STRUCTURE FOR FIXING A PANEL ON A BUILDING, CLADDING AND FIXING METHOD

Abstract

A structure for attaching a panel (12) to a building (14), the structure (10) comprising a lower rail (16) and an upper rail (18) for mounting on the building (14), a rear rail for attaching to the panel (12), a lower support configured to receive and cooperate with the lower rail (16), and an upper hook assembly comprising a movable hook adapted to bear against an upper profile of the upper rail (18) and a locking element adapted to bear against the upper profile of the upper rail (18). Cladding of a building comprising a plurality of panels (12) attached to the building (14) by means of the structure. Method of attaching a panel (12) to a building (14) by means of the structure. Figure for the abstract: Fig. 1

Description

Title of the invention: STRUCTURE FOR FIXING A PANEL ON A BUILDING, CLADDING AND FIXING METHOD technical field

[0001] This exposition relates to a structure for fixing a panel to a building, for example, a structure for fixing a photovoltaic panel to a building. This exposition also relates to a method for fixing a panel to a building. Previous technique

[0002] Systems for fixing a panel, for example a photovoltaic panel, to a building, in particular to the facade of the building, are known.

[0003] These systems often have the disadvantage of not allowing easy fixing of the panel and / or not allowing precise alignment of the panels with each other and / or with the building.

[0004] Indeed, the adjustment and / or fixing devices may not be easily accessible and / or allow precise adjustment of the panel.

[0005] Known systems may also require the use of a large number of tools and / or complex assembly steps. Description of the invention

[0006] The present exposition aims to remedy at least some of these drawbacks.

[0007] To this end, the present description relates to a structure for fixing a panel to a building, for example a building facade, the structure comprising: - a lower rail and an upper rail intended to be mounted parallel to each other on the building, the lower rail comprising a lower base with a lower profile generally shaped like an "L" forming a lower channel, and the upper rail comprising an upper base with an upper profile generally shaped like an "L" forming an upper channel, - a rear rail intended to be fixed to the panel and to be removably fixed to the lower and upper rails, the rear rail being capable of moving in translation along the lower and upper rails, - a lower support configured to be received in the lower channel and to cooperate in support with the lower rail, and - an upper hook assembly arranged to cooperate by pinching with the upper profile, the upper hook assembly comprising a movable hook capable of moving in translation along the rear rail under the action of adjustment means for the support of the mobile hook on the upper profile and for the adjustment of the rear rail relative to the building in a direction parallel to the rear rail, the upper hook assembly comprising a locking element capable of being mobile in translation along the rear rail under the action of locking means for support under the upper profile.

[0008] The lower support being received in the lower channel, during the various stages of fixing the panel to the building, the weight of the panel is supported by the lower rail, which facilitates adjustment operations, for example alignment of the panel, and fixing on the upper rail.

[0009] Thanks to the upper hook assembly which includes a movable hook and a locking element which are able to move in translation along the rear rail, when the panel is mounted on the building, the movable hook and the locking element pinch the upper profile of the upper rail, the panel being securely fixed to the building.

[0010] With the upper profile sandwiched between the movable hook and the locking element and the lower support received in the lower channel, the panel is securely fixed to the building even in the event of severe weather, for example in the event of strong winds, shearing winds and / or unusual climatic loads.

[0011] With the rear rail adjusted relative to the building, it is understood that the adjustment allows the panel on which the rear is fixed to be aligned.

[0012] The lower base supports the lower profile. It is understood that one end of the lower profile is connected to the lower base and that a second end of the lower profile, opposite the first end, is a free end. The lower rail may be made in one piece, that is to say, the lower profile is not fixed to the lower base by fastening means.

[0013] The upper base supports the upper profile. It is understood that one end of the upper profile is connected to the upper base and that a second end of the upper profile, opposite the first end, is a free end. The upper rail may be made in one piece, that is to say, the upper profile is not fixed to the upper base by fastening means.

[0014] In some embodiments, the lower rail and the upper rail are identical.

[0015] This reduces the number of different elements in the structure and helps to avoid errors during assembly, for example fixing the lower rail above the upper rail.

[0016] In some embodiments, the lower rail is different from the upper rail.

[0017] In some embodiments, the movable hook is configured to be received in the rear rail and to slide along the rear rail.

[0018] In some embodiments, the rear rail includes a guide channel.

[0019] The rear rail may include a guide channel, part of the movable hook being received in the rear rail guide channel.

[0020] The guide channel is intended to be disposed towards the building.

[0021] The rear rail extends in a longitudinal direction and the guide channel is a longitudinal guide channel.

[0022] In some embodiments, the movable hook includes guide tabs for the movable hook in the rear rail.

[0023] The guide legs of the movable hook can be received in the guide channel.

[0024] In some embodiments, the locking element includes guide tabs for the locking element in the rear rail.

[0025] The guide lugs of the locking element can be received in the guide channel.

[0026] In some embodiments, the adjustment means include a worm screw adapted to cooperate with a thread of the movable hook.

[0027] The adjustment means allow precise adjustment of the panel relative to the building and secure fixing of the panel to the building.

[0028] In some embodiments, the locking means include a worm screw adapted to cooperate with a thread of the locking element.

