Floating photovoltaic arrangement

Abstract

A floating photovoltaic (PV) arrangement for supporting at least one PV module having at least one support region, the arrangement comprising: a first elongate float; and a second elongate float having an end interconnected with a side of the first elongate float, where at least one of the floats includes at least one mounting location for supporting the PV module via at least one support region of the PV module.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This specification relates to a floating photovoltaic (PV) arrangement for supporting at least one PV module, including floats and connectors for interconnecting the floats. Background Technology

[0002] Floating photovoltaics (FPV) refers to solar panels mounted on structures that float on bodies of water, such as lakes, reservoirs, or even the open sea. The cost of electricity produced by FPV needs to be competitive with other solar systems, such as ground-mounted and rooftop installations. Cost is related to the materials, installation, and reliability of each system.

[0003] Many existing floating platforms used in FPV applications utilize blow-molded elements as floating walkways. This allows personnel to easily move along the floating platform and perform any inspections, repairs, and maintenance of the FPV structure as needed. However, this floating structure utilizes relatively complex components, the production, transportation, assembly, and / or installation of which are costly, thereby reducing the overall attractiveness and feasibility of FPV. Furthermore, these blow-molded elements are designed to limit the size, weight, shape, and configuration of solar panels. With the current trend of rapidly changing solar panel measurement and layout designs, blow-molded elements need to be produced in new and specific sizes and shapes, thus making them less functional and less suitable for the new trends and rapid changes in the solar PV market.

[0004] Floating structures can also be formed from extruded tubes sealed at both ends. While the production, transportation, and installation of such tubes are significantly cheaper and faster, they may be less functional because walking on them is impractical and they may not be strong or durable enough to withstand strong winds and wave forces.

[0005] Floats with flat tops serving as walkways are often preferred over round tubes; however, the existing challenge lies in how to efficiently arrange and interconnect such floats to form suitable floating structures, platforms, or rafts. Specifically, such floats are often arranged in arrays, which may include floats connected end-to-end. Existing designs and methods for interconnecting floats relative to each other are quite complex, involving several auxiliary components, and field production, transportation, and assembly can be quite cost- and time-intensive. Given the complexity of the design, field installation can be particularly time-intensive, labor-intensive, and therefore cost-intensive. Furthermore, these interconnecting components are made of metal profiles that serve no purpose other than connecting elements together and are susceptible to corrosion over time. In the prior art, there is no existing technology to solve these problems and to vertically connect floats in any size, configuration, and shape.

[0006] In order for FPV to be available and disseminated worldwide, the above-mentioned problems need to be addressed, and / or at least useful alternatives need to be provided. Summary of the Invention

[0007] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, a floating structure is provided, configured to include a buoyant, walkable truss-like array that serves as a platform for a solar energy system including solar panels. The floating structure is formed from tubular floats of any suitable shape or size. The floats are sealed by connectors at their ends and can be connected to other floats vertically or at an angle via the connectors.

[0008] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, a connector is provided for interconnecting an end of a first elongated float having an opening to a side of a second elongated float, the connector comprising:

[0009] The first part, which is used to seal the opening of the first float; and

[0010] The second part has at least one connecting element that protrudes from the side of the second part toward the second float in a vertical or angled direction and is adapted to be connected to the second float.

[0011] It is conceivable that the connector embodiments disclosed herein can be connected anywhere along either side of the second float. In this way, the first float can be fixed relative to the second float almost anywhere along the second float. Therefore, according to embodiments of this disclosure, different modular floating structures having any number of different configurations and arrangements can be easily formed via multiple floats and multiple connectors. In this way, the floats and connectors embodying this disclosure are similar to well-known building blocks that can be assembled together in any number of different ways to form a floating structure that can be customized to specific needs and used for applications involving solar panels of any size, weight, and shape. For example, floating platforms can be formed in different configurations to accommodate different solar panel configurations, functionalities, and installation requirements, and rafts and floating access paths of various widths, lengths, etc., can be formed.

[0012] In some embodiments, the connection between the sides of the connector and the second float can provide at least one degree of freedom to allow relative movement between the first and second floats. This can provide a certain amount of relative movement between interconnected floats; for example, the interconnected floats can move relative to each other in response to wind and / or wave forces.

[0013] In at least one embodiment, at least one connecting element is configured to be coupled to an adapter, which is fixed to the side of the second float.

[0014] In some examples, at least one connecting element includes at least one opening for receiving a coupler to connect the connector to the adapter. For example, at least one opening may include at least one through-hole. The through-hole or each through-hole of the connector may be configured to align with a corresponding through-hole of the adapter, such that the corresponding coupler can be inserted through the aligned through-hole to couple the connector to the adapter.

[0015] It is conceivable that the adapter can be positioned and secured to the second float almost anywhere along the length of either side, thereby allowing the end of the first float to interconnect with the side of the second float at several different locations as needed. Structuring the connector to allow connection at any desired location along the side of the float allows for a standardized production process for the formed tube or pipe without requiring any special production process for connection adjustments, which would otherwise be necessary if the connector were configured to connect at a predetermined location along the float.

[0016] It is conceivable that at least one connecting element may include at least one connector lug protruding from the second portion; and

[0017] At least one through hole may extend through at least one connector lug.

[0018] In some examples, at least one through-hole defines a connecting axis generally parallel to the elongated second float. In at least one example, at least one connecting element includes connector lugs projecting from the second portion, each connector lug having a corresponding through-hole aligned with each other along the connecting axis.

[0019] Connector lugs may be spaced apart from each other and configured to receive adapter lugs protruding from the end of a first portion of the adapter toward the first float therebetween. A through-hole or each through-hole of the adapter is formed through the adapter lug and configured to align with the corresponding through-hole of the connector lug along a connecting axis, such that a coupler can be inserted through the aligned through-holes to couple the connector to the adapter. The coupler may include a pin for coupling the connector to the adapter, such that the connector and the adapter can pivot relative to each other about the longitudinal axis of the pin.

[0020] In some embodiments, at least one connecting element includes a connector surround, and at least one through-hole of the connector includes transverse through-holes aligned with each other along a connecting axis extending through the connector surround. It is conceivable that the connecting axis may be substantially perpendicular to or at other angles to the elongated second float.

[0021] The first portion of the adapter may include an adapter surround projecting from its end toward the first float, and the connector surround and the adapter surround are configured to mate with each other. When mated, the connector surround may be configured to receive the adapter surround, wherein the through-hole formed through the adapter or each through-hole formed through the adapter surround is formed, and is configured to align with the transverse through-hole of the connector surround along the connection axis, such that a coupler can be inserted through the aligned through-hole to couple the connector to the adapter. The coupler may include pins for coupling the connector to the adapter to secure the connector surround to the adapter.

[0022] In some examples, at least one connector lug is shaped to receive within a longitudinal channel extending along the side of the second float. In at least one embodiment, at least one through-hole defines a connection axis that is substantially perpendicular to both the elongated first float and the elongated second float. The at least one through-hole may comprise a pair of spaced-apart through-holes extending vertically through the at least one connector lug. The through-hole, or each through-hole, may be configured to receive a coupler passing through it for attaching a connector to the side of the second float.

[0023] It is conceivable that the connector may be adapted to mate with an adapter within the channel of the second float. In some examples, the coupler, or each coupler, is configured to extend at least one lug through the channel of the second float, the adapter, and the connector to attach the connector to the side of the second float.

[0024] In at least one embodiment, at least one connecting element includes an upper connector lug and a lower connector lug, each having a pair of spaced-apart through holes, the upper connector lug through holes being aligned with a corresponding one of the lower connector lug through holes, such that a corresponding coupler can be received through a channel of the second float, an adapter, and the aligned through holes of the upper and lower connector lugs, in order to connect the connector to the side of the second float.

[0025] In some implementations of the connector:

[0026] The second part is adapted to seal the opening of the first float, such that at least one connector lug protrudes into the interior of the first elongated float; and

[0027] The first part includes at least one second connector lug that protrudes from the first part toward the side of the second float, and at least one second connector is adapted to connect to the side of the second float.

[0028] One can imagine:

[0029] When the first part seals the opening of the first float, at least one second connector lug protrudes into the interior of the first float, and the connector lug protrudes towards the side of the second float to connect with the second float; and

[0030] When the second part seals the opening of the first float, at least one connector lug protrudes into the interior of the first float, and at least one second connector lug protrudes toward the side of the second float to connect with it. This reversibility and therefore versatility of the connector can enhance the manufacture and modularity of floating structures formed using such connectors, since the same connector can be used for different functions as needed.

[0031] According to a third aspect of this disclosure, a connector assembly is provided for interconnecting an end of a first elongated float to a side of a second elongated float, the assembly comprising:

[0032] The connector according to the first aspect of this disclosure; and

[0033] An adapter that can be fixed to the side of the second float.

[0034] At least one connecting element of the connector is configured to be coupled to the adapter.

[0035] The connector can be configured to connect to the side of the second float, so that there are no auxiliary connecting devices for the connection between the connector and the second float.

[0036] In some embodiments, at least one connecting element is adapted to be secured around at least the lower side of the second float. For example, at least one connecting element may include an arm configured to extend at least partially around the circumference of the second float. The arm may extend from an end of the first float adjacent to and below the lower side of the second float to the opposite side of the second float.

[0037] It is conceivable that the connector may include at least two arms configured to extend at least partially around the circumference of the second float. For example, the arms may be spaced apart from each other in a direction along the length of the second float.

[0038] It is conceivable that the connector may define a first connector configured to mate with a similar connector, whereby each spaced-apart arm of the first connector is arranged in an interleaved relationship adjacent to a corresponding spaced-apart arm of the second connector, such that when mated, the interleaved arms of the first and second connectors at least partially define a passage sized to receive the outer circumference of the second elongated float.

[0039] It is conceivable that the connector can contact the float via a central coupler, which is formed in the form of a horseshoe or U-shape, or any other shape suitable for the shape of the float. A single connector or a pair of couplers together define a cylindrical channel for receiving the tubular portion of the float. The connector includes at least an arcuate portion corresponding to the tubular portion of the float to allow for close contact between the connector and the float.

[0040] In some implementations, either the connector or the center coupler is formed with a cavity that is fitted to receive a protrusion or connector lug protruding from either the connector or the center coupler.

[0041] In some embodiments, one or more of the connector, center coupler, and float have openings sized to receive one or more pins, thereby securing the connector and center coupler to the float. This configuration ensures a secure connection between the connector, center coupler, and float by at least one or more of the following: the connector and / or center coupler have arcuate portions that are fitted to tightly connect with the tubular portion of the float; a cavity formed in the center coupler allows the connector to protrude through the cavity and contact the float at the arcuate surface of the connector; and the connector and center coupler are secured to the float via one or more pins. Furthermore, this configuration facilitates securing the float to the connector by pressing the float into the center coupler with pins and locking the float therein, thereby preventing the float from unintentionally protruding upwards away from the connector and center coupler.

[0042] In some implementations, the connector can simply mate with a float that has a center coupler. This installation or assembly method avoids the need to slide each connector along the float into place.

[0043] In some implementations, the arcuate portion extends along the entire end portion of the protrusion, thereby allowing the connector to securely contact the lateral side of the float.

[0044] In some embodiments, the arcuate portion is oriented at a fixed angle relative to the front of the connector, which correspondingly allows the first float to be arranged at a fixed angle relative to the second float. The first float is connected to the rear of the connector at its open end. The arcuate portion connects the first float to the second float at a fixed angle.

[0045] In some embodiments, the connector has an arcuate portion formed at the protruding end portion. The arcuate portion is configured with multiple facades, each oriented at a different angle, thereby allowing the connector to securely contact the lateral side of the float at one of the facades. In this embodiment, the arcuate portion may be configured to be oriented at a variable angle relative to the front of the connector, correspondingly enabling the first float to be arranged at various angles relative to the second float. The first float connects to the rear of the connector at its open end. The arcuate portion connects the first float to the second float at any of the various angles.

[0046] In some implementation schemes:

[0047] The arm of the first connector extends from the end adjacent to the first float and from the side of the second float below the lower side of the second float to the opposite side of the second float; and

[0048] The arm of the second connector extends from the opposite side of the second float and below its underside to the side of the second float adjacent to the end of the first float.

[0049] For example, the arm may be configured to mate with a first side of a central coupler that defines a passage for at least partially surrounding the circumference of the second float, wherein a second side of the central coupler is configured to mate with a similar connector such that the connector and the central coupler therebetween extend substantially around the circumference of the second float.

[0050] It is conceivable that the connector could be configured to connect the end of the first elongated float to the side of the second elongated float, such that the floats are substantially perpendicular to each other.

[0051] In at least one embodiment, the connector is configured to be rotary welded to the first float.

[0052] According to a fourth aspect of this disclosure, an end connector is provided for interconnecting an end of a first elongated float having an opening to an end of a second elongated float having an opening, the end connector comprising:

[0053] The first part, which is used to seal the opening of the first float; and

[0054] The second part has at least one connecting element that protrudes from the end of the second part toward the second float and is adapted to interconnect with the second float.

[0055] At least one connecting element may include at least one hook element adapted to be movably associated with an end of the second float when connected to it. In some examples, the at least one hook element includes at least one hook arm configured to receive a coupler for coupling an end connector relative to an end of the second float. The end connector may include spaced-apart hook arms oriented relative to each other such that the hook arms face an opposing direction.

[0056] The coupler may include a ring, and the hook arm or each hook arm may be oriented such that one arm hooks above the coupler and the other arm hooks below the coupler to facilitate coupling of the end connector relative to the end of the second float.

[0057] The end connector can be configured to mate with a similar end connector arranged to plug the opening of the second float, thereby interconnecting at least one corresponding connecting element of each end connector to interconnect the end of the first float to the end of the second float.

[0058] In at least one embodiment, the hook arm or each hook arm of the connector and the hook arm or each hook arm of the end connector are arranged adjacent to each other in an interleaved relationship, such that adjacent hook arms are oriented relative to each other and aligned to define a coupling path, thereby allowing the coupler to be received through the coupling path to movably couple the connector relative to each other.

[0059] It is conceivable that the connection formed between the ends of the first float and the ends of the second float via the end connector provides at least one degree of freedom to allow relative movement between the first float and the second float.

[0060] The end connector can be configured to be rotated-welded to the first float.

[0061] According to a fifth aspect of this disclosure, a modular floating structure is provided, which is formed by two or more elongated floats connected to each other via the following:

[0062] One or more connectors according to the first aspect of this disclosure; and / or

[0063] One or more end connectors according to the fourth aspect of this disclosure.

[0064] In some implementations, the upper end of each float in the floating structure is substantially flat. It is conceivable that the floating structure may include a raft.

[0065] It can be envisioned that the floats of the floating structure are typically positioned on a plane that floats on the water, such that each float and connector is at least partially submerged in the water.

[0066] It is conceivable that the floating structure could be configured to support solar panels on the water.

[0067] Floating structures may include:

[0068] One or more longitudinal floats oriented in a first direction; and

[0069] One or more lateral floats oriented in a second direction, which is substantially perpendicular to the first direction.

[0070] in:

[0071] At least one end of a lateral float is connected to the side of a longitudinal float via a connector according to the first aspect of this disclosure; and / or

[0072] The end of one float is connected to the end of another float via a connector according to a third aspect of this disclosure.

[0073] The floating structure may include at least two longitudinal floats that are spaced apart from each other in the lateral direction and interconnected with each other via at least two lateral floats.

[0074] In at least one embodiment, the floating structure includes at least two longitudinal floats fixed adjacent to each other via connectors according to a first aspect of the present disclosure, wherein a first portion of a first connector fixed to a first longitudinal float is fixed to a first portion of a relatively oriented second connector fixed to a second and adjacent longitudinal float, such that the respective adjacent upper ends of the floats together define an entry path.

[0075] This document also discloses a floating entry path comprising two or more floating structures according to a floating structure embodiment of the present disclosure, the floating structures being arranged collinearly and interconnected via an arrangement of two or more lateral floats fixed adjacent to each other.

[0076] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a modular floating structure can be formed from two or more floats and connectors. Embodiments of the connectors disclosed herein not only seal elongated floats, but also enable, for example: the end of one float to connect to the side of another float; and / or the end of one float to connect to the end of another float. The connectors embodying this disclosure also enable the side of one float to connect to the side of another float. In this way, the floats and connectors embodying this disclosure are similar to well-known building blocks that can be assembled together in any number of different ways to form a floating structure that can be customized to specific needs and applications.

[0077] Significant costs associated with FPV floating platforms involve the labor costs required for on-site assembly and installation. It is conceivable that, in some embodiments described herein, connectors can be simply attached to the ends of the floats, specifically prior to transport and / or on-site installation, thereby reducing installation time and costs. For example, the floats and connectors can be manufactured first to the specifications of the desired floating structure, and the connectors can be attached to the relevant floats (e.g., via spin welding) before delivery to the field for installation. Upon delivery for on-site installation, personnel only need to interconnect the provided floats to form a modular floating structure. Additionally, the connector embodiments disclosed herein offer relatively easier installation and assembly of the floating structure due to the reduction or elimination of the number of auxiliary connecting parts, making it more time- and cost-effective.

[0078] It is conceivable that, in the connector implementation scheme of this disclosure, it can be formed of substantially the same material as the float and configured to be buoyant in water. In this way, the connector can increase the buoyancy of the resulting floating structure, or at least the connector will not add downward weight to the associated float in the manner that prior art connecting elements (such as metal rods) would. Additionally, by forming the connector from the same material (such as the float), which is often a non-metallic material (such as plastic), the connector does not suffer from the corrosion risks that metal connecting parts are susceptible to in humid environments. Furthermore, the connector, together with the float, functionally provides the component with mechanical strength and durability.

[0079] In some implementations, the first floats are arranged perpendicularly to each other and extend generally along the longitudinal and transverse axes, intersecting a lateral axis orthogonal to the longitudinal and transverse axes. Additionally or alternatively, the second floats are arranged at an angle relative to the first floats, thereby increasing the structural strength of the floating structure by acting as diagonal reinforcing elements and further as structural building blocks within the floating structure. The diagonal reinforcing elements increase the strength and stiffness of the floating structure while preventing angular displacement of the vertically arranged first floats, which could occur due to wave and wind forces. Many types of floating structure arrangements are envisioned.

[0080] In some embodiments, a method is provided for connecting a first elongated float to a second elongated float having sides, comprising connecting the first elongated float to the sides of the second elongated float via one or more connectors described herein.

[0081] In some embodiments, a method for forming a modular floating structure is provided, the method comprising: providing a first elongated float having an opening and a second elongated float having sides, connecting the first elongated float to the sides of the second elongated float via one or more connectors described herein; and sealing the opening of the first float via any one or more end connectors described herein.

[0082] According to one aspect of this subject matter, a float is provided that includes a flat upper surface serving as a stepped surface and includes perforations for anchoring additional components. The float also contains cavities along its length to facilitate wiring of electrical wires.

[0083] According to another aspect of this subject matter, a raft-shaped tube connection is described. This configuration utilizes tubes that serve both as floats and as continuous stepped surfaces, such as entry paths. The tubes are vertically connected in the same plane, with all or at least a portion of their sections connected, and serve as structural components forming the entire raft, which can be rigid or flexible.

[0084] According to a further aspect of this subject matter, a cover including a connector is provided to seal a tube. The cover integrates a geometry that facilitates the installation of a vertical tube by locking it into place, thereby preventing upward displacement.

[0085] According to another aspect of this topic, a U-shaped coupler is used to secure the cap of the vertical tube to the tangential / lateral / side tube. The connection can be achieved using fastening elements such as pins.

[0086] According to a further aspect of this subject matter, a fastening element is provided for connecting a cap of a vertical tube to a U-shaped coupler and a lateral / side tube. The fastening element includes a rotatable locking mechanism that engages with an oval-shaped hole in a flat plate at the top of a float. This design secures the bottom portion of the U-shaped coupler to prevent disassembly and allows for locking an additional flat component with a circular hole to the plate. The pin also facilitates anchoring solar panel accessories to the plate.

[0087] According to another aspect of this subject matter, a system for anchoring solar panels is provided. The system connects the panel to a float at three points to reduce mechanical stress on the panel. The lower portion of the panel is anchored at two distant points, while the upper portion is anchored at two adjacent points using a mounting bracket. This mounting bracket is fitted above the panel frame and connects at a single point to a lifter that links the panel to the float.

[0088] According to a further aspect of this subject matter, an anchoring element, such as a lifter, is described. This lifter includes an inverted tube positioned perpendicular to the float. The tube serves as a vertical support to which the solar panel is securely attached.

[0089] In some connector implementations, at least one connecting element is configured to couple to an adapter secured to a second float. For example, the at least one connecting element may include at least one opening for receiving a coupler to connect the connector to the adapter. In one example, the at least one opening may include at least one through-hole. In this implementation, the through-hole or each through-hole of the connector may be configured to align with a corresponding through-hole of the adapter, such that the corresponding coupler can be inserted through the aligned through-hole to couple the connector to the adapter.

[0090] It is conceivable that at least one connecting element includes at least one connector lug; and at least one through-hole extends through at least one connector lug. In one example, the connector includes spaced-apart connector lugs, each connector lug having at least one through-hole, the at least one through-hole of one connector lug being aligned with the corresponding at least one through-hole of the other connector lug or each other connector lug, such that the aligned connector lug through-hole is configured to receive a corresponding coupler for coupling the connector to an adapter. In some examples, the connector lug is configured to be received by a corresponding slot of the adapter. It is also conceivable that, when coupled to the adapter, the distal end of the connector lug or each connector lug is configured to abut a second float. In this embodiment, the distal end of the connector lug or each connector lug may be arc-shaped to conform to the tubular portion of the second float.

[0091] In some embodiments, the connector may include: an upper connector lug having a vertically extending upper lug through-hole; and a lower connector lug having a vertically extending lower lug through-hole, each lower lug through-hole being aligned with a corresponding upper lug through-hole to form a pair of aligned connector through-holes, wherein each pair of aligned connector through-holes may be aligned with at least one corresponding through-hole of the adapter, such that a corresponding coupler may be inserted through therein to couple the connector to the adapter.

[0092] This document also discloses an adapter adapted to connect with at least one connector disclosed herein, the adapter being secured to a second float to interconnect the connector to the second float. The adapter may include a collar configured to be fixed around at least the lower side of the second float. In some embodiments, the adapter includes at least one transverse frame to which at least one connecting element of the connector can be connected. For example, the at least one transverse frame may have at least one through-hole configured to align with a corresponding at least one through-hole of the connector, such that a corresponding coupler can be inserted through the aligned through-hole to couple the connector to the adapter. In some embodiments, the at least one transverse frame may include: an upper portion having a vertically extending upper portion through-hole; and a lower portion having a vertically extending lower portion through-hole, each lower portion through-hole aligned with a corresponding upper portion through-hole to form a pair of aligned adapter through-holes. In this embodiment, the paired aligned adapter through-holes can be aligned with corresponding aligned connector through-holes, such that a corresponding coupler can be inserted through them to couple the connector and adapter together.

[0093] It is conceivable that at least one transverse frame may include a pair of slots, each slot configured to receive one of the connector lugs of the connector for connecting the connector to the adapter. In some embodiments, the upper portion of the adapter may be received below an upper protrusion of the second float, the upper protrusion having a vertically extending protrusion through-hole that can be aligned with a corresponding upper portion through-hole of the adapter, such that a corresponding coupler can be inserted through the aligned protrusion and upper portion through-hole to couple the adapter to the second float. In this embodiment, the aligned connector through-hole can be aligned with: a corresponding aligned adapter through-hole; and a corresponding protrusion through-hole, such that a corresponding coupler can be inserted through the aligned through-hole to couple the connector, adapter, and second float together.

[0094] In some embodiments, the upper portion of the connector and the upper protrusion of the second float may include cooperating positioning elements to facilitate positioning of the adapter relative to the second float. For example, the upper portion may include at least one positioning pin, and the upper protrusion of the second float may include at least one positioning opening for receiving a corresponding positioning pin to position the adapter relative to the second float prior to interconnection between them.

[0095] It is conceivable that the adapter may include opposing transverse frames configured to extend around the respective sides of the second float.

[0096] This document also discloses a floating photovoltaic (PV) arrangement for supporting at least one PV module having at least one support region. The arrangement includes: a first elongated float; and a second elongated float having an end interconnected with a side of the first elongated float. At least one of the floats includes at least one mounting position for supporting the PV module via at least one support region of the PV module. The first float may include spaced-apart first and second mounting positions for supporting the PV module at corresponding first and second support regions. Additionally, the second float may include a third mounting position for supporting the PV module at a third support region of the PV module.

[0097] In some embodiments, the first side of the PV module includes a first support region and a second support region; and the second side of the PV module includes a third support region. In this embodiment, the three support regions may define corresponding vertices of an imaginary triangle shape. For example, the triangle shape may be substantially equilateral. The triangle shape may also be substantially isosceles, wherein the first and second support regions define the base of the isosceles triangle.

[0098] The arrangements disclosed herein may further include corresponding mounting members for interconnecting at least one support region of the PV module to at least one mounting location. For example, some arrangement embodiments may include first and second mounting members for interconnecting a first support region and a second support region of the PV module to a first mounting location and a second mounting location, respectively. The arrangement may also include a third mounting member for interconnecting a third support region of the PV module to a third mounting location. It is conceivable that each mounting member has substantially the same cross-sectional shape. In some embodiments, the first and second mounting members have a first length, and the third mounting member has a second length greater than the first length.

[0099] It is conceivable that each mounting member may include: a forward portion configured to be fixed to a corresponding support area of ​​the PV module; and a rearward portion configured to be mounted to a corresponding mounting position. In some embodiments, the forward portion of each mounting member may include an opening for receiving the corresponding support area of ​​the PV module, each opening having: an upper jaw arranged at least partially above the frame of the PV module; and a lower jaw arranged at least partially below the PV module. In at least one example, the respective rearward portions of the first and second mounting members may be mounted to a first mounting position and a second mounting position, respectively.

[0100] The mounting element can be configured to hold the PV module in an inclined position, thereby raising a second side of the PV module above the first side. In this embodiment, the arrangement may further include a lifter fixed to at least one mounting location, operable to lift the PV module at at least one support region of the PV module. For example, the lifter may include a third mounting location for supporting the PV module at a third support region of the PV module. In at least one embodiment, the lifter is in the form of a third float. For example, the third float may be inverted such that the third mounting location of the third float is coupled to a second float.

