Abstract:
A system and method for maintaining and/or reclaiming sand or stone levels of a beach or shoreline for the purpose of mitigating erosion. The beach maintenance system preferably includes a series of support members, flexible webbing stretched between each support member, an anchoring system, and a discharge system. Primary support members preferably form a line generally orthogonal to the shoreline. Preferably, this array of support members spans from a point inland from the high tide line to a point further into the water than, the low tide boundary. In addition to support members running perpendicular to the shoreline, smaller arrays of support, members are preferably aligned generally parallel or tangent to the first array. Preferably, each of this group of arrays span the shoreline such that there is a series of webbing groups running parallel to the shoreline.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This non-provisional patent application claims the benefit of an earlier-filed provisional patent application. The provisional application was assigned serial number 62/016,771. It was filed on Jun. 25, 2014. 
       STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT 
       [0002]    Not Applicable 
       MICROFICHE APPENDIX 
       [0003]    Not Applicable 
     
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0004]    1. Field of the Invention 
         [0005]    This invention relates to the field of maintaining and preventing erosion of beaches and shorelines. More specifically, the invention comprises a series of support members with a flexible, porous barrier, such as webbing, running between each support member in order to accrete sand, pebbles, and other natural materials in transport due to wind or wave energy. 
         [0006]    2. Description of the Related Art 
         [0007]    Beaches and shorelines around the world are an integral part of human society. Beaches serve as natural attractions, foster tourism, and contribute to economies, as well as provide protection for critical ecosystems and valuable property. Local and greater economies, such as cities and even states, depend greatly on the presence of beaches, and the associated natural environments. These coastal environments are critical in protecting and maintaining coastal and aquatic systems, to support habitats and food chains, tourism, storm protection, and recreation. 
         [0008]    Shorelines and beaches are greatly endangered due to several different factors. Coastal erosion, being an ever present threat, has increased due to natural influences such as rising sea levels and storm events, as well as, due to human interference such as seawall construction, beach sand mining, and overdevelopment. 
         [0009]    Currently, approximately forty percent of the worlds&#39; population lives within 100 kilometers of the coast. Therefore, it is critical that an innovative, natural solution be found to help mitigate the impacts of coastal erosion in a manner that is compatible and works in conjunction with the natural environment. 
         [0010]    Previous methods of beach restoration or coastal protection, such as dredging, hauling in non-native sand, seawalls, or riprap were not effective over time, were costly, and sometimes caused extensive ecological damage. 
         [0011]    Due to tidal and climatological influences, coastal regions are very dynamic. Technology such as dredging or hauling in non-native sand is costly and does little to mitigate the overall impact of erosion. The proposed system mitigates the impact of erosion by reclaiming native sand lost to local systems. 
         [0012]    Therefore, what is needed is a system which allows for maintenance of beaches utilizing a sustainable, soft technology consisting of a non-permanent structure and webbing that is installed parallel and perpendicular to the shoreline, and works in conjunction with nature and its processes. The present invention achieves this objective, as well as others that are explained in the following description. 
       BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0013]    The present invention comprises a system and method for reclaiming and/or maintaining sand, stone, or natural materials, natural or indigenous to beaches or shorelines affected by erosion. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the beach maintenance system includes a series of support members, flexible webbing stretched between each support member, an anchoring system, and a discharge system. One arrangement of support members preferably forms a line generally orthogonal to the shoreline. Preferably, this array of support members spans from a point above the high tide line (inland from the high tide line) to a point beyond the low tide line (further into the water at various distances), sometimes extending to oceanic ridges, according to project design. Webbing stretches between each support member in order to capture or recapture natural materials in transport, which are suspended in the water or air, and are caused to fail out of suspension when, wind or wave load is reduced as a result of encountering the perpendicular line of support members and webbing, ultimately causing the natural/indigenous material to accrete in a native formation, pattern or slope ratio, in addition to support members running perpendicular to the shoreline, smaller arrays of support members are preferably aligned generally parallel or tangent to the shoreline (perpendicular to the first line of support members). These parallel arrays are attached to the orthogonal array at various locations along the first array. The smaller arrays are utilized to capture or recapture wind-blown or water-spray sand, which falls out of suspension when, encountering the smaller array, and accretes in a native formation or pattern. 