[0029] The locking means allow the panel to be securely fixed to the building.

[0030] In some embodiments, the structure includes two rear rails.

[0031] The fixing of the panel to the building is more reliable and the alignment of the panel is more precise.

[0032] In some embodiments, the structure includes at least two rear rails.

[0033] Depending on the size of the panel to be fixed to the building, the structure may include more than two rear rails.

[0034] In certain embodiments, the upper hook assembly includes a locking hook arranged to cooperate with the upper profile and a locking guide for the locking hook, the locking hook being able to be mobile in rotation and / or translation relative to the movable hook, under the action of the adjustment means, the locking guide being configured to cooperate with the movable hook to guide the locking hook between a locking configuration and a release configuration of the upper profile and vice versa.

[0035] In some embodiments, the locking hook includes a housing for receiving a return element of the locking hook towards the release configuration.

[0036] In some embodiments, the locking guide includes a guide light for a first axis carried by the locking hook and a guide cam surface for a second axis carried by the locking hook.

[0037] In some embodiments, the locking guide includes a first guide light for a first axis carried by the locking hook and a second guide light for a second axis carried by the locking hook.

[0038] In some embodiments, the locking hook includes a groove adapted to cooperate with an upper beak of the upper profile in the locking configuration.

[0039] It is understood that the upper spout is located at the free end of the upper profile and is oriented towards the upper base, i.e. towards the upper chute.

[0040] In some embodiments, the structure includes a clamping wedge for the lower support in the rear rail and means for clamping the clamping wedge and the lower support.

[0041] In some embodiments, the clamping wedge is configured to be received in the rear rail and slide along the rear rail.

[0042] The rear rail may include a guide channel, a portion of the clamping wedge being received in the guide channel of the rear rail.

[0043] The rear rail extends in a longitudinal direction and the guide channel is a longitudinal guide channel.

[0044] In some embodiments, the clamping wedge includes guide tabs for the clamping wedge in the rear rail.

[0045] The guide lugs of the clamping wedge can be received in the guide channel.

[0046] In some embodiments, the lower support is configured to be positioned above the clamping corner.

[0047] In some embodiments, the lower support is configured to be positioned below the clamping corner.

[0048] In some embodiments, the structure includes an adhesive film for assembling the rear rail onto the panel.

[0049] The adhesive film allows the rear rail to be assembled onto the panel, in particular on a rear face of the panel.

[0050] In some embodiments, the rear rail includes a channel for receiving the adhesive film.

[0051] The receiving channel is arranged on one face of the rear rail, opposite the face on which the guide channel is arranged.

[0052] The receiving channel allows for more precise positioning of the adhesive film on the rear rail.

[0053] The receiving channel is intended to be disposed towards the panel.

[0054] The rear rail extends in a longitudinal direction and the receiving channel is a longitudinal receiving channel.

[0055] In some embodiments, the rear rail includes two receiving channels.

[0056] In some embodiments, the structure includes a lower safety hook comprising a lower fixing tab configured to be fixed to the rear rail and a lower receiving tab of a lower edge of the panel.

[0057] The lower safety hook ensures, in particular in the event of failure of the adhesive film, that the panel cannot fall.

[0058] In some embodiments, the lower fixing tab is configured to be fixed by screws and / or rivets.

[0059] In some embodiments, the lower receiving leg has a general "L" shape.

[0060] In some embodiments, the structure includes two lower safety hooks.

[0061] In some embodiments, the structure includes a top safety hook comprising a top fixing tab configured to be fixed to the rear rail and a top receiving tab from a top edge of the panel.

[0062] The upper safety hook ensures, in particular in the event of failure of the adhesive film, that the panel cannot fall.

[0063] In some embodiments, the upper fixing tab is configured to be fixed by screws and / or rivets.

[0064] In some embodiments, the upper fixing tab is configured to be fixed by gluing the upper safety hook onto the rear rail.

[0065] In some embodiments, the upper receiving lug has a general "L" shape.

[0066] In some embodiments, the upper fixing tab is fixed in the receiving channel.

[0067] In some embodiments, the lower fixing tab is fixed in the receiving channel.

[0068] The present disclosure also relates to the cladding of a building, for example a facade of the building, comprising a plurality of panels fixed to the building by means of a structure as defined above.

[0069] The present disclosure also relates to a method of fixing a panel to a building, for example a building facade, using the structure as defined above, the method comprising the following steps: - fixing the lower rail and the upper rail to the building, the lower rail being parallel to the upper rail; - fixing the rear rail to the panel; - positioning of the lower support in the lower channel; - positioning of the movable hook on the upper profile and adjustment of the panel relative to the building under the action of the adjustment means; - positioning of the locking element under the upper profile under the action of the locking means.

[0070] It is understood that when the panel is fixed, the majority of the panel's weight rests on the upper rail via the upper hook assembly. The lower support is partially received in the lower channel and cooperates in bearing against the lower rail to prevent the panel from tilting and / or detaching from the lower rail and / or noise due to vibrations of the panel against the lower rail.

[0071] In some embodiments, at least two rear rails are fixed to the panel.

