Photovoltaic module mounting device

Abstract

A photovoltaic module fixing device (1) includes a first profile (3) and a second profile (4) that cooperates with the first profile (3). The first profile (3) has two support flanges (30) facing outward in opposite directions. The second profile (4) has two fastening flanges (40) facing outward in opposite directions. The second profile (4) is housed in a U-shaped opening of the first profile (3). The device has an actuation system that mechanically connects the second profile (4) to the first profile (3). The actuation system includes a single fastening member and is capable of longitudinally translating the second profile (4) along the longitudinal direction of the first profile and vertically translating it in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction when the fastening member is actuated.

Description

[0001] This invention relates to a device for fixing photovoltaic modules.

[0002] This invention describes more specifically a device fixed to a supporting structure for use in a solar field, but is not limited thereto. The device of this invention is suitable for all structures on which photovoltaic modules are fixed, including roofs.

[0003] Numerous photovoltaic (PV) module support devices exist on the market, including profiles of various shapes (though usually Omega-shaped). PV modules are placed on these profiles, and clamps are inserted between and positioned across the modules, securing them to the edges and tops. Their use is complex, particularly cumbersome and time-consuming, because proper positioning and stabilization of the modules are required before installation, and multiple clamps and bolts must be used for installation and bolting. For example, in a 120m... 2 Installing 60 modules (each 2m x 1m) on an area requires placing approximately 130 clamps and their matching bolts, which would take one worker about six hours or two workers about three hours. Furthermore, the existing installations are inconvenient for maintenance. Currently, replacing faulty modules in solar farms requires climbing up to unscrew the clamps, a difficult operation that poses a fall risk to installers.

[0004] In existing devices, European patent application EP2309549 can be cited, which describes a device with a first profile, generally omega-shaped, having a supporting upper web for supporting two side-by-side components, and an upwardly projecting intermediate rib connected to the web, the sides of which form stop surfaces on the sides of the components. The device also has a second profile forming a pressure strip across the rib of the first profile and the top surface of the components. However, this method of fixing requires many screws, and climbing onto the components is necessary when removing them, including in applications to solar fields. It is also known in US patent document US2022255494 that a pair of parts or clamps are mentioned, where one part snaps into the interior of another, creating space for arranging the components clamped between the two parts. Fastening one part into the interior of another allows for the securing of the components. Each pair of parts has multiple holes at their bottom, into which an operator engages screw-like fastening components. These screws are screwed in vertically and must also engage face-to-face with a nut-fixing system positioned in the support structure. Moreover, securing a component requires several pairs of parts and many screws, and the operator must concentrate fully on correctly positioning the pairs of parts relative to the fixing system of the supporting structure, and tightening the screws into the correct position each time, which multiplies the amount of screwing work.

[0005] Therefore, the purpose of this invention is to provide a photovoltaic module fixing device that is simple and quick to use, easy to maintain, and can withstand the most severe climatic conditions.

[0006] In this invention, the photovoltaic module fixing device conforms to claim 1. Specifically, in this invention, the photovoltaic module fixing device (for simultaneously and transversely fixing at least two adjacent first modules arranged on both sides of the device) has a first profile (for forming a support structure for the photovoltaic module) and a second profile that cooperates with the first profile (the second profile is used to transversely abut against the top surface of the module), characterized in that... - A first profile (used to form a herringbone-type component when fixing the assembly in a horizontal mode, or a beam-type component when fixing the assembly in a vertical mode; the first profile is fixed to a supporting structure, specifically to a part of the supporting structure, such as a beam or roof truss), has an overall U-shaped cross-section (with a U-shaped opening, facing the ground or supporting structure when the device is installed), including a web (for fixing to the supporting structure), two parallel and opposing flanges, called vertical flanges, extending vertically from the web (basically), and two support flanges extending vertically from the vertical flanges in opposite directions away from the web (extending from the free ends of the flanges) and toward the outside of the first profile (each support flange forms a support surface to support the assembly disposed on the side of the first profile). - The second profile has an overall U-shaped cross-section (with a U-shaped opening, facing the ground or support structure when the device is installed), and includes a web, two parallel and opposing flanges, and two fastening flanges extending perpendicularly from the flanges of the second profile away from the web (extending from the free end of the flange) and toward the outside of the second profile (each fastening flange is used to clamp the side and top edge of the assembly at right angles). - The second profile is housed in the U-shaped opening of the first profile, such that the fastening flange of the second profile is spaced apart from the supporting flange of the first profile (in the vertical direction) (and when the photovoltaic module is installed and fastened, the fastening flange is parallel and faces the supporting flange), and the device has an actuation system for mechanically connecting the second profile to the first profile. The actuation system includes a single fastening member, which, when actuated, enables the second profile to perform longitudinal translational movement along the longitudinal direction of the first profile, and simultaneously vertical translational movement in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (so that the fastening flange can be brought closer to or separated from the support flange simultaneously in a vertical plane and a plane perpendicular to the vertical plane and parallel to the fastening flange). Specifically, the single fastening member extends longitudinally along the length of the profile (fastening is performed along the longitudinal direction of the profile, not the vertical direction). No positioning marks are required; the assembly can be fastened with a single tightening operation on the single fastening member at the end of the first profile. Advantageously, the length of the profile is at least equivalent to the side length of the assembly to be fastened (fixed), and the actuation system with the single fastening member allows for fastening along the entire length of the assembly in a single operation due to its simultaneous vertical and longitudinal movement.

[0007] The second profile moves relative to the first profile, causing the fastening flanges to move closer (when tightening the fastening member) or further away (when loosening the fastening member) from the support flange. When the assembly is positioned on the support flange, the proximity of the fastening flanges will position them against the top surface of the assembly, wherein the fastening actuating member allows the fastening flanges to be fastened / clamped against the assembly.

[0008] Therefore, the device of the present invention achieves very simple and quick installation and maintenance using very few parts. In fact, installers save a lot of time and effort because the number of fasteners is greatly reduced. The components are placed on the support flange of the first profile, and the installer only needs to tighten a single actuating member to secure the components via the fastening flange of the second profile. The installer does not need to look for installation marks, nor does he need to stand on each component to secure multiple cross clamps or fix multiple screws to the cross-connecting profiles; he only needs to place the components on the support flange of the first profile, and, if necessary, place them vertically or to one side, and then tighten a single fastening member, specifically the single fastening member located at the end of the first profile, to tighten and secure all components. Specifically, the first and second profiles extend along the entire length of one side of the components, and the actuation system with a single fastening member allows the second profile to be fastened against two adjacent components supported by the first profile, and this is done along the entire length of the two adjacent components, thereby securing the two components to both sides of the profile along the entire length of the profile.