         [0014]    Preferably, each of this group of arrays span the shoreline such that there is a series of webbing groups running parallel to the shoreline. Thus, the series of perpendicular arrays of support members and webbing facilitates an accretion, of sand, pebbles, and other natural materials in order to maintain the structure of the beach, preserve habitats, and mitigate erosion. 
         [0015]    The system is modeled after nature, both in structural, design and processes. Specifically, the system is modeled after the function of mangrove roots, creating a support structure which naturally accretes sand and protects critical habitats. This system also emulates the natural pattern that coastal systems follow in accretion and erosion processes, it reclaims native sand transported and lost off-shore in storm events. Over a great length, of time the system eventually migrates and repopulates a beach. However, this system works with nature to speed recovery processes which occur following periods of disturbance. Because this system is not a permanent structure, and is flexible in nature, the “soft” groynes are extended off-shore to the nearest sand ridge before, during, or after periods of disturbance. This soft solution to coastal erosion works with natural processes occurring as a result of severe weather, and is deployed or removed to capitalize on natural conditions in order to recapture native sand sources, quickly rebuilding beaches, and protecting habitats and property. Additionally, this system works with and allows nature to build the beach in a natural formation, or slope ratio. 
         [0016]    Given that coastal erosion is an ongoing, permanent influence on mankind and critical ecosystems, it is important that a sustainable solution be found. 
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS 
       [0017]      FIG. 1  is a perspective view, showing the present invention. 
         [0018]      FIG. 2  is an elevation view, showing the embodiment of  FIG. 1 . 
         [0019]      FIG. 3A  is a plan view, showing the accretion of natural materials caused by the installation of the present invention. 
         [0020]      FIG. 3B  is a perspective view, showing the accretion of natural materials caused by the installation of the present invention. 
         [0021]      FIG. 4  is an elevation view, showing the extended webbing panel. 
         [0022]      FIG. 5  is an elevation view, showing an alternate form of the anchoring system of the present invention. 
         [0023]      FIG. 6  is a perspective view, showing a discharge system of the present invention which uses a reservoir. 
         [0024]      FIG. 7  is a perspective view, showing a discharge system of the present invention which uses a pump. 
         [0025]      FIG. 8  is a detailed view, showing initiation of the discharge system of the present invention. 
         [0026]      FIG. 9  is an elevation view, showing the present invention as it is discharged from the accreted natural materials. 
     
    
     REFERENCE NUMERALS IN THE DRAWINGS 
       [0027]      10  beach maintenance system 
         [0028]      12  accretion array 
         [0029]      14  primary accretion array 
         [0030]      16  oceanic ridge 
         [0031]      18  low tide boundary 
         [0032]      20  high tide boundary 
         [0033]      22  secondary accretion array 
         [0034]      24  support member 
         [0035]      26  support line 
         [0036]      28  webbing 
         [0037]      30  anchoring line 
         [0038]      32  beach 
         [0039]      34  buried end 
         [0040]      36  natural particulate materials 
         [0041]      38  extended array 
         [0042]      40  extended support member 
         [0043]      42  eyebolt 
         [0044]      44  water spray 
         [0045]      46  body of water 
         [0046]      48  sand 
         [0047]      50  reservoir 
         [0048]      52  reservoir tubing 
         [0049]      54  valve 
         [0050]      56  pump 
         [0051]      58  nozzle array 
         [0052]      60  nozzle 
         [0053]      62  new beach level 
       DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION  
       [0054]    The present invention provides a maintenance system to be used for the accretion of sand, small pebbles, and other natural materials on a beach.  FIG. 1  shows a preferred embodiment. Beach maintenance system  10  comprises a series of accretion arrays  12 . Although only three accretion arrays  12  are illustrated, the number of accretion arrays  12  can be much greater or be limited to a single array. The reader will note that the number of accretion arrays  12  is dependent upon the stretch of beach or shoreline which the user would like to maintain. Each accretion array  12  preferably includes primary accretion array  14 . Preferably, primary accretion array  14  is generally perpendicular to the shoreline. The reader will note that a shoreline will generally not be perfectly linear or make a curve with a constant radius. Thus, the term “generally” should be construed as primary array  14  being perpendicular to the average curvature or line, or the general curvature of the shoreline at that point. As the reader can see from  FIG. 1 , oceanic ridge  16 , low tide boundary  18 , and high tide boundary  20  are not perfectly linear or curved. In this instance, shoreline can be assumed to be the low tide line or high tide line. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, primary array  14  extends from a point inland of high tide boundary  20  to a point between oceanic ridge  16  (in the case of maintenance of an oceanic beach or shoreline) and low tide boundary  18 . Of course, the span of primary array  14  depends on the amount of beach to be maintained. 
