Photovoltaic device and photovoltaic energy production process

Abstract

Title: Photovoltaic Device and Photovoltaic Energy Production Method. Photovoltaic device, comprising a support structure (2), at least one photovoltaic module (3) mounted on the support structure (2), and at least three legs (4 to 7) configured to support the support structure (2), of which at least two legs (4 to 7) are extendable to allow rotation of the support structure (2) about at least one first axis of rotation (A). The device includes at least three upper ball joints (10 to 13) and at least two lower ball joints (30 to 33) to allow rotation of the support structure (2) about a second axis of rotation (B) perpendicular to said at least one first axis of rotation (A). Figure for the abstract: Fig. 1

Description

Title of the invention: Photovoltaic device and photovoltaic energy production method Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to photovoltaic energy production, in particular energy production from photovoltaic modules. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Currently, photovoltaic modules are used to convert solar energy into electrical energy. Electrical production is generally limited by the heating of the photovoltaic modules and their arrangement, i.e. their orientation, or inclination. A solution often considered is tracking the path of the sun in order to reduce the angle of incidence of the sunlight received by the modules throughout the day. In applications such as agrivoltaics (or agriphotovoltaics or agrovoltaics), the arrangement of the photovoltaic modules must be adapted to the needs and types of plants on the site or building, for example green roofs. Agrivoltaics means the production of electricity using photovoltaic modules arranged at least part of the time above crops.

[0003] For example, we can cite document WO2010128252, which discloses a green roof, comprising above the substrate and plants growing on the substrate, a set of fixed photovoltaic panels. But the photovoltaic modules are fixed to the ground and their orientation is constant regardless of the incidence of the sun during the day, which does not allow for optimizing electricity production.

[0004] Some photovoltaic modules are equipped with a tracking system, called a "tracking system" in English, to modify the orientation of the modules in order to follow the path of the sun.

[0005] Examples include documents FR2889787, WO2021 / 205114, CN113381676 and WO201147828 which disclose photovoltaic modules pivotally mounted around a pivot axis. The modules are pivotally mounted on a support fixed to the ground.

[0006] Document FR 3077463 discloses an agrivoltaic system comprising a supporting structure and rows of photovoltaic sensors extending along respective main axes and mounted to move in translation along two axes, vertical and horizontal, perpendicular to the main axes. The sensors are also mobile in rotation around their respective main axes. However, such a system does not allow the path of the sun to be followed precisely.

[0007] We can also cite document WO2011 / 123156, which discloses panels mobile photovoltaic panels along a main rotation axis, mounted on a mobile frame rotating around a secondary rotation axis perpendicular to the main rotation axis. But when the panels are tilted to follow the path of the sun, shading of the panels appears between them.

[0008] Reference may also be made to document US20210211091, which discloses a photovoltaic panel array device, comprising a flat platform that can be translated horizontally, and a set of photovoltaic panels mounted on the platform. The device comprises four foundation pillars, four columns pivotally articulated on the pillars and the platform, and two telescopic pillars having a first end pivotally mounted on a column and a second end pivotally mounted on the platform, in order to translate the platform. Each panel is rotatable about an axis perpendicular to the translation axis of the platform. However, this system does not prevent the panels from shading each other.

[0009] One object is to provide means for improving the tracking of the sun's path, in order to improve the production of photovoltaic energy.

[0010] Another object is to provide means for modifying the shading under the photovoltaic modules. SUMMARY

[0011] According to one aspect, there is provided a photovoltaic device, comprising a supporting structure, at least one photovoltaic module mounted on the supporting structure, and at least three legs configured to support the supporting structure, among which at least two legs are extendable to allow rotation of the supporting structure around at least a first axis of rotation.

[0012] The device comprises at least three upper ball joints respectively connecting first ends of said at least three legs with the supporting structure, and at least two lower ball joints respectively connecting second ends of said at least two extendable legs with at least two supports of the device intended to be in contact with the ground, in order to allow rotation of the supporting structure around a second axis of rotation perpendicular to said at least one first axis of rotation.

[0013] Thus, a device is provided which makes it possible to modify the orientation of the photovoltaic modules to follow the path of the sun while making it possible to modify the incidence of the sunlight received by the modules in order to limit their heating. Advantageously, such a device makes it possible to optimize the energy produced by the photovoltaic modules while making it possible to modify the shading under the modules for plants.

