Cover for a bracket for installation of a solar panel to a roof

Abstract

There is disclosed a cover (100) for a bracket (900) for installing a solar panel on a slate roof, the cover (100) comprising: a planar base (102); and a hood portion (104) extending away from a top surface (106) of the planar base (102), wherein the hood portion (104) comprises: a first side wall (108) extending away from the top surface (106), and a second side wall (110) extending away from the top surface (106); a gap (112) between the first side wall (108) and the second side wall (110), the gap (112) configured to provide access to a given region positioned underneath the cover (100) from a direction perpendicular to, or close to perpendicular to, the planar base (102); and a lid (114) configured to be removably affixed to the first side wall (108) and the second side wall (110) to cover the gap (112) such that ingress of water through the gap (112) is inhibited.

Description

Cover for a Bracket for Installation of a Solar Panel to a Roof

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a cover for installing a solar panel on a slate roof, and a method for installing, onto a slate roof, a bracket for a solar panel.Background

[0002] Solar panels are often installed to slate roofs via brackets that are fixed to a portion of the roof frame. For example, the roof frame comprises rafters which are typically arranged to align with the angle of the roof and battens which are arranged perpendicular to the rafters. A bracket may be fixed to a rafter of the roof directly, or via a spacer (e.g., a shim such as a block of wood fixed to the rafter which provides a fixing surface), depending on the bracket. A rail may then be mounted on the brackets for the solar panels to be installed on the rails.

[0003] Slate roofs comprise panels (which may also be referred to as slate panels) which may comprise natural slate or composite slate. For example, the slate panels are laid in an overlapping manner atop the roof frame. For example, the overlap in the panels aides in inhibiting ingress of water into the roof past the panels. For examples, to drain water away safely, the slate panels may be double lapped such that at any point of the roof, there is at least a double layer of the slate panels.

[0004] Solar panels are a relatively recent development, and as such they may not only be fitted to newer buildings during construction, but they may also be retrofitted to older structures. However, it is important that the roof retains its integrity after the solar panels are fitted. For example, it would be disadvantageous if after installation, water, snow and the like could significantly more easily penetrate the slate panels. The same is true for the installation of any structure (not just solar panels) onto a roof. Therefore, it is common for a cover of thin material to be installed close to the joints between the roof and any roof features such as sky lights, chimneys or in the case of brackets of the kind used to install solar panels, to inhibit ingress, for example of rain or snow, at the location of the installation. This protects against corrosion, leaking, wood rot and other water damage.

[0005] Because the slate panels are arranged in an overlapping manner on a roof, in order to fit the bracket and the cover, several slate panels are completely removed to access the rafters underneath and to properly install the bracket and the cover. However, the process of removing several of the slate panel is time consuming and leaves the riskof damage and / or improper installation which may later cause ingress of water. Installing each bracket and cover may take a significant amount of time and involve a number of steps. This would be multiplied depending on the number of solar panels to be installed. Circumventing steps of the process (e.g., not removing the appropriate number of slate panels) may also lead to a risk of damage and / or improper installation which may later cause ingress of water. Hence, there is a need for methods and components which improve the efficiency of installation of a solar panel to a slate roof.Summary

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a cover for a bracket for installing a solar panel on a slate roof having slate panels in a double lapped pattern, the cover comprising: a planar base, where the entire planar base is configured to be positioned, in use, between directly overlaid slate panels of the slate roof in the double lapped pattern; and a hood portion extending away from a top surface of the planar base, wherein the hood portion comprises: a first side wall extending away from the top surface, and a second side wall extending away from the top surface; a gap between the first side wall and the second side wall, the gap configured to provide access to a given region positioned underneath the cover from a direction perpendicular to, or close to perpendicular to, the planar base; and a lid configured to be removably affixed to the first side wall and the second side wall to cover the gap such that ingress of water through the gap is inhibited.

[0007] Advantageously, the gap is configured to allow access from a direction roughly perpendicular to the planar base. The planar base would be positioned roughly parallel to the slate panels and to a surface of the rafter where the bracket is to be attached. The gap therefore provides access to the region of the rafter where the bracket is intended to be fixed, without the need for the cover to be removed. For example, access provided in this direction allows the use of drills, screw drivers, and the like, which are best used when directed perpendicular to the surface on which they act. Therefore, elements can advantageously be fixed to the given region using fixings such as bolts, screws, etc., once the cover is already in place. This ability may enhance the efficiency of installing a bracket and cover. This ability may also provide for fixings in the given region to be adjusted or redone without having to remove the cover, for example. The lid covers up the gap to inhibit the ingress of water so that the cover can perform its normal function while providing for significantly more efficient installation.

[0008] Optionally, the hood portion of the cover is configured to cover, in use, an exposed region of the roof frame of the slate roof.

[0009] Advantageously, the hood portion covers up a part of the bracket which is attached to the otherwise exposed region of the rafter to which the bracket is attached. The hood portion therefore helps to maintain protection against rain, snow, etc. Because the hood portion covering a part of the bracket extends away from the planar base, it allows room for separation between the slate panels underneath the bracket and the bracket portion covered by the hood portion.

[0010] Optionally, the hood portion of the cover comprises an integral end wall which extends between a first end portion of the first side wall and a first end portion of the second side wall.

[0011] Advantageously, the end wall contributes to the stability and strength of the hood portion of the cover. Furthermore, the end wall is integral to the first and second side walls and the planar base. This provides for better ingress protection as there are fewer joins through which water has a chance of penetrating.

[0012] Optionally, the end wall is configured to abut a support element positioned within the hood portion to support the cover against gravity by providing a flat inner surface.

[0013] Advantageously, the end wall ensures that the cover retains its position on the roof and covers the bracket. The bracket itself can be used to hold the cover in position. Therefore, other fixing means (such as nails, use of which may require slate panels to be removed) are not needed.

[0014] Optionally, the hood portion comprises a bridge portion arranged to connect the first side wall to the second side wall, towards a second end portion of the first wall and a second end of the second side wall.

[0015] Advantageously, the bridge portion contributes to the stability and strength of the hood portion of the cover. For example, the first and second side wall are inhibited from caving in towards one another.

[0016] Optionally, each of the first and second side walls of the hood portion comprise one or more wall engagement structures; the lid comprises one or more lid engagement structures; and the wall engagement structures are configured to engage with the lid engagement structures to removably affix the lid to the first and second side walls.

[0017] Advantageously, the wall and lid engagement structures provide for removable attachment of the lid onto the hood portion in order to cover the gap. When access is not required, the lid is affixed to cover up the region of the rafter which has been exposed in order for the bracket to be installed. However, when access is required (such as when installing the bracket positioned partly underneath the cover), the lid can be removed to gain access through the gap. The engagement structures allow the lid to be securely fixed to the hood portion. For example, the engagement structures provide fixation secure enough so that the lid does not detach due to adverse weather conditions or allow ingress of water, for instance.

[0018] Optionally, the lid and the first and second side walls are configured such that when the wall engagement structures are engaged with the lid engagement structures, water is prevented, or at least inhibited, from entering into the gap.

[0019] Advantageously, the lid may be securely fixed in such a manner that inhibits water ingress and therefore prevents water damage to the roof such as wood rot, corrosion and the like. For example, rather than merely covering the gap so that water rolls off away from the gap, the engagement structure provides a level of sealing so that water is at least inhibited from entering the space between the affixed lid and the first and second side walls. For example, in extreme wind and rain condition, water can be urged not just downwards due to gravity, but in various directions. Such engagement structure providing a level of sealing that functions to protect against water ingress in extreme weather conditions.

[0020] Advantageously, the planar base is proportioned so that it may be positioned under the roof slate panels. Therefore, the thickness of the planar base is such that it fits between two overlaid slate panels. Advantageously, the planar base can therefore be slid between slate panels without having to entirely remove them, saving time. Furthermore, the cover may be positioned without disruption to the traditional overlapping structure of the roof slate panels. The slate panels which lie on top of the planar base help to hold the cover in position. The planar base extends the cover beyond the exposed region of the roof to enhance the weather protection the cover is intended to provide.

[0021] The cover is configured to inhibit the ingress of water at a location of the roof where the bracket is installed.

[0022] Advantageously, the cover is configured to be installed at the location of the bracket and to cooperate with the bracket in a manner so that it avoids ingress of waterto the roof at the points where the bracket is positioned in order to prevent water damage such as wood rot, corrosion, leaks to the inside of the building and the like occurring.

[0023] The cover is configured to allow installation of the bracket without removal of any roof slate panels.

[0024] Advantageously, the cover not only allows access to the exposed rafter region after being put in its in-use position, but can also be configured such that not even a single slate panel need be removed for the installation of the bracket. The improvement to efficiency is therefore greater than enhancements which merely reduce the number of slate panels which need to be removed for installation.

[0025] Optionally, the cover is configured to allow installation of the bracket after the cover has been placed in an in-use cover install position.

[0026] Advantageously, the in-use cover install position is the final position of the cover such that it may perform its intended function. The cover is configured such that it can be positioned in its final in-use position before the bracket is installed. Therefore, the bracket does not need to be installed first. The relevant slate panels can be cut in-situ without being entirely removed to expose the desired region of the rafter. The cover can be positioned by being slid underneath the slate panels in the desired position. Advantageously, it is not needed for any of the slate panels to be removed to do this. The bracket can be installed subsequently by accessing the rafter through the gap. For example, access from a perpendicular direction allows use of a drill to make holes in the rafter, and for use of screws, bolts, etc., to fix the bracket to the rafter.

[0027] Optionally, when the cover is in an in-use cover install position, the hood portion defines a channel with a channel opening such that the bracket can be inserted into the channel opening and positioned at an in-use bracket install position within the channel.

[0028] Advantageously, the channel opening allows the bracket to be positioned within the hood portion and positioned against the fixing surface for installation. Accordingly, the proper positioning of the bracket is provided for, even though the cover is already in place. Accordingly, prior art brackets, the relevant part of which may not have fit through the channel opening, do not need to be adapted. Instead, there is a channel opening defined through which existing brackets can be inserted.

[0029] Optionally, the planar base of the cover is configured to be cut to a desired size in accordance with a size of roof slate panels deployed on the roof by comprising a material which can be cut using a utility knife.

[0030] Advantageously, this allows a single large size of planar base to be provided, which can be adapted for different size slate panels by cutting. This simplifies manufacture and mitigates the need to produce separate covers with differing planar base sizes.

[0031] Optionally, the planar base comprises a plurality of markings to indicate cutting locations corresponding to desired sizes in accordance with a respective plurality of standard roof slate panel sizes.

