BUILDING CLADDING COMPRISING AN ADJUSTABLE PANEL FIXING STRUCTURE AND METHOD FOR INSTALLING SUCH CLADDING ON A BUILDING

Abstract

The invention relates to a building cladding (1000) for a building (2000) consisting of a panel (500) comprising two lower (1A) and upper (1B) rails fixed to the building (2000), each forming a channel; a first part (200) and a second part (300) comprising a panel rail that carries the panel (500) and, in a fixed position, a lower support that cooperates with the lower rail; and a movable upper hook assembly that translates under the action of user-accessible adjustment means between an insertion position and a vertical support position for the panel rail; and a method for mounting the cladding (1000) by first resting the lower support on the lower rail, then positioning the upper hook assembly on the upper rail, adjusting it into position, and locking it in position. Abstract figure: Fig. 1

Description

Title of the invention: BUILDING CLADDING COMPRISING A PANEL FIXING STRUCTURE ADJUSTABLE IN POSITION AND METHOD FOR INSTALLING SUCH CLADDING ON A BUILDING

[0001] The invention relates to a building cladding comprising at least one structure for fixing a panel adjustable in position on the structure, the structure comprising a first supporting part, arranged to be permanently fixed on the building, and a second part arranged to be removably fixed on the first part and to carry the at least one panel, the first part comprising at least two mounting rails, one lower one arranged to be mounted closer to the ground than the other upper one and parallel to it, each mounting rail comprising at least one part with an open hollow profile forming a chute, the opening of which is arranged to be turned towards the side opposite the ground, the open hollow profile being arranged to receive in support a lower hook assembly of the second part.

[0002] The invention also relates to a building comprising at least one such cladding.

[0003] The invention also relates to a method of installing such cladding on a building.

[0004] The invention relates to the field of cladding buildings with panels having technical functions, such as insulation, energy storage, air circulation, lighting, display, or aesthetic functions.

[0005] Document EP3182580A1 is known from the prior art, which describes a photovoltaic module for a ventilated facade, comprising a photovoltaic panel composed of a front window, a rear window, lamination films adhering to the windows, and a set of photovoltaic cells arranged between the windows and films, these cells being arranged in parallel rows between them and separated by conductive tracks; the rear window of the photovoltaic panel is permanently connected to wings of vertically oriented aluminum carrier profiles, the cores of which are provided with profiled hooks at their ends, and the edge of a membrane resting on the horizontal edge of a metal angle iron with equal branches is adjacent to the lower side of the rear window.

[0006] Document EP3594427Al describes a system for fixing facade elements, in particular glass or photovoltaic modules, on a facade with mounting profiles arranged on a building wall, and connecting means which are connected on the one hand to the rear side of the facade elements (and on the other hand can be connected to the mounting profiles. The fastening system comprises mounting profiles of a first type and mounting profiles of a second type for a substantially horizontal arrangement on a substructure of a building wall. Further components of the fastening system are a fastening profile for arrangement on the rear side of the facade elements, an anchor for releasably arrangement on the fastening profile, and a sliding support on the profile of the second type is guided longitudinally in the profile direction. The mounting profiles, the anchor and the sliding support are designed to have a first form-fit connection between the anchor and the mounting profile of the first type and a second plug-in connection between the anchor and the sliding part.

[0007] Document CH708361A1 describes a facade anchor for fixing facade elements to a building wall has a first front insertion end for anchoring in a building wall and a second rear end with a fixing option for fixing facade elements. Between the first and second ends is a rod section made of a fiber-reinforced plastic. The front end has at least one intermediate section of reduced diameter, and the fiber reinforcement is formed by a preferably predominantly unidirectional fiber fabric or by strands aligned essentially in the longitudinal direction.

[0008] Document US2020291659A1 describes a profiled element and a facade system for mounting on buildings, having facade panels connected to profiled elements, each profiled element having a receiving section, a fixing section and a mounting section. The receiving section forms a receiving space at its free end and the fixing section is formed such that it rests at least partially on the back of the facade panel. The fixing section is positioned relative to the facade panel such that the mounting section extends beyond the facade panel.

[0009] Document EP2180115A1 describes a device comprising a set of L-shaped end pieces connected by a plate-shaped spacer element that bridges a gap between a support frame and a building envelope panel. The spacer element is made of a material having a thermal conductivity of 20 Watts per meter Kelvin to increase the resistance to heat transfer between the end pieces. Fastening passages are provided in the spacer element and the end pieces, and a fastener, i.e., a rivet fastener, is formed between the end pieces and the spacer element by the fastening passages. The spacer element is provided with a non-metallic material such as wood, a ceramic or polymer material, or metal.

[0010] However, the facade claddings of the prior art remain difficult to install, the Geometric adjustments between panels are delicate and in some cases require significant gaps between panels. In addition, removing these panels is sometimes dangerous.

[0011] The objective of the present invention is to overcome these drawbacks by proposing a very versatile facade cladding, with panels of all types, with technical or aesthetic functionalities, and in particular very well suited to the installation of photovoltaic panels in complete safety for both equipment and personnel.

[0012] To achieve this objective, the invention proposes a cladding intended for a building, said building being arranged on a ground, said cladding comprising a structure for fixing a panel adjustable in position relative to the structure, the structure comprising a first part intended to be fixed in support on the building comprising a lower rail and an upper rail intended to be mounted parallel, the lower rail being arranged to be mounted closer to the ground than the upper rail, the lower rail and the upper rail each comprising at least one part with an open hollow profile forming a chute comprising an opening arranged to be turned towards the side opposite the ground, the structure further comprising a second part intended to be fixed removably on the first part comprising a panel rail intended to carry said panel, directly or through fixing means,the panel rail comprising a lower hook assembly, the open hollow profile of the lower rail being intended to receive the lower hook assembly in support, the panel rail is capable of being movable in a longitudinal direction in which the lower rail extends, the cladding having a vertical direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and a transverse direction perpendicular to the vertical direction and to the longitudinal direction, the panel rail further comprising an upper hook assembly comprising a closing hook arranged to cooperate by clipping with the upper rail, the upper hook assembly and the panel rail comprising translational guide means and adjustment means, the upper hook assembly being capable of being movable in translation relative to the panel rail.

