FLOATING SOLAR SYSTEM

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a floating solar installation of modular design. The invention also relates to a method of manufacturing such an installation, a method of assembling such an installation, and a method of maintaining such an installation. Technical field

[0002] This disclosure relates to solar installations of modular design, in particular those forming a floating network, supporting photovoltaic panels, and more particularly those of large dimensions. Prior art

[0003] Such modular design installations are known, for example, from document WO201213998 (A2), or WO 2015092237 (A1) of the present Applicant. These technologies allow the design of large-scale photovoltaic installations, ranging from a few hundred kilowatts to several tens of megawatts, or even more.

[0004] In both cases, the modular components of the installation according to WO 201213998 (A2), WO 2015092237 (A1) are essentially plastic components, obtained by molding, easily at controlled cost. Due to the modular design, the floating photovoltaic panel support devices are advantageously of limited weight and size, configured to be assembled from the edge of the bank, without special lifting tools such as a crane for their launching, the network of floating support devices typically being pushed on the water, by human power, as it is assembled.

[0005] Significantly, and according to the Applicant's findings, the buoyancy of such installations is sized not only to take the vertical load of the components that compose it, but even more so to take the load of one or more men, moving on the network in order to carry out maintenance on the installation. Thus, and as they are designed and operated today, these installations conventionally have maintenance aisles for operators between the different rows of photovoltaic panels.

[0006] According to the Applicant's findings, the design of such modular solar installations does not allow for a reduction in material costs in that it requires, for proper maintenance, oversizing the buoyancy of the solar installation compared to what would be strictly necessary physically to take up the vertical load of the photovoltaic panels, or even the inverters and electrical cables, and the components that make up the floating solar installation.

[0007] Document US2017 / 0033732A1 describes such a modular state of the art mentioned above, and criticizes their excessive sensitivity to rolling, pitching, yaw, sensitivity which would be due, according to this prior art, to the fact that the structures are mechanically connected to each other at water level.

[0008] The solution proposed by this document US2017 / 0033732A1 comprises pairs of anchor lines, each connected to a dead body on the bottom and to a buoy at its other end, ensuring the tensioning of an intermediate, fully submerged connection element, in the form of a taut cable extending below the water level, in a generally horizontal manner.

[0009] The floating support devices for photovoltaic panels each comprise a self-supporting frame on which a plurality of floats are secured, in the front and rear parts of the device.

[0010] This framework extends: in the upper part of the floats to ensure the support and the inclination of the panel in the lower part of the floats for the support of a submerged wing, intended to limit the pitching and rolling movements.

[0011] Hooks are provided in the lower part of the frame, to allow the attachment of the floating support devices to the taut cable, which extends generally horizontally, submerged under the frames of different floating support devices.

[0012] Such a design thus makes it possible to limit the sensitivity of the floating support devices to rolling, pitching and yaw by a cable kept under tension, extending submerged and horizontally, and fixed to the lower part of the floating support devices supporting the panel, to hooks in the lower part of the frame of the devices.

[0013] The maintenance of the panels is carried out by boat, which can be temporarily linked to the floating support devices by means of rods which are removably fixed to the fixing brackets of the floating support device.

[0014] The floating solar installation according to US2017 / 0033732A1 has a structure configured to work only in tension, following the direction of taut cables and relies on the maintenance of the floating support devices by this structure in tension, including said cables in tension, substantially horizontal, submerged and fixed to hooks in the lower part of the frames of the devices. This requires each cable to be tensioned by their two ends to dead bodies. According to the inventors' findings, this structure with cables in tension is particularly difficult to implement, and does not allow a large number of floating support devices for photovoltaic panels to be maintained.In particular, and unlike the aforementioned modular installations, it is not possible to assemble the network of floats from the bank, in the dry, and in both directions of space, then to push the structure as it is assembled onto the ground because it has no resistance to compression, following the direction of the cables.

[0015] Document US2018 / 001975 A1 also discloses the formation of a floating solar installation of modular design comprising floating support devices each comprising a float, a mechanical means for fixing a photovoltaic panel on the float.

[0016] Notably, U-shaped channel-shaped struts connect two rows of floating panel support devices, each strut being submerged and creating a waterway through the U-shaped struts. A shallow-draft maintenance platform allows for maintenance of the solar installation, while the floats of the maintenance platform travel along the waterways.

[0017] The structure of the network of this installation thus comprises said basic floats supporting photovoltaic panels, which extend for the most part above the water level, and the channel-shaped, U-shaped spacers, such a floating structure being anchored to the bottom by the edges of the network, typically by dead bodies. In a notable manner, this structure must resist the compressive and tensile forces, generated in reaction to environmental conditions, such as for example swell or wind.According to the inventors' findings, the structural strength and sensitivity to deformation under stress (during a tensile or compressive force) of such a structure is poor, in particular due to the U-shaped struts which will clearly tend to deform, in particular to buckle easily, when these struts are subjected to compression or tension, unless additional floating mechanical connections are provided, described in paragraph 46 and illustrated in figures 13A and 13B of prior art US2018 / 0001975. Such an additional connection is provided to slide at its ends with two vertical branches of the U, and is constrained in the high position by the buoyancy of the connection. It is submersible in the retracted, low position to allow the passage of a float from a maintenance platform.

[0018] As clearly visible from the figure 12of this prior art US2018 / 0001975 A1 the structure ensuring the transmission of the network forces includes not only the floats of the floating devices supporting the panels, substantially at the water level (for the most part not submerged) and the channel connections, U-shaped (for the most part submerged). In other words, such a network structure according to US2018 / 0001975 A1 extends alternately, above the surface of the water with its floats, then below the floats, with the U-shaped connections, and so on.

[0019] According to the Applicant's findings, due to this structure, it becomes difficult to assemble the network of floats from the bank and in both directions of space, then to push the structure as it is assembled from the bank because it includes U-shaped connections which extend outwards under the floats which cannot then rest on the ground, and because the protruding connections would cause significant friction preventing launching by simply sliding on the ground.

[0020] Also known from document WO 2014 / 136107 is a floating solar installation, comprising a lattice of flexible ropes extending in tension, internally to a peripheral, rigid, possibly articulated structure, the flexible ropes of the lattice extending generally horizontally, above the water level. The flexible ropes form a plurality of polygonal cells having nodes at their vertices. A plurality of independent floating solar modules are arranged in the cells and fixed directly or indirectly to the nodes.

[0021] Some of the nodes feature rigid U- or V-shaped connections, partially submerged, allowing the creation of a waterway between two rows of modules. The tensioned ropes are coupled to the ends of the U, above the water, while the middle part of the U is submerged. The waterways created allow the circulation of a maintenance unit comprising two hulls and a gangway.

[0022] According to the inventors' findings, and like document US2017 / 0033732A1, WO 2014 / 136106 requires for its implementation the tensioning of ropes, and more particularly the constitution of a lattice of flexible ropes, with necessarily tensioning on a peripheral structure. According to the inventor's findings, such a tensioned rope lattice is particularly difficult to implement.

[0023] Similar to US2018 / 0001975 A1, WO 2014 / 136106 uses U-shaped connections for the creation of waterways that do not extend in the horizontal plane of the rope lattice, but below the plane of the rope lattice to form the waterways. The structural (tension) forces are distributed alternately, in the horizontal plane of the rope lattice, then in the U-shaped sections, below the horizontal plane, and therefore not contained in the horizontal plane, which is not ideal in terms of force transmission. Similar to US2018 / 0001975 A1, the use of partially submerged U-shaped connections for the creation of waterways is not ideal because such U-shaped connections are too sensitive to deformation in the horizontal plane, and according to the inventors' findings. Summary

[0024] The invention remedies this situation.

