Float for photovoltaic device

Abstract

Float (1) for a photovoltaic device comprising: a sealed membrane (2) delimiting an internal compartment, and at least one filling material located in the internal compartment, the membrane (2) comprising an external layer of polyisobutylene. Figure 1

Description

Title of the invention: Float for photovoltaic device FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The technical sector of the present invention relates to floating photovoltaic devices intended to be deployed in an aquatic environment such as on a body of water or at sea. The invention particularly relates to the floats equipping the photovoltaic devices and giving them buoyancy. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Photovoltaic structures operated on water, or floating photovoltaic devices, have been widely developed in recent years. They respond both to the need to develop a non-polluting method of energy production and to the desire to preserve arable land and to enhance bodies of water (irrigation basins, lakes, etc.) and industrial wastelands (disused quarries).

[0003] There are currently a number of devices, including the one described in patent application WO2015092237. This is a floating photovoltaic device comprising a structure comprising elements for coupling to other floating devices so as to enable the formation of a network of floating devices, one or more floats intended to ensure the flotation of said structure and elements for holding at least one photovoltaic panel.

[0004] The floats are made of a plastic envelope made of High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), semi-rigid or flexible, and sealingly enclosing a volume of air. They have a relatively large contact surface with the water.

[0005] The main disadvantage of this float is its environmental impact. The use of plastic such as PHD in an aquatic environment involves the release of microplastics which pollute the aquatic environment and disrupt its ecosystem.

[0006] In addition, the float has a relatively large contact surface with the water, which obscures the water and increases the harmful impact on the ecosystem of the aquatic environment.

[0007] Furthermore, the float is filled with air, which means that a perforation of the envelope of the float(s) may cause the device to sink. Such a sinking would cause irreversible pollution of the aquatic environment in addition to a loss of the device's equipment.

[0008] The objective of the present invention is to provide a float for a robust photovoltaic device having a low or even no negative impact, not only on the environment, but especially on the ecosystem and the biotope of the aquatic environment in which it is installed. Statement of the invention

[0009] The invention therefore relates to a float for a photovoltaic device comprising: • a waterproof membrane delimiting an internal compartment, and • at least one filling material located in the internal compartment,

[0010] the membrane comprising an external layer of polyisobutylene.

[0011] The membrane derives its waterproofing from polyisobutylene, a non-polar material, free of plasticizers and with a neutral pH. This material guarantees non-modification of any environment in which the float is intended to be positioned, and in particular in water. It is the only material of the float in direct contact with the external environment. The layer of this polyisobutylene has a Shore A hardness of between 30 and 80 and a maximum elongation at break of 700%. It displays increased resistance to dioxygen, ozone, tearing and abrasion. Polyisobutylene gives the membrane its robustness and reliability over time.

[0012] In this embodiment of the invention, the outer layer comprises an outer surface facing the external environment and an inner surface facing the internal compartment.

[0013] In this particular embodiment, the outer layer is the outermost layer of the membrane. In other words, there is no intermediate layer between the external environment and the outer surface of the outer layer. In other embodiments of the invention, it is possible to provide one or more intermediate layers located on the outer surface of the outer membrane to give the membrane and the float additional characteristics.

[0014] The filling material gives the float its buoyancy. Preferably, it is a solid material or a foam. It has a density lower than that of water. The filling material also gives the float the compressive strength necessary to support a photovoltaic device.

[0015] The float according to the invention has mechanical and physicochemical properties, durability over time and lifespan in contact with water, necessary to accommodate, support and keep a photovoltaic device emerged.

[0016] According to one embodiment of the invention, the external layer of the membrane comprises: - between 20% and 30% by mass of high molecular weight polyisobutylene, - between 30% and 50% by mass of copolymers, - between 20% and 35% by mass of functional and mineralogical aggregates, - between 5% and 10% by mass of titanium dioxide, and - between 0.5% and 2.0% by mass of additives and carbon black.

[0017] According to a characteristic of the invention, the external layer of polyisobutylene is underfaced with an internal layer of a synthetic material, the internal layer facing the internal compartment.

