Mounting device, especially for mounting photovoltaic modules

Abstract

The invention relates to a mounting device (10a, 10'a, 10''a, 10'''a; 10b, 10'b), in particular for mounting photovoltaic modules (12a, 12'a, 12''a, 12'''a; 12b), with at least one, in particular horizontal, tension element (14a; 14b), in particular tension tube, and with at least two mounting leg elements (16a, 18a; 16b, 18b) for a mounted receptacle for at least one photovoltaic module (12a, 12'a, 12''a, 12'''a; 12b), which together with the horizontal tension element (14a; 14b) enclose a triangle. It is proposed that at least the two support leg elements (16a, 18a; 16b, 18b) are designed as one piece.

Description

State of the art

[0001] The invention relates to a mounting device, in particular for mounting photovoltaic modules.

[0002] A support device, in particular for supporting photovoltaic modules, with at least one, in particular horizontal, tension element, in particular a tension tube, and with at least two support leg elements for supporting at least one photovoltaic module in a supported manner, which together with the horizontal tension element enclose a triangle, has already been proposed.

[0003] The object of the invention is, in particular, to provide a generic device with improved properties in terms of stability and manufacturability. This object is achieved according to the invention by the features of patent claim 1, while advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention can be found in the subclaims. Advantages of the invention

[0004] The invention is based on a support device, in particular for supporting photovoltaic modules, with at least one, in particular horizontal, tension element, in particular tension tube, and with at least two support leg elements for a supported receptacle of at least one photovoltaic module, which together with the horizontal tension element enclose a triangle.

[0005] It is proposed that the at least two support leg elements be formed as a single piece. The at least two support leg elements are preferably not only made of one piece, but also as a single piece. In particular, it would be conceivable for the at least two support leg elements to be additionally connected via a further connection. However, the support leg elements are preferably formed as only one piece, with the single-piece connection representing the only direct connection between the support leg elements.

[0006] In this context, a "support device" should be understood to mean, in particular, a device that serves as at least part of a substructure for fastening and supporting photovoltaic modules, in particular on roofs, particularly preferably on flat roofs. The support device is intended, in particular, for supporting and fixing photovoltaic modules, wherein an angle of inclination of the photovoltaic modules relative to a substrate is adapted. Preferably, an angle between a substrate and a main extension plane of a photovoltaic module, in particular an angle between the surface normals, is at least 10°, preferably at least 20°. The support device can be equipped on both sides, in particular for an east-west or north-south orientation of the photovoltaic modules, or only on one side for a south orientation, west orientation, east orientation, or north orientation.The support device forms in particular a gable roof construction, whereby the support leg elements form rafters and the tension element takes on the function of a tension band.

[0007] Furthermore, in this context, a “tension element” should be understood in particular to mean an element, preferably an elongated profile, which is at least partially intended to absorb tensile forces between the outer ends of the support leg elements. The tension element is preferably intended to be arranged parallel to a substructure. The tension element particularly functions as a tension band. The tension element preferably consists of an extruded profile or a rolled profile. In this context, a “support leg element” should be understood in particular to mean an element, preferably an elongated profile, which forms a leg of the support device. The support leg element particularly forms a rafter of the support device. The support leg elements, together with the horizontal tension element, form a triangle.The triangle is formed in particular by an isosceles triangle, with support leg elements each limiting one leg side and the tension element limiting the base side.

[0008] "One-piece" is understood to mean, in particular, molded in one piece. This single piece is preferably produced from a single blank, a mass, and / or a cast, particularly preferably using an injection molding process, in particular a single- and / or multi-component injection molding process, a rolling process, or an extrusion process.

[0009] "Intended" should be understood in particular to mean specifically programmed, designed, and / or equipped. The fact that an object is intended for a specific function should be understood in particular to mean that the object fulfills and / or performs this specific function in at least one application and / or operating state.

[0010] The inventive design of the support device makes it possible to provide, in particular, an advantageously stable support device. Furthermore, a support device that is advantageously easy to manufacture and / or easy to assemble can be provided. Furthermore, the number of components can be advantageously kept low.

[0011] It is further proposed that the at least two support leg elements consist at least largely of a hollow profile, in particular of an aluminum hollow profile. Preferably, the support leg elements each consist at least largely of a hollow profile with a rectangular, hollow cross-section. Preferably, the support leg elements each consist at least largely of an extruded profile, in particular an aluminum extruded profile or a stainless steel extruded profile, or a rolled profile, in particular a aluminum rolled profile or a stainless steel rolled profile. The at least two support leg elements together consist, in particular, of exactly one hollow profile. The at least two support leg elements are formed as a continuous unit.The expression "at least to a large extent" should be understood to mean in particular at least 55%, advantageously at least 65%, preferably at least 75%, particularly preferably at least 85%, and particularly advantageously at least 95%. It is conceivable that further attachments of the support leg elements are arranged on the hollow profile. Alternatively, however, it would also be conceivable for the support leg elements to consist entirely of a hollow profile. This makes it particularly advantageous to provide stable yet lightweight support leg elements. In particular, a support device that is advantageously easy to assemble can be provided.