[0013] Thanks to the invention, it is possible to pre-position the panel in support by its lower hook assembly inserted in the channel of the lower rail taking up part of its weight, then to tilt the panel and ensure its fixing on the upper rail with the upper hook assembly, in a connection allowing adjustments before locking in position.

[0014] Advantageously, the upper hook assembly comprises clamping means comprising said closing hook intended to grip the upper rail in a position for maintaining vertical support of the panel rail.

[0015] Thus, the panel is held securely on the upper rail by a clamping effect.

[0016] Advantageously, the upper hook assembly comprises a movable hook capable of be movable in translation along the panel rail under the action of the adjustment means for support on the upper rail and for vertical adjustment of the panel rail relative to the building.

[0017] This configuration allows the position of the panel to be adjusted in a first direction, in particular vertical.

[0018] Advantageously, the adjustment means comprise a threaded shaft controllable by a nut axially stoppable by a nut support, the threaded shaft being capable of cooperating with a tapping of the movable hook to move it in translation.

[0019] Thus, the adjustment means are both robust and inexpensive, allowing fine and reproducible adjustment.

[0020] Advantageously, the upper hook assembly comprises immobilizing means arranged to press the upper rail and the panel rail against each other.

[0021] Thus, the friction between the upper rail and the panel rail, combined with this mechanical immobilization, guarantees the good holding of the panel even in the event of severe weather (strong winds, shear winds, unusual climatic loads, and the like).

[0022] Advantageously, the immobilization means comprise the closing hook arranged to, in a locked holding position of the panel rail, immobilize the panel rail on the upper rail, and to, in an unlocked holding position, allow a translational movement of the upper hook assembly in the direction of the upper rail, to allow a lateral adjustment of the position of the panel.

[0023] Thus, adjustment of the panel is permitted in a second direction, in particular horizontal. The closing hook is a proven, simple and inexpensive mechanical solution. The choice of a closing hook also makes it possible to grip a retracting wing of the upper rail in an advantageous variant.

[0024] Advantageously, the closing hook comprises a guide pin and a first bore capable of guiding the guide pin, said closing hook being capable of being movable in rotation and / or in translation relative to the movable hook, said upper hook assembly comprising locking guides interposed between the movable hook and the closing hook, each locking guide each comprising a first lower oblong groove in which the guide pin is capable of being movable and a second upper oblong groove oblique relative to the first lower oblong groove and which is capable of receiving a pin guided in a second bore of the closing hook.

[0025] The kinematics of guidance by oblong lights is simple, reliable, and reversible.

[0026] Advantageously, the closing hook comprises a guide pin and a first bore capable of guiding the guide pin, said closing hook being capable of being movable in rotation and / or in translation relative to the movable hook, said upper hook assembly comprising locking guides interposed between the movable hook and the closing hook, each locking guide each comprising a single oblong slot in which the guide pin on which the closing hook is pivotally mounted is capable of being movable, forming an external double yoke surrounding the movable hook.

[0027] Advantageously, the upper hook assembly comprises at least one spring capable of working in repulsion fixed to the closing hook and capable of keeping the upper hook assembly open.

[0028] Installation is thus simplified for the operator.

[0029] Advantageously, the panel rail is capable of being angularly and translationally movable to allow the insertion or extraction of the upper hook assembly into or from the channel of the upper rail in order to allow the installation or removal of said panel.

[0030] Here again, the arrangement facilitates installation and removal operations.

[0031] Advantageously, the lower hook assembly comprises a lower support comprising a substantially cylindrical lower part substantially complementary to the open hollow profile of the lower rail to allow angular movement of the panel rail relative to the lower rail during assembly or disassembly, the lower hook assembly further comprising a fixing plate intended for fixing the lower hook assembly to the panel rail, and, on the side opposite the panel rail, a stop arranged to cooperate in bearing with the lower rail, in a mounted and assembled position of the second part on the first part.

[0032] The pivoting of the panel is thus facilitated, and the stop constitutes an anti-tilt safety device.

[0033] Advantageously, the panel rail comprises, at its end closest to the ground, a panel support arranged to support the weight of said panel.

[0034] This arrangement allows the panel to be fixed a posteriori to the panel rails already installed and pre-positioned on the rails. It also provides safety during handling and relieves the means for fixing the panel to the panel rails.

[0035] Advantageously, the means for fixing the panel to the panel rail comprise at least one interface seal or at least one film of adhesive.

[0036] This avoids the use of mechanical fixing means which, in addition to their cost, may prove unsuitable with panels, particularly those comprising glazing, of low thickness.

[0037] Advantageously, the panel is a photovoltaic panel, or a reflective glazing panel, or a panel comprising light diffusion or display means, or an insulation panel, or a forced air circulation panel.

[0038] The invention is thus versatile, and suitable for installing any type of panel.

[0039] The invention also relates to a building comprising a cladding according to the invention and a panel, said panel being a photovoltaic panel, or a reflective glazing panel, or a panel comprising light diffusion or display means, or an insulation panel, or a forced air circulation panel.

