foldable solar installation with simplified assembly.

Abstract

The invention relates to a foldable solar installation (1) comprising: two frames (12) each supporting a photovoltaic panel (11), said frames being positioned side-by-side when the installation is in the unfolded position, at least one hinge (13) joining said frames together so as to allow the installation (1) to pass between the unfolded and folded positions, and two supports (14) each positioned near an outer edge (12D) of each frame (12) when the installation (1) is in the unfolded position, each support (14) comprising a longitudinal portion (14A) with a central cavity, the cavity of one of said portions supporting electrical and / or electronic devices configured to transfer electrical energy. Abstract figure: Figure 4

Description

Title of the invention: foldable solar installation with simplified assembly. Technical field.

[0001] The present invention relates to a foldable solar installation. The invention also relates to a method for mounting said installation, a method for exchanging data between the installation and an application of a mobile device as well as a specific use of said installation.

[0002] The invention relates to the technical field of solar installations, and more particularly to additional solar installations which can be directly installed at an end user's premises, in addition to an electrical installation supplied by an energy supplier. State of the art.

[0003] Currently, the costs inherent in the production of electricity from fossil fuels are increasingly high, and are not popular with the general public due to their harmful effects on the environment. Similarly, the production of electricity from nuclear power is efficient and less expensive, but the storage of waste from this production remains a problem. This is why the study of other alternatives for the production of electrical energy is particularly sought after, in particular alternatives deemed more ecological and more economical. Among these alternatives are solar installations, which transform the sun's rays into electrical energy.

[0004] Power plants are known that include solar installations consisting of a large number of photovoltaic panels and that allow significant energy production. The electricity thus produced is used to supply the electricity grid. Some buildings may also include smaller solar installations that will also supply them individually with electrical energy. This particularly concerns tertiary buildings as well as individual houses, apartment blocks, or even agricultural buildings. These solar installations are preferably installed on their roofs, but their positioning and size make their assembly complex, generally requiring intervention carried out by specialized companies and can prove costly.

[0005] Portable solar installations are also known for repowering electrical or electronic devices, such as additional heaters, cooking appliances or mobile devices for example. These installations can be used to supply electricity outside the electricity grid, which is why this This type of installation is particularly used when traveling, such as when camping for example. However, since these installations are smaller, they can be less efficient and are therefore less suitable for use in a home.

[0006] Published patent document CN 218 783 756 U shows a solar installation comprising two frames supporting two separate photovoltaic panels, the frames being configured to be closed against each other. The opening and closing of said panels are achieved by hinges. The installation also has four supports positioned at each corner of the installation and configured to fold under the frame of said panels, the supports also having to support said panels once the installation is unfolded. However, these supports are not very stable and fragile, making it difficult to maintain the installation on the ground.

[0007] Published patent document CN 204 089 712 U discloses a foldable solar installation formed by two frames supporting two photovoltaic panels. The two frames are held together by hinges, and can fold onto each other. The installation also includes two supports positioned at each of the outer edges of the installation. However, the supports described appear to be unstable and fragile, making it difficult to maintain the installation on the ground.

[0008] The invention aims to overcome at least one of the drawbacks of the aforementioned state of the art. More particularly, the invention aims to facilitate the assembly of foldable and portable solar installations, while reducing their size.

[0009] the invention also aims to facilitate the use of the solar installation and to provide new applications for said installations. Presentation of the invention.

[0010] The solution proposed by the invention is a foldable solar installation comprising: two frames each supporting a photovoltaic panel, said frames being positioned side by side when the installation is in the unfolded position, at least one hinge connecting said frames together so as to allow passage of the installation between the unfolded position and a folded position, and two supports each positioned near an outer edge of each frame when the installation is in the unfolded position, each support comprising a longitudinal portion with a central cavity, the cavity of one of said portions supporting electrical and / or electronic devices configured to transfer electrical energy.

[0011] The solar installation is small in size when in the unfolded position, with a length preferably between 1m and 3m and a height preferably The solar installation is typically between 50cm and 2m. Advantageously, this installation has a mass of between 20kg and 40kg, and includes two photovoltaic panels that can be folded one on top of the other so that it can be easily transported and stored. The solar installation is also easy to install, preferably with a single connection made using a socket for its connection to the electricity network. Advantageously, the installation requires very few, if any, tools.

[0012] Preferably, each frame comprises a first and a second edge and extends along a longitudinal axis. In addition, the hinges allow for easy unfolding and folding of the installation.

[0013] The supports serve to support the installation in the unfolded position, and also allow the storage of a portion of the electrical and / or electronic devices carrying out the transfer of electrical energy. These supports are therefore versatile. Advantageously, the great length of the supports makes it possible to better distribute the mass of the photovoltaic panels over the longitudinal portions, and improves the stability of the solar installation. Advantageously, each support extends over at least 75% of a length of the corresponding frame.

[0014] Other advantageous characteristics of the installation which is the subject of the invention are listed below. Each of these characteristics can be considered alone or in combination with the remarkable characteristics defined above. Each of these characteristics contributes, where appropriate, to the resolution of specific technical problems defined further in the description and in which the remarkable characteristics defined above do not necessarily participate. The latter may be the subject, where appropriate, of one or more divisional patent applications.

[0015] According to one embodiment of the invention, each photovoltaic panel is bi-glass and / or bifacial.

[0016] Preferably, the photovoltaic panels are bi-glass, which improves their strength. Said panels comprise two glass walls surrounding the photovoltaic cells, the glass being able to be replaced by polymerized glass, such as organic or epoxy glass for example. Polymerized glasses have the advantage of being lighter.

[0017] Preferably, the photovoltaic panels may be bifacial. Thus, the photovoltaic cells constituting said panels may operate on both sides: the side exposed to the sun's rays can directly convert solar energy into electrical energy, while the opposite, unexposed side uses the light reflected by the surrounding surfaces to convert the solar energy. These bifacial panels have an improved electrical energy production of approximately 20% compared to single-facial panels. This efficiency is also improved due to the location of electrical and / or electronic devices at the support(s), thus maximizing the exposure of the unexposed side of the photovoltaic panels to reflected rays.

[0018] In a particularly preferred manner, the photovoltaic panels are bi-glass and bifacial, which improves both the efficiency and the solidity of the installation.

