Two water filled tubes or columns placed side by side will assume their natural shapes. If pressure is applied to one side, the water is displaced in the first tube and causes it to roll. As the first tube rolls, it pushes on the second tube moving the water from one side to the other and the two tubes roll together.
     The AquaDam® is able to offer a stable wall by containing two water columns in a single outer tube. The contained water columns are unable to assume their natural position and form a vertical wall in the middle as they press against each other. The pressure inside the tubes applies a substantial force to both sides of this vertical wall.
pg6-3.jpg (13075 bytes)

     As water begins to build on one side of the structure the inner tube naturally tries to roll. However, the friction between the vertical walls of the inner tubes and between the inner and outer tubes opposes the rolling tendency and the structure remains fixed.

Why it works– Analysis

In order for the AquaDam® to move as a result of the pressure exerted on one side, it must either be tipped over or slide across the surface on which it rests.

Symbols Legends:
D = Width of AquaDam®
H = Head of water
W = Weight of water in an inner tube
P = Pressure
F = Force
p = Density of fluid
g = Gravitational constant
SF = Safety factor

Tipping:
    Consider first the case of tipping. In order to tip, the water pressure must lift the first inner tube up and over the second.

   The following analysis shows the AquaDams®' resistance to tipping.

Pages: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15