WAVE ENERGY ATTENUATION STRUCTURE

Field of the Invention

The present invention is directed to a wave energy attenuation structure, including primary and secondary wave attenuation devices cooperatively disposed, dimensioned, configured and structured to protect a shoreline against erosion, while facilitating the marine environment by serving as an effective marine habitat.

DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART

As is known, through man's abuse and through natural disasters, a significant amount of erosion has occurred among the beaches' natural reef system. These reef systems protect beaches and shorelines from devastating erosion and land loss, act as nurseries for growing fish and provide a critical source of food and income for millions of individuals throughout the world.

As such, several State and Federal funded programs have been initiated to save and inherently increase the reefs' system. One well known program is to sink retired ships or large transport ships into the ocean for consequently forming larger man-made reefs. Though successful, this means of forming a reef tends to be inefficient and very costly and is not performed as frequently as is necessary. As such, other reef systems, on a smaller scale, have been developed for allowing economical installation on a more frequent basis. Unfortunately, these smaller scaled man-made reefs tend to lack structural stability, thus some structures may be destroyed during deployment or may be destroyed upon contact with the underwater surface. Structural stability problems are not only associated with deployment, but also occur with strong sea currents, whether associated with large weather systems or just strong tidal currents. In these situations, the water flow forces the structure to roll and travel along the bottom of the ocean. This type of movement can and has demolished and shattered the smaller scaled man-made reefs, defeating its intended purpose.

Many other types and configurations of smaller scale reef systems have been developed to promote marine life and to prevent erosion, including a circular reef system having a plurality of orifices extending therethrough. Though this system may be successful for a short time, it is questionable as to this system's longevity and stability. The round, circular shape appears to be of a shape which will and can promote movement with a natural current or even a tidal current generally associated with normal current flow. Movement may cause destruction of the artificial reef, consequently defeating its intended purpose.

Other erosion protection structures are known to have tetrahedral frames comprising outer elongated members arranged in outline of a tetrahedron, and a triaxial central strut arrangement. Although such structures may promote marine growth, they may fail to offer the needed housing and protection necessary to sustain marine life. In addition, many of the known or existing structures of this type are not sufficiently structured to avoid erosion over time.

A further review of known or prior art structures of the type referred to herein indicate that traditional seawalls are rip-rap, concrete or steel sheet piling including surface areas which are nonporous, causing wave energy to deflect off the surface. Moreover, in the case of vertical concrete/sheet piling services, wave energy is deflected up, down and adjacent to the structure causing scouring down and around the sides of the structure. This undermines the substrate that the structure is to protect, and it eventually fails. The adjacent unprotected shorelines and like areas are negatively impacted by such scouring of the substrate, this in turn forces neighboring structures to attempt to stop the erosion of their properties.

Accordingly, it is believed that many prior art structures failed to provide intended benefits. Accordingly, there is a need in this area for a device, system and/or structure which will not only facilitate marine growth and provide an adequate marine habitat but also accomplish the attenuation of wave energy in a manner which eliminates or significantly restricts the erosion of shorelines, surface bottoms, etc. Specifically, there is a need for a system and/or structure which will adequately and successfully promote marine growth, offer shelter to marine life, inhibit erosion of beach and shorelines while being economically feasible and long lasting. Additionally, prior techniques do not suggest the present inventive combination of component elements, which cooperatively accomplish the intended purpose and goal. Such a new and proposed wave attenuation structure achieves its intended purposes, objectives and advantages over the prior art devices through a new, useful and unobvious combination of component elements, which is simple to use, with the utilization of a minimum number of functioning parts, at a reasonable cost to manufacture, assemble, test and by employing only readily available materials.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Currently, there does not appear to be structures relating to specifically engineered seawalls that sufficiently address wave energy attenuation or wave height reduction through modeling site-specific wave energy conditions, sea level rise and storm weather and surge events. The specific design attributes of a preferred and stable structural design would allow wave energy to be directed in at least an upward plane, away from a supporting bottom surface, thereby reducing and/or eliminating bottom scour. In such a preferred and proposed structure, wave energy would enter through a plurality of openings which collectively define an apertured construction in cooperatively and collectively positioned wave attenuation devices. As set forth in greater detail hereinafter, the operative features of a wave attenuation structure of the present invention result in wave energy being directed in several directions and allowing the effects of Bernoulli's continuity theorem to take place.

Therefore, the wave attenuation structure of the present invention comprises the wave attenuation devices, each of which include a small footprint, have a minimal surface area in contact with and supported by the supporting bottom surface. This is a concern in permitting the surface areas integrally associated with the wave attenuation devices to provide productive substrates for essential fish habitat. In turn, this allows the wave attenuation structure of the present invention to transition from a man-made structure to a “natural” structure covered in marine biomass. This transformation provides a better process for distributing and attenuating wave energy. As result, longer term seawall protection is provided and due to the dimension, configuration and relative disposition of the wave attenuation devices, there is no negative wave energy effects to the shoreline areas surrounding and/or adjacent to the wave attenuation structure. This because wave energy is not refracted elsewhere, but merely fully and/or effectively attenuated at the installation site of the wave attenuation structure of the present invention. Further, the placement of the described wave attenuation devices in an intended operative position are meant to be portable, to the extent that the wave attenuation devices may be repositioned elsewhere providing a more cost-effective way to protect a shoreline. This portability characteristic and/or the portable placement or operative positioning of the wave attenuation devices is a distinct advantage because the “wave attenuation process” and attendant, the operative features of the present invention allow for sediment to fall out of and/or be removed from the wave flow passing over and/or coming in contact therewith. In turn, the separation out of the sediment and the collection of the removed sediment along a corresponding shoreline, allows for a natural shoreline to be rebuilt through sediment accumulation.

