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 OF 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 load-bearing part, arranged to be permanently fixed to the building, and a second part arranged to be removably fixed to the first part and to support at least one panel, the first part comprising at least two mounting rails, a lower one arranged to be mounted closer to the ground than the upper one and parallel to it, each mounting rail comprising at least one part with an open hollow profile forming a channel, the opening of which is arranged to be turned towards the side opposite the ground, the open hollow profile being arranged to receive 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 with technical functions, such as insulation, energy storage, air circulation, lighting, display, or aesthetic functions.

[0005] Prior art document EP3182580A1 is known, which describes a photovoltaic module for ventilated facade, comprising a photovoltaic panel consisting of a front pane, a rear pane, laminated films adhering to the panes, and a set of photovoltaic cells arranged between the panes and films, these cells being arranged in parallel rows and separated by conductive tracks; the rear pane of the photovoltaic panel is permanently connected to vertically oriented aluminum carrier profile wings, the webs of which are fitted with profiled hooks at their ends, and the edge of a membrane resting on the horizontal edge of a metal angle with equal branches is adjacent to the lower side of the rear pane.

[0006] Document EP3594427Al describes a system for fixing facade elements, including windows or photovoltaic modules, on a facade with mounting profiles arranged on a building wall, and connecting means which are linked on the one hand to the rear face of the facade elements (and on the other hand can be connected to the mounting profiles). The fixing system comprises mounting profiles of a first type and mounting profiles of a second type for a predominantly horizontal arrangement on a building wall substructure. Other components of the fixing system are a fixing profile intended to be positioned on the rear of the facade elements, an anchor intended to be removably positioned on the fixing profile, and a sliding support on the second type of profile that is guided longitudinally in the direction of the profile. The mounting profiles, the anchor, and the sliding support are designed to have a first connection by form fitting between the anchor and the first type of mounting profile and a second connection by interlocking between the anchor and the sliding part.

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

[0008] 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 so 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 that fills a gap between a support frame and a building envelope panel. The spacer is made of a material with a thermal conductivity of 20 Watts per meter Kelvin to increase resistance to heat transfer between the end pieces. Fastening passages are provided in the spacer and the end pieces, and a fastener, i.e., a rivet fastener, is formed between the end pieces and the spacer by the fastening passages. The spacer is made of a non-metallic material such as wood, a ceramic or polymer material, or metal.

[0010] However, facade cladding from earlier art remains difficult to install, the Geometric adjustments between panels are delicate and in some cases require significant gaps between panels. Furthermore, removing these panels is sometimes dangerous.

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

[0012] To achieve this objective, the invention proposes a cladding for a building, said building being placed 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 channel having an opening arranged to be turned towards the side opposite the ground, the structure further comprising a second part intended to be removably fixed to the first part comprising a panel rail intended to support 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 support the lower hook assembly, the panel rail being capable of being movable along a longitudinal direction along which the lower rail extends, the cladding having a vertical direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and a transverse direction perpendicular to both the vertical and longitudinal directions, the panel rail further comprising an upper hook assembly including a closing hook arranged to cooperate by clipping with the upper rail, the upper hook assembly and the panel rail comprising means for translational guidance and adjustment, 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 groove of the lower rail taking up part of its weight, then to tilt the panel and secure it on the upper rail with the upper hook assembly, in a connection allowing adjustments before locking in position.

[0014] Advantageously, the upper hook assembly includes clamping means comprising said closing hook intended to clamp the upper rail in a position of holding the panel rail in vertical support.

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

[0016] Advantageously, the upper hook assembly comprises a movable hook suitable for to be mobile 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 along a first direction, in particular vertically.

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

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

[0020] Advantageously, the upper hook assembly includes 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, ensures that the panel remains stable even in the event of severe weather (strong winds, shearing winds, unusual climatic loads, and the like).

[0022] Advantageously, the immobilizing means include the locking 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 panel position.

[0023] Thus, the panel can be adjusted in a second direction, in particular horizontally. The locking hook is a proven, simple, and inexpensive mechanical solution. The choice of a locking hook also allows for the secure attachment of a retracted flange of the upper rail in an advantageous configuration.

