NL2032838B1

NL2032838B1 - Pontoon for a floating solar energy system and floating solar energy system

Info

Publication number: NL2032838B1
Application number: NL2032838A
Authority: NL
Inventors: Johannes Wilhelmina Hendrikus Schermer Nicolaas
Original assignee: Texel4Trading B V
Priority date: 2022-08-23
Filing date: 2022-08-23
Publication date: 2024-03-05
Also published as: ES1305444U; ES1305444Y

Abstract

Pontoon (10) that is arranged to be included by a solar energy system that is provided with at least one solar panel. The solar energy system is arranged to ﬂoat on a water surface by means of at least the pontoon (10). The pontoon includes a structural element (14) and a ﬂoat (16). The structural element has a composition so that the structural element as such does not ﬂoat on said water surface. The ﬂoat has a composition so that the ﬂoat as such does ﬂoat on said water surface. The structural element (14) is provided with a cavity (20) wherein at least part of the ﬂoat (16) is provided. The structural element (14) includes a part (25) that extends sidewardly above the cavity (20). A thickness (D1) of the sidewardly extending part (25) above the cavity (20) is at least 4 centimetre and/ or is at most 12 centimetre.

Description

Title: Pontoon for a floating solar energy system and floating solar energy system

TECHNICAL FIELD

The invention relates to a pontoon that is arranged to be included by a solar energy system. The invention also relates to a floating solar energy system that includes the pontoon. The invention also relates to a method of manufacturing a pontoon that is arranged to be included by a solar energy system.

BACKGROUND

Solar energy systems can be used for generation of electrical energy from solar radiation. During the last decade, solar energy systems have grown in popularity and are used in increasing amounts. Solar energy systems can for example be placed on roofs of buildings. However, the production of electrical energy by means of solar energy panels placed on roofs of buildings can be hindered by neighbouring objects, such as e.g. a neighbouring building.

Solar energy systems can nowadays also be employed on water surfaces like a surface of, e.g., a pond, lake, river, or sea. Such a solar energy system is usually not, or at least less, hindered by neighbouring objects such as buildings. The solar energy system used on a water surface may be floating. In this way, solar energy may be generated efficiently. Moreover, a surface coverage by solar panels of the solar energy system can be relatively high over a relatively large area.

Solar energy systems floating on water however introduce specific difficulties, in particular where it concerns pontoons of such systems. For example, wind, waves, and water current could destabilize pontoons of a floating solar energy system, which may cause damage to the solar energy system. Moreover, wind, waves, water current, and also UV-radiation and the water itself, can cause wear of the floating solar energy system. In particular when a solar energy system is floating on a salt water surface such as a sea water surface, such wear can be significant.

Wear of a solar energy system, in particular of pontoons of a solar energy system, introduces an enhanced risk of failure of a solar energy system. Such failure may for example be caused by break down of parts of the solar energy system or even by sinking of the solar energy system or parts thereof, such as a pontoon. Costs of repair or replacement of parts of floating solar energy systems can be significant.

Moreover, a breakdown in energy generation may be damaging to persons and companies that rely on the generated energy. During repair or replacement, at least part of the solar energy system may not be able to generate electrical energy.

A floating solar energy system for example is known from US 2017/0040926

Ai. Such a system however comprises many different parts and may be regarded vulnerable to wear. The importance of the durability of solar energy systems, in particular of pontoons of solar energy systems, is not yet fully recognised. After all, the application of such systems is relatively young and the scale of application is still growing. This is especially true for large off-shore floating solar energy systems, applied on sea. A wish to keep a pontoon light may go at the expense of durability.

Thus, there is a need for a floating solar energy system, in particular for a pontoon of a floating energy system, that has an improved durability while it is light enough to float.

SUMMARY

The invention provides a pontoon that is arranged to be included by a solar energy system that is provided with at least one solar panel and is arranged to float on a water surface, e.g. a water surface of a pond, lake, river, and/or sea, by means of at least the pontoon, wherein the pontoon includes a structural element and a float, wherein the structural element is provided with a cavity wherein at least part of the float is provided and the structural element includes a part that extends sidewardly above the cavity.

The structural element has a composition so that the structural element as such does not float on said water surface. The specific gravity of the structural element is larger than the specific gravity of the water forming said water surface. In particular, the density of the structural element for example is at least 1500 kilogram per cubic metre or at least 2000 kilogram per cubic metre. The float has a composition so that the float as such does float on the water surface. A specific gravity of the float is smaller than the specific gravity of the water forming said water surface. In particular, the density of the float for example is at most 600 kilogram per cubic metre, at most 300 kilogram per cubic metre, at most 100 kilogram per cubic metre, or at most 50 kilogram per cubic metre. Preferably, the density of the structural element is at least 2000 kilogram per cubic metre and the density of the float is at most 100 kilogram per cubic metre or at most 50 kilogram per cubic metre.

According to an aspect, a thickness of the sidewardly extending part of the structural element at a position above the cavity is at least 4 centimetre, preferably at least 5 centimetre. According to another aspect, a thickness of the sidewardly extending part of the structural element at the position above the cavity may be at most 12 centimetre, preferably at most 10 centimetre.

Combining a structural element having a non-floating composition and a float having a floating composition enables a relatively strong and durable pontoon that is still able to float. Preferably, at least part of the structural element is positioned above the float or a part thereof. Having a thickness of the structural element at a position above the cavity, and preferably above the float, of at least 4 centimetre, enables a relatively light structural element that still can be sufficiently strong.

Having a thickness of the structural element at a position above the cavity, and preferably above the float, of at most 12 centimetre, may enable a relatively strong structural element that still can be sufficiently light.

Experiments carried out show that the thicknesses of the structural element at a position above the cavity being in a range from 4 to 12 centimetre, preferably in arange from 5 to 10 centimetre, may enable an advantageous combination between durability of the pontoon and size of the pontoon. After all, if the weight of the structural element is relatively high, a size of the float must be relatively large to keep the pontoon floating. A relatively large size of the float may make the pontoon more difficult to handle, and may also increase a vulnerability of the pontoon. After all, a material of the float may be relatively vulnerable.

Preferably, a thickness of a majority of the sidewardly extending part of the structural element above the cavity is at least 4 centimetre, preferably at least 5 centimetre. Preferably, a thickness of a majority of the sidewardly extending part of the structural element above the cavity is at most 12 centimetre, preferably at most 5 centimetre. Such ranges of the thickness of the sidewardly extending part of the structural element, may be more effective when applied to a majority of the sidewardly extending part. Said majority of the sidewardly extending part may for example refer to a majority, e.g. at least 70 %, at least 90 %, or approximately 100 %, of an area of the sidewardly extending part above the cavity, such as an area along an upper surface, or a lower surface, of the sidewardly extending part above the cavity or an area along a sidewardly extending cross section that extends through the part of the structural element that extends sidewardly above the cavity. Thus, in an embodiment, the sidewardly extending part of the structural elements extends along an area above the cavity, wherein the thickness of the sidewardly extending part of the structural element is at least 4 centimetre and/or at most 12 centimetre along a majority, e.g. at least 70 %, at least go %, or approximately 100 %, of the area above the cavity.

In an embodiment, the sidewardly extending part may be longitudinally shaped in two, preferably horizontal, orthogonal directions. Preferably, the sidewardly extending part extends in the two orthogonal horizontal directions.

Preferably, the sidewardly extending part is formed substantially as a plate. The plate preferably is substantially continuous. Alternatively, the plate may be discontinuous, e.g. may be provided with a plurality of openings.

In an embodiment, the sidewardly extending part forms an upper part of the structural element. Preferably, the pontoon has a top surface. Preferably, the structural element has an upper surface. Preferably, the top surface of the pontoon is formed by the upper surface of the structural element, in particular by an upper surface of the sidewardly extending part of the structural element.

In an embodiment, a ratio of a weight of the structural element and an area of the upper surface of the structural element in a vertical projection, is at least 125 kilogram per square metre, preferably at least 150 kilogram per square metre, more preferably at least 175 kilogram per square metre. Preferably, a ratio of a weight of the structural element and an area of the upper surface in a vertical projection, is at most 350 kilogram per square metre, preferably at most 310 kilogram per square 5 metre, more preferably at most 280 kilogram per square metre. Such ratio’s may be achieved for example by using concrete in the composition of the structural element.

In an embodiment, a majority of a mass of at least the sidewardly extending part of the structural element is made of concrete.

In an embodiment, a ratio of a weight of the sidewardly extending part of the structural element above the cavity and an area of the upper surface of the structural element above the cavity in a vertical projection, is at least 120 kilogram per square metre, preferably at least 140 kilogram per square metre, more preferably at least 165 kilogram per square metre. Preferably, a ratio of a weight of the sidewardly extending part of the structural element above the cavity and an area of the upper surface of the structural element above the cavity in a vertical projection, is at most 330 kilogram per square metre, preferably at most 295 kilogram per square metre, more preferably at most 265 kilogram per square metre.

In an embodiment, the float has a thickness in an upward direction, wherein a ratio of the thickness of the sidewardly extending part of the structural element at the position above the cavity and the thickness of the float at a position below the position above the cavity is at least 0,1, preferably at least 0,15, and/or is at most 0,3, preferably at most 0,2. Preferably, the sidewardly extending part of the structural elements extends along an area above the cavity, wherein the ratio of the thickness of the sidewardly extending part of the structural element and the thickness of the float is at least 0,1 and/or is at most 0,3, along a majority, e.g. at least 70 %, at least 90 9%, or approximately 100 %, of the area above the cavity. In an embodiment, the thickness of the float is at least 0,25 metre and/or is at most 0,70 metre, preferably along a majority, e.g. at least 70 %, at least 90 %, or approximately 100 %, of the area above the cavity.

Floating materials included by the float may e.g. be expanded polystyrene or another type of solid foam material. The cavity can provide a protected space wherein at least part of the float can be accommodated. As the float, due to its composition, may be more vulnerable to wear, or other types of damage, than the structural element, the cavity enables a relatively durable pontoon wherein at least part of the float can be protected. Having continuity in at least part of the structural element enables an increased strength of the structural element.

In an embodiment, the float defines a shape and/or one or more dimensions of the cavity. Such defining may e.g. result from the structural element including a solidified material that originates from a fluidic material that flowed along the float, e.g. above and/or beside the float. Preferably, by making the fluidic material flow along the float, e.g. above and/or beside the float, the cavity is formed by the solidification of the fluidic material. For example, by pouring the fluidic material over and/or around the float, the cavity may be formed by solidification of the poured material. Preferably, the fluidic material solidified along, e.g. beside and preferably above, the float to form the cavity.

