Floating modular assembly with improved coupling system

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a modular floating assembly (1) comprising at least two floating devices (D1, D2, D3) and a coupling system; and a coupling system configured to mechanically connect said at least two floating devices, said coupling system comprising:-a first coupling element (E1) formed integrally with the first floating device (D1) and projecting laterally from the first floating device (D1),-a second coupling element (E2) formed integrally with the second floating device (D2) and projecting laterally from the second floating device (D2), -a detachable locking system configured to connect the first coupling element and the second coupling element.

Description

[0001] The present application relates to a modular floating assembly comprising at least two floating devices and a generally rapid coupling system configured to mechanically connect the at least two floating devices.

[0002] The coupling system includes a first coupling element integral with the first floating device and protruding laterally from the first floating device, a second coupling element integral with the second floating device and protruding laterally from the second floating device, and a detachable locking system configured to connect the first coupling element and the second coupling element.

[0003] Such coupling systems are often used to facilitate the assembly of floating devices. Technical Field

[0004] The present disclosure relates to the field of floating modular assemblies and, more particularly, to the design of floating solar installations configured to support photovoltaic panels, typically in several parallel rows. Background Art

[0005] For example, it is known from documents WO2021219948 or WO2012139998 that various floating devices of solar energy devices, especially supports of photovoltaic panels, are assembled using lugs protruding laterally from the floating devices, and the lugs facing each other are passed through locking members (usually bolts).

[0006] Figure 1 Taken from document WO2021219948, it shows a floating solar device marked 1 assembled from floating devices having a triangular structure. Each triangular structure generally includes extruded plastic tubes extending along the three sides of the triangle, and connectors connecting the ends of the tubes in pairs at the vertices of the triangle.

[0007] The floating devices are respectively configured to support photovoltaic panels PV, preferably in the form of a plurality of parallel rows R1 , R2 , R2 , and form water channels Vn between the rows of photovoltaic panels.

[0008] The connector also includes protruding lugs, referenced 50, at the apex of the triangular structure, which allow rapid assembly of triangular devices from a library by aligning the lugs and then inserting a locking member 51 (such as a bolt) through each superimposed lug and through a hole aligned with each lug.

[0009] Document WO2012139998 of the present applicant discloses another typical design of a blow extrusion module, with a similar coupling system comprising superimposed lugs of each module, traversed by a locking member.

[0010] In both embodiments of documents WO2012139998 or WO2021219948, the lugs between the floats to be connected are deliberately offset in height so as to superimpose one another and therefore extend in different planes parallel to the source of the water body in the rest position of the modular device.

[0011] It is also known to allow the various modular flotation devices to move relative to each other in rough sea conditions by giving flexibility to the lugs, which are usually plastic, by bending them, ie the modular flotation devices of the assembly form a flexible sheet which deforms with the movement of the waves.

[0012] According to the inventors' findings, such quick coupling systems are not ideal in terms of transmitting forces between the floating devices of the assembly and can be improved in terms of mechanical strength.

[0013] In particular, the inventors have noticed that the height offset of the lugs generates stresses when pulled between two floating devices, which stresses cause the lugs to bend, such as Figure 2 As a result, under the influence of wind, even when the water is relatively calm, the pulling forces between the floats can create additional bending stresses that reduce the strength of the connection. Summary of the invention

[0014] The present disclosure will improve this situation.

[0015] A modular floating assembly is proposed, comprising at least two floating devices and a coupling system configured to mechanically connect the at least two floating devices.

[0016] The coupling system comprises:

[0017] a first coupling element which is integral with the first floating device and projects laterally from the first floating device,

[0018] a second coupling element which is integral with the second floating device and projects laterally from the second floating device,

[0019] - a detachable locking system configured to connect the first coupling element and the second coupling element.

[0020] According to the invention, in a rest position of the assembly, wherein the modular floating assembly floats on a calm body of water, the first coupling element and the second coupling element are substantially aligned in an imaginary plane parallel to the surface of the body of water,

[0021] and wherein the first coupling element comprises an upwardly protruding first upper stopper and a downwardly protruding first lower stopper distributed on either side of the first coupling element,

[0022] and wherein the second coupling element comprises an upwardly protruding second upper stopper and a downwardly protruding second lower stopper distributed on either side of the second coupling element,

[0023] And wherein the detachable locking system comprises:

[0024] an upper portion configured to cover the first coupling element and the second coupling element, comprising a first upper counter-stop configured to contact the first upper stop and a second upper counter-stop configured to contact the second upper stop,

[0025] a lower portion configured to cover the first coupling element and the second coupling element, comprising a first lower counter-stop configured to contact the first lower stop and a second lower counter-stop configured to contact the second lower stop,

[0026] and wherein a tensile stress tending to move the first coupling element and the second coupling element apart is applied between the two floating devices, the coupling system being configured such that the first upper stop and the first lower stop engage with the first upper counter-stop and the first lower counter-stop, and the second upper stop and the second lower stop engage with the second upper counter-stop and the second lower counter-stop, so as to resist and limit the spacing between the first coupling element and the second coupling element.

