WO2008145887A2 - Snow coverage installation and housing for such an installation - Google Patents

Snow coverage installation and housing for such an installation Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2008145887A2
WO2008145887A2 PCT/FR2008/050656 FR2008050656W WO2008145887A2 WO 2008145887 A2 WO2008145887 A2 WO 2008145887A2 FR 2008050656 W FR2008050656 W FR 2008050656W WO 2008145887 A2 WO2008145887 A2 WO 2008145887A2
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
housing
base
snow
internal volume
snowmaking
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/FR2008/050656
Other languages
French (fr)
Other versions
WO2008145887A3 (en
Inventor
Philippe Duplan
Pierrick Jouneau
Matthieu Meneuvrier
Original Assignee
Johnson Controls Neige
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Johnson Controls Neige filed Critical Johnson Controls Neige
Publication of WO2008145887A2 publication Critical patent/WO2008145887A2/en
Publication of WO2008145887A3 publication Critical patent/WO2008145887A3/en

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Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25C—PRODUCING, WORKING OR HANDLING ICE
    • F25C3/00—Processes or apparatus specially adapted for producing ice or snow for winter sports or similar recreational purposes, e.g. for sporting installations; Producing artificial snow
    • F25C3/04—Processes or apparatus specially adapted for producing ice or snow for winter sports or similar recreational purposes, e.g. for sporting installations; Producing artificial snow for sledging or ski trails; Producing artificial snow
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24T—GEOTHERMAL COLLECTORS; GEOTHERMAL SYSTEMS
    • F24T10/00—Geothermal collectors
    • F24T10/30—Geothermal collectors using underground reservoirs for accumulating working fluids or intermediate fluids
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25C—PRODUCING, WORKING OR HANDLING ICE
    • F25C2303/00—Special arrangements or features for producing ice or snow for winter sports or similar recreational purposes, e.g. for sporting installations; Special arrangements or features for producing artificial snow
    • F25C2303/048—Snow making by using means for spraying water
    • F25C2303/0481—Snow making by using means for spraying water with the use of compressed air
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
    • Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
    • Y02E10/10—Geothermal energy

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to the general field of artificial snowmaking installations; it relates more particularly to an improvement made to the structure of the shelter or the buried box in which is integrated the equipment that allows the control of the supply of water, and possibly air, the associated snow cannon or.
  • Snowmaking facilities generally include several snow cannons located along the ski slope at enneiger, which make artificial snow by spraying an air / water mixture in the form of low ambient air fog. temperature.
  • the water and air supply pipes are buried along the ski slope and they are connected to each of the guns by means of control equipment which generally comprises a distributor member (bi-fluid or mono valve) -fluid) regulating the water and air supply of the associated snow gun.
  • control equipment which generally comprises a distributor member (bi-fluid or mono valve) -fluid) regulating the water and air supply of the associated snow gun.
  • electrical and electronic means control this distributor.
  • the control equipment in question is generally installed in a box or a buried shelter, described for example in document FR-2,667,681.
  • the corresponding shelter integrates support means for the distributor and for the housing which encloses its control means.
  • these shelters In order to preserve the material from frost and humidity, these shelters generally have a depth of between 1.2 m and 3 m, relative to the surrounding soil surface. To ensure maintenance or control of the integrated equipment, the operators must penetrate entirely into the shelter, through a manhole in the upper part, and descend to the bottom.
  • a first object of the present invention is to improve the safety of operators in the context of their operations of implementation, maintenance and / or control of the dispenser member. Another goal is to limit the cost of this type of installation, and in particular the costs associated with its implementation. For this, the present invention proposes - to report the fluid dispenser in their receiving cubicle (or shelter), this to a depth such that an operator can have access to it for a procedure of installation, maintenance or repair.
  • the internal volume of the box has a maximum depth of 80 cm.
  • This particular structure of snowmaking facility gives operators the opportunity to intervene within the manhole of the cubicle, on the distributor and possibly on its electrical and electronic control devices, or by being positioned outside. of said box, for example elongate on the side, or almost only with the legs and the arms integrated in said box, the operator then being seated on the upper edge of the latter and / or with the feet resting on its bottom. This results in ease of handling and a significantly lower risk of accidents.
  • such an installation can be set up very easily and very quickly, without requiring extensive digging.
  • the dispenser has the ability to function properly over time, without risk of degradation or frost-related malfunction, despite its relatively "high" position relative to the ground surface.
  • the base structure of the snow cannon is also the support structure of the box which significantly limits the civil engineering operations necessary for the proper maintenance of the whole.
  • the upper part of the box comes flush with the ground or practically flush with the ground.
  • the housing consists of a peripheral wall provided with a coating of thermally insulating material (s), whose upper edge delimits a manhole closable by a cover also provided with a coating of material (s) insulating (s) thermal (s).
  • the peripheral wall of the housing is constituted by a plastic shell equipped with an insulating coating, which peripheral wall is associated with an articulated cover, comprising a surface wall made of metal or plastic material, equipped with a interior lining of thermal insulating material.
  • the box may include heating means, for example of the type of heating cartridges, heating cords or radiators.
  • these heating means consist of a heat pipe type system having a generally elongated shape, positioned vertically with one of its ends integrated into the ground, and with its other end opening in the internal volume of the box, close to the dispenser, and preferably in physical contact with the dispenser or with the support thereof.
  • the lower portion of the housing is advantageously adapted so that the geothermal flow from the ground penetrates into its internal volume.
  • the lower part of the box may be constituted by the soil or by an embankment reported.
  • this lower portion of housing has a bottom wall permeable to heat flows, for example in the form of grating or geotextile-shaped type "BIDIM" (trademark).
  • the housing comprises an upper pin adapted to fit into a suitable opening in the upper part of the base to ensure the connection between said housing and said base.
  • the base structure of the snow gun advantageously comprises a cantilever element, forming a support for the dispenser, said support member being placed within the internal volume of the housing, via an opening arranged in the latter.
  • the base structure of the barrel is in the form of a hollow column delimiting an axial central housing which is intended to receive, over at least part of its height, a portion of the water pipes, and where appropriate air, which feed the associated snow gun; this column of the base structure and the associated box include facing openings that allow the exit of the water pipes and possibly air from the distributor and extending to the snow cannon.
  • the base structure of the barrel is provided, at its lower end, with several radiant panels, extending substantially in the same horizontal plane, to optimize its attachment and its retention in the ground.
  • the invention also relates to the method of implantation of such an installation, consisting of:
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic sectional view illustrating a snowmaking installation according to the present invention
  • FIG. 2 is a partial perspective view of a possible embodiment of a snowmaking installation according to the invention.
  • FIG. 3 is a general perspective view of a housing of Figure 2, isolated from the rest of the snowmaking facility;
  • FIG. 4 is a general and perspective view of a base structure of the snowmaking installation of FIG. 2, isolated from the remainder of the installation and represented in its configuration of implantation in a search (that is to say with its radiant panels in deployed configuration);
  • FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the base structure of Figure 4, shown in folded configuration adapted for its transport;
  • FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the base structure of FIG. 4, in its configuration configuration, connected to the water and air inlet ducts;
  • FIG. 7 is a general perspective view of the base structure of Figure 6, on which is properly reported the housing of Figure 3;
  • FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the snowmaking installation, once the box has been placed on the base and the excavation is completely backfilled;
  • FIG. 1 illustrates a snowmaking installation 1 according to the invention, implanted at the level of a dig 2 excavated beforehand in the ground.
  • This installation consists mainly of a housing 3 secured by connecting means 4 with a structure 5 constituting the base of a snow gun 6.
  • the housing 3 and the base structure 4 of the snow gun 6 are both arranged within the search 2.
  • a complete installation comprises several snow cannons 6 each associated with a cabin 3, distributed along the runway to snow.
  • the various guns 6 of the track are supplied with water and air from general pipes 7, T buried in the ground. From these general lines, so-called “secondary" lines 8, 8 'extend to a distributor member 9 (of the bi-fluid valve type), controlled by electrical / electronic means 10 housed in a housing 10' , to properly feed the associated barrel 6, by the pipes 1 1,
  • control means 10 may in some cases be formed in a housing 10 'integral with the envelope of the distributor 9.
  • the compartment 3 has the essential function of protecting within its internal volume 12 the distributor member 9 and its control means 10.
  • the housing 3 is shaped to allow an operator 13 to intervene on the distributor member 9 and on its control means 10, without having to penetrate fully within its internal volume 12.
  • L distributor member 9 and its control means 10 are located at shallow depth relative to the surface of the ground S (in particular a depth of between 40 and 80 cm maximum).
  • the internal volume 12 of the stall 3 preferably has a maximum height h of 80 cm. Still preferably, this height h is of the order of 70 cm.
  • the housing 3 is specially shaped and structured to ensure its protection against freezing.
  • the housing 3 comprises a suitable thermal insulation; in addition, it optionally incorporates heating means and / or its bottom is structured to best benefit geothermal flow.
  • the housing 3 is in the general form of a parallelepiped. It consists mainly of a belt of lateral peripheral walls 14 (four juxtaposed walls) whose upper edge 15 delimits a manhole 16 closable by a cover (or hood) 17.
  • the side wall belt 14 is advantageously in the form of a body made of recyclable thermoplastic material, for example recyclable polyethylene type.
  • each U-shaped part comprises a panel forming one side of the wall belt 14, extended by two panels each forming half of another wall (the half walls of a room U forming the front and rear walls of the housing 3 in association with the half complementary walls of the other U-shaped part).
  • These parts can be obtained, for example, by rotational molding or by thermoforming; they can be single or double skin.
  • the inner face of the plastic body, or where appropriate the space between the double skin, is advantageously equipped with a layer of thermal insulating coating, for example of glass wool or polystyrene type, and preferably hemp or cork.
  • the cover member 17 is hingedly mounted on the peripheral edge 15 of the wall belt 14.
  • This cover 17 advantageously consists of a rigid outer plate, for example of steel-type metal or plastic, provided with a thermal insulating lining (identical or similar to that of the sidewall belt 14).
  • the structure of this cover 17 is advantageously adapted to withstand operations allowing the release of snow or ice (interventions with the pickaxe in particular); more preferably, its shape is adapted to avoid hurting animals in pasture.
  • a bottom wall 18 is attached at the lower edge of the wall belt 14 to form the bottom portion of the housing 3.
  • This bottom wall 18 is here in the general form of plastic grating.
  • Such a structure defines a stable and clean background. Its multiple openings give it properties of high permeability geothermal flows, that is to say that the internal volume 12 of the box 3 can thus benefit at best from a heat input from the ground, to ensure, or to less participate in the frost protection of the distributor 9 and its control means 10.
