Inflatable protective device for storing a boat hull in situ

Abstract

The invention relates to an inflatable protective device (1) for storing a boat hull in situ on water, the device comprising a tarpaulin (2) and an inflatable perimeter (3) with two opposite longitudinal edges, the device having a first portion (1A) which forms, in the position of use of the device, a waterborne supporting surface for supporting only one end of the hull of a boat, and a second portion (1B) which is connected to the first portion (1A) and is capable of moving in the water in order to transition, via inflation, from an underwater position in which it is folded in particular in multiple segments like an accordion, to a position on the water that is coplanar and longitudinal with respect to the first portion (1A) once the inflatable perimeter (3) has been inflated.

Description

[0001] INFLATABLE PROTECTION DEVICE FOR STORING A BOAT HULL IN SITU

[0002]

[0001] The invention relates to an inflatable protection device intended for storing a boat hull in situ on the water.

[0003]

[0002] Boats are left at their mooring points in the water and are only taken out for their periodic careening. However, marine organisms such as shellfish and algae quickly attach themselves to the hulls and proliferate. To limit the development of these organisms, boat hulls are most often covered with an anti-fouling paint called "antifouling" paint. However, these paints are polluting for the marine environment. In addition, boat hulls must still be regularly scraped, either manually or using a cleaning robot.

[0004]

[0003] A protection solution that does not pollute the marine environment and that reduces the maintenance costs of a boat is the use of an inflatable device for dry-docking boats in situ; the boat, while remaining moored on the water, is protected with this device arranged as an interface. Such a device is for example described in patent application WO2019226056, and comprises a flexible diaphragm secured to an inflatable perimeter, and forming three parts, a middle part and two end parts. When one of the end parts is not inflated, it is able to sink vertically in the water while being held perpendicular to the middle part.The boat can then be introduced into the inflated part of the device and once the boat is received, the remaining end part which forms a flap movable by pivoting in the water is able, when inflated, to pivot while rising to the surface from a vertical position to the horizontal position to close the device around the hull of the boat. This device forms a platform for receiving the boat before its introduction, which corresponds to almost the entire length of the boat. Inflated under high pressure, the device of document WO2019226056 forms like a semi-rigid boat receiving the boat to be protected.On the one hand, it is necessary to inflate this protective device to high pressure, and on the other hand, by forming a semi-rigid device inflated to high pressure and of a length almost that of the boat to be protected, it requires skillful maneuvering of the boat to be protected by being forced to perfectly align the boat to be able to introduce it into said device; this obligation is all the more necessary for long boats (for example for boats 15 m long). Furthermore, this protective device is designed for a given length of boat, and must therefore be manufactured in several models of dimensions.

[0005]

[0004] Also known in patent application AU 2005 522 214 A1 is a device which comprises a first part capable of accommodating almost the entirety of a boat except for the end of the boat and a second part at the end which forms a pivoting flap which rises during inflation. Here again, it is necessary to keep a large part of the length of the device rigid, which requires that the device be in perfect alignment with the boat when it enters the device.

[0006]

[0005] The invention aims to propose another solution for an inflatable protection device, which does not have the aforementioned drawbacks, in particular which makes it possible to easily install a boat to be protected without necessarily having to steer it skillfully.

[0007]

[0006] According to the invention, the inflatable protection device intended to store a boat hull in situ on the water, extends longitudinally, comprises a (flexible) tarpaulin and an inflatable perimeter, and has at least two parts extending longitudinally between two distal ends, a first part forming in the position of use of the device a receiving surface on the water capable of receiving a part of the hull of a boat, and a second part connected (in a sealed manner) to the first part and capable of being movable in the water to pass by inflation, from a position underwater to a position on the water of coplanar and longitudinal arrangement to the first part once the inflatable perimeter is inflated (and conversely from a position on the water to a position submerged in the water by deflation of the inflatable perimeter).In addition, the inflatable protection device has its first part forming a receiving surface which is limited in surface area so that in the position of use it is capable of receiving only one distal end of the hull of the boat (preferably the bow of the boat), and the second part comprises several panels which are capable of being folded underwater and of gradually deploying in the manner of an accordion during inflation of the perimeter (to adopt on the water a position of coplanar arrangement with the first part) from the first part towards the distal end of the second part opposite the first part so as to develop gradually under the rest of the hull of the boat and to surround it, the folded panels, when the device is deflated in the water, having an alternation of emerged upper ends and submerged lower ends.The emerged upper ends are arranged on each edge of the boat and in the longitudinal direction of the boat.

