WO2024142003A2 - Cycle-pedestrian path structure - Google Patents

Abstract

A cycle-pedestrian path structure comprising a plurality of supports (2) intended to be placed on the ground and arranged along the direction of development (D) of the cycle- pedestrian path, at least one photovoltaic panel (3), first laminar modules (4) arranged above the photovoltaic panel (3) with an outer face (28) intended to come into contact with pedestrians or vehicles; second laminar modules (5) arranged below the photovoltaic panel (3); isolation means (6). The first laminar modules (4) are made of a transparent or semi-transparent material, the second laminar modules (5) have an outer face (27) suited to be faced towards the supports (2); the insulation means (6) are interposed between the plurality of supports (2) and the outer face (27) of the second laminar modules (5), the isolation means (6) are in contact with the supports (2) and the outer face (27) of the second module (5).

Description

CYCLE-PEDESTRIAN PATH STRUCTURE

DESCRIPTION

Field of application of the invention

[001] The present invention concerns the technical field of light mobility and has as its object a particular cycle-pedestrian path structure.

State of the art

[002] As is well known, the ordinary mobility of a city or an inhabited area is made of the so-called 'heavy' road works whose function is to allow the circulation of vehicles with considerable mass and particularly impactful from the point of view of sustainability (e.g. motor vehicle, trucks, motorbikes, etc.).

[003] However, in recent years, the 'light' mobility sector has been growing strongly, and its development is becoming increasingly important not only in large urban areas, but also in suburban, industrial or rural areas.

[004] The term 'light mobility ' defines all various works or road works reserved mainly for pedestrians and small, highly sustainable vehicles (e.g. bicycles, electric bicycles, scooters, etc.).

[005] It is therefore clear that cycle-pedestrian paths, which are increasingly in use in all urban environments, belong to the category of light mobility roads: the purpose of these works is to provide a safe and sustainable connection between two different points in the same city, or neighbouring urban centres.

[006] In general, cycle-pedestrian paths are built using techniques substantially similar to those in use for heavy mobility roads.

[007] In particular, in order to create a cycle-pedestrian path, it is necessary to prepare the ground with a suitable substrate (e.g. by means of a layer of stabilised gravel, or by means of a small layer of concrete) on top of which all the parts that constitute a path of this type are built on site (placement of curbs, creation of pavements, asphalting of the substrate, signposting, etc.).

[008] As is evident from the practice, the dimensions and encumbrance of a cyclepedestrian path are relatively large, regardless of their actual length.

[009] In fact, it is well known that the construction of light mobility road works, and thus the installation of cycle-pedestrian paths, requires the occupation of large portions of public land that must be exclusively used for this purpose, effectively preventing the same from being subsequently used for other purposes.

[0010] An ever-increasing spread of environmentally sustainable cycle-pedestrian paths is therefore to be recommended; on the other hand, this practice brings with it the disadvantage of having to identify ever-larger areas of public land whose use in the future will be difficult to convert for purposes other than mobility.

[0011] In addition, current techniques for constructing cycle-pedestrian paths have some major drawbacks.

[0012] Firstly, as mentioned above, the creation of these types of public works requires the performance of activities typical of the construction sector (excavation, earthworks, paving, asphalting, etc.) which are rather impactful from a logistical and practical point of view.

[0013] Secondly, the construction time of a cycle-pedestrian path is rather long since each of the above-mentioned activities has a considerable duration.

[0014] Moreover, the execution of the construction activities required for the construction of a cycle-pedestrian path requires a high employment of man and equipment, without which these works could not be realised.

[0015] Therefore, the construction of a cycle-pedestrian path is relatively expensive not only in economic terms, but also from the point of view of the environmental impact.

[0016] Most of the cycle-pedestrian path construed in our days integrate within them a plurality of sub-services, first and foremost the public lighting works arranged along the development of the route.

[0017] As a result, the energy balance of a cycle-pedestrian path is generally negative as such works consume energy (typically electricity) without producing it themselves.

[0018] It is therefore clear that all current light mobility works, including cycle- pedestrian paths, are designed to fulfil a single function (to allow the mobility of pedestrians and vehicles in a highly sustainable manner), while their overall energy balance unfortunately remains negative with no possibility of upgrades or improvements suited to change such status over time.

Presentation of the invention

[0019] The present invention intends to overcome the aforementioned technical drawbacks by providing a particularly efficient and high-performance cycle-pedestrian path.

[0020] In particular, the main purpose of the present invention is to provide a cycle- pedestrian path that has a positive energy balance, i.e. that over time it manages to generate more energy than it consumes during its operation.

[0021] Another purpose of the present invention is to provide a cycle-pedestrian path that makes it possible to autonomously generate electricity intended to power one or more utilities.

[0022] A further purpose of the present invention is to provide a cycle-pedestrian path that is particularly easy to create.

[0023] Another purpose of the present invention is to provide a cycle-pedestrian path that requires particularly simple and fast ground preparation prior to its installation.

[0024] A further purpose of the present invention is to provide a cycle-pedestrian path that does not require particularly complex construction techniques.

[0025] Another purpose of the present invention is to provide a cycle-pedestrian path having a plurality of components that can be easily assembled together to make prefabricated portions to be placed directly on site.

[0026] A further purpose of the present invention is to provide a cycle-pedestrian path that is particularly safe for a user and requires little maintenance over time.

[0027] Still, not the least purpose of the present invention is to provide a cycle-pedestrian path whose installation requires a limited employment of men and equipment.

[0028] These purposes, together with others that will be better clarified below, are achieved by a cycle-pedestrian path of the type in accordance with claim 1.

