Today’s hottest job market for mariners is Offshore Oil and Gas but this is by no means the only controversial industry segment which presents opportunities to mariners. Like exploratory drilling, Offshore wind farms have also raised controversy among industry experts but presents unique job opportunities for those looking for more than the average liner run. Today we look at the 5 most interesting wind turbine designs.
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Tags: · alternative energy, energy_technology, Environment, future, wind, wind_farm
A Mobile Offshore Base (MOB), in theory, is a number of independently propelled semisubmersible modules that can be easily deployed to areas in need of military assistance. It’s primary functions would be providing a landing platform for fixed and rotary wing aircraft and stowage and transport of military cargo and personnel. The size of the base would be virtually unlimited since each module is completely self-sustaining with personnel housing, equipment maintenance functions, cargo space, and logistical support. An full MOB platform could range from a single module to a number of them. GlobalSecurity.org tells us about the assembly:
Each module consists of a box-type deck supported by multiple columns on two parallel pontoons. When transiting between operational sites, the module is deballasted and travels with the pontoons on the surface much like a catamaran. When on site, the module is ballasted down so that the pontoons are submerged below the surface wave zone, thereby minimizing the wave-induced dynamic motions. The decks, which store rolling stock and dry cargo, are all located above the wave crests. The columns provide structural support and hydrostatic stability against overturning.
Well, seems like a good idea, but is it a realistic and cost effective solution? [Continue Reading →]
Tags: · engineering, future, future navy, navy_ships, Ship Design
Popular Science brings us Future Navy Ships – Littoral Combat Ship. They write:
This is a small, fast ship (capable of 45 knots) for sub-hunting, mine-clearing, and fighting small boats near coastlines—the littoral region. Each LCS would be equipped with one of three distinct mission modules: a set of plug-and-play ship sensors, missiles, small boats, unmanned underwater vehicles and specially equipped helicopters, for mine warfare, anti-submarine warfare or surface combat. The base configuration would include antimissile batteries and a medium-caliber gun. The ships could clear mines and chase subs away from an area before the rest of the fleet arrived.
Also included in the article are three other ships designed for future combat. You can view the full article with photos HERE.
Tags: · future, future navy, LCS, Littoral Combat Ship, Navy, photos, popular science, warships
Artect.ent brings us Ocean Arcologies;
The notion of cities condensed into a singular structure or hyperstructure, has frequented works of fiction as far back as 1899 with H.G. Wells, When the Sleeper Wakes. The concept garnered wider attention seventy years later when Architect Paolo Soleri published, Arcology: The City in the Image of Man. Massive self sustaining habitats, the pliable infrastructure and small ecological footprint of arcologies avoid the damaging, inefficient urban sprawl of today’s cities and suburbia.
For more drawings and photos click HERE.
(Via BitterEnd)
Tags: · arcitecture, buildings, design, future, ocean
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