DEVICE FOR FIXING A SOLAR PANEL TO A FRAME, ASSOCIATED FIXING ASSEMBLY AND MANUFACTURING METHOD

Abstract

- Device for fixing a solar panel to a frame, fixing assembly and method of embodiment - The invention relates to a device for fixing (1) a solar panel to a roof-type frame, said fixing device (1) being intended, on the one hand, to be secured to said frame by a substantially flexible connecting strip (2), and on the other hand, to receive said panel, characterized in that it comprises at least one profile (6) forming a first jaw (13) and a second jaw (14), said profile (6) being designed to be deformed in the region of said jaws (13, 14) in order to wedge said connecting strip (2) between said jaws (13, 14). - Fixing a solar panel to a roof.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to the fixing of solar panels on a frame, and in particular the fixing of a solar panel on a roof using a flexible intermediate connecting strip.

[0002] The present invention relates more specifically to a device for fixing a solar panel to a roof-type frame, said fixing device being intended on the one hand to be secured to said frame by a substantially flexible connecting strip, and on the other hand to receive said panel.

[0003] The present invention also relates to a fixing assembly for a solar panel to a roof-type frame.

[0004] The present invention further relates to a method for implementing a fixing assembly for a solar panel to a roof-type structure, said method comprising at least: a step of supplying a substantially flexible connecting strip designed to be connected to said frame, and a step of supplying a fixing device intended on the one hand to be secured to said frame by the substantially flexible connecting strip, and on the other hand to receive said panel.

[0005] It is well known to position a solar panel on a building, and in particular a roof, so that this panel captures the sun's rays and converts them into electricity or heat.

[0006] This well-known solar panel generally comprises a plate forming a solar collector and a frame surrounding the plate to support it and ensure the panel has some mechanical strength.

[0007] It is well known that various fastening elements are used to secure a solar panel to a roof. These known fastening elements include a support element designed to hold the solar panel frame and be attached to it, and a strip connecting the roof—that is, a roofing element such as a waterproof membrane—to the support element. The strip is designed to be attached to the roof on one side and to the support element on the other, thereby connecting the support element to the roof and also securing the frame, and by extension the entire solar panel, to the roof.

[0008] The support element is, in a known manner, connected to the strip via a system of screws and bolts and washers adapted to the screws. Each screw passes successively through a respective washer, the connecting strip, the support element and a respective bolt, to clamp the support element and the connecting strip against each other between the respective bolt and washer, by means of the tightening of the respective screw and bolt.

[0009] A similar configuration is also known where the washers are replaced by a plate serving the same function. Screws pass through the plate to clamp the strip against the support element, with the screws also being associated with their respective bolts for tightening.

[0010] However, these fastening systems are not entirely satisfactory in terms of industrialization. To produce these known fastening systems, it is necessary to drill a large number of different components and precisely position them opposite each other to align the perforations for the screws, which must then be tightened with the bolt. These operations are relatively lengthy and complicated, especially since high precision is required, particularly regarding the alignment of the perforations and the tightening of each screw with its respective bolt.

[0011] Implementing these known fixing systems can lead to significant difficulties and delays, particularly when the perforations are not correctly made or positioned. These systems also present a risk of the support element and the connecting strip becoming detached, especially when the screws are not properly tightened with their respective bolts. This, in turn, leads to a risk of the solar panel detaching from the roof, and consequently, a risk of the solar collector plate malfunctioning, failing to provide energy, or even being damaged.Furthermore, even when the holes are drilled correctly and the screws are properly tightened with their respective bolts, assembling these numerous different components with the mounting bracket and connecting strip can be particularly time-consuming, resulting in a slow production rate, especially for the assembly of the mounting bracket and connecting strip. Moreover, when the solar panel and the strip attached to it via the mounting bracket are subjected to strong tension, such as from high winds, the strip tends to tear at the screw points and detach from the mounting bracket, effectively separating the solar panel from the roof, with the aforementioned negative consequences. Finally, the screws, their bolts, and associated washers corrode over time, compromising their long-term reliability.

[0012] The objects assigned to the present invention are therefore aimed at remedying the various disadvantages listed above and proposing a new fixing device, the design of which allows a solar panel to be fixed to a roof-type structure in a simple, quick and durable manner.

[0013] Another object of the invention is to propose a new fastening device with good compactness.

[0014] Another object of the invention aims to provide a new fastening device whose design allows it to be particularly resistant, especially against external conditions, such as strong winds or rain.

[0015] Another object of the invention is to propose a new fastening device exhibiting high reliability over time, and which requires no special maintenance or only minimal maintenance.

[0016] Another object of the invention aims to propose a new fixing device whose design allows it to ensure a particularly robust attachment of a solar panel to a roof-type structure, regardless of external conditions, such as strong wind or rain.

[0017] Another object of the invention is to propose a new fastening device whose design gives it a relative lightness.

[0018] Another object of the invention is to propose a new fastening device which is easy to manufacture and cost-effective.

[0019] Another object of the invention is to propose a new fastening device whose design minimizes the risk of error in association with a connecting strip.

[0020] Another object of the invention is to propose a new fastening device whose structure is simple and comprises only a limited number of separate parts.

[0021] Another object of the invention aims to propose a new fastening device whose design reduces the risk of it corroding in a way that impacts its function.

[0022] Another object of the invention aims to propose a new fastening device whose design allows it to be attached very quickly, easily and durably to a connecting strip.

[0023] Another object of the invention aims to provide a new fixing assembly which allows the attachment of a solar panel to a roof-type structure in a particularly practical, robust and quick manner.

