BE1029866A1 - OFF-LAND SOLAR FLOAT MODULE - Google Patents

Abstract

Offshore floating solar energy module comprising: • a solar panel assembly comprising a solar panel for generating photovoltaic energy and • a vertically constructed floating assembly to keep the module afloat while at the same time limiting the impact of waves on the floating assembly, the module further having a support frame comprising a vertical post, the first post extending along a vertical direction between an upper end configured to be above the water level and a lower end configured to be below the water level, the top section of the first post adjacent the top end of the first post holding the solar panel assembly, and wherein the float assembly includes a thermoplastic float comprising one or more thermoplastic sub-floats attached to the first post between the top end and the bottom end of it.

Description

1 BE2021/5824

OFF-LAND SOLAR FLOAT MODULE

Technical field

The present invention relates to an offshore floating solar energy module, a vessel comprising a plurality of modules and an offshore floating solar island comprising a plurality of modules or vessels.

The present invention further relates to a kit of parts for assembling the offshore floating solar energy module, and a float for use in the offshore floating solar energy module. Finally, the invention also relates to a method for installing the offshore floating solar energy module, the vessel or the island. The offshore floating solar energy module is hereinafter referred to simply as “the module”.

Background

Offshore floating solar energy modules are known in the art, such as in patent publication EP3693261. Said known offshore floating solar energy module comprises a solar panel assembly comprising a solar panel for generating photovoltaic energy. The module further includes a buoyancy assembly for keeping the module afloat.

Such floating solar modules are designed to be used in offshore conditions, i.e. in seas and oceans, as distinct from inland conditions, i.e. in inland waters such as on lakes or the like. The floating modules in offshore conditions must withstand very different environments than floating modules for inland conditions. For example, the former are designed to withstand: a) the salty environment, b) the high wind speeds, c) the high water flow, for example due to ocean currents or tides, and d) the waves.

2 BE2021/5824

In offshore conditions, for example, the solar panel assembly must be protected against the salty seawater that could end up on the solar panels, for example due to high waves or, for example, by tilting the module in the wind or in the waves, such that the panel is close to the water level comes. Therefore, the modules are adapted to the offshore conditions, for example by raising the position of the solar panel assembly relative to the water level, and for example by providing a vertically constructed floating assembly. The former ensures that waves do not reach the solar panels, and the latter keeps the module afloat and at the same time restricts the movement of the buoyancy assembly, for example due to wave action and water resistance. After all, due to the smaller cross-sectional area of the buoyancy assembly at the water level, less force is exerted by the pressure of waves and water resistance. The buoyancy assembly of the prior art module is typically a spar buoy with a metal cylindrical hull extending between an upper end and a lower end. The upper end of the spar buoy carries the solar panel of the solar panel assembly.

In offshore conditions the buoyancy assembly is in salt water, so it should preferably be protected against corrosion due to the salty environment. To this end, corrosion-protective means are preferably provided on the module, for instance in the form of a corrosion-resistant coating on the metal parts of the module.

In offshore conditions, the strong flow rates can move the modules out of their intended position. Therefore, a strong mooring connection is preferably provided to the module, and the module is preferably made of a rigid construction to withstand the tensile forces associated with the mooring connection. The arrangement of the vertically constructed buoyancy assembly as described above offers the additional advantage that gravity pulls on the module in line with, i.e. along the same vertical axis as the upward buoyancy force created by the buoyancy assembly. This contributes to the reduction of the force moments on the module, making the provision of the sturdy construction relatively less important.

3 BE2021/5824

However, the prior art modules have a problem. The present inventor has found that different offshore conditions require different types of offshore floating solar energy module. It is known, for example, that the North Sea has higher waves than the

Mediterranean Sea, with the result that offshore floating solar modules in the North Sea must be designed with a higher elevation of the solar panel assembly, thinner buoyancy assemblies (to reduce the cross-sectional area of the buoyancy assembly at sea level) and greater fracture strength (to prevent break up, e.g. due to the stresses of the mooring connections or e.g. due to waves, etc.).

In the prior art, this requires the production of a completely different offshore floating solar energy module, i.e. at least with a different diameter metal hull (i.e. to change the cross-sectional area of the hull to change water resistance and wave action). ), a metal hull with a different length (i.e. to change the elevation of the solar panel assembly above the water level and to compensate for a changing hull diameter to at least maintain the volume of the hull) and a hull with a different wall thickness (i.e. ... to change the breaking strength of the hull).

Thus, it has also been found by the present inventors that in offshore solar energy islands, which contain a plurality of offshore solar energy modules, different conditions apply to the modules at the border of the island and to the modules located more centrally in the island, where less buoyancy, resistance under water resistance and fracture strength are required more centrally in the island than at the edge of the island, where the modules are exposed to undamped wave pressures and water resistance. Again, island production requires the production of a range of different offshore solar modules with a range of different properties, such as at least a smaller diameter hull for the centrally located modules and a larger diameter hull for those are located on the border of the island, as explained above.