[0072] The rear rails are fixed parallel to each other.

[0073] In some embodiments, the rear rail is fixed to the panel by gluing, for example by means of an adhesive film.

[0074] In some embodiments, the method includes a step of positioning the lower support on the rear rail.

[0075] In some embodiments, the step of positioning the lower support on the rear rail includes a sub-step of positioning the clamping wedge in the rear rail and a sub-step of clamping the clamping wedge and the lower support under the action of the clamping means.

[0076] In some embodiments, the method includes a step of switching the locking hook from the release configuration to the locking configuration under the action of the adjustment means.

[0077] In some embodiments, the method includes a step of fixing, for example by screwing, the lower fixing tab onto the rear rail.

[0078] In some embodiments, the method includes a step of fixing, for example by screwing, the upper fixing tab onto the rear rail.

[0079] In some embodiments, the method includes a step of inserting the adhesive film into the receiving channel of the rear rail. Brief description of the drawings

[0080] Other features and advantages of the subject matter of this presentation will become apparent from the following description of embodiments, given by way of non-limiting examples, with reference to the attached figures.

[0081] [Fig-1] Fig. 1 is a partial schematic perspective view of a casing of a building, for example a facade of the building.

[0082] [Fig.2] The [Fig.2] is a schematic profile view of the [Fig.1].

[0083] [Fig. 3] Fig. 3 is a schematic perspective view of an upper rail and / or lower according to one embodiment.

[0084] [Fig.4] The [Fig.4] is a schematic perspective view of a rear rail according to one embodiment.

[0085] [Fig.5] The [Fig.5] is a schematic cross-sectional view of the rear rail of the [Fig.4] according to a first embodiment.

[0086] [Fig.6] The [Fig.6] is a schematic cross-sectional view of the rear rail of the [Fig.4] according to a second embodiment.

[0087] [Fig.7] The [Fig.7] is a schematic perspective view of a lower support according to a first embodiment.

[0088] [Fig.8] The [Fig.8] is a schematic perspective view of a lower support according to a second embodiment.

[0089] [Fig.9] The [Fig.9] is a schematic perspective view of a clamping wedge according to one embodiment.

[0090] [Fig. 10] The [Fig. 10] is a schematic exploded perspective view of the lower support of the [Fig.7] and the clamping wedge of the [Fig.9].

[0091] [Fig. 11] The [Fig. 11] is a schematic perspective view of the lower support of the [Fig.7] and the clamping wedge of the [Fig.9] assembled.

[0092] [Fig. 12] The [Fig. 12] is a schematic perspective view of the lower support of the [Fig.8] and the clamping wedge of the [Fig.9] assembled.

[0093] [Fig. 13] The [Fig. 13] is a schematic perspective view of a movable hook according to a first embodiment.

[0094] [Fig. 14] The [Fig. 14] is a schematic perspective view of a locking element according to one embodiment.

[0095] [Fig. 15] The [Fig. 15] is a schematic perspective view of an upper hook assembly according to a first embodiment.

[0096] [Fig. 16] The [Fig. 16] is a schematic perspective view of a movable hook according to a second embodiment.

[0097] [Fig. 17] The [Fig. 17] is a schematic perspective view of a locking hook according to a first embodiment.

[0098] [Fig. 18] The [Fig. 18] is a schematic perspective view of a locking guide according to a first embodiment.

[0099] [Fig. 19] The [Fig. 19] is a schematic perspective view of an upper hook assembly according to a second embodiment.

[0100] [Fig.20] The [Fig.20] is a schematic cross-sectional view along the cutting plane XX of the [Fig. 19],

[0101] [Fig.21] The [Fig.21] is a schematic perspective view of an upper hook assembly according to a third embodiment.

[0102] [Fig.22] The [Fig.22] is a schematic exploded perspective view of the [Fig.21].

[0103] [Fig.23] Fig.23 is a schematic perspective view of a lower hook of safety according to a first embodiment.

[0104] [Fig.24] The [Fig.24] is a schematic perspective view of a top safety hook according to a first embodiment.

[0105] [Fig.25] The [Fig.25] is a schematic perspective view of a lower and / or upper safety hook according to a second embodiment.

[0106] [Fig.26] The [Fig.26] is a schematic profile view of the lower support and lower rail when the panel is fixed to the building.

[0107] [Fig.27] The [Fig.27] is a flowchart representing the steps of a process for fixing the panel to the building.

[0108] Across all figures, common elements are identified by identical numerical references. Detailed description

[0109] In what follows, the elements common to the different embodiments are identified by the same numerical references.

[0110] The expressions "above" and "below" are generally used with reference to the direction of gravity, corresponding to a vertical direction.

[0111] The [Fig. 1] is a partial schematic perspective view of a cladding of a building 14, for example a facade of the building 14, comprising a plurality of panels 12 fixed to the building 14 by means of a structure 10. In particular, two panels 12 are shown fixed to the building 14 one above the other.

[0112] Panels 12 are, for example, photovoltaic panels.

[0113] [Fig.2] is a schematic profile view of [Fig. 1].