More specifically, one embodiment of the wave attenuation structure and/or system includes a multi-component placement of at least one, but preferably a plurality of primary wave attenuation devices relative to at least one, but preferably a plurality of secondary wave attenuation devices. When practically applied and installed, the subject wave attenuation structure may be, but is not limited to, the protection of an associated or corresponding shoreline. As such, in one embodiment the operative position of the wave attenuation structure comprises the plurality of primary wave attenuation devices and the plurality of secondary wave attenuation devices collectively disposed in a preferred, predetermined location relative to one another and relative to the shoreline. In at least one embodiment, the operative position comprises each of at least a majority of the plurality of secondary wave attenuation devices disposed between different adjacent ones of the plurality of primary wave attenuation devices, concurrent to the plurality of primary wave attenuation devices disposed in aligned, protective relation to the shoreline.

The primary and secondary wave attenuation devices may vary in number dependent, in at least one embodiment, on the length and/or configuration of the shoreline or area being protected or otherwise operatively associated with the wave attenuation structure. Also, in at least one embodiment the primary and secondary wave attenuation devices have at least partially common dimensions and some of the similar overall configurations, as set forth in detail hereinafter. Such common dimensions may include a substantially common height, wherein both the primary and secondary wave attenuation devices extend from the supporting bottom surface upwardly or outwardly therefrom. Moreover, and as will be apparent hereinafter, the configuration of both the primary wave attenuation device and the secondary wave attenuation devices may be generally described as a truncated pyramid configuration. As used herein the term “truncated” when used to describe the general shape or configuration of at least portions of the primary and secondary wave attenuation devices, comprises the cut or removal of polytope vertex, resulting in the exposure of a facet or face, once the vertex has been removed.

Accordingly, at least one, but more practically, a plurality of primary attenuation devices includes a base, an outer end oppositely disposed to said base and a hollow interior. The hollow interior is at least partially defined and/or bounded by a back wall and a plurality of preferably two sidewalls, wherein the back wall and the plurality of sidewalls are integrally connected and collectively disposed in a continuously surrounding relation to the hollow interior. Further, each of the plurality of sidewalls are angularly oriented and as such extend from the base to the outer end at a converging angular orientation. The angular orientation of the sidewalls of a common one of the primary wave attenuation devices is the same, such angular orientation may vary, dependent at least in part, on the specific practical application and/or area of installation and the physical characteristics of the associated shoreline. However, in one embodiment the angular orientation of the sidewalls, such as relative to the base, should preferably be between 85° and 35°. In contrast and/or in the alternative, the back wall has a flat substantially planar configuration and is absent a converging angular orientation. Instead, the back wall is preferably disposed in perpendicular relation to the base as it extends upwardly or outwardly therefrom to the outer end.

Additional structural and operative features of the primary wave attenuation device include the angularly oriented sidewalls having an apertured construction. Such apertured construction comprises a plurality of openings, of preferably but not necessarily three in number, formed therein and extending therethrough. The plurality of openings defines a fluid communication between the hollow interior and the exterior of the sidewalls. Further, the plurality of openings collectively defines fluid flow through the primary wave attenuation device into and out of the hollow interior via each of the plurality of sidewalls.

Yet additional features include each of the openings in each of the plurality of sidewalls having a tapered circumferential configuration at least partially defined by an outer periphery of each circumference being larger than the inner periphery of the same opening. Further, the different sizes of the outer and inner periphery of a circumference of a given opening preferably defines a taper of the circumference of no less than 5°. Also, in one embodiment each of the plurality of openings comprise a three sided or substantially triangular configuration. As should be apparent the tapered configuration of the plurality of openings defines a fluid flow therethrough, such as through the upper end of the primary wave attenuation device, at an increased velocity. Accordingly, it is of note that the outer end, disposed in opposing relation to the base, also includes at least one opening formed therein and extending therethrough. Also, the truncated nature of the configuration of the primary wave attenuation device at the outer end serves to establish a flat, planar configuration, which may be disposed in substantially parallel relation to the base.

Somewhat similar in configuration, size and overall structure, at least one but more practically a plurality of the secondary attenuation devices comprises a hollow interior and a plurality of preferably three outer walls integrally secured to one another and continuously disposed in surrounding relation to the hollow interior. Further, each of the plurality of outer walls include an apertured construction at least partially defined by a plurality of apertures formed therein. The one or more secondary wave attenuation devices also include an upper end, which is also preferably apertured and includes a flat or planar configuration disposed in substantially parallel relation to the base. Therefore, the plurality of preferably three angularly oriented outer walls and the flat upper and/or face of the one or more secondary wave attenuation devices further define or at least partially describe the at least partially truncated pyramid configuration.

