Device for fixing photovoltaic modules

Abstract

Device (1) for fixing photovoltaic modules, comprising a first profile (3) and a second profile (4) cooperating with the first profile (3), characterized in that- the first profile (3) has a generally U-shaped section and comprises a core (31), two so-called vertical wings (32, 33) opposite each other, parallel and facing each other, extending perpendicularly from the core, and two so-called support edges (30) of opposite direction extending perpendicularly from the vertical wings (32, 33) opposite the core (31) and facing outwards;- the second profile (4) has a generally U-shaped section and comprises a core (41), two opposite wings (42, 43) parallel and facing each other, and two so-called clamping edges (40) of opposite direction and extending perpendicularly from the wings (42, 43) of said second profile opposite of the soul (41) and turned outwards;- the second profile (4) is housed in the opening of the U of the first profile (3) so that the clamping edges (40) of the second profile are spaced from the support edges (30) of the first profile, and the device comprises an actuation system which mechanically connects the second profile (4) to the first profile (3);- the actuation system comprising a clamping member, and being capable, when the clamping member is actuated, of making said second profile (4) movable in longitudinal translation along the longitudinal direction of the first profile and concomitantly in so-called vertical translation, in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. FIG. 2;

Description

Title of the invention: Device for fixing photovoltaic modules

[0001] The invention relates to a device for fixing photovoltaic modules.

[0002] The invention will be more particularly described with regard to a device which is fixed on a support structure for solar fields, but not limited thereto. The device of the invention applies to any structure on which photovoltaic modules are fixed, including roofs.

[0003] Many support devices for photovoltaic modules exist on the market, comprising profiles of various shapes (which are often nevertheless Omega-shaped) on which the photovoltaic modules rest, and fixing clips are screwed to the profiles by being inserted between two modules and positioned astride to clamp the edges and the top of the two modules. Implementation is often complex, is above all tedious and generates a lot of time due to the need to correctly position and wedge the modules before fixing them and to have to use a multitude of fixing clips to be mounted and bolted. For example, an area of ​​120 m2 which represents 60 modules (of 2 m by 1 m) requires the installation of nearly 130 clips with their associated bolts, which represents an installation time of approximately six hours for one worker or three hours for two workers. In addition, these current devices do not facilitate maintenance.Currently, for a solar field, changing a module due to a malfunction requires climbing on it to unscrew the fixing clips; this difficult maneuver presents risks of falling for the installer.

[0004] Among the existing devices, we can cite patent application EP3409549, the device described in which comprises a first profile having a general Omega shape with an upper support core for two modules side by side and a central rib integral with the core projecting upwards and whose lateral faces constitute abutment surfaces for the edges of the modules, and a second profile forming a glazing bead which straddles the rib of the first profile and the upper faces of the modules. However, this fixing requires numerous screws and it is necessary to mount on the modules when it comes to dismantling them, including for a solar field application.

[0005] The invention therefore aims to propose a device for fixing photovoltaic modules which is simple and quick to implement, easy to maintain, while being resistant to the strongest climatic stresses.

[0006] According to the invention, the device for fixing photovoltaic modules (intended for a concomitant straddle fixing of at least two first contiguous modules arranged on either side of the device), comprises a first profile (intended to form the supporting structure of the photovoltaic modules) and a second profile cooperating with the first profile (the second profile being intended to come and straddle against the upper faces of the modules), and is characterized in that - the first profile (intended to constitute a chevron-type element when the modules are fixed in landscape mode or to constitute a purlin-type element when the modules are fixed in portrait mode;the first profile is intended to be fixed to the support structure, in particular to a part of the support structure such as a purlin or a rafter) has a generally U-shaped section (with the opening of the U facing away from the ground or the support structure in the mounted position of the device) and comprises a web (intended to be fixed to the support structure), two so-called vertical wings, parallel and facing each other, extending perpendicularly from the web, and two so-called support edges, of opposite direction extending perpendicularly from the vertical wings opposite the web (from the free end of the wings) and facing the outside of said first profile (each of the support edges forming a bearing surface for a module arranged on one side of the first profile); ; - the second profile has a generally U-shaped section (with the opening of the U facing away from the ground or the support structure in the mounted position of the device) and comprises a core, two opposite parallel and facing wings, and two so-called clamping edges, of opposite direction and extending perpendicularly from the wings of said second profile opposite the core (from the free end of the wings) and facing outwards of said second profile (each of the clamping edges being intended to clamp at right angles the edge and the edge of the upper face of a module); - the second profile is housed in the U-shaped opening of the first profile so that the clamping edges of the second profile are spaced (in the vertical direction) from the support edges of the first profile (and the clamping edges are parallel and opposite the support edges in the mounted and clamped position of photovoltaic modules), and the device comprises an actuation system which mechanically connects the second profile to the first profile; - the actuating system comprising a clamping member, and being capable, when the clamping member is actuated, of making said second profile movable in longitudinal translation along the longitudinal direction of the first profile and concomitantly in so-called vertical translation, in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (to bring the clamping edges closer to or further apart from the support edges both in a vertical plane and in a plane perpendicular to the vertical plane, a plane parallel to the clamping edges).

