Publication date: 
2020/12/07
Stress tests of a unique pontoon assembly with a stabilization system, enabling transport of oversized loads, took place at the Slapy Dam on Thursday, 3 December. The proposed solution is applicable in both civilian and military areas. It can be used not only to move heavy loads, for example in the reconstruction of bridge structures, but also in the maintenance of watercourses, or in dealing with emergencies. Representatives of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering of the Czech Technical University, the Government of the Czech Republic, the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the RVC, Waterways administration and other organizations and construction companies were invited to vitness the stress tests.

The project entitled "Advanced system of leveling and stabilization of active floating mobile modular system (APMMS)" was implemented with financial support from the state budget through the Ministry of Industry and Trade under the TRIO program. The solution was created in cooperation with the company Česká lodní doprava-charter, s.r.o. and the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering CTU in Prague. The TRIO program focuses mainly on the development of the Czech Republic's potential in the field of key technologies and the applicability of results in new products and services. The objectives of the Program also include strengthening effective R&D cooperation between enterprises and research organizations.

 

The main goal of the project was to find a suitable design of a pilot version of the Active Floating Mobile Modular System for transport and handling of large bodies on the water surface, from basic support modules to elements with special functions with respect to the specifics of the environment in which the device will operate.

 

Transport of APMMS is feasible by common means of transport and placement on the water surface is realized by means of a crane. One of the advantages of APMMS is the variability of the solution - the possibility of assembling modules as needed with regard to the specific purpose of use. APMMS can be used mainly in the construction and reconstruction of bridges, as well as in diagnosing the condition of bridge structures, as well as in landscaping, cleaning watercourses or reservoirs, during routine maintenance and exceptional conditions, such as floods. Pontoons can also be used to transport heavy machinery, which is needed in constructions carried out from the water surface. Furthermore, it will be possible to use APMMS as a floating device for civilian purposes, such as an exhibition area, a stage for musical performances and other cultural events. For military purposes, it can be used for engineering bridge structures and temporary buildings.

 

Due to the absence of a similar system in the Czech and European markets, the implementation of the project can be expected to significantly strengthen competitiveness in this field. The system meets the requirements of strict safety standards for river floating equipment and complies with applicable environmental legislation. This is a significant assistance in solving repairs and replacements of a number of bridges in a state of emergency throughout the Czech Republic, and at the same time pontoons can be used as a reserve for unexpected natural disasters.

 

Photo source: Facutly of Mechanical Engineering, CTU

Picture

Picture

Picture

Picture

Picture