[0114] As shown in [Fig. 2], the structure 10 comprises a lower rail 16 and an upper rail 18 mounted parallel to each other on the building 14. The lower rail 16 and the upper rail 18 define a transverse direction. The lower rail 16 and the upper rail 18 therefore extend along the transverse direction.

[0115] The structure 10 also includes a rear rail 20 fixed to the panel 12. The rear rail 20 defines a longitudinal direction. The rear rail 20 therefore extends along The longitudinal direction. The longitudinal direction is generally parallel to the direction of gravity, that is, parallel to the vertical direction.

[0116] In the embodiment of [Fig. 1], the structure is represented with a single back rail 20. When the transverse dimension of the panel 12 is larger, the structure 10 can comprise a plurality of back rails 20, i.e. at least two back rails 20, for example two back rails 20.

[0117] The rear rail 20 is removably fixed to the lower rail 16 and to the upper rail 18, i.e. the rear rail 20 and the panel 12 on which it is fixed can be fixed to the lower rail 16 and to the upper rail 18 and the rear rail 20 and the panel 12 can be removed from the lower rail 16 and the upper rail 18, for example to replace a panel 12.

[0118] The structure 10 includes a lower support 22 received in the lower rail 16 and cooperating in support with the lower rail 16.

[0119] The structure 10 includes an upper hook assembly 24 which cooperates by pinching with the upper rail 18.

[0120] The [Fig.3] is a schematic perspective view of a lower rail 16 and / or an upper rail 18.

[0121] The lower rail 16 includes a lower base 16A carrying a lower profile 16B. The lower profile 16B has a general "L" shape and forms with the lower base 16A a lower channel 16C.

[0122] The lower base 16A supports the lower profile 16B. It is understood that one end of the lower profile 16B is connected to the lower base 16A and that a second end of the lower profile 16B, opposite the first end, is a free end. The lower rail 16 may be made in one piece, i.e., the lower profile 16B is not fixed to the lower base 16A by fastening means. The free end of the lower profile 16B includes a lower beak 16D which is oriented towards the lower base 16A, i.e., towards the lower channel 16C.

[0123] The upper rail 18 comprises an upper base 18A carrying an upper profile 18B. The upper profile 18B has a general "L" shape and forms with the upper base 18A an upper channel 18C.

[0124] The upper base 18A supports the upper profile 18B. It is understood that one end of the upper profile 18B is connected to the upper base 18A and that a second end of the upper profile 18B, opposite the first end, is a free end. The upper rail 18 may be made in one piece, i.e., the upper profile 18B is not fixed to the upper base 18A by fastening means. The free end of the upper profile 18B includes an upper prong 18D which is oriented towards the upper base 18A, i.e., towards the upper channel 18C.

[0125] In the embodiment of figures 1 and 2, the lower rail 16 is identical to the upper rail 18. This reduces the number of different elements of the structure 10 and avoids errors during assembly, for example fixing the lower rail 16 above the upper rail 18.

[0126] Figure 4 is a schematic perspective view of the rear rail 20 according to one embodiment. The rear rail 20 defines a longitudinal direction. The rear rail 20 therefore extends along the longitudinal direction.

[0127] Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the rear rail 20 of Figure 4 according to a first embodiment. The rear rail 20 comprises a guide channel 20A and two receiving channels 20B. The guide channel 20A is intended to be positioned towards the building 14. The receiving channels 20B are intended to be positioned on one face of the rear rail 20, opposite the face on which the guide channel 20A is positioned. The receiving channels 20B are positioned towards the panel 12. The guide channel 20A and the receiving channels 20B extend in the longitudinal direction.

[0128] Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the rear rail 20 of Figure 4 according to a second embodiment. The rear rail 20 of embodiment 6 differs from the rear rail 20 of embodiment 5 in that the rear rail 20 of embodiment 6 is devoid of receiving channels 20B.

[0129] The [Fig.7] is a schematic perspective view of the lower support 22 according to a first embodiment.

[0130] The [Fig.8] is a schematic perspective view of the lower support 22 according to a second embodiment.

[0131] In embodiments of Figures 7 and 8, the lower support 22 includes an insertion tab 22A and a clamping tab 22B. The clamping tab of the lower support 22 includes a threaded hole 22D and a cam surface 22E. The insertion tab 22A has a support rib 22C.

[0132] Figure 9 is a schematic perspective view of a clamping wedge 38 according to one embodiment. The clamping wedge 38 comprises guide lugs 38A, a threaded hole 38B, and a cam surface 38C. The threaded hole 38B has a substantially oval cross-section, viewed from above, to allow translation of the clamping wedge 38 relative to the lower support 22.

[0133] The [Fig. 10] is a schematic exploded perspective view of the lower support 22 of the embodiment of the [Fig.7] and of the clamping wedge 38.

[0134] In the embodiment of [Fig. 10], the lower support 22 is arranged above the clamping wedge 38. The lower support 22 and the clamping wedge 38 cooperate with each other by sliding the cam surface 22E of the lower support 22 with the cam surface 38C of the clamping wedge 38. The lower support 22 and the wedge clamping means 38 are assembled by clamping by clamping means 40 of the lower support 22 on the clamping corner 38.

