WO2018007728A1 - System for storing and producing electrical energy by gravity using submergeable weights - Google Patents

System for storing and producing electrical energy by gravity using submergeable weights Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2018007728A1
WO2018007728A1 PCT/FR2017/051772 FR2017051772W WO2018007728A1 WO 2018007728 A1 WO2018007728 A1 WO 2018007728A1 FR 2017051772 W FR2017051772 W FR 2017051772W WO 2018007728 A1 WO2018007728 A1 WO 2018007728A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
ballast
storing
electrical energy
producing electrical
energy according
Prior art date
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PCT/FR2017/051772
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French (fr)
Inventor
Jean-Michel GERMA
Richard Perez
Marc Perez
Pierre LAGANDRE
Maxime GARBAY
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Mgh
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Publication of WO2018007728A1 publication Critical patent/WO2018007728A1/en

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Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F03—MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS; WIND, SPRING, OR WEIGHT MOTORS; PRODUCING MECHANICAL POWER OR A REACTIVE PROPULSIVE THRUST, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F03G—SPRING, WEIGHT, INERTIA OR LIKE MOTORS; MECHANICAL-POWER PRODUCING DEVICES OR MECHANISMS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR OR USING ENERGY SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F03G3/00—Other motors, e.g. gravity or inertia motors

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to the field of storing and restoring electrical energy by immersing weights from a marine platform.
  • Such storage systems can be used, for example, to store the energy generated by renewable sources (wind, solar photovoltaic, ...) during the "hollow” periods during which the energy demand is less than 1 'energy produced and return it during peak periods when the energy demand is higher than the energy produced, or for the establishment of a large energy reserve.
  • This system deployed in a volume of water, comprises a platform, at least one ballast placed on the bottom of the volume of water, a lifting system able to move said ballast between a first elevation position and a second elevation position, and a remotely controlled coupling device coupled to the lifting system and configured for tracking and coupling to said at least one ballast on the bottom of the water volume, said lifting system raises and selectively lowers said at least one ballast when coupled to said remotely controlled latching device, from the first elevation position to the second elevation position, said system stores and releases energy when said at least one ballast moves between the first elevation position and the second elevation position.
  • this type of system of the prior art comprises components that can be improved: the motor / generator can be configured according to a a particular characteristic making it possible to optimize the choice of the traction cable material and thus reduce its cost and elasticity; the ballast can be designed to reduce its cost; the platform can be designed to maximize its safety and maintain its integrity in extreme weather conditions.
  • the invention relates, in its most general sense, to a system for storing and producing electrical energy deployed in a volume of water, said system comprising a platform, at least one ballast laid on the bottom of the water volume, a lifting system able to move said ballast between a first elevation position and a second elevation position, and a remotely controlled coupling device coupled to the lifting system and configured to for tracking and coupling purposes to said at least one ballast on the bottom of the water volume, said lifting system selectively raises and lowers said at least one ballast when coupled to said remote controlled hooking device, from the first elevation position to the second elevation position, said system stores and releases energy when said at least one ballast moves between the first elevation position and and the second elevation position, characterized in that it comprises a controlled adjustment device of the length and the tension of the traction cable, making it possible to ensure the continuity and the smoothing of the consumption / production of electricity of the installation as well as the compensation of the movements of the ship in case of swell for example.
  • said controlled adjustment device of the length and tension of the traction cable is constituted by a pulley system whose spacing is adjustable by any mechanical and / or hydraulic and / or pneumatic means.
  • said controlled adjustment device for the length and tension of the traction cable is controlled by an electronic circuit receiving a signal representative of the immersed length and the cable tension.
  • Said adjustment device controlled by the length and tension of the traction cable makes it possible to shift the transition phases of the ballast over time with respect to one another. It can also for example play the role - at least partially - of a wave compensator or be coupled to a wave compensator. It can also be used, for example, to modulate the speed of the hoisting system independently of the descent speed of the weights at the time of attachment of the generator to the network.
  • said attachment device comprises at least one autonomous system for recharging energy, which avoids having to raise the attachment device in case of exhaustion of the on-board power source.
  • said autonomous energy recharging system is constituted by a hydro generator.
  • said autonomous energy recharging system is constituted by a pneumatic system actuated by the variation of the pressure of the water as a function of the depth.
  • said attachment device consists of two parts, one remaining attached to the traction cable and the other mobile.
  • the installation comprises at least one buffer storage device and an activation algorithm of said buffer storage device, taking into account power and / or energy reference values.
  • said buffer storage device consists of an additional ballast coupled to a reversible electric machine.
  • said buffer storage device consists of an electrochemical battery.
  • said buffer storage device consists of a thermal storage system.
  • said buffer storage consists of a storage system with flywheel.
  • said buffer storage consists of a compressed air storage system.
  • said at least one ballast is designed in such a way as to reduce the quantities of expensive materials and to maximize the use of dense and inexpensive materials.
  • said at least one ballast is wrapped with a buoy formed by a closed envelope of hydrodynamic shape fulfilling the function of passive or active ballast.
  • said platform is formed of two complementary units, one fixed designed to withstand storms and comprising the system of storage of the ballast on the surface and the point of attachment the undersea electrical cable for connection to the terrestrial electrical network, the other mobile adapted to be moved under cover in the event of a storm and including the system for lifting weights, the generator and the electrical systems.
  • FIG. 1 represents a perspective view of a first example of a fastening system according to the invention
  • FIG. 1a shows a schematic view of another example of a fastening system according to the invention
  • Figures 2 to 5 show a schematic view of the operation of the system in storage mode
  • FIGS. 6 to 9 show a schematic view of the operation of the system in electrical production mode
  • FIG. 10 represents an example of a ballast according to a variant of the invention in transparent perspective
  • FIGS. 11 and 12 show a variation of ballasted ballast, respectively in vertical section and dive face
  • FIG. 1 shows an example of an attachment device.
  • the attachment device is formed by a body (1) provided with a hook or other fastening system (2) and hooked on the end of a cable (3).
  • This device makes it possible to secure the body (1) to the ballast, or on the contrary to separate it, for example to abandon said ballast on the seabed, or on the contrary to hang it on the platform.
  • the body (1) is heavy to act as a counterweight to facilitate the descent of the towing cable when no ballast is hooked. It is provided with two groups (4, 5) orientable, comprising a reversible electric machine. This reversible electric machine is used for the self-guided movement of the body (1) when it is powered by a battery housed in the body (1). It is then controlled by a system for locating a ballast to be recovered, housed in the body (1).
  • This locating system delivers signals to a control device of the two orientable groups (4, 5). In ballast approach phase, it controls the passage of these groups in engine mode (propulsion). Otherwise, these groups (4, 5) pass for example in generator mode to recharge the battery housed in the body (1).
  • Figure 1a shows another configuration, in which the functions of counterweight and attachment device are provided by two separate components: the support cage (20) and the attachment system (21). The support cage (20) remains attached to the traction cable and is heavy to ensure the counterweight function of the attachment device. The support cage is also used to receive the attachment system (21) for the phases of ascent and descent of the ballast.
  • the attachment system (21) is movable in three dimensions, autonomous energy and always remains connected to the support cage via a flexible leash (22) windable / unrollable. It includes the ballast attachment hook (23) and an attachment system (24) to the support cage. In order to hang a weight resting on the seabed, the hooking system (21) out of the support cage (20) and approaches and then clings to the ballast using the fastening system (23). ). The leash (22) is then wound, which has the effect of bringing the support cage (20) until it attaches to the attachment system (21) using the system of fastener (24). The ballast can then be carried out.