[0040] The invention also relates to a method of installing a cladding according to the invention on a building defining a plane, said building being arranged on a ground defining a vertical direction according to the Earth's gravity field, a longitudinal direction perpendicular to the vertical direction, the vertical direction and the longitudinal direction forming a plane parallel to said plane of the building, and a transverse direction perpendicular to the vertical direction and to the longitudinal direction, the method comprising the following steps: a step of obtaining a cladding according to the invention; a step of fixing to the building the lower rail and the upper rail mounted parallel to each other in the longitudinal direction, the lower rail being mounted closest to the ground, with the chute openings facing the side opposite the ground;a step of fixing the lower hook assembly and the upper hook assembly to each panel rail through the translational guide means and the adjustment means; a step of separating the upper hook assembly and the lower hook assembly by acting on the adjustment means; a step of introducing each lower hook assembly into the channel of the lower rail for temporary holding in the vertical direction; a step of adjusting the position of the upper hook assembly of each panel rail, so that its closing hook fits into the channel of the upper rail; a step of fixing the upper hook assembly of each panel rail by clipping onto the upper rail; a step of adjusting the position of the panel rail in the vertical direction. ;

[0041] This makes it easy to adapt to the building layout and to best adapt the fixing means for each panel. It is possible to choose to directly install the panel equipped with its panel rail or rails, or, conversely, to first position these panel rails and fix the panel to them. This greatly facilitates the organization of the site.

[0042] Advantageously, the method comprises a step of adjusting the longitudinal position of each panel rail in the longitudinal direction after the introduction step.

[0043] The invention will be further detailed by the description of non-limiting embodiments, and on the basis of the appended figures illustrating variants of the invention, in which: - [Fig.l] schematically illustrates, in front view, a building equipped with a cladding according to the invention, comprising a panel adjustable in position in two directions Y and Z, in particular but not limited to horizontal and vertical; said cladding comprising a first part, itself comprising a lower rail and a parallel upper rail, sections of which can be seen on either side of the panel; the cladding comprising a second part, removable, and supporting the panel and here hidden by the panel, and of which only adjustment means protruding very slightly in the upper part can be seen; - [Fig.2] to [Fig.22] illustrate a first variant of implementation of the invention, and [Fig.23] to [Fig.28] illustrate a second variant based on the same general architecture, and differing from the first variant by a different embodiment of immobilization means; - [Fig.2] illustrates schematically and in perspective view facing the building, the cladding of [Fig.l], without the panel, like all the figures which follow; the second part comprises a panel rail, substantially parallel to the plane formed by the lower rail and the upper rail; this panel rail comprises a lower hook assembly inserted in the lower rail, and an upper hook assembly inserted in the upper rail; - [Fig.3] is the reverse shot of [Fig.2], in perspective view with the back to the building, we can see the components of the upper hook assembly: an external mobile hook controlled by a vertical threaded rod controlled by a nut forming the adjustment means, and gripping a closing hook by means of two locking guides comprising slots defining the kinematics of the closing hook; - [Fig.4] schematically illustrates, in a frontal view towards the building, the dressing mechanism, and the fixing means for the panel to the back of the panel rail; - [Fig.5] schematically illustrates the cladding mechanism in frontal view from the building; - [Fig.6] schematically illustrates the covering mechanism in side view, in the service position of the panel, where the lower hook assembly does not bear, at its lower part, on the bottom of the lower rail, and where the upper hook assembly is hooked onto the upper rail, with the movable hook in upper support, and the closing hook in closed position and in support lower on a retracted edge of the upper rail; the edges of the closing hook are parallel to those of the locking guides, of which we see an upper oblong light, with in its lower part a pin housed in the closing hook; [Fig.7] schematically illustrates the covering mechanism in sectional view passing through the axis of the threaded control rod according to plane AA of [Fig.5], in the service position of [Fig.6]; we can see a spring housed between the movable hook and the closing hook; [Fig.8] schematically illustrates the dressing mechanism in sectional view along plane BB of [Fig.5], in the service position of [Fig.6]; we see the locking guide with, under the upper oblong light, a lower oblong light oblique to the previous one, in which is movable, here in the low position, a guide pin housed in a bore of the closing hook; [Fig.9] schematically illustrates the dressing mechanism in top view according to arrow E of [Fig.6], in the service position of [Fig.6]; [Fig. 10] schematically illustrates the covering mechanism in sectional view from above according to plane CC of [Fig.6], in the service position of [Fig.6]; we see the guidance of the movable hook in a profile constituting the panel rail; [Fig. 11] schematically illustrates the covering mechanism in sectional view from above along plane DD of [Fig.6], in the service position of [Fig.6]; the lower hook assembly can be seen in position in the trough of the lower rail; [Fig. 12] to [Fig. 14] schematically illustrate the kinematics of positioning and tightening the second part of the covering on the first part; each of these figures relates to a single position, and groups together, from right to left, a side view, a sectional view along plane AA passing through the threaded rod, and a sectional view along plane BB in a similar manner to [Fig.8]; [Fig. 12] illustrates the approach, with the introduction of the lower part of the lower support assembly, resting in the bottom of the trough of the lower rail; the panel rail is in an oblique position relative to the plane formed by the rails; the upper hook assembly is released in the upper part of the panel rail, the closing hook is in the open position, and held open by its spring, the pin and the guide pin are in the upper part of their respective oblong slots; [Fig. 13] illustrates the positioning of the panel rail parallel to the plane formed by the rails; the movable hook is lowered to bear on the top of the upper rail, the closing hook is still in the open position, and held open by its spring; [Fig. 14] illustrates, after an overtravel of the threaded rod, which has the effect of raising the lower part of the lower support assembly, the closing of the closing hook which is folded back onto the inward-facing edge of the upper rail, the pin and the guide pin are in the lower part of their respective oblong slots; [Fig. 15] illustrates schematically and in perspective the movable hook, with its guide surface in the panel rail, its double yoke with two aligned bores for housing the guide pin, and, in a particular execution, a support notch on the upper rail; [Fig. 16] illustrates schematically and in perspective the closing hook, with its lower bore for housing the guide pin, its upper bore for housing the pin, and a front support notch on the inward-facing edge of the upper rail; the front housing is the housing of the spring; [Fig. 17] illustrates schematically and in perspective a locking guide, with a first lower oblong groove, in which the guide pin is movable, and a second upper oblong groove oblique with respect to the first lower oblong groove, and which receives the pin; [Fig. 18] illustrates schematically and in perspective a nut support housed in the upper part of the panel rail; [Fig. 19] illustrates schematically and in perspective a panel rail obtained from a profile, and comprising internal guide surfaces for the movable parts of the cladding; [Fig.20] illustrates schematically and in perspective a rail obtained from a profile, forming a chute, suitable for use as a lower rail or as an upper rail, and comprising a re-entrant edge; [Fig.21] illustrates schematically and in perspective the lower support assembly, which comprises a lower support with a substantially cylindrical lower part, a fixing plate for its fixing to the panel rail, and, on the side opposite the panel rail, a stop arranged to cooperate in support with the lower rail; [Fig.22] schematically illustrates the second variant, similarly to [Fig.2], we can see the U-shaped closing hook around the movable hook, and, in the upper part of the panel rail, a movable latch for immobilizing the adjustment nut; [Fig.23] schematically illustrates the second variant, similarly to [Fig.3] ; - [Fig.24] schematically illustrates the second variant, similarly to [Fig.9] ; - [Fig.25] schematically illustrates the second variant, similarly to [Fig.12] ; - [Fig.26] schematically illustrates the second variant, similarly to [Fig.13] ; - [Fig.27] schematically illustrates the second variant, similarly to [Fig.14] ; - [Fig.28] schematically illustrates the second variant, in an in position intermediate assembly, installation or removal, in which the lower hook assembly is inserted into the lower rail, and the upper hook assembly is held spaced above the upper rail; - [Fig.29] is a flowchart showing the successive steps of the process installation on a building of a covering according to the invention.