  • the lower wall 18 may consist of a geotextile structure type "BIDIM" (registered trademark)
  • the thermal permeability of the bottom wall 18, combined with the thermal insulation characteristics of the remainder of the box 3 (in particular of its belt walls 14 and its lid 17) allows effective freeze-free maintenance of the internal volume 12, without requiring the use of additional heating means.
  • the bottom of the box 3 may be open, without grating or a particular wall. In this case, it is the earthy soil or an embankment reported that constitutes the bottom portion of the internal volume 12 of the box 3.
  • the housing 3 may be equipped with complementary heating means, for example electrical heating means, or heat pipe type.
  • a reservation or passage 21 is provided in the lower part, in the same wall element and in the grating 18 ( Figure 3); the function of this passage
  • the base 5 of the snow gun 6, shown in detail and in isolation in Figure 4, is made of metal sheets, for example stainless steel or galvanized.
  • This base 5 mainly comprises a hollow column 22 of vertical axis, generally parallelepiped shaped, composed of four side walls 23, defining a vertical axial housing 24 opening in the upper part through an orifice 5a.
  • One of the walls 23 of this column 22 (marked 23 'and arbitrarily designated "front wall”) is provided with:
  • the base 5 is further equipped with radiant panels 27, at its lower end 5b, whose function is to optimize its positioning and its stability in the bottom of the excavation 2, and also its maintenance, once the whole covered by the embankment.
  • These radiant panels 27 are four in number, arranged in a cross in the extension of each of the side walls 23 of the column 22, and this substantially in the same horizontal plane. They are each formed of a plaque of metal material (eg steel), and each have a generally rectangular shape.
  • gussets 28 are interposed between the column 22 and each radiant panel 27, to strengthen the structure.
  • the base 5 can be made of several dismountable parts and / or articulated relative to each other, so that it can be prepared in the factory, transported in the most compact manner possible and mounted very quickly on the implantation site.
  • the various radiant panels 27 can be mounted articulated on the lower edge of their respective support panels 23; on the other hand, the reinforcement gussets 28, as well as the support member 25 cantilevered, can be mounted removably via suitable mechanical connection means.
  • the gussets 28 and the support member 25 may be equipped with slit ears 29 adapted to catch on appropriate openings 30 provided in the walls 23 of the column 22 and in the radiant panels 27.
  • the radiant panels 27 can be folded against their side walls 23 facing the column 22; the reinforcing gussets 28 may be pressed against one or more of said lateral walls 23 and the support element 25 housed within the internal orifice 24 of the column 22, the assembly being held by fast connection means, screw type / wing nuts 31.
  • This "compact" presentation substantially limits the size of the base 5 and facilitates its transport and handling before laying on the site.
  • the preparation of the base 5 for its implementation consists first of all to separate the various parts by removing the screw / nut systems 31.
  • the panels 27 are deployed radially, then the reinforcing gussets 28 are each fixed between a radiant panel 27 and a side wall 23 facing by means of the aforementioned removable fastening systems of the type ears 29 / lights 30.
  • the corresponding plant consists first of all in digging a soil excavation near the main water and air supply network. This excavation must be planned large enough to accommodate the base structure 5 and the cubicle 3. It is also dug so as to allow the laying of the pipes secondary feeders 8, 8 'for extending between the main lines 7, 7' and the housing 3.
  • the base 5 suitably deployed is placed in the bottom of the excavation, the depth thereof being adapted so that the upper portion 5a of the base is in the plane or substantially in the plane of the surface of the surrounding soil S.
  • the free ends of the secondary pipes 8, 8 'which extend from the main pipes 7, T are then suitably attached to the base 5 and fixed on the support element 25, by means of suitable connectors used for fastening
  • an attached heating element 32 of heat pipe type is also placed close to the column 22.
  • This heat pipe 32 is in the form of a elongated structure, its lower end being housed in the ground, and its upper end being secured to the distributor member 9, via a suitable fastening flange.
  • an electric cable (not shown) is also attached near the column 22, to provide power to the cubicle 3.
  • the construction site is then secured by a first embankment (not shown) cast in the excavation, the surface of this embankment extending just below the support element 25.
  • This embankment covers the radiant panels 27 of the base 5 and the pipes secondary 8, 8 'posed in the bottom of the search.
  • the implantation is continued by fixing the housing 3 on the base 5, as illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10.
  • the housing 3 is positioned so that the wall element in which are formed its openings 20 and reservation 21 comes opposite the front wall 23 'of the base 5 ( Figure 9); then it is moved vertically to fit its upper pin 33 in a suitable opening 34 formed in the upper part of the base 5 ( Figure 10).
  • the support member 25 is placed in the reservation 21 of the box, or just above this one; this reservation 21 thus serves the passage of the pipes 8, 8 'which join the distributor 9.
  • This fastening 4 by the structure tenon / mortise 33, 34 ensures the earth stability of the housing 3. It also ensures its correct positioning and constant with respect to the base 5, which allows the standardization of certain components of the installation, in particular connecting lines 1 1 and 1 1 '.
  • the excavation 2 is filled by the final embankment (FIG. 8), to completely bury the casette assembly 3 / base 5.
  • the upper end 5a of the base structure 5 and the upper edge 15 of the casing 3 then come into contact with each other. position yourself on the ground.
  • the flange 35 for fixing the barrel 6 may be provided with insulation means ensuring a thermal break, to limit the heat transfer of cold from the barrel 6 to the base assembly
  • the pipes 1 1 and 1 1 'connecting the distributor 9 and the barrel 6 transit within the vertical housing 24 of the base 5 through the passages 20, 26 of the housing 3 and the front wall of the base 23', and emerging from this housing 24 by the upper end 5a of the base 5.
  • the distributor member 9 and the housing 10 'of its control means 10 are positioned last.
  • the distributor member 9 is fixed on its support 25 and is suitably connected to the various air and water pipes 8, 8 ', 1 1, 1 1'.
  • the housing 10 ' is either placed on a suitable support formed in the internal volume 12 of the housing 3, or directly fixed on the internal face of the wall belt 14, or directly attached to the distributor 9.
  • FIG. variant embodiment in which the housing 3, fixed on the base structure 5, comprises an upper portion 36 and a lower portion 37 separated by a removable bottom wall 18 in the form of grating.
  • the upper part 36 forms a technical part that integrates the dispenser member and the other functional elements described above.
  • the lower part 37 here integrates the water and air supply lines 7, T.
  • This lower part 37 can be filled by any appropriate medium (for example barks, polystyrene "chips" or other).
  • the means for securing the housing 3 with the base structure 5 may be identical to those described above in connection with FIGS. 9 and 10.
  • the base structure 5 can also be the support of a box 3 of any size, and in particular of any depth.
  • Figure 12 shows an alternative embodiment of this type, wherein the base structure 5 is secured to a housing 3 whose dimensions are greater than those of the boxes described above, particularly in terms of depth.
  • the means for securing the housing with the base structure may be identical to those described in relation to Figures 9 and 10.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Sustainable Development (AREA)
  • Sustainable Energy (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Thermal Sciences (AREA)
  • Buildings Adapted To Withstand Abnormal External Influences (AREA)
  • Nozzles (AREA)

Abstract

This snow coverage installation is of the type comprising at least one snow gun (6) connected to a water and air supply network, mounted on a base (5) and associated with a buried housing (3) above a portion (7, 7') of the said supply network. The housing (3) defines an internal volume (12) which incorporates a directional flow valve (9) for controlling the water and air supply of the said associated snow gun (6); it also comprises at least one passageway (20, 21) for the entrance of the water and air ducts (8, 8') which supply the said directional flow valve (9) and for the exit of the water and air ducts (11, 11') originating from the said directional flow valve (9) and supplying the said snow gun (6). According to the invention, the directional flow valve (9) is placed in the internal volume (12) of the housing (3), at a depth such that an operator (13) can have access thereto for the purpose of an installation, maintenance or inspection intervention, without his body being totally confined within the said internal volume (12), the latter also comprising means for keeping the said directional flow valve member (9) frost-free (preferably the internal volume of the housing has a maximum depth (hi) of 80 cm). In addition, the housing (3) comprises means (4) that allow it to be secured to the said base (5) of the gun (6), this base (5) being anchored to the ground, situated outside the internal volume (12) and used as a structure of support to the said housing (3).

Description

INSTALLATION D'ENNEIGEMENT ET LOGETTE POUR UNE TELLE INSTALLATION SNOW PLANT AND STACK FOR SUCH INSTALLATION
La présente invention concerne le domaine général des installations d'enneigement artificiel ; elle concerne plus particulièrement un perfectionnement apporté à la structure de l'abri ou de la logette enterrée dans laquelle est intégré le matériel qui permet le contrôle de l'alimentation en eau, et éventuellement en air, du ou des canons à neige associés.The present invention relates to the general field of artificial snowmaking installations; it relates more particularly to an improvement made to the structure of the shelter or the buried box in which is integrated the equipment that allows the control of the supply of water, and possibly air, the associated snow cannon or.
Les installations d'enneigement comprennent généralement plusieurs canons à neige répartis le long de la piste de ski à enneiger, qui fabriquent la neige artificielle par pulvérisation d'un mélange air/eau sous la forme d'un brouillard dans l'air ambiant à basse température.Snowmaking facilities generally include several snow cannons located along the ski slope at enneiger, which make artificial snow by spraying an air / water mixture in the form of low ambient air fog. temperature.
Les conduites d'alimentation en eau et en air sont enterrées le long de la piste de ski et elles sont raccordées à chacun des canons par l'intermédiaire d'un matériel de contrôle qui comprend généralement un organe distributeur (vanne bi-fluide ou mono-fluide) assurant la régulation de l'alimentation en eau et en air du canon à neige associé. Dans le cas d'un système automatique, des moyens électriques et électroniques pilotent ce distributeur.The water and air supply pipes are buried along the ski slope and they are connected to each of the guns by means of control equipment which generally comprises a distributor member (bi-fluid or mono valve) -fluid) regulating the water and air supply of the associated snow gun. In the case of an automatic system, electrical and electronic means control this distributor.
Le matériel de contrôle en question est généralement installé dans une logette ou un abri enterré, décrit par exemple dans le document FR-2 667 681 . L'abri correspondant intègre des moyens supports pour le distributeur et pour le boîtier qui renferme ses moyens de pilotage.The control equipment in question is generally installed in a box or a buried shelter, described for example in document FR-2,667,681. The corresponding shelter integrates support means for the distributor and for the housing which encloses its control means.