[0135] The clamping means 40 are, for example, a threaded screw. A washer 48 can be positioned between the head of the threaded screw and the clamping wedge 38.

[0136] Fig. 11 is a schematic perspective view of the assembled elements of Fig. 10. The guide tabs 38A of the clamping wedge 38 are configured to be received in the guide channel 20A of the rear rail 20 and to slide in the guide channel 20A of the rear rail 20.

[0137] The [Fig. 12] is a schematic perspective view of the lower support 22 of the embodiment of the [Fig.8] and the clamping wedge 38 assembled.

[0138] The embodiment of [Fig. 12] differs from the embodiment of [Fig. 12] in that the lower support 22 is arranged below the clamping wedge 38. The lower support 22 and the clamping wedge 38 cooperate with each other by sliding the cam surface 22E of the lower support 22 with the cam surface 38C of the clamping wedge 38. The lower support 22 and the clamping wedge 38 are assembled by clamping the lower support 22 onto the clamping wedge 38 using clamping means 40.

[0139] The [Fig. 13] is a schematic perspective view of a movable hook 26 according to a first embodiment.

[0140] In the embodiment of [Fig. 13], the movable hook 26 comprises two guide lugs 26A, a threaded hole 26B, a guide hole 26C, a bearing surface 26D and a locking lug 26G. The guide hole 26C of the movable hook 26 has a diameter greater than the diameter of the threaded hole 26B of the movable hook 26 and the guide hole 26C is unthreaded.

[0141] Figure 14 is a schematic perspective view of a locking element 28 according to one embodiment. The locking element 28 comprises two guide lugs 28A, a threaded hole 28B, a guide hole 28C, and a bearing surface 28D. The guide hole 28C of the locking element 28 has a diameter larger than the diameter of the threaded hole 28B of the locking element 28, and the guide hole 28C is unthreaded.

[0142] The [Fig. 15] is a schematic perspective view of an upper hook assembly 24 according to a first embodiment.

[0143] In the embodiment of [Fig. 15], the upper hook assembly 24 includes the movable hook 26 of the embodiment of [Fig. 13] and the locking element 28.

[0144] As shown in [Fig. 15], the movable hook 26 bears against the upper profile 18B, in particular the bearing surface 26D of the movable hook 26, and the locking element 28 bears below the upper profile 18B, in particular the bearing surface 28D of the locking element, so that the upper rail 18, in in particular the upper profile 18B of the upper rail 18 is pinched or sandwiched between the movable hook 26 and the locking element 28. The upper profile 18B is also blocked in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the panel 12 by the locking tab 26G of the movable hook 26.

[0145] In the embodiment of [Fig. 15], the structure 10 includes adjustment means and locking means.

[0146] The adjustment means include a worm screw 50 which cooperates with the threaded orifice 26B of the movable hook 26, i.e. with a thread of the movable hook 26.

[0147] The locking means include a worm screw 50 which cooperates with the threaded hole 28B of the locking element 28, i.e. with a thread of the locking element 28.

[0148] The worm screw 50 of the adjustment means passes through the locking element 28 by way of the guide hole 28A of the locking element 28. The threaded hole 26B of the movable hook 26 and the guide hole 28A of the locking element 28 are aligned in the longitudinal direction. The worm screw 50 of the adjustment means allows the movable hook 26 to be moved translationally along the rear rail 20 without moving the locking element 28.

[0149] The worm screw 50 of the locking means passes through the movable hook 26 by way of the guide hole 26A of the movable hook 26. The threaded hole 28B of the locking element 28 and the guide hole 26A of the movable hook 26 are aligned in the longitudinal direction. The worm screw 50 of the locking means allows the locking element 28 to be moved translationally along the rear rail 20 without moving the movable hook 26.

[0150] In the embodiment of [Fig. 15], each worm screw 50 is attached to a cap 52 configured to rotate the worm screw about its axis. The caps 52 are received in a cap guide 54. By way of non-limiting example, the cap 52 may include a nut-shaped portion. The guide 54 is fixed to the upper rail 18, for example by screws, and allows the caps 52 and the worm screws 50 to be held in place.

[0151] The [Fig. 16] is a schematic perspective view of a movable hook 26 according to a second embodiment.

[0152] In the embodiment of [Fig. 16], the movable hook 26 comprises two guide lugs 26A, a threaded hole 26B, a guide hole 26C, a bearing surface 26D, two arms 26E forming a clevis, and a locking lug 26G. The guide hole 26C of the movable hook 26 has a diameter larger than the diameter of the threaded hole 26B of the movable hook 26, and the guide hole 26C is unthreaded. Each arm 26E comprises a receiving hole 26F.

[0153] The [Fig. 17] is a schematic perspective view of a locking hook 30 according to a first embodiment.

[0154] In the embodiment of [Fig. 17], the locking hook 30 comprises a groove 30A, a first receiving hole 30B, a second receiving hole 30C, and a receiving recess 30D. The upper hook assembly 24 includes a return element 56 (shown in [Fig. 22]) received in the receiving recess 30D. The return element 56 returns the locking hook 30 to the release configuration.

[0155] The [Fig. 18] is a schematic perspective view of a locking guide 32 according to a first embodiment.