Thus, in an embodiment, the structural element includes a solidified material that originates from a fluidic material. The solidified material included by the structural element may e.g. be concrete. The fluidic material preferably is a suspension such as a concrete suspension, in particular an aerated concrete suspension that has not yet solidified. Thus, preferably, the composition of the structural element includes a solidified fluidic material such as a solidified aerated concrete suspension. Preferably, the structural element is moulded.

In an embodiment, the structural element is reinforced by a solid structure, e.g. made of steel. Thus, preferably, the solid structure reinforces the structural element. In an embodiment, the solidified material surrounds at least part of the solid structure. Optionally, the solid structure includes a metallic material such as steel, e.g. may be made of a metallic material such as steel. Preferably, the structural element includes reinforced concrete.

In an embodiment, the float is attached to the structural element when provided in the cavity. Preferably, such attachment is a result of solidification of the fluidic material. Preferably, the float is provided with at least one float coupling element for attachment of the float to the structural element. Preferably, the at least one float coupling element is, at least partly, surrounded by the structural element.

Such surrounding may for example result from flow of the fluidic material from which the solidified material results. Preferably, the at least one float coupling element broadens in a direction away from the float. The at least one float coupling element may be attached to the float, e.g. by screwing and/or by gluing.

Preferably, one or more coupling elements are attached to the solid structure, for enabling a mechanical coupling to the structural element by means of the one or more coupling elements. After the attaching, at least part of the fluidic material may flow above and/or beside the float, and preferably into the mould, to surround the coupling elements. This may enable durability of the attachment between the one or more coupling elements and the structural element.

Preferably, the float is attached to the solid structure, preferably by means of the one or more float coupling elements. This may enable durability of the attachment between the float and the structural element.

In an embodiment, the structural element includes a downwardly projecting lower part that projects downwards from the sidewardly extending part of the structural element. Preferably, the sidewardly extending part and the downwardly projecting lower part define the cavity. The downwardly projecting lower part may form a barrier against damage of the float. Preferably, the sidewardly extending part and the downwardly projecting part are made of one piece. Making both parts of one piece facilitates the manufacturing process in combination with obtaining a durable pontoon.

In an embodiment, the structural element has an, in use, lower surface, wherein the downwardly projecting lower part defines at least part of the lower surface of the structural element. Preferably, the downwardly projecting lower part forms an, in use, lowest point of the structural element. This may increase durability of the pontoon, as it may reduce a number of parts of the pontoon.

In an embodiment, the structural element has an outer circumference that is defined by side surfaces of the structural element, wherein the downwardly projecting lower part is positioned near the outer circumference of the structural element. Positioning the downwardly projecting lower part near the outer circumference, enables a relatively large lateral extend of the float. As a result, the pontoon can be relatively stable.

In an embodiment, the cavity provided in the structural element is open in an, in use, downwards direction. This may facilitate positioning the float into the cavity, e.g. after repair of the float. In an embodiment, the float is arranged to be moved out of the cavity, preferably in a downwards direction, or into the cavity, preferably in an upwards direction.

In an embodiment, the composition and a volume of the structural element and of the float are designed so that, in use and while the water surface is substantially free of waves and preferably is substantially free of current, the downwardly projecting lower part is at least partly lower than the water surface.

This enables improving protection of the float against surface waves on the water surface.

In an embodiment, the composition and a volume of the structural element and of the float are designed so that, in use and while the water surface is substantially free of waves and preferably is substantially free of current, a majority of the downwardly projecting lower part is higher than the water surface. Having most of the downwardly projecting lower part higher than the water surface, enables a relatively light pontoon. Optionally, the float partly projects out of the cavity.

In another embodiment, the composition and a volume of the structural element and of the float are designed so that, in use and while the water surface is substantially free of waves and preferably is substantially free of current, a majority of the downwardly projecting lower part is lower than the water surface. This enables a relative good protection of the float. Optionally, the float does not project out of the cavity, i.e. is contained inside the cavity.

In an embodiment, the composition and dimensions, of the structural element and of the float, are designed so that, in use and while the water surface is substantially free of waves and preferably is substantially free of current, a centre of gravity of the pontoon and/or of the solar energy system is higher than the water surface, and/or is at most 20% of a lateral dimension of the float above the water surface. Having a centre of gravity of the pontoon higher than the water surface is surprising, as durable floating objects like boats usually have their centre of gravity lower than the water surface. Stability of the pontoon against wind, waves, and current may benefit from an upper limit of the centre of gravity. Said lateral dimension of the float may e.g. be a length, width, or diameter of the float. Said lateral dimension may be measured along a horizontal direction, in use and while the water surface is substantially free of waves and preferably is substantially free of current.

In an embodiment, the composition and dimensions, of the structural element and of the float, are designed so that, in use, a natural oscillation time of the pontoon and/or of the solar energy system is at least 10 seconds, preferably at least 15 seconds, more preferably about 20 seconds. Stability of the pontoon against wind, waves, and current may benefit from a lower limit to the natural oscillation time of the pontoon. Said lower limit may be larger than naturally occurring oscillation times of waves, current and/or wind that may disturb the water surface during use of the solar energy system.

In an embodiment, the solidified material is formed at least partly by concrete. Preferably, the structural element is formed at least partly of concrete so that the structural element includes at least 70 weight percent concrete. The structural element includes at least 50 wt. % concrete. Preferably, the composition of the structural element includes at least 80 wt. % concrete, more preferably at least 90 wt. % concrete or at least 95 wt. % concrete. In an embodiment, the structural element includes at least 50 wt. % aerated concrete or at least 70 wt. % aerated concrete. The structural element may e.g. be substantially made of concrete.

In an embodiment, the float includes expanded polystyrene. In an embodiment, the float includes at least 70 wt. % expanded polystyrene. Preferably, the float includes at least 80 wt. % expanded polystyrene, more preferably at least 90 wt. % expanded polystyrene or at least 95 wt. % expanded polystyrene. The float may e.g. be substantially made of expanded polystyrene.

In an embodiment, the structural element, preferably the concrete of the structural element, includes parts of recycled solar panels. Preferably, the structural element, in particular the concrete of the structural element, includes at least 10 wt. %, more preferably at least 20 wt. % and/or at most 30 wt. %, of parts of recycled solar panels. Recycling solar panels by reusing them as part of the concrete, may provide an environmental advantage.

In an embodiment, the float is, at least partly, covered by a protective layer.

The protective layer may e.g. be an anti-rooting membrane and/or a rubber layer.

Other protective layers can be used, alternative to, or in addition to, the anti-rooting membrane. For example, the anti-rooting membrane may be covered by a rubber layer to form the protective layer. The protective layer may be substantially free of plastic, e.g. may be based on burlap and/or hemp. By means of the protective layer, the float may be further protected against wear. The anti-rooting membrane may e.g. protect the float against plants that may grow on a surface of the float. Such plants may enhance wear of the float. Thus, the protective layer may improve a durability of the pontoon and of the solar energy system.

In an embodiment, the structural element has a substantially rectangular shape in a horizontal cross section that extends through the part of the structural element that extends sidewardly above the cavity. A proportion between a long side and a short side of the rectangular shape may e.g. be at least 2 and/or at most 4, preferably at least 2,5 and/or at most 3, preferably about 2,7. Such a rectangular shape may enable an efficient configuration of a solar energy system that includes a plurality of pontoons. In an embodiment, the cavity may be shaped as a substantially rectangular box. Optionally, a proportion between a sidewardly extending long side and a sidewardly extending short side of the rectangular box is at least 2 and/or is at most 4.

In an embodiment, the pontoon is provided with one or more pairs of solar panels that are positioned substantially in a V-shape, the V being upside down and being positioned at least partly above the water surface.

Preferably, the structural element does not include plastic materials.

Optionally, the structural element includes at most 10 wt. %, preferably at most 5 wt. %, more preferably at most 1 wt. %, of plastic materials. Preferably, the float does not include plastic materials. Optionally, the float includes at most 10 wt. %, preferably at most 5 wt. %, more preferably at most 1 wt. % of plastic materials.

In an embodiment, the pontoon is on a truck or trailer for transporting the pontoon, e.g. towards the water surface. Preferably, two or more similar pontoons that include the pontoon, are stacked in a vertical direction on the truck or trailer.

Preferably, a plurality of trucks and/or trailers is provided, each being provided with at least a pontoon, preferably each being provided with a plurality of the pontoons.

Such a plurality of trucks may be appreciated when the solar energy system includes, tor example, at least 2000 or at least 2500 pontoons.

The invention also provides the solar energy system that includes the pontoon. Thus, in an embodiment, the pontoon is included by the solar energy system. Preferably, the solar energy system is arranged for generating electrical energy from solar radiation.

In an embodiment, the solar energy system includes a frame that is attached to the structural element, the frame being arranged for attaching the at least one solar panel to the frame and, optionally, positioning the solar panel at least partly above at least part of the structural element. The frame preferably includes a plurality of frame elements. Preferably, the at least one solar panel is attached to the frame. Preferably, a pair of solar panels is attached to a pair of frame elements.

Preferably, the at least one solar panel is attached to the frame by means of at least one moveable, e.g. slidable, lock that allows movement of the at least one solar panel and the frame with respect to each other. A moveable lock enables reduction of forces on, and mechanical stress in, the at least one solar panel. A fully rigid attachment between the frame at the at least one solar panel could induce mechanical loads on the solar panel, e.g. due to deformation in the frame and/or the at least one solar panel caused by wind, waves, and/or differences in thermal expansion between the frame and the solar panel. Hence, a durability of the at least one solar panel may benefit from a loose connection between the at least one solar panel and the frame.

Preferably the solar energy system includes, per solar panel, one fixing lock between the solar panel and the frame, which does not allow movement of the solar panel and the frame with respect to each other. The attachment of the frame and the solar panel relative to each other may benefit from such a fixing lock, as it may e.g. substantially prevent the at least one solar panel from substantial impact against the frame.

In an embodiment, the solar energy system that includes the pontoon, is provided with a plurality of solar panels that includes the at least one solar panel, wherein the pontoon is one of a plurality of pontoons included by the solar energy system, wherein pontoons of the plurality of pontoons are mechanically interconnected. Preferably, the pontoons of the plurality of pontoons are similar.

Preferably, the plurality of pontoons is formed by pontoons according to the invention. Preferably, the solar panels of the plurality of solar panels of the solar energy system are electrically connected, for producing the electrical energy.

Preferably, the plurality of pontoons includes at least 100 pontoons or at least 500 pontoons, more preferably at least 2500 pontoons or at least 5000 pontoons.