[0012] Furthermore, it is proposed that the hollow profile be bent, in particular kinked, at a ridge point of the support leg elements, wherein the hollow profile has a triangular recess in a region close to the ridge point, wherein at least one outer fiber of the hollow profile is designed to be continuous in the ridge point of the support leg elements. Preferably, the hollow profile has four boundary walls which form the rectangular cross-section of the hollow profile. The four boundary walls are each arranged in particular on four mutually perpendicular sides of the hollow profile. The four boundary walls consist of a base wall, two side walls and a ceiling wall. Preferably, the ceiling wall is bent and designed to be continuous at the ridge point of the support leg elements.The ceiling wall forms, in particular, the outer fiber of the hollow profile at the ridge point of the support leg elements, which is of continuous design. It would also be conceivable for only part of the cross-section of the ceiling wall to be of continuous design. The triangular recess relates, in particular, to a stretched, unbent state of the hollow profile. The triangular recess consists, in particular, of a congruent, triangular recess in each of the two side walls and a rectangular recess in the bottom wall connecting the triangular recesses in the side walls. After bending, the recess is, in particular, at least substantially closed. The hollow profile is, in particular, bent such that opposite edges of the triangular recess abut one another. The hollow profile is, in particular, designed like a film hinge.In this context, a "near area" is understood to mean, in particular, a spatial area that preferably extends with a radius of a maximum of 20 cm, preferably a maximum of 10 cm, and particularly preferably a maximum of 5 cm around a geometric center of the ridge point. Preferably, the minimum distance between the ridge point and the recess is a maximum of 10 cm, preferably a maximum of 7 cm, and more preferably a maximum of 3 cm.

[0013] In this context, a "ridge point" is understood to mean, in particular, the point at which the support leg elements converge at their highest point. Preferably, this refers in particular to the apex between the two legs of the triangle formed by the two support leg elements and the tension element. This allows the support leg elements to advantageously form a ridge while simultaneously being constructed in one piece. In particular, it is advantageous to provide a simple connection between the support leg elements. In particular, both support leg elements can advantageously be made from the same hollow profile.

[0014] It is further proposed that the horizontal tension element be integrally connected to the at least two support leg elements. Preferably, the tension element is connected at each of its two outer ends to one end of the support leg elements. Preferably, the tension element is connected to the at least two support leg elements via a welded connection. Alternatively, it would also be conceivable for the tension element to be connected to the at least two support leg elements via a mechanical connection, such as a screw connection, a rivet connection, a plug connection, or the like.“Integral” should be understood in particular to mean at least materially connected, for example by a welding process, an adhesive process, an injection molding process and / or another process that appears appropriate to a person skilled in the art, and / or advantageously formed in one piece, such as by production from a single casting and / or by production using a single or multi-component injection molding process and advantageously from a single blank. Advantageously, “integral” should also be understood to mean one-piece. This makes it particularly advantageous to provide stable and at the same time lightweight support leg elements. In particular, a support device that is advantageously easy to assemble can be provided. Furthermore, the number of components can advantageously be kept low.

[0015] It is further proposed that the at least two support leg elements each have at least one fastening recess in the vicinity of a ridge point, which fastening recess is intended to partially receive a frame of a photovoltaic module in a form-fitting manner. The photovoltaic module can preferably be pushed into the fastening recess. The fastening recess preferably comprises a transverse slot, at the end of which a short longitudinal slot is located at right angles, wherein the photovoltaic module can be suspended into the longitudinal slot via the transverse slot and is held in a form-fitting manner. The fastening recess is intended in particular for the form-fitting reception of a frame of the photovoltaic module. “Form-fitting” is to be understood in particular as meaning that abutting surfaces of components that are connected to one another in a form-fitting manner exert a holding force on one another that acts in the normal direction of the surfaces.In particular, the components are geometrically aligned with one another. This eliminates the need for screwing the photovoltaic module, especially in close proximity. Furthermore, the number of components can be advantageously kept to a minimum.

[0016] It is further proposed that the at least two support leg elements each have at least one fastening element in an eaves region for screwing to a photovoltaic module. The fastening element is formed in particular by a fastening angle. However, other designs of the fastening element that appear expedient to a person skilled in the art are also conceivable. In this context, an “eaves region” is to be understood in particular as a region of a lower edge of the support leg elements. Preferably, this is to be understood in particular as a region of the tip between one of the legs and the base side of the triangle formed by the two support leg elements and the tension element. The eaves region is preferably provided to support a lower edge of a photovoltaic module. Preferably, an eave of the roof-shaped support device is arranged in the eaves region.This makes it possible to achieve, in particular, an advantageously reliable and secure attachment of a photovoltaic module. Furthermore, it is possible to ensure that the photovoltaic module only needs to be screwed on one side. This advantageously simplifies the attachment process.

[0017] It is further proposed that the support device has at least one retaining tab which is arranged on the tension element and which is intended to be connected, in particular screwed, to a load point. Preferably, the at least one retaining tab is arranged on at least one end of the tension element and is intended to be connected, in particular screwed, to a load point. The load point serves in particular to anchor the support device. Preferably, the support device has at least two retaining tabs, which are each arranged at opposite ends of the tension element and are in particular intended to be connected, in particular screwed, to different load points. Preferably, the at least one retaining tab has at least one fastening shoe for a connection to the tension element and at least one fastening strap for a connection to the load point.The retaining tab is particularly formed as a single piece. The retaining tab is preferably made of a metal material. This allows for particularly advantageous fastening of the support device.

