underside of the elastic panels. In this way, sand is prevented from being washed along with water as it passes through the water drain openings. Polyesters such as PET or PTFE, for example, are possible materials for this.

In another preferred embodiment, the device has a weight element, preferably made of concrete, at an end region of the elastic panels that are connected with one another, in order to pull or press the elastic panels downward. The weight element can be attached at an end region that faces the water side or at the lateral end regions. In this way, the surface area formed by the connected panels is curved, and a particularly advantageous hydrodynamic shape is formed, which serves as a run-up surface for the waves. The force of the waves is therefore absorbed and carried upward. If the ground underneath the weight element sinks away or is washed away, the weight element, together with the panel, moves downward, and therefore the protective effect is restored.

In another preferred embodiment, the elastic panels that are connected with one another are configured as at least one trough-like depression that is open toward the top, which depression is filled with sand and/or other material. As in the case of sand nourishment, the sand is introduced into the trough-like depression, whereby the surface of the introduced sand lies above that of the normal water level. Since this causes a level, horizontal surface to form, the water does not have any point of attack for carrying sand away in the event of a storm tide or flood. In this way, the sand is reliably prevented from being washed away. A cost-advantageous structure is obtained in that the walls of the trough-like depression are formed as a folding or folds of the elastic panels.

At its bottom, the trough-like depression has elevations that extend from its wall that faces the water toward the land side. In this way, an effect is achieved that is also supposed to be achieved by groins, in principle, namely that of preventing removal of sand due to lateral currents. However, the elevations according to the invention are more effective, since they are situated completely within the trough and are situated in the sand, in other words the water does not wash around them directly. The elevations are also configured, in cost-advantageous manner, as a folding or folds of the elastic panels. The elastic panels that form the trough-like depression are have water drain openings and a filter layer, particularly a nonwoven fabric layer, in order to be water-permeable and sand-impermeable. As a result, water that collects in the trough-like depression drains off through the water drain openings, without the sand being washed away with the water, since the sand is held back by the nonwoven fabric layer that acts as a filter.

In another preferred embodiment, a water-permeable, sand-impermeable filter layer, particularly a nonwoven fabric, is provided on one or more end regions of the elastic panels that are connected with one another, on which layer an armoring is preferably disposed. In this way, it is possible to attach and secure the ground in the region of the filter layer and, without interrupting the seepage line of the water. The armoring serves to stabilize the filter layer, thereby making it possible to walk on this layer.

The invention furthermore comprises a method for flood protection, coastal protection, or scour protection. In the method, a device according to claim 1, having one or more elastic panels, is fixed in place at the locations to be protected, by means of fastening means. To carry out this method, the device can furthermore have characteristics that are claimed in claims 2 to 17, in each instance.

Preferred embodiments of the invention are described as examples, making reference to a drawing, whereby additional advantageous details can be derived from the figures of the drawing.

In this connection, functionally equivalent parts are provided with the same reference symbols.

The figures of the drawing show, in detail:

FIG. 1 a vertical section of the device 1 with a coastal section 12;

FIG. 2 a detail view of the device 1 from FIG. 1, in vertical section;

FIG. 3 a vertical section of the device 1 with a sand fill 19;

FIG. 4 a front view of the device 1;

FIG. 5 a vertical section of a second embodiment of the device 1 with a coastal section 12;

FIG. 6 a vertical section of a third embodiment of the device 1, for use in an inland body of water;

FIG. 7 a top view of a fourth embodiment of the device 1 with sheet pile walls 21, 23;

FIG. 8 a detail view of a fifth embodiment of the device 1 with a helical spring 32, in vertical section;

FIG. 9 a detail view of a sixth embodiment of the device 1 with a tension spring 33, in vertical section;

FIG. 10 a detail view of a seventh embodiment of the device 1 with a pipe 48, in vertical section;

FIG. 11
a an overall view of an eighth embodiment of the device 1 with a nonwoven fabric 63 and an armoring 60 disposed on top of that, in vertical section;

FIG. 11
b a detail view of the nonwoven fabric with the armoring disposed on top of it, from FIG. 4a, in vertical section;

FIG. 12 a perspective view of a three-layer elastic panel 75;

FIG. 13
a an overall view of a device 1 with a three-layer elastic panel 75, according to FIG. 1, in vertical section;

FIG. 13
b a detail view A according to FIG. 13a, in vertical section;

FIG. 14 an overall view of another embodiment of the device 1 with a concrete element 73, in vertical section;

FIG. 15 a schematic overall view of another embodiment of the device (1) with a trough-like cavity (100), in vertical section;

FIG. 16
a a schematic top view of the trough-like depression 100;

FIG. 16
b a schematic view of the trough-like depression 100 from FIG. 2a, in vertical section;

FIG. 17 a detail view of another embodiment of the device 1 with a cement wash anchor 207, in vertical section;

FIG. 18 an overall view of another embodiment of the device 1 with a beach wall 300, in vertical section;

FIG. 19 an overall view of another embodiment of the device 1 as scour protection, with a monopole 301, in vertical section;

FIG. 20 an overall view of another embodiment of the device 1 without sand covering, in vertical section; and

FIG. 21 an overall view of another embodiment of the device 1 with concrete beams, in vertical section.