  • FIGS. 2 to 5 show a schematic view of the controlled adjustment device of the length and voltage of the traction cable in electricity storage mode
  • FIGS. 6 to 9 show a schematic view of this same device in the production mode of FIG. 'electricity.
  • the platform comprises a reversible electric machine coupled to a traction system (10) of the cable (3).
  • the system comprises two cable length compensation systems (11, 12) using variable spacing pulleys on each side of the traction system (10).
  • the variation of the spacing of the pulleys can be achieved by any mechanical and / or hydraulic and / or pneumatic means.
  • the length compensation system (12) located on the side of the attachment system (2 L ) stores only the surplus of length to allow the continuation of the ascent of the attachment system (2 L ) and the ballast (101). This allows, while the ballast (101) still rises, to proceed to the hooking operation of another ballast (102) on the opposite side without interrupting the ascent of said attachment system (2 L ) and said ballast ( 101).
  • ballast (101) ends its ascent and reaches its target elevation position (16).
  • the total length of submerged cable is then equal to the depth of the water column ( Figure 3).
  • the ballast (102) that has just been hooked then begins its ascent and simultaneously the length compensation system (11) located on the ballast side (101) having reached its target elevation position (16) begins to store the length cable allowing said ballast (101) to be kept motionless for the maneuver of its stall while the ballast (102) continues its ascent
  • the two length compensation systems (11, 12) then stored cable to the maximum of their capacity.
  • the total length of submerged cable is then less than the depth of the water column ( Figure 4).
  • the ballast (102) continues its ascent and the attachment device (2 L ) located on the opposite side begins its descent.
  • the two length compensation systems (11, 12) then release their entire length of cable before the ballast (102) has completed its ascent.
  • the hooking device (2 L ) located on the opposite side thus descends faster than the ballast (102), which allows said hooking device (2 L ) to start the hooking operation of a new ballast (103) while the ballast (102) is still climbing (Figure 5).
  • the operation is repeated until the transfer of all the weights from the second elevation position to the first elevation position.
  • the length compensation systems (11, 12) store as much cable as possible so that the total length of submerged cable is less than the depth of the water column ( Figure 6).
  • the length compensation system (12) located on the latching system (2 R ) side releases only the length of the cable to allow the continuation of the descent of the hooking system (2 L ) and the ballast (111) hooked on the other side. This allows, while the ballast (111) still descends, to proceed to the hooking operation of another ballast (112) on the opposite side without interrupting the descent of said attachment system (2 L ) and said ballast (111). ).
  • ballast (112) ends its descent and reaches its target elevation position (15).
  • the total length of submerged cable is then equal to the depth of the water column ( Figure 7).
  • the ballast (112) that has just been hooked then begins its descent and simultaneously the length compensation system (11) located on the ballast side (111) having reached its target position (15) begins to release the cable length allowing ballast audit (111) to be kept stationary for the maneuver of its stall while the opposite ballast (112) continues its descent.
  • the two length compensation systems (11, 12) are at least their capacity.
  • the total length of submerged cable is then greater than the depth of the water column ( Figure 8).
  • the ballast (112) continues its descent and the attachment device (2 L ) located on the opposite side begins its ascent.
  • the operation is repeated until the transfer of all the weights from the first elevation position to the second elevation position.
  • Steel tensile cords are more durable and less expensive than synthetic cables for the cyclic use provided in the present invention. However, they have the disadvantage of having a density approximately seven times greater than the traction cables synthetic. The variation of their mass induced by the variation of their suspended length can cause a consequent variation of the speed of descent or rise of the ballast.
  • the use of a variable speed generator / motor makes it possible to adjust the speed of descent of the weights as a function of the depth in order to compensate for the variation in mass caused by the suspended weight of the traction cable.
  • This variant requires to vary the descent speed of the weights in order to maintain a constant production power (or consumption) throughout the descent (ascent) despite the variation in weight due to the length of cable suspension.
  • the descent speed variation of the weights can be controlled by power electronics on the generator / motor side.
  • a particular variant of the invention concerns a specific structural design of limiting the quantities. expensive materials (for example by choosing a steel structure and synthetic fibers) by maximizing the quantities of heavy and inexpensive materials (eg unreinforced concrete).
  • FIG. 10 shows an example of such ballast.
  • the mass of the heavy material is supported by a metal shell (30) of steel (or other structurally resistant material) connected to the attachment point (36) by a network of stays (31 to 35) of synthetic fibers and / or metal.
  • the mass of concrete (37) envelopes the stays (31 to 35) which can be either embedded in the concrete (37) or located inside ducts in the concrete.
  • the concrete itself can be covered by a coating of waterproof polymer material to allow better holding under very high pressure.
  • ballast Another variant for the construction of the ballast is to build a ballast (passive or active) associated with each ballast.
  • the variant shown in Figures 11 and 12 consists of wrapping the ballast (40) of a buoy formed by a closed envelope (41) of plastic material that can be flexible or other material.
  • the buoy (41) can be emptied and filled from below (passive ballast) or equipped with a valve for filling and / or air discharge from above (active ballast).
  • the buoy (41) is of hydrodynamic shape and is attached to the ballast over its entire vertical surface, thereby minimizing the ballast / buoy tension per unit area.
  • the contact between the two can be assured either: ⁇ By gluing, and / or
  • ballast By many asperities on the outer surface of the ballast, and / or • By designing the ballast a little thicker at the top than at the bottom, creating a "V" ensuring the permanent contact of the ballast and the buoy.
  • the outer profiled buoy (41) shown in Fig. 18 may also be adapted to provide a potential role of "fender" between ballast at the surface or at depth.
  • Compensation of system production / consumption dips can be performed by energy buffering sources.
  • These energy buffer storage sources can be notably:
  • Electrochemical batteries maximum power and minimum power are defined to activate the charging and discharging of the batteries in order to smooth the production and consumption at the output of the installation,
  • MODULAR PLATFORM Another variant illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14 consists in producing a modular platform formed of several complementary units:
  • the first unit (50) comprises the weight lifting system (52), the generator (53) and the electrical systems.
  • the second unit (51) comprises the system for storing ballast on the surface, and constitutes the point of attachment of the electric cable (54) connecting the rib.
  • the first unit (50) can be returned to a protected area (eg a port, a lee shore) either by its own engine or by towing.
  • the second unit (51) remains offshore but, equipped with ballasts, it can possibly be positioned under the surface to a depth sufficient to escape the strength of waves and wind.
  • the goal is to be able to protect storage systems in the event of a storm.
  • the unit (50) containing all electrical generating systems is the most sensitive to the effects of the storm. Smaller than the storage platform (51) itself, it can be moved more easily.
  • the other unit (51) contains few electrical systems (ballast feed, and mains lead) that can be made completely sealed to a depth sufficient to minimize the effects of heavy sea surface.
  • the first unit (50) can move - and can be likened to a ship.
  • the second unit (51) is not designed to move, but to occupy a large modular space offshore, of sufficient size to be insensitive to the movement of the waves and, if necessary to be immersed to a depth allowing to reduce the influence of the waves.
  • a decoupling system of the high voltage cable (54) is implemented during the separation of the two units.

Abstract

The invention relates to a system for storing and producing electrical energy, deployed in a volume of water, said system comprising a platform, at least one weight placed on the bottom of the volume of water, a hoisting system that can move said weight between a first height and a second height, and a remote-controlled connecting device which is coupled to the hoisting system and designed to locate and couple to said at least one weight on the bottom of the volume of water, said hoisting system selectively lifting and lowering said at least one weight when it is coupled to said remote-controlled connecting device, from the first height to the second height, said system storing and releasing energy when said at least one weight moves between the first height and the second height. Said system comprises a device for the controlled adjustment of the length and the tension of the traction cable, ensuring the continuity and the smoothing of the electricity consumption/production of the facility.

