US20170096197A1 - Suction stabilized floats - Google Patents
Suction stabilized floats Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20170096197A1 US20170096197A1 US15/383,258 US201615383258A US2017096197A1 US 20170096197 A1 US20170096197 A1 US 20170096197A1 US 201615383258 A US201615383258 A US 201615383258A US 2017096197 A1 US2017096197 A1 US 2017096197A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- float
- inner chamber
- water
- liquid
- chamber
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 69
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims abstract description 52
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 21
- 238000005188 flotation Methods 0.000 claims description 4
- 230000000368 destabilizing effect Effects 0.000 abstract 1
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 description 13
- 230000006641 stabilisation Effects 0.000 description 7
- 238000011105 stabilization Methods 0.000 description 7
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 4
- 239000006260 foam Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000002023 wood Substances 0.000 description 3
- 230000001133 acceleration Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000005484 gravity Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000033001 locomotion Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000005259 measurement Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000003068 static effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 210000003813 thumb Anatomy 0.000 description 2
- 230000001687 destabilization Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000006073 displacement reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000002474 experimental method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000002706 hydrostatic effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000000376 reactant Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000000087 stabilizing effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005303 weighing Methods 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- B63B35/73—
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45B—WALKING STICKS; UMBRELLAS; LADIES' OR LIKE FANS
- A45B23/00—Other umbrellas
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
- A47B37/00—Tables adapted for other particular purposes
- A47B37/04—Tables specially adapted for use in the garden or otherwise in the open air, e.g. with means for holding umbrellas or umbrella-like sunshades
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
- B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING
- B63B22/00—Buoys
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
- B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING
- B63B22/00—Buoys
- B63B22/18—Buoys having means to control attitude or position, e.g. reaction surfaces or tether
- B63B22/20—Ballast means
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
- B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING
- B63B34/00—Vessels specially adapted for water sports or leisure; Body-supporting devices specially adapted for water sports or leisure
- B63B34/50—Body-supporting buoyant devices, e.g. bathing boats or water cycles
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
- B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING
- B63B35/00—Vessels or similar floating structures specially adapted for specific purposes and not otherwise provided for
- B63B35/34—Pontoons
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
- E02B—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING
- E02B3/00—Engineering works in connection with control or use of streams, rivers, coasts, or other marine sites; Sealings or joints for engineering works in general
- E02B3/04—Structures or apparatus for, or methods of, protecting banks, coasts, or harbours
- E02B3/06—Moles; Piers; Quays; Quay walls; Groynes; Breakwaters ; Wave dissipating walls; Quay equipment
- E02B3/062—Constructions floating in operational condition, e.g. breakwaters or wave dissipating walls
- E02B3/064—Floating landing-stages
Definitions
- the present invention relates to floats, more particularly suction stabilized floats.
- Floats have been used through out history to support objects on water and to transport objects over water.
- Floats are usually made of buoyant materials less dense that the liquid that they are in; for example wood or foam which floats on water, but may be formed of gas (air) enclosing structures or water displacement. Stability of floats on the water has been a problem throughout history that people have attempted to solve.
- Ballast is used with many floats to achieve improved stability but has the disadvantage of adding weight to the float, especially when the float is removed from the liquid.
- Another disadvantage of ballast is that ballast needs to be suspended below the center of buoyancy of the float in the liquid and can interfere with activity below the float. Accordingly there is a need for a float that has improved stabilization without using ballast, or where used with ballast, the ballast can be reduced in size or serve an additional or alternative function.
- One embodiment of the invention is directed to floats capable of supporting objects of a predetermined weight not exceeding 150 lbs at an interface between a liquid and a gas with at least one flotation device unitary with or secured to a chamber, wherein the chamber has a first portion that is fluid tight to both gas and liquid and a second portion that is open into the liquid.
- the first and second portions are unitary or integral and the chamber is floated on the liquid after being at least partially filled with a volume of the liquid raised above the interface.
- inventions are directed to a float with at least one flotation device unitary with or secured to a chamber, wherein the chamber has a first portion that is fluid tight and a second portion adapted to be open into the liquid.
- the first and second portions are unitary or integral and the chamber is floated on the liquid after being at least partially filled with a volume of the liquid raised above the interface.
- a gas valve capable of expelling gas from the chamber is also provided.
- the liquid is water
- the gas is air
- the interface is the water line.
- the volume of liquid raised above the interface has a weight at least 25% of the total weight of the float.
- a supported object is integrated or attached to the float.
- the supported object is an umbrella.
- the float is a buoy.
- the portion of the float above the interface is flat.
- a pump capable of removing gas or aiding in the removal of gas from said chamber is integrated, permanently attached, or temporarily attached to the float.
- the supported object is an electronic device or sensor.
- the supported object is an antenna or an antenna array.
- the float is a dock.
- the dock has a connection for connecting to other docks.
- the dock is linked together with other floating docks to from a larger structure.
- the float is a pontoon.
- the float is a table with indentions for cups.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the suction stabilized float supporting an umbrella on water.
- FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the underside of the suction stabilized float.
- FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of the suction stabilized float.
- FIG. 4 is an elevational view of the suction stabilized float in water, the view taken along lines 4 - 4 of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a suction stabilized buoy.
- FIG. 6 is an elevational view of the suction stabilized buoy of FIG. 5 taken along lines 6 - 6 of FIG. 5 .
- FIG. 7 is a perspective view of multiple suction stabilized docks joined together.
- FIG. 8 is an elevational view of the suction stabilized dock of FIG. 7 taken along lines 8 - 8 of FIG. 7 .
- FIG. 1 is a suction stabilized float 1 a supporting an umbrella 3 a, while the float is floating on water 5 a.
- the float is made of buoyant material 7 a, for example foam, wood or the like, which buoyant material is sufficient to keep the float 1 a and the umbrella 3 a on or above the interface 31 a provided by the waterline.
- the buoyant material 7 a may optionally make up all or a portion of the structure of the float 1 a .
- the umbrella 3 a is attached via a tube 9 a that penetrates the chamber surface 15 a at a location 13 a least as far as an interface 17 a shown in FIGS. 2, and 4 .
