Solar panel float system, float, and method for manufacturing same

Abstract

Provided is a solar panel float system which can be stably moored.　A solar panel float system to be used on water according to the present invention comprises: at least one float; and at least one mooring member. The at least one mooring member is provided with a linear member, a fixing member, and a buffer member. The linear member connects the at least one float with the fixing member. The fixing member is fixed at the bottom of the water or on a land. The buffer member buffers tension applied to the linear member.

Description

Float system for solar panels, float and manufacturing method thereof

[0001] The present invention relates to a float system for solar panels, a float, and a method for manufacturing the same.

[0002] (First Aspect) Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for mooring a float system for solar panels on water.

[0003] (Second Aspect) Patent Document 2 discloses a float in which a solar panel is fixed to a support plate portion that rises from a wall surface on one side of the inner periphery of an annular float portion.

[0004] JP 2019-11006 A JP 2015-217769 A

[0005] (First Aspect) When a solar panel float system is exposed to strong winds such as a typhoon, excessive loads are placed on the ropes and other components of the mooring members. Effective measures to ensure stable mooring have been sought.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and aims to provide a float system for solar panels that can be stably moored.

[0007] (Second Aspect) The amount of power generated by a solar panel depends on the area of ​​the solar panel, and increasing the length of the short side of the solar panel has been considered in order to increase the area of ​​the solar panel. While it is conceivable to enlarge the floats in accordance with the increase in the short side of the solar panel, enlarging the floats would reduce the number of floats that can be arranged in the water area where the solar panels are to be laid out, thereby reducing the number of solar panels that can be mounted, and there is a risk that the amount of power generated would actually decrease. Therefore, it is desirable to increase the size of the solar panels that can be mounted while suppressing the enlargement of the floats.

[0008] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and aims to provide a float capable of mounting a larger solar panel than conventional ones.

[0009] (First Aspect) According to the present disclosure, the following inventions are provided. [1] A float system for solar panels used on water, comprising at least one float and at least one mooring member, the at least one mooring member comprising a linear member, a fixing member, and a buffer member, the linear member connecting the at least one float to the fixing member, the fixing member being fixed to the bottom of the water or land, and the buffer member buffering tension applied to the linear member. [2] The system described in [1], wherein the linear member is formed by connecting first, second, and third linear members in this order, the first linear member connected to the float, the third linear member connected to the fixing member, and the buffer member attached to the second linear member. [3] The system described in [2], wherein the second linear member is a resin rope. [4] The system according to [2] or [3], wherein the at least one mooring member includes first and second mooring members, the fixing members of the first and second mooring members are fixed at different positions from each other, and the first and second mooring members have first linear members of equal length, second linear members of equal length, and third linear members of different lengths. [5] The system according to any one of [2] to [4], wherein both the second and third linear members are resin ropes.

[0010] (Second Aspect) According to the present invention, the following inventions are provided: [1] A float on which a solar panel is mounted, the float comprising a main body and a support portion, the main body portion having an opening, the support portion being connected to the main body portion via a hinge portion provided on the outer periphery of the opening, wherein the thickness direction of the float is defined as Dt, the longitudinal direction of the hinge portion is defined as a first direction D1, a direction perpendicular to both the thickness direction Dt and the first direction D1 is defined as a second direction D2, the length in the second direction D2 between the tip of the support portion and the hinge portion at the center of the longitudinal direction of the hinge portion is defined as L1, and the height of the support portion from the hinge portion is defined as H1, where L1 / H1 is 0.1 or greater. [2] The float according to [1], wherein, where H2 is the height from the hinge portion of the highest part of the support portion that abuts on the main body portion at the center of the longitudinal direction of the hinge portion, H2 / H1 is 0.2 or more. [3] The float according to [1] or [2], wherein, where L2 is the length in the second direction D2 between the hinge portion and the highest part of the support portion that abuts on the main body portion at the center of the longitudinal direction of the hinge portion, and L2 is the length in the second direction D2 between the hinge portion and the highest part of the support portion that abuts on the main body portion at the center of the longitudinal direction of the hinge portion, L2 / H1 is 0.2 or more. [4] The float according to any one of [1] to [3], wherein the main body portion and the support portion are configured so that when the support portion rotates downward around the hinge portion, the support portion abuts on the inner surface of the opening, thereby preventing further rotation of the support portion.[5] A method for manufacturing a float, comprising a molding step and a raising step, wherein in the molding step, a molded body is formed, and the molded body has a structure in which a support part is arranged within an opening of a main body part and the periphery of the support part is connected to the main body part via a connecting part, and in the raising step, the main body part and the support part are cut at a part of the connecting part other than a part that will become a hinge part, and then the support part is rotated so as to raise up around the hinge part, thereby erecting the support part to manufacture the float, wherein the thickness direction of the float is Dt, the longitudinal direction of the hinge part is a first direction D1, and the direction perpendicular to both the thickness direction Dt and the first direction D1 is a second direction D2, and where L1 is the length in the second direction D2 between the tip of the support part and the hinge part at the center of the longitudinal direction of the hinge part, and H1 is the height of the support part, L1 / H1 is 0.1 or more. [6] A method according to [5], wherein in the molding process, the molded body is formed using first and second molds that can be opened and closed, and the first and second molds each have a mold body and a piece that is detachably attached to the mold body, and the piece is arranged to form an area that includes the support portion.

[0011] (First Aspect) In the present invention, the buffer member can impart a buffering function to the mooring member, so that stable mooring can be achieved.

[0012] (Second aspect) In the float of Patent Document 2, the support parts are arranged to rise almost directly above the hinge parts. In contrast, in the float of the present invention, the support parts rise so as to be offset from the hinge parts in the second direction D2. Therefore, according to the present invention, it is possible to mount a solar panel that is larger than conventional solar panels.