[0008]

[0007] Thus, the inflatable protection device of the invention has a reception surface which is very limited when the boat has to be introduced into the device, only the end of the boat needing to be engaged; on the contrary, the state of the art requires engaging almost the entire length of the boat and only the rear end of the boat remains outside the reception surface before raising the last closing part of the device from the bottom of the water. Consequently, the device of the invention does not require skillful driving of the boat; the user only engages the tip of the boat in the device without any other concerns. In addition, the user does not need to keep the boat in perfect alignment with the device after introducing the tip of the boat; it is in fact the device which adapts to the position of the boat in the water when inflating the perimeter of the device.The boat does not need to be perfectly static when implementing the device; the inflatable protection device, by deploying gradually, allows the cover to gradually and easily wrap around the hull of the boat along its entire length.

[0009]

[0008] In the remainder of the description, the term “position of use” means the position that the device takes when it is used on the water.

[0010]

[0009] In the remainder of the description, the terms “horizontal”, “vertical”, “upper”, “lower”, “high”, “low”, are understood to describe elements in relation to the surface of the water which is considered as a horizontal plane.

[0011]

[0010] The inflatable perimeter of the device comprises two opposing longitudinal edges which extend from one of the two distal ends of the device and meet at the opposite distal end.

[0012]

[0011] Advantageously, the inflatable perimeter of the second part is broken down into two opposite volumes forming two respective opposite edges of the inflatable perimeter of the device, the two volumes being capable of being inflated concomitantly (to ensure uniform inflation on both sides), from the junction with the first part (in the direction and) to the distal end of the second part (and therefore the distal end of the device), opposite the first part. This inflation of the inflatable perimeter of the second part gradually from the junction with the first part to the distal end of the second part, causes the deployment as and when of the folded sides of said second part, said sides rising to the surface, until they envelop the entire hull of the boat.

[0013]

[0012] The panels are therefore capable of being folded, deployed and folded back in the manner of an accordion in the longitudinal direction of the boat from one end to the other and on each lateral edge of the boat. By folding it into several accordion-like panels, the second part as an extension of the receiving surface of the first part easily takes shape progressively. Implementation is thus simple, without requiring the boat to be perfectly static and in perfect alignment with the device.

[0013] In particular, the panels of the second part are presented, according to a longitudinal sectional view of the device, in a continuous alternation of at least one V and one inverted V.

[0014]

[0014] According to one characteristic, the folded sections (V-shaped and inverted V-shaped) in the position of use of the device (and when the perimeter associated with the sections is deflated) have an alternation of emerged upper ends (each upper point of an inverted V) and submerged lower ends (each point of the Vs).

[0015]

[0015] Advantageously, the device comprises ballasts distributed along the length of the second part of the device, in particular at least one ballast every two sides. Preferably, the device comprises a ballast at the distal end of the second part (i.e. opposite the first part, and therefore at the tip of the device), which is heavier than the other ballasts, which allows the tip of the device - the distal end of the second part - to sink first and to drag the rest of the second part towards the bottom of the water during deflation. The ballasts ensure that the sides are submerged when the perimeter of the second part is deflated. The weights are arranged at each lower point of a V of two adjacent sides, that is to say, they are arranged, in the position of use of the device and in the folded position of the second part, at the level of the submerged lower ends of the folded sides.Preferably, a pair of the weights is disposed on every other side, each weight of a pair being disposed on each of the opposite edges of the inflatable perimeter.

[0016]

[0016] According to another characteristic, the device comprises at least one pair of buoys, the two buoys of a pair being arranged opposite each other on each of two opposite longitudinal edges of the inflatable perimeter of the second part of the device. Advantageously, the buoys of a pair are arranged in the use position of the device at the level of the upper emerged ends of the folded sides (at the level of each upper point of an inverted V of two adjacent sides). The device comprises a pair of buoys on every two sides. The device advantageously comprises a successive alternation of a ballast or a pair of ballast (in particular one ballast per pair on each edge) and a pair of buoys.

[0017]

[0017] According to yet another characteristic, the device comprises (below the tarpaulin) stiffeners which extend transversely to the longitudinal direction of the device, in particular a stiffener being positioned at the junction of the first part and the second part, and other stiffeners being positioned at the junction lines of adjacent panels (preferably systematically between two adjacent panels). The stiffeners make it possible to maintain the width spacing between the two opposite longitudinal edges (of the inflatable perimeter) of the device.

[0018]

[0018] According to yet another characteristic, the inflatable perimeter comprises several inflatable tubes abutted in a sheath delimiting said inflatable perimeter. The sheath delimiting the inflatable perimeter of the device comprises, on the one hand, a cylindrical part containing the inflatable tubes and which is preferably open longitudinally while being able to be closed with removable fasteners, and on the other hand, a return to which the peripheral edge of the tarpaulin is fixed, preferably the tarpaulin being made integral with the support part by removable fasteners. The removable fasteners make it possible to separate all the components of the device (tarpaulin, sheath, tubes) in order in particular to repair or replace them.