[0101] In some embodiments of the arrangement disclosed herein: the PV module is substantially rectangular; the first float is generally aligned with a first side of the PV module; and the second float is substantially perpendicular to the first float. In at least one embodiment, the third float is parallel to the first float. The arrangement may also include opposing PV modules and opposing first floats, each of which is arranged to mirror the PV module and the first float respectively, wherein the respective sides of adjacent PV modules are interconnected to the second float.

[0102] An embodiment of this arrangement may further include a connector for interconnecting an end of a first float to a side of a second float, the connector comprising: a first portion for sealing an opening of the first float; and a second portion having at least one connecting element that protrudes from the second portion toward a side of the second float and is adapted to connect with the second float.

[0103] This document also discloses a floating photovoltaic support system comprising multiple arrangements of at least one arrangement embodiment disclosed herein, arranged in a grid-like configuration.

[0104] This document also discloses a kit for forming a floating photovoltaic support system as disclosed herein, the kit comprising: a plurality of floats for supporting PV modules; and a plurality of mounting brackets for interconnecting the PV modules to the floats. The kit may further include a plurality of connectors for interconnecting the floats.

[0105] It is conceivable that the pipes, tubular shapes, or tubes disclosed herein include any elongated structure formed in any suitable shape or size (cylindrical or non-cylindrical), and include at least an opening at the end of the lumen or conduit, tubular shape, or tube.

[0106] Although this specification discusses floating structures such as floating platforms for FPV, it will be understood that the teachings herein can also be adapted to form any number of different floating structures, such as houseboats, docks, access paths, etc.

[0107] For the purpose of describing all the examples described in the subject matter disclosed herein, it will be understood herein that the terms “integral formation” or “integral connection” or “integral assembly” or their equivalents relating to two elements or parts are intended to specify that the elements are formed individually and connected together. Additionally, the terms “unified formation” or “unified connection” or “unified body” or their equivalents relating to two elements or parts are intended to...

[0108] Implementation Plan

[0109] More specific descriptions are provided in the detailed embodiments, while the following are non-limiting examples of different implementations of the subject matter disclosed herein.

[0110] 1. A connector for interconnecting an end of a first elongated float having an opening to a side of a second elongated float, the connector comprising:

[0111] A first part, the first part being used to seal the opening of the first float; and

[0112] The second part has at least one connecting element that protrudes from the side of the second part toward the second float and is adapted to be connected to the second float.

[0113] 2. The connector according to embodiment 1, wherein the connection between the connector and the side of the second float provides at least one degree of freedom to allow relative movement between the first float and the second float.

[0114] 3. The connector according to embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the at least one connecting element is configured to be coupled to an adapter, the adapter being fixed to the side of the second float.

[0115] 4. The connector according to embodiment 3, wherein the at least one connecting element includes at least one opening for receiving a coupler to connect the connector to the adapter.

[0116] 5. The connector according to embodiment 4, wherein the at least one opening includes at least one through hole.

[0117] 6. The connector according to embodiment 5, wherein the through-hole or each through-hole of the connector is configured to align with a corresponding through-hole of the adapter, such that a corresponding coupler can be inserted through the aligned through-hole to couple the connector to the adapter.

[0118] 7. The connector according to embodiment 6, wherein:

[0119] The at least one connecting element includes at least one connector lug protruding from the second portion; and

[0120] The at least one through hole extends through the at least one connector lug.

[0121] 8. The connector according to embodiment 7, wherein the at least one through hole defines a connection axis that is substantially parallel to the elongated second float.

[0122] 9. The connector according to embodiment 8, wherein the at least one connecting element includes connector lugs projecting from the second portion, each connector lug having a corresponding through hole aligned with each other along the connecting axis.

[0123] 10. The connector according to embodiment 9, wherein the connector lugs are spaced apart from each other and configured to receive adapter lugs therebetween protruding from the first portion of the adapter toward the end of the first float, the through-hole or each through-hole of the adapter being formed through the adapter lugs and configured to align with the corresponding through-hole of the connector lug along the connecting axis, such that a coupler can be inserted through the aligned through-holes to couple the connector to the adapter.

[0124] 11. The connector according to any one of embodiments 7 to 10, wherein the coupler includes a pin for coupling the connector to the adapter, such that the connector and the adapter are pivotable relative to each other about the longitudinal axis of the pin.

[0125] 12. The connector according to embodiment 6, wherein the at least one connecting element includes a connector surround, and the at least one through-hole of the connector includes transverse through-holes aligned with each other along a connecting axis extending through the connector surround.

[0126] 13. The connector according to embodiment 12, wherein the connecting axis is substantially parallel to the elongated second float.

[0127] 14. The connector according to embodiment 13, wherein the first portion of the adapter includes an adapter surround projecting from there toward the end of the first float, the connector surround and the adapter surround being configured to mate with each other.

[0128] 15. The connector according to embodiment 14, wherein when mated, the connector surround is configured to receive the adapter surround, wherein the through-hole formed through the adapter or each through-hole is formed through the adapter surround, and is configured to align with the transverse through-hole of the connector surround along the connection axis, such that a coupler can be inserted through the aligned through-hole to couple the connector to the adapter.

[0129] 16. The connector according to any one of embodiments 12 to 15, wherein the coupler includes a pin for coupling the connector to the adapter in order to secure the connector surround to the adapter.

[0130] 17. The connector according to embodiment 7, wherein the at least one connector lug is shaped to receive within a longitudinal channel extending along the side of the second float.

[0131] 18. The connector according to embodiment 17, wherein the at least one through hole defines a connecting axis that is substantially perpendicular to both the elongated first float and the elongated second float.

[0132] 19. The connector according to embodiment 18, wherein the at least one through hole comprises a pair of spaced-apart through holes extending vertically through the at least one connector lug.

[0133] 20. The connector according to embodiment 18 or 19, wherein the through-hole or each of the connector is configured to receive a coupler passing through it for connecting the connector to the side of the second float.

[0134] 21. The connector according to any one of embodiments 18 to 20, wherein the connector is adapted to mate with the adapter within the channel of the second float.

[0135] 22. The connector according to embodiment 21, wherein the coupler or each coupler is configured to extend through the channel of the second float, the adapter, and the connector at least one lug to connect the connector to the side of the second float.

[0136] 23. The connector according to any one of embodiments 17 to 22, wherein the at least one connecting element includes an upper connector lug and a lower connector lug, each having a pair of spaced-apart through holes, the upper connector lug through holes being aligned with a corresponding one of the lower connector lug through holes such that a corresponding coupler can be received through the channel of the second float, the adapter, and the aligned through holes of the upper connector lug and the lower connector lug, in order to connect the connector to the side of the second float.

[0137] 24. The connector according to any one of embodiments 17 to 23, wherein:

[0138] The second portion is adapted to seal the opening of the first float, such that the at least one connector lug protrudes into the interior of the first elongated float; and

[0139] The first portion includes at least one second connector lug that protrudes from the first portion toward the side of the second float, the at least one second connector being adapted to connect with the side of the second float.

[0140] 25. The connector according to embodiment 24, wherein:

[0141] When the first portion seals the opening of the first float, the at least one second connector lug protrudes into the interior of the first float, and the connector lug protrudes toward the side of the second float to connect with the second float; and

[0142] When the second part seals the opening of the first float, the at least one connector lug protrudes into the interior of the first float, and the at least one second connector lug protrudes toward the side of the second float to connect with the second float.

[0143] 26. A connector assembly for interconnecting an end of a first elongated float to a side of a second elongated float, the assembly comprising:

[0144] The connector according to any one of the foregoing embodiments; and

[0145] An adapter, which can be fixed to the side of the second float.

[0146] The connector at least one of its connecting elements is configured to be coupled to the adapter.

[0147] 27. The connector according to embodiment 1, wherein the connector is configured to connect to the side of the second float such that the connection between the connector and the second float is without auxiliary connecting means.

[0148] 28. The connector according to embodiment 1 or 27, wherein the at least one connecting element is adapted to be fixed around at least the lower side of the second float.

[0149] 29. The connector according to embodiment 28, wherein the at least one connecting element includes an arm configured to extend at least partially around the circumference of the second float.

[0150] 30. The connector according to embodiment 29, wherein the arm extends from the end of the first float adjacent to and below the lower side of the second float to the opposite side of the second float.

[0151] 31. The connector according to embodiment 29 or 30, the connector comprising at least two arms configured to extend at least partially around the circumference of the second float.

[0152] 32. The connector according to embodiment 31, wherein the arms are spaced apart from each other in a direction along the length of the second float.

[0153] 33. The connector according to embodiment 32, wherein the connector defines a first connector configured to mate with a similar connector, wherein each spaced-apart arm of the first connector is arranged in an interleaved manner adjacent to a corresponding spaced-apart arm of the second connector, such that when mated, the interleaved arms of the first connector and the second connector at least partially define a passage sized to receive the outer circumference of the second elongated float.

[0154] 34. The connector according to embodiment 33, wherein:

[0155] The arm of the first connector extends from the end adjacent to the first float and below the lower side of the second float to the opposite side of the second float; and

[0156] The arm of the second connector extends from the opposite side of the second float and below the lower side of the second float to the side of the second float adjacent to the end of the first float.

[0157] 35. The connector according to embodiment 29, wherein the arm is configured to mate with a first side of a central coupler that defines a passage for at least partially surrounding the circumference of the second float, wherein a second side of the central coupler is configured to mate with a similar connector such that the connector and the central coupler therebetween extend substantially around the circumference of the second float.

[0158] 36. The connector according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the connector is configured to connect the end of the first elongated float to the side of the second elongated float such that the floats are substantially perpendicular to each other.

[0159] 37. The connector according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the connector is configured to connect the end of the first elongated float to the side of the second elongated float such that the floats are arranged substantially at an angle relative to each other.

[0160] 38. The connector according to embodiment 37, wherein the connecting element includes a protrusion having an arcuate portion at the protruding end facing the second elongated float.

[0161] 39. The connector according to embodiment 38, wherein the arcuate portion forms a plurality of facades, each facade being oriented at a different angle.

[0162] 40. The connector according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the connector is configured to be rotary welded to the first float.

[0163] 41. An end connector for interconnecting an end of a first elongated float having an opening to an end of a second elongated float having an opening, the end connector comprising:

[0164] A first part, the first part being used to seal the opening of the first float; and

[0165] The second part has at least one connecting element that protrudes from the second part toward the end of the second float and is adapted to interconnect with the second float.

[0166] 42. The end connector according to embodiment 41, wherein the at least one connecting element includes at least one hook element adapted to be movably associated with an end of the second float when connected to the second float.

[0167] 43. The end connector according to embodiment 42, wherein the at least one hook element includes at least one hook arm configured to receive a coupler for coupling the end connector relative to the end of the second float.

[0168] 44. The end connector according to embodiment 43, the end connector comprising spaced hook arms oriented relative to each other such that the hook arms face opposite directions.

[0169] 45. The end connector according to embodiment 42, wherein the coupler includes a ring, and the hook arm or each hook arm is oriented such that one arm hooks above the coupler and the other arm hooks below the coupler, so as to facilitate coupling of the end connector relative to the end of the second float.

[0170] 46. ​​An end connector according to any one of embodiments 41 to 45, wherein the end connector is configured to mate with a similar end connector arranged to plug the opening of the second float, thereby interconnecting the corresponding at least one connecting element of each end connector to interconnect the end of the first float to the end of the second float.

[0171] 47. The end connector according to embodiment 46, when attached to 45, wherein the hook arm or each hook arm of the connector and the hook arm or each hook arm of the end connector are arranged adjacent to each other in an interleaved relationship, such that adjacent hook arms are oriented relative to each other and aligned to define a coupling path, thereby allowing the coupler to be received through the coupling path to movably couple the connector relative to each other.

[0172] 48. The end connector according to any one of embodiments 41 to 47, wherein the connection formed via the end connector between the end of the first float and the end of the second float provides at least one degree of freedom to allow relative movement between the first float and the second float.

[0173] 49. The end connector according to any one of embodiments 41 to 48, wherein the end connector is configured to be rotary welded to the first float.

[0174] 50. A modular floating structure formed by two or more elongated floats connected relative to each other:

[0175] One or more connectors according to any one of embodiments 1 to 40; and / or

[0176] One or more end connectors according to any one of embodiments 41 to 49.

[0177] 51. The floating structure according to embodiment 50, wherein the upper end of each float is substantially flat.

[0178] 52. The floating structure according to embodiment 50 or 51, wherein the floating structure comprises a raft.

[0179] 53. The floating structure according to any one of embodiments 50 to 52, wherein the floats are typically arranged on a plane floating on the water body, such that each float and connector is at least partially submerged in the water.

[0180] 54. The floating structure according to any one of embodiments 50 to 53, wherein the floating structure is configured to support solar panels on a body of water.

[0181] 55. The floating structure according to any one of embodiments 50 to 54, wherein the floating structure comprises:

[0182] One or more longitudinal floats oriented in a first direction; and

[0183] One or more lateral floats oriented in a second direction, which is substantially perpendicular to the first direction.

[0184] in:

[0185] At least one end of a transverse float is connected to the side of the longitudinal float via a connector according to any one of embodiments 1 to 40; and / or

[0186] The end of one float is connected to the end of another float via a connector according to any one of embodiments 41 to 49.

[0187] 56. The floating structure according to embodiment 55, the floating structure comprising at least two longitudinal floats, the at least two longitudinal floats being spaced apart from each other in the lateral direction and interconnected with each other via at least two lateral floats.

[0188] 57. The floating structure according to embodiment 56, the floating structure further includes a float that is angled and interconnected with a float arranged in the longitudinal direction and a float arranged in the transverse direction.

[0189] 58. The floating structure according to embodiment 55, the floating structure comprising at least two longitudinal floats fixed adjacent to each other via connectors according to any one of embodiments 1 to 40, wherein a first portion of a first connector fixed to a first longitudinal float is fixed to a first portion of a relatively oriented second connector, the second connector being fixed to a second and adjacent longitudinal float such that the respective adjacent upper ends of the floats together define an entry path.

[0190] 59. A floating entry path comprising two or more floating structures according to embodiment 58, the floating structures being arranged collinearly and interconnected via an arrangement of two or more lateral floats fixed adjacent to each other.

[0191] 60. A method for connecting a first elongated float to a second elongated float having sides, the method comprising:

[0192] The first elongated float is connected to the side of the second elongated float by one or more connectors according to any one of embodiments 1 to 40.

[0193] 61. A method for forming a modular floating structure, the method comprising:

[0194] A first elongated float with an opening and a second elongated float with a side are provided;

[0195] The first elongated float is connected to the side of the second elongated float by one or more connectors according to any one of embodiments 1 to 40; and

[0196] The opening of the first float is sealed by any one or more end connectors according to any one of embodiments 41 to 49.

[0197] 62. The connector according to embodiment 1, wherein the at least one connecting element is configured to be coupled to an adapter, the adapter being fixed to the second float.

[0198] 63. The connector according to embodiment 62, wherein the at least one connecting element includes at least one opening for receiving a coupler to connect the connector to the adapter.

[0199] 64. The connector according to embodiment 63, wherein the at least one opening includes at least one through hole.

[0200] 65. The connector according to embodiment 64, wherein the through-hole or each through-hole of the connector is configured to align with a corresponding through-hole of the adapter, such that a corresponding coupler can be inserted through the aligned through-hole to couple the connector to the adapter.

[0201] 66. The connector according to embodiment 65, wherein:

[0202] The at least one connecting element includes at least one connector lug; and

[0203] The at least one through hole extends through the at least one connector lug.

[0204] 67. The connector according to embodiment 66, the connector comprising spaced-apart connector lugs, each connector lug having at least one through-hole, wherein the at least one through-hole of one connector lug is aligned with a corresponding at least one through-hole of the other connector lugs or each other connector lug, such that the aligned connector lug through-holes are configured to receive a corresponding coupler for coupling the connector to the adapter.

[0205] 68. The connector according to embodiment 67, wherein the connector lug is configured to be received by a corresponding slot of the adapter.

[0206] 69. The connector according to any one of embodiments 66 to 68, wherein when coupled to the adapter, the connector lug or the distal end of each connector lug is configured to abut the second float.

[0207] 70. The connector according to embodiment 69, wherein the connector lug or the distal end of each connector lug is arc-shaped to conform to the tubular portion of the second float.

[0208] 71. The connector according to any one of embodiments 66 to 70, the connector comprising:

[0209] Upper connector lug, the upper connector lug having a vertically extending upper lug through hole; and

[0210] The lower connector lug has a vertically extending lower lug through-hole, each lower lug through-hole being aligned with a corresponding upper lug through-hole to form a pair of aligned connector through-holes.

[0211] Each pair of aligned connector through-holes can be aligned with at least one corresponding through-hole of the adapter, such that a corresponding coupler can be inserted through it to couple the connector to the adapter.

[0212] 72. An adapter adapted to connect with a connector according to any one of embodiments 62 to 71, the adapter being fixed to the second float to interconnect the connector to the second float.

[0213] 73. The adapter according to embodiment 72, the adapter including a collar configured to be fixed around at least the lower side of the second float.

[0214] 74. The adapter according to embodiment 72 or 73, the adapter including at least one transverse frame, the at least one connecting element of the connector being connectable to the at least one transverse frame.

[0215] 75. The adapter according to embodiment 74, when attached to any one of embodiments 64 to 71, wherein the at least one transverse frame has at least one through hole configured to align with a corresponding at least one through hole of the connector, such that a corresponding coupler can be inserted through the aligned through hole to couple the connector to the adapter.

[0216] 76. The adapter according to embodiment 75, wherein the at least one lateral frame comprises:

[0217] The upper portion has a vertically extending upper portion through hole; and

[0218] The lower portion has vertically extending lower portion through holes, each lower portion through hole being aligned with a corresponding upper portion through hole to form a pair of aligned adapter through holes.

[0219] 77. The adapter according to embodiment 76, when attached to embodiment 71, wherein the paired aligned adapter through-holes are aligned with corresponding aligned connector through-holes, such that a corresponding coupler can be inserted through them to couple the connector and the adapter together.

[0220] 78. The adapter according to embodiment 77, wherein the at least one transverse frame includes a pair of slots, each slot being configured to receive one of the connector lugs of the connector for connecting the connector to the adapter.

[0221] 79. The adapter according to any one of embodiments 76 to 78, wherein the upper portion is received below the upper protrusion of the second float, the upper protrusion having a vertically extending protrusion through-hole that is alignable with a corresponding upper portion through-hole of the adapter, such that a corresponding coupler can be inserted through the aligned protrusion and the upper portion through-hole to couple the adapter to the second float.

[0222] 80. The adapter according to embodiment 79, when attached to embodiment 77, wherein the aligned connector through-hole is aligned with:

[0223] Correspondingly aligned adapter through holes; and

[0224] The corresponding through holes of the protrusions,

[0225] This allows the corresponding coupler to be inserted through the aligned through-hole to couple the connector, adapter, and second float together.

[0226] 81. The adapter according to embodiment 79 or 80, wherein the upper portion of the adapter and the upper protrusion of the second float include cooperating positioning elements to facilitate positioning of the adapter relative to the second float.

[0227] 82. The adapter according to embodiment 81, wherein the upper portion includes at least one locating pin, and the upper protrusion of the second float includes at least one locating opening for receiving the respective locating pin, so as to position the adapter relative to the second float prior to interconnection between them.

[0228] 83. The adapter according to any one of embodiments 74 to 82, the adapter comprising opposing transverse frames configured to extend around respective sides of the second float.

[0229] 84. A floating photovoltaic (PV) arrangement for supporting at least one PV module having at least one support region, the arrangement comprising:

[0230] The first slender float; and

[0231] A second elongated float, the second elongated float having an end that interconnects with the side of the first elongated float,

[0232] At least one of the floats includes at least one mounting location for supporting the PV module via the at least one support region of the PV module.

[0233] 85. The arrangement according to embodiment 84, wherein the first float includes a spaced-apart first mounting position and a second mounting position for supporting the PV module at corresponding first support area and second support area of ​​the PV module.

[0234] 86. The arrangement according to embodiment 85, wherein the second float includes a third mounting position for supporting the PV module at a third support region of the PV module.

[0235] 87. The arrangement according to implementation plan 86, wherein:

[0236] The first side of the PV module includes the first support area and the second support area; and

[0237] The second side of the PV module includes the third support area.

[0238] 88. The arrangement according to embodiment 87, wherein the three support regions define the corresponding vertices of the imaginary triangle shape.

[0239] 89. The arrangement according to embodiment 88, wherein the triangle shape is substantially in the form of an equilateral triangle.

[0240] 90. The arrangement according to embodiment 88, wherein the triangle shape is substantially in the form of an isosceles triangle, wherein the first support region and the second support region define the base of the isosceles triangle.

[0241] 91. The arrangement according to any one of embodiments 84 to 90, the arrangement further comprising a corresponding mounting element for interconnecting the at least one support region of the PV module to the at least one mounting location.

[0242] 92. The arrangement according to embodiment 91, when attached to any one of embodiments 87 to 90, includes a first mounting member and a second mounting member for interconnecting the first support region and the second support region of the PV module to the first mounting position and the second mounting position, respectively.

[0243] 93. The arrangement according to embodiment 92, the arrangement further includes a third mounting member for interconnecting the third support region of the PV module to the third mounting location.

[0244] 94. The arrangement according to embodiment 93, wherein each mounting member has substantially the same cross-sectional shape.

[0245] 95. The arrangement according to embodiment 93 or 94, wherein the first mounting member and the second mounting member have a first length, and the third mounting member has a second length, the second length being greater than the first length.

[0246] 96. The arrangement according to any one of embodiments 93 to 95, wherein each mounting component comprises:

[0247] The forward portion, configured to be fixed to a corresponding support area of ​​the PV module; and

[0248] The rear portion is configured to be installed at a corresponding installation location.

[0249] 97. The arrangement according to embodiment 96, wherein the forward portion of each mounting member includes an opening for receiving a corresponding support area of ​​the PV module, each opening having:

[0250] Upper jaws, the upper jaws being arranged at least partially above the frame of the PV module; and

[0251] The lower jaws are arranged to be at least partially located below the PV module.

[0252] 98. According to the arrangement of embodiment 96 or 97, the corresponding rearward portions of the first mounting member and the second mounting member can be respectively mounted to the first mounting position and the second mounting position.

[0253] 99. The arrangement according to any one of embodiments 93 to 98, wherein the mounting member is configured to hold the PV module in an inclined position, thereby raising the second side of the PV module above the first side.

[0254] 100. The arrangement according to any one of embodiments 84 to 99, the arrangement further comprising a lifter fixed to the at least one mounting location, the lifter being operable to lift the PV module at the at least one support region of the PV module.

[0255] 101. The arrangement according to embodiment 100, when attached to any one of embodiments 86 to 99, wherein the lifter includes a third mounting position for supporting the PV module at the third support region of the PV module.

[0256] 102. The arrangement according to embodiment 100 or 101, wherein the lifter is in the form of a third float.

[0257] 103. The arrangement according to embodiment 102, wherein the third float is inverted such that the third mounting position of the third float is coupled to the second float.

[0258] 104. The arrangement according to any one of embodiments 84 to 103, wherein:

[0259] The PV module is substantially rectangular;

[0260] The first float is substantially aligned with the first side of the PV module; and

[0261] The second float is approximately perpendicular to the first float.

[0262] 105. According to the arrangement described in embodiment 104, when attached to embodiment 102 or 103, wherein the third float is parallel to the first float.

[0263] 106. The arrangement according to any one of embodiments 84 to 105, the arrangement further comprising opposing PV modules and opposing first floats, each of which is arranged to mirror the PV module and the first float respectively, wherein the respective sides of the adjacent PV modules are interconnected to the second float.

[0264] 107. The arrangement according to any one of embodiments 84 to 106, the arrangement further comprising a connector for interconnecting an end of the first float to a side of the second float, the connector comprising:

[0265] The first part, the first part being used to seal the opening of the first float; and

[0266] The second part has at least one connecting element that protrudes from the side of the second part toward the second float and is adapted to be connected to the second float.

[0267] 108. A floating photovoltaic support system comprising a plurality of arrangements according to any one of embodiments 84 to 107 arranged in a grid-like configuration.

[0268] 109. A kit for forming a floating photovoltaic support system according to embodiment 108, the kit comprising:

[0269] Multiple floats, the multiple floats being used to support the PV module; and

[0270] Multiple mounting components are provided for interconnecting the PV module to the float.

[0271] 110. The kit according to embodiment 109, the kit further comprising a plurality of connectors for interconnecting the floats.

[0272] 111. A fastening element, the fastening element comprising:

[0273] Shaft member, the shaft member extending along a longitudinal axis; and

[0274] Locking unit, the locking unit comprising:

[0275] A stop portion extends from the shaft along a stop portion transverse axis transverse to the longitudinal axis and along a stop portion latitudinal axis transverse to both the stop portion transverse axis and the longitudinal axis, and has a secondary dimension along the stop portion transverse axis and a primary dimension along the latitudinal axis greater than the secondary dimension; and

[0276] At least one deflectable portion extends from the shaft along a deflectable portion transverse axis parallel to the transverse axis of the stop portion, and is deflectable about a deflection axis parallel to the latitude axis of the stop portion.

[0277] 112. The fastening element according to embodiment 111, wherein the at least one deflectable portion has a primary dimension along the transverse axis of the deflectable portion and a secondary dimension smaller than the primary dimension along the latitudinal axis of the deflectable portion coaxial with the deflection axis.

[0278] 113. The fastening element according to embodiment 112, wherein the major dimension of the deflectable portion is misaligned with the major dimension of the stop portion, and the minor dimension of the deflectable portion is misaligned with the minor dimension of the stop portion.

[0279] 114. The fastening element according to embodiment 112 or 113, wherein the primary dimension of the deflectable portion is aligned with the secondary dimension of the stop portion, and the secondary dimension of the deflectable portion is aligned with the primary dimension of the stop portion.

[0280] 115. The fastening element according to any one of embodiments 112 to 114, wherein the deflectable portion has a reference plane, the reference plane including the lateral axis of the deflectable portion and the latitudinal axis of the deflectable portion, and including the secondary dimension and the primary dimension of the deflectable portion.

[0281] 116. The fastening element according to embodiment 115, wherein the primary dimension of the deflectable portion is the farthest distance between two points extending along the transverse axis of the deflectable portion, and the secondary dimension of the deflectable portion is the farthest distance between two points extending along the latitudinal axis of the deflectable portion.

[0282] 117. The fastening element according to any one of embodiments 112 to 116, wherein the deflectable portion is shaped into an oval shape, the oval shape including a minor dimension of the deflectable portion constituting a short axis of the oval shape and a major dimension of the deflectable portion constituting a long axis of the oval shape.