[0024] Another object of the invention aims to provide a new fixing assembly whose design allows it to be attached to a frame without damaging the latter.

[0025] Another object of the invention aims to propose a new method for making a fixing assembly for a solar panel to a roof-type structure, said method comprising only a limited number of simple, quick and easy steps to implement, while allowing the supply of a fixing assembly with excellent reliability.

[0026] The objects assigned to the present invention are achieved by means of a device for fixing a solar panel to a roof-type frame, said fixing device being intended on the one hand to be secured to said frame by a substantially flexible connecting strip, and on the other hand to receive said panel, characterized in that it comprises at least one profile forming a first jaw and a second jaw, said profile being designed to be deformed in the region of said jaws in order to wedge said connecting strip between said jaws.

[0027] The objects assigned to the present invention are also achieved using a solar panel fixing assembly to a roof-type frame, characterized in that it comprises a fixing device as above, and a substantially flexible connecting strip designed to be connected on the one hand to said frame and on the other hand to said fixing device, in order to secure the latter to said frame.

[0028] The objects assigned to the present invention are further achieved by means of a method for implementing a mounting assembly for a solar panel to a roof-type structure, said method comprising at least: a step of supplying a substantially flexible connecting strip designed to be connected to said frame, a step of supplying a fixing device intended, on the one hand, to be secured to said frame by the substantially flexible connecting strip, and on the other hand, to receive said panel, characterized in that the fastening device comprises at least one profile forming a first jaw and a second jaw, and in that it includes a step of deforming said profile in the region of said jaws in order to wedge said connecting strip between said jaws.

[0029] Other objects and advantages of the invention will become apparent in more detail upon reading the following description, and with the aid of the accompanying figures provided for purely explanatory and non-limiting purposes, in which: There figure 1 This illustrates, in perspective view, an embodiment of the fastening device and fastening assembly according to the invention, with two profiles each connected to a respective connecting strip and joined by a spacer. figure 2 illustrates, from a perspective view, a detail of the fastening device of the figure 1, representing in particular a profile and a connecting strip attached to it. The figure 3 illustrates, from a side view, part of a fastening device that may conform to that of the Figures 1 And 2 where two jaws grip a connecting strip, also partially illustrated, to the point of deforming it. figures 4 to 7 illustrate, from a side view, a fastening device and an associated connecting strip, as well as a press in different configurations, thus representing different stages of a process for manufacturing a fastening assembly according to the invention. More specifically, the figure 4 illustrates the fastening device alone, before its combination with a connecting strip and a press. figure 8illustrates, in perspective view, a fastening assembly comprising a fastening device and an associated connecting strip, as well as a press equipped with punches, after a pressing step and a punching step, according to an example of an embodiment of the invention. figure 9 illustrates, according to a side view, a lower part of a fastening assembly comprising a fastening device and an associated connecting strip, as well as a press and punches, after a pressing step and before a punching step, according to an example of an embodiment according to the invention.

[0030] The invention relates, according to a first aspect illustrated in the figures, to a device for fixing 1 a solar panel (not illustrated) to a frame (not illustrated) of the roof type.

[0031] Thus, the fixing device 1 is advantageously intended to attach, that is to say to secure, preferably in a reversible manner, the solar panel to said building.

[0032] Preferably, a roof-type structure is primarily formed by a roof, in particular the upper surface or wall of a building, especially an upper wall or surface made of materials covering said building and protecting it against the weather.

[0033] The structure in question is therefore preferably formed by a roof, for example, the roof of a house, a commercial or industrial building, or even a parking lot. In any case, the structure is advantageously intended to provide some protection, preferably watertight, to a structure located beneath it, and in particular a building, said protection being designed, for example, to protect the structure from the elements. The structure, in particular formed by a roof, preferably extends in a locally or even globally flat manner, at least in the area where the solar panel is attached to said structure. Preferably, the structure is a roof having an inclination, relative to the horizontal, of between 0 and 45°, preferably between 0 and 20°, more preferably between 0 and 10°, and even more preferably between 0 and 2°, or zero.

[0034] Preferably, the building structure consists of a waterproofed roof, for example, a roof comprising at least one flexible membrane, which thus provides waterproofing for said roof (advantageously in combination with other similar flexible membranes). This flexible membrane is preferably primarily composed of a material selected from the group comprising bitumen, elastomers including ethylene-propylene-diene monomer rubber (EPDM), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polyolefins including thermoplastic polyolefins (TPO) and flexible polyolefins (FPO). Naturally, the flexible membrane is preferably bonded to the rest of the building structure.

[0035] Advantageously, the solar panel and the fixing device are intended to be positioned on the flexible membrane of the frame, and secured to it.

[0036] Preferably, the solar panel comprises a plate forming a solar collector, said solar collector advantageously capturing sunlight to provide electricity or heat. For example, the plate forms a thermal solar collector designed to capture heat from solar radiation and transfer it to a heat transfer fluid, preferably intended for heating a building and / or producing hot water, or the plate forms a photovoltaic solar collector (or photovoltaic module) designed to convert solar radiation into electricity. Alternatively, the plate forms a hybrid solar collector that is both photovoltaic and thermal. Preferably, said plate is substantially flat and has an outer surface intended to face outwards, i.e., towards the sun or to receive sunlight, and an inner surface opposite and parallel to said outer surface.The said inner surface is preferably oriented towards the building. Preferably, the said plate comprises several edges which delimit it, for example it comprises four edges, and is generally rectangular or square in shape.