[0009] Compared to the prior art examples mentioned earlier in this specification, an area of ​​60 modules (each 2m x 1m) requires only two workers to install in fifteen minutes, using a total of twenty fixing screws (instead of over one hundred clamps and matching screws). Even for the same area, only ten fixing screws are needed when installing modules horizontally. Furthermore, this steel-framed device is robust, and the force is applied along the entire length of the module, rather than being localized like with aluminum components in the prior art. The device is robust and can withstand hurricanes, and depending on the materials used, can withstand winds of 320 km / h and above. The length of the device is variable, for example, approximately 6 meters, to accommodate up to three to four photovoltaic modules on each side. In addition, the device allows for modules to be installed in either a vertical or horizontal configuration, with the profiles arranged in a herringbone or beam configuration.

[0010] In the following text of the instruction manual, "vertical" refers to the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the profile. The term "height," and the qualitative descriptions of the device components such as "top," "bottom," "upper," and "lower," are used within the range of the support structure used for the solar field or roof when the device is normally installed.

[0011] According to one feature and a first embodiment, the second profile has flexible flanges, and on each of its flanges (specifically along the entire length of the profile), symmetrically and at a distance from the fastening flange, includes ribs projecting outwards from the second profile; preferably, each rib has a generally triangular cross-section. "Flexible" means that when pressure is applied, the flanges of the second profile can come together, corresponding to a so-called constrained position, opposite to an idle position, or returning to the idle position after pressure is released. The ribs act as stops, engaging with the interior of the first profile within the opening top surface (against the side of the supporting flange) to constrain the flanges of the second profile and cause them to bend obliquely so that they come together. In the constrained state, the flanges of the second profile are abutted or substantially abutted. In this constrained state, from one shank to another, or from one beam to another, that is, between two consecutive devices of the present invention, the distance between the fastening flange of one device and the fastening flange of the adjacent device is greater than the width of a photovoltaic module. This allows for easy placement of the device, specifically vertically directly perpendicular to the support flange.

[0012] According to a feature of the first embodiment, under the so-called constrained state of the flange of the second profile, the fastening flanges of the second profile are arranged side by side and offset perpendicular to the U-shaped opening of the first profile, and no longer face the supporting flange.

[0013] According to a feature of the first embodiment, the vertical flanges of the first profile are spaced apart, the gap narrowing at the plane where the supporting flange is located (i.e., at the top surface of the opening of the profile). This narrowing is achieved by the vertical flanges converging and tilting inward at their so-called apex. Specifically, this tilting is reversed and symmetrical about the vertical direction of the so-called apex. Ribs abut against the vertical flanges of the first profile and conform to their contours, narrowing at their apex and then opening downwards towards the profile, so that the flanges of the second profile separate when the second profile descends into the first profile and converge when it rises.

[0014] According to a feature and a second embodiment of the device regarding the first and second profiles, the second profile can be manually tilted from either side toward the flange of the first profile, such that the fastening flange of one of the flanges of the second profile is offset inside the U-shape of the first profile without going beyond the support flange immediately adjacent to the first profile.

[0015] According to a feature of the second embodiment, the first profile has at least a pair of elongated holes opposite its flanges (each flange includes at least one elongated hole opposite the elongated hole of the other flange), wherein each elongated hole, referred to as a vertical elongated hole, has a longitudinal axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (i.e., the vertical direction) of the first profile. Since the second profile is connected to the first profile, the vertical elongated holes of the first profile allow the second profile to tilt relative to the first profile within the U-shape of the first profile, while simultaneously tilting the second profile toward one of the flanges of the first profile, thereby freeing up space above the support flange of the other flange of the first profile. This freed-up space is used to place the assembly vertically and directly onto the support flange. The tilting of the second profile to the opposite side causes the fastening flange used to mate the assembly to be installed to shift inward toward the U-shaped opening of the first profile, specifically perpendicular to the flange of the first profile, so that the assembly can be placed along the vertical direction of the support flange of the first profile without interference from the second profile.

[0016] According to a feature of the second embodiment, the vertical elongated hole of the first profile is provided at the lower half height of the wing plate, and the upper half height of the wing plate is connected to the web plate.

[0017] According to another feature of the second embodiment, each flange of the second profile has an end opposite the web, which is inclined relative to the rest of the flange by flaring outwards and connected to a fastening flange. Therefore, the U-shaped tip of the second profile is flared, which facilitates the installation and removal of components when an operator tilts the second profile toward one of the flanges of the first profile and thus also toward one of the already installed components. This flare prevents the tilted second profile from abutting against the already installed component.

[0018] According to one feature, the actuation system, such as the fastening member, is mechanically coupled to the end of the first profile and also mechanically coupled to the second profile. Various methods of mechanical coupling can be considered. According to one feature and one embodiment, in order to mechanically couple the fastening member to the second profile, the actuation system has a connecting shaft (passing through the interior of the second profile) fixedly connected to a flange of the second profile, and a connector for connecting the connecting shaft to the fastening member (to drive the second profile to move).

[0019] According to one feature, each flange of the second profile includes at least a pair of facing elongated holes (each flange includes at least one elongated hole facing the elongated hole on the other flange), wherein each elongated hole is inclined relative to the longitudinal axis of the second profile, i.e., inclined from the so-called lower end to the opposite so-called higher end, the lower end of the inclined elongated hole being on the fastening member side, and the device has at least one guide member, such as a guide shaft, which is connected to the two vertical flanges of the first profile, capable of sliding over the vertical elongated holes of the first profile, and capable of sliding in the paired inclined elongated holes of the second profile (when the fastening member is actuated). Regardless of the embodiment of the profile (first or second embodiment), the inclined elongated holes of the second profile in which the guide shaft engages facilitate proper guidance of the second profile in vertical and longitudinal translational movements along the entire length of the device, so that the second profile abuts against the assembly while being completely parallel to the side of the assembly to be fastened by the second profile.

[0020] Preferably, along the length of the profile, the second profile includes multiple pairs of face-to-face spaced inclined elongated holes (for engaging with multiple pairs of face-to-face holes of the first profile to allow the second profile to move within the first profile).

[0021] According to a feature of the first embodiment, the fixing device has a key that locks the guide member in the fastening position of the fastening member (specifically, it locks the guide member in its high position, that is, when the second profile is accommodated in the first profile and extends beyond its ribs, the flange of the second profile is in its free position, and the fastening flange abuts against the photovoltaic module and is fastened / clamped).

[0022] According to one feature (whether in the first or second embodiment of the profile), the fastening member is a screw with a threaded rod, which includes a fastening head and an opposing end, the end being connected to a connector of the actuation system, and the fastening head being able to abut against a stop surface connected to the distal end of the first profile in its fastened position.

[0023] According to one feature of the device, there is only one fastening member, which is arranged at the far end of the first profile. Specifically, it engages with a stop surface in the fastened state, the stop surface extending in a plane intersecting the longitudinal direction of the first profile and located at the far end of the first profile.

