TEAM TUBEBARRIER
Robert Alt, Sukhjnder Singh & Marco NobelTeam Tubebarrier is part of RASS International BV, a company based in Gouda, the Netherlands, and established in 2014. The company focuses on tackling the growing challenge of protecting the Netherlands against flooding. With its patented Tubebarrier, RASS International offers an innovative and flexible flood barrier system that serves as a practical alternative to traditional sandbags. The Tubebarrier can be deployed quickly, is user-friendly, requires minimal maintenance, and seamlessly integrates into its surroundings.
Innovation and Development
The Idea Behind Tubebarrier
The concept for the Tubebarrier was born out of necessity. During severe flooding in Germany, our team observed the use of traditional sandbags by both the Dutch and German armies to combat rising waters. It was a slow and labor-intensive process that sparked a question: Is there a faster, more efficient way to handle flood defense?
After witnessing these scenes, we felt compelled to find a better solution. We envisioned a system that would not only eliminate the need for sandbags but also avoid reliance on pumps or electricity. The idea of a flexible, lightweight flood barrier began to take shape. It had to be quick to deploy, easy to use, and effective in a wide range of flooding scenarios.
Brainstorming and Conceptualization
With this vision in mind, we, Team Tubebarrier, immersed ourselves in intensive brainstorming sessions. Locking ourselves away for days, we explored countless possibilities and engineering challenges. Gradually, the concept of a self-sustaining dam emerged—a barrier that could be deployed without complex equipment or excessive manpower. Although the idea was met with skepticism by some, we were determined to prove it could work.
The initial concept revolved around creating a barrier that would rely on the natural force of water to stabilize itself, rather than depending on external power sources. This unique approach marked the beginning of our journey to revolutionize flood protection.
Turning the Idea Into Reality
The transition from an idea on paper to a working prototype was not an easy process. Developing a reliable flood defense system required overcoming significant technical and logistical challenges. However, Team Tubebarrier remained steadfast in our belief that this solution could make a real difference.
A breakthrough came when we discovered a testing facility for temporary flood defenses at Delft University of Technology (TU Delft). A simple internet post about the new test site led to a meeting with the coordinator, Marjan Kreijns, who immediately recognized the potential of our idea. Her enthusiasm and support opened doors for us to test our first prototype (V1) under real-world conditions.
Testing and Refinement
The initial tests at the Delft site were a pivotal moment for Tubebarrier. The results were overwhelmingly positive, validating our design and encouraging us to move forward. Over the next two years, we conducted hundreds of additional tests and demonstrations to refine the product. Each iteration brought us closer to creating a reliable, adaptable, and efficient flood defense system.
Through rigorous testing, we ensured that the Tubebarrier could withstand diverse environmental conditions while maintaining ease of use. The final product, standing 70 cm tall, is capable of handling up to 50 cm of water overflow—sufficient to address 80-90% of flooding scenarios in the Netherlands.
Product Features
The Tubebarrier stands 70 cm tall and can contain up to 50 cm of water overflow, effectively addressing 80-90% of typical flooding scenarios in the Netherlands. The system is highly adaptable and can be tailored to meet the unique needs of specific locations. Our team offers site inspections and customized solutions to ensure the best fit for every situation.
Mission and Core Values Team Tubebarrier
At RASS International, our mission is to revolutionize flood protection with innovative technology. The Tubebarrier reflects our commitment to sustainability, practicality, and efficiency. Our journey from concept to reality was far from easy, but perseverance and a strong professional network were the keys to our success. What began as a simple idea has become a game-changing solution that can make a real difference in safeguarding communities from the devastating impacts of flooding.
We are proud of what we have achieved and remain dedicated to improving flood defense systems worldwide. Every location is different, and we understand that flexibility is crucial. Our goal is to provide tailored solutions that fit seamlessly into the environment while offering reliable protection.
Get in Touch
If you are interested in learning more about the Tubebarrier or want to explore solutions for your flood protection needs, we are here to help. Contact us HERE for more information or to schedule an inspection.
