EP1756489B1 - Method of maintaining the quality of the snow cover at an indoor winter sports facility, and facility for implementing one such method - Google Patents

Method of maintaining the quality of the snow cover at an indoor winter sports facility, and facility for implementing one such method Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1756489B1
EP1756489B1 EP05746732A EP05746732A EP1756489B1 EP 1756489 B1 EP1756489 B1 EP 1756489B1 EP 05746732 A EP05746732 A EP 05746732A EP 05746732 A EP05746732 A EP 05746732A EP 1756489 B1 EP1756489 B1 EP 1756489B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
temperature
snow
hall
time
ambient air
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EP05746732A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1756489A1 (en
Inventor
Paul De Larminat
Michel Galvin
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Johnson Controls Neige Sas
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Johnson Controls Neige Sas
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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63C—SKATES; SKIS; ROLLER SKATES; DESIGN OR LAYOUT OF COURTS, RINKS OR THE LIKE
    • A63C19/00—Design or layout of playing courts, rinks, bowling greens or areas for water-skiing; Covers therefor
    • A63C19/10—Ice-skating or roller-skating rinks; Slopes or trails for skiing, ski-jumping or tobogganing
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25C—PRODUCING, WORKING OR HANDLING ICE
    • F25C3/00—Processes or apparatus specially adapted for producing ice or snow for winter sports or similar recreational purposes, e.g. for sporting installations; Producing artificial snow
    • F25C3/04—Processes or apparatus specially adapted for producing ice or snow for winter sports or similar recreational purposes, e.g. for sporting installations; Producing artificial snow for sledging or ski trails; Producing artificial snow
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25D—REFRIGERATORS; COLD ROOMS; ICE-BOXES; COOLING OR FREEZING APPARATUS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F25D17/00—Arrangements for circulating cooling fluids; Arrangements for circulating gas, e.g. air, within refrigerated spaces
    • F25D17/02—Arrangements for circulating cooling fluids; Arrangements for circulating gas, e.g. air, within refrigerated spaces for circulating liquids, e.g. brine
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25B—REFRIGERATION MACHINES, PLANTS OR SYSTEMS; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS
    • F25B2600/00—Control issues
    • F25B2600/11—Fan speed control
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25C—PRODUCING, WORKING OR HANDLING ICE
    • F25C2303/00—Special arrangements or features for producing ice or snow for winter sports or similar recreational purposes, e.g. for sporting installations; Special arrangements or features for producing artificial snow
    • F25C2303/048—Snow making by using means for spraying water
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25C—PRODUCING, WORKING OR HANDLING ICE
    • F25C2400/00—Auxiliary features or devices for producing, working or handling ice
    • F25C2400/02—Freezing surface state
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25C—PRODUCING, WORKING OR HANDLING ICE
    • F25C2400/00—Auxiliary features or devices for producing, working or handling ice
    • F25C2400/12—Means for sanitation
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25C—PRODUCING, WORKING OR HANDLING ICE
    • F25C2500/00—Problems to be solved
    • F25C2500/02—Geometry problems
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25C—PRODUCING, WORKING OR HANDLING ICE
    • F25C2600/00—Control issues
    • F25C2600/02—Timing
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25C—PRODUCING, WORKING OR HANDLING ICE
    • F25C2600/00—Control issues
    • F25C2600/04—Control means