[0007] The mobility of the second profile relative to the first profile causes the clamping edges to move closer together (when the clamping member is tightened) (or further apart when loosened) towards the support edges. When the modules are arranged on the support edges, the movement of the clamping edges causes them to be positioned in abutment against the upper face of the modules, the tightening of the actuating member allowing the clamping edges to be tightened / pinched against the modules.

[0008] Thus, the device of the invention provides very easy and rapid installation and maintenance with very few parts. Indeed, the installer saves time and simplicity because there are far fewer fixing parts, the modules are simply placed on the support edges of the first profile and the installer only has to tighten (the single) actuating member to wedge the modules by the clamping edges of the second profile. The installer does not need to look for a placement mark or position himself above each module to fix a multiplicity of straddle clips or a multiplicity of screws on a straddle profile; he only has to place the modules on the support edges of the first profile, bringing them as he wishes directly vertically or sideways, then he only has to tighten the single clamping member, arranged in particular at the end of the first profile, to tighten and fix all the modules..

[0009] In comparison with the example of the prior art cited in the preamble to this description, a surface of 60 modules (2 m by 1 m) requires only about fifteen minutes of installation by two workers and about twenty fixing screws in total (instead of more than a hundred staples and associated screws), or even, for this same surface, only ten fixing screws are used for a landscape installation of the modules. In addition, the device with its steel profiles is strong and applies a force, not localized as in the prior art by parts which are also made of aluminum, but a clamping force over the entire length of the modules. The device is robust and withstands cyclonic winds, or even winds of 320 km / h and beyond depending on the materials used. The length of the devices can vary; for example, it is around 6 m to accommodate up to three or four photovoltaic modules on each side.Furthermore, the device allows the modules to be arranged in both portrait and landscape mode, with the profiles being able to be arranged in both rafter and purlin fashion.

[0010] In the remainder of the description, the term "vertical" means the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the profiles. The term "height", the qualifiers "upper", "lower", "top" and "bottom" of an element of the device are used in the context of a normal installation of the device on a support structure for a solar field or a roof.

[0011] According to one feature, the second profile has wings which are flexible and comprises on each of its wings (in particular over the entire length of the profile), symmetrically and at a distance from the clamping edges, a rib projecting towards the outside of said second profile, preferably, each rib having a substantially triangular section. By "flexible" is meant the fact that the wings of the second profile can be brought together when pressure is exerted on them, which corresponds to a so-called constrained position as opposed to a rest position, or return to their rest position when the pressure is released. The ribs serve as stops in cooperation with the interior of the first profile and in the upper opening plane of said first profile (against the edge of the support edges) to constrain the wings of the second profile and bend them in an inclined manner so that they are brought together.In the constrained position of the wings of the second profile, these are joined or substantially joined. In this constrained position, from one rafter to the other or from one purlin to the other, that is to say between two consecutive devices of the invention, the distance separating a clamping return of a device from the clamping return of the adjacent device is greater than the width of a photovoltaic module, which allows easy installation of the device, in particular by bringing it directly vertical, in line with the support edges.

[0012] According to one characteristic, in the so-called constraint position of the wings of the second profile, the clamping edges of the second profile are arranged side by side, being offset in line with the opening of the U of the first profile and no longer facing the support edges.

[0013] According to one characteristic, the first profile has a spacing of its vertical wings, which is narrowed at the level of the plane of the support edges (at the level of the upper opening plane of said profile), the narrowing being provided by an inwardly converging inclination of the vertical wings at their so-called upper end. In particular, the inclination is of inverse profile and symmetrical with respect to the vertical of the so-called upper part. The ribs abut against the vertical wings of the first profile and follow their profile, the upper end of which is narrowed then widens towards the bottom of the profile, which separates the wings of the second profile when the latter descends into the first profile and brings them together when it rises.