[0018] It is further proposed that the tension element consists at least largely of a hollow profile, in particular of a hollow aluminum profile. The tension element preferably consists of a hollow profile with a rectangular, hollow cross-section. The tension element preferably consists at least largely of an extruded aluminum profile. It is conceivable that further attachments of the tension element are arranged on the hollow profile. Alternatively, however, it would also be conceivable for the tension element to consist entirely of a hollow profile. This makes it possible to provide, in particular, a tension element that is advantageously stable and at the same time lightweight. In particular, a tension element that is advantageously easy to assemble can be provided.

[0019] Furthermore, the invention is based on a photovoltaic system with at least two support devices and at least one photovoltaic module mounted on the support devices. Preferably, the photovoltaic system also has at least two load points.

[0020] Furthermore, the invention is based on a method for producing the support device. It is proposed that the method comprise a provision step in which a hollow profile is provided for producing the at least two support leg elements, a recessing step in which the hollow profile is provided with a recess open to one side, in particular a triangular recess, at a ridge point of the support leg elements, and a bending step in which the hollow profile is bent at the ridge point of the support leg elements in such a way that the recess is substantially closed. Preferably, the triangular recess is introduced in a stretched, unbent state of the hollow profile.The triangular recess consists in particular of a congruent triangular recess in each of the two side walls and a rectangular recess in the bottom wall connecting the triangular recess in the side walls. After bending, the recess is in particular at least substantially closed. The hollow profile is in particular kinked or bent in such a way that opposite edges of the triangular recess abut one another. An angle between the legs of the triangular recess therefore defines the angle between the support leg elements in a bent state of the hollow profile. This makes it possible to provide, in particular, an advantageous method for producing the support device. In particular, an advantageously rapid method can be provided in which the number of assembly steps can be advantageously kept low.

[0021] It is further proposed that the recess, in particular a triangular one, be created by laser cutting during the recessing step. Alternatively or additionally, however, other methods that appear appropriate to a person skilled in the art, in particular machining and / or cutting methods, are also conceivable for producing the recess. This, in particular, makes it possible to provide an advantageous method for producing the support device.

[0022] It is further proposed that, in a connecting step, the horizontal tension element is connected to the at least two support leg elements by means of a welded connection. Preferably, the tension element is welded at each of its two outer ends to one end of the support leg elements. Alternatively, it would also be conceivable for the tension element to be connected to the at least two support leg elements via a mechanical connection, such as a screw connection, a rivet connection, a plug connection, or the like. This makes it particularly advantageous to provide stable and simultaneously lightweight support leg elements. In particular, a support device that is advantageously easy to assemble can be provided. Furthermore, the number of components can advantageously be kept low.

[0023] The support device according to the invention, the photovoltaic system, and the method for producing the support device are not intended to be limited to the application and embodiment described above. In particular, the support device according to the invention, the photovoltaic system, and the method for producing the support device can have a number of individual elements, components, and units as well as method steps that differs from the number stated herein in order to fulfill a functionality described herein. Furthermore, in the value ranges specified in this disclosure, values within the stated limits are also to be considered disclosed and can be used arbitrarily. Drawings

[0024] Further advantages will become apparent from the following description of the drawings. The drawings illustrate an exemplary embodiment of the invention. The drawings, the description, and the claims contain numerous features in combination. Those skilled in the art will also expediently consider the features individually and combine them into useful further combinations.

[0025] They show: Fig. 1 A photovoltaic system with four mounting devices according to the invention, with four photovoltaic modules mounted on the mounting devices and with six load points in a schematic, perspective view, Fig. 2 the photovoltaic system with the four mounting devices according to the invention, with the four photovoltaic modules mounted on the mounting devices and with the six load points in a schematic side view, Fig. 3 the four support devices according to the invention, and the six Load points in a schematic, perspective view, Fig. 4 the two support devices according to the invention, and the four load points in a schematic side view, Fig. 5 a partial section of the photovoltaic system with the four support devices according to the invention, each of which has a retaining tab, Fig. 6 a partial section of one of the support devices with two Support leg elements in a schematic representation, Fig. 7 a partial section of one of the support devices with two support leg elements in a schematic side view before bending, Fig. 8 is a schematic flow diagram of a method for producing the support device according to the invention, Fig. 9 an alternative photovoltaic system with two alternative support devices according to the invention, with a photovoltaic module before installation and with four load points in a schematic, perspective view and Fig. 10 a partial section of one of the alternative support devices according to the invention with a support leg element and a tension element in a schematic exploded view. Description of the embodiments

[0026] The Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 show a photovoltaic system 42a with four support devices 10a, 10'a, 10''a, 10'''a, with four photovoltaic modules 12a, 12'a, 12''a, 12'''a mounted on the support devices 10a, 10'a, 10''a, 10'''a and with six load points 40a.

