floating vessel

Abstract

The invention relates to a floating craft (1) comprising: - two longitudinal floats (2a, 2b), arranged in a catamaran configuration, and designed to provide an upper surface (5a, 5b) for accommodating persons; - a demountable supporting structure (9) formed of profiles connecting the two floats (2a, 2b), and defining, with the inner faces of the floats (2a, 2b), a tunnel (11) of height H and width L, the supporting structure (9) comprising at least one platform (12) disposed between the two floats (2a, 2b) and partially delimiting the tunnel (11), the supporting structure (9) also defining a maintenance area (13) forming an empty space between the two floats (2a, 2b). Figure 1

Description

Title of the invention: floating craft FIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of maintenance of floating installations, and in particular floating photovoltaic installations. More specifically, the present invention concerns a floating vessel for the maintenance of installations, advantageously modular and floating. TECHNOLOGICAL BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Document WO 2022 / 242858 describes a floating photovoltaic system, comprising rows of solar panels mounted on modular structures, arranged in parallel series on bodies of water such as reservoirs, lakes or industrial basins.

[0003] For the maintenance and upkeep of these installations, the system incorporates a dedicated floating vessel, designed to allow operators to access the photovoltaic panels by using the access routes located between the rows of panels.

[0004] This floating craft consists of two flotation elements connected to each other to form a stable catamaran-type platform. This type of design allows the craft to position itself parallel to the rows of panels to carry out cleaning, repair, or replacement of defective panels.

[0005] Despite these initial advantages, this floating craft has several notable disadvantages which limit its efficiency, practicality and ergonomics for users in various working conditions.

[0006] The craft can only be transported in one piece, which poses logistical challenges, particularly for facilities located in remote or difficult-to-access areas. Furthermore, its size limits its ability to be stored efficiently, especially when the craft is not in service or outside of operational periods.

[0007] Moreover, each body of water has specific characteristics, particularly in terms of depth, surface area and size, which often requires adjustments to the size or structure of the vessel to meet the specific requirements of the site.

[0008] Finally, the craft described in document WO 2022 / 242858 is not designed for maintenance operations requiring frequent changes of equipment or materials. Storage space on the platform is limited and does not allow for optimal organization of tools and spare parts. The Operators may therefore be forced to make trips back and forth between the shore and the boat to retrieve additional equipment, which reduces the productivity of the operations.

[0009] In conclusion, the floating craft described in document WO 2022 / 242858 has significant limitations that reduce its practicality and ergonomics. Its design complicates its transport, storage, and adaptation to site conditions.

[0010] Thus, one object of the present invention is to propose a floating craft for which the ergonomics are improved compared to the craft known from the prior art.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to propose a floating vessel whose transport is simplified compared to the vessel known from the prior art.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is to provide a floating vessel whose dimensions can be adapted. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The objectives of the present invention are, at least in part, achieved by a floating craft which comprises:

[0014] - two longitudinal floats, arranged in a catamaran configuration, and designed to provide a larger area for accommodating people;

[0015] - a demountable supporting structure formed of profiles linking the two floats, and defining, with internal faces of the floats, a tunnel of a height H and a width L, the supporting structure includes at least one platform arranged between the two floats and partially delimiting the tunnel, the supporting structure also defines a so-called maintenance zone forming an empty space between the two floats.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the tunnel is configured to allow the movement of the vessel along a row of fixed floating modules, these being positioned in the tunnel during navigation.

[0017] According to one embodiment, each float is formed of elementary modules assembled together according to the direction of elongation of said float.

[0018] According to one embodiment, said vessel includes a winch supported by a profile, referred to as a maintenance profile, of one of at least one platform and arranged to allow the handling of tools and / or loads in the maintenance area.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the winch is in sliding connection with the maintenance profile.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the supporting structure forms guardrails on a perimeter external to the boat, the guardrails comprise external horizontal profiles held to the floats by external vertical profiles.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the supporting structure comprises a bar mounted on two adjacent external vertical profiles, referred to respectively as the first external profile and the second external profile, the bar being pivotally mounted by one of its ends to one of the first external profile and the second external profile, and by the other of its ends linked to the other of the first external profile and the second external profile by a locking means, the bar being disposed at an intermediate level between the horizontal profiles and the upper surface, advantageously, the first profile and the second profile are disposed on one end of one of the floats.