[0013] (First aspect)A plan view showing an example of a float system 1 for a solar panel (with a solar panel 50 already mounted) according to an embodiment. It is a view showing an enlarged configuration of a broken line frame A at the center of FIG. 1, and is an exploded perspective view of a float 10 and a solar panel 50. FIG. 3A is a perspective view of the float 10, and FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view of the vicinity of a mooring portion 70 of the float 10 along line B-B of FIG. 3A (in a state where an eyebolt 80 etc. are attached). It is a view for explaining the configuration of a mooring member 100. FIG. 5A is an example of a buffer member 200, FIG. 5B is a modified example of the buffer member 200, and FIG. 5C is an example of another buffer member 210. It is a plan view showing an example in which a mooring method (mooring member 150 of V-shaped mooring) according to a modified example is adopted in the float system 1 for a solar panel. It is a view for explaining the mooring member 150 of the modified example (V-shaped mooring). (Second aspect) A perspective view of a structure 40 in which a solar panel module 4 is mounted on a float 31. FIG. 9A is a perspective view showing the structure 40 in a state where the solar panel 5 is removed from FIG. 8. FIG. 9B is a perspective view of the structure 40 of FIG. 9A seen from another direction. FIG. 10A is a perspective view of the float 31 in FIG. 8. FIG. 10B is a cross-sectional view of the float 31 of FIG. 10A passing through the center in the longitudinal direction of the hinge portion 9. It is an enlarged view of region A in FIG. 10B. It is an exploded perspective view showing a part in the vicinity of the support portion 8 by extracting the support portion 8, the upper support member 2, and the frame 6 from FIG. 9B. It is a cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the support portion 8 passing through the central plane in the first direction D1 of the structure 40 of FIG. 8. It is an exploded view of FIG. 13. FIG. 15A is a perspective view of a molded body 42 for manufacturing the float 31 of FIG. 10A. FIG. 15B is a cross-sectional view of the molded body 42 of FIG. 15A corresponding to FIG. 10B. FIG. 15C is an enlarged view of region C in FIG. 15B. It is a cross-sectional view corresponding to FIG. 15B showing first and second molds 21, 22 for manufacturing the molded body 42. FIG. 17A is a perspective view after the support portion 8 is rotated downward so as to drop from the state of FIG. 16A. FIG. 17B is a cross-sectional view of the molded body 42 of FIG. 17A corresponding to FIG. 10B. FIG. 17C is an enlarged view of region C in FIG. 17B.

[0014] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described. Various features shown in the following embodiments can be combined with each other. Furthermore, each feature can be an invention independently. Furthermore, in the following embodiments, elements not specified in the claims are optional elements and can be omitted. Furthermore, any number of "0"s (for example, one or two) may be added to the end of numerical values ​​disclosed in the following description. For example, one or two "0"s may be added after "1.4" to make it "1.40" or "1.400."

[0015] (First Aspect) 1. Configuration of Solar Panel Float System 1 For simplicity, in the following description, the solar panel float system 1 of the embodiment will also be referred to simply as "system 1." As illustrated in FIG. 1 , the system 1 can be configured by connecting a large number of floats 10 in a planar direction. Most of the floats 10 in the center are equipped with solar panels 50. On the other hand, in the embodiment, the floats 10 arranged in a circular row at the outermost periphery of the system 1 are not equipped with solar panels 50, for example.

[0016] The system 1 is used on water and includes at least one float 10 and at least one mooring member 100. The system 1 includes a plurality of floats 10 and a plurality of mooring members 100, as illustrated in FIG.

[0017] There are no limitations on the number of floats in the system 1 or the planar shape of the system 1. In FIG. 1 , as an example only, the system 1 is constructed in a rectangular shape in a planar view, with 9 x 9 floats 10 connected together, or a total of 81 floats 10, and solar panels 50 mounted on 7 x 7 floats 10, or a total of 49 floats 10, excluding the outermost periphery. A power conversion device such as a power conditioner may be installed on any of the floats 10 (not shown). Furthermore, any of the floats 10 on the north, south, east, and west sides of the system 1 may be connected to a pier. Connecting a large number of floats 10 and mounting a large number of solar panels 50 increases the wind load that the system 1 receives, and also increases the tension (tensile load) on each mooring member 100.

[0018] In FIG. 1 , as an example, mooring members 100 are attached to the floats 10 in the outermost circular row. For example, if the system 1 is installed in the northern hemisphere, more mooring members 100 may be attached to the row of floats 10 aligned at the northern end of the system. This is to protect against winds blowing from north to south, since the solar panels 50 are tilted to face south in the northern hemisphere (see FIG. 2 ). In the embodiment, as an example, mooring members 100 are attached to all of the floats 10 aligned at the northern end. On the other hand, fewer mooring members 100 may be attached to each row of floats 10 aligned at the southern, eastern, and western ends than to the northern end. For example, the mooring member number relationship may be "north side ≧ south side > east-west side." All of the floats 10 at the four corners of the system 1 are connected to mooring members 100. However, the configuration described here is merely an example, and there are no restrictions on the positions or number of floats 10 to which the mooring members 100 should be attached. The mooring members 100 may be attached to any float 10, including the central one, or the same number of floats 10 in all directions may be attached. Note that when the system 1 is installed in the southern hemisphere, more mooring members 100 may be attached to the group of floats 10 on the south side rather than the north side.

[0019] 2. Configuration of the Float 10 and Solar Panel 50 An example of the specific configuration of the float 10 and the like will be described using Figures 2 to 3B. Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view showing an enlarged view of the configuration of the dashed-line frame A in the center of Figure 1. In one embodiment, as shown in Figure 2, the front side (Front) of the float 10 faces north, and the rear side (Rear) faces south.

[0020] 2 illustrates a state in which a solar panel 50 is installed on the float 10. As shown in FIG. 2 , the float 10 includes a receiving portion 12, a fixing bracket 13 (including a clamping portion 13 a and a fixing member 13 b), a fixing bracket 14, an attachment portion 19, and a connecting bolt 62.

[0021] 3A illustrates a float 10 without a solar panel 50. The float 10 includes a support portion 11, bolt holes 62a, and a mooring portion 70 (including a first through-hole 71 and a second through-hole 72). The support portion 11 and the mooring portion 70 are hidden behind the solar panel 50 in FIG. 2. The float 10 may be manufactured, for example, by blow molding, in which a molten cylindrical parison is sandwiched between multiple split molds and inflated. Various thermoplastic resins can be used as the molding material. For example, polyolefin resins such as polyethylene and polypropylene are preferably used.

[0022] The solar panel 50 has a glass portion 50a and bases 53 and 54. On the front side, the outer periphery of the solar panel 50 is fixed by a fixing bracket 13 and a support portion 11. Similarly, on the rear side, the outer periphery is fixed by a fixing bracket 14, a receiving portion 12, and an attachment portion 19. Bolt holes 62a are provided at the front and rear ends of the float 10, and these bolt holes 62a can be fixed to bolt holes in a connecting member (not shown) with connecting bolts 62. This makes it possible to connect any two floats 10 together by turning the connecting member.