In an embodiment, the pontoons of the plurality of pontoons are mechanically interconnected, preferably near corners of the pontoons. Preferably, the pontoons of said plurality of pontoons are each mechanically interconnected with at least one other pontoon of said plurality of pontoons near corners of the pontoons. As a result, preferably, each pontoon is provided with one or more interconnected corners.

Preferably, for each pontoon the number of interconnected corners equals the number of other pontoons that are interconnected at the interconnected corners. In this way, the plurality of pontoons may include arrays of pontoons that extend in orthogonal directions, and that include pontoons that are spaced apart along the arrays.

In an embodiment, the pontoons of the plurality of pontoons are mechanically interconnected by means of interconnection elements. Preferably, the interconnection elements are flexible. The interconnection elements preferably are coupled to one or more of the coupling elements that are attached to the solid structures of the pontoons, for enabling a mechanical coupling to the structural element by means of the one or more coupling elements.

In an embodiment, the pontoons are interconnected, alternatively or additionally to the interconnection elements, by the frame, in particular by the frame elements, to which the at least one solar panel, and preferably the plurality of solar panels, is attached. Thus, in an embodiment, adjacent pontoons of the solar energy system are interconnected by a frame to which the at least one solar panel is attached.

In an embodiment, a distance of overlap of two pontoons that are interconnected by at least one of the interconnection elements, is at most 100 centimetre, preferably at most 80 centimetre, more preferably at most 50 centimetre. In an embodiment, a distance of overlap of two pontoons that are interconnected by at least one of the interconnection elements, is at least 5 centimetre, preferably at least 10 centimetre, more preferably at least 15 centimetre.

In an embodiment, the plurality of pontoons includes an array of pontoons, wherein adjacent pontoons of the array of pontoons are spaced apart in a direction along the array so that the adjacent pontoons define intermediate spaces in between the pontoons of said array of pontoons. Preferably, alternating pontoons and intermediate spaces along an array form a uniform patter along the array.

In an embodiment, adjacent pontoons of the plurality of pontoons along another array of pontoons, are spaced apart in a direction along the other array of pontoons that is substantially perpendicular to the array of pontoons. Thus, in an embodiment, the solar energy system may include at least two arrays of pontoons that extend in directions that are substantially perpendicular to each other.

In an embodiment, the plurality of pontoons includes a plurality of, preferably similar, arrays of pontoons. Preferably, the plurality of arrays of pontoons extend in directions that are substantially parallel to each other. Thus, the plurality of arrays of pontoons are preferably aligned. In an embodiment, the plurality of arrays of pontoons include at least 50 arrays. Preferably, the arrays of the plurality of arrays of pontoons includes at least 50 pontoons per array.

In an embodiment, adjacent arrays of the plurality of arrays of pontoons are offset with respect to each other. This may be achieved for example by mechanically interconnecting the pontoons of one array with the pontoons of an aligned adjacent array, near corners of the pontoons, so that the pontoons of said one array are mechanically connected to two pontoons of said aligned adjacent array. Preferably, a pontoon is mechanically connected at each of its corners to different pontoons. As a result of the offset, a plurality of the other arrays of pontoons is formed that extend in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the direction in which the plurality of arrays of pontoons extend.

In an embodiment, a first plurality of solar panels is provided above a pontoon and not above an intermediate space in between adjacent pontoons along the array of pontoons, a second plurality of solar panels is provided above an intermediate space in between adjacent pontoons along the array of pontoons and not above a pontoon, and/or a third plurality of solar panels is provided above a pontoon and above an intermediate space in between adjacent pontoons along the array of pontoons.

In an embodiment, in a vertical projection, a total surface area occupied by the plurality of solar panels is larger than a total surface area occupied by the pontoons. This may be achieved by overlap, in a vertical projection, of the solar panels and the water surface between pontoons that are space apart from each other.

Thus, in an embodiment, the plurality of solar panels, when seen downwards from the vertical direction, may be partly above the water surface and not above a pontoon. In this way, the intermediate space between pontoons may be used efficiently and the number of pontoons may be decreased.

In an embodiment, the solar energy system includes the frame that includes the plurality of frame elements by which the plurality of pontoons are interconnected and to which the plurality of solar panels are attached, wherein the pontoons, the frame elements and the solar panels are dimensioned so that, in a vertical projection (or, in other words, when seen from the vertical direction in a two-dimensional view), the total surface area occupied by the plurality of solar panels is at least 1,2 times, preferably at least 1,5 times, a total surface area occupied by the pontoons.

Preferably, the frame supports solar panels that are, partly or completely, above the water surface.

Preferably, the solar energy system does not including plastic materials.

Optionally, the solar energy system includes at most 10 wt. %, preferably at most 5 wt. 9%, more preferably at most 1 wt. % of plastic materials. Experiments have shows that plastic materials are relatively vulnerable, and may reduce a durability of the solar energy system.

The invention also provides the pontoon in assembly with a mould that is arranged for manufacturing the structural element, wherein at least part of the float is positioned in and/or is surrounded by the mould, and wherein the mould defines a shape and/or one or more dimensions of the structural element, for example of the cavity of the structural element, of the sidewardly extending part of the structural element, and/or of the downwardly projecting part of the structural element. Thus, in an embodiment, the pontoon is provided in assembly with the mould.

In an embodiment, an upper surface of the mould is substantially flush with the upper surface of the sidewardly extending part above the cavity 20 In this way, the mould may optionally define the thickness of the sidewardly extending part above the float of the structural element.

Preferably, the mould is oriented so that the cavity is open in a downward direction. Such orientation is surprising, as it prevents access to the cavity, or at least makes such access more difficult. By forming the cavity on and around the float by making the fluidic material flow above and/or beside the float, preferably by pouring the fluidic material into the mould, the float is provided at least partly in the cavity without having to move the structural element and/or the float relative to each other. Thus, a need for access to the cavity for providing the float as least partly in the cavity, may be prevented. Preferably, the float extends downwardly out of the cavity.

In an embodiment, the solid structure that reinforces the structural element is positioned in the mould. Preferably, the solid structure forms a horizontal grid that extends sidewardly in the structural element, in particular in the sidewardly extending part of the structural element. Preferably, the solid structure is, at least partly, surrounded by the solidified fluidic material. Preferably, the solid structure extends in, more preferably substantially through, the mould.

In an embodiment, one or more coupling elements are attached to the solid structure, for enabling a mechanical coupling to the structural element by means of the one or more coupling elements. This may enable durability of the attachment between the one ore more coupling elements and the structural element.

A coupling element preferably includes a tube with internal threading, such as a screw sleeve. The one or more coupling elements preferably are contained inside an outer envelop of the structural element, i.e. do not project out of the structural element. The one or more coupling elements may be arranged for receiving a threaded connecting bolt or screw, e.g. to connect an eye coupling attached to the connecting bolt or screw, or to connect an interconnection element to the pontoon that is arranged to connect the pontoon to another pontoon. The connecting bolt or screw may include stainless steel, and preferably is made substantially of stainless steel. Using coupling elements of pontoons, pontoons of a plurality of pontoons can be mechanically interconnected by means of interconnection elements.

In an embodiment, the float is attached to the solid structure. Preferably, attachment elements are attached to the float, while the solid structure is attached to the attachment elements. The attachment elements may thus preferably form float coupling elements. This may enable durability of the attachment between the float and the structural element.

Preferably, the protective layer is positioned on the bottom of the mould and against an inner side of the mould. Preferably, the float is positioned on the protective layer that is positioned on the bottom of the mould.

The invention also provides a method of manufacturing a pontoon that is arranged to be included by a solar energy system that is provided with at least one solar panel and is arranged to float on a water surface by means of at least the pontoon, the method including: manufacturing of a structural element of the pontoon that has a composition so that the structural element as such does not float on said water surface; providing a float of the pontoon that has a composition so that the float as such does float on said water surface; and providing the float at least partly in a cavity that is provided in the structural element.

According to an aspect, manufacturing the structural element includes making a fluidic material flow along, e.g. at least above, the float and includes solidification of the fluidic material, so that the structural element includes a part that extends sidewardly above the cavity and a thickness of the sidewardly extending part of the structural element at a position above the cavity is at least 4 centimetre or is at least 4 centimetre and at most 12 centimetre.

According to another aspect, the structural element has an upper surface, wherein a ratio of a weight of the structural element and an area of the upper surface in a vertical projection, is at least 125 kilogram per square metre, preferably at least 125 kilogram per square metre, more preferably at least 175 kilogram per square metre, and/or is at most 350 kilogram per square metre, preferably at most 310 kilogram per square metre, more preferably at most 280 kilogram per square metre.

In an embodiment, a ratio of a weight of the sidewardly extending part of the structural element above the cavity and an area of the upper surface of the structural element above the cavity in a vertical projection, is at least 120 kilogram per square metre, preferably at least 140 kilogram per square metre, more preferably at least

165 kilogram per square metre. Preferably, a ratio of a weight of the sidewardly extending part of the structural element above the cavity and an area of the upper surface in a vertical projection, is at most 330 kilogram per square metre, preferably at most 295 kilogram per square metre, more preferably at most 265 kilogram per square metre.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will be illustrated with reference to the following non-limiting figures, wherein:

Figure 1A shows, in an embodiment, a schematic perspective view of a floating solar energy system including a floating pontoon;

Figure 1B shows a schematic cross section of the pontoon of figure 1A, in a plane that is perpendicular to a side of the pontoon;

Figure 2 schematically illustrates, in an embodiment, an assembly of a pontoon and a mould that is arranged for manufacturing the pontoon;

Figure 3 schematically illustrates, in an embodiment, a float and a structural element of a pontoon in assembly with a mould that is arranged for manufacturing the pontoon;

Figure 4A shows a schematic top view of an embodiment of a pontoon;

Figure 4B shows a detail of figure 4A;

Figure 4C shows a cross section indicated in figure 4B;

Figure 5A shows, in a schematic top view, a plurality of pontoons that are interconnected;

Figure 5B shows a detail of figure 5A, illustrating a mechanical connection between two pontoons;

Figure 5C shows, in a cross section indicated in figure 5B, a mechanical connection between two pontoons;

Figure 6A shows, in a schematic side view, an example of a frame element to which a solar panel is attached; and

Figure 6B shows a schematic top view of a part of an embodiment of a solar energy system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Figure 1A shows a schematic perspective view of a floating solar energy system 2, in an embodiment according to the invention. The solar energy system is provided with at least one solar panel 12. The solar energy system may be provided with a plurality of solar panels, e.g. with two rows of four solar panels 12 as illustrated in figure 1A. The solar energy system 2 is arranged to float on a water surface 4 of a pond, lake, river, and/or sea. A part of the solar energy system 2 that is lower than the water surface 4 on which the solar energy system 2 floats, is not visible in figure 1A.