[0037] Preferably, the solar panel also includes a frame attached to the plate and surrounding it wholly or partially. The frame is advantageously substantially rigid and thus ensures, in particular, the mechanical stability of the plate, preventing it, for example, from deforming and deteriorating. The frame specifically prevents the plate from bending due to wind or handling of the solar panel during its installation on the frame via the mounting device 1. Preferably, the frame is generally rectangular or square in shape.

[0038] According to the invention, the fastening device 1 is intended, on the one hand, to be secured to the frame by means of a substantially flexible connecting strip 2, and on the other hand, to receive the panel. In other words, the fastening device 1 is advantageously designed to hold the panel onto the frame by means of the connecting strip 2, which is preferably intended to be fixed directly to the frame. Thus, advantageously, the fastening device 1 supports the panel and secures it to the connecting strip 2, which is itself fixed to the frame.

[0039] Advantageously, the fastening device 1 is intended to be first connected to the connecting strip 2, for example in a workshop or factory, or near the frame, and then to the solar panel. Preferably, after connecting the connecting strip 2 to the fastening device 1 and before connecting the fastening device 1 to the frame, the connecting strip 2 is attached to the frame, preferably irreversibly, for example by welding, and more specifically by heat welding.

[0040] The said connecting strip 2 is thus advantageously attached directly to the roof-type structure, and more particularly to the flexible membrane which is advantageously waterproof.

[0041] Preferably, said connecting strip 2 is primarily made of a material selected from the group comprising bitumen, elastomers including ethylene-propylene-diene monomer rubber (EPDM), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polyolefins including thermoplastic polyolefins (TPO) and flexible polyolefins (FPO). The connecting strip 2 is preferably made of a substantially flexible material, and can thus adapt to different types of structures, and in particular different types of roofs. Preferably, said connecting strip 2 nevertheless has dimensions, and in particular a thickness, sufficient to guarantee a certain mechanical strength, with a minimum force optionally required to deform the connecting strip 2 significantly.Advantageously, the connecting strip 2 is designed to be placed on the flexible membrane of the frame and attached to it, notably by heat welding, which is all the easier if said connecting strip 2 is even more advantageously made of a material similar or identical to that forming said flexible membrane. Such a configuration notably increases the pull-out resistance of the connecting strip, and therefore of the fixing device 1 and the solar panel, vis-à-vis the flexible membrane, and thus the frame.

[0042] The connecting strip 2 has, for example, before being attached to the fixing device 1, a general rectangular or square shape, and a thickness between 1 and 10 mm, more preferably between 1.2 and 5 mm, even more preferably between 1.8 and 3.5 mm.

[0043] According to the preferred embodiment illustrated in the figures, the fastening device 1 advantageously includes a means 3 for attaching the solar panel, and more specifically the frame. The fastening means 3 includes, for example, at least one, preferably at least two substantially straight and parallel grooves 4, 5. Each groove 4, 5 is, for example, intended to receive at least one first nut for receiving a screw. The screw, once connected to the first nut, is itself designed to pass through a mounting plate and to press the latter against the outer edges of the groove 4, 5. The mounting plate is itself designed to press and clamp, when connected to the first screw, an edge of the solar panel, and more specifically the frame, against the outer edges of the groove 4, 5.Advantageously, the fastening device 1 comprises, for each groove 4, 5, two nut / screw / mounting plate assemblies mentioned above, separately associated on either side of the solar panel to hold it against the profile 6 (and more specifically against the upper portion, which will be described below). Each groove 4, 5 comprises, for example, a narrow upper portion and a wide lower portion, while the screw and nut are respectively intended to be matched with said narrow upper and wide lower portions, in particular by sliding the nut in the groove 4, 5 in question, so that said nut is prevented from coming out of said wide lower portion by said narrow upper portion, said screw associated with said nut thus also being prevented from coming out of said groove 4, 5.Optionally, the screw, nut, and mounting plate are then prevented from moving along the groove by means of a suitable locking device; otherwise, clamping the mounting plate against the outer edges of the groove 4, 5 may be sufficient to secure the solar panel. Naturally, each groove 4, 5 is preferably designed to be positioned opposite the frame, and therefore on the opposite side of the structure from the rest of the mounting device 1.

[0044] According to one feature of the invention, as illustrated in the figures, the fastening device 1 comprises at least one profile 6. Preferably, the profile 6 forms the greater part of the fastening device 1, or even almost all or all of it, except for example a part of the attachment means 3, such as the screw and nut mentioned above.

[0045] For example, the profile 6 includes an upper portion 15 intended to receive the solar panel, that is to say preferably the solar panel itself and / or any part necessary for tilting the panel and / or fixing the latter to said upper portion 15. Said attachment means 3 forms, for example, in part or in whole the upper portion 15. Said attachment means 3 is preferably at least partly made of the same material as the rest of said profile 6. Said upper portion 15 has, for example, a general U or horseshoe shape, each end of the U or horseshoe shape forming within it one of the respective grooves 4, 5.

[0046] Preferably, said profile 6 is a metallurgical or plastic product (in particular made of polymers), having a defined and constant profile. Advantageously, said profile 6 is therefore mainly formed of a metallic material, preferably aluminum and / or steel, or of a plastic material, preferably high-density polyethylene (HDPE).

[0047] Advantageously, the profile 6 is formed in one piece, that is to say, in one piece, and is more preferably monolithic, or alternatively formed of several pieces fixedly connected together, for example by welding.

[0048] For example, profile 6 is mainly, or even entirely, formed by a substantially elongated plate of substantially constant cross-section.