As with the primary wave attenuation device, the apertures formed in the outer walls of the one or more secondary wave attenuation devices include each of the openings having a tapered circumferential configuration, at least partially defined by an outer periphery of the circumference being larger than the inner periphery of the same opening. Further, the different sizes of the outer and inner peripheries of a circumference of a given aperture should define a taper of the circumference of no less than 5°. Also, in one embodiment each of the plurality of openings comprise a three sided or substantially triangular configuration. As should be apparent the tapered configuration of the plurality of apertures defines a fluid flow therethrough, such as through the upper end of the primary wave attenuation device, at an increased velocity. This is due at least in part to the fact that the tapered circumferential configuration of each of the apertures results in an inflow of fluid therethrough at a somewhat increased pressure and/or velocity.

Further, the angular orientation of each of the plurality of outer walls is more specifically defined by an angularly converging orientation extending from the base to the upper end, wherein the angle of orientation will preferably be between 85° and 35°. However, the angular orientation of the plurality of outer walls of the secondary wave attenuation device are preferably equal to one another and preferably equal to the converging angular orientation of the sidewalls associated with the one or more primary wave attenuation devices. However, in certain practical applications, the degree of angular orientation of the sidewalls and the outer walls may not necessarily be equal.

As set forth above, the operative position of one embodiment of the wave attenuation structure comprises at least one, but more practically, a plurality of primary wave attenuation devices and at least one, but more practically, a plurality of secondary wave attenuation devices collectively disposed in a preferred, predetermined disposition relative to one another and relative to the shoreline. In at least one embodiment, the operative position comprises each of at least a majority of the plurality of secondary wave attenuation devices disposed between different adjacent ones of the plurality of primary wave attenuation devices, concurrent to the plurality of primary wave attenuation devices disposed and aligned with one another relative to a shoreline or area intended to be protected.

In more specific terms, a preferred and/or predetermined operative position of at least one embodiment of the wave attenuation structure includes a plurality of the primary wave attenuation devices disposed in aligned relation to one another. Such an aligned relation may comprise the back wall of at least a majority of the plurality and/or at least adjacent ones of the primary wave attenuation devices being disposed in substantially coplanar relation to one another and in and operative, protective position relative to the associated shoreline. Such aligned, coplanar relation may be established by the unattached positioning of the plurality of primary wave attenuation devices. In the alternative, the back walls thereof may be structured to be interconnected such as by an interconnecting panel, structure, connector etc. It is of note that the “aligned relation” of the back walls of the primary wave attenuation devices, when operatively positioned, will generally correspond to the contour of the shoreline. Therefore, in situations where the shoreline may be curved or other than oriented in a substantially straight-line configuration, the “aligned relation” of the back walls may be other than in coplanar relation in that the plurality of back walls may correspond to the contour of the shoreline.

Concurrently, when the back walls are in the noted aligned relation to one another, the preferred operative position further comprises the angularly oriented sidewalls extending outwardly from the respective ones of the back walls in a common direction away from the associated shoreline. As such angularly oriented sidewalls of adjacent ones of the plurality of primary wave attenuation devices will be disposed in at least partially spaced relation to one another. Such spacing is due, at least in part, to the length of the back wall being appropriately dimensioned to accomplish such spacing as well as the aforementioned angular orientation of confronting sidewalls of next adjacent primary wave attenuation devices.

The preferred operative position of the wave attenuation structure further comprises each of at least a majority of the secondary wave attenuation devices disposed between different adjacent but spaced ones of the primary attenuation devices. In such a position, the “innermost” outer walls of the secondary wave attenuation device are disposed in confronting relation to the sidewalls of the next adjacent primary wave attenuation devices. It is of note that the term “confronting relation” or its equivalent as specifically related to the relative disposition of the sidewalls and outer walls of the primary and secondary wave attenuation devices is meant to describe a face-to-face disposition thereof, while still being spaced from one another, due at least in part to the angular orientations of both the sidewalls of the primary wave attenuation devices and the outer walls of the secondary wave attenuation devices.

As also set forth herein, the unique attenuating features of wave energy is due, at least in part, to the free fluid flow of water between the primary and secondary wave attenuation devices and through the respective hollow interiors thereof. Such established and intended free fluid flow results in the wave energy being deflected in away from the supporting bottom surface in an upward plane, thereby reducing and/or eliminating bottom scour. In addition, such free flow of water through the apertured construction of the sidewalls and outer walls respectively of the primary and secondary wave attenuation devices directs the wave energy in several directions which results in a minimal contact with the supporting bottom as well as protecting shoreline areas disposed adjacent the ends of the wave attenuation structure of the present invention.