De manière à préserver le matériel du gel et de l'humidité, ces abris ont généralement une profondeur comprise entre 1 ,2 m et 3 m, par rapport à la surface du sol environnant. Pour assurer la maintenance ou le contrôle du matériel intégré, les opérateurs doivent pénétrer entièrement dans l'abri, au travers d'un trou d'homme ménagé en partie supérieure, et descendre jusqu'à son fond.In order to preserve the material from frost and humidity, these shelters generally have a depth of between 1.2 m and 3 m, relative to the surrounding soil surface. To ensure maintenance or control of the integrated equipment, the operators must penetrate entirely into the shelter, through a manhole in the upper part, and descend to the bottom.
Or, cette intervention n'est pas sans risque pour l'opérateur : le confinement dans un espace où l'électricité côtoie l'eau et où les pressions d'eau et éventuellement d'air sont importantes est particulièrement dangereux, en cas notamment de mauvaises manipulations ; l'environnement particulièrement humide peut aussi être à l'origine de chutes de l'opérateur susceptible de perdre ses appuis.However, this intervention is not without risk for the operator: the confinement in a space where the electricity mixes with the water and where the pressures of water and possibly of air are important is particularly dangerous, in particular in case of mishandling; the particularly humid environment can also be at the origin of falls of the operator likely to lose his supports.
De plus, les interventions correspondantes ne sont pas faciles à réaliser dans un espace réduit et où les mouvements sont entravés.In addition, the corresponding interventions are not easy to achieve in a small space and where the movements are hindered.
En outre, les coûts liés à l'installation de tels abris sont importants, en particulier du fait des profondeurs de creusage nécessaires et des moyens relativement lourds à mettre en œuvre pour assurer leur stabilisation sur le site. Un premier but de la présente invention est d'améliorer la sécurité des opérateurs dans le cadre de leurs opérations de mise en œuvre, de maintenance et/ou de contrôle de l'organe distributeur. Un autre but est de limiter les coûts de revient de ce genre d'installation, et en particulier les coûts liés à sa mise en place. Pour cela, la présente invention propose - de rapporter le distributeur de fluide dans leur logette (ou abri) de réception, ceci à une profondeur telle qu'un opérateur puisse y avoir accès en vue d'une intervention de pose, de maintenance ou de contrôle, sans que son corps soit totalement confiné au sein de ladite logette, - d'équiper cette logette de moyens permettant d'assurer le maintien hors-gel de ce distributeur, cela au regard des conditions de froid supposées les plus défavorables, en température et en durée, et - de solidariser la logette avec la structure de piètement du canon à neige, cette structure de piètement étant ancrée au sol, située à l'extérieur du volume interne de la logette et servant de structure support à ladite logette. Selon une forme de réalisation particulièrement intéressante, le volume interne de la logette a une profondeur maximale de 80 cm.In addition, the costs associated with the installation of such shelters are important, particularly because of the depth of digging necessary and relatively heavy means to implement to ensure their stabilization on the site. A first object of the present invention is to improve the safety of operators in the context of their operations of implementation, maintenance and / or control of the dispenser member. Another goal is to limit the cost of this type of installation, and in particular the costs associated with its implementation. For this, the present invention proposes - to report the fluid dispenser in their receiving cubicle (or shelter), this to a depth such that an operator can have access to it for a procedure of installation, maintenance or repair. control, without his body being totally confined within said box, - to equip this box of means to ensure the maintenance frost-free of this dispenser, this in light of cold conditions assumed most unfavorable, temperature and in duration, and - to secure the housing with the base structure of the snow cannon, this base structure being anchored to the ground, located outside the internal volume of the housing and serving as support structure to said housing. According to a particularly interesting embodiment, the internal volume of the box has a maximum depth of 80 cm.
Cette structure particulière d'installation d'enneigement confère aux opérateurs la possibilité d'intervenir au sein du trou d'homme de la logette, sur le distributeur et éventuellement sur ses organes électriques et électroniques de commande, soit en étant positionné à l'extérieur de ladite logette, par exemple allongé sur le côté, soit pratiquement uniquement avec les jambes et les bras intégrés dans ladite logette, l'opérateur étant alors assis sur le rebord supérieur de cette dernière et/ou avec les pieds en appui sur son fond. Il en résulte une facilité de manipulation et un risque d'accident significativement moindres. De plus, une telle installation peut être mise en place très facilement et très rapidement, sans nécessiter de creusage important. En outre, le distributeur a la possibilité de fonctionner correctement dans le temps, sans risque de dégradation ou de dysfonctionnement lié au gel, cela malgré son positionnement relativement « haut » par rapport à la surface du sol. De plus, la structure de piètement du canon à neige constitue également la structure support de la logette ce qui limite sensiblement les opérations de génie civil nécessaires au bon maintien de l'ensemble.This particular structure of snowmaking facility gives operators the opportunity to intervene within the manhole of the cubicle, on the distributor and possibly on its electrical and electronic control devices, or by being positioned outside. of said box, for example elongate on the side, or almost only with the legs and the arms integrated in said box, the operator then being seated on the upper edge of the latter and / or with the feet resting on its bottom. This results in ease of handling and a significantly lower risk of accidents. In addition, such an installation can be set up very easily and very quickly, without requiring extensive digging. In addition, the dispenser has the ability to function properly over time, without risk of degradation or frost-related malfunction, despite its relatively "high" position relative to the ground surface. In addition, the base structure of the snow cannon is also the support structure of the box which significantly limits the civil engineering operations necessary for the proper maintenance of the whole.
De préférence, la partie supérieure de la logette vient à fleur de sol ou pratiquement à fleur de sol.Preferably, the upper part of the box comes flush with the ground or practically flush with the ground.
Selon une caractéristique avantageuse, la logette est constituée d'une paroi périphérique munie d'un revêtement en matériau(x) isolant(s) thermique(s), dont la bordure supérieure délimite un trou d'homme obturable par un couvercle également muni d'un revêtement en matériau(x) isolant(s) thermique(s).According to an advantageous characteristic, the housing consists of a peripheral wall provided with a coating of thermally insulating material (s), whose upper edge delimits a manhole closable by a cover also provided with a coating of material (s) insulating (s) thermal (s).
Avantageusement, la paroi périphérique de la logette est constituée d'une coque en matière plastique équipée d'un revêtement isolant, laquelle paroi périphérique est associée à un couvercle articulé, comprenant une paroi de surface en métal ou en matière plastique, équipée d'un revêtement intérieur en matériau isolant thermique.Advantageously, the peripheral wall of the housing is constituted by a plastic shell equipped with an insulating coating, which peripheral wall is associated with an articulated cover, comprising a surface wall made of metal or plastic material, equipped with a interior lining of thermal insulating material.
Pour assurer le maintien hors-gel du distributeur, la logette peut intégrer des moyens de chauffage, par exemple du genre cartouches chauffantes, cordons chauffants ou radiateurs. De manière préférentielle, en particulier pour limiter les surcoûts, ces moyens de chauffage consistent en un système de type caloduc ayant une forme générale allongée, positionné verticalement avec l'une de ses extrémités intégrée en profondeur dans le sol, et avec son autre extrémité débouchant dans le volume interne de la logette, à proximité du distributeur, et de préférence en contact physique avec ce distributeur ou avec le support de ce dernier.To ensure the frost-free maintenance of the dispenser, the box may include heating means, for example of the type of heating cartridges, heating cords or radiators. Preferably, in particular to limit the additional costs, these heating means consist of a heat pipe type system having a generally elongated shape, positioned vertically with one of its ends integrated into the ground, and with its other end opening in the internal volume of the box, close to the dispenser, and preferably in physical contact with the dispenser or with the support thereof.
Toujours pour préserver ce maintien hors-gel, en remplacement ou en association avec les moyens de chauffage précités, la partie inférieure de la logette est avantageusement adaptée pour que le flux géothermique provenant du sol pénètre dans son volume interne. Dans ce cas, la partie inférieure de la logette peut être constituée par le sol ou par un remblai rapporté. De manière alternative, cette partie inférieure de logette comporte une paroi de fond perméable aux flux thermiques, par exemple en forme de caillebotis ou en forme de géotextile de type « BIDIM » (marque déposée).Still to preserve this maintenance frost, in replacement or in combination with the aforementioned heating means, the lower portion of the housing is advantageously adapted so that the geothermal flow from the ground penetrates into its internal volume. In this case, the lower part of the box may be constituted by the soil or by an embankment reported. Alternatively, this lower portion of housing has a bottom wall permeable to heat flows, for example in the form of grating or geotextile-shaped type "BIDIM" (trademark).
Selon une autre particularité, la logette comprend un tenon supérieur apte à s'emboîter dans une ouverture appropriée ménagée dans la partie supérieure du piètement pour assurer la solidarisation entre ladite logette et ledit piètement.In another feature, the housing comprises an upper pin adapted to fit into a suitable opening in the upper part of the base to ensure the connection between said housing and said base.
Alors, la structure de piètement du canon à neige comporte avantageusement un élément en porte-à-faux, formant support pour le distributeur, ledit élément support venant se placer au sein du volume interne de la logette, par l'intermédiaire d'une ouverture ménagée dans cette dernière.Then, the base structure of the snow gun advantageously comprises a cantilever element, forming a support for the dispenser, said support member being placed within the internal volume of the housing, via an opening arranged in the latter.
Selon encore une autre particularité, la structure de piètement du canon se présente sous la forme d'une colonne creuse délimitant un logement central axial qui est destiné à recevoir, sur au moins une partie de sa hauteur, une portion des canalisations d'eau, et le cas échéant d'air, qui alimentent le canon à neige associé ; cette colonne de la structure de piètement et la logette associée comportent des ouvertures en regard qui permettent la sortie des canalisations d'eau et éventuellement d'air partant du distributeur et s'étendant jusqu'au canon à neige.According to yet another particularity, the base structure of the barrel is in the form of a hollow column delimiting an axial central housing which is intended to receive, over at least part of its height, a portion of the water pipes, and where appropriate air, which feed the associated snow gun; this column of the base structure and the associated box include facing openings that allow the exit of the water pipes and possibly air from the distributor and extending to the snow cannon.
Selon encore une autre caractéristique, la structure de piètement du canon est munie, au niveau de son extrémité inférieure, de plusieurs panneaux radiants, s'étendant sensiblement dans un même plan horizontal, pour optimiser sa fixation et son maintien dans le sol.According to yet another characteristic, the base structure of the barrel is provided, at its lower end, with several radiant panels, extending substantially in the same horizontal plane, to optimize its attachment and its retention in the ground.
