Floating watercraft

Abstract

The invention relates to a floating watercraft (1) which comprises: - two longitudinal floats (2a, 2b), arranged in a catamaran configuration, and designed to provide an upper surface (5a, 5b) for receiving people; - a removable load-bearing structure (9) formed from profiles connecting the two floats (2a, 2b), and defining, with inner faces of the floats (2a, 2b), a tunnel (11) with a height H and a width L, the load-bearing structure (9) comprising at least one platform (12) arranged between the two floats (2a, 2b) and partially delimiting the tunnel (11), the load-bearing structure (9) also defining a zone (13), referred to as a maintenance zone, forming an empty space between the two floats (2a, 2b).

Description

floating vessel FIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of maintenance of floating installations, and in particular floating photovoltaic installations. More specifically, the present invention concerns a floating vessel for the maintenance of installations, advantageously modular and floating. TECHNOLOGICAL BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Document WO 2022 / 242858 describes a floating photovoltaic system, comprising rows of solar panels mounted on modular structures, arranged in parallel series on bodies of water such as reservoirs, lakes or industrial basins.

[0003] For the maintenance and upkeep of these installations, the system incorporates a dedicated floating vessel, designed to allow operators to access the photovoltaic panels by using the access routes located between the rows of panels.

[0004] This floating craft consists of two interconnected flotation elements forming a stable, catamaran-type platform. This design allows the craft to position itself parallel to the rows of panels to carry out cleaning, repair, or replacement of defective panels.

[0005] Despite these initial advantages, this floating craft has several notable drawbacks that limit its efficiency, practicality and ergonomics for users in various working conditions.

[0006] The vessel can only be transported in one piece, which poses logistical challenges, particularly for facilities located in remote or hard-to-reach areas. Furthermore, its size limits its ability to be stored efficiently, especially when the vessel is not in use or outside of operational periods.

[0007] Furthermore, each body of water has specific characteristics, particularly in terms of depth, surface area and bulk, which often requires adjustments to the size or structure of the boat to meet the specific requirements of the site.

[0008] Finally, the vessel described in document WO 2022 / 242858 is not designed for maintenance operations requiring frequent changes of equipment or materials. Storage space on the platform is limited and does not allow for optimal organization of tools and spare parts. Operators may therefore be forced to make repeated trips between the shore and the vessel to retrieve additional equipment, which reduces the productivity of the operations.

[0009] In conclusion, the floating craft described in document WO 2022 / 242858 has significant limitations that reduce its practicality and ergonomics. Its design complicates its transport, storage, and adaptation to site conditions.

[0010] Thus, one aim of the present invention is to propose a floating craft for which the ergonomics are improved compared to the craft known from the prior art.

[0011] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a floating vessel whose transport is simplified compared to the vessel known from the prior art.

[0012] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a floating vessel whose dimensions can be adapted. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The objectives of the present invention are, at least in part, achieved by a floating craft which comprises:

[0014] - two longitudinal floats, arranged in a catamaran configuration, and designed to offer a larger surface area for accommodating people;

[0015] - a removable supporting structure formed of profiles linking the two floats, and defining, with internal faces of the floats, a tunnel of a height H and a width L, the supporting structure includes at least one platform arranged between the two floats and partially delimiting the tunnel, the supporting structure also defines a so-called maintenance zone forming an empty space between the two floats.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the tunnel is configured to allow the movement of the vessel along a row of fixed floating modules, these being positioned in the tunnel during navigation.

[0017] According to one embodiment, each float is formed of elementary modules assembled together according to the direction of elongation of said float.

[0018] According to one embodiment, said vessel includes a winch supported by a profile, referred to as a maintenance profile, of one of at least one platform and arranged to allow the handling of tools and / or loads in the maintenance area.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the winch is in sliding connection with the maintenance profile.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the supporting structure forms guardrails on a perimeter external to the boat; the guardrails comprise external horizontal profiles held to the floats by external vertical profiles.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the load-bearing structure comprises a bar mounted on two adjacent external vertical profiles, referred to respectively as the first external profile and the second external profile, the bar being pivotally mounted by one of its ends to one of the first external profile and the second external profile, and by the other of its ends linked to the other of the first external profile and the second external profile by a locking means, the bar being disposed at an intermediate level between the horizontal profiles and the upper surface, advantageously, the first profile and the second profile are disposed on one end of one of the floats.