[0014] According to another aspect, there is provided a photovoltaic power plant comprising a plurality of photovoltaic devices as defined above.

[0015] According to another aspect, there is provided a method of photovoltaic energy production using a photovoltaic device as defined above, comprising a first movement of the supporting structure in rotation around at least a first axis of rotation.

[0016] The method comprises a second movement of the supporting structure in rotation around the second axis of rotation perpendicular to said at least one first axis of rotation.

[0017] According to another aspect, there is provided a computer program product comprising instructions which, when executed by an electronic control unit, enable the electronic control unit to carry out the steps of the method as defined above. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0018] The aims, objects, as well as the characteristics and advantages of the invention will emerge more clearly from the detailed description of embodiments thereof, illustrated by the following accompanying drawings in which:

[0019] [Fig.l] [Fig.l] schematically illustrates in perspective an embodiment of a photovoltaic device according to the invention;

[0020] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] schematically illustrates in perspective a side view of the photovoltaic device illustrated in [Fig.l];

[0021] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] schematically illustrates in perspective another mode of rea installation of a photovoltaic device;

[0022] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] schematically illustrates in perspective a side view of the photovoltaic device shown in [Fig.3];

[0023] [Fig.5] [Fig.5] schematically illustrates in perspective a rear view of the photovoltaic device shown in [Fig.3];

[0024] [Fig.6] [Fig.6] schematically illustrates in perspective another mode of rea installation of a photovoltaic device;

[0025] [Fig.7]

[0026] [Fig.8] Figures 7 and 8, schematically illustrate in perspective views of side of another embodiment of a photovoltaic device;

[0027] [Fig.9]

[0028] [Fig. 10]

[0029] [Fig. 11] Figures 9 to 11, schematically illustrate in perspective views of side of another embodiment of a photovoltaic device;

[0030] [Fig. 12] [Fig. 12] schematically illustrates in perspective a rear view of the photovoltaic device illustrated in Figures 9 to 11; and

[0031] [Fig. 13] [Fig. 13] schematically illustrates the main stages of a method of implementing a photovoltaic energy production process.

[0032] The drawings are given as examples and are not limiting of the invention. They constitute schematic representations of principle intended to facilitate the understanding of the invention and are not necessarily on the scale of practical applications. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] Before beginning a detailed review of embodiments and implementations of the invention, optional features are set out below which may possibly be used in combination or alternatively. - According to one example, the device comprises at least three extendable legs and at least three lower ball joints connecting the second ends of said at least three legs with respectively at least three supports of the device intended to be in contact with the ground, so as to allow rotation of the supporting structure around a third axis of rotation perpendicular to the second axis of rotation. Thanks to a minimum of extendable legs, the supporting structure can be moved along three distinct axes of rotation for better precision in the positioning of the supporting structure. - According to one example, the device comprises four extendable legs, four upper ball joints respectively connecting the first ends of the four extendable legs with the supporting structure, and four lower ball joints respectively connecting the second ends of the four extendable legs with four supports of the device intended to be in contact with the ground, so as to allow rotations of the supporting structure around eight axes of rotation. Thus, a device having eight axes of rotation is provided for modifying the orientation of the photovoltaic modules. - According to one example, at least two upper ball joints are mounted to move in translation on the supporting structure along at least two sliding axes respectively. - According to one example, two first upper ball joints are mounted so as to be able to move in translation on the supporting structure along two first sliding axes respectively, and two second upper ball joints are mounted so as to be able to move in translation on the supporting structure along two second sliding axes respectively, the first and second sliding axes being parallel to each other. - According to one example each sliding axis extends perpendicular to one side of the supporting structure. According to one example, at least two upper ball joints respectively comprise at least two parts mounted to move in translation within at least two grooves provided in the supporting structure, said at least two grooves extending perpendicular to one side of the supporting structure. It is thus possible to allow movement of two upper ball joints perpendicular to one side of the structure to facilitate rotation of the supporting structure relative to an axis of rotation extending parallel to the side of the supporting structure. According to one example, two first upper ball joints respectively comprise two parts mounted to move in translation within two first grooves provided at a first side of the supporting structure, and two second upper ball joints respectively comprise two parts mounted to move in translation within two second grooves provided at a second side of the supporting structure opposite the first side, the first and second grooves extending perpendicularly to the first and second sides. Thus, rotations of the supporting structure around axes parallel to one side of the supporting structure are facilitated. According to one example, at least one groove is an oblong opening. According to one example, the device comprises at least two actuators configured to control an elongation of said at least two extendable feet. It is thus possible to limit the number of actuators for modifying the orientation of the photovoltaic modules. According to one example, the device comprises several photovoltaic modules fixedly mounted on the supporting structure. According to one example, the device comprises at least one sensor for measuring at least one parameter, said at least one parameter being taken from a parameter relating to sunshine of said at least one photovoltaic module and a parameter relating to photovoltaic energy production of said at least one photovoltaic module, and an electronic control unit configured to control the elongation of said at least two extendable feet in order to move the supporting structure according to a measurement of said at least one parameter. According to one example, the device comprises plants planted in a part of the soil, the part of the soil being located below the supporting structure, said at least one parameter being taken from a parameter relating to a humidity of the part of the soil. - According to one example, the device comprises plants planted in a container mounted movably on a part of the ground, the part of the ground being located below the supporting structure, said at least one parameter being taken from: a parameter relating to a humidity present in the container, and the electronic control unit being further configured to control a movement of the container, in order to move the container according to a measurement of said at least one parameter. - According to one example, the method comprises a measurement of at least one parameter, said at least one parameter being taken from a parameter relating to sunshine of said at least one photovoltaic module and a parameter relating to photovoltaic energy production of said at least one photovoltaic module, and at least one of the movements of the supporting structure as a function of the measurement of said at least one parameter. - According to one example, the method comprises determining a position of the supporting structure to be reached, comparing said at least one measured parameter with a control threshold and at least one of the movements of the supporting structure to position the supporting structure in the position to be reached when the measured parameter is strictly greater than the control threshold. - According to one example, the method comprises planting plants in a part of the soil, the part of the soil being located below the supporting structure, said at least one parameter being taken from a parameter relating to a humidity of the part of the soil. - According to one example, the method comprises planting plants in a container mounted movably on a part of the ground, the part of the ground being located below the supporting structure, said at least one parameter being taken from a parameter relating to a humidity present in the container, and at least one movement of the container depending on the measurement of said at least one parameter.