[0025] More particularly, the aim of the present invention is to propose an installation, the modular design of which makes it possible to easily and quickly assemble said installation, from the bank, and in particular without limitation without requiring lifting means for its launching, and the design of which makes it possible to carry out maintenance, without requiring oversizing the buoyancy of the installation, and in particular by comparison with known installations for example from document WO201213998 (A2) or from document WO 2015092237 (A1) where the implementation of maintenance requires the buoyancy of the installation to take into account the taking up of the load of one or more operators carrying out the maintenance.

[0026] More particularly, at least according to one embodiment, the aim of the present invention is to propose an installation, the modular design of which allows maintenance to be carried out, with the creation of waterways made of photovoltaic panels, and of a design such that it allows rapid assembly of these modules, while being resistant, and not very sensitive to deformation, during swell and wind conditions, with an improved network structure compared to that disclosed by document US2018 / 0001975 A1.

[0027] Another aim of the present invention is to propose, at least according to one embodiment, such an installation whose modules which compose it are, in the disassembled state, easily transportable and storable, in particular due to their weight and their limited size.

[0028] Another aim of the present invention is to propose an installation provided with a service module specifically designed for the implementation of maintenance.

[0029] Other purposes and advantages will appear from the following description, which is given for information purposes only and is not intended to limit it.

[0030] Also, the present invention relates to a floating solar installation supporting photovoltaic panels, resulting from the assembly of structural modules and floating modules on a body of water, forming a floating network supporting photovoltaic panels, including: a first row of photovoltaic panels, a second row of photovoltaic panels, and in which the first row of photovoltaic panels and the second row of photovoltaic panels extend in the same longitudinal direction and are spaced apart in the transverse direction, perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, and in which at least said structural modules ensuring the spacing between the first row of photovoltaic panels and the second row of photovoltaic panels are configured to be submerged, allowing the circulation of a floating service unit along a waterway above said structural modules, said structure of the network, resulting from the assembly of said structural modules, rigid or semi-rigid, being configured to work in the two directions substantially of the horizontal plane of the structure by resisting the compressive forces and the tensile forces to which said structure of the network is subjected.

[0031] According to the present invention, the structure of the network extends substantially along the horizontal plane, the structure being able to comprise said assembly of the structural modules forming a lattice of beams with a polygonal mesh extending along the horizontal plane, the beams of the lattice repeating the polygonal pattern of the mesh, providing days configured to cool the photovoltaic panels located above the structure of the network, the lattice of beams being configured to be permanently submerged, or alternatively at least locally submerged under the vertical load of the service unit, and in which vertical supports are subjected to the structural modules in particular secured to the beams of the lattice, or even to the float modules, to ensure the vertical bracing of the photovoltaic panels relative to the horizontal plane forming the structure of the network in such a way that the compression / tension forces pass into the structural modules,being contained in said horizontal plane of said network structure. Preferably, the network structure has a planar base, said network structure being configured to be substantially planar when resting on a planar surface.,

[0032] The lattice can, for example, be triangular, diamond-shaped, or hexagonal (honeycomb) meshed. The lattice can be complete or incomplete, with some of the beams missing, preferably regularly.

[0033] The beams of the lattice can be "long" beams, meaning that the beams are larger than the polygonal pattern of the mesh (in particular the sides of the pattern, for example, triangular), or "short" beams, with dimensions corresponding to the lengths of the sides of the polygon of the polygonal pattern of the lattice mesh.

[0034] When "short" beams are used, connectors can be used to connect beams belonging to the same structural module, the beams then being placed end-to-end at the vertices of the polygonal pattern. These connectors can, at least for some, have flexible projecting ears allowing the assembly between the structural modules to form the lattice of the structure. These flexible projecting ears can allow the lattice structure to deform outside the horizontal plane formed by the structure, in particular at the vertices of the polygon of the patterns, in particular under the vertical load of the service unit.

[0035] When the beams of the lattice are "long" beams, namely the beams are larger than the polygonal (in particular triangular) pattern of the mesh, it may be possible, at least according to one embodiment, to obtain a local sinking of the structure by the dimensioning of the beams, which may then have a deflection under the vertical load of the operator (or of the maintenance unit) so that the structure sinks locally into the water at the level of the vertical load, and then the portion of the lattice structure at a distance from the load remains out of the water.

[0036] The structure of the network, which extends along the horizontal plane, can be supported on the horizontal surface, directly in particular by the lattice beams, or even by means of the floating modules, in particular in the case where they are separate from the structural modules.

[0037] According to one embodiment, the buoyancy of the solar installation is configured so that the structure of the network, formed by the polygonal mesh beam lattice (extending along the horizontal plane) is permanently fully submerged with a height of water above the structure modules so as to form a navigable channel between the first row of photovoltaic panels and the second row of photovoltaic panels, extending along the longitudinal direction. For this purpose, the structure modules extending along the horizontal plane can be secured below the float modules, in order to keep the structure of the network (namely the polygonal mesh lattice) permanently fully submerged. In all cases, the PV photovoltaic panels of the installation are kept out of the water by the vertical supports which extend from the beams of the polygonal mesh lattice, or even from the float modules.

[0038] Alternatively, the buoyancy of the installation is configured so that: the structure of the network, formed by the lattice of polygonal mesh beams extending along the horizontal plane is at water level when the structure of the network is not subjected to a (substantial) vertical load other than that of the photovoltaic panels, said structural modules are immersed, at least locally, under the vertical load of a service unit bearing vertically on the structure of the network, the photovoltaic panels of the installation then being kept out of the water by the vertical supports during local sinking by the service unit.

[0039] According to this embodiment, the buoyancy of the installation is preferably insufficient for an operator, male or female, weighing between 60 kg and 150 kg to be able to walk on the beams of the lattice structure without having their feet in the water due to the local sinking of the structure. In other words, when an operator weighing between 60 kg and 150 kg walks on the network structure (namely the polygonal mesh lattice), it sinks into the water and the operator finds himself with his feet in the water.

[0040] According to an advantageous embodiment, the structure of the network resulting from the assembly of the structural modules forms a lattice with a polygonal mesh and in particular a triangular mesh, in particular equilateral or isosceles, a diamond mesh or even a hexagonal (honeycomb) mesh.

[0041] According to one embodiment, the structure of the network results from the assembly of self-supporting floating support devices, each (or at least most) supporting a photovoltaic panel, or even a plurality of photovoltaic panels, such as two or three, said floating support devices comprising said structural modules, each structural module of the floating support devices supporting the photovoltaic panel, or even the plurality of photovoltaic panels.

[0042] In particular, the structural module of each floating support device extends in a protruding manner relative to the photovoltaic panel, in the transverse direction, so as to create the waterway between the first row of photovoltaic panels and the second row of photovoltaic panels.

[0043] According to one embodiment, the structural module of each floating support device consists of a pattern of the polygonal mesh lattice, forming a polygon, for example a triangle, in particular isosceles or equilateral, or even a rhombus, connecting means ensuring the fixing between them of the structural modules of the floating support devices, in particular by the vertices of the polygonal patterns of the mesh.

[0044] According to one embodiment, the structural module comprises tubes, respectively forming the sides of the polygon of the polygonal pattern, the tubes being assembled together by connections at the vertices of the polygon. The connections form angle connections and can also be tubular.

[0045] According to one embodiment, the connecting means ensuring the fixing between them of the structural modules of the devices comprising projecting ears of the connectors, several ears being placed opposite each other and crossed by a locking member to ensure the fixing between said floating support devices.

[0046] In particular, the tubes may form several envelopes enclosing airtightly, or may be filled with a material of lower density than water. A seal may be obtained by watertight welding between the fittings and the tubes, particularly when the tubes are filled with air.