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to the general field of facilities covered for the practice of sliding sports such as skiing, sledding, snowboarding or other, having the ability to operate all year round, including in hot climate areas . It concerns in particular the technologies relating to installations whose track is covered with a snowpack, that is to say a product more or less close to natural snow (frozen water particles according to various textures and grain sizes. ), with the exception of more or less slippery synthetic products that can be used at room temperature.
  • the surface layer of the snowpack in the form of relatively coarse and rounded grains, is easily swept by the passage of skiers down and / or towards the sides of the track, leaving the undercoat almost bare. ice.
  • the covered installation must be equipped with snow production means and air cooling means that have sufficient capacity to ensure this renewal.
  • the installation must also be adapted to eliminate at regular intervals a portion of the snow produced, in particular to prevent excessive accumulation in the hall.
  • the corresponding facilities are equipped with a track associated with heating means, for example by hot air or hot water circulating on the track, under the snowpack.
  • the tracks in question also include drainage means and possibly meltwater recovery, which can be recycled for the production of snow replacement. This solution allows permanent removal of the underlayer of ice, and its replacement by fresh snow surface, and this without the use of snow handling means to eliminate.
  • the present invention aims to remedy these drawbacks by proposing a new method ensuring the maintenance, over time, the quality of the snowpack installation.
  • the method in question has the advantage of being particularly effective for the renewal of the snow layer, this with a simple installation structure and without causing a significant increase in energy consumption.
  • the period of the temperature cycles is 24 hours or close to 24 hours.
  • the present invention also relates to the covered installation for the practice of sliding sports, adapted for the implementation of the method presented above.
  • the installation also includes means for draining snowmelt from the snowpack.
  • the temperature control means further comprise a plurality of heating devices involved in maintaining the ambient air temperature of the hall.
  • the cooling devices and if necessary the heating devices, are evenly distributed over the entire length of the track, and they are each associated with at least one air temperature sensor. the zone of action of the cooling device, to ensure optimum control of the air temperature over the entire length of the track and to avoid the formation of a temperature gradient along its length.
  • the track on which the snowpack is manufactured is advantageously constituted by an impermeable underlayer associated with one or more water-permeable surface material (s).
  • the meltwater can thus circulate through the permeable layer (s) and run off to the impervious coating before joining collector means connected to one or more tanks.
  • This or these tanks may be equipped with means for recycling meltwater for the manufacture of snow.
  • the track is still advantageously equipped with cooling means arranged near the surface of the track, for regulating the temperature of the lower layer of the snowpack.
  • These cooling means of the surface of the track consist for example of a network of tubes in which circulates a refrigerant fluid.
  • means for measuring the temperature of the snow are arranged in the vicinity of the surface of the track; these measuring means provide control of the aforementioned cooling means to prevent permanent freezing of the lower layer of the snowpack near said surface of the track.
  • the installation for skiing or any other gliding sport includes: - a covered hall 1 thermally insulated, covering a track 2 whose surface is covered by a snowpack 3, - 4 means of snow production and means for regulating the temperature of the ambient air of the hall.
  • the maintenance of the quality of the snowpack 3 is ensured by the application of temperature cycles determined in the ambient air of the hall.
  • the corresponding temperature cycles are obtained by suitable control of the control means 5 constituted here by a plurality of air-cooling devices 6 controlled by appropriate management means 7, for example of the programmable logic controller type (with the associated regulators).
  • the first temperature T1 is generally maintained during the daytime hours of public opening of the installation, that is to say for example for 12 to 18 hours depending on the case.
  • the thermal comfort for the users is thus significantly improved, particularly compared to the known installations to date whose ambient temperature is constantly negative.
  • a snowpack of the order of 70 cm thick undergoes on average a slight melting of the order of a few millimeters (usually 2 to 5 mm).
  • the negative T2 temperature is maintained for a period of, for example, between 6 and 12 hours (to obtain a 24-hour temperature cycle), and this is preferably during the nocturnal hours of closure to the public of the installation.
  • This period of negative temperature T2 is used to implement the means for producing snow 4, in order to manufacture snow intended to renew the amount melted during the day, in this case during the time t1 mentioned above; this period is also used to ensure the maintenance of the track, including by grooming.
  • the corresponding snow production means may be snow guns of the type conventionally used outdoors for the manufacture of snow culture; they may consist of high or low pressure guns operating by mixing air and pressurized water, regularly distributed along the length of the track.
  • the cooling energy spent during the time t2 at negative temperature for making the snow is thus stored in the snowpack, and it is returned to the ambient air, during the time t1 at positive temperature, to contribute maintaining the hall at a slightly positive temperature.
  • the air-cooling devices 6 are suitably distributed along the length of the track 2, each ensuring the maintenance of the temperature of a determined volume of air in the hall.
  • the distribution of these air-cooling devices 6 is intended in particular to avoid the formation of a temperature gradient along the length of the track, especially when the temperature of the hall is slightly positive.
  • the air-cooling devices 6 are arranged near the ceiling of the hall and they are distributed along the length of at least one side of the track, with a spacing of preferably between 10 and 40 m, so that each these devices project its air flow transversely to the slope of the track; air-cooling devices 6 may also be arranged at each end of the track 2, so that their air flow is oriented longitudinally.
  • the temperature control means 5 comprise a plurality of air-cooling devices 6 connected in parallel on a refrigerant circuit 10 supplied with cooling liquid by a refrigeration plant 11 associated with a main circulation pump 12.
  • the aerofreigerior devices 6 in question are of conventional design and well known to those skilled in the art. They are each equipped with a battery 13 supplied with refrigerant fluid, and a member 14 for producing an air flow, of the fan type. A sensor (or probe) 15 of the ambient air of the hall is connected to the actuator of the production member of the air flow 14 via a speed variator 16.
  • the temperature sensors 15 will appropriately drive the associated airflow generating members 14, 16, which to suitably control the cooling energy emitted into the ambient air of the hall.
  • the temperature sensors 15 reduce the operation of the motorization of the airflow generating members 14, 16, to limit the emission of cooling energy by the corresponding air-cooling devices 6; and on the other hand, when the hall temperature exceeds this set point, the temperature sensors 15 increase the operation of the air flow producing members 14, 16 to ensure the emission of cooling energy into the hall.
  • the temperature sensors 15 of each air-refrigerating device 6 are arranged in the hall to best maintain the temperature defined by the management means.
  • these temperature sensors may be arranged at the air inlet of the air-refrigerating device 6; they can also be arranged near the upper surface of the snowpack 3, for example vertically associated aerofrigerifer device 6.
  • the figure 3 represents an alternative embodiment of the means 5 for regulating the ambient air temperature of the hall.
  • the air-cooling devices 6 connected to a refrigerant circuit 10 supplied with refrigerant liquid by a refrigeration unit 11 associated with a main circulation pump 12.
  • the regulation means 5 are different from those described above in connection with the figure 2 , due to the connection of each air-refrigeration device 6 with the refrigerant circuit 10 via an intermediate circuit 17 on which are placed a three-way valve 18 and a local pump 19.
  • the intermediate circuits 17 in question comprise two pipes, one entering and the other leaving 21.
  • the three-way valve 18 is placed on the incoming pipe 20 and is connected to the outgoing pipe 21 by a bypass pipe 22.
  • the local pump 19 is also placed on the incoming pipe 20, between the three-way valve 18 and the air-refrigerating device 6.
  • the temperature sensor 15 controls the three-way valve 18 to regulate the level of cooling energy released by the device aerofrigerifer 6 associated.
  • the three-way valve 18 can be controlled between two positions as a function of the ambient air temperature measured by the associated sensor 15.
  • the valve 18 is controlled so as to allow a flow of refrigerant in the incoming pipe 20 to the associated air-refrigerating device 6, to ensure the emission of cooling energy in the hall; on the other hand, when the temperature becomes lower than that indicated by the management means, the valve 18 is controlled in a configuration ensuring the recycling of the refrigerant coming from the outgoing pipe 21, by means of the bypass pipe 22, and also the secondary pump 19 forcing the recirculation of the refrigerant in the corresponding air-refrigerating device.
  • ambient air heating devices can be properly distributed in the hall, to further facilitate the maintenance of the ambient air of the hall at a suitable temperature.
  • These heaters are particularly useful for maintaining the ambient air of the hall at slightly positive temperature T1 , when the installation operates with outside air at negative temperature.
  • heat exchanger batteries or electrical resistances can equip the air-cooling devices of the hall; these heating means may also be separate air-cooling devices, and properly distributed in the hall.
  • the surface of the runway 2 is equipped with structural means 25 for draining the meltwater from the superficial layer of the snowpack.
  • the corresponding drainage means 25 consist of a structure in the form of a mattress, able to support the weight of the snowpack and the weight of the skiers present on the track.
  • the drainage structure 25 here comprises a draining core material 26 (for example polyethylene threads or other entangled resistant wire materials), associated with a permeable film 27 on its upper face facing the snowpack 3, and a film watertight 28 on its lower face next to the track 2. It is still observed on this figure 4 the presence of a structure ensuring the attachment of the snowpack 3, reported on the drainage structure 25; this hooking structure 29, also called “hooking mat", is permeable to water.
  • the water coming from the melting of the superficial layer of the snowpack migrates by gravity to the sealed film 28. Then, the water flows down the track 2 where it is recovered, by collectors 30, in a storage tank 31 installed in the basement ( figure 1 ). To optimize the efficiency of the installation, the storage tank 31 is advantageously equipped with a water purification system, for the purpose of recycling water harvested by the snow production means 4.
  • the track 2 may be coated with a simple material permeable to water, to ensure the drainage and flow of melt water towards the basement.
  • the water can also be recovered in a storage tank by appropriate collectors.
  • the collected water can be used by the means of snow production for the renewal of the snowpack of the track.
  • the installation is advantageously equipped with means for regulating the temperature of the lower layer of the snowpack.
  • the role of these temperature control means is to prevent the formation of a compact ice layer, and to promote the formation of the bridges of freezing necessary for a good mechanical resistance of the snowpack.
  • These means for regulating the temperature of the lower sub-layer of the snowpack here consist of cooling means comprising a cooling unit (not shown) ensuring the circulation of a refrigerant in a network of cooling tubes suitably distributed over the entire surface of track 2.
  • These cooling tubes marked 32 on the figure 4 , rest on the hooking structure 29; they are preferably distributed in the direction of the slope with a transverse spacing which may be about 30 cm; the diameter of the tubes used may be of the order of 10 mm.
  • the cooling means in question are also controlled by the plant management system to cause temperature variations in the lower layer of the snowpack, between - a first cooling temperature below 0 ° C, maintained for a time on the order of a few hours per 24 hours, and a melting temperature of the lower layer of the snowpack, equal or substantially equal to 0 ° C, maintained for the rest of the time.
  • the cooling unit is appropriately controlled by properly distributed sensors in the undercoat of the snowpack.
  • the method according to the invention which consists in adjusting the cold production means in the hall in such a way as to alternate daily the temperature between negative (roughly during the night) and slightly positive (roughly during the day) values, presents all first, an energy advantage, since the melting energy of the snow is fully recovered.
  • the power of the cooling means can be stopped or greatly reduced.
  • the snowpack is then colder than the ambient air and it helps maintain the ambient air at the desired slightly positive temperature.
  • the cooling energy spent at night to make the snow is then stored in the snowpack; it is returned during the day to the ambient air to contribute to the air conditioning of the installation.
  • this process improves the thermal comfort for the users, because of the colder temperature during the hours of opening to the public.
  • freeze and thaw cycles greatly contribute to improving snowpack quality, both at the surface and at depth.
  • this kind of covered runway can be several hundred meters long and several tens of meters wide, the height of the equipped hall that can go from 7 to 8 m up to 20 m.
  • the means for producing the cold are preferably arranged just below the ceiling of the hall; they may extend on one or both sides of the runway, and even for some to be provided in the center (for example in a longitudinal separation zone of the runway).
  • one or more air handling units may be located in an adjoining room in the main hall, the cold air produced by these plants being conveyed by a network of ducts and being pulsed in the main hall through adapted air vents.

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Abstract

The invention relates to a method of maintaining the quality of the snow cover (3) on the surface of a piste (2) at an indoor facility for skiing or practising other winter sports, whereby the facility comprises: a thermally-insulated hall (1) which covers the piste (2), snow-producing means (4), and means (5) for regulating the temperature of the ambient air inside the hall (1). The inventive method consists in varying the temperature of the ambient air in the hall (1), using the temperature regulation means (5) and regular or substantially-regular cycles, between: a first temperature T1, which is preferably slightly positive, between 1 and 5 °C, such that the surface of the snow cover (3) melts partially, said temperature (T1) being maintained for a time t1 which is less than the time necessary for the snow cover (3) to melt completely; and a second temperature T2, which is preferably negative, between 10 and 2 °C, such that snow is produced by the corresponding production means (4), said temperature (T2) being maintained for a time t2 during which a sufficient quantity of snow is produced in order to replenish the snow that melted during time t1. The length of the temperature cycles is preferably of the order of 24 hours.

Description

La présente invention concerne le domaine général des installations couvertes pour la pratique de sports de glisse tels que le ski, la luge, le surf des neiges ou autre, ayant la capacité de fonctionner toute l'année, y compris dans les zones de climat chaud. Elle concerne en particulier les technologies relatives aux installations dont la piste est recouverte d'un manteau neigeux, c'est-à-dire un produit plus ou moins proche de la neige naturelle (particules d'eau congelée selon des textures et des granulométries diverses), à l'exclusion des produits synthétiques plus ou moins glissants pouvant être employés à température ambiante.The present invention relates to the general field of facilities covered for the practice of sliding sports such as skiing, sledding, snowboarding or other, having the ability to operate all year round, including in hot climate areas . It concerns in particular the technologies relating to installations whose track is covered with a snowpack, that is to say a product more or less close to natural snow (frozen water particles according to various textures and grain sizes. ), with the exception of more or less slippery synthetic products that can be used at room temperature.