Description

Système de stockage et de production d'énergie élect par gravité grâce à des lests immergeables  System of storage and energy production élect by gravity thanks to immersible ballast
Domaine de 1 ' invention La présente invention concerne le domaine du stockage et de la restitution d'énergie électrique par l'immersion de lests à partir d'une plateforme maritime. FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to the field of storing and restoring electrical energy by immersing weights from a marine platform.
De tels systèmes de stockage peuvent être utilisés, par exemple, pour stocker l'énergie générée par des sources renouvelables (éolien, solaire photovoltaïque,... ) pendant les périodes « creuses » au cours desquelles la demande d'énergie est inférieure à 1 ' énergie produite et la restituer lors des périodes « de pointe » lors desquelles la demande d'énergie est supérieure à l'énergie produite, ou encore pour l'établissement d'une réserve d'énergie importante. Such storage systems can be used, for example, to store the energy generated by renewable sources (wind, solar photovoltaic, ...) during the "hollow" periods during which the energy demand is less than 1 'energy produced and return it during peak periods when the energy demand is higher than the energy produced, or for the establishment of a large energy reserve.
Etat de la technique State of the art
On connaît dans l'état de la technique la demande de brevet internationale WO 2014160522 décrivant un système permettant de stocker et de libérer de l'énergie. Ce système, déployé dans un volume d'eau, comprend une plate-forme, au moins un lest posé sur le fond du volume d'eau, un système de levage en mesure de déplacer ledit lest entre une première position d'élévation et une deuxième position d'élévation, et un dispositif d'accrochage commandé à distance couplé au système de levage et configuré à des fins de repérage et de couplage audit au moins un lest sur le fond du volume d'eau, ledit système de levage soulève et abaisse de manière sélective ledit au moins un lest lorsqu'il est couplé audit dispositif d'accrochage commandé à distance, depuis la première position d'élévation jusqu'à la deuxième position d'élévation, ledit système stocke et libère de l'énergie quand ledit au moins un lest se déplace entre la première position d'élévation et la deuxième position d'élévation. The state of the art is known from the international patent application WO 2014160522 describing a system for storing and releasing energy. This system, deployed in a volume of water, comprises a platform, at least one ballast placed on the bottom of the volume of water, a lifting system able to move said ballast between a first elevation position and a second elevation position, and a remotely controlled coupling device coupled to the lifting system and configured for tracking and coupling to said at least one ballast on the bottom of the water volume, said lifting system raises and selectively lowers said at least one ballast when coupled to said remotely controlled latching device, from the first elevation position to the second elevation position, said system stores and releases energy when said at least one ballast moves between the first elevation position and the second elevation position.
Inconvénients de l'art antérieur Disadvantages of prior art
Bien que la solution décrite dans la demande de brevet internationale WO 2014160522 permette de répondre de manière très flexible à des besoins de stockage et de restitution d'énergie électrique aussi bien pour des cycles courts de quelques heures que pour des cycles longs de plusieurs semaines voire quelques mois, il apparaît que des perfectionnements peuvent être apportés pour optimiser son fonctionnement et améliorer certains de ses composants. L'un des défis est lié à l'élasticité du câble de traction utilisé pour l'ascension et la descente des lests. Cette élasticité perturbe le mouvement et la précision de positionnement du dispositif d'accrochage, notamment pendant les phases d'accrochage ou de décrochage du lest. Cette élasticité génère également des variations de tension dans le câble de traction qui sont susceptibles de perturber le fonctionnement du moteur/générateur . Un autre défi réside dans les creux de production/consommation d'électricité lors des phases de transition des lests. Par exemple, la phase de transition d'un lest en position haute comprend son accrochage par le dispositif d'accrochage, puis son accélération lorsqu'il commence sa descente. Although the solution described in the international patent application WO 2014160522 makes it possible to respond in a very flexible manner to the storage and return of electrical energy needs for short cycles of a few hours as for cycles of several weeks or even a few months, it appears that improvements can be made to optimize its operation and improve some of its components. One of the challenges is related to the elasticity of the tow rope used for ascent and descent of the weights. This elasticity disturbs the movement and the positioning accuracy of the attachment device, especially during the phases of attachment or stall ballast. This elasticity also generates voltage variations in the traction cable that are likely to disturb the operation of the motor / generator. Another challenge lies in the production / consumption bottlenecks during the transition phases of the ballast. For example, the transition phase of a ballast in the high position comprises its hooking by the attachment device, then its acceleration when it begins its descent.
Un autre défi concerne le fonctionnement en autonomie de la source d'énergie du dispositif d'accrochage des lests, son épuisement pouvant entraîner des pertes de productivité . Enfin, ce type de système de l'art antérieur comporte des composants qui peuvent être améliorés : le moteur/générateur peut être configuré selon une caractéristique particulière permettant d'optimiser le choix du matériau du câble de traction et ainsi diminuer son coût et son élasticité; le lest peut être conçu de façon à diminuer son coût ; la plate-forme peut être conçue de manière à optimiser sa sécurité et préserver son intégrité en conditions météorologiques extrêmes. Another challenge is the autonomous operation of the energy source of the hanging device of the ballasts, its exhaustion may cause productivity losses. Finally, this type of system of the prior art comprises components that can be improved: the motor / generator can be configured according to a a particular characteristic making it possible to optimize the choice of the traction cable material and thus reduce its cost and elasticity; the ballast can be designed to reduce its cost; the platform can be designed to maximize its safety and maintain its integrity in extreme weather conditions.
Solutions apportées par l'invention Solutions provided by the invention
Afin de répondre à ces inconvénients, l'invention concerne selon son acception la plus générale un système de stockage et de production d'énergie électrique déployé dans un volume d'eau, ledit système comprenant une plate-forme, au moins un lest posé sur le fond du volume d'eau, un système de levage en mesure de déplacer ledit lest entre une première position d'élévation et une deuxième position d'élévation, et un dispositif d'accrochage commandé à distance couplé au système de levage et configuré à des fins de repérage et de couplage audit au moins un lest sur le fond du volume d'eau, ledit système de levage soulève et abaisse de manière sélective ledit au moins un lest lorsqu'il est couplé audit dispositif d'accrochage commandé à distance, depuis la première position d'élévation jusqu'à la deuxième position d'élévation, ledit système stocke et libère de l'énergie quand ledit au moins un lest se déplace entre la première position d'élévation et la deuxième position d'élévation, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend un dispositif d'ajustement piloté de la longueur et de la tension du câble de traction, permettant d'assurer la continuité et le lissage de la consommation/production d'électricité de l'installation ainsi que la compensation des mouvements du navire en cas de houle par exemple. In order to meet these drawbacks, the invention relates, in its most general sense, to a system for storing and producing electrical energy deployed in a volume of water, said system comprising a platform, at least one ballast laid on the bottom of the water volume, a lifting system able to move said ballast between a first elevation position and a second elevation position, and a remotely controlled coupling device coupled to the lifting system and configured to for tracking and coupling purposes to said at least one ballast on the bottom of the water volume, said lifting system selectively raises and lowers said at least one ballast when coupled to said remote controlled hooking device, from the first elevation position to the second elevation position, said system stores and releases energy when said at least one ballast moves between the first elevation position and and the second elevation position, characterized in that it comprises a controlled adjustment device of the length and the tension of the traction cable, making it possible to ensure the continuity and the smoothing of the consumption / production of electricity of the installation as well as the compensation of the movements of the ship in case of swell for example.