[0024] Advantageously, the closing hook comprises a guide pin and a first bore suitable for guiding the guide pin, said closing hook being suitable for being movable in rotation and / or 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 comprising each a first lower oblong groove in which the guide pin is suitable for being movable and a second upper oblong groove oblique relative to the first lower oblong groove and which is suitable for 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 suitable for guiding the guide pin, said closing hook being suitable for being movable in rotation and / or 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 unique oblong slot in which the guide pin on which the closing hook is pivotally mounted is suitable for being movable, forming an external double clevis surrounding the movable hook.

[0027] Advantageously, the upper hook assembly includes at least one spring capable of working in repulsion attached 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 adapted to be movable angularly and in translation to allow the insertion or extraction of the upper hook assembly into or from the upper rail channel in order to allow the installation or removal of said panel.

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

[0031] Advantageously, the lower hook assembly comprises a lower support having 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 for fixing the lower hook assembly to the panel rail, and, on the side opposite the panel rail, a stop arranged to cooperate in support 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-tipping safety feature.

[0033] Advantageously, the panel rail includes, 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 after installation onto the panel rails, which are already pre-positioned on the rails. It also provides safety during handling and reduces stress on the panel fixing means.

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

[0036] Thus, the use of mechanical fastening methods is avoided, which, in addition to their cost, may prove unsuitable for panels, particularly those with glazing, of thin 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 therefore versatile, and suitable for installing any type of panel.

[0039] The invention further 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 further 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 gravitational 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 on the building the lower rail and the upper rail mounted parallel to each other along 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 onto each panel rail using 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 inserting each lower hook assembly into the groove of the lower rail for temporary support in the vertical direction; a step of adjusting the position of the upper hook assembly on each panel rail so that its closing hook fits into the groove of the upper rail; a step of fixing the upper hook assembly of each panel rail by clipping it 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's layout and to optimize the fixing methods for each panel. It is possible to choose to install the panel directly, equipped with its panel rail(s), or, conversely, to first position these panel rails and then fix the panel to them. This greatly simplifies site organization.

