EP4019387A1

EP4019387A1 - Floating structure and container and bridge part for use in a floating structure, and method of stabilizing a floating structure

Info

Publication number: EP4019387A1
Application number: EP21215197.1A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Jan Paul Ferdinand Kimmel; Jurjen WESTRA
Original assignee: MCT MESH CONSTRUCTION TECHNOLOGY HOLDING BV; Mct Mesh Construction Tech Holding BV
Current assignee: MCT MESH CONSTRUCTION TECHNOLOGY HOLDING BV; Mct Mesh Construction Tech Holding BV
Priority date: 2020-12-18
Filing date: 2021-12-16
Publication date: 2022-06-29
Also published as: NL2027165B1

Abstract

The invention relates to a floating structure, the floating structure having a top and a bottom opposite thereto. The floating structure comprises: a constructional element comprising mounting means for mounting a plurality of floats; and at least one float mounted to the constructional element by said mounting means. According to the invention the at least one float comprises a container with an end surface and a circumferential wall, the container having an open end opposite the end surface, the end surface and circumferential wall being substantially airtight, and the container being arranged with its open ends towards the bottom of the floating structure. The invention also related to a method for stabilizing a floating structure.

Description

The invention relates to a floating structure, the floating structure having a top and a bottom opposite thereto, the floating structure comprising a constructional element comprising mounting means for mounting a plurality of floats, and at least one float mounted to the constructional element by said mounting means.
Floating structures as described in the preamble are known as such, and may be used for a variety of applications. First and foremost, they may be used to support photovoltaic panels. Using such floating structures for carrying photovoltaic panels may offer the advantage that bodies of water, in particular inland water, may be used to build solar parks for energy production. Accordingly, there is no need to use valuable and/or scarce land area for a solar park.
Other applications for floating structures exist. In particular, floating structures may be used to provide space for events, such as concerts etcetera. Further, the floating structure may be used as a work platform, for instance for a crane or a digger. In yet another application the floating structure may support infrastructure or buildings, for instance for growing crops on water.
A concern with the known floating structures, is that it offers relatively little stability. To provide the desired amount of stability, the existing floating structures are designed to be very large and bulky, and may require weighting or other stabilizing methods.
Stability may herein be understood as a resistance to disturbances, originating from external forces such as wind or waves, or from load carried or supported by the floating structure, or from a combination thereof.
It is an aim of this application to provide a relatively stable floating structure that is preferably less costly and/or less complex.
This aim is achieved by a floating structure as described in the preamble, characterized in that the at least one float comprises a container with an end surface and a circumferential wall, the container having an open end opposite the end surface, the end surface and circumferential wall being substantially airtight, and the container being arranged with its open ends towards the bottom of the floating structure.
A float comprising an open-ended container may contribute to stabilizing the floating structure. First, it must be noted the floating structure may remain afloat by trapping air in the containers. The containers being open-ended may aid in stabilizing the platform, by allowing a portion of the trapped air to escape. As a result, the floating structure may float in the water at a lower level, thereby already increasing stability, and lowering susceptibility to e.g. wind. Further, the open containers may contribute to stabilizing the structure as follows. When a tilting force would be applied to a floating structure with multiple floats, at least one of the floats may be urged out of the water. Since there is no way for air to enter the container, since at least first its open end is still in the water, the upwards movement of the container causes a lowered pressure in the interior of the container. The lowered pressure is immediately compensated by a rising water level inside the container. As a result, moving a container upwards out of the water, requires lifting an amount of water that is roughly equal to the volume of air let out of the container in the first place.
Furthermore the containers being open-ended may allow increasing the stability of the platform by extending the circumferential wall of the container downwards when it is floating in the water. During this process, the floating structure can remain floating at the same level, but the stability of the structure can be enhanced by increasing the capacity of the containers into the water.
The open ended containers contribution to stabilizing may be summarized as follows. When a tilting force would be applied to a floating structure with multiple open ended floats, at least one of the floats may be urged out of the water. Since there is no way for air to enter the container, since at least at first its open end is still in the water, the upwards movement of the container causes a lowered pressure in the interior of the container. The lowered pressure is immediately compensated by a rising water level inside the container. As a result, moving a container upwards out of the water, requires lifting an amount of water that is roughly equal to the extended volume to the container in the first place by extending the circumferential wall.
The floating structure can be thought of as self-stabilizing, because when it is tilted further or rocked, some air may exit the containers. Moreover, air may also escape under the influence of pressure changes or even waves, for instance via a slight deformation of the walls of the containers. The air escaping the containers contributes to increasing stability by enhancing the effects described above. Another advantage of an open-ended float, is that a smaller surface area of water is covered by the float. This may reduce the ecological impact of the floating structure.