[0022] According to one embodiment, at least one platform comprises horizontal profiles, called intermediate horizontal profiles, supported partly by external vertical profiles, and partly by internal vertical profiles, the intermediate horizontal profiles forming a frame, essentially rectangular, on which rests a support panel.

[0023] According to one embodiment, each float has a flat bottom.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the craft includes a mooring system located on a forward part of each float, said mooring system including a metal hook or ring for securing the craft when anchoring, in particular anchoring to a fixed point.

[0025] According to one embodiment, a module located at the ends of each float has a beveled shape, with an angle other than 90° with respect to a superior surface of said floats, so as to improve the hydrodynamics and maneuverability of the boat while reducing water resistance during movement.

[0026] The beveled shape allows for easier docking of the boat on the banks.

[0027] According to one embodiment, said floating vessel includes intermediate elements arranged on the uprights of the tunnel, said intermediate elements being configured to rotate when the floating vessel moves while overlapping a row of floating photovoltaic panels, and when the intermediate elements are in contact with a side of said row of photovoltaic panels.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the intermediate elements include rollers carried by internal vertical profiles called guide profiles, the vessel advantageously comprising at least two guide profiles per float.

[0029] According to one embodiment, said vessel includes at least one guidance initiation structure having a convergent profile allowing engagement of a row of photovoltaic panels in the tunnel, advantageously, the guidance initiation structure is in the form of a triangular prism or semi-cylindrical shape.

[0030] According to one embodiment, additional wheels are mounted on the floats arranged to allow the said vessel to be rolled.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the profiles forming the load-bearing structure are fixed together by reversible fixing means, advantageously the reversible fixing means include screwing means and / or clipping means.

[0032] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the detailed description that follows, with reference to the accompanying figures in which:

[0033] This is a schematic, perspective representation of an example of a vessel according to the present invention;

[0034] This is a schematic representation of one of the floats of the boat; the float is notably represented in perspective;

[0035] Lare represents the boat according to a front view;

[0036] Lare represents the vessel according to another view.

[0037] This is a schematic, perspective representation of the vessel according to another embodiment, comprising a guidance priming structure at each of the forward ends of the vessel, rollers as an intermediate element and an inclined cleaning roller;

[0038] Lare represents an embodiment of the vessel in which two engines are arranged at the rear of said vessel. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0039] The floating vessel is designed to meet the specific installation and maintenance requirements of photovoltaic arrays on bodies of water. An array of photovoltaic panels may include at least two parallel rows of floats supporting the panels. An example of such an array is illustrated in Figure 3A of patent application WO 2022 / 242858. This array comprises two parallel rows of floats supporting the panels. The array is laterally bounded by side walls extending in the direction of the array's elongation.More specifically, a lateral flank can be formed by a section of the floats forming the row of photovoltaic panels and / or by a side of the photovoltaic panel.

[0040] Here, we can see an example of a floating vessel 1 according to the present invention.

[0041] This structure is demountable.

[0042] By "dismountable," we mean a vessel that can be taken apart without breaking the connections that ensure the cohesion of its structure. This term also includes a vessel that can be reassembled, either identically or differently, in order to adjust its dimensions and / or characteristics. It is therefore understood that the vessel has few, if any, welds.

[0043] It is designed to operate effectively in environments such as lakes, reservoirs, or industrial basins, where it offers a stable and versatile platform.

[0044] The vessel's structure rests on two longitudinal floats 2a, 2b in a catamaran configuration, creating a wide and stable base, essential for ensuring the safety and comfort of the technicians during operations. Specifically, each float 2a, 2b extends between a first end 3a, 3b and a second end 4a, 4b.

[0045] Each 2a, 2b float features a flat bottom, a characteristic that increases the boat's stability on the water. The flat bottom allows for even weight distribution, which significantly reduces the risk of capsizing or instability, even when the boat is loaded with solar panels or heavy equipment.

[0046] This type of bottom is designed to offer increased lateral stability, minimizing the effect of currents or slight waves, which is particularly beneficial during operations requiring maximum stability, such as replacing damaged panels.

[0047] The floats can be made of highly corrosion-resistant materials, such as anodized aluminum or fiberglass-reinforced composites. Each float 2a, 2b also includes an upper surface 5a, 5b, opposite the flat bottom, for accommodating people.

[0048] Each float 2a, 2b can be symmetrical and include two bows, specifically two straight bows. This configuration allows for stable navigation in either direction defined by the elongation of the floats.