[0019]

[0019] Preferably, the inflatable protection device is adjustable in length, in particular the first part is removable relative to the second part and the second part comprises several sections removable from each other, preferably the second part comprises an end section which corresponds to the end surface of said second part and at least one intermediate section connecting said end section of the second part to the first part of the device. This design makes it easy to adapt to the length of the boat, in particular by changing only the intermediate section of the second part or by adding other sections. In addition, if one of the sections is damaged, it is much easier to replace it, or to repair it (only the damaged section has to be extracted, easily handled and transported for repair).Furthermore, the removable configuration of the parts provides a device which, out of the water, is arranged in a kit, facilitating its handling and transport and reducing its bulk.

[0020]

[0020] Preferably, at least the tarpaulin and the inflatable perimeter are removable from each other, and preferably other components of the device such as inflatable tubes, weights and buoys are also removable. The removability of the tarpaulin from the inflatable perimeter and its other various removable components makes it possible, in particular, if a component is damaged, to change or repair only this component.

[0021]

[0021] Advantageously, the cover comprises at least one sealed connection orifice intended for the connection of a drain pump (to pump the water remaining between the boat hull and the cover once the device is fully deployed). The connection orifice is arranged at a low point of the protective device in its inflated state.

[0022]

[0022] Advantageously, the inflatable protection device further comprises a detection system which is arranged at the distal end of the second part opposite the first part and is capable of detecting when said distal end is out of the water, in particular the detection automatically triggering the drain pump.

[0023]

[0023] The inflatable protection device can be used for different types of boat, by adapting the geometry of the cover and the inflatable perimeter. For a catamaran comprising two spaced hulls, two inflatable protection devices will be used, the devices being transversely connected to each other by at least one inflatable structure of the type of that of the inflatable perimeter of an inflatable protection device of the invention.

[0024]

[0024] Characteristics and other advantages of the invention will appear on reading the description which follows, given solely by way of non-limiting example, and made with reference to the appended drawings and in which

[0025]

[0025] The present invention is now described using examples which are solely illustrative and in no way limitative of the scope of the invention, and from the attached illustrations, in which:

[0026] [Fig. 1] or Figure 1 represents a schematic side view of an exemplary embodiment of the inflatable protection device according to the invention, ready to be used in the water to receive a boat.

[0027] [Fig. 2] or figure 2 represents the inflatable protection device of figure 1 during its implementation with a boat partially accommodated on it.

[0028] [Fig. 3] or figure 3 corresponds to figure 2 during the progression of the inflation of the inflatable perimeter with partial deployment of the folded sides of the device.

[0029] [Fig. 4] or Figure 4 shows the inflatable protection device with its inflatable perimeter fully inflated and its folded panels fully deployed, the device floating on the water and the boat being arranged dry on it.

[0030] [Fig. 5] or Figure 5 is a schematic top view of the underside of the inflatable protective device of Figure 1 laid flat on the ground before use, the underside being the one intended to be in contact with the water.

[0031] [Fig. 6] or Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the inflatable protection device of the invention carrying a boat.

[0032] [Fig. 7] or Figure 7 is a schematic view equivalent to that of Figure 2 for a longer boat.

[0033]

[0026] The inflatable protection device 1 of the invention illustrated in particular in Figures 1 to 7 is intended to be implemented on the water (shown diagrammatically by the line L) to store a boat hull dry and floating as shown in Figure 4.

[0034]

[0027] The inflatable protection device 1 comprises a bottom cover 2 forming the bottom of the device and intended to envelop the entire hull of the boat, and an inflatable perimeter 3 integral with the entire periphery of the cover 2 and intended to ensure the flotation of the device once inflated.

[0035]

[0028] As illustrated in Figure 5, the inflatable protection device 1 comprises at least two parts IA and IB which extend along the length of the device between two distal ends 1' and 1".

[0036]

[0029] When first launched, the inflatable protection device 1 has its two parts IA and IB secured to each other, each part IA, IB comprising a part of the tarpaulin 2 and a part of the inflatable perimeter 3. The inflatable perimeter associated with the first part IA is first inflated while that of the second part IB is not inflated (figure 1). The entire device 1 is launched (in the device's use position) so that the inflated first part IA is floating on the water while the second part IB is immersed while hanging in (under) the water. The inflated and launched first part IA constitutes a receiving surface for the end of a boat hull such as its bow. The inflatable protection device 1 has been moored.

[0037]

[0030] The first part IA has a receiving surface which is limited to receive only one end of the hull of the boat. In particular, the receiving surface has a length of at most half the hull length of a boat, preferably at most one third of the length. The inflatable protection device 1 is open on the side of the second part 1B, that is to say opposite the distal end 1' of the first part IA. Once the bow of the boat is housed in the first part IA, the boat is moored and the inflation of the second part 1B can take place.