Alternatively, the centrally located modules and the modules at the island boundary may be uniformly designed to at least accommodate the most adverse conditions encountered in the island

4 BE2021/5824 occur, where for example they are all designed to withstand the undamped pressures of waves and water resistance that occur at the island's boundary. However, this results in the centrally located modules being designed to meet stricter specifications than necessary. That designing for unnecessarily strict design specifications also applies mutatis mutandis to modules intended for use in other oceans/seas. Such overly strict specifications lead to a module that is not adequate for most situations and increases production costs. The latter is partly due to the fact that the too strictly designed modules are produced with thicker hull walls (i.e. to increase the breaking strength of the hull), with a smaller diameter (i.e. to reduce the diameter of the hull in order to on a smaller cross-sectional area) and with a greater length (i.e. to maintain at least the desired volume to create the desired buoyancy and to increase the elevation height of the solar panel assembly above the water level), increasing material costs, e.g. the material of the hull itself and of the anti-corrosion coatings (because of the greater wall thickness and the larger surface area of the hull designed too strictly, a larger volume of hull material must be provided).

Description of the invention

It has been found that having to produce a range of different offshore floating solar energy modules, as required in the prior art, such as in patent publication EP3693261, is expensive and time consuming, and that designing modules to overly stringent specifications, as explained above , is inadequate and pricey in most situations.

Thus, there is a need for an offshore floating solar energy module that is easier to adapt, i.e. cheaper and faster to adapt, to different offshore conditions. To this end, the present invention provides the offshore floating solar energy module according to claim 1. The offshore floating solar energy module is hereinafter also referred to simply as "the module". The offshore floating solar power module includes a solar panel assembly which in turn includes a solar panel for generating photovoltaic energy. The module further includes a vertically constructed buoyancy assembly to keep the module buoyant while at the same time limiting the impact of waves on the buoyancy assembly.

As explained above, the provision of a vertically constructed buoyancy assembly yields a spar buoy-like assembly with a smaller cross-sectional area at water level, making the module more suitable for offshore conditions.

Preferably, the float assembly has a length along a vertical direction and a diameter perpendicular to the vertical direction, the length being at least two times, three times, four times, five times or more of the diameter.

Preferably, the float assembly is adapted to raise the solar panel of the solar panel assembly to such an elevation relative to the water level that an average wave action on the solar panel is considerably limited.

To this end, the degree of elevation of the solar panel, for instance of the lowest point of the solar panel, with respect to the water level is preferably at least 3 metres, preferably at least 4 metres, preferably at least 5 metres, preferably at least 6 metres. metres, most preferably at least 7 metres.

However, the exact elevation is a function of the offshore conditions at the installation site, which are known to those skilled in the art.

Preferably, the degree of elevation of the solar panel, for example from the lowest point of the solar panel, relative to the center of buoyancy of the module is at least 3 metres, preferably at least 4 metres, preferably at least 5 metres, preferably at least 6 metres, most preferably at least 7 metres.

The module of the present invention further comprises a support frame comprising a vertical post, hereinafter referred to as the first post.

A stud is also known as a beam or rod.

The first stud is preferably a metal stud.

The first style is a rigid style.

The first strut extends along a vertical direction between an upper end configured to be above water level and a lower end configured to be below water level.

The top end preferably includes a hook such that the module can be lowered/raised from the water level, for example by means of a crane.

The top section of the first post, i.e., the section adjacent to the top end of the first post, holds the solar panel assembly.

The buoyancy assembly comprises a thermoplastic float comprising one or more partial floats attached to the first post between its upper end and its lower end, in particular between the lower end of the

6 BE2021/5824 first post and the position of the first post where the first post holds the solar panel assembly. Preferably, the thermoplastic float has a length along a vertical direction and a diameter perpendicular to the vertical direction, the length being at least two times, three times, four times, five times or more of the diameter. Preferably, the thermoplastic float is substantially elongated along the vertical direction. Preferably, the thermoplastic float has a substantially cylindrical shape. Alternatively, the float has a shape that is elliptical in cross-section with a plane oriented perpendicular to the vertical direction. This shape offers the advantage of reducing water resistance when moving the floating module from the coast to the offshore location where it will be placed.

Providing the vertically constructed buoyancy assembly with a thermoplastic buoy attached to the first strut, as described above, provides the additional advantage that gravity pulls on the module in line with, i.e. along the same vertical axis as the upward buoyancy force being applied. created by the float assembly. This contributes to the reduction of the force moments on the module, making the provision of the sturdy construction relatively less important.

Unlike the prior art, where the float assembly is also the support frame, the present invention provides separate elements for the float assembly and the support frame. This offers the advantage that the production of offshore floating solar energy modules becomes considerably cheaper and faster. Indeed, for the modules of the present invention, the same support frame can be used as the base structure for a range of different modules configured to withstand different offshore conditions, as required by different seas or as required by different positions of the modules in an offshore floating solar system. energy island. The module can easily be adapted to different offshore conditions by providing a different thermoplastic float and/or by changing the location of the float's attachment to the first strut. For example, the latter is a simple way to change the elevation of the solar panel assembly above sea level. By fixing the float to a mounting location closer to the top end of the first stile!

