WO2022034495A1

WO2022034495A1 - System for generating electrical energy, intended to be associated with at least a section of a terrestrial traffic route

Info

Publication number: WO2022034495A1
Application number: PCT/IB2021/057363
Authority: WO
Inventors: Kamal KAINA
Original assignee: Kaina Kamal
Priority date: 2020-08-11
Filing date: 2021-08-10
Publication date: 2022-02-17

Abstract

The invention relates to a system for generating electrical energy, intended to be associated with at least a section of a terrestrial traffic route, the system comprising at least one collection device (2) having at least one elastically deformable tube (9, 10) that, in service, is arranged on the section so as to project only partly beyond said section, the tube being connected to a closed circuit for the circulation of at least one fluid of the system such that the fluid can also flow inside the tube, the system furthermore comprising a conversion member (18) arranged in the circuit such that the circulation of the fluid through said member causes said member to generate electrical energy.

Description

System for generating electrical energy intended to be associated with at least one section of a land traffic lane

The invention relates to a system for generating electrical energy intended to be associated with at least one section of a land traffic lane.

The invention relates more particularly to a system for generating electrical energy from the passage of vehicles, cyclists, pedestrians, etc. on the stretch of track intended to be associated with said system.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Electrical energy is generally produced from fossil fuels. However, humanity today uses large quantities of fossil fuels which are the cause of a significant imbalance in the carbon cycle, which causes an increase in the concentration of greenhouse gases in the Earth's atmosphere and , as a result, leads to climate change.

Nuclear energy emits much less greenhouse gases but inevitably raises ethical and security issues, particularly in terms of nuclear waste. It is therefore necessary to develop solutions based on so-called renewable and/or recovered energies to limit global warming as much as possible.

It was thus proposed to arrange solar panels in the roads so that they could benefit from the ambient lighting.

It has also been envisaged to arrange piezoelectric cells in the roads so that they can be deformed by the passage of vehicles traveling on these roads in order to produce electrical energy accordingly. However in both cases the solar panels like the piezoelectric cells are expensive to produce. In addition, they prove to be fragile even though it is difficult to carry out maintenance operations on these cells and/or panels due to their being embedded in the ground.

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

An object of the invention is to provide a system for generating electrical energy, intended to be associated with at least one section of a land taxiway, which is of a more robust construction.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

With a view to achieving this object, the invention proposes a system for generating electrical energy intended to be associated with at least one section of a terrestrial traffic lane, the system comprising at least one recovery device comprising at at least one elastically deformable tube arranged in service in the section, the tube being connected to a closed circulation circuit for at least one fluid of the system so that the fluid can also flow inside the tube, the system comprising furthermore a conversion member arranged in the circuit so that the circulation of the fluid through said member causes the generation of electrical energy by said member. In this way, the passage of vehicles, cyclists, pedestrians, etc. over the recovery device will lead to a deformation of the tube causing a displacement of the fluid in the circuit: this makes it possible to drive the conversion device and thus to produce electrical energy. Once the vehicle, the cyclist, the pedestrian, etc. have passed, the tube resumes its initial shape, again causing the fluid to move in the circuit. During the passage of a new vehicle, cyclist, pedestrian ... the tube is deformed again and a new cycle resumes. The invention thus makes it possible to generate electrical energy from the passage of vehicles, cyclists, pedestrians, etc. on the land traffic lane in a simple and robust manner. It is noted in particular that the recovery device is of a relatively simplified and solid structure.

The invention also makes it possible to generate electrical energy in a “clean” manner without recourse to fossil and/or nuclear energies. The invention thus cleverly makes it possible to recover energy which would be lost without the invention during the passage of vehicles, cyclists and/or pedestrians on the land traffic lane.

By "land traffic lane", we hereafter mean both a sidewalk or any other ground on which pedestrians are intended to walk, a roadway, a platform or any other ground on which motorized vehicles (car, heavy, buses, motorcycles ...) and non-motorized (bicycles, scooters ...) are intended to run, that a railway or any other ground on which rail vehicles (train, metro, tram ...) are intended to ride. Optionally, the circuit comprises a stabilization chamber arranged between the device and the conversion member.

Optionally, the system comprises at least one evacuation pipe making it possible to connect the device and the conversion member without passing through the stabilization chamber.

Optionally, the system comprises at least one evacuation pipe making it possible to connect the device and a zone of the circuit arranged downstream of the conversion member, without passing through the stabilization chamber or through the conversion member. Optionally the conversion member is a turbine. Optionally, the circuit includes a reservoir arranged in the circuit downstream of the conversion unit. The invention also relates to a device for recovering such a system.

Optionally, the device comprises a first right assembly comprising at least one tube and a second left assembly comprising at least one tube.

Optionally the device comprises at least two modules extending in the extension of one another, each module comprising at least one tube.