[0014] According to one characteristic, the actuation system comprises a connecting shaft (passing through the interior of the second profile) fixed integrally to the wings of the second profile and a connecting piece which connects the connecting shaft to the clamping member (to drive said second profile in mobility).

[0015] According to one characteristic, the second profile comprises at least one pair of oblong holes facing each other on each of its wings (each wing comprises at least one oblong hole facing an oblong hole on the other wing), each oblong hole being inclined relative to the longitudinal axis of the second profile from a so-called lower end to an opposite so-called upper end, the lower end of the oblong hole being on the side of the clamping member, and in that the device comprises at least one guide member such as a guide axis which is integral with the two vertical wings of the first profile and which is capable of sliding in the pair of oblong holes of the second profile (when the clamping member is actuated).

[0016] According to one characteristic, the fixing device comprises a locking key which locks the guide member in position in the clamped position of the clamping member (in particular locks the guide member in position in its high position, i.e. when the second profile is housed in the first profile beyond its ribs, the wings of the second profile being in their rest position and the clamping edges being clamped / pinched against the photovoltaic modules).

[0017] According to one characteristic, the clamping member is a screw with a threaded rod which comprises a clamping head and an opposite end, said end being integral with the connecting part of the actuation system and the clamping head is capable of coming to bear in its clamped position against a stop surface integral with a distal end of the first profile.

[0018] According to one characteristic, the clamping member is unique and is arranged at a distal end of the first profile, in particular by cooperating in the clamped position with a stop surface extending in a plane transverse to the longitudinal direction of the first profile and at a distal end of the first profile.

[0019] The invention also relates to a method for implementing the aforementioned fixing device, for fixing several photovoltaic modules along two sides of the device, the method being characterized in that it comprises the following steps (the device having been previously fixed against a framework / support structure, in particular via the fixing of the core of the first profile against the framework): - the clamping member is loosened so that the second profile housed in the first profile is in a position (called high) in which the clamping edges at a distance from the support edges are offset towards the inside of the second profile and the first profile and offset relative to the vertical (relative to the right) of the so-called inner end of the support edges, providing a completely free space above the support edges; - the installer places at least one photovoltaic module on each support edge, in particular by being able to place it directly in a vertical direction by an up and down movement; - the installer can place several photovoltaic modules along the device; - the installer positions himself at the level of the clamping member, in particular the clamping member being arranged at a distal end of the first profile (and therefore of the device and at the lowest point of the slope of the device if the modules are arranged in portrait mode, the lowest modules being held in a known manner by usual stop means), and tightens the clamping member which translates the second profile causes the clamping edges to be brought back towards the support edges, both by moving the clamping edges apart from each other and by bringing together (in the vertical direction) the clamping edges towards the support edges; - the installer tightens the clamping member fully, which presses the clamping edges squarely against the photovoltaic modules (both on the edge of the upper face of the modules and against their edge; thus locking and fixing the modules).

[0020] Of course, to fix aligned modules, it will be necessary to arrange two spaced and parallel devices which will allow the opposite edges of each of the modules to be fixed.

[0021] The present invention is now described using examples which are solely illustrative and in no way limitative of the scope of the invention, and from the attached illustrations, in which: - [Fig.l] is a schematic view in bird's eye perspective of a fixing of several photovoltaic modules on a support structure via fixing devices according to the invention; - [Fig.2] represents a schematic cross-sectional view of a fixing device of [Fig.l] according to an exemplary embodiment, the photovoltaic modules being in the supported position but not yet tightened and therefore not completely fixed. - [Fig.3] corresponds to the view of [Fig.2] in the clamped and fixed position of the photovoltaic modules. - [Fig.4] represents an exploded perspective view of the first profile and the second profile of the fixing device of the invention. - [Fig.5] is a front view of the section of the first profile. - [Fig.6] is a front view of the section of the second profile. - [Fig.7] illustrates a schematic side view of an exemplary embodiment of the connecting piece and the clamping member coupled to the connecting piece of the fixing device of the invention, the connecting piece being intended to connect the first and second profiles. - [Fig.8] is a partial top view of the fixing device of [Fig.2], showing the connecting piece connecting the first and second profiles and the coupled clamping member. - [Fig.9] is a partial view in longitudinal and median section of the fixing device of [Fig.2] at the level of the connecting axis of the connecting piece and optionally showing a locking key in its unlocked position. - [Fig. 10] is a partial view in longitudinal section of the fixing device of [Fig.3] in correspondence with [Fig.9] but in the locked position of the locking key. - [Fig.l 1] is a front view of the distal end of two spaced devices for mounting at least one photovoltaic module, distal end where the clamping member is located, this view corresponding to an intermediate position of the second profile between the constraint position of [Fig.2] and the rest and clamping position of [Fig.3]. [Fig.l 1] is also partially in section to precisely see the second profile housed in the first profile.

