University Court of Glasgow Caledonian University

Martin Cullen

A flexible water gate is described that is suitable for retaining water in a port, canal or river estuary. The gate is both economical to build and maintain and comprises a gate controller that allows a flexible member to be controllably moved between a closed and open position, as required. A flexible flood control barrier that comprises one or more of the aforementioned flexible water gates is also described. These gates are deployed side to side and provide an economical way of providing flood protection to an area susceptible to flood tides. When not in use the flexible membranes of the flexible water gates can be stored on the riverbed so permitting unrestricted access for marine vessels.

Flexible water gate

An improved watertight gate for use in a port or canal is described. The watertight gate generally comprising two gate leaves and associated with each gate leaf is a foldable support structure and a gate position controller. The gate position controller interacts with the foldable support structure so as to move the associated gate leaf between an open and a closed position. By employing the gate position controller and the foldable support structure to control the gates the efficiency of the watertight seal provided by the gate is independent of water pressure produced by the surrounding bodies of water. Adjustable mounts attach the foldable support structures. These adjustable mounts provide for adjustment of the alignment of the watertight gate so minimizing the problems of installation alignment and reduced efficiency through wear and tear.

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Glasgow, United Kingdom

Martin Cullen