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EP3326236B1 - Mobile antennas support device - Google Patents

Mobile antennas support device Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3326236B1
EP3326236B1 EP16762830.4A EP16762830A EP3326236B1 EP 3326236 B1 EP3326236 B1 EP 3326236B1 EP 16762830 A EP16762830 A EP 16762830A EP 3326236 B1 EP3326236 B1 EP 3326236B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
floating
support
fad1
fdn
sfc2
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP16762830.4A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP3326236A1 (en
Inventor
Michel CALZAS
Cédric BRACHET
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique CNRS
Original Assignee
Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique CNRS
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
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Publication date
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Publication of EP3326236A1 publication Critical patent/EP3326236A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP3326236B1 publication Critical patent/EP3326236B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01Q—ANTENNAS, i.e. RADIO AERIALS
    • H01Q1/00—Details of, or arrangements associated with, antennas
    • H01Q1/12—Supports; Mounting means
    • H01Q1/18—Means for stabilising antennas on an unstable platform
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01Q—ANTENNAS, i.e. RADIO AERIALS
    • H01Q1/00—Details of, or arrangements associated with, antennas
    • H01Q1/27—Adaptation for use in or on movable bodies
    • H01Q1/28—Adaptation for use in or on aircraft, missiles, satellites, or balloons
    • H01Q1/30—Means for trailing antennas
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01Q—ANTENNAS, i.e. RADIO AERIALS
    • H01Q1/00—Details of, or arrangements associated with, antennas
    • H01Q1/27—Adaptation for use in or on movable bodies
    • H01Q1/34—Adaptation for use in or on ships, submarines, buoys or torpedoes
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01Q—ANTENNAS, i.e. RADIO AERIALS
    • H01Q3/00—Arrangements for changing or varying the orientation or the shape of the directional pattern of the waves radiated from an antenna or antenna system
    • H01Q3/02—Arrangements for changing or varying the orientation or the shape of the directional pattern of the waves radiated from an antenna or antenna system using mechanical movement of antenna or antenna system as a whole
    • H01Q3/08—Arrangements for changing or varying the orientation or the shape of the directional pattern of the waves radiated from an antenna or antenna system using mechanical movement of antenna or antenna system as a whole for varying two co-ordinates of the orientation