[0022] According to one embodiment, at least one platform comprises horizontal profiles, referred to as intermediate horizontal profiles, supported partly by external vertical profiles, and partly by internal vertical profiles, the intermediate horizontal profiles forming a frame, essentially rectangular, on which rests a support panel.

[0023] According to one embodiment, each float has a flat bottom.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the vessel includes a mooring system located on a forward part of each float, said mooring system includes a hook or metal ring allowing the boat to be secured when anchored to a fixed point.

[0025] According to one embodiment, a module located at the ends of each float has a beveled shape, with an angle other than 90° with respect to an upper surface of said floats, so as to improve the hydrodynamics and maneuverability of the boat while reducing water resistance during movement.

[0026] The beveled shape allows for easier docking of the boat on the banks.

[0027] According to one embodiment, guide wheels are fixed to the internal surfaces of the two floats, allowing linear alignment of the vessel along a row of floating photovoltaic panels.

[0028] According to one embodiment, additional wheels are mounted on the floats arranged to allow the said vessel to be rolled.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the profiles forming the load-bearing structure are fixed to each other by reversible fastening means; advantageously, the reversible fastening means comprise screwing means and / or clipping means. Brief description of the drawings

[0030] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the detailed description that follows, with reference to the accompanying figures in which:

[0031] [Fig-1] Fig. 1 is a schematic, perspective representation of an example of a boat according to the present invention;

[0032] [Fig.2] Fig.2 is a schematic representation of one of the floats of the boat of [Fig.1], the float is notably represented in perspective;

[0033] [Fig.3] The [Fig.3] represents the vessel of the [Fig.1] according to a front view;

[0034] [Fig.4] Fig.4 represents the vessel of Fig.1 from another view. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0035] The floating vessel is designed to meet the specific installation and maintenance needs of rows of photovoltaic panels on bodies of water.

[0036] In [Fig.1], an example of a floating craft 1 according to the present invention can be seen.

[0037] This structure is demountable.

[0038] By "dismountable," we mean a vessel that can be disassembled without breaking any of the connections that ensure the cohesion of its structure. This term also includes a vessel that can be reassembled, either identically or differently, in order to adjust its dimensions and / or characteristics. It is therefore understood that the vessel has few, if any, welds.

[0039] It is designed to operate efficiently in environments such as lakes, reservoirs, or industrial basins, where it offers a stable and versatile platform.

[0040] The structure of the vessel rests on two longitudinal floats 2a, 2b in a catamaran configuration, creating a wide and stable base, essential for ensuring the safety and comfort of the technicians during operations. In particular, each float 2a, 2b extends between a first end 3a, 3b and a second end 4a, 4b.

[0041] Each float 2a, 2b has a flat bottom, a feature that increases the boat's stability on the water. The flat bottom allows for a uniform distribution of weight, which significantly reduces the risk of capsizing or instability, even when the boat is loaded with photovoltaic panels or heavy equipment.

[0042] This type of bottom is designed to offer increased lateral stability, minimizing the effect of currents or slight waves, which is particularly beneficial during operations requiring maximum stability, such as the replacement of damaged panels.

[0043] The floats can be made of highly corrosion-resistant materials, such as anodized aluminum or fiberglass-reinforced composites. Each float 2a, 2b also includes an upper surface 5a, 5b, opposite the flat bottom, for accommodating people.

[0044] Each float 2a, 2b can be symmetrical and comprise two bows, and in particular two straight bows. This configuration allows stable navigation in either direction defined by the elongation direction of the floats.