[0024] The present invention also relates to a method using the aforementioned fixing device to fix multiple photovoltaic modules along both sides of the device (the device is pre-fixed against a frame / support structure, particularly by fixing it against the frame by the web of the first profile), the steps of which are as follows: -Loosen individual fasteners; - Installers place at least one photovoltaic module on each support flange, which can be done by moving it vertically. - Installers can place multiple photovoltaic modules along the device; - The installer positions himself at the single fastening component located at the far end of the first profile, tightens the fastening component, and causes the second profile to move longitudinally along the longitudinal direction of the first profile, while simultaneously moving vertically in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, thereby pulling the fastening flange toward the supporting flange. - The installer fully tightens the fastening components, clamping the fastening flange at a right angle against the photovoltaic module.

[0025] With just one step of actuating the fastening member, the installer can secure two adjacent components of the device by simultaneously abutting the fastening flange of the second profile against the components along the entire length of the second profile, specifically by fastening along the entire length of the components when the profile covers the entire length of the components.

[0026] Of course, in order to secure the arranged components, the two devices need to be arranged separately and parallel to each other, which allows the relative flanges of each component to be secured.

[0027] The present invention also relates to a method of using a fixing device as described above and according to a first embodiment of the profile, for fixing multiple photovoltaic modules along both sides of the device, the method being characterized by comprising the following steps (the device is pre-fixed against a frame / support structure, particularly by fixing the web of the first profile against the frame): - Loosen the fastening members so that the second profile housed in the first profile is in the so-called "high" position, in which the fastening flange spaced apart from the support flange is offset toward the interior of the second profile and the interior of the first profile, and is offset vertically (vertically) relative to the so-called inner end of the support flange, so that the space above the support flange is completely vacated. - Installers place at least one photovoltaic module on each support flange, which can be done by moving it vertically. - Installers can place multiple photovoltaic modules along the device; - The installer positions himself at the fastening component, specifically the fastening component located at the far end of the first profile (and thus at the far end of the device, and if the components are arranged in a vertical configuration, at the lowest point of the device's slope, where the lowest component is secured by a universal stop device in a known manner), and then tightens the fastening component. This causes the second profile to translate, thereby pulling the fastening flange toward the support flange by simultaneously separating the fastening flanges from each other and bringing the fastening flanges closer (in the vertical direction) to the support flange. - The installer fully tightens the fastening components, clamping the fastening flange at a right angle against the photovoltaic module (both on the top edge of the module and close to its side, thus securing the module).

[0028] The present invention also relates to a method of using a fixing device as described above and according to a second embodiment of the profile, for fixing multiple photovoltaic modules along both sides of the device, the method being characterized by comprising the following steps (the device is pre-fixed against a frame / support structure, particularly by fixing it against the frame by the web of the first profile): - After the fastening components are loosened, the installer manually tilts the second profile toward one side of a flange of the first profile, so that the fastening flange of one flange of the second profile is offset inside the first profile without exceeding the upper part of the support flange of the first profile, thus completely clearing the space above the support flange. - The installer places the photovoltaic module on the support flange, and there is no second profile fastening flange in the space above it. Specifically, the photovoltaic module can be placed directly in the vertical direction by moving from top to bottom. - The installer manually tilts the second profile toward the other side of the already placed module, thereby freeing up space above the other support flange of the other wing of the first profile, and then the installer places another photovoltaic module on the other support flange; Installers can place multiple photovoltaic modules along the installation at a time by tilting the second profile to one side; - The installer places the second profile back into its position perpendicular to the interior of the first profile and positions it at the fastening member, specifically the fastening member being located at the far end of the first profile (and thus at the far end of the assembly, and if the components are arranged in a vertical configuration, at the lowest point of the sloping surface of the assembly, the lowest component being secured by a universal stop device in a known manner), and then tightens the fastening member. This causes the second profile to translate, thereby pulling the fastening flange toward the support flange by bringing the fastening flange closer to the support flange in the vertical direction. - The installer fully tightens the fastening components, clamping the fastening flange at a right angle against the photovoltaic module (both on the top edge of the module and close to its side, thus securing the module).

[0029] The invention will now be described by way of example only, and not by way of limiting the scope of the invention, and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: - Figure 1 This is a top-view perspective schematic view of how multiple photovoltaic modules are fixed to a support structure using the fixing device of the present invention.

[0030] - Figure 2 The (first) embodiment is shown. Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of the fixing device in the image, showing the photovoltaic module being supported but not yet tightened, and therefore not fully secured.

[0031] - Figure 3 and Figure 2 The view corresponds to the photovoltaic module being tightened and secured.

[0032] - Figure 4 An exploded perspective view of the first and second profiles of the fixing device of the present invention is shown.

[0033] - Figure 5 This is a front view of the cross-section of the first profile.

[0034] - Figure 6 This is a front view of the cross-section of the second profile.

[0035] - Figure 7 A schematic side view of an embodiment of the fastening device of the present invention is shown, comprising a connector and a fastening member coupled to the connector, wherein the connector is used to connect the first and second profiles.

[0036] - Figure 8 yes Figure 2 A partial top view of the fixing device shows the connector that connects the first and second profiles to the coupled fastening member.

[0037] - Figure 9 yes Figure 2 The fixing device is shown in a mid-longitudinal partial sectional view at the connecting shaft of the connector, and optionally the key in the unlocked position is also shown.

[0038] - Figure 10 yes Figure 3 A longitudinal partial sectional view of the fixing device in the middle, and Figure 9 The key is in the locked position, but the key is in the locked position.

[0039] - Figure 11 This is a front view of the far ends of two separated devices for mounting at least one photovoltaic module, with fastening members located at the far ends. This view corresponds to the second profile from... Figure 2 The location of the force to Figure 3 The middle position between the idle and the fastened position. Figure 11It is also a partial sectional view, which shows the second profile housed within the first profile.

[0040] - Figure 12 A schematic cross-sectional view of the fixing device of the present invention in another (second) embodiment of the profile is shown, wherein the photovoltaic module is in a tightened and fixed state; a second profile in an inclined position is also shown in dashed lines before one of the modules is installed.

[0041] - Figure 13 Corresponding to Figure 12 A schematic view of the fastening device abutting the component in an unused, idle state, with the fastening member at its distal end. This view is also a partial sectional view to show the second profile housed within the first profile.

[0042] - Figure 14 An exploded side view of the first profile and the second profile in the second embodiment is shown.

[0043] - Figure 15 This is a front view of the cross-section of the first profile in the second embodiment.

[0044] - Figure 16 This is a front view of a cross-section of the second profile in the second embodiment.

[0045] - Figure 17 This is a longitudinal partial sectional view of the fixing device during photovoltaic module exposure, at which time the second profile in the second embodiment of the profile is in the following position: Figure 12 The sloping position is indicated by the dashed line.

[0046] - Figure 18 This is a partial longitudinal sectional view of the fixing device after the photovoltaic module is secured. At this time, the second profile in the second embodiment of the profile is in the position as shown in the figure. Figure 12 The fastening position is indicated by the dashed line.