L'invention concerne encore le procédé d'implantation d'une telle installation, consistant à :The invention also relates to the method of implantation of such an installation, consisting of:
- à creuser une fouille dans le sol à proximité du réseau principal d'alimentation en eau et en air, la profondeur de cette fouille correspondant sensiblement à la hauteur de la structure de piètement du canon à neige,digging a dig in the ground close to the main water and air supply network, the depth of this excavation substantially corresponding to the height of the base structure of the snow cannon,
- à poser la structure de piètement dans la fouille de sorte que sa partie supérieure se situe dans le plan ou sensiblement dans le plan de la surface du sol S environnant,placing the base structure in the excavation so that its upper part lies in the plane or substantially in the plane of the surface of the surrounding soil S,
- à rapporter les extrémités libres des conduites secondaires d'alimentation en eau et en air au niveau du piètement (et éventuellement à les fixer sur l'élément support destiné à réceptionner l'organe distributeur),- To report the free ends of the secondary supply lines of water and air at the base (and possibly to fix them on the support member for receiving the dispenser member),
- à couler un remblai dans la fouille jusqu'au niveau de positionnement de la logette (ou jusque légèrement sous le niveau dudit élément support),to sink an embankment in the excavation to the positioning level of the stall (or just slightly below the level of said support element),
- à fixer la logette sur le piètement (éventuellement en intégrant ledit élément support dans le volume interne de la logette par passage dans une réservation appropriée de ladite logette),to fix the box on the base (possibly by integrating said support element into the internal volume of the box by passing through an appropriate reservation of said box),
- à remplir la fouille par le remblai final jusqu'à l'extrémité supérieure dudit piètement et la bordure supérieure de ladite logette, etcompleting the excavation by the final embankment up to the upper end of said base and the upper edge of said stall, and
- à mettre en place le canon à neige sur l'extrémité supérieure du piètement. L'invention sera encore illustrée, sans être aucunement limitée, par la description suivante, associée aux dessins annexés dans lesquels :- to set up the snow gun on the upper end of the base. The invention will be further illustrated, without being limited in any way, by the following description, associated with the accompanying drawings in which:
- la figure 1 est une vue schématique, en coupe, illustrant une installation d'enneigement conforme à la présente invention ;- Figure 1 is a schematic sectional view illustrating a snowmaking installation according to the present invention;
- la figure 2 est une vue en perspective partielle d'une forme de réalisation possible d'une installation d'enneigement selon l'invention ;FIG. 2 is a partial perspective view of a possible embodiment of a snowmaking installation according to the invention;
- la figure 3 est une vue générale et en perspective d'une logette de la figure 2, isolée du reste de l'installation d'enneigement ;- Figure 3 is a general perspective view of a housing of Figure 2, isolated from the rest of the snowmaking facility;
- la figure 4 est une vue générale et en perspective d'une structure de piètement de l'installation d'enneigement de la figure 2, isolée du reste de l'installation et représentée dans sa configuration d'implantation dans une fouille (c'est-à-dire avec ses panneaux radiants en configuration déployée) ;FIG. 4 is a general and perspective view of a base structure of the snowmaking installation of FIG. 2, isolated from the remainder of the installation and represented in its configuration of implantation in a search (that is to say with its radiant panels in deployed configuration);
- la figure 5 est une vue en perspective de la structure de piètement de la figure 4, représentée en configuration repliée, adaptée pour son transport ; - la figure 6 est une vue en perspective de la structure de piètement de la figure 4, dans sa configuration d'implantation, raccordée aux conduites d'arrivée d'eau et d'air ;- Figure 5 is a perspective view of the base structure of Figure 4, shown in folded configuration adapted for its transport; FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the base structure of FIG. 4, in its configuration configuration, connected to the water and air inlet ducts;
- la figure 7 est une vue générale et en perspective de la structure de piètement de la figure 6, sur laquelle est convenablement rapportée la logette de la figure 3 ;- Figure 7 is a general perspective view of the base structure of Figure 6, on which is properly reported the housing of Figure 3;
- la figure 8 est une vue en perspective de l'installation d'enneigement, une fois la logette mise en place sur le piètement et la fouille entièrement remblayée ;FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the snowmaking installation, once the box has been placed on the base and the excavation is completely backfilled;
- les figures 9 et 10 illustrent en deux étapes la fixation de la logette sur le piètement du canon à neige associé ;- Figures 9 and 10 illustrate in two stages the fixing of the box on the base of the associated snow gun;
- les figures 1 1 et 12 montrent deux variantes de réalisations possibles d'une installation d'enneigement. La figure 1 illustre une installation d'enneigement 1 conforme à l'invention, implantée au niveau d'une fouille 2 creusée préalablement dans le sol.- Figures 1 1 and 12 show two variants of possible embodiments of a snowmaking facility. FIG. 1 illustrates a snowmaking installation 1 according to the invention, implanted at the level of a dig 2 excavated beforehand in the ground.
Cette installation se compose principalement d'une logette 3 solidarisée par des moyens de liaison 4 avec une structure 5 constituant le piètement d'un canon à neige 6. La logette 3 et la structure de piètement 4 du canon à neige 6 sont toutes deux disposées au sein de la fouille 2.This installation consists mainly of a housing 3 secured by connecting means 4 with a structure 5 constituting the base of a snow gun 6. The housing 3 and the base structure 4 of the snow gun 6 are both arranged within the search 2.
Une installation complète comporte plusieurs canons à neige 6 associés chacun à une logette 3, répartis le long de la piste à enneiger.A complete installation comprises several snow cannons 6 each associated with a cabin 3, distributed along the runway to snow.
Les différents canons 6 de la piste sont alimentés en eau et en air à partir de conduites générales 7, T enfouies dans le sol. A partir de ces conduites générales, des conduites dites « secondaires » 8, 8' s'étendent jusqu'à un organe distributeur 9 (du type vanne bi-fluide), piloté par des moyens électriques/électroniques 10 logés dans un boîtier 10', pour alimenter convenablement le canon 6 associé, par les conduites 1 1 ,The various guns 6 of the track are supplied with water and air from general pipes 7, T buried in the ground. From these general lines, so-called "secondary" lines 8, 8 'extend to a distributor member 9 (of the bi-fluid valve type), controlled by electrical / electronic means 10 housed in a housing 10' , to properly feed the associated barrel 6, by the pipes 1 1,
1 1 ' (ceci selon un débit et un rapport air/eau défini). Les moyens de pilotage 10 peuvent dans certains cas être ménagés dans un boîtier 10' solidaire de l'enveloppe du distributeur 9.1 '(this according to a flow rate and a defined air / water ratio). The control means 10 may in some cases be formed in a housing 10 'integral with the envelope of the distributor 9.
La logette 3 a pour fonction essentielle de protéger au sein de son volume interne 12 l'organe distributeur 9 et ses moyens de pilotage 10. Conformément à l'invention, la logette 3 est conformée pour permettre à un opérateur 13 d'intervenir sur l'organe distributeur 9 et sur ses moyens de pilotage 10, cela sans avoir besoin de pénétrer entièrement au sein de son volume interne 12. L'organe distributeur 9 et ses moyens de pilotage 10 sont situés à faible profondeur par rapport à la surface du sol S (en particulier une profondeur comprise entre 40 et 80 cm maximum).The compartment 3 has the essential function of protecting within its internal volume 12 the distributor member 9 and its control means 10. According to the invention, the housing 3 is shaped to allow an operator 13 to intervene on the distributor member 9 and on its control means 10, without having to penetrate fully within its internal volume 12. L distributor member 9 and its control means 10 are located at shallow depth relative to the surface of the ground S (in particular a depth of between 40 and 80 cm maximum).
De la sorte, les interventions de pose, de maintenance ou de contrôle peuvent être réalisées :In this way, installation, maintenance or control operations can be performed:
- par l'opérateur 13 allongé sur le côté de la logette 3, - par l'opérateur 13 assis sur le bord de la logette 3,by the operator 13 lying on the side of the box 3, by the operator 13 sitting on the edge of the box 3,
- soit encore, comme illustré sur la figure 1 , par l'opérateur 13 en appui sur le fond de la logette 3 (penché en avant ou accroupi).- Or again, as shown in Figure 1, the operator 13 bears on the bottom of the box 3 (leaning forward or squatting).
Pour cela et en particulier dans le cadre de cette dernière possibilité, le volume interne 12 de la logette 3 a de préférence une hauteur maximale h de 80 cm. Encore de manière préférée, cette hauteur h est de l'ordre de 70 cm.For this and in particular within the context of this latter possibility, the internal volume 12 of the stall 3 preferably has a maximum height h of 80 cm. Still preferably, this height h is of the order of 70 cm.
Comme l'organe distributeur 9 se situe à un niveau assez proche de la surface du sol S, la logette 3 est spécialement conformée et structurée pour assurer sa protection contre le gel.As the dispensing member 9 is at a level fairly close to the surface of the ground S, the housing 3 is specially shaped and structured to ensure its protection against freezing.
Ainsi, la logette 3 comporte une isolation thermique adaptée ; en outre, elle intègre éventuellement des moyens de chauffage et/ou son fond est structuré pour bénéficier au mieux du flux géothermique.Thus, the housing 3 comprises a suitable thermal insulation; in addition, it optionally incorporates heating means and / or its bottom is structured to best benefit geothermal flow.
Une forme de réalisation possible de cette logette 3 est illustrée sur les figures 2 et 3.A possible embodiment of this housing 3 is illustrated in Figures 2 and 3.
En l'occurrence, sur ces deux figures, la logette 3 se présente sous la forme générale d'un parallélépipède. Elle se compose principalement d'une ceinture de parois périphériques latérales 14 (quatre parois juxtaposées) dont la bordure supérieure 15 délimite un trou d'homme 16 obturable par un couvercle (ou capot) 17.In this case, in these two figures, the housing 3 is in the general form of a parallelepiped. It consists mainly of a belt of lateral peripheral walls 14 (four juxtaposed walls) whose upper edge 15 delimits a manhole 16 closable by a cover (or hood) 17.
La ceinture de parois latérales 14 se présente avantageusement sous la forme d'un corps réalisé en matériau thermoplastique recyclable, par exemple de type polyéthylène recyclable.The side wall belt 14 is advantageously in the form of a body made of recyclable thermoplastic material, for example recyclable polyethylene type.