[0019] According to one embodiment of the invention, the installation comprises two hinges extending respectively near first edges and second edges of the two frames of the installation, each hinge comprising at least one beam.

[0020] The two hinges are preferably positioned at a distance from each other and, more preferably, on each of the first and second edges of the frames. The positioning of the hinges on these two edges makes it possible to improve the stability of the installation, and also allows for better functionality and better durability of said hinges.

[0021] Advantageously, the at least one beam of the hinge extends at least partially along one of the first edges of the frames, or along one of the second edges of said frames. The beam improves the stability and strength of the hinge. Preferably, the beam extends over at least 70%, and more preferably, over at least 80% of a width of the frame on which it is mounted. The greater the length of the beams, the more the strength and stability of the hinge are improved, by more effectively supporting the mass of the photovoltaic panels resting on these hinges.

[0022] According to one embodiment of the invention, each hinge comprises two beams and a rotating portion, the beams extending respectively on either side of said portion and extending along the first edges or along the second edges of the two frames.

[0023] The presence of the two beams facilitates the folding and unfolding of the installation, improving the movement of the hinge. This also improves the robustness of the hinge.

[0024] According to one embodiment of the invention, the beams of the two hinges are positioned opposite each other along the first and second edges of one of the frames, the longitudinal portion of a support being attached to said beams by at least one joint so as to allow said portion to be folded against the corresponding photovoltaic panel, when the installation is in the folded position.

[0025] The at least one joint reduces the size of the installation during its transport and storage, by folding the support against the corresponding photovoltaic panel. Preferably, two joints attach the longitudinal portion of a support to the two hinges. The joints are therefore preferably positioned at a distance from each other, so as to improve the efficiency, strength and stability of installation, especially when unfolding or folding down the longitudinal sections.

[0026] According to one embodiment of the invention, each longitudinal portion comprises two lateral segments configured to be able to serve as support for the installation and attached to each other by a lower segment.

[0027] At least two different orientations of the photovoltaic panels are possible thanks to the lateral segments, these orientations being able to improve the efficiency of the installation or vary its assembly.

[0028] Preferably, each longitudinal portion comprises two lateral segments which are oriented substantially at 90° to each other. The expression “substantially at 90°” means that the lateral segments are oriented perpendicularly to each other, with a possible margin of error of plus or minus 5°, due in particular to manufacturing hazards. The longitudinal portion thus has an L shape.

[0029] In addition, the length of the two lateral segments of the same longitudinal portion are advantageously different. Thus, the length of one of the segments is at least twice as long, more preferably at least three times as long as the length of the other lateral segment of the same longitudinal portion. Preferably, in the same solar installation, the two supports are positioned so that the lateral segments of the same length are oriented on the same side of the installation. The length of the lateral segments is particularly suitable for improving the stability of the installation in each of the orientations of the photovoltaic panels.

[0030] This variation in length allows wall-mounted positioning of the solar installation, with an orientation of the photovoltaic panels at an angle of between 40° and 80°, and more preferably at an angle of between 60° and 70° relative to the ground. For positioning the solar installation on the ground, the orientation of said panels is carried out at an angle of between 20° and 60°, more preferably at an angle of between 25° and 40° relative to the ground. The determination of the orientation of said panels must be ideal to maximize exposure to solar rays.

[0031] Alternatively, the length of the two lateral segments of each longitudinal portion may be identical.

[0032] According to one embodiment of the invention, said installation further comprises at least one lateral portion supporting a ballast, each of said portions being associated with one of the photovoltaic panels and attached to the beam of the corresponding hinge and / or to the longitudinal portion of the support corresponding to said panel, the lateral portion being configured to be positioned against the ground and under the photovoltaic panel.

[0033] Ballast is used to effectively hold the solar installation on the ground, particularly during difficult weather conditions such as windy periods for example. Ballast can also help to stabilize the installation on uneven ground. Preferably, the lateral portion of the installation extends over at least 50%, preferably at least 75%, and even more preferably over at least 85% of the width of the frame under which it extends. The greater the width of the lateral portion, the more the ground support of the installation is improved. Preferably, the lateral portion can be manufactured in the form of a plate or a grid for example, the grid making it possible to limit its weight.

[0034] Alternatively, a ground fixing system can also be considered instead of the ballast. This alternative is however not preferred since it requires the use of additional tools, which is more expensive and more complex to install. A fixing system for wall positioning of the solar installation can also be considered.

[0035] According to one embodiment of the invention, when the installation is in the unfolded position and resting on two of the lateral segments, storage devices extend transversely between the longitudinal portions of the supports and substantially perpendicular to the ground, said devices being configured to receive planters.

[0036] Alternatively, storage devices may extend between the supports of the installation, these devices being used for example for positioning planters. The positioning of these devices may therefore make the use of ballast unnecessary, the earth installed in the planters having the same function. The storage devices can only be used when the installation is supported on the lateral segments, so that these devices are advantageously positioned substantially perpendicular to the ground, and at the rear of the installation. By "substantially", it is meant that the storage devices are preferably oriented perpendicular to the ground, with a margin of error of plus or minus 5° depending on the manufacturing and assembly hazards of the installation.

[0037] According to one embodiment of the invention, a locking device is associated with each hinge and each joint, each of said devices being configured to keep said hinges and joints open or closed depending on the position of the installation.

[0038] A locking device is preferably provided for each hinge and joint, or, alternatively but not preferably, the devices may be common to several hinges or joints and be, for example, actuated simultaneously. The installation can thus be locked in the unfolded position or possibly, be locked in the folded position. The locking devices therefore prevent the installation from opening unexpectedly, and / or closing unexpectedly, improving the safety of the installation.

[0039] Each locking device may consist of, for example, a retractable element, a pin, a tab or a hook positioned on one of the beams or on a part of the rotating portion of the hinge, and be configured to be inserted into a corresponding hole on the other beam or on another part of the rotating portion, in order to temporarily fix the hinge in the desired position. A similar device may be used for joints. Alternatively, a single hinge and / or a single joint may comprise such a locking device.

[0040] By keeping the hinges open or closed "depending on the position of the installation", it is meant that the locking devices associated with the hinges make it possible to keep the two photovoltaic panels side by side when the installation is in the unfolded position, and possibly, to keep them on top of each other when the installation is in the folded position. By keeping the joints open or closed "depending on the position of the installation", it is meant that the locking devices associated with the joints make it possible to keep the longitudinal portions of the supports in the deployed or folded position, in order to allow, respectively, the installation to maintain its unfolded position or its folded position.