[0032] Advantageously, this allows the user fitting the cover to quickly cut the cover to the appropriate size without having to precisely measure and mark up the cover previously, which results in a quicker installation.

[0033] Optionally, a separation between the first side wall and the second side wall towards the top surface may be greater than a separation between the first side wall and the second side wall father away from the top surface.

[0034] Advantageously, this ensures that the covers may be stacked during packaging, taking up less space and so may be more easily transported.

[0035] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method of installing, onto a slate roof having slate panels in a double lapped pattern, a bracket for a solar panel, the method comprising: cutting two or more slate panels of the roof in situ, while installed on the roof, to expose a given region of the roof under the two or more slate panels; positioning a cover at an in-use cover install position without removing any of the slate panels, wherein the cover comprises: a planar base, where the entire planar base is configured to be positioned, in use, between directly overlaid slate panels of the slate roof in the double lapped pattern; and a hood portion extending away from a top surface of the planar base, the hood portion overlapping with the given region when the cover is in the in-use cover install position, wherein the hood portion comprises: a first side wall extending away from the top surface, and a second side wall extending away from the top surface; a gap between the first side wall and the second side wall, the gap configured to provide access to a given region positioned underneath the cover; and a lid configured to be removably affixed to the first side wall and the second side wall to cover the gap such that ingress of water into the gap is inhibited.

[0036] Advantageously, this method requires cutting out a given region of the slate panels in-situ rather than completely removing the slate panels resulting in a more efficient installation method.

[0037] Optionally, the method according to the second aspect comprises, positioning the bracket, after positioning the cover at the in-use install position, within the hood portion such that a roof fixable portion of the bracket is positioned in abutment against a fixing surface in the given region.

[0038] Advantageously, positioning the cover first means that the planar base of the cover can slide under the relevant slate panels without being obstructed by an installed bracket. Therefore, no slate panels are removed in order to correctly position the cover. Then, the bracket is position in the hood portion and can then be installed without any of the slate panels having been removed.

[0039] Optionally, the method according to the second aspect comprises, fixing the roof fixing portion to the fixing surface by accessing the given region through the gap.

[0040] Advantageously, this allows the cover to be installed in the desired position first, and access to the given region for bracket installation is not obstructed despite the cover being in place.

[0041] Optionally, the method according to the second aspect comprises, affixing the lid onto the first and second side walls after fixing the roof fixing portion to the fixing surface.

[0042] Advantageously, affixing the lid results in the gap being covered up so that the given region is weather protected.

[0043] Optionally, the method according to the second aspect, wherein the two or more slate panels may be cut using an angle grinder.

[0044] Advantageously, this allows the user installing the bracket and cover to create access to the portion of the roof frame the bracket is to be secured to without removing several slate panels.

[0045] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there may be provided a bracket for installing a solar panel onto a roof, the bracket comprising: an elongate portion; a roof fixable portion at a first end of the elongate portion; and a mount portion at a second end of the elongate portion, wherein the roof fixable portion comprises: an extension portion extending away from the elongate portion, wherein a first extension end of the extension portion meets the first end of the elongate portion; and an abutment portion at a second extension end of the extension portion, the abutment portion configured to abut a fixing surface of the roof, wherein: both the elongate portion and the abutment portion extend away from the extension portion in substantially the same direction as one another.

[0046] Optionally, in the bracket according to the third aspect, the extension portion defines a first end of the bracket and the remainder of the bracket extends towards a second end of the bracket where the mount portion is located. Optionally, in the bracket according to the third aspect, a separation between the elongate portion and the abutment portion is such that when the abutment portion abuts a rafter of the roof by directly contacting the rafter, there is a threshold separation, or greater, between the elongate portion and a tile of the roof overlapped by the elongate portion. Optionally, the threshold separation is 30 millimetres. Optionally, a length of the extension portion between the first end of the extension portion and the second end of the extension portion is between 55 millimetres and 90 millimetres. Optionally, the bracket is configured for use with a cover, wherein the cover comprises a hood portion which forms a channel with a channel opening, when the cover is in an in-use cover install position. Optionally, the roof fixable portion is dimensioned so as to be able to: fit into the channel opening and be inserted into the channel. Optionally, the extension portion is configured to act as a support element configured to abut a part of the hood portion by directly contacting said part to support the cover against gravity. Optionally, the abutment portion comprises one or more fixing structures to receive fixings for fixing the abutment portion to a rafter of the roof. Optionally, the elongate portion comprises one or more access structures to provide access to the one or more fixing structures from a direction in which the elongate portion overlaps the abutment portion.

[0047] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method for use in installing, onto a slate roof, a bracket for a solar panel, the method comprising: fixing the bracket to a rafter of the slate roof, the bracket comprising: an elongate portion; a roof fixable portion at a first end of the elongate portion; and a mount portion at a second end of the elongate portion, wherein the roof fixable portion comprises: an extension portion extending away from the elongate portion, wherein a first end of the extension portion meets the first end of the elongate portion; and an abutment portion at a second end of the extension portion, the abutment portion configured to abut a fixing surface of the roof, wherein: both the elongate portion and the abutment portion extend away from the extension portion in substantially the same direction as one another, wherein fixing the bracket to the rafter comprises: inserting the roof fixable portion into a channel through a channel opening defined by a hood portion of a cover installed on the slate roof.

[0048] Optionally, the method according to the fourth aspect comprises: manipulating the bracket to take up an in-use bracket install position within the channel. Optionally,manipulating the bracket comprises arranging the extension portion to abut a part of the hood portion by directly contacting said part such that the extension portion acts as a support element to support the cover against gravity. Optionally, in the method according to the fourth aspect, in the in-use bracket install position, the abutment portion abuts against a fixing surface of the rafter in a given region of the slate roof, the given region being positioned underneath the cover. Optionally, the method according to the fourth aspect comprises accessing the given region through a gap in the hood portion to fix the abutment portion to the fixing surface. Optionally, in order to fix the abutment portion to the fixing surface, one or more fixing structures provided on the abutment portion are accessed through one or more access structures in the elongate portion. Optionally, in the method according to the fourth aspect, the fixing surface is a surface of the rafter itself such that the abutment portion directly contacts the rafter when fixed thereon.Brief Description of the Drawings

[0049] Examples of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:Figure 1 is a schematic perspective exploded view of a cover, according to examples;Figure 2 is a schematic plan view of a base portion of the cover, according to examples;Figure 3 is a schematic front view of the base portion of the cover, according to examples;Figure 4 is a schematic side view of the base portion of the cover, according to example;Figure 5 is a first schematic perspective view of a lid of the cover, according to examples;Figure 6 is a second schematic perspective view of the lid of the cover, according to examples;Figure 7 is a schematic front view of the lid of the cover, according to examples;Figure 8 is a schematic side view of the lid of the cover, according to examples;Figure 9 is a schematic front view of a bracket, according to examples;Figure 10 is a schematic side view of the bracket, according to examples;Figure 11 is a schematic plan view of the cover in an in-use cover install position with respect to a number of roof slate panels, according to examples;Figure 12 is a schematic front view of the base portion in the in-use cover install position with respect to the number of roof slate panels, according to examples;Figure 13 is a schematic side view of the base portion in the in-use cover install position with respect to the number of roof slate panels, according to examples;Figure 14 is a schematic perspective view of an alternative base portion, according to examples;Figure 15 is a flow diagram of a method in relation to a bracket for a solar panel, according to examples;Figure 16 is a schematic perspective view of the cover, according to examples;Figure 17 is a schematic plan view of the cover, according to examples;Figure 18 is a schematic front view of the cover, according to examples;Figure 19 is a schematic side view of the cover, according to examples;Figure 20 is a schematic plan view of a set of slate panels installed on a roof, according to examples;Figure 21 is a schematic front view of a new bracket, according to examples;Figure 22 is a schematic side view of the new bracket, according to examples;Figure 23 is a schematic rear view of the new bracket, according to examples;Figure 24 is a schematic side view of a further new bracket, according to examples; andFigure 25 is a schematic front view of the further new bracket, according to examples.Detailed Description

[0050] The present disclosure relates to a cover for a bracket for installing a solar panel on a roof. The cover comprises a planar base and a hood portion that extends away from a top surface of the planar base. The hood portion comprises a first side wall that extends away from the top surface, and a second side wall that also extends away from the top surface. The hood portion also comprises a gap between the first side wall and the second side wall wherein the gap is configured to provide access to a given regionpositioned underneath the cover from a direction perpendicular to, or close to perpendicular to, the planar base. The hood portion further comprises a lid configured to be removably affixed to the first side wall and the second side wall to cover the gap such that ingress of water through the gap is inhibited.

[0051] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective exploded view of a cover 100 according to examples. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the cover 100 may also be referred to as a flash, a solar flash, or flashing. It should be noted that to flash a joint means to make said joint watertight with flashing. The cover 100 is for providing flashing to an exposed region of the roof frame (in the context of installing brackets for solar panels) to inhibit, for example, ingress of rainwater. Therefore, the cover 100 may interchangeably be referred to as the flash 100.

[0052] In these examples, there is provided a planar base 102 and a hood portion 104. The hood portion 104 extends away from a top surface 106 of the planar base 102. The top surface 106 is the surface of the planar base 102 which is intended to face away from the roof frame. The planar base 102 is planar in that it has a flat profile. For example, the planar base 102 is planar in that it has a thickness much smaller than its length and width. In these examples, the hood portion 104 comprises a lid 114 which is configured to be removably affixed to a first and a second side wall 108, 110 to cover a gap 112 such that ingress of water through the gap 112 is inhibited. Having the lid 114 affixed means that access to the given region is obstructed. The given region is the region underneath the cover / flash 100. More specifically, the given region is the region underneath the gap 112 of the hood portion 104. In use, the given region outlined by the gap 112 is intended to overlap with an exposed region of the roof frame.

[0053] In the exploded view of Figure 1 , the lid 114 is shown detached from the first and second side walls 108, 110. Figure 16 is a schematic perspective view of the cover / flash 100, according to examples. Figure 17 is a schematic plan view of the cover / flash 100, according to examples. Figure 18 is a schematic front view of the cover / flash 100, according to examples. Figure 19 is a schematic side view of the cover / flash 100, according to examples. In the examples of Figures 16 to 19, the lid 114 is shown affixed to the first and second side walls 108, 110.

[0054] In these examples, the part of the cover 100 (flash 100) including the planar base 102 (in other words, the part of the cover 100 not including the lid 114) may be referred to as a base portion 103. The base portion 103 is the part of the cover 100 which comprises the planar base 102 and the part of the hood portion 104 not including the lid 114.