Les installations de ski couvertes comprennent, de manière classique, les éléments structurels suivants :

  • une piste, pouvant reposer sur un sol naturel (colline, terril, etc ...), ou être construite en totalité ou en partie sur une structure de poutrelles métalliques ;
  • un manteau neigeux couvrant la piste, constitué d'un produit plus ou moins proche de la neige naturelle ;
  • un hall isolé thermiquement, adapté pour couvrir la piste ;
  • des moyens de refroidissement de l'air ambiant du hall ; et
  • des moyens de production de neige.
L'installation de ski peut être complétée par des utilitaires annexes de type centrale(s) de traitement d'air, remontées mécaniques pour les skieurs, engins de damage, etc...Covered ski facilities typically include the following structural elements:
  • a track, which can rest on a natural ground (hill, heap, etc ...), or be built in whole or in part on a structure of metal beams;
  • a snowpack covering the runway, consisting of a product more or less close to natural snow;
  • a thermally insulated hall, adapted to cover the track;
  • means for cooling the ambient air of the hall; and
  • means of snow production.
The ski installation can be supplemented by auxiliary utilities of the central type (s) of air treatment, lifts for skiers, grooming machines, etc ...

Dans les installations de ski couvertes connues à ce jour, l'expérience montre que la neige est soumise à un processus d'évolution, notamment en fonction de son âge, des conditions ambiantes et des contraintes auxquelles elle est soumise.In the ski-covered facilities known to date, experience shows that snow is subject to a process of evolution, in particular according to its age, the ambient conditions and the constraints to which it is subjected.

En substance, une neige jeune présente normalement de bonnes caractéristiques de cohésion, de glisse et de résistance mécanique. Au fil du temps, la neige vieillit ; ses grains ont tendance à grossir et à s'arrondir à la surface du manteau neigeux, ce qui la conduit à perdre sa cohésion ainsi que ses qualités de glisse et d'accrochage des skis. Ce processus de vieillissement se développe également en profondeur, avec une tendance de la couche de neige à proximité de la piste à se compacter et à évoluer au fil du temps vers une couche de glace plus ou moins compacte.In essence, young snow normally has good cohesion, slip and strength characteristics. Over time, the snow ages; its grains tend to grow and round on the surface of the snowpack, which leads to lose its cohesion as well as its qualities of sliding and hanging skis. This aging process also develops in depth, with a tendency of the layer of snow near the track to compact and evolve over time to a more or less compact layer of ice.

De ce fait, la couche superficielle du manteau neigeux, sous forme de grains relativement gros et arrondis, est facilement balayée par le passage des skieurs, vers le bas et/ou vers les côtés de la piste, laissant presque à nu la sous-couche glacée.As a result, the surface layer of the snowpack, in the form of relatively coarse and rounded grains, is easily swept by the passage of skiers down and / or towards the sides of the track, leaving the undercoat almost bare. ice.

Pour conserver un manteau neigeux de qualité acceptable, il s'avère donc nécessaire de pouvoir assurer le renouvellement quotidien d'une quantité de neige substantielle, estimée en une couche de plusieurs millimètres par jour, en moyenne sur l'ensemble de la surface enneigée. L'installation couverte doit ainsi être équipée de moyens de production de neige et de moyens de refroidissement de l'air qui aient une capacité suffisante pour assurer ce renouvellement. L'installation doit en outre être adaptée pour éliminer à intervalles réguliers une partie de la neige produite, en particulier pour éviter son accumulation excessive dans le hall.To maintain a snowpack of acceptable quality, it is therefore necessary to be able to ensure the daily renewal of a substantial amount of snow, estimated in a layer of several millimeters per day, on average over the entire snow-covered area. The covered installation must be equipped with snow production means and air cooling means that have sufficient capacity to ensure this renewal. The installation must also be adapted to eliminate at regular intervals a portion of the snow produced, in particular to prevent excessive accumulation in the hall.

Les moyens assurant l'élimination de la neige produite sont de manière classique constitués de moyens mécaniques. Cependant, de tels moyens mécaniques ne sont pas sans poser un certain nombre de problèmes :

  • la quantité de neige à éliminer se chiffre par plusieurs dizaines de m3 par jour pour une installation couverte moyenne. Les moyens mécaniques à mettre en oeuvre sont alors complexes et onéreux.
  • il faut ensuite pouvoir détruire cette neige soit en prévoyant les équipements nécessaires pour la faire fondre, soit en disposant au dehors d'aires de stockage adéquates pour la laisser fondre naturellement.
The means ensuring the removal of the snow produced are conventionally constituted by mechanical means. However, such mechanical means are not without posing a number of problems:
  • the amount of snow to be removed is several tens of m 3 per day for an average covered facility. The mechanical means to be implemented are then complex and expensive.
  • it is then necessary to be able to destroy this snow either by foreseeing the equipment necessary to melt it, or by arranging outside adequate storage areas to let it melt naturally.

Afin de remédier à ces difficultés, des installations couvertes ont été développées pour réaliser un renouvellement quasi-automatique du manteau neigeux, comme divulgué par exemple dans les documents JP-6 269 533 , JP-6 240 627 , JP-6 225 959 , DE 102 10991 A1 et US 5230218 .In order to overcome these difficulties, covered installations have been developed to achieve a quasi-automatic renewal of the snowpack, as disclosed for example in the documents JP-6,269,533 , JP-6,240,627 , JP-6,225,959 , DE 102 10991 A1 and US 5230218 .

Les installations correspondantes sont équipées d'une piste associée à des moyens de chauffage, par exemple par de l'air chaud ou de l'eau chaude circulant sur la piste, sous le manteau neigeux. Les pistes en question comportent également des moyens de drainage et éventuellement de récupération de l'eau de fonte, celle-ci pouvant être recyclée pour la production de neige de remplacement. Cette solution permet une élimination permanente de la sous-couche de glace, et son remplacement par de la neige fraîche en surface, et ceci sans utilisation de moyens de manutention de la neige à éliminer.The corresponding facilities are equipped with a track associated with heating means, for example by hot air or hot water circulating on the track, under the snowpack. The tracks in question also include drainage means and possibly meltwater recovery, which can be recycled for the production of snow replacement. This solution allows permanent removal of the underlayer of ice, and its replacement by fresh snow surface, and this without the use of snow handling means to eliminate.

Cependant, la mise en oeuvre de tels moyens de chauffage de la piste n'est pas entièrement satisfaisante, du fait de la grande quantité d'énergie nécessaire. La fonte par le dessous du manteau neigeux se traduit en outre par une perte totale de l'énergie frigorifique qui avait été utilisée pour sa congélation, sauf à mettre en place des systèmes de récupération d'énergie complexes et coûteux.However, the implementation of such means of heating the track is not entirely satisfactory, because of the large amount of energy required. The melting from below the snowpack also results in a total loss of the cooling energy which had been used for its freezing, except to set up complex and expensive energy recovery systems.

Pour les raisons évoquées ci-dessus, les installations de ski couvertes connues à ce jour ne permettent pas un maintien dans la durée d'un manteau neigeux de bonne qualité, cela de manière simple et satisfaisante. Ceci se traduit soit par la présence d'une neige de mauvaise qualité, soit par la nécessité d'éliminer des quantités importantes de neige usagée, afin de la remplacer par de la neige fraîche.For the reasons mentioned above, the covered ski facilities known to date do not allow maintenance of a snowpack of good quality in a simple and satisfactory manner. This results either in the presence of poor snow or in the need to remove large amounts of used snow and replace it with fresh snow.

De plus, l'emploi de moyens de chauffage de la piste, proposé dans certains documents de l'art antérieur, se traduit par des pertes d'énergie substantielles.In addition, the use of heating means of the track, proposed in some documents of the prior art, results in substantial energy losses.

Enfin, et de manière générale, les installations existantes qui sont exploitées en température négative, pour limiter la détérioration du manteau neigeux, causent un inconfort thermique notable pour les utilisateurs.Finally, and in general, the existing installations that are operated in negative temperature, to limit the deterioration of the snowpack, cause significant thermal discomfort for users.

La présente invention vise à remédier à ces inconvénients en proposant un nouveau procédé assurant le maintien, au cours du temps, de la qualité du manteau neigeux de l'installation. Le procédé en question a l'avantage d'être particulièrement efficace pour le renouvellement de la couche de neige, cela avec une structure simple d'installation et sans entraîner d'augmentation sensible de la consommation énergétique.The present invention aims to remedy these drawbacks by proposing a new method ensuring the maintenance, over time, the quality of the snowpack installation. The method in question has the advantage of being particularly effective for the renewal of the snow layer, this with a simple installation structure and without causing a significant increase in energy consumption.