         [0055]    In addition to primary array  14 , accretion array  12  preferably includes secondary accretion array  22 . At least one secondary accretion array  22  is preferably attached to each primary accretion array  14 . Secondary accretion array  22  is attached to primary array  14  whereby an angle between 0 and 180 degrees is formed. Preferably, secondary arrays  22  are perpendicular (90 degree angle) to primary array  14  and vary in length, as illustrated. The details of each array are discussed in further detail in the subsequent text. 
         [0056]      FIG. 2  shows a side elevation view of a portion of primary array  14 . In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, primary array  14  includes support members  24 , support line  26 , webbing  28 , and anchoring line  30 . In order to erect beach maintenance system  10 , support members  24  are driven into the beach  32 . Preferably, support members  24  are forced into beach  32  deep enough such that accretion array  12  remains upright during use. Although support member  24  is shown as shaft with a circular cross-section, support member  24  can take many forms. For example, support member  24  may include multiple members in order to increase stability or support member  24  may include smaller members that extend radially from the buried end  34  of support member  24 . Anchoring line  30  preferably rests on the surface of beach  32 , as shown. Anchoring line  30  is preferably used in order to maintain the structure of webbing  28  proximate beach  32 . In order to maintain this structure, anchoring line  30  is preferably attached to webbing  28 . In the figure, anchoring line  30  is a chain with torus shaped links. Preferably, the chain is constructed from stainless or galvanized steel or a material that is similar in weight and resistance to corrosion. Those familiar with the art will note that although a steel chain is a cheap, easy, and convenient means to anchor webbing  28 , many other techniques can be used for anchoring line  30 . Some examples of alternatives for anchoring line  30  include metal or plastic tubing, heavy-duty wire, discrete weights attached to the lower portion of webbing  28  (proximate beach  32 ), and other similar techniques. 
         [0057]    While anchoring line  30  maintains the structure of webbing  28  proximate beach  32 , support line  26  and support members  24  preferably keep webbing  28  upright. Although webbing is shown in a horizontal configuration, the webbing can also be configured diagonally or lattice-like in design. Preferably, webbing  28  is attached to support line  26 . In addition, support line  26  is preferably connected to the upper end (hot buried end) of support member  24 . Those familiar with the art will note that there are multiple means which can be used to attach support line  26  to support member  24 . One such technique is to mount eyebolts to the top end of each support member  24 . Then, support line  26  is preferably inserted through each eyebolt which would keep support line  26 , and consequently, webbing  28  upright. The eyebolts may be threaded into support member  24  or preferably manufactured integral to the support members. 
         [0058]    In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, support line  26  is fabricated from a heavy duty, corrosive-resistant material. Preferably, webbing  28  is constructed from cotton, nylon, plastic, or another flexible, interwoven, porous material that is capable of withstanding a harsh, environment such as large, crashing waves of seawater. The porosity of webbing  28  can be optimized depending on the maintenance site and other research acquired by the installers of the system. In addition, support member  24  is preferably constructed from a strong, corrosion-resistant material such as galvanized steel, in fact, those familiar with the art will realize that it is important for most materials which are used in beach, maintenance system  10  to be able to withstand a certain level of corrosion and harshness in the environment. The reader will note that much of beach maintenance system  10  is submerged underwater during the accretion process. Thus, it is preferable to provide corrosive-resistant materials for the system, especially in the case of oceanic beaches which are exposed to seawater. 