[0038]

[0031] As visible in Figure 5, the first part 1A of the device constituting the end receiving surface has a substantially triangular shape in order to provide a pointed shape in which the generally pointed end of a boat is intended to be wedged. Alternatively, the geometry of the first part 1A could be different; it will be adapted to the shape of the bow of the boat to be received. In the fully developed position of the device 1 and in top view, the second part 1B of the device comprises an area connected to the first part 1A and of generally rectangular shape with two sides 10 and 11, as well as an end zone or end side 12 of generally triangular shape (as for the first part) with the point opposite the rectangular area and intended to envelop the pointed rear of the boat hull.

[0039]

[0032] The first part IA and the sides 10 to 12 of the second part 1B form a continuous surface extending from the distal end 1' (here the tip) of the first part 1A to the opposite distal end 1" (the tip) of the second part 1B.

[0040]

[0033] The length and width dimensions of the inflatable protection device 1 are adapted to the dimensions of the hull to be received so that after implementation of the device, it extends under the entire surface of the hull of the boat and surrounds it. The inflatable protection device 1 has dimensions capable of containing the hull of the boat, and a geometry preferably matching the general shape of the hull. As regards the first part IA which is limited in surface area to correspond to the end of a boat hull, it has for example a length of 2.5 m for a boat hull length of 7 m, 10 m or even 15 m.

[0041]

[0034] In the ready-to-use position (Figure 1), the inflatable protection device 1 is placed in the water so that its first part IA constituting the receiving surface is in a horizontal plane floating on the water, while its second part 1B is folded into several sections of substantially vertical direction which plunge into the water. The number of sections depends on the length of the inflatable protection device 1. In Figure 1, the second part 1B comprises the three sections 10, 11, and 12 which are folded and extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first part 1A. Each of the sections comprises a part of the tarpaulin 2 and a part of the inflatable perimeter 3.

[0042]

[0035] Preferably, the panels 10, 11, and 12 are folded together successively and continuously into a V and an inverted V in a transverse view. The panels 10, 11, and 12 are folded together in the manner of an accordion. The folded panels 10, 11, and 12 have their lower ends 13 (lower end points of the Vs) which plunge towards the bottom of the water and their upper end(s) 14 (here the only upper end point of the inverted Vs) which is (are) emerged at the surface of the water. This arrangement of folded panels of the accordion type of the second part IB of the inflatable protection device 1 and their ability to deploy by inflation of the inflatable perimeter 3, provide a progressive implementation which allows the inflatable protection device to envelop the entire hull of the boat without the boat being purely static.Thus, said second part IB gradually unfolds during the inflation of the inflatable perimeter 3, the panels 10, 11 and 12 which are initially folded in an accordion gradually stretch (figures 3 and 4). The inflatable perimeter 3 of the second part IB is inflated from the junction with the first part IA and in the direction of the free end 1'' of the second part IB, causing a gradual rise of the panels 10 to 12 to the surface until they are arranged just under the hull and surround it (figure 4).

[0043]

[0036] The tarpaulin 2 is not inflatable.

[0044]

[0037] The tarpaulin 2 is made of a waterproof and water-resistant material. The tarpaulin 2 is made of plastic, for example polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or reinforced PVC.

[0045]

[0038] The tarpaulin 2 may be a single piece; the tarpaulin 2 was then manufactured in one piece or in several parts made integral with each other for example by heat-sealing.

[0039] Alternatively, the tarpaulin 2 is made of several sections removable from each other so as to provide a tarpaulin that can be adjusted in length. In addition, by being in several sections, the tarpaulin 2 can easily be disassembled, facilitating its handling, transport and storage. In sections, the tarpaulin 2 (figure 5) preferably comprises at least three sections 20, 21, 22 which correspond respectively to the end surface of the tarpaulin of the first part 1A, to the median surface of the tarpaulin comprising the two panels 10 and 11, and to the end surface of the second part 1B comprising the end panel 12.The intermediate section 21 corresponding to the median surface will generally have a rectangular shape, while the end sections 20 and 22 will have a shape adapted to the geometry of the ends of the boat hull. Depending on the length of the boat hull, the intermediate section 21 will be adapted in length without the need to modify the end sections 20 and 22. Depending on the shape of the ends of the boat hulls, it will be possible to replace the end sections while retaining the intermediate section.

[0046]

[0040] The tarpaulin 2 is coupled to the inflatable perimeter 3 to form the device 1. Preferably, the tarpaulin 2 is removably attached to the inflatable perimeter 3. This removability makes it easier to transport, assemble and disassemble the device, and change one of the components if necessary.