Le procédé conforme à l'invention consiste à faire varier la température de l'air ambiant du hall selon des cycles réguliers ou sensiblement réguliers, par le contrôle des moyens de régulation de la température de l'air ambiant, entre :

  • une première température T1, avantageusement légèrement positive (de l'ordre de 1 à 5°C), pour faire subir une fonte superficielle au manteau neigeux, laquelle température T1 est maintenue pendant un temps t1 inférieur au temps nécessaire à la fonte totale dudit manteau neigeux, et
  • une seconde température T2, avantageusement négative (de l'ordre de -10 à -2°C) et adaptée pour la fabrication de neige par la mise en oeuvre de moyens de production adaptés, laquelle température T2 est maintenue pendant un temps t2 durant lequel une quantité suffisante de neige est fabriquée pour renouveler celle fondue pendant le temps t1.
The process according to the invention consists in varying the temperature of the ambient air of the hall in regular or substantially regular cycles, by controlling the means for regulating the temperature of the ambient air, between:
  • a first temperature T1, advantageously slightly positive (of the order of 1 to 5 ° C), to cause a superficial melting snowpack, which T1 temperature is maintained for a time t1 less than the time required for the total melting of said mantle snowy, and
  • a second temperature T2, advantageously negative (of the order of -10 to -2 ° C) and adapted for the manufacture of snow by the implementation of suitable production means, which temperature T2 is maintained for a time t2 during which a sufficient quantity of snow is made to renew the melted during the time t1.

De préférence, la période des cycles de température est de 24 heures ou voisine de 24 heures.Preferably, the period of the temperature cycles is 24 hours or close to 24 hours.

Selon cette forme préférentielle de réalisation, le procédé conforme à l'invention consiste à faire varier la température de l'air ambiant du hall selon un cycle de 24 heures au cours duquel :

  • la première température T1 est maintenue pendant un temps t1 compris entre 12 et 18 heures, correspondant de préférence aux heures d'ouverture au public de l'installation, et
  • la seconde température T2 est maintenue pendant un temps t2 compris entre 6 et 12 heures, correspondant de préférence aux heures de fermeture au public de l'installation.
According to this preferred embodiment, the process according to the invention consists in varying the temperature of the ambient air of the hall in a 24-hour cycle during which:
  • the first temperature T1 is maintained for a time t1 between 12 and 18 hours, preferably corresponding to the hours of opening to the public of the installation, and
  • the second temperature T2 is maintained for a time t2 between 6 and 12 hours, preferably corresponding to the closing times to the public of the installation.

En complément des variations de la température de l'air ambiant du hall, le procédé peut aussi consister à faire subir des variations de température à la surface de la piste, sous le manteau neigeux, par la mise en oeuvre de moyens adaptés de régulation de sa température, entre :

  • une première température de refroidissement de la couche inférieure du manteau neigeux, laquelle température, inférieure à 0°C, est maintenue pendant un temps de quelques heures par 24 heures (typiquement 2 à 4 heures par exemple), et
  • une température de fonte de la couche inférieure du manteau neigeux, égale ou sensiblement égale à 0°C, maintenue pendant le reste du temps.
In addition to the variations in the ambient air temperature of the hall, the method may also consist of subjecting temperature variations to the surface of the track, under the snowpack, by the implementation of adapted means for regulating the temperature of the hall. its temperature, between:
  • a first cooling temperature of the lower layer of the snowpack, which temperature, below 0 ° C, is maintained for a time of a few hours per 24 hours (typically 2 to 4 hours for example), and
  • a melting temperature of the lower layer of the snowpack, equal to or substantially equal to 0 ° C, maintained for the remainder of the time.

La présente invention a également pour objet l'installation couverte pour la pratique de sports de glisse, adaptée pour la mise en oeuvre du procédé présenté ci-dessus.The present invention also relates to the covered installation for the practice of sliding sports, adapted for the implementation of the method presented above.

L'installation correspondante comprend - un hall isolé thermiquement, recouvrant une piste dont la surface est couverte par un manteau neigeux fabriqué par des moyens de production de neige, et - des moyens de régulation de la température de l'air ambiant au sein du hall, pilotés selon un cycle régulier ou sensiblement régulier par des moyens de gestion appropriés du genre automate programmable, avec les régulateurs associés, entre :

  • une configuration de fonctionnement dans laquelle les moyens de gestion assurent le maintien de l'air du hall à la température T1, pendant le temps t1 adapté pour faire subir une légère fonte superficielle audit manteau neigeux, et
  • une configuration de fonctionnement dans laquelle les moyens de gestion assurent le maintien de l'air du hall à la température T2, pendant le temps t2 au cours duquel une quantité suffisante de neige est produite pour renouveler celle fondue pendant le temps t1.
The corresponding installation comprises - a thermally insulated hall covering a track whose surface is covered by a snowpack manufactured by means of snow production, and - means for regulating the ambient air temperature in the hall. , controlled according to a regular or substantially regular cycle by appropriate management means of the PLC type, with the associated regulators, between:
  • an operating configuration in which the management means ensure the maintenance of the hall air at the temperature T1, during the time t1 adapted to cause a slight superficial melting of said snowpack, and
  • an operating configuration in which the management means ensure the maintenance of the hall air temperature T2, during the time t2 during which a sufficient amount of snow is produced to renew the melted during time t1.

L'installation comporte encore des moyens de drainage des eaux de fonte du manteau neigeux.The installation also includes means for draining snowmelt from the snowpack.

Selon une forme particulière de réalisation, les moyens de régulation de la température comprennent une pluralité de dispositifs de refroidissement de l'air ambiant du hall, répartis sur la longueur de la piste ; ces dispositifs de refroidissement sont pilotés selon un cycle régulier ou sensiblement régulier, par les moyens de gestion précités, entre :

  • une configuration de fonctionnement dans laquelle ils sont arrêtés ou fonctionnent à une puissance réduite, de manière à maintenir l'air ambiant du hall à la température T1 positive, pendant le temps t1, assurant la légère fonte superficielle du manteau neigeux, et
  • une configuration de fonctionnement dans laquelle ils fonctionnent à une puissance adaptée pour maintenir l'air ambiant du hall à la température T2 légèrement négative, pendant le temps t2 durant lequel les moyens de production de neige sont mis en oeuvre, pour fabriquer une quantité de neige suffisante adaptée pour renouveler celle fondue pendant le temps t1.
According to a particular embodiment, the temperature control means comprise a plurality of air cooling devices ambient of the hall, distributed along the length of the runway; these cooling devices are controlled according to a regular or substantially regular cycle, by the aforementioned management means, between:
  • an operating configuration in which they are stopped or operate at a reduced power, so as to maintain the ambient air of the hall at the positive temperature T1 , during the time t1, ensuring the slight melting of the snowpack, and
  • an operating configuration in which they operate at a power adapted to maintain the ambient air of the hall at the temperature T2 slightly negative, during the time t2 during which the means of snow production are implemented, to manufacture a quantity of snow sufficient adapted to renew the melted during time t1.

Selon une disposition particulièrement intéressante de cette dernière forme de réalisation, les moyens de régulation de la température comportent encore une pluralité de dispositifs de chauffage participant au maintien de la température de l'air ambiant du hall.According to a particularly advantageous arrangement of the latter embodiment, the temperature control means further comprise a plurality of heating devices involved in maintaining the ambient air temperature of the hall.

Encore selon cette forme de réalisation, les dispositifs de refroidissement, et le cas échéant les dispositifs de chauffage, sont répartis régulièrement sur toute la longueur de la piste, et ils sont associés chacun à au moins un capteur de la température de l'air dans la zone d'action du dispositif de refroidissement, pour assurer un contrôle optimal de la température de l'air sur toute la longueur de la piste et pour éviter la formation d'un gradient de température sur sa longueur.Still according to this embodiment, the cooling devices, and if necessary the heating devices, are evenly distributed over the entire length of the track, and they are each associated with at least one air temperature sensor. the zone of action of the cooling device, to ensure optimum control of the air temperature over the entire length of the track and to avoid the formation of a temperature gradient along its length.

La piste sur laquelle est fabriqué le manteau neigeux est avantageusement constituée d'une sous-couche imperméable associée à un ou plusieurs matériau(x) de surface perméable(s) à l'eau. Les eaux de fonte peuvent ainsi circuler au travers de la ou des couche(s) perméable(s) et ruisseler jusqu'au revêtement imperméable avant de rejoindre des moyens collecteurs connectés à un ou plusieurs réservoirs.The track on which the snowpack is manufactured is advantageously constituted by an impermeable underlayer associated with one or more water-permeable surface material (s). The meltwater can thus circulate through the permeable layer (s) and run off to the impervious coating before joining collector means connected to one or more tanks.

Ce ou ces réservoirs peuvent être équipés de moyens permettant le recyclage des eaux de fonte pour la fabrication de neige.This or these tanks may be equipped with means for recycling meltwater for the manufacture of snow.

Pour optimiser le maintien de la qualité du manteau neigeux, la piste est encore avantageusement équipée de moyens de refroidissement agencés à proximité de la surface de la piste, destinés à réguler la température de la couche inférieure du manteau neigeux. Ces moyens de refroidissement de la surface de la piste consistent par exemple en un réseau de tubes dans lesquels circule un fluide réfrigérant.To optimize the maintenance of the quality of the snowpack, the track is still advantageously equipped with cooling means arranged near the surface of the track, for regulating the temperature of the lower layer of the snowpack. These cooling means of the surface of the track consist for example of a network of tubes in which circulates a refrigerant fluid.