[0018] In this embodiment of the invention, the membrane of the float comprises an inner layer of a synthetic material. The outer layer is underfaced with this inner layer in the sense that the inner layer covers, in whole or in part, the inner surface of the outer layer. The inner layer and the outer layer are connected to each other, for example by heat-sealing. The inner layer comprises an inner surface facing the inner compartment, in particular in contact with the inner compartment. The inner layer comprises an outer surface facing the inner surface of the outer layer and an inner surface facing the inner compartment.

[0019] The inner layer provides additional mechanical strength to the float membrane, thereby enhancing its mechanical strength, durability and reliability. The inner layer is preferably woven fiberglass. For example, it helps prevent the filler material from being released into the external environment in the event of a perforation or tear in the membrane.

[0020] According to another embodiment of the invention, the at least one filling material is waterproof.

[0021] In this embodiment, the filling material is waterproof, which allows the float to remain above water even in the event of perforation of the membrane, which leaves sufficient time for an operator to carry out maintenance operations on the float. Thus, the float according to the invention equipped with a waterproof filling material has a double waterproof seal, one provided by the membrane and one provided by the filling material. In addition, the waterproofness of the filling material makes it possible to limit the possible release of particles from the filling material in the event of a possible perforation of the membrane, and therefore contamination of the external environment.

[0022] According to yet another characteristic of the invention, the at least one filling material has a density of between 10 kg.m3 and 250 kg.m3 and a compressive strength of between 10,000 kPa and 500,000 kPa.

[0023] According to yet another characteristic of the invention, the float has a density of between 35 kg.m3 and 50 kg.m3.

[0024] According to yet another characteristic of the invention, the float has a diameter of between 250 mm and 750 mm.

[0025] According to yet another characteristic of the invention, the float has a volume of between 1.5 m3 and 5 m3.

[0026] The invention also relates to a floating photovoltaic device comprising a photovoltaic device connected to at least one float according to the invention.

[0027] The invention also relates to an array of floating photovoltaic devices comprising at least two floating photovoltaic devices according to the invention connected to each other by means of a connection system.

[0028] Advantageously, the network of floating photovoltaic devices comprises a system for anchoring said network. The anchoring of the network, or of a single floating photovoltaic device, can be carried out on one or more banks and / or at the bottom of the aquatic environment on which it operates.

[0029] An advantage of the present invention lies in the low environmental impact of the float, whether at the level of its manufacture, its use or its recycling.

[0030] Another advantage of the present invention lies in the fact that the use of the float has no harmful impact on the external environment.

[0031] Another advantage of the present invention lies in the fact that the float does not release any microplastic into the external environment.

[0032] Yet another advantage of the present invention lies in the reliability of the float.

[0033] Yet another advantage of the present invention lies in the resistance to per drilling the float.

[0034] Yet another advantage of the present invention lies in the tear resistance of the float.

[0035] Yet another advantage of the present invention lies in the limited contact surface of the float with the water.

[0036] Yet another advantage of the present invention lies in the unsinkability of the float.

[0037] Yet another advantage of the present invention is that it involves low eutrophication of the environment in which it is installed.

[0038] Yet another advantage of the present invention is that it has excellent surface efficiency with the possibility of installing up to 3MWc / ha.

[0039] Another advantage of the present invention is that the buoyancy of the floating photovoltaic device is adaptable to the environment on which it is intended to operate.

[0040] Yet another advantage of the present invention is that it only comprises components that comply with environmental standards.

[0041] Yet another advantage of the present invention is that it has increased stability, making it possible to optimize access and avoid tipping phenomena that could damage the electrical part.

[0042] Yet another advantage of the present invention is that it requires a limited number of anchors.

[0043] Yet another advantage of the present invention lies in its ease of installation on the envisaged production site, for example on the bank adjoining the body of water.

[0044] Yet another advantage of the present invention lies in the ability of the floating photovoltaic device to be beached without damage or to rest on a solid surface, particularly in the event of frost.

[0045] Another advantage of the present invention lies in the fact that the network, through its articulation and its anchors, resists significant tidal ranges without damage. Brief description of the drawings

[0046] Other characteristics, advantages and details of the invention will be better understood on reading the additional description which follows in relation to the drawings in which:

[0047] [Fig-1] represents a float according to an embodiment of the invention,

[0048] [Fig.2] represents a sectional view of the float according to [Fig.l],

[0049] [Fig.3] represents a floating photovoltaic device according to one embodiment of the invention, and

[0050] [Fig.4] represents a network of floating photovoltaic devices according to a mode of realization of the invention.