[0047] In particular, it may be an induction weld, obtained by subjecting to electromagnetic radiation a metallized ring, provided intermediate between an internal / external surface of the fitting and an external / internal surface of the tube, the tube and the fitting both being made of plastic. When subjected to electromagnetic radiation, the metallized ring is heated to a temperature higher than the melting temperature of the plastic of the fitting and the tube, causing them to weld between the plastic of the fitting and that of the tube. The ring is preferably perforated, for example regularly perforated or meshed, to promote intimate contact of the plastic of the external / internal surface of the tube with the plastic of the internal / external surface of the fitting through the perforations.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the network structure (namely the polygonal mesh trellis) is at water height, not entirely permanently submerged, under the load of the photovoltaic panels, and is configured to be submerged temporarily, and locally under the vertical load of the maintenance unit, by deformation of the flexible ears.

[0049] According to another embodiment, the locking members passing through the ears are integral, in whole or in part, with the float modules positioned above the structure of the network formed from the assembly of structure modules in order to keep the structure of the network (the polygonal mesh trellis) permanently submerged.

[0050] According to one embodiment, the polygonal pattern of the lattice is an N-sided polygon, N separate structural modules being assembled by their ends respectively forming the sides of the polygon of the polygonal pattern lattice. The structural modules (namely the “short” beams) may be assembled by ears at their ends facing each other and crossed by locking members.

[0051] According to one embodiment, the float modules are subject to all or part of the structural modules, the latter being non-floating in themselves. For example, the structure of the network resulting from the assembly of the structural modules is non-floating in itself, the buoyancy of the installation ensured by said float modules provided as elements separate from the structural modules, and in which the photovoltaic panels at least of the first row of photovoltaic panels and / or of the second row of panels are integral with the float modules, via the vertical supports directly connecting the photovoltaic panels and the float module.

[0052] Alternatively, the structural modules combine the function of floating modules, and can thus be made up of the same elements, namely tubular beams, or even connections, which can contain a volume of air of sealed material or even contain a material with a density lower than water.

[0053] According to the present disclosure, the vertical supports are secured to the structural modules (or float modules) to ensure the vertical bracing of the photovoltaic panels relative to the horizontal plane forming the structure of the network. For example, the structural modules and the vertical supports are assembled by a coupling rib / coupling groove pair. When the beams of the lattice are tubes, the tubes can typically be obtained by extrusion, with possibly obtaining the coupling rib / coupling groove during extrusion, by an extrusion die having the design of the rib / groove.

[0054] According to one embodiment, the beams of the lattice are tubes of length corresponding to the sides of the polygonal pattern of the lattice and assembled together by connections at the vertices of the polygonal pattern.

[0055] In particular, the float modules can be formed by the tubes of the structural modules which form sealed envelopes enclosing air in a sealed manner, possibly with their connection or are filled with a material of density lower than water.

[0056] According to one embodiment, the installation comprises a third row of photovoltaic panels, consecutive to the first and second rows of photovoltaic panels, and in which the second row of photovoltaic panels and the third row of photovoltaic panels each extend in the same longitudinal direction and are spaced apart in the transverse direction, perpendicular to the longitudinal direction by the modules of the structure and in which said structure modules ensuring the spacing between the second row of photovoltaic panels and the third row of photovoltaic panels are configured to be submerged forming a navigable channel in the longitudinal direction between the second row of photovoltaic panels and the third row of photovoltaic panels allowing the circulation of a floating service unit,the structural modules extending substantially along the horizontal plane in such a way that the compression / tension forces pass through the structure, being contained in said horizontal plane of said network structure.,

[0057] According to one embodiment, said installation is equipped with a floating service unit, configured to circulate along the waterway between the first row of photovoltaic panels and the second row of photovoltaic panels.

[0058] The service unit may include: a first hull and a second hull spaced apart from each other along the spacing between the two waterways respectively separating the first row of photovoltaic panels and the second row of photovoltaic panels on the one hand, and the second row of photovoltaic panels and the third row of photovoltaic panels, on the other hand, the first hull being configured to circulate in the waterway between the first row of photovoltaic panels and the second row of photovoltaic panels, the second hull configured to circulate in the waterway between the second row of photovoltaic panels and the third row of photovoltaic panels a gangway, joining the first hull and the second hull together, and configured to straddle the photovoltaic panels of the second row of photovoltaic panels when the service unit circulates in the longitudinal direction.

[0059] According to one embodiment, the gateway comprises a window.

[0060] According to one embodiment, the floating unit is configured to circulate along the waterway above the structural modules in bracing between the first row of photovoltaic panels and the second row of photovoltaic panels, or even along the waterway above the structural modules in bracing between the second row of photovoltaic panels and the third row of photovoltaic panels, causing local sinking of the structure of the network, by pressing on said structural modules, in particular by pressing on the beams of the polygonal mesh trellis.

[0061] According to one embodiment, all or part of the float modules and the structural modules are metallic, plastic or composite elements obtained by molding or extrusion, or result from the assembly of metallic, composite or plastic elements obtained by molding or extrusion.

[0062] The present invention also relates to a method for manufacturing the structural modules of an installation according to the present invention, an installation in which the beams of the lattice are tubes of length corresponding to the sides of the polygonal pattern of the lattice and assembled together by connectors at the vertices of the polygonal pattern and in which the float modules are formed by the tubes of the structural modules which form sealed envelopes enclosing air in a sealed manner, with their connection, and a method in which the structural modules forming the polygonal patterns of the polygonal mesh lattice of the network structure are obtained by assembling the plastic tubes of length corresponding to the sides of the polygonal pattern of the polygonal mesh lattice, the tubes being put end to end by plastic connectors,tubular at the tops of the polygonal patterns and assembled by watertight welding between internal / external spans of the fittings and external / internal spans of the tubes to form the structural modules respectively.,

[0063] The weld may be an induction weld obtained by subjecting to electromagnetic radiation a metallized ring, preferably openwork, provided intermediate between an internal / external surface of the fitting and an external / internal surface of the tube.

[0064] The present disclosure also relates to a method of assembling an installation according to the present disclosure, in which the structural modules obtained by the method of manufacturing structural modules are assembled by placing projecting ears of the connectors opposite each other, several ears being placed opposite each other and crossed by members for locking the structural modules at the level of the vertices of the polygonal patterns of the lattice of the network structure.

[0065] The present disclosure also relates to a method of assembling an installation according to the present disclosure in which the structure modules, floating modules and the photovoltaic panels are assembled together on the bank of the body of water, by pushing the structure of the photovoltaic panel support network as it is assembled.

[0066] The present invention further relates to a method for maintaining an installation according to the present invention, in which said installation is equipped with a floating service unit U, configured to circulate along the waterway (Vn) between the first row (R1) of photovoltaic panels and the second row (R2) of photovoltaic panels and in which the maintenance of the installation is ensured by means of the service unit (U) circulating in the waterway(s) between the photovoltaic panels (PV), and in which in particular said installation comprising a third row (R3) of photovoltaic panels, consecutive to the first and second rows of photovoltaic panels, and in which the second row (R2) of photovoltaic panels and the third row (R3) of photovoltaic panels each extend in the same longitudinal direction (D) and are spaced apart in the transverse direction (T), perpendicular to the longitudinal direction by the modules of the structure and in which said structural modules ensuring the spacing between the second row (R2) of photovoltaic panels and the third (R3) row of photovoltaic panels are configured to be submerged forming a navigable channel (Vn) in the longitudinal direction (D) between the second row (R2) of photovoltaic panels and the third row (R3) of photovoltaic panels allowing the circulation of a floating service unit (U),the structural modules extending substantially along the horizontal plane in such a way that the compression / tension forces pass through the structure, being contained in said horizontal plane of said network structure and installation in which the service unit (U) comprises: a first shell (C1) and a second shell (C2) spaced apart from each other along the spacing between the two waterways (Vn) respectively separating the first row (R1) of photovoltaic panels and the second row (R2) of photovoltaic panels on the one hand, and the second row (R2) of photovoltaic panels and the third row (R3) of photovoltaic panels, on the other hand, the first shell (C1) being configured to circulate in the waterway between the first row (R1) of photovoltaic panels and the second row (R2) of photovoltaic panels,the second hull (C2) configured to circulate in the waterway between the second row (R2) of photovoltaic panels and the third row (R3) of photovoltaic panels a gangway, joining the first hull (C1) and the second hull (C2) together, and configured to straddle the photovoltaic (PV) panels of the second row (R2) of photovoltaic panels when the service unit circulates in the longitudinal direction (L), and in which, possibly, the floating unit is configured to circulate along the waterway above the bracing structure modules between the first row (R1) of photovoltaic panels and the second row (R2) of photovoltaic panels, or even along the waterway above the bracing structure modules between the second row (R2) of photovoltaic panels and the third row (R3) of photovoltaic panels,by causing the local sinking of the network structure, by pressing on said structural modules. Brief description of the drawings

