Zigloo Designs proposes the Gyre, a structure part ocean research laboratory, port, sky-scraper, hotel, resort. Reaching depths of 400m, Gyre would reach into the depths of the sea the equivalent of the Empire State Buildings height. The “deepscraper” would possess a small carbon footprint. “Its unique design permits the simultaneous application of wind, solar, and tidal energy generation technologies thereby making it truly ‘off-grid’.” The radial arms, containing both a pedestrian promenade and a transit system, would form a protected inner harbor large enough to accommodate multiple large ships.
But the intent for the deepest portion of the Gyre is what captures my attention. “The deepest levels are dedicated to a scientific observatory for oceanographic research and an Interpretive Center for public discovery of the depths of the ocean.” Add a seedy Irish pub and a large stock of Guinness to the lower levels and the DSN crew will wholly endorse this project.
How does a floating city exploit tidal power?
I prefer the design of the SeaOrbiter: http://www.seaorbiter.com/The+Project , with a healthy dose of the technologies discussed over at http://seasteading.org/ .
perhaps instead of tidal power, it would be easiest to deploy several wave snakes.
While we’re contemplating futuristic designs: http://www.gizmowatch.com/entry/futuristic-submarine-inspired-by-jellyfish/
one more, while we’re at it: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KStcCuo4m8E
Guinness? No way, they’d lower down Kelpie.
But – omg – so much square footage for the generation of fouling communities for study. Oh, the experiments that could be done…