Selon une autre disposition de l'invention, des moyens de mesure de la température de la neige sont agencés au voisinage de la surface de la piste ; ces moyens de mesure assurent le pilotage des moyens de refroidissement précités pour éviter une congélation permanente de la couche inférieure du manteau neigeux à proximité de ladite surface de la piste.According to another embodiment of the invention, means for measuring the temperature of the snow are arranged in the vicinity of the surface of the track; these measuring means provide control of the aforementioned cooling means to prevent permanent freezing of the lower layer of the snowpack near said surface of the track.

Mais l'invention sera encore illustrée, sans aucunement être limitée, par la description suivante d'une forme particulière de réalisation, donnée uniquement à titre d'exemple, et illustrée par les dessins annexés dans lesquels :

  • la figure 1 est une vue générale schématique d'une installation couverte conforme à l'invention, montrant ses principaux éléments constitutifs ;
  • la figure 2 est une vue schématique illustrant une première forme de réalisation possible des moyens de régulation de la température de l'air ambiant de l'installation ;
  • la figure 3 est une vue générale schématique détaillant une seconde forme de réalisation possible des moyens de régulation de la température de l'air ambiant de l'installation ;
  • la figure 4 est une vue agrandie en coupe transversale de la piste de la figure 1, détaillant la structure des moyens de drainage des eaux de fonte.
But the invention will be further illustrated, without being limited, by the following description of a particular embodiment, given solely by way of example, and illustrated by the appended drawings in which:
  • the figure 1 is a schematic overview of a covered installation according to the invention, showing its main components;
  • the figure 2 is a schematic view illustrating a first possible embodiment of the means for regulating the ambient air temperature of the installation;
  • the figure 3 is a schematic general view detailing a second possible embodiment of the means for regulating the ambient air temperature of the installation;
  • the figure 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the runway of the figure 1 , detailing the structure of the meltwater drainage means.

Telle qu'illustrée schématiquement sur la figure 1, l'installation pour la pratique de ski ou de tout autre sport de glisse, comprend : - un hall couvert 1 isolé thermiquement, recouvrant une piste 2 dont la surface est couverte par un manteau neigeux 3, - des moyens 4 de production de neige et - des moyens 5 permettant une régulation de la température de l'air ambiant du hall.As schematically illustrated on the figure 1 , the installation for skiing or any other gliding sport, includes: - a covered hall 1 thermally insulated, covering a track 2 whose surface is covered by a snowpack 3, - 4 means of snow production and means for regulating the temperature of the ambient air of the hall.

Selon l'invention, le maintien de la qualité du manteau neigeux 3 est assuré par l'application de cycles de température déterminés à l'air ambiant du hall.According to the invention, the maintenance of the quality of the snowpack 3 is ensured by the application of temperature cycles determined in the ambient air of the hall.

Les cycles de température correspondants sont obtenus par un pilotage adapté des moyens de régulation 5 constitués ici d'une pluralité de dispositifs aérofrigorifères 6 contrôlés par des moyens de gestion 7 appropriés, par exemple de type automate programmable (avec les régulateurs associés).The corresponding temperature cycles are obtained by suitable control of the control means 5 constituted here by a plurality of air-cooling devices 6 controlled by appropriate management means 7, for example of the programmable logic controller type (with the associated regulators).

Les dispositifs aérofrigorifères 6 en question sont en l'espèce contrôlés entre :

  • une configuration de fonctionnement dans laquelle ils sont arrêtés ou fonctionnent à une puissance réduite, de manière à maintenir l'air ambiant du hall à une température T1 légèrement positive, avantageusement comprise entre 1 et 5°C, ceci pendant un temps t1, pour faire subir une fonte légère superficielle au manteau neigeux 3, et
  • une configuration de fonctionnement dans laquelle ces dispositifs aérofrigorifères 6 fonctionnent à une puissance adaptée pour maintenir l'air ambiant du hall à une température T2 négative, avantageusement comprise entre - 10 et - 2°C, ceci pendant un temps t2 durant lequel les moyens de production de neige 4 sont mis en oeuvre pour fabriquer une quantité de neige suffisante pour renouveler celle fondue pendant le temps t1.
The aerofreigerior devices 6 in question are in this case controlled between:
  • an operating configuration in which they are stopped or operate at a reduced power, so as to maintain the ambient air of the hall at a slightly positive temperature T1 , advantageously between 1 and 5 ° C, this for a time t1, to make undergo a slight superficial melting in the snowpack 3, and
  • an operating configuration in which these air-cooling devices 6 operate at a power level adapted to maintain the ambient air of the hall at a Negative temperature T2 , advantageously between -10 and -2 ° C, for a time t2 during which the snow production means 4 are used to manufacture a sufficient amount of snow to renew the melted during time t1.

En pratique, la première température T1 est maintenue de manière générale pendant les heures diurnes d'ouverture au public de l'installation, c'est-à-dire par exemple pendant 12 à 18 heures selon les cas. Le confort thermique pour les utilisateurs est ainsi sensiblement amélioré, en particulier par rapport aux installations connues à ce jour dont la température ambiante est constamment négative. A titre indicatif, pendant le temps t1, un manteau neigeux de l'ordre de 70 cm d'épaisseur subit en moyenne une légère fonte superficielle de l'ordre de quelques millimètres (en général, 2 à 5 mm).In practice, the first temperature T1 is generally maintained during the daytime hours of public opening of the installation, that is to say for example for 12 to 18 hours depending on the case. The thermal comfort for the users is thus significantly improved, particularly compared to the known installations to date whose ambient temperature is constantly negative. As an indication, during the time t1, a snowpack of the order of 70 cm thick undergoes on average a slight melting of the order of a few millimeters (usually 2 to 5 mm).

La température T2 négative est quant à elle maintenue pendant un temps compris par exemple entre 6 et 12 heures (pour obtenir un cycle de température de 24 heures), et cela de préférence pendant les heures nocturnes de fermeture au public de l'installation. Cette période de température négative T2 est mise à profit pour mettre en oeuvre les moyens de production de neige 4, afin de fabriquer la neige destinée à renouveler la quantité fondue dans la journée, en l'occurrence pendant le temps t1 précité ; cette période est également mise à profit pour assurer l'entretien de la piste, notamment par damage.The negative T2 temperature is maintained for a period of, for example, between 6 and 12 hours (to obtain a 24-hour temperature cycle), and this is preferably during the nocturnal hours of closure to the public of the installation. This period of negative temperature T2 is used to implement the means for producing snow 4, in order to manufacture snow intended to renew the amount melted during the day, in this case during the time t1 mentioned above; this period is also used to ensure the maintenance of the track, including by grooming.

A titre indicatif, les moyens de production de neige correspondants peuvent être des enneigeurs du type de ceux utilisés classiquement en extérieur pour la fabrication de neige de culture ; ils peuvent consister en des canons haute ou basse pression fonctionnant par mélange d'air et d'eau sous pression, régulièrement répartis sur la longueur de la piste.As an indication, the corresponding snow production means may be snow guns of the type conventionally used outdoors for the manufacture of snow culture; they may consist of high or low pressure guns operating by mixing air and pressurized water, regularly distributed along the length of the track.

D'une manière générale, l'énergie frigorifique dépensée pendant le temps t2 à température négative pour fabriquer la neige est ainsi stockée dans le manteau neigeux, et elle est restituée à l'air ambiant, pendant le temps t1 à température positive, pour contribuer au maintien du hall à une température légèrement positive.In general, the cooling energy spent during the time t2 at negative temperature for making the snow is thus stored in the snowpack, and it is returned to the ambient air, during the time t1 at positive temperature, to contribute maintaining the hall at a slightly positive temperature.

Pour le contrôle optimal de la température de l'air ambiant du hall, les dispositifs aérofrigorifères 6 sont convenablement répartis sur la longueur de la piste 2, assurant chacun le maintien de la température d'un volume d'air déterminé dans le hall. La répartition de ces dispositifs aérofrigorifères 6 vise en particulier à éviter la formation d'un gradient de température sur la longueur de la piste, surtout lorsque la température du hall est légèrement positive.For optimum control of the ambient air temperature of the hall, the air-cooling devices 6 are suitably distributed along the length of the track 2, each ensuring the maintenance of the temperature of a determined volume of air in the hall. The distribution of these air-cooling devices 6 is intended in particular to avoid the formation of a temperature gradient along the length of the track, especially when the temperature of the hall is slightly positive.