[0055] The cover 100, apart from the lid 114 which is detachable, may be a unitary structure. In other words, in some examples, the base portion 103 is a unitary structure. For example, the base portion 103 may be constructed as a single piece such that there are no joins / connections between the planar base 102 and the first and second side walls 108, 110. It should be noted that the lines shown in the Figures between the planar base102 and the side walls 108, 110 for example indicate changes in surface curvature rather than joins between individual elements. In this way, the planar base 102 is continuous with the side walls 108, 110. For example, the base portion 103 may be moulded, cast, 3D printed, or otherwise manufactured as a single unitary piece. For example, the lid 114 is manufactured as a separate piece using a similar manufacturing process. However, in other examples, the hood portion 104 may not be a unitary structure with the planar base 102. For example, the hood portion 104 may be fixed to the planar base 102. For example, the hood portion 104 may be fixed securely (e.g., by having overlapping surfaces, fixing structures which provide tight connection, and / or the like) such that ingress of water is inhibited between the joins between the hood portion 104 and the planar base 102.

[0056] Figure 2 is a schematic plan view of the base portion 103, according to examples. The length L and the width W of the base portion 103 are indicated in Figure 2 using double sided arrows. The planar base 102 defines the extent of the base portion 103, with the hood portion 104 provided at / within the bounds defined by the length and width of the planar base 102. Therefore, the length L and the width W indicated in Figure 2 may also be thought of as the length L and the width W of the planar base 102. In this description, the length L and width W may be referenced with respect to the base portion103 as a whole or the planar base 102. Nevertheless, in examples, the length L and the width W being referred to is that indicated in Figure 2.

[0057] Figure 3 is a schematic front view of the base portion 103, according to examples.Figure 4 is a schematic side view of the base portion 103, according to examples.

[0058] For example, at least a part of the planar base 102 is configured to be positioned, in use, under one or more slate panels, as further described later. In these examples, the entire planar base 102 is configured to have a thickness much smaller than the overall length L and width W of the planar base 102. For example, the thickness of the planar base 102 is much smaller than each of the length L and width W indicated in Figure 2. Due to its flat profile, the planar base 102 can advantageously fit a narrow space between two surfaces such as between two overlaid slate panels. For example, the planar base 102 can be slid between two slate panels that are overlaid on top of one another. Therefore, the planar base 102 can be positioned between overlaid slate panels without having to remove the topmost of those slate panels. Accordingly, significant time may be saved in positioning the planar base 102. Furthermore, the planar base 102 may be positioned without disruption to the traditional overlapping structure of the roof slate panels. The slate panels which lie on top of the planar base 102 help to hold the cover / flash 100 in position. In other examples, it may not be the entire planar base 102 configured to fit between overlaid slate panels, but only a part of the planar base 102 may be so configured.

[0059] In some examples, the thickness of the planar base 102 is between 1 millimetre and 3.5 millimetres, preferably between 1 millimetre and 2 millimetres, more preferably 1.5 millimetres.

[0060] In the examples shown in the Figures, the hood portion 104 is provided towards an end of the base portion 103 with respect to the length L. For example, a bottom end 202 of the base portion 103 is intended to be oriented to be the bottom most part of the cover 100 when in the in-use cover install position. For example, the bottom end 202 spans the width W. The bottom end 202 is to one extreme of the length L.

[0061] In some examples, the planar base 102 is configured to be cut to a desired size in accordance with a size of slate panels deployed on the roof. For example, the base portion 103 may comprise a material which can be cut using a utility knife. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that there should be at least a threshold amount of overlap between a top slate panel and a bottom slate panel underneath (on which bottom slate panel the top slate panel is overlaid). At least the threshold amount of overlap is needed to prevent ingress of water. The slate panels are supplied in a range of sizes. The slate panels are fixed to battens (elongate pieces of wood) which are fixed to the rafters of theroof frame in perpendicular relation. The battens are to be appropriately spaced for the size of the slate panels. Figure 20 is a schematic plan view of an example set of slate panels installed on a slate roof. In these examples, some of the slate panels in a double lapped pattern are shown. For example, the cover 100 is suitable for use on a double lapped pattern slate roof. In these examples, there is shown a first slate panel 1102, a second slate panel 1104, a third slate panel 1106, a fourth slate panel 2002, and a fifth slate panel 2004. There is also shown a first batten 2006, a second batten 2008, a third batten 2010 and a fourth batten 2012. For simplicity, the rafters are not shown, however, a cutaway region 2016 described below overlaps a rafter.

[0062] In these examples, the first slate panel 1102 is nailed to the second batten 2008 at locations 1102a and 1102b. The second slate panel 1104 is nailed to the second batten 2008 at locations 1104a and 1104b. The third slate panel 1106 is nailed to the third batten 2010 at locations 1106a and 1106b. The fourth slate panel 2002 is nailed to the fourth batten 2012 at locations 2002a and 2002b. The fifth slate panel 2004 is nailed to the fourth batten 2012 at locations 2004a and 2004b. The portion of the third slate panel 1106 which is underneath the first and second slate panels 1102, 1104 is shown using a dash-dot line. It will be appreciated that only a few of the panels are shown. For example, in practice, there would be panels mounted on the third batten 2010 adjacent and either side of the third slate panel 1106, but these are not shown for simplicity. It should also be noted that parts of the fourth and fifth panels 2002, 2004 which are underneath other components, apart from the locations 2002b and 2004a, are not illustrated.

[0063] As previously described, in use, the given region underneath the hood portion 104 is intended to overlap with an exposed region of the roof frame. The examples of Figure 20 show an exposed region 2014 ofthe roof frame. Example methods for creating the exposed region 2014 are discussed further below. In these examples, the first, second and third slate panels 1102, 1104, 1106 have been cut away from the cutaway region 2016. Part ofthe cutaway region 2016 is still occupied by the fourth and fifth slate panels after the first, second and third slate panels 1102, 1104, 1106 have been cut away. The extent of the exposed region 2014 and the cutaway region 2016 (e.g., the length and width as viewed from the perspective of Figure 20) are indicated using curly brackets in Figure 20.

[0064] In these particular examples, the hood portion 104 is intended to fit in the cutaway region 2016 such that the descried given region (to which the gap 112 provides access) overlaps with the exposed region 2014.

[0065] For example, the desired length L of the planar base 102 may be determined by the distance between the bottom edges of the slate panels and the respective locations where those slate panels are nailed to the respective battens. Referring to the examples of Figure 20, the desired length L of the planar base 102 may be determined by the distance between the bottom edges of the first and second slate panels 1102, 1104 and the locations 1102a, 1102b, 1104a, 1104b where the first and second slate panels 1102, 1104 are nailed to the second batten 2008.

[0066] Figure 11 is a schematic plan view of the base portion 103 of the cover / flash 100 installed in an example in-use cover install position, according to examples. As referred to in this description, the “in-use cover install position” is a position of the cover / flash 100 where it might be intended to be installed in order to perform its normal function of e.g., providing weather protection at the exposed region of the roof frame overwhich the cover 100 is to be installed. Figure 11 is similar to Figure 20 in that there is shown the same cutaway region 2016, but Figure 11 includes the base portion 103 with the hood portion 104 positioned in the cutaway region 2016. In these examples, the planar base 102 is positioned underneath the first and second slate panels 1102, 1104 and is indicated in equally spaced dashed lines. In these examples, a part of the third slate panel 1106 is positioned underneath the cover / flash 100. For example, the planar base 102 rests on top of a part of the third slate panel 1106. Figure 12 is a schematic front view of the base portion 103 of the cover 100 installed in the example in-use cover install position, according to examples. Figure 13 is a schematic side view of the base portion 103 of the cover 100 installed in the example in-use cover install position, according to examples. For simplicity, only the first, second and third slate panels 1102, 1104, 1106 are shown in Figures 12, and only the first and third slate panels 1102, 1106 are shown in Figure 13. It can be seen from Figures 12 and 13 that the entire planar base 102 is positioned, in use, between directly overlaid slate panels of the slate roof in the double lapped pattern. For example, in this case the first and second slate panels 1102, 1104 are directly overlaid onto the slate panels of the layer comprising the third slate panel 1106. Advantageously, none of the slate panels need be omitted because the planarbase 102 is configured to fit between directly overlaid slate panels, instead the slate panels are merely cut as appropriate for the bracket installation.In these examples, the length L of the base portion 103 is determined to fit within the bottom ends of the first and second slate panels 1102, 1104 and the locations 1102a, 1102b, 1104a, 1104b where those panels are nailed to their batten. The bottom ends of the panels are the ends closest to the ground, and towards which the hood portion 10 is positioned. For examples, the base portion 103 may be manufactured with such a length L which fits between the bottom ends and the nailing locations of the panels. However, in some examples, as described above, the planar base 102 is configured to be cut to a desired size in accordance with a size of slate panels deployed on the roof.

[0067] Advantageously, this allows a single large size of planar base 102 to be provided, which can be adapted for different size slate panels by cutting. This simplifies manufacture and mitigates the need to produce separate covers with differing planar base sizes.

[0068] In some examples, the planar base 102 comprises a plurality of markings 107 to indicate cutting locations corresponding to desired sizes in accordance with a respective plurality of standard roof slate panel sizes. For example, depending on the various sizes of the slate panels in relation to which the cover 100 is expected to be installed, the markings 107 indicate the appropriate positions at which to cut (e.g., to appropriately reduce the length L).

[0069] Advantageously, this allows the user fitting the cover 100 to quickly cut the cover 100 to the appropriate size without having to precisely measure and mark up the cover 100 previously, which results in a quicker installation.

[0070] In some examples, the length L of the base portion 103 is between 300 millimetres and 400 millimetres, preferably 365 millimetres. In some examples, the width W of the base portion 103 is between 300 millimetres and 400 millimetres, preferably 365 millimetres. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that slate tile sizes and associated dimensions / spacing of the roof frame may be specified in units of inches (for example, as is the case in the UK and the USA). In some examples therefore, the markings may indicate respective values in inches as illustrated in Figures 1 and 16. In Figures 2 and 17, the markings 107 are simple lines without numeral imprints.