7 BE2021/5824, the elevation of the solar panel assembly above the water level is after all reduced. A different thermoplastic float, for example with a different length along the vertical direction or with a different diameter, can be obtained by either changing the design of the thermoplastic float or by assembling more or fewer partial floats. The former can be done in a fast and cheap way, especially when the thermoplastic float is made by injection moulding. The latter makes the float of the float assembly modular, i.e. different floats can be created by simply assembling more or less sub-floats. The plurality of sub-drivers are preferably separated from each other. Preferably, the plurality of partial floats are substantially the same, in particular with regard to shape and material. Thereby, the production cost of the floating module is further reduced, since only one type of mold has to be paid for. According to a particular embodiment of the present invention, the buoyancy assembly comprises, for example, two or more, preferably substantially identical, sub-floats placed on top of each other in the vertical direction. In other words, the float is divided into sub-elements along the vertical direction.

This offers the advantage that the buoyancy of the module can be easily increased or decreased by respectively increasing or decreasing the number of vertically stacked partial floats. Preferably, each part float extends vertically, i.e. with a length greater than its diameter. Preferably, each partial float is substantially cylindrical. Alternatively, the sub-floats have a shape that is elliptical in cross-section with a plane oriented perpendicular to the vertical direction.

Moreover, since the buoyancy assembly in the present invention is formed independently of the support frame, both can be optimized for their respective functions of providing buoyancy and providing structural integrity (i.e., increasing breaking strength), respectively. After all, the floats should not absorb heavy loads on the module, such as the loads resulting from water resistance on the module, which are transferred to the supporting frame via the mooring ropes, as will be explained below, or, for example, such as wind forces acting on the large surfaces. of the solar panel assembly. Those taxes

8 BE2021/5824 is received by the support frame, and the support frame can be completely designed for this purpose without the need to take into account the required buoyancy at the same time. An additional advantage of the present invention is that the thermoplastic floats are intrinsically resistant to corrosion, unlike the metal hull of the float assembly in the prior art. This drastically reduces the cost of applying anti-corrosion coatings. Preferably, a corrosion protection agent, for example in the form of a corrosion-resistant lining/coating, is applied to the supporting frame, but not to the floats.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the float comprises connecting means for connecting the float to the first post. Preferably, the connecting means comprise a channel that extends vertically through the float, i.e. through the one or more partial floats. The vertically extending channel accommodates the first style. Preferably, the vertically extending channel and the first post are both rectilinear. Preferably, the vertically extending channel and the first post have a similar shape. According to an embodiment, the vertically extending channel is located substantially centrally in the float. This offers the advantage that the buoyancy force is symmetrical around the first strut, reducing force moments on the first strut. According to one embodiment, the float, i.e. the one or more partial floats, is retained on the first strut by means of a frictional fit between the vertically extending channel and the first strut.

According to an embodiment, the connecting means, for instance further comprise at least one rigid plate, for instance a metal plate, for instance a steel plate, which is attached to the float and to the first post. Preferably, each partial float is connected to the first post by means of such a rigid plate. These rigid plates make it possible to minimize friction on the plastic surface of the part floats. The rigid plates ensure that the float is optimally shielded against loads, for example as a result of wave action, the pressure of flowing water, or as a result of wind forces acting on the solar panel assembly. In particular, they ensure that the float is not pressed against the first strut (or vice versa) in such a way that a point contact (for example due to a

9 BE2021/5824 rotational movement of the float or the first post) or a line contact (for example due to a translational movement of the float or the first post) would be made between the float and the first post. After all, such point or line contact would result in a high pressure being exerted on the float, which pressure could deform the thermoplastic material of the floats. In one embodiment, the rigid plates are arranged horizontally, i.e. virtually perpendicular to the vertical direction. These rigid plates are, for example, fitted between two sub-floats and on top of the upper sub-float. Alternatively or additionally, rigid plates can be arranged vertically, i.e. substantially perpendicular to the circumferential direction about the axial vertical direction. Preferably, the rigid plates are attached to the part float by means of a plurality of bolts. The vertical rigid plates are typically arranged between sections of the partial floats, as will be described below.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the float is formed by molding. It has been found that for offshore applications where thermoplastics are used, only two methods are preferred, namely injection molding and rotational molding. Particular preference is given to injection moulding. It has been found that injection molding makes it possible to produce large quantities of floats with reproducible precision. It has also been found that injection molding makes it easy to adjust the rigidity of the float, since all wall thicknesses can be precisely defined and selected, and internal ribs can be freely designed. In addition, although the basic investment in tooling and machinery is more expensive for injection moulding, it appears that the products are much more economical than rotational molding when large quantities are required. It has been found by the present inventors that blow molded products have too thin walls and do not offer the design freedom necessary to create the required rigid connection for offshore applications.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the sub-driver, e.g. each sub-driver, comprises two or more separately produced sections. Making the part floats in sections rather than as a single part offers the advantage of reducing the production process

10 BE2021/5824 simplified.

After all, it is easier to produce and process smaller parts, such as the sections, instead of producing large parts, such as the full part driver.

Moreover, such smaller parts are relatively firmer than large parts.

In a first embodiment, the sections are connectable by means of a male-female connector part provided on the sections, i.e. one section comprises a male part, such as a projection, and another section comprises a female part, such as a recess in which the male part can be included.

Preferably the male and/or female part comprises a sealing means, such as a sealing rubber, to provide a watertight connection between the sections.

Preferably, the sections are welded together after being joined to form the sub-float, preferably after being joined in situ on the first post to form the sub-float.

