NL2032416B1

NL2032416B1 - Pontoon with removable hydrodynamic element

Info

Publication number: NL2032416B1
Application number: NL2032416A
Authority: NL
Inventors: Jeroen Koppes Fabian; Hendricus Johannes Van Poppelen Maarten; Pieter Van Hoeken Allard
Original assignee: Oceans Of Energy B V
Priority date: 2022-07-07
Filing date: 2022-07-07
Publication date: 2024-01-23

Abstract

A method is provided for positioning a pontoon on a body of water, the pontoon comprising a ﬂoater body, and the method comprising the steps of attaching a temporary hydrodynamic element to the ﬂoater body, transporting the pontoon over the body of water to a desired position on the body of water and removing the temporary hydrodynamic element from the ﬂoater body.

Description

P129595NL00

Title: Pontoon with removable hydrodynamic element

TECHNICAL FIELD

The aspect and embodiments thereof relate to pontoons with a temporary removable hydrodynamic element.

BACKGROUND

Pontoons are provided as floating platforms for, for example, photovoltaic panels, aquaculture, or any other application that requires a platform on a body of water. For positioning a pontoon on a body of water, an auxiliary vessel such as a towing vessel or pushing boat may be used, since a pontoon 1s typically not provided with propulsion means.

WO2019103609A1 discloses a network of pontoons, interconnected with connection modules. The pontoons are arranged for carrying photovoltaic panels, which can be conveniently used at sea.

SUMMARY

It has been observed that a relatively low speed has to be used for transporting pontoons over a body of water. If the speed is too high, the front of the pontoon facing the direction of movement may sink into the water or may be dragged under water, and/or water may flow over the pontoon. It is also observed that, in order to reduce costs and/or make manufacturing convenient, hydrodynamic properties of a pontoon may be taken into account less compared to those of more complex and expensive ships and boats.

It is preferred to improve hydrodynamic properties of pontoons, preferably while maintaining the cost and/or manufacturing advantages of using pontoons over boats or ships which typically have better hydrodynamic properties than pontoons.

A first aspect provides a method for positioning a pontoon on a body of water, the pontoon comprising a floater body, and the method comprising the steps of attaching a temporary hydrodynamic element to the floater body, transporting the pontoon over the body of water to a desired position on the body of water and removing the temporary hydrodynamic element from the floater body, in particular in this order. The method allows for temporarily improving hydrodynamic properties of the pontoon, in particular while maintaining the cost and/or manufacturing advantages of using pontoons over boats or ships.

The floater body of a pontoon may be approximately rectangular shaped. This shape may for example allow convenient connection of multiple pontoons into an array of pontoons. Furthermore, manufacturing of an approximately rectangular floater body may be more economic and/or fast compared to more complexly shaped floater bodies, which complex shaped floater bodies may have better hydrodynamic properties. For example, a rectangular shaped floater body may have a rectangular structural frame comprising interconnected beams. The beams may in particular be flanged beams, for example at least partially with a C-shaped, H-shaped, I-shaped,

U-shaped, L-shaped, T-shaped, or otherwise flanged shaped cross-section.

The present disclosure is however not limited to rectangular shaped floater bodies. Floater bodies may have any shape, in particular an approximately rectangular shape with one or more bevelled and/or rounded edges, an approximately cylindrical shape, or any other shape. In a top plan view, the shape of the floater body may be approximately resembling a triangle, pentagon, octagon or any other shape or polygon.

The floater body of the pontoon typically provides a working surface, which in use may be oriented approximately horizontally on the body of water. Side surfaces of the floater body may be oriented at an angle relative to the working surfaces, for example between 80 and 100 degrees, or substantially perpendicular.

When the pontoon is a floating solar energy system, in and/or on the floater body, in particular on the working surface, one or more photovoltaic (PV) panels, arranged to convert solar energy to electrical energy, converters, control circuitry, batteries, other components to collect, handle and store electrical energy generated by the photovoltaic panels, or a combination thereof may be positioned.

Pontoons which are or form part of a floating solar energy system may be required to remain on the body of water for a long time, for example multiple years, over 10 years or even 20 years or more, for example without significantly changing position. As such, after the pontoon has been positioned on the body of water, hydrodynamic properties of the pontoon may become less relevant or even irrelevant. The floating solar energy system may for example be held in place using one or more anchors.

Any pontoon may also be used to suspend fish farm cages, mussel farming equipment or other forms of aquaculture underneath each pontoon.

This may be combined with providing solar panels to form a floating solar energy system.

In general, a hydrodynamic element is any element which when connected to the floater body or at least in use positioned in front of the floater body increases at least one hydrodynamic property of the floater body.

Examples of hydrodynamic properties are the drag coefficient of the floater body, how the floater body is affected by external influences such as waves and currents, and the ability of the floater body to maintain or control a preferred orientation, course and/or heading.

Examples of hydrodynamic elements are a bow, a keel, a skeg, and a rudder. In use, a bow faces the direction of movement of the floater body.

The bow prevents or at least reduces that a side of the floater body facing in the direction of movement is pulled or pushed further into the water, and/or prevents or reduces water from splashing over the side of the floater body facing in the direction of movement. A bow may add buoyancy to a side of the floater body, and/or may reduce heaving, pitching, and/or or any other undesired motion of the floater body, especially when the floater body is transported over a body of water.

A body of water may be any river, lake, sea, ocean, man-made or naturally present, or any other body of water.

In particular, the hydrodynamic element may be a bow. Without a bow, the floater body may dive with the front side into the water reducing its speed significantly, and increasing drag and/or water overflow. A bow is typically only provided on one side of a boat or ship, in particular a front side in use. Hence, it results in an asymmetric design. However, a symmetric design may be preferred for a floater body of a pontoon, in particular when pontoons are connected in an array of pontoons. When pontoons are connected in an array, it may be preferred that all sides of the pontoons are accessible for connecting adjacent pontoons to.

When a higher speed can be used for transporting the pontoon over the body of water, for example by virtue of a temporary hydrodynamic element, the time required for transporting the pontoon to a preferred location may be reduced.

In general, a bow comprises a surface which is in use at least partially submerged in water, and is oriented at an angle relative to the surface of the water, for example at an angle less than 80, 70, 60, 40 or less or even 30 or less degrees. This surface may be comprised by a bow body.

The surface may be a flat or curved surface, for example a convex surface, or a plurality of connected surfaces. Connected surfaces may be connected to each other under a particular angle.

As an option, the hydrodynamic element is attached to the floater body on land, for example before the pontoon is put into the body of water.

This may allow more convenient attachment of the hydrodynamic element.

Alternatively, the hydrodynamic element may be attached to the floater body while the pontoon is already present on the body of water.

In general, the hydrodynamic element may have a density and volume such that hydrodynamic element can float on a body of water by itself.

As such, the hydrodynamic element is not dependent on the buoyancy of for example a pontoon to float. Alternatively, the hydrodynamic element may 5 have a density and volume such that the hydrodynamic element would sink by itself, which however would allow for more freedom for example with regards to which materials can be used for the hydrodynamic element.

When the hydrodynamic element is removed from a first pontoon, it may be attached to a floater body of a further pontoon. As such, a single hydrodynamic element may be used for more than one pontoon.

The removing of the hydrodynamic element may be non-destructive for at least one of the floater body and the hydrodynamic element itself. For example, one or more bolts and nuts may be used for connecting the hydrodynamic element to mounting holes of the floater body. Alternatively, other non-destructive connections using one or more clamps, ropes, cables, straps, tension straps, form-fitting closures, one or more pins falling into one or more holes, or any other non-destructive connection element may be used.

Mounting holes may in particular be provided in one or more flanged beams of a floater body, for example mounting holes through one or more of one or more flanges comprised by said flanged beam or flanged beams.