[0071] In some examples in which the width W of the bae portion 103 is 365 millimetres and the length L of the base portion 103 is 365 millimetres, the markings 107 comprise a first marking positioned substantially (within acceptable tolerances) 288 millimetres from the bottom end 202, a second marking positioned substantially (within acceptable tolerances) 314 millimetres away from the bottom end 202, and a third marking positioned substantially (within acceptable tolerances) 338 millimetres from the bottom end 202. In these examples, by cutting the cover 100 to reduce the length L according to these markings, the cover 100 may be adapted to differently sized slate panels. For example, an uncut cover 100 with length L of 365 millimetres may be used with 24 inch slate panels; a cover cut at the third marking 338 millimetres from the bottom end 202 may be used with 22 inch slate panels; a cover cut at the second marking 314 millimetres from the bottom end 202 may be used with 20 inch slate panels; and a cover cut at the first marking 288 millimetres from the bottom end 202 may be used with 18 inch slate panels.

[0072] However, in some examples, the cover 100 may have a length L which is preconfigured for a particular slate panel size, rather than having to be cut. For example, the cover 100 may have a width W of 365 millimetres and a length L which is substantially (within acceptable tolerances) one of: 288 millimetres; 314 millimetres; 338 millimetres; and 365 millimetres. In some examples, the length L may be slightly different to these specific values, depending on the feature of the roof and the slate panel onto which the cover 100 is to be deployed.

[0073] For example, referring again to Figures 1 to 4, the hood portion 104 comprises the first side wall 108 and the second side wall 110. The first and second side walls 108, 110 extend away from the top surface 106. For example, the first and second side walls 108, 110 are erect atop the top surface 106. As previously described, the gap 112 is configured to provide access to a given region positioned underneath the cover 100 from a direction perpendicular to, or close to perpendicular to, the planar base 102. For example, the gap 112 defines an opening enclosing an area which is parallel, or close to parallel to the planar base 102. In some examples, the gap 112 has a width (parallel to the width W of the base portion 103) between 30 millimetres and 50 millimetres, preferably between 35 millimetres and 45 millimetres, more preferably 40 millimetres. In some examples, the gap 112 has a length (parallel to the length L of the base portion103) between 110 millimetres and 130 millimetres, preferably between 115 millimetres and 125 millimetres, more preferably 122 millimetres.

[0074] For example, access is gained by approaching both the gap 112 and the planar surface 102 from a direction substantially perpendicular to the planar surface 102. In this manner tools such as power drills, screw drivers, etc. (which require an approach from a direction substantially perpendicular to the surface on which they act) may easily be used to operate on a surface in the given region which is substantially parallel to the planar base 102. For example, fixings such as screws and bolts may be installed on the surface in the given region, which is to be covered by the hood portion 104 of the cover 100.

[0075] In some examples, the hood portion 104 comprises an integral end wall 116 which extends between a first end portion 118 of the first side wall 108 and a first end portion 120 of the second side wall 110 (see Figure 1). In the examples shown in the figures, the end wall 116 rises to the same height above the top surface 106 as the first and second side walls 108, 110. In other examples, the end wall 116 may not rise to the same height as the first and second side walls 108, 110.

[0076] In these examples, the first end portion 118 of the first side wall 108 is farthest away from the bottom end 202 and there is a second end portion 123 of the first side wall 108 further towards the bottom end 202. The first end portion 120 of the second side wall 110 is farthest away from the bottom end 202 and there is a second end portion 124 of the second side wall 110 further towards the bottom end 202.

[0077] As can be seen from the examples of Figure 1 , the hood portion 104 extends all the way to the bottom end 202. For example, the second end portion 123 of the first side wall 108 and the second end portion 124 of the second side wall 110 reach all the way to edge of the base portion 103 at the bottom end 202. In some examples, the dimension of the hood portion 104 along the length L direction of the base portion 103 is chosen such that the gap 112 can be positioned to provide access to an appropriate part of the roof frame. For example, it is desired to provide access to a particular part of the roof frame relative to the slate panels such that the cover 100 can be installed in a desired position and provide access to an appropriate part of the roof frame where the bracket can be securely installed. For example, it is desired that the bottom end 202 line up with the slate panels under which the planar base 102 will be positioned in use.

[0078] In this case, it is desirable that the hood portion 104 be positioned relative to the planar base 102 and sized such that the described appropriate access is provided by the gap 112. For example, it is desired that the exposed region 2014 shown in Figure 20 expose a rafter portion above the third batten 2010 onto which the bracket can be fixed. More generally, it is desired that the exposed region exposes the rafter portion above the batten onto which the slate panel intended to be underneath the cover 100 is installed. It is also therefore desired that the gap 112 overlap this region. For example, it is desired that the dimension of the hood portion 104 along the length L direction be large enough such that the top of the hood portion 104 reaches a portion of the underlying rafter e.g., above the third batten 2010 for the case of Figure 11. The inventor has found that the dimension of the hood portion 104 along the length L of substantially 200 millimetres may provide appropriate access via the gap 112. In other words, in some examples, the hood portion 104 reaches 200 millimetres from the bottom end 202.

[0079] For example, the exposed region 2014 may be desired to be positioned between 110 millimetres from the bottom end 202 and 190 millimetres from the bottom end 202. For example, the exposed region starting at 110 millimetres from the bottom end 202 when the cover is installed, or from the bottom of e.g., the first and second slate panels 1102, 1104 provides that the bottom of the exposed region 2014 is expected to be about 10 millimetres above the nail locations 1106a and 1106b (note that Figure 20 shows parts of slate panels 2002 and 2004 for the purpose of illustrations, however, the bottom of the exposed region 2014 may be defined by the third slate panel 1106). In some examples, this may leave enough of the third slate panel 1106 so as to maintain good integrity of the slate panels.

[0080] In these examples, the bottom end 202 is substantially aligned with the ends of the slate panels which overlay the planar base 102, in use. For example, with a hood portion 104 dimension along the length L of 200 millimetres, there is provided a 10 millimetre buffer from e.g., the external side of the end wall 116. The length of the gap 112 may also be chosen to extend beyond the range between 110 and 190 millimetres from the bottom end 202, for example.

[0081] For example, the above-described features of the hood portion 104 in relation to the planar base 102 (e.g., sized according to the marking 107 based on the slate panelsize) provide the headlap that is otherwise lost in the creation of the exposed region 2014 by cutting away slate panels. It will be appreciated that headlap refers to the amount by which a slate panel overlaps the course below it. Double lapping is a roofing technique where slate panels are laid so that each course (layer) overlaps not only the course directly underneath, but also the next course below. In other words, a slate panel overlaps the course one after the very next course directly underneath. For example, as referred to herein, headlap refers to the overlap between a slate panel and the slate panel underneath in the course one after the very next course below said slate panel. In some examples, a minimum headlap of 75 millimetres may be desirable, or required by regulations.

[0082] As described, the bottom end 202 is intended to be downwardly positioned. For example, when the cover 100 rests on an angled slate roof as intended, the bottom end 202 is the bottom most part. For example, the end wall 116 inhibits water from running into the hood portion 104 from the top.

[0083] In some examples, the area between the first end portion 118 of the first side wall 108 and the first end portion 120 of the second side wall 110 may be covered up by the lid 114, instead of the end wall 116 being provided. In examples where the height of the end wall 116 is shorter than the side walls, the remaining space between the first end portion 118 of the first side wall 108 and the first end portion 120 of the second side wall 110 is covered up by the lid 114. For example, the lid 114 affixes in a manner that inhibits ingress of water where the lid 114 contact the side walls, the end wall 116, and optionally the planar base 102.

[0084] In some examples, each of the first and second side walls 108, 110 comprise one or more wall engagement structures, the lid 114 comprises one or more lid engagement structures, and the wall engagement structures are configured to engage with the lid engagement structures to removably affix the lid 114 to the first and second side walls 108, 110. In the examples shown in the Figures, the first and second side walls 108, 110 comprise wall engagement structures 126. On each side wall 108, 110, the wall engagement structures 126 are provided on an outside facing surface of said side wall 108, 110. For example, the outside facing surface faces away from the region within the hood portion 104. In these examples, the wall engagement structures 126 are protrusions from the outside facing surfaces. However, as described below, the wallengagement structure 126 may instead be indents in other examples. Although three wall engagement structures 126 are shown on each side wall 108, 110, any appropriate number of wall engagement structures 126 may be provided. For example, there may be only one wall engagement structure 126 which is continuous between the first side wall 108, the end wall 116 and the second side wall 110. In these examples, there is also provided a wall engagement structure 126 on the end wall 116.

[0085] Figure 5 is a first schematic perspective view of the lid 114, according to examples. Figure 6 is a second schematic perspective view of the lid 114, according to examples. Figure 7 is a schematic front view of the lid 114, according to examples. Figure 8 is a schematic side view of the lid 114, according to examples. In these specific examples, structures present behind the structures visible from the perspective of the Figures are shown in dashed lines.

[0086] In these examples, the lid 114 comprises a covering portion 502 which covers the gap 112 when the lid 114 is connected to the rest of the hood portion 104. For example, the covering portion 502 is generally parallel, or close to parallel, to the planar base 102 when the lid 114 is connected to the base portion 103. The lid 114 comprises first, second and third overlap portions 504, 506, 508. The first overlap portion 504 overlaps the first side wall 108, the second overlap portion 506 overlaps the second side wall 110 and the third overlap portion 508 overlaps the end wall 116, when the lid 114 is affixed to the base portion 103 as intended.

[0087] As described above, in these specific examples, the wall engagement structures 126 are protrusions. Lid engagement structures 510 are complimentary shaped indents configured to receive the protrusions in order to lock the lid 114 in place. Those skilled in the art will appreciate the various kinds of shapes / profiles which can be used for these kinds of engagement structures. For example, the wall engagement structures 126 may define a ledge which catches onto the indents of the lid engagement structures 510 to secure the lid 114 onto the base portion 103, for example. For example, the lid 114 comprises a material which allows the lid 114 to flex. In order to remove the lid 114, the lid 114 may be flexed in order for the wall engagement structures 126 to disengage from the lid engagement structures 510.

[0088] In other examples, the lid engagement structures 510 may be protrusions and the wall engagement structures 126 may be indents. In yet other examples, the lid 114 may be detachably affixed to the base portion 103 by means other than engagement structures. For examples, adhesives may be used. In some examples, the lid 114 may be shaped and dimensioned to create a very tight fit on the side walls 108, 110 such that it is removably affixed. Those skilled in the art will appreciate the various ways in which one component may be connected to another in the context of roofs or other structures where it is an aim to avoid water ingress.