Moreover, such free flow between and through the primary and secondary wave attenuation devices is due, at least in part, to the alignment of the plurality of at least and/or preferably three openings in each of the angularly oriented sidewalls and the apertures in the angularly oriented outer walls. To accomplish such alignment, the plurality of openings in the sidewalls of the primary attenuation devices are disposed in a predetermined array and/or disposition which is essentially equal to or common with an array of the plurality of at least three apertures formed in the outer walls of the next adjacent secondary wave attenuation device. Such alignment is further facilitated, in at least some embodiments, by the height of the adjacently positioned primary and secondary wave attenuation devices being substantially the same, concurrent to the adjacently disposed sidewalls and outer walls being in the aforementioned “confronting” or face-to-face, yet spaced relation to one another.

Yet additional features of at least one preferred embodiment of the wave attenuation structure includes the primary and secondary wave attenuation devices each being manufactured from a fiber reinforced, minimum 5000 psi concrete, poured in precision manufactured steel forms. Moreover, the overall size and placement of the primary and secondary wave activation devices, when assembled into the preferred operative position relative to one another, may vary based on the fact that each wave attenuation structure may be “site-specific”, and engineer designed and structured for conditions at the particular site of installation. Further, the weight of the wave attenuation devices as well as other structural features thereof may eliminate the necessity for any type of anchoring, such that both the primary and secondary wave attenuation devices will serve to maintain their intended position. The elimination of any anchoring requirements facilitates the advantages associated with of the portable placement, positioning and/or installation of the wave attenuation structure of the present invention, as set forth in greater detail hereinafter.

These and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become clearer when the drawings as well as the detailed description are taken into consideration.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a fuller understanding of the nature of the present invention, reference should be had to the following detailed description taken in connection with the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of one embodiment of the wave attenuation structure of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a primary wave attenuation device which comprises an operative component of the embodiment of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of a secondary wave attenuation device which comprises an operative component of the embodiment of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is a top view of a secondary wave attenuation device structurally and operationally similar to the embodiment of FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 is a schematic representation of the wave attenuation structure of the present invention assembled in operative relation to a protected shoreline.

FIG. 7 is a front view in schematic form of another embodiment of a wave attenuation structure of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a top view in schematic form of the embodiment of FIG. 7.

FIG. 9 is a front view of a primary wave attenuation device of the embodiment of FIGS. 8 and 9.

FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 9.

FIG. 11 is a rear perspective view of the embodiment of FIGS. 9 and 10.

FIG. 12 is a front perspective view of yet another embodiment of the wave attenuation structure directed to the connection of adjacent components thereof.

FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 12 in a connected orientation.

Like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views of the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

The invention now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings in which illustrative embodiments of the invention are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.

Therefore, the wave attenuation structure of the present invention comprises the aforementioned wave attenuation devices each of which include a small footprint, have a minimal surface area in contact with the supporting bottom surface. This is a concern in permitting the surface areas integrally associated with the wave attenuation devices to provide productive substrates for essential fish habitat. In turn, this allows the wave attenuation structure of the present invention to transition from a man-made structure to a “natural” structure covered in marine biomass. This transformation provides a better process for distributing and attenuating wave energy. As result, longer term seawall protection is provided and due to the dimension, configuration and relative disposition of the wave attenuation devices, there is no negative wave energy effects to the shoreline areas surrounding and/or adjacent to the wave attenuation structure. This because wave energy is not refracted elsewhere, but merely fully and/or effectively attenuated at the installation site of the wave attenuation structure of the present invention.

With primary reference to FIGS. 1-6, one embodiment of the wave attenuation structure and/or system is generally indicated as 10 and includes a multi-component placement comprising at least one, but preferably a plurality of primary wave attenuation devices 12 relative to at least one, but preferably a plurality of secondary wave attenuation devices 14. When practically applied and installed, the subject wave attenuation structure 10 may be, but is not limited to, the protection of an associated or corresponding shoreline 100, as schematically represented in FIG. 6. As such, in one embodiment the operative position of the wave attenuation structure 10 comprises the plurality of primary wave attenuation devices 12 and the plurality of secondary wave attenuation devices 14 collectively disposed in a preferred, predetermined location relative to one another and relative to the shoreline, as represented in FIGS. 1 and 6. In at least one embodiment, the operative position comprises each of at least a majority of the plurality of secondary wave attenuation devices 14 disposed between different adjacent ones of the plurality of primary wave attenuation devices 12 concurrent to the plurality of primary wave attenuation devices 12 disposed in aligned, protective relation to the shoreline 100.

The primary and secondary attenuation devices 12 and 14 may vary in number dependent, in at least one embodiment, on the length and/or contour of the shoreline 100 or area being protected or otherwise operatively associated with the wave attenuation structure 10. Also, in at least one embodiment the primary and secondary wave attenuation devices 12 and 14 have at least partially common dimensions and at least generally similar overall configurations. Further, the placement of the primary and secondary wave attenuation devices 12 and 14 in an intended operative position may be portable, to the extent that the primary and secondary wave attenuation devices 12 and 14 may be repositioned elsewhere providing a more cost-effective way to protect a shoreline. This portability characteristic and/or the portable placement or operative positioning of the primary and secondary wave attenuation devices 12 and 14, independently and in cooperative relation to one another, is a distinct advantage because the “wave attenuation process” and attendant the operative features of the present invention which facilitates the removal or “fall out” of sediment from the wave flow passing over and/or coming in contact therewith. In turn, the separation out of the sediment and the collection of the removed sediment along a corresponding shoreline, allows for a natural shoreline to be rebuilt through sediment accumulation.