Non-destructive for the floater body may imply that the hydrodynamic element may be connected to the floater body again, for example in the same or similar manner. Non-destructive for the hydrodynamic element may imply that the hydrodynamic element may be connected to a further pontoon. A connection element may be reusable, such as a bolt and a nut, or may be non-reusable, such as a tie-wrap which has to be cut to be released.

In particular when the temporary hydrodynamic element is a floating temporary hydrodynamic element, the method according to the first aspect may further comprise positioning the floating temporary hydrodynamic element in front of the pontoon relative to a direction of movement towards the desired location, such that during the transporting of the pontoon over the body of water to the desired position on the body of water, the floating temporary hydrodynamic element generally remains in front of the pontoon.

When it is desired to position multiple pontoons on the body of water, the method may comprise attaching a further pontoon to the pontoon to which the temporary hydrodynamic element is attached. In particular, the further pontoon may in use be positioned behind the pontoon to which the hydrodynamic element is connected. As such, the benefits of using the hydrodynamic element may be extended also to the further pontoon. It will be understood that also more than two pontoons may be connected behind one another.

A second aspect provides a method for positioning a plurality of pontoons onto a body of water in an array, comprising the steps of: positioning the plurality of pontoons on desired positions on the body of water, in particular using a boat, prior to positioning at least one pontoon in the plurality of pontoons on its respective desired position, connecting a temporary hydrodynamic element to the at least one pontoon, after positioning the at least one pontoon with the temporary hydrodynamic element connected on the desired position, and removing the temporary hydrodynamic element.

As a particular option, adjacent pontoons may be connected at or near their respective desired positions to form the array of pontoons.

Alternatively, adjacent pontoons may be interconnected prior to being positioned on their respective desired positions and/or prior to connecting the hydrodynamic element to the at least one pontoon.

The connecting of adjacent pontoons to form the array of pontoons may be performed at or near the desired positions of the pontoons forming the array, or prior to the pontoons forming the array being transported over the body of water to the desired positions, or even while transporting the pontoons over the body of water to the desired positions.

The desired position may correspond to the desired position of the pontoon in the array, or any other position for example in the vicinity of the array. For example, the hydrodynamic element may already be removed when the pontoon is near the array, and the final positioning of the pontoon into the array may be performed with the temporary hydrodynamic element already removed.

By being removable, the hydrodynamic element may not contribute to the footprint of the pontoon after the pontoon has been positioned on the body of water. This may allow for more efficient use of the surface area available on body of water, especially when pontoons are interconnected into an array. Furthermore, no design change in the floater body may be required to accommodate the hydrodynamic element, in particular the bow. The hydrodynamic element may be retrofitted onto existing pontoon designs.

Preferably, the hydrodynamic element is not connected to the working surface of the pontoon and/or does not block or restrict access to the working surface when connected to the pontoon.

A third aspect provides a pontoon, for example for carrying one or more PV panels, comprising a floater body, a temporary hydrodynamic element connected to the floater body, wherein the hydrodynamic element is removably connected to the floater body.

The hydrodynamic element may be a bow, at least partially covering a side of the floater body. The hydrodynamic element may be non- destructively removably connected to the floater body. The pontoon according to the third aspect may be positioned on a body of water using any method according to the first aspect. Options disclosed in conjunction with the first and/or second aspect may be readily applied to pontoons of the third aspect, for example regarding the shape and/or structure of the pontoon, the type of hydrodynamic element, and/or how to connect the hydrodynamic element to the pontoon, in any combination thereof.

A pontoon may comprise one or more connection points for connecting a pontoon connection member for connection with adjacent pontoons in an array. A connection point may be embodied as or may comprise one or more hole, one or more through-holes, any receptacle for receiving part of a pontoon connection member, any other means for connecting a pontoon connection member to. The connection between a pontoon and a pontoon connection member may or may not be removable, and may optionally be non- destructively removable.

A fourth aspect provides a bow as a hydrodynamic element, arranged for temporary connection with a pontoon. The bow may be embodied with any combination of options disclosed herein, and may be removably connected or connectable to any embodiment of a pontoon.

More in general, the fourth aspect provides a temporary hydrodynamic element, which may be used in any method according the first and/or second aspect, in any pontoon according to the third and/or fifth aspect, any array of pontoons according to the seventh aspect, any kit of parts according to the eight aspect, any method according to the ninth aspect, and/or any method according to the tenth aspect. Any temporary hydrodynamic element disclosed herein may be a floatable hydrodynamic element.

Embodiments of the kit of parts are further envisioned comprising one or more outer perimeter connector and/or one or more further outer perimeter connectors as disclosed herein.

A fifth aspect provides another example of a pontoon for carrying one or more photovoltaic panels, the pontoon comprising a floater body and a bollard connected to the pontoon and comprising a bollard post. When at least part of the bollard, in particular at least part or even the entire bollard post, is positioned alongside the pontoon, more space may be available for carrying photovoltaic panels compared to using a conventional bollard which extends vertically from the pontoon. In use, when regarded in a top plan view, the bollard post may be positioned outside the floater body, i.e. in the top plan view the bollard post or at least part thereof does not overlap with the floater body.

When the floater body comprises a structural frame comprising flanged beams, the bollard may be connected to the structural frame, for example via a bollard frame comprised by the bollard.

As a particular option, the bollard may be connected or connectable to a connection point of the pontoon. This connection point may be similarly shaped or designed than a connection point for interconnecting the pontoon with another pontoon, for example using one or more pontoon connection members.

A sixth aspect provides for a bollard for a pontoon or hydrodynamic element, in particular for a pontoon according to the fifth aspect. The bollard comprises a bollard post and a bollard frame for connecting the bollard post to the pontoon or hydrodynamic element. When at least part of the bollard frame is positioned alongside the bollard post, the bollard may be connected to the pontoon or hydrodynamic element such that at least part of the bollard 1s positioned alongside the pontoon. It will be understood that the bollard may be regarded as a technically separate concept from the removable hydrodynamic element.

A seventh aspect provides an array of pontoons comprising a plurality of pontoons, for example comprising at least one pontoon according to the third or fifth aspect. The array of pontoons further comprises at least one temporary hydrodynamic element connected to at least one pontoon of the plurality of pontoons. An array of pontoons may for example comprise at least four, at least eight, or even at least twelve pontoons. Arrays are even envisioned comprising twenty or more pontoons.

In general, pontoons in the plurality of pontoons may be similarly sized or even identically sized. As such, a modular array may be obtained which may more convenient during assembly of the array.

When at least one dimension, in particular a width, of the temporary hydrodynamic element corresponds to at least one dimension, in particular a width, of at least one of the pontoons of the plurality of pontoons, a more modular array may be obtained.

In general, pontoons of the plurality of pontoons may be interconnected by one or more pontoon connection members.

Any embodiment of the array of pontoons may comprise a plurality of temporary hydrodynamic elements, which as a further option may be interconnected hydrodynamic elements.

When an array of pontoons comprises one or more temporary hydrodynamic elements, at least one of the temporary hydrodynamic elements may be connected to at least one of the pontoons via another one of the temporary hydrodynamic elements. It will thus be understood that not necessarily every hydrodynamic element has to be directly connected to a pontoon.

When embodiments of the array of pontoons comprise at least two pontoon connection members, a first pontoon connection member may be designed to connect two pontoons, and a second pontoon connection member may be designed to connect at least one pontoon and at least one temporary hydrodynamic element and/or to connect two temporary hydrodynamic elements. In particular, these two pontoon connection members are designed to be substituted by one another.