Figure 1A further shows, in an embodiment according to the invention, a pontoon 10 that is included by the solar energy system 2. Figure 1B shows a schematic cross section of the pontoon 10, in a plane that is perpendicular to a long side 6 of the pontoon. The pontoon includes a structural element 14, to which the plurality of solar panels 12 may be attached by means of a plurality of frame elements 15. The frame elements 15 and the solar panels 12 may be provided to the pontoon while the pontoon is floating on the water surface.

As illustrated in figure 1A, the solar panels 12 may generally be positioned above at least part of the structural element 14 and/or the pontoon 10. Thus, the solar panels 12 may overlap with at least part of the structural element 14 and/or the pontoon 10, when seen from the vertical direction. The plurality of solar panels may include one or more pairs of solar panels that are positioned substantially in a V- shape, the V being upside down. In use, the structural element 14 is positioned above at least part of the float 16. The at least one solar panel, e.g. a plurality of solar panels, may be positioned above at least part of the structural element 14 and above at least part of the float 16.

The structural element has a composition so that the structural element as such does not float on said water surface. Thus, a specific gravity of the structural element 14 may be larger than the specific gravity of the water forming said water surface 4 (the specific gravity of said water may be regarded to be equal to one).

Generally, the density of the structural element may be at least 1500 kilogram per cubic metre or at least 2000 kilogram per cubic metre, e.g. about 2400 kilogram per cubic metre. The structural element 14 may provide strength and durability to the pontoon. As illustrated in figure 1A, the structural element may have a substantially rectangular shape in an, in use, horizontal cross section. Of course, other shapes are possible as well. Density and specific gravity may be determined based on a volume of the structural element within its outside boundaries and based on a weight of the structural element.

The pontoon further includes a float 16. The float 16 and the structural element 14 may, in use, be attached to each other. The float 16 has a composition so that the float 16 as such does float on the water surface 4. Thus, a specific gravity of the float may be smaller than the specific gravity of the water forming said water surface 4. Generally, the density of the float may be e.g. at most 600 kilogram per cubic metre, at most 300 kilogram per cubic metre, at most 100 kilogram per cubic metre, or at most 50 kilogram per cubic metre. If the density is relatively low, the required size of the float may be relatively small so that it is easier to protect in the cavity. On the other hand, materials with a relatively low density may be relatively vulnerable. Density and specific gravity may be determined based on a volume of the tloat within its outside boundaries and based on a weight of the float.

As is visible in figure 1B, the structural element 14 is provided with a cavity 20. The cavity may be shaped for receiving at least part of the float 16. The cavity may for example be shaped as a substantially rectangular box. In the example shown in figure 1B, the float 16 is provided partly in the cavity 20. Thus, the float 16 may project partly out of the cavity. Alternatively, the float may be provided completely in the cavity 20. The cavity 20 may be open in an, in use, downward direction. The structural element may include an, in use, sidewardly extending upper part 22 and a lower part 24 that projects downwards from the upper part. A top surface 60 of the pontoon may be formed by an upper surface 23 of the sidewardly extending upper part 22 of the structural element 14. The upper part 22 and the lower part 24 may together define the cavity 20. The structural element 14 may have an outer circumference 30. The outer circumference 30 may be defined by the side surfaces 6 of the structural element 14 of the pontoon 10.

In another embodiment, the pontoon may include another sidewardly extending part, e.g. a sidewardly extending part that is not an upper part of the structural element. Thus, more in general, the structural element 14 may include a part 25 that extends sidewardly above the cavity. Thus, at least part of the part 25 may be positioned higher than, and in a vertical projection overlap with, at least part of the cavity. The sidewardly extending part 25 in the embodiment of figure 1B may be formed by the sidewardly extending upper part 22. A thickness Dy of the sidewardly extending part 25 of the structural element at a position Y above the cavity is at least 4 centimetre. Additionally, the thickness D; of the sidewardly extending part 25 at the position Y above the cavity may be at most 12 centimetre.

The thickness D; may for example be approximately 7 centimetre. The thickness Dy being at least 4 centimetre and/or at most 12 centimetre, may enable a pontoon that is relatively durable and with a float that is not too large. Moreover, such a thickness may enable a repair technician to stand and walk on the sidewardly extending part.

This may facilitate building and repairing the solar energy system.

One or both of said ranges for the thickness D; may be applied to other positions above the cavity as well. One or both of these ranges may be applied to a majority, e.g. at least 70 %, at least 90 %, or approximately 100 % (or, in other words, the whole), of an area 29 of the sidewardly extending part above the cavity (i.e., an area higher than and overlapping with the cavity). The area 29 may be along a sidewardly extending cross section F-F’ that extends through the part 25 of the structural element that extends sidewardly above the cavity. Alternatively, the area 29 above the cavity 20 may be along an upper surface 33 or along a lower surface 35 of the sidewardly extending part 25. Thus, the thickness D; of the sidewardly extending part 25 of the structural element 14 may be at least 4 centimetre and/or at most 12 centimetre along a majority, e.g. at least 70%, at least 90 %, or approximately 100 %, of the area 29 of the sidewardly extending part above the cavity 20.

The sidewardly extending part 25 may be longitudinally shaped in two, preferably horizontal, directions that are perpendicular to each other and may be directed sidewards. The sidewardly extending part 25 may extend in the two orthogonal sideward directions 27A, 27B along a width respectively length of the pontoon 10. The sidewardly extending part 25 may be formed substantially as a plate. The plate may be substantially continuous.

In an embodiment, a ratio of a weight of the structural element and an area of the upper surface 37 of the structural element in a vertical projection (or, in other words, when seen from the vertical direction in a two-dimensional view), may be at least 125 kilogram per square metre, preferably at least 150 kilogram per square metre, more preferably at least 175 kilogram per square metre. A ratio of a weight of the structural element 14 and an area of the upper surface 37 in a vertical projection, may be at most 350 kilogram per square metre, preferably at most 310 kilogram per square metre, more preferably at most 280 kilogram per square metre, e.g. about 225 kilogram per square metre.

Additionally, or alternatively, approximately similar ranges may be applied to a ratio of a weight of the sidewardly extending part of the structural element above the cavity and an area of the upper surface of the structural element above the cavity in a vertical projection. A ratio of a weight of the sidewardly extending part of the structural element above the cavity and an area of the upper surface of the structural element above the cavity in a vertical projection, may be at least 120 kilogram per square metre, preferably at least 140 kilogram per square metre, more preferably at least 165 kilogram per square metre. A ratio of a weight of the sidewardly extending part of the structural element above the cavity and an area of the upper surface above the cavity in a vertical projection, may be at most 330 kilogram per square metre, preferably at most 295 kilogram per square metre, more preferably at most 265 kilogram per square metre, e.g. may be approximately 215 kilogram per square metre. Such ranges for these ratio’s may be achieved for example by using concrete in the composition of the structural element. Preferably, a majority of a mass of at least the sidewardly extending part of the structural element is made of concrete.

The float may have a thickness D5 in an vertical, or upward, direction, below the position Y above the cavity 20. A ratio of the thickness D; of the sidewardly extending part of the structural element and the thickness D3 of the float may be at least 0,1 and/or is at most 0,3. The ratio of the thickness D; of the sidewardly extending part of the structural element and the thickness Dj of the float may be at least 0,15 and/or at most 0,2, and preferably is approximately 0,18. The ratio of the thickness Dj of the sidewardly extending part 25 of the structural element and the thickness Ds of the float may be at least 0,1 or at least 0,15, and/or may be at most 0,2 or at most 0,3, along a majority, e.g. at least 70 %, at least 90 %, or approximately 100 %, of the area 29 above the cavity. The thickness D of the float 16 may be at least 0,25 metre and/or at most 0,70 metre, along a majority, e.g. at least 70 %, at least 90 %, or approximately 100 %, of the area 29 above the cavity.

The downwardly projecting lower part 24 may be positioned near the outer circumference 30 of the structural element 14. The downwardly projecting lower part 24 may extend along a part of, or along substantially the whole of, the circumference 30. The downwardly projecting lower part 24 may form a protective member, such as a wall, that completely circumvents the cavity 20. Alternatively, the downwardly projecting lower part 24 circumvents the cavity 20 partly, e.g. because openings are provided in the downwardly projecting lower part 24 that may reduce a weight of the pontoon. The downwardly projecting lower part 24 may protect the cavity 20 i.a. from current, waves, and ultraviolet radiation included by solar radiation (or, in other words, UV radiation). In the example of figure 1B, the downwardly projecting lower part 24 may provide such protection in particular to an upper portion of the float 16.

The structural element 14 may have an, in use, lower surface 32. The downwardly projecting lower part 24 may define at least part of the lower surface 32 of the structural element 14. At least part of the lower surface of the structural element 32 may be formed by a lower surface 38 of the downwardly projecting lower part 24. The cavity 20 provided in the structural element 16 may be open in an, in use, downward direction 34. In this way, a cavity can be provided that, in combination, provides significant protection to the float 16, is relatively easy to manufacture, and allows for convenient attachment of the float and the structural element to each other.

The structural element will, in use, provide a downward gravitational force on the pontoon. The tloat, when completely or partially submerged, will provide an upward force on the pontoon. The cavity, in combination with an, in use, upward force on the float and a downward force on the structural element, may already realize the attachment of both parts of the pontoon to each other, by substantially preventing sideward and downward motion of the float relative to the structural element 14. In addition, or alternatively, for example glue, screws, and/or other means of attachment may be used for attaching the float and the structural element to each other.

The composition and a volume of the structural element and of the float are designed so that the pontoon floats on the water surface. The pontoon floats on the water surface if it is partly higher than the water surface, when the water surface is still (i.e, substantially without waves and current). The composition and the volume of the structural element and of the float may be designed so that, in use and while the water surface 4 is substantially free of waves and preferably is substantially free of current, a majority of the downwardly projecting lower part is higher than the water surface. In general, in use the pontoon may be floating on the water surface, optionally being connected to one or more other pontoons, being provided with one or more solar panels, and/or being included in a solar energy system.