[0047]

[0041] The inflatable perimeter 3 comprises several volumes which are not all intended to be inflated at the same time. The inflatable perimeter 3 comprises a first volume 3A (drawing the sides of the triangle of said first part IA) which, by being coupled to a part of the tarpaulin 2, forms said first part IA, and two other volumes 3B and 3C which respectively delimit the two longitudinal edges of the second part 1B of the device. The first volume 3A is independent of the two other volumes 3B and 3C. The first volume 3A of the first part IA is intended to be inflated first to install the inflatable protection device 1 on the water without it sinking, the first part IA then being able to float (while the two other volumes 3B and 3C are deflated and, forming the second part 1B, are underwater). Both volumes 3B and 3C extend from the first volume 3A to the distal end 1" of the device.The two opposite volumes 3B and 3C are intended to be inflated by bringing air, from the junction with the first volume 3A towards the distal end 1" of the device. The means for bringing air (described later) into these two volumes 3B and 3C are designed so that said volumes are inflated concomitantly (the air is distributed uniformly in each of the opposite volumes 3B and 3C by inflating them gradually towards the distal end 1").

[0048]

[0042] The inflatable protection device 1 which, in the water, is folded accordion-style in a vertical direction and is capable of deploying horizontally as the inflatable perimeter 3 is inflated, in particular as the two volumes 3B and 3C are inflated, further comprises stiffeners 4, ballasts 5, and buoys 6. The stiffeners 4 arranged below the tarpaulin 2 ensure the spacing of the opposite edges of the inflatable perimeter 3 and thus guarantee that the inflatable protection device 1 is kept in shape over the water and underwater, depending on the width. The ballasts 5 ensure the ballasting of the panels 10, 11 and 12 in the water in order to submerge the lower ends 13 of the panels, and the buoys 6 ensure that at least one end of the panels, here the upper end 14 at the junction of the last two panels 11 and 12, is on the surface to ensure the translational movement of the panels as they inflate.A buoy 6 on one longitudinal edge of the perimeter is arranged opposite another buoy 6 (figure 5) on the opposite edge of the perimeter.

[0049]

[0043] The inflatable perimeter 3 comprises one or more sheaths 30 joined to correspond to the length of the perimeter of the device and preferably a plurality of inflatable tubes 31 (figure 6) which are independent of each other and joined according to their length. The sheath 30 is made of a waterproof and water-resistant material. The sheath 30 is made of plastic, for example polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or reinforced PVC. The sheath 30 may be in one piece. Alternatively, the sheath 30 is in several sections made integral with each other.In particular, the sheath 30 will be in several sections when the tarpaulin 2 will be in several sections in order to make the device modular in length; the sheath 30 will preferably comprise at least a first section to be coupled to the end section 20 of the tarpaulin 2, a pair of opposite sections to be coupled to the two opposite edges of the intermediate section 21 of the tarpaulin 2, and a third section to be coupled to the other end section 22 of the tarpaulin 2.

[0050]

[0044] As illustrated in Figure 6, the sheath 30 comprises a cylindrical part 32 in which the inflatable tubes 31 are housed, and a part forming a return 33 which is fixed to the tarpaulin 2. Preferably, once the tubes 31 are introduced into the cylindrical part 32, the latter is not permanently closed on itself. The cylindrical part 32 is able to be opened when not in use along its length to, if necessary, remove the tubes and replace or repair them in the event of a puncture, for example. To provide the cylindrical part 32, the material constituting the sheath 30 is rolled up and assembled on itself by removable fasteners 34 (distributed over the entire length) such as by bolting from nylon screws (nylon is in particular strong, light and does not rust) and / or stainless steel.

[0051]

[0045] The part forming the return 33 is intended to be preferably fixed in a removable manner to the cover 2, in particular to facilitate the repair and maintenance of each of the components of the device out of the water. The fixing of the cover 2 to the inflatable perimeter 3 is carried out over the entire perimeter by fixing means 35, continuously or discontinuously depending on the type of fixing means. The fixing is for example carried out by bolting (preferably with nylon screws) or by a zipper. The arrangement of the cover 2 relative to the inflatable perimeter 3 is such that the cover 2 covers the sheath 30 over its entire upper part out of the water so that only the cover 2 is in contact with the hull of the boat.The fixing of the tarpaulin 2 with the returned part 33 of the sheath 30 of the inflatable perimeter 3 is carried out on the outside of the device beyond the convexity 36 of the sheath, which ensures a seal of the tarpaulin 2 with respect to the water. In addition, in this way, the fixing means 35 do not risk touching and damaging the hull of the boat. Figure 6 illustrates on each side of the inflatable perimeter two examples of embodiments of removable fixing which are in no way limiting.