[0027] The features listed in the following paragraphs can be optionally implemented independently of each other or in combination with each other. According to one embodiment, a first coupling element protruding laterally from the first floating device includes at least one flexible length portion, and a second coupling element protruding laterally from the second floating device includes at least one flexible length portion, the first flexible coupling element and the second flexible coupling element are configured to enable relative displacement of the first device and the floating device in rough sea conditions by deforming the flexible length portions when locked to each other by a locking system, the first coupling element and the second coupling element deforming outside the virtual plane.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the coupling system is configured to apply, in the rest position of the floating assembly, a tensile stress between the two floating devices tending to move the first coupling element and the second coupling element apart, so as to:

[0029] - balancing the upper force of the first upper counter-stop on the first upper stop on the one hand and the lower force of the first lower counter-stop on the first lower stop on the other hand, so as to apply a tensile stress to the first coupling element in the virtual plane, and

[0030] - Balancing the upper force of the second upper counter-stop on the second upper stop on the one hand and the force of the second lower counter-stop on the second lower stop on the other hand, so as to apply a tensile stress to the second coupling element in the virtual plane.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the upper and lower parts of the locking system are two detachable parts, which are configured to be fixed to each other so as to grasp the first coupling element and the second coupling element. The two detachable upper and lower parts respectively include a coupling member and a complementary coupling member that engages with each other, and the coupling member and the complementary coupling member are configured to be assembled with each other by a threaded connection or by a flexible interlocking.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the coupling member and the complementary coupling member extend axially along a mounting axis perpendicular to the virtual plane. Specifically, the coupling member and the complementary coupling member include external threads and internal threads that engage with each other, and extend axially along a threaded connection axis that coincides with the mounting axis in a stationary position of the floating assembly.

[0033] According to one embodiment:

[0034] - the upper part of the locking system comprises an upper circular shoulder, preferably coaxial with said mounting axis, on which a first upper counter-stop and a second upper counter-stop are formed on two different angular sections of said upper circular shoulder, the first and second upper stops extending along parts of a circular arc;

[0035] - the lower part of the locking system comprises a lower circular shoulder, preferably coaxial with said mounting axis, on which are formed a first lower counter-stop and a second lower counter-stop in two different angular sections, the first and second lower stops extending along parts of a circular arc.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the first coupling element and the second coupling element are adjustable relative to each other about a mounting axis, thereby allowing:

[0037] - various angular positions of the first and second upper stops on said upper circular shoulder,

[0038] - Various angular positions of the first and second lower stops on said lower circular shoulder.

[0039] According to one embodiment, the component includes a third floating device, the coupling system includes a third coupling element that protrudes laterally and extends in a virtual plane and is integral with the floating device, and a third upper stop and a third lower stop, which are respectively configured to be supported on the upper circular shoulder and the lower circular shoulder and supported on a third upper counter-stop and a third lower counter-stop.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the first upper stopper and the first upper counter-stopper have mutually engaging contact surfaces inclined at an upper angle relative to a direction perpendicular to the virtual plane, and the first lower stopper and the first lower counter-stopper have mutually engaging contact surfaces inclined at a lower angle relative to a direction perpendicular to the virtual plane,

[0041] The upper angle and the lower angle are opposite and are configured to generate a resultant force between the floating device from the contact surfaces between the first upper stop and the first lower stop and the first upper counter-stop and the first lower counter-stop in the event of traction, the resultant force tending to move the upper and lower parts of the locking system closer together,

[0042] and / or wherein the second upper stopper and the first upper counter-stopper have contact surfaces inclined at an upper angle relative to a direction perpendicular to the virtual plane, and the first lower stopper and the first lower counter-stopper have contact surfaces inclined at a lower angle relative to a direction perpendicular to the virtual plane,

[0043] The upper angle and the lower angle are opposite and are configured to generate a resultant force between the floating devices from the contact surfaces between the second upper stop and the second lower stop and the second upper counter-stop and the second lower counter-stop in the event of traction, which resultant force tends to move the upper and lower parts of the locking system closer together.

[0044] According to one embodiment, the first floating device and the second floating device comprise a tube having an open end sealed by a plug,

[0045] and wherein the first coupling element, the first upper stop, the second lower stop and the at least one plug are an integral plastic component, typically injection molded, and / or

[0046] The second coupling element, the second upper stop, the second lower stop and the at least one plug are a one-piece plastic part, typically injection-molded.

[0047] According to one embodiment, the first coupling element, the first upper stop and the second lower stop extend along an edge of the first floating device in a longitudinal direction parallel to the virtual plane, and wherein the second coupling element, the second upper stop and the second lower stop extend longitudinally along an edge of the first floating device in said longitudinal direction parallel to the virtual plane,

[0048] And wherein the locking system comprising the upper part and the lower part is a profile or a profile assembly which is placed simultaneously on the first coupling element and the second coupling element in the longitudinal direction.

[0049] According to one embodiment, the first floating device comprises a blow-extruded float, and wherein a first coupling element comprising a first upper stop and a first lower stop is integral with said blow-extruded float, obtained during the blow-extrusion process of said float, and / or wherein the second floating device comprises a blow-extruded float, and wherein a second coupling element comprising a second upper stop and a second lower stop is integral with said blow-extruded float, obtained during the blow-extrusion process of said float. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0050] Other features, details and advantages will become apparent upon reading the following detailed description and analyzing the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0051] Figure 1

[0052] [ Figure 1 ] On the left side a floating solar device assembled from floating devices having a triangular structure is shown, including a coupling system between the floating devices, which includes a plurality of lugs, and on the right side a detailed view is shown of an assembly of three superimposed lugs, which are offset in height, traversed by locking members, and as known in the prior art.