[0045] Each float 2a, 2b may include a removable assembly of elementary modules, allowing, as needed, the length of said floats 2a, 2b to be adjusted.

[0046] In particular, each float 2a, 2b may comprise one or more central elementary modules 6, and two end elementary modules 7. In particular, each end elementary module 7 comprises one or the other of the bows.

[0047] The inclusion of bows improves the hydrodynamics and maneuverability of the craft. By reducing water resistance during movement, each bow allows for smoother gliding across the water's surface, thus reducing the effort required to position the craft. Furthermore, this design plays a protective role, as it absorbs impacts during maneuvers near fixed structures. By distributing impact forces more evenly, this shape limits the risk of deformation or structural damage in the event of collisions with docks or other floating installations. The bows also contribute to the craft's stability during maneuvers, enabling tighter turns, which is particularly advantageous in confined working spaces.

[0048] To ensure secure and easy mooring of the craft, a mooring system 8a, 8b can be integrated into the front of the floats 2a, 2b. This mooring system may include metal hooks or rings, securely attached to the structure of the floats, allowing the craft to be held in place during operations. These anchor points can be made of stainless steel or aluminum for optimal resistance to corrosion and tensile forces.

[0049] The hooks, often angled to facilitate attachment, allow technicians to quickly secure the boat to a dock, bollard, or other stable mooring structures, even in current conditions. The mooring rings are also equipped with pivots allowing for some flexibility of movement, which is useful for preventing cable twisting in the event of slight boat oscillation due to waves. The mooring system ensures that the boat remains precisely positioned during operations, minimizing the risk of accidental movement. It is also designed to allow for rapid detachment should immediate relocation be necessary, which can be essential in emergency situations or sudden changes in weather conditions.

[0050] The craft 1 also includes a supporting structure 9 securing the floats together. The supporting structure 9 is specifically designed to be entirely It is demountable, thus offering great flexibility in use and transport. It comprises profiles, for example metallic, generally made of aluminum or stainless steel, which are fixed together by reversible fastening means. These reversible fastening means allow for quick and easy assembly, as well as equally easy disassembly for transport or storage of the vessel.

[0051] Reversible fastening means may advantageously include screwing means and / or clipping means.

[0052] Depending on the requirements, reinforcement systems can be integrated into the profile joints to ensure increased stability. These reinforcement systems 18 can include brackets and / or struts ([Fig. 3]). These ensure overall rigidity, even when heavy or bulky loads, such as photovoltaic panels, are handled.

[0053] The supporting structure 9 defines, with internal faces 10a and 10b of the floats, a tunnel 11 of a height H and a width L.

[0054] The supporting structure 9 includes at least one platform 12 arranged between the two floats 2a, 2b. In particular, and partially delimiting the tunnel 11, the supporting structure also defines a so-called maintenance zone 13 ([Fig.3]) forming an empty space between the two floats.

[0055] By "empty space" is meant a space devoid of structures or profiles and allowing an operator to access, for example, panels moving in the tunnel.

[0056] In the example illustrated in [Fig.1], the supporting structure 9 comprises two platforms 12.

[0057] The supporting structure 9 includes guardrails 14 on a perimeter external to the craft 1 to ensure the safety of persons on the upper surface. These guardrails, for example made of aluminum or stainless steel, can be reinforced to withstand potential impacts.

[0058] In particular, the guardrails 14 include external horizontal profiles 15 are held to the floats by external vertical profiles 16. In particular, the external vertical profiles 16 can extend perpendicularly to the upper surface 5a, 5b of each of two floats. The external vertical profiles 5a, 5b can be attached to the floats by interlocking, by fastening means, via a sliding connection, and locked with a screw. The guardrails 14 can also, in a complementary and / or alternative manner, include chains, for example, connecting external vertical profiles 16.

[0059] The external horizontal profiles 15 follow the contour of the boat at a distance determined by the external vertical profiles. More specifically, the External horizontal profiles 15 are fixed to the free ends of external vertical profiles 16.