Avantageusement, ledit dispositif d'ajustement piloté de la longueur et de la tension du câble de traction est constitué par un système à poulies dont l'espacement est ajustable par tout moyen mécanique et/ou hydraulique et/ou pneumatique . Advantageously, said controlled adjustment device of the length and tension of the traction cable is constituted by a pulley system whose spacing is adjustable by any mechanical and / or hydraulic and / or pneumatic means.
Selon une variante, ledit dispositif d'ajustement piloté de la longueur et de la tension du câble de traction est piloté par un circuit électronique recevant un signal représentatif de la longueur immergée et de la tension du câble . According to a variant, said controlled adjustment device for the length and tension of the traction cable is controlled by an electronic circuit receiving a signal representative of the immersed length and the cable tension.
Ledit dispositif d'ajustement piloté de la longueur et de la tension du câble de traction permet de décaler dans le temps, les unes par rapport aux autres, les phases de transition du lest. Il peut également par exemple jouer le rôle —au moins partiellement - d'un compensateur de houle ou être couplé à un compensateur de houle. Il peut aussi servir par exemple à moduler la vitesse du système de levage indépendamment de la vitesse de descente des lests au moment de l'accrochage de la génératrice au réseau. Said adjustment device controlled by the length and tension of the traction cable makes it possible to shift the transition phases of the ballast over time with respect to one another. It can also for example play the role - at least partially - of a wave compensator or be coupled to a wave compensator. It can also be used, for example, to modulate the speed of the hoisting system independently of the descent speed of the weights at the time of attachment of the generator to the network.
Selon un mode de réalisation avantageux, ledit dispositif d'accrochage comprend au moins un système autonome de recharge en énergie, qui évite de devoir remonter le dispositif d'accrochage en cas d'épuisement de la source d'énergie embarquée. According to an advantageous embodiment, said attachment device comprises at least one autonomous system for recharging energy, which avoids having to raise the attachment device in case of exhaustion of the on-board power source.
Selon une première variante, ledit système autonome de recharge en énergie est constitué par un hydro générateur. According to a first variant, said autonomous energy recharging system is constituted by a hydro generator.
Selon une deuxième variante, ledit système autonome de recharge en énergie est constitué par un système pneumatique actionné par la variation de la pression de l'eau en fonction de la profondeur. According to a second variant, said autonomous energy recharging system is constituted by a pneumatic system actuated by the variation of the pressure of the water as a function of the depth.
Selon un mode de réalisation particulier, ledit dispositif d'accrochage est constitué de deux parties, l'une restant attachée au câble de traction et l'autre mobile. Selon un mode de réalisation avantageux, l'installation comporte au moins un dispositif de stockage tampon et un algorithme d'activation dudit dispositif de stockage tampon, prenant en compte des valeurs de référence en puissance et/ou énergie. According to a particular embodiment, said attachment device consists of two parts, one remaining attached to the traction cable and the other mobile. According to an advantageous embodiment, the installation comprises at least one buffer storage device and an activation algorithm of said buffer storage device, taking into account power and / or energy reference values.
Selon une première variante, ledit dispositif de stockage tampon est constitué d'un lest supplémentaire couplé à une machine électrique réversible. According to a first variant, said buffer storage device consists of an additional ballast coupled to a reversible electric machine.
Selon une deuxième variante, ledit dispositif de stockage tampon est constitué d'une batterie électrochimique. According to a second variant, said buffer storage device consists of an electrochemical battery.
Selon une troisième variante, ledit dispositif de stockage tampon est constitué d'un système de stockage thermique . According to a third variant, said buffer storage device consists of a thermal storage system.
Selon une quatrième variante, ledit stockage tampon est constitué d'un système de stockage à volant d'inertie. According to a fourth variant, said buffer storage consists of a storage system with flywheel.
Selon une cinquième variante, ledit stockage tampon est constitué d'un système de stockage par air comprimé. According to a fifth variant, said buffer storage consists of a compressed air storage system.
Selon un mode de réalisation avantageux, ledit au moins un lest est conçu de manière à diminuer les quantités de matières onéreuses et maximiser l'emploi de matériaux denses et peu onéreux. According to an advantageous embodiment, said at least one ballast is designed in such a way as to reduce the quantities of expensive materials and to maximize the use of dense and inexpensive materials.
Selon un mode de réalisation avantageux, ledit au moins un lest est enveloppé d'une bouée formée par une enveloppe fermée de forme hydrodynamique remplissant la fonction de ballast passif ou actif. According to an advantageous embodiment, said at least one ballast is wrapped with a buoy formed by a closed envelope of hydrodynamic shape fulfilling the function of passive or active ballast.
Selon un mode de réalisation avantageux, ladite plate-forme est formée de deux unités complémentaires, l'une fixe conçue pour résister aux tempêtes et comprenant le système de stockage des lests en surface et le point d'attache du câble électrique sous-marin de raccordement au réseau électrique terrestre, l'autre mobile conçue pour être déplacée à l'abri en cas de tempête et comprenant le système de levage des lests, la génératrice et les systèmes électriques. Description détaillée d'exemples non limitatifs de réalisation de l'invention According to an advantageous embodiment, said platform is formed of two complementary units, one fixed designed to withstand storms and comprising the system of storage of the ballast on the surface and the point of attachment the undersea electrical cable for connection to the terrestrial electrical network, the other mobile adapted to be moved under cover in the event of a storm and including the system for lifting weights, the generator and the electrical systems. Detailed description of nonlimiting examples of embodiment of the invention
La présente invention sera mieux comprise à la lecture de la description qui suit, se référant à un exemple non limitatif de réalisation illustré par les dessins annexés où : The present invention will be better understood on reading the description which follows, referring to a nonlimiting exemplary embodiment illustrated by the accompanying drawings in which:
- la figure 1 représente une vue en perspective d'un premier exemple d'un système d'accrochage selon 1 ' invention FIG. 1 represents a perspective view of a first example of a fastening system according to the invention
- la figure 1 bis représente une vue schématique d'un autre exemple d'un système d'accrochage selon l'invention FIG. 1a shows a schematic view of another example of a fastening system according to the invention
Les figures 2 à 5 représentent une vue schématique du fonctionnement du système en mode stockage Figures 2 to 5 show a schematic view of the operation of the system in storage mode
Les figures 6 à 9 représentent une vue schématique du fonctionnement du système en mode de production électrique la figure 10 représente un exemple d'un lest selon une variante de l'invention en perspective transparente FIGS. 6 to 9 show a schematic view of the operation of the system in electrical production mode; FIG. 10 represents an example of a ballast according to a variant of the invention in transparent perspective
- les figures 11 et 12 représentent une variante de lest ballasté, respectivement en coupe verticale et de face en plongée FIGS. 11 and 12 show a variation of ballasted ballast, respectively in vertical section and dive face
- les figures 13 et 14 représentent une variante du système . SYSTEME D'ACCROCHAGE - Figures 13 and 14 show a variant of the system. HANGING SYSTEM