[0053] Figure 2

[0054] [ Figure 2 ] shows the bending of two superimposed lugs, through which the same locking member passes, due to the offset of the lug heights and the application of tensile stresses shown by two opposite arrows.

[0055] Figure 3

[0056] [ Figure 3 ] shows an embodiment of the present disclosure, which includes three coupling elements, including: a first coupling element, which is intended to be integrated with a first floating device and protrude laterally from the first floating device, a second coupling element, which is intended to be integrated with a second floating device and protrude laterally from the second floating device, and a third decoupling element, which is intended to be integrated with a third floating device and protrude laterally from the third floating device, the coupling elements are distributed at approximately 120° to the installation axis of the coupling system, the three coupling elements (in the static position) extend in the same virtual plane parallel to the water body, and are retained by a locking system, which includes an upper part covering the three coupling elements from above and a lower part covering the three coupling elements from below, the upper part and the lower part are screwed to each other to clamp the three coupling elements.

[0057] Figure 3A

[0058] [ Figure 3A] is a cross-sectional view through the mounting axis, forming the axis for threading the upper part to the lower part, and the cross-sectional view particularly shows:

[0059] - a first upper stop protruding upwards and a first lower stop protruding downwards, which are distributed on either side of said first coupling element,

[0060] - a second upper stop protruding upwards and a second lower stop protruding downwards, which are distributed on either side of the second coupling element,

[0061] an upper part of the locking system configured to cover the first coupling element and the second coupling element, the upper part comprising a first upper counter-stop configured to come into contact with the first upper stop and a second upper counter-stop configured to come into contact with the second upper stop,

[0062] a lower part of the locking system configured to cover the first coupling element and the second coupling element, comprising a first lower counter-stop configured to be in contact with the first lower stop and a second lower counter-stop configured to be in contact with the second lower stop.

[0063] Figure 3B

[0064] [ Figure 3B ] is a detailed view showing that the (first or second) upper stopper and the (first or second) upper counter-stopper have contact surfaces engaging each other, inclined at an angle above relative to a direction perpendicular to the virtual plane, and the (first or second) lower stopper and the (first or second) lower counter-stopper have contact surfaces engaging each other, inclined at an angle below relative to a direction perpendicular to the virtual plane,

[0065] The upper angle and the lower angle are opposite and are configured to generate a resultant force between the floating device from the contact surfaces between the (first or second) upper stop and the lower stop and the (first or second) upper counter-stop and the lower counter-stop in the case of traction, which resultant force tends to move the upper and lower parts of the locking system closer together, particularly to avoid tensile stress when the threads between the upper and lower parts of the locking system are loosened.

[0066] Figure 4

[0067] [ Figure 4 ]On the left side is a top view of the coupling system when the upper part of the locking system is removed, showing the upper stops (first, second and third) in the form of arcs, and the three upper stops extend coaxially with the mounting axis. On the right side is a bottom view of the coupling system when the lower part of the locking system is removed, showing the lower stops (first, second and third) in the form of arcs, and the three lower stops extend coaxially with the mounting axis.

[0068] Figure 5

[0069] [ Figure 5 ] shows:

[0070] - a detailed view of the upper part of the locking system on the left, in the form of a (first) one-piece moulded plastic part, comprising a (first) circular shoulder on the disc-shaped part, intended to be located above the (first, second and third) coupling elements, comprising a coupling member, located in the centre of the disc-shaped part, protruding with an external thread, and

[0071] - On the right is a detailed view of the lower part of the locking system in the form of a (second) one-piece molded plastic part, comprising a (second) circular shoulder located on the disc-shaped part, which is intended to be located below the (first, second and third) coupling elements, comprising a complementary coupling member, located in the center of the disc-shaped part, protruding with an internal thread, which is intended to be screwed into an external thread.

[0072] Figure 6

[0073] [ Figure 6 ] is a schematic diagram of a second embodiment according to the present disclosure, wherein the first coupling element, the first upper stopper and the second lower stopper extend along the edge of the first floating device in a longitudinal direction parallel to the virtual plane, and the second coupling element, the second upper stopper and the second lower stopper extend longitudinally along the edge of the first floating device in the longitudinal direction parallel to the virtual plane,

[0074] And wherein the locking system comprising the upper part and the lower part is a profile assembled from profiles, which is placed on the first coupling element and the second coupling element simultaneously in the longitudinal direction.

[0075] Figure 7

[0076] [ Figure 7 ] is a cross-sectional view showing the (first and second, upper and lower) stops of the first coupling element and the second coupling element, in particular:

[0077] - a first coupling element comprising a first upper stop and a first lower stop, integral with the blow-moulded float of the first floating device, obtained during the blow extrusion of said float,

[0078] - A second coupling element comprising a second upper stop and a second lower stop, integral with the blow-moulded float of the second floating device, obtained during the blow extrusion of said float. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0079] Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to a floating modular assembly 1 comprising at least two floating devices D1 , D2, D3 and a coupling system configured to mechanically connect the at least two floating devices.

[0080] The coupling system comprises:

[0081] a first coupling element E1 integral with the first floating device D1 and protruding laterally therefrom, and a second coupling element E2 integral with the second floating device D2 and protruding laterally therefrom,

[0082] - a detachable locking system configured to connect the first coupling element and the second coupling element.