Such common dimensions may include a substantially common height, wherein both the primary and secondary wave attenuation devices 12 and 14 extend from a supporting bottom surface 200 upwardly or outwardly therefrom, at a common distance as represented in FIG. 1. Moreover, and as will be apparent hereinafter, the configuration of both the primary wave attenuation device 12 and the secondary wave attenuation device 14 may be generally described as a truncated pyramid configuration. As used herein, the term “truncated” when used to describe the general shape or configuration of at least portions of the primary and secondary wave attenuation devices 12 and 14, comprises the cut or removal of polytope vertex, resulting in the exposure of a facet or face, once the vertex has been removed. Such is demonstrated by the configuration, dimension and exposure of the outer end 18 of the primary wave attenuation device and the upper end 18 of the secondary wave attenuation device 14.

Accordingly, at least one, but more practically, a plurality of primary attenuation devices 12 includes a base 16, an outer end 18 oppositely disposed to said base 16 and a hollow interior 17. The hollow interior is at least partially defined and/or bounded by a back wall 22 and a plurality of preferably two sidewalls 20, wherein the back wall 22 and the plurality of sidewalls 20 are integrally connected and collectively disposed in a continuously surrounding relation to the hollow interior 17. Further, each of the plurality of sidewalls 20 are angularly oriented and extend from the base 16 to the outer end 18 at a converging angular orientation. The angular orientation of the sidewalls 20 of a common one of the primary wave attenuation devices 12 is preferably the same, but such angular orientation may vary, dependent at least in part, on the specific practical application and/or installation site as well as the physical characteristics of the associated shoreline 100. However, in one embodiment the angular orientation of the sidewalls 20, such as relative to the base 16, should preferably be between 85° and 35°. In contrast and/or in the alternative, the back wall 22 comprises a flat substantially planar configuration and is absent a converging angular orientation. Instead, the back wall 22 is preferably disposed in substantially perpendicular relation to the base 16 as it extends upwardly or outwardly therefrom to the outer end 18.

Additional structural and operative features of the primary wave attenuation device 12 include the angularly oriented sidewalls 20 having an apertured construction. Such apertured construction comprises a plurality of openings 26 of preferably but not necessarily being three in number, formed in the sidewalls 20 and extending therethrough into the hollow interior 17. The plurality of openings 26 defines a fluid communication between the hollow interior 17 and the exterior of the sidewalls 20. Further, the plurality of openings 26 collectively define fluid flow through the primary wave attenuation device 12 into and out of the hollow interior 17 via each of the plurality of sidewalls 20. Further, as set forth in greater detail hereinafter, the existence of a plurality of openings 26 and apertures 26′ respectively in the primary wave attenuation device 12 and the secondary wave attenuation device 14 facilitates the establishment of a free flow of fluid between at least adjacently position ones of the primary and secondary wave attenuation devices 12 and 14.

Yet additional features include each of the openings 26 in each of the plurality of sidewalls having a tapered circumferential configuration at least partially defined by an outer periphery of each circumference being larger than an inner periphery 27′ of the same opening 26, as represented in at least FIG. 2. Further, the different sizes of the outer and inner periphery 27 and 27′ of a circumference of a given opening 26 preferably defines a taper of the circumference of no less than 5°. Also, in one embodiment each of the plurality of openings 26 comprise a three sided or substantially triangular configuration, as represented throughout the Figures. As should be apparent, the tapered configuration of the plurality of openings 26 defines a fluid flow through the hollow interior 17 and outwardly therefrom through the access opening 18′ of the outer end 18 of the primary wave attenuation device 12, at a somewhat increased velocity. Accordingly, it is of note that the outer end 18, disposed in opposing relation to the base 16, also includes at least one access opening 18′ formed therein and extending therethrough into fluid communication with the hollow interior 17. In addition, the access opening 18′ also has a tapered circumferential configuration similar or substantially equal in structure to the tapered circumferential configuration of the openings 26. Also, the truncated configuration of the primary wave attenuation device 12 at the outer end 18 serves to establish a flat, planar configuration thereof, which may be disposed in substantially parallel relation to the base 16. It should be further noted that the tapered circumferential configuration in the access opening 18′ in the outer end 18 of the primary wave attenuation system allows for increased fluid flow through the access opening 18′, which attenuates any horizontal fluid flow/wave energy that comes over the top of the primary wave attenuation device 12. This favorable characteristic renders the primary wave attenuation device effective when submerged.

Somewhat similar in configuration, size and overall structure, at least one but more practically a plurality of the secondary attenuation devices 14 comprises a hollow interior 17′ and a plurality of preferably three outer walls 20′ integrally secured to one another and continuously disposed in surrounding relation to the hollow interior 17′. Further, each of the plurality of outer walls 20′ include an apertured construction at least partially defined by a plurality of apertures 26′ formed therein and extending therethrough into fluid communication with the hollow interior 17′. The one or more secondary wave attenuation devices 14 also include an upper end 18 having an access opening 18′ which may include a flat or planar configuration disposed in substantially parallel relation to the base 16′ of the one or more secondary wave attenuation devices 14. Therefore, the plurality of preferably three angularly oriented outer walls 20′ and the flat upper and/or face 18 of the one or more secondary wave attenuation devices 14 further define or at least partially describe the at least partially truncated pyramid configuration thereof, as represented throughout the Figures. It is to be noted that the structural and operational features of the one or more secondary wave attenuation devices 14 may be similar to a structure disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,186,702 to the inventor herein.

