Is Excessive Buoyancy a Problem for a 4m x 4m Floating Platform?

[1945270]

Hello everyone,

I am considering a project which involves buoyancy. The core component of the product is 4 meters by 4 meters (squared, solid platform) and approximately 30 cm high. This platform is supposed to float on a water surface, most likely lakes. Furthermore, the platform should be able to safely carry people. I calculated that the structure could carry around 2900 kg so weight is not a concern; however, I do have some other questions.

I would basically like to know whether there is anything like "too much" buoyancy, e.g. will a very buoyant construction be volatile due to waves despite its flat shape? Secondly, I need to investigate the reaction to shifts in the center of gravity (e.g. people moving around on the platform). Do I need to pay attention to anything specific if I decide to perform a scale experiment? I would simply construct a model that parallels the platform's weight, size, and weight distribution to scale. Is this a valid approach?


Thank you for your time.

 

[berkeman]

Hello everyone,

I am considering a project which involves buoyancy. The core component of the product is 4 meters by 4 meters (squared, solid platform) and approximately 30 cm high. This platform is supposed to float on a water surface, most likely lakes. Furthermore, the platform should be able to safely carry people. I calculated that the structure could carry around 2900 kg so weight is not a concern; however, I do have some other questions.

I would basically like to know whether there is anything like "too much" buoyancy, e.g. will a very buoyant construction be volatile due to waves despite its flat shape? Secondly, I need to investigate the reaction to shifts in the center of gravity (e.g. people moving around on the platform). Do I need to pay attention to anything specific if I decide to perform a scale experiment? I would simply construct a model that parallels the platform's weight, size, and weight distribution to scale. Is this a valid approach?


Thank you for your time.

Welcome to the PF.

Sounds kind of dangerous at first glance. Will this platform have a railing? It would seem there are probably some regulations for the number of people who can be on a platform of a certain size -- are you aware of any boating/other regulations that would apply?

It also seems like you would want your main bouyancy supports around the perimeter of the platform, for best stability. What is your source of bouyancy?

 

[1945270]

Dear berkeman,

Thank you for your swift response! The structure does not have to carry many people at once, maybe a maximum of four. Moreover, the platform is not meant for transportation and will therefore not travel at high speeds. I will look into regulations when I know more about the feasibility of the project.

The source of buoyancy would be an array of plastic cylinders (please see the attached picture for an example). They can be placed anywhere underneath the platform. Placing them close to the edge would yield greatest stability?