[0022] The device 1 of the invention illustrated in the figures allows the mounting of photovoltaic modules 2A, 2B, etc. on a support structure S, for example on a support structure for a solar field. The device 1 could also be installed on another support structure such as a frame of an industrial or traditional roof.

[0023] The device 1 is used in the direction of the slope. The device 1 is intended to form a rafter for supporting the photovoltaic modules. Several devices 1 will be spaced apart by the width of the photovoltaic modules and will constitute the support structure for said modules.

[0024] The photovoltaic modules are generally rectangular. They are assembled in "portrait" mode, that is to say that their long sides are parallel to the slope of the support structure. They can alternatively be arranged in "landscape" mode, their long sides being transverse to the slope of the support structure and parallel to the purlins of the frame. The profiles described below, constituting the device 1, will be arranged in the direction of the greatest length of the photovoltaic modules.

[0025] The device 1 extends longitudinally and has two longitudinal sides 10 and 11 at the level of each of which are supported and fixed a module or several modules then abutted in the longitudinal direction.

[0026] The purpose of the device 1 is to fix at least two modules 2A and 2B at the same time, which are respectively arranged on its two sides 10 and 11. Between two spaced fixing devices 1, at least one photovoltaic module 2A is mounted (figures 1 and 11). [Fig.l] shows a plurality of modules in portrait mode including two consecutive modules 2A and 2C as well as 2B and 2D according to the length of the fixing devices 1 (along the slope) and on each of the sides 10 and 11.

[0027] The device 1 has a length which can be adapted by cutting one of its ends, namely cutting the end of its two profiles.

[0028] The device 1 has a length which can for example reach 6 m, in order to arrange and fix four modules of 1.5 m in length or three modules of 2 m, and this on each side of the device. The device 1 extends and clamps the photovoltaic modules continuously along their entire length.

[0029] The device 1 ([Fig.2]) comprises a first profile 3, a second profile 4 and a first mechanical connection system 5A ([Fig.8]) between the second profile 4 and the first profile 3 and a second mechanical connection system 5B between the second profile 4 and the first profile 3. The first connection system 5A, hereinafter referred to as the “actuating system”, comprises a clamping actuating member 6 capable of making the second profile 4 movable relative to the first profile 3. The second connection system 5B, hereinafter referred to as the “guiding system”, comprises at least one guiding member 5' facilitating the mobility of the second profile 4 relative to the first profile 3.

[0030] The second profile 4 is housed in the first profile 3 and has a portion which protrudes from the first profile. The second profile 4 is capable of being movable relative to the first profile 3 in the longitudinal direction of the profile and concomitantly in vertical translation, that is to say in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the first profile 3. The second profile 4 is capable of adopting a so-called high position and a so-called low position.

[0031] Furthermore, the first profile 3 comprises support edges 30 on which the modules are intended to rest by their so-called lower face 20, and the second profile 4 comprises clamping edges 40 which are intended to press against and clamp the modules at the level of their so-called upper face 21 and their edge 22. In particular, the second profile 4 with its clamping edges clamps and blocks the modules 2A and 2B at right angles (against the frame 23 of the modules).

[0032] Advantageously, the second profile 3 is flexible at its wings. The flexibility and mobility of the second profile 3 allow the clamping edges 40 to adopt: - a so-called retracted position ([Fig.2]) so that they are arranged in a plane parallel to the support edges 30 and being offset towards the inside of the second profile 4 and offset relative to the vertical of said support edges 30, which allows the installer to place the modules 2A and 2B on the support edges 30 without worrying about the first profile which is therefore in no way a hindrance, the modules being able to be brought in any direction and in particular being brought in a vertical direction, from top to bottom. The retracted position of the clamping edges 40 corresponds to the high position of the second profile 4; - a so-called clamping position ([Fig.3]) so that they are arranged parallel to the support edges 40 and at a distance and opposite each other, to clamp the upper face of the modules. The clamping position of the clamping edges 40 corresponds to the lower position of the second profile 4.