[0029] Other purposes that will be better described below are achieved by a cyclepedestrian path of the type in accordance with dependent claims.

Brief description of the drawings

[0030] The advantages and features of the present invention will become clear from the following detailed description of some preferred but not limiting configurations of a highly fire-resistant data transmission cable with particular reference to the following drawings:

- Figure 1 comprises a top view of a first configuration of a cycle-pedestrian path structure according to the invention;

- Figure 2 comprises a side view of a further configuration of a cycle-pedestrian path structure according to the invention;

- Figure 3 comprises a side view of a further configuration of a cycle-pedestrian path structure according to the invention;

- Figure 4 is an enlarged view of a first detail of Figure 3; - Figure 5 is a top view of a photovoltaic panel used in the structure of Figure

1-3;

- Figures 6A to 6C are cross-sectional views of different configurations of a cycle-pedestrian path structure’s component according to the invention;

- Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the component of Figures fro, 6A to 6C in operational configuration;

- Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of an additional configuration of cyclepedestrian path structure according to the invention;

- Figure 9 is an enlarged view of a detail from Figure 1 .

Detailed description of the invention

[0031] The present invention has as its object a structure of a cycle-pedestrian path suited to allow the traffic (or passage) of vehicles, pedestrians, pet, and the like for the purpose of providing a connection between a starting point (i.e. , the beginning point of the cycle-pedestrian path) and an end point (i.e., the final point at which the cyclepedestrian path ends).

[0032] In particular, the structure that is the object of the present invention, indicated below by reference number 1 , is arranged to define a path on which small size and highly sustainable vehicles such as, for example, bicycles, electric bicycles, scooters, electric motorbikes, wheelchairs, etc., can transit.

[0033] Moreover, the main use of these structures is to allow the mobility of pedestrians, possibly accompanied by pets, along a safe path connecting two points, respectively starting and ending, comprised in a given geographical area.

[0034] In particular, the structure 1 , which is the object of the present invention, is specifically designed to be installed in urban and extra-urban areas of any kind, whether they belong to residential areas, cities, suburban areas or bordering residential centres, craft and/or industrial areas and other similar places.

[0035] As will be made clear later in the present description, this cycle-pedestrian structure 1 is particularly simple to build and quick to assemble, to the point that the same is easily adaptable to any type of urban and/or non-urban context, as already mentioned above.

[0036] In the most basic embodiment, the cycle-pedestrian path structure 1 comprises: a plurality of supports 2, at least one photovoltaic panel 3, first 4 and second 5 laminar modules, and insulation means 6. [0037] Some configurations of the supports 2 used in the cycle-pedestrian path structure 1 that is the object of this solution are clearly visible in Figure 2, in Figure 3 and in Figures 6A, 6B, 6C and 7.

[0038] As will be better described below, the main function of the supports 2 is to support the components of the structure, and in particular the one or more photovoltaic panels 3. [0039] The term 'component' used in the present context is intended to refer to the elements that contribute to build the structure 1 , some of such components interact directly with the photovoltaic panel 3. For example, such components may be made of laminar modules, insulation means and the like, the features and technical functions of which will be better described below.

[0040] The supports 2 are placed on the ground according to a predefined laying pattern, in particular the spatial distribution of such supports 2 is not random but follows a particular direction of development that coincides with that defined by the cyclepedestrian path.

[0041] Essentially, the laying direction of the supports 2 outlines the development of the cycle-pedestrian path 1 and thus defines the path (or direction) that the latter must follow in order to connect the starting point to the end point.

[0042] The supports 2 represent the load-bearing elements of the cycle-pedestrian path 1 , since the weight of the other elements of the structure 1 , as well as of the vehicles and pedestrians, is discharged to the ground through the supports 2 themselves.

[0043] The supports 2 have a lower surface 7 intended to be placed in contact with the ground. Alternatively, the lower surface 7 of the supports may not be directly in contact with the ground but may be supported by suitable load-bearing elements 8, for example consisting of threaded rods with support nuts or other similar accessories.

[0044] However, the load-bearing elements 8 that eventually bear the supports 2 are firmly anchored to the ground.

[0045] In addition, all supports 2 must also have an upper surface 9 intended to allow the support and the positioning of the other elements of the structure 1 , e.g. the insulation means 6 and the photovoltaic panels 3.

[0046] Preferably, supports 2 may comprise an at least partially flat upper surface 9 on which the other elements of the structure 1 are placed.

[0047] It should be noted that the term "ground", as used in the present description, is intended to define an area of land suitably arranged to allow for the stable and long- lasting laying of a cycle-pedestrian path structure 1 according to the invention.

[0048] For example, the ground on which the supports 2 are located can consist of an area of beaten earth, or a stabilized gravel layer of the type suitable for use as a base for the foundation of building constructions.

[0049] Alternatively, the ground may consist of a concrete or asphalt surface defining a flat surface on which to place the supports 2.

[0050] As can best be seen in the configuration of the structure illustrated in Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3, the supports 2 may consist of curbs 10 generally made of construction material such as, for example, cement, concrete, bricks or other similar material.

[0051] Specifically, cycle-pedestrian path 1 is defined by two or more rows of curbs 10 arranged in a substantially parallel position to each other.

[0052] Each row of curbs 10 develops along the direction D that defines the development of the cycle-pedestrian path 1 ; such curbs 10, therefore, outline a path suited to connect a starting point to an ending point, forming a path extending along a predetermined trajectory consisting, for example, of a set of straights, curves, subways, overpasses, etc.