[0052]

[0046] The tubes 31 are joined to each other inside the sheath 30. They are held for example by separating flanges (not visible here) which are provided with a central orifice through which passes an air supply pipe which feeds each tube. The tubes 31 are connected to each other so that the air circulates from one to the other. The air conveying means are air conveying pipes which are intended to be connected to air supply inlets 37 (shown schematically in dotted lines in FIG. 5) arranged at the ends of the volumes to be inflated 3A, 3B and 3C. Preferably, for the two opposite and facing volumes 3B and 3C, the air supply pipes comprise a common air inlet pipe and two branch pipes (in the manner of a T) which are connected to the two air supply inlets 37 of the two respective volumes 3B and 3C.The common air inlet pipe has an inlet opening into the open air so that it can be connected to an inflation pump outside the water, and can also be opened to allow air to escape in order to deflate the tubes.

[0053]

[0047] The inflatable perimeter 3A associated with the first part 1A of the device may have only one inlet or two inlets 37. The two inlets 37 of the inflatable perimeter 3A of the first part 1A are on each side so that at least one inlet is easily accessible from one or the other side. It is not necessary to use both air inlets at the same time, only one could be suitable, because it is not essential to ensure uniform inflation on both edges of the volume 3A of the inflatable perimeter at the same time (unlike the two opposite volumes 3B and 3C of the inflatable perimeter of the second part 1B). For the inflatable perimeter of the two opposite volumes 3B and 3C associated with the two opposite longitudinal edges of the second part 1B, the inlets 37 are arranged at the end of the two volumes 3B and 3C, at the junction with the inflatable volume 3A of the first part 1A.This arrangement ensures that inflation is initiated from upstream to downstream of the second part IB to ensure inflation gradually towards the opposite distal end 1" of the device. The inflatable protection device 1 comprises air supply pipes (not shown here) which are designed to convey the air concomitantly to the two inlets 37 of the two respective volumes 3B, 3C of the inflatable perimeter associated with the second part IB in order to ensure uniform inflation on the two opposite edges of the inflatable perimeter 3.

[0054]

[0048] With reference to Figures 1 to 5, the inflatable protection device 1 comprises at least three spaced stiffeners 4 which extend along the width of the device in a direction transverse to the length. The stiffeners 4 are arranged below the tarpaulin 2; they are intended to be in the water. The arrangement height of the stiffeners 4 relative to the tarpaulin 2 is adapted according to the draft of the boat. The arrangement height of the stiffeners 4 relative to the tarpaulin is for example of the order of 50 cm for a draft of 40 cm. The stiffeners 4 are for example PVC profiles or tubes.For example, they have a general U-shape, the core of the U corresponding substantially to the width which separates the two longitudinal sides of the device, and the wings of the U which are fixed respectively to the two opposite edges of the inflatable perimeter 3 (on the sheath(s)) are preferably inclined in a divergent manner from the core, as shown diagrammatically in Figure 6.

[0055]

[0049] The number of stiffeners 4 is adapted according to the length of the inflatable protection device 1. At least one stiffener 4 is arranged between each pair of facing buoys 6 so as to ensure the spacing of the buoys. The stiffeners 4 are arranged at the right of the junction lines of the first part 1A and the second part 1B, the sides 10 to 11 and the sides 11 to 12 of the second part 1B. The stiffeners 4 are fixed to the sheath 30, preferably also in a removable manner to be removable from the sheath 30 and ultimately facilitate the handling, transport and storage of the inflatable protection device 1 when not in use. The sheath 30 is provided with straps 35 at the appropriate places where the stiffeners 4 must be fixed.In addition, the inflatable protection device 1 comprises assembly parts 7 which are retained by the straps 35 of the sheath, and onto which the ends of the stiffeners 4 are removably connected (for example by fitting).

[0056]

[0050] The inflatable protection device 1 comprises the weights 5 which are arranged at the lower ends 13 of the panels to be immersed in water during installation of the device (figures 1 and figure 7). A pair of weights 5 is arranged at the stiffener 4 at the junction of the first two panels 10 and 11 of the second part 1B, each of the weights 5 being arranged at each longitudinal edge of the inflatable perimeter 3. The number of weights 5 depends on the length of the device and the number of folded panels that the device comprises, figure 7 illustrates several weights 5 each associated with a lower end 13 of the panels folded in an accordion. The weights 5 are for example fixed to the straps 35. Whatever the length of the inflatable protection device 1, a weight 5 is systematically arranged at the distal end 1" of the second part 1B of the inflatable protection device 1.The ballast 5 arranged furthest from the first part IA, that is to say the ballast of the distal end 1" opposite the first part IA, is of greater weight than the other ballasts so that the second part 1B immediately plunges into the water when the inflatable protection device 1 is put into the water for use.

[0057]

[0051] Furthermore, the inflatable protection device 1 comprises at least one pair of buoys 6, each buoy 6 being arranged opposite one another and on each of the longitudinal edges of the device (figure 5). Each buoy 6 is arranged in line with the upper end 14 which must emerge from the panels of the second part 1B (figures 1 to 3). The number of buoys depends on the length of the device and the number of folded panels that the device comprises; figure 7 illustrates several buoys 6 each associated with an upper end 14 of the panels folded in an accordion.