- the location 13 a has thumb screws that tighten to hold the umbrella 3 a in place at a particular height, or loosen for adjustment of the umbrella height.
- the umbrella 3 a may be replaced by a different structure or object.
- the chamber surface 15 a and the buoyant material surface 14 a form the float's surface 16 a.
- the chamber surface 15 a is optionally level with the buoyant material surface 14 a, and is shown as such in FIGS. 1-4 . In other embodiments, the chamber surface 15 a may be either above or below the buoyant material surface 14 a.
- the inner chamber 19 a is fluid tight in all embodiments and has an opening 35 a opposite or below the chamber surface 15 a.
- FIG. 2 shows the underside of a suction stabilized float 1 a .
- the underside of the float 1 a comprised of the buoyant material 7 a has a groove 18 a but the underside may have other shapes.
- the boundaries of the inner chamber 19 a are defined by the inner wall 17 a and chamber top 21 a which defines the bottom of chamber surface 15 a which is shown in FIGS. 1 and 4 .
- the tube 9 a that holds umbrella 3 a penetrates the chamber top 21 a at location 13 a.
- Tube 9 a needs to extend at least the length as the inner wall 17 a to ensure maximum function of the inner chamber 19 a, but the inner chamber will still function if the tube 9 a does not extend as far as inner wall 17 a.
- the tube 9 a has opening 23 a which allows the umbrella 3 a to extend down past the end of the tube 9 a which results in increased height adjustment options.
- FIG. 3 shows a view of the float 1 a from above.
- the buoyant material 7 a is shown level with the chamber surface 15 a, but this alignment is optional.
- the tube 9 a penetrates the chamber top 15 a at location 13 a with the opening 25 a of the tube 9 a allowing the umbrella 3 a to be attached to the float 1 a.
- FIG. 4 is an elevational view of the float 1 a floating on water 5 a.
- the buoyant material 7 a is shown level with the chamber top 21 a, with the inner wall 17 a and the chamber top 21 a forming the boundaries of the inner chamber 19 a.
- the tube 9 a penetrates the chamber at location 13 a and extends below the inner wall 17 a.
- the tube 9 a has opening 23 a and 25 a though which the shaft of the umbrella 3 a passes before being secured in the tube by thumb screws.
- the water 5 a in the upper portion 27 a above the air/water interface 31 a exerts a downward force to stabilize the float 1 a .
- a gas valve is used in the float 1 a shown in FIGS. 1-4 to remove air from the inner chamber 19 a.
- FIG. 5 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the invention configured as a suction stabilized buoy 1 b .
- the exterior of the buoy 1 b has a frustoconical outer surface 33 b and a top surface 15 b.
- the inner chamber 19 b has an opening 35 b at the bottom and a fluid tight chamber top 21 b.
- a fluid tight compartment 37 b that begins at surface 15 b and extends into the inner chamber 19 b is accessible though the door 39 b on the top surface 15 b.
- the compartment 37 b is optionally in other embodiments of the invention.
- the buoy 1 b supports a structure 3 b for supporting objects.
- the structure 3 b is optional for other embodiments and may be attached, unattached to, or intergraded into the buoy 1 b .
- the objects 3 b could optionally include for example, an antenna or antenna array, electronic equipment, or other device performing a variety of functions, for example, taking measurements or collecting data, light, providing a signal, or beacon for ships or submarines, or can be a mechanical device for performing some other function.
- the buoy 1 b has a gas valve 41 b to remove gas from inner chamber 19 b allowing the inner chamber 19 b to fill with water 5 b.
- the upper portion 27 b remains above the air/water interface.
- ballasts weights 43 b are optional.
- the ballast 43 b functions to self right the buoy in the event that buoy capsizes.
- the gas valve 41 b functions to reestablish the desired head height if the seal on the gas/liquid inner chamber 19 b is lost for any reason, for example if the buoy capsizes.
- the ballast 43 b and gas valve 41 b optionally work to first self right the float 1 b and then to remove the gas from the inner chamber 19 b, thus reestablishing suction stabilization.
- FIG. 6 is an elevational view of the buoy 1 b floating on water 5 a.
- the buoyant material 7 b is sufficient to float the entire buoy 1 b and any object(s) 3 b supported by the buoy.
- the inner chamber 19 b has an opening 35 b at the bottom and a fluid tight chamber top 21 b.
- the upper portion 27 b remains above the air/water interface 31 b and an inner frustoconical portion 30 b is below the air/water interface 31 b.
- the buoy 1 b has a gas valve 41 b to remove gas from inner chamber 19 b to allow the inner chamber 19 b, and especially the upper portion 27 b thereof, to fill with water 5 b.
- the water 5 b in the upper portion 27 b of the inner chamber 19 b creates a downward force which stabilizes the buoy 1 b .
- a fluid tight compartment 37 b that begins at surface 15 b and extends into the inner chamber 19 b is accessible though the door 39 b on the top surface 15 b.
- the compartment 37 b is optionally in other embodiments of the invention.
- Ballast weights are preferably positioned at the bottom end of the frustoconical portion 29 b but may be at any location below the center of buoyancy of the buoy 1 b.
- FIG. 7 is a perspective view of multiple suction stabilized docks 1 c joined to form a larger dock structure 47 c.
- Each dock 1 c has an exterior surface 33 c that includes a top surface 15 c and sides of the dock 1 c that extends into the water 5 c.
- Each dock 1 c has at least one gas valve 41 c for removing gas from inner chamber 19 c.
- the inner chamber 19 c is defined by inner walls 17 c and inner chamber top 21 c.
- each dock 1 c also optionally has a rail 49 c that is attached or integrated into the dock at surface 15 c.
- the rails 49 c are optionally connected to one another at locations 51 c when the docks 1 c are attached to or integrated with on another at location 53 c.
- FIG. 8 is an elevational view of a single suction stabilized dock 1 b having buoyant material 7 c, for example foam, wood, contained air, or the like, sufficient to float the dock 1 c and optional object(s) (not shown) supported thereon.
- the buoyant material 7 c may optionally make up a portion or the entire the structure of the dock 1 c .