[0083] According to the present disclosure, in a rest position of the assembly, wherein the modular floating assembly floats on a calm body of water, the first coupling element E1 and the second coupling element E2 are substantially aligned in a virtual plane PL parallel to the surface of the body of water,

[0084] In particular, the coupling elements E1 , E2 (in particular the first and second coupling elements) are arranged to protrude laterally at the same height, rather than at different heights according to the prior art mentioned in the introduction.

[0085] It is also worth noting that:

[0086] - the first coupling element E1 comprises an upwardly protruding first upper stopper B1S and a downwardly protruding first lower stopper B1I distributed on either side of said first coupling element E1,

[0087] The second coupling element E2 comprises an upwardly protruding second upper stop B2S and a downwardly protruding second lower stop B2I distributed on either side of said second coupling element E2.

[0088] According to the present disclosure, the detachable locking system includes an upper part VS and a lower part VI configured to clamp the first coupling element E1 and the second coupling element E2.

[0089] The upper portion VS is configured to cover the first coupling element E1 and the second coupling element E2 from above, and includes a first upper counter stopper CB1S configured to contact the first upper stopper B1S and a second upper counter stopper CB2S configured to contact the second upper stopper B2S.

[0090] The lower portion VI is configured to cover the first coupling element E1 and the second coupling element E2 from below, and includes a first lower counter stopper CB1I configured to contact the first lower stopper B1I and a second lower counter stopper CB2I configured to contact the second lower stopper B2I.

[0091] According to one embodiment:

[0092] - the first coupling element E1 , the first upper stop B1S and the first lower stop B1I may be formed by a single-piece, typically plastic element,

[0093] The second coupling element E2, the second upper stop B2S and the second lower stop B2I may be formed by a single-piece, typically plastic element.

[0094] According to the present disclosure, a tensile stress tending to move the first coupling element E1 and the second coupling element E2 apart is applied between the two floating devices D1, D2, particularly in the horizontal direction, and the coupling system is configured so that the first upper stopper and the first lower stopper B1S, B1I engage with the first upper counter-stopper and the first lower counter-stopper CB1S, CB1I, and the second upper stopper and the second lower stopper B2S, B2I engage with the second upper counter-stopper CB2S, CB2I, so as to resist and limit the spacing between the first coupling element E1 and the second coupling element E2.

[0095] Generally speaking, the component may include a third floating device D3, the coupling system includes a third coupling element E3 protruding laterally and integral with the (third) floating device extending in the virtual plane PL, a third upper stop B3S and a third lower stop B3I, and the upper part of the locking system may include a third upper reverse stop and a third lower reverse stop.

[0096] Thus, the locking system can connect more than two floating devices, in particular according to Figures 3 to 6 The embodiment can connect three floating devices, or even more, that is, the assembly can include the nth floating device and the nth coupling element and its upper and lower stops. The coupling system can reasonably connect six floating devices via six separate coupling elements.

[0097] According to one embodiment, the first coupling element E1 protruding laterally from the first floating device D1 comprises at least one flexible length portion PF, and the second coupling element E2 protruding laterally from the second floating device comprises at least one flexible length portion PF. When the coupling elements are made of plastic, the flexible portion of each coupling element may typically be formed by a portion of the thinner element.

[0098] Advantageously, said first coupling element E1 and said second coupling element E2 are flexible and are configured to allow, when locked to each other by a locking system, a relative displacement between the first device D1 and the second floating device D2 by deforming the flexible length portion PF, in particular in rough sea conditions, said first coupling element E1 and said second coupling element E2 being deformed outside the virtual plane PL.

[0099] According to the present invention, the modular floating assembly formed by assembling the floating device through the flexible coupling system can advantageously adapt and deform in rough sea conditions by deforming the coupling elements (particularly the first coupling element and the second coupling element) with the movement of waves.

[0100] According to an advantageous embodiment, the coupling system is configured to apply, in the rest position of the floating assembly, between the two floating devices D1 , D2 a tensile stress tending to move the first coupling element E1 and the second coupling element E2 apart, so as to:

[0101] - balancing the upper force of the first upper counter-stop CB1S on the first upper stop B1S on the one hand and the lower force of the first lower counter-stop CB1I on the first lower stop B1I on the other hand, so as to apply a tensile stress to the first coupling element E1 in a virtual plane, and

[0102] - Balancing the upper force of the second upper counter-stop CB2S on the second upper stop B2S on the one hand and the force of the second lower counter-stop CB2I on the second lower stop B2I on the other hand, so as to apply a tensile stress to the second coupling element E2 in the virtual plane.

[0103] In other words, this balance means that when the float is repeatedly pulled, the coupling element itself does not bend, especially in the flexible portion.

[0104] According to such an embodiment, and in particular to ensure the aforementioned balance:

[0105] - in the static position of the assembly, the upper stop (particularly the first upper stop B1S or the second upper stop B2S) may be symmetrical relative to the lower stop (particularly the first lower stop B1I or the second lower stop B2I) relative to the virtual plane PL,

[0106] - In the static position of the assembly, the upper counter-stop (particularly the first upper counter-stop CB1S or the second upper counter-stop CB2S) can be symmetrical relative to the lower counter-stop (particularly the first lower counter-stop CB1I or the second lower counter-stop CB2I) relative to the virtual plane PL.