[0034] Figures 1 to 12 show a photovoltaic device 1, comprising a supporting structure 2 and at least one photovoltaic module 3 mounted on the supporting structure 2. A photovoltaic module 3 is configured to transform solar energy into electrical energy. The device may comprise several photovoltaic modules 3, preferably a single photovoltaic module 3.

[0035] Generally, each module 3 is mounted on the supporting structure 2. For example, the modules 3 are mounted fixedly on the supporting structure 2. In this case, the modules 3 are immobile relative to the supporting structure 2. Alternatively, the modules 3 can be pivotally mounted on the supporting structure 2.

[0036] The supporting structure 2 may be a frame, that is to say a parallel structure- piped. In this case, the supporting structure 2 comprises four sides 60 to 63. For example, the supporting structure 2 comprises four sides parallel two by two. The four sides 60 to 63 can be equal. For example, the frame can be made of steel profile.

[0037] The device 1 further comprises at least three legs 4 to 7 configured to support the supporting structure 2. The legs 4 to 7 are configured to connect the supporting structure 2 to the ground. In particular, at least two legs 4 to 7 are extendable to allow rotation of the supporting structure 2 about at least a first axis of rotation A. For example, an extendable leg may be a jack or a telescopic leg. A jack may be pneumatic, hydraulic and preferably electric. A jack comprises a rod that is retractable within a cylinder and that can be deployed outside the cylinder. A telescopic leg comprises several tubular elements that retract into each other and can be deployed to form a rod-shaped leg. Generally, an extendable leg 4 to 7 is configured to lengthen and shorten in order to modify the orientation of the supporting structure 2.

[0038] More particularly, the device 1 comprises at least three upper ball joints 10 to 13 and at least two lower ball joints 30 to 33, in order to allow rotation of the supporting structure 2 around a second axis of rotation B perpendicular to the first axis of rotation A. Thus, the supporting structure 2 can be driven in rotation around at least two axes A, B perpendicular to each other. This improves the possibilities of orientation of the photovoltaic module 3 for better tracking of the path of the sun. Furthermore, when the device comprises several photovoltaic modules 3 mounted fixedly on the supporting structure 2, this avoids shading of the modules 3 between them.

[0039] An upper ball joint 10 to 13 connects a first end 20 to 23 of a foot 4 to 7 with the supporting structure 2.