[0053] As can best be seen in Figure 3, the curbs 10 may have a substantially parallelepiped cross-sectional shape comprising a substantially flat lower surface 7 intended to come into contact with the ground, and an upper surface 9 intended to support the other components of the structure, such as, for example, the insulation means 6 and the photovoltaic panels 3.

[0054] Conveniently, the upper surface 9 of the curbs 10 may have at least one flat portion, although in the configuration of the curbs 10 shown in the Figures the entire upper surface 9 is flat and substantially parallel to the lower surface 7.

[0055] In particular, the curb 10 may develop in height along a vertical direction V, in such a way that, upon its placement on the ground, the lower surface 7 and the upper surface 9 of the curb 10 are arranged horizontally.

[0056] Each support 2 may have dimensions such that to keep the upper surface 9 at a predetermined height h above the ground.

[0057] More specifically, the dimensions of the curbs 10 used to create the pair of parallel rows defining the development D of the cycle- pedestrian path 1 may be chosen so as to keep all the upper surfaces 9 of the curbs 10 at the same level so as to allow the positioning of the panels 3 (supported by the upper surface 9) in a substantially horizontal position.

[0058] In other words, the heights h above the ground of the various upper surfaces 9 of the curbs 10 may be different, but they lie substantially on the same horizontal plane so as to allow for a flat laying of the panels 3 (and, with them, of the other components of the structure 1).

[0059] The overall dimensions of the curbs 10 (width w, height h, length I) used to build the cycle-pedestrian path structure 1 may, therefore, be the same or different from each other; the dimensional choice of the curbs 10 is based according to what has been described above, i.e. the fact that the upper surface 9 of the curbs 10 is placed at the same level with respect to the ground so as to allow the positioning of the photovoltaic panels 3 in a substantially horizontal position.

[0060] It should be recall, in fact, that the photovoltaic panels 3 as well as all the other components of the structure 1 are supported by the two rows of curbs 10 that develop along the development D of the cycle-pedestrian path 1 .

[0061] The use of curbs 10 with differentiated dimensions makes it possible to keep the photovoltaic panels 3 in a horizontal position even when the ground has unevenness, depressions or pothole.

[0062] In an alternative configuration of the invention, better illustrated in Figure 1 and Figure 5, the supports 2 may consist of one or more feet 11 (a top view of such feet is shown in these figures).

[0063] Also in this case, the feet 11 are distributed along the direction of development D of the cycle-pedestrian path 1 so as to allow the support of the photovoltaic panels 3 along the same direction D.

[0064] Each foot 11 may comprise a lower surface 7 intended to be placed on the ground and a flat upper surface 9 intended to support the photovoltaic panel 3.

[0065] Conveniently, the use of mixed supports 2 can be envisaged, i.e. supports partly consisting of curbs 10 and partly consisting of feet 11 .

[0066] For example, the curbs 10 may define two rows of supports 2 intended to support the photovoltaic panel 3 and the other components of the structure 1 at their lateral ends, while one or more of the feet 11 may be used to provide support for the photovoltaic panel 3 or the other components of the structure 1 at central regions of the photovoltaic panel 3. [0067] Conveniently, the same foot 11 may be intended to support two or more photovoltaic panels 3 (and, in addition to photovoltaic panel 3, it may also be suited to support several components of the structure).

[0068] For example, the foot 11 could be configured to support two photovoltaic panels 3 and all other components associated therewith.

[0069] In this case, a single photovoltaic panel 3 (or component) may be supported by a fraction of the upper surface 9 of foot 11 equal to approximately half of the total extension of the same surface 9.

[0070] Alternatively, the same foot 11 can be configured to support three or four photovoltaic panels 3 and all other components associated therewith.

[0071] In this case, each photovoltaic panel 3/component may be supported by a fraction of the upper surface 9 of foot 11 equal to approximately one-third or to one-quarter of the total extension of the same surface 11.

[0072] The positioning of a plurality of panels 3 at the same upper surface 9 of a foot 11 results in the undoubted advantage of minimizing the total number of feet 11 used in the structure 1. Furthermore, this solution still ensures a stable and secure positioning of the photovoltaic panels 3 and all other components of the structure.

[0073] In the configuration of the cycle-pedestrian path structure 1 illustrated in Figure 6A, Figure 6B and Figure 6C, it is illustrated a cycle-pedestrian path structure 1 with supports 2 defined by one or more elongated metal profiles 12.

[0074] The profiles 12 may have a predetermined cross-sectional shape so as to define both a lower surface 13, intended to be placed on the ground, and an upper surface 14 whose purpose is to support one or more photovoltaic panels 3 and the related other components of the structure 1 .

[0075] Also in this case, the upper surface 14 of the profile 12 may have one or more partially flat portions 15 (or one or more sections).

[0076] Similarly, the lower surface 13 of the profile 12 may consist of one or more portions 16 (or one or more sections of the profile) substantially flat and parallel to the upper surface 14.

[0077] In particular, when the profile 12 is installed in the structure 1 and the lower surface 13 is placed on the ground and the latter is horizontal, both surfaces 13, 14 may also be arranged in a substantially horizontal position.

[0078] In the case of the profile 12 illustrated in Figure 6A, the upper surface 14 is shaped to define a step shape consisting of a pair of substantially parallel sections 15 of the profile (referred to herein as longitudinal by convention), reciprocally joined by a substantially orthogonal profile section 17 (referred to herein as transverse by convention).

[0079] The longitudinal sections 15,15' of said pair have a differentiated height h1,h2 above the ground and the section 15' which is at the lower height h2 will be used to support the photovoltaic panel.