FIG. 1 shows a vertical section of the device 1 according to the invention for flood protection, coastal protection, and scour protection. Furthermore, the transition region between water and land of a coastal section 10, 12, 13, in which the device 1 is disposed, is shown schematically.

The device 1 has multiple elastic panels 2 made of natural rubber or hard rubber, which are connected with one another in water-tight manner (not shown). The panels 2 have a thickness of about 2 cm. They are particularly light, resistant, durable, while they can also be recycled. Rubber panels suitable for the device 1 are commercially available in various thicknesses and with textile inserts, in one piece, as rolls having a length of several meters to several hundred meters.

In FIG. 1, such a panel 2 is shown in cross-section. With their back side 17, they lie on the sand surface, while the front side 16 faces the water side. A water surface is indicated with the reference number 10, while the ground surface, composed of sand, is indicated with the number 12. The ground surface 12 is partly situated underneath the water surface 10, and partly above it. Behind the water, a sand dune formation is shown, the embankment incline 12 of which rises steeply, and finally reaches an escarpment 13. In the event of flood or a storm tide, the water level 10 can rise. The surface of such a higher water level is indicated with the number 11 and shown with a broken line. Without a protective device 1, the waves constantly hit the sand dune during a storm tide, and in the long term, this would be connected with further breakage of the edge 13 and finally, a loss of land. The device 1 prevents this, in that the front side 16 of the panels 2 serves as a run-up surface for water 11 or waves. In this way, the rubber panels 2 can absorb the energy of the waves 11, by means of their elastic properties, and thus protect the ground surface 12 that lies behind them from being washed away by the water. Because of their material properties, the panels 2 can withstand a pressure of more than 1 t/m². Because of their resilience, they are furthermore significantly more stable than known, rigid revetments, and also do not require any repairs. They adapt to uneven areas of the ground surface 12 and to the course of the coastline due to their elasticity. The panels 2 are securely anchored in the subsurface 12 by means of earth screws 3. Instead of earth screws 3, ground spikes, sand anchors, or other fastening means can also be used.

As is shown in FIG. 1, the panels 2 have an angle of inclination relative to the horizontal. In this way, a slanted run-up surface 16 for incoming waves is formed, and thus the energy of the incoming water is directed upward and dissipated. In this connection, the angle of inclination can be adapted to different ground conditions or embankment angles. However, if the angle of inclination of the dune is very small, a water-permeable but sand-impermeable three-layer embodiment of the panel 75 is advantageous, as shown in FIG. 12.

The panels 2 are let into the subsurface, composed of sand, by about 1.50 m, while the other region is exposed and therefore visible. This ratio can also be adapted to different ground conditions or coastal conditions. In total, the panels have a height of about 3 to 6 meters. The panels can also be significantly higher and thus be adapted to different tidal amplitudes.

In order for the device 1 to be esthetically integrated into the surroundings, the surface of the front side 16 of the elastic panels 2 has a coating of sand. In this way, the panels 2 are optically inconspicuous and cannot be differentiated from the sand dune. The coating of sand can be applied in such a manner, for example, that an adhesive is applied to the rubber surface 16, and then sprinkled with sand. Instead of a coating with sand, the surface can also have a paint layer, depending on the surroundings, for example sand-colored, earth-colored, or green. Likewise, the device 1 can be covered by filled-in sand and therefore not visible.

In FIG. 1, the use of the device 1 within the scope of coastal protection is shown. It should be emphasized that the invention is not restricted to this, but rather that numerous other possibilities of use exist.

For example, the device 1 can also be used as flood protection for inland bodies of water. Regions at risk of flooding in the vicinity of rivers are generally protected by levees. Often, however, these levees cannot withstand floods that last a long time. The reason for this lies in the fact that over time, the levees are saturated with water, and thus lose their stability. Using the device 1, the levees can now be protected against saturation, in that the panels 2 are disposed on the side of the levee that faces the water. The water cannot penetrate the device 1, since the panels 2 consist of rubber and are connected with one another in water-tight manner, for example by means of vulcanization. The angle of inclination of the panels 2 approximately corresponds to the embankment angle of the levee.

*If natural grass is desired as a surface, the panels 2 can be provided with holes, so that they become water-permeable. About 5 to 8 cm above the panels, a non-rusting woven net should be put into place, the whole thing should be filled with clay soil, and seeded with grass, so that the grass roots grow through the woven net and the water-permeable panel. This layer then forms a very tear-resistant levee surface.

Another use consists in that the device 1 shown in FIG. 1 is used to seal the bed of shipping channels, in order to reduce their water loss due to leakage.

The device 1 can furthermore be used to protect the bank region of rivers. In order to restore the natural habitat in the region of rivers, but also for reasons of flood protection, rivers are increasingly being restored to the natural state. They then no longer run straight but rather curved in certain sections. In the regions of these curves, currents occur that can lead to undercutting of the banks and therefore have to be secured with revetments composed of stone. The endangered bank regions can be better protected by means of the invention, since the device 1 is simpler to install and furthermore is more durable and more cost-advantageous.