La figure 1 représente un exemple d'un dispositif d'accrochage. Le dispositif d'accrochage est formé par un corps (1) muni d'un crochet ou de tout autre système d'accrochage (2) et accroché au bout d'un câble (3). Ce dispositif permet de solidariser le corps (1) au lest, ou au contraire de le désolidariser, par exemple pour abandonner ledit lest sur le fond marin, ou au contraire l'accrocher sur la plateforme. Le corps (1) est pesant pour jouer le rôle de contrepoids afin de faciliter la descente du câble de traction lorsqu' aucun lest n'y est accroché. Il est muni de deux groupes (4, 5) orientables, comportant une machine électrique réversible. Cette machine électrique réversible sert au déplacement autoguidé du corps (1) lorsqu'il est alimenté par une batterie logée dans le corps (1). Il est alors commandé par un système de localisation d'un lest à récupérer, logé dans le corps ( 1 ) . Figure 1 shows an example of an attachment device. The attachment device is formed by a body (1) provided with a hook or other fastening system (2) and hooked on the end of a cable (3). This device makes it possible to secure the body (1) to the ballast, or on the contrary to separate it, for example to abandon said ballast on the seabed, or on the contrary to hang it on the platform. The body (1) is heavy to act as a counterweight to facilitate the descent of the towing cable when no ballast is hooked. It is provided with two groups (4, 5) orientable, comprising a reversible electric machine. This reversible electric machine is used for the self-guided movement of the body (1) when it is powered by a battery housed in the body (1). It is then controlled by a system for locating a ballast to be recovered, housed in the body (1).
Ce système de localisation délivre des signaux à un dispositif de pilotage des deux groupes orientables (4, 5). En phase d'approche du lest, il commande le passage de ces groupes en mode moteur (propulsion). Autrement, ces groupes (4, 5) passent par exemple en mode génératrice pour recharger la batterie logée dans le corps (1). La figure 1 bis présente une autre configuration, dans laquelle les fonctions de contrepoids et de dispositif d'accrochage sont assurées par deux composants distincts : la cage-support (20) et le système d'accrochage (21). La cage- support (20) reste accrochée au câble de traction et est pesante afin d'assurer la fonction de contrepoids du dispositif d'accrochage. La cage-support sert également à accueillir le système d'accrochage (21) pour les phases de montée et descente des lests. Le système d'accrochage (21) est mobile dans les trois dimensions, autonome en énergie et reste toujours lié à la cage-support par l'intermédiaire d'une laisse souple (22) enroulable/déroulable. Il comprend le crochet d'attache aux lests (23) et un système d'attache (24) à la cage—support . Afin d'accrocher un lest reposant sur le fond marin, le système d'accrochage (21) sort de la cage- support (20) et s'approche puis s'accroche au lest à l'aide du système d'attache (23). La laisse (22) est alors enroulée, ce qui a pour effet de rapprocher la cage-support (20) jusqu'à ce que celle-ci s'attache au système d'accrochage (21) à l'aide du système d'attache (24). La remontée du lest peut alors être effectuée . This locating system delivers signals to a control device of the two orientable groups (4, 5). In ballast approach phase, it controls the passage of these groups in engine mode (propulsion). Otherwise, these groups (4, 5) pass for example in generator mode to recharge the battery housed in the body (1). Figure 1a shows another configuration, in which the functions of counterweight and attachment device are provided by two separate components: the support cage (20) and the attachment system (21). The support cage (20) remains attached to the traction cable and is heavy to ensure the counterweight function of the attachment device. The support cage is also used to receive the attachment system (21) for the phases of ascent and descent of the ballast. The attachment system (21) is movable in three dimensions, autonomous energy and always remains connected to the support cage via a flexible leash (22) windable / unrollable. It includes the ballast attachment hook (23) and an attachment system (24) to the support cage. In order to hang a weight resting on the seabed, the hooking system (21) out of the support cage (20) and approaches and then clings to the ballast using the fastening system (23). ). The leash (22) is then wound, which has the effect of bringing the support cage (20) until it attaches to the attachment system (21) using the system of fastener (24). The ballast can then be carried out.
DISPOSITIF D'AJUSTEMENT PILOTÉ DE LA LONGUEUR ET DE LA TENSION DU CABLE DE TRACTION DEVICE FOR ADJUSTING THE LENGTH AND TENSION OF THE TRACTION CABLE
Les figures 2 à 5 représentent une vue schématique du dispositif d'ajustement piloté de la longueur et de la tension du câble de traction en mode stockage d'électricité et les figures 6 à 9 représentent une vue schématique de ce même dispositif en mode production d'électricité. FIGS. 2 to 5 show a schematic view of the controlled adjustment device of the length and voltage of the traction cable in electricity storage mode, and FIGS. 6 to 9 show a schematic view of this same device in the production mode of FIG. 'electricity.
La plateforme comporte une machine électrique réversible couplée à un système de traction (10) du câble (3). The platform comprises a reversible electric machine coupled to a traction system (10) of the cable (3).
Dans cette configuration, le système comprend deux systèmes (11, 12) de compensation de la longueur du câble, utilisant des poulies a écartement variable de chaque côté du système de traction (10). La variation de l' écartement des poulies peut être réalisée par tout moyen mécanique et/ou hydraulique et/ou pneumatique. In this configuration, the system comprises two cable length compensation systems (11, 12) using variable spacing pulleys on each side of the traction system (10). The variation of the spacing of the pulleys can be achieved by any mechanical and / or hydraulic and / or pneumatic means.
Mode Stockage (figures 2 à 5) Lorsqu'un lest (101) remonte, les systèmes de compensation de longueur (11, 12) libèrent toute leur longueur de câble de façon à ce que la longueur totale de câble immergée soit supérieure à la profondeur de la colonne d'eau ( Figure 2 ) . Storage Mode (Figures 2 to 5) When a ballast (101) rises, the length compensation systems (11, 12) release their entire length of cable so that the total length of submerged cable is greater than the depth of the water column (Figure 2).
Une fois que le système d'accrochage (2R) opposé atteint sa position d'élévation cible (15), le système de compensation de longueur (12) situé du côté du système d'accrochage (2L) emmagasine seul le surplus de longueur afin de permettre la poursuite de l'ascension du système d'accrochage (2L) et du lest (101). Cela permet, alors que le lest (101) monte toujours, de procéder à la manœuvre d'accrochage d'un autre lest (102) du côté opposé sans interrompre l'ascension dudit système d'accrochage (2L) et dudit lest (101) . Once the opposing attachment system (2 R ) reaches its target elevation position (15), the length compensation system (12) located on the side of the attachment system (2 L ) stores only the surplus of length to allow the continuation of the ascent of the attachment system (2 L ) and the ballast (101). This allows, while the ballast (101) still rises, to proceed to the hooking operation of another ballast (102) on the opposite side without interrupting the ascent of said attachment system (2 L ) and said ballast ( 101).
Une fois le lest opposé (102) accroché, le lest (101) termine son ascension et atteint sa position d'élévation cible (16). La longueur totale de câble immergée est alors égale à la profondeur de la colonne d'eau (Figure 3). Once the opposite ballast (102) is hung, the ballast (101) ends its ascent and reaches its target elevation position (16). The total length of submerged cable is then equal to the depth of the water column (Figure 3).