[0049] Each float 2a, 2b can include a detachable assembly of elementary modules, allowing, as needed, the length of said floats 2a, 2b to be adjusted.

[0050] In particular, each float 2a, 2b may comprise one or more central elementary modules 6, and two end elementary modules 7. In particular, each end elementary module 7 comprises one or the other of the bows.

[0051] The use of bows improves the hydrodynamics and maneuverability of the vessel. By reducing water resistance during movement, each bow allows for smoother gliding across the water's surface, thus reducing the effort required to position the vessel. Furthermore, this design plays a protective role, as it absorbs impacts during maneuvers near fixed structures. By distributing impact forces more evenly, this shape limits the risk of deformation or structural damage in the event of collisions with docks or other floating installations. Bows also contribute to the vessel's stability during maneuvers, allowing for tighter turns, which is particularly advantageous in confined workspaces.

[0052] To ensure secure and easy mooring of the vessel, a mooring system 8a, 8b can be integrated into the front of the floats 2a, 2b. This mooring system may include metal hooks or rings, securely attached to the float structure, allowing the vessel to be held in place during operations. These anchor points can be made of stainless steel or aluminum for optimal resistance to corrosion and tensile forces.

[0053] The hooks, often angled for ease of attachment, allow technicians to quickly secure the vessel to a dock, bollard, or other stable mooring structures, even in strong currents. The mooring rings are also equipped with swivels to allow for some flexibility of movement, which is helpful in preventing cable twisting in the event of slight oscillation of the vessel due to waves. The mooring system ensures the vessel remains precisely positioned during operations, minimizing the risk of accidental movement. It is also designed to allow for rapid detachment should immediate relocation be necessary, which can be crucial in emergency situations or sudden changes in weather conditions.

[0054] The craft 1 also includes a supporting structure 9 that connects the floats. The supporting structure 9 is specifically designed to be fully demountable, thus offering great flexibility in use and transport. It comprises profiles, for example, metallic profiles, generally made of aluminum or stainless steel, which are fastened together by reversible means. These reversible means allow for quick and easy assembly, as well as equally easy disassembly for transport or storage of the craft 1.

[0055] Reversible fastening means may advantageously include screwing means and / or clipping means.

[0056] Depending on the requirements, reinforcement systems can be integrated into the profile joints to ensure increased stability. These reinforcement systems may include brackets and / or struts. These ensure overall rigidity, even when handling heavy or bulky loads, such as photovoltaic panels.

[0057] The supporting structure 9, together with the inner faces 10a and 10b of the floats, defines a tunnel 11 of height H and width L. The tunnel includes two uprights connected by an arch. The height H and / or the width L can be adjusted according to the width and height of the rows of photovoltaic panels. In particular, the dimensions of the tunnel can be adjusted to allow the floating vessel to pass over a row of photovoltaic panels. In this respect, the width L can be between 1 meter and 4 meters, preferably between 2 meters and 3 meters.By "overlapping movement of a row of photovoltaic panels" is meant a movement of the floating vessel in which the floats are arranged on either side of said row, so that the latter is engaged in the tunnel and moves longitudinally inside it as the vessel advances.

[0058] It is understood that the width L is determined by the distance between the two uprights, while the height H is defined by the distance separating the arch from the plane passing through the bottoms of the two floats of the boat.

[0059] The supporting structure 9 includes at least one platform 12 arranged between the two floats 2a, 2b. In particular, and partially delimiting the tunnel 11, the supporting structure also defines a so-called maintenance zone 13 () forming an empty space between the two floats.

[0060] The number of platforms (12) can be adjusted according to needs.

[0061] By "empty space" we mean a space devoid of structures or profiles and allowing an operator to access, for example, panels moving in the tunnel.

[0062] In the example illustrated in the figure, the supporting structure 9 comprises two platforms 12.

[0063] The supporting structure 9 includes guardrails 14 on a perimeter external to the craft 1 to ensure the safety of persons on the upper surface. These guardrails, for example made of aluminum or stainless steel, can be reinforced to withstand potential impacts.

[0064] Specifically, the guardrails 14 comprise external horizontal profiles 15 held to the floats by external vertical profiles 16. In particular, the external vertical profiles 16 may extend perpendicularly to the upper surface 5a, 5b of each of two floats. The external vertical profiles 16 may be attached to the floats by interlocking, by fastening means, via a sliding connection, and locked with a screw. The guardrails 14 may also, in a complementary and / or alternative manner, include chains, for example, connecting external vertical profiles 16.