FIG. 2 shows a detail view of the device from FIG. 1 in vertical section. A region of the elastic panel 2 made of rubber is shown, the back side 17 of which lies on the subsurface, and the front side 16 of which faces the water. The panel 2 has a thickness of about 2 cm and has multiple textile inserts 14, for example, in order to improve the stability and flexibility of the panel 2. The panel 2 can therefore be exposed to stresses of more than 1 t/m².

In the region shown in FIG. 2, the panel 2 has an opening 8 through which an earth screw 3 having a thread 15 is passed. The core diameter of the earth screw 3 amounts to approximately 25 mm. The panel 2 is securely fixed in place in the subsurface by means of the earth screw 3. The opening 8 within the panel 2 is sealed off, in water-tight manner, by the head 9 of the earth screw 3, so that the subsurface does not become saturated. Furthermore, a washer 4 is provided between the head 9 of the earth screw 3 and the front side 16 of the panel 2, which washer is fixed in place by the head 9. A reinforcement that consists of a woven fabric insert, for example, serves to reinforce the panel 2 against strong suction forces caused by water flowing away. In this way, excessive deformation of the panel 2 and cavity formation at the back side 17 are avoided.

FIG. 3 shows a vertical section of the device 1 as in FIG. 1, in the transition region between water surface 10 and ground surface 12 of a sand dune formation. However, a further use of the invention is shown. In contrast to FIG. 1, after the device 1 is set up, sand fill 19 has been added. As a result, the ground surface 12 runs at a flatter angle toward the sand dune on the water side. The device 1 is situated completely in the subsurface, because it is covered by the sand 19 that has been filled in.

As a result, the sand dune formation as such is stabilized, because sand cannot slide away toward the water side. A further protective effect results if the water level 11, shown with a broken line, rises in the event of a flood or a storm tide. At first, protection is also provided by the filled-in sand 19. If the filled-in sand 9 has been completely washed away during the course of the storm tide, the device 1 takes over the protective function completely, specifically as shown in FIG. 1. Therefore no loss of land takes place.

FIG. 4 shows a front view of the device 1. An elongated panel 2 made of rubber is shown, which is affixed in the subsurface with earth screws 3, at regular intervals. If the length or height of a panel 2 is not sufficient, then multiple panels 2 can also be connected with one another (not shown), specifically at the sides or at the upper or lower sides. These are then connected with one another in water-tight manner, by means of vulcanization or mechanical connecting means. In this manner, coastal sections or dike/levee sections or the like, of any length or height, can be protected.

The elastic panels 2 at the two outer ends of the device 1 have a curvature and therefore extend away from the water in the direction toward the land side. They therefore form a sheet pile wall 21, which prevents backwashing of the device 1.

FIG. 5 shows a vertical section of a different embodiment of the device 1 with a coastal section. In this embodiment, a horizontally disposed ground panel 6, which is connected with the back side 17 of the elastic panel 2 at its own edge, is additionally provided as a fastening means. The elastic panel 2 is furthermore connected with the ground panel 6 by means of support elements 5 that run at a slant and horizontally. The support elements 5 fix the elastic panels 2 in place in a position at an incline relative to the ground panel 6. Furthermore, another ground panel 6 is disposed vertically. The support elements 5 and ground panels 6 thus form a stable frame. The device 1 is self-supporting because of the frame, i.e. the back side 17 of the elastic panel 2 does not have to lie on the ground surface 12 when the panel is installed. The horizontal ground panel 6 furthermore has anchor elements 7 that fix its position in the subsurface in place.

Along its lower edge, the elastic panel 2 has a profile 18 that runs approximately in T-shape, as a contact element. The profile 18 closes off the panel 2 in a downward direction, and anchors it in the ground.

The ground panel 6 and the profile 18 furthermore serve as a large-area contact for the device 1, which prevents it from sinking in. Another advantage consists in that the ground panel 6, the support elements 5, the profile 18, and the anchor elements 7 absorb pressure forces and tensile forces that act on the elastic panel 2, and therefore increase the stability of the device 1 as a whole.

In FIG. 5, the course of the ground surface 12 of a sand dune formation is shown after a storm tide. As a result, land has been lost and a steep escarpment 13 has been formed. In such a case, the device can be used as an installation aid for subsequent nourishment of sand. For this purpose, the device 1, as shown in FIG. 5, can be set up in the region in front of the escarpment 13. This is possible in fast and cost-advantageous manner, since all the components of the device 1 are ready-made parts. The water-tight connection of the panels 2 takes place, in this embodiment, not by means of vulcanization, but rather by means of mechanical connectors (not shown).

After the device 1 has been set up, sand nourishment takes place. The course of the surface after such sand nourishment is shown with a broken line 20. The device 1 is afterwards completely covered with sand 19, and is no longer visible. It then serves to fix the sand fill 19 in place and secure it. Additional sand fills 19 furthermore do not have to be provided, or have to be repeated less frequently, and this results in lower costs.

The embodiment of the device 1 as shown permits not only flood protection and coastal protection, but also other uses. It can be used, for example, as a support to prevent the movement of sand dunes.

FIG. 6 shows a vertical section of a third embodiment of the device 1, which is particularly suitable for use at an inland body of water. Here, support elements 5 that run horizontally, vertically, and at a slant form a stable frame, thereby making the device 1 self-supporting. The panels 2 do not demonstrate any incline and are attached to the frame formed of support elements 5 in a vertical arrangement. Furthermore, firm foundations 22 made of concrete are provided in the ground 12. The support elements are releasably attached to the foundations 22 by means of screws 3.