[0040] A lower ball joint 30 to 33 connects a second end 40 to 43 of an extendable foot 4 to 7 with a support 50 to 53 of the device 1.

[0041] Generally, a ball joint 10 to 13 and 30 to 33 is a pivoting and rotating joint connecting two parts intended to be moved in pivoting and rotation relative to each other. A ball joint comprises a seat that is at least partly spherical and a pivot provided with a rod fixed to a head that is partly spherical, the head being housed in rotation and pivoting in the seat. For example, as illustrated in Figures 1 and 3, an upper ball joint 10 to 13 comprises a pivot whose rod is connected to the supporting structure 2 and the seat is connected to a first end 20 to 23 of a foot 4 to 7. Alternatively, an upper ball joint 10 to 13 may comprise a pivot whose rod is connected to a first end 20 to 23 of a foot 4 to 7 and the seat is connected to the supporting structure 2.

[0042] According to another example, as illustrated in Figures 1 and 3, a ball joint in lower 30 to 33 comprises a pivot whose rod is connected to a support 50 to 53 and the seat is connected to the second end 40 to 43 of a foot 4 to 7. Alternatively, a lower ball joint 30 to 33 may comprise a pivot whose rod is connected to the second end 40 to 43 of a foot 4 to 7 and the seat is connected to the support 50 to 53.

[0043] A support 50 to 53 is intended to be in contact with the ground. For example, a support 50 to 53 may be fixed to the ground. A support 50 to 53 may be made of steel.

[0044] In [Fig. 1], an embodiment is shown in which the device 1 comprises three upper ball joints 10 to 12 respectively connecting three first ends 20 to 22 of three legs 4 to 6 with the supporting structure 2. The device 1 further comprises two lower ball joints 30 to 31 connecting two second ends 40 to 41 of two extendable legs 4 to 5 with respectively two supports 50 to 51 of the device 1.

[0045] As a variant, the device 1 may comprise three extendable legs 4 to 6, three lower ball joints 30 to 32 connecting three second ends 40 to 42 of the three legs 4 to 6 with respectively three supports 50 to 52 of the device 1. According to this variant, the device 1 allows rotation of the supporting structure 2 around a third axis of rotation C perpendicular to the second axis of rotation B.

[0046] According to another embodiment, illustrated in Figures 3 to 12, the device 1 comprises four extendable legs 4 to 7, four upper ball joints 10 to 13 respectively connecting the first ends 20 to 23 of the four extendable legs 4 to 7 with the supporting structure 2. The device 1 further comprises four lower ball joints 30 to 33 connecting the second ends 40 to 43 of the four extendable legs 4 to 7 with respectively four supports 50 to 53 of the device 1. According to this embodiment, the device 1 allows eight rotations of the supporting structure 2 around respectively eight distinct axes of rotation A to H. More particularly, the eight axes of rotation A to H are shown in [Fig.5]. The supporting structure 2 comprises four axes of rotation D, F, A and E extending respectively along the four sides 60 to 63 of the supporting structure 2.Furthermore, the supporting structure 2 comprises two axes of rotation B and C, perpendicular to each other, and extending respectively along the medians of the supporting structure 2. The supporting structure also comprises two axes of rotation G, H extending respectively along the diagonals of the supporting structure 2. In [Fig. 7], an example of rotation of the supporting structure 2 is shown. In the example, two first extendable legs 4, 5 are shortened and the other two extendable legs 6, 7 are lengthened. Thus, the supporting structure 2 has rotated relative to the axes of rotation A, C and D. According to another example illustrated in [Fig. 8], the first two extendable legs 4, 5 are lengthened, by the same length as those of the other two extendable legs 6, 7. Thus, the supporting structure 2 can be placed horizontally.

[0047] Using eight rotation axes, the orientation of the module 3 can be modified and the accuracy of tracking the sun's path can be improved. The device 1 makes it possible to optimize the capture of solar energy throughout the day and possibly to avoid shading the photovoltaic modules 3 between themselves and the shading created by surrounding elements, such as plants, buildings, etc.

[0048] By modifying the length of the extendable legs, the supporting structure 2 can be rotated along one of the rotation axes A to H, and thus the orientation of the photovoltaic module 3 can be modified.

[0049] The supporting structure behaves like a tracking system with several axes A to H.