Definitions

  • the invention relates to the field of antenna support devices, sensors, or even measuring devices, and more particularly to those intended to move on moving or uneven surfaces.
  • Oceanographic studies aim to determine the level of the oceans and seas at various points and use to do this methods and systems implementing transmissions between a mobile antenna and one or more satellites.
  • the duration of transmissions between two devices that share the same clock reference allows a measurement of the distance between them. This is a measurement principle widely used in various systems, such as, for example, GPS positioning (from the English “Global Positioning System”, and which means global geolocation system.).
  • the method for measuring the level of the surfaces of the oceans and/or the seas can be based on transmissions between a device in view of these and one or more devices evolving on the surface or surfaces concerned. It may in particular be a satellite, the altitude of which is constant or substantially constant (constant average altitude) and controlled, exchanging information with a transmission device present on a craft.
  • the relief (shape) of the surfaces of the oceans or the seas is by definition non-planar and varies significantly as a function of time, in particular due to meteorological conditions (currents, wind speed and direction, etc.). Disparities in shape therefore exist as a function of time and of the precise place where a measurement must be made.
  • buoying in the following paragraphs designates both the buoyancy capacity in the sense of unsinkability and a variable wave motion entirely or partially on a tumbling surface, or partially in the immediate vicinity of this surface. evolution surface.
  • the surface of evolution being able to be the surface of water (sea, oceans, rivers, lakes, ponds, rivers) or a surface of evolution such as, for example, a sand desert, dunes, a salt lake, an expanse of fairly uneven vegetation or even an expanse of snow or an uneven glacier, an iceberg, an ice cap.
  • At least a part of the floating elements comprises an unsinkable material surrounded by an envelope whose edges are joined to edges of neighboring floating elements in the plurality of floating elements, by means of at least one wireframe element.
  • the mechanical element included in the antenna support comprises a ball joint and/or a gimbal integral with an element coupling it mechanically to the third surface which operates the antenna support function (on which the antenna or any sensor is fixed).
  • the length of the floating antenna support device exceeds 10 meters and its width exceeds 3 meters.
  • modules represented are functional units, which may or may not correspond to physically distinguishable units. For example, these modules or some of them are grouped together in a single component. Conversely, according to other embodiments, certain modules are composed of separate physical entities.
  • FIG 1 represents a floating antenna support device FAD1 according to a particular and non-limiting embodiment of the invention.
  • the FAD1 device comprises an assembly of floating elements FD1 to FDn, assembled in a matrix by their edges, and thus forming a floating layer, provided with a lower surface SFC1, adapted to be towed and to deform according to the reliefs of an SFC2 surface on which it evolves, so that advantageously and cleverly coupled with a FIXSYS fixing device, the moving assembly makes it possible to position an antenna carried by the FIXSYS support (on an SFC3 surface not shown in this figure) to preserve as much as possible a horizontal positioning of the antenna and then guarantee integrity of transmissions to and from a remote device in the sky (a satellite, for example).
  • the floating elements FD1 to FDn are assembled to each other by means of an MS1 fixing system.
  • the MS1 fastening system comprises a set of eyelets arranged on the edge of the floating elements, and one or more wire elements passing through the eyelets so as to establish flexible links between neighboring floating elements.
  • the wired element(s) crossing the eyelets then operate a lacing of the neighboring floating elements.
  • the floating elements comprise thin and flexible edges assembled by means of magnetic fasteners comprising polarized magnets to form in pairs attractions capable of forming solid mechanical links and resistant to tearing when the assembly is towed on the surface of a liquid medium or on a surface whose relief is not very uneven (sand, beach, salt desert, sand desert, snow, glacier outside the serac zone, for example).
  • the edges of the floating elements FD1 to FDn are assembled by fixing of the “Velcro” type or even glued.
  • the floating elements are assembled by a system of “pressure” buttons or “zip” closure.
  • a retractable fastening system makes it possible to modulate the total surface of the web and allows it to be assembled and disassembled, which in particular facilitates its transport.
  • the sheet is fixed to floating elements BU formed to increase the navigability of the assembly on an SFC2 gymnastics surface.
  • BU elements can, for example, be inflatable boats or canoes with a rigid frame, buoys formed to cut through the water, or floating "sockets" adapted to raise the front of the slick, that is to say the part most likely to be mechanically constrained when the assembly slides on the SFC2 tumbling surface.
  • the assembly FAD1 of the sheet and the floating elements BU comprises an attachment device HK suitable for fixing the floating device FAD1 to a tractor device, by a direct rigid link, or by means of an element of coupling such as a rope or sling, for example.
  • the HK fastening system is positioned on the longitudinal axis of the assembly, and thus avoids the appearance of a skidding movement of the together on the SFC2 surface.
  • This brings in particular a better flatness of the sheet having a support surface SFC1 on a surface of evolution SFC2, which makes it possible to reduce the mechanical stresses (such as the drag) and improves the flatness of the floating sheet, which advantageously increases the horizontal conservation capacity of an antenna support surface configured as described above.
  • the FADn elements positioned "at the rear" of the ply with respect to its direction of movement, when the latter is towed by means of the attachment system HK, comprise a set of drags Tn configured to stabilize the rear edge of the assembly on the SFC2 tumbling surface.
  • FIG 2 represents two floating elements FD1 and FD2, neighboring and fixed to each other among the assembly of the figure 1 , according to a particular and non-limiting mode of the invention.
  • the MS1 fastening system makes it possible to attach neighboring elements, such as FD1 and FD2 by lacing and with a wired tie W1 which alternately crosses (lacing method) CH eyelets arranged at the edge of the COAT envelope of the floating elements FD1 and FD2. This method of attachment more generally ensures an effective and flexible link between the floating elements FDn.
  • the element providing flotation due to its low density (containing air or polystyrene for example, is maintained in a formed COAT envelope, possibly waterproof, and whose edges are thinner than the body, so as to be able to carry eyelets or perforations adapted to the passage of the wired link W1.
  • the wired link W1 can be a cord made of synthetic or natural material, a steel cable, or any other type of link which is similar.
  • FIG. 3 represents the FIXSYS antenna mounting bracket of the FAD1 device of the figure 1 , fixed on several floating elements such as those represented figure 2 and according to a particular and non-limiting embodiment of the invention.
  • the floating elements FD1, FD2, as well as two others neighboring floating elements not visible in the figure carry a structure on 4 feet, including F01 and F03 (but also F02 and F04 not shown in this figure since not sensibly visible according to this view).
  • the feet support a circular crown PATSUP carrying a sphere PAT integral with a column carrying at its end a mass WGHT.
  • the weight WGHT ensures a horizontal or substantially horizontal positioning of a surface SFC3 arranged in the upper part of the “incomplete” sphere PAT.
  • the weight WGHT directed downwards adjusts the position of the PAT + WGHT + SFC3 assembly by pivoting the spherical part PAT in its support PATSUP, so that the surface SFC3 configured to carry an antenna can maintain an orientation of all or part of an ANT antenna towards the sky, and therefore towards a remote data transmission device (in transmission and/or reception).
  • a support column of the mass WGHT integral with the sphere PAT, carries a fixing element of several "elastic" links (with “spring” effect).
  • Each of these links E01, E02, E03 and E04 (only E01 and E03 are represented on this view) is respectively attached to a fixing point HK01, HK02, HK03 and HK04 thus allowing a damping of movements at the same time as a return in neutral position when the FIXSYS assembly is not tilted in relation to a vertical axis.
  • An ANTCON link allows the connection of the ANT antenna positioned on the horizontal surface SFC3 of the FIXSYS system to a remote transmission/reception device useful for processing geolocation data transmitted or received to and from a remote data transmission device (a satellite, airplane, remote antenna, etc.).
  • the coupling of the FIXSYS device on the sheet of floating elements makes it possible to guarantee, if not continuity of data transmissions between local equipment connected to the ANT antenna and remote equipment, at least better integrity and reliability of communications.
  • this makes it possible to carry out measurements by moving the antenna ANT on an SFC2 surface called evolution, since the ply formed by the floating elements FDn comprises a support surface SFC1 (lower surface) that is deformable and capable of conforming as well as possible to the reliefs of the evolution surface SFC2.
  • the surface SFC2 is the surface of a sea, a lake, an ocean or even a river or a river and the traction by a boat of the assembly FAD1 makes it possible to carry out height measurements of water and altitude of the SFC2 surface with respect to a predefined reference frame such as, for example, the orbit of one (or more) satellite(s) or a set of topographic points whose position is known and which alone constitute or together a measurement reference.
  • a predefined reference frame such as, for example, the orbit of one (or more) satellite(s) or a set of topographic points whose position is known and which alone constitute or together a measurement reference.
  • FIG 4 represents the FIXSYS support fixed to the floating elements, already represented picture 3 , but when the surface on which the FAD1 device moves is uneven (in the presence of greater relief), according to a particular and non-limiting embodiment of the invention.
  • the FIXSYS system is inclined as a whole with respect to a vertical axis, and this due to the relief of the surface SFC2 which comprises a plurality of floating elements FD1 to FDn.
  • the floating elements are each arranged so as to fit this surface as closely as possible by creating a lower surface SFC1 of the layer which they together constitute substantially “parallel” to SFC2.
  • This predetermined length can be from a few tens of centimeters to several meters, depending in particular on the total surface of the web made up of the floating elements, but also on its shape (rather longitudinal, rather rectangular, square, circular, oval).
  • the slick may display a profile comprising "breaks" in terms of linearity or curvature and thus lead to a strong inclination of the FIXSYS fixing system, which nevertheless leads to positioning conditions that are detrimental to transmissions between an antenna positioned on the SFC3 surface and a remote device.
  • the large size of the layer comprising the FDn elements and the nature of the MS1 links which connect the floating elements makes it possible to integrate the deformations of the SFC2 surface and to average the reliefs so as to define an "average" relief conducive to the metrology sought (average altitude of the surface of a sea for example, or altitude of the average surface) up to a certain level of relief which corresponds to the predetermined length at all points of the same vertical, between the surface of SFC1 support and the SFC2 tumbling surface.
  • the invention provides a substantial improvement in the measurement capabilities on the surface of an ocean, for example.
  • the overall shape of the floating and spherical, square, oval elements and the links fixing neighboring elements together are wired or mechanical. Whatever its shape, the goal remains that a large-scale assembly comprising a plurality of floating elements FDn has a support surface SFC1 which matches as much as possible a surface SFC2 called the surface of evolution, so that, due to the combined use of the ply thus formed and the FIXSYS fixing system, the SFC3 surface remains as often as possible in a horizontal or quasi-horizontal position.
  • quasi-horizontal position is meant an angle between the surface SFC3 and the horizon which remains within a range of values less than 30 degrees, for example.
  • the spherical element PAT can be replaced by a mechanical universal joint system allowing the tilting of a mechanical part carrying the antenna support surface SFC3 along two perpendicular axes.
  • the floating support device FAD1 useful for carrying out water height and surface topology readings of seas, lakes, oceans, and waterways, for example, comprises the plurality of elements floats FD1, FD2, FD3, FDn, all unsinkable and assembled so as to together form a first surface SFC1, called support surface, adapted to float on a second surface SFC2 and/or arranged substantially parallel to this second surface.
  • the floating elements FD1, FD2, FD3, FDn are interconnected by at least one of their respective edges by means of the fixing system MS1 comprising the eyelets CH and the wired link W1.
  • the FAD1 floating support "ply” device comprises the anchoring element HK arranged on its longitudinal axis and suitable for attaching an attachment device, for example to allow a boat to tow it on the surface of the water.
  • the floating support device FAD1 comprises the fixing support FIXSYS fixed to at least one or some of the floating elements FD1, FD2, FD3, FDn, ideally in the central part of the sheet.
  • the FIXSYS support device comprises a surface FS3 designed to support a radiofrequency signal transmission antenna and an articulated mechanical element, consisting mainly of the elements PATSUP, PAT and WGHT, adapted to a substantially horizontal positioning of the antenna support surface SFC3 when the the water table evolves substantially parallel to the water surface SFC2, i.e. when a distance LG of pairs of points facing each other vertically and belonging respectively to the support surface SFC1 of the layer FAD1 and to the surface of the water (the second surface FS2) does not exceed one predetermined length. Or, in other words, when the mobile antenna support sheet FAD1 “marries” (or floats on) the surface of the water SFC2.
  • the FAD1 support ply consists of floating elements FD1, FD2, FD3, FDn which are made from a floating and unsinkable material FM each surrounded by the COAT envelope, the edges of which are assembled to the edges of neighboring floating elements in the sheet FAD1 by means of at least the wire element W1.
  • the mechanical element PATSUP comprises the (partially) spherical ball joint PAT or an equivalent in the form of a gimbal, integral with the antenna support plate coupling it mechanically to the surface SFC3 which offers a mounting support for the mobile antenna ANT.
  • the invention is not limited to the single embodiment described, together with the aforementioned variants, but relates more generally to any floating antenna support device comprising an anchoring element to be towed and further comprising a support/system fixing fixed to at least one floating element among a plurality of floating elements together constituting a layer and comprising an antenna support surface and a mechanical element adapted to a substantially horizontal positioning of the antenna support surface when the distance separating pairs of points, facing each other vertically, and belonging respectively to the bearing surface of the sheet made up of floating elements and to the surface of movement, do not exceed a predetermined length.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Astronomy & Astrophysics (AREA)
  • Aviation & Aerospace Engineering (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Remote Sensing (AREA)
  • Details Of Aerials (AREA)
  • Support Of Aerials (AREA)