[0107] According to one embodiment, according to Figures 3 to 6 As a non-limiting example, the upper part VS and the lower part VI of the locking system may be two detachable parts configured to be fixed to each other to clamp the first coupling element E1 and the second coupling element E2.

[0108] To this end, the two removable upper and lower parts VS, VI may respectively comprise a coupling member OC and mutually engaging complementary coupling members OCC which may extend axially along a mounting axis A perpendicular to the virtual plane PL between the coupling elements E1, E2, E3 to be connected.

[0109] According to one embodiment, the coupling member OC and the complementary coupling member OCC may be configured to be assembled together by a threaded connection.

[0110] To this end, in particular the coupling member OC and the complementary coupling member OCC respectively comprise an external thread Fe and an internal thread Fi arranged to engage each other. The coupling member and the complementary coupling member extend along a threaded connection axis coinciding with the mounting axis A in the rest position of the floating assembly.

[0111] According to one embodiment (not shown), said coupling member OC and said complementary coupling member may then be further engaged by elastic interlocking, ie the two members OC, OCC are clamped together.

[0112] Preferably, the tightening mode is chosen between the coupling members OC, OCC so as to allow a quick coupling between the two members. The coupling member OC and the complementary coupling member OCC may be formed by two elements, each being a single piece, generally of molded plastic, in particular having a threaded portion obtained during the plastic molding process. Alternatively, the coupling member and the complementary coupling member may comprise, on the one hand, two parts, generally of plastic, for clamping the first coupling element E1 and the second coupling element E2, the two parts having orifices, and, on the other hand, bolts, i.e. screws and nuts passing through the orifices of the two parts.

[0113] According to one embodiment, the coupling elements E1, E2, E3, ... up to the nth coupling element may be distributed around the mounting axis, on the periphery of the connecting member OC, OOC, such as Figures 3 to 6 As shown in the embodiment.

[0114] According to such an embodiment:

[0115] - the upper part VS of the locking system comprises an upper circular shoulder EPS, preferably coaxial with said mounting axis A, on which are formed on two different angular sections a first upper counter-stop CB1 and a second upper counter-stop CB2, the first upper stop B1S and the second upper stop B2S extending along a portion or arc of a circle,

[0116] - The lower part VI of the locking system comprises a lower circular shoulder EPI, preferably coaxial with the mounting axis, on which a first lower counter-stop CB1I and a second lower counter-stop CB2I are formed at two different angular sections, the first lower stop B1I and the second lower stop B2I extending along parts of a circular arc.

[0117] When the number of coupling elements is greater than two, the circular shoulder (lower or upper part, respectively) may form the third counter-stop, or even the nth counter-stop (lower or upper part, respectively), in the presence of a third coupling element.

[0118] Advantageously, said first coupling element E1 and said second coupling element E2, or even said third coupling element E3, are on the one hand adjustable relative to one another about the mounting axis A, thus allowing:

[0119] - various angular positions of the first upper stop B1S and the second upper stop B2S (or even the third upper stop B3S, or even the nth upper stop) on said upper circular shoulder EPS,

[0120] - Various angular positions of the first B1I and second B2I lower stops (or even the third B3S upper stop, or even the nth upper stop) on said lower circular shoulder EPI.

[0121] Thus, the coupling system can accommodate various angular configurations of the coupling elements and is advantageously universal.

[0122] In a general way, such as Figure 5 As shown, the removable upper part VS of the locking system can include a disc-shaped part. The upper circular shoulder EPS extends close to the edge of the disc and protrudes from one of the faces of the disc. On the same side, a coupling member extends from the central part of the disc towards the center, in particular with an external thread Fe. The removable lower part VI itself can include a disc-shaped part. The lower circular shoulder EPI extends close to the edge of the disc and protrudes from one of the faces of the disc. On the same side, a complementary coupling member extends from the central part of the disc towards the center, in particular with an internal thread Fi.

[0123] On the opposite side of the effective contact surface of the upper circular shoulder EPS or the lower circular shoulder EPI, radial ribs with a reinforcing function can be provided, which are evenly distributed around the threaded connection axis to strengthen the support for the contact surface of the shoulder.

[0124] According to one embodiment, the (first, second and third or even nth) stops and the (first, second and third or even nth) counter-stops may comprise contact surfaces inclined relative to the vertical which favour bringing the upper and lower parts towards each other when a traction force is applied between the floating devices: the force exerted by the stops on the counter-stops is prevented from exerting a vertical force component which tends to unlock by separating the upper part VS from the lower part VI (in particular by unscrewing the connection).

[0125] This design can especially be Figure 3A and 3B Understand.

[0126] In particular, and especially in Figure 3B In the figure, the first upper stop B1S and the first upper reverse stop CB1S have contact surfaces engaging with each other, inclined at an angle α1S above the direction perpendicular to the virtual plane, and the first lower stop B1I and the first lower reverse stop CB1I have contact surfaces engaging with each other, inclined at an angle α1I below the direction perpendicular to the virtual plane.

[0127] The upper and lower angles α1S, α1I are opposite and are configured to generate, in the case of traction, a resultant force F1S, F1I between the floating devices D1, D2, D3 from the contact surfaces between the first upper stop and the first lower stop B1S, B1I and the first upper counter-stop and the first lower counter-stop CB1S, CB1I, which tends to move the upper part VS and the lower part VI of the locking system closer together.