[0058]

[0052] Variants, in particular on the assembly of the different components of the device, can be envisaged without departing from the scope of the invention as regards the operating principle of the accordion folding of the panels of the second part IB and their deployment by the inflation of the perimeter associated with said second part.

[0059]

[0053] Furthermore, the cover 2 of the first part 1A is in a single plane (water plane) when it is intended to accommodate the bow (plane) of a boat; with regard to the second part 1B, the cover 2 comprises a pocket 23 (figure 4) of geometry adapted to envelop the rudder of the boat and possibly a propeller. Conversely, if the boat is to be received from the rear, the first part 1A will comprise the pocket of geometry adapted to the rudder and possibly to a propeller.

[0060]

[0054] Similarly, the tarpaulin 2 will have suitable dimensions with pockets sized and shaped to protect the keel of a sailboat, the engine of a boat, or any other element projecting from the hull of the boat.

[0061]

[0055] For a catamaran, two inflatable protection devices 1 will be connected by inflatable structures transversely to the longitudinal direction of the devices to correspond to the spacing of the two hulls of the boat. The inflatable structures will for example be of the type of that of the inflatable perimeter of the inflatable protection device of the invention. Air supply pipes will be provided in a suitable manner to supply air to each of the two inflatable perimeters 3 of each device and the transverse direction inflatable structures.

[0062]

[0056] Finally, the inflatable protection device 1 (figure 6) comprises in the cover 2 at least one orifice 8 with a watertight connection, which is intended for the connection of a pump 80 to suck up the water remaining between the boat hull and the cover 2 once the device is fully deployed. Advantageously, the pump 80 is able to be triggered automatically to ensure emptying, because it is connected to a detection system 9 which detects when the distal end 1" of the second part 1B is out of the water. The detection system 9 is arranged at the distal end 1'' of the second part 1B which is the last portion of the inflatable perimeter to be inflated and to emerge from the water. The detection system 9 is of the water level probe type; it detects when the probe is out of the water.

[0063]

[0057] The implementation of the inflatable protection device 1 is as follows.

[0064]

[0058] When not in use, with the stiffeners 4 removed, it is necessary to lay the tarpaulin 2 flat against the ground on the upper side (the one that will not be in contact with the water), to arrange the deflated tubes 31 in the sheath 30 of the inflatable perimeter 3, and to fix the tarpaulin 2 to the sheath 30. The assembly parts 7 are fixed to the straps 35 of the sheath, and the stiffeners 4 are mounted. The buoys 6 on each edge of the device are attached, as well as the ballasts 5. They can be fixed at the straps 35 by fixing means, for example made of stainless steel. A drain pipe is mounted on the sealed connection orifice 8 and will be intended to be connected subsequently to the drain pump 80. The connection orifice 8 is arranged in the bottom of the tarpaulin 2 at the lowest point. The drain pump 80 is attached to the inflatable perimeter 3 via the fixing means 35 or is attached to the dock.

[0059] Once all the components are assembled, the first volume 3A of the first part IA of the inflatable perimeter 3 is inflated on land. Then the assembly is put into the water (figure 1), the first part IA with its inflated volume 3A floats on the water having been moored, while the second part 1B whose volumes 3B and 3C are not inflated, falls into the water substantially vertically thanks to the ballasts 5 while being held along at least one transverse line by said at least one pair of buoys 6. The air supply pipe(s) connected to the air supply inlets 37 of the volumes 3B, 3C of the inflatable perimeter associated with the second part 1B are connected to an air pump, and the drain pipe 80 is connected to the pump 80.

[0065]

[0060] Alternatively, the entire inflatable perimeter 3 may be inflated on land, and then the inflatable protection device 1, which is in its fully inflated state, is placed in the water. Once placed in the water, the inflatable perimeter 3 associated with the second part 1B must be deflated if a boat is to be accommodated.

[0066]

[0061] The reception surface IA can then accommodate the bow of the boat by engaging the boat without requiring great skill because only the end of the boat must be engaged (figure 2). The boat is then moored and remains easily in the first part IA which carries and surrounds only the end of the hull of the boat. The boat is not required to remain static. The remainder of the inflatable perimeter 3 is then inflated (volumes 3B and 3C concomitantly), which gradually allows the deployment of the second part 1B of the tarpaulin 2 (figure 3) which thus advances towards the rear of the boat until it completely envelops the hull of the boat (figure 4). Because the inflatable perimeter 3 inflates gradually, the inflatable protection device 1 automatically adapts to the position of the boat which is not required to remain absolutely static. Inflation is carried out via an air pump. The pressure in the tubes 31 does not exceed 0.07 bar.The inflatable perimeter 3 does not need to be inflated under pressure in the manner of inflation for a semi-rigid inflatable boat of the Zodiac® type or as for the device of document WO2019226056. Once the inflatable perimeter 3 is fully inflated and therefore the hull of the boat is entirely enclosed by the inflatable protection device 1, the probe 9 placed at the distal end 1” of the second part 3B of the inflatable perimeter detects that it is out of the water, which automatically triggers the operation of the water suction pump 80 to drain the remaining water around the hull of the boat and at the bottom of the tarpaulin 2. The pump 80 is able to stop automatically when there is no more water to pump. The hull of the boat is then dry on the inflatable protection device 1 while floating. Note that for a keel boat, there may possibly be a little water left in the pocket 23, without this having any consequences.

