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THE GRAVITY RAM
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The Barnacle Support Structure
The float structure is stabilised by enclosing it within the shroud, forming the flotation chamber of the piston
- see General Arrangement
In order to provide a secure foundation in the working environment, I provide a Barnacle Support Structure. This stabilises the Gravity Ram against the flow of the tides, storm surges etc., so that the device is able operate within the design tolerances imposed by the sealing system under all conditions.
The Gravity Ram is positioned inside a cylinder, made up from concrete sections. This partial collar is perforated to allow the natural flow, in and out, of sea water and is surrounded by a rockfill cone, ensuring a secure anchorage on the sea bed.
Barnacle Support Structure
Installation Cross-section - Low Water
Installation Cross-section - High Water
Installation - Plan View
Variations
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Barnacle Support Structure
Rockfill Cone Around Perforated Cylinder
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Key
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Installation: Cross-Section at Low Water
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Installation: Cross-Section at High Water
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Installation: Plan View
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Key
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Cupola
Surface of Barnacle
Submerged Wall of Barnacle
- Outer Perimeter |
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Variations
There can be many sophisticated variations on the basic theme of the gravity ram to
suit different circumstances. For example, the cupola and piston assembly can be made
hollow and filled either with rubble or with sea water to give the required weight.
Similarly, a system of valves can be incorporated to allow the cupola/piston to drain
at the bottom of its cycle so that it can be easily supported at high water, thus allowing ease
(and safety) of access for maintenance work (every decade or so).
Generators can be installed on top of the cupola and pressurised water taken out
through the piston thus obviating the need tor long, high pressure pipelines to shore.
Power can then be stored in accumulators and harvested at will
Small desalination plants can be similarly located.
Barnacle "atolls" can be located on/near remote islands thus supplying all their power needs.
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