Description

1. Domaine de l'invention.1. Field of the invention.

L'invention se rapporte au domaine des dispositifs supports d'antenne, de capteurs, ou encore de dispositifs de mesure, et plus particulièrement à ceux destinés à évoluer sur des surfaces mouvantes ou non planes.The invention relates to the field of antenna support devices, sensors, or even measuring devices, and more particularly to those intended to move on moving or uneven surfaces.

2. Etat de l'art.2. State of the art.

Des études océanographiques visent à déterminer le niveau des océans et des mers en divers points et utilisent pour ce faire des méthodes et systèmes mettant en oeuvre des transmissions entre une antenne mobile et un ou plusieurs satellites.Oceanographic studies aim to determine the level of the oceans and seas at various points and use to do this methods and systems implementing transmissions between a mobile antenna and one or more satellites.

La durée des transmissions entre deux dispositifs qui partagent une même référence d'horloge permet une mesure de distance entre eux. C'est là un principe de mesure largement utilisé, dans divers systèmes, tels que, par exemple le positionnement GPS (de l'anglais « Global Positioning System », et qui signifie système de géolocalisation global.).The duration of transmissions between two devices that share the same clock reference allows a measurement of the distance between them. This is a measurement principle widely used in various systems, such as, for example, GPS positioning (from the English “Global Positioning System”, and which means global geolocation system.).

La méthode de mesure du niveau des surfaces des océans et/ou des mers peut s'appuyer sur des transmissions entre un dispositif en vue de celles-ci et un ou plusieurs dispositifs évoluant sur la ou les surfaces concernées. Il peut notamment s'agir d'un satellite, dont l'altitude est constante ou sensiblement constante (altitude moyenne constante) et contrôlée, échangeant des informations avec un dispositif de transmission présent sur une embarcation. Cependant, le relief (la forme) des surfaces des océans ou des mers est par définition non-plan et varie sensiblement en fonction du temps, notamment du fait des conditions météorologiques (courants, vitesse et orientation des vents, etc.). Des disparités de forme existent donc en fonction du temps et de l'endroit précis où une mesure doit être effectuée.The method for measuring the level of the surfaces of the oceans and/or the seas can be based on transmissions between a device in view of these and one or more devices evolving on the surface or surfaces concerned. It may in particular be a satellite, the altitude of which is constant or substantially constant (constant average altitude) and controlled, exchanging information with a transmission device present on a craft. However, the relief (shape) of the surfaces of the oceans or the seas is by definition non-planar and varies significantly as a function of time, in particular due to meteorological conditions (currents, wind speed and direction, etc.). Disparities in shape therefore exist as a function of time and of the precise place where a measurement must be made.

Des méthodes utilisées consistent à embarquer un dispositif muni d'une antenne ou connecté à une antenne, sur une embarcation et en vue du ciel, l'antenne devant demeurer en vue du ou des satellites utilisés. Malheureusement, les disparités de formes (relief) des surfaces sont telles que les antennes utilisées ne sont pas toujours correctement disposées en regard du ou des faisceaux de transmission, ce qui a pour effet d'entrainer des erreurs de transmissions, voire des interruptions totales de celles-ci. US 2014/070977 A1 divulgue une nappe flottante sous forme de couverture dans laquelle sont intégrées des antennes.Methods used consist in embarking a device provided with an antenna or connected to an antenna, on a boat and in view of the sky, the antenna having to remain in view of the satellite(s) used. Unfortunately, the disparities in the shapes (relief) of the surfaces are such that the antennas used are not always correctly placed opposite the transmission beam(s), which has the effect of causing transmission errors, or even total interruptions of these. US 2014/070977 A1 discloses a floating sheet in the form of a cover in which antennas are integrated.

Les solutions existantes présentent donc des inconvénients.The existing solutions therefore have drawbacks.

3. Résumé de l'invention.3. Summary of Invention.

L'invention permet d'améliorer l'état de l'art en proposant un dispositif en « nappe », support d'antenne ou de capteurs, ou encore de dispositifs de mesure, mobile et flottant, comprenant une pluralité d'éléments flottants assemblés de sorte à former ensemble une nappe comprenant une première surface dite surface d'appui adaptée à flotter sur une seconde surface dite surface d'évolution et/ou disposée sensiblement parallèlement à la seconde surface, le dispositif comprenant :

  • les éléments flottants reliés entre eux par au moins un de leurs bords respectifs au moyen d'un premier système de fixation,
  • le dispositif support flottant comprend un élément d'ancrage (ou d'accrochage) disposé sur son axe longitudinal et adapté à une fixation d'un dispositif d'accrochage, et,
  • le dispositif flottant comprend en outre un support de fixation avec articulation fixé sur au moins l'un des éléments flottants et comprenant au moins une troisième surface et un élément mécanique adapté à un positionnement sensiblement horizontal de la troisième surface lorsque la distance de couples de points en regard verticalement l'un de l'autre et appartenant respectivement à la première surface (surface d'appui) et à la seconde surface (surface d'évolution) n'excède pas une longueur prédéterminée.
The invention makes it possible to improve the state of the art by proposing a "sheet" device, antenna or sensor support, or even measuring devices, mobile and floating, comprising a plurality of floating elements assembled so as to together form a sheet comprising a first surface called the support surface adapted to float on a second surface called the surface of evolution and/or arranged substantially parallel to the second surface, the device comprising:
  • the floating elements interconnected by at least one of their respective edges by means of a first fastening system,
  • the floating support device comprises an anchoring (or hooking) element arranged on its longitudinal axis and suitable for fixing a hooking device, and,
  • the floating device further comprises a mounting bracket with articulation attached to at least one of the floating elements and comprising at least a third surface and a mechanical element adapted to a substantially horizontal positioning of the third surface when the distance of pairs of points facing vertically from each other and belonging respectively to the first surface (support surface) and to the second surface (tumbling surface) does not exceed a predetermined length.