Le lest (102) qui vient d'être accroché commence alors son ascension et simultanément le système de compensation de longueur (11) situé du côté du lest (101) ayant atteint sa position d'élévation cible (16) commence à emmagasiner la longueur de câble permettant audit lest (101) d'être maintenu immobile pour la manœuvre de son décrochage alors que le lest (102) poursuit son ascension Une fois ledit lest (101) décroché, les deux systèmes de compensation de longueur (11, 12) ont alors emmagasiné du câble au maximum de leur capacité. La longueur totale de câble immergée est alors inférieure à la profondeur de la colonne d'eau (Figure 4). Le lest (102) continue son ascension et le dispositif d'accrochage (2L) situé du côté opposé commence sa descente . Les deux systèmes de compensation de longueur (11, 12) libèrent alors toute leur longueur de câble avant que le lest (102) ait terminé son ascension. Le dispositif d'accrochage (2L) situé du côté opposé descend ainsi plus rapidement que ne monte le lest (102), ce qui permet audit dispositif d'accrochage (2L) de commencer la manœuvre d'accrochage d'un nouveau lest (103) alors que le lest (102) est toujours en train de monter (figure 5). The ballast (102) that has just been hooked then begins its ascent and simultaneously the length compensation system (11) located on the ballast side (101) having reached its target elevation position (16) begins to store the length cable allowing said ballast (101) to be kept motionless for the maneuver of its stall while the ballast (102) continues its ascent Once said ballast (101) off the hook, the two length compensation systems (11, 12) then stored cable to the maximum of their capacity. The total length of submerged cable is then less than the depth of the water column (Figure 4). The ballast (102) continues its ascent and the attachment device (2 L ) located on the opposite side begins its descent. The two length compensation systems (11, 12) then release their entire length of cable before the ballast (102) has completed its ascent. The hooking device (2 L ) located on the opposite side thus descends faster than the ballast (102), which allows said hooking device (2 L ) to start the hooking operation of a new ballast (103) while the ballast (102) is still climbing (Figure 5).
L'opération est répétée jusqu'au transfert de la totalité des lests depuis la seconde position d'élévation jusqu'à la première position d'élévation. The operation is repeated until the transfer of all the weights from the second elevation position to the first elevation position.
Mode production illustré par les figures 6 à 9 : Production mode illustrated by Figures 6 to 9:
Lorsqu'un lest (111) descend, les systèmes de compensation de longueur (11, 12) emmagasinent le maximum possible de câble de façon à ce que la longueur totale de câble immergée soit inférieure à la profondeur de la colonne d'eau (Figure 6 ) . When ballast (111) descends, the length compensation systems (11, 12) store as much cable as possible so that the total length of submerged cable is less than the depth of the water column (Figure 6).
Une fois que le système d'accrochage (2R) opposé atteint sa position d'élévation cible (16), le système de compensation de longueur (12) situé du côté du système d'accrochage (2R) libère seul la longueur de câble afin de permettre la poursuite de la descente du système d'accrochage (2L) et du lest (111) accroché de l'autre coté. Cela permet, alors que le lest (111) descend toujours, de procéder à la manœuvre d'accrochage d'un autre lest (112) du côté opposé sans interrompre la descente dudit système d'accrochage (2L) et dudit lest (111) . Once the opposing attachment system (2 R ) reaches its target elevation position (16), the length compensation system (12) located on the latching system (2 R ) side releases only the length of the cable to allow the continuation of the descent of the hooking system (2 L ) and the ballast (111) hooked on the other side. This allows, while the ballast (111) still descends, to proceed to the hooking operation of another ballast (112) on the opposite side without interrupting the descent of said attachment system (2 L ) and said ballast (111). ).
Une fois le lest (112) accroché, le lest (111) termine sa descente et atteint sa position d'élévation cible (15). La longueur totale de câble immergée est alors égale à la profondeur de la colonne d'eau (Figure 7). Le lest (112) qui vient d'être accroché commence alors sa descente et simultanément le système de compensation de longueur (11) situé du côté du lest (111) ayant atteint sa position cible (15) commence à libérer la longueur de câble permettant audit lest (111) d'être maintenu immobile pour la manœuvre de son décrochage alors que le lest opposé (112) poursuit sa descente. Once the ballast (112) is hooked, the ballast (111) ends its descent and reaches its target elevation position (15). The total length of submerged cable is then equal to the depth of the water column (Figure 7). The ballast (112) that has just been hooked then begins its descent and simultaneously the length compensation system (11) located on the ballast side (111) having reached its target position (15) begins to release the cable length allowing ballast audit (111) to be kept stationary for the maneuver of its stall while the opposite ballast (112) continues its descent.
Une fois le lest opposé (111) décroché, les deux systèmes de compensation de longueur (11, 12) sont au minimum de leur capacité. La longueur totale de câble immergé est alors supérieure à la profondeur de la colonne d'eau (Figure 8). Once the opposite ballast (111) is off the hook, the two length compensation systems (11, 12) are at least their capacity. The total length of submerged cable is then greater than the depth of the water column (Figure 8).
Le lest (112) continue sa descente et le dispositif d'accrochage (2L) situé du côté opposé commence son ascension. Les deux systèmes de compensation de longueur (11,The ballast (112) continues its descent and the attachment device (2 L ) located on the opposite side begins its ascent. The two length compensation systems (11,
12) emmagasinent alors la longueur de câble au maximum de leur capacité avant que le lest (112) ait terminé sa descente. Le dispositif d'accrochage (2L) situé du côté opposé monte ainsi plus rapidement que ne descend le lest (112), ce qui permet audit dispositif d'accrochage (2L) de commencer la manœuvre d'accrochage d'un nouveau lest (113) alors que le lest (112) est toujours en train de monter (Figure 9). 12) then store the cable length to their maximum capacity before the ballast (112) has completed its descent. The hooking device (2 L ) located on the opposite side thus rises more rapidly than the ballast (112) drops, which allows said hooking device (2 L ) to start the hooking operation of a new ballast. (113) while the ballast (112) is still climbing (Figure 9).
L'opération est répétée jusqu'au transfert de la totalité des lests depuis la première position d'élévation jusqu'à la seconde position d'élévation. The operation is repeated until the transfer of all the weights from the first elevation position to the second elevation position.
NATURE DES CABLES NATURE OF CABLES
Les câbles de traction en acier sont plus durables et moins onéreux que les câbles synthétiques pour l'utilisation cyclique prévue dans la présente invention. Cependant ils présentent l'inconvénient d'avoir une densité environ sept fois supérieure aux câbles de traction synthétiques. La variation de leur masse induite par la variation de leur longueur suspendue peut entraîner une variation conséquente de la vitesse de descente ou de montée du lest. L'utilisation d'une génératrice/moteur à vitesse variable permet d'ajuster la vitesse de descente des lests en fonction de la profondeur afin de compenser la variation de masse engendrée par le poids suspendu du câble de traction. Steel tensile cords are more durable and less expensive than synthetic cables for the cyclic use provided in the present invention. However, they have the disadvantage of having a density approximately seven times greater than the traction cables synthetic. The variation of their mass induced by the variation of their suspended length can cause a consequent variation of the speed of descent or rise of the ballast. The use of a variable speed generator / motor makes it possible to adjust the speed of descent of the weights as a function of the depth in order to compensate for the variation in mass caused by the suspended weight of the traction cable.
Cette variante nécessite de faire varier la vitesse de descente des lests afin de conserver une puissance de production (ou consommation) constante tout au long de la descente (remontée) malgré la variation de poids due à la longueur suspendue de câble. This variant requires to vary the descent speed of the weights in order to maintain a constant production power (or consumption) throughout the descent (ascent) despite the variation in weight due to the length of cable suspension.
La variation de vitesse de descente des lests peut être contrôlée par de l'électronique de puissance côté génératrice/moteur. The descent speed variation of the weights can be controlled by power electronics on the generator / motor side.
REALISATION DU LEST REALIZATION OF THE LEST
Afin de réduire le coût de fabrication de lests capables d'atteindre de grandes profondeurs sans dégradation tout en ayant un profil hydrodynamique et une masse totale pouvant approcher 1000 tonnes, une variante particulière de l'invention concerne une conception structurelle spécifique consistant à limiter les quantités de matériaux onéreux (par exemple par le choix d'une structure en acier et en fibres synthétiques) en maximisant les quantités de matériaux lourds et peu chers (par exemple béton non armé). In order to reduce the cost of manufacture of weights capable of reaching great depths without degradation while having a hydrodynamic profile and a total mass of up to 1000 tons, a particular variant of the invention concerns a specific structural design of limiting the quantities. expensive materials (for example by choosing a steel structure and synthetic fibers) by maximizing the quantities of heavy and inexpensive materials (eg unreinforced concrete).