[0049] According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the profile 6 includes a support part 7 which is advantageously substantially flat and intended to bear on the frame directly or indirectly via the connecting strip 2. Said support part 7 is preferably not directly connected as such to the frame or to the connecting strip 2, but rests on it so as to support at least part of the weight of the fixing device 1 and by extension the weight of the solar panel.

[0050] According to the same embodiment shown in the figures, the profile 6 preferably comprises a lower portion 16 having a bearing surface 8 intended to be in direct contact with the frame or the connecting strip 2 when the fastening device 1 is fixed to said frame via the connecting strip 2. Thus, preferably, the lower portion 16 includes, in particular, the bearing portion 7, which itself comprises a portion or all of the bearing surface 8. Preferably, the latter is intended either to press at least a portion of the connecting strip 2 against said frame, or to be pressed directly against said frame. The bearing surface 8 is preferably substantially flat.

[0051] In summary, the profile 6 preferentially includes the upper portion 15 in contact with the solar panel and the lower portion 16 resting on the frame possibly via the connection strip 2.

[0052] According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the profile 6 advantageously further comprises an intermediate portion 9 connecting said upper portion 15 and said lower portion 16. More advantageously, said intermediate portion 9 itself comprises an oblique portion 10 rising obliquely from the lower portion 16, and a straight portion 11 descending substantially vertically and / or perpendicularly with respect to said support portion 7, from the upper portion 15. Even more preferably, said intermediate portion 9 also comprises a connecting portion 12 of the oblique portion 10 and the straight portion 11, said connecting portion 12 being, for example, designed to form a reinforcement of the profile 6.

[0053] According to the invention, as illustrated in the figures, the profile 6 forms a first jaw 13 and a second jaw 14. Thus, the profile 6 advantageously comprises said first and second jaws 13, 14, each forming a respective part of the profile 6. These two parts are designed to come together to grip, clamp, secure, and hold an object firmly and securely. Preferably, said second jaw 14 is formed from the same material as said first jaw 13. Therefore, said jaws 13, 14 are preferably formed from a single piece, that is to say, they are advantageously joined, and more advantageously, from a single unit, which is even more advantageously made of the same material and substantially monolithic.The said jaws 13, 14 are preferably formed of the same material, which is in particular a material similar or identical to that forming the rest of the profile 6, for example a metallic material such as aluminium and / or steel, or a plastic material such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE).

[0054] According to the invention, said profile 6 is designed to be deformed in the region of said jaws 13, 14 in order to wedge said connecting strip 2 between said jaws 13, 14. Thus, preferably, the profile 6 is intended to be deformed, at the level of said jaws 13, 14, for example at the level of said first jaw 13, so that said first and second jaws 13, 14 clamp said connecting strip 2. Preferably, at least one of the jaws 13, 14, for example the first jaw 13, is therefore intended to undergo deformation, in particular by the application of a pressure force in the direction of the other jaw 13, 14, for example the second jaw 14, so as to wedge (i.e. to trap or hold) said connecting strip 2 between them.

[0055] The profile 6 preferably comprises a joint portion 28 where the first and second jaws 13, 14 meet, i.e., become fixed to each other, the joint portion 28 thus being a common part of the jaws 13, 14. Advantageously, the profile 6 is designed to be deformed at one of the jaws 13, 14, at both jaws 13, 14 (each thus being deformed distinctly from the other) and / or at the joint portion 28. More advantageously, the profile 6 is designed to be deformed at least at the first jaw 13.

[0056] Preferably, as illustrated in the figures and particularly visible in figures 4 to 7said first and second jaws 13, 14 are designed to be pressed towards each other, for example by means of a press, in order to clamp said connecting strip 2 between them. Thus, at least one of the jaws 13, 14, for example the first jaw 13, is intended to be pressed, that is to say pushed, towards the other jaw 13, 14, for example the second jaw 14, so as to bring the jaws 13, 14 closer together, for example by bringing said first jaw 13 closer to said second jaw 14 by pressure, so as to wedge said connecting strip 2 between said jaws 13, 14.

[0057] The said connecting strip 2 therefore advantageously comprises an attachment part 17, intended to be attached, in particular by heat-welding, to the said frame, and a clamping part 18, intended to be clamped, that is to say tightened, held, imprisoned or wedged, between the said first and second jaws 13, 14. Optionally, the connecting strip 2 comprises a folded part positioned under the profile 6 between the latter and the frame, so that the profile 6 does not bear directly on the frame but indirectly via the connecting strip 2.

[0058] Advantageously, said profile 6 has a substantially hook-shaped section which forms said jaws 13, 14. Thus, the profile 6 advantageously has a substantially elongated shape, the cross-section of which has said hook shape, which can for example have a general shape of C, V or U, or even L, each jaw 13, 14 forming a respective half of the hook with a shape of C, V or U, or even L.

[0059] Preferably, said first and second jaws 13, 14 are made of material with at least part, and more preferably all, of the rest of the profile 6, for example with said support part 7, said intermediate portion 9, said oblique portion 10, and / or said upper portion 15.

[0060] Advantageously, the first and second jaws 13, 14 are designed to permanently secure said profile 6 to the connecting strip 2, i.e., it is relatively difficult to detach said profile from said strip 2.

[0061] Preferably, said jaws 13, 14 are designed to pass, by plastic deformation of the profile 6: from an open position, where they leave between them a space 19 sufficient to slide in a portion of said strip 2, preferably said clamping part 18, as illustrated in Figures 4 and 5 , to a closed position, where said jaws 13, 14 clamp said band 2, more precisely said portion of said band 2, and even more precisely said clamping part 18, to attach it thus to said profile 6, as illustrated in figures 1 to 3 , 6 and 7. Thus, in the closed position, the band 2 is advantageously securely and permanently held by said jaws 13, 14, without it being possible to easily release said band 2 without again deforming the profile 6, and more specifically at least one of said jaws 13, 14, for example plastically, that is to say irreversibly, by degrading the mechanical qualities of the profile 6 and / or of said jaw 13, 14 deformed again.

