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Title:
GEOTEXTILE MULTI-TUBE ASSEMBLAGE
Document Type and Number:
WIPO Patent Application WO/2006/028435
Kind Code:
A1
Abstract:
An assemblage of geotextile tubes includes a first axially elongated tube composed of geotextile material and a second axially elongated tube composed of geotextile material. Each of the geotextile tubes has a circular diameter of at least 2.5 meters and an aspect ratio of at least 20. Each of the geotextile tubes is disposed axially alongside the other geotextile tube and can be provided with a water impermeable liner. The first geotextile tube is connected to the second geotextile tube by a plurality of geotextile webs, which may be integrated into the opposed seams of the geotextile tubes.

Inventors:
BRADLEY ANTHONY S (US)
Application Number:
PCT/US2004/025080
Publication Date:
March 16, 2006
Filing Date:
September 03, 2004
Export Citation:
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Assignee:
BRADLEY IND TEXTILES INC (US)
BRADLEY ANTHONY S (US)
International Classes:
E02B7/02; (IPC1-7): E02B7/02
Foreign References:
US6641329B12003-11-04
US5902070A1999-05-11
Attorney, Agent or Firm:
DORITY & MANNING, P.A. (Greenville, South Carolina, US)
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Claims:
WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:
1. An assemblage of geotextile tubes, comprising; a first axially elongated tube composed of geotextile material, said first geotextile tube having a circular diameter of at least two meters and an aspect ratio of at least twenty, said first geotextile tube defining an interior surface facing internally of said first geotextile tube, and said first geotextile tube defining an exterior surface disposed opposite said interior surface and facing externally of said first geotextile tube; a second axially elongated tube composed of geotextile material, said second geotextile tube having a circular diameter of at least two meters and an aspect ratio of at least twenty, said second geotextile tube defining an interior surface facing internally of said second geotextile tube, and said second geotextile tube defining an exterior surface disposed opposite said interior surface and facing externally of said second geotextile tube; said second geotextile tube being disposed axially alongside said first geotextile tube; each of said first and second geotextile tubes defining respectively a first rib and a second rib, each said first rib and said second rib extending axially along the length of each said respective first and second geotextile tubes; and a plurality of webs disposed along the length of each of said first and second geotextile tubes, each said web being formed of geotextile material, each said web having a pair of opposed edges, one of said edges of each said web being connected to said first geotextile tube and the other of said edges of each said web being connected to said second geotextile tube.
2. An apparatus as in claim 1 , wherein said first geotextile tube is connected to said second geotextile tube at each of a plurality of said webs over a vertical height such that when each of said first and second geotextile tubes is filled with incompressible solids and/or liquids, the ratio of the width (W) of the assemblage to the height (H) of the assemblage measures about 1.6 to 1.
3. An apparatus as in claim 1 , wherein said first rib of said first geotextile tube is formed by a first axially extending seam and said axially extending second rib of said second geotextile tube is formed by a second axially extending seam, each said seam defining a finished side at said exterior surface of said respective geotextile tube, each of said seams defining a selvage portion disposed opposite said finished side, said selvage portion of each said first seam facing internally of said first geotextile tube, said selvage portion of said second seam facing internally of said second geotextile tube.
4. An apparatus as in claim 3, wherein said first rib of said first geotextile tube is disposed in opposition to said second rib of said second geotextile tube along at least a portion of the axial lengths of said first and second geotextile tubes.
5. An apparatus as in claim 4, wherein for at least one of said webs, one said edge is integrated into said first seam of said first geotextile tube and the other of said edges of said at least one web is integrated into said opposed second seam of said second geotextile tube.
6. An apparatus as in claim 3, wherein said first seam of said first geotextile tube is a first spiral seam, and said second seam of said second geotextile tube is a second spiral seam.
7. An apparatus as in claim 6, wherein for at least one of said webs, one edge is integrated into said seam of said first geotextile tube and the other of said edges of said at least one web is integrated into said seam of said second geotextile tube.
8. An apparatus as in claim 3, wherein for each said web, one edge is integrated into said seam of said first geotextile tube and the other of said edges of each said web is integrated into said seam of said second geotextile tube.
9. An apparatus as in claim 8, wherein each said seam of said first geotextile tube and said second geotextile tube is a spiral seam. '.
10. An apparatus as in claim 1 , further comprising: a first liner configured and disposed to contact said interior surface of said first geotextile tube, said first liner being water impermeable.
11. An apparatus as in claim 10, further comprising: a second liner configured and disposed to contact said interior surface of said second geotextile tube, said second liner being water impermeable.
12. An assemblage of geotextile tubes, comprising: a first axially elongated tube composed of geotextile material, said first geotextile tube having a circular diameter of at least one meter and an aspect ratio of at least twenty, said first geotextile tube defining an interior surface facing internally of said first geotextile tube, and said first geotextile tube defining an exterior surface disposed opposite said interior surface and facing externally of said first geotextile tube; a second axially elongated tube composed of geotextile material, said second geotextile tube having a circular diameter of at least one meter and an aspect ratio of at least twenty, said second geotextile tube defining an interior surface facing internally of said second geotextile tube, and said second geotextile tube defining an exterior surface disposed opposite said interior surface and facing externally of said second geotextile tube; said second geotextile tube being disposed axially alongside said first geotextile tube; said first geotextile tubes including a first rib extending circumferentially around said first geotextile tube, said second geotextile tubes including a second rib extending circumferentially around said second geotextile tube, said first rib of said first geotextile tube being disposed in opposition to said second rib of said second geotextile tube; and a plurality of webs disposed along the length of each of said first and second geotextile tubes, each web being formed of geotextile material, each said web having a pair of opposed edges, one of said edges of each said web being connected to said first geotextile tube and the other of said edges of each said web being connected to said second geotextile tube.
13. An apparatus as in claim 12, wherein said first geotextile tube is connected to said second geotextile tube at each of a plurality of said webs over a vertical height such that when each of said first and second geotextile tubes is filled with incompressible solids and/or liquids, the ratio of the width (W) of the assemblage to the height (H) of the assemblage measures about 1.618 to 1.