[0041] According to one embodiment of the invention, at least one of the supports further comprises an internal portion supporting the electrical or electronic devices and positioned in the central cavity of the longitudinal portion, said internal portion being configured to be folded down simultaneously with the longitudinal portion.

[0042] Preferably, the internal portion must be of sufficient size to be able to effectively support the majority of electrical or electronic devices. However, this portion must remain at a minimum size to allow maximum opening of the longitudinal portion and promote the passage of light from the surfaces surrounding the installation to the side not exposed to the rays of the photovoltaic panels. This design improves the efficiency of the installation by increasing its production of electrical energy.

[0043] According to one embodiment of the invention, the electrical and / or electronic devices of said installation comprise: at least one micro-inverter, at least one cable including connection cables and a power cable configured to transmit electrical energy to an electrical network, and a microcontroller mounted on said power cable and configured to exchange data.

[0044] Electrical and / or electronic devices can perform various functions in the solar installation: some of these devices transfer electrical energy from the solar installation to the electrical network, for example the cable power supply. Connection cables allow the transmission of current from each solar panel to the microinverter.

[0045] Other devices, such as micro-inverters, are used for current conversion, allowing better management of electrical energy and possible integration of the solar installation into other electrical systems or networks. Thus, the use of a micro-inverter is preferred because it optimizes the efficiency of the panels, while being easy to install. In addition, the use of a single micro-inverter makes it possible to limit the number of components as much as possible and to lighten the installation. However, several micro-inverters can also be used. Alternatively, one or more inverters can replace the micro-inverters.

[0046] Finally, the microcontrollers are used to exchange data between the installation and a mobile device application. Preferably, only one microcontroller is provided per installation, it is preferably mounted remotely from the microinverter, on the power cable. However, other positions of the microcontroller can be envisaged. Alternatively, but not preferably, one or more controllers, one or more systems on a chip (whose acronym is "SoC") or a building management system (whose acronym is "BMS") can be used instead of or in addition to the microcontroller(s).

[0047] According to one embodiment of the invention, the electrical connection cables connecting each of the photovoltaic panels to the micro-inverter are positioned close to each of the frames of said panels.

[0048] Positioning the connection cables near or on the frames of the installation increases the surface area of ​​the photovoltaic panels that can receive the reflected light. For bifacial photovoltaic panels, this improves the amount of solar energy converted into electrical energy, and increases the overall efficiency of the installation.

[0049] According to one embodiment of the invention, the lower segment of each longitudinal portion is configured to extend along an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the corresponding frame, the lower segments of the supports being configured to possibly serve as support when the installation is in the unfolded position.

[0050] In this variant, the longitudinal portion of a support is in the form of a polygon, and more preferably in the form of a hexagon. Advantageously, the lower segment has a length less than the length of one of the lateral segments. Preferably, the lower segment of the longitudinal portion is of a length less than the length of the frame of the installation on which said portion is mounted. In a particularly preferred manner, the length of the lower segment corresponds to less than 30% of the total length of the frame, this restricted length of the lower segment making it possible to limit both the mass of the supports or the complexity of the installation. However, it is necessary that the length of the lower segment is sufficient to ensure the stability of the installation when it is supported on said segments.

[0051] In this variant, the installation has three different supports depending on the lower segments or the lateral segments of the longitudinal portions on which it rests. Thus, the photovoltaic panels can also have three different orientations. This variant allows the installation to be positioned on the ground or on a wall.

[0052] The first orientation of the photovoltaic panels implies that the installation is supported on the lower segments of the longitudinal portions. The photovoltaic panels are then oriented horizontally and parallel to the ground. In this case, the lower segments and the photovoltaic panels preferably extend substantially parallel to each other, with a margin of error of plus or minus 5° depending on the manufacturing and assembly hazards of the installation.

[0053] The second orientation of the photovoltaic panels implies that the installation rests on one of the lateral segments of each longitudinal portion, the photovoltaic panels then being oriented at an angle of between 20° and 80° relative to the ground.

[0054] Finally, the photovoltaic panels may have a third orientation opposite to the second orientation, the installation then resting on the other two lateral segments of the longitudinal portions. These different orientations improve the flexibility of the installation, particularly by improving its energy production capacity and by providing better adaptation of the positioning of the panels to the solar rays.

[0055] Preferably, the lower segment of the longitudinal portion is positioned centrally to the total length of said portion, improving the stability of the installation when it is supported on said segments. Alternatively, the lower segment of each longitudinal portion can be offset relative to the total length of the longitudinal portion, making it possible to vary the possible orientations of the photovoltaic panels.

[0056] In this embodiment variant, the lateral segments are preferably of identical lengths. More specifically, the lateral portion of the support is fixed to one of the lateral segments or to the lower segment of the corresponding longitudinal portion, depending on the segments on which the installation rests.

[0057] Alternatively, the side segments may be of different lengths.

[0058] The invention also relates to a method of mounting a solar installation according to the invention, said method comprising the following steps.

[0059] Opening the photovoltaic panels of said installation, then blocking said open panels.

[0060] Raising each longitudinal portion of the corresponding photovoltaic panel, then blocking said raised portions.

[0061] Turning the installation over to position it resting on the supports.

[0062] Then connect the installation to an electrical network outlet.

[0063] The solar installation assembly process is easy and quick to implement, with no tools required for deploying the installation and connecting it to the electricity grid. Connection to said grid is also easy and quick to achieve. This process also helps reduce installation costs.

[0064] According to one embodiment of the invention, the blocking of the open panels and the blocking of the raised longitudinal portions is achieved using the hinge and joint blocking devices.

[0065] The locking devices can help stabilize the installation when it is in the unfolded position or in the retracted position.

[0066] According to one embodiment of the invention, the method comprises an additional step of fixing a lateral portion to the longitudinal portion of the support and / or to the beam of the corresponding hinge of at least one of the photovoltaic panels, then positioning the ballast on said lateral portion.

[0067] Adding ballast when assembling the installation improves the stability of the installation on the ground.