[0033] More particularly, the first profile 3 ([Fig.5]) has a general U-shape. In the installed position on the support structure, the first profile has the opening of the U facing upwards (away from the support structure or away from the ground). The first profile 3 has a core 31, two vertical wings 32 and 33 opposite, parallel and facing, and the two support edges 30. The first profile 3 (U-shaped) is open opposite the core 31. The two support edges 30 are integral with the upper free end of the two respective vertical wings 32 and 33, opposite the core 31 and are in opposite directions to each other (directed towards the outside of the profile). Each support edge 30 has a surface perpendicular to the associated wing (therefore parallel to the core 31). Preferably, each support edge 30 has a return 30' folded perpendicularly towards the core 31 to increase the rigidity of the support edge 30 intended to carry the modules. The first profile 3 has in particular a thickness between 1.5 mm and 2.5 mm depending on the dimensional and climatic constraints. The first profile 3 is preferably made of galvanized steel.

[0034] Each vertical wing 32 and 33 preferably comprises at least one orifice 34, preferably two orifices spaced along the length depending on the length of the profile, to fix there by bolting an axis 5' forming the guide member of the guide system 5B as will be seen later, which crosses the internal width of the first profile 3 and the internal width of the second profile 4.

[0035] Furthermore, the width of the U of the first profile 3 (distance separating the vertical wings 32 and 33) is narrowed at the upper end 35. The narrowed end 35 is obtained by a convergent inclination of the vertical wings 32 and 33 towards each other (relative to the general plane of the wings) (from a proximal part) to the plane of the support edges 30. The width of the first profile 3 at the plane of the support edges 30 is less than the width of the core 31.

[0036] The second profile 4 ([Fig.6]) has a general U-shape. It comprises a core 41 and two wings 42 and 43 secured to the core 41 and spaced apart, parallel and facing each other, as well as the two clamping edges 40 at the free end of the two respective wings, opposite the core 41, and are in opposite directions to each other (directed towards the outside of the profile). Each of the two wings 42 and 43 is ribbed with a longitudinal rib 44 projecting towards the outside of the profile. The rib 44 is arranged at a distance from the clamping edge 40, preferably substantially halfway between the core 41 and the clamping edge 40. Preferably, the rib 44 is pointed; it has a substantially triangular section. The rib 44 has a lateral end surface 45 forming a stop. The inclination of the profile of the rib 44 of the second profile can correspond substantially to the inverse inclination (in vertical symmetry) of the inclined end 35 of the first profile.Furthermore, the distance (height) separating the clamping edges 40 from the rib 44 is adapted to the thickness of a photovoltaic module concerned so that the clamping edges 40 can come into contact with the modules, in the lower position of the second profile 4.

[0037] The second profile 4 has its wings 42 and 43 which are flexible. The wings 42 and 43 have elasticity. They are flexible due to the thickness of their material constituent. The wings 42 and 43 of the second profile 4 have a thickness advantageously between 0.5 mm and 0.8 mm. The second profile 4 is metallic; it is preferably made of galvanized steel.

[0038] The abutment surfaces 45 of the two ribs 44 of the second profile cooperate with the vertical wings 32 and 33 of the first profile between the narrowed end 35 of the vertical wings 32 and 33 and the proximal part of the vertical wings of greater width. The abutment of the ribs 44 between two surfaces that are the vertical wings 32 and 33 of the first profile which are separated by a width smaller (for the narrowed end of the first profile) or larger (for the proximal part of the first profile) than that separating the ribs 44, causes the ribs 44 to be compressed or not. Thus, in the so-called high position of the second profile 4, when the ribs 44 are in abutment against the vertical wings 32 and 33 at the narrowed end 35 and the plane of the support edges 30 ([Fig. 2]), the wings 42 and 43 of the second profile are then constrained and are brought closer together so as to put the clamping edges 40 in an offset position.The offset position of the clamping edges 40 of the second profile allows the receiving space above the support edges 30 of the first profile to be left free to bring and arrange the photovoltaic modules on said support edges without any barrier. When the second profile 4 is translated to be introduced further inwards and downwards (towards the core 31) of the first profile 3, the ribs 44, still in abutment against the vertical wings 32 and 33 of the narrowed end 35, follow by guidance the inclined profile which widens towards the bottom of said vertical wings, which gradually generates less compression on the ribs ([Fig. 11]) and consequently a relaxation of the wings 42 and 43 which move away from each other. Once the ribs 44 of the second profile are positioned beyond the narrowed end 35 of the vertical wings 32 and 33 of the first profile ([Fig.3]), they are no longer constrained, which positions the wings 42 and 43 of the second profile in their rest position and the clamping edges 40 in their clamping position.