As with the primary wave attenuation device 12, the apertures 26′ formed in the outer walls 20′ of the one or more secondary wave attenuation devices 14 have a tapered circumferential configuration, at least partially defined by an outer periphery 27 of the circumference being larger than the inner periphery 27′ of the same aperture 26′. Similarly, the access opening 18′ formed in the upper end 18 of the one or more secondary wave attenuation devices 14 have a similarly constructed and configured tapered circumferential configuration as that of the apertures 26′. Further, the different sizes of the outer and inner peripheries 27 and 27′ of a circumference of a given aperture 26′ should define a taper of the circumference of no less than 5°. Also, in one embodiment each of the plurality of apertures 26′ comprise a three sided or substantially triangular configuration. As should be apparent and as described relative to the openings 26, the tapered configuration of the circumference of the plurality of apertures 26′ defines a fluid flow therethrough, such as into and through the hollow interior 17′ and therefrom possibly through the access opening 18′ of the upper end 18 of the secondary wave attenuation device 14, at an increased velocity. This is due at least in part to the fact that the tapered circumferential configuration of each of the openings 26 and apertures 26′ results in an inflow of fluid therethrough at a somewhat increased pressure and/or velocity. Similarly, and in cooperation therewith, the tapered circumferential configuration in the access opening 18′ in the upper end 18 of the secondary wave attenuation system allows for increased fluid flow through the access opening 18′, which attenuates any horizontal fluid flow/wave energy that comes over the top of the secondary wave attenuation device 14. This favorable characteristic renders the primary wave attenuation device 12 effective when submerged.

Further, the angular orientation of each of the plurality of outer walls 20 is more specifically defined by an angularly converging orientation thereof extending from the base 16 to the upper end 18, wherein the angle of orientation will preferably be between 85° and 35°. However, the angular orientation of the plurality of outer walls 20′ of the secondary wave attenuation device 14 are preferably equal to one another and preferably equal to the converging angular orientation of the sidewalls 20 of the one or more primary wave attenuation devices 12. However, in certain practical applications, the degree of angular orientation of the sidewalls 20 and the outer walls 20′ may not necessarily be equal.

As set forth above and represented in FIGS. 1 and 6, the operative position of one embodiment of the wave attenuation structure 10 comprises at least one, but more practically, a plurality of primary wave attenuation devices 12 and at least one, but more practically, a plurality of secondary wave attenuation devices 14 collectively disposed in a preferred, predetermined disposition relative to one another and relative to the shoreline 100. In at least one embodiment, the operative position comprises each of at least a majority of the plurality of secondary wave attenuation devices 14 disposed between different adjacent ones of the plurality of primary wave attenuation devices 12, concurrent to the plurality of primary wave attenuation devices 12 disposed and aligned with one another relative to a shoreline 100 or area intended to be protected, as clearly represented in FIG. 6.

With primary reference to FIGS. 1, 6, 12 and 13, a preferred and/or predetermined operative position of at least one embodiment of the wave attenuation structure 10 includes a plurality of the primary wave attenuation devices 12 disposed in aligned relation to one another. Such an aligned relation may comprise the back wall 22 of at least a majority of the plurality and/or at least adjacent ones of the primary wave attenuation devices 12 being disposed in substantially coplanar relation to one another and in a protective position relative to the associated shoreline 100. Such aligned, coplanar relation may be established by the unattached positioning of the plurality of primary wave attenuation devices 12. In the alternative and as represented in FIGS. 12 and 13, the back walls 22 thereof may be structured to include slots, channels, recesses, etc. 23 extending at least partially or entirely along the length of opposite, outer longitudinal peripheral edges of the back wall 22. A connecting insert 25 or like structure may be disposed within such slots, channels, etc. 23 of adjacent ones of the aligned back walls 22, thereby serving to interconnect adjacent ones of the corresponding primary wave attenuation devices 12.

In more specific terms, each of the connecting inserts 25 may include oppositely disposed peripheral sides 27 and a substantially centrally located tongue or brace member 29 disposed therebetween and extending outwardly therefrom. Further, as represented in FIG. 12 the tongue or brace member 29 may have a convergent configuration extending from a bottom end 25′ to an oppositely disposed top end 25″. It is also to be noted that when inserted as represented in FIG. 13, the length of the connecting insert 25 may be equal to the length of the interconnected recesses, channels 23′ and/or be greater than the length of the connected recesses or channels 23′. Moreover, when the length of the inserts 25 are greater than the length of the interconnected channels, recesses 23′ the lowermost end of the inserts 25 may penetrate or extend into the supporting bottom surface 200, thereby adding additional stability and/or facilitating at least semipermanent installation (not shown for purposes of clarity).