[0089] Accordingly, whichever means of connection is used, the lid 114 and the first and second side walls 108, 110 are configured such that when the lid 114 is affixed to the side walls 108, 110 (and end wall 116, where present), water is prevented, or at least inhibited, from entering into the gap 112. As referred to here “at least inhibited” in the context means that ingress of water is prevented for at least the weather conditions the cover is expected to be subjected to in the geographical area where it is being installed. More specifically, in the case of the examples shown in the drawings with example engagement structures, the lid 114 and the first and second side walls 108, 110 (and the end wall 116, where present) are configured such that when the wall engagement structures 126 are engaged with the lid engagement structures 510, water is prevented, or at least inhibited, from entering into the gap 112. For example, the connection must form enough of a seal such that water is inhibited from penetrating between a surface of the lid 114 overlapped with a surface of the remainder of the hood portion 104 far enough to reach the gap 112.

[0090] In these examples, the lid 114 comprises the lid engagement structures 510, as shown. The lid engagement structures 510 are provided on the inward facing surfaces of the respective overlap portions 504, 506, 508 of the lid 114. The lid engagement structures 510 are configured to engage with the wall engagement structures 126. Therefore, the lid engagement structures 510 are in a complementary pattern to the wall engagement structures 126. For example, there are three lid engagement structures 510 on the inside surface of the first overlap portion 504, three lid engagement structures 510 on the inside surface of the second overlap portion 506 and one engagement structure on the inside surface of the end wall 116. However, in other examples, a different number and arrangement of lid engagement structures 510 may be provided,according to whatever is the number and arrangement of the wall engagement structures 126 (which may be different to that shown in the Figures).

[0091] In some examples, the hood portion 104 comprises a bridge portion 204 (see Figures 1 and 2) arranged to connect the first side wall 108 to the second side wall 110, towards the second end portion 123 of the first side wall 108 and the second end portion 124 of the second side wall 110. Advantageously, the bridge portion 204 contributes to the stability and strength of the hood portion 104 of the cover 100. For example, the first and second side walls 108, 110 are inhibited from caving in towards one another. Therefore, the bridge portion 204 enhances the structural stability of the side walls 108, 110. For example, the lid 114 may form a tight fit such that the first and second overlap portions 504, 506 of the lid 114 press the first and second side walls 108, 110 towards one another. In these examples, the bridge portion 204 assists in the side walls 108, 110 holding to their intending configuration.

[0092] The given region of the roof to which access is provided via the gap 112 is intended to be a region overlapping the exposed region (e.g., the exposed region 2014 of Figure 20) of the roof frame, said exposed region being in order for the bracket to be fixed to the roof frame (e.g., a rafter). For example, as shown in Figure 20, two or more of the slate panels may be cut in order to expose a region of the roof frame, and to reveal a portion of a rafter of the roof frame. The bracket is intended to be fixed to the revealed portion of the rafter. The purpose of the cover 100 is to cover up the exposed region of the roof frame in order to protect it from the elements. For example, it would be undesirable for water to ingress into the exposed region of the roof.

[0093] For example, the hood portion 104 is configured to cover, in use, the exposed region of the roof frame. For example, the hood portion 104 overlaps the exposed region of the roof frame, where a part of the bracket is positioned. For example, the planar base 102 rests on one or more of the slate panels, and the hood portion 104 extending away from the top surface 106 of the planar base 102 provides room under the hood portion 104 for the bracket to be in position there. A part of the bracket is left exposed (in other words, is not within the hood portion 104) for a rail to be installed thereon, where the rail is for solar panels to be installed, for example.

[0094] For example, the cover 100 is configured to inhibit the ingress of water at a location of the roof where the exposed region is created and the bracket is installed. Asdiscussed above, the hood portion overlaps the exposed region of the roof frame where the bracket is installed. Furthermore, the cover 100 covers up a greater region than what is present under the hood portion 104 because of the planar base 102. For example, the hood portion 104 may be provided towards the centre with respect to the width W, as shown in Figure 2. In this manner, the planar base 102 may provide equal protection either side of the hood portion 104 along the width W. In this way, the exposed region of the roof frame, and a region in the close vicinity of said exposed region is also covered up.

[0095] Providing such cover inhibits the ingress of water because water is less likely to get to the exposed region due to the presence of the appropriately installed cover 100, for example, which provides the desired flashing. It will be appreciated that water may flow in a generally downward direction on a slate roof which slopes downwards. Accordingly, weather protection is provided above and to the sides of the exposed region of the roof frame when the cover 100 is installed. In effect, the cover 100 guides water around the exposed region of the roof frame.

[0096] As previously described, the provision of the cover 100 disclosed herein with the gap 112 and the lid 114 provides access to a region underneath the cover 100. Therefore, when the cover 100 is already in it in-use cover install position, a region underneath the cover 100 can be accessed, for example, to manipulate fixings and the like. In some examples, the advantageous nature of the cover 100 is further enhanced because it is configured to allow installation of the bracket and the cover 100 without removal of any roof slate panels.

[0097] For example, the cover 100 may be configured such that not even a single slate panel need be removed in order to properly install the bracket and the cover 100 on top. For example, certain slate panels may be cut while still installed on the roof in order to create the described exposed region of the roof frame (for example, where one of the rafters is located). The cut is sized so as to allow installation of the bracket using fixings such as screws and bolts. Figure 9 is a schematic front view of a first bracket 900, according to examples. Figure 10 is a schematic side view of the first bracket 900, according to examples. The first bracket 900 of these examples is a bracket which may typically be used to install solar panels onto roofs. However, those skilled in the art willappreciate that the first bracket 900 is one example of the kind of bracket which may be used. In other examples, the bracket may be differently shaped.

[0098] The first bracket 900 comprises a first roof fixable portion 902 at a first end of a first elongate portion 904. In these examples, the first roof fixable portion 902 comprises a first extension portion 903 extending from the first elongate portion 904, and a first abutment portion 905. The first abutment portion 905 connects to the first elongate portion 904 via the first extension portion 903. The first abutment portion 905 is for abutting against a fixing surface. For example, the first abutment portion 905 may have one or more fixing receiving structures for receiving fixings in order to fix the first abutment portion 905 to the fixing surface.

[0099] There is also a first mount portion 906 at a second end of the first elongate portion 904. For example, the first mount portion 906 may also comprise one or more fixing receiving structures to allow for example a rail for receiving one or more solar panels to be fixed thereon using appropriate fixings. In these examples, the first abutment portion 905 of the first roof fixable portion 902 is offset from the first elongate portion 904 such that the first elongate portion 904 is farther away, as compared to the first abutment portion 905, from the fixing surface. For example, the first roof fixable portion 902 is intended to be fixed to a rafter of the roof frame, and at least a part of the first elongate portion 904 is intended to overlap a slate panel. It will be appreciated that the slate panels will be offset from the rafter. Accordingly, the offset between the first roof fixable portion 902 and the first elongate portion 904 assists in fixing the bracket 900 to the roof frame.

[0100] The first bracket 900 is merely an example of the shapes of brackets which are typically used. In some examples, there may not be an extension portion and the elongate portion and the abutment portion of the bracket may a single straight piece. Also, for example, where the extension portion is present, its length and its angle relative to the elongate portion may vary. In the following description, reference is made generally to the bracket, the abutment portion etc. , and the intention is not to refer to the particular example of Figures 9 and 10 only. Such general references may apply to the first bracket 900, but they may also apply to other example brackets.

[0101] For example, it is desired that there is a threshold clearance between the bracket and the slate panels. Therefore, a spacer such as a block of wood may be positioned between the abutment portion and the rafter, and the abutment portion may be fixed to the rafter via the spacer (for example, by securing a bolt(s) or screw(s) through the abutment portion, the spacer and then into the rafter). In the various examples of the typical brackets, the spacer is sized according to the shape of the bracket (e.g., the presence and arrangement of an extension portion) so that the threshold clearance is maintained. In other words, the spacer provides the fixing surface described above, onto which the abutment portion (e.g., the first abutment portion 905) is mounted. In this case, due to the need for a spacer, there is a fixing surface for the bracket which is offset from the rafter.

[0102] For example, it is not desired for the elongate portion of a bracket to have its resting position too close to the slate panels. For example, it may be desired that there is enough room for the elongate portion to flex towards the slate panel which it overlays without contacting said slate panels, when wind and the like acts on the mounted solar panel, for example. Accordingly, a spacer may be used. However, in examples where the threshold clearance can be achieved without a spacer (due to the configuration of the bracket being used), the fixing surface is directly on the rafter itself.

[0103] As previously described, in some examples, the cover 100 is configured to allow installation of the bracket and the cover 100 without removal of any of the slate panels. In some examples, this may be achieved by virtue of the cover 100 being configured to allow installation of the bracket after the cover 100 has been placed in an in-use cover install position. For example, in prior art examples of a method to install a prior art cover and e.g., the bracket 900, certain slate panels are removed, and certain panels are cut in orderto create the described exposed region of the roof frame (for example, see Figure 20). For example, the panels removed are the ones which would overlap at least a part of the prior art cover when the prior art cover is in its installed position. Then, in these prior art examples, the bracket is installed (for example, the described spacer is positioned on an exposed region of a rafter to provide the fixing surface, and the abutment portion is fixed to the rafter via the spacer). Subsequently to the bracket being fixed using the spacer, the prior art cover is positioned to cover up the exposed region and a part of the bracket (e.g., at least the abutment portion) and secured. For example,the prior art cover may be secured using nails. The slate panels which were removed may then be replaced.

[0104] However, as further described herein, certain features of the present cover 100 not present in prior art examples provide that the cover 100 and the bracket may surprisingly be installed without the need to remove any of the slate panels.

[0105] Referring to Figures 11 to 13, in these examples, the cover 100 is put into the in- use cover install position without the removal of any of the slate panels (e.g., the first and second slate panels 1102, 1104) - while only the base portion 103 is shown in Figures 11 to 13, it will be appreciated that the lid 114 is simply to be affixed to the remainder of the hood portion 104 at the appropriate stage. The planar base 102 is slid underneath the first and second slate panels 1102, 1104 in order to take up the in-use cover install position.

[0106] In the examples of Figure 11 , the region 1108 which would be underneath the hood portion when viewed as shown in Figure 11 (from a direction roughly perpendicular to the planar base 102) can be seen. In these examples, the region 1108 overlaps with the exposed region 2014 of the roof frame and is the region 1108 to which access is provided by the gap 112. In these examples, when the cover 100 is in the in-use cover install position, the hood portion 104 defines a channel with a channel opening such that the bracket can be inserted into the channel opening and positioned at an in-use bracket install position. As referred to herein, the “in-use bracket install position” is the position of the bracket where the abutment portion abuts the fixing surface at the exposed region of the frame as intended. Referring to the examples of Figures 11 to 13, the exposed region 2014 is underneath the hood portion 104. Therefore, the abutment portion is to be positioned under the hood portion 104 so that the abutment portion can abut against the fixing surface provided by the described spacer.