En pratique, les dispositifs aérofrigorifères 6 sont agencés à proximité du plafond du hall et ils sont répartis sur la longueur de l'un au moins des côtés de la piste, avec un espacement compris de préférence entre 10 et 40 m, de façon que chacun de ces dispositifs projette son flux d'air transversalement à la pente de la piste ; des dispositifs aérofrigorifères 6 peuvent aussi être disposés à chacune des extrémités de la piste 2, de sorte que leur flux d'air soit orienté longitudinalement.In practice, the air-cooling devices 6 are arranged near the ceiling of the hall and they are distributed along the length of at least one side of the track, with a spacing of preferably between 10 and 40 m, so that each these devices project its air flow transversely to the slope of the track; air-cooling devices 6 may also be arranged at each end of the track 2, so that their air flow is oriented longitudinally.

Selon une première réalisation représentée schématiquement sur la figure 2, les moyens de régulation de température 5 comprennent une pluralité de dispositifs aérofrigorifères 6 connectés en parallèle sur un circuit frigorifique 10 alimenté en liquide réfrigérant par une centrale de réfrigération 11 associée à une pompe principale de circulation 12.According to a first embodiment shown schematically on the figure 2 , the temperature control means 5 comprise a plurality of air-cooling devices 6 connected in parallel on a refrigerant circuit 10 supplied with cooling liquid by a refrigeration plant 11 associated with a main circulation pump 12.

Les dispositifs aérofrigorifères 6 en question sont de conception classique et bien connue de l'homme du métier. Ils sont chacun équipés d'une batterie 13 alimentée en fluide réfrigérant, et d'un organe 14 de production d'un flux d'air, du type ventilateur. Un capteur (ou sonde) de température 15 de l'air ambiant du hall est connecté à la motorisation de l'organe de production du flux d'air 14 par l'intermédiaire d'un variateur de vitesse 16.The aerofreigerior devices 6 in question are of conventional design and well known to those skilled in the art. They are each equipped with a battery 13 supplied with refrigerant fluid, and a member 14 for producing an air flow, of the fan type. A sensor (or probe) 15 of the ambient air of the hall is connected to the actuator of the production member of the air flow 14 via a speed variator 16.

En fonction du point de consigne de température d'air ambiant défini par les moyens de gestion de l'installation, les capteurs de température 15 vont piloter d'une manière appropriée les organes de production de flux d'air 14, 16 associés, cela en vue de contrôler d'une manière adaptée l'énergie frigorifique émise dans l'air ambiant du hall. Lorsque la température de l'air ambiant du hall est inférieure au point de consigne défini par les moyens de gestions, les capteurs de température 15 réduisent le fonctionnement de la motorisation des organes de production de flux d'air 14, 16, pour limiter l'émission d'énergie frigorifique par les dispositifs aérofrigorifères 6 correspondants ; et d'autre part, lorsque la température du hall dépasse ce point de consigne, les capteurs de température 15 augmentent le fonctionnement des organes de production de flux d'air 14, 16 pour assurer l'émission d'énergie frigorifique dans le hall.Depending on the ambient air temperature setpoint set by the facility management means, the temperature sensors 15 will appropriately drive the associated airflow generating members 14, 16, which to suitably control the cooling energy emitted into the ambient air of the hall. When the ambient air temperature of the hall is lower than the set point defined by the management means, the temperature sensors 15 reduce the operation of the motorization of the airflow generating members 14, 16, to limit the emission of cooling energy by the corresponding air-cooling devices 6; and on the other hand, when the hall temperature exceeds this set point, the temperature sensors 15 increase the operation of the air flow producing members 14, 16 to ensure the emission of cooling energy into the hall.

Les capteurs de température 15 de chaque dispositif aérofrigorifère 6 sont disposés dans le hall pour maintenir au mieux la température définie par les moyens de gestion. A cet effet, ces capteurs de température peuvent être disposés au niveau de l'entrée d'air du dispositif aérofrigorifère 6 ; ils peuvent également être disposés à proximité de la surface supérieure du manteau neigeux 3, par exemple à la verticale du dispositif aérofrigorifère 6 associé.The temperature sensors 15 of each air-refrigerating device 6 are arranged in the hall to best maintain the temperature defined by the management means. For this purpose, these temperature sensors may be arranged at the air inlet of the air-refrigerating device 6; they can also be arranged near the upper surface of the snowpack 3, for example vertically associated aerofrigerifer device 6.

On notera que les valeurs de consigne utilisées correspondent aux températures souhaitées juste au-dessus du manteau neigeux.It should be noted that the set values used correspond to the desired temperatures just above the snowpack.

La figure 3 représente une forme alternative de réalisation des moyens 5 de régulation de la température de l'air ambiant du hall.The figure 3 represents an alternative embodiment of the means 5 for regulating the ambient air temperature of the hall.

En substance, on retrouve les dispositifs aérofrigorifères 6 connectés sur un circuit frigorifique 10 alimenté en liquide réfrigérant par une centrale de réfrigération 11 associée à une pompe principale de circulation 12. Les moyens de régulation 5 se distinguent de ceux décrits précédemment en relation avec la figure 2, du fait de la connexion de chaque dispositif aérofrigorifère 6 avec le circuit frigorifique 10 par le biais d'un circuit intermédiaire 17 sur lequel sont placées une vanne trois voies 18 et une pompe locale 19.In essence, there are the air-cooling devices 6 connected to a refrigerant circuit 10 supplied with refrigerant liquid by a refrigeration unit 11 associated with a main circulation pump 12. The regulation means 5 are different from those described above in connection with the figure 2 , due to the connection of each air-refrigeration device 6 with the refrigerant circuit 10 via an intermediate circuit 17 on which are placed a three-way valve 18 and a local pump 19.

Les circuits intermédiaires 17 en question comprennent deux conduites, l'une entrante 20 et l'autre sortante 21. La vanne trois voies 18 est placée sur la conduite entrante 20 et elle est reliée à la conduite sortante 21 par une conduite de by-pass 22. La pompe locale 19 est également placée sur la conduite entrante 20, entre la vanne trois voies 18 et le dispositif aérofrigorifère 6. Le capteur de température 15 contrôle la vanne trois voies 18 pour réguler le niveau d'énergie frigorifique libérée par le dispositif aérofrigorifère 6 associé.The intermediate circuits 17 in question comprise two pipes, one entering and the other leaving 21. The three-way valve 18 is placed on the incoming pipe 20 and is connected to the outgoing pipe 21 by a bypass pipe 22. The local pump 19 is also placed on the incoming pipe 20, between the three-way valve 18 and the air-refrigerating device 6. The temperature sensor 15 controls the three-way valve 18 to regulate the level of cooling energy released by the device aerofrigerifer 6 associated.

En pratique, la vanne trois voies 18 est pilotable entre deux positions en fonction de la température de l'air ambiant mesurée par le capteur associé 15. Lorsque la température mesurée au niveau du capteur 15 s'élève au-dessus de celle indiquée par les moyens de gestion de l'installation, la vanne 18 est pilotée de manière à permettre un cheminement de fluide réfrigérant dans la conduite entrante 20 jusqu'au dispositif aérofrigorifère 6 associé, pour assurer l'émission d'énergie frigorifique dans le hall ; d'autre part, lorsque la température devient inférieure à celle indiquée par les moyens de gestion, la vanne 18 est pilotée dans une configuration assurant le recyclage du fluide réfrigérant provenant de la conduite sortante 21, au moyen de la conduite by-pass 22, et aussi de la pompe secondaire 19 forçant la recirculation du fluide réfrigérant dans le dispositif aérofrigorifère correspondant.In practice, the three-way valve 18 can be controlled between two positions as a function of the ambient air temperature measured by the associated sensor 15. When the temperature measured at the sensor 15 rises above that indicated by the management means of the installation, the valve 18 is controlled so as to allow a flow of refrigerant in the incoming pipe 20 to the associated air-refrigerating device 6, to ensure the emission of cooling energy in the hall; on the other hand, when the temperature becomes lower than that indicated by the management means, the valve 18 is controlled in a configuration ensuring the recycling of the refrigerant coming from the outgoing pipe 21, by means of the bypass pipe 22, and also the secondary pump 19 forcing the recirculation of the refrigerant in the corresponding air-refrigerating device.

Selon une variante de réalisation, des dispositifs de chauffage de l'air ambiant peuvent être convenablement répartis dans le hall, pour faciliter encore le maintien de l'air ambiant du hall à une température adaptée. Ces dispositifs de chauffage sont particulièrement intéressants pour maintenir l'air ambiant du hall à la température T1 légèrement positive, lorsque l'installation fonctionne avec un air extérieur à température négative.According to an alternative embodiment, ambient air heating devices can be properly distributed in the hall, to further facilitate the maintenance of the ambient air of the hall at a suitable temperature. These heaters are particularly useful for maintaining the ambient air of the hall at slightly positive temperature T1 , when the installation operates with outside air at negative temperature.

Selon le cas, des batteries échangeuses caloriques ou des résistances électriques peuvent équiper les dispositifs aérofrigorifères du hall ; ces moyens de chauffage peuvent également être distincts des dispositifs aérofrigorifères, et convenablement répartis dans le hall.Depending on the case, heat exchanger batteries or electrical resistances can equip the air-cooling devices of the hall; these heating means may also be separate air-cooling devices, and properly distributed in the hall.