[0080] The lower surface 13 of the metal profile 12 is also defined by a pair of longitudinal sections 16, 16' obtained by bending outwards two respective end portions of the profile itself 12.

[0081] The profile 12 illustrated in Figure 6C, has an upper surface 14 quite similar to that described for the profile 12 illustrated in Figure 6A, i.e. such surface 14 is outlined by a step shape defined by two longitudinal profile sections 15,15' joined by a section of the transverse profile 17. The section 15' of the pair which is at a height h2 lower with respect to the ground is intended to support the photovoltaic panel 3 and all the components associated thereto.

[0082] Also in this case, the lower surface 13 is defined by a pair of longitudinal sections 16,16' obtained by bending respective end portions of the profile 12 itself; in this case, however, one of the two portions 16 is bent inwards so as to form a right angle a with the transverse end wall 18 of the profile 12.

[0083] In correspondence of the section 16.16' of the lower surface 13 it is possible to apply a weld seam (not visible in the Figures), which can be either continuous or discontinuous, or formed by welding points distributed along the extension of the profile itself.

[0084] The function of the weld seam is to strengthen the folded section of the profile in order to increase the overall mechanical rigidity of the latter.

[0085] The metal profile 12 illustrated in Figure 6B has a lower surface 13 defined by a pair of longitudinal sections 16,16' obtained as a result of the outwards bending of respective end portions of the profile 12 itself.

[0086] Said profile 12, however, is shaped in such a way as to define an upper surface 14 specular to a plane of symmetry TT passing through the central axis of the profile 12 itself.

[0087] In this case, therefore, the upper surface 14 is defined by three longitudinal sections 15: two of these sections 15' are positioned at the same height h2 with respect to the ground, while the third 15 section is positioned at a greater height hi.

[0088] Two transverse profile sections 17 are also provided, suited to join the ends of section 15' at the lower level with the ends of section 15 at the upper level.

[0089] In this case, the photovoltaic panel 3 is supported in correspondence of the longitudinal sections positioned at the lower level 15'.

[0090] Conveniently, the cycle-pedestrian path structure 1 may comprise regulation means 19 associated with supports 2.

[0091] More specifically, the regulation means 19 can be associated with the metal profiles 12.

[0092] These regulation means 19 may be configured to promote the selective regulation of the height hi and the position that the upper surface 14 of the profiles 12 assumes with respect to the ground.

[0093] In particular, the regulation means 19 makes it possible to raise/lower the upper surface 14 of the profile 12 (intended to support the photovoltaic panel 3 and the other components of the structure 1 associated thereto) so as to keep it arranged on a substantially horizontal plane, even when the ground has uneven or inclined.

[0094] In the configuration of the structure illustrated in Figure 7, the regulation means 19 comprise one or more holes obtained on the profile in correspondence of the folded portion 16' defining the lower surface 13.

[0095] A threaded stud 20 permanently embedded in the ground may be inserted into such holes.

[0096] It is provided a counter-threaded nut 21 intended to be screwed onto the stud 20; such nut 21 is placed below the lower surface 13 of profile 12 and has an upper edge 22 intended to come into contact with the latter.

[0097] In this way, by screwing/unscrewing the nut 21 , it will be possible to vary the position of the profile 12 with respect to the ground and the height h2 above the ground of the upper surface 14. By doing so, it will be possible to align the upper surface 14 of the profile 12 along a desired plane, for example to keep it in a substantially horizontal position.

[0098] When the flat upper surface 14 lies on the desired plane (e.g. a horizontal plane), the position of the profile 12 can be firmly locked by tightening a counter nut 23 screwed onto the stud 20 and having a respective edge 24 intended to contact the folded portion 16' of the profile 12.

[0099] As mentioned above, the cycle-pedestrian path structure 1 subject of the present invention comprises at least one photovoltaic panel 3 and, more commonly, a plurality of photovoltaic panels 3.

[00100] Preferably, each photovoltaic panel 3 can be chosen to generate a maximum peak power (peak Watts) of between 250Wp and 400Wp, preferably close to 320Wp.

[00101] In order to achieve this power, it is necessary to provide a photovoltaic panel 3 consisting of a predetermined number of elementary cells 25, each of which may have a substantially square shape with a side a between 100mm and 200mm, and typically close to 150mm.

[00102] Using this type of elementary cells 25, it is possible to define a photovoltaic panel 3 consisting of N-rows and M-columns.

[00103] In the version of photovoltaic panel 3 shown in Figure 5, it is provided the use of sixty elementary cells 25 having dimensions close to 160mm.

[00104] In this case, a single photovoltaic panel 3 consists of N=10 rows and M=6 columns conveniently connected to each other.

[00105] The elementary cells 25 are also electrically connected in such a way as to provide an open-circuit voltage of approximately 40V DC, and a voltage at maximum power of approximately 34V DC; in addition, a photovoltaic panel 3 thus constituted may provide a short-circuit current close to 10A and a current at maximum power of 9.5A.

[00106] Conveniently, the cycle-pedestrian path structure 1 may provide for the use of a plurality of photovoltaic panels 3 equal to each other, i.e. panels 3 having the same dimensions and electrical features (power, voltage, current).

[00107] Alternatively, this structure 1 may provide for the use of one or more panels 3 differing from each other in dimension and/or electrical features.

[00108] The cycle-pedestrian path structure 1 further comprises first laminar modules 4 suited to cover one or more photovoltaic panels 3. Each first laminar module 4, therefore, is arranged above the panel 3.