[0044] The present invention represents an improvement of prior designs for cladding a building facade with panels, in particular so-called "BIPV" panels, for "Building Integrated PhotoVoltaics". In each of these designs, the mounting system is equipped with panel rails which are fixed, in particular glued, to the panel; on each panel rail there are two hook assemblies, one lower, the other upper, which can be adapted to the position of the rails, which are fixed to the structure of the building; and the mounting system is equipped with a fixing system accessible from one side of the panel; this fixing makes it possible to fix the panel to the rail and to avoid movement of the panel after installation.

[0045] In a first design, the mounting system includes screws accessible from above; these screws allow the horizontal leveling of the panel so that it is perfectly horizontal and aligned with the other panels of the facade.

[0046] In a second design, the mounting system includes long screws accessible from above; these screws also allow the horizontal leveling of the panel so that it is perfectly horizontal and aligned with the other panels of the facade, and these screws also allow the position of the upper hooks to be adjusted according to the position of the rails.

[0047] The invention includes a new locking system. This model is a four-hook system (the upper hooks can move up and down by rotating very long screws or threaded rods), which is more suitable for a vertical mounting system. Fixation is ensured by locking one of the upper hooks with a plate raised and screwed from the lateral side. A spring is attached to the hook upper hook to keep it open by default. An open hook is the state of the hook when it is not in the locked, or closed, position on a rail. By turning the screw, the upper hook can be moved vertically and locked in place. The system also allows panels to be moved horizontally on the rails.

[0048] Thus, more particularly, and as visible in the figures, the invention relates to a cladding 1000 of a building 2000. This cladding 1000 comprises at least one structure 100 for fixing at least one panel 500 adjustable in position on the structure 100.

[0049] The figures refer to a reference trihedron XYZ, with a first direction Z called vertical, a second direction Y called longitudinal, perpendicular to the first direction Z, and a third direction X called transverse, perpendicular to the first direction Z and to the second direction Y. If the invention is illustrated in the particular and non-limiting case where the first direction Z corresponds to that of the gravity field of the mounting location, it can also be used for mounting panels 500 with a slight inclination. According to the invention, the panel 500 is adjustable vertically along the first vertical direction Z, and longitudinally along the second longitudinal direction Y.

[0050] As visible in [Fig.l], the structure 100 comprises a first supporting part 200, which is arranged to be fixed in support on the building 2000, and a second part 300 which is arranged to be fixed in a removable manner on the first part 200.

[0051] The first part 200 comprises at least two mounting rails, which are mounted parallel and spaced apart from each other, according to a predefined spacing: a lower rail IA is arranged to be mounted closer to the ground than an upper rail IB. Each rail, lower IA or upper IB, in particular detailed in [Fig.20] in an advantageous embodiment as profile 1, comprises at least one part with an open hollow profile forming a chute comprising an opening arranged to be turned towards the side opposite the ground, the open hollow profile being arranged to receive in support a lower hook assembly 2 of the second part 300.

[0052] The lower rail IA and the upper rail IB are fixed to the building 2000 by traditional fixing means, known to those skilled in the art; advantageously, these fixing means do not protrude inside the chute, for example by using countersunk screws cooperating with chamfered holes in the rail, or protrude little, with flat-head screws 101, or similar, as visible in the figures. More particularly and advantageously, the lower rail IA and the upper rail IB are identical, which simplifies management.

[0053] By convention, the longitudinal direction Y is here called the direction in which the rails IA and IB extend.

[0054] The second part 300 comprises at least one panel rail 3, which is arranged to carry at least one panel 500, directly or through fixing means. The number of panel rails 3 depends on the mass and dimensions of the panel 500 to be supported. The example of [Fig.l] comprises two panel rails 3 mounted parallel, in the vertical direction Z.