The downwardly projecting lower part 24 may have a height Da. The sidewardly extending upper part 22 may have a height D, (or, in other words, a thickness Di}. When floating on a still water surface, the downwardly projecting lower part may be above the water surface, or may be partly lower than the water surface. Preferably, in use of the solar energy system floating on a still water surface, the downwardly projecting lower part is lower than the water surface for at most 30

% of its height Da, or for at most 10 % of its height Da. Thus, the lower surface 38 of the downwardly projecting lower part 24 may be near the water surface, preferably above the water surface. Such a downwardly projecting part enables a relatively light pontoon, while still offering protection to the float.

In another embodiment, the composition and a volume of the structural element and of the float are designed so that, in use and while the water surface is substantially free of waves and preferably is substantially free of current (e.g. with a wave height smaller than 0,1 metre and preferably a current smaller than 0,1 metre per second), a majority of the downwardly projecting lower part is lower than the water surface. For example, the downwardly projecting lower part is lower than a still water surface for at least 50 © of its height Da and/or at most 80 % of its height

Da. This enables a relative good protection of the float. Optionally, the float does not project out of the cavity, i.e. is contained inside the cavity.

More in general, the composition and a volume, of both the structural element and the float, may be designed so that a top surface 31 of the float is higher than a still water surface level. This may reduce, or substantially prevent, water penetrating, via the cavity, directly into the sidewardly extending upper part 22.

Moreover, it may be more difficult for water to reach means of attachment such as one or more float coupling elements, which may be used for attaching the float and the structural element to each other. This may increase a durability of the pontoon, in particular when floating on a salt water surface such as a sea water surface.

Typical dimensions of the structural element and the float of the pontoon 10 may be for example: a width Ws of the structural element at an upper surface 36 of the structural element, may be at least 2 metre and/or at most 3 metre, preferably about 2,4 metre; a width Wy of the float may be at least 1,5 metre and/or at most 2,5 metre, preferably about 2,0 metre; a width Ti of the downwardly projecting lower part at a lower surface 38 of the downwardly projecting lower part may be at least 12 centimetre and/or at most 22 centimetre, preferably about 17 centimetre; and/or a sidewards extension Ty of the upper part of the structural element beyond the float at an upper surface 36 of the structural element, may be at least 15 centimetre and/or at most 25 centimetre, preferably about 20 centimetre.

The downwardly projecting lower part 24 may be tapered in the downward direction 34. Thus, a width Tj of the downwardly projecting lower part at its lower surface 38 may be smaller than the sidewards extension Ty of the upper part 22 of the structural element 14 beyond the float 16 (i.e., not above the float 16). Such dimensions may be chosen after experimentation and calculation, and enable a pontoon that is stable and enduring under challenging conditions such as relatively strong winds, deep and/or salt water, and intense UV-radiation from sunlight. The downwardly projecting lower part 24 may be shaped to define an, in use, overhanging side 6 of the structural element 14, as illustrated in figure 1B. Such an overhang may prevent, or at least discourage, harmful animals like rats to enter an upper surface 36 of the structural element 14. One or more thin ropes, such as fishing lines, may be provided above and/or near the one or more solar panels 12.

This may enable preventing birds to sit on and/or near the one or more solar panels 12.

The dimensions and properties of the structural element 14 and of the float 16 may also be designed for realising favourable dynamic properties of the solar energy system, and in particular of the pontoon 10. For example, the composition and dimensions of the float and of the pontoon may be designed so that, in use, a natural oscillation time of the pontoon is at least 10 seconds, preferably ay least 15 seconds, e.g. about 20 seconds or at least 20 seconds. As another example, the composition and the volume of the structural element and of the float may be designed so that a centre of gravity of the pontoon is higher than the water surface, preferably is at a height H above a still water surface level that is at least 0,1 metre and/or at most 0,5 metre, preferably at most 0,3 metre. A centre of gravity that is higher than the water surface, is surprising in view of desired stability. A centre of gravity that is too high, may lead to instability of the solar energy system and of the pontoon.

More in general, a ratio of the height H of the centre of gravity of the centre of the solar energy system above the still water surface level, and a smallest lateral (i.e.,

in use substantial horizontal) dimension of the float (e.g. the width Wg), may be at most 0,25, preferably at most 0,20, more preferably at most 0,15, e.g. about 0,10. A sidewards dimension of the float, such as the width Wr of the float, may for example be at least 1,5 metre, preferably at least 2 metre. Thus, the composition and dimensions, of the structural element and of the float, may be designed so that, in use and while the water surface is substantially free of waves and preferably is substantially free of current, a centre of gravity of the pontoon is higher than the water surface, preferably is at most 20 % of a lateral dimension of the float above the water surface level.

The structural element 14 may include a solidified material. The solidified material may originate from a fluidic material. Thus, the composition of the structural element 14 may include said solidified material. The fluidic material may have flowed along, e.g. above and/or beside, the float. As a result, the solidified material may extend, preferably continuously, above and/or beside the cavity. Thus, at least part of the structural element 14 may continuously extend above and/or beside the float. A continuously extending part of the structural element may e.g. be substantially free of interfaces that are within said part of the structural element and can be freely separated and moved relative to each other and without damaging said part of the structural element. The sidewardly extending upper part 22 of the structural element 14, and the downwardly projection part 24 of the structural element 14, may be made substantially of one piece formed by the solidified fluidic material.

The fluidic material may be a suspension, for example a concrete suspension.

Such a concrete suspension may include water, sand, and cement. The fluidic material may have solidified to form the structural element 14. Solidification may include e.g. drying of the fluidic material and/or chemical reaction of the fluidic material. Thus, the solidified material may originate from the fluidic material by drying of the fluidic material or by a chemical reaction of the fluidic material. The structural element 14 may be moulded. Moulding may include pouring the fluidic material in the mould and may include the solidification. As a result of the solidification, the cavity 20 may be formed. For example, concrete may have hardened (i.e. solidified) on and around at least part of the float 16, to form the cavity 20. The solidified fluidic material may be formed at least partly by concrete, in such a way that the structural element includes at least 70 weight percent (herein also referred to as wt. ©) concrete, preferably at least go wt. % concrete. A majority of a mass of the structural element and/or the pontoon may generally be made of concrete.

Figure 2 schematically illustrates, in an embodiment of the invention, a pontoon 10 in assembly with a mould that is arranged for manufacturing the pontoon. After it is released from the mould, the pontoon 10 may be part of the solar energy system that is arranged to float on a water surface. The pontoon comprises a structural element 14 and a float 16. The structural element has a composition so that the structural element as such, i.e. the structural element itself, does not float on said water surface. The structural element 14 may include at least 70 wt. % solidified concrete, preferably at least 90 wt. % solidified concrete. The float has a composition so that the float as such, i.e. the float itself, does float on said water surface. The float may include at least 70 wt. % expanded polystyrene, preferably at least go wt. % expanded polystyrene. After release from the mould, the pontoon may be included by the solar energy system and be provided with at least one solar panel, preferably with a plurality of solar panels (as illustrated e.g. in figure 1A).

As also illustrated in the embodiment of figure 1B, the float is provided at least partly in a cavity 20 that is provided in the structural element 14. At least part of the structural element 14 is positioned above the float 16 or a part thereof. The structural element 14, in particular its upper part 22, may e.g. be positioned on top of the float 16, as illustrated in figure 1B. The structural element may be moulded by means of the mould. As illustrated in figure 2, as a result of manufacturing the pontoon, at least part of the pontoon may be positioned in the mould and may be surrounded by the mould 46. The float 16 may e.g. be positioned on a bottom 48 of an inner space 47 of the mould 46. In other embodiments, the float 16 may project out of the bottom of the mould, so that the bottom of the mould surrounds the float.

In such embodiments, the float may extend vertically to a lower position than the bottom of the inner space of the mould.

The mould 46, in particular the inner space 47 thereof, may define a shape and/or one or more dimensions of the structural element 14, in particular of the cavity 20 of the structural element 14. Such defining may be a result of the manufacturing of the pontoon, which may include making a fluidic material flow above and/or beside the float in the mould so that at least part of the solidified material extends above and/or beside the cavity. Flow of the fluidic material may be limited by the mould. Manufacturing may include pouring the fluidic material, preferably a concrete suspension, into the inner space 47 of the mould 46 for manufacturing the structural element 14. Preferably, the fluidic material is an aerated concrete suspension. Aerated concrete may reduce a weight of the structural element.

As illustrated in figure 2, the structural element may include a solid structure 50, The solid structure may be positioned in the inner space 47 of the mould 46. The solid structure may be positioned at least partly above the float, preferably attached to the float. The solid structure may form a horizontal grid that extends sidewardly in the structural element, in particular in the sidewardly extending part of the structural element. The solid structure 50 may e.g. be substantially made of steel.

The solid structure may form a reinforcement of the structural element, or may at least form part of such reinforcement. Such use of the solid structure combines well with making the fluidic material flow above and/or beside the float so that at least part of the solidified material extends above and/or beside the cavity. As a result of the flow, the solid structure may be surrounded and thus well attached to the structural element.

One or more coupling elements 52 may be attached to the solid structure.

Such attaching may enable a relatively strong mechanical coupling to the structural element by means of the one or more coupling elements 52. The one or more coupling elements may be attached to the solid structure before making the fluidic material flow in the inner space 47 of the mould, or at least before making some of the fluidic material flow in the mould. The one or more coupling elements may e.g. be welded to the solid structure 50, or may be mechanically connected to the solid structure 50 in another way.

A coupling element 52 may enable a mechanical coupling to the structural element 14 by means of the coupling element. The coupling element 52 may include a tube provided with an internal thread, such as a screw sleeve. A connecting bolt or screw may be screwed into such a tube. The connecting bolt or screw may e.g. be provided with an eye that extends out of the structural element 14. Thus, the coupling element may be arranged for receiving a threaded connecting bolt or connecting screw, e.g. to connect to the pontoon an eye coupling that is attached to the connecting bolt or connecting screw. A rope or cable may be attached to such an eye coupling. The eye and the rope or cable may be used for lifting the pontoon or for restricting movement of the pontoon when it is floating.

Alternatively, the coupling element may be used to connect, by means of a connecting bolt or connecting screw, screwed into the coupling element, an interconnection element to the pontoon. The interconnection element may be used to connect the pontoon to another pontoon. Thus, using coupling elements of pontoons, pontoons can be mechanically interconnected by means of interconnection elements that are attached to two or more coupling elements 52. The coupling elements 52 can be used to connect to the pontoon’s solid structure an interconnection element that can be used to mechanically connect the pontoon’s solid structure to the solid structure of another pontoon.

A coupling element 52 may be contained inside an outer envelop of the structural element 14, so that it does not project out of the structural element 14. An example of such a coupling element is shown in figure 2 with reference number 52B.