[0107] For example, the channel opening 1204 is bound by the inner surfaces of the hood portion 104 closest to the bottom end 202 and the top surface of the third slate panel 1106. For example, the hood portion 104 forms the channel which terminates at a given depth into the channel as viewed from the perspective of Figure 12. The view of Figure 12 looks onto the bottom end 202 of the base portion 103 (see Figure 2). InFigure 12, the channel is labelled with numeral 1202. For example, the channel 1202 terminates at the end wall 116 of the hood portion 104.

[0108] In these examples, the channel opening 1204 has a channel opening height 1206 and a channel opening width 1208. In these examples, the channel opening height 1206 and the channel opening width 1208 is configured to be large enough such that the bracket can be placed in its in-use bracket install position within the channel 1202. For example, the hood portion 104 is configured such that the channel opening 1204 is large enough to receive the roof fixable portion. For example, the channel opening width 1208 is large enough to account for the width of the bracket. For example, the channel opening height 1206 is large enough to account for the corresponding dimension of the bracket. For example, in the case of the first bracket 900, the depth defined by the combination of the elongate portion 904, the abutment portion 905 and the offset between those two elements created by the extension portion 903 may be accommodated within the channel opening height 1206. Even when the channel opening height 1206 and the channel opening width 1208 cannot accept the example brackets, the gap 112 and lid 114 allow for a bracket with a small enough roof fixable portion to be fixed after installation of the covers. Configuring the channel 1202 appropriately, however, allows for various brackets such as the bracket 900 with an extension portion 903 to be installed after installation of the cover 100 (and modified bracket with larger spacers may not be needed).

[0109] It should be noted that there may be a restriction to how big the channel opening height 1206 can be made. For example, it is undesired that the channel opening height 1206 be so large that the hood portion 104 interferes with other components. For example, it would be undesired for the hood portion 104 to interfere, for example, with a rail mounted onto the first mount portion 906. As can be seen from Figures 9 and 10, the first mount portion 906 extends from the second end of the first elongate portion 904 towards the first end of the first elongate portion 904. Therefore, there is a possibility of the hood portion 104 (which would cover a part of the first elongate portion 904, in use) may interfere with a rail mounted to the first mount portion 906, depending on the height of the hood portion 104.

[0110] However, a balance may be found for the channel opening height 1206 which allows the bracket to be positioned subsequently to the cover being positioned, andappropriate clearance for rails, solar panels, mount portions and the like. It is envisaged that most or even all of the typically used brackets may be accommodated within the channel opening height 1206 without the hood portion 104 being tall enough to cause any undesired interference or obstruction.

[0111] In these particular examples, the combination of the provision of the gap 112 and lid 114, and the appropriate size of the channel opening 1204 to receive the roof fixable portion of the bracket (e.g., the first roof fixable portion 902) provides that the bracket can be installed after the base portion 103 is already in the in-use cover install position. This means that the cover 100 can be installed first by sliding the planar base 102 underneath the relevant slate panel. Because the planar base 102 is slid under the relevant slate panel rather than its approach including a significant approach component perpendicular to the slate panel, no slate panels have to be removed in order to arrive at the in-use cover install position while maintaining the ability to subsequently install the bracket. The roof fixable portion can be inserted into the channel opening 1204. Once in the in-use bracket install position, the abutment portion can be accessed through the gap 112 to fix the abutment portion to the fixing surface provided by the spacer.

[0112] Advantageously, being able to carry out the installation without the need to remove any slate panels saves a large amount of time and effort in the installation. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that for the installation of each bracket and cover 100, several slate panel would be removed and replaced. When installing solar panels onto a roof, a plurality (for example, several) solar panels may be intended to be installed. The time an effort required in removing and replacing the slate panels for each bracket and cover installation must be multiplies by the total number of brackets needed for the rails which receive the solar panels, for example. Accordingly, the features of the cover 100 provide a large increase in the efficiency of the process involved in installing solar panels.

[0113] It is envisaged that the features of the present disclosure may reduce the cost associated with solar panel installation. As a consequence, more property owners may choose to have solar panels installed on the roof of their property. Accordingly, the features of the present disclosure may contribute to a shift towards the renewable energy source of solar power. Accordingly, the features of the present disclosure are ultimately envisaged to contribute to an environmental benefit.

[0114] Referring again to Figures 2 to 4, in some examples, the end wall 116 is configured to abut a support element positioned within the hood portion 104 to support the cover 100 against gravity. For example, a support element may be installed on the fixing surface provided by the spacer or the exposed part of the rafter in order to support the cover 100. For example, the support element may be an element which extends from the fixing surface / rafter into the volume within the hood portion 104. In some examples, the support element may be an element which is mounted onto the bracket 900. For example, the end wall 116 may be configured to abut the support element as described by providing a flat inner surface which is perpendicular, or close to perpendicular, to the planar base 102. Providing such perpendicular relation may provide for a simple support element which can extend perpendicularly from the rafter or the fixing surface provided by the spacer. However, in other examples, the end wall 116 may not provide an inner surface perpendicular to the planar base 102, and the support element may be arranged accordingly to abut said inner surface to support the cover 100 against gravity. Referring to Figure 4, abutment of the flat inner surface area of the end wall 116 inhibits motion of the cover 100 in the direction indicated by arrow 402. The direction 402 relative to the cover 100 is the direction in which the cover 100 may move when in the in-use cover install position due to gravity if not appropriately supported.

[0115] For example, the support element may comprise wood, metal, plastic, foam or any other material which can appropriately installed and appropriately support the weight of the cover 100 against gravity. In some examples, a foam support element may be installed on the bracket, e.g., the first bracket 900. In some examples, the support element may comprise a configuration of one or more springs biased to support the cover 100 against gravity.

[0116] In some examples, a separation 302 between the first side wall 108 and the second side wall 110 towards the top surface 106 is greater than a separation 304 between the first side wall 108 and the second side wall 110 farther away from the top surface 106. Accordingly, the side walls 108, 110 are slightly angled towards each other so that they get slightly closer, the further they are from the top surface 106 of the planar base 102. In terms of packaging and storing the cover 100 (or, for example, for packaging and storing base portions 103 by themselves) efficiency is gained because the base portions 103 can be stacked on top of one another. For example, due to theangle of the side walls 108, 110, the hood portion 104 of one base portion 103 can be positioned within the hood portion 104 of another base portion 103. As a consequence, the covers 100 can also more easily be transported. These features allow less packaging to be used and provide that more units can fit in a smaller space, thus allowing more units to be transported at one time. Accordingly, these features provide environmental and cost benefits in the reduction of packaging and in the reduction of transport.

[0117] In the examples shown in the Figures, rectangular side walls 108, 110 are shown. However, the side walls 108, 110 may also have a different profile / shape. Various profiles for the side walls 108, 110, end wall 116 and bridge portion 204 are possible, which provide the described features and advantages. Figure 14 is a schematic perspective view of an alternative base portion 1400, according to examples. In Figure 14, some of the same reference numerals are used as in Figures 1 to 13 for similar features. The alternative base portion 1400 is but one example of alternative profiles / shapes which may be provided with the above-described features and advantages. In these examples, the hood portion 1402 of the base portion 1400 comprises a first side wall 1404 and a second side wall 1406. As can be seen from Figure 14, the side walls 1404, 1406 do not have a rectangular profile, instead they have a generally “L” shaped profile. In these examples, the bridge portion 1408 is a different height above the top surface 106 than the height at which the gap 1410 is provided. In these examples, the bridge portion 1408 also has a generally “L” shaped profile. For example, the lid would be appropriately shaped and configured according to the profile of the hood portion 1402. In other examples, the side walls may have a different profile so long as a gap between the first side wall and the second side wall configured to provide access to a given region positioned underneath the cover from a direction perpendicular to, or close to perpendicular to, the planar base is provided. Such examples may comprise any combination of the described features.

[0118] In some examples, in accordance with this disclosure, there may also be provided a new bracket, different to the brackets which are typically used, such as the first bracket 900 described above. The new bracket may be particularly advantageous when used together with the described cover 100, as described in the following.

[0119] Figure 21 is a schematic front view of the first new bracket 2100, according to examples. Figure 22 is a schematic side view of the new bracket 2100, according to examples. Figurer 23 is a schematic rear view of the new bracket, according to examples. For the purpose of clarity, the new bracket 2100 will hereafter be referred to as the second bracket 2100, and its components will be referenced with the prefix “second”. The differences between the second bracket 2100 and the first bracket 900, and the advantages which the second bracket 2100 provides over the first bracket 900 (and other typically used brackets) will be described in the following. As already described, the disclosed cover / flash 100 provides significant advantages when used with brackets which are typically used. However, the second bracket 2100 provides further advantages in its own right and when used together with the cover / flash 100.

[0120] When specifically referring to the first bracket 900, the prefix “first” is used herein. When referring to the second bracket 2100, the prefix “second” is used herein. However, when a reference is to the bracket and / or its parts without the use of “first” or “second”, that may be either the first bracket, or the second bracket, or another example bracket not specifically shown in the Figures.

[0121] The second bracket 2100 is for installing a solar panel onto a roof. The second bracket 2100 comprises a second elongate portion 2102, a second roof fixable portion 2104 at a first end of the second elongate portion 2102, and a second mount portion 2106 at a second end of the second elongate portion 2102. In these examples, the first end of the second elongate portion 2102 is indicated by numeral 2108, and the second end of the second elongate portion 2102 is indicated by numeral 2110.

[0122] In these examples, the second roof fixable portion 2104 comprises a second extension portion 2112 extending away from the second elongate portion 2102. The second roof fixable portion 2104 also comprises a second abutment portion 2114. In these examples, a first extension end 2112a of the second extension portion 2112 meets the first end 2108 of the second elongate portion 2102. The second roof fixable portion 2104 also comprises a second abutment portion 2114 at a second extension end 2112b of the second extension portion 2112, the second abutment portion 2114 configured to abut a fixing surface of the roof. In these examples, both the second elongate portion 2102 and the second abutment portion 2114 extend away from the second extension portion 2112 in substantially the same direction as one another. For example, thesecond elongate portion 2102 extends away from the second extension portion 2112 towards its second end 2110. And, the second abutment portion 2114 also extends away from the second extension portion 2112 in the general direction of the second end 2110 of the second elongate portion 2102. For example, this arrangement of the second abutment portion 2114 is different to that of the example first bracket 900.