[0055] According to the invention, the panel rail 3 is movable in a longitudinal direction Y along the lower rail 1A, and comprises the lower hook assembly 2 arranged to cooperate with the chute of the lower rail 1A. The panel rail 3 further comprises an upper hook assembly 30 comprising a closing hook 9 arranged to cooperate with the upper rail 1B, and in particular arranged to cooperate by clipping with the upper rail 1B, the upper hook assembly 30 and the panel rail 3 comprising guide means and adjustment means, accessible to the user, allowing the upper hook assembly to be movable in translation relative to the panel rail 3. In an insertion position, the lower hook assembly 2 and the upper hook assembly 30 are further apart than the lower rail 1A and the upper rail 1B.The lower hook assembly 2 is insertable into the chute of the lower rail IA, and the panel rail 3 is free angularly and in translation relative to the building 2000, towards a position of maintaining the panel rail 3 in vertical support relative to the gravity field of the location of the building 2000.

[0056] The upper hook assembly 30 is movable in translation relative to the panel rail 3, and therefore relative to the lower hook assembly 2, thanks to the adjustment means of the second part 300. These adjustment means are accessible to the user, here in the upper part of the panel rail 3, preferably flush with the upper end of the panel 500. These adjustment means comprise a translation means operable by a user, and cooperating with a movable hook solution to move it in translation.

[0057] The upper hook assembly 30 is movable from an insertion position to a position for maintaining the panel rail 3 in vertical support relative to the gravity field. In this insertion position, the distance between the lower hook assembly 2 and the upper hook assembly 30 is greater than the gap between the lower rail 1A and upper rail 1B, and the lower hook assembly 2 is insertable into the chute of the lower rail 1A; in this insertion position, the panel rail 3 is free angularly and in translation relative to the building 2000.

[0058] More particularly, the upper hook assembly 30 is arranged to, in the vertical support position of the panel rail 3, grip the upper rail 1B by clamping means carried by the upper hook assembly 30.

[0059] These clamping means comprise a cooperation of elements for gripping the upper rail 1B. More particularly, the upper hook assembly 30 comprises a movable hook 8, detailed in [Fig. 15], which is movable in translation along the rail of panel 3 under the action of the adjustment means for its support on the upper rail IB, and for the vertical adjustment of the panel rail 3 relative to the building 2000 for its placement in a predefined position or in a position of alignment with other elements of the building 2000.

[0060] More particularly still, the adjustment means comprise a threaded shaft 5, controlled by a nut 6 operable by the user and stopped axially by a nut support 4 detailed in [Fig. 18], and cooperating with a thread 85 of the movable hook 8, as visible in [Fig. 15], to move it in translation.

[0061] More particularly, the upper hook assembly 30 comprises immobilizing means, which are arranged to press the upper rail 1B and the panel rail 3 against each other.

[0062] More particularly still, these immobilization means comprise a closing hook 9, detailed in [Fig. 16], which is arranged to, in a locked holding position of the panel rail 3, immobilize the panel rail 3 on the upper rail 1B in all directions, and to, in an unlocked holding position, allow a translational movement of the upper hook assembly 30 in the direction of the upper rail 1B, that is to say the longitudinal direction Y in which this upper rail 1B extends, to allow a lateral adjustment of the position of the panel 500.

[0063] Advantageously, in a first variant illustrated in figures [Fig.2] to [Fig.22], the immobilization means comprise a closing hook 9 comprising a first bore 91 in which is guided a guide pin 17, also guided in two aligned bores 82 of the movable hook 8. This closing hook 9 is movable in rotation and / or in translation relative to the movable hook 8, in an opening / closing kinematics which is controlled by locking guides 14, detailed in [Fig. 17], which are interposed between the movable hook 8 forming an external double yoke and the closing hook 9 arranged between these locking guides 14. The closing hook 9 closes and locks by the simultaneous action of the threaded rod 5 and the locking guides 14 when the latter come into contact with the upper surface of the upper rail 1B, aided by the weight of the panel rail 3 and the panel 500.

[0064] More particularly and non-limitingly, these locking guides 14 comprise a first lower oblong groove 141, in which the guide pin 17 is movable and a second upper oblong groove 142 oblique with respect to the first lower oblong groove 141, and which receives a pin 15 guided in a second bore 92 of the closing hook 9.

[0065] The movable hook 8 thus comprises a U-shaped profile yoke, in which the closing hook 9 is positioned, separated from the movable hook 8 by a worm guide. rusting 14 on each side. The two branches 81 of the yoke have aligned bores 82, receiving the guide pin 17, which constitutes the axis of the closing hook 9, and around which this closing hook 9 can pivot. The movable hook 8 has a guide surface 83 in the panel rail 3, and, in a particular embodiment, a notch 84 for support on the upper rail 1B.

[0066] The assembly of the movable hook 8, the locking guides 14, and the closing hook 9, is carried out with minimal functional clearance, to prevent any Y-shaped movement of the closing hook 9 relative to the movable hook 8. The two locking guides 14 are identical. Preferably, the guide pin 17 and the pin 15 are both mounted in tight fit, either with the movable hook 8, or with the closing hook 9. It is understood that the combination of the directions of the oblong grooves defines a movement of the closing hook 9 combining a translation and a rotation. This first variant is very robust, and particularly well suited to the support of heavy panels.

[0067] In a second variant illustrated in figures [Fig.23] to [Fig.28], these immobilization means comprise a closing hook 9 comprising a first bore 91, in which the guide pin 17 is guided. The closing hook 9 is movable in rotation and / or in translation relative to the movable hook 8, in an opening / closing kinematics which is controlled by locking guides 145, which each comprise a single oblong slot 143 in which the guide pin 17 is movable, on which the closing hook 9 is pivotally mounted, which forms an external double yoke, with a substantially U-shaped profile, surrounding the movable hook 8, as visible in [Fig.23].