In this first embodiment, the connecting means preferably do not comprise the vertical rigid plates, but possibly only the horizontal rigid plates as described above.

Preferably, a plurality of horizontal rigid plates are attached to the first post at regular intervals such that the part floats fit between the horizontal rigid plates.

In a second, alternative embodiment, the sections are attached, for example bolted, to the rigid vertical plates of the connecting means, as described above.

In one embodiment, the sections comprise wedge-like elements, i.e. elements obtained by cutting a cylinder along two planes perpendicular to the circumferential direction of the cylinder.

In other words, each sub-driver is sub-divided into sub-elements along the circumferential direction, i.e. along the direction around the vertical direction.

Preferably, the sections comprise orthogonal wedge-like elements, i.e. elements obtained by cutting a cylinder along two planes, each perpendicular to the circumferential direction of the cylinder, the two planes being substantially perpendicular to each other.

In one embodiment, the two or more connected sections together define the vertical channel so that the float assembly can be mounted by connecting the two or more sections together around the first post.

According to one embodiment, the entire section is produced by molding, preferably injection molding, i.e. the sections preferably have a wall and an internal reinforcing web structure formed by injection molding.

In one embodiment, sections of the comprise two or more

11 BE2021/5824 connected sections, for example all sections, a cavity in which a floating substance, preferably polystyrene, is placed. The cavity is preferably a cavity shaped like a cylindrical shell with the vertical direction as the axial direction. The buoyant substance preferably has a shape similar to that of the cavity so as to substantially fill the cavity. Preferably, the sections, with the exception of the cavities described above, are filled with a gas such as air.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the module further includes a ballast to prevent the module from capsizing. The ballast also has the function of damping the movements of the module caused by the waves. The ballast is preferably connected to the first post, preferably to the lower section of the first post, i.e. the section of the first post adjacent to the lower end of the first post, preferably below the position on the first post where the float is attached. Preferably, the ballast is connected to the lower end of the first post. Placing a ballast under the float offers the advantage that the module becomes self-stabilizing/self-balancing. This increases the stability of the module, making it more seaworthy. Connecting the ballast to the first post, and not to the float, offers the advantage that the float is loaded as little as possible. Placing the ballast on the first post offers the additional advantage that the weight of the ballast and the buoyancy force are aligned, i.e. along the vertical direction. This alignment helps to reduce the force moments on the module, making the provision of the sturdy construction relatively less important. Preferably, the mass of the ballast is more than 50%, preferably 100%, more preferably 150% of the mass of the rest of the module, for instance of the supporting frame and the solar panel assembly. According to an embodiment, the ballast comprises two or more partial ballasts that are connected to each other. In other words, the ballast is preferably modular, such that the amount of ballast can be easily adjusted depending on the offshore conditions in which the module will be installed. It has been found by the present inventors that by providing the ballasts and the thermoplastic floats as modular elements, the module can easily be adapted to the

12 BE2021/5824 desired environmental conditions, for example by using the same support frame for different circumstances, but with a different number and/or different positioning of the partial ballasts and partial floats. For example, the module is subject to different environmental conditions depending on the seas/oceans in which it is placed, or is subject to different environmental conditions depending on the position of the module in the offshore floating solar island, as will be described later. In the latter case, the modules that are placed closer to the border of the island, for example, require a greater ballast than the modules that are located more centrally in the island. However, when the ballast of the modules that are more centrally located in the island is reduced, the number of sub-floats must be reduced at the same time or the positioning of the sub-floats must be increased in the direction of the first end of the first post, in such a way that all modules in the island have substantially the same elevation of their solar panel assembly relative to the water level. This offers the advantage that one solar panel does not cast a shadow on another solar panel that would be closer to the water level.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the module further includes mooring ropes attached to the module. The mooring ropes are preferably attached to the support frame. This offers the advantage that the tension in the mooring ropes, for example as a result of the flow of water and the pressure of waves, is exerted on the support frame and not on the float, so that the load on the float remains as low as possible. The supporting frame preferably comprises anchoring elements to which the mooring ropes can be attached.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the solar panel assembly comprises two solar panels arranged sequentially in a V-shape with their apex facing upward along the vertical direction. This offers the advantage that less wind force can be exerted on the solar panel assembly, i.e. the solar panel assembly has a more aerodynamic shape. This offers the advantage that the support frame has to carry less load, making providing the module with a solid construction relatively less important.

13 BE2021/5824

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the solar panel assembly includes a thermoplastic cover, preferably formed as one or more rigid plates, below the solar panel to prevent waves and wind from reaching the fragile solar panel. The thermoplastic cover is preferably produced by injection moulding. The thermoplastic cover preferably comprises a base plate and at least two lateral plates extending upwardly from the base plate. The lateral plates are preferably triangular in shape to accommodate the solar panel assembly at an angle to the base plate. The lateral plates are arranged to prevent wind from blowing between the solar panels and the base plate, reducing the loads on the module. The lateral plates include connecting means to easily connect the solar panel to the lateral plates, for example by means of a “click and place” connection, which eliminates the need to bolt the solar panel to the thermoplastic cover. The thermoplastic cover further includes cable openings for receiving electrical cables coming from the solar panel. Preferably, the thermoplastic cover is the support frame of the solar panel assembly, as will be described below.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the support frame includes an additional vertical post, referred to as the second post. Said second strut is preferably a metal strut. The second style is a rigid style. The second strut extends along the vertical direction between an upper end configured to be above water level and a lower end configured to be below water level. The top section of the second post is the section of the second post adjacent to the top end of the second post. That upper section preferably also holds the solar panel assembly. The float assembly includes an additional thermoplastic float comprising one or more partial floats attached to the second post between its upper and lower ends. Said additional thermoplastic float has the same preferred embodiments as the thermoplastic float of the first style as described above, i.e. all of the above described preferred embodiments of the first style and its thermoplastic float also apply mutatis mutandis to the second style!