- FIG. 8 is exemplary of a dock 1 c made of buoyant material 7 c.
- the dock 1 c is an illustrated embodiment of a surface 15 c that is optionally flat and optionally supports objects that may are attached, unattached, or integrated with the dock.
- the dock 1 c optionally has a rail 49 c that is attached or integrated into the dock surface 15 c as well as an exterior surface 33 c comprising the sides of the dock 1 c which extend into the water 5 c.
- the inner chamber 19 c is defined by inner walls 17 c and inner chamber top 21 c.
- the inner chamber 19 c has an upper portion 27 c that is above the air/water interface 31 c when the dock 1 c is in water 5 c and a lower portion 29 c that is below the air/water interface 31 c when the dock is in water 5 c.
- the inner chamber top 21 c is thicker in the middle of the dock 1 c than on the sides to create two separate upper portions 27 c or a continuous perimeter.
- the inner chamber top 21 c may have different shapes with more or less than two upper portions 27 c being provided.
- the dock 1 c has gas valves 41 c to remove gas from inner chamber 19 c. This allows the inner chamber 19 c and the upper portion(s) 27 c of the inner chamber 19 c to fill with water 5 c.
- the bottom of the dock 1 c has an opening 35 c that allows the surrounding water to replace escaping air.
- the dock is used a platform or foundation for a larger structure. In various embodiments the dock is used as a foundation for a flat bottom boat.
- the invention is more generally described below. These descriptions relate to the embodiments shown in the figures which are numbered as well as to embodiments not shown and therefore not numbered. The numbers are meant to reference examples of the subject matter shown in the figures, but are not exclusive to the subject matter shown in the figures.
- the floats 1 ( a, b, c ) described herein use suction stabilization which is produced when liquid inside a partially sealed chamber 11 ( a, b, c ) that is connected to an external body of liquid 5 ( a, b, c ) is drawn above the gas/liquid interface 31 ( a, b, c ) between the external body of liquid and gas.
- the liquid in the upper portion 27 ( a, b, c ) of the inner chamber 19 ( a, b, c ) held at this higher elevation generates a downward force.
- the upward force caused by buoyancy of the float's buoyant material 7 ( a, b, c ) and the downward force generated by the elevated liquid in the upper portion 27 ( a, b, c ) of the inner chamber 19 ( a, b, c ) meet at the gas/liquid interface 31 ( a, b, c ) (where gas meets liquid) resulting in the two opposing forces stabilizing the float 1 ( a, b, c ).
- the amount of downward force generated is affected by many factors, for example, by the amount of upward force the float's buoyant material 7 ( a, b, c ) provides, the size and shape of the upper portion 27 ( a, b, c ) of the inner chamber 19 ( a, b, c ) holding the liquid above the gas/liquid interface 31 ( a, b, c ), and the weight of the liquid.
- the distance the liquid is drawn above the liquid level of the external body of liquid 5 ( a, b, c ) is optionally be referred to as head height.
- the various embodiments of this invention achieve suction stabilization relying on the previously discussed phenomenon.
- Embodiments of the invention are composed of a floatation or buoyant portion 7 ( a, b, c ) and an inner chamber 19 ( a, b, c ).
- the inner chamber 19 ( a, b, c ) is comprised of an upper portion 27 ( a, b, c ) which is above the gas/liquid interface 31 ( a, b, c ) created by the water line and a lower portion 29 ( a, b, c ) which is below the gas/liquid interface 31 ( a, b, c )
- the inner chamber portion 19 ( a, b, c ) is of equal or greater length than the floatation portion 7 ( a, b, c ).
- the floatation portion 7 ( a, b, c ) is integrated into the inner chamber 19 ( a, b, c ) and comprises all or part of the float 1 ( a, b, c ).
- the opening 35 ( a, b, c ) in the inner chamber 19 ( a, b, c ) may be at any point below the gas/liquid interface 31 ( a, b, c ), but in preferred embodiments, is at the inner chamber's 19 ( a, b, c ) lowest point.
- the inner chamber 19 ( a, b, c ) is oriented to be partially below the gas/liquid interface 31 ( a, b, c ) and partially above the gas/liquid interface 31 ( a, b, c ) with the buoyant material 7 ( a, b, c ) being sufficient to maintain this balance when the inner chamber 19 ( a, b, c ) is filled with liquid.
- ⁇ P is the hydrostatic pressure (given in Pascal's in the SI system), or the difference in pressure at two points within a fluid column, due to the weight of the fluid;
- ⁇ is the fluid density (in kilograms per cubic meter in the SI system).
- g is acceleration due to gravity (normally using the sea level acceleration due to Earth's gravity in meters per second squared);
- ⁇ h is the height of fluid above the point of measurement, or the difference in elevation between the two points within the fluid column (in meters in SI).
- the embodiments of the invention function in a body of liquid 5 ( a, b, c ).
- the gas from the inner chamber 19 ( a, b, c ) is expelled and replaced by liquid.
- This can be accomplished through a variety of methods the following example.
- the entire float 1 ( a, b, c ) is submerged under liquid 5 ( a, b, c ) with the opening 35 ( a, b, c ) facing upward toward the surface.
- the float 1 ( a, b, c ) is rotated under the liquid so that the opening is now facing downward, away from the surface of the liquid.
- the float 1 ( a, b, c ) is then allowed to float to the surface with this same orientation.
- This method is preferable in smaller floats 1 a for example floats that require 150 lbs of force or less to submerge for example: 1 lb, 2 lbs, 3 lbs, 4 lbs, 5 lbs, 10 lbs, 15 lbs, 20 lbs, 30 lbs, 40 lbs, 50 lbs, 60 lbs, 70 lbs, 80 lbs, 90 lbs, 100 lbs, 110 lbs, 120 lbs, 130 lbs, 140 lbs, or 150 lbs.
- An alternative method is to use a gas valve 41 ( b, c ) to expel the gas from the chamber while the float 1 ( a, b, c ) is in the liquid 5 ( a, b, c ) with the opening 35 ( a, b, c ) under liquid facing downward, away from the surface.
- This gas will be replaced by liquid from the surrounding body of liquid 5 ( a, b, c ).