Of course, air may also enter the container, e.g. via its open end. Accordingly, the buoyancy of the floats may be enhanced or restored after air has been let out.
To enable air to escape or enter to a desired degree, at least the circumferential wall of the containers may be deformable. The circumferential wall may be deformable sufficiently to allow some air to escape the container when the floating structure is rocked and/or pushed down into the water.
As such, the floating structure can be introduced into the water, and while the structure is afloat, its stability may be increased by rocking and/or pushing it down into the water. As a result, no further opening or air outlets in the container may be needed.
To achieve the deformability, the circumferential wall may be made of a material that is flexible, in particular sufficiently flexible to allow deformation of the container wall to allow at least some air to escape. In particular, at least about 5% of air by volume may be allowed to escape the container, more preferably at least about 7,5%, most preferably at least 10%.
The constructional element may be used to connect several floats together. Moreover, multiple constructional elements could be used to form a mutual connection between floats. Alternatively, all floats may be connected to the same constructional element, which could thus be referred to as a frame.
In an embodiment of the floating structure, the at least one float comprises an air outlet debouching in the container of the respective float at a distance from the open end of said container.
The air outlet may be used to let out air from the container, after the floating structure has been let into the water. As such, the stability may be increased while floating, for instance to a desired degree.
In another embodiment of the floating structure, the at least one float comprises a conduit providing said air outlet, the conduit extending through the open end of the respective container to an exterior of said container.
Using such a conduit, no hole needs to be provided in the container walls. This allows an especially robust design of the float, that may be relatively insusceptible to leaking.
The conduit may run into the container from the bottom, for instance until above a waterline, or intended water line.
Alternatively, the air outlet may comprise an opening in the circumferential wall or the end surface. This may allow for fewer number of components, thus sticking to a relatively simple design.
In yet another embodiment of the floating structure, the floating structure comprises a plurality of said floats, wherein the interiors of some or all of the plurality of floats are interconnected to each other via their respective outlets and a manifold interconnecting said outlets.
By interconnecting the floats, the amount of air in each individual float may be adjusted to the amount of air in other floats. For instance, an equal amount of air may be let out through all floats. Of course, air can also be let in in the same manner.
Moreover, air may be allowed to flow from one float to the other, which may in particular be useful when the floating structure is subjected to waves, as allowing the air to move may at least partly compensate for the waves.
In particular, the floating structure may comprising a valve connected to each outlet of each float, said valves being arranged to selectively allow and block a flow of air through the respective outlets.
Using the valves, the flow of air may be controlled. As such, the amount of air let out of the container for stabilizing the platform may be suitable chosen. Moreover, if a leak is detected in one of the floats, it may be isolated from the rest by closing the valves connecting to the leaking float.
In yet another embodiment of the floating structure, at least one of the air outlets is connected to the open air via a passageway comprising a valve for opening and closing said passageway.
The passageway may be used to let out air of the containers, so as to increase the stability.
The containers may be expandable. Expandable containers offer the advantage that their capacity can be increased. By increasing the capacity of the container while it is in the water, the amount of water held by the container can be increased. Accordingly, the stability can be increased.
The expandability can be achieved by providing an extendable circumferential wall. The wall may be let down into the water in order to encompass more water upon further extension. An extendable wall could be achieved by employing two interconnected wall sections that overlap partially, where the overlap between the two wall sections can be changed by moving the wall sections with respect to each other. Alternatively, a wall can be created of a material that is flexible or foldable in a concertina-like fashion.
In particular, the passageway may connect the manifold to the open air. Accordingly, all containers connecting to the manifold may be connected to the open air via the manifold, thereby requiring a single passageway for multiple containers. In yet another embodiment of the floating structure, the structure comprises multiple floats arranged in at least two rows of floats, the at least two rows being disposed substantially parallel to each other at a mutual distance.
Using at least two rows of floats may greatly increase the stability of the floating structure, while using only a limited amount of floats. This has the advantage that a relatively small area of water is covered by the floats. Accordingly, the ecological impact of the floating structure on the water may be kept relatively small. This is in particular important when many floating structures or a large floating structures would be used, as is envisioned for building floating solar parks.
In particular, the at least two rows may be provided along two opposite side edges of the floating structure. This may enhance the stability even further.
In particular, the at least two rows may extend along substantially the entirety of the floating structure. This also may enhance the stability even further.
In yet another embodiment of the floating structure, the circumferential wall of each container enclosing an internal angle with the respective end surface that is larger than 90°.
The applicant has found that the internal angle being of this size may contribute to letting out some air of the respective container after the floating structure has been let into the water. In particular, with such an internal angle, sufficient air may be let out by rocking the floating structure and/or by bouncing it up and down.