[0047] - Figure 19 This is a partial longitudinal sectional view of the fixing device in the second embodiment of the profile, wherein the device is in an unused, idle state, and shows various parts, including the end at the fastening member, the part where the vertical elongated hole of the second profile mates with the inclined elongated hole of the first profile, and the part where the device is fixed to the crossbeam of the supporting structure.

[0048] The device 1 of the present invention shown in the figure allows photovoltaic modules 2A, 2B, etc. to be mounted on a supporting structure S, for example, on a supporting structure for a solar field. Device 1 can also be mounted on other supporting structures, such as the framework of an industrial roof or a conventional roof.

[0049] Device 1 is used in the inclined plane direction. Device 1 is used to form a truss beam supporting the photovoltaic module. Multiple devices 1 will be spaced apart according to the width of the photovoltaic module and form the support structure of the module.

[0050] Photovoltaic modules are generally rectangular. They are assembled in a "vertical" configuration, meaning their long sides are parallel to the slope of the supporting structure. As a variation, they can also be arranged in a "lateral" configuration, where their long sides intersect the slope of the supporting structure and are parallel to the crossbeams of the frame. The profiles described below, as part of device 1, will be positioned along the direction of the photovoltaic modules' maximum length.

[0051] The device 1 extends longitudinally and has two longitudinal sides 10 and 11, on which one or more components are supported and fixed, which are connected in the longitudinal direction.

[0052] The purpose of device 1 is to simultaneously fix at least two modules 2A and 2B, which are respectively arranged on its two sides 10 and 11. At least one photovoltaic module 2A is installed between the two spaced-apart fixing devices 1. Figure 1 and Figure 11 ). Figure 1 Multiple components are shown arranged in a vertical pattern, wherein two consecutive components 2A and 2C, as well as 2B and 2D, are arranged along the length of the fixing device 1 and each side 10 and 11 (along the inclined surface).

[0053] The length of device 1 can be adjusted by cutting one end, that is, cutting the ends of its two profiles.

[0054] The length of device 1 can be, for example, 6m, to arrange and secure four 1.5-meter-long modules or three 2-meter-long modules on each side of the device along the inclined surface. Device 1 extends along the entire length of the photovoltaic module and secures the photovoltaic module. Using a single device 1, an operator can simultaneously secure at least two adjacent modules (on each side of the device) along the entire length of the module, with the securing profile (hereinafter referred to as the second profile 4) extending at least along the entire length of the adjacent modules.

[0055] Device 1 ( Figure 2 ) includes a first profile 3, a second profile 4, and a first mechanical connection system 5A between the second profile 4 and the first profile 3. Figure 8 This is used to enable the second profile 4 to simultaneously (within the first profile 3) perform vertical and horizontal translations, and preferably also includes a second mechanical connection system 5B between the second profile 4 and the first profile 3, for guiding the movement of the second profile 4 according to its length. Figure 2 , 9 10, 12, and 17 to 19). The first connection system 5A, hereinafter referred to as the "actuation system", has a fastening actuation member 6 ( Figures 9 to 11The second profile 4 is capable of moving relative to the first profile 3. The second connection system 5B, hereinafter referred to as the "guiding system", has at least one guide member 5' to facilitate the movement of the second profile 4 relative to the first profile 3.

[0056] The second profile 4 is housed within the first profile 3, with a portion extending beyond the first profile. The second profile 4 is capable of moving relative to the first profile 3 in the longitudinal direction of the profile, and simultaneously performing vertical translation, that is, translation in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the first profile 3. The second profile 4 can be positioned in a so-called high position and a so-called low position.

[0057] Furthermore, the first profile 3 has a supporting flange 30 on which the lower surface 20 of the component can be placed, while the second profile 4 has a fastening flange 40 for abutting and clamping the so-called top surface 21 and side surface 22 of the component. Specifically, the second profile 4 uses its fastening flange to clamp and hold components 2A and 2B at right angles (abutting the frame 23 of the component).

[0058] In order to place the assembly on the support flange 30 of the first profile before fastening the second profile 4, it is necessary to simultaneously or sequentially remove the fastening flange 40 of the second profile 4 from the support flange 30 of the first profile on each side of the device (for two adjacent assemblies 2A and 2B). Two embodiments are used for the first and second profiles 3 and 4, which are described below. Common parts have the same reference numerals. Figures 2 to 11 The first embodiment of profiles 3 and 4 is shown. Figures 12 to 19 A second embodiment of profiles 3 and 4 is shown.

[0059] The first embodiment of the first and second profiles 3 and 4 will now be described. Advantageously, the second profile 3 is flexible at its flange. The flexibility and mobility of the second profile 3 allow the fastening flange 40 to be in the following positions: -The so-called collapsible position ( Figure 2 This arrangement positions the components 2A and 2B in a plane parallel to the support flange 30 and offset inwards from the second profile 4, while also vertically offset relative to the support flange 30. This allows installers to place components 2A and 2B on the support flange 30 without affecting the first profile, thus ensuring the first profile does not cause any interference. The components can be placed in any direction, specifically vertically from top to bottom. The retracted position of the fastening flange 40 corresponds to the high position of the second profile 4. -The so-called fastening position ( Figure 3 These fastening flanges are arranged parallel to and face-to-face with the support flange 40 to secure the top surface of the assembly. The fastening position of the fastening flange 40 corresponds to the lower position of the second profile 4.

[0060] More specifically, the first profile 3 ( Figure 5 The overall shape of the first profile is U-shaped. When installed on a supporting structure, the U-shaped opening of the first profile faces upward (opposite to the supporting structure, or to the ground). The first profile 3 has a web 31, two opposing vertical flanges 32 and 33 that are parallel and face-to-face, and also has two support flanges 30. The first profile 3 (U-shaped) opens in the opposite direction to the web 31. The two support flanges 30 are connected to the free tops of their respective two vertical flanges 32 and 33, opposite to the web 31, and their directions are opposite (towards the outside of the profile). Each support flange 30 has a surface perpendicular to the associated flange (and therefore parallel to the web 31). Preferably, each support flange 30 has a flange 30' that bends perpendicularly toward the web 31 to enhance the rigidity of the support flange 30 used for supporting components (optional and by no means limiting). The thickness of the first profile 3 is particularly between 1.5 mm and 2.5 mm, depending on the size and climatic requirements. The first profile 3 is preferably made of galvanized steel.

[0061] Each vertical wing plate 32 and 33 preferably includes at least one hole 34, preferably two holes, which are spaced apart along the length of the profile according to the length of the profile, for fixing the shaft 5' thereon by bolts, the shaft forming a guide member of the guide system 5B described below, which extends through the internal width of the first profile 3 and the internal width of the second profile 4.

[0062] Furthermore, the width of the U-shaped portion of the first profile 3 (i.e., the distance between the vertical flanges 32 and 33) narrows at the top end 35. This narrowing is achieved by the vertical flanges 32 and 33 converging and tilting towards each other (relative to the main plane of the flanges) (starting from the proximal end) to the plane where the support flange 30 is located. At the plane where the support flange 30 is located, the width of the first profile 3 is less than the width of the web 31.