- This method may be used in floats of all sizes, but it is particularly advantageous with larger floats 1 ( b, c ) as the amount of force required to sink the float 1 ( b, c ) is usually substantial.
- a ballast 43 b is attached or integrated into the float 1 ( a, b, c ) to provide extra stabilization and additionally act to self right the float 1 ( a, b, c ) in the event that the float 1 ( a, b, c ) capsizes.
- the float is a moving watercraft wherein the opening to the inner chamber can be selectively opened and closed.
- any gas in the inner chamber is expelled via an air valve and replaced by liquid.
- the liquid in the inner chamber acts as resistance to the movement of the watercraft and can be utilized in regular or emergency braking of the watercraft.
- Inner chambers placed off the center line of the watercraft can be utilized when turning the watercraft by providing resistance to the side of the watercraft that is the same as the direction of the turn. For example when turning right, the watercraft opens the inner chamber positioned on the right side of the watercraft.
- the water in the inner chamber provides resistance on the right side of the watercraft and on the inside of the turn which allows the watercraft to turn more sharply.
- the float 1 ( a, b, c ) optionally has a flat top surface.
- the top surface may be curved, higher or lower along the edges, or a variety of different shapes.
- the inner chamber 19 ( a, b, c ) and buoyant material 7 ( a, b, c ) may be various sizes or shapes, but the buoyant material 7 ( a, b, c ) can not be so long or so buoyant as to lift any part of the opening to the inner chamber 19 ( a, b, c ) out of the liquid 5 ( a, b, c ).
- the inner chamber 19 has a compartment 37 b, container, or canister that is optionally gas/liquid tight so as to be accessed through an opening on the surface which optionally has a door 39 b, or in other embodiments, the compartment may be accessed through an opening in the bottom, which optionally has a door.
- the tube 9 a does not destroy or damage the seal of the gas/liquid tight inner chamber 19 ( a, b, c ).
- objects are secured to the float via the tube 9 a, for example the umbrella 3 a.
- the gas is air and the liquid is water 5 ( a, b, c ).
- the float 1 ( a, b, c ) is a foundation or a platform for an object 3 ( a, b, c ).
- the object 3 ( a, b, c ) can be a structure that is attached or unattached to the float.
- the object 3 ( a, b, c ) can be a living or nonliving thing.
- the float's surface 16 a can functions as a table and may optionally contain grooves or indentions for cups, plates, and/or other items used on a table.
- the float 1 a is a foundation for a human float.
- the float 1 ( a, b, c ) can support multiple attached or integrated objects 3 ( a, b, c ), unattached objects 3 ( a, b, c ), or a combination of both.
- the float is a pontoon.
- a pontoon is a floating structure used in many watercrafts and on some aircrafts designed to optionally take off and land on water.
- the pontoon is on the bottom portion of the air/watercrafts and allows them to float on the liquid.
- the pontoons of the claims of the invention are optionally made of buoyant material and are open or have an open portion in or along the bottom portion of the pontoon. The opening allows liquid from the surrounding body of liquid to fill the inner chamber while gas is expelled through a valve on the pontoon float.
- the liquid inside the pontoon is held above the liquid of the surrounding body of liquid and thus creates a downward force which stabilizes the float.
- Using water instead of conventional ballast also has the advantage of utilizing the adhesion and cohesion properties of water to further stabilize the float.
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Ocean & Marine Engineering (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
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Abstract
Floats having a buoyant portion and a chamber portion hold liquid within their chambers above the interface of the surrounding body of liquid and gas which creates a downward force which stabilizes the float. If the liquid is water, the float holds water in the inner chamber which is disposed above the waterline of the body of water in which the float is suspended. The elevated water exerts a downward force that acts against rocking, swaying, and other destabilizing forces.
Description
- This application claims the benefit of the filing date of U.S. Pat. No. 13/242,489 which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/392,755 filed Oct. 13, 2010, both of which are incorporated by reference herein.
- The present invention relates to floats, more particularly suction stabilized floats.
- Floats have been used through out history to support objects on water and to transport objects over water. Floats are usually made of buoyant materials less dense that the liquid that they are in; for example wood or foam which floats on water, but may be formed of gas (air) enclosing structures or water displacement. Stability of floats on the water has been a problem throughout history that people have attempted to solve. Ballast is used with many floats to achieve improved stability but has the disadvantage of adding weight to the float, especially when the float is removed from the liquid. Another disadvantage of ballast is that ballast needs to be suspended below the center of buoyancy of the float in the liquid and can interfere with activity below the float. Accordingly there is a need for a float that has improved stabilization without using ballast, or where used with ballast, the ballast can be reduced in size or serve an additional or alternative function.
- One embodiment of the invention is directed to floats capable of supporting objects of a predetermined weight not exceeding 150 lbs at an interface between a liquid and a gas with at least one flotation device unitary with or secured to a chamber, wherein the chamber has a first portion that is fluid tight to both gas and liquid and a second portion that is open into the liquid. The first and second portions are unitary or integral and the chamber is floated on the liquid after being at least partially filled with a volume of the liquid raised above the interface.
- Other embodiments of the invention are directed to a float with at least one flotation device unitary with or secured to a chamber, wherein the chamber has a first portion that is fluid tight and a second portion adapted to be open into the liquid. The first and second portions are unitary or integral and the chamber is floated on the liquid after being at least partially filled with a volume of the liquid raised above the interface. A gas valve capable of expelling gas from the chamber is also provided.
- In one aspect of the invention the liquid is water, the gas is air, and the interface is the water line.
- In another aspect of the invention the volume of liquid raised above the interface has a weight at least 25% of the total weight of the float.
- In another aspect of the invention a supported object is integrated or attached to the float.
- In another aspect of the invention the supported object is an umbrella.
- In another aspect of the invention the float is a buoy.
- In another aspect of the invention the portion of the float above the interface is flat.
- In another aspect of the invention a pump capable of removing gas or aiding in the removal of gas from said chamber is integrated, permanently attached, or temporarily attached to the float.
- In another aspect of the invention the supported object is an electronic device or sensor.
- In another aspect of the invention the supported object is an antenna or an antenna array.