Tel que représenté en détail sur la figure 4, la surface de la piste 2 est équipée de moyens structurels 25 assurant le drainage des eaux de fonte de la couche superficielle du manteau neigeux.As shown in detail on the figure 4 the surface of the runway 2 is equipped with structural means 25 for draining the meltwater from the superficial layer of the snowpack.

Les moyens de drainage correspondants 25 sont constitués par une structure en forme de matelas, apte à supporter le poids du manteau neigeux et le poids des skieurs présents sur la piste. Concrètement, la structure de drainage 25 comprend ici un matériau central drainant 26 (par exemple en fils de polyéthylène ou autres matériaux filaires résistants enchevêtrés), associé à un film perméable 27 sur sa face supérieure en regard du manteau neigeux 3, et à un film étanche 28 sur sa face inférieure en regard de la piste 2. On observe encore sur cette figure 4 la présence d'une structure assurant l'accrochage du manteau neigeux 3, rapportée sur la structure de drainage 25 ; cette structure d'accrochage 29, encore appelée « paillasson d'accrochage », est perméable à l'eau.The corresponding drainage means 25 consist of a structure in the form of a mattress, able to support the weight of the snowpack and the weight of the skiers present on the track. Specifically, the drainage structure 25 here comprises a draining core material 26 (for example polyethylene threads or other entangled resistant wire materials), associated with a permeable film 27 on its upper face facing the snowpack 3, and a film watertight 28 on its lower face next to the track 2. It is still observed on this figure 4 the presence of a structure ensuring the attachment of the snowpack 3, reported on the drainage structure 25; this hooking structure 29, also called "hooking mat", is permeable to water.

En pratique, les eaux provenant de la fonte de la couche superficielle du manteau neigeux migrent par gravité jusqu'au film étanche 28. Ensuite, l'eau ruisselle vers le bas de la piste 2 où elle est récupérée, par des collecteurs 30, dans un réservoir de stockage 31 installé en sous-sol (figure 1). Pour optimiser le rendement de l'installation, le réservoir de stockage 31 est avantageusement équipé d'un système d'assainissement d'eau, en vue du recyclage des eaux récoltées par les moyens de production de neige 4.In practice, the water coming from the melting of the superficial layer of the snowpack migrates by gravity to the sealed film 28. Then, the water flows down the track 2 where it is recovered, by collectors 30, in a storage tank 31 installed in the basement ( figure 1 ). To optimize the efficiency of the installation, the storage tank 31 is advantageously equipped with a water purification system, for the purpose of recycling water harvested by the snow production means 4.

Selon une variante de réalisation, non représentée, la piste 2 peut être revêtue d'un simple matériau perméable à l'eau, pour assurer le drainage et l'écoulement de l'eau de fonte en direction du sous-sol.According to an alternative embodiment, not shown, the track 2 may be coated with a simple material permeable to water, to ensure the drainage and flow of melt water towards the basement.

Dans cette variante, les eaux peuvent aussi être récupérées dans un réservoir de stockage par des collecteurs appropriés. L'eau collectée peut être utilisée par les moyens de production de neige, pour le renouvellement du manteau neigeux de la piste.In this variant, the water can also be recovered in a storage tank by appropriate collectors. The collected water can be used by the means of snow production for the renewal of the snowpack of the track.

Pour assurer encore une qualité optimale du manteau neigeux, l'installation est avantageusement équipée de moyens de régulation de la température de la couche inférieure du manteau neigeux. Le rôle de ces moyens de régulation de température est d'empêcher la formation d'une sous-couche de glace compacte, et plutôt de favoriser la formation des ponts de regel nécessaires à une bonne résistance mécanique du manteau neigeux.To further ensure optimal quality of the snowpack, the installation is advantageously equipped with means for regulating the temperature of the lower layer of the snowpack. The role of these temperature control means is to prevent the formation of a compact ice layer, and to promote the formation of the bridges of freezing necessary for a good mechanical resistance of the snowpack.

Ces moyens de régulation de la température de la sous-couche inférieure du manteau neigeux consistent ici en des moyens de refroidissement comprenant une centrale de refroidissement (non représentée) assurant la circulation d'un fluide frigorifique dans un réseau de tubes de refroidissement convenablement répartis sur toute la surface de la piste 2. Ces tubes de refroidissement, repérés 32 sur la figure 4, reposent sur la structure d'accrochage 29 ; ils sont répartis de préférence dans le sens de la pente avec un espacement transversal qui peut être d'environ 30 cm ; le diamètre des tubes utilisés peut être de l'ordre de 10 mm.These means for regulating the temperature of the lower sub-layer of the snowpack here consist of cooling means comprising a cooling unit (not shown) ensuring the circulation of a refrigerant in a network of cooling tubes suitably distributed over the entire surface of track 2. These cooling tubes, marked 32 on the figure 4 , rest on the hooking structure 29; they are preferably distributed in the direction of the slope with a transverse spacing which may be about 30 cm; the diameter of the tubes used may be of the order of 10 mm.

Les moyens de refroidissement en question sont également contrôlés par le système de gestion de l'installation pour faire subir des variations de température à la couche inférieure du manteau neigeux, entre - une première température de refroidissement inférieure à 0°C, maintenue pendant un temps de l'ordre de quelques heures par 24 heures, et une température de fonte de la couche inférieure du manteau neigeux, égale ou sensiblement égale à 0°C, maintenue pendant le reste du temps.The cooling means in question are also controlled by the plant management system to cause temperature variations in the lower layer of the snowpack, between - a first cooling temperature below 0 ° C, maintained for a time on the order of a few hours per 24 hours, and a melting temperature of the lower layer of the snowpack, equal or substantially equal to 0 ° C, maintained for the rest of the time.

Pour un contrôle efficace de la température de la sous-couche du manteau neigeux tout au long du cycle, la centrale de refroidissement est pilotée de manière appropriée par des capteurs convenablement répartis dans la sous-couche du manteau neigeux.For effective control of the temperature of the snow cover underlayer throughout the cycle, the cooling unit is appropriately controlled by properly distributed sensors in the undercoat of the snowpack.

Le procédé selon l'invention, qui consiste à ajuster les moyens de production de froid dans le hall de manière à alterner chaque jour la température entre des valeurs négative (grossièrement pendant la nuit) et légèrement positive (grossièrement pendant le jour), présente tout d'abord un avantage énergétique, puisque l'énergie de fonte de la neige est intégralement récupérée. Pour laisser remonter la température dans le hall en fonctionnement diurne, on peut arrêter ou réduire fortement la puissance des moyens de refroidissement. Le manteau neigeux est alors plus froid que l'air ambiant et il contribue au maintien de l'air ambiant à la température légèrement positive désirée. L'énergie frigorifique dépensée la nuit pour fabriquer la neige est alors stockée dans le manteau neigeux ; elle est restituée le jour à l'air ambiant pour contribuer à la climatisation de l'installation.The method according to the invention, which consists in adjusting the cold production means in the hall in such a way as to alternate daily the temperature between negative (roughly during the night) and slightly positive (roughly during the day) values, presents all first, an energy advantage, since the melting energy of the snow is fully recovered. To allow the temperature in the hall to rise in daytime operation, the power of the cooling means can be stopped or greatly reduced. The snowpack is then colder than the ambient air and it helps maintain the ambient air at the desired slightly positive temperature. The cooling energy spent at night to make the snow is then stored in the snowpack; it is returned during the day to the ambient air to contribute to the air conditioning of the installation.

Outre son intérêt énergétique, ce procédé améliore le confort thermique pour les utilisateurs, du fait de la température moins froide pendant les heures d'ouverture au public. En outre, les cycles de gel et de dégel contribuent fortement à améliorer la qualité du manteau neigeux, tant en surface qu'en profondeur.In addition to its energetic interest, this process improves the thermal comfort for the users, because of the colder temperature during the hours of opening to the public. In addition, freeze and thaw cycles greatly contribute to improving snowpack quality, both at the surface and at depth.

A titre indicatif, ce genre de piste couverte peut mesurer plusieurs centaines de mètres de long et plusieurs dizaines de mètres de large, la hauteur du hall équipé pouvant aller de 7 à 8 m jusqu'à 20 m.As an indication, this kind of covered runway can be several hundred meters long and several tens of meters wide, the height of the equipped hall that can go from 7 to 8 m up to 20 m.

Les moyens de production du froid sont de préférence aménagés juste sous le plafond du hall ; ils peuvent s'étendre d'un côté ou des deux côtés de la piste, et même pour certains être prévus au centre (par exemple dans une zone de séparation longitudinale de la piste).The means for producing the cold are preferably arranged just below the ceiling of the hall; they may extend on one or both sides of the runway, and even for some to be provided in the center (for example in a longitudinal separation zone of the runway).