[0283] 118. The fastening element according to any one of embodiments 111 to 117, wherein the stop portion has a reference plane, the reference plane including the transverse axis and the latitudinal axis and including the secondary dimension and the primary dimension of the stop portion.

[0284] 119. The fastening element according to embodiment 118, wherein the primary dimension of the stop portion is the farthest distance between two points extending along the latitudinal axis of the stop portion, and the secondary dimension of the stop portion is the farthest distance between two points extending along the transverse axis of the stop portion.

[0285] 120. The fastening element according to any one of embodiments 111 to 119, wherein the stop portion is formed in an oval shape, the oval shape including the secondary dimension of the stop portion constituting the short axis of the oval shape and the primary dimension of the stop portion constituting the long axis of the oval shape.

[0286] 121. The fastening element according to any one of embodiments 111 to 120, wherein the stop portion is positioned along the longitudinal axis at an axial distance from the deflectable portion.

[0287] 122. The fastening element according to any one of embodiments 111 to 121, wherein the stop portion is formed with a peripheral wall that extends along the longitudinal axis between the upper and lower surfaces of the stop portion.

[0288] 123. The fastening element according to embodiment 122, wherein the entire upper surface of the stop portion is orthogonal to the longitudinal axis.

[0289] 124. The fastening element according to embodiment 122, wherein a portion of the upper surface of the stop portion includes an inclined surface that slopes toward the lower surface along the longitudinal axis.

[0290] 125. The fastening element according to embodiment 124, when attached to embodiment 118, wherein when viewed from a surface plane parallel to the reference plane of the stop portion, the inclined surface extends about an arc comprising at least 90 degrees on the surface plane.

[0291] 126. The fastening element according to embodiment 125, wherein the inclined surface extends about at least two diameter-opposing arcs on the surface plane.

[0292] 127. The fastening element according to any one of embodiments 124 to 126, wherein the inclined surface is at its highest point along the longitudinal axis when it is closer to the transverse axis of the stop portion than the latitudinal axis of the stop portion.

[0293] 128. The fastening element according to any one of embodiments 111 to 127, wherein the at least one deflectable portion is formed with a peripheral wall extending along the longitudinal axis between the upper and lower surfaces of the deflectable portion.

[0294] 129. The fastening element according to embodiment 128, wherein the at least one deflectable portion includes at least one tab formed on the peripheral wall of the deflectable portion.

[0295] 130. The fastening element according to embodiment 129, wherein the at least one tab has a bottom surface extending from the bottom end of the peripheral wall toward the shaft.

[0296] 131. The fastening element according to embodiment 130, wherein the at least one tab has a bottom surface extending upward from the bottom end of the peripheral wall toward the shaft and the upper surface.

[0297] 132. The fastening element according to any one of embodiments 130 and 131, wherein the bottom surface of the tab is operable to be positioned relative to a deflection reference plane transverse to the longitudinal axis:

[0298] When the deflectable portion deflects about the deflection axis in the deflected state, it is parallel to the deflection reference plane; and

[0299] When the deflectable portion is in the undeflected state, it forms an angle with respect to the deflection reference plane.

[0300] 133. The fastening element according to any one of embodiments 111 to 132, wherein the at least one deflectable portion constitutes a pair of deflectable portions.

[0301] 134. The fastening element according to any one of embodiments 111 to 133, wherein the at least one deflectable portion includes an elastic reinforcing member operable to facilitate the deflection of the deflectable portion.

[0302] 135. The fastening element according to embodiment 134, wherein the elastic reinforcing member includes a recess formed in the at least one deflectable portion extending parallel to the deflection axis.

[0303] 136. The fastening element according to embodiment 135, when attached to any one of embodiments 129 to 132, wherein the recess is positioned between the tab and the shaft.

[0304] 137. The fastening element according to any one of embodiments 111 to 136, wherein the locking unit further includes at least one additional stop portion extending from the shaft member parallel to the lateral axis of the stop portion.

[0305] 138. The fastening element according to embodiment 137, when attached to any one of embodiments 129 to 132, wherein the at least one deflectable portion includes the additional stop portion having a lower surface, and the tab protrudes from the lower surface of the additional stop portion toward the stop portion.

[0306] 139. The fastening element according to embodiment 137 or 138, wherein, at least in the undeflected state, a first distance measured along the transverse axis from the longitudinal axis to the end of the additional stop portion is longer than a second distance measured along the transverse axis from the longitudinal axis to the tab wall.

[0307] 140. The fastening element according to embodiment 137, wherein the at least one additional stop portion is positioned near the lower end of the shaft.

[0308] 141. The fastening element according to embodiment 140, wherein the at least one additional stop portion includes a recess formed in the shaft.

[0309] 142. The fastening element according to any one of embodiments 111 to 141, wherein the locking unit further includes a handle axially spaced from the stop portion and the deflectable portion.

[0310] 143. The fastening element according to embodiment 142, wherein the handle has a primary dimension along the lateral axis and a secondary dimension smaller than the primary dimension along the deflection axis.

[0311] 144. The fastening element according to embodiment 143, wherein the primary dimension of the handle is aligned with the secondary dimension of the stop portion.

[0312] 145. The fastening element according to any one of embodiments 142 to 144, wherein the handle has at least one protrusion formed on its upper surface, the protrusion being operable to allow manual or mechanical gripping of the handle.

[0313] 146. The fastening element according to embodiment 145, wherein the at least one protrusion constitutes two protrusions, and a gap is formed between the two protrusions, the gap having a size compatible with the size of the gripping tool.

[0314] 147. The fastening element according to any one of embodiments 111 to 146, wherein the fastening element has a housing with a cavity formed therein.

[0315] 148. The fastening element according to embodiment 147, wherein the cavity has an elongated dimension extending transversely to the injection molding direction, wherein injection molding material is injected in the injection molding direction for manufacturing the fastening element.

[0316] 149. The fastening element according to embodiment 147 or 148, wherein the shaft includes at least one portion, the at least one portion including at least one peripheral rib formed about the longitudinal axis.

[0317] 150. A fastening arrangement, said fastening arrangement comprising:

[0318] An object having an upper surface, a lower surface, and a hole extending between the upper surface and the lower surface along the longitudinal axis of the object;

[0319] A fastening element, insertable into the hole along the longitudinal axis in a first direction and lockable to the object in a locked state, the fastening element comprising:

[0320] An axial resistance mechanism operable in the locked state to resist axial movement of the fastening element along a second direction opposite to the first direction, at least from the hole along the longitudinal axis; and

[0321] A rotary resistance mechanism operable to resist rotational movement of the fastening element about the longitudinal axis in the hole in the locked state.

[0322] 151. The fastening arrangement according to embodiment 150, wherein the axial resistance mechanism has a major dimension that is not aligned with the major dimension of the rotary resistance mechanism.

[0323] 152. The fastening arrangement according to embodiment 150 or 151, wherein the rotational resistance mechanism is axially spaced from the axial resistance mechanism along the longitudinal axis.

[0324] 153. The fastening arrangement according to embodiment 151 or 152, when attached to embodiment 151, wherein the hole has a primary dimension along the object's transverse axis transverse to the longitudinal axis and a secondary dimension smaller than the primary dimension along the object's latitude axis transverse to both the longitudinal axis and the object's transverse axis.

[0325] 154. The fastening arrangement according to embodiment 151 or any one of embodiments 152 and 153, when attached to embodiment 151, wherein the primary dimension of the axial resistance mechanism extends along the latitudinal axis of the axial resistance mechanism, and the secondary dimension of the axial resistance mechanism extends along the transverse axis of the axial resistance mechanism and is smaller than the primary dimension of the axial resistance mechanism.

[0326] 155. According to the fastening arrangement of embodiment 154, when attached to embodiment 153, the fastening element can be positioned in at least one of the following states:

[0327] In the unlocked state, the main dimension of the axial resistance mechanism is aligned with the main dimension of the hole; and

[0328] In the locked state, the main dimensions of the axial resistance mechanism are not aligned with the main dimensions of the hole.

[0329] 156. The fastening arrangement according to any one of embodiments 151 or 152 to 155, when attached to embodiment 151, wherein the primary dimension of the rotational resistance mechanism extends along the transverse axis of the rotational resistance mechanism, and the secondary dimension of the rotational resistance mechanism extends along the latitudinal axis of the rotational resistance mechanism and is smaller than the primary dimension of the rotational resistance mechanism.

[0330] 157. According to the fastening arrangement of embodiment 156, when attached to embodiment 153, the fastening element can be positioned in at least one of the following states:

[0331] In the unlocked state, the main dimension of the rotary resistance mechanism is misaligned with the main dimension of the hole; and

[0332] In the locked state, the main dimensions of the rotary resistance mechanism are aligned with the main dimensions of the hole.

[0333] 158. The fastening arrangement according to embodiment 156, when attached to embodiment 154, wherein the fastening element comprises:

[0334] A shaft member, which extends parallel to the longitudinal axis at least when inserted into the hole; and

[0335] Locking unit, the locking unit comprising:

[0336] The rotary resistance mechanism includes at least one deflectable portion extending from the shaft parallel to the transverse axis of the rotary resistance mechanism and deflectable about a deflection axis parallel to the latitudinal axis of the rotary resistance mechanism; and

[0337] The axial resistance mechanism includes a stop portion extending from the shaft, and the main dimension of the axial resistance mechanism constitutes the main dimension of the stop portion extending along its axial resistance mechanism latitudinal axis, the main dimension of the stop portion being greater than the secondary dimension of the stop portion extending along its axial resistance mechanism transverse axis.

[0338] 159. The fastening arrangement according to embodiment 158, wherein the main dimension of the rotational resistance mechanism constitutes the main dimension of the deflectable portion, and the secondary dimension of the rotational resistance mechanism constitutes the secondary dimension of the deflectable portion, and the deflectable portion is formed into an oval shape, the oval shape including the secondary dimension of the deflectable portion constituting the short axis of the oval shape and the main dimension of the deflectable portion constituting the long axis of the oval shape.

[0339] 160. The fastening arrangement according to embodiment 158 ​​or 159, wherein the stop portion is shaped into an oval shape, the oval shape including the secondary dimensions of the stop portion constituting the short axis of the oval shape and the primary dimensions of the stop portion constituting the long axis of the oval shape.

[0340] 161. The fastening arrangement according to any one of embodiments 158 to 160, when attached to embodiment 4, wherein the hole is formed in an oval shape, the oval shape including the secondary hole size of the short axis constituting the oval shape and the primary hole size of the long axis constituting the oval shape.

[0341] 162. The fastening arrangement according to any one of embodiments 159 to 161, when attached to embodiment 153, wherein the hole has a hole wall extending parallel to the longitudinal axis, and the deflectable portion can be positioned such that:

[0342] In the unlocked state of the fastening element, when the principal dimension of the deflectable portion is misaligned with the principal dimension of the hole, it deflects upward above the upper surface of the object; and

[0343] In the locked state, when the main dimensions of the deflectable portion are aligned with the main dimensions of the hole, the hole wall can be pressed into place.

[0344] 163. The fastening arrangement according to any one of embodiments 153 and 154 to 162, when attached to embodiment 153, wherein the fastening element rotates from the unlocked state to the locked state about the longitudinal axis within the hole, and the fastening element can be further locked to the object in the locked state.

[0345] 164. The fastening arrangement according to embodiment 163, wherein the rotation is a 90-degree angle.

[0346] 165. The fastening arrangement according to embodiment 163 or 164, wherein the stop portion includes an upper surface, the upper surface including a first portion and a second portion, the first portion being closer to the deflectable portion by a distance such that at least during the rotation the second portion does not contact the lower surface of the object.

[0347] 166. The fastening arrangement according to any one of embodiments 158 to 165, when attached to embodiment 153, wherein the dimensions of the stop portion are adapted to:

[0348] In the unlocked state of the fastening element, when the principal dimension of the stop portion is aligned with the principal dimension of the hole, it is inserted through the hole from the first direction; and

[0349] In the locked state, when the main dimension of the stop portion is positioned to be misaligned with the main dimension of the hole, it engages with the lower surface of the object.

[0350] 167. The fastening arrangement according to any one of embodiments 158 to 166, when attached to embodiment 153, wherein the length of at least one of the primary and secondary dimensions of the stop portion is not greater than the length of at least one of the primary and secondary dimensions of the hole.

[0351] 168. The fastening arrangement according to any one of embodiments 159 to 167, wherein the at least one deflectable portion is formed with a peripheral wall extending along the longitudinal axis between the upper and lower surfaces of the deflectable portion.

[0352] 169. The fastening arrangement according to embodiment 168, wherein each of the deflectable portions includes a tab forming the peripheral wall of the deflectable portion.

[0353] 170. The fastening arrangement according to embodiment 169, when attached to embodiment 153, wherein the length measured along the transverse axis of the deflectable portion between the peripheral walls is not less than the length of at least one of the primary and secondary dimensions of the hole.

[0354] 171. The fastening arrangement according to embodiment 169 or 170, when attached to embodiment 165, wherein the tab is aligned with the second portion of the stop portion along the longitudinal axis.

[0355] 172. The fastening arrangement according to embodiment 171, wherein during the rotation of the fastening element from the unlocked state to the locked state, the tab is not subjected to pressure formed by the contact between the second portion of the stop portion and the lower surface of the object.

[0356] 173. The fastening arrangement according to any one of embodiments 165 to 172, wherein when the object is positionable such that its width dimension extends parallel to the longitudinal axis, the axial distance along the longitudinal axis between the upper end of the peripheral wall of the deflectable portion and the first portion of the upper surface of the stop portion is not less than the width of the object extending between the upper and lower surfaces of the object.

[0357] 174. The fastening arrangement according to any one of embodiments 169 to 173, wherein the at least one tab has a bottom surface extending upward from the bottom end of the peripheral wall toward the shaft and the upper surface.

[0358] 175. The fastening arrangement according to embodiment 175, wherein the bottom surface of the tab is operable to be positioned relative to a deflection reference plane transverse to the longitudinal axis:

[0359] When the deflectable portion deflects about the deflection axis in the deflected state, it is parallel to the deflection reference plane; and

[0360] When the deflectable portion is in the undeflected state, it forms an angle with respect to the deflection reference plane.

[0361] 176. The fastening arrangement according to any one of embodiments 169 to 175, wherein the at least one deflectable portion includes the additional stop portion having a lower surface, and the tab protrudes from the lower surface of the additional stop portion toward the stop portion.

[0362] 177. The fastening arrangement according to embodiment 176, when attached to embodiment 175, wherein the additional stop portion and the tab are deflectable about the deflection axis to a certain extent along the longitudinal axis, the extent being at least the length of the peripheral wall of the tab.

[0363] 178. The fastening arrangement according to any one of embodiments 158 to 178, wherein the length measured parallel to the transverse axis of the stop portion between the largest ends of the additional stop portion is not less than the length of at least one of the primary and secondary dimensions of the hole.

[0364] 179. The fastening arrangement according to embodiment 178, wherein the length measured parallel to the stop transverse axis between the largest ends of the additional stop portion is greater than the length of at least one of the primary and secondary dimensions of the hole.

[0365] 180. The fastening arrangement according to embodiment 179, wherein the fastening element has an upper end that is closer to the deflectable portion than its bottom end, and the deflectable portion is positioned axially away from the upper end along the fastening element, the axial distance having a length for accommodating an additional object.

[0366] 181. The fastening arrangement according to any one of embodiments 158 to 180, wherein the at least one deflectable portion includes an elastic reinforcing member operable to facilitate the deflection of the deflectable portion.

[0367] 182. The fastening arrangement according to embodiment 181, wherein the elastic reinforcing member includes a recess formed in the at least one deflectable portion extending parallel to the deflection axis.

[0368] 183. The fastening arrangement according to embodiment 182, when attached to embodiment 169, wherein the recess is positioned between the tab and the shaft.

[0369] 184. The fastening arrangement according to any one of embodiments 158 to 183, wherein the locking unit further includes a handle axially spaced from the stop portion and the deflectable portion.

[0370] 185. The fastening arrangement according to embodiment 184, wherein the handle has a primary dimension along the lateral axis and a secondary dimension smaller than the primary dimension along the deflection axis.

[0371] 186. The fastening arrangement according to embodiment 185, wherein the primary dimension of the handle is aligned with the secondary dimension of the stop portion.

[0372] 187. The fastening arrangement according to any one of embodiments 184 to 186, wherein the handle has at least one protrusion formed on its upper surface, the protrusion being operable to allow manual or mechanical gripping of the handle.

[0373] 188. The fastening arrangement according to embodiment 187, wherein the at least one protrusion constitutes two protrusions, and a gap is formed between the two protrusions, the gap having a size compatible with the size of the gripping tool.

[0374] 189. The fastening arrangement according to any one of embodiments 150 to 188, wherein the fastening element is operable to lock into the object without screws.

[0375] 190. The fastening arrangement according to any one of embodiments 158 and 159 to 189, when attached to embodiment 158, wherein the fastening element has a housing, the housing being formed with a cavity having an elongated dimension extending transversely to the injection molding direction, wherein injection molding material is injected in the injection molding direction for manufacturing the fastening element.

[0376] 191. The fastening arrangement according to embodiment 190, wherein the shaft includes at least one portion, the at least one portion including at least one peripheral rib formed around the longitudinal axis.

[0377] 192. The fastening arrangement according to embodiment 191, wherein the at least one peripheral rib about the longitudinal axis is positioned at a location where the additional object is operable to apply a shear force to the fastening element.

[0378] 193. A float interconnection arrangement for connecting a first float to a second float via a connector, the first float having an upper surface, a lower surface, and a first hole extending along a longitudinal axis between the upper surface and the lower surface, the connector having a second hole operable to interconnect with the first float, the float interconnection arrangement comprising:

[0379] The first float;

[0380] A fastening element, which can be inserted into at least the first hole and the second hole in a first direction along the longitudinal axis and can be locked in the first float and the second float in a locked state, the fastening element comprising:

[0381] An axial resistance mechanism operable in the locked state to resist axial movement of the fastening element along a second direction opposite to the first direction, at least from the first hole along the longitudinal axis; and

[0382] A rotational resistance mechanism operable to resist rotational movement of the fastening element about the longitudinal axis in the first hole in the locked state.

[0383] 194. The float interconnection arrangement according to embodiment 193, wherein the axial resistance mechanism has a major dimension that is not aligned with the major dimension of the rotary resistance mechanism.

[0384] 195. The float interconnection arrangement according to embodiment 193 or 194, wherein the rotational resistance mechanism is axially spaced from the axial resistance mechanism along the longitudinal axis.

[0385] 196. The float interconnection arrangement according to embodiment 194 or 195, when attached to embodiment 194, wherein the first hole has a primary dimension along the object's transverse axis transverse to the longitudinal axis and a secondary dimension smaller than the primary dimension along the object's latitude axis transverse to both the longitudinal axis and the object's transverse axis.

[0386] 197. According to embodiment 194 or any one of embodiments 195 and 196, when attached to embodiment 194, the primary dimension of the axial resistance mechanism extends along the latitudinal axis of the axial resistance mechanism, and the secondary dimension of the axial resistance mechanism extends along the transverse axis of the axial resistance mechanism and is smaller than the primary dimension of the axial resistance mechanism.

[0387] 198. According to the float interconnection arrangement of embodiment 197, when attached to embodiment 196, the fastening element can be positioned in at least one of the following states:

[0388] In the unlocked state, the main dimension of the axial resistance mechanism is aligned with the main dimension of the first hole; and

[0389] In the locked state, the main dimensions of the axial resistance mechanism are not aligned with the main dimensions of the first hole.

[0390] 199. According to embodiment 194 or any one of embodiments 195 to 198, when attached to embodiment 194, the primary dimension of the rotating resistance mechanism extends along the transverse axis of the rotating resistance mechanism, and the secondary dimension of the rotating resistance mechanism extends along the latitudinal axis of the rotating resistance mechanism and is smaller than the primary dimension of the rotating resistance mechanism.

[0391] 200. According to the float interconnection arrangement of embodiment 199, when attached to embodiment 196, the fastening element can be positioned in at least one of the following states:

[0392] In the unlocked state, the main dimension of the rotary resistance mechanism is misaligned with the main dimension of the first hole; and

[0393] In the locked state, the main dimensions of the rotary resistance mechanism are aligned with the main dimensions of the first hole.

[0394] 201. The float interconnection arrangement according to embodiment 199, when attached to embodiment 197, wherein the fastening element comprises:

[0395] A shaft member, which extends parallel to the longitudinal axis at least when inserted into the first hole; and

[0396] Locking unit, the locking unit comprising:

[0397] The rotary resistance mechanism includes at least one deflectable portion extending from the shaft parallel to the transverse axis of the rotary resistance mechanism and deflectable about a deflection axis parallel to the latitudinal axis of the rotary resistance mechanism; and

[0398] The axial resistance mechanism includes a stop portion extending from the shaft, and the main dimension of the axial resistance mechanism constitutes the main dimension of the stop portion extending along its axial resistance mechanism latitudinal axis, the main dimension of the stop portion being greater than the secondary dimension of the stop portion extending along its axial resistance mechanism transverse axis.

[0399] 202. The float interconnection arrangement according to embodiment 201, wherein the main dimension of the rotational resistance mechanism constitutes the main dimension of the deflectable portion, and the secondary dimension of the rotational resistance mechanism constitutes the secondary dimension of the deflectable portion, and the deflectable portion is formed into an oval shape, the oval shape including the secondary dimension of the deflectable portion constituting the short axis of the oval shape and the main dimension of the deflectable portion constituting the long axis of the oval shape.

[0400] 203. The float interconnection arrangement according to embodiment 201 or 202, wherein the stop portion is formed in an oval shape, the oval shape including the secondary dimension of the stop portion constituting the short axis of the oval shape and the primary dimension of the stop portion constituting the long axis of the oval shape.

[0401] 204. The float interconnection arrangement according to any one of embodiments 201 to 203, when attached to embodiment 4, wherein the first hole is formed in an oval shape, the oval shape including the secondary dimension of the first hole of the short axis constituting the oval shape and the primary dimension of the first hole of the long axis constituting the oval shape.

[0402] 205. The float interconnection arrangement according to any one of embodiments 202 to 204, when attached to embodiment 196, wherein the first hole has a first hole wall extending parallel to the longitudinal axis, and the deflectable portion can be positioned such that:

[0403] In the unlocked state of the fastening element, when the principal dimension of the deflectable portion is misaligned with the principal dimension of the first hole, it deflects upward above the upper surface of the object; and

[0404] In the locked state, when the main dimensions of the deflectable portion are aligned with the main dimensions of the first hole, the first hole wall can be pressed into place.

[0405] 206. The float interconnection arrangement according to any one of embodiments 196 and 197 to 205, when attached to embodiment 196, wherein the fastening element rotates from the unlocked state to the locked state about the longitudinal axis within the first hole, the fastening element being further lockable to the object in the locked state.

[0406] 207. The float interconnection arrangement according to embodiment 206, wherein the rotation is a 90-degree angle.

[0407] 208. The float interconnection arrangement according to embodiment 206 or 207, wherein the stop portion includes an upper surface, the upper surface including a first portion and a second portion, the first portion being closer to the deflectable portion by a distance such that at least during the rotation the second portion does not contact the lower surface of the object.

[0408] 209. The float interconnection arrangement according to any one of embodiments 201 to 208, when attached to embodiment 196, wherein the dimensions of the stop portion are adapted to:

[0409] In the unlocked state of the fastening element, when the principal dimension of the stop portion is aligned with the principal dimension of the first hole, it is inserted through the first hole from the first direction; and

[0410] In the locked state, when the main dimension of the stop portion is positioned to be misaligned with the main dimension of the first hole, it engages with the lower surface of the object.

[0411] 210. According to any one of embodiments 201 to 209, when attached to embodiment 196, the length of at least one of the primary and secondary dimensions of the stop portion is not greater than the length of at least one of the primary and secondary dimensions of the first hole.

[0412] 211. The float interconnection arrangement according to any one of embodiments 202 to 210, wherein the at least one deflectable portion is formed with a peripheral wall extending along the longitudinal axis between the upper and lower surfaces of the deflectable portion.

[0413] 212. The float interconnection arrangement according to embodiment 211, wherein each of the deflectable portions includes a tab formed on the peripheral wall of the deflectable portion.

[0414] 213. The float interconnection arrangement according to embodiment 212, when attached to embodiment 196, wherein the length measured between the peripheral walls along the transverse axis of the deflectable portion is not less than the length of at least one of the primary and secondary dimensions of the first hole.

[0415] 214. According to the float interconnection arrangement of embodiment 212 or 213, when attached to embodiment 208, wherein the tab is aligned with the second portion of the stop portion along the longitudinal axis.

[0416] 215. The float interconnection arrangement according to embodiment 214, wherein during the rotation of the fastening element from the unlocked state to the locked state, the tab is not subjected to pressure formed by the contact between the second portion of the stop portion and the lower surface of the object.

[0417] 216. The float interconnection arrangement according to any one of embodiments 208 to 215, wherein when the object is positionable such that its width dimension extends parallel to the longitudinal axis, the axial distance along the longitudinal axis between the upper end of the peripheral wall of the deflectable portion and the first portion of the upper surface of the stop portion is not less than the width of the object extending between the upper and lower surfaces of the object.

[0418] 217. The float interconnection arrangement according to any one of embodiments 212 to 216, wherein the at least one tab has a bottom surface extending upward from the bottom end of the peripheral wall toward the shaft and the upper surface.

[0419] 218. The float interconnection arrangement according to embodiment 217, wherein the bottom surface of the tab is operable to be positioned relative to a deflection reference plane transverse to the longitudinal axis:

[0420] When the deflectable portion deflects about the deflection axis in the deflected state, it is parallel to the deflection reference plane; and

[0421] When the deflectable portion is in the undeflected state, it forms an angle with respect to the deflection reference plane.

[0422] 219. The float interconnection arrangement according to any one of embodiments 212 to 218, wherein the at least one deflectable portion includes the additional stop portion having a lower surface, and the tab protrudes from the lower surface of the additional stop portion toward the stop portion.

[0423] 220. The float interconnection arrangement according to embodiment 219, when attached to embodiment 218, wherein the additional stop portion and the tab are deflectable about the deflection axis to a certain extent along the longitudinal axis, the extent being at least the length of the peripheral wall of the tab.

[0424] 221. The float interconnection arrangement according to any one of embodiments 201 to 221, wherein the length measured parallel to the transverse axis of the stop portion between the largest ends of the additional stop portion is not less than the length of at least one of the primary and secondary dimensions of the first hole.