[0062] In other words, the said first and second jaws 13, 14 are preferably designed so that at least one of them is plastically deformed, that is to say irreversibly, by pressure by moving it towards the other, in order to clamp (and more precisely to clamp) the said connecting strip 2 between the said jaws 13, 14.

[0063] In the open position, the jaws 13, 14 are therefore advantageously relatively far apart from each other, in order to leave the space 19 large enough for the connecting strip 2 to be inserted into it, onto which the jaws 13, 14 are then closed, in the manner of a mouth, when the latter pass into the closed position.

[0064] Advantageously, the said first and second jaws 13, 14 in the open position leave between them the said space 19, as illustrated in the figure 4 and they are intended to be pressed, that is to say brought together, by means of a press 20, to pass into the closed position. For example, the connecting strip 2, and more precisely its clamping part 18, is inserted into said space 19, as illustrated in the figure 5The said press 20 is, for example, positioned above the said first jaw 13, opposite, with respect to the latter, the said second jaw 14, as illustrated in Figures 4 and 5 , before, during, or after the introduction of the connecting strip 2 into the space 19. For example, said first jaw 13 is then intended to be pressed by said press 20, in the direction of said second jaw 14, so as to close the space 19 in order to clamp, that is to say, to imprison, by pressure, and more precisely by friction, said connecting strip 2 between said jaws 13, 14, as illustrated in figures 6 and 7 .

[0065] Each jaw 13, 14 advantageously has a respective inner surface partially delimiting said space 19 and substantially oriented towards the other jaw 13, 14, and a respective outer surface on the back of the respective inner surface, that is to say, opposite to the latter and which does not delimit space 19. The outer surface of the second jaw 14 forms, for example, an extension of said bearing surface 8 and / or a part thereof. Thus, for example, said press 20 performs a movement so as to exert pressure, as illustrated by the arrow of the figure 6 and that of the figure 9 , on the " back"of the first jaw 13, that is to say on the external surface of the latter, the first jaw 13 subjected to the pressure then deforms preferably plastically (that is to say irreversibly), while approaching the second jaw 14, so as to clamp the connecting strip 2, previously placed in said space 19, between the respective internal surfaces of said jaws 13, 14. The jaws 13, 14 are therefore advantageously designed to hold the connecting strip 2 in place, between their respective internal surfaces, by means of friction forces between the jaws 13, 14 (more precisely between their respective internal surfaces) and the connecting strip 2. Said friction forces are in particular created by the clamping or bringing together of the jaws 13, 14 to trap said strip 2 between them (and more precisely the clamping part 18).

[0066] Optionally, the profile 6, and more specifically at least one of said jaws 13, 14, for example the first jaw 13, is designed to undergo at least one punching 27 using punches 26 which are either integral with the press 20, as illustrated in the figure 8 , or distinct from the latter, as illustrated in the figure 9 Thus, the punches 26 are advantageously positioned below the press 20 and pressed against the profile 6 by the latter in order to deform it, so as to: as described previously, move said jaws 13, 14 from the open position to the closed position, where said jaws 13, 14 enclose the connecting strip 2, and / or make punctures or point deformations 27 or punchings 27 of the profile 6 and more specifically of one of said jaws 13, 14, for example said first jaw 13, as well as possibly of the connecting strip 2, in order to wedge said connecting strip 2 between said jaws 13, 14.

[0067] The punches 26 are therefore preferentially intended to be placed under the press 20 to come into contact with the " backor external surface of the first jaw 13, either to press the latter towards said second jaw 14, or to puncture or deform said first jaw 13 at specific points, for example in a limited area surrounding a central point, towards said second jaw 14, or to perform both actions successively or simultaneously. In other words, the punches 26 preferentially perform punching operations 27 on the profile 6 in the region of said jaws 13, 14, possibly also punching the strip 2, to complete the clamping of the latter between said jaws 13, 14.

[0068] For example, as illustrated in figures 8 and 9 , the profile 6 (and more precisely the said first jaw 13) is deformed by the press 20 alone ( figure 9 ) or the press 20 equipped with punches 26 ( figure 8), thus clamping the strip 2 between said jaws 13, 14, then the profile 6 (and more precisely said first jaw 13), and possibly the strip 2 is / are punctured or deformed at specific points (i.e., punched) by said punches 26 in order to better secure said strip 2 to said jaws 13, 14, and more generally to said profile 6. When the punches 26 are separate from the press 20, they can, for example, be arranged as illustrated in the figure 9 , At " back » or external surface of the first jaw 13 before being pressed against the latter in the direction of the second jaw 14 by said press 20, thus advantageously producing said perforations or point deformations 27 (or punchings 27) in said first jaw 13.

[0069] Advantageously, the punctures or point deformations 27, or punchings 27, of the profile 6, made by the punches 26, make it possible to increase even more the friction forces between the jaws 13, 14 and the connecting strip 2, and therefore the holding of the latter by the profile 6.

[0070] The punches 26 are, for example, each formed from a reduced-sized (compared to the profile 6) and slightly elongated piece, substantially cylindrical or conical, or of any other suitable shape. Each punch 26 may, for example, be slightly tapered or conical at at least one of its ends, as illustrated in the figure 9 , and therefore capable of performing a " marking » essentially puncture, or punching 27, of the profile 6, and more precisely of the first jaw 13.