[0023] 3A may be configured to be foldable, for example. In the outermost float 10 in the system 1 of FIG.

[0024] 3B, the manner in which the eyebolt 80 is fixed to the mooring part 70 will be described. In the embodiment, as an example, the eyebolt 80 and the bolt 83 are first inserted from below the plane of FIG. 3B (i.e., from the water surface) through the first and second through-holes 71, 72 of the float 10, and then through the through-hole 82a of the fixing plate 82, and fixed with nuts 81, 84. One end 101a of the mooring member 100 is connected to the ring of the eyebolt 80.

[0025] 3. Configuration of the Mooring Member 100 Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the mooring member 100. The mooring member 100 comprises a linear member 101, a fixing member 105, and a buffer member 200. One end 101a of the mooring member 100 is connected to the float 10 (eyebolt 80) (see Figure 3B). The other end 101b of the mooring member 100 is connected to the fixing member 105 (fixing portion 105a). In this way, the linear member 101 connects the fixing member 105 and the float 10.

[0026] The fixing members 105 are fixed to the bottom of the water or on land. In the embodiment, as an example, each fixing member 105 is fixed to the bottom of the water. The fixing members 105 may be anchors or sinkers. Anchors are lightweight and easy to transport, and installation work on the bottom of the water can usually be performed by a diver. A sinker is a weight made of concrete, heavy metal, or the like, which has a specific gravity significantly greater than that of water.

[0027] For example, the linear member 101 is configured by connecting first, second, and third linear members 102, 103, and 104 in this order. The first linear member 102 is connected to the float 10. For example, the first linear member 102 may be made of metal, such as a chain or a metal wire. For example, the buffer member 200 is attached to the second linear member 103. The third linear member 104 is connected to a fixed member 105.

[0028] The second and third linear members 103, 104 may be, for example, resin ropes. The resin ropes may be made of any material selected from the group consisting of polypropylene, polyethylene, polyamide, polyester, polyvinyl chloride, polyurethane, polyether, and fluororesin. The resin ropes may further contain additives such as ultraviolet absorbers, antioxidants, carbon black, and / or elastomers (softening components). The second and third linear members 103, 104 may be made of the same material or different materials. Polypropylene and polyethylene have a lower specific gravity than water. Polyamide may be used as the resin rope to create a suitable resin rope that is hard, has a high elongation rate, and is resistant to wear. The resin rope may have a three-strand structure. The material and / or structure of the second linear member 103 may be selected to be more flexible and softer than the third linear member 104, thereby providing flexibility to the second linear member 103 and facilitating installation of the buffer member 200.

[0029] In the embodiment, as an example, the length of the entire linear member 101 is L0, and the length of the third linear member 104 is L1 (see FIG. 4). In this case, the value of L1 / L0 is, for example, 0.2 to 0.9, preferably 0.3 to 0.8, and more preferably 0.4 to 0.6. Specifically, for example, L1 / L0 = 0.20, 0.25, 0.30, 0.35, 0.40, 0.45, 0.50, 0.55, 0.60, 0.65, 0.70, 0.75, 0.80, 0.85, or 0.90, and may be within a range between any two of the values ​​exemplified here.

[0030] In the embodiment, as an example, the length of the second linear member 103 to which the buffer member 200 is attached is defined as L2 (see FIG. 4). In the embodiment, the value of L1 / L2 is, for example, 0.3 to 10.0, preferably 0.4 to 7.0, and more preferably 0.5 to 5.0. Specifically, for example, L1 / L2 = 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1.0, 2.0, 3.0, 4.0, 5.0, 6.0, 7.0, 8.0, 9, or 10.0, and may be within a range between any two of the numerical values ​​exemplified here.

[0031] The second and third linear members 103, 104 may have the same thickness or different thicknesses. The thickness may be defined as the diameter of the cross section when the second and third linear members 103, 104 are cut along a transverse plane (a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of an elongated object). If the cross section is non-circular, the thickness may be defined as the diameter of the circumscribed circle. The second linear member 103 may be thinner than the third linear member 104, which may make the second linear member 103 more flexible and facilitate attachment of the buffer member 200. Alternatively, the second linear member 103 may be thicker than the third linear member 104 so as to be able to sufficiently withstand winding or bending of the second linear member 103 when attached to the buffer member 200.

[0032] The buffer member 200 buffers the tension applied to the linear member 101 (the second linear member 103 in this embodiment). A specific example of the buffer member 200 is shown in Fig. 5A and the like, and will be described in detail later.

[0033] In this embodiment, the mooring member 100 is divided into three parts in the length direction to form a multi-part structure, and the buffer member 200 is attached to the central second linear member 103. One advantage is that when the buffer member 200 is made of resin, it is easy to maintain the buffer member 200 in water, and problems with the weather resistance of the buffer member 200 (deterioration by ultraviolet rays due to sunlight) can be suppressed.

[0034] In the embodiment, the second linear member 103 is a resin rope, and therefore the flexibility of the resin rope can be utilized in addition to the buffer member 200. Another advantage is that the buffer member 200 can be easily attached.

[0035] In the embodiment, as an example, both the second and third linear members 103, 104 are resin ropes. The reason for connecting the resin ropes is that it is possible to divide the functions, with the second linear member 103 being primarily used to attach the buffer member 200 and the third linear member 103 being used to adjust the overall length of the mooring member 100. Adopting a configuration in which two resin ropes are connected in series also has the advantage of increasing impact resistance. However, this is not limited to this. As a modified example, the buffer member 200 may be attached to the third linear member 104 instead of the second linear member 103, or the buffer member 200 may be attached to each of the second and third linear members 103, 104.

[0036] From the viewpoint of strength, a metal fixing portion 105a may be used. Contact between dissimilar metals can cause electrolytic corrosion, resulting in weakening and rust. In a system installed for a long period (e.g., 20 years), such as the system 1 according to this embodiment, there is a high risk of components rubbing against each other, making it necessary to pay particular attention to the aforementioned weakening and rust. Therefore, to prevent electrolytic corrosion, it is preferable to use the same type of metal between contacting components or to apply a plating process to prevent electrolytic corrosion. In this embodiment, taking such electrolytic corrosion into consideration, the fixing member 105 and the first linear member 102 are connected by second and third linear members 103 and 104 made of resin rope.