[0425] 222. The float interconnection arrangement according to embodiment 221, wherein the length measured parallel to the stop transverse axis between the largest ends of the additional stop portions is greater than the length of at least one of the primary and secondary dimensions of the first hole.

[0426] 223. The float interconnection arrangement according to embodiment 222, wherein the fastening element has an upper end that is closer to the deflectable portion than its bottom end, and the deflectable portion is positioned axially away from the upper end along the fastening element by an axial distance having a length for accommodating an additional object.

[0427] 224. The float interconnection arrangement according to any one of embodiments 201 to 223, wherein the at least one deflectable portion includes an elastic enhancer operable to facilitate the deflection of the deflectable portion.

[0428] 225. The float interconnection arrangement according to embodiment 224, wherein the elastic enhancer includes a recess formed in the at least one deflectable portion extending parallel to the deflection axis.

[0429] 226. The float interconnection arrangement according to embodiment 225, when attached to embodiment 212, wherein the recess is positioned between the tab and the shaft.

[0430] 227. The float interconnection arrangement according to any one of embodiments 201 to 226, wherein the locking unit further includes a handle axially spaced from the stop portion and the deflectable portion.

[0431] 228. The float interconnection arrangement according to embodiment 227, wherein the handle has a major dimension along the lateral axis and a minor dimension smaller than the major dimension along the deflection axis.

[0432] 229. The float interconnection arrangement according to embodiment 228, wherein the primary dimension of the handle is aligned with the secondary dimension of the stop portion.

[0433] 230. The float interconnection arrangement according to any one of embodiments 227 to 229, wherein the handle has at least one protrusion formed on its upper surface, the protrusion being operable to allow manual or mechanical gripping of the handle.

[0434] 231. The float interconnection arrangement according to embodiment 230, wherein the at least one protrusion constitutes two protrusions, and a gap is formed between the two protrusions, the gap having a size compatible with the size of the gripping tool.

[0435] 232. The float interconnection arrangement according to any one of embodiments 193 to 231, wherein the fastening element is operable to be locked into the object without screws.

[0436] 233. The float interconnection arrangement according to any one of embodiments 201 and 202 to 232, when attached to embodiment 201, wherein the fastening element has a housing, the housing being formed with a cavity having an elongated dimension extending transversely to the injection molding direction, wherein injection molding material is injected in the injection molding direction for manufacturing the fastening element.

[0437] 234. The float interconnection arrangement according to embodiment 233, wherein the shaft includes at least one portion, the at least one portion including at least one peripheral rib formed about the longitudinal axis.

[0438] 235. The float interconnection arrangement according to embodiment 234, wherein the at least one peripheral rib about the longitudinal axis is disposed at a location where the additional object is operable to apply a shear force to the fastening element.

[0439] 236. A floating structure, the floating structure comprising:

[0440] Fastening arrangement according to any one of embodiments 150 to 192;

[0441] The second float; and

[0442] The connector;

[0443] A connecting mechanism operable to connect the connector to the second float.

[0444] 237. The floating structure according to embodiment 236, wherein the connecting mechanism includes a connector connecting portion formed on the connector, the connector connecting portion being connected to a corresponding second float connecting portion formed on the second float.

[0445] 238. The floating structure according to embodiment 237, wherein the connection is established between the connector connection portion and the corresponding second float connection portion along an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis. Attached Figure Description

[0446] To better understand the subject matter disclosed herein and to illustrate how it can be implemented in practice, the implementation scheme will now be described by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0447] Figure 1A This is a top perspective view of the float before it is sealed by the connector, according to an embodiment of the subject matter disclosed herein;

[0448] Figure 1B yes Figure 1A End view of the float;

[0449] Figure 2 This is a top perspective view of an exemplary floating structure formed by elongated floats interconnected via connectors, according to an embodiment of the subject matter disclosed herein;

[0450] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A close-up of the floating structure, showing the end of the first float interconnected to the side of the second float via a connector according to an embodiment of the subject matter disclosed herein;

[0451] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A close-up of the interconnection between the first and second floats;

[0452] Figure 5A and Figure 5B They are Figure 3 Front and rear perspective views of the connector;

[0453] Figure 6A and Figure 6B They are Figure 3 The front and rear perspective views of the adapter shown are provided, and the adapter is configured to be coupled to... Figure 5A The connector is fixed to the side of the second float;

[0454] Figure 7A It is shown Figure 5A connector and Figure 6A Side perspective view of the adapter coupling;

[0455] Figure 7B yes Figure 7A Relative side perspective;

[0456] Figure 8 It is coupled to the adapter. Figure 5A Rear perspective view of the connector;

[0457] Figure 9 It is coupled to something like Figure 6A Rear perspective view of another connector implementation of the adapter;

[0458] Figure 10A This is a rear perspective view of another connector embodiment of this disclosure;

[0459] Figure 10B It shows the end sealed to the slender float. Figure 10A A partially exploded view of the connectors and the adapters to which they are coupled;

[0460] Figure 11 This is a front perspective view of another connector implementation that interconnects to the sides of the elongated float;

[0461] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 Side perspective view of the connector;

[0462] Figure 13A yes Figure 11 connectors and Figure 11 The adapter shown is a partially exploded view;

[0463] Figure 13B They are coupled to each other by being fixed together via slender couplers. Figure 13A Rear perspective view of the connectors and adapters;

[0464] Figure 14A This is a side perspective view of another connector implementation coupled to an associated adapter;

[0465] Figure 14B This is a side view of yet another connector implementation coupled to an associated adapter;

[0466] Figure 15 This is a front perspective view of another connector implementation scheme fixed to a slender float;

[0467] Figure 16A and Figure 16B They are Figure 15 Side and front perspective views of the connector;

[0468] Figure 17A This is a front perspective view of yet another connector embodiment according to this disclosure;

[0469] Figure 17B It shows the connection to the slender float. Figure 17A End view of the connector;

[0470] Figure 18A It shows Figure 17A The two connectors are placed together for mating;

[0471] Figure 18B It shows that they cooperate with each other. Figure 18A Two connectors;

[0472] Figure 19 It is fixed to the slender float. Figure 18B Top perspective view of the two connectors;

[0473] Figure 20A This is a disassembled view of yet another connector implementation, showing two opposing connectors and a center coupler;

[0474] Figure 20B yes Figure 20A The end view shows connectors and couplers arranged around a slender float;

[0475] Figure 21A This is a disassembled view of yet another connector implementation, showing two opposing connectors and another center coupler;

[0476] Figure 21B The connector is not shown. Figure 21A Assembly view;

[0477] Figure 21C It shows the connector. Figure 21A Assembly view;

[0478] Figure 21D yes Figure 21C Partial disassembly view;

[0479] Figure 22A This is an assembly view of yet another connector implementation scheme;

[0480] Figure 22B yes Figure 22A An assembly view of the connectors and couplers;

[0481] Figure 23A This is yet another assembly view of connectors and couplers;

[0482] Figure 23B yes Figure 23A Another view of the connectors and couplers;

[0483] Figure 23C yes Figure 23AAnother view of the connectors and couplers;

[0484] Figure 24 This is a front perspective view of an elongated float sealed with an end connector according to the subject matter disclosed herein;

[0485] Figure 25A and Figure 25B They are Figure 24 Front and rear perspective views of the end connector;

[0486] Figure 26 This is a schematic top view of an exemplary floating structure for carrying solar panels according to an embodiment of the subject matter disclosed herein;

[0487] Figure 27 This is a schematic top view of another exemplary floating structure for carrying solar panels, based on an embodiment of the subject matter disclosed herein;

[0488] Figure 28A This is a schematic top view of an exemplary floating structure configured as an entry path according to an embodiment of the subject matter disclosed herein;

[0489] Figure 28B yes Figure 28A A side view of the floating structure;

[0490] Figure 29 It is to utilize Figure 28A A schematic top view of an exemplary floating entry path structure;

[0491] Figure 30 This is a schematic top view of an exemplary floating structure for carrying solar panels configured to tilt together, according to an embodiment of the subject matter disclosed herein;

[0492] Figure 31A This is a schematic top view of an exemplary floating structure utilizing an inverted float according to an embodiment of the subject matter disclosed herein;

[0493] Figure 31B It is equipped with solar panels. Figure 31A A schematic top view of the floating structure;

[0494] Figure 32 This is a schematic top view of an exemplary floating structure for carrying solar panels, according to a further embodiment of the subject matter disclosed herein;

[0495] Figure 33 This is a schematic top view of an exemplary floating structure for carrying solar panels, which is a further embodiment of the subject matter disclosed herein;

[0496] Figure 34 This is a schematic top view of an exemplary floating structure for carrying solar panels, according to a further embodiment of the subject matter disclosed herein;

[0497] Figure 35A This is a partially exploded perspective view of another connector implementation for coupling to an adapter that can be secured to a float;

[0498] Figure 35B It is in the assembly state. Figure 35A Rear perspective view of the connectors, adapters, and floats;

[0499] Figure 36A Before they are coupled together Figure 35A Front perspective view of the connector and adapter;

[0500] Figure 36B They are coupled to each other. Figure 36A Front perspective view of the connector and adapter;

[0501] Figure 37A This is a top perspective view of an implementation scheme for a floating photovoltaic (PV) arrangement that supports one or more PV modules;

[0502] Figure 37B It supports two PV modules. Figure 37A Top perspective view of the layout;

[0503] Figure 38A yes Figure 37B A close-up front perspective view of the PV module, in which slender floats support the PV module at two support areas of the PV module;

[0504] Figure 38B yes Figure 37B Front view of the layout;

[0505] Figure 39 yes Figure 37B A top view of the layout;

[0506] Figure 40 This is a side perspective view of the mounting hardware used to interconnect the sides of a PV panel to an elongated float.

[0507] Figure 41A It interconnects PV panels to a slender float. Figure 38A A close-up top side perspective view of the mounting components;

[0508] Figure 41B yes Figure 41A A close-up bottom perspective view;

[0509] Figure 42A yes Figure 38BA close-up front view of the arrangement shows the lifter supporting the arrangement of two PV panels via corresponding mounting components;

[0510] Figure 42B yes Figure 42A A close-up top perspective view, omitting the PV panel;

[0511] Figure 43 yes Figure 42B A close-up front perspective view, omitting two mounting components;

[0512] Figure 44 This is a schematic front perspective view of a fastening arrangement utilizing fastening elements, a further embodiment of the subject matter disclosed herein;

[0513] Figure 45 This is a schematic front perspective view of a fastening element according to an embodiment of the subject matter disclosed herein;

[0514] Figure 46A , Figure 46B and Figure 46C They are Figure 45 Schematic front view, front perspective view and side view of the fastening element;

[0515] Figure 46D It is along Figure 46C A partial sectional view taken by line AA in the middle;

[0516] Figure 46E and Figure 46F They are Figure 45 Schematic bottom and side perspective views of the fastening components;

[0517] Figure 47A , Figure 47B and Figure 47C This illustrates the first assembly stage of fastening the fastening elements into the fastening arrangement;

[0518] Figure 48A and Figure 48B This illustrates the second assembly stage where fastening elements are secured in the fastening arrangement;

[0519] Figure 49A and Figure 49B This illustrates the third assembly stage, in which fastening elements are secured to the fastening arrangement;

[0520] Figure 50A , Figure 50B and Figure 50C The fourth assembly stage, in which fastening elements are secured in the fastening arrangement, is shown.

[0521] Figure 51 This is a schematic front perspective view of a fastening element according to a further embodiment of the subject matter disclosed herein;

[0522] Figure 52 This is a schematic front perspective view of a fastening element according to a further embodiment of the subject matter disclosed herein;

[0523] Figure 53 This is a schematic front perspective view of a fastening arrangement for a further embodiment of the subject matter disclosed herein;

[0524] Figures 54A to 54G This is a schematic perspective view of the float interconnection arrangement according to the embodiments of the subject matter disclosed herein; and

[0525] Figure 55 This is a schematic top perspective view of a connector according to an embodiment of the subject matter disclosed herein; Detailed Implementation

[0526] According to one aspect, this specification discloses a connector for interconnecting elongated floats relative to each other. Specifically, this document discloses a connector embodiment for interconnecting the end of a first elongated float to the side of a second elongated float. This document also discloses a connector embodiment for interconnecting the end of a first float to the end of a second float. As will be discussed, at least one disclosed connector embodiment allows parallel and adjacent elongated floats to interconnect with each other. Therefore, the connector embodiments disclosed herein enable elongated floats to interconnect relative to each other in various configurations and orientations, thereby facilitating the easy formation of different floating structures.

[0527] While this specification may be specifically referenced for floating structures and platforms used in FPV applications, it will be understood that the connector implementations disclosed herein can be used to form a variety of other types of floating structures, including floating platforms, rafts, access channels, etc.

[0528] Figure 1A and Figure 1BAn exemplary float 2 is shown prior to the use of a connector seal according to this disclosure. The float 2 may be extruded and is generally in the form of a rigid, elongated, and hollow tubular structure configured to float in water. The float 2 may be formed of plastic and is depicted having opposing open ends 4 that have not yet been fluid-sealed by a corresponding connector. A hollow space 6 within the float 2 extends along its length and has a generally semi-oval cross-sectional shape defined by a flat upper portion 8 and a curved lower portion 10, but the float may be formed in any suitable shape. The flat upper portion 8 defines an upper surface on which a person can walk. In use, at least the upper portion 8 is configured to float above the water surface, allowing a person to walk along the upper portion 8 of the float. The curved lower portion 10 extends downward from the flat upper portion 8 and is configured to be at least partially submerged in water. The upper portion 8 of float 2 extends slightly beyond the diameter or width of the curved lower portion 10 to define a laterally opposed and longitudinally extending overhanging protrusion 12, which increases the total width of the upper surface that can be used for walking on it.

[0529] The float 2 also includes longitudinally extending hollow channels 14 that project laterally from opposite sides of the curved lower portion. Each channel 14 typically has a rectangular cross-sectional shape and helps to hold and stabilize the float 2 in an upright orientation when floating in water. Laterally projecting and longitudinally extending flanges 16 are located above the hollow channels 14 and below the overhanging protrusions 12 on each side of the float 2. As will be discussed, one or more of these structural features on each lateral side of the float 2 (i.e., arms 12, flanges 16, and / or hollow channels 14) may be used to facilitate interconnection between the floats 2.

[0530] Figure 2 An exemplary floating structure 18 is depicted, illustrating how elongated floats 2 can be interconnected with each other via connectors according to this disclosure. Each float 2 has a reference... Figure 1A and Figure 1B The type shown and described involves the opposite open ends 4 of each float 2 being sealed using a corresponding connector 20 (e.g., via spin welding). Of course, other float types and corresponding connector configurations can be used. Figure 2 The floating structure 18 includes longitudinally extending slender floats 2 L and multiple horizontally extending floats spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction 2 T As will be discussed, in some implementations, each transverse float has 2 T End 4 is interconnected to longitudinal float 2 via corresponding connector 20 L One side of it.

[0531] Will understand, in Figure 2 In the middle, horizontal float 2T and longitudinal float 2 L They differ only in length; it can be seen that the depicted longitudinal float 2 L Compared to the depicted horizontal float 2 T Long. However, Figure 2 The floating structure 18 is merely an exemplary structure to help illustrate how the floats 2 can be interconnected via the connector 20 disclosed herein; the floating structure can of course be configured differently, in which different, similar and / or identical floats are arranged in any number of different configurations.

[0532] It is further noted that the float 2 can be formed in any suitable shape, for example, with or without a flat upper portion 8. Furthermore, in some embodiments, any of the protrusion 12, channel 14, and flange 16 can be formed in any suitable shape or omitted.

[0533] Also refer to Figure 3 2 for each horizontal float T The first end 4a is "free" because it is not shown to be fixed to anything. Of course, these ends 4a may alternatively be fixed, tethered, or otherwise anchored to another structure, such as a fixed structure (e.g., via ropes or cables), to maintain the position of the floating structure 18 relative to the body of water on which it floats. Each transverse float 4 T The opposite second ends 4b are interconnected to the longitudinal float 2 L The transverse sides. In this way, the connector 20 according to this disclosure can be considered to achieve the interconnection of elongated floats 2 that are oriented perpendicularly to each other. Figure 4 A close-up of this interconnect is shown, in which connector 20 is shown as being inserted into lateral float 2. T The second end 4b is connected to the longitudinal float 2 via adapter 22. L .

[0534] Note that in some embodiments, connector 20 is considered to include adapter 22, which is configured to facilitate connector 20 connection to the side or end of another float 2. In some embodiments, adapter 22 may be omitted.

[0535] The connector embodiments disclosed herein are configured to interconnect an end of a first float (e.g., one end of a lateral float) to a side of a second float (e.g., a side of a longitudinal float). The connector includes a first portion for sealing an opening that defines an open end of the first float. The connector also includes a second portion having at least one connecting element that facilitates interconnection between the first and second floats. The at least one connecting element protrudes from the second portion and toward the side of the second float, and achieves connection with the second float. In this way, the connector functions similarly to an end cap for sealing the open end of the first float, while also providing a connection means by which the connector can be secured relative to a second float oriented substantially perpendicular to the first float.

[0536] refer to Figure 5A and Figure 5B The depicted connector 20 can be referred to as and is considered as an end cap for closing or sealing the open end 4 of the float 2. In the depicted embodiment, the connector 20 includes a generally planar and semi-oval faceplate or cover 24 having a front 26 and a rear 28, the rear having a periphery 30 for sealingly closing the open end 4 of the float 2. The connector 20 also includes a first portion 32 having a semi-oval skirt 34 projecting rearward from the rear 28 of the cover 24, the skirt 34 being adapted to be tightly inserted into Figure 1B The corresponding semi-oval hollow opening end 4 of the float 2. The periphery 30 of the cover 24 extends slightly beyond the outer periphery or skirt 34 and is configured to abut against the upper portion 8 and the curved lower portion 10 at the opening end 4 of the float 2 for its fluid seal (e.g., via rotational welding). In this way, the rearwardly extending skirt 34 and rear end 28 of the flat cover 24 can be considered to define the first portion 32 of the connector 20 for sealing the opening end 4 of the float 2.

[0537] The connector 20 also includes a second portion 36 having at least one connecting element via which the connector 20 can be interconnected to the side of another float 2. In the depicted embodiment, at least one connecting element includes two connector lugs 38 projecting forward from the front 26 of the flat cover 24 of the connector 20. In other words, the lugs 38 are away from the first float sealed by the connector 20 and project toward the second float to which the first float is to be connected. The two lugs 38 may be identical or different and are spaced apart from each other, each lug having a through hole 40 that aligns along the connecting axis with the through hole 40 of the other lug 38, such that a coupler 42 (such as a pin or bolt) can be inserted through the aligned through hole 40. As will be discussed, the connector lugs 38 enable the connector 20 to be coupled to a corresponding adapter 22, which is secured to the second float (e.g., Figure 2 Longitudinal float 2L (The side of)

[0538] Figure 6A and Figure 6B An adapter 22 is shown, via which the connector 20 can be coupled to interconnect the end 4 of the first float to the side of the second float. First, the adapter 22 includes a pair of spaced-apart adapter lugs 44, which are similar to the connector lugs 38 of the connector 20. Each adapter lug 44 also includes a through-hole 46, with corresponding through-holes 46 aligned with each other. See also... Figure 7A and Figure 7B Connector lug 38 and adapter lug 44 are placed together such that corresponding through holes 40, 46 are aligned along the connection axis, so that a coupler (such as pin 42) can be inserted through the four aligned through holes 40, 46 to couple connector 20 to adapter 22.

[0539] In the depicted configuration, connector lugs 38 and adapter lugs 44 are mated or arranged in an interleaved relationship, with one adapter lug 44 receiving in the space between a pair of connector lugs 38, and the other adapter lug 44 receiving against a side of one of the connector lugs 38. This connection provides one degree of freedom of movement about the connecting axis; in other words, connector 20 and adapter 22 can pivot relative to each other about coupling pin 42, thereby allowing the first float 2... T Second float 2 L The corresponding relative movement between them. This facilitates the interconnection of floats 2. T 2 L They move relative to each other in response to the motion of the waves that float on them.

[0540] Adapter 22 also includes a rearwardly extending connector portion 48 that extends rearward in a direction opposite to the adapter lug 44. Connector portion 48 is adapted to allow adapter 22 to be secured to a lateral side of float 2. (Reference) Figure 6A , Figure 6B and Figure 8 The connector portion 48 is configured to allow the adapter 22 to be secured to... Figure 1A and Figure 1BThe feature portion of the lateral side of the float 2 is depicted in the figure. The connector portion 48 includes an upper flange 50 configured to engage above the overhanging protrusion 12 of the float 2. The upper flange 50 has a pair of spaced-apart openings 52 configured to receive corresponding pins 54 that can be inserted through corresponding openings (not shown) formed in the overhanging protrusion 12 of the float 2. The connector portion 48 of the adapter 22 also includes a rectangular protrusion 56 configured to insert into the space between the overhanging protrusion 12 and the underlying hollow channel 14. The vertically extending wall 57 of the rectangular protrusion 56 is configured with corresponding and aligned slits 58 configured to receive the laterally projecting flange 16 of the float 2, as shown in the figure. Figure 8 As shown. The lower end of the connector portion 48 includes a rearwardly extending shelf-like protrusion 60 configured to engage against the underside of the hollow channel 14 of the float 2. The shelf 60 also has a pair of spaced-apart openings 62 configured to receive corresponding pins 54 that can be inserted through corresponding openings (not shown) formed in the hollow channel 14 of the float 2.

[0541] In use, the upper flange 50 and the lower shelf 60 are used to "clamp" around the overhanging protrusion 12 and the hollow channel 14 of the float 2, respectively, and can be secured to the overhanging protrusion and the hollow channel via a coupling pin 54, which can be inserted through the adapter 22 and the lateral side features 12, 14, 16 of the float 2. Simultaneously, the rectangular protrusion 56 of the adapter 22 is inserted into the lateral side of the float 2 between the overhanging protrusion 12 and the lower hollow channel 14. It will be understood that the adapter 22 can be positioned and subsequently secured to the second float almost anywhere along the length of either side, thereby allowing the end of the first float to interconnect with the side of the second float at several different locations along the second float.

[0542] Figure 9 A variation of the adapter described above is shown, wherein the upper wall 64 and lower wall 66 of the rectangular portion also have a pair of spaced-apart openings, allowing a pair of coupling pins or bolts 54 to be inserted vertically downward through the upper flange 50 of the adapter 22, the overhanging protrusion 12 of the float 2, the rectangular portion 56 of the adapter 22, the hollow channel 14 of the float 2, and finally through the lower shelf 60, in order to secure the adapter 22 to the lateral side of the second float 2. As will be discussed, Figure 9 The connector shown has a slightly different first portion for sealing the end of the first float.

[0543] Figure 10A and Figure 10BAnother connector embodiment 120 is shown, which includes a first portion for sealing the open end of a first float, and a second portion having a connecting element projecting toward a side of a second float and adapted to connect with that side. The first portion 132 includes a rearwardly extending semi-oval skirt 134, the forward end of which is closed by a wall or cover 124. However, instead of being inserted into the open end 4 of the first float, the skirt 134 is sized such that its rim 130 directly abuts against... Figure 1B The flat upper portion 8 and the curved lower portion 10 of the float 2 are joined and secured to the exposed edge of the open end 4. In other words, the skirt 134 is directly sealed to the exposed edge of the float at the open end 4 of the float 2 (e.g., via rotary welding), rather than being inserted into the open end 4 of the float 2, and the cover 124 closes the open end 4 of the float 2. Note that Figure 9 The connector 120' includes a similar skirt 134' closed by a wall or cover 124', wherein the skirt 134' is configured to seal directly against the float 2 rather than being inserted into its open end 4.

[0544] Return to reference Figure 10A and Figure 10B The connector 120 also includes a connector element in the form of a connector surround 168, which is depicted as a generally open and square wall projecting forward from the semi-oval cover 124 of the connector 120. The connector surround 168 includes opposing transverse walls 170, each transverse wall including a through-hole 172 aligned with a through-hole 172 of the opposing transverse wall 170. The through-holes 172 are aligned along and define a connection axis through which the connector 120 can be coupled to a corresponding adapter 122.

[0545] Figure 10B A corresponding adapter 122 is shown, configured to mate with connector 120 via its connector surround 168. The rear portion of adapter 122 includes features similar to those in the reference diagram. Figure 9The adapter described has a connector portion 148 having an upper flange 150, a rectangular portion 156, and a lower shelf 160. These features have aligned through holes 152, 157, and 162 through which a pair of pins 154 can secure the adapter 122 to one side of the float 2. However, instead of having forward-projecting lugs, the adapter 122 includes an adapter surround 174, which corresponds in form to the connector surround 168. In the depicted embodiment, the adapter surround 174 is also in the form of a generally open and square wall that, in use, projects away from the side of the adapter 122 relative to the float to which it is fixed. The adapter surround 174 is sized to be inserted into and tightly received by the connector surround 168 of the connector 120. The adapter surround 174 also has opposing transverse walls 176, each of which includes a through hole 178, wherein when the adapter surround 174 is inserted into the connector surround 168, the through holes 172 of the connector surround 168 and the through holes 178 of the adapter surround 174 are respectively aligned with each other along a connecting axis, and a coupler (such as a pin or bolt 142) can be inserted along this connecting axis to couple the connector 120 to the adapter 122. In this embodiment, the connection between the connector surround 168 and the adapter surround 174 inhibits relative movement between the connector 120 and the adapter 122 about the connecting axis. It will be understood that the adapter 122 can be positioned and secured to the second float almost anywhere along the length of either side of it, thereby allowing the end of the first float to interconnect with the side of the second float at several different locations as needed.

[0546] Figures 11 to 14B A variation of another connector embodiment is shown, which is configured to seal the open end of the first float and interconnect to the side of a second float, wherein the second float is... Figure 1A and Figure 1B The floats are configured differently.

[0547] refer to Figure 11 The depicted second float 202 has the same characteristics as... Figure 1B The float 2 has a similar flat upper portion 208 with a dangling protrusion 212 and includes a lower circular portion 210 defining a hollow circular tubular structure configured to be at least partially submerged in water during use. The float also includes a lower arm 213 projecting outward from the opposite lateral side of the circular portion 210, extending along the length of the float 202. Thus, the dangling protrusion 212 and the lower arm 213 on each side of the float 202 define a longitudinal channel 215 between them, through which at least one connecting element of the connector embodiment can be connected to the side of the second float 202.