14 BE2021/5824 and its additional thermoplastic float. The first post and the second post are preferably connected to each other by means of a first transverse post, preferably a horizontal post. A horizontal stud is a stud that extends in the horizontal direction, i.e. substantially perpendicular to the vertical direction, between the first and second studs. This style is preferably a metal style. This style is a rigid style. Thus, the support frame in the present embodiment is formed by the first post, the second post and the first transverse post. The first transverse strut is preferably located between the lower ends of the first and second struts and their respective thermoplastic float. The first transverse post is preferably rigidly connected to the first post and to the second post, i.e. the connection does not include hinges on the first or second post such that the upward movement of the first post entails an upward movement of the second post. entails, and vice versa. In one embodiment, the solar panel assembly includes a solar panel attached to both the first and second posts, i.e. the solar panel may extend between the two posts, i.e. the first and second posts hold the same solar panel. This offers the advantage that a larger surface area can be covered by the solar panel. Preferably, the solar panel assembly includes a solar panel support frame connected between the first post and the second post.

Preferably, the thermoplastic cover mentioned above (e.g. having a base plate and lateral plates) forms the solar panel support frame. The solar panel support frame is preferably connected to the first and second posts by means of a connection having the nature of a gimbal. The connection having the nature of a gimbal is preferably a semi-cardan connection that allows the rotation of the solar panel support frame about the horizontal direction. This offers the advantage that the orientation of the solar panels can be maintained even when the supporting frame sways due to the movements of waves. Preferably, the position of the center of gravity of the solar panel assembly along the vertical direction is below the position of the gimbals on the first and second posts. This has a self-stabilizing effect that is comparable to that of applying the ballast to the module.

15 BE2021/5824

According to an embodiment of the present invention, a vessel is provided. The vessel comprises a plurality of offshore floating modules as described above connected together. Preferably, the offshore floating modules are modules comprising the first strut and the second strut, as described above. For example, the connection is established by making the second post of a first module common to the first post of the second module. That type of connection is preferably used when the modules are connected in series, as will be explained below. Alternatively, the connection is made, for example, by means of additional transverse posts that rigidly connect a first module to a second module, i.e. without hinges, i.e. such that the upward movement of one module causes the upward movement of the connected module. The additional transverse posts preferably extend perpendicular to the vertical direction. That type of connection is preferably used when modules are connected in parallel, as will be explained below. The multitude of offshore floating modules are connected in series and/or parallel. The serial connection is a connection in a first direction perpendicular to the vertical direction, and the parallel connection is a connection in a second direction perpendicular to the vertical direction, the second direction being perpendicular to the first direction. When the module includes both the first and second posts, as described above, the connection in series is preferably a connection along the horizontal direction, i.e. along the direction perpendicular to the vertical direction, connecting the first and second posts . When the module includes both the first and second posts, as described above, the parallel connection is preferably a connection along the direction perpendicular to the vertical direction and the horizontal direction. According to a particularly interesting embodiment, the vessel is a trimaran comprising three rows of parallel offshore floating modules. That means that three modules are connected in parallel and each of those modules is either connected in series with no other module (i.e. a row of 1), or connected with a number of modules in series (i.e. a row of more than 1) . Compared to a single hull, the stability of trimarans is much higher, which allows for a higher density of solar panels as trimarans can be placed closer together in an offshore floating solar island.

16 BE2021/5824

In addition, there is no collision of solar panels within the trimaran, since they all move up and down simultaneously. Preferably, the vessel comprises walking platforms. This allows a maintenance worker to walk on the vessel and inspect the solar panel assembly. This is possible in particular thanks to the rigidly connected additional transverse posts between the modules.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, an offshore solar energy island is provided. An offshore solar island comprises a plurality of offshore floating solar modules or a plurality of vessels connected to each other by means of non-rigid connections, i.e. by means of struts with hinged joints or by means of ropes or chains, i.e. such that the upward movement of one module or vessel does not cause the upward movement of the connected module or vessel. The island includes outer floating solar modules or vessels forming a boundary of the island and further includes inner floating solar modules or vessels enclosed by the outer floating solar modules or vessels. It has been found by the present inventors that the outer modules or vessels preferably have a greater ballast than the inner modules or vessels because the inner modules or vessels are shielded from environmental forces, such as water resistance, wave action or wind, by the outer modules or vessels. However, when the ballast of the modules that are more centrally located in the island is reduced, the number of sub-floats must be reduced at the same time or the positioning of the sub-floats must be increased in the direction of the first end of the first post, in such a way that all modules in the island have substantially the same elevation of their solar panel assembly relative to the water level. This offers the advantage that one solar panel does not cast a shadow on another solar panel that would be closer to the water level. Thus preferably the floating solar modules of the inner floating solar modules or vessels are lighter and have less buoyancy than the floating solar modules of the outer floating solar modules or vessels.