Ce corps en matière plastique se compose d'une pièce monobloc ou de deux pièces monoblocs en forme générale de U ; dans ce dernier cas, chaque pièce en U comprend un panneau formant l'un des côtés de la ceinture de parois 14, prolongé par deux panneaux formant chacun la moitié d'une autre paroi (les demi-parois d'une pièce en U formant les parois avant et arrière de la logette 3 en association avec les demi- parois complémentaires de l'autre pièce en U).This plastic body consists of a one-piece piece or two one-piece pieces in the general shape of U; in the latter case, each U-shaped part comprises a panel forming one side of the wall belt 14, extended by two panels each forming half of another wall (the half walls of a room U forming the front and rear walls of the housing 3 in association with the half complementary walls of the other U-shaped part).
Ces pièces peuvent être obtenues, par exemple, par rotomoulage ou par thermoformage ; elles peuvent être à simple ou double peau. La face interne du corps en matière plastique, ou le cas échéant l'espace entre la double peau, est avantageusement équipée d'une couche de revêtement isolant thermique, par exemple de type laine de verre ou polystyrène, et de manière préférée du chanvre ou du liège.These parts can be obtained, for example, by rotational molding or by thermoforming; they can be single or double skin. The inner face of the plastic body, or where appropriate the space between the double skin, is advantageously equipped with a layer of thermal insulating coating, for example of glass wool or polystyrene type, and preferably hemp or cork.
L'élément de couvercle 17 est monté articulé sur la bordure périphérique 15 de la ceinture de parois 14. Ce couvercle 17 est avantageusement constitué d'un plateau externe rigide, par exemple en métal de type acier ou en matière plastique, muni d'un revêtement intérieur isolant thermique (identique ou similaire à celui de la ceinture de parois latérales 14). La structure de ce capot 17 est avantageusement adaptée pour résister aux opérations permettant le dégagement de neige ou de glace (interventions à la pioche en particulier) ; de préférence encore, sa forme est adaptée pour éviter de blesser les animaux en pâturage.The cover member 17 is hingedly mounted on the peripheral edge 15 of the wall belt 14. This cover 17 advantageously consists of a rigid outer plate, for example of steel-type metal or plastic, provided with a thermal insulating lining (identical or similar to that of the sidewall belt 14). The structure of this cover 17 is advantageously adapted to withstand operations allowing the release of snow or ice (interventions with the pickaxe in particular); more preferably, its shape is adapted to avoid hurting animals in pasture.
Une paroi inférieure 18 est rapportée au niveau de la bordure inférieure de la ceinture de parois 14 pour former la partie de fond de la logette 3. Cette paroi inférieure 18 est ici en forme générale de caillebotis en matière plastique. Une telle structure définit un fond stable et propre. Ses multiples ouvertures lui confèrent des propriétés de forte perméabilité aux flux géothermiques, c'est-à-dire que le volume interne 12 de la logette 3 peut ainsi bénéficier au mieux d'un apport de chaleur provenant du sol, pour assurer, ou au moins participer à la mise hors-gel du distributeur 9 et de ses moyens de pilotage 10. A titre de variante de réalisation, la paroi inférieure 18 peut être constituée d'une structure géotextile de type « BIDIM » (marque déposée)A bottom wall 18 is attached at the lower edge of the wall belt 14 to form the bottom portion of the housing 3. This bottom wall 18 is here in the general form of plastic grating. Such a structure defines a stable and clean background. Its multiple openings give it properties of high permeability geothermal flows, that is to say that the internal volume 12 of the box 3 can thus benefit at best from a heat input from the ground, to ensure, or to less participate in the frost protection of the distributor 9 and its control means 10. As an alternative embodiment, the lower wall 18 may consist of a geotextile structure type "BIDIM" (registered trademark)
Dans une grande partie des zones géographiques à équiper (en fonction des conditions météorologiques classiques de ces zones), la perméabilité thermique de la paroi de fond 18, combinée aux caractéristiques d'isolation thermique du reste de la logette 3 (en particulier de sa ceinture de parois 14 et de son couvercle 17) permet un maintien hors-gel efficace du volume interne 12, cela sans nécessiter l'emploi de moyens de chauffage supplémentaires. De manière alternative, le fond de la logette 3 peut être débouchant, dépourvu de caillebotis ou d'une paroi particulière. Dans ce cas, c'est le sol terreux ou un remblai rapporté qui constitue la partie de fond du volume interne 12 de la logette 3.In a large part of the geographical areas to be equipped (depending on the conventional meteorological conditions of these areas), the thermal permeability of the bottom wall 18, combined with the thermal insulation characteristics of the remainder of the box 3 (in particular of its belt walls 14 and its lid 17) allows effective freeze-free maintenance of the internal volume 12, without requiring the use of additional heating means. Alternatively, the bottom of the box 3 may be open, without grating or a particular wall. In this case, it is the earthy soil or an embankment reported that constitutes the bottom portion of the internal volume 12 of the box 3.
En fonction des conditions nécessaires pour assurer la mise hors-gel des matériels « sensibles » 9, 10, la logette 3 peut être équipée de moyens de chauffage complémentaires, par exemple des moyens de chauffage électrique, ou encore de type caloduc.Depending on the conditions necessary to ensure the frost protection of the "sensitive" equipment 9, 10, the housing 3 may be equipped with complementary heating means, for example electrical heating means, or heat pipe type.
Sur les figures 2 et 3, on remarque que la logette 3 comporte deux ouverturesIn FIGS. 2 and 3, it can be seen that the box 3 has two openings
20 ménagées dans la partie centrale de l'élément de paroi sur lequel est articulé le couvercle 17. Ces ouvertures 20 vont permettre le passage des canalisations d'alimentation en eau et en air du canon à neige, comme expliqué plus loin.20 are formed in the central part of the wall element on which is hinged cover 17. These openings 20 will allow the passage of the water supply and air supply ducts of the snow cannon, as explained below.
D'autre part, une réservation ou passage 21 est ménagé en partie inférieure, dans le même élément de paroi et dans le caillebotis 18 (figure 3) ; la fonction de ce passageOn the other hand, a reservation or passage 21 is provided in the lower part, in the same wall element and in the grating 18 (Figure 3); the function of this passage
21 sera expliquée plus loin. Le piètement 5 du canon à neige 6, représenté en détails et de manière isolée sur la figure 4, est réalisé à base de tôles métalliques, par exemple de type acier inoxydable ou galvanisé.21 will be explained later. The base 5 of the snow gun 6, shown in detail and in isolation in Figure 4, is made of metal sheets, for example stainless steel or galvanized.
Ce piètement 5 comprend principalement une colonne creuse 22 d'axe vertical, en forme générale de parallélépipède, composée de quatre parois latérales 23, délimitant un logement axial vertical 24 débouchant en partie supérieure par un orifice 5a.This base 5 mainly comprises a hollow column 22 of vertical axis, generally parallelepiped shaped, composed of four side walls 23, defining a vertical axial housing 24 opening in the upper part through an orifice 5a.
L'une des parois 23 de cette colonne 22 (repérée 23' et dénommée arbitrairement « paroi avant ») est munie :One of the walls 23 of this column 22 (marked 23 'and arbitrarily designated "front wall") is provided with:
- d'un organe rapporté 25, en forme de plateau horizontal s'étendant en porte-à-faux, destiné à servir d'élément support pour l'organe distributeur 9, et - une voire deux ouvertures 26, situées juste au-dessus dudit élément support 25, servant au passage des conduites d'air et d'eau 1 1 et 1 1 ' (provenant du distributeur 9 et servant à l'alimentation du canon 6).- An insert member 25 in the form of a horizontal tray extending cantilever, intended to serve as a support member for the distributor member 9, and - one or two openings 26, located just above said support member 25, serving for the passage of the air and water pipes 1 1 and 1 1 '(from the distributor 9 and for feeding the barrel 6).
Le piètement 5 est encore équipé de panneaux radiants 27, au niveau de son extrémité inférieure 5b, qui ont pour fonction d'optimiser son positionnement et sa stabilité dans le fond de la fouille 2, et aussi son maintien, une fois l'ensemble recouvert par le remblai.The base 5 is further equipped with radiant panels 27, at its lower end 5b, whose function is to optimize its positioning and its stability in the bottom of the excavation 2, and also its maintenance, once the whole covered by the embankment.
Ces panneaux radiants 27 sont au nombre de quatre, disposés en croix dans le prolongement de chacune des parois latérales 23 de la colonne 22, et cela sensiblement dans un même plan horizontal. Ils sont formés chacun d'une plaque de matériau métallique (par exemple en acier), et présentent chacun une forme générale rectangulaire.These radiant panels 27 are four in number, arranged in a cross in the extension of each of the side walls 23 of the column 22, and this substantially in the same horizontal plane. They are each formed of a plaque of metal material (eg steel), and each have a generally rectangular shape.
En outre, des goussets 28 sont interposés entre la colonne 22 et chaque panneau radiant 27, pour renforcer la structure. Le piètement 5 peut être réalisé en plusieurs pièces démontables et/ou articulées les unes par rapport aux autres, de manière à pouvoir être préparé en usine, transporté de la manière la plus compacte possible et monté très rapidement sur le site d'implantation. Ainsi, les différents panneaux radiants 27 peuvent être montés articulés sur la bordure inférieure de leurs panneaux supports 23 respectifs ; d'autre part, les goussets de renfort 28, ainsi que l'élément support 25 en porte-à-faux, peuvent être montés de manière amovible par l'intermédiaire de moyens de liaison mécanique adaptés. Par exemple, les goussets 28 et l'élément support 25 peuvent être équipés d'oreilles à fente 29 adaptées pour venir s'accrocher sur des lumières 30 appropriées ménagées dans les parois 23 de la colonne 22 et dans les panneaux radiants 27.In addition, gussets 28 are interposed between the column 22 and each radiant panel 27, to strengthen the structure. The base 5 can be made of several dismountable parts and / or articulated relative to each other, so that it can be prepared in the factory, transported in the most compact manner possible and mounted very quickly on the implantation site. Thus, the various radiant panels 27 can be mounted articulated on the lower edge of their respective support panels 23; on the other hand, the reinforcement gussets 28, as well as the support member 25 cantilevered, can be mounted removably via suitable mechanical connection means. For example, the gussets 28 and the support member 25 may be equipped with slit ears 29 adapted to catch on appropriate openings 30 provided in the walls 23 of the column 22 and in the radiant panels 27.