[0071] Preferably, the first and second jaws 13, 14 exhibit substantially complementary respective shapes, as illustrated in the figures, and particularly visible in figures 3 to 7 And 9 . Such complementary shapes advantageously increase the friction forces between the jaws 13, 14 in the closed position and the portion of the connecting strip 2 gripped (preferably formed by the gripping part 18) by the latter, and thus ensure better attachment of the fixing device 1 with said strip 2, which ultimately improves the mechanical attachment of the solar panel to the frame via the fixing device 1.

[0072] Advantageously, as illustrated in the figures and particularly visible in figures 3 to 7 And 9Each jaw 13, 14 has a respective set of concavities 21 and protrusions 22, said two sets being arranged so that the respective concavities 21 of one of said jaws 13, 14 are positioned substantially opposite the protrusions 22 of the other jaw 13, 14. Each protrusion 22 of one of said jaws 13, 14 is therefore preferentially located opposite a corresponding concavity 21 of the other jaw 13, 14. The respective internal surfaces of the jaws 13, 14 are advantageously formed, at least in part, by said sets of concavities 21 and protrusions 22. Such respective sets of concavities 21 and protrusions 22 make it possible to ensure significant frictional forces between the jaws 13, 14 in the closed position and the portion of connecting strip 2 enclosed (preferably formed by the enclosing part 18) by the latter.

[0073] For example, the punching holes 27 can be made by placing the punches 26 on the back of the protrusions 22, as illustrated in the figure 9 .

[0074] Optionally, some or all of the complementary shapes, and in particular some or all of said protuberances 22, can be produced by means of said punches 26 and thus formed at least in part by said punchings 27.

[0075] For example, as illustrated in the figures, each jaw 13, 14 has a respective general plate shape, preferably not smooth, said two plates joining in particular to form said hook shape. Each set of concavities 21 and protuberances 22 is thus, for example, formed by: variations in the thickness of the respective jaw 13, 14, and more specifically by variations in the thickness of said respective plate shape, as illustrated in the figure 3, and / or by variations in the respective plate shape of the jaw 13, 14 considered, the plate shape, for example, itself exhibiting an undulation or a wave-like shape, as illustrated in the figure 9 , the crests of said waves thus forming said protuberances 22, while the troughs of said waves form said concavities 21.

[0076] Preferably, at least one of said first and second jaws 13, 14 has teeth 23. More preferably still, each of said first and second jaws 13, 14 has a respective set of teeth 23, said teeth 23 forming more preferably still at least in part the respective internal surfaces of the jaws 13, 14. These teeth 23 advantageously allow to increase even more the friction between the jaws 13, 14 in closed position and the connecting strip 2 (and more precisely the clamping part 18).

[0077] Preferably, some of said teeth 23 are positioned on said protuberances 22 or form at least part of them, while other teeth 23 are positioned inside said concavities 21. The teeth 23 advantageously form a combination with said protuberances 22 and concavities 21 so as to further increase the friction between the jaws 13, 14 in closed position and the connecting band 2 (and more specifically the clamping part 18).

[0078] Preferably, each jaw 13, 14 is substantially elongated and is traversed, in the direction of its length, by the said protuberances 22, concavities 21 and / or respective teeth 23.

[0079] Preferably, the jaws 13, 14 are designed to crush or deform the connecting strip 2, particularly when said jaws 13, 14 are in the closed position. For example, said protrusions 22 and concavities 21 are designed to deform the connecting strip 2, and in particular the clamping portion 18, so as to give it a corrugated, wave-like profile, as particularly well illustrated by the figure 3 .

[0080] Advantageously, the fastening device 1 comprises at least one secondary profile 6' substantially equivalent, both in its structure and function, to the previously described profile 6, which may optionally be designated as the primary profile 6. The fastening device 1 preferably further comprises a spacer 24 separating the primary 6 and secondary 6' profiles and securing them together, for example by attaching the primary 6 and secondary 6' profiles to their respective ends of said spacer 24, for example by screwing. The spacer 24 is advantageously made of a material similar or identical to that of said profiles 6, 6', in particular a metallic material, preferably aluminum and / or steel, or a plastic material, preferably high-density polyethylene (HDPE).For example, one end of the spacer 24 is connected to the primary profile 6 via the straight section 11, while the other end of the spacer 24 is connected to the secondary profile 6' via a section of the latter that is equivalent to, or even symmetrical to, the straight section 11. The secondary profile 6' is preferably arranged substantially symmetrically to the primary profile 6 described above. The secondary profile 6' is advantageously designed to accommodate the same solar panel as the primary profile 6.

[0081] The invention also relates, in a second aspect, to a mounting assembly 25 for a solar panel attached to a roof-type frame. According to the invention, the mounting assembly 25 comprises a fastening device 1 as described above (and possibly below). The preceding description concerning the fastening device 1 therefore also applies to the mounting assembly 25 according to the invention. The same applies to the frame and the solar panel.

[0082] According to the invention, the fastening assembly 25 further comprises a substantially flexible connecting strip 2 designed to be connected on the one hand to the frame and on the other hand to the fastening device 1, in order to secure the latter to the frame. Preferably, the connecting strip 2 is as described above (and possibly below), and connected to the profile 6 as described previously. The preceding (and possibly following) description concerning the connecting strip 2 therefore advantageously also applies to the fastening assembly 25 according to the invention.

[0083] The fixing assembly 25 is therefore preferably assembled in the workshop, in the factory or near the frame on which the solar panel is intended to be fixed, then the connecting strip 2 is attached, in particular by heat welding, to the roof-type frame, preserving the sealing, or at least some insulation, of the latter.