[0067] Other features, details and advantages will become apparent upon reading the detailed description below, and upon analyzing the attached drawings, in which: Fig. 1 [ Fig. 1] is a perspective view of a floating solar installation whose network structure forms a triangular mesh lattice, resulting from the assembly of the structural modules of floating support devices, each supporting a photovoltaic panel, each structural module forming a triangular pattern of the lattice, the floating support devices being assembled together by the vertices of the triangle of each triangular pattern, the tubes of the structural modules ensuring the buoyancy of the installation, the structural modules forming the floating modules, the buoyancy of the installation being configured so that the structural modules are at water height when subjected to the load of the photovoltaic panels,and configured to sink at least locally under the vertical load of a floating service unit by forming at least one navigable channel between the first row of photovoltaic panels and the second row of photovoltaic panels, or even a navigable channel between the second row of panels and a third row of photovoltaic panels, or even more generally for an installation with an integer number of N rows of photovoltaic panels, a navigable channel between the row of integers k and k+1 when k is between 2 and N-1, Fig. 2 [ Fig. 2 ] is a bottom view of the figure 1 illustrating the triangular mesh lattice, resulting from the assembly of the structural modules and following a substantially horizontal plane. Fig. 3 [ Fig. 3 ] is a detail view illustrating the fixing between the tops of the structural modules of the floating support devices of the installation of the figure 1 . Fig. 4 [ Fig. 4] is a detailed view of a floating support device of the installation according to the figure 1 Fig. 4a [ Fig. 4a ] is a detailed view of the attachment rib / attachment groove pair ensuring the attachment between the vertical support and a tube of the structural module Fig. 5 [ Fig. 5 ] is a detail view of the tube forming a triangular side of the structural module, which can be obtained by extrusion, including with its attachment rib. Fig. 6 [ Fig. 6] is a view of the floating solar installation, including the service unit comprising a first hull configured to circulate in the waterway between the first row of photovoltaic panels and the second row of photovoltaic panels above the structural modules, and a second hull configured to circulate in the waterway between the second row of photovoltaic panels and the third row of photovoltaic panels above the structural modules, as well as a gangway joining the first hull and the second hull together, and configured to straddle the photovoltaic panels of the second row of photovoltaic panels when the service unit circulates in the longitudinal direction. Fig. 7 [ Fig. 7 ] is a view of a floating solar installation according to one embodiment, different from that of the figure 1in that the network structure, extending along the horizontal plane, formed by the triangular structure modules is entirely permanently submerged, the buoyancy of the installation ensured by means of float modules, located above the network structure, integral with the locking members, passing through the connection ears of the structure modules to ensure the attachment of the floating support devices between them. Fig. 8 [ Fig. 8 ] is a perspective view of a floating solar installation according to a third embodiment, the network structure of which is triangular mesh, each triangular pattern of the mesh being formed by three structural modules assembled by their screw ends of the ears of the structural modules, placed opposite each other and crossed by locking members. Fig. 9 [ Fig. 9] is a schematic view of a floating solar installation according to a fourth embodiment, the network structure of which is triangular mesh, resulting from the assembly of long beams, and according to another possible orientation of the rows of photovoltaic panels relative to the triangular patterns of the network Fig. 10 [ Fig. 10 ] is a schematic view of a floating solar installation according to a fifth embodiment, the network structure of which is triangular mesh, resulting from the assembly of long beams, and according to yet another possible orientation of the rows of photovoltaic panels relative to the triangular patterns of the network Fig. 11 [ Fig. 11] is a schematic view of a floating solar installation according to a sixth embodiment, the network structure of which is a triangular mesh trellis, resulting from the assembly of beams forming the sides of the triangular pattern, the network structure being in itself non-floating, the buoyancy of the installation being ensured by float modules, integral with the trellis, in particular embedded in the trellis, each float module having in particular grooves, in particular cross-shaped, where the beams of the trellis extend longitudinally, the photovoltaic panels of the different rows of floats being integral with the float modules, by means of vertical supports. Fig. 12 [ Fig. 12] is a perspective view of a floating solar installation whose network structure forms a diamond-shaped mesh lattice, resulting from the assembly of the structural modules of floating support devices, each supporting a photovoltaic panel, each structural module forming a diamond pattern of the lattice, the floating support devices being assembled together by the vertices of the diamond of each diamond pattern, the tubes of the structural modules ensuring the buoyancy of the installation, the structural modules forming the floating modules, the buoyancy of the installation being configured so that the structural modules are at water level when subjected to the load of the photovoltaic panels,and configured to sink at least locally under the vertical load of a floating service unit by forming at least one waterway between the first row of photovoltaic panels (which is a double row) and the second row of photovoltaic panels (which is a double row), or even a waterway between the second row of panels, and a third row of photovoltaic panels (which is a double row), or even more generally for an installation with an integer number of N rows of photovoltaic panels, a waterway between the row of integers k and k+1 when k is between 2 and N-1. Fig. 12a [ Fig. 12a ] is a schematic view of the structural module forming a diamond pattern of the pattern of a floating support device, configured to support two panels (“duo pitch”). Fig. 13 [ Fig. 13] is a sectional view, along a plane passing through the axis of the tube, illustrating the welding between the external surface of a tube, and the internal surface of a fitting, via an intermediate metallized ring, configured for the implementation of an induction weld between the plastic of the internal surface and the external surface. Fig. 14 [ Fig. 14] is a sectional view, along a vertical sectional plane, of a connection of a structural module of an installation, the connection being made of plastic comprising a tubular body forming a 60° angle return (for the particular case of an equilateral triangle), including a first internal bearing surface provided with a first metallized ring as an insert, overmolded, the internal bearing surface intended to receive an external bearing surface of a first tube, as well as a second internal bearing surface provided with a second metallized ring as an insert, overmolded, intended to receive an external bearing surface of a second tube, inclined at 60° relative to the first tube, the metallized rings - first metallized ring and second metallized ring - being perforated and configured to ensure the fusion of the plastic of the internal bearing surface of the connection and the external door of the tube, through the perforations of the rings. Description of the embodiments

[0068] The drawings and description below contain, for the most part, elements of a certain character. They may therefore not only serve to better understand this disclosure, but also contribute to its definition, if necessary.

[0069] The present disclosure relates to a floating solar installation 1 supporting PV photovoltaic panels, resulting from the assembly of structural modules 2; 2' and floating modules 3; 3' on a body of water, forming a floating network supporting photovoltaic panels, including: a first row R1 of photovoltaic panels, a second row R2 of photovoltaic panels, and in which the first row R1 of photovoltaic panels and the second row R2 of photovoltaic panels extend in the same longitudinal direction D and are spaced in the transverse direction T, perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0070] According to the present disclosure, at least said structural modules 2 provide spacing between the first row R1 of photovoltaic panels and the second row R2 of photovoltaic panels and are configured to be submerged, at least locally and / or temporarily, allowing the circulation of a floating service unit U along a waterway Vn above said structural modules 2.