[0548] Also refer to Figure 12 The connector 220 includes a first portion 232 having a central circular cap or cover 224, which engages with and seals the opening end of a first float having a circular opening, such as a reference. Figure 11 The described type of float 220. The rear 228 of the cover 224 includes a rearwardly projecting rounded lip or skirt 234, the lip or skirt being sized to insert into the rounded opening end of the first float. The depicted connector 220 also includes two lugs 238 projecting rearwardly from the rear 228 of the cover 224; it will be understood that the lugs 238 are configured similar to Figure 5A The connector lug 38. In Figure 11 In the arrangement shown, lug 238 will be retracted within the hollow opening end of the first float, which is sealed by connector 220.

[0549] The depicted connector 220 also includes a second portion 236 having at least one forward-projecting connecting element for interconnection with the side of a second float. In the depicted embodiment, the at least one connecting element includes a pair of forward-projecting connector lugs 239, an upper lug 239a, and a lower lug 239b, wherein the upper lug 239a is configured to receive within a longitudinal channel 215 of the second float 202, the longitudinal channel being defined between its upper arm 212 and lower arm 213, as shown. Figure 11 As shown. Each lug 239 includes a pair of spaced-apart through holes 240 extending vertically through it. The through hole 240a of the upper lug 239a is aligned with the through hole 240b of the corresponding lower lug along the corresponding connecting axis. Figure 11 As shown, the coupling pin 254 can be inserted through the correspondingly positioned opening in the overhanging protrusion 212 of the float 202 and through the aligned through hole 240a of the upper lug 239a to secure the connector 220 to the side of the second float 202.

[0550] Also refer to Figure 13A An adapter 222, in the form of a block-like component, is also provided to facilitate a secure interconnection between the upper lug 239a and the float 202. In the depicted arrangement, the adapter 222 is shaped and sized such that its lower surface rests on the upper surface of the upper lug 239a, and the upper surface 245 of the adapter 222 is adapted to abut against and lie below the overhanging protrusion 212 of the float 202. The adapter 222 also includes spaced-apart openings 253, each configured to align with a corresponding through-hole in one of the through-holes 240a formed through the upper lug 239a and thus along the respective connecting axis. In this manner, and referring to... Figure 11The coupling pin 254 passes through the overhanging protrusion 212 of the float 202, through the adapter 222, the upper lug 239a, and then through the lower arm 213 of the float 202 to insert, thereby coupling the connector 220, the adapter 222 and the second float 202 together.

[0551] Figure 13A and Figure 13B A slightly different connection mechanism using the same connector 220 and adapter 222 is shown. Specifically, Figure 13A A relatively short coupling pin 254 is shown inserted through a corresponding through-hole 240a of the upper lug 239a of the connector 220. Meanwhile, Figure 13B The relatively long pin 254' of both the upper lug 239a and the lower lug 239b of connector 220 is shown; this may be preferred if a stronger or more durable interconnection between the first float and the second float is desired.

[0552] Figure 14A A connector embodiment 220' is shown, which includes an upper lug 239a but does not include a lower lug. Meanwhile, Figure 14B Another connector embodiment 220'' is simply shown, having both an upper lug 239a'' and a lower lug 239b'', wherein the lug 239'' and thus the adapter 222'' have slightly different shapes, but are still suitable for functioning as described above.

[0553] Figures 11 to 14B A further feature of the illustrated connector embodiment is that the connector is reversible. In other words, although the connector has been discussed as having a first portion sealing the opening of a first float and a second portion having at least one connecting element for interconnection with the side of a second float, the functionality of the first and second portions can be interchanged, wherein the second portion can be used to seal the opening of the first float, and the first portion may include at least one connecting element via which the connector can interconnect to the side of the second float. Reference Figure 12 The front face 226 of the circular lid or cap 224 includes a forward-projecting circular skirt 234. F This circular skirt is substantially the same as the circular skirt 234 described above, which protrudes rearward from the rear of the circular cover. In this way, the forward skirt 234... FIt can also be inserted into the open end of the float, where the front 226 of the cover 224 can abut against it for sealing. In this use case, the forward connector lug 239 extends into the hollow tubular space sealing the float, while the backward connector lug 238 is freely used for interconnection with another float and / or anchoring to a fixed structure or other structure. This reversibility and thus increased versatility and functionality of connectors 220, 220', 220'' can make manufacturing and assembly easier, and can enhance the modularity of the floating structure formed using such connectors, since the same connector can be used for different functions as needed.

[0554] Figures 15 to 19 A connector implementation suitable for working with an elongated float of yet another different configuration is shown. (Reference) Figure 15 The depicted float 302 includes a flat upper portion 308 and a lower tubular portion 310. The flat upper portion defines an upper surface on which people can walk, and the lower tubular portion has a generally circular cross-sectional shape. The width of the flat upper portion 308 extends beyond the width of the lower tubular portion 310, and the upper portion 308 can be considered to include a cantilevered protrusion 312 that increases the width on which people can walk. The float 302 also includes a pair of laterally arranged walls 317 that angle downward and inward from the underside of the flat upper portion 308 to connect to the corresponding upper portion of the tubular portion 310. The angled walls 317 extend along the length of the float 302.

[0555] Figure 16A and 16B Depicting suitable for fixing to Figure 15 The connector 320 for the float. The connector 320 includes a circular cap 324 and a rearwardly projecting lip or skirt 334, similar to... Figure 11 The connector. In this manner, the first portion 332 of the connector 302 also includes a rearwardly extending circular skirt 334, which is configured to insert into a first float (such as... Figure 11 and Figure 15 In the circular open end of the float (of the type shown), the rim 330 of the 324 can abut against the open end of the first float and seal the open end.

[0556] The opposing second portion 336 of connector 320 has a connecting element adapted to be secured around at least the lower side of the second float 302. Specifically, the depicted connecting element includes an arm shaped to extend at least partially around the circumference of the tubular portion of the float. The arm is specifically shaped and configured to engage tightly around the tubular portion 310 of the second float 302. Generally, the arm defines a circular channel configured to tightly receive the tubular portion 310 of the float 302. Specifically, the arm is configured to wrap around the lower side of the tubular portion 310 from one angled wall 317 of the float 302 to its opposite angled wall 317.

[0557] In the depicted embodiment, arm 340 defines a cylindrical channel 341 for close reception around the tubular portion 310 of the second float 302. Arm 340 includes three spaced-apart features 342 projecting forward and upward from the front of the circular cap—the central feature 342. C and in the central feature section 342 C Two transverse feature parts 342 on any side L Each feature 342 includes a curved engagement surface 344 configured to engage with the upper region of the tubular portion 310 from approximately the middle. Each feature 342 has a corresponding angled end 346 configured to engage the angled wall 317 of the lateral side of the second float 302 closest to the end of the first float. In other words, the three features 342 are wound upward against the outer surface of the tubular portion 310 to engage the proximal angled wall 317. Central feature 342 C It also includes an upper end 348, which is configured to engage the lower side of the overhanging protrusion 312 of the upper portion 308 of a lateral side of the second float 302.

[0558] The arm 340 of connector 320 also includes a hook-like structure 350 extending forward from the circular cap 324, the hook-like structure 350 having an engagement surface 352 that bends to conform to the outer curved surface of the tubular portion 310. The curved engagement surface 352 of the hook-like structure 350 is adapted to wrap around and engage around approximately the lower half of the diameter of the tubular portion 310. In other words, the hook-like structure 350 extends along the underside of the tubular portion 310 from one side of the second float 302 and terminates on the opposite side of the second float 302.

[0559] Three spaced-apart features 342' extend upward and backward from opposite ends of the hook-like structure 350. These three spaced-apart features are substantially the same as those protruding from the circular cap 324, but their relative orientation causes them to engage opposite upper sides of the tubular portion 310. Each feature 342' also has a corresponding angled end 346' configured to engage diagonal walls 317 of opposite lateral sides of the second float 302, which are furthest from the end of the first float. Central feature 342' C It also includes an upper end 348', which is configured to engage the underside of the overhanging protrusion 312 of the upper portion 308 of the opposing lateral side of the second float 202. In this way, from the angled wall 317 and overhanging protrusion 312 of one lateral side of the second float 202, via the underside of the float 302 to the opposing angled wall 317 and overhanging protrusion 312, the arm 340 of the connector 320, with its upwardly extending features 342, 342' and its hook-like structure 350, engages substantially around the circumference of the tubular portion 310. To assemble this connector 320 onto the float 302, the arm 340 of the connector 320 slides over one end of the tubular portion 310 of the float 302 and then moves along it to the desired position. (Reference) Figure 16B Note that the connecting arm 340 of the second part 336 is slotted and includes a gap or opening 354; these design aspects are intended to reduce the material of the connector 320 (and thus reduce weight and cost).

[0560] Figures 17A to 17B Another connector embodiment is shown, configured to engage at least around the lower side of the tubular portion 310 of the second float 320. However, with Figure 16A Compared to connector 320, this connector utilizes a single arm 340 to define a cylindrical channel 341 for receiving the tubular portion 310 of float 320. Figure 17A The connector 420 is configured to mate with a similar connector 420 to define a cylindrical channel 441 wound around the tubular portion 310 of the float 302.

[0561] refer to Figure 17A and Figure 17BSimilarly, connector 420 includes a first portion 432 having a rearwardly extending plug skirt 434 and a circular cap 424 for sealing the circularly open end of the first float. At least one connecting element of the second portion 436 includes a pair of forward-projecting, spaced-apart hook-like arms 450, each hook-like arm having a curved upper engagement surface 452 adapted to engage with and be secured around at least the lower side of the tubular portion 310 of the second float 302. The arms 450 may be grooved to reduce material and thus their weight. Each hook-like arm 450 also includes proximal through-holes 454 aligned with each other along the first connecting axis. P and distal through holes 454 aligned with each other along the second connecting axis toward the corresponding ends of the arm 450. D The two connecting axes are parallel to each other and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the second float 302. As will be discussed, the depicted connector 420 is configured to mate with another similar connector 420 along the connecting axis such that the mating connector 420 substantially surrounds at least the tubular portion 310 of the second float 302.

[0562] The connector 420 also includes an upwardly extending engagement structure 442 having a curved engagement surface 444 adapted to abut and engage at least the upper portion of the tubular portion 310. The top of the engagement structure 442 is grooved and includes an upper end 448 that defines a substantially horizontal plane and is configured to engage the underside of a cantilevered protrusion 312 of the flat upper portion 308 of the second float 302 at its lateral sides. Opposite sides of the upper end 448 of the engagement structure 442 are configured with an outwardly projecting flange 456 forming a vertically extending through-hole 458, through which the flange 456 can be secured to the underside of the cantilevered protrusion 312 of the float 302 (e.g., via a coupling pin or bolt). The top of the engagement structure 442 also includes an angled end 446 that defines a substantially angled plane and is configured to engage with an angled wall of the angled walls 317 of the second float 302. In the depicted embodiment, the curved engagement surface 444 of the engagement structure 442 is continuous with the upper engagement surface 452 of the corresponding hook 450, together defining a continuous curved surface that extends from approximately the base of the proximal angled wall 317 to the opposite lateral side of the tubular portion 310, engaging with and wrapping around the tubular portion and below it. Figure 17B As shown.

[0563] Figure 18AA pair of identical connectors 420a, 420b are shown, arranged facing each other such that the spaced-apart hook-like arms 450a of one connector 420a are arranged in an interleaved relationship relative to the hook-like arms 450b of the opposite connector 420b. In other words, each arm 450a, 450b of one connector 420a, 420b is slotted into a corresponding space adjacent to the arm 450b, 450a of the opposite connector 420b, 420a. Specifically, one arm 450a, 450b of each connector 420a, 420b is received in the space between the opposite arms 450b, 450a of the opposite connector 420b, 420a. Therefore, as... Figure 18B As shown, two connectors 420a and 420b are placed together to define a cylindrical channel 441 between them, which is configured to receive the tubular portion 310 of the second float 302. Hook-like arms 450a and 450b of one connector 420a and 420b are arranged to occupy the space adjacent to the hook-like arms 450b and 450a of the opposite connector 420b and 420a, resulting in an staggered arrangement of four adjacent arms 450a and 450b, the corresponding upper engagement surfaces 452a and 452b of which define the lower portion of the cylindrical channel 441. Simultaneously, engagement structures 442a and 442b of each connector 420a and 420b define the opposite upper portion of the cylindrical channel 441.

[0564] refer to Figure 18B When two connectors 420a and 420b are placed together, the distal through-hole 454a of one of the arms 450a and 450b of connector 420a and 420b... D 454b D The proximal through-hole 454b of the arms 450b and 450a of the opposite connectors 420b and 420a is configured to... P 454a P Alignment is required, and vice versa. Therefore, corresponding couplers (e.g., bolts, pins, etc.) can pass through the aligned through-holes 454a of the two connectors 420a, 420b. P 454b D and 454b P 454a D Insert to couple or mate the two connectors 420a and 420b together.

[0565] Figure 19Opposite connectors 420a, 420b are shown that mate with each other and connect to float 302. While the two connectors 420a, 420b can first mate with each other and then slide along float 302 to be secured to the float at a desired position, an optional installation method involves first securing one of the two connectors 420a, 420b to the float 302 at the desired position (via the upper flange 456). Once secured, the other connectors 420b, 420a can simply mate with the secured connector 420a, 420b. This installation or assembly method avoids the need to slide connectors 420a, 420b, or each connector, along float 302 to the appropriate position.

[0566] Figure 20A and Figure 20B A further connector embodiment is illustrated, which utilizes the teachings from the aforementioned connector embodiment, which is wound against the tubular portion of the float. Specifically, this embodiment also involves arranging a pair of identical connectors on corresponding sides of the float; however, instead of directly mating the connectors together, the connectors are interconnected via a central coupler. The opposing connectors and coupler together define a cylindrical channel for receiving the tubular portion of the float.

[0567] refer to Figure 20A Each connector 520a, 520b includes three spaced-apart features 542, similar to those described above. Figure 16A The connector embodiment 320 describes those features. Each connector 520a, 520b also includes downwardly extending engagement structures 550a, 550b having curved upper surfaces 552a, 552b for abutting against at least a portion of the tubular portion 310. The engagement structure 550 is substantially hollow and defines an internal space through which the side of the center coupler can be inserted. In the depicted embodiment, the hollow engagement structure 550a of the first connector 520a is configured to receive a first side 560a of the U-shaped center coupler 562. Similarly, the engagement structure 550b of the opposing connector 520b is configured to receive a second side 560b of the center coupler 562. In this way, the center coupler 562 interconnects the opposing connectors 520a, 520b so as to define, when thus mated, cylindrical channels similar to the cylindrical channels 341, 441 mentioned above for receiving the tubular portion 310 of the float 302.

[0568] Figures 21A to 23CA further connector embodiment is illustrated, which utilizes the teachings from the aforementioned connector embodiment, which is wound against the tubular portion of the float. Specifically, this embodiment also involves arranging a single or a pair of identical connectors on corresponding sides of the float; however, instead of simply engaging the connectors to the float, the connectors contact the float via a central coupler formed in a horseshoe or U-shaped form, or any other shape suitable for the float's shape. The single or pair of connectors and the coupler together define a cylindrical channel for receiving the tubular portion of the float. The connector includes at least an arcuate portion corresponding to the tubular portion of the float to allow for close contact between the connector and the float.

[0569] In some implementations, either the connector or the center coupler is formed with a cavity that is fitted to receive a protrusion or connector lug protruding from either the connector or the center coupler.

[0570] In some embodiments, one or more of the connector, center coupler, and float have openings sized to receive one or more pins, thereby securing the connector and center coupler to the float. This configuration ensures a secure connection between the connector, center coupler, and float by at least one or more of the following: the connector and / or center coupler have arcuate portions fitted to fit snugly to the tubular portion of the float; a cavity formed in the center coupler allows the connector to protrude through the cavity and contact the float at the arcuate surface of the connector; and the connector and center coupler are secured to the float via one or more pins. Furthermore, this configuration facilitates securing the float to the connector by pressing the float into the center coupler with pins and locking the float therein, thereby preventing the float from unintentionally protruding upwards away from the connector and center coupler.

[0571] In some implementations, the connector can simply mate with a float that has a center coupler. This installation or assembly method avoids the need to slide each connector along the float into place.

[0572] refer to Figures 21A to 23C Each connector 570a, 570b includes a protrusion or connector lug 572 projecting from either connector 570a, 570b. The protrusion 572 has an arcuate portion 574, the dimensions of which are adapted to mate with a corresponding surface of the lower tubular portion 310 of the float. A horseshoe-shaped or U-shaped center coupler 576 has a cavity 578, the dimensions of which are adapted to receive the protrusion 572 passing through it, such as... Figure 21CAs shown. An opening 580 is formed in the upper portion 308 of connectors 570a, 570b, center coupler 576 and float, and is sized to receive a pin 582 passing through it.

[0573] The protrusion 572 can be formed in any suitable manner to secure the connector to the float 302. Figure 21C and Figure 21D In the illustrated embodiment, the protrusion marked 584 here is shown as protruding substantially perpendicularly from the front 26 of connector 570 (which may be either connector 570a or 570b) relative to the lateral side of float 302.

[0574] In some implementations, connector 570, together with protrusion 572, is positioned at an angle relative to the lateral side of float 302, such as Figures 22A to 23C As seen in the image, the curved portion 574 is configured to mate with the lateral side of the float 302 and is therefore oriented at an angle relative to the front 26 of the connector 570.

[0575] This configuration allows the first float to be arranged at an angle relative to the second float, such as, for example... Figures 32 to 34 As shown, as will be described. In Figure 22A and Figure 22B In the illustrated embodiment, connector 588 is formed with an arcuate portion 590 that extends along the entire end portion 592 of protrusion 594, thereby enabling connector 588 to securely contact the lateral side of float 302.

[0576] In this embodiment, the arcuate portion 590 is oriented at a fixed angle relative to the front 26 of the connector 588, which correspondingly allows the first float to be arranged at a fixed angle relative to the second float. The first float is connected to the rear 28 of the connector 588 at its open end. The arcuate portion 590 connects the first float to the second float at a fixed angle.

[0577] exist Figures 23A to 23C In the illustrated embodiment, connector 595 is formed with an arcuate portion 596 at the end portion 597 of protrusion 598. The arcuate portion 596 is configured with a plurality of faces 599, each oriented at a different angle, thereby allowing connector 595 to securely contact the lateral side of float 302 at one of the faces 599. In this embodiment, the arcuate portion 596 can be configured to be oriented at a variable angle relative to the front face 26 of connector 595, which correspondingly allows the first float to be arranged at various angles relative to the second float. The first float connects to the rear face 28 of connector 595 at its open end. The arcuate portion 596 connects the first float to the second float at any of the various angles.

[0578] This specification also discloses an end connector for interconnecting the end of a first elongated float to the end of a second elongated float. The end connector thus facilitates the interconnection of substantially collinear floats. The end connector similarly includes a first portion for sealing an opening of the first connector, and a second portion having at least one connecting element projecting toward the end of the second float and adapted for connection to that end.

[0579] Figures 24 to 25B An exemplary end connector 620 is illustrated, which is attached to another type of elongated float 602 to seal its open end. The end connector 620 includes a circular first portion 632 similar to a previously described connector embodiment, having a circular plug skirt 634 and an associated circular rim or cap 624 for sealing the open circular end of the first float 620. The connector 620 also includes a second portion 636 having connecting elements in the form of a pair of spaced-apart hook arms or hooks 664 adapted to receive coupling elements, such as rings (not shown). In the depicted embodiment, the hooks 664 are identical but oriented relative to each other, with one hook 664a bent upwards and the other hook 664b bent downwards. In use, the end connector 620 at one end of the first float 602 can be interconnected via a coupler to another identical end connector 620 at the opposite end of a second float 602, the coupler being hooked by two hooks 664a, 664b of each connector 602. Specifically, a hook 664 of a connector 620 may be arranged adjacent to and thus staggered with the hook 664 of an opposing connector 620 to define a coupling path through which a coupler can be received to movably couple two opposing connectors 620 and therefore floats 602 relative to each other. For example, the coupler may be a closed loop received or hooked by each of the two hooks 664a, 664b of the two interconnecting connectors 620. This type of interconnection between the connectors 620 and therefore the corresponding floats 602 allows each float 620 to move relative to the other float 620 with up to six degrees of freedom, thereby allowing the floats 602 to to some extent to twist, oscillate, rotate, translate, etc., relative to the other floats 602 in response to wind and wave forces.

[0580] It will be understood that the end connector 620 also allows adjacent floats to be connected to each other in a side-by-side configuration. For example, see reference... Figure 24Two elongated floats 602, fitted with corresponding end connectors 620, can be arranged side-by-side close to each other, wherein couplers (such as rings) can be received by two hooks 664 of each adjacent connector in the adjacent connectors 620. In use, the floats 602 will remain close to each other, but are allowed to move to a certain extent relative to each other. For example, adjacent floats can oscillate and displace relative to each other in response to the motion of waves.

[0581] It will be understood that the elongated float 602 may include any type of elongated float, such as those referred to herein with reference to Figures 1 to 12. Figure 34 The described float, and the end connector 620 is configured to be fixed to the elongated float 602 in order to seal its open end.

[0582] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a modular floating structure can be formed from two or more floats and connectors. As described and depicted, embodiments of the connectors disclosed herein not only seal elongated floats, but also enable, for example: the end of one float to connect to the side of another float; and / or the end of one float to connect to the end of another float. As will be described, the connectors embodying this disclosure also enable the side of one float to connect to the side of another float. In this way, the floats and connectors embodying this disclosure are similar to well-known building blocks that can be assembled together in any number of different ways to form a floating structure that can be customized to specific needs and applications.

[0583] In some implementations, the modular floating structure is configured to include one or more of the following: buoyancy, mobility, and truss-like arrays, serving as a platform for a solar system including solar panels. The floating structure is formed from tubular floats of any suitable shape or size. The floats are sealed by connectors at their ends and can be connected to other floats vertically or at an angle via these connectors.

[0584] Figures 26 to 30 Exemplary floating structures and configurations that can be formed using connectors according to embodiments of this disclosure are shown. Figure 26 A generally rectangular floating structure 180 is shown, having a pair of opposing longitudinal floats 182 extending in the longitudinal direction and spaced apart from each other in the transverse direction. The longitudinal floats 182 are interconnected with each other via a plurality of transverse floats 184 spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction. Each end of each transverse float 184 is connected to an adjacent side of the corresponding longitudinal float 182 using a corresponding connector according to the present disclosure. The floating structure 180 is depicted as supporting an array of solar panels 99.

[0585] Figure 27Another exemplary floating structure 280 is shown, formed by a plurality of elongated floats 282 and lateral floats 284. Structure 280 includes three parallel longitudinal floats 282 spaced apart from each other in the lateral direction. The first series consists of shorter lateral floats 284. S Place the "top" vertical float 282 T With the central longitudinal float 282 C Interconnected, and the second series of shorter lateral floats 284 S Place the vertical float 282 at the bottom B With the central longitudinal float 282 C Interconnection. The floating structure 280 also includes a pair of longer lateral floats 284. L Each lateral float defines a corresponding lateral side of the floating structure 280. In other words, the longer lateral float 284 L and top longitudinal float 282 T and bottom longitudinal float 282 B Together, define the rectangular shape and boundaries of the floating structure 280. Central longitudinal float 282. C The first end is connected to the longer transverse float 284 L One of the horizontal floats is on the side, and the central vertical float is 282. C The second end is connected to other longer transverse floats 284 L The side view. It can be seen that the boundary defines float 282. T 282 B Each boundary-defining float includes a free end not fixed to an adjacent float. It is conceivable that one or more of these free ends may be sealed using a connector with an outwardly projecting connecting element, which may be tethered or otherwise anchored to a fixed structure to secure the position of the floating structure 280 relative to the body of water on which it floats. For example, Figure 11 The connector 220 of the type shown can be used in its "reverse" configuration, wherein its lugs 238 protrude outwards so as to be secured (e.g., via ropes, cables, etc.) to a fixed structure for anchoring the floating structure 280. In another example, Figure 24 The end connector 620 shown can be fixed (e.g., via rope, cable, etc.) to a fixed structure for anchoring the floating structure 280.

[0586] Figure 28A and Figure 28BAnother exemplary floating structure 480 that can be formed using the connectors disclosed herein is shown. Specifically, the floating structure 480 includes a floating access path 480 on which a person can walk, the access path 480 being formed by a plurality of longitudinal floats 482 that are parallel and adjacent to each other, wherein each float 482 is interconnected to one or more adjacent longitudinal floats 482. In other words, at least one side of each float 482 is connected to the side of an adjacent float 482 via a connector according to the present disclosure. Figure 28B The illustration shows an example of how to fix floats 482 side by side. Specifically, Figure 28B It is shown via Figure 17 to Figure 19 The floats 482 are interconnected by connectors 420 of the type depicted herein, but other connectors described herein may be used. Specifically, the first portion 432 of each connector 420, which is typically used to seal the ends of the floats, is instead secured to the opposite first portion 432 of a similar connector 420 (e.g., via welding or other coupling means), which itself is secured to the adjacent float 482. Of course, other connector embodiments disclosed herein can similarly be secured to each other via engagement between their respective first ends, so that elongated floats can be connected side by side to form a float entry path 480.

[0587] Figure 29 Based on Figure 28A Based on the floating entry path 480, two such floating entry paths 480 are shown arranged collinearly with each other. The floats 482 of each entry path 480 are separated from the floats 482 of the other entry paths 480 by a central float arrangement 486 of laterally oriented and shorter lateral floats 484, which are arranged side-by-side adjacent to and connected to each other. It is conceivable that the central arrangement of the lateral floats 484 can be sealed by a connector providing a degree of movement, such as... Figures 24 to 25B Type 620 end connector.

[0588] Figure 30 It shows a similar Figure 26 A floating structure with longitudinal floats 782 and transverse floats 784 arranged; an elongated metal rib 788 is shown, which is movably connected to the solar panel 99 so that they can tilt together to track the sun.

[0589] In some implementations, such as Figures 26 to 30 As shown by the floats, the floating structure typically extends along a common plane that extends along both the longitudinal and transverse axes and intersects with a lateral axis that is orthogonal to both the longitudinal and transverse axes. The common plane is the floating plane on the water body such that each float and connector is at least partially submerged in the water.