[0039] When the photovoltaic modules have to be removed (for example for maintenance), the second profile 4 is made mobile by being raised (from its low position to its high position) relative to the inside of the first profile 3, the profile of the upper end 35 being narrowed, this exerts pressure against the ribs 44 which causes the wings 42 and 43 to fold by tilting them against each other, then releasing the clamping edges 40 towards the opposite of the photovoltaic modules 2A and 2B; the photovoltaic modules 2A and 2B can then be extracted directly vertically without adjacent modules being able to get in the way.

[0040] The mobility of the second profile 4 is made possible via the actuation system 5A and the clamping actuation member 6 (Figures 7 and 8). The translational movements of the second profile 4 are also correctly carried out thanks to the guide system 5B. The clamping actuating member 6 is unique and is arranged at a distal end 36 of the first profile 3, being in its fully clamped position in abutment against an abutment surface 7 perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the first profile 3 and closing the distal end 36 of said first profile. The first profile 3 being, by its manufacture, open at its distal end 36, a closing part is attached fixed against said distal end 36 and constitutes the abutment surface 7. Preferably, this closing part is part of the actuating system 5A. Preferably, this closing part 7 is removably attached against the distal end 36 of the first profile 3; the part 7 ([Fig. 7] and [Fig.8]) is for example U-shaped to cover the distal end 36 and the wings 32 and 33 of the first profile 3 and is fixed by a bolted through axis 71 passing through through holes 70 arranged in the upper part for example and in a plane distinct from the plane containing the clamping member 6. .

[0041] The actuation system 5A ([Fig.7] and [Fig.8]) comprises a connecting shaft 50 which is intended to pass through the width of the second profile 4 while being fixedly coupled to it. The connecting shaft 50 is fixedly fixed to the second profile 4 through opposite orifices 42' and 43' of the respective wings 42 and 43. The connecting shaft 50 is for example a smooth rod threaded at its ends. The fixing is done for example by a keying system.

[0042] In addition, for the guide system 5B, each of the wings 42 and 43 of the second profile comprises at least one oblong hole 46 opposite the oblong hole of the other wing. The oblong holes 46 accommodate the guide member 5' which is in the form of a guide axis. The guide pin 5' passes through the oblong holes 46 and projects beyond the wings 42 and 43 of the second profile 4 and is fixed by its two terminations to the vertical wings 32 and 33 of the first profile 3. For the fixing of the guide pin 5', the first profile 3 has a hole 34 in each vertical wing 32 and 33 so that the terminations of the guide pin 5' pass through these holes 34 and are bolted. The oblong shape of the holes 46 allows the mobility of the guide pin 5' along the holes and therefore the mobility of the second profile 4. The oblong holes 46 have an oblique direction relative to the vertical direction of the wings (or relative to the longitudinal direction).The obliqueness is such that the lowest point is directed towards the side where the clamping actuating member 6 is located. The length of the oblong holes 46 is adapted to the vertical displacement stroke of the second profile 4 from its high position to its low position in order to clamp the photovoltaic modules. The position of the oblong holes 46 is independent of the position and length of the photovoltaic modules and depends on the relative rigidity of the profiles 3 and 4. It will in particular be approximately one meter. The actuation system 5A further comprises a connecting piece 51 which connects the connecting axis 50 to the clamping member 6 and which is arranged inside. of the first profile 3 and inside the second profile 4. This connecting piece 51 is for example a U-shaped plate which has a core 52 and two wings 53; the wings 53 support the connecting axis 50 via through bores 54 and the core 52 is integral (immovably) with an end 60 of the clamping member 6, opposite the distal end 36 of the first profile 3.