[0037] 4. Configuration of the Cushioning Member 200 The cushioning member 200 of the embodiment and the cushioning member 210 of the modified example will be described with reference to Figures 5A to 5C. Figure 5A shows an example of the cushioning member 200. The cushioning member 200 includes a mounting hook 201 and a winding portion 202. The winding portion 202 is, for example, cylindrical. The mounting hooks 201 have any hook shape and are provided on both ends of the winding portion 202.

[0038] The thickness (diameter) of the winding portion 202 may be thicker or thinner than the linear member to be wound. The length (longitudinal dimension) and thickness of the winding portion 202 are designed so that the linear member to be wound (the second linear member 103 in this embodiment) can be wound n or more times. Adjacent portions of the wound linear member may be spaced apart along the longitudinal direction (axial direction) of the winding portion 202. The number of windings n is specifically, for example, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10, and may be within a range between any two of the numerical values ​​exemplified here.

[0039] The materials of the mounting hook 201 and the winding portion 202 are arbitrary and may be the same or different. The material of the winding portion 202 may be, for example, an elastic material, specifically, for example, any resin, any rubber, or any thermoplastic elastomer. The resin may be, for example, ABS, polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, or acrylic resin. The rubber may be, for example, nitrile rubber, chloroprene rubber, Hypalon, polybutadiene rubber, ethylene-propylene rubber (EPM), ethylene-propylene terpolymer (EPDM), H-NBR, or silicone rubber. The material is preferably selected taking into consideration, for example, tensile strength, flexural strength, torsional load strength, water resistance, weather resistance, and / or cold resistance. In some embodiments, ethylene-propylene terpolymer (EPDM) may be used as a more preferable material, as EPDM has the advantages of at least excellent water resistance, chemical resistance, weather resistance, and cold resistance.

[0040] On the other hand, the material of the attachment hook 201 may be the same as or different from the material of the winding portion 202. The attachment hook 201 and the winding portion 202 may be integrated or may be integrally molded from the same material. If they are made of different materials, the material of the attachment hook 201 may be harder or softer than the winding portion 202. For example, the winding portion 202 may be made of rubber or resin, and the attachment hook 201 may be made of metal.

[0041] FIG. 5B shows a modified example of the buffer member 200. The winding portion 202 is replaced with a winding portion 202a. The winding portion 202a includes a core material and a buffer covering the core material. The core material is rod-shaped or wire-shaped, and attachment hooks 201 are provided on both ends of the core material. The core material may be rigid or may be an elastic material harder than the buffer material. The core material may be in the form of a plate, rod, pipe, or cord material. The material of the core material may be, for example, metal or resin. In the case of a cord material, it may be resin fiber or metal fiber. Meanwhile, the buffer material is a portion around which the second linear member 103 is wound and comes into contact with the second linear member 103. The buffer material is sandwiched between the second linear member 103 and the core material, and can buffer the clamping force of the second linear member 103 when tension T is generated. The buffer material is preferably an elastic material. The material of the buffer body may be, for example, rubber or resin, and specifically, any material may be adopted from the various materials exemplified for the winding portion 202 above.

[0042] 5A or 5B , an attachment ring of any shape may be used instead of the attachment hook 201. The attachment function may be provided by passing the second linear member 103 through the attachment ring. The attachment ring may employ an openable / closable connection structure such as a carabiner. Note that the buffer member 200 may be detachable from the linear member 101 (the second linear member 103 in this embodiment) after the mooring member 100 is installed, meaning that it may be possible to attach or remove it at any time after the system 1 is installed. This detachable function is achieved by at least the attachment hook 201 or an openable / closable fastener such as a carabiner.

[0043] 5C shows another example of a buffer member 210. The buffer member 210 has a plurality of mounting holes 211 formed in a thick plate-like member 212. The second linear member 103 is inserted through the mounting holes 211 and extends while bending (snakes) in the thickness direction of the plate-like member 212. The material of the plate-like member 212 may be any elastic material, such as rubber (specifically, EPDM, etc.). The material of the plate-like member 212 can be selected from the same group of materials as the material of the winding portion 202 described above.

[0044] The buffer members 200, 210 described above can provide a buffer function to the mooring member 100, thereby enabling stable mooring. The buffer members 200, 210 prevent instantaneous and excessive tension from being applied to the linear member 101 (second linear member 103) when the system 1 is exposed to strong winds, such as a typhoon. The buffer members 200, 210 can bear at least a portion of the tensile load (see tension T in Figures 5A to 5C) applied to the linear member 101 (second linear member 103), thereby buffering the tension applied to the linear member 101 (second linear member 103).

[0045] When the system 1 is exposed to strong winds such as a typhoon, excessive loads are placed on the linear members 101 that make up the mooring members 100. If an attempt were made to address this by increasing the number of mooring members 100, there would be a problem of increased component and installation costs for the mooring members 100. In this regard, in the embodiment, the buffering function of the buffer members 200, 210 allows the mooring function of the mooring members 100 to be maintained even during strong winds. This allows the mooring function of the system 1 to be improved without adding any mooring members 100, or by keeping the number of additional mooring members to a minimum.

[0046] Although the configuration of the buffer member 200 has been illustrated, it is not limited to this. Various known buffer members for mooring, also known as "shock absorbers" or "mooring shock absorbers," can be used. Considering the durability of the mooring member 100 when it is suspended in water, a simple structure with no moving parts is preferable, and in this respect, the configurations of Figures 5A to 5C are advantageous.

[0047] 5. Modifications, etc. 5-1. Modifications of Linear Members There are no limitations on the configuration of the linear member 101, and it is not limited to the three-part configuration of the embodiment. The linear member 101 may be composed of a single continuous linear member, or may be composed of two linear members connected in series (two-part configuration), or may be composed of four or more linear members connected in series. There are no limitations on the material of the linear member 101. For example, all of the first to third linear members 102 to 104 may be resin ropes, metal wires, etc.

[0048] 5-2. Adjusting the Length of Multiple Mooring Members In the embodiment, as an example, the multiple mooring members 100 provided in the system 1 may include first and second mooring members 100 of different lengths. The fixing members 105 of the first and second mooring members 100 are fixed at different positions. As an example, of the multiple mooring members 100 installed on each float 10 on the north side in Figure 1, one at the right end or left end may be the "first mooring member 100" and the one in the middle may be the "second mooring member 100."