[0027] The load points 40a are identically designed. The load points 40a are each formed, for example, from concrete blocks. However, depending on the arrangement and design of the photovoltaic system 42a, other designs of the load points 40a that would be deemed appropriate by a person skilled in the art are also conceivable. The load points 40a are each arranged in pairs of two load points 40a, with one load point 40a being arranged at each end of a support device 10a, 10'a, 10''a, 10'''a, and with only one common load point 40a being arranged between each end of the support devices 10a, 10'a, 10''a, 10'''a.

[0028] The photovoltaic modules 12a, 12'a, 12''a, 12'''a preferably have a surrounding frame 52a, which serves to protect and secure the photovoltaic modules 12a, 12'a, 12''a, 12'''a. The photovoltaic modules 12a, 12'a, 12''a, 12'''a are each mounted on two support devices 10a, 10'a, 10''a, 10'''a. Two support devices 10a, 10'a, 10''a, 10'''a arranged parallel to one another form, in particular, a support structure for two photovoltaic modules 12a, 12'a, 12''a, 12'''a, which are mounted in a roof-like manner. However, it would also be conceivable that two support devices 10a, 10'a, 10''a, 10'''a arranged parallel to one another are only provided for supporting one photovoltaic module 12a, 12'a, 12''a, 12'''a or are only used for supporting one photovoltaic module 12a, 12'a, 12''a, 12'''a.The support devices 10a, 10'a, 10''a, 10'''a can therefore be used in particular for both an east-west support and a south-facing support (. Fig. 1, Fig. 2).

[0029] The support devices 10a, 10'a, 10''a, 10'''a are identically constructed. For the sake of clarity, only the first support device 10a is provided with all reference numerals in the drawings. The corresponding features and components are of course also applicable to the other support devices 10'a, 10''a, 10'''a. The support devices 10a, 10'a, 10''a, 10'''a are intended for supporting photovoltaic modules 12a, 12'a, 12''a, 12'''a. Two support devices 10a, 10'a, 10''a, 10'''a are preferably always required to support one photovoltaic module 12a, 12'a, 12''a, 12'''a. The support devices 10a, 10'a, 10''a, 10'''a each have a horizontal tension element 14a. In the following, only the tension element 14a of the first support device 10a is described, although the description is of course also applicable to the other support devices 10'a, 10''a, 10'''a.The horizontal tension element 14a is formed by a tension tube. The tension element 14a consists at least for the most part of a hollow profile. The tension element 14a consists of an aluminum hollow profile. The tension element 14a consists of a hollow profile with a rectangular, hollow cross-section. The tension element 14a consists of an aluminum extruded profile. Alternatively, it would also be conceivable for the tension element 14a to consist of a stainless steel extruded profile or a rolled profile, in particular an aluminum rolled profile or a stainless steel rolled profile. The tension element 14a consists entirely of the hollow profile. The tension element 14a is intended to be arranged parallel to a substrate. The tension element 14a functions as a tension band (. Fig. 3, Fig. 4)

[0030] Furthermore, the support devices 10a, 10'a, 10''a, 10'''a each have two support leg elements 16a, 18a for supporting a photovoltaic module 12a, 12'a, 12''a, 12'''a in a raised position. In the following, only the support leg elements 16a, 18a of the first support device 10a are described, although the description is of course also applicable to the other support devices 10'a, 10''a, 10'''a. The support leg elements 16a, 18a, together with the horizontal tension element 14a, form a triangle. The angle between the tension element 14a and the support leg elements 16a, 18a is between 5° and 25°, preferably between 10° and 20°. For example, the angle between the tension element 14a and the support leg elements 16a, 18a is at least approximately 15°. The two support leg elements 16a, 18a are formed as a single piece.The two support leg elements 16a, 18a are formed as a single piece, with the single-piece connection representing the only direct connection between the two support leg elements 16a, 18a. However, it would also be conceivable for a mechanical connection, such as by screwing, or a material-to-material connection, such as by welding, to be provided in addition. The two support leg elements 16a, 18a consist largely of a hollow profile 20a, in particular of an aluminum hollow profile. The support leg elements 16a, 18a each consist at least largely of an aluminum extruded profile. Alternatively, it would also be conceivable for the support leg elements 16a, 18a to consist of a stainless steel extruded profile or a rolled profile, in particular an aluminum rolled profile or a stainless steel rolled profile. The two support leg elements 16a, 18a together consist of exactly one hollow profile 20a.The two support leg elements 16a, 18a are formed contiguously. It is conceivable that additional attachments of the support leg elements 16a, 18a are arranged on the hollow profile 20a. The hollow profile 20a has four boundary walls, which form the rectangular cross-section of the hollow profile 20a. The four boundary walls are each arranged on four mutually perpendicular sides of the hollow profile 20a. The four boundary walls consist of a bottom wall 54a, two side walls 56a, and a ceiling wall 58a. The hollow profile 20a is bent at a ridge point 22a of the support leg elements 16a, 18a. Furthermore, the hollow profile 20a has a triangular recess 24a in a vicinity of the ridge point 22a, wherein at least one outer fiber of the hollow profile 20a is formed continuously in the ridge point 22a of the support leg elements 16a, 18a.The ceiling wall 58a at the ridge point 22a of the support leg elements 16a, 18a is curved and continuous. The ceiling wall 58a forms the outer fiber of the hollow profile 20a at the ridge point 22a of the support leg elements 16a, 18a, which is continuous. It would also be conceivable for only a portion of the cross-section of the ceiling wall 58a to be continuous. The triangular recess 24a refers to an extended, unbent state of the hollow profile 20a (see ). Fig. 7). The triangular recess 24a consists of a congruent triangular recess in each of the two side walls 56a and a rectangular recess in the bottom wall 54a connecting the triangular recesses of the side walls 56a. After bending, the recess 24a is at least substantially closed. The hollow profile 20a is bent such that opposite edges of the triangular recess 24a abut one another. The hollow profile 20a is designed like a film hinge at the ridge point 22a to enable bending.