[0060] By "free end" is meant an end opposite to the end by which the external vertical profile is fixed to the float.

[0061] Advantageously, and as illustrated in [Fig.3], the load-bearing structure 9 may comprise a bar mounted on two adjacent external vertical profiles, referred to respectively as the first external profile and the second external profile.

[0062] The bar 17 is pivotally mounted by one of its ends to one of the first external profile and the second external profile, and by the other of its ends linked to the other of the first external profile and the second external profile by a locking means, the bar being disposed at an intermediate level between the horizontal external profiles 15 and the upper surface 5a, 5b.

[0063] By way of example, the first external profile and the second external profile are arranged on one end of one of the floats, for example at the first end 3a, 4b of a float.

[0064] It is possible to consider a bar 17 and first external profile and second external profile for each of the floats.

[0065] A platform 12 according to the present invention may include horizontal profiles, called intermediate horizontal profiles 19, supported partly by external vertical profiles 16, and partly by two internal vertical profiles 20. The intermediate horizontal profiles form in particular a frame, essentially rectangular, on which rests a support panel 21.

[0066] The internal vertical profiles 20 each extend from an internal edge of a float.

[0067] Each platform 12 can serve as a base for spare equipment, tools or photovoltaic panels, providing optimal stability during interventions.

[0068] Either of the platforms 12 can form a walkway allowing users to pass from one float to the other. This walkway can also be equipped with ladders, each resting on a float.

[0069] The consideration of ladders allows easy passage of operators / users from one float to another, but also facilitates maintenance operations from either of the platforms equipped with said ladders.

[0070] This last aspect makes assembly and / or maintenance operations easier. Indeed, the passage of an operator / user on a platform allows intervention, for example during a maintenance operation, on the entire surface of panels, for example photovoltaic panels.

[0071] The other platform may be designed to receive / support panels, in particular photovoltaic panels, and be equipped with a system for lifting said panels. More specifically, the lifting system may be designed for handling the panels.

[0072] The lifting system and / or winch facilitates the positioning of panels. This latter aspect meets ergonomic criteria and limits handling by operators. This helps reduce the risk of musculoskeletal injuries to operators.

[0073] One or both of the platforms can be adapted to accommodate a stretcher. More specifically, the distance between the guardrails, and in particular the vertical profiles, and the intermediate horizontal profiles 19 can be adjusted to allow the passage of a stretcher onto the platform.

[0074] The craft can thus be used as an intervention craft for the evacuation of victims.

[0075] To facilitate load handling, a winch 22 is mounted on a profile, referred to as a maintenance profile, which forms the chassis of one of the platforms 12. More specifically, the maintenance profile is perpendicular to the direction of elongation of the floats. This winch 22 can, in particular, be mounted with a sliding connection, allowing lateral movement along the maintenance profile, which is essential for adjusting the lifting position as needed. This winch allows technicians to handle large loads, such as photovoltaic panels, without requiring excessive physical effort.

[0076] To allow precise movement along the rows of panels, guide wheels 23 can be fixed horizontally to the inner surfaces of the floats. The guide wheels allow the vessel to be positioned in a straight line alongside the panels, which is essential for precision work. Furthermore, they minimize the risk of deviation in the event of wind or slight currents, thus ensuring optimal alignment with the rows of floating photovoltaic panels.

[0077] Finally, additional wheels 24 (for example, 4 additional wheels per float) can be installed on the floats to allow the craft to leave the water and move on ramps or land surfaces. This feature facilitates the transport and storage of the craft, making logistical operations easier.

[0078] In terms of propulsion, the craft can be equipped with a motor mounted on one or both floats, for complete autonomy during its movements. This motor is often electric, powered by rechargeable batteries, in order to minimize the craft's environmental footprint. Electric propulsion, in addition to its low environmental impact, allows for silent movement, which This is particularly advantageous when working on sensitive sites or in residential areas. The engine system is designed to offer optimal maneuverability, allowing operators to move quickly between different intervention points. In some cases, outboard motors can also be used, providing sufficient power for rapid movement.