[0051] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0052] As described above, the invention relates to a float for a photovoltaic device. The float comprises a sealed membrane defining an internal compartment. A filling material is located in the internal compartment.

[0053] The membrane comprises an outer layer of polyisobutylene.

[0054] In the context of the present invention, the term "float" means the means enabling the photovoltaic device to float on the surface of the water. The float has a lower density than the fluid on which it rests. A float according to the invention is designed to support one or more photovoltaic devices and other associated equipment. It makes it possible to maintain the photovoltaic device in a stable position on the surface of the water while resisting weather conditions, external aggressions and hydrodynamic forces.

[0055] In the context of the present invention, the term “photovoltaic device” means a device allowing the production of solar energy by means of one or more photovoltaic panels.

[0056] In the context of the present invention, the term membrane is understood to mean a barrier making it possible to separate two compartments. The membrane according to the invention defines a closed internal compartment, isolated from the external environment such as the atmosphere, water or any other fluid. The membrane according to the invention is waterproof and, more particularly, waterproof in that it prevents water and other fluids from entering the internal compartment.

[0057] The membrane according to the invention can be represented by a single external layer of polyisobutylene. The membrane according to the invention may also comprise an outer layer of polyisobutylene facing the external environment underlain by an inner layer of a synthetic material facing the internal compartment. The membrane may also comprise one or more additional layers.

[0058] In the context of the present invention, polyisobutylene, or butyl rubber, is understood to mean the elastomer resulting from the polymerization of isobutylene units and optionally vulcanized after polymerization. The polyisobutylene layer according to the invention may comprise compounds other than polyisobutylene. The polyisobutylene layer according to the invention does not contain any plasticizer.

[0059] In the context of the present invention, the layer of synthetic material is intended to increase the mechanical resistance (tensile strength, torsion, shear, etc.) of the membrane.

[0060] In the context of the present invention, the term "watertight" means the ability of a means to completely prevent the passage of water, air, other fluids or any type of particles through its material or structure. In the context of the present invention, "watertight" means particularly waterproof, but the use of this term does not exclude waterproofing against other fluids.

[0061] In the context of the present invention, the term “filling material” means any material capable, on the one hand, of giving the float buoyancy on the water and, on the other hand, of giving the float a resistance enabling it to support a photovoltaic device. Thus, the filling material according to the invention has a density of between 10 kg.m3 and 250 kg.m3. The filling material according to the invention has a compressive strength of between 10,000 kPa and 500,000 kPa. The filling material according to the invention has a temperature resistance of between -50°C and 200°C.

[0062] The filling material according to the invention is preferably waterproof so as to prevent the float from sinking in the event of perforation of the membrane. The float is unsinkable even after a possible perforation of the membrane due to the double waterproofing of the float provided by the membrane and the filling material.

[0063] The filling material according to the invention may be chosen from the group consisting of expanded polystyrene, expanded polyethylene, closed-cell polyurethane foam, polypropylene foam, extruded polystyrene foam, neoprene foam and vinyl foam, alone or as a mixture. Thus, the filling material may be a mixture of materials.

[0064] Expanded polystyrene is waterproof, with a density between 15 kg.m 3 and 200 kg.m3 and a compressive strength between 68,000 kPa and 420,000 kPa.

[0065] Expanded polyethylene is also waterproof, it has a density between 30 Kg.m3 and 100 Kg.m3 and a compressive strength between 100,000 kPa and 240,000 kPa.

[0066] Closed-cell polyurethane foam is particularly preferred because it combines buoyancy (low density), robustness (compression and temperature resistance), durability and is waterproof. The closed-cell polyurethane foam according to the invention has: • a density between 30 Kg.m3 and 200 Kg.m3, • a compressive strength of between 135,000 kPa and 207,000 kPa, • temperature resistance between -50°C and 100°C, • a waterproof character, and • a durable character in that it retains its physical properties over a long period.

[0067] Thus, a float according to the embodiment of the invention in which the filling material is closed-cell polyurethane foam has all the characteristics of closed-cell polyurethane foam, in addition to the characteristics of the membrane.

[0068] Polypropylene foam is waterproof, it has a density between 60 Kg.m 3 and 200 Kg.m 3 and a compressive strength between 100,000 kPa and 200,000 kPa.