14. An apparatus as in claim 12, wherein said first rib of said first geotextile tube is formed by a first axially extending seam, and said axially extending second rib of said second geotextile tube is formed by a second axially extending seam, each said seam defining a finished side at said exterior surface of said geotextile tube, each of said seams defining a selvage portion disposed opposite said finished side, said selvage portion of one of said seams facing internally of said first geotextile tube, said selvage ■ portion of the other of said seams facing internally of said second geotextile tube. . ;.
15. An apparatus as in claim 14, wherein for at least one of said webs, one edge is integrated into said first seam of said first geotextile tube and the other of said edges of said at least one web is integrated into said second seam of said second geotextile tube.
16. An apparatus as in claim 14, wherein for each of said webs, one edge is integrated into said first seam of said first geotextile tube and the other of said edges of each said web is. integrated into said second seam of said second geotextile tube.
17. An apparatus as in claim 14, wherein each of said first and second geotextile tubes defining an axial seam extending axially along the length of each said first and second geotextile tubes, each said axial seam defining a finished side at said exterior surface of said geotextile tube, each of said axial seams defining a selvage portion disposed opposite said finished side, said selvage portion of one of said axial seams facing internally of said first geotextile tube, said selvage portion of the other of said axial seams facing internally of said second geotextile tube.
18. An apparatus as in claim 17, further comprising: a first liner configured and disposed to contact said interior surface of said first geotextile tube, said first liner being water impermeable.
19. An apparatus as in claim 18, further comprising: a second liner configured and disposed to contact said interior surface of said second geotextile tube, said second liner being water impermeable.
20. An assemblage of geotextile tubes, comprising: a first axially elongated tube composed of geotextile material, said first geotextile tube having a circular diameter of at least one meter and an aspect ratio of at. least twenty, said first geotextile tube defining an interior surface facing internally of said first geotextile tube, and said first geotextile tube defining an exterior surface disposed opposite said interior surface and facing externally of said first geotextile tube; a second axially elongated tube composed of geotextile material, said second geotextile tube having a circular diameter of at least one meter and an aspect ratio of at least twenty, said second geotextile tube defining an interior surface facing internally of said second geotextile tube, and said second geotextile tube defining an exterior surface disposed opposite said interior surface and facing externally of said second geotextile tube; said second geotextile tube being disposed axially alongside said first geotextile tube; said first geotextile tubes including a first rib extending circumferentially around said first geotextile tube, said second geotextile tubes including a second rib extending circumferentially around said second geotextile tube, said first rib of said first geotextile tube being disposed in opposition to said second rib of said second geotextile tube; and wherein a portion of said first rib is overlaid onto a portion of said second rib and said respective overlaid and underlaid portions of said first and second ribs are connected together.
Description:
TITLE OF THE INVENTION GEOTEXTILE MULTI-TUBE ASSEMBLAGE CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS N/A STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT N/A BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Geotextile tubes such as disclosed in commonly owned U.S. Patent No. 5,902,070 are known for controlling beach erosion and lake shore erosion as well as providing artificial jetties to control wave action. When a geotextile tube that is filled with incompressible solids and/or water has stabilized, its cross-sectional shape when viewed in a plane that is normal to the axial length of the geotextile tube, resembles a cone with a relatively narrow apex situated above a wide base. The height of the "coned" tube at its apex is typically equal to the width of the tube when measured at the tube's base divided by 1.618. In other words, the width of the tube measured in this cross-sectional plane at the base of the tube is equal to about 1.618 times the height of the tube measured in this same plane from the tube's base to the tube's apex. The perimeter of this triangular shape is equal to the circumference of the tube. Thus, in theory, one desiring to build a taller geotextile tube that is filled with incompressible solids and/or water needs to increase the width of the tube at the tube's base. In effect, this increase in the height and width of the tube means an expansion of the overall circumference of the tube. However, one desiring to construct a tube with an increased circumference also is constrained by the tensile strength of the materials that compose the tube. Accordingly, one desiring to construct a relatively taller geotextile tube is limited by the tensile strengths of the materials that compose the tube. For it is these materials that will need to contain the incompressible solids and/or water that will fill the tube when the tube is deployed in the desired manner. In assemblages of geotextile tubes that are arranged side-by-side and kept together by a surrounding envelope such as shown in U.S. Patent No. 5,125,767, the tensile strength of the surrounding envelope limits the height that can be attained by the assemblage of tubes in much the same way that the tensile strength of the geotextile material forming the tube limits the height of a single tube. As also shown in U.S. Patent No. 5,125,767, a geotextile structure that is composed of stacking tubes on top of a base formed of tubes kept together by a surrounding envelope also is limited by the tensile strength of the surrounding envelope, which must also bear the added stresses imposed by the weight of the upper tube. In some of the assemblages of geotextile tubes disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 4,889,446, webbing is used to wrap around most of the circumferences of the individual geotextile tubes to connect the geotextile tubes end-to-end or end-to-side. As shown in U.S. Patent No. 4,889,446, in still other end-to-side assemblages, the geotextile tubes are joined at the intersections of the tubes, and side-by-side assemblages are effected by a common underlying sheet of geotextile material extending the entire length of the tubes with a different adjacent section forming a substantia! part of the wall of each tube. OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is a principal object of the present invention to provide a geotextile structure having a height that is larger than could be attained by a single geotextile tube with the same width at its base and composed of geotextile material of comparable tensile strength when each of the geotextile structure and single geotextile tube is filled with incompressible solids and/or liquids. It is another principal object of the present invention to provide a geotextile structure in the form of an assemblage of side-by-side geotextile tubes wherein the assemblage has a height that is larger than could be attained by single geotextile