Optionally, the device comprises at least three modules, the modules all extending in the extension of each other.

Optionally the device comprises at least one unit comprising at least two tubes, the two tubes being connected in series.

Optionally the tube is a tube for a peristaltic pump.

Optionally the tube is intended to be arranged in the section in a deformed manner.

Optionally, the device comprises at least one tube deformation limiter.

Optionally, the limiter is an insert arranged inside the tube.

Optionally, the device comprises a distribution plate arranged plumb with the tube.

Optionally the distribution plate (50) comprises at least one layer chosen from the following layers:

- a layer based on bitumen (51, 53) and/or

- a layer of armatures (52, 54) and/or

- a support layer (55).

Optionally, the support layer comprises at least one row of posts.

The invention also relates to an installation comprising a system as mentioned above and means exploitation of the electrical energy produced by said system.

Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will become apparent on reading the following description of a particular non-limitative embodiment of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The invention will be better understood in the light of the following description with reference to the appended diagrammatic figures, among which:

Figure 1 schematically illustrates a system according to a particular embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2a is a sectional view of a tube of the system represented in FIG. 1, according to a radial section plane, when the tube is not yet in place in a section of taxiway associated with said system and is thus in rest position;

FIG. 2b is a view in radial section of the tube illustrated in FIG. 2a when the tube is in place in the section, the tube being in the prestressed position but without being loaded;

FIG. 2c is a sectional view of the tube shown in FIG. 2a when the tube is in place in the section and is temporarily loaded following the passage of a vehicle over said section, the tube then being in the prestressed and loaded position;

FIG. 3a is a graph schematizing the waves generated in the system represented in FIG. 1 during an example of passage of the front wheels of vehicles over said system;

FIG. 3b is a graph schematizing the waves generated in the system represented in FIG. 1 during an example of the passage of rear wheels of vehicles on said system;

FIG. 3c is a graph schematizing the waves generated in the system represented in FIG. 1 during an example of passage of vehicles over said system; FIG. 4 is a graph schematizing the volume of fluid at the outlet of a first manifold of the system represented in FIG. 1 during an example of passage of vehicles over said system;

FIG. 5a is a schematic cross-sectional view of part of the system represented in FIG. 1 in place in the associated section when a wheel rolls over it;

FIG. 5b is a schematic view, in axial section, of part of the system shown in FIG. 1 in place in the associated section when a wheel rolls over it.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

With reference to FIG. 1, the system for generating electrical energy, generally designated at 1, according to a particular embodiment of the invention is associated with a section of platform and more particularly here with the section of roadway 0 of said section of platform on which motorized vehicles (cars, buses, trucks, motorcycles, etc.) drive. This application is of course not limiting and the system 1 can be applied to other applications such as sidewalks, cycle paths, railways, etc.

The system 1 comprises at least one device 2 for recovering an energy released by the vehicles when they are driving on the road section C in question. This energy can be of the kinetic type and/or friction and/or potential.... In the present case, the system 1 strictly comprises a single device 2 associated with one of the two arteries V of the section of roadway C considered.

The considered artery V extends in a longitudinal direction X. Preferably, the device 2 is arranged at a rectilinear portion of said artery V.

The device 2 here comprises a right assembly 3a and a left assembly 3b. Thus the right assembly 3a is arranged in the artery V so that it is preferentially the right tires of the vehicles which are intended to run above this right assembly 3a and the left assembly 3b is arranged in the artery V so that preferably it is the left tires of the vehicles which are intended to run above this left assembly 3b.

This allows the device to cover a larger area of the V artery.

The two right 3a and left 3b sets are preferably arranged in the artery V so that they have a spacing corresponding to an average standard spacing between the left and right tires of the vehicles driving mainly on the artery V.

According to a particular embodiment, each assembly 3a, 3b comprises at least two modules. In the present case, each set 3a, 3b comprises at least three modules and here strictly three modules.

The various modules of the right assembly 3a extend one after the other parallel to the longitudinal direction X. Similarly, the various modules of the left assembly 3b extending one after the other following the others parallel to the longitudinal direction X parallel to the modules of the right assembly 3a.

This allows the device 2 to cover a greater length (in the longitudinal direction X) of the artery V.

Preferably, the modules are arranged so that each module of the right assembly 3a extends at the level of only one of the modules of the left assembly 3b.

The device 2 thus comprises:

- A first right module 4a and a first left module 4b which are at the same level between them;

- A second right module 5a and a second left module 5b which are at the same level between them;

- A third right module 6a and a third left module 6b which are at the same level between them.

Each pair of right and left modules operates independently of the other pairs of right and left modules.

Optionally, each module comprises at least two units (of which only two are referenced 7, 8) and in the present case strictly two units. Each unit of the same module operates independently.

The two units of the same module extend parallel to each other. The two units of the same module extend side by side. The two units of the same module extend to the same level.