[0084] The structure advantageously includes a membrane, preferably flexible and waterproof, which advantageously forms a waterproofing layer ensuring at least watertightness of the structure, particularly when the latter is formed by a roof. The connecting strip 2 is thus advantageously designed to be fixed to the surface of the membrane, for example by heat welding, preferably in such a way as to preserve the waterproofing of the membrane by avoiding, in particular, puncturing it.Preferably, said connecting strip 2 is therefore solely intended to ensure the mechanical connection between the fixing device 1 and the frame (more precisely, the frame's sealing membrane), in particular to form the fixing assembly 25, preferably while preserving the watertightness of said sealing membrane, but said connecting strip 2 is advantageously not intended to ensure the watertightness of said frame and / or said sealing membrane. This means in particular that said connecting strip 2 differs from a flashing, which is primarily intended to seal an external part of a frame. Said connecting strip 2 is preferably not made of metal, that is to say, it is primarily formed of one or more (flexible) materials other than metals (such as aluminum, steel, etc. - or with a relatively small proportion of metal).The connecting strip 2 is preferably intended primarily to ensure the mechanical fixing, via the fixing device 1, of a solar panel to the frame, and not to ensure the watertightness of the solar panel and / or the frame itself, although said connecting strip 2 advantageously allows the watertightness of a frame's waterproofing membrane to be maintained by being welded to it. The fixing device 1 (and by extension the fixing assembly 25) therefore allows a solar panel to be advantageously fixed to a frame without penetrating or piercing the frame, for example with nails, screws, or any other invasive fastening method; such a configuration thus avoids degrading the watertightness properties of said waterproofing membrane (and more generally of the frame).

[0085] The fixing assembly 25 includes, optionally, another connecting strip 2' or secondary connecting strip 2' substantially equivalent, both in its structure and in its functions, to the connecting strip 2 previously described which will be optionally designated as the primary connecting strip 2. The secondary connecting strip 2' is thus in particular designed to be connected on the one hand to the secondary profile 6', in the same way that the primary connecting strip 2 previously mentioned is connected to the primary profile 6, and on the other hand to said frame.

[0086] The invention also relates, as such, to a third aspect, one embodiment of which is shown in the figures 4 to 7By way of illustration and without limitation, a method for manufacturing a fixing assembly 25 for a solar panel to a roof-type frame. Preferably, the fixing assembly 25 obtained by the method is as mentioned above (and possibly below), the preceding description concerning the fixing assembly 25 therefore advantageously also applying to the method of embodiment according to the invention.

[0087] According to the invention, the embodiment comprises at least one step of supplying a substantially flexible connecting strip 2 designed to be connected to the frame. Preferably, the connecting strip 2 is as described above. The connecting strip 2 is therefore, for example, intended to be connected to the frame by heat welding.

[0088] According to the invention, the embodiment further comprises a step of providing a fastening device 1 intended, on the one hand, to be secured to said frame by the substantially flexible connecting strip 2, and on the other hand, to receive said panel. Preferably, the fastening device 1 is as described above.

[0089] According to one feature of the invention, the fastening device 1 comprises at least one profile 6 forming a first jaw 13 and a second jaw 14. Preferably, said second jaw 14 is formed from the same material as said first jaw 13. Advantageously, the profile 6 and said jaws 13, 14 are as described above. The profile 6 is obtained, for example, during the aforementioned supply step by drawing, rolling, welding, bending, extrusion, etc.

[0090] According to the invention, as illustrated in figures 6 and 7The manufacturing process includes a step of deforming said profile 6 in the region of said jaws 13, 14 in order to wedge said connecting strip 2 between said jaws 13, 14.

[0091] Preferably, said deformation step includes a substep of pressing at least one of said jaws 13, 14, for example the first jaw 13, towards the other, for example the second jaw 14. Said substep of pressing is advantageously carried out using a press 20, which is therefore advantageously applied against the first jaw 13. Advantageously, during said deformation step, and in particular during said substep of pressing, said jaws 13, 14 pass, by plastic deformation of the profile 6 (and more preferably of said first jaw 13), from an open position, as mentioned above, where they provide between them a space 19 sufficient to slide a portion of said strip 2 into it, to a closed position, as mentioned above, where said jaws 13, 14 grip said strip 2 to attach it thus to said profile 6.

[0092] For example, during said supply step and before said deformation step, a portion of the connecting strip 2, and more specifically the clamping part 18, is positioned between said jaws 13, 14 in space 19, as illustrated in the figure 4 , the said jaws 13, 14 being therefore in the open position.

[0093] Then, during the deformation step, and in particular during the pressing substep, a press 20 is advantageously positioned so as to be able to press the first jaw 13 towards the second jaw 14, the first jaw 13 thus being located between the press 20 and the second jaw 14, while the second jaw 14 rests on a suitable support capable of withstanding the pressure of the press 20. During the deformation step, and in particular during the pressing substep, the first jaw 13 is therefore pressed and deformed by the press 20 towards the second jaw 14, so as to close the gap 19 to clamp, that is to say, to enclose, by pressure, and more precisely by friction, the connecting strip 2 between the jaws 13, 14, as illustrated in figures 6 and 7Finally, during the deformation step, and particularly at the end of the pressing step, the press 20 is advantageously removed so as not to exert any further pressure on the jaws 13, 14. The deformation undergone by the first jaw 13 is sufficient to ensure the retention, or clamping, of the connecting strip 2 between the jaws 13, 14, which are then in the closed position. Optionally, during the deformation step, both jaws 13, 14 are deformed so as to clamp the connecting strip 2.