In a variation, the coupling element 52 may extend outside the structural element.

An example of such a coupling element is shown in figure 2 with reference number 52A. The coupling element 52 may include an eye coupling. An outer surface of the coupling elements 52 may be provided with projections in order to improve attachment to surrounding solidified fluidic material.

One or more float coupling elements 56 may be attached to the solid structure. The one ore more float coupling elements 56 may e.g. be threaded, and may be screwed into the float. The float coupling elements may broaden in a direction away from the float, enabling an improved attachment to the structural element. After attachment to the float, the one or more float coupling elements may be attached, e.g. glued or welded, to the solid structure 50. The solid structure 50 and the float may be positioned in the mould 46, preferably attached to each other, before making at least part of the fluidic material flow into the mould.

It may thus be clear that figure 2 shows, in a schematic cross section, the structural element after making the fluidic material, such as a concrete suspension, flow into the mould. Before solidification, the fluidic material 54 optionally flowed along, e.g. above and beside, the float 16 as a result of, for example, pouring the fluidic material into the mould. The solid structure 50 may, at least partly and preferably completely, be surrounded by the fluidic material as a result of making the fluidic material flow into the mould 46. After solidification, the solidified fluidic material extends above and/or beside the cavity. As a result, the structural element includes the solidified fluidic material. As is visible in figure 2, the fluidic material may have solidified above and beside the float, and around the float, to form the cavity. After solidification the poured material may form at least part of the structural element 14.

Figure 3 schematically shows, in an embodiment of the invention, the float 16 and the structural element 14. The embodiment of figure 3 is a variation of the embodiment of figure 2. Figure 3 also shows the mould 46 that is arranged for manufacturing the structural element 14 of the pontoon. Manufacturing the pontoon may include making a fluidic material flow in an inner space 47 of the mould 46, for manufacturing the structural element. The solidified fluidic material may form at least part of the structural element. After providing, e.g. pouring, the fluidic material in the mould, the fluid material may be shaped and/or dimensioned according to boundaries set by the mould. The mould may thus define a shape and/or one or more dimensions of the structural element 14, in particular of the cavity of the structural element. The mould may also define the thickness D, of the sidewardly extending part 25 above the float of the structural element, if an upper surface 39 of the mould is substantially flush with the upper surface 33 of the sidewardly extending part 25 above the cavity 20 (as schematically illustrated in figures 2 and 3). The structural element may be manufactured by making a fluidic material flow along the float and by solidification of the fluidic material. As a result, the structural element may include the part 25 that extends sidewardly above the cavity. The thickness Dy of the sidewardly extending part of the structural element at a position above the cavity is at least 4 centimetre or is at least 4 centimetre and at most 12 centimetre.

The mould 46 may have a mould bottom 48 that defines a lower boundary of the inner space 47. The mould may be provided with a side plateau go that extends along an inner side 92 of the mould 46. The inner side 92 and the side plateau go may further define a boundary of the inner space 47 of the mould. The side plateau may be substantially horizontal. The side plateau may e.g. define the lower surface 38 of the downwardly projecting lower part 24 of of the structural element 14 that is illustrated with reference to figure 1B. The side plateau may limit a downward flow of the fluidic material. As a result, the mould may be provided with openings at positions that are positioned lower than the side plateau. This enables a relatively light mould that can be displaced relatively easily.

In the embodiment illustrated with reference to figure 3, the float 16 that has a composition so that the float as such does float on said water surface. The float may be provided in the mould 46. As shown in figure 3, the float may be provided in the mould and may be surrounded by the mould. A protective layer 98 may also be provided in the mould. The protective layer may be provided on the bottom 48 of the mould 46 and on the inner side 92 of the mould 46. The protective layer may be provided in between the float and the mould 46. Thus, the protective layer may cover the bottom 48 and inner side 92 of the mould.

The protective layer may be wrapped around at least part of the float 16. A lower part 98A of the protective layer may be positioned against the float 16 by the mould. An upper part 98B may be held in place, after wrapping the upper part around part of the float, by attaching the upper part of the protective against the float 16, e.g. by means of tape. Figure 3 shows an example of the cover layer wrapped around part of the float 16.

The mould 46 may include a plurality of wedges 94 and a plurality of filling pieces 96. By means of the wedge and the filling piece, a tight connection may be realised with the float or with the protective layer. Alternatively, the side plateau may be substantially continuous. The side plateau may be designed to snugly fit around the float 16, preferably around the float wrapped in the protective layer 98.

The wedge and filling piece may be omitted. The mould e.g. may be made out of wood and/or a metallic material such as steel. Preferably, a mould substantially made of a metallic material such as steel is used that snugly fits around the float and protective layer provided against at least part of the float.

The side plateau 90 may substantially form a lower boundary for the fluidic material poured in the mould. An inner side part of the mould positioned higher than the side plateau 90 may be substantially sealed. At positions lower than the side plateau 90, there may be provided openings in the mould. Such openings may reduce a weight of the mould, while leakage of the fluidic material during manufacturing of the structural element may be substantially prevented by the side plateau keeping the fluidic material higher than said openings.

The wrapped protective layer 98 may be fixed to the float by means of the structural element. Thus, the float of the pontoon can be provided with a protective layer for protection of the float. The float may, at least partly, be covered by the protective layer, such as an anti-rooting membrane. Other types of the protective layer 98 may also be used, in particular a protective layer that is substantially free of plastic. The protective layer may have a thickness of at least 0,05 millimetre and/or at most 5 millimetre, preferably about 0,1 millimetre or about 0,2 millimetre. Except for the anti-rooting membrane, the pontoon may be substantially free of plastic elements.

In the assembly of the pontoon and the mould, the pontoon may be in the mould (as show in figure 3) or may be released from the mould. The inner side part of the mould that is positioned higher than the side plateau go, may be inclined so that a distance with the float increases when going in an upwards direction. This facilitates release of the pontoon from the mould by lifting the pontoon. Preferably, after release, the pontoon is on a truck or trailer for transporting the pontoon, e.g. towards the water surface. Preferably, a plurality of pontoons are stacked vertically on the truck or trailer.

Figures 2 and 3 thus illustrate embodiments of a pontoon for a floating solar energy system. It may be clear from figures 2 and 3 that a shape and one or more dimensions of the cavity, such as a width of the cavity (which may be substantially equal to the width Wr of the float), may be defined by the float during the manufacturing of the structural element. The embodiments illustrated with reference to figures 2 and 3 enable an efficient way of manufacturing, wherein the float and the structural element, and preferably also the solid structure and/or the protective layer, are included in the pontoon. Such efficiency is advantageous, in view of the large amount of pontoons that may be included in a solar energy system.

The pontoon in these embodiments may be manufactured without moving the structural element. As the float is usually light and relatively easy to move, said embodiments offer an advantageous way of manufacturing, in particular manufacturing in large quantities. More in general, as illustrated in the embodiments of figures 2 and 3, the pontoon may be included in a solar energy system in a similar orientation as wherein it is made (i.e., with at least part of the structural element positioned above the float or a part thereof). After release from the mould, the pontoon can be conveniently lifted, loaded to a truck or trailer, and transported.

Figure 4A shows a schematic top view of a pontoon 10, in an embodiment of the invention. Figure 4B shows a detail of figure 4A. Figure 4C shows a cross section

E-E’ indicated in figure 4B. As illustrated in the embodiment of figures 4A-4C, the structural element 14 of the pontoon may include a plurality, e.g. twelve, coupling elements 52. The coupling elements may be positioned at a local recess 58 that may be provided on a top surface 60 of the pontoon. For example, a pair of coupling elements may be provided at a local recess 58. The top surface 60 of the pontoon may be formed by an upper surface of the structural element 14. The coupling elements 52 illustrated in figures 4A-4C may be used for providing eyes to the pontoon 10, in order to be able to lift the pontoon. The eyes may be fixed to threaded boults that are screwed into the coupling elements. At a later instance, the eyes and boults may be removed from the coupling elements, preferably leaving a substantially flat top surface 60. Of course, coupling elements 52 can be positioned on other positions on the pontoon and/or for other purposes as well.

Figure 5A schematically shows a plurality of pontoons 10 of a solar energy system. The pontoons may be provided with a plurality of solar panels that are electrically connected. The solar energy system may be arranged for generating electrical energy from solar radiation by means of the electrically connected solar panels. The plurality of pontoons may have one or more features of the pontoon described with reference to figures 1A-4C. The plurality of pontoons 10 of the solar energy system may be mechanically interconnected, via one or more interconnection elements and optionally via one or more pontoons of said plurality of pontoons. The interconnected pontoons may leave open intermediate spaces 64 between adjacent pontoons along an array 68 of pontoons. Thus, adjacent pontoons of the solar energy system may be spaced apart in a direction 70 along an array 68 of pontoons 10 of the solar energy system.

In an embodiment, adjacent pontoons of the plurality of pontoons along another array 69 of pontoons, are spaced apart in a direction along the other array that is substantially perpendicular to the array 68. Thus, in an embodiment, the solar energy system may include at least two arrays that extend in directions that are substantially perpendicular to each other. Alternating pontoons and intermediate spaces along the array 68 and along the other array 69 may form a uniform pattern along the respective arrays. For example, the size of the pontoons and of the intermediate spaces may be generally uniform along the array and along the other array.

As shown in figure 5A, the plurality of pontoons may include a plurality of similar arrays 68, 68A, 68B. Preferably, the plurality of similar arrays of pontoons extend in directions 70 that are substantially parallel to each other. Thus, as shown in figure 5A, the plurality of arrays of pontoons are preferably aligned. Unlike the amount of arrays shown in figure 5A, the plurality of arrays of pontoons may include at least 50 arrays 68. Unlike the amount of pontoons shown in figure 5A, the arrays of the plurality of arrays of pontoons may include at least 50 pontoons 10 per array 68, 68A, 68B.

Figure 5A illustrates that adjacent arrays 68A, 68B of the plurality of arrays of pontoons may be offset with respect to each other. This may be achieved for example by mechanically interconnecting the pontoons of one array with the pontoons of an aligned adjacent array, near corners of the pontoons 10 so that the pontoons of said one array are mechanically connected to two pontoons of said aligned adjacent array.

It may be clear from figure 5A that a pontoon may be mechanically connected at each of its corners to different pontoons. Thus, the pontoons 10 may be mechanically interconnected with at least one other pontoon 10 near corners of the pontoons.

Thus, each pontoon of a plurality of pontoons may be provided with one or more interconnected corners. As illustrated in figure 5A,, for each pontoon 10 of said plurality the number of interconnected corners may be equal to the number of other pontoons that are interconnected at the interconnected corners.

