Tex’s bridge concept breaks new grounds
Bay pioneer designs unique floating structure for shifting surfaces.
RICHARDS Bay innovator Tex Neveling has created a world first – a safe floating walkway that adapts to moving surfaces or dangerous waters without hazardous flooring gap openings.
The design has been patented as distinctive for being able to change direction, both horizontally and vertically, without the serious risk posed by structures currently used in the sand mining industry.
In an interview with Neveling, he explained how the concept became a thorny project and time-consuming passion over the past six years.
‘I have always been blessed with the ability to see possible solutions.
‘As a young artisan I worked on slurry dams where the pumps were floating some distance from the shore. We then used scaffold planks on drums, which ended up with me landing in the sludge a couple of times.
‘So when I became aware of similar incidents in 2008, the idea popped back into my head again and I started developing a concept to ensure safe crossings providing uninterrupted decks and hand rails, as well as uninterrupted roofing despite changing directions.’
His first design is set up at the Richards Bay Ski Boat Club and has already drawn interest, not only nationwide, but across the globe.
‘I wish to thank the committee and staff of Richards Bay Ski Boat Club for allowing me to test my proto types and for their interest in the concept,’ said Neveling.
‘I’m currently working on a quotation for an overseas company’s wet mining plant and I introduced the concept at the 7th SA Innovation Summit in Cape Town in September, which drew quite a bit of attention.’
Neveling’s next goal is to develop a replacement bridge resilient enough for heavy vehicles, which can be deployed in disaster stricken areas to replace damaged structures.
‘This could be used as a temporary bridge while existing bridges are being rebuilt, or it can even to be installed as a permanent bridge.
‘Most bridges impaired by floods are repeatedly damaged, so the plan is to develop one that will float on the changing water levels.
‘The idea is not to oppose Mother Nature, but to go with a flow,’ said Neveling with a smile.