[0063] Second profile 4 ( Figure 6The overall shape of the profile is U-shaped. It has a web 41 and two flanges 42 and 43 connected to the web 41, which are parallel and face-to-face spaced apart. It also has two fastening flanges 40 at the free ends of the respective flanges, opposite to the web 41, and oriented in opposite directions (outwards towards the profile). Each of the flanges 42 and 43 has a longitudinal rib 44 projecting outwards from the profile. The ribs 44 are spaced apart from the fastening flanges 40, preferably located approximately at half the height between the web 41 and the fastening flanges 40. Preferably, the ribs 44 are sharp; their cross-section is approximately triangular. The ribs 44 have side end faces 45 forming stops. The profile angle of the ribs 44 of the second profile can approximately correspond to the reverse angle (vertically symmetrical) of the inclined end 35 of the first profile. In addition, the spacing (height) between the fastening flanges 40 of the ribs 44 is matched with the thickness of the relevant photovoltaic module so that the fastening flanges 40 abut against the module when the second profile 4 is in the low position.

[0064] The second profile 4 has flexible flanges 42 and 43. Flanges 42 and 43 are elastic. They are flexible due to the thickness of the constituent material. The thickness of flanges 42 and 43 of the second profile 4 is advantageously between 0.5 mm and 0.8 mm. The second profile 4 is made of metal, preferably galvanized steel.

[0065] Between the narrowed ends 35 of the vertical flanges 32 and 33 and the proximal portions of the wider vertical flanges, the stop surface 45 of the rib 44 of the second profile mates with the vertical flanges 32 and 33 of the first profile. By placing the rib 44 against the two surfaces, i.e., between the vertical flanges 32 and 33 of the first profile, with a spacing between them that is either a smaller width (at the narrowed ends of the first profile) or a larger width (at the proximal portions of the first profile) than the spacing between the ribs 44, the rib 44 may be compressed or not compressed. Therefore, in the so-called high position of the second profile 4, when the rib 44 abuts against the vertical flanges 32 and 33 at the plane where the narrowed ends 35 and the supporting flange 30 are located (see...), Figure 2 The flanges 42 and 43 of the second profile are constrained and brought closer together, thereby offsetting the position of the fastening flange 40. This offset of the fastening flange 40 of the second profile allows for the creation of accommodating space above the support flange 30 of the first profile, enabling the delivery and placement of photovoltaic modules onto the support flange without obstruction. As the second profile 4 translates to further penetrate into the interior of the first profile 3 and downwards (towards the web 31), the rib 44, still abutting against the vertical flanges 32 and 33 of the narrowed end 35, is guided to move along an inclined profile opening downwards towards the vertical flanges, thus gradually reducing the pressure on the rib. Figure 11 Therefore, flanges 42 and 43 are released and separated from each other. Once the rib 44 of the second profile is positioned outside the narrowed ends 35 of the vertical flanges 32 and 33 of the first profile ( Figure 3They are no longer constrained, which puts the flanges 42 and 43 of the second profile in their free position and puts the fastening flange 40 in the fastened position.

[0066] When the photovoltaic modules need to be removed (e.g. for maintenance), the second profile 4 is raised relative to the interior of the first profile 3 (from a low position to a high position), making it movable, wherein the profile of the upper end 35 narrows, which puts pressure on the ribs 44, causing the flanges 42 and 43 to bend by tilting towards each other, thereby moving the fastening flange 40 to the opposite side of the photovoltaic modules 2A and 2B; the photovoltaic modules 2A and 2B can then be removed directly vertically without being obstructed by adjacent modules.

[0067] Regardless of whether it is the first embodiment or the second embodiment of the first profile 3 and the second profile 4, the actuation system 5A and the fastening actuation component 6 ( Figure 7 and Figure 8 This allows the second profile 4 to move vertically from a high position to a low position, and vice versa. The translational movement of the second profile 4 can also be correctly accomplished through the guide system 5B. There is only one fastening actuating member 6, located at the distal end 36 of the first profile 3, in a fully fastened position, abutting against the stop surface 7 perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the first profile 3 and closing the distal end 36 of the first profile. Since the distal end 36 of the first profile 3 is open during manufacturing, the closure member is fixedly abutted against the distal end 36 and forms the stop surface 7. Preferably, this closure member belongs to the actuation system 5A. Preferably, this closure member 7 is detachably abutted against the distal end 36 of the first profile 3; this closure member 7 ( Figure 7 and Figure 8 For example, it is U-shaped to cover the distal end 36 of the first profile 3 and the flanges 32 and 33, and is fixed by a through shaft 71 that is bolted through a through hole 70, which is arranged, for example, at the top and in a different plane from the fastening member 6.

[0068] Actuation system 5A ( Figure 7 and Figure 8 The first profile 4 has a through-connecting shaft 50 for laterally passing through and being fixedly connected to the second profile 4. The connecting shaft 50 is fixed to the second profile 4 by passing through opposing holes 42' and 43' of the respective flanges 42 and 43. The connecting shaft 50 is, for example, a smooth rod with threads at its end. For example, the fixing is accomplished by a key engagement system. The actuation system 5A is fixed near the distal end of the second profile 4.

[0069] In addition, for guidance system 5B ( Figure 1 , 4 and Figure 9-11 ,as well as Figure 12 and 17-19), each flange 42 and 43 of the second profile 4 has at least one elongated hole 46 facing an elongated hole in another flange. The elongated hole 46 accommodates a guide member 5' in the form of a guide shaft. The guide shaft 5' passes through the elongated hole 46 and protrudes beyond the flanges 42 and 43 of the second profile 4, and its two ends are fixed to the vertical flanges 32 and 33 of the first profile 3. To fix the guide shaft 5', each vertical flange 32 and 33 of the first profile 3 has a hole 34 so that the end of the guide shaft 5' passes through these holes 34 and is fixed with bolts. The elongated shape of the hole 46 of the second profile 4 allows the guide shaft 5' to move along the hole and thus also allows the second profile 4 to move. The elongated hole 46 of the second profile 4 is inclined relative to the vertical direction (or relative to the longitudinal direction) of the flange. The inclination allows the lowest point to face the side where the fastening actuating member 6 is located. The inclined elongated hole 46 is referred to as an inclined elongated hole. The length of the elongated holes 46 of the second profile 4 matches the stroke of the second profile 4 as it moves vertically from its high position to its low position to secure the photovoltaic module. The staggered position of the elongated holes 46 is independent of the position and length of the photovoltaic module, but depends on the relative rigidity of the profiles 3 and 4. It is approximately one meter. Therefore, multiple elongated holes 46 are provided, and each pair of opposing elongated holes is equipped with a guide shaft 5'. Each pair of inclined elongated holes 46 of the second profile 4 faces a pair of vertical elongated holes 34 of the first profile 3 and mates with the guide shaft 5'. As for the actuation system 5A, it also has a connector 51 that connects the connecting shaft 50 to the fastening member 6 and is arranged inside the first profile 3 and the second profile 4. This connector 51 is, for example, a U-shaped plate with a web 52 and two flanges 53; the flanges 53 support the connecting shaft 50 through through holes 54, while the web 52 is connected (immovably) to the end 60 of the fastening member 6, opposite the distal end 36 of the first profile 3.