[0068] According to one embodiment of the invention, when the solar installation is in the unfolded position: the two frames supporting the photovoltaic panels are joined by their inner edges thanks to at least one hinge, the longitudinal portions of the installation are positioned at right angles to a plane formed by said panels, the locking devices of the hinges and joints helping to maintain the installation in the unfolded position.

[0069] The installation is easy to deploy and preferably assembled without using tools. In addition, the installation has increased stability which is notably due to its structural rigidity.

[0070] According to one embodiment of the invention, when the installation is in the folded position: the two frames and the corresponding photovoltaic panels are positioned one above the other, each longitudinal portion is folded between the beams of the hinges and against the corresponding photovoltaic panel, so as to reduce the size of said installation.

[0071] The installation in the folded position has minimal space requirements. It is easy to handle, which makes it easy to transport.

[0072] The invention also relates to a use of a solar installation according to the invention, as a coffee table, the photovoltaic panels of the installation being positioned horizontally and parallel to the ground, the installation being configured to rest on the lower segments of the two supports of said installation.

[0073] Advantageously, a method for exchanging data between a solar installation according to the invention and a mobile device application is also described, the method comprising the following steps.

[0074] First, there is a collection of performance data by at least one microcontroller associated with the installation, said data comprising at least the intensity so as to monitor the power generated by the installation.

[0075] Then there is a transmission of the performance data to a server via a wireless network connection, the transmission being carried out by the at least one microcontroller.

[0076] Then, there is access to the performance data stored on the server by the mobile device application via an internet connection.

[0077] And finally, there is a display of the performance data on a user interface of the mobile device application.

[0078] The use of a minimal number of components in the design of the solar installation also simplifies the exchange of data between said installation and the application of the mobile device. Preferably, this application is specific for use with this installation, and is configured to be compatible with any micro-inverter or inverter on the market. Preferably, the components of the solar installation also allow its monitoring and diagnosis in real time.

[0079] Advantageously, the data collection step further comprises the collection of environmental data from at least one environmental sensor coupled to the solar installation.

[0080] The addition of environmental data collection makes it possible to possibly adapt the operation of the installation according to its environment, thus to manage it more efficiently according to the data acquired and transferred to the application. This collection can also bring additional functionalities to the installation.

[0081] Advantageously, the application of the mobile device remotely controls the microinverter using at least one microcontroller, this control including the modification of the operating parameters of the microinverter.

[0082] The use of a mobile device application allows the end user to remotely learn about the operation of the installation and possibly control it. The operation of the installation and the application can also be personalized. Brief description of the figures.

[0083] Other advantages and characteristics of the invention will appear better on reading the description of a preferred embodiment which follows, with reference to the appended drawings, produced as indicative and non-limiting examples and in which: - [Fig.l] shows a perspective view and from the front of a solar installation in the unfolded position according to a first variant embodiment of the invention. - [Fig.2] shows a perspective and rear view of the solar installation of [Fig.l]. - [Fig.3] shows a view of the solar installation of figures 1 and 2, in position folded. - [Fig.4] shows a rear and perspective view of a solar installation according to a second variant embodiment of the invention, in the unfolded position and comprising ballasts for positioning on the ground. - [Fig.5] shows a rear and perspective view of the solar installation of [Fig.4] in the unfolded position and for mounting on a wall. - [Fig.6] shows a view from below of the solar installation of figures 4 and 5, in partially unfolded position. - [Fig.7] shows an enlargement of an internal portion of a support of the solar installation according to the second variant of figures 4 to 6. Description of the embodiments.

[0084] As used herein, and unless otherwise indicated, the use of the ordinal adjectives "first", "second", etc., to describe an object simply indicates that different occurrences of similar objects are mentioned and does not imply that the objects so described must be in a given sequence, whether in time, space, ranking, etc. "X and / or Y" means: X alone or Y alone or X+Y. Generally speaking, it will be appreciated that in the various accompanying drawings, the objects are arbitrarily drawn to facilitate their reading. The terms "upper" and "lower", "outer" and "inner" are used to define in space components of a solar installation according to their positioning when said installation is in the unfolded position.

[0085] Figures 1, 2 and 3 show different views of a solar installation according to a first variant embodiment of the invention. Figures 1 and 2 show the first variant in the unfolded position and comprising ballast, [Fig.3] shows said variant without ballast and in the folded position.

[0086] A foldable solar installation 1 according to a first embodiment of the invention is configured to be easily installable and transportable. The installation 1 therefore preferably comprises two photovoltaic panels 11 each mounted on a frame 12, said panels being configured to be folded one above the other in order to reduce the size of the installation 1 during its transport.

[0087] These photovoltaic panels 11 are preferably bifacial panels, which improves their energy production. Indeed, these panels 11 comprise a side directly exposed to the solar rays and an opposite unexposed side configured to receive the solar rays reflected by the surfaces surrounding the installation 1. Each side of the photovoltaic panels 11 can therefore transform the received solar energy into electrical energy. Advantageously, these panels 11 can be bi-glass, improving their solidity. In a particularly preferred manner, the photovoltaic panels 11 are both bi-glass and bifacial.

[0088] The frame 12 of each photovoltaic panel 11 is preferably made of composite materials, plastics (such as polyvinyl chloride) or plant materials (such as wood). In a particularly preferred manner, the material chosen to manufacture the frame 12 is a metallic material, such as stainless steel or aluminum.

[0089] The photovoltaic panels 11 and the frames 12 preferably have a parallelepiped shape. Each frame 12 extends between a first edge 12A and a second edge 12B and along a longitudinal axis (x) oriented perpendicular to said edges (12A, 12B). These edges are configured to be positioned either in contact with the ground or at a distance from the ground when the installation 1 is in the unfolded position, their positioning depending on the orientation of the photovoltaic panels 11.

[0090] Each frame 12 also comprises an inner edge 12C and an outer edge 12D which each extend perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (x) and between the first and second edges (12A, 12B). When the installation 1 is in the unfolded position, the frames 12 are positioned side by side and their respective inner edges 12C are in contact with each other, the photovoltaic panels 11 are then adjacent and extend in a plane. In the unfolded position, the outer edges 12D of the two frames 12 of the installation 1 are configured to be positioned at a distance from each other.