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

[0043] The invention will be further detailed by describing non-limiting embodiments, and based on the accompanying figures illustrating variants of the invention, in which: - [Fig.1] schematically illustrates, in front view, a building equipped with cladding according to the invention, comprising a panel adjustable in position along 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 at the top can be seen; - [Fig.2] to [Fig.22] illustrate a first implementation variant 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 realization of immobilization means; - [Fig.2] schematically illustrates, in perspective, the view from the front of the building. the cladding of [Fig.1], without the panel, like all the figures that follow; the second part includes a panel rail, substantially parallel to the plane formed by the lower rail and the upper rail; this panel rail includes a lower hook assembly inserted into the lower rail, and an upper hook assembly inserted into the upper rail; - [Fig.3] is the reverse shot of [Fig.2], in perspective seen from the back of the building, we can distinguish the components of the upper hook assembly: an external movable hook controlled by a vertical threaded rod controlled by a nut forming the adjustment means, and clamping a closing hook by means of two locking guides having lights defining the kinematics of the closing hook; - [Fig.4] schematically illustrates, in frontal view towards the building, the cladding mechanism, and the means of fixing the panel to the back of the panel rail; - [Fig.5] schematically illustrates the cladding mechanism in front view from the building; - [Fig. 6] schematically illustrates the side view of the cladding mechanism in the panel's service position, 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 the upper support position, and the closing hook in the closed position and in support lower on a re-entrant edge of the upper rail; the edges of the closing hook are parallel to those of the locking guides, of which an oblong upper light can be seen, with in its lower part a pin housed in the closing hook; [Fig.7] schematically illustrates the dressing mechanism in cross-section through the axis of the threaded control rod along plane AA of [Fig.5], in the service position of [Fig.6]; a spring can be seen housed between the movable hook and the closing hook; [Fig.8] schematically illustrates the dressing mechanism in cross-section according to 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 lower 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 dressing mechanism in top cross-section according to plane CC of [Fig.6], in the service position of [Fig.6]; the guidance of the movable hook in a profile constituting the panel rail can be seen; [Fig. 11] schematically illustrates the cladding mechanism in top section view along plane DD of [Fig. 6], in the service position of [Fig. 6]; the lower hook assembly is shown in position in the groove of the lower rail; [Fig. 12] to [Fig. 14] schematically illustrate the kinematics of positioning and tightening the second part of the cladding onto the first part; each of these figures concerns a single position, and groups, from right to left, a side view, a section view along plane AA passing through the threaded rod, and a section view along plane BB in a similar way to [Fig. 8]; [Fig. 12] illustrates the approach, with the introduction of the lower part of the lower support assembly, supported in the bottom of the lower rail channel; 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 rest on the upper support 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 down on the re-entrant edge of the upper rail, the pin and the guide pin are in the lower part of their respective oblong slots; [Fig. 15] schematically illustrates in perspective the movable hook, with its guide surface in the panel rail, its double clevis with two aligned bores for housing the guide pin, and, in a particular embodiment, a support notch on the upper rail; [Fig. 16] schematically illustrates in perspective the closing hook, with its lower bore for the housing of the guide pin, its upper bore for the housing of the pin, and a front support notch on the re-entrant edge of the upper rail; the front housing is the housing of the spring; [Fig. 17] schematically illustrates 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 to the first lower oblong groove, which receives the pin; [Fig. 18] schematically illustrates in perspective a nut support housed in the upper part of the panel rail; [Fig. 19] schematically illustrates in perspective a panel rail obtained from a profile, and comprising internal guide surfaces for the moving parts of the cladding; [Fig.20] schematically illustrates in perspective a rail obtained from a profile, forming a channel, suitable for use as a lower rail or as an upper rail, and having a re-entrant edge; [Fig.21] schematically illustrates in perspective the lower support assembly, which includes a lower support with a substantially cylindrical lower part, a fixing plate for its attachment 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], the U-shaped closing hook is visible around the movable hook, and, in the upper part of the panel rail, a movable latch for immobilizing the adjusting nut; [Fig.23] schematically illustrates the second variant, in a similar way to [Fig.3]; - [Fig.24] schematically illustrates the second variant, in a similar way to [Fig.9]; - [Fig.25] schematically illustrates the second variant, in a similar way to [Fig.12]; - [Fig.26] schematically illustrates the second variant, in a similar way to [Fig.13]; - [Fig.27] schematically illustrates the second variant, in a similar way to [Fig.14]; - [Fig.28] schematically illustrates the second variant, in a position in intermediate assembly, installation or removal, in which the lower hook assembly is inserted into the lower rail, and the upper hook assembly is held apart above the upper rail; - [Fig. 29] is a flowchart showing the successive steps of the process installation on a building of a cladding according to the invention.

[0044] The present invention represents an improvement on 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 are two hook assemblies, one lower and one upper, which can be adapted to the position of the rails, which are fixed to the building structure; and the mounting system is equipped with a fastening system accessible from one side of the panel; this fastening makes it possible to fix the panel to the rail and to prevent the panel from moving after installation.

[0045] In a first design, the mounting system includes screws accessible from the top; 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 the top; these screws also allow 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 adjustment of the position of the upper hooks according to the position of the rails.

[0047] The invention includes a new locking system. This design is a four-hook system (the upper hooks can be raised and lowered by rotating very long screws or threaded rods), which is better suited to a vertical mounting system. The fastening is achieved by locking one of the upper hooks with a plate that is raised and screwed in from the side. A spring is attached to the hook. The upper hook is held open by default. An open hook is defined as the hook's state when it is not locked, or closed, 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 along the rails.

[0048] Thus, more particularly, and as can be seen 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 designated vertical, a second direction Y designated longitudinal, perpendicular to the first direction Z, and a third direction X designated transverse, perpendicular to both the first direction Z and the second direction Y. While the invention is illustrated in the specific, non-limiting case where the first direction Z corresponds to that of the gravitational field of the mounting location, it is also applicable to the mounting of 500 panels with a slight inclination. According to the invention, the 500 panel is adjustable vertically along the first vertical direction Z, and longitudinally along the second longitudinal direction Y.