[0071] According to the present disclosure, said network structure results from the assembly of said structure modules 2, rigid or semi-rigid, said structure being configured to work in the two directions (non-parallel) substantially of the horizontal plane of the structure while resisting the compression forces and the tensile forces to which said network structure is subjected.

[0072] According to the present disclosure, the network structure extends substantially along the horizontal plane such that the compression / tension forces pass through the structure modules 2, being contained within said horizontal plane of said network structure.

[0073] Notably, at least according to one embodiment, the network structure has a planar base, said network structure being configured to be substantially planar when resting on a planar surface.

[0074] According to the present disclosure, the network structure resulting from the assembly of the structure modules 2 forms a polygonal mesh lattice. This polygonal mesh lattice extends substantially along the horizontal plane of the network structure.

[0075] The network structure can be anchored to the bottom (or to the bank) by means of anchor lines, connecting the said network structure to dead bodies, or even to piles.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the buoyancy of the solar installation 1 is configured so that the structure of the network, extending along the horizontal plane, is permanently entirely submerged with the presence of a height of water above the structure modules 2 so as to form a navigable channel between the first row R1 of photovoltaic panels and the second row R2 of photovoltaic panels, extending along the longitudinal direction D. Such an embodiment is illustrated for information purposes in figure 7 . Benefiting from a network structure that is fully submerged permanently makes it possible to filter at least part of the UV rays, and even to smooth out the temperature variations to which the network structure is subjected, and in comparison, to a network structure whose structural modules are in the open air.

[0077] For this purpose, the structure modules 2 extending along the horizontal plane are secured below the float modules 3, in order to keep the network structure permanently fully submerged.

[0078] Alternatively, the buoyancy of the installation is configured such that the network structure extending along the horizontal plane is configured to be at water height when the network structure is not subject to any substantial vertical load other than that of the photovoltaic panels or even the power lines.

[0079] Furthermore, and in such a case, the buoyancy of the installation is configured in such a way that said structural modules 2 are submerged, at least locally, temporarily under the vertical load of a service unit U bearing vertically on the network structure. According to this other possibility, the waterway Vn between the first row R1 of photovoltaic panels and the second row R2 of photovoltaic panels, with water height above the structural modules, is only ensured by sinking of the network structure by the service unit U.

[0080] Furthermore, and notably, the buoyancy of the installation may be insufficient for an operator, male or female, weighing between 60 kg and 150 kg to be able to walk on the beams of the lattice structure without having their feet in the water due to the local sinking of the structure. In other words, when the operator walks on the beams of the lattice, they sink locally, the operator finding themselves with their feet in the water.

[0081] This local sinking may result from the design of the beams, which have a deflection under the vertical load of the operator (or maintenance unit) so that the structure sinks locally into the water at the level of the vertical load, and then the portion of the lattice structure at a distance from the load remains out of the water. Such an embodiment is particularly suitable when the beams of the lattice are "long" beams, for example according to the figures 9 And 10, namely that the beams are larger than the polygonal (especially triangular) pattern of the mesh.

[0082] This local sinking may also result from the fact that the lattice structure has flexible zones, particularly at the vertices of the mesh polygon.

[0083] In all cases, and even when the structure of the network is pushed in by the maintenance unit, the PV photovoltaic panels of the solar installation are kept out of the water, in particular by means of vertical supports 6, connecting the structure modules 2, 2' to the photovoltaic panels, or in particular by means of vertical supports 6' connecting the PV photovoltaic panels to the float modules 3' (when these are provided as elements separate from the structure modules), and as illustrated by way of example in figure 11 .

[0084] . The beams of the lattice can be “long” beams, for example according to, namely that the beams are of a dimension greater than the polygonal pattern (in particular triangular) of the mesh for example according to the examples of the figures 9 And 10 , or even “short” beams, in particular in the form of tubes, of dimensions corresponding to the length of one side of the polygon of the mesh pattern of the lattice, for example according to the examples of figures 1 to 7 , 8 And 12 .

[0085] When "short" beams are used, connectors 21 are used to connect the beams of the hopper at the vertices of the polygonal pattern. These connectors 21 comprise at least two internal (or alternatively external) spans cooperating with external (or alternatively internal) spans belonging to two consecutive beams of the polygonal pattern. These connectors may also carry ears 50. These ears 50 may thus allow the lattice structure to deform, in particular at the vertices of the polygonal pattern.

[0086] The mesh pattern can be a polygon, especially a regular polygon, or an irregular one. The polygon can be a rectangle, especially a square, a rhombus, or a triangle, especially an isosceles or even equilateral one, or a honeycomb (hexagonal) pattern. The lattice can be complete (with no missing beams), or incomplete as shown in figure 12 . THE figures 1 to 8illustrate several embodiments for which the lattice is triangular meshed, the polygon being a triangle, in particular equilateral or isosceles. The figure 12 illustrates a diamond mesh truss, with a floating support device having a structural module forming a diamond pattern. A reinforcing beam may join two opposite vertices of the diamond as shown in Figure 12a .

[0087] It is noted that the beams of the lattice, which take up the polygonal pattern of the mesh, offer days (voids), in particular of significant sizes, which can make it possible to reduce the weight of the structure, or even to effectively cool the photovoltaic panels located above the structure of the network, in particular by the phenomena of air convection between the water and the photovoltaic panels, and even when the structure modules are not permanently immersed under the weight of the photovoltaic panels.

[0088] The different rows of panels (first row R1, second row R2, third row R3) can be carried by the consecutive rows of the different polygonal patterns. The dimension of the polygonal patterns in the transverse direction T is superabundant in order to create the interspace forming a waterway Vn between two rows of photovoltaic panels R1, R2; R2, R3, (and more generally Rk, Rk+1), between two consecutive rows of polygonal patterns, each carrying a row of photovoltaic panels.

[0089] The rows R1, R2, and more generally Rk can be rows of single panels as illustrated in figures 1 to 11 , or rows of multiple panels, for example double, as shown in figure 12 . So, at the figure 1 , each member of the row is a duo of photovoltaic panels, in particular “duo pitch”, namely that the two panels of the member have opposite inclinations.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the structure of the network results from the assembly of self-supporting floating support devices 4, each supporting a photovoltaic panel, in particular as illustrated in figure 1 , or even each supporting a limited number of panels, such as two photovoltaic panels as illustrated in the Figure 12a and 12 or each diamond pattern carries a duo of panels (duo pitch), or three photovoltaic panels. Each support comprises said structural modules 2, each structural module 2 supporting said PV photovoltaic panel. Such an embodiment is illustrated for the floating installation of figures 1 to 6 when the network structure is not permanently fully submerged, but only by sinking caused by the service unit as visible at the figure 6 , and again to the figure 7 , when the network structure is fully submerged and permanently.

[0091] It is noted that the structural module 2 of each floating support device 4 extends in an overhanging manner relative to the photovoltaic panel PV, in the transverse direction T, so as to create the waterway Vn between the first row R1 of photovoltaic panels and the second row R2 of photovoltaic panels.

[0092] Each floating support device 4 may consist (in terms of network structure) of a pattern of the polygonal mesh lattice, forming a polygon, in particular regular or irregular, such as a triangle, in particular equilateral or isosceles (for example illustrated in figure 2 ), or even a diamond at the Figure 12a . Connecting means 5 ensure the fixing between them of the structural modules 2 of the floating support devices 4, in particular via their tops.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the structural module 2 of the floating support device 4 comprises tubes 20, respectively forming the sides of the polygon of the polygonal pattern, the tubes 20 being assembled together by connectors 21 at the vertices of the polygon.

[0094] The tubes can form one or more envelopes tightly enclosing air, or can be filled with a material with a density lower than water. A seal can be obtained by watertight welding between the fittings and the tubes, particularly in the case where the tubes are filled with air. In such a case, the tubular structure module 2 combines the function of the float module 3 (and are therefore made up of the same elements), the structure of the network being at water level, not entirely submerged permanently, under the load of the photovoltaic panels, but only temporarily submerged under the vertical load of the maintenance unit.