[0091] When the installation 1 is in the unfolded position, each frame 12 also comprises an upper face 12E oriented towards a medium external to the installation 1, said face being configured to be in contact with the photovoltaic panel 11 mounted on the frame. This frame 12 also comprises a lower face 12F oriented towards the ground and configured to support at least one hinge 13.

[0092] The hinges 13 are preferably two in number and connect the two frames 12 of the installation 1 together in order to allow the installation 1 to pass between the unfolded position and a folded position. These hinges 13 are preferably positioned at a distance from each other, therefore close to the first or second edges (12A, 12B) of said frames 12, and, more preferably, on said edges. This distance between the hinges ensures good efficiency in the de- folding and unfolding of the installation.

[0093] Each hinge 13 advantageously comprises at least one beam 13A, and more preferably, each hinge 13 comprises two beams 13A. These beams 13A extend either along the first edges 12A, or along the second edges 12B of the frames 12 of the installation 1. Preferably, each beam 13A extends over at least 50%, and more preferably, over at least 75% of the width of the first or second edge (12A, 12B) of the corresponding frame 12.

[0094] The two beams 13A of a hinge 13 are joined at a rotating portion 13B preferably positioned near the inner edges 12C of the frames 12. Preferably, each hinge 13 comprises at least one locking device configured to keep it open or closed, and thus keep the installation 1 in the unfolded or folded position, the locking device not being shown in these figures.

[0095] The solar installation 1 further comprises two supports 14 positioned on the lower face 12F and close to each of the outer edges 12D of the two frames 12. The supports 14 therefore support the frames 12 and the photovoltaic panels 11, and allow the installation 1 to be positioned on a wall or on the ground.

[0096] Each support 14 may optionally extend over at least 70%, preferably at least 80% of the length of the outer edge 12D of the frame 12. The attachment of the support 14 to the frame 12 is carried out by methods known to those skilled in the art, such as welding, gluing or by using fixing elements for example. The support 14 is advantageously manufactured from materials similar to the materials used to manufacture the frame 12 so as to facilitate their attachment together. Preferably, each support 14 is attached laterally to the two beams 13A positioned opposite the two hinges 13, positioned respectively on the first and second edges (12A, 12B) of the two frames 12.

[0097] Each support 14 further comprises a longitudinal portion 14A which extends over the entire length of the corresponding frame 12. This portion 14A comprises a central cavity with an internal portion 14B mounted in the cavity. The longitudinal portions 14A are preferably positioned substantially perpendicular to the plane formed by the photovoltaic panels 11, with a margin of error of plus or minus 5% depending on the manufacturing and assembly hazards of the installation 1.

[0098] Preferably, each longitudinal portion 14A is presented, in this first variant, in a substantially polygonal shape, and more specifically, in a substantially hexagonal shape. Each longitudinal portion 14A may comprise two lateral segments 14A.1 and a lower segment 14A.2 configured to be positioned between the lateral segments 14A.1 and possibly be in contact with the ground when the installation 1 is in its unfolded position. This contact with the ground is advantageously achieved when the photovoltaic panels 11 are oriented parallel to the ground. Advantageously, each lower segment 14A.2 has a length less than 50%, more preferably less than 30% of the total length of the longitudinal portion 14A and the frame 12.

[0099] Preferably, in a longitudinal portion 14A, the length of each lateral segment 14A.1 is at least twice as long, or even at least three times as long as the length of the lower segment 14A.2. The lateral segments 14A.1 can also serve as a support for the solar installation 1 in order to allow two additional orientations for the photovoltaic panels 11. Advantageously, the photovoltaic panels 11 are then oriented at an angle of between 30° and 80°, and more preferably at an angle of between 40° and 60° relative to the horizontal. The two new orientations are opposite each other.

[0100] For each support 14 of the solar installation 1, the longitudinal portion 14A is attached to the corresponding frame 12 by at least one joint 14C. Preferably, at least two joints 14C attach the longitudinal portion 14A to the frame 12, and are advantageously positioned at a distance from each other to obtain better stability when raising or folding said portion against the corresponding panel 11.

[0101] More preferably, the longitudinal portion 14A is attached to the beams 13A of the two hinges 13 positioned opposite each other along the first and second edges (12A, 12B) of the same frame 12, by the two joints 14C. These two joints 14C serve to fold the longitudinal portion 14A against the corresponding photovoltaic panel 11, when the installation 1 is in the folded position. Thus, the longitudinal portion 14A is also folded between the hinges 13.

[0102] Preferably, each joint 14C also comprises a locking device which allows it to be kept open or closed, and thus allows either the longitudinal portion 14A to be kept folded down during the manufacture or assembly of the installation 1, or to be kept raised when the installation 1 is in the unfolded position.

[0103] Optionally, the installation 1 may also comprise at least one lateral portion 16 configured to be positioned under the corresponding photovoltaic panel 11 and against the ground. Each lateral portion 16 is attached to the longitudinal portion 14A of the support 14, and / or to the beam 13A of the hinge 13 positioned close to the ground. Preferably, each lateral portion 16 extends over at least 50%, preferably over at least 75%, and even more preferably over at least 85% of the width of the corresponding frame 12, in order to be able to easily and effectively support a ballast 16A.

[0104] The 16A ballast helps to hold the solar installation 1 on the ground, and can be manufactured in any material capable of supporting a ballast 16A of several kilograms. Advantageously, the ballast is at least 10 kg, and more preferably still, at least 15 kg per lateral portion 16. In the installation 1, two lateral portions 16 are preferably positioned side by side, under each photovoltaic panel 11, each portion supporting a ballast 16A. Advantageously, the ballast 16A extends over at least 70%, more preferably over at least 80% of the surface of the corresponding lateral portion 16, said portion being able to advantageously be fixed to a lateral segment 14A.1 or lower 14A.2 depending on the segments (14A.1, 14A.2) on which the installation 1 is supported, and depending on the orientation given to the photovoltaic panels 11.

[0105] Preferably, the ballast 16A is made from materials known to those skilled in the art, such as sand, gravel or concrete. In a particularly preferred manner, ceramic is the preferred material for manufacturing the ballast 16A because it is particularly effective in improving its resistance to the high temperatures produced by the photovoltaic panels 11. In a particularly advantageous manner, the ballast 16A can be made from a reflective material or be covered with such a material in order to improve the production of electrical energy by the solar installation 1.

[0106] Alternatively, the ballast may be made in one piece with the side portion, and include integrated fixing means for mounting on the installation.