This allows the device 2 to cover a larger area of the considered artery V.

Each unit comprises at least one elastically deformable tube and optionally at least two tubes elastically deformable. Preferably, the at least two elastically deformable tubes are connected in series.

For each unit, its tubes extend consecutively parallel to the longitudinal direction X. The different tubes of the same unit are thus arranged so as to all extend parallel to each other.

Thus each unit comprises two tubes: an upstream tube 9 and a downstream tube 10 (only two tubes are referenced here). The second end of the upstream tube 9 is connected to the first end of the downstream tube 10, the first end of the upstream tube 9 forming the first end of the unit considered and the second end of the downstream tube 10 forming the second end of the unit considered.

In the present case, each unit strictly comprises two elastically deformable tubes 9, 10. The device 2 thus comprises a total of twenty-four elastically deformable tubes: 12 per right and left set (there are two sets 3a, 3b), 4 per module (there are six modules 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b) and 2 per unit (there are twelve units) .

The various tubes being all identical to each other, the following description of one of the tubes therefore applies to the other tubes.

As already indicated, the tube is a tube of elastically deformable material. The tube is for example a tube for a peristaltic pump.

As visible in Figure 2a, before being arranged in the artery V, the tube has at rest (that is to say without stress exerted on it) a radial ring section with a circular inner periphery and outer periphery. The external diameter of the tube is for example between 50 and 150 millimeters, more precisely between 80 and 120 millimeters and is for example 110 millimeters.

With reference to FIGS. 5a and 5b, the tube is here arranged in the artery V so as to protrude only partly from an upper face of the artery V. For this purpose, a groove R is provided in the artery V (so as to extend parallel to the longitudinal direction X) and the tube is arranged inside the latter so as to exceed it in height (the height of the tube being parallel to a normal N to the plane along which s extends the bottom of the groove R on which the tube rests, in this case the normal N is vertical). It is noted that each tube of the device 2 can be arranged alone in a dedicated groove or that several tubes of the device 2 can be arranged in the same groove.

Preferably, the tube is arranged in the artery V in a prestressed manner.

As can be seen in FIG. 2b, the tube is thus arranged in the artery V so that the tube is deformed with respect to its initial position. The tube is thus arranged in the artery V so as to present a hollow oblong radial section (with an internal periphery and an oblong external periphery) when it is in place in the artery V. This corresponds to a stable state of the tube once it is arranged in the artery V and that no vehicle is driving on the artery V substantially at its level.

The tube is typically arranged so that the height of the tube once in place in the artery V is at a value between 20 and 60% of the diameter of the tube at rest (before its insertion into the artery V) and typically between 30 and 50% of the diameter of the tube at rest and is optionally between 35 and 45% of the diameter of the tube at rest. Typically, the device 2 comprises at least one plate (not shown here) which rests on the bottom of the groove while being fixed to said bottom and the tube is secured to said plate, the plate thus being shaped to hold the tube in its prestressed position. in relation to Figure 2b. The plate is for example made of metallic material. The plate is for example made of steel.

If a vehicle rolls at the level of the tube, the latter will deform more vis-à-vis its prestressed position. As visible in FIG. 2c, the tube is thus arranged in the artery V so as to flatten out further. However, the tube then retains a hollow oblong radial section (with an internal periphery and an oblong external periphery). The groove R is thus arranged so as to be of larger dimensions than those of the tube; when the tube is in the prestressed position in the groove while the tube is not loaded (i.e. no vehicle is driving on the artery V); in order to allow the passage of a vehicle the deformation of the tube in the groove.

According to a preferred embodiment, the device 2 is shaped so that the vehicles do not press directly on at least one of the tubes. To this end, the device 2 comprises at least one distribution plate 50 which is arranged so as to cover at least one of the tubes. In this case, the distribution plate 50 covers all tubes. In service, the vehicles run directly on the distribution plate 50 which then presses itself directly on the tubes. The distribution plate 50 thus plays the role of the wearing course for the artery V.

The distribution plate 50 is here arranged so that in the prestressed position of the tube, without loading, the distribution plate 50 is spaced from the upper face of the artery V. For example, the distribution plate 50 is arranged so that the lower face of said distribution plate 50 is separated from the upper face of the artery by a distance of between 10 and 35 millimeters, preferably between 15 and 25 millimeters and preferably between 18 and 22 millimeters.

The distribution plate 50 comprises at least one layer chosen from the following layers:

- a layer based on bitumen and/or

- a layer of reinforcements and/or

- a backing layer.

Optionally, the bitumen-based layer is an asphalt layer and for example a polyurethane asphalt layer.