[0156] In the embodiment of [Fig. 18], the locking guide 32 includes a guide light 32A and a cam surface 32B.

[0157] The [Fig. 19] is a schematic perspective view of an upper hook assembly 24 according to a second embodiment.

[0158] Fig. 20 is a schematic cross-sectional view along the cutting plane XX of Fig. 19.

[0159] In the embodiment of Figures 19 and 20, the upper hook assembly 24 comprises the movable hook 26 of the embodiment of [Fig. 16], the locking hook 17 and two locking guides 32. The locking hook 17 is sandwiched between the two locking guides 32. The locking hook 17 and the two locking guides 32 are received between the two arms 26E of the movable hook 26.

[0160] In the embodiment of figures 19 and 20, a first shaft 34 is received in the first receiving orifice 30B of the locking hook 30 and the ends of the first shaft 34 slide along the cam surface 32B of the locking guides 32.

[0161] In the embodiment of figures 19 and 20, a second axis 36 is received in the second receiving orifice 30C of the locking hook 30, in the guide light 32A of each locking guide 32 and in the receiving orifice 26F of each arm 26E of the movable hook 26.

[0162] In the embodiment of figures 19 and 20, the structure 10 includes adjustment means and locking means.

[0163] The adjustment means include a worm screw 50 which cooperates with the threaded orifice 26B of the movable hook 26, i.e. with a thread of the movable hook 26.

[0164] The locking means include a worm screw 50 which cooperates with the threaded hole 28B of the locking element 28, i.e. with a thread of the locking element 28.

[0165] The worm screw 50 of the adjustment means passes through the locking element 28 by way of the guide hole 28A of the locking element 28. The threaded hole 26B of the movable hook 26 and the guide hole 28A of the locking element 28 are aligned in the longitudinal direction. The worm screw 50 of the adjustment means allows the movable hook 26 to be moved translationally along the rear rail 20 without moving the locking element 28. The worm screw 50 of the adjustment means allows the locking hook 30 to be guided between a locking configuration and a release configuration of the upper profile 18B and vice versa without moving the locking element 28. In the locking configuration, the groove 30A of the locking hook 30 cooperates with the upper beak 18D of the upper rail 18.

[0166] The worm screw 50 of the locking means passes through the movable hook 26 by way of the guide hole 26A of the movable hook 26. The threaded hole 28B of the locking element 28 and the guide hole 26A of the movable hook 26 are aligned in the longitudinal direction. The worm screw 50 of the locking means allows the locking element 28 to be moved translationally along the rear rail 20 without moving the movable hook 26.

[0167] In the embodiment shown in Figures 19 and 20, each worm gear 50 is attached to a cap 52 configured to rotate the worm gear about its axis. The caps 52 are received in a cap guide 54. By way of non-limiting example, the cap may include a nut-shaped portion.

[0168] The [Fig.21] is a schematic perspective view of an upper hook assembly 24 according to a third embodiment.

[0169] Fig. 22 is a schematic exploded perspective view of Fig. 21.

[0170] The embodiment of Figures 21 and 22 is similar to the embodiment of Figures 19 and 20. It differs mainly in that the locking guides 32 include a second guide light 32C instead of the cam surface 32B of the embodiment of [Fig. 18], the second axis 36 being received in the second guide lights 32C.

[0171] The [Fig.23] is a schematic perspective view of a lower safety hook 44 according to a first embodiment.

[0172] In the embodiment of [Fig. 23], the lower safety hook 44 comprises a lower fixing lug 44A and a lower receiving lug 44B. The lower fixing lug 44A comprises two holes 44C for fixing the lower safety hook 44 to the rear rail 20. The lower receiving lug 44B has a general "L" shape and is configured to receive a lower edge of the panel 12, as shown in Figures 1 and 2.

[0173] The embodiment of [Fig. 23] of the lower safety hook 44 is preferably used with the rear rail 20 of the embodiment of [Fig. 5]. The lower fixing tab 44A is fixed in the receiving channel 20B of the rear rail 20.

[0174] The structure 10 may include, for each rear rail 20, two lower safety hooks 44, each lower safety hook 44 being received in a receiving channel 20B of the rear rail 20, as illustrated in [Fig. 1]. The structure may also include, for each rear rail 20, a single lower safety hook 44 received in one of the receiving channels 20B of the rear rail 20.

[0175] The [Fig.24] is a schematic perspective view of an upper safety hook 46 according to a first embodiment.

[0176] In the embodiment of [Fig. 24], the upper safety hook 46 comprises an upper fixing tab 46A and an upper receiving tab 46B. The upper receiving tab 46B has a general "L" shape and is configured to receive an upper edge of the panel 12, as shown in Figures 1 and 2.

[0177] The embodiment of [Fig. 24] of the upper safety hook is used with the rear rail 20 of the embodiment of [Fig. 5]. The upper fixing tab 46A is fixed in the receiving channel 20B of the rear rail 20, for example by means of an adhesive film used for bonding the rear rail 20 to the panel 12.

[0178] The [Fig.25] is a schematic perspective view of a lower and / or upper safety hook 44, 46 according to a second embodiment.