- In another aspect of the invention the float is a dock.
- In another aspect of the invention the dock has a connection for connecting to other docks.
- In another aspect of the invention the dock is linked together with other floating docks to from a larger structure.
- In another aspect of the invention the float is a pontoon.
- In another aspect of the invention the float is a table with indentions for cups.
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the suction stabilized float supporting an umbrella on water. -
FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the underside of the suction stabilized float. -
FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of the suction stabilized float. -
FIG. 4 is an elevational view of the suction stabilized float in water, the view taken along lines 4-4 ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a suction stabilized buoy. -
FIG. 6 is an elevational view of the suction stabilized buoy ofFIG. 5 taken along lines 6-6 ofFIG. 5 . -
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of multiple suction stabilized docks joined together. -
FIG. 8 is an elevational view of the suction stabilized dock ofFIG. 7 taken along lines 8-8 ofFIG. 7 . -
FIG. 1 is a suction stabilizedfloat 1 a supporting anumbrella 3 a, while the float is floating onwater 5 a. The float is made ofbuoyant material 7 a, for example foam, wood or the like, which buoyant material is sufficient to keep thefloat 1 a and theumbrella 3 a on or above theinterface 31 a provided by the waterline. Thebuoyant material 7 a may optionally make up all or a portion of the structure of thefloat 1 a. Theumbrella 3 a is attached via atube 9 a that penetrates thechamber surface 15 a at alocation 13 a least as far as aninterface 17 a shown inFIGS. 2, and 4 . Thelocation 13 a has thumb screws that tighten to hold theumbrella 3 a in place at a particular height, or loosen for adjustment of the umbrella height. In other embodiments theumbrella 3 a may be replaced by a different structure or object. The chamber surface 15 a and thebuoyant material surface 14 a form the float'ssurface 16 a. Thechamber surface 15 a is optionally level with thebuoyant material surface 14 a, and is shown as such inFIGS. 1-4 . In other embodiments, thechamber surface 15 a may be either above or below thebuoyant material surface 14 a. Theinner chamber 19 a is fluid tight in all embodiments and has anopening 35 a opposite or below thechamber surface 15 a. -
FIG. 2 shows the underside of a suction stabilizedfloat 1 a. In the illustrated embodiment, the underside of thefloat 1 a comprised of thebuoyant material 7 a has agroove 18 a but the underside may have other shapes. The boundaries of theinner chamber 19 a are defined by theinner wall 17 a andchamber top 21 a which defines the bottom ofchamber surface 15 a which is shown inFIGS. 1 and 4 . Thetube 9 a that holdsumbrella 3 a penetrates thechamber top 21 a atlocation 13 a.Tube 9 a needs to extend at least the length as theinner wall 17 a to ensure maximum function of theinner chamber 19 a, but the inner chamber will still function if thetube 9 a does not extend as far asinner wall 17 a. Thetube 9 a has opening 23 a which allows theumbrella 3 a to extend down past the end of thetube 9 a which results in increased height adjustment options. -
FIG. 3 shows a view of thefloat 1 a from above. Thebuoyant material 7 a is shown level with thechamber surface 15 a, but this alignment is optional. Thetube 9 a penetrates thechamber top 15 a atlocation 13 a with the opening 25 a of thetube 9 a allowing theumbrella 3 a to be attached to thefloat 1 a. -
FIG. 4 is an elevational view of thefloat 1 a floating onwater 5 a. Thebuoyant material 7 a is shown level with thechamber top 21 a, with theinner wall 17 a and thechamber top 21 a forming the boundaries of theinner chamber 19 a. Thetube 9 a penetrates the chamber atlocation 13 a and extends below theinner wall 17 a. Thetube 9 a has opening 23 a and 25 a though which the shaft of theumbrella 3 a passes before being secured in the tube by thumb screws. When thefloat 1 a is in use on thewater 5 a anupper portion 27 a of theinner chamber 19 a is above the air/water interface 31 a and alower portion 29 a of theinner chamber 19 a is below the air/water interface 31 a. Thewater 5 a in theupper portion 27 a above the air/water interface 31 a exerts a downward force to stabilize thefloat 1 a. Optionally, a gas valve is used in thefloat 1 a shown inFIGS. 1-4 to remove air from theinner chamber 19 a. -
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the invention configured as a suction stabilizedbuoy 1 b. The exterior of thebuoy 1 b has a frustoconicalouter surface 33 b and atop surface 15 b. Theinner chamber 19 b has anopening 35 b at the bottom and a fluid tight chamber top 21 b. InFIG. 5 a fluidtight compartment 37 b that begins atsurface 15 b and extends into theinner chamber 19 b is accessible though thedoor 39 b on thetop surface 15 b. Thecompartment 37 b is optionally in other embodiments of the invention. In various embodiments of the invention using abuoy 1 b, thebuoy 1 b supports astructure 3 b for supporting objects. Thestructure 3 b is optional for other embodiments and may be attached, unattached to, or intergraded into thebuoy 1 b. Theobjects 3 b could optionally include for example, an antenna or antenna array, electronic equipment, or other device performing a variety of functions, for example, taking measurements or collecting data, light, providing a signal, or beacon for ships or submarines, or can be a mechanical device for performing some other function. Thebuoy 1 b has agas valve 41 b to remove gas frominner chamber 19 b allowing theinner chamber 19 b to fill with water 5 b. Theupper portion 27 b remains above the air/water interface. - As is seen in
FIG. 5 attached in proximity to the open lower end of thefrustoconical portion 29 b of thebuoy 1 b areballasts weights 43 b. In other configurations of the invention, theballasts weights 43 b are optional. In the embodiments of the invention using abuoy 1 b that hasballast 43 b, theballast 43 b functions to self right the buoy in the event that buoy capsizes. In the embodiments where the buoy has agas valve 41 b, thegas valve 41 b functions to reestablish the desired head height if the seal on the gas/liquidinner chamber 19 b is lost for any reason, for example if the buoy capsizes. In this event, theballast 43 b andgas valve 41 b optionally work to first self right thefloat 1 b and then to remove the gas from theinner chamber 19 b, thus reestablishing suction stabilization. -