tube with the same width at its base and composed of geotextile material of comparable tensile strength when each of the assemblage and single geotextile tube is filled with incompressible solids and/or liquids. Additional objects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description that follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. The objects and advantages of the invention may be realized and attained by means of the instrumentalities and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. To achieve the objects and in accordance with the purpose of the invention, as embodied and broadly described herein, an assemblage of geotextile tubes is provided. The assemblage includes a first axially elongated tube composed of geotextile material and a second axially elongated tube composed of geotextile material. In one presently preferred embodiment, each of the first and second geotextile tubes desirably has a circular diameter of at least two (2) meters and an aspect ratio of at least 20. However, in another embodiment that presently is preferred for incompressible materials such as water, each of the first and second geotextile tubes desirably has a circular diameter of at least one (1 ) meter and an aspect ratio of at least 20. Each of the geotextile tubes defines an interior surface facing internally of the geotextile tube. Similarly, each of the geotextile tubes defines an exterior surface disposed opposite the interior surface and facing externally of the geotextile tube. Each of the geotextile tubes is disposed axially alongside the other geotextile tube. In a presently preferred embodiment, each of the first and second geotextile tubes defines respectively a first rib and a second rib. Each first rib and said second rib extends axially along the length of each of the respective first and second geotextile tubes. Desirably, each of the first rib and second rib can include a seam of the respective geotextile tube. A presently preferred seam for each of the geotextile tubes is a spiral seam that extends axially along the length of each respective geotextile tube and forms a spiral rib. The assemblage further includes a mechanism for connecting adjacent tubes to one another. One embodiment of this connecting mechanism can include a plurality of webs disposed along the length of each of the first and second geotextile tubes. Each web desirably is formed of geotextile material. However, in an alternative embodiment, some of the webs can be composed of elastic material. Each web has a pair of opposed edges. One of the edges of each web is connected to the first geotextile tube, and the other of the edges of each web is connected to the second geotextile tube. Desirably, for at least one of the webs, one of the edges is integrated into the first seam of the first geotextile tube, and the other of the edges of the at least one web is integrated into the opposed second seam of the second geotextile tube. In a presently preferred embodiment, for each of the webs, orte edge is integrated into the seam of the first geotextile tube, and the other of the edges of each web is integrated into the seam of the second geotextile tube. Moreover, each web can be composed of more than one thickness (or layer) of material. Moreover, the first geotextile tube desirably is connected to the second geotextile tube at each of a plurality of the webs over a vertical height such that when each of the first and second geotextile tubes is filled with incompressible solids and/or liquids, the ratio of the width (W) of the assemblage to the height (H) of the assemblage measures about 1.618 to 1 , This ratio desirably falls within a range of about 1.618 to 1 to about 2.0 to 1. In a presently preferred embodiment, the assemblage can include a first liner that is configured and disposed to contact the interior surface of the first geotextile tube along the entire length of the first geotextile tube and including both ends of the tube. Similarly, a second liner desirably is similarly configured and disposed to contact the interior surface of the second geotextile tube. Desirably, each of the first liner and the second liner is impermeable to the passage of water therethrough. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate at least one presently preferred embodiment of the invention as well as some alternative embodiments. These drawings, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention but by no means are intended to be exhaustive of all of the possible manifestations of the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. 1 represents a perspective view of an assemblage that includes two geotextile tubes deployed in a body of water. Fig. 2 illustrates the side-by-side arrangement of two tubes of an assemblage being assembled so that the opposing sides are in the process of being joined together. Each tube has a spiral rib that is oriented with a pitch that is the reverse of the pitch of the adjacent tube, and the attachment is between the portions of each tube's respective ribs that are parallel on the opposing portions of the exterior surfaces of the respective tubes. Fig. 3 is a schematic of Fig. 2 shown from more of a head-on perspective and focusing on just the opposing sidewalls, which are shown in solid line. The remaining portions of each tube are shown in the chain-dashed line format. Note how the spiral seams are aligned against each other as the opposing sides of each tube are joined together. Fig. 4 shows a cross-sectional view taken in the direction of arrows 4-4 of Fig. 1 and schematically illustrating the joined tubes filled with solid materials and the height to width ratio of about 1 to 1.618. Fig. 5 illustrates from a perspective view a segment of tubes joined as schematically illustrated in Fig. 3 for example. Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken in the direction of arrows 6-6 of Fig. 5. Fig. 7 schematically presents a cross-sectional view similar to Fig. 6 except that the tubes are filled with incompressible solid material. Fig. 7a schematically presents a cross-sectional view taken in the direction of arrows 7A--7A of Fig. 7. Fig. 8A schematically illustrates from a perspective view taken in the direction in which the arrows designated 8-8 point in Fig. 6, a partial view of one manner of connecting the two tubes. Fig. 8B schematically illustrates from a perspective view taken in the direction in which the arrows designated 8-8 point in Fig. 6, a partial view of another manner of connecting the two tubes. Fig. 8C schematically illustrates from a perspective view taken in the direction in which the arrows designated 8-8 point in Fig. 6, a partial view of another manner of connecting the two tubes. Fig. 8D schematically illustrates from a perspective view taken in the direction in which the arrows designated 8-8 point in Fig. 6, a partial view of another manner of connecting the two tubes. Fig. 8E schematically illustrates from a perspective view taken in the direction in which the arrows designated 8-8 point in Fig. 6, a partial view of another manner of connecting the two tubes. Fig. 8F schematically illustrates from a perspective view taken in the direction in which the arrows designated 8-8 point in Fig. 6, a partial view of another manner of connecting the two tubes. Fig. 9 illustrates from a perspective view taken in the direction in which the arrows designated 9-9 point in Fig. 6, a partial view of one way of connecting two adjacent tubes. Fig. 10 illustrates from a perspective view a segment of a pair of tubes joined as schematically illustrated in Fig. 