[0031] The two support leg elements 16a, 18a each have a fastening recess 26a, 28a in the vicinity of a ridge point 22a, which is intended to partially positively accommodate a frame 52a of one of the photovoltaic modules 12a, 12'a, 12''a, 12'''a. The fastening recesses 26a, 28a each have a transverse slot, at the end of which a short longitudinal slot is attached at right angles, wherein the frame 52a of the photovoltaic module 12a, 12'a, 12''a, 12'''a can be hooked into the longitudinal slot via the transverse slot and is held in place in a positively locking manner. The frame 52a can be inserted in a bayonet-like manner. The frame 52a preferably has, in particular, an L-shaped cross-section on an underside, which can be inserted into the fastening recess 26a, 28a.During assembly of the photovoltaic module 12a, 12'a, 12''a, 12'''a, the frame 52a is inserted, in particular in a first step, into the fastening recess 26a, 28a perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the respective support leg element 16a, 18a and then displaced parallel to the longitudinal axis of the respective support leg element 16a, 18a, so that the frame 52a engages in the longitudinal slot of the fastening recess 26a, 28a and is secured against lifting off. The fastening recesses 26a, 28a are provided for the positive reception of a frame 52a of one of the photovoltaic modules 12a, 12'a, 12''a, 12'''a (. Fig. 6, Fig. 7).

[0032] Furthermore, the two support leg elements 16a, 18a each have a fastening element 34a, 36a in an eaves area 30a, 32a for screwing to a photovoltaic module 12a, 12'a, 12''a, 12'''a. The fastening elements 34a, 36a are each formed by a fastening bracket firmly connected to the hollow profile 20a. However, other configurations of the fastening element 34a, 36a that would be deemed appropriate by a person skilled in the art are also conceivable.The fastening elements 34a, 36a are each formed, for example, by a Z-fastening bracket, wherein a first end section of the Z-fastening bracket is intended to be connected to the hollow profile 20a, a second end section of the Z-fastening bracket is intended to overlap the frame 52a of the photovoltaic module 12a, 12'a, 12''a, 12'''a and a central section of the Z-fastening bracket has at least one fastening recess through which the frame 52a of the photovoltaic module 12a, 12'a, 12''a, 12'''a can be screwed to the fastening element 34a, 36a. During installation, a photovoltaic module 12a, 12'a, 12''a, 12'''a is first suspended in one of the fastening recesses 26a, 28a and then screwed to one of the fastening elements 34a, 36a (. Fig. 5).

[0033] The horizontal tension element 14a is connected in one piece to the two support leg elements 16a, 18a. The tension element 14a is connected at each of its two outer ends to one end of the support leg elements 16a, 18a. The tension element 14a is connected to each of the two support leg elements 16a, 18a via a welded connection. Alternatively, it would also be conceivable for the tension element 14a to be connected to the at least two support leg elements 16a, 18a via a mechanical connection, such as a screw connection, a rivet connection, a plug connection, or the like. Alternatively, it would also be conceivable for the tension element 14a to also be connected in one piece to the two support leg elements 16a, 18a. The tension element 14a consists of a hollow profile with the same cross-sectional dimensions as the hollow profile 20a of the support leg elements 16a, 18a.The tension element 14a and the support leg elements 16a, 18a are arranged in the same vertical plane.

[0034] Furthermore, the support devices 10a, 10'a, 10''a, 10'''a each have at least one retaining tab 38a. Only the retaining tabs 38a of the first support device 10a are described below, although the description is of course also applicable to the other support devices 10'a, 10''a, 10'''a. The support device 10a has, for example, two retaining tabs 38a. The retaining tabs 38a are arranged on the tension element 14a and are intended to be connected, in particular screwed, to one of the load points 40a.

[0035] The retaining tabs 38a are each arranged at the ends of the tension element 14a and are intended to be screwed to one of the loading points 40a. The retaining tabs 38a are each arranged at opposite ends of the tension element 14a and are intended to be screwed to different loading points 40a. The loading points 40a serve to anchor the support device 10a. The retaining tabs 38a have at least one fastening shoe 60a, 62a for connecting to the tension element 14a and a fastening strap 64a for connecting to the loading point 40a. The retaining tabs 38a have, for example, two fastening shoes 60a, 62a, which are arranged on opposite sides of the fastening band 64a and which are provided for connection to the tension element 14a and the tension element of an adjacent support device 10a, 10'a, 10''a, 10'''a.The fastening shoes 60a, 62a are each designed to engage around a tension element 14a and be screwed to the tension element 14a. The fastening strap 64a is arranged between the fastening shoes 60a, 62a and is designed to be screwed directly onto a load point 40a. The retaining tabs 38a are each formed as a single piece. The retaining tabs 38a are made of a metal material.