[0065] The vessel includes intermediate elements configured to limit the effects of contacts and impacts that may occur between the vessel and the row of photovoltaic panels it straddles during its movement. These intermediate elements are also designed to rotate as the vessel moves and when they come into contact with the side of a row of photovoltaic panels, thereby transforming a sliding contact into a rolling contact, which limits the impacts and stresses exerted on the photovoltaic panels.

[0066] It is understood that the intermediate elements are supported by the uprights of the tunnel, and that their axis of rotation has an orientation allowing the intermediate elements to be rotated as soon as the vessel moves in overlap of a row of photovoltaic panels and said elements come into contact with a side of this row.

[0067] The intermediate elements reduce friction when in contact with the sides of the rows of photovoltaic panels and ensure precise lateral guidance of the boat when moving while overlapping a row.

[0068] Their rotation reduces friction, limiting the effort of the engine(s) providing propulsion for the floating vessel.

[0069] The boat advantageously includes at least two intermediate elements on each right foot.

[0070] In one embodiment, each intermediate element may comprise one or more rollers mounted for rotation. These rollers may be supported by some of the internal vertical profiles 20, referred to as guide profiles 20a. There may be at least two of these guide profiles 20a for each upright.

[0071] Thus, according to this embodiment, each guide profile 20a can carry, according to a first variant, a single roller 25, or, according to a second variant, a plurality of rollers, preferably two rollers.

[0072] According to the first variant, each roller 25 can be mounted to rotate around the elongation axis of the guide profile 20a.

[0073] According to the first variant, each roller 25 can be mounted to rotate around an axis offset from the elongation axis of the guide profile 20a that supports it. Specifically, the roller's axis of rotation can be at a non-zero angle to the elongation axis of the guide profile 20a supporting the roller. Advantageously, the angle of the offset axis can be adjusted to adapt the axis of rotation to the arrangement of the row of photovoltaic panels.

[0074] The dimensions of the 25 rolls, in terms of diameter and length, can be adapted to the size of the photovoltaic panels.

[0075] According to a second variant, each guide profile 20a can carry at least two rollers, in particular two rollers. For example, the two rollers can be placed side by side along their direction of elongation and thus share the same axis of rotation. Under these conditions, their axis of rotation can coincide with the direction of elongation of the guide profile 20a that carries them or, alternatively, be offset from said direction of elongation.

[0076] According to this second variant, the two rollers forming an intermediate element can each have a distinct axis of rotation. In this latter aspect, at least one of the two rollers, and for example both rollers forming the intermediate element, have an axis of rotation offset from the guide profile that supports it.

[0077] The dimensions of the 25 rolls, in terms of diameter and length, can be adapted to the size of the photovoltaic panels. More specifically, the two rolls of an intermediate element can each have a different diameter and / or length.

[0078] In a preferred embodiment shown in Figure 1, the rollers 25 are identical (same size and same diameter) and are supported by the guide profiles 20a. This configuration allows the boat to move while touching the sides of the row of photovoltaic panels without risk of damaging them. The rollers reduce the sensitivity of the boat's guidance to discontinuities, irregularities, or dimensional variations in the panel sides, thus ensuring more stable movement. Finally, these rollers facilitate guidance during the boat's navigation.

[0079] The rollers can be made of polymer materials and / or metals such as stainless steel or aluminum. These materials give the rollers good resistance to water, sun exposure, and temperature variations, particularly frost. Preferably, the rollers are made of a water- and UV-resistant material that is also flexible enough not to damage the photovoltaic panels during navigation.

[0080] The height adjustment of said rollers on the guide profiles 20a can be done by any means known to a person skilled in the art such as pin or bolt and nut systems, a notched or rack mechanism, a clamping collar, a slide with locking screw, a key, a ball pin, a cam system or an adjusting screw device.

[0081] The rollers described above can also be arranged on the external vertical profiles 16 to protect the adjacent rows of floating photovoltaic panels during navigation.

[0082] The external horizontal profiles 15 follow the contour of the boat at a distance determined by the external vertical profiles. More specifically, the external horizontal profiles 15 are fixed to the free ends of the external vertical profiles 16.