[0050] As seen in [Fig.1], the structure 100 comprises a first load-bearing 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, 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, detailed in particular in [Fig. 20] in an advantageous embodiment as profile 1, comprises at least one part with an open hollow profile forming a channel having an opening arranged to be turned towards the side opposite the ground, the open hollow profile being arranged to receive as 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 fastening means known to those skilled in the art; advantageously, these fastening means do not protrude inside the channel, for example by using countersunk screws cooperating with chamfered holes in the rail, or protrude only slightly, with flat-head screws 101, or similar, as shown in the figures. More particularly and advantageously, the lower rail IA and the upper rail IB are identical, which simplifies handling.

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

[0054] The second part 300 comprises at least one panel rail 3, which is arranged to support at least one panel 500, either directly or via fastening means. The number of panel rails 3 depends on the mass and dimensions of the panel 500 to be supported. The example in [Fig. 1] has two panel rails 3 mounted parallel to each other, along the vertical direction Z.

[0055] According to the invention, the panel rail 3 is movable along a longitudinal direction Y along the lower rail IA, and includes the lower hook assembly 2 arranged to cooperate with the channel of the lower rail IA. The panel rail 3 further includes an upper hook assembly 30 comprising a locking hook 9 arranged to cooperate with the upper rail IB, and in particular arranged to cooperate by clipping with the upper rail IB. The upper hook assembly 30 and the panel rail 3 include user-accessible guide and adjustment means 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 IA and the upper rail IB.The lower hook assembly 2 is insertable into the channel 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 vertical support of the panel rail 3 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 include 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 holding position in vertical support of the panel rail 3 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 IA and upper rail IB, and the lower hook assembly 2 is insertable into the channel of the lower rail IA; 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, clamp the upper rail IB by means of clamping means carried by the upper hook assembly 30.

[0059] These clamping means comprise a cooperation of elements for clamping the upper rail IB. 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 3 rail 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, 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 seen in [Fig. 15], to move it in translation.

[0061] More particularly, the upper hook assembly 30 includes locking means, which are arranged to press the upper rail IB and the panel rail 3 against each other.

[0062] More particularly, these immobilizing means comprise a locking 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 IB in all directions, and to, in an unlocked holding position, allow a translational movement of the upper hook assembly 30 along the direction of the upper rail IB, i.e. the longitudinal direction Y along which this upper rail IB extends, to allow a lateral adjustment of the position of the panel 500.

[0063] Advantageously, in a first embodiment illustrated in Figures [Fig. 2] to [Fig. 22], the locking means comprise a locking hook 9 having a first bore 91 in which a guide pin 17 is guided, also guided in two aligned bores 82 of the movable hook 8. This locking hook 9 is movable in rotation and / or 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 clevis and the locking hook 9 disposed between these locking guides 14. The locking 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 IB, aided by the weight of the panel rail 3 and the panel 500.

[0064] More particularly and not 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 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 clevis, in which the closing hook 9 is positioned, separated from the movable hook 8 by a guide for rusting 14 on each side. The two arms 81 of the clevis have aligned bores 82, receiving the guide pin 17, which forms 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 bearing notch 84 on the upper rail IB.

[0066] The assembly of the movable hook 8, the locking guides 14, and the closing hook 9 is made with minimal functional clearance to prevent any Y-axis 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 with an interference 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 translation and rotation. This first variant is very robust and particularly well-suited for supporting heavy panels.

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

[0068] In the first variant, the user begins by spreading the upper hook assembly 30 and the lower hook assembly 2 as far apart as possible, pre-positions the lower hook assembly 2 in the groove of the lower rail IA, and then tilts the panel rail 3 towards the upper rail IB. In this starting position, the guide pin 17 and the pin 15 are in the upper part of the corresponding oblong grooves, i.e. opposite the lower hook assembly 2. Then the user controls, by rotating the threaded rod 5 with the help of the nut 6, in particular fitted with a hexagonal head or similar for receiving a very thin open-end wrench, the movement of bringing the upper hook assembly 30 and the lower hook assembly 2 together, until the upper hook assembly 30 rests on the upper rail IB.During this approach maneuver, the guide pin 17 and the pin 15 move into the lower part of the corresponding oblong grooves, i.e. 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 the operation of the threaded rod 5, always in the same direction, has the joint effect of folding down the closing hook 9 on the upper rail IB, and of moving the lower hook assembly 2 away from the bottom of the lower rail IA, by raising the lower hook assembly 2 in the vertical direction Z, which allows the position of the panel rail 3 to be adjusted relative to the lower rail IA and the upper rail IB, in the vertical direction Z.