12 for example. Fig. 11 illustrates from a perspective view a segment of another pair of tubes joined as schematically illustrated in Fig. 12 for example. Fig. 12 schematically illustrates a section of the joined tube for purposes of taking the cross-sectional view illustrated by the arrows designated 13-13. Figs. 13A, 13B, 13C and 13D illustrates the views taken along the arrows designated 13-13 in Fig. 12 of a rectangular section (cross-hatched in Fig. 12) of the opposing side walls of the side-by-side geotextile tubes. Fig. 14A schematically illustrates from a perspective view taken in the direction in which the arrows designated 8-8 point in Fig. 6, a partial view of another manner of connecting the two tubes. Fig. 14B schematically illustrates from a perspective view taken in the direction in which the arrows designated 8-8 point in Fig. 6, a partial view of another manner of connecting the two tubes. Fig. 15 schematically shows a cross-sectional view similar to Fig. 4 and illustrating an alternative embodiment with two differently sized joined tubes filled with incompressible solid materials and the height to width ratio of about 1 to 1.618. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Reference now will be made in detail to the presently preferred embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which being illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, which is not restricted to the specifics of the examples. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment, can be used on another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention cover such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents, the same numerals are assigned to the same components throughout the drawings and description. One presently preferred embodiment of the assemblage of geotextile tubes of the present invention is shown in Fig. 1 for purposes of illustration and explanation of various attributes of the invention and is represented generally by the numeral 16. As shown schematically in Fig. 1 for example, an assemblage 16 of geotextile tubes in accordance with the present invention is disposed in an environment where water 17 covers a solid substrate 18 such as soil, sand and the like. Such environments include shorelines of various bodies of water, including rivers, lakes, and oceans, as well as the beds of such bodies of water. Other environments where the present invention can be deployed would be on land such as where the wind causes beach erosion. Though only two geotextile tubes 21 , 22 comprise the assemblage 16 shown in Fig. 1 , the number of geotextile tubes disposed side-by-side can be varied according to the circumstances. However, at least two geotextile tubes 21, 22 are required for the assemblage 16 that constitutes an embodiment of the present invention. When fully deployed and filled as shown in Fig. 1 for example, each of the geotextile tubes 21, 22 in the assemblage 16 contains solids, water, and/or a mixture of solids and water. The solids typically are supplied from the local environment and thus would include soil, sand, gravel and the like that is found in the vicinity of the location where the assemblage 16 is deployed. As shown in Fig. 4, which is a cross-sectional view of just the assemblage taken in Fig. 1, each of the geotextile tubes 21, 22 can be filled with granular solid material 19 such as soil, sand gravel, coral, shells, and other solid debris. A similar view is shown schematically in Fig. 7, which is a view similar to that in Fig. 6, but with the addition of granular solid material 19 filling the interiors of first and second geotextile tubes 21, 22. As shown in Fig. 2 for example, the assemblage 16 includes at least a first axially elongated tube 21 that is composed of geotextile material. Such geotextile materials are well-known, as is evident in U.S. Patent Nos. 4,472,086; 4,610,568; 5,632,571; 5,860,772; and 5,902,070, which are hereby incorporated herein by this reference for all purposes. Geotextiles are commercially available from numerous manufacturers in the United States and are made from a variety of synthetic materials such as nylon, non¬ biodegradable polypropylene, polyester, polyvinyl-chloride, polyethylene or any combination of the foregoing fibers. Geotextiles may be woven using monofilament yarns, continuous yarns or slit film yarns. Geotextiles may be formed from non-woven fabrics that maintain their physical integrity by undergoing any of the conventional methods, including but not limited to, entangling, needling, heat setting, and resin bonding. Geotextile materials are available in various compositions and tensile strengths. They may be woven with high tensile strength in both the machine and cross direction. However, because of the relatively large sizes of the geotextile tubes 21 , 22 that form the assemblages 16 of the present invention, lower strength geotextile materials would not be deemed suitable in most applications. The rupture strength of the geotextile material composing each sheet in the geotextile tube is desirably on the order of 1000 pounds per inch per ASTM 4595 wide width tensile rather than 100 pounds per inch per ASTM 4595 wide width tensile and will be variable depending on the polymer composition of the fabric, the weave, and the denier of the fibers in the fabric. The particular required tensile strength of the "geotextile material will be determined based upon the size of the geotextile tube, and in particular its un-filled circular diameter, as well as the type of fill material that is intended to be used and the environment in which the geotextile tube will be deployed. The circular diameter of the first geotextile tube 21 is the diameter of this tube when in its un-filled state (as schematically shown in Figs. 2 and 3 for example) and arranged so that the transverse cross-section of the tube forms a perfect circle. The circular diameter of each of the geotextile tubes desirably will measure at least about two (2) meters when intended to hold compressible solids and at least about one (1) meter when intended to hold incompressible materials, whether solid or liquid. In each case, the aspect ratio of each of the geotextile tubes will be at least about 20. The aspect ratio of the tube is the ratio of the axial length of the geotextile tube to the circular diameter of the geotextile tube. As shown in Fig. 2 for example, the first geotextile tube 21 defines an interior surface 21 a that faces internally of the first geotextile tube. Similarly, as shown in Fig. 2 for example, the first geotextile tube 21 defines an exterior surface 21b that is disposed opposite the interior surface 21a and that faces externally of the first geotextile tube 21. As shown in Fig. 2 for example, the assemblage 16 also includes at least a second axially elongated tube 22 that is composed of geotextile material. Similarly, the second geotextile tube 22 desirably will measure at least about two (2) meters when intended to hold compressible solids and at least about one (1) meter when intended to hold incompressible materials, whether solid or liquid. In each case, the second geotextile tube 22 also is provided with an aspect ratio of at least about 20. In a manner similar to the first geotextile tube 21 , the second geotextile tube 22 also defines an interior surface 22a that faces internally of the second geotextile tube 22. Likewise, the second geotextile tube 22 defines an exterior surface 22b that is disposed opposite the interior surface 22a and faces externally of the second geotextile tube 22. As shown in Fig. 2 for example, the