[0083] By "free end" we mean an end opposite to the end by which the external vertical profile is attached to the float.

[0084] Advantageously, and as illustrated in the figure, the supporting structure 9 can include a bar 17 mounted on either side of an internal vertical profile, called first profile 16a, and an external vertical profile, called second profile 16b, the first and second profiles being arranged at one end of a float.

[0085] It is understood that each float comprises a first and a second profile at their end, and in particular at their front end.

[0086] It is also understood that the front end of the floats is considered to be the front of the floating vessel.

[0087] The bar 17 is pivotally mounted by one of its ends to one of the first profile 16a and the second profile 16b, and by the other of its ends linked to the other of the first profile 16a and the second profile 16b by a locking means, the bar being disposed at an intermediate level between the horizontal external profiles 15 and the upper surface 5a, 5b.

[0088] As an example, the first profile and the second profile are arranged on one end of one of the floats, for example at the first end 3a, 4b of a float.

[0089] It is possible to consider a bar 17 and first profile and second profile for each of the floats.

[0090] A platform 12 according to the present invention may include horizontal profiles, called intermediate horizontal profiles 19, supported partly by external vertical profiles 16, and partly by two internal vertical profiles 20. The intermediate horizontal profiles form in particular a frame, essentially rectangular, on which rests a support panel 21.

[0091] The internal vertical profiles 20 each extend from an internal edge of a float.

[0092] Each platform 12 can serve as a base for spare equipment, tools or photovoltaic panels, providing optimal stability during interventions.

[0093] Either of the platforms 12 can form a walkway allowing users to move from one float to the other. This walkway can also be equipped with ladders, each resting on a float.

[0094] The provision of ladders allows for easy passage of operators / users from one float to another, but also facilitates maintenance operations from either of the platforms equipped with said ladders.

[0095] This last aspect makes assembly and / or maintenance operations easier. Indeed, the passage of an operator / user on a platform allows intervention, for example during a maintenance operation, on the entire surface of panels, for example photovoltaic panels.

[0096] The other platform can be designed to receive / support panels, particularly photovoltaic panels, and be equipped with a system for lifting said panels. More specifically, the lifting system can be designed for handling the panels.

[0097] The lifting system and / or winch facilitates panel positioning. This latter feature meets ergonomic criteria and minimizes handling by operators, thus reducing the risk of musculoskeletal injuries.

[0098] The floating vessel may include a system for cleaning the photovoltaic panels of a row of photovoltaic panels.

[0099] Specifically, the cleaning system for floating photovoltaic panels can be attached to at least one of the platforms. The cleaning system can, in one alternative, be passive and therefore without a motor, pump, or any other system capable of supplying energy. In a second alternative, the cleaning system can be active and therefore equipped with at least one of the following: a motor or a pump.

[0100] Preferably, and depending on the application, the cleaning system may include at least one rotating cleaning roller 26, suitable for removing accumulated dirt from the photovoltaic panels. This at least one cleaning roller 26 may be adjustable; in particular, the cleaning roller 26 may be tiltable to match the tilt angle of the photovoltaic panels. The cleaning system may include a telescopic and / or articulated arm mounted on at least one platform 12 at one end and carrying the cleaning roller 26 at the other end.

[0101] Advantageously, the cleaning system can include an automation module configured to adjust the tilt of the cleaning roller 26 according to the tilt angle of the photovoltaic panels to be cleaned. The automation module can also allow for height adjustment of the cleaning roller.

[0102] Specifically, the automation module can be configured to adjust the height of the cleaning roller to ensure optimal contact between the cleaning roller 26 and the photovoltaic panels during a cleaning phase, while keeping the cleaning roller recessed from the panel surface when no cleaning is required, for example, during maintenance phases without cleaning. In an alternative embodiment, the cleaning roller 26 maintains constant contact with the photovoltaic panels while adapting to their tilt.

[0103] According to another embodiment, the cleaning system may include a liquid projection system and / or an air projection system.

[0104] Liquid projection can be achieved in the form of a laminar jet, or "water knife," which dislodges particles and impurities from the panel surface. Similarly, air projection can be implemented in the form of an "air knife," which effectively dries the surface after cleaning.

[0105] One or both of the platforms can be adapted to accommodate a stretcher. More specifically, the distance between the guardrails, and in particular the vertical profiles, and the intermediate horizontal profiles 19 can be adjusted to allow the passage of a stretcher onto the platform.