The angle has a particularly large advantage when the containers are comprised of the flexible material described above, as the rocking and/or bouncing may aid in achieving a slight deformation of the circumferential wall to let out air.
The internal angle being of the above mentioned size, may also bring about the advantage that the containers are stackable. When the containers are stackable, the floating structure may be easily transported and assembled on-site. This is particularly useful when installing many floating structures or a large floating structure. Moreover, stackable containers may be advantageous in the case of temporary floating structures, which may be disassembled after a relatively short use.
Said material may for instance be plastic, such as PE, PP or PET.
Further, the floating structure may comprise at least one bridge component arranged between two directly adjacent containers, the at least one bridge part having a tapering cross sectional shape so as to be form-fitted between the two directly adjacent containers.
Using a bridge part may create a flush surface including an end surface of the bridge component and the end surfaces of the respective containers. The flush surface may be used for supporting e.g. personnel or photovoltaic panels or any other structure requiring a flush surface.
In yet another embodiment of the floating structure, the end surface of each container is provided with a plurality of ribs and/or protrusions on its outside. The ribs or protrusions may provide a non-slip surface.
As such, the floating structure may comprise at least one walkway over one of the rows of floats. The walkway may include bridge components.
The walkway may allow servicing parts of the floating structure that would otherwise be unavailable.
In yet another embodiment of the floating structure, containers lying directly adjacent to each other are fixed to each other at a free end of their respective circumferential walls. Fixing the containers at their free ends may increase the structural rigidity of the floating structure. In particular, it has been found that when containers are connected mutually at their free end, and connected to each other via e.g. a frame at their end surfaces, a structural platform of sufficient rigidity can be achieved.
In yet another embodiment of the floating structure, a frame is provided comprising at least one longitudinal frame element as the constructional element, the floating structure having a row of floats, the container of each float comprising at least one recess along an external edge of the end surface of the respective container, said recesses of containers in said row being aligned in order to at least partially receive the at least one longitudinal frame member of the frame for connecting the container of each float in the row to the at least one longitudinal frame member.
By recessing the containers, thereby creating a space for receiving the longitudinal frame element, a relatively simple connection may be made between the frame and the floats, which is nevertheless of sufficient strength. In particular, by arranging the recess at the end surface, a floating force, which is oriented upwards, may effectively be used to press the frame and the floats together when the frame is loaded, since the load would be oriented downwards.
In particular, the at least one longitudinal frame member may comprise at least one lateral protrusion and the container of each float in the row of floats may comprise at least one engagement element, the at least one lateral protrusion engaging the at least one engagement element.
The protrusions and engagement elements may fix the frame with respect to the floats in the longitudinal direction of the longitudinal frame element.
More in particular, the at least one engagement element may be provided in the at least one recess. In the recess, the float may be relatively strong, thereby forming a suitable position for the engagement element.
It is noted that the at least one engagement element and the at least one lateral protrusion may comprise mutually aligned through holes for receiving a latching pin. The latching pin may be used to affix the frame with respect to the floats in a relatively simple way. The latching pin may also be referred to as latching rod.
In particular, the frame may comprise lateral frame members which are provided with through holes aligning with the through holes of the at least one engagement element and the at least one lateral protrusion for receiving said latching pin. Accordingly, the lateral frame members may be connected to the floats and the rest of the frame. the lateral frame members may be connected to the longitudinal frame member by sliding the lateral frame members into sleeves attached to the longitudinal frame members. The sleeves may have through holes corresponding to that of the lateral frame members.
In the case bridge component is used, the at least one bridge component may comprise a through hole for receiving one of the at least one lateral frame member. The bridge part may be connected to the frame relatively easily using such a through hole.
In yet another embodiment of the floating structure, the mounting means may comprise a plurality of springs, configured to releasably connect the at least one float to the constructional element. The springs may be particularly useful for fixing and releasing floats to a frame.
In yet another embodiment of the floating structure, the mounting means may comprise a plurality of steel wires, configured to releasably connect the at least one float to the constructional element. The steel wires may be particularly useful for fixing and releasing floats to a frame.
The invention also relates to a container and a bridge component for use in a floating structure as described above.
Both said container and bridge component may comprise all the above described features, alone or in any suitable combination.
The invention also relates to a method of stabilizing a floating structure, for instance a floating structure as described above, the floating structure comprising at least one float comprising a container with an end surface and a circumferential wall, the container having an open end opposite the end surface, the end surface and circumferential wall being substantially airtight, the method comprising:

a) placing the floating structure in a body of water, with the open end of the at least one float towards the water, thereby trapping an amount of air in the container of each float;
b) increasing an amount of water in the container of the at least one float.

By increasing the amount of water in the container, a stabilized floating structure may be obtained.
There can be multiple ways of increasing the amount of water in the container. Firstly, a portion of the trapped air from the container may be removed or let out. Said portion can then be replaced by water, e.g. by allowing water to flow into the container.
In particular, step b) may be performed by temporarily increasing the air pressure in the container. By increasing the air pressure, for instance by doing so relatively abrubtly, a portion of air may be pushed out of the container. Then, as the pressure restores water may flow into the container in order to compensate for the receding pressure.
The pressure differential may be created by, possibly repeatedly, applying and releasing a downwards oriented force on the floating structure, thereby pushing the floating structure further into the water and releasing it.
This method allows for a relatively easy way to let air out of the containers. In particular, this method allows to determine if enough air has been let out, as the effects of letting out air can be felt or seen while applying and releasing the force. As such, a risk of letting out too much air is minimized.
In general, step b) may be performed by removing a portion of the trapped air from the container of the at least one float. Air may be removed via the open end, or via an outlet provided therefore. The removed air can be replaced by water.
It is likely waves will be created, at least to some extent by letting out air of the container. The applicant however has found that this does not detriment the effectiveness of the floating structure. In fact, the waves may aid in letting out air. This effect may be enhanced by using containers with a flexible wall and/or a relatively large internal angle, of greater than approximately 90°.
Another method of increasing an amount of water in the container, is by increasing the capacity of the container while it is in the water. This can for instance be done by extending the circumferential wall of the container, in a direction away from the end surface, i.e. further into the water. As such, the capacity of the container is increased. Since the extended part of the circumferential wall encompasses a portion of the water that is already filled, the total amount of water in the container can be increased.
The invention will be further elucidated with reference to the attached figures, wherein:

Figure 1 schematically shows a floating structure;
Figures 2 - 4B schematically show components and details of the floating structure of figure 1;
Figure 4C schematically shows an alternative embodiment of the floating structure of figures 1 - 4B.
Figures 5A - 5C schematically show how floating structures may be interconnected;
Figures 6A - 6B schematically show how floating structures may be disassembled for transport;
Figures 7A - 7D schematically show applications of floating structures;
Figures 8A - 8C schematically show another embodiment of a floating structure; and
Figures 9A - 9B schematically show an embodiment of a container;