[0036] Fig. 8 shows a schematic flow diagram of a method for producing the support device 10a. The method comprises a preparation step 44a. In the preparation step 44a, a hollow profile 20a is prepared for producing the at least two support leg elements 16a, 18a. This is followed by a recessing step 46a, in which the hollow profile 20a is provided with a triangular recess 24a open to one side at the ridge point 22a of the support leg elements 16a, 18a. In the recessing step 46a, the triangular recess 24a is created by laser cutting. Furthermore, in the recessing step 46a, the fastening recesses 26a, 28a of the support leg elements 16a, 18a are created in the hollow profile 20a. The fastening recesses 26a, 28a are also created, for example, by laser cutting. This is followed by a bending step 48a.In the bending step 48a, the hollow profile 20a is bent at the ridge point 22a of the upright leg elements 16a, 18a such that the recess 24a is substantially closed. The upright leg elements 16a, 18a are bent, in particular, by 30° relative to one another relative to a straight line. This is followed by a further preparation step 66a, in which a hollow profile is prepared for the tension element 14a. This is followed by a connecting step 50a, in which the horizontal tension element 14a is connected to the two upright leg elements 16a, 18a by means of a welded joint. Furthermore, an assembly step 68a follows, in which the retaining tab 38a and the fastening elements 34a, 36a are mounted. The retaining tab 38a and the fastening elements 34a, 36a are screwed to the tension element 14a and the support leg elements 16a, 18a.Subsequently, in a final assembly step 70a, the support device 10a can be fastened to the load point 40a with further support devices 10'a, 10''a, 10'''a, and then the photovoltaic modules 12a, 12'a, 12''a, 12'''a can be fastened to the support devices 10a, 10'a, 10''a, 10'''a. During assembly of the photovoltaic modules 12a, 12'a, 12''a, 12'''a, 12'''a, the frame 52a of the respective photovoltaic module 12a, 12'a, 12''a, 12'''a is inserted into the fastening recess 26a, 28a in a first step perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the respective support leg element 16a, 18a and then moved parallel to the longitudinal axis of the respective support leg element 16a, 18a so that the frame 52a engages in the longitudinal slot of the fastening recess 26a, 28a and is secured against lifting. The photovoltaic module 12a, 12'a, 12''a, 12'''a is then screwed in place using the fastening elements 34a, 36a.

[0037] In the Fig. 9 and Fig. 10 shows a further embodiment of the invention. The following descriptions are essentially limited to the differences between the embodiments, with reference to the description of the embodiment of the Fig. 1 to 8. To distinguish the embodiments, the letter a in the reference numerals of the embodiment in the Fig. 1 to 8 by the letter b in the reference numerals of the embodiment of the Fig. 9 and Fig. 10. With regard to components with the same designation, in particular with regard to components with the same reference numerals, reference can in principle also be made to the drawings and / or the description of the embodiment of the Fig. 1 to 8.

[0038] The Fig. 9 shows a photovoltaic system 42b with two support devices 10b, 10'b, with a photovoltaic module 12b mounted on the support devices 10b, 10'b and with four load points 40b.

[0039] The load points 40b are identically designed. The load points 40b are each formed, for example, by a trough. The load points 40b are each formed, for example, by a filled steel trough. The steel troughs are each filled, in particular, with a granulate 76b for planting. The load points 40b are each arranged in pairs of two load points 40b, with one load point 40b being arranged at each end of a support device 10b, 10'b, and with only one common load point 40b being arranged between each end of the support devices 10b, 10'b.

[0040] The photovoltaic module 12b is mounted on two support structures 10b, 10'b. Two support structures 10b, 10'b arranged parallel to each other form, in particular, a support structure for one photovoltaic module 12b each, which are mounted in the shape of a pent roof.

[0041] The support devices 10b, 10'b are identically constructed. For the sake of clarity, only the first support device 10b is provided with all reference numerals in the drawings. The corresponding features and components are of course also applicable to the other support device 10'b. The support devices 10b, 10'b are intended for supporting photovoltaic modules 12b. Two support devices 10b, 10'b are always required to support a photovoltaic module 12b. The support devices 10b, 10'b each have a horizontal tension element 14b. In the following, only the tension element 14b of the first support device 10b is described, although the description is of course also applicable to the other support device 10'b. The horizontal tension element 14b is formed by a tension tube. The tension element 14b consists at least largely of a hollow profile.The tension element 14b consists of a hollow aluminum profile. The tension element 14b consists of a hollow profile with a rectangular, hollow cross-section. The tension element 14b consists of an extruded aluminum profile. Alternatively, it would also be conceivable for the tension element 14b to consist of a stainless steel extruded profile or a rolled profile, in particular an aluminum rolled profile or a stainless steel rolled profile. The tension element 14b consists entirely of the hollow profile. The tension element 14b is intended to be arranged parallel to a substrate. The tension element 14b functions as a tension band (. Fig. 3, Fig. 4).