[0128] Likewise, in Figure 3B In the figure, the second upper stop B2S and the first upper reverse stop CB2S have contact surfaces inclined at an angle α2S relative to a direction perpendicular to the virtual plane, and the first lower stop B2I and the first lower reverse stop CB2I have contact surfaces inclined at an angle α2I relative to a direction perpendicular to the virtual plane.

[0129] The upper and lower angles α2S, α2I are opposite and are configured to generate, in the case of traction, a resultant force F2S, F2I between the floating devices D1, D2 from the contact surfaces between the second upper stop and the second lower stop B2S, B2I and the second upper counter-stop and the second lower counter-stop CB2S, CB2I, which tends to move the upper part VS and the lower part VI of the locking system closer together.

[0130] therefore, Figure 3B Shows:

[0131] the force F1S of the first upper stop B1S acting on the first upper counter-stop CB1S and the force F2S of the second upper stop B2S acting on the second upper counter-stop CB2S comprise a vertical component directed downwards which presses the upper part VS of the locking system downwards,

[0132] The force F1I of the first lower stop B1I acting on the first lower counter-stop CB1I and the force F2I of the second lower stop B2I acting on the second lower counter-stop CB2I comprise an upwardly directed vertical component which presses the lower counter-stop VI of the locking system upwards.

[0133] According to one embodiment, the first and second floating devices D1 and D2 may include a tube TB having an open end sealed by a plug BC, and as shown in FIG. Figure 3 According to one embodiment, the first coupling element E1, the first upper stop B1S, the second lower stop B1I and the at least one plug BC may be a one-piece plastic component, typically injection molded.

[0134] Likewise, the second coupling element E1 , the second upper stop B2S, the second lower stop B2I and the at least one plug BC may be a one-piece plastic component, typically injection-molded.

[0135] In particular, each coupling element may comprise two plugs, in particular inclined at 60° relative to each other, so that a floating device may be obtained, which comprises a triangular structure formed by three tubes TB, generally cylindrical, and a coupling element with two plugs connecting the ends of the two tubes at each vertex of the triangle. The plugs BC may be tightly welded to the tubes to ensure the buoyancy of the floating device, in particular in order to obtain a solar device according to WO2012139998 of the present applicant.

[0136] According to another embodiment, in particular Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the first coupling element E1, the first upper stopper B1S and the second lower stopper B1I may extend along the edge of the first floating device D1 in the longitudinal direction DL parallel to the virtual plane, and the second coupling element E2, the second upper stopper B2S and the second lower stopper B2I may extend longitudinally along the edge of the first floating device D2 in the longitudinal direction DL parallel to the virtual plane.

[0137] The locking system comprising the upper part VS and the lower part VI is, for example, a profile assembled from profiles PF1, PF2, PF3, which slides simultaneously on the first coupling element E1 and the second coupling element E2 in the longitudinal direction DL. Alternatively, the profile is assembled from three profiles forming the upper part VS (i.e. the first profile PF1) and the lower part VI (i.e. the second profile PF2 and the third profile PF3), respectively, which are assembled by mutual engagement through a coupling member OC and a complementary coupling member OCC.

[0138] The coupling member OC may be a hook groove, in particular a double groove, i.e. a first groove and a second groove of a first profile PF1, inside which, on the one hand, a second profile PF2 may be fixed, the second profile PF2 comprising a first complementary coupling member OCC comprising a first latching groove, which is threaded in the first latching groove, and a third profile PF3 comprising a second complementary coupling member OCC comprising a second latching groove, which is threaded in the second latching groove. The cross section of the latching rib may be T-shaped, the groove having a complementary cross section to prevent the rib from being separated through the groove entrance. In other words, the assembly and disassembly between a pair of ribs and grooves can only be achieved by inserting the rib into the groove through the opening of the longitudinal end of the groove.

[0139] The profile may comprise holes for fastening members (rivets, screws, etc.) intended to fasten the profile through said coupling elements, passing through both the profile and said coupling elements E1, E2. The function of these fastening members is to limit the displacement in the direction DL and to fix the spacing between the upper part VS and the lower part VI.

[0140] The first floating device D1 may comprise a blown extruded float. Advantageously, the first coupling element E1 comprising a first upper stop B1S and a first lower stop B1I may be integral with said blown extruded float, obtained during the blow extrusion process of said float. And

[0141] The second floating device D2 may comprise a blow extruded float. The second coupling element E2 comprising a second upper stop B2S and a second lower stop B2I may be integral with said blow extruded float, obtained during the blow extrusion of said float.

[0142] Industrial Applications

[0143] The assembly according to the present disclosure has particular application in obtaining modular floating devices with increased mechanical strength, and more specifically in the field of floating photovoltaics.