[0106] The vessel can therefore be used as an intervention vessel for the evacuation of victims.

[0107] Advantageously, the vessel can be provided with at least one guidance initiation structure 27 allowing its engagement with a row of photovoltaic panels.

[0108] By "engagement," we mean the progressive insertion of a row of photovoltaic panels into the tunnel defined between the two floats of the vessel. This insertion begins with the pre-positioning of the vessel at one end of the row of panels opposite an opening in the tunnel, and then continues with the movement of the vessel towards this end, thus introducing the row of panels into the tunnel.

[0109] At least one guidance priming structure 27 is arranged at the front of the floating craft.

[0110] The "forward section of the floating structure" refers to the end of the structure located towards which it moves when the floats are positioned on either side of a row of photovoltaic panels to guide it into the tunnel. This section includes, in particular, the tunnel entrance area and the forward portions of the floats.

[0111] Preferably, at least one guidance priming structure is fixed to the end of a float, and in particular on the first profile 16a and the second profile 16b.

[0112] Thus, the floating vessel may include, at its bow, two guiding launching structures. It is understood that the floating vessel may also include, at its stern, two further guiding launching structures.

[0113] In one embodiment, the guidance initiator structure can extend along the extension direction of the first and second profiles. The initiator structure is also shaped to give a converging profile, for example funnel-shaped, at the tunnel entrance.

[0114] Thus, the shape of the guiding priming structure can vary and remains at the discretion of the person in the trade.

[0115] Preferably, and without however limiting the invention to these aspects alone, the priming structure of the guidance 27 of the boat can be in the form of a triangular prism or a semi-cylindrical shape allowing the guidance of the boat while preserving the integrity of the photovoltaic panels of the row of photovoltaic panels.

[0116] By "triangular prism shape" we mean a structure whose section along a cutting plane perpendicular to the first and second profiles is triangular in shape.

[0117] By "semi-cylindrical shape" we mean a structure whose section along a cutting plane perpendicular to the first and second profile is a portion of a circle.

[0118] In a preferred embodiment illustrated in the figure, two guidance priming structures are positioned at the front of the floating craft and are of triangular prismatic shape.

[0119] At least one guide initiation structure may comprise a polymer material and / or a metal such as stainless steel or aluminum. These materials are specifically chosen to make the guide initiation structure resistant to water, exposure to sunlight and temperature variations, and particularly to freezing over time.

[0120] At least one guide initiator structure may be height-adjustable so that it can be submerged in water if necessary, as well as positioned to reach the upper part of the first and second profiles. A person skilled in the art will be able to determine how to adjust the height of the guide initiator structure; the means used may include, for example, pin or bolt and nut systems, a ratchet or rack mechanism, a clamp, a slide (for example, with a locking screw), a key, a ball pin, a cam system, or an adjusting screw device.

[0121] To facilitate load handling, a winch 22 is mounted on a maintenance profile, which forms the chassis of one of the platforms 12. Specifically, the maintenance profile is perpendicular to the direction of elongation of the floats. This winch 22 can be mounted with a sliding connection, allowing lateral movement along the maintenance profile, which is essential for adjusting the lifting position as needed. This winch allows technicians to handle large loads, such as photovoltaic panels, without requiring excessive physical effort.

[0122] To allow precise movement along the rows of panels, guide wheels 23 can be fixed horizontally to the inner surfaces of the floats. These guide wheels allow the vessel to be positioned in a straight line alongside the panels, in contact with the floats 2a and 2b, which is essential for precise operations. Furthermore, they minimize the risk of deviation in wind or light currents, thus ensuring optimal alignment with the rows of floating photovoltaic panels.

[0123] Finally, additional wheels (for example, 4 additional wheels per float) can be installed on the floats to allow the boat to be lifted out of the water and moved onto ramps or land surfaces. This feature facilitates the transport and storage of the boat, making logistical operations easier.

[0124] In terms of propulsion, the craft can be equipped with at least one 28-inch motor mounted on one or both of the floats, providing complete autonomy during operation. In a preferred embodiment, at least one motor is installed on each float. This at least one motor is often electric, powered by rechargeable batteries, to minimize the craft's environmental footprint. Electric propulsion, in addition to its low environmental impact, allows for quiet movement, which is particularly advantageous when operating on sensitive sites or in residential areas. The motor system is designed to offer optimal maneuverability, enabling operators to move quickly between different intervention points. In some cases, outboard motors can also be used, providing sufficient power for rapid movement.