[0067]

[0062] When the boat wishes to set sail again, the volumes 3B and 3C of the inflatable perimeter 3 associated with the second part IB of the device are deflated (by opening the air intake inlets 37 so that the air escapes). Thanks to the ballasts 5, said second part IB of the device folds up in an accordion until the cover 2 is uncoupled from the boat. As soon as the rear part of the boat with the rudder is clear, the boat can set off backwards (in particular for a motor boat), even if the inflatable perimeter 3 of the second part IB of the device is not completely deflated. Once the inflatable perimeter 3 of the second part IB of the device is deflated and this second part is folded up in an accordion underwater, the first part IA remains in place without being deflated, the inflatable protection device 1 is ready to be put back into operation.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. Inflatable protective device (1) intended for storing a boat hull in situ on the water, comprising a tarpaulin (2) and an inflatable perimeter (3), and having at least two parts (IA, IB) extending longitudinally between two distal ends (1', 1"), a first part (IA) forming in the position of use of the device a receiving surface on the water capable of receiving a part of the hull of a boat, and a second part (IB) connected to the first part (IA) and capable of being movable in the water to pass by inflation, from a position underwater to a position on the water of coplanar arrangement and longitudinal to the first part (IA) once the inflatable perimeter (3) is inflated, characterized in that the first part (IA) is limited in surface so that in the position of use it is capable of receiving only one distal end of the hull of the boat, and in that the second part (IB) comprises several sides (10, 11,12) which are capable of being folded underwater and of gradually deploying in the manner of an accordion when inflating the perimeter from the first part (IA) towards the distal end (1'') of the second part (IB) opposite the first part, the folded sides (10, 11, 12), when the device is deflated in the water, having an alternation of emerged upper ends (14) and submerged lower ends (13)., 2. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the sides (10, 11, 12) of the second part appear, according to a longitudinal sectional view of the device, in a continuous alternation of at least one V and one inverted V.

3. Device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the inflatable perimeter (3) of the second part (IB) is broken down into two opposite volumes (3B, 3C) forming two respective opposite edges of the inflatable perimeter, the two volumes being capable of being inflated concomitantly from the junction with the first part (IA) to the distal end (1'') of the second part, opposite the first part.

4. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises ballasts (5) distributed along the length of the second part (IB) of the device, in particular according to at least one ballast every two sides, and preferably the device comprising a ballast at the distal end of the second part (1”), which is heavier than the other ballasts.

5. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises at least one pair of buoys (6), the two buoys of a pair being arranged opposite each other on each of two opposite longitudinal edges of the inflatable perimeter of the second part of the device.

6. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises stiffeners (4) which extend transversely to the longitudinal direction of the device, in particular a stiffener (4) being positioned at the junction of the first part (IA) and the second part (IB), and other stiffeners (4) being positioned at the junction lines of adjacent sections (10, 11; 11, 12).

7. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is adjustable in length, in particular the first part (IA) is removable relative to the second part (IB) and the second part (IB) comprises several sections (21, 22) removable from each other, preferably the second part (IB) comprises an end section (22) which corresponds to the end surface of said second part (IB) and at least one intermediate section (21) connecting said end section of the second part (IB) to the first part (IA).

8. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least the tarpaulin (2) and the inflatable perimeter (3) are removable from each other, preferably other components of the device such as inflatable tubes, ballasts and buoys are also removable.

9. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cover (2) comprises at least one sealed connection orifice (8) intended for the connection of a drain pump (80), and in that it comprises a detection system (9) which is arranged at the distal end (1'') of the second part (IB) opposite the first part (IA) and is capable of detecting when said distal end is out of the water, in particular the detection automatically triggering the drain pump (80).

10. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the inflatable perimeter comprises several inflatable tubes joined in a sheath delimiting said inflatable perimeter.

11. Device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the sheath delimiting the inflatable perimeter of the device comprises, on the one hand, a cylindrical part containing the inflatable tubes and which is preferably open longitudinally while being able to be closed with removable fasteners, and on the other hand, a return to which the peripheral edge of the tarpaulin is fixed, preferably the tarpaulin being made integral with the support part by removable fasteners.

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