[0069] Extruded polystyrene foam is also waterproof, with a density between 30 kg.m3 and 100 kg.m3 and a compressive strength between 75,000 kPa and 415,000 kPa.

[0070] The waterproof neoprene foam has a density of between 40 kg.m 3 and 120 kg.m 3 and a compressive strength of between 30,000 kPa and 175,000 kPa.

[0071] The waterproof vinyl foam has a density of between 50 kg.m3 and 200 kg.m3 and a compressive strength of between 13,000 kPa and 100,000 kPa.

[0072] The choice of filling material depends, for example, on the nature of the aquatic environment (fresh water, salt water, etc.) in which the float is to operate, the climatic conditions (wind, snow, swell, etc.) of the geographical area as well as the load that it must support.

[0073] [Fig.l] represents a float 1 according to an embodiment of the invention. The float 1 has a length L and a volume.

[0074] The length L of the float 1 depends on the desired lift and buoyancy of the float 1. The length L is in particular a function of the mass of the photovoltaic device (not shown in [Fig.l]) intended to be installed on the float 1. The length L can also be a function of the density of the filling material used. Length L can also be a function of the volume of the float 1. Length L can also be a function of the nature of the aquatic environment on which the float L rests

[0075] The length L is preferably between 1000 cm and 15,000 cm. This makes it possible to provide a float 1 having minimal bulk and sufficient lift to keep a photovoltaic device emerging.

[0076] The volume of the float 1 is also a function of the desired lift and buoyancy of the float 1. The volume is preferably between 1.5 m3 and 5 m3. This makes it possible to provide a float 1 having minimal bulk and sufficient lift to keep a photovoltaic device in the water. The volume of the float 1 defines the buoyancy index of the float 1 and, ultimately, of the floating photovoltaic device. The volume of the float 1 makes it possible to precisely calculate the maximum stresses admissible by the float 1.

[0077] The float 1 preferably has a circular or oblong section with a diameter D of between 250 mm and 750 mm. This shape is particularly preferred, because it makes it possible to minimize the contact surface between the float 1 and the liquid on which it rests. Preferably, the percentage of surface area of ​​the float 1 in contact with the aquatic environment is less than 20%. This makes it possible to limit the impact of the float 1 on the biotope of the aquatic environment on which it rests. The circular shape is particularly preferred, because it makes it possible to limit the suction effect in the event of the float 1 running aground.

[0078] The float 1 has a density allowing it to float on any type of aquatic environment while ensuring long-term support for the photovoltaic device that it supports. The density is preferably between 35 Kg.m3 and 50 Kg.m3. The choice of the density of the float 1 depends on several parameters including the mass of the photovoltaic device(s) intended to be installed on the float 1, but also its wind resistance. The choice of density also depends on the nature of the aquatic environment on which the float rests, the geographical area in which it is installed and / or the climate of the geographical area.

[0079] According to the embodiment of the float 1 shown in [Fig.l], the float 1 has an elongated circular shape with a length L greater than the diameter D. This shape is particularly preferred, because it makes it possible to limit the suction and aspiration phenomena of the float 1 resting on a body of water. This also gives the float 1 resistance to significant tidal ranges.

[0080] The float 1 according to the invention may also have an oblong, square, rectangular, oval or any other shape section.

[0081] The float 1 comprises a waterproof membrane 2 delimiting an internal compartment (not visible in [Fig.l]). Membrane 2 is preferably waterproof. It can also be waterproof to certain gases or fluids. Membrane 2 gives float 1 its waterproofness and robustness. Membrane 2 does not contain plasticizers or PVC and does not release microplastics into the aquatic environment on which float 1 rests. Membrane 2 is resistant to roots and rhizomes without the use of herbicides. Membrane 2 has high resistance to perforation and stretching. Membrane 2 is permanently resistant to UV rays.

[0082] The membrane 2 comprises an external layer of polyisobutylene giving it its robustness and its watertightness.

[0083] The membrane 2 delimits an internal compartment (not visible in [Fig.l]) intended to be filled with a filling material (not visible in [Fig.l]).

[0084] The filling material has a density. The filling material gives the float 1 its buoyancy.

[0085] The membrane 2 may also comprise an internal layer arranged between the internal compartment and the external layer. The internal layer is preferably attached to the external layer. The internal layer is preferably intended to increase the resistance to perforation and stretching of the membrane 2.