[0049] As an example, the first and second mooring members 100 may have the same first linear member 102 length, the same second linear member 103 length L2, and different third linear member 104 lengths L1. The length of the mooring member 100 can be adjusted according to the mooring position using the lower third linear member 104. The length of the third linear member 104 of the first mooring member 100 is designated L1a, and the length of the third linear member 104 of the second mooring member 100 is designated L1b. However, as an example, L1a > L1b. In this case, the value of L1a / L1b is, for example, 1.1 to 4.0, preferably 1.2 to 3.0, and more preferably 1.5 to 2.0. Specifically, L1a / L1b is, for example, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9, 2.0, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6, 2.7, 2.8, 2.9, 3.0, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 3.6, 3.7, 3.8, 3.9, or 4.0, and may be within a range between any two of the numerical values ​​exemplified here.

[0050] As another example, the first and second mooring members 100 may have the same lengths of the first and third linear members 102, 104, but may have different lengths L2 of the second linear members 103. The length of the second linear member 103 of the first mooring member 100 is defined as L2a, and the length of the second linear member 103 of the second mooring member 100 is defined as L2b. As an example, L2a > L2b. In this case, the value of L2a / L2b may be the same as the numerical range exemplified for L1a / L1b above.

[0051] For example, length adjustment of the mooring members 100 may be utilized in the following situations: There may be a large variation in the vertical and / or horizontal positions of the fixing members 105. Furthermore, such vertical and / or horizontal positional variations may occur between the fixing members 105 installed on the water bottom and the fixing members 105 installed on land. In such cases, the lengths of the linear members 101 of the first and second mooring members 100 may be differentiated (specifically, at least one of the first to third linear members 102 to 104 may be differentiated), and the length of each mooring member 100 may be adjusted to an appropriate length depending on the fixing positions of the fixing members 105.

[0052] 5-3. Modifications of Mooring Members and Mooring Methods (V-Shaped Mooring) Figures 6 and 7 are schematic diagrams illustrating "V-shaped mooring" according to a modification of the embodiment. In this modification, as shown in Figure 7, the other ends 101b of multiple linear members 101 are connected to a common fixing member 105, and as shown in Figure 6, one end 101a of each of the multiple linear members 101 is connected to a different float 10. As a result, as shown in Figure 7, the multiple linear members 101 extend in a V-shape.

[0053] For convenience, this configuration is referred to as "V-shaped mooring" in this modified example. While two linear members 101 are shown in Figure 7, this is not a limitation and three or more linear members 101 may be connected to a common fixing member 105. The lengths of the multiple linear members 101 in one mooring member 150 may be the same, but this is not a limitation and they may differ from one another. Regardless of the number and / or length of the linear members 101, this modified example will collectively refer to this as V-shaped mooring.

[0054] In Figure 7, as an example, buffer members 200 are attached to all of the multiple linear members 101 of the mooring member 150. However, this is not limited to this, and buffer members 200 may be attached to only a predetermined number (i.e., one or several) of the multiple linear members 101 of the mooring member 150 that are less than all of the multiple linear members 101. In other words, in Figure 7, buffer members 200 may be attached to only one of the two linear members 101. Depending on the wind direction, the tensile load may vary greatly among the multiple linear members 101, and only some of the linear members 101 may be pulled strongly. Buffer members 200 may be employed only on some of the linear members 101 that are subjected to such relatively strong tensile loads, thereby making it possible to effectively achieve stable mooring while limiting the number of buffer members 200.

[0055] In this modification, "float spacing" is defined as one of the parameters that define the V-shaped mooring structure of the mooring member 150. The float spacing is a numerical value that defines "how many floats 10 are there between the float 10 connected to one linear member 101 and the float 10 connected to another linear member 101 in the mooring member 150." The distance between the connecting portions of the linear members 101 and the floats 10 (distance D in FIG. 6) is determined according to the float spacing. １ , D ２ (see reference) will be decided.

[0056] In the example of Figure 6, when looking at the mooring members 150 on the north and south sides, the linear members 101 of adjacent floats 10 are connected to a common fixing member 105. In the embodiment of the system 1, as an example, all floats 10 have the same shape, structure, and dimensions. In the example of Figure 6, the float spacing is "zero" for the mooring members 150 on the north and south sides. Accordingly, on the north and south sides, the distance D between the connection parts of the linear members 101 and the floats 10 is １ On the other hand, the float interval between the east and west mooring members 150 is "one float." Accordingly, on the east and west sides, the distance D between the connecting portions of the linear members 101 and the floats 10 is ２For example, the float spacing may be approximately 2 m (i.e., twice the spacing on the north-south side). The reason for making the float spacing narrower on the north-south side than on the east-west side is to increase the mooring strength on the north-south side because the system 1 is more susceptible to north-south winds. Narrowing the float spacing is particularly preferable for the mooring members 150 on the north side. On the other hand, the float spacing on the east-west side mooring members 150 may be greater than that on the north-south side (for example, 1 to 2 floats as shown in Figure 6). The float spacing relationship may be, for example, "north side ≧ south side > east-west side." The float spacing may be, for example, 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 floats, or may be within a range between any two of the values ​​shown here. In the embodiment, the three-part structure of the linear member 101 and / or the functional division structure in which both the second and third linear members 103, 104 are resin ropes make it possible to easily adjust the length of the linear member 101, which has the advantage of being able to adjust the difference in float spacing. Note that the structure shown in Figure 6 allows multiple mooring members 150 to be arranged while preventing the linear members 101 from contacting each other, which has the advantage of suppressing wear due to friction, etc.

[0057] See angle θ in Figure 7. This θ is a parameter that defines the V-shaped mooring structure of the mooring member 150 (see Figure 7). θ is the interior angle formed by the multiple linear members 101, with the fixed portion 105a as the vertex. θ is preferably 45° or less, and more preferably 30° or less. Specific examples of θ are 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, and 60°, and may be within a range between any two of the values ​​exemplified here.

[0058] The characteristic configuration and method of V-shaped mooring described in this modification may be treated as a separate technical concept independent of the buffer members 200, 210 of the embodiment. The buffer member 200 may be omitted from the mooring member 150, and a mooring member with such an omission may be adopted in the system 1.