As a result of the offset, a plurality of the other arrays 69 may be formed that extend in a direction 71 that is substantially perpendicular to the direction 70 in which the plurality of arrays extend. It may thus be clear that adjacent pontoons 10 along the plurality of other arrays 69, are spaced apart by means of the same intermediate spaces 64 as adjacent pontoons 10 of the plurality of arrays 68, 68A, 68B. It may also be clear that the pontoons 10 of the plurality of arrays 68, 68A, 68B, are also the pontoons of the plurality of other arrays 69. The plurality of pontoons 10 may form a checkerboard-like structure.

Figure 5B shows a detail B of figure 5A, illustrating a mechanical connection between two pontoons. Figure 5C shows, in a cross section C-C’ indicated in figure 5B, the mechanical connection between the two pontoons of figure 5B. The mechanical connection may include an interconnection element 72 and connecting bolts 74. The connecting bolts 74 may be screwed into, or otherwise connected to, the coupling elements 52. Thus, the interconnection element 72 may be coupled to one or more of the coupling elements that are included by the structural element 14.

The coupling elements 72 may be arranged to connect, by means of a connecting bolt screwed into the coupling element, an interconnection element to the pontoon that are arranged to connect the pontoon to another pontoon. Using coupling elements of pontoons, a plurality of pontoons of a solar energy system can be mechanically interconnected by means of interconnection elements.

In order to increase a strength of attachment of the coupling elements 52 in the structural element 14, the coupling elements may be mechanically attached to a solid structure provided in the structural element 14. The solid structure is not drawn in figures 5A-5C, but an example of a solid structure is drawn in figure 2 with reference number 50. The connecting bolts may e.g. be substantially made of stainless steel or another type of steel. The interconnection element 72 may be flexible. This may enable pontoons that are interconnected to move relative to each other. In this way, the solar energy system may be better suited to withstand waves on the water surface on which the solar energy system floats. The interconnection element 72 may e.g. be substantially made of a rubber material, such as a durable neoprene rubber.

Preferably, the pontoons of said plurality of pontoons are mechanically interconnected near corners of the pontoons. A distance X of overlap of two pontoons interconnected by the interconnection element, may be in a range between 5 centimetre and 100 centimetre. Preferably, the distance X of overlap is at least 5 centimetre and/or at most 100 centimetre. More preferably, the distance X of overlap is at least 10 centimetre and/or at most 50 centimetre, e.g. about 20 centimetre.

Figure 6A shows, in a schematic side view, an example of a frame element 15 to which two solar panels 12 are attached. The frame element 15 may be made from aluminium, or another material that is relatively light and durable. The frame element 15 may be arranged for positioning the solar panels 12 above at least part of a structural element of a pontoon. The solar panel 12 may be supported by the frame element 15, preferably by a plurality of frame elements 15. A frame that comprises a plurality of frame elements 15 may be arranged for positioning a plurality of solar panels 12. The frame elements 15, whether separate from each other or connected with each other, together may form the frame.

Preferably, a pair of solar panels 12 is attached to a pair of frame elements.

The pair of solar panels may be positioned substantially in a V-shape, the V being upside down. A base 79 of the V-shape may be open. This enables the possibility of motion between the pair of solar panels, which may prevent mechanical stress in the solar panels. In addition, the opening in the base 79 of the V-shape may provide air to flow around the solar panels, thus enabling better cooling of the solar panels.

The frame element 15 may have a substantially triangular shape. The frame element may have a base part 80. The frame may have two inclined side parts 82 that extend from the base part 80. The side parts 82 may be connected to the base part 80 at connection points 84. The connection points 84 are spaced apart along the base part 80. The side parts 82 may extend from the connection points 84 upwards in an inclined upward directions towards each other. An angle of inclination i of the side parts may, in general, be at least 5 degrees and/or at most 30 degrees, preferably at least 10 degrees and/or at most 25 degrees, more preferably about 18 degrees.

The frame element 15 may be attached to a structural element of a pontoon, and/or to another frame element 15. The frame element 15 may be attached to the structural element, e.g. by means of one or more anchor bolts. The one or more anchor bolts may include stainless steel, and preferably are made substantially of stainless steel. The one or more anchor bolts may extend through an opening in the frame element and into a hole provided in the structural element, e.g. a bore hole.

Preferably, a piece of flexible and/or elastic material, such as rubber, is provided in between the structural element and the frame element 15. The piece of material may allow for limited movement between the frame element 15 and the structural element 14 of the pontoon 10.

Preferably, a solar panel 12 is attached to the frame element 15 by means of at least one moveable, e.g. slidable, lock that allows movement of the at least one solar panel and the frame with respect to each other. The slidable lock may e.g. include a lip and a slot. The lip may extend from the side part 82. The lip may extend upwards from the side part 82 making an angle with the side part 82 that is smaller than 50 degrees, preferably smaller than 30 degrees. The lip may be received in the slot that extends into the solar panel. The lip may prevent downward motion of the solar panel along the side part 82, when the lip is received in the slot. The lip may be moveable through the slot, thus providing a moveable lock. Of course other projections than a lip and/or other openings than the slot can also be applied.

The two side parts may be mechanically connected near a top part 86 of the frame element, e.g. by means of a support part 88 that is included by the frame element 15. The two side parts 82 may be mechanically connected to the support part 88. The support part 88 may be mechanically connected to the base part 80. The support part 88 of the frame element 15 may extend upwards from the base part 80.

The support part 88 may extend substantially perpendicular from the base part 80.

The base part 80 of the frame element 15 may have a base length L;. The base part may extend along a first extension length L, outwards beyond one of the connection points 84 of an inclined side part 82. At another side of the base part 80, the base part 80 may extend along a second extension length L3 outwards beyond another one of the connections points 84 of an inclined side part 82. The first and second extension length may be different from each other or may, in a variation, be equal to each other. A total length Lt of the frame element 15 may equal the sum of the base length, the first extension length and the second extension length. The total length Lt of the frame element 15 may be measured between both frame element ends 85.

The base length L; may be at least 1,8 metre and/or at most 2,8 metre, preferably about 2,2 metre. The first extension length Lo may be at least 0,1 metre and/or at most 0,4 metre, preferably about 0,2 metre. The second extension length

Lz may be at least 0,1 metre and/or at most 0,4 metre, preferably about 0,2 metre. A side length Ls of a side part 82, preferably of both side parts 82, may be at least 0,95 metre and/or at most 1,6 metre, preferably about 1,2 metre. A height Hp, of the base part 88 may be at least 0,2 metre and/or at most 0,5 metre, preferably about 0,3 metre. Of course, other lengths are possible as well. The base length IL, may for example be at least 3 metre. Such dimensions may be chosen after experimentation and calculation, and enable a pontoon that is stable and enduring under challenging conditions such as relatively strong winds, deep and/or salt water, and intense UV- radiation from sunlight. The base length 1; may be approximately equal to a smallest horizontal dimension of the structural element, e.g. may be at most 0,5 metre larger or may be at most 0,5 metre smaller than the smallest horizontal dimension of the structural element.

More in general, a plurality, e.g. at least two, three, or four, of different types of the frame element 15 may be included in the frame. One or both of the first extension length Ly and the second extension length L3 may be different between two frame elements that belong to different ones of the plurality of frame element types. Additionally, or alternatively, the base length L, of the base part 80 may be different between frame elements of different types. Thus, for a type of the frame elements, the base length Lj, the first extension length La, and/or the second extension length L3 may differ from another type of the frame elements. Of each type, a plurality of frame elements may be included in the frame. The frame height

Hb and/or the side part length Ls may also vary between different types of the frame elements.

In an embodiment, the structural element has a substantially rectangular shape in an, in use, horizontal cross section. Such a rectangular shape is illustrated in figures 1A, 4A, 5A, and 6B. The rectangular shape may enable an efficient configuration of a solar energy system that includes a plurality of pontoons. Other shapes may also enable an efficient configuration. In use, the solar panels 12 may be oriented to face a substantially eastern direction or a substantially western direction.

Thus, a bottom of the V-shape of a pair of solar panels may extend along substantially the north-south direction. A deviation from the north-south direction preferably is within 30 degrees.

Figure 6B shows a schematic top view of a part of a solar energy system 2, in an embodiment of the invention. Figure 6B shows the solar energy system 2 when seen from the vertical direction in two dimensions, i.e. in a vertical projection. The solar energy system 2 includes a plurality of pontoons 10 and a plurality of solar panels 12. The solar panels may, at least partly, be positioned above at least part of the structural elements of the pontoons. Additionally, or alternatively, the solar panels 12 may, at least partly, be positioned above at least part of the intermediate spaces 64 between the pontoons 10.

The pontoons 10 may be mechanically connected, i.a. by means of interconnection elements 72. Also, frame elements may connect pontoons to each other. Preferably, a pair of solar panels is attached to a pair of frame elements. The frame elements of said pair may be positioned substantially parallel to each other.

The frame elements 15 illustrated in figure 6B are of different types, having a different total lengths Lt, base length L,, first extension length L,, and/or second extension length Ls. In order to illustrate the application of different combinations of frame element types, the embodiment of the solar energy system 2 shown in figure 6B includes two solar energy system parts 2A, 2B. In other embodiments, the solar energy system 2 may e.g. only comprise frame element types as shown in part 2A, or only comprise frame element types as shown in part 2B.

In the first solar energy system part 2A, two types 154, 15B of the frame elements may be applied. A first type of the frame element 15A may have a base length that is smaller than a base length of a second type of the frame element 15B.

The first frame element type 15A may have a base length that is smaller than a width

Ws (illustrated e.g. with reference to figure 1B) of the structural element of the pontoon 10 at an upper surface 36 of the structural element of the pontoon 10. Thus, the first frame element type 15A may be attached to the pontoon to not extend beyond the pontoon 10. The second frame element type 15B has a base length that is larger than said width Ws of the structural element of the pontoon 10. The second frame element type 15B may be attached to two different pontoons. The second frame element type 15B may be arranged to span an intermediate space 64 between adjacent pontoons along an array of pontoons.

In the second solar energy system part 2B, two further types 15C, 15D of the frame elements may be applied. A third type of the frame element 15C may have a base length that is smaller than a fourth type of the frame element 15D. The third trame element type 15C may have a base length that is similar or substantially equal (i.e, with a difference smaller than 5 % of the base length) to the width Ws of the structural element of the pontoon 10. Thus, the third frame element type 15C may be attached to the pontoon to not extend beyond the pontoon 10, or to only extend beyond the pontoon 10 by only one of the first and second extension lengths La, Ls.