[0095] Alternatively, and depending on the embodiment notably visible in the figure 7 , the tubular structure modules 2 do not ensure the buoyancy of the installation and are completely submerged permanently under the load of the photovoltaic panels of the installation.

[0096] For this purpose, float modules 3, positioned above the structural modules, integral with the structural modules 2, ensure the buoyancy of the installation with maintenance of the PV photovoltaic panels out of the water, while maintaining the structure of the network entirely submerged, to have the polygonal pattern beam lattice.

[0097] The connecting means 5 ensure the fixing between them of the structural modules of the floating support devices, and can allow a slight angular movement between the floating support devices, the structure of the network thus being deformable under the constraints of the swell.

[0098] The connecting means 5 can thus comprise projecting ears 50 of the connectors 21, several ears 50 being placed opposite each other and crossed by a locking member 51 to ensure fixing between said floating support devices 4.

[0099] When the network structure is at water height under the load of the photovoltaic panels, the ears 50 can be flexible, so as to obtain local sinking of the structure under the load of the maintenance unit.

[0100] According to one embodiment, the locking members 51 passing through the ears 50 are integral in whole or in part with float modules 3 positioned above the structure of the network formed by the assembly of structure modules 2. As taught by WO2019053389 (A1) of the present Applicant, the float modules 1 can for example be constituted in whole or in part by plastic envelopes enclosing a volume of air, having a neck 11 with an opening, closed by a plug

[0101] The ears 51 are then placed opposite each other for the assembly of the structural modules 2 between them. The float modules 2 are configured so that the assembly of the facing ears is obtained in whole or in part by inserting the neck (facing downwards) through the ears without the cap present, then locking the assembly by placing the cap closing the opening of the neck. Once the cap is locked, the ears are held between two stops formed by a shoulder at the base of the neck and a shoulder of the cap. The float modules can be obtained from plastic by injection blow molding or extrusion blow molding.

[0102] The 3' floating modules can still be embedded with the 2' structural modules, which can then be non-floating, as seen as an example in figure 8 , or even to the figure 11In such a case, we notice that the compression / extension forces of the network, transit in the vertical plane of the network structure, but without transiting in the 3' float modules.

[0103] To the figure 8 , we note that the float module 3' is embedded in a structure module 3 forming a beam on one side pattern, for example by overmolding.

[0104] To the figure 11 , we note that the or each float module 3' comprises cross grooves in excess of its upper wall, where the beams of the lattice extend longitudinally, so that a node of the lattice can be located at the intersection of the grooves.

[0105] It is noted that the photovoltaic panels of the different rows of floats are secured to the float modules, by means of vertical supports 6.

[0106] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the structural modules 2 of said floating support devices 4 and the PV photovoltaic panels can be assembled together on the bank of the body of water, by pushing the structure of the photovoltaic panel support network as it is assembled. According to an embodiment, such an assembly can be ensured without lifting means for launching the floating solar installation.

[0107] According to one embodiment, for example visible in the figure 8the polygonal pattern of the lattice is a polygon with N sides, for example a triangle, in particular equilateral or isosceles. N structural modules 2' (for example, three structural modules are assembled in the case of a triangle) are then assembled by their ends, respectively forming the sides of the polygon of the lattice with polygonal pattern. The structural modules 2' are assembled, for example, via lugs 50' at their ends, the lugs 50' facing each other and crossed by locking members. In such an embodiment according to the figure 8 , each PV photovoltaic panel is supported by several separate 2' structure modules, and not a single structure module2 as in the figure 1 The 3' float modules can be subject to all or part of the 2' structure modules, in particular by means of support as visible in the figure 8 . Alternatively, the panels are attached to the 3' float modules.

[0108] According to one embodiment, vertical supports 6 are secured to the structural modules 2, 2' to ensure the vertical bracing of the PV photovoltaic panels relative to the horizontal plane forming the structure of the network.

[0109] The structural modules 2, 2' and the vertical supports 6 may for example be assembled by a coupling rib 7 / coupling groove pair. The coupling rib 7 (or coupling groove) may be carried by all or part of the tubes 20 of the structural modules, obtained in particular during the extrusion of the tube 20. All or part of the vertical supports 6 may be profiles, the coupling groove (or coupling rib) obtained by extrusion of the profile.

[0110] According to one embodiment, illustrated as an example in figure 9 Or 10, the lattice forming the structure of the network, results from the assembly of structural modules in the form of long beams, at least in part, namely that the long beam is of a dimension greater than the polygonal pattern (in particular triangular). The structure of the network structure is then substantially rigid, or at the very least may have beam flexibility adapted to allow local sinking when the structure is only submerged under a vertical load, and may still require lifting means for its launching. Generally speaking, different orientations of the rows of panels R1, R2, R2 can be envisaged in relation to the patterns of the network structure, the figures 9 And 10 giving two possible orientations as non-limiting examples, other than the orientation of the rows of panels illustrated in the previous figures.

[0111] According to the present disclosure, the network structure has a planar base, said network structure being configured to be substantially planar when resting on a planar surface.

[0112] Preferably, the network structure has a flat base, which can support: directly on the horizontal surface, as for example for the embodiments of the figures 1 to 7 , indirectly on the horizontal surface, via the 3' float modules as for example for the embodiments of the figures 8 And 11 .

[0113] According to one embodiment, said floating solar installation comprises a third row R3 of photovoltaic panels, consecutive to the first and second rows of photovoltaic panels, and in which the second row R2 of photovoltaic panels and the third row R3 of photovoltaic panels each extend in the same longitudinal direction D and are spaced in the transverse direction T, perpendicular to the longitudinal direction by the modules of the structure 2.

[0114] Said structural modules 2 provide the spacing between the second row R2 of photovoltaic panels and the third row R3 of photovoltaic panels are configured to be submerged forming a waterway Vn along the longitudinal direction D between the second row R2 of photovoltaic panels and the third row R3 of photovoltaic panels allowing the circulation of a floating service unit U, the structural modules 2 in bracing extending substantially along the horizontal plane such that the compression / tension forces pass through the structure, being contained in said horizontal plane of said network structure

[0115] Generally, the floating solar installation may comprise an integer number N of rows of photovoltaic panels greater than three, the panels of each row of photovoltaic panels extending in the longitudinal direction L, and being spaced in the transverse direction T by the structural modules forming the structure of the network which extends substantially in the horizontal plane. Generally, waterways Vn are provided above the structural modules 2,2' between the rows of photovoltaic panels of ranks k-1 and k for k between 2 and N and in order to ensure the maintenance of the panels of the different rows of ranks 1 to N.

[0116] According to one embodiment, the floating solar installation is equipped with a floating service unit U, configured to circulate along the waterway Vn between the first row R1 of photovoltaic panels and the second row R2 of photovoltaic panels, or more generally between the row of rank k-1 and k when k is between 2 and N.

[0117] According to one embodiment, the service unit U comprises a first shell C1 and a second shell C2 spaced apart from each other according to the spacing between the two waterways Vn respectively separating the first row R1 of photovoltaic panels and the second row R2 of photovoltaic panels on the one hand, and the second row R2 of photovoltaic panels and the third row R3 of photovoltaic panels, on the other hand.

[0118] The first hull C1 is configured to circulate in the waterway between the first row R1 of photovoltaic panels and the second row R2 of photovoltaic panels, the second hull C2 configured to circulate in the waterway between the second row R2 of photovoltaic panels and the third row R3 of photovoltaic panels.

[0119] A walkway 10 joins the first shell C1 and the second shell C2 together, and is configured to straddle the photovoltaic panels PV of the second row R2 of photovoltaic panels when the service unit travels in the longitudinal direction L.