assemblage 16 can include a first liner 23 that is configured and disposed to contact the interior surface 21a of the first geotextile tube 21. Moreover, this first liner 23 can be configured so that it is composed of material that renders the first liner 23 impermeable to the passage of water through the first liner. Materials suitable for composing the liner 23 include vinyl, polyethylene, polypropylene, high density polyethylene (HDPE)1 and/or other synthetic polymers that are water impermeable. In similar fashion as shown in Fig. 2 for example, the assemblage 16 can include a second liner 24 that is configured and disposed to contact the interior surface 22a of the second geotextile tube 22. This second liner 24 also can be provided in a form that is impermeable to the passage of water through the second liner. Each liner 23, 24 is constructed to form an enclosed bladder that can hold liquid. Though not shown in any other Fig. than Fig. 2, such liners 23, 24 could be provided in any of the illustrated embodiments, but have been omitted from the other Figs, in order to simplify the drawings for the purpose of facilitating illustration of other features of the present invention. The inclusion of water impermeable first and second liners 23, 24 within the first and second geotextile tubes 21, 22, respectively, is presently considered a preferred embodiment of the assemblage 16 of the present invention. However, particular embodiments of the assemblage may not require the presence of liners. Depending on the intended usage of the assemblage 16, one or more tubes of the assemblage can forgo inclusion of a liner. For example, in a situation in which the assemblage is disposed to prevent wind erosion of sand from a beach, the presence of a water impermeable liner would serve no purpose when the geotextile tubes 21, 22 are to be filled with solid material such as sand or filled with concrete, cement or another material that hardens in place. As schematically shown in Fig. 3 for example, the opposed sections of geotextile material composing each of the first and second geotextile tubes 21 , 22 are outlined in solid line, and the remaining sections of each of the first and second geotextile tubes 21 , 22 are outlined in chain-dashed line. Each of the first and second geotextile tubes 21 , 22 can define a rib structure 25 that extends axially along the length of each of the first and second geotextile tubes. This rib structure 25 desirably is composed of material that is relatively stronger than the geotextile material that composes the major portion of each of the first and second elongated tubes 21 , 22 of the assemblage 16. Such a rib 25 desirably can be formed by multiple layers of the very geotextile material that composes the majority of the first and second elongated geotextile tubes 21 , 22. Likewise, the rib structure 25 can be composed of other materials than the multiple thicknesses of the geotextile material. Additionally, a rib 25 can be provided by a strap formed of geotextile material that is stronger, i.e., of higher tensile strength, than the geotextile material that composes the elongated first or second geotextile tubes 21 , 22. Such a strap can be used to form the axially extending rib 25 of each tube 21 and/or 22. In the event that such a strap of material is used as the rib 25, it must be attached to either the interior 21a, 22a or the exterior surface 21b or 22b of each elongated first or second geotextile tube 21 , 22 forming the assemblage 16. Moreover, such straps can be formed of material other than geotextile material. Such materials can include leather or carbon-based composites for example. Because of the relatively large diameters of the geotextile tubes 21 , 22 that form the assemblage 16, smaller sheets of geotextile material can be aggregated by attachment to each other through the formation of seams. In this way it is possible to provide sheets of material that are sized to be able to form the desired sizes of the geotextile tubes 21 , 22 that form the assemblage 16. Insofar as these seams can be formed so as to include multiple thicknesses of the geotextile material, in some embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to configure the position of the seams so that these seams can form the ribs 25 that extend axially along the length of the geotextile tubes 21, 22 that form the assemblage 16 of the present invention. One such example is shown in Figs. 1-3, where there are a pair of geotextile tubes 21, 22 that are formed with rib structures 25 provided by spiral seams. In this embodiment, the rib structures 25 extend continuously along the entire length of the respective first and second geotextile tubes 21, 22. Thus, each of the ribs 25 that extends axially along the length of each of the first and second geotextile tubes 21 , 22 is provided by a continuous spiral seam that also extends circumferentially around the tube. As shown in Figs. 1-3, the rib 25 in first geotextile tube 21 corkscrews in a clockwise direction when moving from the end in the foreground to the end in the background (left to right). Similarly, the rib 25 in second geotextile tube 22 corkscrews in a counter-clockwise direction when moving from the end in the foreground to the end in the background (left to right). An example of a geotextile tube with a spiral seam is disclosed in greater detail in commonly owned U.S. Patent Nos. 5,902,070 and 6,056,438, which are hereby incorporated herein for all purposes. A butterfly seam that 5 includes four thicknesses of geotextile material sewn together is a presently preferred embodiment of the axially extending seam that forms the axially extending rib 25 of each the first and second geotextile tubes 21, 22. As shown in Fig. 3 for example, the axially extending rib 25 of the first geotextile tube 21 is disposed generally in opposition to the axially extending rib 25 of the second o geotextile tube 22. In those embodiments in which the seam of the geotextile tube constitutes an axially extending rib 25, it is desirable for the finished side of the seam to be disposed at the exterior surface of the geotextile tube as shown schematically in Fig. 3. Accordingly, as shown schematically in Fig. 9 for example, it is desirable that the selvage portion 26 of the seam, which is disposed opposite the finished side of the 5 seam, should be disposed facing internally of the geotextile tube. Thus, as schematically shown in Fig. 9, the seam forming the rib 25 can be viewed when the viewer is facing the interior surface 22a of the geotextile tube 22. The assemblage 16 of geotextile tubes further includes a mechanism for connecting adjacent tubes together. This mechanism can include a plurality of webs 30 0 that connect adjacent geotextile tubes 21 , 22 in the assemblage 16. As shown in phantom (dashed line) in Fig. 5 for example, a plurality of webs 30 is disposed along the length of each of the first and second geotextile tubes 21, 22. Moreover, the number of ribs 25 and webs 30 per unit of axial length of the assemblage 16 will depend on the dimensions of the individual geotextile tubes 21 and 22 and the tensile strengths of the materials that compose them. The larger the diameters of the individual geotextile tubes 21 and 22, the more numerous will be the number of ribs 25 and webs 30 per unit of axial length of the assemblage 16. Similarly, the weaker the tensile strengths of the materials that compose the individual geotextile tubes 21 and 22, ribs 25 and webs 30, then the more numerous will be the number of ribs 25 and webs 30 per unit of axial length of the assemblage 