[0050] Advantageously, at least two upper ball joints 10 to 13 are mounted so as to be movable in translation on the supporting structure 2 along at least two sliding axes C1 to C4 respectively. For example, two first upper ball joints 10, 11 are mounted so as to be movable in translation on the supporting structure 2 along two first sliding axes C1, C2 respectively. Furthermore, two second upper ball joints 12, 13 are mounted so as to be movable in translation on the supporting structure 2 along two second sliding axes C3, C4 respectively. The first and second sliding axes C1 to C4 are parallel to each other. For example, each sliding axis C1 to C4 extends perpendicular to a side 60 to 63 of the supporting structure 2. In [Fig.3], an example is shown in which the sliding axes C1 to C4 are perpendicular to two opposite sides 60, 62 of the supporting structure 2.The translations of the upper ball joints 10 to 13 facilitate the rotational movements of the supporting structure 2.

[0051] For example, at least two upper ball joints 10 to 13 respectively comprise at least two parts 90 mounted to move in translation within at least two grooves 80 to 83 provided in the supporting structure 2. At least two grooves 80 to 83 extend perpendicular to a side 60 to 63 of the supporting structure 2. Thus, rotation of the supporting structure 2 is facilitated along the axes of rotation A, D and C. For example, a groove 80 to 83 is an oblong opening. The oblong opening may be through or blind.

[0052] As an example, [Fig. 6] shows the movable part of an upper ball joint 10. A movable part 90 may be a carriage mounted so as to move in translation on a rail. The rail makes it possible to guide the carriage in translation. The rail may be housed within a groove 80 to 83. According to another example, the rail may be mounted on the supporting structure 2 and form a groove 80 to 83. The carriage may comprise bearings for translating by rolling on the rail. Alternatively, the carriage may comprise slides cooperating with the rail for translating by sliding on the rail.

[0053] Advantageously, two first upper ball joints 10, 11 respectively comprise two parts mounted to move in translation within respectively two first grooves 80, 81 provided at a first side 60 of the supporting structure 2. In addition, two second upper ball joints 12, 13 respectively comprise two parts mounted to move in translation within respectively two second grooves 82, 83 provided at a second side 62 of the supporting structure 2 opposite the first side 60. For example, the first and second grooves 80 to 83 extend perpendicular to the first and second sides 60, 62. It is thus possible to facilitate rotations of the supporting structure 2 around axes A, D and C parallel to one side of the supporting structure 60, 62.

[0054] According to another advantage, the device 1 comprises at least two actuators 70 to 73 configured to control an elongation of at least two extendable legs 4 to 7. For example, the extendable legs 4 to 7 are jacks and the actuators 70 to 73 are the cylinders of the jacks within which the rods can be extended or retracted. Using two actuators 70 to 73, the supporting structure 2 can be driven in rotation around the first and second axes of rotation A, B. The device 1 can also comprise four actuators 70 to 73 to respectively control an elongation of four extendable legs 4 to 7 to enable the supporting structure 2 to be driven in rotation along the eight axes of rotation A to H.

[0055] Furthermore, the device 1 may comprise an electronic control unit 100 configured to control the extension of the extendable legs 4 to 7 in order to move the supporting structure 2. The electronic control unit 100 makes it possible to move the supporting structure 2 in an automated manner. The electronic control unit 100 may be a microprocessor or a programmable logic controller. The electronic control unit 100 is coupled, by four connections 101 to 104, respectively to the four actuators 70 to 73. The electronic control unit 100 can control the actuators 70 to 73 in order to modify the length of the extendable legs 4 to 7, that is to say to extend, or retract, the extendable legs 4 to 7. The changes in length of the extendable legs 4 to 7 make it possible to animate the supporting structure 2 according to the different axes of rotation A to H. The supporting structure 2 can therefore be oriented in different directions.

[0056] Advantageously, the device 1 may comprise at least one sensor 200, 201 for measuring at least one parameter. For example, a sensor 200, 201 may be fixed to the supporting structure 2, or integrated within the module 3. A parameter may be taken from a parameter relating to sunshine of a photovoltaic module 3 and a parameter relating to photovoltaic energy production of the photovoltaic module 3.