[0079] The vessel is thus designed to meet the high demands of floating photovoltaic installations. Its stable and modular configuration, lifting system, anchoring points, durable materials, and beveled module design make it an ideal platform for operations on bodies of water. It combines stability, safety, and efficiency to optimize the work of technicians and guarantee maximum durability, even in challenging conditions. The beveled shape allows for easier docking of the vessel on the banks.

[0080] The boat can also be used from the assembly (construction) of the floating solar installation.

[0081] Of course, the invention is not limited to the embodiments described and alternative embodiments can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the claims.

Claims

Demands

1. Floating craft (1) comprising: - two longitudinal floats (2a, 2b), arranged in a catamaran configuration, and designed to offer a top surface (5a, 5b) for accommodating persons; - a demountable supporting structure (9) formed of profiles linking the two floats (2a, 2b), and defining, with internal faces of the floats (2a, 2b), a tunnel (11) of a height H and a width L, the supporting structure (9) includes at least one platform (12) disposed between the two floats (2a, 2b) and partially delimiting the tunnel (11), the supporting structure (9) also defines a so-called maintenance zone (13) forming an empty space between the two floats (2a, 2b).

2. Boat (1) according to claim 1, wherein the tunnel (11) is configured to permit the boat (1) to move along a row of fixed floating modules, these being positioned in the tunnel (11) during navigation.

3. Boat (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein each float (2a, 2b) is formed of elementary modules assembled together along the direction of elongation of said float (2a, 2b).

4. Boat (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein said boat (1) comprises a winch (22) supported by a profile, referred to as a maintenance profile, of one of at least one platform (12) and arranged to permit the handling of tools and / or loads in the maintenance area (13).

5. Boat (1) according to claim 4, wherein the winch (22) is in sliding connection with the maintenance profile.

6. Boat (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the supporting structure (9) forms guardrails (14) on a perimeter external to the boat (1), the guardrails (14) comprise external horizontal profiles (15) held to the floats (2a, 2b) by external vertical profiles (16).

7. Boat (1) according to claim 6, wherein the supporting structure (9) comprises a bar (17) mounted on two adjacent external vertical profiles (16), referred to, respectively, as the first external profile and the second external profile, the bar (17) being pivotally mounted at one of its ends to one of the first external profiles and the second external profile, and by the other of its ends linked to the other of the first external profile and of the second external profile by a locking means, the bar (17) being disposed at an intermediate level between the horizontal profiles and the upper surface (5a, 5b), advantageously, the first profile and the second profile are disposed on one end of one of the floats (2a, 2b).

8. Boat (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein at least one platform (12) comprises horizontal profiles, referred to as intermediate horizontal profiles (19), supported partly by external vertical profiles (16), and partly by internal vertical profiles (20), the intermediate horizontal profiles (19) forming a frame, essentially rectangular, on which rests a support panel (21).

9. Boat (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein each float (2a, 2b) has a flat bottom.

10. Boat (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein said boat (1) comprises a mooring system located on a forward part of each float (2a, 2b), said mooring system comprising a metal hook or ring for securing the boat (1) when anchored to a fixed point.

11. Boat (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein a module located at the ends of each float (2a, 2b) has a beveled shape, with an angle other than 90° with respect to an upper surface (5a, 5b) of said floats (2a, 2b), so as to improve the hydrodynamics and maneuverability of the boat (1) while reducing water resistance during movement.

12. Boat (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein guide wheels (23) are fixed to the internal surfaces of the two floats (2a, 2b), allowing linear alignment of the boat (1) along a row of floating photovoltaic panels.

13. Boat (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein additional wheels (24) are mounted on the floats (2a, 2b) arranged to permit the rolling of said boat (1).

14. Boat (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the profiles forming the load-bearing structure (9) are fixed together by reversible fastening means, advantageously the reversible fastening means comprise screwing means and / or clipping means.

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