Optionally, the layer of reinforcements is a layer of metallic reinforcements and for example a layer of steel reinforcements. Said layer is for example shaped into a lattice with a first network of rods all parallel to each other and a second network of rods all parallel to each other, the two networks being arranged orthogonally with respect to each other. Typically at least one of the networks is arranged so to extend parallel to the longitudinal direction X. According to one option, the reinforcement layer comprises at least one additional reinforcing element. The reinforcing element is for example a blade such as a metal blade. The blade is for example made of steel and typically of harmonic steel.

Optionally, the support layer is a layer of posts and for example posts made of metallic material and/or of organic material of the wood type. The posts are preferably rigid. The posts are for example arranged one after the other so as to form a row of posts, the row of posts extending parallel to the longitudinal direction X. The various posts are preferably arranged at regular intervals from each other. . The different posts all run parallel to each other. The various posts are here arranged so as to extend parallel to a transverse direction Y which is orthogonal to the longitudinal direction X and to the normal N). Each post extends straight. Preferably, each post has a rounded support portion. Each post is optionally shaped so as to have a cross section having at least one arc of a circle. Each post is for example shaped like a half-cylinder.

According to a preferred embodiment, the distribution plate 50 is multilayered and comprises at least two different layers chosen from the aforementioned layers (bitumen-based layer; reinforcement layer; support layer). The distribution plate 50 comprises here successively from top to bottom:

- a first bitumen-based layer 51, the upper face of the first bitumen-based layer 51 being the face on which the vehicles roll directly,

- a first layer of reinforcements 52, the first layer of reinforcements 52 being directly in contact with the first bitumen-based layer 51 without an intermediate layer,

- a second bitumen-based layer 53, the second bitumen-based layer 53 being directly in contact with the first reinforcement layer 52 without an intermediate layer,

- a second layer of reinforcements 54, the second layer of reinforcements 54 being directly in contact with the second bitumen-based layer 53 without intermediate layer,

- A support layer 55, the support layer being directly in contact with the second layer of armatures 54 without intermediate layer, the lower face of the support layer 55 being that pressing directly on the tubes of the device 2 .

The distribution plate 50 is here arranged so that the support layer 55 is directly in contact with the tubes. The support layer 55 is thus shaped so that the flat part of each post is that in contact with the second layer of reinforcements 54 and the rounded part of each post is that in contact with the tubes. Furthermore, the two reinforcement layers here each comprise at least one additional reinforcing blade 56, said blades being arranged in the distribution plate 50 so as to overhang at least one of the tubes.

Preferably, the device 2 comprises at least one deformation limiter for each of its tubes when vehicles pass.

This prevents the tubes from being destroyed or damaged by the passage of vehicles.

In the present case, the device 2 comprises a plurality of deformation limiters for each of its tubes.

In particular, the limiters are arranged to limit a deformation in a direction parallel to the normal N i . e. a vertical deformation.

The limiters are thus arranged so that the height of the tube considered is at least at a value between 15 and 25% of the diameter of the tube at rest and typically between 20 and 25% of the diameter of the tube at rest and for example between 22 and 24 % of the diameter of the tube at rest. Alternatively or in addition, the limiters are arranged so that the height of the tube is at least at a value between 50 and 60% of the height of the tube prestressed in the artery V but not loaded and typically between 54 and 57% of the height of the prestressed tube in the artery V but not loaded. Alternatively or in addition, the limiters are arranged so that the crushing height (i.e. the difference between the height of the tube prestressed in the artery V but not loaded and the height of the tube prestressed in the artery V on which a vehicle is traveling) does not exceed a value between 15 and 25 millimeters and typically between 18 and 22 millimeters. Alternatively or in addition, the limiters are arranged so that the height of the prestressed tube in the artery V on which a vehicle is traveling is at least at a value between 20 and 30 millimeters and typically between 22 and 28 millimeters and is for example 25 millimeters. In the present case, the different limiters are identical to each other so that the following description of one of the limiters is applicable to the other limiters.

According to a particular embodiment, the limiter is an insert 11 arranged inside the tube. The insert 11 can be fixed to the tube or arranged without being fixed inside the tube.

The insert 11 is here arranged so as to extend rectilinearly. The insert 11 is here arranged so as to extend rectilinearly in a direction which is here substantially parallel to the normal N. Thus, the insert 11 is arranged vertically in the tube.

The insert 11 is for example shaped as a hollow or solid cylinder (at least when it is not loaded) extending so that its main axis is parallel to the normal N. In the present case, the insert 11 is shaped as a stud in the form of a hollow cylinder (at least when it is not loaded).