[0086] Thus, the float 1 can be deployed on sites that are mainly dry. Its resistant membrane 2 allows it to rest, in whole or in part, on a non-aquatic environment (earth, bank) without being damaged. The float 1 can, for example, rest on water at high tide and on land at low tide without being damaged.

[0087] The buoyancy of the float 1 can be adapted by modifying the length L, the volume, the shape of the section of the float 1, the diameter D, the density of the float 1 and / or the density of the filling material.

[0088] This makes it possible to provide floats 1 adaptable to any type of project, in particular depending on the type of photovoltaic device intended to be installed on the float 1, the aquatic environment on which the float 1 rests, the geographical area and / or the climate of the area where the float 1 is installed.

[0089] [Fig. 2] represents a sectional view of the float 1 according to the embodiment of the float shown in [Fig. 1]. The membrane 2 comprises an outer layer 21 of polyisobutylene underlain by an inner layer 22. The inner layer 22 may be made of any material making it possible to increase the puncture resistance, the robustness and / or the stretch resistance of the membrane 2. The inner layer 22 is for example made of a synthetic material.

[0090] According to the embodiment of the invention shown in [Fig.2], the inner layer 22 is made of glass fibers, woven or not. The inner layer 22 is heat-bonded to the outer layer 21. The inner compartment 3 is filled with a filling material represented by closed-cell polyurethane.

[0091] Thus, the float 1 according to the embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 2 has: • a length of 5000 cm, • a volume of 1.5 m3, • a density of 45 kg.m3, • a diameter D of 400 mm.

[0092] The membrane 2 according to the invention may be the membrane marketed under the brand name Rhepanol®.

[0093] The float 1 according to the invention can be obtained according to the following method: • providing a preformed membrane 2 having an opening, • filling, for example by injection, of the membrane 2 with a material of filling, for example closed-cell polyurethane, and • sealing the opening of the membrane 2 so as to create an internal compartment 3 comprising the filling material.

[0094] The float 1 can therefore be designed directly on the operating site. Its transport to the site is greatly facilitated and ecological in that its transport produces less greenhouse gas than if it were transported assembled.

[0095] The float 1 according to the invention is capable of receiving and maintaining a photovoltaic device in the surface. The float 1 according to the invention can support a maximum load of 500 kg.

[0096] [Fig.3] represents a floating photovoltaic device 4 according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0097] The floating photovoltaic device 4 comprises a plurality of photovoltaic panels 5 connected to two floats 1a and 1b as described previously. The floats 1a and 1b are preferably arranged in parallel.

[0098] The floating photovoltaic device 4 according to [Fig. 3] comprises two beams 6a and 6b each respectively arranged on the floats 1a and 1b. The beams 6a and 6b are preferably made of metal. The beams 6a and 6b have a profile comprising a lower face matching the shape of the floats 1a and 1b so as to facilitate the connection between the beams 6a and 6b and the floats 1a and 1b. The beams 6a and 6b are preferably removably fixed, at their lower face, to the floats 1a and 1b, for example by means of straps (not shown in [Fig. 3]).

[0099] First connecting bars 7a to 7e connect the beams 6a and 6b together in that they comprise two ends, each connected to a beam 6a or 6b. The first connecting bars 7a to 7e are preferably made of metal. The first connecting bars 7a to 7e are arranged along the entire length of the beams 6a and 6b and at regular intervals. The first connecting bars 7a to 7e are preferably partially parallel to each other and perpendicular to the beams 6a and 6b. The first connecting bars 7a to 7e make it possible to assemble two floats 1a and 1b in parallel to each other, by means of the beams 6a and 6b. The first connecting bars 7a to 7e are preferably fixed at their lower face and removably to the upper surface of the beams 6a and 6b. The upper surface of the beams 6a and 6b is the surface opposite the lower surface of the beams 6a and 6b.