At least two pontoons forming part of an outer perimeter of the array may be connected by an outer perimeter connector comprised by the array of pontoons. An outer perimeter connector may connect pontoons at or near side faces of said pontoons. As a particular option, all pontoons forming the outer perimeter of the array are interconnected using outer perimeter connectors.

At least one of the pontoons and at least one of the temporary hydrodynamic elements may be provided with a connection point designed to have a same pontoon connection member connected thereto. In general, a connection point may be designed to connect a connection member as well as an outer perimeter connector to.

When the array of pontoon comprises at least two pontoons and at least one hydrodynamic element, the array may comprise a further outer perimeter connector, which further outer perimeter connector interconnects at least two pontoons and at least one temporary hydrodynamic element.

The further outer perimeter connector may comprise a generally L- shaped body, in particular in use in a top view. The outer shape of the further outer perimeter connector may be differently shaped than an L-shape, but also in these cases the further outer perimeter connector may comprise a generally L-shaped body.

When an array of pontoons comprises at least two hydrodynamic elements, two hydrodynamic elements may be positioned such that a spacing 1s present between the two hydrodynamic elements, in particular wherein a size of the spacing generally corresponds to a size of a temporary hydrodynamic element and/or the spacing is sized to accommodate at least part of a watercraft such as a boat. As such, personnel may board the array of pontoons via a side of the watercraft and via at least one of the hydrodynamic elements. In use, a working surface or top surface of the pontoons may be occupied by photovoltaic panels, making it difficult or even impossible to board the array via one of these pontoons. Using at least one of the hydrodynamic elements to board the array may provide for a more convenient way of boarding the array for personnel.

An eight aspect provides a kit of part for forming an array of pontoons, for example an array according to the seventh aspect. The kit of parts comprises a plurality of pontoons, for example according to the third of fifth aspect. The kit of parts further comprises one or more hydrodynamic elements and a plurality of pontoon connection members.

Preferably, the pontoon connection members are arranged for at least two of interconnecting at least two pontoons, interconnecting at least two hydrodynamic elements, and connecting a hydrodynamic element to a pontoon. Pontoons and hydrodynamic elements with suitable connection points for connecting said pontoon connection members to are envisioned as well, in particular in conjunction with the third, fourth and fifth aspect.

A ninth aspect provides a method of forming an array of hydrodynamic elements, such as bows. The method comprises steps of disconnecting a plurality of temporary hydrodynamic elements from one or more pontoons, in particular from one or more pontoons comprised by an array of pontoons floating on a body of water, and interconnecting the plurality of temporary hydrodynamic elements to form the array of hydrodynamic elements. In use, the array of hydrodynamic elements may be used to store materials on, for personnel to stand on, or any other use. The hydrodynamic elements thus preferably provide a working surface, and an array of hydrodynamic elements provides for a larger working surface compared to a single hydrodynamic element. The array of hydrodynamic elements may be used in the vicinity of an array of pontoons. Conveniently, the hydrodynamic elements were previously connected to pontoons of the array of pontoons, and are thus already present in the vicinity of the array of pontoons.

Any of the hydrodynamic elements disclosed herein, but in particular any floating hydrodynamic element, may be used to dock a watercraft at when the hydrodynamic element is connected to a pontoon or array of pontoons, when the hydrodynamic element is provided as a single hydrodynamic element or in an array of hydrodynamic elements. As such, a tenth aspect provides a method of docking a watercraft at an array of pontoons, the array of pontoons comprising a plurality of pontoons and at least one hydrodynamic element, the method comprising docking the watercraft adjacent to the hydrodynamic element of the array of pontoons.

As a particular option, the watercraft may be docked in a spacing in-between two hydrodynamic elements. A size of the spacing may generally corresponds to a size of a temporary hydrodynamic element and/or the spacing 1s sized to accommodate at least part of a watercraft such as a boat.

The spacing may be provided by disconnecting one or more temporary hydrodynamic elements from the array of pontoons.

It will be appreciated that different options disclosed in conjunction with one aspect may be readily applied to embodiments of the other aspects.

For example, option disclosed for a pontoon in a method may be applied to any embodiment of the pontoon itself, and options disclosed in conjunction with the pontoon may be applied to any embodiment of the method. Options disclosed in conjunction with a pontoon and/or hydrodynamic element may be applied to an array of pontoons and/or array of hydrodynamic elements.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

In the figures:

Fig. 1A schematically depicts a typical rectangular shaped pontoon;

Fig. 1B schematically depicts in a side view an embodiment of the pontoon with a bow;

Fig. 1C shows a schematic exploded side view of the pontoon and the bow;

Fig. 2A depicts another embodiment of a pontoon in a perspective view;

Fig. 2B depicts the pontoon of Fig. 2A with a bow;

Fig. 2C shows a detailed side view of the pontoon of Fig. 2B;

Figs. 3A and 3B show an embodiment of a bow respectively in a side view and a perspective view;

Fig. 4A depicts in a schematic top plan view an array of pontoons;

Fig. 4B schematically depicts the array during a method for positioning a plurality of pontoons onto a body of water in an array;

Fig. 5A shows in a schematic top view an example of an array of pontoons with a hydrodynamic element;

Fig. 5B shows in a schematic top view another example of an array of pontoons with a hydrodynamic element;

Fig. 6A shows in a schematic top view yet another example of an array of pontoons;

Fig. 6B shows an array of two bows;

Fig. 6C shows an array of four bows;

Fig. 7 shows the array of pontoons of Fig. 6A, with a number of bows removed;

Fig. 8A shows a schematic cross-section of two pontoons;

Fig. 8B shows a schematic cross-section of an embodiment of a pontoon with a bollard;

Fig. 8C schematically depicts the cross-section of the pontoon or bow of Fig. 8A, with another embodiment of a bollard;

Fig. 9 shows in an isometric view an example of a bollard;

Fig. 10A shows a top view of the bollard of Fig. 9;

Fig. 10B shows a side view of the bollard of Fig. 9; and

Fig. 10C shows a front view of the bollard of Fig. 9.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Fig. 1A schematically depicts a typical rectangular shaped pontoon 100. The pontoon 100 comprises a floater body 101 providing a working surface 102. The floater body 101 furthermore has four side faces 103, of which two are visible in Fig. 1A. The side faces 103 are substantially perpendicular to the working surface 102, which working surface 102 in use is oriented substantially horizontally or generally parallel to a water surface of a body of water on which the pontoon 100 is floating.

The pontoon 100 may be arranged to be used as a part of an array of pontoons. In such an array of pontoons, adjacent pontoons may be connected to each other using connection members. For connecting a connection member to a pontoon, the pontoon 100 may comprise any number of connection points 105. For example, one or more or each side face 103 of the pontoon 100 may be provided with one or more connection points 105 for connecting a pontoon connection member to.

When comparing a single pontoon with a particular working surface and a plurality of smaller interconnected pontoons which together provide the same working surface, it may be preferred to use the plurality of smaller interconnected pontoons as the connection members used to connected the pontoons may provide additional degrees of freedom between connected pontoons. These degrees of freedom may allow the array of pontoons to be able to withstand more harsh environments, for example higher waves and/or higher wind speed, compared to a single stiff pontoon.

Fig. 1B schematically depicts in a side view an embodiment of the pontoon 100, provided with a temporary bow 200. The pontoon 100 is depicted floating on a body of water 300. In particular, the pontoon 100 is depicted in a moving state moving in a direction depicted by arrow 302. For example, the pontoon 100 may be towed or pushed in this direction by a boat or ship.

In particular, the bow 200 is positioned in front of one of the side faces 103’, which in use may thus be a front face. The bow 200 may thus restrict access to one of the connection points 105. When the bow 200 is removed, the connection point 105 may be accessed again, for example for connecting another pontoon to. In general, whenever in the figures a bow is referred to, any other type of hydrodynamic element instead of or additional to the bow is also envisioned. It will be understood that also embodiments of pontoons with a bow connected thereto are envisioned wherein all connection points 105 remain accessible also with the bow connected.