[0107] The lateral portion 16 may be mounted to the longitudinal portion 14A of a support 14 by fixing methods known to those skilled in the art. This fixing is preferably temporary, in order to be able to change the orientation of the photovoltaic panels 11 of the installation 1 if necessary, and therefore to be able to easily move the lateral portion 16 and the ballast 16A. In particular, fixing elements, such as screws or bolts, may be used. An alternative rail system may also be envisaged for sliding the lateral portion 16, with or without ballast 16A, at the level of the lateral segments 14A.1 or lower 14A.2 serving as support for the installation.

[0108] The cavity of at least one of the longitudinal portions 14A can support one or more electrical and / or electronic devices 15, configured in particular to transfer electrical energy. The two longitudinal portions 14A can support all or part of the electrical and / or electronic devices 15. In a particularly preferred manner, said devices are positioned on a single internal portion 14B, therefore on a single support 14.

[0109] Preferably, the electrical and / or electronic devices 15 comprise at least one micro-inverter 15A or possibly an inverter used to transform the direct current produced by the photovoltaic panels 11 into alternating current, can be reinjected into the electrical network of a building for example, via a power cable. Other cables, such as connection cables 15B, can be used to connect the various electrical and / or electronic devices 15 to each other and to the photovoltaic panels 11, and can also be mounted against said panels of the installation 1.

[0110] the electrical and / or electronic devices 15 also comprise at least one microcontroller. More preferably, a single microcontroller is provided for the two photovoltaic panels 11 of the installation 1. Alternatively, two microcontrollers may be provided, one per photovoltaic panel 11. This or these microcontrollers carry out data exchanges between the photovoltaic panel(s) 11 and a mobile device application. This or these microcontrollers may optionally be used to exercise feedback control over the operation of the installation 1.

[0111] More specifically, in [Fig. 3], the solar installation 1 is shown in the folded position. It comprises the two frames 12 and the two photovoltaic panels 11 shown positioned one above the other. These panels 11 are kept at a distance from each other thanks to the hinges 13 mounted on the frames 12, and in particular, thanks to the presence of beams 13A and wedges preferentially positioned on the rotating portion 13B of said hinge 13. These wedges are not shown in these figures, and prevent the overlapping of the beams 13A of the hinge 13. Maintaining this distance also allows the supports 14 to be folded between the hinges 13 and against their respective photovoltaic panel 11, thus reducing the size of the installation, in particular during its transport. The electrical and / or electronic devices are also fixed on one of the supports 14 but are not visible in Figures 1 to 3.

[0112] Figures 4, 5, 6 and 7 show different views of the solar installation according to a second embodiment variant. This variant is particularly preferred because it is less expensive and less heavy than the first variant. [Fig.4] shows a view of the rear of the solar installation of the second variant, in the unfolded position on the ground and with ballast. [Fig.5] shows a view of the rear of the solar installation of [Fig.4], in the unfolded position and in the mounting position on a wall. [Fig.6] shows a view of the solar installation of Figures 4 and 5 in the partially folded position. Finally, [Fig.7] shows a view of the internal portion of the support with the electrical and / or electronic devices.

[0113] In this second variant embodiment of the invention, the solar installation 1 comprises the two hinges 13, each comprising the two beams 13A associated with the rotating portion 13B. The hinges 13, and, more specifically, the beams 13A of said hinges 13 extend on the first or second edges (12A, 12B) of the frames 12 of the installation 1. Alternatively but not shown in these figures, the installation may include only one hinge.

[0114] The two supports 14 of the installation 1 are also shown and each comprise the longitudinal portion 14A constituted by the two lateral segments 14A.1 joined by the lower segment 14A.2. In this variant, the longitudinal portion is substantially in the form of an L, the lower segment 14A.2 being preferably curved and not being able to serve as a support for the solar installation 1.

[0115] More specifically, the lateral segments 14A.1 of the same longitudinal portion 14A have two different lengths, one of the segments being at least twice the length of the other segment. This variation in length allows the photovoltaic panels 11 of the solar installation 1 to have two different orientations depending on the desired positioning of the installation, on the ground or on the wall.

[0116] Thus, the solar installation 1 has a first positioning on the ground (shown in [Fig.4]), in which the panels 11 are oriented at an angle of between 20° and 60° relative to the ground, more preferably at an angle of between 25° and 40°. The installation is then supported on the longest lateral segments 14A.1.

[0117] The solar installation 1 also has a second wall positioning ((shown in [Fig.5]), in which the angle of orientation of the solar panels 11 relative to the ground is between 40° and 80°, and more preferably between 60° and 70°. The installation 1 is then supported on the longest lateral segments 14A.1 of the supports 14, said segments being configured, in this positioning, to be fixed to the wall. The lateral segments 14A.1 can be mounted and fixed to the wall using fixing methods known to those skilled in the art, such as fixing elements of the screw or bolt type for example. Holes can therefore be provided on the lateral segments 14A.1 to allow such fixing.

[0118] In this second variant, the solar installation 1 may comprise one, more preferably two, lateral portions 16. Each lateral portion 16 is configured to be mounted on one of the hinges 13, and more specifically, on one of the beams 13A of the hinge 13, and / or on the lateral segment 14A.1 of the longitudinal portion 14A corresponding to the beam 13A. Thus, the mounting of the lateral portions 16 is carried out on the hinge 13 positioned near the longest lateral segment 14A.1 of the longitudinal portion 14A. This mounting can be carried out using magnetic elements, or by fixing elements. The double mounting of the lateral portions 16 on the hinge 13 and on the longitudinal portions 14A allows more effective maintenance of the installation on the ground.

[0119] The ballast 16A used to hold the solar installation 1 on the ground is a ballast as defined in the first variant. The lateral portion 16 on which the ballast 16A is mounted can also be manufactured in the form of a grid, which reduces its mass, thus reducing the total mass of the installation.

[0120] [Fig.6] shows the solar installation 1 according to the second variant being unfolded. The longitudinal portions 14A of the supports 14 are shown folded against their respective photovoltaic panel 11 and between the beams 13A of the hinges 13.