[0144] Reference numerals list

[0145] -1: Floating modular components

[0146] -PV. Photovoltaic panels

[0147] -R1,R2,R3. The rows of the panel (first, second and third row)

[0148] -D1, D2, D3. The first, second and third floating devices respectively

[0149] -Vn. Water channels between panel rows

[0150] -5 coupling system (according to the prior art Figure 1 )

[0151] -50. Lug (existing technology)

[0152] -51. Locking member (prior art)

[0153] -PL. Virtual plane

[0154] -E1, E2, E3. The first coupling element, the second coupling element and the third coupling element extend in a virtual plane (in a static position) respectively

[0155] -B1S, B2S are the first and second upper stoppers respectively

[0156] -B1I, B3I are the first and second lower stoppers respectively

[0157] -CB1S, CB2S are the first and second upper reverse stops respectively

[0158] -CB1I, CB2I are the first and second lower reverse stoppers respectively

[0159] -F1S. Force of the first upper stopper on the first upper reverse stopper ( Figure 3B )

[0160] -F1I. Force of the first lower stop on the first lower reverse stop ( Figure 3B )

[0161] -F2S. Force of the second upper stopper on the second upper reverse stopper ( Figure 3B )

[0162] -F2I. The force of the second lower stop on the second lower reverse stop ( Figure 3B )

[0163] -PF. Flexible part (first, second or third coupling element)

[0164] -VS. Upper part (locking system)

[0165] -VI. Lower part (locking system)

[0166] -A installation axis, especially the threaded connection axis

[0167] -OC; OCC. Respectively, coupling members and complementary coupling members that engage with each other

[0168] -Fe, Fi. External threads and internal threads that are mutually engaged by threaded connection (respectively belonging to the coupling member and the complementary coupling member)

[0169] -α1S, α1I. Relative upper and lower angles (respectively located between the contact surfaces of the upper and lower first stoppers and the upper and lower first reverse stoppers)

[0170] -α2S, α2I. Relative upper and lower angles (located between the contact surfaces of the upper and lower second stoppers and the upper and lower second counter-stoppers, respectively)

[0171] -PF. Profile

[0172] -PF1, PF2, PF3. First, second and third profiles

Claims

1. A modular floating assembly (1) comprising at least two floating devices (D1, D2, D3) and a coupling system, wherein the coupling system is configured to mechanically connect the at least two floating devices, The coupling system comprises: a first coupling element (E1) which is integral with the first floating device (D1) and projects laterally from the first floating device (D1), - a second coupling element (E2) which is integral with the second floating device (D2) and projects laterally from the second floating device (D2), - a detachable locking system configured to connect said first coupling element and said second coupling element, characterised in that, in a rest position of the assembly, wherein the modular floating assembly floats on a calm body of water, the first coupling element (E1) and the second coupling element (E2) are substantially aligned in a virtual plane (PL) parallel to the surface of the body of water, and wherein the first coupling element (E1) comprises an upwardly protruding first upper stopper (B1S) and a downwardly protruding first lower stopper (B1I) distributed on either side of the first coupling element (E1), and wherein the second coupling element (E2) comprises an upwardly protruding second upper stopper (B2S) and a downwardly protruding second lower stopper (B2I) distributed on either side of the second coupling element (E2), And wherein, the detachable locking system comprises: - an upper portion (VS) configured to cover the first coupling element (E1) and the second coupling element (E2), comprising a first upper counter-stop (CB1S) configured to be in contact with the first upper stop (B1S) and a second upper counter-stop (CB2S) configured to be in contact with the second upper stop (B2S), a lower portion (VI) configured to cover the first coupling element (E1) and the second coupling element (E2), comprising a first lower counter-stop (CB1I) configured to be in contact with the first lower stop (B1I) and a second lower counter-stop (CB2I) configured to be in contact with the second lower stop (B2I), And wherein a tensile stress tending to move the first coupling element (E1) and the second coupling element (E2) apart is applied between the two floating devices (D1, D2), and the coupling system is configured so that the first upper stopper and the first lower stopper (B1S, B1I) engage with the first upper counter-stopper and the first lower counter-stopper (CB1S, CB1I), and the second upper stopper and the second lower stopper (B2S, B2I) engage with the second upper counter-stopper and the second lower counter-stopper (CB2S, CB2I) so as to resist and limit the spacing between the first coupling element (E1) and the second coupling element (E2).

2. The modular floating assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first coupling element (E1) protruding laterally from the first floating device includes at least one flexible length portion (PF), and the second coupling element (E2) protruding laterally from the second floating device includes at least one flexible length portion (PF), the first flexible coupling element (E1) and the second flexible coupling element (E2) being configured to enable relative displacement of the first device (D1) and the floating device (D2) under rough sea conditions by deforming the flexible length portion (PF) when locked to each other by the locking system, the first coupling element (E1) and the second coupling element (E2) being deformed outside the virtual plane (PL).

3. The modular floating assembly according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The coupling system is configured to apply, in the rest position of the floating assembly, between the two floating devices (D1, D2) a tensile stress tending to move the first coupling element (E1) and the second coupling element (E2) apart so as to: - balancing the upper force of the first upper counter-stop (CB1S) on the first upper stop (B1S) on the one hand and the lower force of the first lower counter-stop (CB1I) on the first lower stop (B1I) on the other hand, so as to apply a tensile stress to the first coupling element (E1) in the virtual plane, and - Balancing the upper force of the second upper counter-stop (CB2S) on the second upper stop (B2S) on the one hand and the force of the second lower counter-stop (CB2I) on the second lower stop (B2I) on the other hand, so as to apply a tensile stress to the second coupling element (E2) in the virtual plane.

4. The modular floating assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The upper part (VS) and the lower part (VI) of the locking system are two detachable parts, which are configured to be fixed to each other so as to grasp the first coupling element (E1) and the second coupling element (E2). The two detachable upper and lower parts (VS, VI) respectively include a coupling member (OC) and a complementary coupling member (OCC) that engages with each other. The coupling member (OC) and the complementary coupling member (OCC) are configured to be assembled with each other by threaded connection or by flexible interlocking.