[0057] For example, a parameter relating to the sunshine of a photovoltaic module 3 may be a global sunshine parameter Gl, measured using a pyranometer. or a reference photovoltaic cell of the module 3; an ambient air temperature, measured using a temperature sensor or an anemometer under weather shelter; a wind speed and direction, measured using an anemometer. A pyranometer is a heat flux sensor used for measuring a quantity of solar energy. A parameter relating to a photovoltaic energy production of the photovoltaic module 3 may be a parameter relating to an electrical measurement, for example an instantaneous current Idc, preferably upstream of an inverter, measured by a current sensor; a parameter relating to a thermal measurement of the photovoltaic module 3, preferably a thermal measurement of the photovoltaic cell closest to the center of the photovoltaic module 3, measured using a thermocouple or a temperature sensor.

[0058] The sensors 200, 201 and the actuators 70 to 73 may be powered in part by the photovoltaic modules 3. Furthermore, the sensors 200, 201 may be coupled to the electronic control unit 100, by connections 202, 203. The electronic control unit 100 may be configured to control the elongation of the extendable feet 4 to 7 in order to move the supporting structure 2 according to a measurement of at least one parameter. Such a device 1 is particularly suitable for modifying the orientation of the supporting structure 2 so that the photovoltaic module 3 follows the path of the sun. Furthermore, the orientation of the supporting structure may be modified according to meteorological or temperature parameters to avoid overheating of the photovoltaic module 3.

[0059] Generally, a method for producing photovoltaic energy can be provided using the photovoltaic device 1 as defined above. The method comprises a first displacement of the supporting structure 2 in rotation around at least one first axis of rotation A to H, and a second displacement of the supporting structure 2 in rotation around a second axis of rotation A to H distinct from the first axis of rotation A to H, and in particular perpendicular to the first axis of rotation A to H. The method can further comprise a measurement of at least one parameter, and at least one of the displacements of the supporting structure 2 as a function of the measurement of the parameter.

[0060] In Figures 7 to 8, a variant is shown in which the device comprises plants 300 planted in a part of the ground. Such a device is particularly suitable for agrivoltaics or for photovoltaic green roofs. The part of the ground is located below the supporting structure 2. The parameter can be taken from a parameter relating to a humidity of the part of the ground, measured using a sensor of the quantity of water present in the ground. The parameter relating to a humidity of the part of the ground can be a quantity of water, a percentage of water present in the part of the ground. Furthermore, the electronic control unit 100 can calculate parameters relating to plants 300 from a type of plants, for example a parameter relating to the need for sunlight of plants 300, such as a duration of exposure of the plants to the sun.

[0061] The electronic control unit 100 can also calculate a parameter relating to shading under the module 3. For example, the parameter relating to shading under the module 3 can be calculated from a ratio between the overall sunshine parameter G1 and the instantaneous current Idc.

[0062] The electronic control unit 100 can furthermore control the extension of the extendable feet 4 to 7 as a function of a parameter relating to the plants 300 and / or the parameter relating to shading under the module 3.

[0063] Thus, the orientation of the photovoltaic module 3 can be modified so as to modify the shading of the plants 300 located under the module 3. The device 1 makes it possible to optimize the growth of the plants 300.

[0064] According to this variant, the method may comprise at least one of the movements of the supporting structure 2 as a function of the measurement of at least one parameter, and / or the calculation of a parameter relating to the plants 300, or of the parameter relating to shading under the module 3.

[0065] In Figures 9 to 12, another variant is shown in which the device 1 comprises plants planted in a container 400 mounted movably on a part of the ground, the part of the ground being located below the supporting structure 2. The parameter can be taken from a parameter relating to a humidity present in the container 400, measured using a sensor of the quantity of water present in the container 400.

[0066] The electronic control unit 100 is further configured to control a movement of the tray, in order to move the tray according to a measurement of at least one parameter, and / or the calculation of a parameter relating to the plants 300, or the parameter relating to shading under the module 3.

[0067] Advantageously, the supporting structure 2 can be moved in vertical translation to modify the shading under the module 3, as illustrated in [Fig.9]. Three positions of the supporting structure 2 are shown, by way of example, respectively at three distinct heights relative to the ground. The supporting structure 2 can also be moved to protect the plants from the rain or to slightly heat the plants in the event of cold weather by heat exchange through radiation produced by the photovoltaic module 3. For example, the supporting structure 2 can be moved upwards by extending the extendable legs 4 to 7, or downwards by shortening the extendable legs 4 to 7.

[0068] In [Fig. 12], a rear view of the device 1 is shown in which the tray 400 is located below the supporting structure 2, so that the tray 400 is entirely shaded by the module 3.