[0059] 5-4. Other (Sinkers and Fasteners) As an example, a sinker may be attached to any of the first to third linear members 102-104. In particular, if the second or third linear member 103, 104 is a resin rope, a sinker may be attached to the resin rope to bias it vertically downward. As another example, any two of the first to third linear members 102-104 may be connected via a fastener. The fastener may be, for example, a shackle or other device with a certain amount of weight. These sinkers and fasteners are collectively referred to as "sinkers, etc." There are no limitations on the material of the sinkers, etc., but they may be made of metal. For example, connecting the second or third linear member 103, 104 as a resin rope with a metal fastener has the advantage of preventing contact between the metal members. These sinkers, etc. are preferably located at or near the connecting portion of the second and third linear members 103, 104. The reason for this is that once installed, floating solar power generation systems are required to operate stably for a long period of time (e.g., 10 to 20 years). Mooring components are likely to deteriorate over time, posing a challenge: the resin rope, which was initially strong, deteriorates and becomes less able to withstand strong winds. The aforementioned buffer members 200 and 210 are one effective solution. Reducing the effects of ultraviolet rays is an effective way to minimize resin rope deterioration. Therefore, resin ropes should be kept submerged as much as possible to avoid direct sunlight. Water levels, particularly in reservoirs, are prone to change. When the water level drops, slack develops in the rope, causing resin ropes (more specifically, ropes with a lighter specific gravity than water, such as PP ropes) to float to the surface. For these reasons, it is effective to use weights, such as sinkers, to prevent the resin rope from rising to the surface.

[0060] The configuration of the float 10 in the embodiment is an example, and there is no limitation to the specific configuration. Any water-borne float structure capable of mounting the solar panel 50 can be used. It is not limited to a blow-molded body, and a simple flat floating body may also be used.

[0061] (Second Viewpoint) 1. Structure A structure 40 according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described using FIGS. 8 to 17. As shown in FIGS. 8 to 9, the structure according to this embodiment includes a float 31, an upper support member 2, a lower support member 3, and a solar panel module 4. The solar panel module 4 includes a solar panel 5 and a frame 6 that supports the solar panel 5. The upper support member 2 and the lower support member 3 are fixed to the float 31. The frame 6 is supported by the upper support member 2 and the lower support member 3. Each component will be described in detail below. In the following description, terms related to directions, such as "upper," "lower," and "horizontal," refer to directions when the bottom surface 31a of the float 31 is horizontal, as shown in FIG. 10B.

[0062] <Float 31> As shown in Figure 8, the solar panel 5 is mounted on the float 31. More specifically, the float 31 supports the substantially rectangular solar panel module 4 so that the shorter sides of the solar panel module 4 are inclined, and is used, for example, to install the solar panel module 4 on water such as a pond or lake. The float 31 is preferably a hollow resin molded body.

[0063] As shown in FIG. 10 , the float 31 includes a main body 7 and a support portion 8. The main body 7 has an opening 7b. The main body 7 is annular. The support portion 8 is connected to the main body 7 via a hinge portion 9 provided on the outer periphery of the opening 7b. The support portion 8 is provided so as to rise from the main body 7. The float 31 can be manufactured by forming a molded body including the main body 7 and the support portion 8, cutting off the periphery of the support portion 8 except for the portion that will become the hinge portion 9, and rotating the support portion 8 around the hinge portion 9 to raise it. At this time, an opening 7b is formed in the main body 7 at the portion where the support portion 8 was formed. It is preferable that the main body 7 and the support portion 8 are each hollow.

[0064] Here, the thickness direction of the float 31 (the vertical direction in Figure 10B) is defined as Dt, the longitudinal direction of the hinge portion 9 (the direction perpendicular to the paper surface in Figure 10B) is defined as the first direction D1, and the direction perpendicular to both the thickness direction Dt and the first direction D1 (the horizontal direction in Figure 10B) is defined as the second direction D2.

[0065] At the center of the longitudinal direction of the hinge portion 9 (i.e., in the cross-sectional views shown in FIGS. 10B and 11 ), the length in the second direction D2 between the tip 8a of the support portion 8 and the hinge portion 9 is L1, and the height of the support portion 8 from the hinge portion 9 is H1. L1 / H1 is 0.1 or more (0.34 in this embodiment). The tip 8a is offset by the length L1 in a direction away from the opening 7b relative to the hinge portion 9. In conventional technology, the support portion 8 is typically provided to extend almost directly upward from the hinge portion 9, resulting in a very small value of L1, and therefore a very small value of L1 / H1. In contrast, in this embodiment, the value of L1 is increased compared to the conventional technology, thereby making L1 / H1 0.1 or more. This makes it possible to mount a larger solar panel than before.

[0066] L1 / H1 is, for example, 0.1 to 1.0, and specifically, for example, 0.10, 0.15, 0.20, 0.25, 0.30, 0.35, 0.40, 0.45, 0.50, 0.55, 0.60, 0.65, 0.70, 0.75, 0.80, 0.85, 0.90, 0.95, 1.00, and may be in a range between any two of the numerical values ​​exemplified here or equal to or greater than any two of them. H1 is, for example, 200 to 350 mm (277 mm in this embodiment), specifically, for example, 200, 210, 220, 230, 240, 250, 260, 270, 280, 290, 300, 310, 320, 330, 340, 350 mm, or may be in a range between any two of the numerical values ​​exemplified here. L1 is, for example, 20 to 200 mm (94.5 mm in this embodiment), specifically, for example, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, 200 mm, or may be in a range between any two of the numerical values ​​exemplified here.

[0067] If the height from the hinge portion 9 of the highest portion of the support portion 8 that abuts against the main body portion at the center of the hinge portion 9 in the longitudinal direction is H2, then it is preferable that H2 / H1 be 0.2 or more (0.42 in this embodiment). The larger the value of H2 / H1, the wider the range in the height direction over which the support portion 8 is supported by the main body portion 7, resulting in more stable support of the support portion 8. H2 / H1 is, for example, 0.2 to 0.9, and specifically, for example, 0.20, 0.25, 0.30, 0.35, 0.40, 0.45, 0.50, 0.55, 0.60, 0.65, 0.70, 0.75, 0.80, 0.85, or 0.90, and may be in a range between any two of the numerical values ​​exemplified here or greater than any one of them. H2 is, for example, 30 to 200 mm (119 mm in this embodiment), and specifically, for example, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, or 200 mm, or may be in a range between any two of the numerical values ​​exemplified here.

[0068] If the length in the second direction D2 between the highest point where the support portion 8 abuts against the main body portion 7 at the center of the longitudinal direction of the hinge portion and the hinge portion 9 is L2, it is preferable that L2 / H1 be 0.2 or more (0.47 in this embodiment). The larger the value of L2 / H1, the wider the range in the second direction D2 over which the support portion 8 is supported by the main body portion 7, and the more stably the support portion 8 is supported. L2 / H1 is, for example, 0.2 to 0.9, and specifically, for example, 0.20, 0.25, 0.30, 0.35, 0.40, 0.45, 0.50, 0.55, 0.60, 0.65, 0.70, 0.75, 0.80, 0.85, or 0.90, and may be in a range between any two of the values ​​exemplified here or equal to or greater than any two of them. L2 is, for example, 50 to 210 mm (132 mm in this embodiment), and more specifically, for example, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, 200, or 210 mm, or may be in a range between any two of the values ​​exemplified here.