[0043] The clamping member 6 is in particular a screw with a threaded rod, having the termination 60 and an opposite clamping head 61. The termination 60 passes through the core 52 of the connecting piece 51. A nut 62 is screwed onto the termination 60 of the threaded rod 6 and is welded to the core 52 of the connecting piece 51. The rod of the clamping member or screw 6 passes through the stop surface 7. The clamping head 61 of the clamping member 6 is outside the first profile 3 to be accessible. In addition, the rod 6 comprises a lock nut 63 welded to the rod and arranged on the other side of the stop surface 7, inside the first profile 3. The lock nut 63 is opposite the clamping head with respect to the stop surface 7. In addition, a clearance is provided between the lock nut 63 and the stop surface 7 so as to allow pivoting in a vertical plane of the threaded rod 6 and the connecting piece 51 during the vertical translation of the second profile 4.The clamping head 61 is capable of being tightened or loosened, which moves the rod 6 towards the distal end 36 of the first profile 3 or towards the opposite, and drives, following and in translation in the longitudinal direction of the first profile, the connecting piece 51 and therefore the connecting axis 50 connected to the second profile 4. In addition, the guide axis 5' or each of the guide axes 5' if there are several (depending on the length of the profiles) slides in the or each of the pairs of oblong holes 46 of the second profile which causes a perfect movement of the second profile 4 both in longitudinal translation and in vertical translation. Thus, in the fully loosened position of the clamping member 6, the guide axis 5' is located at the bottom of the oblong holes 46 ([Fig.9]), the second profile 4 having its wings 42 and 43 as well as its clamping edges 40 in the close position ([Fig.2]), leaving the space free above the support edges 30.In the fully clamped position of the clamping member 6, the head 61 of the clamping member abutting against the abutment surface 7, the guide axis 5' is located towards the top of the oblong holes 46 ([Fig. 10]), the second profile 4 having its wings 42 and 43 in the rest position or completely spread apart ([Fig. 3]) like its clamping edges 40 which are then in abutment against the photovoltaic modules 2A and 2B by pinching them.

[0044] Finally, in particular with regard to figures 8 and 9, the device 1 preferably comprises a locking key 8 which cooperates with a guide axis 5' to lock it in position (when it is in the high position in the oblong holes 46) when the clamping member 6 is completely tightened and the clamping edges 40 are therefore in the position for pinching the photovoltaic modules, thus preventing a untimely placement of the guide axis 5' and loosening of the photovoltaic modules 2A and 2B, for example in the event of strong or even cyclonic wind which can produce vibrations in the support structure of the photovoltaic modules. The locking key 8 is placed inside the second profile 4 and is fixed and pivotally articulated around an axis 80 located towards the core 31 of the second profile 4, while encompassing the member or the guide axis 5' to be driven at the same time as the passage from the low position to the high position of the second profile and vice versa. The axis 80 of the locking key 8 is for example fixed by passing through holes 47 ([Fig.4]) arranged in the wings 42 and 43 of the second profile, and by coming into abutment against the internal sides of the vertical wings 32 and 33 of the first profile 3 below the guide axis 5'.

[0045] The implementation of the device 1 is as follows. At least two first profiles 3 are fixed, being spaced apart by the width of a photovoltaic module such as 2A ([Fig.l 1]), to the support structure S, in particular via the fixing of the core 31 of said first profile. The clamping member 6 is loosened so that the second profile 4 housed in the first profile 3 is in its high position; the clamping edges 40 are then offset towards the inside of the second profile 4 and of the first profile 3 and offset relative to the vertical (relative to the right) of the so-called inner end of the support edges 30, providing a completely free space above the support edges 30 ([Fig.2]). The installer then places at least one photovoltaic module 2A, 2B on each support edge 30, in particular by being able to place it directly in a vertical direction using an up-and-down movement. The installer places several photovoltaic modules, 2A, 2C, etc., along the first profile 3. Finally, the installer positions himself at the level of the clamping member 6, at the distal end 36 of the first profile 3 and tightens the clamping member 6 to translate the second profile 4; the ribs 44 of the second profile 4 which abut against the vertical wings 32 and 33 of the first profile 3, are guided as the translation progresses by the profile of the narrowed end 35 of the first profile (which flares downwards). By following the profile of the end 35 which flares downwards, the ribs 44 are less and less constrained and the wings 42 and 43 of the second profile 4 which were brought together against each other gradually move apart ([Fig. 11]) while bringing the clamping edges 40 towards the support edges 30. The installer tightens the clamping member 6 fully which presses by pinching ([Fig.3]) the clamping edges 40 at right angles against the photovoltaic modules, both on the upper face of the modules and against their edge; thus blocking and fixing the modules.