[0068] In the first variant, the user begins by moving the upper hook assembly 30 and the lower hook assembly 2 as far apart as possible, prepositions the lower hook assembly 2 in the chute of the lower rail 1A, then tilts the panel rail 3 towards the upper rail 1B. In this starting position, the guide pin 17 and the pin 15 are in the upper part of the corresponding oblong grooves, that is to say opposite the lower hook assembly 2. Then the user controls, by rotating the threaded rod 5 using the nut 6, in particular provided with a hexagonal head or the like receiving a very thin flat spanner, the maneuver of bringing together the upper hook assembly 30 and the lower hook assembly 2, until the upper hook assembly 30 rests on the upper rail 1B.During this approach maneuver, the guide pin 17 and the pin 15 go to the lower part of the corresponding oblong grooves, that is to say on the side of the lower hook assembly 2, which controls the spacing of the closing hook 9 relative to the plane of the panel rail 3. It is then possible to move the panel rail 3, still in lower support in the lower rail IA, according to the . longitudinal direction Y, to adjust its position. Continuing to operate the threaded rod 5, always in the same direction, has the joint effect of folding the closing hook 9 onto the upper rail 1B, and of moving the lower hook assembly 2 away from the bottom of the lower rail 1A, by raising the lower hook assembly 2 in the vertical direction Z, which makes it possible to adjust the position of the panel rail 3 relative to the lower rail 1A and the upper rail 1B, in the vertical direction Z.

[0069] More particularly, the upper hook assembly 30 comprises, in the first as in the second variant, at least one spring 10, which is fixed to the closing hook 9, in particular at the level of a recess, and which tends to keep it open by default: this spring 10 works in repulsion (except when it is installed on the rail, the closing hook 9 is open). The closing hook 9 closes and locks by the simultaneous action of the threaded rod 5 and the oblong locking guides 14 when they come into contact with the upper face of the upper rail 1B (aided by the weight of the panel rail, or of the panel rail 3 and of the panel 500 when the latter is previously mounted on the panel rail 3. The upper hook assembly 30 is then clipped onto the upper rail 1B.

[0070] The system is released by maneuvering the threaded rod 5, until the lower hook assembly 2 touches the lower rail 1A, the weight of the assembly is then no longer supported by the upper part but by the lower rail 1A. If the maneuver is continued, the closing hook 9 is released from the upper rail 1B, pushed by the spring 10 and the locking guides 14. Then the movable hook 8 and the closing hook 9 can be released above the upper rail 1B, which then allows the panel to be tilted to remove it safely.

[0071] More particularly, between the insertion position and the vertical support position, the panel rail 3 is angularly and translationally movable, to allow the insertion or extraction of the upper hook assembly 30 into or from the chute of the upper rail 1B, in order to allow the installation or removal of a panel 500.

[0072] More particularly, at least the upper rail 1B comprises internally, at its upper part furthest from its support on the building 2000, a retracting edge 19, which is directed towards the building 2000. And the closing hook 9 and the movable hook 8 are arranged to, in the locked holding position of the panel rail 3, immobilize the retracting edge 19 of the upper rail 1B, and, in an intermediate mounting position, allow the release of the retracting edge 19 to allow the insertion or extraction of the upper hook assembly 30 into or from the chute of the upper rail 1B, in order to allow the installation or removal of a panel 500. For this purpose, the closing hook 9 advantageously comprises a notch 93 provided to immobilize this retracting edge 19.

[0073] More particularly, the lower hook assembly 2, detailed in [Fig.21], comprises a lower support 21, which comprises a substantially cylindrical lower part 25, which is substantially complementary to the internal profile of the chute of the lower rail 1A, to allow low-friction angular movement of the panel rail 3 relative to the rail 1 during assembly or disassembly operations, and comprises a fixing plate.

[0074] More particularly and non-limitingly, the lower hook assembly 2 comprises, for its attachment to the panel rail 3, and further comprises, on the side opposite the panel rail 3, a stop 29 which is arranged to cooperate in bearing with the lower rail 1A, in the mounted and assembled position of the second part 300 on the first part 200, in which the substantially cylindrical lower part 25 bears on a side wall of the lower rail 1A, as visible in [Fig. 8]. This arrangement makes it possible, with adequate dimensioning of the lower support 21 relative to the calibrated rail 1, to have a lower support without play in this mounted and assembled position, while the upper hook assembly 30 is also firmly clamped on the upper rail 1B, which makes it possible to avoid vibrations and preserves the structure 100 and the panel 500 which it carries.

[0075] More particularly, the panel rail 3 comprises, at its end closest to the ground, a panel support 7 which is arranged to support the weight of the panel 500. This support 7 is in particular fixed by rivets 16 to the panel rail 3. More particularly, the lower support assembly 2 comprises, on the side opposite the panel rail 3, a stop 29 arranged to cooperate in support with the lower rail 1A, in the mounted and assembled position of the second part 300 on the first part 200. A good fixing is thus ensured, capable of supporting the mass of the panel 500, and the stop constitutes an anti-tilt safety device.

[0076] More particularly, and not limitingly, the means for fixing the panel 500 on the panel rail 3 comprise at least one interface joint 11 or at least one adhesive film 12. The panel 500 can also be fixed by conventional mechanical means, screws, slides, profiles or the like, or even by a combination of adhesive means and mechanical means.

[0077] Advantageously, the guidance of the nut 6 in the upper part of the panel rail 3 is secured to ensure that only rotation around the vertical axis Z is possible.

[0078] In an advantageous embodiment, the panel rail 3, detailed in [Fig. 19], is a hollow profile, and the nut support 4 has a shape complementary to the internal profile of this profile, in which it is threaded, it is therefore blocked in the longitudinal Y and transverse X directions by the shape of the panel rail 3. The nut support 4 is blocked in a single position along the vertical axis Z, in particular by front screws 18, once pre-assembly of the system carried out.

[0079] In another particular variant, to secure the position adjustment carried out, the upper end of the panel rail 3 comprises a bolt 39, movable in the longitudinal direction Y, to immobilize the locking system, and in particular to prevent rotation of the nut 6 once the panel rail 3 and the panel 500 are adjusted in position.

[0080] More particularly, the panel 500 is a photovoltaic panel, or a reflective glazing panel, or a panel comprising light diffusion or display means, or an insulation panel, or a forced air circulation panel.