[0121] [Fig.7] shows an enlargement of the internal portion 14B of the support 14 on which the electrical and / or electronic devices 15 are mounted. This internal portion 14B is installed in the longitudinal portion 14A, and is preferably small in size to allow for better efficiency, when the photovoltaic panels 11 are bifacial. The electrical and / or electronic devices 15 include in particular the micro inverter 15A and two sockets 15C, each serving to connect the installation 1 to the electrical network via an additional wall socket, and / or to a connection with another solar installation 1 allowing several installations to be connected in series. In this second case, only one power supply to the electrical network is necessary at one end of the series of installations, the second socket serving for connection to other solar installations 1.Particularly preferably, each of the 15C sockets can be used for connection to the electrical network or for connection to another installation.

[0122] In these figures, the positioning of the various connection cables 15B is also shown on the lower face 12F of the photovoltaic panels 11, this positioning being preferably carried out on the edges (12A, 12B, 12C, 12D) of the frames 12 in order to limit as much as possible the covering of said panels by the cables 15B, and improve their efficiency. This also limits the risk of damage to said cables during assembly of the installation.

[0123] The invention also relates to a method of mounting the solar installation according to the invention. This method is described in correlation with Figures 1 to 7, and comprises the following steps.

[0124] Initially, there is an opening of the photovoltaic panels 11 of the solar installation 1, then blocking of said open panels. This blocking is enabled by actuation of the blocking device of the at least one hinge 13. Preferably, during opening, the upper face 12E of the frames 12 is positioned against the ground. Preferably, when the installation 1 comprises two hinges 13, the blocking devices of the two hinges 13 are actuated.

[0125] In a second step, there is a lifting of each longitudinal portion 14A of the corresponding photovoltaic panel 11. The longitudinal portions 14A are then preferably positioned substantially perpendicularly to the plane formed by said panels. The term “substantially” means that each longitudinal portion 14A forms an angle of 90° with the plane of said panels, this angle being able to vary according to the manufacturing and / or assembly hazards of said portions 14A.

[0126] Then, there is a blocking of said portions to keep them raised, this blocking being carried out by actuation of the blocking device of the at least one joint 14C. Preferably, each support comprises two joints 14C, each having a blocking device, the actuation of one, or even preferably of the two blocking devices helping to keep the joints 14C open and to keep the longitudinal portions 14A raised.

[0127] In a third step, there is a turning of the solar installation 1 so that it rests on the supports 14, and more specifically, on the longitudinal portions 14A of said supports. The positioning of the installation 1 is then determined according to the chosen installation (wall or ground) or according to the desired orientation for the photovoltaic panels 11. The orientation of the panels depends on the lower segments 14A.2 or lateral segments 14A.1 on which the installation 1 rests.

[0128] Optionally, an additional step of fixing the lateral portion(s) 16 to the solar installation 1 is carried out, this fixing being carried out by the aforementioned fixing methods. The ballast 16A is then positioned on the lateral portion 16, with or without fixing of said ballast.

[0129] More specifically, in the case of the first variant embodiment of the invention, the mounting of each lateral portion 16 is carried out on the lower segments 14A.2 or on the lateral segments 14A.1 of the longitudinal portions 14A on which the installation 1 rests, and / or on the corresponding beam 13A of the hinge 13 located closest to said portion.

[0130] In the case of the second variant embodiment of the invention, the mounting of each lateral portion 16 is carried out on two of the lateral segments 14A.1 of the two longitudinal portions 14A on which the installation 1 rests, and / or on the corresponding beam 13A of the hinge 13. Preferably, the hinge 13 on which the lateral portion 16 rests is the one positioned close to the longest lateral segments 14A.1 of the longitudinal portions 14A, because it will be positioned as close as possible to the ground to allow the orientation of the photovoltaic panels 11 between 25° and 40° relative to the ground.

[0131] Finally, there is a connection of the installation 1 to a socket of the electrical network is made by a power cable. Optionally, other connections can be provided, depending on the desired functionalities and / or the desired degree of facilitation. Advantageously, at least two 15C sockets are provided, each allowing either a connection to the electrical network, or a connection for a series assembly of several installations. These sockets are interchangeable.

[0132] Thus, when the solar installation 1 is in the unfolded position, the two frames 12 supporting the photovoltaic panels 11 are joined to each other by their edges. interiors 12C, thanks to the at least one hinge 13. In addition, these supports 14 are positioned substantially at right angles to a plane formed by said panels, and the locking devices of the hinges 13 and the joints 14C allow the installation 1 to be held in the unfolded position. The supports 14 therefore support the installation 1.

[0133] Conversely, when the installation 1 is in the folded position, the two frames 12 and the corresponding photovoltaic panels 11 are positioned one above the other, and the supports 14 are folded between the hinges 13 and against the corresponding panels, thus making it possible to reduce the size of the installation 1 as much as possible.

[0134] The invention also relates to a method for exchanging data between a solar installation according to the invention and an application for a mobile device. This method is described in correlation with the aforementioned figures 1 to 7, and comprises the following steps.

[0135] Firstly, there is a collection of performance data preferably carried out by at least one microcontroller, or possibly carried out by one or more controllers. The microcontroller(s) may be associated with one or more photovoltaic panel(s) 11. This data includes at least the power generated by the installation 1 and deduced from the measurement of the voltage and / or the intensity. Optionally, this data collection may optionally include a collection of environmental data from at least one environmental sensor coupled to the solar installation 1.

[0136] In a second step, there is a transmission of the performance data of the installation to a server via a wireless network connection (Wifi or Bluetooth for example) provided for example by a box, the transmission being preferably carried out by a microcontroller, and in a non-preferred manner, by at least two microcontrollers (one for each photovoltaic panel 11).

[0137] Thirdly, there is access to the performance data stored on the server carried out by the application of the mobile device via an internet connection. This data can be accessed, for example, by the customer, by an energy supplier or by the company in charge of the distribution of the installations 1. The mobile device can therefore be a tablet, a computer or a mobile phone for example (such as a smartphone).

[0138] Finally, there is a display of the performance data on a user interface of the mobile device application. Optionally, the mobile device application remotely controls the microinverter or inverter using at least one microcontroller, this control including, for example, modifying the operating parameters of the inverter or microinverter.

[0139] The invention may also relate to a use of the installation 1 as as a coffee table, when the plane formed by the photovoltaic panels 11 is positioned horizontally and parallel to the ground. The installation 1 is in the unfolded position, and rests on the lower segments 14A.2 of the supports 14. This use is only possible in the case of the first embodiment of the invention.