As can be seen in Fig. 1B, the footprint of the pontoon 100 has increased due to the bow 200. By being able to remove the bow 200 after the pontoon 100 has been positioned on the body of water, the footprint of the pontoon 100 is decreased to its original size. This may allow for more pontoons to fit on a particular area of the body of water compared to a situation wherein the bow would not be removable. Typically, the top surface of the bow 200 may not be suitable as a useful working surface, for example for positioning one or more PV-panels on.

Fig. 1C shows, in a schematic exploded side view, the floater body 101 of the pontoon 100, a bow body 202 providing a bow surface, and a connection arm 204 for connecting the bow body 202 to the floater body 101.

One or more connection arms 204 may be used for connecting the bow body 202 to the floater body 101, either directly or via an additional connection member. By virtue of a connection arm, the bow body 202 may be positioned at a distance from the floater body 101. In general, it will be understood that whenever in the present disclosure a connection arm is referred to, also any other type of connection for connecting a bow to a pontoon may be used instead of or as an addition to said connection arm.

Fig. 2A depicts another embodiment of a pontoon 100 in a perspective view. Fig. 2B depicts the pontoon 100 of Fig. 2A with a bow 200 as a temporary hydrodynamic element connected to the front of the pontoon 100 — i.e. the side of the pontoon 100 facing in an intended direction of movement of the pontoon 100 over a body of water. Fig. 2C shows a detailed side view of the pontoon of Fig. 2B, focussed on the front of the pontoon and the bow 200.

Embodiments of the pontoon 100, for example depicted in Figs. 2A- 2C but also other embodiments disclosed herein, may comprise a number of interconnected flanged beams 110, which form a structural frame of the pontoon 100. In general, a flanged beam comprises an elongated beam body and at least one flange protruding away from the beam body, in particular towards a volume defined between the beams in which for example floating material may be present for providing buoyancy to the pontoon 100. A flanged beam for example has an I-shaped, H-shaped, U-shaped, L-shaped, T-shaped, or C-shaped cross-section.

In the example of Figs. 2A-2C, a beam 110 on the front side of the pontoon 100 to which the bow 200 is connected has a generally I-shaped cross- section. As an option, the bow 200 comprises a cut-out portion 210, a shape of which generally correspond to the cross-sectional shape of at least part of a beam of the pontoon 100.

In use, when temporary attaching the bow 200 to the pontoon 100, the cut-out portion 210 may mate with a flanged beam of the pontoon 100.

The mating may restrict or prevent movement of the bow 200 relative to the pontoon 100, for some or all translations and rotations of the bow relative to the pontoon.

In general, in use, the bow body 202 may extend below the floater body 101 and/or above the floater body 101. For example, the bow body 202 shown in Fig. 2C extends below and above the floater body 101. The portion of the bow body 202 below the floater body 101 may for example increase hydrodynamic properties of the pontoon. The portion of the bow body 202 above the floater body 101 may for example prevent or reduce waves from reaching the top surface of the floater body.

Figs. 3A and 3B show an embodiment of a bow 200 respectively in a side view and a perspective view. The bow 200 comprises the bow body 202 and two optional connection plates 206 for connecting the bow body 202 to a pontoon 100. Optional side plates 208 are used to connect or fixate the connection plates 206 to the bow body 202. The bow body 202 may be positioned at a distance from the pontoon 100, by virtue of the connection plates 206 or other connecting element connecting the pontoon 100 and the bow body 202, as shown for example in Fig. 2C.

As a particular option, depicted in Figs. 3A and 3B but also applicable to other embodiments of a hydrodynamic element, the bow 200 comprises a cut-out 210 arranged to mate with part of the pontoon 100. The cut-out 210 may be shaped generally complementary to part of the pontoon 100, for example to part of a flanged beam of a pontoon 100.

As an even further option, additionally or alternatively to the cut- out 210, the bow 200 may comprise one or more incisions 212. In the embodiment of Figs. 3A and 3B, for example, each connection plate 206 is provided with an incision 212. The incision 212 may be positioned in a cut- out 210.

Any incision may be as an option generally parallel to the working surface 102 of the pontoon 100 in use, and/or at an angle relative to the bow body 202. Any incision may as a further option be tapered, for example tapered towards or away from the bow body 202. By virtue of an incision, the shape of the bow 200, in particular of the connection plates 206, may be manipulated. When an incision is positioned in a cut-out, by virtue of such an incision, the shape of the cut-out may be manipulated.

The bow, in particular the connection plates 206, may comprise one or more stiff materials, such as metals, for example steel, or one or more polymers, in particular thermosetting polymers. The incision may allow elastic deformation of the shape of the bow 200, in particular of the connection plates 206 and even more in particular of the cut-out 210.

For example, as depicted in Fig. 3A, by virtue of incision 212, a distance between a top surface 214 and a bottom surface 216 of the cut-out 210 may be manipulated. For example, this distance may be increased or decreased. As such, the connection plate 206 may for example be clamped onto a flanged beam, for example an I-shaped beam, of a pontoon.

Fig. 4A depicts in a schematic top plan view an array of pontoons 400 floating on a body of water. The array 400 comprises a plurality of pontoons 100 connected to each other using pontoon connection members 402.

The pontoon is for example provided with PV panels, and the array forms a floating solar farm. The pontoon connection members 402 are used to restrict one or more degrees of freedom of two pontoons which are connected relative to each other. The pontoon connection members 402 may allow some movement of the pontoons relative to each other to increase resilience of the array against outside forces for example caused by waves.

Fig. 4B schematically depicts the array 400 during a method for positioning a plurality of pontoons onto a body of water in an array. One particular pontoon 100’ is being placed into a desired position, for example using a tugging boat.

In this particular example, two connection arms 204 and a bow body 202 comprised by a bow 200 are used for connecting the bow to pontoon 100’. Prior to connecting the pontoon 100’ to adjacent pontoons 100” and 100”, the bow body 202 has to be disconnected or removed from pontoon 100’.

Without disconnecting the bow 200, the pontoon 100° may otherwise not fit into the array 400, and/or connecting a pontoon connection member 402 may not be possible if the bow 200 is in the way.

Although in Figs. 4A and 4B the pontoons are rectangular and are interconnected approximately at the centre of the sides, many different configurations of arrays and shapes of pontoons are envisioned. Pontoon connection members 402 may for example be connected at or near corners of the pontoons.

Fig. 5A shows in a schematic top view an example of an array 400 of pontoons comprising two pontoons 100° 100” being transported over a body of water in a moving direction depicted with arrow 302. In front of the front pontoon 100°, a bow 200 with a bow body 202 is positioned. The bow 200 is in this particular example removably connected to the front pontoon 100’. When the bow 200, the front pontoon 100’, and the rear pontoon 100” are generally positioned on a line parallel to the moving direction 302, the bow 200 may improve hydrodynamic behaviour of both pontoons 100’ 100”.

Fig. 5B shows in a schematic top view another example of an array 400 of pontoons. The array 400 comprises four pontoons 100, 100’, 100”, and 100”. In the example of Fig. 5B, the pontoons are arranged in a 2x2 array. It will be understood that in general, any array disclosed herein may comprise any number of pontoons, with any number of rows, any number of columns, in any combination thereof. The array may have an equal number of pontoons per row and column, or may have more pontoons in a direction parallel to the moving direction 302 than in a direction perpendicular to the moving direction 302, or may even have less pontoons in a direction parallel to the moving direction 302 than in a direction perpendicular to the moving direction 302.