[0590] While the floating structures mentioned above generally depict floats on a common plane, each floating on the water surface, floats with flat upper portions can also be stacked on top of each other, with the lower floats configured to be upright and partially submerged in the water, while the upper floats can be inverted, so that the flat upper portion of the upper float abuts against the flat upper portion of the lower float. Figure 31A An exemplary floating structure 680 utilizing this type of float arrangement is shown. The floating structure 680 has a series of spaced-apart lateral floats 784, the first ends of which are connected to the side of a first longitudinal float 782, which is oriented vertically and floats in the water. The floating structure 680 also includes two longitudinal floats 782i, which are inverted and oriented such that their flat portions face and span the flat portions of the lower lateral floats 784. This type of floating structure 680 can be used as a tracker platform. Figure 31B The image shows a structure filled with solar panels.

[0591] In some implementations, such as Figures 32 to 34 As shown in the floating structure 800, the first floats 803 are arranged perpendicularly to each other and extend generally along the longitudinal and transverse axes, intersecting the lateral axis which is orthogonal to the longitudinal and transverse axes. Additionally or alternatively, the second floats 806 are arranged at an angle relative to the first floats 803, thereby increasing the structural strength of the floating structure 800 by acting as diagonal reinforcing elements. The diagonal reinforcing elements increase the strength and stiffness of the floating structure 800 while preventing angular displacement of the vertically arranged first floats 803, which could occur due to wave and wind forces. Many types of arrangements for the floating structure 800 are envisioned, and... Figures 32 to 34 Some examples are shown in the document.

[0592] Figure 32 The illustration shows two second floats 806 arranged diagonally on the side of the floating structure 800. Figure 33 and Figure 34 The illustration shows a further arrangement and pattern of the diagonally arranged second float 806 and first float 803.

[0593] The diagonally arranged second float 806 can be connected to the first float 803 in any suitable manner, such as by reference. Figures 22A to 23C The connector described.

[0594] Figures 35A to 36BAnother embodiment of connector 820 is shown, which is configured to seal the open end (not shown) of the first float and interconnect it to the side of the second float 802. Specifically, connector 820 is configured to couple to adapter 822, which itself is secured to the second float 802. Figure 35A This is an exploded view showing connector 820 and adapter 822 coupled to each other via one or more couplers before the second float 802. In the depicted embodiment, a coupler is shown, and this coupler is in the form of a vertically extending shaft or pin 842. The assembly arrangement is... Figure 35B As shown in the diagram. Connector 820, adapter 822, and the corresponding second float 802 will be referenced below. Figures 35A to 36B describe.

[0595] In some implementations, the shaft or pin, or coupling pin, may include fastening elements, such as fastening element 1020.

[0596] Connector 820 includes a generally circular first portion 832 having a rear end 828 configured to sealably close the open end of a first elongated float and an opposing front end 826, from which a pair of connector lugs 839 project toward the sides of a second float 802. In some embodiments, the lugs may be configured as a single lug, a pair of lugs, or more lugs, each of which may include the same form or may be different. In the depicted embodiment, the connector includes an upper connector lug 839a and a lower connector lug 839b below it. The upper and lower lugs 839 are generally identical but inverted relative to each other; in this way, connector 802 can be considered to have an axis of symmetry parallel to each lug 839 and extending horizontally therebetween.

[0597] In some embodiments, each lug 839 is typically hollow and includes internal reinforcing ribs for the purpose of reducing weight and material usage, as well as improving the buoyancy of connector 820. Each connector lug 839 also includes a vertically extending through-hole 840 through which connector 820 can be coupled to adapter 822. In the depicted embodiment, the through-hole 840 is at least partially defined by the internal reinforcing ribs of lug 839. Reference Figure 36A The upper lug 839a includes a set of three upper lug through holes 840a, and the lower lug 839b includes a set of three lower lug through holes 840b, each lower lug through hole being aligned with a corresponding and upper upper lug through hole 840a. In use, a corresponding coupling pin 842 can be inserted through the aligned through holes 840a, 840b to couple the connector 820 to the adapter 822 and the second float 802, as will be discussed.

[0598] Still referencing Figures 35A to 36B An adapter 822 is shown, configured to be secured to a second float 802 and coupled to a connector 820, thereby interconnecting the connectors 820 and thus interconnecting the ends of the first float to the sides of the second float 802. The adapter 822 is generally in the form of a U-shaped collar, configured to at least partially receive a correspondingly shaped tubular lower portion 810 of the second float 802. In the depicted embodiment, the U-shaped adapter 822 includes a lower portion 850 secured around the lower side of the tubular portion 810 of the second float 802. Opposing and generally hollow rectangular transverse frames 860 extend upward from opposite sides of the lower portion 850 of the adapter 822, each rectangular transverse frame being configured to extend around a corresponding side of the tubular portion 810 of the second float 802.

[0599] refer to Figure 36A Each transverse frame 860 includes a pair of vertically extending and spaced-apart frame members 880 interconnected via a horizontally extending upper portion 882a and a horizontally extending lower portion 882b spaced below therebelow. Each portion 882 has a set of three vertically extending through holes 884a, 884b. Specifically, the lower portion through hole 884b is vertically aligned with a corresponding upper portion through hole 884a. As will be discussed, these aligned through holes 884 of the adapter 822 are configured to align with corresponding aligned through holes 840 of the connector 820, such that a corresponding coupler 842 can be received through the aligned through holes 840, 884 to couple the connector 820 to the adapter 822. The adapter 822 is also configured to be relatively lightweight to improve its buoyancy, and therefore it can be substantially hollow. For example, in the depicted embodiment, the upper and lower horizontal extensions 882 of the transverse frame 860 are generally hollow and include internal reinforcing ribs that also at least partially define the upper and lower portion through holes 884.

[0600] Figure 36A A connector 820 is shown in its proper position, ready to be coupled to an adapter 822. As can be seen, each transverse frame 860 of the adapter 822 also includes a horizontally extending member 886 that can be used to reinforce the rectangular frame 860. The horizontal member 886 spans the width of the rectangular frame 860 between the vertical frame elements 880 of the rectangular frame 860 and is positioned between and spaced apart from the upper and lower portions 882 of the adapter 822. In this way, each transverse frame 860 defines a pair of horizontal openings or slots 888, each horizontal opening or slot being configured to at least partially receive a corresponding connector lug 839 of the connector. Also referenced... Figure 36BTo couple connector 820 to adapter 822, connector lug 839 is inserted into a corresponding slot 888 of transverse frame 860 for a tight reception. This "insertion" of lug 839 into the corresponding slot 888 of adapter 822 facilitates coupling of connector 820 to it, as connector 820 and adapter 822 are relatively visually assembled together. As can be seen, connector lug 839 is received in the corresponding slot 888 such that the through-hole 840a of upper lug 839a is below and perpendicularly aligned with the corresponding through-hole 884a of upper portion 882a of transverse frame 860. Similarly, the through-hole 840b of lower lug 839b is above and perpendicularly aligned with the corresponding through-hole 884b of lower portion 882b of transverse frame 860. In this manner, an elongated coupler (such as pin 842) can be inserted through the upper portion through-hole 884a, the lower upper lug through-hole 840a, and the aligned lower lug through-hole 840b of the frame 860, and finally through the lower portion through-hole 884b of the adapter 822, thereby coupling the connector 820 to the adapter 822. In the depicted embodiment, only a single coupling pin 842 is shown, but of course one or more coupling pins can be inserted through the aligned through-holes 840, 884 to couple the connector 820 to the adapter 822.

[0601] Note that the distal surface or end 890 of each connector lug includes a curved or arcuate surface 890. This curved surface 890 conforms to the curvature of the outer tubular lower portion 810 of the elongated float 802. When assembled, the curved distal surface 890 is configured to extend through the horizontal slot 888 of the adapter 822 and abut the exterior of the tubular portion 810 of the float 802.

[0602] Also refer to Figure 35A and Figure 35B The depicted adapter 822 is configured to couple to a float 802 having a generally flat upper portion 808 with overhanging lateral protrusions 812. Each protrusion 812 includes spaced-apart through-holes 892 configured to align with corresponding through-holes 840, 884 of the connector 820 and adapter 822. In this manner, coupling pins 842 can couple the second float 802, adapter 822, and connector 820 together.

[0603] For ease of assembly, the overhanging protrusion 812 of the adapter 822 and the second float 802 includes a cooperating positioning element to facilitate positioning of the adapter 822 relative to the second float 802. In the depicted embodiment, the cooperating positioning element is in the form of a guide pin 894 of the adapter 822, which is received within a positioning opening 896 formed in the overhanging protrusion 812 of the float 802. (Reference) Figure 36AThe upper portion 882a of the transverse frame 860 of the adapter 822 includes an upwardly projecting guide pin 894 on its opposite transverse side, which is received within a correspondingly positioned positioning opening 896 formed through the overhanging protrusion 812 of the second float 802. During assembly, the adapter 822 can thus be positioned such that each guide pin 894 is received within the corresponding positioning opening 896 of the second float 802. In this way, the upper portion 882a of the adapter 822 abuts against and is received below the overhanging protrusion 812, such that the through-hole 892 of the second float 802 is perpendicularly aligned with the corresponding through-hole 884 of the adapter 822. Next, the connector 820 can be brought toward the adapter 822 such that its lug 839 is inserted into the corresponding slot 888 of the adapter 822, whereby the curved distal end 890 of the lug 839 abuts against the outside of the tubular portion 810 of the second float 802. Finally, and referring to Figure 35A One or more couplers 842 can be inserted downward through the corresponding and aligned through holes of the overhanging protrusion 812, the adapter 822 and the connector 820, thereby connecting the adapter 822 and the connector 820 together and connecting to the second float 802.

[0604] As discussed, the connector disclosed herein facilitates the interconnection of elongated floats, and specifically, the interconnection of the ends of one float with the sides of another float, such that the interconnected floats are oriented laterally or even substantially perpendicular to each other. Therefore, the connector allows for the formation of a mesh-like floating arrangement that can buoyantly support an array of PV modules. Figure 37A An exemplary floating PV arrangement 900 is shown in the figure. Figure 37B The same arrangement 900 supporting a pair of generally rectangular PV modules 999 is shown below and referenced. Figures 37A to 43 This arrangement 900, together with its components, is described to illustrate the working principle of an embodiment of the utility model disclosed herein.

[0605] Figure 37A The illustration shows a floating PV arrangement 900 for supporting at least one PV module 999. The arrangement 900 includes a first elongated float 902. L Second slender float 902 T The second elongated float has the same characteristics as the first elongated float 902. L One end of the side-interconnected structure (e.g., via a connector disclosed herein) is such that the first and second floats 902 are substantially perpendicular to each other. Opposite first elongated floats 902 are also depicted. LO The first slender float is interconnected with the second slender float 902 T The other ends and therefore parallel to the first slender float 902 L Orientation. For illustrative purposes, the first slender float 902 is depicted relative to the others.LO Furthermore, the first slender float can easily support a pair of PV panels 999, 999 O For simplicity, the following description will focus primarily on the floating arrangement 900, which includes first longitudinal floats 902 interconnected to support a single PV panel 999. L and the vertically oriented second slender float 902 T However, it will be understood that the description will also apply to the relatively elongated first panel 902. LO And the corresponding PV panel 999 O Furthermore, the associated teachings can be readily applied and adapted to construct floating PV support systems comprising any number of floats and PV panels supported thereon.

[0606] The arrangement of floats, or each float, has at least one mounting position for supporting at least one PV module. As will be discussed, the PV module correspondingly includes at least one support area, via which the PV module can be supported by at least one mounting position of the floating arrangement. In practice, the arrangement may have two or more mounting positions, via which the PV module can be supported at a corresponding number of support areas. For example, the PV module may have one or more support areas around its edges (e.g., its frame), below the PV module, and possibly away from the edges. In practice, it is considered that the PV module can provide several different support areas via which the floating arrangement can support the PV module, preferably so that the solar cells of the PV module are not shaded. Similarly, floats can be arranged as needed to support the PV module at desired locations, whether these floats are along one or more edges of the PV module, at its corners, substantially below the area occupied by the PV module itself, etc. Reference Figures 37A to 43 The specific arrangement is described, but it will be obvious that this is merely one of any number of different arrangements that can be modified as needed.

[0607] refer to Figure 37A First float 902 L Second float 902 T Each float comprises a generally flat upper portion 908 and a generally tubular and hollow lower portion 910. The lateral sides of the flat upper portion include outwardly extending or overhanging protrusions 912; see, for example, [reference needed]. Figure 38B In the depicted embodiment, the overhanging protrusion 912 provides one or more mounting locations through which the PV module 999 can be supported. For example, multiple spaced-apart mounting locations may be provided along the length of the overhanging protrusion 912, and the desired mounting locations may be selected based on the needs of the PV arrangement, including factors such as the desired size and orientation of the PV module to be supported.

[0608] Correspondingly, the PV module 999 includes at least one support area, through which the PV module can be supported at at least one mounting location of the floating arrangement 900. For example, the peripheral frame 914 of the PV module 999 may include any number of spaced-apart support areas, through which the PV module 999 can be supported at corresponding mounting locations. In this way, the floating arrangement 900 is highly modular and can be assembled and arranged in any number of different configurations as needed.

[0609] Figure 37B An exemplary arrangement 900 is shown, in which a rectangular PV panel 999 is supported at three distinct support regions 916a to 916c via three corresponding mounting positions 917a to 917c of the floating arrangement 900. Specifically, the PV panel includes a first side 919 having two spaced-apart support regions 916a and 916b and a second side 921 having a third support region 916c. It is believed that by supporting the PV panel 999 at three such support regions 916, rather than four or more (e.g., two support regions on each side of the PV panel), the panel 999 can experience reduced load in response to dynamic forces from wind, water movement, waves, etc.

[0610] In the depicted implementation, three support regions 916 define the corresponding vertices of the imaginary triangle shape, such as... Figure 37B The dashed lines in the diagram indicate this. It can be seen that a single support region 916c at the second side 921 of the PV panel 999 is approximately aligned with its center, such that the PV module 999 is supported approximately symmetrically by the floating arrangement 900. In some embodiments, the imaginary triangle shape may be in the form of an equilateral triangle. Alternatively, the triangle shape may be in the form of an isosceles triangle, wherein a first support region 916a and a second support region 916b on one side 919 of the PV module 999 define the base of this isosceles triangle. It may be preferred that at least two of the support regions are approximately equidistant from the center of the PV module 999. It may also be preferred to select support regions that are all equidistant from the center of the PV module 999.

[0611] This document also discloses a mounting element 923 via which the float 902 can be interconnected to the PV module 999, such that its support region 916 is interconnected to the corresponding mounting position 917 of the float 902. While any number of ways in which the PV module 999 is interconnected to the float 902 are considered to be within the scope of this specification, a specific mounting element 923 is shown in the accompanying drawings for illustrative purposes.

[0612] Figure 40An exemplary mounting member 923 for interconnecting a PV module 999 to a float 902 is shown. The mounting member 923 has a generally constant cross-sectional shape including a forward portion 925 and a rearward portion 927, the forward portion being configured to be secured to a corresponding support region 916 of the PV module 999, and the rearward portion being configured to be mounted to a corresponding mounting position 917 of the float 902. In the depicted embodiment, the forward portion is in the form of an opening 925 projecting outward from a flat plate 933 and is configured to receive a segment of the support region 916 of the PV module 999, such as its peripheral frame 914. In the depicted embodiment, the opening 925 includes an upper jaw 929 and a lower jaw 931, the upper jaw being arranged at least partially above the frame 914 of the PV module 999 (see [link to previous embodiment]). Figure 41A The lower jaw is arranged to be at least partially located below the PV module (see [link]). Figure 41B In this manner, the jaws 925 and their jaws 929, 931 can be considered to clamp or engage around a section of the peripheral frame 914 of the PV module 999 to help maintain its position. In some embodiments, the upper jaw 929 protrudes outward from the flat plate 933 less than the lower jaw 931, such that the upper jaw 929 does not extend above or otherwise obstruct the solar receiver of the PV module 999. The lower jaw 931 may have an opening 935, etc., through which the lower jaw 931 can be secured (e.g., via fasteners) to the PV module.

[0613] Return to reference Figure 40 It will be noted that two jaws 929, 931 extend forward and vertically from a generally flat plate 933, which is slightly angled to the vertical. In this way, if improved solar efficiency is desired, the mounting member 923 can be arranged to hold the PV module 999 at an angle to the horizontal. The rearward portion 927 of the mounting member 923 includes a rearwardly extending mounting plate 937 configured to be mounted to a corresponding mounting position 917 of the float 902. For example, the depicted rearward mounting plate 937 includes a through hole 939 that can be aligned with a corresponding through hole formed in the overhanging protrusion 912 of the float 902 and secured thereto via a coupler 942 (such as an elongated pin or shaft) for coupling the mounting member 923 to the float 902. This coupling of the mounting member 923 to the overhanging protrusion 912 of the float 902... Figure 41A and Figure 41B As shown in the figure, the lowermost end of the flat plate 933 protrudes slightly lower than the rear mounting plate 937 and defines a flange that is configured to abut the outer surface 943 of the overhanging protrusion 912 and help to position the mounting member against the outer surface.

[0614] Figure 40The mounting member 923 has a first shorter length, which, in the depicted embodiment, is adapted to accommodate a first support region 916a and a second support region 916b arranged along a first side 919 of the PV module 999, such as... Figure 38A As shown. In this manner, the depicted arrangement includes substantially identical first mounting member 923a and second mounting member 923b, which are respectively along the first elongated float 902 L Installed to a spaced-apart first mounting position 917a and a second mounting position 917b, and configured to support the PV module 999 via corresponding and respective first support regions 916a and second support regions 916b spaced apart along a first side 919 of the PV module 999.

[0615] The depicted arrangement 900 also includes a third mounting member 923c, which has connections with the first mounting member 923a and the second mounting member 923b (i.e., Figure 40 The mounting member 923 shown has a substantially the same cross-sectional shape as the PV module 999, but is longer and configured to support the opposing second side 921 of the PV module 999. This third mounting member 923c... Figure 42B As shown, and similarly includes a forward portion in the form of an opening 925, which is configured to receive a segment of the peripheral frame 914 of the PV module 999 therein, the segment defining a third support region 916c of the PV module 999. In the depicted embodiment, the lower jaw 931 of the third mounting member 923c includes a pair of spaced-apart openings 935 through which the third mounting member 923c can be fastened to the second side 921 of the PV module 999 via its peripheral frame 914.

[0616] In the embodiment where the PV module 999 will be supported so that it is approximately horizontal, the flat plate 933 of the mounting member 923 does not need to be angled. However, referring to Figure 38B The depicted arrangement shows a PV module 999 mounted at an angle, with a second side 921 raised above the first side 919. To this end, the arrangement described herein also includes a lifter operable to raise or elevate one side of the PV module 999 above the other sides, causing it to tilt to improve solar energy efficiency. While any number of ways to raise one side of the panel is considered within the scope of this specification, this specification discloses an arrangement utilizing the modularity and flexibility of its components. Specifically, the lifter is in the form of an inverted segment of an elongated float 902i. The inverted float 902i is oriented such that it is substantially parallel to the first float 902. L However, it flips up and down and is fixed to the second horizontal float 902. T The flat upper part 908T ,like Figure 37A As shown. Also refer to Figure 42A and Figure 43 Couplers (such as fastening pins or shafts 942) can pass through the lateral overhang protrusion 912i of the inverted float 902i and the vertical second float 902. T The flat part below 908 T The aligned through-hole formed in the middle is inserted, thereby securing the inverted lifter float 902i to the slender second float 902 below. T The tubular portion 910i of the inverted float 902i also has a corresponding opening 945 through which the rear plate 937 of the corresponding third mounting member 923c can be (e.g., via fastener 947) secured to the lifter float 902i, as... Figure 42A and Figure 42B As shown. In this manner, and referring to... Figure 37B and Figure 38B A pair of adjacent PV modules 999, 999 O (Its corresponding second side is interconnected to the lifter float 902i) can be tilted, so that the PV modules 999, 999 O They are roughly mirror images of each other and form a sloping, roof-like arrangement. Using several such PV modules arranged in this way, the PV module array can be considered as forming a repeating module array that alternately tilts upward and downward to create peaks and valleys in a floating arrangement, which can utilize the movement of wind to help cool the PV panels during use.

[0617] The PV module can be fully fixed to the PV support system at one or more support areas that keep the PV module stationary, or the PV module can be partially fixed at one or more support areas and allow one or more degrees of freedom to move the PV module for tracking the sun or for any other application.

[0618] Advantageously, relatively customized floating PV support systems can be formed from a relatively small number of components, including slender floats, mounting elements, and couplers. Notably, no non-buoyant slender components or rods are required to form the floating PV arrangement disclosed herein. Therefore, relatively large-scale but customized PV solutions can be readily provided via kits comprising a relatively small number of components, primarily floats and mounting elements.

[0619] According to another aspect, this specification discloses a fastening arrangement for fastening an object to another object or multiple objects using fastening elements, such as referring to, for example... Figures 44 to 55 Described. According to some aspects, a fastening arrangement utilizing fastening elements can be used to fasten a connector to at least one float, for interconnecting elongated floats relative to each other, as exemplified by reference to... Figures 54A to 55 Described.

[0620] For the purpose of describing the examples described in the applications disclosed herein, it should be understood herein that “fastening” is intended to mean connecting a first object to a second object by a fastening element to prevent at least one of the following relative movements: axial and non-axial movement, such as rotation, of the first and second objects relative to a longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axis may be defined along any of the following: the first object, the second object, and the fastening element. In some embodiments, the first and / or second objects are formed with an upper surface, a lower surface, and a hole extending between them along their longitudinal axis. Linear movement may include axial movement, which is movement along or parallel to the longitudinal axis. Linear movement may include movement transverse to the longitudinal axis. Nonlinear movement may include any movement deviating from a straight or purely linear path along or relative to the longitudinal axis. This includes, but is not limited to, movement following a curved, oscillating, or angular path relative to the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, nonlinear movement includes rotational movement around the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, nonlinear movement includes oscillation, helical, and / or any angular movement around the longitudinal axis.

[0621] The object can be shaped in any suitable manner and may include, for example, at least one or more curved surfaces and / or one or more flat surfaces, such as an upper surface, a lower surface, and a hole extending therebetween. In some embodiments, the object may be shaped as a panel that includes an upper surface, a lower surface, and a hole extending therebetween.

[0622] Now for reference Figure 44 and Figure 45 The illustration shows an example of a fastening arrangement 1000 (when assembled) and its components according to the subject matter disclosed herein. The fastening arrangement 1000 includes an object 1002 having an upper surface 1004, a lower surface 1006, and a hole 1008 having a wall 1009 and extending therebetween along its longitudinal axis 1010.

[0623] The fastening arrangement 1000 further includes a fastening element 1020 that is insertable into a hole 1008 along a longitudinal axis 1010 in a first direction indicated by arrow 1022 and is lockable to an object 1002 in a locked state. The fastening element 1020 includes at least one or both of the following: an axial resistance mechanism 1026 operable in a locked state to resist axial movement of the fastening element 1020 from the hole 1008 along the longitudinal axis 1010 in a second direction indicated by arrow 1028 opposite to the first direction 1022; and a rotational resistance mechanism 1030 operable in a locked state to resist rotational movement of the fastening element 1020 in the hole 1008 about the longitudinal axis 1010.

[0624] Object 1002 may include a first object connected to the second object. An example of the second object is provided below. Figures 54A to 55 describe.

[0625] The axial resistance mechanism and the rotary resistance mechanism may each include primary and secondary dimensions. In some embodiments, the primary dimension of the axial resistance mechanism is not aligned with the primary dimension of the rotary resistance mechanism. In some embodiments, the secondary dimension of the axial resistance mechanism is not aligned with the secondary dimension of the rotary resistance mechanism. In some embodiments, the primary dimension of the axial resistance mechanism is aligned with the secondary dimension of the rotary resistance mechanism. In some embodiments, the secondary dimension of the axial resistance mechanism is aligned with the primary dimension of the rotary resistance mechanism.

[0626] The primary dimension of an axial resistance mechanism and / or a rotary resistance mechanism can be defined as the distance between two points on a plane, which is greater than a secondary dimension, which is the distance between two points on the same or different planes. In some embodiments, the primary dimension may include the maximum distance between two edges of a surface on a plane, and the secondary dimension may include the minimum distance between two edges of a surface on a plane.

[0627] The minor dimension of either the axial resistance mechanism or the rotary resistance mechanism may be at an angle or even orthogonal to the major dimension of the corresponding axial resistance mechanism or rotary resistance mechanism.

[0628] Axial resistance mechanisms and / or rotational resistance mechanisms can be shaped into oval or arc-shaped forms, such as ellipses or arcs, and thus, the primary dimensions can form the major axis of the oval shape, and the secondary dimensions can form the minor axis of the oval shape.

[0629] like Figure 45 As seen in the diagram, the axial resistance mechanism 1026 and the rotary resistance mechanism 1030 include major and minor dimensions. In some embodiments, the major dimension 1040 of the axial resistance mechanism is misaligned with the major dimension 1042 of the rotary resistance mechanism. In some embodiments, the minor dimension 1046 of the axial resistance mechanism is misaligned with the minor dimension 1048 of the rotary resistance mechanism.

[0630] The primary dimension 1040 of the axial resistance mechanism 1026 is the distance between two points P1 and P2 on the reference plane RP1. Within the distance between P1 and P2, the primary dimension is greater than the secondary dimension 1046 of the axial resistance mechanism, which is the distance between two points P3 and P4 on the same reference plane RP1. Similarly, the primary dimension 1042 of the rotational resistance mechanism 1030 is the distance between two points P5 and P6 on the reference plane RP2. Within the distance between P5 and P6, the primary dimension is greater than the secondary dimension 1048 of the rotational resistance mechanism, which is the distance between two points P7 and P8 on the same second reference plane RP2. The primary dimension 1040 of the axial resistance mechanism 1026 includes the maximum distance between the two edges of the surface on the reference plane RP1 (i.e., between points P1 and P2), and the secondary dimension 1046 of the axial resistance mechanism 1026 includes the minimum distance between the two edges of the surface on the reference plane RP1 (i.e., between points P3 and P4). Similarly, the primary dimension 1042 of the rotational resistance mechanism 1030 includes the maximum distance between the two edges of the surface on the reference plane RP2 (i.e., between points P5 and P6), and the secondary dimension 1048 of the rotational resistance mechanism 1030 includes the minimum distance between the two edges of the surface on the reference plane RP2 (i.e., between points P7 and P8).