The components 2, 3, 5 of the device 1 are configured as ready-made parts, which can advantageously be set up quickly and removed again. At the normal water level 10 of the inland body of water, only the foundations let into the ground 12 are present. As a result, the natural environment is not impaired, optically and ecologically, by a protective device. If a flood threatens to occur due to rising water levels, the device 1 can very quickly be set up on the prepared, firm foundations 22, and provide effective protection against flooding.

If a flood threatens to occur and no suitable foundations 22 have been prepared, anchoring of the device 1 in the ground 12 can also take place by means of earth screws or the like, as shown in FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 shows a top view of a fourth embodiment of the device 1 with two sheet pile walls 21, 23. On the one is one side of the device 1 the sheet pile wall 21 is be configured as an end section of the elastic panel 2, which has a curvature and thus extends away from the water 10 in the direction toward the land side 12. On the other side, the sheet pile wall is a separate part 23 set onto the panel 2.

In the event of flooding or high tide, the water 11 moves toward the land surface 12 that is protected by the panel 2 of the device 1. The region up to which the flood advances is shown in FIG. 7 by a broken line. The sheet pile walls 21, 23 prevent backwashing of the device 1 in this connection.

FIG. 8 shows a fifth embodiment of the device, in a detail view, in vertical section. In the detail view, a detail of one of multiple elastic rubber panels 2 is shown, which lie on a ground surface 12 that runs at a slant, with their back side 17. The rubber panel 2 shown has an opening 8 in which an inside plate 52 is disposed, which is formed by cutting it out of the elastic rubber panel 2. The inside plate 52 has an opening 58 through which a ground spike 3 that serves as a fastening means 3 is introduced into the ground 37 and firmly anchored there. The ground 37 can be the sand ground of a dune, for example.

On the front side 16 of the rubber panel 2 and the inside plate 52, a base plate 40 is disposed, the diameter of which is greater than the diameter of the opening 8. As a result, the opening 8 is completely closed off by the base plate 40. The base plate 40 and the elastic rubber panel 52 are completely glued 38 to one another and therefore firmly connected. The base plate 40 also has an opening 41 for the ground spike 3, whereby the diameter of the opening 41 approximately corresponds to the outside diameter of the ground spike 3. In this way, the ground spike 3 can slide along the opening 41 and seals it off while doing so.

When the device is set up, the ground spike 3 is first set into the base plate opening 41 and then the base plate 40 is set onto the inside plate 52. A possible center offset of the ground spike 3 can then be equalized, since the opening 58 is significantly greater than the outside diameter of the ground spike 3. The base place 40 is then glued 38 to the inside plate 52 and the elastic panel 2 is held in place in the ground 37.

A protective cap 31 is attached to the base plate 40, which cap forms a mechanical protection for a biasing element 30 configured as a helical spring 32. The helical spring 32 is partly situated within a spring sleeve 39, the outside wall surfaces of which is surrounded by the protective cap 31. On the wall 45 of the spring sleeve 39, there is a ring-shaped base 46 set on at the bottom, on which the helical spring 32 rests with its lower spring end 43. The upper spring end 44 lies on a contact surface 34 that is formed by a thickened region of the wall thickness of the protective cap 31. The helical spring 32 is permanently compressed by the contact surface 34 of the protective cap 31 and the surface of the base 46, and is biased in this manner. If water penetrates into the cavity 47 formed by protective cap 31, spring sleeve 39, and base plate 40, this water can exit through the drain opening 42.

The protective cap 31 is attached to the ground spike 3 by means of the closure screw 35, so that it sits on the base plate 40. For this purpose, the ground spike 3 has an inside thread (not shown) into which the closure screw 35 can be screwed.

If the ground 37 below the elastic panel 2 now becomes compacted, then the panel is pressed in the direction of the ground 37 by the effect of the force of the biased helical spring 32, and moves along the axis of the ground spike 3 until it lies on the ground surface 12 once again. As a result, the elastic rubber panel 2 is securely held in place.

FIG. 8 shows a detail view of a sixth embodiment of the device according to the invention, in vertical section. Here, the biasing element 30 is configured as a biased tension spring 33, which is disposed in the interior of the ground spike 3. As a result, the protective cap 31 is flatter and more compact than in the embodiment in FIG. 7. The embodiment is particularly suitable if the ground surface 12, as shown in FIG. 2, does not demonstrate any incline and the elastic panels 2 of the device are disposed essentially horizontally. The flat and compact protective cap 31 therefore is not optically noticeable or disruptive.

On the front side 16 of the elastic panel 2, a base plate 40 is disposed below the protective cap 31, which plate is connected with an inside plate 52 by means of a glue connection 38. The inside plate 52 has an opening 58 as a passage for the center part of the ground spike 3. The ground spike 3 is surrounded by a protective sleeve 36 in an upper section.