16. Desirably, the webs 30 will be disposed along the axial length of the adjacent tubes 21 , 22 at a frequency that is no less than one web per every two meters of axial length of the assemblage 16. Thus, there desirably will be less than two meters between successive webs 30. Presently, a spacing of about 1.5 meters between successive webs connecting adjacent tubes is deemed desirable. Each web 30 extends between and connects the first geotextile tube 21 to the second geotextile tube 22. As shown in Figs. 6, 7 and 8A for example, the distance spanned by each web 30 between the adjacent geotextile tubes 21 , 22 is no more than is needed to ensure that the adjacent tubes, when filled with solids, maintain contact that establishes the desired width to height ratio of about 1.618 to 1 , and desirably in a range of between about 1.618 to one and 2.0 to one. This distance spanned by each web 30 between the adjacent geotextile tubes 21 , 22 is typically on the order of 2 to 6 centimeters and seldom would be more than 15 to 20 centimeters. Thus, the distance spanned by each web 30 is very small in relation to the circular diameter of each geotextile tube 21 , 22. The distance spanned by each web 30 is intended to be small enough so that when the assemblage 16 is filled with the solids, the adjacent tubes 21 , 22 will touch each other along the portions of the tubes that are opposed due to the attachment of the webs 30. As shown in Figs. 8A and 8B for example, each of the webs 30 desirably is formed of geotextile material. Additionally, as shown in Figs. 6 and 7, each web 30 has a pair of opposed edges 30a, 30b. Each web 30 is connected near one of its edges 30a to the first geotextile tube 21 , and each web 30 is connected near one of its edges 30b to the second geotextile tube 22. In the embodiments shown in Figs. 5, 6, 7, 8A, 8B, 8C, 8E and 8F for example, each web 30 is integrated into the axially extending rib 25 of the first geotextile tube 21 and also into the axially extending rib 25 of the second geotextile tube 22. In these embodiments, each rib 25 can be provided by the axially extending seams of the respective geotextile tube 21 and/or 22. Accordingly, a portion near one edge 30a or 30b of each web 30 can be integrated into the seam of the first geotextile tube 21 , and a portion near the other edge 30b or 30a of the web 30 can be integrated into the seam of the second geotextile tube 22. As shown in Figs. 8A, 8B, 8C, 8E and 8F, integration of the web 30 into each rib 25 can involve sewing the web 30 into the seam that forms each opposing rib 25 of each adjacent geotextile tube. However, other forms of integration such as using adhesives and mechanical means such as stapling or mechanical fasteners can be used. Such integration of the webs 30 into the seams of the geotextile tubes 21 , 22 is particularly advantageous as this integrated construction serves to provide additional strength to the ribs 25 that are formed by the seams. As shown schematically in Figs. 8E and 8F, a second web 31 can be disposed against the first web 30 and thereby double the strength of the mechanism that connects the adjacent geotextile tubes in the assemblage. As with the first web 30, a portion near one edge 31a or 31b of each second web 31 can be integrated into the seam of the first geotextile tube 21 , and a portion near the other edge 31b or 31a of the second web 31 can be integrated into the seam of the second geotextile tube 22. In 5 some cases it may be desirable to use more than a double web construction by adding additional web layers beyond two that are shown schematically in Figs. 8E and 8F. Moreover, admittedly, a more efficient use of the amount of material in each web 30 or 31 would dictate that the portions nearest the edges 3Oa1 30b or 31a, 31b of the respective webs 30, 31 would be integrated into the seams forming the ribs 25 of the o respective geotextile tubes 21 , 22. However, as a practical matter, the actual connection of the web 30, 31 to the seam of the geotextile tube 21 or 22 occurs along a portion of that web 30, 31 that is more intermediate the edge 30a or 30b or 31a, 31b and the midpoint of the respective web 30, 31 such that the selvage 26 of the seam includes about 5 to 10 centimeters of the edge 30a or 30b or 31a, 31b of the respective 5 web 30, 31. Referring to Fig. 4, which is a cross-sectional view taken perpendicular to the axial direction of the first and second geotextile tubes, 21, 22, respectively, the height of the assemblage 16 is schematically represented by the vertical distance measured between the apex and the base of the assemblage and is designated by the letter "H". 0 The width of the assemblage 16 is schematically represented by the distance of the maximum horizontal spread near the base of the assemblage 16 and is designated schematically in Fig. 4 by the letter "W". As schematically shown in Figs. 4 and 7a for . example, the vertical height of the connected portion of the web that is disposed between the first geotextile tube 21 and the second geotextile tube 22 is schematically indicated by the letter V1 for it is over this vertical height that the two geotextile tubes 21 , 22 are connected by an individual web. This attachment height V is determined so that when the first and second geotextile tubes, 21 , 22, respectively, are filled with 5 incompressible solids and/or liquids, the ratio of the width (W) to the height (H) of the assemblage 16 when viewed in a cross section that is transverse to the axial direction of the assemblage is found desirably to be about 1.618 to 1. In other words, when the filled assemblage "cones," the width (W) of the base of the conical shape is about 1.618 times the height (H) of the conically-shaped transverse cross section schematically 10 shown in Fig. 7 for example. The desirable range for the so-called "coning" ratio is from about 1.618 to one to 2.0 to one. This same aspect of the vertical extent of the connection mechanism is also illustrated schematically in Fig. 9 by the letter Y from a view taken facing the interior surface 22a of one of the geotextile tubes 22. In the view shown in Fig. 9 for example, which is taken along the arrows designated 9, 9 in Fig. 6, 15 the web 30 is integrated into an axially elongated rib 25 that is formed as a spiral seam. The linear extent or length of the connection mechanism is also illustrated schematically in Fig. 7a by the letter T from a view taken in Fig. 7 facing the interior surface 22a of one of the geotextile tubes 22 and indicated schematically by the arrows designated 7a- -7a in Fig. 7. 