FIG. 6 is an elevational view of thebuoy 1 b floating onwater 5 a. Thebuoyant material 7 b is sufficient to float theentire buoy 1 b and any object(s) 3 b supported by the buoy. Theinner chamber 19 b has anopening 35 b at the bottom and a fluid tight chamber top 21 b. Theupper portion 27 b remains above the air/water interface 31 b and an innerfrustoconical portion 30 b is below the air/water interface 31 b. Thebuoy 1 b has agas valve 41 b to remove gas frominner chamber 19 b to allow theinner chamber 19 b, and especially theupper portion 27 b thereof, to fill with water 5 b. The water 5 b in theupper portion 27 b of theinner chamber 19 b creates a downward force which stabilizes thebuoy 1 b. A fluidtight compartment 37 b that begins atsurface 15 b and extends into theinner chamber 19 b is accessible though thedoor 39 b on thetop surface 15 b. Thecompartment 37 b is optionally in other embodiments of the invention. Ballast weights are preferably positioned at the bottom end of thefrustoconical portion 29 b but may be at any location below the center of buoyancy of thebuoy 1 b. -
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of multiple suction stabilized docks 1 c joined to form alarger dock structure 47 c. Each dock 1 c has anexterior surface 33 c that includes atop surface 15 c and sides of the dock 1 c that extends into thewater 5 c. Each dock 1 c has at least onegas valve 41 c for removing gas frominner chamber 19 c. Theinner chamber 19 c is defined byinner walls 17 c andinner chamber top 21 c. In the illustrated embodiment each dock 1 c also optionally has arail 49 c that is attached or integrated into the dock atsurface 15 c. Therails 49 c are optionally connected to one another atlocations 51 c when the docks 1 c are attached to or integrated with on another atlocation 53 c. -
FIG. 8 is an elevational view of a single suction stabilizeddock 1 b havingbuoyant material 7 c, for example foam, wood, contained air, or the like, sufficient to float the dock 1 c and optional object(s) (not shown) supported thereon. Thebuoyant material 7 c may optionally make up a portion or the entire the structure of the dock 1 c.FIG. 8 is exemplary of a dock 1 c made ofbuoyant material 7 c. The dock 1 c is an illustrated embodiment of asurface 15 c that is optionally flat and optionally supports objects that may are attached, unattached, or integrated with the dock. The dock 1 c optionally has arail 49 c that is attached or integrated into thedock surface 15 c as well as anexterior surface 33 c comprising the sides of the dock 1 c which extend into thewater 5 c. Theinner chamber 19 c is defined byinner walls 17 c andinner chamber top 21 c. Theinner chamber 19 c has anupper portion 27 c that is above the air/water interface 31 c when the dock 1 c is inwater 5 c and alower portion 29 c that is below the air/water interface 31 c when the dock is inwater 5 c. InFIG. 8 theinner chamber top 21 c is thicker in the middle of the dock 1 c than on the sides to create two separateupper portions 27 c or a continuous perimeter. In other embodiments theinner chamber top 21 c may have different shapes with more or less than twoupper portions 27 c being provided. The dock 1 c hasgas valves 41 c to remove gas frominner chamber 19 c. This allows theinner chamber 19 c and the upper portion(s) 27 c of theinner chamber 19 c to fill withwater 5 c. The bottom of the dock 1 c has anopening 35 c that allows the surrounding water to replace escaping air. In various embodiments the dock is used a platform or foundation for a larger structure. In various embodiments the dock is used as a foundation for a flat bottom boat. - The invention is more generally described below. These descriptions relate to the embodiments shown in the figures which are numbered as well as to embodiments not shown and therefore not numbered. The numbers are meant to reference examples of the subject matter shown in the figures, but are not exclusive to the subject matter shown in the figures. The floats 1(a, b, c) described herein use suction stabilization which is produced when liquid inside a partially sealed chamber 11(a, b, c) that is connected to an external body of liquid 5 (a, b, c) is drawn above the gas/liquid interface 31(a, b, c) between the external body of liquid and gas. The liquid in the upper portion 27(a, b, c) of the inner chamber 19(a, b, c) held at this higher elevation generates a downward force. The upward force caused by buoyancy of the float's buoyant material 7 (a, b, c) and the downward force generated by the elevated liquid in the upper portion 27 (a, b, c) of the inner chamber 19(a, b, c) meet at the gas/liquid interface 31(a, b, c) (where gas meets liquid) resulting in the two opposing forces stabilizing the float 1(a, b, c). The amount of downward force generated is affected by many factors, for example, by the amount of upward force the float's buoyant material 7(a, b, c) provides, the size and shape of the upper portion 27(a, b, c) of the inner chamber 19(a, b, c) holding the liquid above the gas/liquid interface 31(a, b, c), and the weight of the liquid. The distance the liquid is drawn above the liquid level of the external body of liquid 5(a, b, c) is optionally be referred to as head height. The various embodiments of this invention achieve suction stabilization relying on the previously discussed phenomenon.
- Embodiments of the invention are composed of a floatation or buoyant portion 7(a, b, c) and an inner chamber 19(a, b, c). The inner chamber 19(a, b, c) is comprised of an upper portion 27(a, b, c) which is above the gas/liquid interface 31(a, b, c) created by the water line and a lower portion 29(a, b, c) which is below the gas/liquid interface 31(a, b, c) In the various embodiments of the invention the inner chamber portion 19(a, b, c) is of equal or greater length than the floatation portion 7(a, b, c). In various embodiments of the invention, the floatation portion 7(a, b, c) is integrated into the inner chamber 19(a, b, c) and comprises all or part of the float 1(a, b, c). The opening 35(a, b, c) in the inner chamber 19(a, b, c) may be at any point below the gas/liquid interface 31(a, b, c), but in preferred embodiments, is at the inner chamber's 19(a, b, c) lowest point. The purpose of this is to ensure that the opening 35(a, b, c) remains in the liquid 5(a, b, c) when the float 1(a, b, c) is in use. In all embodiments of the invention the inner chamber 19(a, b, c) is oriented to be partially below the gas/liquid interface 31(a, b, c) and partially above the gas/liquid interface 31(a, b, c) with the buoyant material 7(a, b, c) being sufficient to maintain this balance when the inner chamber 19(a, b, c) is filled with liquid.