Optionally the insert 11 is made of an elastically deformable material. The insert 11 is for example a pipe for a peristaltic pump and/or made of elastomeric material. According to a particular embodiment, the various inserts 11 are arranged in a tube so as to form at least one row of inserts 11 (as more visible in FIG. 5a). Within the row, the inserts 11 are preferably arranged at regular intervals. The row is arranged in the tube so as to extend in a direction parallel to the axial direction of the tube. In the present case, the direction in which the row extends is substantially coincident with the axial direction of the tube. The inserts 11 are therefore centered in the tube (if we consider a radial section plane of the tube). Preferably, the inserts 11 are arranged so that each post of the support layer 5 is associated with at least one insert 11. Thus each post of the support layer 5 comes to rest on the tube at the level of one of the inserts 11.

Furthermore, the system 1 comprises a closed circulation circuit for at least one fluid. In the present case, a single fluid circulates in the closed circuit. The fluid is for example water but any other fluid can be used in the system 1. Each unit working independently, each unit is thus independently connected to said circuit.

In fact, each unit is connected by its second end to an outlet pipe 13. Preferably a control device is associated with the connection of each unit to its outlet pipe 13. The control device is typically a non-return device and for example a non-return valve or a non-return valve. Once past the non-return devices, the output pipes 13 of the first right module 4a and the first left module 4b (ie four output pipes) are all connected to a first output channel 14; the output pipes of the second right module 5a and of the second left module 5b (i.e. four output pipes) are all connected to a second output channel 15 and the output pipes of the third right module 6a and of the third left module 6b (i.e. four output pipes) are all connected to a third output channel 16 . The three output channels 14, 15, 16 all open into a first common collector 17.

It is thus retained that each pair of right and left modules works independently of the other pairs of right and left modules.

Preferably, the circuit also includes control devices associated with the connection of each output channel 14, 15, 16 to the first collector 17 . Each control device is for example a non-return device and for example a non-return valve or else a non-return valve.

The first manifold 17 comprises at least one first evacuation pipe extending between the first manifold 17 and a conversion member 18 of the system 1 . The conversion member 18 is typically a member comprising a mobile element mounted and in contact with the fluid: when the fluid moves in the circuit, this causes the mobile element of the conversion member 18 and thereby the generation of an electric current. The conversion member 18 is for example such that the movable element is a rotating element. The conversion member 18 is for example a turbine such as a Pelton turbine.

System 1 optionally includes an inverter associated with the output of conversion unit 18.

According to a preferred embodiment, the first evacuation pipe does not directly connect the first collector 17 to the conversion member 18. The system 1 thus comprises a stabilization chamber 19 in which a first section 20 of the first pipe d evacuation opens, the first section 20 thus directly connecting the first manifold 17 to the stabilization chamber 19. Preferably, a control device 21 is associated with the connection of the first evacuation pipe to said chamber 19. The device control 21 is for example a non-return device and for example a non-return valve or a non-return valve.

Furthermore, the first evacuation pipe comprises a second section 22 which directly connects the stabilization chamber 19 to the conversion member 18. Preferably, a control device 23 is associated with the connection of said second section 22 to the stabilization 19. Typically the monitoring device 23 is a monitoring device for the pressure prevailing in the stabilization chamber 19: the monitoring device 23 is thus based on a first reference pressure in the stabilization chamber 19 to open or close and thus feed or not the conversion member 18 by the fluid. For example, the control device 23 is a non-return device (such as a non-return valve, a non-return valve, etc.) associated with a temperature sensor. pressure: the non-return device is closed until the pressure sensor gives the order to open it.

Preferably, the first manifold 17 comprises at least one second evacuation conduit 24 extending between the first manifold 17 and the conversion member 18. The second evacuation conduit 24 thus here opens at a first end into the first collector 17 and at a second end in the second section 22 of the first evacuation pipe.

Preferably, a control device 25 is associated with the connection of the second evacuation pipe 24. Typically the control device 25 is a control device for the pressure prevailing in the first collector 17: the control device 25 is thus based on a second reference pressure in the first manifold 17 to open or close and thus supply or not supply the conversion member 18 with the fluid. For example, the control device 25 is a non-return device (such as a non-return valve, a non-return valve, etc.) associated with a pressure sensor: the non-return device is closed as long as the pressure sensor does not give the order to open it.

Preferably, said control device 25 is configured so as to only open at a pressure greater than the pressure at which the control device 23 associated with the first evacuation pipe opens. The control device 25 thus forms a safety valve of the circuit. Preferably, a control device 26 is associated with the connection of the second evacuation pipe 24 to the second section 22. The control device 26 is for example a non-return device and for example a non-return valve or else a non-return valve.

In particular, the circuit includes a tank 30 associated with the conversion unit 18, the tank 30 being arranged immediately downstream of the conversion unit 18 in the circuit.

Preferably, the first manifold 17 comprises at least one third evacuation pipe 27 extending between the first collector 17 and the said tank 30. The third evacuation pipe 27 thus opens at a first end into the first collector 17 and at a second end in the tank 30.