[0069] The main body 7 has an opposing surface 41 that faces the support portion 8. The opposing surface 41 preferably includes a base surface 41a adjacent to the hinge portion 9, an inclined surface 41b inclined relative to the base surface 41a, and a load-receiving surface 41c disposed directly below the upper surface 8b of the support portion 8. The support portion 8 preferably abuts against the main body 7 at least partially on each of the base surface 41a, the inclined surface 41b, and the load-receiving surface 41c. The angle of the base surface 41a relative to the bottom surface 31a of the float 31 is preferably 20 degrees or less, more preferably 10 degrees or less, and even more preferably 5 degrees or less. Furthermore, it is more preferable that the base surface 41a be parallel to the bottom surface 31a.

[0070] If the length of the base surface 41a in the second direction D2 is L3, L3 / L2 is, for example, 0.10 to 0.50 (0.25 in this embodiment), and preferably 0.15 to 0.35. Specific examples of this value include 0.10, 0.15, 0.20, 0.25, 0.30, 0.35, 0.40, 0.45, and 0.50, and may be in a range between any two of the values ​​exemplified here.

[0071] The inclined surface 41b is disposed between the base surface 41a and the load-receiving surface 41c. The plane connecting the boundary line B1 between the base surface 41a and the inclined surface 41b and the boundary line B2 between the inclined surface 41b and the load-receiving surface 41c (in the cross section of FIG. 11, the straight line connecting the boundary line B1a and the boundary point B2a) has an inclination angle with respect to the base surface 41a of, for example, 45 to 75 degrees (60 degrees in this embodiment), preferably 50 to 70 degrees, and more preferably 55 to 65 degrees. The inclined surface 41b preferably includes, in order from the base surface 41a side, a steeply inclined surface 41b1 and a gently inclined surface 41b2. The gently inclined surface 41b2 has a smaller inclination angle with respect to the base surface 41a than the steeply inclined surface 41b1. The steeply inclined surface 41b1 has an inclination angle relative to the base surface 41a of, for example, 60 to 90 degrees (75 degrees in this embodiment), preferably 65 to 85 degrees, and more preferably 70 to 80 degrees. The gently inclined surface 41b2 has an inclination angle relative to the base surface 41a of, for example, 30 to 70 degrees (50 degrees in this embodiment), preferably 40 to 60 degrees, and more preferably 45 to 55 degrees. Specific examples of this angle include 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, and 70 degrees, and may be in a range between any two of the values ​​exemplified here.

[0072] The load-receiving surface 41c preferably has a smaller angle with respect to the base surface 41a than the inclined surface 41b. In this case, if the inclination angle of the load-receiving surface 41c is gentle, which makes it easier for the load of the solar panel 5 to be applied to the load-receiving surface 41c via the support portion 8, the load-receiving surface 41c is more likely to receive the load of the solar panel 5. The inclination angle of the load-receiving surface 41c with respect to the base surface 41a is, for example, 20 degrees or less (4 degrees in this embodiment), preferably 10 degrees or less, and more preferably 6 degrees or less. Specifically, this angle may be, for example, 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 degrees, and may be in a range between any two of the values ​​exemplified here or less than any of the values.

[0073] The support part 8 is preferably fixed to the main body part 7 at the inclined surface 41b (preferably the gently inclined surface 41b2). In this case, the support part 8 in the upright state is prevented from unexpectedly rotating. Examples of fixing methods include screwing, riveting, snap engagement, welding, and adhesive bonding.

[0074] <Solar Panel Module 4> As shown in Figure 8, the solar panel module 4 comprises a solar panel 5 and a frame 6 that supports it. The frame 6 is rectangular and surrounds the solar panel 5, with an upper side 6u, a lower side 6b, a right side 6r, and a left side 6l. As shown in Figures 12 to 14, each side is provided with a plate-like portion 6a that extends from a base 6d toward the inside of the frame 6. The base 6d is provided with an engagement recess 6e into which the solar panel 5 can be attached.

[0075] 12 to 14, the upper support member 2 is fixed to the support part 8. The upper support member 2 is preferably fixed to the back surface 8c of the support part 8, and more preferably fixed in a recess 8d provided in the back surface 8c. The recess 8d is provided so as to be continuous with the top surface 8b.

[0076] The plate-shaped portion 6a of the upper side 6u is supported by the upper support member 2. The upper support member 2 has an engagement groove 2a that opens toward the outside of the frame 6. The plate-shaped portion 6a is supported by the upper support member 2 by engaging with the engagement groove 2a.

[0077] The upper support member 2 includes a base 2b, a first extension 2c, and a second extension 2d. The base 2b is fixed to the support 8 (preferably to the back surface 8c of the support 8). The first extension 2c extends from the base 2b in a direction away from the support 8. The second extension 2d extends in a direction away from the support 8 from a position above an intersection 2e between the base 2b and the first extension 2c. An engagement groove 2a is provided between the first extension 2c and the second extension 2d.

[0078] The upper support member 2 has a mounting hole 2b1 in the base 2b, and can be fixed to the support part 8 by inserting a bolt (not shown) into the mounting hole 2b1 and screwing the bolt into a countersunk nut embedded in the support part 8.

[0079] 8 to 10, the lower support member 3 is fixed to the main body 7. The plate-shaped portion 6a of the lower side 6b is supported by the lower support member 3.

[0080] 2. Method for Manufacturing the Float 31 The method for manufacturing the float 31 according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a molding step and a raising step.

[0081] <Molding Process> In the molding process, a molded body 42 shown in FIG. 15 is formed. The molded body 42 can be formed by blow molding, in which a molten parison (a cylindrical parison or a pair of sheet-shaped parisons) is sandwiched between multiple split molds and inflated. Various thermoplastic resins can be used as the molding material. For example, polyolefin resins such as polyethylene and polypropylene are preferably used. The molded body 42 has a structure in which a support portion 8 is disposed within the opening 7b of a main body portion 7, and the periphery of the support portion 8 is connected to the main body portion 7 via a connecting portion 43. The main body portion 7 and the support portion 8 have the same structure as the float 31.