0 In an alternative embodiment schematically shown in Fig. 8C for example, the rib structure 25 formed from the seam of each of the individual geotextile tubes 21 , 22 is '"" everted from what is shown in Figs. 8A and 8B. Fig. 8C illustrates from a perspective view similar to that shown in Fig. 8A, a partial view of this alternative manner of connecting the two tubes 21, 22 forming an assemblage. Accordingly, the selvage portion 26 of the seam is disposed facing externally of each geotextile tube 21 , 22. Extending between and connecting opposed portions of the ribs 25 is a web 30 having one of its opposite edges 30a anchored in one of the portions of the rib 25 of one tube 21 and the opposite edge 30b of the web 30 anchored in the opposed portion of the rib 25 of second geotextile tube 22. When the mechanism for connecting the adjacent tubes together includes a web 30, it is possible to form this web 30 out of an elastomeric material so that the web 30 will stretch and elongate under pressure and resiliently recover the original length of the web when the pressure is relieved on the opposite ends of the elastic web 30. Suitable elastomeric materials for the elastic webs 30 and/or 31 would include the same as those used to make bungee cords for example. Such materials can be obtained from Superior Bungee Corp. of Scottsboro, Alabama and Sea Ties, Inc. of Baton Rouge, Louisiana and might include polypropylene, polyester, rubber, both natural and synthetic, and the like. The elastic web 30 is particularly desirable where it is anticipated that there will be variable forces applied to the tubes 21 , 22. This would be the case where the tubes are intended to absorb the energy caused by waves or an unusual transitory phenomenon such as a hurricane. In each of these instances the material constituting the web is subject to fatigue. Such fatigue could be reduced by virtue of the absorption of some of the energy needed to elongate the web when the opposite edges of the web are pulled in opposite directions by some of the anticipated transitory forces being applied to the adjacent tubes 21, 22. A typical example would be where the adjacent geotextile tubes 21 , 22 would be provided' with water impermeable liners and filled with water for example. In an alternative embodiment schematically shown in Fig. 14A for example, the rib structure 25 formed from the seam of a first individual geotextiie tube 21 is disposed to present the finished seam side from the exterior surface 21 b of the tube toward the exterior surface of the opposed second geotextile tube 22. The rib structure 25 of the second geotextile tube 22 is disposed with the selvage portion 26 externally of the second tube 22 and facing the exterior surface 21b of the first tube 21. Extending between and connecting opposed portions of the ribs 25 is a web 30 having one of its opposite edges 30a anchored in one of the portions of the rib 25 of one tube 21 and the opposite edge 30b of the web 30 anchored in the opposed portion of the rib 25 of second geotextile tube 22. Fig. 14B illustrates from a perspective view similar to that shown in Fig. 14A, a partial view of yet another alternative manner of connecting two tubes 21 , 22 forming an assemblage in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The selvage portion 26 of a seam forming a rib 25 of a first geotextile tube 21 is disposed to face internally of the first geotextile tube 21. A first end 30a of a web 30 is also disposed internally of the first geotextile tube 21 , and a portion of the web 30 is integrated into the rib 25 that faces internally of the first geotextile tube 21. The selvage portion 26 of the seam forming the rib 25 of the second geotextile tube 22 similarly faces internally of the second geotextile tube 22. However, the second edge 30b of the web 30 is attached to the exterior surface of the second geotextile tube 22 near the finished portion of the seam that forms the rib 25. As shown in Fig. 14B, the manner of attachment of the second edge 30b of the web 30 can be by means of sewing. However, as noted above, other mechanisms for attachments such as mechanical fasteners or chemical adhesives can be used to effect a permanent attachment of the second end 30b of the web to the exterior surface of the second geotextile tube 22. In yet another alternative embodiment schematically illustrated in Fig. 8D for example, the mechanism for connecting adjacent tubes together can include connecting portions of the adjacent and externally projecting ribs 25 of each respective tube 21 , 22. In this embodiment, there is no need for a separate web 30. The selvage portions 26 of the seams forming the ribs 25 of the adjacent tubes 21 , 22 are facing externally of the tubes. A portion of the rib 25 of one tube 22 can be overlaid on a portion of an opposing rib 25 of the other tube 21. The overlaid ribs 25 can then be sewn together or otherwise connected together to form the mechanism for connecting the adjacent tubes 21 , 22 together. As shown schematically in each of Figs. 10 and 11 for example, a plurality of webs 30 can be integrated into the opposed circular circumferential seams forming transverse ribs 27 of first and second geotextile tubes, 21 , 22. Each of the adjacently disposed geotextile tubes 21 , 22 shown schematically in Figs. 10 and 11 is formed by end-to-end joining of cylindrically shaped geotextile sections 28. The circumferential seams that connect the cylindrical sections 28 end-to end can be formed for example in the same manner and configuration as any of those shown in Figs. 8A1 8B, 8C, 8E, 8F, and 14A with the integrated web 30 or Fig. 14B with the partially integrated web 30 or Fig. 8D with the joined overlapping ribs 25. As shown schematically in Fig. 11 for example, each of the first and second geotextile tubes 21 , 22 of the assemblage 16 can include at least a first axial seam 41 extending axially along the length of each of the first and second geotextile tubes. The first axial seam 41 defines a finished side 41b at the exterior surface 21b, 22b of the respective geotextile tube 21, 22. The first axial seam 41 defines a selvage portion 41a disposed opposite the finished side 41 b. The selvage portion 41a of one of the first axial seams 41 faces internally of the first geotextile tube 21. The selvage portion of the other of the first axial seams 41 faces internally of the second geotextile tube 22. Similarly, as shown schematically in Fig. 11 for example, each of the first and second geotextile tubes 21 , 22 of the assemblage 16 can include at least a second axial seam 42 extending axially along the length of each of the first and second geotextile tubes 21, 22. The second axial seam 42 is desirably constructed like the first axial seam 41 with finished side 42b and selvage portion 42a. Moreover, it is not necessary for the first axial seam 41 of each cylindrical section 28 to be aligned with either the first axial seam 41 or the second axial seam 42 of any other cylindrical section 28 in the geotextile tube 21 or 22. Figs. 12 and 13A, 13B, 13C and 13D schematically illustrate different arrangements between adjacent geotextile tubes 21, 22 forming an assemblage 16. Each of Figs. 13A, 13B, 13C and 13D is intended to schematically represent the view of the cross-hatched rectangular area taken along the lines 13-13 in Fig. 12. In each of Figs. 13A, 13B and 13C, each of the dashed lines schematically represents the location of a line of attachment of a web 30 to the first geotextile tube 21 whether that attachment be effected in any of the ways depicted in Figs. 8A, 8B, 8C, 14A or 14B. Similarly, each of the solid lines in Figs. 13A, 13B and 13C schematically represents the location of a line of attachment of a different web 30 to the second geotextile tube 22. Again, the manner of attachment can be chosen from any of the methods described above. Thus, Fig. 13B can be viewed to represent schematically the configuration that is shown in Figs. 2 and 3 for example, wherein the webs 30 are attached to each of the first and second geotextile tubes 21 , 22 and are integrated with the ribs 25, which are disposed alongside one another and opposed to one another. In the embodiment schematically illustrated in Fig. 13C for example, each of the webs has a centrally disposed slit that receives a portion of the opposed web. Thus, one of edges 30a or 30b of each of the webs 30 is attached to and integrated with the rib 25 of the first geotextile tube 21. Similarly, one of edges 30a or 30b of the crossing web is integrated into the rib 25 of the second geotextile tube 22. In each case the opposite edges 30b or 