- The embodiments of the invention function using the application of Pascal's law which states as follow,
-
ΔP=ρg(Δh) - where
- ΔP is the hydrostatic pressure (given in Pascal's in the SI system), or the difference in pressure at two points within a fluid column, due to the weight of the fluid;
- ρ is the fluid density (in kilograms per cubic meter in the SI system);
- g is acceleration due to gravity (normally using the sea level acceleration due to Earth's gravity in meters per second squared);
- Δh is the height of fluid above the point of measurement, or the difference in elevation between the two points within the fluid column (in meters in SI).
- The application of this law means when the liquid in the inner chamber 19(a, b, c) is raised above the gas/liquid interface of the external body of liquid 5(a, b, c), the raised volume of liquid will exert a downward force equal to its weight. In the embodiments of the invention that downward force acts against any destabilization forces, for example rocking or swaying motions and thus serve to stabilize the float 1(a, b, c).
- The embodiments of the invention function in a body of liquid 5(a, b, c). Once in a body of liquid, the gas from the inner chamber 19(a, b, c) is expelled and replaced by liquid. This can be accomplished through a variety of methods the following example. The entire float 1(a, b, c) is submerged under liquid 5(a, b, c) with the opening 35(a, b, c) facing upward toward the surface. Once the gas escapes from the inner chamber 19(a, b, c), the float 1(a, b, c) is rotated under the liquid so that the opening is now facing downward, away from the surface of the liquid. The float 1(a, b, c) is then allowed to float to the surface with this same orientation. This method is preferable in
smaller floats 1 a for example floats that require 150 lbs of force or less to submerge for example: 1 lb, 2 lbs, 3 lbs, 4 lbs, 5 lbs, 10 lbs, 15 lbs, 20 lbs, 30 lbs, 40 lbs, 50 lbs, 60 lbs, 70 lbs, 80 lbs, 90 lbs, 100 lbs, 110 lbs, 120 lbs, 130 lbs, 140 lbs, or 150 lbs. - An alternative method is to use a gas valve 41(b, c) to expel the gas from the chamber while the float 1(a, b, c) is in the liquid 5(a, b, c) with the opening 35(a, b, c) under liquid facing downward, away from the surface. This gas will be replaced by liquid from the surrounding body of liquid 5(a, b, c). This method may be used in floats of all sizes, but it is particularly advantageous with larger floats 1(b, c) as the amount of force required to sink the float 1(b, c) is usually substantial. In some embodiments of the invention, a
ballast 43 b is attached or integrated into the float 1(a, b, c) to provide extra stabilization and additionally act to self right the float 1(a, b, c) in the event that the float 1(a, b, c) capsizes. - In some embodiments of the invention the float is a moving watercraft wherein the opening to the inner chamber can be selectively opened and closed. When open, any gas in the inner chamber is expelled via an air valve and replaced by liquid. The liquid in the inner chamber acts as resistance to the movement of the watercraft and can be utilized in regular or emergency braking of the watercraft. Inner chambers placed off the center line of the watercraft can be utilized when turning the watercraft by providing resistance to the side of the watercraft that is the same as the direction of the turn. For example when turning right, the watercraft opens the inner chamber positioned on the right side of the watercraft. The water in the inner chamber provides resistance on the right side of the watercraft and on the inside of the turn which allows the watercraft to turn more sharply.
- The larger the volume of liquid in the upper portion 27(a, b, c) (drawn above the gas/liquid interface 31(a, b, c)) the more downward force is created. Stabilization of the float 1(a, b, c) in liquid is a product of this downward force. Increased stabilization is achieved if the volume of liquid in the upper portion 27(a, b, c) has a larger width and depth to height ratio, but the embodiments in this invention can be any functional shapes or configurations.
- In other embodiments of the invention the float 1(a, b, c) optionally has a flat top surface. In various other embodiments the top surface may be curved, higher or lower along the edges, or a variety of different shapes. The inner chamber 19(a, b, c) and buoyant material 7(a, b, c) may be various sizes or shapes, but the buoyant material 7(a, b, c) can not be so long or so buoyant as to lift any part of the opening to the inner chamber 19(a, b, c) out of the liquid 5(a, b, c).
- In some embodiments the inner chamber 19(a, b, c) has a
compartment 37 b, container, or canister that is optionally gas/liquid tight so as to be accessed through an opening on the surface which optionally has adoor 39 b, or in other embodiments, the compartment may be accessed through an opening in the bottom, which optionally has a door. In some embodiments there is atube 9 a that penetrates the float 1(a, b, c) and extends into the inner chamber 19(a, b, c). Thetube 9 a does not destroy or damage the seal of the gas/liquid tight inner chamber 19(a, b, c). In some embodiments objects are secured to the float via thetube 9 a, for example theumbrella 3 a. - In various embodiments of the invention the gas is air and the liquid is water 5(a, b, c).
- In various embodiments of the invention the float 1(a, b, c) is a foundation or a platform for an object 3(a, b, c). The object 3(a, b, c) can be a structure that is attached or unattached to the float. The object 3(a, b, c) can be a living or nonliving thing. In one embodiment the float's
surface 16 a can functions as a table and may optionally contain grooves or indentions for cups, plates, and/or other items used on a table. In another embodiment thefloat 1 a is a foundation for a human float. In other embodiments of the invention the float 1(a, b, c) can support multiple attached or integrated objects 3(a, b, c), unattached objects 3(a, b, c), or a combination of both. - In some embodiments of the invention the float is a pontoon. A pontoon is a floating structure used in many watercrafts and on some aircrafts designed to optionally take off and land on water. The pontoon is on the bottom portion of the air/watercrafts and allows them to float on the liquid. The pontoons of the claims of the invention are optionally made of buoyant material and are open or have an open portion in or along the bottom portion of the pontoon. The opening allows liquid from the surrounding body of liquid to fill the inner chamber while gas is expelled through a valve on the pontoon float. The liquid inside the pontoon is held above the liquid of the surrounding body of liquid and thus creates a downward force which stabilizes the float.