[0100] Spacers 8a to 8d connect the first connecting bars 7a to 7e to each other. Each spacer 8a to 8b is connected to each end of two successive first connecting bars 7a to 7e. Thus, the spacer 8a connects the ends of the first connecting bars 7a and 7b, the spacer 8b connects the ends of the first connecting bars 7b and 7c, the spacer 8c connects the ends of the first connecting bars 7c and 7d, the spacer 8d connects the ends of the first connecting bars 7d and 7e. The spacers 8a to 8d are preferably made of metal. The spacers 8a to 8d make it possible to consolidate the connection between the floats 1a and 1b. The spacers 8a to 8d also make it possible to create a robust, reliable and removable structure consisting of the beams 6a and 6b, the first connecting bars 7a to 7e and the spacers 8a to 8d.

[0101] This structure is fixed, by means of the beams 6a and 6b, in a removable manner to the floats 1a and 1b which are then connected to each other in parallel. The structure forms a plane parallel to the plane formed by the floats 1a and 1b. Thus, when the floating photovoltaic device 4 rests on a body of water or on a solid surface, the structure is in a plane parallel to the plane comprising the surface of the body of water or of the solid surface.

[0102] First support bars 9a to 9e are arranged at the ends of the first connecting bars 7a to 7e connected to the beam 6a. The first support bars 9a to 9e are preferably made of metal. The first support bars 9a to 9e are arranged on the ends of the first connecting bars 7a to 7e directly above the beam 6a. The first support bars 9a to 9e are arranged perpendicular to the plane formed by the first connecting bars 7a to 7e. The first support bars 9a to 9e are removably attached to the upper surface of the first connecting bars 7a to 7e. The upper surface of the first connecting bars 7a to 7e is the surface opposite the lower surface of the first connecting bars 7a to 7e. The first support bars 9a to 9e each have a lower end connected to a first connecting bar 7a to 7e.The first support bars 9a to 9e extend, from the first connecting bars 7a to 7e, in a direction perpendicular to the plane formed by the first connecting bars 7a to 7e and opposite the float 1a.

[0103] Second support bars 10a to 10e are arranged at the ends of the first connecting bars 7a to 7e connected to the beam 6b. The second bars support 10a to 10e are connected to the ends of the first connecting bars 7a to 7e opposite the ends connected to the first support bars 9a to 9e. The second support bars 10a to 10e are preferably made of metal. The second support bars 10a to 10e are arranged on the ends of the first connecting bars 7a to 7e directly above the beam 6b. The second support bars 10a to 10e are arranged perpendicular to the plane formed by the first connecting bars 7a to 7e. The second support bars 10a to 10e are removably fixed to the upper surface of the first connecting bars 7a to 7e. The second support bars 10a to 10e each have a lower end connected to a first connecting bar 7a to 7e.The second support bars 10a to 10e extend, from the first connecting bars 7a to 7e, in a direction perpendicular to the plane formed by the first connecting bars 7a to 7e and opposite the float 1b.

[0104] The first support bars 9a to 9e and the second support bars 10a to 10e are all parallel to each other. Each first connecting bar 7a to 7e comprises, respectively, on each of its ends, a first support bar 9a to 9e and a second support bar 10a to 10e.

[0105] The length of the first support bars 9a to 9e is strictly less than the length of the second support bars 10a to 10e.

[0106] Second connecting bars 11a to 11e connect the upper ends of the first support bars 9a to 9e and the second support bars 10a to 10e. The second connecting bars 11a to 11e are preferably made of metal. Each of the second connecting bars 11a to 11e is respectively removably fixed on the one hand to the upper end of a first support bar 9a to 9e and, on the other hand, to the upper end of a first support bar 10a to 10e. Thus, the second connecting bar 11a connects the upper end of the first support bar 9a to the upper end of the second support bar 10a. The second connecting bar 11b connects the upper end of the first support bar 9b to the upper end of the second support bar 10b.The second connecting bar 11e connects the upper end of the first support bar 9c to the upper end of the second support bar 10c. The second connecting bar 11d connects the upper end of the first support bar 9d to the upper end of the second support bar 10d. The second connecting bar 11e connects the upper end of the first support bar 9e to the upper end of the second support bar 10e.

[0107] The length of the first support bars 9a to 9e being strictly less than the length of the second support bars 10a to 10e, the second connecting bars 11a to 11e are inclined relative to the first connecting bars 7a to 7e according to a angle a. Angle a is preferably between 5° and 30°.