Throughout the figures, like elements are referred to using like reference numerals. Like elements across different embodiments are referred to using reference numerals increased by one hundred (100). For the sake of clarity, not all details are shown in all figures.
Figure 1 shows a floating structure 1, which has a top 2 and a bottom 3. The floating structure 1 comprises a frame, which is a constructional element and has longitudinal beams 4 and transversal beams 5. The beams 4, 5 are manufactured from steel, but aluminium could also be a suitable material. The frame comprises mounting means, which will be described later. The mounting means mount a plurality of floats 6 to the frame.
Details of the floating structure 1 are now described with reference to figures 2 - 4C. Figure 2 shows a single float 6. The float 6 is comprised of a container 7 with an end surface 8 and a circumferential wall 9. The end surface 8 and the circumferential wall 9 are substantially airtight, since they are moulded out of a plastic. Known materials such as PE, PP, or PET could be used. The container 7 has an open end 10 opposite the end surface 8. The circumferential wall 9 is provided along its free end with a reinforcing edge 11.
As seen from the end surface 8 of the container 7, the circumferential wall 9 is tilted slightly outwards. As such, an internal angle α exceeds 90°. As such, multiple containers 7 can be stacked into each other, as will be shown later. The end surface 8 is provided with a series of ribs forming a corrugated structure 12 on the outside of the container 6. The corrugated structure 12 provides strength to the container, but also makes the end surface 8 less slippery. The container 7 has a recess 13 along an external edge of its end surface 8. The recess 13 is used, as will be explained below, to receive a longitudinal frame member, i.e. a longitudinal beam 4. The container 7 is provided with engagement elements 14, which consist out of a set of parallel flanges 15 along its recess 13. The flanges 15 comprise through holes 16.
The circumferential wall 9 of the container is made of plastic that is flexible, so that the circumferential wall 9 is deformable to a certain extent. As a result, when the container 6 is in the water, and is repeatedly pushed down or rocked, the circumferential wall 9 can deform slightly outwards and release some air from the container 6 therewith.
Figure 3 shows a bridge part 17 which can be placed between adjacent containers 7. The bridge part 17 has a first end surface 18 and a circumferential wall 19. As opposed to the container 7, the bridge part 17 has a second end surface 20, and therefore generally encloses a volume. The bridge part 17 has a general tapering shape corresponding to the internal angle α of the container 7. As such, an angle β between an end surface 18 and a circumferential wall 19 of the bridge part 17 is smaller than 90°. The bridge part 17 has the same corrugated surface 12 on its first end surface. The bridge part 17 is adapted to lie flush with the end surfaces 8 of two adjacent containers 7. The bridge part 17 is further provided with a through hole 21, which can be used to run a lateral frame member, i.e. a lateral beam 5 through the bridge part 17.
Figure 4A shows a row of containers 7 with bridge pieces 17 interposed. As shown, the recesses 13 of the containers 7 line up, so that a longitudinal beam 4 can extend through all the recesses 13. The through holes 16 in the flanges 15 of the engagement elements 14 are also aligned, in order to receive a latching pin 22. The free ends of the circumferential wall 9 of adjacent containers 7 are connected together via snap connecters 25. The snap connectors 25 receive the reinforcing edge 11 of two containers using a snap-fit connection. As such, the containers 7 are attached to each other at their open ends 10.
Figure 4B shows how longitudinal beams 4 extend through the recesses 13 of several containers 7. The longitudinal beams 4 are provided with protrusions 23 that protrude between the flanges 15 of engagement elements 14. As such, the protrusions prevent the containers 7 and the longitudinal beam 4 from moving with respect to each other in the longitudinal direction of the longitudinal beam 4. The protrusions 23 are provided with through holes that align with the through holes 16 in the flanges 15, so that the latching pin 22 can extend through the flanges 15 and the protrusions 23. As such, the latching pin 22 latches the containers 7 to the longitudinal beam 4. Further, lateral beams 5 are provided, which run through the through holes 21 in the bridge parts 17 and are connected to the longitudinal beams 4 via sleeves 24. The transversal beams 5 are also latched with respect to the longitudinal beams 4 by means of the latching pin 22.
As an example, the containers 7 of figure 4B are shown to have air outlets 26 in their circumferential walls 9. The air outlets 26 in this example comprise an opening fitted with a valve. Using the valve, air can be let out of the container 7 while it is afloat, allowing water to enter the container 7 via the open end.
Figure 4C shows the same as figure 4B, however the containers have now been provided with conduits 27 which run through the open ends 10 of respective containers 7. The conduits 27 open in the container 7 at their free ends 28, thereby forming an air outlet. Each conduit 27 is provided with a valve 29 which selectively opens or closes the conduit 27. The conduits 27 are connected to a manifold 30, which interconnects the conduits 27 of several containers 7. The manifold 30 is also connected to a passageway 31 that opens to the exterior. The passageway 31 can be selectively opened and closed with a separate valve 32. As a result, air can selectively be let out of one or more containers 7 via their conduits 27, the manifold 30 and the passageway 31 by operating the valves. When the valve 32 of the passageway 31 is closed, the interiors of the containers 7 may remain interconnected by opening the valves 29 of the containers 7.
The mechanisms described with respect to figures 4B and 4C can be used interchangeably in the above described floating structure. Combinations of the two mechanisms are also possible, in fact, the air outlets 26 of figure 4B may be interconnected via conduits. A separate passageway may be provided if desired.