In this embodiment, as well, the elastic panel 2 is pressed in the direction of the ground 37 by the tension spring 33 that acts as a biasing element 30, and moves along the axis of the ground spike 3 in the event of compaction or sinking of the ground 37, until it lies on the ground surface 12. In order for the protective cap to be held in the event of a break of the tension spring 33, a securing cable (not shown) is provided. As in the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the inside plate 52 is formed by cutting it out of the elastic rubber panel 2 and then glued 38 to the base plate 40. An opening 41 in the base plate 40 serves for passing the tension spring 33 and the securing cable through.

In the horizontal arrangement shown, water-impermeable textile material made of PTFE or a nonwoven fabric 63 with a geo-lattice 60 as an armoring can also be used for the elastic panel 2, in place of rubber (see FIGS. 4a, 4b).

FIG. 10 shows a detail view of a seventh embodiment of the device. This has a simpler structure than the exemplary embodiments shown in FIGS. 8 and 9. An elastic panel 2 having an opening 8 lies on the ground surface 12. A ground spike 3 is passed through the opening 8. It has a head 9 that covers the opening 8. A hexagonal disk 50 is formed onto the head 9 at its top side, and a pipe 48 is formed on at its underside, which pipe narrows in a downward direction. The diameter of the opening 8 is slightly greater than the outside diameter of the pipe 48, so that the opening 8 is sealed off by the pipe 48, but nevertheless a movement of pipe 48 and elastic panel 2 relative to one another is possible.

The outside surfaces of the pipe 48 thus form sealing guide surfaces for the elastic panel 2. If the ground 37 becomes compacted, the elastic panel 2 can perform a movement of the along the pipe 48, until it lies on the compacted ground surface 12 once again. The head 9 is then turned by means of the hexagonal disk 50. By means of the rotation, the ground spike 3 moves into the ground 37 by means of its (thread, not shown), and thereby fixes the elastic panel 2 in place. The hexagonal disk 50 can also be set into the head 9, so that no tripping hazards are formed.

FIG. 11
a shows an overall view of an eighth embodiment of the flood protection and coastal protection device 1 with a nonwoven fabric 63 and an armoring 60, in vertical section. The device 1 is completely covered by sand 19 that has washed up. It has one or more elastic panels 2 made of natural rubber or hard rubber, which are connected with one another (not shown) and anchored in the subsurface 37 by means of earth screws 3. The ground surface 12 is partly below the water surface 10, partly above it. Behind the water, a formation in the manner of a sand dune is shown, the embankment incline 12 of which rises steeply, and finally reaches an edge 13. In the event of flooding or a storm tide, the water level 10 can rise and reach the level indicated with the number 11. The elastic panels 2 have a lattice connection 61 on their underside, by means of which connection they are connected with a nonwoven fabric 63 and the armoring 60 disposed above it. In this way, it is possible, in the region of the nonwoven fabric 63 and the armoring 60, to fix the ground 37 in place and to secure it, without interrupting the seepage line (not shown) of the water. The nonwoven fabric 63 consists, for example, of PET or PTFE, which is permeable for water, while sand is held back. The nonwoven fabric 63 has great mechanical strength, particularly tensile strength, and can be laid quickly and cost-advantageously.

It is also possible to lay the nonwoven fabric 63 with the armoring 60 as a composite panel (not shown).

FIG. 11
b shows a detail view of the nonwoven fabric 63 with the armoring 60 disposed on top of it, from FIG. 11a, in vertical section. Over the course of flooding or a storm tide, the sand 19 that is washed up can be carried away by the water, so that the nonwoven fabric 63 and the armoring 60 lie directly on the ground surface 12. In order to prevent them from being washed away in such a case, nonwoven fabric 63 and armoring 60 have fastening means 3 with which they are attached to the ground surface 12 or in the ground 37. The same earth screws or ground spikes that also serve as fastening means 3 for the elastic panels 2 of the device 1 are provided as fastening means 3.

Another advantage of the nonwoven fabric 63 and of the geo-lattice 60 is that the arrangement 63, 60 can be walked on by persons.

FIG. 12 shows a further development of the elastic panel 2 described above, as a three-layer composite panel 75, which is particularly used for flood protection and coastal protection. Multiple such panels 75, connected with one another at their edges, are laid onto sand surfaces that are at risk of flooding, in the shore region or coastal region, and then covered with sand.

The elastic panel 75 is structured as a composite panel composed of three layers. The uppermost holding layer 70 consists of rubber and is colored yellow or sand-colored. In this way, it is adapted to the surroundings in terms of color. The panel 75 has numerous smaller, circular depressions 71. The depressions 71 can accommodate sand or other ground material (not shown) and thus hold it in place. As a result, the removal of sand due to aeolian transport is prevented or reduced. An elastic rubber panel with steel wires or woven inserts laid into it (not shown) is provided as the center layer 74. As a result, the panels 75 can absorb great pressure forces and tensile forces. The holding layer 70 and the center layer 74 have water drain openings 72 that pass through them. On the underside 17 of the center layer 74, a nonwoven fabric layer 63 made of polyester is additionally provided. This acts as a water-permeable filter. While water can flow through the water drain openings 72 without hindrance, sand that is washed along with it is held back by the nonwoven fabric layer 63.