Ainsi, comme illustré sur la figure 5, les panneaux radiants 27 peuvent être repliés contre leurs parois latérales 23 en regard de la colonne 22 ; les goussets de renfort 28 peuvent être plaqués contre l'une ou plusieurs desdites parois latérales 23 et l'élément support 25 logé au sein de l'orifice interne 24 de la colonne 22, l'ensemble étant maintenu par des moyens de liaison rapides, du type vis/écrous à oreilles 31.Thus, as illustrated in FIG. 5, the radiant panels 27 can be folded against their side walls 23 facing the column 22; the reinforcing gussets 28 may be pressed against one or more of said lateral walls 23 and the support element 25 housed within the internal orifice 24 of the column 22, the assembly being held by fast connection means, screw type / wing nuts 31.
Cette présentation « compacte » limite sensiblement l'encombrement du piètement 5 et facilite son transport et ses manipulations avant la pose sur le site.This "compact" presentation substantially limits the size of the base 5 and facilitates its transport and handling before laying on the site.
Partant de cette configuration compacte, la préparation du piètement 5 en vue de son implantation consiste tout d'abord à désolidariser les différentes pièces en enlevant les systèmes vis/écrous 31. Les panneaux 27 sont déployés radialement, puis les goussets de renfort 28 sont chacun fixés entre un panneau radiant 27 et une paroi latérale 23 en regard au moyen des systèmes d'accrochage amovibles précités du type oreilles 29/lumières 30.Starting from this compact configuration, the preparation of the base 5 for its implementation consists first of all to separate the various parts by removing the screw / nut systems 31. The panels 27 are deployed radially, then the reinforcing gussets 28 are each fixed between a radiant panel 27 and a side wall 23 facing by means of the aforementioned removable fastening systems of the type ears 29 / lights 30.
La mise en place de l'ensemble piètement 5/logette 3 sur le site d'implantation est détaillée ci-dessous en relation avec les figures 6 à 8.The implementation of the assembly base 5 / box 3 on the implantation site is detailed below in connection with Figures 6 to 8.
L'implantation correspondante consiste tout d'abord à creuser une fouille dans le sol, à proximité du réseau principal d'alimentation en eau et en air. Cette fouille doit être prévue suffisamment grande pour accueillir la structure de piètement 5 et la logette 3. Elle est également creusée de sorte à permettre la pose des conduites d'alimentation secondaires 8, 8' destinées à s'étendre entre les conduites principales 7, 7' et la logette 3.The corresponding plant consists first of all in digging a soil excavation near the main water and air supply network. This excavation must be planned large enough to accommodate the base structure 5 and the cubicle 3. It is also dug so as to allow the laying of the pipes secondary feeders 8, 8 'for extending between the main lines 7, 7' and the housing 3.
Le piètement 5 convenablement déployé est posé dans le fond de la fouille, la profondeur de celle-ci étant adaptée de sorte que la partie supérieure 5a du piètement se situe dans le plan ou sensiblement dans le plan de la surface du sol S environnant. Les extrémités libres des conduites secondaires 8, 8' qui s'étendent depuis les conduites principales 7, T sont ensuite convenablement rapportées au niveau du piètement 5 et fixées sur l'élément support 25, par l'intermédiaire de raccords adaptés servant à la fixation de l'organe distributeur 9. En outre, comme on peut le voir sur la figure 2, un organe chauffant rapporté 32, de type caloduc est également posé à proximité de la colonne 22. Ce caloduc 32 se présente sous la forme d'une structure allongée, son extrémité inférieure étant logée dans le sol, et son extrémité supérieure étant solidarisée avec l'organe distributeur 9, par l'intermédiaire d'une bride de fixation adaptée. D'autre part, un câble électrique (non représenté) est également rapporté à proximité de la colonne 22, pour assurer l'alimentation électrique de la logette 3.The base 5 suitably deployed is placed in the bottom of the excavation, the depth thereof being adapted so that the upper portion 5a of the base is in the plane or substantially in the plane of the surface of the surrounding soil S. The free ends of the secondary pipes 8, 8 'which extend from the main pipes 7, T are then suitably attached to the base 5 and fixed on the support element 25, by means of suitable connectors used for fastening Furthermore, as can be seen in FIG. 2, an attached heating element 32 of heat pipe type is also placed close to the column 22. This heat pipe 32 is in the form of a elongated structure, its lower end being housed in the ground, and its upper end being secured to the distributor member 9, via a suitable fastening flange. On the other hand, an electric cable (not shown) is also attached near the column 22, to provide power to the cubicle 3.
Le chantier est ensuite sécurisé par un premier remblai (non représenté) coulé dans la fouille, la surface de ce remblai s'étendant juste en-dessous de l'élément support 25. Ce remblai recouvre les panneaux radiants 27 du piètement 5 et les conduites secondaires 8, 8' posées dans le fond de la fouille.The construction site is then secured by a first embankment (not shown) cast in the excavation, the surface of this embankment extending just below the support element 25. This embankment covers the radiant panels 27 of the base 5 and the pipes secondary 8, 8 'posed in the bottom of the search.
On poursuit l'implantation par la fixation de la logette 3 sur le piètement 5, tel qu'illustré sur les figures 9 et 10.The implantation is continued by fixing the housing 3 on the base 5, as illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10.
Pour cela, la logette 3 est positionnée de sorte que l'élément de paroi dans lequel sont ménagées ses ouvertures 20 et réservation 21 vienne en regard de la paroi avant 23' du piètement 5 (figure 9) ; puis on lui fait subir un mouvement de translation verticale pour emboîter son tenon supérieur 33 dans une ouverture appropriée 34 ménagée dans la partie supérieure du piètement 5 (figure 10).For this, the housing 3 is positioned so that the wall element in which are formed its openings 20 and reservation 21 comes opposite the front wall 23 'of the base 5 (Figure 9); then it is moved vertically to fit its upper pin 33 in a suitable opening 34 formed in the upper part of the base 5 (Figure 10).
Une fois la logette 3 convenablement en place, ses ouvertures 20 sont positionnées en regard des ouvertures 26 du piètement 5. D'autre part, l'élément support 25 vient se placer dans la réservation 21 de la logette, ou juste au-dessus de celle-ci ; cette réservation 21 sert donc au passage des conduites 8, 8' qui rejoignent le distributeur 9. Cette solidarisation 4 par la structure tenon/mortaise 33, 34 permet d'assurer la stabilité en terre de la logette 3. Elle assure aussi son positionnement correct et constant par rapport au piètement 5, ce qui autorise la standardisation de certains éléments constitutifs de l'installation, en particulier des conduites de raccordement 1 1 et 1 1 '.Once the housing 3 properly in place, its openings 20 are positioned opposite the openings 26 of the base 5. On the other hand, the support member 25 is placed in the reservation 21 of the box, or just above this one; this reservation 21 thus serves the passage of the pipes 8, 8 'which join the distributor 9. This fastening 4 by the structure tenon / mortise 33, 34 ensures the earth stability of the housing 3. It also ensures its correct positioning and constant with respect to the base 5, which allows the standardization of certain components of the installation, in particular connecting lines 1 1 and 1 1 '.
Ensuite, la fouille 2 est remplie par le remblai final (figure 8), pour enterrer complètement l'ensemble logette 3/piètement 5. L'extrémité supérieure 5a de la structure de piètement 5 et la bordure supérieure 15 de la logette 3 viennent alors se positionner à fleur de sol.Then, the excavation 2 is filled by the final embankment (FIG. 8), to completely bury the casette assembly 3 / base 5. The upper end 5a of the base structure 5 and the upper edge 15 of the casing 3 then come into contact with each other. position yourself on the ground.
On peut alors mettre en place le canon à neige 6 sur l'extrémité supérieure 5a du piètement 5, par exemple au moyen d'une bride 35 (seule l'extrémité inférieure de la perche du canon 6 est représentée sur la figure 8). La bride 35 de fixation du canon 6 peut être munie de moyens d'isolation assurant une rupture de pont thermique, pour limiter le transfert thermique de froid depuis le canon 6 vers l'ensemble piètementIt is then possible to set up the snow gun 6 on the upper end 5a of the base 5, for example by means of a flange 35 (only the lower end of the boom of the barrel 6 is shown in FIG. 8). The flange 35 for fixing the barrel 6 may be provided with insulation means ensuring a thermal break, to limit the heat transfer of cold from the barrel 6 to the base assembly
5/logette 3.5 / cubicle 3.
Les conduites 1 1 et 1 1 ' raccordant le distributeur 9 et le canon 6 transitent au sein du logement vertical 24 du piètement 5 en passant par les passages 20, 26 de la logette 3 et de la paroi avant de piètement 23', et en ressortant de ce logement 24 par l'extrémité supérieure 5a du piètement 5.The pipes 1 1 and 1 1 'connecting the distributor 9 and the barrel 6 transit within the vertical housing 24 of the base 5 through the passages 20, 26 of the housing 3 and the front wall of the base 23', and emerging from this housing 24 by the upper end 5a of the base 5.
L'organe distributeur 9 et le boîtier 10' de ses moyens de pilotage 10 sont positionnés en dernier lieu. L'organe distributeur 9 est fixé sur son support 25 et il est convenablement raccordé aux différentes conduites d'air et d'eau 8, 8', 1 1 , 1 1 '. Le boîtier 10' est soit posé sur un support adapté ménagé dans le volume interne 12 de la logette 3, soit directement fixé sur la face interne de la ceinture de parois 14, soit encore directement fixé sur le distributeur 9.The distributor member 9 and the housing 10 'of its control means 10 are positioned last. The distributor member 9 is fixed on its support 25 and is suitably connected to the various air and water pipes 8, 8 ', 1 1, 1 1'. The housing 10 'is either placed on a suitable support formed in the internal volume 12 of the housing 3, or directly fixed on the internal face of the wall belt 14, or directly attached to the distributor 9.
Ces dernières opérations peuvent être mises en œuvre de manière simple et rapide par un opérateur qualifié, et cela en toute sécurité au travers du trou d'homme 16 de la logette 3. Les différents raccordements électriques nécessaires sont également réalisés de manière simple et rapide.These last operations can be implemented quickly and easily by a qualified operator, and this safely through the manhole 16 of the housing 3. The various electrical connections required are also made simply and quickly.