[0094] Preferably, during said deformation step, and in particular during said pressing substep, said connecting strip 2 is deformed by said jaws 13, 14. For example, during said pressing step, the respective protrusions 22 of each jaw 13, 14 push a portion of the connecting strip 2 into the respective concavities of the other jaw 13, 14, and vice versa. Furthermore, during said deformation step, and in particular during said pressing substep, said connecting strip 2 is preferably crushed by said jaws 13, 14.

[0095] Optionally, said deformation step further includes a punching substep, as illustrated in figures 8 and 9 , during which the profile 6, and more specifically at least one of said jaws 13, 14, for example the first jaw 13, undergoes punching 27 using punches 26 which are either integral with the press 20, as illustrated in the figure 8 , or distinct from the latter, as illustrated in the figure 9 . Thus, the said punching step advantageously includes a step of supplying said punches 26 below the press 20 and / or a step of mounting the punches 26 with the press 20.

[0096] The punches 27 are advantageously point deformations and / or perforations 27 of the profile 6, and more precisely of the jaw 13, made by means of said punches 26.

[0097] Preferably, during the punching step, the punches 26 create the punctures or localized deformations 27 (or punches 27) of the profile 6, and more specifically of at least one of the jaws 13, 14, for example, the first jaw 13, and possibly also of the connecting strip 2, in order to clamp the latter between the jaws 13, 14. The punching step is preferably carried out after the pressing step. Advantageously, during the punching step, the punches 26 are pressed on the outside (and in particular the external surface) of the first jaw 13 towards the second jaw 14. Preferably, during the punching step, the punches 26 are pressed sufficiently hard on the first jaw 13 to puncture and / or locally deform it.Preferably, the perforations and / or point deformations 27 (or punchings 27) thus created carry material from the first jaw 13 towards the second jaw 14, so as to wedge said strip 2 between said jaws 13, 14.

[0098] The process of the invention thus makes it possible to produce in particular a fixing assembly 25 particularly adapted for the mechanical fixing of the solar panel to the frame, the fixing assembly 25 itself comprising a fixing device 1 particularly adapted to be mechanically attached to a connecting strip 2 itself fixed to the frame.

Claims

1. Fixing device (1) for a solar panel to a roof-type structure, said fixing device (1) being intended, on the one hand, to be secured to said structure by a substantially flexible connecting strip (2), and on the other hand, to receive said panel, characterized in that it includes at least one profile (6) forming a first jaw (13) and a second jaw (14), said profile (6) being designed to be deformed in the region of said jaws (13, 14) in order to wedge said connecting strip (2) between said jaws (13, 14).

2. Fixing device (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that said profile (6) has a section substantially in the shape of a hook which forms said jaws (13, 14).

3. Fixing device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in thatsaid jaws (13, 14) are designed to pass, by plastic deformation of the profile (6), from an open position, where they provide between them a space (19) sufficient to slide a portion of said strip (2) into it, to a closed position, where said jaws (13, 14) clamp said strip (2) to attach it thus to said profile (6).

4. Fixing device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first and second jaws (13, 14) have respective shapes that are substantially complementary.

5. Fixing device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one of the said first and second jaws (13, 14) has teeth (23).

6. Fixing device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in thateach jaw (13, 14) has a respective set of concavities (21) and protuberances (22), said two sets being arranged so that the respective concavities (21) of one of said jaws (13, 14) are positioned substantially opposite the protuberances (22) of the other jaw (13, 14).

7. Fixing device (1) according to claims 5 and 6, characterized in that some of said teeth (23) are positioned on said protuberances (22) or form at least part of them, while other teeth (23) are positioned inside said concavities (21).

8. Fixing device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first and second jaws (13, 14) are designed to permanently secure said profile (6) to the connecting strip (2).

9. Fixing device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in thatsaid profile (6) is mainly formed of a metallic material, preferably aluminium and / or steel, or of a plastic material, preferably high-density polyethylene (HDPE).

10. Mounting assembly (25) for a solar panel to a roof-type frame, characterized in that It comprises a fixing device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, and a substantially flexible connecting strip (2) designed to be connected on the one hand to said frame and on the other hand to said fixing device (1), in order to secure the latter to said frame.

11. Fastening assembly (25) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that said connecting strip (2) is mainly formed of a material selected from the group comprising bitumen, elastomers including ethylene-propylene-diene monomer rubbers (EPDM), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polyolefins including thermoplastic polyolefins (TPO) and flexible polyolefins (FPO).

12. Method for making a fixing assembly (25) for a solar panel to a roof-type structure, said method comprising at least: - a step of supplying a substantially flexible connecting strip (2) designed to be connected to said structure, - a step of supplying a fixing device (1) intended on the one hand to be secured to said structure by the substantially flexible connecting strip (2), and on the other hand to receive said panel, characterized in that the fastening device (1) comprises at least one profile (6) forming a first jaw (13) and a second jaw (14), and in that it includes a step of deforming said profile (6) in the region of said jaws (13, 14) in order to wedge said connecting strip (2) between said jaws (13, 14).

13. Method of implementation according to the preceding claim, characterized in thatsaid deformation step includes a substep of pressing at least one of said jaws (13, 14) towards the other.

14. Method of implementation according to the preceding claim or claim 12, characterized in that during said deformation step, said connecting strip (2) is deformed by said jaws (13, 14).

15. A method for implementing any one of claims 12 to 14, characterized in that during said deformation step, said connecting strip (2) is crushed by said jaws (13, 14).