In the example of Fig. 5B, a single bow 200 is used to improve hydrodynamic properties of at least some of the pontoons 100 in the array 400 of pontoons. For example, the bow body 202 may span a width which is larger than the width of a single pontoon, wherein the width is generally defined perpendicular to the moving direction 302. As a further option depicted in

Fig. 5B, the bow 200 may be generally positioned in the middle of the width of the array 400.

Fig. 6A shows in a schematic top view yet another example of an array 400 of pontoons. This particular array comprises ten pontoons 100, but options disclosed in conjunction with this figure may be readily applied to arrays with different numbers of arrays. Also options disclosed in conjunction with other figures may be readily applied to other embodiments of arrays of pontoons.

In the example of Fig. 6A, five bows 200 are positioned in front of the pontoons 100, in particular one bow per column of pontoons 100. Instead of five bows 200, conceivably the array may comprise more or less than five bows 200. For example, in case the array comprises less than five bows 200, a width of at least one of the bows may be larger than a width of at least one of the pontoons. Generally, applicable to any embodiment of the array, all of the pontoons, at least a majority, or at least 75% or more of the pontoons 100 of the array are similarly sized or even identically sized. Pontoons may be similarly sized or even identically sized for example when produced using the same or similar production processes.

As a particular option, at least one dimension of at least one of the pontoons 100 corresponds to at least one dimension of at least one of the bows 200. Preferably, at least a width of at least one of the pontoons corresponds to at least a width of at least one of the bows, wherein the width is generally defined perpendicular to the moving direction 302.

In the array 400 shown in Fig. 6A, the pontoons 100 are interconnected using a plurality of pontoon connection members 402. For example, between adjacent pontoons, two or more connection members 402 may be used. When two or more connection members 402 are used, said connection members may be positioned at or near corners of the pontoons.

The pontoon connection members 402 used for interconnecting pontoons 100 may as a particular option also be used to interconnect bows 200 and/or to connect a bow 200 to a pontoon 100. This may be advantageous as less different parts have to be used, and less different parts have to be transported to the desired position of the pontoons on the body of water, which may be at a significant distance from land, for example in the order of kilometres or even tens of kilometres.

Regardless of whether the array 400 comprises one or more bows 200, any embodiment of an array disclosed herein may comprise one or more outer perimeter connector 406. An outer perimeter connector 406 may be used to connect two or more pontoons which form an outer perimeter of the array 400. In the particular example of Fig. 6A, all of the pontoons 100 form the outer perimeter. In other examples, pontoons which are fully surrounded by further pontoons generally do not form part of the outer perimeter. For example, a 3x3 array of pontoons would have eight pontoons forming the outer perimeter around a single pontoon in the middle of the array.

It has been observed that in case of failure of a pontoon connection member at or near the outer perimeter of the array 400, there is a risk of further pontoon connection members failing. To prevent or at least reduce a chance of this happening, one or more outer perimeter connectors 406 may be used in any embodiment of an array of pontoons disclosed herein. It will be understood that the use of one or more outer perimeter connectors may be regarded as a separate aspect not necessarily linked to the use of one or more removable hydrodynamic elements.

An outer perimeter connector 406 may span at least a spacing s between adjacent pontoons 100. When this spacing is similar in a direction perpendicular to the moving direction 302 and a direction parallel to the moving direction, the same or similar outer perimeter connectors may be advantageously used in both directions. This in turn may require less different components to form the array 400. It will be generally appreciated that the use of one or more outer perimeter connectors may be regarded as an aspect independent of the use of one or more temporary hydrodynamic elements.

For clarity and conciseness of the figure, in Fig. GA, a single pontoon 100’ is shown in more detail. It will be understood that other pontoons of the array 400 of Fig 6A may also comprise the details shown only for the single pontoon 100’. In particular, the pontoon 100° comprises a plurality of flanged beams 110 together forming a structural frame 106. In general, the structural frame 106 may provide strength and/or stiffness to the pontoon 100. One or more floatation members 108 may be connected to the structural frame to provide buoyancy to the pontoon 100’.

The flanged beams forming the structural frame 106 may comprise or may even form one or more connection points 105 to which one or more connection members 105 and/or outer perimeter connectors 406 can be connected. Preferably, the connection points, connection members, and outer perimeter connectors are designed such that they a connection point 105 can be used to connect a connection member as well as an outer perimeter connector to. This may provide for a modular design of the array of pontoons, in particular allowing the same type of pontoons to be used on the outer perimeter as not on the outer perimeter of the array. A connection point for example be formed by one or more through holes through one or more flanges of a flanged beam. For example, one or more bolts may extend in use through said through holes to form a connection.

Similar to the pontoon 100’, at least one of the bows 200’ comprised by the array 400 may comprise a structural frame 426 formed by a plurality of flanged beams. The bow 200’ further comprises a floatation member 428 for providing buoyancy to the bow 200’. Alternatively, the bow 200 may be prevented from sinking by virtue of the bow 200’ being connected to at least one of the floating pontoons 100. As a particular option, one or more flanged beams of at least one of the bows and one or more flanged beams of at least one of the pontoons may have a similar or identical cross-sectional shape. It will be appreciated that any bow disclosed herein may be a floating bow, or a non-floating bow.

In the array 400 of Fig. 6A, as a particular option, pontoon connection members 402 are used to interconnect the bows 200. Fig. 6A as an even further option shows the array 400 comprising a plurality of further outer perimeter connectors 408 which not only allow two adjacent pontoons to be connected, but also allow connection of at least one bow 200 to said two adjacent pontoons. In the example of Fig. 6A, the further outer perimeter connectors 408 have comprise a general L-shape in a top view. More in general, arrays are envisioned comprising one or more further outer perimeter connectors used for connecting at least two adjacent pontoons and at least one bow. Preferably, the at least two adjacent pontoons and at least one bow are connected using a single further outer perimeter connector 408.

The further outer perimeter connector 408 may be formed as a single body.

Preferably, a further outer perimeter connector 408 can be connected to at least three connection points: two connection points 105 of two pontoons and a connection point 425 of a bow 200.

In an array 400 of pontoons, as for example depicted in Fig. GA, it is not necessary to have all bows directly connected to a pontoon. For example, one or more bows may be connected first to another bow, such as an adjacent bow, and via said another bow to one or more pontoons. In the example of Fig. 6A, as an option applicable to any array of pontoons, bows are intermittently directly connected to a pontoon and indirectly connected to a pontoon.

Fig. GB shows an array 600 of two bows 200’, 200” which are connected to each other using two connection members, which preferably are pontoon connection members 402. It will be appreciated that an array 600 of bows may comprise any number of bows in any configuration. An array 600 of bows may for example be used as a temporary working surface adjacent to an array of pontoons and/or to transport material from and/or to the array of pontoons. As depicted in Fig. 6B, bow bodies 202’, 202” of bows in the array 600 may generally face in the same direction.

A method is envisioned for forming an array of hydrodynamic elements, such as bows. The method comprises disconnecting a plurality of temporary hydrodynamic elements from one or more pontoons, in particular from one or more pontoons comprised by an array of pontoons floating on a body of water. The method further comprises interconnecting the plurality of temporary hydrodynamic elements, which may be performed before the plurality of temporary hydrodynamic elements have been disconnected from the one or more pontoons, or after the plurality of temporary hydrodynamic elements has been disconnected from the one or more pontoons. The method preferably is performed on a body of water.

As a particular option for this method, the plurality of temporary hydrodynamic elements are interconnected using one or more pontoon connection members of a similar or equal design as also used for at least in part interconnecting pontoons in the array to which the temporary hydrodynamic elements were previously connected.