Cela revient à dire que lorsque la nappe flottante se déforme pour épouser au mieux le relief moyen à la surface de l'eau, son couplage, avec un support mécanique articulé et adapté à présenter une surface la plus horizontale possible, permet de garantir un positionnement amélioré d'une antenne ou d'un capteur fixé sur cette surface, pour préserver en conséquence l'intégrité des transmissions de données utile aux mesures à réaliser.This amounts to saying that when the floating layer deforms to best match the average relief on the surface of the water, its coupling, with an articulated mechanical support adapted to present the most horizontal possible surface, makes it possible to guarantee positioning improved with an antenna or a sensor fixed on this surface, to consequently preserve the integrity of the data transmissions useful for the measurements to be carried out.

Il est à noter que le terme « flottant » dans les paragraphes suivant désigne aussi bien la capacité de flottaison au sens de l'insubmersibilité qu'un mouvement ondulatoire variable entièrement ou partiellement sur une surface d'évolution, ou partiellement à proximité immédiate de cette surface d'évolution. La surface d'évolution pouvant être la surface de l'eau (mer, océans, fleuves, lacs, étangs, rivières) ou une surface d'évolution telle que, par exemple, un désert de sable, des dunes, un lac salé, une étendue de végétation peu accidentée ou encore une étendue de neige ou un glacier peu accidenté, un iceberg, une calotte glacière.It should be noted that the term "floating" in the following paragraphs designates both the buoyancy capacity in the sense of unsinkability and a variable wave motion entirely or partially on a tumbling surface, or partially in the immediate vicinity of this surface. evolution surface. The surface of evolution being able to be the surface of water (sea, oceans, rivers, lakes, ponds, rivers) or a surface of evolution such as, for example, a sand desert, dunes, a salt lake, an expanse of fairly uneven vegetation or even an expanse of snow or an uneven glacier, an iceberg, an ice cap.

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, au moins une partie des éléments flottants comprend un matériau insubmersible entouré d'une enveloppe dont les bords sont assemblés à des bords d'éléments flottants voisins dans la pluralité d'éléments flottants, au moyen d'au moins un élément filaire.According to one embodiment of the invention, at least a part of the floating elements comprises an unsinkable material surrounded by an envelope whose edges are joined to edges of neighboring floating elements in the plurality of floating elements, by means of at least one wireframe element.

Avantageusement, l'élément mécanique compris dans le support d'antenne (ou le support de capteur quelconque) comprend une rotule et /ou un cardan solidaire d'un élément le couplant mécaniquement à la troisième surface qui opère la fonction de support d'antenne (sur laquelle l'antenne ou un quelconque capteur est fixé).Advantageously, the mechanical element included in the antenna support (or any sensor support) comprises a ball joint and/or a gimbal integral with an element coupling it mechanically to the third surface which operates the antenna support function (on which the antenna or any sensor is fixed).

Selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention, la longueur du dispositif support d'antenne flottant excède 10 mètres et sa largeur excède 3 mètres.According to one embodiment of the invention, the length of the floating antenna support device exceeds 10 meters and its width exceeds 3 meters.

4. Liste des figures.4. List of Figures.

L'invention sera mieux comprise, et d'autres particularités et avantages apparaîtront à la lecture de la description qui va suivre, la description faisant référence aux dessins annexés parmi lesquels :

  • La figure 1 représente un dispositif support d'antenne flottant FAD1 selon un mode de réalisation particulier et non limitatif de l'invention. Le dispositif FAD1 comprend un assemblage d'une pluralité d'éléments flottants FD1 à FDn.
  • La figure 2 représente deux éléments flottants FD1 et FD2, voisins et fixés l'un à l'autre parmi l'assemblage de la figure 1, selon un mode de réalisation particulier et non limitatif de l'invention.
  • La figure 3 représente un support de fixation d'antenne FIXSYS du dispositif FAD1 de la figure 1, fixé sur plusieurs éléments flottants FDn, tels que ceux représentés figure 2, et selon un mode de réalisation particulier et non limitatif de l'invention.
  • La figure 4 représente le support FIXSYS fixé aux éléments flottants, déjà représentés figure 3, mais lorsque la surface (dite d'évolution) sur laquelle évolue le dispositif FAD1 est accidentée (en présence de reliefs), selon un mode de réalisation particulier et non limitatif de l'invention.
The invention will be better understood, and other particularities and advantages will become apparent on reading the description which follows, the description making reference to the appended drawings, among which:
  • There figure 1 represents a floating antenna support device FAD1 according to a particular and non-limiting embodiment of the invention. The device FAD1 comprises an assembly of a plurality of floating elements FD1 to FDn.
  • There figure 2 represents two floating elements FD1 and FD2, neighboring and fixed to each other among the assembly of the figure 1 , according to a particular and non-limiting embodiment of the invention.
  • There picture 3 represents a FIXSYS antenna mounting bracket of the FAD1 device of the figure 1 , fixed on several floating elements FDn, such as those represented figure 2 , and according to a particular and non-limiting embodiment of the invention.
  • There figure 4 represents the FIXSYS support fixed to the floating elements, already represented picture 3 , but when the (so-called evolution) surface on which the device FAD1 evolves is uneven (in the presence of reliefs), according to a particular and non-limiting embodiment of the invention.

5. Description détaillée de modes de réalisation de l'invention.5. Detailed description of embodiments of the invention.

Sur les figures 1 à 4 , les modules représentés sont des unités fonctionnelles, qui correspondent ou non à des unités physiquement distinguables. Par exemple, ces modules ou certains d'entre eux sont regroupés dans un unique composant. A contrario, selon d'autres modes de réalisation, certains modules sont composés d'entités physiques séparées.On the figures 1 to 4 , the modules represented are functional units, which may or may not correspond to physically distinguishable units. For example, these modules or some of them are grouped together in a single component. Conversely, according to other embodiments, certain modules are composed of separate physical entities.

La figure 1 représente un dispositif support d'antenne flottant FAD1 selon un mode de réalisation particulier et non limitatif de l'invention. Le dispositif FAD1 comprend un assemblage d'éléments flottants FD1 à FDn, assemblés en matrice par leurs bords, et formant ainsi une nappe flottante, pourvue d'une surface inférieure SFC1, adaptée à être tractée et à se déformer en fonction des reliefs d'une surface SFC2 sur laquelle elle évolue, de sorte qu'avantageusement, et astucieusement couplée à un dispositif de fixation FIXSYS, l'ensemble en mouvement permette de positionner une antenne portée par le support FIXSYS (sur une surface SFC3 non représentée sur cette figure) pour préserver le plus possible un positionnement horizontal de l'antenne et garantir alors une intégrité de transmissions vers et depuis un équipement distant dans le ciel (un satellite, par exemple).There figure 1 represents a floating antenna support device FAD1 according to a particular and non-limiting embodiment of the invention. The FAD1 device comprises an assembly of floating elements FD1 to FDn, assembled in a matrix by their edges, and thus forming a floating layer, provided with a lower surface SFC1, adapted to be towed and to deform according to the reliefs of an SFC2 surface on which it evolves, so that advantageously and cleverly coupled with a FIXSYS fixing device, the moving assembly makes it possible to position an antenna carried by the FIXSYS support (on an SFC3 surface not shown in this figure) to preserve as much as possible a horizontal positioning of the antenna and then guarantee integrity of transmissions to and from a remote device in the sky (a satellite, for example).