[00109] In addition, the structure 1 also comprises second laminar modules 5 arranged below each photovoltaic panel 3 in such a way as to provide support for the panels themselves.

[00110] Conveniently, each photovoltaic panel 3 is interposed between a single first laminar module 4 (arranged above) and a second laminar module 5 (arranged below). [00111] In other words, these three elements (photovoltaic panel 3, the first 4 and second 5 modules) form a unitary assembly 26 in which the photovoltaic panel 3 is arranged as a sandwich between the first 4 and second 5 laminar modules.

[00112] As will be more evident from the continuation of the present description, unitary assembly 26 composed of the panel 3 and the laminar modules 4,5 is intended to be supported by supports 2.

[00113] In particular, this unitary assembly 26 is borne by the supports 2 in such a way that the outer face 27 of the second module 5 faces downwards, i.e. oriented towards the upper surface 9 of the supports 2.

[00114] In doing so, the outer face 28 of the first module 4 will instead face upwards and will not interact with supports 2 or other components of structure 1.

[00115] The outer face 28 of the first module 4 (facing upwards) will be intended to come into contact with (and support) the wheels of vehicles (bicycles, electric bicycles, wheelchairs, etc.) travelling along the cycle-pedestrian path 1 , or with the pedestrians ‘feet or the paws of the pet passing along such path.

[00116] Conveniently, the width of the assembly corresponds to the width b associated with the second module 5. Furthermore, the supports are arranged at a distance g smaller than the width b of the second module 5 so as to allow the support of the unitary assembly 26.

[00117] Such a distance g is also observed when the supports 2 consist of curbs 10 and/or feet 11.

[00118] Even in the case where the supports 2 consist of a pair of profiles 12 arranged side-by-side, these latter are spaced by a distance k substantially equal to the width b of the second module 5 so as to permit the positioning of the assembly 26.

[00119] The function of the first 4 of the second 5 modules is to define an assembly which has a high structural rigidity, so as to support the load generated by vehicles/pedestrians/etc. passing along the path without undermining the structural and/or functional integrity of the photovoltaic panel enclosed between such modules.

[00120] As will be better described later in the present description, the first module 4 will be made of a transparent or semi-transparent material to allow the passage of the sunlight through its thickness s so as to allow them to interact with the photovoltaic panel 3 placed in the middle.

[00121] Conveniently, the first module 4 can be made of glassy material. [00122] The second module 5, positioned below the photovoltaic panel 3, can be made of either a transparent or semi-transparent material, or of an opaque or light-reflecting material.

[00123] However, according to a preferred configuration of the structure described herein, the first 4 and the second 5 modules may both be made of glassy material, and in particular may consist of tempered and/or toughened glass.

[00124] The dimensions of the first 4 and second 5 module may be substantially equal to each other and larger than the dimensions of the photovoltaic panel enclosed between them.

[00125] For example, the first 4 and second 5 modules may have a width b between 800 mm and 1400 mm and a length c between 1200 mm and 2400 mm.

[00126] Typically, the first and second panels may have a width b of approximately 1050mm and a length c of approximately 1700mm.

[00127] The type of glass and the treatments carried out on the material (tempering and hardening) may be such as to provide the first 4 and second 5 modules with the following mechanical characteristics:

Uniformly distributed vertical load (qk): between 3 kN/m2 and 8kN/m2;

Concentrated vertical loads with a footprint of 50mmx50mm (Qk): between 0.8kN and 1.8 kN.

[00128] Conveniently, the first 4 and second 5 laminar modules may be chosen in such a way to have the same thicknesses or differentiated thicknesses s, s'.

[00129] In the configuration of the structure illustrated in the Figures, the first module 4 has a thickness s different with respect to the thickness s' of the second module 5. In particular, the thickness s of the first module 4 may be smaller than the thickness s' of the second module 5.

[00130] For example, considering the first 4 and the second 5 module both made of glassy material, the thickness s of the first module 4 may be between 2 mm and 5 mm, typically close to 4 mm; while the thickness s' of the second module 5 may be substantially double that associated with the first module 4, i.e. between 4 mm and 10 mm and typically close to 8 mm.

[00131] The choice of the thicknesses s, s' of the laminar modules 4,5 made of glassy material is not accidental, as it was found experimentally that the thickness s of the first module 4 can be substantially half of that of the second module 5 without structural weakening (e.g. cracks or breakage of the first module itself) during the passage of vehicles and/or trampling of pedestrians on the outer face of this module.

[00132] This will make it possible to lighten the unitary assembly 26 consisting of the first module 4, the photovoltaic panel 3 and the second module 5.

[00133] In addition, the greatest thickness will have to be associated with the second module 5 (facing towards the supports 2), since this component of the structure will have to support, in addition to its own weight, the weight of the first module, the photovoltaic panels 3 and the vehicles/pedestrians passing or treading on the cycle-pedestrian path structure 1.

[00134] Preferably, when the first 4 and second 5 modules are made of glassy material, they can be made of sheets 29 having predetermined thickness and dimensions, e.g. of the type described above.

[00135] The sheets 29 defining the first 4 and second 5 modules may present a substantially square or rectangular plan form, as visible in Figure 1. In this case, each sheet 29 presents an elongated shape delimited by respective straight and substantially parallel side edges.

[00136] In particular, in the preferred configuration of structure 1 illustrated in the Figures, the first 4 and second 5 modules present a rectangular shape delimited by two pairs of straight and parallel lateral edges: the pair of edges 30 defining the length c of the module presents a greater dimension than the pair of edges 31 defining the width b. [00137] The second 5 modules may be held by supports 2 at the longest straight side edge 30, i.e. at the edge defining length c. This configuration is clearly visible in Figure 2.