Claims

Claims

1. Device (1) for fixing photovoltaic modules, comprising a first profile (3) and a second profile (4) cooperating with the first profile (3), characterized in that - the first profile (3) has a generally U-shaped section and comprises a core (31), two so-called vertical wings (32, 33) opposite each other, parallel and facing each other, extending perpendicularly from the core, and two so-called support edges (30) of opposite direction extending perpendicularly from the vertical wings (32, 33) opposite the core (31) and facing outwards; - the second profile (4) has a generally U-shaped section and comprises a core (41), two opposite wings (42, 43) parallel and facing each other, and two so-called clamping edges (40) of opposite direction and extending perpendicularly from the wings (42, 43) of said second profile opposite the core (41) and facing outwards;- the second profile (4) is housed in the opening of the U of the first profile (3) so that the clamping edges (40) of the second profile are spaced from the support edges (30) of the first profile, and the device comprises an actuation system (5A) which mechanically connects the second profile (4) to the first profile (3); - the actuation system (5A) comprising a clamping member (6), and being capable, when the clamping member (6) is actuated, of making said second profile (4) movable in longitudinal translation along the longitudinal direction of the first profile and concomitantly in so-called vertical translation, in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.;

2. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the second profile (4) has its wings (42, 43) which are flexible and comprises on each of its wings, symmetrically and at a distance from the clamping edges, a rib (44) projecting towards the outside of said second profile, preferably, each rib (44) having a substantially triangular section.

3. Device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that, in the so-called constraint position of the wings (42, 43) of the second profile (4), the clamping edges (40) of the second profile are arranged side by side, being offset in line with the opening of the U of the first profile and no longer facing the support edges (30).

4. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first profile (3) has a spacing of its vertical wings (32, 33), which is narrowed at the plane of the support edges (30), the narrowing being provided by a converging inward inclination of the vertical wings at their so-called upper end (35).

5. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second profile (4) comprises at least one pair of oblong holes (46) facing each other on each of its wings (42, 43), each oblong hole (46) being inclined relative to the longitudinal axis of the second profile from a so-called lower end to an opposite so-called upper end, the lower end of the oblong hole (46) being on the side of the clamping member (6), and in that the device comprises at least one guide member (5') such as a guide axis which is integral with the two vertical wings (32, 33) of the first profile (3) and which is capable of sliding in the pair of oblong holes (46) of the second profile.

6. Device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that it comprises a locking key (8) which locks the guide member (5') in position in the clamped position of the clamping member (6).

7. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuation system (5A) comprises a connecting axis (50) fixed integrally to the wings (42, 43) of the second profile and a connecting piece (51) which connects the connecting axis (50) to the clamping member (6).

8. Device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the clamping member (6) is a screw with a threaded rod which comprises a clamping head (61) and an opposite end (60), said end (60) being integral with the connecting part (51) of the actuation system (5A) and the clamping head (61) being able to come to bear in its clamped position against a stop surface (7) integral with a distal end (36) of the first profile (3).

9. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the clamping member (6) is single and is arranged at a distal end (36) of the first profile (3), in particular by cooperating in the clamped position with a stop surface (7) extending in a plane transverse to the longitudinal direction of the first profile and at a distal end of the first profile.

10. Method of implementing the device according to any one of the re- preceding claims for fixing several photovoltaic modules (2A, 2C; 2B, 2D) along two sides (10, 11) of the device, characterized in that it comprises the following steps: - the clamping member (6) is loosened so that the second profile (4) housed in the first profile (3) is in a position in which the clamping flanges (40) at a distance from the support flanges (30) are offset towards the inside of the second profile and the first profile and offset relative to the vertical of the so-called inner end of the support flanges, providing a completely free space above the support flanges; - the installer places at least one photovoltaic module on each support edge (30), in particular by being able to place it directly in a vertical direction by an up-and-down movement; - the installer can place several photovoltaic modules along the device; - the installer positions himself at the clamping member (6), in particular the clamping member being arranged at a distal end (36) of the first profile, and clamps the clamping member (6) which translates the second profile (4) and brings the clamping edges (40) towards the support edges (30), both by moving the clamping edges apart from each other and by bringing them closer towards the support edges; - the installer tightens the clamping member (6) fully, which clamps the clamping edges (40) at right angles against the photovoltaic modules.

Images