[0631] The secondary dimension 1046 of the axial resistance mechanism 1026 is orthogonal to the primary dimension 1040 of the axial resistance mechanism 1026. Similarly, the secondary dimension 1048 of the rotary resistance mechanism 1030 is orthogonal to the primary dimension 1042 of the rotary resistance mechanism 1030. The axial resistance mechanism is shaped like an oval, and thus, the primary dimension 1040 of the axial resistance mechanism 1026 constitutes the long axis of the oval shape, and the secondary dimension 1046 of the axial resistance mechanism 1026 constitutes the short axis of the oval shape. The rotary resistance mechanism 1030 is shaped like an oval, and thus, the primary dimension 1042 of the rotary resistance mechanism 1030 constitutes the long axis of the oval shape, and the secondary dimension 1048 of the rotary resistance mechanism 1030 constitutes the short axis of the oval shape.

[0632] The rotary resistance mechanism can be arranged axially spaced from the axial resistance mechanism along the longitudinal axis. The rotary resistance mechanism can be axially positioned above the axial resistance mechanism, closer to the upper end of the fastening element than the axial resistance mechanism. Alternatively, or when additional axial resistance mechanisms and / or additional rotary resistance mechanisms are also present, the rotary resistance mechanism can be axially positioned below or above the axial resistance mechanism. In some embodiments, the rotary resistance mechanism can be arranged spaced from the axial resistance mechanism along an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the rotary resistance mechanism and the axial resistance mechanism can be integrally formed as the same structure.

[0633] like Figure 44 and Figure 45 As can be seen, the rotary resistance mechanism 1030 can be arranged axially along the longitudinal axis 1010 above the axial resistance mechanism and closer to the upper end 1049 of the fastening element 1020.

[0634] When the fastening element 1020 is inserted into the hole of the object, the fastening element 1020 extends longitudinally along an axis coaxial with the longitudinal axis 1010. Therefore, regardless of whether the fastening element 1020 is inserted into the hole 1008, the longitudinal axis of the fastening element 1020 will be referred to herein as the longitudinal axis 1010.

[0635] The primary dimensions of the axial resistance mechanism extend along an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis 1010, such as the axial resistance mechanism latitude axis and / or the axial resistance mechanism transverse axis. Secondary dimensions of the axial resistance mechanism may extend along the axial resistance mechanism latitude axis and / or the axial resistance mechanism transverse axis.

[0636] The primary dimensions of the rotary resistance mechanism extend along an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis 1010, such as the latitudinal axis and / or transverse axis of the rotary resistance mechanism. Secondary dimensions of the rotary resistance mechanism may extend along the latitudinal axis and / or transverse axis of the rotary resistance mechanism.

[0637] The lateral axis of the axial resistance mechanism can be transverse to the transverse axis of the axial resistance mechanism. The lateral axis of the rotary resistance mechanism can be transverse to the transverse axis of the rotary resistance mechanism. The lateral axis of the axial resistance mechanism can be parallel, coaxial, or non-parallel to the lateral axis of the rotary resistance mechanism, and the transverse axis of the axial resistance mechanism can be parallel, coaxial, or non-parallel to the transverse axis of the rotary resistance mechanism.

[0638] like Figure 44 and Figure 45 As seen in the diagram, the transverse axis 1050 of the axial resistance mechanism is orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 1010 and the latitude axis 1052 of the axial resistance mechanism. Both the transverse axis 1050 and the latitude axis 1052 of the axial resistance mechanism lie on the first reference plane RP1. The transverse axis 1060 of the rotational resistance mechanism is orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 1010 and the latitude axis 1062 of the rotational resistance mechanism. Both the transverse axis 1060 and the latitude axis 1062 of the rotational resistance mechanism lie on the second reference plane RP2. Reference plane RP1 is parallel to reference plane RP2, and thus the transverse axis 1050 of the axial resistance mechanism is parallel to the transverse axis 1060 of the rotational resistance mechanism, and the latitude axis 1052 of the axial resistance mechanism is parallel to the latitude axis 1062 of the rotational resistance mechanism.

[0639] The secondary dimension 1046 of the axial resistance mechanism extends along the transverse axis 1050 of the axial resistance mechanism and is smaller than the primary dimension 1040 of the axial resistance mechanism. The primary dimension 1042 of the rotary resistance mechanism extends along the transverse axis 1060 of the rotary resistance mechanism, and the secondary dimension 1048 of the rotary resistance mechanism extends along the latitudinal axis 1062 of the rotary resistance mechanism and is smaller than the primary dimension 1046 of the rotary resistance mechanism.

[0640] The hole of the object has primary and secondary dimensions, such as the object's latitude axis and the object's transverse axis, extending along an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis 1010. The hole's latitude axis may be transverse to the hole's transverse axis. The hole may be shaped into an oval form, which includes the hole's secondary dimensions forming the short axis of the oval shape and the hole's primary dimensions forming the long axis of the oval shape.

[0641] like Figure 44 As shown, the hole 1008 is formed into an oval shape, which includes a primary hole dimension 1070 constituting the long axis of the oval shape and a secondary hole dimension 1072 constituting the short axis of the oval shape. The object's transverse axis 1074 is orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 1010 and the object's latitude axis 1076. The object's transverse axis 1074 and the object's latitude axis 1076 are located on the third reference plane RP3.

[0642] As described herein, when the fastening element 1020 moves between the unlocked and locked states relative to the object 1002, the orientation of the axial resistance mechanism transverse axis 1050, the axial resistance mechanism latitude axis 1052, the rotational resistance mechanism transverse axis 1060, and the rotational resistance mechanism latitude axis 1062 changes relative to the object transverse axis 1070 and the object latitude axis 1072, and vice versa.

[0643] Axial resistance mechanisms may include elements or structures that prevent a fastening element from moving out of a hole, at least in a direction opposite to the direction in which the fastening element is inserted. In some embodiments, the axial resistance mechanism may utilize a retaining ring or snap ring disposed within a groove in the fastening element or hole wall, which expands into place upon insertion to resist axial forces. In some embodiments, the axial resistance mechanism may include a spring-loaded ball brake positioned within the fastening element body to engage a corresponding recess or groove in the hole, wherein the spring tension provides resistance to axial displacement. In some embodiments, the axial resistance mechanism may include a tapered interference fit, wherein a tapered section of the fastening element fits tightly within a matching tapered section in the hole, thereby generating frictional resistance against axial movement. In some embodiments, the axial resistance mechanism may include a threaded engagement, wherein an external thread on the fastening element interfaces with an internal thread in the hole. In some embodiments, the axial resistance mechanism may include an expandable sleeve located near the insertion end of the fastening element; upon insertion, this sleeve expands to press against the hole wall, thereby securing the fastening element in place. In some embodiments, the axial resistance mechanism may include a locking tab or barb that extends from the fastening element and engages with the bore wall or internal groove to effectively resist axial displacement. In some embodiments, the axial resistance mechanism may include a cross pin or locking pin inserted through the fastening element to provide additional axial resistance and further secure the fastening element within the bore.

[0644] Rotational resistance mechanisms may include structural elements operable to resist (i.e. prevent) rotational movement of a fastening element within a hole about a longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the rotational resistance mechanism may include an expandable snap, such as a clip or spring-loaded snap, that expands upon insertion to securely engage with the hole, thereby effectively locking the fastening element in place and resisting rotation. In some embodiments, the rotational resistance mechanism may include torsion-locking lugs at the ends of the fastening element that, after insertion, rotate into corresponding recesses within the hole, creating a locking configuration that inhibits rotation. In some embodiments, the rotational resistance mechanism may include a wedge mechanism in which a wedge or cam is positioned within the hole and subsequently twisted or tightened to expand against the hole wall to lock in place and prevent rotational movement. In some embodiments, the rotational resistance mechanism may include screws integrated along the fastening element that align with recesses in the hole; once in place, these retaining screws can be tightened to engage with the recesses, thereby forming a secure rotational resistance lock. In some embodiments, the rotary resistance mechanism may include an expandable sleeve having a locking ridge on its surface, which expands upon insertion to press its ridged surface against the bore wall to resist any rotational movement. In some embodiments, the rotary resistance mechanism may include a rotating collar using a notch engagement, wherein the collar rotates upon insertion to engage with a slot or notch in the bore, thereby securing the fastening element in a locked rotary resistance position.

[0645] In some embodiments, the fastening element may include a shaft and a locking unit. The shaft extends parallel to a longitudinal axis 1010, at least when it is in the insertion hole. The locking unit may include a rotational resistance mechanism comprising at least one deflectable portion extending from the shaft parallel to a transverse axis of the rotational resistance mechanism. The deflectable portion is deflectable about a deflection axis parallel to or coaxial with the latitudinal axis of the rotational resistance mechanism. The locking unit further includes an axial resistance mechanism disposed along a first reference plane, the axial resistance mechanism including a stop portion extending from the shaft. The primary dimension of the axial resistance mechanism constitutes the primary dimension of the stop portion extending along the latitudinal axis of the axial resistance mechanism. The primary dimension of the stop portion is larger than a secondary dimension of the stop portion extending along the transverse axis of the axial resistance mechanism. The primary dimension of the rotational resistance mechanism constitutes the primary dimension of the deflectable portion extending along the transverse axis of the rotational resistance mechanism. The secondary dimension of the deflectable portion is smaller than the primary dimension of the deflectable portion and extends along the deflection axis.

[0646] exist Figures 46A to 53 In the illustration, fastening element 1020 is shown by way of example, and it will be understood that fastening element 1020 can be implemented by many forms of structure. Figures 46A to 53The fastening element 1020 includes a shaft 1080 and a locking unit 1082. The shaft 1080 extends parallel to the longitudinal axis 1010 when at least in the insertion hole 1008. The locking unit 1082 includes a rotational resistance mechanism 1030, which includes a deflectable portion 1086 extending from the shaft 1080 parallel to the transverse axis 1060 of the rotational resistance mechanism. The deflectable portion 1086 is deflectable about a deflection axis 1088, which is parallel to or coaxial with the latitudinal axis 1062 of the rotational resistance mechanism. The locking unit 1082 further includes an axial resistance mechanism 1026 disposed along a first reference plane RP1, which includes a stop portion 1090 extending from the shaft 1080.

[0647] The axial resistance mechanism has a main dimension of 1040, and the stop part has a main dimension of 1092, such as... Figure 46B The stop portion's main dimension 1092 extends along the lateral axis 1052 of the axial resistance mechanism. At least when viewed from the top view in orientation along the longitudinal axis 1010, the stop portion's main dimension 1092 is larger than the stop portion's secondary dimension 1094, which extends along the lateral axis 1050 of the axial resistance mechanism. The rotary resistance mechanism's main dimension 1042 constitutes the deflectable portion's main dimension 1096, which extends along the lateral axis 1060 of the rotary resistance mechanism. At least when viewed from the top view in orientation along the longitudinal axis 1010, the deflectable portion's secondary dimension 1098 is smaller than the deflectable portion's main dimension 1096 and extends along the deflection axis 1088.

[0648] The dimensions of the deflectable and stop portions are adapted to allow insertion through a hole in the object, either partially or completely.

[0649] In this description, the deflectable portion 1086 has a reference plane including the lateral axis of the deflectable portion, which is coaxial with the lateral axis 1060 of the rotational resistance mechanism and will therefore be referred to by the same reference numeral 1060. The deflection axis 1088 is positioned along the latitudinal axis of the deflectable portion, which is coaxial with the latitudinal axis 1062 of the rotational resistance mechanism and will therefore be referred to by the same reference numeral 1062. The reference plane of the deflectable portion is coplanar with the second reference plane RP2 and includes a secondary dimension 1098 and a primary dimension 1096 of the deflectable portion.

[0650] The stop portion 1090 has a reference plane including a lateral axis and a latitudinal axis. The lateral axis is coaxial with the lateral axis 1050 of the axial resistance mechanism and will therefore be referred to by the same reference numeral 1050. The latitudinal axis is coaxial with the latitudinal axis 1052 of the axial resistance mechanism and will therefore be referred to by the same reference numeral 1052. The stop portion reference plane is coplanar with the first reference plane RP1 and includes a secondary dimension 1094 and a primary dimension 1092 of the stop portion.

[0651] In some implementations, the primary dimensions of the deflectable portion are two points extending along the lateral axis of the deflectable portion (e.g., Figure 46A The farthest distance between points P5 and P6 on the second reference plane RP2. The secondary dimension of the deflectable portion is the shortest distance between two points along the latitude axis of the deflectable portion. For example, Figure 46B Points P7 and P8 are shown on the second reference plane RP2. Similarly, the primary dimension of the stop is the farthest distance between two points of the stop extending along the latitudinal axis of the stop (e.g., points P1 and P2 on the first reference plane RP1), and the secondary dimension of the stop is the shortest distance between two points of the stop extending along the transverse axis of the stop (e.g., points P3 and P4 on the first reference plane RP1).

[0652] The primary and secondary dimensions of the deflectable portion can be aligned or misaligned relative to the primary and secondary dimensions of the stop portion.

[0653] exist Figure 46A and Figure 46B In this example, the major dimension 1096 of the deflectable part is misaligned with the major dimension 1092 of the stop part, and the minor dimension 1098 of the deflectable part is misaligned with the minor dimension 1094 of the stop part. Conversely, the major dimension 1096 of the deflectable part is aligned with the minor dimension 1094 of the stop part, and the minor dimension 1098 of the deflectable part is aligned with the major dimension 1092 of the stop part.

[0654] At least when viewed from the top view along the orientation of the longitudinal axis 1010, the shape of the deflectable portion is any shape including the primary and secondary dimensions of the deflectable portion. At least when viewed from the top view along the orientation of the longitudinal axis 1010, the shape of the stop portion is any shape including the primary and secondary dimensions of the stop portion.

[0655] Non-limiting examples of deflectable portion shapes and / or stop portion shapes and / or hole object shapes may include: a rectangle, wherein the longer side constitutes a primary dimension and the shorter side constitutes a secondary dimension; an ellipse, having a major axis as the primary dimension and a minor axis as the secondary dimension; and a rectangle, similar to an elongated rectangle having a longer dimension constituting the primary dimension, which is longer than the shorter dimension constituting the secondary dimension; a capsule comprising a rectangular central body with a semi-circular end, the length of the rectangle forming the primary dimension and the diameter of the semicircle forming the secondary dimension; a teardrop or conical oval shape, wherein one end of the shape is wider and constitutes the primary dimension, and tapers to a narrower end constituting the secondary dimension; a parallelogram, wherein the height and width correspond to the secondary dimension and the primary dimension, respectively; and a tautogram or figure-eight shape, which, although symmetrical, may present a longer axis constituting the primary dimension and a shorter axis constituting the secondary dimension.

[0656] exist Figure 46A and Figure 46B In this example, at least when viewed from a top view along the orientation of the longitudinal axis 1010, the deflectable portion 1086 is shaped like an oval, which includes a secondary dimension 1098 of the deflectable portion constituting the short axis of the oval shape and a primary dimension 1096 of the deflectable portion constituting the long axis of the oval shape. At least when viewed from a top view along the orientation of the longitudinal axis 1010, the stop portion 1090 is shaped like an oval, which includes a secondary dimension 1094 of the stop portion constituting the short axis of the oval shape and a primary dimension 1092 of the stop portion constituting the long axis of the oval shape.

[0657] The deflectable portion can be arranged axially spaced from the stop portion along a longitudinal axis. The deflectable portion can be axially positioned above the stop portion, closer to the upper end of the fastening element than the stop portion, or axially positioned below the stop portion. In some embodiments, the deflectable portion can be arranged spaced from the stop portion along an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the deflectable portion and the stop portion can be integrally formed as the same structure. In some embodiments, the stop portion is sized to allow insertion through a hole. For example, the lengths of the primary and secondary dimensions of the stop portion are not greater than the lengths of the corresponding primary and secondary dimensions of the hole.

[0658] In some embodiments, the dimensions of the peripheral walls of the deflectable portion are adapted to fit into the hole. Thus, the length measured along the transverse axis of the deflectable portion between the peripheral walls is substantially equal to or at least not greater than the length of at least one of the primary and secondary dimensions of the hole.

[0659] like Figure 46A and Figure 46BAs can be seen, the deflectable portion 1086 is arranged to be axially spaced along the longitudinal axis 1010 and above the stop portion 1090, closer to the upper end 1049 of the fastening element 1020.

[0660] like Figure 46C As seen in the image, the stop portion 1090 has a peripheral wall 1100 extending along the longitudinal axis 1010 between the upper surface 1102 and the lower surface 1104. The dimensions of the stop portion 1090 are adapted to allow insertion through the hole 1008. The lengths of the primary dimension 1092 and the secondary dimension 1094 of the stop portion are the same as or slightly smaller than the lengths of the corresponding primary dimension 1070 and the secondary dimension 1072 of the hole.

[0661] In some embodiments, the entire upper and / or lower surface of the stop portion, or at least most of it, is orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 1010, i.e., it is substantially flat and parallel to the first reference plane RP1.

[0662] In some embodiments, the entire upper surface 1102 or lower surface of the stop portion 1090, or at least most of it, is orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 1010, i.e., it is substantially flat and parallel to the first reference plane RP1.

[0663] In some embodiments, the upper or lower surface of the stop portion includes a first portion and a second portion, the first portion being closer to the deflectable portion than the second portion. The second portion may be formed with a non-flat portion that is not parallel to the first reference plane RP1, such as including a step or ramp sloping towards the lower surface along the longitudinal axis 1010. Thus, when closer to the latitudinal axis 1052 of the stop portion than to the lateral axis 1050 of the stop portion, the ramp or step is at its highest point along the longitudinal axis 1010.

[0664] The second portion, extending along a plane parallel to or coplanar with the second reference plane RP2, may include an arc of less than 360 degrees. In some embodiments, the arc may extend from 30 to 180 degrees, such as extending to 90 degrees.

[0665] like Figure 46C and Figure 46D As seen in the image, the upper surface 1102 includes a first portion 1110 and a second portion 1112, with the first portion 1110 being closer to the deflectable portion 1086 than the second portion. The second portion 1112 is formed as an inclined plane sloping along the longitudinal axis 1010 toward the lower surface 1104, and the inclined plane extends about two diametrically opposed arcs 1114. The second portion 1112 is at least partially aligned with the tab 1124 along the longitudinal axis 1010.

[0666] Operations on non-planar surfaces are further described in this paper, such as with reference to Figure 49A and Figure 49B .

[0667] The deflectable portion is operable to deflect about a deflection axis in response to a force applied thereto. The deflectable portion may include one deflectable portion, a pair of deflectable portions, or a plurality of deflectable portions, wherein at least one deflectable portion forms a peripheral wall extending along a longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the peripheral wall may be a wall with a protruding bottom surface extending from the shaft to the peripheral wall.

[0668] In some embodiments, the deflectable portion may include at least one tab having a peripheral wall and a bottom surface extending from the bottom end of the peripheral wall toward the shaft, but terminating before the shaft.

[0669] The bottom surface of the protrusion or tab can extend upwards from the bottom end of the peripheral wall toward the shaft and the upper surface.

[0670] The deflectable portion is operable to deflect upwards and / or downwards to a certain degree relative to a deflection reference plane about a deflection axis, allowing the deflectable portion to transition from a deflected state to an undeflected state. The deflection reference plane is transverse to the longitudinal axis and, in some embodiments, parallel to a first reference plane RP1 and a second reference plane RP2. In some embodiments, the deflectable portion is deflectable to such a degree that, when the deflectable portion is deflected about a deflection axis in the deflected state, its bottom surface is positioned parallel to the deflection reference plane, and when the deflectable portion is in the undeflected state, its bottom surface is positioned at an angle relative to the deflection reference plane.

[0671] like Figure 46E and Figure 46F As seen in the image, the deflectable portion 1086 has a peripheral wall 1120 extending along the longitudinal axis 1010. The deflectable portion 1086 includes a pair of tabs 1124, each tab having a peripheral wall 1120 and a bottom surface 1126 extending from the bottom end 1128 of the peripheral wall 1120 toward the shaft 1080 and terminating before the shaft 1080.

[0672] The length measured along the transverse axis of the deflectable portion between the two peripheral walls 1120 is substantially equal to or slightly greater than the length of the main hole dimension 1070.

[0673] The deflectable portion is operable to deflect upwards and / or downwards to a certain extent relative to the deflection reference plane about the deflection axis, allowing the deflectable portion to transition from a deflected state to an undeflected state. The deflection reference plane is transverse to the longitudinal axis 1010 and may be parallel to or coplanar with the second reference plane RP2. The deflectable portion is deflectable to a certain extent such that when the deflectable portion is deflected about the deflection axis in the deflected state, the bottom surface can be positioned parallel to the deflection reference plane, and when the deflectable portion is in the undeflected state, the bottom surface can be positioned at an angle relative to the deflection reference plane.

[0674] like Figures 46A to 50C As seen in the diagram, the deflectable portion 1086 is operable to deflect upwards and / or downwards to a certain extent relative to the deflection reference plane about the deflection axis 1088. This allows the deflectable portion 1086 to transition from a non-deflected state to a deflected state, and vice versa. The deflection reference plane is transverse to the longitudinal axis 1010 and is shown as being coplanar with the second reference plane RP2. The deflectable portion 1086 is deflectable to a certain extent such that when the deflectable portion is deflected about the deflection axis 1088 in the deflected state, the bottom surface 1126 can be positioned parallel to the deflection reference plane, as shown in the diagram. Figure 48A As seen in the image, when the deflectable portion 1086 is in its undeflected state, the bottom surface can be positioned at an angle relative to the deflection reference plane, such as... Figure 46A and Figure 47A I saw it in the middle.

[0675] The deflectable portion may be formed with at least one flange or with an upper flange and a lower flange spaced apart by a gap. The peripheral wall may engage with either of the flanges. In some embodiments, a tab protrudes from the lower surface of either flange. The gap along the longitudinal axis between the upper and lower flanges may be at least the length of the peripheral wall along the longitudinal axis to allow the peripheral wall to deflect upwards as it transitions between an undeflected state and a deflected state.

[0676] The flange may be formed to extend along the transverse axis of the deflectable portion and terminate at the same transverse distance as the peripheral wall. In some embodiments, the distance of the flange along the transverse axis of the deflectable portion from the longitudinal axis is longer or shorter than the distance of the peripheral wall along the transverse axis of the deflectable portion from the longitudinal axis. In embodiments where the distance of the flange along the transverse axis of the deflectable portion is longer than the length of the peripheral wall, including the length of the overhang, the overhang may act as an additional stop portion operable to resist axial movement of the fastening element along a first direction, at least from the hole along the longitudinal axis, in a locked state, thereby preventing downward axial movement of the fastening element in the first direction because the overhang abuts or at least overlaps the upper surface of the object.

[0677] Generally, the locking unit may further include at least one or more additional stop portions. In some embodiments, the additional stop portions are integrally formed with the deflectable portion. The additional stop portions may have a lower surface, and a tab may protrude from the lower surface of the additional stop portions. In some embodiments, at least in the undeflected state, a first distance measured along the transverse axis of the deflectable portion from the longitudinal axis to the end of the additional stop portion is longer than a second distance measured along the transverse axis from the longitudinal axis to the tab wall (i.e., the peripheral wall). The additional stop portions and the tab may deflect about the deflection axis to a certain extent along the longitudinal axis, the extent being at least the length of the tab peripheral wall.

[0678] like Figure 46E As seen in the image, the deflectable portion 1086 has an upper flange 1130 and a lower flange 1132 separated by a gap 1134. A tab 1124 protrudes from the lower surface 1136 of the lower flange 1132.

[0679] The lower flange 1132 is formed to extend along the transverse axis 1060 of the deflectable portion, at least in the undeflected state, and is longer than the distance from the longitudinal axis 1010 to the shoulder 1138 of the peripheral wall 1120 along the transverse axis 1060 of the deflectable portion. Figure 46E The shoulder 1138 acts as an additional stop, operable to resist axial movement of the fastening element 1020 along the first direction at least from the hole 1008 along the longitudinal axis 1010 in the locked state. Since the shoulder 1138 abuts or at least overlaps the upper surface 1004 of the object, it prevents downward axial movement of the fastening element in the first direction 1022.

[0680] The deflectable portion can be formed with elastic properties so that it can deflect about a deflection axis. The deflectable portion may include an elastic reinforcing element operable to facilitate deflection of the deflectable portion. For example, the elastic reinforcing element comprises a material with greater elasticity than the shaft or other portion of the fastening element. In some embodiments, the elastic reinforcing element includes a recess formed in the deflectable portion extending parallel to the deflection axis. The recess can be positioned on the deflectable portion at any suitable location, such as between the tab and the shaft.

[0681] like Figure 51 Ideally, the deflectable portion 1086 is formed to have elastic properties so that it can deflect about the deflection axis. In some embodiments, the elastic enhancer includes a recess 1140 formed in the lower flange 1132 that extends parallel to the deflection axis 1088 between the tab 1124 and the shaft 1080.

[0682] In some embodiments, one or more additional stop portions are provided near the upper end and / or lower end of the fastening element. The additional stop portions may include a shoulder as described herein with reference to shoulder 1138. The length between the largest ends of the additional stop portions, measured parallel to the transverse axis of the deflectable portion, is not less than and is substantially greater than the length of at least one of the primary and secondary dimensions of the hole.

[0683] like Figure 50B As can be seen, the length 1148 measured between the maximum ends of the shoulder 1138 and parallel to the transverse axis 1060 of the deflectable portion is greater than the length of the main hole dimension 1070.

[0684] Additional stop components may include fixing elements such as pins, screws, threaded elements, locking tabs, springs, grooves, etc.

[0685] like Figure 51 As seen in the image, the additional stop portion 1150, configured as an additional lower stop portion 1150, is provided at the lower portion 1152 of the shaft 1080. The additional lower stop portion 1150 includes a flat wall 1154 formed adjacent to a recess 1155 in the lower portion 1152 of the shaft, which forms a frustum circle when viewed from a top view in orientation along the longitudinal axis 1010. The flat wall 1154 is configured to abut the surface of a corresponding oblong-shaped hole 1156 formed in the connector, which includes... Figure 55 The U-shaped center coupler 1158 shown is designed to prevent movement of the shaft 1080, at least in the first direction, when in the locked state. The lower portion 1152 is inserted into the hole 1156, wherein the flat wall 1154 does not contact the wall of the hole 1156. When the fastening element 1020 is rotated to the locked state, the flat wall 1154 is positioned to abut the corresponding wall of the hole at the flat portion 1159, and thus prevents movement of the fastening element, at least in the first direction.