[0070] The fastening member 6 is specifically a screw with a threaded shank, having an end 60 and an opposing fastening head 61. A non-limiting example of the mechanical coupling of the fastening member 6 to the end of the first profile 3 and the second profile 4 is given below. The end 60 passes through the web 52 of the connector 51. A nut 62 is tightened onto the end 60 of the threaded shank 6 and welded to the web 52 of the connector 51. The threaded shank 6 of the fastening member or screw passes through a stop surface 7. The fastening head 61 of the fastening member 6 is located outside the first profile 3 so that it can be accessed. Furthermore, the threaded shank 6 includes a locking nut 63 welded to the threaded shank and disposed on the other side of the stop surface 7, inside the first profile 3. The locking nut 63 is opposite the fastening head to the stop surface 7. Furthermore, a gap is left between the locking nut 63 and the stop surface 7 to allow the threaded shank 6 and the connector 51 to rotate in a vertical plane during vertical translation of the second profile 4. The fastening head 61 can be tightened or loosened, which causes the threaded rod 6 to move toward or in the opposite direction toward the distal end 36 of the first profile 3, and drives the connector 51 and the connecting shaft 50 connected to the second profile 4 to translate along the longitudinal direction of the first profile. Additionally, the guide shaft 5', or each guide shaft (depending on the length of the profile) when multiple guide shafts 5' exist, slides in the paired or each pair of elongated holes 46 of the second profile, which drives the second profile 4 to move perfectly, i.e., simultaneously translating longitudinally and vertically. Therefore, when the fastening member 6 is in the fully loosened state, the guide shaft 5' is below the elongated hole 46 (…). Figure 9 In the first embodiment, the flanges 42 and 43 of the second profile 4 and their fastening flanges 40 are in a close proximity state. Figure 2 A space is left above the support flange 30. When the fastening member 6 is in the fully tightened state, the fastening head 61 of the fastening member abuts against the support surface 7, and the guide shaft 5' faces the top of the elongated hole 46. Figure 10 ), wherein the flanges 42 and 43 of the second profile 4 are in an idle or completely separated state (see Figure 3 Its fastening flange 40 holds the photovoltaic modules 2A and 2B in place by clamping them.

[0071] exist Figure 8 and Figure 9In the specific embodiment shown, device 1 preferably has a key 8 that engages with guide shaft 5' to lock its position (when it is in the high position in elongated hole 46) when fastening member 6 is fully fastened and fastening flange 40 is thus in the photovoltaic module clamping state, thereby preventing accidental movement of guide shaft 5' and loosening of photovoltaic modules 2A, 2B, for example, in cases where strong winds or even typhoons may cause vibration of the photovoltaic module support structure. Key 8 is placed inside the second profile 4, fixed and rotatably hinged about axis 80 located near web 31 of the second profile 4, while surrounding the guide member or guide shaft 5' so as to be synchronously driven when the second profile moves from a low position to a high position, and vice versa. The axis 80 of key 8 passes, for example, through hole 47 arranged in the second profile flanges 42 and 43 (… Figure 4 It is fixed and simultaneously abuts against the inner sides of the vertical wing plates 32 and 33 of the first profile 3 below the guide shaft 5'.

[0072] The device 1 is used as follows: At least two first profiles 3 are fixed to the support structure S, with a spacing equal to the width of the photovoltaic module, such as 2A ( Figure 11 In particular, the first profile is secured by fixing the web 31 of the first profile. Loosening the fastening member 6 allows the second profile 4, housed within the first profile 3, to be in its elevated position; the fastening flange 40 then shifts inward toward the second profile 4 and the first profile 3, and vertically relative to the inner end of the supporting flange 30, which completely clears the space above the supporting flange 30. Figure 2 The installer places at least one photovoltaic module 2A, 2B on each support flange 30, specifically by moving it vertically. The installer places multiple photovoltaic modules 2A, 2C, etc., along the first profile 3. Finally, the installer positions themselves at the fastening member 6 on the distal end 36 of the first profile 3 and tightens the fastening member 6, causing the second profile 4 to translate. During this translation, the contour (opening downwards) of the narrow end 35 of the first profile guides the ribs 44 of the second profile 4, whereby the ribs abut against the vertical flanges 32 and 33 of the first profile 3. Along the downwardly expanding contour of the end 35, the constraint on the ribs 44 gradually decreases, while the flanges 42 and 43 of the second profile 4, which were originally close together, gradually separate. Figure 11 Simultaneously, the fastening flange 40 is pulled toward the supporting flange 30. The installer fully tightens the fastening component 6 by clamping ( Figure 3 The fastening flange 40 is positioned at a right angle against the photovoltaic module, simultaneously abutting the top surface and sides of the module; thereby stopping and securing the module.

[0073] The second embodiment of the first and second profiles 3 and 4 will now be described.

[0074] Advantageously, the second profile 4 is designed to rotate to tilt relative to either side of the first profile 3. Figure 12 And it can move vertically inside the first profile. Therefore, the second profile 4 adopts the following: - Each fastening flange 40 (in sequence) Figure 12 As shown by the dashed line and in Figure 17 In the so-called retracted position (as shown), the second profile 4 is tilted toward the flange side of the first profile 3, causing one of its fastening flanges 40 to shift inward toward the interior of the second profile 4 and vertically relative to the support flange 30 located directly below. This allows the installer to place the first component 2A on the support flange 30 without worrying about the second profile 4, thus the second profile does not cause any interference. The component can be placed in any direction, specifically in a vertical direction from top to bottom. The retracted position of the fastening flange 40 corresponds to the high position of the second profile 4. After tilting the second profile 4 to one side to install the first component 2A, the second profile 4 is tilted to the other side to make vertical space for the support flange 30 of the opposing first profile 3 and to install the second component 2B. Then the second profile 4 can return to its idle position ( Figure 13 ); -The so-called fastening position ( Figure 12 and Figure 19 After the two components 2A and 2B are installed, the fastening flange 30 is arranged parallel to and face-to-face with the supporting flange 40 to fasten the top surface of the components. The fastening position of the fastening flange 40 corresponds to the lower position of the second profile 4.