30a of each of the webs 30 are attached to the exterior surfaces 21b, 22b of the opposed geotextile tube 21 , 22, respectively. In Fig. 13A, each dashed line can be viewed to represent the line of attachment near one edge 30a of a web 30 that is integrated into the rib 25 of the first geotextile tube 21 while the opposite edge 30b of that web is attached to the exterior surface 22b of the second geotextile tube 22. An example of the latter method of attachment is shown schematically in Fig. 14B for example. Each solid line can be viewed to schematically represent the line of attachment near one edge 30a of a web 30 integrated into the rib 25 of the second geotextile tube 22 while the opposite edge 30b of that web is attached to the exterior surface 21 b of the first geotextile tube 21. In the embodiment schematically shown in Fig. 13D for example, the dashed lines interrupting the solid line represents an externally projecting rib 25 that is overlaid onto one side of the externally projecting rib 25 of the first geotextile tube 21 as shown schematically in Fig. 8D. Similarly, each solid line interrupting the dashed line schematically represents an externally projecting rib 25 that is overlaid onto the externally projecting rib 25 of the second geotextile tube 22 that is the reverse overlay of what is schematically shown in Fig. 8D. The circular diameter of each tube in the assemblage can differ in some embodiments. In an alternative embodiment of an assemblage 116 shown schematically in Fig. 15 for example, the second geotextile tube 122 can have a different circular diameter than the first geotextile tube 121. In such an embodiment, the tube 121 with the larger diameter would be deployed facing the direction from which the force (such as wave action) is expected to originate, and the smaller diameter tube 122 would be disposed facing away from the direction from which the force is expected to originate. The height of such an assemblage 116 is provided by the larger diameter tube when the transverse cross sectional shape of the assemblage filled with incompressible solids takes on the conical configuration. The following hypothetical example serves to illustrate an embodiment of the present invention. Each of a pair of geotextile tubes is provided with a circumference of about twenty feet, a circular diameter of about 20/π feet, and an aspect ratio of 20. Each geotextile tube is composed of continuous filament yarns that are formed of polyester fiber. The tensile strength of this geotextile material is about 1 ,000 pounds per inch per ASTM 4595 wide width tensile. Each geotextile tube is constructed using a spiral seam that forms a continuous rib down the axial length of the entire tube. The spiral seam is a four-ply butterfly seam that has its selvage portion disposed towards the interior of the tube. In aligning the two tubes adjacent to one another, one of the tubes has the pitch of its spiral seam oriented in the reverse clockwise direction to the pitch of the spiral seam of the adjacent tube. In this way, the seams can be aligned side-by-side in a parallel fashion as both seams extend along the axial length of each tube. The mechanism that connects the adjacent tubes includes a plurality of webs as depicted schematically in Fig. 8A for example. Thus, where the spiral seam of each adjacent tube opposes the spiral seam of the other adjacent tube, one end of a web is integrated into that seam while the opposite end of the web is integrated into the opposing seam; The length of each web is the distance measured transversely to the width of the web that extends between the two tubes and is indicated in Fig. 7a by the letter T. The length of each web therefore depends on the design height of the assemblage and in this case on how tight the spiral seam is configured. The length T of each web is about 6.49 feet, while the portion of each web that extends between the two tubes measures one or two centimeters and configured as in Fig. 8C for example. The axial separation between the webs is about five feet. Each web is composed of the elastic material such as used in tie-down cords or bungee cords or rubber absorbing mooring lines. Each of the geotextile tubes of the assemblage is provided with a liner that is impermeable to the passage of liquid and is composed of high density polyethylene (HDPE) so as to form essentially a self-contained bladder within each tube. When both tubes are filled with incompressible solids and/or liquids, the assemblage can be filled to a height (H) of about six feet as shown in Fig. 4 for example and as is indicated in Fig. 7a by the letter V. The assemblage will "cone" and form a

base that measures about 9.708 feet (6 x 1.618) as is indicated in Fig. 4 by the letter "W," and the transverse cross-sectional circumference (Figs. 4 and 7 for example) of the assemblage as a whole is about 28 feet. One advantage gained by the assemblage of the present invention derives from the ability to increase the height of the assemblage over the height of two geotextile tubes disposed side-by-side but without being connected by webs 30, such as shown in Fig. 18 of U.S. Patent No. 4,889,446. When the first and second geotextile tubes, 21, 22, respectively, are filled with incompressible solids and/or liquids, the ratio of the width (W) to the height (H) of the assemblage 16 is found to be about 1.618 to 1 or in a range of about 1.618 to 1 to about 2.0 to 1 , depending on how close to incompressible is the fill material and other factors such as the environment of the assemblage, and the extent to which the tubes in the assemblage are filled. This ratio of the width (W) to the height (H) of the assemblage 16 is about the same as it would be for a single elongated geotextile tube filled with incompressible solids and/or liquids. However, in a single geotextile tube of comparable size, the tensile forces that the seams forming the ribs 25 would be required to withstand when filled with incompressible solids and/or liquids are significantly greater than the forces that each of the two first and second geotextile tubes, 21, 22, respectively, in the assemblage 16 is required to withstand in order to maintain the physical integrity of each of the individual tubes, 21 , 22 that together are joined to form the assemblage 16. This fact secures a number of advantages for the assemblage 16 over a single geotextile tube of comparable height and width dimensions. The tensile strength of the materials does not need to be as great for each of the first and second geotextile tubes, 21, 22, respectively. Thus, even though more square yardage is required to construct the two smaller first and second geotextile tubes, 21 , 22, respectively, the cost of these lower tensile strength geotextile materials is less than would be the case for a single geotextile tube of comparable dimensions using the required higher tensile strength geotextile materials. Moreover, at some sizes and environments (typically above ground), the available geotextile materials are incapable of withstanding the tensile forces that would be involved in a single geotextile tube having height and width dimensions comparable to the assemblage 16. Thus, the assemblage 16 can achieve greater height dimensions at lower cost than would be possible with a single geotextile tube. While at least one presently preferred embodiment of the invention has been described using specific terms, such description is for illustrative purposes only, and it is to be understood that changes and variations may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the following claims.