5. The modular floating assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that: The coupling member (OC) and the complementary coupling member (OCC) extend axially along an installation axis (A) perpendicular to the virtual plane (PL). Specifically, the coupling member (OC) and the complementary coupling member (OCC) include external threads (Fe) and internal threads (Fi) that engage with each other, and extend axially along a threaded connection axis that coincides with the installation axis (A) in a static position of the floating assembly.

6. The modular floating assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that: - the upper part (VS) of the locking system comprises an upper circular shoulder (EPS), preferably coaxial with the mounting axis (A), on which the first upper counter-stop (CB1) and the second upper counter-stop (CB2) are formed in two different angular sections of the upper circular shoulder (EPS), the first upper stop (B1S) and the second upper stop (B2S) extending along parts of a circular arc, -The lower part (VI) of the locking system comprises a lower circular shoulder (EPI), preferably coaxial with the mounting axis, and the first lower counter stop (CB1I) and the second lower counter stop (CB2I) are formed on two different angular sections of the lower circular shoulder (EPI), and the first lower stop (B1I) and the second lower stop (B2I) extend along parts of a circular arc.

7. The modular floating assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that: The first coupling element (E1) and the second coupling element (E1) are adjustable relative to each other about the mounting axis (A) so as to allow: - various angular positions of the first upper stop (B1S) and the second upper stop (B2S) on the upper circular shoulder (EPS), - Various angular positions of said first lower stop (B1I) and said second lower stop (B2I) on said lower circular shoulder (EPI).

8. A modular floating assembly according to any one of claims 6 to 7, comprising a third floating device (D3), the coupling system comprising a third coupling element (E3) extending laterally in the virtual plane (PL) and integral with the floating device, and a third upper stop (B3S) and a third lower stop (B3I), which are respectively configured to be supported on the upper circular shoulder (EPS) and the lower circular shoulder (EPI), and supported on a third upper counter-stop and a third lower counter-stop.

9. The modular floating assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that: The first upper stopper (B1S) and the first upper counter stopper (CB1S) have contact surfaces engaging with each other, inclined at an upper angle (α1S) relative to a direction perpendicular to the virtual plane, and the first lower stopper (B1I) and the first lower counter stopper (CB1I) have contact surfaces engaging with each other, inclined at a lower angle (α1I) relative to a direction perpendicular to the virtual plane, The upper and lower angles (α1S, α1I) are opposite and are configured to generate, in the case of traction, a resultant force (F1S, F1I) between the floating devices (D1, D2, D3) from the contact surfaces between the first upper stop and the first lower stop (B1S, B1I) and the first upper counter-stop and the first lower counter-stop (CB1S, CB1I), which tends to move the upper part (VS) and the lower part (VI) of the locking system closer together, and / or wherein the second upper stop (B2S) and the first upper counter stop (CB2S) have contact surfaces inclined at an angle (α2S) above the direction perpendicular to the virtual plane, and the first lower stop (B2I) and the first lower counter stop (CB2I) have contact surfaces inclined at an angle (α2I) below the direction perpendicular to the virtual plane, The upper and lower angles (α2S, α2I) are opposite and are configured to generate a resultant force (F2S, F2I) between the floating device (D1, D2, D3) from the contact surfaces between the second upper stop and the second lower stop (B2S, B2I) and the second upper counter stop and the second lower counter stop (CB2S, CB2I) in the case of traction, and the resultant force tends to move the upper part (VS) and the lower part (VI) of the locking system closer together.

10. The modular floating assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that: The first floating device (D1) and the second floating device (D2) comprise a tube (TB) having an open end sealed by a plug (BC), and wherein the first coupling element (E1), the first upper stop (B1S), the second lower stop (B1I) and the at least one plug (BC) are integral plastic parts, typically injection molded, and / or The second coupling element (E1), the second upper stop (B2S), the second lower stop (B2I) and the at least one plug (BC) are one-piece plastic parts, usually injection-molded.

11. A modular floating assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3 or 9, characterized in that: The first coupling element (E1), the first upper stopper (B1S) and the second lower stopper (B1I) extend along an edge of the first floating device (D1) in a longitudinal direction (DL) parallel to a virtual plane, and wherein the second coupling element (E2), the second upper stopper (B2S) and the second lower stopper (B2I) extend longitudinally along an edge of the first floating device (D2) in the longitudinal direction (DL) parallel to the virtual plane, And wherein the locking system comprising the upper part (VS) and the lower part (VI) is a profile or a profile assembly (PF1, PF2, PF3) which is placed simultaneously on the first coupling element (E1) and the second coupling element (E2) in the longitudinal direction (DL).

12. The modular floating assembly according to any one of claims 1, 2, 3 or 11, characterized in that: The first floating device (D1) comprises a blow-extruded float, and wherein a first coupling element (E1) comprising a first upper stop (B1S) and a first lower stop (B1I) is integral with the blow-extruded float and is obtained during the blow-extrusion process of the float, and / or wherein the second floating device (D2) comprises a blow-extruded float, and wherein a second coupling element (E2) comprising a second upper stop (B2S) and a second lower stop (B2I) is integral with the blow-extruded float and is obtained during the blow-extrusion process of the float.

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