The fourth frame element type 15D may be arranged to span a majority of an intermediate space 64 between adjacent pontoons in a direction 70 along an array of pontoons. The fourth frame element type 15D may be arranged to not completely span an intermediate space 64 between adjacent pontoons in a direction 70 along an array of pontoons. As shown in figure 6B, The frame elements may, more in general, be aligned with a direction 27A (figure 1A) along the width Ws (figure 1B) of the structural element 14.

In the first solar energy system part 2A, the frame elements of the first type 15A and frame elements of the second type 15B may be positioned alternatedly, in a direction along the base part of the frame elements 15. Thus, a first frame element type 15A may be positioned with both of its extensions, or frame element ends 85, near, and optionally connected to, a second frame element type 15B. In the second solar energy system part 2B, the frame elements of the third type 15C and frame elements of the fourth type 15D may also be positioned alternatedly, in a direction along the base part of the frame elements 15. Thus, a third frame element type 15C may be positioned with with both of its extensions, or frame element ends 85, near, and optionally connected to, a fourth frame element type 15D.

Thus, more in general, an array of frame elements 15 may mechanically connect a plurality of pontoons 10 and span open intermediate spaces 64 between adjacent pontoons along an array of pontoons. Preferably, at least two or three, more preferably at least four, different types of frame element are used in a solar energy system. Such different type of frame elements may have a different total length Lt.

Preferably, such different type of frame elements may have similar, e.g. substantially equal, base length Ly. Thus, the frame of the solar energy system may include at least three, preferably at least four, different types of frame element having a different total length Lt and preferably a similar base length L,. The different total lengths Lt may provide the possibility to optimise an areal coverage of solar panels. The similar base lengths I; may enable standardisation of a size of the solar panels, which can be beneficial e.g. in large solar energy systems containing relatively large amounts of solar panels.

It may be clear from figures 4A and 6B that, more in general, in a vertical projection a total surface area occupied by the plurality of solar panels may be larger than a total surface area of the top surfaces of the pontoons. Preferably, dimensions of the pontoons, the frame elements and the solar panels are dimensioned so that, in a vertical projection, the total surface area occupied by the plurality of solar panels may be at least 1,2 times, preferably at least 1,5 times, more preferably at least 1,8 times a total surface area of the top surfaces of the pontoons.

As illustrated in figure 6B, the solar energy system may include a plurality of pontoons 10 and a plurality of solar panels 12. In a solar energy system 2 that includes a plurality of pontoons 10, a plurality of solar panels 12 may be positioned above an intermediate space 64 between pontoons. In such a solar energy system, some of the solar panels 12 may be positioned above said intermediate space 64 and not above a pontoon 10. More in general, a first plurality of solar panels 12 may be provided above a pontoon 10 and not above an intermediate space 64, a second plurality of solar panels may be provided above an intermediate space 64 and not above a pontoon 10, and/or a third plurality of solar panels may be provided above an intermediate space 64 and above a pontoon 10.

The use of expressions like “preferably”, “more preferably”, “in particular”, “eg.” “for example”, “such as”, “may”, “can”, “aspect”, “embodiment”, “variation”,

“type” etc. is not intended to limit the invention.

For example, the term “pontoon” is not limited to the embodiments disclosed herein, but may have other shapes and/or dimensions, and/or may include other materials, than the ones disclosed.

The use of terms like “a”, “an”, or “the” does not exclude a plurality.

Terms like “flow”, “flows”, “flowed” etc. used herein may also be interpreted broadly, and may e.g. include various kinds of displacement of the fluidic material relative to the float, including tlow as a result of pouring and flow as a result of vibrations or other relatively small displacements.

The flow may be caused by driving the fluidic material towards and/or along the float, and/or by movement of the float relative to the fluidic material.

Features disclosed in relation to one or more of the embodiments described herein, may be applied in other embodiments as well.

The invention is not limited to an aspect, embodiment, feature, variation, or example of the present disclosure.

All kinematic inversions are considered to be inherently disclosed and to be within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

CONCLUSIONS

1. Pontoon that is designed to be contained by a solar energy system that is provided with at least one solar panel and that is designed to float on a water surface by means of at least the pontoon, wherein the pontoon comprises a structural part and a floating body, wherein the structural part has a composition such that the structural part itself does not float on said water surface and the floating body has a composition such that the floating body itself floats on said water surface, wherein the structural part is provided with a cavity in which at least part of the floating body is provided and the structural part comprises a part that extends laterally above the cavity, wherein the structural part contains at least 50 weight percent concrete and a thickness of the laterally extending part of the structural part at a position above the cavity is at least 4 centimeters.

2. Pontoon according to claim 1, wherein the thickness of the laterally extending part of the structural part at the position above the cavity is at most 12 centimeters.

Pontoon according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the structural part has a top surface, wherein a ratio of a weight of the structural part and a planar extent of the top surface in a vertical projection is at least 125 kilograms per square meter.

Pontoon according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the structural part has a top surface, wherein a ratio of a weight of the structural part and a planar extent of the top surface in a vertical projection is at most 350 kilograms per square meter.

5. Pontoon according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the floating body has a thickness in an upward direction, and wherein a ratio of the thickness of the laterally extending part of the structural member at the position above the cavity and the thickness of the floating body at a position below the position above the cavity at least 0.11s.

6. Pontoon according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the floating body has a thickness in an upward direction, and wherein a ratio of the thickness of the laterally extending part of the structural member at the position above the cavity and the thickness of the floating body at a position below the position above the cavity is at most 0.3.

7. Pontoon according to any of claims 1-6, wherein the floating body determines a shape and/or one or more dimensions of the cavity.

A pontoon according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the structural member comprises a downwardly projecting lower portion that projects downwardly from the laterally extending portion of the structural member, wherein the laterally extending portion and the downwardly projecting lower portion define the cavity.

9. Pontoon according to claim 8, wherein the side-extending part and the downward-projecting part are made in one piece.

10. Pontoon according to any one of claims 1-9, wherein the floating body is provided with at least one floating body coupling element for attaching the floating body to the structural part, wherein the at least one floating body coupling element is, at least partly, surrounded by the structural part.

11. Pontoon according to any one of claims 1-10, wherein the structural part is at least partly formed from concrete such that the structural part contains at least 70 weight percent concrete.

Pontoon according to any one of claims 1-11, wherein a majority of a mass of at least the laterally extending part of the structural part is made of concrete.

A pontoon according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the structural part has a substantially rectangular shape in a horizontal cross-section extending through the part of the structural part that extends laterally above the cavity.

14. Pontoon according to any of claims 1-13, provided with one or more pairs of solar panels that are positioned essentially in a V-shape, with the V positioned upside down and at least partly above the water surface.

15. Solar energy system comprising a pontoon according to any one of claims 1-14, wherein the solar energy system is provided with a plurality of solar panels comprising the at least one solar panel, wherein the pontoon is one of a plurality of pontoons comprising the solar energy system, where multiple pontoons are mechanically connected to each other.

16. Solar energy system according to claim 15, wherein the pontoons of said plurality of pontoons are mechanically connected to each other at corners of the pontoons.

17. Solar energy system according to claim 16, wherein the pontoons of said plurality of pontoons are each mechanically connected to at least one other pontoon of said plurality of pontoons at corners of the pontoons such that each pontoon is provided with one or more connected corners, wherein for each pontoon the number of connected corners is equal to the number of other pontoons connected near the connected corners.

18. Solar energy system according to any of claims 15-17, wherein the pontoons of the plurality of pontoons are mechanically connected by means of connecting elements.

19. Solar energy system according to claim 18, wherein the connecting elements are flexible.

20. Solar energy system according to claim 18 or 19, wherein an overlap distance of two pontoons connected by at least one of the connecting elements is a maximum of 80 centimeters.

A solar energy system according to any one of claims 15-20, wherein the plurality of pontoons comprises a row of pontoons, wherein neighboring pontoons of the row of pontoons are spaced apart in a direction along the row such that the neighboring pontoons define spacings between the pontoons of said row of pontoons.

The solar energy system of claim 21, wherein the plurality of pontoons comprises a plurality of rows of pontoons extending in directions substantially parallel to each other, with adjacent rows of the plurality of rows of pontoons offset from each other .

A solar energy system according to claim 21 or 22, wherein a first plurality of solar panels is provided above a pontoon and not above a space between adjacent pontoons along the row of pontoons, wherein a second plurality of solar panels is provided above a space between adjacent pontoons along the row of pontoons and not above a pontoon, and/or wherein a third plurality of solar panels are provided above a pontoon and above a gap between adjacent pontoons along the row of pontoons.

24. Solar energy system according to any one of claims 15-23, wherein, in a vertical projection, a total area occupied by the plurality of solar panels is larger than a total area occupied by the pontoons.

25. Solar energy system according to any one of claims 15-24, comprising a frame comprising a plurality of frame elements to which the plurality of pontoons are connected and to which the plurality of solar panels are attached.

26. Solar energy system according to claims 24 and 25, wherein the pontoons, the frame elements and the solar panels are dimensioned such that, in a vertical projection, the total area occupied by the plurality of solar panels occupies at least 1.2 times a total area by the pontoons.

A solar energy system according to any one of claims 21 to 26, wherein adjacent pontoons of the plurality of pontoons along another row of pontoons are spaced apart in a direction along the other row of pontoons that is substantially perpendicular to the row of pontoons.

28. Solar energy system according to any of claims 15-27, wherein the plurality of pontoons comprises at least 2500 pontoons.

20. Pontoon according to any one of claims 1-14, in combination with a mold that is designed for manufacturing the structural part, wherein at least a part of the floating body is positioned in and/or surrounded by the mold, and wherein the mold has a determines the shape and/or one or more dimensions of the structural part.

30. Method for manufacturing a pontoon that is designed to be contained by a solar energy system that is provided with at least one solar panel and is designed to float on a water surface by means of at least the pontoon, wherein the method comprises: - manufacturing a structural part of the pontoon that has a composition such that the structural part itself does not float on said water surface, wherein the structural part contains at least 50 weight percent concrete; - providing a floating body for the pontoon that has a composition such that the floating body itself floats on said water surface; and - at least partially providing the floating body in a cavity provided in the structural part; wherein manufacturing the structural member includes flowing a liquid material along the floating body and solidifying the liquid material, such that the structural member comprises a portion extending laterally above the cavity and a thickness of the laterally extending portion of the structural part at a position above the cavity is at least 4 centimeters.

A method according to claim 30, wherein the thickness of the laterally extending part of the structural member at the position above the cavity is at most 12 centimeters.