[00138] Therefore, the straight edge 31 defining the width b will be substantially free and overhanging the supports 2; in fact, in general, the edge 31 defining the width b may not be borne by the supports 2 (except in correspondence of its ends), and may, therefore, be raised from the ground at the height h where the upper surface 9 of the support 2 is located.

[00139] However, as better illustrated in Figure 5, when the structure 1 provides for the use of one or more feet 11 the latter may support one or more second modules 5 at the shortest straight edge 31 , i.e. the edge defining the width c and overhanging with respect of the supports 2.

[00140] The structure 1 may also provide for no-slip means 32 associated with the first modules 4.

[00141] In particular, a peculiar embodiment of the no-slip means 32 used in the cyclepedestrian path structure 1 according to the invention can be seen in Figure 9.

[00142] In this case, the no-slip means 32 comprise a coating 33 applied on the outer face of the first module; the latter, as described above, is intended to come into contact with the wheels of a vehicle or to be stepped on by pedestrians and/or pets.

[00143] The coating 33 applied to the outer face 28 of the first module 4 shall be made of a material suited to generate high friction when it comes into contact with the wheels of the vehicle or with the footwear or limbs of a pedestrian or pet.

[00144] Thus, the first module 4 has a significantly higher overall coefficient of friction than that associated with the sole base material from which it is made.

[00145] For example, when the first module 4 is made of glassy material, the intrinsic coefficient of friction of such component is relatively low and, for this reason, a pedestrian or vehicle runs the risk of sliding on the outer face 28 of module 4.

[00146] The presence of the coating 33 increases the adhesion established between vehicles and pedestrians to the outer face 28 of the first module 4 with the consequent benefit of making the structure 1 safer for transit.

[00147] As better illustrated in Figure 9, the no-slip means 32 may comprise a coating 33 distributed on the outer face 28 of the first module 4 in such a way as to define a dot pattern defined by coating points 33 put on the face 28 itself according to a predetermined geometry.

[00148] In general, such points are distributed over the entire extension of the outer face 28 of the first module 4 and may be arranged along respective rows and columns spaced by a predetermined pitch p.

[00149] The coating points 33 forming a respective row or column may also be spaced with a constant or variable pitch p' which may be equal or different to the pitch p with which the rows or columns are spaced.

[00150] In addition, the material used to make the coating 33 can be chosen from the group containing transparent or semi-transparent materials.

[00151] The structure also comprises the use of insulation means 6 intended to be interposed between the plurality of supports 2 and the second laminar modules 5 borne by such supports.

[00152] Conveniently, the function of the insulation means 6 is to promote i) the insulation from external agents such as, for example, water, condensation, dust and the like and ii) electrical insulation of one or more components of the structure 1 from the photovoltaic panels 3.

[00153] Preferably, the insulation means 6 may comprise a strip of insulating material

34 (or laminar layer) having a constant thickness d, this strip 34 has a first outer surface

35 intended to contact the upper surface 9 of the support 2, and a second outer surface

36 intended to contact the outer face 27 of the second module 5 facing the supports 2. [00154] In other words, the strip of insulating material 34 is first laid on the upper surface 9 of the support 2 and, in a subsequent step, the assembly 26 consisting of the first module 4, the second module 5 and the photovoltaic panel 3 is laid on such strip 34.

[00155] This configuration is well illustrated in Figure 4.

[00156] For this reason, the support 2 does not directly support either the photovoltaic panel 3 or the second module 5; on the upper surface 9 of the support 2 the insulation means 6 (in the present case defined by an insulating strip 34) are distributed and above such means 6 is positioned the assembly 26 comprising the photovoltaic panel 3.

[00157] The insulating material strip 34 (or laminar layer of insulating material) may be made of polymeric material.

[00158] In particular, the insulating strip 34 may be made of a polymeric material comprising at least one ethylene monomer, one propylene monomer and one diene monomer.

[00159] For example, insulation means 6 may consist of a laminar layer of EPDM.

[00160] In addition, insulation means 6 may have a predetermined hardness, typically between 50 Shore A and 90 Shore A.

[00161] The hardness associated with the insulation means 6 may be chosen so as to enable the latter to support the weight obtained from the sum of the weight associated with the assembly consisting of the modules 4,5 and the photovoltaic panel 3 and the weight associated with the vehicles/pedestrians passing on the outer face 28 of the first module 4.

[00162] Conveniently, the width of the strip of material 34 constituting the insulation means 6 may be greater than or equal to 25 mm.

[00163] The choice of this width is important in order to define the area of the strip which, overall comes into contact with the support 2 and the second module 5: it has been experimentally proven that a width of less than the value 25 mm defines a contact area which is too narrow and not sufficient to promote the insulation of the structure 1 from atmospheric agents over time.

[00164] Conveniently, in the cycle-pedestrian path structure 1 subject-matter of the present invention, the particular configuration of the isolation means 6 makes it possible to carry out further functions in addition to that, already described, of ensuring the insulation of the elements of the structure from atmospheric agents or electrical quantities associated with the photovoltaic panels.