         [0059]    The reader will note that  FIG. 2  shows both a fine porosity and a more course porosity of webbing  28 . The material of webbing  28 , as discussed in the preceding text, is preferably-capable of withstanding extended, time underwater, including seawater. The porosity of webbing  28  depends on the beach for which maintenance system  10  is installed. For example, if beach maintenance system  10  is installed on a rocky beach, a more course webbing  28  would be sufficient. Whereas, a beach with fine powder sand requires a very fine mesh for webbing  28 . 
         [0060]      FIG. 3A  is a top view of beach maintenance system  10  which shows the accretion of natural materials caused by each accretion array  12 . Although the type of natural materials accumulated by using accretion arrays  12  depends on the type of beach in which the system is implemented, in order to demonstrate the occurrence of the accumulation, small rocks, pebbles, smaller particles (sand), sticks, and larger rocks are shown. Accretion of natural particulate materials  36  occurs on either side of primary array  14  and on each side of secondary arrays  22 . The reader will note, as stated above, that the structure and porosity of the webbing determine the composition of the natural particulate materials  36 . In the figure, many types of natural particulate materials  36  are illustrated. The reader will also note that the length of secondary array  22  becomes larger as the primary array  14  stretches further inland, which is opposite  FIG. 1 . The purpose of this is to illustrate that the invention is not limited to any specific length progression for secondary array  22 , in fact each array  22  can be of equal length. Preferably, as waves roll onto the beach and the tides change, webbing  28  (not visible from this perspective) allows natural particulate materials  36  to accrete as shown, thereby increasing the amount of sand, pebbles, or other natural materials present on the beach or shoreline. The reader will note that a portion of beach maintenance system  10  is preferably submerged under body of water  46  during the maintenance process. 
         [0061]      FIG. 3B  shows a perspective view of accretion array  12  installed on a primarily sandy beach as sand  48  is accreted. As illustrated, sand  48  has accumulated along accretion array  12 . Preferably, webbing  28  allows sand  48  to accrete proximate primary array  14  and secondary array  22 . The reader will note that sand  48  has accumulated to a level above the original level of beach  32  which is illustrated by a dashed line. Once sand  48  or natural particulate materials  36  have reached the desired level, the user can remove accretion array  12 . The method of removing accretion array  12  is discussed in the subsequent text. 
         [0062]      FIG. 4  shows an additional feature of the beach maintenance system  10 . As illustrated, extended array  38  is attached to extended support member  40 . Extended support member  40  is preferably attached to support member  24 . The reader will note that there are multiple techniques in which one can attach extended support member  40  to support member  24 —such as threaded pipes, a telescopic tube and pin system, or any other attachment means known in the art for two tubes. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, extended array  38  includes support line  26  and webbing  28 , which are utilized in the same fashion as those components on primary array  14 . Preferably, extended array  38  is used to catch any sea spray which may have sand particles or other natural particulate materials  36  that are traveling in the air, thereby increasing the effectiveness of the present inventive system by capturing particles in the air and driven by sea spray. 
         [0063]    In addition to extended array  38 ,  FIG. 4  shows that secondary array  22  is affixed to the ground in the same manner as primary array  14 —using support members  24  driven into the beach  32 . Also, eyebolt  42  is shown (without support line  26 ) in order to demonstrate one possible embodiment for fastening support line  26  to support member  24 . In this embodiment, support line  26  (not shown in this view) runs through eyebolt  42 . As those familiar with the art will realize, eyebolt  42  allows 360 degrees of rotation. Thus, support line  26  can flex laterally if necessary. This is helpful if a large accumulation of sand  48  or natural materials  36  is pressing against webbing  28  in a single direction, if the connection between support member  24  and support line  26  were rigid, this may cause support member to fall. However, the rotation provided by eyebolt  42  is helpful in preventing this. 