La figure 10 représente un exemple d'un tel lest. Figure 10 shows an example of such ballast.
A cet effet, la masse du matériau lourd (le béton non armé) est supportée par une coque métallique (30) en acier (ou autre matériau structurellement résistant) reliée au point d'accrochage (36) par un réseau de haubans (31 à 35) en fibres synthétiques et/ou en métal. La masse de béton (37) enveloppe les haubans (31 à 35) qui peuvent être soit noyés dans le béton (37), soit situés à l'intérieur de gaines dans le béton. Le béton lui-même peut être recouvert par un revêtement en matière polymère étanche pour permettre une meilleure tenue sous très haute pression. For this purpose, the mass of the heavy material (unreinforced concrete) is supported by a metal shell (30) of steel (or other structurally resistant material) connected to the attachment point (36) by a network of stays (31 to 35) of synthetic fibers and / or metal. The mass of concrete (37) envelopes the stays (31 to 35) which can be either embedded in the concrete (37) or located inside ducts in the concrete. The concrete itself can be covered by a coating of waterproof polymer material to allow better holding under very high pressure.
Cette variante concerne un lest non ballasté. C'est donc la plateforme qui doit être ballastée afin de compenser la variation de masse totale dûe au nombre variable de lests qu'elle doit supporter. LEST BALLASTÉ This variant concerns an unballasted ballast. It is therefore the platform that must be ballasted in order to compensate the total mass variation due to the variable number of weights it must support. LEST BALLASTÉ
Une autre variante pour la construction du lest consiste à construire un ballast (passif ou actif) associé à chaque lest. Another variant for the construction of the ballast is to build a ballast (passive or active) associated with each ballast.
La variante représentée en figures 11 et 12 consiste à envelopper le lest (40) d'une bouée formée par une enveloppe fermée (41) en matière plastique pouvant être souple ou autre matière. La bouée (41) peut être vidée et remplie par le bas (ballast passif) ou bien équipée d'une valve permettant le remplissage et/ou vidange d'air par le haut (ballast actif). The variant shown in Figures 11 and 12 consists of wrapping the ballast (40) of a buoy formed by a closed envelope (41) of plastic material that can be flexible or other material. The buoy (41) can be emptied and filled from below (passive ballast) or equipped with a valve for filling and / or air discharge from above (active ballast).
La bouée (41) est de forme hydrodynamique et est attachée au lest sur toute sa surface verticale, minimisant ainsi la tension lest/bouée par unité de surface. Le contact entre les deux peut être assurée soit : · Par collage, et/ou The buoy (41) is of hydrodynamic shape and is attached to the ballast over its entire vertical surface, thereby minimizing the ballast / buoy tension per unit area. The contact between the two can be assured either: · By gluing, and / or
• Par de nombreuses aspérités sur la surface extérieure du lest, et/ou • En concevant le lest un peu plus épais en haut qu'en bas, créant ainsi un « V » assurant le contact permanent du lest et de la bouée. • By many asperities on the outer surface of the ballast, and / or • By designing the ballast a little thicker at the top than at the bottom, creating a "V" ensuring the permanent contact of the ballast and the buoy.
La bouée profilée externe (41) représentée sur la figure 18 peut aussi être adaptée pour offrir un rôle potentiel de «pare-battage » entre lests à la surface ou en profondeur . The outer profiled buoy (41) shown in Fig. 18 may also be adapted to provide a potential role of "fender" between ballast at the surface or at depth.
STOCKAGE TAMPON D'ENERGIE ENERGY STAMP STORAGE
La compensation des creux de production/consommation du système peut être effectuée par des sources de stockage tampon d'énergie. Compensation of system production / consumption dips can be performed by energy buffering sources.
Ces sources de stockage tampon d'énergie peuvent être notamment : These energy buffer storage sources can be notably:
• Des batteries électrochimiques : une puissance maximum et une puissance minimum sont définies pour activer la charge et la décharge des batteries afin de lisser la production et la consommation en sortie de l'installation, • Electrochemical batteries: maximum power and minimum power are defined to activate the charging and discharging of the batteries in order to smooth the production and consumption at the output of the installation,
• Un système de stockage thermique, • A thermal storage system,
• Un système de stockage par volant d'inertie, · Un système de stockage par air comprimé, • A flywheel storage system, · A compressed air storage system,
• un ou plusieurs système(s) de levage dédié(s) au lissage de la production/consommation. La montée et la descente de ces lests à partir de ce(s) système(s) permet de combler les creux de production/consommation. • one or more lifting systems dedicated to the smoothing of production / consumption. The rise and descent of these weights from this system (s) allows to fill the gaps of production / consumption.
PLATEFORME MODULAIRE Une autre variante illustrée par les figures 13 et 14 consiste à réaliser une plateforme modulaire, formée de plusieurs unités complémentaires : MODULAR PLATFORM Another variant illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14 consists in producing a modular platform formed of several complementary units:
- La première unité (50) comprend le système de levage des lests (52), la génératrice (53) et les systèmes électriques . - The first unit (50) comprises the weight lifting system (52), the generator (53) and the electrical systems.
- la deuxième unité (51) comprend le système de stockage des lests en surface, et constitue le point d'attache du câble électrique (54) reliant la côte. En cas de tempête ou de mer très forte, la première unité (50) peut être ramenée en zone protégée (par ex. un port, une rive sous le vent) soit par sa propre motorisation soit par remorquage. La deuxième unité (51) reste au large mais, équipée de ballasts, elle peut éventuellement être positionnée sous la surface à une profondeur suffisante pour échapper à la force des vagues et du vent. the second unit (51) comprises the system for storing ballast on the surface, and constitutes the point of attachment of the electric cable (54) connecting the rib. In the event of a strong storm or sea, the first unit (50) can be returned to a protected area (eg a port, a lee shore) either by its own engine or by towing. The second unit (51) remains offshore but, equipped with ballasts, it can possibly be positioned under the surface to a depth sufficient to escape the strength of waves and wind.
L'objectif est de pouvoir protéger les systèmes de stockage en cas de tempête. The goal is to be able to protect storage systems in the event of a storm.
L'unité (50) contenant tous les systèmes de production électrique est la plus sensible aux effets de la tempête. Plus petite que la plate-forme de stockage (51) proprement dite, elle peut donc être déplacée plus facilement. L'autre unité (51) contient peu de systèmes électriques (alimentation des ballasts, et câble de raccordement au réseau) qui peuvent être rendus complètement étanches jusqu'à une profondeur suffisante pour minimiser les effets de grosse mer en surface. The unit (50) containing all electrical generating systems is the most sensitive to the effects of the storm. Smaller than the storage platform (51) itself, it can be moved more easily. The other unit (51) contains few electrical systems (ballast feed, and mains lead) that can be made completely sealed to a depth sufficient to minimize the effects of heavy sea surface.
- la première unité (50) peut se déplacer — et peut donc s'apparenter à un navire. - la deuxième unité (51) n'est pas conçue pour se déplacer, mais pour occuper un large espace modulaire au large, d'une taille suffisante pour être insensible au mouvement des vagues et, au besoin d'être immergée à une profondeur permettant de diminuer l'influence des vagues. - The first unit (50) can move - and can be likened to a ship. the second unit (51) is not designed to move, but to occupy a large modular space offshore, of sufficient size to be insensitive to the movement of the waves and, if necessary to be immersed to a depth allowing to reduce the influence of the waves.
• En mode normal, les deux unités sont solidement amarrées et ne constituent qu'un seul système. • In normal mode, both units are securely docked and are one system.
• Un système de découplage du câble haute tension (54) est mis en œuvre lors de la séparation des deux unités. • A decoupling system of the high voltage cable (54) is implemented during the separation of the two units.