[0069] More specifically, the upper hook assembly 30 comprises, in both the first and second variants, at least one spring 10, which is attached to the closing hook 9, particularly at the level of a recess, and which tends to keep it open by default: this spring 10 works in repulsion (except when 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 IB (aided by the weight of the panel rail, or of the panel rail 3 and the panel 500 when the latter is pre-mounted on the panel rail 3). The upper hook assembly 30 is then clipped onto the upper rail IB.

[0070] The system is released by manipulating the threaded rod 5 until the lower hook assembly 2 touches the lower rail IA. At this point, the weight of the assembly is no longer supported by the upper part but by the lower rail IA. If the maneuver is continued, the locking hook 9 is released from the upper rail IB, pushed by the spring 10 and the locking guides 14. The movable hook 8 and the locking hook 9 can then be released above the upper rail IB, allowing the panel to be tilted for safe removal.

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

[0072] More specifically, at least the upper rail IB has internally, at its upper part furthest from its support on the building 2000, a retractable lip 19, which is directed towards the building 2000. And the locking hook 9 and the movable hook 8 are arranged so as, in the locked holding position of the panel rail 3, to immobilize the retractable lip 19 of the upper rail IB, and, in an intermediate mounting position, to allow the retractable lip 19 to be released to permit the insertion or extraction of the upper hook assembly 30 into or from the channel of the upper rail IB, in order to allow the installation or removal of a panel 500. For this purpose, the locking hook 9 advantageously has a notch 93 provided for immobilizing this retractable lip 19.

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

[0074] More particularly, and without limitation, 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 support with the lower rail IA, 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 against a lateral wall of the lower rail IA, as seen in [Fig. 8]. This arrangement, with appropriate dimensioning of the lower support 21 relative to the calibrated rail 1, provides a play-free lower support in this mounted and assembled position, while the upper hook assembly 30 is also firmly clamped onto the upper rail IB, thus preventing vibrations and protecting the structure 100 and the panel 500 it supports.

[0075] In particular, the panel rail 3 has, 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 notably fixed by rivets 16 to the panel rail 3. In particular, the lower support assembly 2 has, on the side opposite the panel rail 3, a stop 29 arranged to cooperate in support with the lower rail IA, 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-tipping safety feature.

[0076] More particularly, and not limitingly, the means for fixing the panel 500 to the panel rail 3 comprise at least one interface seal 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 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 inner profile of this profile, into which it is threaded. It is therefore locked in the longitudinal Y and transverse X directions by the shape of the panel rail 3. The nut support 4 is locked in a single position along the vertical Z axis, in particular by front screws 18, once the system pre-assembly completed.

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

[0080] More specifically, the 500 panel is a photovoltaic panel, or a reflective glazing panel, or a panel incorporating 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 process comprises the following steps: - a step of obtaining El of the cladding 1000, of a lower rail IA and of 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 in relation to the panel 500 have been determined beforehand; - a fixing step E2 on the building 2000 of the lower rail 1A and the upper rail IB, parallel to each other along the second direction Y, which in a usual but not limiting variant may 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 turned towards the side opposite the ground; - a spacing step E4 of the upper hook assembly 30 and the lower hook assembly 2 by action on the adjustment means; - an introduction step E5 of each lower hook assembly 2 into the lower rail channel IA for temporary support along the vertical direction Z, and adjustment of the longitudinal position of each panel rail 3 along the longitudinal direction Y; - an adjustment step E6 of 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 fixing step E7 of 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 according to the vertical direction Z.