If one mixes sand with a small amount of water, at first a very viscous and rigid mixture will form. If one increases the proportion of water, a phase jump takes place, and a liquid suspension having low viscosity is formed. The suspension is then easily washed away and cannot fulfill any protective function on an endangered coast. Because of the filter function of the three-layer panel 75, the water runs into the ground through the layers 70, 74 is thereby separated from the sand. The formation of a low-viscosity suspension is thereby prevented. As a result, a further protective function of the device 1 takes place, in that sand removal is reduced.

The elastic panels 75 that have been described can be connected with one another, as components of the device 1, by means of vulcanization, gluing, or by means of connecting elements (not shown). In this connection, it is also possible to combine single-layer panels 2 with multi-layer panels 75 (see FIG. 3) or to use the panels 75 for other protective devices.

FIG. 13
a shows an overall view of a device 1 with single-layer elastic panels 2 and three-layer elastic panels 75 according to FIG. 1, in vertical section. The panels 2, 75 are connected with one another in water-tight manner, by means of connecting elements (not shown). The device 1 is completely covered by sand 19 that has washed up. It has one or more elastic panels 2, 75 made of natural rubber or hard rubber, which are connected with one another and anchored in the ground 37 by means of earth screws 3. The ground surface 12 is partly below the water surface 10, partly above it. Behind the water, a formation in the manner of a sand dune is shown, the embankment angle 12 of which rises steeply and finally reaches an edge 13. In the event of flooding or a storm tide, the water level 10 can rise and reach the level indicated with the number 11.

In the region of the embankment, the elastic panels 2 have a great incline relative to the horizontal. In this region, they are configured in one layer, i.e. in this region, the device 1 is impermeable for both sand and water. Three-layer elastic panels 75 lie in the region of the washed-up sand 19. These have only a slight incline and are disposed almost horizontally in the sand fill 19. The panels 75 are permeable for water due to the water drain openings 72 that pass through them, while sand is held back by the lower layer of nonwoven fabric 63. In this region, the device 1 is therefore water-permeable but sand-impermeable.

The nonwoven fabric 63 also has great mechanical strength, particularly tensile strength. Since the other two layers 70, 74 of the elastic panels 75 also demonstrate great mechanical strength, it is possible to both walk and drive on the device 1.

FIG. 13
b shows a detail view A of the elastic panel 75 according to FIG. 13a, in vertical section.

FIG. 14 shows an overall view of an embodiment of a device with a concrete element 73, in vertical section. The course of the ground surface 12 and of the water surface 10 of a sand dune formation is shown, as it appears after a storm tide. The ground surface 12 is partly below the water surface 10, partly above it. The device 1 with the elastic panels 2, 75 is partly lying directly on the ground surface 12. In the end regions that face the water side 10, as well as the lateral end regions (not shown) of the device 1, a concrete element 73 is attached to the corresponding elastic panels 75 as a weight. The concrete element 73 pulls the elastic panels 75 downward, thereby causing them to lie deeper in the ground 37 than the panels toward the land side. As a result, a progression of the panels 75 that is curved more downwards is obtained, in vertical section, causing them to form a particularly advantageous hydrodynamic shape that serves as a run-up surface for waves. The force of the waves is thereby absorbed and carried upward. The likelihood of backwashing of the device 1 is thereby reduced.

If the ground surface 12 reaches the lower edge of the concrete element 73 after all, due to the effects of a storm tide, then the concrete element 73 will move downward and pull the elastic panels 75 with it, in the direction of the ground 73 while doing so. As a result, the protection is restored all the way to the ocean floor 12, which then lies deeper. The concrete element 73 can also be combined with the device 1 shown in FIG. 13a.

FIG. 15 shows a schematic overall view of another embodiment of the the device 1 with single-layer elastic panels 2 and multi-layer elastic panels 75, in vertical section. The elastic panels 2, 75 consist of natural rubber or hard rubber and are connected with one another. For fixation in place, they are anchored in the ground 37 by means of earth screws 3. The sand surface 12 is partly below the water surface 10, partly above it. Behind the water 103, a formation 106 in the manner of a sand dune is shown. In the region of an embankment of the sand-dune-like formation 106, the elastic panels 2 have a great incline relative to the horizontal. In this region, they are configured in one layer, i.e. in this region, the device 1 is both sand-impermeable and water-impermeable. In this connection, the panels 2 lie just under the sand surface 12. Behind the region of the embankment, the distance between panels 75 and the sand surface 12 increases. As a result, the panels 75 form a depression or a trough-like depression 100. The cavity that has been formed in this manner is filled with filled-in sand 19. The sand is introduced as in the case of sand nourishment, whereby the surface 12 of the introduced sand lies above the normal water level 10. As a result, a flat, almost horizontal surface 12 is formed. The water 103 has no point of attack in the event of a storm tide or flooding, with which to carry away the sand 18. Thus, the sand 19 is reliably prevented from being washed away. Furthermore, the sand 19 is held in place by the walls 101, 104 of the trough-like depression 100. The walls 101, 104 are formed by folds of the elastic panels, and therefore no additional components are required.

In the region of the trough-like depression 100, three-layer composite panels 75 are provided, as shown in FIG. 12. The perforated panels 75 are permeable for water as the result of water drain openings that pass through them (see FIG. 12), while sand is held back by a layer composed of nonwoven fabric (see FIG. 12), thereby making the device 1 water-permeable but sand-impermeable. As a result, water immediately drains away through the water drain openings, and no water/sand suspension that has a low viscosity and therefore can be easily washed away or carried away is formed.