[0042] Furthermore, the support devices 10b, 10'b each have two support leg elements 16b, 18b for supporting a photovoltaic module 12b in a supported manner. In the following, only the support leg elements 16b, 18b of the first support device 10b are described, although the description is of course also applicable to the further support device 10'b. The support device 10b has a first support leg element 16b and a second support leg element 18b. The support leg elements 16b, 18b, together with the horizontal tension element 14b, form a triangle. An angle between the tension element 14b and the first support leg element 16b is between 5° and 25°, preferably between 10° and 20°. By way of example, an angle between the tension element 14b and the first support leg element 16b is at least approximately 15°.An angle between the tension element 14b and the second support leg element 18b is between 75° and 105°, preferably between 80° and 90°. For example, an angle between the tension element 14b and the second support leg element 18b is at least approximately 90°. The two support leg elements 16b, 18b are formed as a single piece. The two support leg elements 16b, 18b are formed as only one piece, with the single-piece connection representing the only direct connection between the two support leg elements 16b, 18b. However, it would also be conceivable to additionally provide a mechanical connection, such as by screwing, or a material-to-material connection, such as by welding. The two support leg elements 16b, 18b consist largely of a hollow profile 20b, in particular of an aluminum hollow profile.The support leg elements 16b, 18b each consist at least largely of an extruded aluminum profile. Alternatively, it would also be conceivable for the support leg elements 16b, 18b to consist of a stainless steel extruded profile or a rolled profile, in particular an aluminum rolled profile or a stainless steel rolled profile. The two support leg elements 16b, 18b together consist of exactly one hollow profile 20b. The two support leg elements 16b, 18b are formed contiguously. It is conceivable that further attachments of the support leg elements 16b, 18b are arranged on the hollow profile 20b. The hollow profile 20b has four boundary walls, which form the rectangular cross-section of the hollow profile 20b. The four boundary walls are each arranged on four mutually perpendicular sides of the hollow profile 20b.The four boundary walls consist of a bottom wall 54b, two side walls 56b, and a top wall 58b. The hollow profile 20b is bent at a ridge point 22b of the upright leg elements 16b, 18b. Furthermore, the hollow profile 20b has a triangular recess in the vicinity of the ridge point 22b, wherein at least one outer fiber of the hollow profile 20b is continuous in the ridge point 22b of the upright leg elements 16b, 18b. The top wall 58b in the ridge point 22b of the upright leg elements 16b, 18b is bent and continuous. The top wall 58b forms the outer fiber of the hollow profile 20b in the ridge point 22b of the upright leg elements 16b, 18b, which is continuous. The triangular recess 24b is related to a stretched, unbent state of the hollow profile 20b.The triangular recess 24b consists of a congruent triangular recess in each of the two side walls 56b and a rectangular recess in the bottom wall 54b connecting the triangular recesses of the side walls 56b. After bending, the recess 24b is at least substantially closed. The hollow profile 20b is bent such that opposite edges of the triangular recess 24b abut one another. The hollow profile 20b is designed like a film hinge at the ridge point 22b to enable bending.

[0043] The first support leg element 16b has a mounting recess 26b in the vicinity of a ridge point 22b, which is intended to partially accommodate a frame 52b of the photovoltaic module 12b in a form-fitting manner. The first mounting recess 26b has a transverse slot, at the end of which a short longitudinal slot is located at a right angle. The frame 52b of the photovoltaic module 12b can be hooked into the longitudinal slot via the transverse slot and is held in place in a form-fitting manner. The frame 52b can be inserted in a bayonet-like manner.

[0044] Furthermore, the first support leg element 16b has a fastening element 34b in an eaves region 30b for screwing to the photovoltaic module 12b. The fastening element 34b is formed by a fastening bracket firmly connected to the hollow profile 20b. The fastening element 34b is formed, for example, by a Z-fastening bracket, wherein a first end section of the Z-fastening bracket is intended to be connected to the hollow profile 20b, a second end section of the Z-fastening bracket is intended to overlap the frame 52b of the photovoltaic module 12b, and a central section of the Z-fastening bracket has at least one fastening recess through which the frame 52b of the photovoltaic module 12b can be screwed to the fastening element 34b.