Figure 5A shows a single floating structure 1 which has two rows 33 of floats 6. The rows 33 extend substantially parallel to each other at a distance from each other, both along an entire opposite edge of the floating structure 1. Longitudinal 4 and transversal 5 beams form a frame, which is further strengthened by cross tensioners 34. The end surfaces 8 of floats 6, and that of the bridge parts 17 together form a flush walkway. As shown in figures 5B and 5C multiple floating structures 1 can be connected together. In figure 5B two floating structures 1 are shown each comprising one row 33 of floats 6, and together sharing an additional row 33' of floats.
Accordingly, a larger floating construction can be made out of several floating structures 1.
Another method of interconnecting floating structures 1 is shown in figure 5C. Two floating structures 1 are shown to be rotated in plane by 90° degrees with respect to each other, so that their rows 33 of floats 6 are at a right angle with respect to each other. Accordingly, a relatively sturdy construction of multiple floating structures 1 can be made. Of course, more than two floating structures 1 may be attached to each other, for instance in any of the ways shown in figures 5B or 5C or in some other way.
Figures 6A and 6B each show a floating structure 1, 101 in assembled state 1, 101 and in disassembled state 1', 101'. As shown it is possible to stack the floats 6 in the disassembled state 1', 101', so that the floating structure 1', 101' is easily transportable. The floating structure 1, 101 may be assembled on site. As exhibited by figure 6B, the floating structure 1 of figure 6A can be upgraded by connecting more floats 6, in order to achieve a floating structure 101 with a larger buoyancy. In fact, the number of floats 6 can be suitably chosen.
Figure 7A shows several floating structures 1 that have been fitted with a support frame 35 upon which solar panels 36 are mounted. The solar panels 36 are mounted slightly titlted with respect to a horizontal plane. As can be seen, a single floating structure 1 spans several solar panels 36. A walkway 37 of the floating structure 1 is created by leaving the containers 6 along it free of solar panels 36. The floating structure 1 also offers space for transformers, drivers or the like 38, 39 for the solar panels 36.
Figure 7B shows several floating structures 1, the surfaces of which have been filled at least almost entirely with floats 6. As such, adjacent walkways 37 form a walkable area, which in this case is used as an event area, for e.g. concerts. The floating structures 1 have been provided with fencing 38 to prevent attendees 39 of the event from falling.
Figure 7C shows floating structures 1 on which a temporary building 40 has been placed. Accordingly, the floating structure 1 can be used for pop up events, such as fairs etc. The floating structure 1 could be combined with a floating container 41 in order to catch rainwater from a roof of the temporary building 40. The floating structures 1 also provide space for walking 42 surrounded by fencing 43.
Finally, figure 7D shows floating structures 1 used as a work platform. The floating structure 1 can accordingly be used to provide a platform, for example for a digger or excavator 44. A railing 45 is provided for safety of personnel.
Another embodiment of a floating structure 201 is shown in figures 8A - 8C. The floating structure 201 can be combined with the previously introduced concepts, and differ from those only in the following.
Firstly, the floats 206 of this floating structure 201 are not provided with the recesses 13 and corresponding engagement elements as described above. In stead, a the floats 206 are attached to a frame of longitudinal beams 204 and lateral beams 205, which are held together via a latching pin 222, via springs 246. The springs 246 are connected to a connecting element 247 attached to the free edge of the circumferential wall 209 of the container 206. The lateral beams 205 are provided with locking cams 248, behind which the springs 246 can be locked in place. As such, the floats 6 can be easily attached and detached from the frame 204, 205 by moving the springs 246 over the locking cams 248 as desired. As shown in detail in figure 8C, the floats 206 are connected together via mutually cooperating connecting elements 249, 250 at the free end of the circumferential wall 209 of the floats 206. The mutually cooperating connecting elements 249, 250 in the shown example comprise a sleeve-slot connection that prevents movement of the connecting elements 249, 250 with respect to each other in a directional perpendicular to a direction pointing from one float 206 to another.
Figures 9A and 9B show simplified cross sectional views of an expandable container 307 that can be used in the floating structure according to the invention. The container has an end wall 308 and a circumferential wall 309. The circumferential wall 309 includes an extendable section 309', which is shown in the collapsed state in figure 9A. The container 307 has a capacity corresponding to the total enclosed volume, indicated in the figures with 351 and 352. By extending the circumferential wall section 309', as is shown in figure 9B, the total capacity of the container can be increased. By extending the circumferential wall 309' of the container while the container is in the water, the amount of water held by the container can be increased, as is shown by the fact that a larger portion of the container 307 encompasses water below the water surface w.
Figures 9A and 9B also show a separating wall 350, which is optional to all containers described in this application. The separating wall 350 can be used to separate the container into a sealed off volume 351 and a volume connected to the open end 352. Accordingly, a certain amount of buoyancy can be guaranteed by the volume 351, whereas the other volume 352 can be filled with a desired amount of air and water.
Although the invention has been described hereabove with reference to a number of specific examples and embodiments, the invention is not limited thereto. Instead, the invention also covers the subject matter defined by the following numbered clauses, and by the claims.