[0140] The arrangement of the various elements and / or means and / or steps of the invention, in the embodiments described above, should not be understood as requiring such an arrangement in all implementations. In any event, it will be understood that various modifications may be made to these elements and / or means and / or steps, without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0141] Furthermore, one or more features disclosed only in one embodiment may be combined with one or more other features disclosed only in another embodiment. Similarly, one or more features disclosed only in one embodiment may be generalized to other embodiments, even if that or those features are described only in combination with other features.

[0142] The use of the verb “comprise”, “comprise” or “include” and its conjugated forms does not exclude the presence of other elements or other steps than those set out in a claim.

Claims

Claims

1. Foldable solar installation (1) comprising: - two frames (12) each supporting a photovoltaic panel (11), said frames being positioned side by side when the installation is in the unfolded position, - at least one hinge (13) connecting said frames together so as to allow passage of the installation (1) between the unfolded position and a folded position, and - Two supports (14) each positioned near an outer edge (12D) of each frame (12) when the installation (1) is in the unfolded position, characterized in that each support (14) comprises a longitudinal portion (14A) with a central cavity, the cavity of one of said portions supporting electrical and / or electronic devices (15) configured to transfer electrical energy.

2. Foldable solar installation (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that each photovoltaic panel (11) is bi-glass and / or bifacial.

3. Foldable solar installation (1) according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the installation comprises two hinges (13) extending respectively near first edges (12A) and second edges (12B) of the two frames (12) of the installation (1), each hinge (13) comprising at least one beam (13A).

4. Foldable solar installation (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that each hinge (13) comprises two beams (13A) and a rotating portion (13B), the beams (13A) extending respectively on either side of said portion and extending along the first edges (12A) or along the second edges (12B) of the two frames (12).

5. Foldable solar installation (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that the beams (13A) of the two hinges (13) are positioned opposite each other along the first and second edges (12A, 12B) of one of the frames (12), the longitudinal portion (14A) of a support (14) being attached to said beams by at least one joint (14C) so as to allow the folding of said portion against the corresponding photovoltaic panel (11), when the installation (1) is in the folded position.

6. Foldable solar installation (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each longitudinal portion (14A) comprises two side segments (14A.1) configured to be able to serve as support for the installation (1) and attached to each other by a lower segment (14A.2).

7. Foldable solar installation (1) according to one of claims 3 to 6, characterized in that said installation further comprises at least one lateral portion (16) supporting a ballast (16A), each of said portions being associated with one of the photovoltaic panels (11) and attached to the beam (13A) of the corresponding hinge (13) and / or to the longitudinal portion (14A) of the support (14) corresponding to said panel, the lateral portion (16) being configured to be positioned against the ground and under the photovoltaic panel (11).

8. Foldable solar installation (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that, when the installation is in the unfolded position and resting on two of the lateral segments (14A.1), storage devices extend transversely between the longitudinal portions (14A) of the supports (14) and substantially perpendicular to the ground, said devices being configured to receive planters.

9. Foldable solar installation (1) according to one of claims 5 to 8, characterized in that a locking device is associated with each hinge (13) and each joint (14C), each of said devices being configured to keep said hinges (13) and joints (14C) open or closed depending on the position of the installation (1).

10. Foldable solar installation (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one of the supports (14) further comprises an internal portion (14B) supporting the electrical or electronic devices (15) and positioned in the central cavity of the longitudinal portion (14A), said internal portion (14B) being configured to be folded down simultaneously with the longitudinal portion (14A).

11. Foldable solar installation (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the electrical and / or electronic devices (15) of said installation comprise: - at least one micro-inverter (15A), - at least one cable including connection cables (15B) and a power cable configured to transmit electrical energy to an electrical network, and - a microcontroller mounted on the power cable and configured to exchange data.

12. Foldable solar installation (1) according to claim 11, characterized in that the connection cables (15B) connecting each of the photovoltaic panels (11) to the micro-inverter (15A) are positioned close to each of the frames (12) of said panels.

13. Foldable solar installation (1) according to one of claims 6 to 12, characterized in that the lower segment (14A.2) of each longitudinal portion (14A) is configured to extend along an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis (x) of the corresponding frame (12), the lower segments (14A.2) of the supports (14) being configured to possibly serve as support when the installation is in the unfolded position.

14. Method for mounting a solar installation (1) according to one of claims 9 to 12, said method comprising the following steps: - opening the photovoltaic panels (11) of said installation, then blocking said open panels (11), - raising each longitudinal portion (14A) of the corresponding photovoltaic panel (11), then blocking said raised portions, - turning over the installation (1) to position it resting on the supports (14), then - connecting the installation (1) to a socket on the electrical network.

15. Mounting method according to claim 14, characterized in that the blocking of the open panels (11) and the blocking of the raised longitudinal portions (14A) is achieved using the locking devices of the hinges (13) and joints (14C).

16. Mounting method according to one of claims 14 or 15, characterized in that the method comprises an additional step of fixing a lateral portion (16) to the longitudinal portion (14A) of the support (14) and / or to the beam (13A) of the corresponding hinge (13) of at least one of the photovoltaic panels (11), then positioning the ballast (16A) on said lateral portion.

17. Mounting method according to one of claims 14 to 16, characterized in that, when the solar installation (1) is in the unfolded position: - the two frames (12) supporting the photovoltaic panels (11) are joined by their inner edges (12C) thanks to at least one hinge (13), - the longitudinal portions (14A) of the installation (1) are positioned at right angles to a plane formed by said panels, the locking devices of the hinges (13) and the joints (14C) helping to maintain the installation (1) in the unfolded position.

18. Mounting method according to one of claims 14 to 16, characterized in that, when the installation (1) is in the folded position: - the two frames (12) and the corresponding photovoltaic panels (11) are positioned one above the other, - each longitudinal portion (14A) is folded between the beams (13A) of the hinges (13) and against the corresponding photovoltaic panel (11), so as to reduce the size of said installation.

19. Use of a solar installation (1) according to claim 13, as a coffee table, the photovoltaic panels (11) of the installation (1) being positioned horizontally and parallel to the ground, the installation (1) being configured to rest on the lower segments (14A.2) of the two supports (14) of said installation.

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