Pour améliorer la sécurité, on notera qu'il peut être prévu des moyens, en forme d'interrupteur, aptes à assurer la coupure de l'alimentation électrique dès l'ouverture de l'élément de couvercle 17. La figure 1 1 illustre une variante de réalisation dans laquelle la logette 3, fixée sur la structure de piètement 5, comprend une partie supérieure 36 et une partie inférieure 37 séparées par une paroi inférieure amovible 18 en forme de caillebotis. La partie supérieure 36 forme une partie technique qui intègre l'organe distributeur et les autres éléments fonctionnels décrits précédemment. La partie inférieure 37 intègre ici les canalisations d'alimentation en eau et en air 7, T. Cette partie inférieure 37 peut être comblée par tout médium approprié (par exemple des écorces, des « chips » de polystyrène ou autres).To improve safety, it will be noted that means, in the form of a switch, can be provided capable of ensuring the interruption of the power supply as soon as the lid element 17 is opened. FIG. variant embodiment in which the housing 3, fixed on the base structure 5, comprises an upper portion 36 and a lower portion 37 separated by a removable bottom wall 18 in the form of grating. The upper part 36 forms a technical part that integrates the dispenser member and the other functional elements described above. The lower part 37 here integrates the water and air supply lines 7, T. This lower part 37 can be filled by any appropriate medium (for example barks, polystyrene "chips" or other).
Les moyens de solidarisation de la logette 3 avec la structure de piètement 5 peuvent être identiques à ceux décrits précédemment en relation avec les figures 9 et 10.The means for securing the housing 3 with the base structure 5 may be identical to those described above in connection with FIGS. 9 and 10.
On notera d'autre part que la structure de piètement 5 peut aussi constituer le support d'une logette 3 de n'importe quelle dimension, et en particulier de n'importe quelle profondeur. A titre d'exemple, la figure 12 montre une variante de réalisation de ce type, dans laquelle la structure de piètement 5 est solidarisée avec une logette 3 dont les dimensions sont supérieures à celles des logettes décrites précédemment, en particulier en terme de profondeur.Note also that the base structure 5 can also be the support of a box 3 of any size, and in particular of any depth. For example, Figure 12 shows an alternative embodiment of this type, wherein the base structure 5 is secured to a housing 3 whose dimensions are greater than those of the boxes described above, particularly in terms of depth.
Ici encore, les moyens de solidarisation de la logette avec la structure de piètement peuvent être identiques à ceux décrits en relation avec les figures 9 et 10.Again, the means for securing the housing with the base structure may be identical to those described in relation to Figures 9 and 10.
D'autre part, bien entendu, si l'évolution des canons à neige permet leur mise en fonctionnement à partir uniquement d'une conduite d'alimentation en eau, la conduite d'alimentation en air pourra être supprimée, sans que cela change le principe de structure d'installation tel que décrit ci-dessus. On the other hand, of course, if the evolution of the snow cannons allows their operation from only a water supply line, the air supply line can be removed without this changing the installation structure principle as described above.

Claims

- REVENDICATIONS - - CLAIMS -
1.- Installation d'enneigement comprenant au moins un canon à neige (6) connecté à un réseau d'alimentation en eau, et éventuellement en air, lequel canon à neige (6) est monté sur une structure de piètement (5) enterrée et lequel canon à neige (6) est associé à une logette (3) enterrée au-dessus d'une portion (7, 7') dudit réseau d'alimentation, laquelle logette (3) comporte - une partie supérieure (15) munie d'un trou d'homme (16) obturable par un couvercle (17), - une ceinture de parois latérales (14), et - une partie inférieure (18), laquelle logette (3) définit un volume interne (12) qui intègre un distributeur (9) de contrôle de l'alimentation en eau, et le cas échéant en air, dudit canon à neige (6) associé, et laquelle logette (3) comporte encore au moins un passage (20, 21 ) pour l'entrée des conduites (8, 8') d'eau et le cas échéant d'air qui alimentent ledit distributeur (9) et pour la sortie des conduites (1 1 , 1 1 ') d'eau et le cas échéant d'air provenant dudit distributeur (9) et alimentant ledit canon à neige (6), caractérisée en ce que ledit distributeur (9) est placé dans le volume interne (12) de la logette (3), cela à une profondeur telle qu'un opérateur (13) puisse y avoir accès en vue d'une intervention de pose, de maintenance ou de contrôle, sans que son corps soit totalement confiné au sein dudit volume interne (12) de ladite logette (3), cette dernière comprenant encore des moyens pour assurer le maintien hors-gel dudit organe distributeur (9), et en ce que ladite logette (3) comporte des moyens (4) qui permettent sa solidarisation avec ladite structure de piètement (5) du canon (6), cette structure de piètement (5) étant ancrée au sol et située à l'extérieur du volume interne (12) de ladite logette (3) et servant de structure support à ladite logette (3).1.- Installation of snow including at least one snow gun (6) connected to a water supply network, and possibly air, which snow gun (6) is mounted on a base structure (5) buried and which snow cannon (6) is associated with a housing (3) buried above a portion (7, 7 ') of said supply network, which housing (3) comprises - an upper part (15) provided with a manhole (16) closable by a cover (17), - a belt of side walls (14), and - a lower part (18), which housing (3) defines an internal volume (12) which integrates a distributor (9) for controlling the supply of water, and possibly air, of said associated snow gun (6), and which housing (3) also comprises at least one passage (20, 21) for inlet of the pipes (8, 8 ') of water and, if appropriate, of air which supply said distributor (9) and for the outlet of the pipes (1 1, 1 1') of water and, if appropriate, of air from said distributor (9) and feeding said snow gun (6), characterized in that said distributor (9) is placed in the internal volume (12) of the housing (3), this to a depth such that a operator (13) can access it for a laying, maintenance or control intervention, without his body being totally confined within said internal volume (12) of said housing (3), the latter further comprising means for maintaining the freezing of said distributor member (9), and in that said housing (3) comprises means (4) which allow it to be secured to said base structure (5) of the barrel (6), this structure base (5) being anchored to the ground and located outside the internal volume (12) of said housing (3) and serving as support structure to said housing (3).
2.- Installation d'enneigement selon la revendication 1 , caractérisée en ce que le volume interne (12) de la logette (3) a une hauteur (h) maximale de 80 cm. 2. A snowmaking facility according to claim 1, characterized in that the internal volume (12) of the box (3) has a height (h) maximum of 80 cm.
3.- Installation d'enneigement selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 ou3. Snow-making installation according to any one of claims 1 or
2, caractérisée en ce que la partie supérieure (15) de la logette (3) vient à fleur de sol ou pratiquement à fleur de sol.2, characterized in that the upper portion (15) of the housing (3) is flush with the ground or substantially flush with the ground.
4.- Installation d'enneigement selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 3, caractérisée en ce que la logette (3) est constituée d'une paroi périphérique (14) munie d'un revêtement en matériau(x) isolant(s) thermique(s), dont la bordure supérieure (15) délimite le trou d'homme (16) obturable par le couvercle (17) également muni d'un revêtement en matériau(x) isolant(s) thermique(s).4. A snowmaking installation according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the housing (3) consists of a peripheral wall (14) provided with a coating of material (x) insulating (s) ) thermal (s), the upper edge (15) defines the manhole (16) closable by the cover (17) also provided with a coating of material (s) insulating (s) thermal (s).
5.- Installation d'enneigement selon la revendication 4, caractérisée en ce que la paroi périphérique (14) de la logette (3) est constituée d'une coque en matériau plastique équipée d'un revêtement isolant, laquelle paroi périphérique (14) est associée à un couvercle articulé (17) réalisé en métal ou en matière plastique, équipé d'un revêtement isolant.5.- snowmaking installation according to claim 4, characterized in that the peripheral wall (14) of the housing (3) consists of a shell of plastic material equipped with an insulating coating, which peripheral wall (14) is associated with an articulated lid (17) made of metal or plastic, equipped with an insulating coating.
6.- Installation d'enneigement selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 5, caractérisée en ce que la logette (3) intègre des moyens de chauffage (32) pour maintenir son volume interne (12) hors-gel.6. A snowmaking facility according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the housing (3) incorporates heating means (32) to maintain its internal volume (12) frost.
7.- Installation d'enneigement selon la revendication 6, caractérisée en ce que les moyens de chauffage de la logette (3) sont de type caloduc (32) ayant une forme générale allongée, positionné verticalement avec l'une de ses extrémités intégrée en profondeur, et avec son autre extrémité débouchant dans le volume interne (12) de ladite logette (3), à proximité du distributeur (9) et de préférence en contact physique avec ce dernier ou avec son support (25).7.- snowmaking installation according to claim 6, characterized in that the heating means of the housing (3) are heat pipe type (32) having a generally elongate shape, positioned vertically with one of its ends integrated into depth, and with its other end opening into the internal volume (12) of said housing (3), near the distributor (9) and preferably in physical contact with the latter or with its support (25).
8.- Installation d'enneigement selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 7, caractérisée en ce que la partie inférieure (18) de la logette (3) est adaptée pour que le flux géothermique provenant du sol pénètre dans son volume interne (12) cela de manière à préserver ce dernier hors-gel.8. Snow-making plant according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the lower part (18) of the box (3) is adapted so that the geothermal flow from the ground penetrates into its internal volume ( 12) so as to preserve the latter frost protection.
9.- Installation d'enneigement selon la revendication 8, caractérisée en ce que la partie inférieure de la logette (3) est constituée par le sol ou par un remblai rapporté.9.- snowmaking installation according to claim 8, characterized in that the lower part of the box (3) is constituted by the ground or by an embankment reported.
10.- Installation d'enneigement selon la revendication 8, caractérisée en ce que la partie inférieure de la logette (3) comporte une paroi de fond (18) perméable aux flux thermiques, par exemple en forme générale de caillebotis ou de structure géotextile, cela en particulier pour autoriser l'entrée du flux géothermique au sein du volume interne (12) de ladite logette (3).10. A snowmaking facility according to claim 8, characterized in that the lower portion of the housing (3) comprises a bottom wall (18) permeable to heat flows, for example in the general form of grating or geotextile structure, this in particular to allow the entry of the geothermal flow within the internal volume (12) of said housing (3).
1 1 .- Installation d'enneigement selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à1 1 .- Installation of snow according to any one of claims 1 to
10, caractérisée en ce que la logette (3) comprend un tenon supérieur (33) apte à s'emboîter dans une ouverture appropriée (34) ménagée dans la partie supérieure du piètement (5) pour assurer la solidarisation entre ladite logette (3) et ledit piètement (15).10, characterized in that the housing (3) comprises an upper pin (33) adapted to fit into a suitable opening (34) formed in the upper part of the base (5) to ensure the connection between said housing (3) and said base (15).
12.- Installation d'enneigement selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à12.- snowmaking installation according to any one of claims 1 to
1 1 , caractérisée en ce que la structure de piètement (5) du canon à neige (6) comporte un élément en porte-à-faux (25) formant support pour le distributeur (9), ledit élément support (25) venant se placer au sein du volume interne (12) de la logette (3) par l'intermédiaire d'une ouverture (21 ) ménagée dans cette dernière.1 1, characterized in that the base structure (5) of the snow gun (6) comprises a cantilever element (25) forming a support for the distributor (9), said support member (25) coming from placed within the internal volume (12) of the housing (3) via an opening (21) formed in the latter.