It is also to be noted that the “aligned relation” of the back walls 22 of the primary wave attenuation devices 12, when operatively positioned, may be disposed to collectively correspond to the contour of the shoreline 100. Therefore, in situations where the shoreline 100 may be curved or otherwise not oriented in a substantially straight-line configuration, as in FIG. 6, and when adjacent ones of the primary wave attenuation devices 12 are interconnected by inserts 25 as represented in FIGS. 12 and 13, the “aligned relation” of the back walls 22 may be other than in coplanar relation, due to the fact that the plurality of back walls 22 may correspond to the curved or other configuration/contour etc. of the shoreline 100. In situations where the “aligned relation” comprises interconnected back walls 22 by the inserts 25, and further wherein the back walls 22 are not planar, but rather curved or otherwise shaped to conform to a nonlinear shoreline, the inserts may have the opposite sides 27 be correspondingly or cooperatively configured, such as being curved, angularly oriented, etc. relative to one another.

Concurrently, when the back walls 22 are in the noted aligned relation to one another, the preferred operative position of the wave attenuation structure 10 further comprises the angularly oriented sidewalls 20 extending outwardly from the respective ones of the back walls 22 in a common direction, away from the associated shoreline 100. As such, angularly oriented sidewalls 20 of adjacent ones of the plurality of primary wave attenuation devices 12 will be disposed in at least partially spaced relation to one another. Such spacing is due, at least in part, to the length of the back wall 22 having a length sufficient to accomplish such spacing. In addition, such spacing between the primary wave attenuation devices 12, when in the operative position of FIGS. 1 and 6 is also due in part to the aforementioned angular orientation of confronting sidewalls 20 of next adjacent primary wave attenuation devices 12.

The preferred operative position of the wave attenuation structure 10 further comprises each of at least a majority of the secondary wave attenuation devices 14 disposed between different adjacent but spaced apart ones of the primary wave attenuation devices 12. When so disposed, the “innermost” outer walls 20′ of the secondary wave attenuation device 14 are disposed in confronting relation to the sidewalls 20 of the next adjacent primary wave attenuation devices 12. It is of note that the term “confronting relation” or its equivalent, as specifically related to the relative disposition of the sidewalls 20 and outer walls 20′ of the primary and secondary wave attenuation devices 12 and 14 is meant to describe a face-to-face, disposition thereof, while still being spaced from one another, due at least in part to the angular orientations of both the sidewalls 20 of the primary wave attenuation devices 12 and the outer walls 20′ of the secondary wave attenuation devices 14.

As also set forth herein, the unique attenuating features of wave energy is due, at least in part, to the free fluid flow of water between the primary and secondary wave attenuation devices 12 and 14 and through the respective hollow interiors 17 and 17′ thereof. In addition, such free flow of water through the apertured construction of the sidewalls 20 and outer walls 20′ respectively of the primary and secondary wave attenuation devices 12 and 14 directs the wave energy in several directions which results in a minimal contact with the supporting bottom as well as protecting shoreline areas disposed adjacent the ends of the wave attenuation structure of the present invention.

Moreover, such free flow between and through the primary and secondary wave attenuation devices 12 and 14 is due, at least in part, to the alignment of the plurality of at least and/or preferably three openings 26 in each of the angularly oriented sidewalls 20 and the apertures 26′ in the angularly oriented outer walls 20′, as represented throughout the Figures. To accomplish such alignment, the plurality of openings 26 in the sidewalls 20 of the primary wave attenuation devices 12 are disposed in a predetermined array and/or disposition, which is essentially equal to or common with an array of the plurality of at least three apertures 26′ formed in the outer walls 20′ of the next adjacent secondary wave attenuation device 14. The substantially equal, common and/or congruent arrays of the plurality of openings 26 and apertures 26′ are evident from a collective review of FIGS. 1-5. Moreover, such alignment is further facilitated, in at least some embodiments, by the height of the adjacently positioned primary and secondary wave actuation devices 12 and 14 being substantially the same, concurrent to the adjacently disposed sidewalls 20 and outer walls 20′ being in the aforementioned “confronting” or face-to-face, yet spaced relation to one another.

With reference to at least FIG. 4, structural modification of the secondary wave attenuation devices 14 as well as the primary wave attenuation devices 12 may include corrugated outer surfaces of the outer walls 20′ and/or sidewalls 20. More specifically and with specific reference to FIG. 4 corrugations on the outermost or exposed outer wall generally indicated as 26″ include the integrated corrugations running substantially horizontally and/or substantially parallel to the base 16′ and the upper end 18. In contrast, outer walls 20′ which are disposed in confronting relation with the sidewalls 20 of adjacently disposed primary wave attenuation devices 12, concurrent to an operative positioning of the wave attenuation structure 10, as set forth above will include substantially vertically oriented corrugations as represented. In cooperation there with, the outer surfaces of the angularly oriented sidewalls 20 of the primary attenuation device 12 may also be corrugated, wherein integrated corrugations are preferred to run in a substantially vertical orientation.