[00165] In particular, the polymeric material from which the insulation means 6 are made is at least partially yielding, and this aspect, combined with its intrinsic characteristic of possessing a high coefficient of friction, makes it possible to obtain some obvious advantages when the structure is assembled, namely: stabilizing the position of the assembly composed of modules 4, 5 and the photovoltaic panel 3: the relatively high weight of the assembly and the high coefficient of friction of the insulation means 6 allow the position of the assembly 26 itself in relation to the supports 2 to be kept fixed over time; avoids the establishment of direct contact between the outer face 27 of the second module 5 facing the support 2 and the upper surface 9 of the latter: their contact would result in the interaction of two hard surfaces which, over time, could generate wear, hairline crack or cracks in the second module 5 when the latter is made of glassy material; the relative yielding of the isolation means 6 makes it possible to "dampen" the vertical stresses to which the assembly 26 consisting of the first module 4, the second module 5 and the photovoltaic panel 3 is subjected; essentially, the insulation means 6 make it possible to dampen the vertical load directed downwards (i.e. towards the ground) to which the unitary assembly 26 is subjected when a vehicle and/or a pedestrian transit on it.

[00166] In the example of cycle-pedestrian path 1 shown in Figure 3 and Figure 4, a sheet metal covering 37 is provided suited to cover at least partially the supports 2 (in the specific case defined by a series of curbs 10.

[00167] In particular, the sheet metal covering 37 is shaped so as to include an anchoring portion 38 intended to allow it to be fixed at the flat upper surface 9 of the support (i.e. the curb 10).

[00168] Conveniently, the structure may also include means 39 suited to fill the space formed between the assembly 26 consisting of the modules 4, 5 and the photovoltaic panel 3 and the upper surface 9 of the support 2.

[00169] The filling means 39 are best illustrated in Figure 4, such means are specifically comprising a polymeric or silicone resin suited to fill the interspace that is formed between the anchoring portion 38 of the sheet metal covering 37 and the assembly 26. [00170] In this way, it is possible to prevent the collection of liquids or their stagnation (e.g. water, condensation, etc.) at the interspace; such liquids can, in fact, be potentially dangerous for the connections and electrical circuitry associated with photovoltaic panel 3 (not shown in the Figures).

[00171] As extensively described above, the assembly 26 is supported by the supports 2 in such a way that the photovoltaic panel 3 faces upwards so as to allow it to be irradiated by the sunlight during the daytime.

[00172] In this way, the series of photovoltaic panels 3 distributed along the path will be able to generate, during daylight hours, a predetermined amount of electricity, the amount of which will vary depending on the number and size of panels 3, the length of the path, etc.

[00173] For example, using a series of photovoltaic panels 3 having the dimensions mentioned above and installed in a structure 1 having a length of 100 m, it is possible to generate an electrical output of between 17.000 kWh/year and 18.000 kWh/year.

[00174] Conveniently, the cycle-pedestrian structure 1 object of the present invention may comprise means for the distribution and/or storage of the electrical energy generated by the photovoltaic panels 3 interposed between the modules 4, 5.

[00175] These means, which are not illustrated in the Figures, may comprise a hardware part consisting of all the wired connections associated with the various photovoltaic panels 3, any switchboards or distribution stations, inverters, etc.; and a software part suited to manage the use and distribution of the electrical energy generated by the panels 3 or its input into an external distribution network.

[00176] For example, the distribution and/or storage means could be configured to use the electricity generated by the photovoltaic panels on site 3 (e.g. powering public lighting and/or road signs distributed along the cycle-pedestrian path 1.

[00177] Alternatively, such means of distribution and/or storage may provide for electrical energy storage systems (e.g. battery packs or similar) suited to allow the use of such energy over time. [00178] Again, the distribution and/or storage means may involve feeding the electricity generated by the photovoltaic panels 3 into a distribution network associated with one or more utilities (e.g. scattered around the cycle/pedestrian path).

[00179] The following is a brief description of the main operational steps for the realization of a cycle-pedestrian path 1 , which, by way of example, is of the type according to the configuration in Figure 1 .

[00180] Of course, these considerations also apply to cycle paths that fall within the scope of protection of the invention but use equivalent components (e.g. profiles, feet, etc.).

[00181] First of all, it is necessary prepare the soil or ground on which path 1 is to be installed; in particular, such soil must have a flat supporting surface having a consistency such as to support the weight of the entire structure.

[00182] Then proceed with the laying of support 2, the lower surface 7 of support 2 will be placed in contact with the ground in order to establish a stable position. If necessary, it will also be possible to anchor support 2 to the ground.

[00183] In the configuration of the structure shown in Figure 1 , two mutually parallel rows of curbs 10 are created during the laying step of the supports 2; each row is also formed by a plurality of curbs 10 arranged side by side.

[00184] The arrangement of the curbs 10 follows the direction D chosen for the structure 1 in order to connect the starting point with the end point.

[00185] When the laying of the supports is at least completed, insulating means 6, for example consisting of a laminar strip of insulating material 34, are placed on the flat upper surface 9 of these supports 2.

[00186] The insulation means 6 (i.e. the strip 34) are distributed on the flat upper surface 9 of the supports 2 in a continuous manner for a length equal to the length affected by the laying of the assemblies 26 comprising the photovoltaic panel 3.

[00187] Specifically for the path in Figure 1 , the isolation means 6 are distributed on the flat upper surface 9 of the supports 2 defining both rows.

[00188] It is then possible to install the assemblies 26 formed by the photovoltaic panel 3 interposed between the laminar modules 4, 5.

[00189] The preparation of the assemblies 26 can be carried out earlier than the laying of supports 2; for example, assemblies 26 can be assembled during preparation and subsequently transported in loco as semi-finished products. [00190] The assemblies 26 are placed on the supports 2 with a predefined installation direction: the first module 4 (comprising an no-slip treatment) is positioned upwards so that the photovoltaic panel 3 sandwiched between modules 4, 5 can be exposed to the sun.