[0123] In these examples, reference may be made to a first bracket end 2116 of the second bracket 2100, and a second bracket end 2118 of the second bracket 2100. The second mount portion 2106 is located towards the second bracket end 2118. In these examples, the second extension portion 2112 defines the first bracket end 2116.

[0124] In these examples, there is provided a top surface 2200 at the first bracket end 2116. The top surface 2200 is the surface of the second extension portion 2112 which faces away from the second elongate portion 2102. Advantageously, the top surface 2200 functions as the described support element for supporting the cover / flash 100 against gravity. For example, the top surface 2200 may function particularly well as the support element in examples where the end wall 116 provides a flat inner surface which is perpendicular, or close to perpendicular, to the planar base 102 (as described above). However, the top surface 2200 may also function to provide support against gravity when the inner surface of the end wall 116 is not perpendicular to the planar base 102.

[0125] For example, the shape of the second roof fixable portion 2104 provides the top surface 2200 for abutment and support against gravity while still providing the second abutment portion 2114 appropriately for fixing to the fixing surface (e.g., provided by the spacer), or directly onto the rafter. For example, either due to the length of the extension portion 2112 alone, or in addition to the extra dimension provided by the spacer, the threshold clearance between the second bracket 2100 and the slate panels underneath can be maintained. In some examples, the threshold clearance may be at least 10 millimetres. In some examples, the threshold clearance may be at least 30 millimetres.

[0126] For example, the length of the second extension portion 2112 between the first extension end 2112a and the second extension end 2112b may be between 55 millimetres and 90 millimetres.

[0127] It will be understood that the second bracket 2100 is configured for use with the cover / flash 100 which comprises the described hood portion 104 forming a channel 1202 with a channel opening 1204, when the cover / flash 100 is in the in-use cover install position. For example, the second roof fixable portion 2104 is dimensioned so as to be able to: fit into the channel opening 1204, and be inserted into the channel 1202.

[0128] As previously described, while the height of the hood portion 104 (as dictated at least in part by the channel opening height 1206) is configured to receive the roof fixable portion of a bracket which may be used in this context, there may be a limit to the height of the hood portion 104 that can be provided. For example, the height of the hood portion 104 should be small enough so that the hood portion 104 does not interfere with a rail mounted onto the second mount portion 2106, for example. Therefore, the second roof fixable portion 2104 is dimension so that it fits into the channel 1202 without requiring the channel height to be within an acceptable range to avoid interference.

[0129] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the mount portion of a bracket may vary in configuration, for example, depending on the solar panel rail to be mounted. In the examples shown in the Figures, the first and second mount portions 906, 2106 extend back towards the respective roof fixable portions. However, in other examples, the mount portions may be roughly perpendicular to the elongate portion, for example. Accordingly, there may be examples where interference of the hood portion 104 with a rail mounted on the (or interference during the rail mounting process) is less likely. However, other factors may also be considered when selecting the size of the hood portion 104 and the size of the channel opening 1204.

[0130] It may, for example, be desired that the channel opening 1204 is covered or sealed after the installation. For example, it may be desired that water, dust, or animals do not enter the channel opening 1204. For example, the restriction to the height of the hood portion 104 may mitigate, to some degree, animals (such as birds) entering the channel opening 1204, for example. However, it may be desired to otherwise provide a kind of cover or seal. In some examples, even if a kind of seal is used, it may still be desired that the channel opening 1204 remain under a certain size. In some examples, a foam or plastic insert may be inserted into the channel opening 1204 in order to close the channel opening 1204. In some examples, the insert may fit around the installedbracket. For example, the insert may surround the elongate portion of the bracket being used. In this manner advantages flashing of the exposed region 2014 may be provided.

[0131] In some examples, the channel height 1206 is between 55 millimetres and 75 millimetres, preferably between 60 millimetres and 70 millimetres, more preferably 65 millimetres. In some examples, the channel opening width 1208 closest to the planar base 102 is between 40 millimetres and 60 millimetres, preferably between 45 millimetres and 55 millimetres. As previously described, in some examples, the side walls 108, 110 are slightly angled towards each other so that they get slightly closer, the further they are from the top surface 106 of the planar base 102. In some such examples, in combination with the channel opening width dimension referenced herein, the channel opening width 1208 farthest away from the top surface 106 may also be between 40 millimetres and 60 millimetres, preferably between 45 millimetres and 55 millimetres. In some examples, the difference between the largest channel opening width (closest to the top surface 106) and the smallest channel opening width (farthest from the top surface 106) is between 3.5 millimetres and 5 millimetres, preferably between 4 millimetres and 4.5 millimetres. In some examples, the depth of the channel 1202 (parallel to the length L of the base portion 103) is between 150 millimetres and 170 millimetres, preferably between 155 millimetres and 165 millimetres.

[0132] For example, the second abutment portion 2114 comprises one or more abutment fixing structures 2202 to receive fixings for fixing the second abutment portion 2114 to a rafter or an otherwise provided fixing surface connected to the rafter of the roof. In these examples, there are two abutment fixing structures 2202, however, any suitable number of abutment fixing structures 2202 may be provided. In these examples, the abutment fixing structures 2202 are circular through holes, however, of any suitable shape (circular, slotted, etc.) may be provided. The abutment fixing structures are indicated in dashed lines in the side view of Figure 22 for illustration.

[0133] In some examples, the elongate portion 2102 comprises one or more access structures 2204 to provide access to the one or more fixing structures 2202 from a direction in which the second elongate portion 2102 overlaps the second abutment portion 2114. For example, the access structures provide access from a direction parallel, or close to parallel, to the length of the extension portion 2112 between the first extension end 2112a and the second extension end 2112b. For example, the accessstructures provide access from a direction perpendicular, or close to perpendicular, to the fixing surface on which the fixings received in the fixing structures 2202 are to be deployed. For example, the access structures 2204 may be holes. In the examples of Figures 21 to 23, there are provided two holes as access structures 2204 corresponding to two fixing structure 2202 holes. In other examples, there may be a large slotted hole as the access structure 2204. In some examples, the access structure may be formed by the part of the second elongate portion 2102 towards the first end 2108 of the second elongate portion 2102 being shaped so as to allow access to the fixing structures 2202. For example, the shape may be such that material is omitted from the parts towards the first end 2108 of the second elongate portion which are directly in front of the fixing structures 2202 (when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the fixing surface).

[0134] There may be provided a method for use in installing, onto a slate roof, a bracket for a solar panel. Figure 15 is a flow diagram illustrating examples of such methods. At block 1502 of the method 1500, two or more slate panels of the roof are cut in situ, while installed on the roof, to create an exposed region of a roof frame under the two or more slate panels. At block 1504 of the method 1500 a cover is positioned at an in-use cover install position without removing any of the slate panels. The cover used in the method may the cover according to any of the examples described above. As previously described, slate panels must be removed in prior art methods.

[0135] In these examples, the slate panels are cut in order to create the exposed region of the roof frame in-situ. For example, referring to the examples shown in Figures 11 to 13 and 20, while the first, second and third slate panels 1102, 1104, 1106 remain installed, they are cut in order to create the exposed region of the roof frame. For example, an appropriate tool such as an appropriate power tool may be used. In some examples, the two or more slate panels are cut using an angle grinder. For example, an angle grinder may be used to cut the first, second and third slate panels 1102, 1104, 1106. According to the particular example shown in Figure 20, only the first, second and third slate panels 1102, 1104, 1106 are cut, whereas the fourth and fifth slate panels 2002, 2004 are not cut. In order to avoid cutting a slate panel positioned underneath the given panel being cut, a barrier such as a metal plate may be positioned immediately underneath the given panel being cut, for example.

[0136] It should be noted that the examples of Figure 11 to 13 and 20 show a particular slate panel cut out configuration. However, other configurations of cut outs are also possible depending on where in relation to the slate panels the bracket and cover 100 are to be installed. In examples, the bottom end 202 is aligned with the bottom of one or more of the slate panels. For example, in the case of Figures 11 to 13, the cover / flash 100 is installed in between the first and second slate panels 1102, 1104. For example, the cover 100 is centred so that the hood portion 104 is centred between the first and second slate panels 1102, 1104. In some other examples, the hood portion 104 may be centred between the centre of a slate panel (e.g., the centre of the first slate panel 1102 or the second slate panel 1104 and the like), and an edge of said slate panel. In some other examples, the hood portion 104 may be centred at the centre of a slate panel. The cut-out pattern (e.g., including which and how many slate panels are cut) depends on where the hood portion 104 is being positioned.

[0137] Once the exposed region has been created, at block 1504 of the method 1500, the planar base 102 of the cover / flash 100 is slid under the first and second slate panels 1102, 1104 (referring to the examples of Figures 11 to 13). For example, if the bracket had already been installed and the first and second slate panels 1102, 1104 remained in place, the bracket would obstruct the planar base 102 from sliding underneath the first and second slate panels 1102, 1104. However, because in these examples, the bracket has not yet been installed, it is possible to slide the planar base 102 underneath the first and second slate panels 1102, 1104 in order to position the cover 100 in the in-use cover install position shown in Figures 11 to 13, for example.

[0138] The method 1500 may further comprise positioning the bracket, after positioning the cover 100 at the in-use cover install position, within the hood portion 104 such that the roof fixable portion of the bracket is positioned in abutment against the fixing surface in the given region (which overlaps the described exposed region of the roof frame). For example, in the specific case of the first bracket 900 referred to herein, the first abutment portion 905 is placed in abutment with the fixing surface, and in the case of the second bracket 2100, the second abutment portion 2114 is placed in abutment with the fixing surface.

[0139] Because, as described, the channel opening 1204 of the channel 1202 may be configured such that the bracket can be inserted into the channel opening 1204, theabutment portion can be placed in abutment with the fixing surface after the cover 100 has already been placed in the in-use cover install position.

[0140] For example, the method 1500 may further comprise fixing the roof fixable portion to the fixing surface by accessing the given region through the gap 112. Advantageously, the lid 114 can be removed to expose the exposed region of the roof frame through the gap 112. Therefore, advantageously, the abutment portion can be fixed to the fixing surface by gaining access through the gap 112, even though the cover 100 is already in its in-use cover install position.

[0141] For example, the method 1500 may further comprise affixing the lid 114 onto the first and second side walls 108, 110 after fixing the roof fixable portion to the fixing surface.