Les éléments flottants FD1 à FDn sont assemblés les uns aux autres au moyen d'un système de fixation MS1. Selon le mode de réalisation préféré, le système de fixation MS1 comprend un ensemble d'oeillets disposés en bordure des éléments flottants, et un ou plusieurs éléments filaires traversant les oeillets de sorte à établir des liens souples entre des éléments flottants voisins. Le ou les éléments filaires traversant les oeillets opèrent alors un laçage des éléments flottants voisins. Selon une variante du mode de réalisation, les éléments flottants comprennent des bords fins et souples assemblés au moyen de fixations magnétiques comprenant des aimants polarisés pour former par couples des attractions capables de constituer des liens mécaniques solides et résistants à l'arrachement lorsque l'ensemble est tracté à la surface d'un milieu liquide ou sur une surface dont le relief et peu accidenté (sable, plage, désert de sel, désert de sable, neige, glacier hors zone de séracs, par exemple). Selon une autre variante du mode de réalisation, les bords des éléments flottants FD1 à FDn sont assemblés par fixation de type « velcro » ou encore collés. Selon une autre variante encore, les éléments flottants sont assemblés par un système de boutons « pression » ou de fermeture « zip ».The floating elements FD1 to FDn are assembled to each other by means of an MS1 fixing system. According to the preferred embodiment, the MS1 fastening system comprises a set of eyelets arranged on the edge of the floating elements, and one or more wire elements passing through the eyelets so as to establish flexible links between neighboring floating elements. The wired element(s) crossing the eyelets then operate a lacing of the neighboring floating elements. According to a variant of the embodiment, the floating elements comprise thin and flexible edges assembled by means of magnetic fasteners comprising polarized magnets to form in pairs attractions capable of forming solid mechanical links and resistant to tearing when the assembly is towed on the surface of a liquid medium or on a surface whose relief is not very uneven (sand, beach, salt desert, sand desert, snow, glacier outside the serac zone, for example). According to another variant of the embodiment, the edges of the floating elements FD1 to FDn are assembled by fixing of the “Velcro” type or even glued. According to yet another variant, the floating elements are assembled by a system of “pressure” buttons or “zip” closure.

Avantageusement, un système de fixation escamotable permet de moduler la surface totale de la nappe et en autorise le montage et le démontage, ce qui en facilite notamment le transport.Advantageously, a retractable fastening system makes it possible to modulate the total surface of the web and allows it to be assembled and disassembled, which in particular facilitates its transport.

Selon le mode de réalisation préféré, la nappe est fixée à des éléments flottants BU formés pour accroitre la navigabilité de l'ensemble sur une surface d'évolution SFC2. Ces éléments BU peuvent, par exemple, être des barques ou canots gonflables à armature rigide, des bouées formées pourfendre l'eau, ou des « boudins » flottants adaptés à relever l'avant de la nappe, c'est-à-dire la partie la plus susceptible d'être contrainte mécaniquement lors d'un glissement de l'ensemble sur la surface d'évolution SFC2.According to the preferred embodiment, the sheet is fixed to floating elements BU formed to increase the navigability of the assembly on an SFC2 gymnastics surface. These BU elements can, for example, be inflatable boats or canoes with a rigid frame, buoys formed to cut through the water, or floating "sockets" adapted to raise the front of the slick, that is to say the part most likely to be mechanically constrained when the assembly slides on the SFC2 tumbling surface.

Avantageusement, l'ensemble FAD1 de la nappe et des éléments flottants BU comprend un dispositif d'accrochage HK adapté à la fixation du dispositif flottant FAD1 à une dispositif tracteur, par un lien direct rigide, ou par l'intermédiaire d'une élément de couplage tel qu'une corde ou une élingue, à titre d'exemple.Advantageously, the assembly FAD1 of the sheet and the floating elements BU comprises an attachment device HK suitable for fixing the floating device FAD1 to a tractor device, by a direct rigid link, or by means of an element of coupling such as a rope or sling, for example.

Avantageusement, et aux fins de faciliter le glissement de l'ensemble FAD1 sur la surface SFC2, le système de fixation HK est positionné sur l'axe longitudinal de l'ensemble, et évite ainsi l'apparition d'un mouvement de dérapage de l'ensemble sur la surface SFC2. Ceci amène notamment une meilleure planéité de la nappe présentant une surface d'appui SFC1 sur une surface d'évolution SFC2, ce qui permet d'amoindrir les contraintes mécaniques (telles que la trainée) et améliore la planéité de la nappe flottante, ce qui accroit avantageusement la capacité de conservation à l'horizontale d'une surface de support d'antenne configurée tel que décrit ci-avant.Advantageously, and for the purpose of facilitating the sliding of the FAD1 assembly on the SFC2 surface, the HK fastening system is positioned on the longitudinal axis of the assembly, and thus avoids the appearance of a skidding movement of the together on the SFC2 surface. This brings in particular a better flatness of the sheet having a support surface SFC1 on a surface of evolution SFC2, which makes it possible to reduce the mechanical stresses (such as the drag) and improves the flatness of the floating sheet, which advantageously increases the horizontal conservation capacity of an antenna support surface configured as described above.

Selon le mode de réalisation préféré, les éléments FADn positionnés « à l'arrière » de la nappe par rapport à son sens de déplacement, lorsque celle-ci est tractée par l'intermédiaire du système d'accrochage HK, comprennent un ensemble de traines Tn configurées pour stabiliser le bord arrière de l'ensemble sur la surface d'évolution SFC2.According to the preferred embodiment, the FADn elements positioned "at the rear" of the ply with respect to its direction of movement, when the latter is towed by means of the attachment system HK, comprise a set of drags Tn configured to stabilize the rear edge of the assembly on the SFC2 tumbling surface.

La figure 2 représente deux éléments flottants FD1 et FD2, voisins et fixés l'un à l'autre parmi l'assemblage de la figure 1, selon un mode particulier et non limitatif de l'invention. Le système de fixation MS1 permet d'attacher des éléments voisins, tels que FD1 et FD2 par laçage et avec un lien filaire W1 qui traverse de façon alternée (méthode de laçage) des oeillets CH disposés en bordure de l'enveloppe COAT des éléments flottants FD1 et FD2. Ce mode de fixation assure plus généralement un lien efficace et souple entre les éléments flottants FDn. En effet, l'élément assurant la flottaison, du fait de sa faible densité (contenant de l'air ou du polystyrène par exemple est maintenu dans une enveloppe formée COAT, éventuellement étanche, et dont les bords sont de moindre épaisseur que le corps, de sorte à pouvoir porter des oeillets ou des perforations adaptées au passage du lien filaire W1. Le lien filaire W1 peut être une cordelette en matière synthétique ou naturelle, un câble d'acier, ou tout autre type de lien qui s'y apparente.There figure 2 represents two floating elements FD1 and FD2, neighboring and fixed to each other among the assembly of the figure 1 , according to a particular and non-limiting mode of the invention. The MS1 fastening system makes it possible to attach neighboring elements, such as FD1 and FD2 by lacing and with a wired tie W1 which alternately crosses (lacing method) CH eyelets arranged at the edge of the COAT envelope of the floating elements FD1 and FD2. This method of attachment more generally ensures an effective and flexible link between the floating elements FDn. Indeed, the element providing flotation, due to its low density (containing air or polystyrene for example, is maintained in a formed COAT envelope, possibly waterproof, and whose edges are thinner than the body, so as to be able to carry eyelets or perforations adapted to the passage of the wired link W1. The wired link W1 can be a cord made of synthetic or natural material, a steel cable, or any other type of link which is similar.