- Using water instead of conventional ballast also has the advantage of utilizing the adhesion and cohesion properties of water to further stabilize the float.
- An experiment was conducted to calculate the static force created by a 30″ diameter float. The float was put into water and the air within was purged. The 30″ diameter circular Suction Stabilized Device resulted in 2⅛″ of fluid (water) being raised above the interface (surface of water). This volume was calibrated to contain 3.25 gallons of water. Water weighing approx. 8.34540 pounds per gallon equals a static force created of 27.122 pounds.
- Without further elaboration, it is believed that one skilled in the art can, using the preceding description, utilize the present invention to its fullest extent. The preceding preferred specific embodiments are, therefore, to be construed as merely illustrative, and not limitative of the remainder of the disclosure in any way whatsoever.
- The preceding examples can be repeated with similar success by substituting the generically or specifically described reactants and/or operating conditions of this invention for those used in the preceding examples.
- From the foregoing description, one skilled in the art can easily ascertain the essential characteristics of this invention and, without departing from the spirit and scope thereof, can make various changes and modifications of the invention to adapt it to various usages and conditions.
Claims (6)
1-20. (canceled)
21. A float suitable for supporting objects on water comprising:
at least one flotation device comprising a buoyant material of a size sufficient to support at least 10 pounds above a waterline, wherein said flotation device is unitary with or secured to an inner chamber wherein the inner chamber comprises a chamber top and a inner wall secured or unitary with the chamber top, wherein the inner chamber is open only on a side opposite to the chamber top, and wherein the inner chamber is adapted to be at least partially filled with a volume of the water thereby creating suction which is sufficient to raise the water in the inner chamber above a waterline, and wherein the water raised above the waterline remains in connection with the water of the waterline,
wherein the suction stabilized float has only one inner chamber, and
wherein the float additionally comprises an umbrella wherein the umbrella is attached to the chamber top via a tube that penetrates the chamber top but maintains a gas and liquid tight seal with the chamber top.
22. The float of claim 21 wherein the volume of water raised above the waterline weights at least 25% of the total weight of said float.
23. The float of claim 22 wherein the float additionally comprises an air valve adapted for expelling air from the inner chamber.
24. The float of claim 21 which additionally comprises a pump capable of removing gas or aiding in the removal of gas from said inner chamber.
25. The float of claim 2 wherein the float is a table.
Priority Applications (1)
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US15/383,258 US20170096197A1 (en) | 2010-10-13 | 2016-12-19 | Suction stabilized floats |
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US39275510P | 2010-10-13 | 2010-10-13 | |
US13/242,489 US10239590B2 (en) | 2010-10-13 | 2011-09-23 | Suction stabilized floats |
US15/383,258 US20170096197A1 (en) | 2010-10-13 | 2016-12-19 | Suction stabilized floats |
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US13/242,489 Continuation US10239590B2 (en) | 2010-10-13 | 2011-09-23 | Suction stabilized floats |
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US20170096197A1 true US20170096197A1 (en) | 2017-04-06 |
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ID=45932965
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US13/242,489 Active 2035-12-18 US10239590B2 (en) | 2010-10-13 | 2011-09-23 | Suction stabilized floats |
US15/383,258 Abandoned US20170096197A1 (en) | 2010-10-13 | 2016-12-19 | Suction stabilized floats |
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US13/242,489 Active 2035-12-18 US10239590B2 (en) | 2010-10-13 | 2011-09-23 | Suction stabilized floats |
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US9028288B2 (en) * | 2013-02-10 | 2015-05-12 | Jeffrey Lovett | Floating mounting base for an umbrella |
US9648930B1 (en) | 2016-03-29 | 2017-05-16 | Jaime Mejia | Floatable umbrella with self-ballasting member |
US11122780B2 (en) * | 2017-10-12 | 2021-09-21 | Carson A. Bryant | Apiary system and method of use |
CN108945308B (en) * | 2018-05-24 | 2024-01-05 | 国家海洋局南海调查技术中心 | Self-unloading torque power generation fixed-point observation buoy and self-unloading torque fixed-point observation buoy thereof |
US11745838B2 (en) * | 2019-05-23 | 2023-09-05 | Sean A. Barnes | Boat lift construct |
CN110606170A (en) * | 2019-10-10 | 2019-12-24 | 南京航空航天大学 | Floating body structure in water area |
US11612241B2 (en) * | 2020-10-07 | 2023-03-28 | Ojusberrcal Llc | Portable and stackable umbrella stand and table and methods of use thereof |
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US1840324A (en) * | 1929-09-17 | 1932-01-12 | Carl J Lindquist | Airship sea beacon and service station |
US1908714A (en) | 1930-07-15 | 1933-05-16 | Schneider Anton | Floating isle, floating bridge, floating dock, and similar construction |
US3097622A (en) | 1962-02-13 | 1963-07-16 | Muirhead & Co Ltd | Stabilization of floating bodies |
US3301209A (en) * | 1964-12-01 | 1967-01-31 | Bajamar Of Houston | Submersible vessels |
US3376588A (en) * | 1965-10-24 | 1968-04-09 | Chicago Bridge & Iron Co | Buoy with buoyancy produced by liquefied gas vaporization |
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GB1579191A (en) * | 1976-02-19 | 1980-11-12 | Varitrac Ag | Stabilizing system on a semi-submerisible crane vessel |
FR2409187A1 (en) | 1977-11-22 | 1979-06-15 | Iceberg Transport Int | AUTOSTABLE FLOATING TOWER |
FR2449764A1 (en) | 1979-02-23 | 1980-09-19 | Alsthom Atlantique | SUPPORT STRUCTURE OF INDUSTRIAL EQUIPMENT, CAPABLE OF SERVING FLOATING BARGE AND FOUNDATION, AND METHOD FOR IMPLEMENTING SAME |
GB8405689D0 (en) * | 1984-03-05 | 1984-04-11 | Heerema Eng Service Bv | Semi-submersible crane vessel |
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2016
- 2016-12-19 US US15/383,258 patent/US20170096197A1/en not_active Abandoned
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US10239590B2 (en) | 2019-03-26 |
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