Clauses

Clause 1. Floating structure, the floating structure having a top and a bottom opposite thereto, the floating structure comprising:

a constructional element comprising mounting means for mounting a plurality of floats; and
at least one float mounted to the constructional element by said mounting means, characterized in that

Clause 2. Floating structure according to clause 1, wherein the circumferential wall is deformable sufficiently to allow some air to escape the container when the floating structure is rocked and/or pushed down into the water.
Clause 3. Floating structure according to the previous clause, wherein the circumferential wall is made of a flexible material in order to achieve said deformation.
Clause 4. Floating structure according to any one or more of the preceding clauses, the at least one float comprising an air outlet debouching in the container of the respective float at a distance from the open end of said container.
Clause 5. Floating structure according to the previous clause, the at least one float comprising a conduit providing said air outlet, the conduit extending through the open end of the respective container to an exterior of said container.
Clause 6. Floating structure according to clause 4, the air outlet comprising an opening in the circumferential wall or the end surface.
Clause 7. Floating structure according to any one of clauses 4 - 6, comprising a plurality of said floats, wherein the interiors of some or all of the plurality of floats are interconnected to each other via their respective outlets and a manifold interconnecting said outlets.
Clause 8. Floating structure according to the previous clause, further comprising a valve connected to each outlet of each float, said valves being arranged to selectively allow and block a flow of air through the respective outlets.
Clause 9. Floating structure according to any one or more of clauses 4 - 8, wherein at least one of the air outlets is connected to the open air via a passageway comprising a valve for opening and closing said passageway.
Clause 10. Floating structure according to the previous clause and at least clause 7, the passageway connecting the manifold to the open air.
Clause 11. Floating structure according to any one or more of the preceding clauses, the container being expandable.
Clause 12. Floating structure according to the previous clause, wherein the circumferential wall of the container is extendable.
Clause 13. Floating structure according to any one or more of the preceding clauses, comprising multiple floats arranged in at least two rows of floats, the at least two rows being disposed substantially parallel to each other at a mutual distance.
Clause 14. Floating structure according to the previous clause, the at least two rows being provided along two opposite side edges of the floating structure.
Clause 15. Floating structure according to clause 13 or 14, the at least two rows extending along substantially the entirety of the floating structure.
Clause 16. Floating structure according to any one or more of the preceding clauses, the circumferential wall of each container enclosing an internal angle with the respective end surface that is larger than 90°.
Clause 17. Floating structure according to the previous clause, further comprising at least one bridge component arranged between two directly adjacent containers, the at least one bridge part having a tapering cross sectional shape so as to be form-fitted between the two directly adjacent containers.
Clause 18. Floating structure according to any one or more of the preceding clauses, the end surface of each container being provided with a plurality of ribs and/or protrusions on its outside.
Clause 19. Floating structure, according to at least clause 14, comprising at least one walkway over one of the rows of floats.
Clause 20. Floating structure according to any one or more of the preceding clauses, wherein containers lying directly adjacent to each other are fixed to each other at a free end of their respective circumferential walls.
Clause 21. Floating structure according to any one or more of the preceding clauses, comprising a frame comprising at least one longitudinal frame element as the constructional element, the floating structure having a row of floats, the container of each float comprising at least one recess along an external edge of the end surface of the respective container, said recesses of containers in said row being aligned in order to at least partially receive the at least one longitudinal frame member of the frame for connecting the container of each float in the row to the at least one longitudinal frame member.
Clause 22. Floating structure according to the previous clause, the at least one longitudinal frame member comprising at least one lateral protrusion and the container of each float in the row of floats comprising at least one engagement element, the at least one lateral protrusion engaging the at least one engagement element.
Clause 23. Floating structure according to the previous clause, the at least one engagement element being provided in the at least one recess.
Clause 24. Floating structure according to any one or more of clauses 22 - 23, the at least one engagement element and the at least one lateral protrusion comprising mutually aligned through holes for receiving a latching pin.
Clause 25. Floating structure according to the previous clause, the frame comprising lateral frame members provided with through holes aligning with the through holes of the at least one engagement element and the at least one lateral protrusion for receiving said latching pin.
Clause 26. Floating structure according to clause 23 and at least clause 17, the at least one bridge component comprising a through hole for receiving one of the at least one lateral frame member.
Clause 27. Floating structure according to any one or more of the preceding clauses, the mounting means comprising a plurality of springs or wires, possibly made from steel, configured to releasably connect the at least one float to the constructional element.
Clause 28. Container configured for use in a floating structure according to any one or more of the preceding clauses.
Clause 29. Bridge component configured for use in a floating structure according to any one or more of the preceding clauses.
Clause 30. Method of stabilizing a floating structure, for instance a floating structure according to any one of clauses 1 - 27, the floating structure comprising at least one float comprising a container with an end surface and a circumferential wall, the container having an open end opposite the end surface, the end surface and circumferential wall being substantially airtight, the method comprising:

Clause 31. Method according to the previous clause, wherein step b) comprises removing a portion of the trapped air from the container of the at least one float.
Clause 32. Method according to the previous clause, wherein step b) is performed by temporarily increasing the air pressure in the container.
Clause 33. Method according to the previous clause, wherein step b) is performed by, possibly repeatedly, applying and releasing a downwards oriented force on the floating structure, thereby pushing the floating structure further into the water and releasing it.
Clause 34. Method according to clause 30, wherein step b) comprises enlarging a capacity of the container while it is in the water.
Clause 35. Method according to the previous clause, wherein step b) comprises extending the circumferential wall in a direction away from the end surface.