Preferably, a control device 28 is associated with the connection of the third evacuation pipe 27. Typically the control device 28 is a control device for the pressure prevailing in the first collector 17: the control device 28 is thus based on a third reference pressure in the first manifold 17 to open or close and thus supply or not supply the conversion member 18 with the fluid. For example, the control device 28 is a non-return device (such as a non-return valve, a non-return valve, etc.) associated with a pressure sensor: the non-return device is closed as long as the pressure sensor does not give the order to open it.

Preferably, said control device 28 is configured so as to open only at a pressure greater than the pressure at which the control device 25 associated with the second evacuation pipe 24 opens.

The control device 28 thus forms a safety valve.

Reservoir 30 is itself directly connected to a second manifold 31.

To this second collector 31 are connected three input channels 32, 33, 34.

Preferably a control device is associated with the connection of each input channel 32, 33, 34 to the second collector. The control device is typically a non-return device and for example a non-return valve or else a non-return valve.

The first input channel 32 is connected only to the first right module 4a and to the first left module 4b via two input pipes 35. Similarly the second input channel 33 is connected only to the second right module 5a and to the second left module 5b via two inlet pipes 35. Similarly the third inlet channel 34 is connected only to the third right module 6a and to the third left module 6b via two pipes of entry 35.

Furthermore, within a module, each unit of the module considered is connected by its first end to a respective one of the two inlet pipes 35 associated with said module. Preferably a control device is associated with the connection of each unit to its inlet pipe 35. The control device is typically a non-return device and for example a non-return valve or a non-return valve.

It is clearly seen here again that each pair of modules can work independently of the other pairs of modules and that, moreover, within the same module, each unit can work independently of the other unit.

It is also noted that each tube of system 1 is thus connected at each of its two ends to the circuit either directly (at one of its ends) or indirectly (at the other of its ends) via the other tube of its unit with which it is connected in series. It is also noted that the control devices of the modules frame the various units and make it possible to impose a single direction of circulation of the fluid in the circuit, which direction is that in which the vehicles circulate on the considered artery V.

The various tubular elements of the circuit other than the tubes of the device (inlet pipe, outlet pipe, inlet channel, outlet channel, evacuation pipe, etc.) can be rigid or, on the contrary, elastically deformable. Some or all of the tubular elements of the circuit can thus be rigid, elastically deformable, take the form of peristaltic tubes, etc.

Preferably, the tubes of device 2 all have a larger diameter than that or those of the other tubular elements of the circuit.

Preferably, the system 1 comprises a system control member (not shown here) and in particular the various control devices. The control member is in particular configured to limit the pressure fluctuations in the circuit at the inlet of the conversion member 18 and/or the variations in fluid flow rate at the inlet of the conversion member 18.

The control unit is for example a controller, a computer, a calculator, etc. The control unit can optionally integrate a PID (proportional, integral, derivative) regulator.

We will now describe the operation of the system 1. In the initial state (even before the passage of a first vehicle), the stabilization chamber 19 is filled with a predetermined volume of fluid. The stabilization chamber 19 is for example filled with a volume of fluid comprised between 500 and 2000 liters and for example comprised between 1000 and 1500 liters.

When a vehicle arrives at the level of the device 2, it begins by rolling, via the distribution plate 50, on one or more tubes of the first left module 4b via its left front wheels and one or more tubes of the first module right 4a via its right front wheels.

This leads to a deformation of the tubes concerned and thereby a displacement of the fluid contained in the tubes towards the outlet pipes 13 then in the first outlet channel 14 as far as the first manifold 17.

As the vehicle moves forward, other tubes of the second modules 5a, 5b then of the third modules 6a, 6b are also deformed, also causing a displacement of the fluid from the tubes concerned into the first manifold 17. The first collector 17 can thus continue to fill the stabilization chamber 19 via the first section 20 causing an increase in the pressure in the stabilization chamber. The control member opens the control device 23 of the second section 22 at the first reference pressure: fluid therefore flows from the stabilization chamber 19 into the conversion member 18 which makes it possible to generate 'electric energy. On the other hand, the other two control devices 25, 28 of the second evacuation pipe 24 and of the third evacuation pipe 27 are closed.

The fluid then flows naturally from the conversion unit 18 to the reservoir 30 then to the second manifold 31 in order to return to the tubes. This circulation of the fluid is facilitated by the return to the unloaded prestressed position of the various tubes as the vehicle moves forward and releases its action on the tubes concerned.

It is noted that the fluid circulates only in a single direction of circulation in the circuit and in particular only circulates from the second ends of the units to the first ends of the units thanks to the various control devices.

Furthermore, the contraction and relaxation of the tubes under the action of the passage of vehicles over said tubes cause a displacement of the fluid in the circuit but also pressure fluctuations (or pulsations) in the circuit at least at the level of the device 2. To simplify, if we neglect the inertia of system 1 and the friction within said system 1, when a vehicle passes, these pulsations can be defined by a train of square-shaped waves generated by the front wheels then another square-shaped wave train generated by the rear wheels of the same vehicle.