An additional object of the present invention is to provide a kit of parts for forming the offshore floating module such as

17 BE2021/5824 described above. The kit of parts includes the support frame, solar panel assembly and float assembly. The embodiments described above with respect to each of those components also apply mutatis mutandis to the components as part of the kit of parts. The kit of parts preferably also includes one or more of the other elements of the module described, such as the ballasts. In one embodiment, the kit of parts is a kit of parts for forming the vessel as described above. That kit of parts is the same as the kit of parts of the module, with the supporting frames of different modules connected in series or parallel as described above.

An additional object of the present invention is to provide a thermoplastic part float configured for use in the float assembly of the offshore solar energy module as described above. The embodiments described above with regard to the sub-drivers also apply mutatis mutandis to the sub-driver per se. For example, in one embodiment, the thermoplastic sub-float comprises two or more interconnected sections, the two or more interconnected sections together defining a vertical channel such that the float assembly can be mounted by connecting the two or more sections together around the first style. According to one embodiment, the sub-float extends along an axial direction and is defined by an elliptical cross-sectional shape with a plane oriented perpendicular to the axial direction. This shape offers the advantage of reducing water resistance when moving the floating module from the coast to the offshore location where it will be placed.

An additional object of the present invention is to provide a method for installing the offshore floating module as described above. The method includes the step of providing the kit of parts as described above, the step of determining the required elevation of the solar panel assembly above sea level, and the step of connecting the floats of the float assembly to the first post, and if applicable the second post, from the support frame at the mounting location at the corresponding height on the post.

18 BE2021/5824

Figures Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an Embodiment of vessel according to the present invention. Figure 2 shows a first side view of the vessel shown in Figure 1. Figure 3 shows a second side view of the vessel shown in Figure 1. Figure 4 shows a top view of the vessel which can be seen in Figure 1. Figure 5 shows a perspective view of a detail of an offshore floating solar energy module in the vessel of Figure 1. In Figure 5a and Figure 5b the module is shown without and with all sub-floats, respectively and partial ballasts.

Description of the figures

As can be seen in the figures, the vessel 1 comprises a plurality of offshore floating modules 2 connected together. Each offshore floating solar energy module 2 comprises a solar panel assembly 3 which in turn comprises two solar panels 4a, 4b for generating photovoltaic energy. The module further comprises a vertically constructed buoyancy assembly 5 to keep the module buoyant and at the same time limit the impact of waves on the buoyancy assembly. After all, the provision of a vertically constructed buoyancy assembly results in a spar buoy-like assembly with a smaller cross-sectional area at water level, which makes the module2 more suitable for offshore conditions. The float assembly 5 has a length along a vertical direction and a diameter perpendicular to the vertical direction, the length being at least twice the diameter. The float assembly 5 is arranged to raise the solar panels 4a, 4b of the solar panel assembly 3 to such an elevation relative to the water level as to significantly alleviate an average wave action on the solar panel. The module 2 further comprises a supporting frame 6 comprising a rigid vertical metal post 7, which is hereinafter referred to as the

19 BE2021/5824 first style is mentioned.

The first strut 7 extends along a vertical direction between an upper end configured to be above the water level and a lower end configured to be below the water level.

The upper end includes a hook 8 such that the module 2 can be lowered/raised from the water level by means of a crane.

The top section of the first post 7, i.e. the section adjacent to the top end of the first post, holds the solar panel assembly 3.

The float assembly 5 comprises a thermoplastic float comprising three partial floats 9a, 9b, 9c placed one on top of the other and attached to the first post 7 between its upper and lower ends.

Note that in figure 5b the module 2 can be seen with the three sub-drivers 9a, 9b, 9c, while in figure 5a the module 2 can be seen before the installation of the third sub-driver 9c, in order to improve the modularity of the modules 2 of the to demonstrate the present invention. Each thermoplastic part float 9a, 9b, 9c has a substantially cylindrical shape.

The float includes connecting means for connecting the float to the first strut.

The connection means comprise a channel extending vertically through the float, i.e. through the three sub-floats.

The vertically extending channel accommodates the first strut 7. The vertically extending channel and the first strut 7 are both rectilinear and have a similar cross-sectional shape in a plane oriented perpendicular to the vertical direction.

The vertically extending channel is located substantially centrally in the float, i.e. substantially centrally in the three sub-floats 9a, 9b, 9c.

The connecting means further comprise a plurality of rigid plates attached to both the float and the first post 7 . Each sub-float 9a, 9b, 9c is particularly connected to the first post 7 by means of such rigid plates.

One rigid plate 10 is arranged horizontally, i.e. almost perpendicular to the vertical direction above the upper part float 9a.

The rigid plate 10 ensures that the partial floats push the first post 7 upwards.

In addition, four rigid plates 114, 11b, 11c, 11d are arranged vertically, i.e. substantially perpendicular to the circumferential direction about the axial vertical direction.

The vertical rigid plates 114, 11b, 11c, 11d are arranged between sections of each sub-floater, as will be explained below.