The panels 2, 75 are anchored in the sand 37 by means of numerous earth screws 3. In the region of the trough-like depression 100, the earth screws 3 are not absolutely necessary, since here, the panels 75 are fixed in place by the sand 19 that is filled in.

In the end regions of the device 1, which face the water side 103, concrete elements 73 are attached as weights, at continuous intervals on the corresponding elastic panels 2, 75. Likewise, concrete elements 73 are attached at the lateral end regions (see FIG. 14). The function of these concrete elements 73 has been explained in detail above.

FIG. 16
a shows a schematic top view of the trough-like depression 100, which has numerous panels 75 that are connected with one another. A water line 105, in other words the transition region between water 103 and sand 37, is shown. The trough-like depression 100 has an approximately rectangular shape with four side walls 101, 104, which have been formed by folding the panels 75. The trough-like depression 100 is disposed in such a manner that it has a sufficient distance from the water line 105 and from the dune formation 106, so that water that runs up or drains away has the lowest possible vertical flow speed in the event of flooding or a storm tide.

The trough-like depression 100 has elevations 102 on its bottom, which elevations are also formed by folding of the panels 75. The elevations 102 extend from the wall 104 that faces the water 103 in the direction toward the land side. As a result, an additional effect is achieved, like the one that is fundamentally also supposed to be achieved by groins, namely that of preventing sand loss due to lateral currents. The elevations 102 according to the invention are more effective, however, since they are situated entirely within the trough 100 and are situated in the sand, in other words water does not wash around them directly.

It should be emphasized that the representation serves only for an illustration, since the trough-like depression 100 is completely covered by filled-in sand 19 (see FIG. 16b) and thus is not visible. Furthermore, the dimensions of the trough-like depression 100 and of the elevations 102 as well as the distances relative to one another are not shown true to scale. FIG. 16b shows a schematic view of the trough-like depression 100 from FIG. 16a, in vertical section. It can be seen the elevations 102 are formed by folding of the elastic panels 75, thereby making any additional components unnecessary, and making a cost-advantageous structure of the device 1 possible. The regions between the elevations 102 and above the elevations 102 are filled with filled-in sand 19.

FIG. 17 shows a detail view of another embodiment of the device 1 with a cement wash anchor 207 according to the invention, in vertical section. The cement wash anchor 207 consists of a stainless steel pipe 208 having crown-like teeth 216 at the lower end. In the upper region, a pipe plate 209 made of stainless steel, having a hole 210, is welded on. Furthermore, the pipe has an inside thread 212 in the upper region.

For installation, the cement wash anchor 207 is set perpendicular onto the beach surface or ground surface 12. Then, a cement suspension 212 is pumped downward through the pipe opening 211. Because of the washing effect of the cement suspension 212, the cement wash anchor 207 can easily be washed into the ground 37, until the pipe plate 209 lies on the ground surface 12. After the cement has hardened, a shape fit between the cement wash anchor 207 and the ground 37 is formed. As a result, the cement wash anchor 207 can be firmly anchored, even in sand. Then the elastic rubber panels 2 that are connected with one another are laid onto the ground surface 12. These panels have an opening 8. The closure screw 213 is passed through this opening 8 of the elastic rubber panels 2 and screwed through the hole 210 and the pipe opening 211 into the inside thread 212, thereby causing an elastic panel 2, in each instance, to be clamped in between the pipe plate 209 and the head plate 214 of the closure screw 213. As a result, the elastic rubber panels 2 are securely held on the ground surface 12.

FIG. 18 shows an overall view of another embodiment of the device 1 with a beach wall 300, in vertical section. The figure shows how structures or buildings near the coast, in this case a beach wall 300, can be protected. For this purpose, the elastic panels 75 are directly connected with the beach wall 300 by means of a suitable connection means (not shown). Here, the multi-layer, water-permeable and sand-impermeable elastic panels 75 are used. The elastic panels 75 are disposed underneath the sand surface 20 and partly underneath the water surface 10. At the end regions of the panels 75 that are connected with one another by means of a mechanical connection, which regions face the water, concrete elements 73 are attached, which pull the elastic panels 75 downward in these regions and thus are better able to absorb the pressure waves produced by the ocean waves.

FIG. 19 shows an overall view of another embodiment of the device 1 as scour protection, with a monopile 301, in vertical section. Such monopiles 301 are concrete pillars pile-driven into the ocean floor 37 and are used as carriers for wind energy systems or drilling towers, for example. Because of water currents, scouring 302 occurs in the vicinity of monopiles 301 or other offshore structures, in other words the sand is washed away in the region of the structure 301, and a scour funnel is formed. By means of the device 1, which essentially consists, in the embodiment shown, of the elastic panels 2 that are connected with one another and of concrete elements 73 at the edges or end regions of the elastic panels 2, the monopile 301 can be effectively prevented from scouring. The reference number 302 shows that the sand surface 20 in the region of the monopile was washed away superficially, but further washing away was prevented by the elastic panels 2 that lie against the monopile 301. The concrete elements 73 pull the panels 2 downward and thus ensure a hydrodynamically advantageous shape of the device 1. They furthermore serve as a fastening element, so that if the scour protection does not exceed a specific size, it can be possible to do without earth screws or other fastening means described above, depending on the situation. The elastic panels 2 can be both single-layer and water-impermeable, as well as multi-layer panels 75 (see FIG. 12), which are water-permeable but hold sand back.