[0179] In the embodiment of [Fig.25], the upper fixing bracket 46A includes two holes 44C for fixing the upper safety hook 46 to the rear rail 20.

[0180] The embodiment of [Fig. 25] of the lower and / or upper safety hook 44, 46 is preferably used with the rear rail 20 of the embodiment of [Fig. 6]. The lower and / or upper fixing tabs 46A, 46B are fixed to the sides of the rear rail 20.

[0181] Fig. 26 is a schematic profile view of the lower support 22 and the lower rail 16 when the panel 12 is fixed to the building 14. As can be seen, the lower support 22 does not rest on the bottom of the lower channel 16C and cooperates by bearing with the lower rail 16. In particular, the insertion tab 22A and the support rib 22C cooperate by bearing with the lower profile 16B and the lower base 16A so that most of the weight of the panel 12 rests on the upper rail 18 via the upper hook assembly 24, the lower support 22 being partially received in the lower channel 16C.

[0182] When the structure comprises several rear rails 20 fixed to a panel 12, the upper hook assembly 24 can be identical on each rear rail 20. Alternatively, the upper hook assemblies 24 of the different embodiments can be combined. Similarly, the lower support 22 can be identical on each rear rail. 20. Alternatively, the lower supports 22 of the different embodiments can be combined. The same applies to the lower safety hooks 44 and the upper safety hooks 46.

[0183] The [Fig.27] is a flowchart representing the steps of a process 100 for fixing the panel 12 onto the building 14.

[0184] The method 100 includes a step of fixing the lower rail 16 and the upper rail 18 on the building 14, the lower rail 16 being parallel to the upper rail 18. It is understood that during this step, a plurality of lower and upper rails are fixed on the building.

[0185] The method includes a step 104 of attaching the rear rail 20 to the panel 12. The rear rail 20 can be attached to the panel 12 by bonding, for example, using an adhesive film. The attachment step 104 may include attaching two rear rails 20 to the panel 12. The panel 12 can be attached to at least two rear rails 20.

[0186] The adhesive film can be placed in each receiving channel 20B of the rear rail 20.

[0187] The structure 10 may also include two joints arranged between the rear rail 20 and the panel 12.

[0188] The fixing step 104 of the rear rail 20 on the panel 12 may include a positioning step of the lower support 22 on the rear rail 20.

[0189] The positioning step of the lower support 22 on the rear rail 20 can include a sub-step of positioning the clamping wedge 38 in the rear rail 20 and a sub-step of clamping the clamping wedge 38 and the lower support 22 under the action of the clamping means 40.

[0190] According to one embodiment, the lower support 22 and the clamping wedge 38 are assembled by clamping means 40. The guide tabs 38A of the clamping wedge 38 are inserted into the guide channel 20A of the rear rail. The clamping wedge 38 is positioned at the desired position on the rear rail 20 and, under the action of the clamping means, the clamping wedge 38 and the lower support 22 are brought closer together, the cam surface 22E of the lower support 22 sliding on the cam surface of the clamping wedge so that the clamping wedge 38 and thus the lower support 22 are fixed relative to the rear rail 20.

[0191] The fixing step 104 of the rear rail 20 on the panel 12 may include an assembly step of the upper hook assembly 24 on the rear rail 20. In particular, the guide tabs 26A of the movable hook 26 are inserted into the guide channel 20A of the rear rail 20 and the guide tabs 28A of the locking element 28 are inserted into the guide channel 20A of the rear rail 20.

[0192] The fixing step 104 of the rear rail 20 on the panel 12 may include a fixing step of the lower safety hook 44 on the rear rail 20.

[0193] The step of fixing the rear rail 20 to the panel 12 104 may include a step of fixing the upper safety hook 46 to the rear rail 20.

[0194] The step of fixing the rear rail 20 to the panel 12 104 can be carried out before or at the same time as the step of fixing the lower rail 16 and the upper rail 18 to the building 14 102. Some steps / substeps of the step of fixing the rear rail 20 to the panel 12 104 can be carried out before the step of fixing the lower rail 16 and the upper rail 18 to the building 14 102 and other steps / substeps of the step of fixing the rear rail 20 to the panel 12 104 can be carried out after the step of fixing the lower rail 16 and the upper rail 18 to the building 14 102.

[0195] The method 100 includes a positioning step 106 of the lower support 22 in the lower channel 16C so that the weight of the panel 12 rests on the lower rail 16. During this step, an adjustment of the alignment of the panel in the transverse direction is carried out by translation of the rear rail 20 along the lower rail 16 and the upper rail 18.

[0196] The method 100 includes a positioning step 108 of the movable hook 26 on the upper profile 18B and of adjusting the panel 12 relative to the building 14 under the action of the adjustment means.

[0197] By turning the worm screw 50 of the adjustment means, the movable hook 26 is moved in translation along the longitudinal direction, i.e. along the rear rail 20, until it comes to rest on the upper profile 18, in particular the free end of the upper profile 18. The worm screw 50 of the adjustment means can be turned further to adjust the height of the panel 12 relative to the building 14, for example relative to other panels 12 already installed.