The vertical rigid plates are attached to the part floats by means of a plurality of bolts 12. Each

BE2021/5824 part float 9a, 9b, 9c, comprises four interconnected sections 13a, 13b, 13c, 13d which are bolted to the four vertical rigid plates 11a, 11b, 11c, 11d.

The sections 13a, 13b, 13c, 13d are wedge-like elements, i.e. elements obtained by cutting a cylinder along two planes perpendicular to the circumferential direction of the cylinder.

In particular, the sections are substantially orthogonal wedge-like elements, i.e. elements obtained by cutting a cylinder along two planes each perpendicular to the circumferential direction of the cylinder, the two planes being substantially perpendicular to each other.

The four interconnected sections 13a, 13b, 13c, 13d together define the vertical channel so that the float assembly can be mounted by connecting the two or more sections together around the first post 7. Each of the complete sections is produced by by injection moulding, i.e. the sections have a wall and an internal reinforcing web structure formed by injection moulding.

The module 2 further comprises a ballast 14 to prevent the module from capsizing.

The ballast 14 is connected to the lower end of the first post.

The ballast 14 comprises three partial ballasts 15a, 15b, 15c which are connected to each other.

Note that in figure 5b the module 2 can be seen with the three subballasts 15a, 15b, 15c, while in figure 5a the module 2 can be seen before the installation of the third subballast 15c, in order to improve the modularity of the modules of the present demonstrate invention.

In a similar way to the partial floats 9a,9b,9c, the partial ballasts 15a, 15b, 15c are also connected to the first post 7 by means of vertical rigid plates.

In a similar way to the sub floats 9a, 9b, 9c, each of the sub ballasts 15a, 15b, 15c also comprises four sections.

The solar panel assembly 3 includes two solar panels 4a, 4b arranged sequentially in a V-shape with their apex facing upward along the vertical direction.

The support frame 6 comprises an additional rigid vertical post 16 in metal, which is called the second post.

Said second strut 16 extends along the vertical direction between an upper end configured to be above the water level and a lower end configured to be below the water level.

The top section of the second post 16 is the section of the second post adjacent to the top end of the second post.

That top section also holds the solar panel assembly 3, i.e. together with the top section of the first post 7. The float assembly 5 comprises

21 BE2021/5824 an additional thermoplastic float comprising three partial floats attached to the second post 16 between its upper and lower ends. Said additional thermoplastic float has the same characteristics as the thermoplastic float of the first strut 7, as described above. The first post 7 and the second post 16 are connected to each other by means of two transverse posts 17 extending in a horizontal direction. The support frame 6 of the module 2 is thus formed by the first post 7, the second post 16 and the two transverse posts 17. The two transverse posts 17 are rigidly connected to the first post 7 and to the second post 16, i.e. the connection does not include hinges on the first or second post such that the upward movement of the first post! involves an upward movement of the second style, and vice versa.

The solar panel assembly 3 comprises two solar panels 4a, 4b attached to both the first and second posts 7, 16, i.e. the solar panels extend between the two posts, i.e. the first and second posts hold the same solar panel. The solar panel assembly 3 includes a solar panel support frame 18 connected between the first post 7 and the second post 16. The solar panel support frame 18 is connected to the first 7 and the second post 16 through a gimbal type connection. The connection with the nature of a gimbal is a semi-cardan connection that allows the rotation of the solar panel support frame 18 about the horizontal direction. The position of the center of gravity of the solar panel assembly 3 along the vertical direction is below the position of the gimbals on the first and second posts. This has a self-stabilizing effect that is comparable to that of applying the ballast to the module.

A plurality of offshore floating modules 2 are rigidly connected to each other to form the vessel 1 . Some of the connections are made by making the second post 16 of a first module common to the first post 7 of the second module. That type of connection is used when modules 2 are connected in series, as will be explained below. Some of the connections are made by means of additional rigid transverse posts 19 in metal that rigidly connect a first module to a second module, i.e. without hinges, i.e. in such a way that the

DD BE2021/5824 upward movement of one module causes the upward movement of the connected module. The additional transverse posts 19 extend in a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction. That type of connection is used when modules are connected in parallel, as will be explained below.

The plurality of offshore floating modules 2 are connected in series and in parallel. The serial connection is a connection in a first direction perpendicular to the vertical direction, and the parallel connection is a connection in a second direction perpendicular to the vertical direction, the second direction being perpendicular to the first direction. The connection in series is a connection along the horizontal direction, i.e. along the direction perpendicular to the vertical direction, connecting the first and second posts 7, 16 together. The parallel connection is a connection along the direction perpendicular to the vertical direction and the horizontal direction. The depicted vessel 1 is a trimaran comprising three rows of parallel offshore floating modules 2. In particular, three modules are connected in parallel and each of those modules is connected in series with four additional modules.