[0142] In some examples, there is provided a further method for use in installing, onto a slate roof, a bracket for a solar panel, the method comprising: fixing the bracket to a rafter of the slate roof, wherein the bracket is the second bracket 2100 according to the described examples. Also, in the further method, fixing the second bracket 2100 to the rafter comprises inserting the second roof fixable portion into a channel opening defined by a hood portion of a cover installed on the slate roof. The further method may also comprise manipulating the second bracket 2100 to take up an in-use bracket install position within the channel. For example, manipulating the second bracket 2100 comprises arranging the second extension portion 2112 to abut a part of the hood portion by directly contacting said part such that the second extension portion 2112 acts as a support element to support the cover against gravity.

[0143] It will be appreciated from the above description that in the in-use bracket install position, the second abutment portion 2114 abuts against a fixing surface of the rafter in the given region of the slate roof, the given region being positioned underneath the cover. The further method may also comprise accessing the given region through a gap in the hood portion to fix the second abutment portion 2114 to the fixing surface.

[0144] For example, in the further method, in order to fix the second abutment portion 2114 to the fixing surface, one or more fixing structures 2202 provided on the second abutment portion 2114 are accessed through one or more access structures 2204 in thesecond elongate portion 2102. In some examples, the fixing surface is a surface of the rafter itself such that the second abutment portion directly contacts the rafter when fixed thereon.

[0145] In some examples, in accordance with this disclosure, there may also be provided a further new bracket, different to the brackets which are typically used, such as the first bracket 900 described above. The further new bracket may be particularly advantageous when used together with the described cover 100, as described in the following.

[0146] For the purpose of clarity, the further new bracket will hereafter be referred to as the third bracket, and its components will be referenced with the prefix “third”. The differences between the third bracket, and the second and first brackets 2100, 900 and the particular advantages of the third bracket will be described in the following. As already described, the disclosed cover / flash 100 provides significant advantages when used with brackets which are typically used. However, the third bracket provides further advantages in its own right and when used together with the cover / flash 100.

[0147] Figure 24 is schematic side view of a third bracket 2400, according to examples. Figure 25 is a schematic front view of the third bracket 2400 according to examples. The third bracket 2400 is for installing a solar panel onto a roof. The third bracket 2400 comprises a third elongate portion 2402, a third roof fixable portion 2404 at a first end of the third elongate portion 2402, and a third mount portion 2406 at a second end of the third elongate portion 2402. In these examples, the first end of the third elongate portion 2402 is indicated by numeral 2408, and the second end of the third elongate portion 2402 is indicated by numeral 2410.

[0148] In these examples, the third roof fixable portion 2404 comprises a third extension portion 2412 extending away from the third elongate portion 2402. The third roof fixable portion 2404 also comprises a third abutment portion 2414. In these examples, a first extension end 2412a of the third extension portion 2412 meets the first end 2408 of the third elongate portion 2402. The third roof fixable portion 2404 also comprises a third abutment portion 2414 at a second extension end 2412b of the third extension portion 2412, the third abutment portion 2414 configured to abut a fixing surface of the roof. In these examples, the third abutment portion 2414 and the third elongate portion 2402 extend in opposite directions from and in approximately perpendicular relation to the thirdextension portion 2412. In other words, the third abutment portion 2414 extends in a direction away from the third mount portion 2406. In other words, the third abutment portion 2414 increases the extent of the third bracket 2400 in a direction perpendicular to the length of the third extension portion 2412 between its first extension end 2412a and its second extension end 2412b.

[0149] In these examples, a first abutment end 2414a of the third abutment portion 2414 connects to the second extension end 2412b of the third extension portion. In these examples, there is provided a support element 2416 at a second abutment end 2414b of the third abutment portion 2414. The support element 2416 extends away from the third abutment portion 2414 in substantially the same direction as the third extension portion 2412 extends away from the third abutment portion 2414. In other words, the third extension portion 2412, the third abutment portion 2414 and the support element 2416 of the third bracket 2400 roughly define a C shape as shown in Figure 24. For example, the support element 2416 performs the function of supporting the cover 100 against gravity as described above, for example, by abutting against the inner surface of the end wall 116 in use. In some examples, the support element 2416 may deviate from being perpendicular to the third abutment portion 2414, depending on the desired manner of contact between the support element 2416 and the inner surface of the end wall 116.

[0150] In these examples, the third mount portion 2406 is shown as a single elongate piece extending away from the third elongate portion 2402. This is another example of a mount portion for mounting a solar panel rail and the like. In other examples of the third bracket 2400, the third bracket 2400 may have a mount portion similar to the second bracket 2100 as shown in Figure 22 for example. The third mount portion 2406 may comprising one or more fixing structures (not shown) such as one or more holes for mounting the rail.

[0151] In these examples, the third abutment portion 2414 comprises one or more of the described abutment fixing structures 2202 to receive fixings for fixing the third abutment portion 2414 to a rafter or an otherwise provided fixing surface connected to the rafter of the roof. In these examples of the third bracket 2400, there are two abutment fixing structures 2202, however, any suitable number of abutment fixing structures 2202 may be provided. In these examples, the abutment fixing structures 2202 are circular through holes, however, any suitable shape (circular, slotted, etc.) may be provided. Theabutment fixing structures are indicated in dashed lines in the side view of Figure 24 for illustration.

[0152] During installation, when the third bracket 2400 is in its in-use bracket install position, there is no component of the third bracket 2400 which obstructs access to the third abutment portion 2414 from a direction perpendicular to the planar base 102. For example, unlike the case of the second bracket 2100, a part of the third elongate portion 2402 does not lie in front of the third abutment portion 2414. Advantageously, therefore, access structures such as the access structures 2204 described in relation to the second bracket 2100 are not required. At the same time, the third bracket 2400 still provides the advantage of an integrated support element 2416. Accordingly, the third bracket 2400 may be manufactured more simply with a reduced need to create fixing structures such as holes.

[0153] For example, the brackets according to any of the described examples may comprise metal such as steel. For example, the brackets may be formed from a single piece of steel. For example, the brackets may be stainless steel or galvanised steel.

[0154] It will be appreciated that only a few of the slate panels are shown in Figures 11 to 13 and 20 in order to illustrate certain features. However, in examples, there will be other slate panels adjacent to the slate panels shown.

[0155] The described method using the advantageous cover / flash 100 provides that none of the slate panels are removed from the roof in order to appropriately install the bracket and the cover for the purpose of installing a solar panel onto the roof.

[0156] It should be noted that the Figures are schematic in nature and are for illustrating certain features. The Figures do not necessarily indicate sizes, relative proportions, separations, angles and the like.

[0157] In the above description, various specific examples are described. Attention is directed to all papers and documents which are filed concurrently with or previous to this specification in connection with this application and which are open to public inspection with this specification, and the contents of all such papers and documents are incorporated herein by reference.

[0158] All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and / or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and / or steps are mutually exclusive.

[0159] Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

[0160] The invention is not restricted to the details of the foregoing example(s). The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A cover for a bracket for installing a solar panel on a slate roof having slate panels in a double lapped pattern, the cover comprising: a planar base, where the entire planar base is configured to be positioned, in use, between directly overlaid slate panels of the slate roof in the double lapped pattern; and a hood portion extending away from a top surface of the planar base, wherein the hood portion comprises: a first side wall extending away from the top surface, and a second side wall extending away from the top surface; a gap between the first side wall and the second side wall, the gap configured to provide access to a given region positioned underneath the cover from a direction perpendicular to, or close to perpendicular to, the planar base; and a lid configured to be removably affixed to the first side wall and the second side wall to cover the gap such that ingress of water through the gap is inhibited.

2. The cover according to claim 1 , wherein: the hood portion is configured to cover, in use, an exposed region of a roof frame of the slate roof.

3. The cover according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: the hood portion comprises an integral end wall which extends between a first end portion of the first side wall and a first end portion of the second side wall.

4. The cover according to claim 3, wherein: the end wall is configured to abut a support element positioned within the hood portion to support the cover against gravity by providing a flat inner surface.

5. The cover according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: the hood portion comprises a bridge portion arranged to connect the first side wall to the second side wall, towards a second end portion of the first side wall and a second end of the second side wall.

6. The cover according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein:each of the first and second side walls comprise one or more wall engagement structures; the lid comprises one or more lid engagement structures; and the wall engagement structures are configured to engage with the lid engagement structures to removably affix the lid to the first and second side walls.

7. The cover according to claim 6, wherein: the lid and the first and second side walls are configured such that when the wall engagement structures are engaged with the lid engagement structures, water is prevented, or at least inhibited, from entering into the gap.

8. The cover according to any one of the preceding claims configured to: allow installation of the bracket after the cover has been placed in an in-use cover install position by: when the cover is in an in-use cover install position, the hood portion defining a channel with a channel opening such that the bracket can be inserted into the channel opening and positioned at an in-use bracket install position within the channel.

9. The cover according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: the planar base is configured to be cut to a desired size in accordance with a size of roof slate panels deployed on the roof by comprising a material which can be cut using a utility knife.

10. The cover according to claim 9, wherein: the planar base comprises a plurality of markings to indicate cutting locations corresponding to desired sizes in accordance with a respective plurality of standard roof slate panel sizes.11 . The cover according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: a separation between the first side wall and the second side wall towards the top surface is greater than a separation between the first side wall and the second side wall farther away from the top surface.

12. A method for use in installing, onto a slate roof having slate panels in a double lapped pattern, a bracket for a solar panel, the method comprising:cutting two or more slate panels of the roof in situ, while installed on the roof, to expose a given region of a roof frame under the two or more slate panels; and positioning a cover at an in-use cover install position without removing any of the slate panels, wherein the cover comprises: a planar base, where the entire planar base is configured to be positioned, in use, between directly overlaid slate panels of the slate roof in the double lapped pattern; and a hood portion extending away from a top surface of the planar base, the hood portion overlapping with the given region when the cover is in the in-use cover install position, wherein the hood portion comprises: a first side wall extending away from the top surface, and a second side wall extending away from the top surface; a gap between the first side wall and the second side wall, the gap configured to provide access to a given region positioned underneath the cover; and a lid configured to be removably affixed to the first side wall and the second side wall to cover the gap such that ingress of water into through the gap is inhibited.

13. The method according to claim 12, comprising: positioning the bracket, after positioning the cover at the in-use cover install position, within the hood portion such that a roof fixable portion of the bracket is positioned in abutment against a fixing surface in the given region.

14. The method according to claim 13, comprising: fixing the roof fixable portion to the fixing surface by accessing the given region through the gap.

15. The method according to claim 14, comprising: affixing the lid onto the first and second side walls after fixing the roof fixing portion to the fixing surface.

16. The method according to any one of claims 12 to 15, wherein: the two or more slate panels are cut using an angle grinder.

Images