[0075] More specifically, the first profile 3 ( Figure 15 The overall shape of the first profile is U-shaped. When installed on the supporting structure, the U-shaped opening of the first profile faces upward (opposite to the supporting structure, or to the ground). The first profile 3 has a web 31, two opposing vertical flanges 32 and 33, which are parallel and face to face, and also has two supporting flanges 30. The first profile 3 is constructed, for example, by means of angle iron E ( Figure 12 and 19 The angle iron is fixed to the supporting structure S, and is connected to the flanges 32 and 33 near the web 31 by a bolt fixing system S', preferably through an axis 3' that intersects the longitudinal direction of the profile and passes through the flange via fixing holes 3''. Figure 14The first profile 3 (U-shaped) opens in the direction opposite to the web 31. Two support flanges 30 are connected to the free ends of their respective two vertical flanges 32 and 33, opposite to the web 31, and their orientations are opposite (towards the exterior of the profile). Each support flange 30 has a surface perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the associated flange (and thus parallel to the web 31). Preferably, each support flange 30 has a flange 30' bent perpendicularly to the web 31 to enhance the rigidity of the support flange 30 used for supporting components. In the example shown (optional and by no means limiting), the first profile 3 has an additional U-shaped profile 30'' with a lower height in addition to the flange 30', serving as a rain gutter. The thickness of the first profile 3 is particularly between 1.5 mm and 2.5 mm, depending on the size and climatic requirements. The first profile 3 is preferably made of galvanized steel.

[0076] Each vertical flange 32 and 33 preferably includes at least one hole 34, preferably two holes spaced apart along the length of the profile according to its length, for fixing the shaft 5' thereto by bolts. The shaft forms a guide member of the guide system 5B, passing through the inner width of the first profile 3 and the inner width of the second profile 4. Advantageously, the hole 34 ( Figure 14 The vertical elongated hole 34 is a vertically elongated shape and has a vertical longitudinal axis (i.e., vertical direction) relative to the first profile 3. The vertical elongated hole 34 is located at the lower half height of the flanges 32 and 33, and the upper half height of the flanges is connected to the web 30. The vertical elongated hole 34 is located below the rainwater trough 30''.

[0077] Furthermore, the support flange 30 is preferably generally perpendicular to the vertical flanges 32 and 33, while slightly inclined downward (towards the plane of the web 31), which helps rainwater flow into the rainwater channel 30''.

[0078] Second profile 4 ( Figure 12 and Figure 16 The overall shape of the second profile 4 is U-shaped. It has a web 41 and two flanges 42 and 43 connected to the web 41, the flanges being arranged parallel and face-to-face at intervals. It also has two fastening flanges 40 at the free ends of the respective flanges, opposite to the web 41, and their directions are opposite (towards the outside of the profile). The thickness of the flanges 42 and 43 of the second profile 4 is advantageously between 1.5 mm and 2.5 mm. The second profile 4 is made of metal, preferably galvanized steel.

[0079] Each flange 42 and 43 of the second profile has an end 44', 45 opposite the web 41, which is inclined relative to the rest of the flange by flaring outwards and connected to the fastening flange 40. Thus, the U-shaped tip of the second profile 4 is flared, which facilitates assembly installation and removal when the operator tilts the second profile toward one of the flanges of the first profile and therefore also toward one of the already installed components. This flare prevents the tilted second profile 4 from abutting against the already installed component, such as... Figure 12 The second profile 4 is shown in a tilted position, indicated by dashed lines. By tilting the second profile 4 to one side, the opposite fastening flange 40 turns into the U-shape of the first profile 3 and shifts vertically inward relative to the flange 32 of the first profile 3, thereby creating an accommodating space above the supporting flange 30 of the first profile 3, which is associated with the flange 32. This allows the first photovoltaic module 2A to be placed vertically and arranged on the supporting flange 30 without any obstruction. After the first module is placed, the operator tilts the second profile 4 to the other side, creating an accommodating space above the supporting flange 30, which is associated with the other flange 33. This allows the second photovoltaic module 2B to be placed vertically and arranged on the supporting flange.

[0080] When it is necessary to remove the photovoltaic modules (e.g., for maintenance), the second profile 4 is raised relative to the interior of the first profile 3 (from a low position to a high position) to allow it to move. The operator then tilts the second profile 4 to one side to remove one of the modules, which can be done by removing it vertically directly; then the second profile is tilted to the other side so that the second module can be removed vertically directly again.

[0081] Similar to the first embodiment of the profile, in the second embodiment, the guide shaft 5', or each guide shaft (depending on the length of the profile) when multiple guide shafts 5' exist, slides in the paired or each pair of inclined elongated holes 46 of the second profile. This causes the second profile 4 to move perfectly, i.e., simultaneously translate longitudinally and vertically. Therefore, when the fastening member 6 is in the fully loosened state and the second profile 4 is in the inclined state, the guide shaft 5' is below the elongated hole 46. Figure 17 A space is left above the support flange 30 of the first profile 3 to accommodate the first component on one side. When the fastening member 6 is in the fully tightened state, the fastening head 61 of the fastening member abuts against the support surface 7, and the guide shaft 5' faces the top of the inclined elongated hole 46. Figure 18 The fastening flange 40 of the second profile 4 holds the photovoltaic modules 2A and 2B against them by clamping them.

[0082] Figures 17 to 19 This schematically illustrates another example of the mechanical coupling between the fastening member 6 and the second profile 4. Figure 8 The examples in the text are different.

[0083] In the second embodiment of the profile, the device 1 is used as follows: at least two first profiles 3 are fixed to the support structure S with a spacing equal to the width of the photovoltaic module, such as 2A, particularly by fixing the web 31 of the first profiles. The fastening member 6 is then loosened, allowing the second profile 4, housed within the first profile 3, to be in a position... Figure 19 The idle position. The operator manually rotates the second profile 4 towards one side of a flange of the first profile 3, as follows. Figure 12 As shown by the dashed line, the second profile 4 is in Figure 17 As shown in the diagram, the second profile 4 tilts towards one of the flanges (e.g., flange 33) of the first profile, allowing the second profile to separate from the opposing flange 32 of the first profile. This causes the associated fastening flange 40 of the second profile to move closer to the U-shape of the second profile (while simultaneously shifting it perpendicular to the flange 32 of the first profile into the U-shape), freeing up the entire space above the associated supporting flange 30 of the first profile. The installer then places the photovoltaic module 2A on the supporting flange 30, specifically by moving it vertically. The installer then manually rotates the second profile 4 to the other side, freeing up space above the other supporting flange 30 of the first profile. The installer then places multiple photovoltaic modules 2A, 2C, etc., along the first profile 3. Finally, the installer positions themselves at the fastening member 6 on the distal end 36 of the first profile 3 (as in the first embodiment of the profile) and tightens the fastening member 6, causing the second profile 4 to move both vertically and longitudinally, which brings the fastening flange 40 closer to the modules 2A, 2B, etc. The installer fully tightened the fastening component 6, using the clamp ( Figure 12 and Figure 18 The fastening flange 40 is positioned at a right angle against the photovoltaic module, simultaneously abutting the top surface and sides of the module; thereby stopping and securing the module.