[0108] Support bars 12a to 12e connect the second connecting bars 11a to 11e to each other. The support bars 12a to 12e are preferably made of metal. The support bars 12a to 12e are arranged along the entire length of the second connecting bars 11a to 11e and at regular intervals. The support bars 12a to 12e are preferably parallel to each other and to the beams 6a and 6b and perpendicular to the second connecting bars 11a to 11e. The support bars 12a to 12e are removably attached to the second connecting bars 11a to 11e. Each support bar 12a to 12e is attached to each of the second connecting bars 11a to 11e. The support bars 12a to 12e are therefore inclined relative to the first connecting bars 7a to 7e at the angle α. The support bars 12a to 12e are intended to receive a plurality of photovoltaic panels 5.

[0109] All of the metal parts of the photovoltaic device 4 are, for example, made of steel. The metal parts of the photovoltaic device 4 may be made of steel and coated with a zinc-aluminum-magnesium alloy providing resistance to corrosion in very aggressive environments.

[0110] The assembly consisting of the beams 6a and 6b, the first connecting bars 7a to 7e, the spacers 8a to 8d, the first support bars 9a to 9e, the second support bars 10a to 10e, the second connecting bars 11a to 11e and the support bars 12a to 12e forms a receiving structure for photovoltaic panels 5 on floats 1a and 1b. This structure is completely removable in that all the fixings between its components are removable. It is easily transportable. The receiving structure, and therefore the floating photovoltaic device 5, can easily and quickly be assembled on the production site or close to the production site. The particular design of this structure is such that it can accommodate a wide range of photovoltaic panels 5, and in particular photovoltaic panels 5 with bifacial technology.

[0111] The photovoltaic panels 5 are removably attached to the support bars 12a to 12e by means of removable fasteners (not shown in [Fig.3]).

[0112] Thus the photovoltaic panels 5 are also inclined relative to the first connecting bars 7a to 7e according to the angle a. When the floating photovoltaic device 4 floats on a body of water or on a solid surface, the photovoltaic panels 5 are inclined relative to the plane formed by the body of water or the solid surface.

[0113] The floats 1a and 1b give the floating photovoltaic device 4 an unsinkable character.

[0114] It goes without saying that the number of means described in the floating photovoltaic device 4 according to the embodiment of [Fig.3] is adaptable according to the length and / or the number of floats 1a and 1b. Thus the number of first connecting bars 7a to 7e and spacers 8a to 8d is adaptable according to the length of floats 1a and 1b, the number of first connecting bars 7a to 7e and spacers 8a to 8d decreasing when the length of floats 1a and 1b decreases and the number of first connecting bars 7a to 7e and spacers 8a to 8d increasing when the length of floats 1a and 1b increases.

[0115] [Fig.4] represents a view of an array 13 of floating photovoltaic devices 4 according to the different embodiments of the invention. The array 13 is installed on a body of water 15. The array 13 is anchored on the banks 14 of the body of water by means of an anchoring system 16a, 16b.

[0116] In the embodiment of the network 13 shown in [Fig.4], the network 13 comprises two rows 41 and 42 of photovoltaic devices 4. Each row 41 and 42 comprises a plurality of photovoltaic devices 4 arranged in parallel.

[0117] A connection system 17a, 17b makes it possible to connect the photovoltaic devices 4 together so as to structure and solidify the network 13. A connection system 17a makes it possible to connect the photovoltaic devices 4 of the same row 41 or 42. A connection system 17b makes it possible to connect the photovoltaic devices 4 of different rows 41 or 42.

[0118] To connect two adjacent floating photovoltaic devices 4 of the same row 41 or 42, the connecting system 17a may be represented by one or more third connecting bars 171 connecting a beam 6a or 6b of a floating photovoltaic device 4 to a beam 6a or 6b of an adjacent floating photovoltaic device 4. The third connecting bar 171 is preferably made of metal. The third connecting bar 171 is removably fixed on the one hand to a beam 6a or 6b of a floating photovoltaic device 4 and, on the other hand, to a beam 6a or 6b of an adjacent floating photovoltaic device 4. In order to strengthen the connection between two floating photovoltaic devices 4, in particular when an anchoring system 16a is located between two floating photovoltaic panels 4, a spacer 172 can be added between two adjacent third connection bars 171.This makes it possible to strengthen the network 13 at points where mechanical stresses are higher.