[0045] The horizontal tension element 14b is positively connected to the two support leg elements 16b, 18b. The tension element 14b is connected at each of its two outer ends to one end of the support leg elements 16b, 18b. The tension element 14b has two parallel receiving slots 72b, 72'b at each end for connection to the support leg elements 16b, 18b. The support leg elements 16b, 18b each have two positive-locking extensions 74b at a lower free end, which are intended to be inserted and pushed into the receiving slots 72b, 72'b of the tension element 14b. The positive-locking extensions 74b and the receiving slots 72b, 72'b form a positive plug-in connection. The positive-locking extensions 74b have, for example, a mushroom shape in cross-section. The form-fitting extensions 74b are, for example, formed in one piece with the hollow profile 20b.The form-fitting extensions 74b are lasered out as an example. The receiving slots 72b, 72'b are also lasered out as an example. The tension element 14b consists of a hollow profile with the same cross-sectional dimensions as the hollow profile 20b of the support leg elements 16b, 18b. The tension element 14b and the support leg elements 16b, 18b are arranged in the same vertical plane (see . Fig. 10). Reference symbol 10 Stand device 12 photovoltaic modules 14 Tension element 16 Stand leg element 18 Stand leg element 20 hollow profile 22 Ridge point 24 recess 26 Mounting recess 28 Mounting recess 30 eaves area 32 eaves area 34 Fastening element 36 Fastening element 38 retaining tab 40 load point 42 photovoltaic system 44 Deployment step 46 Recess step 48 bending steps 50 connection steps 52 frames 54 floor wall 56 side wall 58 Ceiling wall 60 mounting shoe 62 mounting shoe 64 fastening tape 66 Deployment step 68 assembly steps 70 final assembly step 72 Recording slot 74 Form-fitting process 76 granules

Claims

[1] Support device (10a, 10'a, 10''a, 10'''a; 10b, 10'b), in particular for supporting photovoltaic modules (12a, 12'a, 12''a, 12'''a; 12b), with at least one, in particular horizontal, tension element (14a; 14b), in particular a tension tube, and with at least two support leg elements (16a, 18a; 16b, 18b) for supporting at least one photovoltaic module (12a, 12'a, 12''a, 12'''a; 12b), which together with the horizontal tension element (14a; 14b) enclose a triangle, characterized by that the at least two support leg elements (16a, 18a; 16b, 18b) are formed in one piece. [2] Support device (10a, 10'a, 10''a, 10'''a; 10b, 10'b) according to claim 1, characterized by that the at least two support leg elements (16a, 18a; 16b, 18b) consist at least to a large extent of a hollow profile (20a; 20b), in particular of an aluminum hollow profile. [3] Stand device (10a, 10'a, 10''a, 10'''a; 10b, 10'b) according to claim 2, characterized by in that the hollow profile (20a; 20b) is bent at a ridge point (22a; 22b) of the support leg elements (16a, 18a; 16b, 18b), wherein the hollow profile (20a; 20b) has a triangular recess (24a) in a vicinity of the ridge point (22a; 22b), wherein at least one outer fiber of the hollow profile (20a; 20b) is formed to be continuous in the ridge point (22a; 22b) of the support leg elements (16a, 18a; 16b, 18b). [4] Stand device (10a, 10'a, 10''a, 10'''a) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the horizontal tension element (14a) is integrally connected to the at least two support leg elements (16a, 18a). [5] Stand device (10a, 10'a, 10''a, 10'''a) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized byin that the at least two support leg elements (16a, 18a) each have at least one fastening recess (26a, 28a) in a vicinity of a ridge point (22a), which is provided for partially positively receiving a frame (52a) of a photovoltaic module (12a, 12'a, 12''a, 12'''a). [6] Stand device (10a, 10'a, 10''a, 10'''a) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the at least two support leg elements (16a, 18a) each have at least one fastening element (34a, 36a) in an eaves area (30a, 32a) for screwing to a photovoltaic module (12a, 12'a, 12''a, 12'''a). [7] Stand device (10a, 10'a, 10''a, 10'''a; 10b, 10'b) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by at least one retaining tab (38a; 38b) which is arranged on the tension element (14a; 14b) and which is intended to be connected, in particular screwed, to a load point (40a; 40b). [8] Stand device (10a, 10'a, 10''a, 10'''a; 10b, 10'b) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the tension element (14a; 14b) consists at least to a large extent of a hollow profile, in particular of an aluminum hollow profile. [9] Photovoltaic system (42a; 42b) with at least two support devices (10a, 10'a, 10''a, 10'''a; 10b, 10'b) according to one of the preceding claims and with at least one photovoltaic module (12a, 12'a, 12''a, 12'''a; 12b) fastened to the support devices (10a, 10'a, 10''a, 10'''a; 10b, 10'b). [10] Method for producing a support device (10a, 10'a, 10''a, 10'''a; 10b, 10'b) according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized bya provision step (44a) in which a hollow profile (20a; 20b) is provided for producing the at least two support leg elements (16a, 18a; 16b, 18b), a recess step (46a) in which the hollow profile (20a; 20b) is provided with a recess (24a; 24b) open to one side, in particular a triangular recess, at a ridge point (22a; 22b) of the support leg elements (16a, 18a; 16b, 18b), and a bending step (48a) in which the hollow profile (20a; 20b) is bent at the ridge point (22a; 22b) of the support leg elements (16a, 18a; 16b, 18b) in such a way that the recess (24a; 24b) is substantially closed. [11] Method according to claim 10, characterized by that in the recessing step (46a) the, in particular triangular, recess (24a) is introduced by means of laser cutting. [12] Method according to claim 10 or 11, characterized bythat in a connecting step (50a) the horizontal tension element (14a) is connected to the at least two support leg elements (16a, 18a) by means of a welded connection.

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