[0084] The panel 500 is finally fixed onto the panel rail 3, either 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, we select either a first alternative in which we handle the panel 500 equipped with each panel rail 3, which we fix together beforehand, or a second alternative in which we position each panel rail 3 in relation to the lower rail IA and the upper rail IB before fixing the panel 500 on 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 groove of the lower rail IA, the panel rail 3 is folded angularly towards the upper rail IB which rests on the lower rail IA, the adjustment means are operated to bring the upper hook assembly 30 into rest on the upper rail IB, and to clamp the upper rail IB by clamping means carried by the upper hook assembly.

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

[0088] Alternatively, in the second alternative, the panel 500 is fixed on each panel rail 3 and then the clamping means are released to allow a longitudinal adjustment along the longitudinal direction Y of the position of the panel 500 relative to the lower rail IA and the upper rail IB and along the direction of the lower rail IA and the upper rail IB, before locking the clamping means and proceeding with a vertical adjustment of the position of the panel 500 in distance from the lower rail IA and the upper rail IB by continuing the action on the adjustment means and loss of the lower support of the lower hook assembly 2 in the channel of the lower rail IA.

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

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

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

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

[0093] The invention is also usable for panels mounted slightly obliquely with respect to the field of gravity, either with rails slightly oblique with respect to the horizontal, or with a panel plane slightly oblique with respect to the vertical of the place with for example a sloping facade.

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

Claims

Demands

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 against 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 channel having an opening arranged to face away from the ground, the structure (100) further comprising a second part (300) intended to be removably fixed to the first part (200) comprising a panel rail (3) intended to support said panel (500),directly or through fastening 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) as a support, the panel rail (3) being able to be movable along a longitudinal direction (Y) along 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 capable of translational movement relative to the panel rail (3).

2. Cladding (1000) according to claim 1 characterized in that the upper hook assembly (30) comprises clamping means including said closing hook (9) intended to clamp the upper rail (IB) in a position of holding the panel rail (3) in vertical support.

3. A casing (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 translationally moving along the rail of panel (3) under the action of the adjustment means for resting on the upper rail (IB) and for the vertical adjustment of the panel rail (3) relative to the building (2000).

4. Housing (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. Cladding (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. Cladding (1000) according to claim 5 characterized in that the immobilizing means comprise the locking 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, permit a translational movement of the upper hook assembly (30) along the direction of the upper rail (IB), to permit a lateral adjustment of the position of the panel (500).

7. Housing (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) adapted to guide the guide pin (17), said closing hook (9) being adapted to be 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 adapted to be movable and a second upper oblong groove (142) oblique relative to the first lower oblong groove (141) and which is adapted to receive a pin (15) guided in a second bore (92) of the closing hook (9).

8. A casing (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) adapted to guide the guide pin (17), said closing hook (9) being adapted to be movable in rotation and / or translation relative to the movable hook (8), said assembly upper hook (30) having locking guides (14, 145) interposed between the movable hook (8) and the closing hook (9), each locking guide having each a unique oblong slot (143) in which the guide pin (17) is able to be movable on which the closing hook (9) is pivotally mounted, forming an outer double clevis surrounding the movable hook (8).

9. Housing (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. Cladding (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 upper rail channel (IB) in order to allow the installation or removal of said panel (500).

11. A casing (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 10 characterized in that the lower hook assembly (2) comprises a lower support (21) having a substantially cylindrical lower portion 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 mounting or dismounting, the lower hook assembly (2) further comprising a fixing plate (22) 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. Cladding (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. A method for installing cladding (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 12 on a building (2000) defining a plane, said building being arranged on ground defining a vertical direction (Z) along the Earth's gravitational 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 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 fixing step (E2) on the building (2000) of 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 fixing step (E3) on each panel rail (3) of the lower hook assembly (2) and the upper hook assembly (30) through the translational guide means and the adjustment means; - a spacing step (E) of the upper hook assembly (30) and the lower hook assembly (2) by action on the adjustment means; - an introduction step (E5) of each lower hook assembly (2) into the lower rail channel (IA) for temporary support in the vertical direction (Z); - an adjustment step (E6) of 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 fixing step (E7) of 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) according to 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) along the longitudinal direction (Y) after the introduction step (E5).

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