[0686] The locking unit of the fastening element may include a handle positioned along the fastening element and provided to facilitate movement of the fastening element between an unlocked and locked state. It will be understood that the handle is optional. The handle may be axially spaced from the stop portion and the deflectable portion along a longitudinal axis. The handle may be formed in any shape to allow rotation of the fastening element. In some embodiments, the handle has a primary dimension along a handle lateral axis parallel to either the lateral axis of the axial resistance mechanism or the lateral axis of the rotational resistance mechanism, and a secondary dimension smaller than the primary dimension along the deflection axis. The primary dimension of the handle may be aligned or misaligned relative to the secondary dimension of the stop portion.

[0687] The handle may be formed with protrusions operable to allow manual gripping or mechanical gripping by a gripping tool (such as a screwdriver or pliers) for rotating the fastening element between an unlocked and locked state. In some embodiments, at least one protrusion constitutes two protrusions with a gap formed between them, the gap having dimensions compatible with the size of the gripping tool.

[0688] like Figure 46A As seen in the image, the handle 1160 is positioned at the upper end 1049 of the fastening element 1020, axially separated from the stop portion 1090 and the deflectable portion 1086. The handle 1160 is shaped like an oval, having a major dimension 1164 aligned with the secondary dimension 1094 of the stop portion and the major dimension 1096 of the deflectable portion.

[0689] The handle 1160 has two protrusions 1166 operable to allow manual or mechanical gripping by a gripping tool for rotating the fastening element between an unlocked and locked state, and in some embodiments, the reverse. In some embodiments, a gap 1168 is formed between the two protrusions 1166, the gap having dimensions compatible with the size of the gripping tool.

[0690] The fastening element has a housing forming the body of the fastening element. The entire housing or at least a portion thereof may include a smooth surface. In some embodiments, the housing is formed with a plurality of cavities. The cavities may be formed with elongated dimensions extending parallel to the longitudinal axis. Additionally or alternatively, the cavities may be formed with peripheral dimensions extending transversely to the longitudinal axis.

[0691] The cavity can be formed as an intermediate rib, which can have an elongated dimension extending parallel to the longitudinal axis. Additionally or alternatively, the rib can have a peripheral dimension extending transversely to the longitudinal axis.

[0692] The cavity reduces the weight of the fastening element, which enhances its applicability in systems or structures that require buoyancy, such as the floating structures described herein.

[0693] Furthermore, the elongated dimensions of the cavity can be formed transversely to the injection molding direction in which injection molding material is injected to manufacture the fastening element. The injection molding direction can be transverse to the longitudinal axis and even orthogonal to it, such as along the transverse axis. The elongated cavity allows for transverse injection molding across the entire or most of the length of the longitudinal axis along the transverse axis. By guiding the injection molding from the transverse direction, material flow is optimized along the length of the fastening element, thereby ensuring uniform material distribution and reducing the risk of air trapping. This configuration improves the injection molding process by achieving faster fill time, enhanced structural integrity, and ensuring uniform material distribution throughout the fastening element.

[0694] Note that the term "injection molding" can include any manufacturing process in which material is injected into a mold cavity before being sprayed as a finished part, thereby taking on the cavity shape.

[0695] In some implementations, one or more peripheral ribs may be formed about a longitudinal axis, such as at locations where an additional object is operable to apply shear forces to the fastening element. The peripheral ribs provide reinforcement to the fastening element against shear forces applied to it.

[0696] like Figure 52 As seen in the image, the fastening element 1020 has a housing 1170 forming the body of the fastening element 1020. The entire housing 1170, or at least a portion thereof, may include smooth surfaces, such as… Figures 46A to 46F As shown. In some embodiments, the housing 1170 is formed with a plurality of cavities 1172. The cavities 1172 are formed with elongated dimensions extending parallel to the longitudinal axis 1010.

[0697] A cavity 1172 is formed in the middle of an elongated rib 1176, which includes an elongated dimension extending parallel to the longitudinal axis 1010. A peripheral rib 1178 is formed with a peripheral dimension extending transversely to the longitudinal axis 1010 and transversely to the elongated rib 1176.

[0698] The elongated dimension of cavity 1172 can be formed transversely to the injection molding direction 1180, in which injection molding material is injected for manufacturing fastening element 1020. Injection molding direction 1180 is orthogonal to longitudinal axis 1010 and extends along transverse axis 1182. The elongated cavity 1172 allows for transverse injection molding that spans the entire or most of the length of longitudinal axis 1010 along transverse axis 1182.

[0699] Multiple peripheral ribs 1178 are formed around the longitudinal axis 1010 at locations where the attachment is operable to apply shear force in the orientation of the transverse axis 1182 on the fastening element 1020. The peripheral ribs 1178 provide reinforcement to the fastening element 1020 to resist shear forces applied to the fastening element 1020.

[0700] In some implementations, the fastening element can therefore be positioned in at least one of the following states: in an unlocked state, wherein the principal dimension of the axial resistance mechanism is aligned with the principal dimension of the hole and / or the principal dimension of the rotational resistance mechanism is not aligned with the principal dimension of the hole; and in a locked state, wherein the principal dimension of the axial resistance mechanism is not aligned with the principal dimension of the hole and / or the principal dimension of the rotational resistance mechanism is aligned with the principal dimension of the hole.

[0701] In some implementations, when the principal dimensions of the deflectable portion are not aligned with the principal dimensions of the hole in the unlocked state of the fastening element, the deflectable portion can be positioned to deflect in the direction on the upper surface of the object; and when the principal dimensions of the deflectable portion are aligned with the principal dimensions of the hole in the locked state, the hole wall can be pressed into place.

[0702] In some embodiments, the size of the stop portion is adapted to be inserted through the hole in a first direction when the main size of the stop portion is aligned with the main size of the hole in the unlocked state of the fastening element; and the size of the stop portion is adapted to engage with the lower surface of the object when the main size of the stop portion is positioned to be misaligned with the main size of the hole in the locked state.

[0703] The fastening element rotates from an unlocked state to a locked state within the hole about a longitudinal axis, and in the locked state, the fastening element can further lock onto the object. In some embodiments, the rotation from the unlocked state to the locked state is 90 degrees. In some embodiments, the rotation from the unlocked state to the locked state is less than 90 degrees. In some embodiments, the rotation from the unlocked state to the locked state is between 45 degrees and 90 degrees. In some embodiments, the rotation from the unlocked state to the locked state is greater than 90 degrees. In some embodiments, the rotation from the unlocked state to the locked state is less than 45 degrees.

[0704] In a typical, non-limiting example, locking the fastener to the object can be performed as follows: Initially, in a first assembly stage where the unlocked fastener is inserted into the hole along a first direction, the primary and secondary dimensions of the stop portion are aligned with the corresponding primary and secondary dimensions of the hole, thereby allowing the stop portion to be inserted into the hole. The primary and secondary dimensions of the deflectable portion are not aligned with the corresponding primary and secondary dimensions of the hole, and therefore cannot be inserted through the hole. The deflectable portion is positioned on the upper surface of the object in its undeflected state.

[0705] In the second assembly stage, the fastening element is further inserted into the hole along the first direction, such that the stop portion is inserted through the hole. The stop portion is at least partially positioned below and thus presses against the lower surface of the object, thereby causing the upper surface of the object to press against the deflectable portion into a deflected state.

[0706] In the third assembly stage, the fastening element rotates clockwise or counterclockwise. The stop portion remains at least partially below the lower surface of the object, and the deflectable portion is above the upper surface of the object in its deflected state. When the fastening element rotates, the primary and secondary dimensions of the stop portion misalign with the corresponding primary and secondary dimensions of the hole.

[0707] In the fourth assembly stage, rotation stops when the primary and secondary dimensions of the deflectable part are aligned with the corresponding primary and secondary dimensions of the hole. The deflectable part is no longer pressed against the upper surface of the object and thus returns to its undeflected state. The deflectable part now aligned with the hole can be inserted into the hole. The undeflected deflectable part presses against the wall of the hole, thereby preventing the fastening element from rotating within the object.

[0708] The primary and secondary dimensions of the stop portion are misaligned with the primary and secondary dimensions of the corresponding hole, causing the overlapping surface of the stop portion to overlap the corresponding surface of the object. The overlapping surface is positioned below the lower surface of the object, either in direct contact with or at a distance from the lower surface, thereby preventing axial movement of the fastening element at least in the second direction, thus locking the fastening element until the object is in a locked state. Locking is also performed by pressing the rotational resistance mechanism against the wall of the hole, thereby preventing the fastening element from rotating within the object.

[0709] In some implementations, axial resistance mechanisms and rotary resistance mechanisms allow fastening elements to be locked into the object without screws.

[0710] In some implementations, removal of the fastening element from the object can be performed by sometimes forcefully rotating the fastening element to release the deflectable portion from the hole wall and by axially lifting the fastening element away from the hole.

[0711] During operation, locking the fastening element to the object can be performed in several stages, such as... Figures 47A to 50C As shown in the example.

[0712] Figure 47A The fastening element is shown before being inserted into the hole 1008 of the object 1002.

[0713] Figure 47B and Figure 47CThe diagram illustrates a first assembly stage in which a fastening element 1020 in an unlocked state is inserted into a hole 1008 in a first direction 1022. The primary dimension 1092 and secondary dimension 1094 of the stop portion are aligned with the corresponding primary dimension 1070 and secondary dimension 1072 of the hole, as shown by dashed lines, thereby allowing the stop portion 1090 to be inserted into the hole 1008. The primary dimension 1096 of the deflectable portion is not aligned with the primary dimension 1070 of the hole, but is aligned with the secondary dimension 1072 of the hole. Similarly, the secondary dimension 1098 of the deflectable portion is not aligned with the secondary dimension 1072 of the hole, but is aligned with the primary dimension 1070 of the hole, and therefore cannot be inserted through the hole 1008. The deflectable portion 1086 is positioned on the upper surface 1004 of the object in its undeflected state such that contact between the upper surface 1004 of the object and the tab 1124 is at the bottom end 1128 of the tab. The bottom surface 1126 of the tab is positioned relative to and tilted or angled with respect to the deflection reference plane, which is... Figure 46A The second reference plane RP2 shown is coplanar.

[0714] Figure 48A and Figure 48B The second assembly stage is illustrated. The fastening element 1020 is further inserted into the hole 1008 along the first direction 1022, such that the stop portion 1090 is inserted through the hole 1008. The stop portion 1090 is at least partially positioned below the lower surface 1006 of the object 1002 and thus presses against the lower surface 1006, thereby causing the upper surface 1104 of the object to press against the deflectable portion 1086. This causes the tab 1124 to deflect upwards about the deflection axis 1088 to the deflected state. The bottom surface 1126 of the tab is substantially parallel to the deflection reference plane.

[0715] Figure 49A and Figure 49B The third assembly stage is illustrated. The fastening element 1020 rotates clockwise or counterclockwise to transition from an unlocked state to a locked state. The stop portion 1090 remains at least partially below the lower surface 1006 of the object 1002, and the deflectable portion 1086 is above the upper surface 1004 of the object 1002 in its deflected state. When the fastening element 1020 rotates, the primary dimension 1096 of the deflectable portion is misaligned with the primary dimension 1070 of the hole and with the secondary dimension 1072 of the hole. Similarly, the secondary dimension 1098 of the deflectable portion is misaligned with the secondary dimension 1072 of the hole and with the primary dimension 1070 of the hole. Figures 46A to 50CIn the example shown, the second portion 1112 of the stop is formed with a slope and therefore does not directly contact the second portion 1112 and the bottom surface 1006 of the object 1002. Therefore, the second portion 1112 does not apply pressure to the bottom surface 1004 of the object 1002. Consequently, the upper surface 1004 of the object 1002 applies less pressure to the tab 1124. The tab is at least partially free from pressure created by the contact between the second portion 1112 of the stop and the lower surface 1006 of the object 1002, resulting in a more gradual upward deflection of the tab than if the second portion 1124 were formed as a flat surface. In an embodiment where the second portion 1112 is omitted and the entire upper surface of the stop is flat, contact and friction are established between the entire upper surface of the stop and the bottom surface of the object. During rotation of the fastening element, this friction results in a significant amount of pressure being applied to the tab, leading to rapid deflection of the tab.

[0716] Figures 50A to 50C The fourth assembly stage is shown. Rotation stops when the secondary dimension 1098 of the deflectable part aligns with the secondary dimension 1072 of the hole and the primary dimension 1096 of the deflectable part aligns with the primary dimension 1070 of the hole. The deflectable part 1086 is no longer pressed against the upper surface 1004 of the object 1002 and thus returns to its undeflected state. The deflectable part now aligned with the hole can be inserted into the hole. The peripheral wall 1120 of the tab 1124 of the undeflected deflectable part 1086 presses against the wall 1009 of the hole 1008, thereby preventing the fastening element from rotating within the object.

[0717] The primary dimension 1092 and secondary dimension 1094 of the stop portion are misaligned with the primary dimension 1070 and secondary dimension 1072 of the corresponding hole, causing the overlapping surface 1150 of the stop portion 1090 to overlap the corresponding surface 1152 of the object 1102. The overlapping surface 1150 is positioned below the lower surface 1006 of the object 1002, either in direct contact with the lower surface or at a certain distance from it, thereby preventing axial movement of the fastening element 1020 at least in the second direction 1028, thus locking the fastening element 1020 to the object 1002 into a locked state.

[0718] As described herein, in some embodiments, the fastening element may include an additional stop portion, such as shoulder 1138.

[0719] In some embodiments, the deflectable portion is positioned axially away from the upper end along the fastening element, the axial distance having a length for accommodating an additional object. This additional object may include another plate or an object of any shape and purpose. In a non-limiting example, the additional object may be a portion of the float, such as the flat upper portion of the float, such as... Figure 1A As shown.

[0720] like Figure 46E As shown, the deflectable portion 1086 is positioned along the fastening element 1020 away from the upper end, at an axial distance from the gap 1132 formed between the upper flange 1130 and the lower flange 1132. The gap 1132 has a length for accommodating additional objects. Figure 53 The board shown is 1160.

[0721] The floating structure may include the fastening arrangement 1000 described herein. The fastening arrangement 1000 can serve as a float interconnection arrangement of the floating structure for connecting a first float to a second float, the first float having an upper surface, a lower surface, and a first hole extending therebetween along a longitudinal axis. The second float has a second hole operatively interconnected with the first float. In a non-limiting example, the floating structure is as referenced herein. Figures 1A to 34 and Figures 54A to 54G The first float and / or the second float may include those described herein. Figures 1A to 34 and Figures 54A to 54G Any of the floats described. The first hole is formed with secondary hole dimensions and primary hole dimensions, as referenced herein. Figures 44 to 53 Described.

[0722] The first and second floats can be directly connected or connected via a connector, which may include the connectors described herein. Figures 1A to 34 and Figures 54A to 55 Any of the connectors described.

[0723] like Figures 54A to 54G As seen in the example, the floating structure includes Figure 54C The float interconnection arrangement 1200 is shown. The float interconnection arrangement 1200 includes a first float 1202, which can constitute a first object and can include any of the floats having a protrusion 1206. The floating structure can include a plurality of holes. The protrusion 1206 has at least a first hole 1208, which is shaped into an oval shape, such as... Figure 54A As shown. The second object may include one or more of a second float 1210 having a second float hole 1212 and a connector 1220 having a second connector hole 1222. The second hole may be formed in a circular shape that conforms to the shape of the shaft of the fastening element, such as... Figure 54B As shown. Figure 55 Another exemplary connector second hole is shown, wherein connector 1158 includes connector second hole 1156, which may be shaped to have a flat portion 1159.

[0724] The connecting mechanism is operable to connect the connector to the second float 1210, such as Figure 54CAs shown. The connection mechanism can include any form for connecting the connector to the second float. The connection mechanism includes a connector connection portion formed on the connector that connects to a corresponding second float connection portion formed on the second float. Figure 54B and Figure 54C In the example shown, the connector connection portion 1230 typically includes a cavity 1232 configured to receive a corresponding second float connection portion formed as a protrusion 1234, similar to the protrusion 1238 shown on the first float 1202. The protrusion 1234 has a second float hole 1212 formed thereon.

[0725] As described with reference to the fastening arrangement 1000 herein, the connection between the first float and the second float via a connector can be established by the fastening element 1020 described herein. The assembly of the fastening element with the first object constituted herein by the first float is similar to that described herein. Figures 47A to 50C Perform as described.

[0726] Figure 54D and Figure 54E The illustration shows a first assembly stage in which the unlocked fastening element 1020 is inserted into the first hole 1208 in the first direction 1022 and into the float second hole 1212 and the connector second hole 1222. Figure 47B and Figure 47C As shown, the primary dimension 1092 and secondary dimension 1094 of the stop portion are aligned with the corresponding primary and secondary dimensions of the first hole constituting the primary dimension 1070 and secondary dimension 1072, thereby allowing the stop portion 1090 to be inserted into the hole 1208. Figure 47B and Figure 47C As described and shown, the primary dimension 1096 of the deflectable portion is misaligned with the primary dimension 1070 of the hole, but aligned with the secondary dimension 1072 of the hole. Similarly, the secondary dimension 1098 of the deflectable portion is misaligned with the secondary dimension 1072 of the hole, but aligned with the primary dimension 1070 of the hole, and therefore cannot be inserted through the hole 1208. The deflectable portion 1086 is positioned on the upper surface 1244 of the first float 1202 in its undeflected state, such that the contact between the upper surface 1244 of the first float and the tab 1124 is at the bottom end 1128 of the tab. The bottom surface 1126 of the tab is positioned relative to a deflection reference plane and is tilted or angled, which is aligned with... Figure 46A The second reference plane RP2 shown is coplanar.

[0727] The second assembly stage, such as Figure 48A and Figure 48B Show and describe.

[0728] Figure 54FThe third assembly stage is shown. The fastening element 1020 rotates clockwise or counterclockwise to transition from an unlocked state to a locked state. The stop portion 1090 remains at least partially below the lower surface 1246 of the first float 1202, and the deflectable portion 1086, in its deflected state, is above the upper surface 1244 of the first float 1202. When the fastening element 1020 rotates, the primary dimension 1096 of the deflectable portion is misaligned with the primary dimension 1070 of the hole and with the secondary dimension 1072 of the hole. Similarly, the secondary dimension 1098 of the deflectable portion is misaligned with the secondary dimension 1072 of the hole and with the primary dimension 1070 of the hole, as shown. Figure 49A and Figure 49B As shown and described in the text.

[0729] Figure 54G The fourth assembly stage is shown. Rotation stops when the secondary dimension 1098 of the deflectable part is aligned with the secondary dimension 1072 of the hole and the primary dimension 1096 of the deflectable part is aligned with the primary dimension 1070 of the hole. Figures 50A to 50C As described and shown in the diagram. The deflectable portion 1086 is no longer pressed against the upper surface 1244 and thus returns to its undeflected state. The deflectable portion, now aligned with the first hole 1208, can now be inserted into the first hole 1208. The peripheral wall 1120 of the tab 1124 of the undeflected deflectable portion 1086 presses against the wall 1009 of the first hole 1208, as described and shown in the diagram. Figures 50A to 50C As described and shown, this prevents the fastening element from rotating within the object.

[0730] The primary dimension 1092 and secondary dimension 1094 of the stop portion are misaligned with the primary dimension 1070 and secondary dimension 1072 of the corresponding holes, causing the overlapping surface of the stop portion 1090 to overlap the corresponding surface of the first float 1202. The overlapping surface is positioned below the lower surface 1246, either in direct contact with it or at a certain distance from it, thereby preventing axial movement of the fastening element 1020 at least in the second direction 1028, thus locking the fastening element 1020 to the first float into a locked state. Since the fastening element is inserted into the second float hole 1212 and the second connector hole 1222, the locking of the fastening element 1020 to the first float fixes the fastening element 1020 in the second float hole 1212 and the second connector hole 1222, thereby connecting the first float to the second float.

[0731] The floating structure is stabilized by fastening elements including axial drag mechanisms and rotational drag mechanisms. Due to wind and wave forces applied to the floating structure at many unpredictable angles or directions, the floating structure is subjected to axial forces in either or both of the first and second directions, and further to rotational forces, thereby providing a robust and solid floating structure.

[0732] In some implementations, the fastening element is formed with peripheral ribs to resist shear forces applied to the fastening element. For example, shear forces may be applied at the location where the hole in the fastening element contacts the fastening element.

[0733] exist Figures 54A to 54G In the example shown, the fastening element 1020 is inserted into and locked into the holes of the first hole 1208 of the first float, the second float hole 1212 of the second float 1210, and the second connector hole 1222 of the connector 1220, thereby applying a shear force to the fastening element at the location where it is inserted into these holes. Figure 52 As described and shown, the peripheral ribs 1178 provide reinforcement to the fastening element 1020 to resist shear forces applied to the fastening element 1020.

[0734] While various embodiments have been described herein, it should be understood that they are presented by way of example only and not by way of limitation. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the utility model. Therefore, the scope of this specification should not be limited to the embodiments described and depicted herein.

[0735] Throughout the specification and the following claims, unless the context otherwise requires, the word “comprise” and its variations, such as “comprises” and “comprising”, shall be understood to imply inclusion of the said integer or step or group of integers or steps, but not to exclude any other integer or step or group of integers or steps.

[0736] References to any prior publications (or information derived therefrom) or any known matters in this specification are not and should not be construed as endorsement or acknowledgment or in any way imply that such prior publications (or information derived therefrom) or known matters constitute part of the general knowledge in the field of effort covered by this specification.

Claims

1. A floating photovoltaic (PV) arrangement for supporting at least one PV module having at least one support area, the floating photovoltaic arrangement comprising: First slender float; and A second elongated float, the second elongated float having an end that interconnects with the side of the first elongated float, The feature is that at least one of the floats includes at least one mounting position, the at least one mounting position being used to support the PV module via the at least one support region of the PV module.

2. The floating photovoltaic arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that... The first elongated float includes a spaced-apart first mounting position and a second mounting position for supporting the PV module at corresponding first and second support areas of the PV module.

3. The floating photovoltaic arrangement according to claim 2, characterized in that... The second elongated float includes a third mounting position for supporting the PV module at a third support region of the PV module.

4. The floating photovoltaic arrangement according to claim 3, characterized in that: The first side of the PV module includes the first support area and the second support area; and The second side of the PV module includes the third support area.

5. The floating photovoltaic arrangement according to claim 4, characterized in that... The first support region, the second support region, and the third support region define the corresponding vertices of the imaginary triangle shape.

6. The floating photovoltaic arrangement according to claim 5, characterized in that... The triangle is in the form of an isosceles triangle, wherein the first support region and the second support region define the base of the isosceles triangle.

7. The floating photovoltaic arrangement according to claim 4, characterized in that... The floating photovoltaic arrangement further includes corresponding mounting components for interconnecting the at least one support region of the PV module to the at least one mounting location.

8. The floating photovoltaic arrangement according to claim 7, characterized in that... The floating photovoltaic arrangement further includes a first mounting member and a second mounting member for interconnecting the first support region and the second support region of the PV module to the first mounting position and the second mounting position, respectively.

9. The floating photovoltaic arrangement according to claim 8, characterized in that... The floating photovoltaic arrangement further includes a third mounting component for interconnecting the third support region of the PV module to the third mounting location.

10. The floating photovoltaic arrangement according to claim 9, characterized in that... Each mounting piece has the same cross-sectional shape.

11. The floating photovoltaic arrangement according to claim 9, characterized in that... The first mounting member and the second mounting member have a first length, and the third mounting member has a second length, the second length being greater than the first length.

12. The floating photovoltaic arrangement according to claim 9, characterized in that... Each installation component includes: The forward portion, configured to be fixed to a corresponding support area of ​​the PV module; and The rear portion is configured to be installed at a corresponding installation location.

13. The floating photovoltaic arrangement according to claim 12, characterized in that... The forward portion of each mounting component includes an opening for receiving a corresponding support area of ​​the PV module, each opening having: The upper jaw is arranged to be at least partially located above the frame of the PV module; and The lower jaws are arranged to be at least partially located below the PV module.

14. The floating photovoltaic arrangement according to claim 12, characterized in that... The corresponding rearward portions of the first mounting component and the second mounting component can be installed at the first mounting position and the second mounting position, respectively.

15. The floating photovoltaic arrangement according to claim 9, characterized in that... The mounting element is configured to hold the PV module in an inclined position, thereby raising the second side of the PV module above the first side.

16. The floating photovoltaic arrangement according to claim 3, characterized in that... The floating photovoltaic arrangement further includes a lifter fixed to the at least one installation location, the lifter being operable to lift the PV module at the at least one support area of ​​the PV module.

17. The floating photovoltaic arrangement according to claim 16, characterized in that... The lifter includes a third mounting position for supporting the PV module at the third support region of the PV module.

18. The floating photovoltaic arrangement according to claim 16, characterized in that... The lifter is in the form of a third float, which is inverted such that the third mounting position of the third float is coupled to the second elongated float.

19. The floating photovoltaic arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that: The PV module is rectangular; The first elongated float is substantially aligned with the first side of the PV module; and The second elongated float is approximately perpendicular to the first elongated float.

20. The floating photovoltaic arrangement according to claim 18, characterized in that... The third float is parallel to the first slender float.

21. The floating photovoltaic arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that... The floating photovoltaic arrangement further includes opposing PV modules and opposing first elongated floats, each of which is arranged to mirror the PV module and the first elongated float, wherein the respective sides of adjacent PV modules are interconnected to the second elongated float.

22. The floating photovoltaic arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that... The floating photovoltaic arrangement further includes a connector for interconnecting the end of the first elongated float to the side of the second elongated float, the connector comprising: The first part, the first part being used to seal the opening of the first elongated float; and The second part has at least one connecting element that protrudes from the second part toward the side of the second elongated float and is adapted to be connected to the second elongated float.

23. The floating photovoltaic arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that... The floating photovoltaic arrangement is used to connect a first elongated float to a second elongated float via a connector. The first elongated float has an upper surface, a lower surface, and a first hole extending along a longitudinal axis between the upper surface and the lower surface. The connector has a second hole operable to interconnect with the first elongated float. The float interconnection arrangement includes: The first slender float; A fastening element, insertable in at least the first hole and the second hole along the longitudinal axis in a first direction and lockable in a locked state within the first elongated float and the second elongated float, the fastening element comprising: An axial resistance mechanism operable in the locked state to resist axial movement of the fastening element along a second direction opposite to the first direction, at least from the first hole along the longitudinal axis; and A rotary resistance mechanism operable to resist rotational movement of the fastening element about the longitudinal axis in the first hole in the locked state.

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