[0119] To connect two adjacent floating photovoltaic devices 4 of different rows 41 and 42, the connection system 17b can be represented by a maintenance walkway 173. Each photovoltaic device 4 is then connected to the maintenance walkway 173 by means of a third connection bar 171 connecting the end of a beam 6a or 6b to the maintenance walkway 173.

[0120] Thus, the network 13 of floating photovoltaic devices 4 according to the invention comprises at least two floating photovoltaic devices 4. The two floating photovoltaic devices 4 can be located in the same row 41 or 42 or in different rows 41 or 42.

[0121] The network 13 according to the invention allows a modular deployment of identical or slightly different floating photovoltaic devices 4. Its installation is greatly facilitated on site by assembling floating photovoltaic devices 4 in rows 41 and 42 and / or rows 41 and 42 of floating photovoltaic devices 4 together.

[0122] According to the embodiment of the invention shown in [Fig.4], the network 13 of floating photovoltaic devices 4 comprises at least one anchoring system 16a, 16b of the network 13 on the bank 14 of the body of water 15.

[0123] An anchoring system 16a is located between two adjacent floating photovoltaic devices 4 of the same row 41 or 42. The anchoring system 16a can be represented by a reinforcing bar 161 connecting the ends of the beams 6a or 6b of two adjacent floating photovoltaic devices 4. An anchoring bar 162 connects the reinforcing bar 161 to a pile 163 driven into the bank 14. The reinforcing bars 161 and anchoring bars 162 are preferably made of metal. The reinforcing bar 161 is removably attached to the ends of the beams 6a or 6b of two floating photovoltaic devices 4 as well as to the anchoring bar 163. The anchoring bar 162 is removably attached to the reinforcing bar 161 and to the pile 163.The connection between the anchor bar 162 and the reinforcement bar 161 as well as the connection between the anchor bar 162 and the pile 163 allow a rotational movement of the anchor bar 162 relative to the pile 163 and relative to the reinforcement bar 161. This rotation allows the network 13 to resist tidal movements.

[0124] When the network 13 according to the invention comprises a maintenance walkway 173, an anchoring system 16b is connected to the maintenance walkway 173. The anchoring system 16b can be represented by an access walkway 164 connected on the one hand to a pile system 165 and, on the other hand, to a free end of the maintenance walkway 173. The pile system 165 is driven into the bank 14. The access walkway 164 is preferably made of metal. The access walkway 164 is removably attached to the maintenance walkway 173. The access walkway 164 is removably attached to the pile system 165. The connection between the access walkway 164 and the maintenance walkway 173 as well as the connection between the access walkway 164 and the pile system 165 allow rotational movement of the access walkway 164 relative to the maintenance walkway 173 and relative to the pile system 165.This rotation allows network 13 to withstand tidal fluctuations.

[0125] The particular design of the network 13 according to the invention and in particular its resistance to environmental aggressions conferred by the intrinsic resistance to environmental aggressions of each floating photovoltaic device 4 means that it requires a limited number of anchoring systems. This further allows the network 13 to withstand significant tidal ranges.

[0126] The invention as described above is particularly suitable for use on bodies of water.

Claims

Claims

1. Float (1) for photovoltaic device comprising: • a sealed membrane (2) delimiting an internal compartment (3), and • at least one filling material located in the internal compartment (3), characterized in that the membrane (2) comprises an external layer (21) of polyisobutylene.

2. Float (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the external layer (21) of polyisobutylene is underfaced with an internal layer (22) of a synthetic material, the internal layer (22) being opposite the internal compartment (3).

3. Float (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the at least one filling material is waterproof.

4. Float (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one filling material has a density of between 10 Kg.m3 and 250 Kg.m3 and a compressive strength of between 10000 kPa and 500000 kPa.

5. Float (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it has a density of between 35 Kg.m 3 and 50 Kg.m3.

6. Float (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it has a diameter (D) of between 250 mm and 750 mm.

7. Float (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that it has a volume of between 1.5 m3 and 5 m3.

8. Floating photovoltaic device (4) comprising a photovoltaic device (5) connected to at least one float (1) according to any one of the preceding claims.

9. Array (13) of floating photovoltaic devices (4) comprising at least two floating photovoltaic devices (4) according to claim 8 connected to each other by means of a connection system (17a, 17b).

10. Network (13) according to claim 9, characterized in that it comprises an anchoring system (16a, 16b) for said network (13).

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