La figure 3 représente le support de fixation d'antenne FIXSYS du dispositif FAD1 de la figure 1, fixé sur plusieurs éléments flottants tels que ceux représentés figure 2 et selon un mode de réalisation particulier et non limitatif de l'invention. Les éléments flottants FD1, FD2, ainsi que deux autres éléments flottants voisins non visibles sur la figure portent une structure sur 4 pieds, dont F01 et F03 (mais aussi F02 et F04 non représentés sur cette figure puisque non sensément visibles selon cette vue). Les pieds supportent une couronne circulaire PATSUP portant une sphère PAT solidaire d'une colonne portant à son extrémité une masse WGHT. La sphère PAT étant maintenue en place mais mobile sur la couronne PATSUP, le poids WGHT assure un positionnement horizontal ou sensiblement horizontal d'une surface SFC3 aménagée en partie supérieure de la sphère « incomplète » PAT. Ainsi, et lorsque l'ensemble FIXSYS est incliné par rapport à un axe « de repos » vertical, le poids WGHT dirigé vers le bas ajuste la position de l'ensemble PAT + WGHT + SFC3 par pivot de la partie sphérique PAT dans son support PATSUP, de sorte que la surface SFC3 configurée pour porter une antenne puisse maintenir une orientation de tout ou partie d'une antenne ANT vers le ciel, et donc vers un dispositif distant de transmission de données (en émission et/ou réception). Astucieusement, une colonne de support de la masse WGHT, solidaire de la sphère PAT, porte un élément de fixation de plusieurs liens « élastiques » (à effet « ressort »). Chacun de ces liens E01, E02, E03 et E04 (seuls E01 et E03 sont représentés sur cette vue) est respectivement attaché à un point de fixation HK01, HK02, HK03 et HK04 permettant ainsi un amortissement des mouvements en même temps qu'un rappel en position neutre lorsque l'ensemble FIXSYS n'est pas incliné par rapport à un axe vertical. Un lien ANTCON permet la connexion de l'antenne ANT positionnée sur la surface horizontale SFC3 du système FIXSYS à un dispositif distant d'émission réception utile au traitement des données de géolocalisation émises ou reçues vers et depuis un dispositif de transmission de données distant (un satellite, un avion, une antenne distante, etc.).There picture 3 represents the FIXSYS antenna mounting bracket of the FAD1 device of the figure 1 , fixed on several floating elements such as those represented figure 2 and according to a particular and non-limiting embodiment of the invention. The floating elements FD1, FD2, as well as two others neighboring floating elements not visible in the figure carry a structure on 4 feet, including F01 and F03 (but also F02 and F04 not shown in this figure since not sensibly visible according to this view). The feet support a circular crown PATSUP carrying a sphere PAT integral with a column carrying at its end a mass WGHT. The sphere PAT being held in place but mobile on the crown PATSUP, the weight WGHT ensures a horizontal or substantially horizontal positioning of a surface SFC3 arranged in the upper part of the “incomplete” sphere PAT. Thus, and when the FIXSYS assembly is inclined with respect to a vertical "rest" axis, the weight WGHT directed downwards adjusts the position of the PAT + WGHT + SFC3 assembly by pivoting the spherical part PAT in its support PATSUP, so that the surface SFC3 configured to carry an antenna can maintain an orientation of all or part of an ANT antenna towards the sky, and therefore towards a remote data transmission device (in transmission and/or reception). Cleverly, a support column of the mass WGHT, integral with the sphere PAT, carries a fixing element of several "elastic" links (with "spring" effect). Each of these links E01, E02, E03 and E04 (only E01 and E03 are represented on this view) is respectively attached to a fixing point HK01, HK02, HK03 and HK04 thus allowing a damping of movements at the same time as a return in neutral position when the FIXSYS assembly is not tilted in relation to a vertical axis. An ANTCON link allows the connection of the ANT antenna positioned on the horizontal surface SFC3 of the FIXSYS system to a remote transmission/reception device useful for processing geolocation data transmitted or received to and from a remote data transmission device (a satellite, airplane, remote antenna, etc.).

Astucieusement, le couplage du dispositif FIXSYS sur la nappe d'éléments flottants permet de garantir, sinon une continuité des transmissions de données entre un équipement local connecté à l'antenne ANT et un équipement distant, au moins une meilleure intégrité et fiabilité des communications. Avantageusement, cela permet d'effectuer des mesures en faisant évoluer l'antenne ANT sur une surface SFC2 dite d'évolution, puisque la nappe formée des éléments flottants FDn comprend une surface d'appui SFC1 (surface inférieure) déformable et susceptible d'épouser au mieux les reliefs de la surface d'évolution SFC2. Avantageusement la surface SFC2 est la surface d'une mer, d'un lac, d'un océan ou encore d'une rivière ou une fleuve et la traction par un bateau de l'ensemble FAD1 permet de réaliser des mesures de hauteur d'eau et d'altitude de la surface SFC2 par rapport à un référentiel prédéfini tel que, par exemple, l'orbite d'un (ou plusieurs) satellite(s) ou un ensemble de points topographiques dont le positionnement est connu est qui constituent seuls ou ensemble un référentiel de mesure.Cleverly, the coupling of the FIXSYS device on the sheet of floating elements makes it possible to guarantee, if not continuity of data transmissions between local equipment connected to the ANT antenna and remote equipment, at least better integrity and reliability of communications. Advantageously, this makes it possible to carry out measurements by moving the antenna ANT on an SFC2 surface called evolution, since the ply formed by the floating elements FDn comprises a support surface SFC1 (lower surface) that is deformable and capable of conforming as well as possible to the reliefs of the evolution surface SFC2. Advantageously, the surface SFC2 is the surface of a sea, a lake, an ocean or even a river or a river and the traction by a boat of the assembly FAD1 makes it possible to carry out height measurements of water and altitude of the SFC2 surface with respect to a predefined reference frame such as, for example, the orbit of one (or more) satellite(s) or a set of topographic points whose position is known and which alone constitute or together a measurement reference.