[00191] In this way, the second module 5 is intended to come into contact with the insulation means 6 previously distributed on the flat upper surface 9 of the supports 2.

[00192] In the case where the second module has a substantially rectangular shape delimited by pairs of parallel edges 30, 31, such modules come into contact with the insulation means 6 at a surface portion close to such edges (e.g. in the configuration of Figure 4, the second module 5 leans against the insulation means 6 distributed on the supports 2 at a surface portion close to the edges 30 having a greater length.

[00193] It should be reiterated that supports 2 are intended to support the photovoltaic panel 3 without coming into direct contact with it; in practice, the supports 2 bear the assemblies 26 through the interposition of insulation means 6.

[00194] Following the laying of the assemblies 26, it will then be possible to fill any interspaces with the filling means 39 and to proceed with the wiring of all the photovoltaic panels 3 and the circuitry necessary to promote the withdrawal and/or distribution and/or storage of the electrical energy generated by all the panels 3 previously installed in the structure 1.

[00195] The present invention can be realized in other variants all falling within the scope of the inventive features claimed and described; these technical features can be replaced by different technically equivalent elements and the materials used; the shapes and dimensions of the invention can be any as long as they are compatible with its use.

[00196] The numbers and reference marks inserted in the claims and description are only intended to increase the clarity of the text and must not be considered as limiting the technical interpretation of the objects or processes identified by them.

Claims

1. A cycle-pedestrian path structure (1) for pedestrian and vehicles transit, said structure extending along a predetermined direction (D), comprising:

- a plurality of supports (2) suited to be placed on the ground, the supports

(2) of said plurality being arranged along the direction of development (D) of the cyclepedestrian path;

- at least one photovoltaic panel (3);

- first laminar modules (4) placed above said at least one photovoltaic panel

(3), said first modules (4) having an outer face (28) intended to come into contact with pedestrians or vehicles;

- second laminar modules (5) arranged below said at least one photovoltaic panel (3) to provide support thereto;

- insulation means (6); wherein said first laminar modules (4) are made of transparent or semitransparent material; wherein said second laminar modules (5) have an outer face (27) suited to facing towards said plurality of supports (2); wherein said insulation means (6) are interposed between said plurality of supports (2) and said outer face (27) of the second laminar modules (5), said insulation means (6) being in contact with the supports (2) of said plurality and with the outer face (27) of said second module (5).

2. Structure according to claim 1 , characterized in that each support (2) of said plurality has a lower surface (7, 13) intended to be placed in contact with the ground, and an upper surface (9, 14) having at least one flat portion (15, 15').

3. Structure according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that said first modules (4) and said second modules (5) have a polygonal shape delimited by at least two pairs of straight lateral edges (30, 31), the edges (30) of at least one respective pair being mutually parallel.

4. Structure according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that said insulation means (6) are housed on said supports (2) at said flat portion (15, 15') of said upper surface (9, 14).

5. Structure according to one or more of claims from 2 to 4, characterized in that said plurality of supports (2) comprises curbs (10) arranged along two or more substantially parallel rows, each pair of rows being spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance (g) that is smaller than the width (b) of said second modules (5), each curb (10) of the row being provided with an upper surface (9) having a flat portion (15, 15') suited to support said insulation means (6) and said second modules (5) in proximity of a respective edge (30) defining the pair of parallel edges.

6. Structure according to one or more of the claims from 2 to 5, characterized in that said plurality of supports (2) comprises at least one feet (11) arranged along the direction of development (D) of the cycle-pedestrian path, each feet (11) comprising a substantially flat upper surface (9) suited to support said insulation means (6) and/or to come into contact with the outer face (27) of said second modules (5).

7. Structure according to one or more of the claims from 2 to 6, characterized in that said plurality of supports (2) comprises one or more elongated metal profiles (12), each elongated metal profile (12) having a predetermined cross-sectional shape suited to define an upper surface (14) at least partially flat to house said insulation means (6).

8. Structure according to claim 7, characterized in that it comprises at least one pair of metal profiles (12) having a flat upper surface (14) spaced apart by a predetermined distance (k) substantially equal to the width of (b) of said second modules, said flat upper surface (14) of said pair of profiles (12) being suitable to house said insulation means (6).

9. Structure according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that it comprises means (19) for regulating the position of the metal profiles (12) with respect to the ground, said regulation means (19) being suited for lifting/lowering said flat upper surface (14) of said profiles (12) so as to maintain it substantially parallel to a horizontal plane.

10. Structure according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that said insulation means (6) comprise a laminar strip (34) made of polymeric material, said strip having a first outer surface (35) suited to come into contact with the upper surface (9, 14) of said plurality of supports (2), and a second outer surface (36) suited to come into contact with the face (27) of said second laminar modules (5) facing towards said plurality of supports (2).

11. Structure according to claim 10, characterized in that said laminar strip (34) is made from a polymeric material comprising at least one ethylene monomer, one propylene monomer and one diene monomer.

12. Structure according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises no-slip means (32) associated with said first modules (4).

13. Structure according to claim 12, characterized in that said no-slip means (32) comprise a coating (33) applied to the outer face (28) of the first modules (4) suited to come into contact with pedestrians and vehicles.

14. Structure according to claim 13, characterized in that said coating (33) is punctiform and substantially uniformly distributed on said outer face (28) of said first modules (4).

15. Structure according to claim 14, characterized in that said substantially punctiform coating (33) is made of a substantially transparent or semi-transparent polymeric material.