The embodiment of the device 1 shown in FIG. 19 is not restricted to the use on monopiles 301 as shown, but rather can be used in the manner shown for all types of offshore structures or for foundations of offshore structures underwater structures.

FIG. 20 shows an overall view of another embodiment of the device 1 without sand covering, in vertical section. The ground surface 12 is situated under the water surface 10. Multi-layer, water-permeable but sand-impermeable panels 75 (see FIG. 12) are provided as elastic panels. These are connected with one another (not shown) and lie directly on the slightly inclined ground surface 12 and are not covered with sand. However, this is also possible, just as well. Because of their stability and flexibility, the panels 75 can nevertheless be walked on and driven on. The panels are fixed in place in the ground 37 by means of ground spikes 3. In the end regions that face the water side 10 as well as in the lateral end regions (not shown) of the elastic panels 75, multiple concrete elements 73 are attached to the corresponding elastic panels 75 as weights; these pull the elastic panels 75 downward. In this way, a progression of the panels 75 that is curved downward is obtained, and the panels therefore have a particularly advantageous hydrodynamic shape that serves as a run-up surface for waves.

Furthermore, a dune with an embankment 24 made of sand and an escarpment 13 with a sand surface 20 that follows it are shown. The region of the embankment 24 is protected by means of water-impermeable, single-layer, elastic panels 2. These water-impermeable elastic panels 2 extend deep into the ground 37. When the water surface 10 rises during a high tide, it covers the surface of the water-permeable panels 75. The water can then advantageously drain off into the ground 37 through the panels 75. The region of the water-impermeable elastic panels 2, which extends into the ground 37, then prevents the water from rising too high in the region of the dune behind the panel 2, and prevents scouring from occurring there, with elastic movement of the panel 2, under the stress of waves. The dune 13, 20, 24 is additionally protected as a result. The water-impermeable elastic panels 2 are connected with one another in water-tight manner (not shown), by means of vulcanization. The regions with the water-permeable panels 75 and the regions with the water-impermeable panels 2 are connected with one another by means of rubber elements 76.

FIG. 21 shows an overall view of another embodiment of the device 1 with concrete beams, in vertical section. In this connection, reinforcement elements 303 are provided, which simultaneously can serve as fastening elements 3. Instead of concrete beams, metal profiles are also suitable. In this connection, a region composed of elastic, water-impermeable panels 75 is firmly connected with the concrete beams 3 in its edge region, and is thereby fixed in place on or in the ground 37. Earth anchors or ground spikes can be eliminated for this reason, but they can also be used as an additional fastening means. In the embodiment of the device 1 as shown, the region of the elastic panels 75 has a curvature between two concrete beams 3. Because of this curvature, a particularly stable structure is obtained, in static terms, which withstands even strong suction forces that are directed upward. For this reason, even elastic panels without inserts or reinforcements can be used.

REFERENCE SYMBOL LIST

1. Protective device

2. Elastic panels

3. Fastening element

4. Washer

5. Support elements

6. Ground panels

7. Anchor elements

8. Opening

9. Head

10. Water surface

11. Flood surface

12. Ground surface

13. Escarpment

14. Textile insert

15. Thread

16. Front side

17. Underside

18. Contact element

19. Sand fill

20. Sand surface

21. Sheet pile wall

22. Foundation

23. Set-on sheet pile wall

24. Embankment

30. Biasing element

31. Protective cap

32. Helical spring

33. Tension spring

34. Contact surface

35. Closure screw

36. Protective sleeve

37. Ground

38. Glue connection

39. Spring sleeve

40. Base panel

41. Water surface

42. Drain opening

43. Lower spring end

44. Upper spring end

45. Wall

46. Base

47. Cavity

48. Pipe

50. Disk

52. Inside plate

58. Inside opening

60. Armoring

61. Lattice connection

63. Nonwoven fabric

70. Holding layer

71. Depressions

72. Water drain openings

73. Concrete element

74. Center layer

75. Three-layer composite panel

76. Rubber element

100 Trough

101 Side wall

102 Elevation

103 Water

104 Side wall

105 Waterline

106 Dune formation

207 Cement wash anchor

208 Pipe

209 Pipe plate

210 Hole

211 Pipe opening

212 Inside thread

213 Closure screw

214 Head plate

215 Cement

216 Drill crown

300 Beach wall

301 Monopile

302 Pothole

303 Reinforcement

Number	Date	Country	Kind
10 2008 020 261.4	Apr 2008	DE	national
10 2008 024 151.2	May 2008	DE	national
10 2008 037 712.0	Aug 2008	DE	national
10 2008 053 688.1	Oct 2008	DE	national

DEVICE AND METHOD FOR FLOOR PROTECTION, COASTAL PROTECTION, OR SCOUR PROTECTION

Information

Publication Number

Date Filed

Date Published

Inventors

CPC

US Classifications

International Classifications

Abstract

Description

Claims

Priority Claims (4)

PCT Information