[0081] The invention also relates to a building 2000 comprising at least one such cladding 1000.

[0082] The invention also relates to a method of installing such a cladding 1000 on a building 2000.

[0083] According to the invention, the method comprises the following steps: - a step E1 of obtaining the covering 1000, a lower rail IA and an upper rail IB; the geometry of the structure 100, the spacing between the lower rail IA and the upper rail IB, and the number and position of the panel rails 3 relative to the panel 500 have been determined beforehand; - a step E2 of fixing on the building 2000 the lower rail 1A and the upper rail 1B, parallel to each other in the second direction Y, which can in a usual but non-limiting variant coincide with the horizontal of the location of the building 2000, the lower rail IA mounted closest to the ground of the location of the building 2000, with the openings facing the side opposite the ground; - a step E4 of separating the upper hook assembly 30 and the lower hook assembly 2 by action on the adjustment means; - a step E5 of introducing each lower hook assembly 2 into the chute of the lower rail IA for temporary support in the vertical direction Z, and of adjusting the longitudinal position of each panel rail 3 in the longitudinal direction Y; - a step E6 of adjusting the position of the upper hook assembly 30 of each panel rail 3, so that its closing hook 9 fits into the channel of the upper rail 1B; - a step E7 of fixing the upper hook assembly 30 of each panel rail 3 by clipping onto the upper rail IB; - an adjustment step E8 of the position of the panel rail 3 in the vertical direction Z.

[0084] The panel 500 is finally fixed on the panel rail 3, directly or through fixing means, during the fixing step E3 or during, or after, the step E8 adjustment.

[0085] More particularly, for each panel 500, depending on its size and mass, either a first alternative is selected, in which the panel 500 is handled, provided with each panel rail 3, which is fixed together beforehand, or a second alternative in which each panel rail 3 is positioned relative to the lower rail 1A and the upper rail 1B before fixing the panel 500 to each panel rail 3.

[0086] In the first or second alternative, for each panel rail 3 its lower hook assembly 2 is inserted into the channel of the lower rail 1A, the panel rail 3 is angularly folded towards the upper rail 1B bearing on the lower rail 1A, the adjustment means are operated to bring the upper hook assembly 30 into bearing on the upper rail 1B, and to grip the upper rail 1B by clamping means carried by the upper hook assembly.

[0087] Then, in the first alternative, the clamping means are released to allow longitudinal adjustment in the longitudinal direction Y of the position of the panel 500 relative to the lower rail IA and the upper rail 1B and in the direction of the lower rail IA and the upper rail 1B, before locking the clamping means and carrying out a vertical adjustment of the position of the panel 500 away from the lower rail IA and the upper rail 1B by continuing the action on the adjustment means and losing the lower support of the lower hook assembly 2 in the chute of the lower rail IA.

[0088] Alternatively, in the second alternative, the panel 500 is fixed to each panel rail 3 and then the clamping means are released to allow longitudinal adjustment in the longitudinal direction Y of the position of the panel 500 relative to the lower rail IA and the upper rail 1B and in the direction of the lower rail IA and the upper rail 1B, before locking the clamping means and carrying out a vertical adjustment of the position of the panel 500 away from the lower rail IA and the upper rail 1B by continuing the action on the adjustment means and losing the lower support of the lower hook assembly 2 in the chute of the lower rail IA.

[0089] In summary, the building cladding according to the invention is a new mounting system for facades, in particular for cladding with BIPV photovoltaic panels, and is much easier to install than the systems available on the market. In addition, it is equipped with a one-point fixing system and an easy-to-access leveling system compared to other systems available on the market (in some cases, fixing and leveling are absent from the systems available on the market).

[0090] In addition, the position of the fasteners can be adapted to the location of the fastener on the facade.

[0091] The implementation method guarantees the safety of the installation personnel, thanks to the prior support on the lower rail, and also guarantees the integrity of the panels which can be handled without risk. The possibility of easy flat adjustment in two dimensions, in particular vertical and horizontal, allows a perfect adjustment of a panel among other panels or according to particular architectural elements of the building.

[0092] Access to the adjustment means only requires a space of a few millimeters, sufficient for the insertion and manipulation of a tool such as a flat spanner, which provides protection against the insertion of foreign bodies, in particular insects, under the panel.

[0093] The invention can also be used for panels mounted slightly obliquely relative to the gravity field, either with rails slightly obliquely relative to the horizontal, or with a panel plane slightly obliquely relative to the vertical of the location with, for example, a sloping facade.

[0094] The invention also allows easy and secure mounting of panels of a shape other than rectangular and allows good adaptation to the architectural design of the building.

Claims

Claims

1. Cladding (1000) for a building (2000), said building being arranged on a ground, said cladding (1000) comprising a structure (100) for fixing a panel (500) adjustable in position relative to the structure (100), the structure (100) comprising a first part (200) intended to be fixed in support on the building (2000) comprising a lower rail (IA) and an upper rail (IB) intended to be mounted parallel, the lower rail (IA) being arranged to be mounted closer to the ground than the upper rail (IB), the lower rail (IA) and the upper rail (IB) each comprising at least one part with an open hollow profile forming a chute comprising an opening arranged to be turned towards the side opposite the ground, the structure (100) further comprising a second part (300) intended to be fixed removably on the first part (200) comprising a panel rail (3) intended to carry said panel (500),directly or through fixing means, the panel rail (3) comprising a lower hook assembly (2), the open hollow profile of the lower rail (IB) being intended to receive the lower hook assembly (2) in support, the panel rail (3) is capable of being movable in a longitudinal direction (Y) in which the lower rail (IA) extends, the cladding (1000) having a vertical direction (Z) perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (Y) and a transverse direction (X) perpendicular to the vertical direction (Z) and to the longitudinal direction (Y), the panel rail (3) further comprising an upper hook assembly (30) comprising a closing hook (9) arranged to cooperate by clipping with the upper rail (IB), the upper hook assembly (30) and the panel rail (3) comprising translational guiding means and adjustment means,the upper hook assembly (30) being able to be movable in translation relative to the panel rail (3).,

2. Covering (1000) according to claim 1 characterized in that the upper hook assembly (30) comprises clamping means comprising said closing hook (9) intended to grip the upper rail (IB) in a position for maintaining the panel rail (3) in vertical support.