At least one practical application of the embodiment of at least FIGS. 1-7, of the wave attenuation structure 10, may be associated with roadbuilding and more specifically the ability to accomplish elevation as well as protection of a roadway. By way of nonlimiting example, the existence of an east to west causeway, bordered along its length on opposite sides thereof by bodies of water, may be flooded during storm or other harsh weather conditions. Such flooding may occur if in fact the causeway is at a lower elevation of generally about 2 feet, which may be a substantially common elevation in certain geographical areas. Practically applying the wave attenuation structure 10 such that the plurality of primary wave attenuation devices 12 are disposed on opposite longitudinal sides (north and south sides) of the causeway are oriented such that the back wall 22 thereof oriented towards and/or in boarding relation to the corresponding longitudinal sides of the causeway. Concurrently, the converging sidewalls of the primary wave attenuation devices 12 extend outwardly therefrom towards the corresponding bodies of water. In cooperation therewith, the secondary wave attenuation devices 14 are also located exteriorly of the primary wave attenuation devices 12 adjacent or towards the corresponding bodies of water. Such practical application will result in an effective trough being created and extending between the wave attenuation structures 10 bordering on opposite sides of the causeway and in general alignment with the causeway itself. Further by way of example, if the wave attenuation structure 10, including at least the oppositely disposed plurality of primary wave attenuation devices 12 have a height of generally about 5 feet, the created trough between the bordering wave attenuation structures 10 could be lined with geo-grid matting and filled with stone, soil, other appropriate filling material, etc. and subsequently paved or provided with a hard top layer, including concrete. As a result, the causeway and/or a replacement roadway would be raised to a preferred height which would eliminate or significantly restrict the aforementioned flooding conditions.

Yet another embodiment of the wave attenuation structure is generally indicated as 50 in FIGS. 8-11. This embodiment comprises a primary wave attenuation device 52 having a hollow interior and further structurally characterized by an outer curved surface 54 and an inwardly position surface, generally indicated as 56 characterized by different substantially planar segments 58, 59, 60, etc. as clearly represented in FIG. 11 the planar segments 58-60 are disposed in an offset relation to one another. Further both the outer exposed surface 54 and the inner surfaces of the planar segments 58 and 60 include a plurality of openings or apertures 62 corresponding in structure, partial disposition and configuration to the openings 26 and apertures 26′ formed respectively in the sidewalls 20 and outer walls 20′. Moreover, each of the plurality of openings or apertures 62 also include a circumferential configuration having a tapered orientation, which in turn is defined by an outer periphery of the respective circumferences being greater than the inner periphery thereof, thereby being structurally equivalent to the openings 26 and apertures 26′ of the primary and secondary wave attenuation devices 12 and 14. In cooperation therewith the embodiment of FIGS. 8-11 also include at least one but more practically a plurality of secondary attenuation devices 114 which may be equivalent in dimension, configuration and size (dependent on the site of installation) to that of the secondary wave attenuation devices 14 in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-6.

As perhaps best represented in FIG. 8 a plurality of at least two of the secondary wave attenuation devices 114 may be disposed such that angularly oriented sides 120 are disposed in confronting relation to angularly oriented sides 58′ and 60′ of planar segments 58 and 60. It is of note that both the angularly oriented sides 120 and the angular oriented sides 58′ and 60′ of planar segments 58 and 60 include respectively apertures 126′ disposed in substantially aligned relation with the apertures are opening 62, as clearly represented. Moreover, the embodiment of at least FIG. 8 may include additional secondary wave attenuation devices 114′ which are disposed in confronting relation with the intermediate secondary wave attenuation devices 114 rather than the angularly oriented surfaces 58′ and 60′ of the primary wave attenuation device 52.

As set forth herein, the unique attenuating features of wave energy accomplished by the one or more embodiments of the present invention is due, at least in part, to the free fluid flow of water between the primary and secondary wave attenuation devices 12 and 14 and through the respective hollow interiors thereof. Such established and intended free fluid flow results in the wave energy being deflected in, away from the supporting bottom surface and opposite ends in different directions. As a result, scouring of the supporting bottom as well as the shoreline adjacent the opposite ends is significantly reduced. However, one feature of the embodiment of FIGS. 8-11 is the effective elimination of scouring specifically, but not exclusively, about the ends of the primary wave attenuation structure 52 due, at least in part to the curved outer surface 54. Such curved configuration of the outer surface 54 facilitating such elimination of scouring may also be known as or define an “End Effect”, which facilitates the attenuation of wave energy such that wave and/or fluid flow is directed outwardly and away from the natural shorelines adjacent opposite ends of the embodiment of FIGS. 8-11, thereby reducing and/or eliminating bottom scour.

In addition, such free flow of water through the apertured construction of the sidewalls and outer walls respectively of the primary and secondary wave attenuation devices directs the wave energy in several directions which results and a minimal contact with the supporting bottom as well as protecting shoreline areas disposed adjacent the ends of the wave attenuation structure of the present invention.

Since many modifications, variations and changes in detail can be made to the described preferred embodiment of the invention, it is intended that all matters in the foregoing description and shown in the accompanying drawings be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. Thus, the scope of the invention should be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.

WAVE ENERGY ATTENUATION STRUCTURE

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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

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