Claims

Revendications claims
1 - Système de stockage et de production d'énergie électrique déployé dans un volume d'eau, ledit système comprenant une plate-forme, au moins un lest (52, 101 à 103, 111 à 113) posé sur le fond du volume d'eau, un système de levage (10) par traction d'un câble, en mesure de déplacer ledit lest entre une première position d'élévation et une deuxième position d'élévation, et un dispositif d'accrochage ( 2 ) commandé à distance couplé au système de levage et configuré à des fins de repérage et de couplage audit au moins un lest sur le fond du volume d'eau, ledit système de levage soulève et abaisse de manière sélective ledit au moins un lest lorsqu'il est couplé audit dispositif d'accrochage commandé à distance, depuis la première position d'élévation jusqu'à la deuxième position d'élévation, ledit système stocke et libère de 1 ' énergie quand ledit au moins un lest se déplace entre la première position d'élévation et la deuxième position d'élévation, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend un dispositif (11, 12) d'ajustement piloté de la longueur et de la tension du câble de traction permettant d'assurer la continuité et le lissage de la consommation/production d'électricité de 1 ' installation . 1 - System for storing and producing electrical energy deployed in a volume of water, said system comprising a platform, at least one ballast (52, 101 to 103, 111 to 113) placed on the bottom of the volume of water, a cable traction lifting system (10) able to move said ballast between a first elevation position and a second elevation position, and a remotely controlled coupling device (2) coupled to the lift system and configured for tracking and coupling to said at least one ballast on the bottom of the water volume, said lift system selectively raises and lowers said at least one ballast when coupled to said remotely controlled latching device, from the first elevation position to the second elevation position, said system stores and releases energy when said at least one ballast moves between the first elevation position and the second position of elevation, characterized in that it comprises a device (11, 12) for controlled adjustment of the length and the tension of the traction cable making it possible to ensure the continuity and the smoothing of the consumption / production of electricity of 1 installation.
2 - Système de stockage et de production d'énergie électrique selon la revendication précédente caractérisé en ce que ledit moyen (11 12) d'ajustement piloté de la longueur et de la tension du câble de traction (3) est constitué par un système à poulies dont l'espacement est ajustable par tout moyen mécanique et/ou hydraulique et/ou pneumatique commandé par un circuit électronique recevant un signal représentatif de la longueur et de la tension du câble. 2 - system for storing and producing electrical energy according to the preceding claim characterized in that said means (11 12) controlled adjustment of the length and voltage of the traction cable (3) is constituted by a system to pulleys whose spacing is adjustable by any mechanical and / or hydraulic and / or pneumatic means controlled by an electronic circuit receiving a signal representative of the length and voltage of the cable.
3 - Système de stockage et de production d'énergie électrique selon la revendication 1 caractérisé en ce que ledit dispositif d'accrochage comprend au moins un système de recharge autonome . 3 - system for storing and producing electrical energy according to claim 1 characterized in that said attachment device comprises at least one autonomous charging system.
4 - Système de stockage et de production d'énergie électrique selon la revendication précédente caractérisé en ce que ledit système de recharge autonome est constitué par un hydro générateur ( 4 , 5 ) . 4 - system for storing and producing electrical energy according to the preceding claim characterized in that said autonomous charging system is constituted by a hydro generator (4, 5).
5 - Système de stockage et de production d'énergie électrique selon la revendication 3 caractérisé en ce que ledit système de recharge autonome est constitué par un système pneumatique actionné par la variation de pression en fonction de la profondeur. 5 - system for storing and producing electrical energy according to claim 3 characterized in that said autonomous charging system is constituted by a pneumatic system actuated by the pressure variation as a function of the depth.
6 - Système de stockage et de production d'énergie électrique selon la revendication 1 caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte au moins un système de stockage tampon d'énergie et un circuit électronique pour commander la machine électrique en fonction d'une valeur de référence de puissance ou d'énergie à stocker ou restituer. 6 - system for storing and producing electrical energy according to claim 1 characterized in that it comprises at least one energy buffer storage system and an electronic circuit for controlling the electric machine according to a reference value power or energy to store or restore.
7 - Système de stockage et de production d'énergie électrique selon la revendication 6 caractérisé en ce que ledit système de stockage tampon d'énergie utilise de l'air comprimé . 7 - system for storing and producing electrical energy according to claim 6 characterized in that said energy buffer storage system uses compressed air.
8 - Système de stockage et de production d'énergie électrique selon la revendication 6 caractérisé en ce que ledit système de stockage tampon utilise au moins un volant d'inertie. 8 - system for storing and producing electrical energy according to claim 6 characterized in that said buffer storage system uses at least one flywheel.
9 - Système de stockage et de production d'énergie électrique selon la revendication 6 caractérisé en ce que ledit système de stockage tampon est un stockage thermique. 9 - system for storing and producing electrical energy according to claim 6 characterized in that said buffer storage system is a thermal storage.
10 - Système de stockage et de production d'énergie électrique selon la revendication 6 caractérisé en ce que ledit système de stockage tampon est une batterie électrochimique . 10 - system for storing and producing electrical energy according to claim 6 characterized in that said buffer storage system is an electrochemical battery.
11 -Système de stockage et de production d'énergie électrique selon la revendication 6 caractérisé en ce que ledit système de stockage tampon est constitué d'un lest supplémentaire couplé à une machine électrique réversible. 11 -System storage and production of electrical energy according to claim 6 characterized in that said buffer storage system consists of an additional ballast coupled to a reversible electric machine.
12 - Système de stockage et de production d'énergie électrique selon la revendication 1 caractérisé en ce que ledit au moins un lest est constitué d'une masse lourde en béton ou autre matériau dense, supportée par une coque en acier ou autre matériau structurellement résistant, reliée au point d'accrochage par un réseau de haubans (31) en fibres synthétiques et/ou en métal qui traversent la masse lourde. 12 - system for storing and producing electrical energy according to claim 1 characterized in that said at least one ballast consists of a heavy mass of concrete or other dense material, supported by a steel shell or other structurally resistant material connected to the point of attachment by a network of shrouds (31) of synthetic fibers and / or metal which pass through the heavy mass.
13 - Système de stockage et de production d'énergie électrique selon la revendication 1 caractérisé en ce que le lest est enveloppé d'une bouée formée par une enveloppe fermée de forme hydrodynamique en matière plastique pouvant être souple ou autre matière, pouvant être vidée et remplie par le bas (ballast passif) ou bien équipée d'une valve permettant le remplissage et/ou vidange d'air par le haut (ballast actif). 13 - system for storing and producing electrical energy according to claim 1 characterized in that the ballast is wrapped with a buoy formed by a closed envelope of hydrodynamic shape of plastic material that can be flexible or other material, can be emptied and filled from below (passive ballast) or equipped with a valve allowing the filling and / or emptying of air from above (active ballast).
14 - Système de stockage et de production d'énergie électrique selon la revendication 1 caractérisé en ce que la plateforme est modulaire, formée de deux unités complémentaires, la première étant fixe et comprenant le système de stockage des lests en surface, et constitue le point d'attache du câble électrique reliant la côte, l'autre étant mobile et comprenant le système de levage des lests, la génératrice et les systèmes électriques. 14 - system for storing and producing electrical energy according to claim 1 characterized in that the platform is modular, formed of two complementary units, the first being fixed and comprising the storage system of ballast on the surface, and constitutes the point of the electrical cable connecting the coast, the other being mobile and comprising the ballast lifting system, the generator and the electrical systems.
15 - Système de stockage et de production d'énergie électrique selon la revendication 1 caractérisé en ce que ledit dispositif d'accrochage est constitué de deux composants, l'un restant attaché au câble de traction et jouant le rôle de contrepoids et de cage-support au second composant, lequel est mobile et autonome énergétiquement et relié au premier à l'aide d'une laisse enroulable/déroulable et possédant le grappin d'attache aux lests. 15 - system for storing and producing electrical energy according to claim 1 characterized in that said attachment device consists of two components, one remaining attached to the traction cable and acting as counterweight and cage-support to the second component, which is movable and self-sufficient energy and connected to the first using a windable leash / unrollable and having the attachment hook to the weights.
PCT/FR2017/051772 2016-07-06 2017-06-30 System for storing and producing electrical energy by gravity using submergeable weights WO2018007728A1 (en)

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FR1656455A FR3053741A1 (en) 2016-07-06 2016-07-06 SYSTEM FOR STORING AND GENERATING ELECTRIC ENERGY BY GRAVITY THROUGH IMMERSIONABLE LESTS
FRFR1656455 2016-07-06

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Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2021119765A1 (en) * 2019-12-19 2021-06-24 Christopher Colin Stephen Mechanical energy storage

Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE4135440A1 (en) * 1991-10-26 1993-04-29 Erich Kettler Electric generating plant for mains peak load coverage - uses potential energy of weights lowered into underground storage for return to surface in off=peak periods
DE102008054229A1 (en) * 2008-10-31 2010-05-12 Zorbedo Gmbh Composite system for the generation and electromechanical storage of electrical energy
WO2013050343A2 (en) * 2011-10-03 2013-04-11 GEORGITZIKI, Elpida Method and system for storage and recovery of electrical energy
WO2014160522A1 (en) 2013-03-14 2014-10-02 The Research Foundation For The State University Of New York Energy storage system deployed in a body of water

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE4135440A1 (en) * 1991-10-26 1993-04-29 Erich Kettler Electric generating plant for mains peak load coverage - uses potential energy of weights lowered into underground storage for return to surface in off=peak periods
DE102008054229A1 (en) * 2008-10-31 2010-05-12 Zorbedo Gmbh Composite system for the generation and electromechanical storage of electrical energy
WO2013050343A2 (en) * 2011-10-03 2013-04-11 GEORGITZIKI, Elpida Method and system for storage and recovery of electrical energy
WO2014160522A1 (en) 2013-03-14 2014-10-02 The Research Foundation For The State University Of New York Energy storage system deployed in a body of water

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2021119765A1 (en) * 2019-12-19 2021-06-24 Christopher Colin Stephen Mechanical energy storage

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