Fig. 6C shows another example of an array 600 of bows, comprising four interconnected bows 200. In this example of the array 600, bow bodies 202 of different bows 200 either face in the same direction, or face is opposite directions relative to at least one other bow body 202.

In general, any hydrodynamic element disclosed herein, such as any bow disclosed herein, may comprise one or more interfaces for connecting a watercraft to. Such a watercraft may for example be a boat, ship, jet ski, any other motorised watercraft, or any other vessel capable of transportation over a body of water. Such an interface may for example be used to connect a towing line, rope and/or cable to for towing the hydrodynamic element over the body of water using the watercraft. An interface may for example comprise one or more eyes and/or one or more bollards. A bollard typically comprises a body, such as a generally cylindrical body, with a thickened head section and/or one or more generally radial protrusion to prevent accidental dislodging of a rope or cable wrapped around said bollard.

Fig. 7 shows the array 400 of pontoons of Fig. 6A, with a number of bows 200 removed. In particular, the array 400 of pontoons of Fig. 7 comprises two bows 200, with a spacing 700 between the bows 200. The spacing 700 may for example correspond to the space were one or more bows were previously present, as will become apparent when comparing Figs. GA and Fig. 7.

The spacing 700 may be obtained by removing one or more bows 200 from the array 400, for example after the pontoons in the array have been placed at their desired positions. When one or more hows 200 remain present adjacent to the spacing 700, said one or more bows 200 may be used by personnel to board the array 400 via said one or more bows 200. Fig. 7 schematically depicts a ship 702 docked at least partially in the spacing 700.

Personnel may step of a side of the ship 702 onto one or more of the bows 200.

Fig. 8A shows a schematic cross-section of two pontoons 100’ 100” which are connected via a pontoon connection member 402. When two or more bows 200 or other hydrodynamic elements also comprise flanged beams and a floatation member, a cross-section of such two bows may resemble the cross- section shown in Fig. 8A. As a particular option, applicable for any pontoon connection member 402 disclosed herein, the pontoon connection member 402 is connected to one or more flanges 180 of at least one flanged beam of each pontoon — or conceivably one or more flanges of at least one flanged beam of each bow when the pontoon connection member is used to connect bows. In particular, the one or more flanges 180 are outward oriented flanges — i.e. flanges facing away from the pontoon 100, and away from for example a floatation member 108 when the pontoon 100 comprise such an optional floatation member.

Fig. 8B shows a schematic cross-section of an embodiment of a pontoon 100, which embodiment may be used in any array of pontoons disclosed herein. The cross-section may be regarded in a direction parallel to a typical direction of movement 302, perpendicular to the typical direction of movement 302, or in any other direction when the pontoon has a non- rectangular shape. Any embodiment of a bow 200 may also have the same schematic cross-section as depicted in Fig. 8B, because as a particular option a bow may also comprise flanged beams forming a frame.

As a separate aspect, i.e. separate from the technical concept of connecting a temporary hydrodynamic element to pontoon, the concept of positioning a pontoon on a body of water, and the concept of positioning a plurality of pontoons onto a body of water in an array, Fig. 8B schematically depicts a bollard 802 connected to the pontoon 100. In particular, at least part of the bollard 802 is positioned alongside the pontoon 100.

The bollard 802 comprises a bollard post 803 which is use is oriented typically in a vertical direction. As an option, at or near an upper end of the bollard post 803, one or more restriction members 804 may protrude from the bollard post 803. In general, a bollard connected to a pontoon or bow may be used for connecting a rope or cable to, for example for anchoring the pontoon or bow, mooring the pontoon or bow, or for towing the pontoon or bow. Anchoring or mooring the pontoon or bow may be temporary, for example during assembly of an array of pontoons, when connecting or disconnecting one or more bows from one or more pontoons, or the anchoring or mooring may be non-temporary or permanent — i.e. for one or more months, one or more years, or even one or more decades.

Fig. 8B schematically shows two through holes or mounting holes 105 as an example of a connection point. In general, in any embodiment of a pontoon or bow disclosed herein, one or more connection points may be embodied as one or more through holes 105, for example two or more, three or more, or even four or more through holes. In general, the through holes — also referred to as mounting holes — may be generally positioned on a single line. In particular when said pontoon or bow comprises a flanged beam, the one or more through holes 105 may be through said flanged beam, in particular through a flange 180 of said flanged beam 110, more in particular through an outwardly oriented flange 180 as depicted in Fig. 8B. It will be appreciated that the connection point may be regarded as a separate aspect, regardless of the presence for example of a bollard or temporary hydrodynamics element.

When a pontoon or hydrodynamic element comprises one or more connection point comprising one or more through holes or mounting holes, one or more pins, screws, and/or or bolts may be used to mount at least one of a pontoon connection member, outer perimeter connector, further outer perimeter connector, and/or bollard may be connected.

Fig. 8C schematically depicts the cross-section of the pontoon 100 or bow of Fig. 8A, with another embodiment of a bollard 802. In this particular embodiment, the bollard 802 comprises a bollard post 803 and two other example of restriction members 804. The bollard 802 further comprises a connection frame 805 with which the bollard post 803 is connectable to the pontoon 100, in particular to a flanged beam 110 of the pontoon.

As can be seen in Figs. 8B and 8C, it is envisioned to position at least part of a bollard 802, in particular at least part of a bollard post 803, at a side of the pontoon or bow to which the bollard 802 is connected. The bollard post 803 may extend upwards, and may in use be positioned higher than the pontoon or bow to which the bollard is connected. When the at least part of a bollard 802, in particular at least part of a bollard post 803, is positioned at a side of the pontoon or bow — instead of on top of the pontoon of bow — less of the working surface of the pontoon or bow may be obstructed.

Generally indicated in Figs. 8B and 8C 1s a photovoltaic panel 800 which may be supported by a pontoon 100. As can be seen, having the bollard 802 positioned at least next to or alongside the pontoon 100 provides for a larger usable working surface on top of the pontoon 100, compared for example to having a bollard protruding from the top of the flanged beam 110.

Fig. 9 shows in an isometric view an example of a bollard 802, which for example may be used in conjunction with any pontoon and/or any temporary hydrodynamic element, in particular any pontoon and/or any temporary hydrodynamic element disclosed herein. It will be understood that the bollard may be regarded as a separate aspect, which is not necessarily related to the concept of providing one or more pontoons with a temporary hydrodynamic element.

Bollards are generally used for mooring or anchoring a watercraft, for example at a dock, harbour, or at a waiting position at a distance from said dock or harbour. In these applications, a typical time the bollard is used for mooring or anchoring the watercraft is in the order of minutes, hours, or sometimes days. For pontoons arranged for carrying one or more photovoltaic panels, the time said pontoons are anchored at the same position on a body of water may be in the order of months, years, or even decades. As such, it has been observed that there is a need for a bollard which can be used for anchoring a pontoon carrying one or more photovoltaic panels for such a long time. In particular, the pontoon may be positioned further away from land than a typical watercraft when anchored or moored. Generally, this implies that the pontoon — and thus the bollard — will be subjected to more extreme conditions, such as a higher wind speeds and higher waves. It is an object to provide a bollard which can anchor a pontoon at these extreme conditions.

When a pontoon is used to carry one or more photovoltaic panels and/or other electronics on a working surface of the pontoon, it may be a general object to use as much of the working surface of the pontoon for this purpose.

The bollard may additionally or alternatively be used for a watercraft to connected a mooring line to, for example to temporarily secure the watercraft to a pontoon or array of pontoons.