[0120] Generally, the first hull C1 can circulate along the waterway between the row of rank k-1 and k, and the second hull can circulate simultaneously along the waterway between the row of photovoltaic panels of rank k and k+1 when k is between 2 and N-1.

[0121] It is noted that the gateway 10 may include a window F, providing access to the PV photovoltaic panel positioned under the gateway for the operator present on the gateway 10.

[0122] According to one embodiment, the floating unit is configured to circulate along the waterway above the structure modules 2; 2' in spacing between the first row R1 of photovoltaic panels and the second row R2 of photovoltaic panels, or even along the waterway above the structure modules 2; 2' in spacing between the second row R2 of photovoltaic panels and the third row R3 of photovoltaic panels, or even more generally between the row of panels k and k+1 by causing the local sinking of the structure of the network, by pressing on said structure modules 2, 2'

[0123] The present disclosure also relates to a method of manufacturing such an installation; in which all or part of the float modules 3, 3' and the structural modules 2, 2' are metallic, plastic or composite elements obtained by molding or extrusion, or result from the assembly of metallic, composite or plastic elements obtained by molding or extrusion.

[0124] In particular, the present invention relates to a method for manufacturing the structural modules of an installation with tubes 20 and fittings 21 in which the structural modules 2 forming polygonal patterns of the polygonal mesh lattice of the network structure are obtained by assembling the plastic tubes 20 of length corresponding to the sides of the polygonal pattern of the polygonal mesh lattice, the tubes being placed end-to-end by the tubular plastic fittings 21 at the tops of the polygonal patterns and assembled by sealed welding between internal / external spans of the fittings 21 and external / internal spans of the tubes 20 to form the structural modules.

[0125] The weld may advantageously be an induction weld obtained by subjecting a metallized ring Bm to electromagnetic radiation, provided intermediate between an internal / external surface of the connector 21 and an external / internal surface of the tube 20.

[0126] There Figure 14 discloses by way of example a sectional view of such a connection 21. Generally speaking, it may be a connection comprising a tubular body forming an angle transmission, for example at 60° on the figure 14 with at least two internal (or external) bearing surfaces. Tubes, for example cylindrical, have external (or internal) bearing surfaces which are fitted into the bearing surfaces of the tubular body.

[0127] On the figure 14 , we note the presence of two metallized rings Bm which can be overmolded as an insert in the body of the angle gear, in particular during the injection molding of the connection 21, and for example overmolded the two internal bearing surfaces of the connection. These rings Bm are openwork / perforated, and allow the implementation of induction welding.

[0128] To proceed, the tube 20 is fitted into the fitting 21, with an overlap of the internal and external (tubular) bearing surfaces of the fitting 21 and the tube 20, the metallized ring Bm then positioned intermediate between the internal / external bearing surfaces, then the assembly is subjected to an electromagnetic field causing the metallized ring to reach a temperature equal to or even higher than the melting temperature of the plastic. A watertight weld is obtained between the internal and external bearing surfaces over the entire periphery of the tube with melting of the plastic through the perforations of the metallized ring Bm.

[0129] Advantageously, this manufacturing method can be implemented close to the installation site of the floating solar installation, in that it requires little equipment for its implementation. This advantageously makes it possible to transport the components of the installation in kit form, essentially comprising, in the disassembled state, tubes (in particular with a rib / groove for attachment), fittings 21, and vertical supports 6, which can be moved, transported and stored easily, due to their small size.

[0130] For example, and when the structural module is a polygonal pattern in the form of a polygon, in particular an equilateral triangle, all the connectors 21 can be identical with a 60° angle return and the tubes 20 also identical, and in particular of the same length, which is very advantageous.

[0131] The present disclosure also relates to a method of assembling an installation, in which the structural modules 2 obtained by the manufacturing method are assembled by placing projecting ears 50 of the connectors 21 opposite each other, several ears 50 being placed opposite each other and crossed by locking members 51 of the structural modules at the apexes of the polygonal patterns of the lattice of the network structure.

[0132] The present disclosure also relates to a method of assembling an installation according to the present disclosure, in which the structural modules 2; 2', or even the floating modules 3; 3' and the PV photovoltaic panels are assembled together on the bank of the body of water, by pushing the structure of the photovoltaic panel support network as it is assembled.

[0133] The present disclosure also relates to a method of maintaining an installation according to the present disclosure, in which the maintenance of the installation is ensured by means of the service unit U circulating in the waterway(s) between the photovoltaic PV panels. Benefits

[0134] The installation according to the present disclosure is advantageous compared to those taught by the document WO201213998 (A2) or even the document WO 2015092237 (A1) whose implementation of maintenance requires that the buoyancy of the installation takes into account the recovery of the load of one or more operators carrying out the maintenance: The structure of the network of the installation according to the present disclosure is of lighter design and requires less material, in particular plastic, for its implementation.

[0135] The installation according to the present disclosure is further advantageous compared to the teaching of document US2017 / 0033732A1 in that it can, at least according to one embodiment, be assembled easily and quickly said installation from the bank, and for example, by way of example without requiring lifting means for its launching.

[0136] The installation of the present disclosure does not require, like document US2017 / 0033732A1, or WO 2014 / 136107, to stretch a network of cables in tension, substantially horizontally, for its implementation in that the lattice of beams forming the structure of the installation according to the present disclosure can work in compression, and unlike the cable structure of these prior art.

[0137] The installation beam lattice structure according to the present disclosure extends substantially along a horizontal plane, the forces being contained in this horizontal plane: it therefore does not require U-shaped connections, like documents US2018 / 0001975 A1 or WO 2014 / 136107 which require these U-shaped connections to ensure the creation of waterways while ensuring a change of plane of the forces passing through the structure, at the level of each waterway.

[0138] The installation according to the present disclosure is still advantageous compared to the teaching of document US2018 / 0001975 A1 in that the structure of the network has a flat base allowing the structure of the photovoltaic panel support network, in particular formed of floating support devices, to be pushed as it is assembled on the bank or shore, by sliding the structure of the network, or even the floating support devices of the installation, and unlike the structure of the network formed by document US2018 / 0001975, which has projecting U-shaped connections below the surface of the floats of the floating panel support devices, these projecting connections preventing the floating support devices from resting on the ground, by generating significant friction incompatible with such a method of launching.

[0139] According to an advantageous embodiment, the floating solar installation can be obtained easily and quickly by a kit comprising three types of components, namely fittings 21, tubes 20, and vertical supports 60 in the disassembled state, which is particularly space-saving and facilitates storage and transport. List of reference signs

[0140] 1: Floating solar installation, 10. PV walkway. Photovoltaic panels, U Service unit, C1, C2. Hulls (First and second) L. Longitudinal direction, R1 First row of photovoltaic panels R2 Second row of photovoltaic panels R3. Third row of photovoltaic panels T. Transverse direction, F. Window (walkway) Embodiment of Figures 1 to 7

[0141] 2. Structural modules, 3. Float modules 4. Floating support devices, 5. Connection means (between floating support devices) 20. Tubes, 21. Fittings; 50. Ears (fixing means) 51. Locking devices Embodiment of Figure 8

[0142] 2'. Structural modules, 3'. Float modules. 50'. Ears (fixing means).