La figure 4 représente le support FIXSYS fixé aux éléments flottants, déjà représentés figure 3, mais lorsque la surface sur laquelle évolue le dispositif FAD1 est accidentée (en présence de reliefs plus conséquent), selon un mode de réalisation particulier et non limitatif de l'invention. Le système FIXSYS est incliné dans son ensemble par rapport à un axe vertical, et ce du fait du relief de la surface SFC2 qui comprend une pluralité d'éléments flottants FD1 à FDn. Lorsque la surface SFC2 comprend des reliefs sensibles, les éléments flottants sont disposés chacun de sorte à épouser au mieux cette surface en créant une surface inférieure SFC1 de la nappe qu'ils constituent ensemble sensiblement « parallèle » à SFC2. L'association de la nappe d'éléments flottants FDn et du système de fixation FIXSYS permet astucieusement de maintenir la surface support d'antenne SFC3 quasi horizontale, au moins lorsque chacun des couples de points appartenant respectivement à SFC1 et SFC2 et faisant partie d'une même verticale, ne sont distants de plus d'une longueur prédéterminée. Cette longueur prédéterminée peut être de quelques dizaines de centimètres, à plusieurs mètres, en fonction notamment de la surface total de la nappe constituée des éléments flottants, mais aussi de sa forme (plutôt longitudinale, plutôt rectangulaire, carrée, circulaire, ovale). En effet, si la surface SFC2 est grandement accidentée, par exemple dans le cas d'une très forte houle de mer non propice aux mesures précitées, la nappe peut afficher un profil comprenant des « cassures » en terme de linéarité ou de courbure et entraîner ainsi une forte inclinaison du système de fixation FIXSYS, ce qui entraîne malgré tout des conditions de positionnement préjudiciables à des transmissions entre une antenne positionnée sur la surface SFC3 et un dispositif distant.There figure 4 represents the FIXSYS support fixed to the floating elements, already represented picture 3 , but when the surface on which the FAD1 device moves is uneven (in the presence of greater relief), according to a particular and non-limiting embodiment of the invention. The FIXSYS system is inclined as a whole with respect to a vertical axis, and this due to the relief of the surface SFC2 which comprises a plurality of floating elements FD1 to FDn. When the surface SFC2 comprises sensitive reliefs, the floating elements are each arranged so as to fit this surface as closely as possible by creating a lower surface SFC1 of the layer which they together constitute substantially “parallel” to SFC2. The association of the sheet of floating elements FDn and the fixing system FIXSYS cleverly makes it possible to maintain the support surface of the SFC3 antenna almost horizontal, at least when each of the pairs of points belonging respectively to SFC1 and SFC2 and forming part of the same vertical, are not separated by more than a predetermined length. This predetermined length can be from a few tens of centimeters to several meters, depending in particular on the total surface of the web made up of the floating elements, but also on its shape (rather longitudinal, rather rectangular, square, circular, oval). In fact, if the SFC2 surface is very uneven, for example in the case of a very strong sea swell that is not conducive to the aforementioned measures, the slick may display a profile comprising "breaks" in terms of linearity or curvature and thus lead to a strong inclination of the FIXSYS fixing system, which nevertheless leads to positioning conditions that are detrimental to transmissions between an antenna positioned on the SFC3 surface and a remote device.

Cependant, la grande taille de la nappe comprenant les éléments FDn et la nature des liens MS1 qui relient les éléments flottants, permet d'intégrer les déformations de la surface SFC2 et de moyenner les reliefs de sorte à définir un relief « moyen » propice à la métrologie recherchée (altitude moyenne de la surface d'une mer par exemple, ou altitude de la surface moyenne) jusqu'à un certain niveau de relief qui correspond à la longueur prédéterminée en tous points d'une même verticale, entre la surface d'appui SFC1 et la surface d'évolution SFC2. Cela revient à dire qu'en fonction de la taille de la nappe flottant réalisée, il existe une limite à la capacité à s'affranchir des reliefs de la surface d'évolution et à garantir une parfaite intégrité des transmissions de données utiles à la métrologie.However, the large size of the layer comprising the FDn elements and the nature of the MS1 links which connect the floating elements, makes it possible to integrate the deformations of the SFC2 surface and to average the reliefs so as to define an "average" relief conducive to the metrology sought (average altitude of the surface of a sea for example, or altitude of the average surface) up to a certain level of relief which corresponds to the predetermined length at all points of the same vertical, between the surface of SFC1 support and the SFC2 tumbling surface. This amounts to saying that depending on the size of the floating layer produced, there is a limit to the ability to overcome the reliefs of the running surface and to guarantee perfect integrity of the transmissions of data useful for metrology. .

L'invention toutefois une amélioration conséquente des capacités de mesures à la surface d'un océan, par exemple.However, the invention provides a substantial improvement in the measurement capabilities on the surface of an ocean, for example.

Selon une variante du mode de réalisation de l'invention, la forme globale des éléments flottants et sphérique, carrée, ovale et les liens fixant des éléments voisins entre eux sont filaires ou mécaniques. Quelle qu'en soit la forme, le but demeure qu'un ensemble de grande dimension comprenant une pluralité d'éléments flottants FDn présente une surface d'appui SFC1 qui épouse le plus possible une surface SFC2 dite surface d'évolution, pour que, du fait de l'utilisation conjointe de la nappe ainsi formée et du système de fixation FIXSYS, la surface SFC3 reste le plus souvent possible dans une position horizontale ou quasi-horizontale.According to a variant of the embodiment of the invention, the overall shape of the floating and spherical, square, oval elements and the links fixing neighboring elements together are wired or mechanical. Whatever its shape, the goal remains that a large-scale assembly comprising a plurality of floating elements FDn has a support surface SFC1 which matches as much as possible a surface SFC2 called the surface of evolution, so that, due to the combined use of the ply thus formed and the FIXSYS fixing system, the SFC3 surface remains as often as possible in a horizontal or quasi-horizontal position.

On entend par position quasi-horizontale un angle entre la surface SFC3 et l'horizon qui reste dans une plage de valeurs inférieure à 30 degrés, par exemple.By quasi-horizontal position is meant an angle between the surface SFC3 and the horizon which remains within a range of values less than 30 degrees, for example.

Cette plage de valeurs peut toutefois être reconsidérée en fonction de l'angle d'ouverture de l'antenne en émission et en réception.This range of values can however be reconsidered as a function of the aperture angle of the antenna in transmission and in reception.

Avantageusement, l'élément sphérique PAT peut être remplacé par un système mécanique à cardans permettant le basculement d'une pièce mécanique portant la surface support d'antenne SFC3 selon deux axes perpendiculaires.Advantageously, the spherical element PAT can be replaced by a mechanical universal joint system allowing the tilting of a mechanical part carrying the antenna support surface SFC3 along two perpendicular axes.

En d'autres termes, le dispositif support flottant FAD1, utile à la réalisation de relevés de hauteur d'eau et de topologie des surfaces de mers, lac, océans, et cours d'eau, par exemple, comprend la pluralité d'éléments flottants FD1, FD2, FD3, FDn, tous insubmersibles et assemblés de sorte à former ensemble une première surface SFC1, dite surface d'appui, adaptée à flotter sur une seconde surface SFC2 et/ou disposée sensiblement parallèlement à cette seconde surface.In other words, the floating support device FAD1, useful for carrying out water height and surface topology readings of seas, lakes, oceans, and waterways, for example, comprises the plurality of elements floats FD1, FD2, FD3, FDn, all unsinkable and assembled so as to together form a first surface SFC1, called support surface, adapted to float on a second surface SFC2 and/or arranged substantially parallel to this second surface.

Les éléments flottants FD1, FD2, FD3, FDn sont reliés entre eux par au moins un de leurs bords respectifs au moyen du système de fixation MS1 comprenant les oeillets CH et le lien filaire W1.The floating elements FD1, FD2, FD3, FDn are interconnected by at least one of their respective edges by means of the fixing system MS1 comprising the eyelets CH and the wired link W1.

Le dispositif « nappe » support flottant FAD1 comprend l'élément d'ancrage HK disposé sur son axe longitudinal et adapté à une fixation d'un dispositif d'accrochage, par exemple pour permettre à un bateau de le tracter à la surface de l'eau.The FAD1 floating support "ply" device comprises the anchoring element HK arranged on its longitudinal axis and suitable for attaching an attachment device, for example to allow a boat to tow it on the surface of the water.