Figs. 10A, 10B, and 10C respectively show a top view, side view, and a front view of the bollard of Fig. 9. The bollard 802 comprises the bollard post 803 around which for example one or more ropes or cables may be tied or wrapped. To prevent such one or more ropes or cables to slip of the bollard post 803, in particular over a top of the bollard post 803, a rod 804 is provided as an example of a restriction member. As shown in the figures, the rod 804 may be oriented at an angle relative to bollard post 803, for example substantially perpendicular to the bollard post 803. The rod 804 may extend through the bollard post 803 (as shown in Fig. 10A) and/or the rod 804 may extend in opposite directions relative to the bollard post 803. In use, the rod 804 may for example be oriented substantially parallel to a side of a pontoon.

As a further option, shown in the figures, the restriction member, such as the rod 804, may comprise one or more thickened section 806 to further prevent one or more ropes or cables to slip of the bollard post 803. In the particular example of Figs. 9-10C the thickened sections 806 are embodied as circular plates positioned at the ends of the rod 804. It will be understood however that other shapes and positions for the thickened sections 806 are envisioned. For example, one or more thickened sections may be positioned at a distance from an outer end of the restriction member.

The bollard 802 comprises a bollard frame 805 for connecting the bollard 802 to a watercraft, pontoon, or hydrodynamic element. In the particular example of Fig. 9-10C, the bollard frame 805 comprises an upper frame part 810 and a lower frame part 812. The upper frame part and the lower frame part are connected, and may in embodiments even be formed by the same body.

As an option depicted in Figs. 9-10C, the bollard post 803 may extend upward from the lower frame part 812, and may thus be connected to said lower frame part 812. The bollard post 803 may extend through an opening 814 of the upper frame part 810. For example, the bollard post 803 may be generally cylindrically shaped, and when the bollard post extends through an opening of the upper frame part, said opening may for example have a generally circular shape or ellipsoid shape when the opening is positioned in a part of the upper frame part oriented at an angle relative to the bollard post which angle is for example between 30 and 60 degrees, or at least not 90 degrees, preferably about 45 degrees.

As can particularly be seen in Figs. 9 and the front view of Fig. 10C, at least part of the upper frame part 810 may be positioned at an angle a relative to at least part of the lower frame part 812. Additionally, another part of the upper frame part may be oriented generally parallel to the at least part of the lower frame part. In use, the lower frame part, or at least part thereof, may be oriented generally horizontally. Part of the upper frame part may also in use be oriented generally horizontally, whereas another part of the upper frame part may be oriented at an angle a relative to horizontal, for example an angle between 20 degrees and 70 degrees relative to horizontal,

more in particular an angle between 30 degrees and 50 degrees, preferably approximately 45 degrees. The another part of the upper frame part may be referred to as a slanted part of the bollard frame.

Through both the upper frame part 810 and the lower frame part 812, as generally indicated in Fig. 9, one or more mounting holes 808 may be provided, which can be used to connect the bollard 802 to a connection point, for example a connection point 105 of a pontoon. Said connection point 105 may thus have one or more mounting holes with a position and spacing corresponding to the position and spacing of the mounting holes 808 of the bollard 802, such that the mounting hole or mounting holes of the bollard and the pontoon may be aligned. When the mounting hole or mounting holes are aligned, a pin, bolt, screw, or other connection member may extend through one or more mounting holes of the pontoon and the bollard to connect the bollard to the pontoon. For example, four equally spaced mounting holes 808 may be comprised by the bollard, in particular through both the upper frame part and the lower frame part as for example shown in Fig. 9.

As for example shown in the side view of Fig. 10B, at least part of the bollard frame, in particular the slanted part, may be tapered in a direction away from the lower frame part 812 — i.e. in use tapered upwards. As such, a bottom part of the slanted part may have a larger width than an upper part of the slanted part, as is visible in Figs. 9 and 10B. In the side view, at least part of the bollard frame 805 may thus generally widen in a downward direction.

At least part of the lower frame part 812 may additionally or alternately be tapered outward in a direction away from the mounting holes 808 —1i.e. in use in a direction away from the pontoon to which the bollard 802 is connected — as for example shown in Fig. 10A. The upper frame part 810, or at least part thereof, may also be tapered outward in a direction away from the mounting holes 808, thus at least in part generally widening away from the pontoon to which the bollard 802 is connected.

When the bollard 802 has a slanted frame part and/or when at least part of the upper frame part, slanted frame part, and/or lower frame part has a tapered shape, one or more ropes or cables connected to the bollard 802 may be less prone to get stuck behind a part of the bollard 802.

Additionally or alternatively, the one or more ropes and/or cables, the tapered shape or shapes may aid in maintaining an orientation of the one or more ropes and/or cables relative to the pontoon, in particular in an orientation away from the pontoon to which the bollard is connected. In particular in offshore weather conditions with high wind speeds and high waves, maintaining an orientation of the one or more ropes or cables and/or preventing the one or more ropes or cables from becoming stuck may be particularly advantageous, furthermore when the pontoon with the bollard is left at the same position for a long period of time, for example in the order of years.

Even further additionally or alternatively, in use, the one or more ropes or cables connected to the bollard post 803 may rub over the slanted frame part. As such, it may be preferred that an outward facing surface 818 of the slanted frame part may be generally smooth, for example with a smooth transition between the slanted frame part and an adjacent horizontal frame part.

When the bollard 802 comprises a link 816, such a link may also be used for attaching a rope or cable to, and/or the link 816 may be used for example for transporting the bollard 802, for example as a hoisting eye. The link 816 may in particular be connected to the bollard post 803, and may in use form a highest point of the bollard 802.

It will be generally understood that the bollard frame of the bollard 802 may allow for the bollard post 803 to be connected to a pontoon and to be positioned alongside the pontoon, preferably occupying or blocking as little as possible of the working surface of the pontoon, even more preferably without occupying or blocking any of the working surface of the pontoon.

The bollard 802 depicted m Figs. 9-10C may be particularly designed to be connected to a flanged beam, in particular a flanged beam of a pontoon. As such, as for example depicted in Figs. 8B and 8C, part of the bollard may be positioned between flanges of a flanged beam, may be positioned below and/or above one or more flanges of a flanged beam, may be generally connected, clamped, welded, bolted to one or more flanges beams, or any combination thereof.

In the description above, it will be understood that when an element is referred to as being connect to another element, the element is either directly connected to the other element, or intervening elements may also be present. Also, it will be understood that the values given in the description above, are given by way of example and that other values may be possible and/or may be strived for.

It is to be noted that the figures are only schematic representations of embodiments that are given by way of non-limiting examples. For the purpose of clarity and a concise description, features are described herein as part of the same or separate embodiments, however, it will be appreciated that the scope of the disclosure may include embodiments having combinations of all or some of the features described. It will be understood that not all elements shown in the figures are provided with a reference numeral, for example but not limited to pontoons, bows, and connection members.

The word ‘comprising’ does not exclude the presence of other features or steps. Furthermore, the words 'a' and 'an' shall not be construed as limited to 'only one’, but instead are used to mean 'at least one’, and do not exclude a plurality.

Claims

Conclusions

A method for positioning a pontoon (100) on a body of water (300), the pontoon comprising a float body (101), and the method comprising the steps of: - attaching a temporary hydrodynamic element (200) to the float body; - transporting the pontoon over the water body to a desired position on the water body; and - removing the temporary hydrodynamic element from the float body.

A method according to claim 1, wherein the hydrodynamic element is a bow.

3. Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the hydrodynamic element is attached to the float body on land.

4. Method according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising, after removing the hydrodynamic element, attaching the hydrodynamic element to a float body of a further pontoon.

5. Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the pontoon is a floating solar energy system comprising one or more photovoltaic panels.

A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the removal of the hydrodynamic element is non-destructive for at least one of the float body and the hydrodynamic element.

7. Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the temporary hydrodynamic element is a floating temporary hydrodynamic element, the method further comprising: - positioning the floating temporary hydrodynamic element in front of the pontoon with respect to a direction of movement towards the desired position, such that During transport of the pontoon over the water body to the desired position on the water body, the floating temporary hydrodynamic element remains substantially in front of the pontoon.

Method according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising attaching a further pontoon to the pontoon to which the temporary hydrodynamic element is connected, in particular wherein the further pontoon is attached behind the pontoon with respect to a direction of movement towards the desired position.

9. Method for positioning a plurality of pontoons (100) on a body of water (300) in an array (400), comprising steps of: - positioning the plurality of pontoons to desired positions on the body of water, in particular according to a method according to any one of claims 1-8, further in particular using a motorized vessel; - prior to positioning at least one pontoon in the plurality of pontoons at its respective desired position, attaching a temporary hydrodynamic element (200), in particular a bow, to the at least one pontoon; and - after positioning the at least one pontoon connected to the temporary hydrodynamic element at its respective desired position, removing the temporary hydrodynamic element.

10. Method according to claim 9, wherein the plurality of pontoons are interconnected prior to connecting the temporary hydrodynamic element to the at least one pontoon.

11. Pontoon (100) for supporting one or more photovoltaic panels, comprising: - a float body (101); and - a temporary hydrodynamic element attached to the float body, wherein the hydrodynamic element is removably connected to the float body.

12. Pontoon according to claim 11, wherein the hydrodynamic element is a bow, which at least partly covers a side of the float body, in particular a front side of the float body.

13. Pontoon according to any one of claims 11-12, wherein the hydrodynamic element is non-destructively removably connected to the float body.

14. Pontoon according to any of the preceding claims 11-13, wherein: - the pontoon comprises one or more flanged beams, in particular with an I-shaped cross-section; and - the temporary hydrodynamic element includes a cutout (210) oriented to mate with at least part of one of the flanged beams of the pontoon.

The pontoon of claim 14, wherein the temporary hydrodynamic element includes an incision (212) extending away from the pontoon.

Pontoon according to any one of claims 11-15, further comprising one or more connection points for connecting a pontoon connection part (402) for connection to one or more neighboring pontoons in an array.

17. Pontoon according to any one of claims 11-16, wherein the hydrodynamic element extends under the float body.

18. Pontoon according to any one of claims 11-17, wherein the hydrodynamic element extends above the float body.

19. Pontoon according to any one of claims 11-18, wherein the temporary hydrodynamic element comprises one or more flanged beams.

Pontoon (100) for supporting one or more photovoltaic panels, in particular according to one of claims 11-19, the pontoon comprising: - a float body (101); and - a bollard (802) connected to the pontoon and comprising a bollard post (803), in which at least part of the bollard is positioned next to the pontoon.

21. Pontoon according to claim 20, wherein the float body comprises a structural frame comprising flanged beams, and the bollard is connected to the structural frame.

Pontoon according to claim 20 or 21, wherein the bollard is connected to a connection point (105) of the pontoon (100).

23. Pontoon according to any one of claims 20-22, wherein in use the bollard post is positioned outside the float body in a top view.

An array (400) of pontoons, comprising: - a plurality of pontoons (100), in particular comprising at least one pontoon according to any one of claims 11-23; - at least one temporary hydrodynamic element (200) connected to at least one pontoon of the plurality of pontoons.

The array of pontoons according to claim 24, comprising at least four pontoons, in particular at least eight pontoons or even at least twelve pontoons.

The array of pontoons according to claim 24 or 25, wherein the pontoons in the plurality of pontoons have similar dimensions or themselves have identical dimensions.

27. The array of pontoons according to any one of claims 24-26, wherein at least one dimension, in particular a width, of the temporary hydrodynamic element corresponds to at least one dimension, in particular a width, of at least one of the pontoons of the multitude of pontoons.

The array of pontoons according to any one of claims 24 to 27, wherein the pontoons in the plurality of pontoons are connected to each other with one or more pontoon connecting parts (402).

The array of pontoons according to any one of claims 24-28, comprising a plurality of temporary hydrodynamic elements.

The array of pontoons according to claim 29, wherein the temporary hydrodynamic elements are connected to each other.

The array of pontoons according to any one of claims 29 or 30, wherein at least one of the temporary hydrodynamic elements is connected to at least one of the pontoons via another of the temporary hydrodynamic elements.

The array of pontoons according to any one of claims 24 to 31, further comprising at least two pontoon connecting portions (402), wherein a first pontoon connecting portion is designed to connect at least two pontoons, and a second pontoon connecting portion is designed to connect at least one pontoon and connecting at least one temporary hydrodynamic element and/or connecting at least two temporary hydrodynamic elements, and wherein the two pontoon connecting parts are designed to be interchangeable.

The array of pontoons according to any one of claims 24 to 32, further comprising an outer perimeter connector (406) connecting at least two pontoons that form part of the outer perimeter of the array.

The array of pontoons according to claim 33, wherein all pontoons forming the outer perimeter of the array are connected together using outer perimeter connectors.

The array of pontoons according to any one of claims 24 to 34, wherein at least one of the pontoons and at least one of the temporary hydrodynamic elements is provided with a connection point (105) designed to connect a same pontoon connection part (402) thereto. to have.

The array of pontoons according to claim 35, wherein the connection point (105) is designed to connect both a pontoon connection member and an outer perimeter connector.

The array of pontoons according to any one of claims 24 to 36, further comprising a further outer perimeter connector (408), which further outer perimeter connector connects at least two pontoons and at least one temporary hydrodynamic element.

The array of pontoons according to claim 37, wherein the further outer circumferential connector comprises a substantially L-shaped body, particularly when used in a plan view.

The array of pontoons according to any one of claims 24 to 38, comprising two hydrodynamic elements, positioned such that a space (700) is present between the two hydrodynamic elements, in particular where a dimension of the space substantially corresponds to a size of a temporary hydrodynamic element and/or the space has dimensions to accommodate at least part of a vessel such as a boat.

A set of parts for forming an array (400) of pontoons, comprising: - a plurality of pontoons, in particular pontoons according to any one of claims 11-23; - one or more hydrodynamic elements; and - a plurality of pontoon connecting parts (402).

41. Set of parts according to claim 40, wherein the pontoon connecting parts are designed for at least two of: - connecting at least two pontoons to each other;

- connecting at least two hydrodynamic elements to each other; and - connecting at least one hydrodynamic element to at least one pontoon.

42. A method for forming an array (600) of hydrodynamic elements (200), such as bows, the method comprising steps of: - detaching a plurality of temporary hydrodynamic elements from one or more pontoons, in particular one or more pontoons contained by an array of pontoons floating on a body of water; and - connecting the plurality of temporary hydrodynamic elements together to form the array of hydrodynamic elements.

43. A method for mooring a vessel to an array of pontoons, the array of pontoons comprising a plurality of pontoons and at least one hydrodynamic element, the method comprising: - mooring the vessel near the hydrodynamic element of the array of pontoons.

The method of claim 43, wherein the vessel is moored in a space (700) between two hydrodynamic elements.

A bollard (802) for a pontoon or hydrodynamic element, in particular for a pontoon according to any one of claims 11-23, the bollard comprising: - a bollard post (803); and - a bollard frame (805) for connecting the bollard post to the pontoon or hydrodynamic element;

in which at least part of the bollard frame is positioned next to the bollard post.

46. A temporary hydrodynamic element for use in a method according to any one of claims 1-10, a pontoon according to any one of claims 11-23, an array of pontoons according to any one of claims 24-39, a set of components according to any one of claims of claims 40-41, and/or a method according to any of claims 42-44.

47. Temporary hydrodynamic element according to claim 46, wherein the hydrodynamic element is a floating hydrodynamic element adapted to float on a body of water.