13.- Installation d'enneigement selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 1 ou 12, caractérisée en ce que la structure de piètement (5) se présente sous la forme d'une colonne creuse (22) délimitant un logement central axial (24) qui est destiné à recevoir, sur au moins une partie de sa hauteur, une portion des conduites (1 1 , 1 1 ') d'eau et le cas échéant d'air, qui alimentent le canon à neige (6) associé, laquelle colonne creuse (22) et laquelle logette (3) associée comportent des ouvertures en regard (20, 26) permettant la sortie desdites conduites (1 1 , 1 1 ') partant du distributeur (9) et s'étendant jusqu'au canon à neige (6).13.- snowmaking installation according to any one of claims 1 1 or 12, characterized in that the base structure (5) is in the form of a hollow column (22) defining an axial central housing (24). ) which is intended for receiving, over at least part of its height, a portion of the pipes (1 1, 1 1 ') of water and possibly air, which feed the associated snow gun (6), which hollow column (22 ) and which housing (3) associated associated openings (20, 26) for the output of said pipes (1 1, 1 1 ') from the distributor (9) and extending to the snow cannon (6) .
14.- Installation d'enneigement selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 1 à 13, caractérisée en ce que la structure de piètement (5) est munie au niveau de son extrémité inférieure (5a) de plusieurs panneaux radiants (27), s'étendant sensiblement dans un même plan horizontal, pour optimiser sa fixation et son maintien dans le sol. 14.- snowmaking installation according to any one of claims 1 1 to 13, characterized in that the base structure (5) is provided at its lower end (5a) of several radiant panels (27), s extending substantially in the same horizontal plane, to optimize its fixation and its maintenance in the ground.
15.- Logette pour une installation d'enneigement selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 14.15.- Log for a snowmaking installation according to any one of claims 1 to 14.
16.- Procédé d'implantation d'une installation d'enneigement selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 14 consistant :16. A method of implantation of a snowmaking installation according to any one of claims 1 to 14 consisting of:
- à creuser une fouille dans le sol à proximité du réseau principal d'alimentation en eau et en air, la profondeur de cette fouille correspondant sensiblement à la hauteur de la structure de piètement (5) du canon à neige (6),excavating a dig in the ground close to the main water supply and air network, the depth of this excavation substantially corresponding to the height of the base structure (5) of the snow cannon (6),
- à poser la structure de piètement (5) dans la fouille de sorte que sa partie supérieure (5a) se situe dans le plan ou sensiblement dans le plan de la surface du sol S environnant, - à rapporter les extrémités libres des conduites secondaires (8, 8') d'alimentation en eau et en air au niveau du piètement (5),placing the base structure (5) in the excavation so that its upper part (5a) lies in the plane or substantially in the plane of the surface of the surrounding soil S, - reporting the free ends of the secondary pipes ( 8, 8 ') for supplying water and air at the base (5),
- à couler un remblai dans la fouille jusqu'au niveau de positionnement de la logette (3),- to sink an embankment in the excavation to the position of the stall (3),
- à fixer la logette (3) sur le piètement (5), - à remplir la fouille par le remblai final jusqu'à l'extrémité supérieure (5a) dudit piètement (5) et la bordure supérieure (15) de ladite logette (3), et- to fix the stall (3) on the base (5), - to fill the excavation by the final embankment up to the upper end (5a) of said base (5) and the upper rim (15) of said stall ( 3), and
- à mettre en place le canon à neige (6) sur l'extrémité supérieure (5a) du piètement (5).- To set up the snow gun (6) on the upper end (5a) of the base (5).
17.- Procédé d'implantation d'une installation d'enneigement selon la revendication 12 consistant :17. A method of implantation of a snowmaking installation according to claim 12 consisting of:
- à creuser une fouille dans le sol à proximité du réseau principal d'alimentation en eau et en air, la profondeur de cette fouille correspondant sensiblement à la hauteur de la structure de piètement (5) du canon à neige (6), - à poser la structure de piètement (5) dans la fouille de sorte que sa partie supérieure (5a) se situe dans le plan ou sensiblement dans le plan de la surface du sol S environnant,excavating a dig in the ground close to the main water supply and air network, the depth of this excavation substantially corresponding to the height of the base structure (5) of the snow cannon (6), placing the base structure (5) in the excavation so that its upper part (5a) lies in the plane or substantially in the plane of the surface of the surrounding soil S,
- à rapporter les extrémités libres des conduites secondaires (8, 8') d'alimentation en eau et en air au niveau du piètement (5) et à les fixer sur son élément support (25) par l'intermédiaire de raccords adaptés,- to report the free ends of the secondary lines (8, 8 ') of water supply and air at the base (5) and to fix them on its support element (25) by means of suitable connections,
- à couler un remblai dans la fouille jusque légèrement sous le niveau dudit élément support (25),pouring an embankment into the excavation until slightly below the level of said support element (25),
- à fixer la logette (3) sur le piètement (5) en intégrant ledit élément support (25) dans son volume interne (12) par passage dans la réservation (21 ) de ladite logette (3),- fixing the housing (3) on the base (5) by integrating said support member (25) in its internal volume (12) by passing through the reservation (21) of said housing (3),
- à remplir la fouille par le remblai final jusqu'à l'extrémité supérieure (5a) dudit piètement (5) et la bordure supérieure (15) de ladite logette (3), etcompleting the excavation by the final embankment up to the upper end (5a) of said base (5) and the upper edge (15) of said stall (3), and
- à mettre en place le canon à neige (6) sur l'extrémité supérieure (5a) du piètement (5). - To set up the snow gun (6) on the upper end (5a) of the base (5).
PCT/FR2008/050656 2007-04-13 2008-04-11 Snow coverage installation and housing for such an installation WO2008145887A2 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR0702701 2007-04-13
FR0702701A FR2914989B1 (en) 2007-04-13 2007-04-13 SNOW PLANT AND STACK FOR SUCH INSTALLATION.

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WO2008145887A3 WO2008145887A3 (en) 2009-02-12

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EP0160119A1 (en) * 1984-04-19 1985-11-06 Tropeano, JosephC. Method and apparatus for producing snow at marginal ambient temperatures and eliminating compressed air line freeze-up and oil contamination
FR2573854A1 (en) * 1984-11-27 1986-05-30 York Froid Ind IMPROVEMENT TO SNOW CANON FEEDING DEVICES IN ARTIFICIAL SLIDING SKI SLIDING FACILITIES
FR2623276A1 (en) * 1987-11-12 1989-05-19 York Froid Ind Protective housing for an automatic snow-making installation
JPH02229411A (en) * 1989-03-01 1990-09-12 Tohoku Electric Power Co Inc Pole transformer with built-in heat pipe and preventing it from being covered with snow
EP0451808A1 (en) * 1990-04-10 1991-10-16 Bellutti, Arthur Method for compacting, in particular a snow layer on a slope and device therefor
EP0479641A1 (en) * 1990-10-03 1992-04-08 York France S.A. Shelter for automatic snow-making systems
DE4211576A1 (en) * 1991-07-06 1993-01-07 Poehlmann Anwendungstechnik Gm Heating system using heat pump and ground probe - uses heat provided by probe transferred to refrigeration medium via evaporator heat exchanger
FR2743872A1 (en) * 1996-01-22 1997-07-25 York Neige Water spray nozzle support, e.g. for use in making artificial snow
AT1930U1 (en) * 1997-03-13 1998-01-26 Sufag Sport Freizeitanlagen DEVICE FOR CONNECTING DEVICES FOR PRODUCING ARTIFICIAL SNOW
US5749517A (en) * 1995-09-27 1998-05-12 Dupre; Herman K. Control system for snow making devices
JPH11108517A (en) * 1997-10-08 1999-04-23 Marubeni Setsubi Kk Containable snowing system
US6029898A (en) * 1998-09-16 2000-02-29 Dupre; Herman K. Snow making tower and method of manufacture
US6231313B1 (en) * 1997-01-31 2001-05-15 Tanner Systems, Inc. De-icing system

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* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3372872A (en) * 1966-07-26 1968-03-12 George F. Le Bus Artificial snow production
EP0160119A1 (en) * 1984-04-19 1985-11-06 Tropeano, JosephC. Method and apparatus for producing snow at marginal ambient temperatures and eliminating compressed air line freeze-up and oil contamination
FR2573854A1 (en) * 1984-11-27 1986-05-30 York Froid Ind IMPROVEMENT TO SNOW CANON FEEDING DEVICES IN ARTIFICIAL SLIDING SKI SLIDING FACILITIES
FR2623276A1 (en) * 1987-11-12 1989-05-19 York Froid Ind Protective housing for an automatic snow-making installation
JPH02229411A (en) * 1989-03-01 1990-09-12 Tohoku Electric Power Co Inc Pole transformer with built-in heat pipe and preventing it from being covered with snow
EP0451808A1 (en) * 1990-04-10 1991-10-16 Bellutti, Arthur Method for compacting, in particular a snow layer on a slope and device therefor
EP0479641A1 (en) * 1990-10-03 1992-04-08 York France S.A. Shelter for automatic snow-making systems
DE4211576A1 (en) * 1991-07-06 1993-01-07 Poehlmann Anwendungstechnik Gm Heating system using heat pump and ground probe - uses heat provided by probe transferred to refrigeration medium via evaporator heat exchanger
US5749517A (en) * 1995-09-27 1998-05-12 Dupre; Herman K. Control system for snow making devices
FR2743872A1 (en) * 1996-01-22 1997-07-25 York Neige Water spray nozzle support, e.g. for use in making artificial snow
US6231313B1 (en) * 1997-01-31 2001-05-15 Tanner Systems, Inc. De-icing system
AT1930U1 (en) * 1997-03-13 1998-01-26 Sufag Sport Freizeitanlagen DEVICE FOR CONNECTING DEVICES FOR PRODUCING ARTIFICIAL SNOW
JPH11108517A (en) * 1997-10-08 1999-04-23 Marubeni Setsubi Kk Containable snowing system
US6029898A (en) * 1998-09-16 2000-02-29 Dupre; Herman K. Snow making tower and method of manufacture

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FR2914989B1 (en) 2009-07-24
WO2008145887A3 (en) 2009-02-12
FR2914989A1 (en) 2008-10-17

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