Connecting Modular Floating Structures

Abstract

The changing climate results in increasing water problematics for the Netherlands; too much water at one moment and water shortage at another. An answer to these water problematics is water storage, which could be realised with more surface water. However, more space for water conflicts with other area-claims. Building on water is an answer to this conflict of interests. This is one of the reasons why building on water has taken a flight in the Netherlands. Connections in between floating structures are for the Dutch construction industry still a rather unmapped territory. In this thesis a general survey is done on building on water with all relevant issues. Connections have been researched more elaborately. With a case study of a floating pavilion this knowledge has been applied. Case study floating pavilion The floating pavilion, with dimensions of 24x46 metres, has already been constructed, but it has been constructed in one piece. In this thesis a structural design has been made for a modular pavilion, in a way the separate spheres should be switchable and removable. A combination of EPS and a concrete framework has been found the best floating system for the pavilion, since this results in an unsinkable and light floating body with a low draught. It appears that the concrete beams and floor of the floating body result in the largest self weight by far, so these are the main determining factors of the draught of 0,88m. The normative waves resulted in internal forces which are in the same range as the internal forces by imposed loads. It is not necessary to decrease the internal forces by movement allowing connections, thus the connections between the beams can be executed as rigid connections. Designed connection The designed connection between the floating bodies consists of the following: • Trapezoidal ridges, for self alignment and shear forces • A vertical steel pen with a wedge shaped point, for the tension connection at the bottom side. This pen will be easily to insert and to fix from the top of the floating bodies. • A longitudinal bolt as tension connector on the top side and for pre-stressing the connection. • Elastic material in between, for amongst others preventing small relative movement (which will exist by allowing deviations) and for impact damping. This design has resulted in a connection easy in execution, since it provides self alignment and only actions from the top are needed. The connection does allow tolerances but will still provide a very rigid connection, since it can be tightened.