Claims

1. A photovoltaic module fixing device (1), comprising a first profile (3) and a second profile (4) that cooperates with the first profile (3). - The first profile (3) has a U-shaped cross section and includes a web (31), two parallel and opposite vertical flanges (32, 33) extending vertically from the web, and two so-called support flanges (30) extending vertically from the vertical flanges (32, 33) in opposite directions away from the web (31) and toward the outside; - The second profile (4) has a U-shaped cross section and includes a web (41), two parallel and opposite flanges (42, 43), and two fastening flanges (40) that extend vertically from the flanges (42, 43) of the second profile in opposite directions away from the web (41) and toward the outside. - The second profile (4) is housed in the U-shaped opening of the first profile (3) such that the fastening flange (40) of the second profile is spaced apart from the supporting flange (30) of the first profile, and the device has an actuation system (5A) that mechanically connects the second profile (4) to the first profile (3). -The actuation system (5A) includes a single fastening member (6), characterized in that, There is only one fastening member (6) and it is arranged at the far end (36) of the first profile (3). The actuation system (5A) is able to make the second profile (4) move longitudinally along the longitudinal direction of the first profile when the fastening member (6) is actuated, and at the same time, it can move vertically in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second profile (4) has flexible flanges (42, 43) and, on each of the flanges, symmetrically and at a distance from the fastening flange, includes ribs (44) protruding outward from the second profile. Preferably, each of the ribs (44) has a generally triangular cross section.

3. The apparatus according to the preceding claims, characterized in that, Under the so-called constrained state of the flanges (42, 43) of the second profile (4), the fastening flanges (40) of the second profile are arranged side by side and offset perpendicular to the U-shaped opening of the first profile, and no longer face the supporting flanges (30).

4. The apparatus according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The vertical flanges (32, 33) of the first profile (3) are spaced apart, the space narrowing at the plane of the supporting flange (30), the narrowing being achieved by the vertical flanges converging inward at their so-called top (35).

5. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second profile (4) can be manually tilted from either side toward one of the flanges (32, 33) of the first profile (3), such that the fastening flange (40) of one of the flanges of the second profile is offset inside the U-shape of the first profile (3) without going over the support flange (30) immediately adjacent to the first profile (3).

6. The apparatus according to the preceding claim, characterized in that, The first profile (3) has at least one pair of elongated holes (34) opposite to its flanges (32, 33), wherein each of the elongated holes (34), referred to as vertical elongated holes, has a longitudinal axis that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first profile.

7. The apparatus according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that, Each wing of the second profile (4) has an end (44', 45') opposite to the web (41), which is inclined relative to the rest of the wing by flaring outward and connected to the fastening flange (40).

8. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, Each wing (42, 43) of the second profile (4) includes at least a pair of facing elongated holes (46), wherein each of the elongated holes (46) is inclined relative to the longitudinal axis of the second profile, i.e., inclined from the so-called lower end to the opposite so-called higher end, the lower end of the inclined elongated holes (46) being on the fastening member (6) side, and the device having at least one guide member (5'), such as a guide shaft, which is connected to the two vertical wing (32, 33) of the first profile (3) and is slidable in the pair of elongated holes (46) of the second profile.

9. The apparatus according to the preceding claim, characterized in that, The device has a key (8) that locks the guide member (5') in the fastening position of the fastening member (6).

10. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The actuation system (5A) has a connecting shaft (50) that is fixed to the wing plates (42, 43) of the second profile, and a connector (51) that connects the connecting shaft (50) to the fastening member (6).

11. The apparatus according to the preceding claim, characterized in that, The fastening member (6) is a screw with a threaded rod, which includes a fastening head (61) and an opposing end (60), the end (60) being connected to the connector (51) of the actuation system (5A), and the fastening head (61) being able to abut against a stop surface (7) connected to the distal end (36) of the first profile (3) in its fastened position.

12. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The fastening member (6) engages with the stop surface (7) in the fastened state. The stop surface extends in a plane intersecting the longitudinal direction of the first profile and is located at the far end of the first profile.

13. A method of using the apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims for fixing a plurality of photovoltaic modules (2A, 2C; 2B, 2D) along both sides (10, 11) of the apparatus, characterized in that... The method includes the following steps: -Loosen the single fastening member (6); - The installer places at least one photovoltaic module on each of the support flanges (30), specifically by moving it up and down along the vertical direction; - Installers can place multiple photovoltaic modules along the device; - The installer positions himself at the fastening member (6) located on the far end (36) of the first profile and tightens the fastening member (6) so that the second profile (4) moves longitudinally along the longitudinal direction of the first profile and moves vertically in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, thereby pulling the fastening flange (40) toward the supporting flange (30). - The installer fully tightens the fastening component (6) and clamps it so that the fastening flange (40) is at a right angle against the photovoltaic module.

14. The method of using the apparatus according to claims 2 to 4, characterized in that, - Loosen the fastening member (6) so that the second profile (4) housed in the first profile (3) is in a position in which the fastening flange (40), which is separated from the support flange (30), is offset toward the interior of the second profile and the interior of the first profile, and is offset vertically relative to the so-called inner end of the support flange, so that the space above the support flange is completely vacated; - The installer places at least one photovoltaic module on each of the support flanges (30), specifically by moving it up and down along the vertical direction; - Installers can place multiple photovoltaic modules along the device; - The installer fully tightens the fastening member (6), which causes the second profile (4) to translate and pull the fastening flange toward the support flange by simultaneously separating the fastening flanges (40) from each other and bringing the fastening flanges closer to the support flange (30); - The installer fully tightens the fastening component (6) and clamps it so that the fastening flange (40) is at a right angle against the photovoltaic module.

15. The method of using the apparatus according to claims 5 to 7 as described in claim 13, characterized in that: - After the fastening member (6) is loosened, the installer manually tilts the second profile (4) toward one side of a wing of the first profile (3), so that the fastening flange (40) of one of the wings of the second profile is offset inside the first profile (3) without exceeding the upper part of the supporting flange (30) adjacent to the first profile (3), so that the space above the supporting flange is completely cleared. - The installer places the photovoltaic module on the support flange (30), and there is no fastening flange of the second profile above it. Specifically, the photovoltaic module can be placed directly in the vertical direction by moving from top to bottom. - The installer manually tilts the second profile (4) toward the other side of the already placed component, thereby freeing up space above the other support flange (30) of the other wing of the first profile, and then the installer places another photovoltaic module on the other support flange; - Installers can place multiple photovoltaic modules along the device at a time by tilting the second profile (4) to one side; - The installer places the second profile (4) back into a position perpendicular to the interior of the first profile (3) and positions it at the fastening member (6), specifically the fastening member being positioned at the far end (36) of the first profile. Then, the fastening member (6) is tightened, which causes the second profile (4) to translate and pulls the fastening flange (40) toward the supporting flange (30). - The installer fully tightens the fastening component (6) and clamps it so that the fastening flange (40) is at a right angle against the photovoltaic module.

Images