[0125] The vessel is designed to meet the demanding requirements of floating photovoltaic installations. Its stable and modular configuration, lifting system, anchor points, durable materials, and beveled module design make it an ideal platform for working on bodies of water. It combines stability, safety, and efficiency to optimize technicians' work and ensure maximum durability, even in challenging conditions. The beveled shape allows for easier docking of the vessel on riverbanks.

[0126] The boat can also be used from the assembly (construction) of the floating solar installation.

[0127] Of course, the invention is not limited to the embodiments described and alternative embodiments can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the claims.

Claims

Floating craft (1) comprising: - two longitudinal floats (2a, 2b), arranged in a catamaran configuration, and designed to offer a top surface (5a, 5b) for accommodating people; - a demountable supporting structure (9) formed of profiles linking the two floats (2a, 2b), and defining, with internal faces of the floats (2a, 2b), a tunnel (11) of a height H and a width L, the supporting structure (9) includes at least one platform (12) arranged between the two floats (2a, 2b) and partially delimiting the tunnel (11), the supporting structure (9) also defines a so-called maintenance zone (13) forming an empty space between the two floats (2a, 2b). Craft (1) according to claim 1, wherein the tunnel (11) is configured to allow the movement of the craft (1) along a row of fixed floating modules, these being positioned in the tunnel (11) during navigation. Boat (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein each float (2a, 2b) is formed of elementary modules assembled together along the direction of elongation of said float (2a, 2b). Boat (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein said boat (1) comprises a winch (22) supported by a profile, referred to as a maintenance profile, of one of at least one platform (12) and arranged to allow the handling of tools and / or loads in the maintenance area (13), advantageously, the winch (22) is in sliding connection with the maintenance profile. Boat (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the supporting structure (9) forms guardrails (14) on a perimeter external to the boat (1), the guardrails (14) comprise external horizontal profiles (15) held to the floats (2a, 2b) by external vertical profiles (16). Boat (1) according to claim 5, in which the supporting structure (9) comprises a bar (17) mounted on two adjacent external vertical profiles (16), referred to respectively as first external profile and second external profile, the bar (17) being pivotally mounted by one of its ends to one of the first external profile and the second external profile, and by the other of its ends linked to the other of the first external profile and the second external profile by a locking means, the bar (17) being disposed at an intermediate level between the horizontal profiles and the upper surface (5a, 5b), advantageously, the first profile and the second profile are disposed on one end of one of the floats (2a, 2b). Boat (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein at least one platform (12) comprises horizontal profiles, referred to as intermediate horizontal profiles (19), supported partly by external vertical profiles (16), and partly by internal vertical profiles (20), the intermediate horizontal profiles (19) forming a frame, essentially rectangular, on which rests a support panel (21). Boat (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, in which each float (2a, 2b) has a flat bottom. Boat (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein said boat (1) comprises a mooring system located on a forward part of each float (2a, 2b), said mooring system comprising a metal hook or ring for securing the boat (1) when anchoring, in particular anchoring to a fixed point. Boat (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein a module located at the ends of each float (2a, 2b) has a beveled shape, with an angle other than 90° with respect to an upper surface (5a, 5b) of said floats (2a, 2b), so as to improve the hydrodynamics and maneuverability of the boat (1) while reducing water resistance during movement. Craft (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein said floating craft comprises intermediate elements arranged on the uprights of the tunnel, said intermediate elements being configured to enter into rotation when the floating craft moves in overlap of a row of floating photovoltaic panels, and when the intermediate elements are in contact with a flank of said row of photovoltaic panels. A boat according to claim 11 and claim 7, wherein the intermediate elements comprise rollers carried by internal vertical profiles called guide profiles, the boat advantageously comprising at least two guide profiles per float. Boat (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, said boat comprises at least one guidance initiation structure (27) having a convergent profile allowing engagement of a row of photovoltaic panels in the tunnel, advantageously, the guidance initiation structure is in the form of a triangular prism or semi-cylindrical shape. Boat (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein additional wheels (24) are mounted on the floats (2a, 2b) arranged to permit the rolling of said boat (1). Boat (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the profiles forming the load-bearing structure (9) are fixed together by reversible fastening means, advantageously the reversible fastening means comprise screwing means and / or clipping means.

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