En outre, le dispositif support flottant FAD1 comprend le support de fixation FIXSYS fixé sur au moins un ou quelque uns des éléments flottants FD1, FD2, FD3, FDn, idéalement dans la partie centrale de la nappe. Le dispositif support FIXSYS comprend une surface FS3 prévue pour supporter une antenne de transmission de signaux radiofréquence et un élément mécanique articulé, constitué principalement des éléments PATSUP, PAT et WGHT, adaptés à un positionnement sensiblement horizontal de la surface support d'antenne SFC3 lorsque la nappe évolue sensiblement parallèlement à la surface de l'eau SFC2, c'est-à-dire lorsque une distance LG de couples de points en regard verticalement l'un de l'autre et appartenant respectivement à la surface d'appui SFC1 de la nappe FAD1 et à la surface de l'eau (la seconde surface FS2) n'excède pas une longueur prédéterminée. Soit, en d'autres termes, lorsque la nappe FAD1 support d'antenne mobile « épouse » (ou flotte sur) la surface de l'eau SFC2.In addition, the floating support device FAD1 comprises the fixing support FIXSYS fixed to at least one or some of the floating elements FD1, FD2, FD3, FDn, ideally in the central part of the sheet. The FIXSYS support device comprises a surface FS3 designed to support a radiofrequency signal transmission antenna and an articulated mechanical element, consisting mainly of the elements PATSUP, PAT and WGHT, adapted to a substantially horizontal positioning of the antenna support surface SFC3 when the the water table evolves substantially parallel to the water surface SFC2, i.e. when a distance LG of pairs of points facing each other vertically and belonging respectively to the support surface SFC1 of the layer FAD1 and to the surface of the water (the second surface FS2) does not exceed one predetermined length. Or, in other words, when the mobile antenna support sheet FAD1 “marries” (or floats on) the surface of the water SFC2.

La nappe support FAD1 est constituée des éléments flottants FD1, FD2, FD3, FDn qui sont réalisés à partir d'un matériau flottant et insubmersible FM entouré chacun de l'enveloppe COAT dont les bords sont assemblés à des bords d'éléments flottants voisins dans la nappe FAD1 au moyen d'au moins de l'élément filaire W1.The FAD1 support ply consists of floating elements FD1, FD2, FD3, FDn which are made from a floating and unsinkable material FM each surrounded by the COAT envelope, the edges of which are assembled to the edges of neighboring floating elements in the sheet FAD1 by means of at least the wire element W1.

Avantageusement l'élément mécanique PATSUP comprend la rotule (partiellement) sphérique PAT ou un équivalent sous forme de cardan, solidaire du plateau support d'antenne le couplant mécaniquement à la surface SFC3 qui offre un support de montage de l'antenne mobile ANT.Advantageously, the mechanical element PATSUP comprises the (partially) spherical ball joint PAT or an equivalent in the form of a gimbal, integral with the antenna support plate coupling it mechanically to the surface SFC3 which offers a mounting support for the mobile antenna ANT.

Bien évidemment, l'invention ne se limite pas au seul mode de réalisation décrit, assorti des variantes précitées, mais concerne plus généralement tout dispositif support d'antenne flottant comprenant un élément d'ancrage pour être tracté et comprenant en outre un support/système de fixation fixé sur au moins un élément flottant parmi une pluralité d'éléments flottants constituant ensemble une nappe et comprenant une surface support d'antenne et un élément mécanique adapté à un positionnement sensiblement horizontal de la surface support d'antenne lorsque la distance séparant des couples de points, en regard verticalement l'un de l'autre, et appartenant respectivement à la surface d'appui de la nappe constituée d'éléments flottants et à la surface d'évolution, n'excède pas une longueur prédéterminée.Obviously, the invention is not limited to the single embodiment described, together with the aforementioned variants, but relates more generally to any floating antenna support device comprising an anchoring element to be towed and further comprising a support/system fixing fixed to at least one floating element among a plurality of floating elements together constituting a layer and comprising an antenna support surface and a mechanical element adapted to a substantially horizontal positioning of the antenna support surface when the distance separating pairs of points, facing each other vertically, and belonging respectively to the bearing surface of the sheet made up of floating elements and to the surface of movement, do not exceed a predetermined length.

Claims (4)

  1. A floating support device (FAD1) comprising a plurality of floating elements (FD1, FD2, FD3, FDn) assembled so as to together form a floating layer comprising a first surface (SFC1) suitable for floating on a second surface (SFC2) and/or arranged substantially parallel to said second surface (SFC2), said device being characterized in that:
    - said floating elements (FD1, FD2, FD3, FDn) are connected to one another by at least one of their respective edges by means of a first attachment system (MS1),
    - said floating support device (FAD1) comprises an anchoring element (HK) arranged on a longitudinal axis of said floating device (FAD1) and suitable for attaching a fastening device,
    - said floating device (FAD1) further comprises an attachment support (FIXSYS) attached to at least one of said floating elements (FD1, FD2, FD3, FDn) and comprising a third antenna or sensor support surface (SFC3) and an articulated mechanical support element (PATSUP, PAT, WGHT), the floating layer being configured to deform and to match the average relief of the second surface (SFC2), so as to guarantee improved positioning of an antenna or a sensor attached to this support surface (SFC3) when the distance (LG) of pairs of points facing one another vertically and belonging to said first surface (SFC1) and to said second surface (SFC2), respectively, does not exceed a predetermined length.
  2. The device (FAD1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that at least part of said floating elements (FD1, FD2, FD3, FDn) comprises a floating material (FM) surrounded by a housing whose edges are assembled (COAT) with edges of floating elements (FD1, FD2, FD3, FDn) that are adjacent in said plurality of floating elements by means of at least one wire-like element (W1).
  3. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that said mechanical element (PATSUP) comprises a ball joint and/or a universal joint (PAT) secured to an element mechanically coupling it to said third surface (SFC3).
  4. The device according to any one of the preceding claims,
    characterized in that its length exceeds 10 meters and its width exceeds 3 meters.
EP16762830.4A 2015-07-23 2016-07-21 Mobile antennas support device Active EP3326236B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR1501580A FR3039324B1 (en) 2015-07-23 2015-07-23 MOBILE ANTENNA SUPPORT DEVICE
PCT/FR2016/051889 WO2017013367A1 (en) 2015-07-23 2016-07-21 Mobile antennas support device

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3326236A1 EP3326236A1 (en) 2018-05-30
EP3326236B1 true EP3326236B1 (en) 2023-05-24

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP16762830.4A Active EP3326236B1 (en) 2015-07-23 2016-07-21 Mobile antennas support device

Country Status (3)

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EP (1) EP3326236B1 (en)
FR (1) FR3039324B1 (en)
WO (1) WO2017013367A1 (en)

Family Cites Families (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JPS60150301A (en) * 1984-01-17 1985-08-08 Furuno Electric Co Ltd Device for keeping directivity of directional body
US8299936B2 (en) * 2008-12-18 2012-10-30 Bae Systems Information And Electronic Systems Integration Inc. Method and apparatus for establishing low frequency/ultra low frequency and very low frequency communications
US9599441B2 (en) * 2012-09-07 2017-03-21 The United States Of America As Represented By The Secretary Of The Navy Off-board influence system

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP3326236A1 (en) 2018-05-30
FR3039324B1 (en) 2019-03-15
FR3039324A1 (en) 2017-01-27
WO2017013367A1 (en) 2017-01-26

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