Saipem has filed a patent for a floating solar power plant that includes a floating carrier module with photovoltaic modules for power generation. The floating structure of the plant has buoyancy elements and a flexible means that allows it to change shape when exposed to external forces. The structure is made up of interlinked rigid elements connected by flexible joints to form a chain enclosing a center area. GlobalData’s report on Saipem gives a 360-degree view of the company including its patenting strategy. Buy the report here.
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According to GlobalData’s company profile on Saipem, H2 powered aircraft propulsion was a key innovation area identified from patents. Saipem's grant share as of September 2023 was 67%. Grant share is based on the ratio of number of grants to total number of patents.
Floating solar power plant with flexible structure and interlinked elements
A recently filed patent (Publication Number: US20230257080A1) describes a floating solar power plant that utilizes a unique floating carrier module design. The floating carrier module consists of photovoltaic modules for electricity generation and a floating structure with buoyancy elements that extend into the water. The floating structure is made up of interlinked rigid elements connected by flexible joints, allowing it to change shape when exposed to external forces. This design encloses a center area, providing stability and support for the photovoltaic modules.
The patent also mentions a carrying structure that holds the photovoltaic modules and a flexible connection assembly that connects the carrying structure to the floating structure. Additionally, the floating solar power plant can include multiple interconnected floating carrier modules using flexible module links. Resilient elongated members, such as fiber ropes, steel wires, bars, or rods, extend across the center area between opposite rigid elements, further enhancing the structural integrity of the floating solar power plant.
The flexible connection assembly of the floating solar power plant comprises three connections, at least two of which have a first part and a second part. These parts are configured to move relative to each other, allowing for flexibility and adaptability in different conditions. The carrying structure can include a walkway located below some of the photovoltaic modules or a walkway at the perimeter that can pivot between a horizontal orientation for personnel support and a non-horizontal orientation that leaves the water surface uncovered.
The patent also describes a method for installing the floating solar power plant on a sea surface. The method involves connecting carrier modules into rows using flexible module links, moving the rows towards each other, and connecting adjacent modules to form connected and parallel rows. Additional rows can be connected to the previously connected rows to expand the power plant.
Overall, this patent presents a unique design for a floating solar power plant that offers flexibility, stability, and adaptability. The use of interlinked rigid elements, flexible joints, and resilient elongated members ensures the structural integrity of the floating structure, while the flexible connection assembly and walkway design enhance functionality and ease of installation.
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