         [0064]      FIG. 5  shows another anchoring system of the present invention. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, anchoring line  30  is tubing which is used both to anchor the system and easily remove it. The tubing (tube) can be flexible or rigid, but it is preferably flexible. The tubing is preferably made of flexible, but moderately stiff tubing that can handle relatively high pressures if necessary. Anchoring line  30  is installed such that it rests upon beach  32  or seafloor. However, upon accretion of natural particulate materials  36  upon and surrounding accretion array  12 , support member  24 , the lower section of webbing  28 , and anchoring line  30  become buried with natural particulate materials  36 . This makes the removal of accretion array  12  increasingly difficult as it accumulates more sand and other natural materials. 
         [0065]    Once the user is satisfied with the level of accumulated sand and natural materials, beach maintenance system  10  is ready to be removed. In order to remove accretion array  12  more easily, anchoring line  30  is tilled, with pressurized water. Filling anchoring line  30 , and in this case the discharge line, with pressurized water can be achieved in several ways.  FIG. 6  shows one method of filling anchoring line  30  with water in order to discharge beach maintenance system  10 . In this embodiment, reservoir  50  is tilled with water. The user then connects reservoir tubing  52  to anchoring line  30 . Once reservoir tubing  52  is connected to anchoring line  30 , the system is ready for discharge. Preferably, reservoir  50  includes valve  54  which can be opened in order to fill anchoring line  30  with water. Those familiar with the art will note that reservoir  50  can take many forms. Although reservoir  50  is shown as a large stationary tank, reservoir  50  can be tank located on a truck, a group of smaller tanks, a water source provided by a water tap near the beach, or any other available source of water. 
         [0066]      FIG. 7  shows a preferred embodiment of beach maintenance system  10 . Beach maintenance system  10  preferably includes pump  56 . In this embodiment, water is pumped into anchoring line  30  from body of water  46  using pump  56 . This allows the user to utilize the vast amount of wafer already located at the location of maintenance system  10  as opposed to bring water from another location. Pump  56  is preferably a submersible pump. As pump  56  forces water into anchoring line  30 , water fills and pressurizes anchoring line  30 . As illustrated, nozzle arrays  58  are preferably located along anchoring line  30 . Preferably, nozzle  60  is a normally closed typed nozzle which is activated (opened) by a certain pressure threshold. This would allow water pressure to build within anchoring line  30  as pump  56  forces water into line  30 . The advantage to using a nozzle  60  with a pressure threshold is that water is present throughout anchoring line  30 . Thus, once the correct pressure is reached, water will spray from each nozzle array  58 . Otherwise, water would spray from the arrays  58  which are closest to pump  56 . 
         [0067]      FIG. 8  shows a detailed view of the discharging process once anchoring line  30  has reached a sufficient pressure. The reader will note that as the discharge of accretion array  12  is initiated, the level of beach  32  is such that anchoring line and the lower portion of webbing  28  are buried. As discussed in the preceding text, water may be pumped into anchoring line  30  or water can flow from a reservoir into anchoring line  30 . With either method, water spray  44  exits nozzle  60 . This liquefies the sand or rocks surrounding anchoring line  30  and support member  24 . As illustrated in  FIG. 9 , this allows the user to easily remove accretion array  12 . By liquefying the sand, rocks, and other natural materials the support members  24  are easily pulled upward out of beach  32 . The reader will note that the new level of beach  62  is above the original level of beach  32 , Thus, beach maintenance system  10  has limited erosion and increased the sand, rocks and other natural materials located on the beach. 
         [0068]    The preceding description contains significant detail regarding the novel aspects of the present invention. It should not be construed, however, as limiting the scope of the invention but rather as providing illustrations of the preferred embodiments of the invention. Thus, the scope of the invention should be fixed by the following claims, rather than by examples given.