[0069] In [Fig. 10], an example is shown in which the tray 400 is moved towards the rear of the module 3, where plant watering systems 300 can be arranged. Conversely, in [Fig. 1 1] an example is shown in which the tray 400 is moved in front of the module 3, to protect them from untimely watering, or to place the plants in full light.

[0070] The electronic control unit 100 may comprise a computer program comprising instructions for controlling each of the actuators 70 to 73 in order to be able to automate the movements of the supporting structure 2. The electronic control unit 100 comprises a processor or a microprocessor for executing the instructions of the program. The electronic control unit 100 also comprises means for controlling the actuators 70 to 73 in response to the execution of the instructions of the program.

[0071] In [Fig. 13], an embodiment of the photovoltaic energy production method is shown. For example, the method comprises a first step S1 in which the electronic control unit 100 determines a position of the supporting structure 2 to be reached from at least the first movement and the second movement. The position to be reached may correspond to an optimal position in which the photovoltaic energy production is maximum as a function of a position of the sun corresponding to a specific time of day. The specific time may be calculated by the electronic control unit 100. Then, the method comprises a second step S2 in which the electronic control unit 100 controls the actuators 70 to 73 to modify the length of the extendable legs 4 to 7 in order to position the supporting structure 2 in the position to be reached.The second step S2 may be performed at the aforementioned specific time, or before in anticipation, for example one hour before the specific time. Furthermore, the method may comprise an intermediate step S3, performed after the first step S1 and before the second step S2, comprising a comparison of at least one measured parameter with a control threshold and if the measured parameter is strictly greater than the control threshold, the electronic control unit 100 calculates a new position of the supporting structure 2 to be reached. For example, the second step S2 comprises a comparison between a measurement and a prediction of a parameter relating to a photovoltaic energy production of the photovoltaic module 3. If the comparison is strictly greater than 5%, the electronic control unit 100 calculates a new position to be reached.The second step S2 may comprise a comparison between a measurement of a parameter relating to shading under the module 3 and a shading threshold. The second step S2 may comprise a comparison, called thermal, between a measurement of a parameter relating to a thermal measurement of the photovoltaic module 3 and a heating threshold of the photovoltaic module 3. Advantageously. the thermal comparison can be carried out for a determined duration, for example 30 minutes, beyond which the new position to be reached is actually calculated. The method can comprise a protection step S4, in which the electronic control unit 100 carries out a comparison between the measured wind speed and a speed threshold for a specific duration, for example 10 minutes, and if the measured wind speed is strictly greater than the speed threshold for a duration greater than the specific duration, the electronic control unit 100 controls the actuators 70 to 73 to modify the length of the extendable feet 4 to 7 in order to position the supporting structure 2 in a safety position in which the supporting structure 2 is horizontal.

[0072] Several photovoltaic devices 1 can be assembled to form a photovoltaic power plant. The devices can be mounted individually or connected in series or in parallel, using a connection to a battery or to an electrical distribution network via inverters or microinverters. The inverters can be fixed on the supports 50 to 53 of the device 1.

[0073] The device and method defined above allow the management of the position not only for tracking the path of the sun but also to limit shading between photovoltaic modules, due to surrounding plants or trees or to allow maintenance or activities under the photovoltaic modules, such as work, crops, or animal passages.

Claims

Claims

1. Photovoltaic device, comprising a supporting structure (2), at least one photovoltaic module (3) mounted on the supporting structure (2), at least three feet (4 to 7) configured to support the supporting structure (2) among which at least two feet (4 to 7) are extendable to allow rotation of the supporting structure (2) around at least a first axis of rotation (A), at least three upper ball joints (10 to 13) respectively connecting first ends (20 to 23) of said at least three feet (4 to 7) with the supporting structure (2), and at least two lower ball joints (30 to 33) connecting second ends (40 to 43) of said at least two extendable feet (4 to 7) with respectively at least two supports (50 to 53) of the device intended to be in contact with the ground,in order to allow rotation of the supporting structure (2) around a second axis of rotation (B) perpendicular to said at least one first axis of rotation (A), characterized in that the device comprises four extendable legs (4 to 7), four upper ball joints (10 to 13) respectively connecting the first ends (20 to 23) of the four extendable legs (4 to 7) with the supporting structure (2), and four lower ball joints (30 to 33) connecting the second ends (40 to 43) of the four extendable legs (4 to 7) with respectively four supports (50 to 53) of the device intended to be in contact with the ground, so as to allow rotations of the supporting structure (2) around eight distinct axes of rotation (A to H), and in that at least two upper ball joints (10 to 13) are mounted movable in translation on the supporting structure (2) respectively along at least two sliding axes.