3. Covering (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 2 characterized in that the upper hook assembly (30) comprises a movable hook (8) capable of being movable in translation along the rail of panel (3) under the action of the adjustment means for support on the upper rail (IB) and for vertical adjustment of the panel rail (3) relative to the building (2000).

4. Covering (1000) according to claim 3 characterized in that the adjustment means comprise a threaded shaft (5) controllable by a nut (6) axially stoppable by a nut support (4), the threaded shaft (5) being able to cooperate with a tapping (85) of the movable hook (8) to move it in translation.

5. Covering (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 4 characterized in that the upper hook assembly (30) comprises immobilization means arranged to press the upper rail (IB) and the panel rail (3) against each other.

6. Covering (1000) according to claim 5 characterized in that the immobilization means comprise the closing hook (9) arranged to, in a locked holding position of the panel rail (3), immobilize the panel rail (3) on the upper rail (IB), and to, in an unlocked holding position, allow a translational movement of the upper hook assembly (30) in the direction of the upper rail (IB), to allow a lateral adjustment of the position of the panel (500).

7. Cover (1000) according to any one of claims 3 to 6, characterized in that the closing hook (9) comprises a guide pin (17) and a first bore (91) capable of guiding the guide pin (17), said closing hook (9) being capable of being movable in rotation and / or in translation relative to the movable hook (8), said upper hook assembly (30) comprising locking guides (14, 145) interposed between the movable hook (8) and the closing hook (9), each locking guide each comprising a first lower oblong groove (141) in which the guide pin (17) is capable of being movable and a second upper oblong groove (142) oblique relative to the first lower oblong groove (141) and which is capable of receiving a pin (15) guided in a second bore (92) of the closing hook (9).

8. Covering (1000) according to any one of claims 3 to 6 characterized in that the closing hook (9) comprises a guide pin (17) and a first bore (91) capable of guiding the guide pin (17), said closing hook (9) being capable of being movable in rotation and / or in translation relative to the movable hook (8), said assembly upper hook (30) comprising locking guides (14, 145) interposed between the movable hook (8) and the closing hook (9), each locking guide each comprising a single oblong slot (143) in which the guide pin (17) on which the closing hook (9) is pivotally mounted is capable of being movable, forming an external double yoke surrounding the movable hook (8).

9. Covering (1000) according to claim 7 characterized in that the upper hook assembly (30) comprises at least one spring (10) capable of working in repulsion fixed to the closing hook (9) and capable of keeping the upper hook assembly (30) open.

10. Covering (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 9 characterized in that the panel rail (3) is capable of being movable angularly and in translation to allow the insertion or extraction of the upper hook assembly (30) into or from the chute of the upper rail (IB) in order to allow the installation or removal of said panel (500).

11. Covering (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 10 characterized in that the lower hook assembly (2) comprises a lower support (21) comprising a substantially cylindrical lower part substantially complementary to the open hollow profile of the lower rail (IA) to allow angular movement of the panel rail (3) relative to the lower rail (IA) during assembly or disassembly, the lower hook assembly (2) further comprising a fixing plate (22) intended for fixing the lower hook assembly (2) to the panel rail (3), and, on the side opposite the panel rail (3), a stop (29) arranged to cooperate in support with the lower rail (IA), in a mounted and assembled position of the second part (300) on the first part (200).

12. Covering (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 11 characterized in that the panel rail (3) comprises, at its end closest to the ground, a panel support (7) arranged to support the weight of said panel (500).

13. Building (2000) comprising a cladding (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 12 and a panel (500), said panel (500) being a photovoltaic panel, or a reflective glazing panel, or a panel comprising light diffusion or display means, or an insulation panel, or a forced air circulation panel.

14. Method for installing a cladding (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 12 on a building (2000) defining a plane, said building being arranged on a ground defining a vertical direction (Z) according to the Earth's gravity field, a longitudinal direction (Y) perpendicular to the vertical direction (Z), the vertical direction (Z) and the longitudinal direction (Y) forming a plane parallel to said plane of the building (2000), and a transverse direction (X) perpendicular to the vertical direction (Z) and to the longitudinal direction (Y) characterized in that the method comprises the following steps: - a step of obtaining (El) a covering (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 12; - a step (E2) of fixing on the building (2000) the lower rail (IA) and the upper rail (IB) mounted parallel to each other in the longitudinal direction (Y), the lower rail (IA) being mounted closest to the ground, with the chute openings facing the side opposite the ground; - a step (E3) of fixing on each panel rail (3) the lower hook assembly (2) and the upper hook assembly (30) through the translational guide means and the adjustment means; - a step of separating (E) the upper hook assembly (30) and the lower hook assembly (2) by action on the adjustment means; - a step of introducing (E5) each lower hook assembly (2) into the chute of the lower rail (IA) for temporary support in the vertical direction (Z); - a step (E6) of adjusting the position of the upper hook assembly (30) of each panel rail (3), so that its closing hook (9) fits into the channel of the upper rail (IB); - a step of fixing (E7) the upper hook assembly (30) of each panel rail (3) by clipping onto the upper rail (IB); - a step of adjusting (E8) the position of the panel rail (3) in the vertical direction (Z).

15. Method according to claim 14 characterized in that the method comprises a step of adjusting the longitudinal position of each panel rail (3) in the longitudinal direction (Y) after the introduction step (E5).

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