The system is for example sized so that the pulsations have an amplitude of at least 1 bar and preferably of at least 1.3 bars.

Furthermore, it is noted that the stabilization chamber 19 as well as the first collector 17 each play the role of a buffer zone: this thus makes it possible to attenuate or even eliminate the pulsations in the circuit before they reach the conversion device 18.

In addition, it is noted that the operation of the system 1 is advantageously continuous in particular thanks to the stabilization chamber 19.

Furthermore, if many vehicles pass one after the other on the device 1, a very large quantity of fluid can end up in the first manifold 17 causing an increase in the pressure therein: the control device 25 is then configured to open the second evacuation pipe 24 and increase the flow rate of fluid leaving the first manifold 17.

A larger quantity of fluid then passes through the conversion unit 18 temporarily resulting in a greater production of electrical energy until the pressure in the first manifold 17 drops back below the second reference pressure and the device control 25 does not close preventing the fluid from passing through the second evacuation pipe 24.

If, despite everything, the quantity of fluid arriving in the first manifold 17 remains too large and the third reference pressure is reached, then the control device 28 is configured to open the third evacuation pipe 27 and increase the fluid flow leaving the first manifold 17. The fluid then passes directly into the tank 30.

The system 1 thus presented therefore proves to be simple, robust and easy to implement.

In addition, the system 1 is safe thanks to the presence of several fluid evacuation pipes associated with the first collector 17.

In addition, the system 1 allows a regular or even continuous production of electrical energy in particular thanks to the presence of the stabilization chamber 19. The system 1 therefore has a very good efficiency.

In particular, the system 1 thus described can be part of an installation comprising means for exploiting the electrical energy produced by said system 1. Indeed, the installation can be used in numerous applications such as (list not limited) :

- charging at least one storage device (battery, super-capacitor, accumulator, etc.); and or

- supplying public lighting and advantageously, public lighting illuminating the considered artery V; and or - the supply of electrical energy to a general electrical supply network; and or

- the supply of at least one electric terminal for recharging an electric vehicle (car, scooter, bicycle, etc.).

A particular non-limiting example will now be described.

If we place ourselves in a case where seven different vehicles travel on the considered artery V in five minutes, figure 3a illustrates the train of square waves generated by the front wheels of the vehicles and figure 3b the train of waves squares generated by the rear wheels of vehicles. The front and rear wheel wave trains are similar in amplitude, with the rear wheel wave train obviously lagging behind the front wheel wave train. FIG. 3c represents the overall wave train generated by the passage of vehicles assuming that the overall wave train is equal to the sum of the wave trains of the front and rear wheels. The overall wave train is delayed relative to the front and rear wheel wave trains due to the fact that the front and rear wheels do not hit the tubes at the same time.

FIG. 4 then symbolizes the way in which the system operates downstream of the first collector when these different vehicles pass.

Curve 40 thus shows that with the passage of vehicles, the first collector 17 can gradually supply the stabilization chamber 19 with fluid.

If the second reference pressure has been reached, the control device 25 opens to supply the conversion unit 18 directly via the first collector 17 without passing through the stabilization chamber 19. This takes place at approximately one minute in the example described and is symbolized by the curve 41 in FIG. 4.

It can thus be seen that in one minute, the second reference pressure is reached, which is very fast. This means that the first collector 17 and the stabilization chamber 19 are sufficiently full to be able to supply the conversion device 18 nominally.

If the pressure continues to increase in the first collector 17 and the third reference pressure is reached, the control device 28 also opens to directly fill the reservoir 30 and ensure good circulation of the fluid in the circuit. This takes place at about two minutes in the example described and is symbolized by curve 42 in Figure 4.

Of course, the invention is not limited to the embodiment described and variant embodiments can be added thereto without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the claims.

In particular, the system may include a greater number of devices than has been described. It will thus be possible to have a device associated with two different arteries of the land traffic lane or even with each artery of the land traffic lane.

In particular, the device may be different from what has been indicated and for example include a different number of assemblies and/or modules and/or units. Within the same unit, if it has several tubes, they may not be connected in series but in parallel. Depending on the device used, the circuit may be freed from the first and/or the second collector.

In this case, it is possible to have evacuation pipes mounted in parallel with the stabilization chamber in order to be able to circumvent said chamber if necessary. It will also be possible to dispense with such a stabilization chamber.

The device may not include a distribution plate.

Although here the tubes protrude from the upper face of the land traffic lane, the tubes may only protrude from one of the layers of said land traffic lane, the rest of the upper layers of said land traffic lane then directly playing the role of a distribution plate. The upper layer(s) may thus be spaced apart in height from the layer from which the tube(s) protrude.