2. Device according to the preceding claim, in which two first upper ball joints (10, 11) are mounted so as to be able to move in translation on the supporting structure (2) respectively along two first sliding axes, and two second upper ball joints (12, 13) are mounted so as to be able to move in translation on the supporting structure (2) respectively along two second sliding axes, the first and second sliding axes being parallel to each other.

3. Device according to any one of claims 1 and 2, in which each sliding axis extends perpendicular to a side (60 to 63) of the supporting structure (2).

4. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, in which at least two upper ball joints (10 to 13) respectively comprise at least two parts mounted to move in translation within at least two grooves (80 to 83) provided in the supporting structure (2), said at least two grooves (80 to 83) extending perpendicular to one side (60 to 63) of the supporting structure (2).

5. Device according to the preceding claim, in which two first upper ball joints (10, 11) respectively comprise two parts mounted movable in translation within respectively two first grooves provided (80, 81) at a first side (60) of the supporting structure (2), and two second upper ball joints (12, 13) respectively comprise two parts mounted movable in translation within respectively two second grooves (82, 83) provided at a second side (62) of the supporting structure (2) opposite the first side (60), the first and second grooves (80 to 83) extending perpendicular to the first and second sides (60, 62).

6. A device according to any one of claims 4 or 5, wherein at least one groove (80 to 83) is an oblong opening.

7. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising at least two actuators (70 to 73) configured to control an elongation of said at least two extendable legs (4 to 7).

8. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising several photovoltaic modules (3) fixedly mounted on the supporting structure (2).

9. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one sensor for measuring at least one parameter, said at least one parameter being taken from a parameter relating to sunshine of said at least one photovoltaic module (3) and a parameter relating to photovoltaic energy production of said at least one photovoltaic module (3), and an electronic control unit configured to control the elongation of said at least two extendable feet (4 to 7) in order to move the supporting structure (2) according to a measurement of said at least one parameter.

10. Device according to the preceding claim, comprising plants planted in a part of the ground, the part of the ground being located below the supporting structure (2), said at least one parameter being taken from a parameter relating to a humidity of the part of the ground.

11. Device according to claim 9, comprising plants planted in a container mounted movably on a part of the ground, the part of the ground being located below the supporting structure (2), said at least one parameter being taken from a parameter relating to a humidity present in the container, and the electronic control unit being further configured to control a movement of the container, in order to move the container according to a measurement of said at least one parameter.

12. A photovoltaic power plant comprising a plurality of photovoltaic devices according to any one of the preceding claims.

13. A method of photovoltaic energy production using a photovoltaic device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising a first movement of the supporting structure (2) in rotation around at least one first axis of rotation (A), characterized in that the method comprises a second movement of the supporting structure (2) in rotation around the second axis of rotation (B) perpendicular to said at least one first axis of rotation (A).

14. Method according to the preceding claim, comprising a measurement of at least one parameter, said at least one parameter being taken from a parameter relating to sunshine of said at least one photovoltaic module (3) and a parameter relating to photovoltaic energy production of said at least one photovoltaic module (3), and at least one of the movements of the supporting structure (2) as a function of the measurement of said at least one parameter.

15. Method according to the preceding claim, comprising a determination of a position of the supporting structure (2) to be reached, a comparison of said at least one measured parameter with a control threshold and at least one of the movements of the supporting structure (2) to position the supporting structure (2) in the position to be reached when the measured parameter is strictly greater than the control threshold.

16. Method according to the preceding claim, comprising planting plants in a part of the soil, the part of the soil being located below the supporting structure (2), said at least one parameter being taken from a parameter relating to a humidity of the part of the soil.

17. A method according to claim 14, comprising planting plants in a container movably mounted on a portion of the ground, the portion of the ground being located below the supporting structure (2), said at least one parameter being taken from a parameter relating to a humidity present in the tank, and at least one movement of the tank as a function of the measurement of said at least one parameter.

18. A computer program product comprising instructions which, when executed by an electronic control unit (100), enable the electronic control unit (100) to carry out the steps of the method according to any one of claims 13 to 16.

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