Bien entendu, des moyens de production de froid, autres que ceux décrits ci-dessus, pourront être utilisés. Par exemple, une ou plusieurs centrales de traitement d'air peuvent être aménagées dans un local annexe du hall principal, l'air froid produit par ces centrales étant acheminé par un réseau de gaines et étant pulsé dans le hall principal par l'intermédiaire de bouches de soufflage adaptées.Of course, means for producing cold, other than those described above, may be used. For example, one or more air handling units may be located in an adjoining room in the main hall, the cold air produced by these plants being conveyed by a network of ducts and being pulsed in the main hall through adapted air vents.

Claims (16)

  1. A method for maintaining the quality of the snow cover (3) on the surface of a slope (2) in an indoor installation for practising ski or another winter sport, wherein said installation comprises: - a thermally-insulated hall (1) covering said slope (2), - snow producing means (4), and - means (5) for regulating the ambient air temperature within said hall (1), characterized in that it consists in varying the ambient air temperature in the hall (1), according to regular or substantially-regular cycles, by controlling said temperature regulation means (5), between:
    - a first temperature T1, which is adapted for causing a partial surface melting of the snow cover (3), said temperature T1 being maintained for a time t1 shorter than the time necessary for the snow cover (3) to entirely melt, and
    - a second temperature T2, which is for producing snow by operating the corresponding production means (4), said temperature T2 being maintained for a time t2 during which snow is produced in a sufficient quantity to renew the snow that had melted during the time t1.
  2. A method according to claim 1, characterized in that it consists in varying the ambient air temperature in the all (1) between:
    - a first, slightly positive temperature T1, which is adapted for causing a surface melting of the snow cover (3), for a time t1, and
    - a second, negative temperature T2, which is adapted for producing snow intended to renew the snow that had melted during the time t1.
  3. A method according to any one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the first temperature T1, which is adapted for causing a surface melting of the snow cover (3), is comprised between and °C, in the vicinity of said snow cover (3).
  4. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the second temperature T2, which is adapted for producing snow intended to renew the snow that had melted during the time t1, is comprised between -10 and -2°C.
  5. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the period of the temperature cycles is of the or 24 hours.
  6. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that it consists in varying the ambient air temperature in the hall (1) according to a cycle of 24 hours, during which:
    - the first temperature T1 is maintained for a time t1 comprised between 12 and 18 hours, corresponding preferably to the public opening hours of the installation, and
    - the second temperature T2 is maintained for a time t2 comprised between 6 and 12 hours, corresponding preferably to the public closing hours of the installation.
  7. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that it consists in also varying the temperature at the surface of the slope (2), under the snow cover (3), by operating suitable temperature regulation means (32), between:
    - a first temperature of cooling the lower layer of the snow cover (3), which temperature is lower than 0°C and is maintained for a duration of a few hours per 24 hours, and
    - a temperature of melting of the lower layer of the snow cover (3), equal or substantially equal to 0°C, which is maintained during the remaining time of the 24-pour cycle.
  8. An indoor installation for practising ski or anther winter sport, adapted for implementing the method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein said installation comprises: - a thermally-insulated hall (1) coverin a slope (2) whose surface is covered with a snow cover (3) produced by snow producing means (4), - means (5) for regulating the ambient air temperature within the hall (1), associated with ambient air temperature sensors (15), and - suitable management means (7), of the programmable controller type, with the associated regulators, configured to control the operation of said temperature regulation means (5), according to a regular or substantially-regular cycle, between:
    - an operating configuration in which they maintain the air of the hall (1) at a temperature T1, during a time t1 for causing a surface melting of said snow cover (3), and
    - an operating configuration in which they maintain the air of the hall (1) at a temperature T2, during a time t2 during which snow is produced in a sufficient quantity to renew the snow that had melted during the time t1,
    and in that it comprises means (25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31) for draining the melt waters of the snow cover (3).
  9. An installation according to claim 8, characterized in that the temperature regulation means (5) comprise a plurality of devices (6) for cooling the ambient air of the all (1), distributed over the length of the slope (2), and in that the suitable management means (7), of the programmable controller type, with the associate regulators, are configured to control the operation of said temperature regulation means (5), according to a regular or substantially-regular cycle, between:
    - an operating configuration in which said cooling devices (6) are stopped or operate at a reduced power, so as to maintain the ambient air of the hall (1) at the positive temperature T1, during a time t1, for causing the surface melting of the snow cover (3), and
    - an operating configuration in which said cooling devices (6) operate at a power adapted to maintain the ambient air of the hall (1) at the slightly negative temperature T2, during a time t2 during which the snow producing means (4) are operate to product snow in a sufficient quantity adapted to renew the snow that had melted during the time t1.
  10. An installation according to claim 9, characterized in that the temperature regulation means (5) further comprise a plurality of devices for heating the ambient air of the hall (1).
  11. An installation according to any one of claims 9 or 10, characterized in that the cooling devices (6), and, according to the case, the heating devices, are distributed over the whole length of the slope (2), and are each associated with at least one sensor (15) for sensing the air temperature in the operating area of the cooling device, to provide an optimal control of the air temperature over the whole length of the slope and to avoid the formation of a temperature gradient over the length thereof.
  12. An installation according to any one of claims 8 to 11, characterized in that it comprises a slope (2), whose surface is made of an impermeable coasting (28) covered with at least one water-permeable layer (26, 27, 29), allowing the circulation of the melt waters through said permeable layer(s) and the running thereof on the impermeable coating (28).
  13. An installation according to any one of claims 8 to 12, characterize in that the draining means (26, 27, 28, 29) provide for the circulation of the melt waters up to collectors (30) connected to one or several tanks (31), wherein said tank(s) (31) are equipped with means for recycling said melt waters in order to produce snow.
  14. An installation according to any one of claims to 13, characterized in that it is equipped with cooling means (32) arranged in the vicinity of the surface of the slope (2) and intended to regulate the temperature of the lower layer of the snow cover (3).
  15. An installation according to claim 14, characterized in that the means for cooling the lower layer of the snow cover consist of an array of tubes (32) in which a cooling fluid circulates.
  16. An installation according to any one of claims 14 or 15, characterized in that it comprises means for measuring the temperature of snow near the surface of the slope (2), wherein said measuring means control the means (32) for cooling the snow cover (3) to avoid a permanent freeze of the lower layer thereof in the vicinity of said surface of the slope (2).
EP05746732A 2004-04-20 2005-04-20 Method of maintaining the quality of the snow cover at an indoor winter sports facility, and facility for implementing one such method Active EP1756489B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

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FR0404150A FR2869050B1 (en) 2004-04-20 2004-04-20 METHOD FOR MAINTAINING THE QUALITY OF SNOW COAT OF A CLOSED SPORTS SPORTS INSTALLATION, AND INSTALLATION FOR IMPLEMENTING SUCH A METHOD
PCT/FR2005/050265 WO2005106355A1 (en) 2004-04-20 2005-04-20 Method of maintaining the quality of the snow cover at an indoor winter sports facility, and facility for implementing one such method

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FR2906015B1 (en) * 2006-09-14 2008-10-24 York France Soc Par Actions Si IMPROVEMENTS TO FACILITIES COVERED FOR SKIING OR OTHER SPORTS PRACTICE
NL2018805B1 (en) * 2017-04-28 2018-11-05 Unlimited Leisure Holding B V Climate Strategy for Indoor Recreation Facility
JP2024051439A (en) * 2022-09-30 2024-04-11 エスペック株式会社 Snow accretion test method and snow accretion test device

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CA1332517C (en) * 1988-06-22 1994-10-18 Malcolm Geoege Clulow Snow making equipment
JP2548065B2 (en) 1993-02-01 1996-10-30 鹿島建設株式会社 Snow melting equipment for indoor artificial ski resorts
JPH06240627A (en) 1993-02-17 1994-08-30 Nkk Corp Snow layer temperature control method of indoor artificial skiing field
JP2964828B2 (en) 1993-03-19 1999-10-18 株式会社大林組 Snow melting equipment for artificial ski slopes
US6079161A (en) * 1997-05-16 2000-06-27 Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. Indoor type skiing ground, and method and controller for indoor type skiing ground
US6295824B1 (en) * 2000-01-17 2001-10-02 Kabushiki Kaisha Piste Snow Industries Snow producing system in which meltwater is reused
DE10125496C1 (en) * 2001-05-23 2003-02-27 Allrounder Winter World Gmbh & Skihalle
DE10210991A1 (en) * 2002-03-13 2003-10-16 Joachim Paul Winter sports hall operation for snow-covered sloping floors specifies incoming air temperature and humidity and proposes incoming air mix with outside air and cooled by crushed snow input.

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ATE546699T1 (en) 2012-03-15
WO2005106355A1 (en) 2005-11-10
FR2869050B1 (en) 2006-07-28
FR2869050A1 (en) 2005-10-21

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