For example, the tubes could be arranged in the land traffic lane so that the wearing course of said lane is above them, the wearing course then playing the role of a distribution plate. The limiters may be arranged differently from what has been described. The limiters can thus be arranged outside the tube and not inside the latter. The limiters may be in one piece with the tube (and not attached to the tube as described here). In the case of an insert, they may also be arranged differently from what has been described. For example, the inserts may extend rectilinearly parallel to the axial direction of the tube (and not orthogonally thereto as described above). For example, the inserts may be arranged so that at least one insert is arranged on one of the lateral sides of the prestressed tube and at least one insert is arranged at the level of the other of the lateral sides of the prestressed tube (ie at level of the rounded portions of the prestressed tube). As a replacement or supplement, the inserts may be arranged so as to form at least two rows of inserts in the tube, each row extending in the general direction of the tube. The inserts can then be arranged so that each insert of the first row is coupled to an insert of the second row. The pairs of inserts can thus be defined to be arranged side by side or one behind the other. The pairs can be arranged in the center of the tube or on the lateral sides of the tube.

The limiters may also have a shape other than that indicated. For example, at least one of the inserts may be shaped so as to have an ellipsoidal, oblong radial section, etc. (at least when it is not loaded) that is not cylindrical as described.

In addition, the insert may be in another material than what has been described. At least one of the inserts may be in a material that is not elastically deformable. At least one of the inserts may be rigid. At least one of the inserts may be made of plastic material or of metal material.

In general, the limiter can take any form and any arrangement making it possible to limit the deformation of the associated tube over a chosen and predefined interval.

The device may not include a limiter.

Although here the control devices are generally pressure-controlled, in addition or as a replacement, said devices may be controlled in flow, in volume, etc.

One, several or all of the control devices may be variable rate devices. One, several or all of the control devices may be all-or-nothing devices.

As already indicated, the system can be used in any other application such as sidewalks, cycle paths, railways, etc. Thus, the device for recovering energy can be arranged in part or in whole in the rails of the traffic section. For example at least one of the tubes of said device can be arranged in a rail so as to be exceeded.

Claims

1. System for generating electrical energy intended to be associated with at least one section of land taxiway, the system comprising at least one recovery device (2) comprising at least one elastically deformable tube (9, 10) arranged in service in the section of said section, the tube being connected to a closed circulation circuit for at least one fluid of the system so that the fluid can also flow inside the tube, the system further comprising a member conversion (18) arranged in the circuit so that the flow of fluid through said member causes the generation of electrical energy by said member.

2. System according to claim 1, wherein the circuit comprises a stabilization chamber (19) arranged between the device (2) and the conversion member (18).

3. System according to claim 2, comprising at least one evacuation pipe (25) making it possible to connect the device (2) and the conversion member (18) without passing through the stabilization chamber.

4. System according to claim 2 or claim 3 comprising at least one evacuation pipe (28) making it possible to connect the device (2) and a zone of the circuit arranged downstream of the conversion member and this without passing by the stabilization chamber (19) or by the conversion member (18).

5. System according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the conversion member (18) is a turbine.

6. System according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the circuit comprises a reservoir (30) arranged in the circuit downstream of the conversion member (18).

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7. Device for recovering a system for generating electrical energy intended to be associated with at least one section of land taxiway, the device (2) comprising at least one elastically deformable tube (9, 10) arranged in service in the section of said section, the tube being connected to a closed circulation circuit for at least one fluid of the system so that the fluid can also flow inside the tube.

8. Device according to claim 7, comprising a first right assembly (3a) comprising at least one tube and a second left assembly (3b) comprising at least one tube.

9. Device according to one of claims 7 or 8, comprising at least two modules (4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b) extending in the extension of one another, each module comprising at least a tube.

10. Device according to claim 9, comprising at least three modules (4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b), the modules all extending in the extension of each other.

11. Device according to one of claims 7 to

10, comprising at least one unit comprising at least two tubes, the two tubes being connected in series.

12. Device according to one of claims 7 to

11, in which the tube is a tube for a peristaltic pump.

13. Device according to one of claims 7 to

12, in which the tube is intended to be arranged in the section in a deformed manner.

14. Device according to one of claims 7 to

13, comprising at least one tube deformation limiter (11).

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15. Device according to claim 14, wherein the limiter is an insert arranged inside the tube.

16. Device according to one of claims 7 to 15, comprising a distribution plate (50) arranged plumb with the tube.

17. Device according to claim 16, in which the distribution plate (50) comprises at least one layer chosen from the following layers: - a layer based on bitumen (51, 53) and/or

- a layer of armatures (52, 54) and/or

- a support layer (55).

18. Device according to one of claims 16 to 17, wherein the support layer comprises at least one row of posts.

19. Installation comprising a system according to one of claims 1 to 6 and means for exploiting the electrical energy produced by said system.