[0198] When the panel 12 is in the desired position, the method includes a step of positioning the locking element 28 under the upper profile 18B by means of the locking means. By turning the worm screw 50 of the locking means, the locking element 28 is moved translationally in the longitudinal direction, i.e., along the rear rail 20, until it comes to rest under the upper profile 18.

[0199] The upper profile 18B is therefore pinched between the movable hook 26 and the locking element 28.

[0200] When the upper hook assembly 24 includes a locking hook 30, the method 100 may include a step of changing the locking hook 30 from the release configuration to the locking configuration under the action of the means adjustment. Once the movable hook 26 is stopped against the upper profile 18B, the rotation of the worm screw 50 of the adjustment means allows the locking hook 30 to move from the release configuration to the locking configuration, the groove 30A of the locking hook 30 cooperating with the upper beak 18D of the upper rail 18. Once the locking hook 30 is in the locking configuration, the rotation of the worm screw 50 of the adjustment means allows the positioning of the panel 12 to be adjusted.

[0201] To dismantle a panel 12, the order of steps is reversed.

[0202] Although the present description has been made with reference to a specific embodiment, it is evident that various modifications and changes can be made to these examples without departing from the general scope of the invention as defined by the claims. Furthermore, individual features of the various embodiments mentioned can be combined in additional embodiments. Therefore, the description and drawings should be considered in an illustrative rather than restrictive sense.

Claims

Demands

1. Structure (10) for fixing a panel (12) to a building (14), the structure (10) comprising: - a lower rail (16) and an upper rail (18) intended to be mounted parallel to each other on the building (14), the lower rail (16) having a lower base (16A) carrying a lower profile (16B) generally L-shaped forming a lower channel (16C), and the upper rail (18) having an upper base (18A) carrying an upper profile (18B) generally L-shaped forming an upper channel (18C), - a rear rail (20) intended to be fixed to the panel (12) and to be removably fixed to the lower rail (16) and the upper rail (18), the rear rail (20) being able to move in translation along the lower rail (16) and the upper rail (18), - a lower support (22) configured to be received in the channel lower (16C) and to cooperate in support with the lower rail (16),and - an upper hook assembly (24) arranged to cooperate by pinching with the upper profile (18B), the upper hook assembly (24) comprising a movable hook (26) capable of being movable in translation along the rear rail (20) under the action of adjustment means for bearing the movable hook (26) on the upper profile (18B) and for adjusting the rear rail (20) relative to the building (14) in a direction parallel to the rear rail (20), the upper hook assembly (24) comprising a locking element (28) capable of being movable in translation along the rear rail (20) under the action of locking means for bearing under the upper profile (18B).

2. Structure (10) according to claim 1, wherein the upper hook assembly (24) comprises a locking hook (30) arranged to cooperate with the upper profile (18B) and a locking guide (32) for the locking hook (30), the locking hook (30) being able to be movable in rotation and / or translation relative to the movable hook (26), under the action of the adjustment means, the locking guide (32) being configured to cooperate with the movable hook (26) to guide the locking hook (30) between a locking configuration and a release configuration of the upper profile (18B) and vice versa.

3. Structure (10) according to claim 2, wherein the locking guide (32) comprises a guide light (32A) of a first axis (34) carried by the locking hook (30) and a guide cam surface (32B) of a second axis (36) carried by the locking hook (30).

4. Structure (10) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the locking hook (30) includes a groove (30A) adapted to cooperate with an upper beak (18D) of the upper profile (18B) in the locking configuration.

5. Structure (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising a clamping wedge (38) of the lower support (22) in the rear rail (18B) and clamping means (40) of the clamping wedge (38) and the lower support (22).

6. Structure (10) according to claim 5, wherein the lower support (22) is configured to be disposed above the clamping corner (38).

7. Structure (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising an adhesive film for assembling the rear rail (18B) onto the panel (12).

8. Structure (10) according to claim 7, wherein the rear rail (20) includes a receiving channel (20B) for the adhesive film.

9. Structure (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising a lower safety hook (44) including a lower fixing tab (44A) configured to be fixed to the rear rail (20) and a lower receiving tab (44B) of a lower edge of the panel.

10. Structure (10) according to claims 8 and 9, wherein the lower fixing tab (44A) is fixed in the receiving channel (20B).

11. Structure (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, comprising a top safety hook (46) including a top fixing tab (46A) configured to be fixed to the rear rail (20) and a top receiving tab (46B) of a top edge of the panel.

12. Structure (10) according to claims 8 and 11, wherein the upper fixing tab (46B) is fixed in the receiving channel (20B).

13. Cladding of a building (14) comprising a plurality of panels (12) fixed to the building by means of the structure (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. A method (100) for fixing a panel (12) to a building (14) by means of the structure (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, the method (100) comprising the following steps: - fixing (102) the lower rail (16) and the upper rail (18) to the building (14), the lower rail (16) being parallel to the upper rail (18); - fixing (104) the rear rail (20) to the panel (12); - positioning (106) the lower support (22) in the lower channel (16C); - positioning (108) the movable hook (26) on the upper profile (18B) and adjusting the panel (12) relative to the building (14) by means of the adjustment means; - positioning (110) the locking element (28) under the upper profile (18B) by means of the locking means.

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