[0082] In the molding process, as shown in Fig. 16, a molded body 42 can be formed using first and second molds 21, 22 that can be opened and closed. Preferably, the first and second molds 21, 22 each include a mold body 21a, 22a and pieces 21b, 22b that are detachably attached to the mold bodies 21a, 22a. The pieces 21b, 22b are provided to form an area that includes the support portion 8. With this configuration, the shape of the support portion 8 can be changed simply by replacing the pieces 21b, 22b, making it easy to change the shape of the support portion 8 to match the size of the solar panel to be mounted.

[0083] <Raising Process> In the raising process, the main body 7 and the support portion 8 are cut at a portion of the connecting portion 43 other than the portion that will become the hinge portion 9, and then the support portion 8 is rotated around the hinge portion 9 so as to rise up, thereby erecting the support portion 8. In this way, the float 31 having the structure shown in Fig. 10A can be manufactured.

[0084] However, when the cutting is performed, there is a risk that the support portion 8 may rotate in the opposite direction to the raising direction and fall downward. If the support portion 8 falls downward, it may become difficult to raise the support portion 8.

[0085] 17, the main body 7 and the support part 8 are preferably configured so that when the support part 8 rotates downward around the hinge part 9, the support part 8 (preferably the upper surface 8b, more preferably the tip 8a) comes into contact with the inner surface 7b1 of the opening 7b of the main body 7, thereby preventing further rotation of the support part 8. This makes it possible to prevent the support part from falling.

[0086] 1: Solar panel float system, 2: Upper support member, 2a: Engagement groove, 2b: Base, 2b1: Mounting hole, 2c: First extension, 2d: Second extension, 2e: Intersection, 3: Lower support member, 4: Solar panel module, 5: Solar panel, 6: Frame, 6a: Plate-shaped portion, 6b: Lower edge, 6d: Base, 6e: Engagement recess, 6l: Left edge, 6r: Right edge, 6u: Upper edge, 7: Main body, 7b: Opening, 7 b1: inner surface, 8: support portion, 8a: tip, 8b: upper surface, 8c: back surface, 8d: recess, 9: hinge portion, 10: float, 11: support portion, 12: receiving portion, 13: fixing metal fitting, 13a: clamping portion, 13b: fixing member, 14: fixing metal fitting, 19: mounting portion, 21: second mold, 21a: mold body, 21b: bridge, 22: second mold, 22a: mold body, 22b: bridge, 31: float, 31a: bottom surface, 40: structure , 41: opposing surface, 41a: base surface, 41b: inclined surface, 41b1: steeply inclined surface, 41b2: gently inclined surface, 41c: load-bearing surface, 42: molded body, 43: connecting portion, 50: solar panel, 50a: glass portion, 53: base, 54: base, 62: connecting bolt, 62a: bolt hole, 70: mooring portion, 71: first through hole, 72: second through hole, 80: eye bolt, 81: nut, 82: fixing plate, 82a: through hole Through hole, 83: bolt, 84: nut, 100: anchoring member, 101: linear member, 101a: one end, 101b: other end, 102: first linear member, 103: second linear member, 104: third linear member, 105: fixing member, 105a: fixing portion, 150: anchoring member, 200: cushioning member, 201: mounting hook, 202: winding portion, 202a: winding portion, 210: cushioning member, 211: mounting hole, 212: plate-like member

Claims

1. A float system for solar panels for use on water, comprising at least one float and at least one mooring member, the at least one mooring member comprising a linear member, a fixed member and a buffer member, the linear member connecting the at least one float and the fixed member, the fixed member being fixed to the bottom of the water or on land, and the buffer member buffering the tension applied to the linear member.

2. A system as described in claim 1, wherein the linear member is configured by connecting first, second and third linear members in this order, the first linear member is connected to the float, the third linear member is connected to the fixed member, and the buffer member is attached to the second linear member.

3. The system according to claim 2, wherein the second linear member is a resin rope.

4. A system as described in claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the at least one mooring member includes first and second mooring members, the fixing members of the first and second mooring members are fixed at positions different from each other, and the first and second mooring members have first linear members of equal length, second linear members of equal length, and third linear members of different lengths.

5. The system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein both the second and third linear members are resin ropes.

6. A float for mounting a solar panel, comprising a main body and a support part, the main body having an opening, the support part being connected to the main body via a hinge part provided on the outer periphery of the opening, wherein the thickness direction of the float is Dt, the longitudinal direction of the hinge part is a first direction D1, a direction perpendicular to both the thickness direction Dt and the first direction D1 is a second direction D2, the length in the second direction D2 between the tip of the support part and the hinge part at the longitudinal center of the hinge part is L1, and the height of the support part from the hinge part is H1, where L1 / H1 is 0.1 or more.

7. A float as claimed in claim 6, wherein, assuming that the height from the hinge section of the highest part of the support section that is in contact with the main body section at the longitudinal centre of the hinge section is H2, H2 / H1 is 0.2 or more.

8. A float as claimed in claim 6, wherein, when the length in the second direction D2 between the highest point where the support part abuts against the main body part and the hinge part at the longitudinal centre of the hinge part is L2, L2 / H1 is 0.2 or more.

9. A float as set forth in any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the main body and the support are configured such that, when the support rotates downward around the hinge portion, the support abuts against the inner surface of the opening, thereby preventing further rotation of the support.

10. A method for manufacturing a float, comprising: a molding step and a raising step, wherein in the molding step, a molded body is formed, wherein the molded body has a structure in which a support part is disposed within an opening of a main body part and the periphery of the support part is connected to the main body part via a connecting part, and in the raising step, the main body part and the support part are cut at a part of the connecting part other than a part that will become a hinge part, and then the support part is rotated so as to raise it around the hinge part, thereby erecting the support part to manufacture the float, wherein the thickness direction of the float is Dt, the longitudinal direction of the hinge part is a first direction D1, and a direction perpendicular to both the thickness direction Dt and the first direction D1 is a second direction D2, wherein the length in the second direction D2 between the tip of the support part and the hinge part at the longitudinal center of the hinge part is L1 and the height of the support part is H1, and L1 / H1 is 0.1 or more.

11. A method according to claim 10, wherein in the molding step, the molded body is formed using first and second molds which can be opened and closed, each of the first and second molds having a mold body and a piece configured to be detachably attached to the mold body, and the piece is arranged to form an area including the support portion.

Images