Claims (27)

23 BE2021/5824 Conclusions 1. Offshore floating solar energy module comprising ° a solar panel assembly comprising a solar panel for generating photovoltaic energy and ° a vertically constructed floating assembly to keep the module afloat while at the same time limiting the impact of waves on the floating assembly, characterized in that the module further includes a support frame comprising a vertical post, the first post, extending along a vertical direction between an upper end configured to be above water level and a lower end configured to be below water level wherein the top section of the first post adjacent the upper end of the first post holds the solar panel assembly, and wherein the float assembly includes a thermoplastic float comprising one or more thermoplastic sub-floats attached to the first post between the upper end and its lower end. The offshore floating solar energy module according to the first claim, wherein the floating assembly comprises two or more partial floats placed on top of each other in the vertical direction. The offshore floating solar energy module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the thermoplastic float extends substantially along the vertical direction and wherein the thermoplastic float preferably has an elliptical shape in a plane oriented perpendicular to the vertical direction. The offshore floating solar energy module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the float comprises connection means for connecting the float to the first strut, the connection means preferably comprising a channel extending vertically through the float, the float being first style is included in the channel. 24 BE2021/5824 The offshore floating solar energy module according to the preceding claim, wherein the vertically extending channel is located substantially centrally in the float. The offshore floating solar assembly according to any one of the preceding claims 4 to 5 wherein the float is retained on the first strut by a frictional fit between the vertically extending channel and the first strut. The offshore floating solar assembly according to any one of the preceding claims 4 to 6, wherein the connecting means further comprises a rigid plate attached to the float and to the first post, preferably each sub-float being connected to the first style by means of a rigid plate to minimize friction on the plastic surface of the part float. The offshore floating solar energy module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the part floats are formed by injection moulding. The offshore floating solar energy module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sub-float comprises two or more separately produced sections. The offshore floating solar energy module according to the preceding claim in combination with claim 5 wherein the two or more sections together define a vertical channel for receiving the first strut such that during mounting of the offshore floating module the floating assembly can be mounted by connecting the two or more sections around the first stud. The offshore floating solar energy module according to any one of the preceding claims 9 to 10, wherein the two or more sections comprise an opening in which a floating substance, preferably polystyrene, is arranged. The offshore floating solar energy module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the module further comprises a ballast to prevent the module from capsizing, the ballast being connected 25 BE2021/5824 is with the lower section of the first post adjacent to the lower end of the first post, below the float. The offshore floating solar energy module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the ballast comprises two or more sub-ballasts connected together. The offshore floating solar energy module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the module further comprises mooring ropes attached to support frame. The offshore floating solar power module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the solar panel assembly comprises two solar panels arranged sequentially in a V-shape with their apex pointing upward along the vertical direction. The offshore floating solar energy module according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the solar panel assembly includes a thermoplastic cover under the solar panel to prevent waves from reaching the solar panel. The offshore floating solar energy module according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the support frame comprises an additional vertical post, the second post, extending along a vertical direction between an upper end configured to be above the water level. and a lower end configured to be below the water level, with the upper section of the second style! adjacent the upper end of the second post further holding the solar panel assembly, the float assembly including an additional thermoplastic float comprising one or more partial floats attached to the second post between its upper and lower ends, and the first strut and the second strut are joined together by a first transverse strut, the first transverse strut being preferably located between the lower end of the first and second struts and their respective thermoplastic floats, and the first transverse strut being at preferably rigidly connected to the first post and to the second post. 26 BE2021/5824 The offshore floating solar energy module according to the preceding claim wherein the solar panel assembly comprises a solar panel support frame connected between the first strut and the second strut, the solar panel support frame preferably connected to the first and second struts through a connection to the nature of a gimbal, and wherein the position of the center of gravity of the solar panel assembly along the vertical direction is preferably below the position of the gimbal. Vessel comprising a plurality of offshore floating modules according to any one of the preceding claims 17 to 18, wherein the plurality of offshore floating modules are connected in series and/or parallel, preferably by means of additional transverse posts with rigid connections in the parallel connection. The vessel according to the preceding claim wherein the assembly is a trimaran comprising three rows of parallel offshore floating modules. An offshore solar island comprising a plurality of offshore floating solar modules according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 16 connected together by means of non-rigid connections, or a plurality of vessels according to any one of the preceding claims 17 to 18 connected together by means of non-rigid connections. The offshore solar island according to the preceding claim wherein the island comprises outer floating solar modules or vessels forming a boundary of the island, and further comprising inner floating solar modules or vessels enclosed by the outer floating solar -power modules or vessels, preferably with the inner floating solar modules being lighter and less buoyant than the outer floating solar modules, or preferably having the floating solar modules of the inner vessels being lighter and less buoyant than the floating solar energy modules of the outer vessels. 27 BE2021/5824 A kit of parts for forming the offshore floating module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the kit of parts comprises the support frame, the solar panel assembly and the float assembly. A thermoplastic sub-float configured for use in the offshore solar module buoyancy assembly according to any one of the preceding claims. The thermoplastic part float according to the preceding claim wherein the part float comprises two or more sections joined together, the two or more sections joined together defining a vertical channel such that the float assembly can be mounted by connecting the two or more sections together. to tie around the first post. The thermoplastic part float according to any one of the preceding claims 24 to 25 wherein the part float extends along an axial direction and is defined by an elliptical cross section shape with a plane oriented perpendicular to the axial direction . A method of installing the offshore floating module according to any of the preceding claims 1 to 21, the method comprising providing the kit of parts according to the preceding claim 23, determining the required elevation of the solar panel assembly above sea level, and connecting the floats of the float assembly to the first post, and if applicable the second post, of the support frame at the mounting location at the corresponding height on the post.