Claims

1. Floating solar installation (1) supporting photovoltaic (PV) panels, resulting from the assembly of structural modules (2; 2') and floating modules (3; 3') over a stretch of water, forming a floating network supporting photovoltaic panels, comprising: - a first row (R1) of photovoltaic panels, - a second row (R2) of photovoltaic panels, and wherein the first row (R1) of photovoltaic panels and the second row (R2) of photovoltaic panels extend along one and the same longitudinal direction (D) and are spaced apart along the transverse direction (T), perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, and wherein at least said structural modules (2) ensuring the spacing between the first row (R1) of photovoltaic panels and the second row (R2) of photovoltaic panels are configured to be immersed, allowing a floating service unit (U) to travel along a navigable path (Vn) above said structure modules (2), said structure of the network, comprising an assembly of said rigid or semi-rigid structure modules (2), being configured to work along the two directions substantially of the horizontal plane of the structure by resisting the compression and tensile forces to which said structure of the network is subjected, characterised in that the structure of the network extends substantially along the horizontal plane, the structure being formed by said assembly of the structure modules (2) forming a lattice of polygonal meshed beams, in particular the lattice has a triangular, hexagonal or diamond mesh, extending along the horizontal plane, the beams of the lattice taking the polygonal pattern of the mesh, offering apertures configured to cool the photovoltaic panels located above the network structure, the lattice of beams forming the structure being configured to be permanently immersed, or alternatively immersed at least locally under the vertical load of the service unit (U) and wherein vertical supports (6, 6')) are fastened to the structure modules (2, 2') in particular to the beams, or even to the floating modules, to ensure the vertical bracing of the photovoltaic panels (PV) with respect to the horizontal plane forming the network structure by ensuring the holding of the photovoltaic panels (PV) out of the water, the structure formed by the lattice of polygonally meshed beams being configured such that the compression / tension forces transit in the structural modules (2), being contained in said horizontal plane of said grid structure.

2. Floating solar installation according to claim 1, wherein the buoyancy of the solar installation (1) is configured so that the structure of the network formed by the lattice of polygonally meshed beams extending along the horizontal plane is permanently fully submerged with the presence of a water height above the structure modules (2) so as to form a navigable path between the first row (R1) of photovoltaic panels and the second row (R2) of photovoltaic panels, extending along the longitudinal direction (D), the photovoltaic panels (PV) of the installation being held out of the water by the vertical supports (6), and wherein the structural modules (2) forming the lattice of polygonally meshed beams extending along the horizontal plane are secured below the floating modules (3), in order to keep the structure of the network permanently fully immersed.

3. Floating solar installation according to claim 1, wherein the buoyancy of the installation is configured such that: - the network structure formed by the lattice of polygonally meshed beams extending along the horizontal plane is at water level when the network structure is not subjected to a substantial vertical load other than that of the photovoltaic panels, - said structural modules (2) are immersed, at least locally, under the vertical load of a service unit (U) coming into vertical abutment on the network structure, the photovoltaic panels (PV) of the installation being held out of the water the vertical supports (6) during local pressing down by the service unit (U) and in which in particular the buoyancy of the installation is insufficient for an operator, man or woman, weighing between 60 kg and 150 kg to be able to walk on the beams of the lattice structure without having their feet in the water due to the local pressing down of the structure.

4. Floating solar installation according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the structure of the network results from the assembly of floating, self-supporting support devices (4), each or at least most supporting a photovoltaic panel, or even several panels such as two or three photovoltaic panels, said floating support devices comprising said structure modules (2), each structure module (2) of the floating support devices (4) supporting the photovoltaic panel (PV), or even said plurality of photovoltaic panels, and wherein the structure module (2) of each floating support device (4) extends protruding with respect to the photovoltaic panel (PV), along the transverse direction (T), so as to create the navigable path (Vn) between the first row (R1) of photovoltaic panels and the second row (R2) of the photovoltaic panels.

5. Floating solar installation according to claim 4, wherein the structure module (2) of each floating support device (4) consists of a pattern of the polygonal-mesh lattice, forming a polygon, connecting means (5) securing the structure modules (2) and the floating support devices (4) together and wherein in particular the structure module (2) includes tubes (20), forming respectively the sides of the polygon of the polygonal pattern, the tubes (20) being assembled together by couplings (21) at the vertices of the polygon.

6. Installation according to claim 5, wherein the tubes (20) form several envelopes sealingly enclosing air, or are filled with a material of lower density than water.

7. Floating solar installation according to claim 3 taken in combination with claim 5, wherein the connecting means (5) securing the structure modules of the devices including protruding lugs (50) of the couplings (21) to each other, several lugs (50) being put facing and having a locking member (51) passing through them to provide the attachment between said floating support devices (4) and wherein the structure of the network being at water level, not fully immersed permanently, under the load of the photovoltaic panels, configured to be temporarily immersed, and locally under the vertical load of the service unit (U), by deformation of the lugs (50), flexible.

8. Installation according to one of claims 4 to 7, wherein the pattern of the polygonal-mesh lattice forming the structural module of each floating device is a triangle, in particular an isosceles or equilateral triangle, for example suitable for supporting a photovoltaic panel, or a diamond, for example suitable for supporting two photovoltaic panels, having in particular opposite inclinations.

9. Method for manufacturing the structure modules of an installation according to one of claims 1 to 8, and installation wherein the beams of the lattice are tubes (20) with a length corresponding to the sides of the polygonal pattern of the lattice and assembled together by couplings (21) at the vertices of the polygonal pattern and wherein the floating modules (3) are formed by the tubes (20) of the structure modules which form sealed envelopes containing air in a sealed manner, with their coupling (21), and a method in which the structural modules (2) forming polygonal patterns of the polygonal-mesh lattice of the network structure are obtained by assembling the tubes (20), plastics with a length corresponding to the sides of the polygonal pattern of the polygonal-mesh lattice, the tubes being put end to end by plastic tubular couplings (21) at the vertices of the polygonal patterns and assembled by sealed welding between internal / external surfaces of the couplings (21) and the outer / inner surfaces of the tubes (20) to form the structural modules.

10. Method for maintaining an installation according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein said installation is equipped with a floating service unit U, configured to travel along the navigable path (Vn) between the first row (R1) of photovoltaic panels and the second row (R2) of photovoltaic panels and wherein the installation is maintained thanks to the service unit (U) circulating in the navigable path(s) between the photovoltaic panels (PV), and wherein in particular said installation comprising a third row (R3) of photovoltaic panels, consecutive on the first and second rows of photovoltaic panels, and wherein the second row (R2) of photovoltaic panels and the third row (R3) of photovoltaic panels each extend along one and the same longitudinal direction (D) and are spaced apart along the transverse direction (T) perpendicular to the longitudinal direction by the modules of the structure (2) and wherein said structure modules (2) providing the spacing between the second row (R2) of photovoltaic panels and the third (R3) row of photovoltaic panels are configured to be immersed forming a navigable path (Vn) along the longitudinal direction (D) between the second row (R2) of photovoltaic panels and the third row (R3) of photovoltaic panels allowing the circulation of a floating service unit (U), the structure modules (2) extending substantially along the horizontal plane such that the compression / tension forces transit through the structure, being contained in said horizontal plane of said network structure and installation wherein the service unit (U) comprises: - a first shell (C1) and a second shell (C2) spaced apart according to the spacing between the two navigable parts (Vn) separating respectively the first row (R1) of photovoltaic panels and the second row (R2) of photovoltaic panels on the one hand, and the second row (R2) of photovoltaic panels and the third row (R3) of photovoltaic panels on the other hand, the first shell (C1) being configured to travel in the navigable path between the first row (R1) of photovoltaic panels and the second row (R2) of photovoltaic panels, the second shell (C2) configured to travel in the navigable path between the second row (R2) of photovoltaic panels and the third row (R3) of photovoltaic panels - a catwalk (10), joining the first shell (C1) and the second shell (C2) together, and configured to straddle the photovoltaic panels (PV) of the second row (R2) of photovoltaic panels when the service unit travels in the longitudinal direction (L), and wherein, possibly, the floating unit is configured to travel along the navigable path above the structure modules (2; 2') bracing between the first row (R1) of photovoltaic panels and the second row (R2) of photovoltaic panels, or even along the navigable path above the structure modules (2; 2') bracing between the second row (R2) of photovoltaic panels and the third row (R3) of photovoltaic panels, causing the local pressing down of the network structure, by pressing on said structure modules (2, 2 ').