Claims

Floating structure, the floating structure having a top and a bottom opposite thereto, the floating structure comprising:
- a constructional element comprising mounting means for mounting a plurality of floats; and

- at least one float mounted to the constructional element by said mounting means, characterized in that
the at least one float comprises a container with an end surface and a circumferential wall, the container having an open end opposite the end surface, the end surface and circumferential wall being substantially airtight, and the container being arranged with its open ends towards the bottom of the floating structure.
Floating structure according to claim 1, wherein the circumferential wall is deformable sufficiently to allow some air to escape the container when the floating structure is rocked and/or pushed down into the water wherein preferably the circumferential wall is made of a flexible material in order to achieve said deformation.
Floating structure according to any one or more of the preceding claims, the at least one float comprising an air outlet debouching in the container of the respective float at a distance from the open end of said container, wherein:
- the at least one float comprises a conduit providing said air outlet, the conduit extending through the open end of the respective container to an exterior of said container, or wherein

- the air outlet comprising an opening in the circumferential wall or the end surface.
Floating structure according to the previous claim, comprising a plurality of said floats, wherein the interiors of some or all of the plurality of floats are interconnected to each other via their respective outlets and a manifold interconnecting said outlets, preferably further comprising a valve connected to each outlet of each float, said valves being arranged to selectively allow and block a flow of air through the respective outlets.
Floating structure according to any one or more of claims 3 - 4, wherein at least one of the air outlets is connected to the open air via a passageway comprising a valve for opening and closing said passageway, the passageway preferably connecting the manifold to the open air.
Floating structure according to any one or more of the preceding claims, the container being expandable, wherein preferably the circumferential wall of the container is extendable.
Floating structure according to any one or more of the preceding claims, comprising multiple floats arranged in at least two rows of floats, the at least two rows being disposed substantially parallel to each other at a mutual distance, the at least two rows preferably being provided along two opposite side edges of the floating structure, in particular wherein, the at least two rows extend along substantially the entirety of the floating structure.
Floating structure according to any one or more of the preceding claims, the circumferential wall of each container enclosing an internal angle with the respective end surface that is larger than 90°, preferably further comprising at least one bridge component arranged between two directly adjacent containers, the at least one bridge part having a tapering cross sectional shape so as to be form-fitted between the two directly adjacent containers.
Floating structure according to any one or more of the preceding claims, the end surface of each container being provided with a plurality of ribs and/or protrusions on its outside.
Floating structure, according to at least claim 7 having the at least two rows provided along two opposite side edges, comprising at least one walkway over one of the rows of floats.
Floating structure according to any one or more of the preceding claims, wherein containers lying directly adjacent to each other are fixed to each other at a free end of their respective circumferential walls.
Floating structure according to any one or more of the preceding claims, comprising a frame comprising at least one longitudinal frame element as the constructional element, the floating structure having a row of floats, the container of each float comprising at least one recess along an external edge of the end surface of the respective container, said recesses of containers in said row being aligned in order to at least partially receive the at least one longitudinal frame member of the frame for connecting the container of each float in the row to the at least one longitudinal frame member, the at least one longitudinal frame member preferably comprising at least one lateral protrusion and the container of each float in the row of floats comprising at least one engagement element, the at least one lateral protrusion engaging the at least one engagement element, wherein: the at least one engagement element is provided in the at least one recess and/or the at least one engagement element and the at least one lateral protrusion comprising mutually aligned through holes for receiving a latching pin, , the frame preferably comprising lateral frame members provided with through holes aligning with the through holes of the at least one engagement element and the at least one lateral protrusion for receiving said latching pin.
Floating structure according to any one or more of the preceding claims, the mounting means comprising a plurality of springs or wires, possibly made from steel, configured to releasably connect the at least one float to the constructional element.
Container or bridge component configured for use in a floating structure according to any one or more of the preceding claims.
Method of stabilizing a floating structure, for instance a floating structure according to any one of claims 1 - 14, the floating structure comprising at least one float comprising a container with an end surface and a circumferential wall, the container having an open end opposite the end surface, the end surface and circumferential wall being substantially airtight, the method comprising:
a) placing the floating structure in a body of water, with the open end of the at least one float towards the water, thereby trapping an amount of air in the container of each float;

b) increasing an amount of water in the container of the at least one float, wherein step b) optionally comprises:
- removing a portion of the trapped air from the container of the at least one float, preferably by temporarily increasing the air pressure in the container, preferably by, possibly repeatedly, applying and releasing a downwards oriented force on the floating structure, thereby pushing the floating structure further into the water and releasing it, or

- enlarging a capacity of the container while it is in the water, preferably comprising extending the circumferential wall in a direction away from the end surface.